Category Archives: Announcements

Worship and announcements for January 28, 2024

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND WORSHIP SERVICE FOR January 28, 2024

To livestream the worship service:
On Sunday morning, around 9:20, go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen, which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box below that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. Anytime after the service concludes, you can watch a recording of the service at your convenience by clicking the same green LIVE STREAM button. Again, you will probably have to go to the gray box that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. That will transfer you to the BCMC YouTube Channel. You will have to click on the tab “Videos” to see all of the BCMC videos. Click the red button to see the bulletin/order of service.
OR – click on this link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/JYw7HApCzuI?feature=share

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
January 28, 2024
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany

Christ Candle Lighting

Centering Music—Prélude, Op. 18 (Cesar Franck)—Karen Schlabaugh

Welcome and Prayer—Dorothy Nickel Friesen

*Hymn—All Creatures, Worship God Most High—VT 81

Children’s Conversation—Jeanette Stucky

Anthem—Somebody’s Knocking at your Door (A. L. Page)—Chancel Bells, Verlene Garber, director

Scripture Reading—Mark 1:21-28; 1 Corinthians 8:1-13—Doug Penner

Sermon—Knowledge Puffs Up, Love Builds Up— Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—Beloved, God’s Chosen—VT 164

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Go, My Friends, in Grace—VT 810
People with January birthdays come forward for a blessing, please bring a hymnal

Birthday Blessing & Benediction

Postlude—Psalm 19 – N (Benedetto Marcello)—Karen Schlabaugh

* You are invited to stand
VT = Voices Together
Keyboard- Karen Schlabaugh
Audio visual—Ken Lamp

This Week at BCMC: January 28—February 4, 2024

Sunday, January 28, 2024
9:30 a.m.    Worship    YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/JYw7HApCzuI?feature=share

11:45 a.m. Fundraiser Soup Lunch served by the Senior High Youth Group in the Fellowship Hall—Everyone is invited!
12:45 a.m. Congregational meeting in the sanctuary  ** See Note below about the lunch and meeting

The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 am Faith Formation—Intergenerational class meets in Fellowship Hall;   High School – Room 24    Adult Classes: Agape Class meets in the nursery; Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21) Seekers (Rm 28)

Tuesday, January 30, 2024
10 a.m.     Staff meeting
Wednesday, January 31, 2024
7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the sanctuary
Thursday, February 1, 2024
6:30 p.m.   Chancel Bells Rehearsal in Room B-7
7 p.m.         Church Board meeting in Room 14
Sunday, February 4, 2024
9:30 a.m.     Worship with sermon by Roger Neufeld Smith; music by Chancel Choir; report from Junior High Youth on Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp Snow Camp
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation

SOUP LUNCH AND CONGREGATIONAL MEETING SUNDAY – JANUARY 28, 2024

The lunch Sunday at 11:45 a.m. will be prepared by the Youth Group. The soup lunch is one of the major fundraisers for the Senior High Youth Group. Everyone is invited – there will be a fun activity also! In order to facilitate the clean-up, please bring your own soup bowl, plate, cup, utensils.
Make checks to BCMC with “Sr. High Youth” in memo line.

The congregational meeting is Sunday at 12:45 in the sanctuary. It can be viewed on YouTube at the time of the meeting only; it will not be recorded for later viewing. Although there will not be a way to participate in discussion, those watching online may vote on an item during the meeting by texting “yes” or “no” to the following number: 316 308-5501 . If there are several people in the household, they will be able to send a vote for each person represented by the text. YouTube Link for the congregational meeting is:
https://youtube.com/live/P6-l3BYtS7c?feature=share

Agenda items will include a finance report from 2023 as well as approval of the budget for 2024, action on the revised Welcoming Statement, action on the proposal to change the church’s moderator model, report and proposal concerning the solar panel project, and an update on the Search Committee process.

Following are the proposals to be presented at the meeting.

Proposals for Action at the BCMC Congregational Meeting
January 28, 2024

Welcoming Statement:
The BCMC board has approved a recommendation from the Inclusion Task Group to revise our congregation’s welcoming statement and proposes the following version be adopted:
Bethel College Mennonite Church is an open and affirming congregation centered in the life and teachings of Jesus. Embracing the divine within each person, we warmly welcome any and all into fellowship without regard to race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, economic status, marital status, and age.

Change in Moderator Model:
The Board proposes a bylaws change to shift church officer positions from Moderator Elect and Moderator, each serving two-year terms with a total commitment of four years, to Moderator Elect, Moderator, and Past Moderator. In the new model, each position would be held for one year with the Moderator Elect moving on to Moderator and Past Moderator in the following years, thus serving a three-year commitment. The new model shortens the term of commitment by one year and establishes a three-person leadership team. The proposed bylaws wording change follows:
Bylaws Change:
Bylaw No. 2: Organization
Section A: Church Officers

Moderator: The Moderator of the congregation shall also serve as Chair and voting member of the Church Board. The Chair shall preside at all meetings of the Church Board and shall, subject to the control of the Church Board, have general supervision and direction of the business of the Church Board. The Chair shall be a member ex officio of all the commissions and committees and shall exercise and perform such other powers and duties as may be assigned to the chair by the Church Board or by these bylaws. The term of office shall be ~~two~~ one years.
Moderator Elect: The Moderator Elect of the congregation shall serve as a voting member of the Church Board and shall preside at meetings of the Church Board and the congregation when the Moderator is unavailable. Other leadership tasks will be determined by the Moderator, Moderator Elect, and Past Moderator as needed and appropriate. The term of office shall be ~~two~~ one year followed by ~~two~~ one year as Moderator.
Past Moderator: The Past Moderator of the congregation shall serve as a voting member of the Church Board and may preside at meetings of the Church Board or congregation in the event that neither the Moderator nor Moderator Elect is available. Other leadership tasks will be determined by the Moderator, Moderator Elect, and Past Moderator as needed and appropriate. The term of office will be one year, immediately following the one year term as Moderator.

Solar Panel Project:
The BCMC Church Board proposes that the Bethel College Mennonite Church move forward with the solar panel project bysigning a contract with King Solar to install solar panels on the roof of the church, with completion planned for the end of June 2024, accepting donations for the project in fulfillment of pledges from congregants and others,using up to $96,000 of the church’s bequest funds for the project.
All pledges will be used for the solar panel project. Pledges paid after installation is completed
will be used to repay any internal borrowing from bequest funds. The BCMC board encourages, through Creation Care or other committees, the establishment of initiatives that expand the
work of BCMC in the areas of creation care and climate justice locally and in the broader
community.

If you would like to print these proposals click on the button for a printable version. There are also copies available in the gathering place on the ledge between the mailboxes.

Proposals for Action at the Congregational Meeting

For the BCMC Financial Report booklet (a printable version) press the button below. Copies are available in the gathering place on the ledge between the mailboxes.

BCMC Financial Reports

Junior High Youth Super Bowl Snacks
After the worship service Feb. 11, the Junior High Youth will be selling an assortment of Super Bowl snacks. Snacks will be sold by donation. Donations go toward the Junior High Fund which is used to support activities like Snow Camp. Come prepared to support the Junior High Youth!

Roger’s Whereabouts : Roger will be driving back to Topeka this Sun. after the congregational meeting. He will return to Newton this coming Wed. morning Jan. 31. On the following Sat., Roger will give the meditation for a family friend at First Mennonite, Newton. He will preach at BCMC on Sun., Feb. 4. Whether he’s in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and cell phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone (785-220-1968).

Address Updates for your BCMC Directories
· Marion Deckert’s new address: 3054 Ivy Court, Room 43-S, North Newton, KS, 67117
· Donna Friesen’s new address: 3056 Ivy Court, Room 12, North Newton, KS, 67117
· Jim Juhnke’s email in the directory should be: juhnke38@gmail.com
· Myrna Krehbiel’s new email: myrnakrehbiel@gmail.com
· Elizabeth Raid’s new email: RaidBasha123@gmail.com
· Ilene Schmidt’s new address: 3054 Ivy Court, Room 19-S, North Newton, KS, 67117

BCMC Offering for January 21, 2024: General $4,260; Library Reserve Fund $5; Kitchen Fund $12; Solar Fund $30; Nancy Hilty Mem. $203.

February 25 has been designated as “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” Sunday! “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” is a way for BCMC folks to get acquainted with other BCMC folks that they might not know very well. The Hospitality Commission will match people who sign up as hosts with people who sign up as guests. On Sunday there are sign up sheets at the back of the church, for being either a host or a guest for a dinner. If you do not have an opportunity to sign up on Sunday, you can contact the church office.

The memorial service for Nancy Hilty has been re-scheduled to Saturday March 9, 11 a.m. followed by a light lunch in fellowship hall.

The memorial service for Don Kaufman will be Saturday, April 13, 11 a.m. at BCMC followed by a light lunch in fellowship hall.

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

February 10, Saturday Library Book Sale & Open House: Stop by the Western District Conference Resource Library on Saturday, February 10 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Browse the book sale, check out what’s new for individuals, families, children and more for home and congregational use. Enjoy a hot drink and stories with Bethel College Students.

Registration is now open for the annual Bluestem PACE Race 5K run/walk on Saturday, April 6, in McPherson. Registration by March 20 is $30 and includes a race shirt. Complete registration online at bluestempace.org/events. Bluestem PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly), is a nonprofit that is part of Bluestem Communities and is dedicated to helping seniors with complex medical needs live well at home by providing comprehensive care from one source.

On Tuesday, January 30 at 7 p.m., the Dyck Arboretum of the Plains will kick off a busy season of educational events, first featuring as part of our Winter Lecture Series, “Prairie Fire: A Great Plains History”, presented by Julie Courtwright. The lecture will take place via Zoom and participants can register for $5 at dyckarboretum.square.site/upcoming-events.
Join historian, author and teacher Julie Courtwright as she discusses the role of fire – human-caused and natural – in shaping the Great Plains and the lives of its residents. Using newspaper accounts, diary entries and pop culture artifacts, Courtwright explores how fire has benefitted and sometimes terrorized humans. She’ll give special attention to prairie fires in Central Kansas. Courtwright grew up in the Flint Hills of Kansas. She’s an associate professor of history at Iowa State University.

Bethel College Announcements
· Bethel College Academy of Performing Arts is looking for flutists to join the BCAPA Flute Choir! Open to flutists age 12 or older at any level; Tuesdays from 7:30-8:30 p.m. with the first session starting Jan. 30, through Feb. 27 (2nd session April 30-May 21); $50 fee. Email: bcapa@bethelks.edu to register or for more information.
· Sat., Feb. 3 – Kauffman Museum bird walk, 8 a.m. start time in the museum parking lot at the corner of Main and 27th streets (2801 N. Main St., North Newton 67117). Experienced birders lead a walk of 1-1.5 hours in Chisholm Park and on Sand Creek Trail.
· Sat., Feb. 3 – Bethel College Faculty Recital: Dr. Christina Liu, piano, 2 p.m. [note time change], Administration Building chapel
· Sun., Feb. 11 – KIPCOR Film Series presents Eroding History, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Audience talkback follows the screening; a freewill offering will be taken to support KIPCOR and the film series.
· Now in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center —“Forest Listening,” a sound art installation by Liz K. Miller, through Feb. 9. Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
· SAVE THE DATES: Fri., March 1, 7 p.m., KIPCOR Peace Lecture with Christina Swarns, executive director of the Innocence Project; also Sat., March 2, Justice Symposium at Bethel College

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

This Saturday, January 27, is 2nd Work Day for the start of the Retreat Center HVAC project! Thank you to everyone who helped this past Saturday to make the building ready for the next step–“demolition.” There are still a few parts of the old HVAC system that need to be removed. Work will start at 9am and end at 5pm. Bring your own lunch and water bottle, please, and meet at the Retreat Center. Park nose-first to the wooden fence to the south of the building. Camp Mennoscah will provide tools needed. Space heaters will be used, but temperatures inside may be around 50 degrees. Please let us know you are coming so we can be prepared. Contact us at 620-297-3290, 316-293-7313 (text) or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org. We are grateful for your generosity as a volunteer. Thank you for helping make the Retreat Center project a reality!

Other events and happenings:

Two volunteers are needed daily to help with Retreat Center HVAC work from Monday through Friday for the next 12 weeks. Construction skills are not a requirement. Contact Camp Mennoscah at 620-297-3290, text 316-293-7313 or email olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org. Board members may also contact you. Half days are fine. Sign up today!
The phone system for Camp Mennoscah is changing. The 3014 number will no longer be a camp phone number. The main camp number of 620-297-3290 is the best number to use. The new system will not go in until after the Retreat Center HVAC project is complete.While offices are in the temporary spaces, there will be more limited access to staff by phone. Please leave a message at 620-297-3290 and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Staff hours will be changing and offices have moved from the Retreat Center. These changes are happening with the start of the Retreat Center HVAC Project. Olivia may be pulled to help with the HVAC project, meaning that her office work hours may move to the evening. Some staff will also be working off-site, which changes the frequency of certain office tasks. Thank you for your understanding!
Interviews for the 2024 Summer Staff are underway! Summer staff must be 18 years old or older. The staff leadership positions receiving stipends are naturalist, crafts leader, lifeguard, grounds/maintenance, music leader, and office/media. Get your application in soon, but applications will be accepted until all positions are filled. The 2024 summer camp season begins with orientation for summer-long positions on June 2 and ends August 4. The application for 2024 Summer Staff at Camp Mennoscah can be found here.
Summer camp registration will open soon and Camp Mennoscah will be looking for weekly nurses and cooks. Be ready to sign up for a week or more of fun!

Mennonite Central Committee Announcements
MCC Central States annual meeting, Saturday, March 2 at 10 a.m. You are invited to join the meeting in-person or virtually to hear MCC U.S. Executive Director Ann Graber Hershberger share an MCC update. Please email centralstates@mcc.org if you would like the Zoom link to join virtually. Otherwise, join us at MCC Central States, 121 E. 30^th St in North Newton, Kansas.
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Mark your calendar now for the 16^th annual MCC Comforter Blitz, March 4-6 just outside of Yoder, Kansas. If you can tie a knot, you can make a difference! Curious to find out more? Please check mcc.org/comforter-blitz or the Kansas MCC Comforter Blitz page on Facebook. The blitz takes place on Monday, March 4 from 9am-5pm, Tuesday, March 5 from 9am-9pm and Wednesday, March 6 from 9am-4pm at the 3605 East Longview Rd. Haven, KS. Questions? Please contact brociamueller@mcc.org.

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

Buhler Mennonite Church’s ANNUAL CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP SUPPER is Wed., Feb. 14. It will be a carry-out featuring noodle soup, pie and bread. Orders will be accepted through Feb. 2. Call or text 620-664-7699 to let us know how many orders you want. Pick up will be at the north entrance of the church (220 W Ave B, Buhler) from 4 to 6 p.m. Feb. 14. Enter from the south side parking lot on B Street. This is a free will offering with all proceeds going to OUTREACH MEALS. Checks may be made out to Buhler Mennonite Church – cash donations will also be accepted that evening. Note the change in traffic direction!

First Mennonite Church of Halstead invites you to their annual Verenike Supper on Sat., Feb.17 from 4:30 p.m.-7 p.m. at the church, 427 W 4th. There will be a dine-in option and a carryout option (west side of the church on Santa Fe). The menu will be verenike, ham gravy, sausage, green beans, zwieback, pie and assorted relishes. Proceeds will go to Halstead USD 440 school lunches and Halstead community utility bill assistance.

For Mennonite World Conference press here
For Mennonite World Conference “Info” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News from around the world” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and beyond” press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

Menno Snapshots

Eric Massanari, executive conference minister for the Pacific Northwest Mennonite Conference, reflects on his time at the 2023 conference ministers retreat in Banff, Alberta, Canada, learning about what nurtures healthy ministry leaders. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/healthy-ministry-community

Meghan Larissa Good, faculty of record for teaching leadership at Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary, shares about how many churches began to view God in a transformational way during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read her Menno Snapshots blog here: mennoniteusa.org/god-looks-like-jesus

After researching the experiences of women in ministry, Amy Zimbelman, conference minister of Mountain States Mennonite Conference, shares how women have used sass as a means to deal with inequality in ministry. Read her Menno Snapshots blog here: mennoniteusa.org/sass-claim-equality

Worship and Announcements for January 21, 2024

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR JANUARY 21, 2024

To livestream the worship service:
On Sunday morning, around 9:45, go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen, which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box below that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. Anytime after the service concludes, you can watch a recording of the service at your convenience by clicking the same green LIVE STREAM button. Again, you will probably have to go to the gray box that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. That will transfer you to the BCMC YouTube Channel. You will have to click on the tab “Videos” to see all of the BCMC videos. Click the red button to see the bulletin/order of service.
OR – click on this link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/Ml17o9pO6RU?feature=share

Extreme Fall Danger for Sunday Morning Worship

BCMC will be having in-person worship on this Sunday, January 21. However we recommend that you exercise extreme caution if you plan to attend in-person. You will likely need to walk over snow and ice in order to enter the BCMC facility. The parking lot to the east of the church will be icy and parking spots along the road and curb will still have snow and ice around them. The risk of falling is significant. For anyone who has even a slight risk of falling, please stay home and watch the service live-streamed.

From the staff of Bethel College Mennonite Church

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
January 21, 2024
Third Sunday after Epiphany

Christ Candle Lighting

Centering Music—Adoration (Florence B. Price) –Will Wiebe-Friesen

Welcome and Prayer—Jon Zerger

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

Children’s Conversation—Kevin Neufeld

Anthem—Fairest Lord Jesus (Derek Hakes)–Chancel Choir; Riley King, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist

Scripture Reading—Psalm 62:5-12; Mark 1:14-20—Carol & Jerry Buller

Sermon—Image of God, Activity of God—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—O God, Great Womb—VT 176

Child Blessing for Elizabeth Robb—VT 970

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Will You Come and Follow Me—VT 540

Benediction

Postlude—Fugue from Sonata 6 (Mendelssohn)–Will Wiebe-Friesen

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together

Keyboard- Will Wiebe-Friesen
Audio visual—Ken Lamp

Note on the composer of Adoration: Florence Beatrice Price (1887-1953) was the first African American woman to be recognized as a symphonic composer. A prolific composer who studied primarily as an organist and pianist, the bulk of her works were not published until their serendipitous discovery in the attic of her now-abandoned former home near Chicago in 2009. Her story is one worth looking up!

This Week at BCMC: January 21—28, 2024

Sunday, January 21, 2024
9:30 a.m.    Worship    YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/Ml17o9pO6RU?feature=share

The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 am Faith Formation—Intergenerational class meets in Fellowship Hall;   High School – Room 24    Adult Classes: Agape Class meets in the nursery; Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21) Seekers (Rm 28)

Monday, January 22, 2024
10 a.m. Library Committee meeting in Room 14
Wednesday, January 24, 2024
7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the sanctuary
Thursday, January 25, 2024
6:30 p.m.   Chancel Bells Rehearsal in Room B-7
7 p.m.         Deacon Commission meeting in Room 14
Sunday, January 28, 2024
9:30 a.m     Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz; music by Chancel Bells
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation
11:45 a.m. Soup Luncheon in fellowship hall—Fundraiser served by Senior High Youth Group
12:45 a.m. Congregational meeting in the sanctuary

Preparing for Worship
As we gather for worship each Sunday in the sanctuary, the Worship Commission invites and encourages us to become quiet as we light the Christ Candle. Prelude music has now been changed to Centering Music. The Worship Commission invites your feedback as we experiment with a new order of worship.

February 25 has been designated as “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” Sunday! “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” is a way for BCMC folks to get acquainted with other BCMC folks that they might not know very well. The Hospitality Commission will match people who sign up as hosts with people who sign up as guests. Today there are sign up sheets at the back of the church, for being either a host or a guest for a dinner.

The memorial service for Nancy Hilty has been re-scheduled to Saturday March 9, 11 a.m. followed by a lunch in fellowship hall.

Roger’s Whereabouts : Roger will be back in Newton on Wednesday, January 24. Whether he’s in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone call (785-220-1968).

BCMC Offering for January 14, 2024: General $5,915.83; Bell Choir $100; Plant Fund $8.33; Metta Lieb Mem. $100; Nancy Hilty Mem. $50.

Results of the Solar Panel Project Phase 1 Survey:
Good news for the future of solar at BCMC! We received 79 responses to the Phase I Solar questionnaire submitted on behalf of 114 people. Of the 79 responses, 78 (98.7%) were in favor of the project and 1 (1.3%) was not in favor of the project. A total of $180,990 was pledged over 3 years, of which $127,990 was pledged by the 6/30/24 installation date. Recall, the total project cost was quoted at $192,000. Up to $96,000 had been designated as available from the bequest fund. Additional grants or subsidies may be awarded. More detailed information and a chance for final approval of the contract will be provided at the annual meeting. We are grateful to the Creation Care solar subcommittee of Dwight Krehbiel, Lorna Harder, and Hugo Boschmann as well as Jon Zerger and Margaret Toews from the Board and the Finance Committee, chaired by LaVern Stucky, for all their careful homework, collaborative deliberations, and clear communications. We of course are also thankful for the many people from our congregation who are supporting the project. — Ada Schmidt-Tieszen, Church Board Chair/Moderator

For the Financial Reports booklet which has the finance report from 2023 as well as the budget for 2024 press here
There are also copies in the gathering place – on the ledge by the mailboxes.

Welcome Statement:
The BCMC board has approved a recommendation from the Inclusion Task Group to revise our congregation’s welcome statement which is in the church’s constitution. The revised version follows:
“Bethel College Mennonite Church is an open and affirming congregation centered in the life and teachings of Jesus. Embracing the divine within each person, we warmly welcome any and all into fellowship without regard to race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, economic status, marital status and age.”

Change in Moderator Model:
The Board has proposed a bylaws change to shift church officer positions from Moderator Elect and Moderator, each serving two-year terms with a total commitment of four years, to Moderator Elect, Moderator, and Past Moderator. In the new model, each position would be held for one year with the Moderator Elect moving on to Moderator and Past Moderator in the following years, thus serving a three-year commitment. In summary, the new model shortens the term of commitment by one year and establishes a three-person leadership team.

Bethel College Announcements
(Sun., Jan. 21) – Bethel College Music Department Honors Recital, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel, featuring vocal and instrumental students who performed exceptionally during the fall 2023 semester. Livestreaming available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3OzxafyFgg&ab_channel=BethelCollegeMusicDepartment
· Fri., Jan. 26 – First event in the Bethel College Faculty Lecture Series, “Walking the Talk: Listening in Our Disciplines,” at Kidron Bethel Village, 11 a.m., Kidron Hall. Dr. Rachel Epp Buller, Bethel professor of visual arts and design and series organizer, will introduce the series and speak on “Walking and Listening in/as Artistic Practice.”
· Sat., Jan. 27 – Kauffman Museum annual Kansas Day event, “Kansas Critters,” noon-4 p.m., museum parking lot and grounds. Featuring food trucks, exhibits and activities indoors and out, and much more. For more information, see the Kauffman Museum Facebook page or kauffmanmuseum.org
· Sat., Feb. 3 – Bethel College Faculty Recital: Dr. Christina Liu, piano, 2 p.m. [note time change], Administration Building chapel
· Now in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College – “Forest Listening,” a sound art installation by Liz K. Miller, through Feb. 9. Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.

Hesston College Announcements
Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery
This year the Melva Kauffman Lecture Series hosts Mark Charles who will present on the topic of Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery. Charles is the son of an American woman of Dutch heritage and a Navajo man. He teaches with insight into the complexities of American history regarding race, culture and faith in order to help forge a path of healing and conciliation for the nation. The public is invited to hear his presentation at Hesston Mennonite Church Sunday, January 21, 2024, at 7 p.m

January 27 – Community Day
Join Hesston College for Community Day on Saturday, January 27, at Yost Center. The event features free admission to the Lark men’s and women’s basketball games vs. Neosho County as well as free popcorn, photos with Clark the Lark, performances by the HC dance team and free haircuts from alum Christy (Berkey) ’03 Pickerill, CC’s Family Hair. The women’s game starts at noon and the men’s game at 3 p.m. The Hesston High School pep band and cheerleaders will help cheer the Larks.

January 30 – History of Prairie Fires
Join the Winter Lecture Series at Dyck Arboretum of the Plains and learn about the history of prairie fires. You will learn about how fire helped shape the Great Plains and the lives of its residents. The lecture begins at 7 p.m. and will be held virtually. Visit dyckarboretum.org/events to register. There is a $5 cost.

January 27 is a work day on the Camp Mennoscah Retreat Center HVAC Project, the start of “demolition.” Work will start at 9 a.m. and end at 5 p.m. Bring your own lunch and water bottle, please, and meet at the Retreat Center. Camp Mennoscah will provide tools needed. Space heaters will be used, but temperatures inside may be around 50 degrees. Please let us know you are coming so we can be prepared.
Contact olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290, 316-293-7313 (text).

For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
For Mennonite Disaster Service “On the Level” press here
For MC USA “Equipping” press here
For a Mennonite Men petition press here

Everence® will hold an informative Social Security and retirement income workshop Thur., Jan. 25, 6:30 p.m. Topics will be Social Security strategies, including when to begin taking benefits, risks that can impact your retirement savings plus strategies to help your income last throughout retirement. There will also be plenty of time for questions.
In-person workshop will be at the Everence office: 3179 N. Main St. Suite 1B, North Newton. Information will be presented by staff from the Everence offices in Central Kansas. To register contact Everence at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com.

Come hear a short concert of choral music presented by the Occasional Singers, a chamber ensemble of talented musicians who don’t have a lot of time on their hands! Led by Andrew Voth, they will be singing choral standards as well as more contemporary pieces. The concert will occur at 2 p.m. on Sunday, January 21 at First Mennonite Church in Newton and will be free to attend.

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

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

Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp Announcements

SPRING MENNONITE QUILTERS RETREAT – Camp’s first Quilters Retreat for 2024 is coming April 25-28. These retreats are a great opportunity to get away and get those projects done that have been waiting. While there will be some short, fun breaks, the main focus of this weekend will be giving participants plenty of time to sew. Bring lots of projects, or that one big project you’ve been waiting to start. Sharing ideas, tips and techniques are part of the weekend along with bringing any show and tell items to share with the group. To register, please visit the camp website at www.rmmc.org.

Winter Retreat volunteers– Camp is buzzing with Human Curling, broom ball on the pond and the swooshing of tubes coming down the tube run. We are looking forward to several retreats in the upcoming months and could use volunteers to assist staff to prepare and serve camp guests. Please visit the volunteer opportunities site on our website rmmc.org for dates and needs.

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Subscribe to PeaceMail to receive Mennonite Church USA’s blogs, together with news and resources in one weekly email. Subscribe to PeaceMail here: mennoniteusa.org/PeaceMailSubscribe

Menno Snapshots

Joanna Gerber Pinkerton, a member of Hope Mennonite Church, experienced a holy threshold in Glendalough, Ireland, through the story of St. Kevin, who chose gentleness over violence. Read her Menno Snapshots blog here: mennoniteusa.org/holy-thresholds

Sandra Montes-Martinez, associate conference minister of Western District Conference, shares how she has experienced culturally diverse congregations flourish with the practice of gratitude and cultural appreciation. Read her Menno Snapshots blog here: mennoniteusa.org/cultivating-gratitude

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Today is Anabaptist World Fellowship Sunday. Mennonite Mission Network invites you to join in Mennonite World Conference’s prayers for the global church: to work together in harmony, to reduce suffering, and to become God’s people, who sow peace, love and truth.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for generous financial contributions to WDC, supporting our mission of empowering Anabaptist/Mennonite congregations to witness and invite others to faith in Jesus Christ, dwell in just and loving relationships, and connect to God’s mission in the world.

Worship Service and Announcements for January 14, 2024

DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER AND VERY COLD TEMPERATURES THERE WILL BE NO IN-PERSON WORSHIP SERVICE TODAY
JOIN US ON-LINE!

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR JANUARY 14, 2024

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
Martin Luther King, Jr. Sunday
January 14, 2024

Prelude—Give Me Jesus– (Traditional Spiritual; Setting by Bethany Smith)–Karen Unruh

Christ Candle Lighting

Welcome and Prayer—Raylene Hinz-Penner

Hymn—Guide My Feet—VT 816

Children’s Conversation—Glen Ediger

Special Music—In the Rifted Rock I’m Resting (arr. Moyer)–Garber Quartet

Scripture Reading—Matthew 5:38-45;James 2:1-4,8-9,12-17—Justin Zerger

Sermon—Lessons from Ordinary Heroes—Roger Neufeld Smith

Hymn—Precious Lord—VT 610

Prayers of God’s People

Hymn—Lift Every Voice–VT 611

Benediction

Postlude–Soon and Very Soon–(arr. Schrader)–Karen Unruh

Audio-visual—Francis Toews

Thank you to members of the Garber Quartet who are participating in worship Sunday morning.

This Week at BCMC: January 14—21, 2024

Sunday, January 14, 2024—Martin Luther King, Jr. Sunday
9:30 a.m.    Worship   Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/IGzMYP8srXw?feature=share

Due to inclement weather with very cold temperatures, there will be no in-person worship service today; the service will be streamed on-line.

Monday, January 15, 2024—Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Church building will be locked; church office will be closed

Tuesday, January 16, 2024
5:30 p.m. Faith Formation Commission meeting in fellowship hall
Wednesday, January 17, 2024
7-9 p.m.    Task Group on Indigenous Justice meeting in Room 14
7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the sanctuary
Thursday, January 18, 2024
6:30 p.m.   Chancel Bells Rehearsal in Room B-7
Sunday, January 21, 2024
9:30 a.m.   Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz; music by the Chancel Choir; dedication of Elizabeth Mae Robb
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation

BCMC Women’s Fellowship has been canceled for the month of January. Therefore, there will be no meeting on January 16.

Interested in becoming a member of Bethel College Mennonite Church?
If you are interested in becoming a member, or transferring membership, or learning more about membership at BCMC, please contact Elizabeth Schmidt, Pastor of Congregational Care. She will be happy to visit with you

The church building and office will be closed for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Monday, January 15. We will reopen on January 16.

Roger’s Whereabouts : Roger will be driving back to Topeka this Sunday afternoon. He will be back in Newton on Wednesday, January 24. Whether he’s in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone call (785-220-1968).

BCMC Offering for January 7, 2024: General $12,556; Living Stones $50; Kitchen Fund $17; Patty Shelly Memorial $500; Solar Fund $50; Gladys Niles Memorial $25.

Results of the Solar Panel Project Phase 1 Survey:
Good news for the future of solar at BCMC! We received 79 responses to the Phase I Solar questionnaire submitted on behalf of 114 people. Of the 79 responses, 78 (98.7%) were in favor of the project and 1 (1.3%) was not in favor of the project. A total of $180,990 was pledged over 3 years, of which $127,990 was pledged by the 6/30/24 installation date. Recall, the total project cost was quoted at $192,000. Up to $96,000 had been designated as available from the bequest fund. Additional grants or subsidies may be awarded. More detailed information and a chance for final approval of the contract will be provided at the annual meeting. We are grateful to the Creation Care solar subcommittee of Dwight Krehbiel, Lorna Harder, and Hugo Boschmann as well as Jon Zerger and Margaret Toews from the Board and the Finance Committee, chaired by LaVern Stucky, for all their careful homework, collaborative deliberations, and clear communications. We of course are also thankful for the many people from our congregation who are supporting the project. — Ada Schmidt-Tieszen, Church Board Chair/Moderator

Congregational Meeting Set for January 28:
The next congregational meeting will take place on Sunday, January 28, at 12:45 following a soup lunch prepared by the Youth Group. The meeting will be held in the sanctuary and made available live on YouTube only while the meeting is in progress; it will not be recorded. Votes from remote viewers can be texted to a number available in Sunday’s bulletin and announced at the beginning of the meeting. Agenda items will include a finance report from 2023 as well as approval of the budget for 2024, action on the revised Welcoming Statement, action on the proposal to change the church’s moderator model, report and proposal concerning the solar panel project, and an update on the Search Committee process.

Welcome Statement:
The BCMC board has approved a recommendation from the Inclusion Task Group to revise our congregation’s welcome statement which is in the church’s constitution. The revised version follows:
“Bethel College Mennonite Church is an open and affirming congregation centered in the life and teachings of Jesus. Embracing the divine within each person, we warmly welcome any and all into fellowship without regard to race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, economic status, marital status and age.”

Change in Moderator Model:
The Board has proposed a bylaws change to shift church officer positions from Moderator Elect and Moderator, each serving two-year terms with a total commitment of four years, to Moderator Elect, Moderator, and Past Moderator. In the new model, each position would be held for one year with the Moderator Elect moving on to Moderator and Past Moderator in the following years, thus serving a three-year commitment. In summary, the new model shortens the term of commitment by one year and establishes a three-person leadership team.

Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza: Call for Prayer and Action for Peace and Justice in Israel and Palestine. Witness Commission
On Dec. 19 Mennonite Action brought together nearly 2000 Mennonites and interfaith allies across North America to call for an immediate cease fire. Some of our members joined other Kansas Mennonites at the offices of Senators Moran and Marshall in Wichita and Topeka. Members can read Bob Atchison’s article in the Jan. 2 issue of the Newton Kansan. Atchison chairs the Mennonite Palestine Israel Network and the Western District Task Force. On Jan. 16, Mennonite Action, see online, is organizing action in Washington D.C. The Witness Commission urges: 1. Support for the MCC humanitarian relief effort in Gaza; 2. Prayer for President Biden and other political leaders to support an immediate and permanent cease fire in Gaza; 3. Phone calls to the Wichita offices of Senators Moran and Marshall.

Everence® will hold an informative Social Security and retirement income workshop Thur., Jan. 25, 6:30 p.m. Topics will be Social Security strategies, including when to begin taking benefits, risks that can impact your retirement savings plus strategies to help your income last throughout retirement. There will also be plenty of time for questions.
In-person workshop will be at the Everence office: 3179 N. Main St. Suite 1B, North Newton. Information will be presented by staff from the Everence offices in Central Kansas. To register contact Everence at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com.

Come hear a short concert of choral music presented by the Occasional Singers, a chamber ensemble of talented musicians who don’t have a lot of time on their hands! Led by Andrew Voth, they will be singing choral standards as well as more contemporary pieces. The concert will occur at 2 p.m. on Sunday, January 21 at First Mennonite Church in Newton and will be free to attend.

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

February 10, Saturday Library Book Sale & Open House: Stop by the Western District Conference Resource Library on Saturday, February 10 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Browse the book sale, check out what’s new for individuals, families, children and more for home and congregational use. Enjoy a hot drink and stories with Bethel College Students.

Bethel College Announcements
· Mon., Jan. 15 – Bethel College Martin Luther King Jr. Day program, 6 p.m., Memorial Hall. The keynote speaker is historian, activist and servant leader Pamela D.C. Junior; also featuring the Bethel College Concert Choir.
·  Fri. Jan. 19 – “Forest Listening,” works by Liz K. Miller, opens in the Regier Art Gallery in Lukyen Fine Arts Center at Bethel College (no reception). Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
·  Sun., Jan. 21 – Bethel College Music Department Honors Recital, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel, featuring freshman, sophomore and junior vocal and instrumental students who performed exceptionally during the fall 2023 semester.
·  Fri., Jan. 26 – First event in the Bethel College Faculty Lecture Series, “Walking the Talk: Listening in Our Disciplines,” at Kidron Bethel Village, 11 a.m., Kidron Hall. Dr. Rachel Epp Buller, Bethel professor of visual arts and design and series organizer, will introduce the series and speak on “Walking and Listening in/as Artistic Practice.”
·  Sat., Jan. 27 – Kauffman Museum annual Kansas Day event, “Kansas Critters,” noon-4 p.m., museum parking lot and grounds. Featuring food trucks, exhibits and activities indoors and out, and much more. For more information, see the Kauffman Museum Facebook page or kauffmanmuseum.org

Hesston College Announcement—Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery
This year the Melva Kauffman Lecture Series hosts Mark Charles who will present on the topic of Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery. Charles is the son of an American woman of Dutch heritage and a Navajo man. He teaches with insight into the complexities of American history regarding race, culture and faith in order to help forge a path of healing and conciliation for the nation. The public is invited to hear his presentation at Hesston Mennonite Church Sunday, January 21, 2024, at 7 p.m.

Camp Mennoscah Announcements
Work Days on the Camp Mennoscah Retreat Center HVAC Project are Jan. 20 and 27. The first day will focus on removing furniture and other items from the building and the second will be the start of “demolition.” Work will start at 9 a.m. and end at 5 p.m. Bring your own lunch and water bottle, please, and meet at the Retreat Center. Camp Mennoscah will provide tools needed. Space heaters will be used, but temperatures inside may be around 50 degrees. Please let us know you are coming so we can be prepared.
Contact olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290, 316-293-7313 (text).

Other events and happenings:

Staff hours will be changing and offices will be moving from the Retreat Center around the 15th of January. These changes are happening with the start of the Retreat Center HVAC Project. There may be delays as the offices and staff are resettled in their new (temporary) locations.
Interviews for the 2024 Summer Staff are underway! Summer staff must be 18 years old or older. The staff leadership positions receiving stipends are naturalist, crafts leader, lifeguard, grounds/maintenance, music leader, and office/media. Get your application in soon, but applications will be accepted until all positions are filled. The 2024 summer camp season begins with orientation for summer-long positions on June 2 and ends August 4. The application for 2024 Summer Staff at Camp Mennoscah can be found here.

For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network Urgent Prayer Request press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “We Are Called To Work Together” press here

For Mennonite Church USA January 22 Webinar “Engaging MC USA’s Safe Church” press here

For Mennonite World Conference press here

For Mennonite Disaster Service Feb. 23-24 Annual Celebration press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Join Mennonite Church USA’s Nancy Kauffmann, Michael Danner and Glen Guyton for a webinar on Monday, Jan. 22 at 7 p.m. EST/4 p.m. PST, in which they will discuss the vision and direction of the new Safe Church ministry, share resources for congregations and conferences, and answer questions about the future vision for Safe Church advocacy in our denomination. View the PDF here: mennoniteusa.org/slide/safe-webinar-jan
Register here: mennoniteusa.org/registration-safechurch-jan22

Menno Snapshots

As the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to rage on, Chris Hoover Seidel, who is part of the Mennonite Spiritual Directors Network, reflects on how she has learned to handle her own grief, while also holding space for those grieving around her. Read her Menno Snapshots blog here: mennoniteusa.org/grief-work

Equipping, Mennonite Church USA’s quarterly email newsletter for pastors and leaders features resources submitted by MC USA conferences, congregations, agencies, entities/ministry partners, constituency groups and affiliated schools and colleges. Subscribe to Equipping here: mennoniteusa.org/mc-usa-subscribe

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Tomorrow, we remember Martin Luther King Jr., who followed Jesus’ way of nonviolent civil disobedience by bringing hope to people who have been denied justice. Pray for Mennonite Mission Network’s ministries of dismantling racism in the United States and around the world.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for the WDC Executive Board and Commissions as they meet this month to provide guidance, leadership and vision for our conference.

Worship and Announcements for January 7, 2024

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR
January 7, 2024

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
January 7, 2024
Epiphany

Christ Candle Lighting

Centering Music—We Three Kings (D. Bish)–Will Wiebe-Friesen

Land Acknowledgement

Welcome and Prayer—Dale Schrag

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

Children’s Conversation—Trent Voth

Anthem—See Whose Glory Fills the Skies (George Elderkin)–Chancel Choir; Riley King, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist

Scripture Reading—Malachi 4:1-5; Mark 1:1-11—Addie Zerger

Sermon— Epiphanies with David, Mark, and Jesus—Trent Voth

*Hymn—Spirit of the Living God—VT 740

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—O Beautiful Star of Bethlehem—VT 275

Benediction

Postlude—Nun ist sie erschienen (S. Vincent)–Will Wiebe-Friesen

* You are invited to stand

VT—Voices Together
Keyboard- Will Wiebe-Friesen
Audio visual—John Thiesen

Welcome Guest Speaker Trent Voth
We extend a warm welcome to Trent Voth as he preaches and facilitates the children’s conversation on January 7. Trent just completed his first semester as professor of Bible and Religion at Bethel College. He grew up in the Halstead area but he and his wife, Stephanie, and two sons, Devereaux (De-Ver-Row) and Darien moved back to the area from Toronto, Ontario, where Trent completed his PhD at the University of Toronto. Trent has a particular interest in The Gospel of Mark, anabaptist theologies, vocational discernment, and indigenous justice.

Preparing for Worship
As we gather for worship each Sunday in the sanctuary, the Worship Commission invites and encourages us to become quiet as we light the Christ Candle. Prelude music has now been changed to Centering Music. The Worship Commission invites your feedback as we experiment with a new order of worship.

Land Acknowledgement compiled by Florence Schloneger from words by Mark Charles and VT #878
As we do on the first Sunday of each month,
  we acknowledge that we worship
  on the land of the Kanza, Osage, and Wichita.
We thank them for their care and respect for this land
  and acknowledge the injustice of their forced removal.
We ask the Spirit to heal our histories
  and find new paths of right relationships with them
  and all of creation.

This Week at BCMC: January 7—14, 2024
Sunday, January 7, 2024—Epiphany
9:30 a.m.    Worship   Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/VuqUJRWBAbQ?feature=share

10:45 a.m.   Faith Formation
1:30 p.m. Memorial Service for Jim Banman and Judy Coover in the
Kidron Bethel Hall
Memorial Service for Jim Banman and Judy Coover
Please remember in your prayers Jim’s children, Steven, Susan, Christine, and T.J., and their families as they mourn the death of Jim on December 9. A joint memorial service for Jim and his wife, Judith Coover, who died in 2020, will be held on January 7, 2024, 1:30 p.m. at Kidron Hall, Kidron Bethel Village.
4 p.m. Service of Remembrance in the sanctuary—All are invited
YouTube Link for the Service of Remembrance:
https://youtube.com/live/-xBnxGYqLTU?feature=share

Service of Remembrance
In order to recognize and mourn the loss of our loved ones from 2023, Bethel College Mennonite Church is hosting a Service of Remembrance today, Jan. 7, at 4 p.m., in the BCMC sanctuary.

The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 am Faith Formation—Intergenerational class meets in Fellowship Hall;   High School – Room 24    Adult Classes: Agape Class meets in the nursery; Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21) Seekers (Rm 28)

Monday, January 8, 2024
7 p.m. Facilities Committee meeting in the fellowship hall
Tuesday, January 9, 2024
9 a.m. Women’s Fellowship Executive Board meets in Room 14
7:00 p.m. Finance Committee meeting in Room 14
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the sanctuary
Friday, January 12, 2024
11 a.m.      Memorial service of Nancy Hilty in the sanctuary followed by a light lunch in fellowship hall
Sunday, January 14, 2024
9:30 a.m.   Worship with sermon by Roger Neufeld Smith
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation

We offer sympathy to the family of Nancy Hilty. Nancy died Dec. 30, 2023. Nancy fell and suffered a massive brain bleed. The memorial service will be at Bethel College Mennonite Church Fri., Jan. 12, 11 a.m. followed by a light lunch. Remember in your prayers Nancy’s son Daniel, Daniel’s wife Kristen, and their children along with extended family.

Interested in becoming a member of Bethel College Mennonite Church?
If you are interested in becoming a member, or transferring membership, or learning more about membership at BCMC, please contact Elizabeth Schmidt, Pastor of Congregational Care. She will be happy to visit with you!

Roger’s Whereabouts : Roger will be back in Newton on Wednesday, January 10. Whether he’s in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone call (785-220-1968).

BCMC Offering for December 31, 2023: General $9,684.29; Memorial Fund $25; Plant Fund $50; Library Reserve Fund $55; Kitchen Fund $13; Solar Fund $1,000.

A Thank You from Beaty and Jim Robb
We wish to thank the congregation for helping us celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary. We appreciate the many kind words expressed in
person or in the sentiments expressed on cards. It was good to share cake and punch with our congregational family being a part of the BCMC
congregation for 41 of our 50 years of marriage. The connections and friendships we have made run deep and we cherish our time with you.
Thanks need to go specifically to Adam and Jill for their efforts planning and carrying out this event. Getting together with you all on Sunday morning in the Gathering Place was a great way to celebrate.
With love and good will...Beaty and Jim Robb

From the Board:
Congregational Meeting:
Our next congregational meeting will be held at 12:45 p.m. on January 28, 2024. The following two items will be on the agenda:

Welcome Statement:
The BCMC board has approved a recommendation from the Inclusion Task Group to revise our congregation’s welcome statement which is in the church’s constitution. This announcement constitutes the required 30 day notice for a vote on a constitutional change. The revised version follows:
Bethel College Mennonite Church is an open and affirming congregation centered in the life and teachings of Jesus. Embracing the divine within each person, we warmly welcome any and all into fellowship without regard to race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, economic status, marital status and age.

Change in Moderator Model:
The Board has proposed a bylaws change to shift church officer positions from Moderator Elect and Moderator, each serving two-year terms with a total commitment of four years, to Moderator Elect, Moderator, and Past Moderator. In the new model, each position would be held for one year with the Moderator Elect moving on to Moderator and Past Moderator in the following years, thus serving a three-year commitment. In summary, the new model shortens the term of commitment by one year and establishes a three-person leadership team.
The proposal and rationale can be accessed here.

Pastoral News:
The Board has renewed Roger Neufeld Smith’s half-time contract for an additional year (or less if a new regular pastor is found). We are so grateful for his willingness to continue offering his fine work, administrative and communication skills, and wisdom to our congregation in this transitional time.
The Board has also renewed Elizabeth Schmidt’s half-time contract for an additional year. Since she is now credentialed, her title has been changed to Pastor of Congregational Care. Her job description, although revised, remains fundamentally the same. Feedback from those working most closely with her was overwhelmingly positive and confirmed her pastoral gifts, organizational skills, and caring concern for congregants. Thank you, Elizabeth!

Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza: Call for Prayer and Action for Peace and Justice in Israel and Palestine.   Witness Commission

On Dec. 19 Mennonite Action brought together nearly 2000 Mennonites and interfaith allies across North America to call for an immediate cease fire. Some of our members joined other Kansas Mennonites at the offices of Senators Moran and Marshall in Wichita and Topeka. Members can read Bob Atchison’s article in the Jan. 2 issue of the Newton Kansan. Atchison chairs the Mennonite Palestine Israel Network and the Western District Task Force. On Jan. 16, Mennonite Action, see online, is organizing action in Washington D.C. Members might also consider registering on zoom for the “Emergency Summit for Gaza” Jan. 12-13 in Chicago organized by the Fellowship of Reconciliation (FOR).    The Witness Commission urges: 1. Support for the MCC humanitarian relief effort in Gaza; 2. Prayer for President Biden and other political leaders to support an immediate and permanent cease fire in Gaza; 3. Phone calls to the Wichita offices of Senators Moran and Marshall.

Newton Community for Racial Justice is hosting its annual anti-racism training workshop from January 12 – 14 at the Newton Rec Center. If you are willing to provide snacks, help setup and serve Sunday lunch, or monitor the coffee pot for 2 hours, please click here to sign up. Thank you, Margaret Toews for NCRJ

Bethel College Announcements
· (Sun., Jan. 7) – Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum, “The Western Meadowlark: The State Bird, but Not the Only Exceptional Bird in Kansas,” with local birding expert Gregg Friesen, 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum at Bethel College.
· Sun., Jan. 21 – Bethel College Music Department Honors Recital, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel, featuring freshman, sophomore and junior vocal and instrumental students who performed exceptionally during the fall 2023 semester.
· Bethel College’s Faculty Speaker series begins Friday, Jan. 26, and continues through April 19. During that time, seven different Bethel faculty members will discuss how listening opens up opportunities for learning as well as pathways for building, renewing and repairing relationships. All lectures are from 11 a.m.-noon in Kidron Hall at Kidron Bethel Village in North Newton, and are open to the public. Watch for further details!

Footsteps of Paul in Greece + 3-Night Cruise May 27 – June 6, 2024. Led by Pastor Weldon Martens, Grace Hill Mennonite Church; Whitewater, KS. This is a 11-Day Tour & Cruise to Athens, Thessalonica, Philippi, Corinth, Crete, Patmos, Ephesus, Mykonos & Santorini. Cost: $3,219 + flights. Registration: Due by January 18, 2024. Contact Pastor Weldon Martens at: weldon.martens@gmail.com / 402-202-9276. Complete tour information & registration at www.tourwithweldon.com

Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp
RMMC Scrapbook Retreat, Jan. 26-28 – Creating paper or digital photo books and sharing ideas and conversation is just another day for scrapbook participants. You still have time to register and spend the weekend documenting life memories and fellowshipping with others. Register at rmmc.org!

Everence^® January Workshop: Social Security and retirement income
Everence^® will hold an informative Social Security and retirement income workshop on Thursday, January 25, starting at 6:30 p.m. Topics will include, Social Security strategies, including when to begin taking benefits, risks that can impact your retirement savings plus strategies to help your income last throughout retirement. There will also be plenty of time for questions.
The in-person workshop will be at the Everence office: 3179 N. Main St. Suite 1B, North Newton, KS. Information will be presented by staff from the Everence offices in Central Kansas. To register contact Everence at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com.

For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
For Mennonite Central Committee “In Touch” press here
For Mennonite Men “Engage” press here

Greetings!

I’m writing to share about the Winter 2024 issue of Intersections: MCC Theory and Practice Quarterly, on the theme of “education for displaced children.” It is available now on-line here. Compiled by Lynn Longenecker, this issue features learning from and analysis of MCC’s support for children who are either refugees outside their country or are internally displaced within it. Authors reflect on the contextualized ways MCC works at education for displaced children in DR Congo, Guatemala, Uganda, Canada, Lebanon and Egypt.

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

Warm regards,

Alain Epp Weaver

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Safe Church, Mennonite Church USA’s newly formed abuse prevention ministry, now has a webpage available on the MC USA website. The webpage offers resources, including the updated Circle of Grace curriculum, to help faith communities keep children, youth and vulnerable adults safe from all abuse. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/safechurch

Menno Snapshots

Mennonite Action, a grassroots movement, united more than 800 Mennonites representing 250 congregations across the U.S. and Canada in a mobilizing call for peace, on Tuesday, Nov. 28, on Zoom. The “Call to Action” served as a resounding demand for a ceasefire, an end to the U.S.- and Western-funded occupation of Palestine, and a push for lasting peace. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/mennonite-action

Join us for Hope for the Future in Dallas, Texas on February 9-11, 2024. Hope for the Future is an annual gathering that brings together Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) leaders connected to Mennonite Church USA from across the nation. View the PDF here: mennoniteusa.org/slide/hftf23-savedate Learn more here: mennoniteusa.org/hopeforthefuture

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

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Lora Nafziger and Mitch Rhodes, who began a three-year assignment in September with United Mission to Nepal (UMN), working from the United States. Pray for this family, as Lora, Mitch and two of their four sons take up residence in Kathmandu, Nepal, this month. Lora is serving as UMN’s staff support and counseling advisor, and Mitch serves as the expatriate coordinator.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC and all its congregations as we begin a new year, remembering that the steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, and God’s mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning!

Announcements for December 31, 2023–January 7, 2024

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR
December 31, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
December 31, 2023
First Sunday After Christmas

Prelude—Go Tell it on the Mountain—Verlene Garber & Ben Lichti

Welcome and Prayer —Roger Neufeld Smith

Hymn—Come Away from Rush and Hurry—VT 9

*Advent Candle Hymn—Hope Is a Candle, verses 1-5 VT 211

Advent Candle Lighting—Elizabeth, Gabby, Jake, Jill & Adam Robb

*Advent Litany—Christ—VT 916

*Hymns—O Come, All Ye Faithful (Verses 1, 3, 4)—VT 241
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing—VT 247

Scripture Reading—Isaiah 11:1-6—Roger Neufeld Smith

Hymns—What Child is This—VT 267 and Helpless and Hungry—VT 268
Holy Night, Blessed Night—VT 262

Scripture Reading—Luke 2:22-40

Children’s Conversation based on Luke 2:22-40—The Robb Family

*Hymn—Come, Join in Mary’s Prophet-Song—VT 246

Meditation—Roger Neufeld Smith

*Hymn—Joy to the World—VT 240

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Break Forth, O Beauteous Heavenly Light—VT 269–People with December birthdays come forward for a blessing, please bring a hymnal

Benediction—VT 1064

Postlude— In Dulci Jubilo (VT 261)–Verlene Garber and Ben Lichti

*You are invited to stand
Audio-Visual—Francis Toews
Keyboard—Verlene Garber
Trumpet—Ben Lichti

Sunday, December 31, the worship service will begin at 10 a.m. We will sing a lot of Christmas hymns so come prepared to sing and rejoice! There will be no Sunday School.

The congregation is invited to join Jim and Beaty Robb in celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary with a cake and punch
reception after worship Sunday, December 31. Please join the Robb family in the Gathering Space for fellowship time as we celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary, which was on December 28. All are welcome!

Roger’s Whereabouts : Roger will be driving back to Newton on Sunday, December 31. He will be back in Newton on Wednesday, January 10.
Whether he’s in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone call (785-220-1968).

BCMC Offering for December 24, 2023: General $29,197.61; MCC $25; Gen Fund 2024 $1,500; Library Reserve Fund $10; Living Stones $900; Women’s Fellowship $513; Caring fund $1,020.16.

This Week at BCMC: December 31, 2023—January 7, 2024
Sun., Dec. 31, 2023—First Sunday After Christmas
10 a.m. Worship No Sunday School
Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/eiX9SC9zi6U?feature=share

Mon., January 1, 2024—Happy New Year!
Church will be locked; church office closed for the holiday
Wed., Jan. 3, 2024
7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the sanctuary
Thurs., Jan. 4, 2024
6:30 p.m.   Chancel Bells Rehearsal in Room B7
7 p.m.         Church Board meets in Room 14
Sun., Jan. 7, 2024—Epiphany
9:30 a.m.    Worship with sermon by Trent Voth; music by the Chancel Choir
10:45 a.m.   Faith Formation
Trent Voth is Bethel College’s Assistant Professor of Bible and Religion. He grew up near Bethel’s campus (Halstead, KS) but comes to Bethel by way of Toronto, ON where he obtained his PhD in Theology in New Testament studies. His primary research interests are in the Gospel of Mark and Anabaptist Theologies.
1:30 p.m. Memorial Service for Jim Banman and Judy Coover in the
Kidron Bethel Hall
4 p.m. Service of Remembrance in the sanctuary—All are invited

Service of Remembrance
As we are in the holiday season that brings joy with the promise of new life and love birthed into our world, there is also grief as we miss those who have passed from this world in 2023. In order to recognize and mourn the loss of our loved ones from 2023, Bethel College Mennonite Church is hosting a Service of Remembrance on January 7, 2024 at 4 p.m., in the BCMC sanctuary.

We offer sympathy to the family of Don Kaufman. Don died December 18 at Kidron Bethel Village. Please pray for Don’s children, Kendra Kaufman, Galen Kaufman, and Nathan (and Jill) Kaufman, and their families.

Memorial Service for Jim Banman and Judy Coover
Please remember in your prayers Jim’s children, Steven, Susan, Christine, and T.J., and their families as they mourn the death of Jim on December 9. A joint memorial service for Jim and his wife, Judith Coover, who died in 2020, will be held on January 7, 2024, 1:30 p.m. at Kidron Hall, Kidron Bethel Village.

The library’s theme for the month of December is Advent/Christmas. We have quite a number of fiction/nonfiction choices for all ages. You might want to consider checking out books for visiting family members. We have so many good choices. Also, due to the Advent/Christmas Everybody books in the children’s section of the library, all the puzzles are now located in the library on the west wall. There are some wonderful choices for holiday family time. A suggested donation of $5 for a puzzle helps support the supplies needed to run the library.

Also on the west wall are a number of new books that were recently purchased through our budget and sale at Faith and Life Bookstore. Come check out the new selections in all genres. A brief write up of the new books is available by the library computer. Happy Holiday reading!
— Library Committee

The bulletin covers for Advent are used by permission from Salt Project,
https://www.saltproject.org/

Changes for the Beginning of Worship
As we begin 2024, the Worship Commission will be experimenting with a new format to begin our time of worship. There will be no prelude, but instead worship will begin with the sound of a bell or chime and lighting of the Christ candle at 9:30 a.m., then will move into a time of gathering/centering music, and will then move to the welcome and opening prayer. As you enter the worship space, we ask that once the chime sounds and the candle is lit, you refrain from conversation so that all can prepare for our time of worship together. The Worship Commission appreciates your flexibility and openness to trying new things in the new year!

Questionnaire for the Solar Project is due by January 3, 2024

At the December 10, 2023 congregational meeting, BCMC approved initiating Phase I of the Solar Panel project. As part of Phase I, BCMC is using this Questionnaire.

For the questionnaire and more information click here

Paper copies of the questionnaire are available on the ledge in the BCMC Gathering Place. Place these completed forms in the basket on the ledge. Envelopes have been provided.
Contact Margaret Toews with any questions.

.Bethel College Announcements
· Kauffman Museum at Bethel College invites you to visit during the holidays. Open hours are Tues.-Fri. 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and weekends 1:30-4:30 p.m. (closed Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve). The permanent exhibits are “Of Land and People,” “Mirror of the Martyrs” and “Mennonite Immigrant Furniture,” and the museum store is also open during those hours, with books, games, art and other gift items for sale (see kauffmanmuseum.org/museum-store/).
· Sun., Jan. 7 – Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum, “The Western Meadowlark: The State Bird, but Not the Only Exceptional Bird in Kansas,” with local birding expert Gregg Friesen, 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum at Bethel College.

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

The WDC Office and Resource Library will be closed through Jan 1. We will open again on Tuesday, Jan 2.

Register now for the MCC South Texas Learning Tour, February 4-9, 2024! This immigration-focused learning tour presents a unique opportunity to engage directly with organizations making a positive impact on our neighbors. You won’t want to miss this opportunity. Details and online registration can be found at mcc.org/south-texas-lt. Deadline to sign up is Jan. 20. Please contact Abraham Diaz Alonso with questions,
abrahamdiazalonso@mcc.org.

For Mennonite Mission Network “News from around the world” press here
For Christmas and New Year’s message from Mennonite World Conference press here

From Mennonite Mission Network year end message press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Menno Snapshots

H.A Penner, war tax resister/redirector, explains the benefits of the Mennonite Church USA Church Peace Tax Fund, which offers an opportunity for Mennonites to redirect the portion of their taxes that would have otherwise supported war efforts toward peacebuilding efforts. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/war-tax-redirection

Mennonite Church USA is helping to fuel growth and diversity with its 2023 Thrive Church Planting Grants. This year’s repeat award recipients, Brooklyn (New York) Peace Church and Community of Hope Mennonite Church, Bellingham, Washington, are building circles of community in creative, Jesus-centered ways. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/church-plants-thrive

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Although 2023 is ending with much suffering and violence around the world, join Mennonite Mission Network personnel in proclaiming our hope in Jesus, who has overcome evil and injustice. May each of us continue to “be the Gospel” wherever we find ourselves.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: We lift up our church mission before God, seeking His divine intervention and guidance. We pray for the success of our church planting efforts, that hearts may be touched, and lives transformed by God’s love. Bless our church planters, provide resources, and strengthen the commitment of all involved. May Your light shine through our mission, bringing hope and healing to those we serve. In Jesus’ name, we present these requests. Amen. -WDC Church Planting Commission

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Announcements and Worship Service for December 24, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR
December 24, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
December 24, 2023
Fourth Sunday of Advent: Joy
Children’s Christmas Service

Prelude—The First Noel (Tufenkjian)—Abby Koontz
                  What Child is This—Brett and Collin Gaeddert
                  Silent Night—Caleb Koontz
                  French Lullaby—Lincoln Kohlman
                  Away in A Manger—Lucy Burch and Kenna Graber
                  O Holy Night—Naomi Koontz

*Advent Candle Hymn—Hope Is a Candle—verses 1-4—VT 211

Advent Candle Lighting—Lawrence, Lincoln, Megan & Brad Kohlman

*Advent Litany—Joy—VT 916

Welcome and Prayer—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—He Came Down—VT 239—5 verses: Joy, Hope, Peace, Love, Joy

Children’s Christmas Service—Sing and Tell the Story

*Hymn—With Mary Sing Magnificat—VT 208

Prayers of God’s People

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

Benediction

Postlude—Hark, the Herald Angels Sing—Lucy Burch and Kenna Graber

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Keyboard—Will Wiebe-Friesen
Audio visual—Ben Lichti

SING AND TELL THE STORY!

SCENES AND SONGS

Scene 1—Mary’s Home in Nazareth
Scene 2—Elizabeth’s Home in Judean Hill Country
                    Song—And My Spirit Sings
Scene 3—Joseph’s Carpenter Shop in Nazareth
Scene 4—On the Road from Nazareth to Bethlehem
                      Song—From Nazareth to Bethlehem
Scene 5—Shepherd’s Campsite near Bethlehem
Scene 6—Bethlehem
Scene 7—Everywhere!
                        Song—Go Tell It On the Mountain—VT 252

STORY TELLERS AND SINGERS

Faith Burch
Lucy Burch
Payne Claassen
Collin Gaeddert
Brett Gaeddert
Emma Gering
Emerson Gering
Adah Hodge
Lawrence Kohlman
Lincoln Kohlman

Abby Koontz
Ani Koontz
Naomi Koontz
Mara Oswald
Gabby Robb
Jake Robb
Lily Schloneger
Abram Wall
Mabel Wall
Addie Zerger
Justin Zerger

THANKS

Leaders:  Judy Harder, Mary Ellen Hodge, Tim Hodge, Jill Robb
Musicians:  Will Wiebe-Friesen, Suzy Burch, Tim Hodge, Susie Swartley
Back Drop Design and Builders:  Lauren Friesen, Ron Peters, Keith Harder
Props:  Judy Harder, Glen Ediger, David Kreider, Rose Haury
Intergenerational Sunday School Activities:  Deb Gering, Janet Friesen, Doug Miller, Maisie and Miles Brubacher
Others:  Ben Lichti, Audio-Visual and Monica Lichti

AND PARENTS!

LESSON AND CAROLS SERVICE FOR DECEMBER 24, 2023 AT 11 P.M.
YouTube Link for December 24, 11 p.m. Lessons and Carols Service
https://youtube.com/live/r54eKKox2BQ?feature=share

For the bulletin for the Lessons Carols Service press here

The church office will be closed during the week between Christmas and December 30.
There will be no Wednesday email on December 27.

Sunday, December 31, the worship service will begin at 10 a.m. We will sing a lot of Christmas hymns so come prepared to sing and rejoice!

Roger’s Whereabouts : Though the church office will be closed next week, Roger will be back in Newton on Wednesday (12/27) to complete planning for the December 31 worship service and to respond to unexpected circumstances. Feel free to call him at 785-220-1968. He will be celebrating with family in Newton on Friday afternoon and Saturday, but will lead worship on Sunday. Roger will drive back to Newton Sunday afternoon Whether he’s in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone call (785-220-1968).

BCMC Offering for December 17, 2023: General Fund $8,940.33; Plant Fund $108.33; Caring Fund $40; Living Stones $20; Flower Fund $25; Kitchen Fund $5.

BCMC Programs

Christmas Eve Sunday, December 24, 2023 – 10 a.m.  Christmas Worship Service with the children and youth in the sanctuary followed by refreshments in the gathering place :  NOTE the change of time – worship starting at 10 a.m.
No Sunday school
Congregants are welcome to bring Christmas snacks to share for our coffee time in the gathering place after the worship service Dec. 24.

December 24, 2023, 11 p.m.       Lessons and Carols and candle-lighting service in the sanctuary

Sunday, December 31, 2023 – 10 a.m. First Sunday after Christmas
Christmas Hymn Sing in the sanctuary — NOTE the later time for worship
No Sunday school

The bulletin covers for Advent are used by permission from Salt Project,
https://www.saltproject.org/

Changes for your church directories:
· Note that Doug Penner’s email address is: dougpenn@sbcglobal.net
· Andrew Thiesen’s new address: 309 Davis Street, Garden City, KS 67846

Questionnaire for the Solar Project

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

The WDC Office and Resource Library will be closed for Christmas and New Years from Dec 23 through Jan 1. We will open again on Tuesday, Jan 2. Be sure to stop by the WDC Resource Library prior to this to pick up books for your kids, your grandkids or yourself to enjoy during the holiday break!

Register now for the MCC South Texas Learning Tour, February 4-9, 2024! This immigration-focused learning tour presents a unique opportunity to engage directly with organizations making a positive impact on our neighbors. You won’t want to miss this opportunity. Details and online registration can be found at mcc.org/south-texas-lt. Deadline to sign up is Jan. 20. Please contact Abraham Diaz Alonso with questions,
abrahamdiazalonso@mcc.org.

For Mennonite Church USA Christmas Greetings press here
Mennonite Church USA’s The Corinthian Plan is open for enrollment on Nov.1 through Dec. 31, 2023, for a Jan. 1, 2024 start date. The Corinthian Plan is a self-funded, health care plan for pastors and church workers, sponsored and owned by Mennonite Church USA. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/open-tcp24

Mennonite Church USA has relaunched Equipping, a quarterly, resource e-newsletter for pastors and leaders across MC USA. Read the Fall 2023 issue here: mennoniteusa.org/equipping-archive-11-2024 View the PDF here: mennoniteusa.org/pdf/equipping-subscribe

Menno Snapshots

Jon Carlson, moderator for Mennonite Church USA, reflects on how Mennonite Church USA is better together and how our collective participation in the church shapes us and reflects who we are as a body. Read his reflections here: mennoniteusa.org/where-mc-usa-going

For Mennonite Disaster Service press here
For Mennonite Disaster Service “On The Level” press here
For Christmas Greetings from Mennonite Mission Network press here
For Mennonite World Conference “Info” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for peace in the land where Jesus was born more than 2000 years ago. Pray, especially, for partners — Bethlehem Bible College, Nazareth Hospital and Nazareth Village — who faithfully work to peel away the layers of fear and hate that distort Jesus’ message of peace, in a time of escalating violence in Israel-Palestine.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Rejoice in the gift of Emmanuel, God-with-us! Give thanks for the many ways that WDC congregations embody Jesus’ presence in the world today.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!

Announcements and Worship Service for December 17, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
December 17, 2023
Third Sunday of Advent: Love

Prelude—Nocturno, Op. 7 (Franz Strauss); Allegro moderato from Horn Concerto No. 1 in C Minor (Franz Strauss)— Chris Miertschin, horn; Will Wiebe-Friesen, piano

*Advent Candle Hymn—Hope Is a Candle, verses 1-3—VT 211

Advent Candle Lighting—Coralee Shenk, Jeanette & Steve Stucky

*Advent Litany—Love—VT 916

Welcome and Prayer—Esther Kreider Eash

*Hymn—O Come, O Come Immanuel—VT 210

Children’s Conversation—Esther Koontz

Anthem—Christmas is Here (Dale Wood)— Chancel Choir; Riley King, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist

Scripture Reading—John 1:1-9

*Hymn—The Light Shines in the Darkness—Bulletin insert
Adah Hodge, Mara Oswald, Lily Schloneger sing verses—Congregation sings chorus

Scripture Reading—I John 4:7-12

Sermon—God’s Love Revealed—Roger Neufeld Smith

*Hymn—Love Came Down at Christmas—VT 255

Prayers of God’s People

(Hymn Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord— VT 219)

*Hymn Love Has Come—VT 258

Benediction

Postlude—Toccata on Joy to the World (Brenda Portman)—Will Wiebe-Friesen
* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Keyboard—Will Wiebe-Friesen
Audio visual—Frances Toews

Chris Miertschin, assistant professor of music and director of bands at Bethel College, is our guest musician this Sunday. He lives in Abilene with his husband Jair and plays horn with the Salina Symphony Orchestra and Theatre Salina.

Used by permission from MennoMedia and Herald Press

This Week at BCMC: December 17—24, 2023
Sun., Dec. 17, 2023—Third Sunday of Advent
9:30 a.m. Worship     10:45 a.m. Faith Formation
Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/Wi3ZHcRxKYA?feature=share

The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation—Intergenerational class (fellowship hall);   High School (Room 24)    Adult Classes: Agape (nursery); Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21) Seekers (Rm 28)
Tues., Dec. 19, 2023
11 a.m.      Staff Meeting
7 p.m.        Womens’ Fellowship Program in Fellowship Hall—Prairie Bronze Ensemble Bell Choir will perform Christmas music—All are invited
Wed., Dec. 20, 2023
7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal in the sanctuary
Thurs., Dec. 21, 2023
5:30 p.m.   Pizza followed by the rehearsal at 6 p.m.
5:30 p.m.   Rehearsal for Christmas worship service in sanctuary
Sun., Dec. 24, 2023—Fourth Sunday of Advent
10 a.m.      Christmas Worship Service with the children and youth in the sanctuary followed by refreshments in the gathering place
No Sunday school
11 p.m.       Lessons and Carols and candle-lighting service in the sanctuary

The church office will be closed during the week between Christmas and December 30.

Roger’s Whereabouts :  Roger will be driving back to Topeka Sunday afternoon (12/17). He will be celebrating Christmas with his Topeka church, then back in Newton on Wed., Dec. 27, to help plan the BCMC worship service for Dec. 31. He will be available for pastoral care concerns that week. Whether he’s in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone call (785-220-1968).

The Prairie Bronze Ensemble will perform Christmas music Tues., Dec. 19, in Fellowship Hall at 7 p.m. The public is invited so please bring friends and family to enjoy the bell choir sponsored by BCMC Women’s Fellowship.

Congregants are welcome to bring Christmas snacks to share for our coffee time in the gathering place after the worship service Dec. 24. There will be no Sunday School on Dec. 24.

From the Board:
Thank you for your attendance and participation Sunday, December 10, in the vote indicating support for moving ahead with the solar panel project. The vote was 68 yes, 5 no; this means that more than 93% of those voting were in favor of further exploring solar panels on our church. Phase II will now begin. You can expect a chance to further express interest and make a pledge within the next several weeks. There will likely be a final vote for a more specific proposal at our next congregational meeting on January 28. Thank you so much to the solar panel subgroup of the Creation Care Committee, to the Finance Committee, and to several board members (specially Margaret Toews and Jon Zerger) for much hard work on this project and in preparation for the presentation yesterday.
— Ada Schmidt-Tieszen, BCMC Board Chair/Moderator

Public Witness in Wichita for Gaza Ceasefire, December 19

The BCMC Witness Commission along with the WDC Israel Palestine Task Force invites you, family, friends and allies to join Mennonite Action on Tuesday, December 19, for a public witness at Senator Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall’s offices in Wichita, KS to ask for a ceasefire in Gaza and Israel. We will meet at Lorraine Avenue Mennonite Church, 655 S Lorraine ST, at 10:30 am to rehearse the actions which include prayer, singing and sharing bread with congressional staffers and each other. We encourage fasting or bring your own lunch. We will drive and park near the offices of the Senators. There may be a $2-$3 parking fee. There will be a 6-block walk between Senator Moran and Senator Marshall’s offices. This is a somber event, and we encourage participants to wear black. A script of the event will be provided, and we should be finished by 3 pm. Specific questions may be referred to Kathy Neufeld Dunn at 620-755-4331 or Bob Atchison at 785-313-2292. Those from BCMC interested in attending are encouraged to gather on Sunday morning after worship in the front of the sanctuary to discuss plans and possible carpooling.

Sympathy Notice
We offer sympathy to the family of Jim Banman. Jim died December 9 at Kidron Bethel Village. Please remember in your prayers Jim’s children, Steven, Susan, Christine, and T.J., and their families. The funeral will be January 7, 2024, 1:30 p.m. at Kidron Hall, Kidron Bethel Village.

Service of Remembrance
In order to recognize and mourn the loss of our loved ones from 2023, Bethel College Mennonite Church is hosting a Service of Remembrance on January 7, 2024 at 4 pm, in the BCMC sanctuary.

The library’s theme for the month of December is Advent/Christmas. We have quite a number of fiction/nonfiction choices for all ages. You might want to consider checking out books for visiting family members. We have so many good choices. Also, due to the Advent/Christmas Everybody books in the children’s section of the library, all the puzzles are now located in the library on the west wall. There are some wonderful choices for holiday family time. A suggested donation of $5 for a puzzle helps support the supplies needed to run the library.
Also on the west wall are a number of new books that were recently purchased through our budget and sale at Faith and LIfe Bookstore. Come check out the new selections in all genres. A brief write up of the new books is available by the library computer. Happy Holiday reading!
— Library Committee

New BCMC directories are available in the Gathering Place between the mailboxes and in the south entrance on the glass table.

It’s about over, in just two weeks we will know for sure how we did financially this year. So if you haven’t gotten all your pledges fulfilled or if you want to give some money to the church or perhaps need an additional tax write-off, it’s time to do it. From the Finance Committee we want to thank you for making this a great year and we urge you to help us finish well so that it can be a really great year. Looking ahead to 2024, the financial picture is much more cloudy. There is a big gap between the intents and the proposed budget. We and the Church Board are looking for creative ways to deal with this problem. You can help by making sure that you have pledged or that you have pledged your maximum. Also your suggestions are coveted and your prayers for wisdom are coveted. With your help 2024 can be a great year also.
— Finance Committee

BCMC Women’s Fellowship Birthday Calendars are available from WF Executive Board members:
Lois Brubacher 620-837-3281; Lois Preheim 316-804-4713
Brenda Turner 316-283-8131; Janet Voth 316-283-1922
The suggested donation price is $10. This calendar project is designed to help build community and the donation is used to support WF Ministries.

Registration for the upcoming Kansas Mennonite Men’s Chorus season is at hand. Please consider joining. Some of you are already on the list and we certainly encourage new members. For further details please contact Joe Peters, BCMC contact.

BCMC Offering for December 10, 2023: General Fund $20,891.75; Gen Fund 2024 $2,125; Caring Fund $100; Library Reserve Fund $50; Flower Fund $20; Kitchen Fund $17; Women’s Fellowship $110; Solar Fund $3,000; Gladys Niles Memorial $270.

The Deacons Commission is working on a “Thinking of You” campaign for people who are isolated due to 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 gathering place during the week for anyone to write a note before we send them out. Thank you! — Deacon Commission

Creation Care: While you are active in your Christmas shopping please remember to save plastic bags for recycling. We have collected 500 pounds with a goal of 1,000 pounds. — Vern and Jane Goering

Bethel College/Kauffman Museum Announcements
(Sun., Dec. 17) – Kauffman Museum celebration of the 75th anniversary of the longest running community science project in the world, the Harvey County Christmas Bird Count. Come and go at the museum from 1:30-4:30 p.m. to see the progress of the special exhibit “A Day with the Birds,” with brief remarks at 3 p.m.

Kauffman Museum at Bethel College invites you to visit during the holidays. Open hours are Tues.-Fri. 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and weekends 1:30-4:30 p.m. (closed Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve). The permanent exhibits are “Of Land and People,” “Mirror of the Martyrs” and “Mennonite Immigrant Furniture,” and the museum store is also open during those hours, with books, games, art and other gift items for sale (see kauffmanmuseum.org/museum-store/).

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

Greetings from Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp,Below, please find the following announcements for your congregation for upcoming camp programs here at RMMC.RMMC Online Trading Post: Still looking for that perfect Christmas gift? Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp has you covered. Check out the online Trading Post at tradingpost@rmmc.org for t-shirts, sweatshirts, and other RMMC items we can ship to you! We would also love to work with you to provide the gift of a summer camp experience for a loved one. Contact RMMC to discuss the options and to receive a coupon to represent your gift. Any gift you give is also a gift to camp and we appreciate your support. RMMC Volunteer Opportunities: The ministry at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp is possible because of the dedication of countless volunteers. Camp is still in need of volunteers for our winter programs, including Jr High Snow camp January 19-21, and Sr High snow camp February 18-20. Please visit our volunteer page on the website rmmc.org to sign up!

Register now for the Mennonite Central Committee South Texas Learning Tour, February 4-9, 2024! This immigration-focused learning tour presents a unique opportunity to engage directly with organizations making a positive impact on our neighbors. You won’t want to miss this opportunity. Details and online registration can be found at mcc.org/south-texas-lt. Deadline to sign up is Jan. 20. Please contact Abraham Diaz Alonso with questions, abrahamdiazalonso@mcc.org.

For Anabaptist Disabilities Network press here

For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here

For Eastern Mennonite Seminary Shalom Collaboratory press here

For Mennonite Education Agency “Looking Ahead to 2024” press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Mennonite Church USA’s Constituency Leaders Council brainstormed strategies for strengthening youth engagement at its first meeting of the 2023-2025 biennium via Zoom on October 27, 2023. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/clc-youth-engagement

Save the date for Hope for the Future 2024, the annual gathering of Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) leaders from across the country who are connected to Mennonite Church USA, on February 9-11, 2024 in Dallas, Texas. Learn more here: mennoniteusa.org/hopeforthefuture View the PDF here: mennoniteusa.org/hftf24-savedate

Menno Snapshots

Cyneatha Millsaps, executive director of Mennonite Women USA, reflects on how gun violence has effected the country, her community and her own family in a blog for Mennonite Church USA. Read her reflection here: mennoniteusa.org/spiritually-emotionally-bankrupt

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: SADRA (Southern African Development and Reconstruction Agency) Conflict Transformation is a Mennonite Mission Network partner that offers a Christian response to injustice in South Africa. Pray for the conflict mediators, who train members of their communities to de-escalate situations that could lead to violence.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for generous financial support for WDC congregations, as they seek to meet annual budget goals for mission and ministry.

Announcements for December 10–17, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND WORSHIP SERVICE FOR DECEMBER 10, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
December 10, 2023
Second Sunday of Advent: Peace

Prelude—O Come, All Ye Faithful (VT 214); Ding Dong! Merrily on High (Dobrinski);
Coventry Carol (Eithun), Lucy Burch, Flute; Amen, Amen (Lamb)–Chancel Bell Choir, Verlene Garber, director; Members of the Chancel Bells: Lucy Burch, Suzanne Burch, Ben Lichti, Marlene Ewert, Jane Schmidt, Janet Lubbers, Brenda Turner, Carol Gebrand, Nathan Garber, Ron Garber, Gyles Garber, Caleb Garber

*Advent Candle Hymn— Hope Is a Candle, verses 1-2—VT 211

Advent Candle Lighting—Lucy and Faith Burch

*Advent Litany—Peace— VT 916

Welcome and Prayer—Adam Robb

*Hymn—Comfort, Comfort, O My People—VT 212

Children’s Conversation—Esther Koontz

Scripture Reading—Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13—Suzanne, Lucy, and Faith Burch

Sermon—A God of Peace—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—Unexpected and Mysterious—VT 229

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming—VT 216

Benediction

Postlude—Variations on In Dulci Jubilo (Theodore Beck)—Karen Schlabaugh

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Keyboard—Karen Schlabaugh
Audio visual—John Thiesen

There are poinsettias all around the church for this Christmas season. To see who donated these poinsettias and who they are in honor or memory of press here.

This Week at BCMC: December 10—17, 2023

Sun., Dec. 10, 2023—Second Sunday of Advent
9:30 a.m. Worship   Brief congregational meeting after worship
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation
Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/NqmMP6oZAcY?feature=share


The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation—Intergenerational class (fellowship hall);   High School (Room 24)    Adult Classes: Agape (nursery); Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21) Seekers (Rm 28)
Mon., Dec. 11, 2023
5:30 p.m.   Faith Formation Commission meeting at Mary Ellen Hodge’s home
Tues., Dec. 12, 2023
9 a.m.        Womens’ Fellowship Executive Board meeting in Fellowship Hall
11 a.m.      Staff Meeting
12 noon     Mid Kansas Investment Club meeting in Fellowship Hall
7:15 p.m.   Pastoral Search Committee meeting in Room 14
Wed., Dec. 13, 2023
7 p.m.        Rehearsal for Christmas worship service in Fellowship Hall
7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal in the sanctuary
Thurs., Dec. 14, 2023
9 a.m.        Community Playschool Christmas celebration in Fellowship Hall
Sun., Dec. 17, 2023—Third Sunday of Advent
9:30 a.m.   Worship with sermon by Roger Neufeld Smith; music by
Chancel Choir; 10:45 a.m. Faith Formation

Preparing for Worship
As we gather for worship each Sunday in the sanctuary, the Worship Commission invites and encourages us to become quiet as the prelude centers us for worship. Conversation is welcome and encouraged in the Gathering Place outside of the sanctuary during the prelude. We invite all who are present in the sanctuary to find their seats and quietly
participate in preparing for worship.

The church board is calling a brief special congregational meeting following worship in the sanctuary, Sunday, December 10, 2023 to act on the following board recommendation:
Does BCMC approve the initiation of a pledge drive for the purpose of soliciting funds and support for the solar project? The details of a pledge drive will be worked out if an initial vote indicates significant support.
The purpose of this vote is to determine the level of support from the congregation for a roof-top solar installation on our church. A review of the solar project as presented at the September congregational meeting and in two subsequent Sunday School hour meetings was distributed to mailboxes the week of November 27.

Roger’s Whereabouts : Roger is currently in Topeka. He will return to Newton this coming Wednesday, December 13 and will preach at BCMC on Sunday, December 17. Whether he’s in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone call (785-220-1968).

The library’s theme for the month of December is Advent/Christmas. We have quite a number of fiction/nonfiction choices for all ages. You might want to consider checking out books for visiting family members. We have so many good choices. Also, due to the Advent/Christmas Everybody books in the children’s section of the library, all the puzzles are now located in the library on the west wall. There are some wonderful choices for holiday family time. A suggested donation of $5 for a puzzle helps support the supplies needed to run the library.
Also on the west wall are a number of new books that were recently purchased through our budget and sale at Faith and LIfe Bookstore. Come check out the new selections in all genres. A brief write up of the new books is available by the library computer.   Happy Holiday reading!
— Library Committee

BCMC Offering for December 3, 2023: General Fund $8,964.33; Plant Fund $200; Gen Fund 2024 $25; Caring Fund $1,267; Library Reserve Fund $17; Kitchen Fund $21; Solar Fund $5,000; Gladys Niles Memorial $100.

Save the date, January 28, 2024 for Congregational Meeting and Soup Luncheon prior to the congregational meeting and the next fun-filled congregation and youth activity!

The bulletin covers for Advent are used by permission from Salt Project, https://www.saltproject.org/

BCMC Women’s Fellowship Executive Board meets Tuesday, December 12 at 9 a.m. in Room 14.

Save the Date – Sponsored by BCMC Women’s Fellowship
“Prairie Bronze Ensemble Bell Choir” will perform Christmas music at BCMC Tuesday, December 19 at 7 p.m. More details will follow next week.

BCMC Women’s Fellowship Birthday Calendars are available from WF
Executive Board members:
Lois Brubacher 620-837-3281; Lois Preheim     316-804-4713
Brenda Turner 316-283-8131;   Janet Voth        316-283-1922
The suggested donation price is $10. This calendar project is designed to help build community and the donation is used to support WF Ministries.

Mark Stucky, daughter Marike Stucky and son Matt Stucky would like to thank the BCMC community for your support after Gladys and Gail’s passing. Cards, emails, texts and hugs were appreciated a great deal. Your kind words sustained us through this difficult journey.

Registration for the upcoming Kansas Mennonite Men’s Chorus season is at hand. Please consider joining. Some of you are already on the list and we certainly encourage new members. For further details please contact Joe Peters. BCMC Contact call or text (316) 288-7031 or email joelilp@cox.net

Congregants are welcome to bring Christmas snacks to share for our coffee time in the gathering place after the worship service on December 24. There will be no Sunday School on December 24.

The church office will be closed during the week between Christmas and December 30.

New BCMC directories are available. There is a box in the Gathering Place between the mailboxes and two boxes in the south entrance on the glass table.

The Deacons Commission is working on a “Thinking of You” campaign for people who are isolated due to 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

Creation Care: While you are active in your Christmas shopping please remember to save plastic bags for recycling. We have collected 345 pounds with a goal of 1,000 pounds. — Vern and Jane Goering

You are invited to the Annual Christmas Brass Choir Concert at Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church, Sundayt, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m., 1304 K-15 Hwy, Goessel for some Good Old Fashioned Christmas Festive Music and Cheer!

Mennonite Central Committee Material Resources Center in North Newton is critically low on inventory: An MCC kit cannot be distributed until each item for the kit is assembled, but some supplies in the Material Resources Center are so low that kits cannot be processed for shipping. You can help by filling the following needs: new infant onesies and sleepers (6-12 month sizes); new bath towels (dark colored, light to medium weight); new hand towels (dark colored). Locally, MCC distributes prisoner care and returning citizen care kits, for those kits we currently need: men’s shirts (sizes XL, 2XL, 3XL — any color) and men’s underwear (sizes 2XL, 3XL — any color). Buy online and ship it to MCC or bring items to MCC in North Newton (121 E. 30th St, North Newton). Questions: contact brociamueller@mcc.org or 316.283.2720. A full list of MCC kit contents can be found at mcc.org/kits.

Bethel College Announcements
(Sun., Dec. 10) – 38th annual Lighting of the Green, 8 p.m. on the Bethel College campus

Last week to view the annual Senior Art Exhibit I in the Regier Gallery and the Drama Lab, both in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College, featuring the work of Rachel Geyer (lab) and Edel Miller (gallery). Exhibit closes Thurs., Dec. 14. Gallery hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays. To see “Solace in the Story,” e-mail rachelegeyer@bethelks.edu for an appointment.

Kauffman Museum at Bethel College invites you to visit during the holidays. Open hours are Tues.-Fri. 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and weekends 1:30-4:30 p.m. (closed Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve). The current special exhibit is “Climate and Energy Central,” along with the permanent exhibits “Of Land and People,” “Mirror of the Martyrs” and “Mennonite Immigrant Furniture.” The museum store is also open during those hours, with books, games, art and other gift items for sale (see kauffmanmuseum.org/museum-store/).

Mennonite Action’s 2nd Mass Meeting – Tuesday, December 12th at 7pm

At Mennonite Action’s last virtual meeting, more than 850 Mennonites from Canada, the US, and across the world joined together to grieve the ongoing violence in Palestine, to call for a ceasefire and an end to the occupation of Palestine, and to prepare to take nonviolent action together.

On December 12th, Mennonite Action will share updates about the work that has taken place since the last meeting. Participants will practice singing together in preparation for public actions on December 19th and hear from speakers who will remind us that our faith as Mennonites and Christians compels us to act.

MennoPIN and WDC Israel-Palestine Taskgroup both encourage your participation. Mennonite Action will continue to host events into the future, and BCMC will not be giving notice for all of them. If you want to sign up for the call on December 12 and stay connected with Mennonite Action, please sign up here: mennoniteaction.org/call

Hesston College Announcements

Melva Kauffman Lecture Series: Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery

This year the Melva Kauffman Lecture Series is pleased to host Mark Charles who will present on the topic of Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery. Charles is the son of an American woman (of Dutch heritage) and a Navajo man. He teaches with insight into the complexities of American history regarding race, culture and faith in order to help forge a path of healing and conciliation for the nation. The public is invited to hear his presentation at Hesston Mennonite Church Sunday, January 21, 2024, at 7 p.m.

Take a Bible Class at Hesston College

Interested in auditing a Bible course beginning in January? This spring semester Hesston College has opportunities to audit Biblical Literature, Jesus and the Gospels, and Peacemaking and Justice courses. Acceptance is based upon availability of open seating. If you are interested in enrolling in or auditing a Bible course, please contact amber.hett@hesston.edu before Jan. 9 to register. Spring courses are in session Jan. 10 to May 9. Be sure and ask about discounted rates for senior citizens.

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

Camp Mennoscah Announcements
Interviews for the 2024 Summer Staff start over the Christmas/semester break! This allows more in-person interviews, which often are a benefit to the applicant. Complete your application for Summer Staff now, especially those who are usually out-of-town, to give Camp Mennoscah staff the best chance to talk with you while you’re in the Newton-ish area. Summer staff must be 18 years old or older. The staff leadership positions receiving stipends are naturalist, crafts leader, lifeguard, grounds/maintenance, music leader, and office/media. Applications will be accepted until all positions are filled. The 2024 summer camp season begins with orientation for summer-long positions on June 2 and ends August 4. The application for 2024 Summer Staff at Camp Mennoscah can be found here.

Other events and happenings:

Find your work gloves and boots! The Camp Mennoscah board will be contacting volunteers to work on the Retreat Center HVAC project, likely to start early in 2024. Having volunteers help on a daily basis will save a substantial amount in the overall cost. The project includes not only the HVAC system, but also code deficiencies in electrical and plumbing, for example. It’s going to be exciting!
A huge thank you to the Camp Mennoscah board, staff and family members for helping remove decorations on the walls of the Retreat Center. The walls look bare, but the atmosphere is one of anticipation for the renovation of parts of the building. There will be more work days ahead for everyone to join in. Keep your eyes open!

For Mennonite Central Committee “In Touch” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

The Mennonite Church USA Executive Board strengthened key relationships and discussed creative strategies for convention and revitalization at the first Executive Board meeting of the biennium Oct. 18-20, 2023, in Cleveland, Ohio. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/eb-strengthens

Menno Snapshots

Karla Stoltzfus Detweiler, climate justice coordinator for Mennonite Church USA, reflects on how to respond to climate doom with resistance and resilience, after attending Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary’s Rooted and Grounded conference. Read her reflection here: mennoniteusa.org/path-through-climate-doom

Beryl Jantzi, Everence director of stewardship education, explores what “mammon” might mean in the New Testament and why Jesus states that a person cannot serve both God and mammon. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/god-and-mammon

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Alfonsina and José Oyanguren, who have walked alongside Toba-Qom churches and communities in the Argentine Chaco since 2004. Pray for them as they provide continuity in long-term relationships and encourage the preservation of Indigenous languages and cultures.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC’s Ministerial Leadership Commission as they meet this week, and as they provide support and resources for credentialed ministers in our conference.

Announcements for December 3–10, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND WORSHIP SERVICE FOR DECEMBER 3, 2023

To livestream the worship service:
On Sunday morning, around 9:20, go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen, which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box below that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. Anytime after the service concludes, you can watch a recording of the service at your convenience by clicking the same green LIVE STREAM button. Again, you will probably have to go to the gray box that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. That will transfer you to the BCMC YouTube Channel. You will have to click on the tab “Videos” to see all of the BCMC videos. Click the red button to see the bulletin/order of service.
OR – click on this link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/nDLhIx3OMHc?feature=share

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
December 3, 2023
First Sunday of Advent: Hope

Prelude—Cynthia Neufeld Smith
(As the prelude music plays, you are encouraged to keep conversation to a minimum)

*Advent Candle Hymn—Hope Is a Candle— VT 211— Congregation sing verse 1 only; Susie Swartley, flute

Advent Candle Lighting—Judy Harder

*Advent Litany—Hope VT 916

Welcome—(Land Acknowledgement) and Prayer—Adam Robb

*Hymn—Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus—VT 218

Children’s Conversation—Christmas Tree Ornaments—Jill Robb

Anthem—Chancel Choir

Scripture Reading—1 Corinthians 1:3-9—Judy Harder

Sermon—The Gift of Hope—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—Oh How Shall I Receive Thee—VT 215

Communion—Come to the Table of Grace—VT 461

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Hark! the Glad Sound!—VT 217

Benediction

Postlude—Cynthia Neufeld Smith

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Keyboard—Will Wiebe-Friesen
Audio visual—Ken Lamp

This Week at BCMC: December 3—10, 2023
Sun., Dec. 3, 2023—First Sunday of Advent
9:30 a.m. Worship   10:45 a.m. Faith Formation
Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/nDLhIx3OMHc?feature=share

The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation—Intergenerational class (fellowship hall);   High School (Room 24)    Adult Classes: Agape (nursery); Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21) Seekers (Rm 28)
Mon., Dec. 4, 2023
6:30 p.m.      Gifts Discernment Committee meeting in the chapel
7:30-9 p.m. “Messiah” Sing Through Rehearsal in the sanctuary
Wed., Dec. 6, 2023
11 a.m.      Singalong to Christmas portions of Handel’s Messiah with chamber orchestra and soloists, in the sanctuary. Scores will be provided.
6 p.m.         Anointing Service for Elizabeth Raid in the sanctuary
7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal in the sanctuary
Thurs., Dec. 7, 2023
6:30 p.m. Chancel Bell rehearsal in Room B7
7 p.m.        Church Board meeting in Room 14
7:30 p.m.   Hospitality Commission meeting in fellowship hall
Sun., Dec. 10, 2023—Second Sunday of Advent
9:30 a.m.   Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz; music by Chancel Bells;
Brief congregational meeting after worship
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation

Birthday calendars – with photos of BCMC by Weldon Schloneger – are available in the back of the sanctuary for a suggested donation of $10. Checks may be written to BCMC with Women’s Fellowship written in the memo line. These birthday calendars are perfect stocking stuffers and work well for keeping track of birthdays of family and friends.

The Deacons Commission is working on a “Thinking of You” campaign for people who are isolated due to 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

Caring Fund Contribution Opportunity Sunday December 3. The Caring Fund is an above budget benevolent fund administered by the Deacon Commission for the purpose of assisting our congregation’s members and community persons in need. The fund is generated by above budget offerings made payable to Bethel College Mennonite Church and designated “caring fund.” Everence also provides some matching funds each year. Besides the financial help that can and has been provided to our own members, in the past year contributions from the Caring Fund have been made to our local Salvation Army, New Hope Shelter, Safe Hope, Harvest of Love, the Community Playschool, Peace Connections Circle of Hope, Newton Community Foundation Slate Creek Elementary inclusive playground, USD 373 student meals for low income, and several individuals to help with housing rent and utilities. Thank you for your continued support and contributions during this holiday season.
– BCMC Deacon Commission

Anointing Service for Elizabeth Raid
You are welcome to join in an anointing service for Elizabeth Raid and her husband, Gary Franz, in the Bethel College Mennonite Church sanctuary on Wednesday, December 6 at 6 p.m. Elizabeth has been living with pancreatic cancer for a number of years and seeks God’s healing through word, touch, prayer, and the presence of loved ones. As God’s beloved community, may we find support and healing together. If there are others that are connected to Elizabeth and Gary who may not receive this announcement, please pass the invitation on to them. Everyone is welcome.

The church board is calling a brief special congregational meeting following worship in the sanctuary December 10, 2023 to act on the following board recommendation:
Does BCMC approve the initiation of a pledge drive for the purpose of soliciting funds and support for the solar project? The details of a pledge drive will be worked out if an initial vote indicates significant support.
The purpose of this vote is to determine the level of support from the congregation for a roof-top solar installation on our church. A review of the solar project as presented at the September congregational meeting and in two subsequent Sunday School hour meetings was distributed to mailboxes the week of November 27.

Welcoming Statement Draft
The Inclusion Task Group along with the Church Board has been working on an updated welcoming statement for BCMC that includes more open and affirming language. If you have questions or comments regarding the updated welcoming statement, please contact Nathan Koontz by December 8. We hope to vote on an updated statement at our congregational meeting on January 28, 2024. Below is the updated version.

Bethel College Mennonite Church is an open and affirming congregation centered in the life and teachings of Jesus. Embracing the divine within each person, we warmly welcome without regard to race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, economic status, marital status, and age, any and all who enter into fellowship with us.
—
Nathan Koontz (he, him)
Pastor for Community and Worship
Bethel College Mennonite Church

Creation Care: While you are active in your Christmas shopping please remember to save plastic bags for recycling. We have collected 345 pounds with a goal of 1,000 pounds. — Vern Goering

BCMC Offering for November 26, 2023: General Fund $3,150; Plant Fund $50; Sr Hi Youth $100; Gen Fund 2024 $1,300; Caring Fund $300; Flower Fund $110; Women’s Fellowship $286.

Roger’s Whereabouts
Roger, and his wife Cynthia, will be traveling to Newton on Friday night (12/1). Cynthia will play an Advent organ prelude for worship (12/3) beginning at 9:15. Roger will be staying in Newton until Thursday evening. Whether he’s in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone call (785-220-1968).

Save the date, January 28, 2024 for Congregational Meeting and Soup Luncheon prior to the congregational meeting and the next fun-filled congregation and youth activity!

You are invited to the Annual Christmas Brass Choir Concert at Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church, Sunday, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m., 1304 K-15 Hwy, Goessel for some Good Old Fashioned Christmas Festive Music and Cheer!

Mennonite Central Committee Material Resources Center in North Newton is critically low on inventory: An MCC kit cannot be distributed until each item for the kit is assembled, but some supplies in the Material Resources Center are so low that kits cannot be processed for shipping. You can help by filling the following needs: new infant onesies and sleepers (6-12 month sizes); new bath towels (dark colored, light to medium weight); new hand towels (dark colored). Locally, MCC distributes prisoner care and returning citizen care kits, for those kits we currently need: men’s shirts (sizes XL, 2XL, 3XL — any color) and men’s underwear (sizes 2XL, 3XL — any color). Buy online and ship it to MCC or bring items to MCC in North Newton (121 E. 30th St, North Newton). Questions: contact brociamueller@mcc.org or 316.283.2720. A full list of MCC kit contents can be found at mcc.org/kits.

Bethel College Announcements
· Weds., Dec. 6 – Singalong to Christmas portions of Handel’s Messiah, 11 a.m., with chamber orchestra and soloists, Bethel College Mennonite Church. Scores provided.
· Thurs., Dec. 7 – Visit Senior Art Exhibit 1, 5:30-7:30 p.m. in the Regier Art Gallery and the Drama Lab in the Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Artists will be present: “Crowded Table,” pottery by Edel Miller (gallery), and “Solace in the Story,” book art and theater art by Rachel Geyer (lab). Hours of Regier Gallery and Drama Lab are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
· Thurs., Dec. 7 – Gala Jazz, directed by Joel Boettger, 7:30 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center
· Sun., Dec. 10 – 38th annual Lighting of the Green , 8 p.m. on the Bethel College campus

Announcements from Hesston College

December 1 to 3 – Prairie Lights at Dyck Arboretum

Experience the quiet beauty of Kansas in winter: dormant native grasses shifting in the wind, lights reflecting in the pond and leafless trees lit from below like living sculptures. Observing tens of thousands of twinkle lights adorning the arboretum path and illuminating our grounds is a great way to kick off the holiday season and find renewed appreciation for the prairie landscape around us. Learn more at dyckarboretum.org/events.

December 2 – “A Christmas Carol” Performance

Hesston College Performing Arts will ring in the holiday season with a performance of “A Christmas Carol” on Saturday, December 2. The performance will be held in the Hesston Mennonite Church at 7 p.m. Admission is free and refreshments will be served after the performance with a special photo opportunity with Scrooge and Tiny Tim. You can watch the livestream of the production at hesston.edu/livestream.

For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here

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

For Anabaptist Disabilities Network press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Mennonite Church USA issued a statement on the Israel-Hamas War on Nov. 15. The statement laments the loss of life and stands on our shared Anabaptist faith values in a call for a ceasefire. Read it here: mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/ceasefire/

The Center for Community Justice in Elkhart, Indiana, honored Lorraine Stutzman Amstutz, Mennonite Church USA’s denominational minister for Peace & Justice, for her work in restorative justice at an event celebrating the 45th anniversary of its Victim-Offender Reconciliation Program (VORP). Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/ccj-honors

Menno Snapshots

This fall, several Mennonite Church USA congregations from Northwest Ohio worked with RAWtools and Mennonite Central Committee to host a community event about gun safety. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/gun-safety-ohio

Amy Yoder McGloughlin, pastor at Frazer Mennonite Church, shares how gun violence and the death of a young neighbor in a drive-by shooting created lasting trauma for her and her family. Read about how leaning into that pain helps her cope: mennoniteusa.org/lean-in

Harvey County Advent Calendar
A team of folks in Harvey County recently designed an Advent calendar themed around our community, and we are sharing it with others for free.

You can read about the effort in the Harvey County Now (“County Advent calendar hopes to spread more than information.”) Community Creative Services in Newton headed up the design.
The daily activities include reflective exercises to foster gratitude, encouragement to practice generosity, and opportunities to connect to others. It’s designed to be inclusive, so almost every activity is free, and each day includes at least one free activity. Examples include attending the Lighting of the Green at Bethel College, participating in the Audubon Society’s Christmas Bird Count, or watching the earliest sunset of the year. Other events invite reflection on the themes of hope, joy, love and peace; listening to Christmas hymns or poems; and making small donations to local charities. Rebecca Barrett-Fox, Newton, did the writing and area churches and organizations sponsored the publication.

Here is the announcement from the team who created the Advent calendar:
A group of community volunteers has created a local Advent calendar for area churches to enjoy. Each day, you’ll be invited to join in an activity that promotes kindness, gratitude, or connection to others. Pick up a copy at one of the sponsors listed on the calendar, or download to use digitally or print. You can find it here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GTOQxg28x34oLj7Ku-dz_s8-siSWQO42/view?fbclid=IwAR144qOdFMCKHHKdHxGZDXNCBw3hBir5XBZYdEC5dkWQaksl-BwxtUAGlAM

— Pastor Roger Neufeld Smith

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Pray for the participants in Mennonite Mission Network’s Tucson, Arizona, Mennonite Voluntary Service unit — Nely Cotuc, Hannah Nuest, Ally Weaver, Magdalena Wenger and Deborah Yoder — as they help extend the ministries of their host congregation, Shalom Mennonite Fellowship, through welcoming immigrants, promoting literacy and working to protect the environment.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for the WDC Resource Library’s creative resources and ideas for Advent and Christmas, and pray for congregational leaders who plan worship and special activities during this season.

Announcements for November 26–December 3, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR NOVEMBER 26, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
November 26, 2023
Thanksgiving Sunday

Prelude—Cello Suite No. 4 (J.S. Bach) and Bourrée (Transcribed by Alamiro Giampieri) and Justin Mathis, clarinet

Christ Candle Lighting

Welcome and Prayer—Margaret Toews

*Hymn—Sing to the Lord of Harvest—VT 122

Children’s Conversation—Jim Robb

Special Music—Romance from Five Bagatelles for Clarinet and Piano (by Gerald Finzi)
Justin Mathis, clarinet; Karen Schlabaugh, piano

Scripture Reading – Psalm 103:1-8,13-18; Philippians 1:1-7, 4:4-7 Richard Friesen and Dorothy Nickel Friesen

Sermon—Radical Gratitude—Roger Neufeld Smith

*Hymn—Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah—VT 606

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—God, Whose Giving—VT 745
People with November birthdays come forward for a blessing,
please bring a hymnal

Benediction

Postlude—Postlude on Beata nobis gaudia (Robert Powell)—Karen Schlabaugh

*You are invited to stand     VT—Voices Together     Audio visual— John Thiesen
Keyboard—Karen Schlabaugh

The Kobzar, a folk minstrel who was both an entertainer and sage, was an institution in the life of the Ukrainian people. This Dancing Kobzar sculpture, part of the John Klassen art exhibit now on display in the Gathering Place, is on loan from Cynthia Neufeld Smith.

We welcome clarinetist Justin Mathis to worship with us Sunday, November 26.
Instructor of clarinet at Colorado Christian University and principal clarinetist for Denver Pops Orchestra, Justin is married to Lyn and Naomi Krause’s daughter, Cheri.

Roger’s Whereabouts :  Roger will be driving back to Topeka this afternoon. He will be back in Newton next Sunday for worship (his wife Cynthia will be playing the organ prelude!). He will be in Newton until Thursday night, December 7. Whether he’s in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone call (785-220-1968).

Pastor Nathan Koontz is on vacation from Nov. 22-26.

Thank you to Susie Swartley and Kathy Stucky for the Thanksgiving
display on the steps of the Chancel Area.

BCMC Offering for November 19, 2023:  General Fund $6,685.33; Community Play School $250; Wed. Night Supper $282.50; Plant Fund $608.33; Gen Fund 2024 $10,025; Caring Fund $138.29; Flower Fund $150; Kitchen Fund $23.

This Week at BCMC: November 26—December 3, 2023
Sun., November 26, 2023—Thanksgiving Sunday
9:30 a.m. Worship   10:45 a.m. Faith Formation
Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/YKjS_6uoRqo?feature=share

The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation—Intergenerational class (Fellowship Hall);   High School (Room 24)    Adult Classes: Agape (nursery); Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21) Seekers (Rm 28)
Mon., November 27, 2023
10 a.m. Library Committee meeting in Room 14
Wed., November 29, 2023
6:30 p.m. Chancel Bell rehearsal in Room B7
7 p.m.        Abuse Prevention and Response Committee meeting in Room 14
7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal in the sanctuary
Thurs., November 30, 2023
7 p.m.         Deacon Commission meeting in Room 14
Sun., Dec. 3, 2023—First Sunday of Advent
9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz; music by Chancel Choir; communion will be served; 10:45 a.m. Faith Formation

The bcmcXpress is lagging a bit. As of Monday Nov. 20, we had 84 intents for a total dollar amount pledged of about $258,000. That’s a lot of money, but it is less than half of the proposed budget. The challenge is to get that total up. We know that many people have not pledged. Please consider your obligation and make a pledge. If you have already pledged consider raising the amount. BCMC has met these challenges in the past and we will again, but it means we all need to pull together. Finance Committee

For the online form press here.

If you plan to give via the electronic transfer system in 2024, please make a request via email to BCMC Financial Manager Michael Claassen – treasurer@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org
This is separate from the online giving option found on the website.

For the 2024 Budget Information for Bethel College Mennonite Church (the budget narrative) click the button. If you would like a paper copy of the 2024 Budget Narrative, you can pick one up from the ledge in the Gathering Place.

2024 Narrative Budget

A Celebration of Life for Gladys Niles and Gail Niles Stucky is scheduled for 4 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 26, at Shalom Mennonite Church, Newton. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor Gladys’ and Gail’s memories are encourage to make a gift to support Bethel College, Bethel College Mennonite Church, or Shalom Mennonite Church.

Kauffman Museum will celebrate Museum Store Sunday, November 26. Museum members will receive 20% off their entire Store purchase and non-members will receive 10% off. More than 2,100 Museum Stores representing all 50 states, 25 countries and 5 continents take part in this event. For more information about and to find participating stores, go to museumstoresunday.org/museum-store-sunday
Kauffman Museum’s normal business hours are Sunday 1:30-4:30 p.m.

Antiracism Analysis Training
You are invited to join a 2 1/2 day training covering topics such as Racial and cultural identity; White privilege; Institutions and institutional racism; Racism as a systemic reality, and more.
Training is January 12-14, 2024 at the Newton REC Center. There is a poster on the BCMC bulletin board. For the poster you can also click here.

The cost of the training is $300 prior to December 1 and $350 afterwards. If you are interested in receiving scholarship money to help reimburse registration costs, please contact the church office at office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org. The Witness Commission strongly encourages your participation and is happy to answer any questions you may have. Please contact the church office to be in contact with someone from the Witness Commission.

To register click here.

The church board is calling a brief special congregational meeting following worship in the sanctuary December 10, 2023 to act on the following board recommendation:
Does BCMC approve the initiation of a pledge drive for the purpose of soliciting funds and support for the solar project? The details of a pledge drive will be worked out if an initial vote indicates significant support.
The purpose of this vote is to determine the level of support from the congregation for a roof-top solar installation on our church. A review of the solar project as presented at the September congregational meeting and in two subsequent SS hour meetings will be distributed to mailboxes the week of November 27.

For a review of information on the solar panels press here

For your calendars

December 24, 2023 — there will be no Sunday School — Worship will start at 10 a.m.
December 31, 2023 — there will be no Sunday School — Worship will start at 10 a.m.
Save the date, January 28, 2024 for Congregational Meeting and Soup Luncheon prior to the congregational meeting and the next fun-filled congregation and youth activity!

Bethel College Announcements
· Fri., Dec. 1 – Senior Art Exhibit I opens in the Regier Art Gallery and the Drama Lab, both in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College, featuring the work of Rachel Geyer (lab) and Edel Miller (gallery). Hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
· Friday, Dec. 1 — Student-directed one-act plays, 7:30 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Please note: May contain adult language and themes and may not be suitable for children.
· Sat., Dec. 2 – Kauffman Museum bird walk, 8 a.m. start time in the museum parking lot at the corner of Main and 27th streets (2801 N. Main St., North Newton 67117). Experienced birders lead a walk of 1-1.5 hours in Chisholm Park and on Sand Creek Trail (terrain is mostly wood-chip path and sometimes uneven/sloping).
· Sat., Dec. 2 – Five Places of Christmas, featuring Kauffman Museum and the Bethel College Women’s Association at Goerz House, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Other locations are Carriage Factory Gallery, Harvey County Historical Museum and Warkentin House, all in Newton.
· All bakers and craft makers are invited to make items for 5 Places of Christmas Sat., December 2, at Goerz House, Bethel College. Bethel College Women’s Association will again be selling baked goods, candy, craft items and poinsettias. Your home-baked cookies, zwiebach, cinnamon rolls, peppernuts and poppyseed rolls are always great sellers. This year we are especially asking for homemade candies such as peanut clusters, peanut butter balls, peanut brittle or fudge. Please bring your items to Goerz House on Friday, December 1, from 1-4 p.m. or on Saturday from 9-10 a.m.
· Weds., Dec. 6 – Singalong to Christmas portions of Handel’s Messiah, 11 a.m., with chamber orchestra and soloists, At Bethel College Mennonite Church. Scores will be provided.
· Thurs., Dec. 7 – Gala Jazz, directed by Joel Boettger, 7:30 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center
· Sun., Dec. 10 – 37th annual Lighting of the Green , 8 p.m. on the Bethel
College campus

Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Announcements
· An Evening of Service at MCC on Giving Tuesday, Nov. 28 from 6:30-8 p.m. at MCC in North Newton. Bring new dark colored hand towels to pack hygiene kits. MCC partner Offender Victim Ministries will be here with supplies to write holiday greetings to prisoners, we’ll have comforters to tie and delicious snacks to enjoy. A great way to give on Giving Tuesday.
· SAVE THE DATE – The MCC Comforter Blitz will be March 4-6 in Yoder.
· Mennonite Central Committee responding to the Palestine and Israel conflict – As conflict has escalated in the region, MCC laments the violence and mourns all lives lost in Palestine and Israel. MCC remains committed to a just peace for all, and we invite you to join us in praying for an end to the violence. MCC is planning an emergency response to the current crisis with existing partners. Our response will focus on the humanitarian needs in Gaza, given the vulnerability of the population and lack of resources available to families. MCC’s work will build on previous responses to the ongoing conflict, including the distribution of food and bedding. We are also planning to offer trauma healing support and housing reconstruction. Donate online at mcc.org/Palestine-Israel or call 1-888-563-4676.
· MCC Material Resources Center in North Newton critically low on inventory: An MCC kit cannot be distributed until each item for the kit is assembled, but some supplies in the Material Resources Center are so low that kits cannot be processed for shipping. You can help by filling the following needs: new infant onesies and sleepers (6-12 month sizes); new bath towels (dark colored, light to medium weight); new hand towels (dark colored). Locally, MCC distributes prisoner care and returning citizen care kits, for those kits we currently need: men’s shirts (sizes XL, 2XL, 3XL — any color) and men’s underwear (sizes 2XL, 3XL — any color). Buy online and ship it to MCC or bring items to MCC in North Newton (121 E. 30th St, North Newton). Questions are always welcome, please contact brociamueller@mcc.orgor 316.283.2720. A full list of MCC kit contents can be found at mcc.org/kits.

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

Peace Connections is 40 years old! You are invited to an Open House Celebrating Peace Connections 40 years on November 30, 6 to 8 p.m. at 209 S. Pine Street, Newton. Share S’mores and Hot Chocolate while hearing stories of Peace Connections’ past impact, current programs, and their future story.

M&M Project Update: End of Year GIving!

Please consider giving to Camp Mennoscah and/or the M&M Project on Giving Tuesday – this year on November 28 – or as part of your end-of-the-year giving. It’s not that we aren’t thankful for all you’ve done – but there is a lot to be done at Camp, and we already know that God has touched your hearts and called many to be part of Camp’s mission. Let’s not just finish the M&M Project strong – let’s finish the year strong!

Thank you for being a part of Camp Mennoscah! 75 years – There is still so much ahead!

Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp Announcements· Scrapbook Retreat, Jan. 26-28 is your opportunity to create paper or digital photo books and share ideas and good conversation with other scrapbook participants. Lisa Longacher will return as our program resource for the retreat and help facilitate a variety of activities. Please come for retreat and community in God’s creation here at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp. Register online (www.rmmc.org) and save a space to join in.
· Join us for Men’s Retreat March 1-3, 2024 to spend time with God and fellow men in the beauty of creation with worship times, foosball, ping pong, chess, human curling, snowshoeing, musical jam sessions, great fellowship and more! The Friday before Men’s Retreat, participants have a tradition of tackling necessary projects at camp. This day of volunteering helps RMMC better serve campers and guests. Register @ rmmc.org.
· Mark your calendars now for Women’s Retreat at RMMC, March 8-10, 2024. Come to the mountains for a weekend away. Retreat, hike, explore, rest, and fellowship. This weekend is for women ages 18 and older to come together. Theme to be announced! Visit rmmc.org to register.

For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
For Mennonite World Conference “Info” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News from around the world” press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Menno Snapshots

As part of Mennonite Church USA’s latest Learn, Pray, Join initiative, End Gun Violence, Jonny Rashid, pastor for West Philadelphia Mennonite Fellowship, a member church of Allegheny Mennonite Conference, shared a prayer of lament about gun violence. Read it here: mennoniteusa.org/prayer-to-end-gun-violence

Anabaptist musicians from a variety of countries met this spring in Canada for a songwriting retreat sponsored by Anabaptist Worship Network. George Makinto, director of worship at Los Angeles (California) Faith Chapel, recounts how he experienced hope through the gathering of such a diverse group of people worshipping God together. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/hope-ringing-out

Michael George, a Palestinian-American and facilitator of MennoPIN’s “Twinning with Gaza” Initiative, a Mennonite Church USA affinity group, laments the recent attacks from Hamas and ongoing war in Israel/Palestine. Read it here: mennoniteusa.org/lament-for-gaza

Rachel Ringenberg Miller, denominational minister for ministerial leadership for Mennonite Church USA, reminds us that Anabaptist congregational leadership requires collaboration, from the leaders and from the congregation. The process to make changes takes time, but the inclusive nature of the process is worth it. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/collaboration-anabaptist-leadershipMennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Jonah and Memee Yang began serving with Mennonite Mission Network in September. Pray for Jonah as he teaches Hmong and Thai students in Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary’s Journey Program and for Memee as she offers Sister Care seminars. The Yangs live in Minnesota and will travel to Thailand twice each year.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for chaplains and other ministers in WDC who offer pastoral care for members of our communities experiencing pain, loneliness, loss or grief, particularly during this holiday season.

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Jonah and Memee Yang began serving with Mennonite Mission Network in September. Pray for Jonah as he teaches Hmong and Thai students in Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary’s Journey Program and for Memee as she offers Sister Care seminars. The Yangs live in Minnesota and will travel to Thailand twice each year.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for chaplains and other ministers in WDC who offer pastoral care for members of our communities experiencing pain, loneliness, loss or grief, particularly during this holiday season.