Author Archives: Monica Lichti

Announcements for September 4-11, 2020

Welcome to BCMC’s new Faith Formation College Intern, Julianna Schrag! Julianna is a sophomore at Bethel College and will be joining our community this year in the area of Faith Formation. She will work under the leadership of the Faith Formation Commission as she teaches preschool Sunday School and coordinates Journey Club. Keep an eye out to learn more about her eagerness to learn and creative spirits!

Friends: Unbelievable! Thank you for all your birthday wishes and notes. It was greatly appreciated. ~ Dorothy Harder

Congratulations to Kate (Katherine Seymour) and her husband Todd Lawrence and grandparents Valetta and Miner Seymour on the birth of a baby girl, Ruth Linden Seymour, August 10 in Nashville, TN!

Announcement about Karen and Glen Ediger’s Grandson
Greyson Ediger, grandson of Glen and Karen Ediger, is recovering at Wesley Regional Medical Center from surgery for Hirschsprung’s Disease, and expects to go home this weekend. Greyson William Ediger was born August 7 to Brandan and Megan Ediger. Brandan and Megan live in Wichita. Brandan is a an Interventional Radiological Technologist at Wesley Regional Medical Center. Megan is the Office Manager for Andover Central High School.

Updating Church Directory
Monica Lichti is working hard at updating our church directory for this coming year. Please take a look at your contact information and your families contact information from the yellow 2019 directory. If anything is incorrect, please let Monica know by September 12.

Church Office Closed
The church office will be closed Monday, September 7th for Labor Day.

Hello!
This week’s “Hello” video comes from the chair of the Faith Formation Commission, Mary Ellen Hodge. Watch this video to learn about the new curriculum Faith Formation Commission bought for the whole church to use. Link is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dHnAnUqin0E&feature=youtu.be
Check out https://www.godsstorygodssong.com/#/ to explore the curriculum on your own. If you’d like to use this curriculum with your Sunday School class, partner, friends, on your own, or by creating a small group, please let Renee Reimer know. All ages, Bible knowledge, and Sunday School attendance records accepted!

From the BCMC Financial Manager, Mike Claassen
According to the latest numbers, we still need $5,291.12 to cover the elevator repair. Based on the estimate from Regier Construction, we need $39,631.03 to cover the kitchen/fellowship hall renovation.
Contributions from January 1 through July 31 were $249,106 and expenses were $275,461, leaving a shortfall of $26,355.

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network’s Service Adventure participants began their assignments in the Jackson, Mississippi, unit this week. Pray that God will provide wisdom for Debbie and Rick Lee, new unit leaders, and for all as they transition into community living and learning.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for Gabriel Pennington as he is installed today as pastor at Southern Hills Mennonite Church, a WDC congregation in Topeka, KS.

Offering at BCMC for August 30-September 6, 2020: General Fund $4,537; Peace Garden Fund $6,000; Living Stones $40.

Other Announcements

You are invited to read the September/October/November issue of WDC’s quarterly newsletter, WDC Garden, now available at: https://mennowdc.org/wdc-garden-september-october-november-2020/.

Everence will host its popular workshop, Make Medicare an easy step, as a webinar on Tuesday, Sept. 15 at 6:30 p.m. Attendees will learn about the various Medicare plans and what they cover; plans that supplement Medicare; and enrollment details and deadlines. This webinar is free. Please register by contacting our office at 877-467-7294, 316-283-3800 or central.kansas@everence.com.

Bethel College Women’s Association has worked to raise money for Bethel for many years. This August we are opening our first online store, www.bcwamarketonline.com. We invite you to help us support Bethel by checking this online market for crafts, jewelry, Bethel-themed items and much more. Our inventory will change over time so please check in to find that special gift or item for your home. If circumstances allow, on September 1 we will begin accepting orders for baked goods to be picked up on Fall Fest weekend, October 1-3. Please check the website for updated information.

If you can tie a knot you can help MCC! There are lots of comforters at MCC in North Newton that need to be tied and we’re looking for volunteers! If you would be interested in borrowing a set of sticks/stands from the MCC Workroom to set up and tie comforters at home, please contact Kate Mast at (katemast@mcc.org, ‪316-804-8432). Thank you!

The 2020 issue of Mennonite Life, Bethel College’s online journal, is live at ml.bethelks.edu, with articles and reviews by Alain Epp Weaver, Ben Nobbs-Thiessen, Ben Woodward-Breckbill, Cheryl Denise, Christopher Reed, Emma Beachy, Jason Schmidt, Joanne Lehman, Joyce Zuercher, Julia Kasdorf, Keith Sprunger, Lisa Schirch, Marc Gopin, Melanie Zuercher and Raylene Hinz-Penner.

Preschool Story Hour at the Conference Resource Library returns this fall with VIRTUAL LIVE story hours full of stories, rhymes, and craft ideas on Tuesdays at 10:00am and Thursdays at 3:30pm. Tuesday and Thursday sessions will be different, join us for one or both sessions each week. Story Hour will start Tuesday, September 8 and be geared toward ages 3-5. Story Hour will be led by Library Director Jennie Wintermote and will be shorter than our Summer Story Hour. Register at https://forms.gle/vpk7DXRwwHAbSo5A7 and contact Jennie with any questions at crlib@mennowdc.org.

Camp Mennoscah announcements
· Mental Health Spiritual Retreat at Camp Mennoscah will be a one-day event on Monday, September 7. This retreat is for those affected by mental illness, including friends and family. Activities will be outside. We will follow social distancing and mask guidelines. Please bring a mask with you. Those interested in attending the retreat should contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290.
· Limited number of openings! Camp Mennoscah’s Scrapbook and Crafts Retreats will take place on Oct. 30-Nov. 1 and Nov. 6-8. Masks and physical distancing guidelines will be followed and the facility used has been changed. More spaces will be opened as determined safe and feasible, so put your name on the waitlist! Register online at campmennoscah.org! Call 620-297-3290 for further information.
· Camp Mennoscah welcomes guests! Camping areas and cabins are open to guests/groups for overnight stays and day visits. Spend time in the river, have a campfire cookout, and enjoy the open spaces of the tallgrass prairie and the Ninnescah River! Contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290 to make a reservation and to inquire about use of additional facilities. We can’t wait to see you!

Women’s Retreat 2020: And now for something completely different! After much discussion and prayer, the Retreat Committee has decided not to meet in person at Camp Menoscah this year. We will miss all of you and the energy and joy you bring to camp. However we WILL gather virtually on Saturday night, September 12 from 7-8:30 pm via Zoom for a worship service. Our goal is to connect to and encourage each other through Christ and His love for us. Susan Jantzen (interim pastor of Worship/Visitation at First Mennonite in Newton) will lead us on “Reflections on God as Keeper”. Bethany Martin from Faith and Life Bookstore will review a few books. Annelle Claassen (Retreat Committee Chair) will lead singing, and Karen Mascho (Pastor and Retreat Committee) will lead communion together. No masks required! For free registration or questions, send your email to Tammy Duvanel Unruh at 2020womensretreat.rsvp@gmail.com by Thursday, September 10. Save the date and we look forward to seeing your whole face!

Mennonite church announcements
· Curious about church planting or re-planting? Join the next Sent Network cohort and learn how to explore, equip, and be sent to spread the word of God! Visit MennoniteMission.net/SentNetwork to learn more and save your spot!
· The Mennonite Heritage and Cultural Museum in Goessel, has an ongoing display of Marie and Martha Voth’s Wheat Marquetry Art till the end of September. Over 25 larger works (both paintings and wheat art) and many, many smaller items and greeting cards. Museum Hours are Tues. through Sat. 10 am – 5 pm. Regular admission applies and free admission for museum members.

Join KIPCOR ONLINE for their 2020-2021 Film Series
On Sunday, September 13, at 2:00 PM KIPCOR will be hosting a ZOOM call featuring the film “Selma: The Bridge to the Ballot”, produced by the group Teaching Tolerance.
This film tells the story of a courageous group of Alabama students and teachers who fought nonviolently against a century of Jim Crow in a segregationist state to win voting rights for African Americans. These change-makers overcame violence, arrest, and even murder to achieve one of the most significant victories of the civil rights era.
The talk-back session after the film will feature Larry Burks, Sr., the President of the Wichita Branch of the NAACP.
You can find out more, and register to participate, on the KIPCOR website at http://kipcor.org/ Advance registration is required.

Now in the Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College: work by three seniors from the Class of 2020, Georgia Anderson, Blayne Stump and Anna Wiens. Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Receptions will be individual and by invitation only. Face masks must be worn on the Bethel College campus.

Now at Kauffman Museum (through Nov. 29) – “Sorting Out Race: Examining Racial Identity and Stereotypes in Thrift Store Donations.” Regular hours are Tues.-Fri. 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 1:30-4:30 p.m., closed Mondays and major holidays, but with ever-changing COVID-19 protocols, you are advised to check the museum website, kauffmanmuseum.org, or Facebook page or call 316-283-1612 before planning a visit.

Good news from Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp! Labor Day Work and Play Retreat, September 4-7 2020 is a “go” all while following existing guidelines to wear a mask inside and/or when within 6′ of participants not from your own place of residence. The weekend is a time for individuals and families of all ages to enjoy a day of work (Saturday) along with a day of “play” (Sunday). Camp operations/projects continue to abound including food service, housekeeping, and maintenance projects (i.e. Spruce beetle mitigation, painting, etc.) With 11 already registered, only 9 more spaces remain so please sign-up online at rmmc.org.

The Israel Palestine Relations Task Force of Western District Conference/Mennonite Church USA is sponsoring a webinar on September 21, UN’s International Day of Peace entitled Racial Justice from US to Palestine. The Webinar features Jonathan Kuttab, Alex Awad and Sarah Thompson Nahar.

For a quick snapshot of what’s happening around WDC or what Keynote Speaker Danny Carroll had to say at the WDC Assembly, go to “WDC Assembly 2020” on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6aO7e884ZT5d9gHzyrfAucccOFYYd_M5. There are many creative Assembly videos still available for viewing!

In an open letter to the denomination, Michael Danner, Mennonite Church USA’s associate executive director of Church Vitality, invites fellow white Christians to “engage in proactive, deliberate efforts to oppose and dismantle racism in all of its forms.” Read more: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/letter-danner

Wurst Fundraiser Ever: You’re invited to a German-themed drive-through carryout meal fundraiser to benefit Mennonite Central Committee Sept. 26 held at Shalom Mennonite Church in Newton, Kan. Tim and Heidi Huber’s family will be offering bratwurst, sides, dessert and drinks, with an RSVP deadline of Sept. 19 or 300 reservations at https://forms.gle/ASndjK9AQPa3BLRS7. Hope to see you there!

Announcements for August 28-September 4, 2020

Hello! This week’s “Hello” video comes from Pastor Nathan Koontz. Click here to join Nathan on a tour of his orbit.

Porch Portraits
We love seeing your pictures and want to keep seeing more! Please send your porch portraits to Renee at renee@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org so we can include your smiles to our collection. View photos by following this link: https://cruxphotos.smugmug.com/BCMC-Porch/ New photos have been added and will continue to be added in this ongoing project.

Prayers for Lee Suderman
Over the past number of months, Lee has struggled with pericarditis. It is a condition that progressively constricts the heart, making the heart less and less able to pump blood. One possible option to aleve the pericarditis would be to have a pericardiectomy. Di and Lee will be traveling to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN for an appointment on September 7 in order to see if Lee is eligible for such an invasive open heart surgery. If the pericardiectomy is advised, Di and Lee would likely be staying in Rochester for most of September in order to stay safe from COVID 19 both before and after the surgery. Please pray for peace and calm and wisdom for both Lee and Di and their doctors as they discern the best path forward.

From the BCMC Financial Manager, Mike Claassen
According to the latest numbers, we still need $5,291.12 to cover the elevator repair. Based on the estimate from Regier Construction, we need $39,631.03 to cover the kitchen/fellowship hall renovation.
Contributions from January 1 through July 31 were $249,106 and expenses were $275,461, leaving a shortfall of $26,355.

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Thank God for how the youth of the Barcelona Mennonite community in Catalonia are flourishing in their spiritual growth despite pandemic restrictions. Pray for Alisha and Joshua Garber, serving with Mennonite Mission Network, as they explore best practices to mentor and teach online.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for God’s wisdom and guidance for WDC as we seek to understand more deeply the structural racism of our own church life and history, and to be faithful to God’s vision for justice in today’s world.

Offering at BCMC for August 23-30, 2020: General Fund $6,312; Memorial Fund $200.29; Columbarium Fund $2,000; Living Stones $45; Elevator Repair $200.

Other Announcements

For the health and safety of participants and the wider community, Life Enrichment at Bethel College is canceled for the fall 2020 semester.

Bethel College Women’s Association has worked to raise money for Bethel for many years. This August we are opening our first online store, www.bca marketonline.com. We invite you to help us support Bethel by checking this online market for crafts, jewelry, Bethel-themed items and much more. Our inventory will change over time so please check in to find that special gift or item for your home. If circumstances allow, on September 1 we will begin accepting orders for baked goods to be picked up on Fall Fest weekend, October 1-3. Please check the website for updated information.

Preschool Story Hour at the Conference Resource Library returns this fall with VIRTUAL LIVE story hours full of stories, rhymes, and craft ideas on Tuesdays at 10:00 am and Thursdays at 3:30 pm. Tuesday and Thursday sessions will be different, join us for one or both sessions each week. Story Hour will start Tuesday, September 8 and be geared toward ages 3-5. Story Hour will be led by Library Director Jennie Wintermote and will be shorter than our Summer Story Hour. Register at https://forms.gle/vpk7DXRwwHAbSo5A7 and contact Jennie with any questions at crlib@mennowdc.org.

Western District Women’s Retreat 2020: And now for something completely different! After much discussion and prayer, the Western District Women in Mission Retreat Committee has decided not to meet in person at Camp Mennoscah this year. We will miss all of you and the energy and joy you bring to camp. However, we WILL gather virtually on Saturday night, September 12 from 7:00-8:30 PM via Zoom for a worship service. Our goal is to connect to and encourage each other through Christ and His love for us. Susan Jantzen (interim pastor of Worship/Visitation at First Mennonite in Newton) will lead us on “Reflections on God as Keeper.” Bethany Martin from Faith and Life Bookstore will review a few books. Annelle Claassen (Retreat Committee Chair) will lead singing, and Karen Mascho (Pastor and Retreat Committee) will lead communion together. No masks required! For free registration or questions, send your email to Tammy Duvanel Unruh at 2020womensretreat.rsvp@gmail.com Save the date and we look forward to seeing your whole face!

Join KIPCOR ONLINE for their 2020-2021 Film Series
On Sunday, September 13, at 2:00 PM KIPCOR will be hosting a ZOOM call featuring the film “Selma: The Bridge to the Ballot”, produced by the group Teaching Tolerance.
This film tells the story of a courageous group of Alabama students and teachers who fought nonviolently against a century of Jim Crow in a segregationist state to win voting rights for African Americans. These change-makers overcame violence, arrest, and even murder to achieve one of the most significant victories of the civil rights era.
The talk-back session after the film will feature Larry Burks, Sr., the President of the Wichita Branch of the NAACP.
You can find out more, and register to participate, on the KIPCOR website at http://kipcor.org/ Advance registration is required.

Announcements for August 21-28, 2020

Hello!
This week’s “Hello” video comes from Barbara Thiesen. Barbara has taken on more worship responsibility during Pastor Dawn Yoder Harms sabbatical and is filling the role of Worship Planning Coordinator. Hear more from her about her responsibilities in her 1 minute hello video!

Sympathy notices
Please hold Helen Nachtigal and family in your prayers as they mourn the sudden death of Frank Nachtigal on August 17. Funeral arrangements are pending.

We share with you the sad news that Nancy Jo Mueller died , August 20, after being put on hospice care on August 19 in Colorado Springs, CO. Please keep her parents, Jim and Melanie Mueller, and her sister Rebecca Mueller, in your prayers and care during this very difficult time. Arrangements are pending and will be shared when they become available. ~ Pastor Renee Reimer

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: This is a month of change for Mennonite Mission Network’s Mennonite Voluntary Service participants. Pray for those who are transitioning from their completed assignments to study or work. Pray also for those who are beginning to learn and serve in Alamosa (Colorado), San Francisco, and Washington, D.C.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for the WDC Stewardship Commission as they meet this week, tending to the financial health of the conference, and promoting generosity and sharing of resources to further the mission of WDC.

Offering at BCMC for August 16-23, 2020: General Fund $8,955.33; Living Stones $15; Elevator Repair $600.

Bethel College Student Donations
The Bethel College Relations Team is seeking nonperishable items to give to Bethel College students during their first week of class. We are looking for items such as: ramen noodles, microwavable meals (like mac and cheese), popcorn, etc. We would also welcome masks and travel size hand sanitizer to hand out to students who may need some. Please bring your donations to church and leave them by the white table outside of the church office. Contact Pastor Renee if you have questions.

Other Announcements

The Bethel College Women’s Association (BCWA) is now online! See bcwamarketonline.com

Mennonite Central Committee announcements
· Mennonite Central Committee is accepting donations to support people in need of food and other assistance in Beirut, Lebanon. A massive explosion on Aug. 4 destroyed the country’s main port and silos filled with grain and worsened an existing economic crisis. You can donate online at mcc.org/beirut-response, by calling (888) 563-4676 or by sending a check earmarked for “Beirut response” to MCC, 21 S. 12^th St., Akron PA 17501.
· MCC is in need of school kits to fulfill requests from our partners around the world! Complete kits and/or supplies (find a full list of items at mcc.org/kits) can be shipped to MCC Central States (121 E. 30^th St. North Newton, KS 67117) or dropped off in the 24-hour donation room at MCC. If you would like help unloading, please contact Kate at (katemast@mcc.org, ‪(316) 804-8432) to schedule a drop off time. Thank you for your continued support of MCC!
· Mennonite Central Committee is looking to fill several essential positions in the U.S. and around the world. We hope you’ll consider applying or give encouragement to someone else who might be interested in serving with MCC.
· Canner Operator: MCC is looking for new canner operators! This two year service term is unique and offers the opportunity to travel around the U.S. and Canada, working as a team while meeting new people! Check out https://mcc.org/get-involved/canning for details!
· Director of MCC U.S. National Advocacy and Program: Are you a team leader ready to provide vision, develop strong relationships with diverse groups and engage in policy advocacy? MCC is currently looking for the Director of MCC U.S. National Advocacy and Program. The director is a senior management position in MCC U.S., responsible for the overall leadership and coordination of advocacy and national program. Find out more and apply at mcc.org/get-involved/serve/openings/director-mcc-us-national-advocacy-program
· UN Office Program and Communications Coordinator: Are you, or someone you know, passionate about advocacy and raising the voice of the grassroots on a global level? MCC is currently searching for the UN Office Program and Communications Coordinator. The position carries significant advocacy, research, analysis, writing, speaking, networking, and event planning responsibilities, as well as office administration. Application deadline is Sept 7, 2020. For more information or to apply please visit mcc.org/get-involved/serve/openings/mcc-un-office-program-communications-coordinator
· Seed Program: Hola! Estas interesado(a) en aprender o practicar tu español? MCC is looking for young adults for its Seed programs in Colombia and Guatemala/El Salvador which offer experiential learning and formation focused on Reflection, Service and Peacebuilding. Application deadline is October 19, 2020. For more information or to apply, please visit https://mcc.org/get-involved/serve/openings

Camp Mennoscah announcements
· Mental Health Spiritual Retreat at Camp Mennoscah will be a one-day event on Monday, September 7. This retreat is for those affected by mental illness, including friends and family. Activities will be outside. We will follow social distancing and mask guidelines. Please bring a mask with you. Those interested in attending the retreat should contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290.
· Limited number of openings! Camp Mennoscah’s Scrapbook and Crafts Retreats will take place on Oct. 30-Nov. 1 and Nov. 6-8. Masks and physical distancing guidelines will be followed and the facility used has been changed. More spaces will be opened as determined safe and feasible, so put your name on the waitlist! Register online at campmennoscah.org! Call 620-297-3290 for further information.
· Camp Mennoscah welcomes guests! Camping areas and cabins are open to guests/groups for overnight stays and day visits. Spend time in the river, have a campfire cookout, and enjoy the open spaces of the tallgrass prairie and the Ninnescah River! Contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290 to make a reservation and to inquire about use of additional facilities. We can’t wait to see you!
· Camp Mennoscah’s main phone number (620-297-3290) will be answered between the hours of 8:30 am and 5:00 pm on weekdays. Emails will also be answered within the same basic time frame, depending on staff work hours. Outside of these hours, you may be able to reach camp staff, but there are no guarantees. Please leave a message or send an email and we’ll be in touch as soon as possible.

Western District Conference announcements:
· Report from a Review of Western District Conference Culture and Responsibilities – In September 2018 the WDC Executive Board directed WDC leadership to conduct an internal review of WDC Culture and Responsibilities — to learn from the experience of processing ministerial misconduct and sexual abuse responses and to understand and strengthen WDC’s accountability and ministry practices. This review focused on how WDC engages with credentialed ministers as well as congregations and their leaders when responding to complex challenges and crises and how this is shaped by WDC practices, polity and programs and by expectations, support and accountability for WDC conference ministry staff. These areas of concern were identified for the review: 1) Relationship between WDC and its congregations; 2) Leadership relationships within WDC; 3) Resourcing, support and accountability for credentialed ministers, congregations and congregational leaders for prevention of and response to sexual abuse; 4) Support, accountability and resources for WDC Conference Minister and Associate Conference Ministers; 5) Specific issues regarding MC USA’s Ministerial Sexual Misconduct Policy and Procedure and implications for future implementation of the policy and procedure in WDC. The Executive Board has now concluded the review process, which will provide ongoing guidance and priorities for WDC’s work in the future. A summary report from the review is posted on the WDC website at https://mennowdc.org/identity/. Questions or comments may be directed to Heidi Regier Kreider, Conference Minister.
· Racial Justice from the US to Palestine:  The WDC Israel-Palestine Task Force invites you to celebrate the International Day of Peace with a virtual conversation on racial justice. Palestinians Alex Awad and Jonathan Kuttab join US citizen Sarah Nahar. They’ll share their own experiences of injustice and hope and discuss the similarities in both contexts. Join us for this free live event sponsored by WDC Resource Commission on WDC’s Facebook page on September 21, 7 pm Central Time. You’re welcome to donate to WDC at:  mennowdc.org.
· Western District Women’s Retreat 2020: And now for something completely different! After much discussion and prayer, the Western District Women in Mission Retreat Committee has decided not to meet in person at Camp Mennoscah this year. We will miss all of you and the energy and joy you bring to camp. However, we WILL gather virtually on Saturday night, September 12 from 7:00-8:30 PM via Zoom for a worship service. Our goal is to connect to and encourage each other through Christ and His love for us. Susan Jantzen (interim pastor of Worship/Visitation at First Mennonite in Newton) will lead us on “Reflections on God as Keeper.” Bethany Martin from Faith and Life Bookstore will review a few books. Annelle Claassen (Retreat Committee Chair) will lead singing, and Karen Mascho (Pastor and Retreat Committee) will lead communion together. No masks required! For free registration or questions, send your email to Tammy Duvanel Unruh at 2020womensretreat.rsvp@gmail.com   Save the date and we look forward to seeing your whole face!
· What seeds are growing in WDC? Each issue of the WDC Garden (quarterly newsletter) in 2020 will feature some “seeds” – brief highlights from congregations about new initiatives, creative ideas, missional practices and connections within WDC. If you have some “seeds” to suggest for consideration in the Garden, please send a note to WDC at wdc@mennowdc.org!

Mennonite church announcement
Join the growing culture of discipleship in the church! Save your spot in the next Missional Discipleship Initiative cohort. Visit MennoniteMission.net/MDI and sign up for the next MDI cycle, starting Sept. 1.

Announcements for August 14–21, 2020

Hello!
The BCMC staff are beginning to make weekly “Hello” videos. Check out this week’s hello from Pastor Renee to learn more about what is going on at BCMC and to meet some special guests.

Larry Friesen passed away at his home on Saturday, August 8 after a long struggle with Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). A private inurnment service will be held at Greenwood Cemetery in Newton on Friday, August 14. A larger memorial service will be held at Bethel College Mennonite Church at a later date in 2021. Please keep his wife Donna June and daughter Katy June-Friesen and son-in-law Christian Samaniego, and brother Duane K. Friesen and Elizabeth Friesen and all of the extended family in your prayers as they grieve his loss. Memorials can be given to Bethel College Department of Social Work, 300 E. 27th Street, North Newton, KS, 67117 or
Good Shepherd Hospice, 301 N Main, Suite 300, Newton, KS, 67114 or
Mennonite Central Committee, 121 E. 30th Street, North Newton, KS, 67117.

Pastor Nathan Koontz will be on vacation next week from Monday, August 17 through Saturday, August 22. For pastoral care needs, please contact Pastor Renee Reimer or the church office.

We offer sympathy to Mel and Mary Sue Voth on the death of Mel’s brother, Roy Voth of ElDorado, Monday, August 10. He had recently moved to Homestead Retirement Center in ElDorado. Roy became critically ill about 10 days ago, and after several days of hospitalization at St. Joe Hospital in Wichita, returned to Homestead for Hospice Comfort Care. Roy had increasingly worsening of his Dementia Symptoms as well as general declining of his health. Due to COVID RESTRICTIONS services will be limited to visitation at Carlsen Funeral Home in Eldorado, Friday, August 14 from 5:00 to 8:00 pm with family present from 5:00 to 6:00. Private burial service will be in Tabor Mennonite Church Cemetery on Saturday morning.

The family of Dorothy Harder invites you to “shower” her with cards in honor of her 90th birthday on August 22, 2020. Send cards to Dorothy Harder, 3012 Ivy Drive, N. Newton, KS 67117. Thank you!

Western District Conference Annual Assembly Reflection
Western District Conference Annual Assembly was held virtually this year on Saturday, August 1 over Zoom. This year, Bethel College Mennonite Church had 14 delegates in attendance at the assembly: Patty Shelly, Dale Schrag, Rosalind Andreas, Frank Stucky, Dianne Epp, John Waltner, Dick Koontz, Vern Preheim, Norma Johnson, Jim Robb, Jeanette Leary, Marlene Faul, Nathan Koontz, and Renee Reimer. Below are a few reflections about the assembly.

Western District Conference – Webinar, August 1, 2020
“Growing in Faith Wherever You Are: Boxes, Bundles, or Books Which is Right for You?” by Jennie Wintermote, WDC Resource Library Director
During Western District Conference I tuned in to the webinar about the Western District Conference Resource Library led by Jennie Wintermote. In addition to a general overview of the library she spent some time sharing about the “Books in a Box” program in which churches can apply to receive a box of books from the library for their use. When enrolling in the program the congregation fills out a survey providing information on congregational demographics as well as general information on the types of books they would like to receive. She showed a box with 25 typical books that she might send to a church. Another interesting program which she has recently begun is to acquire multiple copies of a title so that churches can borrow a set of books for small group study such as for a Sunday School class. Particular titles of interest recently have had to do with immigration, race relations and creation care. ~ Dianne Epp
Western District Conference – Webinar, August 1, 2020
“Real Live Faith” a panel of 4 young people facilitated by Asia Frye
The four young people were very diverse in their congregational experiences from being the only high schooler in his church to a gal from a fairly large youth group. Trust is very important especially relating to a youth pastor. For congregational members youth would love to have members be interested in their activities and visit with them about that. One gal said she was neither in sports nor music and adults did not seem to know how to relate to her. She felt left out. She said young people communicate by social media and are interested in promoting racial equality. Her communication on social media is mostly with her peers. In social medial you can express your beliefs and rally support. An advocate for faith and integration is needed. Adults need to listen to youth as they do have ideas and want some power. Adults are to provide more than money. Relationships are very important and youth want to be included and be trusted. ~ Marlene Faul
Western District Conference – August 1, 2020—Delegate Session
The Western District Conference Assembly was a unique experience this year. Many people have been experiencing online work now for quite a few months which has included virtual meetings with co-workers. I have only had a few experiences with Zoom meetings and was curious how the whole WDC Assembly would play out. I was pleasantly surprised!
The delegate assembly on Saturday morning was very well organized and technically brilliant! While listening in, I heard a term that I had not previously come across and it made me want to learn more. Someone asked a question about whether the Church Planting Commission has done much work with “Replanting” churches with reference to the many established legacy churches that exist in our area. The answer was “yes” and we were encouraged to check out the video snapshots that have been posted on the WDC website and, in particular, the Beatrice Mennonite Church. They are undergoing a “replanting” which is basically saying that “ideas and practices related to church planting can be applied to existing churches as a renewal strategy”. (from WDC Church Planting Commission video snapshot) I was thoroughly inspired by watching this and all of the other short, 1-3 minute, videos from many of the churches in the WDC! I challenge you to take an hour out of your day to see what congregations around the area are doing to bloom right where they are “RE” planted! ~ Jeanette Leary

This year we’re looking forward to hearing stories through video of our WDC congregations, Commissions, Committees and task Forces. Each group has been asked to share a single “snapshot” of some ministry they’ve been passionately engaged in this past year.

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Nemi Chigoji provides leadership for the Nigerian Anabaptist Resource Center, a Mennonite Mission Network partner. Pray for Rev. Chigoji as he works in California and Nigeria, training Anabaptist pastors in peacebuilding, mediation, and holistic ministry.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC congregations in pastoral transition, as they discern God’s direction for future leadership and priorities in the midst of the uncertainties of today’s world.

Offering at BCMC for August 9-16, 2020: General Fund $11,997; Gen Fund 2021 $11,589.14; Caring Fund $325; Organ Fund $500; Living Stones $1,380; Elevator Repair $625

Porch Project
Thanks to those of you who have participated in the Porch Project. Keep your photos coming! You can send them to Pastor Renee at renee@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org. Follow this link to see the faces of 60+ BCMCers: https://cruxphotos.smugmug.com/BCMC-Porch/
PLEASE NOTE: these photos are meant to be enjoyed by our church community. Please do not share them (via social media, etc) unless you have received permission of the people in the photo.

Other Announcements
Hesston Mennonite Church, Hesston, KS seeks a part-time Office Manager. The Office Manager provides administrative duties that promote teamwork and efficiency in support of the pastoral staff, church governing body, its commissions and other church ministries. This position serves as the church receptionist and coordinates the overall functions of the church office to include bulletin and newsletter creation, coordination of volunteers within the office and for special events, and keeping the in-house data management system up to date with congregational changes. This position has some financial responsibilities to include accounts payable. Ideal candidates will have a high school diploma or some college, and two years working in a similar administrative position. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are important. Candidates should be familiar with Microsoft Office and be willing to work in other computer programs as needed. Soft skills include a friendly, calm approach to church visitors and the pastoral staff, ability to organize and create efficient processes for the church office, and attention to detail. Must be capable of maintaining strict confidentiality in regard to office matters. Please send cover letter and resume to personnel@hesstonmc.org.

Learning opportunities from Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary:
Deepen your understanding of Anabaptism through six-week, online short courses from AMBS! Explore Anabaptist history, theology, current practice, commitment to peacemaking, approaches to scripture, and how to transform congregational conflict and communication. These non-credit courses feature optional weekly Zoom conversations with professors along with readings and written discussion forums. No papers and no grades! Sign up for individual courses or for the “short course bundle” at ambs.edu/shortcourses.
Prepare to lead worship and singing drawing on the vast resources of the Voices Together hymnal through two new AMBS online short courses–one for worship planners and leaders and one for song leaders. Both courses will feature guest instructors Katie Graber and Anneli Loepp Thiessen. Sign up at ambs.edu/shortcourses.

Camp Mennoscah announcements
Mental Health Spiritual Retreat at Camp Mennoscah will be a one-day event on Monday, September 7. This retreat is for those affected by mental illness, including friends and family. Activities will be outside. We will follow social distancing and mask guidelines. Please bring a mask with you. Those interested in attending the retreat should contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290.
Men and Boys Retreat at Camp Mennoscah has been canceled for 2020. Men and boys (with adult supervision) and families are invited to contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290 about overnight stays or day visits. We’ll see you soon!
Camp Mennoscah welcomes guests! Camping areas and cabins are open to guests/groups for overnight stays and day visits. Spend time in the river, have a campfire cookout, and enjoy the open spaces of the tallgrass prairie and the Ninnescah River! Contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290 to make a reservation and to inquire about use of additional facilities. We can’t wait to see you!
Camp Mennoscah’s main phone number (620-297-3290) will be answered between the hours of 8:30 am and 5:00 pm on weekdays. Emails will also be answered within the same basic time frame, depending on staff work hours. Outside of these hours, you may be able to reach camp staff, but there are no guarantees. Please leave a message or send an email and we’ll be in touch as soon as possible.

Announcements for August 7-14, 2020

New faces will be appearing in worship!
As you may have noticed, we’ve had a strong crew of people leading worship over the last 4 months. They’ve included pastors, staff, and their families leading music and worship together. As we move forward with this new time of worshiping together at a distance, we are beginning to incorporate new faces into worship by using 4 different worship teams. These teams will take turns leading music and worship each Sunday from August until the beginning of Advent so we can share leadership responsibilities and see more faces from within our church community. Below is a description of each team and the gifts and callings they will bring as they lead worship during the next few months. If you have interest in organizing, leading, or participating in a worship team during or after Advent please let Renee Reimer, Nathan Koontz, or Barbara Thiesen know!
Choral Worship Team
William Eash, Esther Kreider Eash, Verlene Garber, Ron Garber, John Mark Koontz, Renee Reimer, and Barbara Thiesen
This worship team has been leading online worship for the past 4 months and has created quite the rhythm when making music together. The musical gifts that this group brings will be rich harmony and choral pieces as well as the familiar sounds of the BCMC organ.
Youth Worship Team
Jonah Scholenger (Newton High School senior), Simon Koontz (Newton High School sophomore), John Mark Koontz (Newton High School senior), Marlene Ewert, and Cliff Dick
Jonah, Simon, and John Mark have been creating and exploring music as they’ve grown up together in North Newton. These 3 have held down the rhythm section at Newton High School and participated in several community and statewide ensembles. The musical gifts that this ensemble will bring will be filled with strong instrumental hymn variations. Cliff Dick and Marlene Ewert will begin as 2020-2021 youth sponsors and have also agreed to be worship leaders with this new worship team.
Agape Sunday School Class Worship Team
Various members of Agape Sunday School Class
Many musicians and leaders fill the seats of the Agape Sunday School Class! With this worship team the gifts we will experience will include strong string instruments and choral hymn singing. You may even see faces of youth and children as they participate alongside their parents occasionally too!
Young(er) Adult Worship Team
Bethany Schrag, Tim Schrag, Ben Lichti, Renee Reimer, Suzy Burch, Dave Linscheid, and Cynthia Linscheid
This crew of folks have all enjoyed making music for much of their lives. The musical gifts this group will bring will include exquisite four-part a cappella singing, guitar, and keyboard music.

The family of Dorothy Harder invites you to “shower” her with cards in honor of her 90th birthday on August 22, 2020. Send cards to Dorothy Harder, 3012 Ivy Drive, N. Newton, KS 67117. Thank you!

Issaka (Carlos) Dabonne, who David and Heidi Regier Kreider were hosting in the MCC International Volunteer Exchange Program (IVEP) returned last week to Burkina Faso, after completing his term of volunteer work at the MCC Central States Center. Before leaving the MCC Welcoming Place in Akron, PA, Issaka sent this message:
“Assembly of BCMC, dear faithful, I thank God who gave me this opportunity being a part of your assembly. Thanks to all of you for hosting me. May God still bless BCMC”. – Issaka Dabonne, IVEPer from Burkina Faso.

Support MCC and celebrate MCC’s centennial with a new shirt, hoodie, tea towel, bag or hat! Check out this online store set up by the Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale to place your order today (pssst, it’s never too early to start Christmas shopping!). Visit wearatomic.com/product-category/mcc/ and start shopping to support MCC!

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Delicia Bravo and Peter Wigginton, serving with Mennonite Mission Network, request prayer for Ecuador where COVID-19 cases continue to rise and the economic situation worsens. Pray for Quito Mennonite Church as the congregation inaugurates a seed grant initiative this month to help people get back on their feet.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for children and youth in WDC congregations, and for their families, teachers and mentors, as preparations for a new school year unfold in the face of challenging circumstances.

Offering at BCMC for August 2-9, 2020: General Fund $2,032; Living Stones $5; Elevator Repair $1,400.

Other Announcements

Everence will host a Social Security and retirement income planning webinar, on Tuesday, August 11 at 6:30 p.m. Attendees will learn about Social Security strategies, risks that can impact retirement savings and strategies to help income last throughout retirement. The workshop is free. Register soon by contacting our office at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com.

Hesston Mennonite Church, Hesston, KS seeks a part-time Office Manager. The Office Manager provides administrative duties that promote teamwork and efficiency in support of the pastoral staff, church governing body, its commissions and other church ministries. This position serves as the church receptionist and coordinates the overall functions of the church office to include bulletin and newsletter creation, coordination of volunteers within the office and for special events, and keeping the in-house data management system up to date with congregational changes. This position has some financial responsibilities to include accounts payable. Ideal candidates will have a high school diploma or some college, and two years working in a similar administrative position. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are important. Candidates should be familiar with Microsoft Office and be willing to work in other computer programs as needed. Soft skills include a friendly, calm approach to church visitors and the pastoral staff, ability to organize and create efficient processes for the church office, and attention to detail. Must be capable of maintaining strict confidentiality in regard to office matters. Please send cover letter and resume to personnel@hesstonmc.org.

Western District Conference announcements:
Thanks to all who attended WDC’s 2020 online assembly last weekend! At Saturday morning’s business session, delegates heard the conference minister’s state-of-the-conference reflections and a financial update, approved the budget for 2021 and elected leaders for the coming year. Comments and questions addressed topics such as WDC’s application for a CARES Act Payroll Protection Program loan, equipping existing congregations in conjunction with church planting initiatives, and affirmation for Camp Mennoscah’s ongoing mission in these challenging times. The session concluded with a resolution of thanks for all involved in making Assembly possible, and recognition of outgoing moderator Ray Reimer and transition to new moderator Lois Barrett. Saturday afternoon, participants attended webinars on: Missional in the Age of Covid; Growing in Faith Wherever You Are: Boxes, Bundles, or Books Which is Right for You?; Real Live Faith; and Voices Together. And on Sunday, many WDC congregations and members joined in watching the Assembly worship service. If you were not able to attend Assembly events, you may go to “WDC Assembly 2020” on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6aO7e884ZT5d9gHzyrfAucccOFYYd_M5 and watch the videos.

WDC Questionnaire is for ALL: Everyone is encouraged to fill out a WDC Questionnaire – those who participated in the Annual Assembly and those who didn’t – we’d like to hear from everyone. There are some questions about the role and ministries of WDC that we hope you will answer. Find the link here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScnlSX5ibg9z87BQOQBm-MkddjpjrurDdIz61SW5JWtCIKVZw/viewform.

Racial Justice from the US to Palestine: The WDC Israel-Palestine Task Force invites you to a virtual conversation on racial justice. Palestinians Alex Awad and Jonathan Kuttab join US citizen Sarah Nahar. They’ll share their own experiences of injustice and hope and discuss the similarities in both contexts. Join us for this free live event on WDC’s Facebook page on September 21, 7 pm Central Time. You’re welcome to donate to WDC at: mennowdc.org.

Camp Mennoscah announcements
Men and Boys Retreat has been canceled for 2020. Men and boys (with adult supervision) and families are invited to contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290 about overnight stays or day visits.

Prepare to lead worship and singing drawing on the vast resources of the Voices Together hymnal through two new AMBS online short courses–one for worship planners and leaders and one for song leaders. Both courses will feature guest instructors Katie Graber and Anneli Loepp Thiessen. Sign up at ambs.edu/shortcourses.

Service Adventure has open spots for the 2020-2021 term beginning this fall. If you are interested in taking a gap year to serve, live in community, and grow spiritually, contact SusanN@MennoniteMission.net or apply online at MennoniteMission.net/ServiceAdventure.

Urgent Prayer Request
Erwin Mirabal, Venezuela, and José Manuel Guamán, Ecuador
Thank you for praying for Erwin Mirabal, president of the Mennonite Church in Venezuela and pastor of the Caracas congregation, when we sent the urgent prayer request two weeks ago. With medication and oxygen, Pastor Mirabal remained in stable condition. However, he died unexpectedly Aug. 5. Mennonite Mission Network, along with his family, the churches in Venezuela, and the Venezuelan Partnership (Colombia Mennonite Church, Central Plains Conference, and Mennonite Mission Network) feel this loss deeply. Pastor Mirabal led many people to a new life in Christ and worked creatively and tirelessly to help the most vulnerable people in the Venezuelan context. Please join us in praying for his family and all those whom his ministry touched. May they have a deep sense of God’s presence in this time of loss and sorrow.

We also ask you to pray for José Manuel Guamán, president of Iglesia Cristiana Menonita de Ecuador, the predominantly indigenous Mennonite conference in Ecuador. Guamán also contracted COVID-19 and his family asks us to join them in praying for a full recovery for him.

Announcements for July 31-August 7 2020

BCMC Sunday Worship will be the Western District Conference Annual Assembly Worship This Sunday (August 2) we invite all in the Bethel College Mennonite Church to join in worship with sister churches of the Western District Conference as we virtually gather for our annual assembly. BCMC will not be conducting its own service this Sunday. You can participate in the WDC Annual Assembly by going to the “Western District Conference (Mennonite Church USA)” facebook page. See the below announcement from WDC for more details regarding the worship service and other ways that you can participate in the virtual assembly.

The WDC Assembly will take place virtually this weekend, here are the instructions you will need to join: You must have the free Zoom application (https://zoom.us/support/download) loaded onto your device (smartphone or tablet, or computer with a camera and microphone). If your computer does not have a built-in microphone and camera, external webcams can be purchased. Make sure to have this Zoom application downloaded before August 1.

DELEGATE SESSION – August 1, 9:00 am Registered Delegates: Click on this Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81045306800?pwd=WmU1WUhWN0g4TXM1Sk5rREtFdi9jUT09, Passcode: 258901

All Others: On Facebook, go to the “Western District Conference (Mennonite Church USA)” page, (click here for the page) click on Events, and click on the Annual Assembly Delegate Session. A comment monitor will be available to share important comments with the WDC Moderator.

WEBINARS AND CONVERSATION WITH DANNY CARROLL – August 1, 1:00 pm, 2:15 pm, 3:30 pm See the Western District Conference website (https://mennowdc.org/2020-wdc-annual-assembly-webinars/) for webinar options and Zoom links. At the start time of the webinar option or conversation you want to join, click on the red Zoom link under the description to automatically connect to that webinar.

Alternative Method: At the start time of the webinar/conversation you want to join, on Facebook, go to the “Western District Conference (Mennonite Church USA)” page, click on Events, and click on the selected webinar/conversation Zoom link.

WORSHIP – August 2, 10:00 am Facebook Live: Go to the “Western District Conference (Mennonite Church USA)” Facebook page, click to join the event “WDC Annual Assembly Worship in English” OR “WDC Annual Assembly Worship in Spanish.” Your chosen worship video will begin automatically at 10 am. Once the video begins, you are invited to share your first name and congregation in the Comments section to let others know who is present. You are also welcome to share in the joy by “liking” the event or by offering brief comments along the way.

STILL HAVE TECHICAL QUESTIONS? Contact our Assembly tech specialist, Ryan, at ryan.goertzen@gmail.com

For complete information about WDC Assembly, see: https://mennowdc.org/2020-wdc-annual-assembly/

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Michael J. Sherrill begins his ministry as Mennonite Mission Network’s executive director this month. Pray for him as he relates to partners and workers, conferences, and congregations “to equip and empower the church to engage their culture and world with the whole gospel.”

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for a spirit of sharing and fellowship in WDC, as congregations and members join together today in online worship as part of 2020 Annual Assembly.

Offering at BCMC for July 19-26, 2020: General Fund $2,562; Living Stones $60; Peace Garden $2,000; Women’s Fellowship $100.

Below is a forwarded message from Brad Kohlman, vice president for institutional advancement at Bethel College. In an effort to provide the safest possible campus we can for our students when they return this fall, we are asking for donations of masks so we are able to provide each student with multiple masks. We are looking forward to seeing students back on campus-some will start arriving in less than a week!-as the social aspect of college is of utmost importance to their education and faith formation. ~ From Ben Lichti, Bethel College Coordinator for Alumni and Church Relations
Do you have skills with a sewing machine? If so, you can help provide a safer campus for our students, faculty, and staff by making masks. I learned to sew earlier this month with the goal of making as many masks as I could with leftover fabric from my wife’s and my mother-in law’s stash. It quickly became a fun family project with many helping hands for a worthwhile cause. Use any simple mask pattern you already have. You can drop masks off at Thresher Shop in Schultz Student Center, or send them to:

Masks for Threshers
Bethel College Advancement Office
300 E. 27th St.
North Newton, KS 67117
If sewing isn’t your thing, you can donate to the Masks for Threshers fund.

Porch Project
Thanks to those of you who have participated in the Porch Project. Keep your photos coming! You can send them to Pastor Renee at renee@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org. Follow this link to see the faces of 60+ BCMCers: https://cruxphotos.smugmug.com/BCMC-Porch/ PLEASE NOTE: these photos are meant to be enjoyed by our church community. Please do not share them (via social media, etc) unless you have received permission of the people in the photo.

KONE has completed its work to repair the elevator, for which we are grateful! Unanticipated additional expenses increased the overall cost by $12,806. The plant fund, bequest monies, and designated donations have covered nearly 88% of the cost, but we still need to fundraise nearly $8,000. You can give to the cause by sending a check to the church office or giving electronically (on website: SUPPORT BCMC) and designating your contribution to the elevator fund. If you mail your check, please make it out to BCMC with “Elevator” in the memo line. Address it to: Bethel College Mennonite Church, PO Box 364, North Newton, KS, 67117. (Monica collects the mail every day and distributes it.) Thanks in advance for your support!

Other Announcements

The Harvey County Food and Farm Council just published a “Local Food Guide for Harvey County and Beyond“. It lists local farmers who are willing to sell directly to consumers. The guide can be viewed on the web at https://www.harveycounty.com/foodandfarm/resources.html There are also copies in the church office.

Announcements for July 24-31, 2020

Pastor Renee will be on vacation from July 24-31. During this time she will be unavailable as she will be collecting mountain climbing illustrations for upcoming sermons.

Thanks to those who have been participating in the Under the Shade Tree Bible Study this spring – summer. This group will take a break, beginning July 27, longer term plans to be determined. As pastors, we’ve appreciated your engagement that has helped us prepare for Sunday morning worship and preaching!

Porch Project: Thanks to those of you who have participated in the Porch Project. Keep your photos coming! You can send them to Pastor Renee at renee@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org. Follow this link to see the faces of 60+ BCMCers: https://cruxphotos.smugmug.com/BCMC-Porch/
PLEASE NOTE: these photos are meant to be enjoyed by our church community. Please do not share them (via social media, etc) unless you have received permission of the people in the photo.

Announcements

We very much appreciate the cards, food, and caring thoughts from this community following the death of Miner’s sister Nancy. We are blessed to be part of the BCMC community and want to offer you our sincere thanks. Miner and Valetta Seymour

Thanks to the BCMC Church family for all the lovely cards sent in honor of my 80th birthday. I received over 100 cards that made for a very special day in a very unusual time. Your efforts made my birthday special.” Marilyn Stucky

Western District Conference announcements:
Living in Exile WDC Assembly Scriptures: Please read and pray over Jeremiah 29:4 and following and 1 Peter 2:11-12, our Assembly scriptures. Ponder what God might be telling us about how to live out the good news in times of trial, injustice, and fear. There will be chances to talk together during live webinars and during the 3:30 pm Zoom conversation with Danny Carroll R on August 1. https://mennowdc.org/2020-wdc-annual-assembly/
WDC Assembly Video Snapshots: Have you gone to WDC Assembly 2020 on YouTube yet? There are some great stories about WDC churches and the ministries of our various commissions, stories of following Jesus today. You’ll learn things and be inspired. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6aO7e884ZT5d9gHzyrfAucccOFYYd_M5
Looking forward to the Women and Girls Retreat at Camp Mennoscah? The Annual Spring Supper? Help make these events possible by joining the Western District Women in Mission Executive Council! There are nine open positions including: vice president, secretary, treasurer, one position on the Women and Girls Retreat Committee, two positions on the Communications Team, and three positions on the Nominating Committee. A wide variety of openings means we have a place for you and your unique talents and interests. You can help ensure the future of WDWM programming by volunteering for one of these positions. If you are interested in supporting the mission of WDWM by filling one of these roles, email westerndistrictwomen@gmail.com.

Camp Mennoscah announcements
Camp Mennoscah is open to families, individuals, and groups for days and overnights. The number of groups on campgrounds is limited and each family/group will have their own bathroom. Canoes are available for use; paddles and lifejackets are checked out and disinfected after use. Contact us at office@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290. Spend some time at the river, on the trails, or simply enjoying this sacred space.
Camp in a Box from Camp Mennoscah–The vast majority of Camp in the Boxes and tee shirts have been distributed. If you have not received yours (and we have not been in touch), please contact Camp Mennoscah at office@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290. We’ll get it figured out!
The annual Camp Sing scheduled for August 8 has also been cancelled. Staff will continue to brainstorm options for events that can be done safely!

Mennonite church announcements
Everence webinars available:
https://www.everence.com/everence-events/national-advisors-and-representatives/recorded-webinars-past

The Mennonite Heritage and Agricultural Museum, Goessel, will have a benefit Bierock Carry-out Meal. Saturday, August 1, 11 am to 1 pm (while supplies last). The meal is a free-will donation or $10 suggested donation. New Year’s Cookies will also be available by the half dozen and dozen. Suggested donations: $5 and $10, respectively. Look for the arrows to direct traffic past the museum’s Prep School, 200 N. Poplar, Goessel. No reservation needed.
Mennonite Church USA has put together a collection of laments, written by pastors, leaders, lay people and students, on the recent and persistent violence of racism. You are invited to pray and lament along with them: http://mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/lament-violence-of-racism/
Menno Snapshots: In “Reflections on protesting and faith,” two members of Pasadena Mennonite Church – a Guatemalan mestizo immigrant and a white university professor – discuss the cost of following Christ. Read more: http://mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/reflections-protesting-and-faith/
Menno Snapshots: Tobin Miller Shearer, co-founder of the Damascus Road Anti-Racism Process, stresses the importance of working together in racially integrated settings in his blog, “The discipline and practice of white caucusing.” http://mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/white-caucusing/
Join the growing culture of discipleship in the church! Save your spot in the next Missional Discipleship Initiative cohort. Visit MennoniteMission.net/MDI and sign up for the next MDI cycle, starting Sept. 1!

Labor Day Work and Play Retreat is a weekend for families and individuals to volunteer at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp. The weekend focuses on work projects, keeping the ministry of camp operating, while also offering a free day on Sunday to enjoy the beautiful mountain. The retreat is scheduled for September 4-7, 2020. Camp will make a decision two-weeks prior to the retreat using current information from state and local agencies to hold the retreat, cancel, or make necessary changes similar to the adjustments made on Memorial Day Work & Play Retreat. In the meantime, plan to join us. You can register online at rmmc.org or call camp at 719-687-9506.

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: July 31 is Stanley W. Green’s last day as Mennonite Mission Network’s executive director after 27 years of faithful service. Pray for Stanley and his wife, Ursula, as they settle in California where Stanley will work as conference minister for the Pacific Southwest Mennonite Conference. Ask God’s wisdom for Michael J. Sherrill as he becomes executive director on August 1.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for the Holy Spirit to empower and guide WDC’s online gathering for Annual Assembly next weekend, as we engage the theme “Living in Exile.

Mennonite Central Committee is hosting virtual alumni gatherings for four of the world regions where MCC works: Latin America and Caribbean, Asia, Europe & Middle East and Africa. And you are invited! Join us for this special time to hear updates from Area Directors about current programming, share stories of service experiences and engage in small group discussions to connect with your MCC friends or meet others who served in the same world region. Find out specific dates, times and register at mcc.org/virtual-alumni-gatherings. Questions? Please contact heidihuber@mcc.org or call 316.283.2720.

Job opening: Mennonite Men, the men’s organization of Mennonite Church USA and Mennonite Church Canada, has an open quarter time position in Communications and Marketing. To see a description of this position, visit MennoniteMen.org or contact Steve Thomas at SteveT@MennoniteMen.org. Resumes are due by August 3.

Announcements for July 17-26, 2020

Thanks to those of you who posed for a photo or have sent your pictures to us for The Porch Project! Follow this link to see the faces of 60+ BCMCers: https://cruxphotos.smugmug.com/BCMC-Porch/
This project is ongoing, and photos will be continually added as we receive them. If you have a recent photo of yourself or your family that you’d be willing to contribute to the project, please send it to Renee Reimer renee@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org).
PLEASE NOTE: these photos are meant to be enjoyed by our church community. Please do not share them (via social media, etc) unless you have received permission of the people in the photo.
Thanks to Weldon Schloneger for making this project accessible to us through his photo site!

Connor Born has been serving with Mennonite Voluntary Service in Alamosa, Colorado this past year. He recently decided to extend his term for another year.

The Reopening Church Task Group continues its evolving discernment of being church together in caring love amidst spiraling spread of COVID-19. As of this writing, Harvey County reports a total of 102 positive cases and community spread. At our last task group meeting on July 8, we listened to your responses to our recent survey. In response to the question “Given the required safety precautions and assessment of your personal risk, when would you be most interested in returning to in-person worship?”, we heard a resounding word of caution about regathering for in-person worship, with very little support for beginning worship in August or September. Most of you said your willingness to return to in-person worship will depend on the number of active COVID-19 cases in our area, and some of you would prefer not to return until after there is a vaccine. Given your feedback and the data about the current rising spread of the virus in our county, the Reopening Church Task Group has decided that BCMC will not hold in-person worship until sometime after September. The task group will continue to assess community safety and make ongoing decisions about reopening as the Covid 19 situation in our area evolves. In the meantime, BCMC will continue to live stream and record our worship services as energies are also directed toward planning for faith formation, community building, and spiritual and relational support. More details to follow! The Reopening Church Task Group invites your prayers for its ongoing work. If you have questions or concerns along the way, you can be in touch with Task Group chair, Elizabeth Schmidt (egret.schmidt@gmail.com).

Western District Conference announcements
· WDC (Virtual) Annual Assembly is coming up on August 1-2!  See Assembly information at:  https://mennowdc.org/2020-wdc-annual-assembly/. The delegate session will be held August 1 at 9 am. Delegates, please register by July 17 to receive a Zoom link for the delegate session (link will be sent prior to August Anyone (no registration required) can participate in the August 1 afternoon webinars – links to those will be posted on WDC’s website prior to August 1.
· WDC Assembly Worship on August 2: God will be praised through wonderful music with Texas flair, a story of God’s presence by a first-generation immigrant (Sue Park-Hur), a sermon by Danny Carroll R (biblical scholar who specializes in stories of God’s people on the move) and a blessing of WDC ministers. The prerecorded worship (in separate English and Spanish versions) will go live on the WDC Facebook page via Facebook Live on Sunday, August 2 at 10 am CT. The link for this special time of worship will also be available before then by emailing kathynd@mennowdc.org. After Sunday morning, the worship video will be available for viewing on the WDC YouTube channel.
· WDC Assembly Virtual Kidz Kamp!  There will be craft ideas, snack suggestions, music, stories and more available for elementary-aged kids via a pre-recorded video as part of our virtual WDC Annual Assembly August 1-2. We also ask our kids and youth to take a picture of any artistic responses (poem, drawing, song) to our Assembly scriptures (Jeremiah 29:4 and following; 1 Peter 2: 11-12) for use during the delegate session. Please email them to kathynd@mennowdc.org.
· WDC Assembly Video Snapshots – To learn more about WDC congregations, Commissions, Committees and Task Forces, watch their video snapshots at:  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6aO7e884ZT5d9gHzyrfAucccOFYYd_M5, More are added as they become available.
· What seeds are growing in WDC? Each issue of the WDC Garden (quarterly newsletter) in 2020 will feature some “seeds” – brief highlights from congregations about new initiatives, creative ideas, missional practices and connections within WDC. If you have some “seeds” to suggest for consideration in the Garden, please send a note to WDC at wdc@mennowdc.org!
· Policies and Practice: If your congregation is updating your child, youth, and adult safety (“Safe Sanctuaries”) policy and/or wants an updated safety training or Circle of Grace orientation, contact WDC Associate Conference Minister Kathy Neufeld Dunn (kathynd@mennowdc.org or 316-283-6300). She keeps current on sexual abuse prevention and response and is happy to help congregations do so too.

Camp Mennoscah announcements
· You are welcome to visit! Camp Mennoscah is open to families, individuals, and groups for days and overnights. The number of groups on campgrounds is limited and each family/group will have their own bathroom. Canoes are available for use; paddles and lifejackets are checked out and disinfected after use. Contact us at office@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290. Spend some time at the river, on the trails, or simply enjoying this sacred space!
· Camp in a Box from Camp Mennoscah–The vast majority of Camp in the Boxes and tee shirts have been distributed. If you have not received yours (and we have not been in touch), please contact Camp Mennoscah at office@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290. We’ll get it figured out!
· Camp Mennoscah’s Family Weekend has been cancelled due to the low number of attendees. The annual Camp Sing scheduled for August 8 has also been cancelled. Staff will continue to brainstorm options for events that can be done safely!

Mennonite church announcements
· Melanie Neufeld and her husband are pastors of Community Ministry at Seattle Mennonite Church, seeking justice, change and protection for unsheltered people. Get a first-hand look at their ministry in Melanie’s blog, “The prick of compassion.” http://mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/compassion/
· Service Adventure only has five spots remaining for the 2020-2021 term beginning this fall. If you are interested in taking a gap year to serve, live in community, and grow spiritually, contact SusanN@MennoniteMission.net or apply online at MennoniteMission.net/ServiceAdventure.
· Imagine planting a peace church amid a pandemic and nationwide protests – that was the backdrop for Mennonite Church USA’s newest church plant in New York. Read more about the Brooklyn Peace Center: http://mennoniteusa.org/news/nyc-peace-witness/ Catch up on all the news, blogs and events from Mennonite Church by subscribing to PeaceMail, a weekly e-newsletter. Check out the latest issue and subscribe here: http://ow.ly/K5Z150Afsnm

Announcements for July 10-17, 2020

We offer sympathy to Kathy Unruh and Carol (Unruh) and Jerry Buller on the death of Kathy’s husband, Carol’s brother, Burton Buller, July 6, 2020, Wichita.

We offer sympathy to Miner and Valetta Seymour and Katherine Seymour on the death of Miner’s sister, Nancy Billington, July 6. Nancy lived in Louisville, Kentucky, but she died at the family cottage in Ludington, Michigan, where she was able to see Lake Michigan out of her hospital bed.

BCMC offering for July 5, 2020 General Fund $12,408.71; Sr Hi Youth $250; Living Stones $700; Transfer-Funeral $375.

Policy update: Many things were interrupted by Covid 19, including our congregational process related to sexual misconduct. After taking a bit of a break and receiving feedback from Faith Trust Institute on our work, our process continues. A Church Board-appointed Abuse Prevention and Response Committee is in process of being formed to further develop, manage and implement policies for the church in the area of abuse prevention and response; to provide ongoing education for the congregation in this matter; and periodically to review and update each of these policies. This committee hopes to bring a comprehensive Abuse Prevention and Response draft proposal to the congregation for discussion and approval early next year (timing will depend on our ability to process together as a congregation through the Covid pandemic). If you have questions, you can be in touch with Pastor Renee Reimer, Pastor Dawn Yoder Harms, or Church Board Chair/Congregational Moderator Patty Shelly.

Introducing the Porch Project! So that we can continue to have a visual image of our community during this time of physical distancing, church photographers are creating a collage of photos of BCMC folks (the Porch Project) that can be shared virtually with our congregation. If you have a recent photo of yourself or your family that you’d be willing to contribute to the project, please send it to Pastor Renee Reimer, renee@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org

Pastor Dawn’s Upcoming Sabbatical
Earlier this year, the Staff Congregation Relations Committee (SCRC) and the Church Board approved a sabbatical for Pastor Dawn, which was originally scheduled to take place from May 5 through August 17, 2020. As with a myriad of other scheduled events for our congregation, COVID-19 caused a postponement of Dawn’s scheduled time away. Her sabbatical will now take place from July 27 through October 26, 2020. Plans are well in place for covering congregational needs while Dawn is away.
BCMC is blessed with a strong team of pastors and staff. Pastor Renee, Pastor Nathan and Monica will serve as a leadership team during Dawn’s sabbatical. In addition, Barbara Thiesen has agreed to assist with worship planning and many others have agreed to be on call to assist with various congregational needs as they arise. Thanks to each of you for your willingness to serve in this way.
Part of the purpose of Pastor Dawn’s sabbatical is rest and renewal. To ensure that this purpose can be accomplished, it is important that the congregation give Dawn adequate space while she is away. While she remains the lead pastor of our congregation, she will not be able to take calls, make visits, or respond to congregational needs during this time. If you have questions, concerns, spiritual needs, or other issues that arise during this time, please reach out to one of the following:
* Pastor Renee (renee@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org or 605-212-0081) or Barbara Thiesen (thiesenjba@gmail.com) for worship-related needs;
* Pastor Nathan (nathan@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org or 316-212-4593) for pastoral care needs;
* Pastor Renee (renee@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org or 605-212-0081) for faith formation needs;
* Monica Lichti (office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org or 316-283-3667) for administrative or facilities needs;
* Mike Claassen (treasurer@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org or 316-283-3667) for financial questions;
* Patty Shelly (pshelly@bethelks.edu or 316-283-3667) for Church Board concerns
* Heather Zerger (hesauzerger@yahoo.com or 316-283-1422) for staff congregational relations issues
* If you are unsure who to call, please reach out to Monica (office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org or 316-283-3667) and she can help direct you to the right person.
We look forward to blessing Dawn as she leaves for her sabbatical during worship on July 26, 2020 and ask that you hold Dawn and Doug in prayer as they anticipate Dawn’s time of renewal and rest. Please keep each member of BCMC’s capable staff in your prayers as they prepare to provide coverage to our congregation during Dawn’s leave and during these challenging times. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to talk with SCRC members Heather Zerger, David Linscheid, Vern Preheim, or Mary Goering.

As we are all navigating our way towards regrouping and finding ways to gather and fellowship together again, we want to take this opportunity to share our annual Bluestem Experience magazine with your congregation. We would be grateful if, instead of print copies, you would be willing to share this electronic link in your e-church bulletin and/or newsletter. This year marks another issue of amazing resident and campus stories. https://www.flipsnack.com/B9767CF569B/2020-bluestem-communities-annual-report.html

Additionally, Bluestem Communities will be hosting the 7th annual Dementia Forum as a free web-event this year. On July 15, Teepa Snow, an internationally recognized dementia education specialist, will be speaking and answering questions online. If interested go to the link below to register.

https://bluestemcommunities.org/amenities/activities/annual-community-events/dementia-forum

Mennonite Mission Network is seeking a full time Network Systems Administrator located in the Newton, KS office. This position will ensure the stable operation of the organizations Local Area Network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), Internet systems and software applications. The ability to analyze and resolve end user hardware and software computer problems in a timely and accurate fashion is essential. Ability to provide excellent customer service is a must. Committed to denominational and agency goals of anti-racist action. Degree in computer science / information technology or 3-5 years’ experience is preferred. View the complete position description at www.MennoniteMission.net. Submit cover letter and resumé to StaffRecruitment@MennoniteMission.net for consideration.

Western District Conference Announcements:
* Creative WDC Assembly Worship: Friends from Texas who committed to sharing their gifts of music, dance, prayer, the Lord’s Supper, and more in-person, will still lead worship via YouTube Live. Because this worship will be pre-recorded, your congregation may decide to join for an August 2, 10 am CT “Assembly Worship Watch Party” in small groups or in your own homes. Or you may share this video with your congregation during your normal worship time. If you join the watch party, we look forward to seeing each other’s “chat” comments of “Amen!”, “Hallelujah”, and “Praise the Lord!” as we worship together virtually. We also look forward to your Assembly donation this year. Once Assembly expenses are paid, all other donations go into our WDC Hope Fund to assist congregations in need. More information at: https://mennowdc.org/2020-wdc-annual-assembly/
* Looking forward to the Women and Girls Retreat at Camp Mennoscah? The Annual Spring Supper? Help make these events possible by joining the Western District Women in Mission Executive Council! There are nine open positions including: vice president, secretary, treasurer, one position on the Women and Girls Retreat Committee, two positions on the Communications Team, and three positions on the Nominating Committee. A wide variety of openings means we have a place for you and your unique talents and interests. You can help ensure the future of WDWM programming by volunteering for one of these positions. If you are interested in supporting the mission of WDWM by filling one of these roles, email westerndistrictwomen@gmail.com.

Camp Mennoscah announcements
* Camp Mennoscah will be reordering tee shirts! Get your order in no later than July 9 by calling 620-297-3290 or emailing office@campmennoscah.org. Only a high demand will allow us to reorder tee shirts a third/additional time. Now is your chance!
* Camp Mennoscah is open to a limited number of individuals, families, and groups for both days and overnights. Reservations must be made in advance. Contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290 for further information. We are excited to make this sacred space available to you!

Mennonite church announcements
* Hundreds of people tuned in to last week’s Mennonite Church USA’s live online panel discussion entitled “Race, Church and Change”. Hosted by MC USA leadership, this important conversation addressed the impact of racism on the church and approaches for dismantling it. If you missed the live event, be sure to watch the video here: http://mennoniteusa.org/leadership-development/webinars/
* Join Mennonite Church USA leadership for another live event addressing racism in the church. We are pleased to welcome back our panelists for this follow-up discussion, addressing key questions such as:
What role does racial healing and reconciliation play in being anti-racist?
How do we begin a conversation about white supremacy?
What would it look like for MC USA congregations to practice racial reparations?
Join us Thursday, July 23 at 5:30 pm CT. Register at: https://mcusa.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_JKz_I1rpS76YxM8QwSvRzg* Consider being an MVS participant for the 2020-2021 MVS year! The application deadline has been extended until the end of July. Visit MennoniteMission.net/MVS to learn more and apply!
* Menno Snapshots Tax Day (July 15) is one of Sylvia Shirk’s favorite annual events because it gives her the opportunity to stand on her Anabaptist faith as a war tax resister. Read more in her blog, “If you pray for peace, why pay for war?” http://mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/why-pay-for-war/
* #BringThePeace The African American Mennonite Association, a constituency group of Mennonite Church USA, has called upon fellow Mennonite congregations to address racism. http://mennoniteusa.org/news/aama/

Grounded in the words we read in Philippians 2: 3-4, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others,” MCC Central States offices and material resources center is closed to the public indefinitely. The realities of COVID-19 continue to change but the dedication of MCC staff to work for relief, development and peace in the name of Christ continues on. Essential workers will continue to work at MCC, but the rest of the staff will work from home. Your material resource donations (school, hygiene or relief kits and comforters, details at mcc.org/kits) are needed at this time and can be shipped directly to MCC when ordering online or dropped off in the 24-hour donation room towards the east end of the building (121 E. 30^th North Newton, KS 67117). In spite of the challenges from COVID-19, the global work of MCC continues. Your financial donations are needed to keep this work going. Give now at mcc.org/donate or by sending checks to MCC PO Box 500 Akron, PA 17501. To contact staff with questions please email us at centralstates@mcc.org or call the office 316.283.2720.

Prayer request for Mennonite Mission Network: MMN requests prayer for Jane and Jerrell Ross Richer and their family as they begin the North American segment of their two-way mission. Pray for them as they continue their Ecuador ministry from a distance and as they engage in teaching ministries from Goshen, Indiana.

Prayer request for Western District Conference: Give thanks for generous donors and congregations who contribute faithfully to WDC, and pray for ongoing financial support for WDC in its mission to empower congregations and leaders during this uncertain time.

Announcements for July 3-10, 2020

Good news BCMC! The BCMC library is now open! Please continue to check out books by signing your name and the title of the book on the clipboard on the desk. Don’t forget to write in your due date on the inside cover of your book-3 weeks from the day you checked it out. The website is also up to date and ready for you to check out what is available-not only from home, but also in the library. An updated What’s New listing will also be available soon. When returning books, please place them in the box on the desk. It is recommended that we quarantine our books for three days before re-shelving them. Happy Reading Everyone!

Continue to be aware that there are Scams out there. As we emailed last week: “If you receive a text allegedly from Pastor Dawn requesting you to run an errand, do a favor for her, etc., it is a SCAM. Please do not respond.” Note: these messages are not coming from Dawn’s phone number.” Also, if you receive a strange email from a pastor saying that you should purchase a Google Play card, or wire money, or whatever, please call the BCMC office. A pastor will never ask you to do such a thing. There is also a scam that calls your cell phone and claims to be Evergy. They say that you have not paid your electric bill and your electricity will be disconnected due to non-payment. This call does not come from Evergy. If you get a call like this, report it to the BCMC office.

As the Reopening Church Task Group works toward beginning in-person worship at BCMC once again, we’d like to share some important information and get your feedback.

Here’s what you need to know: Given the recent rise in COVID 19 cases in Kansas and in Harvey County, we will not begin in-person worship until sometime after the end of July. When we regather for worship, the experience will look and feel much different from what we experienced in pre-COVID days. Here’s what we will need to do to stay safe:
Participation will be limited to 50-60 people per Sunday to ensure physical distancing.
Services will be live-streamed, so those not able to participate on a given Sunday can continue to participate at home. A recorded version of the service will be available following the live-stream on Sunday morning.
Because singing is a “super-spreading” activity, there will be no congregational singing (although there will be music)
Windows will be open to ensure adequate ventilation (no air conditioning)
Masks will be required
All participants will be asked to self-screen before coming to worship (with a provided set of questions)
There will be no indoor fellowship time. You are welcome to greet each other–at a distance–on the front lawn following the service.
Here’s what we’d like to know from you to help us with our planning:
Given these current parameters and assessment of your own personal risk, when would you be most interested in returning to in-person worship?
in August
in September
it depends on the number of COVID 19 cases in our area
not until there is a COVID-19 vaccine

To submit your answer call Monica a call at the office.
Please respond by Tuesday, July 7.
Thank you for your help as we continue to plan!

We would like to thank Jim and Melanie Mueller, and the BCMC family for everyone’s prayers, cards, letters, encouragement, and love following the death of our son Tamen in April. Tamen’s ashes were placed in the Peace Garden on Monday, June 29th. A special thank you to Pastor Dawn Yoder Harms for her love and support and for conducting a personal and heart-felt service. Thank you to Monica Lichti for all the assistance offered to us and for having Tamen’s paver in place for the service. Blessings in Christ, -Vince and Priscilla Miller, Pocatello, Idaho

Western District Conference announcements
· The WDC Virtual Assembly Delegate Session is for you! If you’ve never had a chance to have your congregation’s views heard at the WDC Annual Assembly because of cost, distance, or other limitations, please register as a delegate this year. Language will not be a barrier. We will have separate “channels” for Spanish speakers and English speakers. Hear our Conference Minister’s insights about how the Spirit is at work in Western District Conference, as well as add your perspective to discussions of who will shape WDC ministries and how we will spend our money together. We look forward to seeing you August 1, 9-11 am Central Time. We encourage you or your congregation to make a generous donation, as you are able, for Assembly expenses. After costs are covered, donations will go toward our WDC Hope Fund for congregations in financial need. More information and online registration at: https://mennowdc.org/2020-wdc-annual-assembly
· Kids’ Art Responses to Assembly Scriptures: Remember, we invite kids from any WDC congregation to draw a picture or write a poem in response to our Assembly scriptures Jeremiah 29. 4 and following and 1 Peter 2.11-12. Why would God ask people who’d been forced to move to a strange land to become friends and even family with their enemies? Send your art to: kathynd@mennowdc.org.

Camp Mennoscah announcements
· The Camp in a Boxes and Tees from Camp Mennoscah are being delivered to pick up locations. If you have not told us how to get your box or tee to you, please contact us at 620-297-3290 or office@campmennoscah.org. Due to the large number of boxes and tees ordered, we have not yet shipped boxes and tees. We’re working as quickly as we can to get them to you!
· Camp Mennoscah will be reordering tee shirts! Get your order in no later than July 9 by calling 620-297-3290 or emailing office@campmennoscah.org. Only a high demand will allow us to reorder tee shirts a third/additional time. Now is your chance!
· Camp Mennoscah is open to a limited number of individuals, families, and groups for both days and overnights. Reservations must be made in advance. Contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290 for further information. We are excited to make this sacred space available to you!
· Family Weekend at Camp Mennoscah! Camp Mennoscah is inviting you to join in a modified Family Weekend on July 18-19. Many of the same activities like crafts and s’mores will be offered but adjusted to fit life during a pandemic. The pool is closed for the summer, but the river is still as splashable as ever. Each family group will be assigned their own bathroom. Register online at campmennoscah.org or call Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290.

Time of prayer for racial justice via Zoom – July 1, 7 pm – Join Bethel College Campus Ministries for a structured time of Scripture, lament, prayer and hope. Register at: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJUqduGhqzIuGtc5NZOR9oBVO0yPgBvb2DeO

Mennonite Church USA announcements
· Check out the Peace and Justice Support Network, a Mission Network partner that works to provide the tools and encouragement that congregations need to embrace their calling to seek peace. Visit PJSN.org to learn more.
· #BringThePeace Amid widespread civil unrest, Mennonite Church USA has issued a statement on racial injustice. Read it here: http://mennoniteusa.org/news/mc_usa-statement-on-racial-injustice/
· #BringThePeace Mennonite Church USA has launched a Justice Fund to provide a way for individuals and congregations to support fellow congregations that are actively involved in dismantling racism, addressing police brutality, reimagining policing in our society or combating poverty. To learn more: http://mennoniteusa.org/news/mennonite-church-usa-launches-new-justice-fund/
• #BringThePeace The leadership team of Mennonite Church USA recently led an interactive, online panel discussion, entitled Race, Church and Change, about the impact of racism on the church and meaningful approaches for dismantling it. View it here: http://mennoniteusa.org/leadership-development/webinars/

Safehope is partnering with Newton Sat Night Cruising for a food drive to benefit Safehope! Come out for a socially distanced cruise of Main Street Saturday, July 11, 7 to 8:30 pm starting at the Dollar General Parking lot, 320 N. Main. Bring non-perishable food, monetary donations and come celebrate our amazing community!!

Everence will host its popular workshop, Make Medicare an easy step, as a webinar on Tuesday, July 14 at 6:30 p.m. Attendees will learn about the various Medicare plans and what they cover; plans that supplement Medicare; and enrollment details and deadlines. This webinar is free. Please register by contacting Darlene Buller at 877-467-7294, 316-333-1808 or darlene.buller@everence.com.

BCMC Offering for June 28: General Fund $3,212; Sr Hi Youth $575; Rejoice $62; Caring Fund $100; Living Stones $40; Bethel College Scholarship Fund $500; Bequests $7,000; Elevator Repair $500.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for a spirit of unity and encouragement among WDC congregations in Texas, as they gather for a joint worship service online next Saturday, July 11.

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: LCC University Summer Language Institute in Lithuania normally begins this month. Pray for Robin Gingerich, serving with Mennonite Mission Network, and other administrators as they adapt the program to new realities created by COVID-19.