Category Archives: Announcements

Announcements for November 7-14, 2021

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

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

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

Faith Formation at BCMC
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
Children and youth Sunday School classes! 10:30-11:30 am.
Preschoolers – Room B4 Middlers (3rd-8th graders) – Room 26
High School – Room 24
Koinonia (college students welcome!) – The Agape House
The Agape Class will meet in Room B8
All other adult classes begin at 10:30 am
All Sunday school classrooms in the church will be open

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

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

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

BCMC COMMUNITY NEWS

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

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

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

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

LOCAL SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES and NEWS

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

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

BETHEL COLLEGE NEWS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Camp Mennoscah events and happenings:

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

For Mennonite Creation Care Network press here

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

For Mennonite Central Committee In Touch press here

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

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

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

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

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

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

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

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

Announcements for October 31-November 7, 2021

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

BCMC COMMUNITY NEWS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LOCAL SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES and NEWS

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

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

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

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

Sat., Nov. 6 – Kauffman Museum first-Saturday bird walk, 8 a.m. start time in the museum parking lot at the corner of Main and 27th streets in North Newton. Experienced birders lead a walk of 1-1.5 hours in Chisholm Park and on Sand Creek Trail (terrain is mostly wood-chip path and sometimes uneven/sloping).

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

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

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

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

CAMP MENNOSCAH NEWS

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

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

Other events and happenings:

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

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

Mennonite Central Committee Announcements

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mennonite World Conference Info press here

Mennonite Mission Network News from Around the World press here

Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

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

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

Announcements for October 24-31, 2021

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

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

BCMC COMMUNITY NEWS

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

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

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

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

Richard Friesen Email: richard.friesen@cox.net

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

LOCAL SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES and NEWS

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

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

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

BETHEL COLLEGE NEWS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CAMP MENNOSCAH NEWS

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

Mennonite Disaster Service Region 3 Annual Meeting information click here

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

Mennonite Men announcements click here

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

Announcements:

Stories:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HESSTON COLLEGE NEWS

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

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

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

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

Announcements for October 3-10, 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other events and happenings:

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

For Mennonite Mission Network Service Adventure press here

For Mennonite Creation Care Network Newsletter press here

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Hesston College Events

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Announcements for September 26-October 3, 2021

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

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

Jazz and Charcuterie on the Lawn

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other events and happenings:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mennonite Central Committee Announcements

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

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

Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Mennonite Men press here

Mennonite Mission Network New from Around the World press here

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

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

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

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

Announcements for September 19-26, 2021

Jazz and Charcuterie on the Lawn

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

– Florence Schloneger

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

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

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

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

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

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

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond click here

Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level click here

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

Announcements for September 12–September 19, 2021

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

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

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

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

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

2. May 2, 2021 congregational meeting minutes – Elizabeth

3. Financial report – Michael Claassen, Finance Manager

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

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

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

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

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

7. Technology Task Group update – Bill Swartley

8. Columbarium Expansion Task Group update – Glen Ediger

9.   Other items?

10. Closing Prayer – Pastor Dawn

Press here for the agenda in pdf form.

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

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

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

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

REOPENING CHURCH TASK GROUP UPDATE:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Announcements:

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

Events:

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

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

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

Other events and happenings:

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

Mennonite Central Committee In Touch Newsletter click here

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

Announcements for September 5–September 12, 2021

BCMC Congregational meeting is September 12
MARK YOUR CALENDARS now for the BCMC Congregational meeting, Sept 12, 1pm, via Zoom. The agenda follows and the Zoom link for the meeting is below.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82804063690?pwd=cGF5TGViUUFYK2R3MmhnblZPVVIyQT09

Meeting ID: 828 0406 3690
Passcode: 084634

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
Congregational Meeting Agenda
Sunday, September 12, 2021, 1 pm, via ZOOM

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

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

2. May 2, 2021 congregational meeting minutes – Elizabeth

3. Financial report – Michael Claassen, Finance Manager

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

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

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

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

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

7. Technology Task Group update – Bill Swartley

8. Columbarium Expansion Task Group update – Glen Ediger

9.   Other items?

10. Closing Prayer – Pastor Dawn

Press here for the agenda in pdf form.

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

Staff Absences for the coming weeks
Pastor Renee Reimer will be gone from September 3 to 7
Pastor Dawn Yoder Harms will be gone from September 6-11
Pastor Nathan Koontz will be gone from September 10-12

This coming Sunday, September 5, is the first Sunday of the month
You are invited to contribute non-perishable food for the local Salvation Army food pantry. On the first Sunday of the month, (in this case – September 5) bring items to BCMC and place them on the kitchen cart in the south entrance.

REOPENING CHURCH TASK GROUP UPDATE:

We will continue to gather for worship via livestream and in-person (with masks and keeping distance).

Faith Formation classes will begin on Sept 12, as classes feel comfortable to meet (masked when meeting indoors). Please do not come to in-person gatherings if you are not feeling well.

You can find current BCMC COVID-19 guidelines on BCMC’s website by following this link: BCMC during COVID-19 – Bethel College Mennonite Church.

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

Support Mennonite Central Committee, get to know the new hymnal and enjoy refreshments in a family-friendly hymn sing fundraiser September 11 at “Voices (and Pints) Together” on the New Creation Fellowship Church lawn in Newton. Locally produced beers, wines and nonalcoholic beverages will be available to sample during a 6:06 p.m. fellowship hour of bluegrass music featuring The Flannelbacks preceding the 7 p.m. outdoor hymn sing. More information is on Facebook here. Song requests can be submitted (with a donation) until September 6th by using this google form link.

Prayer for Haiti and Afghanistan
Prayer for Haiti and Afghanistan | Mennonite Church USA (mennoniteusa.org)

Now in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College: “Doing Good with Wood,” turned wood by Rick McNary, through Sept. 17. Gallery hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Fri., Sun, 2-4 p.m. Bethel’s current COVID-19 protocols require mask-wearing indoors, and physical distancing to the extent possible, regardless of vaccination status.

Mennonites Central Committee Announcements
Mennonite Central Committee has a variety of service opportunities all around the world and the following opportunities are especially important to fill at this time. Please contact Heidi Huber with questions at heidihuber@mcc.org or 316.283.2720.
Organizational development and Racial Equity Director
This role will lead MCCs in the US (four regional entities and a national team) in racial equity work through organizational development and change management, toward the goal to reflect the full participation of our diverse constituents in every aspect of our mission, programs, policies and practices. This role will inspire, mobilize and coordinate practical and professional equipping to remove barriers and move MCCs in the US forward to more fully reflect God’s desire for God’s people. For more information or to apply, visit:https://mcc.org/get-involved/serve/openings/organizational-development-racial-equity-director

MCC Representative for Haiti
Are you interesting in providing leadership and programmatic direction to MCC’s work in Haiti? This role maintains relationships with MCC partners and is responsible for providing team leadership and support for MCC workers in Haiti. For more information or to apply, visit:https://mcc.org/get-involved/serve/openings/mcc-representative-haiti

Seed Community Development Worker
MCC’s Seed program has positions available now in Bolivia! The Seed program is perfect for young adults (18-30) who value service, community, and cultural exchange addressing systemic issues like food insecurity and climate change through grassroots, community-based initiatives. For more information or to apply, visit:https://mcc.org/get-involved/serve/openings/seed-community-development-worker-bolivia

Canner Operator
Are you a traveler? Do you like to meet new people? Do you like to serve others? Every year MCC’s Mobile Meat Canner travels across the United States and Canada meeting volunteers who prepare cans of turkey, beef, chicken and pork to be sent around the world. More than 30,000 people a year volunteer to fill, weigh, wash and label every can. Apply to be a canner! For more information or to apply, visit: https://mcc.org/get-involved/serve/openings/canner-operator-4

Thank you for your generous support of the Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale! Just recently, the relief sale board gave MCC a check for $500,000 from the sale that took place in July! Thank you for donating your time and energy, making and buying food, donating and bidding on cars, furniture, quilts and art to support the Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale. In the past 14 months the Kansas sale has donated just under $1 million (all during a pandemic!) to support the worldwide work of MCC. Your support becomes food for the hungry, water for the thirsty, and locally owned projects that address barriers to human flourishing, thank you.

Updated WDC office hours – https://mennowdc.org/updated-wdc-office-hours/

Final Thursday book discussion – https://mennowdc.org/wdc-final-thursday-book-discussion-2/
MC USA announcements – https://mennowdc.org/mennonite-church-usa-announcements/
MC USA Executive Board staff positions open – https://mennowdc.org/open-positions-within-mennonite-church-usa-executive-board-staff/
Save the Date-IBA (Instituto Bíblico Anabautista) Burrito Sale – https://mennowdc.org/save-the-date-iba-instituto-biblico-anabautista-burrito-sale/
50th Anniversary Celebration-Peace Mennonite Church (Dallas, TX) – https://mennowdc.org/50th-anniversary-celebration-peace-mennonite-church-dallas-tx/
Ministerial/Credential Updates – https://mennowdc.org/credential-updates/

News and Stories:

Thank you, Nancy Funk! – https://mennowdc.org/thank-you-nancy-funk/
Welcome, Michelle Schrag – https://mennowdc.org/welcome-to-michelle-schrag-wdcs-new-administrative-assistant/
River Reflections by Heidi Regier Kreider – https://mennowdc.org/river-reflections/

Upcoming Events:

Women’s Retreat 2021 – https://mennowdc.org/womens-retreat-2021/

Everence to hold Social Security and retirement income planning webinar
Everence will host a Social Security and retirement income planning webinar, on Tuesday, Sept. 14 at 6:30 p.m. Attendees will learn about Social Security strategies, risks that can impact retirement savings and strategies to help income last throughout retirement. This online workshop is free. Register soon by contacting our office at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com.
Advisory services offered through Concourse Financial Group Advisors, a division of Concourse Financial Group Securities, a Registered Investment Advisor. Securities offered through Concourse Financial Group Securities, a registered broker-dealer and member of FINRA and SIPC. Investments and other products are not NCUA or otherwise federally insured, may involve loss of principal and have no credit union guarantee.
Products and services offered through Everence Trust Company and other Everence entities are independent of and are not guaranteed or endorsed by Concourse Financial Group Securities, or its affiliates.

Mennonite Men Announcements
On Oct. 26, Nov. 6, and Nov. 16, Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary and Mennonite Men are co-sponsoring Knowing Your Narrative: Unpacking Our Stories of Masculinity and Equity. This three-part series of events, facilitated by Ben Tapper with the Kindred Collective, seeks to unpack narratives around masculinity, faith, and equity.
After completing the series, participants will be able to coherently articulate their own personal narratives, identify the ways they’ve been shaped by masculine messaging, and reframe their own masculine identity so it is more inclusive and holistic. For more info and to register visit ambs.edu/narrative.”

We are putting the finishing touches on our new book, Strong, Loving, and Wise: Joining Conversations for Men. This book is a guide for men covering topics such as male formation, sexual wholeness, conflict tools, and life roles, just to name a few. It includes reflection questions and resources that make it an ideal book for men’s groups, Sunday School classes, and other group settings.
Check out the pre-release of Strong, Loving, and Wise at this link.

For Mennonite Creation Care Network Newsletter click here

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond click here

The Rocky Mountain September 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: This week, Amanda and Tyler Yoder, and their two toddlers, began a year-long SOOP assignment, through Mennonite Mission Network at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp in Colorado. Pray for them as they work alongside camp staff in hosting, maintenance and wherever else they are needed
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for God’s faithfulness with WDC congregation Buhler (KS) Mennonite Church, as they celebrate their centennial today and look forward to fruitful ministry in the future!

Announcements for August 29–September 5, 2021

This week at BCMC

Monday, August 30
8 am to 10 am  Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2 pm to 3 pm    Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
Tuesday, August 31
7 pm  Reopening Church Task Force
Wednesday, September 1
8 am to 10 am Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2 pm to 3 pm    Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
3 pm                   Advent Planning—Room 14
4:30 pm             Visual Arts Committee Meeting
Thursday, September 2
7 pm Church Board Meeting—by Zoom
Friday, September 3
8 am to 10 am  Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2 pm to 3 pm    Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
Sunday, September 5
9:30 am   Worship Service in the Sanctuary
Monday, September 6—Labor Day
Church will be locked; office closed for the Labor Day Holiday

Safe Sanctuary Training will be offered at 3 different times for volunteers working with children and youth (Sunday school teachers, sponsors, club leaders, and mentors). Volunteers will have the option of attending one of the following trainings: Sunday August 29th at 10:30am in the fellowship hall, Sunday, September 12th at 10:30am in the sanctuary, or Sunday, September 26th at 7pm on zoom. While this 1 hour training is required for all people working with children and youth each year, others from BCMC are invited to attend this training as well to learn more about abuse prevention and how to model good boundaries in our relationships with one another.

P.A. Operators Needed at BCMC
Our public address operators here at BCMC (Ken Lamp, Ben Lichti, Francis Toews) have been working tirelessly to live-stream worship services, funerals, and other events. But they could use some help. If you have an interest in being a BCMC P.A. operator, please contact the church office. The current public address operators would be glad to teach you how to use the p.a. system.

New Hearing Assist System
BCMC has installed a new hearing assist system for those with blue-tooth enabled hearing aids. An information and instruction sheet is at the rear of the sanctuary.

Staff Absences
Pastor Renee Reimer will be gone from September 3 to 7
Pastor Dawn Yoder Harms will be gone from September 6-10
Pastor Nathan Koontz will be gone from September 10-12

Address and Phone Changes
Helen Bertrand – new phone number – 316-284-2900 ext. 4541
Chuck and Pat Friesen – new address – 3010 S. 72nd Street, #44, Lincoln, NE 68506
Mark Kreider – new address – 402 S. 3rd St., W., Missoula, MT 59801; Email markkreider1@gmail.com

We offer sympathy to Chuck and Pat Friesen and their extended family on the death of Chuck’s mother, Martha (Klippenstein) Friesen, Thursday, August 26. She was 100 years old. A memorial service will be held in Henderson, NE at a later time. (See Chuck and Pat Friesen’s new address listed above.)

The BCMC 2021 Directory (used to be called the BCMC Yearbook) will be printed in September. If you have address or contact (phone, email, cell phone) changes, please call or email the church office.

You are invited to contribute non-perishable food for the local Salvation Army food pantry. On the first Sunday of the month, (in this case – September 5) bring items to BCMC and place them on the kitchen cart in the south entrance.

Western District Conference Announcement
Please refer to the WDC website at https://mennowdc.org/2021-wdc-annual-assembly/ for information regarding the 2021 WDC Assembly delegate session, including the minutes, the approved 2022 budget, the election results, and the certified delegates.

Bethel College Announcements
Today (Sun., Aug. 29) – Sunday-Afternoon-from-the-Museum program sponsored by Kauffman Museum, 3 p.m. via Zoom/Facebook Live, with Lorrie Kessler of the Harvey County Health Department. Kessler will talk about tobacco company advertising over the past century-plus, and how it has created health disparities, in conjunction with the museum’s special exhibit “Vapes: Marketing an Addiction.” To attend, go to https://fb.me/e/18FKJYNv4, the Kauffman Museum Facebook page, or the “Visit” tab (click “Events”) at https://kauffmanmuseum.org, at 3 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 4 – Kauffman Museum’s monthly bird walk will be a special event in cooperation with the Kansas Humanities Council: a book and poetry walk with Megan Kaminski and Molly Zahn from the University of Kansas. Start time: 9:30 a.m. at the museum’s front door. For more information, call 316-283-1612 or e-mail kauffman@bethelks.edu

Sunday, Sept. 12 – KIPCOR Film Series resumes live, with The Prison Within, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Individuals incarcerated in San Quentin Prison and charged with murder take a journey of redemption through participation in a restorative justice program. Talk-back to follow. Bethel’s COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors regardless of vaccination status.

Save the date: Mark McCormick, director of strategic communications for the ACLU of Kansas, will give the next KIPCOR Peace Lecture, Thursday, Sept. 30, 7 p.m., on the Bethel campus as part of Bethel’s Fall Festival. Details to come!

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

September 26 is a Camp Mennoscah Combo! It’s the Hymn Sing-Dessert Auction and Annual Meeting all in one! There are still details to be determined, but plan on some hymn singing (masked & distanced), bidding on delectable desserts, and information about Camp Mennoscah’s year. We’ll keep the details coming your way!
There are volunteer opportunities for you! Camp Mennoscah has year-round work to support the maintenance and upkeep of the campus and facilities. We can accommodate every group size, skill set and length of project you would like to tackle. Check out these ways to Get Involved! Email office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to volunteer.
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.
Camp Mennoscah also has openings for a part-time custodial/housekeeping position (10 hours) and a part-time office/administrative position (30 hours). Contact Olivia at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for more information.
Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp Announcement

Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp is delighted to report (vs. promote) that all Labor Work and Play Retreat weekend volunteers spaces have already been filled to capacity. The weekend is offered as a day of work (Sat. or Sun.) and a day of play (Sat. or Sun.) with a Monday morning sendoff. This year (September 3-6, 2021), two church groups will be served (foodservice & housekeeping) which will require the majority of volunteer help along with additional work projects here/there for ongoing care of facilities & grounds. The next opportunity is Memorial Day Work & Play Retreat scheduled May 27-30, 2022. A friendly reminder that all camp programs are available for online registration the day after the previous year’s program has concluded for continuity and equal opportunity to sign-up.

Colorado Mennonite Disaster Service and Rocky Mountain Mountain Mennonite Camp continue their critical partnership in the ongoing effort to remove beetle infested Engelmann Spruce trees and forest thinning for fire mitigation project. Ten volunteers are needed each day to accomplish the variety of tasks at hand including chipping slash and moving timber. Volunteers for foodservice are also welcomed and encouraged to help in support of the weeks efforts. Please visit the volunteer page at www.rmmc.org and select “Signup for Maintenance” or “Signup for Foodservice” to register for the week or for the days you are able to come. For additional information, please contact Paul Unruh (phunruh@gmail.com, 316-772-6308) or Marc Yoder (marcyoder1@gmail.com, 719-942-3276).

Registration Open – Mennonite Healthcare Fellowship Annual Gathering, Online: September 17-19, 2021

Mennonite Health Fellowship (MHF) is hosting its virtual Annual Gathering in September. All with an interest in healthcare from a faith perspective are welcome to attend, and all MHF members are encouraged to attend at least part of the weekend. Registration and information are on the MHF website at www.mennohealth.org. The theme for the weekend is Fostering Provider Resilience with a special 2-hour Introduction to Strategies for Trauma Awareness and Resilience (STAR) in partnership with Minnesota Peacebuilding Leadership Institute. MHF is open to those serving in all areas of healthcare, including mental health, public health, health administration, and more. Register today! We look forward to connecting with you!

Mennonite Mission Network News from Around the World press here

Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond presshere

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Join the denomination-wide “CommonRead.” Mennonite Church USA, Mennonite Church Canada and Herald Press are partnering to encourage every Mennonite to read carefully selected books to equip the church during this time. This fall, the CommonRead book is “Tongue-Tied: Learning the Lost Art of Talking About Faith” by Sara Wenger Shenk. Learn more here. www.commonread.org

Jeanne Davies, executive director of Anabaptist Disability Network, presented a seminar at MennoCon21, titled “Worship for All.” She offered attendees ideas on how to make worship services accessible to all people, including those with intellectual disabilities and autism. Read about her ideas here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/news/worship-for-all/.

#BringThePeace
Dona Park is one of two women to receive the first Mennonite Church USA (MC USA) #BringThePeace award. MC USA News Editor Camille Dager interviewed Park about her experiences using art to build peace. Read a transcript of the interview here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/interview-dona-park

#BeTransformed
In his blog, “Message from a friend,” Wil LaVeist , Mennonite Church USA’s chief communications officer, shares a touching story of transformation through personal hardship and a special feathered friend. Read more here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/message-from-friend.

Menno Snapshots
Anna Groff of Dove’s Nest wrote, “Don’t bury the lead: Abuse in your congregation,” a blog in which she explains how Dove’s Nest can help prepare congregations to communicate effectively about abuse that has occurred within the church or by a church member. Read more about how to handle such a situation here: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/abuse-congregation.

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Joseph and Rachel Givens, and their two sons, are preparing to serve in Calais, France, with Mennonite Mission Network. Pray that God will provide the necessary resources for them to join the team that offers shelter to African and Middle Eastern people who are seeking temporary refuge before entering the United Kingdom.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for God’s wisdom and joy for WDC staff members as they seek to encourage congregations and leaders in ministry.

Announcements for August 22-29, 2021

The BCMC 2021 Directory (used to be called the BCMC Yearbook) will be printed in September. If you have address or contact (phone, email, cell phone) changes, please call or email the church office.

BCMC becomes a classroom
Bethel College Mennonite Church will be assisting Bethel College by providing class room space in the BCMC Sanctuary on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays for the fall semester. On these days there will be classes from 8 am to 10 am and 2 pm to 4 pm. You should avoid coming in the south (glass) doors of the church on those days because you will find yourself at the back of a classroom. If you wish to come to the church on those days, please use the front double doors, or the door closest to the office on the northwest corner. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, you can enter through the south doors.

This week at BCMC
Monday, August 23
8 am to 10 am  Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2 pm to 4 pm    Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
Tuesday, August 24
7 pm  Abuse Prevention and Response Committee Meeting
7 pm Decoration Committee Meeting
Wednesday, August 25
8 am to 10 am Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2 pm to 4 pm    Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
Thursday, August 26
2 pm  Hospitality Commission Meeting–Fellowship Hall
Friday, August 27
8 am to 10 am  Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
2 pm to 4 pm    Bethel College Classes in the Sanctuary
Sunday, August 29
9:30 am   Worship Service in the Sanctuary
10:30 am Safe Sanctuary Training
11:30 am  Sunday School Teacher Orientation

Staff Absence
Pastor Renee Reimer will be on vacation from August 23-28.

Upcoming memorial service: Rosalind Andreas: Saturday, Aug 21, 1:30 pm, BCMC Sanctuary
You are welcome to attend this service in-person. It will also be recorded and live streamed. For live streaming of the service, click here.

The Faith Formation program year will start up again after Labor Day. This means that Sunday School for all children and youth (Preschool Sunday School, Middler Sunday School, and Sr High Sunday School) will begin on Sunday, September 12th, Wednesday Night Club for 3rd-8th graders will begin on Wednesday, September 8th, and Sr High Youth Group for 9th-12th graders will begin on Wednesday, September 8th.

We extend our sympathy to Dale and Margo Schrag, upon the death of Dale’s brother, Dwayne. Dwane died yesterday (Aug 18) in Wichita, following a long illness, and is survived by his wife, Sandy.

UPDATE: BCMC during COVID-19
In light of the current high level of community COVID-19 transmission in Harvey County (per the CDC) and what we are learning about the Delta variant (it can be spread by those vaccinated), the Reopening Task Group has revised safety guidelines for life at BCMC. You can find them here.

Parking at BCMC
Bethel College students will be encouraged to leave parking spaces open around the church on Sundays for BCMC parking. In addition, on Sunday mornings parking is available for BCMCers in 1) the Fine Arts Center parking lot, and 2) the grassy parking lot just south of the paved Warkentin Courts lot. If you can easily walk this distance, we encourage you to use those spaces in consideration of those with mobility issues.

New Hope Shelter
BCMC and Faith Church will be providing volunteers and meals at New Hope Shelter beginning Wednesday, Aug. 25 through Tuesday, Aug. 31. Please consider this opportunity to serve. There will be a volunteer training for new volunteers on Thursday, Aug. 19 from 7-8:30 PM. If you would like to attend, please contact Valetta Seymour by Tuesday, Aug. 17. seymour2314@gmail.com or 620-217-7536.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Community Playschool Inc. is seeking volunteer teachers and classroom helpers. If you feel that you might have an interest and are willing to commit to a few hours, or two mornings a week, these are current needs:
2 classroom helpers on Tuesday/Thursday
1 Center helper (snack and greeting kids) on Wednesday and Friday
Several substitutes
If you feel that you might have an interest and are willing to commit to a few hours, two mornings a week, or would like more information, please contact Kasey Newell, Director at Community Playschool, 316-283-3667.

Library News from BCMC
The Library Theme for the next couple of months is Creation Care/Nature. We have many wonderful books to browse through/read. Please come check out our display behind the desk and on the cart in front of the desk. The children’s section’s books are displayed on the book trays on the south side of the room, while the Junior Section have their books displayed around their shelving area. We didn’t pull all of the books on this subject (there are many!), so feel free to look this subject up on our library website. You may just find one that you would like to read.

Bethel College Announcements
1. Save the date: Mark McCormick, director of strategic communications for the ACLU of Kansas, will give the next KIPCOR Peace Lecture, Thursday, Sept. 30, on the Bethel campus as part of Bethel’s Fall Festival. Details to come!
2. Saturday, Sept. 4 – Kauffman Museum’s monthly bird walk will be a special event in cooperation with the Kansas Humanities Council: a book and poetry walk with Megan Kaminski and Molly Zahn from the University of Kansas. Start time: 9:30 a.m. at the museum’s front door. For more information, call 316-283-1612 or e-mail kauffman@bethelks.edu
3. Sunday, Sept. 12 – KIPCOR Film Series resumes live, with The Prison Within, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Individuals incarcerated in San Quentin Prison and charged with murder take a journey of redemption through participation in a restorative justice program. Talk-back to follow. Bethel’s COVID-19 protocols require physical distancing and mask-wearing indoors regardless of vaccination status.

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

Helping Children Through Books – https://mennowdc.org/helping-children-through-books/
Youth Sponsor Appreciation and Resourcing Event on Aug 22 – https://mennowdc.org/youth-sponsor-appreciation/
Prayer requests for August – https://mennowdc.org/wdc-prayer-requests-august-2021/
Western District Women in Mission annual Women’s Retreat, Sept 11-12 at Camp Mennoscah – https://mennowdc.org/2021-womens-retreat/
Immigration Task Force recommends MCC Basic Immigration Law Training, Sept 13-17 – https://mennowdc.org/basic-immigration-law-training/
Bethel College Worship and Arts Symposium coming up Nov 5-8 – https://mennowdc.org/bethel-college-biennial-worship-and-the-arts-symposium/

Mennonite Central Committee Announcements

1. Support Mennonite Central Committee, get to know the new hymnal and enjoy refreshments in a family-friendly hymn sing fundraiser September 11 at “Voices (and Pints) Together” on the New Creation Fellowship Church lawn in Newton. Locally produced beers, wines and nonalcoholic beverages will be available to sample during a 6:06 p.m. fellowship hour of bluegrass music featuring The Flannelbacks preceding the 7 p.m. outdoor hymn sing. More information is on Facebook here. Song requests can be submitted (with a donation) until September 6th by using this google form link.

2. Join MCC in prayer and support for those suffering in our world. MCC has prepositioned relief materials in Haiti for immediate use. Earlier this month an additional shipment of supplies was sent to Haiti and is expected to arrive in September. MCC continues to respond to needs around the world in Ethiopia, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Congo and other crisis areas. We greatly appreciate your monetary donations to keep current projects going and to help with extra expenses due to recent disasters; and we could use your help in replenishing our supplies of relief kits and hygiene kits. Questions can be directed to 316.283.2720 or centralstates@mcc.org.

Prayer for Afghanistan
God of safe passage,
open the way.

God of hospitality,
prepare rooms to receive.

God of protection,
envelop those in danger.

God of peace,
remove the seed and tools of violence.

God of tears,
hold us in your embrace.

Oh, Afghanistan! May peace flow down like cooling rain.

Written by Kirstin De Mello, Program and Communications Coordinator for MCC U.S. Washington Office.

3. MCC Treats & Beats, August 26 from 4 p.m.-6 p.m. at MCC in North Newton! Join us for this relaxed come-and-go event featuring ice cream treats from Salted Creamery and beats from the talented Kevin Gaeddert! Drop in, grab some ice cream and enjoy a little music as our thank you for your support of the work of MCC!

Click here for the Mennonite Central CommitteeWashington DC E Memo

Camp Mennoscah Announcements
1.  The next Work Day is August 28 with projects galore! We may work on some of the finishing touches to the campfire amphitheater or any number of other projects, depending on the turnout. We’ll meet at the maintenance shed at 8:30am. Please bring a sack lunch and water bottle. Contact us at 620-297-3290 to let us know you’re coming!
2.  September 26 is a Camp Mennoscah Combo! It’s the Hymn Sing-Dessert Auction and Annual Meeting all in one! There are still details to be determined, but plan on some hymn singing (masked & distanced), bidding on delectable desserts, and information about Camp Mennoscah’s year. We’ll keep the details coming your way!
There are volunteer opportunities for you! Camp Mennoscah has year-round work to support the maintenance and upkeep of the campus and facilities. We can accommodate every group size, skill set and length of project you would like to tackle. Check out these ways to Get Involved! Email office@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to volunteer.
3.  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.

Hoffnungsau Fun Night
Are you sad that summer is coming to an end? Come out and have a great night of fun and entertainment at the Community Fun Night! Saturday, September 4, starting at 5:30pm at Hoffnungsau Mennonite Church, 43 13^th Avenue, Inman. There will be Cornhole Tournament ($20 entry fee, cash prizes, registration 5:30-600); Kids’ activities (inflatables, face painting, water games); Car Show; Food Vendors (Epp Soul Food and Patrick Klassen); Drive-in Movie on the lawn at dark. Everyone’s welcome! Bring your family and friends as we celebrate the end of summer!! Find Hoffnungsau Mennonite Church on Facebook for more details.

Click here for the Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level

Click here for Mennonite Mission NetworkNews and Beyond

Click here for the New Hope Shelternewsletter

Work on the addition to the columbarium progresses. More pictures taken by Monica Lichti. The wall grows. The contractor is Dana Orpin. An interesting fact about Dana is that his father Charles Orpin and grandfather Clarence laid the original stones for the current BCMC building.