Dedication of the Kitchen and Fellowship Hall
Sunday morning we dedicate BCMC’s newly renovated Kitchen, Fellowship Hall, and accessible family restroom.  Many thanks to Annette Lamp, project coordinator, and Monica Lichti, staff liaison, who poured many hours and much energy into seeing this project to completion!  Following worship today, you are welcome to tour the renovated space and enjoy refreshments on the playground.  Thank you to the Hospitality Commission for the refreshments.

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Church Office and Building Closed and Staff Absences
· The church office and building will be closed on July 5 in order for the staff  to have a holiday (since July 4 is on a Sunday.)
· Monica Lichti will not be in the office July 2 or 6. 
· Pastor Nathan Koontz will be gone from July 5 to 10.
· Pastor Renee Reimer will be attending the MC USA Convention from July 6-10. 

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Group Subscription Renewal Notices
Anabaptist World — If you wish to renew “Anabaptist World” with the church’s group subscription, send or bring $39.00 to the church office by June 29.  
Rejoice Devotional Magazine — If you wish to renew the devotional magazine, “Rejoice” send or bring $32.10 to the church office by June 29.

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Any graduates out there?! This year BCMC celebrated 5 high school graduates, but we know there are others in our community who have graduated this year too. We’d love to hear from you! Whether you graduated from high school, college, or graduate level please let us know your accomplishment. Email Renee Reimer with name, accomplishment, and school/program name at renee@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org

Summer Sunday School for Children
Outdoor Summer Sunday School for Children and Youth will take place July 4, 11, 18, and 25 on the BCMC playground. All ages are welcome as we will be playing outdoor team building games together. 

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Vacation Bible School
Bethel College Mennonite Church, Casa Betania, Faith Mennonite Church, First Mennonite Church, New Creation Fellowship, and Shalom Mennonite Church are hosting Vacation Bible School – Bring the Peace – this week (June 28th to July 2nd). Please pray for all the volunteers and participants participating virtually Monday to Thursday and during their in person field day on Friday, July 2nd. 

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BCMC Offering for June 20, 2021:  General Fund $9,355; Plant Fund $200; Library Reserve Fund $28; Living Stones $85; Esther Rinner Memorial $20. 

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New Addresses for your BCMC Directory

• Richard and Frances Siemens, 3056 Ivy Court, Apt. 16, North Newton, KS  67117
• Tim and Bethany Schrag, 313 SE 5th Street, Newton, KS 67114

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The WDC Annual Assembly Delegate Session on July 31 at 8:30-10:30 will be virtual only.  BCMC is looking for 15 people to serve as delegates. If you have interest in representing our congregation, please contact Dale Schrag. Registration fees will be covered by BCMC. For more Assembly info, go to:  https://mennowdc.org/2021-wdc-annual-assembly/.

Sat., July 3 – Kauffman Museum First-Saturday Bird Walk. Meet at 7 a.m. in the museum parking lot, corner of Main and 27th streets, North Newton – experienced birders will lead a walk of 1 to 1.5 hours. Please be aware this is mostly on an unpaved trail and the terrain is sometimes sloping or steep. 

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Fireworks Extravaganza at Kidron Bethel Village
Kidron Bethel Village will host its annual Fireworks Extravaganza on Sunday, July 4, at 3001 Ivy Drive in North Newton. There is no admission charge. Fireworks will begin after sundown, and arrival may begin at 8:30 p.m. Due to COVID precautions, the event will be scaled down from previous years and will be outdoors only, featuring just the fireworks show. Salted Creamery ice cream will be available for purchase. Organizers request physical distancing to be observed and for unvaccinated individuals to wear masks. Parking for the event will be marked. Lawn chairs are recommended for fireworks viewing, and flashlights may be helpful for navigating to and from parking areas.

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WDC announcements

1.  Have you noticed WDC’s website has a new look?  Check it out at https://mennowdc.org.   While it is still a work in progress, the refreshed website is now THE place to go for all things WDC!  Beginning in July, the WDC Sprouts weekly newsletter email will be discontinued.  WDC articles, announcements, and other information will be posted exclusively on the website.  Email alerts will be sent to let you know when new content has been posted.  

2.  The WDC Annual Assembly will be held July 30-Aug 1, both virtually and at Faith Mennonite Church, 2100 North Anderson in Newton KS.  Saturday, July 31 food options for persons attending onsite:  Lunch:  pre-order a box lunch (by July 20, please) when you fill out your Assembly registration form, or you are welcome to bring your own lunch.  Supper:  food trucks will offer a variety of options to purchase, or you are welcome to bring your own supper.  For more Assembly info and to register, go to:  https://mennowdc.org/2021-wdc-annual-assembly/ 

3.  The WDC Annual Assembly Delegate Session on July 31 at 8:30-10:30 will be virtual only.  To participate in discussions and decision-making, each delegate must have their own device – computer, smartphone or tablet.  If you don’t have one, call your church, there’s probably someone who’d be willing to share theirs for two hours.  For more Assembly info and to register, go to:  https://mennowdc.org/2021-wdc-annual-assembly/. 

4.  Join in this special Annual Assembly storytelling opportunity!  WDC’s Assembly theme July 30-August 1 is “Woven into God’s Story.” StoryCorps has invited WDC to partner with their storytelling project, One Small Step, to share and record our own stories within WDC. One Small Step is an initiative to facilitate conversations across differences. (Facilitators are bilingual in Spanish and English.)  It’s a chance to spend time virtually with someone different than you and discover the stories behind each other’s beliefs. To join another WDC member for an online conversation, sign up at https://onesmallstep.storycorps.org/wdc/. The registration deadline is June 25 and virtual recordings will be scheduled July 28-30. For more information about One Small Step see attached flyer.

5.  A/V Volunteers Needed: A hybrid Annual Assembly has lots of opportunity for you to operate sound and video equipment for an hour or more, as your schedule allows. The onsite coordinator will support your efforts. If you are interested in volunteering, please email our Assembly Coordinator, Kathy Neufeld Dunn, at kathynd@mennowdc.org with your interest? Thanks! Our Technology Coordinator will contact you with details. 

6.  Join others from across WDC to discuss “Why Do We Suffer and Where is God When We Do?” by Valerie G. Rempel on Thursday, June 24 at 7:00pm via Zoom.  Register for the online discussion or to borrow a copy at crlib@mennowdc.org 

7.  The WDC Immigration Task Force invites you to join a Virtual Borderlands Learning Tour, June 28 – July 2 from 2-5 p.m. CDT each day via Zoom. Engage with the reality of immigration from a different perspective. Through virtual conversations, participants will hear first-hand from folks on the ground about the complexities of the U.S. immigration system, U.S. immigration policies that have worked to dismantle the asylum-seeking process, and the human factor on various sides of the spectrum. For more information and to register: mcc.org/gl-virtual-borderlands.

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Camp Mennoscah announcements
1.  Family Weekend at Camp Mennoscah on July 17-18!  If you’re looking for a weekend to escape, this retreat offers a smorgasbord of camp activities for you to choose from and plenty of time to be with your family and friends.  Register at campmennoscah.org and contact 620-297-3290 with questions!

2.  Extra help needed for summer youth camps!  Camp Mennoscah has paid and volunteer positions for grounds, maintenance and custodial positions.  For college age folks, there is a weekly stipend position for a lifeguard, grounds, or custodial position.  Contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for details.  You will make camp an amazing experience for everyone!

3.  August 28 is the next Work Day at Camp Mennoscah!  We’ll remind you again, but save the date. You make camp great!

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Mennonite church announcements
1.  Want to be an integral part of a young adult’s life? Become a unit leader for Service Adventure, a gap-year program for ages 17-20 from Mennonite Mission Network. Unit leaders, who are at least 24 years of age, serve as mentors to the young adults in the Service Adventure household. Leaders are needed in Johnstown, PA. Learn more by contacting SusanN@MennoniteMission.net.

2.  Iglesia Buenas Nuevas, a Mennonite Church USA congregation in San Juan, Texas, has a long-standing history of being a welcoming, multicultural community, with Black, Latino and white congregants. Learn more about this dynamic church here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/profile-iglesia-buenas-nuevas En español: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/menoticias/iglesia-buenas-nuevas

3.  Sarah Augustine, author of “The Land is Not Empty: Following Jesus in Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery,” discussed her new book in a webinar presented by Mennonite Church USA and MennoMedia. Watch the webinar recording here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/webinars/

4.  What does peace have to do with Jesus? Or, maybe, what does Jesus have to do with peace? Dr. Meghan Larissa Good explores these questions in her blog, “Jesus and the Work of Peace,” and will speak on this during the July 7 worship service at MennoCon21. https://www.mennoniteusa.org/jesus-work-of-peace

5.  When Maribel Ramírez Hinojosa’s parents took her, as an infant, to be baptized, they found out that the priest would not baptize Maribel unless her parents changed her name to María. Read the story of how she and her family have dealt with the repercussions of this priest’s abuse of power here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/the-story-behind-my-name/

6.  Spiritual Director Jane Roeschley began this year by starting a journey with a spiritual practice called “word of the year.” In her blog, “Give Me a Word,” Roeschley opens up about this journey and how she moved from being skeptical to embracing and recommending the practice. Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/give-me-a-word/

Prayers for Mennonite Education – July 2021
This is a monthly prayer resource prepared by Mennonite Education Agency (MEA), the education agency of Mennonite Church USA. These prayer requests were gathered from across Mennonite education, from early childhood – grade 12 schools, undergraduate schools, graduate schools and seminaries, and MEA’s Hispanic Ministries’ Seminary and Bible Institute (SeBAH and IBA). By partnering with these schools and helping them flourish, MEA works to strengthen the church through education. Thank you for supporting the Anabaptist-Mennonite schools through prayer.

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The July 2021 Mennonite Mission Network PRAYER VINE is now available for download. The PDF is posted in theprayer resources section of our website and can also be downloaded directly by clicking the link below:
Download this month’s Prayer Vine (PDF)

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Mennonite Creation Care Network E-Newsletter link
https://mailchi.mp/1fc8c4964f23/menno-creation-care-e-news-june-wider-world-edition?e=e981fb2fe8

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Pastor Dawn will be on vacation June 7-20.  If you have a pastoral concern during that time, please be in touch with Pastor Nathan (June 7-20). 

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Any graduates out there?! This year BCMC celebrated 5 high school graduates, but we know there are others in our community who have graduated this year too. We’d love to hear from you! Whether you graduated from high school, college, or graduate level please let us know your accomplishment. Email Renee Reimer at renee@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org with name, accomplishment, and school/program name. Click here for a current list. 

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June 6 offering at BCMC:  General Fund $6,560; Transfer-General $83.65; Camp Mennoscah $30; Caring Fund $525; Living Stones $540; Transfer-Funeral $350; Helen Ruth Unruh Memorial $50; Phil Koontz Memorial $325.  
June 13 offering at BCMC:  General Fund:  $1,927; Sr Hi Youth $600; Living Stones $13.33 

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Group Subscription Renewal NoticesAnabaptist World — If you wish to renew “Anabaptist World” with the church’s group subscription, send or bring $39.00 to the church office by June 25.  Rejoice Devotional Magazine — If you wish to renew the devotional magazine, “Rejoice” send or bring $32.10 to the church office by June 25.

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Vacation Bible School
Bethel College Mennonite Church is teaming up with Casa Betania, Faith Mennonite Church, First Mennonite Church, New Creation Fellowship, and Shalom Mennonite Church to offer Vacation Bible School the week of June 28- July 2, 2021. At home VBS bags (filled with lessons, crafts, and activities) will be delivered to homes before the week of June 28, pre-recorded dramas and music with familiar faces will be available, and an in-person field day will take place on Friday, July 2nd from 9-11am. Sign-up here if your child ages 3-5th grade would like to participate.

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Summer Sunday School for Children
Outdoor Summer Sunday School for Children and Youth will take place July 4, 11, 18, and 25 on the BCMC playground. All ages are welcome as we will be playing outdoor team building games together. 

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Dedication of the Kitchen and Fellowship Hall
The kitchen and Fellowship Hall renovation project is completed!  In worship on Sunday, June 27, we will have a dedication for the new space and say thank you to those who helped bring this project to completion. Following worship, you will have a chance to wander through the basement and see the finished space, including a new accessible family restroom!  After your walk- through, enjoy refreshments out on the playground, compliments of the Hospitality Commission.

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2021 Kansas MCC Sale is July 2 and 3! Please take a moment to visit the KMRS table in the sanctuary at any time during the coming weeks.  A sign up for pies, zwieback and other baked goods will be available with bags and tins provided.  Anything is welcome!  Run for Relief forms can be found at the table, or by visiting the KMRS website at kansas.mccsale.org. Volunteers for working are needed and are being asked to sign up at the website kansas.mccsale.org.  Click on the volunteer link. Contact people are Dale and Margo Schrag, 316-283-6031 and Dennis and Kathy Campbell, 316-416-5156.Urgent Need for the Kansas Mennonite Central Committee Relief SaleVolunteers needed to make this year’s Relief Sale possible. Please visit our sale website and plan to help a shift or two. Also, help is needed to make Verenika on Wednesday, June 30 in Hillsboro for the Feeding the Multitude meal: https://kansas.mccsale.org/volunteer/. Craft Booth Announcement– Kansas Mennonite Central Committee Relief Sale Attached is a bulletin/mailbox insert from the MCC Sale Kansas Craft booth about items needed for the sale.  Click here for the insert.   New Hope Shelter Announcement For anyone considering becoming an evening volunteer at New Hope Shelter, this is a summary of the duties of evening volunteers:After arriving at 5:00, meet the New Hope staff evening coordinator and review the board that has photos of residents.Help prepare the serving area for the evening meal at 6:00, and help serve the meal.  Take care of any leftovers and wash the dishes in the dishwasher, clean up the kitchen area.Help residents prepare sack lunches for the following day.There will be time to interact with the residents, and this is encouraged.Anyone wanting to serve is asked to take a brief orientation.  Contact Valetta Seymour with questions:  620-217-7536, seymour2314@gmail.com

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Bethel College Announcement
A team from Bethel College will participate this week (June 22-25) in the 2021 Institute for Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation (TRHT) Campus Centers. The American Association of Colleges & Universities sponsors the training institute, conducted virtually this year, which has as its goal to dismantle belief in a racial hierarchy based on skin color, physical characteristics and/or country of origin, as a way to eliminate racism. Bethel is one of 78 institutions (the only one from Kansas) that will be participating in the training in order to explore forming TRHT centers on their own campuses. Bethel’s team is Christine Crouse-Dick, Peter Goerzen, Robert Milliman, Sheryl Wilson and Kirsten Zerger.

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Mennonite Central Committee Announcements
Virtual Borderlands Learning Tour, June 28 – July 2 from 2-5 p.m. CDT each day via Zoom Engage with the reality of immigration from a different perspective. Through virtual conversations, participants will hear first-hand from folks on the ground about the complexities of the U.S. immigration system, U.S. immigration policies that have worked to dismantle the asylum-seeking process, and the human factor on various sides of the spectrum. For more information and to register: mcc.org/gl-virtual-borderlands.

June 22 at 7 p.m. CDT join James Wheeler & Linda Herr, Area Directors for Europe & Middle East, to hear The Gift of Love: Doing our part for healing and wholeness in the world. Register for the webinar at mcc.org/mcc-webinar-series.

The MCC Alumni Gathering is July 9-11 and all MCC alumni and their families are invited to join us at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp. Please sign up by June 25!

Current openings at MCC can be found at mcc.org. Current open positions include Canning & Trucking Manager, Multimedia Producer, Meat Canner and many international service opportunities.

Bring dark colored hand towels for hygiene kits, or money for relief kits to the MCC booth at the Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale (July 2 & 3 in Hutchinson), to help replenish our supplies. Both of these kits have been used for COVID-19 relief efforts around the world and MCC needs more to fulfill requests from partners! You’ll find us in Sunflower North, where the General Auction takes place. See you at the sale!

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Western District Conference Announcements 

1. WDC Annual Assembly, July 30-Aug 1 is by donation this year!  We’ll tell you what the cost of this hybrid event is, and you give as you can.  If you plan to be on-site, you’re welcome to order a box lunch on Saturday or bring your own.  Food trucks will offer a variety of supper options on Saturday to purchase for on-site participants.  For more Assembly info, go to:  https://mennowdc.org/2021-wdc-annual-assembly/ 

2.  Special Annual Assembly Storytelling Opportunity!  WDC’s Assembly theme July 30-August 1 is “Woven into God’s Story.” StoryCorps has invited WDC to partner with their storytelling project, One Small Step, to share and record our own stories within WDC. One Small Step is an initiative to facilitate conversations across differences, between people who may disagree politically. (Facilitators are bilingual in Spanish and English.)  It’s not a debate. It’s a chance to spend time virtually with someone different than you and discover the stories behind each other’s beliefs. To join another WDC member for an online conversation, sign up at https://onesmallstep.storycorps.org/wdc/. The registration deadline is June 25 and virtual recordings will be scheduled July 28-30 (space is limited). For more information about One Small Step see attached flyer.

3.  Staff position opening:  WDC seeks a full time Administrative Assistant to work out of its North Newton, KS office, beginning August 25.  Responsibilities include office management, communications, records management, scheduling, and administrative support for staff.  Qualifications include strong organizational, computer and communication skills, ability to collaborate as part of a team, and willingness to promote WDC’s mission and priorities.  For more information, position description and application materials, contact Heidi Regier Kreider, Conference Minister, at heidirk@mennowdc.org or 316-283-6300.

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Camp Mennoscah announcements

1.  Family Weekend at Camp Mennoscah on July 17-18!  If you are looking for a weekend to escape, Family Weekend offers a smorgasbord of camp activities for you to choose from and plenty of time to roam the river and be with your family and friends.  Register at campmennoscah.org and contact 620-297-3290 with questions!

2.  Extra help and hands needed for summer youth camps!  Camp Mennoscah has paid and volunteer positions for grounds, maintenance and custodial positions.  For those of college age, there is a weekly stipend position that could be a lifeguard, grounds, or custodial position.  Contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for details.  You will make camp an amazing experience for everyone!

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Mennonite church announcements
1.  Interested in short-term service opportunities? Ask us about SOOP! We’d love to speak with your congregation about the awesome service opportunities that we can provide through SOOP. Contact LaurenEH@MennoniteMission.net for more information.

2.  Iris de León-Hartshorn, associate executive director of Mennonite Church USA, offers a response to the hatred and brutality that continues against the Asian American and Pacific Islander population in the United States. Read her call to action here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/respond-to-hatred

3.  In “Reclaiming my Indonesian Heritage,” Syerafina Himawan, an Indonesian-American teenager, shares some of her experiences dealing with racism in high school. Himawan explores how her friends’ racist actions caused her to abandon her heritage, only to later have her love of her Indonesian culture reinvigorated. https://www.mennoniteusa.org/reclaiming-indonesian-heritage

4.  Have you heard that MennoCon21, Mennonite Church USA’s biennium convention, will be offering a Bible study each morning, led by Safwat Marzouk? Marzouk reflects on the themes that will be covered each morning, in his blog, “Peace and Justice Amid the Pandemics of COVID-19 and Racism.” https://www.mennoniteusa.org/peace-justice-amid-covid-racism

5.  Make the most of your Voices Together experience by exploring the depths of the Voices Together website. Read Katie Graber’s blog, “Best-kept Secrets of the Voices Together Website,” to ensure you don’t miss anything! https://www.mennoniteusa.org/secrets-voices-together-website

6.  Want to know more about the exciting things happening across our denomination? Subscribe to PeaceMail, Mennonite Church USA’s weekly news digest: mennoniteusa.org/peacemail

7.  Mennonite Heritage and Ag Museum in Goessel is having the 2021 Antique, Classic Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show at 200 N. Poplar in Goessel, KS on June 19 from 10 am – 3 pm.  Free admission to the museum all day, Museum “Garage” sale, Hot dog meal deal starts at 11 am, Free ice cream bars 1-2pm sponsored by Goessel Recreation Commission. $ 10 Exhibitor’s entry fee. 620-367-8200. Come “Fill Your Tank With Memories”.

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KIPCOR’s Spring 2021 Newsletter
Read about our recent Peace Lecture featuring Leonard Pitts Jr., our new academic minor and the students who have completed it, our foray into online (via Zoom) training, our new staff member, and MORE!!
You can read the newsletter on online with pages that flip here: 
https://www.flipsnack.com/KIPCOR/kipcor-spring-2021-newsletter.html
(just click on the “+” sign at the bottom of the screen to expand the newsletter, and then ‘grab and drag’ the open page to se the article you’re interested in.)
or on KIPCOR’s website as a PDF here:
https://kipcor.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Newsletter-Spring-2021-Individual-pages.pdf

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Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request:   On this Father’s Day, pray with Mennonite Mission Network that God, who makes all the people of world into one family, will bless the fathers in our world with the resources to help provide for their children, so they will have the joy of seeing their children blossom physically, mentally, socially and spiritually.

Western District Conference Prayer Request:  Pray for health and strength for pastors in WDC, as they work with congregational leaders to provide leadership, care and direction for church communities.

Pastor Dawn will be on vacation June 7-20.  If you have a pastoral concern during that time, please be in touch with Pastors Nathan (June 7-20) or Renee (June 7-12).  

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Any graduates out there?! This year BCMC celebrated 5 high school graduates, but we know there are others in our community who have graduated this year too. We’d love to hear from you! Whether you graduated from high school, college, or graduate level please let us know your accomplishment. Email Renee Reimer at renee@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org with name, accomplishment, and school/program name. Click here for a current list. 

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CARD SHOWER for Elizabeth Raid who celebrates her birthday on June 19 and begins treatment for newly diagnosed cancer of the pancreas. 
Please join friends and family to shower Elizabeth with special greetings.  Send cards to 2121 N. Anderson Ave., Newton, KS  67114.

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Link to the Memorial for Esther Rinner
Here is the link to the June 10, 2021,  memorial service for Esther Rinner for those interested and unable to attend. 

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Link to Pastor Renee Reimer’s Ordination Service
Here’s the link to Pastor Renee Reimer’s outdoor ordination service from June 6th for those interested and were unable to attend.

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Address Changes for your BCMC Directory

• Marles Preheim new phone number:  620-869-5252
• Janet Stucky’s apartment number correction:  541 W. 78th Street, Apartment 410 (NOT 41), , Chanhassen, MN 55317
• Jeanette and George Leary’s new address:  2913 Wildwood Way, North Newton, KS, 67117
• Vern Preheim and Norma Johnson’s changes to their email addresses:  vpreheim1935@gmail.com and njjohnson1998@gmail.com

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Vacation Bible School
Bethel College Mennonite Church is teaming up with Casa Betania, Faith Mennonite Church, First Mennonite Church, New Creation Fellowship, and Shalom Mennonite Church to offer Vacation Bible School the week of June 28- July 2, 2021. At home VBS bags (filled with lessons, crafts, and activities) will be delivered to homes before the week of June 28, pre-recorded dramas and music with familiar faces will be available, and an in-person field day will take place on Friday, July 2nd from 9-11am. Sign-up here if your child ages 3-5th grade would like to participate.

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Summer Sunday School for Children
Outdoor Summer Sunday School for Children and Youth will take place July 4, 11, 18, and 25 on the BCMC playground. All ages are welcome as we will be playing outdoor team building games together. 

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BCMC Senior High Youth Group Trip to Alabama
12 youth and sponsors are heading to Alabama at 1:00pm on Sunday, June 13th. The group is starting the first leg of their journey at the Kansas African American Museum in Wichita. The following days will include 2 12 hour drives to Alabama, a day trip to Selma to learn more about voter right activists, a day trip to Montgomery to visit the Legacy Museum: From Enslavement to Mass Incarceration, and time spent in Birmingham. We are looking forward to our time together and learning more about past and current civil rights activists. Thank you in advance for your prayers and support in this important learning experience together! 

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Community Playschool Announcement
It’s been an interesting school year for Community Playschool as we have recently completed an online program in order to stay safe during the pandemic. We posted stories, circle times and activities every day for families to watch and do at their own convenience. Fourteen children of the Newton community have participated in this free program thanks to five area churches and United Way. We want to thank Bethel College Mennonite Church for being one of those supporting churches and are so grateful for your yearly pledge and matching Everence grant. BCMC Women’s Circle contributed a  generous donation this year. We also want to acknowledge the service of Clifferd Dick who is currently BCMC’s representative to our board and serves as the treasurer. We did not use our group of teachers, helpers and substitutes this year, however we want to thank Barb Voran and Stahli Claassen for their part in helping us prepare materials that were picked up by the families each month.
At this time, we are planning for an in person program to start up again in the fall. We solicit your prayers and continued support as we work toward a new model of leadership for the future of our organization. Current director, Jeanette Leary, will be taking a leave of absence for the fall semester. Current assistant director, Kasey Newell, will be acting director during this semester. In this time of change, we are also seeking new volunteer teachers and helpers for our classrooms. If you feel that you have an interest and are willing to commit to two mornings a week or would like more information about what we might need, please contact one of the directors at the number below.
With gratitude,
Jeanette Leary and Kasey Newell
316 283-3667

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Dedication of the Kitchen and Fellowship Hall
The kitchen and Fellowship Hall renovation project is completed!  In worship on Sunday, June 27, we will have a dedication for the new space and say thank you to those who helped bring this project to completion. Following worship, you will have a chance to wander through the basement and see the finished space, including a new accessible family restroom!  After your walk- through, enjoy refreshments out on the playground, compliments of the Hospitality Commission.

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MCC Relief Sale – Verenike Carry Out Meal needs volunteers.  Go to https://kansas.mccsale.org/sign-up-for-ftm-verenike-meal/ and click on “Click Here To Volunteer!”.  Email mctoews1@gmail.com with questions.   

2021 Kansas MCC Sale is July 2 and 3! Please take a moment to visit the KMRS table in the sanctuary at any time during the coming weeks.  A sign up for pies, zwieback and other baked goods will be available with bags and tins provided.  Anything is welcome!  Run for Relief forms can be found at the table, or by visiting the KMRS website at kansas.mccsale.org. Volunteers for working are needed and are being asked to sign up at the website kansas.mccsale.org.  Click on the volunteer link. Contact people are Dale and Margo Schrag, 316-283-6031 and Dennis and Kathy Campbell, 316-416-5156. Let the Light Shine!Mennonite Central Committee Announcements June 22 at 7 p.m. CDT join James Wheeler & Linda Herr, Area Directors for Europe & Middle East, to hear The Gift of Love: Doing our part for healing and wholeness in the world. Register for the webinar at mcc.org/mcc-webinar-series.   The MCC Alumni Gathering is July 9-11 and all MCC alumni and their families are invited to join us at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp. Please sign up by June 25!   Current openings at MCC can be found at mcc.org. Current open positions include Canning & Trucking Manager, Multimedia Producer, Meat Canner and many international service opportunities.  New Hope Shelter Announcement For anyone considering becoming an evening volunteer at New Hope Shelter, this is a summary of the duties of evening volunteers:After arriving at 5:00, meet the New Hope staff evening coordinator and review the board that has photos of residents.Help prepare the serving area for the evening meal at 6:00, and help serve the meal.  Take care of any leftovers and wash the dishes in the dishwasher, clean up the kitchen area.Help residents prepare sack lunches for the following day.There will be time to interact with the residents, and this is encouraged.Anyone wanting to serve is asked to take a brief orientation.  Contact Valetta Seymour with questions:  620-217-7536, seymour2314@gmail.com

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Western District Conference announcements

1.  Michelle Hershberger, Bible Department Chair, Hesston College, will be our keynote speaker and storyteller for WDC Annual Assembly, July 30-August 1.  She is the author of God’s Story, Our Story.  Michelle never gets tired of telling how Jesus is at work in her life, church, and community!  For more hybrid Assembly info, go to https://mennowdc.org/2021-wdc-annual-assembly/.  You’re welcome to join us for worship or for the whole Assembly! 

2.  Special Annual Assembly Storytelling Opportunity!  WDC’s Assembly theme July 30-August 1 is “Woven into God’s Story.”  When was the last time you really listened to the story of someone who doesn’t see the world as you do? The folks at StoryCorps have invited WDC to partner with their storytelling project, One Small Step, to share and record our own stories within WDC. One Small Step is an initiative to facilitate conversations across differences, between people who may disagree politically. It’s not a debate. It’s a chance to spend time virtually with someone different than you and discover the stories behind each other’s beliefs. To join another WDC member for an online conversation, sign up at https://onesmallstep.storycorps.org/wdc/. The registration deadline is June 25 and virtual recordings will be scheduled July 28-30 (space is limited). For more information about One Small Step see the attached flyer. 

3.  Join others from across WDC to discuss “Why Do We Suffer and Where is God When We Do?” by Valerie G. Rempel on Thursday, June 24 at 7:00pm via Zoom.  Register for the online discussion or to borrow a copy at crlib@mennowdc.org

4.  Join us for a worship service sponsored by the Texas Mennonite Churches!   Everyone is welcome to come together in scripture, song and prayer at 6:00 pm this Saturday, June 12. Join us on zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86582197725 or on the Houston Mennonite Church facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/HoustonMennonite). There will be music from Casa Del Alfarero and Hope Fellowship, and a message from Associate Conference Minister Sandra Montes-Martinez. We look forward to seeing you there!

5.  Staff position opening:  WDC seeks a full time Administrative Assistant to work out of its North Newton, KS office, beginning August 25.  Responsibilities include office management, communications, records management, scheduling, and administrative support for staff.  Qualifications include strong organizational, computer and communication skills, ability to collaborate as part of a team, and willingness to promote WDC’s mission and priorities.  For more information, position description and application materials, contact Heidi Regier Kreider, Conference Minister, at heidirk@mennowdc.org or 316-283-6300.

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Camp Mennoscah announcements
1.  Camp Mennoscah needs kitchen staff and maintenance volunteers!  We are looking for kitchen staff for June 13-17 and maintenance volunteers for all weeks.  For the kitchen, no professional cooking skills needed–just an ability to follow directions and some happiness to share!  Contact olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.

 2.  Congratulations!  Deborah, Camp Mennoscah’s dedicated and generous office assistant of over 7 years, is retiring!  She has reduced her hours and has graciously agreed to stay on while the next assistant is found.  Camp Mennoscah is seeking someone to share in office/support operations and guest services in a position with potential growth.  Contact olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for information. 

3.  There’s still time to register for camp!  Camp Mennoscah has a few openings at most camps.  Register online at campmennoscah.org!

 4.  Guidelines for summer youth camps have changed and Camp Mennoscah is working to change within the guidance of state and local agencies.  If you have questions or concerns about how the camp masking and distancing guidelines may have changed, please contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org.

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Mennonite church announcements
1.  Mennonite Mission Network has openings for a Director of Finance and Director of Human  Resources, two new positions for the agency. You can find details on our website at www.MennoniteMission.net/employment . To begin the application process, send a resume to StaffRecruitment@MennoniteMission.net. 

2. Serve with the Immigrant Resource Center through MVS in Alamosa, Colorado! Serve others by connecting them with educational and legal resources. Visit MennoniteMission.net/MVS to learn more.    

3.  Mennonite Church USA has released a new Bible-based curriculum, entitled “Laboring Toward Wholeness: A Training on Dismantling Patriarchy.” It addresses the history and impact of systemic patriarchy — and looks at how God calls followers to respond through an intersectional lens. Learn more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/news/dismantling-patriarchy-curriculum/

4.  For the first time, Mennonite Church USA is hosting a hybrid convention on July 6-10, 2021. MennoCon21 participants may choose between attending in person in Cincinnati, Ohio, or virtually via Pheedloop, an interactive, online event platform. Learn more about MennoCon21 virtual offerings here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/mennocon21-virtual-opportunity/

5.  Jon Carlson will be the July 9 worship speaker for MennoCon21, Mennonite Church USA’s biennial convention. Carlson reflects on his conference topic, “Trust the Peace,” through his experience with trust in the Mennonite church, in this blog: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/trust-the-peace/

6. In his blog, “An Afro-Latina Who Refused to be Made Invisible,” Mennonite Church USA’s Chief Communications Officer Wil LaVeist reflects on his mother’s life and her Afro-Latina heritage. Despite the racism that she, and countless other Afro-Latino people have experienced, she persisted and proudly represented her culture. Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/refused-to-be-made-invisible

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The Rocky Mountain June 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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Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request:   Christy Harrison and Peter Sensenig, and their three children, are preparing to return to the African continent to build bridges between Christians and Muslims. Pray for them during their time of orientation at the Paris Mennonite Center in France, where they will ground themselves in language study and in the ministries in French-speaking Africa. They are serving jointly through Eastern Mennonite Missions and Mennonite Mission Network.

Western District Conference Prayer Request:  Pray for God’s guidance and joy for the WDC Annual Assembly planning team, as they prepare for our hybrid (in-person and online) gathering July 30-Aug 1 with worship, delegate business, learning seminars and fellowship.

June 1 marks the beginning of the new program year at BCMC.  As we enter this new season, there will be a dedication in worship on June 6 for all who are investing their time energies, and skills on behalf of our congregation, including Commission, Committee, and Church Board members.  We hope you can be there to participate in-person!

Service of Ordination for Pastor Renee Reimer
Sunday, June 6th at 1:00 pm 
Over the past several months Pastor Renee has spent time discerning and preparing for her ordination. She met with a clearness committee of BCMC members and spent time reading and reflecting in preparation for her Ministerial Leadership Commission (MLC) interview on Friday, May 21st. The church board also voted to approve and support her into this call toward ordination. On Friday, the MLC offered their support of ordination following her interview. 
All are invited to an outdoor service of ordination on Sunday, June 6th beginning at 1:00 pm in the Peace Garden. Bring a blanket or a lawn chair. 

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Pastor Dawn will be on vacation June 7-20.  If you have a pastoral concern during that time, please be in touch with Pastors Nathan (June 7-20) or Renee (June 7-12).  

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Memorial Service for Esther Rinner
The memorial service for Esther Rinner will be on Thursday, June 10 at 11 am at BCMC.  All are welcome to attend the service in the sanctuary and a meal and time of fellowship afterwards at the Sand Creek Event Center, 1601 S. Anderson, Newton.  Due to COVID-19 precautions, windows will be open and masks required while we are gathered inside the church building.  If you are unable to attend in-person, the service will be live-streamed and recorded.  It can be accessed through the BCMC homepage on our website by clicking on the green live stream button. 

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Vacation Bible School
Bethel College Mennonite Church is teaming up with Casa Betania, Faith Mennonite Church, First Mennonite Church, New Creation Fellowship, and Shalom Mennonite Church to offer Vacation Bible School the week of June 28- July 2, 2021. At home VBS bags (filled with lessons, crafts, and activities) will be delivered to homes before the week of June 28, pre-recorded dramas and music with familiar faces will be available, and an in-person field day will take place on Friday, July 2nd from 9-11am. Sign-up here if your child ages 3-5th grade would like to participate.

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Summer Sunday School for Children
Outdoor Summer Sunday School for Children and Youth will take place July 4, 11, 18, and 25 on the BCMC playground. All ages are welcome as we will be playing outdoor team building games together. 

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Abuse Prevention and Response Policy survey
June 8th is the last day to complete the Abuse Prevention and Response Policy survey using this electronic form. Hard copies of the policy proposal and survey can be found in the Gathering Space. Hard copies of the survey can be returned to the collection box found in the Gathering Space. Thank you for taking the time to read through the policy proposal!

Press the link below for the attached proposal.

Abuse Prevention and Response Policy Proposal

BCMC Offering for May 30, 2021  General Fund $5,487.58; Transfer-General $100; Living Stones $5; Women’s Fellowship $50; Phil Koontz Memorial $2,145.

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2021 Kansas MCC Sale is July 2 and 3!
Please take a moment to visit the KMRS table in the sanctuary at any time during the coming weeks.  A sign up for pies, zwieback and other baked goods will be available with bags and tins provided.  Anything is welcome! 
Run for Relief forms can be found at the table, or by visiting the KMRS website at kansas.mccsale.org.
Volunteers for working are needed and are being asked to sign up at the website kansas.mccsale.org.  Click on the volunteer link.
Contact people are Dale and Margo Schrag, 316-283-6031 and Dennis and Kathy Campbell, 316-416-5156.
Let the Light Shine!

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New Hope Shelter Announcement
For anyone considering becoming an evening volunteer at New Hope Shelter, this is a summary of the duties of evening volunteers:

• After arriving at 5:00, meet the New Hope staff evening coordinator and review the board that has photos of residents.
• Help prepare the serving area for the evening meal at 6:00, and help serve the meal.  Take care of any leftovers and wash the dishes in the dishwasher, clean up the kitchen area.
• Help residents prepare sack lunches for the following day.
• There will be time to interact with the residents, and this is encouraged.

Anyone wanting to serve is asked to take a brief orientation.  Contact Valetta Seymour with questions:  620-217-7536, seymour2314@gmail.com

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Western District Conference announcements

1.  Staff Announcement:  WDC Administrative Assistant Nancy Funk has announced her plans to retire August 31, 2021.  She writes, “I am so grateful for the opportunity that I’ve had to work at WDC for the last 17+ years. My decision to retire at this time comes with mixed feelings of excitement for what’s ahead and sadness for what will be left behind. I have enjoyed my work very much and felt valued in my role. Working with the various staff members over the years and learning to know many pastors and others has indeed been a blessing to me. I also look forward to a new chapter of life and the possibilities that it brings.”  We are grateful for Nancy’s faithful service to WDC, and will be making plans to recognize Nancy and prepare for this transition on the WDC staff.  More information will be announced later.

2.  Information about the WDC Annual Assembly (July 30-Aug 1) will be emailed to churches and pastors this week.  

3.  BIG NEWS from the Western District Women in Mission! The Women’s Retreat at Camp Mennoscah will happen in-person this September! Details are being discussed but please circle the dates of Saturday, September 11 and Sunday, September 12 and consider joining our fellowship and reconnecting. Of course, some things will look different including no programming for girls, only meeting on Saturday and Sunday, building use being limited, bodies being one year older, etc. We’ll send out more details and registration information later this summer; hope to see you there!

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Mennonite church announcements

1.  Join Jerusalem Seminar this winter! Bethel College and Tabor College are again sponsoring a trip to Jordan, Palestine, and Israel, from December 26, 2021, to January 15, 2022. The four emphases of the trip are to (1) understand the Bible in its context, (2) learn about the three major religions of the area (Judaism, Islam, Eastern Christianity), (3) understand the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, and (4) take time for reflection, worship, and prayer together. There is currently room for additional persons to participate. If interested, contact Peter Goerzen (pgoerzen@bethelks.edu) immediately. Cost is estimated at $4700-$4900 per person.

2.  Mennonite Church USA has announced the list of in-person and online equipping seminars for youth and adults for this year’s hybrid MennoCon21 convention, to be held July 6-10 in Cincinnati, Ohio, and online. Learn more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/seminars-mennocon21

3.  Glen Guyton, the executive director of Mennonite Church USA, has partnered with Dove’s Nest to help churches keep children and youth safe. For tips, resources and to learn more about Guyton’s work with Dove’s Nest, read this news release: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/keep-boys-safe

4.  Mennonite Church USA responded to a proposed resolution from South Central Mennonite Conference (SCMC), calling for the dissolution of the conference. SCMC delegates will vote on the resolution at their assembly in July. “Our prayers are with the communities and people of SCMC,” said Glen Guyton, executive director of MC USA. Learn more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/responds-scmc-proposal

5.  When life gets hard, it is difficult to find the peace. In her blog, “Feel the Peace,” Ana Alicia Hinojosa, who will be the July 6 worship speaker at MennoCon21, reflects on her conference topic by grappling with where the peace goes when everything feels like it is falling apart. https://www.mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/feel-the-peace/

6.  Retired Mennonite Church USA Executive Board staff member Carol Epp passed away April 24. Menno Snapshots re-shared the blog “Remembering Carol Epp: A Reflection on Her Service” as a tribute to her many years of service. Read it here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/remembering-carol-epp/

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Prayer Request for Mennonite Mission Network
Praise God with Mennonite Mission Network for the dedication of Service Adventure leaders who are transitioning into other ministries this month. Pray for Cindy Headings (four years), Michelle and Rudy Moyer-Litwiller (three years), and the Eric and Julie Yoder family (three years).

Prayer Request for Western District Conference
Pray for WDC children, youth and their leaders participating in vacation Bible School, and at Camp Mennoscah and other camps this summer.

The Church library will be open and staffed on Sunday mornings following worship beginning this Sunday, May 30

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The Church Office and Building will be closed Monday, May 31 for the Memorial Day Holiday.

New addresses for BCMC members:
Metta Lieb, 1722 Paddington Circle, Newton, KS 67114
Howard Lohrentz, Schowalter Villa, Mullet West, Room 1136, Hesston KS, 67062
Janet Harder Stucky, 541 W. 78th St., Unit 41, Chanhassen, MN 55317
Myron and Mildred Voran, Presbyterian Manor, 1200 E. 7th Street, Anderson Place, Suite 218, Newton, KS, 67114

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Offering at BCMC for May 23, 2021:  General Fund $13,191; Caring Fund $500; Living Stones $85; Church Retreat $1,203; Mennonite Camp Scholarship $322; Women’s Fellowship $630.  

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Service of Ordination for Pastor Renee Reimer
Sunday, June 6th at 1:00pm 
Over the past several months Pastor Renee has spent time discerning and preparing for her ordination. She met with a clearness committee of BCMC members and spent time reading and reflecting in preparation for her Ministerial Leadership Commission (MLC) interview on Friday, May 21st. The church board also voted to approve and support her into this call toward ordination. On Friday, the MLC offered their support of ordination following her interview. 

All are invited to an outdoor service of ordination on Sunday, June 6th beginning at 1:00 pm in the Peace Garden. Bring a blanket or a lawn chair. 

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Quilts!
The Mennonites Central Committee Relief Sale deadline for quilts for the Relief Sale Auction is June 1.  If you have a quilt to donate, call Margo Schrag, BCMC Relief Sale Committee member, and she will pick up your quilt for the sale.

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Bethel College Mennonite Church is teaming up with Casa Betania, Faith Mennonite Church, First Mennonite Church, New Creation Fellowship, and Shalom Mennonite Church to offer Vacation Bible School the week of June 28- July 2, 2021. At home VBS bags (filled with lessons, crafts, and activities) will be delivered to homes before the week of June 28, pre-recorded dramas and music with familiar faces will be available, and an in-person field day will take place on Friday, July 2nd from 9-11am. Sign-up here if your child ages 3-5th grade would like to participate.

Outdoor Summer Sunday School for Children and Youth will take place July 4, 11, 18, and 25 on the BCMC playground. All ages are welcome as we will be playing outdoor team building games together. 

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Newton Et Cetera Shop thanks you for shopping, donating and volunteering at our community thrift shop! We’ve been able to send over $10,000 to Mennonite Central Committee so far this year, and have set aside over $1,000 for 2022 Local Giving Grants, as well as supporting our local nonprofit partners with gift cards for those in need. Thank you for making this possible! We also request your help letting folks know about three open positions at the shop: two full-time management positions and one part-time summer receiver position. More information is at newtonetceterashop.com and on Indeed.com. Newton Et Cetera shop is an equal opportunity employer, committed to employment equity. Newton Et Cetera Shop values diversity and invites all qualified candidates to apply. Thanks again from the Newton Et Cetera Shop board of directors and staff!

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Art Show at Carriage Factory Art Gallery by Glen Ediger
You are invited to visit an art show entitled “Environmental Exposure” at the Carriage Art Gallery from May 29-July 16 featuring artwork by Glen Ediger. Glen has created a unique new art medium.  Materials are placed on top of copper, steel or wood, which are then exposed to the environment for months to a year, then cleared off and mounted with framing made from reclaimed lumber, much of which, is salvaged oak shelving from our church remodeling projects. “Everything we do leaves an impression. Our actions, whether intended or not, create an effect on our environment and on our relationships.”

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Bethel College announcements:

The summer day camp program at Kauffman Museum, Uncle Carl’s Camps, starts June 1 and runs through July 16. All camps still have some spaces available. Most camps will be in-person with reduced enrollment, masks required while indoors, and many activities held outdoors where campers will not be required to wear masks. Camps are: “Trash and Treasure” (9-12/completed 3rd-6th), archaeology with Monty Graber; “Watercolor My World” 1 (6-8/completed K-2nd) and 2 (9-12/3rd-6th) with LaDonna Unruh Voth; “The Prairie is ALIVE!” (6-8/K-2nd) with Kendall Smith; “Little Houses on the Prairie” (ages 4-5, not yet in kindergarten) with Kristin Neufeld Epp; “Pedal Power” (9/3rd through adult), biking camp with Karen and Stephen Kreider Yoder. See https://kauffmanmuseum.org/uncle-carls-camp/ for dates, cost and online registration.

Sat., June 5 – The public is invited to Walk Sand Creek Trail Day, part of National Trails Day®. Water will be available for people and dogs at the trailhead at Memorial Grove on the Bethel College campus, dawn to dusk (6 a.m.-8 p.m.), courtesy of the Sand Creek Trail Committee.
Sat., June 5, 7 a.m. – Kauffman Museum first-Saturday bird walk. Meet in the museum parking lot (corner of Main and 27th streets in North Newton) to join experienced birders for a walk of 1-1.5 hours in Chisholm Park and on Sand Creek Trail. Trails are mostly unpaved and sometimes steep or sloping.

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Everence to hold Basics of investing webinar:
Everence will host a free, online webinar, Basics of investing, on Tuesday, June 8 at 6:30 p.m.  Register for this webinar to learn about:

• The fundamentals of investing.
• Different types of investments available.
• How faith values can play a role in your investment decisions. 

To register, or learn more about this webinar event, please visit our webpage at everence.com/kansas. 
Securities offered through ProEquities Inc., a registered broker-dealer, member FINRA and SIPC. Investments and other products are not NCUA or otherwise federally insured, may involve loss of principal and have no credit union guarantee. 
Products and services offered through Everence Trust Company and other Everence entities are independent of and are not guaranteed or endorsed by ProEquities, Inc., or its affiliates.

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WDC announcements

1.  The WDC Resource Library invites children ages 3-8 to join us for an outdoor Green Things Summer Story Hour.  On Thursdays starting June 3 at 10:00am, we will meet in front of the North Newton (KS) City Building at 2601 N. Main.  Register here or at mennowdc.org/library  If registration numbers are low, Story Hour will move to virtual format.  Please contact the library if you would be interested in a virtual Story Hour.  (Central Kansas-area churches please run this announcement and post the attached flier.) 

2.  Your Story, My Story:  “Woven into God’s Story” is our Annual Assembly theme and StoryCorps has invited WDC to partner with their storytelling project, One Small Step, to share and record our own stories within WDC. One Small Step is an initiative to facilitate conversations across differences.  Take time to listen to another WDC member and discover the stories behind each other’s beliefs.  Sign up at https://onesmallstep.storycorps.org/wdc/.  The deadline for registrations is June 25 and virtual recordings will be scheduled July 28-30 (space is limited). For more information about One Small Step see attached flyer.

3.  BIG NEWS from the Western District Women in Mission! The Women’s Retreat at Camp Mennoscah will happen in-person this September! Details are being discussed but please circle the dates of Saturday, September 11 and Sunday, September 12 and consider joining our fellowship and reconnecting. Of course, some things will look different including no programming for girls, only meeting on Saturday and Sunday, building use being limited, bodies being one year older, etc. We’ll send out more details and registration information later this summer; hope to see you there!

4.  The WDC office will be closed Friday, May 28 and Monday May 31.  

Camp Mennoscah announcements
1.  Kitchen staff needed!  Camp Mennoscah is still looking for kitchen staff for June 6-12 and July 18-24.  No professional cooking skills needed–just an ability to follow directions and some happiness to share!  Contact olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.

2.  Congratulations!  Deborah, Camp Mennoscah’s dedicated and generous office assistant of over 7 years, is retiring!  She has reduced her hours and has graciously agreed to stay on while the next assistant is found.  Camp Mennoscah is seeking someone to share in office/support operations and guest services in a position with potential growth.  Contact olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for information.

3.  There’s still time to register for camp!  Camp Mennoscah has a few openings at most camps.  Register online at campmennoscah.org!

4.  Camp Mennoscah campers and parents!  If your camper is fully vaccinated (2 weeks after the final shot) for COVID-19 before they come to camp, they will not have to quarantine (go home) if they are a close contact unless they have symptoms.  Preventative measures are being taken, but that virus can be sneaky.  Completed vaccination cards can be uploaded to the camper’s account. 

Mennonite church announcements
1.  The Kansas Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (KIPCOR) at Bethel College is offering its core mediation training (Practical Skills for Managing Interpersonal Conflict) via Zoom June 14-18. There is a fee discount if you register before May 28. See the attached flyer or visit kipcor.org for more information.

2.  Jen Helmuth Shenk felt the need to deepen her spiritual walk, so she began meeting with a spiritual director. Read about Shenk’s journey – from being a stay-at-home mom, to a photographer, to a pastor – in Evan J. Miller’s blog, “Where God’s Spirit is Already at Work.” https://www.mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/gods-spirit-already-at-work/

3.  Tim Nafziger reflects on the power of stories in fighting against militarism in his blog, “The Courageous, Vulnerable, Improbable Story of Peace.” The blog is part of Mennonite Church USA’s Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of War initiative. Read more about Nafziger’s story here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/courageous-story-peace/

5.  Authors Elain Enns and Ched Myers shared a presentation based on their new book, “Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler Discipleship of Decolonization” in a recorded webinar from Mennonite Church USA. View it here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/webinars/

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Book signing: Saturday, June 5, from 1-3 at Faith and Life Bookstore Kathy Wiens will be signing her new book, Please Don’t Send Me Back.  This is a sequel to her first book, Bars, Dumps and Other Childhood Hangouts

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Hesston College announcements:

• Attend prospective student visit events, like our summer Theatre Camp.

Join in a celebration of the “bare necessities” June 7 to 18 in a weekday camp from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. with a public performance to follow. Auditions will take place during camp and everyone who wants a part in the show will get one! Participants may also help build set pieces, props and costumes. Registration closes June 1.  Mail form and check to Hesston College Theatre Director, Box 3000, Hesston, KS 67062. More details at: www.hesston.edu/theatrecamp 
More details regarding admissions visits at www.hesston.edu/admissions/visit

• Golf with a Purpose! Join us for the Lark Open Golf Benefit on June 12 at the Hesston Golf Park. More details at www. hesston.edu/lark-open
• Watch the newest Peacing it Together interview, hosted by Tony Brown, Hesston College’s peace ambassador and artist in residence: www.hesston.edu/peace-interviews

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The June 2021 Mennonite Mission Network PRAYER VINE is now available for download. The PDF is posted in theprayer resources section of our website and can also be downloaded directly by clicking the link below:

Download this month’s Prayer Vine (PDF)

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The link to the June issue of Prayers for Mennonite Education is below.

Prayers for Mennonite Education – June 2021

This is a monthly prayer resource prepared by Mennonite Education Agency (MEA), the education agency of Mennonite Church USA. These prayer requests were gathered from across Mennonite education, from early childhood – grade 12 schools, undergraduate schools, graduate schools and seminaries, and MEA’s Hispanic Ministries’ Seminary and Bible Institute. By partnering with these schools and helping them flourish, MEA works to strengthen the church through education. Thank you for supporting the Anabaptist-Mennonite schools through prayer.

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Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request:   Jae Young Lee, Karen Spicher and their children serve with Mennonite Mission Network in South Korea. Pray for them as they promote peace ministries through organizations, such as Korea Peacebuilding Institute and Northeast Asia Regional Peacebuilding Institute.
Western District Conference Prayer Request:  Pray for WDC congregations in pastoral transition, and potential candidates considering ministry opportunities in WDC.