BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH March 6, 2022 Lent 1: From security to generosity
Prelude—Blessed Jesus, at Thy Word (Manz and Rhosymedre – Vaughn Williams)—Verlene Garber, organ
Introit—Calm me Lord [VT 680]—Chancel Choir; director William Eash; accompanist Verlene Garber
Lighting the Christ Candle—Raylene Hinz-Penner
Land Acknowledgement
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. and find new paths of right relationships with them and all of creation.
Worship Music—God so Loved the World (Stainer)—Chancel Choir
Scripture Reading—Luke 4:1-13—Carol Flickinger
Sermon—Found in the Wilderness—Janeen Bertsche Johnson
*Hymn—Fill Us with Your Feast—VT 309
Communion—Renee Reimer and Todd Schlosser
Prayers of God’s people—Raylene Hinz-Penner
*Hymn—We, Your People, Sing Your Praises—VT 849
*Benediction—Janeen Bertsche Johnson
Benediction Response—We are Often Tossed and Driven [VT 311]—Chancel Choir
Postlude—Trumpet Tune (Johnson)—Verlene Garber
VT = Voices Together
Audio visual—Ken Lamp Pastors—Renee Reimer, Nathan Koontz, and Todd Schlosser
Janeen Bertsche Johnson from Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary (AMBS) joins BCMC for worship this Sunday. Janeen will share about AMBS during the kinship time and offers the morning sermon on this upcoming first Sunday of Lent. The following is from her short biography on the AMBS website.
“Janeen brings to her ministry a passion for worship, music, community, and encouraging the gifts of others. She graduated from Bluffton College (now University), then entered seminary at AMBS, graduating with the MDiv in 1989.
After serving six years on the pastoral team of Lorraine Avenue Mennonite Church in Wichita, KS., she returned to AMBS as campus pastor. She also has roles in admissions, alumni relations, and teaching. Janeen has been a member of the Executive Board of Mennonite Church USA from 2003 to 2011, and has served on many other conference and denominational committees and boards.”
March 6, 2022-First Sunday in Lent Masks will be required. We encourage you to wear your name tags so Pastor Todd Schlosser can learn to know you. The service will also be live streamed.
To livestream the worship service: On Sunday morning, around 9:20, go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen,which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box belows that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. Anytime after the service concludes, you can watch a recording of the service at your convenience by clicking the same green LIVE STREAM button. Again, you will probably have to go to the gray box that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. That will transfer you to the BCMC YouTube Channel. You will have to click on the tab “Videos” to see all of the BCMC videos. Click the red button to see the bulletin/order of service.
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH March 6, 2022 Lent 1: From security to generosity Prelude—Blessed Jesus, at Thy Word (Manz) Rhosymedre (Vaughn Williams)—Verlene Garber, organ Introit—Calm me Lord [VT 680]—Chancel Choir; director William Eash; accompanist Verlene Garber Lighting the Christ Candle—Raylene Hinz-Penner
Land Acknowledgement 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. Welcome and Prayer *Hymn—Holy Spirit, Come with Power— VT 57
Kin-dom Report—Janeen Bertsche Johnson
Children’s Conversation—Bethany Schrag, Jill Robb, Yolanda Kauffman Worship Music—God so Loved the World (Stainer)—Chancel Choir
Scripture Reading—Luke 4:1-13—Carol Flickinger Sermon—Found in the Wilderness—Janeen Bertsche Johnson
*Hymn—Fill Us with Your Feast—VT 309 Communion—Renee Reimer and Todd Schlosser
Prayers of God’s people—Raylene Hinz-Penner
*Hymn—We, Your People, Sing Your Praises—VT 849 Benediction Response—We are Often Tossed and Driven [VT 311]—Chancel Choir
Postlude—Trumpet Tune (Johnson)—Verlene Garber
VT = Voices Together Audio visual—Ken Lamp Pastors—Renee Reimer, Nathan Koontz, and Todd Schlosser
Janeen Bertsche Johnson (Director of Campus Ministries; Admission Associate; Development Associate; Alumni Director; Core Adjunct Faculty) from Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary (AMBS) joins BCMC for worship this Sunday. Janeen will share about AMBS during the kinship time and offers the morning sermon on this upcoming first Sunday of Lent. The following is from her short biography on the AMBS website. “Janeen brings to her ministry a passion for worship, music, community, and encouraging the gifts of others. She graduated from Bluffton College (now University), then entered seminary at AMBS, graduating with the MDiv in 1989. After serving six years on the pastoral team of Lorraine Avenue Mennonite Church in Wichita, KS., she returned to AMBS as campus pastor. She also has roles in admissions, alumni relations, and teaching. Janeen has been a member of the Executive Board of Mennonite Church USA from 2003 to 2011, and has served on many other conference and denominational committees and boards.”
You are invited to a discussion: “Land Acknowledgement: Then What?” Sunday, March 6, after the Worship Service in the sanctuary. Hosted by Raylene Hinz-Penner, Karin Kaufman Wall, Florence Schloneger and Nathan Koontz. In February Florence described a land acknowledgement as a reminder, a call, a recognition, a desire to seek out those harmed in acts of restorative justice. Nikki Sanchez speaks to those of us who are part of the settler legacy: where you find yourself today may not be your fault, but it is absolutely your responsibility (response-ability). If thinking about the land acknowledgement read each first Sunday of the month at BCMC has led you to wish to talk to other seekers, join us for an open discussion, sharing questions, responses, ideas, and ways to move forward.
This week at BCMC (Times and events can change, please look for emails with possible changes)Sunday, March 6—1st Sunday in Lent 9:30 am Worship Service (in person and live streamed) After the worship service there will be a Land Acknowledgement Discussion in the sanctuary 10:30 am Children and Youth Sunday School Classes! Circles of Grace will be offered to children and youth during their in-person Sunday School hour , today, March 6. Preschoolers – Room B4 Middlers (3rd-8th graders) – Room 26 High School – Room 24 Koinonia (college students welcome!) – The Agape House The Agape Class will meet in Room B8 Adult Classes (If meeting): Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Mosaic (Rm 20); Open Circle (Room 21); Seekers (Rm 28); Sojourners (Chapel) Tuesday, March 8, 2022 9—11 am Community Playschool 12 noon Mid Kansas Investment Club meeting in Fellowship Hall 4 pm Lent Prayers by Zoom Wednesday, March 9, 2022 4:30 pm Visual Arts Committee meeting in Room 14 7 pm Youth Group 7:30 pm Chancel Choir in the Sanctuary Thursday, March 10, 2022 9—11 am Community Playschool 4 pm Lent Prayers by Zoom 6:15 pm Chancel Bells in Room B7 7 pm Finance Committee meeting by Zoom Sunday, March 13—2nd Sunday of Lent—Daylight Savings Time Begins—Set your clocks forward one hour 9:30 am Worship Service (in person and live streamed) 10:30 am Children and Youth Sunday School
Lent Prayers Pastoral staff at BCMC will be facilitating prayers during lent on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at 4 pm. This is a time to take a break from the day and let evening come. We will pray together via Zoom for about 15-20 minutes using the daily prayer book from the Corrymeela Community, northern Ireland’s longest running peace and reconciliation organization: Daily Prayer with the Corrymeela Community by Padraig O Tuama.Prayers will be March 8 and 10. Below is the link for our lent prayers via zoom using Daily Prayer with the Corrymeela Community as our guide. This same link should work for each prayer time. We are looking forward to connecting and praying together!
Bethel College Mennonite Church is inviting you to a lent prayer Zoom meeting on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4.
We offer sympathy to Glen and Karen Ediger and their family on the death of Glen’s sister-in-law, Linda Ediger, February 28, McPherson, Kansas. Linda was the wife of Glen’s brother, LaVon Ediger. A memorial service has been scheduled for Friday, March 4, in McPherson.
Wednesday Night Club (open to 3rd-8th graders) will begin Wednesday, March 23 from 7-8pm and continue weekly through the end of April. Look for more information from club leaders in the coming weeks.
Sign Up now for BCMC Pictorial Directory!
Our church directory won’t be complete without your participation. You can still sign-up March 23, 24, 25, and 26. ANYONE who wants to be included in the BCMC Photo Directory is welcomed to participate. Official membership is NOT required. If you want to be included in the BCMC community, shine up that smile!
All photography sessions will be held in Fellowship Hall, March 23, 24, 25, and 26. The photo sessions on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday will run from 2:00 to 8:30 pm and on Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm.
Please note this change: There will be same day proofing of pictures. You will have a professional photography session, and afterwards be able to view your proofs and have the opportunity to purchase extra portraits for family and friends.
Three options for making an appointment March 23, 24, 25, or 26: 1. Click on the link below and make your appointment yourself on-line https://instant-scheduling.com/sch.php?kn=3534502&typId=63985&step=2 2. Call Doris Whillock at (316) 283-5561 to set up your appointment date 3. Sign up before or after the worship service on Sunday (when in-person worship resumes) Make an appointment to have your picture taken today. Every family photographed for the directory will receive a copy of the directory and an 8×10 portrait at no cost. So please, sign-up today!
Library Announcement A couple of beautiful 2000 piece puzzles have been donated to the library. The committee has decided to use them as a small fundraiser to help buy books on our wish list. The puzzles will be outside the library on Sundays. If you choose to buy one, we are asking for a minimum donation of $5. Just hand your donation to the librarian on duty.
Also, several books that were checked out right before COVID and the shutdown have not been returned or were not checked out properly. If you recognize a title that you might have checked out, please double check your own books to make sure that you haven’t inadvertently forgotten to return it. Titles that we are missing are: The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth Speare The Minor Adjustment Beauty Salon by Alexander McCall Smith The Wounded Healer by Henri J. M. Nouwen Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown Ida and Martha by Sara Fretz Goering The Time is Now by Joan Chittister Option B by Sheryl Sandberg
Please continue to use or come in and check out our wonderful library. We appreciate your support.
BETHEL COLLEGE ANNOUNCEMENTS
NOTE: Bethel College is on spring break March 5-13. Most offices and services are open but some may be on reduced hours.
(Sun., March 6) – Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum program, Reinhild K. Janzen, “Ritual Markers of Life and Death in Uganda and Taiwan,” 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum auditorium. This program is associated with the current special exhibit marking 125 years of Kauffman Museum, and Janzen will be talking about items included in the exhibit. Current Bethel COVID protocols require face coverings to be worn indoors regardless of vaccination status.
Sun., March 20 – Bethel College’s Staley Lecture Series presents Karen González, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel. González is the author of The God Who Sees: Immigrants, the Bible and the Journey to Belong (Herald Press, 2019). She will also speak in Bethel College’s convocation on Mon., March 21, 11 a.m., Memorial Hall.
Save the date: March 25-27, spring musical at Bethel College, Bright Star by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell (for mature audiences).
HESSTON COLLEGE ANNOUNCMENT Spring musical: James and the Giant Peach – March 2 to 6, Black Box Theater, Keim Center The musical, based on Roald Dahl’s 1961 children’s book, traces the life of the orphan, James Trotter. When he leaves the orphanage to live with his two horrible aunts, he soon discovers a peach growing outside their home and ventures inside of it to befriend five insects. Through a series of odd adventures, James gains an unexpected, unconventional understanding of what it means to be a family. Info and tickets at hesston.edu/theatre.
For a pdf of the Newton Et Cetera Shop’s Local Giving Grants press here
Kidron Bethel Village invites you to share notes of dedication and prayer for the new chapel and classroom spaces that are currently being constructed as a part of the Live Forward capital project. We welcome a written or emailed response as we honor these new spaces and look forward to using them in the near future. Please submit your words of dedication by Friday, March 25, so they can be written and/or attached to the walls and framing meant to be left as a symbolic “blessing” of the space.
There will also be a collection box at the Kidron Bethel Village welcome desk.
Notes can be signed or anonymous and will not be shared with others.
For Kidron Bethel Village residents, there will be a service to participate in this way on Wednesday, March 23. The service will focus on the building project and will invite people to write/share prayers and dedications. The schedule for the day will be as follows: 2 p.m. in assisted living, 3 p.m. in health care, and 4 p.m. for independent living. More information will be shared with residents as we get closer to this date.
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation!
CAMP MENNOSCAH ANNOUNCEMENTS
Youth Volunteer Weekend is April 9-10! This weekend of service and worship for grades 6-12 returns with vigor. Start your weekend of fun on Saturday at the MCC Sale in Hutchinson (on your own or with your youth group) and then bring the fun with you to Camp Mennoscah in the afternoon.Register at www.campmennoscah.org! (Registration is under Summer Camps.) Keep looking for more information available soon.
Other events and happenings:
Kitchen helpersneeded for Summer Youth Camps! Your time and skill give campers a week of growing in Christian fellowship and experiencing God’s great creation. Cooks need only willing hands and the ability to follow directions. Kitchen staff is needed for June 19-23, July 3-9 and July 17-23. Contact us at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org.
Summer Youth Camp Registration Open! Register now for your week of faith, friends, and gobs of fun! The theme of “What’s in a Name?” focuses on how God knows us beyond any name we may be called. While we hope for a summer with minimal restrictions, the pandemic may change by June and camp guidelines will change with it. Register at www.campmennoscah.org!
Getting ready for outside fun! Camp Mennoscah needs to replace some outdoor sports equipment, including inner tubes, 4-square/Gaga balls, frisbees for ultimate, and inner tubes. Check out the Camp Mennoscah Wish List on amazon.com or the Wish List. Challenge your Sunday School class or youth group to help meet camp needs! We’ve got many more ideas. Contact us by replying to this email.
MENNONITE CENTRAL COMMITTEE KANSAS RELIEF SALE ANNOUNCEMENTS April 2 – Bohnne Berroggi making, Moundridge March 26 – Verenike Making, Hillsboro April 8 – 9 – MCC Sale
KMRS’s purpose is to raise funds for Mennonite Central Committee (www.mcc.org). It takes a whole host of individuals playing their part in order that we might carry out the Lord’s bidding to care for the “least of these” found in Matt. 25. We call upon our supporting churches to donate toward the sale budget so that every dollar raised at the sale is donated to MCC. We call upon quilters to complete their quilts and to gather extra supplies to donate to Quilters’ Corner. Consider donating items to the General, Silent and even our Kid’s Auction. During the cool winter months, divide house plants and start vegetable plants to sell at Plants &Things and tea towel sets completed for Kansas Crafts. Challenge yourself to participate in the Run for Relief, a 5K run/walk the Saturday of the sale and spend the winter months gathering your pledges. Go to: www.kansas.mccsale.org or like us on Facebook at Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale.
Respond to the crisis in Ukraine Mennonite Central Committee will be responding to the crisis in Ukraine through its local partners. Russian military forces have invaded the country with missiles striking major cities and casualties continuing to grow. Your prayers and donations will help partners scale up their work providing relief and trauma healing for vulnerable and displaced people. “Ukraine is experiencing major upheaval, but our partners have supplies ready to help vulnerable and displaced people,” says Rebecca Hessenauer, MCC representative for Ukraine. Donate today at mcc.org/Ukraine Here is a link to a brand new MCC video that is a prayer for Ukraine: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mK3VDDSQzJk
For Mennonite Creation Care Network Newsletter press here For Mennonite Creation Care Network correct link for spruce beetle story press here For Mennonite World Conference Info press here For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here
Mennonite Education Agency of Mennonite Church USA has released its free Lent at Home 2022 worship guide and calendar for download. The annual guide provides options for individuals and households to follow daily or weekly rituals, which include guided Scripture readings, prayers and special activities for the Lenten season. Download it here: mennoniteusa.org/lentathome. [Download PPT slide here.]
Learn about the Accessibility Resolution that will be voted on at the Mennonite Church USA (MC USA) Special Session of the Delegate Assembly, May 27-30. Clare Krabill, COO of MHS (an agency of MC USA), and Jeanne Davies, executive director of Anabaptist Disabilities Network, will discuss this resolution during a webinar on March 7 at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT. Se ofrecerá servicio de intérprete al español. Register today: mennoniteusa.org/webinar-accessibility
Registration is open for Mennonite Church USA’s Special Session of the Delegate Assembly, May 27-30, 2022, in Kansas City, Missouri. Lodging information will be included in the registration confirmation email. To register and for all other information related to the Special Session, visit mennoniteusa.org/special-delegate-session-22/ [Download PPT slide here.]
Menno Snapshots Katie Graber and Anneli Loepp Thiessen of the Voices Together hymnal project discuss why representation matters in music and how churches can be intentional about singing with the voices that have been missing from published worship collections for too long. Read their blog, “Who writes the songs?” here: mennoniteusa.org/who-writes
Record your family’s births, marriages and deaths for free, using Mennonite Church USA Archives’ vital records form on the Archives home page here: mennoniteusa.org/historical-archives/
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network praises God for the safety of its personnel and partners in Burkina Faso during January’s coup d’état. Pray for peace, both on the national level and in the increasing number of communities impacted by Islamist militant violence. May Mennonite churches witness to God’s peace. Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC congregational delegates planning to attend the special session of MC USA assembly in May, and for the Holy Spirit’s guidance in this week’s zoom forum hosted by WDC in preparation for the assembly.
The Bethel College Mennonite Church Peace Garden is getting a makeover with some landscape work in the area adjacent to the columbarium on the west side of the church building. The Peace Garden also has a new sign. Photo by Duane Friesen, Peace Garden Care Committee
Lent Prayers Pastoral staff at BCMC will be facilitating prayers during lent on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at 4 pm. This is a time to take a break from the day and let evening come. We will pray together via Zoom for about 15-20 minutes using the daily prayer book from the Corrymeela Community, northern Ireland’s longest running peace and reconciliation organization: Daily Prayer with the Corrymeela Community by Padraig O Tuama. Please contact Pastor Nathan if you would like to receive the Zoom link. Purchase of the prayer book will be helpful, but is not necessary. Prayers will begin on Thursday, March 3.
You can find the BCMC Lent 2022 Devotional by pressing here
This week at BCMC Sunday, February 27 9:30 am Worship Service (in person and live streamed) 10:30 am Children and Youth Sunday School Classes! Circles of Grace will be offered to children and youth during their in-person Sunday School hour on February 27 and March 6 Preschoolers – Room B4 Middlers (3rd-8th graders) – Room 26 High School – Room 24 Koinonia (college students welcome!) – The Agape House The Agape Class will meet in Room B8 Adult Classes (If meeting): Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Mosaic (Rm 20); Open Circle (Room 21); Seekers (Rm 28); Sojourners (Chapel) 2-4 pm BookReviews Reception for Vern Preheim in Fellowship Hall BookReviews Recognition for Vern Preheim You are invited to a come and go reception for Vern Preheim who has retired from BookReviews. This event to recognize Vern’s contributions to BookReviews will be Sunday, February 27 from 2 to 4 pm in the Bethel College Mennonite Church Fellowship Hall.
Monday, February 28, 2022 7 pm Facilities Committee meeting in Fellowship Hall Tuesday, March 1, 2022 9—11 am Community Playschool Wednesday, March 2, 2022–Ash Wednesday 7 pm Ash Wednesday Service—in the sanctuary and live streamed 7 pm Youth Group 7:45 pm Chancel Choir in the Sanctuary Thursday, March 3 2022 9—11 am Community Playschool 4 pm Lent Prayers by Zoom 6:15 pm Chancel Bells in Room B7 7 pm Church Board Meeting Friday-Saturday March 4 & 5 Sunday, March 6—1st Sunday of Lent 9:30 am Worship Service (in person and live streamed) After the worship service there will be a Land Acknowledgement Discussion in the sanctuary 10:30 am Children and Youth Sunday School
BCMC Pictorial Directory An additional day has been added to the available photography sessions. Now you can sign up March 23, 24, 25, and 26. ANYONE who wants to be included in the BCMC Photo Directory is welcomed to participate. Official membership is NOT required. If you want to be included in the BCMC community, shine up that smile! All photography sessions will be held in Fellowship Hall, March 23, 24, 25, and 26. The photo sessions on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday will run from 2:00 to 8:30 pm and on Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm. When you sign-up for an appointment, you will have a professional photography session, schedule a ZOOM meeting to see your proofs on computer at a later date where you’ll have the opportunity to purchase extra portraits for family and friends. A computer will be available at the church, along with assistance, to hold the scheduled ZOOM meeting for those Individuals that do not have computer access. Three options for making an appointment March 24, 25, or 26: 1. Click on the link below and make your appointment yourself on-line https://instant-scheduling.com/sch.php?kn=3534502&typId=63985&step=2 2. Call Doris Whillock at (316) 283-5561 to set up your appointment date 3. Sign up before or after the worship service on Sunday (when in-person worship resumes) Make an appointment to have your picture taken today. Every family photographed for the directory will receive a copy of the directory and an 8×10 portrait at no cost. So please, sign-up today!
Pastoral and Congregational Transition In an effort to show transparency, the Church Board of the Bethel College Mennonite Church would like to update the congregation on the process surrounding this time of pastoral and congregational transition. After several conversations with Western District Conference Associate Conference Minister Kathy Neufeld Dunn, the church board is in the process of seeking out a consultant who might help us better understand the needs of our congregation. Our hope is to learn more about who and where we are as a congregation so that as we move forward with the process of calling our next pastor(s), the congregation and church board are able to have a clear set of expectations for potential candidates.
At this time, we are not naming a pastoral search committee; rather, we will work through the consulting process first in order to establish priorities and direction. As we move forward, the church board will continue to update and involve the congregation along the way, seeking input and guidance as we proceed. We ask for your prayers that, in this time of transition, the BCMC congregation is able to find clarity and direction in the work that is yet to come – so that we may continue to follow Jesus in doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.
Delegates for MSUSA Special Assembly…We are currently seeking one or two additional delegates to attend the upcoming MCUSA Special Delegate Assembly, May 27-30, 2022 in Kansas City, on behalf of BCMC. Currently four resolutions are being addressed including MCUSA Membership guidelines, MCUSA justice resolution, MCUSA accessibility resolution, and the resolution for repentance and transformation. If you are interested or have questions please contact Dale Shrag (Gift Discernment Committee) or any of the pastors.
“Land Acknowledgement: Then What?” You are invited to a discussion: “Land Acknowledgement: Then What?” Sunday morning, March 6 after the Worship Service in the sanctuary. Hosted by Raylene Hinz-Penner, Karin Kaufman Wall, Florence Schloneger and Nathan Koontz. In February Florence described a land acknowledgement as a reminder, a call, a recognition, a desire to seek out those harmed in acts of restorative justice. Nikki Sanchez speaks to those of us who are part of the settler legacy: where you find yourself today may not be your fault, but it is absolutely your responsibility (response-ability). If thinking about the land acknowledgement read each first Sunday of the month at BCMC has led you to wish to talk to other seekers, join us for an open discussion, sharing questions, responses, ideas, and ways to move forward.
BETHEL COLLEGE ANNOUNCEMENTS Sun., Feb. 27 – Junior recital by Bethel College student Julianna Schrag, soprano, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel. Current Bethel COVID protocol requires face coverings to be worn indoors regardless of vaccination status.
Mon., Feb. 28 – Bethel College Wind Ensemble concert under the direction of Joel Boettger, 7 p.m., featuring works by Erickson, Ticheli, Mackey, Standridge and Sousa; Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Current Bethel COVID protocol requires face coverings to be worn indoors regardless of vaccination status; livestream option available on Bethel’s YouTube channel.
Fri., March 4 – Bethel College presents the 2nd Annual Ada Schmidt-Tieszen Lecture with Dr. Rebecca Thomas, professor and director for international social work studies at the University of Connecticut’s School of Social Work, 11 a.m., Memorial Hall. Face coverings must be worn indoors regardless of vaccination status; livestream option available on Bethel’s YouTube channel.
Sat., March 5 – 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).
Sun., March 6 – Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum program, Reinhild K. Janzen, “Ritual Markers of Life and Death in Uganda and Taiwan,” 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum auditorium. This program is associated with the current special exhibit marking 125 years of Kauffman Museum, and Janzen will be talking about items included in the exhibit. Current Bethel COVID protocol requires face coverings to be worn indoors regardless of vaccination status.
HESSTON COLLEGE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Spring musical: James and the Giant Peach – March 2 to 6, Black Box Theater, Keim Center The musical, based on Roald Dahl’s 1961 children’s book, traces the life of the orphan, James Trotter. When he leaves the orphanage to live with his two horrible aunts, he soon discovers a peach growing outside their home and ventures inside of it to befriend five insects. Through a series of odd adventures, James gains an unexpected, unconventional understanding of what it means to be a family. Info and tickets at hesston.edu/theatre.
Where have all the Pastors Gone? – March 25 to 26, Hesston Mennonite Church and online A Weekend College event presented by Hesston’s Center for Anabaptist Leadership and Learning (CALL) program, the seminar will explore strategies to encourage discernment and development of calls to leadership within our congregations. Discuss barriers to the pastoral call and work at strategies to remove those barriers. Explore ways the church can change to make the pastor role more attractive. Online and in-person options available. Learn more and register at hesston.edu/weekendcollege.
KANSAS MENNONITE RELIEF SALE ANNOUNCEMENTS Get ready for the Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale, a benefit for Mennonite Central Committee, April 8 & 9 at the Kan. Fairgrounds in Hutch. What can you bring as your gift to the hungry and hurting at home and abroad? Quality woodwork and needlework items, cotton tea towels, hobby items, crafts, plants and baked foods are much in demand.
By working together for the Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale, we have the opportunity to share with the needy of our world. Each year, it is the sale board and supporting committee’s goal to raise funds to cover the budget leading up to the sale. The purchasing committee needs cash gifts for 45 items ranging in cost from $350 for butter to $8,800 for building rentals. By meeting the budget prior to the sale, all proceeds sale weekend can be donated to MCC. If you or your Sunday School class can support the sale budget in this way, get in touch with Dale and Margo Schrag or Steve and Elaine Schurr, your relief sale contact persons, or send contributions to sale treasurer, Jo Kasitz, treasurer, 1715 Casey, Newton, KS 67114.
MENNONITE CENTRAL COMMITTEE ANNOUNCEMENTS Please continue to pray for peace and safety in Ukraine. MCC is evaluating the situation and giving support to staff and partners as the situation allows. All international MCC staff have been evacuated from Ukraine including two SALT participants from Kansas. Aaron Ensz from Buhler has returned to the U.S. and Micah Epp from North Newton has relocated outside of Ukraine. Please keep them and their families in your prayers as well.
Impact 2022: Do you care about helping Mennonite Central Committee make an impact in the U.S. and around the world? If so, we want to listen to you. Your input can help fulfill MCC’s desire to find the best ways of responding to basic human needs and working for peace and justice. Share your ideas in this short survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MCCimpact2022-Media. Thank you!
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation!
To Western District Conference congregations, As the crisis in Ukraine deepens following the invasion by Russian military forces on February 24, I invite you to join Mennonite Church USA (MC USA) and Mennonite World Conference in offering prayer for all who are impacted by this war, particularly for Ukrainians and our Mennonite siblings in Ukraine. MC USA is a member of Mennonite World Conference, a global community of faith in the Anabaptist tradition. Here are several resources for participating in prayer and support for peacemaking and justice in Ukraine:
May we join God’s work of justice, mercy and peacemaking,
Heidi Regier Kreider WDC Conference Minister
Invitation to attend March 6 Meeting on Medicaid Expansion in Kansas You are receiving this invitation as a church or an organization of faith. As a person of faith, I feel Medicaid Expansion is a moral issue that must be addressed. It is time we step up and see that persons in our neighborhood, community and state have access to affordable health care.
Do you ever wonder… How many Kansans are without affordable health insurance and therefore affordable health care? What is the maximum income a single parent with two children can make and still qualify for Medicaid? What can persons of faith, those who see the need for the expansion of Medicaid (KanCare) and concerned Kansans do to address Medicaid expansion in Kansas?
You, your congregation, stakeholders and the community are invited to attend an informational meeting of “Faith Voices for Medicaid Expansion” March 6, 2022, 2:30, at Trinity Heights United Methodist Church, 1200 Boyd Avenue, Newton, KS. Parking is available on the east side of the church off Trinity Drive. Please extend an invitation out to other interested parties.
We will address this information and more with the goal to find out what we can do individually and collectively to address this moral issue and improve the lives of Kansans. On the 6th we look forward to hearing from Matt Schmidt from Health Ministries to share the local impact of expanding Medicaid.
Trinity Height UMC Missions Committee
Mennonite Mission Network News from Around the World click here Mennonite Mission Network MVS Mustard Seeds click here Mennonite World Conference click here Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond click here Mennonite Men click here
MENNONITE CHURCH USA ANNOUNCEMENTS The Mennonite Church USA annual Lent at Home guide is now available. Find the guide and other Lent resources at mennoniteusa.org/lentathome.
Learn about the “Accessibility Resolution,” which will be voted on at Mennonite Church USA’s Special Session of the Delegate Assembly, May 27-30. MHS’ Clare Krabill and Anabaptist Disability Network’s Jeanne Davies will discuss it during a webinar on Monday, Mar. 7 at 7 p.m. ET. Read the resolution and register for the webinar on the delegate resource page: mennoniteusa.org/special-delegate
Join author and pastor Osheta Moore on March 3 from 6:30-8:30 pm for “Ain’t Gonna Study War No More,” a hybrid event focused on restoration and shalom and cohosted by Atlantic Coast Conference. Register for your free ticket at tinyurl.com/y4fw578v.
Menno Snapshots In his blog, “Not too much or too little,” Beryl Jantzi reflects on the prayer of Agur in Proverbs 30. He reminds us to be content with our “daily bread” and to avoid the dangers of pursing wealth and power. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/not-too-much-little.
Menno Snapshots In her blog, “A spiritual discipline?” Mag Richer Smith poetically describes how she sees God using her grandma’s sewing box to create the world and mend the brokenness of humanity. Read her poem here: mennoniteusa.org/spiritual-discipline.
Are you looking for a way to provide a faithful testimony to the world regarding Jesus’ way of nonviolence and peace? This tax season, learn more about Mennonite Church USA’s Church Peace Tax Fund here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/news/peace-tax-fund/.
Sand Creek Community Garden Announcement (in anticipation of Spring) The Sand Creek Community Garden (just north of the Bethel College campus) has a few plots available for rent for the 2022 season. Please email communitygarden@bethelks.edu for more information or to request an application.”
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network, with more than a dozen partners, realized a long-held dream in 2021 — to make Anabaptist theological resources available in the French language. Praise God for the launch of this program with free monthly online webinars offered by le Centre de Formation á la Justice et á la Paix (Justice and Peace Training Center), and pray for its continued development. Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for the WDC Church Planting Commission, as they implement a new strategic plan to engage our whole conference in initiatives for church planting, revitalizing congregations, and fostering relationships with emerging Anabaptist/Mennonite groups.
Please pray for safe travels and exciting experiences for the youth and sponsors traveling to Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp this weekend (February 18-20) for Snow Camp. Renee is the input speaker for the weekend and the BCMC youth are joining together with the First Mennonite Church (Newton) as a joint youth group for this weekend.
This week at BCMC (Meetings and times can sometimes change– be sure to watch your emails for possible changes) Sunday, February 20, 2022 9:30 am Worship Service (in person and live streamed) Children and youth Sunday School classes! 10:30-11:30 am Preschoolers – Room B4 Middlers (3rd-8th graders) – Room 26 The Agape Class will meet in Room B8 Adult Classes (If meeting): Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Mosaic (Rm 20); Open Circle (Room 21); Seekers (Rm 28); Sojourners (Chapel) No High School or Koinonia classes this Sunday Monday, February 21, 2022 Tuesday, February 22, 2022 9—11 am Community Playschool 12 pm Mid Kansas Investment Club meets in Fellowship Hall 4 pm Reopening Church Task Force meeting 7 pm Abuse Prevention and Response Committee meeting Wednesday, February 23, 2022 7 pm Menno Ringers in B7 7 pm Youth Group 7:30 pm Chancel Choir rehearsal in the sanctuary Thursday, February 24, 2022 9—11 am Community Playschool 2 pm Hospitality Commission meeting in Fellowship Hall 6:15 pm Chancel Bells in Room B7 Friday-Saturday February 25 and 26 Sunday, February 27 9:30 am Worship Service (in person and live streamed) 10:30 am Children and Youth Sunday School 2-4 pm BookReviews Reception for Vern Preheim in Fellowship Hall
BookReviews Recognition for Vern Preheim You are invited to a come and go reception for Vern Preheim who has retired from BookReviews. This event to recognize Vern’s contributions to BookReviews will be Sunday, February 27 from 2 to 4 pm in the Bethel College Mennonite Church Fellowship Hall.
Chancel Choir Rehearsals to Resume Chancel Choir rehearsal will resume Wednesday, February 23, at 7:30 pm in the sanctuary. Rehearsals will be from 7:30 to 8:30 pm.
Name Tags As we are returning to church in personFebrurary 20, we would like to encourage you to once again wear name tags. There will be a clipboard on the table at the back of the sanctuary to sign up if you need a name tag or have lost your name tag. Thank you! Hospitality Commission
BCMC Kaleidoscope The Bethel College Mennonite Church newsletterThe Kaleidoscopeis ready to read.Click on the following link: Kaleidoscope link There are paper copies available on the ledge between the mailboxes at the church.
Circles of Grace Opportunities With our recently adopted APRC policy, BCMC has committed to being a safe and victim centered community. Everyone in the congregation is responsible for safety and increasing victim awareness. Children are learning about these things through the Circles of Grace curriculum. During this special education time participants will learn about the Circles of Grace curriculum and reflect on what it means to be a trusted adult. Join us via zoom February 23 at 7pm to learn how to be a trusted adult for all persons in our congregation.
Circles of Grace will be offered to children and youth during their in-person Sunday School hour on February 27th and March 6th.
Thank you Thank you for your prayers, cards, calls and care. I am doing well now. Willye Hinz
Quilts Displayed The BCMC Mission Quilters will be displaying quilts February 27 at the back of the sanctuary. These quilts will be offered for sale at the Mennonite Central Committee Relief Sale, April 8 and 9. If you have quilts you would like to display, the Mission Quilters will need them by February 25. (Call Elaine Schurr for more information.) The quilts are due at Mennonite Central Committee by March 1.
BCMC Pictorial Directory The Hospitality Commission needs your help and your smiles to complete the task of compiling a new church pictorial directory. ANYONE who wants to be included in the BCMC Photo Directory is welcomed to participate. Official membership is NOT required. If you want to be included in the BCMC community, shine up that smile! All photography sessions will be held in Fellowship Hall, March 24, 25, and 26. The photo sessions on Thursday and Friday will run from 2:00 to 8:30 pm and on Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm. When you sign-up for an appointment, you will have a professional photography session, schedule a ZOOM meeting to see your proofs on computer at a later date where you’ll have the opportunity to purchase extra portraits for family and friends. A computer will be available at the church, along with assistance, to hold the scheduled ZOOM meeting for those Individuals that do not have computer access. Three options for making an appointment March 24, 25, or 26: 1. Click on the link below and make your appointment yourself on-line https://instant-scheduling.com/sch.php?kn=3534502&typId=63985&step=2 2. Call Doris Whillock at (316) 283-5561 to set up your appointment date 3. Sign up before or after the worship service on Sunday (when in-person worship resumes) Make an appointment to have your picture taken today. Every family photographed for the directory will receive a copy of the directory and an 8×10 portrait at no cost. So please, sign-up today!
Lent 2022: Seeking God’s Way For the Lent 2022 Devotional press here
Lent Prayers Pastoral staff at BCMC will be facilitating prayers during lent on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at 4 pm. This is a time to take a break from the day and let evening come. We will pray together via Zoom for about 15-20 minutes using the daily prayer book from the Corrymeela Community, northern Ireland’s longest running peace and reconciliation organization: Daily Prayer with the Corrymeela Community by Padraig O Tuama. Please contact Pastor Nathan if you would like to receive the Zoom link. Purchase of the prayer book will be helpful, but is not necessary. Prayers will begin on Tuesday, March 8.
BETHEL COLLEGE ANNOUNCEMENTS
TODAY (Sun., Feb. 20) – KIPCOR Film Series, Citizen Ashe, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Audience discussion follows with Bethel College head football coach A.B. Stokes. Current Bethel COVID protocols require masking indoors regardless of vaccination status.
TODAY (Sun., Feb. 20) – Senior recital by Bethel College student Trae Gehring, tuba, 4 p.m., featuring works by Dowling, Williams, Haddad, Lebedev, Meador and Baadsvik. Administration Building chapel. Current Bethel COVID protocols require masking indoors regardless of vaccination status.
Tues., Feb. 22 – Bethel College Orchestra concert under the direction of Kristopher Hilding, 7:30 p.m., Memorial Hall. Current Bethel COVID protocols require masking indoors regardless of vaccination status.
Thurs., Feb. 24 – Closing reception for Ernest Vincent Wood III and “Do Not Despise the Day of Small Things,” 6-8 p.m., Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Current Bethel COVID protocols require masking indoors regardless of vaccination status.
Fri., Feb. 25 – Bethel College presents its first in-person forensics showcase since 2019, 11 a.m., Memorial Hall (part of the regular convocation series). Livestream option on Bethel’s YouTube channel.
Sun., Feb. 27 – Junior recital by Bethel College student Julianna Schrag, soprano, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel. Current Bethel COVID protocols require masking indoors regardless of vaccination status.
Mon., Feb. 28 – Bethel College Wind Ensemble concert under the direction of Joel Boettger, 7 p.m., featuring works by Erickson, Ticheli, Mackey, Standridge and Sousa; Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Current Bethel COVID protocols require masking indoors regardless of vaccination status.
Fri., March 4 – Bethel College presents the 2nd Annual Ada Schmidt-Tieszen Lecture with Dr. Rebecca Thomas, professor and director for international social work studies at the University of Connecticut’s School of Social Work, 11 a.m., Memorial Hall. Livestream option available on Bethel’s YouTube channel.
HESSTON COLLEGE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Sunflower Performing Arts presents: VOCES8 – Feb. 22, 7:30 p.m., Hesston Mennonite Church Based in the United Kingdom, this world-famous vocal octet will present a program titled “Choral Dances” which explores the interweaving of dance and music through the ages. Info and tickets at sunflowerarts.org.
Spring musical: James and the Giant Peach – March 2 to 6, Black Box Theater, Keim Center The musical, based on Roald Dahl’s 1961 children’s book, traces the life of the orphan, James Trotter. When he leaves the orphanage to live with his two horrible aunts, he soon discovers a peach growing outside their home and ventures inside of it to befriend five insects. Through a series of odd adventures, James gains an unexpected, unconventional understanding of what it means to be a family. Info and tickets at hesston.edu/theatre.
MENNONITE CENTRAL COMMITTEE AND KANSAS MENNONITE RELIEF SALE ANNOUNCEMENTS Get ready for the Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale, a benefit for Mennonite Central Committee, April 8 & 9 at the Kansas Fairgrounds in Hutchinson
KMRS’s purpose is to raise funds for Mennonite Central Committee (www.mcc.org). It takes a whole host of individuals playing their part in order that we might carry out the Lord’s bidding to care for the “least of these” found in Matt. 25. We call upon our supporting churches to donate toward the sale budget so that every dollar raised at the sale is donated to MCC. We call upon quilters to complete their quilts and to gather extra supplies to donate to Quilters’ Corner. Consider donating items to the General, Silent and even our Kid’s Auction. During the cool winter months, divide house plants and start vegetable plants to sell at Plants &Things and tea towel sets completed for Kansas Crafts. Challenge yourself to participate in the Run for Relief, a 5K run/walk the Saturday of the sale and spend the winter months gathering your pledges. Go to: www.kansas.mccsale.org or like us on Facebook at Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale.
All are welcome to join the fun at 14th annual MCC Comforter Blitz on March 7, 8 and 9 at the Journey Yoder Campus, one mile north of Yoder, KS. Times are Monday and Tuesday 9-5, and Wednesday 9-4. Come and have a good time while helping others. No sewing skills required. Lunch is available by donation each day, or you may bring your own sack lunch. You can bring snacks to share during work day. Masks are highly encouraged and plan to practice social distancing. This event is hosted by Kansas Friends of MCC, to make good quality, beautiful comforters for MCC to send for warmth, comfort, and love all around the world. Please contact the MCC Central States office with questions at #316-283-2720, or check the Comforter Blitz Facebook Page, “MCC Comforter Blitz for Kansas”.
WESTERN DISTRICT CONFERENCE ANNOUNCEMENT Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation!
Click here for Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond Click here for Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level
MENNONITE CHURCH USA ANNOUNCEMENTS Learn about “A Resolution for Repentance and Transformation,” which will be presented at Mennonite Church USA’s Special Session of the Delegate Assembly, May 27-30. Members of the Inclusive Mennonite Pastors leadership team, who authored the resolution, will discuss it with other church leaders during a webinar on Monday, Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. ET. Read the resolution and register for the webinar on the delegate resource page: mennoniteusa.org/special-delegate
Mennonite Church USA (MC USA) has partnered with the Kineo Center to offer renewal and retreat options for ministry leaders. This partnership offers many benefits to MC USA minsters, including a cohort option for leaders experiencing ministry burnout. Learn more here: mennoniteusa.org/mc-usa-kineo.
Mennonite Church USA, Mennonite Church Canada and Herald Press are partnering to encourage every Mennonite to read carefully selected books chosen to equip the church. Join authors Regina Shands Stoltzfus and Tobin Miller Shearer for a CommonRead Conversation about their new book, “Been in the Struggle: Pursuing an Antiracist Spirituality,” on Tuesday, February 22 at 7 p.m. EST/6 p.m. CST. Register here: https://www.mennomedia.org/register-now/
Please join Mennonite Church USA (MC USA) in praying that the hybrid Pastors & Leaders | Deep Faith 2022 Conference, a joint conference by MC USA and Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary, provides encouragement and insight for pastors and leaders across the denomination. The conference will be held Feb. 21-24 both online and in person on the AMBS campus.
Menno Snapshots Kyle Rodgers felt the call to ministry as a young child, but he did not receive encouragement to pursue this calling. As an adult, he felt the calling again, and he became a pastor with the mission of encouraging youth and adults to pursue God’s call. Read his blog, “Never too young for God,” here: mennoniteusa.org/never-too-young-for-god.
Menno Snapshots In retirement, spiritual director, Leslie James, found a new passion: creating worship art. Read her blog, “In the place just right,” to find out how this passion turned into a spiritual practice for her. mennoniteusa.org/place-just-right
ROCKY MOUNTAIN MENNONITE CAMP ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mountain States Mennonite Conference Men’s Retreat at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp is just around the corner on March 4-6, 2022. The incorporated Friday workday (breakfast through supper) projects includes burn piles and siding for the Sky-Hi-View shower addition. For the retreat, John Sharp will join us and lead our weekend theme of “Bearing Witness in Places of Violence and Other Stories”. Retreat sessions include: “The MJ Sharp story” (visit www.tradingpost.rmmc.org for the book, “Disarmed: The Radical Life and Legacy of Michael Mj Sharp”), “Stories of Humor, Humanity and Humility: Laughing so we don’t cry”, and concluding Sunday morning with “The Stories We Become”. Additionally, good music, food, fellowship and play will be part of our time together. While we look forward to gathering again in person with precautions, a virtual registration option (www.rmmc.org) is also offered (via Zoom links) for the worship sessions only.
Colorado Roots Music Camp I & II at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp is looking to return this summer June 5-11 & August 7-13. Now in its 16th year, RMMC has been the setting for great bluegrass instructors leading daytime classes and performing evening concerts. Class descriptions have just been finalized and are listed on the web page (www.coloradorootsmusic.com). Both weeks are filling up fast and accommodations are made on a first register, first choice basis. Hoping to hold both camps this summer which hasn’t happened since before the coronavirus pandemic in 2019. Anabaptist musicians with a guitar, mandolin, fiddle, banjo, bass or voice of all levels of play (beginner to expert) are encouraged to come!
This week at BCMC (Meetings and times sometimes change–please watch your emails for changes) Sunday, February 13, 2022 9:30 am Worship service will be live streamed only Monday, February 14, 2022 2 pm Women’s Fellowship meeting in Room 14 Tuesday, February 15, 2022 9—11 am Community Playschool 7 pm Worship Commission meeting 7 pm Church Board Wednesday, February 16, 2022 7 pm Menno Ringers in B7 7 pm Youth Group Thursday, February 17, 2022 9—11 am Community Playschool 4 pm Witness Commission meeting in Room 14 6:15 pm Chancel Bells in Room B7 7 pm Deacon Commission meeting by Zoom 7 pm Bethel College Women’s Association meeting in Fellowship Hall Friday-Saturday February 18-19, 2022 Senior High Youth Group at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Snow Camp Sunday, February 20, 2022 Hopefully, in person worship—be sure to check your emails
BCMC Offerings January 30, 2022 General Fund $8,135; Adult Choir $25; Living Stones $2,155; Women’s Fellowship $120; Howard Lohrentz Memorial $891. February 6, 2022 General Fund $9,327; Living Stones $365; Howard Lohrentz Memorial $25
Save the date! Circles of Grace for children and youth will be offered during the Sunday School hour on February 27th and March 6th. Adults have the opportunity to learn about Circles of Grace this year too! The abuse prevention and response committee will be offering a time for adults on Wednesday, February 23rd at 7pm on zoom.
Name Tags As we are returning to church in person (we hope by February 20), we would like to encourage you to once again wear name tags. There will be a clipboard on the table at the back of the sanctuary to sign up if you need a name tag or have lost your name tag. Thank you! Hospitality Commission
Quilts Displayed The BCMC Mission Quilters will be displaying quilts February 27 at the back of the sanctuary. These quilts will be offered for sale at the Mennonite Central Committee Relief Sale, April 8 and 9. If you have quilts you would like to display, the Mission Quilters will need them by February 25. (Call Elaine Schurr for more information.) The quilts are due at Mennonite Central Committee by March 1.
BCMC Pictorial Directory!
A church pictorial directory is a powerful tool to help us know each other better. Our last directory is now 7 years old, and it is time for a new one! The Hospitality Commission needs your help and your smiles to get this task completed. All photography sessions will be held in Fellowship Hall, March 24, 25, and 26. The photo sessions on Thursday and Friday will run from 2:00 to 8:30 pm and on Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm. When you sign-up for an appointment, you will have a professional photography session, schedule a ZOOM meeting to see your proofs on computer at a later date where you’ll have the opportunity to purchase extra portraits for family and friends. A computer will be available at the church, along with assistance, to hold the scheduled ZOOM meeting for those Individuals that do not have computer access.
Three options for making an appointment March 24, 25, or 26:
Click on the link below and make your appointment yourself on-line
Call Doris Whillock at (316) 283-5561 to set up your appointment date
Sign up before or after the worship service on Sunday (when in-person worship resumes)
Make an appointment to have your picture taken today. Every family photographed for the directory will receive a copy of the directory and an 8×10 portrait at no cost. So please, sign-up today!
Save the date for the BCMC all church retreat May 7-8th at Camp Mennoscah! Everyone is invited to spend the night, join for the day activities, or come up for Sunday morning. More information will be coming soon!
We are looking for people who would be willing to give rides to BCMC people to medical appointments. If this is something you could do occasionally, please contact the BCMC office.
BETHEL COLLEGE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Now in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College – Ernest Vincent Wood III, “Do Not Despise the Day of Small Things,” through Feb. 24. Gallery hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Sat., Feb. 19 – Grand opening of Kauffman Museum’s 125th-anniversary exhibit, “The Magic of Things,” come-and-go, 2:30-4:30 p.m., with remarks by lead curator Reinhild K. Janzen at 3 p.m.
Sun., Feb. 20 – KIPCOR Film Series, Citizen Ashe, 2 p.m., with audience discussion to follow, Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center
Sun., Feb. 20 – Senior recital by Bethel College student Trae Gehring, tuba, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel.
Tues., Feb. 22 – Bethel College Orchestra concert under the direction of Kristopher Hilding, 7:30 p.m., Memorial Hall.
Fri., Feb. 25 – Bethel College presents its first in-person forensics showcase since 2019, 11 a.m., Memorial Hall (part of the regular convocation series). Livestream option on Bethel’s YouTube channel.
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation!
HESSTON COLLEGE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Sunflower Performing Arts presents: VOCES8 – Feb. 22, 7:30 p.m., Hesston Mennonite Church Based in the United Kingdom, this world-famous vocal octet will present a program titled “Choral Dances” which explores the interweaving of dance and music through the ages. Info and tickets at sunflowerarts.org.
Spring musical: James and the Giant Peach – March 2 to 6, Black Box Theater, Keim Center The musical, based on Roald Dahl’s 1961 children’s book, traces the life of the orphan, James Trotter. When he leaves the orphanage to live with his two horrible aunts, he soon discovers a peach growing outside their home and ventures inside of it to befriend five insects. Through a series of odd adventures, James gains an unexpected, unconventional understanding of what it means to be a family. Info and tickets at hesston.edu/theatre.
CAMP MENNOSCAH ANNOUNCEMENTS
Summer Youth Camp Registration Open! Register now for your week of faith, friends, and gobs of fun! We do not know exactly what to expect for the 2022 summer, but once again we will build on the Rock and play in the sand! While we hope for a summer with minimal restrictions, the pandemic may change by June and camp guidelines will change with it. Register at www.campmennoscah.org!
Other events and happenings:
Cooks needed for Summer Youth Camps! Your time and skill give campers a week of growing in Christian fellowship and experiencing God’s great creation. Cooks need only willing hands. Contact Camp Mennoscah for available weeks at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org. Be part of an important time of faith formation for people of all ages!
Online Registration for the March 18-20 Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat is open! There is only one retreat in spring and only one in fall. Cropping and crafting will happen in the Dining Hall and lodging will be in the Retreat Center. As of Feb. 10, masks are recommended inside per CDC guidelines; guidelines will depend on the state of the pandemic in March. Call 620-297-3290 with questions. Register at www.campmennoscah.org!
For Mennonite Central Committee In Touch press here For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond presshere
MENNONITE CHURCH USA ANNOUNCEMENTS Learn about “Clarification on Mennonite Church USA Polity and the Role of the Membership Guidelines,” a resolution that will be voted on at Mennonite Church USA’s Special Session of the Delegate Assembly, May 27-30. Michael Danner, MC USA associate executive director, and Linda Dibble, MC USA moderator, will discuss it during a webinar on Tuesday, Feb. 15 at 7 p.m. ET. Read the resolution and register for the webinar on the delegate resource page: mennoniteusa.org/special-delegate
Mennonite Church USA and Mennonite Church Canada are partnering to create a new guidebook that addresses the prevention of abuse by church leaders, as well as providing guidance for leadership accountability. The project is expected to be presented to the delegate assemblies in 2023. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/mc-canada-usa-partner.
Listen to Mennonite Church USA’s Women in Leadership podcast, “Holding It(,) Together,” hosted by Bonita Croyle. In Season 2, episode 3, Erica Littlewolf discusses “Bodies and Grief.” Available here or any podcasts can be heard: mennoniteusa.org/hit
Join Mennonite Men and men from around the country on a week-long eco-excursion in Oregon, June 11-19. Explore nature, learn about forest ecosystems and help nurture newly planted trees along the Zena Forest. Find more details and register at oregon-eco-excursion.mailchimpsites.com/.
Subscribe to Mennonite Education Agency’s monthly prayer list for Mennonite schools across the country. Subscribe here: mennoniteusa.org/mea/resource/prayer
Menno Snapshots Martin Luther King Jr. Day is celebrated every January, but his legacy can be celebrated and honored throughout the year. Ann Jacobs, in her blog, “Some reflections on MLK Jr.,” provides several ideas for how to live out King’s peacemaking vision during Black History Month and all year. mennoniteusa.org/reflections-mlk
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Praise God for the opportunities that Mennonite Mission Network’s SOOP program offers for learning and service. February is a busy month for SOOP, with more than 60 participants working in Arizona (three locations), Colorado, Florida (two locations), New Mexico and Texas. Pray that each participant will be blessed, as they bless others. Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for health and strength for WDC pastors, chaplains and other ministers as they continue to offer leadership and compassionate care for others in the midst of the ongoing pandemic.
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH February 6th, 2022
Prelude—Verlene Garber, organ
Land Acknowledgement—Florence Schloneger
Lighting the Christ Candle—Renee Reimer
Welcome and Prayer
*Hymn—Summoned by the God Who Made Us—VT 1
Children’s Conversation—Kathy Stucky
Scripture Reading—Psalm 27—Darlene Dick
Sermon—Thin Places—Kathy Neufeld Dunn
*Hymn—The Lord is My Light—VT 437
Service of Installation for Todd Schlosser, Interim Pastor—Kathy Neufeld Dunn, WDC Associate Conference Minister
*Hymn—Nothing is Lost on the Breath of God—VT 653
Prayers of God’s people—Renee Reimer
*Hymn—The Lord Lift You Up—VT 832
*Benediction—Kathy Neufeld Dunn
Postlude—Verlene Garber
Installation of Interim Minister Todd Schlosser
Conference Minister: Introductory words.
Moderator: We are the Body of Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit. We worship, nurture faith, care for one another, welcome and serve others, and proclaim God’s good news in the world. We call pastors to guide us in becoming fully devoted followers of Jesus who become the hands and feet of Christ in the world. We are grateful that Todd has heard the call to serve in an interim pastor role during this transitional time.
Conference Minister: Todd, seeing that the grace of God has called you into pastoral leadership in this church, I now ask you: Do you promise, to the best of your ability, to carry out your role and responsibilities on the Bethel College Mennonite Church pastoral team?
Todd: I do.
Conference Minister: Will you seek to be faithful in prayer, in setting forth the scriptures and in seeking the good of this congregation? And will you seek to live honestly, openly and justly with your brothers and sisters in this congregation?
Todd: I will.
Conference Minister: Will you exercise the authority that has been entrusted to you in the loving spirit of Christ; and will you build up and equip members and seekers for a deeper walk with Jesus, a stronger relationship with God, a greater reliance on the Holy Spirit and a deeper love for all people?
Todd: I will.
Conference Minister (to Todd): Renee and Nathan, do you welcome Todd as a co-worker in Christ? Will you support him with your prayers and encouragement as you seek to lead this congregation together?
Renee and Nathan: I do and I will.
Conference Minister (to congregation): Christian friends, you have heard the commitments that Todd has made in accepting the call to serve as Interim Pastor here with Bethel College Mennonite Church. Do you receive him as sent by God to provide pastoral leadership in this congregation, and do you offer your support and prayers for his ministry among you? If so, please respond, “We do.”
Congregation: We do.
Todd: [Brief words of response]
Conference Minister: Now let us join in a spirit of prayer as we ask God’s blessing on Todd. Lord of creation and of the church, we bless you for the gifts you give and call forth through your Spirit for the sake of the kingdom. Bless the covenant made this day between these pastors and this congregation. Grant Todd a discerning heart, confidence in your call, strength and joy in the tasks of ministry now set before him. Make us each partners in ministry with Todd, Renee, and Nathan –constant in support, gentle in criticism, prayerful in all things. And now, O God of peace, who brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, make us complete in everything good, so that we may do your will, working among us that which is pleasing in your sight. Through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
VT = Voices Together
Audio visual—Ben Lichti
Pastors—Renee Reimer, Nathan Koontz, and Todd Schlosser
Choral Group—William Eash, Esther Eash, Ron Garber, Barbara Thiesen, and Carol Flickinger
The BCMC Reopening Task Force has decided, due to high COVID positivity rates, that there will be no in person worship for the next two Sundays. Please join the worship service on line. We hope to meet for in person worship February 20. Please check the church emails for whether there will be in person or on line only worship.
SAFE SANCTUARY TRAINING FOR SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 6 Safe Sanctuary training will be on Sunday, February 6th from 10:30am-11:30am. This training will take place only on zoom. Please email Renee at renee@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.com for a link if you’d like to join. All are welcome but please plan to attend if you are a mentor, youth/child Sunday School teacher, sponsor, or Wednesday night club leader and did not attend a training this past fall.
This week at BCMC Sunday, February 6, 2022 9:30 am Installation of Pastor Todd Schlosser—worship service will be on line only—Please join us via the live stream 10:30 am Safe Sanctuary Training by Zoom Tuesday, February 8 9—11 am Community Playschool Wednesday, February 9, 2022 7 pm Menno Ringers in B7 Thursday, February 10, 2022 9—11 am Community Playschool 4 pm Staff Congregation Relations Committee Meeting—Room 14 6:15 pm Chancel Bells in Room B7 7 pm Finance Committee Meeting by Zoom Sunday, February 13, 2022 9:30 am Worship service will be live streamed only—No in person worship
If you missed Sunday’s (January 30) congregational meeting you can watch the zoom meeting here: https://youtu.be/x4XOVYHaSV8
N95 Masks Again Available at BCMC We again have high quality N95 masks available for those who need them. They are available inside the south entrance of BCMC. These masks are particularly useful if you are at high risk of severe COVID 19 and you need or want to participate in a more high risk activity. While no mask creates absolute safety, wearing a well-fitted N95 mask can reduce your risk and make activities safer. This includes activities such as a trip to the grocery store, watching a basketball game, or going to the doctor’s office. Part of the rationale behind these masks offered at BCMC is to provide N95 masks for those who may not be able to navigate online purchasing options. N95 masks are not readily available in our local stores. If you know of someone who would benefit from an N95 mask, please pass this information on to them, or stop by the church and grab one for them.
Name Tags As we are returning to church in person (we hope by February 20), we would like to encourage you to once again wear name tags. There will be a clipboard on the table at the back of the sanctuary to sign up if you need a name tag or have lost your name tag. Thank you! Hospitality Commission
Quilts Displayed The BCMC Mission Quilters will be displaying quilts February 27 at the back of the sanctuary. These quilts will be offered for sale at the Mennonite Central Committee Relief Sale, April 8 and 9. If you have quilts you would like to display, the Mission Quilters will need them by February 25. (Call Elaine Schurr for more information.) The quilts are due at Mennonite Central Committee by March 1.
Save the date for the BCMC all church retreat May 7-8th at Camp Mennoscah! Everyone is invited to spend the night, join for the day activities, or come up for Sunday morning. More information will be coming soon!
We are looking for people who would be willing to give rides to BCMC people to medical appointments. If this is something you could do occasionally, please contact the BCMC office.
BETHEL COLLEGE ANNOUNCEMENTS Now in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College – Ernest Vincent Wood III, “Redefining,” through Feb. 24. Gallery hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tues., Feb. 8 – Bethel College Organ Recital Series presents Dr. David Pickering of Kansas State University, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel, featuring works by Vierne, J.S. Bach and Mendelssohn. Current Bethel COVID protocols require masking indoors regardless of vaccination status. Fri., Feb. 11– Guest recital with Bethel College Professor Emeritus of Music Don Kehrberg, oboe, English horn and tenor, with Tate Addis, piano, and Kevin Kehrberg, bass guitar, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel. Current Bethel COVID protocols require masking indoors regardless of vaccination status. Sat., Feb. 19 – Grand opening of Kauffman Museum’s 125th-anniversary exhibit, “The Magic of Things.” Come-and-go, 2:30-4:30 p.m., with remarks by lead curator Reinhild K. Janzen at 3 p.m. Current Bethel COVID protocols require masking indoors regardless of vaccination status.
EVERENCE ANNOUNCEMENT Everence® February webinar: Social Security and retirement income Everence® will hold an informative Social Security and retirement income webinar on Tuesday, Feb. 15, starting at 6:30 p.m. Specifics will include Social Security strategies, including when to begin taking benefits, risks that can impact your retirement savings plus strategies to help your income last throughout retirement. There will also be plenty of time for questions. Information will be presented by staff from the Everence offices in Central Kansas. To register contact Everence at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com. Advisory services offered through Concourse Financial Group Advisors, a division of Concourse Financial Group Securities, a Registered Investment Advisor. Securities offered through Concourse Financial Group Securities, a registered broker-dealer and member of FINRA and SIPC. Investments and other products are not NCUA or otherwise federally insured, may involve loss of principal, and have no credit union guarantee. Products and services offered through Everence Trust Company and other Everence entities are independent of and are not guaranteed or endorsed by Concourse Financial Group Securities, or its affiliates. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. owns the CFP® marks in the U.S.
WESTERN DISTRICT CONFERENCE ANNOUNCEMENTS Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation! Join the WDC Resource Library’s Final Thursday Book Discussion on Thursday, February 24 to discuss Been in the Struggle: Pursing an Antiracist Spirituality by Regina Shands Stoltzfus & Tobin Miller Shearer. Discussion will be via Zoom from 7:00-8:00pm. Register by emailing crlib@mennowdc.org Copies of the book available at the library. The WDC Israel-Palestine Task Force is sponsoring a Zoom book discussion of Jonathan Kuttab’s book, Beyond the Two-State Solution. This event will take place on Tuesday April 5, 2022 from 7-8 pm CT. The first 20 registrants will receive a free copy of the book. To register email wdc@mennowdc.org or call (316) 283-6300 and provide your name, mailing address, and email address. Specific questions about the event may be referred to Bob Atchison, 785-313-2292 or by e-mail to robertleeatchison@gmail.com. Below you will find a flyer with more information about the event.
Have a heart for refugees! The WDC Immigration Task Force encourages your congregation to offer a “love gift” of cleaning supplies between now and February 14 for arriving families. International Rescue Committee Wichita resettled 350 families last month alone! They come with so little. Let’s remember our own immigrant history and be the hands and feet of Christ, bringing good news to our neighbors. You may drop off donations of supplies at the WDC Office (2517 N Main, North Newton) 8 am-4:30 pm Mon-Fri or at Shalom Mennonite Church (800 E First, Newton) from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Mon-Thurs & Sunday mornings. Email office@shalomnewton.org if you cannot drop off supplies during daytime hours. For more information, click IRC Donations List for the Cleaning Supply Kit List and other needed items. To make a monetary donation, go to: rescue.org/united-states/wichita-ks. Thank you! For the list of needs press here
CAMP MENNOSCAH ANNOUNCEMENTS Online Registration for the March 18-20 Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat is open! There is only one retreat in spring and only one in fall. Cropping and crafting will happen in the Dining Hall and lodging will be in the Retreat Center. As of Feb. 1, masks are recommended inside per CDC guidelines; guidelines will depend on the state of the pandemic in March. Call 620-297-3290 with questions. Register at www.campmennoscah.org!
Other events and happenings:
Summer staff positions! We will continue to accept applications until all positions are filled, however, summer staff positions will be offered beginning no later than February 5. Now is the time to complete your application, if you have not yet! Applicants should be 18 years old or older and in agreement with the Camp Mennoscah mission statement. See website for details.Information and the online application can be found here!Call or email with questions.
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.
FOR MENNONITE MISSION NETWORK NEWS AND BEYOND press here
The Rocky Mountain February newsletter is here! Have a look at the latest/greatest happenings here at RMMC. Below is the return or our Jr. High Snow Camp Retreat. For this and previous newsletters, please visit the camp website and click on the “News” tab under “About Us”.
MENNONITE CHURCH USA ANNOUNCEMENTS February is Black History Month. Celebrate and learn about Mennonite Church USA’s African American Mennonite history through a timeline that highlights the people, events and the work of the church from 1886 to today. https://www.mennoniteusa.org/black-history-mennonite
Learn about “For Justice in the U.S. Criminal Legal System,” a new study resolution that will be presented at Mennonite Church USA’s Special Session of the Delegate Assembly, May 27-30. Eli Reimer, one of the original authors, and Pastor Isaac Villegas, a supporter of the resolution, will discuss it with other church leaders during a webinar on Feb. 7 at 7 p.m. ET. Read the resolution and register for the webinar on the delegate resource page: mennoniteusa.org/special-delegate
MennoMedia has kicked off the second season of its “~ing Podcast.” Episode 2 features a discussion about Mennonite Church USA’s “Defund the Police? An Abolition Curriculum.” Join host Ben Wideman and three of the writers of the curriculum as they discuss why a project like this makes sense for churches, what they learned during its creation, and how our faith might call us to navigate this topic. Listen here or anywhere podcasts are heard: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/ing-podcast
Mennonite Church USA and Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary (AMBS) are cohosting the hybrid Pastors & Leaders | Deep Faith 2022 Conference online and in-person at AMBS Feb. 21-24. Learn more about this year’s event at mennoniteusa.org/leading-hope-deepfaith, and register before the Feb. 14 deadline.
#BeTransformed Kevin Gasser has experienced transformation through his experiences with people who are different from him. In his blog, “Transformed through friendship,” he expresses how his friendship with a man named Mohamed shined a light on his own religious practices. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/transformed-friendship.
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Dave and Rebekka Stutzman, who are jointly serving with Mennonite Mission Network and VMMissions, have requested that people join German Mennonite congregations in praying for church renewal, during the month of February. Pray with them, as they follow a devotional book compiled for this occasion. Western District Conference Prayer Request: During Black History month (February) and throughout the year, pray for WDC congregations and conference leaders in ongoing work toward racial justice and equity.
Janeen Bertsche Johnson (Director of Campus Ministries; Admission Associate; Development Associate; Alumni Director; Core Adjunct Faculty) from Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary (AMBS) joins BCMC for worship this Sunday. Janeen will share about AMBS during the kinship time and offers the morning sermon on this upcoming first Sunday of Lent. The following is from her short biography on the AMBS website.