BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH December 17, 2023 Third Sunday of Advent: Love
Prelude—Nocturno, Op. 7 (Franz Strauss); Allegro moderato from Horn Concerto No. 1 in C Minor (Franz Strauss)— Chris Miertschin, horn; Will Wiebe-Friesen, piano
*Advent Candle Hymn—Hope Is a Candle, verses 1-3—VT 211
Advent Candle Lighting—Coralee Shenk, Jeanette & Steve Stucky
*Advent Litany—Love—VT 916
Welcome and Prayer—Esther Kreider Eash
*Hymn—O Come, O Come Immanuel—VT 210
Children’s Conversation—Esther Koontz
Anthem—Christmas is Here (Dale Wood)— Chancel Choir; Riley King, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist
Scripture Reading—John 1:1-9
*Hymn—The Light Shines in the Darkness—Bulletin insert
Adah Hodge, Mara Oswald, Lily Schloneger sing verses—Congregation sings chorus
Scripture Reading—I John 4:7-12
Sermon—God’s Love Revealed—Roger Neufeld Smith
*Hymn—Love Came Down at Christmas—VT 255
Prayers of God’s People
(Hymn Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord— VT 219)
*Hymn Love Has Come—VT 258
Benediction
Postlude—Toccata on Joy to the World (Brenda Portman)—Will Wiebe-Friesen
To livestream the worship service: On Sunday morning, around 9:20, go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen, which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box 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/Wi3ZHcRxKYA?feature=share
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH December 17, 2023 Third Sunday of Advent: Love
Prelude—Nocturno, Op. 7 (Franz Strauss); Allegro moderato from Horn Concerto No. 1 in C Minor (Franz Strauss)— Chris Miertschin, horn; Will Wiebe-Friesen, piano
*Advent Candle Hymn—Hope Is a Candle, verses 1-3—VT 211
Advent Candle Lighting—Coralee Shenk, Jeanette & Steve Stucky
*Advent Litany—Love—VT 916
Welcome and Prayer—Esther Kreider Eash
*Hymn—O Come, O Come Immanuel—VT 210
Children’s Conversation—Esther Koontz
Anthem—Christmas is Here (Dale Wood)— Chancel Choir; Riley King, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist
Scripture Reading—John 1:1-9
*Hymn—The Light Shines in the Darkness—Bulletin insert Adah Hodge, Mara Oswald, Lily Schloneger sing verses—Congregation sings chorus
Scripture Reading—I John 4:7-12
Sermon—God’s Love Revealed—Roger Neufeld Smith
*Hymn—Love Came Down at Christmas—VT 255
Prayers of God’s People
(Hymn Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord— VT 219)
*Hymn Love Has Come—VT 258
Benediction
Postlude—Toccata on Joy to the World (Brenda Portman)—Will Wiebe-Friesen * You are invited to stand VT—Voices Together Keyboard—Will Wiebe-Friesen Audio visual—Frances Toews
Chris Miertschin, assistant professor of music and director of bands at Bethel College, is our guest musician this Sunday. He lives in Abilene with his husband Jair and plays horn with the Salina Symphony Orchestra and Theatre Salina.
Used by permission from MennoMedia and Herald Press
This Week at BCMC: December 17—24, 2023 Sun., Dec. 17, 2023—Third Sunday of Advent 9:30 a.m. Worship 10:45 a.m. Faith Formation Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/Wi3ZHcRxKYA?feature=share
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School 10:45 a.m. Faith Formation—Intergenerational class (fellowship hall); High School (Room 24) Adult Classes: Agape (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) Tues., Dec. 19, 2023 11 a.m. Staff Meeting 7 p.m. Womens’ Fellowship Program in Fellowship Hall—Prairie Bronze Ensemble Bell Choir will perform Christmas music—All are invited Wed., Dec. 20, 2023 7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal in the sanctuary Thurs., Dec. 21, 2023 5:30 p.m. Pizza followed by the rehearsal at 6 p.m. 5:30 p.m. Rehearsal for Christmas worship service in sanctuary Sun., Dec. 24, 2023—Fourth Sunday of Advent 10 a.m. Christmas Worship Service with the children and youth in the sanctuary followed by refreshments in the gathering place No Sunday school 11 p.m. Lessons and Carols and candle-lighting service in the sanctuary
The church office will be closed during the week between Christmas and December 30.
Roger’s Whereabouts : Roger will be driving back to Topeka Sunday afternoon (12/17). He will be celebrating Christmas with his Topeka church, then back in Newton on Wed., Dec. 27, to help plan the BCMC worship service for Dec. 31. He will be available for pastoral care concerns that week. 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).
The Prairie Bronze Ensemble will perform Christmas music Tues., Dec. 19, in Fellowship Hall at 7 p.m. The public is invited so please bring friends and family to enjoy the bell choir sponsored by BCMC Women’s Fellowship.
Congregants are welcome to bring Christmas snacks to share for our coffee time in the gathering place after the worship service Dec. 24. There will be no Sunday School on Dec. 24.
From the Board: Thank you for your attendance and participation Sunday, December 10, in the vote indicating support for moving ahead with the solar panel project. The vote was 68 yes, 5 no; this means that more than 93% of those voting were in favor of further exploring solar panels on our church. Phase II will now begin. You can expect a chance to further express interest and make a pledge within the next several weeks. There will likely be a final vote for a more specific proposal at our next congregational meeting on January 28. Thank you so much to the solar panel subgroup of the Creation Care Committee, to the Finance Committee, and to several board members (specially Margaret Toews and Jon Zerger) for much hard work on this project and in preparation for the presentation yesterday. — Ada Schmidt-Tieszen, BCMC Board Chair/Moderator
Public Witness in Wichita for Gaza Ceasefire, December 19
The BCMC Witness Commission along with the WDC Israel Palestine Task Force invites you, family, friends and allies to join Mennonite Action on Tuesday, December 19, for a public witness at Senator Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall’s offices in Wichita, KS to ask for a ceasefire in Gaza and Israel. We will meet at Lorraine Avenue Mennonite Church, 655 S Lorraine ST, at 10:30 am to rehearse the actions which include prayer, singing and sharing bread with congressional staffers and each other. We encourage fasting or bring your own lunch. We will drive and park near the offices of the Senators. There may be a $2-$3 parking fee. There will be a 6-block walk between Senator Moran and Senator Marshall’s offices. This is a somber event, and we encourage participants to wear black. A script of the event will be provided, and we should be finished by 3 pm. Specific questions may be referred to Kathy Neufeld Dunn at 620-755-4331 or Bob Atchison at 785-313-2292. Those from BCMC interested in attending are encouraged to gather on Sunday morning after worship in the front of the sanctuary to discuss plans and possible carpooling.
Sympathy Notice We offer sympathy to the family of Jim Banman. Jim died December 9 at Kidron Bethel Village. Please remember in your prayers Jim’s children, Steven, Susan, Christine, and T.J., and their families. The funeral will be January 7, 2024, 1:30 p.m. at Kidron Hall, Kidron Bethel Village.
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 on January 7, 2024 at 4 pm, in the BCMC sanctuary.
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
New BCMC directories are available in the Gathering Place between the mailboxes and in the south entrance on the glass table.
It’s about over, in just two weeks we will know for sure how we did financially this year. So if you haven’t gotten all your pledges fulfilled or if you want to give some money to the church or perhaps need an additional tax write-off, it’s time to do it. From the Finance Committee we want to thank you for making this a great year and we urge you to help us finish well so that it can be a really great year. Looking ahead to 2024, the financial picture is much more cloudy. There is a big gap between the intents and the proposed budget. We and the Church Board are looking for creative ways to deal with this problem. You can help by making sure that you have pledged or that you have pledged your maximum. Also your suggestions are coveted and your prayers for wisdom are coveted. With your help 2024 can be a great year also. — Finance Committee
BCMC Women’s Fellowship Birthday Calendars are available from WF Executive Board members: Lois Brubacher 620-837-3281; Lois Preheim 316-804-4713 Brenda Turner 316-283-8131; Janet Voth 316-283-1922 The suggested donation price is $10. This calendar project is designed to help build community and the donation is used to support WF Ministries.
Registration for the upcoming Kansas Mennonite Men’s Chorus season is at hand. Please consider joining. Some of you are already on the list and we certainly encourage new members. For further details please contact Joe Peters, BCMC contact.
BCMC Offering for December 10, 2023: General Fund $20,891.75; Gen Fund 2024 $2,125; Caring Fund $100; Library Reserve Fund $50; Flower Fund $20; Kitchen Fund $17; Women’s Fellowship $110; Solar Fund $3,000; Gladys Niles Memorial $270.
The Deacons Commission is working on a “Thinking of You” campaign for people who are isolated due to health concerns. For the next few Sundays, we will have a table at the back of the sanctuary with pages for your comments to members of our church whom we haven’t been able to see for a while. Please stop by and write a short greeting or sign your name to let them know we are thinking about them. For those of you who are unable to attend worship but can stop by the church during the week, these letters will be in the gathering place during the week for anyone to write a note before we send them out. Thank you! — Deacon Commission
Creation Care: While you are active in your Christmas shopping please remember to save plastic bags for recycling. We have collected 500 pounds with a goal of 1,000 pounds. — Vern and Jane Goering
Bethel College/Kauffman Museum Announcements (Sun., Dec. 17) – Kauffman Museum celebration of the 75th anniversary of the longest running community science project in the world, the Harvey County Christmas Bird Count. Come and go at the museum from 1:30-4:30 p.m. to see the progress of the special exhibit “A Day with the Birds,” with brief remarks at 3 p.m.
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/).
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
Greetings from Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp,Below, please find the following announcements for your congregation for upcoming camp programs here at RMMC.RMMC Online Trading Post: Still looking for that perfect Christmas gift? Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp has you covered. Check out the online Trading Post at tradingpost@rmmc.org for t-shirts, sweatshirts, and other RMMC items we can ship to you! We would also love to work with you to provide the gift of a summer camp experience for a loved one. Contact RMMC to discuss the options and to receive a coupon to represent your gift. Any gift you give is also a gift to camp and we appreciate your support. RMMC Volunteer Opportunities: The ministry at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp is possible because of the dedication of countless volunteers. Camp is still in need of volunteers for our winter programs, including Jr High Snow camp January 19-21, and Sr High snow camp February 18-20. Please visit our volunteer page on the website rmmc.org to sign up!
Register now for the Mennonite Central Committee 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 and Beyond” press here
For Eastern Mennonite Seminary Shalom Collaboratory press here
For Mennonite Education Agency “Looking Ahead to 2024” press here
Mennonite Church USA Announcements Mennonite Church USA’s Constituency Leaders Council brainstormed strategies for strengthening youth engagement at its first meeting of the 2023-2025 biennium via Zoom on October 27, 2023. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/clc-youth-engagement
Save the date for Hope for the Future 2024, the annual gathering of Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) leaders from across the country who are connected to Mennonite Church USA, on February 9-11, 2024 in Dallas, Texas. Learn more here: mennoniteusa.org/hopeforthefuture View the PDF here: mennoniteusa.org/hftf24-savedate
Menno Snapshots
Cyneatha Millsaps, executive director of Mennonite Women USA, reflects on how gun violence has effected the country, her community and her own family in a blog for Mennonite Church USA. Read her reflection here: mennoniteusa.org/spiritually-emotionally-bankrupt
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: SADRA (Southern African Development and Reconstruction Agency) Conflict Transformation is a Mennonite Mission Network partner that offers a Christian response to injustice in South Africa. Pray for the conflict mediators, who train members of their communities to de-escalate situations that could lead to violence.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for generous financial support for WDC congregations, as they seek to meet annual budget goals for mission and ministry.
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH December 10, 2023 Second Sunday of Advent: Peace
Prelude—O Come, All Ye Faithful (VT 214); Ding Dong! Merrily on High (Dobrinski); Coventry Carol (Eithun), Lucy Burch, Flute; Amen, Amen (Lamb)–Chancel Bell Choir, Verlene Garber, director; Members of the Chancel Bells: Lucy Burch, Suzanne Burch, Ben Lichti, Marlene Ewert, Jane Schmidt, Janet Lubbers, Brenda Turner, Carol Gebrand, Nathan Garber, Ron Garber, Gyles Garber, Caleb Garber
*Advent Candle Hymn— Hope Is a Candle, verses 1-2—VT 211
Advent Candle Lighting—Lucy and Faith Burch
*Advent Litany—Peace— VT 916
Welcome and Prayer—Adam Robb
*Hymn—Comfort, Comfort, O My People—VT 212
Children’s Conversation—Esther Koontz
Scripture Reading—Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13—Suzanne, Lucy, and Faith Burch
Sermon—A God of Peace—Nathan Koontz
*Hymn—Unexpected and Mysterious—VT 229
Prayers of God’s People
*Hymn—Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming—VT 216
Benediction
Postlude—Variations on In Dulci Jubilo (Theodore Beck)—Karen Schlabaugh
* You are invited to stand VT—Voices Together Keyboard—Karen Schlabaugh Audio visual—John Thiesen
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH ANNOUNCEMENTS AND WORSHIP SERVICE FOR DECEMBER 10, 2023
To livestream the worship service: On Sunday morning, around 9:20, go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen, which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box 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/NqmMP6oZAcY?feature=share
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH December 10, 2023 Second Sunday of Advent: Peace
Prelude—O Come, All Ye Faithful (VT 214); Ding Dong! Merrily on High (Dobrinski); Coventry Carol (Eithun), Lucy Burch, Flute; Amen, Amen (Lamb)–Chancel Bell Choir, Verlene Garber, director; Members of the Chancel Bells: Lucy Burch, Suzanne Burch, Ben Lichti, Marlene Ewert, Jane Schmidt, Janet Lubbers, Brenda Turner, Carol Gebrand, Nathan Garber, Ron Garber, Gyles Garber, Caleb Garber
*Advent Candle Hymn— Hope Is a Candle, verses 1-2—VT 211
Advent Candle Lighting—Lucy and Faith Burch
*Advent Litany—Peace— VT 916
Welcome and Prayer—Adam Robb
*Hymn—Comfort, Comfort, O My People—VT 212
Children’s Conversation—Esther Koontz
Scripture Reading—Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13—Suzanne, Lucy, and Faith Burch
Sermon—A God of Peace—Nathan Koontz
*Hymn—Unexpected and Mysterious—VT 229
Prayers of God’s People
*Hymn—Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming—VT 216
Benediction
Postlude—Variations on In Dulci Jubilo (Theodore Beck)—Karen Schlabaugh
* You are invited to stand VT—Voices Together Keyboard—Karen Schlabaugh Audio visual—John Thiesen
There are poinsettias all around the church for this Christmas season. To see who donated these poinsettias and who they are in honor or memory of press here.
This Week at BCMC: December 10—17, 2023
Sun., Dec. 10, 2023—Second Sunday of Advent 9:30 a.m. Worship Brief congregational meeting after worship 10:45 a.m. Faith Formation Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/NqmMP6oZAcY?feature=share
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School 10:45 a.m. Faith Formation—Intergenerational class (fellowship hall); High School (Room 24) Adult Classes: Agape (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) Mon., Dec. 11, 2023 5:30 p.m. Faith Formation Commission meeting at Mary Ellen Hodge’s home Tues., Dec. 12, 2023 9 a.m. Womens’ Fellowship Executive Board meeting in Fellowship Hall 11 a.m. Staff Meeting 12 noon Mid Kansas Investment Club meeting in Fellowship Hall 7:15 p.m. Pastoral Search Committee meeting in Room 14 Wed., Dec. 13, 2023 7 p.m. Rehearsal for Christmas worship service in Fellowship Hall 7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal in the sanctuary Thurs., Dec. 14, 2023 9 a.m. Community Playschool Christmas celebration in Fellowship Hall Sun., Dec. 17, 2023—Third Sunday of Advent 9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Roger Neufeld Smith; music by Chancel Choir; 10:45 a.m. Faith Formation
Preparing for Worship As we gather for worship each Sunday in the sanctuary, the Worship Commission invites and encourages us to become quiet as the prelude centers us for worship. Conversation is welcome and encouraged in the Gathering Place outside of the sanctuary during the prelude. We invite all who are present in the sanctuary to find their seats and quietly participate in preparing for worship.
The church board is calling a brief special congregational meeting following worship in the sanctuary, Sunday, December 10, 2023 to act on the following board recommendation: Does BCMC approve the initiation of a pledge drive for the purpose of soliciting funds and support for the solar project? The details of a pledge drive will be worked out if an initial vote indicates significant support. The purpose of this vote is to determine the level of support from the congregation for a roof-top solar installation on our church. A review of the solar project as presented at the September congregational meeting and in two subsequent Sunday School hour meetings was distributed to mailboxes the week of November 27.
Roger’s Whereabouts : Roger is currently in Topeka. He will return to Newton this coming Wednesday, December 13 and will preach at BCMC on Sunday, December 17. 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).
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
BCMC Offering for December 3, 2023: General Fund $8,964.33; Plant Fund $200; Gen Fund 2024 $25; Caring Fund $1,267; Library Reserve Fund $17; Kitchen Fund $21; Solar Fund $5,000; Gladys Niles Memorial $100. Save the date, January 28, 2024 for Congregational Meeting and Soup Luncheon prior to the congregational meeting and the next fun-filled congregation and youth activity!
BCMC Women’s Fellowship Executive Board meets Tuesday, December 12 at 9 a.m. in Room 14. Save the Date – Sponsored by BCMC Women’s Fellowship “Prairie Bronze Ensemble Bell Choir” will perform Christmas music at BCMC Tuesday, December 19 at 7 p.m. More details will follow next week.
BCMC Women’s Fellowship Birthday Calendars are available from WF Executive Board members: Lois Brubacher 620-837-3281; Lois Preheim 316-804-4713 Brenda Turner 316-283-8131; Janet Voth 316-283-1922 The suggested donation price is $10. This calendar project is designed to help build community and the donation is used to support WF Ministries.
Mark Stucky, daughter Marike Stucky and son Matt Stucky would like to thank the BCMC community for your support after Gladys and Gail’s passing. Cards, emails, texts and hugs were appreciated a great deal. Your kind words sustained us through this difficult journey.
Registration for the upcoming Kansas Mennonite Men’s Chorus season is at hand. Please consider joining. Some of you are already on the list and we certainly encourage new members. For further details please contact Joe Peters. BCMC Contact call or text (316) 288-7031 or email joelilp@cox.net
Congregants are welcome to bring Christmas snacks to share for our coffee time in the gathering place after the worship service on December 24. There will be no Sunday School on December 24. The church office will be closed during the week between Christmas and December 30.
New BCMC directories are available. There is a box in the Gathering Place between the mailboxes and two boxes in the south entrance on the glass table.
The Deacons Commission is working on a “Thinking of You” campaign for people who are isolated due to health concerns. For the next few Sundays, we will have a table at the back of the sanctuary with pages for your comments to members of our church whom we haven’t been able to see for a while. Please stop by and write a short greeting or sign your name to let them know we are thinking about them. For those of you who are unable to attend worship but can stop by the church during the week, these letters will be in the library during the week for anyone to write a note before we send them out. Thank you! — Deacon Commission
Creation Care: While you are active in your Christmas shopping please remember to save plastic bags for recycling. We have collected 345 pounds with a goal of 1,000 pounds. — Vern and Jane Goering
You are invited to the Annual Christmas Brass Choir Concert at Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church, Sundayt, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m., 1304 K-15 Hwy, Goessel for some Good Old Fashioned Christmas Festive Music and Cheer!
Mennonite Central Committee Material Resources Center in North Newton is critically low on inventory: An MCC kit cannot be distributed until each item for the kit is assembled, but some supplies in the Material Resources Center are so low that kits cannot be processed for shipping. You can help by filling the following needs: new infant onesies and sleepers (6-12 month sizes); new bath towels (dark colored, light to medium weight); new hand towels (dark colored). Locally, MCC distributes prisoner care and returning citizen care kits, for those kits we currently need: men’s shirts (sizes XL, 2XL, 3XL — any color) and men’s underwear (sizes 2XL, 3XL — any color). Buy online and ship it to MCC or bring items to MCC in North Newton (121 E. 30th St, North Newton). Questions: contact brociamueller@mcc.org or 316.283.2720. A full list of MCC kit contents can be found at mcc.org/kits.
Bethel College Announcements (Sun., Dec. 10) – 38th annual Lighting of the Green, 8 p.m. on the Bethel College campus
Last week to view the annual Senior Art Exhibit I in the Regier Gallery and the Drama Lab, both in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College, featuring the work of Rachel Geyer (lab) and Edel Miller (gallery). Exhibit closes Thurs., Dec. 14. Gallery hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays. To see “Solace in the Story,” e-mail rachelegeyer@bethelks.edu for an appointment.
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 current special exhibit is “Climate and Energy Central,” along with the permanent exhibits “Of Land and People,” “Mirror of the Martyrs” and “Mennonite Immigrant Furniture.” The museum store is also open during those hours, with books, games, art and other gift items for sale (see kauffmanmuseum.org/museum-store/).
Mennonite Action’s 2nd Mass Meeting – Tuesday, December 12th at 7pm
At Mennonite Action’s last virtual meeting, more than 850 Mennonites from Canada, the US, and across the world joined together to grieve the ongoing violence in Palestine, to call for a ceasefire and an end to the occupation of Palestine, and to prepare to take nonviolent action together.
On December 12th, Mennonite Action will share updates about the work that has taken place since the last meeting. Participants will practice singing together in preparation for public actions on December 19th and hear from speakers who will remind us that our faith as Mennonites and Christians compels us to act.
MennoPIN and WDC Israel-Palestine Taskgroup both encourage your participation. Mennonite Action will continue to host events into the future, and BCMC will not be giving notice for all of them. If you want to sign up for the call on December 12 and stay connected with Mennonite Action, please sign up here: mennoniteaction.org/call
Hesston College Announcements
Melva Kauffman Lecture Series: Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery
This year the Melva Kauffman Lecture Series is pleased to host 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.
Take a Bible Class at Hesston College
Interested in auditing a Bible course beginning in January? This spring semester Hesston College has opportunities to audit Biblical Literature, Jesus and the Gospels, and Peacemaking and Justice courses. Acceptance is based upon availability of open seating. If you are interested in enrolling in or auditing a Bible course, please contact amber.hett@hesston.edu before Jan. 9 to register. Spring courses are in session Jan. 10 to May 9. Be sure and ask about discounted rates for senior citizens.
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcement.
Camp Mennoscah Announcements Interviews for the 2024 Summer Staff start over the Christmas/semester break! This allows more in-person interviews, which often are a benefit to the applicant. Complete your application for Summer Staff now, especially those who are usually out-of-town, to give Camp Mennoscah staff the best chance to talk with you while you’re in the Newton-ish area. 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. 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.
Other events and happenings:
Find your work gloves and boots! The Camp Mennoscah board will be contacting volunteers to work on the Retreat Center HVAC project, likely to start early in 2024. Having volunteers help on a daily basis will save a substantial amount in the overall cost. The project includes not only the HVAC system, but also code deficiencies in electrical and plumbing, for example. It’s going to be exciting!
A huge thank you to the Camp Mennoscah board, staff and family members for helping remove decorations on the walls of the Retreat Center. The walls look bare, but the atmosphere is one of anticipation for the renovation of parts of the building. There will be more work days ahead for everyone to join in. Keep your eyes open!
For Mennonite Central Committee “In Touch” press here For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
Tis the season for joy, hope, and peace. As we all find the hope found in the warmth of a friendly smile or gestures of kindness and love from family, friends, and strangers, we at the Newton Et Cetera Shop are asking you and your congregation to Engage the Season by continuing the hope found in this joyous time throughout the year.
By Engaging the Season, we are encouraging your congregation to become active in volunteerism at the Newton Et Cetera Shop throughout the upcoming year. In doing this, you will share in the joy of a gentle laugh over a cup of coffee, the hope found in a new friendship, and peace in the embrace of a loving community of volunteers and staff.
Volunteerism at the Newton Et Cetera Shop can take on many forms, whether it is clerking and engaging with the customers, to processing incoming donations and experiencing the positive community of volunteers, the choice is yours on how, when, and where you serve.
Even though we are a supporting organization of the Mennonite Central Committee, you do not need to be a part of the Mennonite church to serve, all denominations and faiths are accepted. Not only do we support the global efforts of MCC, we also support numerous non-profits throughout the area with donated goods and local grants to support the projects vital to our community. All that is required for service, is a heart that cares for our world, our community, and others.
Take a moment to explore how you can Engage the Season and carry the hope throughout the year by putting your time and talent to work for the good of others at the Newton Et Cetera Shop! Make a difference in our world, our community, and your and others lives!
Sign up to Engage the Season today! Volunteer applications can be picked up at the shop (619 N. Main, Newton) or by following the link below. Newton Et Cetera Shop Volunteer Application
Mennonite Church USA Announcements
The Mennonite Church USA Executive Board strengthened key relationships and discussed creative strategies for convention and revitalization at the first Executive Board meeting of the biennium Oct. 18-20, 2023, in Cleveland, Ohio. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/eb-strengthens
Menno Snapshots
Karla Stoltzfus Detweiler, climate justice coordinator for Mennonite Church USA, reflects on how to respond to climate doom with resistance and resilience, after attending Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary’s Rooted and Grounded conference. Read her reflection here: mennoniteusa.org/path-through-climate-doom
Beryl Jantzi, Everence director of stewardship education, explores what “mammon” might mean in the New Testament and why Jesus states that a person cannot serve both God and mammon. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/god-and-mammon
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Alfonsina and José Oyanguren, who have walked alongside Toba-Qom churches and communities in the Argentine Chaco since 2004. Pray for them as they provide continuity in long-term relationships and encourage the preservation of Indigenous languages and cultures.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC’s Ministerial Leadership Commission as they meet this week, and as they provide support and resources for credentialed ministers in our conference.
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH ANNOUNCEMENTS AND WORSHIP SERVICE FOR DECEMBER 3, 2023
To livestream the worship service: On Sunday morning, around 9:20, go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen, which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box 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/nDLhIx3OMHc?feature=share
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH December 3, 2023 First Sunday of Advent: Hope
Prelude—Cynthia Neufeld Smith (As the prelude music plays, you are encouraged to keep conversation to a minimum)
*Advent Candle Hymn—Hope Is a Candle— VT 211— Congregation sing verse 1 only; Susie Swartley, flute
Advent Candle Lighting—Judy Harder
*Advent Litany—Hope VT 916
Welcome—(Land Acknowledgement) and Prayer—Adam Robb
*Hymn—Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus—VT 218
Children’s Conversation—Christmas Tree Ornaments—Jill Robb
Anthem—Chancel Choir
Scripture Reading—1 Corinthians 1:3-9—Judy Harder
Sermon—The Gift of Hope—Nathan Koontz
*Hymn—Oh How Shall I Receive Thee—VT 215
Communion—Come to the Table of Grace—VT 461
Prayers of God’s People
*Hymn—Hark! the Glad Sound!—VT 217
Benediction
Postlude—Cynthia Neufeld Smith
* You are invited to stand VT—Voices Together Keyboard—Will Wiebe-Friesen Audio visual—Ken Lamp
This Week at BCMC: December 3—10, 2023 Sun., Dec. 3, 2023—First Sunday of Advent 9:30 a.m. Worship 10:45 a.m. Faith Formation Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/nDLhIx3OMHc?feature=share
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School 10:45 a.m. Faith Formation—Intergenerational class (fellowship hall); High School (Room 24) Adult Classes: Agape (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) Mon., Dec. 4, 2023 6:30 p.m. Gifts Discernment Committee meeting in the chapel 7:30-9 p.m. “Messiah” Sing Through Rehearsal in the sanctuary Wed., Dec. 6, 2023 11 a.m. Singalong to Christmas portions of Handel’s Messiah with chamber orchestra and soloists, in the sanctuary. Scores will be provided. 6 p.m. Anointing Service for Elizabeth Raid in the sanctuary 7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal in the sanctuary Thurs., Dec. 7, 2023 6:30 p.m. Chancel Bell rehearsal in Room B7 7 p.m. Church Board meeting in Room 14 7:30 p.m. Hospitality Commission meeting in fellowship hall Sun., Dec. 10, 2023—Second Sunday of Advent 9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz; music by Chancel Bells; Brief congregational meeting after worship 10:45 a.m. Faith Formation
Preparing for Worship As we gather for worship each Sunday in the sanctuary, the Worship Commission invites and encourages us to become quiet as the prelude centers us for worship. Conversation is welcome and encouraged in the Gathering Place outside of the sanctuary during the prelude. We invite all who are present in the sanctuary to find their seats and quietly participate in preparing for worship.
Birthday calendars – with photos of BCMC by Weldon Schloneger – are available in the back of the sanctuary for a suggested donation of $10. Checks may be written to BCMC with Women’s Fellowship written in the memo line. These birthday calendars are perfect stocking stuffers and work well for keeping track of birthdays of family and friends.
The Deacons Commission is working on a “Thinking of You” campaign for people who are isolated due to health concerns. For the next few Sundays, we will have a table at the back of the sanctuary with pages for your comments to members of our church whom we haven’t been able to see for a while. Please stop by and write a short greeting or sign your name to let them know we are thinking about them. For those of you who are unable to attend worship but can stop by the church during the week, these letters will be in the library during the week for anyone to write a note before we send them out. Thank you! — Deacon Commission
Caring Fund Contribution Opportunity Sunday December 3. The Caring Fund is an above budget benevolent fund administered by the Deacon Commission for the purpose of assisting our congregation’s members and community persons in need. The fund is generated by above budget offerings made payable to Bethel College Mennonite Church and designated “caring fund.” Everence also provides some matching funds each year. Besides the financial help that can and has been provided to our own members, in the past year contributions from the Caring Fund have been made to our local Salvation Army, New Hope Shelter, Safe Hope, Harvest of Love, the Community Playschool, Peace Connections Circle of Hope, Newton Community Foundation Slate Creek Elementary inclusive playground, USD 373 student meals for low income, and several individuals to help with housing rent and utilities. Thank you for your continued support and contributions during this holiday season. – BCMC Deacon Commission
Anointing Service for Elizabeth Raid You are welcome to join in an anointing service for Elizabeth Raid and her husband, Gary Franz, in the Bethel College Mennonite Church sanctuary on Wednesday, December 6 at 6 p.m. Elizabeth has been living with pancreatic cancer for a number of years and seeks God’s healing through word, touch, prayer, and the presence of loved ones. As God’s beloved community, may we find support and healing together. If there are others that are connected to Elizabeth and Gary who may not receive this announcement, please pass the invitation on to them. Everyone is welcome.
The church board is calling a brief special congregational meeting following worship in the sanctuary December 10, 2023 to act on the following board recommendation: Does BCMC approve the initiation of a pledge drive for the purpose of soliciting funds and support for the solar project? The details of a pledge drive will be worked out if an initial vote indicates significant support. The purpose of this vote is to determine the level of support from the congregation for a roof-top solar installation on our church. A review of the solar project as presented at the September congregational meeting and in two subsequent Sunday School hour meetings was distributed to mailboxes the week of November 27.
Welcoming Statement Draft The Inclusion Task Group along with the Church Board has been working on an updated welcoming statement for BCMC that includes more open and affirming language. If you have questions or comments regarding the updated welcoming statement, please contact Nathan Koontz by December 8. We hope to vote on an updated statement at our congregational meeting on January 28, 2024. Below is the updated version.
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 without regard to race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, economic status, marital status, and age, any and all who enter into fellowship with us. — Nathan Koontz (he, him) Pastor for Community and Worship Bethel College Mennonite Church
Creation Care: While you are active in your Christmas shopping please remember to save plastic bags for recycling. We have collected 345 pounds with a goal of 1,000 pounds. — Vern Goering
BCMC Offering for November 26, 2023: General Fund $3,150; Plant Fund $50; Sr Hi Youth $100; Gen Fund 2024 $1,300; Caring Fund $300; Flower Fund $110; Women’s Fellowship $286.
Roger’s Whereabouts Roger, and his wife Cynthia, will be traveling to Newton on Friday night (12/1). Cynthia will play an Advent organ prelude for worship (12/3) beginning at 9:15. Roger will be staying in Newton until Thursday evening. 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).
Save the date, January 28, 2024 for Congregational Meeting and Soup Luncheon prior to the congregational meeting and the next fun-filled congregation and youth activity!
You are invited to the Annual Christmas Brass Choir Concert at Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church, Sunday, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m., 1304 K-15 Hwy, Goessel for some Good Old Fashioned Christmas Festive Music and Cheer!
Mennonite Central Committee Material Resources Center in North Newton is critically low on inventory: An MCC kit cannot be distributed until each item for the kit is assembled, but some supplies in the Material Resources Center are so low that kits cannot be processed for shipping. You can help by filling the following needs: new infant onesies and sleepers (6-12 month sizes); new bath towels (dark colored, light to medium weight); new hand towels (dark colored). Locally, MCC distributes prisoner care and returning citizen care kits, for those kits we currently need: men’s shirts (sizes XL, 2XL, 3XL — any color) and men’s underwear (sizes 2XL, 3XL — any color). Buy online and ship it to MCC or bring items to MCC in North Newton (121 E. 30th St, North Newton). Questions: contact brociamueller@mcc.org or 316.283.2720. A full list of MCC kit contents can be found at mcc.org/kits.
Bethel College Announcements · Weds., Dec. 6 – Singalong to Christmas portions of Handel’s Messiah, 11 a.m., with chamber orchestra and soloists, Bethel College Mennonite Church. Scores provided. · Thurs., Dec. 7 – Visit Senior Art Exhibit 1, 5:30-7:30 p.m. in the Regier Art Gallery and the Drama Lab in the Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Artists will be present: “Crowded Table,” pottery by Edel Miller (gallery), and “Solace in the Story,” book art and theater art by Rachel Geyer (lab). Hours of Regier Gallery and Drama Lab are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m. · Thurs., Dec. 7 – Gala Jazz, directed by Joel Boettger, 7:30 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center · Sun., Dec. 10 – 38th annual Lighting of the Green , 8 p.m. on the Bethel College campus
Announcements from Hesston College
December 1 to 3 – Prairie Lights at Dyck Arboretum
Experience the quiet beauty of Kansas in winter: dormant native grasses shifting in the wind, lights reflecting in the pond and leafless trees lit from below like living sculptures. Observing tens of thousands of twinkle lights adorning the arboretum path and illuminating our grounds is a great way to kick off the holiday season and find renewed appreciation for the prairie landscape around us. Learn more at dyckarboretum.org/events.
December 2 – “A Christmas Carol” Performance
Hesston College Performing Arts will ring in the holiday season with a performance of “A Christmas Carol” on Saturday, December 2. The performance will be held in the Hesston Mennonite Church at 7 p.m. Admission is free and refreshments will be served after the performance with a special photo opportunity with Scrooge and Tiny Tim. You can watch the livestream of the production at hesston.edu/livestream.
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
Mennonite Church USA Announcements Mennonite Church USA issued a statement on the Israel-Hamas War on Nov. 15. The statement laments the loss of life and stands on our shared Anabaptist faith values in a call for a ceasefire. Read it here: mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/ceasefire/
The Center for Community Justice in Elkhart, Indiana, honored Lorraine Stutzman Amstutz, Mennonite Church USA’s denominational minister for Peace & Justice, for her work in restorative justice at an event celebrating the 45th anniversary of its Victim-Offender Reconciliation Program (VORP). Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/ccj-honors
Menno Snapshots
This fall, several Mennonite Church USA congregations from Northwest Ohio worked with RAWtools and Mennonite Central Committee to host a community event about gun safety. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/gun-safety-ohio
Amy Yoder McGloughlin, pastor at Frazer Mennonite Church, shares how gun violence and the death of a young neighbor in a drive-by shooting created lasting trauma for her and her family. Read about how leaning into that pain helps her cope: mennoniteusa.org/lean-in
Harvey County Advent Calendar A team of folks in Harvey County recently designed an Advent calendar themed around our community, and we are sharing it with others for free.
You can read about the effort in the Harvey County Now (“County Advent calendar hopes to spread more than information.”) Community Creative Services in Newton headed up the design. The daily activities include reflective exercises to foster gratitude, encouragement to practice generosity, and opportunities to connect to others. It’s designed to be inclusive, so almost every activity is free, and each day includes at least one free activity. Examples include attending the Lighting of the Green at Bethel College, participating in the Audubon Society’s Christmas Bird Count, or watching the earliest sunset of the year. Other events invite reflection on the themes of hope, joy, love and peace; listening to Christmas hymns or poems; and making small donations to local charities. Rebecca Barrett-Fox, Newton, did the writing and area churches and organizations sponsored the publication.
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Pray for the participants in Mennonite Mission Network’s Tucson, Arizona, Mennonite Voluntary Service unit — Nely Cotuc, Hannah Nuest, Ally Weaver, Magdalena Wenger and Deborah Yoder — as they help extend the ministries of their host congregation, Shalom Mennonite Fellowship, through welcoming immigrants, promoting literacy and working to protect the environment.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for the WDC Resource Library’s creative resources and ideas for Advent and Christmas, and pray for congregational leaders who plan worship and special activities during this season.
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR NOVEMBER 26, 2023
To livestream the worship service: On Sunday morning, around 9:20, go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen, which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box 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/YKjS_6uoRqo?feature=share
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH November 26, 2023 Thanksgiving Sunday
Prelude—Cello Suite No. 4 (J.S. Bach) and Bourrée (Transcribed by Alamiro Giampieri) and Justin Mathis, clarinet
Christ Candle Lighting
Welcome and Prayer—Margaret Toews
*Hymn—Sing to the Lord of Harvest—VT 122
Children’s Conversation—Jim Robb
Special Music—Romance from Five Bagatelles for Clarinet and Piano (by Gerald Finzi) Justin Mathis, clarinet; Karen Schlabaugh, piano
Scripture Reading – Psalm 103:1-8,13-18; Philippians 1:1-7, 4:4-7 Richard Friesen and Dorothy Nickel Friesen
Sermon—Radical Gratitude—Roger Neufeld Smith
*Hymn—Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah—VT 606
Prayers of God’s People
*Hymn—God, Whose Giving—VT 745 People with November birthdays come forward for a blessing, please bring a hymnal
Benediction
Postlude—Postlude on Beata nobis gaudia (Robert Powell)—Karen Schlabaugh
*You are invited to stand VT—Voices Together Audio visual— John Thiesen Keyboard—Karen Schlabaugh
The Kobzar, a folk minstrel who was both an entertainer and sage, was an institution in the life of the Ukrainian people. This Dancing Kobzar sculpture, part of the John Klassen art exhibit now on display in the Gathering Place, is on loan from Cynthia Neufeld Smith.
We welcome clarinetist Justin Mathis to worship with us Sunday, November 26. Instructor of clarinet at Colorado Christian University and principal clarinetist for Denver Pops Orchestra, Justin is married to Lyn and Naomi Krause’s daughter, Cheri.
Roger’s Whereabouts : Roger will be driving back to Topeka this afternoon. He will be back in Newton next Sunday for worship (his wife Cynthia will be playing the organ prelude!). He will be in Newton until Thursday night, December 7. 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).
Pastor Nathan Koontz is on vacation from Nov. 22-26. Thank you to Susie Swartley and Kathy Stucky for the Thanksgiving display on the steps of the Chancel Area.
BCMC Offering for November 19, 2023: General Fund $6,685.33; Community Play School $250; Wed. Night Supper $282.50; Plant Fund $608.33; Gen Fund 2024 $10,025; Caring Fund $138.29; Flower Fund $150; Kitchen Fund $23.
This Week at BCMC: November 26—December 3, 2023 Sun., November 26, 2023—Thanksgiving Sunday 9:30 a.m. Worship 10:45 a.m. Faith Formation Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/YKjS_6uoRqo?feature=share
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School 10:45 a.m. Faith Formation—Intergenerational class (Fellowship Hall); High School (Room 24) Adult Classes: Agape (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) Mon., November 27, 2023 10 a.m. Library Committee meeting in Room 14 Wed., November 29, 2023 6:30 p.m. Chancel Bell rehearsal in Room B7 7 p.m. Abuse Prevention and Response Committee meeting in Room 14 7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal in the sanctuary Thurs., November 30, 2023 7 p.m. Deacon Commission meeting in Room 14 Sun., Dec. 3, 2023—First Sunday of Advent 9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz; music by Chancel Choir; communion will be served; 10:45 a.m. Faith Formation
The bcmcXpress is lagging a bit. As of Monday Nov. 20, we had 84 intents for a total dollar amount pledged of about $258,000. That’s a lot of money, but it is less than half of the proposed budget. The challenge is to get that total up. We know that many people have not pledged. Please consider your obligation and make a pledge. If you have already pledged consider raising the amount. BCMC has met these challenges in the past and we will again, but it means we all need to pull together. Finance Committee
If you plan to give via the electronic transfer system in 2024, please make a request via email to BCMC Financial Manager Michael Claassen – treasurer@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org This is separate from the online giving option found on the website.
For the 2024 Budget Information for Bethel College Mennonite Church (the budget narrative) click the button. If you would like a paper copy of the 2024 Budget Narrative, you can pick one up from the ledge in the Gathering Place.
A Celebration of Life for Gladys Niles and Gail Niles Stucky is scheduled for 4 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 26, at Shalom Mennonite Church, Newton. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor Gladys’ and Gail’s memories are encourage to make a gift to support Bethel College, Bethel College Mennonite Church, or Shalom Mennonite Church.
Kauffman Museum will celebrate Museum Store Sunday, November 26. Museum members will receive 20% off their entire Store purchase and non-members will receive 10% off. More than 2,100 Museum Stores representing all 50 states, 25 countries and 5 continents take part in this event. For more information about and to find participating stores, go to museumstoresunday.org/museum-store-sunday Kauffman Museum’s normal business hours are Sunday 1:30-4:30 p.m.
Antiracism Analysis Training You are invited to join a 2 1/2 day training covering topics such as Racial and cultural identity; White privilege; Institutions and institutional racism; Racism as a systemic reality, and more. Training is January 12-14, 2024 at the Newton REC Center. There is a poster on the BCMC bulletin board. For the poster you can also click here.
The cost of the training is $300 prior to December 1 and $350 afterwards. If you are interested in receiving scholarship money to help reimburse registration costs, please contact the church office at office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org. The Witness Commission strongly encourages your participation and is happy to answer any questions you may have. Please contact the church office to be in contact with someone from the Witness Commission.
The church board is calling a brief special congregational meeting following worship in the sanctuary December 10, 2023 to act on the following board recommendation: Does BCMC approve the initiation of a pledge drive for the purpose of soliciting funds and support for the solar project? The details of a pledge drive will be worked out if an initial vote indicates significant support. The purpose of this vote is to determine the level of support from the congregation for a roof-top solar installation on our church. A review of the solar project as presented at the September congregational meeting and in two subsequent SS hour meetings will be distributed to mailboxes the week of November 27.
For a review of information on the solar panels press here
For your calendars
December 24, 2023 — there will be no Sunday School — Worship will start at 10 a.m.
December 31, 2023 — there will be no Sunday School — Worship will start at 10 a.m.
Save the date, January 28, 2024 for Congregational Meeting and Soup Luncheon prior to the congregational meeting and the next fun-filled congregation and youth activity!
Bethel College Announcements · Fri., Dec. 1 – Senior Art Exhibit I opens in the Regier Art Gallery and the Drama Lab, both in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College, featuring the work of Rachel Geyer (lab) and Edel Miller (gallery). Hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m. · Friday, Dec. 1 — Student-directed one-act plays, 7:30 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Please note: May contain adult language and themes and may not be suitable for children. · Sat., Dec. 2 – Kauffman Museum bird walk, 8 a.m. start time in the museum parking lot at the corner of Main and 27th streets (2801 N. Main St., North Newton 67117). Experienced birders lead a walk of 1-1.5 hours in Chisholm Park and on Sand Creek Trail (terrain is mostly wood-chip path and sometimes uneven/sloping). · Sat., Dec. 2 – Five Places of Christmas, featuring Kauffman Museum and the Bethel College Women’s Association at Goerz House, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Other locations are Carriage Factory Gallery, Harvey County Historical Museum and Warkentin House, all in Newton. · All bakers and craft makers are invited to make items for 5 Places of Christmas Sat., December 2, at Goerz House, Bethel College. Bethel College Women’s Association will again be selling baked goods, candy, craft items and poinsettias. Your home-baked cookies, zwiebach, cinnamon rolls, peppernuts and poppyseed rolls are always great sellers. This year we are especially asking for homemade candies such as peanut clusters, peanut butter balls, peanut brittle or fudge. Please bring your items to Goerz House on Friday, December 1, from 1-4 p.m. or on Saturday from 9-10 a.m. · Weds., Dec. 6 – Singalong to Christmas portions of Handel’s Messiah, 11 a.m., with chamber orchestra and soloists, At Bethel College Mennonite Church. Scores will be provided. · Thurs., Dec. 7 – Gala Jazz, directed by Joel Boettger, 7:30 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center · Sun., Dec. 10 – 37th annual Lighting of the Green , 8 p.m. on the Bethel College campus
Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Announcements · An Evening of Service at MCC on Giving Tuesday, Nov. 28 from 6:30-8 p.m. at MCC in North Newton. Bring new dark colored hand towels to pack hygiene kits. MCC partner Offender Victim Ministries will be here with supplies to write holiday greetings to prisoners, we’ll have comforters to tie and delicious snacks to enjoy. A great way to give on Giving Tuesday. · SAVE THE DATE – The MCC Comforter Blitz will be March 4-6 in Yoder. · Mennonite Central Committee responding to the Palestine and Israel conflict – As conflict has escalated in the region, MCC laments the violence and mourns all lives lost in Palestine and Israel. MCC remains committed to a just peace for all, and we invite you to join us in praying for an end to the violence. MCC is planning an emergency response to the current crisis with existing partners. Our response will focus on the humanitarian needs in Gaza, given the vulnerability of the population and lack of resources available to families. MCC’s work will build on previous responses to the ongoing conflict, including the distribution of food and bedding. We are also planning to offer trauma healing support and housing reconstruction. Donate online at mcc.org/Palestine-Israel or call 1-888-563-4676. · MCC Material Resources Center in North Newton critically low on inventory: An MCC kit cannot be distributed until each item for the kit is assembled, but some supplies in the Material Resources Center are so low that kits cannot be processed for shipping. You can help by filling the following needs: new infant onesies and sleepers (6-12 month sizes); new bath towels (dark colored, light to medium weight); new hand towels (dark colored). Locally, MCC distributes prisoner care and returning citizen care kits, for those kits we currently need: men’s shirts (sizes XL, 2XL, 3XL — any color) and men’s underwear (sizes 2XL, 3XL — any color). Buy online and ship it to MCC or bring items to MCC in North Newton (121 E. 30th St, North Newton). Questions are always welcome, please contact brociamueller@mcc.orgor 316.283.2720. A full list of MCC kit contents can be found at mcc.org/kits.
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
Peace Connections is 40 years old! You are invited to an Open House Celebrating Peace Connections 40 years on November 30, 6 to 8 p.m. at 209 S. Pine Street, Newton. Share S’mores and Hot Chocolate while hearing stories of Peace Connections’ past impact, current programs, and their future story.
M&M Project Update: End of Year GIving!
Please consider giving to Camp Mennoscah and/or the M&M Project on Giving Tuesday – this year on November 28 – or as part of your end-of-the-year giving. It’s not that we aren’t thankful for all you’ve done – but there is a lot to be done at Camp, and we already know that God has touched your hearts and called many to be part of Camp’s mission. Let’s not just finish the M&M Project strong – let’s finish the year strong!
Thank you for being a part of Camp Mennoscah! 75 years – There is still so much ahead!
Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp Announcements· Scrapbook Retreat, Jan. 26-28 is your opportunity to create paper or digital photo books and share ideas and good conversation with other scrapbook participants. Lisa Longacher will return as our program resource for the retreat and help facilitate a variety of activities. Please come for retreat and community in God’s creation here at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp. Register online (www.rmmc.org) and save a space to join in. · Join us for Men’s Retreat March 1-3, 2024 to spend time with God and fellow men in the beauty of creation with worship times, foosball, ping pong, chess, human curling, snowshoeing, musical jam sessions, great fellowship and more! The Friday before Men’s Retreat, participants have a tradition of tackling necessary projects at camp. This day of volunteering helps RMMC better serve campers and guests. Register @ rmmc.org. · Mark your calendars now for Women’s Retreat at RMMC, March 8-10, 2024. Come to the mountains for a weekend away. Retreat, hike, explore, rest, and fellowship. This weekend is for women ages 18 and older to come together. Theme to be announced! Visit rmmc.org to register.
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here For Mennonite World Conference “Info” press here For Mennonite Mission Network “News from around the world” press here
Mennonite Church USA Announcements Menno Snapshots
As part of Mennonite Church USA’s latest Learn, Pray, Join initiative, End Gun Violence, Jonny Rashid, pastor for West Philadelphia Mennonite Fellowship, a member church of Allegheny Mennonite Conference, shared a prayer of lament about gun violence. Read it here: mennoniteusa.org/prayer-to-end-gun-violence
Anabaptist musicians from a variety of countries met this spring in Canada for a songwriting retreat sponsored by Anabaptist Worship Network. George Makinto, director of worship at Los Angeles (California) Faith Chapel, recounts how he experienced hope through the gathering of such a diverse group of people worshipping God together. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/hope-ringing-out
Michael George, a Palestinian-American and facilitator of MennoPIN’s “Twinning with Gaza” Initiative, a Mennonite Church USA affinity group, laments the recent attacks from Hamas and ongoing war in Israel/Palestine. Read it here: mennoniteusa.org/lament-for-gaza
Rachel Ringenberg Miller, denominational minister for ministerial leadership for Mennonite Church USA, reminds us that Anabaptist congregational leadership requires collaboration, from the leaders and from the congregation. The process to make changes takes time, but the inclusive nature of the process is worth it. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/collaboration-anabaptist-leadershipMennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Jonah and Memee Yang began serving with Mennonite Mission Network in September. Pray for Jonah as he teaches Hmong and Thai students in Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary’s Journey Program and for Memee as she offers Sister Care seminars. The Yangs live in Minnesota and will travel to Thailand twice each year. Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for chaplains and other ministers in WDC who offer pastoral care for members of our communities experiencing pain, loneliness, loss or grief, particularly during this holiday season.
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Jonah and Memee Yang began serving with Mennonite Mission Network in September. Pray for Jonah as he teaches Hmong and Thai students in Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary’s Journey Program and for Memee as she offers Sister Care seminars. The Yangs live in Minnesota and will travel to Thailand twice each year.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for chaplains and other ministers in WDC who offer pastoral care for members of our communities experiencing pain, loneliness, loss or grief, particularly during this holiday season.
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH November 19, 2023 Twenty Fifth Sunday After Pentecost
Prelude—Little Prelude and Fugue in C (JS Bach); Now Thank We All Our God (Bach/Fox)— Will Wiebe-Friesen
Christ Candle Lighting
Welcome and Prayer—Elizabeth Schmidt
*Hymn—Guide My Feet—VT 816
Children’s Conversation—Jeanette Leary
Anthem—A Song of Thanksgiving (John Ferguson)—Chancel Choir; Riley King, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist
Scripture Reading—Psalm 105:4-13; Luke 3:4-9; Deut. 26:1-5—Emma Gering
Sermon—Fugitives in the Family Tree—Lauren Friesen
*Hymn—Lift Every Voice and Sing—VT 611
Prayers of God’s People
*Hymn—Praise to the Living God—VT 204
Benediction
Postlude—Precious Lord Take My Hand (arr. Schrader)—Will Wiebe-Friesen
* You are invited to stand VT—Voices Together Keyboard- Will Wiebe-Friesen Audio visual— Ben Lichti
Welcome to Lauren Friesen We welcome Lauren to deliver the sermon at BCMC today. Lauren and his partner Janet joined BCMC last May. Previously they had been active at Chicago Community Mennonite Church where Lauren often preached. Prior to their time in Chicago, Lauren was a professor at the University of Michigan. We are glad that he and Janet have wandered their way into this community!
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2023
To livestream the worship service: On Sunday morning, around 9:20, go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen, which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box 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/YBJ3Ob2qAAU?feature=share
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH November 19, 2023 Twenty Fifth Sunday After Pentecost
Prelude—Little Prelude and Fugue in C (JS Bach); Now Thank We All Our God (Bach/Fox)— Will Wiebe-Friesen
Christ Candle Lighting
Welcome and Prayer—Elizabeth Schmidt
*Hymn—Guide My Feet—VT 816
Children’s Conversation—Jeanette Leary
Anthem—A Song of Thanksgiving (John Ferguson)—Chancel Choir; Riley King, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist
Scripture Reading—Psalm 105:4-13; Luke 3:4-9; Deut. 26:1-5—Emma Gering
Sermon—Fugitives in the Family Tree—Lauren Friesen
*Hymn—Lift Every Voice and Sing—VT 611
Prayers of God’s People
*Hymn—Praise to the Living God—VT 204
Benediction
Postlude—Precious Lord Take My Hand (arr. Schrader)—Will Wiebe-Friesen
* You are invited to stand VT—Voices Together Keyboard- Will Wiebe-Friesen Audio visual— Ben Lichti
Welcome to Lauren Friesen We welcome Lauren to deliver the sermon at BCMC today. Lauren and his partner Janet joined BCMC last May. Previously they had been active at Chicago Community Mennonite Church where Lauren often preached. Prior to their time in Chicago, Lauren was a professor at the University of Michigan. We are glad that he and Janet have wandered their way into this community!
The church board is calling a special brief congregational meeting following worship in the sanctuary Sunday, Nov. 19, to act on the following board recommendation: “That Bethel College Mennonite Church join the Repair Network, a binational network of congregations engaged in efforts to repair damages done to indigenous groups over the last centuries. Joining the network entails, among other things, a commitment of funds within the witness commission budget to support the ongoing efforts of the organization. This commitment would involve a commitment of $3,000 in the 2024 church budget, with the expectation that in 2025 the amount would be $4,000 and 2026 and years following $5,000, approximately 1% of the BCMC budget. It is understood that actions on budget beyond 2024 would follow normal budget development and action processes.”
This Week at BCMC: November 19—26, 2023 Sun., November 19, 2023 9:30 a.m. Worship; 10:45 a.m. Faith Formation Brief Congregational Meeting will follow worship in the sanctuary Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/YBJ3Ob2qAAU?feature=share
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School 10:45 a.m. 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) Tues., November 21, 2023 3 p.m. Worship Commission meeting by Zoom 7 p.m. Women’s Fellowship meeting in Fellowship Hall Wed., November 22, 2023—No Chancel Choir rehearsal tonight Thurs., November 23, 2023—Thanksgiving Day—Church office closed; building locked for the holiday Fri., November 24, 2023—Church office will be closed today Sun., November 26, 2023—Thanksgiving Sunday 9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Roger Neufeld Smith; music by Justin Mathis, clarinet; November birthday recognition
BCMC Women’s Fellowship meets Tuesday, November 21, in Fellowship Hall at 7:00 p.m. We will discuss mental health and teen motherhood. Use the south-east door.
BCMC Offering for November 12, 2023: General Fund $11,542; MCC $25; Wed. supper $428; Library Reserve Fund $10; Flower Fund $20; Bethel College Scholarship Fund $500; Kitchen Fund $18.25.
The BCMC Board continues to discuss the solar project and hopes to have more details about next steps sometime in December. Thank you for your patience! Margaret Toews and Jon Zerger for the board
Save the date, January 28, 2024 for Congregational Meeting and Soup Luncheon prior to the congregational meeting and the next fun-filled congregation and youth activity!
We offer sympathy to the family of Gladys Niles and Gail Stucky. Gladys died November 5 at Kidron Bethel Village. Gladys’ daughter, Gail, died Nov. 15, at Paramount Community Living in Newton. A celebration of life is scheduled for both Gladys and Gail at 4 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 26, at Shalom Mennonite Church, Newton. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor Gail’s and Gladys’ memories are encouraged to make a gift to support Bethel College, Bethel College Mennonite Church, or Shalom Mennonite Church. For Gladys’ obituary press here For Gail’s obituary presshere
Roger’s Whereabouts : Roger will be back in the BCMC office Monday morning (11/20) until Wednesday (11/22). He will return to Topeka for a Smith Thanksgiving celebration, then be back in Newton on Saturday (11/25) to preach on Sunday (11/26). 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).
Pastor Nathan Koontz will be on vacation from Nov. 22-26.
bcmcXpress: If you have not done so already, please fill out your intent for giving to BCMC for the 2024 budget. This is very helpful in setting the budget for the coming year. Your generous contributions for 2023 are greatly appreciated. The Finance Committee For the online form press here.
If you plan to give via the electronic transfer system in 2024, please make a request via email to BCMC Financial Manager Michael Claassen – treasurer@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org This is separate from the online giving option found on the website.
For the 2024 Budget Information for Bethel College Mennonite Church (the budget narrative) click the button. If you would like a paper copy of the 2024 Budget Narrative, you can pick one up from the ledge in the Gathering Place.
You are invited to share a poinsettia for the sanctuary for the Christmas season. BCMC will purchase the poinsettias, and have them delivered to the church. To contribute, email the following to the office or fill it out and put it in the offering plate: Donor’s: name: In memory of: Or in honor of.: Make a payment of $10.00 (made out to BCMC and designated “Flower Fund”) place in the offering plate or bring to church office by Nov. 21. There will be forms at a table in the back of the sanctuary this Sunday if you wish to fill out a form in person.
Antiracism Analysis Training You are invited to join a 2 1/2 day training covering topics such as Racial and cultural identity; White privilege; Institutions and institutional racism; Racism as a systemic reality, and more. Training is January 12-14, 2024 at the Newton REC Center. There is a poster on the BCMC bulletin board. For the poster you can also click here.
To register click here. Note that there is early bird registration by December 1, 2023.
Bethel College Announcements · (Sun., Nov. 19) – Joint junior recital by Emil Benavides and Dylan Yoder, voice, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel at Bethel College · Mon., Nov. 20 – Bethel College Wind Ensemble, directed by Chris Miertschin, 7 p.m., featuring the music of Satie, Smith, Bernstein and more; Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center or livestreamed at https://www.youtube.com/live/JTnHaK6jSkk?si=1FOZS2LEeGbC3ZAe · Sat., Dec. 2 – Five Places of Christmas, featuring Kauffman Museum and the Bethel College Women’s Association at Goerz House, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Other locations are Carriage Factory Gallery, Harvey County Historical Museum and Warkentin House, all in Newton. · All bakers and craft makers are invited to make items for 5 Places of Christmas Sat., December 2, at Goerz House, Bethel College. Bethel College Women’s Association will again be selling baked goods, candy, craft items and poinsettias. Your home-baked cookies, zwiebach, cinnamon rolls, peppernuts and poppyseed rolls are always great sellers. This year we are especially asking for homemade candies such as peanut clusters, peanut butter balls, peanut brittle or fudge. Please bring your items to Goerz House on Friday, December 1, from 1-4 p.m. or on Saturday from 9-10 a.m.
Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Announcements · An Evening of Service at MCC on Giving Tuesday, Nov. 28 from 6:30-8 p.m. at MCC in North Newton. Bring new dark colored hand towels to pack hygiene kits. MCC partner Offender Victim Ministries will be here with supplies to write holiday greetings to prisoners, we’ll have comforters to tie and delicious snacks to enjoy. A great way to give on Giving Tuesday. · SAVE THE DATE – The MCC Comforter Blitz will be March 4-6 in Yoder. · Mennonite Central Committee responding to the Palestine and Israel conflict – As conflict has escalated in the region, MCC laments the violence and mourns all lives lost in Palestine and Israel. MCC remains committed to a just peace for all, and we invite you to join us in praying for an end to the violence. MCC is planning an emergency response to the current crisis with existing partners. Our response will focus on the humanitarian needs in Gaza, given the vulnerability of the population and lack of resources available to families. MCC’s work will build on previous responses to the ongoing conflict, including the distribution of food and bedding. We are also planning to offer trauma healing support and housing reconstruction. Donate online at mcc.org/Palestine-Israel or call 1-888-563-4676.
MCC Material Resources Center in North Newton critically low on inventory: An MCC kit cannot be distributed until each item for the kit is assembled, but some supplies in the Material Resources Center are so low that kits cannot be processed for shipping. You can help by filling the following needs: new infant onesies and sleepers (6-12 month sizes); new bath towels (dark colored, light to medium weight); new hand towels (dark colored). Locally, MCC distributes prisoner care and returning citizen care kits, for those kits we currently need:men’s shirts (sizes XL, 2XL, 3XL — any color) and men’s underwear (sizes 2XL, 3XL — any color). Buy online and ship it to MCC or bring items to MCC in North Newton (121 E. 30th St, North Newton, KS 67117). Questions are always welcome, please contact brociamueller@mcc.org or 316.283.2720. A full list of MCC kit contents can be found at mcc.org/kits.
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
Camp Mennoscah Announcements
The application for 2024 Summer Staff at Camp Mennoscah is open! 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. Applications will be accepted until all positions are filled. The 2024 summer camp season begins June 2 with orientation for summer-long positions and ends August 4. We can’t wait to hear from you!
Other events and happenings:
Volunteers are needed immediately to work (M-F) alongside the facilities director on general maintenance tasks. Working on these regular maintenance tasks will allow more time for planning and preparation for the Retreat Center HVAC project. The project is running behind and we need to make up time! Call or text Jordan at 316-613-1848. Volunteer hours are available from 8am-5pm or a portion of that time. Please bring a water bottle and your lunch.
Thank you to everyone who stopped by the Camp Mennoscah booth during the Camp Days at Hesston, Tabor and Bethel! There was great conversation with students interested in being on summer staff for the 2024 Summer Youth Camps. What a great time to speak with you!
Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp Announcements
Men’s Retreat: Join us for Men’s Retreat March 1-3, 2024 to spend time with God and fellow men in the beauty of creation. The festivities for the weekend include worship times, foosball, ping pong, chess, human curling, snowshoeing, musical jam sessions, great fellowship and more! On the Friday prior to Men’s Retreat, participants have a tradition of tackling necessary projects at camp. This day of volunteering helps RMMC better serve campers and guests. Register @ rmmc.org.
Women! Mark your calendars now for Women’s Retreat at RMMC, March 8-10, 2024. Come to the mountains for a weekend away. Retreat, hike, explore, rest, fellowship, laugh, cry, and so much more. This weekend is geared towards women ages 18 and older to come together for laughter, fun, and great fellowship. Theme to be announced! Please visit rmmc.org to register.
Historian to present ‘Mennonites on the Silk Road’ at Newton Public Library Historian and pastor John Sharp will return to Newton Public Library for a follow-up talk focusing on the Mennonite experience in Central Asia, Tuesday, Nov. 21, at 7 p.m. Sharp’s presentation will begin with excerpts from Sofia Samatar’s highly-acclaimed “The White Mosque,” which was the focus of a community book discussion that Sharp led at the library earlier this fall. Shortly after leading that discussion, Sharp accompanied a group of travelers on an educational tour in Uzbekistan, revisiting the regions discussed in the book. “Uzbeks cherish their history but also plan for the future, as was abundantly clear on our September tour,” Sharp said. “Uzbekistan is promoting tourism with its new and upgraded hotels and restaurants. With photos and commentary, I will highlight the ways this is changing the sites related to the Mennonite story.” This is a hybrid program. Participants can attend in person, join online via Zoom webinars, or head to the Newton Public Library Facebook page at the time of the event for a livestream. Click here to mark yourself “Going” and share the event on Facebook.
For Mennonite Mission Network “Giving Tuesday” press here
For Mennonite Disaster Service “On the Level” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
Mennonite Church USA Announcements Menno Snapshots
During the Korean War, Sue Park-Hur’s Aunt Hwasil was separated from her mother and brothers. After 40 years, she was finally able to reunite with her family, a privilege that many other Korean families have not been able to enjoy. Park-Hur is Mennonite Church USA’s director of racial/ethnic engagement. Read her blog here: mennoniteusa.org/korean-family-reunion
After researching the experiences of women in ministry, Amy Zimbelman, conference minister of Mountain States Mennonite Conference, explains that the best gift many congregations can give to their pastor is support through a Pastor-Congregation Relations Committee (PCRC). Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/thank-your-pastor-pcrc
Sarah Werner, author of “Rooted Faith: Practices for Living Well on a Fragile Planet,” and communications coordinator for Central District Conference, a Mennonite Church USA conference, gives hope and tangible ideas for how to Christians can live a life that is faithful to their beliefs amid rapid climate change. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/living-faithfully-changing-planet
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Tomorrow, Barb Thuma will complete a seven-week Mennonite Mission Network assignment at La Casa Grande, a children’s home in Benin. Pray that the love she shared with the children, through teaching English and working with them on the agricultural program, will bear fruit in the lives of each person she learned to know.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for changing seasons, and pray that WDC congregations may discern God’s presence and guidance in the midst of the opportunities and challenges that they face.
Tis the season for joy, hope, and peace. As we all find the hope found in the warmth of a friendly smile or gestures of kindness and love from family, friends, and strangers, we at the Newton Et Cetera Shop are asking you and your congregation to Engage the Season by continuing the hope found in this joyous time throughout the year. 