Author Archives: Monica Lichti

Announcements and Worship Service for December 24, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR
December 24, 2023

To livestream the worship service:
On Sunday morning, around 9:45, 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/mmGsiTK1Djs?feature=share

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
December 24, 2023
Fourth Sunday of Advent: Joy
Children’s Christmas Service

Prelude—The First Noel (Tufenkjian)—Abby Koontz
                  What Child is This—Brett and Collin Gaeddert
                  Silent Night—Caleb Koontz
                  French Lullaby—Lincoln Kohlman
                  Away in A Manger—Lucy Burch and Kenna Graber
                  O Holy Night—Naomi Koontz

*Advent Candle Hymn—Hope Is a Candle—verses 1-4—VT 211

Advent Candle Lighting—Lawrence, Lincoln, Megan & Brad Kohlman

*Advent Litany—Joy—VT 916

Welcome and Prayer—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—He Came Down—VT 239—5 verses: Joy, Hope, Peace, Love, Joy

Children’s Christmas Service—Sing and Tell the Story

*Hymn—With Mary Sing Magnificat—VT 208

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Angels We Have Heard on High—VT 249

Benediction

Postlude—Hark, the Herald Angels Sing—Lucy Burch and Kenna Graber

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

SING AND TELL THE STORY!

SCENES AND SONGS

Scene 1—Mary’s Home in Nazareth
Scene 2—Elizabeth’s Home in Judean Hill Country
                    Song—And My Spirit Sings
Scene 3—Joseph’s Carpenter Shop in Nazareth
Scene 4—On the Road from Nazareth to Bethlehem
                      Song—From Nazareth to Bethlehem
Scene 5—Shepherd’s Campsite near Bethlehem
Scene 6—Bethlehem
Scene 7—Everywhere!
                        Song—Go Tell It On the Mountain—VT 252

STORY TELLERS AND SINGERS

Faith Burch
Lucy Burch
Payne Claassen
Collin Gaeddert
Brett Gaeddert
Emma Gering
Emerson Gering
Adah Hodge
Lawrence Kohlman
Lincoln Kohlman

Abby Koontz
Ani Koontz
Naomi Koontz
Mara Oswald
Gabby Robb
Jake Robb
Lily Schloneger
Abram Wall
Mabel Wall
Addie Zerger
Justin Zerger

THANKS

Leaders:  Judy Harder, Mary Ellen Hodge, Tim Hodge, Jill Robb
Musicians:  Will Wiebe-Friesen, Suzy Burch, Tim Hodge, Susie Swartley
Back Drop Design and Builders:  Lauren Friesen, Ron Peters, Keith Harder
Props:  Judy Harder, Glen Ediger, David Kreider, Rose Haury
Intergenerational Sunday School Activities:  Deb Gering, Janet Friesen, Doug Miller, Maisie and Miles Brubacher
Others:  Ben Lichti, Audio-Visual and Monica Lichti

AND PARENTS!

LESSON AND CAROLS SERVICE FOR DECEMBER 24, 2023 AT 11 P.M.
YouTube Link for December 24, 11 p.m. Lessons and Carols Service
https://youtube.com/live/r54eKKox2BQ?feature=share

For the bulletin for the Lessons Carols Service press here

The church office will be closed during the week between Christmas and December 30.
There will be no Wednesday email on December 27.

Sunday, December 31, the worship service will begin at 10 a.m. We will sing a lot of Christmas hymns so come prepared to sing and rejoice!

Roger’s Whereabouts : Though the church office will be closed next week, Roger will be back in Newton on Wednesday (12/27) to complete planning for the December 31 worship service and to respond to unexpected circumstances. Feel free to call him at 785-220-1968. He will be celebrating with family in Newton on Friday afternoon and Saturday, but will lead worship on Sunday. Roger will drive back to Newton Sunday afternoon Whether he’s in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone call (785-220-1968).

BCMC Offering for December 17, 2023: General Fund $8,940.33; Plant Fund $108.33; Caring Fund $40; Living Stones $20; Flower Fund $25; Kitchen Fund $5.

From the Board:
Congregational Meeting:
Our next congregational meeting will be held at 12:45 p.m. on January 28, 2024. The following two items will be on the agenda:

Welcome Statement:
The BCMC board has approved a recommendation from the Inclusion Task Group to revise our congregation’s welcome statement which is in the church’s constitution. This announcement constitutes the required 30 day notice for a vote on a constitutional change. The revised version follows:
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 and age.

Change in Moderator Model:
The Board has proposed a bylaws change to shift church officer positions from Moderator Elect and Moderator, each serving two-year terms with a total commitment of four years, to Moderator Elect, Moderator, and Past Moderator. In the new model, each position would be held for one year with the Moderator Elect moving on to Moderator and Past Moderator in the following years, thus serving a three-year commitment. In summary, the new model shortens the term of commitment by one year and establishes a three-person leadership team.
The proposal and rationale can be accessed here.

Pastoral News:
The Board has renewed Roger Neufeld Smith’s half-time contract for an additional year (or less if a new regular pastor is found). We are so grateful for his willingness to continue offering his fine work, administrative and communication skills, and wisdom to our congregation in this transitional time.
The Board has also renewed Elizabeth Schmidt’s half-time contract for an additional year. Since she is now credentialed, her title has been changed to Pastor of Congregational Care. Her job description, although revised, remains fundamentally the same. Feedback from those working most closely with her was overwhelmingly positive and confirmed her pastoral gifts, organizational skills, and caring concern for congregants. Thank you, Elizabeth!

BCMC Programs

Christmas Eve Sunday, December 24, 2023 – 10 a.m.  Christmas Worship Service with the children and youth in the sanctuary followed by refreshments in the gathering place :  NOTE the change of time – worship starting at 10 a.m.
No Sunday school
Congregants are welcome to bring Christmas snacks to share for our coffee time in the gathering place after the worship service Dec. 24.

December 24, 2023, 11 p.m.       Lessons and Carols and candle-lighting service in the sanctuary

Sunday, December 31, 2023 – 10 a.m. First Sunday after Christmas
Christmas Hymn Sing in the sanctuary — NOTE the later time for worship
No Sunday school

Service of Remembrance
As we are in the holiday season that brings joy with the promise of new life and love birthed into our world, there is also grief as we miss those who have passed from this world in 2023. In order to recognize and mourn the loss of our loved ones from 2023, Bethel College Mennonite Church is hosting a Service of Remembrance on January 7, 2024 at 4 p.m., in the BCMC sanctuary.

We offer sympathy to the family of Don Kaufman. Don died December 18 at Kidron Bethel Village. Please pray for Don’s children, Kendra Kaufman, Galen Kaufman, and Nathan (and Jill) Kaufman, and their families.

Memorial Service for Jim Banman and Judy Coover
Please remember in your prayers Jim’s children, Steven, Susan, Christine, and T.J., and their families as they mourn the death of Jim on December 9. A joint memorial service for Jim and his wife, Judith Coover, who died in 2020, will be held on January 7, 2024, 1:30 p.m. at Kidron Hall, Kidron Bethel Village.

The library’s theme for the month of December is Advent/Christmas. We have quite a number of fiction/nonfiction choices for all ages. You might want to consider checking out books for visiting family members. We have so many good choices. Also, due to the Advent/Christmas Everybody books in the children’s section of the library, all the puzzles are now located in the library on the west wall. There are some wonderful choices for holiday family time. A suggested donation of $5 for a puzzle helps support the supplies needed to run the library.

Also on the west wall are a number of new books that were recently purchased through our budget and sale at Faith and Life Bookstore. Come check out the new selections in all genres. A brief write up of the new books is available by the library computer. Happy Holiday reading!
— Library Committee

The bulletin covers for Advent are used by permission from Salt Project,
https://www.saltproject.org/

Changes for your church directories:
· Note that Doug Penner’s email address is: dougpenn@sbcglobal.net
· Andrew Thiesen’s new address: 309 Davis Street, Garden City, KS 67846

Changes for the Beginning of Worship
As we begin 2024, the Worship Commission will be experimenting with a new format to begin our time of worship. There will be no prelude, but instead worship will begin with the sound of a bell or chime and lighting of the Christ candle at 9:30 a.m., then will move into a time of gathering/centering music, and will then move to the welcome and opening prayer. As you enter the worship space, we ask that once the chime sounds and the candle is lit, you refrain from conversation so that all can prepare for our time of worship together. The Worship Commission appreciates your flexibility and openness to trying new things in the new year!

Questionnaire for the Solar Project

At the December 10, 2023 congregational meeting, BCMC approved initiating Phase I of the Solar Panel project. As part of Phase I, BCMC is using this Questionnaire.

For the questionnaire and more information click here

Paper copies of the questionnaire are available on the ledge in the BCMC Gathering Place. Place these completed forms in the basket on the ledge. Envelopes have been provided.
Contact Margaret Toews with any questions.

.Bethel College Announcements
· Kauffman Museum at Bethel College invites you to visit during the holidays. Open hours are Tues.-Fri. 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and weekends 1:30-4:30 p.m. (closed Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve). The permanent exhibits are “Of Land and People,” “Mirror of the Martyrs” and “Mennonite Immigrant Furniture,” and the museum store is also open during those hours, with books, games, art and other gift items for sale (see kauffmanmuseum.org/museum-store/).
· Sun., Jan. 7 – Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum, “The Western Meadowlark: The State Bird, but Not the Only Exceptional Bird in Kansas,” with local birding expert Gregg Friesen, 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum at Bethel College.

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

The WDC Office and Resource Library will be closed for Christmas and New Years from Dec 23 through Jan 1. We will open again on Tuesday, Jan 2. Be sure to stop by the WDC Resource Library prior to this to pick up books for your kids, your grandkids or yourself to enjoy during the holiday break!

Register now for the MCC South Texas Learning Tour, February 4-9, 2024! This immigration-focused learning tour presents a unique opportunity to engage directly with organizations making a positive impact on our neighbors. You won’t want to miss this opportunity. Details and online registration can be found at mcc.org/south-texas-lt. Deadline to sign up is Jan. 20. Please contact Abraham Diaz Alonso with questions,
abrahamdiazalonso@mcc.org.

For Mennonite Church USA Christmas Greetings press here
Mennonite Church USA’s The Corinthian Plan is open for enrollment on Nov.1 through Dec. 31, 2023, for a Jan. 1, 2024 start date. The Corinthian Plan is a self-funded, health care plan for pastors and church workers, sponsored and owned by Mennonite Church USA. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/open-tcp24

Mennonite Church USA has relaunched Equipping, a quarterly, resource e-newsletter for pastors and leaders across MC USA. Read the Fall 2023 issue here: mennoniteusa.org/equipping-archive-11-2024 View the PDF here: mennoniteusa.org/pdf/equipping-subscribe

Menno Snapshots

Jon Carlson, moderator for Mennonite Church USA, reflects on how Mennonite Church USA is better together and how our collective participation in the church shapes us and reflects who we are as a body. Read his reflections here: mennoniteusa.org/where-mc-usa-going

For Mennonite Disaster Service press here
For Mennonite Disaster Service “On The Level” press here
For Christmas Greetings from Mennonite Mission Network press here
For Mennonite World Conference “Info” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for peace in the land where Jesus was born more than 2000 years ago. Pray, especially, for partners — Bethlehem Bible College, Nazareth Hospital and Nazareth Village — who faithfully work to peel away the layers of fear and hate that distort Jesus’ message of peace, in a time of escalating violence in Israel-Palestine.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Rejoice in the gift of Emmanuel, God-with-us! Give thanks for the many ways that WDC congregations embody Jesus’ presence in the world today.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!

View the worship service for December 17, 2023

press here for the video

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
December 17, 2023
Third Sunday of Advent: Love

Prelude—Nocturno, Op. 7 (Franz Strauss); Allegro moderato from Horn Concerto No. 1 in C Minor (Franz Strauss)— Chris Miertschin, horn; Will Wiebe-Friesen, piano

*Advent Candle Hymn—Hope Is a Candle, verses 1-3—VT 211

Advent Candle Lighting—Coralee Shenk, Jeanette & Steve Stucky

*Advent Litany—Love—VT 916

Welcome and Prayer—Esther Kreider Eash

*Hymn—O Come, O Come Immanuel—VT 210

Children’s Conversation—Esther Koontz

Anthem—Christmas is Here (Dale Wood)— Chancel Choir; Riley King, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist

Scripture Reading—John 1:1-9

*Hymn—The Light Shines in the Darkness—Bulletin insert

Adah Hodge, Mara Oswald, Lily Schloneger sing verses—Congregation sings chorus

Scripture Reading—I John 4:7-12

Sermon—God’s Love Revealed—Roger Neufeld Smith

*Hymn—Love Came Down at Christmas—VT 255

Prayers of God’s People

(Hymn Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord— VT 219)

*Hymn Love Has Come—VT 258

Benediction

Postlude—Toccata on Joy to the World (Brenda Portman)—Will Wiebe-Friesen

* You are invited to stand

VT—Voices Together

Keyboard—Will Wiebe-Friesen

Audio visual—Frances Toews

Announcements and Worship Service for December 17, 2023

To livestream the worship service:
On Sunday morning, around 9:20, 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/Wi3ZHcRxKYA?feature=share

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
December 17, 2023
Third Sunday of Advent: Love

Prelude—Nocturno, Op. 7 (Franz Strauss); Allegro moderato from Horn Concerto No. 1 in C Minor (Franz Strauss)— Chris Miertschin, horn; Will Wiebe-Friesen, piano

*Advent Candle Hymn—Hope Is a Candle, verses 1-3—VT 211

Advent Candle Lighting—Coralee Shenk, Jeanette & Steve Stucky

*Advent Litany—Love—VT 916

Welcome and Prayer—Esther Kreider Eash

*Hymn—O Come, O Come Immanuel—VT 210

Children’s Conversation—Esther Koontz

Anthem—Christmas is Here (Dale Wood)— Chancel Choir; Riley King, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist

Scripture Reading—John 1:1-9

*Hymn—The Light Shines in the Darkness—Bulletin insert
Adah Hodge, Mara Oswald, Lily Schloneger sing verses—Congregation sings chorus

Scripture Reading—I John 4:7-12

Sermon—God’s Love Revealed—Roger Neufeld Smith

*Hymn—Love Came Down at Christmas—VT 255

Prayers of God’s People

(Hymn Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord— VT 219)

*Hymn Love Has Come—VT 258

Benediction

Postlude—Toccata on Joy to the World (Brenda Portman)—Will Wiebe-Friesen
* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Keyboard—Will Wiebe-Friesen
Audio visual—Frances Toews

Chris Miertschin, assistant professor of music and director of bands at Bethel College, is our guest musician this Sunday. He lives in Abilene with his husband Jair and plays horn with the Salina Symphony Orchestra and Theatre Salina.

Used by permission from MennoMedia and Herald Press

This Week at BCMC: December 17—24, 2023
Sun., Dec. 17, 2023—Third Sunday of Advent
9:30 a.m. Worship     10:45 a.m. Faith Formation
Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/Wi3ZHcRxKYA?feature=share

The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation—Intergenerational class (fellowship hall);   High School (Room 24)    Adult Classes: Agape (nursery); Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21) Seekers (Rm 28)
Tues., Dec. 19, 2023
11 a.m.      Staff Meeting
7 p.m.        Womens’ Fellowship Program in Fellowship Hall—Prairie Bronze Ensemble Bell Choir will perform Christmas music—All are invited
Wed., Dec. 20, 2023
7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal in the sanctuary
Thurs., Dec. 21, 2023
5:30 p.m.   Pizza followed by the rehearsal at 6 p.m.
5:30 p.m.   Rehearsal for Christmas worship service in sanctuary
Sun., Dec. 24, 2023—Fourth Sunday of Advent
10 a.m.      Christmas Worship Service with the children and youth in the sanctuary followed by refreshments in the gathering place
No Sunday school
11 p.m.       Lessons and Carols and candle-lighting service in the sanctuary

The church office will be closed during the week between Christmas and December 30.

Roger’s Whereabouts :  Roger will be driving back to Topeka Sunday afternoon (12/17). He will be celebrating Christmas with his Topeka church, then back in Newton on Wed., Dec. 27, to help plan the BCMC worship service for Dec. 31. He will be available for pastoral care concerns that week. Whether he’s in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone call (785-220-1968).

The Prairie Bronze Ensemble will perform Christmas music Tues., Dec. 19, in Fellowship Hall at 7 p.m. The public is invited so please bring friends and family to enjoy the bell choir sponsored by BCMC Women’s Fellowship.

Congregants are welcome to bring Christmas snacks to share for our coffee time in the gathering place after the worship service Dec. 24. There will be no Sunday School on Dec. 24.

From the Board:
Thank you for your attendance and participation Sunday, December 10, in the vote indicating support for moving ahead with the solar panel project. The vote was 68 yes, 5 no; this means that more than 93% of those voting were in favor of further exploring solar panels on our church. Phase II will now begin. You can expect a chance to further express interest and make a pledge within the next several weeks. There will likely be a final vote for a more specific proposal at our next congregational meeting on January 28. Thank you so much to the solar panel subgroup of the Creation Care Committee, to the Finance Committee, and to several board members (specially Margaret Toews and Jon Zerger) for much hard work on this project and in preparation for the presentation yesterday.
— Ada Schmidt-Tieszen, BCMC Board Chair/Moderator

Public Witness in Wichita for Gaza Ceasefire, December 19

The BCMC Witness Commission along with the WDC Israel Palestine Task Force invites you, family, friends and allies to join Mennonite Action on Tuesday, December 19, for a public witness at Senator Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall’s offices in Wichita, KS to ask for a ceasefire in Gaza and Israel. We will meet at Lorraine Avenue Mennonite Church, 655 S Lorraine ST, at 10:30 am to rehearse the actions which include prayer, singing and sharing bread with congressional staffers and each other. We encourage fasting or bring your own lunch. We will drive and park near the offices of the Senators. There may be a $2-$3 parking fee. There will be a 6-block walk between Senator Moran and Senator Marshall’s offices. This is a somber event, and we encourage participants to wear black. A script of the event will be provided, and we should be finished by 3 pm. Specific questions may be referred to Kathy Neufeld Dunn at 620-755-4331 or Bob Atchison at 785-313-2292. Those from BCMC interested in attending are encouraged to gather on Sunday morning after worship in the front of the sanctuary to discuss plans and possible carpooling.

Sympathy Notice
We offer sympathy to the family of Jim Banman. Jim died December 9 at Kidron Bethel Village. Please remember in your prayers Jim’s children, Steven, Susan, Christine, and T.J., and their families. The funeral will be January 7, 2024, 1:30 p.m. at Kidron Hall, Kidron Bethel Village.

Service of Remembrance
In order to recognize and mourn the loss of our loved ones from 2023, Bethel College Mennonite Church is hosting a Service of Remembrance on January 7, 2024 at 4 pm, in the BCMC sanctuary.

The library’s theme for the month of December is Advent/Christmas. We have quite a number of fiction/nonfiction choices for all ages. You might want to consider checking out books for visiting family members. We have so many good choices. Also, due to the Advent/Christmas Everybody books in the children’s section of the library, all the puzzles are now located in the library on the west wall. There are some wonderful choices for holiday family time. A suggested donation of $5 for a puzzle helps support the supplies needed to run the library.
Also on the west wall are a number of new books that were recently purchased through our budget and sale at Faith and LIfe Bookstore. Come check out the new selections in all genres. A brief write up of the new books is available by the library computer. Happy Holiday reading!
— Library Committee

New BCMC directories are available in the Gathering Place between the mailboxes and in the south entrance on the glass table.

It’s about over, in just two weeks we will know for sure how we did financially this year. So if you haven’t gotten all your pledges fulfilled or if you want to give some money to the church or perhaps need an additional tax write-off, it’s time to do it. From the Finance Committee we want to thank you for making this a great year and we urge you to help us finish well so that it can be a really great year. Looking ahead to 2024, the financial picture is much more cloudy. There is a big gap between the intents and the proposed budget. We and the Church Board are looking for creative ways to deal with this problem. You can help by making sure that you have pledged or that you have pledged your maximum. Also your suggestions are coveted and your prayers for wisdom are coveted. With your help 2024 can be a great year also.
— Finance Committee

BCMC Women’s Fellowship Birthday Calendars are available from WF Executive Board members:
Lois Brubacher 620-837-3281; Lois Preheim 316-804-4713
Brenda Turner 316-283-8131; Janet Voth 316-283-1922
The suggested donation price is $10. This calendar project is designed to help build community and the donation is used to support WF Ministries.

Registration for the upcoming Kansas Mennonite Men’s Chorus season is at hand. Please consider joining. Some of you are already on the list and we certainly encourage new members. For further details please contact Joe Peters, BCMC contact.

BCMC Offering for December 10, 2023: General Fund $20,891.75; Gen Fund 2024 $2,125; Caring Fund $100; Library Reserve Fund $50; Flower Fund $20; Kitchen Fund $17; Women’s Fellowship $110; Solar Fund $3,000; Gladys Niles Memorial $270.

The Deacons Commission is working on a “Thinking of You” campaign for people who are isolated due to health concerns. For the next few Sundays, we will have a table at the back of the sanctuary with pages for your comments to members of our church whom we haven’t been able to see for a while. Please stop by and write a short greeting or sign your name to let them know we are thinking about them. For those of you who are unable to attend worship but can stop by the church during the week, these letters will be in the gathering place during the week for anyone to write a note before we send them out. Thank you! — Deacon Commission

Creation Care: While you are active in your Christmas shopping please remember to save plastic bags for recycling. We have collected 500 pounds with a goal of 1,000 pounds. — Vern and Jane Goering

Bethel College/Kauffman Museum Announcements
(Sun., Dec. 17) – Kauffman Museum celebration of the 75th anniversary of the longest running community science project in the world, the Harvey County Christmas Bird Count. Come and go at the museum from 1:30-4:30 p.m. to see the progress of the special exhibit “A Day with the Birds,” with brief remarks at 3 p.m.

Kauffman Museum at Bethel College invites you to visit during the holidays. Open hours are Tues.-Fri. 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and weekends 1:30-4:30 p.m. (closed Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve). The permanent exhibits are “Of Land and People,” “Mirror of the Martyrs” and “Mennonite Immigrant Furniture,” and the museum store is also open during those hours, with books, games, art and other gift items for sale (see kauffmanmuseum.org/museum-store/).

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

Greetings from Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp,Below, please find the following announcements for your congregation for upcoming camp programs here at RMMC.RMMC Online Trading Post: Still looking for that perfect Christmas gift? Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp has you covered. Check out the online Trading Post at tradingpost@rmmc.org for t-shirts, sweatshirts, and other RMMC items we can ship to you! We would also love to work with you to provide the gift of a summer camp experience for a loved one. Contact RMMC to discuss the options and to receive a coupon to represent your gift. Any gift you give is also a gift to camp and we appreciate your support. RMMC Volunteer Opportunities: The ministry at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp is possible because of the dedication of countless volunteers. Camp is still in need of volunteers for our winter programs, including Jr High Snow camp January 19-21, and Sr High snow camp February 18-20. Please visit our volunteer page on the website rmmc.org to sign up!

Register now for the Mennonite Central Committee South Texas Learning Tour, February 4-9, 2024! This immigration-focused learning tour presents a unique opportunity to engage directly with organizations making a positive impact on our neighbors. You won’t want to miss this opportunity. Details and online registration can be found at mcc.org/south-texas-lt. Deadline to sign up is Jan. 20. Please contact Abraham Diaz Alonso with questions, abrahamdiazalonso@mcc.org.

For Anabaptist Disabilities Network press here

For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here

For Eastern Mennonite Seminary Shalom Collaboratory press here

For Mennonite Education Agency “Looking Ahead to 2024” press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Mennonite Church USA’s Constituency Leaders Council brainstormed strategies for strengthening youth engagement at its first meeting of the 2023-2025 biennium via Zoom on October 27, 2023. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/clc-youth-engagement

Save the date for Hope for the Future 2024, the annual gathering of Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) leaders from across the country who are connected to Mennonite Church USA, on February 9-11, 2024 in Dallas, Texas. Learn more here: mennoniteusa.org/hopeforthefuture View the PDF here: mennoniteusa.org/hftf24-savedate

Menno Snapshots

Cyneatha Millsaps, executive director of Mennonite Women USA, reflects on how gun violence has effected the country, her community and her own family in a blog for Mennonite Church USA. Read her reflection here: mennoniteusa.org/spiritually-emotionally-bankrupt

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: SADRA (Southern African Development and Reconstruction Agency) Conflict Transformation is a Mennonite Mission Network partner that offers a Christian response to injustice in South Africa. Pray for the conflict mediators, who train members of their communities to de-escalate situations that could lead to violence.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for generous financial support for WDC congregations, as they seek to meet annual budget goals for mission and ministry.

View the worship service from December 10, 2023

press here for the video

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
December 10, 2023
Second Sunday of Advent: Peace

Prelude—O Come, All Ye Faithful (VT 214); Ding Dong! Merrily on High (Dobrinski);
Coventry Carol (Eithun), Lucy Burch, Flute; Amen, Amen (Lamb)–Chancel Bell Choir, Verlene Garber, director; Members of the Chancel Bells: Lucy Burch, Suzanne Burch, Ben Lichti, Marlene Ewert, Jane Schmidt, Janet Lubbers, Brenda Turner, Carol Gebrand, Nathan Garber, Ron Garber, Gyles Garber, Caleb Garber

*Advent Candle Hymn— Hope Is a Candle, verses 1-2—VT 211

Advent Candle Lighting—Lucy and Faith Burch

*Advent Litany—Peace— VT 916

Welcome and Prayer—Adam Robb

*Hymn—Comfort, Comfort, O My People—VT 212

Children’s Conversation—Esther Koontz

Scripture Reading—Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13—Suzanne, Lucy, and Faith Burch

Sermon—A God of Peace—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—Unexpected and Mysterious—VT 229

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming—VT 216

Benediction

Postlude—Variations on In Dulci Jubilo (Theodore Beck)—Karen Schlabaugh

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Keyboard—Karen Schlabaugh
Audio visual—John Thiesen

Announcements for December 10–17, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND WORSHIP SERVICE FOR DECEMBER 10, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
December 10, 2023
Second Sunday of Advent: Peace

There are poinsettias all around the church for this Christmas season. To see who donated these poinsettias and who they are in honor or memory of press here.

This Week at BCMC: December 10—17, 2023

Sun., Dec. 10, 2023—Second Sunday of Advent
9:30 a.m. Worship   Brief congregational meeting after worship
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation
Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/NqmMP6oZAcY?feature=share


The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation—Intergenerational class (fellowship hall);   High School (Room 24)    Adult Classes: Agape (nursery); Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21) Seekers (Rm 28)
Mon., Dec. 11, 2023
5:30 p.m.   Faith Formation Commission meeting at Mary Ellen Hodge’s home
Tues., Dec. 12, 2023
9 a.m.        Womens’ Fellowship Executive Board meeting in Fellowship Hall
11 a.m.      Staff Meeting
12 noon     Mid Kansas Investment Club meeting in Fellowship Hall
7:15 p.m.   Pastoral Search Committee meeting in Room 14
Wed., Dec. 13, 2023
7 p.m.        Rehearsal for Christmas worship service in Fellowship Hall
7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal in the sanctuary
Thurs., Dec. 14, 2023
9 a.m.        Community Playschool Christmas celebration in Fellowship Hall
Sun., Dec. 17, 2023—Third Sunday of Advent
9:30 a.m.   Worship with sermon by Roger Neufeld Smith; music by
Chancel Choir; 10:45 a.m. Faith Formation

Preparing for Worship
As we gather for worship each Sunday in the sanctuary, the Worship Commission invites and encourages us to become quiet as the prelude centers us for worship. Conversation is welcome and encouraged in the Gathering Place outside of the sanctuary during the prelude. We invite all who are present in the sanctuary to find their seats and quietly
participate in preparing for worship.

The church board is calling a brief special congregational meeting following worship in the sanctuary, Sunday, December 10, 2023 to act on the following board recommendation:
Does BCMC approve the initiation of a pledge drive for the purpose of soliciting funds and support for the solar project? The details of a pledge drive will be worked out if an initial vote indicates significant support.
The purpose of this vote is to determine the level of support from the congregation for a roof-top solar installation on our church. A review of the solar project as presented at the September congregational meeting and in two subsequent Sunday School hour meetings was distributed to mailboxes the week of November 27.

Roger’s Whereabouts : Roger is currently in Topeka. He will return to Newton this coming Wednesday, December 13 and will preach at BCMC on Sunday, December 17. Whether he’s in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone call (785-220-1968).

The library’s theme for the month of December is Advent/Christmas. We have quite a number of fiction/nonfiction choices for all ages. You might want to consider checking out books for visiting family members. We have so many good choices. Also, due to the Advent/Christmas Everybody books in the children’s section of the library, all the puzzles are now located in the library on the west wall. There are some wonderful choices for holiday family time. A suggested donation of $5 for a puzzle helps support the supplies needed to run the library.
Also on the west wall are a number of new books that were recently purchased through our budget and sale at Faith and LIfe Bookstore. Come check out the new selections in all genres. A brief write up of the new books is available by the library computer.   Happy Holiday reading!
— Library Committee

BCMC Offering for December 3, 2023: General Fund $8,964.33; Plant Fund $200; Gen Fund 2024 $25; Caring Fund $1,267; Library Reserve Fund $17; Kitchen Fund $21; Solar Fund $5,000; Gladys Niles Memorial $100.

Save the date, January 28, 2024 for Congregational Meeting and Soup Luncheon prior to the congregational meeting and the next fun-filled congregation and youth activity!

The bulletin covers for Advent are used by permission from Salt Project, https://www.saltproject.org/

BCMC Women’s Fellowship Executive Board meets Tuesday, December 12 at 9 a.m. in Room 14.

Save the Date – Sponsored by BCMC Women’s Fellowship
“Prairie Bronze Ensemble Bell Choir” will perform Christmas music at BCMC Tuesday, December 19 at 7 p.m. More details will follow next week.

BCMC Women’s Fellowship Birthday Calendars are available from WF
Executive Board members:
Lois Brubacher 620-837-3281; Lois Preheim     316-804-4713
Brenda Turner 316-283-8131;   Janet Voth        316-283-1922
The suggested donation price is $10. This calendar project is designed to help build community and the donation is used to support WF Ministries.

Mark Stucky, daughter Marike Stucky and son Matt Stucky would like to thank the BCMC community for your support after Gladys and Gail’s passing. Cards, emails, texts and hugs were appreciated a great deal. Your kind words sustained us through this difficult journey.

Registration for the upcoming Kansas Mennonite Men’s Chorus season is at hand. Please consider joining. Some of you are already on the list and we certainly encourage new members. For further details please contact Joe Peters. BCMC Contact call or text (316) 288-7031 or email joelilp@cox.net

Congregants are welcome to bring Christmas snacks to share for our coffee time in the gathering place after the worship service on December 24. There will be no Sunday School on December 24.

The church office will be closed during the week between Christmas and December 30.

New BCMC directories are available. There is a box in the Gathering Place between the mailboxes and two boxes in the south entrance on the glass table.

The Deacons Commission is working on a “Thinking of You” campaign for people who are isolated due to health concerns. For the next few Sundays, we will have a table at the back of the sanctuary with pages for your comments to members of our church whom we haven’t been able to see for a while. Please stop by and write a short greeting or sign your name to let them know we are thinking about them. For those of you who are unable to attend worship but can stop by the church during the week, these letters will be in the library during the week for anyone to write a note before we send them out. Thank you!
— Deacon Commission

Creation Care: While you are active in your Christmas shopping please remember to save plastic bags for recycling. We have collected 345 pounds with a goal of 1,000 pounds. — Vern and Jane Goering

You are invited to the Annual Christmas Brass Choir Concert at Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church, Sundayt, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m., 1304 K-15 Hwy, Goessel for some Good Old Fashioned Christmas Festive Music and Cheer!

Mennonite Central Committee Material Resources Center in North Newton is critically low on inventory: An MCC kit cannot be distributed until each item for the kit is assembled, but some supplies in the Material Resources Center are so low that kits cannot be processed for shipping. You can help by filling the following needs: new infant onesies and sleepers (6-12 month sizes); new bath towels (dark colored, light to medium weight); new hand towels (dark colored). Locally, MCC distributes prisoner care and returning citizen care kits, for those kits we currently need: men’s shirts (sizes XL, 2XL, 3XL — any color) and men’s underwear (sizes 2XL, 3XL — any color). Buy online and ship it to MCC or bring items to MCC in North Newton (121 E. 30th St, North Newton). Questions: contact brociamueller@mcc.org or 316.283.2720. A full list of MCC kit contents can be found at mcc.org/kits.

Bethel College Announcements
(Sun., Dec. 10) – 38th annual Lighting of the Green, 8 p.m. on the Bethel College campus

Last week to view the annual Senior Art Exhibit I in the Regier Gallery and the Drama Lab, both in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College, featuring the work of Rachel Geyer (lab) and Edel Miller (gallery). Exhibit closes Thurs., Dec. 14. Gallery hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays. To see “Solace in the Story,” e-mail rachelegeyer@bethelks.edu for an appointment.

Kauffman Museum at Bethel College invites you to visit during the holidays. Open hours are Tues.-Fri. 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and weekends 1:30-4:30 p.m. (closed Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve). The current special exhibit is “Climate and Energy Central,” along with the permanent exhibits “Of Land and People,” “Mirror of the Martyrs” and “Mennonite Immigrant Furniture.” The museum store is also open during those hours, with books, games, art and other gift items for sale (see kauffmanmuseum.org/museum-store/).

Mennonite Action’s 2nd Mass Meeting – Tuesday, December 12th at 7pm

At Mennonite Action’s last virtual meeting, more than 850 Mennonites from Canada, the US, and across the world joined together to grieve the ongoing violence in Palestine, to call for a ceasefire and an end to the occupation of Palestine, and to prepare to take nonviolent action together.

On December 12th, Mennonite Action will share updates about the work that has taken place since the last meeting. Participants will practice singing together in preparation for public actions on December 19th and hear from speakers who will remind us that our faith as Mennonites and Christians compels us to act.

MennoPIN and WDC Israel-Palestine Taskgroup both encourage your participation. Mennonite Action will continue to host events into the future, and BCMC will not be giving notice for all of them. If you want to sign up for the call on December 12 and stay connected with Mennonite Action, please sign up here: mennoniteaction.org/call

Hesston College Announcements

Melva Kauffman Lecture Series: Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery

This year the Melva Kauffman Lecture Series is pleased to host Mark Charles who will present on the topic of Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery. Charles is the son of an American woman (of Dutch heritage) and a Navajo man. He teaches with insight into the complexities of American history regarding race, culture and faith in order to help forge a path of healing and conciliation for the nation. The public is invited to hear his presentation at Hesston Mennonite Church Sunday, January 21, 2024, at 7 p.m.

Take a Bible Class at Hesston College

Interested in auditing a Bible course beginning in January? This spring semester Hesston College has opportunities to audit Biblical Literature, Jesus and the Gospels, and Peacemaking and Justice courses. Acceptance is based upon availability of open seating. If you are interested in enrolling in or auditing a Bible course, please contact amber.hett@hesston.edu before Jan. 9 to register. Spring courses are in session Jan. 10 to May 9. Be sure and ask about discounted rates for senior citizens.

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

Camp Mennoscah Announcements
Interviews for the 2024 Summer Staff start over the Christmas/semester break! This allows more in-person interviews, which often are a benefit to the applicant. Complete your application for Summer Staff now, especially those who are usually out-of-town, to give Camp Mennoscah staff the best chance to talk with you while you’re in the Newton-ish area. Summer staff must be 18 years old or older. The staff leadership positions receiving stipends are naturalist, crafts leader, lifeguard, grounds/maintenance, music leader, and office/media. Applications will be accepted until all positions are filled. The 2024 summer camp season begins with orientation for summer-long positions on June 2 and ends August 4. The application for 2024 Summer Staff at Camp Mennoscah can be found here.

Other events and happenings:

Find your work gloves and boots! The Camp Mennoscah board will be contacting volunteers to work on the Retreat Center HVAC project, likely to start early in 2024. Having volunteers help on a daily basis will save a substantial amount in the overall cost. The project includes not only the HVAC system, but also code deficiencies in electrical and plumbing, for example. It’s going to be exciting!
A huge thank you to the Camp Mennoscah board, staff and family members for helping remove decorations on the walls of the Retreat Center. The walls look bare, but the atmosphere is one of anticipation for the renovation of parts of the building. There will be more work days ahead for everyone to join in. Keep your eyes open!

For Mennonite Central Committee “In Touch” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

The Mennonite Church USA Executive Board strengthened key relationships and discussed creative strategies for convention and revitalization at the first Executive Board meeting of the biennium Oct. 18-20, 2023, in Cleveland, Ohio. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/eb-strengthens

Menno Snapshots

Karla Stoltzfus Detweiler, climate justice coordinator for Mennonite Church USA, reflects on how to respond to climate doom with resistance and resilience, after attending Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary’s Rooted and Grounded conference. Read her reflection here: mennoniteusa.org/path-through-climate-doom

Beryl Jantzi, Everence director of stewardship education, explores what “mammon” might mean in the New Testament and why Jesus states that a person cannot serve both God and mammon. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/god-and-mammon

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Alfonsina and José Oyanguren, who have walked alongside Toba-Qom churches and communities in the Argentine Chaco since 2004. Pray for them as they provide continuity in long-term relationships and encourage the preservation of Indigenous languages and cultures.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC’s Ministerial Leadership Commission as they meet this week, and as they provide support and resources for credentialed ministers in our conference.

View the worship service from December 3, 2023

press here for the video

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
December 3, 2023
First Sunday of Advent: Hope

Prelude—Cynthia Neufeld Smith
(As the prelude music plays, you are encouraged to keep conversation to a minimum)

*Advent Candle Hymn—Hope Is a Candle— VT 211— Congregation sing verse 1 only; Susie Swartley, flute

Advent Candle Lighting—Judy Harder

*Advent Litany—Hope VT 916

Welcome—(Land Acknowledgement) and Prayer—Adam Robb

*Hymn—Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus—VT 218

Children’s Conversation—Christmas Tree Ornaments—Jill Robb

Anthem—Chancel Choir

Scripture Reading—1 Corinthians 1:3-9—Judy Harder

Sermon—The Gift of Hope—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—Oh How Shall I Receive Thee—VT 215

Communion—Come to the Table of Grace—VT 461

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Hark! the Glad Sound!—VT 217

Benediction

Postlude—Cynthia Neufeld Smith

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

Announcements for December 3–10, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND WORSHIP SERVICE FOR DECEMBER 3, 2023

To livestream the worship service:
On Sunday morning, around 9:20, 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/nDLhIx3OMHc?feature=share

This Week at BCMC: December 3—10, 2023
Sun., Dec. 3, 2023—First Sunday of Advent
9:30 a.m. Worship   10:45 a.m. Faith Formation
Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/nDLhIx3OMHc?feature=share

The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation—Intergenerational class (fellowship hall);   High School (Room 24)    Adult Classes: Agape (nursery); Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21) Seekers (Rm 28)
Mon., Dec. 4, 2023
6:30 p.m.      Gifts Discernment Committee meeting in the chapel
7:30-9 p.m. “Messiah” Sing Through Rehearsal in the sanctuary
Wed., Dec. 6, 2023
11 a.m.      Singalong to Christmas portions of Handel’s Messiah with chamber orchestra and soloists, in the sanctuary. Scores will be provided.
6 p.m.         Anointing Service for Elizabeth Raid in the sanctuary
7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal in the sanctuary
Thurs., Dec. 7, 2023
6:30 p.m. Chancel Bell rehearsal in Room B7
7 p.m.        Church Board meeting in Room 14
7:30 p.m.   Hospitality Commission meeting in fellowship hall
Sun., Dec. 10, 2023—Second Sunday of Advent
9:30 a.m.   Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz; music by Chancel Bells;
Brief congregational meeting after worship
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation

Birthday calendars – with photos of BCMC by Weldon Schloneger – are available in the back of the sanctuary for a suggested donation of $10. Checks may be written to BCMC with Women’s Fellowship written in the memo line. These birthday calendars are perfect stocking stuffers and work well for keeping track of birthdays of family and friends.

The Deacons Commission is working on a “Thinking of You” campaign for people who are isolated due to health concerns. For the next few Sundays, we will have a table at the back of the sanctuary with pages for your comments to members of our church whom we haven’t been able to see for a while. Please stop by and write a short greeting or sign your name to let them know we are thinking about them. For those of you who are unable to attend worship but can stop by the church during the week, these letters will be in the library during the week for anyone to write a note before we send them out. Thank you!
— Deacon Commission

Caring Fund Contribution Opportunity Sunday December 3. 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 Bethel College Mennonite Church and designated “caring fund.” Everence also provides some matching funds each year. Besides the financial help that can and has been provided to our own members, in the past year contributions from the Caring Fund have been made to our local Salvation Army, New Hope Shelter, Safe Hope, Harvest of Love, the Community Playschool, Peace Connections Circle of Hope, Newton Community Foundation Slate Creek Elementary inclusive playground, USD 373 student meals for low income, and several individuals to help with housing rent and utilities. Thank you for your continued support and contributions during this holiday season.
– BCMC Deacon Commission

Anointing Service for Elizabeth Raid
You are welcome to join in an anointing service for Elizabeth Raid and her husband, Gary Franz, in the Bethel College Mennonite Church sanctuary on Wednesday, December 6 at 6 p.m. Elizabeth has been living with pancreatic cancer for a number of years and seeks God’s healing through word, touch, prayer, and the presence of loved ones. As God’s beloved community, may we find support and healing together. If there are others that are connected to Elizabeth and Gary who may not receive this announcement, please pass the invitation on to them. Everyone is welcome.

The church board is calling a brief special congregational meeting following worship in the sanctuary December 10, 2023 to act on the following board recommendation:
Does BCMC approve the initiation of a pledge drive for the purpose of soliciting funds and support for the solar project? The details of a pledge drive will be worked out if an initial vote indicates significant support.
The purpose of this vote is to determine the level of support from the congregation for a roof-top solar installation on our church. A review of the solar project as presented at the September congregational meeting and in two subsequent Sunday School hour meetings was distributed to mailboxes the week of November 27.

Welcoming Statement Draft
The Inclusion Task Group along with the Church Board has been working on an updated welcoming statement for BCMC that includes more open and affirming language. If you have questions or comments regarding the updated welcoming statement, please contact Nathan Koontz by December 8. We hope to vote on an updated statement at our congregational meeting on January 28, 2024. Below is the updated version.

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 without regard to race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, economic status, marital status, and age, any and all who enter into fellowship with us.
—
Nathan Koontz (he, him)
Pastor for Community and Worship
Bethel College Mennonite Church

Creation Care: While you are active in your Christmas shopping please remember to save plastic bags for recycling. We have collected 345 pounds with a goal of 1,000 pounds. — Vern Goering

BCMC Offering for November 26, 2023: General Fund $3,150; Plant Fund $50; Sr Hi Youth $100; Gen Fund 2024 $1,300; Caring Fund $300; Flower Fund $110; Women’s Fellowship $286.

Roger’s Whereabouts
Roger, and his wife Cynthia, will be traveling to Newton on Friday night (12/1). Cynthia will play an Advent organ prelude for worship (12/3) beginning at 9:15. Roger will be staying in Newton until Thursday evening. Whether he’s in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone call (785-220-1968).

Save the date, January 28, 2024 for Congregational Meeting and Soup Luncheon prior to the congregational meeting and the next fun-filled congregation and youth activity!

You are invited to the Annual Christmas Brass Choir Concert at Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church, Sunday, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m., 1304 K-15 Hwy, Goessel for some Good Old Fashioned Christmas Festive Music and Cheer!

Mennonite Central Committee Material Resources Center in North Newton is critically low on inventory: An MCC kit cannot be distributed until each item for the kit is assembled, but some supplies in the Material Resources Center are so low that kits cannot be processed for shipping. You can help by filling the following needs: new infant onesies and sleepers (6-12 month sizes); new bath towels (dark colored, light to medium weight); new hand towels (dark colored). Locally, MCC distributes prisoner care and returning citizen care kits, for those kits we currently need: men’s shirts (sizes XL, 2XL, 3XL — any color) and men’s underwear (sizes 2XL, 3XL — any color). Buy online and ship it to MCC or bring items to MCC in North Newton (121 E. 30th St, North Newton). Questions: contact brociamueller@mcc.org or 316.283.2720. A full list of MCC kit contents can be found at mcc.org/kits.

Bethel College Announcements
· Weds., Dec. 6 – Singalong to Christmas portions of Handel’s Messiah, 11 a.m., with chamber orchestra and soloists, Bethel College Mennonite Church. Scores provided.
· Thurs., Dec. 7 – Visit Senior Art Exhibit 1, 5:30-7:30 p.m. in the Regier Art Gallery and the Drama Lab in the Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Artists will be present: “Crowded Table,” pottery by Edel Miller (gallery), and “Solace in the Story,” book art and theater art by Rachel Geyer (lab). Hours of Regier Gallery and Drama Lab are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
· Thurs., Dec. 7 – Gala Jazz, directed by Joel Boettger, 7:30 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center
· Sun., Dec. 10 – 38th annual Lighting of the Green , 8 p.m. on the Bethel College campus

Announcements from Hesston College

December 1 to 3 – Prairie Lights at Dyck Arboretum

Experience the quiet beauty of Kansas in winter: dormant native grasses shifting in the wind, lights reflecting in the pond and leafless trees lit from below like living sculptures. Observing tens of thousands of twinkle lights adorning the arboretum path and illuminating our grounds is a great way to kick off the holiday season and find renewed appreciation for the prairie landscape around us. Learn more at dyckarboretum.org/events.

December 2 – “A Christmas Carol” Performance

Hesston College Performing Arts will ring in the holiday season with a performance of “A Christmas Carol” on Saturday, December 2. The performance will be held in the Hesston Mennonite Church at 7 p.m. Admission is free and refreshments will be served after the performance with a special photo opportunity with Scrooge and Tiny Tim. You can watch the livestream of the production at hesston.edu/livestream.

For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here

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

For Anabaptist Disabilities Network press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Mennonite Church USA issued a statement on the Israel-Hamas War on Nov. 15. The statement laments the loss of life and stands on our shared Anabaptist faith values in a call for a ceasefire. Read it here: mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/ceasefire/

The Center for Community Justice in Elkhart, Indiana, honored Lorraine Stutzman Amstutz, Mennonite Church USA’s denominational minister for Peace & Justice, for her work in restorative justice at an event celebrating the 45th anniversary of its Victim-Offender Reconciliation Program (VORP). Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/ccj-honors

Menno Snapshots

This fall, several Mennonite Church USA congregations from Northwest Ohio worked with RAWtools and Mennonite Central Committee to host a community event about gun safety. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/gun-safety-ohio

Amy Yoder McGloughlin, pastor at Frazer Mennonite Church, shares how gun violence and the death of a young neighbor in a drive-by shooting created lasting trauma for her and her family. Read about how leaning into that pain helps her cope: mennoniteusa.org/lean-in

Harvey County Advent Calendar
A team of folks in Harvey County recently designed an Advent calendar themed around our community, and we are sharing it with others for free.

You can read about the effort in the Harvey County Now (“County Advent calendar hopes to spread more than information.”) Community Creative Services in Newton headed up the design.
The daily activities include reflective exercises to foster gratitude, encouragement to practice generosity, and opportunities to connect to others. It’s designed to be inclusive, so almost every activity is free, and each day includes at least one free activity. Examples include attending the Lighting of the Green at Bethel College, participating in the Audubon Society’s Christmas Bird Count, or watching the earliest sunset of the year. Other events invite reflection on the themes of hope, joy, love and peace; listening to Christmas hymns or poems; and making small donations to local charities. Rebecca Barrett-Fox, Newton, did the writing and area churches and organizations sponsored the publication.

Here is the announcement from the team who created the Advent calendar:
A group of community volunteers has created a local Advent calendar for area churches to enjoy. Each day, you’ll be invited to join in an activity that promotes kindness, gratitude, or connection to others. Pick up a copy at one of the sponsors listed on the calendar, or download to use digitally or print. You can find it here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GTOQxg28x34oLj7Ku-dz_s8-siSWQO42/view?fbclid=IwAR144qOdFMCKHHKdHxGZDXNCBw3hBir5XBZYdEC5dkWQaksl-BwxtUAGlAM

— Pastor Roger Neufeld Smith

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Pray for the participants in Mennonite Mission Network’s Tucson, Arizona, Mennonite Voluntary Service unit — Nely Cotuc, Hannah Nuest, Ally Weaver, Magdalena Wenger and Deborah Yoder — as they help extend the ministries of their host congregation, Shalom Mennonite Fellowship, through welcoming immigrants, promoting literacy and working to protect the environment.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for the WDC Resource Library’s creative resources and ideas for Advent and Christmas, and pray for congregational leaders who plan worship and special activities during this season.

View the worship service for November 26, 2023

press here for the video

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
November 26, 2023

Prelude—Cello Suite No. 4 (J.S. Bach) and Bourrée (Transcribed by Alamiro Giampieri) and Justin Mathis, clarinet

Christ Candle Lighting

Welcome and Prayer—Margaret Toews

*Hymn—Sing to the Lord of Harvest—VT 122

Children’s Conversation—Jim Robb

Special Music—Romance from Five Bagatelles for Clarinet and Piano (by Gerald Finzi)

Justin Mathis, clarinet; Karen Schlabaugh, piano

Scripture Reading – Psalm 103:1-8,13-18; Philippians 1:1-7, 4:4-7 Richard Friesen and Dorothy Nickel Friesen

Sermon—Radical Gratitude—Roger Neufeld Smith

*Hymn—Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah—VT 606

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—God, Whose Giving—VT 745

People with November birthdays come forward for a blessing, please bring a hymnal

Benediction

Postlude—Postlude on Beata nobis gaudia (Robert Powell)—Karen Schlabaugh

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

Keyboard—Karen Schlabaugh

Announcements for November 26–December 3, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR NOVEMBER 26, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
November 26, 2023
Thanksgiving Sunday

Prelude—Cello Suite No. 4 (J.S. Bach) and Bourrée (Transcribed by Alamiro Giampieri) and Justin Mathis, clarinet

Christ Candle Lighting

Welcome and Prayer—Margaret Toews

*Hymn—Sing to the Lord of Harvest—VT 122

Children’s Conversation—Jim Robb

Special Music—Romance from Five Bagatelles for Clarinet and Piano (by Gerald Finzi)
Justin Mathis, clarinet; Karen Schlabaugh, piano

Scripture Reading – Psalm 103:1-8,13-18; Philippians 1:1-7, 4:4-7 Richard Friesen and Dorothy Nickel Friesen

Sermon—Radical Gratitude—Roger Neufeld Smith

*Hymn—Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah—VT 606

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—God, Whose Giving—VT 745
People with November birthdays come forward for a blessing,
please bring a hymnal

Benediction

Postlude—Postlude on Beata nobis gaudia (Robert Powell)—Karen Schlabaugh

*You are invited to stand     VT—Voices Together     Audio visual— John Thiesen
Keyboard—Karen Schlabaugh

The Kobzar, a folk minstrel who was both an entertainer and sage, was an institution in the life of the Ukrainian people. This Dancing Kobzar sculpture, part of the John Klassen art exhibit now on display in the Gathering Place, is on loan from Cynthia Neufeld Smith.

We welcome clarinetist Justin Mathis to worship with us Sunday, November 26.
Instructor of clarinet at Colorado Christian University and principal clarinetist for Denver Pops Orchestra, Justin is married to Lyn and Naomi Krause’s daughter, Cheri.

Roger’s Whereabouts :  Roger will be driving back to Topeka this afternoon. He will be back in Newton next Sunday for worship (his wife Cynthia will be playing the organ prelude!). He will be in Newton until Thursday night, December 7. Whether he’s in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone call (785-220-1968).

Pastor Nathan Koontz is on vacation from Nov. 22-26.

Thank you to Susie Swartley and Kathy Stucky for the Thanksgiving
display on the steps of the Chancel Area.

BCMC Offering for November 19, 2023:  General Fund $6,685.33; Community Play School $250; Wed. Night Supper $282.50; Plant Fund $608.33; Gen Fund 2024 $10,025; Caring Fund $138.29; Flower Fund $150; Kitchen Fund $23.

This Week at BCMC: November 26—December 3, 2023
Sun., November 26, 2023—Thanksgiving Sunday
9:30 a.m. Worship   10:45 a.m. Faith Formation
Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/YKjS_6uoRqo?feature=share

The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation—Intergenerational class (Fellowship Hall);   High School (Room 24)    Adult Classes: Agape (nursery); Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21) Seekers (Rm 28)
Mon., November 27, 2023
10 a.m. Library Committee meeting in Room 14
Wed., November 29, 2023
6:30 p.m. Chancel Bell rehearsal in Room B7
7 p.m.        Abuse Prevention and Response Committee meeting in Room 14
7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal in the sanctuary
Thurs., November 30, 2023
7 p.m.         Deacon Commission meeting in Room 14
Sun., Dec. 3, 2023—First Sunday of Advent
9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz; music by Chancel Choir; communion will be served; 10:45 a.m. Faith Formation

The bcmcXpress is lagging a bit. As of Monday Nov. 20, we had 84 intents for a total dollar amount pledged of about $258,000. That’s a lot of money, but it is less than half of the proposed budget. The challenge is to get that total up. We know that many people have not pledged. Please consider your obligation and make a pledge. If you have already pledged consider raising the amount. BCMC has met these challenges in the past and we will again, but it means we all need to pull together. Finance Committee

For the online form press here.

If you plan to give via the electronic transfer system in 2024, please make a request via email to BCMC Financial Manager Michael Claassen – treasurer@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org
This is separate from the online giving option found on the website.

For the 2024 Budget Information for Bethel College Mennonite Church (the budget narrative) click the button. If you would like a paper copy of the 2024 Budget Narrative, you can pick one up from the ledge in the Gathering Place.

2024 Narrative Budget

A Celebration of Life for Gladys Niles and Gail Niles Stucky is scheduled for 4 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 26, at Shalom Mennonite Church, Newton. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor Gladys’ and Gail’s memories are encourage to make a gift to support Bethel College, Bethel College Mennonite Church, or Shalom Mennonite Church.

Kauffman Museum will celebrate Museum Store Sunday, November 26. Museum members will receive 20% off their entire Store purchase and non-members will receive 10% off. More than 2,100 Museum Stores representing all 50 states, 25 countries and 5 continents take part in this event. For more information about and to find participating stores, go to museumstoresunday.org/museum-store-sunday
Kauffman Museum’s normal business hours are Sunday 1:30-4:30 p.m.

Antiracism Analysis Training
You are invited to join a 2 1/2 day training covering topics such as Racial and cultural identity; White privilege; Institutions and institutional racism; Racism as a systemic reality, and more.
Training is January 12-14, 2024 at the Newton REC Center. There is a poster on the BCMC bulletin board. For the poster you can also click here.

The cost of the training is $300 prior to December 1 and $350 afterwards. If you are interested in receiving scholarship money to help reimburse registration costs, please contact the church office at office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org. The Witness Commission strongly encourages your participation and is happy to answer any questions you may have. Please contact the church office to be in contact with someone from the Witness Commission.

To register click here.

The church board is calling a brief special congregational meeting following worship in the sanctuary December 10, 2023 to act on the following board recommendation:
Does BCMC approve the initiation of a pledge drive for the purpose of soliciting funds and support for the solar project? The details of a pledge drive will be worked out if an initial vote indicates significant support.
The purpose of this vote is to determine the level of support from the congregation for a roof-top solar installation on our church. A review of the solar project as presented at the September congregational meeting and in two subsequent SS hour meetings will be distributed to mailboxes the week of November 27.

For a review of information on the solar panels press here

For your calendars

December 24, 2023 — there will be no Sunday School — Worship will start at 10 a.m.
December 31, 2023 — there will be no Sunday School — Worship will start at 10 a.m.
Save the date, January 28, 2024 for Congregational Meeting and Soup Luncheon prior to the congregational meeting and the next fun-filled congregation and youth activity!

Bethel College Announcements
· Fri., Dec. 1 – Senior Art Exhibit I opens in the Regier Art Gallery and the Drama Lab, both in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College, featuring the work of Rachel Geyer (lab) and Edel Miller (gallery). Hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
· Friday, Dec. 1 — Student-directed one-act plays, 7:30 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Please note: May contain adult language and themes and may not be suitable for children.
· Sat., Dec. 2 – Kauffman Museum bird walk, 8 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).
· Sat., Dec. 2 – Five Places of Christmas, featuring Kauffman Museum and the Bethel College Women’s Association at Goerz House, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Other locations are Carriage Factory Gallery, Harvey County Historical Museum and Warkentin House, all in Newton.
· All bakers and craft makers are invited to make items for 5 Places of Christmas Sat., December 2, at Goerz House, Bethel College. Bethel College Women’s Association will again be selling baked goods, candy, craft items and poinsettias. Your home-baked cookies, zwiebach, cinnamon rolls, peppernuts and poppyseed rolls are always great sellers. This year we are especially asking for homemade candies such as peanut clusters, peanut butter balls, peanut brittle or fudge. Please bring your items to Goerz House on Friday, December 1, from 1-4 p.m. or on Saturday from 9-10 a.m.
· Weds., Dec. 6 – Singalong to Christmas portions of Handel’s Messiah, 11 a.m., with chamber orchestra and soloists, At Bethel College Mennonite Church. Scores will be provided.
· Thurs., Dec. 7 – Gala Jazz, directed by Joel Boettger, 7:30 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center
· Sun., Dec. 10 – 37th annual Lighting of the Green , 8 p.m. on the Bethel
College campus

Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Announcements
· An Evening of Service at MCC on Giving Tuesday, Nov. 28 from 6:30-8 p.m. at MCC in North Newton. Bring new dark colored hand towels to pack hygiene kits. MCC partner Offender Victim Ministries will be here with supplies to write holiday greetings to prisoners, we’ll have comforters to tie and delicious snacks to enjoy. A great way to give on Giving Tuesday.
· SAVE THE DATE – The MCC Comforter Blitz will be March 4-6 in Yoder.
· Mennonite Central Committee responding to the Palestine and Israel conflict – As conflict has escalated in the region, MCC laments the violence and mourns all lives lost in Palestine and Israel. MCC remains committed to a just peace for all, and we invite you to join us in praying for an end to the violence. MCC is planning an emergency response to the current crisis with existing partners. Our response will focus on the humanitarian needs in Gaza, given the vulnerability of the population and lack of resources available to families. MCC’s work will build on previous responses to the ongoing conflict, including the distribution of food and bedding. We are also planning to offer trauma healing support and housing reconstruction. Donate online at mcc.org/Palestine-Israel or call 1-888-563-4676.
· MCC Material Resources Center in North Newton critically low on inventory: An MCC kit cannot be distributed until each item for the kit is assembled, but some supplies in the Material Resources Center are so low that kits cannot be processed for shipping. You can help by filling the following needs: new infant onesies and sleepers (6-12 month sizes); new bath towels (dark colored, light to medium weight); new hand towels (dark colored). Locally, MCC distributes prisoner care and returning citizen care kits, for those kits we currently need: men’s shirts (sizes XL, 2XL, 3XL — any color) and men’s underwear (sizes 2XL, 3XL — any color). Buy online and ship it to MCC or bring items to MCC in North Newton (121 E. 30th St, North Newton). Questions are always welcome, please contact brociamueller@mcc.orgor 316.283.2720. A full list of MCC kit contents can be found at mcc.org/kits.

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

Peace Connections is 40 years old! You are invited to an Open House Celebrating Peace Connections 40 years on November 30, 6 to 8 p.m. at 209 S. Pine Street, Newton. Share S’mores and Hot Chocolate while hearing stories of Peace Connections’ past impact, current programs, and their future story.

M&M Project Update: End of Year GIving!

Please consider giving to Camp Mennoscah and/or the M&M Project on Giving Tuesday – this year on November 28 – or as part of your end-of-the-year giving. It’s not that we aren’t thankful for all you’ve done – but there is a lot to be done at Camp, and we already know that God has touched your hearts and called many to be part of Camp’s mission. Let’s not just finish the M&M Project strong – let’s finish the year strong!

Thank you for being a part of Camp Mennoscah! 75 years – There is still so much ahead!

Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp Announcements· Scrapbook Retreat, Jan. 26-28 is your opportunity to create paper or digital photo books and share ideas and good conversation with other scrapbook participants. Lisa Longacher will return as our program resource for the retreat and help facilitate a variety of activities. Please come for retreat and community in God’s creation here at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp. Register online (www.rmmc.org) and save a space to join in.
· Join us for Men’s Retreat March 1-3, 2024 to spend time with God and fellow men in the beauty of creation with worship times, foosball, ping pong, chess, human curling, snowshoeing, musical jam sessions, great fellowship and more! The Friday before Men’s Retreat, participants have a tradition of tackling necessary projects at camp. This day of volunteering helps RMMC better serve campers and guests. Register @ rmmc.org.
· Mark your calendars now for Women’s Retreat at RMMC, March 8-10, 2024. Come to the mountains for a weekend away. Retreat, hike, explore, rest, and fellowship. This weekend is for women ages 18 and older to come together. Theme to be announced! Visit rmmc.org to register.

For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
For Mennonite World Conference “Info” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News from around the world” press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Menno Snapshots

As part of Mennonite Church USA’s latest Learn, Pray, Join initiative, End Gun Violence, Jonny Rashid, pastor for West Philadelphia Mennonite Fellowship, a member church of Allegheny Mennonite Conference, shared a prayer of lament about gun violence. Read it here: mennoniteusa.org/prayer-to-end-gun-violence

Anabaptist musicians from a variety of countries met this spring in Canada for a songwriting retreat sponsored by Anabaptist Worship Network. George Makinto, director of worship at Los Angeles (California) Faith Chapel, recounts how he experienced hope through the gathering of such a diverse group of people worshipping God together. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/hope-ringing-out

Michael George, a Palestinian-American and facilitator of MennoPIN’s “Twinning with Gaza” Initiative, a Mennonite Church USA affinity group, laments the recent attacks from Hamas and ongoing war in Israel/Palestine. Read it here: mennoniteusa.org/lament-for-gaza

Rachel Ringenberg Miller, denominational minister for ministerial leadership for Mennonite Church USA, reminds us that Anabaptist congregational leadership requires collaboration, from the leaders and from the congregation. The process to make changes takes time, but the inclusive nature of the process is worth it. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/collaboration-anabaptist-leadershipMennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Jonah and Memee Yang began serving with Mennonite Mission Network in September. Pray for Jonah as he teaches Hmong and Thai students in Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary’s Journey Program and for Memee as she offers Sister Care seminars. The Yangs live in Minnesota and will travel to Thailand twice each year.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for chaplains and other ministers in WDC who offer pastoral care for members of our communities experiencing pain, loneliness, loss or grief, particularly during this holiday season.

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Jonah and Memee Yang began serving with Mennonite Mission Network in September. Pray for Jonah as he teaches Hmong and Thai students in Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary’s Journey Program and for Memee as she offers Sister Care seminars. The Yangs live in Minnesota and will travel to Thailand twice each year.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for chaplains and other ministers in WDC who offer pastoral care for members of our communities experiencing pain, loneliness, loss or grief, particularly during this holiday season.

View the worship service for November 19, 2023

Press here for the video

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
November 19, 2023
Twenty Fifth Sunday After Pentecost

Prelude—Little Prelude and Fugue in C (JS Bach); Now Thank We All Our God (Bach/Fox)—
Will Wiebe-Friesen

Christ Candle Lighting

Welcome and Prayer—Elizabeth Schmidt

*Hymn—Guide My Feet—VT 816

Children’s Conversation—Jeanette Leary

Anthem—A Song of Thanksgiving (John Ferguson)—Chancel Choir; Riley King, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist

Scripture Reading—Psalm 105:4-13; Luke 3:4-9; Deut. 26:1-5—Emma Gering

Sermon—Fugitives in the Family Tree—Lauren Friesen

*Hymn—Lift Every Voice and Sing—VT 611

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Praise to the Living God—VT 204

Benediction

Postlude—Precious Lord Take My Hand (arr. Schrader)—Will Wiebe-Friesen

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

Welcome to Lauren Friesen
We welcome Lauren to deliver the sermon at BCMC today. Lauren and his partner Janet joined BCMC last May. Previously they had been active at Chicago Community Mennonite Church where Lauren often preached. Prior to their time in Chicago, Lauren was a professor at the University of Michigan. We are glad that he and Janet have wandered their way into this community!