Category Archives: Announcements

Announcements and Worship Service for December 24, 2023

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

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/mmGsiTK1Djs?feature=share

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.

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!

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

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 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

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

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 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

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/Wi3ZHcRxKYA?feature=share

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.

Announcements for November 19-26, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
November 19, 2023
Twenty Fifth Sunday After Pentecost

Prelude—Little Prelude and Fugue in C (JS Bach); Now Thank We All Our God (Bach/Fox)—
Will Wiebe-Friesen

Christ Candle Lighting

Welcome and Prayer—Elizabeth Schmidt

*Hymn—Guide My Feet—VT 816

Children’s Conversation—Jeanette Leary

Anthem—A Song of Thanksgiving (John Ferguson)—Chancel Choir; Riley King, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist

Scripture Reading—Psalm 105:4-13; Luke 3:4-9; Deut. 26:1-5—Emma Gering

Sermon—Fugitives in the Family Tree—Lauren Friesen

*Hymn—Lift Every Voice and Sing—VT 611

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Praise to the Living God—VT 204

Benediction

Postlude—Precious Lord Take My Hand (arr. Schrader)—Will Wiebe-Friesen

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

Welcome to Lauren Friesen
We welcome Lauren to deliver the sermon at BCMC today. Lauren and his partner Janet joined BCMC last May. Previously they had been active at Chicago Community Mennonite Church where Lauren often preached. Prior to their time in Chicago, Lauren was a professor at the University of Michigan. We are glad that he and Janet have wandered their way into this community!

The church board is calling a special brief congregational meeting following worship in the sanctuary Sunday, Nov. 19, to act on the following board recommendation:
“That Bethel College Mennonite Church join the Repair Network, a binational network of congregations engaged in efforts to repair damages done to indigenous groups over the last centuries. Joining the network entails, among other things, a commitment of funds within the witness commission budget to support the ongoing efforts of the organization. This commitment would involve a commitment of $3,000 in the 2024 church budget, with the expectation that in 2025 the amount would be $4,000 and 2026 and years following $5,000, approximately 1% of the BCMC budget. It is understood that actions on budget beyond 2024 would follow normal budget development and action processes.”

This Week at BCMC: November 19—26, 2023
Sun., November 19, 2023
9:30 a.m. Worship; 10:45 a.m. Faith Formation
Brief Congregational Meeting will follow worship in the sanctuary
Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/YBJ3Ob2qAAU?feature=share

The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 a.m. 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)
Tues., November 21, 2023
3 p.m.      Worship Commission meeting by Zoom
7 p.m.      Women’s Fellowship meeting in Fellowship Hall
Wed., November 22, 2023—No Chancel Choir rehearsal tonight
Thurs., November 23, 2023—Thanksgiving Day—Church office closed; building locked for the holiday
Fri., November 24, 2023—Church office will be closed today
Sun., November 26, 2023—Thanksgiving Sunday
9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Roger Neufeld Smith; music by Justin Mathis, clarinet; November birthday recognition

BCMC Women’s Fellowship meets Tuesday, November 21, in Fellowship Hall at 7:00 p.m. We will discuss mental health and teen motherhood. Use the south-east door.

BCMC Offering for November 12, 2023: General Fund $11,542; MCC $25; Wed. supper $428; Library Reserve Fund $10; Flower Fund $20; Bethel College Scholarship Fund $500; Kitchen Fund $18.25.

The BCMC Board continues to discuss the solar project and hopes to have more details about next steps sometime in December. Thank you for your patience! Margaret Toews and Jon Zerger for the board

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!

We offer sympathy to the family of Gladys Niles and Gail Stucky. Gladys died November 5 at Kidron Bethel Village. Gladys’ daughter, Gail, died Nov. 15, at Paramount Community Living in Newton. A celebration of life is scheduled for both Gladys and Gail at 4 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 26, at Shalom Mennonite Church, Newton. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor Gail’s and Gladys’ memories are encouraged to make a gift to support Bethel College, Bethel College Mennonite Church, or Shalom Mennonite Church.
For Gladys’ obituary press here
For Gail’s obituary press here

Roger’s Whereabouts : Roger will be back in the BCMC office Monday morning (11/20) until Wednesday (11/22). He will return to Topeka for a Smith Thanksgiving celebration, then be back in Newton on Saturday (11/25) to preach on Sunday (11/26). 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 will be on vacation from Nov. 22-26.

bcmcXpress: If you have not done so already, please fill out your intent for giving to BCMC for the 2024 budget. This is very helpful in setting the budget for the coming year. Your generous contributions for 2023 are greatly appreciated. The Finance Committee
For the online form press here.

2024 Narrative Budget

You are invited to share a poinsettia for the sanctuary for the Christmas season. BCMC will purchase the poinsettias, and have them delivered to the church. To contribute, email the following to the office or fill it out and put it in the offering plate:
Donor’s: name:
In memory of:
Or in honor of.:
Make a payment of $10.00 (made out to BCMC and designated “Flower Fund”) place in the offering plate or bring to church office by Nov. 21. There will be forms at a table in the back of the sanctuary this Sunday if you wish to fill out a form in person.

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.

To register click here. Note that there is early bird registration by December 1, 2023.

Bethel College Announcements
· (Sun., Nov. 19) – Joint junior recital by Emil Benavides and Dylan Yoder, voice, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel at Bethel College
· Mon., Nov. 20 – Bethel College Wind Ensemble, directed by Chris Miertschin, 7 p.m., featuring the music of Satie, Smith, Bernstein and more; Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center or livestreamed at https://www.youtube.com/live/JTnHaK6jSkk?si=1FOZS2LEeGbC3ZAe
· 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.

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. 30^th St, North Newton, KS 67117). Questions are always welcome, please contact brociamueller@mcc.org or 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.

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

The application for 2024 Summer Staff at Camp Mennoscah is open! 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 June 2 with orientation for summer-long positions and ends August 4. We can’t wait to hear from you!

Other events and happenings:

Volunteers are needed immediately to work (M-F) alongside the facilities director on general maintenance tasks. Working on these regular maintenance tasks will allow more time for planning and preparation for the Retreat Center HVAC project. The project is running behind and we need to make up time! Call or text Jordan at 316-613-1848. Volunteer hours are available from 8am-5pm or a portion of that time. Please bring a water bottle and your lunch.
Thank you to everyone who stopped by the Camp Mennoscah booth during the Camp Days at Hesston, Tabor and Bethel! There was great conversation with students interested in being on summer staff for the 2024 Summer Youth Camps. What a great time to speak with you!

Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp Announcements

Men’s Retreat: Join us for Men’s Retreat March 1-3, 2024 to spend time with God and fellow men in the beauty of creation. The festivities for the weekend include worship times, foosball, ping pong, chess, human curling, snowshoeing, musical jam sessions, great fellowship and more! On the Friday prior to 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.

Women! 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, fellowship, laugh, cry, and so much more. This weekend is geared towards women ages 18 and older to come together for laughter, fun, and great fellowship. Theme to be announced! Please visit rmmc.org to register.

Historian to present ‘Mennonites on the Silk Road’ at Newton Public Library
Historian and pastor John Sharp will return to Newton Public Library for a follow-up talk focusing on the Mennonite experience in Central Asia, Tuesday, Nov. 21, at 7 p.m.
Sharp’s presentation will begin with excerpts from Sofia Samatar’s highly-acclaimed “The White Mosque,” which was the focus of a community book discussion that Sharp led at the library earlier this fall.
Shortly after leading that discussion, Sharp accompanied a group of travelers on an educational tour in Uzbekistan, revisiting the regions discussed in the book.
“Uzbeks cherish their history but also plan for the future, as was abundantly clear on our September tour,” Sharp said. “Uzbekistan is promoting tourism with its new and upgraded hotels and restaurants. With photos and commentary, I will highlight the ways this is changing the sites related to the Mennonite story.”
This is a hybrid program. Participants can attend in person, join online via Zoom webinars, or head to the Newton Public Library Facebook page at the time of the event for a livestream.
Click here to mark yourself “Going” and share the event on Facebook.

For Mennonite Mission Network “Giving Tuesday” press here

For Mennonite Men “Fall Update” press here

For Mennonite Disaster Service “On the Level” press here

For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Menno Snapshots

During the Korean War, Sue Park-Hur’s Aunt Hwasil was separated from her mother and brothers. After 40 years, she was finally able to reunite with her family, a privilege that many other Korean families have not been able to enjoy. Park-Hur is Mennonite Church USA’s director of racial/ethnic engagement. Read her blog here: mennoniteusa.org/korean-family-reunion

After researching the experiences of women in ministry, Amy Zimbelman, conference minister of Mountain States Mennonite Conference, explains that the best gift many congregations can give to their pastor is support through a Pastor-Congregation Relations Committee (PCRC). Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/thank-your-pastor-pcrc

Sarah Werner, author of “Rooted Faith: Practices for Living Well on a Fragile Planet,” and communications coordinator for Central District Conference, a Mennonite Church USA conference, gives hope and tangible ideas for how to Christians can live a life that is faithful to their beliefs amid rapid climate change. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/living-faithfully-changing-planet

Subscribe to PeaceMail and receive all the news and blogs from Mennonite Church USA in one weekly email: mennoniteusa.org/peacemail View the PDF here: mennoniteusa.org/peacemail-PDF

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Tomorrow, Barb Thuma will complete a seven-week Mennonite Mission Network assignment at La Casa Grande, a children’s home in Benin. Pray that the love she shared with the children, through teaching English and working with them on the agricultural program, will bear fruit in the lives of each person she learned to know.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for changing seasons, and pray that WDC congregations may discern God’s presence and guidance in the midst of the opportunities and challenges that they face.

Announcements for November 12-19, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
FOR NOVEMBER 12, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
November 12, 2023
Twenty Fourth Sunday After Pentecost

Prelude—Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing (Miller); O God, Beyond All Praising (Callahan)–Karen Unruh

Christ Candle Lighting

Welcome and Prayer—Mary Ellen Hodge

*Hymn—Come Away from Rush and Hurry—VT 9

Children’s Conversation—Esther Koontz

Anthem—God Loves Me Dearly (Behnke)—Chancel Bells; Verlene Garber, director; Lucy Burch, flute

Scripture Reading—Amos 5:18-24—Ani Koontz

*Hymn—Darkness Is Not Dark to You, God—VT 200

Scripture Reading—Wisdom of Solomon 6:12-16

Sermon—Righteousness, Justice, and Wisdom—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—O Holy Spirit, Root of Life—VT 376

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn Take My Life, and Let It Be—VT 759

Benediction

Postlude—Toccata in Seven (Rutter)—Karen Unruh

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Audio visual—Francis Toews

This Week at BCMC: November 12—19, 2023
Sun., November 12, 2023
9:30 a.m.   Worship
Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/s6tSF2xQjNE?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)
Tues., November 14, 2023
12 noon   Mid-Kansas Investment Club meeting in Fellowship Hall
1:30 p.m. Women’s Fellowship Executive Board meeting in Fellowship Hall
Wed., November 15, 2023—Wednesday Night Supper
5:30 p.m.   Wednesday night supper in Fellowship Hall—
Menu: Potato soup, fruit, bread, pumpkin cheesecake snickerdoodle cookies
6:30 p.m.   Wednesday Night Club
7:30 p.m.   Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the Sanctuary Chancel area
Thurs., November 16, 2023
7 p.m.         Bethel College Women’s Association meeting in Fellowship Hall
Sun., November 19, 2023
9:30 a.m.    Worship with sermon by Lauren Friesen; music by the Chancel Choir; 10:45 a.m. Faith Formation

Roger’s Whereabouts :  Roger will be back in the church office on Monday morning, November 20, remaining in Newton until Thanksgiving Eve, November 22. 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 Women’s Fellowship Executive Board meets Tuesday, November 14 at 1:30 in Fellowship Hall.

The BCMC Board continues to discuss the solar project and hopes to have more details about next steps sometime in December. Thank you for your patience! Margaret Toews and Jon Zerger for the board

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!

BCMC Offering for November 5, 2023: General Fund $7,899.33; Wed. Supper $311; MCC Meat Canning $25; Plant Fund $250; Gen Fund 2024 $1,826.59; Library Reserve Fund $35; Kitchen Fund $21.

The bcmcXpress is coming
You will be receiving a letter or an email shortly from the finance committee requesting your intent for giving to BCMC for the 2024 budget. Please give this careful and immediate consideration. This is very helpful in setting the budget for the coming year. Your generous contributions for 2023 are greatly appreciated.
The Finance Committee

It’s Supper Time at BCMC! Nov. 15, 5:30 p.m., in Fellowship Hall. Cost is $6/person or $18/family per meal. To facilitate the clean-up, please bring your own table service. Menu for Nov. 15 is Potato soup with toppings, (bacon, broccoli, cheese, green onion); fruit, bread, pumpkin cheesecake snickerdoodle cookies For this supper please bring a soup bowl also.

Welcome to Lauren Friesen
We welcome Lauren to deliver the sermon at BCMC on November 19. Lauren and his partner Janet joined BCMC last May. Previously they had been active at Chicago Community Mennonite Church where Lauren often preached. Prior to their time in Chicago, Lauren was a professor at the University of Michigan. We are glad that he and Janet have wandered their way into this community!

The church board is calling a special brief congregational meeting following worship in the sanctuary November 19, 2023 to act on the following board recommendation:
“That Bethel College Mennonite Church join the Repair Network, a binational network of congregations engaged in efforts to repair damages done to indigenous groups over the last centuries. Joining the network entails, among other things, a commitment of funds within the witness commission budget to support the ongoing efforts of the organization. This commitment would involve a commitment of $3,000 in the 2024 church budget, with the expectation that in 2025 the amount would be $4,000 and 2026 and years following $5,000, approximately 1% of the BCMC budget. It is understood that actions on budget beyond 2024 would follow normal budget development and action processes.”

Thanksgiving Day Pot Luck meal – If anyone is interested in a Thanksgiving day pot luck meal, please contact Naomi Krause, naomikrause@gmail.com or call/text 925-808-5620. You would be invited to bring your special dish. Two or more persons could volunteer to cook the turkey/ham. If coming, please RSVP. It’s fun to join together!

Poinsettias for Christmas

You are invited to share a poinsettia for the sanctuary for the Christmas season. BCMC will purchase the poinsettias, and have them delivered to the church. To contribute, email the following to the office or fill it out and put it in the offering plate:
Donor’s: name:
In memory of:
Or in honor of.:
Make a payment of $10.00 (made out to BCMC and designated “Flower Fund”) place in the offering plate or bring to church office by Nov. 21. There will be forms at a table in the back of the sanctuary this Sunday, if you wish to fill out a form in person.

BCMC welcomed nine new members on Sunday, November 5. Welcome to Karen Bertrand, Jane Goering, Vern Goering, Carol Ingenthron, Lyn Krause, Naomi Krause, Lonny Regier, Mary Regier, Sandy Rohe

To access their faith statements click here.

Antiracism Analysis Training
Your 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.

To register click here. Note that there is early bird registration by December 1, 2023.

Bethel College Announcements
· (Sun., Nov. 12) – KIPCOR Film Series presents Eroding History, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. The film follows the story of two Black communities on Deal Island, on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, as they face climate disaster and a history of environmental racism. Audience talkback with Dr. Jonathan Frye, professor of natural science at McPherson College, follows the screening; a freewill offering will be taken to support KIPCOR and the film series.
· (Sun., Nov. 12) – Senior recital by Bethel College student Halle Krehbiel, flute, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel
· Tues., Nov. 14 – Bethel College Organ Recital Series presents Donna Hetrick, organ, with Alan Wenger, trumpet, 7 p.m., featuring works by Martini, Clarke, Hovhaness, Schroeder, Persichetti and Eben; Administration Building chapel
· Thurs., Nov. 16 – Artist reception for Eden Quispe and “Motherhood,” 6-8 p.m., Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Exhibit closes Fri., Nov. 17. Gallery hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays.
· Sat., Nov. 18 – Senior recital by Bethel College student Hayden Honomichl, voice, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel
· Sun., Nov. 19 – Joint junior recital by Bethel College students Emil Benavides and Dylan Yoder, voice, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel
· Mon., Nov. 20 – Bethel College Wind Ensemble, directed by Chris Miertschin, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center

Life Enrichment at Krehbiel Auditorium, Bethel College—November 15
9:30 a.m. “Planting One Million Trees in Ten Years” Steve Thomas, U.S. coordinator for Mennonite Men, Goshen, IN
10:35 a.m “The Story of The Kansas African American Museum,” Denise Sherman, executive director, Wichita
11:30 a.m. Bethel College choirs in performance: Concert Choir, Chamber Singers, Open Road, and Woven, Henry S. Waters, D.M.A., director of choral music and associate professor of music

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.

Everence will hold its popular Medicare workshop at its office in North Newton on Thursday, Nov. 16 at 6:30 p.m. Topics will include, when and where to sign up for Medicare, what Medicare covers, plus an explanation of Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D. Attendance is recommended for those approaching retirement or those ready to sign up for Medicare.
The in-person workshop will be held at the Everence office: 3179 N. Main St. Suite 1B, North Newton. Those interested in attending should contact the Everence office at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com.

Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp Announcements

Young Adult Snow Camp (Feb. 16-18) Young Adult Snow Camp continues to join the Sr. High Snow Camp week of activities and fellowship with participants serving as program assistants AND participants at just the right young adult price . . . free!

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.

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

M&M Project Update: WE DID IT!!

We did it, friends! Working together, we have raised more than $100,000 for the Mission and Maintenance Project at Camp Mennoscah! Thank you all who have supported this effort with your prayers and your gifts! We’ve been able to match the generous gift that started this challenge back in the Spring!

So, what’s next? That’s a good question! One thing is for sure: We don’t want to stop the ball now that it is rolling! Camp is still in need of money for maintenance. We need to make sure we have the facilities working well so we can continue to be a place where people of all ages come to renew themselves, their relationships, and their connection with God. We still need maintenance to do the mission.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 heart and called you to be part of Camp’s mission. Let’s not just finish the M&M Project strong – let’s finish the year strong!And who knows? Maybe – just maybe – someone may step up to match what we’ve contributed over and above our goal. Maybe that someone is someone you know. Maybe that someone is you! Thank you for being a part of Camp Mennoscah! 75 years – There is still so much ahead!You can contact Tammy at the addresses below. Checks can be made to Camp with “M&M” in the memo line, or you can give your gifts online.
Tammy Duvanel Unruh
Development Director, Camp Mennoscah
tammy.d.unruh@campmennoscah.org
316-207-3472
or
Camp Mennoscah
PO Box 65 Murdock, KS 67111
620-297-3290

For Mennonite World Conference “Courier” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
For Anabaptist Disabilities Network “Opening Doors” Blog press here
For Mennonite Central Committee “In Touch” press here

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.
· If you are heading to South Texas any time soon, MCC Central States in North Newton is looking for your help to transport 25 boxes of kits to a partner in McAllen, TX. Contact Kate Mast at  katemast@mcc.org
   with any questions or interest.
· MCC Comforter update – thank you to all the hardworking MCC comforter makers who make beautiful, high-quality gifts to share with our partners around the world. The MCC guidelines for comforters were recently updated after receiving feedback from those partners around the world. For complete MCC comforter information, including the updated guidelines, go to the Comforters page of our website (mcc.org/get-involved/kits/comforters). Contact Workroom Supervisor, Kate Mast (katemast@mcc.org), with any comforter questions.
· 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.

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Shelley Buller, executive assistant to the Mennonite Church USA Executive Board, has announced her plans to retire at the end of 2023, after 46 years of dedicated service to the denomination. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/shelley-buller-retire

Menno Snapshots

Open enrollment for 2024 for The Corinthian Plan begins Nov. 1, 2023. The Corinthian Plan is a self-funded, healthcare plan for Mennonite Church USA pastors and church workers. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/tcp

Community Mennonite Church of Lancaster (Pennsylvania)worked with a local artist to create a public mural that represents their community’s history and diversity. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/beauty-of-earth

Joel Shenk, pastor of Toledo (Ohio) Mennonite Church, describes how he learned blacksmithing as part of his personal peace witness and how his conference and congregation have joined him in this work. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/peace-witness-anvil

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Matthew and Toni Krabill, as they prepare to move from the Paris Mennonite Center (France) to The Sanneh Institute in Accra, Ghana, to continue their work and ministry. Pray for them as they collaborate with partners in the Francophone Mennonite Network, who are launching a French-language theological training program.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC congregations in pastoral transition, and for those who are considering a call to ministry, that they would be open to the leading of the Holy Spirit in times of change.

Announcements for November 5-12, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH WORSHIP AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR NOVEMBER 5, 2023

Daylight Savings Time Ends Sunday, November 5. Turn your clocks BACK one hour (unless you’d like to be extra early for church Sunday morning!)

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
November 5, 2023
Twenty Third Sunday After Pentecost

Prelude— A Mighty Fortress is Our God (arr. Jason Payne)—Will Wiebe-Friesen

Christ Candle Lighting

Land Acknowledgement—Raylene Hinz-Penner

Call to Worship and Prayer—Heather Zerger

*Hymn—Open Lord, My Inward Ear—VT 548

Children’s Conversation—Adah and Tim Hodge

Anthem— God Be in My Head (John Rutter)—Chancel Choir; Riley King, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist

Scripture Reading—Micah 3:5-12; Matthew 23:1-12—Juliana Schrag

Sermon— Close to the Ground—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—I Bind My Heart This Tide—VT 556

Welcoming New Members—VT 961

*Hymn—Will You Let Me Be Your Servant—VT 778—All sing verses 1,6; Chancel Choir verses 2,4; Congregation verses 3,5

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—My Life Flows On—VT 605

*Benediction—Elizabeth Schmidt

Postlude—Sonata No. 6 “Vater unser” – Allegro molto—(Mendelssohn)— Will Wiebe-Friesen

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together

Keyboard- Will Wiebe-Friesen
Audio visual— Ken Lamp

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: November 5—12, 2023
Sun., November 5, 2023
9:30 a.m.      Worship
10:45 a.m.    Faith Formation
4 p.m.           “Bethel Sings” in the Sanctuary
Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/E_oPXXnBDnM?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)

Mon., November 6, 2023
7 p.m.         Facilities Committee meeting in Fellowship Hall
Tues., November 7, 2023
7 p.m.         Finance Committee meeting in Room 14
Wed., November 8, 2023—Wednesday Night Supper
5:30 p.m.   Wednesday night supper in Fellowship Hall—
Menu is: Sloppy Joes, Corn, Pickles, Chips, Butterscotch bars
6:30 p.m.   Wednesday Night Programming: “Climate Change: What We Can Do and How Much Difference It Can Make” with the BCMC Creation Care Committee
6:30 p.m.   Wednesday Night Club
7:30 p.m.   Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the Sanctuary Chancel area
Sun., November 12, 2023
9:30 a.m.   Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz; Kin-dom report by the Finance Committee on the bcmcXpress; music by the Chancel Choir

It’s Supper Time at BCMC! Nov. 8, 5:30 p.m., in Fellowship Hall. Cost is $6/person or $18/family per meal. To facilitate the clean-up, please bring your own table service. Menu for Nov. 8 is Sloppy Joes, Corn, Pickles, Chips, Butterscotch Bars

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!

Roger’s Whereabouts : Roger will be driving back to Topeka this afternoon. He will be back in the church office on Monday morning, November 20, remaining in Newton until Thanksgiving Eve, November 22. 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 Members Address Changes
· Jim Banman —3054 Ivy Court, 43S, North Newton, KS 67117
· Marion Deckert — 3056 Ivy Court, Apt. 12, North Newton, KS 67117
· Monica Gross — 3056 Ivy Court, Apt. 6, North Newton, KS 67117
· Gladys Niles — 3054 Ivy Court, 26S, North Newton, KS 67117
Following a recent hospitalization, Gladys Niles is receiving care in HealthCare at Kidron Bethel Village. She has initiated hospice services and welcomes brief visits. Please remember Gladys in your prayers.

BCMC Offering for October 29, 2023: General Fund $9,807; Wed. supper $356; MCC Meat Canning $1,125; Plant Fund $100; Caring Fund $50; Kitchen Fund $16; Women’s Fellowship $50; Patty Shelly Memorial $500.

We would like to express our thanks for everyone that was a part of Patty’s memorial service. Our gratitude goes out to Shirley King for the wonderful organ music, and to William Eash and the choir for the meaningful choral meditations. Thank you to all the readers of the scripture verses and poetry, and to Pastors Nathan and Elizabeth for their meditation and prayers at the service and their guidance and support during Patty’s illness and following her death. We are grateful for the work of the funeral committee and volunteers in serving the faspa meal and providing an opportunity for family and friends to fellowship together and share some memories about Patty. Caring messages sent through cards and conversations have also lifted us up during this time of grief. We are so thankful for all this, and feel blessed to be a part of such a supportive and caring church community.
-June Shelly, and the families of Andy Shelly and Doris Shelly Whillock

The church board is calling a special brief congregational meeting following worship in the sanctuary November 19, 2023 to act on the following board recommendation:
“That Bethel College Mennonite Church join the Repair Network, a binational network of congregations engaged in efforts to repair damages done to indigenous groups over the last centuries. Joining the network entails, among other things, a commitment of funds within the witness commission budget to support the ongoing efforts of the organization. This commitment would involve a commitment of $3,000 in the 2024 church budget, with the expectation that in 2025 the amount would be $4,000 and 2026 and years following $5,000, approximately 1% of the BCMC budget. It is understood that actions on budget beyond 2024 would follow normal budget development and action processes.”

Gaza Update: Mennonite Palestine Israel Network (MennoPIN) will host a Zoom conversation Saturday, 11/11, 9-10 a.m. with Tareq Abuhalima. Email wdc@mennowdc.org to get the Zoom link. Tareq grew up in Gaza City and is the current graduate assistant at Bluffton University’s The Lion and Lamb Peace Arts Center. Before beginning his graduate education at Bluffton University in January 2023, Tareq previously worked at Youth Vision Society in Gaza City as a project manager and served as MennoPIN’s “Twinning with Gaza” Initiative Coordinator. He recently presented a seminar at the Mennonite Church USA Convention in Kansas City and at our WDC Annual Assembly. He will share about his experience of growing up in Gaza and give an update on the disastrous human toll of the current war. Tareq recently learned that his sister was killed in the violence. He asked that this event not be postponed.

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.
· If you are heading to South Texas any time soon, MCC Central States in North Newton is looking for your help to transport 25 boxes of kits to a partner in McAllen, TX. Contact Kate Mast at  katemast@mcc.org
   with any questions or interest.
· MCC Comforter update – thank you to all the hardworking MCC comforter makers who make beautiful, high-quality gifts to share with our partners around the world. The MCC guidelines for comforters were recently updated after receiving feedback from those partners around the world. For complete MCC comforter information, including the updated guidelines, go to the Comforters page of our website (mcc.org/get-involved/kits/comforters). Contact Workroom Supervisor, Kate Mast (katemast@mcc.org), with any comforter questions.
· 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.

Bethel College Announcements
· (Sun., Nov. 5) – Bethel Sings, a concert featuring all Bethel College vocal groups, Dr. Henry S. Waters, director, 4 p.m., Bethel College Mennonite Church (2600 College Ave., North Newton)
· Mon., Nov. 6 – Julia Spicher Kasdorf: “Thinking of Certain Mennonite Women: Reading from her poems and those of others, with discussion,” 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel at Bethel College. Sponsored by the Bethel College Women’s Association Carolyn Schultz Lecture Endowment, Bethel’s English department and convocation. Kasdorf will speak in convocation Mon., Nov. 6, 11 a.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center, on “Documentary Poetry,” and lead a reading and open mic at 1887 Café in Schultz Student Center, Tues., Nov. 7, at 7:30 p.m.
· Sat., Nov. 11 – Junior recital by Bethel College student Josué Coy Dick, violin, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel
· Sun., Nov. 12 – 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.
· Sun., Nov. 12 – Senior recital by Bethel College student Halle Krehbiel, flute, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel
· Tues., Nov. 14 – Bethel College Organ Recital Series presents Donna Hetrick, organ, with Alan Wenger, trumpet, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel
· Sat., Nov. 18 – Senior recital by Bethel College student Hayden Honomichl, voice, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel
· Now in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College – “Motherhood,” mixed media works by Eden Quispe, art teacher at Newton High School, through Fri., Nov. 17, with an artist reception Nov. 17. Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.

Life Enrichment at Krehbiel Auditorium, Bethel College—November 8
9:30 a.m. “William Allen White and the KKK,” Beverley Olson Buller, Newton
10:50 a.m “Creation Improvisation,” Weldon Schloneger, former teacher, retired pastor and avid photographer, North Newton

You are invited to join First Mennonite Church of Halstead for their Annual Mission Supper at their church building, 427 W 4th, Halstead, Sat., Nov 11 from 5-7 p.m. The meal will be by donation to benefit missionaries Dave & Rebekka Stutzman (Germany) and Joseph and Rachel Givens (France), and local mission projects. The menu is German Sausage, Chicken Borscht, Fried Potatoes, Green Beans, Sauerkraut, Zwiebach, and Pie.

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

For Mennonite Men “Engage” click here
For Anabaptist Disabilities Network click here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” click here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Mennonite Church USA has launched “Learn, Pray, Join: End Gun Violence,” an initiative to bring awareness to the complex issue that intersects with poverty, racism, discrimination, criminal justice, education and the environment. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/educate-topic-lpj Visit the initiative page here: mennoniteusa.org/lpj-end-gun-violence

Menno Snapshots

Did you know that Mennonite Church USA has a health plan? The Corinthian Plan provides health coverage for eligible pastors, church employees and their families. Current participants of the plan are also welcome to ask questions. Learn more during an upcoming Zoom meeting on Nov. 3 at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT. Register here: https://shorturl.at/tBMV7 View the PDF here: mennoniteusa.org/TCP-zoom-meeting-PDF

Katie Graber, Anneli Loep Thiessen and Sarah Kathleen Johnson share a glimpse into the new resource, Guide to Voices Together Songs and Resources with Connections to Indigenous Communities in Canada and the United States, which was recently released by the Voices Together team. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/connecting-communities-voices-together

Join us for our second Learn. Pray. Join: End Gun Violence webinar, Intersectionality of Gun Violence, focused on the intersectionality of gun violence and the call to explore our Anabaptist response to it. This webinar will provide information about the impact of gun violence on different communities, as well as provide information about mental health impacts, including suicide and how congregations can walk alongside those at risk and their family/friends. Register here: https://shorturl.at/irS58 View the PDF here: mennoniteusa.org/lpj-end-gun-violence-webinar-PDF

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: MMN requests prayer for the Johnstown Service Adventure unit, made up of Elias Wolff, Henriette Preuss, Leni Schreiber and Marie Haller, as well as unit leaders Josh and Stef Musser and their children, Jacob and Noah. Pray for a harmonious household, deepening faith and service that reflects God’s love through clinics, Head Start, school and after-school programs.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC’s Israel Palestine Task Force, and for WDC congregations that are engaged in advocacy for peace and justice for all who suffer war and violence.

Announcements for October 29 – November 5, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
Worship Service and Announcements for October 29, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
October 29, 2023
Reformation Sunday

Prelude—God of Heaven and of Earth (Sigfrid Karg-Elert), O my Soul, Rejoice with Gladness (Sigfrid Karg-Elert), Now Thank We all Our God (Sigfrid Karg-Elert)—Karen Schlabaugh

Christ Candle Lighting

Call to Worship and Prayer—Dorothy Nickel Friesen

*Hymn—A Mighty Fortress Is Our God—VT 421

Children’s Conversation—Dorothy Nickel Friesen

*Hymn—There Is a Line of Women—VT 546

Scripture Reading—Acts 2:1-4, 14-18—Joyce Holck

Sermon—Your Sons and Daughters will Prophesy—Lois Barrett

*Hymn—The Word of God Is Solid Ground—VT 399

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Move in Our Midst—VT 827
People with October birthdays come forward for a blessing, please bring a hymnal

Blessing and Benediction—Nathan Koontz

Sung Benediction—The Lord Lift You Up—VT 832

Postlude—Many Gifts (Patty Shelly)—Karen Schlabaugh

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

This Week at BCMC: October 29—November 5, 2023
Sun., October 29, 2023—Reformation Sunday
9:30 a.m.    Sermon by Lois Barrett
Reformation Sunday (always the last Sunday in October) is marked in Protestant churches for the reformers like Zwingli, Luther, Calvin, etc. However, the Anabaptists did not want to reform the church but declared that believer’s baptism, separation of church and state, and holy living were the true marks of the church, hence called the “Radical Reformation”.   Lois Barrett, ordained pastor and retired professor of theology and Anabaptist studies at Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary (Elkhart, IN) preaches today. She and Dorothy Nickel Friesen will lead the elective Sunday School (in the Sanctuary) with a presentation and discussion of the book they co-edited, Proclaiming the Good News: Mennonite Women’s Voices 1972-2006, recently published by AMBS/Institute of Mennonite Studies.
Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/CRW9ATSb-5k?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)

Wed., November 1, 2023—Wednesday Night Supper
5:30 p.m.   Wednesday night supper in Fellowship Hall—
Menu is: Sausage potato breakfast casserole, Fruit, Waffle Cake
6:30 p.m.   Wednesday Night Programming: Senior High Youth Representatives Panel on Climate Change in Fellowship Hall
6:30 p.m.   Wednesday Night Club
7:30 p.m.   Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the Sanctuary Chancel area
Thurs., November 2, 2023
4 p.m.         Staff Congregation Relations Committee meeting in Room 14
6:30 p.m.   Chancel Bell rehearsal in Room B7
7 p.m.         Church Board meeting in Room 14
Sun., November 5, 2023
9:30 a.m.      Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz; welcoming new members to BCMC        10:45 a.m. Faith Formation
4 p.m.           “Bethel Sings” in the Sanctuary

Congratulations to Herb and Mary Fransen who celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on October 24!

Roger’s Whereabouts : Roger will be back in the BCMC office on Wednesday morning, November 1, returning to Topeka on Sunday, November 5 . 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 October 22, 2023: General Fund $7,992; Wed. Supper $356.15; MCC Meat Canning $1,190; Plant Fund $150; Caring Fund $25; Bequests $15.42; Kitchen Fund $19; Women’s Fellowship $305. LaVerne Epp Memorial $50.

Congratulations! We are moving into the final quarter of 2023 in one of the strongest financial positions since 2016. We were about $850 short last month and we are down about $10,000 for the year, but with the intents/pledges that remain to be filled we should make it. With a bit of extra effort we could bring in dollars above budget which would go to support the churches list of benevolences. This seems like a laudable goal. — Finance Committee

Creation Care Challenge
Most of us are aware of the dangers that plastic bags are doing to our environment. So, let’s take a challenge to address that issue. We are encouraging everyone to participate in collecting clean plastic bags for recycling. These bags can be delivered to BCMC and placed in a receptacle in the south entrance. Our goal is to collect 1,000 pounds in one year with a reward of a composite bench made from plastic. Please combine smaller bags into a larger bag rather than dropping in separate bags.

If anyone is interested in a Pot Luck Thanksgiving meal, please contact Naomi Krause. You would be invited to bring your special dish. Two or more persons could volunteer to cook the turkey/ham. It’s fun to join together! naomikrause@gmail.com or call/text: 925-808-5620

It’s Supper Time at BCMC! Nov. 1, 5:30 p.m., in Fellowship Hall. Cost is $6/person or $18/family per meal. To facilitate the clean-up, please bring your own table service. Menu for Nov. 1 is Sausage potato breakfast casserole, Fruit, and Waffle cake.

You’re invited to a Panel Discussion on White Christian Nationalism Sunday, Oct. 29, 4 p.m., at Shalom Mennonite Church, Newton. Kansas Interfaith Action (KIFA) is holding a series of panel discussions throughout the state in October and November to explore White Christian Nationalism: what it is, how it is affecting state and national politics and policy, and how people of faith can effectively stand against it. Join KIFA and local community leaders for an in-depth discussion on this dangerous ideology, which is being used to push regressive policies in a wide variety of areas in Kansas and nationally. Panelists include Jerrell Williams, pastor of Shalom Mennonite Church, and Peter Goerzen, professor of Bible and Religion at Bethel College. As people of faith we are uniquely equipped to combat Christian Nationalism. In order to do so, we must first understand the concept and how it takes form in policy.

Harvey County Habitat for Humanity’s major fundraiser is a pick-up or dine-in pork chop meal on November 16 from 4-7 p.m. at Faith Mennonite Church. Call 316-283-0121 (before Nov. 2) and leave a message to reserve your meal(s). Bring your donation on Nov. 16, send to PO Box 1015, Newton KS 67114 or make on-line at harveycountyhabitat.org/donate.

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.

You are invited to a Warkentin House Hymn Sing and Faspa, Sun., Oct. 29, 4 p.m., Warkentin House, 211 E. 1st St., Newton. Reservations are required with a suggested donation of $10. Hymnals will be provided. Karen Bauman Schlabaugh, pianist, William Eash, song leader. To reserve your spot, email Merle Schlabaugh at mschlab@bethelks.edu.

You are invited to join First Mennonite Church of Halstead for their Annual Mission Supper at their church building, 427 W 4th, Halstead, Sat., Nov 11 from 5-7 p.m. The meal will be by donation to benefit missionaries Dave & Rebekka Stutzman (Germany) and Joseph and Rachel Givens (France), and local mission projects. The menu is German Sausage, Chicken Borscht, Fried Potatoes, Green Beans, Sauerkraut, Zwiebach, and Pie.

Join Hope Mennonite Church for their Fall Festival Sat., Nov. 4, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at the church building, 868 N. Maize Road, Wichita. All proceeds from the event help support Hope Mennonite Church service projects: Camp Mennoscah, Family Promise and MCC. There will be live music, a bake sale, kids activities, local vendors, Quilter’s Corner, and breakfast and lunch – Cinnamon Rolls, German Sausage, Bierocks, Pie, and more. All are welcome!

Bethel College Announcements
· TODAY (Sun., Oct. 29) & Mon., Oct. 30 – Annual Menno Simons Lectures, “The Mennonites in Revolutionary Ukraine,” with Dr. Aileen Friesen, professor of Mennonite studies at the University of Winnipeg, 7 p.m. Sunday, 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday, Krehbiel Auditorium at Bethel College. Lecture 1: “Violence Among Neighbors: Revolution and Tragedy in Southern Ukraine”; Lecture 2: “Beyond the Red Gate: Mennonites and Emigration from Soviet Ukraine”; Lecture 3: “In Love, We Remain: Family and Loss under Stalin.” Opportunity for discussion follows each lecture.
· Mon., Oct. 30 – “Motherhood,” mixed media works by Eden Quispe, opens in the Regier Art Gallery in Lukyen Fine Arts Center at Bethel College (reception Nov. 16). Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
· Tues., Oct. 31 – Bethel College Orchestra Halloween concert, “Halloween Soundscapes,” directed by Kris Hilding, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium. Music from internationally known video games and animation such as The Legend of Zelda, Princess Mononoke and Super Mario Brothers Galaxy.
· Sat., Nov. 4 – 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).
· Sun., Nov. 5 – Bethel Sings, a concert featuring all Bethel College vocal groups (Chapel Choir, Chamber Singers, Concert Choir, Open Road, Woven), Dr. Henry Waters, director, 4 p.m., Bethel College Mennonite Church (2600 College Ave., North Newton 67117)
· Mon., Nov. 6 – Julia Spicher Kasdorf: “Thinking of Certain Mennonite Women: Reading from her poems and those of others, with discussion,” 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel at Bethel College. Sponsored by the Bethel College Women’s Association Carolyn Schultz Lecture Endowment. Kasdorf will also speak in convocation Mon., Nov. 6, 11 a.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center, on “Documentary Poetry,” and lead a reading and open mic at 1887 Café, Tues., Nov. 7, at 7:30 p.m.
· Sat., Nov. 11 – Junior recital by Bethel College student Josué Coy Dick, violin, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel
· Sun., Nov. 12 – 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.

Life Enrichment at Krehbiel Auditorium, Bethel College—November 1
9:30 a.m. “Changing Landscape of Local Journalism and the Importance of Community Support,” Adam Strunk, minority owner and managing editor, Harvey County Now, Newton
10:50 a.m. “Midwest Arrowhead Hunting,” Mike Todd, Sedan.

Everence will hold an informative Medicaid and long-term care workshop Mon., Nov. 6, starting at 6:30 p.m. Topics include, what benefits are provided by Medicaid and who is eligible, how the Division of Assets process works, when long-term care insurance is a good fit, and how long-term care insurance can protect your heirs. There will also be time for your questions. The in-person workshop will be at the Everence office: 3179 N. Main St. Suite 1B, North Newton. Information will be presented by guest speaker, Cynthia A. Wiens, attorney from Adrian & Pankratz, P.A. To register contact Everence at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com.

GriefShare offers a safe, welcoming support group to help you discover relief, comfort, and peace of mind in loss. Manhattan Mennonite Church will host an online GriefShare group beginning November 1, 6:30-8 p.m., and continuing every Wednesday night through January 31. This group meets intentionally through the holidays because grief can be especially difficult in these seasons. A zoom link and a workbook will be available to those who register. More information here: https://www.griefshare.org/groups/175924

Schweitzers and Friends. An opportunity for the theatrically inclined. One of the events celebrating 150 years since ancestors came to the U.S. in 1874 is a musical drama to be given March 23 and 24, 2024, by Schweitzers and Friends. The first informational meeting will be Sun., Nov. 12, 2023, 2 p.m. in the Eden Mennonite Church, 401 18th Ave. Moundridge. If you are interested in being part of a drama depicting a history of Anabaptist Mennonites there are parts for children and adults, as well as a choir. Rehearsals will begin the last week of January and be held twice a week (the evening that works best and Sunday afternoons). Questions: contact Jenny Schrag by text or phone 620-747-9158.

From Mennonite Church USA

Join us for our second Learn. Pray. Join: End Gun Violence webinar focused on the intersectionality of gun violence and the call to explore our Anabaptist response to it. This webinar will provide information about the impact of gun violence on different communities, as well as provide information about mental health impacts, including suicide and how congregations can walk alongside those at risk and their family/friends.

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

From Mennonite Church USA – The Corinthian Plan – Open Enrollment – November 1, 2023 – click here

For Mennonite Men Appreciation Breakfast for men in Newton, Kansas area – November 18, 8 a.m. click here

Living that Matters for Men: A half-day retreat. Men, what kind of man do you want to be and how can you live a life that matters? In this half-day retreat, men will examine scripts we’ve been given, explore differing expressions of masculinity, and reconsider our purpose in life. This retreat will be led by Steve Thomas, director of Mennonite Men and author of Living that Matters (Herald Press, 2023), at Shalom Mennonite Church from 8:00-12:00, on Saturday, November 11. See more information or register at https://www.mennonitemen.org/.

For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” click here

For Mennonite Mission Network “News from around the world” press here

For Mennonite World Conference “Info” click here

For Anabaptist Disabilities Network “Opening Doors Blog” press here

We need your help! On Saturday, November, 18, 2023 Buhler Mennonite Church & IdeaTek need your help to package 50,000 meals. Our plan is to keep the meals local– providing food for our local neighbors. What a great way to give of your time during the Thanksgiving season to help those who struggle to put food on the table. There is a job for all ages 7 to 147 years of age. You can work one shift or both shifts. Job orientation is provided. This will be held at the Sand Hills Event Center in Hutchinson and there are two shifts available. Click below for more details and a link to signup…

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

Volunteers are needed immediately to work (M-F) alongside the facilities director on general maintenance tasks. Working on these regular maintenance tasks will allow more time for planning and preparation for the Retreat Center HVAC project. The project is running behind and we need to make up time! Call or text Jordan at 316-613-1848. Calls/texts will be answered between 8am – 5pm. Volunteer hours will also be 8am-5pm or a portion of that time. Please bring a water bottle and your lunch.

Other events and happenings:

Recruiting for Summer Staff at Hesston, Tabor, and Bethel College will take place November 6-8 respectively. Camp staff will be available primarily in the morning until lunch (or maybe somewhat longer) to answer questions about summer staff positions. Staffers need to be at least 18 years old, preferably with one year of college or equivalent experience (like volunteering). Positions include office, lifeguard, nature, music, maintenance, and crafts. A pizza gathering for interested people will be held on November 8 around 6:30pm, location TBD. Text or call Olivia at 316-293-7313 with questions.
The Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreats will be moving to the Retreat Center. All activities and lodging will be in the Retreat Center. HVAC renovations have not taken place yet, so space heaters will still be used. The Retreat Center is better insulated and will offer a more comfortable temperature than the dining hall. Cropping and crafting will be downstairs and meals will be upstairs, so attendees need to be prepared to go up and down stairs. If you have already registered and this does not work for you, contact us at 620-297-3290. Register now and bring your friends!

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Mennonite Church USA is saddened to announce that Patricia Shelly, 71, who was a former pastor, professor, MC USA Executive Board member and moderator, died Sept. 4, in Newton, Kansas, after a three-year struggle with pancreatic cancer. Patricia “Patty” Shelly served as a board member on the MC USA Executive Board from 2005 to 2017, the final four years of which she served as moderator-elect, then moderator. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/patricia-shelly

Menno Snapshots

Chrissie Muecke, curriculum writer and editor for MennoMedia and Brethren Press, describes how art depicted in The Peace Table was created with intention, with special consideration for diversity and creating ways for children to relate to the stories and the characters. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/art-peace-table

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Today brings closure to a five-day gathering of Mennonite Mission Network’s Mennonite Voluntary Service leaders and participants in Tucson, Arizona. Pray that this gathering inspired each participant to grow in their faith and in their practice of discipleship throughout the coming year.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: From generation to generation your mighty works have been. I also ask that your mighty works be manifested amid the times in which we live. Make us understand your desires and appreciate and carry out your projects and vision of these last days. In the name of Jesus we ask you. Amen -WDC Church Planting Commission

Announcements for October 22-29, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
OCTOBER 22, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
October 22, 2023
Twenty First Sunday After Pentecost

Prelude—Praise to the Lord, the Almighty (arr. Payne)–Will Wiebe-Friesen

Christ Candle Lighting—Dianne Epp

Call to Worship and Prayer

*Hymn—In the Rifted Rock I’m Resting—VT 619

Children’s Conversation—David Kreider

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

Scripture Reading—Exodus 33:12-23—Mara Oswald

*Hymn—We Long to Know Her—VT 44

Scripture Reading—Matthew 22:14-22—Mara Oswald

Sermon—Our God?—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—Ask the Complicated Questions—VT 440

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise—VT 98

Benediction

Postlude—Fanfare on “Mit freuden zart” (arr. Portman–)Will Wiebe-Friesen

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Audio visual—Ken Lamp

This Week at BCMC: October 8—15, 2023
Sun., October 22, 2023
9:30 a.m.   Worship YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/I4DjeiW3ERY?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)

2 p.m. Sunday, October 22 Wedding of Charlie Gibson and Nathan Garber in the BCMC Sanctuary
Congratulations to Verlene and Ron Garber on the marriage of their grandson Nathan Garber to Charlie Gibson,

Tues., October 24, 2023
11 a.m.       Staff meeting
Wed., October 25, 2023—Wednesday Night Supper
5:30 p.m.   Wednesday night supper in Fellowship Hall—Menu is: Chicken Cordon Bleu, green beans, wild rice, banana pudding dessert
7 p.m.         Youth Group meeting
7:30 p.m.   Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the Sanctuary Chancel area
Thurs., October 26, 2023
6:30 p.m.   Chancel Bell rehearsal in Room B7
7 p.m.         Deacon Commission meeting in Room 14
7 p.m.         Bethel College Women’s Association meeting in Fellowship           Hall
Sun., October 29, 2023—Reformation Sunday
9:30 a.m.    Sermon by Lois Barrett
10:45 a.m. Sunday school elective in the Sanctuary
Reformation Sunday (always the last Sunday in October) is marked in Protestant churches for the reformers like Zwingli, Luther, Calvin, etc. However, the Anabaptists did not want to reform the church but declared that believer’s baptism, separation of church and state, and holy living were the true marks of the church, hence called the “Radical Reformation”.   Lois Barrett, ordained pastor and retired professor of theology and Anabaptist studies at Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary (Elkhart, IN) will preach on October 29. She and Dorothy Nickel Friesen will lead the elective Sunday School with a presentation and discussion of the book they co-edited, Proclaiming the Good News: Mennonite Women’s Voices 1972-2006, recently published by AMBS/Institute of Mennonite Studies.

It’s Supper Time at BCMC! Oct. 25, 5:30 p.m., in Fellowship Hall. The cooks would like an idea of how much food to make so we are asking you to make reservations for supper by emailing the office by Mon., Oct. 23. Cost is $6/person or $18/family per meal. To facilitate the clean-up, please bring your own table service. Menu for Oct. 25 is Chicken Cordon Bleu, green beans, wild rice, banana pudding dessert.
For the office email, click here

Roger’s Whereabouts: Roger will be driving back to Topeka Sunday afternoon (10/22). He will be back in Newton on November 1. 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 October 15, 2023: General Fund $380.33; Wed. supper $641; MCC Meat Canning $150; Plant Fund $58.33; Library Reserve Fund $5; Patty Shelly Memorial $150.

Congratulations! We are moving into the final quarter of 2023 in one of the strongest financial positions since 2016. We were about $850 short last month and we are down about $10,000 for the year, but with the intents/pledges that remain to be filled we should make it. With a bit of extra effort we could bring in dollars above budget which would go to support the churches list of benevolences. This seems like a laudable goal. — Finance Committee

Creation Care Challenge
Most of us are aware of the dangers that plastic bags are doing to our environment. So, let’s take a challenge to address that issue. We are encouraging everyone to participate in collecting clean plastic bags for recycling. These bags can be delivered to BCMC and placed in a receptacle in the south entrance. Our goal is to collect 1,000 pounds in one year with a reward of a composite bench made from plastic. Please combine smaller bags into a larger bag rather than dropping in separate bags.

Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum, today Oct. 22 @ 3 p.m. – 4 p.m.
“Learning about Climate Change with Online Simulation Software: Agriculture, Food, and Equity Issues,” by Dr.Dwight Krehbiel, professor emeritus of psychology, Bethel College. The presentation will provide a rapid overview of a free online tool called En-ROADS to promote learning and thinking about climate change. Dr. Krehbiel will explore how this tool can be employed to help understand the role of agriculture and of food production and consumption in climate change, as well as the countless ways in which climate change threatens health and wellbeing, especially for people who are already poor or in some way marginalized. Dr. Krehbiel developed an interest in climate change modeling over a number of years of teaching a course on computing in science. In early 2020, he completed a 6-week training course in the use of En-ROADS software for workshops with diverse audiences, becoming a Climate Ambassador for Climate Interactive, a non-profit climate think-tank that created En-ROADS. Dwight has been teaching at Bethel for the past 46 years in psychology, statistics, and neuroscience.

Our Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Meat Canning dates are October 24 and 25 (Tuesday and Wednesday.) Make checks out to BCMC with “MCC Meat Canning” in the memo line. We also need volunteers to help with the canning. The link for work signup is: https://tinyurl.com/MeatCanning2023 If this doesn’t work, just show up—they’ll probably need you. Let’s help feed the hungry people in our world! —Lowell Stucky, BCMC Meating Canning Representative

Harvey County Habitat for Humanity’s major fundraiser is a pick-up or dine-in pork chop meal on November 16 from 4-7 pm at Faith Mennonite Church. Call 316-283-0121 (before Nov. 2) and leave a message to reserve your meal(s). Bring your donation on Nov.
16, send to PO Box 1015, Newton KS 67117 or make on-line at
harveycountyhabitat.org/donate.

Bethel College Announcements

(Sun., Oct. 22) – Guest lecture and performance: Dr. Jeffrey Savage, 4 p.m., Ad Building chapel at Bethel College. Dr. Savage, a faculty member at the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory, will discuss Beethoven’s “Sonata Op. 90” and then play it to conclude the program.

Mon., Oct. 23 – Brian Skinner, a teacher at Newton High School, will receive the 2023 Young Alumnus Award and give a presentation at Bethel College, 11 a.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center.

Sun., Oct. 29 & Mon., Oct. 30 – Annual Menno Simons Lectures, “The Mennonites in Revolutionary Ukraine,” with Dr. Aileen Friesen, professor of Mennonite studies at the University of Winnipeg, 7 p.m. Sunday, 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday, Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College. Lecture 1: “Violence Among Neighbors: Revolution and Tragedy in Southern Ukraine”; Lecture 2: “Beyond the Red Gate: Mennonites and Emigration from Soviet Ukraine”; Lecture 3: “In Love, We Remain: Family and Loss under Stalin.” Opportunity for discussion follows each lecture.
https://www.bethelks.edu/article/bethel-lecturer-will-look-historical-conflict-modern-war-zone

Tues., Oct. 31 – Bethel College Chamber Orchestra Halloween concert, directed by Kris Hilding, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center

Sun., Nov. 5 – Bethel Sings, a concert featuring all Bethel College vocal groups, Henry Waters, director, 4 p.m., Bethel College Mennonite Church (2600 College Ave., North Newton 67117)

Mon., Nov. 6 – Julia Spicher Kasdorf: “Thinking of Certain Mennonite Women: Reading from her poems and those of others, with discussion,” 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel at Bethel College. Sponsored by the Bethel College Women’s Association Carolyn Schultz Lecture Endowment. Kasdorf will also speak in convocation Mon., Nov. 6, 11 a.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center, on “Documentary Poetry,” and lead a reading and open mic at 1887 Café, Tues., Nov. 7, at 7:30 p.m.

Life Enrichment at Krehbiel Auditorium, Bethel College—October 25
9:30 a.m. “Welcoming refugees in Kansas,” Galyna Golyshevska, community engagement coordinator, International Rescue Committee Kansas, Wichita
10:35 a.m. “Maxwell Wildlife Refuge—As Good as It Gets,” Trisha Smith, director, Canton
11:30 a.m. “Coast to Coast by Bicycle,” John and Mindy Long, Newton

You are invited to a Warkentin House Hymn Sing and Faspa, Sun., Oct. 29, 4 p.m., Warkentin House, 211 E. 1st St., Newton. Reservations are required with a suggested donation of $10. Hymnals will be provided. Karen Bauman Schlabaugh, pianist, William Eash, song leader. To reserve your spot, email Merle Schlabaugh at mschlab@bethelks.edu.

Camp Mennoscah Announcement

M&M Project Update: SO CLOSE!!
As of October 16, we have raised more than $90,000 for the Mission and Maintenance Project at Camp Mennoscah! Thank you all who have supported this effort with your prayers and your gifts! It shouldn’t be long before we reach our goal of $100,000, matching our generous giver who started this challenge back in the Spring!

Donations have continued to come in from many individuals and congregations. On September 24, the good folks at Southern Hills Mennonite Church in Topeka, KS, had a Camp Sunday. Various people shared about their camp experiences, wore their Camp Mennoscah gear, and sang a few Camp songs during worship. Children’s time included a campfire! (Not a real one, but . . .) After church a taco salad lunch was served – a traditional Camp favorite! Southern Hills gave Camp Mennoscah’s M&M Project a gift of more than $3300 to help support Camp’s mission by supporting Camp’s Maintenance!

Camp Mennoscah had a booth at the Bethel College Fall Festival, where Camp gear was sold and a donation station collected money specifically for the M&M Project. That same weekend, First Mennonite Church in Halstead, KS, held their annual Hog Roast, with part of the proceeds going to M&M.

There are events coming up, the income from which will go to support M&M. Hoffnungsau Mennonite Church, Inman, KS, is holding its annual Mission Supper on October 21 with proceeds to go to the M&M Project, and First Mennonite Church in Beatrice, NE, is planning to host a breakfast event to raise funds on October 29.
We are almost there! Now is the time to make your donation and become part of the M&M Project and the promise it represents.
You can contact Tammy at the addresses below. Checks can be made to Camp with “M&M” in the memo line, or you can give your gifts online.

Tammy Duvanel Unruh
Development Director, Camp Mennoscah
tammy.d.unruh@campmennoscah.org
316-207-3472
or
Camp Mennoscah
PO Box 65    Murdock, KS 67111
620-297-3290

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.

Everence^® to hold Nov. 6 Medicaid and long-term care workshop

Everence will hold an informative Medicaid and long-term care workshop on Monday, Nov. 6, starting at 6:30 p.m. Topics will include, what benefits are provided by Medicaid and who is eligible, how the Division of Assets process works, when long-term care insurance is a good fit, and how long-term care insurance can protect your heirs. There will also be time for your questions. The in-person workshop will take place at the Everence office: 3179 N. Main St. Suite 1B, North Newton, KS.
Information will be presented by guest speaker, Cynthia A. Wiens, attorney from Adrian & Pankratz, P.A.
To register contact Everence at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com.

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

The Swiss Mennonite Cultural and Historical Association Fall banquet will be at Faith Mennonite Church, 2100 N. Anderson Ave., Thurs., Oct. 26, 6 p.m. Speaker will be Jerry Juhnke who has been researching Swiss Volhynian Mennonite genealogy and history, with a program entitled “Interesting Happenings Over Our Last 500 Years”. An ethnic German meal will be catered by the Breadbasket. Bohne beroggi will be made by authentic Schweitzer cooks. Cost to attend is $25 per person payable at the door. RSVP by texting or calling Nancy Stucky, 620-532-5693 by October 23.

QUILTOBER AT ROCKY MOUNTAIN – The window for October quilt retreats is closing fast with only UFO III, October 22-27 and Fall Mennonite Quilters Retreat, October 31-Nov. 3. Come enjoy good food, accommodations and fellowship as part of working on a variety of projects. Sharing projects, ideas, tips, techniques, walks and snacks are all part of the time shared together in retreat. To register, please visit the camp website at www.rmmc.org.

GriefShare offers a safe, welcoming support group to help you discover relief, comfort, and peace of mind in loss. Manhattan Mennonite Church will host an online GriefShare group beginning November 1, 6:30-8pm, and continuing every Wednesday night through January 31. This group meets intentionally through the holidays because grief can be especially difficult in these seasons. A zoom link and a workbook will be available to those who register. More information here: https://www.griefshare.org/groups/175924

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

A message from MC USA Moderator Jon Carlson. For the message press here
Mennonite Church USA Executive Board has named two peacemakers, Jonathan Kuttab and Sydney Leah Bontrager, as the 2023 Bring the Peace award winners. The denomination gives the award to a Legacy Peacemaker and a Young Peacemaker each year. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/23-btp-winners

Menno Snapshots

Sydney Leah Bontrager, Mennonite Church USA’s 2023 Bring the Peace award recipient, describes how God has impacted her through her work raising funds to provide relief to Myanmar villages and a Myanmar orphanage. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/interview-bontrager

For Mennonite Disaster Service “On the Level” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
For Anabaptist Disabilities Network “Opening Doors Blog” press here

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Tomorrow, Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission and its partners, from eight countries, are beginning their annual International Central Council meetings in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Mennonite Mission Network, one of these partners, asks you to join in prayer for God’s Spirit to guide the five days of worship, prayer, discernment and decision making for the coming year.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC staff as they help to carry out WDC’s work of supporting ministers and other leaders, resourcing congregations, and nurturing emerging communities of faith.