Category Archives: Announcements

Announcements for June 6-June 13, 2021

June 1 marks the beginning of the new program year at BCMC. As we enter this new season, there will be a dedication in worship on June 6 for all who are investing their time energies, and skills on behalf of our congregation, including Commission, Committee, and Church Board members. We hope you can be there to participate in-person!

Service of Ordination for Pastor Renee Reimer
Sunday, June 6th at 1:00 pm
Over the past several months Pastor Renee has spent time discerning and preparing for her ordination. She met with a clearness committee of BCMC members and spent time reading and reflecting in preparation for her Ministerial Leadership Commission (MLC) interview on Friday, May 21st. The church board also voted to approve and support her into this call toward ordination. On Friday, the MLC offered their support of ordination following her interview.
All are invited to an outdoor service of ordination on Sunday, June 6th beginning at 1:00 pm in the Peace Garden. Bring a blanket or a lawn chair.

Pastor Dawn will be on vacation June 7-20. If you have a pastoral concern during that time, please be in touch with Pastors Nathan (June 7-20) or Renee (June 7-12).

Memorial Service for Esther Rinner
The memorial service for Esther Rinner will be on Thursday, June 10 at 11 am at BCMC. All are welcome to attend the service in the sanctuary and a meal and time of fellowship afterwards at the Sand Creek Event Center, 1601 S. Anderson, Newton. Due to COVID-19 precautions, windows will be open and masks required while we are gathered inside the church building. If you are unable to attend in-person, the service will be live-streamed and recorded. It can be accessed through the BCMC homepage on our website by clicking on the green live stream button.

Vacation Bible School
Bethel College Mennonite Church is teaming up with Casa Betania, Faith Mennonite Church, First Mennonite Church, New Creation Fellowship, and Shalom Mennonite Church to offer Vacation Bible School the week of June 28- July 2, 2021. At home VBS bags (filled with lessons, crafts, and activities) will be delivered to homes before the week of June 28, pre-recorded dramas and music with familiar faces will be available, and an in-person field day will take place on Friday, July 2nd from 9-11am. Sign-up here if your child ages 3-5th grade would like to participate.

Summer Sunday School for Children
Outdoor Summer Sunday School for Children and Youth will take place July 4, 11, 18, and 25 on the BCMC playground. All ages are welcome as we will be playing outdoor team building games together.

Abuse Prevention and Response Policy survey
June 8th is the last day to complete the Abuse Prevention and Response Policy survey using this electronic form. Hard copies of the policy proposal and survey can be found in the Gathering Space. Hard copies of the survey can be returned to the collection box found in the Gathering Space. Thank you for taking the time to read through the policy proposal!

Press the link below for the attached proposal.

Abuse Prevention and Response Policy Proposal

BCMC Offering for May 30, 2021 General Fund $5,487.58; Transfer-General $100; Living Stones $5; Women’s Fellowship $50; Phil Koontz Memorial $2,145.

2021 Kansas MCC Sale is July 2 and 3!
Please take a moment to visit the KMRS table in the sanctuary at any time during the coming weeks. A sign up for pies, zwieback and other baked goods will be available with bags and tins provided. Anything is welcome!
Run for Relief forms can be found at the table, or by visiting the KMRS website at kansas.mccsale.org.
Volunteers for working are needed and are being asked to sign up at the website kansas.mccsale.org. Click on the volunteer link.
Contact people are Dale and Margo Schrag, 316-283-6031 and Dennis and Kathy Campbell, 316-416-5156.
Let the Light Shine!

New Hope Shelter Announcement
For anyone considering becoming an evening volunteer at New Hope Shelter, this is a summary of the duties of evening volunteers:

After arriving at 5:00, meet the New Hope staff evening coordinator and review the board that has photos of residents.
Help prepare the serving area for the evening meal at 6:00, and help serve the meal. Take care of any leftovers and wash the dishes in the dishwasher, clean up the kitchen area.
Help residents prepare sack lunches for the following day.
There will be time to interact with the residents, and this is encouraged.

Anyone wanting to serve is asked to take a brief orientation. Contact Valetta Seymour with questions: 620-217-7536, seymour2314@gmail.com

Western District Conference announcements

1. Staff Announcement: WDC Administrative Assistant Nancy Funk has announced her plans to retire August 31, 2021. She writes, “I am so grateful for the opportunity that I’ve had to work at WDC for the last 17+ years. My decision to retire at this time comes with mixed feelings of excitement for what’s ahead and sadness for what will be left behind. I have enjoyed my work very much and felt valued in my role. Working with the various staff members over the years and learning to know many pastors and others has indeed been a blessing to me. I also look forward to a new chapter of life and the possibilities that it brings.” We are grateful for Nancy’s faithful service to WDC, and will be making plans to recognize Nancy and prepare for this transition on the WDC staff. More information will be announced later.

2. Information about the WDC Annual Assembly (July 30-Aug 1) will be emailed to churches and pastors this week.

3. BIG NEWS from the Western District Women in Mission! The Women’s Retreat at Camp Mennoscah will happen in-person this September! Details are being discussed but please circle the dates of Saturday, September 11 and Sunday, September 12 and consider joining our fellowship and reconnecting. Of course, some things will look different including no programming for girls, only meeting on Saturday and Sunday, building use being limited, bodies being one year older, etc. We’ll send out more details and registration information later this summer; hope to see you there!

Mennonite church announcements

1. Join Jerusalem Seminar this winter! Bethel College and Tabor College are again sponsoring a trip to Jordan, Palestine, and Israel, from December 26, 2021, to January 15, 2022. The four emphases of the trip are to (1) understand the Bible in its context, (2) learn about the three major religions of the area (Judaism, Islam, Eastern Christianity), (3) understand the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, and (4) take time for reflection, worship, and prayer together. There is currently room for additional persons to participate. If interested, contact Peter Goerzen (pgoerzen@bethelks.edu) immediately. Cost is estimated at $4700-$4900 per person.

2. Mennonite Church USA has announced the list of in-person and online equipping seminars for youth and adults for this year’s hybrid MennoCon21 convention, to be held July 6-10 in Cincinnati, Ohio, and online. Learn more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/seminars-mennocon21

3. Glen Guyton, the executive director of Mennonite Church USA, has partnered with Dove’s Nest to help churches keep children and youth safe. For tips, resources and to learn more about Guyton’s work with Dove’s Nest, read this news release: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/keep-boys-safe

4. Mennonite Church USA responded to a proposed resolution from South Central Mennonite Conference (SCMC), calling for the dissolution of the conference. SCMC delegates will vote on the resolution at their assembly in July. “Our prayers are with the communities and people of SCMC,” said Glen Guyton, executive director of MC USA. Learn more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/responds-scmc-proposal

5. When life gets hard, it is difficult to find the peace. In her blog, “Feel the Peace,” Ana Alicia Hinojosa, who will be the July 6 worship speaker at MennoCon21, reflects on her conference topic by grappling with where the peace goes when everything feels like it is falling apart. https://www.mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/feel-the-peace/

6. Retired Mennonite Church USA Executive Board staff member Carol Epp passed away April 24. Menno Snapshots re-shared the blog “Remembering Carol Epp: A Reflection on Her Service” as a tribute to her many years of service. Read it here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/remembering-carol-epp/

Prayer Request for Mennonite Mission Network
Praise God with Mennonite Mission Network for the dedication of Service Adventure leaders who are transitioning into other ministries this month. Pray for Cindy Headings (four years), Michelle and Rudy Moyer-Litwiller (three years), and the Eric and Julie Yoder family (three years).

Prayer Request for Western District Conference
Pray for WDC children, youth and their leaders participating in vacation Bible School, and at Camp Mennoscah and other camps this summer.

Announcements for May 30-June 6, 2021

The Church library will be open and staffed on Sunday mornings following worship beginning this Sunday, May 30

The Church Office and Building will be closed Monday, May 31 for the Memorial Day Holiday.

New addresses for BCMC members:
Metta Lieb, 1722 Paddington Circle, Newton, KS 67114
Howard Lohrentz, Schowalter Villa, Mullet West, Room 1136, Hesston KS, 67062
Janet Harder Stucky, 541 W. 78th St., Unit 41, Chanhassen, MN 55317
Myron and Mildred Voran, Presbyterian Manor, 1200 E. 7th Street, Anderson Place, Suite 218, Newton, KS, 67114

Offering at BCMC for May 23, 2021: General Fund $13,191; Caring Fund $500; Living Stones $85; Church Retreat $1,203; Mennonite Camp Scholarship $322; Women’s Fellowship $630.

Service of Ordination for Pastor Renee Reimer
Sunday, June 6th at 1:00pm
Over the past several months Pastor Renee has spent time discerning and preparing for her ordination. She met with a clearness committee of BCMC members and spent time reading and reflecting in preparation for her Ministerial Leadership Commission (MLC) interview on Friday, May 21st. The church board also voted to approve and support her into this call toward ordination. On Friday, the MLC offered their support of ordination following her interview.

All are invited to an outdoor service of ordination on Sunday, June 6th beginning at 1:00 pm in the Peace Garden. Bring a blanket or a lawn chair.

Quilts!
The Mennonites Central Committee Relief Sale deadline for quilts for the Relief Sale Auction is June 1. If you have a quilt to donate, call Margo Schrag, BCMC Relief Sale Committee member, and she will pick up your quilt for the sale.

Bethel College Mennonite Church is teaming up with Casa Betania, Faith Mennonite Church, First Mennonite Church, New Creation Fellowship, and Shalom Mennonite Church to offer Vacation Bible School the week of June 28- July 2, 2021. At home VBS bags (filled with lessons, crafts, and activities) will be delivered to homes before the week of June 28, pre-recorded dramas and music with familiar faces will be available, and an in-person field day will take place on Friday, July 2nd from 9-11am. Sign-up here if your child ages 3-5th grade would like to participate.

Outdoor Summer Sunday School for Children and Youth will take place July 4, 11, 18, and 25 on the BCMC playground. All ages are welcome as we will be playing outdoor team building games together.

Newton Et Cetera Shop thanks you for shopping, donating and volunteering at our community thrift shop! We’ve been able to send over $10,000 to Mennonite Central Committee so far this year, and have set aside over $1,000 for 2022 Local Giving Grants, as well as supporting our local nonprofit partners with gift cards for those in need. Thank you for making this possible! We also request your help letting folks know about three open positions at the shop: two full-time management positions and one part-time summer receiver position. More information is at newtonetceterashop.com and on Indeed.com. Newton Et Cetera shop is an equal opportunity employer, committed to employment equity. Newton Et Cetera Shop values diversity and invites all qualified candidates to apply. Thanks again from the Newton Et Cetera Shop board of directors and staff!

Art Show at Carriage Factory Art Gallery by Glen Ediger
You are invited to visit an art show entitled “Environmental Exposure” at the Carriage Art Gallery from May 29-July 16 featuring artwork by Glen Ediger. Glen has created a unique new art medium. Materials are placed on top of copper, steel or wood, which are then exposed to the environment for months to a year, then cleared off and mounted with framing made from reclaimed lumber, much of which, is salvaged oak shelving from our church remodeling projects. “Everything we do leaves an impression. Our actions, whether intended or not, create an effect on our environment and on our relationships.”

Bethel College announcements:

The summer day camp program at Kauffman Museum, Uncle Carl’s Camps, starts June 1 and runs through July 16. All camps still have some spaces available. Most camps will be in-person with reduced enrollment, masks required while indoors, and many activities held outdoors where campers will not be required to wear masks. Camps are: “Trash and Treasure” (9-12/completed 3rd-6th), archaeology with Monty Graber; “Watercolor My World” 1 (6-8/completed K-2nd) and 2 (9-12/3rd-6th) with LaDonna Unruh Voth; “The Prairie is ALIVE!” (6-8/K-2nd) with Kendall Smith; “Little Houses on the Prairie” (ages 4-5, not yet in kindergarten) with Kristin Neufeld Epp; “Pedal Power” (9/3rd through adult), biking camp with Karen and Stephen Kreider Yoder. See https://kauffmanmuseum.org/uncle-carls-camp/ for dates, cost and online registration.

Sat., June 5 – The public is invited to Walk Sand Creek Trail Day, part of National Trails Day®. Water will be available for people and dogs at the trailhead at Memorial Grove on the Bethel College campus, dawn to dusk (6 a.m.-8 p.m.), courtesy of the Sand Creek Trail Committee.
Sat., June 5, 7 a.m. – Kauffman Museum first-Saturday bird walk. Meet in the museum parking lot (corner of Main and 27th streets in North Newton) to join experienced birders for a walk of 1-1.5 hours in Chisholm Park and on Sand Creek Trail. Trails are mostly unpaved and sometimes steep or sloping.

Everence to hold Basics of investing webinar:
Everence will host a free, online webinar, Basics of investing, on Tuesday, June 8 at 6:30 p.m. Register for this webinar to learn about:

The fundamentals of investing.
Different types of investments available.
How faith values can play a role in your investment decisions.

To register, or learn more about this webinar event, please visit our webpage at everence.com/kansas.
Securities offered through ProEquities Inc., a registered broker-dealer, member 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 ProEquities, Inc., or its affiliates.

WDC announcements

1. The WDC Resource Library invites children ages 3-8 to join us for an outdoor Green Things Summer Story Hour. On Thursdays starting June 3 at 10:00am, we will meet in front of the North Newton (KS) City Building at 2601 N. Main. Register here or at mennowdc.org/library If registration numbers are low, Story Hour will move to virtual format. Please contact the library if you would be interested in a virtual Story Hour. (Central Kansas-area churches please run this announcement and post the attached flier.)

2. Your Story, My Story: “Woven into God’s Story” is our Annual Assembly theme and StoryCorps has invited WDC to partner with their storytelling project, One Small Step, to share and record our own stories within WDC. One Small Step is an initiative to facilitate conversations across differences. Take time to listen to another WDC member and discover the stories behind each other’s beliefs. Sign up at https://onesmallstep.storycorps.org/wdc/. The deadline for registrations is June 25 and virtual recordings will be scheduled July 28-30 (space is limited). For more information about One Small Step see attached flyer.

4. The WDC office will be closed Friday, May 28 and Monday May 31.

Camp Mennoscah announcements
1. Kitchen staff needed! Camp Mennoscah is still looking for kitchen staff for June 6-12 and July 18-24. No professional cooking skills needed–just an ability to follow directions and some happiness to share! Contact olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.

2. Congratulations! Deborah, Camp Mennoscah’s dedicated and generous office assistant of over 7 years, is retiring! She has reduced her hours and has graciously agreed to stay on while the next assistant is found. Camp Mennoscah is seeking someone to share in office/support operations and guest services in a position with potential growth. Contact olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for information.

3. There’s still time to register for camp! Camp Mennoscah has a few openings at most camps. Register online at campmennoscah.org!

4. Camp Mennoscah campers and parents! If your camper is fully vaccinated (2 weeks after the final shot) for COVID-19 before they come to camp, they will not have to quarantine (go home) if they are a close contact unless they have symptoms. Preventative measures are being taken, but that virus can be sneaky. Completed vaccination cards can be uploaded to the camper’s account.

Mennonite church announcements
1. The Kansas Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (KIPCOR) at Bethel College is offering its core mediation training (Practical Skills for Managing Interpersonal Conflict) via Zoom June 14-18. There is a fee discount if you register before May 28. See the attached flyer or visit kipcor.org for more information.

2. Jen Helmuth Shenk felt the need to deepen her spiritual walk, so she began meeting with a spiritual director. Read about Shenk’s journey – from being a stay-at-home mom, to a photographer, to a pastor – in Evan J. Miller’s blog, “Where God’s Spirit is Already at Work.” https://www.mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/gods-spirit-already-at-work/

3. Tim Nafziger reflects on the power of stories in fighting against militarism in his blog, “The Courageous, Vulnerable, Improbable Story of Peace.” The blog is part of Mennonite Church USA’s Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of War initiative. Read more about Nafziger’s story here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/courageous-story-peace/

5. Authors Elain Enns and Ched Myers shared a presentation based on their new book, “Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler Discipleship of Decolonization” in a recorded webinar from Mennonite Church USA. View it here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/webinars/

Book signing: Saturday, June 5, from 1-3 at Faith and Life Bookstore Kathy Wiens will be signing her new book, Please Don’t Send Me Back. This is a sequel to her first book, Bars, Dumps and Other Childhood Hangouts

Hesston College announcements:

Attend prospective student visit events, like our summer Theatre Camp.

Join in a celebration of the “bare necessities” June 7 to 18 in a weekday camp from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. with a public performance to follow. Auditions will take place during camp and everyone who wants a part in the show will get one! Participants may also help build set pieces, props and costumes. Registration closes June 1. Mail form and check to Hesston College Theatre Director, Box 3000, Hesston, KS 67062. More details at: www.hesston.edu/theatrecamp
More details regarding admissions visits at www.hesston.edu/admissions/visit

Golf with a Purpose! Join us for the Lark Open Golf Benefit on June 12 at the Hesston Golf Park. More details at www. hesston.edu/lark-open
Watch the newest Peacing it Together interview, hosted by Tony Brown, Hesston College’s peace ambassador and artist in residence: www.hesston.edu/peace-interviews

The June 2021 Mennonite Mission Network PRAYER VINE is now available for download. The PDF is posted in theprayer resources section of our website and can also be downloaded directly by clicking the link below:

Download this month’s Prayer Vine (PDF)

The link to the June issue of Prayers for Mennonite Education is below.

Prayers for Mennonite Education – June 2021

This is a monthly prayer resource prepared by Mennonite Education Agency (MEA), the education agency of Mennonite Church USA. These prayer requests were gathered from across Mennonite education, from early childhood – grade 12 schools, undergraduate schools, graduate schools and seminaries, and MEA’s Hispanic Ministries’ Seminary and Bible Institute. By partnering with these schools and helping them flourish, MEA works to strengthen the church through education. Thank you for supporting the Anabaptist-Mennonite schools through prayer.

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Jae Young Lee, Karen Spicher and their children serve with Mennonite Mission Network in South Korea. Pray for them as they promote peace ministries through organizations, such as Korea Peacebuilding Institute and Northeast Asia Regional Peacebuilding Institute.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC congregations in pastoral transition, and potential candidates considering ministry opportunities in WDC.

Announcements for May 23-May 30, 2021

PHIL KOONTZ MEMORIAL LINK
Phil’s memorial service was Thursday, May 20, 1:30 pm at BCMC. To view the service click here.
To see the memorial service bulletin click here.

BCMC Offering for May 16, 2021
General Fund $7,855; MCC Meat Canning $500; MCC Sale $200; Sr Hi Youth $600; Living Stones $2,063.33; Women’s Fellowship $200

Last Sunday (May 16) our congregation gathered at Camp Mennoscah for church retreat and the baptism of Caleb Koontz in the Ninnescah River. Pastor Renee would like to invite the congregation to share an important or meaningful Bible passage to them with Caleb as he enters this new adventure of his faith journey. You can send or drop off a card for Caleb at church by May 24th:

BCMC/Caleb Koontz
PO Box 364
North Newton, KS 67117

Below is Caleb’s faith statement:
Being at the beginning of my journey of faith, I look forward to continuing to grow in my relationship to God. I’ve been a part of BCMC since I was born, attending with my grandparents, Dick and Barb Koontz, and my parents. My parents tell me I was dedicated here as a baby and I received my first bible in third grade. I’m very excited to become a full member of this church. One of the most significant experiences I’ve had as a Christian would be our youth group’s visit to Rehoboth in New Mexico. There, I was able to learn how much we are able to help people and the kind of positive influence joy and faith can bring to all types of communities. To be a part of the Anabaptist tradition means that I have the choice to continue in my faith journey and put my full trust in God. Following Christ in life to me means that you have an unconditional sense of caring for people and you serve your entire community. The people that have had the greatest influence on me would be my family as well as my mentor Russ Graber. Russ has taught me a lot and helped me improve as a person. Something he does that I admire is he lights a candle when he knows someone is in need of prayer. He has taught me to be happy for others and I’m thankful for his friendship and that he’s my mentor. I would also like to thank Renee for her help in teaching me on my faith journey. As I grow older, I hope to serve this church and grow in faith with our community.

Bethel College Announcements
The Kansas Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (KIPCOR) at Bethel College is offering its core mediation training (Practical Skills for Managing Interpersonal Conflict) via Zoom June 14-18. There is a fee discount if you register before May 28. Go to kipcor.org for more information and online registration.

Sat., June 5 – The public is invited to Walk Sand Creek Trail Day, part of National Trails Day®. Water will be available for people and dogs at the trailhead at Memorial Grove on the Bethel College campus, dawn to dusk (6 a.m.-8 p.m.), courtesy of the Sand Creek Trail Committee.

The Mennonite Palestine-Israel Network (MennoPIN) shares with us two resources to help keep us current with what is happening on the ground in Palestine now. You can access them here.In addition, continue to keep your voices heard in Congress, your feet on the streets, your prayers lifted up and any other way you can in support of the ongoing suffering in Palestine (including Gaza).

Mennonite Central Committee Announcements

Chose Thrift First – Join MCC and take the Chose Thrift First pledge! Learn how you can care for our planet by making secondhand your first shopping choice. Find your nearest MCC thrift shop to shop, donate and volunteer to support the work of MCC.
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MCC Webinars on Wednesday, May 26!
May 26, 12-1:30 p.m. CDT The Color of Compromise series: Raymond Chang
By examining historical and present day examples, Chang will speak about how racism impacts Asian Americans in the church.
May 26, 7 p.m. CDT The Right to Stay and the Right to Go: Migration for Human Dignity
Join Bonnie Klassen and Anna Vogt to learn how MCC understands the different faces and forms of migration in Latin America. Explore the role of advocacy and community organization for supporting human dignity and enabling people to stay rooted within their local communities.
Register for these webinars and find upcoming webinars on mcc.org.
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MCC Central States COVID-19 update: We look forward to re-opening the MCC office in North Newton on July 6. Please keep us in your prayers as we consider our protocols, processes and capacity. Material resources donations continue to be accepted in the 24-hour donation room. Financial donations can be made at mcc.org, mailed to the office (MCC Central States PO BOX 235 North Newton, KS 67117) or dropped off by appointment. Please call the MCC office at 316-283-2720 with any questions. Thank you for continuing to support the work of Mennonite Central Committee.
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SWAP summer staff needed! MCC’s Sharing With Appalachia People (SWAP) program is in need of Job Site Coordinators and Meals Coordinators to support home repair projects in Kimball, West Virginia or Harlan, Kentucky. Applicants should be at least 19 years old, but these paid roles are not limited to young adults. For more information and to apply, visit mcc.org/swap-summer-staff or contact the MCC Appalachia SWAP office at (606) 634-4418 or AppalachiaAdmin@mcc.org.
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HR Generalist: MCC is looking for someone with excellent relational skills, intercultural competency and HR experience in recruitment/selection, benefits administration, onboarding or policy work to join our team as a full time HR Generalist. This position is open for someone to be based in the U.S. headquarters in Akron, PA or any regional office including North Newton, KS. The deadline to express interest is May 31. For more information and to apply click here: HR Generalist application.

Western District Conference announcements

1. The WDC Annual Assembly will be held July 30-August 1, focusing on the theme of “Woven Into God’s Story”, based on Colossians 2:2-7. Some parts of it will be only virtual, and other parts will be only on-site at Faith Mennonite Church in Newton, KS. Much of it will be hybrid with people on-site and virtual sharing together. Information is posted as it becomes available, and online registration will be available at the beginning of June at: https://mennowdc.org/2021-wdc-annual-assembly/

2. Special Annual Assembly Storytelling Opportunity! WDC’s Assembly theme July 30-August 1 is “Woven into God’s Story.” When was the last time you really listened to the story of someone who doesn’t see the world as you do? The folks at StoryCorps have invited WDC to partner with their storytelling project, One Small Step, to share and record our own stories within WDC. One Small Step is an initiative to facilitate conversations across differences, between people who may disagree politically. It’s not a debate. It’s a chance to spend time virtually with someone different than you and discover the stories behind each other’s beliefs. To join another WDC member for an online conversation, sign up at https://onesmallstep.storycorps.org/wdc/. The registration deadline is June 25 and virtual recordings will be scheduled July 28-30 (space is limited). For more information about One Small Step see the attached flyer.

3. The WDC Resource Library invites children ages 3-8 to join us for an outdoor Green Things Summer Story Hour. On Thursdays starting June 3 at 10:00am, we will meet in front of the North Newton (KS) City Building at 2601 N. Main. Register here or at mennowdc.org/library(Newton-area churches please run this announcement and post the flier attached to Sprouts)

4. KLC Zoom Lunch: “Uncertainty and Conflict” is our May 25, 12-1 pm topic and it’s appropriate as we say goodbye to Clayton Gladdish who’s been a faithful advocate for KLC through the years. Join us whether you’ve been to a KLC training or are interested to learn more. (Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83458158470?pwd=TGpEdG8yWjg4MFpzcUJ0djVtK0QrQT09, Meeting ID: 834 5815 8470, Passcode: 760463)

5. BIG NEWS from the Western District Women in Mission! The Women’s Retreat at Camp Mennoscah will happen in-person this September! Details are being discussed but please circle the dates of Saturday, September 11 and Sunday, September 12 and consider joining our fellowship and reconnecting. Of course, some things will look different including no programming for girls, only meeting on Saturday and Sunday, building use being limited, bodies being one year older, etc. We’ll send out more details and registration information later this summer; hope to see you there!

Camp Mennoscah announcements
1. From not enough to overflowing! Camp Mennoscah is grateful for all the nurses who have offered to be a camp nurse and for anyone who spoke with someone about being a camp nurse. Over three days, the camps needing nurses had the positions filled–plus additional nurses willing to help! What a blessing to have such support for Camp Mennoscah and the campers!

2. Still room at the inn! Camp Mennoscah still has a few openings at most camps. Register online at campmennoscah.org!

3. Counselors, volunteers, and program staff! Camp Mennoscah needs your information/application forms (parts 1 & 2) as soon as possible to prepare for a summer of grand fun and exceptional faith. Difficulties? Contact 620-297-3290!

4. Kitchen staff needed! Camp Mennoscah is still looking for kitchen staff for June 6-12 and July 18-24. No professional cooking skills needed–just an ability to follow directions and some happiness to share! Contact olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.

Mennonite church announcements

1. Join author Sarah Augustine as she shares about her new book, “The Land is Not Empty, Following Jesus in Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery,” in a webinar on June 3 a 7 p.m. EDT/6 p.m. CDT/5 p.m. MDT/4 p.m. PDT. A question-and-answer time will follow. Spanish interpretation provided. This webinar is cosponsored by Mennonite Church USA and MennoMedia. Register here: mennoniteusa.org/land-not-empty

2. In her blog, “The Sacred Work of Holy Agitation,” Bonita Croyle shares what she hopes to accomplish as a member of Mennonite Church USA’s Women in Leadership Steering Committee. Read about her passions here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/sacred-work-holy-agitation

3. Hiro Katano writes about his experience as a peace educator with the Northeast Asia Regional Peacebuilding Institute in his blog, “Peace as Cultural Transformation in Northeast Asia.” The blog is part of Mennonite Church USA’s Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of War initiative to raise awareness of the destructive powers of militarization. Read more: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/peace-cultural-transformation

4. In “Conference Minister’s Response to the Tragic Shooting near Boulder Mennonite Church,” Rev. Amy S. Zimbelman reflects on the prayer vigil held in the aftermath of the shooting that took place in Boulder, Colorado, in March. https://www.mennoniteusa.org/uncategorized/boulder-shooting/

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network
requests prayer for the board members of the Paris, France Mennonite
Center as they meet on Friday, May 28. May they discern God’s leading as they evaluate priorities and explore new global relationships.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for the WDC Resource Library, as congregations and individuals use its materials for spiritual growth, sermon preparation, leadership development, Bible study, children’s stories, and many other forms of learning and faith formation.

Announcements for May 16-May 23, 2021

Baptism Worship and call for scripture passages!
Worship this week will take place at Camp Mennoscah beginning at 10:00 am on May 16th. There will be no in-person worship at BCMC and no live-streamed worship. All are welcome to attend worship at Camp Mennoscah as we join in celebrating the baptism of Caleb Koontz!

Pastor Renee would like to invite the congregation to share an important or meaningful Bible passage to them with Caleb as he enters this new adventure of his faith journey. You can send or drop off a card for Caleb at church by May 24th:

BCMC/Caleb Koontz
PO Box 364
North Newton, KS 67117

Sympathy Notice
Please hold Sondra Bandy Koontz and the Koontz family in your prayers as they mourn the death of Phil Koontz. He had a heart attack early morning of May 13. His sudden loss is deeply saddening. Press this link for the obituary on the Petersen Funeral Home website. The memorial service for Phil Koontz will be live-streamed.

Sunday, May 16 Bethel College celebrates its 128^th commencement (4 p.m.) with a Baccalaureate worship service at 10 a.m., both in Thresher Stadium, with Memorial Hall as a rain back-up. Because of COVID-19 protocols, admission is by ticket only, with graduates receiving a certain number each. Please keep the Class of 2021 and their families in your prayers.

BCMC has an ongoing commitment to provide volunteer help at New Hope Shelter, a shelter in Newton for the homeless. We provide evening and overnight volunteers and meals for 1 week every 9 weeks. Some of our most faithful volunteers have had to stop serving due to age and/or health problems. We are always in need of replacements. Our next week to serve is June 16-22. There will be a volunteer training on May 18, from 7-8:30 PM. Please consider this important volunteer opportunity to serve the homeless among us. If you have questions or are willing to serve, please contact Valetta Seymour at seymour2314@gmail.com or 620-217-7536.

BCMC Offerings
April 25, 2021: General Fund $2,674; MCC Sale $75; Sr Hi Youth $100; Living Stones $125; Peace Garden $2,000
May 2, 2021: General Fund $10,484; Sr Hi Youth $300; Living Stones $415

Behind the Hammer is now available in digital format. Now you can choose to read BTH in print, on your phone or tablet, or on your computer.

Behind the Hammer is the quarterly publication of Mennonite Disaster Service. Each issue brings you compelling and inspiring stories of volunteers helping to give people hope after disaster strikes.
This new digital format offers an environmentally friendly alternative to print. It brings you additional content not found in the print version, offering you a robust and enjoyable reading experience.
Click here to view the digital version of Behind the Hammer.
Click below and select the version that best meets your needs. You will continue to receive only the print version unless you select one of the options below.

Western District Conference announcementThe WDC Resource Library is now open to the public – Library capacity will be limited to one household in the library at a time. The self-checkout station & library catalog computer will remain off during this phase of reopening. Please see library staff or WDC staff for assistance in looking up items (or browse the catalog on your smartphone). Please plan to make your visit to the library quick and not linger (couches/chairs will be turned around for the time being). Please stop at the WDC front lobby to check whether there is anyone in the library. Questions? Contact the library at crlib@mennowdc.org As in the rest of the WDC offices, masks are required while you are in the library. The library continues to offer service to any individual or congregation in WDC via the United States Postal Service–check out the online catalog here.

Camp Mennoscah announcements1. Help set up camp! Volunteers are needed to help set up the HUGE tents used for this summer’s youth camps at Camp Mennoscah. Setup will happen May 28 and 29. Sign up by May 15 by contacting 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org. 2. Camp Mennoscah is looking for additional staff to help with extra tasks necessary this summer. The person should be at least 18 years old and will be paid the summer staff stipend. A multiple-week/full summer commitment is preferred, but those with partial summer availability are invited to apply. Complete the Summer Staff application at www.campmennoscah.org 3. Nurses needed for summer youth camps! Camp Mennoscah needs nurses for June 17-19 (First Camp), June 20-26 (Junior I) and July 25-30 (Senior High). Nurses receive a stipend or a discount up to full camp fees for their camper (camper does not have to attend the same camp week). Contact us at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for more information. 4. Congratulations! Deborah, Camp Mennoscah’s dedicated and generous office assistant of over 7 years, is retiring! She has reduced her hours and has graciously agreed to stay on for a time while the next assistant is found. Camp Mennoscah is seeking someone to share in office/support operations and guest services in a position with potential growth. Contact olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for information.

5. Camp Mennoscah has volunteer opportunities available both now and throughout the summer!

Amphitheater renovations (May 14-15)
Work Day (May 22)
Tent assembly (May 28-29)
Trail bridge (concrete work)
Mowing (weekly)
Cleaning/custodial (weekly)

…and so much more! Check out this list of great ways to be involved! Contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290 or office@campmennoscah.org to make arrangements.

Mennonite church announcements1. Mennonite Mission Network, Elkhart, IN is seeking to fill two senior level positions:

Senior Executive of Ventures – Help create, foster, and deliver collaborative programs and services to our constituents and partners.

Senior Executive of Operations – Oversee administrative and operational functions of the organization.

Detailed position descriptions are here. Letters of interest and resumes should be emailed to StaffRecruitment@MennoniteMIssion.net.

2. Have you been wondering whose faces you will see on stage at MennoCon21, Mennonite Church USA’s biennial convention on July 6-10? Read about who the worship speakers are and what topics they will be covering at this first hybrid (in-person and online) convention: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/news/mennocon21-worship/.

3. For a variety of reasons, regularly attending Sunday morning church services is just not feasible for many people. Beryl Jantzi, in his blog, “Revisioning Church: Sabbath Diaspora and Christian Synagogues,” addresses this issue by offering several ways that churches can accommodate a non-traditional Sabbath. https://www.mennoniteusa.org/diaspora-synagogues

4. Jonathan Brenneman reflects on how the militarized state of Israel causes children to suffer and how our taxpayer dollars aid in causing that suffering. Read his blog, “Investing in Justice Rather Than Militarism at Home and Abroad,” here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/justice-over-militarism

5. In response to increased violence and hate crimes against Asian American Pacific Islander people, the Mennonite Church USA Women in Leadership Steering Committee made a statement urging the church to work together to call out anti-Asian rhetoric and abuse. Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/aapi-statement/. Also, consider attending the Christian Faith & Anti-Asian Violence Workshop sponsored by Mennonite Church USA, Roots of Justice, and ReconciliAsian on Friday, May 28th, 2021 at 6:30 CDT. To register, click HERE, or go to http://reconciliasian.org/new-events.

Mennonite Central Committee announcements
1. MCC Central States COVID-19 update: We look forward to re-opening the MCC office in North Newton on July 6. Please keep us in your prayers as we consider our protocols, processes and capacity. Material resources donations continue to be accepted in the 24-hour donation room. Financial donations can be made at mcc.org, mailed to the office (MCC Central States PO BOX 235 North Newton, KS 67117) or dropped off by appointment. Please call the MCC office at 316-283-2720 with any questions. Thank you for continuing to support the work of Mennonite Central Committee.—

2. SWAP summer staff needed! MCC’s Sharing With Appalachia People (SWAP) program is in need of Job Site Coordinators and Meals Coordinators to support home repair projects in Kimball, West Virginia or Harlan, Kentucky. Applicants should be at least 19 years old, but these paid roles are not limited to young adults. For more information and to apply, visit mcc.org/swap-summer-staff or contact the MCC Appalachia SWAP office at (606) 634-4418 or AppalachiaAdmin@mcc.org.—

3. HR Generalist: MCC is looking for someone with excellent relational skills, intercultural competency and HR experience in recruitment/selection, benefits administration, onboarding or policy work to join our team as a full time HR Generalist. This position is open for someone to be based in the U.S. headquarters in Akron, PA or any regional office including North Newton, KS. The deadline to express interest is May 31. For more information and to apply click here: HR Generalist application.

Mennonite Creation Care Network E-News – click here

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Join Mennonite Mission Network in praising God for Robin Gingerich’s 20 years of ministry at LCC International University in Lithuania. Pray for students from around the world, who persevere in learning despite the many difficulties caused by COVID-19 restrictions, which compound other trauma they may have experienced in their lives.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC’s Stewardship Commission, meeting this week to discern faithful use of resources, and give thanks for generous contributions that support conference ministry.

Announcements for May 9-May 16, 2021

Save the date for the Sr High Sunday School class play – Thursday, May 20th at 7pm. This year’s play is based on the story of Elijah. Come out for an evening of theater…more information coming soon!

Thank you for your prayers, concern, and other forms of encouragement as I went through my operation and as I am now in the recovery phase. Paul M. Harms

Website Access
One way to learn more about ongoing work of the board, commissions, and committees is to read minutes. To increase communication and information-sharing during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond, the board has decided to grant password-protected access to online meeting minutes to interested church members and active participants. If you are an interested church member/ active participant and want to read minutes, please contact Monica at the church office for further instruction. Thanks to the church member who made this suggestion!

Looking for 3 people to be delegates at the Mennonite Church USA Delegate Session
The MC USA delegate session will be held virtually on Saturday, July 10, from 1-3:30pm EDT. BCMC is looking for 3 more people to represent our congregation at this delegate session. Please consider helping our congregation’s voice be heard! If you are willing to serve as a delegate, please contact Pastor Dawn (dawn@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org).

Congregational Meeting Link
Here is the link for the congregational meeting from Sunday, May 2.
https://youtu.be/wPxc_A70QR8

Keith and Donna Woolery celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary
Keith and Donna are celebrating their 50th anniversary of getting married at Bethel College Mennonite Church on May 16. Their children, Danielle and Jesse, are requesting a card shower. They are asking for cards to be sent to Keith and Donna’s Texas address: Keith & Donna Woolery, 3205 Masthead Drive, Denton, Texas 76210
Click here for the invitation.

Bethel College Announcements
TODAY (Sun., May 9), 2 p.m. – Concert by Bethel College’s small a cappella ensembles Open Road (men) and Woven (women), on the steps of the Administration Building on campus. Bring your own chairs/blankets. Face coverings must be worn and physical distancing practiced on the Bethel campus.

Last week to view the Senior Art Show, “Requiem aeternam,” paintings by Adam Kroeker, in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College (through May 14). Reception: Fri., May 14, 7-9 p.m. near the gallery. Gallery hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Fri. Face coverings must be worn and physical distancing practiced on the Bethel campus.

Sunday, May 16 – Bethel College will celebrate its 128^th commencement (4 p.m.) with a Baccalaureate worship service in the morning (10 a.m.), both in Thresher Stadium, with Memorial Hall as a rain back-up. Because of COVID-19 protocols, admission is by ticket only, with graduates receiving a certain number each. Please keep the Class of 2021 and their families in your prayers. Members of Open Road and Woven:Open Road is Jesse Balzer, Hurley, S.D., Phillip Balzer, Hurley, S.D., Peyton Fast, Moundridge, Nathan Garber, Newton, Trae Gehring, Pretty Prairie, Jerod Kaufman, Moundridge, Adam Kroeker, Augusta, Eli Regier, Newton, Nathaniel Schmucker, Moundridge, Zach Shima, Topeka, and Bryce Wilson, Sterling.Woven is Annie Carlson, Hurley, S.D., Charlie Gibson, Ashland, Aubry Grame, Kalispell, Mont., Addie Regier Kauffman, Newton, Halle Krehbiel, Hesston, Rachel Miller, Freeman, S.D., Bethany Powls, Garnett, Juliana Schrag, Goessel, and Allie Weaver, Hesston.

Western District Conference announcement
The WDC Resource Library is now open to the public – Library capacity will be limited to one household in the library at a time. The self-checkout station & library catalog computer will remain off during this phase of reopening. Please see library staff or WDC staff for assistance in looking up items (or browse the catalog on your smartphone). Please plan to make your visit to the library quick and not linger (couches/chairs will be turned around for the time being). Please stop at the WDC front lobby to check whether there is anyone in the library. Questions? Contact the library at crlib@mennowdc.org As in the rest of the WDC offices, masks are required while you are in the library. The library continues to offer service to any individual or congregation in WDC via the United States Postal Service–check out the online catalog here.

Camp Mennoscah announcements
1. Nurses needed for summer youth camps! Camp Mennoscah needs nurses for June 17-19 (First Camp), June 20-26 (Junior I) and July 25-30 (Senior High). Nurses receive a stipend or a discount up to full camp fees for their camper (camper does not have to attend the same camp week). Contact us at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for more information.

2. Help set up camp! Volunteers are needed to help set up the HUGE tents used for this summer’s youth camps at Camp Mennoscah. Setup will happen May 28 and 29. Sign up by May 15 by contacting 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org.

3. Congratulations! Deborah, Camp Mennoscah’s dedicated and generous office assistant of over 7 years, is retiring! She has reduced her hours and has graciously agreed to stay on for a time while the next assistant is found. Camp Mennoscah is seeking someone to share in office/support operations and guest services in a position with potential growth. Contact olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for information.

4. Camp Mennoscah is seeking to fill a part-time custodian/housekeeper position. Hours average 10 per week and are flexible, dependent upon the camp schedule. For more information, contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org

5. Camp Mennoscah has a new tee shirt design and new colors to choose from! The design and colors can be found at www.campmennoscah.org When tee shirts are ordered, the number of each size and color we get is rarely close to what is actually purchased. Often there are a lot left over of certain colors and sizes and none of the ones everybody wants. Help us get the best color in your size! You can show interest or order a tee shirt here! Pre-ordering will be available until May 15.

If you or your camper ordered a tee shirt during camper registration (including Bring a Friends), please complete the survey so we are sure to get the tee shirt you want. (You will not be able to change colors or sizes after ordering.) Camp tees are so much fun to wear!

Mennonite church announcements

1. Glen Guyton has been reappointed for a second three-year term as executive director of Mennonite Church USA. Read about his goals and accomplishments here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/glen-second-term

2. Mennonite Church USA profiled Amy Yoder McGloughlin – mom, pastor and peacemaker with Christian Peacemaking Teams – as part of its Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of War initiative. Read about Yoder McGloughlin’s journey in “From Palestine to Pennsylvania, peacemaking is not passive.” https://www.mennoniteusa.org/palestine-to-pa

3. Carlos Romero shared about his experience as the first Latino executive director of Mennonite Education Agency and about his anti-racism work in the education system in a recent interview. Read more. https://www.mennoniteusa.org/table-menno-education En español: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/por-ampliar-la-mesa

4. Voices Together was made with children in mind, too! Read Ingrid and Anneli Loepp Thiessen’s blog, “Introducing Voices Together to Children: Ten ideas,” for examples of how to integrate Voices Together into children’s programming. https://www.mennoniteusa.org/vt-children-ten-ideas

5. Mennonite Mission Network, Elkhart, IN is seeking to fill two senior level positions.
Senior Executive of Ventures
Help create, foster, and deliver collaborative programs and services to our constituents and partners.
Senior Executive of Operations
Oversee administrative and operational functions of the organization.
Detailed position descriptions are here. Letters of interest and resumes should be emailed to StaffRecruitment@MennoniteMIssion.net.

The Rocky Mountain May 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 Mission Network Prayer Request: On this Mother’s Day, Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for all the world’s families. May they find the resources to provide for their children, so they will have the joy of seeing their children blossom physically, mentally, socially and spiritually into their full God-created potential.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for God’s guidance for WDC congregations, pastors and leaders as they determine priorities and focus vision in the midst of the ongoing challenges and changes of the pandemic.

Announcements for May 2-May 9, 2021

Spring Congregational Meeting – Sunday – May 2, 2021 – 2 pm
The BCMC Congregational Meeting will be held on May 2, at 1 pm, via zoom. Here is the Zoom link for the May 2 meeting.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85663468861?pwd=U0cxcEJ3YlB4eGR5eFRhd3dtZklSUT09

Meeting ID: 856 6346 8861
Passcode: 508271

Tempestry Project panels are now installed in the Gathering Place
The seven panels feature a row of knitted yarn representing the high temperature for each day in twenty year increments, from 1897, when Bethel College Mennonite Church began, through 2019. The project is designed to help us visually think about our warming climate. Additional information can be seen by the Tempestry.
The project was coordinated by the BCMC Visual Arts Committee and the participating knitters (Sara Dick, Esther Kreider Eash, Deane Frey, Mary Goering, Marilyn Harrold, Peggy Souder and Lenore Waltner) completed the project in April 2020.

Miner Seymour is now living at Paramount Community Living and Rehab which until recently was part of Asbury Park.

BCMC Camp Mennoscah Weekend Retreat
Dust off your tents, string your fishing poles, and prepare your hearts for worship at one of the best settings south-central Kansas has to offer! That’s right… it’s the BCMC Camp Mennoscah Weekend Retreat! This year’s event will be held May 15-16, and will only include BCMC – not Halstead First Mennonite as has been the case in the past (due to COVID). We plan on eating, fellowshipping, playing, worshiping, and seeing each other – safely, outdoors – as a way to be in community with each other. We’ll follow Camp’s safety protocol as we do this, of course, but would love to have as many folks out as can come – whether for Saturday evening, Sunday morning and lunch, or a whole weekend of fun! If you/your family is interested in attending, please fill out the link here: https://forms.gle/hr72BEDmvyXsayTKA And, if you have questions about the retreat, pricing, COVID-friendly protocol, etc. OR would like to help out in some way, please reach out to Adam Robb (adamandjillrobb@gmail.com) or Pastor Renee and they’ll do their best to be helpful! Looking forward to being together, in nature, to worship our God!

April 25 Offering at BCMC: General Fund $6,927; MCC Sale $650; Sr Hi Youth $650; Living Stones $155; Women’s Fellowship $500; Rosalind Andreas Memorial $105.

Bethel College Announcements
TODAY (Sun., May 2), 4 p.m. – Spring choral concert, featuring the Bethel College Concert Choir, Woven, Open Road, soloists and small ensembles, on the steps of the Administration Building on campus. Bring your own chairs/blankets or use chairs set up on the Ad Building plaza. Face coverings must be worn and physical distancing practiced on the Bethel campus.
Tues., May 4, 7 p.m. – Bethel College Steel Drum Band concert on the plaza in front of Luyken Fine Arts Center (rain location: KREHBIEL AUDITORIUM). Bring your own chairs/blankets. The concert is free – there will be a freewill offering taken to help support steel drum performance at Bethel. Face coverings must be worn and physical distancing practiced on the Bethel campus.
Weds., May 5, 7 p.m. – Jazz on the Green, featuring Bethel College Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo, a little south of the usual location, on the slab to the east of the art gallery (rain location: Krehbiel Auditorium). Bring your own chairs/blankets. Face coverings must be worn and physical distancing practiced on the Bethel campus
Sat., May 8, 5 p.m. – Trae Gehring junior tuba recital, Administration Building chapel on the Bethel College campus. Free and open to the public with limited seating, physical distancing enforced for non-family groups, and face coverings required.
Sunday, May 9, 2 p.m. – Concert by Bethel College’s small a cappella ensembles Open Road (men) and Woven (women), on the steps of the Administration Building on campus. Bring your own chairs/blankets. The concert is free, but a freewill offering will be taken to support the Concert Choir’s 2022 Europe tour. Face coverings must be worn and physical distancing practiced on the Bethel campus.
Now in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College: Senior Art Show, “Requiem aeternam,” paintings by Adam Kroeker, through May 14. Gallery hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Fri. Face coverings must be worn and physical distancing practiced on the Bethel campus.

Everence to hold several upcoming webinars
Everence will host the following free, online webinars during the month of May; all starting at 6:30 p.m.
Making your wishes known – Tuesday, May 11

Navigating education savings: 529 plans – Tuesday, May 18

Social Security and retirement income planning – Tuesday, May 25

To register, or learn more about each webinar event, please visit our webpage at everence.com/kansas.

Advisory services offered through Investment Advisors, a division of ProEquities Inc., Registered Investment Advisors. Securities offered through ProEquities Inc., a registered broker-dealer, member 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 ProEquities, Inc., or its affiliates.

Mennonite Central Committee Relief Sale Announcements
California Roasted Almonds are to arrive in Buhler, May 3. As soon as they are received, we will deliver to Etcetera stores in Hutchinson, Newton and Hillsboro and the MCC Center in North Newton. Selling price will be $10/bag with donations welcomed. The money will all go to MCC. Richard Ediger will also have some available in Buhler. Call 620-543-2787

Get your MCC Relief Sale gear online at https://wearatomic.com/product-category/mcc/
The proceeds from the sale of these products go to support MCC.

Hesston College Announcements

Bel Canto Singers May Tour: Lift Every Voice

Visit www.hesston.edu/everyvoice for more information and virtual or livestream play options.

Friday, April 30, 7 p.m. – Hesston College Mullet Drive, Hesston, Kan.
Monday, May 3, 7 p.m. – Dyck Arboretum of the Plains with Marie Engle, Hesston, Kan.
Tuesday, May 4, 7 p.m. – First Mennonite Church, Hutchinson, Kan.
Thursday, May 6, 7 p.m. – Pleasant Valley Mennonite Church, Harper, Kan.
Friday, May 7, 7 p.m. – Heartland Community High School, Henderson, Neb.
Sunday, May 9, 4 p.m. – Salem-Zion Mennonite Church, Freeman S.D.
Monday, May 10, 7 p.m. – Bethel Mennonite Church, Mountain Lake, Minn.
Thursday, May 13, 7 p.m. – Banman Residence, 8538 Mette Street, Lenexa, Kan.
Friday, May 14, 7 p.m. – Tabor Mennonite Church, Goessel, Kan.

Commencement – May 1 – www.hesston.edu/commencement

Western District Conference announcement
Church Replanting: Discerning God’s Call to Change: Thank you to everyone who joined us for this discussion last week (April 21) on zoom! The WDC Church Planting Commission was greatly encouraged by your participation. For those who were unable to join us, here’s a video of what we discussed about discerning and considering changes as church communities: Video: Church Replanting: Discerning God’s Call to Change

Camp Mennoscah announcements
1. There are openings for youth at Camp Mennoscah’s summer youth camps! Several of the camp weeks still have space for more campers. Register at www.campmennoscah.org and find further information in the camp blog!

3. Camp Mennoscah is seeking to fill a part-time custodian/housekeeper position. Hours average 10 per week and are flexible, dependent upon the camp schedule. For more information, contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org4. Nurses needed for summer youth camps! Camp Mennoscah needs nurses for June 17-19 (First Camp), June 20-26 (Junior I) and July 25-30 (Senior High). Nurses receive a stipend or a discount up to full camp fees for their camper (camper does not have to attend the same camp week). Contact us at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for more information.

Mennonite church announcements

1. For Corinthian Plan (TCP) CEP Health Coverage participants. TCP is providing specific COVID-19 health coverage for its participants. Many of these benefits are covered without further cost to the participant during the Public Health Emergency (PHE). For specific information regarding coverages below go to the TCP webpage regarding the following:

Vaccinations
Testing, Diagnosis and Inpatient hospitalization
Telemedicine
Temporary eligibility exceptions for furloughed staff or staff with reduced hours.

The Corinthian Plan also has grants available for congregations experiencing economic stress during the COVID-19 Outbreak. The COVID Premium Assistance fund has been made possible by the donations of TCP participating congregations. Click on Guidelines or Application or go to the TCP webpage.
2. Seeking a Chaplain: Bethesda Home, in Goessel, KS, is looking for a part-time chaplain. Interested parties may apply on the Bethesda website: www.bethesdahome.org. Please contact Marci Heidebrecht in Human Resources for additional information at 620-367-2291 x 229 or mheidebrecht@bethesdahome.org.

The link to the May issue of Prayers for Mennonite Education is below.
This is a monthly prayer resource prepared by Mennonite Education Agency (MEA), the education agency of Mennonite Church USA. These prayer requests were gathered from across Mennonite education, from early childhood – grade 12, undergraduate schools, graduate schools and seminaries, and MEA’s Hispanic Ministries’ seminary and Bible institute. By partnering with these schools and helping them flourish, MEA works to strengthen the church through education. Thank you for supporting the Anabaptist-Mennonite schools through prayer.
Prayers for Mennonite Education – May 2021

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network’s Youth Venture program is offering three learning and service opportunities in the United States this summer. Pray for participants, ages 15-22, to be challenged by the Doctrine of Discovery tour, the civil rights tour, or the immersive peacebuilding experience, which will include cooperative interaction with Colombian Mennonite youth.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for the WDC Gifts Discernment Committee as they seek the Spirit’s leading in selecting nominees for positions on the Executive Board and Commissions.

Announcements for April 25-May 2, 2021

As we seek to learn about and challenge racial injustice, we invite you to read the reflections of MC USA’s Executive Director, Glen Guyton in response to the Derek Chauvin guilty verdict this week, here.

BCMC Camp Mennoscah Weekend RetreatDust off your tents, string your fishing poles, and prepare your hearts for worship at one of the best settings south-central Kansas has to offer! That’s right… it’s the BCMC Camp Mennoscah Weekend Retreat! This year’s event will be held May 15-16, and will only include BCMC – not Halstead First Mennonite as has been the case in the past (due to COVID). We plan on eating, fellowshipping, playing, worshiping, and seeing each other – safely, outdoors – as a way to be in community with each other. We’ll follow Camp’s safety protocol as we do this, of course, but would love to have as many folks out as can come – whether for Saturday evening, Sunday morning and lunch, or a whole weekend of fun! If you/your family is interested in attending, please fill out the link here: https://forms.gle/hr72BEDmvyXsayTKA And, if you have questions about the retreat, pricing, COVID-friendly protocol, etc. OR would like to help out in some way, please reach out to Adam Robb (adamandjillrobb@gmail.com) or Pastor Renee and they’ll do their best to be helpful! Looking forward to being together, in nature, to worship our God!

We offer sympathy to the family of Laura Ann Schrag. Laura Ann died Friday, April 23, at Kidron Bethel Village. More details will come later.

Spring Congregational Meeting: This year, due to the Leonard Pitts lecture scheduled by Kansas Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (KIPCOR) on April 25 at 2 pm, the BCMC Congregational Meeting will be held on May 2, at 1 pm, via zoom. Mark your calendars now! The Annual Report Booklets will be sent out early next week. If you wish to have a paper copy, contact the BCMC office.

BCMC Offering for April 18, 2021: General Fund $11,840.61; Community Play School $250; MCC Relief Sale $50; Sr Hi Youth $4,812.95; Living Stones $323.33; Women’s Fellowship $670; Rosalind Andreas Memorial $550; Helen Ruth Unruh Memorial $220; Harold Bartel Memorial $25.

ooking for an opportunity to sing or play an instrument in church this summer? BCMC is seeking musicians of all ages, individuals or small groups, to assist in leading worship this summer. If you are willing or want more information, email Barbara Thiesen, BCMC Music Coordinator, at thiesenjba@gmail.com. Please indicate dates you would be available. If you are a singer, indicate if you are a soprano, alto, tenor, or baritone/bass; if you are an instrumentalist, indicate your instrument.

Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale will be having their 2021 sale for MCC on July 2 and 3 this summer. They are asking the churches for help with expenses, so if anyone would like to help contribute on behalf of BCMC, please let one of our church liaisons know. By the first of May would be preferable, but of course contributions would be welcomed at any time! Contact people are Dale and Margo Schrag 316-283-6031, and Dennis and Kathy Campbell 316-416-5156.

Bethel College Announcements

TODAY (Sunday, April 25), 2 p.m. – If you registered for the Zoom link, don’t forget to tune in to hear award-winning syndicated columnist Leonard Pitts Jr. speak on “Is America Possible?,” part of the Peace Lecture Series from the Kansas Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (KIPCOR).

Kauffman Museum’s spring fundraiser is FaspBox – faspa in a box. Faspa is a light evening meal traditional among Low German-heritage Mennonites. Each box serves one and costs $50. Reservations must be made by Monday, April 26 (for pickup or delivery on May 2), at www.kauffmanmuseum.org/faspbox or by contacting the museum with credit card information at kauffman@bethelks.edu or 316-283-1612.

April 29-May 1 (including Saturday matinee): Bethel College spring play, I and You by Lauren Gunderson, planned for Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Thursday, 7:30 p.m.; Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. – and there is a livestream option! Call or stop by Thresher Shop in Schultz Student Center, Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-5 p.m., 316-284-5205, for tickets for either in-person or livestream. Please note: This play has adult content and is not suitable for children. Face coverings must be worn and physical distancing will be enforced for in-person performances.

Sat., May 1, 7 a.m. – Kauffman Museum first-Saturday bird walks resume. Meet in the museum parking lot (corner of Main and 27th streets in North Newton) to join experienced birders for a walk of 1-1.5 hours in Chisholm Park and on Sand Creek Trail. Trails are mostly unpaved and sometimes steep or sloping. Please note that face coverings must be worn and physical distancing between non-family members practiced at all times.

Sunday, May 2, 4 p.m. – Spring choral concert, featuring the Bethel College Concert Choir, Woven and Open Road on the steps of the Administration Building on campus. Bring your own chairs/blankets. Please note that face coverings must be worn and physical distancing observed on the Bethel campus.

Tues., May 4, 7 p.m. – Bethel College Steel Drum Band concert on the plaza in front of Luyken Fine Arts Center (rain location: Memorial Hall). Bring your own chairs/blankets. Please note that face coverings must be worn and physical distancing practiced on the Bethel campus.

Weds., May 5, 7 p.m. – Jazz on the Green, featuring Bethel College Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo (a little south of the usual location, on the slab to the east of the art gallery).Bring your own chairs/blankets. Please note that face coverings must be worn and physical distancing practiced on the Bethel campus

Now in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College: Senior Art Show, “Requiem Aeternam,” paintings by Adam Kroeker, through May 14. Gallery hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Fri. Face coverings must be worn on the Bethel campus.

SafeHope Event
SafeHope is hosting an event the end of May for their participants to receive new clothes. These clothes could be used for a job, new job interview, or just for fun! Please bring new items to 316 Oak Street, Newton. Thank you for your support with their Clothing Boutique this year! As much as they appreciate all donations, for this event they are requesting only NEW items.

The May 2021 Mennonite Mission Network PRAYER VINE is now available for download. The PDF is posted in theprayer resources section of our website and can also be downloaded directly by clicking the link below:
Download this month’s Prayer Vine (PDF)

Western District Conference announcements1. KLC Competencies: “Why Purposes Matters (and Why Experimentation in Crucial)” is our discussion topic – Thursday, April 22, 12-1 pm. Join us if you are a Kansas Leadership Center alum or if you’re curious. Zoom link to join: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84286455892?pwd=KzdKK1NMRGt2bnVKZExvSERnNDNSUT09, Meeting ID: 842 8645 5892, Passcode: 827423. 2. A Shot for your Right (to Party)? Energizing Others to Beat the Virus – A Virtual Discussion and Journal Launch event – April 27, 6:00-7:45 pm
The latest edition of The Journal, the Kansas Leadership Center’s magazine, explores how the return to “normal” after the COVID-19 pandemic requires most Americans to take an approved coronavirus vaccine. But fears exacerbated by the unprecedented speed of vaccine development, growing political fissures, barriers to access and a shameful history of medical experiments on people of color complicate the return to normal.

What kind of leadership can everyday people exercise to help boost the chances that the pandemic will finally come to an end, and truly bring about a cause for celebration?

Join The Journal and the Kansas Leadership Center for this free, virtual launch event to discuss leadership challenges being elevated by the COVID-19 vaccine rollout. You’ll hear from experts to gain a better understanding of why Kansans are skeptical of the vaccines and how to communicate effectively about them without jeopardizing close relationships with family, friends and neighbors.

Following the presentation by experts, a small group discussion will help you reflect on your own efforts to help end the pandemic, learn from the experiences of others and explore how to contribute going forward. All participants of the Kansas Beats the Virus and Voices on Vaccinations efforts are encouraged to attend.
REGISTER HERE: https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/klcevents/a-shot-for-your-right-to-party/?ct=t%28Journal+Launch%3A+A+Show+for+Your+Right%29&mc_cid=8a030b3192&mc_eid=d2ce127c34

Camp Mennoscah announcements1. Smorgasborg of volunteer opportunities for you! Starting with the Work Day on April 24, Camp Mennoscah has multiple opportunities to support the maintenance and upkeep of the campgrounds. Get Involved and be part of the fun! Email office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to volunteer. 2. Camp Mennoscah is seeking to fill a part-time custodian/housekeeper position. Hours average 10 per week and are flexible, dependent upon the camp schedule. For more information, contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org 3. Camp Mennoscah is seeking a full-time Director of Development, Marketing & Communications to lead our ongoing operational and advancement needs. More information at www.campmennoscah.org. Applications accepted until the position is filled. Please send application materials (resume, cover letter, references and salary requirements) to campmennojobs@att.net.

Mennonite church announcements1. Are you a pastor or professor that feels God’s call to mission? Join Mission Network as we partner with agencies all around the world. Serve globally in various short-term assignments. Contact MichelleR@MMNWorld.net.

2. If you are being called to walk in mission with partners around the world, Mission Network has a place for you. JCS International in Mongolia is seeking a full time Funding and Communications Management Director. Partner in God’s work in these or many other placements around the world! Contact LaurenEH@MennoniteMission.net for more information.

3. Felipe Hinojosa, author of “Apostles of Change,” shared stories about Latino activists transforming churches into staging grounds for protests against urban renewal and displacement, in a recorded webinar from Mennonite Church USA. View it here: mennoniteusa.org/webinars

4. Pacific Southwest Mennonite Conference recently licensed Katerina Friesen for ministry at Wild Church Fresno (California), a Mennonite Church USA church plant that meets outdoors and feels a particular call to care for God’s creation. Read more at https://www.mennoniteusa.org/friesen-licensed-wild-church

5. What are the causes of war? And what can we do to end war before it begins? David Lapp-Jost answers these questions in his blog, “Nurturing more life-giving community.” Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/life-giving-community

6. Pastor Graciela Tijerina listened when God called her to lead Iglesia Menonita Casa Betania (Bethany House Mennonite Church), in Newton, Kansas. Read her story here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/news/iglesia-casa-betania/
En español: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/menoticias-tijerina

7. Award-winning syndicated columnist Leonard Pitts Jr., who packed out Memorial Hall at Bethel College in September 2017, makes a return appearance on Sunday, April 25, at 2 p.m. Pitts will be live online, speaking on “Is America Possible?” This is part of the Peace Lecture Series from the Kansas Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (KIPCOR). Register for the Zoom link at kipcor.org

Hesston College Announcements:
Bel Canto Singers – An outdoor worship service at Alexanderwhohl Mennonite Church in Goessel, KS – April 25, 10:00am

Bel Canto Singers Concert – Presented at the Mullet Drive parking lot at Hesston College – April 30, 7:00pm – Fine Arts Livestream

Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp Announcements
RMMC SPRUCE BEETLE PACKET WORKDAY NOW APRIL 24TH – With the coming of snow and cold (ah, Springtime in CO), the workday has been moved to April 24. Please signup to come help with this year’s distribution by visiting our Volunteer page and select “Signup for Maintenance“. Friday night accommodations are offered by request and breakfast will be served Saturday morning at 8:00 a.m. and lunch at 11:30 a.m. Hope to have you join us!

SPRUCE BEETLE TREE CUTTING AT ROCKY MOUNTAIN MAY 23-29, 2021 – Mennonite Disaster Service and RMMC continue their critical partnership in the work to remove beetle infested Engelmann Spruce trees from camp. Ten volunteers (approximately) needed each day. Volunteers for foodservice are also encouraged to help in support of the week’s efforts. Please visit the volunteer page at www.rmmc.org and select “Signup for Maintenance” or “Signup for Foodservice” for 1 or 2 days or the whole week if you can. For additional information, please contact Paul Unruh (phunruh@gmail.com, 316-772-6308) or Marc Yoder (marcyoder1@gmail.com, 719-942-3276).

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network praises God for the three-year ministry of Diana Cruz and Felipe Preciado at La Casa Grande, a children’s home in Benin. Pray for Diana and Felipe as they transition back to living in and doing God’s work in Colombia, their sending country.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for pastors, parents, teachers, and mentors in WDC congregations, as they guide faith formation for children and youth in the midst of challenging times.

Announcements for April 18-April 25, 2021

From the Staff Congregation Relations Committee
The Staff Congregation Relations Committee (SCRC) of the Bethel College Mennonite Church (BCMC) serves as a bridge between BCMC staff and the congregation. We hold within our vision the mutual care and growth of both staff and congregation. SCRC advocates for each side while working to enhance and strengthen the whole.
BCMC is part of the Corinthian Plan, which is the MC USA health insurance plan. The Corinthian Plan publishes a Pastor Wellbeing Checklist, which SCRC is in the process of reviewing. As described by The Corinthian Plan, the checklist is an invitation for congregations to enter into discussions with their pastors about how to create a healthier and more fulfilling work environment. The checklist includes an invitation for congregational leadership to remind the congregation of important boundaries to protect the well-being of our pastors. To that end, SCRC wishes to remind BCMC of important ways we can respect the boundaries of our staff in order to ensure they have a healthy and fulfilling work environment and that they can enjoy healthy work-life balance.
1. Our pastors and staff have dedicated working hours. Unless there is an emergency, care should be taken to respect our staff’s working hours and personal time. By way of reminder, below are the days our pastors and staff are away from the office:
Pastor Dawn Yoder Harms – Mondays off
Pastor Renee Reimer—Fridays off
Pastor Nathan Koontz—Mondays and Wednesdays off
Monica Lichti, Office and Facilities Manager—Friday afternoons off
Mike Crawford, Custodian—Tuesdays off
SCRC has encouraged our staff to use their days off to rest and recharge and to avoid reading and responding to emails or addressing other church business. For our pastoral staff, Sundays are working days, so their Sabbath day must come on another day. It is our belief that these days of Sabbath are critical to our staff’s well-being and we hope you will join us in respecting these important boundaries.
2. Another way we can support the well-being of our staff is to be mindful of the ways in which we communicate with one another. It takes a tremendous amount of time and energy on the part of our staff to keep the everyday life of our church running smoothly. Email can be a helpful tool for engaging in ordinary communication that furthers this end. But on top of the daily tending to the functioning of our organization, our staff are dealing with the deeper, human and spiritual needs of our congregation. Email is usually not an effective tool to communicate in this vein, nor is it an effective tool for expressing frustration, disappointment or disagreement. If you are frustrated or upset about something in your life or the life of the congregation, SCRC encourages you to pick up the phone and call the church or schedule and in person meeting. It is healthier for everyone involved to engage in conversation rather than to send an email that might be misinterpreted or sent in anger.
In the last year, we have been through a long season of fear, uncertainty and change as we learned to adjust to living in a pandemic. Much of what we hold dear has been stripped from us, whether it be worshiping together in our church, hugging our friends and family, or visiting with loved ones in person. We are all tired and weary, including our pastors and our BCMC staff. They have borne the responsibility for navigating our congregation through these unprecedented times. And they have done it with grace and compassion. As we look forward to the light at the end of this long tunnel of separation, let’s be mindful of the ways we can show care and respect for those who have been so dedicated to caring for us.
The Staff Congregation Relations Committee: Heather Zerger, SCRC Chair, Dave Linscheid, Mary Goering
Vern Preheim

As the Reopening Task Group makes plans to increase the number of people participating in in-person worship, your feedback is important. Please take two minutes to complete this two question survey. Hit the “submit” button when you are finished:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdDwpq9MgVVWbWm4tv-_DfH822RjHko8eypCzNSXFCi7DphTw/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0&gxids=7628

Looking for an opportunity to sing or play an instrument in church this summer? BCMC is seeking musicians of all ages, individuals or small groups, to assist in leading worship this summer. If you are willing or want more information, email Barbara Thiesen, BCMC Music Coordinator, at thiesenjba@gmail.com. Please indicate dates you would be available. If you are a singer, indicate if you are a soprano, alto, tenor, or baritone/bass; if you are an instrumentalist, indicate your instrument.

JOINING SCN SURVEY RESULTS:
Final results of the Congregational Survey regarding joining Supportive Communities Network (SCN) are:
TOTAL RESPONSES 131
YES 121 (92.4%)
NO 10 (7.6%)

SCN is a program of the Brethren Mennonite Council for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Interests. It is a network of Mennonite and Church of the Brethren communities who are publicly affirming of gay, lesbian, transgender, and bisexual members.
The survey was sent to people who attend and participate in the life of BCMC and was not restricted to voting BCMC church members. The survey was sent electronically via email, and also by post mail to participants who do not communicate electronically.
The Church Board reviewed survey results at its meeting on April 9, 2021. The number of YES responses significantly exceeds 75%. The Board is taking next steps to join SCN.
May we continue learning and following Christ together on pathways of justice, mercy, and walking humbly with God and neighbor.
Elizabeth Schmidt, Moderator and Board Chair

BCMC Offerings
March 28, 2021: General Fund $8,026; Media Supplies $55; Sr Hi Youth $20; Caring Fund $100; Living Stones $325; Transfer-Funeral $175; Hymnals $20; Women’s Fellowship $775
April 4, 2021: General Fund $7,735; Sr Hi Youth $150; Transfer-General $4; Living Stones $715; Rosalind Andreas Memorial $275
April 11, 2021: General Fund $10,056.30; General Fund 2022 $12,017.72; Caring Fund $25; Living Stones $330.Rosalind Andreas Memorial $275; Helen Ruth Unruh Memorial $275

Mennonite Central Committee Announcements
From the MCC U.S. Washington Office, an invitation to take action: Prevent future war—repeal the Iraq AUMF (Authorization for Use of Military Force) The 2002 Iraq AUMF authorized war against the Saddam Hussein regime and has been used to justify military action for 19 years without additional congressional approval. Two bills repealing the AUMF in the House of Representative and the Senate have growing bipartisan support. Repealing past AUMFs will return authority to engage in militarized force to Congress, creating greater accountability for military actions. Send a message to your members of Congress calling on them to support the repeal of the 1991 and 2002 Iraq AUMFs.

MCC dignity kit informational webinar, April 20 at 7 p.m. Yes, MCC has a new kit that has been in development for years and now we’re ready to teach you how to help us bring dignity to young women around the world! The dignity kit includes hygiene items and a reusable menstruation pad system. Join Kate Mast for this webinar to learn about the kit and how to sew the base units for the reusable system. Email katemast@mcc.org for the Zoom link.

Responding to disaster: MCC’s response to hurricanes Eta & Iota webinar April 21 & 22 at 7pm
MCC is pleased to bring you, via Zoom, the people and stories directly impacted by this disaster response that you generously supported. Register here for this two night webinar to hear directly from MCC partner organizations and church partners in Honduras and Nicaragua. They will share about MCC’s disaster response as well as how climate change impacts migration and poverty in Central America.

MCC is hiring a multimedia producer! Check out the job description and apply today!

Bethel College Announcements
Sunday, April 25, 2 p.m. – Award-winning syndicated columnist Leonard Pitts Jr., who packed out Memorial Hall at Bethel College in September 2017 with a lecture titled “America in an Age of Trump,” makes a return engagement, live online, speaking on “Is America Possible?” This is part of the Peace Lecture Series from the Kansas Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (KIPCOR). Register for the Zoom link at kipcor.org

Kauffman Museum’s spring fundraiser is FaspBox – faspa in a box. Faspa is a light evening meal traditional among Low German-heritage Mennonites. Each box serves one and costs $50. Reservations must be made by Monday, April 26 (for pickup or delivery on May 2), by going to the Kauffman Museum website, then click on Visit, then click on Events, or by contacting the museum with credit card information at kauffman@bethelks.edu or 316-283-1612.

Sunday, May 2, 4 p.m.: Spring choral concert, featuring the Bethel College Concert Choir, Woven and Open Road on the steps of the Administration Building on campus. Bring your own chairs/blankets. Please note that face coverings must be worn and physical distancing practiced on the Bethel campus.

Sat., April 24, 7 p.m. – Caleb Abbott senior saxophone recital, Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College, featuring classical and jazz pieces by Glazunov, Morosco, Shorter, Wood & Mellin, and an original composition. Those planning to attend must wear masks and sit physically distanced or in family groups. Seating is limited, with priority given to members of a pre-concert list of family and friends.

Western District Conference Announcements
1. Church Replanting – Discerning God’s Call to Change
God is continuing to call God’s church to change so that we can better embody our Jesus-given mission. Perhaps the Spirit is already moving in your heart: Have you been longing to implement changes resulting in deeper discipleship, while inviting and welcoming others into the way of Jesus? But how can we do that if we have become stuck in what was and what has been? How can we prayerfully approach healthy changes as a community for the sake of the Gospel? Join members of the WDC Church Planting Commission for a Zoom conversation and discussion on these topics and more on April 21 at 11:00 am (https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84445430211?pwd=Y3A4V2toK3YxUEVhZGtVcEQzU21nQT09, Meeting ID: 844 4543 0211, Passcode: 173971). Tim Amor, pastor at Beatrice (NE) Mennonite Church, will share his congregation’s ‘replanting’ story and engage our own exploration into how God’s Spirit is moving within us and the congregations we serve, considering guiding questions such as:
· What are you willing to change so that you and your church can better embody and share the love of Jesus?
· What are you not willing to change?
· How can we better disciple and invite others to join with us in orienting all of life toward the radical love of Jesus?

Camp Mennoscah Announcements
1. Men and Boys Retreat, April 16-18, at Camp Mennoscah! Come to Camp Mennoscah for time for fishing, canoeing, worshiping, sitting by the fire, or visiting with friends in fellowship. No pre-registration. Registration and payment will take place upon arrival at the shelter. For more information contact Kevin Neufeld at 316-322-5515.
2. Camp Mennoscah is cleaning house! Anyone visiting will notice a “display” of items in the field in front of the maintenance shed. When the shed was cleaned out, the items were placed there until we could find new locations for them. It’s messy, as many big cleaning projects are, and we’ll continue to find places to store those items!
3. Camp Mennoscah is seeking to fill a part-time custodian/housekeeper position. Hours average 10 per week and are flexible, dependent upon the camp schedule. For more information, contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org
4. Camp Mennoscah is seeking a full-time Director of Development, Marketing & Communications to lead our ongoing operational and advancement needs. More information at www.campmennoscah.org. Applications accepted until the position is filled; early submission encouraged. Please send application materials (resume, cover letter, references and salary requirements) to campmennojobs@att.net.
Mennonite Church Announcements1. Come build communities of peace with the Colombia Youth Venture experience. Youth participants in both countries come together (virtually) to collaboratively explore that which makes for peace in their own, respective contexts. Visit MennoniteMission.net/YouthVenture to learn more. Deadline is May 1!
2. Looking for a non-traditional pastoral role? Become a unit leader for Service Adventure, a gap-year program for ages 17-20 from Mennonite Mission Network. Unit leaders, who are at least 24 years of age, serve as mentors to the young adults in the Service Adventure household. Leaders are needed in Colorado Springs, CO and Johnstown, PA. Learn more by contacting SusanN@MennoniteMission.net.
3. Pastor Jon Carlson of Forest Hills (Pennsylvania) Mennonite Church has been nominated as Mennonite Church USA moderator-elect for the 2021-2023 biennium. Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/carlson-elect
4. Hendy Matahelemaul sheds light on the dramatic increase in hate crimes and acts of racism against Asians in the United States in his blog, “Difficult things in difficult times.” Learn more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/difficult-things-times
5. In her blog, “Let us lay down our economic weapons,” Katerina Parsons explains the impact that U.S. economic sanctions have on the people in the countries that have experienced these sanctions. Parsons calls us to advocate against these sanctions, in order put our love for people around the world into action. https://www.mennoniteusa.org/economic-weapons
6. As a young man, Alfonso Alvarado dreamt of leaving his home in El Salvador and moving to the United States. Read about his journey, which led him to become a pastor and church planter at a Mennonite church in “Beyond that ocean is North America.” In English: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/menoticias-alfonso-alvarado/ En español: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/menoticias/posts/alfonso-alvarado/.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN SUMMER YOUTH CAMPS – Another year of coronavirus impacts and we are all anew hoping for a successful summer camping season. While guidance from the state is yet to come, we are working toward offering our resident camp programs at 50% capacity and our wilderness camp programs at 100%. Currently, four out of our eleven youth camps (2 resident camps and 2 wilderness camps) have reached capacity with waitlists. Camp is excited again for the group of summer staff who are looking forward to serving the campers and guests anticipating their time here at Rocky Mountain this summer. Special thanks to our donors and churches and conference who have ensured the opportunity to offer a summer camp experience in 2021.

Buhler High School Choral Department Announcement (under the direction of Greg Bontrager)
Buhler High School Choral Department will present the musical GODSPELL, April 28, 30, May 1 and 2!. Music and Stage Direction by Greg Bontrager with Choreography by Katelyn Stoss and Rock Combo Direction by Rich Toevs. In this tale of building a community, friendship, loyalty, and love, a small group of disciples help Jesus tell a variety of parables through song, dance, and humor. But at its core, it’s the story of all of us, how we need to take care of each other, how we are all, in essence, a family. Godspell will be performed at the Buhler High School Auditorium April 28, 30 at 7:00 p.m.,
May 1 at 7:30 pm. and a matinee, May 2 at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $10 for adults, $6 for K-12 students and are available by calling BHS at 620-543-2255. Tickets will also be available at the door or at this website: file:///Users/gbontrager/Desktop/Godspelltickets.html

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for the two-day Sent Network conference that begins on Thursday, April 23. Pray that all who participate in this virtual church-planting summit will be inspired, energized, and given the tools necessary for encouraging the growth of Jesus’ church.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for farmers and gardeners, and pray for all those in WDC congregations working to be faithful stewards of God’s creation.

Announcements for April 11-April 18, 2021

Interested in learning more about our new hymnal, Voices Together? Check out this helpful article by Katie Graber, member of the Worship and Song Committee. https://www.mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/answers-to-your-voices-together-questions/

A heartfelt thank you with deep appreciation for the many birthday wishes I received for my 90th birthday. May you also receive many blessings in the coming year.” Esther M. Thieszen

Helen Ruth Unruh
A private graveside service for Helen Ruth Unruh occurred this past Thursday at Greenwood Cemetery in Newton. Attached is a PDF of the service. Please continue to hold Helen’s family and friends in your prayers as they grieve her loss. Helen Ruth Obit Helen Ruth Worship Service

The BCMC Mission Quilters are back in the church building. A new quilt has been set up. Everyone is welcome to come quilt. Bring your mask. Come on Monday afternoons, 1-5 pm in the church basement, Room B6, to quilt!

Through Friday, April 16 – Student Art Exhibit in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. The 2020 exhibit had to be canceled because of COVID shutdowns, so this one covers two school years and 55 different student artists, including two graduates. Gallery hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Fri. Please note that face coverings must be worn and physical distancing observed on the Bethel campus.

Sunday, April 25, 2 p.m. – Award-winning syndicated columnist Leonard Pitts Jr., who packed out Memorial Hall at Bethel College in September 2017 with a lecture titled “America in an Age of Trump,” makes a return engagement, live online, speaking on “Is America Possible?” This is part of the Peace Lecture Series from the Kansas Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (KIPCOR). Register for the Zoom link at kipcor.org

Kauffman Museum’s spring fundraiser is FaspBox – faspa in a box. Faspa is a light evening meal traditional among Low German-heritage Mennonites. Each box serves one and costs $50. Reservations must by made by Monday, April 26 (for pickup or delivery on May 2) by going to the Kauffman Museum website and clicking on events or by contacting the museum with credit card information at kauffman@bethelks.edu or 316-283-1612.

The MC USA biennial convention will take place in July 6-10, 2021 in Cincinnati, Ohio. While a limited number of persons will be allowed to participate in-person, any registrant can participate virtually from home–joining in worship, participating in seminars and exploring the exhibition hall. You can register here, after April 6: https://convention.mennoniteusa.org/

The MC USA delegate session will be held virtually on Saturday, July 10, from 1-3:30pm EDT. BCMC is looking for 5 people to represent our congregation at this delegate session. Since the session will be held virtually, there will be no need to travel. If you are interested in being a delegate, please contact Pastor Dawn (dawn@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org).

The annual corporation meeting of Community Playschool, Inc. will take place on Monday, April 12 at 7:15 pm in the Fellowship Hall of the Bethel College Mennonite Church. This meeting is open to all corporation members which includes all members of sponsoring churches. In order to maintain safety guidelines for Covid 19, we ask that you call 316-217-2548 if you plan to attend and leave a message with your name so that we know how many people to expect. Mask wearing will be required.
Thank you-Jeanette Leary, director

Newton Et Cetera Shop is grateful for your donated items, your volunteer time, and your shopping enthusiasm! We have three requests for you this spring:
1. Please let your friends and neighbors know we’re hiring a full-time Home Goods Manager! The job description and applications are available on our website (newtonetceterashop.com) and at our shop; applications are due April 19, 2021.
2. We are in need of high-quality furniture, toys and home goods at this time. Our current donation schedule is every Wednesday, 9:30-6:00, and we hope to add other days of the week in the coming months!
3. We welcome new volunteers! Amazingly, we welcomed the same number of new volunteers (40!) in 2020 in the midst of a pandemic, as we did in 2019! If you’re interested in learning more, please visit our website or facebook page, send us an email expressing interest to manager@newtonetceterashop.com, or call us at 316-283-9461. Thank you for supporting your local MCC Thrift Shop!

Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale will be having their 2021 sale for Mennonite Central Committee on July 2 and 3 this summer. They are asking the churches for help with expenses, so if anyone would like to help contribute on behalf of BCMC, please let one of our church liaisons know. By the first of May would be preferable, but of course contributions would be welcomed at any time! Contact people are Dale and Margo Schrag 316-283-6031, and Dennis and Kathy Campbell 316-416-5156.

Mennonite Central Committee dignity kit informational webinar, April 20 at 7 p.m. Yes, MCC has a new kit that has been in development for years and now we’re ready to teach you how to help us bring dignity to young women around the world! The dignity kit includes hygiene items and a reusable menstruation pad system. Join Kate Mast for this webinar to learn about the kit and how to sew the base units for the reusable system. Email katemast@mcc.org for the Zoom link.

Responding to disaster: MCC’s response to hurricanes Eta & Iota webinar April 21 & 22 at 7pm
MCC is pleased to bring you, via Zoom, the people and stories directly impacted by this disaster response that you generously supported. Register here for this two night webinar to hear directly from MCC partner organizations and church partners in Honduras and Nicaragua. They will share about MCC’s disaster response as well as how climate change impacts migration and poverty in Central America.

MCC is hiring a multimedia producer! Check out the job description and apply today!

Western District Conference announcements
1.  WDC Hope Fund update: One year ago in April 2020, the WDC Executive Board established the Hope Fund to support WDC congregations and ministers in response to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Since then, contributions of over $45,000 have been received, and grants totaling over $31,000 have been distributed to assist with expenses such as rent and repairs, utilities, groceries, pastoral support, medical expenses and mental health care. Thanks be to God for the mutual support and generosity that has been shared through these funds!  In anticipation of future needs beyond the pandemic, the Executive Board recently approved an expansion of the Hope Fund guidelines, to also include assistance in times of natural disaster or similar emergencies, and to allow WDC commissions (in addition to congregations) to also apply for grants to assist congregations and ministers. The Board also approved a Hope Fund Task Force to continue administering the fund. For more information, see the attached revised guidelines and application forms. Gifts to the Hope Fund may be made online at https://mennowdc.org/ (click on “Donate to WDC) or by sending a check to PO Box 306, N. Newton, KS 67117. Thank you!
2.  All women and girls are invited to the Western District Women in Mission 2021 Spring Soiree Thursday, April 8 at 7:00 pm.  In lieu of attending our annual Spring Supper, gather with us for a virtual night of worship, music and a reflection on “Faith in Turbulent Times” offered by special guest speaker and freelance minister, Georgia Metz, M. Div. Special music will be provided by Erin Regier Graber and Addie Regier Kauffman. Email WDWM2021SpringSoiree@gmail.com to register ASAP. A zoom link will be sent to registered participants prior to the event.
3. Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church, Goessel, KS, is pleased to host the Service of Ordination for Lead Pastor Caleb Yoder on Sunday, April 11, at 4:00 pm. COVID precautions will be followed, including social distancing, required masks, and no congregational singing. A quartet will sing from the stage. Guests are welcome to join by livestream; email alexmenno@mtelco.net for the Zoom link.
4.  Church Replanting – Discerning God’s Call to Change – Zoom conversation – APRIL 21, 11:00 AMGod is continuing to call God’s church to change so that we can better embody our Jesus-given mission. Perhaps the Spirit is already moving in your heart: Have you been longing to implement changes resulting in deeper discipleship, while inviting and welcoming others into the way of Jesus?  But how can we do that if we have become stuck in what was and what has been? How can we prayerfully approach healthy changes as a community for the sake of the Gospel? Join members of the WDC Church Planting Commission for a Zoom conversation and discussion on these topics and more on April 21 at 11:00 am. Tim Amor, pastor at Beatrice (NE) Mennonite Church, will share his congregation’s ‘replanting’ story and engage our own exploration into how God’s Spirit is moving within us and the congregations we serve, considering guiding questions such as:· What are you willing to change so that you and your church can better embody and share the love of Jesus?
· What are you not willing to change?
· How can we better disciple and invite others to join with us in orienting all of life toward the radical love of Jesus?

Camp Mennoscah announcements
1. Camp Mennoscah is seeking a full-time Director of Development, Marketing & Communications to lead our ongoing operational and advancement needs. More information at www.campmennoscah.org. Applications accepted until the position is filled; early submission encouraged. Please send application materials (resume, cover letter, references and salary requirements) to campmennojobs@att.net.
2.  Men and Boys Retreat, April 16-18, at Camp Mennoscah! Come to Camp Mennoscah for time for fishing, canoeing, worshiping, sitting by the fire, or visiting with friends in fellowship. No pre-registration. Registration and payment will take place upon arrival. For more information contact Kevin Neufeld at 316-322-5515.
3.  It’s time to finish the Campfire Amphitheater at Camp Mennoscah!  Work days are scheduled for the following days: April 9 to 10, April 24, May 15. Bring a lunch and water bottle with you when you come, and plan to arrive at the North cabin area to check in around 9:00 am. Email office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to volunteer for this project.  Let us know by the Tuesday before!
4,  Looking for kitchen staff and nurses!  Camp Mennoscah is filling volunteer and stipend positions for kitchen staff and nurses for the upcoming 2021 summer. Contact Camp Mennoscah at office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 for available weeks and details. Kitchen staff can receive a scholarship up to full camp fees for their camper.

Mennonite church announcements
1. Bethel College Women’s Association invites donations to help purchase two earth-friendly water refill stations for the Bethel campus. The stations will accommodate water bottles, and cost $890 each. Donate at bcwamarketonline.com by April 30, 2021. Thank you for your support!
2. Interested in short-term service opportunities? Ask us about SOOP! We’d love to speak with your congregation about the awesome service opportunities that we can provide through SOOP. Contact LaurenEH@MennoniteMission.net for more information.
3. Serve with Literacy Connects through MVS in Tucson! Help connect people of all ages to a world of opportunities through literacy and creative expression. Visit MennoniteMission.net/MVS to learn more.
4. After living in sanctuary at Columbus (Ohio) Mennonite Church for three years, Edith Espinal was finally able to move back into her own home with her family in February. Celebrate with the Espinal family by reading Edith Espinal’s story here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/news/edith-espinal/
5. The Mennonite Church USA Constituency Leaders Council (CLC) recently met and provided feedback on four proposed resolutions, concerning the denomination’s Membership Guidelines, inclusion of LGBTQIA people, accessibility for people with disabilities, and justice in the U.S. criminal legal system. Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/clc-resolutions
6. Please pray for the Executive Board of Mennonite Church USA, which is gathering for a virtual meeting on April 16-17. The Executive Board meets two or three times per year, setting the vision and guiding the direction of the denomination.
7. Read Mennonite Church USA’s convention newsletter to meet the worship team for MennoCon21 and get the latest updates on Mennonite Church USA’s first hybrid convention to be held in Cincinnati, Ohio, and online on July 6-8 8. https://www.mennoniteusa.org/mennocon21-march-letter

Hesston College Event:Spring Play: Superior Donuts – Presented in the Black Box Theater in Keim Center at Hesston College – April 14-17, 7:00pm and April 18, 2:00pm – Tickets are $10 per adults/seniors and $5 for students and can be purchased at: www.hesston.edu/theatre

Announcements for April 4-April 11, 2021

Drive-Thru Soup FundraiserThe sr high youth drive-thru soup fundraiser has been rescheduled for Sunday, April 11th from 11:30am-1:00pm. Orders are still recorded from earlier RSVP’s. If you would like to order soup and had not done so previously, you can using this link. Please contact Renee at renee@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org if you have any questions. All proceeds for this fundraiser will help support the sr high youth going on a Civil Rights Learning Tour in Alabama this summer. Thank you for your support!

Holy Hilarity Sunday is April 11
A Holy Hilarity Sunday is scheduled for April 11th and we are looking for some good church jokes to include throughout Sunday’s service! Many Christian churches celebrate Holy Hilarity Sunday the Sunday after Easter as a way to celebrate the resurrection of Christ. This year we will again celebrate a day of joy and laughter together, remembering the great joy that comes with the risen Christ. Send your jokes to renee@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org by Easter Monday (April 5th) for a chance for them to be incorporated in a service of joy and laughter on April 11th.

The MC USA biennial convention will take place in July 6-10, 2021 in Cincinnati, Ohio. While a limited number of persons will be allowed to participate in-person, any registrant can participate virtually from home–joining in worship, participating in seminars and exploring the exhibition hall. You can register here, after April 6: https://convention.mennoniteusa.org/

A Conversation About Justice & Peace for Palestine & Israel: The Western District Conference Israel – Palestine Task Force is hosting an informal Conversation About Justice & Peace for Palestine & Israel. The one-hour Zoom meeting will occur on April 13 from 7 – 8 pm CDT. The purpose of the meeting is to create a safe space where informal dialogue can occur with WDC Mennonite Churches. Esther Koontz will provide a welcome & overview, Bob Atchison, reflections on Manhattan Mennonite Church’s Gaza Twinning project, and Jonathan Kuttab a report on current conditions in Gaza and the West Bank. Participants will be divided into breakout groups where discussions will take place facilitated by Joe Roos, Lydia Brenneman, Kathy Neufeld Dunn and the other presenters. There is no cost to participate. To register for the meeting please e-mail to wdc@mennowdc.org. A Zoom link will be provided. Additional information may be obtained by contacting Kathy Nuefeld Dunn at kathynd@mennowdc.org.

Hesston College Event
Spring Play: Superior Donuts – Presented in the Black Box Theater in Keim Center at Hesston College – April 14-17, 7:00pm and April 18, 2:00pm – Tickets are $10 per adults/seniors and $5 for students and can be purchased at: www.hesston.edu/theatre

Western District Conference Announcements
1. Due to Covid-19 concerns, the WDC staff has worked from their homes for the last several months. Now, with lower positivity rates and vaccine availability, the WDC office plans to again be open beginning Tuesday, April 6 at 8 am. Visitor protocols will include wearing a mask and social distancing from others. Hand sanitizers will also be available. At this time, Resource Library materials will be available by lobby pick up only, but it is hoped that patrons will be able to enter the library again soon.
2. Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church, Goessel, KS, is pleased to host the Service of Ordination for Lead Pastor Caleb Yoder on Sunday, April 11, at 4:00 pm. COVID precautions will be followed, including social distancing, required masks, and no congregational singing. A quartet will sing from the stage. Guests are welcome to join by livestream; email alexmenno@mtelco.net for the Zoom link.

Camp Mennoscah announcements
1. 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.
2.  Men and Boys Retreat, April 16-18, at Camp Mennoscah! Come to Camp Mennoscah for this long-standing, guys-only retreat! Spend time fishing, canoeing, worshiping, sitting by the fire, or visiting with friends in fellowship. The official beginning to the weekend is Saturday morning, but many arrive on Friday. Meals can be purchased for Saturday night, Sunday morning and lunch. People are welcome Friday, but no meals or entertainment will be provided. Meals available for an additional cost. No pre-registration. Registration and payment will take place upon arrival. For more information contact Kevin Neufeld at 316-322-5515.
3.  2021 Summer Staff!  Camp Mennoscah’s summer staffers are Anna Lubbers, Beth Balzer, Karina Brandt, Emily Brandt, Schyler Entz, Ethan Entz, Seth Rudeen, Ben Rudeen, and John Koontz. We are excited to have them be part of the summer camp staff and they are ready for an absolutely rootin’, tootin’ summer! Start your prayers now for these staffers and for all who are part of the summer youth program!
4.  Looking for HUGE tents! Camp Mennoscah is looking for at least 2 more tents that hold approx. 8-10 bunk beds for summer youth camps (18′ X 36′). These would be (similar) to the ones used for Senior High Camp (military tents repurposed for peace). The cost to purchase one is approximately $2600. If you have one stored away and are willing to lend it to Camp Mennoscah for the summer, please contact us at 620-297-3290.
5.  It’s time to finish the Campfire Amphitheater at Camp Mennoscah!  We’d like to have this ready for the summer youth camps. Work days are scheduled for the following days: April 2-3, April 9 to 10, April 24, May 15. Come out for one or both days and part or all-day. Ask about lodging if you would like to stay overnight. A team of five volunteers will work from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm each day installing the new stone benches. There will be stone to cut, move, clean and set along with a whole lot of mortar to mix up. Bring a lunch and water bottle with you when you come, and plan to arrive at the North cabin area to check in around 9:00 am. Email office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to volunteer for this project.  Let us know by the Tuesday before!
6.  Looking for kitchen staff and nurses!  Camp Mennoscah is filling volunteer and stipend positions for kitchen staff and nurses for the upcoming 2021 summer. Contact Camp Mennoscah at office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 for available weeks and details. Kitchen staff can receive a scholarship up to full camp fees for their camper.

Mennonite church announcements
1. Join Michael Danner, Mennonite Church USA’s associate executive director of Church Vitality, in a webinar April 8 at 7 p.m. ET, as he interviews Elain Enns and Ched Myers, authors of “Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler Discipleship of Decolonization.” Register here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/registration-decolonization
2. SeongHan Kim, in his blog, “Walk out from the military base nation,” recounts how the construction of a Republic of Korea naval base on Jeju Island, Korea — and its connection to the U.S. military — has affected the lives of those Koreans who live in that region. Read his take on the Cost of War here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/base-walk-out
3. Allegheny Mennonite Conference (AMC) is offering a matching grant of up to $15,000 for donations made to Mennonite Church USA’s Justice Fund, a mutual aid fund that supports MC USA congregations’ work toward social justice. Find out more about AMC’s contribution and how your congregation can get involved at https://www.mennoniteusa.org/news/justice-fund-match/.
4. Registration for MennoCon21 opens April 6 for in-person and online attendance. Learn more here: https://convention.mennoniteusa.org/registration/
5 . Want to be an integral part of a young adult’s life? Become a unit leader for Service Adventure, a gap-year program for ages 17-20 from Mennonite Mission Network. Unit leaders, who are at least 24 years of age, serve as mentors to the young adults in the Service Adventure household. Leaders are needed in Colorado Springs, CO and Johnstown, PA. Learn more by contacting SusanN@MennoniteMission.net.

Newton Et Cetera Shop is grateful for your donated items, your volunteer time, and your shopping enthusiasm! We have three requests for you this spring:
1. Please let your friends and neighbors know we’re hiring a full-time Home Goods Manager! The job description and applications are available on our website (newtonetceterashop.com) and at our shop; applications are due April 19, 2021.
2. We are in need of high-quality furniture, toys and home goods at this time. Our current donation schedule is the first and third Wednesday of each month, 9:30-6:00, and we hope to add Wednesdays in April and May.
3. We welcome new volunteers! Amazingly, we welcomed the same number of new volunteers (40!) in 2020 in the midst of a pandemic, as we did in 2019! If you’re interested in learning more, please visit our website or facebook page, send us an email expressing interest to manager@newtonetceterashop.com, or call us at 316-283-9461. Thank you for supporting your local MCC Thrift Shop!

The link to the April issue of Prayers for Mennonite Education is below. This is a monthly prayer resource prepared by Mennonite Education Agency (MEA), the education agency of Mennonite Church USA. These prayer requests were gathered from across Mennonite education, from early childhood – grade 12, undergraduate schools, graduate schools and seminaries, and MEA’s Hispanic Ministries’ seminary and Bible institute. By partnering with these schools and helping them flourish, MEA works to strengthen the church through education. Thank you for supporting our schools through prayer.
Prayers for Mennonite Education – April 2021

Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp Announcements
The Rocky Mountain April 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”.
SPRUCE BEETLE PACKET WORKDAY APRIL 17TH – Since 2015, camp has continued the effort to minimize the impact of the spruce beetle’s desire to make a home and reproduce in the mature Engelmann spruce trees here at RMMC. Pheromone packets disbursed around camp facilities are intended to “communicate” to the beetles that camp’s part of the forest has a “no vacancy” sign and they should move on elsewhere. Please signup to come help with this year’s distribution by visiting our Volunteer page and select “Signup for Maintenance“. Friday night accommodations are offered by request and breakfast will be served Saturday morning at 8:00 a.m. and lunch at 12:30 p.m. Hope to have you join us!

SPRING MENNONITE QUILTERS RETREAT – Camp’s first quilters retreat for 2021 coming April 22-25. These retreats are a great opportunity to get away and get those projects done that have been waiting. While there will be some short, fun breaks, the main focus of this weekend will be giving participants plenty of time to sew. Bring lots of projects, or that one big project you’ve been waiting to start. Sharing ideas, tips and techniques are part of the weekend along with bringing any show and tell items to share with the group. To register, please visit the camp website at www.rmmc.org.

Mennonite Central Committee Announcement
There is still time to register for this year’s virtual Ecumenical Advocacy Days taking place from April 18-21! Register by April 7th to receive the early bird discount on the registration fee. If the cost of attending is prohibitive, there is a student and limited income registration option.

Learn more and register!

Ecumenical Advocacy Days is a space where people of all denominations gather to worship, engage in fellowship, and advocate to their members of Congress. First-time advocates are welcome! This year, the theme is “Imagine! God’s Earth and People Restored.” The conference will center around climate justice and our role as Christians in advocating for equitable access to a safe and healthy planet.

Throughout the conference, you can join a variety of engaging workshops, including two facilitated by MCC U.S. Washington Office staff:

Climate change as a driver of forced migration from Central America
The impact of border walls on endangered species and sacred lands

Finally, during Ecumenical Advocacy Days’ time for denominational gatherings, we hope you’ll join a gathering of Anabaptists to share stories and inspiration and hear what others are doing.

Join KIPCOR LIVE ONLINE for
Part 2 of
2020-2021
Peace Lecture Series
featuring Leonard Pitts Jr.
Mr. Pitts spoke on the Bethel College campus in 2017 to the largest audience since KIPCOR hosted Martin Luther King Jr., and will be presenting live online (via Zoom Webinar) in a sequel to that 2017 KIPCOR Peace Lecture, sharing his thoughts on, “Is America Possible?” The event is free of charge (although we will be asking for voluntary donations to support our work and to cover the cost of the lecture) and you can sign up to receive the Zoom link to participate at https://kipcor.org/