Sunday, September 15, 9:30 a.m. Worship Service We welcome David P. Gushee. The BCMC Witness Commission invites you to this peace witness event around Peace Sunday today and tomorrow at Bethel College. Our church along with the Bible and Religion Department of Bethel College and in collaboration with area churches invites you to engage with Christianity and Democracy led by well known author, academic, and presenter, David P. Gushee (https://davidpgushee.com).
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH September 15, 2024 Peace Sunday
Christ Candle Lighting
Centering Music—O God, Thou Faithful God (Peeters) Verlene Garber
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2024–PEACE 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/hkQ4EV-UhIA?feature=share
Sunday School with David Gushee There will be a special Sunday School session with David Gushee in the sanctuary following worship at BCMC. All are welcome to join for a brief presentation and then time for question and answer. If you would like to watch this Sunday School session remotely, please click the following link: https://youtube.com/live/-0S6Kd7W_Wg?feature=share
Sunday, September 15, 9:30 a.m. Worship Service We welcome David P. Gushee. The BCMC Witness Commission invites you to this peace witness event around Peace Sunday today and tomorrow at Bethel College. Our church along with the Bible and Religion Department of Bethel College and in collaboration with area churches invites you to engage with Christianity and Democracy led by well known author, academic, and presenter, David P. Gushee (https://davidpgushee.com).
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH September 15, 2024 Peace Sunday
Christ Candle Lighting
Centering Music—O God, Thou Faithful God (Peeters) Verlene Garber
Scripture Reading—Romans 13:1-7; Genesis 1:26-27; Psalm 72:1-7; Matthew 22:15-22
Darlene Dick, Roger Juhnke
Sermon—Biblical Parameters for Thinking about Government—David P. Gushee
*Hymn—Let There Be Light—VT 714
Prayers of God’s People
*Hymn—Rain Down—VT 703
*Benediction
Postlude—Poco Vivace from Kleine Praludien und Intermezzi (Schroeder) Verlene Garber
* You are invited to stand VT—Voices Together Keyboard- Verlene Garber Audio visual—Ben Lichti
The Week at BCMC: September 15-22, 2024 Sunday, September 15, 2024—Peace Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. — Faith Formation for Junior and Youth 10:30 a.m. Volunteers in the Nursery today are Megan Kohlman and Kevin Neufeld YouTube Link for the worship service this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/hkQ4EV-UhIA?feature=share 10:30 a.m. Faith Formation in the Sanctuary—David Gushee will look at some of the key biblical texts on government and Christianity: YouTube Link: https://youtube.com/live/-0S6Kd7W_Wg?feature=share
Monday, September 16, 2024 7 p.m. Finance Committee & Church Board joint workshop in Room 14 Tuesday, September 17, 2024 7 p.m. Women’s Fellowship Meeting in Fellowship Hall Hola! Women’s Fellowship is starting their Fall programs with a trip to Spain. Plan to join Sarah Turner and her host sister Laura to learn more about this beautiful country. Tuesday, September 17, at 7 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Wednesday, September 18, 2024 7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal in the Sanctuary Thursday, September 19, 2024 6: 30 p.m. Chancel Bell rehearsal in Room B7 6:30 p.m. Abuse Prevention and Response Committee meeting in Room 14 Sunday, September 22, 2024 9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Joanna Harader 10:30 a.m. Faith Formation 6 p.m. Dessert Reception for Bethel College students on the sidewalk in front of Haury Hall, sponsored by the BCMC Relations Team with assistance from the BCMC Hospitality Commission. Save the Date for the Annual Dessert Reception for Bethel College students. This year it will be held ON the Bethel College campus—on a sidewalk going to Haury Hall—just a few feet from the BCMC grounds. Please bring a dessert to share and be willing to engage with students. Chairs will be set up in circles.
BCMC Offering for Sept. 8: Gen. Fund $8,494; Columbarium Fund $1,095; Caring Fund $50; Kitchen Fund $29.30; Solar Fund $230; Monica Gross Mem. $100.
Congregational Meeting and Membership Vote: Congregational Meeting Set for September 29: The next congregational meeting will be at 10:45 a.m. during the Sunday School hour on September 29. The meeting will be held in the sanctuary and made available live on YouTube only while the meeting is in progress; it will not be recorded. Remote viewers can text their votes to a number announced at the beginning of the meeting. Agenda items will include a vote for a change of Membership Guidelines and an update from pastors and moderators. The youth will host a fundraising luncheon following the meeting. Future congregational meetings will be held at 10:45 a.m. on January 26 and May 4, 2025.
Proposal for Action at the BCMC Congregational Meeting Sept. 29, 2024 The Church Board and Deacons recommend removing the “Welcoming Statement” (approved January 28, 2024) from Article IV: Membership. Both the Deacons and the Inclusive Task Group desire that the Welcoming Statement be separate from the membership guidelines. The current Welcoming Statement will continue to be used in BCMC publications but can be changed and updated under the leadership of the Inclusive Task Group. The revised membership guidelines for the congregational vote on September 29 read as follows: Article IV: Membership (Revised) Membership in the Bethel College Mennonite Church is open to all who affirm their faith in God, who seek to center their lives in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, who are open to the presence and guidance of the Holy Spirit, and who have received baptism as the symbol of their commitment and covenant. Bethel College Mennonite Church welcomes into fellowship and membership all persons who commit to Jesus Christ, without regard to their race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, economic status, marital state, age, or other factors which can lead to discrimination and marginalization. Members offer themselves to support Mennonite principles and to share in the life and work of this congregation.
After a discussion between the pastoral team and the BCMC board, we have decided to postpone the annual leadership retreat, usually held in the fall, to a yet-to-be-determined date in late 2024 or early 2025. This postponement will: 1. Allow our pastoral and moderator teams to continue their work of clarifying and defining their roles. 2. Allow pastors and moderators to create a leadership retreat that best equips leaders of commissions and committees for our current model of pastoral leadership. In the meantime, we encourage committees and commissions to contact Brad Kohlman if they have questions or concerns. Look for an update on the timing of the leadership retreat later this fall or early winter.
Notes for your calendars · The Central Kansas Master Chorale presents a Choral Festival, Sunday, Sept. 15, 3 p.m. at the Hesston Mennonite Church, 309 S. Main St., featuring the Newton High School Choraleers, Hesston College Bel Canto Singers, and the Central Kansas Master Chorale, directed by Joel Garber, accompanist Karen Unruh. All are invited. · The family of Paul Harms invites you to a 90th Birthday Celebration for Paul on October 6 from 3 to 5 p.m. in the BCMC Fellowship Hall. · The worship service on Fall Fest Sunday, October 6, will begin at 10 a.m. in the BCMC sanctuary. · Wednesday night suppers will begin on Oct. 16 and run through Nov. 20.
Abuse Prevention and Response Policy The Abuse Prevention and Response Committee, at the request of the Faith Formation Commission, has approved a provisional change to the Abuse Prevention and Response Policy that will allow our nursery to be staffed by one approved adult and one approved youth volunteer. (II.A.3) This change takes effect immediately. Over the coming months, the APRC will be reviewing the policy in full and will bring an updated version of the policy to the congregation for approval some time in 2025.Copies of the policy are available on the church website and in the office. If you have questions about the policy or changes to suggest, please reach out to one of the pastors or a member of APRC.
September and October Webinars from EVERENCE® Finances and You with topics that integrate your faith and finances! This is a free, four-part webinar series where you’ll hear how Everence® can help you make important financial decisions that reflect your faith values. The webinars will be presented by Everence professionals and there will be time for your questions. All webinars held on Wednesdays at 2 and 8 p.m. (Eastern Time) For more information, visit everence.com/national. Or Email: national@everence.com with any questions. · Sept. 18 Seminar: Getting our lives together, Giving our lives away, and Giving our deaths away. For those of us interested in integrating our faith with our finances, we often find ourselves focusing on different concerns throughout our lives. Intentionally embracing these unique periods of our lives can encourage growth in our stewardship journey and help form us into the image of Christ. Presented by: Colin Saxton, Stewardship Theologian and Director of Church Relations · Sept. 25 Seminar: Social Security: Understanding your benefits. Come and learn the ins and outs of social security that will provide you clarity as you consider your social security future. Presented by: Steve Lane, AWMA®, CFP®, Financial Consultant · Oct. 2 Seminar: Investing 202. Mutual funds, pensions, stocks, bonds, IRA’s, Roth IRA’s, 401k’s, Real estate. The list seems to go on and on for investment options. This presentation will help you sort through your investment options and other considerations as you explore what investments make sense for you. Presented by: Michael Burton, CFP®, CEPA®, Financial Consultant
Everence will hold a Medicare webinar Tues., Sept. 17, 6:30 p.m. including topics: when and where to sign up for Medicare, what Medicare does (and doesn’t) cover, Medicare Parts A, B, C and D in clear, understandable language plus budgeting for health care costs in retirement. There will be time for questions. Information presented by staff from the Everence offices in Central Kansas. To register contact Everence at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com. Attendance recommended for those approaching retirement or those ready to sign up for Medicare.
Dear Bethel College Mennonite,Join MCC, the Church of the Brethren, and the Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL) for a webinar on climate and peace! Learn from partners around the world how climate change is driving conflict within their communities and how they are acting to address this crisis.United in our call to stand for peace worldwide, many of us see climate change as one of the biggest obstacles to this goal. Hear how you can take action to advocate for international climate assistance and to support peace globally!Webinar: Climate and peace: Stories from around the worldDate: Sept. 25, 2024Time: 11:00 am EDT
Speakers will include Sibonokuhle Ncube, Mennonite Mission Network’s regional co-director for Africa and Europe; Lenny Thomas Aniah, gender-based violence coordinator for the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria; and Victor Odinda, climate solutions partner advisor for MCC Cambodia. Daren Caughron, legislative manager, sustainable energy and environment for FCNL, will share expertise on how you can encourage Congress to support climate finance for peace.We look forward to seeing you on September 25!
Bethel College Announcements: · Sun., Sept. 15: Forum on Democracy and Christianity with David Gushee, 3 p.m., Memorial Hall sponsored by Bethel College Mennonite Church and the Bethel Department of Bible and Religion. The afternoon’s events will include a keynote by Dr. Gushee and discussion around tables. Gushee will also speak in convocation Mon., Sept. 16, 11 a.m., in Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. · Tues., Sept. 17: Bethel College Orchestra, directed by Kris Hilding, 7 p.m., Memorial Hall · Thurs., Sept. 19: Guest piano recital: Dr. Brian Hsu, 7 p.m., Ad Building chapel · Thurs., Sept. 19: Artist reception for Gwen and Victor Rose and “The Rose Aesthetic,” 6-8 p.m., Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Exhibit closes the same evening. Gallery hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays; 2-4 p.m. Sundays. · Thurs., Sept. 26: The Bethel College Wind Ensemble presents “dinner and a show,” 6:30 p.m., Memorial Hall. Tickets are $20 per person or $200 for a full table (8 people). Call 316-284-5202, or go to Thresher Shop on the Bethel campus, Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-5 p.m., to buy tickets. You must have a ticket to attend this concert. · Bethel College’s Fall Festival is Oct. 3-6, with most activities taking place Sat., Oct. 5, on campus. Features include music, food, class reunions, football, the musical “9 to 5”, and the 50th-anniversary celebration for the social work program. See https://www.bethelks.edu/fallfest/ for the complete schedule. · Sat., Oct. 5: Sarah Augustine will give a keynote address for the 50th anniversary of Bethel College social work, 2 p.m., Kidron Hall at Kidron Bethel Village. She will also speak Sun., Oct. 6, 9:30 a.m., at Bethel College Mennonite Church, and Mon., Oct. 7, for convocation in Krehbiel Auditorium. The public is invited to any and all events. Augustine is the founder and co-chair of the Coalition to Dismantle the Doctrine of Discovery, author of The Land is Not Empty (2021) and co-author of So We and Our Children May Live (2023). · Life Enrichment program at Bethel College for Wednesday, Sept. 18. 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. Sept. 18—9:30 a.m. “The Death Penalty: Failed Public Policy and Doubtful Morality,” Ron Wurtz, retired public defender, Topeka Sept. 18—10:50 a.m. “Line Dancing for Life,” Lois Palmer, assistant at Newton Area Senior Center
Bethel College Women’s Association needs your donations of baked goods and craft items! Home-made pies, poppyseed rolls, zwieback, cinnamon rolls, other baked goods and treats for Market-in-the-Round at Fall Festival are welcome. In addition, home-made jams/jellies and craft items are needed. All of these items can be delivered to the Music Library in Luyken Fine Arts Center from 1 – 5 p.m., Fri., Oct. 4. All proceeds will benefit Bethel College. If questions email: bcwa@belthelks.edu Volunteers are needed as well to staff the booths. To sign up, use this link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0E4CA8A72FA3F58-50920044-fall/102465998#/
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
Camp Mennoscah Announcements
The Annual Meeting on September 22 will be a day of worship, fun, and fellowship, followed by the annual business meeting at 5pm. Events begin at 10:30am at Camp Mennoscah. Make reservations for a picnic-style lunch here. Donations will be accepted for lunch and for the Foundation 75 Capital Campaign.
Other events and happenings:
Summer is over and volunteer work days have been adjusted! 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.
Registration for the Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreats is open! The dates are November 1-3 and November 15-17. Lodging and crafting will be held at Main Camp in the bunkhouses and dining hall. Register here. We’ll see you for another fun weekend!
Tasks to keep Camp Mennoscah running smoothly continue into the fall and winter seasons. Volunteers are needed for grounds and deep cleaning, plus a variety of other things. Contact us at 620-297-3290, 316-293-7313 (text) or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org.
Kidron Bethel Village will host its annual Holiday Marketing featuring local vendors on Saturday, December 7. Vendors who would like to be part of this event are now being accepted on a first-come-first-served basis. To reserve a table, contact SheriE@bluestemks.org, or call 316-836-4821. Holiday Market gives Kidron Bethel Village residents and others from the community a one-stop place to shop for holiday gifts. The market is a fundraiser for the Health Care Benevolent Fund, a ministry of Kidron Bethel Village that assists residents who, due to unforeseen circumstances, are no longer able to cover the full cost of their care.
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here 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
Menno Snapshots
Spiritual director Reuben Chupp shares a poem about finding silence as a means to prepare for meetings with his spiritual directees. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/i-need-silence
Jon Carlson, moderator for Mennonite Church USA, shares his story of how he came to call the Mennonite church home the family-like belonging that has felt since joining this church. Read his story here: mennoniteusa.org/finding-home-mennonite-church
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network’s Service Adventure participants are learning to live in new households, integrating into their hosting congregations and settling into their service assignments. Pray for the participants, as well as Samir Knego, leader of the unit in Anchorage, Alaska, and Christian and Leigha Stoltzfus, who are leading the Colorado Springs unit in Colorado. Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for God’s wisdom to guide WDC congregations and members, as we discern faithful responses, actions and words in this national election season.
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.
*Hymn—God the Spirit, Guide and Guardian—VT 534 (Please sing the alternate tune: HYFRYDOL VT 218, Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus)
Installation for Pastor Joanna Harader—Kathy Neufeld Dunn Receiving a New Pastor—VT 967 Prayer Shawl Blessing—Elizabeth Schmidt Blessing for Leaders—VT 968
Prayers of God’s People
*Hymn—The Lord Bless You and Keep You—VT 846 (Please sing the alternate text printed in italics)
Sung Benediction—God Be In My Head (Rutter)—Chancel Choir
Postlude—Prelude in G Maj. BWV 550 (J.S. Bach)—Will Wiebe-Friesen
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 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/CdQCidVnixI?feature=share
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH September 8, 2024 Installation Service for Pastor Joanna Harader
Christ Candle Lighting
Centering Music—When Morning Gilds the Skies (arr. R. Haan)—Will Wiebe-Friesen
*Hymn—God the Spirit, Guide and Guardian—VT 534 (Please sing the alternate tune: HYFRYDOL VT 218, Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus)
Installation for Pastor Joanna Harader—Kathy Neufeld Dunn Receiving a New Pastor—VT 967 Prayer Shawl Blessing—Elizabeth Schmidt Blessing for Leaders—VT 968
Prayers of God’s People
*Hymn—The Lord Bless You and Keep You—VT 846 (Please sing the alternate text printed in italics)
Sung Benediction—God Be In My Head (Rutter)—Chancel Choir
Postlude—Prelude in G Maj. BWV 550 (J.S. Bach)—Will Wiebe-Friesen
* You are invited to stand VT—Voices Together Keyboard- Will Wiebe-Friesen Audio visual—Ken Lamp
Sunday we welcome Joanna Harader as installed co-pastor at Bethel College Mennonite Church, as well as new member! BCMC accepted Joanna’s membership transfer from Peace Mennonite Church in Lawrence on August 29, 2024.
Pastor Joanna will have office hours at the 1887 Cafe in the Schultz Student Center every Thursday morning from ten to noon. She would love for you to stop by for a chat!
The Next Week at BCMC: September 8-15, 2024 Sunday, September 8, 2024 9:30 a.m. Worship 10:30 a.m. Faith Formation for Junior and Youth YouTube Link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/CdQCidVnixI?feature=share
Monday, September 9, 2024—Pastor’s Retreat Day Tuesday, September 10, 2024—Community Playschool First Day of School Wednesday, September 11, 2024 7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal in the Sanctuary Sunday, September 15, 2024—Peace Sunday 9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by David P. Gushee 10:30 a.m. Faith Formation—David Gushee will look at some of the key biblical texts on government and Christianity. Peace Witness Event, Sept. 15-16 The BCMC Witness Commission invites you to the peace witness event around Peace Sunday on September 15-16. Our church along with the Bible and Religion Department of Bethel College and in collaboration with area churches invites you to engage with Christianity and Democracy led by well known author, academic, and presenter, David P. Gushee (https://davidpgushee.com).
The Schowalter Singers, a resident choir from Schowalter Villa, will present its fall concert, “Our Journey to Heaven,” Sun., Sept. 8, at 7 p.m., at Whitestone Mennonite Church, 629 Crescent Dr., Hesston. The concert is free and open to the public. Another opportunity to see the concert will be 3 p.m., Wed., Sept. 11, at the Schowalter Villa chapel, 200 W. Hickory, St., Hesston.
Hola! Women’s Fellowship is starting their Fall programs with a trip to Spain. Plan to join Sarah Turner and her host sister Laura to learn more about this beautiful country. Tuesday, September 17, at 7 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Check the announcements next week for more details.
Save the Date for the Annual Dessert Reception for Bethel College students September 22 at 6 p.m. This year it will be held ON the Bethel College campus—on a sidewalk going to Haury Hall—just a few feet from the BCMC grounds. Please bring a dessert to share and be willing to engage with students. Chairs will be set up in circles.
Dorothy Unruh turns 103 on September 12, 2024! Send birthday messages and blessings to Dorothy at 1407 Hillcrest Road, Newton, KS 67114.
BCMC Offering for Sept. 1, 2024: General Fund $2,562; Plant Fund $50; Library Reserve Fund $4; Solar Fund $50; Monica Gross Mem. $675; Marilyn Stucky Mem. $50.
Be aware of spam emails! It has come to our attention that a spam email with a pastor’s name has been circulating. The pastors or office of BCMC will never send an email with a “request for you to manage discreetly. I will appreciate a swift correspondence via email.” A quick check of where the email came from should tell you that it did not come from Bethel College Mennonite Church. Delete that email! If you are unsure, please feel free to contact the church office.
Thanks to you for you prayers, food and well wishes that you have offered to us during these recent weeks. It certainly made our load much lighter and validated for us that Marilyn was truly special. Thanks to the pastors and others for the visits to me and to Marilyn during the hospital/rehab period and also during the post death period. Thank you so much. LaVern Stucky and family
We offer sympathy to the family of Shirley Sprunger King. Shirley died August 31 in Goshen, IN. She was a professor of music (organ) at Bethel College 1977-1998, and then was Dean of Enrollment Services and Director of Admissions until 2002. She was also the organist at Bethel College Mennonite Church for 26 years. A visitation will be held at Eighth Street Mennonite Church, Goshen, IN, Fri., Sept. 13 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. The Memorial Service will be at Eighth Street Mennonite Church Sat., Sept. 14 at 11 a.m. Pre-service music will begin at 10:30 a.m. Please remember Shirley’s husband, Vernon, in your prayers. Memorials in Shirley’s name may be made to Mennonite Central Committee. (Make checks directly to MCC and mail to MCC, 21 South 12th Street, PO Box 500. Akron, PA 17501– 0500.) The live-stream link for the memorial service is: https://vimeo.com/event/3663844/92b2ec50a8
Community Playschool is gearing up for the start of another school year on September 10. We have 15 children and 8 volunteers lined up to participate in two classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We are offering a HUGE thank you to the youth group and their sponsors for clearing out debris from the perimeter of the playground. This happened on July 6 during their service/learning week. It was brutally hot that day, and they worked tirelessly to clear out several years of leaf clutter that gathers at the fence. We are so grateful to them for this effort! We hope you all can venture down the north hall in the lower level often after September 10 to see signs of our program at work right here at BCMC! — Jeanette Leary and Kasey Newell, co-directors
Join Mennonite Central Committee Great Lakes for the Dismukes Project Learning Tour Oct. 9-13: This tour provides an experience to learn more about Black history and experiences in the coalfields of Appalachia, while also learning the story of Dr. Henry Dodford Dismukes, an African American physician in the early 1900’s. Participants will visit various sites connected with Dr. Dismukes, hear from local speakers, learn about MCC’s work to preserve Black history in the area and attend the Dismukes Gala featuring John Ellison. Learn more and register at mcc.org/dismukes-learning-tour. Tickets are also available separately for the Dismukes Gala on Oct. 12 at mcc.org/dismukes-gala. Learn more about Dr. Dismukes and the project, including a video and podcast, at mcc.org/dismukes.
A Mennonite Central Committee immigration-focused learning tour in South Texas will be Oct. 6-11, a unique opportunity to engage directly with the work done by MCC and partner organizations. It will give participants the chance to meet with law enforcement officials from Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), gain insights into the complexity of immigration enforcement, including deportation and apprehensions, visiting migrant response shelters, and shed light on the challenges faced by migrants on their journey and raise awareness about the asylum process, and conditions faced by displaced and uprooted individuals. Register for the trip by Sept. 20. Questions: contact Becky Teiwes, MCC Central States Borderlands Program Coordinator at beckyteiwes@mcc.org.
Everence will hold an informative Medicare webinar Tues., Sept. 17, 6:30 p.m. Topics to include, when and where to sign up for Medicare, what Medicare does (and doesn’t) cover, Medicare Parts A, B, C and D in clear, understandable language plus budgeting for health care costs in retirement. There will also be time for your questions. Information will be presented by staff from the Everence offices in Central Kansas. To register contact Everence at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com. Attendance recommended for those approaching retirement or those ready to sign up for Medicare.
September and October Webinars from EVERENCE® Finances and You with topics that integrate your faith and finances! This is a free, four-part webinar series where you’ll hear how Everence® can help you make important financial decisions that reflect your faith values. The webinars will be presented by Everence professionals and there will be time for your questions. All webinars held on Wednesdays at 2 and 8 p.m. (Eastern Time) For more information, visit everence.com/national. Or Email: national@everence.com with any questions. · Sept. 11 Seminar: Why give now? 12 strategies to maximize your generosity in 2024. No matter income or age, explore how you can make a difference in the world by stretching the impact of your giving to the missions, ministries and organizations you care about. Presented by: Lyle Miller, Stewardship Consultant & Phil Pratt, Charitable Consultant · Sept. 18 Seminar: Getting our lives together, Giving our lives away, and Giving our deaths away. For those of us interested in integrating our faith with our finances, we often find ourselves focusing on different concerns throughout our lives. Intentionally embracing these unique periods of our lives can encourage growth in our stewardship journey and help form us into the image of Christ. Presented by: Colin Saxton, Stewardship Theologian and Director of Church Relations · Sept. 25 Seminar: Social Security: Understanding your benefits. Come and learn the ins and outs of social security that will provide you clarity as you consider your social security future. Presented by: Steve Lane, AWMA®, CFP®, Financial Consultant · Oct. 2 Seminar: Investing 202. Mutual funds, pensions, stocks, bonds, IRA’s, Roth IRA’s, 401k’s, Real estate. The list seems to go on and on for investment options. This presentation will help you sort through your investment options and other considerations as you explore what investments make sense for you. Presented by: Michael Burton, CFP®, CEPA®, Financial Consultant
FreedUp: Everence® is offering a new stewardship training program. The FreedUp program is a way for everyone to get their finances in order – and gain a deeper faith perspective on your money. Everence facilitators will lead the sessions. The upcoming option for participants is Mondays at 8 p.m. ET beginning Oct. 7; ending Nov. 18. Register at everence.com/partners.
Bethel College Announcements: · Sat., Sept. 14: Duo piano recital: Dr. Christina Liu (Bethel College) and Dr. Brett Janssen (Central Christian College), 4 p.m., Ad Building chapel · Sun., Sept. 15: Forum on Democracy and Christianity with David Gushee, 3 p.m., Memorial Hall at Bethel College; sponsored by Bethel College Mennonite Church and the Bethel Department of Bible and Religion. The afternoon’s events will include a keynote by Dr. Gushee and discussion around tables. Gushee will also speak in convocation Mon., Sept. 16, 11 a.m., in Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. · Tues., Sept. 17: Bethel College Orchestra, directed by Kris Hilding, 7 p.m., Memorial Hall · Thurs., Sept. 19: Guest piano recital: Dr. Brian Hsu, 7 p.m., Bethel College Ad Building chapel · Now in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College: “The Rose Aesthetic,” works by Gwen and Victor Rose, through Sept. 19. Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m. · Sat., Oct. 5: Sarah Augustine will give a keynote address for the 50th anniversary of Bethel College social work, 2 p.m., Kidron Hall at Kidron Bethel Village. She will also speak Sun., Oct. 6, 9:30 a.m., at Bethel College Mennonite Church, and Mon., Oct. 7, for convocation in Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. The public is invited to any and all events. Augustine is the founder and co-chair of the Coalition to Dismantle the Doctrine of Discovery, author of The Land is Not Empty (2021) and co-author of So We and Our Children May Live (2023). · Life Enrichment program at Bethel College for Wednesday, Sept. 11. 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. Sept. 11—9:30 a.m. “Thrifting for the Community and the World,” James Wilson, general manager, Newton Et Cetera Shop Sept. 11—10:50 a.m. “Exploring the Changing Distribution of Kansas Mammals,” Matt Peek, wildlife research biologist, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Emporia
Bethel College Women’s Association needs your donations of baked goods and craft items! Home-made pies, poppyseed rolls, zwieback, cinnamon rolls, other baked goods and treats for Market-in-the-Round at Fall Festival are welcome. In addition, home-made jams/jellies and craft items are needed. All of these items can be delivered to the Music Library in Luyken Fine Arts Center from 1 – 5 p.m., Fri., Oct. 4. All proceeds will benefit Bethel College. If questions email: bcwa@belthelks.edu Volunteers are needed as well to staff the booths. To sign up, use this link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0E4CA8A72FA3F58-50920044-fall/102465998#/
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
For Mennonite Central Committee “In Touch” press here For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here For Submitting your Health and Wellbeing Stories for the 15th Year of The Corinthian Plan press here For Mennonite Church USA Webinar “How to Recognize and Interrupt Possible Signs of Grooming” press here From Mennonite Mission Network “Choosing To Do Justice” press here For Mennonite World Conference “Courier” press here
Step in the footsteps of the early Mennonite immigrants on the Immigrant House Pilgrimage Tour September 22, 2024, 3:00-5:00pm Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church, 1304 K-15 Hwy, Goessel, Ks.
The tour to the site of the Immigrant Houses will be offered 2 times, at 3:00 pm & at 4:00 pm. Meet at the church and carpool to the site following a pilot car. Brian Stucky will present information about the immigrant houses and there will be time to explore.
Other activities will take place on the Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church Campus View an outline of the SS Cimbria. Experience food eaten on the ships, explore the church cemetery. Tours of the Church will also be given and will include an exhibit of the church record books from Przechowko, West Prussia, Russia, and Kansas. Church Tours will take place at 3:00, 3:30, 4:00, 4:30 pm Register to attend by Sept. 15 to goesselmuseum@gmail.com or call the Mennonite Heritage Museum at 620-367-8200 Registration appreciated but not required (Inclement Weather Date – September 29, 2024) Check Facebook or museum web site for more info www.goesselmuseum.com
Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Virginia Mennonite Conference reaffirmed its relationship with Mennonite Church USA at its 2024 Summer Delegate Assembly. Read the full story by June Miller here: mennoniteusa.org/virginia-to-remain
On September 16, 2024, at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT, join presenter Ross Erb, associate director of the Collins Center, and host Nancy Kauffmann, interim denominational minister of Church Safety, for an informational webinar on the vital importance of recognizing possible signs of grooming that lead to abuse. Grooming often goes undetected until abuse has caused significant harm and damage. With years of experience in dealing with this issue, Ross will help us better understand what grooming is, how to identify it, and how to prevent it. Register here: mennoniteusa.org/safe-church-sept-registration View the PDF here: mennoniteusa.org/safe-church-sept-webinar-pdf View the PowerPoint slide here: mennoniteusa.org//safe-church-sept-webinar-slide
Menno Snapshots
Doug Luginbill reflects on a Mennonite Mission Network Civil Rights learning tour that he took with Central District Conference earlier this year. During this tour, he learned the broader meaning of “potlikker,” a word he and his siblings used during their youth. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/potlikker
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Andi Santoso, Mennonite Mission Network’s regional director for Asia and the Middle East, and Joe Sawatzky, Mission Network’s mission education specialist, along with David Boshart, president of Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary, began two weeks of teaching in Indonesia yesterday. Pray that God’s love, truth and light may be revealed through this time of learning together. Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for youth sponsors in WDC congregations, and for meaningful conversation and fellowship at this afternoon’s youth worker resourcing and appreciation event sponsored by WDC on the theme of Building Community.
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, SEPTEMBER 1, 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/OUma3qVIp30?feature=share
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH September 1, 2024 Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Christ Candle Lighting
Centering Music—The Kingsfold Trumpet (Alfred Fedak) Will Wiebe-Friesen
Welcome & Prayer—Carol Peters
Land Acknowledgment & Presentation of Brochure —Raylene Hinz-Penner
*Hymn—For the Fruit of All Creation–VT 124
Children’s Conversation—Joanna Harader
Worship Music–Pastorale from Three Lyric Pieces (Raymond Haan)–Will Wiebe-Friesen
Scripture Reading—James 1:17-27—Vernon Goering
*Hymn—True Evangelical Faith—VT 439
Sermon—The Both/And Challenge of Faith—Joanna Harader
*Hymn—Sing a New World into Being—VT 809
Prayers of God’s People—Carol Peters
*Hymn—Go, My Friends, in Grace—VT 810
*Benediction
Postlude—Jesus, Lover of My Soul (arr. Don Hustad) Will Wiebe-Friesen
* You are invited to stand VT—Voices Together Audio visual—Ben Lichti
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: *Read Sarah Augustine and Sheri Hostetler, So We and Our Children May Live: Following Jesus in Confronting the Climate Crisis, and prepare to attend Sarah Augustine’s presentations when she is on campus during Fall Festival at Bethel College Oct. 5-7, Sat. at 2 p.m., Sunday morning and/or Monday Convocation. Sarah will preach at the BCMC Fall Fest Sun. worship service, Oct. 6, 10 a.m. *Follow the Apache Stronghold Prayer Journey which began July 13 and continues to the Supreme Court “to stop the shattering of the human existence and to protect Mother Earth.” They are in Cherokee, NC this weekend and plan to be in Washington DC by Sept. 8. *BCMC is joining an amicus brief on behalf of the Apache Stronghold case. All amicus brief signers are invited to send representatives to join Apache Stronghold in Washington DC on Sept. 10 and 11.
The memorial service for Marilyn Stucky (Marilyn died June 20) will be Sat., Aug. 31, 11 a.m. at BCMC, with a lunch in fellowship hall following the service. For the live-stream link for the memorial service press here
Pastor Joanna will have office hours at the 1887 Cafe in the Schultz Student Center every Thursday morning from ten to noon. She would love for you to stop by for a chat!
The Next Week at BCMC: September 1-8, 2024 Sunday, September 1, 2024 9:30 a.m. Worship 10:45 a.m. Safe Sanctuary Training in the Sanctuary YouTube Link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/OUma3qVIp30?feature=share Monday, September 2, 2024—Labor Day—Office will be closed; church locked Tuesday, September 3, 2024—Office will be closed Wednesday, September 4, 2024 8 am to 12 p.m. Community Playschool will be in kitchen/Fellowship Hall 7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal in the Sanctuary Thursday, September 5, 2024 12:30 p.m. Staff Meeting 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Community Playschool Open House in Playschool rooms 6:30 p.m. Chancel Bell rehearsal in Room B7 7 p.m. Church Board meeting in Room 14 Sunday, September 8, 2024—Installation for Pastor Joanna Harader 9:30 a.m. Worship 10:45 a.m. Junior and Youth Sunday School Begins
BCMC Offering for Aug. 25, 2024: General Fund $5,795; Community Playschool $500; Kitchen Fund $15; Solar Fund $1,517.95; Monica Gross Memorial $50.
ANNUAL SAFE SANCTUARY TRAINING FOR THOSE WHO RELATE TO YOUTH
Annual Safe Sanctuary Training for Those Who Relate to Youth will be Sept. 1 during the Sunday School time in the Sanctuary.
SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHING YEAR BEGINS SEPTEMBER 8 The Sunday School teaching year will officially begin September 8 and we are in need of teachers and helpers to teach 3 age levels of our youth: pre-k, elementary, and middle school. Even if you are the slightest bit interested, please listen to the call and email Jill Robb at jill@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org
Save the Date: Peace Witness Event, Sept. 15-16 This is a reminder of the BCMC Witness Commission plans for a peace witness event around Peace Sunday on September 15-16. Our church along with the Bible and Religion Department of Bethel College and in collaboration with area churches invites you to engage with Christianity and Democracy led by well known author, academic, and presenter, David P. Gushee (https://davidpgushee.com).
The Schowalter Singers, a resident choir from Schowalter Villa, will present its fall concert, “Our Journey to Heaven,” Sun., Sept. 8, at 7 p.m., at Whitestone Mennonite Church, 629 Crescent Dr., Hesston. The concert is free and open to the public. Another opportunity to see the concert will be 3 p.m., Wed., Sept. 11, at the Schowalter Villa chapel, 200 W. Hickory, St., Hesston.
DESSERT RECEPTION – SEPTEMBER 22, 2024 Save the Date for the Annual Dessert Reception for Bethel College students September 22 at 6 p.m. This year it will be held ON the Bethel College campus—on a sidewalk going to Haury Hall—just a few feet from the BCMC grounds. Please bring a dessert to share and be willing to engage with students. Chairs will be set up in circles.
Dorothy Unruh turns 103 on September 12, 2024! Send birthday messages and blessings to Dorothy at 1407 Hillcrest Road, Newton, KS 67114.
CHANCEL BELLS NEEDS PLAYERS The Chancel Bells will begin practicing September 5 for our fall music. I need several players to complete the choir. This commitment ideally would be for the entire year, but I can work with a month at a time. We are easy to work with and very forgiving if you are a new player. Please consider making this contribution to the worship of our church. I am excited to begin with some new music and some that hasn’t been done for several years. Our library has many options. Contact Verlene: verlenegarber@gmail.com or 620-217-5266.
LAST CALL–SIGN UP FOR ANABAPTIST WORLD GROUP SUBSCRIPTION Now is the time to renew the BCMC group subscription to Anabaptist World, a monthly magazine featuring voices from across the Anabaptist-Mennonite world. If you sign up with the congregation’s plan, you receive this publication at the discounted rate of $44. If interested in joining the group plan, contact Monica Lichti in the church office as soon as possible. New subscribers can also receive a one-year subscription for the discounted rate of $44. To subscribe email office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org Bring in or mail your $44.00 to the office or place it in the offering plate Sunday. Mark your checks with “Anabaptist World” in the memo line. If you are currently receiving Anabaptist World through the BCMC group subscription plan it will expire Nov. 2024. Anabaptist World would like us to renew the subscription now so that you receive the magazine without interruption.
Community Playschool is gearing up for the start of another school year on September 10. We have 15 children and 8 volunteers lined up to participate in two classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We are offering a HUGE thank you to the youth group and their sponsors for clearing out debris from the perimeter of the playground. This happened on July 6 during their service/learning week. It was brutally hot that day, and they worked tirelessly to clear out several years of leaf clutter that gathers at the fence. We are so grateful to them for this effort! We hope you all can venture down the north hall in the lower level often after September 10 to see signs of our program at work right here at BCMC! — Jeanette Leary and Kasey Newell, co-directors
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
FreedUp: Everence® is offering a new stewardship training program. The FreedUp program is a way for everyone to get their finances in order – and gain a deeper faith perspective on your money. Everence facilitators will lead the sessions. The upcoming option for participants is Mondays at 8 p.m. ET beginning Oct. 7; ending Nov. 18. Register at everence.com/partners.
LET EVERENCE® HELP MAKE MEDICARE AN EASY STEPMedicare Mondays
Join us for an informal conversation about Medicare. We’ll cover the following:Enrollment details and deadlines.Social Security – when do I start?Prescription drug coverage.Plans that supplement Medicare. The webinars will be presented by Everence professionals, and there will be plenty of time for your questions. All webinars held on the second Monday of the month at 2 and 8 p.m. (Eastern Time):September 9October 14November 11 December 9Learn more and register
September and October Webinars from EVERENCE® Finances and You with topics that integrate your faith and finances! This is a free, four-part webinar series where you’ll hear how Everence® can help you make important financial decisions that reflect your faith values. The webinars will be presented by Everence professionals and there will be time for your questions. All webinars held on Wednesdays at 2 and 8 p.m. (Eastern Time) For more information, visit everence.com/national. Or Email: national@everence.com with any questions. · Sept. 11 Seminar: Why give now? 12 strategies to maximize your generosity in 2024. No matter income or age, explore how you can make a difference in the world by stretching the impact of your giving to the missions, ministries and organizations you care about. Presented by: Lyle Miller, Stewardship Consultant & Phil Pratt, Charitable Consultant · Sept. 18 Seminar: Getting our lives together, Giving our lives away, and Giving our deaths away. For those of us interested in integrating our faith with our finances, we often find ourselves focusing on different concerns throughout our lives. Intentionally embracing these unique periods of our lives can encourage growth in our stewardship journey and help form us into the image of Christ. Presented by: Colin Saxton, Stewardship Theologian and Director of Church Relations · Sept. 25 Seminar: Social Security: Understanding your benefits. Come and learn the ins and outs of social security that will provide you clarity as you consider your social security future. Presented by: Steve Lane, AWMA®, CFP®, Financial Consultant · Oct. 2 Seminar: Investing 202. Mutual funds, pensions, stocks, bonds, IRA’s, Roth IRA’s, 401k’s, Real estate. The list seems to go on and on for investment options. This presentation will help you sort through your investment options and other considerations as you explore what investments make sense for you. Presented by: Michael Burton, CFP®, CEPA®, Financial Consultant
Bethel College Announcements: · Sat., Sept. 14 – Duo piano recital: Dr. Christina Liu (Bethel College) and Dr. Brett Janssen (Central Christian College), 4 p.m., Ad Building chapel at Bethel College · SAVE THE DATE: Sunday, Sept. 15, Forum on Democracy and Christianity with David Gushee, Distinguished University Professor of Christian Ethics at Mercer University, 3 p.m., Memorial Hall at Bethel College; sponsored by Bethel College Mennonite Church and the Bethel Department of Bible and Religion. Gushee will also speak in convocation Mon., Sept. 16, 11 a.m., in Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center.
Life Enrichment program at Bethel College for Wednesday, Sept. 4. 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. Sept. 4—9:30 a.m. “Climate Change and Health: Harms and Opportunities,” Dwight Krehbiel, North Newton Sept. 4—10:50 a.m. “STRATACA: One of the Eight Wonders of Kansas,” Rachel Terry, Strataca operation manager, Hutchinson
Bethel College Women’s Association needs your donations of baked goods and craft items! Home-made pies, poppyseed rolls, zwieback, cinnamon rolls, other baked goods and treats for Market-in-the-Round at Fall Festival are welcome. In addition, home-made jams/jellies and craft items are needed. All of these items can be delivered to the Music Library in Luyken Fine Arts Center from 1 – 5 p.m., Fri., Oct. 4. All proceeds will benefit Bethel College. If questions email: bcwa@belthelks.edu Volunteers are needed as well to staff the booths. To sign up, use this link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0E4CA8A72FA3F58-50920044-fall/102465998#/
Camp Mennoscah Announcements
Summer is over and volunteer work days have been adjusted! 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:
Thank you to the many summer youth camp volunteers, both far and near, long-time and new! Camp Mennoscah had a successful summer because of you. 403 campers had the absolute bestest of camp weeks! (If not, we’ll try harder next summer.)See you at Fall Fest on October 5th at Bethel College!
Registration for the Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreats is open! The dates are November 1-3 and November 15-17. Lodging and crafting will be held at Main Camp in the bunkhouses and dining hall. Register here. We’ll see you for another fun weekend!
Annual Meeting is on September 22! Mark your calendars and watch for details.
Tasks to keep Camp Mennoscah running smoothly continue into the fall and winter seasons. Volunteers are needed for grounds and deep cleaning, plus a variety of other things. Contact us at 620-297-3290, 316-293-7313 (text) or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org.
Mennonite Central Committee Announcements MCC immigration-focused learning tour in South Texas, Oct. 6-11: MCC learning tours present a unique opportunity to engage directly with the work done by MCC and partner organizations. The tour will give participants the chance to meet with law enforcement officials from Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), gain insights into the complexity of immigration enforcement, including deportation and apprehensions, and visiting migrant response shelters. The tour will shed light on the challenges faced by migrants on their journey and raise awareness about the asylum process, and conditions faced by displaced and uprooted individuals. Find out more and register for the trip by Sept. 20. Questions, please contact Becky Teiwes, MCC Central States Borderlands Program Coordinator at beckyteiwes@mcc.org.
Join MCC Great Lakes for the Dismukes Project Learning Tour on October 9-13: This learning tour provides a unique experience to learn more about Black history and experiences in the coalfields of Appalachia, while also learning the incredible story of Dr. Henry Dodford Dismukes, an African American physician in the early 1900’s. Participants will visit various sites connected with Dr. Dismukes, hear from local speakers, learn about MCC’s work to preserve Black history in the area and attend the Dismukes Gala featuring John Ellison. Learn more and register at mcc.org/dismukes-learning-tour. Tickets are also available separately for the Dismukes Gala on October 12 at mcc.org/dismukes-gala. Learn more about Dr. Dismukes and the project, including a video and podcast, at mcc.org/dismukes.
Mennonite Disaster Service Announcement
2024 MDS Region 3 Annual Meeting
Join us in Hydro, OK for the 2024 MDS Region 3 Annual Meeting. We are gathering on November 15-17 to hear updates on what MDS is doing around the country and in our region.This isn’t just a business meeting! Our theme is “Spreading the News: Effective (and timely!) communication within your unit.” Plenary sessions and workshops are available to help everyone get involved in the work of MDS.We will worship together, eat together, and have fun together. Nathan Luitjens, Executive Conference Minister of Central Plains Mennonite Conference is speaking Friday evening during worship. The MDS Communications Team is leading several sessions over the weekend. On Saturday evening we will spend our time enjoying each other’s company while also enjoying a fun night of games and entertainment. And the MDS Storm Encounter trailer will be there! We hope to see you there!For more information or to register, go to Region 3 Annual Meeting – Mennonite Disaster Service (mds.org) or contact Region 3 Administrative Assistant Chris Becker at cbecker@mds.org or 717-383-8981.We look forward to gathering together at this year’s MDS Region 3 Annual Meeting.
For Mennonite Men “Engage” press here For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here Mennonite Church USA Announcements
MC USA’s Climate Justice Ministry has selected two recipients and one honoree for the Generation Z Energy and Spirit Challenge. The award winners are Taftsville Chapel Mennonite Fellowship, Taftsville, Vermont, and The Freeman Project, Freeman, South Dakota. Hillcrest Academy, Kalona, Iowa, has received an honorable mention. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/gen-z-energy-spirit-challenge Mennonite Church USA presented Tina Schlabach and Abby Endashaw with the 2024 MC USA Bring the Peace award. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org//btp-2024-award-winners
The MC USA Women in Leadership steering committee gathered in Valley Village, California, on July 16-18, to plan the 2025 Women in Leadership Summit. Open to all women across MC USA, this one-day event will be on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, in Greensboro, North Carolina, immediately preceding the Follow Jesus ’25 convention. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/women-in-leadership-plan
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Today is the Day of Prayer for Creation, promoted by Season of Creation, an ecumenical organization of prayer and action. Mennonite Church USA and Mission Network are members of this global community. Join in lamenting the harm human beings have inflicted on the Earth, and pray that we will discover unity, as we work together as caretakers of God’s creation. Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC Commissions beginning the new program year, and give thanks for new commission members elected at the recent WDC Annual Assembly.
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, AUGUST 25, 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/bVTAA8eiK1g?feature=share
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH August 25, 2024
Christ Candle Lighting
Centering Music—There’s Nothing Worth More [VT 369]–(arr. Rogers)–Meghann Rogers
Welcome & Prayer—Elizabeth Schmidt
*Hymn—What Is This Place—VT 22
Children’s Conversation—Blessing of the Backpacks—Jill Robb
*Hymn—For the Healing of the Nations—VT 705 People with August birthdays come forward for a blessing, please bring a hymnal
*Birthday Blessing and Benediction
Postlude—May You Be Rooted and Grounded [VT 396]–(arr. Rogers) Meghann Rogers
* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Audio visual—Ken Lamp
For our youth to feel supported and loved for the 2024-2025 school year, we will be blessing their backpacks by giving them a tag to remind them they are being prayed over by members of our congregation.
Our backpack blessing for our youth (and adults) will be this Sunday, August 25 during the children’s story. Please have your child(ren) bring their backpack to have our congregation bless their year.
If you have a work bag you would like to be blessed by the congregation, PLEASE bring it with you to church so we can give you a tag for your bag!
— Jill Robb, Faith Formation Coordinator
The Next Week at BCMC: August 25—September 1, 2024 Sunday, August 25, 2024—Blessing of the Backpacks 9:30 a.m. Worship. Jeanette Leary will be the volunteer in the nursery. YouTube Link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/bVTAA8eiK1g?feature=share
Wednesday, August 28, 2024 7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal in the Sanctuary Thursday, August 29, 2024 6 p.m. Hospitality Commission meeting in Fellowship Hall Saturday, August 31, 2024 11 a.m. Memorial Service for Marilyn Stucky in the Sanctuary; Lunch in the Fellowship Hall will follow immediately after the service Sunday, September 1, 2024 9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Joanna Harader Monday, September 2, 2024—Labor Day—Office will be closed; church locked; Tuesday, September 3, 2024—Office will be closed
BCMC ANNOUNCEMENTS
The memorial service for Marilyn Stucky (Marilyn died June 20) will be Sat., Aug. 31, 11 a.m. at BCMC, with a lunch in fellowship hall following the service.
Dorothy Unruh turns 103 on September 12, 2024! Send birthday messages and blessings to Dorothy at 1407 Hillcrest Road, Newton, KS 67114.
The Chancel Bells will begin practicing September 5 for our fall music. But, I need several players to complete the choir. This commitment ideally would be for the entire year, but I can work with a month at a time. We are easy to work with and very forgiving if you are a new player. Please consider making this contribution to the worship of our church. I am excited to get going again with some new music and some that hasn’t been done for several years. Our library has many options. Contact Verlene: verlenegarber@gmail.com or 620-217-5266
If you’ve been a nursery volunteer in the past or would like to become a new nursery volunteer, please notify Sara Dick, new nursery schedule coordinator, at saradick1@gmail.com. The schedule is posted in the nursery and will be updated as folks volunteer. Please notify Sara rather than sign yourself up for shifts directly on the schedule, so she knows where we need helpers and where we’re all set. Thank you for caring for our youngest attenders and their families!
Pastor Joanna will have office hours at the 1887 Cafe in the Schultz Student Center every Thursday morning from ten to noon. She would love for you to stop by for a chat!
We offer sympathy to Pauletta (Stan) Brodhagen and Connie (Rex) Esau on the death of their sister, Patricia Kay Rupp. Patricia died Sun., Aug. 11, in Moundridge. Memorial services were held at Eden Mennonite Church on August 15.
Greetings on behalf of Faith Formation! The Sunday School teaching year will officially begin September 8 and we are in need of teachers and helpers to teach 3 age levels of our youth: pre-k, elementary, and middle school. Sunday School Safe Sanctuary training will be September 1 during the Sunday School time in Fellowship Hall. Even if you are the slightest bit interested, please listen to the call and email Jill Robb at jill@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org
Save the Date: Peace Witness Event, Sept. 15-16 The BCMC Witness Commission is very pleased to announce plans for a peace witness event around Peace Sunday on September 15-16. Our church along with the Bible and Religion Department of Bethel College and in collaboration with area churches invites you to engage with Christianity and Democracy led by well known author, academic, and presenter, David P. Gushee (https://davidpgushee.com).
Community Playschool is gearing up for the start of another school year on September 10. We have 15 children and 8 volunteers lined up to participate in two classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We are offering a HUGE thank you to the youth group and their sponsors for clearing out debris from the perimeter of the playground. This happened on July 6 during their service/learning week. It was brutally hot that day, and they worked tirelessly to clear out several years of leaf clutter that gathers at the fence. We are so grateful to them for this effort! We hope you all can venture down the north hall in the lower level often after September 10 to see signs of our program at work right here at BCMC! — Jeanette Leary and Kasey Newell, co-directors
Looking ahead to November, the Library theme for the next few months will be Religion and Politics. There are books that might help answer questions about our current political climate. A partial display is behind the library desk.
BCMC Offering for Aug. 18, 2024: General Fund $10,075; Kitchen Fund $23.30; Solar Fund $275.
Now is the time to renew the BCMC group subscription to Anabaptist World, a monthly magazine featuring voices from across the Anabaptist-Mennonite world. If you sign up with the congregation’s plan, you receive this publication at the discounted rate of $44. If interested in joining the group plan, contact Monica Lichti in the church office as soon as possible. New subscribers can also receive a one-year subscription for the discounted rate of $44. To subscribe email office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org Bring in or mail your $44.00 to the office or place it in the offering plate Sunday. Mark your checks with “Anabaptist World” in the memo line. If you are currently receiving Anabaptist World through the BCMC group subscription plan it will expire Nov. 2024. Anabaptist World would like us to renew the subscription now so that you receive the magazine without interruption.
The deadline for announcements for the week’s upcoming Sunday’s BCMC bulletin is Thursday morning. It may not be possible to include an announcement if it is received later.
Bethel College Announcements: · Mon., Aug. 26“The Rose Aesthetic,” works by Gwen and Victor Rose, opens in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College (reception Sept. 19). Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m. · Sat., Sept. 14 — Duo piano recital: Dr. Christina Liu (Bethel College) and Dr. Brett Janssen (Central Christian College), 4 p.m., Ad Building chapel at Bethel College · SAVE THE DATE: Sunday, Sept. 15, Forum on Democracy and Christianity with David Gushee, Distinguished University Professor of Christian Ethics at Mercer University, 3 p.m., Memorial Hall at Bethel College; sponsored by Bethel College Mennonite Church and the Bethel Department of Bible and Religion. Gushee will also speak in convocation Mon., Sept. 16, 11 a.m., in Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center.
The Life Enrichment program at Bethel College plans to start up again on Wednesdays from Aug. 28-Nov. 20 this Fall. 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. · Cost: $40 per semester or $4 per week; first-time attendees get a free day · Time: Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m.-11:50 a.m. for two-session dates; Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. for three-session dates · Location: All sessions will be in Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center on the Bethel campus · Lunch cost: $7 full meal; $5 soup/salad/dessert. Please purchase tickets for lunch by 10:30 a.m. with cash, or check payable to “Aladdin Foods.” August 28—9:30 a.m. “The Case for a Mennonite Work College,” Jon C. Gering, president, Bethel College August 28—10:50 a.m. “The Harvey Girls: Women’s Roses in Railroads, Kansas and U.S. History,” Dr. Michaeline Chance-Reay, professor emeritus of women’s studies and education, Kansas State University, Manhattan
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
We’re just a few weeks away from the Western District Women in Mission Women’s & Girls’ Retreat on September 7-8 at Camp Mennoscah with our theme of Peaceful Practices. Registrations are due by August 30. The retreat brochure and registration form are on our website at this link: https://www.westerndistrictwomeninmission.org/events If you plan to come Saturday morning to tie comforters, please remember that lunch is not provided, so bring a sack lunch. Questions? Send an e-mail to westerndistrictwomen@gmail.com.
OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS
FreedUp: Everence® is offering a new stewardship training program. The FreedUp program is a way for everyone to get their finances in order – and gain a deeper faith perspective on your money. Everence facilitators will lead the sessions. The upcoming option for participants is Mondays at 8 p.m. ET beginning Oct. 7; ending Nov. 18. Register at everence.com/partners.
SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER WEBINARS FROM EVERENCE® Finances and You! Discover topics that integrate your faith and finances!Don’t miss this free, four-part webinar series. You’ll hear how Everence® can help you make important financial decisions that reflect your faith values.The webinars will be presented by Everence professionals and there will be plenty of time for your questions.All webinars held on Wednesdays at 2:00 and 8:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)Learn more and registerSEPTEMBER 11 Why give now? 12 strategies to maximize your generosity in 2024.No matter your income or age, explore how you can make a difference in the world by stretching the impact of your giving to the missions, ministries and organizations you care about.Presented by:Lyle Miller, Stewardship Consultant & Phil Pratt, Charitable Consultant SEPTEMBER 18 Getting our lives together, Giving our lives away, and Giving our deaths away.For those of us interested in integrating our faith with our finances, we often find ourselves focusing on different concerns throughout our lives. Intentionally embracing these unique periods of our lives can encourage growth in our stewardship journey and help form us into the image of Christ. Presented by:Colin Saxton, Stewardship Theologian and Director of Church Relations SEPTEMBER 25 Social Security: Understanding your benefitsDoes the thought of figuring out social security make you want to curl up in a ball and cry? Well, help is on the way. Come and learn the in’s and out’s of social security that will provide you clarity as you consider your social security future.Presented by:Steve Lane, AWMA®, CFP®, Financial Consultant OCTOBER 2 Investing 202Mutual funds, pensions, stocks, bonds, IRA’s, Roth IRA’s, 401k’s, Real estate- this list seems to go on and on and on for investment options. This presentation will help you sort through your investment options and other considerations as you explore what investments make sense for you.Presented by:Michael Burton, CFP®, CEPA®, Financial ConsultantFor more information, visit everence.com/national. Please email national@everence.com with any questions.
Et Cetera Shop Volunteer Experience Do you want to expand your social circle? Do you want to make new friends? Do you want to be a part of a mission that serves our local communities and the world? Then join us for our Volunteer Experience Sat., Aug. 31 from 9-11 a.m., as we explore the mission and vision of the Newton Et Cetera Shop! We will journey through the history of the shop, our current vision, the work of our volunteers, and how you might become a part of this vital mission in our community! This event is open to all!
Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp Announcements LABOR DAY WORK & PLAY RETREAT – If you, your family or a group of friends want to enjoy the holiday weekend at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp, there are 16 spaces available to register. The weekend is offered as a day of work and play (Sat. or Sun.) with a Monday morning sendoff after breakfast. This year (August 30-September 2, 2024), we’ll be serving (foodservice & HK) along with additional work projects in preparing our facilities/grounds for the coming winter.
MDS FIRE, HAZARD & DISASTER MITIGATION – On October 8-12, 2024, Mennonite Disaster Service and Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp will continue their critical partnership in the work of forest thinning, chipping slash and moving/removing logs. A desire for 10 or more volunteers are needed each day to accomplish the tasks at hand. Volunteers for foodservice are also encouraged and welcomed to help in support of the week’s efforts. Please visit the volunteer page at www.rmmc.organd select “MDS FIRE MITIGATION & TREE THINNING & LIMBING” or “VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES & SIGN-UP” (foodservice) to register for the week or for the days you are able to come.
For Mennonite World Conference “Info” press here Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here Mennonite Disaster Service “On the Level” press here Mennonite Men Webinar “Living outside the—Man Box” press here Mennonite Mission Network “News from around the world” press here
Mennonite Church USA Announcements
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
Menno Snapshots
Steve Griffin, the pastor of Bellwood Mennonite Church, Milford, Nebraska, chronicles his journey from leaving the Pentecostal church to Calvinism and to finally finding his home in Anabaptism. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/pentecostalism-to-anabaptism
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for the 25 congregations that make up Colombia Mennonite Church (IMCOL). Pray that IMCOL will realize its goals of strengthening its Anabaptist identity and organizational capacity.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: As the sun sets on another day, let’s welcome the gift and blessing of tomorrow. Let’s pray and be thankful for the opportunities to build relationships and share the love of Christ. Let’s pray for resolve and encouragement along with perseverance to keep trying. Let’s pray for our leaders and those called and willing to church plant and support church planting across WDC. Let’s be thankful for a new day! -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, AUGUST 18, 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/YCmTrnD5WVU?feature=share
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH August 18, 2024 Thirteenth Sunday After Pentecost
Christ Candle Lighting
Centering Music—Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing (arr. Lau)– Will Wiebe-Friesen
Welcome & Prayer—Adam Robb
*Hymn—Be Thou My Vision—VT 549
Children’s Conversation—Esther Koontz
Worship Music—Lead me Lord (Wesley) Chancel Choir; Joel Garber, director; Will-Wiebe Friesen, accompanist
*Hymn—Come and Seek the Way of WisdomI—VT 196
Scripture Reading—1 Kings 3:3-14; Mark 10:35-45—Jeanette Stucky and Coralee Shenk
Sermon—The Glory of a Heart that Listens Joanna Harader
*Hymn—Will You Let Me Be Your Servant—VT 778
Prayers of God’s People—Adam Robb
*Hymn—God of Grace and God of Glory—VT 716
*Benediction
Postlude–Wer nur den lieben Gott lässt walten (JS Bach)
* You are invited to stand VT—Voices Together Audio visual—Francis Toews
The Next Week at BCMC: August 18—25, 2024 Sunday, August 18, 2024—Welcome to Joanna Harader 9:30 a.m. Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/YCmTrnD5WVU?feature=share Wednesday, August 21, 2024 9 a.m. Women’s Fellowship Executive Board meeting in Room 14 7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal in the Sanctuary Thursday, August 22, 2024 4 p.m. Witness Commission meeting in Room 14 7 p.m. Deacon Commission meeting in Room 14 Sunday, August 25, 2024—Blessing of the Backpacks 9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz 4 p.m. Newton Community Children’s Choir parents’ meeting in sanctuary
A reminder that the next Women’s Fellowship Executive Board meeting will be Wednesday, August 21 at 9 a.m.
Pastor Joanna will have office hours at the 1887 Cafe in the Schultz Student Center every Thursday morning from ten to noon. She would love for you to stop by for a chat!
The memorial service for Marilyn Stucky (Marilyn died June 20) will be Sat., Aug. 31, 11 a.m. at BCMC, with a lunch in fellowship hall following the service.
BCMC Offering for Aug. 11, 2024: General Fund $7,502; Mennonite Central Committee $200; Sr Hi Youth $200; Kitchen Fund $10; Solar Fund $80.
The Chancel Bells will begin practicing September 5 for our fall music. But, I need several players to complete the choir. This commitment ideally would be for the entire year, but I can work with a month at a time. We are easy to work with and very forgiving if you are a new player. Please consider making this contribution to the worship of our church. I am excited to get going again with some new music and some that hasn’t been done for several years. Our library has many options. Contact Verlene: verlenegarber@gmail.com or 620-217-5266
If you’ve been a nursery volunteer in the past or would like to become a new nursery volunteer, please notify Sara Dick, new nursery schedule coordinator, at saradick1@gmail.com. The schedule is posted in the nursery and will be updated as folks volunteer. Please notify Sara rather than sign yourself up for shifts directly on the schedule, so she knows where we need helpers and where we’re all set. Thank you for caring for our youngest attenders and their families!
Greetings on behalf of Faith Formation! The Sunday School teaching year will officially begin September 8 and we are in need of teachers and helpers to teach 3 age levels of our youth: pre-k, elementary, and middle school. Sunday School Safe Sanctuary training will be September 1 during the Sunday School time in Fellowship Hall. Even if you are the slightest bit interested, please listen to the call and email Jill Robb at jill@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org
We offer sympathy to the family of Monica Gross. Monica died August 15 at Kidron Bethel Village Health Care. Please remember in your prayers Monica’s daughters Cheryl Britsch and Camille Tantibanchachai and their families. The date and time for the memorial service will be announced soon.
Save the Date: Peace Witness Event, Sept. 15-16 The BCMC Witness Commission is very pleased to announce plans for a peace witness event around Peace Sunday on September 15-16. Our church along with the Bible and Religion Department of Bethel College and in collaboration with area churches invites you to engage with Christianity and Democracy led by well known author, academic, and presenter, David P. Gushee (https://davidpgushee.com).
The 2024 issue of Bethel College’s online journal Mennonite Life can now be viewed at ml.bethelks.edu The issue includes articles by Rod Ratzlaff, Mark Jantzen and Rachel Pannabecker related to the 150th anniversary of Mennonite immigration to North America from the Russian Empire, as well as the text from last spring’s Bible Lectures by César García and Sandra Báez, several other articles, and book reviews.
Last Call for those who subscribe to the devotional Rejoice through the BCMC group subscription. The last issue of Rejoice (Sept.-Oct.-Nov.) is in your mailboxes or in the mail. Therefore, it is time to renew for the coming year. The bulk subscription price is $35.93. The devotional is mailed to BCMC and your copy will be either placed in your mailbox here at church, or mailed to you. If you wish to subscribe (even if you have not subscribed before) place your check in the offering plate or bring or mail to the office with “Rejoice subscription” in the memo line.
Now is the time to renew the BCMC group subscription to Anabaptist World, a monthly magazine featuring voices from across the Anabaptist-Mennonite world. If you sign up with the congregation’s plan, you receive this publication at the discounted rate of $44. If interested in joining the group plan, contact Monica Lichti in the church office as soon as possible. New subscribers can also receive a one-year subscription for the discounted rate of $44. To subscribe email office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org Bring in or mail your $44.00 to the office or place it in the offering plate Sunday. Mark your checks with “Anabaptist World” in the memo line. If you are currently receiving Anabaptist World through the BCMC group subscription plan it will expire Nov. 2024. Anabaptist World would like us to renew the subscription now so that you receive the magazine without interruption.
Dear BCMC congregation: The Solar Panel committee would like to bring you an update on our solar project. 1. About our pledges: a. A total of $192,180 has been pledged — that is enough to pay for the entire project! A big thank you to BCMC! We are overwhelmed by your generosity! b. To date $150,609.86 of the pledges have been received! c. The remaining $41,109.14 pledges are expected to be received over the remaining pledge period for the years 2025 and 2026. 2. To follow the solar panels “at work”: a. there is a link you can access to follow “minute by minute” how the solar collectors convert solar energy into electricity: Use the following link: https://monitoringpublic.solaredge.com/solaredge-web/p/site/public?name=BCMC#/dashboard b. This link will be available on the BCMC website in the near future. c. Look at the bulletin boards in the Gathering Space for a large printout of the solar panels at work. Look for regular updates of these graphs. d. Check out the solar equipment at ground level on the east side of the church. The “humming” you hear indicates that the inverters are at work. 3. The application for the 30% Federal Energy grant is in process. Applications for this energy grant can only be applied for once the project is finished. For BCMC the application will be processed in the next Federal tax cycle of 2025. The grant amount comes to about $58,000. 4. If you have questions concerning the BCMC Solar Panel project, please contact any member of our committee: Dwight Krehbiel, Margaret Toews, Lorna Harder and Hugo Boschmann
Looking ahead to November, the Library theme for the next few months will be Religion and Politics. We’ve pulled some books that might help answer questions about our current political climate. A partial display is behind the library desk.
Volunteer opportunity: The next volunteer training session for New Hope Shelter is on Monday, August 19th at 7:30 pm. BCMC is one of 24 area congregations regularly providing volunteers to New Hope, and about five times a year we fill a week’s worth of evening slots in coordination with Faith Mennonite Church. Volunteers provide food for an evening meal or spend time at the shelter with the residents, along with an on-site staff supervisor. More help is always welcomed, and can be regular or occasional. If you’d like to learn about the work of New Hope or consider volunteering, please plan to attend the August 19 session at 308 South Meridian Road, Newton, KS. New Hope serves homeless men, women, and children from Harvey, Butler, Marion, and McPherson counties. -Cynthia Linscheid
FreedUp: Everence® is offering a new stewardship training program. The FreedUp program is a way for everyone to get their finances in order – and gain a deeper faith perspective on your money. Everence facilitators will lead the group sessions, including the first get-acquainted session. There are two upcoming options for participants to choose from: · Tuesdays at 2 p.m. ET beginning Aug. 20; ending Oct. 1 or · Mondays at 8 p.m. ET beginning Oct. 7; ending Nov. 18. Register at everence.com/partners.
We’re just a few weeks away from the Western District Women in Mission Women’s & Girls’ Retreat on September 7-8 at Camp Mennoscah with our theme of Peaceful Practices. Registrations are due by August 30. The retreat brochure and registration form are on our website at this link: https://www.westerndistrictwomeninmission.org/events If you plan to come Saturday morning to tie comforters, please remember that lunch is not provided, so bring a sack lunch. Questions? Send an e-mail to westerndistrictwomen@gmail.com.
Bethel College Announcements: · Sun., Aug. 18 – Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum, 3 p.m., with Lorna Harder, professor emeritus of biology at Hesston College and former curator of natural history at Kauffman Museum, on the 40th anniversary of the museum’s tallgrass prairie reconstruction; museum auditorium (corner of Main & 27th streets, North Newton). · SAVE THE DATE: Sunday, Sept. 15, Forum on Democracy and Christianity with David Gushee, Distinguished University Professor of Christian Ethics at Mercer University, 3 p.m., Memorial Hall at Bethel College; sponsored by Bethel College Mennonite Church and the Bethel Department of Bible and Religion. Gushee will also speak in convocation Mon., Sept. 16, 11 a.m., in Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center.
It’s almost here – 150th celebration on August 23-25, at Eden Mennonite Church. Throughout the last year we have celebrated with Zwingli movie, Ukraine speaker, Quilt show, plowing and planting with horses and binding and shocking wheat, Jerry Juhnke talking about genealogy, the historical drama, unveiling the memorial sculpture by Ann Zerger and Chip Parker, and now comes more to enjoy: seminars, Readers’ Theater, poppyseed break, threshing Red Turkey wheat, ethnic supper, entertainment. Children’s activities. We still have t- shirts and mugs and books for you to remember the weekend. And lots of meeting new and old friends under the banner of “Schweitzers AND Friends.” Better register now. All the events will be recorded and put on the www.swissmennonite.org website so you can see anything you missed. I can’t wait. See you there. – Kathy Goering
Saturday, Aug. 24, will be the final Schweitzers & Friends 150th celebration Pioneer Event with a demonstration of threshing and milling of Turkey Red Hard Winter Wheat which was raised using horse drawn and vintage equipment, just west of the Moundridge Museum complex. We will be using a McCormick-Deering threshing machine powered by an antique tractor to thresh the bundles of Turkey Red we bound and shocked back on June first. There will also be an 1874 grist mill, milling demonstration providing a unique opportunity to have Turkey Red wheat flour available for purchase. Along with the threshing and milling events, Vintage Farm Equipment, with some of the great machines of the past, will be on display all day. These events will start with the farm equipment display beginning at 9 a.m., just west of the Moundridge Museum Complex. We will be setting up the threshing and milling demonstration all morning with our official start at 3 p.m. There will be limited bleacher seating and concessions (including K3 Creamery) available to help you enjoy these unique pioneer events and celebrate the 150th Schweitzers & Friends anniversary celebration. The whole community is invited to join us! —Glen Goering
A Message from the Mennonite Central Committee Peace & Justice Ministries
Dear Bethel College Mennonite,Apache Stronghold invites you to join in a journey of prayer to save the Apache sacred land of Oak Flat, or Chi’chil Bildagoteel,from copper mining. The proposed mine would cause the sacred land to collapse, leaving a crater more than 1,000 feet deep and two miles wide. Apache Stronghold invites others to join on this prayer journey to “stop the shattering of the human existence and to protect Mother Earth.” On July 13, Apache Stronghold began the prayer journey with the Lummi Nation in Washington state. They are traveling across the U.S., visiting with Indigenous supporters and spiritual leaders for prayer and ceremony in 20 locations before reaching Washington, D.C. Apache Stronghold will gather for a final prayer vigil on September 11 at the U.S. Supreme Court, to be held in conjunction with the filing of their appeal against Resolution Copper. You can support the prayer journey in the following ways: Keep Apache Stronghold in your prayers.Sign the petition to support Apache Stronghold in their quest for justice.Write to your members of Congress and urge them to save Oak Flat.Join in person at points along the prayer journey. You can follow Apache Stronghold on Instagram @protectoakflat for more details or connect with them via email.Come to Washington, D.C., for events with Apache leaders from September 8-10, and the final prayer vigil on September 11.
In peace and solidarity, Daniela Lázaro-Manalo Racial Equity Advocacy and Education Coordinator Kirstin De Mello Climate Advocacy and Education Coordinator National Peace & Justice Ministries MCC U.S.
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.
From Mennonite Church USA 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
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Ben and Laurel Woodward-Breckbill, who are preparing to serve as directors of the Paris (France) Mennonite Center. Pray that God and God’s people will provide all the necessary resources, so that the Woodward-Breckbill family can begin ministry this month.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for WDC church communities observing the 150th anniversary of Mennonites coming to Kansas and Nebraska. Pray for God’s wisdom, both as we celebrate the gifts of the past and as we pursue paths for healing the harm and injustice that is also part of our story as Mennonites.
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.
Our backpack blessing for our youth (and adults) will be this Sunday, August 25 during the children’s story. Please have your child(ren) bring their backpack to have our congregation bless their year.
The Chancel Bells will begin practicing September 5 for our fall music. But, I need several players to complete the choir. This commitment ideally would be for the entire year, but I can work with a month at a time. We are easy to work with and very forgiving if you are a new player. Please consider making this contribution to the worship of our church. I am excited to get going again with some new music and some that hasn’t been done for several years. Our library has many options. Contact Verlene: