Author Archives: Monica Lichti

Announcements for November 21-28, 2021

Congregational Meeting, Sunday, November 21st at 10:45am
Please use this Zoom Link to join the Special Congregational Meeting remotely to vote on the proposed Abuse Prevention and Response Policy. This meeting’s sole purpose is to vote on the proposed policy, there will not be a time of discussion during the meeting. We will use the poll function for zoom attenders. Paper ballots will be available for in-person attenders.

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 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 button. Click the red button to see the bulletin/order of service.

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
November 21, 2021
A Service of Gratitude
Prelude—Cello Concerto in D minor (Lalo)—Caleb Garber cellist, Lisa Schmidt pianist

Christ Candle Lighting—Nathan Koontz

Introit—VT #9 Come Away from Rush and Hurry – vs. 1—Chancel Choir
William Eash, director; Verlene Garber accompanist

Welcome
*Hymn— Now Thank We All Our God—VT 1
Children’s Conversation—Megan Kohlman
Worship Music—Do Not Fear (Fred Gramann)—Chancel Choir

Scripture Reading—Psalm 118:1-9; 22-29—Vern Preheim
Sermon—Gratitude in the Midst of Grief—Renee Reimer

*Hymn—Praise, I Will Praise You Lord—VT 131
Prayers of God’s people—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—Great Is Thy Faithfulness—VT 419
Benediction—Renee Reimer

Benediction Response—VT #839 Go Ye Now in Peace— Congregation join the choir on the second singing of the verse

VT = Voices Together

Audio visual—Ken Lamp
Pastors—Renee Reimer, Nathan Koontz, Dawn Yoder Harms

The Koinonia Sunday School class is looking for breakfast goodies for the next 5 Sundays. Please contact Pastor Renee if you’d like to bring something on one of those Sundays.

Pastor Renee is collecting empty shoe boxes (or similar size boxes) for a church Advent project. If you have any you’d be willing to donate, please leave them on the back pew of the sanctuary (by the nursery).

This week at BCMC

Monday, November 22
8—10 am    Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
10 am          Library Committee Meeting in Room 14
2—3 pm      Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
Tuesday, November 23
9—11 am Community Playschool
Wednesday, November 24—No choir practices tonight or Youth Group
Thursday, November 25—Thanksgiving Day—Church closed—
Happy Thanksgiving!
Friday, November 26—Office Closed; Church Locked
Sunday, November 28—First Sunday of Advent
For an Intro to Advent (Advent devotional-“Dare to Imagine”) – Press here
9:30 am     Worship Service in the Sanctuary
10:30 am   Faith Formation

bcmcXpress
Our congregation’s stewardship process, known as the bcmcXpress, provides us with opportunity to reflect on our commitment to seeking God’s treasure together through the sharing of our financial resources. It also provides us with a concrete way to Xpress BCMC’s values, priorities, and commitments:  to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.

In that spirit, you are invited to participate in the ministry at BCMC by discerning a financial commitment for 2022.  To indicate the contributions you plan to make to the general budget and Living Stones in 2022, please complete the online intent form (https://flinthillsdesign.wufoo.com/forms/bcmcxpress-2022-intent-to-give/)  by December 3, 2021 . If you plan to give via the electronic transfer system in 2022, please make a request via email to Mike Claassen (treasurer@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org). This is separate from the online giving option found on the website.

Information from the intent forms will be combined to determine total commitments for 2022. Based on the intents received, the Church Board will recommend a final budget for approval at the congregational meeting in January 2022.

Press here for the entire letter sent to the congregation:  Congregational Letter

Press here for the 2022 BCMC Budget: Budget Narrative

Don’t Forget to Return your Gifts Discernment Survey!
Sharing our Gifts
As a way of gathering up our gifts, skills, and talents for this kin-dom work, BCMCs Gifts Discernment Committee (GDC) invites you, whatever your age, to consider the gifts you would like to share with the congregation (and beyond) by completing BCMC’s Sharing Our Gifts Survey by November 28, 2021.

If you are in high school or older, you can:

complete the survey online (preferred), by following this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf5Qc8YX-STobITfc3zp-7jvBsXQq4M3MjOeqCnS4j_vKbVBg/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0
or fill out a paper copy and deposit it in the return box (both can be found on a table in the Gathering Space).

If you are in middle school-age or younger, you can:

complete the survey online, by following this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSea_gU8AabIYFYZ1XLJfxgGtOAfwwvgcJNQEbd8umg1uDLsMg/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0
or fill out a paper copy and deposit it in the return box (both can be found on a table in the Gathering Space).

Thank you for sharing the gift of who you are
as we follow Jesus
in doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.

The Gifts Discernment Committee: Dale Schrag (chair), Norma Johnson, Elaine Prouty, Frank Stucky, Dawn Yoder Harms (staff liaison)

Staff Schedules: Pastor Nathan Koontz will be gone from Nov. 23-28. Pastor Renee Reimer will be gone from Nov. 24-27.

Prayer Network is an email ministry of the Deacon Commission to provide prayer support when requested. To be added to the list, contact: office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch or call Monica at 316-283-3667. Thank you to the people who already are on the prayer network.

Budget update: October was a major shot in the arm to the church’s fiscal health. At the end of September, we had an expense over income deficit of $32,895. At the end of October, that deficit had been cut to $18,593. Thank you for coming through to make such amazing progress, but we aren’t done. We have two months to go to complete the recovery. Also remember that if you have to make a required minimum distribution (RMD) before the end of the year, you can direct it to the church, which is a charitable organization for income tax purposes.

Living Stones II update: The fellowship hall/kitchen renovations are complete and paid for! Please continue to contribute to Living Stones as you are able to begin preparing for other upgrades or renovations that may become necessary.

We offer sympathy to Willis Harder and family on the death of Willis’ brother, Donald C. Harder, Nov. 9, Wheat State Manor, Whitewater.

Helen Bargen’s 90th birthday is on November 26! Her family invites you to participate in a card shower to help her celebrate. You can send cards to:
Helen Bargen
3054 Ivy Ct. Rm 32-S
North Newton, KS 67117

New Hope Shelter
As the end of 2021 approaches, we want to say THANK YOU for your partnership throughout the year. As of 9/30, New Hope Shelter had already served more than 200 men, women and children this year. The loving support of our church volunteers and supporters enables us to serve those in crisis for short windows of time as they find stability and start anew. A recent quote from a former resident who is employed full-time in a steady job since New Hope: “Through the small group opportunities that were offered, the many one on one encounters with staff and volunteers, I experienced the love of God in new and powerful ways. The holidays could have been very sad and depressing. Instead, they were some of the most meaningful times I have experienced in recent years.” We invite your continued prayers and support as we continue to serve, love and equip in the months ahead.
–New Hope Shelter, 900 W. Broadway, Building 7, Newton. 316-283-7711

Bethel College Events

All bakers and craft makers are invited to make items for 5 Places of Christmas on Saturday, December 4 at Goerz House on Bethel College campus. Bethel College Women’s Association will again be selling baked goods, craft items, and poinsettias. Christmas candy, zwieback, peppernuts, poppyseed rolls and cinnamon rolls are always great sellers. Please bring your items to Goerz House on Friday, December 3 from 1:30-4:30pm or Saturday, December 4 from 7:00-9:00am.
Thank you for your support of Bethel College!

Mon., Nov. 22 – Bethel College Wind Ensemble Winter Concert, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors with groups of 10 or more.

Sat., Dec. 4 – Five Places of Christmas, the annual holiday open house, includes Kauffman Museum and Goerz House on the Bethel College campus, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. No charge for admission. The Bethel College Women’s Association (BCWA) is the host at Goerz House, where there will be baked goods and other items for sale. Please plan to wear a face covering indoors and follow all COVID-19 protocols requested by the venue. (Other locations: Warkentin House, Harvey County Historical Museum and Carriage Factory Gallery, all in Newton.)

Hesston College Event

– Dec. 4 7 p.m. You are invited to a theatre and music performance that explores what coming “home for Christmas” means for a diversity of people and cultures. Music and Theatre Present:  Home For Christmas
   Hesston Mennonite Church
https://www.hesston.edu/academics/departments/fine-arts/music/ All performers fully vaccinated for COVID-19 will perform without masks. Audience members are required to wear masks.  No tickets are required, but a free-will offering will be accepted following the performance. Program and livestream available at  www.hesston.edu/music.

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

Camp Mennoscah Announcements
Giving Tuesday is November 30. There aren’t any gimmicks this year to encourage you to give, just stories. Remember the camper who stayed after campfire to talk to counselors about faith and life struggles. Think of the awe-filling trips in inner tubes down the river at night and the campfires with the starry heavens above. Spend a moment with your own memories of Camp Mennoscah. Encourage everyone to follow Jesus Christ by supporting the faith formation ministry of Camp Mennoscah here. Checks can be sent to Camp Mennoscah, PO Box 65, Murdock, KS 67111.

Other events and happenings:
Summer staff applications open! Applicants should be 18 years old or older and in agreement with the Camp Mennoscah mission statement. Information and the online application can be found here! Call or email with questions!
Christmas Gathering on Dec. 18 at 2:30pm! Join us in the Dining Hall at Camp Mennoscah for afternoon fun–bring games to play indoors or out. Camp will provide popcorn and generic pop. (Masks recommended and encouraged for inside activities.)
We are grateful for you! We continue to get calls from volunteers and receive gifts of items off the Wish List. These items and projects help with the faith formation that happens at Camp Mennoscah. The list has more wishes and there are more projects to do. We can accommodate every group size, skill set and length of project you would like to tackle. Email office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to volunteer. See the Wish List for other ways to support Camp Mennoscah!
Camp Mennoscah has openings for a part-time custodial/housekeeping position (10 hours) and a part-time office/administrative position (30 hours with benefits). Some of the office/administrative tasks can be done from home. Contact Olivia at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for more information.
Camp Mennoscah is seeking a full-time Director of Development, Marketing & Communications to lead our ongoing operational and advancement needs. This position reports directly to the Board of Directors while taking directive from the Executive Director when related to operational considerations. As a member of a small, very hands-on staff, the role is expected to be highly collaborative. This professional must embrace the mission of Camp Mennoscah, have an established background in coordinating nonprofit donation strategies, possess strong written, interpersonal, leadership and relationship building skills, and work as an independent contributor with good organization and follow-through. Most of the work will commence off campus, however some in-person time at camp is required. This role involves organizing broad-based fundraising initiatives, advocating for Camp Mennoscah through speaking engagements, promotional materials, and social media, as well as recruiting volunteers, and building relationships with board members, donors and staff. Our ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree, a minimum of five years of fund development experience, or equivalent experience in church relations, and a passion for Camp Mennoscah. They should also be familiar with office related applications, and other technology used for communication and social media. Experience with CampBrain and the associated donor database is a plus. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled and early submission is encouraged. Please send application materials (resume, cover letter, references and salary requirements) to campmennojobs@att.net.

For Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level press here
For Mennonite World Conference Courier press here
For Mennonite Mission Network Giving Tuesday press here
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Are you looking for a meaningful Christmas gift for friends or family? Give a gift of peace and inspiration with the “Pause: Play, Breathe, Pray” card deck! Developed by Mennonite Church USA Faith Formation leaders, each card has a different image on one side and a prayerful pause on the other. Learn more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/pause-play-breathe-pray

Calling all pastors and faith formation leaders! Registration is now open for Pastors & Leaders | Deep Faith 2022, a joint conference of Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary (AMBS) and Mennonite Church USA Faith Formation. Join us Feb. 21-24, 2022, either virtually or in person on the AMBS campus in Elkhart, Indiana, to explore the theme, “Formed in the Wilderness, Leading in Hope.” Learn more here: ambs.edu/pastorsandleaders.

Menno Snapshots
Ruth Goring, Mennonite author of children’s books, wrote about how her faith community nurtured her writing and art for children. Read her blog, “Picture books for the kin-dom of God,” here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/kin-dom-of-god.

Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of Poverty
In his blog, “Seeing poverty up close around the world,” Stanley Green, executive conference minister of Pacific Southwest Mennonite Conference, recounts his experiences with poverty in Cambodia, South Africa and Argentina, where he saw people impoverished due to low wages, lack of education, gentrification and systemic oppression. Read about his experiences here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/seeing-poverty-up-close

Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of Poverty
In his blog, “Poverty and climate injustice,” Doug Kaufman of the Center for Sustainable Climate Solutions explains how climate injustice affects people experiencing poverty and communities of color disproportionately, which causes further economic and ecological problems. Read how churches can help people in these vulnerable communities here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/poverty-climate-injustice

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Liz Breckbill and Erin McWilliams are participants in Mennonite Mission Network’s Alamosa, Colorado, Mennonite Voluntary Service unit. Pray for them as they extend the ministry of the Anabaptist Fellowship of Alamosa, through educating local youth on environmental issues in their community and contributing to environmental restoration.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for God’s faithfulness, goodness and generosity, and the many ways that WDC congregations share these gifts so that God’s healing and hope flow through us to the world.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Worship Service–November 14, 2021

November 14, 2021

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
Nov 14, 2021

GATHERING

Prelude—Now thank we all our God—(Sigfrid Karg-Elert)—Karen Schlabaugh

Lighting the Christ Candle—Duane Friesen

Welcome and Prayer

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

HEARING GOD’S WORD

Children’s Conversation—Kathy Stucky

Scripture Reading—Matthew 13:33—Gwen Neufeld

Sermon— The Dough is Rising—Dawn Yoder Harms, Ron Guenther, Mennonite Disaster Service

RESPONDING

*Hymn of Response—Jesus Christ is Love Divine—VT 749

Kingdom Report: Gifts Discernment Survey—Dale Schrag

Prayers of God’s people—Duane Friesen

SENDING

*Sending Hymn—We, Your People, Sing Your Praises—VT 849

Benediction—Dawn Yoder Harms

Postlude—Jubliance (Raymond Haan)—Karen Schlabaugh—(please remain seated)

VT = Voices Together

AV technician—Ben Lichti

Flowers at the front of the church—Judy Friesen

Thank you Judy Friesen for today’s display on the communion table

Pastors—Renee Reimer, Nathan Koontz, Dawn Yoder Harms

Announcements for November 14-21, 2021

This week at BCMCMonday, November 15
8—10 am    Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2—3 pm      Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
Tuesday, November 16
9—11 am Community Playschool
Wednesday, November 17
8—10 am   Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2—3 pm     Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
6:45 pm     Menno Singers—Fellowship Hall
7 pm           Youth Group
7:30 pm     Chancel Choir—Sanctuary
Thursday, November 18
9-11 am     Community Playschool
2 pm           Hospitality Commission in Fellowship Hall
4 pm           Staff Congregation Relations Committee—Rm 14
6:30 pm     Chancel Bells—Room B7
7 pm           Bethel College Women’s Association in Fellowship Hall
Friday, November 19
8—10 am  Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2—3 pm    Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
Sunday, November 21
9:30 am     Worship Service in the Sanctuary
10:30 am   Faith Formation

Pastor’s Renee and Nathan will be attending their last Transition into Leadership (a 2 year program through AMBS) weekend November 12-14.

BCMC COMMUNITY NEWS

Helen Bargen’s 90th birthday is on November 26! Her family invites you to participate in a card shower to help her celebrate. You can send cards to:
Helen Bargen
3054 Ivy Ct. Rm 32-S
North Newton, KS 67117

Norma Johnson’s brother, Tim Johnson of Denver, Colorado passed away on Wednesday, November 10 at age 63 from early onset Alzheimer’s disease. Please keep Tim’s spouse, Stacie McMullen, and all of the Johnson family in your prayers as they mourn his death and celebrate his life.

On Sunday, November 21^st at 10:45am the congregation will hold a special hybrid congregational meeting to vote on the proposed Abuse Prevention and Response policy. This meeting’s sole purpose is to vote on the proposed policy, there will not be a time of discussion during this meeting. If you do have questions regarding this new proposed policy or want to better understand the rationale of how we used your feedback, please send your questions to office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org by November 18^th. An APRC member will do their best to answer any questions directly before the November 21^st meeting. Paper ballots will be available for in-person attenders and zoom attenders will be able to vote via the zoom poll option. Please let Monica, in the church office, know if you would like a paper ballot to mail in prior to the meeting. The mail in ballots will need to be returned to the church office by November 18^th in order to be included in the vote count.

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

Our speaker for Peace Sunday was Mel Lehman, who works with Common Humanity. He talked about the Middle East and peace efforts there. One of the things he mentioned was exchanging Christmas cards. We have that opportunity.
We will be sending cards to Bethlehem Bible College in Bethlehem, Israel. Small or medium sized cards are recommended. Sign and then print you name. First name only or first and last initial are also fine. You may print a short message if you wish. There will be cards on a table in the gathering place for you to sign, if you wish. Address the card to “A friend in Bethlehem”.
All cards must be back in the church office by Sunday, November 14. Cards for us should be returned by Christmas.
Thank you. Witness Commission

LOCAL SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES and NEWS

Meat Canning Days Are Coming
Mennonite Central Committee works to meet hunger, sanitation and education needs around the world. One of the ways local people can help is at our yearly meat canning event. This year it will be November 16 and 17 for Newton area churches at the MCC mid states building in North Newton. Please use the attached link to sign up to help. Financial donations are also needed. If you have questions, talk to your church’s MCC contact person (Lowell Stucky) or call the MCC office ((316) 283-2720). Thanks.
https://tinyurl.com/MeatCanning2021

BETHEL COLLEGE NEWS

All bakers and craft makers are invited to make items for 5 Places of Christmas on Saturday, December 4, at Goerz House on Bethel College campus.
Bethel College Women’s Association will again be selling baked goods , craft items, and poinsettias. Christmas candy, zwieback, peppernuts, poppyseed rolls and cinnamon rolls are always great sellers.
Please bring your items to Goerz House on Friday, December 3, from 1:30-4:30pm or Saturday, December 4 from 7:00-9:00am.
Thank you for your support of Bethel College!

Life Enrichment at Bethel College has been canceled for spring 2022, due to ongoing health and safety concerns. Organizers hope to resume Life Enrichment in fall 2022.

TODAY (Sun., Nov. 14) – KIPCOR Film Series: A Home Called Nebraska, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Emily Haverkamp, an immigration and asylum lawyer from Wichita, will lead the discussion following the screening. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors with groups of 10 or more.

Last week to view “Voices Together,” a display of the original artwork featured in the new Voices Together hymnal, through Fri., Nov. 19,in the Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Gallery hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays.

Mon., Nov. 22 – Bethel College Wind Ensemble Winter Concert, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors with groups of 10 or more.

Kauffman Museum at Bethel College seeks a visitor services coordinator: an organized, detail-oriented, social media-savvy, curious, friendly individual to work 75-100% FTE with visitors, school groups, volunteers and student staffers, and to do scheduling and internal office management. The VSC will be a part of a multitasking team of five. For the job description and to apply, visit http://www.kauffmanmuseum.org/vsc. For more information, contact Andi Andres at asa@bethelks.edu or 316-283-1612.

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

Conference Minister Heidi Regier Kreider plans to be out of the office November 15 – December 31, 2021, for a sabbatical leave approved by the WDC Executive Board. In Heidi’s absence, ministry responsibilities will be covered by other WDC staff and board, commission or committee leaders. Further details will be communicated directly to pastors, congregations and leadership groups. For more information, contact WDC at wdc@mennowdc.org or 316-283-6300.

Shalom Mennonite Church (800 East 1st Street, Newton Kansas), will host a presentation and discussion with Leonard & Antoinette Kiswangi from the Congo DRC along with Charles Buller of AIMM on Friday, November 19th at 7:00 pm. Fresh from their recent retreat with the Africa Leadership Coaching Network along the banks of the Kwilu River, they seek to re-imagine leadership among Anabaptist communities in Africa. Also planning to join us by zoom will be Bruce Yoder, Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission’s new co-director who will share an update on AIMM’s recent gathering of its international partners in Kikwit, Congo. Questions about this event can be directed to Charles Buller at 574.238.9659 or Shalom Mennonite Church at 316.283.7395

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp Announcements

The Rocky Mountain November 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”.

Jr. High (Jan. 21-23) & Sr. High (Feb. 18-20) Snow Camps are back for 2022! – The time has come to enjoy the beauty and chill and of RMMC in the winter once again. Come play in the snow and on the ice and then be ready to come inside for good food, fellowship and worship together. For Jr. High, Sarah Neher will be sharing on the theme “Filling Your Toolbox” of spiritual practices. Guidelines similar to the summer camping programs (i.e. upload negative COVID test within 3 days and vaccination card if had, along with inside mask wearing and optional outside mask wearing) will be in place for safety in gathering together. Visit the camp web page (www.rmmc.org) for additional details and to sign-up that you’re headed to the Colorado Rockies to start the new year!

Hesston College AnnouncementsHesston College Masterworks: Bach, Brixi, Mozart and Handel – Nov. 13,
7 p.m. at Hesston Mennonite ChurchJoin us for an evening featuring Baroque and Classical masterpieces! Bach’s cantata “Bringet dem Herrn Ehre seine,” BWV 148; Brixi’s “Organ Concerto in F,” featuring Kenneth Rodgers, organ; Mozart’s “Exsultate, Jubilate,” K165 featuring Dr. Holly Swartzendruber, soprano; and Handel’s “Hallelujah, Amen” from “Judas Maccabaeus.” Musicians include Bel Canto Singers, area artists, and professional orchestra. Program and livestream at www.hesston.edu/music
Hesston College Keyboard Festival – Nov. 20;
Finals recital at 3 p.m. at Hesston Mennonite ChurchArea piano and organ students are invited for a day filled with competition rounds and workshops. Categories open for Elementary, Junior, and Senior divisions. Schedule and registration information at www.hesston.edu/keyboardfest The finals recital is open to the public in person or at www.hesston.edu/livestream

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Open enrollment for The Corinthian Plan continues through Dec. 31. All Mennonite Church USA-affiliated congregations can enroll their eligible staff for coverage. For more information, please visit mennoniteusa.org

Three pastors from across the denomination share their experiences with intergenerational worship in this recent Mennonite Church USA Faith Formation roundtable discussion. Watch the recorded webinar here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/ff-intergenerational

As part of the Mennonite Church USA and MennoMedia’s Common Read initiative, Sara Wenger-Shenk discussed her book “Tongue-Tied,” in which she investigates the reasons why people who claim the name of Christ are so reluctant to talk about him. Watch and share the webinar recording here: mennoniteusa.org/commonread-webinar

Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of Poverty
Lane Miller laments the systems that benefit some and leave others in poverty in his prayer, “The cost of poverty,” which is part of Mennonite Church USA’s “Learn, Pray, Join” initiative. Join him in praying that we can achieve a different way of seeing and being, so that poverty can be vanquished. www.mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/the-cost-of-poverty/

Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of Poverty
Poverty is present in our communities, even when it’s hidden. In their blog, “Poverty in Harvey County, Kansas,” Hesston College’s Del and Michele Hershberger share how under-employment, natural disasters and depopulation have caused people in their community to struggle silently with poverty, often leaving those around them oblivious to their financial difficulties. Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/poverty-harvey-county.

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Severe funding cuts are hampering the functions of Kalonda Bible Institute, where many Mennonite church leaders are trained in Congo. Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for the professors and their families, who have lost their incomes, and for Bercy Mundedi, the director, who has an ardent desire to see the next generation of church leaders prepared for God’s work.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for WDC’s online book discussion this Thursday, focusing on The Land is Not Empty: Following Jesus in Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery, and pray for wisdom as we reckon with the legacy that continues to have devastating effects on Indigenous Peoples around the globe.

Worship Service–November 7, 2021

Press here for worship service

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
November 7, 2021
Stewardship Sunday

Prelude— Come, Great God of All the Ages

God, Who Made the Earth and Heaven

Now Thank We All Our God

(Paul Manz)—Shirley King, organ

Christ Candle Lighting—Dawn Yoder Harms

Land Acknowledgment

Welcome and Prayer

Hymn—God Whose Giving (stanza 3 sung in unison)—VT 745

Worship Music—Lord God of Abraham from Elijah (Felix Mendelssohn)—Gene Miller

Children’s Conversation—Esther Koontz

Scripture Reading— Matthew 13:44-46—Addie Zerger

Sermon—What is your pearl? — Nathan Koontz

Hymn—Will You Come and Follow me—VT 540

Kingdom Report: bcmcXpressI—Al Peters

Prayer of Dedication

L: Great God, you are the giver of life and all that is good.

P: Accept our gifts and multiply them.

Accept our hearts and mold them.

Accept our lives and transform them,

that we might live in the power of the resurrection,

willing to risk all for your kingdom.

L: In the name of Jesus we offer our gifts,

and in the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

Prayers of God’s people

Hymn—Sent Forth by God’s Blessing—VT 812

Benediction—Nathan Koontz

Postlude—We Believe in One True God (J. S. Bach)—Shirley King

VT = Voices Together

Audio visual—Ken Lamp

Flowers at the front of the church—Brenda Turner

Pastors—Renee Reimer, Nathan Koontz, Dawn Yoder Harms

Land Acknowledgement compiled by Florence Schloneger from words by Mark Charles and VT #878

As we do on the first Sunday of each month,

we acknowledge that we worship

on the land of the Kanza, Osage, and Wichita.

We thank them for their care and respect for this land

and acknowledge the injustice of their forced removal.

We ask the Spirit to heal our histories

and find new paths of right relationships with them

and all of creation.

Announcements for November 7-14, 2021

Remember that Daylight Savings Time ends on Sunday, November 7. You will need to turn your clocks back one hour.

No Sr high Sunday School this Sunday (November 7) (Senior High Youth Group Retreat at Camp Mennoscah)

Please pray for the sr high youth and sponsors attending a fall retreat together at Camp Mennoscah November 6-7.

Faith Formation 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!) – The Agape House
The Agape Class will meet in Room B8
All other adult classes begin at 10:30 am
All Sunday school classrooms in the church will be open

This week at BCMCMonday, November 8
8—10 am    Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2—3 pm      Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
Tuesday, November 9
9—11 am Community Playschool
7 pm          Reopening Church Task Force Group—Fellowship Hall
Wednesday, November 10
8—10 am   Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2—3 pm     Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
6:45 pm     Menno Singers—Fellowship Hall
7 pm           Youth Group
7:30 pm     Chancel Choir—Sanctuary
Thursday, November 11
9-11 am     Community Playschool
11:30 am   Sojourners Sunday School Class Lunch in Fellowship Hall
6:30 pm     Chancel Bells—Room B7
7 pm          Finance Committee Meeting by Zoom
Friday, November 12
8—10 am  Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2—3 pm    Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
Saturday, November 13
9 am to 3 pm Western District Conference event in Fellowship Hall
Sunday, November 14
9:30 am     Worship Service in the Sanctuary; Music by the Chancel Bells
10:30 am   Faith Formation

Locking policy for BCMC
We will be locking doors at BCMC at 5 pm each day. If there are meetings in the church after 5 pm, the south doors (clear glass automatic doors) will be open. For Wednesday night activities, please enter the church through the south doors.

Pastor’s Renee and Nathan will be attending their last Transition into Leadership (a 2 year program through AMBS) weekend November 12-14.

BCMC COMMUNITY NEWS

October 31 Offering at BCMC: General Fund $6,373.34; MCC Meat Canning $825; Plant Fund $100; Living Stones $105; Phil Koontz Memorial $100

LOCAL SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES and NEWS

BCMC and Faith Churches are committed to providing volunteers and meals for NEW HOPE SHELTER the week of November 3 to 9. We are always in need of more volunteers. Many who have served generously in the past are aging and we need replacements. Please consider offering your time and yourself to serve those among us who are in need of shelter until New Hope can help them move on to a more secure situation. Contact Valetta Seymour if you have questions or feel ready to be a volunteer. 620-217-7536, seymour2314@gmail.com.

Life Enrichment at Bethel College has been canceled for spring 2022, due to ongoing health and safety concerns. Organizers hope to resume Life Enrichment in fall 2022.

Tues., Nov. 9 – Bethel College’s Organ Recital Series returns in-person with Shirley Sprunger King, D.M.A., 7 p.m., in the Ad Building chapel. Chapel seating will be limited, and there will be a livestream option on the big screen in Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors with groups of 10 or more.

Sun., Nov. 14 – KIPCOR Film Series: A Home Called Nebraska, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Emily Haverkamp, an immigration and asylum lawyer from Wichita, will lead the discussion following the screening. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors with groups of 10 or more.

Now in the Regier Gallery at Bethel College – “Voices Together,” a display of the original artwork featured in the new Voices Together hymnal, through Nov. 19. Gallery hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays. IN ADDITION, Rachel Epp Buller, professor of visual arts and design at Bethel and gallery and exhibit coordinator, is available to church groups who would like to visit the exhibit on an evening or weekend outside regular hours. Contact her at rebuller@bethelks.edu to set up a time between now and Nov. 19.

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

Camp Mennoscah will be at Hesston College (Nov. 8), Tabor College (Nov. 9) and Bethel College (Nov. 10) recruiting for summer staff with other Mennonite Camping Association camps. Camps are usually set up at tables near the cafeteria. We’ll be there from mid-morning through lunch. Stop by to hear more about Summer 2022!

Other Camp Mennoscah events and happenings:

We are grateful for you! We continue to get calls from volunteers and receive gifts of items off the Wish List. These items and projects help with the faith formation that happens at Camp Mennoscah. The list has more wishes and there are more projects to do. We can accommodate every group size, skill set and length of project you would like to tackle. Check out these ways to Get Involved! and support camp’s ministry. Email office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to volunteer. See the Wish List for other ways to support Camp Mennoscah!
Camp Mennoscah has openings for a part-time custodial/housekeeping position (10 hours) and a part-time office/administrative position (30 hours with benefits). Some of the office/administrative tasks can be done from home. Contact Olivia at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for more information.
Camp Mennoscah is seeking a full-time Director of Development, Marketing & Communications to lead our ongoing operational and advancement needs. This position reports directly to the Board of Directors while taking directive from the Executive Director when related to operational considerations. As a member of a small, very hands-on staff, the role is expected to be highly collaborative. This professional must embrace the mission of Camp Mennoscah, have an established background in coordinating nonprofit donation strategies, possess strong written, interpersonal, leadership and relationship building skills, and work as an independent contributor with good organization and follow-through. Most of the work will commence off campus, however some in-person time at camp is required.
This role involves organizing broad-based fundraising initiatives, advocating for Camp Mennoscah through speaking engagements, promotional materials, and social media, as well as recruiting volunteers, and building relationships with board members, donors and staff.
Our ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree, a minimum of five years of fund development experience, or equivalent experience in church relations, and a passion for Camp Mennoscah. They should also be familiar with office related applications, and other technology used for communication and social media. Experience with CampBrain and the associated donor database is a plus.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled and early submission is encouraged. Please send application materials (resume, cover letter, references and salary requirements) to campmennojobs@att.net.

For Mennonite Creation Care Network press here

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

For Mennonite Central Committee In Touch press here

Hesston College AnnouncementsPerforming Arts Scholarship Auditions – Nov. 12Know a senior interested in the arts? Invite them to schedule a visit and audition, email us at finearts@hesston.edu.
Hesston College Masterworks: Bach, Brixi, Mozart and Handel – Nov. 13,
7 p.m. at Hesston Mennonite ChurchJoin us for an evening featuring Baroque and Classical masterpieces! Bach’s cantata “Bringet dem Herrn Ehre seine,” BWV 148; Brixi’s “Organ Concerto in F,” featuring Kenneth Rodgers, organ; Mozart’s “Exsultate, Jubilate,” K165 featuring Dr. Holly Swartzendruber, soprano; and Handel’s “Hallelujah, Amen” from “Judas Maccabaeus.” Musicians include Bel Canto Singers, area artists, and professional orchestra. Program and livestream at www.hesston.edu/music
Hesston College Keyboard Festival – Nov. 20;
Finals recital at 3 p.m. at Hesston Mennonite ChurchArea piano and organ students are invited for a day filled with competition rounds and workshops. Categories open for Elementary, Junior, and Senior divisions. Schedule and registration information at www.hesston.edu/keyboardfest The finals recital is open to the public in person or at www.hesston.edu/livestream

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

Discover creative ways to engage with “Dare to Imagine,” Mennonite Church USA’s 2021 Advent at Home worship guide. Join writer Talashia Keim Yoder for a one-hour webinar on Sunday, Nov. 14 at 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT for creative ideas on how to slow down and connect with God each day during this season of anticipation. Learn about the guide here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/news/advent2021. Register for the webinar here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/adventwebinar2021.

The Mennonite Church USA Executive Board welcomed seven new board members during their first meeting of the biennium. At this meeting, the Executive Board received training and focused on agency relationships and processing resolutions. Read the news release here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/7-new-members.

The Mennonite Church USA Constituency Leaders Council met in October to discuss its role in preparing churches for the special delegate assembly, which will take place May 27-30, 2022 in Kansas City, Missouri. Read the news release here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/clc-meeting-oct21.

#BeTransformed
Joanne Gallardo, conference minister for the Indiana-Michigan Mennonite Conference, shares how the transformation that she saw in her conference inspired her own transformation in her blog, “Renewing my own vision.” Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/renewing-own-vision.

Menno Snapshots
Voices Together committee members have created a list of songs and worship resources for churches and individuals to use during the thanksgiving season. Learn more in their blog, “Thanksgiving songs and resources in Voices Together.” https://www.mennoniteusa.org/thanksgiving-voices-together

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network praises God for Sue and Wally Fahrer’s ministries of music, church-planting, pastoring and counseling in the United Kingdom, which spanned nearly four decades. Pray for them as they continue to serve God in their retirement in Liverpool, England.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC Pastors’ Day Apart on November 13, that the Holy Spirit would guide participants and presenter Sara Wenger Shenk in exploring the theme, Tongue-Tied: Is Talking About Faith a Lost Art?

WORSHIP SERVICE FOR October 31, 2021–––YOU WILL HAVE TO PRESS READ MORE TO SEE THE LINK

Oct. 31 Worship Service Press Here

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
October 31, 2021

GATHERING

Prelude—Concerto for Cello in D Minor by Lalo—Caleb Garber and Verlene Garber

Lighting the Christ Candle—Ben Lichti

Welcome

Prayer

*Hymn of Praise—Could it be that God is Singing—VT 42

HEARING GOD’S WORD

Children’s Conversation—3^rd Grade Bible Presentation—Renee Reimer

Worship Music—I waited for the Lord (Mendelssohn)— Ron Garber and Virginia Mininger

Scripture Reading—Psalm 146; Luke 16:19-31—Norma Johnson

Sermon—Faithful Economics—Dawn Yoder Harms

RESPONDING

*Hymn of Response—God of the Bible—VT 420

Prayers of God’s people

SENDING

*Sending Hymn—Sing a New World Into Being—VT 809

Benediction—Dawn Yoder Harms

Postlude—Lobe den Herren (Micheelsen—Verlene Garber

VT = Voices Together

Audio visual—Francis Toews

Pastors—Renee Reimer, Nathan Koontz, Dawn Yoder Harms

Announcements for October 31-November 7, 2021

This week at BCMC
Monday, November 1
8–10 am Bethel College classes in the sanctuary
2–3 pm Bethel College class in the sanctuary
7 pm Facilities Committee Meeting in Fellowship Hall
Tuesday, November 2
9–11 am Community Playschool in playschool rooms
Wednesday November 3
8–10 am Bethel College classes in the sanctuary
2–3 pm Bethel College class in the sanctuary
6:45 pm Menno Singers in Fellowship Hall
7:30 pm Chancel Choir in Sanctuary
7 pm Senior High Youth Group–Room 24
Thursday, November 4
9–11 am Community Playschool in playschool rooms
6:30 pm Chancel Bells in Room B7
7 pm Church Board Meeting by Zoom
Friday, November 5
8–10 am Bethel College classes in the sanctuary
2–3 pm Bethel College class in the sanctuary
Saturday, November 6
Senior High Youth Group Retreat at Camp Mennoscah
Sunday, November 7–Stewardship Sunday
9:30 am Worship service in the sanctuary
10:30 am Faith Formation

BCMC COMMUNITY NEWS

INVITATION TO RING!
The BCMC Adult Bell choir will begin rehearsing on Thursday Nov. 4, to prepare for worship music on Nov. 14 and Dec. 21. New or experienced ringers that are interested in being part of this group are invited to join. Ringers will meet in Rm B7 at 6:30 pm.

Invitation to all 3rd through 8th Graders:
All are welcome to attend and join the upcoming Wednesday Evening Music-making of the Menno Singers in the Fellowship Hall from 6:45 – 7:30 pm beginning November 3. We will meet for 6 Wednesdays (November 3,10,17 and December 1, 8, 15) and participate in the Sunday morning Advent service on December 12. Come and bring friends! Virginia Mininger, Director. Mary Ann Boschmann, Accompanist/Assistant.

Chancel choir resumes on Wed, Nov 3, 7:30 pm (please note time due to Menno Ringers rehearsal time), with William Eash directing. Please contact Monica Lichti if you plan to participate. Please note that all participants will be required to wear masks.

Our speaker for peace Sunday was Mel Lehman, who works with Common Humanity. He talked about the Middle East and peace efforts there. One of the things he mentioned was exchanging Christmas cards. We have that opportunity.
We will be sending cards to Bethlehem Bible College in Bethlehem, Israel. Small or medium sized cards are recommended. Sign and then print you name. First name only or first and last initial are also fine. You may print a short message if you wish. There will be cards on a table in the gathering place for you to sign, if you wish. Address the card to “A friend in Bethlehem”.
All cards must be back in the church office by Sunday, November 14. Cards for us should be returned by Christmas.
Thank you. Witness Commission

BCMC Budget update: The church’s budget thermometer is pointing to critical. At the end of September, we had an expense over income deficit of $32,895. That’s an increase of $4,395 from August. We need your help now. Remember, we are in the final quarter and time is short. Also remember that if you have required minimum distribution (RMD), you can direct it to the church, which is a charitable organization for income tax purposes.

October 24 Offering at BCMC: General Fund $6,096.09; MCC Meat Canning $700; St Hi Youth $200; Living Stones $3,255; Women’s Fellowship $50.

Please come check out the new books that have been added to our library!
We have a combination of nonfiction books, fiction, biography and one new Everybody Book. Something for everyone. Enjoy! Tongue Tied by Sara Wenger Shenk
          What Do You Say to a Dragon? By Lexi Young Peck
Taken at Birth by Jane Blasio
          Paris Dressmaker by Kristy Cambron
The Sowing Season by Katie Powner
          When Thought and Prayers Aren’t Enough by Taylor S. Schumann
Four Winds by Kristin Hannah
           Transforming the Bible and Lives of Transgender Christians by Austin Harke
          Twilight of Democracy by Anne Applebaum
          The World: A Brief Introduction by Richard Haass

LOCAL SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES and NEWS

BETHEL COLLEGE NEWS
Fri., Oct. 29 – The “Voices Together” art exhibit, a display of the original artwork featured in the new Voices Together hymnal, opens in the Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Gallery hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays and 2-4 p.m. on Sunday. IN ADDITION, Rachel Epp Buller, professor of visual arts and design at Bethel and gallery and exhibit coordinator, is available to church groups who would like to visit the exhibit on an evening or weekend outside regular hours. Contact her at rebuller@bethelks.edu to set up a time between Oct. 29-Nov. 19.

Sun., Oct. 31 – Bethel College fall choral showcase, “Bethel Sings,” featuring the Concert Choir, Women’s Ensemble, Woven and Open Road, 4 p.m.NOTE CHANGE OF LOCATION to the Administration Building steps (Memorial Hall in case of bad weather; Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors for groups of 10 or more).

Fri., Nov. 5 – The Menno Simons Lecture Endowment, with the support of the Reimer-Boese Worship and the Arts Endowment, will bring Jan Kraybill, Kansas City, to the Bethel College campus for two lectures on the theme “This is Our Story, This is our Song: The Power of Music in Community.” “The Sound of Science” is at 11 a.m. in Memorial Hall as part of Bethel’s student convocation series. “Music and Memory, Meaning and Mission” is at 7 p.m. in Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Livestream options will be available. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors for groups of 10 or more.

Fri., Nov. 5 – Reception for Menno Simons lecturer Jan Kraybill and the “Voices Together” exhibit (in the Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College), following Kraybill’s lecture that begins at 7 p.m. in Krehbiel Auditorium, in the Fine Arts Center lobby. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors for groups of 10 or more.

Sat., Nov. 6 – Kauffman Museum first-Saturday bird walk, 8 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).

Tues., Nov. 9 – Bethel College’s Organ Recital Series returns in-person with Shirley Sprunger King, D.M.A., 7 p.m., in the Ad Building chapel. Chapel seating will be limited, and there will be a livestream option in Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors with groups of 10 or more.

Sun., Nov. 14 – KIPCOR Film Series: A Home Called Nebraska, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Emily Haverkamp, an immigration and asylum lawyer from Wichita, will lead the discussion following the screening. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors with groups of 10 or more.

KIPCOR Film Series 2021-2022: Sunday, November 14, at 2:00 PM
“A Home Called Nebraska”
Film will be live and in-person in Krehbiel Auditorium in the Luyken Fine Arts Center on the campus of Bethel College. Be sure to stay after the film for another audience discussion led by a topic expert. As always, our films are free and open to the public. “A Home Called Nebraska” tells the story of our midwestern neighbors to the north and the welcome, acceptance and friendship they extended to refugees in 2020 – all during a time of national anxiety and open bigotry. Thanks to many Nebraskans’ generosity, these refugees who escaped war, torture and persecution continue to thrive and succeed today.
PLEASE NOTE that we will continue to follow Bethel College’s COVID-19 guidelines, which currently require everyone to wear masks indoors for groups of 10 or more, regardless of vaccination status. You can find additional information HERE.

Sunflower Performing Arts: Sunflower Soirée – Oct. 31, 3 p.m. at Hesston Mennonite Church. Formerly known as Hesston-Bethel Performing Arts, Sunflower Performing Arts series will open with the first-ever Sunflower Soirée, a concert of local and regional artists that also promotes the season ahead and kicks off the organization’s annual patron drive. Free of charge, this event will feature the following artists: pianist Karen Schlabaugh; The Sunflower Trio; flautists Kristin Shaffer and Kenna Graber; guitarists Howard Glanton and Excier Rodriguez; soprano Holly Swartzendruber and pianist Karen Unruh; and musicians Ken Rodgers and Russell Adrian. Sunflower Performing Arts season tickets can be purchased or picked up at the concert. Tax-deductible donations can also be made to Sunflower Performing Arts during this time. Light refreshments will be served. Audience members are required to wear masks while inside the church, and the artists will wear masks when not performing. www.hesston.edu/livestream

CAMP MENNOSCAH NEWS

Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat is scheduled for November 5-7, at Camp Mennoscah! Register at www.campmennoscah.org! There is only one Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat. Lodging will be in the Retreat Center and cropping/crafting will be in the Main Camp dining hall. Space heaters will be available for both areas since the repairs for the furnaces will not be complete by the beginning of November. Masks encouraged when inside.

Cleaning House! Camp Mennoscah has cleared out years of accumulated objects from the two maintenance sheds. The items are now in front of the maintenance shed. We’re working to find a better place for them, but it will take some time. Keep your eyes open! A small number of items will be sold.

Other events and happenings:

Camp Mennoscah will be recruiting for 2022 summer staff on Nov. 8 at Hesston, Nov. 9 at Tabor, and November 10 at Bethel College with other Mennonite Camping Association camps. Tables are usually near the cafeteria doors. We’ll be there from mid-morning through lunch.
We are grateful for you! We continue to get calls from volunteers and receive gifts of items off the Wish List. These items and projects help with the faith formation that happens at Camp Mennoscah. The list has more wishes and there are more projects to do. We can accommodate every group size, skill set and length of project you would like to tackle. Check out these ways to Get Involved! and support camp’s ministry. Email office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to volunteer. See the Wish List for other ways to support Camp Mennoscah!
Camp Mennoscah has openings for a part-time custodial/housekeeping position (10 hours) and a part-time office/administrative position (30 hours with benefits). Some of the office/administrative tasks can be done from home. Contact Olivia at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for more information.
Camp Mennoscah is seeking a full-time Director of Development, Marketing & Communications to lead our ongoing operational and advancement needs. This position reports directly to the Board of Directors while taking directive from the Executive Director when related to operational considerations. As a member of a small, very hands-on staff, the role is expected to be highly collaborative. This professional must embrace the mission of Camp Mennoscah, have an established background in coordinating nonprofit donation strategies, possess strong written, interpersonal, leadership and relationship building skills, and work as an independent contributor with good organization and follow-through. Most of the work will commence off campus, however some in-person time at camp is required. This role involves organizing broad-based fundraising initiatives, advocating for Camp Mennoscah through speaking engagements, promotional materials, and social media, as well as recruiting volunteers, and building relationships with board members, donors and staff. Our ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree, a minimum of five years of fund development experience, or equivalent experience in church relations, and a passion for Camp Mennoscah. They should also be familiar with office related applications, and other technology used for communication and social media. Experience with CampBrain and the associated donor database is a plus. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled and early submission is encouraged. Please send application materials (resume, cover letter, references and salary requirements) to campmennojobs@att.net.

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!

Mennonite Central Committee Announcements

NEW Seek discipleship program for young adults: Seek is a new six-month intentional discipleship program from MCC which encourages young adults (18-20 years of age) to learn more deeply what it means to be an Anabaptist follower of Jesus. The program will include multiple discipleship and service opportunities with MCC partners in Palestine and Israel and Jordan. The Seek program begins in January 2022 and takes place in Palestine and Israel. To learn more and apply for the Seek program, visit mcc.org/seek.

SALT applications are now open! Are you interested in learning a new language, visiting a new country, and joining a new community abroad? SALT applications are now open! Through SALT (young adults age 18-30), practice your skills in education, peace building, agriculture, community health care and more while connecting with the global Anabaptist community of faith. For more information, visit mcc.org/SALT or contact Abby Endashaw, Young Adult Programs Coordinator at MCC Central States abbyendashaw@mcc.org.

MCC seeking SWAP Location Coordinators in Hindman, Kentucky: MCC Appalachia’s SWAP (Sharing With Appalachian People) program coordinates week-long service opportunities for young people and adults, to provide housing repair for low-income individuals and families. The Hindman Location Coordinators will plan and direct all aspects of the SWAP ministry in Hindman, Kentucky. MCC is also looking to connect with other ministries related to economic development and/or food security and would welcome location coordinators with these interests and backgrounds. Apply online for this opening by December 10 at mcc.org/swap-hindman-location-coordinators. For more information contact Amber Falcón at 574-534-4133 or AmberFalcon@mcc.org.

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Mennonite Church USA is once again offering its free Advent at Home devotional. Written by Talashia Keim Yoder, pastor of Christian Formation at College Mennonite Church, Goshen, Indiana, the 2021 guide follows the theme of Leader magazine and is appropriate for all ages. Download your copy here. https://www.mennoniteusa.org/adventathome

If your family has recently experienced a birth, marriage or death, Mennonite Church USA (MC USA) Archives would like to preserve this information for free, through the new vital records form on the MC USA Archives website. Read more about how you can help the Archives memorialize your family history here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/new/vital-records-form

Menno Snapshots
It can be easy for churches to self-segregate based on age, but when a church intentionally seeks out intergenerational faith formation, everyone benefits from richness that age diversity brings. Carrie Mast, in her blog “Faith for all — at the same time,” shares how her congregation has successfully engaged in intergenerational faith formation. Read her story here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/faith-for-all

Menno Snapshots
When choosing which worship resources to include in the new hymnal, the Voices Together team chose to include many resources from before the Reformation. Learn why including these resources was important to the team and which resources predate the Reformation in Sarah Kathleen Johnson and Carl Bear’s blog, “Singing with the early and medieval church through ‘Voices Together.’” https://www.mennoniteusa.org/medieval-through-voicestogether Menno Snapshots
When high school seniors graduate and head off to college, it can be difficult for their home church to stay connected with them. Andrea Wall, in her blog “Staying connected to your college students,” discusses some methods that she has used to stay connected with the college students from her congregation. https://www.mennoniteusa.org/staying-connected-students

#BeTransformed
In his blog, “Transforming water,” Scott Hartman, Mennonite Church USA director of event planning, ponders the relationship between water’s transforming powers and his own ability to transform and be transformed throughout his faith formation journey. Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/transforming-water

Would you like to receive monthly bulletin announcements from Mennonite Church USA? Get links to the latest news, blogs and resources by subscribing here. https://www.mennoniteusa.org/subscribe-bulletin

Mennonite World Conference Info press here

Mennonite Mission Network News from Around the World press here

Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Jaden Hostetter, who is serving with Mennonite Mission Network and VMMissions, has started a ceramic studio for refugees who have been welcomed by the Quito Mennonite Church in Ecuador. Pray that, through creating art, participants will a find a space of healing and a place to build community.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for the generous financial gifts and prayers of WDC congregations and members to support conference ministries of sustaining ministers, resourcing congregations and encouraging church planting.

WORSHIP SERVICE FOR October 24, 2021–––YOU WILL HAVE TO PRESS READ MORE TO SEE THE LINK

Press here for October 24 Worship Service

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
October 24, 2021

Prelude—Liebster Jesu, wir sind hier (Johann Gottfried Walther)—Karen Schlabaugh, organ

Christ Candle Lighting—Adam Robb

Welcome and Prayer

Hymn—Together—VT 389

Children’s Conversation—Jim Robb

Worship Music—Moto perpetuo by Karl Bohm—Lily Schloneger, violin

Scripture Reading—Luke 15:11-32—Lois Brubacher

Sermon—The Found Son(s)—Renee Reimer

Hymn—Softly and Tenderly Jesus is Calling—VT 544

Prayers of God’s people—Adam Robb

Hymn—God Be with You Till We Meet Again—VT 840

Benediction—Renee Reimer

Postlude—Lobe den Herren, den mächtigen Koenig Der Ehren (Johann Gottfried Walther)—

Karen Schlabaugh, organ

VT = Voices Together

Audio visual—Ben Lichti

Pastors—Renee Reimer, Nathan Koontz, Dawn Yoder Harms

Announcements for October 24-31, 2021

This week at BCMC
Monday, October 25
8 to10 am Bethel College classes in the sanctuary
11 am Inurnment Service for Douglas Schmidt with only family present
2 to 3 pm Bethel College class in the sanctuary
Tuesday, October 26
9 to11 am Community Playschool in playschool rooms
Wednesday October 27
8 to 10 am Bethel College classes in the sanctuary
2 to 3 pm Bethel College class in the sanctuary
7 pm Senior High Youth Group–Room 24
7 pm Memorial service for Martha Graber in Sanctuary
Thursday, October 28
2 pm Hospitality Commission, Fellowship Hall
Friday, October 29
8 to 10 am Bethel College classes in the sanctuary
2 to 3 pm Bethel College class in the sanctuary
Sunday, October 31
9:30 am Worship service in the sanctuary
10:30 am Faith formation

Staff schedules: Custodian Mike Crawford will be on vacation Oct. 25-31

BCMC COMMUNITY NEWS

There will be a Memorial Service for Martha Graber Wednesday Oct 27, 7 pm, in the BCMC Sanctuary.

Thank you to everyone who supported the sr high youth group in their October 10th, Jazz and Charcuterie fundraiser. Together we raised over $3,000 for their upcoming Outdoor Service Trip this summer.

The Staff Congregation Relations Committee is pleased to report that the role of Music Coordinator at BCMC has been filled. Going forward, Barbara Thiesen and Verlene Garber will be sharing the role as Music Co-Coordinators at BCMC. We appreciate their willingness to share their gifts with BCMC in this way.

BCMC 2021 Directory Correction
Please make the following correction in your 2021 BCMC Directory

Richard Friesen Email: richard.friesen@cox.net

The exhibit in the Gathering Place is a tribute to John Hiebert. John worked for 50 years as the artistic designer for publications, first for the General Conference and then Mennonite Church USA. He was involved in numerous design projects beyond the scope of church work. He also designed bulletin covers and booklets for BCMC. We want to recognize his work and pay tribute to his “magical” design skills. — The Visual Arts Committee

LOCAL SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES and NEWS

COPERNICUS & GALILEO: BRIDGING SCIENCE AND FAITHBrent Hampton, family member of Zona and Omer Galle, invites everyone to a three part presentation via Zoom Webinar, on Oct 27, Nov 3, and Nov 10 at 6:00 PM CST sponsored by Brenham Presbyterian Church, with generous funding from the Eli Lilly Foundation. This presentation is free for all. Click here for more information and a zoom link for this webinar.

Newton Et Cetera Shop is getting ready for the holidays! Our Christmas Shop will open on Wednesday, November 3, and we’ll continue putting out new holiday items throughout the remainder of the season. Please consider decorating your home or workplace with secondhand decor! We also have many gift items for sale during the holidays, including some extra special items such a diamond ring, local railroad memorabilia, and vintage German, Italian and American Christmas decor. If the holidays have you in a sharing mood, you might consider purchasing $10 Newton Et Cetera Shop gift cards for one of our many community partners! We regularly donate $10 gift cards to Safehope, Newton USD 373, New Hope Shelter, Salvation Army, Peace Connections, EmberHope, Mirror, and New Jerusalem Missions. If you’d like to give our gift cards to any of those organizations, you can deliver them yourself or leave them with us to deliver. These gift cards support community members in urgent need AND support the mission and vision of the Newton Et Cetera Shop!
If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer at the Shop, we’re holding a new volunteer orientations on Thurs. 11/11/21 6-7 PM. Join us to learn more about volunteering at our shop!

Local author Brian D. Stucky has compiled a book of birth names recorded in the church records of Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church, titled “Alexanderwohl Names 1622-2020.” Find an info sheet near the church mailboxes.

BETHEL COLLEGE NEWS

Thurs., Oct. 28 – Bethel College Chamber Orchestra Halloween concert, 7:30 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors for groups of 10 or more.

Fri., Oct. 29 – The “Voices Together” art exhibit, a display of the original artwork featured in the new Voices Together hymnal, opens in the Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Gallery hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays and 2-4 p.m. on Sunday. IN ADDITION, Rachel Epp Buller, professor of visual arts and design at Bethel and gallery and exhibit coordinator, is available to church groups who would like to visit the exhibit on an evening or weekend outside regular hours. Contact her at rebuller@bethelks.edu to set up a time between Oct. 29-Nov. 19.

Sun., Oct. 31 – Bethel College fall choral showcase, “Bethel Sings,” featuring the Concert Choir, Women’s Ensemble, Woven and Open Road, 4 p.m.NOTE CHANGE OF LOCATION to the Administration Building steps (Memorial Hall in case of bad weather; Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors for groups of 10 or more).

Fri., Nov. 5 – The Menno Simons Lecture Endowment, with the support of the Reimer-Boese Worship and the Arts Endowment, will bring Jan Kraybill, Kansas City, to the Bethel College campus for two lectures on the theme “This is Our Story, This is our Song: The Power of Music in Community.” “The Sound of Science” is at 11 a.m. in Memorial Hall as part of Bethel’s student convocation series. “Music and Memory, Meaning and Mission” is at 7 p.m. in Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Livestream options will be available. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors for groups of 10 or more.

Fri., Nov. 5 – Reception for Menno Simons lecturer Jan Kraybill and the “Voices Together” exhibit (in the Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College), following Kraybill’s lecture that begins at 7 p.m. in Krehbiel Auditorium, in the Fine Arts Center lobby. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors for groups of 10 or more.

Tues., Nov. 9 – Bethel College’s Organ Recital Series returns in-person with Shirley Sprunger King, D.M.A., 7 p.m., in the Ad Building chapel. Chapel seating will be limited, and there will be a livestream option in Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors for groups of 10 or more.

KIPCOR Film Series 2021-2022: Sunday, November 14, at 2:00 PM
“A Home Called Nebraska”
Film will be live and in-person in Krehbiel Auditorium in the Luyken Fine Arts Center on the campus of Bethel College. Be sure to stay after the film for another audience discussion led by a topic expert. As always, our films are free and open to the public.
“A Home Called Nebraska” tells the story of our midwestern neighbors to the north and the welcome, acceptance and friendship they extended to refugees in 2020 – all during a time of national anxiety and open bigotry. Thanks to many Nebraskans’ generosity, these refugees who escaped war, torture and persecution continue to thrive and succeed today.
PLEASE NOTE that we will continue to follow Bethel College’s COVID-19 guidelines, which currently require everyone to wear masks indoors for groups of 10 or more, regardless of vaccination status. You can find additional information HERE.

CAMP MENNOSCAH NEWS

Camp Mennoscah will be recruiting for 2022 summer staff on Nov. 8 at Hesston, Nov. 9 at Tabor, and November 10 at Bethel College with other Mennonite Camping Association camps. Tables are usually near the cafeteria doors. We’ll be there from mid-morning through lunch.
The brush piles from the tree trimming extravaganza this past spring are ready to burn! Get a group together and schedule a day to burn (wind speed permitting). Contact Camp Mennoscah at office@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.
Camp Mennoscah has openings for a part-time custodial/housekeeping position (10 hours) and a part-time office/administrative position (30 hours with benefits). Some of the office/administrative tasks can be done from home. Contact Olivia at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for more information.
Thank you for granting wishes! We are grateful for the recent donations of items off the Wish List. The list has more wishes and there are more projects to do. We can accommodate every group size, skill set and length of project you would like to tackle. Check out these ways to Get Involved! Email office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to volunteer. See the Wish List for other ways to support Camp Mennoscah!

Mennonite Disaster Service Region 3 Annual Meeting information click here

The Rocky Mountain October 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”.

Mennonite Men announcements click here

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website at https://mennowdc.org/ to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation! See especially:

Announcements:

Stories:

Hablemos de la Iglesia. Borrón y… Cuenta Nueva. by Sandra Montes Martinez

Mennonite Central Committee has a variety of positions open for those called to be the hands and feet of God in a global context. We hope you will prayerfully consider the following service opportunities.

Seek Discipleship Program – Jordan, Palestine and Israel – Seek is a new six-month intentional discipleship program from MCC which encourages young adults (18-20 years of age) to deeply learn what it means to be an Anabaptist follower of Jesus. The program will include multiple discipleship and service opportunities with MCC partners. To learn more and apply for the Seek program, visit mcc.org/seek.

International Program Safety and Security HR Specialist – MCC seeks an International Program Safety and Security HR Specialist with experience in safety and security management, and at least 1 year experience in insecure environments. Should be committed to the Biblical call to be a peacemaker by seeking and promoting nonviolent solutions to conflict and oppression.

External Grants Coordinator – Lebanon, Syria & Iraq – MCC seeks an External Grants Coordinator who will provide support for humanitarian assistance and other externally funded projects in Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq that MCC is undertaking as a result of the ongoing needs in the region.

Program Coordinator – Lebanon, Syria & Iraq – MCC seeks a Program Coordinator. This role, based in Beirut, is tasked with managing the program’s Planning, Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting (PMER) for projects in Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq.

For more information about our current openings, including those listed here, please visit mcc.org/serve.

HESSTON COLLEGE NEWS

Bel Canto Singers Fall Concert: Deep Peace – Oct. 24, 2 p.m. at Hesston Mennonite Church. The program is inspired by this year’s theme verse at Hesston College, Ephesians 4:2-3, in which Paul calls Christians to lift each other up in community. www.hesston.edu/livestream

Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level Announcement click here
Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond click here
Mennonite Mission Network Mustard Seeds click here

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Anna Alderfer, Bowen Dick-Burkey, Dawson Duerksen, Brooke Nafziger, and Service Adventure unit leaders, Barry and Erika Kreider, who are settling into community living and extending the ministries of host congregation, Albuquerque (New Mexico) Mennonite Church. Pray for them as they work with children and youth, people without homes, Habitat for Humanity, a community art center, and an urban farm.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for the WDC Executive Board as they meet this week, to further WDC’s mission of empowering congregations to Witness and invite others to faith in Christ, Dwell in just and loving relationships, and Connect to God’s mission

Announcements for October 3-10, 2021

October 3 is Bethel College Fall Fest Sunday. This year there will be no worship service on October 3 at BCMC. There will be a worship service at the Bethel College Memorial Hall at 10 a.m. Everyone is welcome to attend. The service will also be live-streamed.
Here is the link for Fall Fest Worship: https://youtu.be/CNRbAKxtx44.
It will be set to go live on Sunday, October 3 at 10am.

The next week at BCMC Monday, October 4
8 am to 10 am Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2 pm to 3 pm    Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
Tuesday, October 5
9 to 11 am Community Playschool in church basement
Wednesday, October 6
8 am to 10 am Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2 pm to 3 pm    Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
7 pm   Wednesday Night Club
7 pm   Youth Group in Room 24
Thursday, October 7
9-11 am Community Playschool
7 pm Church Board Meeting by Zoom
Friday, October 8
8 am to 10 am  Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2 pm to 3 pm    Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
Saturday, October 9–No events in church
Sunday, October 10
9:30 am Worship Service
10:30 am Faith Formation

Staff Absence: Monica Lichti will be on vacation from October 4-15. During this time the office will be closed on Mondays and open mornings only Tuesday through Friday.

As Anabaptists, we believe the church is a “priesthood of all believers.” Exercise your “priestly” function by expressing your appreciation and gratitude to all who are involved in our congregation for what they do. During this time of health and safety protocols, national tensions, and difficult issues in the church, everyone is under more stress. This is especially true for our pastors, employees, those in leadership, and others. Expressions of care and appreciation for each other can strengthen our bond and give each of us strength to reach out to others. Pray for each other. Names of those in leadership positions are listed in the BCMC Directory.
– Deacons Commission

2021 BCMC Directory
The 2021 BCMC Directory is in your mailboxes here at the church.
Add to it this new phone number for Arlo Kasper. 620-951-1800

Exploring the Parables…is our worship focus through Nov 14. If you’d like to read ahead in preparation for worship, here’s where we are headed:

Oct 10 (World Communion): Matthew 22:1-14 – The wedding banquet
Oct 17: Luke 10:25-37 – The Good Samaritan
Oct 24: Luke 15:11-32 – The Prodigal Son
Oct 31: Luke 16:19-31 – The rich man and Lazarus
Nov 7: Matt. 13:44-46 – Treasure hidden in a field; The pearl of great price
Nov 14: Matthew 13:33 – The Leaven

The Staff Congregation Relations Committee extends a heartfelt THANK YOU to Barbara Thiesen in recognition of her years of service to the congregation in her role as Music Coordinator. Barbara has decided to step down from this role effective October 31, 2021. Her work in this role will be greatly missed.

If you or someone you know might be interested in filling the role of Music Coordinator for the congregation, please reach out to Heather Zerger (SCRC Chair) or Dawn Yoder Harms. Generally, duties include scheduling pianists and organists for Sunday worship, coordinating (but not directing) youth and adult bell and vocal choirs, caring for the church’s musical instruments, scheduling special musicians as needed, and other responsibilities. A copy of the current job description is available from the Church Office or from Dawn or Heather. A small monthly stipend is included in the annual budget for this position.

Jazz and Charcuterie on the Lawn
The Sr High Youth Group will be hosting an evening of Jazz and Charcuterie on the Lawn on October 10th to raise funds for their 2022 Summer Trip. We invite you to enjoy an hour of Jazz music by Icy Tea Jazz (a jazz trio) from 5:30-6:30pm (bring your own chairs or blankets to sit on) while enjoying desserts and flavored lemonade. The October 10th event will be outside on the lawn of the Bethel College Goerz House (2512 College Ave). Feel free to invite friends, family, college host students, or others to this event!
If you cannot stay for the jazz music but ordered a charcuterie box, you may pick it up on October 10th between 5-7 pm.

It’s time to start thinking about pumpkins and bonfires! Faith Formation Commission would like to invite families and mentor/mentee pairs to spend some time at P&M Pumpkin Patch on October 17. We have the Cedar campfire site reserved from 4:00-7:00 pm. Hot dogs and smore’s will be provided. Please email Mary Ellen Hodge at hodge_mar@yahoo.com and give her the contact person’s name and the number of people in your party by October 10. You will be asked to give your name at the admissions window when you arrive.

Budget update
As of the end of August 2021, expenses exceed contributions by $28,500.69. Contributions received stand at 57% of the amount expected for the year, and expenses are at 63% of the budget. Please keep this information in mind as we begin the final third of the year.

Everence to host informative webinars in October
Beginning Tuesday, Oct. 5, Everence Financial^® will host three informative webinars. Topics include Making Medicare an easy step, Maximizing your year-end giving and Estate planning basics. The online events are free. To register, or for more information, visit www.everence.com/kansas or contact the Everence office at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294, or central.kansas@everence.com.
Advisory services offered through Concourse Financial Group Advisors, a division of Concourse Financial Group Securities, a Registered Investment Advisor. Securities offered through Concourse Financial Group Securities, a registered broker-dealer and member of FINRA and SIPC. Investments and other products are not NCUA or otherwise federally insured, may involve loss of principal and have no credit union guarantee.
Products and services offered through Everence Trust Company and other Everence entities are independent of and are not guaranteed or endorsed by Concourse Financial Group Securities,
or its affiliates.

Bethel College Announcements
The 2021 Worship and the Arts Symposium at Bethel College, “Joining Voices Together,” originally scheduled for Nov. 5-8, has been postponed due to COVID precautions. The symposium will be rescheduled for fall 2022, with a new date to be announced soon. The “Voices Together” art exhibition will still take place as planned, with original artwork from the Voices Together hymnal on display Oct. 29-Nov. 19 in the Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center on campus.

Weds., Oct. 6 – Bethel College Wind Ensemble concert, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors regardless of vaccination status.

In the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College: “Roots and Wings: Our Gift from Mother Nature,” a group exhibition by the Springdale Art & Nature Center of Halstead, featuring sculpture by Beth Vannatta, through Oct. 22. Gallery hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Fri., Sun, 2-4 p.m. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors regardless of vaccination status.

Kidron Bethel Village in North Newton and Friends of Kidron will host its annual Country Breakfast on Saturday, October 2, from 7:30 to 9 a.m. This year’s event will be a drive-thru with to-go pick up for the menu of breakfast burritos and fruit. Pull up to the front door at 3001 Ivy Drive and breakfast will be delivered to your vehicle! Free will donations will support Friends of Kidron and the Health Care Benevolent Fund.

Kauffman Museum Living Endowment Dinner
Please SAVE the DATE for the KAUFFMAN MUSEUM annual LIVING ENDOWMENT DINNER
on SATURDAY, OCT. 23.
• Due to continued health concerns associated with the Delta variant we will host a pick-up/drive-by/delivered fall fundraising meal.
• The museum will again collaborate with Elderslie Farm of Kechi to bring you a locally sourced meal.
• In anticipation of the spring museum exhibit celebrating 125 years of a museum on the Bethel College campus (now Kauffman Museum!), the dinner will reflect menus of 1896 when the museum first opened.
• Reservations = $125 per person. (Get it?)
• Watch for an invitation in the United States mail and instructions for online reservations later in September.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS, TELL YOUR FRIENDS, AND PLAN TO MAKE RESERVATIONS!

Mennonite Central Committee in North Newton currently has over 800 sets of comforter tops and backs that need to be tied, as well as kits of fabric that can be sewn into more tops. MCC’s partners all around the world value these handmade comforters as useful, beautiful and tangible expressions of love. If you or your sewing group would be interested in tying or sewing for MCC, or if you have questions and are curious about how to make a comforter, please contact Kate Mast at the MCC Material Resources Center at katemast@mcc.org, or 316-283-2720.

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website at https://mennowdc.org/ to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation! See especially:

Announcements:
–2021 Bethel College Worship and Arts Symposium Postponed
–Resourcing Event for WDC Ministers -Nov 13
–WDC Final Thursday Book Discussion -Oct 28
–Annual IBA Benefit Burrito Sale Details
–WDC Prayer Requests for October 2021
–WDC Hope Fund
–Mennonite Church USA Announcements
–Mennonite Education Agency October Prayer Requests

Stories:
–What does it mean to be a Conference? by Heidi Regier Kreider

Come hear the Paradizo Choir of Amani Community Church, Wichita, at Hesston Mennonite Church on Sunday, October 10, 4 pm. The choir is sharing the Benefit Concert for the Amani Building Fund toward an initial goal of raising $50,000. Translation of Swahili-language songs will be projected in English. YouTube videos of the Choir may be found under Amani Community Church. See the poster on the church bulletin board.

Fall 2021 issue of Intersections: MCC Theory and Practice Quarterly is available now on-line here and here. The issue’s theme is “MCC and National Socialism.” Typical issues of Intersections examine MCC’s current work. In contrast, this fall 2021 issue of Intersections has an historical focus, with twelve historians from Canada, the U.S., Germany, France, and the Netherlands examining different aspects of how MCC’s humanitarian efforts before, during, and after the Second World War were entangled with National Socialism and its legacy. As the articles in this issue reflect, this history was complicated, ambiguous, and difficult.
The downloadable pdf of this issue can be found here.
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

Camp Mennoscah Announcements
Summer is practically tomorrow (plus 8 months)! Camp Mennoscah will be recruiting for 2022 summer staff on Nov. 8 at Hesston, Nov. 9 at Tabor, and November 10 at Bethel College with other Mennonite Camping Association camps. Tables are usually outside or near the cafeteria. We’ll be there from mid-morning through lunch.

Other events and happenings:

Fall Fun Volunteer Day! Saturday, October 9, is a Work & Play Day for all ages. Come with your friends, your kids or grandkids and even your own work group! Let us know you’re coming by Oct. 6 so we have the best projects for your skills at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org. Please bring your water bottle and a sack lunch. Mask and distance at your own comfort level. Meet at the maintenance shed by the red apartment at 8:30am. Stick around afterwards for one last kayak or canoe ride or a hike around camp!
The dam at Camp Mennoscah will be removed on October 17! The fun will begin at approximately 2pm. All are welcome to help with removing and cleaning the boards or simply to watch. The dam will be removed whatever the weather, unless deemed dangerous. Contact Camp Mennoscah if you have questions.
Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat, November 5-7, at Camp Mennoscah! Register at www.campmennoscah.org! There is only one Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat. Lodging will be in the Retreat Center and cropping/crafting will be in the Main Camp dining hall. Space heaters will be available for both areas since the repairs for the furnaces will not be complete by the beginning of November. Fees for the Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat have increased to $150 to meet higher costs and the use of multiple facilities. There is an option to receive up to $25 in scholarship funds per person as part of the registration process.
Thank you for granting wishes! We are grateful for the recent donations of items off the Wish List. Thank you! The list has more wishes and there are more projects to do. We can accommodate every group size, skill set and length of project you would like to tackle. Check out these ways to Get Involved! Email office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to volunteer. See the Wish List for other ways to support Camp Mennoscah!
We need help mowing and burning brush piles! The grass that is usually cut short is doing its best to compete with the tallgrass prairie in height. Volunteer to mow (with a riding lawn mower) for whatever length of time you can offer or grab a string trimmer to chase back those wily weeds. Or get a group together and schedule a day to burn (wind speed permitting) –we’ll keep trying until a day works! Contact Camp Mennoscah at office@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.
Camp Mennoscah has openings for a part-time custodial/housekeeping position (10 hours) and a part-time office/administrative position (30 hours with benefits). Some of the office/administrative tasks can be done from home. Contact Olivia at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for more information.
Camp Mennoscah is seeking a full-time Director of Development, Marketing & Communications to lead our ongoing operational and advancement needs. This position reports directly to the Board of Directors while taking directive from the Executive Director when related to operational considerations. As a member of a small, very hands-on staff, the role is expected to be highly collaborative. This professional must embrace the mission of Camp Mennoscah, have an established background in coordinating nonprofit donation strategies, possess strong written, interpersonal, leadership and relationship building skills, and work as an independent contributor with good organization and follow-through. Most of the work will commence off campus, however some in-person time at camp is required.
This role involves organizing broad-based fundraising initiatives, advocating for Camp Mennoscah through speaking engagements, promotional materials, and social media, as well as recruiting volunteers, and building relationships with board members, donors and staff.
Our ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree, a minimum of five years of fund development experience, or equivalent experience in church relations, and a passion for Camp Mennoscah. They should also be familiar with office related applications, and other technology used for communication and social media. Experience with CampBrain and the associated donor database is a plus.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled and early submission is encouraged. Please send application materials (resume, cover letter, references and salary requirements) to campmennojobs@att.net.

For Mennonite Mission Network Service Adventure press here

For Mennonite Creation Care Network Newsletter press here

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Hesston College Events

     Fall Cultures Fair – October 4, 6:00 p.m.
Hesston Mennonite Church Community Center
The campus boasts students from 25 countries and the United States – many of whom will be sharing their hearts through food, games, dance, vocal and
instrumental music. This is a family friendly event and open to the public.DyckArboretum 40th Anniversary Celebration Picnic  – October 10, 4:00 p.m .
  177 W. Hickory St., Hesston
Come celebrate 40 years of the Dyck Arboretum! BBQ-style meal provided,
including the Dyck Family Birthday Banana Cake with Ice Cream, music by The
Flannelbacks, family portraits available and one free tree per household.

Herm and Vince Tour Concert – October 16, 6:00 p.m.
Dyck Arboretum of the Plains
Sponsored by Hesston College. Free outdoor concert (donations welcomed). Bring a lawn chair.

Bel Canto Singers Fall Concert – October 24, 2:00 p.m.
Hesston Mennonite Church

Music Department Recital – October 28, 4:00 p.m.
Hesston Mennonite Church

Sunflower Performing Arts: Sunflower Soiree – October 31, 3:00 p.m.
Hesston Mennonite Church

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Alisha, Josh and Asher (5) Garber of Mennonite Mission Network have moved into the newly renovated Barcelona Anabaptist Center, which now houses 16 residents. Pray that the center will encourage solidarity in their neighborhood and that the Garbers will model servant leadership in Catalonia (a region where allegiance to Spain vies with voices calling for independence).

Mennonite Church USA
Let your voice be heard by taking part in our denomination-wide survey. Your responses will help Mennonite Church USA better serve the needs of its members. Take the survey here. MennoniteUSA.org/member-survey En español: MennoniteUSA.org/member-survey-espanol [Download slide here]

Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of Poverty
Mennonite Church USA (MC USA) invites you to engage in its “Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of Poverty” initiative. Throughout September and October, MC USA is offering stories, blogs, prayers and resources to encourage you to learn about the impact of poverty, to pray for economic justice and to join in mutual aid and advocacy work. Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/news/lpj-poverty

Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of Poverty
To kick off Mennonite Church USA’s “Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of Poverty” initiative, Bert Newton asks, “Who owns the land?” From a theological perspective, Newton dives into God’s ownership of the land and what that should mean for housing equality. Read his blog here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/owns-land

Menno Snapshots
In the wake of the tragic earthquake that hit Haiti and the traumatic civil and political distress in Afghanistan, you are invited to join Mennonite Church USA in prayer for all people who call these countries home. Read the prayer for Haiti and Afghanistan here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/prayer-haiti-afghanistan

Bethel College Mennonite Church

A congregation of Mennonite Church USA in North Newton, Kansas

Author Archives: Monica Lichti

Announcements for November 21-28, 2021

Worship Service–November 14, 2021

Announcements for November 14-21, 2021

Worship Service–November 7, 2021

Announcements for November 7-14, 2021

WORSHIP SERVICE FOR October 31, 2021–––YOU WILL HAVE TO PRESS READ MORE TO SEE THE LINK

Announcements for October 31-November 7, 2021

WORSHIP SERVICE FOR October 24, 2021–––YOU WILL HAVE TO PRESS READ MORE TO SEE THE LINK

Announcements for October 24-31, 2021

Announcements for October 3-10, 2021