Category Archives: Announcements

Announcements for March 5-12, 2023

March 5, 2023 – Lent 2: Shaped by New Birth

Based on CDC Guidelines Harvey County is still in green status indicating
low risk for COVID. You are invited to choose whether you wear a mask or social distance. Both are optional.

To livestream the worship service:
On Sunday morning, around 9:20, go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen, which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box belows 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/ZPHqPqVvZxM?feature=share

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
March 5, 2023
Lent 2: Shaped by New Birth

Prelude— Give me Jesus (arr. Lau); My Lord, What a Morning (arr. Lau)—Will Wiebe-Friesen, organ

Christ Candle Lighting—Dale Schrag
Land Acknowledgement—Michelle Armster

*Hymn—Breathe on Me, Breath of God—VT 737

Call to Worship—Dale Schrag
Leader: Lift your eyes to the hills—where does your help come from?
People: Our help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth. All: Let us worship our God, who watches over us now and always.

Welcome and Prayer—Dale Schrag

*Hymn— O Holy Spirit, Root of Life—VT 376

Children’s Conversation—Esther Eash

Anthem—Come, Ye Disconsolate (Terre Johnson)—Chancel Choir

Scripture Reading—Genesis 12:1-4a; John 3:1-17—Aaron Tschetter, Ani Koontz

Sermon—Michelle Armster

*Hymn—How Many Times We Start Again—VT 553

Prayers of God’s People—Dale Schrag

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

*Benediction—Michelle Armster
Leader: The Lord watch over you
People: the Lord bless you and make you a blessing;
Leader: the sun will not harm you by day,
People: nor the moon by night.
All: The Lord will bring you to life and carry you safely home.

Postlude—I am thine, O Lord (arr. McDonald)—Will Wiebe-Friesen, piano

* You are invited to stand
VT = Voices Together
Audio visual— Ken Lamp

YouTube Link:  https://youtube.com/live/ZPHqPqVvZxM?feature=share

We are very happy to welcome Michelle Armster this Sunday. Pastor Armster is the executive director for the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Central States.

Roger will be in Topeka most of this week. But he checks his cell phone and church email daily for important messages from BCMC folks. Roger will return to Newton this Friday, March 10, and remain in Newton until Tuesday, March 14.

Wednesday night suppers , 6:00 pm in the Fellowship Hall. Menus:
March 8:    Salisbury steak, potatoes, green beans, chocolate chip cookies
March 15: Chicken Enchilada casserole, salad, cinnamon dessert
March 22: Baked potato bar with all the fixings, dessert
March 29: Beef vegetable curry with rice, ice cream
April 5: Ham loaf, macaroni and cheese, peas, lemon dessert
Please bring your own table service. Not doing so adds significant effort for the cleanup crew.
Sign up for the March 8 supper on the bulletin board or by emailing office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org

BCMC Care Connections – we are starting some new ways of care connections at BCMC!  Please let Elizabeth know if you are interested in any of the following ways of showing care for BCMC’ers: in-person visits, phone call visits, email connections, post-mail cards/letters, making care packages, delivering care packages. Yes, you may reply as an individual, or a couple, or a household, or a family, or any/all of the above! Additional ideas are also welcome.
Email your interest and ideas to:  elizabeth@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org

The memorial service for Grace Schroeder will be Saturday, March 25 at 11 am.

There will be a Mentor-Mentee event, Sunday, March 5 from 2-3:30 at the Goerz House. We will be putting together care packages to be mailed to our current college students.

BCMC Offering for February 26, 2023: General Fund $8,174; Sr Hi Youth $100; Jr Hi Fund $70; Living Stones $1,220; Kitchen Fund $31; Women’s Fellowship $514; Vel Teichroew Memorial $100.

Sunday, March 5 at 4:00 p.m., the Newton Chorale will present their 2023 concert “A Choral Jubilee” sung in memory of Philip Koontz. The hour-long concert will be at Bethel College Mennonite Church. There is no admission charge; a free-will donation will be taken. The concert will include a chamber orchestra and soloist Dr. Matthew Schloneger in addition to the Chorale. Renae Schmidt Peters will direct. Karen Unruh is the pianist and organist for the group.

This Week at BCMC: March 5-12, 2023
Sun., Mar. 5, 2023—Lent 2: Shaped by New Birth
9:30 am    Worship with sermon by Michelle Armster
YouTube Link for this Sunday is:  https://youtube.com/live/ZPHqPqVvZxM?feature=share
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:30 am Faith Formation—Intergenerational class meets in Fellowship Hall;   High School – Room 24
Adult Classes: Agape Class meets in the nursery; Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21)
Seekers (Rm 28) [They will be doing a “Ecclesiastes study” presented by Weldon Schloneger]
4 pm Newton Chorale concert in the Sanctuary—”A Choral Jubliee” sung in memory of Philip Koontz
Wed., Mar. 8, 2023
6:00 pm    Wednesday night meal in Fellowship Hall-Menu is:
Salisbury steak, potatoes, green beans, chocolate chip cookies. Please bring your own table service.
7 pm         Youth Group meets
7:30 pm   Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the Sanctuary
Thurs., Mar. 9, 2023
6:30 pm   Chancel Bell rehearsal in Room B7
7 pm         Finance Committee meeting in Room 14
Sun, Mar. 12, 2023—Lent 3: Shaped through thirst
9:30 am    Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz; music by Chancel Bells

Don’t forget to complete the pastoral priorities survey!
If you have not already done so, please complete and return the survey on pastoral priorities. The due date has been extended to Sunday, March 5 to give people an extra weekend to complete it.
See the link at the end of the instructions below for the survey.

Greetings from the BCMC Pastoral Search Committee:
As described in the Kin-dom Report during the worship service on Sunday, February 19, 2023, the Search Committee is beginning its work to identify and call the next pastor of BCMC. To that end, we are seeking congregational input in two important ways at this time.

1. Provide us names of potential candidates
First, if you have individuals in mind that you believe the search committee should consider, please share those names with a committee member. These potential candidates do not have to be currently looking for a position, nor do you need to know whether they are interested in our position. We have a process in place to vet that information. For now, we simply invite you to share with us the names of people you think might be a good fit for BCMC. For your reference, committee members include Heather Zerger (Chair), Megan Kohlman, Lois Preheim, John Waltner, and Doug Penner. We will gladly accept your recommendations in person, or by phone, text or email.

2. Please complete the Survey on Pastoral Priorities
Second, we also want to understand what you, the congregation, believe are our most important priorities for the next pastor of BCMC. To help us do this, we ask that each participant in the life of the congregation complete a survey provided by Western District Conference that ranks various pastoral priorities in the order of their importance to you. The survey is either enclosed or attached.

  a. For participants receiving the survey electronically
If you are receiving this communication by email, we ask you to complete the survey electronically using the link in the email message to which this is attached. If you share an email address with other BCMC congregants, the survey link can be used by each of you, so that all BCMC participants may fill out a survey. We simply ask that each BCMC participant fill out the survey only one time.

  b. For participants receiving the survey by mail
If you are receiving this communication by mail in paper form, enough copies of the survey are enclosed for each participant in your household to complete. Please use the enclosed, self-addressed stamped envelope to return all your surveys to the Church. Alternatively, you may drop them off at the Church office or in Jon and Heather Zerger’s church mailbox, if that is more convenient.

        c. Instructions for filling out the survey
The survey asks you to rank various pastoral tasks in the order of their importance to you—either low, medium or high priority. You will see, there are actually two levels at the low priority, three at the medium priority, and two at the high priority, so that you may differentiate even further between tasks. The survey has specific instructions on how many tasks you can rank at each level. Please read the instructions carefully and give thought to how you rank the listed pastoral tasks. Your answers should reflect what you believe are priorities of BCMC now and into the future, which may or may not be what you perceive priorities were in the past.

        d. Deadline for completing the survey
Whether you fill out your survey electronically or on paper, we ask each of you to fill it out by March 2. This information will help us to match the skill set and passions of potential candidates with what BCMC considers are its greatest priorities at this time in the life of the congregation. If you have any questions about how to fill out the survey, please reach out to any member of the search committee listed above. Thank you in advance for your assistance in these two important ways. And thank you for your prayerful support as we undertake the work of identifying and calling our next pastor.

Click on the blue link below for the electronic survey. If you prefer a paper survey, contact the church office.

BCMC Pastoral Priorities

Join the BCMC Creation Care Task Group!
God calls the church to participate in the redemption of individuals, all of humanity and creation. Therefore ministries of environmental stewardship and environmental justice are important here at BCMC. The Creation Care Task Group has been on hiatus for a few years and is now beginning again. Areas of focus to promote creation care for this task group include worship, education, lifestyle practices, and community, national, and global environmental activities. If you are interested in participating with this group, please contact the church office at office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org. You can also contact Duane Friesen from the Witness Commission if you have questions regarding the work of this group.

BCMC has an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) for emergency use but needs congregation members to administer it’s use, if and when necessary.
Bill Swartley has offered to do a training session to facilitate this. Anyone who is interested and willing to assist with using the AED, may contact the church office at office@bethelcollegemennonite church.org
Bill will then set up a time for training.

“Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner? Thanks to the 74 participants in this February 26 event with 10 households hosting. It was fun getting to know congregants on a more personal level complete with a wonderful meal. — Hospitality Commission, Marlene V.Faul, chair

We are grateful to Tim Schrag who will serve as the new gardener and sexton for the Peace Garden at BCMC. Tim offers his gifts of gardening and landscape management experience, previously at Kidron Bethel Village and currently at Hesston College.
The Peace Garden is a witness to the beauty and wonder of God’s creation, designed to invite joyful delight, worship, and quiet meditation. The garden incorporates native flowers, grasses, and shrubs to attract birds and pollinators. It is a laboratory for Christian faith formation, a natural outdoor space to be used for education about our local ecosystems. The Peace Garden provides two alternatives for handling ashes when cremation is chosen, a columbarium with niches for ashes, and garden spaces where ashes can be scattered and raked into the soil, modeling ecological cycling of death and rebirth of all life on earth (“from dust to dust”). Engraved plaques on the niches of the columbarium and engraved pavers on a walkway honor the memory of loved ones and the “cloud of witnesses” that surround the living body of Christ.

Everence is looking for a full-time Receptionist/Administrative Assistant to support the sales efforts of the office by providing clerical, administrative support and sales assistance to the Kansas team. Qualified candidates will have exceptional client service capabilities, ability to handle multiple tasks, and experience or aptitude to learn PC-based software programs. For more information about the responsibilities and qualifications of this position and/or to apply, please visit our website, www.everence.com/careers.

Update and request from the Funeral Committee. Thanks for understanding as we flexed during COVID, doing meals in varied ways, and thanks to those who have already volunteered to bake cookies for meals and receptions. Now, with COVID waning and Breadbasket able to deliver most food items, we can offer either a faspa or sandwich buffet lunch, but may need help at large events. To be an on-call volunteer, please contact the church office: office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org. (Other committee members are Dennis and Kathy Campbell, Tom Jackson, Kathryn Simmons and Dave Linscheid). Thank you.

Bethel College Announcements:
· Bethel College is on spring break March 6-10. Most offices and services are open but some may be on reduced hours. The Regier Gallery is closed (new exhibit opens March 17).
· Sun., March 12 – Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum program, 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum. Nationally recognized local artist Phil Epp will present “Images of Art and Design in Central Asia,” a program related to the museum’s current special exhibit, “Reeds & Wool: Patterned Screens of Central Asia.”
· SAVE THE DATE: March 24-26, spring musical at Bethel College: tick, tick … BOOM! by Jonathan Larson

The January 12, 1888, blizzard will be the focus for Lois Preheim, author and educator, who will be the speaker at the annual meeting of the Swiss Mennonite Cultural and Historical Association. Her book, “Trailing the Schoolchildren’s Blizzard” chronicles experiences of families living in ten locations along the storm’s route extending from Canada down through the United States. Dr. Preheim has degrees from Freeman Junior College, the University of Nebraska and Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary. She is a retired kindergarten-twelve principal having taught pre-school through college age students. Currently she resides in Newton. The annual meeting will be March 12, 2:30 p.m. at the First Mennonite Church of Christian in Moundridge.

New Hope Shelter is in need of the following: Pinesol, Scotch Tape, Laundry Pods, Dishwasher Pods, Dishwashing Soap, 8 1/2 x 11 copy paper, 55+ gallon trash bags, Coffee, Creamer, Sugar, Bread, Napkins, Mayonnaise, Granola bars, Pudding Cups. If you can provide some of these supplies, they can be taken to New Hope, 900 West Broadway, Bldg. #7.

Come to Men and Boys Retreat, Mar. 31-Apr. 2 , at Camp Mennoscah, a long-standing, guys-only retreat. Enjoy time fishing, canoeing, worshiping, sitting by the fire, or visiting with friends in fellowship. The official beginning to the weekend is Saturday morning, but many arrive on Friday. There will be a worship service on Sunday morning. Meals can be purchased for Saturday night, Sunday morning and lunch. No pre-registration. Registration and payment will take place upon arrival. More information contact Kevin Neufeld at 316-322-5515

Mennonite Central Committee Announcements
· Put your faith in action by volunteering with SWAP this summer! MCC’s SWAP (Sharing With Appalachian People) home repair program provides short-term service and learning opportunities for churches, school and university groups, families, other groups and individuals. Now is the time to make your summer plans and sign up! More information and registration at swap.mcc.org or (606) 634-4418.
· SAVE THE DATE! Come join the fun at 15th annual MCC Comforter Blitz on March 6, 7 and 8 on the Journey Yoder Campus, one mile north of Yoder, KS. Times are Monday and Tuesday 9-5 and Wednesday 9-4. No sewing skills are required, we will teach you. Lunch is available by donation each day, or you may bring your own sack lunch. Bring snacks to share during the workday. This event is hosted by Kansas Friends of MCC to make comforters for relief to be sent to refugees or places after natural disasters. Please contact the MCC Central States office with questions at #316-283-2720, or check the Comforter Blitz Facebook Page, “Kansas MCC Comforter Blitz”.

Bohne berrogie bake day for the MCC Sale is April 8 at Moundridge High School. Volunteers wanting to help, can sign up on the MCC Sale website.

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation!

Camp Mennoscah Announcements
Youth Needed for Fun Times and Service! Youth in Grades 6-12 are invited to the Youth Volunteer Weekend on March 24-25 for a focused time of worship and service. The retreat begins on Friday at 7pm with registration followed by snacks, games, and campfire. Rachel and Isaac, the Senior High Camp program directors, will lead activities. Ben Woodward-Breckbill will lead worship times. Register in the Summer Youth Camp section by adding a person or session, if you have already registered for camp.
Other events and happenings:

The dam will be put back in on March 12 at approx. 2:30pm. Everyone is welcome to join in or to watch. Gather at the shelter. (The actual putting in of the boards is not for young ages.) The event will go forward, whatever the weather, unless deemed unsafe. Call Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290, if uncertain.
Welcome Summer Staff 2023! While we may be adding to the number of summer staff, here is the crew as of March 1: Peter Buller, Schyler Entz, Daniel Miller, Edel Miller, and Jacob Schrag. Additional staff are needed for lifeguarding and grounds. Apply here. We are excited to have them at camp this summer!
Kitchen staff and nurses needed for summer youth camps from June 4 through July 28. Most people come out for a camp week, but we will also schedule partial weeks, as needed. Kitchen staff receive a camper discount for up to full camp fees and need to be able to follow directions with a willing spirit. Nurses must be an RN and can receive either a stipend or a camper discount. Contact us at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org!
Click to register! Summer youth camp registration is open and Camp Mennoscah is receiving registrations. The summer theme is FruitFULL Faith. Get ready to learn and sing about the Fruit of the Spirit this summer–it’s not a coconut!
Spring Scrapbook and Craft Retreat registration is open!Online registration can be found here. Croppers and crafters of all skill levels are welcome. Participants at the Scrapbook and Crafts Retreats will have lodging in the Retreat Center and work space at the Dining Hall. Grade 3 and above are welcome with an accompanying adult. Further details available on the website or at 620-297-3290. See you in March!

For Mennonite Church USA MennoCon press here
For Mennonite World Conference press here

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here
For Mennonite Men press here
Mennonite Mission Network Urgent Prayer Request press here

Hesston College Announcements

March 1 to 5 – Spring Musical

Hesston College Performing Arts will stage a production of The Apple Tree. Join us for this fantastic performance by the same duo that wrote Fiddler on the Roof. It’s a series of three musical playlets – The Diary of Adam & Eve, The Lady or the Tiger, Passionella. Learn more at hesston.edu/theatre.

March 11 – Go Green Leprechaun Run

Dyck Arboretum will host the 11th annual Leprechaun Run on March 11 at 8:30 a.m. There will be a 2 mile fun run/walk and a 10K. Registration will close March 9. You are encouraged to wear green and come run or walk. All proceeds go to help underwrite educational programming. Learn more, register, or sign up to volunteer at dyckarboretum.org/events.

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

The African American Mennonite Association (AAMA), one of the racial ethnic groups that make up the Racial Ethnic Council of Mennonite Church USA, has prepared a new master class curriculum for Black Mennonite church leaders. Learn more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/aama-curriculum

Mennonite Central Committee and Mennonite Church USA are partnering in a year-long focus on alternatives to the current prison system and mass incarceration. A four-part webinar series, “Beyond Incarceration,” will be followed by learning tours across the U.S. Register for the learning tours here: mcc.org/get-involved/events/pipeline-prison-learning-tours Register for the webinar series here: mcc.org/get-involved/events/beyond-incarceration-webinar-series

#MennoCon23

Registration for MennoCon23 is now open. Mennocon23 will be held in Kansas City, Mo., July 3-6, immediately followed by the Mennonite Church USA Delegate Assembly and the new Youth & Young Adult Climate Summit. Register here: convention.mennoniteusa.org/registration/ View a downloadable printer-friendly flier here: mennoniteusa.org/mennocon-flyer-print-friendly

#BeTransformed

Change and transformation is a constant in life. For Lorraine Stutzman Amstutz, Mennonite Church USA’s denominational minister for Peace and Justice, relationships have been an important part of the transformation in her own life and have sustained her throughout those changes. Read more of her reflections here: mennoniteusa.org/change-and-transformation

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Participants from three Mennonite Mission Network Service Adventure units are in Newton for five days of fellowship, during which they will share the importance of service with potential participants. A similar event will be held in two weeks in Elkhart, Indiana. Pray that current and future participants will grow in their commitment to active faith through these events.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for the four WDC Commissions as they work to resource congregations, equip ministers and congregational leaders, nurture emerging congregations, and encourage generous giving and stewardship to support WDC’s mission.

Announcements for February 26-March 5, 2023

February 26, 2023

Based on CDC Guidelines Harvey County is still in green status indicating
low risk for COVID. You are invited to choose whether you wear a mask or social distance. Both are optional.

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
February 26, 2023
Lent 1: Shaped By Testing

Prelude— Take the World, But Give Me Jesus (arr. Labenske); Jesus! What a Friend for Sinners! (arr. Rice); Come, All Christians, Be Committed (arr. Hayes)—Meghann Rogers, piano

Christ Candle Lighting

Call to Worship
Leader: Sing together! Celebrate God!
People: God protects us from our trouble.
Leader: God forgives us and covers our sin.
People: God surrounds us with songs of deliverance.
All: Therefore, let all God’s people pray with thanksgiving and worship God.

Welcome and Prayer—Adam Robb

*Hymn—The Glory of These Forty Days—VT 305

Children’s Conversation—Esther Koontz

Anthem—Menno Ringers

Scripture Reading—Genesis 2:7,15-17—Pastor Nathan Koontz; Matthew 4:1-11—Carol Peters

Sermon—Roger Neufeld Smith

*Hymn—Word and Sign— VT 483

Communion

*Hymn—Precious Lord, Take My Hand—VT 610

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Christ Be in Your Senses—VT 721—People with February birthdays come forward for a blessing, please bring a hymnal

*Birthday Blessing & Benediction—Roger Neufeld Smith

Leader: Many are the woes of the wicked,
People: but the Lord’s unfailing love surrounds those who trust in God.
Leader:   Rejoice in the Lord and be glad, you righteous.
People: Sing, all you who have been forgiven!
All: The Lord’s unfailing love surrounds those who trust in God.

Postlude— This is My Father’s World (arr. Rice)—Meghann Rogers Meghann Rogers

* You are invited to stand
VT = Voices Together
Audio visual—Francis Toews
Pastors—Nathan Koontz and Roger Neufeld Smith

YouTube Link:  https://youtube.com/live/RgMDucVWjrg?feature=share

This Week at BCMC: February 26-March 5, 2023
Sun., Feb. 26, 2023—Lent 1: Shaped by Testing
9:30 am    Worship Service YouTube Link for this Sunday is:
https://youtube.com/live/RgMDucVWjrg?feature=share
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:30 am Faith Formation—Intergenerational class meets in Fellowship Hall;   High School – Room 24
Adult Classes: Agape Class meets in the nursery; Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21)
Seekers (Rm 28) [They will be doing a “Ecclesiastes study” presented by Weldon Schloneger]
Mon., Feb. 27, 2023
7 pm        Newton Chorale rehearsal in the sanctuary
Tues., Feb. 28, 2023
12 noon Mid-Kansas Investment Club meeting in Fellowship Hall
Wed., Mar. 1, 2023
6:00 pm   First Wednesday night meal in Fellowship Hall-Menu is:
Chili, carrots, cinnamon rolls
7 pm         Youth Group meets
7:30 pm   Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the Sanctuary
Thurs., Mar. 2, 2023
6:30 pm   Chancel Bell rehearsal in Room B7
7 pm         Newton Chorale rehearsal in the Sanctuary
7 pm         Church Board meeting in Room 14
Sun., Mar. 5, 2023—Lent 2: Shaped by New Birth
9:30 am    Worship with sermon by Michelle Armster; music by Chancel Choir

“Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” has arrived at last!   You will receive your host’s name in your mailbox Sunday, February 26. Enjoy your dinner at 12 p.m.!

We are very happy to welcome Michelle Armster to preach next Sunday, March 5, for our second Sunday of Lent. Pastor Armster is the executive director for the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Central States.

Mark your calendars for Wednesday night suppers beginning March 1, 6:00 pm in the Fellowship Hall. Note time change—NOT 6:30— Here are the menus:
March 1:    Chili, carrots, cinnamon rolls
March 8:    Salisbury steak, potatoes, green beans, chocolate chip cookies
March 15: Chicken Enchilada casserole, salad, cinnamon dessert
March 22: Baked potato bar with all the fixings, dessert
March 29: Beef vegetable curry with rice, ice cream
April 5: Ham loaf, macaroni and cheese, peas, lemon dessert
**There may be changes due to supply or the cooks’ possible time constraints.
Please bring your own table service.
Sign up for the March 1 supper on the bulletin board or by emailing office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org

For the BCMC Kaleidoscope – December 2022-January 2023 Edition press here

A CHANGE OF TIME FOR YOUR CALENDARS: The Maundy Thursday service will be at 6:30 p.m. on April 6. (It was previously scheduled for 7:00 p.m.)
For the Lent Devotional for 2023 press here.

This Sunday, February 26 is the first Sunday of Lent. There will be communion served during the worship service.

BCMC Offering for February 19, 2023: General Fund $16,741.66; Caring Fund $350; Library Reserve Fund $10; Jr Hi Fund $50; Living Stones $556.66; Kitchen Fund $10; Women’s Fellowship $50; Vel Teichroew Memorial $15.

The memorial service for Grace Schroeder will be Saturday, March 25 at 11 am.

Roger’s Whereabouts – Roger will return to Newton on Friday, February 24, and will preach on Sunday, February 26. He will remain in Newton until the Church Board meeting on Thursday evening, March 2. .

BCMC Care Connections – we are starting some new ways of care connections at BCMC! Please let Elizabeth know if you are interested in any of the following ways of showing care for BCMC’ers: in-person visits, phone call visits, email connections, post-mail cards/letters, making care packages, delivering care packages. Yes, you may reply as an individual, or a couple, or a household, or a family, or any/all of the above! Additional ideas are also welcome.

Email your interest and ideas to: elizabeth@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org

We will be purchasing lilies for Easter as we have done in the past. We do not know how much they will cost, but we hope to have some information soon. Watch for an announcement next week as to the cost. You can fill out a form to purchase a lily and have it be in honor or in memory of someone.

Update and request from the Funeral Committee. Thanks for understanding as we flexed during COVID, doing meals in varied ways, and thanks to those who have already volunteered to bake cookies for meals and receptions. Now, with COVID waning and Breadbasket able to deliver most food items, we can offer either a faspa or sandwich buffet lunch, but may need help at large events. To be an on-call volunteer, please contact Doris Whillock, d.whillock@cox.net, 316-283-5561. (Other committee members are Dennis and Kathy Campbell, Tom Jackson, Kathryn Simmons and Dave Linscheid). Thank you.

Join the BCMC Creation Care Task Group!
God calls the church to participate in the redemption of individuals, all of humanity and creation. Therefore ministries of environmental stewardship and environmental justice are important here at BCMC. The Creation Care Task Group has been on hiatus for a few years and is now beginning again. Areas of focus to promote creation care for this task group include worship, education, lifestyle practices, and community, national, and global environmental activities. If you are interested in participating with this group, please contact the church office at office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org. You can also contact Duane Friesen from the Witness Commission if you have questions regarding the work of this group.

BCMC has an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) for emergency use but needs congregation members to administer it’s use, if and when necessary.
Bill Swartley has offered to do a training session to facilitate this. Anyone who is interested and willing to assist with using the AED, may contact the church office at office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org
Bill will then set up a time for training.

The January 12, 1888, blizzard will be the focus for Lois Preheim, author and educator, who will be the speaker at the annual meeting of the Swiss Mennonite Cultural and Historical Association. Her book, “Trailing the Schoolchildren’s Blizzard” chronicles experiences of families living in ten locations along the storm’s route extending from Canada down through the United States. Dr. Preheim has degrees from Freeman Junior College, the University of Nebraska and Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary. She is a retired kindergarten-twelve principal having taught pre-school through college age students. Currently she resides in Newton. The annual meeting will be March 12, 2:30 p.m. at the First Mennonite Church of Christian in Moundridge.

Life Enrichment for March 2—Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center, Bethel College
9:30 am    “Nutrition: Importance of Eating and EnjoyingReal Food in a Convenience Food Culture,” Heather McDonough, Andover
10:35 am   “Serving People in Need of Shelter” Jeff Koller, McPherson
11:30 am   “Why Kansas?,” Rev. Dr. Karen L. Robu, Bethel College assistant professor of communication arts/director of theater

Bethel College Announcements
· TODAY (Sun., Feb. 26) – Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum program, 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum. Raylene Hinz-Penner, North Newton, will speak on her recently published memoir, with “East of Liberal: Notes on the Land – Exploring the Myths, Contradictions and Resilience.”
· TODAY (Sun., Feb. 26) – Bethel College Choir Tour Send-off Concert, directed by Dr. Henry Waters, 7 p.m., Memorial Hall (please note the change in date from some previously printed calendars). The concert has the theme “Can We Sing the Darkness to Light?” and includes performances by the Chamber Singers, Woven and Open Road as well as the Concert Choir.
· Sat., March 4 – Kauffman Museum bird walk, 8 a.m. start time in the museum parking lot at the corner of Main and 27th streets (2801 N. Main St., North Newton 67117). Experienced birders lead a walk of 1-1.5 hours in Chisholm Park and on Sand Creek Trail (terrain is mostly wood-chip path and sometimes uneven/sloping).

New Hope Shelter is in need of the following: Pinesol, Scotch Tape, Laundry Pods, Dishwasher Pods, Dishwashing Soap, 8 1/2 x 11 copy paper, 55+ gallon trash bags, Coffee, Creamer, Sugar, Bread, Napkins, Mayonnaise, Granola bars, Pudding Cups. If you can provide some of these supplies, they can be taken to New Hope, 900 West Broadway, Bldg. #7.

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation!

Come to Men and Boys Retreat, Mar. 31-Apr. 2 , at Camp Mennoscah, a long-standing, guys-only retreat. Enjoy time fishing, canoeing, worshiping, sitting by the fire, or visiting with friends in fellowship. The official beginning to the weekend is Saturday morning, but many arrive on Friday. There will be a worship service on Sunday morning. Meals can be purchased for Saturday night, Sunday morning and lunch. No pre-registration. Registration and payment will take place upon arrival. More information contact Kevin Neufeld at 316-322-5515.

Mennonite Central Committee Announcements
· MCC Central States Annual Meeting, Saturday, March 4, 1-3 p.m. you are invited to hear from MCC SALT alum Jason Schmidt and current IVEP participant Naomi Kwanza share about their MCC experiences. Naomi, from Tanzania is working at Jason’s Grazing Plains Farm in rural Kansas acquiring skills for making cheese and other dairy products to use back in her home country. Catch up with MCC Central States staff, find out about work happening across the region, check out the MCC building progress and enjoy some Grazing Plains cheese! Please RSVP to tinaschrag@mcc.org if you plan to attend. Thanks!
· Put your faith in action by volunteering with SWAP this summer! MCC’s SWAP (Sharing With Appalachian People) home repair program provides short-term service and learning opportunities for churches, school and university groups, families, other groups and individuals. Now is the time to make your summer plans and sign up! More information and registration at swap.mcc.org or (606) 634-4418.
· SAVE THE DATE! Come join the fun at 15th annual MCC Comforter Blitz on March 6, 7 and 8 on the Journey Yoder Campus, one mile north of Yoder, KS. Times are Monday and Tuesday 9-5 and Wednesday 9-4. No sewing skills are required, we will teach you. Lunch is available by donation each day, or you may bring your own sack lunch. Bring snacks to share during the workday. This event is hosted by Kansas Friends of MCC to make comforters for relief to be sent to refugees or places after natural disasters. Please contact the MCC Central States office with questions at #316-283-2720, or check the Comforter Blitz Facebook Page, “Kansas MCC Comforter Blitz”.

On Tuesday, February 28 at 7 p.m., the Dyck Arboretum of the Plains Winter Lecture Series will focus on “McPherson Valley Wetlands: Past, Present and Future” with Jason Black, Public Land Manager with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. Historically there were thousands of acres of wetlands in the McPherson Valley Wetlands complex which were of extreme importance to migratory birds, even supplying railroad car loads of waterfowl to Kansas City restaurants. Over time, these wetlands were gradually drained off the landscape. Hear the full story of this unique wetland ecosystem and the plans for its restoration from a Public Land Manager perspective. The lecture will be in the Prairie Pavilion at the Dyck Arboretum at 177 West Hickory in Hesston. Admission is $5 and can be paid at the door or ahead of time at dyckarboretum.square.site/classes.

For Anabaptist Disabilities Network Connections Newsletter press here.

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

Thank you to the anonymous donor(s) of items! Camp Mennoscah has received a few items off the wish list. The Amazon wish list is another wonderful list of camp needs and wants, especially since Amazon is closing their AmazonSmile program. The gift of items from any of the wish lists are a great way to continue to contribute to the mission of faith formation and relationship building at Camp Mennoscah.

Other events and happenings:

Youth Volunteer Weekend is March 24-25! Youth in Grades 6-12 are invited to come to this retreat focused on worship and service. The retreat begins on Friday at 7pm with registration followed by snacks, games, and campfire. Rachel and Isaac, the Senior High program directors, will lead activities. Ben Woodward-Breckbill will lead worship times. Register in the Summer Youth Camp section by adding a person or session, if you have already registered for camp.
Kitchen staff and nurses needed for summer youth camps from June 4 through July 28. Most people come out for a camp week, but we will also schedule partial weeks, as needed. Kitchen staff receive a camper discount for up to full camp fees and need to be able to follow directions with a willing spirit. Nurses must be an RN and can receive either a stipend or a camper discount. Contact us at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org!
Click to register! Summer youth camp registration is open and Camp Mennoscah is receiving registrations. The summer theme is FruitFULL Faith. Get ready to learn and sing about the Fruit of the Spirit this summer–it’s not a coconut!
Interviews for Summer Staff In Progress!We are seeking stunning summer staff to fill the following leadership positions for the 2023 summer: crafts, lifeguard, music, nature, office, and grounds. These positions are typically filled by college-age students, are summer-long and receive a stipend. Lifeguards and grounds are especially needed. It’s a summer of fun, service and faith formation!
Spring Scrapbook and Craft Retreat registration is open!Online registration can be found here. Croppers and crafters of all skill levels are welcome. Participants at the Scrapbook and Crafts Retreats will have lodging in the Retreat Center and work space at the Dining Hall. Grade 3 and above are welcome with an accompanying adult. Further details available on the website or at 620-297-3290. See you in March!
Help us Plan for the Future! A seven-question survey will help us know how camp is used and what you would like to see in the future. This survey will close at the end of February. Click here to tell us what you think!

From Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp

Mountain States Mennonite Conference Men’s Retreat at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp is March 3-5, 2023. The theme for this year’s retreat is “Life Transitions.” Retreat sessions will include “Personal Life Transitions” and “Vocation & Location Transitions” as well as a hymn singing session. The weekend starts the morning of Friday the 3rd with the annual workday, this year taking on the Emmental shower renovation project. Additionally, good music, food, fellowship, and play will be part of our time together. Who’s up for a couple of “sheets” of Human Curling (an RMMC original)? Or how about traditional curling? Snowshoeing? Online registration (www.rmmc.org) is open for all who want to get away from everyday life to experience fellowship and peace in the beauty that is Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp.

The Mountain States Mennonite Conference Women’s Retreat at Rocky Mountain Camp is coming March 10, 11, and 12. The theme of the weekend will be Meeting the Holy in Nature, and we are excited to welcome Jane Scanlon, who will lead us in “Forest Bathing” which is a practice that invites us to connect with our senses, and experience the natural world with a quiet mind and open heart. During our time together, we will deepen our connection to the holy in the natural world. Additionally, the weekend will include opportunities for fellowship and activities of your choosing, including yoga, hiking, human curling, and crafts, or you may choose to simply relax by the fireplace! Online registration is available at www.rmmc.org.

The Goshen College Chamber Choir will be performing a concert program “Lead with Love” at 7:00 PM on Sunday, February 26 at the First Mennonite Church of Hillsboro, KS as a part of their 2023 Midwest tour.
The music program at Goshen College is well-known for its outstanding ensembles and dedication to the arts. This group from Goshen, Indiana, will share the college’s rich singing tradition with inspiring and thought-provoking choral selections. The Chamber Choir, under the direction of Dr. Scott Hochstetler, will perform Let Thy Hand Be Strengthened (G.F. Handel), Symphony No. 9 Mvt. IV (“Ode to Joy” Beethoven), Stomp the Fire (A. Ramsey), and Lead with Love (M. DeMore), among other selections. The concert will feature instrumentalists as well as Dr. H. Roz Woll, mezzo soprano soloist.
The concert program is a selection of music expressing gratitude, joy, and love. Striving to affirm music’s power to transcend time and place, bringing all together in the spirit of acceptance. You are cordially invited to join us for this special concert event.

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here
For Mennonite Mission Network News from Around the World press here

For Mennonite World Conference Courier press here

Hesston College Spring Musical

March 1 to 5 – Spring Musical
Hesston College Performing Arts will present the musical The Apple Tree by Bock and Harnick, the same duo that wrote Fiddler on the Roof, in the Black Box Theater in Keim Center March 1 to 5. The Apple Tree is a series of three musical playlets – The Diary of Adam & Eve, The Lady or the Tiger, Passionella. Learn more at hesston.edu/fine-arts.

Mennonite Church USA

Menno Snapshots

During the first week of December 2022, the Executive Council of Mennonite World Conference (MWC) met to finish the business that they had begun in Indonesia in July. Linda Dibble, moderator for Mennonite Church USA and the MWC North American representative for the United States, shares about her experiences of connection with a diverse group of Anabaptists here: mennoniteusa.org/together-global-church

In celebration of the birthday of Anabaptism, which occurs on Jan. 21 each year, Mollee Moua, managing editor of the Anabaptism at 500 Project at MennoMedia, a Mennonite Church USA agency, shares about the work of making the Bible more accessible to all. Read her thoughts here: mennoniteusa.org/dangerous-work-scripture-together

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network
requests prayer for Iglesia Cristiana Menonita del Perú (Mennonite Christian Church of Peru), as they witness about the Prince of Peace during a time of national unrest.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for the retreat in San Antonio that the Church Planting Commission and conference minister Sandra Montes Martinez are planning. The event is called “Being the Church: Meeting our neighbors where they are,” and we pray that it bears fruit in encouraging emerging Anabaptist congregations in ministry that joins God in God’s work. -WDC Church Planting Commission

Announcements for February 19-26, 2023

February 19, 2023

Based on CDC Guidelines Harvey County is still in green status indicating
low risk for COVID. You are invited to choose whether you wear a mask or social distance. Both are optional.

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
February 19, 2023
Transfiguration Sunday

Prelude—Will Wiebe-Friesen

Christ Candle Lighting—Jonathan Zerger

Welcome and Prayer

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

Kin-dom Report—Heather Zerger

Children’s Conversation—Kevin Neufeld

Anthem—Chancel Choir; Riley King, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist

Scripture Reading—Exodus 24:12-18; Matthew 17:1-9—Sheryl Goering

Sermon—On the Mountain—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—Beloved, God’s Chosen—VT 164

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Don’t Be Afraid—VT 596

*Benediction— Nathan Koontz

Postlude—Will Wiebe-Friesen

* You are invited to stand
VT = Voices Together
Audio visual— Ben Lichti
Pastor—Nathan Koontz

This Week at BCMC: February 19-February 26, 2023
Sun., Feb. 19, 2023
9:30 am    Worship Service — YouTube Link for this Sunday is:
https://youtube.com/live/UJXmAUuLXJQ?feature=share
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:30 am Faith Formation—Intergenerational class meets in Fellowship Hall;   High School – Room 24
Adult Classes: Agape Class meets in the nursery; Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21)
Seekers (Rm 28) [They will be doing a “Ecclesiastes study” presented by Weldon Schloneger]
Mon., Feb. 20, 2023
7 pm        Newton Chorale rehearsal in the sanctuary
Tues., Feb. 21, 2023
7 pm         Women’s Fellowship meets in Fellowship Hall
Wed., Feb. 22, 2023
6:30 pm   Ash Wednesday Service in the Sanctuary
6:30 pm   Menno Ringers Rehearsal in Room B7
7 pm         Youth Group meets
7:30 pm   Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the Sanctuary
Thurs., Feb. 23, 2023
6:30 pm   Chancel Bell rehearsal in Room B7
7 pm         Newton Chorale rehearsal in the Sanctuary
Fri., Feb. 24, 2023
10-11 am Informal conversation about the book, Women Talking by
Miriam Toews in Fellowship Hall with Justina Neufeld and Dorothy Nickel Friesen hosting the discussion
Sun., Feb. 26, 2023—Lent 1: Shaped by Testing
9:30 am    Worship with sermon by Roger Neufeld Smith; music by Menno Ringers; Communion will be served; February birthday recognition

BCMC will begin the Lent Season with an Ash Wednesday service next Wednesday, February 22 at 6:30 pm in the Sanctuary.  For the 2023 Lent Devotional press here.

BCMC Women’s Fellowship meets Tues., Feb. 21, 7 p.m. in Fellowship Hall to hear Carol Peters present, “Using God’s Gifts for Quilting”. Louise Thieszen will share the history of Mission Quilters at BCMC. You are invited to bring something quilted and share that story. Use the south-east door.

Roger’s Whereabouts – Roger will return to Newton on Friday, February 24, and will preach on Sunday, February 26.

Upcoming memorial service planned at BCMC:
· Memorial service for Grace Schroeder, Saturday, March 25 at 11 am

BCMC Offering for February 12, 2023: General Fund $8,287; Sr Hi Youth $300; Jr Hi Fund $1,097; Kitchen Fund $11.

The Junior High Youth wants to thank the congregation for your generous support of the Super Bowl Snacks fundraiser last Sunday. $1,152 was raised for the Junior High Youth fund. Thank you!

Mark your calendars for Wednesday night suppers beginning March 1, 6:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall.

We offer sympathy to Hilda Regier on the death of her sister Elma (Regier) Harms, February 9, at Kidron Bethel Healthcare, North Newton.

A Family in Gazinatep, Turkey—A Student at Bethel College—How You Can Help! Dilan Bagci is an exchange student from Wuppertal, Germany. Dilan’s mother’s family live in Turkey. Her father’s siblings have emigrated to Germany. Dilan’s grandmother’s house, as well as her uncle’s were destroyed in the Feb. 6 earthquake. Fortunately, no one was hurt, although her grandmother has been in poor health. Subarna Bhattachan, a ‘92 BC grad from Nepal, knows what it’s like when disaster strikes in a home country far away. Subama has offered to donate a meal for up to 30 people to raise money for Dilan’s family. When: Friday, March 3, 2023, 6:30 pm at the Prairy Mezzanine—Minimum: $75 per person. To attend the dinner or to donate, contact Peggy at souderinkansas@yahoo.com or 316-836-6418.   See the poster on the BCMC bulletin board.

There will be an informal conversation about the book, Women Talking by Miriam Toews, and the movie based on the book on Friday, February 24, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall of Bethel College Mennonite Church. Justina Neufeld and Dorothy Nickel Friesen will host the discussion with Willmar Harder, Buhler Mennonite Church pastor, who was a MCC worker in Bolivia 2010 – 2014. Willmar was the liaison on behalf of the Mennonite colonies with the Bolivian government. Anyone who has read the book or seen the movie is welcome to attend!

Mark your calendars for Wednesday night suppers beginning March 1, 6:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall.

From the Board:
· Worship Commission:
At the beginning of the current program year, the Worship Commission
took a hiatus for reconsideration of the function and process of their work. The board formed the Worship Commission Task Group to explore the past experiences and future possibilities for the Commission. The BCMC board has now approved the Task Group’s recommendation that the Worship Commission be reestablished for the next program year. The Gifts Discernment Committee will seek nominees for the Worship Commission to be approved at our April congregational meeting. Thanks so much to the Task Group (Dorothy Nickel Friesen, Dale Schrag, Patty Shelly, and Adam Robb) for their thoughtful, thorough, and timely work and recommendation!
· Credentialing for Elizabeth Schmidt:
Those who have experienced Elizabeth’s ministry gifts along with Elizabeth’s own sense of calling lead her to seek licensure for specific ministry by the Western District Conference. This licensing grants all the privileges and responsibilities accorded to an ordained person but is focused on a specific role or ministry and does not lead to ordination. Elizabeth has met for discernment with Patty Shelly, Dorothy Nickel Friesen, and Nathan Koontz who offer much affirmation for her skills, characteristics, and motivation for licensing. The board, as representatives of the congregation, unanimously and joyfully affirmed the recommendation that Elizabeth pursue the process of licensing through Western District Conference for specific ministry in the role of Congregational Care Coordinator. Elizabeth Schmidt and Ada Schmidt-Tieszen, Moderator, are open to questions, comments, or affirmations. Elizabeth requests continued support as she seeks God’s guidance.

February 26 has been designated as “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner”
Sunday! “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” is a way for BCMC folks to get acquainted with other BCMC folks that they might not know very well. The Hospitality Commission will match people who sign up as hosts with people who sign up as guests. Guests: You will receive your food assignment this Sunday. Hosts: This Sunday you will receive the number of guests you will host.

There will be a volunteer training at New Hope Shelter Feb. 23, 7 p.m.
Volunteers are trained for what is expected of them on evenings from 5-11 p.m. Anyone who wishes to be a volunteer must be trained by a New Hope staff member beforehand, and this orientation gives one that preparation. Please consider becoming a New Hope volunteer and let Valetta Seymour know if you have questions.  seymour2314@gmail.com, 620-217-7536.

Life Enrichment for Feb. 23—Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center, Bethel College
9:30 am    “Moving a House to make a Home,” Omar Galle, professor emeritus, University of Texas, and Zona Platt Galle, M.S.W., retired, North Newton
10:35 am   “Aphasia: Loss of Language, NOT of Intellect?,” Harold Regier, NN
11:30 am   “A Tale of Western Music through Lyrics and Melody,” Jeff Davidson, Eureka

Bethel College Announcements
· Sun., Feb. 19 – KIPCOR Film Series presents No Time to Waste: The Urgent Mission of Betty Reid Soskin, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. The film’s subject will be present via Zoom for the talkback following the film. No Time to Waste looks at the legendary 101-year-old park ranger’s inspiring life, work and determination to restore critical missing chapters of America’s story. Free and open to the public, with a freewill offering taken to support KIPCOR and the film series.
· Tues., Feb. 21 – Bethel College Chamber Orchestra concert, directed by Kristopher Hilding, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Features music of Vivaldi, Brahms, Dvořák and Saint-Saëns. Livestream will be available at https://www.youtube.com/@bethelcollegemusicdepartment (Bethel College Music Department YouTube channel).
· Thurs., Feb. 23 – Greer Lecture with ceramicist Stacey Stanhope Dundon, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel, followed by a reception for the artist and her exhibit “Farm to Table” at the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center, Bethel College. Exhibit closes Fri., Feb. 24. Gallery hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays.
· Sun., Feb. 26 – Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum program, 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum. Raylene Hinz-Penner, North Newton, will speak on her recently published memoir, with “East of Liberal: Notes on the Land – Exploring the Myths, Contradictions and Resilience.”
· Sun., Feb. 26 – Bethel College Concert Choir Tour Send-off Concert, directed by Dr. Henry Waters, 7 p.m., Memorial Hall (please note the change in date from some previously printed calendars)

· Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) is seeking a Donor Relations Associate: This role is responsible for assisting in the implementation of the donor relations strategy for MCC Central States by stewarding major donors involving face-to-face contact to meet the budgeted income goals and generate the necessary resources to accomplish the mission of MCC. This is a full-time position; office location is flexible. Apply online by February 24 at mcc.org/donor-relations-associate. For more information contact Amber Falcón at 574-534-4133 or amberfalcon@mcc.org.
· MCC Central States annual meeting, March 4 from 1-3 p.m. at MCC in North Newton, Kansas. This will primarily be an in-person event, but if you would like a link to join via Zoom please email tinaschrag@mcc.org for the link.

SAVE THE DATE! Come join the fun at 15th annual MCC Comforter Blitz on March 6, 7 and 8 on the Journey Yoder Campus, one mile north of Yoder, KS. Times are Monday and Tuesday 9-5 and Wednesday 9-4. No sewing skills are required, we will teach you. Lunch is available by donation each day, or you may bring your own sack lunch. Bring snacks to share during the workday. This event is hosted by Kansas Friends of MCC to make comforters for relief to be sent to refugees or places after natural disasters. Please contact the MCC Central States office with questions at #316-283-2720, or check the Comforter Blitz Facebook Page, “Kansas MCC Comforter Blitz”.

· Newton Et Cetera Shop invites you to become a volunteer! Help us to share God’s love with all creation by volunteering in clothing, clerking, recycling, linens, housewares or one of our other departments. If you’d like to join us, please stop by, call us at 316.283.9461, or attend one of our upcoming volunteer orientations to tell us what interests you: Thurs., 2/16/23 5-6 p.m. or Thurs. 3/09/23 5-6 p.m.
· Newton Et Cetera Shop welcomes your donations at our back door Tues.-Fri. 9:30-5:00 and Sat. 9:30-3:00. We’re happy to help you find new homes for your gently-used clothing, furniture, home goods, toys, books, movies, small electronics, and more. Please call us with any questions if you’re wondering what we’ll accept: 316-283-9461. Your donations help to support people in need in our community and around the world through the work of our local partners and Mennonite Central Committee!

Prairie Bronze Handbell Ensemble invites you to join us in an hour-long concert celebrating faith and unity. Repertoire includes You Raise Me Up, Siyahamba, Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah, Steal Away, and Amazing Grace (with violinist Nancy Johnson). In McPherson at Trinity Lutheran, 119 N. Elm, at 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 5. In Newton at First Presbyterian, 900 Columbus, at 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 12.

Personnel
Director: Vada Snider; Ringers: Darlene Buller, Kendra Flory, Janelle Flory Schrock, Nancy Johnson, Martha Szambecki, Karen Loucks, Katie Gihring, Brenda Turner, Jenny Switzer, Kent Dick, Eric Goering, Trek Wedel, Todd Wedel

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation!

For Mennonite Mission Network Seeds of Peace press here
For Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level press here
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

Kitchen staff and nurses needed for summer youth camps from June 4 through July 28. Most people come out for a camp week, but we will also schedule partial weeks, as needed. Kitchen staff receive a camper discount for up to full camp fees and need to be able to follow directions with a willing spirit. Nurses must be an RN and can receive either a stipend or a camper discount. Contact us at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org!

Other events and happenings:

Youth Volunteer Weekend is March 24-25! Youth in Grades 6-12 are invited to come to this retreat focused on worship and service. The retreat begins on Friday at 7pm with registration followed by snacks, games, and campfire. Rachel and Isaac, the Senior High program directors, will lead activities. Register in the Summer Youth Camp section by adding a person or session, if you have already registered for camp.
Click to register! Summer youth camp registration is open and Camp Mennoscah is receiving registrations. The summer theme is FruitFULL Faith. Get ready to learn and sing about the Fruit of the Spirit this summer–it’s not a coconut!
Interviews for Summer Staff In Progress!We are seeking stunning summer staff to fill the following leadership positions for the 2023 summer: crafts, lifeguard, music, nature, office, and grounds. These positions are typically filled by college-age students, are summer-long and receive a stipend. Lifeguards and grounds are especially needed. It’s a summer of fun, service and faith formation!
Spring Scrapbook and Craft Retreat registration is open!Online registration can be found here. Croppers and crafters of all skill levels are welcome. Participants at the Scrapbook and Crafts Retreats will have lodging in the Retreat Center and work space at the Dining Hall. Grade 3 and above are welcome with an accompanying adult. Further details available on the website or at 620-297-3290. See you in March!
Help us Plan for the Future! A seven-question survey will help us know how camp is used and what you would like to see in the future. This survey will close at the end of February. Click here to tell us what you think!

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

Menno Snapshots
Cynthia Lapp, pastor at Hyattsville Mennonite Church in Maryland, writes about the challenges she has faced serving as a chaplain to the local police – and the impact this work has had in her community and in her own life. Read more: mennoniteusa.org/police-reform-hyattsville

#MennoCon23

Interested in volunteering at MennoCon23, Kansas City, Mo., July 3-6? Mennonite Church USA is seeking coordinators for special events, children’s and junior youth programming, and more! Fill out a form here: mennoniteusa.org/mennocon-volunteer-form

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network’s Service Adventure leaders are gathering this week at Camp Friedenswald in Michigan. Pray for them as they worship, fellowship and discern together how to enrich their ministries in the households and communities where they live and work.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC staff members as they carry out conference ministries to support ministers, provide resources for congregations, and equip church planting partnerships.

Announcements for February 12-19, 2023

February 12, 2023

Based on CDC Guidelines Harvey County is still in green status indicating
low risk for COVID. You are invited to choose whether you wear a mask or social distance. Both are optional.

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
February 12, 2023

Prelude—Angel Eyes (Brickman); Der Friedensfürst (G. Meyer)- Erich Boschmann, piano

Christ Candle Lighting

Welcome and Prayer— Dorothy Nickel Friesen

*Hymn—Jesus Calls Us—VT 30—Verlene Garber, piano; Suzanne Burch, guitar

Children’s Conversation— Crystal Gaeddert

Anthem – Prelude on Holy Manna (arr. Marker)–Chancel Bells; Verlene Garber, director

Kin_dom Report – Bill Swartley

Scripture Reading—Jeremiah 1:1, 4-8; Mark 1:9-11, 16-20—Roger Juhnke and Lucy Burch

Sermon—A Culture of Call— Roger Neufeld Smith

*Hymn—Listen, God is Calling—VT 765

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Christ Be in Your Senses— VT 721

*Benediction— Roger Neufeld Smith

Postlude— Lift Every Voice and Sing (arr. Smith)–Chancel Bells

* You are invited to stand
VT = Voices Together
Audio visual— John Thiesen
Pastor–Roger Neufeld Smith

This Week at BCMC: February 12-February 19, 2023
Sun., Feb. 12, 2023
9:30 am    Worship Service
10:30 am   Pastoral Search Committee meeting in the Agape House
YouTube Link for this Sunday is:  https://youtube.com/live/SbMedCfbgpo?feature=share
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:30 am Faith Formation—Intergenerational class meets in Fellowship Hall;   High School – Room 24
Adult Classes: Agape Class meets in the nursery; Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21)
Seekers (Rm 28) [They will be doing a “Ecclesiastes study” presented by Weldon Schloneger]
Mon., Feb. 13, 2023
6:30 pm Community Playschool Board meeting in Fellowship Hall
7 pm        Newton Chorale rehearsal in the sanctuary
Wed., Feb. 15, 2023
9 am        Women’s Fellowship Executive Board meeting in Fellowship Hall
6:30 pm   Menno Ringers Rehearsal in Room B7
7 pm         Youth Group meets
7:30 pm   Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the Sanctuary
Thurs., Feb. 16, 2023
4:30 pm   Witness Commission meeting in Room 14
6:30 pm   Chancel Bell rehearsal in Room B7
7 pm         Newton Chorale rehearsal in the Sanctuary
7 pm         Bethel College Women’s Association meeting in Fellowship Hall
Fri., Feb. 17, 2023
11:30 am Sojourners Sunday School Class Lunch in Fellowship Hall
Sat., Feb. 18, 2023
1 pm          Memorial Service for Marilyn Loeffler in the Sanctuary
Sun., Feb. 19, 2023
9:30 am    Worship Service with sermon by Nathan Koontz; music by Chancel Choir
10:30 am   Faith Formation

After the worship service Sunday the members of the Junior High Club will be selling an assortment of Super Bowl snacks. Snacks will be sold by donation. Donations go toward the Junior High Fund which is used to support activities like Snow Camp.

From the Board:

· Worship Commission:
At the beginning of the current program year, the Worship Commission
took a hiatus for reconsideration of the function and process of their work. The board formed the Worship Commission Task Group to explore the past experiences and future possibilities for the Commission. The BCMC board has now approved the Task Group’s recommendation that the Worship Commission be reestablished for the next program year. The Gifts Discernment Committee will seek nominees for the Worship Commission to be approved at our April congregational meeting. Thanks so much to the Task Group (Dorothy Nickel Friesen, Dale Schrag, Patty Shelly, and Adam Robb) for their thoughtful, thorough, and timely work and recommendation!

· Credentialing for Elizabeth Schmidt:
Those who have experienced Elizabeth’s ministry gifts along with Elizabeth’s own sense of calling lead her to seek licensure for specific ministry by the Western District Conference. This licensing grants all the privileges and responsibilities accorded to an ordained person but is focused on a specific role or ministry and does not lead to ordination. Elizabeth has met for discernment with Patty Shelly, Dorothy Nickel Friesen, and Nathan Koontz who offer much affirmation for her skills, characteristics, and motivation for licensing. The board, as representatives of the congregation, unanimously and joyfully affirmed the recommendation that Elizabeth pursue the process of licensing through Western District Conference for specific ministry in the role of Congregational Care Coordinator. Elizabeth Schmidt and Ada Schmidt-Tieszen, Moderator, are open to questions, comments, or affirmations. Elizabeth requests continued support as she seeks God’s guidance.

Welcome to Fernando Pérez and Rebeca González, who will join us in worship Sunday as guests from Iglesia Menonita Casa Betania, where they are serving as a couple in a shared transitional pastoral role during the coming year. Rebeca and Fernando are visiting from Mexico, bringing a rich experience in Spanish-speaking Anabaptist education and church-related ministries. Thank you to BCMC members for your support for Casa Betania during this transitional time!

Roger’s Whereabouts – Roger is traveling back to Topeka today. He will return to Newton on Friday, February 24, and will preach on Sunday, February 26.

BCMC Offering for February 5, 2023: General Fund $10,289.33; Sr Hi Youth $561; Living Stones $300; Kitchen Fund $14; Women’s Fellowship $50; Screen Project $1,245.

December was a wildly successful in terms of giving, January not so much. The income for January was $9,925 less than expenses. According to the church treasurer’s records, this is the sixth slowest start in the last 8 years. Please remember this as you make plans for your February giving.
– Finance Committee

To our BCMC family, We thank you for the cards and words of sympathy we received both preceding and following the death of Kathy’s brother, Jimmy Jackson. We are grateful that we have such a supportive church community. Your love and kindness provide us needed strength during this time of acceptance of God’s master plan. With our gratitude, Frank and Kathy

The Women’s Fellowship Executive Board will meet Wednesday the 15th in Fellowship Hall at 9:00 a.m.

Upcoming memorial services planned at BCMC:
· Memorial service for Marilyn Loeffler, Saturday, Feb. 18 at 1 pm
· Memorial service for Grace Schroeder, Saturday, March 25 at 11 am

February 26 has been designated as “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner”
Sunday! “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” is a way for BCMC folks to get acquainted with other BCMC folks that they might not know very well. The Hospitality Commission will match people who sign up as hosts with people who sign up as guests. Guests: You will receive your food assignment next Sunday, February 19. Hosts: Next Sunday, February 19, you will receive the number of guests you will host.

Come to Men and Boys Retreat, Mar. 31-Apr. 2 , at Camp Mennoscah, a long-standing, guys-only retreat. Enjoy time fishing, canoeing, worshiping, sitting by the fire, or visiting with friends in fellowship. The official beginning to the weekend is Saturday morning, but many arrive on Friday. There will be a worship service on Sunday morning. Meals can be purchased for Saturday night, Sunday morning and lunch. No pre-registration. Registration and payment will take place upon arrival. More information contact Kevin Neufeld at 316-322-5515.

Life Enrichment for Feb. 16—Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center, Bethel College
9:30 am “Let’s Hop Over the Gate!”, Jennifer Isaacs, assistant director, Wren House, Valley Center
10:50 am “Writing East of Liberal: Broadening My Perspective of the Land,” Raylene Hinz Penner, North Newton, lecturer emeritus, Department of English, Washburn University

Bethel College Announcements
· Sun., Feb. 19 – KIPCOR Film Series presents No Time to Waste: The Urgent Mission of Betty Reid Soskin, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. The film’s subject will be present via Zoom for the talkback following the film. No Time to Waste looks at the legendary 101-year-old park ranger’s inspiring life, work and determination to restore critical missing chapters of America’s story. Free and open to the public, with a freewill offering taken to support KIPCOR and the film series.
· Tues., Feb. 21 – Bethel College Chamber Orchestra concert, directed by Kristopher Hilding, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center
· Thurs., Feb. 23 – Greer Lecture with ceramicist Stacey Stanhope Dundon, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel, followed by a reception for the artist and her exhibit “Farm to Table” at the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center, Bethel College. Exhibit closes Fri., Feb. 24. Gallery hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays, 2-4 p.m. Sundays.
· Sun., Feb. 26 – Bethel College Concert Choir Tour Send-off Concert, directed by Dr. Henry Waters, 7 p.m., Memorial Hall (please note the change in date from some previously printed calendars)

SAVE THE DATE! Come join the fun at 15th annual MCC Comforter Blitz on March 6, 7 and 8 on the Journey Yoder Campus, one mile north of Yoder, KS. Times are Monday and Tuesday 9-5 and Wednesday 9-4. No sewing skills are required, we will teach you. Lunch is available by donation each day, or you may bring your own sack lunch. Bring snacks to share during the workday. This event is hosted by Kansas Friends of MCC to make comforters for relief to be sent to refugees or places after natural disasters. Please contact the MCC Central States office with questions at #316-283-2720, or check the Comforter Blitz Facebook Page, “Kansas MCC Comforter Blitz”.

· Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) is seeking a Donor Relations Associate: This role is responsible for assisting in the implementation of the donor relations strategy for MCC Central States by stewarding major donors involving face-to-face contact to meet the budgeted income goals and generate the necessary resources to accomplish the mission of MCC. This is a full-time position; office location is flexible. Apply online by February 24 at mcc.org/donor-relations-associate. For more information contact Amber Falcón at 574-534-4133 or amberfalcon@mcc.org.
· MCC Central States annual meeting, March 4 from 1-3 p.m. at MCC in North Newton, Kansas. This will primarily be an in-person event, but if you would like a link to join via Zoom please email tinaschrag@mcc.org for the link.

Mennonite Central Committee is accepting donations to support people affected by the Feb. 6 earthquake in Türkiye (Turkey) and Syria. MCC is working with long-term partners in Aleppo and surrounding areas to provide emergency food, shelter, hygiene, sanitation supplies and trauma counseling. In a country already vulnerable from years of conflict, this was a devastating blow. You can share God’s love and compassion with our global neighbors by providing a gift online at mcc.org/earthquake, by calling (888) 563-4676 or by sending a check earmarked for “Syria and Türkiye earthquake” to MCC, PO Box 500, Akron PA 17501.
MCC and MCUSA are partnering in a new webinar series, Beyond incarceration: A hard look at dismantling the prison system and building healthy communities. Join us to learn about the ways the faith community is actively understanding and working against these complex systems of confinement. The webinars will take place on Feb. 7, Feb. 21, March 7, and March 21 at 6:30 p.m. CST/5:30 p.m. MST. They will be followed by learning tour opportunities in different parts of the U.S. Registration link: mcc.org/beyond-incarceration-webinars

· Newton Et Cetera Shop is hosting a Women’s Clothing Extravaganza Feb. 16-18! We have an overflow of clothing donations, thanks to our generous donors, and want to pass along the generosity to our customers. On the week of Valentine’s Day, this event is a way for us to show our love for our community by sharing generously what we’ve been given, to show love for the earth by shopping second-hand and reducing our carbon footprint, and to show love for those in need by raising funds for our Local Giving grants and Mennonite Central Committee. During this special event, all women’s clothing items in bins on the sales floor will be $3 each. This includes women’s tops, pants, skirts and dresses. The store is located at 619 N. Main St. in Newton. Special business hours for the event are 10-7 Thursday, Feb. 16, and their usual business hours 10-5:30 Friday, Feb. 17, and Saturday, Feb. 18. Shoppers should note that because of the volume of clothing, the dressing rooms will not be available for this special sale. They will need to plan to try on items over their own clothing.
· Newton Et Cetera Shop invites you to become a volunteer! Help us to share God’s love with all creation by volunteering in clothing, clerking, recycling, linens, housewares or one of our other departments. If you’d like to join us, please stop by, call us at 316.283.9461, or attend one of our upcoming volunteer orientations to tell us what interests you: Thurs., 2/16/23 5-6 p.m. or Thurs. 3/09/23 5-6 p.m.
· Newton Et Cetera Shop welcomes your donations at our back door Tues.-Fri. 9:30-5:00 and Sat. 9:30-3:00. We’re happy to help you find new homes for your gently-used clothing, furniture, home goods, toys, books, movies, small electronics, and more. Please call us with any questions if you’re wondering what we’ll accept: 316-283-9461. Your donations help to support people in need in our community and around the world through the work of our local partners and Mennonite Central Committee!

Everence^® webinar: Social Security and retirement income
Everence^® will hold an informative Social Security and retirement income webinar on Thursday, Feb. 23, starting at 6:30 p.m. Specifics will include, Social Security strategies, including when to begin taking benefits, risks that can impact your retirement savings plus strategies to help your income last throughout retirement. There will also be time for questions.

Information will be presented by staff from the Everence offices in Central Kansas. To register contact Everence at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com.
Securities offered through Concourse Financial Group Securities, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. Investments and other products are not NCUA or otherwise federally insured, may involve loss of principal and have no credit union guarantee.
Products and services offered through Everence Trust Company and other Everence entities are independent of and are not guaranteed or endorsed by Concourse Financial Group Securities, or its affiliates.

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

Youth Volunteer Weekend is March 24-25! Youth in Grades 6-12 are invited to come to this retreat focused on worship and service. The retreat begins on Friday at 7pm with registration followed by snacks, games, and campfire. Rachel and Isaac, the Senior High program directors, will lead activities. Register in the Summer Youth Camp section by adding a person or session, if you have already registered for camp.

Other events and happenings:

Click to register! Summer youth camp registration is open and Camp Mennoscah is receiving registrations. The summer theme is FruitFULL Faith. Get ready to learn and sing about the Fruit of the Spirit this summer–it’s not a coconut!
Interviews for Summer Staff In Progress!We are seeking stunning summer staff to fill the following leadership positions for the 2023 summer: crafts, lifeguard, music, nature, office, and grounds. These positions are typically filled by college-age students, are summer-long and receive a stipend. Lifeguards and grounds are especially needed. It’s a summer of fun, service and faith formation!
Spring Scrapbook and Craft Retreat registration is open!Online registration can be found here. Croppers and crafters of all skill levels are welcome. Participants at the Scrapbook and Crafts Retreats will have lodging in the Retreat Center and work space at the Dining Hall. Grade 3 and above are welcome with an accompanying adult. Further details available on the website or at 620-297-3290. See you in March!
Help us Plan for the Future! A seven-question survey will help us know how camp is used and what you would like to see in the future. This survey will close at the end of February. Click here to tell us what you think!

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation!

The Western District Resource Commission is offering Mustard Seed Grants for up to $500 to WDC congregations who are seeking to share the good news of Jesus in their communities. This is seed money for creative ideas for connecting with neighbors, so relationships can be strengthened and the reconciling love of God can be shared. The hope is that these grants will empower congregations to examine ways to link good news and good works together in a way that is authentically Anabaptist. The grants are available through January 31, 2024.

Criteria for the Mustard Seed Grant include:

an identifiable connection to the surrounding community
a way to build relationships with fellow church members as well as the broader community
congregational buy-in to the program (matching fund/sweat equity)
applicants must be from a WDC congregation
if awarded grant, a short report about the impact this has made on your congregation and community will be shared with WDC

Go to https://mennowdc.org/wdc-mustard-seed-grant-application-2/ to apply.

Blessings as you ponder ways to embolden individuals to share the good news so that God’s healing and hope may flow through you and out into the world.

Community Health Assessment Survey
A survey may be completed by anyone age 18+ and who lives or works in Harvey County.

The assessment is completed every three years. Paper surveys are located at each library in the county. The survey is open through Friday, February 24. Collective survey information along with data points will be shared with stakeholders who will help to prioritize three to five health issues to focus on over the next three years.

Take the health survey to tell us what are the health issues in Harvey County.
English survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CHNA2023
Spanish survey: https://es.surveymonkey.com/r/CHNA2023ES

For a letter and Biodegradable Containers Policy from Jim Robb, Chair of Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale press here.

For Mennonite Mission Network Making our way press here
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

Menno Snapshots
What happens when you hold a Mennonite Church USA conference ministers retreat in San Francisco, California? Lots of chocolate (Ghirardelli, of course), conversation and connection! Connie Zehr, moderator and acting conference minister of New York Mennonite Conference, reflects on her experience at her first conference minister’s retreat. Read more of her reflections here: mennoniteusa.org/connections-chocolate

For Frank Scoffield Sánchez, a speaker at Mennonite Church USA’s recent Hope for the Future conference for BIPOC leaders, his example of faith as he was growing up was full of contradictions. When he and his wife became Mennonite, about seven years ago, he began to ask questions about these contradictions. Read more of his thoughts here: mennoniteusa.org/time-as-this

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Christy Harrison and Peter Sensenig and their three children are engaged in ministry in Chad, jointly serving with Eastern Mennonite Missions (EMM) and Mennonite Mission Network. Pray for them as they share Jesus’ love in their daily lives — Peter, as he teaches at Shalom Faculty of Evangelical Theology; Christy, as she works at a hospital; and their children, as they interact with classmates and neighbors.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC chaplains, pastors and congregational care teams who offer support to church and community members living with mental, emotional, and physical health challenges.

For the 2023 Lent Devotion press here
Copies are also available in the Gathering Place at BCMC

Announcements for February 5-12, 2023

February 5, 2023 – Youth Sunday

Based on CDC Guidelines Harvey County is still in green status indicating
low risk for COVID. You are invited to choose whether you wear a mask or social distance. Both are optional.

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
February 5, 2023
Church b changin’

Prelude—Lucy Burch, Will Wiebe-Friesen

Christ Candle Lighting—Maisie Brubacher, Payne Claassen

Land Acknowledgement—Lily Schloneger

Welcome and Prayer—Justin Zerger

*Hyrs—Here in This Place—VT 10

Children’s Conversation—Adah Hodge, Abram Wall

*Hyrs—Guide My Feet—VT 816

Scripture Reading—Galatians 3:26-28—Emma Gering

Reflections—Ani Koontz, Mara Oswald

*Hyrs—Rain Down—VT 703— Ani Koontz, solo- verse 1; Lucy Burch, flute; Chancel Choir- verses 2,3; Congregation-chorus

Prayers of God’s People—Ani Koontz

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

*Benediction—Mara Oswald

Postlude—Lily Schloneger

* You are invited to stand
VT = Voices Together
Chancel Choir Director—Riley King; accompanist—Will Wiebe-Friesen
Keyboard- Will Wiebe-Friesen
Audio visual— Ben Lichti
Pastor—Nathan Koontz
Youtube Link: https://youtube.com/live/MbpQ2h1bhzM?feature=share

This Week at BCMC: February 5-February 12, 2023
Sun., Feb. 5, 2023—Senior High Youth Group Leads Worship
9:30 am     Worship Service
10:30 am   Faith Formation
2:30 pm     Kansas Mennonite Men’s Chorus rehearsal in the sanctuary

The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:30 am Faith Formation—Intergenerational class meets in Fellowship Hall;   High School – Room 24
Adult Classes: Agape Class meets in the nursery; Bible Study (Rm 14);
Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Mosaic (Rm 20); Open Circle (Room 21); Seekers (Rm 28)
Mon., Feb. 6, 2023
7 pm       Facilities Committee meeting in Fellowship Hall
Wed., Feb. 8, 2023
6 pm        BCMC Decolonization Task Group meeting in Room 14
6:30 pm   Menno Ringers Rehearsal in Room B7
7 pm         Youth Group meets
7:30 pm   Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the Sanctuary
Thurs., Feb. 9, 2023
6:30 pm   Chancel Bell Rehearsal in Room B7
Fri., Feb. 10, 2023
11 am       Memorial service for Vel Teichroew in the Sanctuary
Sun., Feb. 12, 2023
9:30 am    Worship Service with sermon by Roger Neufeld Smith;
prelude by Erich Boschmann; music by Chancel Bells
10:30 am   Faith Formation
10:30 am   Pastoral Search Committee meeting in the Agape House

Roger’s Whereabouts – Roger traveled back to Topeka this past Friday, but will return to Newton this coming Thursday, February 9, and will preach on February 12.

After the worship service next Sunday, February 12, the members of the Junior High Club will be selling an assortment of Super Bowl snacks. Snacks will be sold by donation. Donations go toward the Junior High Fund which is used to support activities like Snow Camp.

February 26 has been designated as “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” Sunday! “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” is a way for BCMC folks to get acquainted with other BCMC folks that they might not know very well. The Hospitality Commission will match people who sign up as hosts with people who sign up as guests. Guests: You will receive your food assignment next Sunday, February 19. Hosts: Next Sunday, February 19, you will receive the number of guests you will host.

Thank you to the Senior High Youth Group for leading the worship service Sunday morning!

Thank you for your support on our January 29th soup luncheon fundraiser. We appreciate your generosity and your company. A special thanks to Ben Lichti for his help behind the scenes. We lived through the cold, we laughed in your company, and we loved being with our congregation. The BCMC Senior High Youth Group. #LiveLaughLove

Menno Ringers—All students 3rd grade through 8th grade interested in ringing handbells are welcome! Rehearsals are each Wednesday, 6:30 pm in Room B7.

BCMC Offering for January 29: General Fund $5,717; Sr Hi Youth $2,892; Living Stones $50; Kitchen Fund $21.

Please remember in your prayers the members of the BCMC Sunday School class The Sojourners. Sojourners have met in various places in the church over the years and more recently in the Chapel. Due to declining attendance they have found it necessary to disband. They will be having a lunch together at BCMC on Friday, Feb. 17 at 11:30 am.

The Library Theme for the next couple of months is Black History. The Library Committee pulled part of the books that we have in our collection which are displayed either in back of the library desk or on the shelving in the Children’s Room. Please come see what we have to offer! Also, don’t forget that we still have puzzles for your puzzling pleasure right outside of the library door and more on the west wall of the library. Please come browse and place a donation in the envelope if you find one that catches your fancy.

There are three upcoming memorial services planned at BCMC:
· Memorial service for Vel Teichroew, Friday, Feb. 10 at 11 am
· Memorial service for Marilyn Loeffler, Saturday, Feb. 18 at 1 pm
· Memorial service for Grace Schroeder, Saturday, March 25 at 11 am

Life Enrichment for Feb. 9—Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center, Bethel College
9:30 am    “The HMC Way,” Sara Kelly, outreach coordinator, and Re’An Will, outreach assistant, Health Ministries, Newton
10:35 am   “The Miracle of Chase Kear,” Paul and Paula Kear, Colwich
11:30 am   “On Two Wheels at 15,000 Feet (an MCC Learning Tour in Bolivia),” Joe Smucker, Goessel

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

Click to register! Summer youth camp registration is open and Camp Mennoscah is receiving registrations. The summer theme is FruitFULL Faith. Get ready to learn and sing about the Fruit of the Spirit this summer–it’s not a coconut!

Other events and happenings:

Youth Volunteer Weekend is March 24-25! Youth in Grades 6-12 are invited to come to this retreat focused on worship and service. The retreat begins on Friday at 7pm with registration followed by snacks, games, and campfire. Rachel and Isaac, the Senior High program directors, will lead activities. Register in the Summer Youth Camp section by adding a person or session, if you have already registered for camp.
Interviews for Summer Staff In Progress!We are seeking stunning summer staff to fill the following leadership positions for the 2023 summer: crafts, lifeguard, music, nature, office, and grounds. These positions are typically filled by college-age students, are summer-long and receive a stipend. Lifeguards and grounds are especially needed. It’s a summer of fun, service and faith formation!
Spring Scrapbook and Craft Retreat registration is open!Online registration can be found here. Croppers and crafters of all skill levels are welcome. Participants at the Scrapbook and Crafts Retreats will have lodging in the Retreat Center and work space at the Dining Hall. Grade 3 and above are welcome with an accompanying adult. Further details available on the website or at 620-297-3290. See you in March!
Do you have a hankering for a giant bonfire? Camp Mennoscah has several burn piles and tall grass areas that need to be burned.This takes several people, a full day and cooperating weather. Burning hasn’t been done for a few years and we’d like to have the piles and tall grass done for safety reasons. Call 620-297-3290 or email office@campmennoscah.org to volunteer.
Or maybe dirt is your thing? The last few rows and the side aisles of the amphitheater still need to have dirt added. Call 620-297-3290 or email office@campmennoscah.org to help move dirt. Many hands make light work–invite a friend!
Help us Plan for the Future! A seven-question survey will help us know how camp is used and what you would like to see in the future. This survey will close at the end of February. Click here to tell us what you think!

We are so excited to share with you the catalog for the 2023 Camp Mennoscah season! Fun-filled summer days await you at Camp Mennoscah where we are ready to welcome campers new and old to come build their house upon the Rock while they play in the sand.

Attached to this email you will find a digital copy of our catalog, and we welcome you to register here for the upcoming summer season! Detailed information about our Summer Youth Camps and our Program Directors can be found here, on the Camp Mennoscah website.

Registration is also open for our two Spring Scrapbooking and Crafts Retreats, which we will be hosting on March 10-12 and March 17-19. Folks of all crafts and skill levels are welcome to join us, and you can register online here to save yourself a spot!

We’re looking forward to a fantastic and joy-filled 2023 and hope that you will be able to join us.

If you have any questions about any of our upcoming retreats, the registration process, or Camp Mennoscah in general, don’t hesitate to reach out! We would love to hear from you and hope to see you soon.

Men and Boys Retreat, March 31-April 2 – Come to Camp Mennoscah for this long-standing, guys-only retreat! Enjoy time fishing, canoeing, worshiping, sitting by the fire, or visiting with friends in fellowship. The official beginning to the weekend is Saturday morning, but many arrive on Friday. There will be a worship service on Sunday morning. Meals can be purchased for Saturday night, Sunday morning and lunch. No pre-registration. Registration and payment will take place upon arrival. For more information contact Kevin Neufeld at 316-322-5515.

Bethel College Announcements
· Tues., Feb. 7 – Bethel College Organ Recital Series presents David Pickering, organ, and Audrey Pickering, cello and organ, 7 p.m., in a program featuring works by J.S. Bach, Lübeck, Alain, Bloch and Gawthrop, Administration Building chapel
· Sun., Feb. 19 – KIPCOR Film Series presents No Time to Waste: The Urgent Mission of Betty Reid Soskin, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. This film looks at the legendary 101-year-old park ranger’s inspiring life, work and determination to restore critical missing chapters of America’s story. An audience talkback will follow the screening. Free and open to the public, with a freewill offering taken to support KIPCOR and the film series.
· Now in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College – “Farm to Table,” ceramics by Stacey Stanhope Dundon, through Fri., Feb. 24. Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
· SAVE THE DATE: Sun., Feb. 26 – Bethel College Concert Choir Tour Send-off Concert (please note the change in date from some previously printed calendars)

February 6 – Sunflower Performing Arts: Our Song, Our Story: The New Generation of Black Voices
Join Hesston College’s Sunflower Performing Arts on February 6 at 7 p.m. in Hesston Mennonite Church for a great performance, Our Song, Our Story. Performing opera, art song, spirituals and jazz these world class black artists will pay homage to Marian Anderson and Jessye Norman who were at the vanguard of black classical singers. Tickets can be purchased online at hesston.edu/sunflower-performing-arts/ or by calling 620-327-8158.

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation!

MCC and MCUSA are partnering in a new webinar series, Beyond incarceration: A hard look at dismantling the prison system and building healthy communities. Join us to learn about the ways the faith community is actively understanding and working against these complex systems of confinement. The webinars will take place on Feb. 7, Feb. 21, March 7, and March 21 at 6:30 p.m. CST/5:30 p.m. MST. They will be followed by learning tour opportunities in different parts of the U.S. Registration link: mcc.org/beyond-incarceration-webinars Download Flyer here.

Mennonite Central Committee Announcements
MCC is seeking a Donor Relations Associate: This role is responsible for assisting in the implementation of the donor relations strategy for MCC Central States by stewarding major donors involving face-to-face contact to meet the budgeted income goals and generate the necessary resources to accomplish the mission of MCC. This is a full-time position; office location is flexible. Apply online by February 24 at mcc.org/donor-relations-associate. For more information contact Amber Falcón at 574-534-4133 or amberfalcon@mcc.org.

MCC Central States annual meeting, March 4 from 1-3 p.m. at MCC in North Newton, Kansas. This will primarily be an in-person event, but if you would like a link to join via Zoom please email tinaschrag@mcc.org for the link.

Volunteer with MCC Thrift today! You can support the relief development and peace work of Mennonite Central Committee AND your local community when you volunteer at your local MCC Thrift shop! By volunteering, you’ll make friends, gain work experience, and help make a difference in your community and around the world. From sorting to pricing to working the cash register, we’ve got a job that’s right for you. Sign up to volunteer thrift.mcc.org/volunteer!

Mennonite Central Committee Annual Run for Relief
Mark your calendars and plan to join us for the 26th Annual KS MCC Run for Relief on Saturday, April 15, 2023. We would love to see you all again at this event. The entry form and sponsor form are attached, and as in years passed, we also have the online registration option…the link is below. We also have a Facebook page (Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale-Run/Walk for Relief 5K), where you can see updates. https://runsignup.com/Race/KS/Hutchinson/KMRSRunWalkForRelief5k

For Mennonite Men press here
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

It is with great sadness that Mennonite Church USA announces the passing of James (“Jim”) Frederick Schrag, 78, pastor, leader and first executive director of the denomination, on Saturday, Jan. 7, 2023, in North Newton, Kansas. Read more about his life of service here: mennoniteusa.org/news/mourns-first-executive

February is Black History Month. Be sure to check out Mennonite Church USA’s timeline honoring “Black History in the Mennonite Church.” mennoniteusa.org/resource/black-history

Mennonite Church USA and Mennonite Central Committee are partnering in a new, four-part webinar series on mass incarceration, beginning Feb. 7 at 7:30 ET/4:30 PT. Join us to learn about the ways the faith community is actively understanding and working against these complex systems of confinement. Learn more and register here: mcc.org/beyond-incarceration-webinars

#MennoCon23
Registration for MennoCon23 will open on March 1. Mennocon23 will be held in Kansas City, Mo., July 3-6, immediately followed by the Mennonite Church USA Delegate Assembly and the new Youth and Young Adult Climate Summit. Subscribe to MC USA’s PeaceMail weekly newsletter for the latest updates. Mennoniteusa.org/peacemail View a slide for PeaceMail: mennoniteusa.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/PeaceMail-slide.pptx View a MennoCon23 slide: mennoniteusa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/MennoCon23.pptx

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Today, Hope for the Future’s three-day conference concludes in Atlanta, Georgia. Mennonite Mission
Network requests prayer for the Mennonite Black, Indigenous and People of Color leaders, as they return to their congregations and communities, strengthened by worship and fellowship. Pray also for White allies to work toward God’s justice.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for God’s guidance and blessing for WDC youth and their sponsors, pastors and families, in their journey of growing faith and discipleship.

Announcements for January 29 – February 5, 2023

January 29, 2023 – Fourth Sunday After the Epiphany

Based on CDC Guidelines Harvey County is still in green status indicating
low risk for COVID. You are invited to choose whether you wear a mask or social distance. Both are optional.

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
January 29, 2023
Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany

Prelude— “Together” (Nathan Grieser); “Untitled Hymn” (Chris Rice); “Will You Let me Be Your Servant” (Richard Gillard)—Meghann Rogers

Christ Candle Lighting

Welcome and Prayer—Sondra Koontz

*Hymn—Holy Spirit, Come with Power—VT 57

Children’s Conversation—Rebecca Schloneger

*Hymn—I Sought the Lord—VT 161

Scripture Reading—Matthew 5:1-12; 1 Corinthians 1:18-25—Brad Born

Sermon—After— Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—One is the Body—VT 386

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Move in Our Midst— VT 827
People with January birthdays come forward for a blessing, please bring a hymnal

*Birthday Blessing & Benediction— Nathan Koontz

Postlude—”Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us” (arr. by Chris Rice)—Meghann Rogers

* You are invited to stand
VT = Voices Together
Audio visual— Francis Toews
Pastor—Nathan Koontz

This Week at BCMC: January 29-February 5, 2023
Sun., Jan. 29, 2023
9:30 am    Sermon by Nathan Koontz
11:45 am Fundraiser Soup Lunch served by the Senior High Youth Group in the Fellowship Hall—Everyone is invited!
12:45 pm   Congregational Meeting in the Sanctuary
YouTube Link for this Sunday is:  https://youtu.be/ejtrkdcphfA
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:30 am Faith Formation—Intergenerational class meets in Fellowship Hall;   High School – Room 24
Adult Classes: Agape Class meets in the nursery; Bible Study (Rm 14);
Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Mosaic (Rm 20); Open Circle (Room 21); Seekers (Rm 28);
Sojourners (Chapel)
Tues., Jan. 31, 2023
1 pm         Staff meeting in Room 14
Wed., Feb. 1, 2023
6 pm        BCMC Repair Task Group meeting in Room 14
6:30 pm   Menno Ringers Rehearsal in Room B7
7 pm         Youth Group meets
7:30 pm   Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the Sanctuary
Thurs., Feb. 2, 2023
6:30 pm   Chancel Bell Rehearsal in Room B7
7 pm         Church Board meets in Room 14
Sun., Feb. 5, 2023—Senior High Youth Group Leads Worship
9:30 am    Worship Service
10:30 am   Faith Formation
2:30 pm     Kansas Mennonite Men’s Chorus rehearsal in the sanctuary

Youth Group Soup Lunch is in Fellowship Hall at 11:45 am. Table service will be provided.

Congregational Meeting Announcement

The congregational meeting will be on Sunday, January 29, at 12:45 in the sanctuary. You may watch on YouTube at the time of the meeting only; it will not be recorded for later viewing. Although there will not be a way to participate in discussion, you may vote on an item during the meeting by texting “yes” or “no” to the following number: 620 747-0185. If there are several people in the household, you may send a vote for each person represented by the text.. YouTube Link for the congregational meeting is:
https://youtu.be/Ye0dtKEB4n0

Menno Ringers—All students 3rd grade through 8th grade interested in ringing handbells are welcome! Rehearsals are each Wednesday, 6:30 pm in Room B7.

Pastoral Search Committee
The Search Committee has begun their work with an orientation from Western District Conference pastor Kathy Neufeld Dunn. Search Committee members are Heather Zerger (chair), Megan Kohlman, Doug Penner, Lois Preheim, and John Waltner. Thank you to all these members for the important work they will be doing! The Search Committee’s work will be informed by and run parallel to the work of the Credence Report Task Group which will oversee decisions and implementation of recommendations from the Credence and Company consultants. Thank you for your support and prayers as these dual processes move forward.

BCMC Offering for January 22:  General Fund $9,360.33; Senior High Youth Group $100; Living Stones $48.33; Kitchen Fund $29; Women’s Fellowship $563.47.

The Library Theme for the next couple of months is Black History. The Library Committee pulled part of the books that we have in our collection which are displayed either in back of the library desk or on the shelving in the Children’s Room. Please come see what we have to offer! Also, don’t forget that we still have puzzles for your puzzling pleasure right outside of the library door and more on the west wall of the library. Please come browse and place a donation in the envelope if you find one that catches your fancy.

February 26 has been designated as “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” Sunday! “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” is a way for BCMC folks to get acquainted with other BCMC folks that they might not know very well. The Hospitality Commission will match people who sign up as hosts with people who sign up as guests. Sunday there will be sign up sheets at the back of the church, for being either a host or a guest for a dinner.

Pastor Roger Neufeld Smith will be in North Newton Sunday for worship and the congregational meeting and later in the week in order to attend meetings. He will travel back to Topeka Friday morning, February 3. He is available by voice mail or text when necessary at 785-220-1968 or by email:  roger@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org

Message from Elizabeth Schmidt, Congregational Care Coordinator
“Behold, I am doing a new thing!”   I am excited about coordinating new ways of welcoming, caring and connecting in our congregation! I’ve begun care visits and visiting Faith Formation classes to gather wisdom and get to know you better. I am working with Deacons on visitation and welcoming visitors and new members. Be watching for announcements about new caring opportunities to arise, and be emboldened to share your ideas – in person, by email to elizabeth@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org, and by calling the church office. Office hours: I plan to be in the office on Wednesdays, with half days on Tuesday afternoons and Thursday mornings.

The memorial service for Vel Teichroew will be Friday February 10, 11 am at BCMC.

The memorial service for Grace Schroeder will be Saturday, March 25. Exact time of the service will be announced later.

Life Enrichment for Feb. 2—Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center, Bethel College
9:30 am    “Faithful Journeys,” A.B. Stokes, Bethel College head football coach
10:35 am   “The Impact of Social Media on Youth and the Classroom,” Brian Skinner, 2022 Kansas Techer of the Year
11:30 am   “KanCare Expansion-The Movement Too Urgent to Be Ignored,” April Holman, executive director, Alliance for a Healthy Kansas, Topeka

Mennonite Central Committee and Mennonite Church USA are partnering in a new webinar series, Beyond incarceration: A hard look at dismantling the prison system and building healthy communities.Join us to learn about the ways the faith community is actively understanding and working against these complex systems of confinement. The webinars will take place on Feb. 7, Feb. 21, March 7, and March 21 at 6:30 p.m. CST/5:30 p.m. MST. They will be followed by learning tour opportunities in different parts of the U.S. Registration link: mcc.org/beyond-incarceration-webinars

Bethel College Announcements
· Now in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College – “Farm to Table,” ceramics by Stacey Stanhope Dundon, through Fri., Feb. 24 (artist lecture and reception Feb. 23). Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
· Sat., Feb. 4 – Kauffman Museum bird walk, 8 a.m. start time in the museum parking lot at the corner of Main and 27th streets (2801 N. Main St., North Newton 67117). Experienced birders lead a walk of 1-1.5 hours in Chisholm Park and on Sand Creek Trail (terrain is mostly wood-chip path and sometimes uneven/sloping).
· Tues., Feb. 7 – Bethel College Organ Recital Series presents David Pickering, organ, and Audrey Pickering, cello and organ, 7 p.m., in a program featuring works by J.S. Bach, Lübeck, Alain, Bloch and Gawthrop, Administration Building chapel

New Hope Shelter Announcement: Please contact Valetta Seymour if you can consider becoming a New Hope Shelter volunteer. Generally, we have people to provide meals, but evening volunteers are needed. Contact: seymour2314@gmail.com 620-217-7536

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

As we approach the end of the last month of our fiscal year, Western District Conference invites you to share a gift with WDC to help our congregations Witness & invite others to faith in Jesus Christ, Dwell in just & loving relationships, and Connect to God’s mission in the world. Current projections suggest that WDC income will fall short of expenses for the current year. Your generous gifts are invited to help close the gap towards WDC’s 2022 budget goal! You may make an online contribution HERE (credit card, PayPal, Google Pay accepted) or send a check to Western District Conference, PO Box 306, North Newton KS 67117. We are grateful for your generosity!

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

Spring Scrapbook and Craft Retreat registration is open!Online registration can be found here. Croppers and crafters of all skill levels are welcome. Participants at the Scrapbook and Crafts Retreats will have lodging in the Retreat Center and work space at the Dining Hall. Grade 3 and above are welcome with an accompanying adult. Further details available on the website or at 620-297-3290. See you in March!

Other events and happenings:

Summer Youth Camp Registration will open at the beginning of February. We’re excited, too!
Interviews for Summer Staff In Progress!We are seeking stunning summer staff to fill the following leadership positions for the 2023 summer: crafts, lifeguard, music, nature, office, and grounds. These positions are typically filled by college-age students, are summer-long and receive a stipend. Let us know who you think would make a great summer staffer at Camp Mennoscah. It’s a summer of fun, service and faith formation!
Do you have a hankering for a giant bonfire? Camp Mennoscah has several burn piles and tall grass areas that need to be burned.This takes several people, a full day and cooperating weather. Burning hasn’t been done for a few years and we’d like to have the piles and tall grass done for safety reasons. Call 620-297-3290 or email office@campmennoscah.org to volunteer.
Help us Plan for the Future! A seven-question survey will help us know how camp is used and what you would like to see in the future. This survey will close at the end of February. Click here to tell us what you think!

Mark your calendars and plan to join us for the 26th Annual KS MCC Run for Relief on Saturday, April 15, 2023. We would love to see you all again at this event. The entry form and sponsor form are attached, and as in years passed, we also have the online registration option…the link is below. We also have a Facebook page (Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale-Run/Walk for Relief 5K), where you can see updates. Photos will be posted here of race-day activities. Please let me or another member of our committee know if you have any questions.

For Mennonite World Conference press here

For Mennonite Mission Network News from around the world press here

For Mennonite Creation Care Network press here

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Hesston College Announcements
February 4 – The Small Glories
Join the Dyck Arboretum Feb. 4 at 7 p.m. to hear The Small Glories. They have stage banter that strikes a unique balance between slapstick and sermon and are veteran singer-songwriters. Crust & Crumb will be serving during intermission. Learn more at dyckarboretum.org/events.

February 4 to 5 – Know Jesus
The junior high event, Know Jesus, will return to Hesston College Feb. 4 and 5 after its break due to COVID. The HC Bible Department works with two Mennonite Church USA area conferences: South Central and Western District to provide a weekend of Christian formation for students in grades 5 through 8. Register at mennowdc.org/know-jesus-registration-is-open/.

February 6 – Sunflower Performing Arts: Our Song, Our Story: The New Generation of Black Voices
Join Hesston College’s Sunflower Performing Arts on February 6 at 7 p.m. in Hesston Mennonite Church for a great performance, Our Song, Our Story. Performing opera, art song, spirituals and jazz these world class black artists will pay homage to Marian Anderson and Jessye Norman who were at the vanguard of black classical singers. Tickets can be purchased online at hesston.edu/sunflower-performing-arts/ or by calling 620-327-8158.

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Mennonite Church USA has released the MennoCon23 block schedule and registration rates. Learn more about MennoCon23 here: mennoniteusa.org/mennocon23-schedule

Menno Snapshots
Sarah Augustine, co-founder and executive director of the Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery Coalition, is both Indigenous and a Mennonite, two identities that she believes complement one another. In her blog post, “I am Indigenous and an Anabaptist,” she shares how she incorporates her cultural heritage into her faith journey. Read it here: mennoniteusa.org/i-am-indigenous-and-an-anabaptist

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for the Tucson, Arizona, Mennonite Voluntary Service unit, made up of Michaela Esau, Cade Fisher, Jessie Landis and Andrea Troyer. The MVSers help extend the ministries of their host congregation, Shalom Mennonite Fellowship, by working with the Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery Coalition and adult literacy, immigration and refugee rights, and environmental protection programs.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for wisdom and insight for the WDC Executive Board, as it implements action steps growing out of its anti-racism audit completed last year.

Announcements for January 22-29, 2023

January 22, 2023 – Anabaptist World Fellowship Sunday

Based on CDC Guidelines Harvey County is still in green status indicating
low risk for COVID. You are invited to choose whether you wear a mask or social distance. Both are optional.

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
January 22, 2023
Anabaptist World Fellowship Sunday

Prelude— O, When Shall I See Jesus (arr. Hustad); The Kingsfold Trumpet (arr. Fedak)—
Will Wiebe-Friesen

Christ Candle Lighting

Welcome and Prayer—Doug Siemens

*Hymn—We Are People of God’s Peace—VT 797

Children’s Conversation—Glen Ediger

Anthem— Let All the World (K. Lee Scott)—Chancel Choir; Riley King, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist

Scripture Reading— Psalm 62:1-6; Luke 18:35-43 Jane Goering

Sermon—Anabaptist or Mennonite: Whose Choice? —Nathan Koontz

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

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—We, Your People, Sing Your Praises—VT 849

*Benediction—VT 850

Postlude— Wer nur den lieben Gott läßt walten (J.S. Bach)—Will Wiebe-Friesen

* You are invited to stand
VT = Voices Together
Audio visual— Ben Lichti
Pastor—Nathan Koontz

This Week at BCMC: January 22-29, 2023
Sun., Jan. 22, 2023—Anabaptist World Fellowship Sunday
9:30 am    Sermon by Nathan Koontz; music by Chancel Choir
YouTube Link for this Sunday is:  https://youtu.be/kqA26fB2hP8

The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:30 am Faith Formation—Intergenerational class meets in Fellowship Hall;   High School – Room 24
Adult Classes: Agape Class meets in the nursery; Bible Study (Rm 14);
Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Mosaic (Rm 20); Open Circle (Room 21); Seekers (Rm 28);
Sojourners (Chapel)
Mon., Jan. 23, 2023
10 am        Library Committee meets in Room 14
Wed., Jan. 25, 2023
6:30 pm   Menno Ringers Rehearsal in Room B7
7:30 pm   Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the Sanctuary
Thurs., Jan. 26, 2023
4 pm         Hospitality Commission meets in Room 14
6:30 pm   Chancel Bell Rehearsal in Room B7
7 pm         Deacon Commission meets in Room 14
Sun., Jan. 29, 2023
9:30 am    Sermon by Nathan Koontz
11:45 am Fundraiser Soup Lunch served by the Senior High Youth Group in the Fellowship Hall
12:45 pm   Congregational Meeting in the Sanctuary

BCMC Offering for January 15: General Fund $13,230.33; Library Reserve Fund $15; Living Stones $33.33; Kitchen Fund $15; Paul Harder Memorial $1,025.

A Slight Change in Roger’s Travel Schedule
In order to be able to attend meetings during the week following the congregational meeting, Roger has adjusted his travel schedule to Newton from the dates previously announced. The next time Roger will travel to Newton will be Sat., Jan. 28. He will travel back to Topeka Fri. morning, Feb. 3. Roger is still available by email: roger@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org or by voice mail or text when necessary (785-220-1968).

Congregational Meeting Set for January 29
The next congregational meeting will take place on Sun., Jan. 29, at 12:45 following a soup lunch prepared by the Youth Group. The meeting will be held in the sanctuary and made available live on YouTube only while the meeting is in progress; it will not be recorded. Votes from remote viewers can be texted to a number available in Sunday’s bulletin and announced at the beginning of the meeting. Agenda items will include a finance report from 2022 as well as approval of the budget for 2023, reports from several committees and commissions, and updates on the Search Committee and Credence and Company process.

There will be a fundraising soup lunch before the meeting at 11:45 am in Fellowship Hall, prepared and served by the Senior High Youth Group.

Menno Ringers—All students 4th grade through 8th grade interested in ringing handbells are welcome! Rehearsals are each Wednesday, 6:30 pm in Room B7.

Pastoral Search Committee
The Search Committee has begun their work with an orientation from Western District Conference pastor Kathy Neufeld Dunn. Search Committee members are Heather Zerger (chair), Megan Kohlman, Doug Penner, Lois Preheim, and John Waltner. Thank you to all these members for the important work they will be doing! The Search Committee’s work will be informed by and run parallel to the work of the Credence Report Task Group which will oversee decisions and implementation of recommendations from the Credence and Company consultants. Thank you for your support and prayers as these dual processes move forward.

Thank you BCMC for accepting the financial challenge and getting the job done. When the church’s books closed at the end of December, all financial obligations were met and there was a $14,000 surplus that was distributed among the churches benevolent partners. You made this possible and we thank you for accepting the challenge and for your great effort. – Finance Committee.

February 26 has been designated as “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” Sunday! “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” is a way for BCMC folks to get acquainted with other BCMC folks that they might not know very well. The Hospitality Commission will match people who sign up as hosts with people who sign up as guests. There will be sign up sheets at the back of the church for the next two Sundays, for being either a host or a guest for a dinner.

Message from Elizabeth Schmidt, Congregational Care Coordinator
“Behold, I am doing a new thing!” I am excited about coordinating new ways of welcoming, caring and connecting in our congregation! I’ve begun care visits and visiting Faith Formation classes to gather wisdom and get to know you better. I am working with Deacons on visitation and welcoming visitors and new members. Be watching for announcements about new caring opportunities to arise, and be emboldened to share your ideas – in person, by email to elizabeth@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org, and by calling the church office. Office hours: I plan to be in the office on Wednesdays, with half days on Tuesday afternoons and Thursday mornings.

Call for gently-used gift bags and baskets!
While you are doing post-holiday clean-up, or New Year’s de-cluttering, here is a creation care and caring connection opportunity! Your donations of gently-used gift bags and baskets may be deposited on pews in the back of the sanctuary, for future repurposing as care packages. “The Lord loveth a cheerful giver!”

The Library Theme for the next couple of months is Black History. The Library Committee pulled part of the books that we have in our collection which are displayed either in back of the library desk or on the shelving in the Children’s Room. Please come see what we have to offer! Also, don’t forget that we still have puzzles for your puzzling pleasure right outside of the library door and more on the west wall of the library. Please come browse and place a donation in the envelope if you find one that catches your fancy.

Bethel College Announcements
· (Sun., Jan. 22) – Bethel College Music Department Honors Recital, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel, featuring vocal and instrumental students who performed exceptionally during the fall 2022 semester, including piano, oboe, trumpet, saxophone, violin and voice.
· Sat., Jan. 28 – Kauffman Museum annual Kansas Day event, “Kansans Create!,” noon-4 p.m., museum parking lot and grounds. Featuring local artists and artisans, a community art project, food trucks and much more. For more information, see the Kauffman Museum Facebook page or kauffmanmuseum.org, or call 316-283-1612.

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation!

As we enter the last month of our fiscal year, Western District Conference invites you to share a gift with WDC to help our congregations Witness & invite others to faith in Jesus Christ, Dwell in just & loving relationships, and Connect to God’s mission in the world. Current projections suggest that WDC income will fall short of expenses for the current year. Your generous gifts are invited to help close the gap towards WDC’s 2022 budget goal! You may make an online contribution HERE (credit card, PayPal, Google Pay accepted) or send a check to Western District Conference, PO Box 306, North Newton KS 67117. We are grateful for your generosity!

New Hope Shelter Announcement We greatly need to increase our volunteer base as we head into the new year and with the new building only one year away, do as much as we can to provide two volunteers each evening per shift. If you have anyone who is interested in volunteering, please let me know. My volunteer training sessions are normally planned at the end of each month based on availability and need. — Shonda M Suddeth, Shelter/Volunteer Coordinator (316) 283-7711, shonda@newhope-shelter.org Please contact Valetta Seymour if you can consider becoming a New Hope Shelter volunteer. Generally, we have people to provide meals, but evening volunteers are needed. Contact: seymour2314@gmail.com 620-217-7536

WANTED: Your stories. To share at the “Schweitzers and Friends” 150th celebration of Swiss Volhynian Mennonites coming to the U.S. in 1874, planned for Aug. 23-25, 2024. Everyone loves the stories told about days gone by. This event gives us opportunity to collect ancestor stories. Brian Adams from Massachusetts would like to edit stories for a Swiss Volhynian book with the help of his daughter Casey Adams (cpadams992@gmail.com). Brian says no stories are too small or inconsequential. He has heard stories from his Grandfather Jacob (Red Jake) Krehbiel from Moundridge. Think of a story you could share and send to Brian. Themes could be family, faith, agriculture, language. We would all love to read those stories at the celebration event in 2024. Brian’s contacts: smolts123@yahoo.com. Phone: 413-586-3063 and he could interview you by phone. — Kathy Goering for the planners

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

Everence Opportunities: Everence makes it easy to find ways to give back and support your favorite charity. My Neighbor Card: Everence donates 1.50% of every purchase you make to the charity of your choice. Donor Advised Funds allows you to grow funds intended for charitable giving at any time.

For Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level press here
For MennoCon23 Seminar Suggestions press here
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here
For Mennonite World Conference press here

Dyck Arboretum Announcements
January 23 – Nature Book Club
Join the Dyck Arboretum January 23 at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom to participate in their Nature Book Club. Books this month will be “How the Penguins Saved Veronica” by Hazel Prior and “Horizon” by Barry Lopez. Register and learn more at dyckarboretum.org/events.

January 29 – The Barefoot Movement
Join the Dyck Arboretum January 29 at 4 p.m. to hear The Barefoot Movement. They are an acclaimed Americana group that has carved out a space in the acoustic scene. Crust & Crumb will serve sweet and savory treats during intermission. Learn more at dyckarboretum.org/events.

January 31 – Attracting Bees & Beneficial Insects with Native Plants
Join the Dyck Arboretum January 31 at 7 p.m. via Zoom to be a part of their presentation Attracting Bees & Beneficial Insects with Native Plants. Heather Halm will present. Register and learn more at dyckarboretum.org/events.

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
This Friday and Saturday, please pray for the Mennonite Church USA Executive Board, as they meet online by Zoom. May God grant them wisdom and clarity during their time together.

In November 2022, the National Faith Leaders Climate Roundtable, which is made up of 16 U.S. denominational leaders — including Glen Guyton, Mennonite Church USA’s Executive Director — gathered to discuss climate justice. They acknowledged the importance of engaging local congregations and communities to reach their climate goals. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/accelerate-climate-action

Menno Snapshots
What does it take for a rural church to install solar panels? For Metamora (Illinois) Mennonite Church, it required a team with a vision, a lot of planning and some flexibility, along with some help from the Mennonite Creation Care Network. Karla Kauffman, a therapist who is developing expertise in climate grief work, outline’s Metamora Mennonite’s process in “A rural congregation goes solar: Metamora (Illinois) Mennonite Church.” Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/metamora-illinois-mennonite-church

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Pray, with Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission and Mennonite Mission Network, for the Mennonite churches in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which continue to bring the message of God’s healing and love to those who were injured and traumatized by the Kamuina Nsapu rebellion four years ago.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC pastors, chaplains and other credentialed ministers, and give thanks for the important ministries and leadership they offer.

Announcements for January 15-22, 2023

January 15, 2023 – Martin Luther King Jr. Sunday

Based on CDC Guidelines Harvey County has returned to green status indicating
low risk for COVID. You are invited to choose whether you wear a mask or social distance. Both are optional.

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
January 15, 2023
Martin Luther King Jr. Sunday

Prelude— His Eye Is on the Sparrow and Just a Closer Walk With Thee—(Two gospel song settings by Jack Schrader)—Karen Unruh, piano

Christ Candle Lighting

Welcome and Prayer—Dave Linscheid

*Hymn—Guide My Feet—VT 816—Ron Garber, soloist on first phrase of each verse

Children’s Conversation—Margaret Goering

Anthem—Celebrate With Joy (Cynthia Dobrinski) and ‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus (arr. Sandra Eithun)—Chancel Bells; Verlene Garber, director

Scripture Reading—Micah 4:1-4—Zona Galle

Sermon—Martin Luther King’s Challenge to Peaceful Mennonites—Roger Neufeld Smith

*Hymn—Christ is Alive! Let Christians Sing—VT 359

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Lift Every Voice and Sing—VT 611

*Benediction—Roger Neufeld Smith

Postlude—Soon and Very Soon–(Andraé Crouch)—Karen Unruh

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Audio visual—John Thiesen
Pastor—Nathan Koontz

This Week at BCMC: January 15-22, 2023
Sunday, Jan. 15, 2023-Martin Luther King, Jr. Sunday
9:30 am    Worship with sermon by Roger Neufeld Smith; music by
Chancel Bells
YouTube Link for this Sunday is:  https://youtu.be/3bSEgO4ci6Y
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:30 am Faith Formation—Intergenerational class meets in Fellowship Hall;   High School – Room 24
Adult Classes: Agape Class meets in the nursery; Bible Study (Rm 14);
Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Mosaic (Rm 20); Open Circle (Room 21); Seekers (Rm 28);
Sojourners (Chapel)
Mon., Jan. 16, 2023—Martin Luther King Jr. Day—office will be closed and church building will be locked
4 pm       Pastor Search Committee meet in Room 14
Wed., Jan. 18, 2023
6:30 pm   Menno Ringers Rehearsal in Room B7
7:30 pm   Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the Sanctuary
Thurs., Jan. 19, 2023
6:30 pm   Chancel Bell Rehearsal in Room B7
7 pm         Bethel College Women’s Association meeting in Fellowship Hall
Sun., Jan. 22, 2023—Anabaptist World Fellowship Sunday
9:30 am    Sermon by Nathan Koontz; music by Chancel Choir

Pastor Nathan Koontz will be away January 14-16, 2023.

BCMC Offering for January 8: General Fund $14,068.27; Living Stones $1,150; Kitchen Fund $21; Women’s Fellowship $90.

February 26 has been designated as “Guess Who’s Coming to
Dinner” Sunday! “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” is a way for BCMC folks to get acquainted with other BCMC folks that they might not know very well. The Hospitality Commission will match people who sign up as hosts with people who sign up as guests. There will be sign up sheets at the back of the church, for being either a host or a guest for a dinner, for the next two Sundays.

FROM THE NEWTON COMMUNITY FOR RACIAL JUSTICE AND THE HARVEY COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Mon., Jan. 16, 2 p.m., Harvey County Historical Museum & Archives, 203 N. Main St., Newton (next door to Petersen’s Funeral Home) – The public is invited to an afternoon of storytelling and learning with members of Newton’s Black community. Co-sponsored by the Harvey County Historical Society and Newton Community for Racial Justice.

We offer sympathy to the family of Grace Schroeder. Grace died Jan. 10 at Schowalter Villa, Hesston. Following is a note from Elaine Prouty:

“ I’m writing to inform you that Hank’s dear aunt Grace Schroeder, a long time BCMC member, passed away peacefully this afternoon at Schowalter Villa. She’d been struggling with pneumonia and had been failing; the last two weeks have been difficult. Her daughter Cathy Holdeman (of Wichita) and her son Jeff Schroeder (of Los Alamos, New Mexico) were with her at the time she passed.
Her children have requested services at a later time, probably in the spring when her grandchildren (who are scattered across the United States) can be here.”

Menno Ringers—All students 4th grade through 8th grade interested in ringing handbells are welcome to come tonight at 6:30 pm in Room B7.

Thank you to the characters creating a scene on Epiphany Sunday: Adah Hodge, Glen Ediger, David Kreider, Dale Schrag and last but not least, plus appearing twice, the camel crew stars – Miles Brubacher, Collin and Brett Gaeddert, Justin and Addison Zerger guided by Tim Hodge and Adam Robb.

Roger will be driving back to Topeka this afternoon but will be checking his BCMC email regularly while in Topeka. (roger@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org). He is also available by voice mail or text when necessary (785-220-1968). Roger will be back in the BCMC office from Wednesday, January 26 at 1:00 p.m., and staying in Newton through the annual meeting on Sunday, January 29. His schedule for his days in Newton beyond January 29 is still a “work in progress”. Thanks for your patience and your prayers.

Message from Elizabeth Schmidt, Congregational Care Coordinator
“Behold, I am doing a new thing!”
I am excited about coordinating new ways of welcoming, caring and connecting in our congregation! I’ve begun care visits and visiting Faith Formation classes to gather wisdom and get to know you better. I am working with Deacons on visitation and welcoming visitors and new members. Be watching for announcements about new caring opportunities to arise, and be emboldened to share your ideas – in person, by email to elizabeth@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org, and by calling the church office. Office hours: I plan to be in the office on Wednesdays, with half days on Tuesday afternoons and Thursday mornings.

Call for gently-used gift bags and baskets!
While you are doing post-holiday clean-up, or New Year’s de-cluttering, here is a creation care and caring connection opportunity! Your donations of gently-used gift bags and baskets may be deposited on pews in the back of the sanctuary, for future repurposing as care packages. “The Lord loveth a cheerful giver!”

Marvin and Ruthann Dirks have moved to Assisted Living in Ft. Collins, CO. Their new address is: 1002 Rule Dr., Apt. 205, Fort Collins, CO 80525 Phone: 316-772-0618; Email: dirksrut@gmail.com

Bethel College Announcements
· Mon., Jan. 16 – Bethel College celebration of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, featuring Dr. Marché Fleming-Randle from Wichita State University, “Together We Can Be THE Dream,” 7 p.m., Memorial Hall
· Sun., Jan. 22 – Bethel College Music Department Honors Recital, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel, featuring freshman, sophomore and junior vocal and instrumental students who performed exceptionally during the fall 2022 semester.
· Sat., Jan. 28 – Kauffman Museum annual Kansas Day event, “Kansans Create!,” noon-4 p.m., museum parking lot and grounds (corner of Main & 27th Streets, North Newton). Featuring local artists and artisans, a community art project, food trucks and much more. For more information, see the Kauffman Museum Facebook page or kauffmanmuseum.org

New Hope Shelter Announcement We greatly need to increase our volunteer base as we head into the new year and with the new building only one year away, do as much as we can to provide two volunteers each evening per shift. If you have anyone who is interested in volunteering, please let me know. My volunteer training sessions are normally planned at the end of each month based on availability and need. — Shonda M Suddeth, Shelter/Volunteer Coordinator
(316) 283-7711, shonda@newhope-shelter.org Please contact Valetta Seymour if you can consider becoming a New Hope Shelter volunteer. Generally, we have people to provide meals, but evening volunteers are needed. Contact: seymour2314@gmail.com 620-217-7536

Registration is beginning for the 2023 season of Kansas Mennonite Men’s Chorus (KMMC). Those who sang last year will find a registration form in your church mail box. We are working to recover after the pandemic. Numbers were significantly down last year. Please consider joining this year. Please contact Joe Peters for registration forms. We sing that others may live.

WANTED: Your stories. To share at the “Schweitzers and Friends” 150th celebration of Swiss Volhynian Mennonites coming to the U.S. in 1874, planned for Aug. 23-25, 2024. Everyone loves the stories told about days gone by. This event gives us opportunity to collect ancestor stories. Brian Adams from Massachusetts would like to edit stories for a Swiss Volhynian book with the help of his daughter Casey Adams (cpadams992@gmail.com). Brian says no stories are too small or inconsequential. He has heard stories from his Grandfather Jacob (Red Jake) Krehbiel from Moundridge. Think of a story you could share and send to Brian. Themes could be family, faith, agriculture, language. We would all love to read those stories at the celebration event in 2024. Brian’s contacts: smolts123@yahoo.com. Phone: 413-586-3063 and he could interview you by phone. — Kathy Goering for the planners

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

Everence Opportunities: Everence makes it easy to find ways to give back and support your favorite charity. My Neighbor Card: Everence donates 1.50% of every purchase you make to the charity of your choice. Donor Advised Funds allows you to grow funds intended for charitable giving at any time.

College scholarships available: Everence offers college scholarships for Everence members and their children. Eligible students receive scholarships up to $3,000 for the 2023-2024 academic year. Applications are accepted Jan. 1 through Feb. 28.Visit everence.com/scholarships for eligibility guidelines and application. Information is also available by contacting Jim Robb.

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation!

Hesston College Announcements
Missional Leadership Class
The “M” word. You’ve heard it, you’re intrigued, but what does it really mean? Join Michele Hershberger to learn what the word “missional” means and how a proper understanding of this concept can transform your congregation! As part of the class, Missional Leadership, you will see the Bible through a missional lens and learn great tips for starting your church on a journey of spiritual renewal and growth! You can join the class in person on Hesston’s campus or online via Zoom on Monday evenings starting January 16 through May 8, 6:30 to 8:45 p.m. central time. Contact Michele Hershberger at michele.hershberger@hesston.edu for more information.

January 14 – Masterworks Performance
Join Hesston College Performing Arts for a celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend on January 14 at Hesston Mennonite Church. The performance will feature music by African American composers and is titled “I Believe.” Find more information at hesston.edu/masterworks or join the concert virtually at hesston.edu/livestream.

January 15 – Lindsay Lou
Join the Dyck Arboretum January 15 at 4 p.m. to hear Lindsay Lou. She is a singer, songwriter, musician, and performer who demands the listener’s attention. Crust & Crumb will serve sweet and savory treats during intermission. Learn more at dyckarboretum.org/events.

For MennoCon23 Seminars press here
For Mennonite Mission Newtwork News and Beyond press here
For Mennonite Creation Care Network press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
The Kineo Center, a ministry partner of Mennonite Church USA, offers cohort programs for pastors and leaders experiencing burnout, and a new cohort begins Feb. 5. The program features a 24-week, online discussion group and a four-day trip to the Kineo retreat center in Puerto Rico. Learn more about this opportunity here: mennoniteusa.org/kineo-center-cohort

Menno Snapshots
From a young age, Cristian Alemán, outreach coordinator and bilingual music director for College Mennonite Church in Goshen, Indiana, knew he might one day lose his sight, but he did not know the lessons that he would learn from the experience. Adriana Celis, a writer for MenoTicias, the Spanish-language newsletter published by Mennonite Church USA and Hispanic Ministries of Mennonite Education Agency, shares Alemán’s story in “Learning to value the colors of life.” Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/learning-to-value-the-colors-of-life/ (Lea la versión en español aquí: mennoniteusa.org/learning-to-value-the-colors-of-life-spanish)

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Jane and Jerrell Ross Richer, and their son, Jordan, who are spending the next several months renewing relationships in Ecuador. Due to complications from the pandemic, deaths of loved ones and illness, the Ross Richers had not been able to return to Ecuador for more than two years. Pray that God’s Spirit will guide and bless their ministry.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for the WDC Gifts Discernment Committee as it begins work to prepare nominations of conference leaders for election at WDC annual assembly in 2023.

Announcements for January 8-15, 2023

January 8, 2023 – Epiphany

Based on CDC Guidelines Harvey County has returned to green status indicating low risk for COVID. You are invited to choose whether you wear a mask or social distance. Both are optional.

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
January 8, 2023
Epiphany

Prelude—We three kings of orient are (arr. D. Bish); Nun ist sie erschienen (arr. S. Vincent)—Will Wiebe-Friesen

Christ Candle Lighting

Welcome and Prayer—Esther Kreider Eash

*Hymn—Arise, Your Light Is Come! —VT 273

Anthem—See Whose Glory Fills the Skies (arr. Evelyn Simposon-Currenton) [VT 274]—
Chancel Choir—Riley King, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist

Scripture Reading— Matthew 2:1-12—William Eash

Children’s Conversation—Judy Harder

*Hymn—On This Great Day of Days—VT 260

Sermon—Divine Incognito—Keith Harder

*Hymn—Unexpected and Mysterious—VT 229

Installation—Roger Neufeld Smith, Interim Pastor; Elizabeth Schmidt, Congregational Care Coordinator—VT 965

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Love Came Down at Christmas—VT 255

*Benediction—Keith Harder

Postlude—Praise Ye the Lord of Hosts (Saint-Saëns)—Will Wiebe-Friesen

* You are invited to stand
VT = Voices Together
Audio visual— Ken Lamp
Pastor—Nathan Koontz

Keith Harder brings us the sermon on January 8, 2023–Epiphany Sunday
We welcome Keith Harder, retired pastor and church leader, who will bring us the sermon, on January 8.

This Week at BCMC: January 8-15, 2023
Sunday, Jan. 8 2023
9:30 am    Worship with sermon by Keith Harder
YouTube Link for this Sunday is:  https://youtu.be/SV5Uoaxy1IY
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:30 am Faith Formation—Intergenerational class meets in Fellowship Hall;   High School – Room 24;
Adult Classes: Agape Class meets in the nursery; Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Mosaic (Rm 20); Open Circle (Room 21); Seekers (Rm 28);
Sojourners (Chapel)
4 pm      Service of Remembrance in the Sanctuary—all are welcome
Mon., Jan. 9, 2023
9 am       Women’s Fellowship Executive Board meeting in Fellowship Hall
Tues., Jan. 10, 2023
12 noon Mid-Kansas Investment Club meets in Fellowship Hall
Wed., Jan. 11, 2023
7:30 pm Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the Sanctuary
Thurs, Jan. 5, 2023
6:30 pm   Chancel Bell Rehearsal in Room B7
Sunday, Jan. 15, 2023-Martin Luther King, Jr. Sunday
9:30 am    Worship with sermon by Roger Neufeld Smith; music by
Chancel Bells

In order to recognize and mourn the loss of our loved ones from 2022, Bethel College Mennonite Church is hosting a Service of Remembrance today at 4 pm, in the BCMC sanctuary.
YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/F7Rb3ZGkXjg

BCMC Women’s Fellowship Executive Board meets Monday, January 9 at 9:00 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall.

Judy and John Kliewer—SOOP Assignment
I am pleased to share with you that John and Judy Kliewer will be participating in a SOOP assignment (Service Opportunities with Our Partners) through Mennonite Mission Network. They will be serving in Tucson for the month of January, 2023. This will be John and Judy’s first SOOP assignment. For more information about SOOP, please visit our website, https://serve.mennonitemission.net/serve/Pages/SOOP.aspx. Please join us in praying for John and Judy as they prepare for this assignment and while they are gone. — Arloa Bontrager, North American Regional Co-Administrator, SOOP/Youth Venture/Short-term Opportunities, Mennonite Mission Network

During the service on January 8, we will welcome Elizabeth Schmidt, Congregational Care Coordinator. In addition to being our recent past church moderator, Elizabeth is a Bethel College graduate, has taken coursework for an MA in Theology at Illiff School of Theology, and has completed one unit of Extended Clinical Pastoral Education at Wesley Medical Center. She was also Executive Director of Harvey-Marion County Community Developmental Organization from 2007 to 2019. In this new half-time position, Elizabeth will develop ways we can support each other, coordinate visitation for those in need of care, and work at welcoming and integrating those new to our congregation and at all stages of life. Elizabeth began work on January 1.

January 1 marked the beginning of work for Roger Neufeld Smith, our new half-time Interim Pastor. He comes with 30 years of experience as pastor at Southern Hills Mennonite Church in Topeka and has recently been an interim pastor in Beatrice, Nebraska. We will welcome him officially during the worship service on January 8 with his first sermon planned for January 15, Martin Luther King, Jr Sunday. In addition to preaching about once per month, he will also work with committees and commissions and be involved with visitation in collaboration with Pastor Nathan and the Congregational Care Coordinator.

To reach Elizabeth or Pastor Roger Neufeld Smith you can use their emails:
elizabeth@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org
roger@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org

Thanks for your warm welcome this week as I began my ministry at Bethel College Mennonite Church. I will be returning to Topeka this afternoon, but I will be checking my BCMC email regularly while in
Topeka (roger@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org). I’m also available by voice mail or text when necessary (785-220-1968). I will be back in the BCMC office from Thursday to Sunday this coming week, January 12-15. As I settle into ministry here, I hope to establish a regular pattern of when I will be in Newton. Thanks for your patience and prayers as we work together in the kin-dom of Christ.
— Pastor Roger Neufeld Smith

Menno Ringers—All students 4th grade through 8th grade interested in ringing handbells are welcome! Rehearsals begin Jan. 11, 2023, 6:30 pm in Room B7.

Celebration of Life for Gwen Claassen
There will be a celebration of life for Gwen Claassen on Saturday, January 14, 3 p.m. at the Dyck Arboretum in Hesston, KS

Pastor Nathan Koontz will be away January 14-16, 2023.

BCMC Offering for January 1: General Fund $3,560; Caring Fund $50; Living Stones $50; Kitchen Fund $26.75; Women’s Fellowship $10.

Bethel College Announcements
· Mon., Jan. 16 – Bethel College celebration of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, featuring Marche Fleming-Randle, “Together We Can Be the Dream,” 7 p.m., Memorial Hall
· Sun., Jan. 22 – Bethel College Music Department Honors Recital, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel, featuring freshman, sophomore and junior vocal and instrumental students who performed exceptionally during the fall 2022 semester.
· Save the date: Sat., Jan. 28 – Kauffman Museum annual Kansas Day event, “Kansans Create!,” noon-4 p.m., museum parking lot and grounds. For more information, see the Kauffman Museum Facebook page or kauffmanmuseum.org

New Hope Shelter Announcement
We greatly need to increase our volunteer base as we head into the new year and with the new building only one year away, do as much as we can to provide two volunteers each evening per shift. If you have anyone who is interested in volunteering, please let me know. My volunteer training sessions are normally planned at the end of each month based on availability and need. — Shonda M Suddeth, Shelter/Volunteer Coordinator (316) 283-7711, shonda@newhope-shelter.org Please contact Valetta Seymour if you can consider becoming a New Hope Shelter volunteer. Generally, we have people to provide meals, but evening volunteers are needed. Contact: seymour2314@gmail.com 620-217-7536

Registration is beginning for the 2023 season of Kansas Mennonite Men’s Chorus (KMMC). Those who sang last year will find a registration form in your church mail box. We are working to recover after the pandemic. Numbers were significantly down last year. Please consider joining this year. Please contact Joe Peters for registration forms. We sing that others may live.

Roots of Justice Anti-Racism training is being held January 13-15, 2023 at the Newton Rec Center. If you would like to help support this event by bringing snacks, or helping with snack setup and cleanup, please sign up at the following link:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1EYyJPrblgCitrIp7Rg_8Zwsb0162YPU1NyDrePqdbug/edit?usp=sharing If you want to help but don’t want to use the link, call Margaret Toews at 316-258-8900, or email at mctoews1@gmail.com

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation!

WDC’s Hope Fund assists WDC congregations and commissions in response to the impact of the COVID pandemic, natural disasters and other emergencies resulting in added expenses, stress, and loss of income. Thanks to generous contributions from WDC congregations, members and friends, 28 grants were made from 2020 to 2022, totaling over $62,000. Nearly a third of WDC congregations and the Ministerial Leadership Commission have received grants (some receiving multiple grants) to assist with needs such as rent, utility bills, facility repairs, groceries, medical costs, transportation, children’s daycare, mental health counseling and coaching. After all this good work, the Hope Fund is running low and seeks new contributions in 2023! Donations designated “Hope Fund” may be made online at https://forms.ministryforms.net/embed.aspx?formId=c50eb5b3-a9b7-4431-ba3c-bcb6744f74f1 or sent to Western District Conference at PO Box 306, North Newton, KS 67117. Thank you for sharing in this ministry of mutual encouragement within WDC. For more information and application see https://mennowdc.org/wdc-hope-fund-response-to-the-coronavirus-pandemic/

“Reimagining the Call: Finding and Forming the Leaders God is Calling”

with David Boshart, Heidi Regier Kreider, & Clarence Rempel

January 13, 2023 – 12-1:30p.m. at
Water’s Edge Restaurant, 701 S. Main St., Hesston

Is your congregation being proactive about calling people to leadership in the church? How can future leaders for your congregation and the broader church be identified and prepared?

Pastors, congregational leaders, and interested laypersons are invited to a luncheon on Friday, January 13 from noon to 1:30 pm at Water’s Edge Restaurant, 701 S. Main Street, Hesston. Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary president David Boshart will be offering perspectives on calling and nurturing leaders from within congregations, followed by a conversation with Heidi Regier Kreider (conference minister for Western District Conference) and Clarence Rempel (regional ministry coach for South Central Conference).

Lunch will be served, compliments of AMBS; RSVP by Friday, January 6 using the following link.

RSVP Here or 574.296.6210

Are you looking for a resolution for the new year? Why not add “Volunteer with Mennonite Central Committee’s SWAP” to your list?
Volunteering with SWAP gives you the opportunity to share the love of Christ in tangible ways as you work with homeowners to make their homes safe, warm and dry. Located in the beautiful Appalachian Mountains of Kentucky and West Virginia, SWAP volunteers grow and learn as they serve and experience Appalachian culture. For more information and to register, visit mcc.org/swap

For Mennonite Central Committee In Touch press here
For Mennonite World Conference press here
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp News

See The RMMC News & Stories From December

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

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Mennonite Church USA will host its annual Hope for the Future conference Feb. 3-5 in Atlanta. The conference welcomes MC USA-affiliated BIPOC leaders and young adults for a time of networking and mutual edification. Register by Jan. 18. Learn more here: mennoniteusa.org/hope-for-the-future

Area conference ministers from Mennonite Church USA and Mennonite Church Canada gathered in San Francisco in early December for renewal, training and collaborative work around a new misconduct accountability and prevention guide. mennoniteusa.org/proposed-misconduct-policies

Menno Snapshots
The topic of money is sensitive and complex. For this reason, church leaders often struggle with how to approach the topic within the church. Michael Danner, the associate executive director for Church Vitality in Mennonite Church USA, offers some insights into how to embrace regularly incorporating financial messages in the church, in his recent article in Leader magazine,” Christians and our money.” mennoniteusa.org/christians-and-our-money

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network praises God for the 40 SOOP participants who are serving this month in places like Kykotsmovi, Phoenix, and Tucson, Arizona; Gotha, Florida; Americus, Georgia; Meridian, Mississippi; Mt. Pleasant, Pennsylvania; and San Antonio, Texas. Pray that they will be instruments of God’s justice, peace and love.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for generous contributions to WDC as the fiscal year ends in January, to support conference ministries of equipping ministers, resourcing congregations, and networking church planting partnerships.

December 25, 2022 — January 1, 2023

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Based on CDC Guidelines Harvey County is back to yellow status indicating medium risk for COVID. You are invited to choose whether you wear a mask or social distance. Both are optional.

December 24, 2022 – Christmas Eve Services

The early Christmas Eve service will begin at 4:30 pm in the Sanctuary.
Live Stream Link is: https://youtu.be/rotDF2spCKA

The Lessons and Carols Candlelighting service will begin at 11 pm in the Sanctuary. Live Stream Link is: https://youtu.be/tiya-KNIS7M

December 25, 2022 – Worship Service for Christmas morning will beging at 10 am. You are invited to bring snacks or Christmas goodies to share in a fellowship time after the service. Coffee/water/tea will also be available.

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
Christmas Day December 25, 2022
Sing for joy: Your God reigns

Prelude— Mark Kreider

Advent Candle Lighting—Rebecca, Aaron, and Theo Tschetter

*Hymn—Hark! the Herald Angels Sing—VT 247

Welcome—Matt Schloneger

Call to Worship

Leader: Sing and shout; how great is our God! The heavens praise your name; the earth proclaims your glory!

People: How beautiful are the feet on the mountain of those who bring good news.

Leader: Great is your peace, and great are your promises.

People: Your good news brings comfort to my soul. In my heart a new song cries out.

Leader: Sing hallelujah!

All: Our God reigns!

*Hymn—Oh, How Joyfully—VT 254

Hymn—Infant Holy, Infant Lowly—VT 243

Children’s Conversation—Esther Koontz

*Hymn— O Come, All Ye Faithful—VT 241

Piano Solo—Mark Kreider

Scripture Readings—Isaiah 52:7-10; John 1:1-14—Adah Hodge, Barb Koontz

Meditation—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—In the Beginning—VT 270

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Angels We Have Heard on High—VT 249

*Benediction—Nathan Koontz

Postlude—Verlene Garber

* You are invited to stand

VT = Voices Together
Audio visual—Ben Lichti
Pastor—Nathan Koontz

The worship services on Jan. 1, 2023 will begin at 10 a.m. There will be no Sunday school. The congregation is encouraged to bring snacks/Christmas goodies to share and enjoy after the service.
—Hospitality Commission

The Church office will be closed between Christmas and New Year’s day this year. The Church office and building will be closed on January 2, 2023.
New’s Year Reflection in Worship
We welcome Doug Penner to share his reflections on Micah 6:8 next Sunday on New Year’s day! As we prepare for a new year, let us be thinking about ways that we seek to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.

As we are in the holiday season that brings joy with the promise of new life and love birthed into our world, there is also grief as we miss those who have passed from this world in 2022. In order to recognize and mourn the loss of our loved ones from 2022, Bethel College Mennonite Church is hosting a Service of Remembrance on January 8, 2023 at 4 pm, in the BCMC sanctuary.

Thank you to all who purchased poinsettias and made our church more festive for the Christmas season. Thanks also to the many people who have contributed to the Advent and Christmas visuals at BCMC this year! A special thanks goes to Susie and Bill Swartley for the sanctuary and entryway decorations; to Carol Peters for the outside Advent banners; to Kathy Stucky for the sanctuary poinsettias; to Matt Koontz and Josh Brubacher for hanging the Sanctuary banners each week; to Brenda Turner for the Gathering Space window decorations; and Glen Ediger for the Gathering Space nativity scene. The nativity set in this scene was donated by Rex and Connie Esau. Thank you so much for your contributions to enrich our holiday season!

Thank you to Verlene Garber who is retiring as accompanist to the Chancel Choir, a position she has filled admirably since 2014!

Welcome to Will Wiebe-Friesen who begins in January as accompanist to the Chancel Choir.

Menno Ringers—All students 4th grade through 8th grade interested in ringing handbells are welcome! Rehearsals begin Jan. 11, 2023, 6:30 pm in Room B7.

The Finance Committee thanks you for your contributions to BCMC and its ministries throughout 2022. Contributions received in today’s offering and before December 31 will also be counted for 2022 giving.

Announcements From the Board:

Welcome to Elizabeth Schmidt, Congregational Care Coordinator!
The BCMC Board is excited to welcome Elizabeth Schmidt as our Congregational Care Coordinator! In addition to being our recent past church moderator, Elizabeth is a Bethel College graduate, has taken coursework for an MA in Theology at Illiff School of Theology, and has completed one unit of Extended Clinical Pastoral Education at Wesley Medical Center. She was also Executive Director of Harvey-Marion County Community Developmental Organization from 2007 to 2019. In this new half-time position, Elizabeth will develop ways we can support each other, coordinate visitation for those in need of care, and work at welcoming and integrating those new to our congregation and at all stages of life. Elizabeth will begin work on January 1.

Preparations Underway for Roger Neufeld Smith, our Interim Pastor
January 1 will mark the beginning of work for Roger Neufeld Smith, our new half-time Interim Pastor. He comes with 30 years of experience as pastor at Southern Hills Mennonite Church in Topeka and has recently been an interim pastor in Beatrice, Nebraska. We will welcome him officially during the worship service on January 8 with his first sermon planned for January 15. In addition to preaching about once per month, he will also work with committees and commissions and be involved with visitation in collaboration with Pastor Nathan and the Congregational Care Coordinator. We are so pleased to begin our work with him!

Credence Report Task Group
The BCMC Board is constituting a small task group to oversee decisions and implementation of recommendations from the Credence and Company consultants. Their work will begin after the first of the year. If you would like to be involved with this group or a specific part of the recommendations, please feel free to contact Ada Schmidt-Tieszen, Moderator, or Brad Kohlman, Moderator-Elect. Your input is always welcome.

The Library Theme for the month of December is Advent and or Christmas.
Adult books are displayed behind the Library desk and Everybody/Junior books are displayed on the cart in the Children’s Library. Speaking of the cart, all the puzzles are currently located on the west wall of the library. So, come on in and check them out. And, we’ve received a large donation of books recently. Look for new books added to our collection in the next couple of weeks and displayed on the west wall. Happy Holiday Reading!

I’ve been asked by The Etcetera Shop to ask for some extra volunteers for the next few weeks. Several volunteers have not returned to the shop, one staff member has left and two are on emergency leave. If you could help out even for a few hours in the next few weeks, it would be very much appreciated. If you have not volunteered before, we could arrange orientation. If you have questions, call Elaine Schurr, 402-980-1809

Raylene Hinz-Penner’s book East of Liberal released December 1.
“Through elements of memoir, history, and philosophy of land use, a lover of her Mennonite farm childhood looks critically at farming’s impact on the land, comparing settler values of land ownership to those of first people who see themselves as owned by the sacred homeland.” East of Liberal is published by Cascadia Publishing House. It is available through Amazon and in the Kauffman
Museum store.

College scholarships available: Everence offers college scholarships for Everence members and their children. Eligible students receive scholarships up to $3,000 for the 2023-2024 academic year. Applications are accepted Jan. 1 through Feb. 28.Visit everence.com/scholarships for eligibility guidelines and application. Information is also available by contacting Jim Robb.

Everence Opportunities: In this season of joy, find ways to give back and support your favorite charity. Everence makes it easy. My Neighbor Card: Everence donates 1.50% of every purchase you make to the charity of your choice. Donor Advised Funds allows you to grow funds intended for charitable giving at any time. Please consider a charitable gift this holiday season.

Roots of Justice Anti-Racism training is being held January 13-15, 2023 at the Newton Rec Center. If you would like to help support this event by bringing snacks, or helping with snack setup and cleanup, please sign up at the following link:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1EYyJPrblgCitrIp7Rg_8Zwsb0162YPU1NyDrePqdbug/edit?usp=sharing
If you want to help but don’t want to use the link, call Margaret Toews at 316-258-8900, or email at mctoews1@gmail.com

The Bethel College campus is closed from Dec. 22-Jan. 2 (reopening with regular business hours Tuesday, Jan. 3). Reverie Coffee Shop will be open during most of that time — see “Reverie Roasters at Mojo’s” Facebook page for hours and any updates. Advancement Office staff welcome visitors on Friday, Dec. 30, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Leisy House (corner of 23rd St. and Goerz Ave. in North Newton).

Now at Kauffman Museum on the Bethel College campus: “Reeds and Wool: Patterned Screens of Central Asia,” revived from 20 years ago in memory of the late John Sommer, who collected the screens, made by nomadic Kyrgyz women, and organized the original exhibit. Regular KauffmanMuseum hours are Tues.-Fri., 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Sat.-Sun., 1:30-4:30 p.m. The museum is closed Mondays and major holidays, so it will be closed today (Christmas Day) as well as New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. There is a small admission charge for non-members. The museum store is open during exhibit hours with no charge to visit. See kauffmanmuseum.org or the Kauffman Museum Facebook page.

Mennonite Central Committee Announcements

Project Coordinator-Burkina Faso / Voir la version française ci-dessous MCC is seeking a Project Coordinator responsible for mentoring and building capacity of local partners towards greater independence and sustainability and, alongside the MCC Burkina Faso Country Representatives, will assist in all planning, monitoring, and evaluating activities for various projects related to conservation agriculture, peace building, education, health, and emergency assistance. If you or someone you know might be interested, read more and apply by December 31, 2022 at mcc.org/burkina.

Seed Guatemala-El Salvador Coordinator (Español abajo) MCC is seeking a Seed Coordinator who will coordinate the second SEED Cohort for Guatemala and El Salvador. This position involves the planning, organization and implementation of a service, reflection and peacebuilding program with an intercultural team of young adults in the complex and enriching context of Guatemala and El Salvador. This position will be based in Guatemala and will be supervised by the MCC Representatives for Guatemala and El Salvador. If you or someone you know might be interested, read more and apply by December 31, 2022 mcc.org/guatemala.

Greetings!

I’m writing with the news that the winter issue of Intersections: MCC Theory and Practice Quarterly is available now on-line here and here. Compiled by Wade Snowdon, the issue features articles about how MCC develops young adult leaders.

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

Warm regards,
Alain Epp Weaver

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

Mennonite Church USA (MC USA) has named John Stoner and Clara Weybright as this year’s #BringThePeace awardees. Stoner received the Legacy Peacemaker award, and Weybright received the Young Peacemaker award. The awards are sponsored by MC USA’s Church Peace Tax Fund. Read more about the awardees here: mennoniteusa.org/news/2022-bringthepeace-award

Save the date! Hope for the Future, an annual gathering of Black, Indigenous and people of color leaders from across Mennonite Church USA, will be held February 3-5, 2023, in Atlanta, Georgia. Learn more here: mennoniteusa.org/hopeforthefuture

#BeTransformed

Being transformed by moving across state lines while trusting in God’s plan for your life can cause one to realize that they are in fact not fully in control. Read more about Rachel Ringenberg Miller’s journey to serving as denominational minister for ministerial leadership for Mennonite Church USA: mennoniteusa.org/relinquishing-control

Stay in the know about what’s happening in Mennonite Church USA (MC USA) by subscribing to PeaceMail, MC USA’s official news source. Subscribe to the weekly newsletter here: mennoniteusa.org/peacemail

For Mennonite Creation Care Network press here

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

For Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level press here

For Mennonite Mission Network News from Around the World press here

Merry Christmas from Mennonite Church USA press here

Merry Christmas from Mennonite Mission Network press here

Merry Christmas from Mennonite Central Committee Central States press here

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation!

For Mennonite World Conference press here

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network offers a blessing for each member of your congregation on this Christmas Day. May we encourage one another to follow Jesus’ example and become incarnations of God’s love and peace in our communities, today and in the coming year.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: On this Christmas Day, give thanks for the gift of Christ’s presence made tangible through the life and witness of WDC congregations.