BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR JANUARY 21, 2024
 

To livestream the worship service:
On Sunday morning, around 9:45, go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen, which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box below that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”.   Anytime after the service concludes, you can watch a recording of the service at your convenience by clicking the same green LIVE STREAM button.  Again, you will probably have to go to the gray box that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”.  That will transfer you to the BCMC YouTube Channel.  You will have to click on the tab “Videos” to see all of the BCMC videos. Click the red button to see the bulletin/order of service. 
OR – click on this link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/Ml17o9pO6RU?feature=share
 

Extreme Fall Danger for Sunday Morning Worship

BCMC will be having in-person worship on this Sunday, January 21.  However we recommend that you exercise extreme caution if you plan to attend in-person.  You will likely need to walk over snow and ice in order to enter the BCMC facility.  The parking lot to the east of the church will be icy and parking spots along the road and curb will still have snow and ice around them. The risk of falling is significant.  For anyone who has even a slight risk of falling, please stay home and watch the service live-streamed. 

From the staff of Bethel College Mennonite Church
 

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
January 21, 2024
Third Sunday after Epiphany

Christ Candle Lighting

Centering Music—Adoration (Florence B. Price) –Will Wiebe-Friesen

Welcome and Prayer—Jon Zerger

*Hymn—Could It Be That God Is Singing—VT 42

Children’s Conversation—Kevin Neufeld

Anthem—Fairest Lord Jesus (Derek Hakes)–Chancel Choir; Riley King, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist

Scripture Reading—Psalm 62:5-12; Mark 1:14-20—Carol & Jerry Buller

Sermon—Image of God, Activity of God—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—O God, Great Womb—VT 176

Child Blessing for Elizabeth Robb—VT 970

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Will You Come and Follow Me—VT 540

Benediction

Postlude—Fugue from Sonata 6 (Mendelssohn)–Will Wiebe-Friesen

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together

Keyboard- Will Wiebe-Friesen
Audio visual—Ken Lamp 

Note on the composer of Adoration: Florence Beatrice Price (1887-1953) was the first African American woman to be recognized as a symphonic composer. A prolific composer who studied primarily as an organist and pianist, the bulk of her works were not published until their serendipitous discovery in the attic of her now-abandoned former home near Chicago in 2009. Her story is one worth looking up! 

This Week at BCMC:  January 21—28, 2024

Sunday, January 21, 2024
9:30 a.m.    Worship    YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/Ml17o9pO6RU?feature=share

The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 am  Faith Formation—Intergenerational class meets in  Fellowship Hall;   High School – Room 24    Adult Classes:  Agape Class meets in the nursery; Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5);  Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21)  Seekers (Rm 28)

Monday, January 22, 2024
10 a.m.  Library Committee meeting in Room 14
Wednesday, January 24, 2024
7:30 p.m.  Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the sanctuary
Thursday, January 25, 2024
6:30 p.m.   Chancel Bells Rehearsal in Room B-7
7 p.m.         Deacon Commission meeting in Room 14
Sunday, January 28, 2024
9:30 a.m     Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz; music by Chancel Bells
10:45 a.m.  Faith Formation
11:45 a.m.  Soup Luncheon in fellowship hall—Fundraiser served by Senior High Youth Group
12:45 a.m.  Congregational meeting in the sanctuary

Preparing for Worship
As we gather for worship each Sunday in the sanctuary, the Worship Commission invites and encourages us to become quiet as we light the Christ Candle.  Prelude music has now been changed to Centering Music.  The Worship Commission invites your feedback as we experiment with a new order of worship.

February 25 has been designated as “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” Sunday! “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” is a way for BCMC folks to get acquainted with other BCMC folks that they might not know very well. The Hospitality Commission will match people who sign up as hosts with people who sign up as guests.  Today there are sign up sheets at the back of the church, for being either a host or a guest for a dinner.

The memorial service for Nancy Hilty has been re-scheduled to Saturday March 9, 11 a.m. followed by a lunch in fellowship hall.

 Interested in becoming a member of Bethel College Mennonite Church?
If you are interested in becoming a member, or transferring membership, or learning more about  membership at BCMC, please contact Elizabeth Schmidt, Pastor of Congregational Care.  She will be happy to visit with you!

Roger’s Whereabouts :  Roger will be back in Newton on Wednesday, January 24.   Whether he’s in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone call (785-220-1968).

BCMC Offering for January 14, 2024:  General $5,915.83; Bell Choir $100; Plant Fund $8.33; Metta Lieb Mem. $100; Nancy Hilty Mem. $50.

Results of the Solar Panel Project Phase 1 Survey:
Good news for the future of solar at BCMC!  We received 79 responses to the Phase I Solar questionnaire submitted on behalf of 114 people.  Of the 79 responses, 78 (98.7%) were in favor of the project and 1 (1.3%) was not in favor of the project.  A total of $180,990 was pledged over 3 years, of which $127,990 was pledged by the 6/30/24 installation date.  Recall, the total project cost was quoted at $192,000.  Up to $96,000 had been designated as available from the bequest fund.  Additional grants or subsidies may be awarded.  More detailed information and a chance for final approval of the contract will be provided at the annual meeting.  We are grateful to the Creation Care solar subcommittee of Dwight Krehbiel, Lorna Harder, and Hugo Boschmann as well as Jon Zerger and Margaret Toews from the Board and the Finance Committee, chaired by LaVern Stucky, for all their careful homework, collaborative deliberations, and clear communications.  We of course are also thankful for the many people from our congregation who are supporting the project. — Ada Schmidt-Tieszen, Church Board Chair/Moderator

Congregational Meeting Set for January 28:
The next congregational meeting will take place on Sunday, January 28, at 12:45 following a soup lunch prepared by the Youth Group.  The meeting will be held in the sanctuary and made available live on YouTube only while the meeting is in progress; it will not be recorded.  Votes from remote viewers can be texted to a number available in Sunday’s bulletin and announced at the beginning of the meeting.  Agenda items will include a finance report from 2023 as well as approval of the budget for 2024, action on the revised Welcoming Statement, action on the proposal to change the church’s moderator model, report and proposal concerning the solar panel project, and an update on the Search Committee process. 

For the Financial Reports booklet which has the finance report from 2023 as well as the budget for 2024 press here
There are also copies in the gathering place – on the ledge by the mailboxes.

Welcome Statement:
The BCMC board has approved a recommendation from the Inclusion Task Group to revise our congregation’s welcome statement which is in the church’s constitution.  The revised version follows: 
“Bethel College Mennonite Church is an open and affirming congregation centered in the life and teachings of Jesus. Embracing the divine within each person, we warmly welcome any and all  into fellowship without regard to race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, economic status, marital status and age.”

Change in Moderator Model:
The Board has proposed a bylaws change to shift church officer positions from Moderator Elect and Moderator, each serving two-year terms with a total commitment of four years, to Moderator Elect, Moderator, and Past Moderator.  In the new model, each position would be held for one year with the Moderator Elect moving on to Moderator and Past Moderator in the following years, thus serving a three-year commitment.  In summary, the new model shortens the term of commitment by one year and establishes a three-person leadership team. 

Bethel College Announcements
(Sun., Jan. 21) – Bethel College Music Department Honors Recital, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel, featuring vocal and instrumental students who performed exceptionally during the fall 2023 semester. Livestreaming available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3OzxafyFgg&ab_channel=BethelCollegeMusicDepartment
· Fri., Jan. 26 – First event in the Bethel College Faculty Lecture Series, “Walking the Talk: Listening in Our Disciplines,” at Kidron Bethel Village, 11 a.m., Kidron Hall. Dr. Rachel Epp Buller, Bethel professor of visual arts and design and series organizer, will introduce the series and speak on “Walking and Listening in/as Artistic Practice.” 
· Sat., Jan. 27 – Kauffman Museum annual Kansas Day event, “Kansas Critters,” noon-4 p.m., museum parking lot and grounds. Featuring food trucks, exhibits and activities indoors and out, and much more. For more information, see the Kauffman Museum Facebook page or kauffmanmuseum.org
· Sat., Feb. 3 – Bethel College Faculty Recital: Dr. Christina Liu, piano, 2 p.m. [note time change], Administration Building chapel 
· Now in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College – “Forest Listening,” a sound art installation by Liz K. Miller, through Feb. 9. Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.

Hesston College Announcements
Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery
This year the Melva Kauffman Lecture Series hosts Mark Charles who will present on the topic of Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery. Charles is the son of an American woman of Dutch heritage and a Navajo man. He teaches with insight into the complexities of American history regarding race, culture and faith in order to help forge a path of healing and conciliation for the nation. The public is invited to hear his presentation at Hesston Mennonite Church Sunday, January 21, 2024, at 7 p.m

January 27 – Community Day
Join Hesston College for Community Day on Saturday, January 27, at Yost Center. The event features free admission to the Lark men’s and women’s basketball games vs. Neosho County as well as free popcorn, photos with Clark the Lark, performances by the HC dance team and free haircuts from alum Christy (Berkey) ’03 Pickerill, CC’s Family Hair. The women’s game starts at noon and the men’s game at 3 p.m. The Hesston High School pep band and cheerleaders will help cheer the Larks.

January 30 – History of Prairie Fires
Join the Winter Lecture Series at Dyck Arboretum of the Plains and learn about the history of prairie fires. You will learn about how fire helped shape the Great Plains and the lives of its residents. The lecture begins at 7 p.m. and will be held virtually. Visit dyckarboretum.org/events to register. There is a $5 cost.

January 27 is a work day on the Camp Mennoscah Retreat Center HVAC Project, the start of “demolition.” Work will start at 9 a.m. and end at 5 p.m. Bring your own lunch and water bottle, please, and meet at the Retreat Center. Camp Mennoscah will provide tools needed.  Space heaters will be used, but temperatures inside may be around 50 degrees. Please let us know you are coming so we can be prepared.
Contact olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290, 316-293-7313 (text).

For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
For Mennonite Disaster Service “On the Level” press here
For MC USA “Equipping” press here
For a Mennonite Men petition press here 

Everence® will hold an informative Social Security and retirement income workshop Thur., Jan. 25, 6:30 p.m. Topics will be Social Security strategies, including when to begin taking benefits, risks that can impact your retirement savings plus strategies to help your income last throughout retirement. There will also be plenty of time for questions.
In-person workshop will be at the Everence office: 3179 N. Main St. Suite 1B, North Newton. Information will be presented by staff from the Everence offices in Central Kansas. To register contact Everence at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com.

Come hear a short concert of choral music presented by the Occasional Singers, a chamber ensemble of talented musicians who don’t have a lot of time on their hands! Led by Andrew Voth, they will be singing choral standards as well as more contemporary pieces. The concert will occur at 2 p.m. on Sunday, January 21 at First Mennonite Church in Newton and will be free to attend.

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

February 10, Saturday Library Book Sale & Open House: Stop by the Western District Conference Resource Library on Saturday, February 10 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Browse the book sale, check out what’s new for individuals, families, children and more for home and congregational use. Enjoy a hot drink and stories with Bethel College Students.

WANTED—Cars, Trucks, Motorcycles, RV’s, Campers, Tractors, Modern Farm Equipment, etc. for the Kansas Mennonite Central Committee Sale.  Items you no longer need can help feed and clothe thousands in desperate living conditions.  ALL donations are Tax Deductible.  Call Jerry Toews for info: 620 367 8257.  Help make a difference. 

Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp Announcements

SPRING MENNONITE QUILTERS RETREAT – Camp’s first Quilters Retreat for 2024 is coming April 25-28. These retreats are a great opportunity to get away and get those projects done that have been waiting. While there will be some short, fun breaks, the main focus of this weekend will be giving participants plenty of time to sew. Bring lots of projects, or that one big project you’ve been waiting to start. Sharing ideas, tips and techniques are part of the weekend along with bringing any show and tell items to share with the group. To register, please visit the camp website at www.rmmc.org.

Winter Retreat volunteers– Camp is buzzing with Human Curling, broom ball on the pond and the swooshing of tubes coming down the tube run. We are looking forward to several retreats in the upcoming months and could use volunteers to assist staff to prepare and serve camp guests. Please visit the volunteer opportunities site on our website rmmc.org for dates and needs.
 

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Subscribe to PeaceMail to receive Mennonite Church USA’s blogs, together with news and resources in one weekly email. Subscribe to PeaceMail here: mennoniteusa.org/PeaceMailSubscribe

Menno Snapshots

Joanna Gerber Pinkerton, a member of Hope Mennonite Church, experienced a holy threshold in Glendalough, Ireland, through the story of St. Kevin, who chose gentleness over violence. Read her Menno Snapshots blog here: mennoniteusa.org/holy-thresholds

Sandra Montes-Martinez, associate conference minister of Western District Conference, shares how she has experienced culturally diverse congregations flourish with the practice of gratitude and cultural appreciation. Read her Menno Snapshots blog here: mennoniteusa.org/cultivating-gratitude

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request:  Today is Anabaptist World Fellowship Sunday. Mennonite Mission Network invites you to join in Mennonite World Conference’s prayers for the global church: to work together in harmony, to reduce suffering, and to become God’s people, who sow peace, love and truth.

Western District Conference Prayer Request:  Give thanks for generous financial contributions to WDC, supporting our mission of empowering Anabaptist/Mennonite congregations to witness and invite others to faith in Jesus Christ, dwell in just and loving relationships, and connect to God’s mission in the world.

DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER AND VERY COLD TEMPERATURES THERE WILL BE NO IN-PERSON WORSHIP SERVICE TODAY
JOIN US ON-LINE!

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR JANUARY 14, 2024
 

To livestream the worship service:
On Sunday morning, around 9:45, go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen, which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box below that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”.   Anytime after the service concludes, you can watch a recording of the service at your convenience by clicking the same green LIVE STREAM button.  Again, you will probably have to go to the gray box that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”.  That will transfer you to the BCMC YouTube Channel.  You will have to click on the tab “Videos” to see all of the BCMC videos. Click the red button to see the bulletin/order of service. 
OR – click on this link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/IGzMYP8srXw?feature=share

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
Martin Luther King, Jr. Sunday
January 14, 2024
 
 
Prelude—Give Me Jesus– (Traditional Spiritual; Setting by Bethany Smith)–Karen Unruh                    
 
Christ Candle Lighting 
 
Welcome and Prayer—Raylene Hinz-Penner
 
Hymn—Guide My Feet—VT 816
 
Children’s Conversation—Glen Ediger
 
Special Music—In the Rifted Rock I’m Resting (arr. Moyer)–Garber Quartet
 
Scripture Reading—Matthew 5:38-45;James 2:1-4,8-9,12-17—Justin Zerger
 
Sermon—Lessons from Ordinary Heroes—Roger Neufeld Smith
 
Hymn—Precious Lord—VT 610
 
Prayers of God’s People
 
Hymn—Lift Every Voice–VT 611
 
Benediction
 
Postlude–Soon and Very Soon–(arr. Schrader)–Karen Unruh
 

Audio-visual—Francis Toews 

Thank you to members of the Garber Quartet who are participating in worship Sunday morning. 

This Week at BCMC:  January 14—21, 2024
 
Sunday, January 14, 2024—Martin Luther King, Jr. Sunday
9:30 a.m.    Worship   Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/IGzMYP8srXw?feature=share
 
Due to inclement weather with very cold temperatures, there will be no in-person worship service today; the service will be streamed on-line.
  
Monday, January 15, 2024—Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Church building will be locked;  church office will be closed

Tuesday, January 16, 2024
5:30 p.m.  Faith Formation Commission meeting in fellowship hall
Wednesday, January 17, 2024
7-9 p.m.    Task Group on Indigenous Justice meeting in Room 14
7:30 p.m.  Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the sanctuary
Thursday, January 18, 2024
6:30 p.m.   Chancel Bells Rehearsal in Room B-7
Sunday, January 21, 2024
9:30 a.m.   Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz; music by the Chancel Choir; dedication of Elizabeth Mae Robb
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation

BCMC Women’s Fellowship has been canceled for the month of January.  Therefore, there will be no meeting on January 16.
 
Interested in becoming a member of Bethel College Mennonite Church?
If you are interested in becoming a member, or transferring membership, or learning more about  membership at BCMC, please contact Elizabeth Schmidt, Pastor of Congregational Care.  She will be happy to visit with you
 
The church building and office will be closed for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Monday, January 15.  We will reopen on January 16.
 
Roger’s Whereabouts :  Roger will be driving back to Topeka this Sunday afternoon. He will be back in Newton on Wednesday, January 24.   Whether he’s in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone call (785-220-1968).
 
BCMC Offering for January 7, 2024:  General $12,556; Living Stones $50; Kitchen Fund $17; Patty Shelly Memorial $500; Solar Fund $50; Gladys Niles Memorial $25.
 
Results of the Solar Panel Project Phase 1 Survey:
Good news for the future of solar at BCMC!  We received 79 responses to the Phase I Solar questionnaire submitted on behalf of 114 people.  Of the 79 responses, 78 (98.7%) were in favor of the project and 1 (1.3%) was not in favor of the project.  A total of $180,990 was pledged over 3 years, of which $127,990 was pledged by the 6/30/24 installation date.  Recall, the total project cost was quoted at $192,000.  Up to $96,000 had been designated as available from the bequest fund.  Additional grants or subsidies may be awarded.  More detailed information and a chance for final approval of the contract will be provided at the annual meeting.  We are grateful to the Creation Care solar subcommittee of Dwight Krehbiel, Lorna Harder, and Hugo Boschmann as well as Jon Zerger and Margaret Toews from the Board and the Finance Committee, chaired by LaVern Stucky, for all their careful homework, collaborative deliberations, and clear communications.  We of course are also thankful for the many people from our congregation who are supporting the project. — Ada Schmidt-Tieszen, Church Board Chair/Moderator

Congregational Meeting Set for January 28:
The next congregational meeting will take place on Sunday, January 28, at 12:45 following a soup lunch prepared by the Youth Group.  The meeting will be held in the sanctuary and made available live on YouTube only while the meeting is in progress; it will not be recorded.  Votes from remote viewers can be texted to a number available in Sunday’s bulletin and announced at the beginning of the meeting.  Agenda items will include a finance report from 2023 as well as approval of the budget for 2024, action on the revised Welcoming Statement, action on the proposal to change the church’s moderator model, report and proposal concerning the solar panel project, and an update on the Search Committee process. 
 
Welcome Statement:
The BCMC board has approved a recommendation from the Inclusion Task Group to revise our congregation’s welcome statement which is in the church’s constitution.  The revised version follows: 
“Bethel College Mennonite Church is an open and affirming congregation centered in the life and teachings of Jesus. Embracing the divine within each person, we warmly welcome any and all  into fellowship without regard to race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, economic status, marital status and age.”
 
Change in Moderator Model:
The Board has proposed a bylaws change to shift church officer positions from Moderator Elect and Moderator, each serving two-year terms with a total commitment of four years, to Moderator Elect, Moderator, and Past Moderator.  In the new model, each position would be held for one year with the Moderator Elect moving on to Moderator and Past Moderator in the following years, thus serving a three-year commitment.  In summary, the new model shortens the term of commitment by one year and establishes a three-person leadership team. 

WANTED—Cars, Trucks, Motorcycles, RV’s, Campers, Tractors, Modern Farm Equipment, etc. for the Kansas Mennonite Central Committee Sale.  Items you no longer need can help feed and clothe thousands in desperate living conditions.  ALL donations are Tax Deductible.  Call Jerry Toews for info: 620 367 8257.  Help make a difference. 
 

Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza: Call for Prayer and Action for Peace and Justice in Israel and Palestine.   Witness Commission 
On Dec. 19 Mennonite Action brought together nearly 2000 Mennonites and interfaith allies across North America to call for an immediate cease fire.  Some of our members joined other Kansas Mennonites at the offices of Senators Moran and Marshall in Wichita and Topeka.  Members can read Bob Atchison’s article in the Jan. 2 issue of the Newton Kansan.  Atchison chairs the Mennonite Palestine Israel Network and the Western District Task Force.  On Jan. 16, Mennonite Action, see online, is organizing action in Washington D.C.  The Witness Commission urges: 1. Support for the MCC humanitarian relief effort in Gaza; 2. Prayer for President Biden and other political leaders to support an immediate and permanent cease fire in Gaza; 3. Phone calls to the Wichita offices of Senators Moran and Marshall.  

Everence® will hold an informative Social Security and retirement income workshop Thur., Jan. 25, 6:30 p.m. Topics will be Social Security strategies, including when to begin taking benefits, risks that can impact your retirement savings plus strategies to help your income last throughout retirement. There will also be plenty of time for questions.
In-person workshop will be at the Everence office: 3179 N. Main St. Suite 1B, North Newton. Information will be presented by staff from the Everence offices in Central Kansas. To register contact Everence at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com.

Come hear a short concert of choral music presented by the Occasional Singers, a chamber ensemble of talented musicians who don’t have a lot of time on their hands! Led by Andrew Voth, they will be singing choral standards as well as more contemporary pieces. The concert will occur at 2 p.m. on Sunday, January 21 at First Mennonite Church in Newton and will be free to attend.

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

February 10, Saturday Library Book Sale & Open House: Stop by the Western District Conference Resource Library on Saturday, February 10 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Browse the book sale, check out what’s new for individuals, families, children and more for home and congregational use. Enjoy a hot drink and stories with Bethel College Students.

Bethel College Announcements
·  Mon., Jan. 15 – Bethel College Martin Luther King Jr. Day program, 6 p.m., Memorial Hall. The keynote speaker is historian, activist and servant leader Pamela D.C. Junior; also featuring the Bethel College Concert Choir.
·  Fri. Jan. 19 – “Forest Listening,” works by Liz K. Miller, opens in the Regier Art Gallery in Lukyen Fine Arts Center at Bethel College (no reception). Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
·  Sun., Jan. 21 – Bethel College Music Department Honors Recital, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel, featuring freshman, sophomore and junior vocal and instrumental students who performed exceptionally during the fall 2023 semester.
·  Fri., Jan. 26 – First event in the Bethel College Faculty Lecture Series, “Walking the Talk: Listening in Our Disciplines,” at Kidron Bethel Village, 11 a.m., Kidron Hall. Dr. Rachel Epp Buller, Bethel professor of visual arts and design and series organizer, will introduce the series and speak on “Walking and Listening in/as Artistic Practice.”
·  Sat., Jan. 27 – Kauffman Museum annual Kansas Day event, “Kansas Critters,” noon-4 p.m., museum parking lot and grounds. Featuring food trucks, exhibits and activities indoors and out, and much more. For more information, see the Kauffman Museum Facebook page or kauffmanmuseum.org

Hesston College Announcement—Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery
This year the Melva Kauffman Lecture Series hosts Mark Charles who will present on the topic of Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery. Charles is the son of an American woman of Dutch heritage and a Navajo man. He teaches with insight into the complexities of American history regarding race, culture and faith in order to help forge a path of healing and conciliation for the nation. The public is invited to hear his presentation at Hesston Mennonite Church Sunday, January 21, 2024, at 7 p.m.

Camp Mennoscah Announcements
Work Days on the Camp Mennoscah Retreat Center HVAC Project are Jan. 20 and 27. The first day will focus on removing furniture and other items from the building and the second will be the start of “demolition.” Work will start at 9 a.m. and end at 5 p.m. Bring your own lunch and water bottle, please, and meet at the Retreat Center. Camp Mennoscah will provide tools needed.  Space heaters will be used, but temperatures inside may be around 50 degrees. Please let us know you are coming so we can be prepared.
Contact olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290, 316-293-7313 (text).
 

Other events and happenings:

• Staff hours will be changing and offices will be moving from the Retreat Center around the 15th of January.  These changes are happening with the start of the Retreat Center HVAC Project.  There may be delays as the offices and staff are resettled in their new (temporary) locations.
   
• Interviews for the 2024 Summer Staff are underway!  Summer staff must be 18 years old or older.  The staff leadership positions receiving stipends are naturalist, crafts leader, lifeguard, grounds/maintenance, music leader, and office/media.  Get your application in soon, but applications will be accepted until all positions are filled. The 2024 summer camp season begins with orientation for summer-long positions on June 2 and ends August 4.  The application for 2024 Summer Staff at Camp Mennoscah can be found here.

For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network Urgent Prayer Request press here 
For Mennonite Mission Network “We Are Called To Work Together” press here

For Mennonite Church USA January 22 Webinar “Engaging MC USA’s Safe Church”  press here

For Mennonite World Conference press here

For Mennonite Disaster Service Feb. 23-24 Annual Celebration press here
 

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Join Mennonite Church USA’s Nancy Kauffmann, Michael Danner and Glen Guyton for a webinar on Monday, Jan. 22 at 7 p.m. EST/4 p.m. PST, in which they will discuss the vision and direction of the new Safe Church ministry, share resources for congregations and conferences, and answer questions about the future vision for Safe Church advocacy in our denomination. View the PDF here: mennoniteusa.org/slide/safe-webinar-jan
Register here: mennoniteusa.org/registration-safechurch-jan22

Menno Snapshots

As the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to rage on, Chris Hoover Seidel, who is part of the Mennonite Spiritual Directors Network, reflects on how she has learned to handle her own grief, while also holding space for those grieving around her. Read her Menno Snapshots blog here: mennoniteusa.org/grief-work
 
Equipping, Mennonite Church USA’s quarterly email newsletter for pastors and leaders features resources submitted by MC USA conferences, congregations, agencies, entities/ministry partners, constituency groups and affiliated schools and colleges. Subscribe to Equipping here: mennoniteusa.org/mc-usa-subscribe
 

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request:  Tomorrow, we remember Martin Luther King Jr., who followed Jesus’ way of nonviolent civil disobedience by bringing hope to people who have been denied justice. Pray for Mennonite Mission Network’s ministries of dismantling racism in the United States and around the world.

Western District Conference Prayer Request:  Pray for the WDC Executive Board and Commissions as they meet this month to provide guidance, leadership and vision for our conference.

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR 
January 7, 2024

To livestream the worship service:
On Sunday morning, around 9:45, go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen, which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box below that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”.   Anytime after the service concludes, you can watch a recording of the service at your convenience by clicking the same green LIVE STREAM button.  Again, you will probably have to go to the gray box that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”.  That will transfer you to the BCMC YouTube Channel.  You will have to click on the tab “Videos” to see all of the BCMC videos. Click the red button to see the bulletin/order of service. 
OR – click on this link for this Sunday:  https://youtube.com/live/VuqUJRWBAbQ?feature=share
 

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
January 7, 2024
Epiphany
 
Christ Candle Lighting
 
Centering Music—We Three Kings (D. Bish)–Will Wiebe-Friesen
 
Land Acknowledgement
 
Welcome and Prayer—Dale Schrag
 
*Hymn—Arise, Your Light Is Come!—VT 273
 
Children’s Conversation—Trent Voth
 
Anthem—See Whose Glory Fills the Skies (George Elderkin)–Chancel Choir; Riley King, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist
  
Scripture Reading—Malachi 4:1-5; Mark 1:1-11—Addie Zerger
 
Sermon— Epiphanies with David, Mark, and Jesus—Trent Voth
 
*Hymn—Spirit of the Living God—VT 740
 
Prayers of God’s People
 
*Hymn—O Beautiful Star of Bethlehem—VT 275
 
Benediction
 
Postlude—Nun ist sie erschienen (S. Vincent)–Will Wiebe-Friesen
 
* You are invited to stand
 
VT—Voices Together
Keyboard- Will Wiebe-Friesen
Audio visual—John Thiesen

Welcome Guest Speaker Trent Voth
We extend a warm welcome to Trent Voth as he preaches and facilitates the children’s conversation on January 7. Trent just completed his first semester as professor of Bible and Religion at Bethel College. He grew up in the Halstead area but he and his wife, Stephanie, and two sons, Devereaux (De-Ver-Row) and Darien moved back to the area from Toronto, Ontario, where Trent completed his PhD at the University of Toronto. Trent has a particular interest in The Gospel of Mark, anabaptist theologies, vocational discernment, and indigenous justice.

Preparing for Worship
As we gather for worship each Sunday in the sanctuary, the Worship Commission invites and encourages us to become quiet as we light the Christ Candle.  Prelude music has now been changed to Centering Music.  The Worship Commission invites your feedback as we experiment with a new order of worship.

Land Acknowledgement compiled by Florence Schloneger from words by Mark Charles and VT #878 
As we do on the first Sunday of each month,  
  we acknowledge that we worship  
  on the land of the Kanza, Osage, and Wichita.   
We thank them for their care and respect for this land      
  and acknowledge the injustice of their forced removal. 
We ask the Spirit to heal our histories 
  and find new paths of right relationships with them 
  and all of creation.   

This Week at BCMC:  January 7—14, 2024
Sunday, January 7, 2024—Epiphany
9:30 a.m.    Worship   Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/VuqUJRWBAbQ?feature=share
 
10:45 a.m.   Faith Formation
1:30 p.m.  Memorial Service for Jim Banman and Judy Coover in the
Kidron Bethel Hall
Memorial Service for Jim Banman and Judy Coover
 Please remember in your prayers Jim’s children, Steven, Susan, Christine, and T.J., and their families as they mourn the death of Jim on December 9.  A joint memorial service for Jim and his wife, Judith Coover, who died in 2020, will be held on January 7, 2024, 1:30 p.m. at Kidron Hall, Kidron Bethel Village.
4 p.m.  Service of Remembrance in the sanctuary—All are invited
YouTube Link for the Service of Remembrance: 
https://youtube.com/live/-xBnxGYqLTU?feature=share

Service of Remembrance
In order to recognize and mourn the loss of our loved ones from 2023, Bethel College Mennonite Church is hosting a Service of Remembrance  today, Jan. 7, at 4 p.m., in the BCMC sanctuary.
 
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 am  Faith Formation—Intergenerational class meets in  Fellowship Hall;   High School – Room 24    Adult Classes:  Agape Class meets in the nursery; Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5);  Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21)  Seekers (Rm 28)

Monday, January 8, 2024
7 p.m.  Facilities Committee meeting in the fellowship hall 
Tuesday, January 9, 2024
9 a.m.  Women’s Fellowship Executive Board meets in Room 14
7:00 p.m.  Finance Committee meeting in Room 14
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
7:30 p.m.  Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the sanctuary
Friday, January 12, 2024
11 a.m.      Memorial service of Nancy Hilty in the sanctuary followed by a light lunch in fellowship hall
Sunday, January 14, 2024
9:30 a.m.   Worship with sermon by Roger Neufeld Smith
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation

We offer sympathy to the family of Nancy Hilty.  Nancy died Dec. 30, 2023.  Nancy fell and suffered a massive brain bleed.  The memorial service will be at Bethel College Mennonite Church Fri., Jan. 12, 11 a.m. followed by a light lunch.  Remember in your prayers Nancy’s son Daniel, Daniel’s wife Kristen, and their children along with extended family.
 

Interested in becoming a member of Bethel College Mennonite Church?
If you are interested in becoming a member, or transferring membership, or learning more about  membership at BCMC, please contact Elizabeth Schmidt, Pastor of Congregational Care.  She will be happy to visit with you!
 
Roger’s Whereabouts :  Roger will be back in Newton on Wednesday, January 10. Whether he’s in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone call (785-220-1968).
  
BCMC Offering for December 31, 2023:  General $9,684.29; Memorial Fund $25; Plant Fund $50; Library Reserve Fund $55; Kitchen Fund $13; Solar Fund $1,000.

A Thank You from Beaty and Jim Robb
We wish to thank the congregation for helping us celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary.  We appreciate the many kind words expressed in
person or in the sentiments expressed on cards.  It was good to share cake and punch with our congregational family being a part of the BCMC
congregation for 41 of our 50 years of marriage.  The connections and friendships we have made run deep and we cherish our time with you.
Thanks need to go specifically to Adam and Jill for their efforts planning  and carrying out this event. Getting together with you all on Sunday morning in the Gathering Place was a great way to celebrate.
With love and good will...Beaty and Jim Robb

From the Board:
Congregational Meeting:
Our next congregational meeting will be held at 12:45 p.m. on January 28, 2024.  The following two items will be on the agenda:

Welcome Statement:
The BCMC board has approved a recommendation from the Inclusion Task Group to revise our congregation’s welcome statement which is in the church’s constitution.  This announcement constitutes the required 30 day notice for a vote on a constitutional change.  The revised version follows: 
Bethel College Mennonite Church is an open and affirming congregation centered in the life and teachings of Jesus. Embracing the divine within each person, we warmly welcome any and all  into fellowship without regard to race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, economic status, marital status and age.

Change in Moderator Model:
The Board has proposed a bylaws change to shift church officer positions from Moderator Elect and Moderator, each serving two-year terms with a total commitment of four years, to Moderator Elect, Moderator, and Past Moderator.  In the new model, each position would be held for one year with the Moderator Elect moving on to Moderator and Past Moderator in the following years, thus serving a three-year commitment.  In summary, the new model shortens the term of commitment by one year and establishes a three-person leadership team. 
The proposal and rationale can be accessed here. 

Pastoral News:
The Board has renewed Roger Neufeld Smith’s half-time contract for an additional year (or less if a new regular pastor is found).  We are so grateful for his willingness to continue offering his fine work, administrative and communication skills, and wisdom to our congregation in this transitional time. 
The Board has also renewed Elizabeth Schmidt’s half-time contract for an additional year.  Since she is now credentialed, her title has been changed to Pastor of Congregational Care.  Her job description, although revised, remains fundamentally the same.  Feedback from those working most closely with her was overwhelmingly positive and confirmed her pastoral gifts, organizational skills, and caring concern for congregants.  Thank you, Elizabeth!

Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza: Call for Prayer and Action for Peace and Justice in Israel and Palestine.   Witness Commission 

On Dec. 19 Mennonite Action brought together nearly 2000 Mennonites and interfaith allies across North America to call for an immediate cease fire.  Some of our members joined other Kansas Mennonites at the offices of Senators Moran and Marshall in Wichita and Topeka.  Members can read Bob Atchison’s article in the Jan. 2 issue of the Newton Kansan.  Atchison chairs the Mennonite Palestine Israel Network and the Western District Task Force.  On Jan. 16, Mennonite Action, see online, is organizing action in Washington D.C.  Members  might also consider registering on zoom for the “Emergency Summit for Gaza” Jan. 12-13 in Chicago organized by the Fellowship of Reconciliation (FOR).    The Witness Commission urges: 1. Support for the MCC humanitarian relief effort in Gaza; 2. Prayer for President Biden and other political leaders to support an immediate and permanent cease fire in Gaza; 3. Phone calls to the Wichita offices of Senators Moran and Marshall.  
  

Newton Community for Racial Justice is hosting its annual anti-racism training workshop from January 12 – 14 at the Newton Rec Center.  If you are willing to provide snacks, help setup and serve Sunday lunch, or monitor the coffee pot for 2 hours, please click here  to sign up.  Thank you, Margaret Toews for NCRJ
 

Bethel College Announcements
·  (Sun., Jan. 7) – Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum, “The Western Meadowlark: The State Bird, but Not the Only Exceptional Bird in Kansas,” with local birding expert Gregg Friesen, 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum at Bethel College.
· Sun., Jan. 21 – Bethel College Music Department Honors Recital, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel, featuring freshman, sophomore and junior vocal and instrumental students who performed exceptionally during the fall 2023 semester. 
· Bethel College’s Faculty Speaker series begins Friday, Jan. 26, and continues through April 19. During that time, seven different Bethel faculty members will discuss how listening opens up opportunities for learning as well as pathways for building, renewing and repairing relationships. All lectures are from 11 a.m.-noon in Kidron Hall at Kidron Bethel Village in North Newton, and are open to the public. Watch for further details!

Footsteps of Paul in Greece + 3-Night Cruise May 27 – June 6, 2024. Led by Pastor Weldon Martens, Grace Hill Mennonite Church; Whitewater, KS. This is a 11-Day Tour & Cruise to Athens, Thessalonica, Philippi, Corinth, Crete, Patmos, Ephesus, Mykonos & Santorini. Cost: $3,219 + flights. Registration: Due by January 18, 2024.  Contact Pastor Weldon Martens at: weldon.martens@gmail.com / 402-202-9276. Complete tour information & registration at www.tourwithweldon.com

Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp 
RMMC Scrapbook Retreat, Jan. 26-28 – Creating paper or digital photo books and sharing ideas and conversation is just another day for scrapbook participants.  You still have time to register and spend the weekend documenting life memories and fellowshipping with others. Register at rmmc.org!

Everence^® January Workshop: Social Security and retirement income
Everence^® will hold an informative Social Security and retirement income workshop on Thursday, January 25, starting at 6:30 p.m. Topics will include, Social Security strategies, including when to begin taking benefits, risks that can impact your retirement savings plus strategies to help your income last throughout retirement. There will also be plenty of time for questions.
The in-person workshop will be at the Everence office: 3179 N. Main St. Suite 1B, North Newton, KS. Information will be presented by staff from the Everence offices in Central Kansas. To register contact Everence at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com.

For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
For Mennonite Central Committee “In Touch” press here
For Mennonite Men “Engage” press here 
 

Greetings!

I’m writing to share about the Winter 2024 issue of Intersections: MCC Theory and Practice Quarterly, on the theme of “education for displaced children.” It is available now on-line here. Compiled by Lynn Longenecker, this issue features learning from and analysis of MCC’s support for children who are either refugees outside their country or are internally displaced within it. Authors reflect on the contextualized ways MCC works at education for displaced children in DR Congo, Guatemala, Uganda, Canada, Lebanon and Egypt.

As always, we welcome any feedback you have about this or other issues of Intersections! Send any thoughts, affirmations, critiques, and counsel you might have to intersections@mcc.org. Thanks for being a loyal reader!

Warm regards,

Alain Epp Weaver

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Safe Church, Mennonite Church USA’s newly formed abuse prevention ministry, now has a webpage available on the MC USA website. The webpage offers resources, including the updated Circle of Grace curriculum, to help faith communities keep children, youth and vulnerable adults safe from all abuse. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/safechurch
 
Menno Snapshots

Mennonite Action, a grassroots movement, united more than 800 Mennonites representing 250 congregations across the U.S. and Canada in a mobilizing call for peace, on Tuesday, Nov. 28, on Zoom. The “Call to Action” served as a resounding demand for a ceasefire, an end to the U.S.- and Western-funded occupation of Palestine, and a push for lasting peace. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/mennonite-action

Join us for Hope for the Future in Dallas, Texas on February 9-11, 2024. Hope for the Future is an annual gathering that brings together Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) leaders connected to Mennonite Church USA from across the nation. View the PDF here: mennoniteusa.org/slide/hftf23-savedate Learn more here: mennoniteusa.org/hopeforthefuture

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

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Lora Nafziger and Mitch Rhodes, who began a three-year assignment in September with United Mission to Nepal (UMN), working from the United States. Pray for this family, as Lora, Mitch and two of their four sons take up residence in Kathmandu, Nepal, this month. Lora is serving as UMN’s staff support and counseling advisor, and Mitch serves as the expatriate coordinator.


Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC and all its congregations as we begin a new year, remembering that the steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, and God’s mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning!  

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR 
December 31, 2023

To livestream the worship service:
On Sunday morning, around 9:45, go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen, which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box below that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”.   Anytime after the service concludes, you can watch a recording of the service at your convenience by clicking the same green LIVE STREAM button.  Again, you will probably have to go to the gray box that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”.  That will transfer you to the BCMC YouTube Channel.  You will have to click on the tab “Videos” to see all of the BCMC videos. Click the red button to see the bulletin/order of service. 
OR – click on this link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/eiX9SC9zi6U?feature=share
 
 

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
December 31, 2023
First Sunday After Christmas
 

Prelude—Go Tell it on the Mountain—Verlene Garber & Ben Lichti
 
Welcome and Prayer —Roger Neufeld Smith
 
Hymn—Come Away from Rush and Hurry—VT 9
 
*Advent Candle Hymn—Hope Is a Candle, verses 1-5 VT 211

Advent Candle Lighting—Elizabeth, Gabby, Jake, Jill & Adam Robb

*Advent Litany—Christ—VT 916
 
*Hymns—O Come, All Ye Faithful (Verses 1, 3, 4)—VT 241
                  Hark! The Herald Angels Sing—VT 247
 
Scripture Reading—Isaiah 11:1-6—Roger Neufeld Smith
 
Hymns—What Child is This—VT 267 and Helpless and Hungry—VT 268
                 Holy Night, Blessed Night—VT 262
 
Scripture Reading—Luke 2:22-40
 
Children’s Conversation based on Luke 2:22-40—The Robb Family
 
*Hymn—Come, Join in Mary’s Prophet-Song—VT 246
 
Meditation—Roger Neufeld Smith
 
*Hymn—Joy to the World—VT 240
 
Prayers of God’s People
 
*Hymn—Break Forth, O Beauteous Heavenly Light—VT 269–People with December birthdays come forward for a blessing, please bring a hymnal
 
Benediction—VT 1064  
 
Postlude— In Dulci Jubilo  (VT 261)–Verlene Garber and Ben Lichti
 
*You are invited to stand
Audio-Visual—Francis Toews
Keyboard—Verlene Garber
Trumpet—Ben Lichti
 

Sunday, December 31, the worship service will begin at 10 a.m.  We will sing a lot of Christmas hymns so come prepared to sing and rejoice!  There will be no Sunday School.

The congregation is invited to join Jim and Beaty Robb in celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary with a cake and punch
reception after worship Sunday, December 31. Please join the Robb family in the Gathering Space for fellowship time as we celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary, which was on December 28. All are welcome!
 

Roger’s Whereabouts :  Roger will be driving back to Newton on Sunday, December 31. He will be back in Newton on Wednesday, January 10.
Whether he’s in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone call (785-220-1968).

BCMC Offering for December 24, 2023:  General $29,197.61; MCC $25; Gen Fund 2024 $1,500; Library Reserve Fund $10; Living Stones $900; Women’s Fellowship $513; Caring fund $1,020.16.
 

This Week at BCMC:  December 31, 2023—January 7, 2024
Sun., Dec. 31, 2023—First Sunday After Christmas
10 a.m. Worship  No Sunday School
Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/eiX9SC9zi6U?feature=share
 
Mon., January 1, 2024—Happy New Year!
Church will be locked; church office closed for the holiday
Wed., Jan. 3, 2024
7:30 p.m.  Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the sanctuary
Thurs., Jan. 4, 2024
6:30 p.m.   Chancel Bells Rehearsal in Room B7
7 p.m.         Church Board meets in Room 14
Sun., Jan. 7, 2024—Epiphany
9:30 a.m.    Worship with sermon by Trent Voth; music by the Chancel Choir
10:45 a.m.   Faith Formation
Trent Voth is Bethel College’s Assistant Professor of Bible and Religion. He grew up near Bethel’s campus (Halstead, KS) but comes to Bethel by way of Toronto, ON where he obtained his PhD in Theology in New Testament studies. His primary research interests are in the Gospel of Mark and Anabaptist Theologies.
1:30 p.m.  Memorial Service for Jim Banman and Judy Coover in the
Kidron Bethel Hall
4 p.m.  Service of Remembrance in the sanctuary—All are invited

From the Board:
Congregational Meeting:
Our next congregational meeting will be held at 12:45 p.m. on January 28, 2024.  The following two items will be on the agenda:

Welcome Statement:
The BCMC board has approved a recommendation from the Inclusion Task Group to revise our congregation’s welcome statement which is in the church’s constitution.  This announcement constitutes the required 30 day notice for a vote on a constitutional change.  The revised version follows: 
Bethel College Mennonite Church is an open and affirming congregation centered in the life and teachings of Jesus. Embracing the divine within each person, we warmly welcome any and all  into fellowship without regard to race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, economic status, marital status and age.

Change in Moderator Model:
The Board has proposed a bylaws change to shift church officer positions from Moderator Elect and Moderator, each serving two-year terms with a total commitment of four years, to Moderator Elect, Moderator, and Past Moderator.  In the new model, each position would be held for one year with the Moderator Elect moving on to Moderator and Past Moderator in the following years, thus serving a three-year commitment.  In summary, the new model shortens the term of commitment by one year and establishes a three-person leadership team. 
The proposal and rationale can be accessed here. 

Pastoral News:
The Board has renewed Roger Neufeld Smith’s half-time contract for an additional year (or less if a new regular pastor is found).  We are so grateful for his willingness to continue offering his fine work, administrative and communication skills, and wisdom to our congregation in this transitional time. 
The Board has also renewed Elizabeth Schmidt’s half-time contract for an additional year.  Since she is now credentialed, her title has been changed to Pastor of Congregational Care.  Her job description, although revised, remains fundamentally the same.  Feedback from those working most closely with her was overwhelmingly positive and confirmed her pastoral gifts, organizational skills, and caring concern for congregants.  Thank you, Elizabeth!

Service of Remembrance
As we are in the holiday season that brings joy with the promise of new life and love birthed into our world, there is also grief as we miss those who have passed from this world in 2023.  In order to recognize and mourn the loss of our loved ones from 2023, Bethel College Mennonite Church is hosting a Service of Remembrance on January 7, 2024 at 4 p.m., in the BCMC sanctuary.

We offer sympathy to the family of Don Kaufman.  Don died December 18 at Kidron Bethel Village.  Please pray for Don’s children, Kendra Kaufman, Galen Kaufman, and Nathan (and Jill)  Kaufman, and their families.

Memorial Service for Jim Banman and Judy Coover
 Please remember in your prayers Jim’s children, Steven, Susan, Christine, and T.J., and their families as they mourn the death of Jim on December 9.  A joint memorial service for Jim and his wife, Judith Coover, who died in 2020, will be held on January 7, 2024, 1:30 p.m. at Kidron Hall, Kidron Bethel Village.

The library’s theme for the month of December is Advent/Christmas. We have quite a number of fiction/nonfiction choices for all ages. You might want to consider checking out books for visiting family members. We have so many good choices. Also, due to the Advent/Christmas Everybody books in the children’s section of the library, all the puzzles are now located in the library on the west wall. There are some wonderful choices for holiday family time. A suggested donation of $5 for a puzzle helps support the supplies needed to run the library. 
 
Also on the west wall are a number of new books that were recently purchased through our budget and sale at Faith and Life Bookstore. Come check out the new selections in all genres. A brief write up of the new books is available by the library computer.   Happy Holiday reading!
— Library Committee

The bulletin covers for Advent are used by permission from Salt Project,
https://www.saltproject.org/

Changes for the Beginning of Worship
As we begin 2024, the Worship Commission will be experimenting with a new format to begin our time of worship. There will be no prelude, but instead worship will begin with the sound of a bell or chime and lighting of the Christ candle at 9:30 a.m., then will move into a time of gathering/centering music, and will then move to the welcome and opening prayer. As you enter the worship space, we ask that once the chime sounds and the candle is lit, you refrain from conversation so that all can prepare for our time of worship together. The Worship Commission appreciates your flexibility and openness to trying new things in the new year!
 

Questionnaire for the Solar Project is due by January 3, 2024

At the December 10, 2023 congregational meeting, BCMC approved initiating Phase I of the Solar Panel project.  As part of Phase I, BCMC is using this Questionnaire.

For the questionnaire and more information click here

Paper copies of the questionnaire are available on the ledge in the BCMC Gathering Place.  Place these completed forms in the basket on the ledge.  Envelopes have been provided.  
Contact Margaret Toews with any questions.
 

.Bethel College Announcements
· Kauffman Museum at Bethel College invites you to visit during the holidays. Open hours are Tues.-Fri. 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and weekends 1:30-4:30 p.m. (closed Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve). The permanent exhibits are “Of Land and People,” “Mirror of the Martyrs” and “Mennonite Immigrant Furniture,” and the museum store is also open during those hours, with books, games, art and other gift items for sale (see kauffmanmuseum.org/museum-store/).
· Sun., Jan. 7 – Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum, “The Western Meadowlark: The State Bird, but Not the Only Exceptional Bird in Kansas,” with local birding expert Gregg Friesen, 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum at Bethel College.

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

The WDC Office and Resource Library will be closed through Jan 1. We will open again on Tuesday, Jan 2. 
 
Register now for the MCC South Texas Learning Tour, February 4-9, 2024! This immigration-focused learning tour presents a unique opportunity to engage directly with organizations making a positive impact on our neighbors. You won’t want to miss this opportunity. Details and online registration can be found at mcc.org/south-texas-lt. Deadline to sign up is Jan. 20. Please contact Abraham Diaz Alonso with questions,
abrahamdiazalonso@mcc.org.

For Mennonite Mission Network “News from around the world” press here
For Christmas and New Year’s message from Mennonite World Conference press here

From Mennonite Mission Network year end message press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Menno Snapshots

H.A Penner, war tax resister/redirector, explains the benefits of the Mennonite Church USA Church Peace Tax Fund, which offers an opportunity for Mennonites to redirect the portion of their taxes that would have otherwise supported war efforts toward peacebuilding efforts. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/war-tax-redirection 

Mennonite Church USA is helping to fuel growth and diversity with its 2023 Thrive Church Planting Grants. This year’s repeat award recipients, Brooklyn (New York) Peace Church and Community of Hope Mennonite Church, Bellingham, Washington, are building circles of community in creative, Jesus-centered ways. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/church-plants-thrive

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Although 2023 is ending with much suffering and violence around the world, join Mennonite Mission Network personnel in proclaiming our hope in Jesus, who has overcome evil and injustice. May each of us continue to “be the Gospel” wherever we find ourselves.

Western District Conference Prayer Request:  We lift up our church mission before God, seeking His divine intervention and guidance. We pray for the success of our church planting efforts, that hearts may be touched, and lives transformed by God’s love. Bless our church planters, provide resources, and strengthen the commitment of all involved. May Your light shine through our mission, bringing hope and healing to those we serve. In Jesus’ name, we present these requests. Amen. -WDC Church Planting Commission

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR 
December 24, 2023

To livestream the worship service:
On Sunday morning, around 9:45, go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen, which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box below that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”.   Anytime after the service concludes, you can watch a recording of the service at your convenience by clicking the same green LIVE STREAM button.  Again, you will probably have to go to the gray box that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”.  That will transfer you to the BCMC YouTube Channel.  You will have to click on the tab “Videos” to see all of the BCMC videos. Click the red button to see the bulletin/order of service. 
OR – click on this link for this Sunday:  https://youtube.com/live/mmGsiTK1Djs?feature=share
 

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
December 24, 2023
Fourth Sunday of Advent: Joy
Children’s Christmas Service

 
Prelude—The First Noel (Tufenkjian)—Abby Koontz
                  What Child is This—Brett and Collin Gaeddert
                  Silent Night—Caleb Koontz
                  French Lullaby—Lincoln Kohlman
                  Away in A Manger—Lucy Burch and Kenna Graber
                  O Holy Night—Naomi Koontz
 
*Advent Candle Hymn—Hope Is a Candle—verses 1-4—VT 211
 
Advent Candle Lighting—Lawrence, Lincoln, Megan & Brad Kohlman
 
*Advent Litany—Joy—VT 916
 
Welcome and Prayer—Nathan Koontz
 
*Hymn—He Came Down—VT 239—5 verses:  Joy, Hope, Peace, Love, Joy
 
Children’s Christmas Service—Sing and Tell the Story
 
*Hymn—With Mary Sing Magnificat—VT 208
 
Prayers of God’s People
 
*Hymn—Angels We Have Heard on High—VT 249
 
Benediction
 
Postlude—Hark, the Herald Angels Sing—Lucy Burch and Kenna Graber
 
* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Keyboard—Will Wiebe-Friesen
Audio visual—Ben Lichti

SING AND TELL THE STORY!
 
SCENES AND SONGS
 
Scene 1—Mary’s Home in Nazareth
Scene 2—Elizabeth’s Home in Judean Hill Country
                    Song—And My Spirit Sings
Scene 3—Joseph’s Carpenter Shop in Nazareth
Scene 4—On the Road from Nazareth to Bethlehem
                      Song—From Nazareth to Bethlehem
Scene 5—Shepherd’s Campsite near Bethlehem
Scene 6—Bethlehem
Scene 7—Everywhere!
                        Song—Go Tell It On the Mountain—VT  252
 
STORY TELLERS AND SINGERS
 
Faith Burch
Lucy Burch
Payne Claassen
Collin Gaeddert
Brett Gaeddert
Emma Gering
Emerson Gering
Adah Hodge
Lawrence Kohlman
Lincoln Kohlman
 
Abby Koontz
Ani Koontz
Naomi Koontz
Mara Oswald
Gabby Robb
Jake Robb
Lily Schloneger
Abram Wall
Mabel Wall
Addie Zerger
Justin Zerger
 
THANKS
 
Leaders:  Judy Harder, Mary Ellen Hodge, Tim Hodge, Jill Robb
Musicians:  Will Wiebe-Friesen, Suzy Burch, Tim Hodge, Susie Swartley
Back Drop Design and Builders:  Lauren Friesen, Ron Peters, Keith Harder
Props:  Judy Harder, Glen Ediger, David Kreider, Rose Haury
Intergenerational Sunday School Activities:  Deb Gering, Janet Friesen, Doug Miller, Maisie and Miles Brubacher
Others:  Ben Lichti, Audio-Visual and Monica Lichti
 
AND PARENTS!
 

LESSON AND CAROLS SERVICE FOR DECEMBER 24, 2023 AT 11 P.M.
YouTube Link for December 24, 11 p.m. Lessons and Carols Service
https://youtube.com/live/r54eKKox2BQ?feature=share

For the bulletin for the Lessons Carols Service press here

The church office will be closed during the week between Christmas and December 30. 
There will be no Wednesday email on December 27.

Sunday, December 31, the worship service will begin at 10 a.m.  We will sing a lot of Christmas hymns so come prepared to sing and rejoice!
 

Roger’s Whereabouts :  Though the church office will be closed next week, Roger will be back in Newton on Wednesday (12/27) to complete planning for the December 31 worship service and to respond to unexpected circumstances. Feel free to call him at 785-220-1968. He will be celebrating with family in Newton on Friday afternoon and Saturday, but will lead worship on Sunday. Roger will drive back to Newton Sunday afternoon Whether he’s in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone call (785-220-1968).

BCMC Offering for December 17, 2023:  General Fund $8,940.33; Plant Fund $108.33; Caring Fund $40; Living Stones $20; Flower Fund $25; Kitchen Fund $5.
 

From the Board:
Congregational Meeting:
Our next congregational meeting will be held at 12:45 p.m. on January 28, 2024.  The following two items will be on the agenda:

Welcome Statement:
The BCMC board has approved a recommendation from the Inclusion Task Group to revise our congregation’s welcome statement which is in the church’s constitution.  This announcement constitutes the required 30 day notice for a vote on a constitutional change.  The revised version follows: 
Bethel College Mennonite Church is an open and affirming congregation centered in the life and teachings of Jesus. Embracing the divine within each person, we warmly welcome any and all  into fellowship without regard to race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, economic status, marital status and age.

Change in Moderator Model:
The Board has proposed a bylaws change to shift church officer positions from Moderator Elect and Moderator, each serving two-year terms with a total commitment of four years, to Moderator Elect, Moderator, and Past Moderator.  In the new model, each position would be held for one year with the Moderator Elect moving on to Moderator and Past Moderator in the following years, thus serving a three-year commitment.  In summary, the new model shortens the term of commitment by one year and establishes a three-person leadership team. 
The proposal and rationale can be accessed here. 
 

Pastoral News:
The Board has renewed Roger Neufeld Smith’s half-time contract for an additional year (or less if a new regular pastor is found).  We are so grateful for his willingness to continue offering his fine work, administrative and communication skills, and wisdom to our congregation in this transitional time. 
The Board has also renewed Elizabeth Schmidt’s half-time contract for an additional year.  Since she is now credentialed, her title has been changed to Pastor of Congregational Care.  Her job description, although revised, remains fundamentally the same.  Feedback from those working most closely with her was overwhelmingly positive and confirmed her pastoral gifts, organizational skills, and caring concern for congregants.  Thank you, Elizabeth!

BCMC Programs 

Christmas Eve Sunday, December 24, 2023 – 10 a.m.  Christmas Worship Service with the children and youth in the sanctuary followed by refreshments in the gathering place :  NOTE the change of time – worship starting at 10 a.m.
No Sunday school
Congregants are welcome to bring Christmas snacks to share for our coffee time in the gathering place after the  worship service Dec. 24.  

December 24, 2023, 11 p.m.       Lessons and Carols and candle-lighting service in the sanctuary

Sunday, December 31, 2023 – 10 a.m.  First Sunday after Christmas
Christmas Hymn Sing in the sanctuary — NOTE the later time for worship
No Sunday school

Service of Remembrance
As we are in the holiday season that brings joy with the promise of new life and love birthed into our world, there is also grief as we miss those who have passed from this world in 2023.  In order to recognize and mourn the loss of our loved ones from 2023, Bethel College Mennonite Church is hosting a Service of Remembrance on January 7, 2024 at 4 p.m., in the BCMC sanctuary.

We offer sympathy to the family of Don Kaufman.  Don died December 18 at Kidron Bethel Village.  Please pray for Don’s children, Kendra Kaufman, Galen Kaufman, and Nathan (and Jill)  Kaufman, and their families.

Memorial Service for Jim Banman and Judy Coover
 Please remember in your prayers Jim’s children, Steven, Susan, Christine, and T.J., and their families as they mourn the death of Jim on December 9.  A joint memorial service for Jim and his wife, Judith Coover, who died in 2020, will be held on January 7, 2024, 1:30 p.m. at Kidron Hall, Kidron Bethel Village.

The library’s theme for the month of December is Advent/Christmas. We have quite a number of fiction/nonfiction choices for all ages. You might want to consider checking out books for visiting family members. We have so many good choices. Also, due to the Advent/Christmas Everybody books in the children’s section of the library, all the puzzles are now located in the library on the west wall. There are some wonderful choices for holiday family time. A suggested donation of $5 for a puzzle helps support the supplies needed to run the library. 
 
Also on the west wall are a number of new books that were recently purchased through our budget and sale at Faith and Life Bookstore. Come check out the new selections in all genres. A brief write up of the new books is available by the library computer.   Happy Holiday reading!
— Library Committee

The bulletin covers for Advent are used by permission from Salt Project,
https://www.saltproject.org/

Changes for your church directories:
· Note that Doug Penner’s email address is:  dougpenn@sbcglobal.net
· Andrew Thiesen’s new address:  309 Davis Street,  Garden City, KS 67846

Changes for the Beginning of Worship
As we begin 2024, the Worship Commission will be experimenting with a new format to begin our time of worship. There will be no prelude, but instead worship will begin with the sound of a bell or chime and lighting of the Christ candle at 9:30 a.m., then will move into a time of gathering/centering music, and will then move to the welcome and opening prayer. As you enter the worship space, we ask that once the chime sounds and the candle is lit, you refrain from conversation so that all can prepare for our time of worship together. The Worship Commission appreciates your flexibility and openness to trying new things in the new year!
 

Questionnaire for the Solar Project

At the December 10, 2023 congregational meeting, BCMC approved initiating Phase I of the Solar Panel project.  As part of Phase I, BCMC is using this Questionnaire.

For the questionnaire and more information click here

Paper copies of the questionnaire are available on the ledge in the BCMC Gathering Place.  Place these completed forms in the basket on the ledge.  Envelopes have been provided.  
Contact Margaret Toews with any questions.
 

.Bethel College Announcements
· Kauffman Museum at Bethel College invites you to visit during the holidays. Open hours are Tues.-Fri. 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and weekends 1:30-4:30 p.m. (closed Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve). The permanent exhibits are “Of Land and People,” “Mirror of the Martyrs” and “Mennonite Immigrant Furniture,” and the museum store is also open during those hours, with books, games, art and other gift items for sale (see kauffmanmuseum.org/museum-store/).
· Sun., Jan. 7 – Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum, “The Western Meadowlark: The State Bird, but Not the Only Exceptional Bird in Kansas,” with local birding expert Gregg Friesen, 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum at Bethel College.

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

The WDC Office and Resource Library will be closed for Christmas and New Years from Dec 23 through Jan 1. We will open again on Tuesday, Jan 2. Be sure to stop by the WDC Resource Library prior to this to pick up books for your kids, your grandkids or yourself to enjoy during the holiday break!
 
Register now for the MCC South Texas Learning Tour, February 4-9, 2024! This immigration-focused learning tour presents a unique opportunity to engage directly with organizations making a positive impact on our neighbors. You won’t want to miss this opportunity. Details and online registration can be found at mcc.org/south-texas-lt. Deadline to sign up is Jan. 20. Please contact Abraham Diaz Alonso with questions,
abrahamdiazalonso@mcc.org.

For Mennonite Church USA  Christmas Greetings press here
Mennonite Church USA’s The Corinthian Plan is open for enrollment on Nov.1 through Dec. 31, 2023, for a Jan. 1, 2024 start date. The Corinthian Plan is a self-funded, health care plan for pastors and church workers, sponsored and owned by Mennonite Church USA. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/open-tcp24

Mennonite Church USA has relaunched Equipping, a quarterly, resource e-newsletter for pastors and leaders across MC USA. Read the Fall 2023 issue here: mennoniteusa.org/equipping-archive-11-2024 View the PDF here: mennoniteusa.org/pdf/equipping-subscribe

Menno Snapshots

Jon Carlson, moderator for Mennonite Church USA, reflects on how Mennonite Church USA is better together and how our collective participation in the church shapes us and reflects who we are as a body. Read his reflections here: mennoniteusa.org/where-mc-usa-going
 

For Mennonite Disaster Service press here
For Mennonite Disaster Service “On The Level” press here 
For Christmas Greetings from Mennonite Mission Network press here
For Mennonite World Conference “Info” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
 

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request:  Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for peace in the land where Jesus was born more than 2000 years ago. Pray, especially, for partners — Bethlehem Bible College, Nazareth Hospital and Nazareth Village — who faithfully work to peel away the layers of fear and hate that distort Jesus’ message of peace, in a time of escalating violence in Israel-Palestine.

Western District Conference Prayer Request:  Rejoice in the gift of Emmanuel, God-with-us! Give thanks for the many ways that WDC congregations embody Jesus’ presence in the world today.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!