Category Archives: Announcements

Announcements for November 28-December 5, 2021

Advent begins this Sunday, Nov 28. Worship begins with an Advent prelude at 9:15am, and Communion will be served as part of worship (with prefilled elements). Introduction to this season is available in the attachment below and on the table in the Gathering Place. Advent resources are also on the table.’

The Witness Commission Advent project will be to supply food items and in kind donations to the Bethel College Food Pantry. We will be collecting items at the table in the Gathering Space. Press here for a list of needed items for the food pantry.

You are invited to share a poinsettia for the sanctuary for the Christmas season. The Worship Decorating Committee will purchase the poinsettias, and have them delivered to the church. To contribute, email the following to the office: Donor’s:name;
In memory of;
Or in honor of.
Make a payment of $10.00 (made out to BCMC and designated “Flower Fund”) place in the offering plate or bring to church office by Dec. 3. Susie Swartley will have forms at a table in the back of the sanctuary this Sunday, Nov. 28, if you wish to fill out a form in person. Contributors may pick up a poinsettia Dec. 24 after the 5 pm Christmas program or after the Christmas Eve, 9 pm program; or, if you can, leave them for the service on Dec. 26.

Congratulations to Pastor Renee Reimer on the publication of her article “The Story of a Modern-Day Red Tenant: Empowering Women Through Bible Reading“, which appears in the most recent edition of Vision: A Journal for Church and Theology (Institute of Mennonite Studies). Here is a link to the issue that contains Pastor Renee’s article, which in part discusses her experience with the Bethel College women’s Bible study group. (Once on the site , you can access the issue by clicking onto the rectangle at the bottom left of the page labeled 22.2).

bcmcXpress
Remember to complete the online bcmcXpress intent form (https://flinthillsdesign.wufoo.com/forms/bcmcxpress-2022-intent-to-give/) by December 3, 2021 .

Don’t Forget to Return your Gifts Discernment Survey! Sharing our Gifts

If you are in high school or older, you can:

complete the survey online (preferred), by following this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf5Qc8YX-STobITfc3zp-7jvBsXQq4M3MjOeqCnS4j_vKbVBg/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0
or fill out a paper copy and deposit it in the return box (both can be found on a table in the Gathering Space).

If you are in middle school-age or younger, you can:

complete the survey online, by following this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSea_gU8AabIYFYZ1XLJfxgGtOAfwwvgcJNQEbd8umg1uDLsMg/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0
or fill out a paper copy and deposit it in the return box (both can be found on a table in the Gathering Space).

This week at BCMCMonday, November 29
8—10 am    Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2—3 pm      Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
Tuesday, November 30
9—11 am Community Playschool
7 pm          Abuse Prevention and Response Committee—by Zoom
Wednesday, December 1
8—10 am   Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2—3 pm     Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
6:45 pm     Menno Singers—Fellowship Hall
7 pm           Youth Group
7:30 pm     Chancel Choir—Sanctuary
Thursday, December 2
4 pm           Funeral Committee Meeting—Fellowship Hall
6:30 pm     Church Board Meeting in Fellowship Hall
Sunday, December 5—Second Sunday of Advent
9:30 am     Worship Service in the Sanctuary
10:30 am   Faith Formation
4-6 pm       Creche Making in Fellowship Hall

Vote on Abuse Prevention and Response policy. Thank you to everyone who participated in the special congregational meeting to vote on the Abuse Prevention and Response Policy. All votes were counted – in-person paper ballots, mailed-in ballots, and zoom poll votes. There were 102 total votes. The policy was approved with 94 yes votes and 8 no votes. Thank you again for input and feedback received. Press here for a copy of the approved policy. Hard copies of the policy are available in the Gathering Place on the window ledge by the mailboxes.
Pastoral transition update. The board is reviewing interim candidate information received from Western District Conference, and has an interview scheduled.
A service of release and blessing is being planned for Pastor Dawn on her last Sunday, January 2, 2022.
With thanksgiving,
Elizabeth Schmidt, Moderator

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

2022 Summer staff applications are being accepted! Applicants should be 18 years old or older and in agreement with the Camp Mennoscah mission statement. See website for details. Information and the online application can be found here! Call or email with questions!
Other events and happenings:

Giving Tuesday is November 30. There aren’t any gimmicks this year to encourage you to give, just stories. Remember the camper who stayed after campfire to talk to counselors about faith and life struggles. Think of the awe-filling trips in inner tubes down the river at night and the campfires with the starry heavens above. Spend a moment with your own memories of Camp Mennoscah. Encourage everyone to follow Jesus Christ by supporting the faith formation ministry of Camp Mennoscah here. Checks can be sent to Camp Mennoscah, PO Box 65, Murdock, KS 67111.
Christmas Gathering on Dec. 18 at 2:30pm! Join us in the Dining Hall at Camp Mennoscah for afternoon fun–bring games to play indoors or out. Camp will provide popcorn and generic pop. (Masks recommended and encouraged for inside activities.)
We are grateful for you! We continue to get calls from volunteers and receive gifts of items off the Wish List. These items and projects help with the faith formation that happens at Camp Mennoscah. The list has more wishes and there are more projects to do. We can accommodate every group size, skill set and length of project you would like to tackle. Email office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to volunteer. See the Wish List for other ways to support Camp Mennoscah!
Camp Mennoscah has openings for a part-time custodial/housekeeping position (10 hours) and a part-time office/administrative position (30 hours with benefits). Some of the office/administrative tasks can be done from home. Contact Olivia at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for more information.

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

Hesston College Events
– Dec. 4 7 p.m.
You are invited to a theatre and music performance that explores what coming “home for Christmas” means for a diversity of people and cultures.

Music and Theatre Present:  Home For Christmas
   Hesston Mennonite Church

   https://www.hesston.edu/academics/departments/fine-arts/music/ All performers fully vaccinated for COVID-19 will perform without masks. Audience members are required to wear masks.  No tickets are required, but a free-will offering will be accepted following the performance. Program and livestream available at  www.hesston.edu/music.– Dec. 7 7:30 p.m.

Returning to Hesston College after ten years, Canadian Brass will perform as part of the 2021-22 Sunflower Performing Arts series. This ensemble explores many genres of music and has added nearly 600 new arrangements to the brass quintet repertoire. In its 49th season, Canadian Brass is known for concerts that display virtuosity, creativity and humor.

Sunflower Performing Arts: Canadian Brass
Hesston Mennonite Church

https://www.hesston.edu/sunflower-performing-arts/canadian-brass/

Audience members will be required to wear a mask, according to current Hesston College guidelines. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 620-327-8158 or click sunflowerarts.org.

Mennonite Central Committee Announcements
Have yourself a honkin’ good holiday, December 17 from 4-6 p.m.! MCC is thrilled to host this drive-thru event again this year. Order your charcuterie box(es) today to enjoy in the comfort of your home, spread Christmas joy and order extra to give as gifts! Suggested donation per box is $25. We’re also collecting items for MCC hygiene kits at this event. Place your order by 5 p.m. on December 9. Details and order form are on mcc.org. Questions? Please call 316.283.2720.

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

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Celebrate Advent with the Mennonite Church USA annual Advent at Home worship guide, “Dare to Imagine.” This free, downloadable guide is designed for people and groups of all ages. It offers weekly Scriptures, background information, prayers, activities and rituals from the beginning of Advent to Epiphany (Nov. 28 to Jan. 6). Download the guide here: mennoniteusa.org/adventathome[Download congregational PPT slide here]

Mennonite Church USA Women in Leadership has relaunched its “Holding It(,) Together” podcast. The podcast, made by women for women, emphasizes intersectionality and community, creating a space for women to hear other people’s stories. This season’s theme is “Bodies Holding It(,) Together.” Learn more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/news/hit.

Mennonite Church USA appreciates your support this Giving Tuesday (Nov. 30), as we work together to continue living into our churchwide Renewed Commitments of following Jesus, witnessing to God’s peace and helping our communities experience transformation. Explore the various ways you can support the work of the denomination here: mennoniteusa.org/give/

Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of Poverty
Erick Josue Martinez is a student at Goshen College, who is studying to be a financial planner, so he can help people in low-income and immigrant communities. In his blog, “From my window (Desde mi ventana),” he shares how his upbringing in an impoverished immigrant community inspired him to help others. Read in English here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/from-my-window. En español: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/desde-mi-ventana.

Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of Poverty
Redlining has been illegal in the United States for half a century, but its effects still have a lasting impact on Black, Latino/a, Asian, Indigenous and other people of color. Vice President of Community and Church Development for Everence Leonard Dow, in his blog, “Finding inspiration in history: Human-made solutions to human-made problems,” shares what this impact looks like in Philadelphia, as well as practical steps that people can take to enact change. https://www.mennoniteusa.org/human-made-solutions-problems

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Alfonsina and José Oyanguren have walked alongside Toba-Qom churches in the Argentine Chaco since 2004, serving through a partnership that includes the Argentina Mennonite Church, Mennonite Mission Network and congregations in Ohio. Pray for them and their children as they build relationships and promote Indigenous languages and cultures.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for pastors, musicians, worship leaders and teachers who guide WDC congregations in celebrating the upcoming Advent and Christmas season.

Announcements for November 21-28, 2021

Congregational Meeting, Sunday, November 21st at 10:45am
Please use this Zoom Link to join the Special Congregational Meeting remotely to vote on the proposed Abuse Prevention and Response Policy. This meeting’s sole purpose is to vote on the proposed policy, there will not be a time of discussion during the meeting. We will use the poll function for zoom attenders. Paper ballots will be available for in-person attenders.

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 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 button. Click the red button to see the bulletin/order of service.

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
November 21, 2021
A Service of Gratitude
Prelude—Cello Concerto in D minor (Lalo)—Caleb Garber cellist, Lisa Schmidt pianist

Christ Candle Lighting—Nathan Koontz

Introit—VT #9 Come Away from Rush and Hurry – vs. 1—Chancel Choir
William Eash, director; Verlene Garber accompanist

Welcome
*Hymn— Now Thank We All Our God—VT 1
Children’s Conversation—Megan Kohlman
Worship Music—Do Not Fear (Fred Gramann)—Chancel Choir

Scripture Reading—Psalm 118:1-9; 22-29—Vern Preheim
Sermon—Gratitude in the Midst of Grief—Renee Reimer

*Hymn—Praise, I Will Praise You Lord—VT 131
Prayers of God’s people—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—Great Is Thy Faithfulness—VT 419
Benediction—Renee Reimer

Benediction Response—VT #839 Go Ye Now in Peace— Congregation join the choir on the second singing of the verse

VT = Voices Together

Audio visual—Ken Lamp
Pastors—Renee Reimer, Nathan Koontz, Dawn Yoder Harms

The Koinonia Sunday School class is looking for breakfast goodies for the next 5 Sundays. Please contact Pastor Renee if you’d like to bring something on one of those Sundays.

Pastor Renee is collecting empty shoe boxes (or similar size boxes) for a church Advent project. If you have any you’d be willing to donate, please leave them on the back pew of the sanctuary (by the nursery).

This week at BCMC

Monday, November 22
8—10 am    Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
10 am          Library Committee Meeting in Room 14
2—3 pm      Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
Tuesday, November 23
9—11 am Community Playschool
Wednesday, November 24—No choir practices tonight or Youth Group
Thursday, November 25—Thanksgiving Day—Church closed—
Happy Thanksgiving!
Friday, November 26—Office Closed; Church Locked
Sunday, November 28—First Sunday of Advent
For an Intro to Advent (Advent devotional-“Dare to Imagine”) – Press here
9:30 am     Worship Service in the Sanctuary
10:30 am   Faith Formation

bcmcXpress
Our congregation’s stewardship process, known as the bcmcXpress, provides us with opportunity to reflect on our commitment to seeking God’s treasure together through the sharing of our financial resources. It also provides us with a concrete way to Xpress BCMC’s values, priorities, and commitments:  to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.

In that spirit, you are invited to participate in the ministry at BCMC by discerning a financial commitment for 2022.  To indicate the contributions you plan to make to the general budget and Living Stones in 2022, please complete the online intent form (https://flinthillsdesign.wufoo.com/forms/bcmcxpress-2022-intent-to-give/)  by December 3, 2021 . If you plan to give via the electronic transfer system in 2022, please make a request via email to Mike Claassen (treasurer@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org). This is separate from the online giving option found on the website.

Information from the intent forms will be combined to determine total commitments for 2022. Based on the intents received, the Church Board will recommend a final budget for approval at the congregational meeting in January 2022.

Press here for the entire letter sent to the congregation:  Congregational Letter

Press here for the 2022 BCMC Budget: Budget Narrative

Don’t Forget to Return your Gifts Discernment Survey!
Sharing our Gifts
As a way of gathering up our gifts, skills, and talents for this kin-dom work, BCMCs Gifts Discernment Committee (GDC) invites you, whatever your age, to consider the gifts you would like to share with the congregation (and beyond) by completing BCMC’s Sharing Our Gifts Survey by November 28, 2021.

If you are in high school or older, you can:

complete the survey online (preferred), by following this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf5Qc8YX-STobITfc3zp-7jvBsXQq4M3MjOeqCnS4j_vKbVBg/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0
or fill out a paper copy and deposit it in the return box (both can be found on a table in the Gathering Space).

If you are in middle school-age or younger, you can:

complete the survey online, by following this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSea_gU8AabIYFYZ1XLJfxgGtOAfwwvgcJNQEbd8umg1uDLsMg/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0
or fill out a paper copy and deposit it in the return box (both can be found on a table in the Gathering Space).

Thank you for sharing the gift of who you are
as we follow Jesus
in doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.

The Gifts Discernment Committee: Dale Schrag (chair), Norma Johnson, Elaine Prouty, Frank Stucky, Dawn Yoder Harms (staff liaison)

Staff Schedules: Pastor Nathan Koontz will be gone from Nov. 23-28. Pastor Renee Reimer will be gone from Nov. 24-27.

Prayer Network is an email ministry of the Deacon Commission to provide prayer support when requested. To be added to the list, contact: office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch or call Monica at 316-283-3667. Thank you to the people who already are on the prayer network.

Budget update: October was a major shot in the arm to the church’s fiscal health. At the end of September, we had an expense over income deficit of $32,895. At the end of October, that deficit had been cut to $18,593. Thank you for coming through to make such amazing progress, but we aren’t done. We have two months to go to complete the recovery. Also remember that if you have to make a required minimum distribution (RMD) before the end of the year, you can direct it to the church, which is a charitable organization for income tax purposes.

Living Stones II update: The fellowship hall/kitchen renovations are complete and paid for! Please continue to contribute to Living Stones as you are able to begin preparing for other upgrades or renovations that may become necessary.

We offer sympathy to Willis Harder and family on the death of Willis’ brother, Donald C. Harder, Nov. 9, Wheat State Manor, Whitewater.

Helen Bargen’s 90th birthday is on November 26! Her family invites you to participate in a card shower to help her celebrate. You can send cards to:
Helen Bargen
3054 Ivy Ct. Rm 32-S
North Newton, KS 67117

New Hope Shelter
As the end of 2021 approaches, we want to say THANK YOU for your partnership throughout the year. As of 9/30, New Hope Shelter had already served more than 200 men, women and children this year. The loving support of our church volunteers and supporters enables us to serve those in crisis for short windows of time as they find stability and start anew. A recent quote from a former resident who is employed full-time in a steady job since New Hope: “Through the small group opportunities that were offered, the many one on one encounters with staff and volunteers, I experienced the love of God in new and powerful ways. The holidays could have been very sad and depressing. Instead, they were some of the most meaningful times I have experienced in recent years.” We invite your continued prayers and support as we continue to serve, love and equip in the months ahead.
–New Hope Shelter, 900 W. Broadway, Building 7, Newton. 316-283-7711

Bethel College Events

All bakers and craft makers are invited to make items for 5 Places of Christmas on Saturday, December 4 at Goerz House on Bethel College campus. Bethel College Women’s Association will again be selling baked goods, craft items, and poinsettias. Christmas candy, zwieback, peppernuts, poppyseed rolls and cinnamon rolls are always great sellers. Please bring your items to Goerz House on Friday, December 3 from 1:30-4:30pm or Saturday, December 4 from 7:00-9:00am.
Thank you for your support of Bethel College!

Mon., Nov. 22 – Bethel College Wind Ensemble Winter Concert, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors with groups of 10 or more.

Sat., Dec. 4 – Five Places of Christmas, the annual holiday open house, includes Kauffman Museum and Goerz House on the Bethel College campus, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. No charge for admission. The Bethel College Women’s Association (BCWA) is the host at Goerz House, where there will be baked goods and other items for sale. Please plan to wear a face covering indoors and follow all COVID-19 protocols requested by the venue. (Other locations: Warkentin House, Harvey County Historical Museum and Carriage Factory Gallery, all in Newton.)

Hesston College Event

– Dec. 4 7 p.m. You are invited to a theatre and music performance that explores what coming “home for Christmas” means for a diversity of people and cultures. Music and Theatre Present:  Home For Christmas
   Hesston Mennonite Church
https://www.hesston.edu/academics/departments/fine-arts/music/ All performers fully vaccinated for COVID-19 will perform without masks. Audience members are required to wear masks.  No tickets are required, but a free-will offering will be accepted following the performance. Program and livestream available at  www.hesston.edu/music.

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

Camp Mennoscah Announcements
Giving Tuesday is November 30. There aren’t any gimmicks this year to encourage you to give, just stories. Remember the camper who stayed after campfire to talk to counselors about faith and life struggles. Think of the awe-filling trips in inner tubes down the river at night and the campfires with the starry heavens above. Spend a moment with your own memories of Camp Mennoscah. Encourage everyone to follow Jesus Christ by supporting the faith formation ministry of Camp Mennoscah here. Checks can be sent to Camp Mennoscah, PO Box 65, Murdock, KS 67111.

Other events and happenings:
Summer staff applications open! Applicants should be 18 years old or older and in agreement with the Camp Mennoscah mission statement. Information and the online application can be found here! Call or email with questions!
Christmas Gathering on Dec. 18 at 2:30pm! Join us in the Dining Hall at Camp Mennoscah for afternoon fun–bring games to play indoors or out. Camp will provide popcorn and generic pop. (Masks recommended and encouraged for inside activities.)
We are grateful for you! We continue to get calls from volunteers and receive gifts of items off the Wish List. These items and projects help with the faith formation that happens at Camp Mennoscah. The list has more wishes and there are more projects to do. We can accommodate every group size, skill set and length of project you would like to tackle. Email office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to volunteer. See the Wish List for other ways to support Camp Mennoscah!
Camp Mennoscah has openings for a part-time custodial/housekeeping position (10 hours) and a part-time office/administrative position (30 hours with benefits). Some of the office/administrative tasks can be done from home. Contact Olivia at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for more information.
Camp Mennoscah is seeking a full-time Director of Development, Marketing & Communications to lead our ongoing operational and advancement needs. This position reports directly to the Board of Directors while taking directive from the Executive Director when related to operational considerations. As a member of a small, very hands-on staff, the role is expected to be highly collaborative. This professional must embrace the mission of Camp Mennoscah, have an established background in coordinating nonprofit donation strategies, possess strong written, interpersonal, leadership and relationship building skills, and work as an independent contributor with good organization and follow-through. Most of the work will commence off campus, however some in-person time at camp is required. This role involves organizing broad-based fundraising initiatives, advocating for Camp Mennoscah through speaking engagements, promotional materials, and social media, as well as recruiting volunteers, and building relationships with board members, donors and staff. Our ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree, a minimum of five years of fund development experience, or equivalent experience in church relations, and a passion for Camp Mennoscah. They should also be familiar with office related applications, and other technology used for communication and social media. Experience with CampBrain and the associated donor database is a plus. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled and early submission is encouraged. Please send application materials (resume, cover letter, references and salary requirements) to campmennojobs@att.net.

For Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level press here
For Mennonite World Conference Courier press here
For Mennonite Mission Network Giving Tuesday press here
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Are you looking for a meaningful Christmas gift for friends or family? Give a gift of peace and inspiration with the “Pause: Play, Breathe, Pray” card deck! Developed by Mennonite Church USA Faith Formation leaders, each card has a different image on one side and a prayerful pause on the other. Learn more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/pause-play-breathe-pray

Calling all pastors and faith formation leaders! Registration is now open for Pastors & Leaders | Deep Faith 2022, a joint conference of Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary (AMBS) and Mennonite Church USA Faith Formation. Join us Feb. 21-24, 2022, either virtually or in person on the AMBS campus in Elkhart, Indiana, to explore the theme, “Formed in the Wilderness, Leading in Hope.” Learn more here: ambs.edu/pastorsandleaders.

Menno Snapshots
Ruth Goring, Mennonite author of children’s books, wrote about how her faith community nurtured her writing and art for children. Read her blog, “Picture books for the kin-dom of God,” here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/kin-dom-of-god.

Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of Poverty
In his blog, “Seeing poverty up close around the world,” Stanley Green, executive conference minister of Pacific Southwest Mennonite Conference, recounts his experiences with poverty in Cambodia, South Africa and Argentina, where he saw people impoverished due to low wages, lack of education, gentrification and systemic oppression. Read about his experiences here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/seeing-poverty-up-close

Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of Poverty
In his blog, “Poverty and climate injustice,” Doug Kaufman of the Center for Sustainable Climate Solutions explains how climate injustice affects people experiencing poverty and communities of color disproportionately, which causes further economic and ecological problems. Read how churches can help people in these vulnerable communities here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/poverty-climate-injustice

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Liz Breckbill and Erin McWilliams are participants in Mennonite Mission Network’s Alamosa, Colorado, Mennonite Voluntary Service unit. Pray for them as they extend the ministry of the Anabaptist Fellowship of Alamosa, through educating local youth on environmental issues in their community and contributing to environmental restoration.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for God’s faithfulness, goodness and generosity, and the many ways that WDC congregations share these gifts so that God’s healing and hope flow through us to the world.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Announcements for November 14-21, 2021

This week at BCMCMonday, November 15
8—10 am    Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2—3 pm      Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
Tuesday, November 16
9—11 am Community Playschool
Wednesday, November 17
8—10 am   Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2—3 pm     Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
6:45 pm     Menno Singers—Fellowship Hall
7 pm           Youth Group
7:30 pm     Chancel Choir—Sanctuary
Thursday, November 18
9-11 am     Community Playschool
2 pm           Hospitality Commission in Fellowship Hall
4 pm           Staff Congregation Relations Committee—Rm 14
6:30 pm     Chancel Bells—Room B7
7 pm           Bethel College Women’s Association in Fellowship Hall
Friday, November 19
8—10 am  Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2—3 pm    Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
Sunday, November 21
9:30 am     Worship Service in the Sanctuary
10:30 am   Faith Formation

Pastor’s Renee and Nathan will be attending their last Transition into Leadership (a 2 year program through AMBS) weekend November 12-14.

BCMC COMMUNITY NEWS

Helen Bargen’s 90th birthday is on November 26! Her family invites you to participate in a card shower to help her celebrate. You can send cards to:
Helen Bargen
3054 Ivy Ct. Rm 32-S
North Newton, KS 67117

Norma Johnson’s brother, Tim Johnson of Denver, Colorado passed away on Wednesday, November 10 at age 63 from early onset Alzheimer’s disease. Please keep Tim’s spouse, Stacie McMullen, and all of the Johnson family in your prayers as they mourn his death and celebrate his life.

On Sunday, November 21^st at 10:45am the congregation will hold a special hybrid congregational meeting to vote on the proposed Abuse Prevention and Response policy. This meeting’s sole purpose is to vote on the proposed policy, there will not be a time of discussion during this meeting. If you do have questions regarding this new proposed policy or want to better understand the rationale of how we used your feedback, please send your questions to office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org by November 18^th. An APRC member will do their best to answer any questions directly before the November 21^st meeting. Paper ballots will be available for in-person attenders and zoom attenders will be able to vote via the zoom poll option. Please let Monica, in the church office, know if you would like a paper ballot to mail in prior to the meeting. The mail in ballots will need to be returned to the church office by November 18^th in order to be included in the vote count.

“Thinking of You”
The Deacons Commission is working on a “Thinking of You” campaign for people who are isolated due to COVID and other health concerns. For the next few Sundays, we will have a table at the back of the sanctuary with pages for your comments to members of our church whom we haven’t been able to see for a while. Please stop by and write a short greeting or sign your name to let them know we are thinking about them. For those of you who are unable to attend worship but can stop by the church during the week, these letters will be in the library during the week for anyone to write a note before we send them out. Thank you! -–Deacon Commission

Our speaker for Peace Sunday was Mel Lehman, who works with Common Humanity. He talked about the Middle East and peace efforts there. One of the things he mentioned was exchanging Christmas cards. We have that opportunity.
We will be sending cards to Bethlehem Bible College in Bethlehem, Israel. Small or medium sized cards are recommended. Sign and then print you name. First name only or first and last initial are also fine. You may print a short message if you wish. There will be cards on a table in the gathering place for you to sign, if you wish. Address the card to “A friend in Bethlehem”.
All cards must be back in the church office by Sunday, November 14. Cards for us should be returned by Christmas.
Thank you. Witness Commission

LOCAL SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES and NEWS

Meat Canning Days Are Coming
Mennonite Central Committee works to meet hunger, sanitation and education needs around the world. One of the ways local people can help is at our yearly meat canning event. This year it will be November 16 and 17 for Newton area churches at the MCC mid states building in North Newton. Please use the attached link to sign up to help. Financial donations are also needed. If you have questions, talk to your church’s MCC contact person (Lowell Stucky) or call the MCC office ((316) 283-2720). Thanks.
https://tinyurl.com/MeatCanning2021

BETHEL COLLEGE NEWS

All bakers and craft makers are invited to make items for 5 Places of Christmas on Saturday, December 4, at Goerz House on Bethel College campus.
Bethel College Women’s Association will again be selling baked goods , craft items, and poinsettias. Christmas candy, zwieback, peppernuts, poppyseed rolls and cinnamon rolls are always great sellers.
Please bring your items to Goerz House on Friday, December 3, from 1:30-4:30pm or Saturday, December 4 from 7:00-9:00am.
Thank you for your support of Bethel College!

Life Enrichment at Bethel College has been canceled for spring 2022, due to ongoing health and safety concerns. Organizers hope to resume Life Enrichment in fall 2022.

TODAY (Sun., Nov. 14) – KIPCOR Film Series: A Home Called Nebraska, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Emily Haverkamp, an immigration and asylum lawyer from Wichita, will lead the discussion following the screening. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors with groups of 10 or more.

Last week to view “Voices Together,” a display of the original artwork featured in the new Voices Together hymnal, through Fri., Nov. 19,in the Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Gallery hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays.

Mon., Nov. 22 – Bethel College Wind Ensemble Winter Concert, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors with groups of 10 or more.

Kauffman Museum at Bethel College seeks a visitor services coordinator: an organized, detail-oriented, social media-savvy, curious, friendly individual to work 75-100% FTE with visitors, school groups, volunteers and student staffers, and to do scheduling and internal office management. The VSC will be a part of a multitasking team of five. For the job description and to apply, visit http://www.kauffmanmuseum.org/vsc. For more information, contact Andi Andres at asa@bethelks.edu or 316-283-1612.

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

Conference Minister Heidi Regier Kreider plans to be out of the office November 15 – December 31, 2021, for a sabbatical leave approved by the WDC Executive Board. In Heidi’s absence, ministry responsibilities will be covered by other WDC staff and board, commission or committee leaders. Further details will be communicated directly to pastors, congregations and leadership groups. For more information, contact WDC at wdc@mennowdc.org or 316-283-6300.

Shalom Mennonite Church (800 East 1st Street, Newton Kansas), will host a presentation and discussion with Leonard & Antoinette Kiswangi from the Congo DRC along with Charles Buller of AIMM on Friday, November 19th at 7:00 pm. Fresh from their recent retreat with the Africa Leadership Coaching Network along the banks of the Kwilu River, they seek to re-imagine leadership among Anabaptist communities in Africa. Also planning to join us by zoom will be Bruce Yoder, Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission’s new co-director who will share an update on AIMM’s recent gathering of its international partners in Kikwit, Congo. Questions about this event can be directed to Charles Buller at 574.238.9659 or Shalom Mennonite Church at 316.283.7395

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp Announcements

The Rocky Mountain November newsletter is here! Have a look at the latest/greatest happenings here at RMMC. For this and previous newsletters, please visit the camp website and click on the “News” tab under “About Us”.

Jr. High (Jan. 21-23) & Sr. High (Feb. 18-20) Snow Camps are back for 2022! – The time has come to enjoy the beauty and chill and of RMMC in the winter once again. Come play in the snow and on the ice and then be ready to come inside for good food, fellowship and worship together. For Jr. High, Sarah Neher will be sharing on the theme “Filling Your Toolbox” of spiritual practices. Guidelines similar to the summer camping programs (i.e. upload negative COVID test within 3 days and vaccination card if had, along with inside mask wearing and optional outside mask wearing) will be in place for safety in gathering together. Visit the camp web page (www.rmmc.org) for additional details and to sign-up that you’re headed to the Colorado Rockies to start the new year!

Hesston College AnnouncementsHesston College Masterworks: Bach, Brixi, Mozart and Handel – Nov. 13,
7 p.m. at Hesston Mennonite ChurchJoin us for an evening featuring Baroque and Classical masterpieces! Bach’s cantata “Bringet dem Herrn Ehre seine,” BWV 148; Brixi’s “Organ Concerto in F,” featuring Kenneth Rodgers, organ; Mozart’s “Exsultate, Jubilate,” K165 featuring Dr. Holly Swartzendruber, soprano; and Handel’s “Hallelujah, Amen” from “Judas Maccabaeus.” Musicians include Bel Canto Singers, area artists, and professional orchestra. Program and livestream at www.hesston.edu/music
Hesston College Keyboard Festival – Nov. 20;
Finals recital at 3 p.m. at Hesston Mennonite ChurchArea piano and organ students are invited for a day filled with competition rounds and workshops. Categories open for Elementary, Junior, and Senior divisions. Schedule and registration information at www.hesston.edu/keyboardfest The finals recital is open to the public in person or at www.hesston.edu/livestream

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Open enrollment for The Corinthian Plan continues through Dec. 31. All Mennonite Church USA-affiliated congregations can enroll their eligible staff for coverage. For more information, please visit mennoniteusa.org

Three pastors from across the denomination share their experiences with intergenerational worship in this recent Mennonite Church USA Faith Formation roundtable discussion. Watch the recorded webinar here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/ff-intergenerational

As part of the Mennonite Church USA and MennoMedia’s Common Read initiative, Sara Wenger-Shenk discussed her book “Tongue-Tied,” in which she investigates the reasons why people who claim the name of Christ are so reluctant to talk about him. Watch and share the webinar recording here: mennoniteusa.org/commonread-webinar

Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of Poverty
Lane Miller laments the systems that benefit some and leave others in poverty in his prayer, “The cost of poverty,” which is part of Mennonite Church USA’s “Learn, Pray, Join” initiative. Join him in praying that we can achieve a different way of seeing and being, so that poverty can be vanquished. www.mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/the-cost-of-poverty/

Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of Poverty
Poverty is present in our communities, even when it’s hidden. In their blog, “Poverty in Harvey County, Kansas,” Hesston College’s Del and Michele Hershberger share how under-employment, natural disasters and depopulation have caused people in their community to struggle silently with poverty, often leaving those around them oblivious to their financial difficulties. Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/poverty-harvey-county.

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Severe funding cuts are hampering the functions of Kalonda Bible Institute, where many Mennonite church leaders are trained in Congo. Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for the professors and their families, who have lost their incomes, and for Bercy Mundedi, the director, who has an ardent desire to see the next generation of church leaders prepared for God’s work.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for WDC’s online book discussion this Thursday, focusing on The Land is Not Empty: Following Jesus in Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery, and pray for wisdom as we reckon with the legacy that continues to have devastating effects on Indigenous Peoples around the globe.

Announcements for November 7-14, 2021

Remember that Daylight Savings Time ends on Sunday, November 7. You will need to turn your clocks back one hour.

No Sr high Sunday School this Sunday (November 7) (Senior High Youth Group Retreat at Camp Mennoscah)

Please pray for the sr high youth and sponsors attending a fall retreat together at Camp Mennoscah November 6-7.

Faith Formation at BCMC
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
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
All other adult classes begin at 10:30 am
All Sunday school classrooms in the church will be open

This week at BCMCMonday, November 8
8—10 am    Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2—3 pm      Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
Tuesday, November 9
9—11 am Community Playschool
7 pm          Reopening Church Task Force Group—Fellowship Hall
Wednesday, November 10
8—10 am   Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2—3 pm     Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
6:45 pm     Menno Singers—Fellowship Hall
7 pm           Youth Group
7:30 pm     Chancel Choir—Sanctuary
Thursday, November 11
9-11 am     Community Playschool
11:30 am   Sojourners Sunday School Class Lunch in Fellowship Hall
6:30 pm     Chancel Bells—Room B7
7 pm          Finance Committee Meeting by Zoom
Friday, November 12
8—10 am  Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2—3 pm    Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
Saturday, November 13
9 am to 3 pm Western District Conference event in Fellowship Hall
Sunday, November 14
9:30 am     Worship Service in the Sanctuary; Music by the Chancel Bells
10:30 am   Faith Formation

Locking policy for BCMC
We will be locking doors at BCMC at 5 pm each day. If there are meetings in the church after 5 pm, the south doors (clear glass automatic doors) will be open. For Wednesday night activities, please enter the church through the south doors.

Pastor’s Renee and Nathan will be attending their last Transition into Leadership (a 2 year program through AMBS) weekend November 12-14.

BCMC COMMUNITY NEWS

October 31 Offering at BCMC: General Fund $6,373.34; MCC Meat Canning $825; Plant Fund $100; Living Stones $105; Phil Koontz Memorial $100

LOCAL SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES and NEWS

BCMC and Faith Churches are committed to providing volunteers and meals for NEW HOPE SHELTER the week of November 3 to 9. We are always in need of more volunteers. Many who have served generously in the past are aging and we need replacements. Please consider offering your time and yourself to serve those among us who are in need of shelter until New Hope can help them move on to a more secure situation. Contact Valetta Seymour if you have questions or feel ready to be a volunteer. 620-217-7536, seymour2314@gmail.com.

Life Enrichment at Bethel College has been canceled for spring 2022, due to ongoing health and safety concerns. Organizers hope to resume Life Enrichment in fall 2022.

Tues., Nov. 9 – Bethel College’s Organ Recital Series returns in-person with Shirley Sprunger King, D.M.A., 7 p.m., in the Ad Building chapel. Chapel seating will be limited, and there will be a livestream option on the big screen in Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors with groups of 10 or more.

Sun., Nov. 14 – KIPCOR Film Series: A Home Called Nebraska, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Emily Haverkamp, an immigration and asylum lawyer from Wichita, will lead the discussion following the screening. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors with groups of 10 or more.

Now in the Regier Gallery at Bethel College – “Voices Together,” a display of the original artwork featured in the new Voices Together hymnal, through Nov. 19. Gallery hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays. IN ADDITION, Rachel Epp Buller, professor of visual arts and design at Bethel and gallery and exhibit coordinator, is available to church groups who would like to visit the exhibit on an evening or weekend outside regular hours. Contact her at rebuller@bethelks.edu to set up a time between now and Nov. 19.

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

Camp Mennoscah will be at Hesston College (Nov. 8), Tabor College (Nov. 9) and Bethel College (Nov. 10) recruiting for summer staff with other Mennonite Camping Association camps. Camps are usually set up at tables near the cafeteria. We’ll be there from mid-morning through lunch. Stop by to hear more about Summer 2022!

Other Camp Mennoscah events and happenings:

We are grateful for you! We continue to get calls from volunteers and receive gifts of items off the Wish List. These items and projects help with the faith formation that happens at Camp Mennoscah. The list has more wishes and there are more projects to do. We can accommodate every group size, skill set and length of project you would like to tackle. Check out these ways to Get Involved! and support camp’s ministry. Email office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to volunteer. See the Wish List for other ways to support Camp Mennoscah!
Camp Mennoscah has openings for a part-time custodial/housekeeping position (10 hours) and a part-time office/administrative position (30 hours with benefits). Some of the office/administrative tasks can be done from home. Contact Olivia at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for more information.
Camp Mennoscah is seeking a full-time Director of Development, Marketing & Communications to lead our ongoing operational and advancement needs. This position reports directly to the Board of Directors while taking directive from the Executive Director when related to operational considerations. As a member of a small, very hands-on staff, the role is expected to be highly collaborative. This professional must embrace the mission of Camp Mennoscah, have an established background in coordinating nonprofit donation strategies, possess strong written, interpersonal, leadership and relationship building skills, and work as an independent contributor with good organization and follow-through. Most of the work will commence off campus, however some in-person time at camp is required.
This role involves organizing broad-based fundraising initiatives, advocating for Camp Mennoscah through speaking engagements, promotional materials, and social media, as well as recruiting volunteers, and building relationships with board members, donors and staff.
Our ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree, a minimum of five years of fund development experience, or equivalent experience in church relations, and a passion for Camp Mennoscah. They should also be familiar with office related applications, and other technology used for communication and social media. Experience with CampBrain and the associated donor database is a plus.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled and early submission is encouraged. Please send application materials (resume, cover letter, references and salary requirements) to campmennojobs@att.net.

For Mennonite Creation Care Network press here

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

For Mennonite Central Committee In Touch press here

Hesston College AnnouncementsPerforming Arts Scholarship Auditions – Nov. 12Know a senior interested in the arts? Invite them to schedule a visit and audition, email us at finearts@hesston.edu.
Hesston College Masterworks: Bach, Brixi, Mozart and Handel – Nov. 13,
7 p.m. at Hesston Mennonite ChurchJoin us for an evening featuring Baroque and Classical masterpieces! Bach’s cantata “Bringet dem Herrn Ehre seine,” BWV 148; Brixi’s “Organ Concerto in F,” featuring Kenneth Rodgers, organ; Mozart’s “Exsultate, Jubilate,” K165 featuring Dr. Holly Swartzendruber, soprano; and Handel’s “Hallelujah, Amen” from “Judas Maccabaeus.” Musicians include Bel Canto Singers, area artists, and professional orchestra. Program and livestream at www.hesston.edu/music
Hesston College Keyboard Festival – Nov. 20;
Finals recital at 3 p.m. at Hesston Mennonite ChurchArea piano and organ students are invited for a day filled with competition rounds and workshops. Categories open for Elementary, Junior, and Senior divisions. Schedule and registration information at www.hesston.edu/keyboardfest The finals recital is open to the public in person or at www.hesston.edu/livestream

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

Discover creative ways to engage with “Dare to Imagine,” Mennonite Church USA’s 2021 Advent at Home worship guide. Join writer Talashia Keim Yoder for a one-hour webinar on Sunday, Nov. 14 at 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT for creative ideas on how to slow down and connect with God each day during this season of anticipation. Learn about the guide here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/news/advent2021. Register for the webinar here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/adventwebinar2021.

The Mennonite Church USA Executive Board welcomed seven new board members during their first meeting of the biennium. At this meeting, the Executive Board received training and focused on agency relationships and processing resolutions. Read the news release here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/7-new-members.

The Mennonite Church USA Constituency Leaders Council met in October to discuss its role in preparing churches for the special delegate assembly, which will take place May 27-30, 2022 in Kansas City, Missouri. Read the news release here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/clc-meeting-oct21.

#BeTransformed
Joanne Gallardo, conference minister for the Indiana-Michigan Mennonite Conference, shares how the transformation that she saw in her conference inspired her own transformation in her blog, “Renewing my own vision.” Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/renewing-own-vision.

Menno Snapshots
Voices Together committee members have created a list of songs and worship resources for churches and individuals to use during the thanksgiving season. Learn more in their blog, “Thanksgiving songs and resources in Voices Together.” https://www.mennoniteusa.org/thanksgiving-voices-together

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network praises God for Sue and Wally Fahrer’s ministries of music, church-planting, pastoring and counseling in the United Kingdom, which spanned nearly four decades. Pray for them as they continue to serve God in their retirement in Liverpool, England.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC Pastors’ Day Apart on November 13, that the Holy Spirit would guide participants and presenter Sara Wenger Shenk in exploring the theme, Tongue-Tied: Is Talking About Faith a Lost Art?

Announcements for October 31-November 7, 2021

This week at BCMC
Monday, November 1
8–10 am Bethel College classes in the sanctuary
2–3 pm Bethel College class in the sanctuary
7 pm Facilities Committee Meeting in Fellowship Hall
Tuesday, November 2
9–11 am Community Playschool in playschool rooms
Wednesday November 3
8–10 am Bethel College classes in the sanctuary
2–3 pm Bethel College class in the sanctuary
6:45 pm Menno Singers in Fellowship Hall
7:30 pm Chancel Choir in Sanctuary
7 pm Senior High Youth Group–Room 24
Thursday, November 4
9–11 am Community Playschool in playschool rooms
6:30 pm Chancel Bells in Room B7
7 pm Church Board Meeting by Zoom
Friday, November 5
8–10 am Bethel College classes in the sanctuary
2–3 pm Bethel College class in the sanctuary
Saturday, November 6
Senior High Youth Group Retreat at Camp Mennoscah
Sunday, November 7–Stewardship Sunday
9:30 am Worship service in the sanctuary
10:30 am Faith Formation

BCMC COMMUNITY NEWS

INVITATION TO RING!
The BCMC Adult Bell choir will begin rehearsing on Thursday Nov. 4, to prepare for worship music on Nov. 14 and Dec. 21. New or experienced ringers that are interested in being part of this group are invited to join. Ringers will meet in Rm B7 at 6:30 pm.

Invitation to all 3rd through 8th Graders:
All are welcome to attend and join the upcoming Wednesday Evening Music-making of the Menno Singers in the Fellowship Hall from 6:45 – 7:30 pm beginning November 3. We will meet for 6 Wednesdays (November 3,10,17 and December 1, 8, 15) and participate in the Sunday morning Advent service on December 12. Come and bring friends! Virginia Mininger, Director. Mary Ann Boschmann, Accompanist/Assistant.

Chancel choir resumes on Wed, Nov 3, 7:30 pm (please note time due to Menno Ringers rehearsal time), with William Eash directing. Please contact Monica Lichti if you plan to participate. Please note that all participants will be required to wear masks.

Our speaker for peace Sunday was Mel Lehman, who works with Common Humanity. He talked about the Middle East and peace efforts there. One of the things he mentioned was exchanging Christmas cards. We have that opportunity.
We will be sending cards to Bethlehem Bible College in Bethlehem, Israel. Small or medium sized cards are recommended. Sign and then print you name. First name only or first and last initial are also fine. You may print a short message if you wish. There will be cards on a table in the gathering place for you to sign, if you wish. Address the card to “A friend in Bethlehem”.
All cards must be back in the church office by Sunday, November 14. Cards for us should be returned by Christmas.
Thank you. Witness Commission

BCMC Budget update: The church’s budget thermometer is pointing to critical. At the end of September, we had an expense over income deficit of $32,895. That’s an increase of $4,395 from August. We need your help now. Remember, we are in the final quarter and time is short. Also remember that if you have required minimum distribution (RMD), you can direct it to the church, which is a charitable organization for income tax purposes.

October 24 Offering at BCMC: General Fund $6,096.09; MCC Meat Canning $700; St Hi Youth $200; Living Stones $3,255; Women’s Fellowship $50.

Please come check out the new books that have been added to our library!
We have a combination of nonfiction books, fiction, biography and one new Everybody Book. Something for everyone. Enjoy! Tongue Tied by Sara Wenger Shenk
          What Do You Say to a Dragon? By Lexi Young Peck
Taken at Birth by Jane Blasio
          Paris Dressmaker by Kristy Cambron
The Sowing Season by Katie Powner
          When Thought and Prayers Aren’t Enough by Taylor S. Schumann
Four Winds by Kristin Hannah
           Transforming the Bible and Lives of Transgender Christians by Austin Harke
          Twilight of Democracy by Anne Applebaum
          The World: A Brief Introduction by Richard Haass

LOCAL SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES and NEWS

BETHEL COLLEGE NEWS
Fri., Oct. 29 – The “Voices Together” art exhibit, a display of the original artwork featured in the new Voices Together hymnal, opens in the Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Gallery hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays and 2-4 p.m. on Sunday. IN ADDITION, Rachel Epp Buller, professor of visual arts and design at Bethel and gallery and exhibit coordinator, is available to church groups who would like to visit the exhibit on an evening or weekend outside regular hours. Contact her at rebuller@bethelks.edu to set up a time between Oct. 29-Nov. 19.

Sun., Oct. 31 – Bethel College fall choral showcase, “Bethel Sings,” featuring the Concert Choir, Women’s Ensemble, Woven and Open Road, 4 p.m.NOTE CHANGE OF LOCATION to the Administration Building steps (Memorial Hall in case of bad weather; Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors for groups of 10 or more).

Fri., Nov. 5 – The Menno Simons Lecture Endowment, with the support of the Reimer-Boese Worship and the Arts Endowment, will bring Jan Kraybill, Kansas City, to the Bethel College campus for two lectures on the theme “This is Our Story, This is our Song: The Power of Music in Community.” “The Sound of Science” is at 11 a.m. in Memorial Hall as part of Bethel’s student convocation series. “Music and Memory, Meaning and Mission” is at 7 p.m. in Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Livestream options will be available. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors for groups of 10 or more.

Fri., Nov. 5 – Reception for Menno Simons lecturer Jan Kraybill and the “Voices Together” exhibit (in the Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College), following Kraybill’s lecture that begins at 7 p.m. in Krehbiel Auditorium, in the Fine Arts Center lobby. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors for groups of 10 or more.

Sat., Nov. 6 – Kauffman Museum first-Saturday bird walk, 8 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).

Tues., Nov. 9 – Bethel College’s Organ Recital Series returns in-person with Shirley Sprunger King, D.M.A., 7 p.m., in the Ad Building chapel. Chapel seating will be limited, and there will be a livestream option in Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors with groups of 10 or more.

Sun., Nov. 14 – KIPCOR Film Series: A Home Called Nebraska, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Emily Haverkamp, an immigration and asylum lawyer from Wichita, will lead the discussion following the screening. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors with groups of 10 or more.

KIPCOR Film Series 2021-2022: Sunday, November 14, at 2:00 PM
“A Home Called Nebraska”
Film will be live and in-person in Krehbiel Auditorium in the Luyken Fine Arts Center on the campus of Bethel College. Be sure to stay after the film for another audience discussion led by a topic expert. As always, our films are free and open to the public. “A Home Called Nebraska” tells the story of our midwestern neighbors to the north and the welcome, acceptance and friendship they extended to refugees in 2020 – all during a time of national anxiety and open bigotry. Thanks to many Nebraskans’ generosity, these refugees who escaped war, torture and persecution continue to thrive and succeed today.
PLEASE NOTE that we will continue to follow Bethel College’s COVID-19 guidelines, which currently require everyone to wear masks indoors for groups of 10 or more, regardless of vaccination status. You can find additional information HERE.

Sunflower Performing Arts: Sunflower Soirée – Oct. 31, 3 p.m. at Hesston Mennonite Church. Formerly known as Hesston-Bethel Performing Arts, Sunflower Performing Arts series will open with the first-ever Sunflower Soirée, a concert of local and regional artists that also promotes the season ahead and kicks off the organization’s annual patron drive. Free of charge, this event will feature the following artists: pianist Karen Schlabaugh; The Sunflower Trio; flautists Kristin Shaffer and Kenna Graber; guitarists Howard Glanton and Excier Rodriguez; soprano Holly Swartzendruber and pianist Karen Unruh; and musicians Ken Rodgers and Russell Adrian. Sunflower Performing Arts season tickets can be purchased or picked up at the concert. Tax-deductible donations can also be made to Sunflower Performing Arts during this time. Light refreshments will be served. Audience members are required to wear masks while inside the church, and the artists will wear masks when not performing. www.hesston.edu/livestream

CAMP MENNOSCAH NEWS

Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat is scheduled for November 5-7, at Camp Mennoscah! Register at www.campmennoscah.org! There is only one Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat. Lodging will be in the Retreat Center and cropping/crafting will be in the Main Camp dining hall. Space heaters will be available for both areas since the repairs for the furnaces will not be complete by the beginning of November. Masks encouraged when inside.

Cleaning House! Camp Mennoscah has cleared out years of accumulated objects from the two maintenance sheds. The items are now in front of the maintenance shed. We’re working to find a better place for them, but it will take some time. Keep your eyes open! A small number of items will be sold.

Other events and happenings:

Camp Mennoscah will be recruiting for 2022 summer staff on Nov. 8 at Hesston, Nov. 9 at Tabor, and November 10 at Bethel College with other Mennonite Camping Association camps. Tables are usually near the cafeteria doors. We’ll be there from mid-morning through lunch.
We are grateful for you! We continue to get calls from volunteers and receive gifts of items off the Wish List. These items and projects help with the faith formation that happens at Camp Mennoscah. The list has more wishes and there are more projects to do. We can accommodate every group size, skill set and length of project you would like to tackle. Check out these ways to Get Involved! and support camp’s ministry. Email office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to volunteer. See the Wish List for other ways to support Camp Mennoscah!
Camp Mennoscah has openings for a part-time custodial/housekeeping position (10 hours) and a part-time office/administrative position (30 hours with benefits). Some of the office/administrative tasks can be done from home. Contact Olivia at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for more information.
Camp Mennoscah is seeking a full-time Director of Development, Marketing & Communications to lead our ongoing operational and advancement needs. This position reports directly to the Board of Directors while taking directive from the Executive Director when related to operational considerations. As a member of a small, very hands-on staff, the role is expected to be highly collaborative. This professional must embrace the mission of Camp Mennoscah, have an established background in coordinating nonprofit donation strategies, possess strong written, interpersonal, leadership and relationship building skills, and work as an independent contributor with good organization and follow-through. Most of the work will commence off campus, however some in-person time at camp is required. This role involves organizing broad-based fundraising initiatives, advocating for Camp Mennoscah through speaking engagements, promotional materials, and social media, as well as recruiting volunteers, and building relationships with board members, donors and staff. Our ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree, a minimum of five years of fund development experience, or equivalent experience in church relations, and a passion for Camp Mennoscah. They should also be familiar with office related applications, and other technology used for communication and social media. Experience with CampBrain and the associated donor database is a plus. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled and early submission is encouraged. Please send application materials (resume, cover letter, references and salary requirements) to campmennojobs@att.net.

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!

Mennonite Central Committee Announcements

NEW Seek discipleship program for young adults: Seek is a new six-month intentional discipleship program from MCC which encourages young adults (18-20 years of age) to learn more deeply what it means to be an Anabaptist follower of Jesus. The program will include multiple discipleship and service opportunities with MCC partners in Palestine and Israel and Jordan. The Seek program begins in January 2022 and takes place in Palestine and Israel. To learn more and apply for the Seek program, visit mcc.org/seek.

SALT applications are now open! Are you interested in learning a new language, visiting a new country, and joining a new community abroad? SALT applications are now open! Through SALT (young adults age 18-30), practice your skills in education, peace building, agriculture, community health care and more while connecting with the global Anabaptist community of faith. For more information, visit mcc.org/SALT or contact Abby Endashaw, Young Adult Programs Coordinator at MCC Central States abbyendashaw@mcc.org.

MCC seeking SWAP Location Coordinators in Hindman, Kentucky: MCC Appalachia’s SWAP (Sharing With Appalachian People) program coordinates week-long service opportunities for young people and adults, to provide housing repair for low-income individuals and families. The Hindman Location Coordinators will plan and direct all aspects of the SWAP ministry in Hindman, Kentucky. MCC is also looking to connect with other ministries related to economic development and/or food security and would welcome location coordinators with these interests and backgrounds. Apply online for this opening by December 10 at mcc.org/swap-hindman-location-coordinators. For more information contact Amber Falcón at 574-534-4133 or AmberFalcon@mcc.org.

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Mennonite Church USA is once again offering its free Advent at Home devotional. Written by Talashia Keim Yoder, pastor of Christian Formation at College Mennonite Church, Goshen, Indiana, the 2021 guide follows the theme of Leader magazine and is appropriate for all ages. Download your copy here. https://www.mennoniteusa.org/adventathome

If your family has recently experienced a birth, marriage or death, Mennonite Church USA (MC USA) Archives would like to preserve this information for free, through the new vital records form on the MC USA Archives website. Read more about how you can help the Archives memorialize your family history here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/new/vital-records-form

Menno Snapshots
It can be easy for churches to self-segregate based on age, but when a church intentionally seeks out intergenerational faith formation, everyone benefits from richness that age diversity brings. Carrie Mast, in her blog “Faith for all — at the same time,” shares how her congregation has successfully engaged in intergenerational faith formation. Read her story here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/faith-for-all

Menno Snapshots
When choosing which worship resources to include in the new hymnal, the Voices Together team chose to include many resources from before the Reformation. Learn why including these resources was important to the team and which resources predate the Reformation in Sarah Kathleen Johnson and Carl Bear’s blog, “Singing with the early and medieval church through ‘Voices Together.’” https://www.mennoniteusa.org/medieval-through-voicestogether Menno Snapshots
When high school seniors graduate and head off to college, it can be difficult for their home church to stay connected with them. Andrea Wall, in her blog “Staying connected to your college students,” discusses some methods that she has used to stay connected with the college students from her congregation. https://www.mennoniteusa.org/staying-connected-students

#BeTransformed
In his blog, “Transforming water,” Scott Hartman, Mennonite Church USA director of event planning, ponders the relationship between water’s transforming powers and his own ability to transform and be transformed throughout his faith formation journey. Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/transforming-water

Would you like to receive monthly bulletin announcements from Mennonite Church USA? Get links to the latest news, blogs and resources by subscribing here. https://www.mennoniteusa.org/subscribe-bulletin

Mennonite World Conference Info press here

Mennonite Mission Network News from Around the World press here

Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Jaden Hostetter, who is serving with Mennonite Mission Network and VMMissions, has started a ceramic studio for refugees who have been welcomed by the Quito Mennonite Church in Ecuador. Pray that, through creating art, participants will a find a space of healing and a place to build community.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for the generous financial gifts and prayers of WDC congregations and members to support conference ministries of sustaining ministers, resourcing congregations and encouraging church planting.

Announcements for October 24-31, 2021

This week at BCMC
Monday, October 25
8 to10 am Bethel College classes in the sanctuary
11 am Inurnment Service for Douglas Schmidt with only family present
2 to 3 pm Bethel College class in the sanctuary
Tuesday, October 26
9 to11 am Community Playschool in playschool rooms
Wednesday October 27
8 to 10 am Bethel College classes in the sanctuary
2 to 3 pm Bethel College class in the sanctuary
7 pm Senior High Youth Group–Room 24
7 pm Memorial service for Martha Graber in Sanctuary
Thursday, October 28
2 pm Hospitality Commission, Fellowship Hall
Friday, October 29
8 to 10 am Bethel College classes in the sanctuary
2 to 3 pm Bethel College class in the sanctuary
Sunday, October 31
9:30 am Worship service in the sanctuary
10:30 am Faith formation

Staff schedules: Custodian Mike Crawford will be on vacation Oct. 25-31

BCMC COMMUNITY NEWS

There will be a Memorial Service for Martha Graber Wednesday Oct 27, 7 pm, in the BCMC Sanctuary.

Thank you to everyone who supported the sr high youth group in their October 10th, Jazz and Charcuterie fundraiser. Together we raised over $3,000 for their upcoming Outdoor Service Trip this summer.

The Staff Congregation Relations Committee is pleased to report that the role of Music Coordinator at BCMC has been filled. Going forward, Barbara Thiesen and Verlene Garber will be sharing the role as Music Co-Coordinators at BCMC. We appreciate their willingness to share their gifts with BCMC in this way.

BCMC 2021 Directory Correction
Please make the following correction in your 2021 BCMC Directory

Richard Friesen Email: richard.friesen@cox.net

The exhibit in the Gathering Place is a tribute to John Hiebert. John worked for 50 years as the artistic designer for publications, first for the General Conference and then Mennonite Church USA. He was involved in numerous design projects beyond the scope of church work. He also designed bulletin covers and booklets for BCMC. We want to recognize his work and pay tribute to his “magical” design skills. — The Visual Arts Committee

LOCAL SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES and NEWS

COPERNICUS & GALILEO: BRIDGING SCIENCE AND FAITHBrent Hampton, family member of Zona and Omer Galle, invites everyone to a three part presentation via Zoom Webinar, on Oct 27, Nov 3, and Nov 10 at 6:00 PM CST sponsored by Brenham Presbyterian Church, with generous funding from the Eli Lilly Foundation. This presentation is free for all. Click here for more information and a zoom link for this webinar.

Newton Et Cetera Shop is getting ready for the holidays! Our Christmas Shop will open on Wednesday, November 3, and we’ll continue putting out new holiday items throughout the remainder of the season. Please consider decorating your home or workplace with secondhand decor! We also have many gift items for sale during the holidays, including some extra special items such a diamond ring, local railroad memorabilia, and vintage German, Italian and American Christmas decor. If the holidays have you in a sharing mood, you might consider purchasing $10 Newton Et Cetera Shop gift cards for one of our many community partners! We regularly donate $10 gift cards to Safehope, Newton USD 373, New Hope Shelter, Salvation Army, Peace Connections, EmberHope, Mirror, and New Jerusalem Missions. If you’d like to give our gift cards to any of those organizations, you can deliver them yourself or leave them with us to deliver. These gift cards support community members in urgent need AND support the mission and vision of the Newton Et Cetera Shop!
If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer at the Shop, we’re holding a new volunteer orientations on Thurs. 11/11/21 6-7 PM. Join us to learn more about volunteering at our shop!

Local author Brian D. Stucky has compiled a book of birth names recorded in the church records of Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church, titled “Alexanderwohl Names 1622-2020.” Find an info sheet near the church mailboxes.

BETHEL COLLEGE NEWS

Thurs., Oct. 28 – Bethel College Chamber Orchestra Halloween concert, 7:30 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors for groups of 10 or more.

Fri., Oct. 29 – The “Voices Together” art exhibit, a display of the original artwork featured in the new Voices Together hymnal, opens in the Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Gallery hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays and 2-4 p.m. on Sunday. IN ADDITION, Rachel Epp Buller, professor of visual arts and design at Bethel and gallery and exhibit coordinator, is available to church groups who would like to visit the exhibit on an evening or weekend outside regular hours. Contact her at rebuller@bethelks.edu to set up a time between Oct. 29-Nov. 19.

Sun., Oct. 31 – Bethel College fall choral showcase, “Bethel Sings,” featuring the Concert Choir, Women’s Ensemble, Woven and Open Road, 4 p.m.NOTE CHANGE OF LOCATION to the Administration Building steps (Memorial Hall in case of bad weather; Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors for groups of 10 or more).

Fri., Nov. 5 – The Menno Simons Lecture Endowment, with the support of the Reimer-Boese Worship and the Arts Endowment, will bring Jan Kraybill, Kansas City, to the Bethel College campus for two lectures on the theme “This is Our Story, This is our Song: The Power of Music in Community.” “The Sound of Science” is at 11 a.m. in Memorial Hall as part of Bethel’s student convocation series. “Music and Memory, Meaning and Mission” is at 7 p.m. in Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Livestream options will be available. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors for groups of 10 or more.

Fri., Nov. 5 – Reception for Menno Simons lecturer Jan Kraybill and the “Voices Together” exhibit (in the Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College), following Kraybill’s lecture that begins at 7 p.m. in Krehbiel Auditorium, in the Fine Arts Center lobby. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors for groups of 10 or more.

Tues., Nov. 9 – Bethel College’s Organ Recital Series returns in-person with Shirley Sprunger King, D.M.A., 7 p.m., in the Ad Building chapel. Chapel seating will be limited, and there will be a livestream option in Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors for groups of 10 or more.

KIPCOR Film Series 2021-2022: Sunday, November 14, at 2:00 PM
“A Home Called Nebraska”
Film will be live and in-person in Krehbiel Auditorium in the Luyken Fine Arts Center on the campus of Bethel College. Be sure to stay after the film for another audience discussion led by a topic expert. As always, our films are free and open to the public.
“A Home Called Nebraska” tells the story of our midwestern neighbors to the north and the welcome, acceptance and friendship they extended to refugees in 2020 – all during a time of national anxiety and open bigotry. Thanks to many Nebraskans’ generosity, these refugees who escaped war, torture and persecution continue to thrive and succeed today.
PLEASE NOTE that we will continue to follow Bethel College’s COVID-19 guidelines, which currently require everyone to wear masks indoors for groups of 10 or more, regardless of vaccination status. You can find additional information HERE.

CAMP MENNOSCAH NEWS

Camp Mennoscah will be recruiting for 2022 summer staff on Nov. 8 at Hesston, Nov. 9 at Tabor, and November 10 at Bethel College with other Mennonite Camping Association camps. Tables are usually near the cafeteria doors. We’ll be there from mid-morning through lunch.
The brush piles from the tree trimming extravaganza this past spring are ready to burn! Get a group together and schedule a day to burn (wind speed permitting). Contact Camp Mennoscah at office@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.
Camp Mennoscah has openings for a part-time custodial/housekeeping position (10 hours) and a part-time office/administrative position (30 hours with benefits). Some of the office/administrative tasks can be done from home. Contact Olivia at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for more information.
Thank you for granting wishes! We are grateful for the recent donations of items off the Wish List. The list has more wishes and there are more projects to do. We can accommodate every group size, skill set and length of project you would like to tackle. Check out these ways to Get Involved! Email office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to volunteer. See the Wish List for other ways to support Camp Mennoscah!

Mennonite Disaster Service Region 3 Annual Meeting information click here

The Rocky Mountain October newsletter is here! Have a look at the latest/greatest happenings here at RMMC. For this and previous newsletters, please visit the camp website and click on the “News” tab under “About Us”.

Mennonite Men announcements click here

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website at https://mennowdc.org/ to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation! See especially:

Announcements:

Stories:

Hablemos de la Iglesia. Borrón y… Cuenta Nueva. by Sandra Montes Martinez

Mennonite Central Committee has a variety of positions open for those called to be the hands and feet of God in a global context. We hope you will prayerfully consider the following service opportunities.

Seek Discipleship Program – Jordan, Palestine and Israel – Seek is a new six-month intentional discipleship program from MCC which encourages young adults (18-20 years of age) to deeply learn what it means to be an Anabaptist follower of Jesus. The program will include multiple discipleship and service opportunities with MCC partners. To learn more and apply for the Seek program, visit mcc.org/seek.

International Program Safety and Security HR Specialist – MCC seeks an International Program Safety and Security HR Specialist with experience in safety and security management, and at least 1 year experience in insecure environments. Should be committed to the Biblical call to be a peacemaker by seeking and promoting nonviolent solutions to conflict and oppression.

External Grants Coordinator – Lebanon, Syria & Iraq – MCC seeks an External Grants Coordinator who will provide support for humanitarian assistance and other externally funded projects in Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq that MCC is undertaking as a result of the ongoing needs in the region.

Program Coordinator – Lebanon, Syria & Iraq – MCC seeks a Program Coordinator. This role, based in Beirut, is tasked with managing the program’s Planning, Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting (PMER) for projects in Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq.

For more information about our current openings, including those listed here, please visit mcc.org/serve.

HESSTON COLLEGE NEWS

Bel Canto Singers Fall Concert: Deep Peace – Oct. 24, 2 p.m. at Hesston Mennonite Church. The program is inspired by this year’s theme verse at Hesston College, Ephesians 4:2-3, in which Paul calls Christians to lift each other up in community. www.hesston.edu/livestream

Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level Announcement click here
Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond click here
Mennonite Mission Network Mustard Seeds click here

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Anna Alderfer, Bowen Dick-Burkey, Dawson Duerksen, Brooke Nafziger, and Service Adventure unit leaders, Barry and Erika Kreider, who are settling into community living and extending the ministries of host congregation, Albuquerque (New Mexico) Mennonite Church. Pray for them as they work with children and youth, people without homes, Habitat for Humanity, a community art center, and an urban farm.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for the WDC Executive Board as they meet this week, to further WDC’s mission of empowering congregations to Witness and invite others to faith in Christ, Dwell in just and loving relationships, and Connect to God’s mission

Announcements for October 3-10, 2021

October 3 is Bethel College Fall Fest Sunday. This year there will be no worship service on October 3 at BCMC. There will be a worship service at the Bethel College Memorial Hall at 10 a.m. Everyone is welcome to attend. The service will also be live-streamed.
Here is the link for Fall Fest Worship: https://youtu.be/CNRbAKxtx44.
It will be set to go live on Sunday, October 3 at 10am.

The next week at BCMC Monday, October 4
8 am to 10 am Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2 pm to 3 pm    Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
Tuesday, October 5
9 to 11 am Community Playschool in church basement
Wednesday, October 6
8 am to 10 am Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2 pm to 3 pm    Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
7 pm   Wednesday Night Club
7 pm   Youth Group in Room 24
Thursday, October 7
9-11 am Community Playschool
7 pm Church Board Meeting by Zoom
Friday, October 8
8 am to 10 am  Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2 pm to 3 pm    Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
Saturday, October 9–No events in church
Sunday, October 10
9:30 am Worship Service
10:30 am Faith Formation

Staff Absence: Monica Lichti will be on vacation from October 4-15. During this time the office will be closed on Mondays and open mornings only Tuesday through Friday.

As Anabaptists, we believe the church is a “priesthood of all believers.” Exercise your “priestly” function by expressing your appreciation and gratitude to all who are involved in our congregation for what they do. During this time of health and safety protocols, national tensions, and difficult issues in the church, everyone is under more stress. This is especially true for our pastors, employees, those in leadership, and others. Expressions of care and appreciation for each other can strengthen our bond and give each of us strength to reach out to others. Pray for each other. Names of those in leadership positions are listed in the BCMC Directory.
– Deacons Commission

2021 BCMC Directory
The 2021 BCMC Directory is in your mailboxes here at the church.
Add to it this new phone number for Arlo Kasper. 620-951-1800

Exploring the Parables…is our worship focus through Nov 14. If you’d like to read ahead in preparation for worship, here’s where we are headed:

Oct 10 (World Communion): Matthew 22:1-14 – The wedding banquet
Oct 17: Luke 10:25-37 – The Good Samaritan
Oct 24: Luke 15:11-32 – The Prodigal Son
Oct 31: Luke 16:19-31 – The rich man and Lazarus
Nov 7: Matt. 13:44-46 – Treasure hidden in a field; The pearl of great price
Nov 14: Matthew 13:33 – The Leaven

The Staff Congregation Relations Committee extends a heartfelt THANK YOU to Barbara Thiesen in recognition of her years of service to the congregation in her role as Music Coordinator. Barbara has decided to step down from this role effective October 31, 2021. Her work in this role will be greatly missed.

If you or someone you know might be interested in filling the role of Music Coordinator for the congregation, please reach out to Heather Zerger (SCRC Chair) or Dawn Yoder Harms. Generally, duties include scheduling pianists and organists for Sunday worship, coordinating (but not directing) youth and adult bell and vocal choirs, caring for the church’s musical instruments, scheduling special musicians as needed, and other responsibilities. A copy of the current job description is available from the Church Office or from Dawn or Heather. A small monthly stipend is included in the annual budget for this position.

Jazz and Charcuterie on the Lawn
The Sr High Youth Group will be hosting an evening of Jazz and Charcuterie on the Lawn on October 10th to raise funds for their 2022 Summer Trip. We invite you to enjoy an hour of Jazz music by Icy Tea Jazz (a jazz trio) from 5:30-6:30pm (bring your own chairs or blankets to sit on) while enjoying desserts and flavored lemonade. The October 10th event will be outside on the lawn of the Bethel College Goerz House (2512 College Ave). Feel free to invite friends, family, college host students, or others to this event!
If you cannot stay for the jazz music but ordered a charcuterie box, you may pick it up on October 10th between 5-7 pm.

It’s time to start thinking about pumpkins and bonfires! Faith Formation Commission would like to invite families and mentor/mentee pairs to spend some time at P&M Pumpkin Patch on October 17. We have the Cedar campfire site reserved from 4:00-7:00 pm. Hot dogs and smore’s will be provided. Please email Mary Ellen Hodge at hodge_mar@yahoo.com and give her the contact person’s name and the number of people in your party by October 10. You will be asked to give your name at the admissions window when you arrive.

Budget update
As of the end of August 2021, expenses exceed contributions by $28,500.69. Contributions received stand at 57% of the amount expected for the year, and expenses are at 63% of the budget. Please keep this information in mind as we begin the final third of the year.

Everence to host informative webinars in October
Beginning Tuesday, Oct. 5, Everence Financial^® will host three informative webinars. Topics include Making Medicare an easy step, Maximizing your year-end giving and Estate planning basics. The online events are free. To register, or for more information, visit www.everence.com/kansas or contact the Everence office at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294, or central.kansas@everence.com.
Advisory services offered through Concourse Financial Group Advisors, a division of Concourse Financial Group Securities, a Registered Investment Advisor. Securities offered through Concourse Financial Group Securities, a registered broker-dealer and member of FINRA and SIPC. Investments and other products are not NCUA or otherwise federally insured, may involve loss of principal and have no credit union guarantee.
Products and services offered through Everence Trust Company and other Everence entities are independent of and are not guaranteed or endorsed by Concourse Financial Group Securities,
or its affiliates.

Bethel College Announcements
The 2021 Worship and the Arts Symposium at Bethel College, “Joining Voices Together,” originally scheduled for Nov. 5-8, has been postponed due to COVID precautions. The symposium will be rescheduled for fall 2022, with a new date to be announced soon. The “Voices Together” art exhibition will still take place as planned, with original artwork from the Voices Together hymnal on display Oct. 29-Nov. 19 in the Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center on campus.

Weds., Oct. 6 – Bethel College Wind Ensemble concert, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors regardless of vaccination status.

In the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College: “Roots and Wings: Our Gift from Mother Nature,” a group exhibition by the Springdale Art & Nature Center of Halstead, featuring sculpture by Beth Vannatta, through Oct. 22. Gallery hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Fri., Sun, 2-4 p.m. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors regardless of vaccination status.

Kidron Bethel Village in North Newton and Friends of Kidron will host its annual Country Breakfast on Saturday, October 2, from 7:30 to 9 a.m. This year’s event will be a drive-thru with to-go pick up for the menu of breakfast burritos and fruit. Pull up to the front door at 3001 Ivy Drive and breakfast will be delivered to your vehicle! Free will donations will support Friends of Kidron and the Health Care Benevolent Fund.

Kauffman Museum Living Endowment Dinner
Please SAVE the DATE for the KAUFFMAN MUSEUM annual LIVING ENDOWMENT DINNER
on SATURDAY, OCT. 23.
• Due to continued health concerns associated with the Delta variant we will host a pick-up/drive-by/delivered fall fundraising meal.
• The museum will again collaborate with Elderslie Farm of Kechi to bring you a locally sourced meal.
• In anticipation of the spring museum exhibit celebrating 125 years of a museum on the Bethel College campus (now Kauffman Museum!), the dinner will reflect menus of 1896 when the museum first opened.
• Reservations = $125 per person. (Get it?)
• Watch for an invitation in the United States mail and instructions for online reservations later in September.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS, TELL YOUR FRIENDS, AND PLAN TO MAKE RESERVATIONS!

Mennonite Central Committee in North Newton currently has over 800 sets of comforter tops and backs that need to be tied, as well as kits of fabric that can be sewn into more tops. MCC’s partners all around the world value these handmade comforters as useful, beautiful and tangible expressions of love. If you or your sewing group would be interested in tying or sewing for MCC, or if you have questions and are curious about how to make a comforter, please contact Kate Mast at the MCC Material Resources Center at katemast@mcc.org, or 316-283-2720.

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website at https://mennowdc.org/ to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation! See especially:

Announcements:
–2021 Bethel College Worship and Arts Symposium Postponed
–Resourcing Event for WDC Ministers -Nov 13
–WDC Final Thursday Book Discussion -Oct 28
–Annual IBA Benefit Burrito Sale Details
–WDC Prayer Requests for October 2021
–WDC Hope Fund
–Mennonite Church USA Announcements
–Mennonite Education Agency October Prayer Requests

Stories:
–What does it mean to be a Conference? by Heidi Regier Kreider

Come hear the Paradizo Choir of Amani Community Church, Wichita, at Hesston Mennonite Church on Sunday, October 10, 4 pm. The choir is sharing the Benefit Concert for the Amani Building Fund toward an initial goal of raising $50,000. Translation of Swahili-language songs will be projected in English. YouTube videos of the Choir may be found under Amani Community Church. See the poster on the church bulletin board.

Fall 2021 issue of Intersections: MCC Theory and Practice Quarterly is available now on-line here and here. The issue’s theme is “MCC and National Socialism.” Typical issues of Intersections examine MCC’s current work. In contrast, this fall 2021 issue of Intersections has an historical focus, with twelve historians from Canada, the U.S., Germany, France, and the Netherlands examining different aspects of how MCC’s humanitarian efforts before, during, and after the Second World War were entangled with National Socialism and its legacy. As the articles in this issue reflect, this history was complicated, ambiguous, and difficult.
The downloadable pdf of this issue can be found here.
As always, we welcome any feedback you have about this or other issues of Intersections! We have a new email address where your thoughts, affirmations, critiques, and counsel can be sent: intersections@mcc.org. Thanks for being a loyal reader of Intersections!
Warm regards, Alain Epp Weaver

Camp Mennoscah Announcements
Summer is practically tomorrow (plus 8 months)! Camp Mennoscah will be recruiting for 2022 summer staff on Nov. 8 at Hesston, Nov. 9 at Tabor, and November 10 at Bethel College with other Mennonite Camping Association camps. Tables are usually outside or near the cafeteria. We’ll be there from mid-morning through lunch.

Other events and happenings:

Fall Fun Volunteer Day! Saturday, October 9, is a Work & Play Day for all ages. Come with your friends, your kids or grandkids and even your own work group! Let us know you’re coming by Oct. 6 so we have the best projects for your skills at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org. Please bring your water bottle and a sack lunch. Mask and distance at your own comfort level. Meet at the maintenance shed by the red apartment at 8:30am. Stick around afterwards for one last kayak or canoe ride or a hike around camp!
The dam at Camp Mennoscah will be removed on October 17! The fun will begin at approximately 2pm. All are welcome to help with removing and cleaning the boards or simply to watch. The dam will be removed whatever the weather, unless deemed dangerous. Contact Camp Mennoscah if you have questions.
Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat, November 5-7, at Camp Mennoscah! Register at www.campmennoscah.org! There is only one Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat. Lodging will be in the Retreat Center and cropping/crafting will be in the Main Camp dining hall. Space heaters will be available for both areas since the repairs for the furnaces will not be complete by the beginning of November. Fees for the Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat have increased to $150 to meet higher costs and the use of multiple facilities. There is an option to receive up to $25 in scholarship funds per person as part of the registration process.
Thank you for granting wishes! We are grateful for the recent donations of items off the Wish List. Thank you! The list has more wishes and there are more projects to do. We can accommodate every group size, skill set and length of project you would like to tackle. Check out these ways to Get Involved! Email office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to volunteer. See the Wish List for other ways to support Camp Mennoscah!
We need help mowing and burning brush piles! The grass that is usually cut short is doing its best to compete with the tallgrass prairie in height. Volunteer to mow (with a riding lawn mower) for whatever length of time you can offer or grab a string trimmer to chase back those wily weeds. Or get a group together and schedule a day to burn (wind speed permitting) –we’ll keep trying until a day works! Contact Camp Mennoscah at office@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.
Camp Mennoscah has openings for a part-time custodial/housekeeping position (10 hours) and a part-time office/administrative position (30 hours with benefits). Some of the office/administrative tasks can be done from home. Contact Olivia at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for more information.
Camp Mennoscah is seeking a full-time Director of Development, Marketing & Communications to lead our ongoing operational and advancement needs. This position reports directly to the Board of Directors while taking directive from the Executive Director when related to operational considerations. As a member of a small, very hands-on staff, the role is expected to be highly collaborative. This professional must embrace the mission of Camp Mennoscah, have an established background in coordinating nonprofit donation strategies, possess strong written, interpersonal, leadership and relationship building skills, and work as an independent contributor with good organization and follow-through. Most of the work will commence off campus, however some in-person time at camp is required.
This role involves organizing broad-based fundraising initiatives, advocating for Camp Mennoscah through speaking engagements, promotional materials, and social media, as well as recruiting volunteers, and building relationships with board members, donors and staff.
Our ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree, a minimum of five years of fund development experience, or equivalent experience in church relations, and a passion for Camp Mennoscah. They should also be familiar with office related applications, and other technology used for communication and social media. Experience with CampBrain and the associated donor database is a plus.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled and early submission is encouraged. Please send application materials (resume, cover letter, references and salary requirements) to campmennojobs@att.net.

For Mennonite Mission Network Service Adventure press here

For Mennonite Creation Care Network Newsletter press here

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Hesston College Events

     Fall Cultures Fair – October 4, 6:00 p.m.
Hesston Mennonite Church Community Center
The campus boasts students from 25 countries and the United States – many of whom will be sharing their hearts through food, games, dance, vocal and
instrumental music. This is a family friendly event and open to the public.DyckArboretum 40th Anniversary Celebration Picnic  – October 10, 4:00 p.m .
  177 W. Hickory St., Hesston
Come celebrate 40 years of the Dyck Arboretum! BBQ-style meal provided,
including the Dyck Family Birthday Banana Cake with Ice Cream, music by The
Flannelbacks, family portraits available and one free tree per household.

Herm and Vince Tour Concert – October 16, 6:00 p.m.
Dyck Arboretum of the Plains
Sponsored by Hesston College. Free outdoor concert (donations welcomed). Bring a lawn chair.

Bel Canto Singers Fall Concert – October 24, 2:00 p.m.
Hesston Mennonite Church

Music Department Recital – October 28, 4:00 p.m.
Hesston Mennonite Church

Sunflower Performing Arts: Sunflower Soiree – October 31, 3:00 p.m.
Hesston Mennonite Church

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Alisha, Josh and Asher (5) Garber of Mennonite Mission Network have moved into the newly renovated Barcelona Anabaptist Center, which now houses 16 residents. Pray that the center will encourage solidarity in their neighborhood and that the Garbers will model servant leadership in Catalonia (a region where allegiance to Spain vies with voices calling for independence).

Mennonite Church USA
Let your voice be heard by taking part in our denomination-wide survey. Your responses will help Mennonite Church USA better serve the needs of its members. Take the survey here. MennoniteUSA.org/member-survey En español: MennoniteUSA.org/member-survey-espanol [Download slide here]

Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of Poverty
Mennonite Church USA (MC USA) invites you to engage in its “Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of Poverty” initiative. Throughout September and October, MC USA is offering stories, blogs, prayers and resources to encourage you to learn about the impact of poverty, to pray for economic justice and to join in mutual aid and advocacy work. Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/news/lpj-poverty

Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of Poverty
To kick off Mennonite Church USA’s “Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of Poverty” initiative, Bert Newton asks, “Who owns the land?” From a theological perspective, Newton dives into God’s ownership of the land and what that should mean for housing equality. Read his blog here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/owns-land

Menno Snapshots
In the wake of the tragic earthquake that hit Haiti and the traumatic civil and political distress in Afghanistan, you are invited to join Mennonite Church USA in prayer for all people who call these countries home. Read the prayer for Haiti and Afghanistan here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/prayer-haiti-afghanistan

Announcements for September 26-October 3, 2021

The next week at BCMC
Monday, September 27
8 am to 10 am Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
10 am                 Library Committee—Room 14
2 pm to 3 pm    Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
Tuesday, September 28
9-11 am Community Playschool
7 pm       Abuse Prevention and Reconciliation Committee
Wednesday, September 29
8 am to 10 am Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2 pm to 3 pm    Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
7 pm   Wednesday Night Club
7 pm   Youth Group
Thursday, September 30
9-11 am Community Playschool
Friday, October 1
8 am to 10 am  Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2 pm to 3 pm    Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
Saturday, October 2—Fall Fest at Bethel College
Sunday, October 3
10:00 am   Fall Fest Worship Service at Bethel College Memorial Hall— All are welcome to attend
Service will also be live-streamed on the Bethel College YouTube Channel
There will be no service at BCMC on October 3

October 3 is Bethel College Fall Fest Sunday. This year there will be no worship service on October 3 at BCMC. There will be a worship service at the Bethel College Memorial Hall at 10 a.m. Everyone is welcome to attend. The service will also be live-streamed.
Here is the link for Fall Fest Worship: https://youtu.be/CNRbAKxtx44. It will be ready to view on Sunday, October 3 at 10 am.

Jazz and Charcuterie on the Lawn

The Sr High Youth Group will be hosting an evening of Jazz and Charcuterie on the Lawn on October 10th to raise funds for their 2022 Summer Trip. We invite you to enjoy an hour of Jazz music by Icy Tea Jazz (a jazz trio) from 5:30-6:30pm (bring your own chairs or blankets to sit on) while enjoying desserts and flavored lemonade. Pre-ordered charcuterie boxes will also be served beginning at 5:00 pm. Charcuterie boxes can feed 2 people a lite meal or fill one hungry person! The event itself will be outside on the lawn of the Bethel College Goerz House (2512 College Ave). Feel free to invite friends, family, college host students, or others to this event!

Please fill out this form by September 30th to reserve your charcuterie box (or boxes) for this fun event! Each box costs $50 and will need to be paid for by September 30th by dropping a check off in the BCMC church office (write sr high youth group in the memo line) or by making an online donation on the Bethel College Mennonite Church website. You can make your online donation here and click on Sr High Youth Group. Unpaid boxes will not be ordered.

Sr high youth will be in the back of the sanctuary after worship on September 19th and September 26th if you would like to order your box in person.

Can’t stay for the jazz music but still want a charcuterie box to-go?! Feel free to still order one that can be picked up on October 10th between 5-7pm.

Offering at BCMC for September 19: General Fund $12,866; Caring Fund $1,000; Living Stones $443.33; Peace Garden $2,000; Women’s Fellowship $150.

If you like to bake…..
Pastor Renee is looking for food goodies for college students this semester! There are two opportunities to give: The Red Tenants Bible study on Wednesday evenings or the Koininia Sunday School class on Sunday mornings. If you are interested in baking some goodies for either of these occasions, please reach out to Renee at Renee@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org.

Safe Sanctuary Training will be offered 1 more time for volunteers working with children and youth (Sunday school teachers, sponsors, club leaders, and mentors): Sunday, September 26th at 7pm on zoom (Please email Renee for a link). While this 1 hour training is required for all people working with children and youth each year, others from BCMC are invited to attend this training as well to learn more about abuse prevention and how to model good boundaries in our relationships with one another.

Wichita Pride Parade
BCMC will be participating in the Wichita Pride Parade hosted by Wichita Pride on Sunday, September 26 at 1:00 pm. The Wichita Pride Parade follows an approximate one-mile route on Main Street from the Historic Sedgwick County Courthouse to Douglas Street, right on Douglas Street to Century II. If you are interested in participating, meet at the BCMC east parking lot at 12:00 for carpooling options, or meet at the Historic Sedgwick County Courthouse in Wichita at 12:45. This parade is part of a wider weekend of events in Wichita celebrating LGBTQ+ communities. If you would like more information about the entire schedule of events, go to wichitapride.org. If you plan on participating in the parade, an email, text, or phone call to Nathan Koontz would be helpful but not necessary

BAKERS AND CRAFTERS NEEED! Help support the Bethel College Women’s Association by donating pies for BCWA’s Pie-By-The-Slice booth or any baked item or craft item for the Market in the Round at Fall Festival 2021. Peppernuts, zwieback, cinnamon rolls, coffee cakes are popular items! Bring your pies (no refrigerated or custard pies please) to Seminar A in Schultz Student Center from 4:00-6:30pm on Friday, October 1, or 8:00-11:00am on Saturday, October 2. Baked goods and crafts can be dropped off at the Luyken Fine Arts Center Rm 140 on Friday 1-30-4-30pm or Saturday 7:00-8:00am. All proceeds go to Bethel College.

Bethel College Announcements
– Tues., Sept. 28 – Bethel College Chamber Orchestra concert, 7:30 p.m., Memorial Hall
– Weds., Oct. 6 – Bethel College Wind Ensemble concert, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center
– Thursday, Sept. 30 – KIPCOR Peace Lecture with Mark McCormick, “Peace: It’s a Choice,” 7 p.m., in Memorial Hall. McCormick is a former columnist for the Wichita Eagle and former executive director of The Kansas African American Museum in Wichita, and is currently director of strategic communications for the ACLU of Kansas.
– Thurs., Sept. 30-Sun., Oct. 3 – Bethel College Fall Festival; most activities take place Saturday, Oct. 2, on campus. Features include music, food, class reunions, football, exhibits in the Regier Art Gallery and Kauffman Museum, the comedy The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) [revised], and the STEM Symposium honoring Professor Emeritus of Chemistry Richard Zerger. See https://www.bethelks.edu/alumni/events/fall-festival for the complete schedule and ways to buy tickets online.
Kidron Bethel Village in North Newton and Friends of Kidron will host its annual Country Breakfast on Saturday, October 2, from 7:30 to 9 a.m. This year’s event will be a drive-thru with to-go pick up for the menu of breakfast burritos and fruit. Pull up to the front door at 3001 Ivy Drive and breakfast will be delivered to your vehicle! Free will donations will support Friends of Kidron and the Health Care Benevolent Fund.

Camp Mennoscah Announcements
Camp Mennoscah’s Annual Meeting will be held September 26 at 3:30pm at Hope Mennonite Church (Wichita, KS)! Join us on September 26 at 3:30pm for the Camp Mennoscah Annual Meeting! You are invited to join in person at Hope Mennonite Church (Wichita, KS) or on Zoom. Please bring a mask, if attending in person. We welcome you to look back on our memorable past summer and look forward to where camp is going in the next year and beyond. We invite you to support the many projects of Camp Mennoscah with your donation here! Click here for Camp Mennoscah’s Annual Meeting! Sept. 26, 2021 at 3:30pm Central Time (US and Canada)

Other events and happenings:

Camp Mennoscah will be at Bethel College Fall Fest on October 2! Stop by the booth near the Schultz Student Center to say hi and howdy or to buy a sticker, tee shirt, or water bottle! Don’t miss out!
Fall Fun Volunteer Day! Saturday, October 9, is a Work & Play Day for all ages. Come with your friends, your kids or grandkids and even your own work group! Let us know you’re coming so we have the best projects for your skills at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org. Please bring your water bottle and a sack lunch. Mask and distance at your own comfort level. Meet at the maintenance shed by the red apartment at 8:30am. Stick around afterwards for one last kayak or canoe ride or a hike around camp!
The dam at Camp Mennoscah will be removed on October 17! The fun will begin at approximately 2pm. All are welcome to help with removing and cleaning the boards or simply to watch. The dam will be removed whatever the weather, unless deemed dangerous. Contact Camp Mennoscah if you have questions.
Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat, November 5-7, at Camp Mennoscah! Register at www.campmennoscah.org! There is only one Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat. Lodging will be in the Retreat Center and cropping/crafting will be in the Main Camp dining hall. Space heaters will be available for both areas since the repairs for the furnaces will not be complete by the beginning of November. Fees for the Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat have increased to $150 to meet higher costs and the use of multiple facilities. There is an option to receive up to $25 in scholarship funds per person as part of the registration process.
There are volunteer opportunities for you (and a Wish List)! Camp Mennoscah has year-round work to support the maintenance and upkeep of the campus and facilities. We can accommodate every group size, skill set and length of project you would like to tackle. Check out these ways to Get Involved! Email office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to volunteer. See the Wish List for other ways to support Camp Mennoscah!
We need help mowing and burning brush piles! The grass that is usually cut short is doing its best to compete with the tallgrass prairie in height. Volunteer to mow (with a riding lawn mower) for whatever length of time you can offer or grab a string trimmer to chase back those wily weeds. Or get a group together and schedule a day to burn (wind speed permitting) –we’ll keep trying until a day works! Contact Camp Mennoscah at office@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.
Camp Mennoscah has openings for a part-time custodial/housekeeping position (10 hours) and a part-time office/administrative position (30 hours). Some of the office/administrative tasks can be done from home. Contact Olivia at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for more information.
Camp Mennoscah is seeking a full-time Director of Development, Marketing & Communications to lead our ongoing operational and advancement needs. This position reports directly to the Board of Directors while taking directive from the Executive Director when related to operational considerations. As a member of a small, very hands-on staff, the role is expected to be highly collaborative. This professional must embrace the mission of Camp Mennoscah, have an established background in coordinating nonprofit donation strategies, possess strong written, interpersonal, leadership and relationship building skills, and work as an independent contributor with good organization and follow-through. Most of the work will commence off campus, however some in-person time at camp is required.
This role involves organizing broad-based fundraising initiatives, advocating for Camp Mennoscah through speaking engagements, promotional materials, and social media, as well as recruiting volunteers, and building relationships with board members, donors and staff.
Our ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree, a minimum of five years of fund development experience, or equivalent experience in church relations, and a passion for Camp Mennoscah. They should also be familiar with office related applications, and other technology used for communication and social media. Experience with CampBrain and the associated donor database is a plus.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled and early submission is encouraged. Please send application materials (resume, cover letter, references and salary requirements) to campmennojobs@att.net.

Western District Conference Announcements
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website at https://mennowdc.org/ to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation! See especially:

Announcements:
-WDC Hope Fund – https://mennowdc.org/wdc-hope-fund/

-WDC September Prayer Requests – https://mennowdc.org/wdc-prayer-requests-for-september-2021/

-Pastors or church representatives be sure to fill out the Google Form created by the Resource Commission giving your ideas on what has worked for your congregation during the pandemic- https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSctvGDzLJid8VVuEOv0W82J9SoyPTHWs7E5QyDh6eKnbDqHVw/viewform?usp=sf_link

-Hymnals for Donation – https://mennowdc.org/hymnals-for-donation/

Stories:
–Time for Celebration by Jennie Wintermote – https://mennowdc.org/time-for-celebration/
–Marvin Penner Recognized with Everence Journey Award –https://mennowdc.org/marvin-penner-recognized-with-everence-journey-award/

Events:
-Virtual Training: “Cuidando a los Cuidadores” (Caring for Caregivers) In Spanish only, Sep 27 & Oct 4 – https://mennowdc.org/events/

Mennonite Central Committee Announcements

Join Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) for the 3^rd MCC Color of Compromise webinar featuring Sandra Maria Van Opstal on September 28th at 1:00 p.m. EDT. From the depth of her experience ministering to the Hispanic and Latino community, writer, speaker and co-founder of Chasing Justice movement, Sandra Maria Van Opstal will speak about the impact of the church’s complicity in racism on the Hispanic and Latino community here in the U.S. Register here: https://mcc.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_mn84mcwBTHu_ggUajNFQKw For more information on past webinars in the series, visit mcc.org/color-of-compromise.

Take action to advocate for Haitian asylum seekers by urging President Biden to immediately halt deportation flights to Haiti. Following the biblical call to welcome the stranger, MCC is asking that all deportation flights to Haiti be halted immediately and is seeking respect for basic human rights at the U.S./Mexico border. Take action today!

Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Mennonite Men press here

Mennonite Mission Network New from Around the World press here

Hesston College Announcements
Hesston College HomecomingWeekend – September 24-26
Featuring Art a la Carte – September 24, 8:30 p.m.
Hesston College Campus, Keim Center Lawn
Student performances featuring theatre, Global Voices, Bel Canto Singers and
soloists.

TheatreFest (for high school students) – September 29
Hesston College Campus
High school students are invited to spend the morning in acting and tech-based
workshops followed by a matinee of the murder mystery comedy, The Game’s Afoot

Fall Play – The Game’s Afoot – September 30 to Oct. 3
Hesston College Campus, Keim Center
Plan to see The Game’s Afoot by Ken Ludwig. Murder mystery comedy. Presented
in the Black Box Theater. Showtimes: Sept. 30, 7:00 pm; Oct. 1, 7:00 pm; Oct.
2, 7:00 pm; and October 3, 2:00 pm. Tickets are $10 per adults/seniors and $5 for
students and can be purchased here. Masks required for audience members.

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Rejoice with Brian and Noelia Fox of Mennonite Mission Network that COVID-19 cases in Spain are decreasing and in-person meetings for churches and schools are starting to resume. Pray for Brian and Noelia as they search for a place to hold their English classes, after a year of conducting online classes.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for God’s strength for chaplains, medical providers and others in WDC who serve hospitals, health-care and hospice organizations, as they minister among those most impacted by the ongoing COVID pandemic.

Announcements for September 19-26, 2021

Jazz and Charcuterie on the Lawn

Sr high youth will be in the back of the sanctuary after worship on September 19th and September 26th if you would like to order your box in person.

Can’t stay for the jazz music but still want a charcuterie box to-go?! Feel free to still order one that can be picked up on October 10th between 5-7pm.

Volunteers are needed to deliver “goodie” bags to BCMC Leadership Retreat participants on Friday, Sept 24. Is this one-time opportunity something you’d be willing to help with? If so, contact Dawn Yoder Harms at dawn@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org.

Link for the BCMC Congregational Meeting
If you were unable to attend the congregational meeting on Sunday, September 12, below is the link to watch the meeting on YouTube.
Press here

The next week at BCMC
Monday, September 20
8 to 10 am Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2 to 3 pm Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
Tuesday, September 21
7 pm Worship Commission Meeting
Wednesday, September 22
8 am to 10 am Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2 to 3 pm Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
7 pm   Wednesday Night Club
7 pm   Youth Group
Thursday, September 23
2 pm Hospitality Commission Meeting in Fellowship Hall
Friday, September 24
8 am to 10 am  Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2 to 3 pm Bethel College Class in the Sanctuary
Saturday, September 25
9:30 to 11:30 am Leadership Retreat by Zoom
Sunday, September 26
9:30 am   Worship Service in the Sanctuary
10:30 am   Faith Formation
7 pm Safe Sanctuary Training by Zoom

WANT TO EXPLORE THE HISTORY OF THE KANZA PEOPLE?
VOICES OF THE WIND PEOPLE, an outdoor pageant, will be performed on Friday, September 17 and Saturday, September 18, at 8:00 p.m. at the Neosho River amphitheater in Council Grove. There will be pre-performance music and activities starting at 7. For more details see https://voicesofthewindpeople.com) The pageant is written by historian Ronald D. Parks and depicts the relocation of the Kanza people as encroaching white settlers arrive on the Santa Fe Trail.

You can also spend the afternoon hiking at Allegawaho Heritage Memorial Park southeast of Council Grove. It is located on part of the last Kaw Reservation and includes a dance arbor, stone ruins, plus a few interpretive signs. For more details press here.

– Florence Schloneger

Memorial Service for Lynn Loucks
A memorial service to remember Lynn will be Saturday, September 18 at First Presbyterian Church, 900 Columbus Avenue, at 1:30 PM. Masks will be required.

BCMC Kaleidoscope
Click here for the 2020-2021 COVID-19 Edition of the BCMC Newsletter Kaleidoscope.
Because of the length of the newsletter, we will not be printing a copy for each mailbox here at the church. If you wish to have a paper copy, call the office or email the church at office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org Paper copies of the Kaleidoscope are available at the church in the racks in the foyer or by the mailboxes.

Wichita Pride Parade
BCMC will be participating in the Wichita Pride Parade hosted by Wichita Pride on Sunday, September 26 at 1:00. The Wichita Pride Parade follows an approximate one-mile route on Main Street from the Historic Sedgwick County Courthouse to Douglas Street, right on Douglas Street to Century II. If you are interested in participating, meet at the BCMC east parking lot at 12:00 for carpooling options, or meet at the Historic Sedgwick County Courthouse in Wichita at 12:45. This parade is part of a wider weekend of events in Wichita celebrating LGBTQ+ communities. If you would like more information about the entire schedule of events, go to wichitapride.org. If you plan on participating in the parade, an email, text, or phone call to Nathan Koontz would be helpful but not necessary

Bethel College Announcements
Thursday, Sept. 30 – KIPCOR Peace Lecture with Mark McCormick, “Peace: It’s a Choice,” 7 p.m., in Memorial Hall. McCormick is a former columnist for the Wichita Eagle and former executive director of The Kansas African American Museum in Wichita, and is currently director of strategic communications for the ACLU of Kansas.

Bethel College’s Fall Festival is Sept. 30-Oct. 3, with most activities taking place Saturday, Oct. 2, on campus. Features include music, food, class reunions, football, exhibits in the Regier Art Gallery and Kauffman Museum, the comedy The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) [revised], and the STEM Symposium honoring Professor Emeritus of Chemistry Richard Zerger. See https://www.bethelks.edu/alumni/events/fall-festival for the complete schedule and ways to buy tickets online.

Hesston College Events
Hesston College HomecomingWeekend – September 24-26
Featuring Art a la Carte – September 24, 8:30 p.m.
Hesston College Campus, Keim Center Lawn
Student performances featuring theatre, Global Voices, Bel Canto Singers and
soloists.

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

Camp Mennoscah’s Annual Meeting will be held September 26 at 3:30pm at Hope Mennonite Church (Wichita, KS)!

Due to the recently increased Covid-19 transmission, the Camp Mennoscah gathering scheduled for Sept. 26 has changed. The dessert auction and hymn sing portions of the event will not take place as originally planned due to the increased concerns of safety regarding food and singing. This event will be replaced with another opportunity in the future. Updated details will be shared with you as soon as they’re available.

We will still meet on September 26 at 3:30pm for the Camp Mennoscah Annual Meeting! You are invited to join in person at Hope Mennonite Church (Wichita, KS) or on Zoom. A link will be shared in upcoming weeks. Please bring a mask, if attending in person. We welcome you to join us to look back on our memorable past summer and look forward to where camp is going in the next year and beyond. Our goal for the gathering was to raise money for new diving boards for the pool. We invite you to support the many projects of Camp Mennoscah with your donation here!
Other events and happenings:

Camp Mennoscah will be at Bethel College Fall Fest on October 2! Stop by the booth near the Schultz Student Center to say hi and howdy or to buy a sticker, tee shirt, or water bottle! Don’t miss out!
Fall Fun Volunteer Day! Saturday, October 9, is a Work & Play Day for all ages. Come with your friends, your kids or grandkids and even your own work group! Let us know you’re coming so we have the best projects for your skills at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org. Please bring your water bottle and a sack lunch. Mask and distance at your own comfort level. Meet at the maintenance shed by the red apartment at 8:30am. Stick around afterwards for one last kayak or canoe ride or a hike around camp!
The dam at Camp Mennoscah will be removed on October 17! The fun will begin at approximately 2pm. All are welcome to help with removing and cleaning the boards or simply to watch. The dam will be removed whatever the weather, unless deemed dangerous. Contact Camp Mennoscah if you have questions.
Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat, November 5-7, at Camp Mennoscah! Register at www.campmennoscah.org! There is only one Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat. Lodging will be in the Retreat Center and cropping/crafting will be in the Main Camp dining hall. Space heaters will be available for both areas since the repairs for the furnaces will not be complete by the beginning of November. Fees for the Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat have increased to $150 to meet higher costs and the use of multiple facilities. There is an option to receive up to $25 in scholarship funds per person as part of the registration process.
There are volunteer opportunities for you (and a Wish List)! Camp Mennoscah has year-round work to support the maintenance and upkeep of the campus and facilities. We can accommodate every group size, skill set and length of project you would like to tackle. Check out these ways to Get Involved! Email office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to volunteer. See the Wish List for other ways to support Camp Mennoscah!
We need help mowing and burning brush piles! The grass that is usually cut short is doing its best to compete with the tallgrass prairie in height. Volunteer to mow (with a riding lawn mower) for whatever length of time you can offer or grab a string trimmer to chase back those wily weeds. Or get a group together and schedule a day to burn (wind speed permitting) –we’ll keep trying until a day works! Contact Camp Mennoscah at office@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.
Camp Mennoscah has openings for a part-time custodial/housekeeping position (10 hours) and a part-time office/administrative position (30 hours). Some of the office/administrative tasks can be done from home. Contact Olivia at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for more information.
Camp Mennoscah is seeking a full-time Director of Development, Marketing & Communications to lead our ongoing operational and advancement needs. This position reports directly to the Board of Directors while taking directive from the Executive Director when related to operational considerations. As a member of a small, very hands-on staff, the role is expected to be highly collaborative. This professional must embrace the mission of Camp Mennoscah, have an established background in coordinating nonprofit donation strategies, possess strong written, interpersonal, leadership and relationship building skills, and work as an independent contributor with good organization and follow-through. Most of the work will commence off campus, however some in-person time at camp is required.

This role involves organizing broad-based fundraising initiatives, advocating for Camp Mennoscah through speaking engagements, promotional materials, and social media, as well as recruiting volunteers, and building relationships with board members, donors and staff.

Our ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree, a minimum of five years of fund development experience, or equivalent experience in church relations, and a passion for Camp Mennoscah. They should also be familiar with office related applications, and other technology used for communication and social media. Experience with CampBrain and the associated donor database is a plus.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled and early submission is encouraged. Please send application materials (resume, cover letter, references and salary requirements) to campmennojobs@att.net.

Announcements:
-WDC Hope Fund- https://mennowdc.org/wdc-hope-fund/

-Resources for how to be church together during a (continuing) pandemic- https://mennowdc.org/resources-for-churches-during-a-continuing-pandemic/

Pastors or church representatives be sure to fill out the Google Form created by the Resource Commission giving your ideas on what has worked for your congregation during the pandemic- https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSctvGDzLJid8VVuEOv0W82J9SoyPTHWs7E5QyDh6eKnbDqHVw/viewform?usp=sf_link
Spanish translation will be added soon.

– Annual IBA Benefit Burrito Sale (Order to-Go) Details-https://mennowdc.org/annual-iba-benefit-burrito-sale-order-to-go-details/

-Camp Mennoscah Announcements- https://mennowdc.org/camp-mennoscah-announcements-2/

– WDC September Prayer Requests- https://mennowdc.org/wdc-prayer-requests-for-september-2021/

Stories:
–Weaving Rich Images of God into Our Lives by Kathy Neufeld Dunn- https://mennowdc.org/weaving-rich-images-of-god-into-our-lives/

–WDC Hope Fund Update: The Hope Fund Task Force –https://mennowdc.org/wdc-hope-fund-update/

Prairie View Inpatient Clothing and Book Drive
The King will reply, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” Matthew 25:40 NIV
The harsh reality is, when some patients come to Prairie View’s inpatient psychiatric unit for treatment, they arrive only with the clothes on their back. We keep extra clothing items on hand, but our supply is quickly diminishing. Through your gift of clothing, you’ll provide our patients with a sense of dignity in addition to warmth and comfort.
Will you give gently used clothing items or shoes?
All sizes are welcome. We cannot accept items with strings, belts, cords or similar features unless they can be removed. Donations are accepted on an on-going basis.
We’re also collecting books! The books we receive will be used to enhance our patient library. We are looking specifically for materials related to mental health diagnoses, self-help, and general health and wellness. Many of our patients enjoy reading during their stay with us and have found these materials helpful to them on their healing journey. Books (and magazines) will be accepted through the end of this year.
For more information about our clothing and book drive, or to schedule a drop-off of donations, please contact Diane Peltier, vice president of advancement, at peltierdm@pvi.org or 316-284-6365.

Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond click here

Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level click here

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Christy Harrison and Peter Sensenig, and their three children, are in language study in Paris, preparing for a ministry building Muslim-Christian relationships in West Africa. Pray for their children in French public schools and for Christy and Peter in language school. They are jointly serving with Eastern Mennonite Missions and Mennonite Mission Network.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC elected leaders and staff, as they meet via zoom next Saturday for Reference Council with a focus on one of WDC’s mission priorities, “Connect to God’s Mission in the World.”

Announcements for September 12–September 19, 2021

BACKPACK BLESSING–Bring your backpacks to church Sunday – September 12
Students, teachers, Sunday school teachers, Wednesday night club leaders, school administrators and staff: Bring your backpacks, satchels, briefcases, and school bags to worship on Sunday to receive a backpack blessing for the school year!

Children and Youth Sunday School classes start Sunday – September 12
Sunday is the start of children and youth Sunday School classes! All ages will be meeting every week this year from 10:30-11:30 am.
Preschoolers – Room B4
Middlers (3rd-8th graders) – Room 26
High School – Room 22
Koinonia (college students welcome!) – The Agape House (across the street by the FAC)

BCMC Congregational meeting is this Sunday, September 12
BCMC Congregational meeting, Sept 12, 1pm, via Zoom. The agenda follows and the Zoom link for the meeting is below.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82804063690?pwd=cGF5TGViUUFYK2R3MmhnblZPVVIyQT09
Meeting ID: 828 0406 3690
Passcode: 084634BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
Congregational Meeting Agenda
Sunday, September 12, 2021, 1 pm, via ZOOM

1. Call to order and Centering Prayer – Elizabeth Schmidt, Moderator

            God of life, we thank you that whether we meet in person or by zoom,
            we gather in your presence. Come among us and guide our time together.
            In our reporting, give us honesty; in our listening, give us compassion;
            in our uncertainties, give us direction; in our deciding, give us graciousness.
            Even amidst rising COVID variants, fill us with the creative contagion of
            your love, a love that calls us, by the power of the Spirit, to follow Jesus in
            doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with all your Beloved creation.
            Amen.  (revised from Voices Together, #952, Prayer before a Meeting)

2. May 2, 2021 congregational meeting minutes – Elizabeth

3. Financial report – Michael Claassen, Finance Manager

4. Officer Election – replace Clerk Pat Friesen, who resigned due to move out of state.

            Margaret Toews is nominated for Clerk through remainder of term, May 31, 2023.

            Action:  Vote via Zoom poll function, Yes to approve, No to disapprove.

5.   Abuse Prevention and Response Committee report – Jill Robb, Chair

6. Reopening Task Group update – Dawn Yoder Harms, Pastor

7. Technology Task Group update – Bill Swartley

8. Columbarium Expansion Task Group update – Glen Ediger

9.   Other items?

10. Closing Prayer – Pastor Dawn

Press here for the agenda in pdf form.

Press here for the minutes from the last congregational meeting – May 2, 2021

Paper copies of the agenda will be at the back of the church on Sunday, September 12

Peace Sunday
Mel Lehman will be our guest speaker for Peace Sunday, September 19. Mel is a long time peace activist and director of Common Humanity which focuses on peacemaking through understanding, respect, and friendship with the Middle East and Muslim world. Mel lives part-time in Hesston and the remainder of the time in New York City where he is a deacon at Manhattan Mennonite Fellowship. Please join us in-person or live-streaming for the worship service at 9:30 and for a discussion time in the sanctuary at 10:45. For more information about Common Humanity, go to commonhumanity.org.

Memorial Service for Lynn Loucks
A memorial service to remember Lynn will be Saturday, September 18 at First Presbyterian Church, 900 Columbus Avenue, at 1:30 PM. Masks will be required.

REOPENING CHURCH TASK GROUP UPDATE:

Due to quickly rising COVID-19 cases in Harvey County and the stress on our area healthcare systems, the Reopening Task Group has decided to postpone the reconvening of Chancel Choir this fall for two months. This decision will be revisited as the task group continues to monitor the COVID-19 situation in our community.
We will continue to gather for worship via livestream and in-person (with masks and keeping distance).
Faith Formation classes will begin on Sept 12, as classes feel comfortable to meet (masked when meeting indoors). Please do not come to in-person gatherings if you are not feeling well.
You can find current BCMC COVID-19 guidelines on BCMC’s website by following this link: BCMC during COVID-19 – Bethel College Mennonite Church.

Safe Sanctuary Training will be offered 2 more times for volunteers working with children and youth (Sunday school teachers, sponsors, club leaders, and mentors): Sunday, September 12th at 10:30am in the fellowship hall or Sunday, September 26th at 7pm on zoom (Please email Renee for a link). While this 1 hour training is required for all people working with children and youth each year, others from BCMC are invited to attend this training as well to learn more about abuse prevention and how to model good boundaries in our relationships with one another.

Bethel College Announcements
Sunday, Sept. 12 – KIPCOR Film Series resumes live, with The Prison Within, a film by Katherin Hervey, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Individuals incarcerated in San Quentin Prison, charged with murder, take a journey of redemption through participation in a restorative justice program. Audience discussion with Hervey, film director, producer and writer, and Leonard Rubio, executive director of Insight Prison Project, live via Zoom. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require mask-wearing indoors, and physical distancing to the extent possible, regardless of vaccination status.

Thursday, Sept. 16 – Artist reception for Rick McNary and “Doing Good with Wood,” 6-8 p.m., Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Exhibit closes Friday, Sept. 17. Gallery hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, 2-4 p.m. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require mask-wearing indoors, and physical distancing to the extent possible, regardless of vaccination status.

Thursday, Sept. 30 – KIPCOR Peace Lecture with Mark McCormick, “Peace: It’s a Choice,” 7 p.m., in Memorial Hall. McCormick is a former columnist for the Wichita Eagle and former executive director of The Kansas African American Museum in Wichita, and is currently director of strategic communications for the ACLU of Kansas. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require mask-wearing indoors, and physical distancing to the extent possible, regardless of vaccination status.

Bethel College’s Fall Festival is Sept. 30-Oct. 3, with most activities taking place Saturday, Oct. 2, on campus. Features include music, food, class reunions, football, the comedy The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged), and the STEM Symposium honoring Professor Emeritus of Chemistry Richard Zerger. See https://www.bethelks.edu/alumni/events/fall-festival for the complete schedule.

Announcements:

New Reading Challenges from WDC Resource Library- https://mennowdc.org/new-reading-challenges-from-the-wdc-resource-library/
Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat at Camp Mennoscah- https://mennowdc.org/fall-scrapbook-and-crafts-retreat-november-5-7-at-camp-mennoscah/
Kansas MDS Unit Sponsoring Service and Learning Trips- https://mennowdc.org/kansas-mds-mennonite-disaster-service-unit-sponsoring-learning-and-service-trips/
WDC September Prayer Requests- https://mennowdc.org/wdc-prayer-requests-for-september-2021/

Events:

Women’s Retreat Sep. 11- https://mennowdc.org/event/womens-retreat-2021/

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat, November 5-7, at Camp Mennoscah! Register at www.campmennoscah.org! There is only one Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat. Lodging will be in the Retreat Center and cropping/crafting will be in the Main Camp dining hall. Space heaters will be available for both areas since the repairs for the furnaces will not be complete by the beginning of November. Fees for the Scrapbook and Crafts Retreat have increased to $150 to meet higher costs and the use of multiple facilities. For those who find the increase prohibitive, there is an option to receive up to $25 in scholarship funds per person as part of the registration process.

Other events and happenings:

We need help mowing! The grass that is usually cut short is doing its best to compete with the tallgrass prairie in height. Volunteer to mow (with a riding lawn mower) for whatever length of time you can offer or grab a string trimmer to chase back those wily weeds. Contact Camp Mennoscah at office@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.
September 26 is a Camp Mennoscah Combo! It’s the Hymn Sing-Dessert Auction and Annual Meeting all in one! Plan on singing hymns (masked & distanced), bidding on delectable desserts, and information about Camp Mennoscah’s year. The start time is yet to be finalized, but be ready to join us for an afternoon of fun!
There are volunteer opportunities for you (and a Wish List)! Camp Mennoscah has year-round work to support the maintenance and upkeep of the campus and facilities. We can accommodate every group size, skill set and length of project you would like to tackle. Check out these ways to Get Involved! Email office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to volunteer. See the attached Wish List for other ways to support Camp Mennoscah!
Camp Mennoscah has openings for a part-time custodial/housekeeping position (10 hours) and a part-time office/administrative position (30 hours). Some of the office/administrative tasks can be done from home. Contact Olivia at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for more information.
Camp Mennoscah is seeking a full-time Director of Development, Marketing & Communications to lead our ongoing operational and advancement needs. This position reports directly to the Board of Directors while taking directive from the Executive Director when related to operational considerations. As a member of a small, very hands-on staff, the role is expected to be highly collaborative. This professional must embrace the mission of Camp Mennoscah, have an established background in coordinating nonprofit donation strategies, possess strong written, interpersonal, leadership and relationship building skills, and work as an independent contributor with good organization and follow-through. Most of the work will commence off campus, however some in-person time at camp is required.
This role involves organizing broad-based fundraising initiatives, advocating for Camp Mennoscah through speaking engagements, promotional materials, and social media, as well as recruiting volunteers, and building relationships with board members, donors and staff.
Our ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree, a minimum of five years of fund development experience, or equivalent experience in church relations, and a passion for Camp Mennoscah. They should also be familiar with office related applications, and other technology used for communication and social media. Experience with CampBrain and the associated donor database is a plus.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled and early submission is encouraged. Please send application materials (resume, cover letter, references and salary requirements) to campmennojobs@att.net.

Mennonite Central Committee In Touch Newsletter click here

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Jane and Jerrell Ross Richer’s family is together on the North American part of their two-way mission — between Ecuador and the United States — through Mennonite Mission Network. Pray for God’s leading, as health issues and logistical problems, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, have caused many changes to their plans.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for Western District Women in Mission, as they host their annual women’s retreat at Camp Mennoscah this weekend.