Author Archives: Monica Lichti

2025 05 11 worship service and announcements

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
May 11, 2025–Fourth Sunday of Easter

Our faith in a God of love leads us, by the power of the Spirit,
to follow Jesus in doing justice, loving mercy,
and walking humbly with God.

To livestream the worship service:

On Sunday morning, around 9:20 a.m. go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen, which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box below that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. Anytime after the service concludes, you can watch a recording of the service at your convenience by clicking the same green LIVE STREAM button. Again, you will probably have to go to the gray box that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. That will transfer you to the BCMC YouTube Channel. You will have to click on the tab “Videos” to see all of the BCMC videos. Click the red button to see the bulletin/order of service.
OR – click on this link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/KyjoT6sXbOE?feature=share

Lucy Burch Invitation
We are inviting the BCMC congregation to Lucy Burch’s graduation party on Saturday, May 10, from 12 to 3 p.m. in the BCMC Gathering Place.
– Lucy and family

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
  May 11, 2025
  Fourth Sunday of Easter

Christ Candle Lighting

Centering Music–Guide Me Ever, Great Redeemer (Dale Wood) — Karen Schlabaugh

Welcome–Brad Kohlman

*Hymn–God of Grace and God of Glory–VT 716

Children and Youth Conversation–Nathan & Esther Koontz

Scripture Reading–Acts 9:36-43–Karen Ediger

Sermon–From the Mundane to the Miraculous–Joanna Harader

*Hymn–Healer of Our Every Ill–VT 644

Prayers of God’s People–Brad Kohlman

Welcoming New Members–Elizabeth Schmidt
New Members by Baptism (April 27, 2025): Emma Gering, Maisie Brubacher
                                                                                   Abram Wall
                 Baptism Videos
     Introduction to Church Membership–VT 959
     New Members by Transfer: Lorin and Karen Neufeld
Membership Covenant Questions
     Welcoming New Members–VT 961

*Hymn–For We Are Strangers No More–VT 409

Sabbatical Blessing for Pastor Nathan–Sondra Koontz and Megan Kohlman

Leader: Nathan, BCMC thanks you for postponing your sabbatical and for calmly guiding us through transitions. We celebrate your leadership, the encouragement and guidance you provide us. And now it is time for a Sabbatical.

Congregation: We acknowledge the unique challenges of pastoral leadership. We send you on this Sabbatical journey, confident that God will bless you, refresh your spirit, and provide you with new vision for our continued ministry. May this Sabbatical be a time of rest and discovery for you.

Leader: We pray that you will enjoy poetry and play, leisurely dreaming and
focused reflection, contemplation and rich conversation at the Holy Wisdom Monastery, and moments of wonder in the Colorado wilderness.

Congregation: We will miss you as we continue our ministry here. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you, that we support you, and that we look forward with joy to your return.

Nathan: I will miss you as well and I will pray for you. I too look forward to returning and sharing again in our ministry. Thank you for creating this opportunity for renewal and rest in my ministry.

*Hymn of Blessing–The Peace of the Earth Be with You–VT 838

*Benediction

Postlude–Postludium (Flor Peeters)– Karen Schlabaugh

*You are invited to stand     VT—Voices Together     Audio visual—Ken Lamp

The Week at BCMC: May 11-18, 2025
Sunday, May 11, 2025: Worship—9:30 a.m.
YouTube Link for the worship service this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/KyjoT6sXbOE?feature=share

4 p.m. Bethel College’s Open Road and Woven Concert in the Sanctuary
6 p.m. Bethel College rehearsal in the Sanctuary

Monday, May 12, 2025
7 p.m.     Dr. Henry Waters’ Hymnology class invites the public to a Hymn Festival in the BCMC Sanctuary
Tuesday, May 13, 2025
7:30 p.m. Finance Committee meeting in Room 14
Wednesday, May 14, 2025
4 p.m.       Witness Commission meeting in Room 14
Sunday, May 18, 2025—Bethel College Baccalaureate
10 a.m. (Note the later time for the beginning of worship)

Upcoming Events at BCMC:
· May 18, 10 a.m.: Bethel College Baccalaureate at BCMC
· May 30, 11 a.m.:   Memorial service for Helen Bargen at BCMC

Women’s Fellowship will meet Tues., May 20, 7 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. All women are invited. The speaker will be Elizabeth Schmidt, BCMC Pastor of Congregational Care, on “Following the Thread. Walton Dairy Farm to BCMC Pastor.”

Anabaptism 500 Worship Celebration.  Bethel College Mennonite Church will host the live-stream of the May 29, 2025 worship service at Mennonite World Conference in Zurich, Switzerland, celebrating the 500th anniversary of Anabaptism. The live-stream begins at 10 a.m. in the BCMC Sanctuary. Join us in lifting glad voices with other Anabaptists around the world in this joyful celebration!

BCMC Offering for May 6: Gen. Fund $8,368; MCC $50; Sr Hi Youth $436; Church Retreat $80; Kitchen Fund $21; Solar Fund $50; Merrill Raber Mem. $50; Louise Thieszen Mem. $75.

BACK OF THE SANCTUARY SUNDAY, MAY 11:
Check out the display on the Oak Flat prayer vigil and letter writing campaign held on Bethel’s campus last Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. using the chimes on the hour to call together prayer circles, many from BCMC. At least 50 people signed on to pray, phone, and write letters. We will update as we learn information on the case.

Congratulations to BCMC Graduates:
· Elizabeth Lamp is graduating from Baker University with a degree in
   Biochemistry. She will be attending Kansas City University College of
   Dental Medicine in the fall.
· John Mark Koontz is graduating from Wichita State University May 17 with a degree in Music and Instrumental Performance on Double Bass.
Newton High School Graduates:
· Lucy Burch, Payne Claassen, Adah Hodge, Ani Koontz, Mara Oswald,
   Christopher Sattler, Lily Schloneger, Abram Wall

Ron Scott, father of Jenni Scott Koontz, passed away on Wednesday, May 7, in Hutchinson after receiving hospice care for the past few weeks. Please keep Jenni, Matt, Caleb, Abby, Naomi and the entire Scott family in your prayers as they grieve his loss.

Abram Wall invitation
We are inviting the BCMC congregation to Abram Wall’s graduation party on Sunday, May 18, from 1:30-3:30 pm at the 1887 Cafe at Bethel
College. – Abram and family

Mara Oswald would like to invite the congregation to her graduation celebration on May 18th from 2-4 p.m. at the KIPCOR building, 2515 College Ave, North Newton.

Forty-one years ago–in spring 1984–leaders of the Western District Mennonite Conference took away John Linscheid’s ministerial credentials because he is gay. In a worship service at 4 p.m. Sunday, May 11, at Peace Mennonite Church in Lawrence, KS, current WDC leaders will apologize for what their predecessors did. You can read more details about this event on the Western District Conference website. Please contact Pastor Joanna if you would like to carpool with others who are attending from Newton.

Bethel College Announcements
· Sun., May 11: Dr. Valerie Mendoza, Kansas City Kansas Community College, “Stories of Mexican Migration to Kansas,” 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum auditorium
· Sun., May 11: Woven and Open Road joint concert, 4 p.m., Bethel College Mennonite Church
· Mon., May 12: Dr. Henry Waters’ Hymnology class invites the public to a Hymn Festival, 7 p.m., Bethel College Mennonite Church. Sing and learn more about a selection of hymns from Voices Together.
· Fri., May 16: Artist reception for Gracie Higgins, April Powls and Lizzie Schmucker and the Senior Art Exhibit, 7-9 p.m., Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Gallery hours are 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Mon.-Fri., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
· Bethel College commencement weekend is Sat.-Sun., May 17-18. Events: Nurse Pinning Ceremony, 2 p.m., May 17, Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center; Baccalaureate, 10 a.m., Bethel College Mennonite Church; Commencement, 4 p.m., May 18, Memorial Hall.
· Bethel College advancement and development staff invite you for coffee and conversation (and some light breakfast snacks) Friday, May 23, 7:30-9 a.m., The Breadbasket, 219 N. Main St., Newton (alumni-owned). Contact: George Leary, gleary@bethelks.edu, 316-284-5226
· SAVE THE DATE: Sunday, June 1: U.S. premiere of the 1874 immigration documentary Where the Cottonwoods Grow, Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center

This semester at Bethel College, Dr. Henry Waters has been teaching a Hymnology class, drawing heavily from Voices Together and using C. Michael Hawn’s “seven streams of hymnody.” The public is invited to the class’s culminating activity, a hymn festival at Bethel College Mennonite Church, Monday, May 12, at 7 p.m. The evening will feature a variety of hymns that class members have chosen from Voices Together to reflect the different streams and what they’ve learned in the class. Come and sing some hymns that will be familiar and some that might be new to you.

You are invited to attend the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Relief Sale Annual Meeting Thurs., May 22, 6 p.m., at Hesston Mennonite Church. The cost for the meal is $20/person and you will pay at the door. Please RSVP to Barb BJ Reeves by May 19, 620-543-6863 or bj.reeves@live.com The meeting to celebrate our successful sale and present MCC with a check will be held after dinner at approximately 7 p.m. A filled sandwich bag of California almonds will be available for $20.

Bel Canto Singers concert – “Singing Through Generations” Hesston College’s Bel Canto Singers will perform in concert Fri., May 16, 7 p.m. at Hesston Mennonite Church. The concert is part of commencement weekend activities at the college and is free and open to the public. Bel Canto will begin a 12-day spring tour in the Pacific Northwest following graduation weekend.

Want to visit someone in prison or be a pen pal? Volunteers with M-2 (Match-2) visit one evening a month with an inmate who gets few outside visits. Apply to be an M-2 volunteer at www.ovmks.org/m2 and plan to attend the next volunteer training on May 19, 12:30-4 p.m. at Hutchinson Correctional Facility (in the Old Schoolhouse, just outside the walls). Pen pals correspond monthly with an incarcerated individual, often sending letters through our office. Contact Kenzie Brister to learn more:
prison@ovmks.org or 316-281-4721.

Kidron Bethel Village is hosting a vintage car show Fri., June 6, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. If you have a vehicle you would like to bring to show, we would love to have you share it! Register your vehicle by contacting Kelli at 316-836-4865 or KelliM@bluestemks.org. No entry fee, judging or prizes; just a rewarding day of sharing your favorite cars, trucks and tractors.

Register today for the Mennonite Central Committee Immigration Learning Tour in South Texas, Oct. 4-9. This immigration-focused learning tour presents a unique opportunity to engage directly with organizations making a positive impact on our neighbors. Find out more at mcc.org/learning-tour-texas.

Destination: Greensboro, NC: Mennonite Church USA conference 2025, July 8-12 If interested in being a delegate, contact any Gifts Discernment Committee (GDC) member: Jeanette Stucky, Jerry Buller, Dick Koontz, Francis Toews or the church office. Delegate sessions will be July 12. GDC reimburses registration fees to delegates.

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

Two people needed to help get the pool ready for swimming! The pool needs to be prepared for a summer of fun swim times. We are looking for two college-age or older volunteers to help on May 12. The work is removing everything that has collected in the bottom of the pool, some cleaning–and tasks Olivia doesn’t remember. The bottom of the pool will be slick and lifting will be required. Please contact Olivia at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290. The pool is needed for summer camps and guest groups!
Other camp news:
A whole universe of thanks to The HUB and everyone who attended the event on May 2!! Thank you for your support and all the fun and music. It was a hoot to see everyone and be part of the fun. The highest bid on the tee shirt quilt/comforter was $500.
Calling all campers! We’re taking “Another Way” and finding transformation in Jesus’ way of living. Summer camps are open for those going into grades 3-12. Scholarships are available and parents volunteering as kitchen helpers can receive a discount up to full camp fees for a camper. Register here! (https://campmennoscah.campbrainregistration.com/) Come build your house on the rock and play in the sand!
Here are your 2025 Summer Staff! In alphabetical order by first name, these are your amazing staffers: Camryn Entz (lifeguard), Caroline Miller (crafts leader), Charlie Major (lifeguard), Daniel Miller (naturalist), Josiah Buller (grounds/maintenance), and the newest first-time staffer, Maddie Tegeler (lifeguard). We ask for prayers and cheers for these generous folks who are giving their summer to long days of faith formation in both camper time and behind-the-scenes work. Hooray!
There are two 20 amp RV hookups and two 30 amp RV hookups available in the south (boys) cabin area on a pole of the gazebo. The hookups/outlets are not spread out. Please communicate with others in your group, if there may be high demand for RV hookups. Camp Mennoscah only has electrical hookups.
Weekly music leaders are needed! If you know of someone who you think might be great as a weekly music leader, please tap them on the shoulder. Olivia would love to talk to them. Contact us at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 316-293-7313 (call or text). Summer staffers must be 18 or older.Camp Mennoscah is busy preparing for summer youth camps and guests. It may take additional time to respond to your email or phone call. We will answer as soon as possible. If a quicker response is needed, please call 316-293-7313.

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
For Mennonite Mission Network “Missio Deo” press here
For Mennonite Men Announcements press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “New and Beyond” press here
For Mennonite Central Committee “In Touch” press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
The countdown is on! Register now for MC USA’s Follow Jesus ’25 biennial convention in Greensboro, North Carolina, July 8-12, 2025! Save $100 by registering before May 31! Register here: mennoniteusa.org/registration/ View the PowerPoint slide here: mennoniteusa.org/countdown-fj25-slide View the PDF here: mennoniteusa.org/countdown-fj25-PDF

Check out the MC USA checklist for youth leaders to help faith formation leaders prepare their youth for Follow Jesus ’25, MC USA’s national convention, here: convention.mennoniteusa.org/the-experience/program-documents/

MC USA is seeking award nominations for its 2025 Bring the Peace initiative. The denomination grants the award to a Legacy Peacemaker and a Young Peacemaker each year. Submit your recommendations for nominees by May 23: mennoniteusa.org/btp-nominations-2025

Menno Snapshots

The Worship Planning Team for Follow Jesus ’25, MC USA’s national convention, shares the benediction litany ahead of convention. Read the full litany here: mennoniteusa.org/spirit-upon-me

Ana Alicia Hinojosa, senior executive for Ventures at Mennonite Mission Network, has fought against the patriarchy and a hyperproductive world to find her rightful place in society, while also finding rest. Her blog is part of MC USA’s “Learn, Pray, Join: Undoing Patriarchy” educational campaign. Read more about Hinojosa’s experiences here: mennoniteusa.org/weight-patriarchy

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network joins First Mennonite Church of San Francisco (California) this year in celebrating its 50th anniversary and its 50th year of hosting a Mennonite Voluntary Service (MVS) unit. Pray for current MVS participants — Conrad Liechty, Ana Esperanza Neufeld Weaver and Sav Roth Walter — as they help the congregation extend its outreach in the city.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC’s new Kids Meet Christ program, supporting congregations to reimagine worship in ways that fully welcome children and create space for them to meet Christ.

Bethel College Mennonite Church is an open and affirming congregation
centered in the life and teachings of Jesus. Embracing the divine within each
person, we warmly welcome any and all into fellowship without regard to race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability,
economic status, marital status, or age.

2025 05 04 worship service

press here for the video

Land Acknowledgement from words by Mark Charles and VT #878
As we do on the first Sunday of each month,
  we acknowledge that we worship
  on the land of the Kanza, Osage, and Wichita.
We thank them for their care and respect for this land
  and acknowledge the injustice of their forced removal.
We ask the Spirit to heal our histories
  and find new paths of right relationships with them
  and all of creation.

GOING BEYOND LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
From the Repair Coalition:
“While the Supreme Court has yet to take any action on the Apache Stronghold case, the federal government on Thursday, April 17, 2025, announced that it plans as early as June 16, 2025 to publish a final environmental impact statement and begin moving forward with the transfer and destruction of Oak Flat. On Friday, April 18, Becket Law filed a letter with the Supreme Court explaining that this makes it even more urgent for the Court to hear the case.
Thanks to the federal government’s haste, Apache Stronghold now has legal standing to request an injunction, a legal order for ‘the courts to stop this move in its tracks and ensure justice can be delivered before Oak Flat is permanently destroyed,’ with the District Court as another avenue in case the Supreme Court decides to not hear Apache Stronghold’s case.”
BCMC Task Group will be organizing a prayer vigil and letter writing campaign next week on behalf of the Apache Stronghold and Oak Flat. Watch for a request for your help! “May we lament all that has been and is destroying life.”

2025 05 04 worship service and announcements

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
May 4, 2025–Third Sunday of Easter

Our faith in a God of love leads us, by the power of the Spirit,
to follow Jesus in doing justice, loving mercy,
and walking humbly with God.

To livestream the worship service:

The memorial service for Merrill Raber is this Saturday, May 3, 11 a.m. in the BCMC Sanctuary with a lunch to follow. Live-stream link for the service is: https://youtube.com/live/_3KzTE8LCN8?feature=share

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
May 4, 2025
Third Sunday of Easter

Christ Candle Lighting

Centering Music—Lift High the Cross (Weber)—Karen Unruh
Land Acknowledgement—Jim Robb
Welcome & Prayer
*Hymn—I Know That My Redeemer Lives (verses 1-4)—VT 347
Children and Youth Conversation—Deb Gering
Worship Music—Do Lord, O Do Lord (Bill Ingram)—Chancel Bells, Verlene Garber, director
Scripture Reading—John 21:1-19—Dorothy Nickel Friesen
*Hymn—Seeking Warmth from Charcoal Blazing—VT 344
Sermon—From the Miraculous to the Mundane—Nathan Koontz
*Hymn—Now the Green Blade Rises—VT 353
Prayers of God’s People
*Hymn—The Risen Christ—VT 345
(During the hymn those with April birthdays come forward to receive a birthday blessing.)
*Birthday Blessing and Benediction
Postlude–“Excerpts from The Best of John Williams” (arr. Wagner)
                                     (“May the Fourth be With You”)–Chancel Bells

*You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Audio visual—Francis Toews

Land Acknowledgement from words by Mark Charles and VT #878
As we do on the first Sunday of each month,
  we acknowledge that we worship
  on the land of the Kanza, Osage, and Wichita.
We thank them for their care and respect for this land
  and acknowledge the injustice of their forced removal.
We ask the Spirit to heal our histories
  and find new paths of right relationships with them
  and all of creation.

GOING BEYOND LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
From the Repair Coalition:
“While the Supreme Court has yet to take any action on the Apache Stronghold case, the federal government on Thursday, April 17, 2025, announced that it plans as early as June 16, 2025 to publish a final environmental impact statement and begin moving forward with the transfer and destruction of Oak Flat. On Friday, April 18, Becket Law filed a letter with the Supreme Court explaining that this makes it even more urgent for the Court to hear the case.
Thanks to the federal government’s haste, Apache Stronghold now has legal standing to request an injunction, a legal order for ‘the courts to stop this move in its tracks and ensure justice can be delivered before Oak Flat is permanently destroyed,’ with the District Court as another avenue in case the Supreme Court decides to not hear Apache Stronghold’s case.”
BCMC Task Group will be organizing a prayer vigil and letter writing campaign next week on behalf of the Apache Stronghold and Oak Flat. Watch for a request for your help! “May we lament all that has been and is destroying life.”

A congregational meeting is scheduled for this Sunday, May 4, 10:45 a.m., after the worship service.
Youtube link for the meeting is: https://youtube.com/live/G7KfOKQLN28?feature=share
For the agenda for the meeting and the Annual Report booklet press here. There will be printed copies available in the Gathering Place.

The Week at BCMC: May 4-11, 2025
Sunday, May 4, 2025:  Worship—9:30 a.m.   Congregational meeting in the sanctuary—10:45 a.m.
YouTube Link for the worship service this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/oGRJicG3mac?feature=share
YouTube Link for the congregational meeting
https://youtube.com/live/G7KfOKQLN28?feature=share

Monday, May 5, 2025—Church Office will be closed today
6-8 p.m.    Newton Community Children’s Choir Party in Fellowship Hall
7:30 p.m. Bethel College Campus Ministry event in the sanctuary
Tuesday, May 6, 2025—Pastors will be on a retreat
Thursday, May 8, 2025
5:15 p.m.   Hospitality Commission meeting in Fellowship Hall
6 p.m.        Bethel College rehearsal in sanctuary
Friday, May 9, 2025
11 a.m. Bethel College Open Road and Woven rehearsal in sanctuary
6 p.m.   Bethel College rehearsal in sanctuary
Sunday, May 11, 2025
9:30 a.m.   Worship with sermon by Joanna Harader; sabbatical blessing for Pastor Nathan Koontz; welcome to new members
4 p.m.    Bethel College Open Road and Woven Concert in the sanctuary
6 p.m.    Bethel College rehearsal in sanctuary

Pastor Joanna Harader will be out of the office from May 1 to May 6. She is attending the “Fabulous, Fierce, and Sacred” event in Philadelphia from May 2-4.

Upcoming Events at BCMC:
· May 18, 10 a.m.: Bethel College Baccalaureate at BCMC
· May 30, 11 a.m.: Memorial service for Helen Bargen at BCMC

Forty-one years ago–in spring 1984–leaders of the Western District Mennonite Conference took away John Linscheid’s ministerial credentials because he is gay. In a worship service at 4 p.m. Sunday, May 11, at Peace Mennonite Church in Lawrence, KS, current WDC leaders will apologize for what their predecessors did. You can read more details about this event on the Western District Conference website. Please contact Pastor Joanna if you would like to carpool with others who are attending from Newton.

As most of you know, Pastor Elizabeth Schmidt has announced her plan to retire from her position at Bethel College Mennonite Church later this fall, after Pastor Nathan returns from his sabbatical. The BCMC board has had significant conversations with all three pastors and is now working to develop a job description for a future pastoral position. Our moderators will be creating a search committee that will carry forward our church’s search process. Your prayers are appreciated as we look toward this upcoming time of transition.

BCMC Offering for Apr. 20: Gen. Fund $8,846; MCC Sale $25; Sr Hi Youth $2,172; Caring Fund $1,336; Library Reserve Fund $5; Women’s Fellowship $509; Merrill Raber Mem. $150.
For April 27: Gen. Fund $1,485; Plant Fund $50; Sr Hi Youth $511; Flower Fund $15; Church Retreat $848.

Want to make your voice heard but don’t know how? Check out “5 Calls,” an easy and effective way to be in touch with your congressional reps. The website provides help with knowing how to make your calls, provides a timely list of topics to address (gets updated frequently) and a handy script guide to help you know what to say. Check them out at https://5calls.org/ —Witness Commission

Destination: Greensboro, NC: Mennonite Church USA conference 2025, July 8-12 If interested in being a delegate, contact any Gifts Discernment Committee (GDC) member: Jeanette Stucky, Jerry Buller, Dick Koontz, Francis Toews or the church office. Delegate sessions will be July 12. GDC reimburses registration fees to delegates.

You are invited to attend the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Relief Sale Annual Meeting Thurs., May 22, 6 p.m., at Hesston Mennonite Church. The cost for the meal is $20/person and you will pay at the door. Please RSVP to Barb BJ Reeves by May 19, 620-543-6863 or bj.reeves@live.com The meeting to celebrate our successful Sale and present MCC with a check will be held after dinner at approximately 7 p.m. A filled sandwich bag of California almonds will be available for $20.

Youth ages 12 to 17 are invited to become a Junior Volunteer at Schowalter Villa (Hesston) or Kidron Bethel Village (North Newton) for the summer. The Bluestem Communities Junior Volunteer program runs from June 2 to July 25. Participants will interact with residents in a variety of ways, including activities, games, exercise, conversation and more. It’s a wonderful opportunity for intergenerational connections and to enrich the lives of all involved! Applications are required and must be submitted by May 9. For an application or questions, contact Bluestem Communities Volunteer Coordinator Sheri Esau at SheriE@bluestemks.org.

Bethel College Announcements
· Sun., May 4: Bethel College Masterworks Concert, 4 p.m.: Three Nocturnes by Dan Forrest; Exsultate, Jubilate by Mozart; Considering Matthew Shepard: A Choral Suite by Craig Hella Johnson, with mass choir, orchestra and soloists; Memorial Hall
· Weds., May 7: Jazz on the Green at Bethel College, 7 p.m. (rain venue: Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center)
· Thurs., May 8: Bethel College Voice Studio recital, Dr. Holly Swartzendruber, instructor, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel
· Sun., May 11: Dr. Valerie Mendoza, Kansas City Kansas Community College, “Stories of Mexican Migration to Kansas,” 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum auditorium
· Sun., May 11: Woven and Open Road joint concert, 4 p.m., Bethel College Mennonite Church
· Mon., May 12: Dr. Henry Waters’ Hymnology class invites the public to a Hymn Festival, 7 p.m., Bethel College Mennonite Church. Sing and learn more about a selection of hymns from Voices Together.
· Now in the Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center – Senior Art Exhibit, featuring the work of Bethel College students Gracie Higgins, April Powls and Lizzie Schmucker, through May 18. Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
· Bethel College advancement and development staff invite you for coffee and conversation (and some light breakfast snacks): Friday, May 9, 7:30-9 a.m., Thresher Stadium Viewing Suite, on campus at N. Main & 29th Streets, North Newton; or Friday, May 23, 7:30-9 a.m., The Breadbasket, 219 N. Main St., Newton (alumni-owned). Contact: George Leary, gleary@bethelks.edu, 316-284-5226
· SAVE THE DATE: Sunday, June 1: U.S. premiere of the 1874 immigration documentary Where the Cottonwoods Grow, Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center

This semester at Bethel College, Dr. Henry Waters has been teaching a Hymnology class, drawing heavily from Voices Together and using C. Michael Hawn’s “seven streams of hymnody.” The public is invited to the class’s culminating activity, a hymn festival at Bethel College Mennonite Church, Monday, May 12, at 7 p.m. The evening will feature a variety of hymns that class members have chosen from Voices Together to reflect the different streams and what they’ve learned in the class. Come and sing some hymns that will be familiar and some that might be new to you.

Kidron Bethel Village is hosting a vintage car show Fri., June 6, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. If you have a vehicle you would like to bring to show, we would love to have you share it! Register your vehicle by contacting Kelli at 316-836-4865 or KelliM@bluestemks.org. No entry fee, judging or prizes; just a rewarding day of sharing your favorite cars, trucks and tractors.

Register today for the Mennonite Central Committee Immigration Learning Tour in South Texas, Oct. 4-9. This immigration-focused learning tour presents a unique opportunity to engage directly with organizations making a positive impact on our neighbors. Find out more at mcc.org/learning-tour-texas.

Camp Mennoscah announcements

Calling all campers! We’re taking “Another Way” and finding transformation in Jesus’ way of living. Summer camps are open for those going into grades 3-12. Scholarships are available and parents volunteering as kitchen helpers can receive a discount up to full camp fees for a camper. Register here! (https://campmennoscah.campbrainregistration.com/) Come build your house on the rock and play in the sand!

Weekly music leaders are needed! If you know of someone who you think might be great as a weekly music leader, please tap them on the shoulder. Olivia would love to talk to them. Contact us at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 316-293-7313 (call or text). Summer staffers must be 18 or older.

Camp Mennoscah has several trees that have lived long lives and need to be cut down to avoid damage. Some can be taken down without a lift. Camp Mennoscah has limited equipment to properly handle the removal of these trees. Please contact Olivia at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org, if you would be able to help.

Camp Mennoscah is busy preparing for summer youth camps and guests. It may take additional time to respond to your email or phone call. We will answer as soon as possible. If a quicker response is needed, please call 316-293-7313.

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
From Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
For Mennonite Church USA MennoCon Information press here
For Paris Mennonite Center Update press here
For Mennonite Men “Engage” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “Just Peace Pilgrimages this Summer press here
For Mennonite Church USA “Bringing the Peace Initiative” Award Nominations press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
The MC USA Delegate Assembly is Friday, July 11, at the Koury Convention Center in Greensboro, North Carolina. Delegate resources, including the agenda, bylaws, previous minutes and proposed resolutions will be posted on MC USA’s Delegate Assembly website as they are available. See the web page here: mennoniteusa.org/2025-delegate-assembly-resources/ Register for Delegate Assembly here: mennoniteusa.org/registration/

Visit the MC USA Follow Jesus ’25 Congregation Kit for ways to help share convention details with your church! The kit includes easily shareable logos, social media posts and other materials to make keeping your congregation up to date a breeze. Learn more here: convention.mennoniteusa.org/follow-jesus-25-press-kit/

The Mennonite Education Agency board of directors and the MC USA Executive Board recently approved an integration plan to better address the needs of the denomination by bringing the ministry of MEA into the governance and operational structure of MC USA. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/mea-integration/

MC USA’s Climate Justice Ministry is accepting applications for the Pam De Young Net Zero Energy Fund grant, due June 15, 2025. The Pam De Young Net Zero Energy Fund provides funds to assist MC USA congregations interested in forms of renewable energy. Learn more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/25-energy-grants

Menno Snapshots

Rachel Ringenberg Miller will be the worship speaker during the opening worship session at MC USA’s Follow Jesus ’25 convention. Read here for a sneak peek into what “Follow Jesus” means to her: mennoniteusa.org/follow-jesus-expectations

Leah Hoffner, executive assistant for MC USA, shares her experience of choosing to step away from the career she built to rest and live a slower life after becoming a mother. Read more about her experience here: mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/rest-in-motherhood/

Dear Bethel College Mennonite,Join MCC Mexico for a Week of service: Summer camp for peacebuilding with kids. Be part of a unique service experience with children and learn about the Rarámuri, Mestizo, and Mennonite communities in the City of Three Cultures.Where: Cuauhtémoc, Mexico
Who: Young adults 18-30 years old (intermediate Spanish skills required)
When: July 27 to August 2, 2025
Cost: MCC covers local expenses; participants cover travel to Chihuahua, Mexico.
How: Register hereby May 15!For more information about the camp, contact: Gyna Romero, coordinator of projects, relations, and exchange program, MCC Mexico, at gynaromerocamacho@mcc.org.Thanks!Nathan Toews
Peace Education Coordinator
MCC U.S. National Peace & Justice Ministries

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Laura and Nick Sharp, and their children, Jesse (8) and Brielle (5), as they prepare to begin a year-long assignment in La Mesa, Colombia, where they will serve alongside the Colombia Mennonite Church and its school, Colegio Americano Menno (American Menno School).
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC representatives (Eric Buller, Moderator; Caleb Gingerich, Executive Board member; and Heidi Regier Kreider, Conference Minister) joining others from across the wider church to attend Mennonite Church USA Constituency Leaders Council meetings next weekend in Wichita, KS.

2025 04 27 worship service and announcements

Bethel College Mennonite Church Retreat at Camp Mennoscah April 26 and 27, 2025

There will be no church worship service at the BCMC building this Sunday, April 27. BCMC will be worshipping at Camp Mennoscah. There will be three baptisms at the Camp Mennoscah worship service– Maisie Brubacher, Emma Gering, and Abram Wall. If you still wish to come to the retreat and have not registered, please email Adam Robb at adamandjillrobb@gmail.com

Youth Group Fundraiser–BCMC Plant Sale

There are tomato plants and other plants in the BCMC south entry, today through Monday, April 25-28! There will be an honor system to pay for plants. The plants are looking really good!
There is a suggested donation of $3 per plant – but you can give more to send the Senior High Youth Group to MennoCon!

To read a list of the plants offered see below or press here

Bethel College Mennonite Church
Youth Plant Sale 2025
Kansas Dep’t of Agriculture Plant Dealer’s License: 19166-13702

Click on each plant variety name to pull up the seed company description.

Varieties have been chosen because of proven performance in Kansas’ hot, humid summers.

Slicing/Beefsteak Tomatoes

Red Snapper – Hybrid tomato; produces heavy yields of large tomatoes; excellent flavor; high disease resistance; determinate.

Bella Rosa – Hybrid tomato with heirloom flavor; performs very well in heat and humidity; heavy yields of medium sized tomatoes; excellent disease resistance; determinate.

Cherokee Purple – Heirloom tomato with dark coloration and excellent flavor; variety originated with the Cherokee People of Tennessee; handles heat and humidity better than most heirloom varieties; indeterminate.

Black Angel – Hybrid “heirloom type” tomato with dark coloration and excellent flavor; high yields; high disease resistance; determinate.

Paste/Roma Tomatoes

Tachi – Hybrid paste tomato; heavy yields that come on at once; great for canning and sauce; high disease resistance; determinate.

Shelby – Hybrid paste tomato; heavy yields that come on at once; great for canning and sauce; high disease resistance; thrives in heat; determinate.

Cherry Tomatoes

Sun Gold – Hybrid cherry tomato that produces loads of yellow-orange tomatoes that taste like sweet drops of sunshine! Indeterminate. One plant is probably enough! Our dog likes to steal these from the vine.

Sweetie – Heirloom cherry tomato that produces small clusters of red tomatoes on tall plants; indeterminate.

Patio Tomatoes

Containers Choice – Hybrid slicing tomato; dwarf size makes it suited to growing in pots, raised beds, or other tight spaces; determinate.

Also selling: Geraniums, Basil (Italian, Thai, Lemon, Cinnamon), and Summer Savory (Paepakruut)

Contact Will Wiebe-Friesen for more details – all plants were raised in Krehbiel Science Center at Bethel College.

Upcoming Events at BCMC· The memorial service for Merrill Raber will be May 3, 11 a.m. at BCMC.
· There will be a Congregational Meetingfollowing church on May 4. More details and agenda will come early next week. Committee and Commission chairs: If you have not turned in an annual report, please do so as soon as possible!
· May 11, 2025 Worship Service will include Senior Recognition of BCMC’s High School Graduates; a film of the baptisms at Camp Mennoscah; a welcome to new members; and a Sabbatical blessing for Pastor Nathan Koontz.

What hymn holds a special place in your heart? The worship commission wants to sing the hymns you love during our summer worship services. We will collect hymn requests through the month of April and then sing as many of your requests as we can over the summer months. We will also include notes in the bulletin about who chose which hymns and why. You may submit requests by filling out a “Summer Hymn Request” paper and placing it in the designated box or by emailing Pastor Joanna. Be sure to include a 1-3 sentence statement with your request letting us know why that hymn is special to you. What a gift it is to sing together! Hymn requests should be in by Wednesday, April 30.

BCMC Offering for Apr. 20: Gen. Fund $8,846; MCC Sale $25; Youth Group $2,172; Caring Fund $1,336; Library Reserve Fund $5; Women’s Fellowship $509; Merrill Raber Mem. $150.

Bethel College Announcements
Mon., April 28 – The annual Senior Art Exhibit, featuring the work of Bethel College students Gracie Higgins, April Powls and Lizzie Schmucker, opens in the Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center through May 18 (reception May 16). Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
Weds., April 30 – Bethel College Orchestra, directed by Kris Hilding, 7 p.m., featuring works by Juventino Rojas, Florence Price and Gustav Holst, Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center
Thurs., May 1 – Bethel College Wind Ensemble, directed by Chris Miertschin, 7 p.m., featuring works by Elgar, Stamp, Bilik and more; Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center
Sat., May 3 – Kauffman Museum bird walk, 7 a.m. start time in the museum parking lot at the corner of Main and 27th streets (2801 N. Main St., North Newton 67117). Experienced birders lead a walk of 1-1.5 hours in Chisholm Park and on Sand Creek Trail (terrain is mostly wood-chip path and sometimes uneven/sloping).
Sun., May 4 – Bethel College Masterworks Concert, 4 p.m.: Three Nocturnes by Dan Forrest; Exsultate, Jubilate by Mozart; Considering Matthew Shepard: A Choral Suite by Craig Hella Johnson – with mass choir, orchestra and soloists; Memorial Hall

Weds., May 7 – Jazz on the Green at Bethel College, 7 p.m. (rain venue: Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center)

Thurs., May 8 – Bethel College Voice Studio recital, Dr. Holly Swartzendruber, instructor, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel
Sun., May 11 – Dr. Valerie Mendoza, Washburn University, “Stories of Mexican Migration to Kansas,” 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum auditorium
Sun., May 11 – Woven and Open Road joint concert, 4 p.m., Bethel College Mennonite Church
Mon., May 12 – Dr. Henry Waters’ Hymnology class invites the public to a Hymn Festival, 7 p.m., Bethel College Mennonite Church. Sing and learn more about a selection of hymns from Voices Together.

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
Dear WDC followers of Jesus:
Jesus made space for little ones in his ministry. We can, too! Even if your congregation has few regularly-attending children, don’t you want to make space for them when they do attend? This is a great opportunity to learn more about what’s coming and what’s available through the Lilly Endowment grant we recently received.The grant invites us to “elevate the communal worship experience for all, while focusing on children.”
Please register soon for the FREE May 3, 11am-3 pm Kids Meet Christ Launch event at First Mennonite Church, Newton, KS or online (hybrid). Lunch is included for the in-person launch.
Register here by clicking the green “Register Here” button.
https://mennowdc.org/kids-meet-christ-kmc/
We’ve been working hard to prepare for the Launch. We hope to see you on May 3!
In peace,
Kathy Neufeld Dunn

Conversation on Immigration Concerns: Is your congregation seeking to learn more about current immigration issues, discern forms of action and advocacy, or offer solidarity and support for members of the immigrant community? WDC will host a zoom gathering for pastors and interested church members on Tuesday, April 29, at 6:30-8:30 pm to provide updates, information and resources, and an opportunity to connect with each other around these shared concerns. Guest presenter Esmeralda Tovar-Mora, Executive Director of Hutch in Harmony and founding member of the Kansas Immigration Coalition, will join us to focus particularly on resources in the Kansas region. The session will be in English, with Spanish interpretation provided. To receive the zoom link, please contact WDC at wdc@mennowdc.org or 316-283-6300 by noon on April 28.
For additional resources, also see the WDC website: https://mennowdc.org/immigration-justice-resources/; resources from Mennonite Church USA: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/resource-portal/resource/immigration-resources-advocacy/; and resources from Mennonite Central Committee: https://mcc.org/what-we-do/initiatives/disaster-response/support-immigrant-neighbors

Western District Women in Mission potluck salad meal shared with women and girls of the surrounding area followed by meditation on God’s creation through a floral design workshop by Rebecca Schrag on Mon., Apr. 28, 6 p.m., at Tabor Mennonite Church. Bring a salad to share, table service provided, and a small vessel (shallow bowl, tea cup size). Also bring garden or kitchen shears if you have one. RSVP: westerndistrictwomeninmission.org. For transportation: call Marlene V. Faul 316-288-9650 or email at marlene.violet@gmail.com

Public Witness: Sat., Apr. 26, 11:30 a.m. the Western District Conference Israel-Palestine Task Force with Mennonite Action are hosting a “God’s Love Knows No Borders” gathering at the Harvey County Courthouse, 800 N Main St, Newton. Please join us at 10:30 a.m. at Military Park, 200 E Broadway, if at all possible, to prepare for the event. For more information, email: robertleeatchison@gmail.com

Support Camp Mennoscah on May 2 with purchases at The Hub. 10% of all sales on May 2 will be donated to Camp Mennoscah. Musical groups will play from 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m. and include K81, Queen Jack Jericho, Brett and Caleb Klingenberg, and The Schrag Siblings. A Camp Mennoscah tee shirt quilt will be sold through a silent auction. A picture of the quilt can be seen at www.campmennoscah.org . Contact olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for a bidding from a distance option. (The Hub, 100 S. Christian, Moundridge, https://www.thehubbrickoven.com)

Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp Announcements

Memorial Day Work and Play May 23-26, 2025: Spend your holiday weekend at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp for the annual Work and Play Retreat! The weekend focuses on getting ready for the coming summer camp season by helping with foodservice, cleaning and fixing things, while also offering a free day on Sunday to enjoy the holiday weekend. A couple of exciting projects will include moving new furniture to Rocky Ridge and Emmental and assembling bunk beds for Park Ridge. The retreat will begin at 7:00pm on Friday and conclude after breakfast on Monday. Visit rmmc.org to learn more and to register!

Summer Resident Camps @RMMC: Resident Camps offer a slice of summer where campers experience the outdoors in a fun and safe community. Campers experience a new adventure while growing in their faith and exploring the Rocky Mountains. Our theme for Summer 2025 is Rocky Road. We don’t always know which road to take and it can often be a rocky one. Join in as we explore what the Bible tells us about these rocky roads – rocks that bring life and refuge (Ex. 17:6, Mat. 16:18), rocks that cry out (Luke 19:40), even rocks we think are too great to move (Mark 16:3-4). Register by May 31 to take advantage of the better rate!

For Mennonite World Conference Info press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
For Mennonite Women USA “Women’s Voices” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network bulletin announcements press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News from around the world” press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
The refrain, “We have been here before,” echoed throughout the Hope for the Future Conference at Goshen College, held Feb. 28–Mar. 2, 2025. This annual gathering for Black, Indigenous and other People of Color (BIPOC) leaders within MC USA celebrated resilience, honored the past and envisioned a future grounded in justice and hope. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/hftf25-30-years-anti-racism

MC USA honored seven community elders during a gala at its 12th Hope for the Future Conference, Feb. 28-Mar. 2, 2025, in Goshen, Indiana. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/elders-honored/

Watch the webinar recording about how to best equip your MC USA youth for the Follow Jesus ’25 convention in Greensboro, North Carolina, July 8-12, 2025! View it here: mennoniteusa.org/webinar/fj25-guiding-youth

View the full playlist of MC USA Safe Church ministry’s abuse prevention webinars on MC USA’s YouTube channel here: mennoniteusa.org/webinars-safechurch

Menno Snapshots

Michael Danner, associate executive director for Church Vitality in MC USA, discusses the theological rationale for why Mennonite Church USA joined the “sensitive locations” lawsuit as part of a broad faith coalition. Read his reflections here: mennoniteusa.org/free-exercise-of-faith

Karla Stoltzfus Detweiler, an ordained minister and former pastor in Central Plains Mennonite Conference, kicks off the “Learn, Pray, Join: Undoing Patriarchy” series by sharing a prayer for women. Read the prayer here: mennoniteusa.org/prayer-for-women

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request April 27
Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for the Kikubya Mennonite Church in Uganda, whose building was severely damaged by floods, and for the 15 families who lost their homes and/or crops. Bishop Simon Okoth asks for prayer and resources, as the church tries to carry on its ministries to its members, many of whom fled from violence in Rwanda generations ago. Despite their limited resources, Mennonites are also hosting people fleeing from violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Western District Conference Prayer Request April 27
Pray that WDC congregations may be renewed by the power of Jesus’s resurrection, boldly proclaiming the Good News and embodying Christ’s love, reconciliation, and justice mission in their communities and beyond -WDC Church Planting Commission

2025 04 20 worship service

press here for the video

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
April 20, 2025—Easter Sunday!

Prelude–Christ is Alive! Let Christians Sing [VT 359] (arr. J. Wayne Kerr)
Were You There? [VT 329] (arr. Diane Bish)
Christ ist erstanden, BWV 627 [VT 358] (J.S. Bach)
Christ the Lord is Risen Today [VT 346] (arr. Jason Payne)
Will Wiebe-Friesen

Resurrection Proclamation– Elizabeth Schmidt
One: Christ is risen!
All: Christ is risen indeed!
One: Christ is risen!!
All: Christ is risen indeed!!
One: Christ is risen!!!
All: Christ is risen indeed!!!

Christ Candle Lighting

*Hymn–Low in the Grave He Lay–VT 333

Welcome
*Hymn–Lift Your Glad Voices– VT 340
(Children are invited to go to the chapel as hymn is sung.)

Introduction to Gloria–Joel Garber

                           Gloria in D Major RV 589 (Antonio Vivaldi)
     Chancel Choir; Joel Garber, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist
I.   Gloria (Glory to God in the highest)
II.   Et in terra pax (And on Earth, good will to all.)
III. Laudamus te (We praise you, we bless you
      We worship you, we glorify you.)
       [Virginia Mininger, soprano; Ron Garber, tenor]

Scripture Reading–Luke 24:1-12–Mary Ellen Hodge

IV. Gratias agimus tibi (We give thanks to you)
V. Propter magnum gloriam (For your great glory!)
VI. Domine Deus (Lord God, Heavenly King, God the Father Almighty)
     [Virginia Mininger, soprano]

Scripture Reading–Luke 2:8-14–Mary Ellen Hodge

VII. Domine fili unigenite (Lord, the only begotten Son, Jesus Christ.)
VIII. Domine Deus (Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father
                            Heavenly King, only begotten Son,
                            Who takes away the sins of the world,
                             have mercy on us.)
                            [Allie Soeken, Mezzo soprano]

IX. Qui tollis peccata mundi (Who takes away the sins of the world.)
X. Qui sedes ad dexteram patris (You who sits at the right hand of the father, Have mercy on us.
     [Allie Soeken, Mezzo Soprano]

Meditation– Messy Glory–Joanna Harader

XI. Quoniam to solus sanctus (For you alone are holy,
       you alone are the Lord
       you alone are the most high, Jesus Christ.)
XII. Cum sancto spiritu (With the holy spirit,
        in the Glory of God, the Father, Amen)

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn–The Lord is Risen Indeed!–VT 357
(Children return during hymn.)

Children Share Resurrection Gardens

*Hymn–Christ the Lord is Risen Today–VT 346

*Benediction

Postlude–Toccata from Symphony 5 (Widor)–Will Wiebe-Friesen

*You are invited to stand     VT—Voices Together     Audio visual—Ben Lichti

Welcome and thank you to the orchestra members Sunday: Violin 1: Joan Griffing
Violin 2: Marta Prugar; Viola: Joey Menninga; Cello: Caleb Garber
Bass: Derek Jesse; Oboe: Aaron Robinson; Trumpet: Greg Bergman
And of course, thank you to the BCMC Chancel Choir, director Joel Garber, accompanist Will Wiebe-Friesen, and the soloists, Virginia Mininger, Ron Garber, and
Allie Soeken. Happy Easter to everyone!

Sunday’s service contains quite a variety of music! Some highlights—in addition to the Gloria—include some of the prelude and postlude music as well as congregational hymns. Christ ist erstanden is a chorale prelude—that’s music talk for a spiced-up setting of a hymn—from Bach’s Orgelbüchlein (Little Organ Book), in which he composed a chorale prelude for every Sunday of the Church Year. It is meant as a teaching tool, where the student can study different musical techniques in challenging, bite-sized pieces that are useful for worship. This hymn, which translates as “Christ is Arisen” and is found in VT 358, is interesting as it includes a joyful text paired with a minor tune, the oldest known German liturgical song, dating to around 1100.
Despite its somber tone, listen for the empathic alleluias in the third verse. The congregational hymn “The Lord is Risen Indeed” was composed by William Billings, regarded as the first American choral composer. His music has a distinct, primitive, folk-like sound and helped to shape the blossoming American Sacred Harp style of song. A tanner by trade, Billings was gifted in his art despite financial struggles, missing an eye, and being short in one leg. Ending the service is a portion of the famous toccata from Charles Marie Widor’s Fifth Organ Symphony. The toccata, a musical form named for the Italian “to touch,” is the final movement in the symphony and is his most well-known work. Imagine hearing it in the sonorous acoustics of the Parisian Church of St. Sulpice where Widor was organist for over 60 years.

2025 04 20 worship service and announcements

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
April 20, 2025
EASTER SUNDAY

Our faith in a God of love leads us, by the power of the Spirit,
to follow Jesus in doing justice, loving mercy,
and walking humbly with God.

To livestream the worship service:

EASTER MORNING WORSHIP SERVICES

6:30 a.m.   Easter Sunrise Service at Hank & Elaine Prouty’s, 332 N. Hoover Rd., Newton. Worship service by the BCMC Senior High Youth Group—Breakfast potluck will follow; please bring a breakfast item to share—All are invited! We are keeping an eye on the weather for Sunday morning — if there is inclement weather, the service may be moved to Fellowship Hall at BCMC. Please be sure to check your emails.

At the church ……..
An extended organ prelude will begin at 9:40 a.m.

10 a.m.   Worship with sermon by Joanna Harader; Easter Sunday at BCMC will include some exciting music! The Chancel Choir will be joined by organ and orchestra to present Vivaldi’s Gloria. In addition to this, the congregation will join in singing several favorite Easter hymns.
There will be no Sunday School

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
April 20, 2025—Easter Sunday!

The Week at BCMC: April 20—27, 2025
Sunday, April 20, 2025: 9:40 a.m. Organ Prelude   10:00 a.m. Easter Worship
No Sunday school today
YouTube Link for the worship service this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/2ZIAC8vrzS8?feature=share

Tuesday, April 22, 2025
2:30 p.m. Staff Meeting
7 p.m.       Bethel College Women’s Association meeting in Fellowship Hall
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
7:30 p.m.   Chancel Choir practice in the Sanctuary Chancel area
Thursday, April 24, 2025
6 p.m. Chancel Bell Rehearsal in Room B7
7 p.m. Deacon Commission meeting in Room 14
Saturday, April 26 and Sunday April 27—BCMC Retreat at Camp Mennoscah

Retreat at Camp Mennoscah – April 26 & 27

It is once again time for the BCMC Retreat at Camp Mennoscah! This year’s retreat is the weekend of April 26 and 27. Whether this might be your first time at camp, or you are a seasoned pro, the weekend has something to offer for all ages! Come on Saturday for some play time, a meal (this year, we’re doing a Saturday evening potluck), a hayrack ride, and some fellowship – and stay overnight if you’d like! And/or come on Sunday for Worship (which begins at 10 AM and will feature baptism activities – with no worship held at BCMC), breakfast and/or lunch, and some afternoon play/fellowship time. More information about the retreat can be found at the following links:
Information and Schedule

Registration Form

So that we can have an idea of how many to plan for on Sunday for breakfast and lunch, we would appreciate your registrations by no later than Monday, April 21. Retreat cost – mostly fees that we pay to Camp Mennoscah – can be found on the registration form. Please reach out to Adam Robb (adamandjillrobb@gmail.com OR 620-747-0185) with any questions OR if you’d like to help out with the retreat in some way. We once again look forward to this time of fellowship on the grounds of Camp Mennoscah!

Upcoming Events at BCMC
· Zwieback Fundraiser Sale by the Youth Group—Pickup is Sun., April 20 (Easter morning) Minimum donation $10 per dozen
· BCMC’s Camp Mennoscah Retreat will be Apr.26-27. See email for more details.
· The memorial service for Merrill Raber will be May 3, 11 a.m. at BCMC.
· We will be having a Congregational Meeting following church on May 4. More details and agenda will follow as the date approaches. Committee and Commission chairs: Please turn in your annual reports as soon as you can!

BCMC Offering for Apr. 13: Gen. Fund $21,276.19; Wed. Supper $331; Caring Fund $350; Flower Fund $150; Kitchen Fund $26; Solar Fund $4,000.

What hymn holds a special place in your heart? The worship commission wants to sing the hymns you love during our summer worship services. We will collect hymn requests through the month of April and then sing as many of your requests as we can over the summer months. We will also include notes in the bulletin about who chose which hymns and why. You may submit requests by filling out a “Summer Hymn Request” paper and placing it in the designated box or by emailing Pastor Joanna. Be sure to include a 1-3 sentence statement with your request letting us know why that hymn is special to you. What a gift it is to sing together!

Destination: Greensboro, NC: Mennonite Church USA conference 2025, July 8-12
If interested in being a delegate, contact any Gifts Discernment Committee (GDC) member: Jeanette Stucky, Jerry Buller, Dick Koontz, Francis Toews or the church office. Delegate sessions will be July 12. GDC reimburses registration fees to delegates.

Bethel College Announcements
· Mon., Apr. 21: Bethel College Distinguished Achievement Award presentation to Carolyn Coon ’82, 11 a.m., Krehbiel Auditorium
· Fri. April 25, Sat., April 26, Sun., April 27: Spring play at Bethel College, The Bookstore by Adam Szymkowicz, Fri. & Sat., 7:30 p.m., Sun., 2 p.m. matinee,
Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center). Friday evening performance interpreted for the d/Deaf community. Ticket purchase required (buy on campus weekdays at Thresher Shop; online at https://www.bethelks.edu/fine-arts/theater/theater-department-presents/; or at the door).
· Weds., Apr. 30: Bethel College Orchestra, directed by Kris Hilding, 7 p.m.,
Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center
· Thurs., May 1: Bethel College Wind Ensemble, directed by Chris Miertschin, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center
· SAVE THE DATE: Sun., May 4: Masterworks concert at Bethel College: Three Nocturnes by Dan Forrest, Exsultate, Jubilate by Mozart, and Considering Matthew Shepard: A Choral Suite by Craig Hella Johnson
· SAVE THE DATE: Mon., May 12, Hymn Festival presented by Dr. Henry Waters’ Hymnology class, Bethel College Mennonite Church

Youth ages 12 to 17 are invited to become a Junior Volunteer at Schowalter Villa (Hesston) or Kidron Bethel Village (North Newton) for the summer. The Bluestem Communities Junior Volunteer program runs from June 2 to July 25. Participants will interact with residents in a variety of ways, including activities, games, exercise, conversation and more. It’s a wonderful opportunity for intergenerational connections and to enrich the lives of all involved! Applications are required and must be submitted by May 9. For an application or questions, contact Bluestem Communities Volunteer Coordinator Sheri Esau at SheriE@bluestemks.org.

Support Camp Mennoscah on May 2 with purchases at The Hub. 10% of all sales on May 2 will be donated to Camp Mennoscah. Musical groups will play from 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m. and include K81, Queen Jack Jericho, Brett and Caleb Klingenberg, and The Schrag Siblings. A Camp Mennoscah tee shirt quilt will be sold through a silent auction. A picture of the quilt can be seen at www.campmennoscah.org . Contact olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for a bidding from a distance option. (The Hub, 100 S. Christian, Moundridge, https://www.thehubbrickoven.com)

Want to make your voice heard but don’t know how? Check out “5 Calls,” an easy and effective way to be in touch with your congressional reps. The website provides help with knowing how to make your calls, provides a timely list of topics to address (gets updated frequently) and a handy script guide to help you know what to say. Check them out at https://5calls.org/ —Witness Commission

Life Enrichment, in the Bethel College Krehbiel Auditorium, is a series designed especially for adults age 60 and over. Programs for April 23 are:
9:30 a.m.: “Near-Death Experience: Anecdotes and Analysis,” Dr. Herb Smith, professor emeritus of philosophy and religion, McPherson College
10:50 a.m.: “Fill Your Heart with Music,” Newton Mid-Kansas Symphony Orchestra ensemble

Western District Women in Mission potluck salad meal shared with women and girls of the surrounding area followed by meditation on God’s creation through a floral design workshop by Rebecca Schrag on Mon., Apr. 28, 6 p.m., at Tabor Mennonite Church. Bring a salad to share, table service provided, and a small vessel (shallow bowl, tea cup size). Also bring garden or kitchen shears if you have one. RSVP: westerndistrictwomeninmission.org. For transportation: call Marlene V. Faul 316-288-9650 or email at marlene.violet@gmail.com

Conversation on Immigration Concerns: Is your congregation seeking to learn more about current immigration issues, discern forms of action and advocacy, or offer solidarity and support for members of the immigrant community? WDC will host a zoom gathering for pastors and interested church members on Tuesday, April 29, at 6:30-8:30 pm to provide updates, information and resources, and an opportunity to connect with each other around these shared concerns. Guest presenter Esmeralda Tovar-Mora, Executive Director of Hutch in Harmony and founding member of the Kansas Immigration Coalition, will join us to focus particularly on resources in the Kansas region. To receive the zoom link, please contact WDC at wdc@mennowdc.org or 316-283-6300 by noon on April 28.
For additional resources, also see the WDC website: https://mennowdc.org/immigration-justice-resources/; resources from Mennonite Church USA: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/resource-portal/resource/immigration-resources-advocacy/; and resources from Mennonite Central Committee: https://mcc.org/what-we-do/initiatives/disaster-response/support-immigrant-neighbors

Public Witness: Sat., Apr. 26, 11:30 a.m. the Western District Conference Israel-Palestine Task Force with Mennonite Action are hosting a “God’s Love Knows No Borders” gathering at the Harvey County Courthouse, 800 N Main St, Newton. Please join us at 10:30 a.m. at Military Park, 200 E Broadway, if at all possible, to prepare for the event. For more information, email: robertleeatchison@gmail.com

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.

Everence will hold a Medicare workshop at its office, 3179 N. Main St. Suite 1B, North Newton, Thurs., Apr. 24, 6:30 p.m. Topics include, when and where to sign up for Medicare, what Medicare covers, plus an explanation of Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D. Attendance is recommended for those approaching retirement or those ready to sign up for Medicare. Those interested in attending should contact the Everence office at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com.

National Poetry Month Guest Artist. The New York Actress Michele LaRue Kliewer will perform Warren Kliewer’s poetry, Places, Please: Act One, Fri., Apr. 25, 11 a.m. at Kidron Bethel. On Sat., Apr. 26, 3 p.m., she will perform Bedquilt by Dorothy Canfield Smith at the Newton Public Library. Free admission to both performances although donations to defray costs will be graciously accepted. Warren Kliewer spent his early years in Mt. Lake, MN and then taught at Wichita State University before moving to New York where he founded the East Lynne Theatre Company. A selection of Warren’s publications will be for sale. — Lauren Friesen

Our goal was to collect 7,000 comforters this winter – and the results are in. We gathered your comforter donations across the U.S. and Canada, tallied the numbers and are so excited to share the result!

Between January and March 2025, you knotted 18,368 comforters!

This is incredible! We are so thankful for your hard work, creativity and generosity. These comforters will keep people warm all over the globe. Their colorful, cozy patterns will be a tangible expression of God’s love, letting families know that they have not been forgotten.

Please enjoy this story and video about how comforters are already making an impact on people in Zambia.

Thank you for your continued care and support of people around the world.

For Mennonite Disaster Service “On the Level” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
For Mennonite Disaster Service “Volunteer Update” Press here

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: On this Easter Sunday, join Mennonite Mission Network’s 74 workers and 183 partner organizations throughout the United States and 45 other countries around the world in proclaiming the message of Jesus’ resurrection power and love to those we encounter.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for all WDC congregations, as they embody the presence of the risen Christ, and live out resurrection hope through ministries of compassion, peacemaking, and justice.

2025 04 13 worship service

press here for the video

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
April 13, 2025
Palm Sunday

Christ Candle Lighting

Centering Music—with Palm Parade—Hosanna, Loud Hosanna—VT 313—Will Wiebe-Friesen

Welcome—Jill Robb

Leader: Shout hosanna!
Congregation: Jesus comes in the name of God.
Leader: Sing songs of praise!
Congregation: Glory in the highest heaven.
Leader: We enter into this Holy Week together
Congregation: With joy and gratitude; in fear and trembling.
Leader: Let us hear the story–
Congregation: The whole story.
Leader: Let us worship in faith,
All: Confident of God’s loving presence.

*Hymn—Jesus Is Coming—VT 312

Children and Youth Conversation—Megan Kohlman & Michelle Burkholder

*Hymn—All Glory, Laud, and Honor—VT 315

Worship Music— Praise to the Lord, the Almighty (arr. Mark Hayes)–Chancel Choir; Joel Garber, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist/Chancel Bells, Verlene Garber, director

One-Minute Meditation

Scripture Reading—Mark 11:1-10—David Kreider

Reflection—Save Us, We Pray!–Joanna Harader

*Hymn—With Astonishment, Fear, and Wonder—VT 579—Joel Garber, Leader

Scripture Reading—Luke 23:44-56—David Kreider

Reflection—What Kind of Salvation is This?–Joanna Harader

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Ride On, Ride On in Majesty—VT 316

*Benediction

Postlude– Trumpet Tune (by David German)

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Keyboard- Will Wiebe-Friesen
Audio visual—Ken Lamp

2025 04 13 worship service and announcements

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
April 13, 2025
PALM SUNDAY

Our faith in a God of love leads us, by the power of the Spirit,
to follow Jesus in doing justice, loving mercy,
and walking humbly with God.

To livestream the worship service:
On Sunday morning, around 9:20 a.m. go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen, which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box below that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. Anytime after the service concludes, you can watch a recording of the service at your convenience by clicking the same green LIVE STREAM button. Again, you will probably have to go to the gray box that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. That will transfer you to the BCMC YouTube Channel. You will have to click on the tab “Videos” to see all of the BCMC videos. Click the red button to see the bulletin/order of service.
OR – click on this link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/s-XO5FCEu6g?feature=share

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Keyboard- Will Wiebe-Friesen
Audio visual—Ken Lamp

The Week at BCMC: April 13—20, 2025
Sunday, April 13, 2025: 9:30 a.m. Worship — 10:30 a.m. Faith Formation
YouTube Link for the worship service this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/s-XO5FCEu6g?feature=share

4 p.m.     Hymn Sing in the Sanctuary (to raise funds for Youth Group to go to
MennoCon25.

Monday, April 14, 2025
6:30 p.m. Community Playschool Board Meeting in Fellowship Hall
7:15 p.m. Community Playschool Annual Corporation Meeting in Fellowship Hall
Tuesday, April 15, 2025
1 p.m.       Staff Meeting
7 p.m.       Women’s Fellowship General Meeting and Tea in Fellowship Hall
7:30 p.m. Finance Committee Meeting in Room 14
Wednesday, April 16, 2025
7:30 p.m.   Chancel Choir practice in the Sanctuary Chancel area
Thursday, April 17, 2025—Maundy Thursday
5:30 p.m. Family Friendly Worship in the Chapel
6:30 p.m.   Maundy Thursday Worship Service with Communion, in the Sanctuary
No Chancel Bell Rehearsal this Thursday
Friday, April 18, 2025—Good Friday
This is a designated holiday for the BCMC staff—church office will be closed
Sunday, April 20, 2025—Easter Sunday
6:30 a.m.   Easter Sunrise Service at Hank & Elaine Prouty’s, 332 N. Hoover Rd., Newton. Worship service by the BCMC Senior High Youth Group—Breakfast potluck will follow; please bring a breakfast item to share—All are invited!
10 a.m.   Worship with sermon by Joanna Harader; Easter Sunday at BCMC will include some exciting music! The Chancel Choir will be joined by organ and orchestra to present Vivaldi’s Gloria. In addition to this, the congregation will join in singing several favorite Easter hymns. An extended organ prelude will begin at 9:40 a.m.; there will be no Sunday School

We offer sympathy to the family of Rosalie Neufeld. Rosalie died on April 4 at Kidron Bethel Village.
Please remember her sons, Kevin Neufeld and Keith Neufeld in prayer. Memorial plans are pending.

“Every Quilt Has a Story”, presented by Chris Allen, and Tea coordinated by Brenda Turner and Lois Brubacher will be Tue., April 15, at 7 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. All women and Girls are invited to this Women’s Fellowship General Meeting.

You are invited to join us for the next concert of the Kansas Mennonite Men’s Chorus (KMMC), a 120-member chorus including members from BCMC. Students in the Open Road and Woven choirs join KMMC at Bethel College. Concerts are free with an offering benefiting Mennonite Central Committee. Concert is Sunday, April 13, 4 p.m. at Memorial Hall, Bethel College, North Newton

Special Offering for BCMC Caring Fund on Maundy Thursday, Apr. 17 : The Caring Fund is an above budget benevolent fund administered by the Deacon Commission for the purpose of assisting our congregation’s members and community persons in need. The fund is generated by above budget offerings made payable to BCMC and designated “caring fund.” Two fish bowls will be in the back of the church for this special offering on Maundy Thursday.

Upcoming Events at BCMC
· Members of the Agape class are leading a book discussion of Joanna’s new book, Prone to Wander, during Lent. We meet in the chapel during the Sunday School hour. Reading the book is not necessary. All are welcome.
· Pastor Elizabeth Schmidt is on vacation Apr. 9 through 16. In her absence, please contact Pastor Nathan Koontz or Pastor Joanna Harader.
· Women’s Fellowship Tea for Women & Girls will be Tues., Apr. 15, 7 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Program by Chris Allen portraying her life with quilts. Tea chaired by Brenda Turner with WF Executive Board.
· On Maundy Thursday, Apr. 17, in addition to the previously announced Maundy Thursday worship, we will also have a family friendly worship service at 5:30 p.m. in the chapel. This family service is appropriate for all ages as we will share the story of Holy Week with interactive stations. You can reach out to Jill Robb or Pastor Joanna with questions.
· Zwieback Fundraiser Sale by the Youth Group—Pre-orders will be taken. Pickup will be Sunday, April 20 (Easter morning) Minimum donation $10 per dozen
· Easter morning, April 20, 6:30 a.m. Senior High Youth Group Sunrise Service at Hank & Elaine Prouty’s, 332 N. Hoover Road, Newton—Breakfast potluck follows
· BCMC’s Camp Mennoscah Retreat will be Apr.26-27. See email for more details.
· We will be having a Congregational Meeting following church on May 4. More details and agenda will follow as the date approaches.

From the Finance Committee
As the 1st quarter of the financial year of our church ends, we offer gratitude for the generosity shared in donating monetary offerings toward our annual budget. Each gift is important to the process of fulfilling our mission. A brief report is listed below.
The following is a BCMC financial report of the general fund income and expenses on March 31, 2025 (25% of the year).
Total income $ 85,112 15% of budget
Total expense $136,017 24% of budget
Net income/expense -$ 50,905

BCMC Offering for Apr. 6: Gen. Fund $17,306; Wed. Supper $220.80; Caring Fund $50; Flower Fund $50; Kitchen Fund $16.60; Solar Fund $500.

The Staff Congregation Relations Committee will be conducting a regular pastoral review for Pastor Nathan Koontz this Spring. Pastor Nathan will be concluding his current term in October. We believe that the purpose of a pastoral review is to review the relationship between the congregation and the pastor and assess whether we have the right environment to foster growth. Because Pastor Nathan’s upcoming sabbatical will affect our timeline, we will be using an open-ended questionnaire for this review. Questionnaires will be sent to Sunday School class contacts, Commissions and Committees who work closely with Pastor Nathan, and will be available to all in the Gathering Place. Please return questionnaires to either the box near the mailboxes or electronically to Megan Kohlman by April 13.
You may also access a digital copy of the survey here, to be emailed to Megan when completed: http://bit.ly/4bILIgy
Direct any questions to Megan Kohlman, meganbkohlman@gmail.com.

The annual meeting of the Community Playschool Corp. will be Mon., Apr.14, 7:15 p.m. at the BCMC Fellowship Hall. Interested members of the congregations supporting Community Playschool are invited to attend. Enter through south doors.

Western District Women in Mission potluck salad meal shared with women and girls of the surrounding area followed by meditation on God’s creation through a floral design workshop by Rebecca Schrag on Mon., Apr. 28, 6 p.m., at Tabor Mennonite Church. Bring a salad to share, table service provided, and a small vessel (shallow bowl, tea cup size). Also bring garden or kitchen shears if you have one. RSVP: westerndistrictwomeninmission.org. For transportation: Call Marlene V. Faul 316-288-9650 or email at marlene.violet@gmail.com

Public Witness: Sat., Apr. 26, 11:30 a.m. the Western District Conference Israel-Palestine Task Force with Mennonite Action are hosting a “God’s Love Knows No Borders” gathering at the Harvey County Courthouse, 800 N Main St, Newton. Please join us at 10:30 a.m. at Military Park, 200 E Broadway, if at all possible, to prepare for the event. For more information, email: robertleeatchison@gmail.com

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.

Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Announcements

MCC grateful for shipments of Material Resources in 2024 – MCC, despite the bridge collapse in Baltimore, weather-related and other unexplained delays, strikes and piles of required paperwork, shipped 48 containers to MCC partners in 9 countries and Puerto Rico. Five were shipped from Canada, 42 from the U.S. and one from Europe. Items shipped included canned meat, comforters, soap and school, relief, hygiene, sewing, infant care and dignity kits. These shipments are a result of the thousands of MCC supporters, donors, and volunteers. Thanks be to God!

MCC Great Winter Warmup surpasses goal! Thank you for helping MCC surpass the Great Winter Warmup goal of 7,000 comforters during the months of January, February and March. During this 3-month campaign MCC received 12,875 comforters! Thank you to each person who tied knots this winter to share warmth, comfort, and love around the world!

Register today for the MCC Immigration Learning Tour in South Texas, October 4-9. This immigration-focused learning tour presents a unique opportunity to engage directly with organizations making a positive impact on our neighbors. Find out more at mcc.org/learning-tour-texas.

Volunteer with MCC Appalachia Build: We have had some spots open in our volunteer schedule for the summer. Consider bringing your group for a life-changing week of serving and learning with MCC Appalachia Build (formerly SWAP), a home repair ministry in eastern Kentucky and West Virginia. Volunteers help families make their homes safe, warm and dry, while building relationships and learning about Appalachia. Learn more and register your group at mcc.org/appalachia-build.

For Mennonite Central Committee “In Touch” press here

From MCC US National Peace & Justice Ministries
Dear Bethel College Mennonite,Registerto participate in “The promise we dream” Peace Camp, June 16-21!“I will pour out my Spirit on all people” (Joel 2:28, NIV)
What does it mean to live into God’s promise? As God’s Spirit is poured out onto us, we are called to go forth searching for and proclaiming justice and love for all. With division and inequalities in our world, we can come together to imagine and create a world that is home to each one of us. Join us for a week of exploration and adventure as we discover and learn how to build bridges across our diverse identities and unique perspectives, living into God’s promise cohesively. Surrounded by the pristine beauty of Camp Deerpark, we will address how to lean into restorative justice, power, and identity both in an interpersonal and societal context.
MCC Peace Camps are one-week, hands-on learning experiences for young adults to build community together, experience personal transformation and apply Anabaptist foundations of peace and justice to real world issues.

When: June 16-21, 2025
Where: Camp Deerpark, Westbrookville, New York
Who: Young adults aged 18-30
How: Register by May 30.
Registration Fee: $250.00 guarantees your spot at the camp. For all New York City residents the fee is $50.00.
Peace Camps are one way to encourage and support the next generation of the Church to live out an active faith as peacemakers. Young adults, ages 18-30, are invited to apply. MCC covers all costs of travel, lodging and meals beyond the registration fee. We encourage churches, schools, families and friends to support participants in the registration fee where possible. This is an opportunity not to be missed, so tap someone on the shoulder or come join yourself!
Warmest regards,
Nathan Toews
Peace Education Coordinator
MCC U.S. National Peace & Justice Ministries

Destination: Greensboro, NC: Mennonite Church USA conference 2025, July 8-12
If interested in being a delegate, contact any Gifts Discernment Committee (GDC) member: Jeanette Stucky, Jerry Buller, Dick Koontz, Francis Toews or the church office. Delegate sessions will be held on July 12. GDC reimburses registration fees to delegates.

National Poetry Month Guest Artist. The New York Actress Michele LaRue Kliewer will perform Warren Kliewer’s poetry, Places, Please: Act One, Fri., Apr. 25, 11 a.m. at Kidron Bethel. On Sat., Apr. 26, 3 p.m., she will perform Bedquilt by Dorothy Canfield Smith at the Newton Public Library. Free admission to both performances although donations to defray costs will be graciously accepted. Warren Kliewer spent his early years in Mt. Lake, MN and then taught at Wichita State University before moving to New York where he founded the East Lynne Theatre Company. A selection of Warren’s publications will be for sale.
— Lauren Friesen

Bethel College Announcements
· Sun., Apr.13: John Thiesen, “Re-membering the 1870s Migration,” 3 p.m.
Kauffman Museum auditorium. This Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum
program is in connection to the current special exhibit, “Unlocking the Past:
Immigrant Artifacts & the Stories They Tell.” Thiesen is co-director of libraries
and archivist at the Mennonite Library and Archives at Bethel College.
· Thurs., April 17: Senior recital by BC student Benjamin Rudeen, voice, 7 p.m., Ad Building chapel
· Fri. April 25, Sat., April 26, Sun., April 27: Spring play at Bethel College, The Bookstore by Adam Szymkowicz, Fri. & Sat., 7:30 p.m., Sun., 2 p.m. matinee, Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center). Friday evening performance interpreted for the d/Deaf community. Ticket purchase required (buy on campus weekdays at Thresher Shop; online at https://www.bethelks.edu/fine-arts/theater/theater-department-presents/; or at the door).
· Last chance to see the 2024 Student Art Exhibit in the Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center, featuring the work of 45 Bethel College students, which closes April 18. Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
· Weds., Apr. 30: Bethel College Orchestra, directed by Kris Hilding, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center
· Thurs., May 1: Bethel College Wind Ensemble, directed by Chris Miertschin, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center
· SAVE THE DATE: Mon., May 12, Hymn Festival presented by Dr. Henry Waters’ Hymnology class, Bethel College Mennonite Church
· SAVE THE DATE: Sun., May 4: Masterworks concert at Bethel College: Three Nocturnes by Dan Forrest, Exsultate, Jubilate by Mozart, and Considering Matthew Shepard: A Choral Suite by Craig Hella Johnson

Camp Mennoscah Announcements
Music and Quilt Auction at The Hub on May 2! Support Camp Mennoscah on May 2 with purchases at The Hub. 10% of all sales on May 2 will be donated to Camp Mennoscah. Musical groups will play from approx. 6pm-8:30pm and include K81, Queen Jack Jericho, Brett and Caleb Klingenberg, and The Schrag Siblings. A Camp Mennoscah tee shirt quilt will also be sold through a silent auction. A picture of the quilt can be seen at www.campmennoscah.org and is attached. Contact olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for a bidding from a distance option. (The Hub, 100 S Christian, Moundridge, KS, https://www.thehubbrickoven.com)

Music and office summer staffers are needed! If you know of someone who you think might be great for these positions, please tap them on the shoulder. Olivia would love to talk to them, even if they are only available for part of the summer. Contact us at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 316-293-7313 (call or text). Summer staffers must be 18 or older and are usually college or near-college age folks.

Camp Mennoscah is looking for kitchen helpers and other volunteers to make great camp experiences. Parents can receive a camper discount up to full camp fees as a kitchen volunteer. Contact Olivia at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 316-293-7313. Summer youth camps cannot happen without you!

Camp Mennoscah is busy preparing for summer youth camps and guests. It may take additional time to respond to your email or phone call. We will answer as soon as possible. If a quicker response is needed, please call 316-293-7313.

For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “Seeds of Peace” press here

Announcements from Mennonite Church USA
MC USA has launched the newest Learn, Pray, Join, initiative, titled Undoing Patriarchy. This educational initiative provides an opportunity for churches to deepen understanding around a common topic and to come together in prayer and support. Learn more about Undoing Patriarchy here: mennoniteusa.org/lpj/undoing-patriarchy

MC USA has launched an online storefront featuring hats, sweatshirts, mugs and more. Check out the selection of merch that displays Follow Jesus, The MC USA dove and a retro line of gear from past conventions. Every sale helps support MC USA ministries! bonfire.com/store/mc-usa-gear/

Season One of MC USA’s The Competent Pastor podcast addresses the question: What is the most important skill of a competent pastor? Find it here: mennoniteusa.org/the-competent-pastor/ View the playlist here: mennoniteusa.org/the-competent-pastor-playlist

Menno Snapshots

Abby Endashaw, a member of the MC USA Women in Leadership steering committee, shares how our uncertainty because of the many fears we face today can be quelled by offering ourselves compassion, as an access point to God. Read her reflections here: mennoniteusa.org/uncertainty-calls-compassion

A look at how the (Old) Mennonite Church addressed the crisis of decreasing youth involvement with innovative solutions and an emphasis on the value that young ideas offered. Read the article, written by Olivia Krall, archives coordinator for MC USA, here: mennoniteusa.org/rise-of-youth

College Mennonite Church, Goshen, Indiana, received a surprise grant to spread kindness and learned about the needs of their community in return. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/college-mennonite-kindness

For information about the Women’s Summit at MennoCon press here

BCMC RETREAT

It is once again time for the BCMC Retreat at Camp Mennoscah! This year’s retreat is the weekend of April 26 and 27. Whether this might be your first time at camp, or you are a seasoned pro, the weekend has something to offer for all ages! Come on Saturday for some play time, a meal (this year, we’re doing a Saturday evening potluck), a hayrack ride, and some fellowship – and stay overnight if you’d like! And/or come on Sunday for Worship (which begins at 10 AM and will feature baptism activities – with no worship held at BCMC), breakfast and/or lunch, and some afternoon play/fellowship time. More information about the retreat can be found at the following links:
Information and Schedule

Registration Form

So that we can have an idea of how many to plan for on Sunday for breakfast and lunch, we would appreciate your registrations by no later than Monday, April 21. Retreat cost – mostly fees that we pay to Camp Mennoscah – can be found on the registration form. Please reach out to Adam Robb (adamandjillrobb@gmail.com OR 620-747-0185) with any questions OR if you’d like to help out with the retreat in some way. We once again look forward to this time of fellowship on the grounds of Camp Mennoscah!

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for those participating in a 12-day Christ at the Borders Just Peace Pilgrimage to Calais, France, where they are visiting organizations that work with migrants who are trying to cross the English Channel. Pray for the participants as they get first-hand experience with Mission Network partner ministries at Maria Skobtsova House, in Calais, and Peaceful Borders, in the United Kingdom.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC staff as they gather tomorrow for a retreat for fellowship, planning, prayer and discernment together.

2025 04 06 worship service

press here for the video

Recognition of Nursery, Children, and Youth Volunteers-Jill Robb

*Hymn—God of Grace and God of Glory—VT 716

One-Minute Meditation

Scripture Reading—Mark 5:21-34—John Waltner

Sermon—Immediately–Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—Healer of Our Every Ill—VT 644

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Will You Come and Follow Me—VT 540

*Benediction

Postlude–Have Thine Own Way Lord (arr. Wilhelmi)–Meghann Rogers

*You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Keyboard- Meghann Rogers
Audio visual—Francis Toews

2025 04 06 worship service and announcements

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
April 6, 2025
FIFTH SUNDAY OF LENT

Our faith in a God of love leads us, by the power of the Spirit,
to follow Jesus in doing justice, loving mercy,
and walking humbly with God.

Organ Recital and Hymn Sing to Honor Shirley King: Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 7:30 PM at Bethel College Mennonite Church, 2600 College Ave, North Newton.

Organist Christopher Shaw will present an organ recital/hymn festival to remember Shirley Sprunger King. King taught at Bethel College for twenty years and was organist at Bethel College Mennonite Church. Shaw will be joined by Lorraine Miller (flute) and Don Kehrberg (oboe), both former members of the Deknatel Consort with King. In addition to organ pieces and hymns, there will be remembrances of Shirley.
The recital will include Johann Sebastian Bach’s Fantasia in G Major and chorale prelude based on In Dir Ist Freude. Three pieces from King’s CD, Hymnal Masterworks: Organ and Instrument, will be performed, including Robert Hobby’s prelude on ENGELBERG, Libby Larsen’s piece for flute and organ Fantasy on SLANE, and Phillips Jone’s prelude on TOKYO. King commissioned a piece for the Region III AGO Convention in Harrisburg, PA, June 2011 by Robert Lau, Fanfares and Toccatas on ‘Engelberg’ that will be performed.
Christopher Shaw is an active accompanist, organist, guest conductor and recitalist. He is a graduate of Bethel College (KS) and Wichita State University, holding a bachelor’s degree in organ performance and a master’s degree in music education with an emphasis in choral conducting. Shaw teaches choral music at Goddard High School, where he directs five choirs, teaches music theory and music theatre, and music directs the spring musical. He is the organist at Plymouth Congregational Church, Wichita, joining the staff in the fall of 2011.
The live-stream link for the recital is: https://youtube.com/live/5vYX01V00ek?feature=share

BCMC WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR APRIL 6, 2025

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
April 6, 2025
Fifth Sunday of Lent

Christ Candle Lighting

Centering Music—Secreto from “impressions Intimas” by (Mompou)–Meghann Rogers

Land Acknowledgement–Dale Schrag

Welcome & Prayer
Leader: We come in search of healing for ourselves and for those we love.
Congregation: We come in hope and in faith, reaching out to Jesus.
Leader: Let this be a place where our names are known and our stories honored.
Congregation: Let this be a time when our suffering is met with compassion.
Leader: Let this be a space for us to experience wholeness and peace.
All: Let this be a moment when our fingertips graze the hem of the holy.

*Hymn—There’s a Wild Hope in the Wind—VT 828

Children and Youth Conversation—Esther Koontz

Recognition of Nursery, Children, and Youth Volunteers-Jill Robb

*Hymn—God of Grace and God of Glory—VT 716

One-Minute Meditation

Scripture Reading—Mark 5:21-34—John Waltner

Sermon—Immediately–Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—Healer of Our Every Ill—VT 644

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Will You Come and Follow Me—VT 540

*Benediction

Postlude–Have Thine Own Way Lord (arr. Wilhelmi)–Meghann Rogers

*You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Keyboard- Meghann Rogers
Audio visual—Francis Toews

Land Acknowledgement from words by Mark Charles and VT #878
As we do on the first Sunday of each month, we acknowledge that we worship
  on the land of the Kanza, Osage, and Wichita.
We thank them for their care and respect for this land and acknowledge the
injustice of their forced removal. We ask the Spirit to heal our histories
  and find new paths of right relationships with them and all of creation.

GOING BEYOND LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: The BCMC Task Group for Indigenous Justice is in touch with Sarah Augustine and Indigenous leadership about how members of the newly forming Kansas Repair Coalition can support Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence. A sister institute of higher learning in the state, Haskell was founded in 1884 as a land grant institution for educating Indigenous students from all over the country. Haskell was devastated recently by faculty and staff cuts when federal funding was withdrawn in violation of yet another treaty with Indigenous peoples.

The Week at BCMC: April 6—13, 2025
Sunday, April 6, 2025: 9:30 a.m. Worship — 10:30 a.m. Faith Formation
YouTube Link for the worship service this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/ospt49ZRjbc?feature=share

Tuesday, April 8, 2025
9 a.m.   Women’s Fellowship Executive Board meeting in Room 14
1 p.m. Staff Meeting
Wednesday, April 9, 2025—Last Wednesday Night Supper
5:30 p.m.   Supper in Fellowship Hall (Menu is: Tetrazzini, peas, Stéphanie & Caroline Tatin Apple Tarte)
6:30 p.m.   Program in Fellowship Hall—exploring some biblical stories through art and poetry using the new Anabaptism at 500 resource: Drawing Near.
7:30 p.m.   Chancel Choir practice in the Sanctuary Chancel area
Thursday, April 10, 2025
6 p.m.        Chancel Bells rehearsal in Room B7
Sunday, April 13, 2025—Palm Sunday
9:30 a.m.   Worship with sermon by Joanna Harader; music by Chancel Choir and
Chancel Bells      10:30 a.m. Faith Formation

Are you new to or newly exploring Bethel College Mennonite Church? Pastor Joanna will host a gathering for newcomers in her office today, April 6, after worship. This will be an informal time for people to get to know each other and ask questions about the church. All are welcome!

Upcoming Events at BCMC
· Members of the Agape class are leading a book discussion of Joanna’s new book, Prone to Wander, during Lent. We meet in the chapel during the Sunday School hour. Reading the book is not necessary. All are welcome.
· Join us for the remaining Wednesday night supper Apr. 9, at 5:30 p.m.  After the meal there will be a brief program at 6:30 p.m. exploring some biblical stories through art and poetry using the Anabaptism at 500 resource: Drawing Near.
· Pastor Elizabeth Schmidt will be taking vacation Apr. 9 through 16. In her absence, please contact Pastor Nathan Koontz or Pastor Joanna Harader.
· Lilies for Easter. You are invited to share an Easter lily for the sanctuary on Easter Sunday, Apr. 20.  BCMC will purchase the lilies. The cost will be $15 per lily. Make checks to BCMC designated “Flower Fund.” Contributors may pick up lilies to take home after the Easter worship service. You will be able to designate in honor of someone or in memory of someone with your Easter lily. There will be a table in the Gathering Place today, April 6, for you to sign up for a lily.
· Women’s Fellowship Tea for Women & Girls will be Tues., Apr. 15, 7 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Program by Chris Allen portraying her life with quilts. Tea chaired by Brenda Turner with WF Executive Board.
· On Maundy Thursday, Apr. 17, in addition to the previously announced Maundy Thursday worship, we will also have a family friendly worship service at 5:30 p.m. in the chapel. This family service is appropriate for all ages as we will share the story of Holy Week with interactive stations. You can reach out to Jill Robb or
    Pastor Joanna with questions.
· BCMC’s Camp Mennoscah Retreat will be April 26-27.
· We will be having a Congregational Meeting following church on May 4. More details and agenda will follow as the date approaches.

Special Offering for BCMC Caring Fund on Maundy Thursday, Apr. 17 : The Caring Fund is an above budget benevolent fund administered by the Deacon Commission for the purpose of assisting our congregation’s members and community persons in need. The fund is generated by above budget offerings made payable to BCMC and designated “caring fund.” Two fish bowls will be in the back of the church for this special offering on Maundy Thursday.

SAVE THE DATE! Newton Community Vacation Bible School 2025!
Where: First Mennonite Church, Newton
When: May 27-30, 2025 5 to 7:30 p.m.
Who: Ages 4 through Just finished 5th grade
Registration opens April 13

Destination: Greensboro, NC: Mennonite Church USA conference 2025, July 8-12
If interested in being a delegate, contact any Gifts Discernment Committee (GDC) member: Jeanette Stucky, Jerry Buller, Dick Koontz, Francis Toews or the church office. Delegate sessions will be held on July 12. GDC reimburses registration fees to delegates.

BCMC Offering for Mar. 30: Gen. Fund $7,942; Wed. Supper $203; Plant Fund $50; Flower Fund $45; Kitchen Fund $20.22; Edie Krehbiel Mem.$550; Louise Thieszen Mem.$70; Cal Flickinger Mem.$50.

From the Finance Committee
As the 1st quarter of the financial year of our church ends, we offer gratitude for the generosity shared in donating monetary offerings toward our annual budget. Each gift is important to the process of fulfilling our mission. A brief report is listed below.
The following is a BCMC financial report of the general fund income and expenses on March 31, 2025 (25% of the year).
Total income $ 85,112 15% of budget
Total expense $136,017 24% of budget
Net income/expense -$ 50,905

Lenten Sunday Scripture Readings from Pastor Joanna:
April 6: Mark 5:21-34
April 13: Luke 19:28-40; Luke 23:44-56

Dear Church Family: I was overwhelmed with the many “Acts of Kindness” shown me during my recent illness. I would like to thank the pastors for their visits and prayers. Also my heartfelt thanks to so many who visited me, brought food between my four hospitalizations, provided transportation and prayed for me. I feel very blessed to be part of such a caring community. Justina Neufeld

The annual meeting of the Community Playschool Corp. will be Tues., Apr.14, 7:15 p.m. at the BCMC Fellowship Hall. Interested members of the congregations supporting Community Playschool are invited to attend. Enter through south doors.

The Central Kansas Master Chorale, directed by Dr. Joel Garber, is Sunday, Apr. 6, 3 p.m. at Hesston Mennonite Church, 309 S Main Street. For more information, visit the chorale website at www.centralkansasmasterchorale.org

Sunday, March 23, the BCMC Abuse Prevention and Response Committee provided an informational session during the Sunday School hour about the abuse of employees by the Mennonite Central Committee. For more information please click this link to a document from which you can find numerous resources about these issues, including documents posted both by MCC and by their critics: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1jFPcfR5AZSe0vmLdSG-RH2srTl3LZ3Lcsr98ZnOLV5E/edit?usp=drive_link

Kansas Interfaith Action is hosting a coffeehouse on Apr. 6, 7 p.m. at Trinity Heights United Methodist Church, 1200 Boyd Avenue, Newton. A wonderful opportunity to gather with like-minded people of faith in the Newton area to sing, pray, and talk together. Contact Pastor Joanna for more information.

The Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale (KMRS) is this coming weekend! Come Fri. evening or Sat. to volunteer in a booth, eat great food, bid at an auction, walk or run the 5K, meet a new friend, or simply enjoy a spring day at the Kansas State Fairgrounds in Hutchinson. Everything you spend will go to supporting the world-wide relief, development and peace efforts of Mennonite Central Committee.
· Sunday, April 6, is the last day to sign up to bake pies or zwieback. Come to the back of the sanctuary immediately after worship to sign up and get tins and bags.
· Contributions to the Plants Sale (bulbs, flowers, vegetable starts, herbs–anything that grows) are welcome. Deliver plants and baked goods to BCMC on Fri. or by 7:30 Sat. morning for transport to the sale. Take baked goods to the BCMC kitchen and plants to the south entry. Make sure everything is labeled.
· Volunteers are still needed! For many opportunities to help in a booth, see the online sign up sheets at https://kansas.mccsale.org/volunteer/
· Auction items. BCMC members and friends have donated many items to be sold at one of the six different KMRS auctions. Go to the Auctions page at https://kansas.mccsale.org/auctions/ to see some of the wonderful donations.
· This is the last Sunday to add your coins to the My Coins Count jug in the Gathering Place. Thanks to all who have already added coins and bills to support food assistance around the globe.
· For more information, go to the KMRS website at https://kansas.mccsale.org/ or contact a BCMC liaison (Brad and Diane Born, William and Esther Kreider Eash, and Steve and Elaine Schurr).
· Children’s Auction – Consider donating new, in-the-package, items to this year’s auction! Talk with the youth in your church to see what items they would like to bid on, but you can never go wrong with Hot Wheels, Barbie, board games, Lego sets, art kits, and sports equipment. If you wish to volunteer for the auction by clerking or helping in other ways contact Brad Kohlman– bkohlman32@gmail.com

Bethel College Announcements—All student recitals are in the Administration Building Chapel
· Mon., Apr. 7: Bethel College Outstanding Alumnus Award presentation to George Rogers III ’69, 11 a.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center
· Tues., Apr. 8: All interested singers are invited to participate in the 2025 Masterworks Concert at Bethel College. Rehearsals will be Tuesdays (April 8, 15, 22, 29), 6-8 p.m., Choir Room in Luyken Fine Arts Center, with several longer rehearsals the weekend of the concert, which is May 4 andfeatures Three Nocturnes by Dan Forrest, Exsultate, Jubilate by Mozart, and Considering Matthew Shepard: A Choral Suite by Craig Hella Johnson. Sign up ahead of time at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeMh6YvC_A3y1u5lzgphiXMJss8yKT59MTEm_QB4kgWfwWwmg/viewform (so that your contact information is available for digital materials, etc.) or at your first rehearsal.
· Thurs., Apr. 10: Senior recital—BC student Dylan Yoder, voice, 7 p.m.
· Fri., Apr. 11: Junior recital—BC student Caleb Garber, cello, 7 p.m.
· Sat., Apr.12: Senior recital—BC student Sophia Chindamo, voice & piano, 4 p.m.
· Sat., Apr. 12: Senior recital—BC student Emil Benavides, voice and clarinet, 7 p.m.
· Sun., Apr.13: John Thiesen, “Re-membering the 1870s Migration,” 3 p.m.Kauffman Museum auditorium. This Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum program is in connection to the current special exhibit, “Unlocking the Past:  Immigrant Artifacts & the Stories They Tell.” Thiesen is co-director of libraries and archivist at the Mennonite Library and Archives at Bethel College.

Life Enrichment, in the Bethel College Krehbiel Auditorium, is a series designed especially for adults age 60 and over.  Programs on April 9: 9:30 a.m.: “Thriving Through the Years: The Value of Active Daily Living,” Tracie Strain, Newton Recreation Commission wellness director and ACE personal trainer and Candice Egizi-Sifuentez, NRC program director
10:50 a.m.: “Fire Safety From Above,” Andy Harder, division chief, Community Risk Reduction, Newton Fire/EMS

You are invited to join us for the concerts of the Kansas Mennonite Men’s Chorus (KMMC), a 120-member chorus including members from BCMC. The concert at Tabor will include students in the Chamber Voices student ensemble. Students in the Open Road and Woven choirs join KMMC at Bethel College. Concerts are free with an offering benefiting Mennonite Central Committee.
Concert Dates—April 6, 4 p.m.: Richert Auditorium, Tabor College, Hillsboro
April 13, 4 p.m.: Memorial Hall, Bethel College, North Newton

From the Western District Conference
Public Witness: Saturday, April 26, 11:30 am the WDC Israel-Palestine Task Force with Mennonite Action are hosting a “God’s Love Knows No Borders” gathering at the Harvey County Courthouse, 800 N Main St, Newton, KS. Please join us at 10:30 am at Military Park, 200 E Broadway, if at all possible, to prepare for the event. For more information, please email robertleeatchison@gmail.com.

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.

For Paris Mennonite Center Update press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
For Mennonite Men “ENGAGE” press here

Camp Mennoscah Announcements
Music and Quilt Auction at The Hub on May 2! Join Camp Mennoscah from 6-8:30pm for an evening of music, food and fellowship to benefit Camp Mennoscah. The Hub will donate 10% of all sales on May 2 to Camp Mennoscah. Musical groups include K81, Queen Jack Jericho, Brett and Caleb Klingenberg, and The Schrag Siblings. A Camp Mennoscah tee shirt quilt will also be sold through a silent auction. A picture of the quilt will soon be at www.campmennoscah.org Contact olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for a bidding from a distance option. (The Hub, 100 S Christian, Moundridge, KS, https://www.thehubbrickoven.com)

Camp Mennoscah is looking for kitchen helpers and other volunteers to make great camp experiences. Parents can receive a camper discount up to full camp fees as a kitchen volunteer. Contact Olivia at Olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 316-293-7313.

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Now is the time to register for MC USA’s Follow Jesus ’25 biennial convention in Greensboro, North Carolina, July 8-12, 2025! Register here: mennoniteusa.org/registration/ View the PowerPoint slide here: mennoniteusa.org/register-for-FJ-25_slide View the PDF here: mennoniteusa.org/register-for-FJ-25_PDF

MC USA invites women from across the denomination to reclaim rest as resistance at the MC USA Women’s Summit on July 8, 2025, a transformative one-day event immediately preceding the Follow Jesus ‘25 national convention in Greensboro, North Carolina. Read the news release here: mennoniteusa.org/news/womens-summit/ Register and learn more here: convention.mennoniteusa.org/registration/women-summit/ View the PowerPoint slide here: mennoniteusa.org/WIL-Womens-Summit_slide View the PDF here: mennoniteusa.org/WIL-Womens-Summit_PDF

MC USA’s Climate Justice Ministry has begun accepting applications for the Pam De Young Net Zero Energy Fund grant, due June 15, 2025. The Pam De Young Net Zero Energy Fund provides funds to assist MC USA congregations interested in forms of renewable energy. Learn more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/25-energy-grants

Menno Snapshots

Matt Prichard, associate conference minister for emerging communities of faith in Central District Conference, shares his view that “to revitalize the church and effectively address global issues, Mennonite communities must focus on three key areas: deep community engagement, revitalized peacemaking and radical hospitality.” Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/good-time-to-be-mennonite

Dianne Garcia, pastor of the Iglesia Cristiana Roca de Refugio in San Antonio, Texas, reflects on what it means to celebrate Lent, even while being oppressed and experiencing injustice, in addition to offering Lenten challenges to those who experience privilege. Read her reflections here: mennoniteusa.org/lent-for-the-oppressed

Duncan Smith, director of The Corinthian Plan, MC USA’s healthcare plan for pastors and church workers, addresses the measles outbreak and MC USA’s position on vaccines and medical exemptions. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/mennonites-measles

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Michael Oyer, in his new capacity as MMN’s program director for Service Adventure, has just completed a three-day visit to the unit in Colorado Springs, CO. Pray for wisdom for Michael and the unit leaders, Christian and Leigha Stoltzfus. Pray for a year of growing in faith for participants ‬— Elisabeth Daudey, Alea Sagert, Sadie Sherman and Hannah Smith — and for their host congregation, ‬Beth-El Mennonite Church.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for youth ministry in WDC congregations, as pastors, families, mentors and teachers support young people and nurture their growth.

Bethel College Mennonite Church is an open and affirming congregation
centered in the life and teachings of Jesus. Embracing the divine within each person, we warmly welcome any and all into fellowship without regard to race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability,economic status, marital status, or age.