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 belows 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’s worship service: https://youtu.be/SY3GARPNmWA
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH July 10, 2022
Prelude—Holy, Holy, Holy (Burkhardt) and When In Our Music God Is Glorified Hobby)— Karen Unruh
Christ Candle Lighting—Jill Robb
Welcome and Prayer—Jill Robb
*Hymn—Come We That Love—VT #31
Children’s Conversation—Adam Robb
Scripture Reading—Luke 10:25-37—Dianne Epp
Sermon—Go and do likewise—Todd Schlosser
*Hymn How can we be silent—VT 790
Prayers of God’s People—Jill Robb
*Hymn Lead me forth—VT 837
Benediction—Todd Schlosser
Postlude—O God, Our Help in Ages Past (Ashdown)—Karen Unruh
This Week at BCMC: July 10—17, 2022 Sunday, July 10 10:15 am Fellowship Time with coffee and water served in the Gathering Place 10:30 am Faith Formation—Visitors welcome! Adult Classes (If meeting): Agape Class (Rm B8) Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Mosaic (Rm 20); Open Circle (Room 21); Seekers (Rm 28); Sojourners (Chapel) Monday, July 11—Pastor Todd Schlosser will be on vacation through July 17. Monica Lichti will be away from the office Monday. The office will be closed, Monday, July 11, and will reopen Tuesday. Tuesday, July 12 12:00 noon Mid-Kansas Investment Club meeting in Fellowship Hall Thursday, July 14 4 pm Witness Commission meeting in Fellowship Hall 4 pm Staff Congregation Relations meeting in Room 14 7 pm Finance Committee meeting Sunday, July 17 9:30 am Worship with sermon by Eric Massanari 10:15 am Fellowship Time with coffee and water served in the Gathering Place 10:30 am Faith Formation—Visitors welcome!
The Abuse Prevention and Response Committee will take the months of July and part of August to read the book, #Church Too. On Sunday August 21 will be spent sharing reactions to the book, and on August 28 guiding questions will be used to help us discuss how we as a congregation can use the information from the book to help us create a healthy culture around sexuality at BCMC that supports survivors, our children/youth and ourselves. The book can be purchased through Amazon, requested through Faith and Life bookstore, or your favorite local independent bookstore of your choice. If demand is high we will pivot and figure out a way to have copies available in the church office for purchase. – Jill Robb, APRC chair
The Library theme for June and July is Caldecott and John Newbery Award Winners. We have many of these award winning books that would be of interest to both adults and children. Come check them out. We are also continuing to accept and sell puzzles. Not only are they on the cart, but also below the new book section on the west wall. Just leave a suggested donation of $5 in the envelope and enjoy. We have a long list of books that we would like to add to our collection and this is a great way to support our efforts.
The Library Committee has processed almost 20 new books, 10 of them purchased and donated by The Abuse Prevention and Response Committee. The APRC books can be found on the Pastor’s Corner shelf which is now located on the west wall with the other recent purchases. Another new purchase is “The Land Is Not Empty” by Sarah Augustine which was recommended by the Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery group. Please stop by and see what we have to offer and continue to browse and donate from our puzzle collection. The Library Committee
BCMC July 3 Offering: General Fund $10,447; Library Reserve Fund $10; Living Stones $2,190; Kitchen Fund (Coffee) $12
Western District Conference Assembly, July 29-31 Looking for a dream vacation this summer while serving the church? Camp Copass near Denton, Texas, might be just the ticket for you. It’s the site for the annual WDC Assembly. You’ll find registration information at https://mennowdc.org/2022-wdc-annual-assembly/. If attending the assembly in person, the cost for housing and meals is $168 (there is no registration fee). Transportation is available via vans from North Newton for $25 per person. There is also a virtual option for attending the assembly, although that does involve a $50 registration fee. The Gifts Discernment Committee will provide at least $150 for any delegates attending in person; $50 dollars for those participating virtually. BCMC qualifies for 16 delegates. Registration deadline is July 15. Contact the church office or a member of the Gifts Discernment Committee if you plan to attend. GDC members: Dale Schrag, Jerry Buller, Elaine Prouty, Jeanette Stucky
Faith Formation Commission recognizes that attending summer camps is not cheap, but that it is an extremely valuable part of faith formation for our young people. We have some scholarship funding available to assist families with covering the cost of registering for the 2022 camping season. We also hope to have funds available after the camping season to provide some amount of reimbursement to all families with campers. Please contact Mary Ellen Hodge or Pastor Todd Schlosser if you’d like assistance with camp registration this summer. These funds are only available to campers who camp at Mennonite camps. We encourage you to get registered early for an awesome summer of camping experiences! If anyone at BCMC would like to support our young people attending camp you can feel free to donate to our Mennonite Camping Scholarship Fund by writing a check made out to BCMC (with Mennonite Camp Scholarship in the memo line) and drop it off on Sunday morning or in the church office.
Faith Formation would like for everyone to fill out a short survey regarding interest in attending an intergenerational Sunday School class this coming school year with our children and youth. We are looking for adults who are interested in joining the class for one month out of the year. Please take a look at the survey and see if any of the areas of opportunity to help will interest you.
BCMC is in a time of transition, an “in-between” time of waiting and working in the boundary between what was and what will be. These times are rich with possibility for new understanding of our past and current status and for re-envisioning and planning our future. The following are updates on Church Board work during these transitional times:
Screen Project: It is with gratitude and excitement that we announce that we achieved the requested $12,200 commitment by the congregation to move ahead with the new screen for the front of the sanctuary. The church will also make a tithing donation to the International Rescue Committee as a part of this project. Thanks to the screen study task group for all their fine work over the last two years! And thanks to so many in our congregation who made an early donation to the project! Additional donations will be needed in the coming months to complete the project.
Expanded Pastoral Time for Nathan Koontz: The Church Board has approved a proposal to expand Nathan’s time from ½ time to ¾ time beginning June 13. The MOU is through November 27; Nathan and the Church Board will review the arrangement together in October or November to determine continuation. His additional work will focus on preaching (one additional Sunday each month) and performing the role of worship coordinator. Worship coordination includes making arrangements for worship leaders, scripture readers, and children’s storytellers; liaison work with musicians; work with guest pastors; and other planning and tasks as appropriate. Thank you, Nathan!
New Hope Shelter be hosting a Volunteer Training Session on Thursday, July 21 at 7 pm. New Hope’s volunteer shift hours are 5 pm to 11 pm daily. Anyone who signs up to be a volunteer must be trained by a staff member beforehand. Even if you have volunteered before COVID, you may want to come back in for a refresher course. If anyone who is interested in signing up for volunteer training, please contact Valetta Seymour no later than Tuesday, July 19. seymour2314@gmail.com, 620-217-7536.
Bethel College Announcements
Life Enrichment returns to Bethel College with the start of the fall 2022 semester – but It will be on a different day. Life Enrichment resumes Thursday, Aug. 25, and will be on Thursdays thereafter. Place and time remain the same: Krehbiel Auditorium, 9:30 a.m. See https://www.bethelks.edu/academics/convocation-lectures/life-enrichment for more information, and look for a brochure coming soon.
The 2022 issue of Mennonite Life, Bethel College’s annual online journal, is now live at ml.bethelks.edu, with articles and reviews by Daniel Shank Cruz, Chris Dick, June Mears Driedger, Susan Kennel Harrison, Raylene Hinz-Penner, Gordon Houser, Reinhild K. Janzen, Gayle Gerber Koontz, Steve Nolt, Rachel Pannabecker, Karen Reimer, Ben Woodward-Breckbill and Melanie Zuercher.
Western District Conference Announcements
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation!
Easy way to give! Do you want an easy way to donate to help cover WDC Annual Assembly expenses? Simply text 316-320-0787, then click the “Fund” dropdown menu and choose “Assembly Contributions.” We are grateful for any gifts toward this important annual gathering. Thank you for your support!
WDC Annual Assembly non-delegate fun: Not going to be a delegate, but plan to join us at Camp Copass, Denton, TX? There will be lots to do! We will have creative quiet recreational options, as well as active ones such as basketball, fishing, swimming, horse shoes, gaga ball, human foosball, and more. In addition to recreation, there will be service projects—tying MCC comforters, and collecting and bagging hygiene items for MCC, as well as for the immigration ministry of San Antonio Mennonite Church. There will be workshops to enjoy, as well. Join us! Register here https://mennowdc.org/2022-annual-assembly-registration/.
Summer Story Hour–God Rocks!– All children ages 3-8 in the central Kansas area are invited to God Rocks! Summer Story Hour at the WDC Conference Resource Library 2517 N. Main in North Newton. Fun Stories and Activities with Leader, Marjie Warkentine and Resource Library Director, Jennie Wintermote. Mondays at 10:00am on July 11, 18, 25 & August 1 & 8. Register for Story Hour here.
Mennonite Central Committee Announcements
Colorado peaches are back! Place your order for fresh Colorado peaches, just $27 for 10 lb. box and $38 for 18 lb. box by calling Mennonite Central Committee at 316-283-2720 or emailing patsydirksen@mcc.org. Peaches must be ordered and paid for by July 25. The peaches are offered as a fundraiser for the Colorado MCC Relief Sale, please make payment by check to Beth-El Mennonite Church with “peaches” in the memo line. Generous volunteers Jerry and Leann Toews will bring the peaches from Colorado to MCC in North Newton for you to pick-up around August 22.
Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Central States welcomes 3 new people to their staff. Brocia Mueller, volunteer coordinator in the MCC Workroom in North Newton; Wesley Wilder, human resources coordinator and Mahlet Mamo, young adult program coordinator.
MCC School Kit season is right around the corner! MCC is working to fulfil requests for school kits from partner organizations in Jordan, Ukraine, Malawi, Syria, Iraq, and Haiti. Things to keep in mind when making school kits this year: -Sewn school kit bags may be requested from the MCC Material Resources Center. -MCC North Newton has a large supply of pink erasers, so you can skip erasers and they’ll be added when the kit is checked at MCC. -The pencil sharpeners need to be metal, not plastic. -You can find the directions for school kits at mcc.org, or contact Kate at katemast@mcc.org or 316.283.2720 with any questions.
Excuse our mess! The work of making necessary repairs and reconfiguring spaces at the MCC building in North Newton continues to move forward. Donors and volunteers continue to graciously adapt to the mess. We ask for your prayers and patience during this construction process so the important work of MCC can continue without undue interruption.
Conflict is a normal part of life, but learning how to work through it is key. MCC has a resource to help you work through divisive issues, a new adult Sunday school curriculum, Peaceful Practices: A guide to healthy communication in conflict. It invites churchgoers to follow Jesus’ call to peacemaking through dialogue with each other. To follow up on the Peaceful Practices curriculum, MCC has two conversation guides, to help congregations dialogue on sensitive topics. #BlackLivesMatter: Can we have a conversation? and Critical Race Theory: How should race education be taught in schools? are available for download here.
For Mennonite Central Committee In Touch press here
Bluestem Communities will host its annual Innovations in Living with Dementia community forum through an online webinar at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 20. The evening’s presentation is “The Most Common Dementia Under 60,” which addresses frontotemporal degeneration. Registration and participation are free. One CEU approved by the State of Kansas is available for $15 for those who desire it. Pre-registration is required at bluestemks.org/dementiaforum.
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here For Mennonite World Conference Assembly Day One press here For Mennonite World Conference Assembly Indonesia Streaming press here For Mennonite World Conference Assembly Day Two press here
Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Delegate Assembly Now that the Special Session of the Delegate Assembly is over, and the resolutions have passed, you may have questions about what it all means. Join Mennonite Church USA Executive Board and staff members for the “Special Session of the Delegate Assembly: What now?” webinar, July 18 at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT, to explore these questions. Register here: mennoniteusa.org/webinar-whats-next
This week, please pray for Virginia Mennonite Conference congregations as they gather for their summer delegate assembly on July 14-16.
Menno Snapshots Father’s Day has passed, but the advice that Steve Thomas of Mennonite Men shares in his blog, “Fathers” continues to encourage fathers to build loving relationships with their children. Read his advice here: mennoniteusa.org/fathers
Menno Snapshots At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Gwen Gustafson-Zook walked into a yarn shop and came to the realization that knitting would be the key to getting her through this difficult season. See how she uses knitting as a spiritual practice in her Menno Snapshots blog, “Stitch by stitch: Knitting as a spiritual practice.” mennoniteusa.org/knitting-spiritual-practice
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for the Indonesian Mennonite churches that are hosting Mennonite World Conference Assembly. Pray that the bonds of God’s love and shalom, which participants are sharing at this global gathering, will be extended around the world, as people return to their home communities. Pray, also, for safety in travel and protection from COVID-19.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for children attending WDC’s summer story hour at the Conference Resource Library, that this would be a nurturing time of learning and fun together.
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 belows 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’s worship service: https://youtu.be/tgFAeUWJiQM
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH July 3, 2022 Prelude— The Spacious Firmament (arr. DeCou) On Jordan’s Stormy Banks(arr. Bish)—Will Wiebe-Friesen, organ
Christ Candle Lighting
Land Acknowledgement—Raylene Hinz-Penner
Welcome and Prayer
*Hymn—Here in This Place –VT 10
Children’s Conversation—Tim Hodge
Worship Music—John Mark Koontz, piano; Josh Bergman, trumpet
Scripture Reading—1 Kings 21:1-19—Heather and Justin Zerger
Sermon—Naboth and Queen Lili’uokalani—Nathan Koontz
*Hymn—Could It Be That God is Singing—VT 42
Kin-dom Report—Jill Robb
Prayers of God’s People
*Hymn—Lead On, O Cloud of Presence—VT 194
Benediction—Nathan Koontz
Postlude—Prelude and Fugue in C (J.S. Bach)—Will Wiebe-Friesen
* You are invited to stand VT = Voices Together Audio visual—Francis Toews Pastors—Nathan Koontz, Todd Schlosser
Land Acknowledgement compiled by Florence Schloneger 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.
This Week at BCMC: July 3—10, 2022 Sunday, July 3 9:30 am Worship in the Sanctuary 10:15 am Fellowship Time with coffee and water served in the Gathering Place 10:30 am Faith Formation—Visitors welcome! Adult Classes (If meeting): Agape Class (Rm B8) Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Mosaic (Rm 20); Open Circle (Room 21); Seekers (Rm 28); Sojourners (Chapel) Monday, July 4—The church will be locked and the office closed for the Independence Day Holiday Thursday, July 7 7 pm Church Board Meeting in Room 14 Sunday, July 10 9:30 am Worship with sermon by Todd Schlosser 10:15 am Fellowship Time with coffee and water served in the Gathering Place 10:30 am Faith Formation—Visitors welcome!
Western District Conference Assembly, July 29-31 Looking for a dream vacation this summer while serving the church? Camp Copass near Denton, Texas, might be just the ticket for you. It’s the site for the annual WDC Assembly. You’ll find registration information at https://mennowdc.org/2022-wdc-annual-assembly/. If attending the assembly in person, the cost for housing and meals is $168 (there is no registration fee). Transportation is available via vans from North Newton for $25 per person. There is also a virtual option for attending the assembly, although that does involve a $50 registration fee. The Gifts Discernment Committee will provide at least $150 for any delegates attending in person; $50 dollars for those participating virtually. BCMC qualifies for 16 delegates. Registration deadline is July 15. Contact the church office or a member of the Gifts Discernment Committee if you plan to attend. GDC members: Dale Schrag, Jerry Buller, Elaine Prouty, Jeanette Stucky
Faith Formation would like for everyone to fill out a short survey regarding interest in attending an intergenerational Sunday School class this coming school year with our children and youth. We are looking for adults who are interested in joining the class for one month out of the year. Please take a look at the survey and see if any of the areas of opportunity to help will interest you.
BCMC June 26 Offering: General Fund $9,497; Plant Fund $150; Library Reserve Fund $35; Living Stones $655; Mennonite Camp Scholarship $100; Kitchen Fund $20.21; Women’s Fellowship $50; Screen Project $2,000.
Change to make to your BCMC Church Directory: Jerry and Carol Buller have discontinued their phone land line. Jerry’s cell phone number: 316-283-0941 (this is also his shop number) Carol’s cell phone number: 316-772-8404 Jerry’s email: jb-bullercycle@att.net
The Library theme for June and July is Caldecott and John Newbery Award Winners. We have many of these award winning books that would be of interest to both adults and children. Come check them out. We are also continuing to accept and sell puzzles. Not only are they on the cart, but also below the new book section on the west wall. Just leave a suggested donation of $5 in the envelope and enjoy. We have a long list of books that we would like to add to our collection and this is a great way to support our efforts.
The Library Committee has processed almost 20 new books, 10 of them purchased and donated by The Abuse Prevention and Response Committee. The APRC books can be found on the Pastor’s Corner shelf which is now located on the west wall with the other recent purchases. Another new purchase is “The Land Is Not Empty” by Sarah Augustine which was recommended by the Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery group. Please stop by and see what we have to offer and continue to browse and donate from our puzzle collection. The Library Committee
New Hope Shelter be hosting a Volunteer Training Session on Thursday, July 21st at 7pm.
Their volunteer shift hours are as follows: 5pm to 11pm daily.
Anyone who signs up to be a volunteer must be trained by a Staff member beforehand. Even if they have volunteered before COVID, they may want to come back in for a refresher course. If anyone who is interested in signing up for volunteer training, please contact Valetta Seymour no later than Tuesday, July 19. seymour2314@gmail.com, 620-217-7536.
Western District Conference Announcements
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation!
Western District Conference Annual Assembly is for all ages! Remember that this year, there is Assembly fun and faith formation for adults, youth (ages 12-18), children (ages 6-11) , and childcare for those 5 and under. Generous scholarships for youth available! Register your whole family or youth group at https://mennowdc.org/2022-annual-assembly-registration/. Registration closes July 15.
WDC Annual Assembly Workshops – Mennonite World Conference Snapshot, Everence financial resources, Healthy Boundaries: What Is Your Pastor Learning?, church planting and revitalization, immigrant ministries of San Antonio Mennonite Church, and more! Both virtual and on-site workshops available! Register at https://mennowdc.org/2022-annual-assembly-registration/ for WDC Annual Assembly! Registration closes July 15.
Easy way to give! Do you want an easy way to donate to help cover WDC Annual Assembly expenses? Simply text 316-320-0787, then click the “Fund” dropdown menu and choose “Assembly Contributions.” We are grateful for any gifts toward this important annual gathering. Thank you for your support!
The 2022 issue of Mennonite Life, Bethel College’s annual online journal, is now live at ml.bethelks.edu, with articles and reviews by Daniel Shank Cruz, Chris Dick, June Mears Driedger, Susan Kennel Harrison, Raylene Hinz-Penner, Gordon Houser, Reinhild K. Janzen, Gayle Gerber Koontz, Steve Nolt, Rachel Pannabecker, Karen Reimer, Ben Woodward-Breckbill and Melanie Zuercher.
Kansas Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution Updates 2515 College Avenue, North Newton, KS 67117 kipcor.orgkipcor@bethelks.edu (316) 284-5217
The following updates are some of the events and initiatives at KIPCOR that have happened so far this year:
Leadership & staffing
GOODBYE
In January, we said goodbye to Dan Wassink, our former Director of the Community Mediation Center, who recently took a position as the Dispute Resolution Services Manager in the Virginia Supreme Court’s Department of Judicial Services.
We also said goodbye to Doug Lengel, KIPCOR’s office manager in May. After seven years in his role, he decided to retire. In so many ways, Doug was the glue that held our office together. Doug was usually the first friendly face one might encounter when entering the front office at KIPCOR.
HELLO
We welcome Gretchen Schrag, as KIPCOR’s new office manager, who starts in late June. Gretchen is a former para educator for Goessel High School, who worked in that capacity for nearly a decade. She is a Bethel alum, and in the fall, she will have three children enrolled at Bethel at the same time! In her personal time, Gretchen enjoys reading a good book, cooking and gardening. We are so excited to have her at KIPCOR!
Community Mediation Center
KIPCOR Senior Associate, Kirsten Zerger continues to serve in the capacity of Interim Community Mediation Center Manager. Many of our community partners have remarked how seamless the transition has been since Dan’s departure.
We continue to offer Divorce Impact classes virtually with great success. Enrollment is steady and parents seem to appreciate taking classes via Zoom.We also continue to do all of our mediations virtually, to the satisfaction of our clients. After mastering mediations virtually, our staff has been instrumental in training other mediators from around the state and beyond in this practice.
Our KIPCOR film series continues to draw folks back to campus for in-person engagement. The past three films have brought an average of 150 people for each viewing (masked and socially distanced). We are grateful for those who have come out to join us!
Education and Training
It was a very busy year for KIPCOR Staff! Here is a list of the trainings we have done over the past few months and ones we will do in the coming months:
Organizational teaching/training/consulting:
Provided a restorative circle process for a Seattle-based nonprofit’s board and staff
Contracted with Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (KLETC) and provided a Conflict Management course for law enforcement officers in February, and offered an RJ course for school resource officers in June
Offered an Implicit Bias/ Microaggressions workshop for Harvey County Health Department in April
Offered a Conflict Management course for Kansas Department for Children and Families (offered 4 times between March and June)
Currently providing support for Prairie View with strategic planning around diversity, equity and inclusion-related implementation work
Other training offered
Core Mediation training in February
Domestic Mediation in March
Victim Offender Dialogue training in May
KIPCOR’s Restorative Schools Initiative work:
Continued support of Lawrence Public Schools and restorative justice implementation
Continued support of Kansas City Kansas Public Schools – training scheduled for all KCKPS high school staff before the start of the 2022-23 school year other upcoming RP trainings in April-May
Guest Speakers and Special Events
Last fall, Bethel College officially became a Truth Reconciliation, Healing and Transformation (TRHT) Campus Center. During the 2020-2021 school year, with the support of President Jon Gering, KIPCOR and Bethel College partnered to apply and was accepted to attend the 2021 Virtual Institute on Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation (TRHT) by the American Association of Colleges & Universities (AAC&U). In June, KIPCOR Executive Director, Sheryl Wilson and Director of Education and Training, Eva Lapp, joined three other Bethel colleagues – Academic Dean, Bob Milliman, Professor Christine Crouse-Dick, and Associate Professor Peter Goerzen – in attending the institute, exploring the possibility of becoming an official TRHT Campus Center, and creating an Action Plan to guide the college toward this goal and future implementation of TRHT on campus. In October, Bethel College was informed by AAC&U of its acceptance as the first official TRHT Campus Center in the state of Kansas. In June, the team attended its second TRHT Institute and the team is looking forward to continuing offering more racial healing circles to students, staff and faculty.
In January, KIPCOR and Bethel College Student Life co-sponsored Bethel College’s annual MLK Day Lecture given by international restorative justice facilitator, Jasmyn Elise Story. A recording of the event is on the Bethel College YouTube page. This event was very lively with approximately 200 in attendance. Jasmyn stayed well beyond the end of the event to answer questions and have conversations with attendees.
We look forward to this fall’s KIPCOR Peace Lecture Series where we will host Dr. Fania Davis, a leading international voice on the intersections of racial and restorative justice. We are thrilled that she will lead off this historic 50th season of the peace lecture series. Please check our website frequently for more information related to this very special event!
We continue to be grateful for the many ways that you have given so generously over the past year. Today is the last day that you can give to make an impact at KIPCOR this fiscal year. If you would like to donate electronically, please click here. If you would like to pay by check, but are unable to bring it to KIPCOR today, please contact KIPCOR Executive Director, Sheryl Wilson at swilson@bethelks.edu or (316) 284-5881, and she will make arrangements to retrieve it.
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond click here For Mennonite World Conference Assembly News click here
Anabaptist Disabilities Webinar link
Webinar Available to Watch Now: “Dementia and Congregational Care”ADN is grateful to offer the recording of “Dementia and Congregational Care,” a webinar held virtually on Thursday, June 16. The webinar was led by Heddie Sumner, RN, BSN, and co-hosted by Church of the Brethren Discipleship Ministries and Anabaptist Disabilities Network.Dementia affects individuals, their family members and the congregation. Many times, we want to offer support but we do not know where to start. We often back off because we don’t want to do the wrong thing. This webinar will help you understand basics of dementia and learn how to reach out. We will offer communication tips and practical ways to stay connected. We can maintain relationships by offering reassurance, encouragement and acceptance. When we include our members with dementia and their families, the whole congregation benefits. Watch and view more resources at the link: https://www.anabaptistdisabilitiesnetwork.org/Resources/Webinars/Pages/Dementia-and-Congregational-Care.aspx
Share your story!If you have an experience related to this topic or another related to disability inclusion in churches, we’d love to hear your story.
Mennonite Church USA (MC USA) conducted a denomination-wide survey to examine what it means to be a member of MC USA and how this has changed in the past 16 years. The preliminary results can be found here, with the full study being released later this month: mennoniteusa.org/summary-denominational-study
Join all Mennonite Church USA congregations in praying for “Indonesia 2022,” the global assembly of Mennonite World Conference being held in Indonesia July 5-10. This is a hybrid (online and in person) event. For more information, visit mennoniteusa.org/mwca22
Delegate Assembly Delegates at Mennonite Church USA’s (MC USA) Special Session of the Delegate Assembly voted on three resolutions and adopted another for denominational study. The three resolutions passed, helping remove barriers for LGBTQ folks and those with disabilities. Read the official MC USA news release here: mennoniteusa.org/news/delegate22
Menno Snapshots The Mennonite Church USA Executive Board issued a statement condemning the violence in Uvalde, Texas, and elsewhere. Read it here: mennoniteusa.org/statement-on-recent-violence The Executive Board also shared a call to prayer and action against gun violence, here: mennoniteusa.org/prayer-uvalde
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network’s week-long Youth Venture civil rights learning tour begins today. Pray for the 23 participants as they focus on the realities of racial injustice in the United States, both in the past and the present.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC members and others participating on-site or virtually in Mennonite World Conference Assembly in Indonesia this week, and for God’s blessing on this time of worship, fellowship, and witness of the global Anabaptist community.
Pride Month at BCMC During June Pride month celebrating LGBTQIA persons, BCMC had pride flags flying all around our church campus. In addition, these flags were in celebration of the recent resolutions passed at the MCUSA Special Delegate Assembly that open up access to the LGBTQIA persons in MCUSA and acknowledge previous harm that has been done to them by the church. Members from our congregation attended a Unity March and potluck on June 25 in Wichita sponsored by Wichita Pride.
This Week at BCMC: June 26-July 4, 2022 Sunday, June 26 10:15 am Fellowship Time with coffee and water served in the Gathering Place 10:30 am Faith Formation—Visitors welcome! Adult Classes (If meeting): Agape Class (Rm B8) Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Mosaic (Rm 20); Open Circle (Room 21); Seekers (Rm 28); Sojourners (Chapel) Sunday, July 3 9:30 am Worship with sermon by Todd Schlosser 10:15 am Fellowship Time in the Gathering Place 10:30 am Faith Formation Monday, July 4—The church will be locked and the office closed for the Independence Day Holiday
Have you completed the survey? Respond by July 1. BCMC has contracted with Credence Company to help us assess congregational strengths and challenges and review our current leadership structures as we consider the future with new pastors. As a part of the process, each congregant received an emailed letter and survey on June 15. All are encouraged to complete the survey and return it promptly; our consultants are hoping to receive all responses by July 1. The survey can be completed online but will also be available in paper format for those who request it through the church office. For households with shared email addresses, it is possible for more than one person to complete the survey received through one email address. Names will differentiate surveys from the same household email address. Credence staff is now beginning oral interviews through Zoom as well; the Church Board completed a group interview on Monday evening, June 20. Please indicate on the survey if you are willing to be one of the 35 congregants who will be interviewed individually. Thanks for your participation and thoughtful responses!
Faith Formation would like for everyone to fill out a short survey regarding interest in attending an intergenerational Sunday School class this coming school year with our children and youth. We are looking for adults who are interested in joining the class for one month out of the year. Please take a look at the survey and see if any of the areas of opportunity to help will interest you.
We offer sympathy to the family of James ‘Jim’ Gaeddert. James died June 15, 2022. Jim’s children are Douglas (Lisa), Gregory (Terri),Bradley (Tracy Kruse), and Janelle Benninghoff (Dan). BCMC member Joel Gaeddert is a grandchild (Crystal, Collin, and Brett). A memorial service is being planned for July 23. Details will come later.
Budget update: For May 2022, income was $35,452 and expenses were $38,968. For the year-to-date, income is $176,381 and expenses are 214,380. – The Finance Committee
BCMC June 19 Offering: General Fund $8,342; Library Reserve Fund $10; Living Stones $2,163.33; Screen Project $1,138; Kenneth Schmidt Memorial $25.
Pride Month at BCMC During June Pride month celebrating LGBTQIA persons, we have pride flags flying all around our church campus. In addition, these flags are in celebration of the recent resolutions passed at the MCUSA Special Delegate Assembly that open up access to the LGBTQIA persons in MCUSA and acknowledge previous harm that has been done to them by the church. Also throughout the month of June, the BCMC Supportive Communities Network banner will be at the front of the sanctuary. Finally, members from our congregation will also be attending a Unity March and potluck on June 25 in Wichita sponsored by Wichita Pride. Go to their website for more details. If you are planning on attending, please contact Nathan Koontz so he can get you a button.
On-call cookie crew. BCMC thanks those who have facilitated meals and receptions after memorial services in the past. Since April, a new Funeral Committee has hosted box lunches for families, with BCMC providing dessert. We may also host receptions after a service. With that in mind, could you provide cookies, bar cookies or brownies, if it suits? To join the on-call cookie crew, email dave.linscheid@gmail.com. Thank you. – Dennis and Kathy Campbell, Tom Jackson, Dave Linscheid, Kathryn Simmons and Doris Whillock
The Library theme for June and July is Caldecott and John Newbery Award Winners. We have many of these award winning books that would be of interest to both adults and children. Come check them out. We are also continuing to accept and sell puzzles. Not only are they on the cart, but also below the new book section on the west wall. Just leave a suggested donation of $5 in the envelope and enjoy. We have a long list of books that we would like to add to our collection and this is a great way to support our efforts.
Update from the Church Board: BCMC is in a time of transition, an “in-between” time of waiting and working in the boundary between what was and what will be. These times are rich with possibility for new understanding of our past and current status and for re-envisioning and planning our future. The following are updates on Church Board work during these transitional times:
Expanded Pastoral Time for Nathan Koontz: The Church Board has approved a proposal to expand Nathan’s time from ½ time to ¾ time beginning June 13. The MOU is through November 27; Nathan and the Church Board will review the arrangement together in October or November to determine continuation. His additional work will focus on preaching (one additional Sunday each month) and performing the role of worship coordinator. Worship coordination includes making arrangements for worship leaders, scripture readers, and children’s storytellers; liaison work with musicians; work with guest pastors; and other planning and tasks as appropriate. Thank you, Nathan!
Screen Project: It is with gratitude and excitement that we announce that we achieved the requested $12,200 commitment by the congregation to move ahead with the new screen for the front of the sanctuary. The church will also make a tithing donation to the International Rescue Committee as a part of this project. Thanks to the screen study task group for all their fine work over the last two years! And thanks to so many in our congregation who made an early donation to the project! Additional donations will be needed in the coming months to complete the project.
Western District Conference Announcements
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation!
Start out the morning with God at Western District Conference Assembly! – Tonya Ramer Wenger will be leading morning prayer Saturday and Sunday at 7 am at Camp Copass as part of our Annual Assembly. Camp Copass is on a lovely peninsula, so morning prayer will be by the lake. We hope you’ll join us. Register at: https://mennowdc.org/2022-annual-assembly-registration/
WDC Annual Assembly Workshops – Mennonite World Conference Snapshot, Everence financial resources, Healthy Boundaries: What Is Your Pastor Learning?, church planting and revitalization, immigrant ministries of San Antonio Mennonite Church, and more! Both virtual and on-site workshops available! Register at https://mennowdc.org/2022-annual-assembly-registration/ for WDC Annual Assembly! Registration closes July 15.
Easy way to give! Do you want an easy way to donate to help cover WDC Annual Assembly expenses? Simply text 316-320-0787, then click the “Fund” dropdown menu and choose “Assembly Contributions.” We are grateful for any gifts toward this important annual gathering. Thank you for your support!
June Western District Conference Resource Library Final Thursday Book Discussion: “At no other time in history or place in the world have so many people understood themselves to be suffering from mental health problems.” In Not Quite Fine: Mental Health, Faith, and Showing Up for One Another, author Carlene Hill Byron calls and equips the church to step up for such a time as this. Join us Thursday, June 30 at 7:00 pm via Zoom to discuss the book. Register by emailing crlib@mennowdc.org
Summer Story Hour–God Rocks! – All children ages 3-8 in the central Kansas area are invited to God Rocks! Summer Story Hour at the WDC Conference Resource Library 2517 N. Main in North Newton. Fun Stories and Activities with Leader, Marjie Warkentine and Resource Library Director, Jennie Wintermote. Mondays at 10:00am on June 27, July 11, 18, 25 & August 1 & 8. Register for Story Hour here.
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond click here
Berlin Exodus Presentation – Sun., June 26—7:00 pm—Come hear the story of how Mennonite Central Committee worker, Peter Dyck, moved 1,200 Ukrainian Mennonite refugees located in Berlin to a waiting ship in West Germany to travel to Paraguay in 1947 (75 years ago). The Berlin Exodus (also known as the Great Escape) is the theme of an evening presentation at Trinity Mennonite Church (211 Elm Street, Hillsboro, KS) led by Calvin Buller.
Mennonite Church USA Announcements Menno Snapshots Glen Guyton, executive director for Mennonite Church USA, laments the violence that has taken place in the recent months. “I know that our church is not immune from the same hatred and rhetoric that may have inspired some of this weekend’s violence. It bothers me even to consider that those elements may be creeping into some corners of our historic peace church.” Read more of his reflection here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/must-take-action-not-beyond-hate
As many graduates are journeying on to a different place, many times outside of their original communities, it is important to find the balance between support and being overbearing. “Our greatest gift is offering relational support and creating a safe space for questions and wonderings, as our youths’ worldviews expand.” Learn more from Sarah Neher, director of faith formation and congregational life at Rainbow Mennonite Church, as she provides guidelines for supporting our youth: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/supporting-graduates-faith-journey
As part of Mennonite Church USA’s Learn, Pray, Join: Welcoming EveryBODY initiative, Matthew Yoder, pastor of Grace Mennonite Church, reflects on why he believes that the Accessibility Resolution is so important to him personally. “Thanks to generous friends, evolving technologies and accessible spaces, [my grandfather] is able to continue to pursue his passion of worshipping God and serving the church.” Read more of his story here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/accessibility-key-ongoing-faithfulness
As part of Mennonite Church USA’s Learn, Pray, Join: Welcoming EveryBODY initiative, Shepherd Heart, a ministry of the Pacific Southwest Conference shares suggestions on preaching about disabilities. “Accessibility is about more than accommodation. How we preach about disability is profoundly important.” Read their guidelines here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/when-preaching-on-disability
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Gordon McDade, Karen Sethuraman and Patricia Whitestone, community chaplains with Soul Space, an organization that walks alongside peacemakers in Belfast, Northern Ireland, a city fractured by partisan conflict. Pray for Gordon, Karen and Patricia as they offer hospitable spaces where people can process the traumas they have experienced.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: As we celebrate Pentecost this month, join the Church Planting Commission in praying for WDC congregations to be empowered by the Holy Spirit to explore new initiatives energizing and promoting the mission and vision of Jesus’ Kingdom of God. May each congregation be alert to their own unique opportunities and assets inviting new possibilities for discipleship, evangelism, mission, and outreach. AMEN – Pastor Tonya Ramer Wenger
Church moderator: As sisters and brothers in this faith community, today we give thanks for your almost three years of ministry among us, Renee. We say farewell to you, and we ask God to bless the journey ahead – yours and this congregation’s work to move forward.
Congregation: All praise be to our God. In God there is one Body, one Spirit. There is one hope in God’s call to us all.
Renee: We have shared worship and work–much of it during complex circumstances. I’ve gotten to know you in the park, over Zoom and text, and in this church building. We’ve worked hard to creatively craft consistent faith formation ministries in the midst of challenges. We enjoyed bible studies, games, and service projects. I treasure the ways we followed Jesus together.
Church moderator: This is a time of many feelings: sadness, joy, loss, and thankfulness. It’s the goodbyes that are hard, but we have accomplished much during these years together, and we give God thanks and praise for you and your fruitful ministry.
Renee: I leave with cherished memories of our times together. You have shaped my faith. You have helped me see and seek God’s presence in our lives and in the community. Thank you for your care, your creativity, your encouragement, and your hope along the way.
Church moderator elect: God has blessed us richly through your ministry. We now bless you as you begin a new chapter in your life and ministry journey.
Conference Minister: As you, the people of Bethel College Mennonite Church, bless Renee as she leaves this
congregation, do you now release her from her pastoral responsibilities and relationships?
Congregation: With the help of God, we do. We give thanks for Renee’s faithful leadership and now acknowledge this transition in the life of our congregation. We will pray for God’s continued guidance in her life.
Conference Minister: Renee, do you release the congregation from its loyalty to you as their pastor? Do you release the members from turning to you and depending on you to provide the pastoral ministries they seek?
Renee: With the help of God, I do. When we meet in the future, we will be siblings in Christ, not pastor and church members. I will hold the congregation and its ministries in my prayers.
Conference Minister: Renee, may God bless and guide you on the next steps of your journey. May you ultimately form new, caring relationships in a new and beloved community, wherever that may be. May God bless the rest and renewal that you seek and the work that you will undertake next. May God bless and guide this congregation into a hopeful future as it continues kingdom work and seeks new leadership. May God bless and guide each of us in the new relationship that we now will share. Amen.
We offer sympathy to the family of James ‘Jim’ Gaeddert. James died June 15, 2022. Jim’s children are Douglas (Lisa), Gregory (Terri),Bradley (Tracy Kruse), and Janelle Benninghoff (Dan). BCMC member Joel Gaeddert is a grandchild (Crystal, Collin, and Brett). A memorial service is being planned and the date will be announced later.
The memorial service for Orletta Wiebe will be Friday, June 24, 3 pm at BCMC. Orletta died June 8 at Schowalter Villa, Hesston.
This Week at BCMC: June 19-26, 2022 Sunday, June 19–Juneteenth 10:30 am Faith Formation—Visitors welcome! Adult Classes (If meeting): Agape Class (Rm B8) Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Mosaic (Rm 20); Open Circle (Room 21); Seekers (Rm 28); Sojourners (Chapel) Monday, June 20—Juneteenth: a holiday for church staff; church will be locked and the office closed today 9 am Women’s Fellowship Executive Board will meet at Lois Preheim’s home, 3005 S. Kansas Road, Newton Tuesday, June 21 9 am KIPCOR (Kansas Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution) will be using the Fellowship Hall and some classrooms in the basement for meetings Tuesday through Friday morning Thursday, June 23 2 pm Hospitality Commission meeting in Room 14 7 pm Deacon Commission meeting in Room 14 Friday, June 24 3 pm Memorial service for Orletta Wiebe in the Sanctuary Sunday, June 26 9:30 am Worship with sermon by Todd Schlosser 10:30 am Faith Formation
Budget update: For May 2022, income was $35,452 and expenses were $38,968. For the year-to-date, income is $176,381 and expenses are 214,380. – The Finance Committee
May 17 Offering: General Fund $3,330.00; Camp Mennoscah $1475; Living Stones $13.33; Mennonite Camp Scholarship $574; Mission Quilters $132; Keith Sprunger Memorial $250; Larry Friesen Memorial $100 May 22 Offering: General Fund $6,086; Camp Mennoscah $80; Caring Fund $25; Living Stones $80; Women’s Fellowship $498; Keith Sprunger Memorial $855. May 29 Offering: General Fund $5,435.64; Library Reserve Fund $31; Living Stones $255; Screen Project $500; Keith Sprunger Memorial $100. June 5 Offering: General Fund $4,570; Living Stones $340; Screen Project $2,700; Keith Sprunger Memorial $1,000 June 13, 2022: Offering: Genera Fund $9,358.95; Library Reserve Fund $20 Living Stones $430; Screen Project $3,700; Dean Koppes Memorial $50.
Pride Month at BCMC During June Pride month celebrating LGBTQIA persons, we have pride flags flying all around our church campus. In addition, these flags are in celebration of the recent resolutions passed at the MCUSA Special Delegate Assembly that open up access to the LGBTQIA persons in MCUSA and acknowledge previous harm that has been done to them by the church. Also throughout the month of June, the BCMC Supportive Communities Network banner will be at the front of the sanctuary. Finally, members from our congregation will also be attending a Unity March and potluck on June 25 in Wichita sponsored by Wichita Pride. Go to their website for more details. If you are planning on attending, please contact Nathan Koontz so he can get you a button.
On-call cookie crew. BCMC thanks those who have facilitated meals and receptions after memorial services in the past. Since April, a new Funeral Committee has hosted box lunches for families, with BCMC providing dessert. We may also host receptions after a service. With that in mind, could you provide cookies, bar cookies or brownies, if it suits? To join the on-call cookie crew, email dave.linscheid@gmail.com. Thank you. – Dennis and Kathy Campbell, Tom Jackson, Dave Linscheid, Kathryn Simmons and Doris Whillock
The Library theme for June and July is Caldecott and John Newbery Award Winners. We have many of these award winning books that would be of interest to both adults and children. Come check them out. We are also continuing to accept and sell puzzles. Not only are they on the cart, but also below the new book section on the west wall. Just leave a suggested donation of $5 in the envelope and enjoy. We have a long list of books that we would like to add to our collection and this is a great way to support our efforts.
Update from the Church Board: BCMC is in a time of transition, an “in-between” time of waiting and working in the boundary between what was and what will be. These times are rich with possibility for new understanding of our past and current status and for re-envisioning and planning our future. The following are updates on Church Board work during these transitional times:
Credence and Company Consultants: BCMC has contracted with Credence to help us assess congregational strengths and challenges and review our current leadership structures as we consider the future with new pastors. As a part of the process, each congregant will receive a survey later today to begin gathering information. All are encouraged to complete the survey and return it promptly; your perspectives are important! The survey can be completed online but will also be available in paper format for those who request it through the church office. For households with shared email addresses, it is possible for more than one person to complete the survey received through one email address. Names will differentiate surveys from the same household email address. After individual and group interviews as well as preliminary reports and feedback, the consultants plan to submit their final report to the church sometime before Advent. A reference group of David Linscheid, Lois Preheim, Megan Kohlman, Ada Schmidt-Tieszen, and Todd Schlosser has been offering feedback to the consultants. Thank you for taking on this important work! About the Survey: Please find the survey by using the following link: https://credenceandco.com/bethel college-mennonite-church-discernment-process-survey/.
Expanded Pastoral Time for Nathan Koontz: The Church Board has approved a proposal to expand Nathan’s time from ½ time to ¾ time beginning June 13. The MOU is through November 27; Nathan and the Church Board will review the arrangement together in October or November to determine continuation. His additional work will focus on preaching (one additional Sunday each month) and performing the role of worship coordinator. Worship coordination includes making arrangements for worship leaders, scripture readers, and children’s storytellers; liaison work with musicians; work with guest pastors; and other planning and tasks as appropriate. Thank you, Nathan!
Good-bye to Pastor Renee Reimer: The Church Board and congregation bid farewell to Renee during her last Sunday with us (June 12) and during a reception on Monday, June 13. Her final day of work with the church is June 17. We are so grateful for her work with the church and for her conversations and suggestions during this time of leaving. Although we’ll miss you, we wish you well, Renee!
Screen Project: It is with gratitude and excitement that we announce that we achieved the requested $12,200 commitment by the congregation to move ahead with the new screen for the front of the sanctuary. The church will also make a tithing donation to the International Rescue Committee as a part of this project. Thanks to the screen study task group for all their fine work over the last two years! And thanks to so many in our congregation who made an early donation to the project! Additional donations will be needed in the coming months to complete the project.
Bethel College’s Prison Theater Project is currently in process, with director John McCabe-Juhnke, Bethel students and seven men from the Hutchinson Correctional Facility minimum-security East Unit. The public performance at HCF is Friday, July 1, 7 p.m., and the project is looking for an audience! If you’d like to go, contact Offender-Victim Ministries in Newton at 316-283-2038 (Mon.-Thurs.) by June 23.
Mennonites Against Militarism seeks volunteers interested in counter-recruitment efforts
Mennonites Against Militarism – a collaboration of Mennonite Central Committee, U.S. and Mennonite Church USA – is seeking to launch an initiative to counter military recruitment of U.S. youth, called Alternatives to Military Enlistment Network (AMEN). AMEN invites interested volunteers to complete a brief survey that identifies areas in which they may engage with AMEN, including administration, web and graphic design, publicity, budgeting, fundraising and guidance/career counseling. Take the survey here: https://rb.gy/gbehlm
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation!
Start out the morning with God at WDC Assembly!– Tonya Ramer Wenger will be leading morning prayer Saturday and Sunday at 7 am at Camp Copass as part of our Annual Assembly. Camp Copass is on a lovely peninsula, so morning prayer will be by the lake. We hope you’ll join us. Register at: https://mennowdc.org/2022-annual-assembly-registration/
June WDC Resource Library Final Thursday Book Discussion: “At no other time in history or place in the world have so many people understood themselves to be suffering from mental health problems.” In Not Quite Fine: Mental Health, Faith, and Showing Up for One Another, author Carlene Hill Byron calls and equips the church to step up for such a time as this. Join us Thursday, June 30 at 7:00pm via Zoom to discuss the book. Register by emailing crlib@mennowdc.org
Summer Story Hour–God Rocks! – All children ages 3-8 in the central Kansas area are invited to God Rocks! Summer Story Hour at the WDC Conference Resource Library 2517 N. Main in North Newton. Fun Stories and Activities with Leader, Marjie Warkentine and Resource Library Director, Jennie Wintermote. Mondays at 10:00am on June 27, July 11, 18, 25 & August 1 & 8. Register for Story Hour here.
June 15, 2022
Urgent prayer request from Ecuador
Peter Wigginton, who is serving in Ecuador with his wife, Delicia Bravo, has been struggling with back problems. Recently, the pain was so severe that he had to go to the emergency room. Peter has consulted with two surgeons and is facing possible surgery for a herniated disc. Peter and Delicia request prayer for healing and for wisdom as they decide whether to have surgery.
The timing of Peter’s back pain is disappointing as Delicia and Peter and their two daughters, Aliyah, 8, and Ariana, 5, were planning to go to Bolivia to visit Delicia’s family on July 4. It has been three years since the family has been able to visit with parents and extended family, due to COVID restrictions. Pray that the visit to Bolivia can be rescheduled in the not-too-distant future. Blessings!
Lynda Hollinger-Janzen Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Ministry Direct phone: 574-523-3043, Fax 316-283-0454 Toll Free: 1-866-866-2872 Ext. 23026 E-mail: LyndaHJ@MennoniteMission.net “Together, sharing all of Christ with all of creation.”
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond click here For Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level press here
Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Menno Snapshots Learn, Pray, Join: Welcoming EveryBODY is a collaborative initiative between Mennonite Church USA and Anabaptist Disabilities Network that celebrates the many gifts that people with disabilities bring to our church communities. Christle Hain, the marketing communications and engagement associate for MC USA, reflects on her life as a person with “disability” and her experiences in the Mennonite church. Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/educating-listening-around-disability
As part of Mennonite Church USA’s “Learn, Pray, Join: Welcoming EveryBODY” initiative, Suzanne Kratz, volunteer manager at Care & Share Thrift Shoppes, shares about her experiences creating spaces for friends with differing abilities. “When welcoming people into our communities, it is important that we remember that each and every person has been created by a loving God, in God’s image.” Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/should-i-say-everybody
Joanne Gallardo points out in her recent Menno Snapshots blog that our society today “lives by the gun.” She argues that, as Christian pacifists, we are called to something different. Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/entitled-to-violence
In her Menno Snapshots blog, Katie Graber shares about being part of the Voices Together hymnal committee. “The goal of writing songs – or producing any art – together is not to produce a ‘big hit’ but to make something that is meaningful to individuals and to the community.” Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/camp-songs-anabaptist-voices
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for the members of Mennonite churches in Venezuela, as they extend the love of Jesus to their neighbors during a time when more than 90% of the population is living in poverty, and more than 75% are experiencing extreme poverty. Pray for the churches as they address both food insecurity and spiritual hunger. Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for WDC’s Gifts Discernment Committee, and pray for the Holy Spirit to guide their decisions as they prepare nominations for elected leadership positions to bring for delegate action at WDC’s annual assembly.
A memorial service will be held for Kenneth Schmidt on Saturday, June 11 at 11 am. You are welcome to attend in person or on line. Kenneth Schmidt is the son of Betty Schmidt of BCMC.
We offer sympathy to the family of Dean Koppes. Dean died at Kidron Bethel Village on May 30. Dean was a long time member of BCMC. Please remember his wife, Linda, in prayer. You can click on this link for Dean’s obituary. https://petersenfamilyfuneralhome.com/obituaries/dean-wilke-koppes/
We offer sympathy to the family of Orletta Wiebe. Orletta died June 8 at Schowalter Villa, Hesston. A memorial service is being planned and the date will be announced later.
Brad, Megan, Lincoln, & Lawrence Kohlman would like to invite our BCMC family to an ice cream social in our backyard – 707 Wheat Lane, Hesston, KS! Come & go from 6:30-8:00 pm on Sunday, June 12. We’ll have water, ice cream with toppings, and yard games. Bring a lawn chair and another drink if you’d like and join us for a fun evening! RSVPs appreciated to meganbkohlman@gmail.com.
Farewell Reception for Pastor Renee Reimer Join us for a come-and-go Farewell Reception for Renee Reimer on Monday, June 13, from 5 – 7 pm. We’ll be outside on the church lawn, wind and weather permitting.
This Week at BCMC: June 12-19, 2022 Sunday, June 12 10:30 am Faith Formation—Visitors welcome! Adult Classes (If meeting): Agape Class (Rm B8) Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Mosaic (Rm 20); Open Circle (Room 21); Seekers (Rm 28); Sojourners (Chapel) An Invitation from the Seekers Sunday School Class Today Seekers Sunday school will meet in the Fellowship Hall. Kamala Platt will read from her poetry book: “Gravity Prevails: and so does love”. Everyone is welcome 6:30 to 8 pm Come & go ice cream social at Brad, Megan, Lincoln, and Lawrence Kohlman’s house, 707 Wheat Lane, Hesston Monday, June 13 5-7 pm Come and go reception for Pastor Renee Reimer Tuesday, June 14 12 noon Mid Kansas Investment Club meeting in Fellowship Hall Sunday, June 19—Juneteenth 9:30 am Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz 10:30 am Faith Formation
Library Committee Announcement The Library theme for June and July is Caldecott and John Newbery Award Winners. We have many of these award winning books that would be of interest to both adults and children. Come check them out.
We are also continuing to accept and sell puzzles. Not only are they on the cart, but also below the new book section on the west wall. Just leave a suggested donation of $5 in the envelope and enjoy. We have a long list of books that we would like to add to our collection and this is a great way to support our efforts.
To fellow worshipers of Bethel College Mennonite Church: The screen study committee is grateful for the strong support that our fellowship has given to installing a screen in our sanctuary. We continue to believe that it will enhance worship and provide enhanced experiences for conferences, weddings and other events. We have been receiving gifts and commitments to cover the requested 1/4th of the total cost of the project prior to beginning installation. To date, we have received a little less than ½ of the required $11,250.00. McClellan Sound has advised us that there will be a significant price increase for the projector and screen in the middle of June. So there is some urgency for us to fulfill the balance of the “tithe” very soon so that we can begin the installation. We request and encourage those able to contribute toward the project to do so very soon. These contributions can be in the form or cash donations or pledges to be completed at a later time. Thanks, Bill Swartley, Church Board member
Faith Formation Commission recognizes that attending summer camps is not cheap, but that it is an extremely valuable part of faith formation for our young people. We have some scholarship funding available to assist families with covering the cost of registering for the 2022 camping season. We also hope to have funds available after the camping season to provide some amount of reimbursement to all families with campers. Please contact Mary Ellen Hodge or Pastor Todd Schlosser if you’d like assistance with camp registration this summer. These funds are only available to campers who camp at Mennonite camps. We encourage you to get registered early for an awesome summer of camping experiences! If anyone at BCMC would like to support our young people attending camp you can feel free to donate to our Mennonite Camping Scholarship Fund by writing a check made out to BCMC (with Mennonite Camp Scholarship in the memo line) and drop it off on Sunday morning or in the church office.
Pride Month at BCMC During June Pride month celebrating LGBTQIA persons, we have pride flags flying all around our church campus. In addition, these flags are in celebration of the recent resolutions passed at the MCUSA Special Delegate Assembly that open up access to the LGBTQIA persons in MCUSA and acknowledge previous harm that has been done to them by the church. Also throughout the month of June, the BCMC Supportive Communities Network banner will be at the front of the sanctuary. Finally, members from our congregation will also be attending a Unity March and potluck on June 25 in Wichita sponsored by Wichita Pride. Go to their website for more details. If you are planning on attending, please contact Nathan Koontz so he can get you a button.
Life Enrichment returns to Bethel College with the start of the fall 2022 semester – but It will be on a different day. Life Enrichment resumes Thursday, Aug. 25, and will be on Thursdays thereafter. Place and time remain the same: Krehbiel Auditorium, 9:30 a.m. See https://www.bethelks.edu/academics/convocation-lectures/life-enrichment for more information, and look for a brochure coming later this summer.
Bethel College’s Prison Theater Project is currently in process, with director John McCabe-Juhnke, Bethel students and several men from the Hutchinson Correctional Facility minimum-security East Unit. The public performance at HCF is Friday, July 1, and the project is looking for an audience. If you’d like to go, contact Offender-Victim Ministries in Newton at 316-283-2038 (Mon.-Thurs.) before June 24.
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation!
June WDC Resource Library Final Thursday Book Discussion: “At no other time in history or place in the world have so many people understood themselves to be suffering from mental health problems.” In Not Quite Fine: Mental Health, Faith, and Showing Up for One Another, author Carlene Hill Byron calls and equips the church to step up for such a time as this. Join us Thursday, June 30 at 7:00pm via Zoom to discuss the book. Register by emailing crlib@mennowdc.org
Summer Story Hour–God Rocks! – All children ages 3-8 in the central Kansas area are invited to God Rocks! Summer Story Hour at the WDC Conference Resource Library 2517 N. Main in North Newton. Fun Stories and Activities with Leader, Marjie Warkentine and Resource Library Director, Jennie Wintermote. Mondays at 10:00am on June 27, July 11, 18, 25 & August 1 & 8. Register for Story Hour here.
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here For Mennonite Central Committee In Touch press here For Mennonite World Conference press here For Anabaptist Disabilities Network Connections press here To register for Anabaptist Disabilities Network Webinar “Dementia and Congregational Care” press here For Mennonite Education Agency New Scholarship to Dismantle Racism press here
The Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp June newsletter is here! (Press on the word June)
MENNONITE CHURCH USA ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mennonite Church USA (MC USA) has named Lorraine Stutzman Amstutz as denominational minister for Peace and Justice. In this role, she will resource conference ministers, conferences and pastors with opportunities to strengthen capacity and engagement in Christ-centered peace and justice, as well as serve as a liaison and coordinator for peace and justice initiatives throughout MC USA. Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/news/peace-justice
Menno Snapshots Sue Park-Hur, director of racial/ethnic engagement for Mennonite Church USA, reflects on the 1992 L.A. Riots/Uprising. “Even after 30 years, we still have a difficult time agreeing on how to name the event, because it impacted the various communities so differently.” Read her reflections here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/gathered-to-remember-testify
In times that “try our souls,” it is easy to be tempted into the narrative that there is a good and a bad side. In her Menno Snapshots blog, Carolyn E. Yoder wrestles with what it means to be an Anabaptist in times like these. “These are the times that try our nonresistant/nonviolent souls. May they also be the times that accelerate the rising consciousness of another way to meet evil in the world.” Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/times-that-try-our-souls
A longtime Anabaptist and war tax resister, Harold A. (“H.A.”) Penner, shared a letter that he and his wife, Barbara, sent to the Internal Revenue Service, that said, “We conscientiously object on religious grounds to the payment of that portion of our federal income taxes that supports war making and militarism…” Read the full letter here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/tax-resistance-letter
In her Menno Snapshots blog, Kate Wentland discusses her experience cooking traditional Ukrainian foods with friends. “My friends and I cooked together to eat in solidarity, to talk about the war and what it means to offer a peaceful witness, and to donate together.” Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/ukrainian-dinner-party
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Voluntary Service participants, serving through Mennonite Mission Network, are in their final months at their unit houses and volunteer placements. Pray for them as they bring closure to relationships in their hosting communities and find ways to implement what they have learned, as they move into their futures. Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC congregations in pastoral transition, that they would experience God’s faithfulness, love and guidance during times of change and uncertainty.
