Author Archives: Monica Lichti

Announcements for August 21 – 28, 2022

Announcement about the Faith Formation Sunday School Parent Orientation Meeting Change of Date

The Sunday school parent orientation meeting has been postponed until August 28 (10:30 to 11:30 in the sanctuary) due to the unexpected unavailability of the presenters. We are sorry for any inconvenience. The meeting will still be recorded for any parents who are unable to attend in person. All documents requiring signatures will be emailed to those who are unable to attend. We encourage attendance for those who are interested in hearing about the new way Sunday school will function this year!

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
August 21, 2022

Prelude—Machs mit mir, Gott, nach deiner Güt (Johann Gotfried Walther) and Liebster Jesu, wir sind hier (Walther)—Karen Schlabaugh, organ

Christ Candle Lighting

Welcome and Prayer—Dave Linscheid

*Hymn—Healer of Our Every Ill—VT 644

Kin-dom Reports—Riley King, Raylene Hinz-Penner

Children’s Conversation—Esther Koontz

Scripture Reading—Luke 13:10-17

Sermon—Standing with the Woman—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—There Is a Line of Women—VT 546

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—For the Healing of the Nations—VT 705

*Benediction—Nathan Koontz

Postlude—Toccata in F Major (Buxtehude)—Karen Schlabaugh, organ

* You are invited to stand
VT = Voices Together
Audio visual—Ben Lichti
Pastors—Nathan Koontz, Todd Schlosser

This Week at BCMC: August 21—28, 2022

Sunday, August 21—Live stream (YouTube) link for this Sunday is:
https://youtu.be/fj5u-d12SiQ

10:30 am #Church Too Discussion in Fellowship Hall

10:30 am    Faith Formation—Everyone is 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, August 22
3 pm       Springs Forth meeting in Room 14
Wednesday, August 24
7:30 pm Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the Sanctuary Chancel area
Thursday, August 25
2 pm       Hospitality Commission meeting in Room 14
7 pm       Deacon Commission meeting in Room 14
Sunday, August 28
9:30 am Worship Service with sermon by Sara Dick
We welcome BCMC member and Et Cetera Shop General Manager, Sara Dick, who will bring us the sermon on Sunday, August 28. The title of her sermon will be, “Push/Pull/Welcome!”
10:30 am Faith Formation

The Abuse Prevention and Response Committee will continue in the month of August to read the book, #Church Too. Sunday, August 21, will be spent sharing reactions to the book, in Fellowship Hall. 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. – Jill Robb, APRC chair

New Task Group:
The Church Board has approved the formation of a task group to lead the church in finding ways for our congregation to move beyond land acknowledgement to tangible actions seeking justice for the harms which Indigenous peoples have suffered and continue to suffer today. We will discuss joining the Repair Network of Mennonite congregations for education, solidarity and reparative action alongside Indigenous peoples. The first action of the BCMC task group will be to help support MCC’s “Loss of Turtle Island” experience for members of our congregation. If you would like to join the task group, contact Nathan Koontz or Ada Schmidt-Tieszen. Raylene Hinz-Penner will convene the task group.

BCMC Youth Group (high schoolers) will begin the year with games and snacks in the fellowship hall on Wednesday, August 31st from 7:30-8:30!

Address changes for your BCMC Directories:
· Esther Thieszen is in Kidron Bethel healthcare: 3054 Ivy Ct., Room 27W, North Newton, KS 67117
· Nancy Hilty will be moving to Kidron Bethel Assisted Living: 3056 Ivy Court, Apt. 22, North Newton, KS 67117

If you are willing to help in the nursery during worship this fall please email Margaret Toews at mtoews1@cox.net. One Sunday or several, all help is welcome!

The Chancel Choir is beginning a new year. Rehearsals will be on Wednesday, at 7:30 pm and will begin on August 24th. Riley King will be directing. Anyone, from HS Freshmen to seasoned singers are welcome.
When Harvey County is in red status indicating high risk for COVID, BCMC requires that we wear masks when in the presence of others in the church building. The church staff monitors this on a weekly basis and adjusts masking and other policies accordingly.”

The Chancel Hand Bell Choir will begin ringing with a rehearsal on Thursday, September 8. We meet at 6:30 pm in room B7. We welcome anyone who has musical note reading ability to ring. No prior ringing experience is necessary. A smile and a willingness to learn is required.

The Church Pictorial Directories Have Arrived! If you had your picture taken or submitted a picture for the directory, you can pick up your copy of the pictorial directory in the Gathering Place before or after church Sunday morning during the month of August. Thank you for your participation and patience during the completion of this project. -The Hospitality Commission

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: Krehbiel Auditorium, 9:30 am. This Thursday, August 25
9:30 am “The Thresher Way” by Jon C. Gering, president, and Megan Kershner, dean of vocational experiences, Bethel College
10:30 am Coffee Break
10:50 am “Learning from the Kansas People” with Larry Hatteberg

Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission (AIMM), a partner of Mennonite Mission Network, will share ministry updates, Sunday, August 21, 6:30 pm at First Mennonite Church, 429 E. 1st Street, Newton. Co-executive Coordinator John Fumana and his wife Lucie from Democratic Republic of Congo are the presenters. For info contact aimm@aimmint.org or 574-535-0077.

Subscription to Anabaptist World
It is time to renew our group subscription to Anabaptist World, a monthly magazine featuring voices from across the Anabaptist-Mennonite world. If you sign up with the congregation’s plan, you receive this publication at the discounted rate of $39.   If interested in joining the group plan, please contact Monica Lichti in the church office by August 29. New subscribers can also receive a one-year subscription for the discounted rate of $39.
Email the church office at:  office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org
Bring in or mail your $39.00 payment to the office or place it in the offering plate on Sunday. Be sure to mark your checks with “Anabaptist World” in the memo line.
If you are currently receiving Anabaptist World through the BCMC group subscription plan it will expire November 25, 2022.  Anabaptist World would like us to renew the subscription now so that you will receive the magazine without interruption.

Kauffman Museum at Bethel College is seeking a graphic designer who has experience with digital and print design, as well as social media, web and IT. Interest or experience in museum exhibition design and fabrication preferred. This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position. To see the complete job description and to apply, go to the https://www.bethelks.edu/about/who-we-are/career-opportunities/current-position-openings/graphic-designer-kauffman-museum For more information, contact Andi Andres at Kauffman Museum: asa@bethelks.edu or 316-283-1612.

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

Women and Girls Retreat on September 10-11 at Camp Mennoscah! All women are invited! The theme is Women’s Voices. Girls in Grade 5 and up are also invited to come, although there will not be any separate programming for them.Click here for the Retreat Brochure and Registration Form. Deadline for registration is August 31. Contact Darlene Powers, dpowers11@cox.net for questions or more information. Come have a fun and relaxing weekend!

Other events and happenings:

Camp Mennoscah Annual Meeting and Dedication of the Renovated Campfire Amphitheater on September 18! Join us for an evening of song, popcorn, and generic pop, as well as updates and information on the year at Camp Mennoscah. Time is yet to be determined. (It’s like a mini-Camp Sing!)
Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat on Oct. 28-30! Crafters and scrapbookers are all invited to come for a weekend of creativity and friends. Lodging will be in the Retreat Center and cropping/crafting will be in the Main Camp dining hall. Space heaters will be available for both areas since the repairs for the furnaces will not be completed. Register here!
Pardon the Mess! Camp Mennoscah is cleaning out and organizing maintenance sheds and other buildings. Items in the front “yard” will slowly find new homes. Thank you for your understanding!
Camp staff work hours vary depending on scheduled events for the week. The office assistant also works part-time from home. (Whenever a group is at camp, a staff person will be on duty.) Thank you for understanding! We will be in touch as soon as possible.

Newton Et Cetera Shop Announcements

Newton Et Cetera Shop invites you to become a volunteer! Help us to share God’s love with all creation by volunteering in clothing, clerking, recycling, linens, housewares or one of our other departments. If you’d like to join us, please stop by, call us at 316.283.9461, or attend one of our upcoming volunteer orientations to tell us what interests you: Thursday 9/15/22 5-6 PM or Thursday 10/20/22 6-7 PM. We hope to hear from you soon!

Newton Et Cetera Shop invites you to attend the Loss of Turtle Island Event at Bethel College’s Memorial Hall on Sunday, October 23, 4:00-5:30 PM. Please join us to learn more about the historic relationship between European settlers and the Indigenous nations, the original inhabitants, of the land we now call the United States of America. Blankets represent the land and participants represent distinct Indigenous nations who experience colonization, genocide, broken treaties, forced removal, assimilation and termination — all in the spirit of the Doctrine of Discovery. This event is in-person only, and is also sponsored by Mennonite Central Committee, Bethel College, and Bethel College Mennonite Church.

Shop to support MCC’s work with welcome and migration on Saturday, November 12, 10-5:30 PM! Proceeds at Newton Et Cetera Shop support Mennonite Central Committee and our local partners year-round. On Nov. 12 we’re doing something different: Every single dime and dollar you spend at the shop will go to MCC, not just the proceeds! We’ll also have someone from MCC here to talk more about the work they’re doing, and how shopping, donating and volunteering at MCC Thrift Shops helps to support this work. Mark your calendars now for some holiday shopping to support MCC and to learn more about their work with people on the move!

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation!

For Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level click here

Mennonite Disaster Service Volunteer Updates
In early August, torrential rains fell in Eastern Kentucky, washing out homes and roads forcing people to seek shelter on rooftops. MDS is seeking early response volunteers to serve in Hindman, KY starting August 21. Learn more and sign up to volunteer by calling 800-241-8111 or emailing dfrey@mds.org!

Weekly Volunteer Opportunities

Hindman, KY – 2022 Flooding Early Response
Aug 21-27; up to 10 people
Aug 28-Sept 3; up to 10 people
Sept 4-10; up to 10 people
Sep 11-17; up to 10 people
Sep 18-24; up to 10 people
Sep 25-Oct 1; up to 10 people

Jennings, LA – 2020 Hurricanes
Aug 21-27; up to 12 people
Aug 28-Sep 3; up to 12 people
Sep 11-17; up to 9 people
Sep 18-24; up to 10 people
Sep 25-Oct 1; up to 12 people
Oct 2-8; up to 12 people
Oct 9-15; up to 12 people
Oct 16-22; up to 12 people
Oct 23-29; up to 10 people
Oct 30-Nov 5; up to 12 people
Nov 6-12; up to 12 people
Nov 20-26; up to 12 people
Nov 27-Dec 3; up to 12 people
Dec 11-17; up to 12 people

Monte Lake, BC – 2021 Fire
Aug 28-Sept 3; up to 5 people
Sept 4-10; up to 4 people
Sept 11-17; up to 9 people
Sept 18-24; up to 10 people
Sept 24-Oct 1; up to 6 people

Paradise, CA – 2018 Camp Fire
Oct 2-8; up to 12 people
Oct 9-15; up to 4 people
Oct 16-22; up to 12 people
Oct 23-29; up to 12 people
Oct 30-Nov 5; up to 9 people
Nov 20-26; up to 12 people
Nov 27-Dec 3; up to 12 people

McAllen, TX – 2018 Storms
Oct 16-22; up to 12 people
Oct 23-29; up to 12 people
Oct 30-Nov 5; up to 12 people
Nov 6-12; up to 12 people
Nov 13-19; up to 12 people
Nov 20-26; up to 12 people
Nov 27-Dec 3; up to 12 people
Dec 4-10; up to 12 people
Dec 11-17; up to 12 people

For more information or to serve, please contact:
Canadian projects: Clara Flores at 866-261-1274 or email cflores@mds.org.

U.S. projects: Deanna Frey at 800-241-8111 or email dfrey@mds.org View Weekly Volunteer Opportunities

Leadership Volunteer Opportunities

Hindman, KY – 2022 Flooding Early Response
Investigator (signing up jobs), Aug 27-Sep 3
Investigator (signing up jobs), Sep 3-24
Assistant Cook, Sep 3-24

Jennings, LA – 2020 Hurricanes
Three Crew Leaders, Aug 13-27
Two Crew Leaders, Aug 27-Sep 24
Head Cook, Aug 27-Sep 24
Project Director, Oct 26-Nov 26
Project Director, Nov 23-Dec 17

Paradise, CA – 2018 Camp Fire
Construction Supervisor, Nov 23-Dec 17

Crisfield, MD – 2021 Flooding
Project Director, Aug 14-27
Project Director, Aug 27-Sep 30

Monte Lake, BC – 2021 White Rock Fire
Crew Leader, Aug 14-27
Crew Leader, Aug 14-Sep 3
Head Cook, Sep 11-Oct 1
Assistant Cook, Sep 4-Oct 1
Two Crew Leaders, Sep 4-Oct 1
Project Director, Oct 12-29
Office Manager, Oct 15-29
Head Cook, Oct 1-29
Assistant Cook, Oct 1-29
Two Crew Leaders, Oct 1-29

For more information or to serve, please contact: Canadian residents: Kelsey Friesen at 866-261-1274 or email kfriesen@mds.org

U.S. residents: Josh Carson at 800-241-8111 or email jcarson@mds.org

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond click here

Kidron Bethel Village, a Bluestem community located in North Newton, KS, is seeking an individual to serve as its full-time chaplain.
The primary responsibilities of this position include:
Provide spiritual support for residents, their families, and staff members.
Provide ongoing opportunities and leadership for residents’ spiritual growth
Support resident, families and staff during times of transition or special need
Provide services for the bereaved
Act as a staff liaison and resident advocate
Contribute to the planning and decision-making process at Kidron Bethel Village and Bluestem Communities, Inc.
Serve as liaison and resource person in the wider church and local community

Qualifications and Experience:
Hold a Bible or Seminary degree
Have a minimum of one unit of Clinical Pastoral Education
Hold ministerial credentials in good standing within a recognized denominational body
Prefer three (3) years of pastoral leadership experience

Interested persons should contact Linda Peters, Executive Director of Kidron Bethel Village at: lindap@bluestemks.org

For Mennonite Women USA – A Women’s Leadership Conference September 29-October 2 click here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

Mennonite Church USA Executive Director Glen Guyton was one of many faith leaders to sign a statement calling for President Biden to re-enter the Iran nuclear deal. Read the statement here: mennoniteusa.org/faith-leaders-iran

Menno Snapshots
Earlier this year, Linda Gehman Peachey and Sue Park-Hur of Mennonite Church USA’s Women in Leadership project led nine women in a training on the “Laboring Toward Wholeness” anti-patriarchy curriculum. The women discussed why women and their welfare are often overlooked. Read their reflections in, “What about the women?” mennoniteusa.org/what-about-women

Menno Snapshots
What is peace and where is it found? Chidi Ihezuoh, associate pastor with Los Angeles Faith Chapel, addresses this question in his blog, “The peace of God is not of this world.” mennoniteusa.org/peace-god-this-world

Do you want to stay up to date on Mennonite Church USA happenings, blogs, news and webinars? Sign up for PeaceMail and get weekly updates on what is happening in the church! mennoniteusa.org/peacemail

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network began a new Enviados (Sent) cohort on Friday. Pray for participants in this Spanish-language, 12-module course for church planters. Pray, also, for the facilitator, Mauricio Chenlo, Mission Network’s training and resourcing specialist for church planting.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for God’s strength and joy to be with all those who are serving in WDC leadership roles, as they begin a new year of service following the recent WDC Annual Assembly.

View the worship service for August 14, 2022

Press here for the August 14 Worship Service

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
August 14, 2022

Prelude— How Firm A Foundation (Burkhardt) and Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow (Burkhardt)–Karen Unruh, organ

Christ Candle Lighting

Welcome—Adam Robb

Prayer—Tobin Wise

*Hymn—Holy Spirit, Come with Power—VT 57

Children’s Conversation—Jill Robb

Worship Music—Rebecca Schloneger, violin—Come Thou Fount

Scripture Reading—Luke 12:22-34—Becca Schlosser

Sermon—Where Your Treasure Is—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—For the Fruit of All Creation—VT 124

Prayers of God’s People—Adam Robb

*Hymn—Go, My Friends, in Grace—VT 810—Karen Unruh, organ; Rebecca Schloneger, violin

Benediction—Nathan Koontz

Postlude— A Rejoicing (Fedak)—Karen Unruh, organ

* You are invited to stand

VT = Voices Together

Audio visual—Ken Lamp

Pastors—Nathan Koontz, Todd Schlosser

YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/lhetHSkGkJ4

Announcements for August 14 – 21, 2022

This Sunday – August 14, 2022 – Worship Service will begin at 10 am

Due to the Bethel College new student orientation schedule, Bethel College Mennonite Church will be having worship service at 10 am this coming Sunday. We are sorry for the late notice. If you know of others who might not have email, please let them know of this change.

Based on CDC Guidelines Harvey County is in red status indicating high risk for COVID. To care for each other we require that we wear masks at BCMC while in the presence of others in the church building and in worship. While the county is in red status we will not have coffee fellowship time. This is reviewed weekly and will be adjusted accordingly; check your emails from BCMC.

Bethel College students are returning. Some have returned on Friday (August 5) and the rest are returning by the 15th. Please welcome students if you see them on campus or at the church.
Bethel College Relations Team

BCMC Welcome for New Bethel College Students
On Sunday August 14th BCMC will welcome the new students at Bethel College to our church. It is a large incoming class, numbering over 150 students from many different places. The gathering will start with our normal worship service to be followed by some refreshments (outdoors as able). While this is a wonderful opportunity for us to show hospitality, we are also aware of the possible COVID implications. While everyone will be required to wear masks, please be aware of the opportunity to view the service on line if you so choose. We also invite all who feel comfortable to join the students for refreshments following the service (whether you view on line or in person) to meet and greet and to offer a warm welcome to Bethel and BCMC

This Week at BCMC: August 14—21, 2022
Sunday, August 14—Live stream (YouTube) link for this Sunday is:
https://youtu.be/lhetHSkGkJ4
New students at Bethel College will join BCMC worship today—afterwards you are invited to join the students on the BCMC lawn for refreshments
10:30 am    Faith Formation—Everyone is 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)
Today from 4 to 6 pm   Mentor/Mentee Event in Fellowship Hall
Tuesday, August 16—Pastor Todd Schlosser will be away from the office today.
Sunday, August 21
9:30 am    Worship Service with sermon by Nathan Koontz
10:30 am Faith Formation—Sunday school parent orientation meeting in the sanctuary—will also be live-streamed

We welcome BCMC member and Et Cetera Shop General Manager, Sara Dick, who will bring us the sermon on Sunday, August 28. The title of her sermon will be, “Push/Pull/Welcome!”

Mentor-Mentee Event for your calendar: Event will be Sun., Aug. 14, 4 to 6 pm in the BCMC Fellowship Hall.

Faith Formation will be hosting a Sunday school parent orientation meeting on August 21st from 10:30-11:30 am. This meeting will be recorded and all documents requiring signatures will be emailed to those who are unable to attend. We encourage attendance for those who are interested in hearing about the new way Sunday school will function this year!

If you are willing to help in the nursery during worship this fall please email Margaret Toews at mtoews1@cox.net. One Sunday or several, all help is welcome!

Thank you very much for a successful month financially. July receipts were $9000 more than expenses. Yay! However, we are not out of the woods yet with our receipts for the year lagging expenses for the year by $34,000 but we are moving in the right direction. The finance committee sincerely thanks you for your effort and encourages you to keep up the good work.
– Finance Committee

BCMC Aug. 7 Offering: General Fund $6,857; Living Stones $340; Women’s Fellowship $50; Mission Quilters $132.

NEW HOPE SHELTER ANNOUNCEMENT
BCMC will be providing volunteers and meals at New Hope Shelter from Aug. 10 to 16. Please remember these faithful volunteers in your prayers. We still need more people willing to serve as evening volunteers at New Hope. We do not have enough volunteers to fill all of our commitments there next week. Please consider helping with this important ministry. If you have questions, contact Valetta Seymour at seymour2314@gmail.com, 620-217-7536.
There will be a New Hope volunteer training on Aug. 25 at 7 pm at New Hope. Please let Valetta know if you would like to take the training.

Email the church office at: office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org

Bring in or mail your $39.00 payment to the office or place it in the offering plate on Sunday. Be sure to mark your checks with “Anabaptist World” in the memo line.

If you are currently receiving Anabaptist World through the BCMC group subscription plan it will expire November 25, 2022. Anabaptist World would like us to renew the subscription now so that you will receive the magazine without interruption.

Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission (AIMM), a partner of Mennonite Mission Network, will host a gathering to share ministry updates on Sunday, August 21, at 6:30 p.m. at First Mennonite Church, 429 E. 1st Street, Newton, KS. Co-executive Coordinator John Fumana and his wife Lucie from Democratic Republic of Congo are planning to be present. For more information contact aimm@aimmint.org or 574-535-0077.

The Abuse Prevention and Response Committee will continue in the month of August to read the book, #Church Too. Sunday August 21 will be spent sharing reactions to the book. 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 a local independent bookstore. If demand is high we will figure out a way to have copies available in the church office for purchase. – Jill Robb, APRC chair

The current BCMC Library theme is “Committee Book Recommendations”. Our current members, picked a few of our favorites from our wonderful collection and they are now shelved in back of the library desk. Come in, check one (or two or three) out and see if you agree with us. Carol Flickinger, Rose Haury, Barb Koontz, Sondra Koontz, Kathryn Simmons, Margaret Goering.

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

Work & Play Day on August 20! Camp Mennoscah has projects to complete and plenty to do after a busy, fun summer. You are invited to be part of this camping ministry through fellowship and service! Projects for all ages and weather are available. Let us know you’re coming so we can be prepared for you! Bring your lunch and a water bottle. The day will start at 8:30 at the maintenance shed. Contact Olivia at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org to sign up.

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 am. See https://www.bethelks.edu/academics/convocation-lectures/life-enrichment for more information.

Kauffman Museum at Bethel College is seeking a graphic designer who has experience with digital and print design, as well as social media, web and IT. Interest or experience in museum exhibition design and fabrication preferred. This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position. To see the complete job description and to apply, go to the https://www.bethelks.edu/about/who-we-are/career-opportunities/current-position-openings/graphic-designer-kauffman-museum For more information, contact Andi Andres at Kauffman Museum: asa@bethelks.edu or 316-283-1612.

Bluestem U, a lifelong learning program for individuals age 55 and better, is enrolling now for its first semester that will begin in September. The fall 2022 semester will feature three courses hosted by Hesston College and Schowalter Villa – “Prairie Landscaping 101” taught by Brad Guhr, “Happy Habits from Positive Psychology” taught by Kevin Wilder, and “Buggies, Bonnets and Boundaries: A Study of Amish Faith, Life and Culture” taught by John Sharp. Each course is $50. For more information and registration, go to bluestemu.org or call 316-836-4846. Bluestem U is a partnership between Bluestem Communities, Bethel College and Hesston College.

Fall Book Study on Healing Haunted Histories – Sept. 8-Dec. 1, 2022 – Elaine Enns, co-author of Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler Discipleship of Decolonization, will be leading an online, intensive book study this fall for the Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery Coalition. Two-hour sessions will be every other Thursday, 6-8 pm Central Time, on Sept 8 and 22, Oct 6 and 20, Nov 3 and 17, and Dec 1. This book encourages personal and collective work toward decolonization. It asks those of us who are settlers, immigrants and displaced peoples to do our own pre-work of integrating our ancestral stories, so we can see more clearly and show up in solidarity with Indigenous peoples. See the Western District Conference website for more information.

Kauffman Museum at Bethel College is seeking a graphic designer who has experience with digital and print design, as well as social media, web and IT. Interest or experience in museum exhibition design and fabrication preferred. This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position. To see the complete job description and to apply, go to the https://www.bethelks.edu/about/who-we-are/career-opportunities/current-position-openings/graphic-designer-kauffman-museum For more information, contact Andi Andres at Kauffman Museum: asa@bethelks.edu or 316-283-1612.

Western District Women in Mission (WDWM) Retreat Committee announces the annual Women and Girls Retreat at Camp Mennoscah on Sept. 10 & 11. ALL women are invited to attend! The theme is: Women’s Voices. Girls in Grade 5 and up are also invited to come, although there will not be any separate programming for them. See below for the Retreat Brochure and Registration Form. Deadline for registration is August 31. Contact Darlene Powers, dpowers11@cox.net for questions or more information. Come have a fun and relaxing weekend!
https://mcusercontent.com/6c82c57d5882e890a1945358a/files/48f1f3e2-272e-34fe-c248-5b8e402f0f35/2022_Retreat_registration_form.pdf

https://mcusercontent.com/6c82c57d5882e890a1945358a/files/d28ebae5-e7f1-dbe0-aa1c-8ef334217ef7/2022_Retreat_Registration_Brochure.pdf

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation!

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Anabaptist Disabilities Network, a ministry partner of Mennonite Church USA (MC USA), has created a study guide to help congregations understand and implement ideas from the recently passed “Mennonite Church USA Accessibility Resolution.” It includes study materials, reflection questions and information for instructional use intended for use over four weeks. Learn more here: https://www.anabaptistdisabilitiesnetwork.org/Resources/Pages/Accessibility-Resolution-Study-Guide.aspx

Mennonite Church USA (MC USA) is now offering a wide variety of MennoCon21 resources, including the evening sermons, seminars and Bible studies, for free on the MC USA website and YouTube channel. Learn more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/resources-menncon21

Menno Snapshots
Talking about money in church can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! In his blog, “Mini money messages,” Beryl Jantzi of Everence encourages church leaders to talk about money in simple, bite-sized pieces. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/mini-money-messages

Learn, Pray, Join: Welcoming EveryBODY
In our churches, do we think about those with disabilities as full and useful members of our communities, or are their gifts and needs an afterthought? Katie Mansfield of Eastern Mennonite University’s Center for Justice and Peacebuilding explores how our churches might put more of an emphasis on inclusion and “consider disability as a first thought” in her blog, “How do we recognize wholeness?” Read it here: mennoniteusa.org/recognize-wholeness

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Join Naomi Leary, Mennonite Mission Network’s regional co-administrator for North America, as she praises God for renewed vigor in service programs across eight locations in the United States. After two years of decreased participation, due to the pandemic, the number of participants has doubled since last year. Pray for the 16 Mennonite Voluntary Service participants and the 19 Service Adventure participants — 12 youth and seven unit leaders.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: As a new school begins, pray for wisdom for Sunday school coordinators, teachers, youth sponsors and mentors who guide faith formation for children, youth and adults in WDC congregations.

View the worship service for August 7, 2022

Press here for Aug. 7 worship service

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
August 7, 2022

Prelude— Come, Let Us All Unite to Sing—John Mark Koontz and Josh Bergman

Christ Candle Lighting—Dianne Epp

Land Acknowledgement

Welcome and Prayer—Dianne Epp

*Hymn—Come, Let Us All Unite to Sing—VT #7

Children’s Conversation—Megan Kohlman

Kin-dom Report—Western District Conference Assembly Delegates

Special Music—John Mark Koontz and Josh Bergman

Scripture Reading—Dave Linscheid—Hebrews 10:19-25

Sermon—United in Purpose; Together in Love— Todd Schlosser

*Hymn—In Christ There is no East or West—VT #390

Prayers of God’s People—Dianne Epp

*Hymn—You Shall Go Out With Joy—VT 847

Benediction—Todd Schlosser

Postlude— You Shall Go Out With Joy–John Mark Koontz and Josh Bergman

* You are invited to stand

VT = Voices Together

Keyboardist: Valetta Seymour

Audio visual—Francis Toews

Pastors—Nathan Koontz, Todd Schlosser

Announcements for August 7 – 14, 2022

This Week at BCMC: August 7—14, 2022

Sunday, August 7—Live stream (YouTube) link for this Sunday is:
https://youtu.be/t7Qei007Jcc
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)
Tuesday, August 9
12 pm          Mid-Kansas Investment Club meeting in Fellowship Hall
Sunday, August 14—New students at Bethel College will join BCMC worship today—afterwards you are invited to join the students on the BCMC lawn for refreshments
9:30 am      Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz
10:30 am    Faith Formation—Visitors welcome!
4 pm            Mentor-Mentee Event in Fellowship Hall

Mentor-Mentee Event for your calendar: Event will be Sun., Aug. 14, 4 to 6 pm in the BCMC Fellowship Hall.

BCMC July 31 Offering: General Fund $5,575; Living Stones $155.

We offer sympathy to the family of Marty Warkentine. Marty died July 28. Memorial services will be announced later by the family.

We offer sympathy to Joe and Lil Peters on the death of Joe’s father, Carl Peters, at the age of 97. Carl died Monday, August 1, in Henderson, NE. The memorial service will be August 13, 10:30 am at Bethesda Mennonite Church in Henderson.

Change of address for your BCMC directories:
Leland and Dilores Rempel Suderman, 3056 Ivy Court, #20, North Newton, KS 67117.
Lee’s email:  leesuderman@cox.net
Di’s email:  ldsuderman@cox.net
Lee’s cell phone: 316-680-9031
Di’s cell phone: 316-680-9030

The Abuse Prevention and Response Committee will continue in the month of August to read the book, #Church Too. Sunday August 21 will be spent sharing reactions to the book. 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 a local independent bookstore. If demand is high we will figure out a way to have copies available in the church office for purchase. – Jill Robb, APRC chair

The current BCMC Library theme is “Committee Book Recommendations”. Our current members, picked a few of our favorites from our wonderful collection and they are now shelved in back of the library desk. Come in, check one (or two or three) out and see if you agree with us. Carol Flickinger, Rose Haury, Barb Koontz, Sondra Koontz, Kathryn Simmons, Margaret Goering.

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

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. A congregational survey has been completed. The consultants are currently in the process of interviewing 35 individual members of the congregation, gathering additional information from outside sources, and analyzing survey results. A preliminary report for congregational feedback will be shared with the congregation on a Sunday morning sometime in September or October. The final report will be completed before Advent. The 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!

Assistant Treasurer Transitions:
Over the last months there have been several transitions in the volunteer role of assistant treasurer, an important position appointed by the Board. It is with deep gratitude that we recognize and thank Nancy Hilty and Lois Goertzen for their competence, dedication, and long service in this role. The Church Board was pleased to approve Mary Ann Boschman and Bonnie Epp as our new assistant treasurers and recognize and thank Richard Friesen for his ongoing work as a volunteer assistant treasurer who manages software that tracks congregational giving, produces quarterly contribution reports, helps analyze giving patterns, and trains new assistant treasurers. Thanks to all these invaluable volunteers!

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.
https://forms.gle/v5q4uWeY4XE8w6vX7

New Task Group:
The Church Board has approved the formation of a task group to lead the church in finding ways for our congregation to move beyond land acknowledgement to tangible actions seeking justice for the harms which Indigenous peoples have suffered and continue to suffer today. We will discuss joining the Repair Network of Mennonite congregations for education, solidarity and reparative action alongside Indigenous peoples. The first action of the BCMC task group will be to help support MCC’s “Loss of Turtle Island” experience for members of our congregation. If you would like to join the task group, contact Nathan Koontz or Ada Schmidt-Tieszen. Raylene Hinz-Penner will convene the task group.

Bluestem U, a lifelong learning program for individuals age 55 and better, is enrolling now for its first semester that will begin in September. The fall 2022 semester will feature three courses hosted by Hesston College and Schowalter Villa – “Prairie Landscaping 101” taught by Brad Guhr, “Happy Habits from Positive Psychology” taught by Kevin Wilder, and “Buggies, Bonnets and Boundaries: A Study of Amish Faith, Life and Culture” taught by John Sharp. Each course is $50. For more information and registration, go to bluestemu.org or call 316-836-4846. Bluestem U is a partnership between Bluestem Communities, Bethel College and Hesston College.

Fall Book Study on Healing Haunted Histories – Sept. 8-Dec. 1, 2022 – Elaine Enns, co-author of Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler Discipleship of Decolonization, will be leading an online, intensive book study this fall for the Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery Coalition. Two-hour sessions will be every other Thursday, 6-8 pm Central Time, on Sept 8 and 22, Oct 6 and 20, Nov 3 and 17, and Dec 1. This book encourages personal and collective work toward decolonization. It asks those of us who are settlers, immigrants and displaced peoples to do our own pre-work of integrating our ancestral stories, so we can see more clearly and show up in solidarity with Indigenous peoples. See the Western District Conference website for more information.

Everence will hold its Medicare workshop at its office in North Newton Tues., Aug 9 at 6:30 pm. Topics include, when and where to sign up for Medicare, what Medicare covers, plus an explanation of Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D.
The in-person workshop will be held at the Everence office: 3179 N. Main St. Suite 1B, North Newton. Those interested in attending should contact the Everence office at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com

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

Thank You!! – A BIG thank you to all who attended (in-person or virtually), supported and contributed to our 2022 WDC Annual Assembly this past weekend at Camp Copass in Denton, TX. It could not have happened without all those who volunteered their time and shared their experiences with us throughout the weekend. We hope everyone enjoyed the weekend and had safe travels home. If you are still interested in donating to help cover assembly costs, you can do so here.

Be sure to check out the highlights of last month’s Mennonite World Conference 2022 Assembly in Indonesia on this highlight video: https://mwc-cmm.org/resources/mwc-indonesia-2022-highlight-video Other recap videos are also available at this link.

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

Work & Play Day on August 20! Camp Mennoscah has projects to complete and plenty to do after a busy, fun summer. You are invited to be part of this camping ministry through fellowship and service! Projects for all ages and weather are available. Let us know you’re coming so we can be prepared for you! Bring your lunch and a water bottle. The day will start at 8:30 at the maintenance shed. End your day with a leisurely kayak ride or stroll to the sandbar. Contact Olivia at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org to sign up. Want to volunteer either before or after August 20? Call us!
Eke out those last bits of summer! Come visit Camp Mennoscah while the days are long and when the evenings are cool. Kayaks and canoes are available until the beginning of October. Trails and other fun activities are available year-round. Contact us at 620-297-3290 to reserve a time to be at camp in the midst of God’s creation!
Many thanks to the many volunteers of the 2022 summer–nurses, program directors, input leaders, counselors, kitchen staff, maintenance volunteers, and all the other delightful people who spent time at Camp Mennoscah! It has been a brilliant time with approx. 370 campers immersed in worship, friends, and caring relationships over 8 amazing camp weeks. Thank you for being part of these great experiences!
Pardon the Mess! Camp Mennoscah is cleaning out and organizing maintenance sheds and other buildings. Items in the front “yard” will slowly find new homes. Thank you for your understanding!
Groups are invited to set their own precautions based on the comfort level of their group. Please note the RV electrical hookups are not available due to safety concerns.
Camp staff work hours vary depending on scheduled events for the week. The office assistant also works part-time from home. (Whenever a group is at camp, a staff person will be on duty.) Thank you for understanding! We will be in touch as soon as possible.

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

Is your church engaged in work that combats poverty, dismantles racism, addresses immigration reform or reimagines policing? If so, Mennonite Church USA would like to invite you to apply for a Justice Fund grant to support this work! Read more about who qualifies and how to apply here: mennoniteusa.org/news/jf-applicants

Delegate Assembly
The Delegate Assembly is over, and decisions have been made. What has changed? What does it mean for my conference, my congregation and me? Mennonite Church USA Executive Board and staff members answer these questions and more in the “Special Session of the Delegate Assembly: What Now?” webinar. Watch the recording here: mennoniteusa.org/webinar-whatnow

Menno Snapshots
Clayton Gladish, pastor of Silverwood Mennonite Church, writes about how the passage of “A Resolution for Repentance and Transformation” can be an opportunity for us to widen the circle. Read his blog here: mennoniteusa.org/widening-circle

Menno Snapshots
Nature has a way of refreshing the soul, and Cheryl Mast has noticed this firsthand with students who have participated in the outdoor education program at Amigo Centre, a Mennonite Camp in Michigan. Read her blog, “The power of nature,” to learn more about how Mast has experienced students coming out of their shells while unplugging at camp. mennoniteusa.org/power-nature

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Deb Byler, serving with Mennonite Mission Network, was invited to Guatemala five years ago to train women for leadership positions in the Kekchi Mennonite Church. Praise God for the women who are currently providing leadership. Pray for them, and pray that God will give Deb the wisdom and energy to do what is essential before concluding her assignment next month.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for Camp Mennoscah as it concludes summer youth camps, and give thanks for WDC campers, leaders, volunteers and supporters who have participated in camp this summer.

View the worship service for July 31, 2022

Press here for the July 31 worship service

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
July 31, 2022

Prelude— Great Things He Has Done’ Medley (arr. Victor Labenske) and

For the Beauty of the Earth (arr. Chris Rice)—Meghan Rogers

Christ Candle Lighting—Brad Kohlman

Welcome and Prayer

*Hymn—Jesus Calls Us—VT 30

Children’s Conversation—Kathy Stucky

Worship Music—Antiphonal Celebration (McChesney)—Bell Quartet—Verlene Garber, director; Suzanne Burch, Marlene Ewert, Ben Lichti, Brenda Turner

Scripture Reading—Luke 12:13-21—Carolyn Penner

Sermon—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—Take My Life, and Let It Be—VT 759

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—God, Whose Giving—VT 745

Benediction—Nathan Koontz

Postlude—I Surrender All (arr. Victor Labenske)—Meghan Rogers

* You are invited to stand

VT = Voices Together

Audio visual—Ben Lichti

Pastors—Nathan Koontz, Todd Schlosser

Announcements for July 31-August 7, 2022

This Week at BCMC: July 31—August 7, 2022
Sunday, July 31—Live stream (YouTube) link for this Sunday is:
https://youtu.be/gQoTnZnOPO0
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, August 1
Pastor Todd Schlosser will not be in the church office today.
7 pm           Facilities Committee meeting in Fellowship Hall
Tuesday, August 2
6-9 pm        Event in Fellowship Hall
Thursday, August 4
7 pm            Church Board Meeting in Room 14
Sunday, August 7
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!

BCMC July 24 Offering: General Fund $2,572; Library Reserve Fund $10; Living Stones $5; Women’s Fellowship $50.

BCMC Budget Update: For June 2022, income was $35,070 and expenses were $39,637. For the year-to-date, income is $211,450 and expenses are $254,017. – The Finance Committee

New address for your directories: Weldon and Florence Schloneger have moved to Kidron Bethel Village. New address is 3004 Ivy Drive, North Newton, KS, 67117. Their cell phones and email addresses remain the same.

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

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. A congregational survey has been completed. The consultants are currently in the process of interviewing 35 individual members of the congregation, gathering additional information from outside sources, and analyzing survey results. A preliminary report for congregational feedback will be shared with the congregation on a Sunday morning sometime in September or October. The final report will be completed before Advent. The reference group of David Linscheid, Lois Preheim, Megan Kohlman, Ada Schmidt-Tieszen, and Todd Schlosser has been offering feedback to the consultants. Thank you

Reopening Task Group—Release and Thanks! The church board voted to release the Reopening Task Group from their duties. We owe a huge thank you to the group for steering our congregation through the last several years with consistency and wisdom! We recognize that Covid is not gone, but at this time Covid management will become decentralized with commissions and committees managing Covid precautions and decisions for events and activities in their charge. Individuals are expected to take whatever precautions each deems appropriate. The church will continue to livestream services for those who choose to view services from home. Masks will be available for in-person worship and events.

BCMC Welcome for New Bethel College Students
On Sunday August 14th BCMC will welcome the new students at Bethel College to our church. It is a large incoming class, numbering over 150 students from many different places. The gathering will start with our normal worship service to be followed by some refreshments (outdoors as able). While this is a wonderful opportunity for us to show hospitality, we are also aware of the possible COVID implications. While everyone will be required to wear masks, please be aware of the opportunity to view the service on line if you so choose. We also invite all who feel comfortable to join the students for refreshments following the service (whether you view on line or in person) to meet and greet and to offer a warm welcome to Bethel and BCMC

Welcome to Riley King who will begin this fall as our Chancel Choir Director! Singers from high school age on up are invited to join the choir when rehearsals begin this fall.

Faith Formation Staff Positions and Survey

Two quarter time staff positions are open to help ease the load of Faith Formation in the wake of Pastor Renee’s departure. The Youth Coordinator is primarily responsible for the high school youth group. The Faith Formation Coordinator is responsible for coordinating children and youth Sunday School and Wednesday evening programming for children up to high school age. These positions will go through the end of the school year. These positions could be combined into one half time position for the right candidate. If you or someone you know might be interested, please contact Kathy Stucky at kathystucky57@yahoo.com. The full job descriptions are attached at the bottom of this email.

For Faith Formation Coordinator Description click here

For Youth Coordinator Description click here

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.

https://forms.gle/v5q4uWeY4XE8w6vX7

The current BCMC Library theme is “Committee Book Recommendations”. Our current members, picked a few of our favorites from our wonderful collection and they are now shelved in back of the library desk. Come in, check one (or two or three) out and see if you agree with us. Carol Flickinger, Rose Haury, Barb Koontz, Sondra Koontz, Kathryn Simmons, Margaret Goering.

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

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.

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 am. See https://www.bethelks.edu/academics/convocation-lectures/life-enrichment for more information.

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!

Fall Book Study on Healing Haunted Histories Sept. 8-Dec. 1, 2022

Elaine Enns, co-author of Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler Discipleship of Decolonization, will be leading an online, intensive book study this fall for the Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery Coalition. Two-hour sessions will be every other Thursday, 6-8 pm Central Time, on Sept 8 and 22, Oct 6 and 20, Nov 3 and 17, and Dec 1. This book encourages personal and collective work toward decolonization. It asks those of us who are settlers, immigrants and displaced peoples to do our own pre-work of integrating our ancestral stories, so we can see more clearly and show up in solidarity with Indigenous peoples. There is a suggested donation of $150-$250 for the online book study. Scholarships are available. Register here by August 1.

Note to Western District Conference members: You are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity and register for the Healing Haunted Histories book study! If you do so, please inform the WDC office at wdc@mennowdc.org or 316-283-6300. This will allow us to facilitate networking between WDC participants, and plan for further engagement with Elaine Enns within the WDC context, as follow-up to the book study. If you seek some financial support to help meet expenses for the book study, please inform WDC. Requests for assistance will be considered by the WDC Resource Commission at their next meeting in September.

Sat., Aug. 6 – Kauffman Museum first-Saturday bird walk, 7 a.m. start time in the museum parking lot at the corner of Main and 27th streets in North Newton. 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).

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

Many thanks to the many volunteers of the 2022 summer–program directors, input leaders, counselors, kitchen staff, maintenance volunteers, and all the other delightful people who spent time at Camp Mennoscah! It has been a brilliant time with approx. 370 campers immersed in worship, friends, and caring relationships over 8 amazing camp weeks. Thank you for being part of these great experiences!

Camp Sing on Saturday, August 6, at 2:30pm at Hope Mennonite Church in Wichita! Camp Mennoscah will be celebrating a wonderful summer through song! Everyone is invited to come and sing camp songs (both “traditional” ones from across the years and newer Praise & Worship ones). The final details are yet to be determined, but there will be soda pop–generic or otherwise! Put it on your calendar and come be part of the fun!

Other events and happenings:

Work & Play Day on August 20! Camp Mennoscah has projects to complete and plenty to do after a busy, fun summer. You are invited to be part of this camping ministry through fellowship and service! Projects for all ages and weather are available. Let us know you’re coming so we can be prepared for you! Bring your lunch and a water bottle. The day will start at 8:30 at the maintenance shed. End your day with a leisurely kayak ride or stroll to the sandbar. Contact Olivia at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org to sign up. Want to volunteer either before or after August 20? Give us a call!
Pardon the Mess! Camp Mennoscah is cleaning out and organizing maintenance sheds and other buildings. Items in the front “yard” will slowly find new homes. Thank you for your understanding!
Groups are invited to set their own precautions based on the comfort level of their group. Please note the RV electrical hookups are not available due to safety concerns.
Camp staff work hours vary depending on scheduled events for the week. The office assistant also works part-time from home. (Whenever a group is at camp, a staff person will be on duty.) Thank you for understanding! We will be in touch as soon as possible.

Everence^® February webinar: Social Security and retirement income
Everence^® will hold an informative Social Security and retirement income webinar on Tuesday, Feb. 15, starting at 6:30 p.m. Specifics will include Social Security strategies, including when to begin taking benefits, risks that can impact your retirement savings plus strategies to help your income last throughout retirement. There will also be plenty of time for questions.
Information will be presented by staff from the Everence offices in Central Kansas.
To register contact Everence at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com.

Advisory services offered through Concourse Financial Group Advisors, a division of Concourse Financial Group Securities, a Registered Investment Advisor. Securities offered through Concourse Financial Group Securities, a registered broker-dealer and member of FINRA and SIPC. Investments and other products are not NCUA or otherwise federally insured, may involve loss of principal, and have no credit union guarantee.

Products and services offered through Everence Trust Company and other Everence entities are independent of and are not guaranteed or endorsed by Concourse Financial Group Securities, or its affiliates.

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

For Mennonite Mission Network News from Around the World press here

For Anabaptist Disabilities Network press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
This week, please pray for Allegheny Mennonite Conference congregations as they gather for their annual Celebration of Congregations and Conference on August 5-7.

Learn, Pray, Join: Welcoming EveryBODY
We do ourselves a disservice when we don’t celebrate everyone’s gifts. Jeanne Davies of Anabaptist Disabilities Network reflects on how those on the margins, those with disabilities, provide beautiful insights and gifts that we can all benefit from. Read more in her Menno Snapshots blog, “For the common good.” mennoniteusa.org/for-common-good

Menno Snapshots
When Cindy Angela moved from Java, Indonesia, to Pennsylvania, she was pleasantly surprised that she was able to experience pieces of her Indonesian culture in her new city. When she was baptized into Christ, she was even more excited that, through her diverse church, she was able to incorporate her Indonesian identity into her Christian walk. Read her Menno Snapshots blog, “Pieces from back home,” to learn more. mennoniteusa.org/pieces-from-back-home

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Freddy Barrón and Margrit Kipfer Barrón, as they mentor leaders and support church plants in the Bolivia Mennonite Church. Pray for Freddy as he pastors a congregation and Margrit as she coordinates Christian education for the denomination.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Join the Church Planting Commission in praying for WDC congregations to discover new opportunities for bringing healing and hope in their ministry contexts, according to the vision Jesus proclaimed of God’s kingdom. Likewise, that God would strengthen or create new connections between older congregations and newer congregations and church plants, so that we may learn from one another. – Pastor Caleb Yoder

View the worship service for July 24, 2022

Press here for the July 24 worship service

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH

July 24, 2022

Prelude—Sandwell (Dale Wood) and The Gift to Be Simple (Dale Wood)—Karen Schlabaugh

Christ Candle Lighting—Dale Schrag

Welcome and Prayer—Dale Schrag

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

Children’s Conversation—Barb Koontz

Scripture Reading—Luke 11:1-13—Darlene Dick

Sermon—Faithful persistence—Todd Schlosser

*Hymn—My life flows on—VT #605

Prayers of God’s People—Dale Schrag

*Hymn—All Praise to Thee—VT 505

Benediction—Todd Schlosser

Postlude—They’ll Know We Are Christians (Wilbur Held)—Karen Schlabaugh

* You are invited to stand

VT = Voices Together

Audio visual—Ken Lamp

Pastors— Nathan Koontz, Todd Schlosser

YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/huGKrwojS3s

View the Worship Service for July 17, 2022

Press here for July 17 worship service

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH

July 17, 2022

Prelude—Come, thou fount (arr. R. Lau)—Will Wiebe-Friesen

Christ Candle Lighting—Jim Robb

Welcome and Prayer

*Hymn—God be the love—VT 43

Children’s Conversation—Deb Gering

Worship Music—Suzy Burch and Lucy Burch

Scripture Reading—Luke 10:38-42—Sondra Koontz

Sermon—Eric Massanari

*Hymn—O Thou, In Whose Presence—VT 600

Kin-dom Report—Mary Ellen Hodge

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—La paz de la tierra (The peace of the earth be with you)—VT 838 (sung in Spanish and then in English)

Benediction—Eric Massanari

Postlude—Toccata (L. Boëllmann)

* You are invited to stand

VT = Voices Together

Audio visual—Ben Lichti

Pastors—Nathan Koontz, Todd Schlosser

Youtube link for this Sunday

Announcements for July 24-31, 2022

The Memorial Service for Jim Gaeddert is Saturday, July 23, 3 pm, at BCMC —you are invited to attend in person or by live-stream. You can go to the BCMC website for the live stream or click on this link: https://youtu.be/Vgce5HDAVuw

This Week at BCMC: July 24—31, 2022
Sunday, July 24—Live stream (YouTube) link for this Sunday is:
https://youtu.be/huGKrwojS3s
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 25
10 am         Library Committee meeting in the library
Sunday, July 31
9:30 am      Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz
10:15 am    Fellowship Time with coffee and water served in the
Gathering Place
10:30 am    Faith Formation—Visitors welcome!

BCMC July 17 Offering: General Fund $9,212; Plant Fund $120; Living Stones $1,088.33; Kitchen Fund (Coffee) $14.

BCMC Budget Update: For June 2022, income was $35,070 and expenses were $39,637. For the year-to-date, income is $211,450 and expenses are $254,017. – The Finance Committee

Adam, Jill, Al, Nadine, Jake, and Gabby would like to invite the BCMC congregation to the Robb house (193 20th Ave., Moundridge – two miles west of the blinking light, then turn south) on Sunday, July 24 at 6 PM for a wiener roast and social time! We’ll provide the hotdogs and fixins, along with chips and beverages, and hope that you can join us in fellowship. If you come, and would like to bring a side or dessert, please feel free to – but nothing is required! We will also have a few chairs, but would ask that if you have your own, that you bring those. And, if you’ll be able to join us, please let us know (email Adam and Jill at adamandjillrobb@gmail.com or catch us in church) by Thursday, July 21 so that we can plan accordingly to make sure there are enough supplies! We look forward to hopefully seeing you for some fellowship in the Moundridge countryside! The weather will be hot on Sunday, so both indoor and outdoor seating spaces will be available for guests!

The letter from the BCMC Church Board expressing affirmation and encouragement to denominational leadership at Mennonite Church USA regarding the recent approval of the Resolution for Repentance and Transformation at the Special Delegate Assembly at the end of May will be underneath the balcony at the back of the church on Sunday, July 24. Denomination leadership is hearing from various perspectives in the wake of this resolution. We want them to know that we are filled with hope and gratitude for our denomination moving forward toward healing and repair, and toward equity and justice, despite the hard work ahead.
If you are interested in signing this letter come to the back of the sanctuary on Sunday. Thanks from the Inclusion Task Group,
Megan Kohlman, Karen Ediger, Karen Penner, John Kliewer, & Nathan Koontz

New Task Group:
The Church Board has approved the formation of a task group to lead the church in finding ways for our congregation to move beyond land acknowledgement to tangible actions seeking justice for the harms which Indigenous peoples have suffered and continue to suffer today. We will discuss joining the Repair Network of Mennonite congregations for education, solidarity and reparative action alongside Indigenous peoples. The first action of the BCMC task group will be to help support MCC’s “Loss of Turtle Island” experience for members of our congregation. If you would like to join the task group, contact Nathan Koontz or Ada Schmidt-Tieszen. Raylene Hinz-Penner will convene the task group.

Bethel College Connections:
We continue our outreach to Bethel College, our sister institution. The Church Board has chosen to again invite new students to attend our service on August 14 as part of their orientation. We will welcome 100 or more students from many parts of the country and world. Masks will be required for all on that day. Look for announcements about a possible coffee reception for students after the service. Fall Fest Sunday will again be held in our church building on October 9

Welcome to Riley King who will begin this fall as our Chancel Choir Director! Singers from high school age on up are invited to join the choir when rehearsals begin this fall.

Faith Formation Staff Positions and Survey

https://forms.gle/v5q4uWeY4XE8w6vX7

Assistant Treasurer Transitions:
Over the last months there have been several transitions in the volunteer role of assistant treasurer, an important position appointed by the Board. It is with deep gratitude that we recognize and thank Nancy Hilty and Lois Goertzen for their competence, dedication, and long service in this role. The Church Board was pleased to approve Mary Ann Boschman and Bonnie Epp as our new assistant treasurers and recognize and thank Richard Friesen for his ongoing work as a volunteer assistant treasurer who manages software that tracks congregational giving, produces quarterly contribution reports, helps analyze giving patterns, and trains new assistant treasurers. Thanks to all these invaluable volunteers!

Reopening Task Group—Release and Thanks! The church board voted to release the Reopening Task Group from their duties. We owe a huge thank you to the group for steering our congregation through the last several years with consistency and wisdom! We recognize that Covid is not gone, but at this time Covid management will become decentralized with commissions and committees managing Covid precautions and decisions for events and activities in their charge. Individuals are expected to take whatever precautions each deems appropriate. The church will continue to livestream services for those who choose to view services from home. Masks will be available for in-person worship and events.

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. 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

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!

Colorado peaches are back! Place your order for fresh Colorado peaches, $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.

WDC Final Thursday Book Discussion July 28: When a near-fatal illness led his doctors to prescribe narcotics, Timothy McMahan King ended up as millions of others have: addicted. Join us in reading and discussing King’s book Addiction Nation which “nudges us toward healing from the ravages of addiction and draws us toward a spirituality studied enough to sate our deepest longings.” Discussion: July 28, @ 7:00pm via Zoom. Register: email the library at crlib@mennowdc.org

Fall Book Study on Healing Haunted Histories Sept. 8-Dec. 1, 2022

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

Other events and happenings:

Work & Play Day on August 20! Camp Mennoscah has projects to complete and plenty to do after a busy, fun summer. You are invited to be part of this camping ministry through fellowship and service! Projects for all ages and weather are available. Let us know you’re coming so we can be prepared for you! Bring your lunch and a water bottle. The day will start at 8:30 at the maintenance shed. End your day with a leisurely kayak ride or stroll to the sandbar. Contact Olivia at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org to sign up. Want to volunteer either before or after August 20? Give us a call!
Pardon the Mess! Camp Mennoscah is cleaning out and organizing maintenance sheds and other buildings. Items in the front “yard” will slowly find new homes. Thank you for your understanding!
Groups are invited to set their own precautions based on the comfort level of their group. Please note the RV electrical hookups are not available due to safety concerns.
Camp staff work hours vary depending on scheduled events for the week. The office assistant also works part-time from home. (Whenever a group is at camp, a staff person will be on duty.) Thank you for understanding! We will be in touch as soon as possible.

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond click here

For Mennonite Mission Network webinar click here
This webinar series is with Minister Al Motley Jr., aka rapper Iz-Real, July 27-29 – a 3 day event from 12 to 1 pm ET. He will share about his spiritual journey, offer inspiration, and talk about how to get involved, explore leadership development, and engage in Mission Network service opportunities.

For Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level click
here

Mennonite Mission Network Announcements
This week, please pray for Western District Conference congregations as they gather for their annual delegate assembly on July 29-31.

Learn, Pray, Join: Welcoming EveryBODY
What if we celebrated our wounded bodies — scars, wrinkles, prosthetics and all? Erica Lea-Simka questions if we would look at Jesus, and ourselves, differently if we celebrated his wounds, abilities and disabilities. Her blog is part of Mennonite Church USA’s “Learn, Pray, Join: Welcoming EveryBODY” initiative. Read it here: mennoniteusa.org/bending-stretching

Menno Snapshots
The effects of the Doctrine of Discovery (DoD) are far-reaching. Because of the DoD, Indigenous people’s lands have been stolen, polluted and destroyed for centuries. In her blog, “The land is not empty,” author Sarah Augustine calls on all of us in Mennonite Church USA to join her in fighting against the DoD. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/not-empty

Delegate Assembly
John L. Rush has a passion for justice and has spent most of his life working in prison ministry. Read why the “For Justice in the Criminal Legal System” resolution, which has been adopted for denominational study, is so important to him in his blog, “One response to the MC USA ‘For Justice’ Resolution.” mennoniteusa.org/response-justice-resolution

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Alisha and Josh Garber, serving with Mennonite Mission Network, are currently based in Phoenix, Arizona, where they are engaged in North American ministry. Pray for a time of spiritual and physical renewal, as the Garbers visit family, friends and supporting congregations. Pray for them, also, as they discern what God is calling them to next.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for the WDC Annual Assembly next weekend at Camp Copass near Denton, TX, that in this gathering God will encourage and strengthen WDC congregations through the assembly theme, “United in Purpose, Together in Love.”