Category Archives: Announcements

Worship Service and Announcements at BCMC–2026 05 10

Memorial Gathering for Don Harrold

Donald Harrold, a long-time member of Bethel College Mennonite Church, died on Saturday, April 25. All are welcome to an informal celebration of life and time of sharing in the BCMC Fellowship Hall
on Saturday, May 9 from 2-4. This is a come-and-go event but there will be structured sharing at 3. Please come and enjoy this time of fellowship as we grieve Don’s passing and remember and celebrate his life.

Saturday – Concert Choir Europe Tour Send-off Concert, 7 p.m., Bethel College Mennonite Church

Sunday, May 10, 2026 BCMC hosts the Bethel College Baccalaureate.

Sunday, May 10, 2026–Bethel College Baccalaureate

Livestream Link for the service:

https://www.youtube.com/live/pbBNgNfseTI?si=T1J5NAxuTM94Z9Zj
9:30 a.m. Prelude by Open Road and Woven
10 a.m. Baccalaureate
5:30 p.m. Private Graduation Party in Fellowship Hall

BCMC Announcements

The week ahead at BCMC – May 11 – 17, 2026

Tuesday, May 12, 2026

11 a.m. Poems and Prayers Group—Chapel
Monica Lichti will be on vacation from May 12 to May 20

Wednesday, May 13, 2026

6 p.m. Open Table–Fellowship Hall

Thursday, May 14, 2026

12 noon Community Playschool End of the year Appreciation Lunch–Fellowship Hall
4 p.m. Worship Commission–Room 14

Saturday, May 16, 2026

1:30 p.m. Inurnment Service for Merrill Raber–BCMC Columbarium

Sunday, May 17, 2026—Ascension Sunday

9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz; music by Gabby and Jake Robb

BCMC Offering for May 3: Gen. Fund $12,501.61; Library Reserve Fund $15; Kitchen Fund $36; Solar Fund $50; Adult Choir Fund $258.

Joanna will have her final Cafe hours for this semester on Thursday, May 14, from 10:30-12:30. Please reach out if you’d like to schedule a time to meet with her over the summer months!

Sympathy Notice

We offer sympathy to the family of Marles Preheim. Marles died, May 5, 2026, at Kidron Bethel Village. Please remember in prayer his family, daughters Kay (Bradley) Siebert, Terri (Gregory) Gaeddert, and son Brian (Cynthia) Preheim and their extended families. Also remember grandson Joel, Crystal, Collin and Brett Gaeddert, and sister-in-law Mildred Voran. Memorial service plans are pending.

Pastors Nathan and Joanna are leading the faith exploration session May 20, 7 p.m. with the high school youth during Wednesday night youth group. Our church retreat and baptism at Camp Mennoscah has been moved from its usual time in May to Aug. 30.

Worship Service and Announcements at BCMC–2026 05 03

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH

WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
May 3, 2026

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 for Sunday, May 3:

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/IgkxD2y0ep0?feature=share

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
May 3, 2026
Prayers for Peace

Christ Candle Lighting

Centering Music—Master Tallis’s Testament (Herbert Howells)—Will Wiebe-Friesen

Land Acknowledgement & Welcome—Dorothy Nickel Friesen

*Hymn—God of Grace and God of Glory—VT 716

Children and Youth Conversation

Worship Music—Lucy Burch, flute

Scripture Reading—2 Kings 6:8-23—Jim Robb

*Hymn—This Is My Song—VT 710

Sermon—Fighting and Feasting—Joanna Harader

*Hymn—My Soul Cries Out—VT 412

Senior Recognition—Maisie Brubacher and Emma Gering

Receiving the Offering and Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Dona nobis pacem—VT 707–Lucy Burch and Annabelle Francouer, flutes

*Charge and Benediction

Postlude—Let There Be Peace on Earth (arr. Wiebe-Friesen)

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Keyboard—Will Wiebe-Friesen
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:
Educate yourself about the tragedy of Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP). Read Laurie Dove’s MASK OF THE DEER WOMAN. Join Kansas Repair Communities. Next meeting is at Faith Mennonite Church, 5:30 p.m., May 11.

Music Note from Will Wiebe-Friesen
Master Tallis’s Testament was composed in 1940 by English composer Herbert Howells. Inspired by Vaughn Williams’ Fantasia on a Theme of Thomas Tallis, it is an homage to the Tudor composer Thomas Tallis. Voices Together contains two hymn tunes by Tallis, which you can find at VT 326 and 505. Master Tallis’s Testament was composed in the eve of World War II, which I think comes through in the sorrowful tone and climactic build in tension. The whisper-quiet closing offers comfort after the roaring full organ climax. This piece is a good introduction to the opening hymn, God of Grace and God of Glory. The tune CWM RHONDDA, which is named for a valley in Wales, was composed by a contemporary of Howells, with the text used today by an America pastor, Harry Emerson Fosdick. Fosdick wrote the text for the dedication of Riverside Church in NYC, and the text reflects the era he lived in–World War I was in the recent past, the Great Depression was brewing, and tensions in Europe were building. Both of these are calls for peace during tumultuous times.

The Week at BCMC: May 3—10, 2026
Sunday, May 3, 2026
9:30 a.m.    Worship with sermon by Joanna Harader; music by Lucy Burch
YouTube Link for the worship service:
https://youtube.com/live/IgkxD2y0ep0?feature=share

Tuesday, May 5, 2026
11 a.m.                 Poems and Prayers Group—Chapel
1—3:30 p.m.       Bethel College choir setup for recording—Sanctuary
3:30—5:30 p.m. Bethel College choir recording—Sanctuary
Thursday, May 7, 2026
Noon—3:30 p.m. Bethel College choir recording—Sanctuary
7 p.m.                     Church Board—Room 14
7 p.m.                     Senior High Youth Group Faith Exploration—Room 24
Friday, May 8, 2026
Noon—4:30 p.m. Bethel College choir recording—Sanctuary
Saturday, May 9, 2026
2-4 p.m.   Memorial Reception for Don Harrold—Fellowship Hall
7 p.m.       Bethel College Concert Choir Europe Tour Send-off Concert—
                  Sanctuary
Sunday, May 10, 2026—Bethel College Baccalaureate
9:30 a.m.    Prelude by Bethel College’s Open Road and Woven
10 a.m.       Baccalaureate Service in the Sanctuary
5:30 p.m.   Private Graduation Party in Fellowship Hall

On Wednesday, April 29, BCMC hosted a Conscientious Objector Information Night for area high school and college-age youth. By our best count, 29 young people began the process of creating a CO file! Several attendees spent time filling out their Peacemaker Registration Forms and sent copies to MCC and their churches. (BCMC now has four on file.) People came from as far as Salina, and people from Church of the Brethren and Mennonite Brethren churches participated as well. Folders with information from the event are available in the church office. Feel free to contact Pastor Joanna with any questions or if you would like to receive the material via email.

Pastors Nathan and Joanna are leading the faith exploration session May 20, 7 p.m. with the high school youth during Wednesday night youth group . Our church retreat and baptism at Camp Mennoscah has been moved from its usual time in May to Aug. 30.

Memorial Gathering for Don Harrold

Donald Harrold, a long-time member of Bethel College Mennonite Church, died on Saturday, April 25. All are welcome to an informal celebration of life and time of sharing in the BCMC fellowship hall on Saturday, May 9 from 2-4. This is a come-and-go event but there will be structured sharing at 3. Please come and enjoy this time of fellowship as we grieve Don’s passing and remember and celebrate his life.

The Sprunger family thanks everyone who participated in Aldine’s card shower. We had hoped she would receive 90 cards, but thanks to everyone’s support, she ended up with well over 100. The electronic greetings and cards were a welcome surprise for her 90th birthday. There will be a public reception for Aldine on June 28, to which you are all invited.

From the Finance committee
As the 1st quarter of the financial year of our church ends, we offer gratitude for the generosity shared in donating monetary offerings toward our annual budget. Each gift is important to the process of fulfilling our mission. A brief BCMC financial report of the general fund income and expenses on March 31, 2026 (25% of the year) is listed below.
Total income $ 103,161 18% of budget
Total expense $ 131,979 23% of budget
Net income/expense -$ 28,817

BCMC Offering for Apr. 26: Gen. Fund $17,315.34; MCC Meat Canning $500; Plant Fund $50; Kitchen Fund $15; Women’s Fellowship $658; Al Penner Mem. $50; Bethel College Scholarship Fund $25.

The Bethel College Board of Directors invites you to a reception honoring Dr. Jon and Deborah Gering for their dedicated service to the College. As Bethel’s 15th president, Dr. Gering has led with vision and purpose, achieving an impressive array of accomplishments that have positioned the College for continued growth and success. We are grateful for the enthusiasm and tireless commitment he and Deborah have shared with the Bethel community. Please join us as we celebrate their legacy and leadership, Wednesday, May 6, 3–6 p.m. (Remarks at 4:30 p.m.) in the 1887 Café in the Schultz Student Center.
If you wish to send a personal note of appreciation and/or well wishes to Jon and Deborah, please submit your message to Rosa Barrera, Assistant to the President, by May 1. Submission options include: Email: rbarrera@bethelks.edu
Mail: Office of the President, Bethel College, 300 East 27th Street, North Newton, KS 67117
In person: Administration Building, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Vacation Bible School (VBS) will be Tuesday-Friday evenings May 26-29 from 5-7:30 p.m. at Bethel College Mennonite Church and May 31 Worship at 10 a.m. (in Athletic Park). Evening VBS is for any and all children who have just completed Preschool (Age 4) through 4th grade. VBS will conclude with a Sunday morning worship on May 31 for ALL ages beginning at 10 a.m. in Athletic Park (700 W 1st St, Newton), immediately followed by games & crafts, fellowship and a potluck lunch. Please register your child/ren online by May 4th using this link (or scan the QR code): https://forms.gle/8A7mo7dBEDuhSQ8a6 VBS is a joint venture of Bethel College Mennonite Church, Faith Mennonite Church, First Mennonite Church, Iglesia Menonita Casa Betania, New Creation Fellowship Church, and Shalom Mennonite Church.
Adults can join the fun! VBS volunteer forms are available at the back of the sanctuary. Please contact Jill Robb or Joanna Harader for more information.

Bethel College Announcements: (Krehbiel Auditorium and the Regier Art Gallery are in the Luyken Fine Arts Center)
Sun., May 3: Bethel College Masterworks Concert, 4 p.m.: Haydn’s The Creation, with mass choir, orchestra and soloists, and including presentation of the Erwin C. and Verna Kaufman Goering Music Award to Dr. Barbara Fast.; Memorial Hall
· Fri., May 8: Artist reception for Tre August, Nick Collins, Yuretzi Licea and Senior Art Exhibit II, 7-8 p.m., Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m. This week is the last chance to see the exhibit.
· Bethel College commencement weekend is Fri.-Sun., May 8-10.
EVENTS: Friday – Senior Art Exhibit reception, 7-8 p.m., Regier Gallery;
Saturday – Nurse Pinning Ceremony, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center;
Saturday: Concert Choir Europe Tour Send-off Concert, 7 p.m., Bethel College Mennonite Church;
Sunday: Baccalaureate, 10 a.m., Bethel College Mennonite Church;
Commencement, 4 p.m., Memorial Hall.

Hesston College Announcements
· Commencement Weekend 2026 will be celebrated at Hesston College May 15 and 16. Weekend activities include a theatre showcase, student recitals, nursing pinning ceremony, commencement ceremony and much more. For information and full schedule of activities visit hesston.edu/commencement.
· Music and Memories: A concert celebrating Ken Rodgers’ four decades at Hesston College: Plan to join the Hesston College community Friday, May 15 at 7 p.m. at Hesston Mennonite Church for this special celebration. The evening will feature music by Bel Canto Singers, organ and piano selections and congregational singing, along with reflections from Ken on his years at the college. All are welcome to attend this special celebration. For more information, visit hesston.edu/ken-rodgers.
· Hesston College will host the annual Lark Open golf tournament on Sat., May 30, at Hesston Golf Park. Check-in is at 7:30 a.m. for the four-person scramble event with a shotgun start at 8 a.m. The tournament features many team and individual prizes, hole-in-one prizes and raffle prizes. For more information visit hesston.edu/lark-open-info. The deadline to register is May 27.

Bluestem Communities hosts a summer Jr. Volunteer Program at Kidron Bethel Village and Schowalter Villa for youth ages 12 to 17. Spend your summer making intergenerational connections and serving seniors. The program runs from June 1 to July 24 on a flexible schedule that meets volunteer needs. Application is required and must be submitted by May 8. To receive an application, contact Volunteer@bluestem.org or 316-836-4821.

Mennonite Central Committee Relief Sale Celebration: Join us for a special evening of fellowship and gratitude Fri., June 5, 6 p.m., at the Maynard Knepp and Carol Duerksen Farm, 1582 Falcon, Hillsboro, as we celebrate the Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale! This celebration is a reflection on a very successful decade for KMRS. An Appreciation Dinner will be provided at no cost for all who volunteered, attended, and supported the Sale. Enjoy an evening of music and a special presentation to MCC. Please bring lawn chairs and RSVP to Barb at 620-543-6863 (call/text) or bj.reeves@live.com by May 18. We look forward to celebrating with you!

Camp Mennoscah, 9458 SE 40th St, Murdock, KS, 67111, is seeking a bookkeeper/reservation specialist. Experience with accounting/bookkeeping and general office duties is preferred. Must have good phone, people and email skills, along with strong organization. This position has potential to be part-or full-time. Candidate will also need to be able to pass a background check and have transportation to camp property. Some remote work could be available. If interested, send inquiries and resume to Olivia Bartel, olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
For Anabaptist Disabilities Network press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
For Mennonite Men “Engage” press here
For Mennonite World Conference “Info” press here

Mennonite Voluntary Service Live out your faith through service! Mennonite Voluntary Service (MVS) is now accepting applications for the 2026-27 term. This one-year volunteer experience is open to individuals age 20+, with the option to extend placements for an additional one to two years.Serve with organizations addressing critical community needs, such as health, education, immigration and more. You won’t do it alone, though! By living with peers in a unit house and growing with a local faith community, MVSers join in the global movement to work for peace and a more just world. Ready to jump in? Go to MennoniteMission.net/MVS to learn more and apply.Placements are available in the following locations: Alamosa, Colorado; Chicago, Illinois; San Francisco, California; and Tucson, Arizona.

From Mennonite Church USA
“If the church can learn to stand in solidarity with communities in their most vulnerable places, not as saviors, but as siblings, then there is hope,” wrote Pedro A. Ramos-Goycolea, pastor of Shalom Mennonite Fellowship in Tucson, Arizona, reflecting on his experience at MC USA’s 2026 Hope for the Future gathering. Read his Menno Snapshots blog, “Faith that multiplies,” here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/faith-that-multiplies/

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Austin Roberts has successfully completed his final revision to his dissertation and has returned to work at Youth With A Mission in Rostrevor, Northern Ireland. Pray for him as he discerns what this new phase of life will look like. Pray also that his application for British citizenship will be approved.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for the WDC Annual Assembly planning team, as it prepares creative ways for us to join in “Becoming God’s People,” the theme of our conference gathering August 7-9 hosted by Iglesia Luz del Evangelio in Dallas, TX

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, immigration status, gender identity,
sexual orientation, ability, economic status, marital status, or age.

Worship Service and Announcements at BCMC–2026 04 26

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
April 26, 2026

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 for Sunday, April 26:

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
April 26, 2026
Fourth Sunday of Easter

Christ Candle Lighting

Centering Music—Kyrie from “Memorial” (René Clausen)
                   Chancel Choir; Joel Garber, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist

Welcome & Prayer—Raylene Hinz-Penner

*Hymn—Summoned by the God Who Made Us—VT 1

Children and Youth Conversation—Esther Koontz

Worship Music—Hope of the World (arr.Carl Stapin)–Chancel Choir

Scripture Reading—Matthew 5:21-26—Dale Schrag

*Hymn—Gentle God, When We Are Driven—VT 150

Sermon—Leaving Our Gifts at the Altar—Rev. Dr. B. Cayce Ramey

*Hymn—Beloved, God’s Chosen—VT 164

Offering Invitation & Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Go Now in Peace, Worship Continues—VT 829
(Those with April birthdays please come forward during the hymn to receive your blessing)

*Birthday Blessing & Benediction—Nathan Koontz

Choral Benediction–The Lord Bless You and Keep You (Lutkin) [VT 846]

Postlude–Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing (arr. R. Lau)–Will Wiebe-Friesen

*You are invited to stand

VT—Voices Together
Keyboard—Will Wiebe=Friesen
Audio visual—Ben Lichti

Welcome Rev. Dr. B Cayce Ramey. Rev. Dr. Ramey facilitated the “Moving Toward Right Relations” held at BCMC this past Friday and Saturday. He is the Training Coordinator for the Coalition to Dismantle the Doctrine of Discovery. He co-founded Racial Heresy with the Rev. Jabriel Ballentine, a ministry and podcast that challenges white supremacy and helps communities step into truth-telling and repair. Living on the homelands of the Piscataway people in Northern Virginia, Cayce leads pilgrimages to Ghana’s enslaver castles, where his own journey was transformed, and works with leaders across the U.S. to grow as change-makers for racial justice in the Church. An Episcopal priest, Cayce was charged with heresy for his public work on reparations and racial justice—an experience that deepened his commitment to embodying the Gospel’s call to justice. Before his ordination, he served as a Marine Corps officer, deploying in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He holds degrees from MIT, Virginia Theological Seminary, and Virginia Union University, where he earned a DMin studying sacramental theology and transatlantic slavery. Cayce is a writer, teacher, photographer, cyclist, husband, father, son, godfather, and friend. He co-hosts a podcast on racism and the Church and helps leaders use systems-focused tools to guide change in their own communities.

Sunday’s worship service includes two choral anthems with deep meanings. The text of Kyrie by René Clausen is derived from the mass and is a plea for God’s mercy on this world. This anthem is extracted from Calusen’s major work “Memorial,” written in tribute to the victims of the September 11 attacks and all victims of violence. Our other anthem is a gem from the early 1980’s found hiding in BCMC’s choral music library, featuring a text by Georgia Harkness. Harkness was one of the first significant American female theologians who, earning her doctorate of divinity in 1923, was the first woman to earn a doctorate from Boston University. An advocate of social justice and women’s leadership roles in the church, it is largely thanks to Harkness’ efforts that women were awarded equal rights in the United Methodist Church in 1956.

For the Bethel College Mennonite Church Newsletter – press here
Printed copies of the newsletter are available in the Gathering Place

The Week at BCMC: April 26—May 3, 2026
Sunday, April , 2026
9:30 a.m.    Worship with sermon by Rev. Dr. B Cayce Ramey with Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery; music by Chancel Choir
YouTube Link for the worship service:
https://youtube.com/live/BHZU12s0acg?feature=share

4 p.m.        Woven and Open Road Concert in the Sanctuary

Tuesday, April 28, 2026
11 a.m.     Poems and Prayers Group—Chapel
12-1 p.m. Bethel College choir rehearsal in Sanctuary (also on Wed.,Thurs.,Fri.)
Wednesday, April 29, 2026
6:30-8:30 p.m. Conscientious Objector Resource Fair in Fellowship Hall
Faith Formation Commission is hosting a conscientious objector resource night (come and go as you like). This event is designed for young people, ages 16-25, who would consider claiming conscientious objector status if the draft were reinstated. We will have printed information, people available for consultation, and materials to begin a C.O. file. Participants are welcome to bring a tablet or laptop if they would like to write their C.O. statement on-site. Contact Pastor Joanna for more information.
6 p.m.        Immigration Justice Task Force—Room 14
7 p.m.        Senior High Youth Group—Room 24
Saturday, May 2, 2026
5-7 p.m.      Newton Community Children’s Choir event in Fellowship Hall
Sunday, May 3, 2026
9:30 a.m.    Worship with sermon by Joanna Harader, Senior H.S. Recognition

Pastors Nathan and Joanna will be leading baptism exploration sessions with the high school youth during Wednesday night youth group (7 p.m.) May 6 and May 20. Any adults who would like to explore the possibility of baptism are invited to reach out to either Nathan or Joanna as well. Our church retreat and baptism at Camp Mennoscah has been moved from its usual time in May to Aug. 30.

The current library theme is “The Story of Us: U S History Explored”. We have chosen books that offer a different perspective of our 250-year history and if the highlighted ones don’t interest you, we have more on the shelves. Come see what the BCMC Library has to offer!

Vacation Bible School (VBS) will be Tuesday-Friday evenings May 26-29 from 5-7:30 p.m. at Bethel College Mennonite Church and May 31 Worship at 10 a.m. (in Athletic Park). Evening VBS is for any and all children who have just completed Preschool (Age 4) through 4th grade. VBS will conclude with a Sunday morning worship on May 31 for ALL ages beginning at 10 a.m. in Athletic Park (700 W 1st St, Newton), immediately followed by games & crafts, fellowship and a potluck lunch. Please register your child/ren online by May 4th using this link (or scan the QR code): https://forms.gle/8A7mo7dBEDuhSQ8a6 VBS is a joint venture of Bethel College Mennonite Church, Faith Mennonite Church, First Mennonite Church, Iglesia Menonita Casa Betania, New Creation Fellowship Church, and Shalom Mennonite Church.
Adults can join the fun! VBS volunteer forms are available at the back of the sanctuary. Please contact Jill Robb or Joanna Harader for more information.

From the Finance committee
As the 1st quarter of the financial year of our church ends, we offer gratitude for the generosity shared in donating monetary offerings toward our annual budget. Each gift is important to the process of fulfilling our mission. A brief BCMC financial report of the general fund income and expenses on March 31, 2026 (25% of the year) is listed below.
Total income $ 103,161 18% of budget
Total expense $ 131,979 23% of budget
Net income/expense -$ 28,817

BCMC Offering for Apr. 19: Gen. Fund $24,154.03; Caring Fund $200; Library Reserve Fund $5; Kitchen Fund $29.

Now that danger of frost is largely passed, tomato, pepper, and basil seedlings will be available in the south entrance of the church building on April 26th. There are some interesting varieties available chosen specifically for their tolerance of hot, humid summer weather. Proceeds will help fund a choral scholar program that provides BC students with a small stipend for participating in the BCMC Chancel Choir.

The Witness Commission invites you to support Camp Sunflower, an LGBTQ youth camp in Wichita, by attending their Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser: “Serving Queer Joy, One Plate at a Time”! The meal and a silent auction will be Apr. 25 from 4:30-7:30 at Calvary United Methodist Church, 2525 Rock Rd. Meal tickets are $15 for adults, $7 for children aged 4-10, and free for children under 3. You can purchase tickets on their website or at the door.

A 10-minute play of John J. Schrag’s refusal to buy war bonds in 1918 will be performed at the Hesston College Playwriting Festival May 1 and 2 at 7 p.m. One of the ten 10-minute plays selected for the festival is ‘To Be or Not To Be Lynched’ by Lois Preheim of BCMC. Students of Rachel Janzi, director of theater at Hesston College, will perform/produce the plays. The production is appropriate for ages 10 and up, but some topics may be heavier. There will be a talk back with the playwrights following the last performance each night. Tickets may be purchased at the door of Keim Center’s Black Box Theater 3015 S. Main Hesston. Admission is $5 for students and $10 for adults and seniors. Seating is limited.

The Bethel College Board of Directors invites you to a reception honoring Dr. Jon and Deborah Gering for their dedicated service to the College. As Bethel’s 15th president, Dr. Gering has led with vision and purpose, achieving an impressive array of accomplishments that have positioned the College for continued growth and success. We are grateful for the enthusiasm and tireless commitment he and Deborah have shared with the Bethel community. Please join us as we celebrate their legacy and leadership, Wednesday, May 6, 3–6 p.m. (Remarks at 4:30 p.m.) in the 1887 Café in the Schultz Student Center.
If you wish to send a personal note of appreciation and/or well wishes to Jon and Deborah, please submit your message to Rosa Barrera, Assistant to the President, by May 1. Submission options include: Email: rbarrera@bethelks.edu
Mail: Office of the President, Bethel College, 300 East 27th Street, North Newton, KS 67117
In person: Administration Building, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

PLANNED GIVING SEMINAR Wed., Apr. 29, 4:30-5:30 p.m. at the Newton Public Library. Hosted by the Newton, North Newton, Hesston and Halstead Community Foundations. A planned gift is more than a financial decision, it’s a lasting expression of what matters most to you. Through thoughtful estate planning, you can create permanent support for the causes and community you love. All are welcome to learn how a simple act of planning today can shape the future of your community for generations to come. Hear directly from trusted professionals and local neighbors who have already taken this meaningful step.
Greg Bontrager, Associate Director, Newton & North Newton Community Foundations, 400 S Main, Suite 100, Newton, KS 67114; 316-866-9801

Lauren Friesen lecture

Lauren Friesen will present an illustrated lecture titled “American Playwright Eugene O’Neill: Rebel with a cause,” Thursday, April 30, at 6:30 p.m., at Newton Public Library, 223 E. 7th St. Lauren is retired theatre professor, the David M. French Professor Emeritus at the University of Michigan, and a resident of Kidron Bethel Village and a Bethel College Mennonite Church member.The presentation is free and sponsored by the Newton Public Library.

Bethel College Announcements: (Krehbiel Auditorium and the Regier Art Gallery are in the Luyken Fine Arts Center)
· Sun., Apr. 26: Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum, 3 p.m., with Dr. Prisca Barnes-Simmons, Wichita, founder of Storytime Village Inc., “The Dockum Drugstore Sit-In,” Kauffman Museum auditorium. This program was rescheduled from Feb. 8, and is in conjunction with the special exhibit “Voices of Conscience: Peace Witness in the Great War.”
· Sun., Apr. 26: Woven and Open Road joint concert, 4 p.m., Bethel College Mennonite Church
· Life Enrichment meets Wednesday mornings in Krehbiel Auditorium. April 29 programs: (final of the school year; note change from printed program) 9:30 a.m., “Walking through Greece on Paul’s Journeys,” Marcia Zuercher, history teacher; 10:50 a.m., “A Hint of Jazz,” piano duets by Dr. Christina Liu, Bethel College, and Dr. Brett Janssen, Central Christian College, McPherson.
· Weds., Apr. 29: Jazz on the Green at Bethel College, 7 p.m. (rain venue: Krehbiel Auditorium)
· Thurs., Apr. 30: Bethel College Voice Studio recital, Dr. Holly Swartzendruber, instructor, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel
· Now in the Regier Art Gallery: Senior Art Exhibit II, featuring the work of Bethel College students Tre August, Nick Collins and Yuretzi Licea, through May 10, Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
· Sat., May 2: Kauffman Museum bird walk, 7 a.m., meet in the museum parking lot at the corner of Main and 27th streets (2801 N. Main St., North Newton. Experienced birders lead a walk of 1-1.5 hours in Chisholm Park and on Sand Creek Trail.
· Sun., May 3: Bethel College Masterworks Concert, 4 p.m.: Haydn’s The Creation, Dr. Russell Adrian conducting, with mass choir, orchestra and soloists, and including presentation of the Erwin C. and Verna Kaufman Goering Music Award to Dr. Barbara Fast. Memorial Hall
· Sat., May 9 – Concert Choir Europe Tour Send-off Concert, 7 p.m., Bethel College Mennonite Church

You are invited to join the chorus for Bethel College’s annual Masterworks concert. Rehearsals are in the Ad Building chapel Tues., Apr. 21 (7-9 p.m.), Mon., Apr.27 (7-9 p.m.), Tues., Apr. 28 (7-9 p.m.), Fri., May 1 (7-9:30 p.m.), with orchestra) and Sat., May 2, 3-5:30 p.m. (dress rehearsal). Scores are provided. For more information, see bethelks.edu/masterworks/

You are invited to a Peace Connections Donor Appreciation Come & Go Event, Fri., May 1, 9:30—11 a.m., at Dyck Arboretum of the Plains, 177 W. Hickory, Hesston, KS. Enjoy the melodies of Handpan Dan, brunch and organizational updates throughout. RSVPs are encouraged: 316-2834-0000

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
Mennonite Mission Network “News from around the world” press here
Mennonite Women USA “Women’s Voices” press here
Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
Just Peace Pilgrimages — South Africa Racial Justice Pilgrimage
Hosted by Iziko Lamaqabane — This South African solidarity learning pilgrimage will explore the long history and legacy of settler colonialism and apartheid, which was an unjust socio-political policy that fostered racial segregation. The pilgrimage will focus on the social constructs created around race, land dispossession and how they so thoroughly defined, and continue to define, South African society. Join Mission Network’s director for Africa and Europe Sibonokuhle Ncube and former executive director Stanley Green on this pilgrimage!
Dates: September 9-22; the optional safari extends the trip by 3 days.

Registration deadline: July 15
Contact Stephanie Weaver at StephanieW@MennoniteMission.net or visit MennoniteMission.net/JustPeace to learn more!

Volunteer at KIPCOR by pressing here

Dear Bethel College Mennonite,
During a time in our country where there is increasing division and violence, how should we faithfully respond? Join Mennonite Central Committee U.S., in partnership with Mennonite Action, September 3-7 in the Chicago areato dive deeper into Anabaptist traditions of nonviolent resistance and to learn how to embody these practices in our current social context. During Faith in Action Peace Camp, we will hear from MCC partners and local leaders who have lived out their faith while standing in solidarity with communities most vulnerable to violence.

Apply by June 21!

During the camp we will explore:Theological grounding for activism and nonviolenceHistory of peace movements around the worldStories from Chicago partners practicing nonviolence during immigration raidsHow to be trauma informed in this workPeace Camps are one way to encourage and support the next generation of the Church to live out an active faith as peacemakers. Young adults, ages 18-30, are invited to apply for this exciting and timely experience. MCC covers all costs of travel (does not include airfare outside of the U.S. and Canada), lodging and meals beyond the $250 registration fee.Please reach out with any questions or concerns. Otherwise, head over to our website to apply by June 21. Don’t miss the incredible opportunity to put theory into practice!Warmest regards,
Nathan Toews
Peace Education Coordinator
MCC U.S. National Peace & Justice Ministries

From Mennonite Church USA
In “Making peace in your town,” Lorraine Stutzman Amstutz, Mennonite Church USA’s denominational minister of Peace & Justice, shares how two congregations model Anabaptist peacemaking through disaster response, immigrant solidarity and hands-on community ministry rooted in Jesus’ call to justice-centered peace. This article first appeared in the spring 2026 issue of MennoMedia’s Leader magazine. Read it here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/making-peace-in-your-town/

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Laura and Nick Sharp, and their two children, are nearing the end of their one-year service term in La Mesa, Colombia, where they offer educational support at the Colegio Americano Menno. Pray that they are able use these final two months in Colombia to continue the relationships they have built, while also preparing themselves and the children they help teach for their inevitable good-byes.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for renewal, courage, and new life in our church planting efforts as we celebrate the resurrection. -WDC Church Planting Commission

Worship Service and Announcements at BCMC–2026 04 19–Creation Care Sunday

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
April 19, 2026–Creation Care 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 for Sunday, April 19:

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
April 19, 2026: Creation Care Sunday

Christ Candle Lighting

Centering Music—Peace be With You (Buckwalter)
Chancel Bells, Verlene Garber, director

Welcome—Darlene Dick—Psalm 104 remix by Rev. Christyn Koschmann—
Slide Show Photos by Weldon Schloneger
*Hymn—All Creatures Worship God Most High (v. 1-4, 7)—VT 81

Children and Youth Conversation—Naomi Krause

Worship Music—Acclamation on Azmon—Chancel Bells

Scripture Reading—Luke 24:13-35—Hugo Boschmann

*Hymn—This Is God’s Wondrous World—VT 180

Sermon—Sacred Place—Joanna Harader

*Hymn—Touch the Earth Lightly—VT 145

Receiving the Offering and Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—There’s a Wild Hope in the Wind—VT 828

*Benediction–I Sing the Mighty Power of God (arr. J. Payne)–Will Wiebe-Friesen

Postlude

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Keyboard—Will Wiebe-Friesen
Audio visual—Ken Lamp

YouTube Link for the Congregational Meeting: https://youtube.com/live/WzDOEwMV0yA?feature=share

The Week at BCMC: April 19—26, 2026
Sunday, April 19, 2026—Creation Care Sunday
9:30 a.m.    Sermon by Joanna Harader; music by Chancel Bells
YouTube Link for the worship service:
https://youtube.com/live/gBtgy9jaHLI?feature=share

10:45 a.m. Congregational Meeting—Sanctuary
YouTube Link for the congregational meeting:
https://youtube.com/live/WzDOEwMV0yA?feature=share

For the Annual Report Booklet June 1, 2025 to May 31, 2026 press here.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026
11 a.m.     Poems and Prayers Group—Chapel
7 p.m        Women’s Fellowship High Tea—Fellowship Hall
Wednesday, April 22, 2026
7 p.m.        Senior High Youth Group—Room 24
7:30 p.m.   Choir Rehearsal—Sanctuary Chancel
Thursday, April 23, 2026
3 p.m.         Cancer Support Group—Nursery
4 p.m.         Worship Commission—Room 14
7 p.m.         Deacon Commission—Room 14
Friday, April 24, 2026
5:30 p.m.    Indigenous Justice Task Force Training—Fellowship Hall
Saturday, April 25, 2026
8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bethel College Music Contest—Sanctuary
9 a.m.—5 p.m. Indigenous Justice Task Force Training—Fellowship Hall
Sunday, April 26, 2026
9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Rev. Dr. B Cayce Ramey with Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery; music by Chancel Choir; March Birthday Blessing
4 p.m.        Woven and Open Road Concert in the Sanctuary

Women’s Fellowship High Tea will be Tues., Apr. 21 at 7 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Program will be by Mary Jo (Goering) Preheim sharing her life and music. All women and girls are invited. Tea coordinated by Brenda Turner.

Faith Formation Commission is hosting a conscientious objector resource night on Wednesday, April 29, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. (come and go as you like) in the fellowship hall. This event is designed for young people, ages 16-25, who would consider claiming conscientious objector status if the draft were reinstated. We will have printed information, people available for consultation, and materials to begin a C.O. file. Participants are welcome to bring a tablet or laptop if they would like to write their C.O. statement on-site. Contact Pastor Joanna for more information.

Thank you to the Youth Group and Youth Coordinator George Leary for taking down the dumpster enclosure at the southeast corner of the church, by the church playground. The fence boards are lined up against the chain-link fence. If you want some rustic boards help yourself. (Watch for screws though.)

Pastors Nathan and Joanna will be leading baptism exploration sessions with the high school youth during Wednesday night youth group (7 p.m.) on Apr. 22, May 6, and May 20. Any adults who would like to explore the possibility of baptism are invited to reach out to either Nathan or Joanna as well. Our church retreat and baptism at Camp Mennoscah has been moved from its usual time in May to August 30.

Don’t miss a wonderful opportunity for a free training—MOVING TOWARD RIGHT RELATIONS: Join us for a transforming personal accountability training as we seek together to move toward right relations with our Indigenous brothers and sisters. Sponsored by the Kansas Repair Communities, Mennonite Central Committee-Central States, and Western District Conference and led by staff from the Coalition to Dismantle the Doctrine of Discovery, Fri., Apr. 24, from 5:30-9 p.m. and Sat., Apr. 25, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. All sessions in the Fellowship Hall of BCMC. Meals provided Friday evening and Saturday noon. There is no registration fee, but registration is required (deadline Apr. 17). For more info, contact Ada Schmidt-Tieszen, 316-842-9751 or email adast@bethelks.edu. See below for the QR code to register. Welcome Rev. Dr. B Cayce Ramey. Rev. Dr. B Cayce Ramey will be facilitating the “Moving Toward Right Relations and also preaching Sun., Apr. 26 at BCMC. He is the Coalition Training Coordinator. He co-founded Racial Heresy with the Rev. Jabriel Ballentine, a ministry and podcast that challenges white supremacy and helps communities step into truth-telling and repair. Living on the homelands of the Piscataway people in Northern Virginia, Cayce leads pilgrimages to Ghana’s enslaver castles, where his own journey was transformed, and works with leaders across the U.S. to grow as change-makers for racial justice in the Church. An Episcopal priest, Cayce was charged with heresy for his public work on reparations and racial justice—an experience that deepened his commitment to embodying the Gospel’s call to justice. Before his ordination, he served as a Marine Corps officer, deploying in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He holds degrees from MIT, Virginia Theological Seminary, and Virginia Union University, where he earned a DMin studying sacramental theology and transatlantic slavery. Cayce is a writer, teacher, photographer, cyclist, husband, father, son, godfather, and friend. He co-hosts a podcast on racism and the Church and helps leaders use systems-focused tools to guide change in their own communities.
You can use the QR code to register.

All youth are invited to a mentor/ mentee event at Gallery Mostaza, Sunday, Apr. 19 at 1:30 to paint a ceramic mug, stuff goodie bags for Bethel College students, fellowship and snacks. Come whether or not your mentor can come or even if you do not have a mentor. Meet at the Gallery, 615 N. Main, Newton.
—Sandra Zerger

Bluestem Communities hosts a summer Jr. Volunteer Program at Kidron Bethel Village and Schowalter Villa for youth ages 12 to 17. Spend your summer making intergenerational connections and serving seniors. The program runs from June 1 to July 24 on a flexible schedule that meets volunteer needs. Application is required and must be submitted by May 8. To receive an application, contact Volunteer@bluestem.org or 316-836-4821.

BCMC Offering for Apr. 12: Gen. Fund $19,553.06; Caring Fund $1,240; Kitchen Fund $11; Solar Fund $2,000.

Will and Johan Wiebe-Friesen will again sell tomato and pepper plants in the south entry of the church in the coming weeks. The date will be announced closer to the sale date depending on the weather. The plants are currently growing in the Bethel College greenhouse if you care to take a peek. Proceeds will go toward the BCMC Choral Scholars fund, which provides Bethel students with a small stipend for participating in the BCMC Chancel Choir.

Women & Girls come to the annual Mennonite Women in Mission’s potluck salad supper Mon., Apr. 20, 6 p.m. at Tabor Mennonite Church, rural Newton. Guest speaker, Kate Mast presents “Our Time, Our Stories, Our Stuff.” This presentation encourages us to think kindly about our stuff in relationship to our time and the stories we tell about our lives. Please bring a potluck salad and one small item that is a treasure of yours to share with your table group. RSVP not required. More info: mennonitewomeninmission.org or their Facebook page.

The Central Kansas Master Chorale will present Haydn’s Lord Nelson Mass (Mass for Troubled Times) with orchestra. Join us for this special concert directed by Dr. Joel Garber, Sunday, Apr. 19, 3 p.m. at Hesston Mennonite Church, 309 S Main St, Hesston. Admission is free, donations accepted. For more information, visit the chorale website: www.centralkansasmasterchorale.org

Kidron Bethel Village is looking for volunteer pianists to play for chapel services on Wednesday afternoons and resident hymn sings on Thursday mornings. If you have the gift of playing the piano and would like to help create meaningful worship and fellowship experiences for residents, we would love to hear from you. For more information, contact Sheri Esau at 316-836-4821 or volunteer@bluestem.org.

Camp Mennoscah, 9458 SE 40th St, Murdock, KS, 67111, is seeking a bookkeeper/reservation specialist. Experience with accounting/bookkeeping and general office duties is preferred. Must have good phone, people and email skills, along with strong organization. This position has potential to be part-or full-time. Candidate will also need to be able to pass a background check and have transportation to camp property. Some remote work could be available. If interested, send inquiries and resume to Olivia Bartel, olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org

The Witness Commission invites you to support Camp Sunflower, an LGBTQ youth camp in Wichita, by attending their Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser: “Serving Queer Joy, One Plate at a Time”! The meal and a silent auction will be Apr. 25 from 4:30-7:30 at Calvary United Methodist Church, 2525 Rock Rd. Meal tickets are $15 for adults, $7 for children aged 4-10, and free for children under 3. You can purchase tickets on their website or at the door.

Congratulations to Community Playschool, its directors Jeanette Leary and Kasey Newell; volunteers from BCMC Stahli Claassen, Cliff Dick, Cynthia Linscheid, Carolyn Penner, and Barb Voran, on Playschool’s 60th Anniversary! They celebrated Thurs., Apr. 16 with a wonderful party in the Playschool rooms and in the BCMC Fellowship Hall!

One of the church youth is looking for a reliable, inexpensive, car to purchase. If you know of such an option, please contact Pastor Joanna.

Bethel College Announcements: (Krehbiel Auditorium is in the Luyken Fine Arts Center)
· Sun., Apr.19: Composer recital: Professor Kris Hilding, Bethel College, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium
· Life Enrichment meets Wednesday mornings in Krehbiel Auditorium. April 22 programs: 9:30 a.m., “Expedition Cruise to Greenland and the Canadian High Arctic Northwest Passageway,” Carol and Donley Duerksen; 10:50 a.m., “Be Useful: The Tricky Ethics of a Mennonite Showgirl,” Rachel Kasper Fitzsimons, Broadway performer. See https://www.bethelks.edu/academics/life-enrichment/ for details and a link to the complete spring schedule.
· Weds., Apr. 22: Junior recital by Bethel College student Kyra Linenberger, voice (moved from April 17), 7 p.m., Ad Building chapel
· Thurs., Apr. 23: Bethel College Wind Ensemble concert, Chris Miertschin, director, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium
· Fri., Apr. 24: Senior Art Exhibit II opens, featuring the work of Bethel College students Tre August, Nick Collins and Yuretzi Licea. The exhibit is open through May 10 (reception May 8) in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center.
Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
· Sun., Apr. 26: Woven and Open Road joint concert, 4 p.m., Bethel College Mennonite Church
· Weds., Apr. 29: Jazz on the Green at Bethel College, 7 p.m. (rain venue:
Krehbiel Auditorium)
· Thurs., Apr. 30: Bethel College Voice Studio recital, Dr. Holly Swartzendruber, instructor, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel
· Sun., May 3: Bethel College Masterworks Concert, 4 p.m.: Haydn’s The Creation, Dr. Russell Adrian conducting, with mass choir, orchestra and soloists, and including presentation of the Erwin C. and Verna Kaufman Goering Music Award; Memorial Hall
You are invited to join the chorus for Bethel College’s annual Masterworks concert. Rehearsals begin Mon., Apr. 20, 7-9 p.m., in the Ad Building chapel. Additional rehearsals are Tues., Apr. 21 (7-9 p.m.), Mon., Apr.27 (7-9 p.m.), Tues., Apr. 28 (7-9 p.m.), Fri., May 1 (7-9:30 p.m., with orchestra) and Sat., May 2, 3-5:30 p.m. (dress rehearsal). Scores are provided. For more information, see bethelks.edu/masterworks/

Friday Apr. 24 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. come join a relief kit packing event on behalf of Bethel College Service Club and Mennonite Central Committee at the MCC building, 121 E. 30th St., North Newton. There will be a meal of hotdogs and hamburgers along with some sides and desserts that will be paid for by donation (suggested amount $15). All donations go to MCC to make more relief kits! Bethel College’s Woven and Open Road will give a small concert during the time. Following the meal we will be packing relief kits with a goal of 500 kits! Come join us for an evening of singing and service! — Adah Hodge, Bethel College Service Club (See the church bulletin board for flyer and sign up sheet.)

For Mennonite Church USA “Equipping” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here

From Camp Mennoscah
We look forward to seeing folks at the Men & Boys Retreat this Friday through Sunday (April 17-19). There are often questions about whether there will be a burn ban or if fires will be allowed. In general, if there is a red flag warning or extreme fire danger, there will be no open flame allowed. There may still be a ban, even without a red flag warning. Staff will be checking with the Kingman County Sheriff and watching weather. Please follow directives of staff. The information staff has may be different than what you found looking online. Contact us at 620-297-3290 with questions.

For Mennonite Disaster Service “On the Level” press here

For Anabaptism at 500 press here

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

Pilar Aguirre, Generosity Coordinator from Mennonite World Conference, will be visiting in the Newton area next week and invites you to join her for a gathering on April 21 to learn more about the mission and global work of Mennonite World Conference:
Dear brothers and sisters,
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to let you know that I will be visiting Kansas this spring, and I would be very grateful for the opportunity to connect with you while I am there.
During my visit, I will be spending time sharing about the life, mission, and global work of Mennonite World Conference, and reflecting on how our worldwide Anabaptist family continues to grow and serve together. As a valued supporter living in Kansas, it would be a joy to gather with you for a time of conversation, sharing, and encouragement.
I will be joined in this endeavor by Bill Braun from the Engagement Team, who will help create a welcoming space for conversation and connection. Bill has previously served on the General Council and Executive Committee, continues to volunteer with MWC, and has recently moved to North Newton. Together, we look forward to sharing updates about Mennonite World Conference and expressing our sincere gratitude for the generosity and partnership that make this work possible.
We warmly invite you to join us at the following location and time:
Kidron Bethel Village
3001 Ivy Dr
North Newton, KS 67117
Classroom A
Date: Tuesday, April 21, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
We’d appreciate it if you could let us know if you plan to attend by replying to <PilarAguirre@mwc-cmm.org> We hope this gathering will be a meaningful opportunity to connect in person, share stories from the global church, and reflect on how we continue to walk together in faith and service. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to Mennonite World Conference. I truly hope you will be able to join us, and I look forward to seeing you during my time in Kansas.
With gratitude and warm regards,
Pilar Aguirre
Generosity Coordinator, Mennonite World Conference
Phone / WhatsApp: +1 2266007156
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube
#mwcmm #followingJesus #livingoutunity #buildingpeace

Mennonite Church USA joined hundreds of faith leaders to sign letter rejecting demonization of migrants, erosion of human and Constitutional rights. Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/news/call-to-christians/

In “Widen the circle of our heart and our awareness,” Mennonite Church USA’s Glen Guyton reflects on his trip to Minneapolis and challenges the church to expand its compassion, deepen its cultural humility and actively embody Christ-centered love in a divided world. Read his Menno Snapshots blog here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/widen-the-circle/

Tap a shoulder
What moves someone to step up and serve? Often, it’s a parent, pastor, church leader or mentor planting a seed.
Micah 6:8 reminds us “he has told you, O mortal, what is good: and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God.”
Did you know more than 600 current pastors and church leaders first answered their call through voluntary service?
Who in your family and congregation might be ready for that same life-shaping experience? Who needs your encouragement to share their gifts and discover how God is at work in the world?
Applications are open to individuals age 20+, for the Mennonite Voluntary Service 2026-27 term — a one-year experience with the option to extend for an additional one to two years. Placements are available in four locations: Alamosa, Colorado; Chicago, Illinois; San Francisco, California; and Tucson, Arizona. Learn more MennoniteMission.net/MVS.

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Caleb and Stephanie Schrock-Hurst have been onsite at Mennonite Christian Hospital (MCH) in Hualien, Taiwan, for more than two months. Pray that the Bible study they are now leading with MCH staff will be a fruitful and fulfilling time of study and fellowship for all involved.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for the youth workers’ retreat hosted this week by WDC. Pray for all who lead youth ministries, and for WDC congregations as they provide support and accountability to nurture trust, wisdom and joy in this ministry.

Worship Service and Announcements at BCMC–2026 04 12 – Holy Humor Sunday

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH – WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS AND THE ORDER OF WORSHIP ARE DIRECTLY BELOW THIS RELIEF SALE ANNOUNCEMENT.

Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale is this weekend! Come on Friday (4pm-8pm) or Saturday (7am to 3pm) to volunteer, eat great food, walk in the 5K, bid on an auction item, add a knot to an MCC comforter, or meet a friend. Everything you spend will go directly to the world-wide relief, development, and peace efforts of Mennonite Central Committee

Friday 4pm-8pm: Food & Activity Booths, Feeding the Multitude, Viewing of Quilts. 5pm: Silent Auction opens. 6pm: Friday Night General Auction begins. 6:45pm: Pie Guys Contest.
Saturday 7am-10am: Breakfast Served. See the online schedule for times of Run for Relief, Food & Activity Booths, Auctions, and more! https://kansas.mccsale.org/home/schedule/

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
April 12, 2026–Holy Humor 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 for Sunday, April 12:

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
April 12, 2026   Holy Humor Sunday

Christ Candle Lighting—This Little Light of Mine (v. 1)—VT 762

Centering Music—Canon Collins (Carl Davis)–
Meghann Rogers

Welcome—Adam Robb

*Hymn—Joy to the World—VT 240

Children and Youth Conversation—Joanna Harader

Worship Music—The Mennonite Game—BCMC Men’s Quartet

Scripture Reading—Matthew 28:1-8

*Hymn—Christ the Lord Is Risen Today—VT 346

Sermon—LOL—Joanna Harader

*Hymn—Lift Your Glad Voices—VT 340

Receiving the Offering

Worship Music—Just a Little Talk with Jesus—BCMC Men’s Quartet

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—You Shall Go Out with Joy—VT 847

*Benediction

Postlude—There’s a New Name Written Down in Glory (arr. Diane Bish)—Will Wiebe-Friesen

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Keyboard—Meghann Rogers
Audio visual—Ben Lichti

Notes from Organist Will Wiebe-Friesen
Today’s postlude is one I’ve had in my back pocket for years, just waiting for the right Sunday! Diane Bish has hosted her television program The Joy of Music on PBS for 40 years and continues to film new episodes, highlighting pipe organs from around the world. Ms. Bish, even in her 80’s, is one of the most visible organists in the world (in part due to her signature rhinestone shoes!) It may surprise you that she is a native of Wichita. Her sister and brother-in-law were United Methodist ministers in Marion, KS, and her niece is choir director at Lorraine Ave. Mennonite Church! I hope you enjoy the pep of her arrangement of this old gospel hymn!

The Week at BCMC: April 12—19, 2026
Sunday, April 12. 2026—Holy Humor Sunday
9:30 a.m.    Worship with sermon by Joanna Harader; music by a men’s quartet
10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time;     10:45 a.m. Faith Formation
11:45 a.m. College students are invited to a pizza lunch today, hosted by the Agape Sunday School class. We will gather in the fellowship hall around 11:45.
YouTube Link for the worship service:
https://youtube.com/live/_NMWBmMqZQY?feature=share

Monday, April 13, 2026
7:15 p.m. Community Playshool—The annual meeting of the Community Playschool Corporation in Fellowship Hall. Interested members of the congregations supporting Community Playschool are invited to attend.
Tuesday, April 14, 2026
11 a.m.     Poems and Prayers Group—Chapel
7 p.m.       Finance Committee—Room 14
7 p.m.       Faith Formation Commission—Fellowship Hall
Wednesday, April 15, 2026
7 p.m.        Senior High Youth Group—Room 24
7:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal—Sanctuary Chancel
Thursday, April 16, 2026
9 a.m.—4:30 p.m.   Mennonite World Conference meeting—Room 14
4 p.m.      Witness Commission—Room 23
5:30—7:30 p.m. Community Playschool 60th Anniversary Celebration in Playschool Rooms and Fellowship Hall (see announcement below)
6 p.m.       Chancel Bells Rehearsal—Room B7
6:30 p.m. Hospitality Commission—Room 23
6:30 p.m. Abuse Prevention & Response Committee (APRC)—Chapel
7 p.m.        Bethel College Women’s Association—Room 21
Friday, April 17, 2026
9 a.m.—4:30 p.m.   Mennonite World Conference meeting—Room 14
Sunday, April 19, 2026—Creation Care Sunday
9:30 a.m.    Sermon by Joanna Harader; music by Chancel Bells
10:45 a.m. Congregational Meeting—Sanctuary

All youth: You are invited to a mentor/ mentee event at Gallery Mostaza, Sun., April 19 at 1:30 to paint a ceramic mug, stuff goodie bags for Bethel College students, fellowship and snacks. Come whether or not your mentor can come or even if you do not have a mentor. Meet at the Gallery, 615 N. Main, Newton. —Sandra Zerger

Care Packages for College Students
Help us bless our college students! We are collecting items for care packages to remind them their church family is thinking of them. Donations can be placed in the box by the mailboxes labeled “Care Packages.” Suggested items include snacks, small essentials, and encouraging notes. We have 15 students we are preparing care packages for. We will be assembling the care packages at a Mentor/Mentee event on Apr. 19 in the afternoon, so please have all items in the box by Sun., Apr. 19. Thank you for supporting and encouraging our students!

Community Playschool, Inc is happy to announce a celebration for it’s 60th anniversary! EVERYONE, including members of sponsoring churches, former teachers, volunteers, families, students and anyone else, is invited and welcome to join us on Thurs., Apr. 16 from 5:30-7 p.m. for a look back at the history of the preschool. We will have slides and photos, a timeline of the major events and changes, a place for memories and stories and, of course, cake! The classrooms will be open for tours while the main activities will take place in the Fellowship Hall of BCMC. Please plan to come and help us celebrate this monumental occasion!

The April congregational meeting will be Sun., April 19, during the Sunday School hour in the sanctuary. Agenda items will include: Voting for new members for the Church Board and commissions; updates on the Pastoral Search, Facilities Committee renovation, AV project conversations, a Faith Formation proposal, a Worship schedule proposal and more. Live streaming of the meeting will be available. An Annual Report booklet will be sent by email early next week and hardcopies will be available in the Gathering Place.

Pastors Nathan and Joanna will be leading baptism exploration sessions with the high school youth during Wednesday night youth group (7 p.m.) on Apr. 22, May 6, and May 20. Any adults who would like to explore the possibility of baptism are invited to reach out to either Nathan or Joanna as well. Our church retreat and baptism at Camp Mennoscah has been moved from its usual time in May to August 30.

Women’s Fellowship High Tea will be Tues., Apr. 21, 7 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Program will be by Mary Jo (Goering) Preheim sharing her life and music. All women and girls are invited. Tea coordinated by Brenda Turner.

From the Finance committee
As the 1st quarter of the financial year of our church ends, we offer gratitude for the generosity shared in donating monetary offerings toward our annual budget. Each gift is important to the process of fulfilling our mission. A brief BCMC financial report of the general fund income and expenses on March 31, 2026 (25% of the year) is listed below.
Total income $ 103,161 18% of budget
Total expense $ 131,979 23% of budget
Net income/expense -$ 28,817

BCMC Offering for Apr. 5: Gen. Fund $15,425; MCC Sale $100; Caring Fund $200; Kitchen Fund $17; Solar Fund $50.

Thanks to those who participated in our Open Table time on Wednesday. We learned about God’s creation, heard about St. Francis, and made pinecone bird feeders! Our next Open Table will be Wed., May 13, with a meal at 6 p.m. followed by a brief time of intergenerational, interactive worship. All are welcome! See pictures at the end of this email.

Poems and Prayers Group
The poems and prayers group that has been meeting during lent will continue to meet weekly through May Tuesday mornings at 11 in the BCMC chapel. This is an informal time to bring a poem or prayer that speaks to you and share it with the group. Readings will be followed by silence and discussion. Your selection could be something that you have written or something that someone else has written. You do not need to consider yourself a poet to attend. Simply bring a listening ear, an open heart, and joy for the truth revealed when words and phrases rub together and catch fire.

Going Beyond Land Acknowledgement:
–Don’t miss a wonderful opportunity for a free training—MOVING TOWARD RIGHT RELATIONS: Join us for a transforming personal accountability training as we seek together to move toward right relations with our Indigenous brothers and sisters. Sponsored by the Kansas Repair Communities, Mennonite Central Committee-Central States, and Western District Conference and led by staff from the Coalition to Dismantle the Doctrine of Discovery, Fri., Apr. 24, from 5:30-9 p.m. and Sat., Apr. 25, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. All sessions in the Fellowship Hall of BCMC. Meals provided Friday evening and Saturday noon. There is no registration fee, but registration is required (deadline April 17). For more info, contact Ada Schmidt-Tieszen, 316-842-9751 or email adast@bethelks.edu. You can use the QR code to register.

The Central Kansas Master Chorale will present Haydn’s Lord Nelson Mass (Mass for Troubled Times) with orchestra. Join us for this special concert directed by Dr. Joel Garber, Sun., Apr. 19, 3 p.m. at Hesston Mennonite Church, 309 S Main St, Hesston. Admission is free, donations accepted. For more information, visit the chorale website: www.centralkansasmasterchorale.org

Kidron Bethel Village is looking for volunteer pianists to play for chapel services on Wednesday afternoons and resident hymn sings on Thursday mornings. If you have the gift of playing the piano and would like to help create meaningful worship and fellowship experiences for residents, we would love to hear from you. For more information, contact Sheri Esau at 316-836-4821 or volunteer@bluestem.org.

The Witness Commission invites you to support Camp Sunflower, an LGBTQ youth camp in Wichita, by attending their Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser: “Serving Queer Joy, One Plate at a Time”! The meal and a silent auction will be Apr. 25 from 4:30-7:30 at Calvary United Methodist Church, 2525 Rock Rd. Meal tickets are $15 for adults, $7 for children aged 4-10, and free for children under 3. You can purchase tickets on their website or at the door.

Bethel College Announcements: (Krehbiel Auditorium is in the Luyken Fine Arts Center)
· Life Enrichment meets Wednesday mornings in Krehbiel Auditorium. April 15 programs: 9:30 a.m., “C. Henry Smith Peace Oratory Contest,” Bethel College student entries; 10:50 a.m., “It’s a Small World,” Weldon Schloneger, photographer. See https://www.bethelks.edu/academics/life-enrichment/ for details and a link to the complete spring schedule.
· Last chance to see the 2026 Student Art Exhibit in the Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center, featuring the work of students in Bethel College art classes, in various media, which closes Fri., Apr. 17. The reception is Thurs., Apr.16, from 11 a.m.-noon at the gallery, during the annual URICA Symposium. Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m
· Tues., Apr. 14:Faculty recital: Duo pianos, by Bethel College professor Dr. Christina Liu and guest Dr. Brett Janssen, (Central Christian College/McPherson College), 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium
· Weds., Apr. 15: Bethel College Orchestra concert, Kris Hilding, director, 7 p.m.
Krehbiel Auditorium
· Fri., Apr. 17: Junior recital by Bethel College student Kyra Linenberger, voice, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel
· Sat., Apr. 18: Recital by Bethel College student Maira Abrile de Paiva, voice, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel
· Sun., Apr.19: Composer recital: Professor Kris Hilding, Bethel College, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium
· Thurs., Apr. 23: Bethel College Wind Ensemble concert, Chris Miertschin, director, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium
· Sun., May 3: Masterworks concert at Bethel College, The Creation by Joseph Haydn

Friday Apr. 24 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. come join a relief kit packing event on behalf of Bethel College Service Club and Mennonite Central Committee at the MCC building, 121 E. 30th St., North Newton. There will be a meal of hotdogs and hamburgers along with some sides and desserts that will be paid for by donation (suggested amount $15). All donations go to MCC to make more relief kits! Bethel College’s Woven and Open Road will give a small concert during the time. Following the meal we will be packing relief kits with a goal of 500 kits! Come join us for an evening of singing and service! — Adah Hodge, Bethel College Service Club (See the church bulletin board for flyer and sign up sheet.)

Bulletin Announcements for Hesston College: April 2026Annual Juried Student Art Exhibit at Hesston College
The annual Hesston College Juried Student Art Exhibit will be open and available for viewing April 13 through May 1 in the Regier-Friesen Gallery located in Laban Peachey Center, 325 S College Drive, Hesston. A reception to celebrate the student artists and announce winners will take place April 15 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, and admission is free.Spring Community Day – April 18
Hesston College is rolling out the welcome mat for its Spring Community Day, and the entire community is invited! Join the campus community on Saturday, April 18, for an afternoon of Lark baseball, a Little Larks dance clinic performance, delicious food, free rally towels for the first 100 fans and a chance to connect with friends and neighbors. The baseball doubleheader begins at 1 p.m. at Oswald Field. Throughout the afternoon, fuel up with tasty eats from Meat Rubbers food truck and Salted Creamery handmade ice cream. For more information, visit hesston.edu/communityday.Pen to Paper to Performance at Hesston College, May 1 and 2
Hesston College theatre’s playwriting festival is back, May 1 and 2 in Keim Center. “Pen to Paper to Performance” brings to life several winning 10-minute play submissions written by area playwrights and will be performed both nights at 7 p.m. A talk-back time with the playwrights will follow each performance. Tickets ($5/students, $10/adults and seniors) will be available at the door. For more information, visit hesston.edu/theatre.

From Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp

Memorial Day Work and Play May 22-25, 2026: Spend your holiday weekend at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp for the annual Work and Play Retreat! The weekend focuses on getting ready for the coming summer camp season by helping with food service, cleaning and moving camp out of Winter mode, while also offering a free day on Sunday to enjoy the holiday weekend. The retreat begins at 7:00pm on Friday and concludes after breakfast on Monday.

See The RMMC News & Stories From March

Take a look at the latest/greatest happenings here at RMMC. This information can be viewed on:

RMMC Web Page – News & Stories (under “About Us”)
RMMC Facebook Page
RMMC Instagram Page

Summer camping season is coming soon and we hope you and your family and friends are planning to join us here at Rocky Mountain. Visit the rmmc.org web about options for folks of all ages:

From Mennonite World Conference press here

From Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
Service Adventure needs participants and leaders!
Are you sensing God’s call to mentor and guide young adults as they grow in faith, service and community? Want to live in beautiful places like Anchorage, Alaska or Colorado Springs, Colorado? Answer the call and become a Service Adventure unit leader! Unit leaders mentor the young adults in the unit and provide some oversight and guidance for the household.

Ages 24+ should contact Michael Oyer at MichaelO@MennoniteMission.net!

Can a gap year change your life? Only if you’re up for adventure! Applications are now open for the 2026-27 term.

Service Adventure is a 10-month volunteer experience for young adults ages 17-20. Live in community with peers and unit leaders, serve with local nonprofit agencies, and grow in your faith with a supporting church congregation! Learn more and apply at MennoniteMission.net/ServiceAdventure.

For Mennonite Central Committee “In Touch” press here
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.

From Mennonite Women USA “Grapevine” press here

For a Paris Mennonite Center Update press here

From Mennonite Church USA

Mennonite Church USA is accepting applications for its annual Pam De Young Net Zero Energy Fund grants, from now through June 30. The grants assist MC USA congregations committed to renewable energy by defraying the cost of hardware purchases to install solar panels, car charging stations or other renewable energy projects. Learn more and apply here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/news/2026-renewable-energy-grants/ Lorraine Stutzman Amstutz, MC USA denominational minister for Peace and Justice, prays for lasting peace in response to the U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran that started Feb. 28, 2026, and Iran’s retaliation that have led to the loss of hundreds of lives. Read her prayer here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/response-to-the-iran-war/

In 2025, MC USA awarded four Justice Fund grants to congregations addressing urgent needs related to immigration justice and the ecological impacts of climate injustice. Read about the recipients and learn how to apply for a 2026 grant here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/news/justice-fund-recipients-respond/ Michael Danner, MC USA’s associate executive director of Church Vitality, explains that MC USA is not a membership association but a community of co-laborers in Christ, where congregations, conferences and the national church work together to support pastoral leadership, safe church practices and congregational vitality. Read his Menno Snapshots blog here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/were-not-an-association/ Pray with Mennonite Church USA for the upcoming Constituency Leaders Council gathering in Chicago, April 16–18, as leaders from across our conferences come together to discern, guide and strengthen our shared ministry. We ask for prayers for safe journeys, wisdom in conversation and the Spirit’s steady presence among all who gather.

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: This week, four SOOP participants will begin two-week assignments at Hesston (Kansas) College and Iglesia Cristiana Roca de Refugio in San Antonio, Texas. Additionally, another couple will wrap up a one-month SOOP placement in Calais, France, this week. Praise God for the willingness of these participants to give of their time and talents.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC’s Kids Meet Christ program and for all WDC congregations utilizing KMC resources to explore and experience new dimensions of worship together as intergenerational communities.

Worship Service and Announcements at BCMC–2026 04 05 – Easter Sunday

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
April 5, 2026–Easter 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 for Sunday, April 5:

Good Friday, April 3
6 p.m., Stations of the Cross, at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church (2001 Windsor Dr.). The people of St. Matthew’s have invited us to join them in this brief time of contemplating Jesus’ crucifixion.

7 p.m.–Ecumenical Worship, at St. Matthew’s. Pastors from Bethel College Mennonite, Shalom Mennonite, Faith Mennonite, Trinity Heights United Methodist, Salem United Methodist, and St. Matthew’s Episcopal churches will lead this contemplative service. We are excited for this new opportunity to join with like-minded Christians on this sacred day and hope that many of you will join us.

Easter Sunday, April 5!
7 a.m. Sunrise Service at Hank and Elaine Prouty’s farm (332 N. Hoover Rd., Newton)–rain or shine!; The Sr. High youth will lead us in worship and then we will share a potluck breakfast together.

PRELUDE THIS SUNDAY STARTS AT 9:40 A.M.
10 a.m. Easter Worship in the sanctuary. Note the later start time and join us as we worship and celebrate together. We are excited to be officially welcoming eighteen new members into our church community on Easter this year!

Welcome New Members to BCMC!
Please extend a warm welcome to the 18 new members joining this Easter Sunday as members or as wider fellowship members at BCMC. These new members bring a host of gifts and experiences to give and receive as we journey in faith. Their faith statements are available electronically and a printed version at the back of the sanctuary. New members will be available in the gathering space after worship. A few more members who could not be present on Easter will be joining in May. Let us give thanks for the new life that we will experience together.

To read the new members’ faith statements press here

11:30 a.m. Easter Lunch Potluck in the fellowship hall. The Bethel College Relations Team is hosting a potluck lunch for college students who aren’t able to be with family for the holiday. Everyone is invited! If you are able, consider bringing a little extra food to share with our college friends. (Contact Kevin Neufeld for more information.)

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
April 5, 2026
Easter: Fulfilling Imagination
Prelude                I Know That My Redeemer Lives (VT 347) (arr. D. Wood)
Christ is Alive, Let Christians Sing (VT 359) (arr. J.W. Kerr)
I Know That My Redeemer Liveth (Handel) (arr. N. Johnson)
Christ the Lord is Risen Today (VT 346) (arr. J. Payne)
Will Wiebe-Friesen, organ

Christ Candle Lighting
Land Acknowledgement
Centering Music–E’en So Lord Jesus Quickly Come (Paul Manz)–Chancel Choir; Joel Garber, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist

Welcome & Call to Worship–Joanna Harader

One: Come into God’s presence, you who imagine and you who seek, you who disrupt and you who repair.
All: By the Spirit, we gather in hope.
One: Come into God’s day of resurrection, you who have known grief, you who long for new life, you who carry “Alleluias” in your hearts.
All: In Christ, we gather at the empty tomb.
One: Come into God’s presence, singing for joy and for justice; bringing prayer and worship, your most faithful acts of resistance.
All: To God be the glory! We gather to praise!

Opening Prayer

*Hymn–Low in the Grave He Lay–VT 333

Children and Youth Conversation–Adam Robb

Worship Music–“Hallelujah” from Christ on the Mount of Olives (Beethoven)

Scripture Reading–Philippians 2:12-18–Virginia Mininger

*Hymn–Come, Ye Faithful, Raise the Strain–VT 348

Scripture Reading–John 20:1-18

Sermon–I Have Seen the Lord–Nathan Koontz

*Hymn- Christ Is Alive! Let Christians Sing–VT 359

Reception of New Members: Bill Braun, Joyce Braun, Ryan Ellett, Jim Friesen, Joan Friesen, Omer Galle, Laura Garvin, Keith Good, Linda Koehn Good,
Dennis Loepp, Dori Loepp, Bill Rich, Kathleen Rich, Diana Torline,
Carolyn Rich Voth, Tim Voth, Johan Wiebe-Friesen, Will Wiebe-Friesen
VT 961

Receiving the Offering and Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn–Now the Green Blade Rises–VT 353

*Benediction

Postlude–Fanfare (Jacques-Nicolas Lemmens)

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together Keyboard—Will Wiebe-Friesen Audio visual—Ken Lamp

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:
–Don’t miss a wonderful opportunity for a free training—MOVING TOWARD RIGHT RELATIONS: Join us for a transforming personal accountability training as we seek together to move toward right relations with our Indigenous brothers and sisters. Sponsored by the Kansas Repair Communities, Mennonite Central Committee-Central States, and Western District Conference and led by staff from the Coalition to Dismantle the Doctrine of Discovery, Fri., Apr. 24, from 5:30-9 p.m. and Sat., Apr. 25, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. All sessions in the Fellowship Hall of BCMC. Meals provided Friday evening and Saturday noon. There is no registration fee, but registration is required (deadline April 17).  For more info, contact Ada Schmidt-Tieszen, 316-842-9751 or email adast@bethelks.edu. You can use the QR code to register.

—Oak Flat: Though the Ninth Circuit Court has not stopped the land transfer and drilling has begun, four court cases are still pending and the Coalition to Dismantle the Doctrine of Discovery has a working group to “Mobilize Spiritual Communities for Oak Flat” that meets on zoom every other week. If you or anyone in your faith community is interested in joining, contact melanie.beikman@azipl.

Notes from Organist Will Wiebe-Friesen
· You may notice an extra sparkle at a couple points in Sunday’s service. An addition, called a zimbelstern, was made to our wonderful Dobson organ in early March. The zimbelstern–which translates cymbal star—originates from the North German organ tradition of Bach’s era and was traditionally designed as a rotating golden star at the top of the organ case that tinkled small bells as it spun. Ours is constructed of five handbells that are struck mechanically by a mechanism for which the organist can control speed and volume. We are very grateful to Jon Thieszen for spending several days here last month installing it! If you’re interested in learning more about the zimbelstern or our pipe organ, Will Wiebe-Friesen would be happy to share more with you.
· Sunday’s organ prelude features several favorite Easter hymns as well as an organ setting of a beloved soprano aria from Messiah. The choir’s anthem is the climatic Hallelujah! from Beethoven’s Christ on the Mount of Olives, an oratorio portraying Jesus’ emotional turmoil in the Garden of Gethsemane prior to his arrest, with all the drama that one could expect from Beethoven. Unlike other similar passion works, this oratorio highlights Jesus’ humanity and does not address the crucifixion or resurrection, rather ending with Jesus’ acceptance of what is to come in the following days. The hymn of praise we hear today is the final movement, foreshadowing the triumph of Easter. Today’s postlude is an organ work by Belgian-French organist Jacques-Nicolas Lemmens (1823-1881). Aside from this Fanfare, Lemmens’ music is virtually unheard today; however, one of his students, Charles-Marie Widor, is perhaps the most well-known organist of all time just after J.S. Bach.

The Week at BCMC: April 5—12, 2026
Sunday, April 5—Easter Sunday —Prelude 9:40 a.m.; Worship 10 a.m.
No Sunday School Today

11:30 a.m. Easter Potluck in the Fellowship Hall

YouTube Link for the worship service:
https://youtube.com/live/Ue_mO_VQMjM?feature=share

The Caring Fund is an above budget benevolent fund administered by the Deacon Commission for the purpose of assisting our congregation’s members and community persons in need. It is generated by offerings made payable to BCMC and designated “caring fund.” There are fishbowls on the back tables for your donations.Thank you for your continued support and contributions.

Monday, April 6, 2026—Office will be closed
Tuesday, April 7, 2026
4 p.m.       Staff Congregation Relations Committee—Room 14
Wednesday, April 8, 2026
6 p.m.       Open Table—Fellowship Hall     7:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal—Sanctuary Chancel
Thursday, April 9, 2026
6 p.m.       Chancel Bells Rehearsal—Room B7       7 p.m. Church Board—Room 14
Sunday, April 12. 2026—Holy Humor Sunday
9:30 a.m.    Worship with sermon by Joanna Harader; music by a men’s quartet
10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation
11:45 a.m   Pizza Lunch for College Students

The current library theme is “The Story of Us: U S History Explored”. We have chosen books that offer a different perspective of our 250-year history and if the highlighted ones don’t interest you, we have more on the shelves. Come see what the BCMC Library has to offer!

The annual meeting of the Community Playschool Corporation will be Mon., Apr. 13, 7:15 p.m. at the BCMC Fellowship Hall. Interested members of the congregations supporting Community Playschool are invited to attend.

Community Playschool, Inc is happy to announce a celebration for it’s 60th anniversary! EVERYONE, including members of sponsoring churches, former teachers, volunteers, families, students and anyone else, is invited and welcome to join us on Thurs., Apr. 16 from 5:30-7 p.m. for a look back at the history of the preschool. We will have slides and photos, a timeline of the major events and changes, a place for memories and stories and, of course, cake! The classrooms will be open for tours while the main activities will take place in the Fellowship Hall of BCMC. Please plan to come and help us celebrate this monumental occasion!

Do you know a good joke? We will celebrate Holy Humor Sunday on April 12 and Joanna is looking for short/simple jokes to use during the children’s conversation. You can put jokes in her mailbox at church or email them: joanna@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org

The Witness Commission invites you to support Camp Sunflower, an LGBTQ youth camp in Wichita, by attending their Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser: “Serving Queer Joy, One Plate at a Time”! The meal and a silent auction will be held April 25 from 4:30-7:30 at Calvary United Methodist Church, 2525 Rock Rd. Meal tickets are $15 for adults, $7 for children aged 4-10, and free for children under 3. You can purchase tickets on their website or at the door.

Shalom Mennonite Church in Newton, Kansas, invites interested individuals to apply for the position of Office Manager. The job description for the half-time position is available on request from Janet Dixon, Shalom Church Board Chair. Candidates should send a cover letter and resume to Janet at fraujdixon@yahoo.com. If you have questions, please contact Janet via email or phone, 785-845-2166.

The Central Kansas Master Chorale will present Haydn’s Lord Nelson Mass (Mass for Troubled Times) with orchestra. Join us for this special concert directed by Dr. Joel Garber, Sun., Apr. 19, 3 p.m. at Hesston Mennonite Church, 309 S Main St, Hesston. Admission is free, donations accepted. For more information, visit the chorale website: www.centralkansasmasterchorale.org

Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale (KMRS) is THIS WEEK — April 10 & 11 at the Kansas State Fair Grounds in Hutchinson. Come, bring your friends, and support the relief, development, and peace-building work of Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) around the world.
· Calling all Zwieback bakers! We need 16 dozen more zwieback! See Esther or Elaine at the back of the sanctuary after worship today if you can bake several dozen in addition to what you’ve already signed up to make. MANY thanks to those who’ve agreed to make 35 pies, 49 dozen zwieback, 18 mini-pies, and other baked items.
· Reminder: We will transport items to the sale on Friday and early on Saturday morning. Bring plants inside the south entrance and baked items to the kitchen any time on Friday, and by 7:30 a.m. on Saturday.
· My Coins Count to help fund MCC education programs continues in the Gathering Place today — the last day to place your coins, bills, and checks in the jug. All the money we’ve collected so far will be taken to the sale on Friday.
· THANK YOU to the BCMC Sunday School classes who help underwrite KMRS costs. Thanks to generous donors, all expenses have now been covered. This means that ALL SALE PROCEEDS go directly to MCC programs.
· Donations! BCMC members have donated many items for the Quilt, Silent, General, and Children’s Auctions. Go to the KMRS website https://kansas.mccsale.org/auctions/ to view some of the auction items. Do you see something you would like to bid on?!
· Volunteers Needed: All hands on deck! The KS Mennonite Relief Sale is powered by over 1,000 volunteers each year, and there are still openings–big and small. Check out available positions at https://kansas.mccsale.org/volunteer/ and consider signing up for a slot or two. There is something for everyone!
· For more information:
–KMRS posterboard & table in the Gathering Place for Run for Relief forms,
   the My Coins Count jug, urgent service opportunities and more.
— KMRS website: https://kansas.mccsale.org/
— BCMC liaisons: Steve & Elaine Schurr, Brad & Diane Born, and William &
   Esther Kreider Eash.

Bethel College Announcements: (Krehbiel Auditorium is in the Luyken Fine Arts Center)
· Mon., Apr. 6: Bethel College will present its 2025 alumni awards in convocation, 11 a.m., Krehbiel Auditorium. Young Alumnus, Kristin E. Wedel ’08 (social work), Providence, R.I., a therapist with a particular interest in new parent issues; Outstanding Alumnus, Virgil Penner ’60 (industrial arts), North Newton, a long- time educator, coach, administrator and visual artist; Distinguished Achievement, Tim Wiens ’74 (social work), Silver Spring, Md., a health services administrator focused on the needs of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
· Now in the Regier Art Gallery, Fine Arts Center: annual Student Art Exhibit, featuring the work of students in Bethel College art classes, in various media, through Apr. 17. Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
· Life Enrichment, for adults age 60 and older, meets Wednesday mornings in Krehbiel Auditorium. April 8 programs: 9:30 a.m., “Wichita Wildlife and Parks,” Jim Mason, retired biologist; [note change from printed program] 10:50 a.m., “Cars that Drove Me,” Mark Janzen, author.
· Fri., Apr. 10: Junior recital by Bethel College student Seth Balzer, brass, 7 p.m.
    Krehbiel Auditorium
· Sat., Apr. 11: Senior recital by Bethel College student Caleb Koontz, piano,
   4 p.m. Administration Building chapel
· Sat., Apr. 11: Senior recital by Bethel College student Caleb Garber, cello, 7 p.m.
   Administration Building chapel
· Tues., Apr. 14:Faculty recital: Duo pianos, by Bethel College professor Dr. Christina Liu and guest Dr. Brett Janssen, Central Christian College/McPherson College, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium
· Weds., Apr. 15: Bethel College Orchestra concert, Kris Hilding, director, 7 p.m.
    Krehbiel Auditorium
· Fri., April 17: Junior recital by Bethel College student Kyra Linenberger, voice, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel
· Sat., April 18: Recital by Bethel College student Maira Abrile de Paiva, voice, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel
· Sun., May 3: Masterworks concert at Bethel College,The Creation by Joseph Haydn

Friday Apr. 24 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. come join a relief kit packing event on behalf of Bethel College Service Club and Mennonite Central Committee at the MCC building, 121 E. 30th St., North Newton. There will be a meal of hotdogs and hamburgers along with some sides and desserts that will be paid for by donation (suggested amount $15). All donations go to MCC to make more relief kits! Bethel College’s Woven and Open Road will give a small concert during the time. Following the meal we will be packing relief kits with a goal of 500 kits! Come join us for an evening of singing and service! — Adah Hodge, Bethel College Service Club (See the church bulletin board for flyer and sign up sheet.)

BCMC Offering for Mar. 29: Gen. Fund $5,363; Wed. Supper $199; Plant Fund $50; Caring Fund $600; Library Reserve Fund $5; Kitchen Fund $16; Al Penner Mem. $200;
Barbara Soth Mem. $905.

Hesston College Announcements
Annual Juried Student Art Exhibit at Hesston College
The annual Hesston College Juried Student Art Exhibit will be open and available for viewing April 13 through May 1 in the Regier-Friesen Gallery located in Laban Peachey Center, 325 S College Drive, Hesston. A reception to celebrate the student artists and announce winners will take place April 15 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, and admission is free.

Spring Community Day – April 18
Hesston College is rolling out the welcome mat for its Spring Community Day, and the entire community is invited! Join the campus community on Saturday, April 18, for an afternoon of Lark baseball, a Little Larks dance clinic performance, delicious food, free rally towels for the first 100 fans and a chance to connect with friends and neighbors. The baseball doubleheader begins at 1 p.m. at Oswald Field. Throughout the afternoon, fuel up with tasty eats from Meat Rubbers food truck and Salted Creamery handmade ice cream. For more information, visit hesston.edu/communityday.

Pen to Paper to Performance at Hesston College, May 1 and 2
Hesston College theatre’s playwriting festival is back, May 1 and 2 in Keim Center. “Pen to Paper to Performance” brings to life several winning 10-minute play submissions written by area playwrights and will be performed both nights at 7 p.m. A talk-back time with the playwrights will follow each performance. Tickets ($5/students, $10/adults and seniors) will be available at the door. For more information, visit hesston.edu/theatre.

From Mennonite Disaster Service press here
For Mennonite Men “Engage” press here
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.
For Mennonite World Conference “Info” press here

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Today, we celebrate Easter and the hope brought by the risen Christ amid a world that seems more chaotic and destructive every day. Pray that God’s people would remember to be “Easter people” every day, displaying the love of Jesus through the everyday acts of seeking justice, doing service and hoping for a better future.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for Jesus’ resurrection power embodied in WDC congregations through acts of compassion and love, solidarity with those who suffer, and resistance to evil and oppression.

Worship Service and Announcements at BCMC–2026 03 29

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
March 29, 2026–Palm 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 for Sunday, March 29:

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
March 29, 2026
Palm Sunday: Sacred Protest

Christ Candle Lighting

Centering Music—Hosanna, Loud Hosanna [VT 313] (arr. P. La Plante)
Will Wiebe-Friesen

Welcome and Call to Worship—Sondra Bandy Koontz

One: Come into God’s presence, you who imagine and you who seek, you who disrupt and you who repair.
All: By the Spirit, we gather in hope.
One: Come into God’s saving grace, you who shout, “Hosanna,” you who pray, “save us,” you who wave branches to welcome Christ.
All: In Christ, we gather in celebration.
One: Come into God’s presence, singing for joy and for justice; bringing prayer and worship, your most faithful acts of resistance.
All: To God be the glory! We gather to praise!
(from Illustrated Ministries)

Opening Prayer

*Hymn—Hosanna, Loud Hosanna—VT 313
Children and youth are invited to meet Pastor Joanna at the back of the sanctuary to participate in the palm parade during the singing of this hymn.

Children and Youth Conversation—Barb Koontz

Worship Music—I’m Gonna Sing when the Spirit says Sing—Children’s Choir, Olivia Garber on the Ukulele

Scripture Reading—Psalm 118: 1, 25-29—Dilores Rempel Suderman

*Hymn–All Glory, Laud, and Honor— VT 315

Scripture Reading—Matthew 21:1-11— Lee Suderman

Sermon—No Kings?—Joanna Harader

Breath Prayer—“Hosanna,” I cry./ “Save us,” we pray.

*Hymn—Ride On, Ride On in Majesty—VT 316

Receiving the Offering and Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—God, Be the Love—VT 43
Those with March birthdays are welcome to come forward during this hymn to receive a birthday blessing. This morning we also celebrate the birthday of Payne which is this coming Thursday, April 2!

*Charge and Benediction

Postlude–Postlude-Reflection for Palm Sunday [VT 315 & 325] (arr. M. Ellis)

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Keyboard—Will Wiebe-Friesen
Audio visual— Ken Lamp

BCMC Offering for Mar. 22: Gen. Fund $8,612.34; Wed. Supper $244; MCC Sale $75; Caring Fund $200; Bethel College Scholarship Fund $200; Kitchen Fund $22; Women’s Fellowship $147; Al Penner Mem. $100.

The Week at BCMC: March 29—April 5, 2026
Sunday, March 29, 2026—Palm Sunday
9:30 a.m.   Worship           10:30 a.m. Coffee/water/tea in the Gathering Place

YouTube Link for the worship service this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/JF4jQ02_jns?feature=share

Tuesday, March 31, 2026
11 a.m.     Poems and Prayers Group for Lent—Chapel
12 noon—3 p.m. Library Committee—Room 14
Wednesday, April 1, 2026
7:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal—Sanctuary Chancel
Thursday, April 2, 2026—Maundy Thursday
6 p.m.       Chancel Bells Rehearsal—Room B7
7 p.m.       Maundy Thursday service in the Sanctuary
YouTube Link for Maundy Thursday service: https://youtube.com/live/tDKSA_NpFNQ?feature=share
(Church Board meeting is postponed to April 9)
Caring Fund Contribution Opportunity April 2, Maundy Thursday and April 5,
Easter Sunday. The Caring Fund is an above budget benevolent fund administered by the Deacon Commission for the purpose of assisting our congregation’s members and community persons in need. The fund is generated by above budget offerings made payable to Bethel College Mennonite Church and designated “caring fund.” There will be fishbowls on the back tables for your donations. Thank you for your continued support and contributions.
Friday, April 3, 2026—Good Friday
You are invited to an ecumenical Good Friday worship service April 3, 7 p.m., at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church (2001 Windsor Drive, Newton). This service will be planned and led by Bethel College Mennonite, Shalom Mennonite, Faith Mennonite, Salem United Methodist, Trinity Heights United Methodist, and St. Matthew’s Episcopal. We are excited to connect with others in our community during this sacred season.
Sunday, April 5. 2026—Easter Sunday—No Sunday School
7 a.m. Easter Sunrise Worship—at the Prouty Farm, 332 N. Hoover Road, Newton; potluck breakfast to follow, please bring an item for breakfast to share
10 a.m. Worship Service to include welcoming new members!  Sermon by Nathan Koontz, music by the Chancel Choir   Note the later start time of worship on Easter Sunday.

This Lent, we are exploring The Work of Imagination, led by material from
Illustrated Ministry.
“This is the work of imagination: to envision a world remade by mercy, to trust that healing is possible even in the shadow of empire, and to practice love that outlasts despair.” Please plan to join us for Sunday morning worship, and consider participating in these special Lenten opportunities:
· Thurs., Apr. 2, 5:30 p.m.: All-Age Maundy Thursday Worship in the Chapel
· Thurs., Apr. 2, 7 p.m.: Maundy Thursday Worship with communion in the
    Sanctuary
· Fri., Apr. 3, 7 p.m.: Ecumenical Good Friday worship service at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church (2001 Windsor Drive, Newton).
· Easter Sunday, Apr. 5: NO Sunday School
* Easter Sunrise Worship @ 7 a.m. at the Prouty Farm, 332 N. Hoover Road,
   Newton. Potluck breakfast to follow, please bring an item for breakfast to
   share.
* Worship Service @ 10 a.m. to include welcoming new members!

The Witness Commission invites you to support Camp Sunflower, an LGBTQ youth camp in Wichita, by attending their Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser: “Serving Queer Joy, One Plate at a Time”! The meal and a silent auction will be held April 25 from 4:30-7:30 at Calvary United Methodist Church, 2525 Rock Rd. Meal tickets are $15 for adults, $7 for children aged 4-10, and free for children under 3. You can purchase tickets on their website or at the door.

Announcement from New Hope Shelter for this Saturday, March 28

Dear New Hope Shelter Friends,
We are so grateful for your continued support of New Hope Shelter. Whether you are a donor, volunteer, church partner, or simply a friend of our mission — you are the reason we are able to serve our community. Today, we’re excited to invite you to something special!

Join Us for Our 1st Annual Baked Goods & Treats Event
Date: Saturday, March 28th
Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Baker Furniture, Chisholm Trail Center, 601 SE 36th St, Newton, KS 67114

New Hope Shelter and Baker Furniture have partnered together to host this wonderful event. Simply come make a donation and pick up a delicious baked good or treat of your choice to take home. All proceeds will go directly toward the cost of our new bus for our residents.
Here’s How It Works:
–Come donate & pick up a baked good or treat — Enjoy homemade pies, cakes, cookies, cupcakes, brownies, and more!
–You could win a Sleeptronic Mattress valued at $999! Each donation made in exchange for a baked good or treat earns you an entry into our prize drawing.
–Receive exclusive coupons — Everyone who donates and picks up a baked good or treat will also get special coupons from Baker Furniture.

We Also Need Your Help Baking!
Would you consider baking something to donate? We’re seeking homemade baked goods and treats — pies, cakes, cookies, cupcakes, brownies, or any sweet treat. Your contribution will make a real difference in our residents’ lives.
Drop-Off Dates & Locations:
Please deliver your baked goods and treats on March 26th, 27th, or 28th at either location below:
New Hope Shelter, 308 S Meridian Rd, Newton, KS 67114
Baker Furniture, 601 SE 36th St, Newton, KS 67114

We would love to see you there! Come make a donation, pick up something delicious, and know that every dollar goes directly toward the cost of our new bus.

Questions? We’re Here to Help:

Tony Nave: 316-285-6338 or tonyn@newhope-shelter.org

New Hope Shelter: 316-283-7711 or info@newhope-shelter.org

Friday April 24 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. there will be a relief kit packing event happening on behalf of Bethel College Service Club and Mennonite Central Committee held at the MCC building, 121 E. 30th St., North Newton. There will be a meal of hotdogs and hamburgers along with some sides and desserts that will be paid for by donation (suggested amount $15). All donations will go back to MCC to make more relief kits! Bethel College’s Woven and Open Road will also be giving a small concert during the time. Following the meal we will be packing relief kits with a goal of 500 kits! Come join us for an evening of singing and service! — Adah Hodge, Bethel College Service Club (See the church bulletin board for flyer and sign up sheet.)

The annual meeting of the Community Playschool Corporation will be Mon., Apr. 13, 7:15 p.m. at the BCMC Fellowship Hall. Interested members of the congregations supporting Community Playschool are invited to attend.

Community Playschool, Inc is happy to announce a celebration for it’s 60th anniversary! EVERYONE, including members of sponsoring churches, former teachers, volunteers, families, students and anyone else, is invited and welcome to join us on Thurs., Apr. 16 from 5:30-7 p.m. for a look back at the history of the preschool. We will have slides and photos, a timeline of the major events and changes, a place for memories and stories and, of course, cake! The classrooms will be open for tours while the main activities will take place in the Fellowship Hall of BCMC. Please plan to come and help us celebrate this monumental occasion!

Simon Koontz is returning this week from a Mennonite Central Committee workshop in Los Angeles entitled Creative Resistance: Art, Faith & Social Change. Education and Service Scholarship Committee (ESSC) provided some support for this experience. We look forward to hearing or seeing some of his ideas from his week in LA. Simon is in his sophomore year at McPherson College.

MOVING TOWARD RIGHT RELATIONS: Join us for a transforming personal accountability training as we seek together to move toward right relations with our Indigenous brothers and sisters. Sponsored by the Kansas Repair Communities, MCC-Central States, and Western District Conference and led by staff from the Coalition to Dismantle the Doctrine of Discovery. Friday, April 24, from 5:30-9:00 p.m. and Saturday, April 25, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. All sessions in the Fellowship Hall of the Bethel College Mennonite Church, North Newton, Kansas. Meals provided Friday evening and Saturday noon. There is no registration fee, but registration is required (deadline April 17). Register HERE! Questions? Please contact Ada Schmidt-Tieszen (adast@bethelks.edu) or 316-842-9751.

Camp Mennoscah Announcements
· Camp Mennoscah reminds all their friends and supporters at BCMC that there remains a $2,500 challenge within your congregation to support the completion of the retreat center. Across our partner churches, this initiative has raised almost $140,000, and just under $2,000 remains available still to be matched here at BCMC. To have YOUR investment in the future of camp doubled, simply write “BCMC match” in the memo line of your check, or text “Match” to 620.755.2583, and a representative of Camp Mennoscah will be happy to pick up your gift.
· The Camp Mennoscah dam will be put in Sun., Mar. 29, at approximately 2 p.m.
You are welcome to help or watch. This is not a task for young ages, but all are invited to watch. Helpers must be of a sufficient age and size to handle heavy planks. Meet at the shelter. Contact 620-297-3290 with questions.
· Summer Camp Staff Needed! A head cook is needed for the PreJunior I Camp, June 21-25. Kitchen staff is needed for all weeks EXCEPT First Camp and Senior High. A nurse is needed for July 19-24. Volunteers for custodial and maintenance are needed for most weeks of camp. Call/text Olivia at 316-293-7313 or email olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for more details.

Men and Boys Retreat is April 17-19. This retreat is sponsored by Mennonite Men of the Plains. Registration will take place either online at https://campmennoscah.campbrainregistration.com or in person at the shed by the basketball court. Please check in at the shed, even if you register online. Lodging is available in the bunkhouses, cabins, or your own tent. There are two 20 amp RV hookups and two 30 amp RV hookups available in the south (boys) cabin area on a pole of the gazebo. The hookups/outlets are not spread out. Camp Mennoscah only has electrical hookups. Meals are available for Saturday evening and Sunday breakfast and lunch. Contact Kevin N. at 316-322-5515. See you soon!

Camp Mennoscah’s wants your stories about the role we have played in your faith! As we continue to race toward the finish line of the retreat center – and likely other projects to follow – personal stories are so meaningful to those who support camp and we would love to publicize your connection to this incredible place. If you are willing to let us publish the ways that Camp Mennoscah has touched your life, please send an email to our Communications office at Eric.litwiller@campmennoscah.org. Include how you were first introduced to Camp Mennoscah, your favorite aspect of camp and why it is your favorite, and how you feel your life is different today than it otherwise might have been were it not for your exposure to this organization, along with anything else you’d like to share. Also please include a good contact method so we can follow up with you to add to the narrative if we need more information. Thank you!

The 2026 Summer Staff (alphabetical order by position) are the following cool folks: Mara Oswald (crafts), Josiah Buller (grounds/maintenance), Noah Schrag (grounds/maintenance), Camryn Entz (lifeguard), Lily Schloneger (lifeguard), Maddie Tegeler (lifeguard), Daniel Miller (nature), Ethan Wilcox (music), and Adah Hodge (office). Say hello and send prayers for a safe, fun, and faith-fulfilling summer!

Online Registration for the 2026 Summer Youth Camps is open.

Early Registration Discount ends April 1! The theme for the summer is “In the Wilderness.” Through the new, strange and unknown of “wilderness,” we will discover the sacred within each person and all creation and meet God there. Summer Youth Camps are for youth in grades 3-12 (Fall 2026). Register at https://campmennoscah.campbrainregistration.com/

The Summer Camp Schedule is as follows:

Junior I—June 14-19, Grades 6, 7 & 8, Fall 2026

PreJunior I—June 21-25, Grades 4 & 5, Fall 2026

First Camp—June 25-27, Grades 3 & 4, Fall 2026

PreJunior II—July 5-9, Grades 4 & 5, Fall 2026

Junior High—July 12-17, Grades 8 & 9, Fall 2026

Junior II—July 19-24, Grades 6, 7 & 8, Fall 2026

Senior High July 26-31, Grades 10-12, Fall 2026 (2026 graduating seniors register on the Graduating Senior Wait List)

Scholarships are available. They will be granted as soon as possible, but full scholarships will not be awarded until after May 1.

1. Thanks to a generous donation, first-time campers and returning campers bringing a first-time camper will automatically receive a $100 scholarship until funds are depleted. Please factor this into your payment before paying full camp fees. If Camp Mennoscah has a record of a camper attending previously, staff will contact parents/guardians. Only one scholarship per camper.

2. Two full scholarships are available for campers needing assistance through a Scholarship Endowment. Campers who are racially and ethnically diverse and/or from non-Mennonite communities will be given priority; all are welcome to apply. Use the Scholarship Request Form at https://campmennoscah.socs.net/vnews/display.v/ART/5e41970817def and include supporting information in the “Amount you are asking in Scholarship” field or email separately. Contact office@campmennoscah.org with questions. Deadline is May 1, 2026.

3. Camp Mennoscah has limited scholarship funds available. Complete the Scholarship Request Form at https://campmennoscah.socs.net/vnews/display.v/ART/5e41970817def Contact us at office@campmennoscah.org with questions.

Bethel College Announcements:
· Sun., March 29: Bethel College Concert Choir and Wind Ensemble spring concert, 4 p.m., Memorial Hall
· Life Enrichment, the series at Bethel College for adults age 60 and older, meets Wednesday mornings in Krehbiel Auditorium. Apr. 1 programs; note time switch): 9:30 a.m., “SEARCHING FOR LIGHT: Through the Lens of a Portrait Photographer,” Jim and Nola Stucky; 10:50 a.m., “RAILEROBOTICS: Inspiration of Today, Technology of Tomorrow,” Newton High School robotics team. See https:/www.bethelks.
edu/academics/life-enrichment/ for a link to the complete spring schedule.
· Sat., Apr. 4: Kauffman Museum bird walk, 7 a.m. start time in the museum parking lot, 2801 N. Main St., North Newton. Experienced birders lead a walk of 1-1.5 hours in Chisholm Park and on Sand Creek Trail
· Mon., Apr. 6: Bethel College will present its 2025 alumni awards in convocation, 11 a.m., Krehbiel Auditorium. Young Alumnus, Kristin E. Wedel ’08 (social work), Providence, R.I., a therapist with a particular interest in new parent issues; Outstanding Alumnus, Virgil Penner ’60 (industrial arts), North Newton, a long- time educator, coach, administrator and visual artist; Distinguished Achievement, Tim Wiens ’74 (social work), Silver Spring, Md., a health services administrator focused on the needs of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
· Now in the Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center: annual Student Art Exhibit, featuring the work of students in Bethel College art classes, in various media, through Apr. 17. Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
· Fri., Apr. 10: Junior recital by Bethel College student Seth Balzer, brass, 7 p.m.
    Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center
· Sat., Apr. 11: Senior recital by Bethel College student Caleb Koontz, piano,
   4 p.m. Administration Building chapel
· Sat., Apr. 11: Senior recital by Bethel College student Caleb Garber, cello, 7 p.m.
   Administration Building chapel

Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale (KMRS) is April 10 & 11, 2026 at the Kansas State Fair Grounds in Hutchinson. Your participation supports Mennonite Central Committee’s (MCC) relief, development, and peace-building work around the world.
· Calling all bakers! Bags and pie tins are ready to pick up at the back of the sanctuary today after worship. Sign up to make zwieback, pie, and other baked goods. We are almost to our pie goal, but need dozens more zwieback to feed the multitudes!
· My Coins Count continues in the Gathering Place. Place your coins, bills, and checks in the jug each Sunday until the sale to help fund MCC education programs!
· THANK YOU to the BCMC Sunday School classes who help underwrite KMRS costs. Thanks to generous donors, all expenses are covered before the sale so all sale proceeds go directly to Mennonite Central Committee programs.
· Donations needed!
—Silent and General Auctions are accepting items such as vehicles, furniture,
   and other items. Let a BCMC liaison know so we can submit photos and work
   with you on getting the item to the sale. Donated items can be viewed on
   KMRS website a https://kansas.mccsale.org/auctions/sunflower-auctions/
—Children’s Auction is accepting new, in-the-package items that appeal to
   children and youth such as board games, Lego sets, etc. for the Saturday
   Children’s Auction.
—Plant Sale accepts anything related to gardening — bulbs, seeds, garden or
house plants, trees, and tools such as garden hose and rakes. Bring donated auction and plant items to BCMC’s south entrance on Friday, April 12, and a liaison will make sure it gets to the sale.
· Volunteers Needed: All hands on deck! The KS Mennonite Relief Sale is powered by over 1,000 volunteers each year and there are many openings available, big and small. Check out the available positions at https://kansas.mccsale.org/volunteer/ and consider signing up for a slot or two on the Sign-Ups. There is something for everyone!
· Urgent Needs: See the flyer on the KMRS table in the Gathering Place. Help us find someone willing to help with these positions: New Year Cookies Frying Committee, Enthusiastic Ringman for Quilt Auction, Verenike Frying for Feeding the Multitude. Tap shoulders. Pray someone will step up to help. Contact Jim Robb at 620-747-0186; jimrobb2021@gmail.com for more info.
· For more information:
–KMRS posterboard & table in the Gathering Place for Run for Relief forms,
   the My Coins Count jug, urgent service opportunities and more.
—KMRS website: https://kansas.mccsale.org/
–-BCMC liaisons: Steve & Elaine Schurr, Brad & Diane Born, and William &
   Esther Kreider Eash.

Women & Girls come join the annual Mennonite Women in Mission’s potluck salad supper Mon., Apr. 20, 6 p.m. at Tabor Mennonite Church, rural Newton. Guest speaker, Kate Mast presents “Our Time, Our Stories, Our Stuff.” This presentation encourages us to think kindly about our stuff in relationship to our time and the stories we tell about our lives. Please bring a potluck salad and one small item that is a treasure of yours to share with your table group. RSVP not required. More info: mennonitewomeninmission.org or their Facebook page.

Mennonite Central Committee Announcements
Urgent Opening, apply by April 17! MCC Appalachia Build (formerly SWAP) home repair program is seeking summer staff in Kimball, West Virginia or Elkhorn City, Kentucky. These three-month positions for Job Site Coordinators and Meals Coordinators will allow you to explore new cultures, develop skills, build friendships and live out your faith. Applicants should be at least 19 years old, but the roles are not limited to young adults. An hourly wage plus room and board are provided. For more information and to apply, visit mcc.org/careers. Or contact RoxyReyes@mcc.org

MCC is recruiting Canner Operators to join its mobile meat canning team, which prepares about 600,000 cans of meat annually for global communities in need. These operators travel to 30 U.S. locations from October to April, managing machinery, operating steam and pressure vessels, coordinating volunteers, and ensuring compliance with USDA regulations. Make new friends while participating in a unique service adventure! Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until April 25^th OR until position is filled. For the full job description and to apply: Canner Operator or contact MCC at 1-888-563-4676.

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
For Mennonite Church USA “Women’s Voices” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News from around the world” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “Seeds of Peace” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
Mennonite Voluntary Service
God is calling individuals ages 20+ to vibrant communities across the country to participate in Mennonite Voluntary Service (MVS). MVS is accepting applications for the 2026-27 term. Serve with nonprofits, live in community, and connect with a local church.
Placements are available in the following locations: Alamosa, Colorado; Chicago, Illinois; San Francisco, California; and Tucson, Arizona.
Ready to jump in? Go to MennoniteMission.net/MVS to learn more and apply

Dear Intersections readers:
Greetings! The spring 2026 issue of Intersections on “Digital Innovation,” compiled by Mennonite Central Committee program skills lead Olivia Mutabazi, is now on the MCC website. See link here. Authors reflect on the opportunities for and challenges facing digital innovation, with articles from Ukraine, Canada, the United States, Lebanon, Rwanda, DR Congo, and Zimbabwe.
I am happy to introduce Sara Wyngaarden as the new co-editor of Intersections. Sara is MCC’s monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning lead. She previously served as program officer for MCC in Guatemala and with MCC’s one-year SALT program in India.
As always, please do reach out with any thoughts or questions you might have about Intersections!
Peace, Alain Epp Weaver

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

Amy Yoder McGloughlin, MC USA denominational minister for education, reflects on her call to ministry and how congregations can nurture the next generation of pastors through spiritual practices, mentoring, intergenerational worship and intentional encouragement of God’s call. Read her Menno Snapshots blog here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/nurture-a-call-to-ministry/

Stay informed about MC USA-affiliated schools and higher eds by subscribing to “Prayers for Education.” MC USA’s quarterly e-newsletter features prayer requests submitted by our Mennonite educational institutions and organized by week. Subscribe here: https://bit.ly/467dSR7 Read the current issue here: https://bit.ly/4kFXFbi

The theme for the “2026 Lent at Home Worship Guide,” taken from Leader magazine, is “Dwelling in Dissonance. The “At Home” series is intended for all ages and life stages to deepen the experience of the season. Available in English or Spanish. Download it here.

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Ben and Laurel Woodward-Breckbill, and their two children, are wrapping up their first two-year mission term at the Paris (France) Mennonite Center and will begin their second term soon. Pray for clarity as they plan their next term, and pray that their family would be able to find time for rest and connection.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for wisdom and clarity as we discern God’s vision for new church plants and emerging ministries. [Church Planting Commission]

Worship Service and Announcements at BCMC–2026 03 22

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
March 22, 2026

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 for Sunday, March 22:

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
March 22, 2026
5th Sunday of Lent: True Allegiance

Christ Candle Lighting

Centering Music— There Is No Shadow (Brenda Portman)
Will Wiebe-Friesen

Welcome and Call to Worship— Mary Ellen Hodge
One: Come into God’s presence, you who imagine and you who seek, you who disrupt and you who repair.
All: By the Spirit, we gather in hope.
One: Come into God’s keeping, you who bear the divine image, you who are in this world but not of it, you who feel tested or tried.
All: In Christ, we gather and we belong.
One: Come into God’s presence, singing for joy and for justice; bringing prayer and worship, your most faithful acts of resistance.
All: To God be the glory! We gather to praise!

Opening Prayer

*Hymn—Praise with Joy the World’s Creator—VT 428

Children and Youth Conversation—Carol Flickinger

Worship Music—Were You There (arr. Bob Chilcott)
Chancel Choir; Joel Garber, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist

Scripture Reading—Romans 13: 1, 6-7—Mike Claassen

*Hymn—How Can We Worship Caesar’s Cross— VT 308

Scripture Reading—Mark 12:13-17

Sermon—Trick(y) Questions—Joanna Harader

Breath Prayer—Give to the world what is the world’s./Give to God what is God’s

*Hymn—I Bind My Heart This Tide—VT 556

Receiving the Offering and Prayers of God’s People—Mary Ellen Hodge

*Hymn—Go Now in Peace, Worship Continues—VT 829

*Charge and Benediction

Postlude–Wer nur den lieben Gott lässt walten (J.S. Bach)

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Keyboard—Will Wiebe-Friesen
Audio visual—Ben Lichti

The Week at BCMC: March 22-29, 2026
Sunday, March 22, 2026—5th Sunday of Lent:
9:30 a.m.   Worship           10:30 a.m. Coffee/water/tea in the Gathering Place

YouTube Link for the worship service this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/W3GMoCrroxU?feature=share

Monday, March 23, 2026
10 a.m.    Library Committee—Room 14
7 p.m.      Faith Formation Commission—Fellowship Hall
Tuesday, March 24, 2026
11 a.m.     Poems and Prayers Group for Lent—Chapel
Wednesday, March 25, 2026
6 p.m.      Wednesday supper in Fellowship Hall—Please bring your own tableware to facilitate the clean-up—Menu: Breakfast casserole with hash browns, ham, and cheddar, banana muffins
6:30 p.m. Gifts Discernment Committee—Room 14
7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir Rehearsal—Sanctuary Chancel
Thursday, March 26, 2026
9:30 a.m. Library Committee—Room 14
6 p.m.       Chancel Bells Rehearsal—Room B7
7 p.m.       Deacon Commission—Room 14
Sunday, March 29. 2026—Palm Sunday
Sermon by Joanna Harader

BCMC Offering for Mar. 15: Gen. Fund $25,977.36; Wed. Supper $150.20; Library Reserve Fund $7; Kitchen Fund $17; Al Penner Mem. $780.

All children from 8th grade and younger are invited to be part of a singing group that will do worship music on Palm Sunday, March 29.  We will meet for a 15 minute practice after worship this morning, before Sunday School, in the Fellowship Hall. Contact Verlene Garber if you have any questions.

BCMC’s Lenten Banners illustrate a progression created around the motif of the crown of thorns. The series is about the contrasts, emotion, and movement of the Lenten season. The artist, Anne Friesen Birky, lives in Denver, CO with her family and is the daughter of Duane and Elizabeth Friesen. Thank you to Matt Koontz for organizing the banner installation each week.

You are invited to share an Easter lily for the sanctuary on Easter Sunday, Apr. 5.  BCMC will purchase the lilies. The cost will be $10 per lily. Make checks to BCMC designated “Flower Fund.” Contributors may pick up lilies to take home after the Easter worship service. You will be able to designate in honor of someone or in memory of someone with your Easter lily.  There will be a table in the Gathering Place this Sun., Mar. 22 for you to sign up for a lily, or email the church office.

This Lent, we are exploring The Work of Imagination, led by material from Illustrated Ministry.
“This is the work of imagination: to envision a world remade by mercy, to trust that healing is possible even in the shadow of empire, and to practice love that outlasts despair.” Please plan to join us for Sunday morning worship, and consider participating in these special Lenten opportunities:
· Wednesday, Mar. 25, 6 p.m.: Church Community Supper in Fellowship Hall
· Thurs., Apr. 2, 5:30 p.m.: All-Age Maundy Thursday Worship in the Chapel
· Thurs., Apr. 2, 7 p.m.: Maundy Thursday Worship with communion in the
    Sanctuary
· Fri., Apr. 3, 7 p.m.: Ecumenical Good Friday worship service at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church (2001 Windsor Drive, Newton).
· Easter Sunday, Apr. 5: NO Sunday School
* Easter Sunrise Worship @ 7 a.m. at the Prouty Farm, 332 N. Hoover Road,
   Newton
* Worship Service @ 10 a.m. to include welcoming new members!

Poems and Prayers Group for Lent
You are invited to poems and prayers in the BCMC chapel on Tuesdays at 11 during Lent, an informal time to bring a poem or prayer that speaks to you and share it with the group. Readings will be followed by silence and discussion. Your selection could be something that you have written, or something that someone else has written. You do not need to consider yourself a poet to attend, simply bring an open heart and joy for the truth revealed when words and phrases rub in illumined ways.

“Mennonites in Poland” is being highlighted in the church library along with the Mennonite Polish Studies Association Newsletter. This newsletter summarizes the 2025 Poland trip led by Mark Jantzen and John Thiesen which many in the congregation have taken or will take this summer. We also have many new books that were donated and are now ready for checkout. Please stop by and enjoy!

Caring Fund Contribution Opportunity April 2, Maundy Thursday and April 5,
Easter Sunday. The Caring Fund is an above budget benevolent fund administered by the Deacon Commission for the purpose of assisting our congregation’s members and community persons in need. The fund is generated by above budget offerings made payable to Bethel College Mennonite Church and designated “caring fund.” Thank you for your continued support and contributions.

Shalom Mennonite Church, 800 E. 1st St., Newton, will host the next in-person meeting of the Kansas Repair Communities, Mon., March 23, at 5:30 p.m. This is a good chance to find out about a group of Newton and Wichita area folks who have been working for the past year to build relationships with the indigenous nations in Kansas and to move toward legislation regarding Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women/People (MMIP) in Kansas. Snacks will be provided.

You are invited to an ecumenical Good Friday worship service on April 3, 7 p.m., at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church (2001 Windsor Drive, Newton). This service will be planned and led by Bethel College Mennonite, Shalom Mennonite, Faith Mennonite, Salem United Methodist, Trinity Heights United Methodist, and St. Matthew’s Episcopal. We are excited to connect with others in our community during this sacred season.

Our local No Kings peaceful protest will be Saturday, March 28, 3-5 p.m. at the Harvey County Courthouse. Prior to this, there will be a No Kings event in Wichita from noon-1:30 at Douglas and Broadway. You are invited to show up for one or both with enthusiasm and a poster.

Rooting our Stories: Reveling in 50 years of Queer and Trans Anabaptist Resilience
Join the Brethren Mennonite Council (BMC) for LGBT Interests for a gathering rooted in sacred story and joyful revelry, as they mark their 50th Anniversary May 29-31 in Minneapolis! This festive weekend will include storytelling, singing, ritual/worship, workshops, artmaking, games, shared meals, and honoring this incredible 50-year legacy of LGBTQIA+ Anabaptist resistance and resilience. Event details, safety/accessibility info, and registration on the 50th webpage, www.bmclgbt.org/50th.

Would any of us survive a month in poverty? It is difficult for those of us who have enough to truly understand the situations that families living in poverty experience every day; the decisions they have to make, and fears and frustrations they feel. This is an invitation to ‘walk a mile’ in the shoes of those facing poverty by participating in the upcoming Poverty Simulation. Peace Connections, Newton is offering a Poverty Simulation Thurs., March 26 from 9:30-noon at Salem United Methodist Church. There is no cost for this event. The simulation provides participants with the opportunity to assume the role of a low-income family member living on a limited budget and is divided into four 15-minute sessions, each of which represents one week in which you must provide for your family and maintain your home.
Contact Peace Connections with questions: 316-284-0000 ext. 1 (office)
316-667-5181 (cell: call / text) or www.peaceconnections.org

Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale (KMRS) is April 12 & 13, 2024 at the Kansas State Fair Grounds in Hutchinson. Your participation supports Mennonite Central Committee’s (MCC) relief, development, and peace-building work around the world.
· Calling all bakers! Bags and pie tins are ready to pick up at the back of the sanctuary today after worship. Sign up to make zwieback, pie, and other baked goods.
· My Coins Count continues in the Gathering Place. Place your coins, bills, and checks in the jug each Sunday until the sale to help fund MCC education programs!
· THANK YOU to the BCMC Sunday School classes who help underwrite KMRS costs. Thanks to generous donors, all expenses are covered before the sale so all sale proceeds go directly to Mennonite Central Committee programs.
· Donations needed!
—Silent and General Auctions are accepting items such as vehicles, furniture,
   and other items. Let a BCMC liaison know so we can submit photos and work
   with you on getting the item to the sale.
—Children’s Auction is accepting new, in-the-package items that appeal to children and youth such as board games, Lego sets, etc. for the Saturday Children’s Auction.
—Plant Sale accepts anything related to gardening — bulbs, seeds, garden or house plants, trees, and tools such as garden hose and rakes.
—Bring donated auction and plant items to BCMC’s south entrance on Friday, April 12, and a liaison will make sure it gets to the sale.
· Volunteers Needed: The KMRS website has many volunteer opportunities –making BOHNE BEROGGI on April 4, or many time slots in one of the booths during the sale. If you need help signing up, alert a liaison.
For more information:
—KMRS posterboard & table in the Gathering Place for Run for Relief form, the My Coins Count jug, urgent service opportunities and more.
—KMRS website: https://kansas.mccsale.org/
—BCMC liaisons: Steve & Elaine Schurr, Brad & Diane Born, and William & Esther Kreider Eash.

Register now to be a part of the MCC Sale Run for Relief – a 5K run/walk along a paved path by a creek!  Walkers and runners of all ages and abilities are welcome! Entrants receive a t-shirt and a New Year’s cookie. Deadline for a t-shirt is March 27!  Help support relief and development around the world even further by asking others to sponsor your run/walk! Scan the QR code on the poster hanging (insert location at your church) or for more info visit https://kansas.mccsale.org/

Camp Mennoscah reminds all their friends and supporters at BCMC that there remains a $2,500 challenge within your congregation to support the completion of the retreat center. Across our partner churches, this initiative has raised almost $140,000, and just under $2,000 remains available still to be matched here at BCMC. To have YOUR investment in the future of camp doubled, simply write “BCMC match” in the memo line of your check, or text “Match” to 620.755.2583, and a representative of Camp Mennoscah will be happy to pick up your gift.

Bethel College Announcements:
Sun., March 22): Kauffman Museum’s program with Carolyn Zeisset, “Caught in the Middle Between Voices of Conscience and Voices of Patriotism,” has moved to Zoom, 3 p.m., https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89861064083?pwd=C7M8myHWBtMmLZpKGEzavzY0V4KLZa.1 Zeisset will look at parallels in her young adult historical novel Caught in the Middle with stories of conscientious objectors told in the current special exhibit at the museum, “Voices of Conscience: Peace Witness in the Great War.”
· Life Enrichment, the series at Bethel College for adults age 60 and older, meets Wednesday mornings in Krehbiel Auditorium. March 25 programs: 9:30 a.m., “Hippie Inc.: The Misunderstood Subculture that Changed the Way We Live,” Dr. Michael Klassen, University of Northern Iowa; 10:50 a.m., “Mennonite Disaster Service Cabinet Shop Operation,” Cleo Koop, MDS. See https://www.bethelks.
edu/academics/life-enrichment/ for details and a link to the spring schedule.
· Fri., March 27: The annual Student Art Exhibit opens in the Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center, featuring the work of students in Bethel College art classes, in various media, through April 17 (reception TBA). Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
· Sun., March 29: Bethel College Concert Choir and Wind Ensemble spring concert, 4 p.m., Memorial Hall
· SAVE THE DATE: Mon., April 6, Bethel College will honor its 2025 alumni award winners (Virgil Penner, Kristin Wedel, Tim Wiens) in convocation.

Hesston College will host the annual Melva Kauffman Lecture Series Mar. 25 and 26, welcoming peace studies scholar and Hesston College alumna Dr. Angela Lederach for a series titled “Slow Peace: Lessons from Grassroots Peacebuilders in Colombia.” Lectures are Wed., Mar. 25 at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. and Thurs., Mar. 26 at 7 p.m. All events are free, open to the public, and held at Hesston Mennonite Church with a reception following evening lectures. More info: hesston.edu/melva.

Men and Boys Retreat, sponsored by Mennonite Men of the Plains, is Apr. 17-19.
Registration is online at https://campmennoscah.campbrainregistration.com or in person at the shed by the basketball court. Please check in at the shed, even if you register online. Lodging is available in the bunkhouses, cabins, or your own tent. There are two 20 amp RV hookups and two 30 amp RV hookups available in the south (boys) cabin area on a pole of the gazebo. The hookups/outlets are not spread out. Camp Mennoscah only has electrical hookups. Meals are available for Sat. evening and Sun. breakfast and lunch. Contact Kevin N. at 316-322-5515.

A message from the Et Cetera Shop, Newton
We are BUSTIN’ AT THE SEAMS with housewares and book donations! We have explored numerous options to process these items more quickly, but none seemed to be the solution. We are asking for the support of our supporting churches to help us process these items, and we are reducing our prices to move them more quickly. Are there youth groups, men’s groups, women’s groups, or any individuals who would like to help us out? Give us a call at 316-283-9461 to schedule a time to come in! Please invite your friends, family, and congregants to join in.
This DOES NOT mean we will be turning donations away. We are just trying to move the stock we have as quickly as we can!

The church office has received information about high school students from Germany seeking host families for the 2026-27 school year. If you would like more information, please contact the office.

For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “Extending Beyond” press here

March 22
Just Peace Pilgrimages — South Africa Racial Justice Pilgrimage Hosted by Iziko Lamaqabane — This South African solidarity learning pilgrimage will explore the long history and legacy of settler colonialism and apartheid, which was an unjust socio-political policy that fostered racial segregation. The pilgrimage will focus on the social constructs created around race, land dispossession and how they so thoroughly defined, and continue to define, South African society. Dates: September 9-22, 2026; the optional safari extends the trip by 3 days
Registration deadline: July 15
Contact Stephanie Weaver at StephanieW@MennoniteMission.net or visit MennoniteMission.net/JustPeace to learn more!

For Anabaptist Disabilities Network “Opening Doors Blog-Inclusion in Cambodia press here
For Mennonite Disaster Service “On the Level” press here

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
WDC office schedule and Resource Library updates: Beginning the week of March 16-20, WDC office hours will be Monday – Friday 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (instead of opening at 8:00 a.m.) and beginning in April the office will be closed on Fridays due to staff schedules. Also, to enhance use of WDC Resource Library materials a secure locker will soon be located just next to the book drop-off outside the WDC office entrance, for after hours / weekend pick up of materials that have been checked out from the WDC Resource Library! To arrange for check-out and pick up of materials, contact the WDC office at 316-283-6300 or wdc@mennowdc.org, or contact the Resource Library Director at crlib@mennowdc.org.

Ecumenical Advocacy Days – April 20-22, 2026
Dear Bethel College Mennonite,Psalm 24 declares that “the Earth is the Lord’s and everything in it.” This Psalm reminds us that we are bound to one another in responsibility, and can only be human together. In 2026, our nation faces massive upheaval and multiple crises. But as Christians, we remain hopeful as we persevere in the midst of fear and uncertainty. We remain true to the gospel, true to Jesus’s call to love our neighbor as ourselves. Given the many challenges we face, it is critical that people of faith come to Washington, D.C., to raise our voices.

Join us in Washington, D.C., April 20–22, 2026, as we draw on our shared faith traditions to inspire one another, and call on Congress to commit to Protecting People, Peace and Planet! Through worship, workshops, solidarity and Congressional visits, we will bring together a diverse group of Christians to remind Congress of our shared responsibility to care for all that belongs to God. Register today!Mennonite Central Committee U.S. is a sponsor of Ecumenical Advocacy Days. Please reach out to npjm@mcc.org with questions about the event or logistics.Warm regards,Galen Fitzkee
Legislative Associate
MCC U.S. National Peace & Justice Ministries

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
MC USA’s 2026 Lent at Home Worship Guide invites households to prepare for Holy Week with simple rituals, Scripture from John’s Gospel and opportunities for reflection. This guide, titled “Dwelling in Dissonance,” helps all ages hold grief and hope together, as we walk with Jesus toward resurrection. Available in English and Spanish. Download it here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/lent-at-home-2026

Nathan Luitjens reflects on MC USA’s annual Conference Ministers’ Retreat and how MC USA leaders are re-centering their work around God’s dream of shalom, reconciliation and faithful presence in local contexts. Read his Menno Snapshots blog here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/focusing-on-what-matters/

Webinar recording available: In “Engaging Our Grief and Finding Resilience,” hosts Ann Blackwood and Ruth Johnston explore how grief shows up in our lives and in the world, providing tools and practices to move through it with honesty, care and spiritual resilience. This webinar was sponsored by The Corinthian Plan, MC USA’s health care and wellbeing plan for pastors and church workers. Watch the recording here: https://bit.ly/4aQ9to8

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Colleen and Pablo Fast have been serving in Brazil for more than 30 years. Praise God that the Brazilian churches they serve with are experiencing a time of growth, with multiple families being sent out to plant more churches and the already-established churches increasing the number of services they offer.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for the WDC Gifts Discernment Committee as they listen for the leading of God’s Spirit in selecting nominees for elected leadership positions in our conference, and give thanks for those who say “yes” when invited to serve.

Worship Service and Announcements at BCMC–2026 03 15

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
March 15, 2026

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 for Sunday, March 15:

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
March 15, 2026
4th Sunday of Lent: Accountable Leadership

Christ Candle Lighting

Centering Music—There is a Balm in Gilead (Dobrinski)—Chancel Bells; Verlene Garber, director

Welcome and Call to Worship—Kevin Neufeld

One: Come into God’s presence, you who imagine and you who seek, you who disrupt and you who repair.
All: By the Spirit, we gather in hope.
One: Come into God’s embrace, you who seek a good shepherd, you who long to be known and protected, you who are far off and you who are near.
All: In Christ, we gather as one flock.
One: Come into God’s presence, singing for joy and for justice; bringing prayer and worship, your most faithful acts of resistance.
All: To God be the glory! We gather to praise!

Opening Prayer

*Hymn—Here in This Place— VT 10

Children and Youth Conversation—Esther Koontz

Worship Music—Just a Closer Walk with Thee (Greer)—Chancel Bells; Verlene Garber, director; Westen Gehring, Clarinet

Scripture Reading—Ezekiel 34:1–10—Zona Galle

*Hymn—O Thou, in Whose Presence— VT 600

Scripture Reading—John 10:1–18

Sermon— Opening the Gate— Nathan Koontz

Breath Prayer—Christ knows his own/and Christ knows me

*Hymn—I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say—VT 536

Receiving the Offering and Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Go, My Friends, in Grace—VT 810

*Charge and Benediction

Postlude

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Keyboard—Karen Unruh
Audio visual—William Eash

The Week at BCMC: March 15-22, 2026
Sunday, March 15, 2026—4th Sunday of Lent:
9:30 a.m.   Worship           10:30 a.m. Coffee/water/tea in the Gathering Place

YouTube Link for the worship service this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/tLYiiGOCLhk?feature=share

Tuesday, March 17, 2026
11 a.m.     Poems and Prayers Group for Lent—Chapel
4 p.m.       Worship Commission—Room 14
7 p.m.       Women’s Fellowship—MCC Center, 121 E. 30th St., North Newton
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
6 p.m.      Wednesday supper in Fellowship Hall—Please bring your own tableware to facilitate the clean-up—Menu: Stacked enchiladas (beef), salad, ice cream
6:30 p.m. Gifts Discernment Committee—Room 14
7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir Rehearsal—Sanctuary Chancel
Thursday, March 19, 2026
3 p.m.       Cancer Support Group—Nursery
4 p.m.       Witness Commission—Room 14
6 p.m.        Chancel Bells Rehearsal—Room B7
Sunday, March 22, 2026—Fifth Sunday of Lent
9:30 a.m.   Worship with sermon by Joanna Harader; music by Chancel Choir

BCMC Offering for Mar. 8: General $10,506; Wed. Supper $132; Kitchen Fund $29; Women’s Fellowship $50; Al Penner Mem. $130.

You are invited to share an Easter lily for the sanctuary on Easter Sunday, Apr. 5. BCMC will purchase the lilies. The cost will be $10 per lily. Make checks to BCMC designated “Flower Fund.” Contributors may pick up lilies to take home after the Easter worship service. You will be able to designate in honor of someone or in memory of someone with your Easter lily. There will be a table in the Gathering Place this Sun., Mar. 15 for you to sign up for a lily, or email the church office.

This Lent, we will explore The Work of Imagination, led by material from Illustrated Ministry. “This is the work of imagination: to envision a world remade by mercy, to trust that healing is possible even in the shadow of empire, and to practice love that outlasts despair.” Please plan to join us for Sunday morning worship, and consider participating in these special Lenten opportunities:
· Sundays, Mar. 15—29 during Sunday School hour: elective Sunday school class using The Work of Imagination devotionals, in the Chapel
· Wednesdays, Mar. 18 & 25, 6 p.m.: Church Community Suppers in Fellowship Hall
· Thurs., Apr. 2, 5:30 p.m.: All-Age Maundy Thursday Worship in the Chapel
· Thurs., Apr. 2, 7 p.m.: Maundy Thursday Worship with communion in the
    Sanctuary
· Fri., Apr. 3, 7 p.m.: Ecumenical Good Friday worship service at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church (2001 Windsor Drive, Newton).
· Easter Sunday, Apr. 5: NO Sunday School
* Easter Sunrise Worship @ 7 a.m.
* Worship Service @ 10 a.m. to include welcoming new members!

Poems and Prayers Group for Lent  You are invited to poems and prayers in the BCMC chapel on Tuesdays at 11 during Lent, an informal time to bring a poem or prayer that speaks to you and share it with the group. Readings will be followed by silence and discussion. Your selection could be something that you have written, or something that someone else has written. You do not need to consider yourself a poet to attend, simply bring an open heart and joy for the truth revealed when words and phrases rub in illumined ways.

A handout with “Prayers & Practices for Peace in a Time of War” is available in the Gathering Place.

The family of Al Penner wishes to thank BCMC for all the love, support, and caring during this difficult time of health issues, death, and loss. We have been so blessed by this community and are so grateful. Sue Penner and Family

Women’s Fellowship General Meeting will be Tues., March 17, 7 p.m. at the MCC Center, 121 East 30th Street. This is a worknight so come and enjoy working with others on some of the MCC projects. Refreshments provided.

Pastor Nathan Koontz will be on vacation March 16 through 22.

Readers needed for a staged reading of a new play Nothing to be Done, a 30 minute one-act, by Lauren Friesen. Rehearsal will be April 1, 7 p.m. for one hour in the BCMC Chapel. The staged reading, with an audience, will be Thurs., April 9, 7 p.m. with 2 female and 2 male roles. This is an absurdist, anti-war play. Contact Lauren Friesen at lfriesen@umich.edu if you are interested.

All children from 8th grade and younger are invited to be part of a singing group that will do worship music on Palm Sunday, March 29. We will meet for a 15 minute practice before Sunday School on March 15 and March 22 in the Fellowship Hall. Contact Verlene Garber if you have any questions.

Community Playschool, Inc is happy to announce a celebration for it’s 60th anniversary! EVERYONE, including members of sponsoring churches, former teachers, volunteers, families, students and anyone else, is invited and welcome to join us on Thurs., Apr. 16 from 5:30-7 p.m. for a look back at the history of the preschool. We will have slides and photos, a timeline of the major events and changes, a place for memories and stories and, of course, cake! The classrooms will be open for tours while the main activities will take place in the fellowship hall (lower level) of BCMC. Please plan to come and help us celebrate this monumental occasion!

“Mennonites in Poland” is currently being highlighted in the church library along with the Mennonite Polish Studies Association Newsletter. This newsletter summarizes the 2025 Poland trip led by Mark Jantzen and John Thiesen which many in the congregation have taken or will take this summer. We also have many new books that were donated and are now ready for checkout. Please stop by and enjoy!

The BCMC Immigration Task Group wants to thank those from the church who helped organize or participated in the Justice Symposium on Immigration Feb. 25-27. Also, a huge thank you to those who made soup or cookies, or set-up, served, and cleaned up after the meal the church provided for symposium participants and wider Newton community members. The symposium was a great success, as participants heard from author and immigration advocate Karen Gonzalez about “Grace and Compassion in the Immigration Conversation”, along with other immigration related issues. A variety of other presenters or activities during the 3 days, included a Know Your Rights Training, and 3 presenters from the Kansas Immigration Coalition in a panel discussion. The meal at BCMC occurred before the panel presentation, and it allowed participants to dialogue and build important community relations with each other. Clearly, this was an important cog in advancing the cause of immigration rights, and support for the immigrant community in the Newton area.

Shalom Mennonite Church, 800 E. 1st St., Newton, will host the next in-person meeting of the Kansas Repair Communities, Mon., March 23, at 5:30 p.m. This is a good chance to find out about a group of Newton and Wichita area folks who have been working for the past year to build relationships with the indigenous nations in Kansas and to move toward legislation regarding Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women/People (MMIP) in Kansas. Snacks will be provided.

Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale (KMRS) is April 12 & 13, 2024 at the Kansas State Fair Grounds in Hutchinson, KS. Your participation supports MCC’s relief, development, and peace-building work around the world.
· Calling all bakers! Bags and pie tins are ready to pick up at the back of the sanctuary today after worship. Sign up to make zwieback, pie, and other baked goods.
· The My Coins Count drive to collect coins, bills, and checks to help fund education projects around the world continues in the Gathering Place. Place your coins, bills, and checks in the jug each Sunday until the sale!
· THANK YOU to the BCMC Sunday School classes who help underwrite KMRS costs. Thanks to generous donors, all expenses are covered before the sale so all sale proceeds go directly to Mennonite Central Committee programs.
· Donations needed! Do you have an item to donate to the silent auction, children’s auction, or general auction? Check the KMRS website for more information or speak with a BCMC liaison.
· Do you have a green thumb? Now is the time to divide your bulbs to share with Plants & Things. They can sell just about any fruit, tree, vegetable or house plant…and items used for gardening such as shovels, trowels, new gardening gloves.
· Volunteer opportunities: Check out the sale website for volunteer needs during the sale. Sign up on the website to help make VERENIKA (on March 21) or BOHNE BEROGGI (April 4) for the sale.
· We are gathering new, in-the-package items for this year’s Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale Children’s Auction, and your donations are a huge part of making the event a success! Consider talking with the youth in your church about what items they’d be excited to bid on—but you can never go wrong with favorites like Hot Wheels, Barbies, board games, LEGO sets, art kits, and sports equipment. Additional popular item categories include: building sets, craft and activity kits, puzzles, plush animals, outdoor toys. To donate: Items may be given to your MCC Liaison for delivery to the Sale, or brought directly to the Pride of Kansas building on Fri. or Sat. morning (Apr. 10-11) before 8:30 a.m. We’re also looking for volunteers to help clerk the Children’s Auction at this year’s Relief Sale. This is an important role that helps the auction run smoothly. Because the sale can be loud, this job requires good hearing and the ability to follow bids clearly. If you’re attentive, comfortable in a busy and exciting environment, and willing to serve, we would be grateful for your help! If interested in clerking, contact Brad Kohlman at bkohlman@conradeinsurance.com Thank you for helping support the Children’s Auction and the work of MCC!
For more Information:
*KMRS posterboard & table in the Gathering Place for information and forms for Run for Relief, as well as the My Coins Count jug.
* KMRS website: https://kansas.mccsale.org/
* BCMC liaisons: Steve & Elaine Schurr, William & Esther Kreider Eash, and
Brad & Diane Born.

Bethel College Announcements: Bethel College is on spring break Mar. 16-20. Most offices and services are open but some may be on reduced hours. The Regier Art Gallery in the Fine Arts Center is closed. There is no Life Enrichment this week.
· Sun., Mar. 22: Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum program with Carolyn Zeisset, “Caught in the Middle Between Voices of Conscience and Voices of Patriotism,” 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum. Zeisset will look at parallels in her young adult historical novel Caught in the Middle with stories of conscientious objectors told in the current special exhibit at the museum, “Voices of Conscience: Peace Witness in the Great War.”
· Sun., Mar. 29: Bethel College Concert Choir and Wind Ensemble spring concert, 4 p.m., Memorial Hall

Hesston College will host the annual Melva Kauffman Lecture Series Mar. 25 and 26, welcoming peace studies scholar and Hesston College alumna Dr. Angela Lederach for a series titled “Slow Peace: Lessons from Grassroots Peacebuilders in Colombia.” Dr. Lederach will speak Wed., Mar. 25 at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. and Thurs., Mar. 26 at 7 p.m. All events are free, open to the public, and held at Hesston Mennonite Church with a reception following evening lectures. More info: hesston.edu/melva.

Hesston College Bel Canto Singers Concert
Bel Canto Singers will perform their home concert titled “Songs of Hope for a World in Need” at Hesston Mennonite Church on Tuesday, March 24 at 7 p.m. The home concert follows Bel Canto’s 10-day spring break tour throughout the eastern United States, March 13 to 22. Bel Canto is directed by Interim Music Director Greg Bontrager. The concert is free and open to all.

Join guest conductor Anya Pogorelova for the Newton Mid Kansas Symphony Orchestra spring concert Sat., Mar. 21, 3 p.m. in the Newton High School Auditorium. A concert designed for the whole family with a special family ticket price of $20 to families of all sizes. Advance tickets for sale online, and at Faith and Life Bookstore. Tickets also available the day of the concert at the door. https://nmkso.org/tickets/

Women & Girls come join the annual Mennonite Women in Mission’s potluck salad supper Mon., Apr. 20, 6 p.m. at Tabor Mennonite Church, rural Newton. Guest speaker, Kate Mast presents “Our Time, Our Stories, Our Stuff.” This presentation encourages us to think kindly about our stuff in relationship to our time and the stories we tell about our lives. Please bring a potluck salad and one small item that is a treasure of yours to share with your table group. RSVP not required. More info: mennonitewomeninmission.org or their Facebook page.

Men and Boys Retreat, sponsored by Mennonite Men of the Plains, is Apr. 17-19. Registration is online at https://campmennoscah.campbrainregistration.com or in person at the shed by the basketball court. Please check in at the shed, even if you register online. Lodging is available in the bunkhouses, cabins, or your own tent. There are two 20 amp RV hookups and two 30 amp RV hookups available in the south (boys) cabin area on a pole of the gazebo. The hookups/outlets are not spread out. Camp Mennoscah only has electrical hookups. Meals are available for Sat. evening and Sun. breakfast and lunch. Contact Kevin N. at 316-322-5515.

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

Camp Mennoscah’s wants your stories about the role we have played in your faith! As we continue to race toward the finish line of the retreat center – and likely other projects to follow – personal stories are so meaningful to those who support camp and we would love to publicize your connection to this incredible place. If you are willing to let us publish the ways that Camp Mennoscah has touched your life, please send an email to our Communications office at Eric.litwiller@campmennoscah.org. Include how you were first introduced to Camp Mennoscah, your favorite aspect of camp and why it is your favorite, and how you feel your life is different today than it otherwise might have been were it not for your exposure to this organization, along with anything else you’d like to share. Also please include a good contact method so we can follow up with you to add to the narrative if we need more information. Thank you!

The 2026 Summer Staff (alphabetical order by position) are the following cool folks: Mara Oswald (crafts), Josiah Buller (grounds/maintenance), Noah Schrag (grounds/maintenance), Camryn Entz (lifeguard), Lily Schloneger (lifeguard), Maddie Tegeler (lifeguard), Daniel Miller (nature), Ethan Wilcox (music), and Adah Hodge (office). Say hello and send prayers for a safe, fun, and faith-fulfilling summer!

Online Registration for the 2026 Summer Youth Camps is open. The theme for the summer is “In the Wilderness.” Through the new, strange and unknown of “wilderness,” we will discover the sacred within each person and all creation and meet God there. Summer Youth Camps are for youth in grades 3-12 (Fall 2026). Register at https://campmennoscah.campbrainregistration.com/

The Summer Camp Schedule is as follows:

Junior I—June 14-19, Grades 6, 7 & 8, Fall 2026

PreJunior I—June 21-25, Grades 4 & 5, Fall 2026

First Camp—June 25-27, Grades 3 & 4, Fall 2026

PreJunior II—July 5-9, Grades 4 & 5, Fall 2026

Junior High—July 12-17, Grades 8 & 9, Fall 2026

Junior II—July 19-24, Grades 6, 7 & 8, Fall 2026

Senior High July 26-31, Grades 10-12, Fall 2026 (2026 graduating seniors register on the Graduating Senior Wait List)

Scholarships are available. They will be granted as soon as possible, but full scholarships will not be awarded until after May 1.

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
For Mennonite Men “Engage” press here
For Mennonite Women USA “Grapevine” press here
For Mennonite Disaster Service Volunteer Update press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here

March 15
Mennonite Voluntary Service Live out your faith through service! Applications are open for the 2026-27 term. This one-year volunteer experience is open to individuals age 20+, with the option to extend placements for an additional one to two years. Serve with nonprofits addressing critical community needs, such as health, education, immigration and more. You won’t do it alone, though! By living with peers in a unit house and growing with a local faith community, MVSers join in the global movement to work for peace and a more just world. Ready to jump in? Go to MennoniteMission.net/MVS to learn more and apply.
Placements are available in the following locations: Alamosa, Colorado; Chicago, Illinois; San Francisco, California; and Tucson, Arizona.

For Mennonite World Conference “Courier” press here

Announcements from Mennonite Church USA
Mennonite Church USA hosted a special, smaller-scale Hope for the Future 2026 gathering in San Antonio, Texas, which brought together BIPOC leaders for deep discernment, spiritual renewal and strategic visioning. Read about their call for greater interdependence and collective liberation, as well as where they are finding hope in challenging times, here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/news/hope-for-the-future-2026/

Spiritual director Marlene Kropf invites congregations to plan a Lenten Quiet Morning as a contemplative practice rooted in Jesus’ desert retreat, encouraging prayer, reflection and spiritual renewal amid life’s chaos. Read her Menno Snapshots blog and download her free planning resource here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/lenten-quiet-morning/

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Laura Schlabach served in Mongolia with JCS International for 32 years. She concluded that ministry at the end of 2025 and this month will mark the end of her work with Mission Network. Pray for her as she moves into retirement and re-establishes her life outside of Mongolia.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for WDC ministers who serve as chaplains or campus pastors in educational settings, retirement communities, businesses, hospitals and hospice programs, and pray for God’s strength and wisdom to sustain them daily.

Worship Service and Announcements at BCMC–2026 03 08

The memorial service for Alvin “Al” Penner is Saturday, March 7, 11 a.m. at BCMC.
Here is the Youtube link for that service:
https://youtube.com/live/nIUPuYt6fEs?feature=share

Spring forward on Sunday, March 8, 2026.
Don’t forget to turn your clock forward 1 hour for
Daylight Saving Time starting on Sunday, March 8, 2026.

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
March 8, 2026

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 for Sunday, March 8:

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
March 8, 2026
3rd Sunday of Lent: Holy Confrontation

Christ Candle Lighting

Centering Music– Sweet Rivers of Redeeming Love (from Sacred Harp)
(arr. D. Hustad)

Welcome and Call to Worship— John Waltner

One: Come into God’s presence, you who imagine and you who seek, you who disrupt and you who repair.
All: By the Spirit, we gather in hope.
One: Come into God’s abundance, you of great faith, and you who grasp at crumbs; you who resist, and you who persist.
All: In Christ, we gather and are transformed.
One: Come into God’s presence, singing for joy and for justice; bringing prayer and worship, your most faithful acts of resistance.
All: To God be the glory! We gather to praise!

Opening Prayer—John Waltner

*Hymn—You Are Salt for the Earth—VT 297

Kindom Report—Puerto Rico Peace Camp—Ani Koontz and Grace Harader-Ellett

Children and Youth Conversation—Carol Flickinger

Worship Music—Chancel Choir; Joel Garber, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist

Scripture Reading—Numbers 27:1-11— Marlene Faul

*Hymn—There Is a Line of Women—VT 546

Scripture Reading—Matthew 15:21-28—Marlene Faul

Sermon— The Perils of Pedestals—Joanna Harader

Breath Prayer— God, grant me courage / to speak out in faith.

*Hymn—Draw the Circle—VT 802—Lucy Burch, flute

Receiving the Offering and Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Sing a New World into Being— VT 809

*Charge and Benediction
Postlude– The Kingsfold Trumpet (VT 536), (arr. A. Fedak)

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Keyboard–Will Weibe Friesen
Audio visual—Ken Lamp

The Week at BCMC: March 8-15, 2026
Sunday, March 8, 2026—3rd Sunday of Lent:
9:30 a.m.   Worship           10:30 a.m. Coffee/water/tea in the Gathering Place
12 noon     New member lunch—Fellowship Hall

YouTube Link for the worship service this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/abmoaQxvaAw?feature=share

Tuesday, March 10, 2026
5 p.m.       Solar sub-committee meeting—Chapel

Wednesday, March 11, 2026
10:30 a.m Memorial service for Barbara Soth—Sanctuary
We offer sympathy to the family of Barbara Soth. Barbara died Feb. 26 in Wichita. Please remember her son Terry Soth and his family in your prayers.
Youtube link for Barbara Soth Memorial Service is:
https://youtube.com/live/-_wDp0oOJTg?feature=share

6 p.m.      Wednesday supper in Fellowship Hall—Please bring your own tableware to facilitate the clean-up—Menu: Cheesy chicken and broccoli with rice, fruit cobbler/crisp
6:30 p.m. Open Table
7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir Rehearsal—Sanctuary Chancel

Thursday, March 12, 2026
6 p.m.        Chancel Bells Rehearsal—Rm B7
Sunday, March 15, 2026—Fourth Sunday of Lent
9:30 a.m.   Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz; music by Chancel Bells

BCMC Offering for Mar. 1: General $24,487; Wed. Supper $195; Plant Fund $50; Kitchen Fund $20; Solar Fund $50; Larry Penner Mem. $100.

Pastor Joanna Harader will be on retreat and out of the office from March 9 through March 16. There will be no 1887 Café Hours March 12.

Women’s Fellowship General Meeting will be Tuesday, March 17, 7 p.m. at the MCC Center, 121 East 30th Street. This is a worknight so come and enjoy working with others on some of the MCC projects. Refreshments provided.

You are invited to an ecumenical Good Friday worship service on April 3, 7 p.m., at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church (2001 Windsor Drive, Newton). This service will be planned and led by Bethel College Mennonite, Shalom Mennonite,Faith Mennonite, Salem United Methodist, Trinity Heights United Methodist, and St. Matthew’s Episcopal. We are excited to connect with others in our community during this sacred season.

A handout with “Prayers & Practices for Peace in a Time of War” is available in the gathering place.

All children from 8th grade and younger are invited to be part of a singing group that will do worship music on Palm Sunday, March 29. We will meet for a 15 minute practice before Sunday School on March 15 and March 22 in the Fellowship H all. Contact Verlene Garber if you have any questions.

Rooting our Stories: Reveling in 50 years of Queer and Trans Anabaptist Resilience
Join the Brethren Mennonite Council for LGBT Interests (BMC) for a gathering rooted in sacred story and joyful revelry, as we mark our 50th Anniversary on May 29-31 in Minneapolis! This festive weekend will include storytelling, singing, ritual/worship, workshops, artmaking, games, shared meals, and honoring this incredible 50-year legacy of LGBTQIA+ Anabaptist resistance and resilience. Find event details, safety/accessibility info, and registration on our 50th webpage,
www.bmclgbt.org/50th

The Gifts Discernment Commission is at work to connect willing workers to the following open positions: moderator-elect, Church Board, Hospitality Commission, Faith Formation Commission, and Deacon Commission. If the Spirit moves you to a new experience, please contact a GDC member: Francis Toews, Jerry Buller, Dorothy Nickel Friesen, Barb Koontz, or Jeanette Stucky.

Margaret Toews and Barb Voran, along with Faith Formation, are looking for more volunteers for our BCMC nursery during worship on Sunday mornings. Fifteen people volunteered to spend time with our young ones this past year. We would like to have 18 people who are willing to spend one Sunday every other month in the nursery. This is a wonderful opportunity – never a dull moment! Let Margaret Toews, Barb Voran or Brad Kohlman know if interested.

“Mennonites in Poland” is currently being highlighted in the church library along with the Mennonite Polish Studies Association Newsletter. This newsletter summarizes the 2025 Poland trip led by Mark Jantzen and John Thiesen which many in the congregation have taken or will take this summer. We also have many new books that were donated and are now ready for checkout.
Please stop by and enjoy!

This Lent, we will explore The Work of Imagination, led by material from Illustrated Ministry.
“This is the work of imagination: to envision a world remade by mercy, to trust that healing is possible even in the shadow of empire, and to practice love that outlasts despair.”
Please plan to join us for Sunday morning worship, and consider participating in these special Lenten opportunities:
· Sundays, Mar. 8-Mar. 29 during Sunday School hour: elective Sunday school class using The Work of Imagination devotionals, in the Chapel
· Wednesdays, Mar. 11-Mar. 25 @ 6 p.m.: Church Community Suppers in Fellowship Hall
· Thurs., Apr. 2, 5:30 p.m.: All-Age Maundy Thursday Worship in the Chapel
· Thurs., Apr. 2, 7 p.m.: Maundy Thursday Worship with communion in the
Sanctuary
· Fri., Apr. 3, 7 p.m.: Ecumenical Good Friday worship service at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church (2001 Windsor Drive, Newton).
· Easter Sunday, Apr. 5: NO Sunday School
* Easter Sunrise Worship @ 7 a.m.
* Worship Service @ 10 a.m. to include welcoming new members!

Poems and Prayers Group for Lent
You are invited to poems and prayers in the BCMC chapel on Tuesdays at 11 during Lent, an informal time to bring a poem or prayer that speaks to you and share it with the group. Readings will be followed by silence and discussion. Your selection could be something that you have written, or something that someone else has written. You do not need to consider yourself a poet to attend. Simply bring an open heart and joy for the truth revealed when words and phrases rub in illumined ways.

The Swiss Mennonite Cultural and Historical Association’s annual meeting will be Sunday, Mar. 8, 2:30 p.m. at Hopefield Mennonite Church, 1823 Aztec Lane, Moundridge. Guest Speaker, Glen Ediger, a Bethel College graduate, will speak on “Mennonites,Farming, Wheat and Threshing Stones”. Entertainment provided by Sam Shilts. No need to rsvp. Poppyseed rolls will be served after the meeting.

Bethel College Announcements
· Sun., March 8, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium: Bethel College music and theater departments present: Alice by Heart, a retelling of Alice in Wonderland set during the London blitz of World War II. Tickets can be purchased at the door.
Contains adult content and is not intended for young audiences.
· Tues., Mar. 10 [change from Feb. 26]: Bethel College Wind Ensemble concert, Chris Miertschin, director, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium
· Thurs., March 12: Closing reception for Rachel Epp Buller and “Daily Commitments,” 6-7 p.m., Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
· Thurs., Mar. 12: Bethel College Jazz, Chris Miertschin, director, 7 p.m. Krehbiel Auditorium
· Thurs., Mar. 12: Ceramic artist Isaac Shue, owner of Gallery Mostaza in Newton, will present an artist talk, 7 p.m., Ad Building chapel at Bethel College, (underwritten by the Greer Lecture Endowment).

Life Enrichment, for adults age 60 and older, meets Wednesday mornings in Bethel College’s Krehbiel Auditorium. March 11 programs: 9:30 a.m.:“The Historical Roots of Putin’s Russia,” Matt Cotton, McPherson College; 10:50 a.m.: “How to Protect the Earth’s Biodiversity Forever: Lessons from Maitreya Buddha, Pharma Bros, and Yucca Mountain,” Dr. Adam Smith, Missouri Botanical Gardens, St. Louis. First-time attenders get one session free. See https://www.bethelks.edu/academics/life-enrichment/ for details and a link to the complete spring schedule.

Hesston College will host the annual Melva Kauffman Lecture Series Mar. 25 and 26, welcoming internationally recognized peace studies scholar and Hesston College alumna Dr. Angela Lederach for a three-part series titled “Slow Peace: Lessons from Grassroots Peacebuilders in Colombia.” Dr. Lederach will speak on Wed., March 25 at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. and on Thurs., March 26 at 7 p.m. All events are free and open to the public and will be held at Hesston Mennonite Church with a cookie reception to follow both evening lectures. For more information visit hesston.edu/mel

Join guest conductor Anya Pogorelova for the Newton Mid Kansas Symphony Orchestra spring concert Sat., Mar. 21, 3 p.m. in the Newton High School Auditorium. This concert is designed for the whole family with a special family ticket price of $20 to families of all sizes. Advance tickets for sale online, and at Faith and Life Bookstore. Tickets will also be available the day of the concert at the door. https://nmkso.org/tickets/

Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale (KMRS) is April 10 & 11 at the Kansas State Fair Grounds in Hutchinson. Did you know that in 2025, relief sales across North America provided over 5 million dollars to fund Mennonite Central Committee’s relief, development, and peace initiatives in 46 countries?
· The My Coins Count jug has returned. (Jug is in the Gathering Place)—bring your bills and coins! The filled jug will help transform lives by funding MCC’s education projects.
· Donations: Turn cool items into cash to fund MCC projects! BCMC members have already donated many items to KMRS to be sold at one of 4 different auctions. If you have something to add, simply donate it, and the auction committees can decide the best location for your item. Talk to a BCMC sale liaison today!
· Volunteer Opportunities: Sign up to make VERENIKA (in Hillsboro on March 21) or BOHNE BEROGGI (in Moundridge on April 4) for the sale. To sign up, go to the volunteer page at https://kansas.mccsale.org/
· Urgent Service Opportunities: KMRS is looking for persons to chair or support the following: New Year Cookies Frying Committee, Pork Tenders, Friday Verenike Frying, Borscht Making, Feeding the Multitude Committee. For more info, see the flyer on the table in the gathering place or speak with Jim Robb.
· Sunday School Classes: Last year many contributed to help underwrite KMRS costs to cover all expenses before the sale so proceeds go directly to MCC programs. The next round of bidding on items like eggs, cream, shortening, pork tenders is on March 12. Please identify your contributions in the next few weeks! Info has been sent to Sunday School contacts.
· We are gathering new, in-the-package items for this year’s Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale Children’s Auction, and your donations are a huge part of making the event a success! Consider talking with the youth in your church about what items they’d be excited to bid on—but you can never go wrong with favorites like Hot Wheels, Barbies, board games, LEGO sets, art kits, and sports equipment. Additional popular item categories include: Building sets; Craft and activity kits; Puzzles; Plush animals; Outdoor toys. To donate: Items may be given to your MCC Liaison for delivery to the Sale, or brought directly to the Pride of Kansas building on Fri. or Sat. morning (Apr. 10-11) before 8:30 a.m. We’re also looking for volunteers to help clerk the Children’s Auction at this year’s Relief Sale. This is an important role that helps the auction run smoothly. Because the sale can be loud, this job requires good hearing and the ability to follow bids clearly. If you’re attentive, comfortable in a busy and exciting environment, and willing to serve, we would be grateful for your help! If interested in clerking, contact Brad Kohlman at bkohlman@conradeinsurance.com Thank you for helping support the Children’s Auction and the work of MCC!
· More Information:
*KMRS posterboard & table in the Gathering Place for information and forms for Run for Relief, as well as the My Coins Count jug.
* KMRS website: https://kansas.mccsale.org/
* BCMC liaisons: Steve & Elaine Schurr, William & Esther Kreider Eash, and Brad & Diane Born.

Camp Mennoscah Announcements
Camp Mennoscah is pleased to report that our most recent work day saw final installation of cover plates on electrical switches and outlets in the retreat center, and bathroom mirrors were hung. Baseboards are nearly done, all bedrooms have been cleaned, bedroom and basement common area carpets have been shampooed, making the basement essentially move-in ready. The continued support of twelve congregations with active matching challenges has made this possible, and we are so thankful! If your congregation does not have such a challenge, please consider visiting our website to initiate a recurring $20/month gift to camp. For information on how to set that up, simply text the word “Monthly” to 620.755.2583.

Camp Mennoscah’s wants your stories about the role we have played in your faith! As we continue to race toward the finish line of the retreat center – and likely other projects to follow – personal stories are so meaningful to those who support camp and we would love to publicize your connection to this incredible place. If you are willing to let us publish the ways that Camp Mennoscah has touched your life, please send an email to our Communications office at Eric.litwiller@campmennoscah.org. Include how you were first introduced to Camp Mennoscah, your favorite aspect of camp and why it is your favorite, and how you feel your life is different today than it otherwise might have been were it not for your exposure to this organization, along with anything else you’d like to share. Also please include a good contact method so we can follow up with you to add to the narrative if we need more information. Thank you!

Online Registration for the Spring Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat on March 13-15 is open. Register online at https://campmennoscah.campbrainregistration.com/ Activities and lodging will be at Main Camp. (The Retreat Center is moving along quickly, but is not quite finished.)

The 2026 Summer Staff (alphabetical order by position) are the following cool folks: Mara Oswald (crafts), Josiah Buller (grounds/maintenance), Noah Schrag (grounds/maintenance), Camryn Entz (lifeguard), Lily Schloneger (lifeguard), Maddie Tegeler (lifeguard), Daniel Miller (nature), Ethan Wilcox (music), and Adah Hodge (office). Say hello and send prayers for a safe, fun, and faith-fulfilling summer!

The Summer Camp Schedule is as follows:

Junior I—June 14-19, Grades 6, 7 & 8, Fall 2026

PreJunior I—June 21-25, Grades 4 & 5, Fall 2026

First Camp—June 25-27, Grades 3 & 4, Fall 2026

PreJunior II—July 5-9, Grades 4 & 5, Fall 2026

Junior High—July 12-17, Grades 8 & 9, Fall 2026

Junior II—July 19-24, Grades 6, 7 & 8, Fall 2026

Senior High July 26-31, Grades 10-12, Fall 2026 (2026 graduating seniors register on the Graduating Senior Wait List)

Scholarships are available.

2. Two full scholarships are available for campers needing assistance through a Scholarship Endowment. Campers who are racially and ethnically diverse and/or from non-Mennonite communities will be given priority; all are welcome to apply. Use the Scholarship Request Form at https://campmennoscah.socs.net/vnews/display.v/ART/5e41970817def and include supporting information in the “Amount you are asking in Scholarship” field. Contact office@campmennoscah.org with questions. Deadline is May 1, 2026.

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

Service Adventure Can a gap year change your life? Only if you’re up for adventure! Applications are now open for the 2026-27 term.
Service Adventure is a 10-month volunteer experience for young adults ages 17-20. Live in community with peers and unit leaders, serve with local nonprofit agencies, and grow in your faith with a supporting church congregation! Learn more and apply at MennoniteMission.net/ServiceAdventure.

For Mennonite World Conference “Info” press here

From Mennonite Church USA
Mennonite Church USA responded to the deadly violence in January in Minneapolis with a statement calling for peacemaking and urging faith-based action rooted in justice, nonviolence and the teachings of Jesus Christ. Read the statement here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/minneapolis-statement/

“What is the most important skill of a competent pastor?” This is the central question answered by pastors across Mennonite Church USA during “The Competent Pastor” podcast, hosted by MC USA’s Michael Danner and Rachel Ringenberg Miller. Listen to new episodes every month on Spotify, Apple podcasts or on the MC USA website: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/the-competent-pastor/

The deadline for MC USA’s 2026-27 BIPOC Scholarship applications is April 1. The Scholarship aids students who identify as Black, Indigenous and/or People of Color who are members or active participants of an MC USA congregation and who are attending or plan to attend an MC USA-affiliated Mennonite college, university or seminary. Learn more and apply here: https://bit.ly/49LLYLi

From Kansas Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution a course:

Navigating Differences In Faith Communities

For information about this course and registration press here

To read a Thank You Card from KIPCOR (BCMC hosted an Immigration Panel on Feb. 26) press here.

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: On this International Women’s Day, pray that women across the street and around the world feel empowered to live out their faith in meaningful ways, despite any negative pressures they may feel from the patriarchal systems in their communities, homes, churches and countries.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for WDC’s Hispanic Transitional Ministry Resourcing project, and pray for participating churches as they nurture congregational identity and strengthen leadership capacity to navigate pastoral and congregational changes in ways that are relevant to their cultural context.