Author Archives: Monica Lichti

Announcements for September 18-25, 2020

Hello! This week’s “Hello” video comes from Julianna Schrag, BCMC’s 2020-2021 Faith Formation Intern. Watch this video to learn more about who Julianna is and what her responsibilities will be at BCMC. The link for the video is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BeX7x9kxl24&feature=youtu.be

Peace Sunday
Sunday, September 20, we will be celebrating Peace Sunday with Dr. Christine Miller Hesed as a guest speaker. Miller Hesed is an environmental anthropologist and conservation biologist whose work focuses on engaging underrepresented communities in climate change adaptation planning. She was the project director of Engaging Faith Communities for Coastal Resilience, an applied research project that brought together rural church communities with county and state government employees to address climate change on the Chesapeake Bay. Her work involves cultural consensus analysis and ethnographic methods to understand differences and similarities in cultural knowledge within and across stakeholder groups. Her doctoral research focused on rural African American communities on the Chesapeake Bay in order to understand environmental justice, vulnerability, adaptation, and resilience to sea-level rise. Miller Hesed is a former EPA STAR Fellow. She currently lives in Hesston, Kansas with her husband and young children.

Pastor Renee Reimer will be on vacation September 21-25.

Keith Sprunger writes the following: “We received word that Janet Sprunger, Harrisonburg, VA, died Sunday, September 13. She was the wife of Hugh David Sprunger (died in 1998), Keith’s brother. Hugh and Janet were General Conference missionaries in Taiwan and Hong Kong for many years. They lived in Newton for several years in the 1980s and attended our church and were active members of the Sojourners Sunday School class.” Please pray for Keith and Aldine Sprunger as they mourn the loss of their sister-in-law, Janet Sprunger.

Jerry Friesen died September 11 at Kidron Bethel Village with his spouse Donna by his side. Jerry had been put on hospice earlier in the week. Please pray for Donna and the Friesen family as they mourn his loss.

A message from the family of Larry Friesen
We deeply appreciate the many expressions of kindness and support during the illness and death of our dear husband, father, and brother, Larry Friesen. Donna June, Katy June Friesen & Christian Samaniego, Duane & Liz Friesen

A message from Pete Janzen, Wichita about his mother Dotty’s birthday
On October 4, 2020 my mom, Dotty Janzen, will reach the age of 90. Kidron Bethel is still on 100% quarantine, so we had to cancel our proposed big bash in her honor. Some of mom’s friends are putting the word out to have a card shower for her. You are invited to participate. If you want to include a snapshot, that is also encouraged because Mom has an easier time remembering people when she has a picture for reference. Send cards to her at this address: Dotty Janzen, Kidron Bethel Health Care, Room 23, 3001 Ivy Drive, North Newton, Kansas 67117

The Library Committee reminds you that our wonderful library is open whenever the church is. Please feel free to come and explore our collection-either at home through TinyCat or on the computer here at church. As an added incentive, we have begun choosing genres/themes that will change every other month or so. Currently, we have pulled the books that share the theme “Racial Justice”. This healthy collection is on the shelves in back of the library check out desk. Also, those of you that have had books checked out since February or before, please return them as soon as possible. If you still don’t feel comfortable bringing them back yourselves, one of us will be glad to pick it up. You can access the church library catalog by going to the BCMC website, click on Resources, then click on Library. Happy Reading! Kathryn Simmons, Margaret Goering, Rose Haury, Barb Koontz, Sondra Koontz, LaVonne Sawatsky

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Diana Cruz and Felipe Preciado of Mennonite Mission Network request prayer for the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in Benin since quarantine ended in June. Pray especially for the protection of the children and staff at La Casa Grande and that the children will not fall behind in their education.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for the WDC Executive Board, Commissions, Gifts Discernment Committee and staff as they meet online next Saturday for Reference Council, a time for orientation and reflection together on common mission and priorities for the coming year.

Western District Conference Announcements:
· The WDC Immigration Task Force introduces its second installment in a series of thought pieces, mindful of immigrants among us without a voice this election season. They seek to make visible what is too often invisible with regard to immigrant lives and immigration issues. Watch for these topics in the coming weeks: “Positions on Immigration Issues of the 2020 Presidential Candidates;” and “Voices of Our Immigrant Brothers and Sisters.”
· 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/.
· The Israel Palestine Relations Task Force of Western District Conference Israel Palestine Task Force/Mennonite Church USA is sponsoring a webinar on September 21, 7 to 8 pm (CT). UN’s International Day of Peace entitled Racial Justice from US to Palestine features Jonathan Kuttab, Alex Awad and Sarah Thompson Nahar. Instructions for registration and more information about this free webinar attached.
· Include a gift to Western District Conference in your will or estate plan, as a great way to support WDC’s work of sustaining pastors, resourcing congregations and nurturing church planting into the future! To learn more about basic tools of creating an estate plan, see a recording of the recent Everence webinar What to do with your stuff: basic estate planning (https://www.everence.com/everence-articles/core-markets/national-advisors-and-representatives/webinars/20200129-ww-basic-estate-planning). This is part of an 11-week “Webinar Wednesday” series by Everence.

Mennonite Central Committee announcements:
· 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).
· Mennonite Central Committee invites you join Celebration 2020: MCC at 100, a livestreamed event commemorating a century of MCC’s ministry on Saturday, Oct. 17, starting at 6:50 pm. (EDT). The event will feature photos, videos and storytelling that highlight MCC’s work over the years. Former MCC leader and pastor Leonard Dow of Philadelphia will inspire participants to walk boldly into the next century of MCC’s ministry while talented musicians will lead in prayer and thanksgiving. You can find more information about MCC’s centennial and log in for the livestreamed event at mcc.org/celebration-2020.
· “FORGOTTEN.” This is the word that Ana Alicia Hinojosa, an MCC immigration education coordinator, said has been on her mind since South Texas/Rio Grande Valley was hit with Hurricane Hanna in late July. Read her powerful call to action in her blog, “Do something bold for immigration justice.” https://www.mennoniteusa.org/do-something-bold
· Register NOW for the MCC Flatlander Bicycle Ride! Due to COVID-19, the ride is a “virtual” event this year and open to EVERYONE. Riders may register any time until September 29. Register online at Bikereg.com. Join us in raising money for MCC to fund the construction of new wells and repair existing water and sanitary systems at schools in Nicaragua. With these improvements, students will have safe water to drink and wash their hands. In this global pandemic, access to clean water is more essential than ever. Donations from non-riders are welcome! Checks to MCC Flatlander Bike Ride may be sent to MCC Central States, PO Box 235, North Newton, KS 67117.

The Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale is sponsoring an online auction at this time. Here is the Acutria Auction site. https://charityauction.bid/KMRS
Bidding began last week on September 1 with bidding to close at 5 pm, September 26. This auction will feature donations that would have been sold at the silent or general auction at the KMRS event last April. Currently there are over 20 donations and items will continue to be added through the time period of the auction so check out the auction site often. There will not be any quilts sold at this auction but the quilt committee is putting together a quilt online auction for October. More details will follow as those details are worked out. This is an opportunity to contribute to the continuing needs of the Mennonite Central Committee. The auction site is easy to use and is geared for non-profit charitable organizations. Items purchased may be picked up at a distribution points in North Newton, Topeka and Hutchinson. Shipping or delivery will be considered upon request. Again, here is the Acutria Auction website https://charityauction.bid/KMRS Please check out the items on the auction site and bid. If you have something you would like to donate or have questions, please contact me at jimandbeatyrobb@gmail.com or 620-747-0186. You have been very generous in your donations and contributions to KMRS and MCC. For this we are thankful. But in this centennial year we should consider stretching ourselves as the original supporters of MCC did. The best way to celebrate is to “give in the name of Christ.” Jim Robb, KMRS Chair

Camp Mennoscah announcements
· 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 annual meeting is September 27. An online link will be shared soon!

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.

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 or by calling 316-217-1932. Hope to see you there!

Bethel College Announcements:
· Last week to see work by three seniors from the Class of 2020, Georgia Anderson, Blayne Stump and Anna Wiens, in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. The exhibit closes Friday, Sept. 25. 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.
· Join Kansas Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution ONLINE for KIPCOR’s 2020 Nonviolence Week Presentation on Friday, September 25, at 11:00 am.   KIPCOR will be hosting a ZOOM TED-talk style presentation by the Rev. Dr. Stephany Rose Spaulding. In these turbulent times, this is a unique opportunity to support one another, to learn from one another, and to add your voice to the ongoing dialogue about race in society.
KIPCOR will host a Q & A session after her presentation. In order to receive the email with the Zoom link, you MUST preregister on the KIPCOR website no later than Noon on Thursday, September 24.  Simply go to KIPCOR’s website at  http://kipcor.org/ and click on the event, then click on the green “Register Here” button.
· Fall Festival at Bethel College is not canceled but will look different this year. While there won’t be a “Fall Festival fair” on campus Oct. 3, there will be a homecoming football game, an art exhibit by David Long, and a virtual play written by Karen Robu, among other events. The Bethel College Women’s Association is taking orders for baked goods at www.bcwamarketonline.com/shop/preorderforfallfest/9 (ordering deadline: Sept. 30). See www.bethelks.edu/alumni/events/fall-festival for a detailed schedule.
· Bethel College Women’s Association is inviting area churches and former BCWA members to help with Fall Fest Baking. Check out items needed and sign up here:  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70a0e4ca8a72fa3f58-fall/. Thank you for your continued support of Bethel College!
· 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.

SAVE THE DATE—IBA BENEFIT DINNER: The annual Instituto Bíblico Anabautista (IBA) benefit fundraiser will beFri., Oct. 16 at First Mennonite Church in Newton. A burrito order to go will take place instead of the usual dinner. (You can order Pork, Chicken or Meatless burritos. Sold by ½ dozen-6 burrito and a dozen-12 burritos) Pick up between 4:30-6:30 pm, instructions will be sent later. Sale by donation. If you are not able to order you are invited to give a donation. Your generous gift will help ensure the future of this vital ministry. IBA is a program of Mennonite Education Agency’s Hispanic Ministries for Leadership Development and Pastoral Education. For any inquiries or to ORDER contact Violeta Ajquejay Suastegui at: VioletaA@MennoniteEducation.org or call 316-281-4342. DEADLINE to order: Thursday Oct. 9.

Mennonite Church USA Announcements:
· Mennonite Church USA staff invites you to join them in supporting the Mennonite World Conference Global Sharing Fund to provide COVID-19 relief to congregations with less access to aid and resources, especially in parts of Africa, Latin America and Asia. For more information: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/word-conference-relief-fund
· Mennonite Church USA is offering Justice Fund grants to congregations that are actively addressing racial justice, poverty, police brutality/reimagining policing and immigration or are seeking start-up money to engage in these areas. For more information on how to apply or donate: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/news/applications-for-justice-fund/
· In his blog, “Building stamina for anti-racism,” Goshen student Cade Fisher talks about the need for young people to prepare for the long, hard work of anti-racism. Read it here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/building-stamina-for-anti-racism/

Announcements for September 11-18, 2020

Peace Sunday
Next Sunday we will be celebrating Peace Sunday with Dr. Christine Miller Hesed as a guest speaker. Miller Hesed is an environmental anthropologist and conservation biologist whose work focuses on engaging underrepresented communities in climate change adaptation planning. She was the project director of Engaging Faith Communities for Coastal Resilience, an applied research project that brought together rural church communities with county and state government employees to address climate change on the Chesapeake Bay. Her work involves cultural consensus analysis and ethnographic methods to understand differences and similarities in cultural knowledge within and across stakeholder groups. Her doctoral research focused on rural African American communities on the Chesapeake Bay in order to understand environmental justice, vulnerability, adaptation, and resilience to sea-level rise. Miller Hesed is a former EPA STAR Fellow. She currently lives in Hesston, Kansas with her husband and young children.

Zoom practice sessions
Renee will be holding 2 Zoom practice/tutorial sessions before the Zoom September 20th worship service. Please note, Renee does not know everything but can help you get started on a few things. If you have never used Zoom before you will need to download the application onto your computer. You can do this here: https://zoom.us/download You will also need a microphone and camera on your computer/tablet/smartphone to fully participate and interact with others during the discussion session following the service. If you’d like to practice getting on Zoom before this worship service, please let Renee know at renee@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org. The two drop in Zoom practice sessions will be Monday, September 14th from 4-5pm and Thursday, September 17th from 1-2pm. This service will also be recorded and uploaded to YouTube (like we normally do on Sunday mornings).

Hello!
This week’s “Hello” video comes from Monica Lichti. Click here to join Monica, Lucy, and Faith on a tour of the Fellowship Hall remodel to see what’s being done while we’ve been away. You can see the video at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4XtI4NBH3Og&feature=youtu.be

Donna and Jerry Friesen who live at Kidron Bethel Village ask for your prayers as Jerry is in hospice care. We pray for strength for Donna and others as they provide physical and emotional support, and for patience, comfort, and love as Donna and Jerry enter into this last stage of life together.

BCMC is responsible for meals and volunteers at New Hope Shelter this week from Sept. 9 through Sept. 15. Please remember our volunteers as they serve the homeless in our community.

This is a gentle reminder from the Library Committee that our wonderful library is open whenever the church is. Please feel free to come and explore our collection-either at home through TinyCat or on the computer here at church. As an added incentive, we have begun choosing genres/themes that will change every other month or so. Currently, we have pulled the books that share the theme “Racial Justice”. This healthy collection is on the shelves in back of the library check out desk. Also, those of you that have had books checked out since February or before, please return them as soon as possible. If you still don’t feel comfortable bringing them back yourselves, one of us will be glad to pick it up. You can access the church library catalog by going to the BCMC website, click on Resources, then click on Library. Happy Reading! Kathryn Simmons, Margaret Goering, Rose Haury, Barb Koontz, Sondra Koontz, LaVonne Sawatsky

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Join Mennonite Mission Network in praising God that no students, staff, or faculty of the Near East School of Theology were injured when last month’s explosion rocked Beirut, Lebanon. Pray for wisdom for George Sabra, the school’s president, and for the necessary resources to repair the extensive damage done to the eight-floor building. Pray also for all who have lost loved ones and homes.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for the Holy Spirit’s wisdom, guidance and joy for Lois Barrett, as she begins serving as the new moderator for WDC.

Join KIPCOR ONLINE for their 2020-2021 Peace Lecture Series kickoff
Thank you so much for your patience since the beginning of the year when we announced Sarah Smarsh as our 2020 Peace Lecturer. After much discussion with her team, we have decided that the best way to safely host the event is to do it virtually. Therefore, we will be live-streaming the event on Thursday evening, November 5, 2020. The author, speaker, and journalist will present, “Bridging the Cultural Divide in Difficult Times.” Sarah focuses on socioeconomic class and rural America. Her book Heartland: A Memoir of Working Hard and Being Broke in the Richest Country on Earth, an instant New York Times bestseller and a finalist for the National Book Award, examines economic inequality through her upbringing among the working poor on a Kansas farm.
Sarah has reported on socioeconomic class for The Guardian, the New York Times, The New Yorker, Harper’s, and many other publications. Heartland was named a “best of 2018” by NPR, Fresh Air, the Boston Globe, Amazon, Buzzfeed, Barnes and Noble, and Publishers Weekly. In addition to being short-listed for the National Book Award, Heartland was a finalist for the Kirkus Prize, the Lukas Prize, the Indie Choice Award, and an Audie Award for Smarsh’s reading of her audiobook. Actor-producer Sarah Jessica Parker selected the title for the American Library Association’s Book Club Central. Sarah is a regular political commentator in national media and has spoken internationally on poverty, rural issues, and cultural divides at venues ranging from small-town libraries to Sydney Opera House. Sarah was recently a Fellow at Harvard’s Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics and Public Policy. In 2019, Sarah released a podcast entitled The Homecomers, which focuses on how a national blind spot toward rural and working-class America is driving misleading headlines, broken politics, and dangerous fissures in our social fabric. The podcast showcases stories of people who, as residents or advocates, remain committed to their complex, embattled homes. This event is a fundraiser. Registration details will be provided at a later date. For the most up to date information, please see our website at www.KIPCOR.org.

Sunday, Sept. 13– KIPCOR, the Kansas Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution at Bethel College, is hosting a Zoom call, starting at 2 pm, featuring Selma: The Bridge to the Ballot, a 40-minute documentary about a group of Alabama students and teachers who nonviolently resisted a century of Jim Crow in a segregationist state to win voting rights for Blacks, followed by a talk-back session with Larry Burks Sr., president of the Wichita branch of the NAACP. If you signed up, don’t forget to tune in!

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.

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 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.

Mennonite Central Committee announcements:
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).
Mennonite Central Committee invites you join Celebration 2020: MCC at 100, a livestreamed event commemorating a century of MCC’s ministry on Saturday, Oct. 17, starting at 6:50 pm. (EDT). The event will feature photos, videos and storytelling that highlight MCC’s work over the years. Former MCC leader and pastor Leonard Dow of Philadelphia will inspire participants to walk boldly into the next century of MCC’s ministry while talented musicians will lead in prayer and thanksgiving. You can find more information about MCC’s centennial and log in for the livestreamed event at mcc.org/celebration-2020.
Register NOW for the MCC Flatlander Bicycle Ride! Due to COVID-19, the ride is a “virtual” event this year and open to EVERYONE. Riders may register any time until September 29. Register online at Bikereg.com. Join us in raising money for MCC to fund the construction of new wells and repair existing water and sanitary systems at schools in Nicaragua. With these improvements, students will have safe water to drink and wash their hands. In this global pandemic, access to clean water is more essential than ever. Donations from non-riders are welcome! Checks to MCC Flatlander Bike Ride may be sent to MCC Central States, PO Box 235, North Newton, KS 67117.

The Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale is sponsoring an online auction at this time. Here is the Acutria Auction site.  https://charityauction.bid/KMRS
Bidding began last week on September 1 with bidding to close at 5 pm, September 26. This auction will feature donations that would have been sold at the silent or general auction at the KMRS event last April. Currently there are over 20 donations and items will continue to be added through the time period of the auction so check out the auction site often. There will not be any quilts sold at this auction but the quilt committee is putting together a quilt online auction for October. More details will follow as those details are worked out. This is an opportunity to contribute to the continuing needs of the Mennonite Central Committee. The auction site is easy to use and is geared for non-profit charitable organizations. Items purchased may be picked up at a distribution points in North Newton, Topeka and Hutchinson. Shipping or delivery will be considered upon request.
Again, here is the Acutria Auction website  https://charityauction.bid/KMRS
Please check out the items on the auction site and bid.  If you have something you would like to donate or have questions, please contact me at jimandbeatyrobb@gmail.com or 620-747-0186.
You have been very generous in your donations and contributions to KMRS and MCC. For this we are thankful. But in this centennial year we should consider stretching ourselves as the original supporters of MCC did. The best way to celebrate is to “give in the name of Christ.” Jim Robb, KMRS Chair

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!

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.

The Israel Palestine Relations Task Force of Western District Conference Israel Palestine Task Force/Mennonite Church USA is sponsoring a webinar on September 21, 7 to 8 pm (CT). UN’s International Day of Peace entitled Racial Justice from US to Palestine features Jonathan Kuttab, Alex Awad and Sarah Thompson Nahar. Click here for instructions for registration and more information about this free webinar. Celebrate%20International%20Day%20of%20Peace.pdf

From the Mennonite Creation Care Network
Jim Musselman, creation care liaison from First Mennonite Church of San Francisco Mennonite Church writes:
September 13, 2020.
Please pause for a moment to grieve the devastation and suffering from the forest fires in California right now. For those of us with some understanding of climate change, it is a double grief. See what Jim has to say below. Lament and beg for God’s mercy, respond with advocacy and action as you can; leave the rest in God’s hands.
The Day the Sun Did Not Come Up
For those of us in Northern California, September 9, 2020, was “The Day The Sun Didn’t Come Up.” As I write this at 2:20 pm, the sun still had not risen here in San Francisco.
Yesterday the NY Times reported that wildfires in California have now burned more acreage than in any prior year in recorded history, plus we still have four months left in our fire season. Amy Goodman, on the Democracy Now news show, reported not only that the acreage burned this year exceeded all prior recorded years, but also that these record breaking wildfires are caused by global warming. Thank you, Amy Goodman, and thank you to all the news agencies that have had the integrity to link these record-breaking fires to climate change instead of regarding global warming as a radical leftist hoax.
My friends and family in Dublin California, 60 miles to the southeast; Aptos California, 70 miles south; and Salinas California 105 miles south, have all reported today that the sun did not come up there either.
I cannot help but take this phenomenon as a warning that we must alter how we live and begin to de-grow our human enterprise across the planet. We seem to have completely lost touch with the natural world and forgotten that we are an integral part of it.

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.

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!

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.

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

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