Category Archives: Announcements

Announcements for July 24-31, 2022

Based on CDC Guidelines Harvey County is in red status indicating high risk for COVID. To care for each other we require that we wear masks at BCMC while in the presence of others in the church building and in worship. While the county is in red status we will not have coffee fellowship time. This is reviewed weekly and will be adjusted accordingly; check your emails from BCMC.

The Memorial Service for Jim Gaeddert is Saturday, July 23, 3 pm, at BCMC —you are invited to attend in person or by live-stream. You can go to the BCMC website for the live stream or click on this link: https://youtu.be/Vgce5HDAVuw

This Week at BCMC: July 24—31, 2022
Sunday, July 24—Live stream (YouTube) link for this Sunday is:
https://youtu.be/huGKrwojS3s
10:30 am    Faith Formation—Visitors welcome!
Adult Classes (If meeting): Agape Class (Rm B8) 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)
Monday, July 25
10 am         Library Committee meeting in the library
Sunday, July 31
9:30 am      Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz
10:15 am    Fellowship Time with coffee and water served in the
Gathering Place
10:30 am    Faith Formation—Visitors welcome!

BCMC July 17 Offering: General Fund $9,212; Plant Fund $120; Living Stones $1,088.33; Kitchen Fund (Coffee) $14.

BCMC Budget Update: For June 2022, income was $35,070 and expenses were $39,637. For the year-to-date, income is $211,450 and expenses are $254,017. – The Finance Committee

Adam, Jill, Al, Nadine, Jake, and Gabby would like to invite the BCMC congregation to the Robb house (193 20th Ave., Moundridge – two miles west of the blinking light, then turn south) on Sunday, July 24 at 6 PM for a wiener roast and social time! We’ll provide the hotdogs and fixins, along with chips and beverages, and hope that you can join us in fellowship. If you come, and would like to bring a side or dessert, please feel free to – but nothing is required! We will also have a few chairs, but would ask that if you have your own, that you bring those. And, if you’ll be able to join us, please let us know (email Adam and Jill at adamandjillrobb@gmail.com or catch us in church) by Thursday, July 21 so that we can plan accordingly to make sure there are enough supplies! We look forward to hopefully seeing you for some fellowship in the Moundridge countryside! The weather will be hot on Sunday, so both indoor and outdoor seating spaces will be available for guests!

The Abuse Prevention and Response Committee will take the months of July and part of August to read the book, #Church Too. On Sunday August 21 will be spent sharing reactions to the book, and on August 28 guiding questions will be used to help us discuss how we as a congregation can use the information from the book to help us create a healthy culture around sexuality at BCMC that supports survivors, our children/youth and ourselves. The book can be purchased through Amazon, requested through Faith and Life bookstore, or your favorite local independent bookstore of your choice. If demand is high we will pivot and figure out a way to have copies available in the church office for purchase. – Jill Robb, APRC chair

Update from the Church Board:
BCMC is in a time of transition, an “in-between” time of waiting and working in the boundary between what was and what will be. These times are rich with possibility for new understanding of our past and current status and for re-envisioning and planning our future. The following are updates on Church Board work during these transitional times:

Credence and Company Consultants:
BCMC has contracted with Credence to help us assess congregational strengths and challenges and review our current leadership structures as we consider the future with new pastors. A congregational survey has been completed. The consultants are currently in the process of interviewing 35 individual members of the congregation, gathering additional information from outside sources, and analyzing survey results. A preliminary report for congregational feedback will be shared with the congregation on a Sunday morning sometime in September or October. The final report will be completed before Advent. The reference group of David Linscheid, Lois Preheim, Megan Kohlman, Ada Schmidt-Tieszen, and Todd Schlosser has been offering feedback to the consultants. Thank you for taking on this important work!

The letter from the BCMC Church Board expressing affirmation and encouragement to denominational leadership at Mennonite Church USA regarding the recent approval of the Resolution for Repentance and Transformation at the Special Delegate Assembly at the end of May will be underneath the balcony at the back of the church on Sunday, July 24. Denomination leadership is hearing from various perspectives in the wake of this resolution. We want them to know that we are filled with hope and gratitude for our denomination moving forward toward healing and repair, and toward equity and justice, despite the hard work ahead.
If you are interested in signing this letter come to the back of the sanctuary on Sunday. Thanks from the Inclusion Task Group,
Megan Kohlman, Karen Ediger, Karen Penner, John Kliewer, & Nathan Koontz

New Task Group:
The Church Board has approved the formation of a task group to lead the church in finding ways for our congregation to move beyond land acknowledgement to tangible actions seeking justice for the harms which Indigenous peoples have suffered and continue to suffer today. We will discuss joining the Repair Network of Mennonite congregations for education, solidarity and reparative action alongside Indigenous peoples. The first action of the BCMC task group will be to help support MCC’s “Loss of Turtle Island” experience for members of our congregation. If you would like to join the task group, contact Nathan Koontz or Ada Schmidt-Tieszen. Raylene Hinz-Penner will convene the task group.

Bethel College Connections:
We continue our outreach to Bethel College, our sister institution. The Church Board has chosen to again invite new students to attend our service on August 14 as part of their orientation. We will welcome 100 or more students from many parts of the country and world. Masks will be required for all on that day. Look for announcements about a possible coffee reception for students after the service. Fall Fest Sunday will again be held in our church building on October 9

Welcome to Riley King who will begin this fall as our Chancel Choir Director! Singers from high school age on up are invited to join the choir when rehearsals begin this fall.

Faith Formation Staff Positions and Survey

Two quarter time staff positions are open to help ease the load of Faith Formation in the wake of Pastor Renee’s departure. The Youth Coordinator is primarily responsible for the high school youth group. The Faith Formation Coordinator is responsible for coordinating children and youth Sunday School and Wednesday evening programming for children up to high school age. These positions will go through the end of the school year. These positions could be combined into one half time position for the right candidate. If you or someone you know might be interested, please contact Kathy Stucky at kathystucky57@yahoo.com. The full job descriptions are attached at the bottom of this email.

For Faith Formation Coordinator Description click here

For Youth Coordinator Description click here

Faith Formation would like for everyone to fill out a short survey regarding interest in attending an intergenerational Sunday School class this coming school year with our children and youth. We are looking for adults who are interested in joining the class for one month out of the year. Please take a look at the survey and see if any of the areas of opportunity to help will interest you.

https://forms.gle/v5q4uWeY4XE8w6vX7

Assistant Treasurer Transitions:
Over the last months there have been several transitions in the volunteer role of assistant treasurer, an important position appointed by the Board. It is with deep gratitude that we recognize and thank Nancy Hilty and Lois Goertzen for their competence, dedication, and long service in this role. The Church Board was pleased to approve Mary Ann Boschman and Bonnie Epp as our new assistant treasurers and recognize and thank Richard Friesen for his ongoing work as a volunteer assistant treasurer who manages software that tracks congregational giving, produces quarterly contribution reports, helps analyze giving patterns, and trains new assistant treasurers. Thanks to all these invaluable volunteers!

Reopening Task Group—Release and Thanks! The church board voted to release the Reopening Task Group from their duties. We owe a huge thank you to the group for steering our congregation through the last several years with consistency and wisdom! We recognize that Covid is not gone, but at this time Covid management will become decentralized with commissions and committees managing Covid precautions and decisions for events and activities in their charge. Individuals are expected to take whatever precautions each deems appropriate. The church will continue to livestream services for those who choose to view services from home. Masks will be available for in-person worship and events.

The Library theme for June and July is Caldecott and John Newbery Award Winners. We have many of these award winning books that would be of interest to both adults and children. We are also continuing to accept and sell puzzles. Not only are they on the cart, but also below the new book section on the west wall. Just leave a suggested donation of $5 in the envelope and enjoy. We have a long list of books that we would like to add to our collection and this is a great way to support our efforts.
The Library Committee has processed almost 20 new books, 10 of them purchased and donated by The Abuse Prevention and Response Committee. The APRC books can be found on the Pastor’s Corner shelf which is now located on the west wall with the other recent purchases. Another new purchase is “The Land Is Not Empty” by Sarah Augustine which was recommended by the Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery group. Please stop by and see what we have to offer and continue to browse and donate from our puzzle collection.—The
Library Committee

The 2022 issue of Mennonite Life, Bethel College’s annual online journal, is now live at ml.bethelks.edu, with articles and reviews by Daniel Shank Cruz, Chris Dick, June Mears Driedger, Susan Kennel Harrison, Raylene Hinz-Penner, Gordon Houser, Reinhild K. Janzen, Gayle Gerber Koontz, Steve Nolt, Rachel Pannabecker, Karen Reimer, Ben Woodward-Breckbill and Melanie Zuercher.

Life Enrichment returns to Bethel College with the start of the fall 2022 semester – but It will be on a different day. Life Enrichment resumes Thursday, Aug. 25, and will be on Thursdays thereafter. Place and time remain the same: Krehbiel Auditorium, 9:30 am. See https://www.bethelks.edu/academics/convocation-lectures/life-enrichment for more information.

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

Colorado peaches are back! Place your order for fresh Colorado peaches, $27 for 10 lb. box and $38 for 18 lb. box by calling Mennonite Central Committee at 316-283-2720 or emailing patsydirksen@mcc.org. Peaches must be ordered and paid for by July 25. The peaches are offered as a fundraiser for the Colorado MCC Relief Sale, please make payment by check to Beth-El Mennonite Church with “peaches” in the memo line. Generous volunteers Jerry and Leann Toews will bring the peaches from Colorado to MCC in North Newton for you to pick-up around August 22.

WDC Final Thursday Book Discussion July 28: When a near-fatal illness led his doctors to prescribe narcotics, Timothy McMahan King ended up as millions of others have: addicted. Join us in reading and discussing King’s book Addiction Nation which “nudges us toward healing from the ravages of addiction and draws us toward a spirituality studied enough to sate our deepest longings.” Discussion: July 28, @ 7:00pm via Zoom. Register: email the library at crlib@mennowdc.org

Fall Book Study on Healing Haunted Histories Sept. 8-Dec. 1, 2022

Elaine Enns, co-author of Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler Discipleship of Decolonization, will be leading an online, intensive book study this fall for the Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery Coalition. Two-hour sessions will be every other Thursday, 6-8 pm Central Time, on Sept 8 and 22, Oct 6 and 20, Nov 3 and 17, and Dec 1. This book encourages personal and collective work toward decolonization. It asks those of us who are settlers, immigrants and displaced peoples to do our own pre-work of integrating our ancestral stories, so we can see more clearly and show up in solidarity with Indigenous peoples. There is a suggested donation of $150-$250 for the online book study. Scholarships are available. Register here by August 1.

Note to Western District Conference members: You are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity and register for the Healing Haunted Histories book study! If you do so, please inform the WDC office at wdc@mennowdc.org or 316-283-6300. This will allow us to facilitate networking between WDC participants, and plan for further engagement with Elaine Enns within the WDC context, as follow-up to the book study. If you seek some financial support to help meet expenses for the book study, please inform WDC. Requests for assistance will be considered by the WDC Resource Commission at their next meeting in September.

Bluestem U, a lifelong learning program for individuals age 55 and better, is enrolling now for its first semester that will begin in September. The fall 2022 semester will feature three courses hosted by Hesston College and Schowalter Villa – “Prairie Landscaping 101” taught by Brad Guhr, “Happy Habits from Positive Psychology” taught by Kevin Wilder, and “Buggies, Bonnets and Boundaries: A Study of Amish Faith, Life and Culture” taught by John Sharp. Each course is $50. For more information and registration, go to bluestemu.org or call 316-836-4846. Bluestem U is a partnership between Bluestem Communities, Bethel College and Hesston College.

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

Camp Sing on Saturday, August 6, at 2:30pm at Hope Mennonite Church in Wichita! Camp Mennoscah will be celebrating a wonderful summer through song! Everyone is invited to come and sing camp songs (both “traditional” ones from across the years and newer Praise & Worship ones). The final details are yet to be determined, but there will be soda pop–generic or otherwise! Put it on your calendar and come be part of the fun!

Other events and happenings:

Work & Play Day on August 20! Camp Mennoscah has projects to complete and plenty to do after a busy, fun summer. You are invited to be part of this camping ministry through fellowship and service! Projects for all ages and weather are available. Let us know you’re coming so we can be prepared for you! Bring your lunch and a water bottle. The day will start at 8:30 at the maintenance shed. End your day with a leisurely kayak ride or stroll to the sandbar. Contact Olivia at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org to sign up. Want to volunteer either before or after August 20? Give us a call!
Pardon the Mess! Camp Mennoscah is cleaning out and organizing maintenance sheds and other buildings. Items in the front “yard” will slowly find new homes. Thank you for your understanding!
Groups are invited to set their own precautions based on the comfort level of their group. Please note the RV electrical hookups are not available due to safety concerns.
Camp staff work hours vary depending on scheduled events for the week. The office assistant also works part-time from home. (Whenever a group is at camp, a staff person will be on duty.) Thank you for understanding! We will be in touch as soon as possible.

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond click here

For Mennonite Mission Network webinar click here
This webinar series is with Minister Al Motley Jr., aka rapper Iz-Real, July 27-29 – a 3 day event from 12 to 1 pm ET. He will share about his spiritual journey, offer inspiration, and talk about how to get involved, explore leadership development, and engage in Mission Network service opportunities.

For Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level click
here

Mennonite Mission Network Announcements
This week, please pray for Western District Conference congregations as they gather for their annual delegate assembly on July 29-31.

Learn, Pray, Join: Welcoming EveryBODY
What if we celebrated our wounded bodies — scars, wrinkles, prosthetics and all? Erica Lea-Simka questions if we would look at Jesus, and ourselves, differently if we celebrated his wounds, abilities and disabilities. Her blog is part of Mennonite Church USA’s “Learn, Pray, Join: Welcoming EveryBODY” initiative. Read it here: mennoniteusa.org/bending-stretching

Menno Snapshots
The effects of the Doctrine of Discovery (DoD) are far-reaching. Because of the DoD, Indigenous people’s lands have been stolen, polluted and destroyed for centuries. In her blog, “The land is not empty,” author Sarah Augustine calls on all of us in Mennonite Church USA to join her in fighting against the DoD. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/not-empty

Delegate Assembly
John L. Rush has a passion for justice and has spent most of his life working in prison ministry. Read why the “For Justice in the Criminal Legal System” resolution, which has been adopted for denominational study, is so important to him in his blog, “One response to the MC USA ‘For Justice’ Resolution.” mennoniteusa.org/response-justice-resolution

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Alisha and Josh Garber, serving with Mennonite Mission Network, are currently based in Phoenix, Arizona, where they are engaged in North American ministry. Pray for a time of spiritual and physical renewal, as the Garbers visit family, friends and supporting congregations. Pray for them, also, as they discern what God is calling them to next.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for the WDC Annual Assembly next weekend at Camp Copass near Denton, TX, that in this gathering God will encourage and strengthen WDC congregations through the assembly theme, “United in Purpose, Together in Love.”

Announcements for July 17-24, 2022

This Week at BCMC: July 17—24, 2022
Sunday, July 17—Live stream (YouTube) link for this Sunday is:
https://youtu.be/Glblg_XNIm8

10:15 am    Fellowship Time with coffee and water served in the
Gathering Place
10:30 am    Faith Formation—Visitors welcome!
Adult Classes (If meeting): Agape Class (Rm B8) 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)
Monday, July 18—Pastor Nathan Koontz will be on vacation through
July 24
Saturday, July 23
3 pm            Memorial Service for Jim Gaeddert —you are invited to attend in person or by live-stream
Sunday, July 24
9:30 am      Worship with sermon by Todd Schlosser
10:15 am    Fellowship Time with coffee and water served in the
Gathering Place
10:30 am    Faith Formation—Visitors welcome!

BCMC July 10 Offering: General Fund $5,262.94; Library Reserve Fund $20; Living Stones $655; Kitchen Fund $13; Women’s Fellowship $50; Screen Project $50; Orletta Wiebe Memorial $405.

The letter from the BCMC Church Board expressing affirmation and encouragement to denominational leadership at Mennonite Church USA regarding the recent approval of the Resolution for Repentance and Transformation at the Special Delegate Assembly at the end of May will be underneath the balcony at the back of the church on Sunday, July 17. Denomination leadership is hearing from various perspectives in the wake of this resolution. We want them to know that we are filled with hope and gratitude for our denomination moving forward toward healing and repair, and toward equity and justice, despite the hard work ahead.
If you are interested in signing this letter come to the back of the sanctuary on Sunday. Thanks from the Inclusion Task Group,
Megan Kohlman, Karen Ediger, Karen Penner, John Kliewer, & Nathan Koontz

Faith Formation Staff Positions

For Faith Formation Coordinator Description click here

For Youth Coordinator Description click here

A GET-TOGETHER FOR JULY 24

Adam, Jill, Al, Nadine, Jake, and Gabby would like to invite the BCMC congregation to the Robb house (193 20th Ave., Moundridge – two miles west of the blinking light, then turn south) on Sunday, July 24 at 6 PM for a wiener roast and social time! We’ll provide the hotdogs and fixins, along with chips and beverages, and hope that you can join us in fellowship. If you come, and would like to bring a side or dessert, please feel free to – but nothing is required! We will also have a few chairs, but would ask that if you have your own, that you bring those. And, if you’ll be able to join us, please let us know (email Adam and Jill at adamandjillrobb@gmail.com or catch us in church) by Thursday, July 21 so that we can plan accordingly to make sure there are enough supplies! We look forward to hopefully seeing you for some fellowship in the Moundridge countryside!

FOR THE MAY-JUNE ISSUE OF THE “KALEIDOSCOPE” PRESS HERE

There are printed copies of the newsletter in the Gathering Place.

If there is an article you would like to suggest (or write) for the BCMC “Kaleidoscope” please contact the BCMC office.

Faith Formation would like for everyone to fill out a short survey regarding interest in attending an intergenerational Sunday School class this coming school year with our children and youth. We are looking for adults who are interested in joining the class for one month out of the year. Please take a look at the survey and see if any of the areas of opportunity to help will interest you.

https://forms.gle/v5q4uWeY4XE8w6vX7

Below is a letter that the BCMC Church Board has signed expressing affirmation and encouragement to denominational leadership at Mennonite Church USA regarding the recent approval of the Resolution for Repentance and Transformation at the Special Delegate Assembly at the end of May. Denomination leadership is hearing from various perspectives in the wake of this resolution. We want them to know that we are filled with hope and gratitude for our denomination moving forward toward healing and repair, and toward equity and justice, despite the hard work ahead.

If you are interested in signing this letter, a hard copy will be available to sign on Sunday morning, July 17 in the back of the sanctuary. If you are unable to attend and sign in-person on July 17, reply to this email expressing your interest to sign and we will include your name on the letter.

Thanks from the Inclusion Task Group,

Megan Kohlman, Karen Ediger, Karen Penner, John Kliewer, & Nathan Koontz

Greetings from Bethel College Mennonite Church in North Newton, KS.

As a congregation, we would like to express our support for you, the leadership of Mennonite Church USA. As leaders in the denomination, you are the first to hear people’s frustration, anger, and sorrow. As human beings, we are typically quick to share our disappointment but slow to share our support.

BCMC would like to share with you our joy. We celebrate the passage of the Resolution for Repentance and Transformation and the work that will be done by MCUSA moving forward. As a congregation, we are actively seeking ways to be more inclusive, welcoming, and active in supporting the LGBTQ+ community. We are excited to join in that work with the greater Mennonite church.

We acknowledge that there is challenging work to be done, particularly in the call of the Resolution for Repentance and Transformation. We will pray for you and walk with you as you discern and take the next steps in that work. Our hope is that as we move into our future as a denomination, we seek to truly follow Jesus in extending love and welcome without boundaries.

Please know that there are many individuals and congregations in the Mennonite Church that are celebrating every step we take toward inclusion. We are thankful for your willingness to facilitate difficult conversations and to allow delegates to take difficult votes.

Thank you for saying yes to the call of serving MCUSA and for choosing to love this church, even in the hard times.

In Christ,
Church Board of Bethel College Mennonite Church

Kidron Bethel Village is looking for a volunteer to go on walks with a Kidron Bethel Village resident (wheelchair) during the late afternoon or evenings once or twice a week. If you are able to help, contact Shelley Lujano at 316-836-4821 or shelleyl@bluestemks.org.

New Hope Shelter be hosting a Volunteer Training Session on Thursday, July 21 at 7 pm. New Hope’s volunteer shift hours are 5 pm to 11 pm daily. Anyone who signs up to be a volunteer must be trained by a staff member beforehand. Even if you have volunteered before COVID, you may want to come back in for a refresher course.
If anyone who is interested in signing up for volunteer training, please contact Valetta Seymour no later than Tuesday, July 19. seymour2314@gmail.com, 620-217-7536.

Western District Conference Assembly, July 29-31
Looking for a dream vacation this summer while serving the church? Camp Copass near Denton, Texas, might be just the ticket for you. It’s the site for the annual WDC Assembly. You’ll find registration information at https://mennowdc.org/2022-wdc-annual-assembly/. If attending the assembly in person, the cost for housing and meals is $168 (there is no registration fee). Transportation is available via vans from North Newton for $25 per person. There is also a virtual option for attending the assembly, although that does involve a $50 registration fee. The Gifts Discernment Committee will provide at least $150 for any delegates attending in person; $50 dollars for those participating virtually. BCMC qualifies for 16 delegates. Registration deadline is July 15. Contact the church office or a member of the Gifts Discernment Committee if you plan to attend.
GDC members: Dale Schrag, Jerry Buller, Elaine Prouty, Jeanette Stucky

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

Colorado peaches are back! Place your order for fresh Colorado peaches, just $27 for 10 lb. box and $38 for 18 lb. box by calling Mennonite Central Committee at 316-283-2720 or emailing patsydirksen@mcc.org. Peaches must be ordered and paid for by July 25. The peaches are offered as a fundraiser for the Colorado MCC Relief Sale, please make payment by check to Beth-El Mennonite Church with “peaches” in the memo line. Generous volunteers Jerry and Leann Toews will bring the peaches from Colorado to MCC in North Newton for you to pick-up around August 22.

For Mennonite World Conference press here
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Mennonite Central Committee Announcement
July 26 MCC webinar: Creative housing solutions for refugees and asylum seekers – When refugees and asylum seekers arrive in the United States, the first thing they need is a safe place to call home. Unfortunately, the ongoing affordable housing crisis has greatly impacted families’ ability to lay down roots. Join MCC on Tuesday, July 26 at 1:00 p.m. CDT/12:00 p.m. MDT to learn about different ways the faith community has partnered with refugees, asylum seekers and organizations that serve them to offer creative housing solutions. Learn more and register at https://mcc.org/webinar-housing-solutions.

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

Mennonite Church USA (MC USA) is seeking applicants for its Justice Fund grants. The Justice Fund supports MC USA congregations that are working to combat poverty, dismantle racism, address immigration reform or reimagine policing. For more information: mennoniteusa.org/seek-applicants-justice-fund

#BeTransformed
Gun violence continues to plague our country. Read how Mike Martin has taken steps to combat gun violence through RAWtools, Inc., a ministry partner of Mennonite Church USA, in his blog, “Guns to garden tools.” mennoniteusa.org/guns-to-garden-tools

Menno Snapshots
Steve Chun reflects on how Kkaenip, or perilla, a plant used in traditional Korean cuisine, helps him and other Korean Americans maintain a sense of identity, despite living away from their ancestral land. Read his Menno Snapshots blog, “Flavors of resilience,” here: mennoniteusa.org/flavors-of-resilience

Menno Snapshots
Lynda Hollinger-Janzen of Mennonite Mission Network rides her bicycle to work every day. It provides her with an opportunity for exercise, allows her to reduce her impact on the environment and it creates space for her to spend time with God. Read more about the benefits of biking in her Menno Snapshots blog, “I bike for world peace, personal shalom — and because I love biking.” mennoniteusa.org/i-bike-for

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network’s Youth Venture program is leading a nine-day immigration and borderlands learning tour in Tucson, Arizona. Pray for the 15 participants as they come face-to-face with injustice and racism in many forms.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for the gifts shared by elected leaders in WDC as they conclude another year of service on the WDC Executive Board, Commissions and Gifts Discernment Committee at the end of July.

Announcements for July 10–17, 2022

July 10, 2022

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’s worship service: https://youtu.be/SY3GARPNmWA

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
July 10, 2022

Prelude—Holy, Holy, Holy (Burkhardt) and When In Our Music God Is Glorified Hobby)—
Karen Unruh

Christ Candle Lighting—Jill Robb

Welcome and Prayer—Jill Robb

*Hymn—Come We That Love—VT #31

Children’s Conversation—Adam Robb

Scripture Reading—Luke 10:25-37—Dianne Epp

Sermon—Go and do likewise—Todd Schlosser

*Hymn How can we be silent—VT 790

Prayers of God’s People—Jill Robb

*Hymn Lead me forth—VT 837

Benediction—Todd Schlosser

Postlude—O God, Our Help in Ages Past (Ashdown)—Karen Unruh

* You are invited to stand
VT = Voices Together

Audio visual—Francis Toews
Pastors—Nathan Koontz, Todd Schlosser

YouTube link to the service: https://youtu.be/SY3GARPNmWA

This Week at BCMC: July 10—17, 2022
Sunday, July 10
10:15 am    Fellowship Time with coffee and water served in the
Gathering Place
10:30 am    Faith Formation—Visitors welcome!
Adult Classes (If meeting): Agape Class (Rm B8) 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)
Monday, July 11—Pastor Todd Schlosser will be on vacation through
July 17.
Monica Lichti will be away from the office Monday. The office will be closed, Monday, July 11, and will reopen Tuesday.
Tuesday, July 12
12:00 noon      Mid-Kansas Investment Club meeting in Fellowship Hall
Thursday, July 14
4 pm                 Witness Commission meeting in Fellowship Hall
4 pm Staff Congregation Relations meeting in Room 14
7 pm Finance Committee meeting
Sunday, July 17
9:30 am   Worship with sermon by Eric Massanari
10:15 am    Fellowship Time with coffee and water served in the
Gathering Place
10:30 am    Faith Formation—Visitors welcome!

The Library theme for June and July is Caldecott and John Newbery Award Winners. We have many of these award winning books that would be of interest to both adults and children. Come check them out. We are also continuing to accept and sell puzzles. Not only are they on the cart, but also below the new book section on the west wall. Just leave a suggested donation of $5 in the envelope and enjoy. We have a long list of books that we would like to add to our collection and this is a great way to support our efforts.

The Library Committee has processed almost 20 new books, 10 of them purchased and donated by The Abuse Prevention and Response Committee. The APRC books can be found on the Pastor’s Corner shelf which is now located on the west wall with the other recent purchases. Another new purchase is “The Land Is Not Empty” by Sarah Augustine which was recommended by the Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery group. Please stop by and see what we have to offer and continue to browse and donate from our puzzle collection. The Library Committee

BCMC July 3 Offering: General Fund $10,447; Library Reserve Fund $10; Living Stones $2,190; Kitchen Fund (Coffee) $12

Western District Conference Assembly, July 29-31
Looking for a dream vacation this summer while serving the church? Camp Copass near Denton, Texas, might be just the ticket for you. It’s the site for the annual WDC Assembly. You’ll find registration information at https://mennowdc.org/2022-wdc-annual-assembly/. If attending the assembly in person, the cost for housing and meals is $168 (there is no registration fee). Transportation is available via vans from North Newton for $25 per person. There is also a virtual option for attending the assembly, although that does involve a $50 registration fee. The Gifts Discernment Committee will
provide at least $150 for any delegates attending in person; $50 dollars for those participating virtually. BCMC qualifies for 16 delegates. Registration deadline is July 15. Contact the church office or a member of the Gifts Discernment Committee if you plan to attend. GDC members: Dale Schrag, Jerry Buller, Elaine Prouty, Jeanette Stucky

Faith Formation Commission recognizes that attending summer camps is not cheap, but that it is an extremely valuable part of faith formation for our young people. We have some scholarship funding available to assist families with covering the cost of registering for the 2022 camping season. We also hope to have funds available after the camping season to provide some amount of reimbursement to all families with campers. Please contact Mary Ellen Hodge or Pastor Todd Schlosser if you’d like assistance with camp registration this summer. These funds are only available to campers who camp at Mennonite camps. We encourage you to get registered early for an awesome summer of camping experiences! If anyone at BCMC would like to support our young people attending camp you can feel free to donate to our Mennonite Camping Scholarship Fund by writing a check made out to BCMC (with Mennonite Camp Scholarship in the memo line) and drop it off on Sunday morning or in the church office.

https://forms.gle/v5q4uWeY4XE8w6vX7

Update from the Church Board:

BCMC is in a time of transition, an “in-between” time of waiting and working in the boundary between what was and what will be. These times are rich with possibility for new understanding of our past and current status and for re-envisioning and planning our future. The following are updates on Church Board work during these transitional times:

Screen Project:
It is with gratitude and excitement that we announce that we achieved the requested $12,200 commitment by the congregation to move ahead with the new screen for the front of the sanctuary. The church will also make a tithing donation to the International Rescue Committee as a part of this project. Thanks to the screen study task group for all their fine work over the last two years! And thanks to so many in our congregation who made an early donation to the project! Additional donations will be needed in the coming months to complete the project.

Expanded Pastoral Time for Nathan Koontz:
The Church Board has approved a proposal to expand Nathan’s time from ½ time to ¾ time beginning June 13. The MOU is through November 27; Nathan and the Church Board will review the arrangement together in October or November to determine continuation. His additional work will focus on preaching (one additional Sunday each month) and performing the role of worship coordinator. Worship coordination includes making arrangements for worship leaders, scripture readers, and children’s storytellers; liaison work with musicians; work with guest pastors; and other planning and tasks as appropriate. Thank you, Nathan!

New Hope Shelter be hosting a Volunteer Training Session on Thursday, July 21 at 7 pm.
New Hope’s volunteer shift hours are 5 pm to 11 pm daily.
Anyone who signs up to be a volunteer must be trained by a staff member beforehand. Even if you have volunteered before COVID, you may want to come back in for a refresher course.
If anyone who is interested in signing up for volunteer training, please contact Valetta Seymour no later than Tuesday, July 19. seymour2314@gmail.com, 620-217-7536.

Bethel College Announcements

Life Enrichment returns to Bethel College with the start of the fall 2022 semester – but It will be on a different day. Life Enrichment resumes Thursday, Aug. 25, and will be on Thursdays thereafter. Place and time remain the same: Krehbiel Auditorium, 9:30 a.m. See https://www.bethelks.edu/academics/convocation-lectures/life-enrichment for more information, and look for a brochure coming soon.

The 2022 issue of Mennonite Life, Bethel College’s annual online journal, is now live at ml.bethelks.edu, with articles and reviews by Daniel Shank Cruz, Chris Dick, June Mears Driedger, Susan Kennel Harrison, Raylene Hinz-Penner, Gordon Houser, Reinhild K. Janzen, Gayle Gerber Koontz, Steve Nolt, Rachel Pannabecker, Karen Reimer, Ben Woodward-Breckbill and Melanie Zuercher.

Western District Conference Announcements

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

Easy way to give! Do you want an easy way to donate to help cover WDC Annual Assembly expenses? Simply text 316-320-0787, then click the “Fund” dropdown menu and choose “Assembly Contributions.” We are grateful for any gifts toward this important annual gathering. Thank you for your support!

WDC Annual Assembly non-delegate fun: Not going to be a delegate, but plan to join us at Camp Copass, Denton, TX? There will be lots to do! We will have creative quiet recreational options, as well as active ones such as basketball, fishing, swimming, horse shoes, gaga ball, human foosball, and more. In addition to recreation, there will be service projects—tying MCC comforters, and collecting and bagging hygiene items for MCC, as well as for the immigration ministry of San Antonio Mennonite Church. There will be workshops to enjoy, as well. Join us! Register here https://mennowdc.org/2022-annual-assembly-registration/.

Summer Story Hour–God Rocks! – All children ages 3-8 in the central Kansas area are invited to God Rocks! Summer Story Hour at the WDC Conference Resource Library 2517 N. Main in North Newton. Fun Stories and Activities with Leader, Marjie Warkentine and Resource Library Director, Jennie Wintermote. Mondays at 10:00am on July 11, 18, 25 & August 1 & 8. Register for Story Hour here.

Mennonite Central Committee Announcements

Colorado peaches are back! Place your order for fresh Colorado peaches, just $27 for 10 lb. box and $38 for 18 lb. box by calling Mennonite Central Committee at 316-283-2720 or emailing patsydirksen@mcc.org. Peaches must be ordered and paid for by July 25. The peaches are offered as a fundraiser for the Colorado MCC Relief Sale, please make payment by check to Beth-El Mennonite Church with “peaches” in the memo line. Generous volunteers Jerry and Leann Toews will bring the peaches from Colorado to MCC in North Newton for you to pick-up around August 22.

Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Central States welcomes 3 new people to their staff. Brocia Mueller, volunteer coordinator in the MCC Workroom in North Newton; Wesley Wilder, human resources coordinator and Mahlet Mamo, young adult program coordinator.

MCC School Kit season is right around the corner! MCC is working to fulfil requests for school kits from partner organizations in Jordan, Ukraine, Malawi, Syria, Iraq, and Haiti.
Things to keep in mind when making school kits this year:
-Sewn school kit bags may be requested from the MCC Material
Resources Center.
-MCC North Newton has a large supply of pink erasers, so you can skip erasers and they’ll be added when the kit is checked at MCC.
-The pencil sharpeners need to be metal, not plastic.
-You can find the directions for school kits at mcc.org, or contact Kate at katemast@mcc.org or 316.283.2720 with any questions.

Excuse our mess! The work of making necessary repairs and reconfiguring spaces at the MCC building in North Newton continues to move forward. Donors and volunteers continue to graciously adapt to the mess. We ask for your prayers and patience during this construction process so the important work of MCC can continue without undue interruption.

Conflict is a normal part of life, but learning how to work through it is key. MCC has a resource to help you work through divisive issues, a new adult Sunday school curriculum, Peaceful Practices: A guide to healthy communication in conflict. It invites churchgoers to follow Jesus’ call to peacemaking through dialogue with each other. To follow up on the Peaceful Practices curriculum, MCC has two conversation guides, to help congregations dialogue on sensitive topics. #BlackLivesMatter: Can we have a conversation? and Critical Race Theory: How should race education be taught in schools? are available for download here.

For Mennonite Central Committee In Touch press here

Bluestem Communities will host its annual Innovations in Living with Dementia community forum through an online webinar at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 20. The evening’s presentation is “The Most Common Dementia Under 60,” which addresses frontotemporal degeneration. Registration and participation are free. One CEU approved by the State of Kansas is available for $15 for those who desire it. Pre-registration is required at bluestemks.org/dementiaforum.

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here
For Mennonite World Conference Assembly Day One press here
For Mennonite World Conference Assembly Indonesia Streaming press here
For Mennonite World Conference Assembly Day Two press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

Delegate Assembly
Now that the Special Session of the Delegate Assembly is over, and the resolutions have passed, you may have questions about what it all means. Join Mennonite Church USA Executive Board and staff members for the “Special Session of the Delegate Assembly: What now?” webinar, July 18 at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT, to explore these questions. Register here: mennoniteusa.org/webinar-whats-next

This week, please pray for Virginia Mennonite Conference congregations as they gather for their summer delegate assembly on July 14-16.

Menno Snapshots
Father’s Day has passed, but the advice that Steve Thomas of Mennonite Men shares in his blog, “Fathers” continues to encourage fathers to build loving relationships with their children. Read his advice here: mennoniteusa.org/fathers

Menno Snapshots
At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Gwen Gustafson-Zook walked into a yarn shop and came to the realization that knitting would be the key to getting her through this difficult season. See how she uses knitting as a spiritual practice in her Menno Snapshots blog, “Stitch by stitch: Knitting as a spiritual practice.” mennoniteusa.org/knitting-spiritual-practice

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for the Indonesian Mennonite churches that are hosting Mennonite World Conference Assembly. Pray that the bonds of God’s love and shalom, which participants are sharing at this global gathering, will be extended around the world, as people return to their home communities. Pray, also, for safety in travel and protection from COVID-19.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for children attending WDC’s summer story hour at the Conference Resource Library, that this would be a nurturing time of learning and fun together.

Announcements for July 3–10, 2022

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
July 3, 2022
Prelude— The Spacious Firmament (arr. DeCou)
On Jordan’s Stormy Banks(arr. Bish)—Will Wiebe-Friesen, organ

Christ Candle Lighting

Land Acknowledgement—Raylene Hinz-Penner

Welcome and Prayer

*Hymn—Here in This Place –VT 10

Children’s Conversation—Tim Hodge

Worship Music—John Mark Koontz, piano; Josh Bergman, trumpet

Scripture Reading—1 Kings 21:1-19—Heather and Justin Zerger

Sermon—Naboth and Queen Lili’uokalani—Nathan Koontz

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

Kin-dom Report—Jill Robb

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Lead On, O Cloud of Presence—VT 194

Benediction—Nathan Koontz

Postlude—Prelude and Fugue in C (J.S. Bach)—Will Wiebe-Friesen

* You are invited to stand
VT = Voices Together
Audio visual—Francis Toews
Pastors—Nathan Koontz, Todd Schlosser

Land Acknowledgement compiled by Florence Schloneger from words by Mark Charles and VT #878

As we do on the first Sunday of each month,
  we acknowledge that we worship
  on the land of the Kanza, Osage, and Wichita.
We thank them for their care and respect for this land
  and acknowledge the injustice of their forced removal.
We ask the Spirit to heal our histories
  and find new paths of right relationships with them
  and all of creation.

This Week at BCMC: July 3—10, 2022
Sunday, July 3
9:30 am Worship in the Sanctuary
10:15 am    Fellowship Time with coffee and water served in the
Gathering Place
10:30 am    Faith Formation—Visitors welcome!
Adult Classes (If meeting): Agape Class (Rm B8) 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)
Monday, July 4—The church will be locked and the office closed for the Independence Day Holiday
Thursday, July 7
7 pm       Church Board Meeting in Room 14
Sunday, July 10
9:30 am   Worship with sermon by Todd Schlosser
10:15 am    Fellowship Time with coffee and water served in the
Gathering Place
10:30 am    Faith Formation—Visitors welcome!

https://forms.gle/v5q4uWeY4XE8w6vX7

BCMC June 26 Offering: General Fund $9,497; Plant Fund $150; Library Reserve Fund $35; Living Stones $655; Mennonite Camp Scholarship $100; Kitchen Fund $20.21; Women’s Fellowship $50; Screen Project $2,000.

Change to make to your BCMC Church Directory:
Jerry and Carol Buller have discontinued their phone land line.
Jerry’s cell phone number: 316-283-0941 (this is also his shop number)
Carol’s cell phone number: 316-772-8404
Jerry’s email: jb-bullercycle@att.net

The Library theme for June and July is Caldecott and John Newbery Award Winners. We have many of these award winning books that would be of interest to both adults and children. Come check them out. We are also continuing to accept and sell puzzles. Not only are they on the cart, but also below the new book section on the west wall. Just leave a suggested donation of $5 in the envelope and enjoy. We have a long list of books that we would like to add to our collection and this is a great way to support our efforts.

The Library Committee has processed almost 20 new books, 10 of them purchased and donated by The Abuse Prevention and Response Committee. The APRC books can be found on the Pastor’s Corner shelf which is now located on the west wall with the other recent purchases. Another new purchase is “The Land Is Not Empty” by Sarah Augustine which was recommended by the Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery group. Please stop by and see what we have to offer and continue to browse and donate from our puzzle collection. The Library Committee

New Hope Shelter be hosting a Volunteer Training Session on Thursday, July 21st at 7pm.

Their volunteer shift hours are as follows: 5pm to 11pm daily.

Anyone who signs up to be a volunteer must be trained by a Staff member beforehand. Even if they have volunteered before COVID, they may want to come back in for a refresher course.
If anyone who is interested in signing up for volunteer training, please contact Valetta Seymour no later than Tuesday, July 19. seymour2314@gmail.com, 620-217-7536.

Western District Conference Announcements

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

Western District Conference Annual Assembly is for all ages! Remember that this year, there is Assembly fun and faith formation for adults, youth (ages 12-18), children (ages 6-11) , and childcare for those 5 and under. Generous scholarships for youth available! Register your whole family or youth group at https://mennowdc.org/2022-annual-assembly-registration/. Registration closes July 15.

WDC Annual Assembly Workshops – Mennonite World Conference Snapshot, Everence financial resources, Healthy Boundaries: What Is Your Pastor Learning?, church planting and revitalization, immigrant ministries of San Antonio Mennonite Church, and more! Both virtual and on-site workshops available! Register at https://mennowdc.org/2022-annual-assembly-registration/ for WDC Annual Assembly! Registration closes July 15.

Easy way to give! Do you want an easy way to donate to help cover WDC Annual Assembly expenses? Simply text 316-320-0787, then click the “Fund” dropdown menu and choose “Assembly Contributions.” We are grateful for any gifts toward this important annual gathering. Thank you for your support!

Kansas Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution Updates
2515 College Avenue, North Newton, KS 67117
kipcor.org kipcor@bethelks.edu (316) 284-5217

The following updates are some of the events and initiatives at KIPCOR that have happened so far this year:

Leadership & staffing

GOODBYE

In January, we said goodbye to Dan Wassink, our former Director of the Community Mediation Center, who recently took a position as the Dispute Resolution Services Manager in the Virginia Supreme Court’s Department of Judicial Services.

We also said goodbye to Doug Lengel, KIPCOR’s office manager in May. After seven years in his role, he decided to retire. In so many ways, Doug was the glue that held our office together. Doug was usually the first friendly face one might encounter when entering the front office at KIPCOR.

HELLO

We welcome Gretchen Schrag, as KIPCOR’s new office manager, who starts in late June. Gretchen is a former para educator for Goessel High School, who worked in that capacity for nearly a decade. She is a Bethel alum, and in the fall, she will have three children enrolled at Bethel at the same time! In her personal time, Gretchen enjoys reading a good book, cooking and gardening. We are so excited to have her at KIPCOR!

Community Mediation Center

KIPCOR Senior Associate, Kirsten Zerger continues to serve in the capacity of Interim Community Mediation Center Manager. Many of our community partners have remarked how seamless the transition has been since Dan’s departure.

We continue to offer Divorce Impact classes virtually with great success. Enrollment is steady and parents seem to appreciate taking classes via Zoom.We also continue to do all of our mediations virtually, to the satisfaction of our clients. After mastering mediations virtually, our staff has been instrumental in training other mediators from around the state and beyond in this practice.

Our KIPCOR film series continues to draw folks back to campus for in-person engagement. The past three films have brought an average of 150 people for each viewing (masked and socially distanced). We are grateful for those who have come out to join us!

Education and Training

It was a very busy year for KIPCOR Staff! Here is a list of the trainings we have done over the past few months and ones we will do in the coming months:

Organizational teaching/training/consulting:

Provided a restorative circle process for a Seattle-based nonprofit’s board and staff
Contracted with Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (KLETC) and provided a Conflict Management course for law enforcement officers in February, and offered an RJ course for school resource officers in June
Offered an Implicit Bias/ Microaggressions workshop for Harvey County Health Department in April
Offered a Conflict Management course for Kansas Department for Children and Families (offered 4 times between March and June)
Currently providing support for Prairie View with strategic planning around diversity, equity and inclusion-related implementation work

Other training offered

Core Mediation training in February
Domestic Mediation in March
Victim Offender Dialogue training in May

KIPCOR’s Restorative Schools Initiative work:

Continued support of Lawrence Public Schools and restorative justice implementation
Continued support of Kansas City Kansas Public Schools – training scheduled for all KCKPS high school staff before the start of the 2022-23 school year other upcoming RP trainings in April-May

Guest Speakers and Special Events

Last fall, Bethel College officially became a Truth Reconciliation, Healing and Transformation (TRHT) Campus Center. During the 2020-2021 school year, with the support of President Jon Gering, KIPCOR and Bethel College partnered to apply and was accepted to attend the 2021 Virtual Institute on Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation (TRHT) by the American Association of Colleges & Universities (AAC&U). In June, KIPCOR Executive Director, Sheryl Wilson and Director of Education and Training, Eva Lapp, joined three other Bethel colleagues – Academic Dean, Bob Milliman, Professor Christine Crouse-Dick, and Associate Professor Peter Goerzen – in attending the institute, exploring the possibility of becoming an official TRHT Campus Center, and creating an Action Plan to guide the college toward this goal and future implementation of TRHT on campus. In October, Bethel College was informed by AAC&U of its acceptance as the first official TRHT Campus Center in the state of Kansas. In June, the team attended its second TRHT Institute and the team is looking forward to continuing offering more racial healing circles to students, staff and faculty.

In January, KIPCOR and Bethel College Student Life co-sponsored Bethel College’s annual MLK Day Lecture given by international restorative justice facilitator, Jasmyn Elise Story. A recording of the event is on the Bethel College YouTube page. This event was very lively with approximately 200 in attendance. Jasmyn stayed well beyond the end of the event to answer questions and have conversations with attendees.

We look forward to this fall’s KIPCOR Peace Lecture Series where we will host Dr. Fania Davis, a leading international voice on the intersections of racial and restorative justice. We are thrilled that she will lead off this historic 50th season of the peace lecture series. Please check our website frequently for more information related to this very special event!

We continue to be grateful for the many ways that you have given so generously over the past year. Today is the last day that you can give to make an impact at KIPCOR this fiscal year. If you would like to donate electronically, please click here. If you would like to pay by check, but are unable to bring it to KIPCOR today, please contact KIPCOR Executive Director, Sheryl Wilson at swilson@bethelks.edu or (316) 284-5881, and she will make arrangements to retrieve it.

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond click here
For Mennonite World Conference Assembly News click here

Anabaptist Disabilities Webinar link

Webinar Available to Watch Now: “Dementia and Congregational Care”ADN is grateful to offer the recording of “Dementia and Congregational Care,” a webinar held virtually on Thursday, June 16. The webinar was led by Heddie Sumner, RN, BSN, and co-hosted by Church of the Brethren Discipleship Ministries and Anabaptist Disabilities Network.Dementia affects individuals, their family members and the congregation. Many times, we want to offer support but we do not know where to start. We often back off because we don’t want to do the wrong thing. This webinar will help you understand basics of dementia and learn how to reach out. We will offer communication tips and practical ways to stay connected. We can maintain relationships by offering reassurance, encouragement and acceptance. When we include our members with dementia and their families, the whole congregation benefits. Watch and view more resources at the link:
https://www.anabaptistdisabilitiesnetwork.org/Resources/Webinars/Pages/Dementia-and-Congregational-Care.aspx

Share your story!If you have an experience related to this topic or another related to disability inclusion in churches, we’d love to hear your story.

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Mennonite Church USA Announcements

Mennonite Church USA (MC USA) conducted a denomination-wide survey to examine what it means to be a member of MC USA and how this has changed in the past 16 years. The preliminary results can be found here, with the full study being released later this month: mennoniteusa.org/summary-denominational-study

Join all Mennonite Church USA congregations in praying for “Indonesia 2022,” the global assembly of Mennonite World Conference being held in Indonesia July 5-10. This is a hybrid (online and in person) event. For more information, visit mennoniteusa.org/mwca22

Delegate Assembly
Delegates at Mennonite Church USA’s (MC USA) Special Session of the Delegate Assembly voted on three resolutions and adopted another for denominational study. The three resolutions passed, helping remove barriers for LGBTQ folks and those with disabilities. Read the official MC USA news release here: mennoniteusa.org/news/delegate22

Menno Snapshots
The Mennonite Church USA Executive Board issued a statement condemning the violence in Uvalde, Texas, and elsewhere. Read it here: mennoniteusa.org/statement-on-recent-violence
The Executive Board also shared a call to prayer and action against gun violence, here: mennoniteusa.org/prayer-uvalde

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network’s week-long Youth Venture civil rights learning tour begins today. Pray for the 23 participants as they focus on the realities of racial injustice in the United States, both in the past and the present.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC members and others participating on-site or virtually in Mennonite World Conference Assembly in Indonesia this week, and for God’s blessing on this time of worship, fellowship, and witness of the global Anabaptist community.

Pride Month at BCMC
During June Pride month celebrating LGBTQIA persons, BCMC had pride flags flying all around our church campus. In addition, these flags were in celebration of the recent resolutions passed at the MCUSA Special Delegate Assembly that open up access to the LGBTQIA persons in MCUSA and acknowledge previous harm that has been done to them by the church. Members from our congregation attended a Unity March and potluck on June 25 in Wichita sponsored by Wichita Pride.

Announcements for June 26-July 3, 2022

This Week at BCMC: June 26-July 4, 2022
Sunday, June 26
10:15 am    Fellowship Time with coffee and water served in the
Gathering Place
10:30 am    Faith Formation—Visitors welcome!
Adult Classes (If meeting): Agape Class (Rm B8) 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)
Sunday, July 3
9:30 am       Worship with sermon by Todd Schlosser
10:15 am Fellowship Time in the Gathering Place
10:30 am     Faith Formation
Monday, July 4—The church will be locked and the office closed for the Independence Day Holiday

Have you completed the survey? Respond by July 1.
BCMC has contracted with Credence Company to help us assess congregational strengths and challenges and review our current leadership structures as we consider the future with new pastors. As a part of the process, each congregant received an emailed letter and survey on June 15. All are encouraged to complete the survey and return it promptly; our consultants are hoping to receive all responses by July 1. The survey can be completed online but will also be available in paper format for those who request it through the church office. For households with shared email addresses, it is possible for more than one person to complete the survey received through one email address. Names will differentiate surveys from the same household email address. Credence staff is now beginning oral interviews through Zoom as well; the Church Board completed a group interview on Monday evening, June 20. Please indicate on the survey if you are willing to be one of the 35 congregants who will be interviewed individually. Thanks for your participation and thoughtful responses!

About the Survey: Please find the survey by using the following link: https://credenceandco.com/bethel college-mennonite-church-discernment-process-survey/.

https://forms.gle/v5q4uWeY4XE8w6vX7

We offer sympathy to the family of James ‘Jim’ Gaeddert. James died June 15, 2022. Jim’s children are Douglas (Lisa), Gregory (Terri),Bradley (Tracy Kruse), and Janelle Benninghoff (Dan). BCMC member Joel Gaeddert is a grandchild (Crystal, Collin, and Brett). A memorial service is being planned for July 23. Details will come later.

Budget update: For May 2022, income was $35,452 and expenses were $38,968. For the year-to-date, income is $176,381 and expenses are 214,380. – The Finance Committee

BCMC June 19 Offering: General Fund $8,342; Library Reserve Fund $10; Living Stones $2,163.33; Screen Project $1,138; Kenneth Schmidt Memorial $25.

Pride Month at BCMC
During June Pride month celebrating LGBTQIA persons, we have pride flags flying all around our church campus. In addition, these flags are in celebration of the recent resolutions passed at the MCUSA Special Delegate Assembly that open up access to the LGBTQIA persons in MCUSA and acknowledge previous harm that has been done to them by the church. Also throughout the month of June, the BCMC Supportive Communities Network banner will be at the front of the sanctuary. Finally, members from our congregation will also be attending a Unity March and potluck on June 25 in Wichita sponsored by Wichita Pride. Go to their website for more details. If you are planning on attending, please contact Nathan Koontz so he can get you a button.

On-call cookie crew. BCMC thanks those who have facilitated meals and receptions after memorial services in the past. Since April, a new Funeral Committee has hosted box lunches for families, with BCMC providing dessert. We may also host receptions after a service. With that in mind, could you provide cookies, bar cookies or brownies, if it suits? To join the on-call cookie crew, email dave.linscheid@gmail.com. Thank you. – Dennis and Kathy Campbell, Tom Jackson, Dave Linscheid, Kathryn Simmons and Doris Whillock

Expanded Pastoral Time for Nathan Koontz:
The Church Board has approved a proposal to expand Nathan’s time from ½ time to ¾ time beginning June 13. The MOU is through November 27; Nathan and the Church Board will review the arrangement together in October or November to determine continuation. His additional work will focus on preaching (one additional Sunday each month) and performing the role of worship coordinator. Worship coordination includes making arrangements for worship leaders, scripture readers, and children’s storytellers; liaison work with musicians; work with guest pastors; and other planning and tasks as appropriate. Thank you, Nathan!

Screen Project:
It is with gratitude and excitement that we announce that we achieved the requested $12,200 commitment by the congregation to move ahead with the new screen for the front of the sanctuary. The church will also make a tithing donation to the International Rescue Committee as a part of this project. Thanks to the screen study task group for all their fine work over the last two years! And thanks to so many in our congregation who made an early donation to the project! Additional donations will be needed in the coming months to complete the project.

Western District Conference Announcements

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

Start out the morning with God at Western District Conference Assembly! – Tonya Ramer Wenger will be leading morning prayer Saturday and Sunday at 7 am at Camp Copass as part of our Annual Assembly. Camp Copass is on a lovely peninsula, so morning prayer will be by the lake. We hope you’ll join us. Register at: https://mennowdc.org/2022-annual-assembly-registration/

WDC Annual Assembly Workshops – Mennonite World Conference Snapshot, Everence financial resources, Healthy Boundaries: What Is Your Pastor Learning?, church planting and revitalization, immigrant ministries of San Antonio Mennonite Church, and more! Both virtual and on-site workshops available! Register at https://mennowdc.org/2022-annual-assembly-registration/ for WDC Annual Assembly! Registration closes July 15.

Easy way to give! Do you want an easy way to donate to help cover WDC Annual Assembly expenses? Simply text 316-320-0787, then click the “Fund” dropdown menu and choose “Assembly Contributions.” We are grateful for any gifts toward this important annual gathering. Thank you for your support!

June Western District Conference Resource Library Final Thursday Book Discussion: “At no other time in history or place in the world have so many people understood themselves to be suffering from mental health problems.” In Not Quite Fine: Mental Health, Faith, and Showing Up for One Another, author Carlene Hill Byron calls and equips the church to step up for such a time as this. Join us Thursday, June 30 at 7:00 pm via Zoom to discuss the book. Register by emailing crlib@mennowdc.org

Summer Story Hour–God Rocks! – All children ages 3-8 in the central Kansas area are invited to God Rocks! Summer Story Hour at the WDC Conference Resource Library 2517 N. Main in North Newton. Fun Stories and Activities with Leader, Marjie Warkentine and Resource Library Director, Jennie Wintermote. Mondays at 10:00am on June 27, July 11, 18, 25 & August 1 & 8. Register for Story Hour here.

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond click here

Berlin Exodus Presentation – Sun., June 26—7:00 pm—Come hear the story of how Mennonite Central Committee worker, Peter Dyck, moved 1,200 Ukrainian Mennonite refugees located in Berlin to a waiting ship in West Germany to travel to Paraguay in 1947 (75 years ago). The Berlin Exodus (also known as the Great Escape) is the theme of an evening presentation at Trinity Mennonite Church (211 Elm Street, Hillsboro, KS) led by Calvin Buller.

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Menno Snapshots
Glen Guyton, executive director for Mennonite Church USA, laments the violence that has taken place in the recent months. “I know that our church is not immune from the same hatred and rhetoric that may have inspired some of this weekend’s violence. It bothers me even to consider that those elements may be creeping into some corners of our historic peace church.” Read more of his reflection here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/must-take-action-not-beyond-hate

As many graduates are journeying on to a different place, many times outside of their original communities, it is important to find the balance between support and being overbearing. “Our greatest gift is offering relational support and creating a safe space for questions and wonderings, as our youths’ worldviews expand.” Learn more from Sarah Neher, director of faith formation and congregational life at Rainbow Mennonite Church, as she provides guidelines for supporting our youth: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/supporting-graduates-faith-journey

As part of Mennonite Church USA’s Learn, Pray, Join: Welcoming EveryBODY initiative, Matthew Yoder, pastor of Grace Mennonite Church, reflects on why he believes that the Accessibility Resolution is so important to him personally. “Thanks to generous friends, evolving technologies and accessible spaces, [my grandfather] is able to continue to pursue his passion of worshipping God and serving the church.” Read more of his story here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/accessibility-key-ongoing-faithfulness

As part of Mennonite Church USA’s Learn, Pray, Join: Welcoming EveryBODY initiative, Shepherd Heart, a ministry of the Pacific Southwest Conference shares suggestions on preaching about disabilities. “Accessibility is about more than accommodation. How we preach about disability is profoundly important.” Read their guidelines here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/when-preaching-on-disability

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Gordon McDade, Karen Sethuraman and Patricia Whitestone, community chaplains with Soul Space, an organization that walks alongside peacemakers in Belfast, Northern Ireland, a city fractured by partisan conflict. Pray for Gordon, Karen and Patricia as they offer hospitable spaces where people can process the traumas they have experienced.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: As we celebrate Pentecost this month, join the Church Planting Commission in praying for WDC congregations to be empowered by the Holy Spirit to explore new initiatives energizing and promoting the mission and vision of Jesus’ Kingdom of God. May each congregation be alert to their own unique opportunities and assets inviting new possibilities for discipleship, evangelism, mission, and outreach. AMEN – Pastor Tonya Ramer Wenger

Announcements for June 19-26, 2022

We offer sympathy to the family of James ‘Jim’ Gaeddert. James died June 15, 2022. Jim’s children are Douglas (Lisa), Gregory (Terri),Bradley (Tracy Kruse), and Janelle Benninghoff (Dan). BCMC member Joel Gaeddert is a grandchild (Crystal, Collin, and Brett). A memorial
service is being planned and the date will be announced later.

The memorial service for Orletta Wiebe will be Friday, June 24, 3 pm at BCMC. Orletta died June 8 at Schowalter Villa, Hesston.

This Week at BCMC: June 19-26, 2022
Sunday, June 19–Juneteenth
10:30 am    Faith Formation—Visitors welcome!
Adult Classes (If meeting): Agape Class (Rm B8) 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)
Monday, June 20—Juneteenth: a holiday for church staff; church will be locked and the office closed today
9 am            Women’s Fellowship Executive Board will meet at
Lois Preheim’s home, 3005 S. Kansas Road, Newton
Tuesday, June 21
9 am           KIPCOR (Kansas Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution) will be using the Fellowship Hall and some classrooms in the basement for meetings Tuesday through Friday morning
Thursday, June 23
2 pm             Hospitality Commission meeting in Room 14
7 pm            Deacon Commission meeting in Room 14
Friday, June 24
3 pm             Memorial service for Orletta Wiebe in the Sanctuary
Sunday, June 26
9:30 am       Worship with sermon by Todd Schlosser
10:30 am     Faith Formation

Budget update: For May 2022, income was $35,452 and expenses were $38,968. For the year-to-date, income is $176,381 and expenses are 214,380. – The Finance Committee

May 17 Offering: General Fund $3,330.00; Camp Mennoscah $1475; Living Stones $13.33; Mennonite Camp Scholarship $574; Mission Quilters $132; Keith Sprunger Memorial $250; Larry Friesen Memorial $100
May 22 Offering: General Fund $6,086; Camp Mennoscah $80; Caring Fund $25; Living Stones $80; Women’s Fellowship $498; Keith Sprunger Memorial $855.
May 29 Offering: General Fund $5,435.64; Library Reserve Fund $31; Living Stones $255; Screen Project $500; Keith Sprunger Memorial $100.
June 5 Offering: General Fund $4,570; Living Stones $340; Screen Project $2,700; Keith Sprunger Memorial $1,000
June 13, 2022: Offering: Genera Fund $9,358.95; Library Reserve Fund $20 Living Stones $430; Screen Project $3,700; Dean Koppes Memorial $50.

Pride Month at BCMC
During June Pride month celebrating LGBTQIA persons, we have pride flags flying all around our church campus. In addition, these flags are in celebration of the recent resolutions passed at the MCUSA Special Delegate Assembly that open up access to the LGBTQIA persons in MCUSA and acknowledge previous harm that has been done to them by the church. Also throughout the month of June, the BCMC Supportive Communities Network banner will be at the front of the sanctuary. Finally, members from our congregation will also be attending a Unity March and potluck on June 25 in Wichita sponsored by Wichita Pride. Go to their website for more details. If you are planning on attending, please contact Nathan Koontz so he can get you a button.

Credence and Company Consultants:
BCMC has contracted with Credence to help us assess congregational strengths and challenges and review our current leadership structures as we consider the future with new pastors. As a part of the process, each congregant will receive a survey later today to begin gathering information. All are encouraged to complete the survey and return it promptly; your perspectives are important! The survey can be completed online but will also be available in paper format for those who request it through the church office. For households with shared email addresses, it is possible for more than one person to complete the survey received through one email address. Names will differentiate surveys from the same household email address. After individual and group interviews as well as preliminary reports and feedback, the consultants plan to submit their final report to the church sometime before Advent. A reference group of David Linscheid, Lois Preheim, Megan Kohlman, Ada Schmidt-Tieszen, and Todd Schlosser has been offering feedback to the consultants. Thank you for taking on this important work!
About the Survey: Please find the survey by using the following link: https://credenceandco.com/bethel college-mennonite-church-discernment-process-survey/.

Good-bye to Pastor Renee Reimer:
The Church Board and congregation bid farewell to Renee during her last Sunday with us (June 12) and during a reception on Monday, June 13. Her final day of work with the church is June 17. We are so grateful for her work with the church and for her conversations and suggestions during this time of leaving. Although we’ll miss you, we wish you well, Renee!

Bethel College’s Prison Theater Project is currently in process, with director John McCabe-Juhnke, Bethel students and seven men from the Hutchinson Correctional Facility minimum-security East Unit. The public performance at HCF is Friday, July 1, 7 p.m., and the project is looking for an audience! If you’d like to go, contact Offender-Victim Ministries in Newton at 316-283-2038 (Mon.-Thurs.) by June 23.

Mennonites Against Militarism seeks volunteers interested in counter-recruitment efforts

Mennonites Against Militarism – a collaboration of Mennonite Central Committee, U.S. and Mennonite Church USA – is seeking to launch an initiative to counter military recruitment of U.S. youth, called Alternatives to Military Enlistment Network (AMEN). AMEN invites interested volunteers to complete a brief survey that identifies areas in which they may engage with AMEN, including administration, web and graphic design, publicity, budgeting, fundraising and guidance/career counseling. Take the survey here: https://rb.gy/gbehlm

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

Start out the morning with God at WDC Assembly! – Tonya Ramer Wenger will be leading morning prayer Saturday and Sunday at 7 am at Camp Copass as part of our Annual Assembly. Camp Copass is on a lovely peninsula, so morning prayer will be by the lake. We hope you’ll join us. Register at: https://mennowdc.org/2022-annual-assembly-registration/

June WDC Resource Library Final Thursday Book Discussion: “At no other time in history or place in the world have so many people understood themselves to be suffering from mental health problems.” In Not Quite Fine: Mental Health, Faith, and Showing Up for One Another, author Carlene Hill Byron calls and equips the church to step up for such a time as this. Join us Thursday, June 30 at 7:00pm via Zoom to discuss the book. Register by emailing crlib@mennowdc.org

Summer Story Hour–God Rocks! – All children ages 3-8 in the central Kansas area are invited to God Rocks! Summer Story Hour at the WDC Conference Resource Library 2517 N. Main in North Newton. Fun Stories and Activities with Leader, Marjie Warkentine and Resource Library Director, Jennie Wintermote. Mondays at 10:00am on June 27, July 11, 18, 25 & August 1 & 8. Register for Story Hour here.

June 15, 2022

Urgent prayer request from Ecuador

Peter Wigginton, who is serving in Ecuador with his wife, Delicia Bravo, has been struggling with back problems. Recently, the pain was so severe that he had to go to the emergency room. Peter has consulted with two surgeons and is facing possible surgery for a herniated disc. Peter and Delicia request prayer for healing and for wisdom as they decide whether to have surgery.

The timing of Peter’s back pain is disappointing as Delicia and Peter and their two daughters, Aliyah, 8, and Ariana, 5, were planning to go to Bolivia to visit Delicia’s family on July 4. It has been three years since the family has been able to visit with parents and extended family, due to COVID restrictions. Pray that the visit to Bolivia can be rescheduled in the not-too-distant future. Blessings!

Lynda Hollinger-Janzen
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Ministry
Direct phone: 574-523-3043, Fax 316-283-0454
Toll Free: 1-866-866-2872 Ext. 23026
E-mail: LyndaHJ@MennoniteMission.net
“Together, sharing all of Christ with all of creation.”

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond click here
For Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

Menno Snapshots
Learn, Pray, Join: Welcoming EveryBODY is a collaborative initiative between Mennonite Church USA and Anabaptist Disabilities Network that celebrates the many gifts that people with disabilities bring to our church communities. Christle Hain, the marketing communications and engagement associate for MC USA, reflects on her life as a person with “disability” and her experiences in the Mennonite church. Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/educating-listening-around-disability

As part of Mennonite Church USA’s “Learn, Pray, Join: Welcoming EveryBODY” initiative, Suzanne Kratz, volunteer manager at Care & Share Thrift Shoppes, shares about her experiences creating spaces for friends with differing abilities. “When welcoming people into our communities, it is important that we remember that each and every person has been created by a loving God, in God’s image.” Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/should-i-say-everybody

Joanne Gallardo points out in her recent Menno Snapshots blog that our society today “lives by the gun.” She argues that, as Christian pacifists, we are called to something different. Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/entitled-to-violence

In her Menno Snapshots blog, Katie Graber shares about being part of the Voices Together hymnal committee. “The goal of writing songs – or producing any art – together is not to produce a ‘big hit’ but to make something that is meaningful to individuals and to the community.” Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/camp-songs-anabaptist-voices

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for the members of Mennonite churches in Venezuela, as they extend the love of Jesus to their neighbors during a time when more than 90% of the population is living in poverty, and more than 75% are experiencing extreme poverty. Pray for the churches as they address both food insecurity and spiritual hunger.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for WDC’s Gifts Discernment Committee, and pray for the Holy Spirit to guide their decisions as they prepare nominations for elected leadership positions to bring for delegate action at WDC’s annual assembly.

Announcements for June 12-19, 2022

A memorial service will be held for Kenneth Schmidt on Saturday, June 11 at 11 am. You are welcome to attend in person or on line. Kenneth Schmidt is the son of Betty Schmidt of BCMC.

We offer sympathy to the family of Dean Koppes. Dean died at Kidron Bethel Village on May 30. Dean was a long time member of BCMC. Please remember his wife, Linda, in prayer. You can click on this link for Dean’s obituary.
https://petersenfamilyfuneralhome.com/obituaries/dean-wilke-koppes/

We offer sympathy to the family of Orletta Wiebe. Orletta died June 8 at Schowalter Villa, Hesston. A memorial service is being planned and the date will be announced later.

Brad, Megan, Lincoln, & Lawrence Kohlman would like to invite our BCMC family to an ice cream social in our backyard – 707 Wheat Lane, Hesston, KS! Come & go from 6:30-8:00 pm on Sunday, June 12.
We’ll have water, ice cream with toppings, and yard games. Bring a lawn chair and another drink if you’d like and join us for a fun evening!
RSVPs appreciated to meganbkohlman@gmail.com.

Farewell Reception for Pastor Renee Reimer
Join us for a come-and-go Farewell Reception for Renee Reimer on Monday, June 13, from 5 – 7 pm. We’ll be outside on the church lawn, wind and weather permitting.

This Week at BCMC: June 12-19, 2022
Sunday, June 12
10:30 am    Faith Formation—Visitors welcome!
Adult Classes (If meeting): Agape Class (Rm B8) 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)
An Invitation from the Seekers Sunday School Class
Today Seekers Sunday school will meet in the Fellowship Hall. Kamala Platt will read from her poetry book: “Gravity Prevails: and so does love”. Everyone is welcome
6:30 to 8 pm Come & go ice cream social at Brad, Megan, Lincoln, and Lawrence Kohlman’s house, 707 Wheat Lane, Hesston
Monday, June 13
5-7 pm        Come and go reception for Pastor Renee Reimer
Tuesday, June 14
12 noon       Mid Kansas Investment Club meeting in Fellowship Hall
Sunday, June 19—Juneteenth
9:30 am      Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz
10:30 am    Faith Formation

Library Committee Announcement
The Library theme for June and July is Caldecott and John Newbery Award Winners. We have many of these award winning books that would be of interest to both adults and children. Come check them out.

We are also continuing to accept and sell puzzles. Not only are they on the cart, but also below the new book section on the west wall. Just leave a suggested donation of $5 in the envelope and enjoy. We have a long list of books that we would like to add to our collection and this is a great way to support our efforts.

To fellow worshipers of Bethel College Mennonite Church:
The screen study committee is grateful for the strong support that our fellowship has given to installing a screen in our sanctuary. We continue to believe that it will enhance worship and provide enhanced experiences for conferences, weddings and other events.
We have been receiving gifts and commitments to cover the requested 1/4^th of the total cost of the project prior to beginning installation. To date, we have received a little less than ½ of the required $11,250.00. McClellan Sound has advised us that there will be a significant price increase for the projector and screen in the middle of June. So there is some urgency for us to fulfill the balance of the “tithe” very soon so that we can begin the installation. We request and encourage those able to contribute toward the project to do so very soon. These contributions can be in the form or cash donations or pledges to be completed at a later time.
Thanks, Bill Swartley, Church Board member

Faith Formation Commission recognizes that attending summer camps is not cheap, but that it is an extremely valuable part of faith formation for our young people.
We have some scholarship funding available to assist families with covering the cost of registering for the 2022 camping season. We also hope to have funds available after the camping season to provide some amount of reimbursement to all families with campers. Please contact Mary Ellen Hodge or Pastor Todd Schlosser if you’d like assistance with camp registration this summer. These funds are only available to campers who camp at Mennonite camps. We encourage you to get registered early for an awesome summer of camping experiences!
If anyone at BCMC would like to support our young people attending camp you can feel free to donate to our Mennonite Camping Scholarship Fund by writing a check made out to BCMC (with Mennonite Camp Scholarship in the memo line) and drop it off on Sunday morning or in the church office.

Pride Month at BCMC
During June Pride month celebrating LGBTQIA persons, we have pride flags flying all around our church campus. In addition, these flags are in celebration of the recent resolutions passed at the MCUSA Special Delegate Assembly that open up access to the LGBTQIA persons in MCUSA and acknowledge previous harm that has been done to them by the church. Also throughout the month of June, the BCMC Supportive Communities Network banner will be at the front of the sanctuary. Finally, members from our congregation will also be attending a Unity March and potluck on June 25 in Wichita sponsored by Wichita Pride. Go to their website for more details. If you are planning on attending, please contact Nathan Koontz so he can get you a button.

Life Enrichment returns to Bethel College with the start of the fall 2022 semester – but It will be on a different day. Life Enrichment resumes Thursday, Aug. 25, and will be on Thursdays thereafter. Place and time remain the same: Krehbiel Auditorium, 9:30 a.m. See https://www.bethelks.edu/academics/convocation-lectures/life-enrichment for more information, and look for a brochure coming later this summer.

Bethel College’s Prison Theater Project is currently in process, with director John McCabe-Juhnke, Bethel students and several men from the Hutchinson Correctional Facility minimum-security East Unit. The public performance at HCF is Friday, July 1, and the project is looking for an audience. If you’d like to go, contact Offender-Victim Ministries in Newton at 316-283-2038 (Mon.-Thurs.) before June 24.

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

June WDC Resource Library Final Thursday Book Discussion: “At no other time in history or place in the world have so many people understood themselves to be suffering from mental health problems.” In Not Quite Fine: Mental Health, Faith, and Showing Up for One Another, author Carlene Hill Byron calls and equips the church to step up for such a time as this. Join us Thursday, June 30 at 7:00pm via Zoom to discuss the book. Register by emailing crlib@mennowdc.org

Summer Story Hour–God Rocks! – All children ages 3-8 in the central Kansas area are invited to God Rocks! Summer Story Hour at the WDC Conference Resource Library 2517 N. Main in North Newton. Fun Stories and Activities with Leader, Marjie Warkentine and Resource Library Director, Jennie Wintermote. Mondays at 10:00am on June 27, July 11, 18, 25 & August 1 & 8. Register for Story Hour here.

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here
For Mennonite Central Committee In Touch press here
For Mennonite World Conference press here
For Anabaptist Disabilities Network Connections press here
To register for Anabaptist Disabilities Network Webinar “Dementia and Congregational Care” press here
For Mennonite Education Agency New Scholarship to Dismantle Racism press here

The Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp June newsletter is here! (Press on the word June)

MENNONITE CHURCH USA ANNOUNCEMENTS

Mennonite Church USA (MC USA) has named Lorraine Stutzman Amstutz as denominational minister for Peace and Justice. In this role, she will resource conference ministers, conferences and pastors with opportunities to strengthen capacity and engagement in Christ-centered peace and justice, as well as serve as a liaison and coordinator for peace and justice initiatives throughout MC USA. Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/news/peace-justice

Menno Snapshots
Sue Park-Hur, director of racial/ethnic engagement for Mennonite Church USA, reflects on the 1992 L.A. Riots/Uprising. “Even after 30 years, we still have a difficult time agreeing on how to name the event, because it impacted the various communities so differently.” Read her reflections here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/gathered-to-remember-testify

In times that “try our souls,” it is easy to be tempted into the narrative that there is a good and a bad side. In her Menno Snapshots blog, Carolyn E. Yoder wrestles with what it means to be an Anabaptist in times like these. “These are the times that try our nonresistant/nonviolent souls. May they also be the times that accelerate the rising consciousness of another way to meet evil in the world.” Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/times-that-try-our-souls

A longtime Anabaptist and war tax resister, Harold A. (“H.A.”) Penner, shared a letter that he and his wife, Barbara, sent to the Internal Revenue Service, that said, “We conscientiously object on religious grounds to the payment of that portion of our federal income taxes that supports war making and militarism…” Read the full letter here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/tax-resistance-letter

In her Menno Snapshots blog, Kate Wentland discusses her experience cooking traditional Ukrainian foods with friends. “My friends and I cooked together to eat in solidarity, to talk about the war and what it means to offer a peaceful witness, and to donate together.” Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/ukrainian-dinner-party

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Voluntary Service participants, serving through Mennonite Mission Network, are in their final months at their unit houses and volunteer placements. Pray for them as they bring closure to relationships in their hosting communities and find ways to implement what they have learned, as they move into their futures.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC congregations in pastoral transition, that they would experience God’s faithfulness, love and guidance during times of change and uncertainty.

Announcements for June 5-12, 2022

Sunday, June 5, 2022

This Sunday, June 5, worship (followed by a potluck lunch!) will be held at Athletic Park beginning at 10:00am. Come out and join all the Mennonite Newton churches for worship and support our children as they wrap up their week long Vacation Bible School together. Bring your own lawn chair for the worship service. If you plan to eat lunch following the service, please bring a potluck dish to share and your own table service. We are looking forward to seeing you there!

The BCMC church building will not be open on Sunday, June 5th. The live-stream link to this Sunday’s worship service is different than normal. You can use this link to watch from home. 10 am Worship Service at Athletic Park (worship will be approximately 30 minutes) All who attend are welcome to participate in a game and a craft afterwards.

Please pray for the sr high youth group this week as they travel to Colorado to do a week of service at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp June 6th-11th. Renee Reimer will be out of the office joining them on this last adventure together.

The Next Week at BCMC
Monday, June 6
7 pm Facilities Committee Meeting in Fellowship Hall
Tuesday, June 7
6-9 pm Private event in Fellowship Hall
Thursday, June 9
9 am Library Committee in the Library
4 pm Staff Congregation Relations Committee Meeting in Room 14
Saturday, June 11
11 am Memorial service for Kenneth Schmidt in the Sanctuary

Prairie Bronze Handbell Ensemble Concert
The Prairie Bronze Handbell Ensemble will present a concert June 5, 2 pm at the First Presbyterian Church, 900 Columbus, Newton. Guest artist will be Brett Jackson on saxophone and clarinet. The concert is free and open to the public.

Memorial Service for Jim Goering
The memorial service for Theodore James “Jim” Goering will be held Saturday, June 11, 10:45 am, at Grace Community Church, 1600 South Anderson Road, Newton. Visitation will be Friday, June 10, 6-8 pm, also at Grace Community Church. Jim died April 13, 2022 at Kidron Bethel Village. Jim’s wife is Shirley Goering and his siblings are Josephine Schmidt, Homer Goering, Helen Nachtigal, and Vernon Goering. You can view Jim’s obituary at this link: https://www.broadwaycolonialfh.com/obituary/jim-goering
The Celebration of Life service will be streamed and can be found under Grace Community Church’s YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCphjoHNJdI3dX26ItfQzGpw

An Invitation from the Seekers Sunday School Class
June 12 Seekers Sunday school will meet in the Fellowship Hall. Kamala Platt will read from her poetry book: “Gravity Prevails: and so does love”. Anyone is welcome.

Chancel Choir Director needed at BCMC
Bethel College Mennonite Church (North Newton, KS) is looking for a Chancel Choir Director. This is a part-time position, August 15-May 15. As part of the team of musicians on the church staff, the director is responsible for music selection, rehearsals, and performances of the Chancel Choir. The choir sings approximately 2 times per month during September-May and participates in a Christmas Eve program. Rehearsals are Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:30.

Inquiries should be addressed to Barbara Thiesen, Music Coordinator. Email: thiesenjba@gmail.com.
Application forms are available from Monica Lichti, Office/Facilities Manager. Phone: 316-283-3667; email: office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org

Barbara Thiesen
BCMC Music Coordinator

Summer Camp Season is approaching!
Faith Formation Commission recognizes that attending summer camps is not cheap, but that it is an extremely valuable part of faith formation for our young people. We have some scholarship funding available to assist families with covering the cost of registering for the 2022 camping season. We also hope to have funds available after the camping season to provide some amount of reimbursement to all families with campers. Please contact Mary Ellen Hodge or Pastor Todd Schlosser if you’d like assistance with camp registration this summer. These funds are only available to campers who camp at Mennonite camps. We encourage you to get registered early for an awesome summer of camping experiences!

If anyone at BCMC would like to support our young people attending camp you can feel free to donate to our Mennonite Camping Scholarship Fund by writing a check made out to BCMC (with Mennointe Camp Scholarship in the memo line) and drop it off on Sunday morning or in the church office.

Sat., June 4 – The public is invited to Walk Sand Creek Trail Day, part of National Trails Day®. Water will be available for people and leashed dogs at the trailhead at Memorial Grove on the Bethel College campus, dawn to dusk (6 a.m.-8 p.m.), courtesy of the Sand Creek Trail Committee, with members there to answer any questions about the trail.

Sat., June 4 – Kauffman Museum first-Saturday bird walk, 7 a.m. start time in the museum parking lot at the corner of Main and 27th streets in North Newton. 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).

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

Register for the WDC Annual Assembly! – Whether you are an adult (delegate or non-delegate), youth, or child, you are invited to Camp Copass! Please register now at: https://mennowdc.org/2022-annual-assembly-registration/. For more information, go to the Assembly website: https://mennowdc.org/2022-wdc-annual-assembly/

Summer Reading Challenge – Everyone across WDC is invited to join the Summer 2022 God Rocks! Reading Challenge. Sign up on the Resource Library’s Beanstack page at https://mennowdc.beanstack.com/reader365. This challenge is for readers of all ages to explore just how amazing God is! Read to earn tickets for prize drawings (gift certificates for coffee and books) as well as free books and other fun prizes. Registration is open now and the challenge runs June 1 through July 31

Invitation to support Mennonite World Conference – As WDC prepares to participate in the upcoming MC USA delegate assembly May 27-30, and our own annual assembly July 29-31, we remember that we are also part of a global Anabaptist fellowship! Mennonite World Conference (MWC) Assembly will take place July 5-10, 2022, with an in-person gathering in Indonesia, as well as an online program. See the WDC website for more information.

Berlin Exodus Presentation – Sun., June 26—7:00 pm—Come hear the story of how MCC worker, Peter Dyck, moved 1,200 Ukrainian Mennonite refugees located in Berlin to a waiting ship in West Germany to travel to Paraguay in 1947 (75 years ago). The Berlin Exodus (also known as the Great Escape) is the theme of an evening presentation at Trinity Mennonite Church (211 Elm Street, Hillsboro, KS) led by Calvin Buller.

Mennonite Central Committee Webinar
Dear Bethel College Mennonite,
I invite you to join us for our third webinar in a series on welcoming newcomers. Register today for Welcoming asylum seekerson June 21, at 2:00 p.m. EDT.

Asylum seekers, like refugees, are migrants who flee their homes due to a fear of violence or persecution. Join MCC and partners from across the U.S. to learn more about who asylum seekers are and the many ways the faith community can walk alongside them in their journey to find safe refuge.

During this webinar, Katherine Smith, West Coast MCC’s Border and Migration Coordinator will share about what families experience at the U.S.-Mexico border. Cecilia Valenzuela from Casa Mariposa Detention Visitation Center will share about the need for accompaniment for asylum seekers currently in detention. Jessica Sapalio, program coordinator for Unitarian Universalist Service Committee’s Congregational Accompaniment Program for Asylum Seekers, and Rev. Chris McNabb, Neighbor to Neighbor Program Manager for Episcopal Migration Ministries, will share about programs to help churches sponsor asylum seekers in their own community.

You can view the previous Welcoming refugees webinar here and Addressing the trauma of migration webinar here.

We hope to see you on June 21! If you have questions, please reach out to me at welcome@mcc.org.

Kind regards,Charity Stowell
Newcomer Connections Coordinator
MCC U.S. National Peace & Justice Ministries

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here
For Anabaptist Disabilities Network press here

MENNONITE CHURCH USA ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mennonite Church USA (MC USA), in partnership with Anabaptist Disabilities Network, has launched “Learn, Pray, Join: Welcoming EveryBODY,” an initiative that celebrates the many gifts that people with disabilities bring to our church communities. In June, MC USA will seek to engage people in this initiative by offering resources, prayers and ways to care for one another and to address issues of accessibility in the church. Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/news/welcoming-everybody

Mennonites Against Militarism – a collaboration of Mennonite Church USA and Mennonite Central Committee, U.S. – is seeking to launch an initiative to counter military recruitment of U.S. youth, called Alternatives to Military Enlistment Network (AMEN). AMEN invites interested volunteers to complete a brief survey that identifies areas in which they may engage with AMEN, including administration, web and graphic design, publicity, budgeting, fundraising and guidance/career counseling. Learn more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/news/mennonites-against-militarism-seeks-volunteers/ Take the survey here: https://rb.gy/gbehlm

Bryan Miller from Beth-El Mennonite Church, Colorado Springs, Col., and RAWtools, Inc. are auctioning Miller’s sculpture, “Never Forgets Peace,” to benefit Mennonite Church USA’s Justice Fund. The sculpture is made from gun parts and is being auctioned from June 1-30, 2022, during Gun Violence Prevention Month. Learn more at rawtools.org/rawshop

Menno Snapshots
Mennonite Church USA invited members from across the denomination to share their hopes, thoughts and spiritual reflections ahead of the Special Session of the Delegate Assembly (May 27-30). Read through their blogs here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/tag/delegate-assembly/

The Poor People’s Campaign “follows the spirit and analysis of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. in identifying and combatting the ‘evil triplets’ of systemic racism, poverty and the war economy, along with attendant ecological devastation and the false moral narrative of religious nationalism.” Rod Hollinger-Janzen, administrative assistant for Church Vitality in Mennonite Church USA, walks through the reasons why he is an avid supporter of the campaign. Read more, including how you can be involved in the Mass Poor People’s and Low-Wage Workers’ Assembly and Moral March on Washington and to the Polls, on Saturday, June 18: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/meet-peoples-needs/

Prayer Request for Mennonite Mission Network: Martine Audéoud, serving with Mennonite Mission Network, vacated her office apartment in France to make space for people fleeing the Russian invasion of Ukraine, but God sent her a Nigerian family with three children instead. Pray that this family will find support and be able to start a new life. Pray also for Martine as she prepares lectures and counsels doctoral students from her kitchen table.

Prayer Request for Western District Conference: Pray for WDC congregations hosting Vacation Bible School this summer, as they share God’s love and good news with children in the church and the surrounding neighborhoods.

Announcements for May 29-June 5, 2022

May 29, 2022

Worship for this week will be a pre-recorded worship service jointly created with Bethel College Mennonite Church and Shalom Mennonite Church. The worship video will be accessible through the BCMC YouTube Channel by clicking here. After you click on this link you will need to then click on the video that says: BCMC Worship May 29, 2022. This service will not be live streamed and will not be finished until Saturday night so you will not be able to click on the normal live stream button or access it prior to Sunday morning. For those who would like to worship in community on Sunday morning, the worship video will be shown in the fellowship hall beginning at 9:30am and followed by informal conversation with one another.

Please continue to pray for all those gathering in Kansas City for the special delegate assembly Friday, May 27th to Monday, May 30th. The BCMC delegates are: Nathan Koontz, Renee Reimer, Todd Schlosser, Megan Kohlman, Esther Koontz, and Emma Beachy.

May 29, 2022

A service of celebration

Welcome–Ben Woodward-Breckbill and Renee Reimer

Hymn– The Love of God– Voices Together 162–(BCMC)

Scripture Reading–Acts 2:1-6 & 12-21–Voices from SMC

MCUSA Sermon– The Way of Peace in our Polarized World– Samuel Sarpiya

Hymn– I will Pour Out My Spirit on All My People–Doug and Jude Krehbiel

Delegate Reflection–SMC and BCMC Delegates

Prayers of God’s People–Nathan Koontz

Postlude– Bound Together As One –SMC

This week at BCMC
Sunday, May 29, 2022 Vlog with Shalom, BCMC (Supportive Community Network churches in Newton)
9:30 am Watch the collaborative vlog on your own or in the fellowship hall with other BCMC folks followed by informal conversation. Watch on the BCMC YouTube Channel.
The church nursery is open but not staffed through the summer months.
Children and youth Sunday School classes will not be meeting in the summer
Adult Classes (If meeting): Agape Class (Room B8); Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Book Study (Rm 20); Mosaic Class (Fellowship Hall); Open Circle (Room 21); Seekers (Rm 28); Sojourners (Chapel)
Monday, May 30, 2022—Memorial Day—Church will be locked; office closed
Thursday, June 2, 2022
7 pm Church Board Meeting in Room 14
Sunday, June 5, 2022
10 am Worship Service at Athletic Park (worship will be approximately 30 minutes) All who attend are welcome to participate in a game and a craft afterwards. If you plan to eat lunch following the service, we are asking that you bring a potluck dish to share. Please bring lawn chairs and your own table service. We are looking forward to seeing you there!

Vacation Bible School
Please pray for the children who will be attending VBS from May 31-June 3. Bible passages that will be discussed during the Passport to Peace VBS will be: Acts: 26-40, Matthew 25: 31-46, 1 Samuel 25:1-35, Genesis 26:12-33, and Luke 10:25-37.
The June 5 Vacation Bible School joint church service will be held at Athletic park at the large shelter house. Worship will be at 10:00am and will last approximately 30 minutes. All who attend are welcome to participate in a game and a craft afterwards. If you plan to eat lunch following the service, we are asking that you bring a potluck dish to share. Please bring lawn chairs and your own table service. We are looking forward to seeing you there!

A Note from the Reopening Task Group Regarding the Fellowship Hall
The Reopening Committee is recommending removing limitations and allowing the BCMC Fellowship Hall to function as it was functioning pre-pandemic, including potlucks, fellowship coffees, and funeral meals to groups that fit the capacity. It has been determined the capacity in fellowship hall for health reasons, fire code, and mobility reasons is 125 persons. With that capacity limit, we may need to be creative in how to serve groups that are larger than 125 persons. Please note that the removal of restrictions does not mean that funeral meals, fellowship coffee, potlucks, and other fellowship hall activities will immediately resume in pre-pandemic fashion. Commissions and committees will still need time to organize and decide how they can best serve our church and our community. This removal of restrictions is also with the caveat that if our church and broader community needs dictate, we will move to more limited measures in the future.
– The Reopening Task Group: Renee Reimer, Adam Robb, Todd Schlosser, Jeanette Stucky, Barbara Thiesen, Doris Whillock, Monica Lichti

We offer sympathy to Metta Lieb on the death of her brother, Herb Janzen, (93 years old), May 26, in Cheney, Washington. Herb is also brother-in-law to Dotty Janzen.

Thank you from Aldine Sprunger and Family
Thanks to the church staff and church community for all of your support after Keith’s death.
– Aldine Sprunger and Family

Address Changes for Your BCMC Directories

· Marilyn Graber has moved to 115 W. 9th, Room/Box 614, Newton, Ks, 67114
· Edie Krehbiel has moved to Paramount (formerly Asbury Park), 415 SW 12th Street, Room F, Newton, KS, 67114
· As of June 18 Ilene Schmidt’s address will change to 3056 Ivy Court, Apt. 7, North Newton, KS, 67117
· New phone number for Bonnie Epp: 316-772-2383
· Rebecca Mueller has moved to 13912 Greinert Drive, Pflugerville, TX 78660

Retractable Screen in the Sanctuary
At the April congregational meeting, members of the BCMC community voted in support of a project that will install a retractable screen in the front of the sanctuary. With this in mind, the Church Board is happy to announce that a special, above-budget fund has been established to accept donations toward this project.If you would like to give to this project, please earmark your donation to the “screen project”. For more information on this, please see the minutes from the April congregational meeting. Thanks for your support! (A copy of the April 24 Congregational Minutes is posted on the church bulletin board.)

Barbara Thiesen
BCMC Music Coordinator

Rejoice Devotional Subscriptions
For those of you who are currently subscribed to the Rejoice Devotional Magazine, the last issue for this year (June-July-August) is in your mailboxes here at church.
To renew for the coming year (or if you wish to join as a new subscriber) please drop a check in the offering plate for $33.11 (in the memo line put “Rejoice” subscription), or mail your check to the church at PO Box 364, North Newton, KS, 67117, or bring to the church office by May 31.

BETHEL COLLEGE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Sat., June 4 – The public is invited to Walk Sand Creek Trail Day, part of National Trails Day®. Water will be available for people and leashed dogs at the trailhead at Memorial Grove on the Bethel College campus, dawn to dusk (6 a.m.-8 p.m.), courtesy of the Sand Creek Trail Committee, with members there to answer any questions about the trail.

Sat., June 4 – Kauffman Museum first-Saturday bird walk, 7 a.m. start time in the museum parking lot at the corner of Main and 27th streets in North Newton. 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).

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

Office Schedule – The WDC Office and Resource Library will be closed Monday, May 30 for the Memorial Day Holiday. We will open again on Tuesday, May 31.

WDC 2022 Assembly Website

Summer Story Hour–God Rocks! – All children ages 3-8 in the central Kansas area are invited to God Rocks! Summer Story Hour at the WDC Conference Resource Library 2517 N. Main in North Newton. Fun Stories and Activities with Leader, Marjie Warkentine and Resource Library Director, Jennie Wintermote. Mondays at 10:00am on June 27, July 11, 18, 25 & August 1 & 8. Register for Story Hour here.

Summer Reading Challenge – Everyone across WDC is invited to join the Summer 2022 God Rocks! Reading Challenge. Sign up on the Resource Library’s Beanstack page at https://mennowdc.beanstack.com/reader365. This challenge is for readers of all ages to explore just how amazing God is! Read to earn tickets for prize drawings (gift certificates for coffee and books) as well as free books and other fun prizes. Registration is open now and the challenge runs June 1 through July 31.

Please consider joining MCC for a virtual lobby week for peace on the Korean Peninsula on June 13-17, 2022.

June 25 will mark the 72nd anniversary of the beginning of the Korean War. Though there was a ceasefire in 1953, the United States and North Korea have yet to sign a peace treaty to officially end the war. Thousands of Korean Americans continue to be separated from family members, and humanitarian access in North Korea remains challenging.
At the 7th annual Korea Peace Advocacy Week, hundreds of people across the country will participate in virtual advocacy meetings to urge their members of Congress to support:

*   A Peace Agreement to end the Korean War
*   Life-saving humanitarian assistance
*   Reunification of separated families

➩➩➩ Register here by May 26.

Prior to the advocacy week, you will:

* Receive a one-hour training on how to advocate to members of Congress

During the advocacy week, you will:
* Have one to three meetings with congressional staff. Meetings with members of Congress will take place during the week, typically between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. EDT. Meetings usually last about 30 minutes, and coordinators will do their best to work with your schedule.

Feel free to reply to this email with any questions, and we hope to see you there!

Sincerely,

Kate Parsons
Legislative Associate
Mennonite Central Committee U.S.

For Mennonite Mission Network Stir up peace webinar press here
For Mennonite Mission Network news and beyond press here
For Mennonite Mission Network a joining of Pentecost and creation care press here
For Mennonite Mission Network News from around the world press here
For Mennonite Creation Care Newsletter press here

MENNONITE CHURCH USA ANNOUNCEMENTS

The next Women Doing Theology Conference of Mennonite Church USA’s Women in Leadership has been postponed until Fall 2023 (dates and location to be announced). After prayerful discernment, the committee decided that hosting the event in 2023 would allow space for planners to develop a more equitable, accessible and inclusive in-person event. For more information on Women in Leadership, visit mennoniteusa.org/wil

Menno Snapshots
In his blog rooted in Luke 19:42, Naun Lucoer Cerrato, founder of Piedra Viva Mennonite Church, Elkhart, Indiana, writes that we are so excited to see the death of an enemy that we miss what Jesus was trying to do in building a spiritual kingdom. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/should-bring-peace

Menno Snapshots
“If the conditions or requirements of hospitality are that the stranger be familiar to us, then are we truly willing to welcome the stranger?” write Daniela Lazaro-Manalo and Hannah Markey-Roberts. In their blog, they address the systematic immigration issues at the southern border of the United States in relation to Ukrainian refugee resettlement initiatives. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/welcoming-white-stranger

Menno Snapshots
When Jason Kauffman, director of Mennonite Church USA Archives, was asked to create a Mennonite women’s history timeline, he saw it as an opportunity to learn more about Mennonite history. That’s when he faced questions and doubts about the different historical aspects of this project and his role as historian. Read his blog here: mennoniteusa.org/on-history-humility

Menno Snapshots
Heidi Regier Kreider, conference minister for Western District Conference, contemplates what it means to be a follower of Jesus in times of war. Read her reflections here: mennoniteusa.org/lament-face-of-war

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network praises God for the growth of Mennonite Bible School (formerly Bethany Bible School) in South Africa. Pray for the school’s coordinator, Reuben Mgodeli, as he teaches and provides administrative support in five locations in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province. Pray also that the participants will be strengthened in their faith and in their leadership ministries.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for Casa del Alfarero Church, so that God opens new paths, new ideas to reach the community in which the seed of the Gospel is sown, and so that together we can be in harmony and peace and above all connected with the vision and desire of God. – Pastor Alberto Parchmont

Announcements for May 22-29, 2022

This week at BCMC
Sunday, May 22, 2022
9:30 am Worship Service (in person and live streamed)
10:30 am Faith Formation
The church nursery is open but not staffed through the summer months.
Children and youth Sunday School classes! 10:30-11:30 am
Preschoolers – Room B4        Middlers (3rd-8th graders) – Room 26
High School – Room 24   Koinonia (college students welcome!) – The Agape House   The Agape Class will meet in Room B8
Adult Classes (If meeting): Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5);
Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Book Study(Rm 20); Open Circle (Room 21); Seekers (Rm 28); Sojourners (Chapel)
Monday, May 23, 2022
10 am         Library Committee meeting in Room 14
Tuesday, May 24, 2022
6:30 pm     Abuse Prevention and Response Committee meeting
Thursday, May 26, 2022
2 pm            Hospitality Commission meeting in Fellowship Hall
Sunday, May 29, 2022 Vlog with Shalom, BCMC (Supportive Community Network churches in Newton)
9:30 am     Watch the collaborative vlog on your own or in the fellowship hall with other BCMC folks followed by informal conversation. Watch on the BCMC YouTube Channel.

A MESSAGE FROM COMMUNITY PLAYSCHOOL
Community Playschool, Inc. has recently completed our school year and we are excited to say that, despite Covid-19, we were able to stay in person and open all school year! Twenty children of the Newton community participated in the program this year at a minimal cost to their families, thanks to five area churches and United Way. We again want to thank BCMC for being one of those supporting churches through monetary donations, the use of the facilities, secretarial and custodial services and a welcoming attitude toward our program. It is nice to have a home here! We also are grateful for the matching grant that we received from this church through the Everence Sharing Fund, and to the Women’s Fellowship and the Seekers Sunday school class for their donations. Members of the facilities committee also helped with installation of the new storage shed on the playground. I want to acknowledge the service of Clifferd Dick as BCMC’s representative on our board, also serving as treasurer. Barb Voran, Stahli Claassen and Cynthia Linscheid, served as teachers, helpers, and substitutes this year. These volunteers help make it possible for us to continue to provide an affordable preschool experience to families who need it most. A big thanks to Monica Lichti and Mike Crawford for their extra duties related to our being housed here at BCMC!
We solicit your prayers and continued support for the future of our organization.
With gratitude,
Kasey Newell and Jeanette Leary, Directors

Barbara Thiesen
BCMC Music Coordinator

A Message from the Abuse Prevention and Response Committee
Are you “Unsatisfied”? Particularly with your knowledge of how you can impact change of our church culture? Join us during the Sunday School hour May 22 to read the article “Unsatisfied”. Lead by members of the APRC, we will read this short article, “Unsatisfied”, together and discuss how purity culture has impacted our current culture at BCMC . Articles will be made available that day. Jill Robb, APRC Chair

Vacation Bible School

Vacation Bible School will happen at First Mennonite Church on May 31-June 3 from 5:30-7:30 pm, with a joint end of the week celebration and worship service at Athletic Park on Sunday, June 5. Our theme this year is Passport to Peace! Families with children ages preschool through 5th grade may register to attend. A light supper will be provided between 5:30-6:00. A huge Thank you to all who volunteered to help during this week! Families may register using the following link or by scanning the QR code: https://forms.gle/F4nMekBbbdAYDve86

Contact Mary Ellen Hodge for any assistance or questions!

BETHEL COLLEGE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Sun., May 22 – Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum program, Dave Kreider, “Collecting for College and Community: Past, Present and Future,” 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum auditorium.

Sat., June 4 – The public is invited to Walk Sand Creek Trail Day, part of National Trails Day®. Water will be available for people and leashed dogs at the trailhead at Memorial Grove on the Bethel College campus, dawn to dusk (6 a.m.-8 p.m.), courtesy of the Sand Creek Trail Committee, with members there to answer any questions about the trail.

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

Mini Service Projects at WDC Annual Assembly: July 29-31, at Camp Copass, Denton, TX, adults, youth and kids will help with on-site service projects, including tying comforters for MCC to send to people who have fled their homes, and making MCC hygiene kits. Please ask your church to help collect the following items and bring them to Camp Copass:

1 adult-size toothbrush (in manufacturer’s packaging)
1 large bar bath soap (leave in wrapper)
1 nail clipper (good quality)
1 hand towel (medium weight, dark or bright colors; approx. 16 in x 26 in)
1 wide-toothed comb (6–8 in)

The 2022 WDC Annual Assembly at Camp Copass, Denton TX on July 29 to 31 will feature a youth event for junior high and high school youth across the conference. The youth programming will include times for faith formation, worshiping together, a service project and plenty of recreational activities. Bunk house lodging is available during the retreat. Some scholarships will also be available. Contact Nita Nikkel at nitaknikkel@gmail.com or 316-587-7765 with questions. More information and registration coming soon!

Summer Story Hour–God Rocks! – All children ages 3-8 in the central Kansas area are invited to God Rocks! Summer Story Hour at the WDC Conference Resource Library 2517 N. Main in North Newton. Fun Stories and Activities with Leader, Marjie Warkentine and Resource Library Director, Jennie Wintermote. Mondays at 10:00am on June 27, July 11, 18, 25 & August 1 & 8

Building a Lasting Connection Relationship Retreat – Communication is key for a healthy and long-lasting relationship. During this 2-day retreat, couples will learn and practice skills together that promote healthy communication with one another in order to promote ways of effectively expressing hope, validating feelings, and navigating concerns together. While these skills are helpful for all people, this retreat will be geared toward couples who have been together for 10 years or under (married, engaged, or dating are all welcome). This retreat will be held at Camp Mennoscah and led by Katie Dyck (LCMFT) and Renee Reimer (ordained pastor). This retreat will primarily focus on communication and connection on a secular level, but spiritual practices to do together will also be offered for couples searching to connect on the Divine level too.
To register for this innovating retreat, complete this google form or visit catherinedycktherapy.com.

Iglesia Menonita Casa Betania will host a service of ordination for Pastor Graciela Tijerina on Sunday, June 12 at 2:30 p.m., in the sanctuary of First Mennonite Church, 429 East First Street, Newton, KS. Members of the wider church community are welcome to this time of worship and celebration!

MENNONITE CENTRAL COMMITTEE ANNOUNCEMENTS
MCC in need of material resources – MCC is resuming shipments of material resources to Ukraine. Five containers of emergency supplies are being shipped to Ukraine in the next few months with more planned for later in the year. With this increase in demand for supplies for Ukraine and other countries around the world, MCC’s inventory of material resources is getting low. We need comforters, soap and towels as well as dignity, hygiene, infant care, relief, school and sewing kits. Your donations will provide relief and a tangible sign of hope to people in Ukraine and other difficult situations around the world. Go to mcc.org/kits for information on needed supplies and drop-off locations.

Join the MCC Central States team! We are hiring an Human Resources Coordinator, a Young Adult Program Coordinator and a Material Resources Center Volunteer Coordinator. Find out more about each position and apply today at mcc.org/serve/openings.

Gardening for good: Creation care tips for your backyard and stories from Bolivia, May 26 at 7 pm CDT, 6 pm MDT. In this virtual visit, we’ll explore what it looks like to care for the planet––from our own backyards to remote Bolivian communities. Join us to learn gardening and conservation tips in your own garden, then travel south to hear incredible stories from MCC’s projects in Bolivia. Learn more and register at mcc.org/virtual-visits.

CAMP MENNOSCAH ANNOUNCEMENTS

New Camper Discount from May 18 to June 1! Camp Mennoscah is offering a $22 discount to anyone who hasn’t registered for summer youth camp yet. Already registered? Get someone else to register and we’ll apply the discount to your account, too. Register here! See the attached letter for details! Summer Youth Camp scholarships are also available. Contact us at 620-297-3290 or fill out the request form. Camp is for everyone!

Other events and happenings:

Work & Play Day on May 21!You are invited to join in fellowship and service! Projects for all ages and weather are available. Let us know you’re coming so we can be prepared for you! Bring your lunch and a water bottle. The day will start at 8:30 at the maintenance shed. End your day with a leisurely kayak ride or stroll to the sandbar. Contact Olivia at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org to sign up.
Hay bales needed! Camp Mennoscah needs approximately 24 rectangular bales for hayrack rides. The ones we have are ready for Rumpelstiltskin to spin into gold. Contact us at 620-297-3290 or office@campmennoscah.org for information or to donate!
Camp Mennoscah is looking for people to provide a “main course” for approx. 12 people during the week of June 5-10.Camp will provide the extras for the meal and staff do the meal prep as a team building exercise. During this week, summer staff do training for Youth Development, the Staff Handbook, Reducing the Risk of Abuse, and more. This week prepares the staff to create great camp experiences for a summer of campers. Contact Olivia at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for details.
‘Tis the Season for Mowers and String Trimmers! Camp Mennoscah is looking for people to help keep the campgrounds trimmed and looking neat. Let us know when you would be able to mow or string trim! Call 620-297-3290 or email office@campmennoscah.org –we’ll get you scheduled!
Nurse needed for the July 3-9 camp! Your time and skill give campers a week of growing in Christian fellowship and experiencing God’s great creation. Nurses need to be a licensed RN. Contact us at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org
Pardon the Mess! Camp Mennoscah is cleaning out and organizing maintenance sheds and other buildings. Items in the front “yard” will slowly find new homes. Thank you for your understanding!
Groups are invited to set their own precautions based on the comfort level of their group. Please note the RV electrical hookups are not available due to safety concerns.
Camp staff work hours vary depending on scheduled events for the week. The office assistant also works part-time from home. (Whenever a group is at camp, a staff person will be on duty.) Thank you for understanding! We will be in touch as soon as possible.

For Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level click here
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond click here

MENNONITE CHURCH USA ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mennonite Church USA is holding a Special Session of the Delegate Assembly in Kansas City, Missouri, May 27-30. Pray that delegates have open and discerning hearts, as they make decisions that affect the denomination.

Menno Snapshots
“While Mennonites might be known for peacebuilding efforts and justice-focused upper-education curricula, our internal dynamics hint otherwise,” writes Amanda K Gross, an anti-racist organizer and artist, in her blog, “Playing in the Honeysuckle and Poison Ivy.” Read it here: mennoniteusa.org/honeysuckle-poison-ivy

Menno Snapshots
“What gives you joy?” asks Dan Schrock, one of the wellbeing specialists for Mennonite Church USA’s The Corinthian Plan. In his blog, he asserts that, by working to find what brings us joy, we are drawn nearer to the heart of God. Read more: mennoniteusa.org/gives-you-joy

Menno Snapshots
Joyce Peachey Lind, who attended the Pastors & Leaders | Deep Faith 2022 conference earlier this year, shares how starting her first pastorate in the middle of a pandemic taught her a lot about being a pastor during wilderness time. Read more about her experiences here: mennoniteusa.org/respite-wandering

Harvey County Bigs Needed
Our youth are waiting to be matched with a mentor like you! Spending a few hours of one-to-one time a month with a Little has a proven, long-lasting impact that will change their life for the better, forever. With individual, couple, and family match options available, it’s never been easier to be a friend. Learn more or sign up by calling or texting the word BIG to Rachel Bachman at 316.282.4721.
Sincerely,
RACHEL R. BACHMAN
1311 N. Main Street, Newton, KS 67114
Volunteer Recruiter
Main: (316) 283.0070 Cell: (316) 282.4721

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Brian and Noelia Fox of Mennonite Mission Network visit the Mennonite church in Barcelona, Spain, monthly. Pray that God will protect the Fox family on the roads, as they make the seven-hour drive from their home in Burgos. Pray also for the congregation in Barcelona as they discern their next avenues of ministry.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for the many ways that WDC’s Resource Commission and Resource Library encourage spiritual growth, and pray for meaningful discussion at this week’s “Final Thursday” book discussion sponsored by the Resource Library.