Children’s Conversation—George Leary & BCMC Youth Group
Worship Music—Cum Sancto Spiritu (Antonio Vivaldi) Chancel Choir; Joel Garber, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist Chancel Choir
Scripture Reading— Joel 2:21-27; Matthew 6:25-33—Lee Suderman
*Hymn—Sometimes a Light Surprises— VT 618—Rebecca Schloneger, violin
Sermon—Thanksgiving, Poetry & the Sun—Nathan Koontz
*Hymn—Nothing Is Lost on the Breath of GodI—VT 653
Prayers of God’s People—Heather Zerger, Lily Schloneger
*Hymn—For the Fruit of All Creation—VT 124—(People with November birthdays come forward for a blessing, please bring a hymnal)
*Birthday Blessing & Benediction
Postlude—Now Thank We All Our God (J.S. Bach/Virgil Fox)—Will Wiebe-Friesen
* You are invited to stand VT—Voices Together Keyboard- Will Wiebe-Friesen Audio visual—Ken Lamp
Today’s choir anthem is the final movement from Vivaldi’s Gloria, a setting of the fourth century hymn text Gloria in excelsis Deo. This movement’s text, Cum Sancto Spiritu in gloria Dei Patris, amen, is translated: With the Holy Spirit in the glory of God the Father, amen. The postlude is derived from Bach’s cantata Nun danket alle Gott (Now Thank We All Our God, VT 114). This setting of the hymn, arranged by the American organist Virgil Fox (1912-1980), was made popular through Fox’s flamboyant organ, smoke, and light shows of the 1970’s. Perhaps not the most authentic Bach, it remains an enthusiastic presentation of this hymn of thanksgiving.
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR SUNDAY, November 24, 2024–Thanksgiving Sunday
Our faith in a God of love leads us, by the power of the Spirit, to follow Jesus in doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.
To livestream the worship service: On Sunday morning, around 9:20 a.m., 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/qptQnR9NMDc?feature=share
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH November 24, 2024 Thanksgiving
Christ Candle Lighting
Centering Music—Morning Has Broken [VT 495] (arr. R. Lau)—Will Wiebe-Friesen
Children’s Conversation—George Leary & BCMC Youth Group
Worship Music—Cum Sancto Spiritu (Antonio Vivaldi) Chancel Choir; Joel Garber, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist Chancel Choir
Scripture Reading— Joel 2:21-27; Matthew 6:25-33—Lee Suderman
*Hymn—Sometimes a Light Surprises— VT 618—Rebecca Schloneger, violin
Sermon—Thanksgiving, Poetry & the Sun—Nathan Koontz
*Hymn—Nothing Is Lost on the Breath of GodI—VT 653
Prayers of God’s People—Heather Zerger, Lily Schloneger
*Hymn—For the Fruit of All Creation—VT 124—(People with November birthdays come forward for a blessing, please bring a hymnal)
*Birthday Blessing & Benediction
Postlude—Now Thank We All Our God (J.S. Bach/Virgil Fox)—Will Wiebe-Friesen
* You are invited to stand VT—Voices Together Keyboard- Will Wiebe-Friesen Audio visual—Ken Lamp
Today’s choir anthem is the final movement from Vivaldi’s Gloria, a setting of the fourth century hymn text Gloria in excelsis Deo. This movement’s text, Cum Sancto Spiritu in gloria Dei Patris, amen, is translated: With the Holy Spirit in the glory of God the Father, amen. The postlude is derived from Bach’s cantata Nun danket alle Gott (Now Thank We All Our God, VT 114). This setting of the hymn, arranged by the American organist Virgil Fox (1912-1980), was made popular through Fox’s flamboyant organ, smoke, and light shows of the 1970’s. Perhaps not the most authentic Bach, it remains an enthusiastic presentation of this hymn of thanksgiving.
The Week at BCMC: November 24—December 1, 2024 Sunday, November 24, 2024 9:30 a.m. Worship: sermon by Nathan Koontz —10:30 a.m. Faith Formation Attendants in Nursery today: Barb Voran and Joanna Harader. YouTube Link for the worship service this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/qptQnR9NMDc?feature=share
Tuesday, November 26, 2024 4 p.m. Worship Commission meeting by Zoom Wednesday, November 27, 2024—No Chancel Choir Rehearsal Tonight Thursday, November 28, 2024—Happy Thanksgiving! No Chancel Bell Rehearsal Tonight—Church office closed and church will be locked Friday, November 29, 2024—Church office will be closed Sunday, December 1, 2024—First Sunday of Advent 9:15 a.m. Prelude by Open Road (Open Road is an a cappella men’s ensemble from Bethel College) 9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Joanna Harader 10:30 a.m. Faith Formation
The Repair Coalition has asked us to remember, as we come upon Thanksgiving time, how our families have benefitted from past and present colonization, access to originally Indigenous lands, and how we continue to benefit from colonization today. Check the poster, “How To Be An Ally to Indigenous Peoples,” which offers us some great ally practices beginning with “Care for the Earth: Give Thanks Frequently.” Talk about the suggestions at your Thanksgiving table.
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. 24. 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. Contributors may pick up a poinsettia Dec. 24 after the 4:30 p.m. Christmas program or after the 11 p.m. program; or, if you can, leave them for the service on Dec. 29.
Next Sunday is the first Sunday in the Advent season. As BCMC has done in the past, there will be no centering music; instead, during Advent, there will be an extended prelude beginning at 9:15 a.m. December 1: Open Road from Bethel College; December 8: BCMC musicians; December 15: BCMC Bell Choir; December 22: BCMC young people. Come early to hear music to prepare us for the Christmas season!
To put on your calendar: · Don’t forget to fill out your bcmcXpress on-line intent form. If you prefer, there are paper copies on the ledge in the Gathering Place. · Jan. 25, 2025 Leadership Retreat (more details to come later)
BCMC Offering for Nov. 17: Gen. Fund $8,682; Wed. Supper $304; Caring Fund $841.50; Flower Fund $20; Kitchen Fund $7; Mission Quilters $187.60
The Deacons Commission invites you to donate to the BCMC Caring Fund budget. A fishbowl will be available for your donation in the back of the sanctuary. Thank you for your continued support. The Deacons Commission
Peace Pole Dedication We will be dedicating our newly renovated peace pole on December 1 between worship and Sunday school. Please dress warm and come to the northwest corner of the BCMC property for a short litany and photo opportunity as we bear witness to peace in our community and around the world. May peace prevail.
Invitation to join Fine Arts class for Advent! Starting on December 1, the Fine Arts class will be following the Sunday School/small group materials in Pastor Joanna’s book, Expecting Emmanuel. Fine Arts class meets in Room 22. Kindly inform Elizabeth Schmidt if you plan to join so that we can accommodate group size.
The Library Theme until the end of November is Immigration. When we chose this theme several months ago, the Committee felt that this would be a timely topic and it turns out to be even more so since the election. These books are on the east wall behind the library desk. We also have several new titles on our Recent Shelving on the west wall. Please come in and check us out. And, don’t forget that we still have many puzzles for your puzzling pleasure with a suggested donation of $5.
Bethel College Announcements: · Sun., Nov. 24: Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum program, “Diversity and Complexity in Indian Kansas,” Eric Anderson, Haskell Indian Nations University, 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum auditorium · Sun., Dec. 1: Celebrate Museum Store Sunday at Kauffman Museum, 1:30 4:30 p.m. At 3 p.m., there will be a German Christmas singalong (Deutsche Weihnachtslieder) with William Eash, Merle Schlabaugh and Karen Bauman Schlabaugh In the museum auditorium. BYOP (bring your own peppernuts (pfeffernusse). · Tues., Dec. 3: Bethel College Wind Ensemble, directed by Chris Miertschin, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center · Wed., Dec. 4: Singalong to Christmas portions of Handel’s Messiah, 11 a.m., with chamber orchestra and soloists, Bethel College Mennonite Church. Scores provided. · Thurs., Dec. 5: Gala Jazz, directed by Chris Miertschin, 7:30 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center · Sat., Dec. 7: 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. · Sun., Dec. 8: 37th annual Lighting of the Green, 8 p.m. on the Bethel College campus · Now in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College: “The Pandemic Portraits,” works by Nicholas Hill, through Dec. 7. Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
Bake Sale items are needed for the “Friends of Kidron Holiday Market, Sat., Dec. 7, 9 a.m.—1 p.m. They are asking for donations for the Friends of Kidron bake sale booth. Popular items are cinnamon/pecan rolls, coffee cakes, breads, cakes, zwiebach, pies, cookies, cupcakes, muffins, jelly/jam, candy/fudge, and other sweets. Please drop off the baked goods Fri., Dec. 6 in Kidron Hall from 9 to 4 p.m. or Sat., Dec. 7 at 8 a.m. All proceeds benefit the Kidron Health Care Benevolent Fund.
Kidron Bethel Village will host its annual Holiday Market from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Sat., Dec. 7, at Kidron Hall, 3001 Ivy Dr., North Newton. The event features local artisans selling handmade items, gifts and baked goods. Proceeds benefit the Kidron Bethel Village Health Care Benevolent Fund, which assists residents who, due to unforeseen circumstances, are unable to cover the full costs of their care.
The Newton Treble Clef Annual Vespers will be Sun., Dec. 1, 3 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 900 Columbus, Newton. Prelude begins at 2:45 p.m. with Connie Rickard, saxophone. Program includes: Treble Clef Chorus, Prairie Bronze Handbell Ensemble, and the Schrag Siblings. A freewill offering will be taken for the scholarship fund that is awarded to high school seniors who are pursuing a music major. Be our guest and begin your Christmas season.
All bakers and craft makers are invited to make items for 5 Places of Christmas which will be Sat., Dec. 7, from 10 a.m.—3 p.m. at Goerz House, Bethel College. Bethel College Women’s Association will again be selling baked goods, candy, craft items and poinsettias. Your homemade cookies, zwiebach, cinnamon rolls, peppernuts and poppyseed rolls are always great sellers. This year we are especially asking for homemade candies such as fudge, peanut clusters, peanut butter balls and peanut brittle as well as other non-chocolate candies. We are also looking for Christmas craft items to sell. Please bring your items to Goerz House on Friday, December 6, from 2-5 p.m. or on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 9:30-10 a.m. Thank you for your support of Bethel College.
Camp Mennoscah Announcements
The Verenike Meal has returned! Save the date for a tasty verenike casserole meal on Saturday, December 14, at Faith Mennonite Church at 5:30pm. Meals will be pick up or delivery. A reservation form will be available soon.
Other events and happenings:
The Board of Directors has written a letter regarding the challenges Camp Mennoscah is facing. The letter can be found here.
Giving Tuesday is December 3! From the widow’s two coins to Zaccheus giving half his possessions to the men who lowered a sick person through the roof to Jesus, each person contributed to Jesus’ ministering. You can also be part of Jesus’ work at Camp Mennoscah through prayer, volunteering, or financial gifts. Your gifts support summer youth camps, the comfort and enjoyment of guest groups, and care of the facilities. Give online at campmennoscah.org through the Donate Here button or send to Camp Mennoscah.
There are currently materials on hand for 18 of 35 projects remaining on the HVAC renovation at the Retreat Center. Work groups can be of any size (within reason). Contact Isaac at 316-217-5626 or Olivia at 316-293-7313 to set up a time for you or your group. If you are interested in working on a weekend, advance notice of two weeks is needed. A lack of construction skills should not keep you from helping. Willing hands and the ability to follow directions are the only requirements. (Activities for those under 18 are limited and likely not at the Retreat Center.)
Save the Date!The 2025 Western District Conference Annual Assembly will beAug 8-9, 2025 at Hesston Mennonite Church, Hesston, KS. Along with others around the globe, next year at Assembly we plan to celebrate 500 years of Anabaptism. Please add this to your calendar and plan to join us!
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Announcements A big thank you to all who donated money and or volunteered labor for this year’s Mennonite Central Committee meat canning project. The amount of $4,575 has been given so far this year for meat canning. — Lowell Stucky, BCMC representative for MCC Meat Canning
· MCC Borderlands Peace Camp, Jan. 19-25, 2025 Young adults, ages 18-30, are invited to join MCC in El Paso, TX and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico in January. This MCC Peace Camp will explore topics of peace and justice through the lens of migration, including the Biblical mandate of hospitality. Find out more and register by January 5 at mcc.org/borderlands-peace-camp. · Serving And Learning Together (SALT) applications now open for 2025! Each year, MCC offers 80+ unique opportunities to serve with our local partners working for relief, development and peace around the world. Explore the numerous possibilities that match your passions, skills, and experience. If you’re between the ages of 18-30, the SALT program might be the epic adventure you’ve been waiting for. Check it out at mcc.org/salt · MCC Open House, 121 E. 30th St., North Newton, Tues., Dec. 3 from 2 p.m.—4 p.m. All are welcome to come see the updated space at MCC Central States in North Newton. Bring your Christmas shopping list to get your alternative Christmas gifts purchased from our tree, visit with MCC staff, and get a tour while you enjoy some snacks. mcc.org/open-house · Giving Tuesday at MCC, Tues., Dec. 3 from 6:30 p.m.—8 p.m. This annual evening of service will kick off your holiday season! It is an all-ages event focused on service and fellowship. Please bring new dark colored hand towels with you – the more you bring, the more hygiene kits we can pack. There will be Christmas cards to write in and comforters to tie and snacks to enjoy. A great way to give back on Giving Tuesday! mcc.org/giving-Tuesday · Yule love this! Join us for a live, online event Dec. 3, 11 a.m. CST as we take you behind the scenes of MCC’s Christmas Giving Guide. Discover the impact behind each gift and how your generosity makes a difference. Learn more and register to join this event at mcc.org/yule-love-this.
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here For Mennonite Mission Network “News from around the world” press here For Mennonite Disaster Service “On the Level” press here For Mennonite Church USA “Giving Tuesday” (December 3) press here
For “Anabaptist World” Special Issue 500 Years of Anabaptism press here
Mennonite Church USA Announcements Mennonite Church USA convention planners have released the tentative event schedule and learning track descriptions for next year’s convention, Follow Jesus ’25, which will take place July 8-12, 2025, at Koury Convention Center, in Greensboro, North Carolina. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/schedule-seminar-followjesus25
Call for blogs! Members of MC USA who were not raised in a Mennonite tradition or people who grew up in MC USA but feel that they have actively chosen to remain Mennonite as they grew into their faith are invited to submit a 500-900 word “Menno by Choice” blog about why they have actively chosen to be a Mennonite. Learn more here: mennoniteusa.org/form-choice-request View the PDF here: mennoniteusa.org/choice-slide View the PowerPoint slide here: mennoniteusa.org/choice-blog-slide
Menno Snapshots
On the one-year anniversary of the beginning of the Israel-Hamas war, Oct. 7, Amy Yoder McGloughlin, conference minister for Allegheny Mennonite Conference, reflected on how the imagery of Rachel’s tears applies to the current war. Read her reflections here: mennoniteusa.org/anniversary-israel-hamas-war
Paula Holtzinger, a graduate of Eastern Mennonite University’s Center for Justice and Peacebuilding, provides insight on how to effectively handle conflict, through listening, leaning in and utilizing resources. Read her thoughts here: mennoniteusa.org/listening-leaning-in
MC USA, Executive Office Manager, Elkhart, Indiana (full-time, onsite) MC USA is seeking an Executive Office Manager for the Elkhart office to provide administrative assistance to the associate executive directors and administrative support to the Executive Board, Constituency Leaders Council and the Delegate Assembly. View the job description here. To request an application form, contact HR@MennoniteUSA.org or call 574-343-1310.
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: On Thanksgiving Day, Joseph and Rachel Givens, who are serving with Mennonite Mission Network, will continue a tradition of gathering the guests of Maria Skobtsova House and the other houses of refuge around Calais, France, for a meal. Pray that on this day, God’s love will be shown, so that people fleeing violence may find community and people who are hungry may eat their fill.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: During this Thanksgiving Season, give thanks for the amazing church planting opportunities. Give thanks for the pastors & lay leaders who are ministering to the needs of people & building communities of faith, & for the many ways WDC supports them. Give thanks for the many who provide resources of finances, vision & time to the efforts of church planting. -WDC Church Planting Commission
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, or age.
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR SUNDAY, November 17, 2024
Our faith in a God of love leads us, by the power of the Spirit, to follow Jesus in doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.
To livestream the worship service: On Sunday morning, around 9:20 a.m., 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/3R0UK8Wn5GY?feature=share
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH November 17, 2024
Christ Candle Lighting
Centering Music—We Gather Together (Raney)—Chancel Bells, Verlene Garber, director
Welcome & Prayer—Karen Ediger
*Hymn—”Could It Be That God Is Singing”—VT 42
Children’s Conversation—Jeanette Leary
Worship Music—Acclamation of Praise (Raney)—Chancel Bells
*Hymn—God of the Fertile Fields—VT 750
Scripture Reading—Luke 16:1-13—Judy Kliewer and Naomi Koontz
Sermon—Serving God, Not the Economy”—Joanna Harader
*Hymn—”God Whose Giving—VT 745
Prayers of God’s People—Karen Ediger
*Hymn—”People That on Earth Do Dwell”—VT 5
*Benediction
Postlude—Allegro (J.S. Bach)—Karen Schlabaugh
* You are invited to stand VT = “Voices Together” Audio visual—Ken Lamp
The Week at BCMC: November 17—November 24, 2024 Sunday, November 17, 2024 9:30 a.m. Worship: sermon by Joanna Harader —10:30 a.m. Faith Formation Attendants in Nursery today: Adah Hodge, Mara Oswald, Kevin Neufeld YouTube Link for the worship service this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/3R0UK8Wn5GY?feature=share
Sunday, November 17: 3 p.m. Newton Chorale and Newton Community Children’s Choir Concert in the Sanctuary — All are invited!
Tuesday, November 19, 2024 6 p.m. Women’s Fellowship General Meeting in Fellowship Hall with meal. (By reservation) Wednesday, November 20, 2024—Last Wednesday Night Supper 6 p.m. Wednesday night supper in Fellowship Hall—PLEASE BRING YOUR OWN TABLEWARE—BRING A BOWL FOR SOUP—Menu: Italian Wedding Soup, Garlic breadsticks, Salad, Pumpkin dump cake Please plan to join us for the last Wednesday night supper and a program on November 20. The meal will begin at 6 p.m., followed by a program on “Exploring our Voices Together.” Our final Wednesday evening program this fall will be a hymn sing! Bring your song requests and your willingness to make a joyful noise.
Wednesday, November 20: 7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal in the Sanctuary
Thursday, November 21, 2024 6:30 p.m. Chancel Bells rehearsal in Room B7 7 p.m. Deacon Commission meeting in Room 14
Sunday, November 24, 2024—Thanksgiving Sunday 9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz; music by Chancel Choir 10:30 a.m. Faith Formation
You are invited to attend the fall concert of The Newton Chorale and Newton Community Children’s Choir, Sunday, Nov. 17 at 3:00 p.m. at Bethel College Mennonite Church. Each choir will sing a selection of pieces, and then the choirs will join together to sing “Peace, Everywhere.” Admission is free; a freewill offering will be taken. Note that the concert begins at 3 p.m. Women’s Fellowship General Meeting will be Tues., Nov. 19 in Fellowship Hall at 6 p.m. with meal prepared by Sue Moyo and sharing her journey from Zimbabwe to the United States. Cost of meal – by donation with reservation.
BCMC Offering for Nov. 10: Gen. Fund $3,792; Wed.Supper $409; Meat Canning $650; Library Reserve Fund $15; Kitchen Fund $19; Solar Fund $80.
To put on your calendar: · Don’t forget to fill out your bcmcXpress on-line intent form. If you prefer, there are paper copies on the ledge in the Gathering Place. The online form is at the end of this email. · Jan. 25, 2025 Leadership Retreat (more details to come later)
The Repair Coalition has asked us to remember, as we come upon Thanksgiving time, how our families have benefitted from past and present colonization, access to originally Indigenous lands, and how we continue to benefit from colonization today. Check the poster, “How To Be An Ally to Indigenous Peoples,” which offers us some great ally practices beginning with “Care for the Earth: Give Thanks Frequently.” Talk about the suggestions at your Thanksgiving table.
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. 24. 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. Contributors may pick up a poinsettia Dec. 24 after the 4:30 p.m. Christmas program or after the 11 p.m. program; or, if you can, leave them for the service on Dec. 29.
Invitation to join Fine Arts class for Advent! Starting on December 1, the Fine Arts class will be following the Sunday School/small group materials in Pastor Joanna’s book, Expecting Emmanuel. Fine Arts class meets in Room 22. Questions? Contact Pastor Elizabeth. All are welcome to join in during this season of longing and anticipation!
Can a Book of Stories Bring Peace to Palestine and Israel? Western District Conference (MC USA) Israel-Palestine Task Force invites you to join us for a book discussion group Feb. 25, 2025, 7 p.m. CST held on Zoom. We will be reading Apeirogon by Colum McCann. An apeirogon is a polygon with an observably infinite number of sides. McCann is an award winning author who writes a book of tiny chapters, each one a breath, a feeling, a story. The book is based on the real life experiences of two friends, an Israeli who opposes the occupation and a Palestinian who studies the Holocaust. They meet in a parent grief support group, as both have tragically lost their daughters. Their raw stories and their ardent peace work buoy the heart as the book takes us on a journey through love, loss, reflection, and hope. As you read the book, note the artful connections between the stories and the theme of ending the occupation in Palestine. What stories of peace do you tell? We will take time in our discussion to reflect on the book’s stories and our own. To register, email wdc@mennowdc.org, and a Zoom link will be sent out.
Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Announcements · MCC Borderlands Peace Camp, Jan. 19-25, 2025 Young adults, ages 18-30, are invited to join MCC in El Paso, TX and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico in January. This MCC Peace Camp will explore topics of peace and justice through the lens of migration, including the Biblical mandate of hospitality. Find out more and register by January 5 at mcc.org/borderlands-peace-camp. · Serving And Learning Together (SALT) applications now open for 2025! Each year, MCC offers 80+ unique opportunities to serve with our local partners working for relief, development and peace around the world. Explore the numerous possibilities that match your passions, skills, and experience. If you’re between the ages of 18-30, the SALT program might be the epic adventure you’ve been waiting for. Check it out at mcc.org/salt · MCC Open House, Tues., Dec. 3 from 2 p.m.—4 p.m. All are welcome to come see the updated space at MCC Central States in North Newton. Bring your Christmas shopping list to get your alternative Christmas gifts purchased from our tree. Visit with MCC staff, get a tour while you enjoy some snacks. We can’t wait to see you at the Open House, 121 E. 30th St, North Newton! mcc.org/open-house · Giving Tuesday at MCC, Tues., Dec. 3 from 6:30 p.m.—8 p.m. We’re excited to host this annual evening of service to kick off your holiday season! This all-ages event is focused on service and fellowship. Please bring new dark colored hand towels with you – the more you bring, the more hygiene kits we can pack! There will be Christmas cards to write in and comforters to tie AND snacks to enjoy. What a great way to give back on Giving Tuesday! mcc.org/giving-Tuesday · Yule love this! Join us for a live, online event Dec. 3, 11 a.m. CST as we take you behind the scenes of MCC’s Christmas Giving Guide. Discover the impact behind each gift and how your generosity makes a difference. Learn more and register to join this event at mcc.org/yule-love-this.
Bake Sale items are needed for the “Friends of Kidron Holiday Market, Sat., Dec. 7, 9 a.m.—1 p.m. They are asking for donations for the Friends of Kidron bake sale booth. Popular items are cinnamon/pecan rolls, coffee cakes, breads, cakes, zwiebach, pies, cookies, cupcakes, muffins, jelly/jam, candy/fudge, and other sweets. Please drop off the baked goods Fri., Dec. 6 in Kidron Hall from 9 to 4 p.m. or Sat., Dec. 7 at 8 a.m. All proceeds benefit the Kidron Health Care Benevolent Fund.
Kidron Bethel Village hosts a “Holiday Market” with handmade items & goods from local vendors, Sat., Dec 7, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Kidron Hall. Enjoy holiday shopping and help support the Health Care Benevolent Fund at Kidron Bethel Village. Free admission.
Bethel College Announcements: · Sun., Nov. 17: KIPCOR Film Series presents Food, Inc. 2, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. This is the sequel to the 2009 documentary Food, Inc. Audience talkback to follow with Ryan Goertzen-Regier of the Kansas Rural Center. · Sun., Nov. 24: Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum program, “Diversity and Complexity in Indian Kansas,” Eric Anderson, Haskell Indian Nations University, 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum auditorium · Now in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College: “The Pandemic Portraits,” works by Nicholas Hill, through Dec. 7. Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
Life Enrichment program at Bethel College for Wed., Nov. 20. Life Enrichment is for people age 60 and above and is an excellent way to continue learning and meet people from the surrounding area in a relaxed setting. 9:30 a.m “Obsession: The Highlands and Islands of Scotland” Jim Richardson, National Geographic photographer, Lindsborg 10:50 a.m. Music selections by the Bethel College Concert Choir, Chamber Singers, Woven and Open Road, Dr. Henry S. Waters, director of choral music and associate professor of music
The Newton Treble Clef Annual Vespers will be Sun., Dec. 1, 3 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 900 Columbus, Newton. Prelude begins at 2:45 p.m. with Connie Rickard, saxophone. Program includes: Treble Clef Chorus, Prairie Bronze Handbell Ensemble, and the Schrag Siblings. A freewill offering will be taken for the scholarship fund that is awarded to high school seniors who are pursuing a music major. Be our guest and begin your Christmas season.
All bakers and craft makers are invited to make items for 5 Places of Christmas which will be Sat., Dec. 7, from 10 a.m.—3 p.m. at Goerz House, Bethel College. Bethel College Women’s Association will again be selling baked goods, candy, craft items and poinsettias. Your homemade cookies, zwiebach, cinnamon rolls, peppernuts and poppyseed rolls are always great sellers. This year we are especially asking for homemade candies such as fudge, peanut clusters, peanut butter balls and peanut brittle as well as other non-chocolate candies. We are also looking for Christmas craft items to sell. Please bring your items to Goerz House on Friday, December 6, from 2-5 p.m. or on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 9:30-10 a.m. Thank you for your support of Bethel College.
Mennonite Action Emergency Mass Meeting Thursday, November 21 at 8pm EST / 5pm PST Mennonite Action is holding an emergency mass organizing call on November 21st, 2024 at 8pm ET / 5pm PT.
Last November, we gathered to pray, grieve, and organize on Mennonite Action’s very first virtual mass call. Over 800 of us came together because we needed this community space to help process our shock, horror, and deep grief as the genocide in Gaza unfolded.
This year, in the wake of the election, we will gather to recommit ourselves to this movement for peace, justice and liberation. We will gather to process our fear and our grief about the future for our own communities and for Palestine. And we will prepare to continue to take mass, public action together.
Jr. High (Jan. 24-26) and Sr. High (Feb. 14-16) Snow Camps are coming again in 2025: The time has come to enjoy the beauty and chill of RMMC in the winter once again. Come play in the snow and on the ice and then be ready to come inside for good food, fellowship and worship together. Visit the camp web page (www.rmmc.org) for additional snow camp details and to register that you’re headed to the Colorado Rockies to start the new year!
Young Adult Snow Camp (Feb. 14-16) Young Adult Snow Camp continues to join the Jr. and Sr. High Snow Camp activities and fellowship with participants serving as program assistants AND participants at just the right young adult price . . . free!
Scrapbook Retreat, (Jan. 31-Feb. 2) 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.
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here Mennonite Church USA Announcements Mennonite Church USA, Mennonite Central Committee Central States and Eastern Mennonite Seminary provided an in-person conflict transformation training to 17 participants on Sept. 26-28, 2024, in Akron, Pennsylvania. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/conflict-transformation-training/
Jon Carlson, moderator for Mennonite Church USA, reflects on trends in church attendance and what they mean for how we do church together. Read his reflections here: mennoniteusa.org/37-5
Sheryl Wilson, vice president of culture and belonging at Bethel (Kansas) College, gives advice on how bystanders can better assess a situation in which they witness harm done to others, so they know how to step up without overstepping. Read her thoughts here: mennoniteusa.org/bystanders-harms-done
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Freddy Barrón and Margrit Kipfer Barrón, who are serving with Mennonite Mission Network in Bolivia, request prayer for all regions around the world experiencing a lack of rainfall that is leading to devastating wildfires. Pray specifically for Chiquitania, near Santa Cruz, Bolivia, where fires are wiping out the world’s largest remaining area of healthy dry forest ecosystems. Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for chaplains in WDC who are serving in hospitals, hospice, health-care communities, educational institutions, corporate settings and other organizations. Give thanks for their gifts of healing and care, and pray for God’s peace and presence to sustain them daily.
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, or age.
bcmcXpress 2025 Bethel College Mennonite Church This letter marks the beginning of bcmcXpress for 2025. bcmcXpress is the stewardship process used at BCMC to discern our individual financial commitment for the upcoming year.
The ministries at BCMC will be supported by the 2025 budget including peace and justice initiatives, outreach, pastoral ministries, youth ministries, faith formation, music programs, congregational care and many more. We ask you to prayerfully consider how you will support these ministries financially along with support for general operations of our physical plant in 2025. Thank you for the gifts you have shared in the past and thank you in advance for your part in creating ministry opportunities in the year to come.
To indicate the contributions you plan to make to the general budget in 2025, please complete and return the online intent form by Monday, November 25. You can access this form by pressing the button below. If you would like a paper copy you can pick one up from the ledge in the Gathering Place or call the church office.
Information from the intent forms is used to help determine the budget for 2025. BCMC’s Church Board will recommend a final budget for approval at the congregational meeting in January 2025.
May we, as a church family, look upon the coming year with gratitude for all we have been given. May we also seek new ways to reach out to the community around us and to share support and care for each other’s lives. Your financial giving helps BCMC explore the path God lays out before us.
Thank you for participating in our stewardship process for 2025!
In Christ, BCMC Finance Committee
If you plan to give via the electronic transfer system in 2025, 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 2025 Budget Information for Bethel College Mennonite Church (the budget narrative) click the button. If you would like a paper copy of the 2025 Budget Narrative, you can pick one up from the ledge in the Gathering Place or call the church office. Paper copies of the 2025 Intent Form are also on the ledge in the Gathering Place.
Centering Music—Allein Gott in der Höh sei Ehr [VT 38] (J.S. Bach)– Will Wiebe-Friesen
Welcome & Prayer—Marlene Faul
*Hymn—Come, Thou Fount— VT 563
Children’s Conversation
Worship Music— Praise the Lord (George Frederic Handel) Chancel Choir; Joel Garber, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist
Scripture Reading—Mark 12:38-44; Ruth 3:1-5; 4:13-17; 1 Kings 17:8-16—Bonnie Epp and Elizabeth Schmidt
*Hymn—I Bind My Heart This Tide—VT 556
Sermon—Generosity, Power, & Wealth —Nathan Koontz
*Hymn—Lord Jesus, You Shall Be My Song— VT 581
Prayers of God’s People
*Hymn—Eternal Light, Shine in My Heart—VT 554
*Spoken Benediction–Nathan Koontz
Sung Benediction—The Peace of God (John Rutter)—Chancel Choir
Postlude—Precious Lord, Take My Hand [VT 610] (arr. Jack Schrader) Will Wiebe-Friesen
* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together Keyboard- Will Wiebe-Friesen Audio visual—Ben Lichti
Sunday’s centering music is an excerpt from a chorale prelude by J.S. Bach from his masterpiece 18 Leipziger Choräle. The original tune derives from the Gloria section of the mass, which is normally set to very energetic, thrilling music. Instead, in this setting of the tune, Bach’s writing conveys comfort, a balm for the soul. The gentle, slow accompaniment and pedal line provide a foundation for the richly ornamented chorale melody. This 16-century tune was set to a new text in Voices Together [VT 38] by Catholic composer and librettist Sister Delores Duffner in 2013 and is worth taking a moment to read. I have found working on this beautiful piece a good way to calm my mind after a stressful day or week, and I encourage you to look up the full work by searching “BWV 662” on youtube. I hope that it will be a balm for your soul, too.
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR SUNDAY, November 10, 2024
Our faith in a God of love leads us, by the power of the Spirit, to follow Jesus in doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.
To livestream the worship service: On Sunday morning, around 9:20 a.m., 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/MTrcnl_V7Es?feature=share
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH November 10, 2024
Christ Candle Lighting
Centering Music—Allein Gott in der Höh sei Ehr [VT 38] (J.S. Bach)– Will Wiebe-Friesen
Welcome & Prayer—Marlene Faul
*Hymn—Come, Thou Fount— VT 563
Children’s Conversation
Worship Music— Praise the Lord (George Frederic Handel) Chancel Choir; Joel Garber, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist
Scripture Reading—Mark 12:38-44; Ruth 3:1-5; 4:13-17; 1 Kings 17:8-16—Bonnie Epp and Elizabeth Schmidt
*Hymn—I Bind My Heart This Tide—VT 556
Sermon—Generosity, Power, & Wealth —Nathan Koontz
*Hymn—Lord Jesus, You Shall Be My Song— VT 581
Prayers of God’s People
*Hymn—Eternal Light, Shine in My Heart—VT 554
*Spoken Benediction–Nathan Koontz
Sung Benediction—The Peace of God (John Rutter)—Chancel Choir
Postlude—Precious Lord, Take My Hand [VT 610] (arr. Jack Schrader) Will Wiebe-Friesen
* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together Keyboard- Will Wiebe-Friesen Audio visual—Ben Lichti
Sunday’s centering music is an excerpt from a chorale prelude by J.S. Bach from his masterpiece 18 Leipziger Choräle. The original tune derives from the Gloria section of the mass, which is normally set to very energetic, thrilling music. Instead, in this setting of the tune, Bach’s writing conveys comfort, a balm for the soul. The gentle, slow accompaniment and pedal line provide a foundation for the richly ornamented chorale melody. This 16-century tune was set to a new text in Voices Together [VT 38] by Catholic composer and librettist Sister Delores Duffner in 2013 and is worth taking a moment to read. I have found working on this beautiful piece a good way to calm my mind after a stressful day or week, and I encourage you to look up the full work by searching “BWV 662” on youtube. I hope that it will be a balm for your soul, too.
On Sunday there will be a table outside the sanctuary with post-election prayer resources. You are invited to take any resources you like from this table to use during worship and to take home with you.
The Week at BCMC: November 10—November 17, 2024 Sunday, November 10, 2024 9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz —10:30 a.m. Faith Formation Volunteer attendants in Nursery today: Megan Kohlman and Kathy Stucky YouTube Link for the worship service this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/MTrcnl_V7Es?feature=share
4-6 p.m. Mentor/Mentee Fall Get-Together in Fellowship Hall
Monday, November 11, 2024 6:30 p.m. Newton Chorale rehearsal in the Sanctuary Tuesday, November 12, 2024 9 a.m. Women’s Fellowship Executive Board meeting in Room 14 4 p.m. Staff Congregation Relations Committee meeting in Room 14 Wednesday, November 13, 2024—Wednesday Night Supper 6 p.m. Wednesday night supper in Fellowship Hall—PLEASE BRING YOUR OWN TABLEWARE—BRING A BOWL FOR CHILI—Menu: Chili, Carrots with Ranch Dip, pickle spears, crackers, Cinnamon Rolls 7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal in the Sanctuary Thursday, November 14, 2024 6:30 p.m. Newton Chorale rehearsal in the Sanctuary 6:30 p.m. Chancel Bells rehearsal in Room B7 Saturday, November 16, 2024 1-4 p.m. Newton Chorale dress rehearsal in the Sanctuary Sunday, November 17, 2024 9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz; music by Chancel Choir 10:30 a.m. Faith Formation 4 p.m. Newton Chorale Concert in the Sanctuary
A BCMC Mentor/Mentee Fall Get-Together will be Nov. 10, 4 to 6 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Mentors and Mentees come for pizza and games (trivia questions with prizes!) Please RSVP and dietary restriction requests to Kathy Stucky at 316-772-2479 (texts are welcome).
Women’s Fellowship, November meeting, will be Tuesday, Nov. 19, at 6 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Sue Moyo, originally from Zimbabwe and owner of Moyo’s Clothing Store downtown Main Street, will be our speaker and cook. She will cook a Zimbabwe meal for us. Reservations are needed. Call Marlene Faul, 316-283-3342 or email, marlene.violet@gmail.com by Thurs., November 14.
The Repair Coalition has asked us to remember, as we come upon Thanksgiving time, how our families have benefitted from past and present colonization, access to originally Indigenous lands, and how we continue to benefit from colonization today. Check the poster, “How To Be An Ally to Indigenous Peoples,” which offers us some great ally practices beginning with “Care for the Earth: Give Thanks Frequently.” Talk about the suggestions at your Thanksgiving table.
BCMC Offering for Nov. 3: Gen. Fund $7,842; Kitchen Fund $24; MCC Meat Canning $825; Gen Fund 2025 $10,000; Solar Fund $1,360; Wed. Supper $251; Clara Koehn Mem. $20.
Sing along…..All are invited to attend an hour long Community Hymn Sing led by Dr. William Eash, Professor Emeritus of Music, Bethel College. This event will be held at Eden Mennonite Church (401 18th Ave, Moundridge), Sunday afternoon, November 10 at 4 p.m. Be prepared to request your favorite hymn and a brief story, why it is a favorite. Refreshments served after singing.
Please plan to join us for supper and a program on Wednesday nights, November 13 and 20. The meal will begin at 6 p.m., followed by a program on “Exploring our Voices Together.” For Nov. 13: This week Elizabeth Schmidt will bring information about the hymnal committees approach to including music from Indigenous communities. Join us for learning, singing, and discussion. For Nov. 20: Our final Wednesday evening program this fall will be a hymn sing! Bring your song requests and your willingness to make a joyful noise.
Wednesday Supper Menus—Please bring your own tableware—For the next two suppers, bring a bowl! Nov 13: Chili, Carrots with Ranch Dip, pickle spears, crackers, Cinnamon Rolls Nov. 20: Italian Wedding Soup, Garlic breadsticks, Salad, Pumpkin dump cake
Thank you BCMC members who donated to BC pantry. I was thrilled to find the cups of soup, granola bars, etc. Items were delivered to the BC pantry which was almost bare. These donations help students who may find themselves in need of a great snack when the cafeteria is closed: athletes returning from a game, late night study groups, etc. So, get involved, clean out your pantries and cupboards, put them on the south table and I will deliver them to the BC pantry. With gratitude, Kathy Stucky
Invitation to join Fine Arts class for Advent! Starting on December 1, the Fine Arts class will be following the Sunday School/small group materials in Pastor Joanna’s book, Expecting Emmanuel. Fine Arts class meets in Room 22. Questions? Contact Pastor Elizabeth. All are welcome to join in during this season of longing and anticipation!
Habitat for Humanity of Harvey County and its BCMC Board Members Richard Friesen, Doug Penner, and Heather Zerger, invite you to join us at our annual Pork Chop Dinner fundraiser on November 21, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Faith Mennonite Church, 2100 N. Anderson Ave, Newton. Dine-in and carry-out options are available. This is Harvey County Habitat’s largest fundraiser of the year and we need your generous donations to help ensure we can continue to build a new home for a qualifying family each year. To ensure we have enough meals, please reserve your pork chop meal (includes pork chop, potatoes, green beans, dessert and a drink) by visiting our website at https://harveycountyhabitat.org/pork-chop-dinner-reservations/ or scan the QR code on the flyer on the bulletin board in the hallway by the BCMC Office. Thank you for supporting the vision of Habitat for Humanity, where everyone has a decent place to live.
Can a Book of Stories Bring Peace to Palestine and Israel? Western District Conference (MC USA) Israel-Palestine Task Force invites you to join us for a book discussion group Feb. 25, 2025, 7 p.m. CST held on Zoom. We will be reading Apeirogon by Colum McCann. An apeirogon is a polygon with an observably infinite number of sides. McCann is an award winning author who writes a book of tiny chapters, each one a breath, a feeling, a story. The book is based on the real life experiences of two friends, an Israeli who opposes the occupation and a Palestinian who studies the Holocaust. They meet in a parent grief support group, as both have tragically lost their daughters. Their raw stories and their ardent peace work buoy the heart as the book takes us on a journey through love, loss, reflection, and hope. As you read the book, note the artful connections between the stories and the theme of ending the occupation in Palestine. What stories of peace do you tell? We will take time in our discussion to reflect on the book’s stories and our own. To register, email wdc@mennowdc.org, and a Zoom link will be sent out.
Everence will hold its Medicare workshop at its North Newton office, 3179 N. Main St., Suite 1B, Tues., Nov. 19, 6:30 p.m. Topics: when and where to sign up for Medicare, what Medicare covers, plus an explanation of Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D. Attendance is recommended for those approaching retirement or those ready to sign up for Medicare. Those interested in attending should contact the Everence office at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com.
Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Announcements · MCC Borderlands Peace Camp, Jan. 19-25, 2025 Young adults, ages 18-30, are invited to join MCC in El Paso, TX and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico in January. This MCC Peace Camp will explore topics of peace and justice through the lens of migration, including the Biblical mandate of hospitality. Find out more and register by January 5 at mcc.org/borderlands-peace-camp. · Serving And Learning Together (SALT) applications now open for 2025! Each year, MCC offers 80+ unique opportunities to serve with our local partners working for relief, development and peace around the world. Explore the numerous possibilities that match your passions, skills, and experience. If you’re between the ages of 18-30, the SALT program might be the epic adventure you’ve been waiting for. Check it out at mcc.org/salt
Bethel College Announcements: · Tues., Nov. 12: Bethel College Organ Recital Series presents Dr. Jacob Hofeling, with music on a theme of science and space, 7 p.m., Administra- tion Building chapel · Thurs., Nov. 14: Reception for “The Pandemic Portraits” (Nicholas Hill will not be present), 6-7 p.m., Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Exhibit closes Dec. 7. Gallery hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays, 2-4 p.m. Sundays. · Sun., Nov. 17: KIPCOR Film Series presents Food, Inc. 2, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. This is the sequel to the 2009 documentary Food, Inc. Audience talkback to follow with Ryan Goertzen-Regier of the Kansas Rural Center. · Sun., Nov. 24: Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum program, “Diversity and Complexity in Indian Kansas,” Eric Anderson, Haskell Indian Nations University, 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum auditorium.
· Life Enrichment program at Bethel College for Wed., Nov. 13. Life Enrichment is for people age 60 and above and is an excellent way to continue learning and meet people from the surrounding area in a relaxed setting. 9:30 a.m An Ever-Changing Institution: Evolving Services and Challenges in Public Libraries,” Dr. Cari Cusick, director, Newton Public Library 10:50 a.m. “YouTubing,” “Farmer Derek” Klingenberg, Peabody
All bakers and craft makers are invited to make items for 5 Places of Christmas which will be Sat., Dec. 7, from 10 a.m.—3 p.m. at Goerz House, Bethel College. Bethel College Women’s Association will again be selling baked goods, candy, craft items and poinsettias. Your homemade cookies, zwiebach, cinnamon rolls, peppernuts and poppyseed rolls are always great sellers. This year we are especially asking for homemade candies such as fudge, peanut clusters, peanut butter balls and peanut brittle as well as other non-chocolate candies. We are also looking for Christmas craft items to sell. Please bring your items to Goerz House on Friday, December 6, from 2-5 p.m. or on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 9:30-10 a.m. Thank you for your support of Bethel College.
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
Camp Mennoscah Announcements
Camp Mennoscah will be at Hesston, Tabor, and Bethel on November 11-13! We will start at Hesston College on the 11th and end on the 13th at Bethel College. Stop by the booth outside the cafeteria and say howdy! Summer staff applications will be available online beginning November 11.
A pizza gathering for those interested in summer staff will happen November 13th at 6:15pm at Back Alley Pizza in Newton. Call or text Olivia at 316-293-7313 to let her know you will be attending.
Other events and happenings:
There are currently materials on hand for 18 of 35 projects remaining on the HVAC renovation at the Retreat Center. Work groups can be of any size (within reason). Contact Isaac at 316-217-5626 or Olivia at 316-293-7313 to set up a time for you or your group. If you are interested in working on a weekend, advance notice of two weeks is needed. A lack of construction skills should not keep you from helping. Willing hands and the ability to follow directions are the only requirements. (Activities for those under 18 are limited and likely not at the Retreat Center.)
Order Extra Copies Now! Special Issue: 500 Years of Anabaptism
This January, Anabaptist World will celebrate the 500th anniversary of Anabaptism with a special commemorative issue of the magazine highlighting the history of the movement.
On January 21, 1525, in Zurich, Switzerland, a group of reform-minded Christians who met secretly to study the Bible decided to baptize each other. Defying the laws of church and state, their radical act marked the beginning of the Anabaptist movement.
Today, their spiritual descendants form a worldwide fellowship of Mennonites, Amish, Hutterites, Brethren and others.
Special features in the January 2025 issue will include:How Anabaptism began, including stories of the martyrs who chose death rather than deny their faith.How the Radical Reformation changed the course of history, setting the foundations for democracy and the free-church movement.Testimonies of Christians today inspired by the examples of the first Anabaptists.An Anabaptist family tree illustrating the movement’s growth and diversity over five centuries.Art and photos of people, places and artifacts representing the Anabaptist faith tradition. A world map of Anabaptist population today.Plus all the news, commentary and features you’ll find in each monthly issue of AW.Order extra copies of this special issue for use in independent study, congregation-wide discussions, Sunday School classes or small groups. Extra copies are available for order now for just $8/copy.
Includes shipping and handling. Delivery available for U.S. mailing addresses only. For international shipping options, send an email with quantity and delivery details to jenniew@anabaptistworld.org.
Order by Friday, December 13 for delivery by mid-January 2025. Supplies are limited, so reserve your extra copies today!
For Mennonite Central Committee “In Touch” press here For Kansas Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (KIPCOR) Shorts Continuing Education press here For Mennonite Education Agency “Advent at Home 2024” press here For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here For Mennonite Mission Network “Being a servant to one another” press here For Breckward Update press here
Mennonite Church USA Announcements Mennonite Church USA’s Church Vitality Office has awarded the 2024 Thrive: Church Planting Grants to five church plants across the denomination: Iglesia Cristiana Roca de Refugio, in San Antonio, Texas; Moveable Feast, in Chicago, Illinois; Summit Street Church, in Beatrice, Nebraska; The Intention Church, an online church community; and Wild Church Fresno (California). Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/receive-thrive-grants
MC USA’s “Learn, Pray, Join: Conflict Transformation” initiative provides tools and resources to help church communities peacefully engage in dialog around difficult and divisive topics. Visit the webpage here: mennoniteusa.org/lpj/conflict-transformation
In recognition and celebration of our 15 years of service, Mennonite Church USA’s The Corinthian Plan invites all interested persons who are part of an MC USA conference or congregation to submit a health and/or wellbeing story. Submit your wellbeing story here: mennoniteusa.org/tcp-wellbeing-stories
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Tomorrow, Barb and Maria Thuma will complete a six-week Mennonite Mission Network assignment at La Casa Grande in Benin. This is Barb’s second year of serving at the children’s home and school. Pray that the seeds of God’s love that were sown while Barb was teaching English and Maria was teaching Spanish will help point their students toward Jesus. Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for pastors and other leaders in WDC, that God would help them speak wisely and care compassionately for congregations and communities in the aftermath of the United States election.
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, or age.
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR SUNDAY, November 3, 2024
Our faith in a God of love leads us, by the power of the Spirit, to follow Jesus in doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.
To livestream the worship service: On Sunday morning, around 9:20 a.m., 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/8j_VVaS9LCc?feature=share
Daylight Saving time ends Sunday, November 3, 2024 Turn your clock back one hour!
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH November 3, 2024
Christ Candle Lighting
Centering Music— If Thou But Suffer God to Guide Thee (Bach)— Karen Unruh
Welcome with Land Acknowledgement—Dianne Epp
*Hymn—O God, We Read the Holy Law—VT 571
Children’s Conversation—Joanna Harader and Suzanne Burch, Lucy Burch
Hymn—Come What May—VT 768
Scripture Reading—Psalm 146; Mark 12:28-34—Lois Preheim
Sermon—Do Not Trust in Rulers—Joanna Harader
*Hymn—This Is My Song—VT 710
Prayers of God’s People—Dianne Epp
*Hymn Come What May—VT 768
*Benediction
Postlude— O God, Our Help in Ages Past (Fleischer)— Karen Unruh
* You are invited to stand VT—Voices Together
Keyboard- Karen Unruh Audio visual—Francis Toews
The Week at BCMC: November 3—November 10, 2024 Sunday, November 3, 2024 9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Joanna Harader 10:30 a.m. Faith Formation Volunteer attendants in Nursery today: Margaret Toews & Barb Voran YouTube Link for the worship service this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/8j_VVaS9LCc?feature=share
4 p.m. Bethel Sings, a concert featuring all Bethel College vocal groups, Dr. Henry Waters, director, with the theme “Sing You Home” and featuring the Concert Choir’s KMEA 2025 concert repertoire. All are invited! Monday, November 4, 2024 6:30 p.m. Newton Chorale rehearsal in the Sanctuary Tuesday, November 5, 2024 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Chapel will be open for prayer (see announcement below) Wednesday, November 6, 2024—Wednesday Night Supper 6 p.m. Wednesday night supper in Fellowship Hall—PLEASE BRING YOUR OWN TABLEWARE—Menu: Western Omelet Casserole, Frozen Fruit, Coffee Cake 7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal in the Sanctuary Thursday, November 7, 2024 2 p.m. Finance Committee work session in Room 14 6:30 p.m. Newton Chorale rehearsal in the Sanctuary 6:30 p.m. Chancel Bells rehearsal in Room B7 7 p.m. Church Board meeting in Room 14 Saturday, November 9, 2024 5-7 p.m. Camp Mennoscah Fundraiser Meal in the Fellowship Hall Sunday, November 10, 2024 9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz; music by Chancel Choir 10:30 a.m. Faith Formation 3-6 p.m. Mentor-Mentee Event in Fellowship Hall
Land Acknowledgement 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.
Going Beyond Land Acknowledgement: –The Repair Coalition is focusing on the Truth and Healing Legislation introduced by Deb Haaland currently pending in Congress. The bill establishes the Truth and Healing Commission on Indian Boarding School Policies in the United States and sets forth its powers, duties and membership. The Commission must investigate the impacts and ongoing effects of the Indian Boarding School Policies (federal policies under which American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian children were forcibly removed from their family homes and placed in boarding schools). Further, the commission must develop recommendations on ways to (1)protect unmarked graves and accompanying land protections; (2)support repatriation and identify the tribal nations from which children were taken; and (3)discontinue the removal of American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian children from their families and tribal communities by state social service departments, foster care agencies, and adoption agencies. See boardingschoolhealing.org. Now is the time to educate ourselves about this legislation to join the actions requested by the Repair Coalition. –See also “Elevating Indigenous Innovation” by U.S. Secretary Deb Haaland in the July 2024 special issue of National Geographic on Indigenous Futures.
The Chapel room at church will be open for prayer on election day (November 5) from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. There will be prayer resources available and a quiet space for you to pause, breathe, and lift up your prayers for God’s peace in our hearts, our nation, and our world. You are invited to come at any time during the day and stay as long as you like.
The family of Elvera Voth would like to invite interested persons to a service of remembrance for Elvera on Saturday, Nov. 2, 2 p.m., at Kidron Bethel—Kidron Hall. Her expanded life sketch is on the Petersen Funeral Home website.
BCMC Offering for Oct. 27 Gen. Fund $8,727.50; Kitchen Fund $68; MCC Meat Canning $2,245; Gen Fund 2025 $1,122.16; Solar Fund $500; BCMC Mission and Service Endowment Fund $98,071.89; Wed. Supper $321; Plant Fund $50; Peace Garden $2,000; Donna Friesen Mem. $125; Clara Koehn Mem. $690.
For those who work with children and youth at Bethel College Mennonite Church: thank you! The Abuse Prevention and Response Committee has established an account with an organization called Protect My Ministry which will allow us to more easily comply with our church policy regarding training and background checks for church volunteers. You should have received an email inviting you to fill out some online paperwork. We greatly appreciate you taking a little time to help us get this new system up and running as we work to be a nurturing and safe community for people of all ages. Feel free to contact pastor Joanna, Jill Robb, or Dwight Krehbiel if you have any questions or would like to volunteer and have not received the email.
Please plan to join us for supper and a program on Wednesday nights, November 6—November 20. The meal will begin at 6 p.m., followed by a program on “Exploring our Voices Together.” This Wednesday (Nov. 6) Esther Eash will lead us in an exploration of some of the artwork included in our hymnal and the songs that accompany them. Join us for learning, singing, and discussion. For Nov. 13: This week Elizabeth Schmidt will bring information about the hymnal committees approach to including music from Indigenous communities. Join us for learning, singing, and discussion. For Nov. 20: Our final Wednesday evening program this fall will be a hymn sing! Bring your song requests and your willingness to make a joyful noise.
Wednesday Supper Menus—Please bring your own tableware Nov. 6: Western Omelet Casserole, Frozen Fruit, Coffee cake Nov 13: Chili, Carrots with Ranch Dip, pickle spears, crackers, Cinnamon Rolls Nov. 20: Italian Wedding Soup, Garlic breadsticks, Salad, Pumpkin dump cake
Women’s Fellowship, November meeting, will be Tuesday, Nov. 19, at 6 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Sue Moyo, originally from Zimbabwe and owner of Moyo’s Clothing Store downtown Main Street, will be our speaker and cook. She will cook a Zimbabwe meal for us. Reservations are needed. Call Marlene Faul, 316-283-3342 or email, marlene.violet@gmail.comby Thurs., November 14.
A BCMC Mentor/Mentee Fall Get-Together will be Nov. 10, 4 to 6 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Mentors and Mentees come for pizza and games (trivia questions with prizes!) Please RSVP and dietary restriction requests to Kathy Stucky at 316-772-2479 (texts are welcome).
Thank you BCMC members who donated to BC pantry. I was thrilled to find the cups of soup, granola bars, etc. Items were delivered to the BC pantry which was almost bare. These donations help students who may find themselves in need of a great snack when the cafeteria is closed: athletes returning from a game, late night study groups, etc. So, get involved, clean out your pantries and cupboards, put them on the south table and I will deliver them to the BC pantry. With gratitude, Kathy Stucky
Invitation to join Fine Arts class for Advent! Starting on December 1, the Fine Arts class will be following the Sunday School/small group materials in Pastor Joanna’s book, Expecting Emmanuel. Fine Arts class meets in Room 22. Questions? Contact Pastor Elizabeth. All are welcome to join in during this season of longing and anticipation!
Habitat for Humanity of Harvey County and its BCMC Board Members Richard Friesen, Doug Penner, and Heather Zerger, invite you to join us at our annual Pork Chop Dinner fundraiser on November 21, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Faith Mennonite Church, 2100 N. Anderson Ave, Newton. Dine-in and carry-out options are available. This is Harvey County Habitat’s largest fundraiser of the year and we need your generous donations to help ensure we can continue to build a new home for a qualifying family each year. To ensure we have enough meals, please reserve your pork chop meal (includes pork chop, potatoes, green beans, dessert and a drink) by visiting our website at https://harveycountyhabitat.org/pork-chop-dinner-reservations/ or scan the QR code on the flyer on the bulletin board in the hallway by the BCMC Office. Thank you for supporting the vision of Habitat for Humanity, where everyone has a decent place to live.
Sing along…..All are invited to attend an hour long Community Hymn Sing led by Dr. William Eash, Professor Emeritus of Music, Bethel College. This event will be held at Eden Mennonite Church (401 18th Ave, Moundridge), Sunday afternoon, November 10 at 4 p.m. Be prepared to request your favorite hymn and a brief story, why it is a favorite. Refreshments served after singing.
Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Announcements · MCC Borderlands Peace Camp, Jan. 19-25, 2025 Young adults, ages 18-30, are invited to join MCC in El Paso, TX and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico in January! This MCC Peace Camp will explore topics of peace and justice through the lens of migration, including the Biblical mandate of hospitality. Find out more and register by January 5 at mcc.org/borderlands-peace-camp. · Serving And Learning Together (SALT) applications now open for 2025! Each year, MCC offers 80+ unique opportunities to serve with our local partners working for relief, development and peace around the world. Explore the numerous possibilities that match your passions, skills, and experience. If you’re between the ages of 18-30, the SALT program might be the epic adventure you’ve been waiting for. Check it out at mcc.org/salt!
Bethel College Announcements: · Sun., Nov. 3: Bethel Sings, a concert featuring all Bethel College vocal groups, Dr. Henry Waters, director, 4 p.m., with the theme “Sing You Home” and featuring the Concert Choir’s KMEA 2025 concert repertoire. Concert is at Bethel College Mennonite Church · Mon., Nov. 4: “The Pandemic Portraits,” works by Nicholas Hill, opens in the Regier Art Gallery in Lukyen Fine Arts Center at Bethel College (reception Nov. 14). Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m. · Tues., Nov. 12: Bethel College Organ Recital Series presents Dr. Jacob Hofeling, with music on a theme of science and space, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel · Sun., Nov. 17: KIPCOR Film Series presents Food, Inc. 2, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. This is the sequel to the 2009 documentary Food, Inc. Audience talkback to follow with Ryan Goertzen-Regier of the Kansas Rural Center.
· Life Enrichment program at Bethel College for Wed., Nov. 6. Life Enrichment is for people age 60 and above and is an excellent way to continue learning and meet people from the surrounding area in a relaxed setting. 9:30 a.m “Hope for the Homeless, One at a Time,” Brian Bisbee, executive director, New Hope Shelter, Newton 10:50 a.m. “Blizzards, Onion Rings and Dip Cones: Inside the World of Dairy Queen Ownership,” Helen Nachtigal, North Newton
Camp Mennoscah Announcements
Help keep the HVAC project moving towards completion! Volunteers for the HVAC work at the Retreat Center are welcome Monday – Friday. A lack of construction skills should not keep you from helping out with this project. Willing hands are what is needed! Let us know when you are available, so we can prepare for you. For anyone interested in working on a weekend, two weeks notice is needed. Contact Isaac at 316-217-5626 to sign up.
Other events and happenings:
Work at Camp Mennoscah does not stop when it’s not the summer! Contact Olivia at 620-297-3290 for ideas of tasks you could help us complete. We will work with you to find a time and project.
Thank you to everyone who helped take out the dam! This activity has been taking place–as far as we know–since the beginning of camp. The boards are removed to allow the buildup of silt from behind the dam to wash away with rain. Start tapping shoulders and thinking about the 2025 summer. Camp Mennoscah will be recruiting for summer staff (along with other camps) at Hesston, Tabor and Bethel Colleges from November 11-13, respectively. There will be a pizza meal on November 13 at a location and time yet to be determined for interested applicants. (The application is not yet open.)
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.
The MC USA Executive Board has published its updated “Guidelines for Developing Organizational Resolutions and Church Statements in Mennonite Church USA” and appointed a new Resolutions Committee ahead of the Delegate Assembly on July 11-12, 2025, in Greensboro, North Carolina. The deadline for resolutions is Nov. 13, 2024. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/resolutions-committee/
As a denomination that seeks to extend peace and dismantle oppression and violence, MC USA has a distinct perspective on social justice issues and concerns that impact our communities. Learn more about MC USA’s faith values, ongoing peace and justice work and resources for further understanding in the new “Exploring the Issues” downloadable resource series. Read the first backgrounder on immigration here: mennoniteusa.org/resource/exploring-the-issues
Join MC USA’s Climate Justice Coordinator Karla Stoltzfus Detweiler in imagining a sustainable future for ourselves, our children, and our planet by participating in an online book study of the compelling and timely book, “So We and Our Children May Live” by Sarah Augustine and Sheri Hostetler. Drawing from Scripture, science, Indigenous wisdom, and personal stories, the authors invite us to open our hearts and our culture to deep, Spirit-led transformation. Register here: mennoniteusa.org/climate-justice-book-study
Open enrollment for The Corinthian Plan, MC USA’s healthcare plan for pastors and church workers, is Nov. 1-Dec. 31, 2024, with a start date of Jan. 1, 2025. Learn more here: mennoniteusa.org/learn-more-tcp
Menno Snapshots
Stanley Green, executive conference minister of Pacific Southwest Mennonite Conference, offers this prayer, calling us to conflict transformation and peace, while asking God for wisdom and courage to enact change in a world full of discord and despair. Read it here: mennoniteusa.org/prayer-conflict-transformation
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Join Mennonite Mission Network in praying that this Tuesday’s elections in the United States will take place without violence and that the leaders who are elected will lead the country in ways of justice and peace. Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC congregations and members during this election week in the United States, as they seek to live faithfully and bear witness to the way of Jesus in today’s world.
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, or age.
Centering Music— Morning Song [VT 623] (arr. Joseph Martin) (piano) Will Wiebe-Friesen
Welcome & Prayer—Elaine Schurr
*Hymn—All Things Bright and Beautiful—VT 177
Children’s Conversation—Jim Robb
Scripture Reading—Genesis 1:1-5—Janet Friesen
*Hymn—Joyous Light of Heavenly Glory—VT 504
Scripture Reading—John 3:17-21—Janet Friesen
Worship Music—True Light (Hampton)—Chancel Choir; Joel Garber, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist
Sermon—Connecting the Night and Day—Nathan Koontz
*Hymn—Darkness Is Not Dark to You, God—VT 200
Prayers of God’s People—Dale Schrag, Mara Oswald
*Hymn—Now, on Land and Sea Descending—VT 503 (People with October birthdays come forward for a blessing, please bring a hymnal)
*Birthday Blessing and Benediction
Postlude— Toccata from Suite Gothique (L. Boëllmann) (organ) Will Wiebe-Friesen
* You are invited to stand VT—Voices Together Audio visual—Ken Lamp
Sunday morning’s choral anthem melds the energetic spiritual “This Little Light of Mine” with a 10th century text excerpted from Grigor Nerekatzi’s Book of Mournful Chants: “Don’t let the light that you’ve given me die, and don’t desert my mind, but let the one who serves you praise you again and again.” The piano centering music is a setting of the shape-note tune MORNING SONG, found in our hymnal (VT 623) with a moving text by Adam Tice, text editor of Voices Together. The postlude, a spooky and sinister toccata by French composer Léon Boëllmann, brings to mind the line from the anthem, “Hide it under a bushel? No! I’m gonna let it shine!” There’s a lot of hiding under a bushel in this piece, but listen for the final chord when that light really gets to shine.
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR SUNDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2024
Our faith in a God of love leads us, by the power of the Spirit, to follow Jesus in doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.
PUMPKIN PATCH INVITATION! Faith Formation invites the congregation to P and M Pumpkin Patch in rural Moundridge! Join usSaturday October 26, 5-7pm for intergenerational fellowship. We will have a campfire reserved for a hotdog and s’mores dinner.
Want to come? Great! Find a friend to carpool with and let the admissions booth know you are with BCMC.
To livestream the worship service: On Sunday morning, around 9:20 a.m., 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/OjIu7CxZ4nA?feature=share
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH October 27, 2024
Christ Candle Lighting
Centering Music— Morning Song [VT 623] (arr. Joseph Martin) (piano) Will Wiebe-Friesen
Welcome & Prayer—Elaine Schurr
*Hymn—All Things Bright and Beautiful—VT 177
Children’s Conversation—Jim Robb
Scripture Reading—Genesis 1:1-5—Janet Friesen
*Hymn—Joyous Light of Heavenly Glory—VT 504
Scripture Reading—John 3:17-21—Janet Friesen
Worship Music—True Light (Hampton)—Chancel Choir; Joel Garber, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist
Sermon—Connecting the Night and Day—Nathan Koontz
*Hymn—Darkness Is Not Dark to You, God—VT 200
Prayers of God’s People—Dale Schrag, Mara Oswald
*Hymn—Now, on Land and Sea Descending—VT 503 (People with October birthdays come forward for a blessing, please bring a hymnal)
*Birthday Blessing and Benediction
Postlude— Toccata from Suite Gothique (L. Boëllmann) (organ) Will Wiebe-Friesen
* You are invited to stand VT—Voices Together Audio visual—Ken Lamp
Sunday morning’s choral anthem melds the energetic spiritual “This Little Light of Mine” with a 10th century text excerpted from Grigor Nerekatzi’s Book of Mournful Chants: “Don’t let the light that you’ve given me die, and don’t desert my mind, but let the one who serves you praise you again and again.” The piano centering music is a setting of the shape-note tune MORNING SONG, found in our hymnal (VT 623) with a moving text by Adam Tice, text editor of Voices Together. The postlude, a spooky and sinister toccata by French composer Léon Boëllmann, brings to mind the line from the anthem, “Hide it under a bushel? No! I’m gonna let it shine!” There’s a lot of hiding under a bushel in this piece, but listen for the final chord when that light really gets to shine.
The Week at BCMC: October 27—November 3, 2024 Sunday, October 27, 2024 9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz 10:30 a.m. Faith Formation Volunteer attendants in Nursery today: Mary Ellen Hodge & Jeanette Leary YouTube Link for the worship service this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/OjIu7CxZ4nA?feature=share
Monday, October 28, 2024 12 p.m. Bethel College concert choir rehearsal in the Sanctuary 3 p.m. Bethel College choral group rehearsal in the Sanctuary 6:30 p.m. Newton Chorale rehearsal in the Sanctuary Tuesday, October 29, 2024 12 p.m. Bethel College concert choir rehearsal in the Sanctuary 3 p.m. Bethel College choral group rehearsal in the Sanctuary Wednesday, October 30, 2024—Wednesday Night Supper 12 p.m. Bethel College concert choir rehearsal in the Sanctuary 3 p.m. Bethel College choral group rehearsal in the Sanctuary 6 p.m. Wednesday night supper in Fellowship Hall—PLEASE BRING YOUR OWN TABLEWARE—Menu: Tombstone Casserole, Spooky Fruit Salad, Witches Brew Brownies 7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal in the Sanctuary Thursday, October 31, 2024 12 p.m. Bethel College concert choir rehearsal in the Sanctuary 1:30 p.m. Care Coordinator meeting in Room 14 3 p.m. Bethel College choral group rehearsal in the Sanctuary 6:30 p.m. Newton Chorale rehearsal in the Sanctuary 6:30 p.m. Chancel Bells rehearsal in Room B7 Friday, November 1, 2024 12 p.m. Bethel College concert choir rehearsal in the Sanctuary 3 p.m. Bethel College choral group rehearsal in the Sanctuary Saturday, November 2, 2024 2 p.m. Memorial service for Elvera Voth at Kidron Bethel Village Kidron Hall Sunday, November 3, 2024 9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Joanna Harader 10:30 a.m. Faith Formation
Pastor Joanna Harader will be out of the office Oct. 28 & 29. Pastor Elizabeth Schmidt will be on vacation Tuesday, Oct. 29. Pastor Nathan Koontz will be on vacation Friday, November 1.
The family of Elvera Voth would like to invite interested persons to a service of remembrance for Elvera on Nov. 2, 2 p.m., at Kidron Bethel—Kidron Hall. Her expanded life sketch is on the Petersen Funeral Home website.
Please plan to join us for supper and a program on Wednesday nights, October 30—November 20. The meal will begin at 6 p.m., followed by a program on “Exploring our Voices Together.” We will use material from the Voices Together editorial team to explore a variety of themes in our new(ish) hymnals and beyond. There will be opportunities for discussion and plenty of singing!
Wednesday Supper Menus—Please bring your own tableware Oct. 30: Tombstone Casserole, Spooky Fruit Salad, Witches Brew Brownies Nov. 6: Western Omelet Casserole, Frozen Fruit, Coffee cake Nov 13: Chili, Carrots with Ranch Dip, pickle spears, crackers, Cinnamon Rolls Nov. 20: Italian Wedding Soup, Garlic breadsticks, Salad, Pumpkin dump cake
BCMC Offering for Oct. 13 Gen. Fund $18,507; MCC Meat Canning $650; Library Reserve Fund $6; Solar Fund $1,580. For Oct. 20 Gen. Fund $11,732; Wed. Supper $617; Meat Canning $205; Sr Hi Youth $100; Library Reserve Fund $5; Kitchen Fund $63; Women’s Fellowship $390.
BCMC Financial Report The following is a BCMC financial report of the general fund income and expenses on September 30 at the end of the third quarter (75% of the year). Total income $335,757 62% of budget Total expense $370,461 69% of budget Net income -$34,704 — Finance Committee
Looking ahead to Advent: This year as we prepare our hearts for Christmas, we will explore the stories of the women from Jesus’ genealogy (Matthew 1:1-17). For our worship in Advent, we will use the book Pastor Joanna has written: Expecting Emmanuel. In addition to worship material, the book contains daily devotional readings and a Sunday School/small group guide.
Invitation to join Fine Arts class for Advent! Starting on December 1, the Fine Arts class will be following the Sunday School/small group materials in Pastor Joanna’s book, Expecting Emmanuel. Fine Arts class meets in Room 22. Questions? Contact Pastor Elizabeth. All are welcome to join in during this season of longing and anticipation!
For those who work with children and youth at Bethel College Mennonite Church: thank you! The Abuse Prevention and Response Committee has established an account with an organization called Protect My Ministry which will allow us to more easily comply with our church policy regarding training and background checks for church volunteers. You should have received an email inviting you to fill out some online paperwork. We greatly appreciate you taking a little time to help us get this new system up and running as we work to be a nurturing and safe community for people of all ages. Feel free to contact pastor Joanna, Jill Robb, or Dwight Krehbiel if you have any questions or would like to volunteer and have not received the email.
The church office is looking for anyone interested in helping to usher at funerals. We would like to assemble a pool of people who might be willing to greet people at the sanctuary doors, direct them to the Chapel, if necessary, or the nursery or restrooms and help them find a seat in the sanctuary. You would be a friendly and helpful presence. If you would consider doing this for the families and friends attending memorial services, please contact the church office.
Gather at the Warkentin House Sunday, October 27, at 4 p.m. for the Warkentin House hymn sing and faspa meal. The hymn sing will be led by Andrew Voth and accompanied by Karen Bauman-Schlabaugh. Reserve a spot by emailing warkentinmuseum@gmail.com. Suggested donation of $15.
Newton Area church’s Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Meat Canning dates are October 29, 30, and 31. Make checks to BCMC with “MCC Meat Canning” in the memo line. We also need volunteers to help with the canning. The link for work signup is: https://tinyurl.com/MeatCanning2024 If this doesn’t work, just show up—they’ll probably need you. Let’s help feed the hungry people in our world! —Lowell Stucky, BCMC Meat Canning Representative
Harvey County Circle of Hope invites you to their 12th Annual Celebrity Servers Fundraiser event Sat., Nov. 2, 5 to 8 p.m. , a 3-course meal served at the Water’s Edge Restaurant, Hesston. Reservations strongly recommended: call 316-284-0000; or email—info@peaceconnections.org; or visit—peace connections.org/events—RSVP by October 30.
Habitat for Humanity of Harvey County and its BCMC Board Members Richard Friesen, Doug Penner, and Heather Zerger, invite you to join us at our annual Pork Chop Dinner fundraiser on November 21, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Faith Mennonite Church, 2100 N. Anderson Ave, Newton. Dine-in and carry-out options are available. This is Harvey County Habitat’s largest fundraiser of the year and we need your generous donations to help ensure we can continue to build a new home for a qualifying family each year. To ensure we have enough meals, please reserve your pork chop meal (includes pork chop, potatoes, green beans, dessert and a drink) by visiting our website at https://harveycountyhabitat.org/pork-chop-dinner-reservations/ or scan the QR code on the flyer on the bulletin board in the hallway by the BCMC Office. Thank you for supporting the vision of Habitat for Humanity, where everyone has a decent place to live.
Sing along…..All are invited to attend an hour long Community Hymn Sing led by Dr. William Eash, Professor Emeritus of Music, Bethel College. This event will be held at Eden Mennonite Church (401 18th Ave, Moundridge), Sunday afternoon, November 10 at 4 p.m. Be prepared to request your favorite hymn and a brief story, why it is a favorite. Refreshments served after singing.
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements. Live at a distance? Wish you could read larger print? Want a good audiobook that will help you grow in faith? Wish you could access the library from your phone? The Western District Conference Resource Library has something new just for you! Launching November 1, you can borrow ebooks and audiobooks from the Resource Library! See more at mennowdc.org/library or contact the library at crlib@mennowdc.org
Bethel College Announcements: · Sun., Oct. 27 & Mon., Oct. 28: 72nd Annual Menno Simons Lectures, “Russian Mennonite Diasporas on Four Continents in the Age of Empires, Revolutions and Extremes Since the Late 18th Century,” with Dr. Eric Schmaltz, professor of history at Northwestern Oklahoma State University, 7 p.m. Sunday, 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday, Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Lecture 1: “Pioneers in the East: Mennonite Migrations and Settlements in the Former Russian Empire and the Former USSR, 1786-Present”; Lecture 2: “Pioneers in the West: Russian Mennonite Diasporas to North America (Belize, Canada, Mexico and the United States), 1874-Present”; Lecture 3: “Pioneers in the South: Russian Mennonite Diasporas to South America (Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay), 1874-Present” · Tues., Oct. 29: Bethel College Orchestra Halloween Concert, directed by Kris Hilding, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium. You’re invited to come in costume (you might win a prize)! · Sat., Nov. 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. · Sun., Nov. 3: Bethel Sings, a concert featuring all Bethel College vocal groups, Dr. Henry Waters, director, 4 p.m., with the theme “Sing You Home” and featuring the Concert Choir’s KMEA 2025 concert repertoire; Bethel College Mennonite Church · Tues., Nov. 12: Bethel College Organ Recital Series presents Dr. Jacob Hofeling, with music on a theme of science and space, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel · Life Enrichment program at Bethel College for Wed., Oct. 30. Life Enrichment is for people age 60 and above and is an excellent way to continue learning and meet people from the surrounding area in a relaxed setting. 9:30 a.m “Serengeti on my Mind: A Photographic Safari,” Jim Griggs, McPherson 10:50 a.m. “Longevity: Key Elements to Success,” Lona Kelly LMSW, Depart- ment on Aging, Newton
Supportive Communities Network (SCN) Bethel College Mennonite Church is a member of the Supportive Communities Network (SCN) of the Brethren Mennonite Council for LGBT Interests (BMC). The online events below are offered through BMC for member individuals and congregations. You are welcome to join any of these calls:
Parents/Caregivers of Trans & Queer Kids – Support Circle Oct 28 (Online) Monday, October 28 6p Central Time Sign up for Zoom link here (free) This circle is a BMC Zoom group for parents and caregivers of Queer, trans and gender non-conforming children: a space to support and encourage one another, share resources, and build community as people loving our queer kids! Light facilitation by Rachael, queer parent of a non binary kiddo and Mennonite pastor. If you can’t make this day and time but you’re interested, register for the Zoom and you will receive a follow up email about an alternative session. Folks can also email bmc@bmclgbt.org to RSVP or with questions.
SCN Meeting/Training (Online) Thursday, November 14th 1p Central Time for 90 minutes Sign up for Zoom link here These quarterly(ish) SCN calls are held to foster connection, resourcing, and organizing among SCN member groups. We alternate topics and try to rotate through the spectrum of need and experience within this network. November’s call will offer a workshop on “Beyond the Pride Banner,” helping groups take the next step in lgbtqia+ affirmation. Once you’ve joined SCN, crafted your welcome statement, and the pride flag has been hung, what’s next? The language we use in worship, the theology we preach, the lyrics in the songs we sing, and the words we use to pray matter. Pastor Liz Ullery Swenson will help us explore ways to take the next step in embodying God’s expansive diversity.
Trans 101 Workshop for Churches Wednesday, November 6th 2p Central Time Hosted by BMC’s colleagues at Transmission Ministry Collective (TMC): As part of our new Church Partnership Program, TMC will be holding a series of online workshops throughout the fall, specifically geared towards churches and faith communities that want to better support their trans community members and expand their understanding of trans-inclusive theology and pastoral practice. Our first 90-minute workshop, “Trans 101,” will be held on Wednesday, November 6th at 3pm ET/12pm PT. It will provide a comprehensive overview of core concepts, terminology, and best practices to increase understanding and inclusion of transgender and gender-expansive people. Sign up using this form to receive information about this and future TMC workshops!
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond (October 16) press here For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond (October 23) press here For Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level press here For KIPCOR Continuing Education “Shorts” press here For Mennonite Mission Network News from around the world press here
The Public is invited to attend “The Przechowko Mennonite Cemetery: Its History & Restoration by Dr. Michal TargowskiOctober 26 at 7:00at the Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church, Goessel, KsDr Targowski will share about the work being done to preserve the Przechowko village cemetery, one of the oldest Mennonnite cemeteries in Poland and the resting place for the ancestors of many Low German descendants that migrated in 1874. The event will be livestreamed from the Mennonite Heritage & Agricultural Museum Facebook Page.
Questions: contact Kris Schmucker, Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church Historian, at 620-747-2872From MC USA National Peace and Justice MinistriesDear Bethel College Mennonite,Register to participate in the Borderlands Peace Camp, January 19-25, 2025!MCC Peace Camps are one-week, hands-on learning experiences for young adults to explore dynamics of Christian discipleship, including building community together, experiencing personal transformation and applying Anabaptist foundations of peace and justice to real world issues.The Borderlands Peace Camp will explore topics of peace and justice through the lens of migration, including the Biblical mandate of hospitality. Participants will learn about the migration experience, identity and our perception of “strangers,” migration trauma and resilience, the complexity of ethics and law, and the ways in which the church can respond to these challenges.Join us in Ciudad Juarez and El Paso, where we will see the current realities at the Mexico-U.S. border, explore the root causes of migration from a peacebuilding perspective, and learn how community-based organizations and churches are accompanying migrants.Register now!Peace Camps are one way to encourage and support the next generation of the Church to live out an active faith as peacemakers. Young adults, ages 18-30, and church leaders who work with young adults are invited to apply. MCC covers all costs of travel, lodging and meals beyond the $250 registration fee. We encourage churches, schools, families and friends to support participants in the registration fee where possible. This is an opportunity not to be missed, so tap someone on the shoulder or come join yourself! Warmest regards,Nathan Toews Peace Education Coordinator MCC U.S. National Peace & Justice Ministries Dear Bethel College Mennonite,Having conversations about climate change can feel daunting. But when we do, we may find we have many of the same concerns as our friends and neighbors, rooted in shared values, beliefs, and interests. But how do we have these sometimes difficult conversations? As part of our ongoing commitment to care for God’s creation, MCC is encouraging our supporters to talk about climate. Drawing on Peaceful Practices: A guide to healthy communication in conflict, we will be sharing resources and tools for how to have conversations about climate change that can lead to understanding and action.Sign up to talk climate and practice peaceHere is a preview of some of our resources: Talking climate, practicing peace (podcast):Peacebuilder and author of MCC’s Peaceful Practices curriculum Jes Stoltzfus Buller joins MCC’s Relief, Development and Podcast to respond to listeners’ climate conversation questions. Virtual workshop: Talk climate, practice peace. On November 13, practice how to talk with others about climate change using curiosity, compassion and dialogue. Spots are limited, so register today! Take the challenge and be a brave peacemaker by talking climate and practicing peace! By signing up you will receive a series of four emails with tips and tools on how to navigate differences and uncover shared beliefs and interests. We hope you join us in this powerful climate action! Warmest regards, Kirstin De Mello Climate Advocacy and Education Coordinator MCC U.S. National Peace & Justice Ministries
Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Save the date! MC USA is pleased to announce that the 2025 biennial national gathering and leading faith formation event, Follow Jesus ‘25, will take place July 8-12, 2025, at the Koury Convention Center in Greensboro, North Carolina. Learn more here: mennoniteusa.org/convention View the PDF here: mennoniteusa.org/fj25_ad View the PowerPoint slide here: mennoniteusa.org/follow-jesus-25-slide
Call for blogs! Members of MC USA who were not raised in a Mennonite tradition or people who grew up in MC USA but feel that they have actively chosen to remain Mennonite as they grew into their faith are invited to submit a 500-900 word “Menno by Choice” blog about why they have actively chosen to be a Mennonite. Learn more here: mennoniteusa.org/form-choice-request View the PDF here: mennoniteusa.org/choice-slide View the PowerPoint slide here: mennoniteusa.org/choice-blog-slide
Menno Snapshots
Susan Kragt, co-founder and spiritual director with Grand Rapids (Michigan) Mennonite Fellowship, a congregation affiliated with Central District Conference, grew up in the Reformed Church of America, but found herself co-leading a small house church that had Anabaptist leanings, which led her and her church on a journey to joining Mennonite Church USA. Read more about her journey here: mennoniteusa.org/why-mennonite Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Today, Mennonite Mission Network’s Mennonite Voluntary Service participants from Arizona, California and Colorado are concluding their five-day fall retreat in Salt Lake City, Utah. Pray that they may return to their learning and service placements inspired and energized by the renewal they experienced in worshipping together and in sharing their experiences. Western District Conference Prayer Request: “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.” It all comes down to God, and church planting is His work. We are partners in this work, but any growth we witness is due to God, Lets pray to God who gives the growth, to give us wisdom, let’s pray to keep planting churches and find those who plant, as well as those who water. Let’s pray for God to give us the spiritual growth essential to accomplish God’s work. 1 Corinthians 3:6-7 -WDC Church Planting CommissionBethel 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, or age.
