April 24, 2022 Congregational Meeting – 10:45 am
The meeting will be a hybrid meeting with an option to join via the following Zoom link.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89345715818?pwd=Tk1RbWdWa200T2locTVFaVFBVENWQT09
Meeting ID: 893 4571 5818
Passcode: 079989  
For our April congregational meeting, the Church Board is choosing to experiment with a new time and format.  We’ve heard that our typical 1:00 pm time interrupts nap time for young families and sometimes overlaps with sports or other activities for families with older children.  In our efforts to engage and accommodate younger families, we are following their suggestion of using our Sunday School hour; we will begin our meeting on April 24 at 10:45 am.  We have also listened to those who feel our meetings include too much reporting and not enough discussion of important issues our congregation faces.  Therefore, we are planning to have the meeting around round tables in Fellowship Hall.  We are planning for light snacks and beverages as well.

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The Mentor and Mentee event is this coming Sunday, April 24th from 4-6pm at the North Newton pickleball court. Faith Formation Commission will lead some Bible minute to win it games, there will be yard games and snacks available, and hopefully some fun pickleball games for all to enjoy. Reach out to your mentor or mentee and come and spend some quality time together! 

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This week at BCMC
Sunday, April 24—Holy Hilarity Sunday
9:30 am  Worship Service (in person and live streamed)
10:30 am Faith Formation 
10:45 am  Congregational Meeting in Fellowship Hall.  There are light snacks and beverages. 
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
Children and youth Sunday School classes! 10:30-11:30 am
Preschoolers – Room B4        Middlers (3rd-8th graders) – Room 26
High School – Room 24   Koinonia (college students welcome!) – The Agape House   The Agape Class will meet in Room B8
Tuesday,  April 26, 2022
9-11 am     Community Playschool
Wednesday, April 27, 2022
7-8 pm      Youth Group in the Gathering Place
7 pm          Wednesday Night Club for 3rd to 8th Graders
7:30 pm     Chancel Choir in the Sanctuary
Thursday, April 28, 2022
9-11 am     Community Playschool
6:15 pm     Chancel Bells in Room B7
Sunday, May 1, 2022
9:30 am  Worship Service (in person and live streamed)
10:30 am Faith Formation 

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Kansas Mennonite Men’s Chorus Concerts – April 24 and May 1
KMMC Concert Sunday, April 24, at 7:00 pm in Memorial Hall at Bethel College.

KMMC Concert Sunday, May 1, at 7:00 pm in Presser Hall at Bethany College, Lindsborg KS.

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The McPherson Community Brass Choir under the Direction of Jerry Toews will give a Sunday afternoon Concert in The Church of the Brethren, 201 N. Carrie, McPherson, KS on Apr. 24 at 4pm.  FREE and FUN.  Everyone is invited.

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New Hope Shelter Appeal
Once again, I send out an appeal to anyone who would be willing to help in some way at New Hope Shelter.  We are running on a skeleton crew of volunteers, and help in the way of new recruits is needed.  The following are needed:
1.  Volunteers to spend time with residents at New Hope from 5 to 11 PM.  BCMC is responsible for having volunteers for a week every 9 weeks.  An orientation is given for new volunteers. 
2.  Evening Coordinators from 5 to 8 PM on Saturday and Sunday evenings every 9 weeks.  An orientation is given for this.
3. Meals each evening for a week every 9 weeks.

Please understand that we ask for help only every 9 weeks, and being on the volunteer list doesn’t commit you to each of those weeks.  I believe that BCMC is committed to helping with the work of New Hope, but we need volunteers to do so.  If you are able to help, or if you have questions, please contact Valetta Seymour:  seymour2314@gmail.com, 620-217-7536.

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Church Retreat at Camp Mennoscah
Come one, come all – to the 2022 BCMC Camp Mennoscah Church Retreat! This year’s retreat is on May 7-8 (Mother’s Day Weekend), and we hope that you’ll be able to join us for some fun, fellowship, fishing, and festivities in the glory of God’s fantastic creation. Meals and lodging are both available, and pre-registration is strongly encouraged. There won’t be worship in the BCMC building on May 8, so even if spending the night isn’t for you, please consider making the trip out on Sunday morning to worship – where we will hopefully be celebrating the act of baptism again.

If you have any questions or would like to help out in anyway, please reach out to Adam Robb (adamandjillrobb@gmail.com) and if you’re planning to attend, please use the link here https://forms.gle/FAhg5S Zorn’s rH6 to sign up! Thanks, and we hope to see you there!

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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!
2022 WDC Annual Assembly Announcement – “United in Purpose, Together in Love” is our WDC Annual Assembly theme for our July 29-31, 2022 gathering at Camp Copass, Denton, TX. There will be time to pray, serve, discern the ministry of the church, and play together. Adults, children and youth welcome. There will be separate, age-appropriate programming for kids and youth. Childcare provided. More information and registration coming soon.

Western District Women in Mission invites all women to a virtual “Meet-up” on Tuesday, April 26^th, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.  Please join us as we hear from Barbara Gingrich, Cheryl Kaufman, and Cindy Thompson from Lorraine Avenue Mennonite Church in Wichita about their Knit4Peace project. Then, Sarah Augustine will discuss her personal life journey and book she authored called The Land is Not Empty: Following Jesus in Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery (Herald Press, 2021). Sarah is a Pueblo (Tewa) descendant and founder and cochair of the Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery Coalition and Executive Director of a dispute resolution center in central Washington State. She is a columnist for Anabaptist World and co-hosts the Doctrine of Discovery podcast with Sheri Hostetler. Following the event, you will be invited to participate in an online survey to provide your ideas about future Western District Women in Mission activities. We hope you will be willing to share your input on how WDWM plays an important role for women today. To register for this event, please email westerndistrictwomen@gmail.com by Monday, April 25 and you will be sent the Zoom link.

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BETHEL COLLEGE ANNOUNCEMENTS

• Now in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College, the annual Student Art Exhibit, featuring the work of 52 Bethel students, in a variety of media, through May 6. Gallery hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Mon.-Fri.
• Sun., April 24 – KIPCOR Film Series presents The Revolution Generation (before its theatrical release!), 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College; audience talkback led by Jacob Miller-Klugesherz to follow.
• Sun., April 24 – Senior recital by Bethel College student Kayla Newman, brass, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel.
• Mon., April 25 – Bethel College Wind Ensemble concert under the direction of Joel Boettger, 7 p.m., featuring mostly 21st-century music, Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center
• Thurs., April 28 – Kauffman Museum invites public input for strategic planning, 6:30 p.m., Newton Rec Center, 415 N. Poplar St., Newton; contact Andi Schmidt Andres for more information, asa@bethelks.edu or 316-283-1612. No pre-registration required for the public forum.
• Sun., May 1 – Masterworks concert at Bethel College, 3 p.m., featuring the Bethel College Oratorio Chorus, orchestra and soloists performing Requiem by Mozart, and Gloria and For the Beauty of the Earth by John Rutter, directed by Dr. William Eash; Memorial Hall 
• Tues., May 3 – Bethel College Steel Drum Band concert, directed by Brad Shores, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center 
• Weds., May 4 – Jazz on the Green at Bethel College, 8 p.m. (Memorial Hall in case of rain) 
• Sat., May 14 – Spring choral concert, including pre-Europe tour program by the Bethel College Concert Choir, 4 p.m., Memorial Hall. Please note that this is a change in date and time from some previously printed sources.

Kauffman Museum at Bethel College is seeking, at three-quarter to full time, an organized, detail-oriented, creative individual to manage the museum’s bookkeeping and the museum store, plus other responsibilities as they align with the applicant’s qualifications related to the other five team members’ skills. For the job description and to apply, see  
https://www.bethelks.edu/about/who-we-are/career-opportunities/current-position-openings/kauffman-museum-assistant
For more information, contact Andi Andres at asa@bethelks.edu or 316-283-1612. 

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CAMP MENNOSCAH ANNOUNCEMENTS

You have a little time left to order a Verenike Casserole meal for the Camp Mennoscah fundraiser.  Click here to reserve one or more! This fundraiser is for Camp Mennoscah’s summer youth camps and retreats. Your donations will help campers Build on the Rock and Play in the Sand! The meal consists of verenike casserole, seasoned green beans, zweiback, and fruit crisp. Each meal is intended for one person.
Pick up meals at Moundridge High School between 5:30-6:30pm on April 30.  Watch Camp Mennoscah’s Facebook page and check your email for any changes.  Requested donation per meal is $15. Additional donations are welcome! Reservations close at 6pm on April 24.  Reserve yours now!

Other events and happenings: 

• April 23 is a Work and Play Day at Camp Mennoscah!  We’re starting at 8:30am at the maintenance shed. Both indoor and outdoor work is available.  Bring your water bottle and lunch.  We’d be thrilled to have you sign up! Contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org to register.
   
• The summer staffers for 2022 are (alphabetical by first name) Ben Rudeen (music), Beth Balzer (crafts), Charlie Major (lifeguard plus…), Ethan Entz (unassigned), Harley McCormick (office), Jonah Schloneger (unassigned), Maddie Bollinger (lifeguard), and Schlyer Entz (lifeguard).
   
• Summer Youth Camp scholarships are available.  Contact us at 620-297-3290 or fill out the request form.  Camp is for everyone!  
   
• Nurses needed for Summer Youth Camps!  Your time and skill give campers a week of growing in Christian fellowship and experiencing God’s great creation.  Nurses need RN certification or equivalent.  Nurses are needed for June 12-18, June 23-25, July 3-9, and July 24-29.  Contact us at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org
   
• Masks would be optional, if camp happened today.  Campers would stay in cabins.  Campers/staff who are not fully vaccinated would need to provide a negative COVID test.  Call 620-297-3290 for more information.  Scholarships available.
   
• 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.

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For Mennonite Disaster Service on the level announcement click here
For Mennonite World Conference announcement click here
For Mennonite Mission Network News from around the world click here
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond click here

Free webinar!

Political Idolatry: Countering Christian NationalismWednesday, May 4 • 2–3 p.m. EDTLearn practical tools for tough conversations.Join Drew Strait, PhD, Assistant Professor of New Testament and Christian Origins at AMBS, as he provides an overview of the destructive force of White Christian nationalism.► Explore the political metaphor of idolatry in conversation with texts from the Old and New Testaments.► Learn how Christian nationalism distorts our knowledge of God and neighbor.► Use these practical tools to help with today’s tough conversations to bear witness to the gospel of peace.Register for free today!All registrants will receive access to a recording of the webinar.

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MENNONITE CHURCH USA ANNOUNCEMENTS
In honor of Women’s History Month in March, the MC USA Archives compiled a Mennonite Women’s History timeline. Explore the rich history with this new resource available now: mennoniteusa.org/mennonite-womens-history-timeline/

A Call to Prayer and Fasting Just as Paul prayed for the churches of his time, let us also pray for ours. Join Mennonite Church USA on May 2 at 7 p.m. ET/4 P.M. PT on Zoom for a webinar on ways that we can support the Special Session of the Delegate Assembly and our participating church leaders through individual and communal prayer and fasting. Register here: mennoniteusa.org/register-prayer-fasting

Menno Snapshots
Susan Janzen, Central Plains conference minister for Ministerial Leadership, was inspired by the hymn, “There’s a Wild Hope in the Wind” (No. 828 in the Voices Together hymnal, © 2014 Lora Braun) at the recent Pastors & Leaders | Deep Faith 2022 conference. Read about her experience in her blog: mennoniteusa.org/wild-hope-wilderness

Menno Snapshots
“Mention ‘The Mennonite Game’ in Anabaptist circles and you’ll be met with a variety of responses — a knowing chuckle, the rolling of eyes, a blank stare,” writes Laura Pauls-Thomas (she/her). She shares her perspective on her learning journey with intercultural competency and Diversity: God’s Design in her blog here: mennoniteusa.org/winners-losers-mennonite-game

Menno Snapshots
Bonnie Miller, who is on the board directors for Anabaptist Disabilities Network, calls us to think about the stigmas and biases we possess when it comes to relating to individuals with a disability in her blog “Creating Spaces of Belonging.” Read it here: mennoniteusa.org/create-spaces-belonging

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Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request:  Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Colleen and Pablo Fast, who have been asked by leadership of the Paz Church in Brazil to help shepherd a congregation in Apuí for about eight months. Pray for the Fasts as they transition from their home along the Purus River to a new culture that focuses on cattle-raising and lumber.

Western District Conference Prayer Request:  Please join with me in praying to the Lord of the harvest, asking for workers to be raised up in the churches to serve within and to be sent out. Pray for each member of Christ to hear the Spirit’s call to serve in the equipping of God’s people and to thoughtfully consider how we can encourage the spiritual gifts that we see in each other and in our young people, all to the glory of God. Amen. – WDC Church Planting Prayer Request from Pastor Karen Mascho

April 24, 2022 Congregational Meeting – 10:45 am
For our April congregational meeting, the Church Board is choosing to experiment with a new time and format.  We’ve heard that our typical 1:00 pm time interrupts nap time for young families and sometimes overlaps with sports or other activities for families with older children.  In our efforts to engage and accommodate younger families, we are following their suggestion of using our Sunday School hour; we will begin our meeting on April 24 at 10:45 am.  We have also listened to those who feel our meetings include too much reporting and not enough discussion of important issues our congregation faces.  Therefore, we are planning to have the meeting around round tables in Fellowship Hall.  We are planning for light snacks and beverages as well.  
We know this plan brings difficulties, particularly for Sunday School classes that have specific plans and lessons.  We are sorry about these difficulties, and we hope we can all embrace this experimental change as our congregation works at being the church together. 

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This week at BCMC
Sunday, April 17, 2022—Easter Sunday
9:30 am    Worship Service (in person and live streamed)
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
Children and youth Sunday School classes! 10:30-11:30 am
Preschoolers – Room B4        Middlers (3rd-8th graders) – Room 26
High School – Room 24   Koinonia (college students welcome!) – The Agape House   The Agape Class will meet in Room B8
Adult Classes (If meeting):  Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5);
Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Book Study (Rm 20); Open Circle (Room 21); Seekers (Rm 28); Sojourners (Chapel)
Monday,  April 18, 2022 (Holiday for the staff of BCMC)
Church office will be closed; building will be locked
Tuesday,  April 19, 2022
9-11 am     Community Playschool
7 pm          Women’s Fellowship Meeting in Fellowship Hall
Wednesday, April 20, 2022
7-8 pm      Youth Group in the Gathering Place
7 pm          Wednesday Night Club for 3rd to 8th Graders
7:30 pm     Chancel Choir in the Sanctuary
Thursday, April 21, 2022
6:15 pm     Chancel Bells in Room B7
7 pm           Deacon Commission Meeting
5:30—7 pm  Community Playschool Family Night in Fellowship Hall
Sunday, April 24—Holy Hilarity Sunday
9:30 am  Worship Service (in person and live streamed)
10:30 am Faith Formation  
10:45 am  Congregational Meeting in Fellowship Hall

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BCMC Offering for April 10, 2022  General Fund $15,397.94; MCC $50;Caring Fund $320; Living Stones $280; Flower Fund $55; Women’s Fellowship $50

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There will be a memorial service for Larry Friesen, Saturday, April 16 at 3 pm in the BCMC Sanctuary.   You are welcome to attend in person or view the service live-streamed through the BCMC website.

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Church Retreat
Come one, come all – to the 2022 BCMC Camp Mennoscah Church Retreat! This year’s retreat is on May 7-8 (Mother’s Day Weekend), and we hope that you’ll be able to join us for some fun, fellowship, fishing, and festivities in the glory of God’s fantastic creation. Meals and lodging are both available, and pre-registration is strongly encouraged. There won’t be worship in the BCMC building on May 8, so even if spending the night isn’t for you, please consider making the trip out on Sunday morning to worship – where we will hopefully be celebrating the act of baptism again.

If you have any questions or would like to help out in anyway, please reach out to Adam Robb (adamandjillrobb@gmail.com) and if you’re planning to attend, please use the link here https://forms.gle/FAhg5S Zorn’s rH6 to sign up! Thanks, and we hope to see you there!

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Women’s Fellowship Announcement

April 19, 2022 @ 7:00 pm in Fellowship Hall

Women of BCMC: It is time to gather! This is an invitation to ALL Women of BCMC. ALL who attend will receive a free birthday calendar. Contact a member of the Leadership Team (Lois Brubacher, Lois Preheim, Brenda Turner, Janet Voth) if you cannot attend, but would like a free birthday calendar. Birthday tables will have envelopes. Thank you in advance for your generosity in supporting WF ministries.

P.S.

Visit the COVID PROJECT table in the gathering space. Birthday Calendars are available to everyone for $10.00 from the Women’s Fellowship Leadership Team: Lois Brubacher, Lois Preheim, Brenda Turner, Janet Voth. Checks may be made to BCMC WF.
 

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BCMC Library News
The current Library Theme is a timely topic, Stories from Ukraine. We have several books that are new to our Ukraine collection and should be added this week. Come check out what our library has to offer!

The Library Committee would like to extend our puzzle sale as a mini fundraiser to support the buying of more books! If you have a puzzle that is in excellent/very good condition, please consider donating it to the library and we will sell it for $5! Let’s rotate our jigsaw puzzles, have fun, and support the library!

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Dr. John and Clara Schmidt – former members of Alexanderwohl and First Mennonite – were Mennonite medical pioneers in Paraguay, S.A (1941-2001). Their 60-year saga of service and adventure is now documented in a new book, CALLED. The authors, Marlena Fiol and Ed O’Connor, will share a behind-the-scenes look at what motivated them to write the book, where the seven years of research took them, and some of the reactions they’ve received to the book from a wide range of readers — including family members and leaders of the Mennonite Central Committee. Join this live virtual event via Zoom or watch on Facebook Live.  Event is April 19 at 7 pm.
https://www.facebook.com/events/726332378727712/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22surface%22%3A%22page%22%7D]%7D

Zoom Link:   https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_3RlXxVnSQ6e1pS17yjyvRg

https://www.newtonplks.org/news-and-events/library-happenings/

Note from Library Committee:  There is a copy of Called in the BCMC Library
 

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The McPherson Community Brass Choir under the Direction of Jerry Toews will give a Sunday afternoon Concert in The Church of the Brethren, 201 N. Carrie, McPherson, KS on Apr. 24 at 4pm.  FREE and FUN.  Everyone is invited.

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BETHEL COLLEGE ANNOUNCEMENTS

Tues., April 19 – Bethel College Chamber Orchestra concert under the direction of Kris Hilding, 7:30 p.m., featuring works by Bartok, Bizet, Du Prez, Borge, Telemann and more; Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center (NOTE CHANGE OF LOCATION).

Thurs., April 21 – Artist reception for the annual Student Art Exhibit, 6-8 p.m., Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. The exhibit features the work of 56 Bethel students, in a variety of media, and runs through May 6. Regular gallery hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Mon.-Fri.

Fri., April 22 – Junior recital by Bethel College student Bryce Wilson on soprano and alto saxophone, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel

Sat., April 23 – Earth Day program at Kauffman Museum featuring falconer Nate Mathews, Wichita, with a bald eagle, 10:30 a.m., inside the museum (corner of North Main and 27th streets in North Newton)

Sun., April 24 – KIPCOR Film Series presents The Revolution Generation (before its theatrical release!), 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College; audience talkback led by Jacob Miller-Klugesherz to follow.

Sun., April 24 – Senior recital by Bethel College student Kayla Newman, brass, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel

Mon., April 25 – Bethel College Wind Ensemble concert under the direction of Joel Boettger, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center

Sun., May 1 – Masterworks concert at Bethel College, 3 p.m., featuring the Bethel College Oratorio Chorus, orchestra and soloists performing Requiem by Mozart, and Gloria and For the Beauty of the Earth by John Rutter, directed by Dr. William Eash; Memorial Hall

Kauffman Museum at Bethel College is seeking, at three-quarter to full time, an organized, detail-oriented, creative individual to manage the museum’s bookkeeping and the museum store, plus other responsibilities as they align with the applicant’s qualifications related to the other five team members’ skills. For the job description and to apply, see  
https://www.bethelks.edu/about/who-we-are/career-opportunities/current-position-openings/kauffman-museum-assistant 
For more information, contact Andi Andres at asa@bethelks.edu or 316-283-1612. 

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

Save the date for Assembly! – July 29-31 WDC delegates, friends, and their families will gather at Camp Copass, Denton, TX. There will be lots of time for recreation for all ages, as well as sharing around tables about faith issues in our conference, congregations, and in our lives. Join us! More details coming soon.

The Western District Conference office and the 2022 WDC Annual Assembly planning team is wanting to get some information out and feedback from you about this year’s 2022 WDC Annual Assembly coming up on July 29-31 at Camp Copass in Denton, TX. If you could please use the following link to fill out a quick survey by April 21, we would very much appreciate it!

English version: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSepWPNQv-lUGKnO33YDwVgLxiQrN7rjFyGN9XKbaTvbVGyLGg/viewform?usp=sf_link

Book Sale – The Western District Conference Resource Library in North Newton, KS will be hosting a Book Sale on Saturday, April 30 from 8am -12pm outside in front of the WDC building. There will be a large variety of donated books and books removed from circulation. Donations will be accepted for your selections. Hope to see you there!

How Can We Help?  On April 21, 7 pm the WDC Immigration Task Force invites you to learn the latest on how to support new migrants and refugees near you and learn about how to join the mission of two organizations who have been working at refugee resettlement and immigration justice for many years. We will be glad to network briefly with each other about our congregation’s work in this area. Guest speakers will be Charity Stowell (MCC Newcomer Connections Coordinator) and Jen Rafter (International Rescue Committee Development Coordinator). To receive the Zoom link, please register by emailing wdc@mennowdc.org by April 20.

WDC Final Thursday Book Discussion
“Race is one of the hardest topics to discuss in America. Many White Christians avoid talking about it altogether. But a commitment to peacemaking requires White people to step out of their comfort and privilege and into the work of anti-racism. Dear White Peacemakers is an invitation to White Christians to come to the table and join this hard work and holy calling.”  —from the back cover.

Join us to discuss dear white peacemakers by Osheta Moore via Zoom on Thursday, April 28 from 7:00-8:00pm. Contact the WDC Resource Library at crlib@mennowdc.org to register for the discussion or borrow a copy of the book.

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NEWTON ET CETERA SHOP ANNOUNCEMENTS
Newton Et Cetera Shop invites organizations to apply for this year’s Local Giving Grants. Local Giving grants are made available by the Newton Et Cetera Shop board of directors. Application forms may be downloaded at newtonetceterashop.com/local-giving-fund/ and must be submitted by e-mail to localgiving@newtonetceterashop.com by April 25, 2022. Micro-grants will be awarded to selected groups in June 2022, in amounts up to $500.

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 call us at 316.283.9461 or attend one of our upcoming volunteer orientations to tell us what interests you: Saturday 4/23/22 11A-noon or Thursday 5/19/22 6-7 PM. We hope to hear from you soon!

Celebrate Earth Day at the Newton Et Cetera Shop! On Friday and Saturday afternoons, April 22 & 23, we’ll have activities to reduce our carbon footprints by fixing what we have! Check our facebook page (facebook.com/newtonetc) for details about our Earth Day weekend schedule.
 

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CAMP MENNOSCAH ANNOUNCEMENTS

The summer staffers for 2022 are (alphabetical by first name) Ben Rudeen (music), Beth Balzer (crafts), Charlie Major (lifeguard plus…), Ethan Entz (unassigned), Harley McCormick (office), Jonah Schloneger (unassigned), Maddie Bollinger (lifeguard), and Schlyer Entz (lifeguard).

Summer Youth Camp scholarships are available.  Contact us at 620-297-3290 or fill out the request form.  Camp is for everyone!  

Other events and happenings: 
 

• April 23 is a Work and Play Day at Camp Mennoscah!  We’re starting at 8:30am at the maintenance shed. A crew with dirt haulers/diggers and trucks is needed to complete the amphitheater project. We’d be thrilled to have you sign up! Contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290 to register or for more information.
• Camp Mennoscah is having a Verenike Casserole Fundraiser on April 30!  If you enjoyed the meal last year, this will be very similar–more details will be coming soon! Meal: verenike casserole, seasoned green beans, zweiback, and fruit crisp.
• Nurses needed for Summer Youth Camps!  Your time and skill give campers a week of growing in Christian fellowship and experiencing God’s great creation.  Nurses need RN certification or equivalent.  Nurses are needed for June 12-18, June 23-25, July 3-9, and July 24-29.  Contact us at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org
• Volunteer a day or more at camp!  Bring a group or come by yourself and tackle a project at camp.  See the attached project list for just a few ideas!  Projects for all ages and sizes of groups are available.  Contact us at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org.
   
• Masks would be optional, if camp happened today.  Campers would stay in cabins.  Campers/staff who are not fully vaccinated would need to provide a negative COVID test.  Call 620-297-3290 for more information.  Scholarships available.
   
• 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.

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ROCKY MOUNTAIN MENNONITE CAMP ANNOUNCEMENTS

SPRUCE BEETLE PACKET WORKDAY APRIL 23TH – The effort to minimize the impact of the spruce beetle here at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp continues with the favorable trends we’ve seen of less beetles. Pheromone packets continue to be disbursed around camp to “communicate” to the beetles to go elsewhere. We need your help by signing up on the camp’s Volunteer page and selecting the “Signup for Maintenance“ button. Friday night accommodations are offered by request and meals will begin with breakfast Saturday morning at 8:00 a.m. Hope to have you join us!

SKY-HI-VIEW CARPET REMOVE APRIL 30TH – With the new shower and bathroom renovation for the Sky-Hi-View cabin, the excellent opportunity to greatly improve the flooring for the entire cabin presented itself. Before the new vinyl planks in the bathroom and kitchen/entry along with new carpet in the living space and bedrooms can be installed, the deep blue carpet needs to be removed. So come join us for the day of good food to go with a good project. Please sign up on the camp’s Volunteer page and select the “Signup for Maintenance“ button.
 

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MENNONITE DISASTER SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS

Spring is here! Include service in your plans by joining an MDS project. For any questions or further information, call 800-241-8111 or email volunteer@mds.org.

Weekly Volunteer Opportunities Okanogan, WA – 2020 Fires Apr 10-16; up to 4 people Apr 17-23; up to 5 people Apr 24-30; up to 4 people Paradise, CA – 2018 Camp Fire May 1-7; up to 7 people May 8-14; up to 11 people May 22-28; up to 12 people May 29-Jun 4; up to 9 people Jul 10-16; up to 12 people Jul 17-23; up to 12 people Jennings, LA – 2020 Hurricanes May 8-14; up to 14 people May 22-28; up to 12 people May 29-Jun 4; up to 3 people For more information or to serve call 800-241-8111 or email dfrey@mds.orgView Weekly Volunteer OpportunitiesMDS Summer Youth Program There are a few remaining openings for your youth group to serve with MDS this summer! Camp Shiktehawk, NB July 3-9; up to 10 people July 17-23; up to 7 people Grand Lake, CO – 2020 Fire July 3-9; up to 15 people Paradise, CA – 2018 Camp Fire July 3-9; up to 7 people July 10-16; up to 15 people July 17-23; up to 15 people For more information or to serve, please contact: Canadian site: Clara Flores at 866-261-1274 or email cflores@mds.org. U.S. projects: Deanna Frey at 800-241-8111 or email dfrey@mds.orgView Summer Youth Program Opportunities

Leadership Volunteer Opportunities Okanogan, WA – 2020 Fires Head Cook, Apr 23-30 Paradise, CA – 2018 Camp Fire Head Cook, Apr 23-30 Two Crew Leaders, Apr 30-May 21 Three Crew Leaders, May 21-Jun 4 Head Cook, May 21-Jun 4 Assistant Cook, May 21-Jul 2 Construction Supervisor, May 25-Jun 25 Two Crew Leaders, Jun 4-Jul 2 Three Crew Leaders, Jul 2-30 McAllen, Texas – 2018 Flooding Head Cook, May 3-26 Jennings, LA – 2020 Hurricanes Two Crew Leaders, May 4-Jun 4 Crew Leader, May 4-Jun 4 Crew Leader, May 28-Jun 25 Assistant Cook, May 28-Jun 25 Head Cook, Jun 4-11 Two Crew Leaders, Jun 25-Jul 30 Assistant Cook, Jun 25-Jul 30 Office Manager, Jun 25-Jul 30 Head Cook, Jul 2-30 Monte Lake, BC – 2021 White Rock Fire Head Cook, May 28-Jun 4 Two Crew Leaders, May 28-Jul 2 Office Manager, Jun 16-Jul 16 Head Cook, Jun 25-Jul 30 Crew Leader, Jul 2-30 Three Crew Leaders, Jul 30-Sep 3 Project Director, Aug 11-Sep 3 Office Manager, Aug 11-Sep 3 Grand Lake, CO – 2020 Fire Head Cook, Jun 25-Jul 29 Assistant Cook, Jun 25-Jul 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.orgView Leadership Volunteer Opportunities

MDS Family Program The MDS Family Program offers a weeklong summertime experience for the whole family to put hands and feet to the gospel. This year, MDS is planning to offer a family project in both the U.S. (Camp Amigo, MI) and Canada (Princeton, BC). 

Princeton, BC Family Project July 17-23; up to 12 people July 24-30; up to 12 people July 31-Aug 6; up to 12 people Aug 7-13; up to 12 peopleCamp Amigo, MI Family Project July 10-14; up to 8 people July 24-30; up to 12 people

For more information or to serve, please contact: Canadian site: Kelsey Friesen at 866-261-1274 or email kfriesen@mds.org. U.S. project: Deanna Frey at 800-241-8111 or email dfrey@mds.org.

MDS is hiring! If you want to make a difference and you thrive in an exciting, fast-paced disaster response environment, consider one of our openings at Mennonite Disaster Service. Learn more on our website: https://mds.org/employment/

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For Mennonite Creation Care press here
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here
You are invited to write a Blog for Mennonite Church USA – for information press here
For Mennonite Mission Network Mustard Seeds press here

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MENNONITE CHURCH USA ANNOUNCEMENTS
Registration is open for Mennonite Church USA’s Special Session of the Delegate Assembly, May 27-30, 2022, in Kansas City, Missouri. The deadline for registration is May 16. The deadline for hotel reservations is May 4. For more information, visit mennoniteusa.org/special-delegate

Record your family’s births, marriages and deaths for free using Mennonite Church USA Archives’ vital records form on the Archives home page here: mennoniteusa.org/historical-archives/

Menno Snapshots
In her blog, “Hope and Growth in the Wilderness,” Alysa Short writes, “I was reminded at Pastors & Leaders | Deep Faith 2022 at AMBS that the wilderness is real. We cannot hide from it. We all encounter it. The road isn’t always easy; it gets rough. But there is an expiration date.” Read more of her reflections here: mennoniteusa.org/hope-growth-wilderness

Menno Snapshots
Erick Josue Martinez shares that “The stories I tell, the moments I experience and the people I meet are not unique to just me. In Mennonite Church USA’s ‘Diversity: God’s Design’ curriculum, I shared different situations that made me feel uncomfortable and excluded.” Read more about his story here: mennoniteusa.org/coexisting-not-enough

Menno Snapshots
In a recent blog, Mark Jantzen, a professor of history at Bethel College, wrote about the numerous connections between the Ukraine and Mennonite Church USA. He wrote the blog while on sabbatical and conducting research in Gdansk, Poland, where he observed the many Ukrainian refugees arriving in Poland. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/connections-ukraine-mc-usa

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Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request:  On this Easter Sunday, join Mennonite Mission Network’s 161 workers and 116 partner organizations throughout the United States and in 47 countries around the world in proclaiming the message of Jesus’ resurrection power and love to those you encounter. Pray that each of God’s children will be a faithful witness.

Western District Conference Prayer Request:  Give thanks for the good news of resurrection, and for WDC congregations as they bear witness to God’s gift of new life in Christ!

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HAPPY EASTER!

As we continue to seek God’s way on our Lenten journey, we will gather for a Maundy Thursday worship service, April 14 at 7 pm in the sanctuary.  We will share in Christ’s body through communion and also share resources by contributing financially to the Deacon’s Caring Fund.  Please join us in-person or virtually for this time as we remember and enact Jesus’ last supper.

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For your calendars
There will be a memorial service for Larry Friesen, Saturday, April 16 at 3 pm in the BCMC Sanctuary.   You are welcome to attend in person or view the service live-streamed through the BCMC website.

Plan to attend the congregational meeting  April 24, in the sanctuary at 1 pm.   The meeting will also be live-streamed.

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BCMC Offering for April 3 2022  General Fund $12,107; Sr Hi Youth $25; Living Stones $2,058.12; Flower Fund $88; Women’s Fellowship $340

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Church Retreat at Camp Mennoscah
Come one, come all – to the 2022 BCMC Camp Mennoscah Church Retreat! This year’s retreat is on May 7-8 (Mother’s Day Weekend), and we hope that you’ll be able to join us for some fun, fellowship, fishing, and festivities in the glory of God’s fantastic creation. Meals and lodging are both available, and pre-registration is strongly encouraged. There won’t be worship in the BCMC building on May 8, so even if spending the night isn’t for you, please consider making the trip out on Sunday morning to worship – where we will hopefully be celebrating the act of baptism again.

If you have any questions or would like to help out in anyway, please reach out to Adam Robb (adamandjillrobb@gmail.com) and if you’re planning to attend, please use the link here https://forms.gle/FAhg5S Zorn’s rH6 to sign up! Thanks, and we hope to see you there!

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This week at BCMCSunday, April 10, 2022—Palm Sunday
9:30 am    Worship Service (in person and live streamed)
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
Children and youth Sunday School classes! 10:30-11:30 am
Preschoolers – Room B4        Middlers (3rd-8th graders) – Room 26
High School – Room 24   Koinonia (college students welcome!) – The Agape House   The Agape Class will meet in Room B8
Adult Classes (If meeting):  Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5);
Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Book Study (Rm 20); Open Circle (Room 21); Seekers (Rm 28); Sojourners (Chapel)
Monday, April 11, 2022
Deadline for commission and committee members to have their Annual Reports into the church office for the Annual Report Booklet (for the April 24 Congregational Meeting)
Tuesday,  April 12, 2022
9-11 am     Community Playschool
4 pm          Lent Prayers by Zoom
Wednesday, April 13, 2022
7-8 pm      Youth Group in Fellowship Hall
7 pm          Wednesday Night Club for 3rd to 8th Graders
7:30 pm     Chancel Choir in the Sanctuary
Thursday, April 14, 2022—Maundy Thursday
4 pm           Staff Congregation Relations Committee meeting in Room 14
6:15 pm     Chancel Bells in Room B7
7 pm           Maundy Thursday Service in the Sanctuary
7:30 pm     Finance Committee meeting in Fellowship Hall
Friday, April 15, 2022—Good Friday
Saturday, April 16, 2022
3 pm          Memorial for Larry Friesen in the Sanctuary—You are welcome to attend in person or view the service live-streamed through the BCMC website
Sunday, April 17—Easter Sunday
9:30 am  Worship Service (in person and live streamed)

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BCMC Library News
The current Library Theme is a timely topic, Stories from Ukraine. We have several books that are new to our Ukraine collection and should be added this week. Come check out what our library has to offer!

The Library Committee would like to extend our puzzle sale as a mini fundraiser to support the buying of more books! If you have a puzzle that is in excellent/very good condition, please consider donating it to the library and we will sell it for $5! Let’s rotate our jigsaw puzzles, have fun, and support the library! 

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Dr. John and Clara Schmidt – former members of Alexanderwohl and First Mennonite – were Mennonite medical pioneers in Paraguay, S.A (1941-2001). Their 60-year saga of service and adventure is now documented in a new book, CALLED. The authors, Marlena Fiol and Ed O’Connor, will share a behind-the-scenes look at what motivated them to write the book, where the seven years of research took them, and some of the reactions they’ve received to the book from a wide range of readers — including family members and leaders of the Mennonite Central Committee. Join this live virtual event via Zoom or watch on Facebook Live.
https://www.facebook.com/events/726332378727712/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22surface%22%3A%22page%22%7D]%7D

Zoom Link:   https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_3RlXxVnSQ6e1pS17yjyvRg

Library Happenings

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Community Playschool Annual Meeting
The annual meeting of the Corporation of the Community Playschool, Inc. will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, April 11, 2022, Fellowship Hall, Bethel College Mennonite Church. This meeting will be open to members of the corporation which includes members of sponsoring churches. All are welcome! 
 

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Camp Mennoscah is having a Verenike Casserole Fundraiser on April 30!  If you enjoyed the meal last year, this will be very similar–more details will be coming soon!Meal:  verenike casserole, seasoned green beans, zweiback, and fruit crisp.Summer youth camps and retreats are a vital and living part of faith formation for youth and young adults.  Your meal donation will support Camp Mennoscah’s mission to love one another, build relationships and follow Jesus Christ.

UPDATE for Summer Youth Camps!!  If camp happened today, masks would be optional.  Campers would stay in cabins.  Campers/staff who are not fully vaccinated would need to provide a negative COVID test.  Activities would be done together, though additional activities may be done outside.  See www.campmennoscah.org for more information.

UPDATE for groups!!  You are invited to set your own precautions based on the comfort level of your group.  Please note the RV electrical hookups are not available due to safety concerns.

Other events and happenings: 

• April 23 is a Work and Play Day at Camp Mennoscah!  We’re starting at 8:30am at the maintenance shed.  We’d like to complete the amphitheater project, but we need a crew with trucks and dirt haulers/diggers!  Contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290 to register or for more information.
• Volunteer a day or more at camp!  Bring a crew and tackle a project at camp.  Projects for all ages and sizes of groups are available.  Contact us at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org.
• Nursesneeded for Summer Youth Camps!  Your time and skill give campers a week of growing in Christian fellowship and experiencing God’s great creation.  Nurses need RN certification or equivalent.  Nurses are needed for June 12-18, June 19-23, June 23-25, July 3-9, and July 24-29.  Contact us at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org.

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The Rocky Mountain April newsletter is here!  Have a look at the latest/greatest happenings here at RMMC. For this and previous newsletters, please visit the camp website and click on the “News” tab under “About Us”.

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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 Women in Mission invites all women to a virtual “Meet-up” on Tuesday, April 26^th, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.  Please join us as we hear from Barbara Gingrich, Cheryl Kaufman, and Cindy Thompson from Lorraine Avenue Mennonite Church in Wichita about their Knit4Peace project. Then, Sarah Augustine will discuss her personal life journey and book she authored called The Land is Not Empty: Following Jesus in Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery (Herald Press, 2021). Sarah is a Pueblo (Tewa) descendant and founder and cochair of the Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery Coalition and Executive Director of a dispute resolution center in central Washington State. She is a columnist for Anabaptist World and co-hosts the Doctrine of Discovery podcast with Sheri Hostetler. Following the event, you will be invited to participate in an online survey to provide your ideas about future Western District Women in Mission activities. We hope you will be willing to share your input on how WDWM plays an important role for women today. To register for this event, please email westerndistrictwomen@gmail.com by Monday, April 25 and you will be sent the Zoom link.

How Can We Help?  On April 21, 7 pm the WDC Immigration Task Force invites you to learn the latest on how to support new migrants and refugees near you and learn about how to join the mission of two organizations who have been working at refugee resettlement and immigration justice for many years. We will be glad to network briefly with each other about our congregation’s work in this area. Guest speakers will be Charity Stowell (MCC Newcomer Connections Coordinator) and Jen Rafter (International Rescue Committee Development Coordinator). To receive the Zoom link, please register by emailing wdc@mennowdc.org by April 20.

“Race is one of the hardest topics to discuss in America. Many White Christians avoid talking about it altogether. But a commitment to peacemaking requires White people to step out of their comfort and privilege and into the work of anti-racism. Dear White Peacemakers is an invitation to White Christians to come to the table and join this hard work and holy calling.”  —from the back cover.
Join us to discuss dear white peacemakers by Osheta Moore via Zoom on Thursday, April 28 from 7:00-8:00pm. Contact the WDC Resource Library at crlib@mennowdc.org to register for the discussion or borrow a copy of the book.

Save the Date – Saturday, April 30 there will be a book sale outside the WDC Offices in North Newton, KS with donations and old library books looking for new homes. Watch for more details next week!

BETHEL COLLEGE ANNOUNCEMENTS

• Sun., April 10 – Bethel College Women’s Chorus concert, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel (may be different from some previously printed material) 
• Mon., April 11 – Bethel College presents Suffering Church: How Theatre Can Help Us Learn from Those Who Leave, an original play by Karen Robu, D.Min., director of theater at Bethel and associate minister at Plymouth Congregational Church, Wichita, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. The play contains mature subject matter and is not intended for young audiences. This performance is supported by the Greer Endowment at Bethel College. 
• Weds., April 13 – Bethel College faculty jazz recital: Joel Boettger, saxophone, 7 p.m., with William Flynn, guitar, Steve Hatfield, drums, and Chris Shaw, upright bass; Administration Building chapel
• Tues., April 19 – Bethel College Orchestra concert under the direction of Kristopher Hilding, 7:30 p.m., Memorial Hall.
• Fri., April 22 – Bethel College student Bryce Wilson, junior saxophone recital, 7 p.m., Ad Building chapel

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

Join Mennonite Central Committee and Church World Service from 1:00-2:00 p.m. CT on Tuesday, April 12 to learn more about the refugee resettlement process in the U.S., challenges and opportunities refugees encounter when they settle into their new community, and the ways in which churches can get involved. Register here for this virtual learning event https://bit.ly/3tPpTXh

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MENNONITE CHURCH USA ANNOUNCEMENTS
MC USA has launched a new curriculum entitled, Diversity: God’s Design. This multi-media study calls young adults to celebrate their unique gifts and the intentional diversity of God’s creation. The four-week curriculum uses biblical reflections to introduce the importance of intercultural competency as part of Christian growth and formation. Find it here: mennoniteusa.org/diversity-gods-design/

Pastors & Leaders | Deep Faith 2022, a joint conference of Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary and Mennonite Church USA Faith Formation, looked to the Early Church for inspiration to lead with hope today during the Feb. 21–24 gathering. View the videos of the conference’s plenary sessions here. ambs.edu/pastorsandleaders 

Menno Snapshots
Mennonite Church USA (MC USA) invites you to join Mennonite World Conference in offering a prayer for all Ukrainians, including our Mennonite siblings in Ukraine. Read the prayer here: mennoniteusa.org/prayer-request-ukraine

Menno Snapshots
Sibonokuhle Ncube, a speaker who preached at the Pastors & Leaders | Deep Faith 2022 conference, wants to congratulate church leaders on their direction and wisdom through this unprecedented and ongoing pandemic context! As the existential circumstance has raged on, the battle to bring equanimity between desperate demand for hands on deck and a constrained supply for super-powered leaders has raised the profile of church leaders. Read more from her blog here: mennoniteusa.org/run-fight-endure

Menno Snapshots
In his blog, “Repairing the Earth: A biblical call to peace giving,” Everence’s Beryl Jantzi writes, “We’re all familiar with the concept of peacemaking. But have you considered peace giving? Looking back over Old Testament practices and Jewish history, we come across an ancient concept called ‘tikkun olam’ which means repairing the earth.” Continue reading here: mennoniteusa.org/repairing-earth-biblical-call

Menno Snapshots
Sue Park-Hur, the denominational minister for Transformative Peacemaking for Mennonite Church USA, shares stories of her experiences as an Asian American woman in her Los Angeles neighborhood. “As I was walking around the neighborhood this morning, I prayed. I asked God to give me an imagination where sidewalks and other public spaces can be a safe and shared place for everyone.” Continue reading here: mennoniteusa.org/sidewalk-stories

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Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request:  Christy Harrison and Peter Sensenig, jointly serving with Eastern Mennonite Missions and Mennonite Mission Network, traveled to Benin and Chad in preparation for a new ministry among Muslim and Christian believers. Pray for them as they complete their assignment at Paris (France) Mennonite Center and discern God’s leading into their next ministry location. 
Western District Conference Prayer Request:  Pray for all WDC congregations as we journey through this Holy Week, remembering Jesus’ death and recognizing his presence in places of suffering and grief in our communities and world today.

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This week at BCMC
Sunday, April 3, 2022—5th Sunday of Lent
9:30 am    Worship Service (in person and live streamed)
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
Children and youth Sunday School classes! 10:30-11:30 am
Preschoolers – Room B4        Middlers (3rd-8th graders) – Room 26
High School – Room 24   Koinonia (college students welcome!) – The Agape House
The Agape Class will meet in Room B8
Adult Classes (If meeting):  Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5);
Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Book Study (Rm 20); Open Circle (Room 21); Seekers (Rm 28); Sojourners (Chapel)
Monday,  April 4, 2022
7 pm         Facilities Committee meeting in Fellowship Hall
Tuesday,  April 5, 2022
9-11 am     Community Playschool
4 pm          Lent Prayers by Zoom
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
6-8 pm      Youth Group in Fellowship Hall
7 pm          Wednesday Night Club for 3rd to 8th Graders
7:30 pm    Chancel Choir in the Sanctuary
Thursday, April 7, 2022
4 pm          Lent Prayers by Zoom
6:15 pm    Chancel Bells in Room B7
7 pm          Church Board Meeting
Friday and Saturday, April 8-9, 2022—Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale
Sunday, April 10—Palm Sunday
9:30 am  Worship Service (in person and live streamed)
10:30 am Faith Formation

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The Memorial Service for Mary Ann Unruh Gertsen will be Saturday, April 2, 11 am, in the BCMC sanctuary.  Mary Ann died October 25, 2021.   The service will be live-streamed.

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This Sunday, April 3- the Central Kansas Master Chorale, a newly formed, select community ensemble, will be performing a concert at Trinity Lutheran Church in McPherson. All area communities are invited to attend.  
Who: Central Kansas Master Chorale
What: Concert featuring Haydn’s Little Organ Mass
When: Sunday, April 3 @ 2:00pm
Where:  Trinity Lutheran Church, 119 North Elm St, McPherson KS
Admission is free.
Joel Garber, D.M.A.
Artistic Director
Central Kansas Master Chorale

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Here is The Kaleidoscope – BCMC Newsletter for March-April 2022
Click here

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BCMC Offering for March 27, 2022
General Fund $6,490; Adult Choir $50; Living Stones $55; Flower Fund $33

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Thank you for being a part of the BCMC pictorial directory!  The Hospitality Commission would like to extend our thanks to everyone that participated in the photography sessions last week at the church.  Your promptness, patience, and perfect poses helped to make this endeavor successful. We are anticipating the final pictorial directory and your free 8 X 10 photo to be available by the end of June.
If you have any questions regarding your portrait orders or to order additional portraits, please contact Melinda, at Re:Member Church Directories customer service department at 336-724-5482 or rcdcustomerservice@gmail.com.
If you or a family member were not able to have your picture taken, you may still submit a digital photo for publication in the directory. Please send a digital head and shoulders photo to d.whillock@cox.net
Pictures should be oriented vertically, not horizontally. Photos cannot be from another professional photographer because of copyright issues. Please list names of all people in the photo from left to right. The final deadline for this is April 2. Act quickly, no late photos can be published!! We want all BCMC members and attendees to be included!
If you send in a digital photo and would like a copy of the pictorial directory, we are asking for a $10.00 donation to cover the cost of printing. You can send this to the church office and clearly designate it is for the pictorial directory.
Thank you again for being a part of this project.
the Hospitality Commission

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Women’s Fellowship AnnouncementApril 19, 2022 @ 7:00 pm in the BCMC Fellowship Hall

Women of BCMC: It is time to gather! This is an invitation to ALL Women of BCMC. ALL who attend will receive a free birthday calendar. Contact a member of the Leadership Team (Lois Brubacher, Lois Preheim, Brenda Turner, Janet Voth) if you cannot attend, but would like a free birthday calendar.
Let’s Celebrate Life!

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Lent Prayers 
Pastoral staff at BCMC will be facilitating prayers during lent on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at 4 pm.  This is a time to take a break from the day and let evening come.  We will pray together via Zoom for about 15-20 minutes using the daily prayer book from the Corrymeela Community, northern Ireland’s longest running peace and reconciliation organization: Daily Prayer with the Corrymeela Community by Padraig O Tuama.The next prayer times will be March 22 and 24.
Below is the link for our lent prayers via zoom using Daily Prayer with the Corrymeela Community as our guide.  This same link should work for each prayer time.  
Bethel College Mennonite Church is inviting you to a lent prayer Zoom meeting on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85751414152?pwd=MDN0a0x1Z2xSbUtyMU4xWHlQZFR1UT09
Meeting ID: 857 5141 4152
Passcode: 834612

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Rainbow Signs at BCMC
Since the church has historically been a harmful place for LGBTQ+ people, we find it necessary to explicitly show welcome and affirmation for LGBTQ+ people who may enter our church doors. Therefore a small rainbow sign has been placed near each entryway at our church.  If you have questions or comments about how our church can become more welcoming, please contact any member of the Inclusion Task Group: Megan Kohlman, Karen Ediger, John Kliewer, Karen Penner, or Nathan Koontz.

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Easter Lillies
You are invited to share an Easter lily for the sanctuary on Easter Sunday, Apr. 17. The Worship Decoration Committee will purchase lilies.  To contribute, email your information to the church office about the donor of the lily and who is to be either honored or remembered. Place payment of $11.00 per lily in the offering plate or bring to the church office by Apr.3.  Make checks payble to BCMC designated “Flower Fund.”   There will be a table at the back of the sanctuary this Sunday to sign up for a lily.  Contributors may pick up lilies to take home after the Easter worship service. 

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The annual meeting of the Corporation of the Community Playschool, Inc. will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, April 11, 2022, Fellowship Hall, Bethel College Mennonite Church. This meeting will be open to members of the corporation which includes members of sponsoring churches. All are welcome! 

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There will be a Mentor and Mentee event on Sunday, April 24th from 4-6pm at the North Newton pickleball court. Faith Formation will lead some Bible minute to win it games, there will be yard games and snacks available, and hopefully some fun pickleball games for all to enjoy. Reach out to your mentor or mentee and come and spend some quality time together! 

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The Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale Needs You!
CALLING ALL BAKERS:  There will be  sign-up sheets at the back of the sanctuary each Sunday through April 3 for persons willing to take the time and energy to help alleviate physical suffering around the world by baking pies, Zwieback, etc., for the Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale.  Don’t pass up this chance to exercise your culinary skills in the service of Christ and his kin-dom.

Help is needed in many different ways for the Sale weekend.  Below is a list of the different booths that have their​sign-up sheets on the website.  I have listed volunteers needed as of Thursday evening at the different locations.  

www.kansas.mccsale.org  select volunteer tab to sign up.  Thanks!

Plants & Things:
Friday 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm – 2 cashiers
Saturday 8:00am to 10:00am – 1 cashier

Make New Year Cookies:
Friday:
2:00 – 4:00 – 13 of 30 slots filled
4:00 – 6:00 – 6 of 30 slots filled
Saturday:
7:00am – 9:00am – 12 of 30 slots filled
1:00pm – 3:00pm – 4 of 10 slots filled (clean up) 
Packaging and Selling New Year Cookies – Domestic Arts
Friday:
4:30 – 6:00 – need 2 volunteers
6:00 – 8:00 – need 1 volunteer
Saturday:
7:30am – 9:30am – need 5 volunteers (no one signed up)
9:30 – 11:30 – need 3 volunteers
11:30 – 1:30 – need 3 volunteers 
Verenike Frying / Serving in Domestic Arts – check time slots and positions available online
Friday shifts – 4 out of 36 filled
Saturday shifts – 5 out of 50 positions filled 
T-Shirt Booth
Friday 6:00 – 8:00 need 1 volunteer
Saturday
7:45am – 10:00am – need 4 volunteers (no one is signed up)
10:00 – 12:00 – need 2 volunteers
12:00 – 2:00 – need 4 volunteers (no one is signed up)

Verenike Frying Friday Night (FTM)
Friday:
2:00 – 4:00 – 3 of 10 slots filled
4:00 – 6:00 – 9 of 10 slots filled
6:00 – 8:00 – 7 of 10 slots filled

Kansas Crafts
Thursday – 1 of 8 slots filled – help with unloading and set up
Friday:
8:00 – 4:00 – come when you can, for as long as you can – 4 of 15 slots filled
3:30 – 6:30 – 1 of 8 slots filled
Saturday:
8:00 – 10:30 – 2 of 5 slots filled
10:00 – 12:30 – 5 of 7 slots filled
12:30 – 2:00 – 1 of 10 slots filled 
Breakfast Helpers
Saturday 7:00 – 10:00 – clean/wipe tables – no one signed up 
Feeding the Multitude – select the position you want online
Friday:
4:00 – 6:00 – still need 26 workers
6:00 – 8:00 – still need 14 workers
Saturday:
10:30 – 1:00 – still need 36 workers 

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Save the date for the BCMC all church retreat May 7-8 at Camp Mennoscah! Everyone is invited to spend the night, join for the day activities, or come up for Sunday morning. More information will be coming!

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BETHEL COLLEGE BULLETIN ANNOUNCEMENTS
Sun., April 3 – Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum program, John M. Janzen, “Drums or Organ: Contesting Musical Styles in African Christianity,” 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum auditorium. This program is associated with the current special exhibit marking 125 years of Kauffman Museum, and Janzen will be talking about items included in the exhibit. Due to the impracticality of social distancing, face coverings will be required indoors regardless of vaccination status.

TODAY (Sun., April 3) – Senior recital by Bethel College student Emma Beachy, piano, 4 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center

Tues., April 5 – Bethel College Jazz Combo and Jazz Ensemble, featuring guest artist Aaron Linscheid, trumpet, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center.

Thurs., April 7 – Closing reception for Susan and David Harmon and “Painterly Aesthetics: An Expressive Duet,” 6-8 p.m., Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College.

Sun., April 10 – Bethel College Women’s Chorus concert, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel (may be different from some previously printed calendars)

Mon., April 11 – Bethel College presents Suffering Church, an original play by Karen Robu, D.Min., director of theater at Bethel and associate minister at Plymouth Congregational Church, Wichita, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. The play contains mature subject matter and is not intended for young audiences. This performance is supported by the Greer Endowment at Bethel College.

Weds., April 13 – Bethel College faculty jazz recital: Joel Boettger, saxophone, 7 p.m., with William Flynn, guitar, Steve Hatfield, drums, and Chris Shaw, upright bass; Administration Building chapel

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

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Mennonite Disaster Service Announcement

Re: Cottonwood Complex fire in Reno County Kansas

Cottonwood Complex Fire

The Kansas Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) has been responding to the Cottonwood Complex Fire in Reno County Kansas. We have completed 17 jobs of clearing debris from homes that were a total loss in the fire and have 5 more sites we are working on. We will be concluding the clean up phase of the disaster response soon. Thanks to all of the volunteers who responded with equipment and labor in this project, Cleo Koop Kansas MDS Chair person. 

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Everence^® April webinar: Social Security and retirement income
Everence^® will hold an informative Social Security and retirement income webinar on Tuesday, April 12, 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. 
Securities offered through Concourse Financial Group Securities, Inc., Member FINRA/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. 
Darlene Buller
Office Manager
Everence Financial 
3179 N Main St Ste 1B
North Newton, KS 67117-9005
877-467-7294, ext. 4752
316-283-3800, ext. 4752
Fax: 316-333-1808
everence.com
everence.com/kansas

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CAMP MENNOSCAH ANNOUNCEMENTS

Men and Boys Retreat is this weekend, April 1-3!No pre-registration needed. Bring a father, son, brother, mentor, or friend to Camp Mennoscah for this long-standing, guys-only retreat! Claim a place to sleep in the cabins, bunkhouses or sleep in your own tent under the stars. Meals can be purchased for Saturday night, Sunday morning and lunch. Registration and payment will take place upon arrival. For more information, contact Kevin Neufeld at 316-322-5515.

Other events and happenings: 

• Youth Volunteer Weekend is April 9-10!  This weekend of service and worship for grades 6-12 returns with vigor.  Start your weekend of fun on Saturday at the MCC Sale in Hutchinson (on your own or with your youth group) and then bring the fun with you to Camp Mennoscah in the afternoon.Register at www.campmennoscah.org!  (Registration is under Summer Camps.)  
   
• April 23 is a Work and Play Day at Camp Mennoscah!  Details are forthcoming for projects.  We’d like to complete the amphitheater project–a crew with trucks and dirt haulers/diggers is needed!  Contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290 to register or for more information.
   
• Kitchen helpersneeded for Summer Youth Camps!  Your time and skill give campers a week of growing in Christian fellowship and experiencing God’s great creation.  Cooks need only willing hands and the ability to follow directions.  Kitchen staff is needed for July 3-9 and July 17-23.  Contact us at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org. 
   
• “Better” camp discount ends April 1!  Summer Youth Camp registration is open.  The theme of “What’s in a Name?” focuses on how God knows us beyond any name we may be called.  After April 1, you’ll still get a good rate for an amazing week of camp.  Register at www.campmennoscah.org!
   
• Getting ready for outside fun!  Camp Mennoscah needs to replace some outdoor sports equipment, including 4-square/Gaga balls, frisbees for ultimate, inner tubes and air pump.  Check out the Camp Mennoscah Wish List on amazon.com or the Wish List.  Challenge your Sunday School class or youth group to help meet camp needs!  We’ve got many more ideas. Contact us by replying to this email.
   
• New Volunteer Projects every month!  This month we’ve added cleaning gutters, lubricating locks, and deep-cleaning the oven and hood–plus more!There are volunteer projects for every group size, skill set and length of project.  Email office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to volunteer.  See the Wish List for other ways to support Camp Mennoscah!

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Mennonite World Conference Assembly news press here
Mennonite Creation Care Network Newsletter press here
Mennonite Mission Network press here
Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

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WEBINAR FROM MENNONITE CENTRAL COMMITTEE

Over the past month, we have borne witness to a heartbreaking refugee crisis in Ukraine. We’ve seen families forced to make life or death decisions in a matter of hours. We’ve watched as mothers and grandparents crowd into trains, cars and buses to cross borders with their children, unsure of where they will go next or when they will be able to return.  

Sadly, this refugee journey is not unique to Ukrainians. According to the United Nations, there are over 26 million refugees throughout the world who have been forced to flee their communities. Less than 1% will find safety in the U.S., but for the families accepted into the U.S. resettlement program, the journey does not end when they arrive in their new communities. 

You are invited to join MCC and Church World Service on Tuesday, April 12, at 2 PM EDT for a webinar to learn more about how to welcome refugees in your community. During this time, we’ll address questions such as: 

• Who are refugees? 
• How do refugees come to the U.S.? 
• What does the refugee resettlement process look like? 
• What are some challenges and opportunities refugees encounter when they settle into their new community? 
• What are some ways each of us can get involved and support refugees in the U.S.?

To register, click here. We’d love to have you join us. Please share this event with friends and family so you can learn and welcome as a community. If you have questions, please contact me — MCC’s Newcomer Connections Coordinator — at welcome@mcc.org. 

Peace,
Charity Stowell 
Newcomer Connections Coordinator
MCC U.S. National Peace & Justice Ministries
 

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MENNONITE CHURCH USA ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mennonite Education Agency of Mennonite Church USA has released its free Lent at Home 2022 worship guide and calendar for download. The annual guide provides options for individuals and households to follow daily or weekly rituals, which include guided Scripture readings, prayers and special activities for the Lenten season. Download it here: mennoniteusa.org/lentathome

Are you attending the Special Session of the Delegate Assembly on May 27-30 in Kansas City? Then, you won’t want to miss the “Expectations of the Special Session of the Delegate Assembly” webinar! Executive board and staff members will review the agenda and the voting process, provide tips for engagement, offer suggestions on what to bring, and highlight opportunities for worship and fellowship. Se ofrecerá servicio de intérprete al español. Register here: mennoniteusa.org/register-expectations

Mennonite Men, a constituency group of Mennonite Church USA, invites all men to join them for a week-long Oregon Eco-excursion on June 11-19. Explore wild spaces, learn about God’s creation and help with newly planted trees along the Zena Forest. For more information and to register (by April 11), visit: mennoniteusa.org/men-eco-excursion

Menno Snapshots
“Whaat? It’s still Lent?” Read about author Talashia Keim Yoder’s at-home Lenten experience and her family’s joys and sorrows along the way. “Our family loved the Advent ritual of candle lighting,” wrote the author of this year’s Lent at Home guide, “and we naively assumed Lent would be just as beloved. Wrong. It felt like a long, long slog.” Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/seeking-jesus-lent

Menno Snapshots
Mary Lou Weaver Houser, artist and spiritual director, claims gardening as a metaphor for how she intends to nurture community on many levels, whether with personal/family relationships, neighborhood diversity/spirit, creative community at church, or biodiversity in our natural world. Read more about her “elemental love nature’s beauty” in her blog, “Ferocious Love.” mennoniteusa.org/ferocious-love

Menno Snapshots
“I often tell people that my two primary identities are being Black and being Mennonite. Both identities have formed me into the person that I am today, and, although it may not be obvious to many, the two intersect in so many ways,” writes Daniel Grimes in his blog, “Black history and the connection to Anabaptist faith values.” Continue his story here: mennoniteusa.org/black-history-connection-anabaptist

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Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request:  Tomorrow, Eastern Mennonite High School students will conclude their week-long Mennonite Mission Network civil rights tour in the southern United States through the Youth Venture program. Pray for participants as they apply their new perspectives to the injustice in their home communities and congregations. Pray also for participants in Youth Venture’s two July civil rights tours and an immigration/borderlands tour. Application deadline is May 1.

Western District Conference Prayer Request:  Pray for WDC’s Israel-Palestine Relations Task Force, as they host a zoom conversation this week with Jonathan Kuttab, and seek to raise awareness and deepen understanding of pathways toward justice and peace.

March 27, 2022-Fourth Sunday in Lent
We encourage you to wear your name tags.  The service will also be live streamed.

Update on Mask Wearing at BCMC
Due to the updated  Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommendations and the very low level of COVID transmission in Harvey County, the Reopening Church Task Force recommends mask wearing at BCMC be optional based on personal preference, until further notice.

We will continue to watch the number of COVID cases in our community and remain vigilant of our collective health needs. We ask that you be ready to mask again at BCMC, if COVID rates and CDC guidelines so indicate. Meanwhile, individuals should make decisions about masking based on their preference and level of risk.  Masks will continue to be available at church entrances for those who feel more comfortable wearing a mask in indoor settings.

Thank you for continuing to care for one another. 

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.
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
March 27, 2022
Prelude—Adagio in A Minor—(J.S. Bach)—Karen Schlabaugh, organ

Lighting the Christ Candle—Lois Preheim

Welcome and Prayer

Leader: Together we seek the way of God,
People: rejoicing that we are new creations in Christ.
Leader: From a human point of view, we demand what is ours,
People: but through Jesus we learn that all share in God’s inheritance.
Leader: Let us join God’s feast,
People: where all celebrate together.
ALL: Let us live out God’s way of inclusion.
Lenten Prayer of Confession

Leader: Holy One, we seek you while you may be found.
People: We call upon you while you are near.
Leader: Have mercy on us, O God, for our thoughts are not your thoughts, and our ways are not your ways.
People: Forgive us for thinking we deserve special treatment. Lead us to radical inclusion.
Leader: As we walk with Christ on this Lenten journey, let us see your way more clearly.
ALL: and follow your way more faithfully.

*Hymn—Far, Far Away/I Will Arise—VT 300

Children’s Conversation—Megan Kohlman

Scripture Reading—Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32—Lincoln and Brad Kohlman

Sermon—. . . with open arms—Todd Schlosser

*Hymn—Together—VT 389

Prayers of God’s people—Lois Preheim

 *Hymn—We Are People of God’s Peace—VT 797

*Benediction—Todd Schlosser

Postlude—Herzlich tut mich verlangen (Johann Gottfried Walther)—Karen Schlabaugh

VT = Voices Together

Audio visual—Ken Lamp
Pastors—Renee Reimer, Nathan Koontz, and Todd Schlosser

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This week at BCMC
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
Children and youth Sunday School classes! 10:30-11:30 am
Preschoolers – Room B4; Middlers (3rd-8th graders) – Room 26; High School – Room 24; Koinonia (college students welcome!) – Room B8
Adult Classes:  The Agape House; The Agape Class will meet in Room B8; Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21); Seekers (Rm 28); Sojourners (Chapel); Mosaic (Rm 20)
Monday,  March 28, 2022
9 am          Women’s Fellowship Leadership Meeting in Fellowship Hall
10 am        Library Committee in Room 14
Tuesday,  March 29, 2022
9-11 am    Community Playschool
4 pm          Lent Prayers by Zoom
Wednesday, March 30, 2022—Red Cross Blood Drive in Fellowship Hall
7 pm          Youth Group in Gathering Place
7 pm          Wednesday Night Club for 3rd to 8th Graders
7:30 pm    Chancel Choir in the Sanctuary
Thursday, March 31, 2022
4 pm          Witness Commission in Room 14
4 pm          Lent Prayers by Zoom
6:15 pm    Chancel Bells in Room B7
Saturday, April 2, 2022
11 am         Memorial for Mary Ann Gertsen in the Sanctuary
Sunday, April 3—5th Sunday of Lent
9:30 am  Worship Service (in person and live streamed)
10:30 am Faith Formation

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March 20, 2022 Offering at BCMC
General Fund $5,092; Adult Choir $40; Living Stones $75

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Address and Phone Number Changes for your BCMC Directories

• Chuck and Pat Friesen:  2581 Big Timber Rd., Lincoln, NE 68520
• Ben and Susan Harder:  4805 E. Hanover Ct., Sioux Falls, SD 57110
• LaWanda Wiens new cellphone number:  316-461-0843
• Justina Neufeld has discontinued her landline, her cellphone number:  620-931-8460

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Lent Prayers 
Pastoral staff at BCMC will be facilitating prayers during lent on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at 4 pm.  This is a time to take a break from the day and let evening come.  We will pray together via Zoom for about 15-20 minutes using the daily prayer book from the Corrymeela Community, northern Ireland’s longest running peace and reconciliation organization: Daily Prayer with the Corrymeela Community by Padraig O Tuama.The next prayer times will be March 22 and 24.
Below is the link for our lent prayers via zoom using Daily Prayer with the Corrymeela Community as our guide.  This same link should work for each prayer time.  
Bethel College Mennonite Church is inviting you to a lent prayer Zoom meeting on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85751414152?pwd=MDN0a0x1Z2xSbUtyMU4xWHlQZFR1UT09
Meeting ID: 857 5141 4152
Passcode: 834612

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Rainbow Signs at BCMC
Since the church has historically been a harmful place for LGBTQ+ people, we find it necessary to explicitly show welcome and affirmation for LGBTQ+ people who may enter our church doors. Therefore a small rainbow sign has been placed near each entryway at our church.  If you have questions or comments about how our church can become more welcoming, please contact any member of the Inclusion Task Group: Megan Kohlman, Karen Ediger, John Kliewer, Karen Penner, or Nathan Koontz.

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Easter Lillies
You are invited to share an Easter lily for the sanctuary on Easter Sunday, Apr. 17. The Worship Decoration Committee will purchase lilies.  To contribute, email your information to the church office about the donor of the lily and who is to be either honored or remembered. Place payment of $11.00 per lily in the offering plate or bring to the church office by Apr.3.  Make checks payble to BCMC designated “Flower Fund.”   There will be a table at the back of the sanctuary this Sunday to sign up for a lily.  Contributors may pick up lilies to take home after the Easter worship service. 

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Future Event to Place on your Calendars
The Memorial Service for Mary Ann Unruh Gertsen will be Saturday, April 2, 11 am, in the BCMC sanctuary.  Mary Ann died October 25, 2021.

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Collecting Supplies for our BCMC College Students!
Faith Formation Commission is collecting non-perishable goodies for our BCMC college students. We currently have 10 youth attending colleges in Virginia, Kansas, Minnesota, and Missouri. We would love to share our love and support with them in their final months of the year and are asking for donations of snacks, fast food gift cards, microwavable food (i.e. ramon, mac n cheese, popcorn, etc,), chewing gum, chapstick, hand sanitizer and masks, or cash. We invite people to bring 10 items for each of our students and place them in their Fed Ex boxes that will be located on a table in The Gathering Place foyer on Sunday March 20th and March 27th. We will mail the boxes on March 28th. 

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There will be a Mentor and Mentee event on Sunday, April 24th from 4-6pm at the North Newton pickleball court. Faith Formation will lead some Bible minute to win it games, there will be yard games and snacks available, and hopefully some fun pickleball games for all to enjoy. Reach out to your mentor or mentee and come and spend some quality time together! 

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The Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale Needs You!
In order for the Mennonite Central Committee Kansas Relief Sale to be a success it needs a lot of volunteers!  A Volunteer Video has been made (with our very own Jim Robb!) to help get the word out.  Click on this link to view the video.  https://youtu.be/oPwcQfi1tSI
To volunteer for the sale you can go to the Kansas Relief Sale website.  For the website press here

CALLING ALL BAKERS:  There will be  sign-up sheets at the back of the sanctuary each Sunday through April 3 for persons willing to take the time and energy to help alleviate physical suffering around the world by baking pies, Zwieback, etc., for the Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale.  Don’t pass up this chance to exercise your culinary skills in the service of Christ and his kin-dom.

MY COINS COUNT:  In addition to the collection jars in the Sunday School rooms, you will note that jars have been placed in the back of the sanctuary by the offering plates.  We don’t want to deny those of you who aren’t attending a Sunday School class the opportunity to lighten both the weight of your pockets and your feelings of guilt for not contributing regularly to the Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale.

Bohne berrogie bake day for the MCC sale will be on April 2 at Moundridge High.  Volunteers are needed to fill the berrogie.  Shifts are at 6:45 and 9:00.  Please wear a head covering.  If you would like to volunteer, please contact Marla Gillmore at 620-921-0428 or at bmg@lrmutual.com.  Let’s make this happen for MCC. 

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BETHEL COLLEGE ANNOUNCEMENTS

Sun., March 27 – Last chance to see the Bethel College spring musical, Bright Star, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Tickets at the door, subject to availability.
Now in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College, Susan and David Harmon, “Painterly Aesthetics: An Expressive Duet,” through April 7. Gallery hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Mon.-Fri.

Sat., April 2 – 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).

Sun., April 3 – Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum program, John M. Janzen, “Drums or Organ: Contesting Musical Styles in African Christianity,” 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum auditorium. This program is associated with the current special exhibit marking 125 years of Kauffman Museum, and Janzen will be talking about items included in the exhibit.

Sun., April 3 – Senior recital by Bethel College student Emma Beachy, piano, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel.

Tues., April 5 – Bethel College jazz featuring guest artist Aaron Linscheid, trumpet, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center.

Sun., April 10 – Bethel College Women’s Chorus concert, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel (may be different from some previously printed calendars)
Save the date: Mon., April 11, performance of Karen Robu’s doctoral project, Suffering Church, an original play, at Bethel College.

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HESSTON COLLEGE ANNOUNCEMENT
Sunflower Performing Arts presents: Kevin Vaughn, organ, and Stephen Lancaster, baritone – March 27, 3 p.m., Hesston Mennonite Church
In collaboration with the Andover Organ Series, enjoy a splendid musical performance that will include Five Mystical Songs by Ralph Vaughan Williams joined by Bel Canto Singers. Info at sunflowerarts.org.

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

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MENNONITE CENTRAL COMMITTEE ANNOUNCEMENTS

Spring 2022 Issue of Intersections:  MCC Theory and Practice Quarterly
This issue of Intersections: MCC Theory and Practice Quarterly is available now on-line here and here. Compiled by Annalee Giesbrecht, the issue is centered on the theme, “Advocating for People on the Move.” MCC staff and partner representatives from Cambodia, Canada, Colombia, El Salvador, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Jordan, Mexico, and the United States reflect on different ways that MCC supports vulnerable communities in exercising their “right to stay” and their “right to go.”As always, we welcome any feedback you have about this or other issues of Intersections! We have a new email address where your thoughts, affirmations, critiques, and counsel can be sent: intersections@mcc.org. Thanks for being a loyal reader of Intersections!   Warm regards,  Alain Epp Weaver

Mennonite Central Committee in North Newton will be hosting a two-part Beginner’s Quilt Piecing Class on Friday, May 6^th and May 13^th, from 1-4 pm taught by Ann Yoder Smith and Charlotte Wenger. This class is for anyone 18+ years old who has an interest in learning and/or improving basic cutting and piecing skills. Must have a sewing machine to bring and know how to thread and wind bobbins. The class will cover rotary cutting, ironing techniques, squaring up fabric, seam matching, layout choices, and more! Pre-registration is required with a limit of 8 students. Cost is $20 per person. If interested, please contact Ann Yoder Smith at rws.ays@gmail.com, or call 919-604-3282.

Join the MCC Thrifty 50 Challenge! 50 years ago the first MCC thrift shop opened and now there are 85 shops that provide millions of dollars each year for MCC’s work at home and around the world.To celebrate, we’re inviting you to sign up for the Thrifty 50 Challenge to get one practical challenge sent to your inbox and have a chance to win a $25 MCC Thrift gift card every week. Visit thrift.mcc.org to find a shop near you and learn more about MCC Thrift!

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For Mennonite Mission Network News from Around the World press hereFor Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press hereFor Mennonite World Conference Info press here
For Mennonite Church USA Special Session of the Delegate Assembly press here (this is a webinar)

From Mennonite Disaster Service As winter projects soon come to a close, continue the good work of getting disaster survivors back home by serving at an MDS spring and summer project! For any questions or further information, call 800-241-8111 or email volunteer@mds.org.

Weekly Volunteer OpportunitiesOkanogan, WA – 2020 Fires Apr 10-16; up to 6 people Apr 17-23; up to 5 people Apr 24-30; up to 5 people Paradise, CA – 2018 Camp Fire Apr 3-9; up to 3 people *construction experience required Apr 10-16; up to 6 people Apr 17-23; up to 6 people May 1-7; up to 9 people May 8-14; up to 12 people May 22-28; up to 12 people May 29-Jun 4; up to 9 people Jun 5-11; up to 12 people Jennings, LA – 2020 Hurricanes May 8-14; up to 14 people For more information or to serve call 800-241-8111 or email dfrey@mds.orgView Weekly Volunteer Opportunities

Leadership Volunteer Opportunities Okanogan, WA – 2020 Fires Head Cook, Apr 23-30 Paradise, CA – 2018 Camp Fire Crew Leader, Apr 2-30 Two Crew Leaders, Apr 30-May 21 Three Crew Leaders, May 21-June 4 Head Cook, May 21-Jun 4 Assistant Cook, May 21-Jul 2 Construction Supervisor, May 25-Jun 25 Crew Leader, May 21-25 Two Crew Leaders, Jun 4-Jul 2 Three Crew Leaders, Jul 2-30 McAllen, Texas – 2018 Flooding Head Cook, May 7-21 Jennings, LA – 2020 Hurricanes Crew Leader, May 28-Jun 25 Crew Leader, Jun 25-Jul 30 Assistant Cook, Jun 25-Jul 30 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 View Leadership Volunteer Opportunities

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MENNONITE CHURCH USA ANNOUNCEMENTS
The Women in Leadership ministry of Mennonite Church USA hosts “Holding It(,) Together,” a popular podcast that is created by women for women. Listen on your favorite podcast platform or here: mennoniteusa.org/holding-it-together

Are you looking for a way to provide a faithful testimony to the world regarding Jesus’ way of nonviolence and peace? This tax season, learn more about Mennonite Church USA’s Church Peace Tax Fund here: mennoniteusa.org/news/peace-tax-fund/

Menno Snapshots
Eleanor Kreider, keynote speaker at this year’s Pastors & Leaders | Deep Faith 2022 conference, shares about the rapid growth of the early church and the importance and benefits of engaging with first century Christians through their written documents, in her blog, “Patient Ferment.” Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/patient-ferment

Menno Snapshots
Michael Crosby, one of the authors of the proposed Repentance and Transformation Resolution, notes that the body of Christ is hurting due the church’s harmful actions toward LGBTQIA people. In his blog, “Prophetic challenge is pastoral care,” he encourages us not to look away too quicky. Read more: mennoniteusa.org/prophetic-challenge-pastoral-care

Menno Snapshots
In her blog, “Well-being blessings from the routine and the familiar,” Ingrid Friesen Moser, wellness coordinator for The Corinthian Plan, asks, “In this continued time of collective struggle, what are the routines that you find yourself doing that sustain you?” The Corinthian Plan is the health plan for Mennonite Church USA pastors and church workers. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/routine-and-familiarMennonite Mission Network Prayer Request:  Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Monika Neufeld, a nurse who is serving as an intern with CASAS (a program of Seminario Anabautista Latinoamericano, SEMILLA) in Guatemala. Pray for her as she works with other medical staff at a rural clinic to respond to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Western District Conference Prayer Request:  Please pray for Summit Street Church, our church replant in Beatrice, NE, as we continue to navigate what it means for us to follow Jesus’ call to become something new. In particular, please pray for our new members/baptism class that will be starting soon. -Pastor Tim Amor

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Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request:  Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Monika Neufeld, a nurse who is serving as an intern with CASAS (a program of Seminario Anabautista Latinoamericano, SEMILLA) in Guatemala. Pray for her as she works with other medical staff at a rural clinic to respond to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Western District Conference Prayer Request:  Please pray for Summit Street Church, our church replant in Beatrice, NE, as we continue to navigate what it means for us to follow Jesus’ call to become something new. In particular, please pray for our new members/baptism class that will be starting soon. -Pastor Tim Amor