Category Archives: Announcements

Announcements for July 9-16, 2023

Worship Service for July 9, 2023 at Bethel College Mennonite Church

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 belows that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. Anytime after the service concludes, you can watch a recording of the service at your convenience by clicking the same green LIVE 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/eF2TItBTi8A?feature=share

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
July 9, 2023
MennoCon Youth Sharing

Prelude— As the Wind Song (VT 373) – (Setting, Michael Burkhardt)—Karen Unruh
Maisie Brubacher and Emma Gering

Christ Candle Lighting

Welcome and Prayer—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—Holy Spirit, Come with Power—VT 57

Children’s Conversation— Adah Hodge and Abram Wall

*Hymn Over My Head—VT 594

Scripture Reading—Isaiah 43:19-21; II Corinthians 5:17—Lucy Burch

BCMC Youth Reflections from MennoCon—Adah Hodge, Ani Koontz, Mara Oswald

*Hymn of Response—New Earth, Heavens New—VT 377

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—There’s a Wild Hope in the Wind—VT 828

*Benediction

Postlude

* You are invited to stand

VT = Voices Together
Keyboard—Karen Unruh
Audio visual— Ben Lichti

YouTube Link: https://youtube.com/live/eF2TItBTi8A?feature=share

This Week at BCMC: July 9-16, 2023
Sun., July 9, 2023
9:30 a.m. Worship with Senior High Youth Group reflections on
MennoCon23 (Mennonite Church USA Convention in Kansas City)
YouTube Link for this Sunday is:
https://youtube.com/live/eF2TItBTi8A?feature=share
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation—High School (Room 24) Adult Classes: Agape Class meets in the nursery; Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22);
Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21) Seekers (Rm 28)
Tue., July 11, 2023
12 p.m. Mid Kansas Investment Club meets in Fellowship Hall
Thurs., July 13, 2023
7 p.m. Kansas Relief Sale Board of Directors meets in Fellowship Hall
7 p.m. Finance Committee meets in Room 14
Sun., July 16, 2023
9:30 a.m. Worship with reflections by Al and Nadine Peters on their work with prison ministries in Nebraska

Sunday, July 23 – Hymn Sing
Sunday, July 23, our worship will be getting more acquainted with Voices Together. If you have a favorite in VT that you would like to sing, please, contact Monica Lichti in the church office with your request. NOTE: Requests may not all be used because of time limits.

Pastor Nathan Koontz will be on vacation July 12-21, 2023.

BCMC Offering for July 2, 2023: General Fund $2,785; Caring Fund $500; Library Reserve Fund $40; Living Stones $125; Kitchen Fund $6; Women’s Fellowship $50; Metta Lieb Memorial $125.

“Growing Up in Gaza—Bringing Peace and Justice to Israel-Palestine” will be presented by Tareq Abuhalima, Sun., Aug. 6, 10:45-11:45 a.m. at BCMC. The purpose of this event is to create a safe space for education and dialogue about the Israel-Palestine conflict. Tareq, a graduate student with Bluffton University, will share his experiences growing up in Gaza, working for the Youth Vision Society, and his “Gaza Twinning” relationship with Manhattan Mennonite Church. The presentation and following dialogue will also address antisemitism and other issues that surround this intractable conflict.

The Search Committee has been meeting monthly to continue the process of searching for BCMC’s next pastor. There continue to be many congregations within the conference that are experiencing transitions. We ask for your continued prayers for the committee and the congregation, as God prepares the heart of the right candidate for BCMC. The committee remains open to accepting names of possible candidates as well.

Children and Youth of BCMC: Read a book. Earn a Book. This summer, you can earn a book for the New Hope Shelter for each book checked out, read, and returned. Visit the table outside the door to the children’s room of the BCMC church library for more information. The challenge is to fill a whole shelf of books for homeless children and youth.
The Library Theme for June and July are Library Committee suggestions for Everybody/Junior books for the summer reading contest. As has already been noted, this contest is for any student who checks out a book from our library, reads it independently, reads it with someone or someone reads it to a student, and then returns it. We are excited to see how many books will be purchased for New Hope Shelter. —The Library Committee

BCMC Prayer Network: The Prayer Network is an email-based prayer network comprised of Deacon Commission members and BCMC congregants. Participants make a one-year commitment to this prayer ministry which is coordinated by Pastors and the Office and Facilities Manager. Pastors respond to prayer requests and determine when and how these requests are distributed. Specific prayer requests are shared only with the permission of the person(s) involved. If you would like to join the BCMC prayer network, please email your interest to office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org. Thanks to all who serve BCMC in the Prayer Network.

Care Connections Opportunity: Volunteers are needed to provide transportation for BCMCers to medical appointments, including appointments in Wichita. If you’re available and can provide loving care for one another in this way at this time, please call Elizabeth at the church office, or send an email to elizabeth@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org. “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35 ESV)

Roger’s Whereabouts : On Thursday (7/6) Roger will attend MennoCon23 in Kansas City, then represent BCMC at the MC USA Delegate Sessions on Friday and Saturday. Roger will then be on vacation in Missouri until July 19, when he will be back in the BCMC office. Roger will be checking his email and text messages occasionally during this time.

New Book: Lois Barrett and Dorothy Nickel Friesen has co-edited PROCLAIMING THE GOOD NEWS: MENNONITE WOMEN’S VOICES 1972 – 2006, published by the Institute of Mennonite Studies/AMBS. The book launch at MennoCon23 on July 6 and at Western District Conference Assembly on August 12 will introduce 13 authors including BCMC writers John Esau and Raylene Hinz Penner in addition to Dorothy. Faith and Life Bookstore plans a book-signing later in summer. A book for checkout is now in the BCMC Library and WDC Resource Library. If you would like to purchase a book, contact Dorothy (dorothynf@cox.net); cost is $29.

Greetings from Faith Formation!

Faith Formation is asking that ALL who are interested in being a part of building intergenerational relationships within the church fill out the attached survey.

If you are a parent of a youth who will attend the Intergenerational Sunday school class or who will be a part of Jr High Club or Senior High Youth Group, you may fill out the following Release Form for the 2023-24 school year.

Intergenerational Sunday school will follow this format from week to week. Teachers may decide to switch up the weeks to fit their needs.

Week 1: Introduction of the Bible story. Activity related to the Bible story.

Week 2: Reader’s Theatre or continuation of the Bible story.

Week 3: Craft or games

Week 4: Interview an adult who has joined us for the month (ask the week prior to interview)

The weekly schedule will follow the format below:

Following the service until 10:45 am

Arrival and snack (groups will be mixed ages at each table)
Questions of the day to discuss at table groups
Opening prayer and announcements

10:45 am – 11:15 am

Bible Story/Activity

11:15 am – 11:30 am

Clean up, Journal, or other activity with the teachers
Closing prayer and dismissal

Mark your calendar for the Sunday School Orientation/Safe Sanctuaries Date: August 20 from 12:00-1:00 pm. We will have a pizza lunch.

Intergenerational Survey: https://forms.gle/upn5yizoKEUvqumZ7

Youth Release Form: https://forms.gle/AfyQ7fV5RXHUJZqp7

2023-24 Faith Formation Calendar: https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0?cid=ZmFpdGhmb3JtYXRpb25jb21taXNzaW9uQGJldGhlbGNvbGxlZ2VtZW5ub25pdGVjaHVyY2gub3Jn

Thank you and have a wonderful summer!

Faith Formation Sunday School team

Jill Robb, Kathy Stucky, Rebecca Tschetter, Deb Gering, Mary Ellen Hodge

Newton Community Theatre and Bethel College Academy of Performing Arts (BCAPA) will present The Sound of Music musical July 21-23. Join us for this beloved musical and support your community members, including Caleb Garber and Lucy Burch in the orchestra pit, Riley King is the director, and Renee Reimer is one of the actors. Friday, July 21 at 7:30p.m.; Saturday, July 22 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, July 23 at 2 p.m. Tickets are on sale now at https://newton-community-theatre.square.site/ You can also purchase tickets at the door or reserve in advance at the Newton Rec Center (starting July 1). All ticket sales are final. No refunds or exchanges.

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

WDC Assembly 2023 Registration is now open below!

For Mennonite Central Committee In Touch press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

Each April, the Mennonite Church USA Church Vitality office and Everence collaborate to update the Pastor Salary Guidelines. These guidelines aid pastors, congregations, pastoral search committees and conferences in negotiating fair compensation for pastors and conference ministers. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/pastor-salary-guidelines

Menno Snapshots

In celebration of Pentecost Sunday, May 28, Katerina Gea, pastor at Wild Church Fresno (California), an MC USA congregation, celebrates the ways that the Spirit moves and highlights the connection between the Spirit’s outpouring on all of creation. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/pentecost-and-spirits

In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Andi Santoso, Mennonite Mission Network’s regional director for Asia and the Middle East, reflects on his experience as an Asian Mennonite Ministries representative at the Mennonite Church USA Constituency Leaders Council meeting in San Antonio, Texas. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/together-on-lords-table

As part of Mennonite Church USA’s “I choose to be Mennonite because …” blog series, Roger Farmer, retired pastor of Sugar Creek Mennonite Church, shares his experience of becoming a Mennonite through a life altering encounter with God and his calling to be a Conscientious Objector during the Vietnam war. Read his story here: mennoniteusa.org/god-knew-who-i-was Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Matthew and Toni Krabill’s ministry at the Paris (France) Mennonite Center. Pray for them as they work with others to launch a master’s degree program in conflict transformation that will be housed at Abidjan University of the Christian Missionary Alliance in Ivory Coast.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for the WDC Gifts Discernment Committee as they seek nominees for elected roles in WDC, and give thanks for those who are called to leadership in our conference.

Announcements for July 2-9, 2023

Worship for July 2, 2023
Bethel College Mennonite Church

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 belows that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. Anytime after the service concludes, you can watch a recording of the service at your convenience by clicking the same green LIVE 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/D3DDkyZMbys?feature=share

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
Interdependence Sunday
July 2, 2023

Prelude— Folk Tune Sketches—Irish   •  Celestia •   Land of Rest (Dale Wood)—
Karen Schlabaugh
A Sacred Space (by Wendy Stevens)—Maisie Brubacher

Christ Candle Lighting

Land Acknowledgment—Lyn Krause

Welcome and Prayer—Adam Robb

*Hymn—Let Us Build a House—VT 36

Children’s Conversation—Carol Flickinger

Worship Music—Classic Sonatina (by Nancy Faber)—Miles Brubacher

Scripture Reading—Deuteronomy 5:1, 6-8; Psalm 146:1-7; Luke 4:1-8—Mara Oswald

Sermon—Pledging Allegiances—Roger Neufeld Smith

*Hymn—This Is My Song— VT 710

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—God of Grace and God of Glory—VT 716

Benediction

Postlude—CWM Rhondda (Wilbur Held)—Karen Schlabaugh

*You are invited to stand
VT = Voices Together
Audio visual—Ken Lamp
YouTube Link:  https://youtube.com/live/D3DDkyZMbys?feature=share

This Week at BCMC: July 2-9, 2023
Sun, July 2, 2023
9:30 a.m.   Worship   YouTube Link for this Sunday is:
https://youtube.com/live/D3DDkyZMbys?feature=share

The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation—High School (Room 24)   Adult Classes: Agape Class meets in the nursery; Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22);
Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21) Seekers (Rm 28)

Mon., July 3, 2023
10 a.m. Staff meeting in Room 14
Tue., July 4, 2023—Independence Day Holiday—office will be closed; church will be locked
Thurs., July 6, 2023
11 a.m. Memorial Service for Rosie Horst at BCMC
7 pm.     Church Board meeting in Room 14
Sun., July 9, 2023
9:30 a.m. Worship with Senior High Youth Group reflections on
MennoCon23 (Mennonite Church USA Convention in Kansas City)

The memorial service for Rosie Horst will be Thursday, July 6, 11 a.m. at BCMC. The YouTube Link for the service is: https://youtube.com/live/oW9WQvNAt94?feature=share

Please pray for the nine youth and four sponsors of the Senior High Youth Group and the other delegates and attendees of MennoCon23, July 2-6(Mennonite Church USA Convention in Kansas City)

BCMC Offering for June 25, 2023: General Fund $9,485; Senior High Youth $600; Living Stones $40; Kitchen Fund $9; Women’s Fellowship $10; Metta Lieb Memorial $25.

“Growing Up in Gaza—Bringing Peace and Justice to Israel-Palestine” will be presented by Tareq Abuhalima, Sun., Aug. 6, 10:45-11:45 a.m. at BCMC. The purpose of this event is to create a safe space for education and dialogue about the Israel-Palestine conflict. Tareq, a graduate student with Bluffton University, will share his experiences growing up in Gaza, working for the Youth Vision Society, and his “Gaza Twinning” relationship with Manhattan Mennonite Church. The presentation and following dialogue will also address antisemitism and other issues that surround this intractable conflict.

We offer sympathy to Janet, Orvin, Jon, and Ian Voth and their extended family on the death of Janet’s brother, Joel Klaassen. Joel died June 29 in Georgia. A memorial service will be held in the fall of 2023.

Thanks for all the prayers and well wishes while I was in the hospital and now at home with Home Health Care. God sent an angel, my new neighbor, who found me unconscious lying near the sedum patch at my home and he called 911. Also many thanks to the dear angels who spent a couple hours weeding my garden and beds. I am thankful to God and my caring church. — Louise Thieszen

The Search Committee has been meeting monthly to continue the process of searching for BCMC’s next pastor. There continue to be many congregations within the conference that are experiencing transitions. We ask for your continued prayers for the committee and the congregation, as God prepares the heart of the right candidate for BCMC. The committee remains open to accepting names of possible candidates as well.

BCMC Prayer Network: The Prayer Network is an email-based prayer network comprised of Deacon Commission members and BCMC congregants. Participants make a one-year commitment to this prayer ministry which is coordinated by Pastors and the Office and Facilities Manager. Pastors respond to prayer requests and determine when and how these requests are distributed. Specific prayer requests are shared only with the permission of the person(s) involved. If you would like to join the BCMC prayer network, please email your interest to office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org. Thanks to all who serve BCMC in the Prayer Network.

Care Connections Opportunity: Volunteers are needed to provide transportation for BCMCers to medical appointments, including appointments in Wichita. If you’re available and can provide loving care for one another in this way at this time, please call Elizabeth at the church office, or send an email to elizabeth@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org. “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35 ESV)

Roger’s Whereabouts : Roger will be driving back to Topeka on Monday. This Thursday he will attend MennoCon23 in Kansas City, then represent BCMC at the MC USA Delegate Sessions on Friday and Saturday. Roger will then be on vacation in Missouri until July 19, when he will be back in the BCMC office. Roger will be checking his email and text messages occasionally during this time.

Mennonite Central Committee School Kits

Lincoln and Lawrence Kohlman have joined the MCC School Kit Challenge! Their goal is to pack and donate 100 school kits by the end of August. We estimate that they will need about $850 (plus 100 bags) to meet this goal, although we will use the money we raise to make as many kits as we can! We hope that we can do more with the money when school supplies go on sale.

How can you help? To donate, see Lincoln or Lawrence. To make bags for the school kits we want to pack, use the MCC website for directions and let us know how many you plan to make.

We will plan to host a time to pack school kits. Let us know if you want to be invited!

Megan Kohlman
she/her

The Bethel College Mennonite Church Library has added new books.

For the list of new books click here.

Children and Youth of BCMC: Read a book. Earn a Book. This summer, you can earn a book for the New Hope Shelter for each book checked out, read, and returned. Visit the table outside the door to the children’s room of the BCMC church library for more information. The challenge is to fill a whole shelf of books for homeless children and youth.
The Library Theme for June and July are Library Committee suggestions for Everybody/Junior books for the summer reading contest. As has already been noted, this contest is for any student who checks out a book from our library, reads it independently, reads it with someone or someone reads it to a student, and then returns it. We are excited to see how many books will be purchased for New Hope Shelter.
—The Library Committee

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
Join us for the Western District Conference Annual Assembly! It’s for everybody on August 11-13, 2023 at Tabor Mennonite Church, Newton. We’ll worship, work, eat great, local food, enjoy local music, connect with new and old friends, experience faith formation for all ages, and have many choices of great workshops. We hope you’ll agree Annual Assembly is a great place to learn about and grow in faith in Christ, care for the broader church, and worship our God of love and justice with God’s people in Western District Conference! BCMC needs to find delegates for the WDC Assembly. Delegates can also attend virtually. BCMC would be eligible to send 15 delegates to the Assembly. If you would like to be a delegate contact the BCMC office.
WDC Annual Assembly Delegate Session – Agenda for delegates will include an introduction to the conference-wide Listening Process, report on the Anti-Racism Audit, recognition of the closing of Trinity Mennonite Church and the introduction of two new church plants, update on conference facilities and finances, approval of the 2024 budget, highlights from the work of WDC commissions, election of new board, commission and committee leaders, and more! Delegate materials will be posted here as they are available: https://mennowdc.org/2023-assembly-delegate-information/ —- Register at https://mennowdc.org/2023-wdc-assembly-registration/ to join others from around the conference in our work together.
Visit: https://mennowdc.org/2023-wdc-annual-assembly/ for more info on this summer’s Assembly!

Staff position opening: Western District Conference seeks a quarter-time Fund Development Coordinator beginning July 2023 to cultivate donor relationships and congregational giving, promote planned giving, and generate creative fundraising initiatives. Qualifications include communication, fund-raising and development skills. Position description and application form at https://mennowdc.org/employment/. Please submit application and letter of interest to heidirk@mennowdc.org.

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

Get ready for a celebration of a summer of faith formation and camp songs! The Camp Sing will be August 5 at Hope Mennonite Church in Wichita. This is a time to gather for an evening of singing and friends. All ages, campers and others–everyone is invited! Details will be forthcoming. Put it on your calendar so you don’t miss out.

Other events and happenings:

Camper pick-up is 10:30am to 11:30am on the last day of camp. Thursday is the last day of camp for PreJunior Camp. Friday is the last day of camp for Junior, Junior High, and Senior High camps. We want to make sure you are here to pick up your campers and hear the fun stories about the week.
Registration for the Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreats is open. The retreats are scheduled for Nov. 3-5 and Nov. 10-12. All retreat activities will happen at the Main Camp facilities with cropping and crafts in the dining hall and lodging in the bunkhouses. (The Retreat Center will be undergoing HVAC renovations.) Single rooms are not available. Contact us at 620-297-3290 with questions or issues. We’ll see you in the fall!
Click to register! We are halfway through the summer but there is still space at remaining camps. Registrations are being accepted. The summer theme is FruitFULL Faith. Get ready to learn and sing about the Fruit of the Spirit this summer–it’s not a coconut!
Some scholarship funds are still available. These scholarship funds are to assist campers who might not otherwise be able to attend a week of camp. To request scholarship funds, complete the online form. Questions can be directed to olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.
Thank you for the outpouring of toilet paper rolls for summer youth camp crafts! We have enough for the rest of the summer. (If rolls are already on the way, no problem. We have other uses for them.) The toilet paper roll drive was so successful, we’re starting another one. Drop off your loose bills and spare change when you come to camp or send them in check form. They’ll be added to the Camp Life fund, which helps fund things for activities (sports equipment, replacing worn out items, etc.) and renovations. Let us do you the favor of keeping your pockets clutter-free!

From Camp Mennoscah

Thank You! Camp Mennoscah is happy to announce that money continues to come to Camp through the engagement of good people like yourselves with the M&M Project. Churches, small groups, families, and individuals are signing up to the “Fire Keepers” – $1000 givers – and as of last week, we have almost half of what we need to reach our goal of $100,000 in pledges. If you haven’t signed up, or if you don’t have the money right now – remember that the gift can be spread over several months or weeks – your choice. We know you will want to be in on this opportunity to continue our Mission at Camp. (And please let this be a reminder to those who have pledged to keep sending the checks to make sure you meet your commitment! We’re counting on you and we know your belief in the mission and ministry of Camp!)

Churches are invited to put together a fundraising event this year that would specifically benefit the M&M Project.Churches are planning events for the summer and the fall. If you would like camp representation at such an event at your church, we are more than happy to see what we can do! And we’ll advertise for you on our website and Facebook page. We know you have great ideas!

For more information, check out the Camp Mennoscah Website, or contact Tammy at the addresses below. Checks can be made to Camp with “M&M” in the memo, or you can give online.

Tammy Duvanel Unruh
Development Director, Camp Mennoscah
tammy.d.unruh@campmennoscah.org
316-207-3472

Camp Mennoscah
PO Box 65 Murdock, KS 67111
620-297-3290

Swiss Volhynian Celebration of 150 years since ancestors came to USA in 1874—150 Years since our ancestors came to the USA. 1874-2024. Let’s celebrate all year. To remember the old days with agriculture come see a “Plowing with Horses” event July 15. Glen Goering, Darrell Schrag, Nathan Graber, and the Ag Committee have invited horse and plow owners to demonstrate Sat., July 15, at a 22-acre field west of the Moundridge Museum, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Concessions will be available from Gospel Mennonite and a tent for shade. Bring a lawn chair. The Museum will also be open. There will be “Planting Turkey Red Wheat” in October. Possibly more events in 2023 with the main celebration on August 22-25, 2024 at Eden Mennonite Church in rural Moundridge.

For MennoCon23 Newsletter press here
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

#MennoCon23

Mennonite Church USA has released the seminar lineup for MennoCon23, the denominational convention being held in Kansas City, Missouri, July 3-6. Alongside daily worship services, seminars make up the bulk of the convention’s faith formation programming, with three seminar timeslots scheduled each full day of the event — one in the mornings and two in the afternoons. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/mennocon23-seminar

Follow along with the day-to-day excitement of MennoCon23, the Youth & Young Adult Climate Summit and the Delegate Assembly by subscribing to MC USA’s daily email convention newsletter, the KC Sauce, here: mennoniteusa.org/kcsauce View the online version here: www.mennoniteusa.org/kcsauce/

In case you missed it, watch the recording of part I of the Delegate Assembly: Know Before You Go webinar series. Host and panelists review the agenda and discuss the best way for conferences, congregations and delegates to prepare as well as the role of delegates in the discernment process: mennoniteusa.org/da23-webinar1

In case you missed it, watch the recording of part II of the Delegate Assembly: Know Before You Go webinar series. Leaders from MC USA, Everence and MHS Association discuss the proposed organizational resolutions for the upcoming Delegate Assembly in Kansas City: mennoniteusa.org/da23-webinar2

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for all those traveling to MennoCon, the four-day MC USA convention in Kansas City, Missouri, that begins tomorrow. Pray for Mission Network staff and partners as they present youth service opportunities and talk about the church’s response to immigrants and displaced people, violence in South Africa, and global climate change.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for delegates and other adults, youth and children from WDC attending MennoCon23 in Kansas City this week, as they join in fellowship, learning and discernment together with others from Mennonite Church USA.

Announcements for June 25-July 2, 2023

Worship Service for June 25, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
June 25, 2023

Prelude—Praise Him! Praise Him! (arr. Labenske); I Sing the Mighty Power of God (arr. Labenske); Savior Like a Shepherd Lead Us (arr. Rice)—Meghann Rogers

Christ Candle Lighting

Welcome and Prayer—John Kliewer

*Hymn—Summoned by the God Who Made Us—VT 1

Children’s Conversation—Kathy Stucky

*Hymn—Rain Down—VT 703

Scripture Reading—Jeremiah. 20:7-13; Romans. 6:1b-11; Matthew. 10:24-28, 37-39—Hodges?

Sermon—Reoriented—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn of Response—Open, Lord, My Inward Ear—VT 548

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Go Now in Peace, Worship Continues—VT 829
People with June birthdays come forward for a blessing, please bring a hymnal.

*Benediction

Postlude– Amazing Grace (arr. Labenske)—Meghann Rogers

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

Offertory at BCMC
As a way of acknowledging our offertory during our Sunday morning worship, the ushers will bring up the offertory trays to the communion table during the Hymn of Response. Then, as we have already been doing, the worship leader will give thanks for the offering during the Prayers of God’s People.

This Week at BCMC: June 25—July 2, 2023

Sun, June 25, 2023
9:30 a.m.   Worship   YouTube Link for this Sunday is:
https://youtube.com/live/Pkq4wosFEUM?feature=share

The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation—High School (Room 24)   Adult Classes: Agape Class meets in the nursery; Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22);
Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21) Seekers (Rm 28)

3 p.m. Program in Fellowship Hall with John Stoesz. John Stoesz will talk about the “Repair Network Project” in Mountain Lake, MN

Mon., June 26, 2023
2 p.m.     Credence Report Task Group meeting in Room 14
Tue., June 27, 2023
11 a.m. Staff meeting in Room 14
Wed., June 28, 2023
7 p.m.   Senior High Youth Group
Sun., July 2, 2023
9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Roger Neufeld Smith; music by Maisie Brubacher and Miles Brubacher

Congregational Care Coordinator Elizabeth Schmidt will be on vacation June 24-30.

We offer sympathy to Dale Horst and family on the death of Dale’s wife Rosie Horst. Rosie died Friday, June 16.   A date for the memorial service will be announced later.

BCMC Offering for June 18, 2023: General Fund $10,736.13; Caring Fund $1,500; Living Stones $108.33; Kitchen Fund $16.

Congratulations to BCMC, May was a great month financially! For the 2nd consecutive month we have had a positive monetary balance. With continued effort in June, we will enter the 2nd half of the year in a strong financial position. Finance Committee

Roger’s Whereabouts
Roger will be back at BCMC this Sunday, June 25, for worship and to attend the Casa Betania 15th Anniversary Celebration at First Mennonite Church. He will stay for the regular BCMC staff meeting on Monday, then drive back to Topeka Monday afternoon, June 26. He will be back in Newton on Thursday, June 29. Roger checks his email and phone messages regularly for messages, so feel free to contact him via email or text while he is in Topeka.

Iglesia Menonita Casa Betania invites local Mennonite congregations to a 15th anniversary service Sunday, June 25 at 4 p.m. in the sanctuary of First Mennonite Church, 429 E. 1st St., Newton, where Casa Betania worships. After the service there will be a time of fellowship with a meal. Casa Betania will provide main dishes and an anniversary cake. Guests do not need to bring food, but those who would like to bring something are welcome to share a salad or fruit.

The Search Committee has been meeting monthly to continue the process of searching for BCMC’s next pastor. There continue to be many congregations within the conference that are experiencing transitions. We ask for your continued prayers for the committee and the congregation, as God prepares the heart of the right candidate for BCMC. The committee remains open to accepting names of possible candidates as well.

BCMC Pride Month Activities
June is Pride month for LGBTQIA persons and our church plans to celebrate and raise awareness for those who identify as LGBTQIA in the following ways.
-Pride banners are hung outside our church building during the month of June. Thanks to Oscar Gonzalez, Graphic Design Coordinator at Bethel College, for his design!
-Nathan Koontz of BCMC represented the local Supportive Communities Network (SCN) during worship at Faith Mennonite as they celebrated joining SCN. SCN is part of the Brethren Mennonite Council for LGBT Interests. Local SCN congregations include BCMC, Shalom, New Creation, and Lorraine Avenue.
-This month the Bethel College Mennonite Church Inclusion Task Group sent a letter to the Mennonite Central Committee encouraging them to eliminate their discriminatory policies towards LGBTQIA persons. To learn more about MCC’s lifestyle policy (HR 152) and our letter, please contact Karen Ediger, John Kliewer, Nathan Koontz, or Karen Penner of the Inclusion Task Group.
-The congregation is invited to join in various Wichita Pride activities throughout the month of June. Go to the wichitapride.org website for more details. Of special note is the Pride Parade on June 25 at 11 a.m. The route will begin at the Old Courthouse (510 N. Main Street, Wichita) and end at Century II.

Children and Youth of BCMC:  Read a book.  Earn a Book.  This summer, you can earn a book for the New Hope Shelter for each book checked out, read, and returned. Visit the table outside the door to the children’s room of the BCMC church library for more information.  The challenge is to fill a whole shelf of books for homeless children and youth.
The Library Theme for June and July are Library Committee suggestions for Everybody/Junior books for the summer reading contest. As has already been noted, this contest is for any student who checks out a book from our library, reads it independently, reads it with someone or someone reads it to a student, and then returns it. We are excited to see how many books will be purchased for New Hope Shelter.   —The Library Committee

BCMC Prayer Network: The Prayer Network is an email-based prayer network comprised of Deacon Commission members and BCMC congregants. Participants make a one-year commitment to this prayer ministry which is coordinated by Pastors and the Office and Facilities Manager. Pastors respond to prayer requests and determine when and how these requests are distributed.  Specific prayer requests are shared only with the permission of the person(s) involved. If you would like to join the BCMC prayer network, please email your interest to office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org. Thanks to all who serve BCMC in the Prayer Network.

Care Connections Opportunity: Volunteers are needed to provide transportation for BCMCers to medical appointments, including appointments in Wichita. If you’re available and can provide loving care for one another in this way at this time, please call Elizabeth at the church office, or send an email to elizabeth@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org. “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35 ESV)

The Western District Conference Annual Assembly

Join us for the Western District Conference Annual Assembly! It’s for everybody on August 11-13, 2023 at Tabor Mennonite Church, Newton. We’ll worship, work, eat great, local food, enjoy local music, connect with new and old friends, experience faith formation for all ages, and have many choices of great workshops. We hope you’ll agree Annual Assembly is a great place to learn about and grow in faith in Christ, care for the broader church, and worship our God of love and justice with God’s people in Western District Conference!

BCMC NEEDS YOU TO BE A DELEGATE!

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE A DELEGATE TO THE WDC ANNUAL ASSEMBLY PLEASE EMAIL THE CHURCH OFFICE – office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org
Your registration will be paid by BCMC. Transportation and lodging costs are not reimbursed, but should be minimal as the WDC Assembly is at Tabor Mennonite Church..

2023 WDC Annual Assembly – August 11-13

At Tabor Mennonite Church, 891 Chisholm Trail, Newton, KS 67114

WDC Annual Assembly Delegate Session – Agenda for delegates will include an introduction to the conference-wide Listening Process, report on the Anti-Racism Audit, recognition of the closing of Trinity Mennonite Church and the introduction of two new church plants, update on conference facilities and finances, approval of the 2024 budget, highlights from the work of WDC commissions, election of new board, commission and committee leaders, and more! Delegate materials will be posted here as they are available: https://mennowdc.org/2023-assembly-delegate-information/ —- Register at https://mennowdc.org/2023-wdc-assembly-registration/ to join others from around the conference in our work together.

Visit: https://mennowdc.org/2023-wdc-annual-assembly/ for more info on this summer’s Assembly!
WDC Assembly 2023 Registration is now open below!

Kauffman Museum is offering an intergenerational Uncle Carl’s Camp called “Pottery Possibilities,” July 10-14 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. on the Bethel campus. Campers will start with hand-building before throwing on potter’s wheels, and wrap up the week with glazing and an outdoor firing (weather permitting). Completed artwork may be picked up at a later date. No previous experience is required. To sign up or to explore other Uncle Carl’s Camp offerings, stop by Kauffman Museum (27th & North Main, North Newton) to pick up a brochure or visit https://kauffmanmuseum.org/uncle-carls-camp/

A Gift for You–The Western District Conference Resource Library summer reading program for all ages includes a gift for you. Stop by the library from May 30-Aug. 10 to pick out a wrapped package and a response sheet or request one be mailed to you. The book/DVD/resource inside is yours to keep. Fill out a response sheet and return to the library for a ticket into the prize drawing (gift cards for teens/adults and a prize bag for kids). The WDC Resource Library is located at 2517 N Main in North Newton. For questions and mailing requests, email crlib@mennowdc.org
Instead of a traditional Summer Story Hour, the WDC Conference Resource Library will be hosting Story Days with a self-guided, come-and-go approach with activities for ages 3-8 and their caregiver(s) on July 20 and Aug. 3 from 9 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Read alouds by library staff/volunteers on the hour from 9 a.m.-7p.m.

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
Staff position opening: Western District Conference seeks a quarter-time Fund Development Coordinator beginning July 2023 to cultivate donor relationships and congregational giving, promote planned giving, and generate creative fundraising initiatives. Qualifications include communication, fund-raising and development skills. Position description and application form at https://mennowdc.org/employment/. Please submit application and letter of interest to heidirk@mennowdc.org.

First Mennonite Church in Hutchinson invites you to a Coalition to Dismantle the Doctrine of Discovery Movie Showing & Book Signing with Mark Charles Sat., July 8, 6:30 p.m. at the church. The film, The Custodians: A Story of Ancient Echoes, explores the work of local landowners, volunteers and municipal government of Herschel, Saskatchewan, in protecting and conserving the many signs of historic Indigenous presence in the region. The book,
Unsettling Truths, by author Mark Charles, is a prophetic blend of history, theology, and cultural commentary, that reveals the far-reaching, damaging effects of the “Doctrine of Discovery.” Stay after the film showing for a panel with Mark Charles and Jonathan Neufeld. FMC Hutchinson is located at 52 Rambler Road, Hutchinson.

Kidron Bethel Village in North Newton will host it’s annual Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza on July 4. Arrival is welcome after 7:30 p.m., and fireworks will begin after sundown. It is recommended that you bring your own chairs or blankets for fireworks viewing. The free outdoor event will include family fun with games, giveaways and food for purchase, including Salted Creamery ice cream. Kidron Bethel is located at 3001 Ivy Dr., in North Newton. Parking for the event will be marked.

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

Thank you for the outpouring of toilet paper rolls for summer youth camp crafts! We have enough for the rest of the summer. (If rolls are already on the way, no problem. We have other uses for them.) The toilet paper roll drive was so successful, we’re starting another one. Drop off your loose bills and spare change when you come to camp or send them in check form. They’ll be added to the Camp Life fund, which helps fund things for activities (sports equipment, replacing worn out items, etc.) and renovations. Let us do you the favor of keeping your pockets clutter-free!

Other events and happenings:

Camper pick-up is 10:30am to 11:30am on the last day of camp. Friday is the last day of camp for Junior, Junior High, and Senior High camps. We had conflicting information that was sent out to parents/guardians and we want to make sure you are here to pick up your campers and hear the fun stories about the week.
Registration for the Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreats is open. The retreats are scheduled for Nov. 3-5 and Nov. 10-12. All retreat activities will happen at the Main Camp facilities with cropping and crafts in the dining hall and lodging in the bunkhouses. (The Retreat Center will be undergoing HVAC renovations.) Single rooms are not available. Contact us at 620-297-3290 with questions or issues. We’ll see you in the fall!
Click to register! We are almost halfway through the summer but there is still space at remaining camps. Registrations are being accepted. The summer theme is FruitFULL Faith. Get ready to learn and sing about the Fruit of the Spirit this summer–it’s not a coconut!
Just want to let you know that things will look different! The landscaping around the Retreat Center will be removed in preparation for the replacement of the HVAC system at the Retreat Center and to meet code. There is not a firm timeline when this will start. New landscaping will be determined at a later time.
Some scholarship funds are still available. These scholarship funds are to assist campers who might not otherwise be able to attend a week of camp. To request scholarship funds, complete the online form. Questions can be directed to olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.

For Mennonite Creation Care Network press here
For Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level press here
For Mennonite Mission Network News from around the world press here
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Greetings!
I’m writing to share about the summer 2023 issue of Intersections: MCC Theory and Practice Quarterly, on the theme of “savings and loan groups.” It is available now on-line here. Compiled by Michael Adeola, this issue features learning from and analysis of MCC-supported savings and loan efforts in Uganda, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Nepal, India, and Cambodia.
As always, we welcome any feedback you have about this or other issues of Intersections! Send any thoughts, affirmations, critiques, and counsel you might have to intersections@mcc.org. Thanks for being a loyal reader!

Warm regards,
Alain Epp Weaver

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
#BeTransformed
When Marc Smithers, one of three delegates selected from Sojourner’s Mennonite Fellowship to participate in “A Day of Fellowship and Discernment” for the New York Mennonite Conference, he felt apprehensive. But as the event unfolded, the intentionality of the event’s planning committee was evident. Read more of his experience here: mennoniteusa.org/called-to-community

#MennoCon23
“We live in a fragmented society. Most of us have grown accustomed to spending the vast majority of our time alone and apart, even if we are in the vicinity of other people,” writes Dianne Garcia, future MennoCon23 speaker. Read her reflections here: mennoniteusa.org/creating-kingdom-community

Menno Snapshots
“From the time I was very young, I wanted to write a children’s book. I spent many hours coming up with characters and interesting plotlines.” Chrissie Muecke, curriculum writer and editor for MennoMedia, a Mennonite Church USA agency, reflects on her experience editing “The Peace Table: A Storybook Bible” for children. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/preparing-peace-table

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Jae Young Lee and Karen Spicher, and their four children, as they minister in South Korea. Pray for Jae, as he serves as the executive director of Northeast Asia Regional Peacebuilding Institute (NARPI) and Korea Peacebuilding Institute, and pray for Karen as she works as NARPI’s communications coordinator.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Please pray for churches grappling with changes in these post-pandemic times. May we find ways forward that are creative, that meet people and families where they are, and which leave behind anything holding us back. May we remember that Jesus is the same, yesterday, today, and forever – even as our world changes. -WDC Church Planting Commission

Announcements for June 18-25, 2023

June 18, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
June 18, 2023
Juneteenth Sunday

Prelude—Go Down, Moses (arr. Wilhelmi)
Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child (arr. Wilhelmi)
Precious Lord, Take My Hand (arr. Shackley)
Will Wiebe-Friesen

Christ Candle Lighting

Welcome and Prayer—Jim Juhnke

*Hymn—Praise with Joy the World’s Creator—VT 428

Children’s Conversation—Esther Koontz

Worship Music—Steal Away arr. H.T. burleigh)–Matt Schloneger

Land Acknowledgement—Valetta Seymour

Scripture Reading— Psalm 100; Exodus 19:2-6; Romans 5:1-8

Sermon—Lamentation and Celebration—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn of Response—O Healing River—VT 706

Prayers of God’s People

Commissioning of New Leaders—VT 965

*Hymn—Go, My Friends, in Grace—VT 810

*Benediction

Postlude–Adoration (Florence B. Prcie)

* You are invited to stand

VT = Voices Together
Keyboard—Will Wiebe-Friesen
Audio visual—Francis Toews

Offertory at BCMC
As a way of acknowledging our offertory during our Sunday morning worship, the ushers will bring up the offertory trays to the communion table during the Hymn of Response. Then, as we have already been doing, the worship leader will give thanks for the offering during the Prayers of God’s People.

A Note about the prelude piece, Adoration: Florence B. Price (1887-1953) was an African American woman and a prolific composer of high quality keyboard, symphonic, and vocal music works that were only published long after her death, in the last 20 years.

YouTube Link:  https://youtube.com/live/_8qMdqXAQZc?feature=share

Land Acknowledgement compiled by Florence Schloneger from words by Mark Charles and VT #878
As we do on a 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.

There will be an orientation for new commission, board, and committee members Sunday, June 18, during the Sunday School hour, in the Fellowship Hall. Continuing members of groups need not attend this orientation, although all those interested are welcome.

This Week at BCMC: June 18-25, 2023
Sun, June 11, 2023
9:30 a.m.   Worship   YouTube Link for this Sunday is:
https://youtube.com/live/_8qMdqXAQZc?feature=share
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation—High School (Room 24)   Adult Classes: Agape Class meets in the nursery; Catacombs (Rm B5) ; Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21) Seekers (Rm 28)
Mon., June 19, 2023—Juneteenth is a holiday for the church staff; building will be locked and office will be closed
Tue., June 20, 2023
11 a.m. Staff meeting in Room 14
Wed., June 21, 2023
7 p.m.   Senior High Youth Group
Thurs., June 22, 2023
3:30 p.m. Bethel College Women’s Association Executive Group meets in Fellowship Hall
7 p.m.        Deacon Commission meets in Room 14
7 p.m.        Hospitality Commission meets in Fellowship Hall
Sun., June 25, 2023
9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz; June birthday recognition
3 p.m. Program in Fellowship Hall with John Stoesz. John Stoesz will talk about the “Repair Network Project” in Mountain Lake, MN

Pastor Nathan Koontz will be on vacation June 19-24.
Congregational Care Coordinator Elizabeth Schmidt will be on vacation June 24-30.

Roger’s Whereabouts : Roger will be returning to Topeka this afternoon, June 18. He will be back at BCMC next Sunday, June 25, for worship and to attend the Casa Betania 15th Anniversary Celebration at First Mennonite Church. He will stay for the regular BCMC staff meeting on Monday, then drive back to Topeka Monday afternoon, June 26. Roger checks his email and phone messages regularly for messages, so feel free to contact him via email or text while he is in Topeka.

Care Connections Opportunity: Volunteers are needed to provide transportation for BCMCers to medical appointments, including appointments in Wichita. If you’re available and can provide loving care for one another in this way at this time, please call Elizabeth at the church office, or send an email to elizabeth@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org. “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35 ESV)

BCMC Pride Month Activities
June is Pride month for LGBTQIA persons and our church plans to celebrate and raise awareness for those who identify as LGBTQIA in the following ways.
-Pride banners are hung outside our church building during the month of June. Thanks to Oscar Gonzalez, Graphic Design Coordinator at Bethel College, for his design!
-Nathan Koontz of BCMC represented the local Supportive Communities Network (SCN) during worship at Faith Mennonite as they celebrated joining SCN. SCN is part of the Brethren Mennonite Council for LGBT Interests. Local SCN congregations include BCMC, Shalom, New Creation, and Lorraine Avenue.
-This month the Bethel College Mennonite Church Inclusion Task Group sent a letter to the Mennonite Central Committee encouraging them to eliminate their discriminatory policies towards LGBTQIA persons. If you would like to learn more about MCC’s lifestyle policy (HR 152) and our letter, please contact Karen Ediger, John Kliewer, Nathan Koontz, or Karen Penner of the Inclusion Task Group.
-The congregation is invited to join in various Wichita Pride activities throughout the month of June. Go to the wichitapride.org website for more details. Of special note is the Pride Parade on June 25. The route will begin at the Old Courthouse and end at Century II.

THE premier handbell choir Rezound! out of Kansas City will be performing June 18, 7 p.m. at Calvary United Methodist Church, 2525 N. Rock Rd., Wichita.

Casa Betania’s 15th Anniversary

CASA BETANIA is inviting people from sister congregations to a 15^th anniversary service on Sunday, June 25, at 4:00 p.m. in the First Mennonite sanctuary where Casa Betania worships. After the service there will be a time of fellowship with a meal. Casa Betania will provide the main dishes and an anniversary cake. Guests do not need to bring food, but those who would like to bring something are welcome to share a salad or fruit.

Congratulations to BCMC, May was a great month financially! For the 2^nd consecutive month we have had a positive monetary balance. With continued effort in June, we will enter the 2^nd half of the year in a strong financial position. Finance Committee

BCMC Offering for June 4, 2023: General Fund $4,032.33; Living Stones $200.
June 11, 2023: General Fund $6,040; Caring Fund $250; Living Stones $250; Esther Thieszen Memorial $150; Kitchen Fund $17.

The Library Theme for June and July are Library Committee suggestions for Everybody/Junior books for the summer reading contest. As has already been noted, this contest is for any student who checks out a book from our library, reads it independently, reads it with someone or someone reads it to a student, and then returns it. We are excited to see how many books will be purchased for New Hope Shelter. —The Library Committee

MCC School Kit Challenge: Notebooks and pencils are treasures for families around the world who have been forced to flee their homes or struggle to afford basic school supplies. Without these items, many kids in places like Syria, Ukraine and South Sudan can’t get the education they desperately need. Enter, the School Kit Challenge: 10,000 school kits to help 10,000 kids during the month of August. Plus, we’ve got a fun activity for Sunday School and VBS students! Download our free School Kit Challenge activity resource full of challenges for kids to learn how school supplies help children receive a tangible message of God’s love. To learn more about this challenge and to download this free guide, visit mcc.org/school-kit-challenge.

Kauffman Museum is offering an intergenerational Uncle Carl’s Camp called “Pottery Possibilities,” July 10-14 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. on the Bethel campus. Campers will start with hand-building before throwing on potter’s wheels, and wrap up the week with glazing and an outdoor firing (weather permitting). Completed artwork may be picked up at a later date. No previous experience is required. To sign up or to explore other Uncle Carl’s Camp offerings, stop by Kauffman Museum (27th & North Main, North Newton) to pick up a brochure or visit https://kauffmanmuseum.org/uncle-carls-camp/

A Gift for You–The WDC Resource Library summer reading program for all ages includes a gift for you. Stop by the library from May 30-August 10 to pick out a wrapped package and a response sheet or request one be mailed to you. The book/DVD/resource inside is yours to keep. Fill out a response sheet and return to the library for a ticket into the prize drawing (gift cards for teens/adults and a prize bag for kids). The WDC Resource Library is located at 2517 N Main in North Newton. For questions and mailing requests, email crlib@mennowdc.org

You are invitied to the Harvey County Circle of Hope Graduation, Tue., June 20, at the First United Methodist Church, 801 N. Main, Newton. Dinner is 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. and the Graduation Ceremony is 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Childcare is available. Come see how your gift to Circle of Hope impacts lives throughout our community.

Are you looking for a meaningful volunteer opportunity? New Hope Shelter would happily welcome you. BCMC needs to send 2 volunteers every evening for a week every 9 weeks, and you would be asked if you could serve one of those evenings. But a commitment every 9 weeks is not required. There is a volunteer training June 15 at 7:30. Please contact Valetta Seymour if you are interested or have questions: seymour2314@gmail.com or 620-217-7536. There will be refresher volunteer training on June 22 at 7:30 for those who want to brush up on their volunteer knowledge.
Current donation needs for New Hope:
Lunch meat, sliced cheese, Miracle Whip, salad dressings, milk, pancake syrup, peanut butter and jelly. Paper towels, napkins, toilet paper, saran wrap, sandwich bags, masking tape.

To: WDC church members and friends:
Join us for the WDC Annual Assembly! It’s not just for church leaders! It’s for everybody! August 11-13, 2023 at Tabor Mennonite Church, Newton, KS, we’ll worship, work, eat great, local food, enjoy local music, connect with new and old friends, experience faith formation for all ages, and have many choices of great workshops. We hope you’ll agree Annual Assembly is a great place to learn about and grow in faith in Christ, care for the broader church, and worship our God of love and justice with God’s people in Western District Conference!

Assembly Theme: We will explore listening to God and to each other through our theme, “Holy (Wholly) Listening.” We will stretch ourselves to listen carefully to one another as siblings in Christ who understand scripture differently and can widen our cultural, racial, and identity perspectives as we focus on faith in Christ together. As we hear the concerns and joys of all of us in Western District Conference, we will explore what it means to respond to one another with God’s mercy and justice. Our scripture texts that will guide us are Isaiah 51:1-8 and Numbers 27:1-11.

Two Tracks: This year we’ll have two different “tracks” going on at the same time. The Delegate Track is for those who are sent to Assembly as church representatives to help make decisions on behalf of our conference. The Faith Formation Track is for everybody else (except kids 3 and under). MennoMedia representatives will lead adults, youth, and school aged kids in a fun, creative multigenerational faith formation experience. Yes, there will be games, art, drama, music, bible stories, conversation and more for all ages together! Don’t want to join an active game? Are you wiggly and want more action? There will be fun options and choices available as we learn about following Jesus together. We hope that this experience will encourage you to bring “multigenerational faith formation” home to your congregation as a model to explore.

In-Person Registration is all-inclusive (except for housing)! Your adult registration of $95 includes Saturday continental breakfast, lunch, BBQ supper and snacks, as well as access to workshops, worship and the delegate session or multigenerational faith formation. (If you are a credentialed minister or minister’s immediate family, it includes Friday Appreciation Banquet, too.) Children’s registration (ages 4 to 12) is $45 each. There are scholarships available for those with limited resources. Email wdc@mennowdc.org to request a scholarship.

Assembly Housing Options: Hotel Option: Use the link: https://www.choicehotels.com/groups and type in Group Code: GS27W7 to reserve a room in our reserved block at Comfort Inn and Suites, 1205 E 1st St, Newton, KS 67114, to get the Assembly discount. In-home option: If you would like to be paired with a local family for an in-home stay, please mark that on your registration. If you are willing to host people in your home, please mark that on your registration form. You are also welcome to make your own housing arrangements. If so, please mark that on your registration form.

Virtual Registration of $40 each gives you access to all worship services, virtual or hybrid workshops, and the delegate sessions with Spanish and English interpretation. If your congregation plans to host a “watch party” with everyone joining on one device, please consider sending a group donation (suggestion: $300/group). (virtual delegates must each have their own device). Thank you.

For more assembly information visit: https://mennowdc.org/2023-wdc-annual-assembly/

REGISTRATION is now OPEN! REGISTER HERE

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

Staff position opening: Western District Conference seeks a quarter-time Fund Development Coordinator beginning July 2023 to cultivate donor relationships and congregational giving, promote planned giving, and generate creative fundraising initiatives. Qualifications include communication, fund-raising and development skills. Position description and application form at https://mennowdc.org/employment/. Please submit application and letter of interest to heidirk@mennowdc.org.
Staff position opening: Western District Conference seeks a half-time Business Manager beginning July 10, at WDC’s North Newton, KS, office (some remote work possible). Responsibilities include financial management, bookkeeping, reporting and payroll. Qualifications include organizational, computer and communication skills, bookkeeping or accounting experience, and willingness to support WDC’s mission and priorities. For position description and application form, see https://mennowdc.org/employment/. Interested applicants please submit application form and letter of interest to the Conference Minister at heidirk@mennowdc.org.

For Mennonite Central Committee In Touch press
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press hereFor another issue of Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

For Mennonite Men “Engage” press here

For Mennonite Creation Care Network press here

For Anabaptist Disabilities Network press here
For Anabaptist Disabilities Network Newsletter “Connections” press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
#BeTransformed
When Seattle Mennonite Church (SMC) purchased a house in what a member of the church property team described as “a pretty undesirable part of town” about 45 years ago, the Mennonite Church USA congregation never dreamed it would accrue a worth of $2 million. But that’s what happened – and they gave the house away, no strings attached. Read the story here: mennoniteusa.org/news/seattle-redistribution

Menno Snapshots
Melanie Springer Mock, author of “Finding Our Way Forward: When the Children We Love Become Adults,” reflects on her experience releasing her sons into adulthood in her recent Menno Snapshots blog. Her book is the CommonRead selection for April-June. CommonRead is an initiative of MennoMedia and Mennonite Church USA Executive Board. Read Springer Mock’s blog here: mennoniteusa.org/finding-way-forward

As part of Mennonite Church USA’s “I choose to be Mennonite because …” blog series, Nathan Perrin, an emerging writer and pastor of Christian formation, Lombard (Illinois) Mennonite Church, shares about his experience reconciling his Quaker background and his Anabaptist theology here: mennoniteusa.org/friendly-mennonite

“Whether you call them actions, traditions or rituals, congregations, much like nuclear families, have ways of celebrating, mourning or remembering together that act as treasured ways of being family,” reflects Leslie James of Hope Mennonite Church. Read more about how Hope Mennonite Church honored their late pastor in her blog: mennoniteusa.org/beyond-words

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Robin Gingerich, who has served in administrative and academic capacities at LCC International University in Lithuania since 2001. Pray for her as she builds relationships with students, faculty and staff from around the world.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for pastoral candidates, and for pastoral search committees in WDC congregations, as they discern the guidance of the Holy Spirit for future ministerial leadership.

Announcements for June 4-11, 2023

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL SUNDAY AT BCMC – JUNE 4, 2023

VBS met at BCMC this week from 5:30-7:30 p.m.. Our kids learned how they can be change makers as their hearts and lives are changed as they trust in the good news of Jesus.

TONIGHT, Friday June 2 –Please join us at 6 p.m., for a community concert being held at BCMC with a free will donation going towards Camp Mennoscah’s matching grant.

You’re invited to Selah’s Song, Friday, June 2 at 6:00 pm at Bethel College Mennonite Church, North Newton, KS. Presented by Theatre of the Beat from Toronto, and hosted by Newton Mennonite VBS. Admission by donation will support Camp Mennoscah.
About the show:

Written by Johnny Wideman, with original music by beloved Mennonite musician Bryan Moyer Suderman, Selah’s Song tells the story of a young girl whose courage inspired a village and whose song became an anthem for peace. Inundated with catchy pro-war propaganda songs, Selah is inspired to share her own music with the village, creating some competition for the King. Selah’s Song is a heartwarming musical that is fun for all ages! We hope to see you there.

SUNDAY JUNE 4 WORSHIP SERVICE AT BCMC

Due to possible inclement weather for Sunday morning, the Vacation Bible School service will be held in the sanctuary at Bethel College Mennonite Church at 10:00 am. We welcome all who would like to attend in person! Following the service, there will be a potluck outside on the lawn (weather permitting) or downstairs in the Fellowship Hall (if it is raining). Please bring a food item to share and table service. Drinks will be provided.

The service on Sunday will be streamed through BCMC on the following link: https://youtube.com/live/IfJd1W4L4po?feature=share

Roger Neufeld Smith’s Whereabouts
Roger will be in Newton until Monday afternoon, June 5.

Judy Friesen would like to invite church members to come share her space in the country with a potluck, today June 11, starting at 6 p.m. Sloppy joes, drink and table service provided. Space to roam and visit as well as eat. 2101 W Dutch Ave. North on Hwy 15 to Hesston Road (Dutch Av), and 3/4 mile west.

Save the Date! There will be an orientation for new commission, board, and committee members on June 18 during the Sunday School hour. Please place this event on your calendars and look for further details coming soon. Continuing members of groups need not attend this orientation, although all those interested are welcome.

We offer sympathy to Robert Carlson and family on the death of Robert’s wife, Phyllis, May 29, 2023 at Overland Park, Kansas. The memorial service for Phyllis will be Saturday, June 10 at 11 a.m. at Rainbow Mennonite Church, 1444 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, KS 66103.
The service will be livestreamed:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6aQzyYF0quBZBz1a-OJksg

We offer sympathy to Dianne Epp and family on the death of her sister-in-law Rebecca (Becky) Janice Epp Bartel on May 27 in Roeland Park, Kansas. The memorial service for Becky will be Saturday, July 29, 11 a.m. at Rainbow Mennonite Church.

For Becky’s obituary press here

BCMC Pride Month Activities
June is Pride month for LGBTQIA persons and our church plans to celebrate and raise awareness for those who identify as LGBTQIA in the following ways.
–Pride banners will be hung outside our church building during the month of June. Thanks to Oscar Gonzalez, Graphic Design Coordinator at Bethel College, for his design!
-Nathan Koontz of BCMC will represent the local Supportive Communities Network (SCN) during worship at Faith Mennonite as they celebrate joining SCN. SCN is part of the Brethren Mennonite Council for LGBT Interests. Local SCN congregations include BCMC, Shalom, New Creation, and Lorraine Avenue.
-In early June, the Bethel College Mennonite Church Inclusion Task Group will be sending a letter to the Mennonite Central Committee encouraging them to eliminate their discriminatory policies towards LGBTQIA persons. If you would like to learn more about MCC’s lifestyle policy (HR 152) and our letter, please contact Karen Ediger, John Kliewer, Nathan Koontz, or Karen Penner of the Inclusion Task Group.
-The congregation is invited to join in various Wichita Pride activities throughout the month of June. Go to the wichitapride.org website for more details. Of special note is the Pride Parade on June 25. The route will begin at the Old Courthouse and end at Century II.

Kauffman Museum is offering an intergenerational Uncle Carl’s Camp called “Pottery Possibilities,” July 10-14 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. on the Bethel campus. Campers will start with hand-building before throwing on potter’s wheels, and wrap up the week with glazing and an outdoor firing (weather permitting). Completed artwork may be picked up at a later date. No previous experience is required. To sign up or to explore other Uncle Carl’s Camp offerings, stop by Kauffman Museum (27th & North Main, North Newton) to pick up a brochure or visit https://kauffmanmuseum.org/uncle-carls-camp/

Mennonite Central Committee School Kit Challenge: Notebooks and pencils are treasures for families around the world who have been forced to flee their homes or struggle to afford basic school supplies. Without these items, many kids in places like Syria, Ukraine and South Sudan can’t get the education they desperately need. Enter, the School Kit Challenge: 10,000 school kits to help 10,000 kids during the month of August. Plus, we’ve got a fun activity for Sunday School and VBS students! Download our free School Kit Challenge activity resource full of challenges for kids to learn how school supplies help children receive a tangible message of God’s love. To learn more about this challenge and to download this free guide, visit mcc.org/school-kit-challenge.

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

A nurse isneeded for First Camp, June 15-17. A nurse is a safety requirement for our summer youth camps. Do you know anyone who can help out? The camp runs from Thursday late afternoon to Saturday morning. As a nurse, your work to keep everyone healthy and well means campers and staff are ready to play and learn during their time at camp. Nurses must be a registered nurse (RN). Nurses receive either a stipend or a camper discount up to full camp fees. Contact us at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.

Other events and happenings:

Registration for the Fall Scrapbook and Crafts Retreats is open. The retreats are scheduled for Nov. 3-5 and Nov. 10-12. All retreat activities will happen at the Main Camp facilities with cropping and crafts in the dining hall and lodging in the bunkhouses. (The Retreat Center will be undergoing HVAC renovations.) Single rooms are not available. Contact us at 620-297-3290 with questions or issues. We’ll see you in the fall!
Click to register! Summer youth camps start June 4. Registrations are still being accepted. The summer theme is FruitFULL Faith. Get ready to learn and sing about the Fruit of the Spirit this summer–it’s not a coconut!
Just want to let you know that things will look different! The landscaping around the Retreat Center will be removed in preparation for the replacement of the HVAC system at the Retreat Center and to meet code. There is not a firm timeline when this will start. New landscaping will be determined at a later time.
Some scholarship funds are still available. These scholarship funds are to assist campers who might not otherwise be able to attend a week of camp. To request scholarship funds, complete the online form. Questions can be directed to olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.

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

Staff position opening: Western District Conference seeks a half-time Business Manager beginning July 10, at WDC’s North Newton, KS, office (some remote work possible). Responsibilities include financial management, bookkeeping, reporting and payroll. Qualifications include organizational, computer and communication skills, bookkeeping or accounting experience, and willingness to support WDC’s mission and priorities. For position description and application form, see https://mennowdc.org/wdc-staff-position-opening/. Interested applicants please submit application form and letter of interest to the Conference Minister at heidirk@mennowdc.org.

2023 WDC Annual Assembly – Let’s grow in faith together! Ever considered multigenerational faith formation in your congregation? Come experience faith formation for all ages. Nursery available for 3 and under. WDC Annual Assembly registration for your whole family or youth group opening soon!

A Gift for You–The WDC Resource Library summer reading program for all ages includes a gift for you. Stop by the library from May 30-August 10 to pick out a wrapped package and a response sheet or request one be mailed to you. The book/DVD/resource inside is yours to keep. Fill out a response sheet and return to the library for a ticket into the prize drawing (gift cards for teens/adults and a prize bag for kids). The WDC Resource Library is located at 2517 N Main in North Newton. For questions and mailing requests, email crlib@mennowdc.org

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here
For Anabaptist Disabilities Network press here
For Mennonite World Conference press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Join us for “Delegate Assembly 2023: Know Before You Go, Part II,” an informational Zoom webinar on Thursday, June 15 at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. Leaders from MC USA, Everence and MHS Association will discuss the proposed organizational resolutions for the upcoming Delegate Assembly in Kansas City. Delegates and nondelegates are welcome to attend. Register and submit your questions here: mennoniteusa.org/da23-webinar

Mennonite Church USA strives to live into its Accessibility Resolution at MennoCon23 by removing barriers to make people of all abilities and needs feel welcome. MennoCon23, the denomination’s leading faith formation event, will take place in Kansas City, Missouri, July 3-6. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/mennocon23-accessible

#BeTransformed
“Pastoral transitions are a natural part of congregational life. At some point, your pastor will leave. They will leave for all sorts of reasons, and the majority of reasons have nothing to do with the congregation,” writes Rachel Ringenberg Miller, denominational minister for ministerial leadership for Mennonite Church USA, in her helpful blog about next steps: mennoniteusa.org/pastoral-transition-beauty

#MennoCon23
Hugo Saucedo, a longtime MennoCon volunteer, attended his first convention in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1993. “I was 16 years old, when my youth group drove from Brownsville, Texas, to Philadelphia. In spite of the long drive, the memories I made have stayed with me to this day.” Read more about Hugo’s experience here: mennoniteusa.org/mennocon23-mennonite-reunion

There is still time to register online for MennoCon23, Mennonite Church USA’s leading faith formation event, in Kansas City (Missouri) Convention Center, July 3-6, 2023. Registration is also still open for the Youth & Young Adult Climate Summit, July 7, and the Delegate Assembly, July 7-8. Register here: mennoniteusa.org/registration

Prayer Request from Mennonite Mission Network: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayers for all participants in Mennonite Voluntary Service and Service Adventure, as they bring closure to their assignments in the coming weeks. Pray for these young adults as they discern God’s leadings and as they integrate what they have learned and experienced into the next seasons of their lives.

Prayer Request from Western District Conference: Give thanks for WDC congregations hosting vacation Bible school and other summer programs for children and youth in their communities.

Announcements for May 28-June 4, 2023

Worship Service for May 28, 2023

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
Pentecost Sunday
May 28, 2023

Prelude—Hymn Preludes by J. Harold Moyer—Karen Schlabaugh
                Be Thou My Vision
                 Beach Spring

Christ Candle Lighting

Welcome and Prayer—Dorothy Nickel Friesen

*Hymn—Holy Spirit, Come with Power—VT 57

Children’s Conversation—Esther Eash

Kin-dom Report—Community Playschool—Jeanette Leary, Cliff Dick

Scripture Reading—Acts 2:1-4,14,22-24,36-47—Lucy Burch and Emma Gering

Sermon—Pentecost, Communion and Peace— Roger Neufeld Smith

*Hymn—Let the Hungry Come to Me—VT 459

Communion
Preparation for Communion
Prayer of Thanksgiving
Pledge of Love VT 937
(congregational response “By the grace of God, I will”)
Words of Institution
Receiving the Bread and Cup
Prayer of Blessing

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—We Are People of God’s Peace—VT 797
People with May birthdays come forward for a blessing, please bring a hymnal.

Benediction

Postlude—Toccata in E Minor (Johann Pachelbel)—Karen Schlabaugh

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

YouTube Link:  https://youtube.com/live/EwmlcD5jOJk?feature=share

Sunday, May 21, 2023, during the worship service, BCMC welcomed eight new members: Calvin Flickinger, Ron Flickinger, Janet Friesen, Lauren Friesen, Judy Harder, Keith Harder, Jim Juhnke, Miriam Nofsinger.

To read their faith statements press here.

This Week at BCMC: May 21-28, 2023

Sun, May 28, 2023—Pentecost Sunday
9:30 a.m.   Worship   YouTube Link for this Sunday is:
https://youtube.com/live/EwmlcD5jOJk?feature=share
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation—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., May 29, 2023—Memorial Day—Church Office will be closed
Tue., May 30, 2023—Vacation Bible School at BCMC
5:30 to 7:30 p.m. VBS in various classrooms and Fellowship Hall at BCMC
Wed., May 31, 2023
5:30 to 7:30 p.m. VBS in various classrooms and Fellowship Hall at BCMC
6 p.m.    Indigenous Justice Task Group meets in Room 14
7 p.m.   Senior High Youth Group
Thurs., June 1, 2023
10 a.m. Staff meeting in Room 14
4 p.m.    Staff Congregational Relations Committee meeting in Room 14
5:30 to 7:30 p.m. VBS in various classrooms and Fellowship Hall at BCMC
7 p.m.     Church Board meeting in Room 14
Fri., June 2, 2023
5:30 to 7:30 p.m. VBS in various classrooms and Fellowship Hall at BCMC
Come see a Play, Friday, June 2 at VBS! From 6-7:30 at BCMC! ALL are invited to a performance of Selah’s Song, a play about a young girl in Ukraine who inspires her community with a song of Peace. This play is suitable for all ages and we hope you can join! Presented by Theatre of the Beat, a touring company based in Toronto.

Sun., June 4, 2023—Vacation Bible School Sunday—Worship Service on the Bethel College Lawn All participating churches will come together for a joint VBS worship service. The children will showcase the songs they learned during VBS and take part in enjoyable activities. The service will be live streamed on the First Mennonite Church channel starting at 10 a.m. A potluck will follow the service. Please bring chairs, table service, and a food item to share. Drinks will be provided. Join in a gathering of love, faith, and community, creating cherished memories together.

The First Mennonite live-stream can be viewed at first mennonite newton.org, at the First Mennonite YouTube channel, YouTube.com/@firstmennonitechurchnewton7575, or at the First Mennonite Newton Facebook page. The stream starts 20 minutes before the service.

Newton Public Library will be hosting a screening and discussion of the film Women Talking this Saturday, May 27, at 2:00 pm in the Bessmer Room. The movie, released in 2022, is based on real life events and the 2018 book by Miriam Toews, in which the women of an isolated Mennonite colony reveal a shocking secret about the colony’s men. The brutal truth comes out and the women talk about their new situation as they grapple with their faith and decide whether to do nothing, stay and fight, or leave. Pastor Willmar Harder of Buhler Mennonite Church and his wife Hannah Neufeld will facilitate a discussion following the movie for those who would like to stay. With their firsthand knowledge from serving as co-coordinators of the Low German Mennonite Program of MCC Bolivia, we hope to shed some light on the fact and fiction between actual events, the film, and the book. May is Women’s Health Month and Mental Health Awareness Month, so we hope this event will help people process their thoughts and be a starting point for a healthy discussion. This movie is rated PG-13 for mature thematic content and runs 1 hour, 44 minutes.

Pastor Nathan Koontz will be on vacation May 26-31.

Monica Lichti will be on vacation June 5-9. The church office will be open in the mornings of that week and closed in the afternoons.

Roger’s Whereabouts : Roger will be in Newton until May 29. He will be driving back to Topeka Monday night, but will return to Newton Thursday morning, June 1.

BCMC Offering for May 21, 2023: General Fund $4,890; Community Play School $500; Living Stones $415; Mennonite Camp Scholarship $100; Women’s Fellowship $240; Esther Thieszen Memorial $1,080.

Community Playschool, Inc. has recently completed our 56th school year! Twenty-two children of the Newton community participated in the program this year at a minimal cost to their families, thanks to five area sponsoring churches. We again want to thank BCMC for being one of those supporting churches through monetary donations, the use of the facilities, secretarial and custodial services and a welcoming attitude toward our program. It is nice to have a home here! We also are grateful for the matching grant that we received from this church through the Everence Sharing Fund. I want to acknowledge the service of Cliff Dick as BCMC’s representative on our board, also serving as treasurer. Barb Voran, Stahli Claassen, Vernabelle Stayrook, and Cynthia Linscheid, served respectively as teacher, helper, and substitutes this year. These volunteers help make it possible for us to continue to provide an affordable preschool experience to families who need it most. A big thanks to Monica Lichti for her extra duties related to our being housed here at BCMC! An organization such as ours relies heavily on volunteer workers to keep our costs to a minimum. As many of our volunteers have retired from our program and as we look ahead to the next school year, we know that we need more volunteer helpers to be able to provide the attentive relationships and safe environment that we have always sought to maintain for our children and families. As members of a sponsoring church, we hope that you might consider whether you could help us out and become a one or two day a week helper for the coming school year. These volunteer positions have not only helped the children we serve but have also proved to be a rewarding experience for many of our adult helpers. Please give your church representative or us a call if you would like to have more information about our program and the opportunities that we have for you! We solicit your prayers and continued support for the future of our organization. With gratitude, Co- Directors, Kasey Newell (316 772-3350) and Jeanette Leary (316 217-2548)

Children and Youth of BCMC: Read a book. Earn a Book. This summer, you can earn a book for the New Hope Shelter for each book checked out, read, and returned. Visit the table outside the door to the children’s room of the BCMC church library for more information. The challenge is to fill a whole shelf of books for homeless children and youth.
The Library Theme for June and July are Library Committee suggestions for Everybody/Junior books for the summer reading contest. As has already been noted, this contest is for any student who checks out a book from our library, reads it independently, reads it with someone or someone reads it to a student, and then returns it. We are excited to see how many books will be purchased for New Hope Shelter. —The Library Committee

BCMC Pride Month Activities
June is Pride month for LGBTQIA persons and our church plans to celebrate and raise awareness for those who identify as LGBTQIA in the following ways.
-Oscar Gonzalez, Graphic Design Coordinator at Bethel College, has created Pride banners that will be hung outside our church building during the month of June. Thanks Oscar!
-The congregation is invited to join in various Wichita Pride activities throughout the month of June. Go to the wichitapride.org website for more details. Of special note is the Unity March on June 25. It will begin around 10 at the Old Town Square and end at Hyde Park with a lunch in the park to follow.
-Nathan Koontz of BCMC will represent the local Supportive Communities Network (SCN) during worship at Faith Mennonite as they celebrate joining SCN. SCN is part of the Brethren Mennonite Council for LGBT Interests. Local SCN congregations include BCMC, Shalom, New Creation, and Lorraine Avenue.
-In early June, the Bethel College Mennonite Church Inclusion Task Group will be sending a letter to the Mennonite Central Committee encouraging them to eliminate their discriminatory policies towards LGBTQIA persons. If you would like to learn more about MCC’s lifestyle policy (HR 152) and our letter, please contact Karen Ediger, John Kliewer, Nathan Koontz, or Karen Penner of the Inclusion Task Group.

Rejoice Devotional Subscriptions
For those of you who are currently subscribed to the Rejoice Devotional Magazine, the last issue for this year (June-July-August) is in your mailboxes here at church. To renew for the coming year (or if you wish to join as a new subscriber) please drop a check in the offering plate for $34.11 (in the memo line put “Rejoice” subscription), or mail your check to the church at PO Box 364, North Newton, KS, 67117, or bring to the church office by May 31.

Judy Friesen would like to invite church members to come share her space in the country with a potluck Sunday, June 11, starting at 6:00 pm. Sloppy joes, drink and table service provided. Space to roam and visit as well as eat. 2101 W Dutch Ave. North on Hwy 15 to Hesston Road (Dutch Av), and 3/4 mile west.

Are you looking for a meaningful volunteer opportunity? New Hope Shelter would happily welcome you. BCMC needs to send 2 volunteers every evening for a week every 9 weeks, and you would be asked if you could serve one of those evenings. But a commitment every 9 weeks is not required. There is a volunteer training June 15 at 7:30. Please contact Valetta Seymour if you are interested or have questions: seymour2314@gmail.com or 620-217-7536. There will be refresher volunteer training on June 22 at 7:30 for those who want to brush up on their volunteer knowledge.

Current donation needs for New Hope:

Lunch meat, sliced cheese, Miracle Whip, salad dressings, milk, pancake syrup, peanut butter and jelly. Paper towels, napkins, toilet paper, saran wrap, sandwich bags, masking tape.

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

Instead of a traditional Summer Story Hour, the WDC Conference Resource Library will be hosting Story Days with a self-guided, come-and-go approach with activities for ages 3-8 and their caregiver(s) on June 15, July 20 & August 3 from 9:00am-7:30pm. Read alouds by library staff/volunteers on the hour from 9am-7pm. The WDC Resource Library is located at 2517 N Main in North Newton.

Staff position opening: Western District Conference seeks a half-time Business Manager beginning July 10, at WDC’s North Newton, KS, office (some remote work possible). Responsibilities include financial management, bookkeeping, reporting and payroll. Qualifications include organizational, computer and communication skills, bookkeeping or accounting experience, and willingness to support WDC’s mission and priorities. For position description and application form visit: https://mennowdc.org/wdc-staff-position-opening/. Interested applicants please submit application form and letter of interest to the Conference Minister at heidirk@mennowdc.org.

The Newton Et Cetera Shop is taking applications for our full-time Retail Manager position. Job descriptions and applications can be picked up at the shop, 619 Main Street, Newton KS, 67114; phone 316-283-9461.

(Sun., May 28) – Last day to visit the special exhibition at Kauffman Museum , “Reeds & Wool: Patterned Screens of Central Asia.” Hours are 1:30-4:30 p.m., with a small admission charge for non-museum members.
Sat., June 3 – The public is invited to Walk Sand Creek Trail Day, part of National Trails Day®. Water will be available for people and leashed dogs at the trailhead at Memorial Grove on the Bethel College campus, dawn to dusk (6 a.m.-8 p.m.), courtesy of the Sand Creek Trail Committee, with members there to answer any questions about the trail and its history. This is the 25th anniversary of Sand Creek Trail as an organized and maintained trail.
Sat., June 3 – Kauffman Museum bird walk, 7 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).

Register now for the Restorative Kansas conference happening June 8-9 at Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence, KS. The conference theme is Growing Restorative Communities: Cultivating Change by Tending our Roots. Hear Keynote Speaker Chief Justice Emeritus Robert Yazzie of Navajo Nation and participate in breakout sessions on indigenous peacemaking; RJ in schools; youth-led efforts; community-based efforts; law enforcement and judicial efforts; and circle process. Enjoy a commissioned street opera entitled “The Return” and lots more. MCC Central States is a sponsor for the 2023 conference. Please join us, find more information and register at www.restorativekansas.org

Everence will hold an informative Medicare webinar Tues., May 30, at 6:30 p.m. Topics will include, when and where to sign up for Medicare, what Medicare does (and doesn’t) cover, Medicare Parts A, B, C and D in clear, understandable language plus budgeting for health care costs in retirement. There will also be time for your questions. Information will be presented by staff from the Everence offices in Central Kansas. To register contact Everence at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com. Attendance recommended for those approaching retirement or those ready to sign up for Medicare.

For Anabaptist Disabilities Network press here
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here
For Mennonite Men press here
For Mennonite Mission Network News from around the world press here

Greetings from Camp Mennoscah!
Attached is the Summer 2023 issue of the Ninnescah News. It’s a short issue with just a taste of some of what Camp Mennoscah embodies.
Included in this issue are:

an article on community found at a friends retreat
the 2023 Summer Staff
the Mission & Maintenance opportunity
a few tidbits to remind you about summer camps and camp merch
We pray that, whatever you do this summer, you are safe and happy. We’ll see you at Camp Mennoscah!

With peace, The Camp Mennoscah staff

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
#MennoCon23
The MennoCon23 worship planning committee has released the names of the worship speakers for the July 3-6 Mennonite Church USA denominational convention, which will take place at the Kansas City (Missouri) Convention Center. The convention’s overall theme is “#BeTransformed,” which is inspired by Isaiah 43:19-21 and 2 Corinthians 5:17. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/mennocon23-worship-speakers

There’s still time to register for MennoCon23, Mennonite Church USA’s leading faith formation event, in Kansas City (Missouri) Convention Center, July 3-6, 2023. Registration is also open for the Youth & Young Adult Climate Summit, July 7, and the Delegate Assembly, July 7-8. Register here: mennoniteusa.org/news/mennocon23-registration

The all-new Youth & Young Adult Climate Summit, taking place on July 7, 2023, directly following Mennonite Church USA’s MennoCon23 convention, will be an opportunity to explore ways that youth and young adults ages 14-25 can put their faith to work to address this crisis during a day of worship, learning and collaboration. Watch an informational Zoom recording here: mennoniteusa.org/webinar-climatesummit

#BeTransformed
When Becky Degan told her husband and teenage son that the theme for MennoCon23 worship is “Transformed by the Spirit,” they broke out with the Transformers’ theme song, “More than meets the eye.” “Later, when I was asked what excites me about this year’s convention, that song went through my head, and I realized that’s what I’m excited about — catching glimpses of the Holy Spirit at work beyond what we can understand or imagine.” Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/worship-is-gods-playground

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Odesa Theological Seminary in Ukraine. Pray that courses on trauma healing will equip church leaders to respond with compassion and skill to the millions of people who have lost loved ones and homes due to Russia’s invasion.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Please pray for those who participated at our “Being the Church: Meeting Our Neighbors Where They Are” conference in Dallas on April 21-22. May their time together encourage them to prayerfully try new things, plant new churches, and take new steps of faith as we invite our neighbors to follow Jesus alongside us. -WDC Church Planting Commission

Announcements for May 21-28, 2023

Worship Service for May 21, 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 belows that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. Anytime after the service concludes, you can watch a recording of the service at your convenience by clicking the same green LIVE 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/pOctfyytlwc?feature=share

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
May 21, 2023
Seventh Sunday of Easter

Prelude—Kum Ba Yah (arr. Behnke)—Chancel Bells; Verlene Garber, director
West Quoddy Sunrise (Bernadine Johnson)—Abby Koontz

Christ Candle Lighting—Adam Robb

Welcome and Prayer

*Hymn—Here in This Place—VT 10

Children’s Conversation
Summer BCMC Library Program—Karen Neufeld
                      Presentation of Hymnals to High School Graduates—Jill Robb
    Alice Claassen, Kat Friesen, Simon Koontz, Ian Voth

Anthem—Ev’ry Time I Feel the Spirit (arr. Linker & McFadden—Chancel Bells

Scripture Reading—John 16:33-17:1-11; Acts 1:6-14

Sermon—Why are you looking toward heaven?—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn of Response—Could It Be That God is Singing—VT 42

Reception of New Members—Elizabeth Schmidt
                                         Calvin Flickinger, Ron Flickinger, Janet Friesen,
Lauren Friesen, Judy Harder, Keith Harder, Jim Juhnke,
Miriam Nofsinger

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Go Now in Peace—VT 835

*Benediction

Postlude—Andante K315 (Mozart)—Lucy Burch

* You are invited to stand
^Bells and congregation sing in unison through once; congregation sings with bells twice in canon. The south side begins, the north side comes in 2nd, and the bells will do a 3rd entry
VT—Voices Together
Keyboard—Verlene Garber
Audio visual—Ken Lamp

Offertory at BCMC
As a way of acknowledging our offertory during our Sunday morning worship, the ushers will bring up the offertory trays to the communion table during the Hymn of Response. Then, as we have already been doing, the worship leader will give thanks for the offering during the Prayers of God’s People.

Congratulations to our BCMC High School Seniors — Alice Claassen, Kat Friesen, Simon Koontz, Ian Voth!

Welcome to new members at BCMC: Calvin Flickinger, Ron Flickinger, Janet Friesen, Lauren Friesen, Judy Harder, Keith Harder, Jim Juhnke, Miriam Nofsinger!

This Week at BCMC: May 21-28, 2023
Sun, May 21, 2023
9:30 a.m.   Worship   YouTube Link for this Sunday is:  https://youtube.com/live/pOctfyytlwc?feature=share

The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:30 a.m. Faith Formation—High School – Room 24    Adult Classes: Agape Class meets in the nursery; Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5) Topic is “Highlights of the Museum—Oriental Institute” by Lauren Friesen; Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21) Seekers (Rm 28)
Mon., May 22, 2023
10 a.m.   Library Committee meeting in Room 14
11 a.m.   Staff meeting in Fellowship Hall
5:30 p.m. Faith Formation meeting in Fellowship Hall
Wed., May 24, 2023
7 p.m.   Senior High Youth Group
Thurs., May 25, 2023
4 p.m. Hospitality Commission meeting in Room 14
7 p.m. Deacon Commission meeting in Room 14
Fri., May 26, 2023
5 p.m. Wedding Rehearsal in the Sanctuary
Sat., May 27, 2023
3:30 p.m. Wedding of Danielle Wellborn and Silas Minkevitch in the
Sanctuary
Sun., May 28, 2023—Pentecost Sunday
9:30 a.m. Worship with sermon by Roger Neufeld Smith; communion will be served; May birthday recognition

Children and Youth of BCMC:  Read a book.  Earn a Book.  This summer, you can earn a book for the New Hope Shelter for each book checked out, read, and returned. Visit the table outside the door to the children’s room of the BCMC church library for more information.  The challenge is to fill a whole shelf of books for homeless children and youth.

BCMC Offering for May 7, 2023:  General Fund $7,163.33; Rejoice $34.11; Church Retreat $1,000; Mennonite Camp Scholarship $181; Esther Thieszen Memorial $100.

Rejoice Devotional Subscriptions
For those of you who are currently subscribed to the Rejoice Devotional Magazine, the last issue for this year (June-July-August) is in your mailboxes here at church. To renew for the coming year (or if you wish to join as a new subscriber) please drop a check in the offering plate for $34.11 (in the memo line put “Rejoice” subscription), or mail your check to the church at PO Box 364, North Newton, KS, 67117, or bring to the church office by May 31.

The Library Theme till the end of May is Women’s History. The Committee has pulled a few of the books available from our collection and is displaying them in back of the library desk or against the south wall in the children’s section. Come check us out!

Come see a Play, Friday, June 2 at VBS! From 6-7:30 on June 2 at BCMC! ALL are invited to a performance of Selah’s Song, a play about a young girl in Ukraine who inspires her community with a song of Peace. This play is suitable for all ages and we hope you can join! Presented by Theatre of the Beat, a touring company based in Toronto.

Roger’s Whereabouts – Roger will be back in Newton on Wednesday, May 24. Roger checks his phone messages and texts daily while he is in Topeka, so feel free to contact him via phone or email.

Congratulations, the April finance numbers are quite favorable. The church raised $340 more in April than it spent in April. This comes as a result of extra effort and hard work on your part. Thank you very much and keep the ball rolling. Finance Committee

(Sun., May 21) – Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum program with Dr. Mary Dusenberry from the University of Kansas, “Of Wool & Silk: Textile Explorations in Central Asia,” 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum auditorium. In conjunction with the current special exhibit “Reeds & Wool: Patterned Screens of Central Asia,” which closes May 28.

Sat., June 3 – The public is invited to Walk Sand Creek Trail Day, part of National Trails Day®. Water will be available for people and leashed dogs at the trailhead at Memorial Grove on the Bethel College campus, dawn to dusk (6 a.m.-8 p.m.), courtesy of the Sand Creek Trail Committee, with members there to answer any questions about the trail.

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

Staff position opening: Western District Conference seeks a half-time Business Manager beginning July 10, at WDC’s North Newton, KS, office (some remote work possible). Responsibilities include financial management, bookkeeping, reporting and payroll. Qualifications include organizational, computer and communication skills, bookkeeping or accounting experience, and willingness to support WDC’s mission and priorities. For position description and application form visit: https://mennowdc.org/wdc-staff-position-opening/. Interested applicants please submit application form and letter of interest to the Conference Minister at heidirk@mennowdc.org.

2023 Western District Conference (WDC) Annual Assembly, “Holy (Wholly) Listening,” August 11-13, 2023, Tabor Mennonite Church, Newton, KS. Listening to God and many voices. Why go? It’s a great chance to join others for creative resourcing, worship, great music and food, and participating in the work of the church. Watch for more information coming soon!

Faith Formation resources for you – The WDC Resource Commission has paid for a subscription for the Vibrant Faith 2023 Masterclass Season Pass of faith formation webinars! Vibrant Faith seeks to transform the way churches envision and design faith formation for all ages and generations in the 21st century. For more details about the webinars, go to: https://vibrantfaith.org/masterclasses/. To access these resources at no cost to you, email Michelle at wdc@mennowdc.org.

Register today for MennoCon23, MC USA’s leading faith formation event July 3-6, the Youth & Young Adult Climate Summit on July 7, and the Delegate Assembly July 7-8.
https://convention.mennoniteusa.org/registration/

Register now for the Restorative Kansas conference happening June 8-9 at Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence, KS. The conference theme is Growing Restorative Communities: Cultivating Change by Tending our Roots. Hear Keynote Speaker Chief Justice Emeritus Robert Yazzie of Navajo Nation and participate in breakout sessions on indigenous peacemaking; RJ in schools; youth-led efforts; community-based efforts; law enforcement and judicial efforts; and circle process. Enjoy a commissioned street opera entitled “The Return” and lots more. MCC Central States is a sponsor for the 2023 conference. Please join us, find more information and register at www.restorativekansas.org.

Greetings!
I’m writing to share about a new special issue of Intersections: MCC Theory and Practice Quarterly, available now on-line here. Compiled by Wade Snowdon and Alain Epp Weaver, this “emerging research” issue features articles by participants in MCC’s one-year YAMEN, IVEP, and SALT programs, with articles exploring MCC work in Bolivia, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Nepal, and Uganda.
As always, we welcome any feedback you have about this or other issues of Intersections! Send any thoughts, affirmations, critiques, and counsel you might have to intersections@mcc.org. Thanks for being a loyal reader!
Warm regards, Alain Epp Weaver

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

We need your toilet paper (rolls)! There is a crafts project this summer needing empty, clean toilet paper rolls or paper towel rolls. Approximately 300 rolls are needed for the full summer. Send them with a camper or someone else coming to camp. We’ll collect them and use them for Junior 1 & 2, Junior High 1 & 2 and Senior High. (If you want to bring full ones, we’d take those, too. We’re not picky.)

Other events and happenings:

Preservation and then destruction! The next Work and Play Day is May 20. Tasks will include staining part of the playground structure in the cooler morning and then it’s time for (careful) destruction of the pipes of the old HVAC system in the Retreat Center.Eight or more people will make great progress possible. Bring a water bottle and meet at the maintenance shed at 8:30am. Camp will provide lunch. If you let us know you are coming, we can be better prepared for lunch. Contact Olivia at 620-297-3290 (landline) or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for details.
Camp Mennoscah is looking for people to provide a “main course” for approx. 12 people during the week of May 29-June 2.Camp will provide the extras for the meal and staff do the meal prep as a team building exercise. If you would like to provide the full meal, wonderful! During this week, summer staff do training for Youth Development, the Staff Handbook, Reducing the Risk of Abuse, and more. This week prepares the staff to create great camp experiences for a summer of campers. Contact Olivia at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for details.
Custodial-housekeeping help is needed at Camp Mennoscah. This is a 10 hours per week position and is paid hourly. The work times are flexible, but must fit within the group and retreat scheduling, which varies from week to week. The position requires an application, references, and background check. Contact Olivia at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for details.
Click to register! Summer youth camp registration is open and Camp Mennoscah is receiving registrations. The summer theme is FruitFULL Faith. Get ready to learn and sing about the Fruit of the Spirit this summer–it’s not a coconut!
Nurse needed for a partial week, July 9-12, Junior High II Camp. As a nurse, you are a vital part of camp life. Your work to keep everyone healthy and well means campers and staff are ready to play and learn during their time at camp. Nurses must be a registered nurse (RN). Nurses receive either a stipend or a camper discount up to full camp fees. Contact us at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.
Just want to let you know that things will look different! The landscaping around the Retreat Center will be removed in preparation for the replacement of the HVAC system at the Retreat Center and to meet code. There is not a firm timeline when this will start. New landscaping will be determined at a later time.
Some scholarship funds are still available. These scholarship funds are to assist campers who might not otherwise be able to attend a week of camp. To request scholarship funds, complete the online form. Questions can be directed to olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.
Got any 5 gallon buckets with or without lids?Camp Mennoscah is looking for 5 gallon buckets with lids for compost. We’ll take lids or the lids and buckets. Contact us at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to figure out pick up or bring them to camp when your church or camper comes.

Everence^® to hold May 30 Medicare webinar
Everence will hold an informative Medicare webinar on Tuesday, May 30, starting at 6:30 p.m. Topics will include, when and where to sign up for Medicare, what Medicare does (and doesn’t) cover, Medicare Parts A, B, C and D in clear, understandable language plus budgeting for health care costs in retirement. There will also be time for your questions.
Information will be presented by staff from the Everence offices in Central Kansas.
To register contact Everence at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com.
Attendance recommended for those approaching retirement or those ready to sign up for Medicare.
Securities offered through Concourse Financial Group Securities, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. Investments and other products are not NCUA or otherwise federally insured, may involve loss of principal and have no credit union guarantee.
Products and services offered through Everence Trust Company and other Everence entities are independent of and are not guaranteed or endorsed by Concourse Financial Group Securities, or its affiliates.

Message from Bethel College
Bethel College Baccalaureate and Commencement are such special events that we like to share with you the following information.
The photos and recording of Baccalaureate/Commencement weekend have been posted on the commencement website at the following link. You are welcome to share this link with others.
www.bethelks.edu/graduation

The Newton Et Cetera Shop is taking applications for our full-time Retail Manager position. Job descriptions and applications can be picked up at the shop, 619 Main Street, Newton KS, 67114; phone 316-283-9461.

Youth ages 12 to 17 are invited to be a Junior Volunteer at Kidron Bethel Village in North Newton or Schowalter Villa in Hesston June 1 through July 28. Junior Volunteers help facilitate activities with residents in health care and/or assisted living, including playing games, reading, going on walks and more. An application is required and must be submitted by May 10. Spaces are limited. Proof of complete COVID-19 vaccination series required. For application, contact 620-327-4821 or shelleyl@bluestemks.org.

The Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale Annual Dinner and Meeting will be Thursday, May 25, 6:00 pm at First Mennonite Church, McPherson. The cost of the meal is $20.00. Please RSVP to Barb BJ Reeves at bj.reeves@live.com or call/text 620-543-6863 by May 21. Come celebrate the success of the MCC Sale!

Peace Connections is hosting Bridges out of Poverty, a free training to be a volunteer for Circle of Hope. The training is a three part workshop on May 5 (2-4 p.m.); June 2 (2-4 p.m.) and July 7 (2-4 p.m.) To RSVP for the workshop or for more information visit www.peaceconnections.org or call 316-284-0000. Harvey County Circle of Hope is a relationship-based initiative that seeks to improve the financial health and well-being of the community and our residents. Circle of Hope connects community volunteers with families ready and willing to begin their journey towards financial stability.

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

For Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level press here

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Marisa Smucker assumed the responsibilities of interim executive director of Mennonite Mission Network in March. Pray for God’s wisdom and strength, as she leads the agency.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for members of boards, councils, deacons and other leadership teams in WDC congregations, as they offer vision and care for the church.

Announcements for May 7-14, 2023

Worship for May 7, 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 belows that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. Anytime after the service concludes, you can watch a recording of the service at your convenience by clicking the same green LIVE 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/8TGAlWAx6gk?feature=share

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
May 7, 2023

Prelude—Will Wiebe-Friesen

Anthem—Come Ye Disconsolate (Terre Johnson); Chancel Choir; Riley King, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist

Christ Candle Lighting

Welcome and Prayer—Jim Robb

Land Acknowledgement—Darlene Dick

*Hymn—Summoned by the God Who Made Us—VT 1

Anthem—In This Still Room (Gwyneth Walker)—Chancel Choir

Children’s Conversation—Megan Kohlman

Anthem—Chancel Choir; Riley King, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist

Scripture Reading—Isaiah 43:16-21; Matthew 13:1-9,44-45,51-52—Ani Koontz and Megan Leary

Sermon—Our Entrepreneurial God—Roger Neufeld Smith

*Hymn—You Are Salt for the Earth—VT 297

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Be a Sower—VT 789—People with April birthdays come forward for a blessing, please bring a hymnal

*Birthday Blessing & Benediction—VT 1050 (congregational response “Jesus, now lead on”)

Choral Benediction—Amen (John Rutter)—Chancel Choir

Postlude—Will Wiebe-Friesen

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

YouTube Link:  https://youtube.com/live/8TGAlWAx6gk?feature=share

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.

In This Still Room by Gwyneth Walker
“And so I find it well to come for deeper rest to this still room
For here the habit of the soul
Feels less the outer world’s control;
For strength of mutual purpose pleads more earnestly our common needs;
And from the silence multiplied
By these still forms on either side,
the world that time and sense have known
Falls off and leaves us God alone.”

The congregational meeting is Sunday, May 7, at 10:45 a.m., during the Sunday school hour, in the Sanctuary. The agenda can be found in the annual program booklet. (There are printed copies available on the ledge between the mailboxes in the Gathering Place.) For those who are tuning in remotely, votes can be texted to (620) 747-0185. The meeting will be live-streamed but will not be recorded.
Agenda items will include approval of new commission, committee, and board members; updates from the Search Committee and Credence Report Task Group; and reports from several task groups and staff.

Congregational Meeting YouTube Link: https://youtube.com/live/Tt1pRkGCfgk?feature=share

Click the link below for a pdf of the Annual Report Booklet.

Annual Report Booklet for June 1, 2022 to May 31, 2023

BCMC Offering for April 30, 2023: General Fund $2,135; Living Stones $50.

This Week at BCMC: May 7-14, 2023
Sun, May 7 2023
9:30 am    Worship   YouTube Link for this Sunday is:  https://youtube.com/live/8TGAlWAx6gk?feature=share
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 am Congregational Meeting in the Sanctuary (No adult Sunday schools this Sunday) YouTube Link:  https://youtube.com/live/Tt1pRkGCfgk?feature=share

7 pm          Bethel College Woven and Open Road Ensemble Groups Concert in the BCMC Sanctuary—All are welcome!

Mon., May 8, 2023
9 am    Women’s Fellowship Executive Board meeting in Fellowship Hall
11 am   Staff meeting in Room 14
Wed., May 10, 2023
7 pm    Senior High Youth Group
7:30 pm   Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the Sanctuary
Thurs., May 11, 2023
4 pm     Creation Care Committee meeting in Room 14
6:30 pm Chancel Bell rehearsal in Room B7
Sun., May 14, 2023—Bethel College Baccalaureate
There will be no worship service at BCMC this Sunday; Bethel College
Baccalaureate will be in Bethel College’s Memorial Hall starting at 10 a.m.—All are invited!
Bethel College Commencement is at 4 p.m. in Thresher Stadium (if rain,
Memorial Hall)

There will be a recognition of BCMC graduating high school seniors and a
reception of new members of BCMC during the worship service on Sunday, May 21.

We offer sympathy to LuAnn Zook, Doug Siemens, Angus and Zoe Siemens and their extended family on the death of LuAnn’s father, Herbert Zook, May 4, 2023 at Schowalter Villa, Hesston.
Herb was a retired professor of Industrial Arts at Hesston College, McPherson College, and Fort Hays State University.
On a side note, Doug said that Herb was one of the pioneers who started the Automobile Restoration Program at McPherson. Saturday, May 6 is the Newton Car Show. “If you have an opportunity to attend please remember this great teacher who loved cars!”

The BCMC Retreat at Camp Mennoscah was last Saturday and Sunday, April 29-30. Two baptisms were celebrated during the worship service on Sunday. Abby Koontz and Ani Koontz were baptized in the Ninnescah River. Following are their faith statements.

Abby Koontz
I am excited to become a member of Bethel College Mennonite Church by choosing baptism and committing to my ongoing faith journey with God. I am grateful for all the support and love this church family has given to me growing up, and I am ready to follow Christ through the acts of love, gratitude, service, and community. Attending church as a child with my parents and grandparents, I have been raised with Mennonite values. Loving others, community, inclusion, servant leadership, and practicing non-violence are values that I have learned in our church and that I believe are important when following Jesus. I strive to incorporate these values into my everyday life and spiritual practices. BCMC has also given me Camp Mennoscah, one of the
places where I find my faith to be the strongest. It is here I feel connected with God through music, nature, and friendship, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be baptized here. Becoming a follower of Christ to me means that you serve your community, have compassion towards the people around you, and that you live your life through God. In times of hope, in times of gratitude, and in harder times when God gives us challenges, it is important to live life through God and turn to prayer as a regular practice. It brings me great joy to become a part of this congregation and continue my faith journey.
Abby is baptized – people in picture are Ani Koontz in background, Kevin Neufeld, and Pastor Nathan Koontz

Ani Koontz
Throughout my life I’ve attended different Mennonite churches and been a part of many different communities that seek to follow Jesus together. One of my earliest memories is crawling around in the pit next to Faith Mennonite Church. When I was six my dad got a job at First Mennonite in Hutchinson. The church became a solid community: one that I didn’t really interact with outside the building, but one that I still loved very much. I remember coming home after my first Sunday there and counting on my fingers how many friends I made: I lost count. I especially loved the kids in my Sunday school class.

Throughout my Hutch time, I wasn’t really able to participate in the Wednesday night activities because of how far away it was. Luckily, BCMC welcomed me with open arms into the choir and youth clubs. I loved my dual church experience, but I sometimes felt disconnected from both. First Mennonite in Hutch had a huge impact on me as a person, but the shift back to BCMC was comforting. I could interact with the BCMC community in ways more than just church on Sunday, and I didn’t have to wake up so early. I love the people around me and the familiar environment that I get to grow in.

Faith has always been an important part of my life and I look forward to following Jesus and working to do good within my community and the world.

Though I’ve been to many different churches, I am so happy to call BCMC my church, my congregation, and my community.
Ani preparing to be baptized. Kevin Neufeld and Pastor Nathan Koontz on either side of her.

Roger’s Whereabouts – Roger will be in Newton until Monday afternoon (May 8). He will be back in Newton on Wednesday, May 24. Roger checks his phone messages and texts daily while he is in Topeka, so feel free to contact him via phone or email.

April Birthdays are NOT forgotten! – We’ve just delayed the usual birthday blessing for April birthdays until this coming Sunday, May 7. We knew that a number of people would not be able to attend worship at Camp Mennoscah last Sunday. So the April Birthday Blessing will be at the end of the worship service this Sunday, May 7.

Please pray for Myron Voran who is recovering from gallbladder removal surgery at NMC Health.

Women’s Fellowship Executive Board meets in Fellowship Hall Monday, May 8 at 9:00 a.m.

VBS Registration
It is time to register for Vacation Bible School. If you have children in Pre-K (4 years) through entering 5th grade this form is for you! Please invite grandchildren and friends to fill out the form so they can attend. We would love to have them! If you have any questions, please email or talk to Jill Robb (jill@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org) or Mary Ellen Hodge (hodge_mar@yahoo.com).

Here is the link to the Registration Form and the QR code.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSepSN8cyMISPivc5JTk2H_FYfqnJJVXO-E_NlmLJwDApBsHTg/viewform

The Library Theme till the end of May is Women’s History. The Committee has pulled a few of the books available from our collection and is displaying them in back of the library desk or against the south wall in the children’s section. Come check us out and be on the look out for a reading contest arriving in May!!

Bethel College Announcements:
· Sun., May 7 – Woven and Open Road joint concert at BCMC, 7 p.m.
· Bethel College commencement weekend is Sat.-Sun., May 13-14. Events: Nurse Pinning Ceremony, 2 p.m., May 13, Krehbiel Auditorium;
Baccalaureate, 10 a.m., and Commencement, 4 p.m., May 14, both in
Memorial Hall.
· Thurs.-Sat., May 18-20 – Pop-up exhibit, “Mennonites in East Germany,” Kauffman Museum (2801 N. Main St., North Newton 67117); hours are 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. weekdays, 1:30-4:30 p.m. weekends. Sat., May 20 – Pastor Bernhard Thiessen from the University of Hamburg will speak on “Mennonite Peace Efforts Under Communist Observation,” 4 p.m. in the museum auditorium.

Youth ages 12 to 17 are invited to be a Junior Volunteer at Kidron Bethel Village in North Newton or Schowalter Villa in Hesston June 1 through July 28. Junior Volunteers help facilitate activities with residents in health care and/or assisted living, including playing games, reading, going on walks and more. An application is required and must be submitted by May 10. Spaces are limited. Proof of complete COVID-19 vaccination series required. For application, contact 620-327-4821 or shelleyl@bluestemks.org.

The Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale Annual Dinner and Meeting will be Thursday, May 25, 6:00 pm at First Mennonite Church, McPherson. The cost of the meal is $20.00. Please RSVP to Barb BJ Reeves at bj.reeves@live.com or call/text 620-543-6863 by May 21. Come celebrate the success of the MCC Sale!

Peace Connections is hosting Bridges out of Poverty, a free training to be a volunteer for Circle of Hope. The training is a three part workshop on May 5 (2-4 p.m.); June 2 (2-4 p.m.) and July 7 (2-4 p.m.) To RSVP for the workshop or for more information visit www.peaceconnections.org or call 316-284-0000. Harvey County Circle of Hope is a relationship-based initiative that seeks to improve the financial health and well-being of the community and our residents. Circle of Hope connects community volunteers with families ready and willing to begin their journey towards financial stability.

Hesston College Announcements

May 12 – Music Recitals

The Performing Arts department at Hesston College will present student recitals on May 12 at 2 and 4 p.m. The recitals will feature Luke Huyard, Sadie Oesch, Jesse Kanagy, Ginny Miller, and Abraham Cadillo Quispe. Join in person at the Black Box Theater or watch the live stream at hesston.edu/livestream.

May 12 – Bel Canto Singers Concert

Bel Canto Singers will perform a concert over commencement weekend Friday, May 12, at 7 p.m. Join in person at Hesston Mennonite Church or watch the live stream at hesston.edu/livestream.

May 13 – Nursing Pinning

Celebrate the accomplishments of the 2023 baccalaureate degree nursing graduates. Join in person at Hesston Mennonite Church or watch the live stream at hesston.edu/pinning-webcast.

May 13 – Theatre Showcase & Student Directed One-Act Play

Acting I and Acting II students will perform monologues and scenes from their work this semester. Immediately following, a short one act play, The Wall: A Pilgrimage, directed by Alexis Driscoll, will feature students from both classes. The show is about a family visiting the Vietnam War Memorial and the feelings each member faces when recalling the soldier they lost. Join in person at the Black Box Theater.

May 13 – Commencement

Riccardo Harris, executive director of Wichita GEAR UP at WSA, will present the commencement address. General seating in the sanctuary will begin at 3:30 p.m. with overflow general seating in the HMC Community Center. Join in person at Hesston Mennonite Church or watch the live stream at hesston.edu/commencement.

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
WDC Book Sale – The Western District Conference Resource Library in North Newton, KS will be hosting a Book Sale on Saturday, May 6 from 8:30am -12:30pm outside in front of the WDC building. There will be a large variety of donated books and books & DVDs removed from circulation. Donations will be accepted for your selections. Hope to see you there!

In Spring 2022, the WDC Executive Board appointed a team to do an anti-racism audit of WDC’s structure, program and policies, as we seek to fulfill WDC’s vision for the church and be faithful to the way of Jesus. The audit process was conducted between April and September 2022, and gathered information to address the questions: How is WDC acting or participating in racist ways? How is WDC supporting efforts to dismantle racism? How could WDC better support efforts to dismantle racism?… Please click below to view the full announcement, the full audit report (now available), and the summary report.

Announcement about Anti-Racism Audit Report – English & Español

WDC Anti-Racism Audit Report Summary – English & Español

WDC Anti-Racism Audit Full Report – English & Español

For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

For Mennonite Central Committee “In Touch” press hereFor Anabaptist Disabilities Network press here

For Newton EtCetera Shop Annual Report press here

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

Custodial-housekeeping help is needed at Camp Mennoscah. This is a 10 hours per week position and is paid hourly. The work times are flexible, but must fit within the group and retreat scheduling, which varies from week to week. The position requires an application, references, and background check. Contact Olivia at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for details.

Other events and happenings:

The next Work and Play Day is May 20! Bring a water bottle and meet at the maintenance shed at 8:30am. Camp will provide lunch. If you let us know you are coming, we can be better prepared for lunch. Contact Olivia at 620-297-3290 (landline) or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for details.
Camp Mennoscah is looking for people to provide a “main course” for approx. 12 people during the week of May 29-June 2.Camp will provide the extras for the meal and staff do the meal prep as a team building exercise. If you would like to provide the full meal, wonderful! During this week, summer staff do training for Youth Development, the Staff Handbook, Reducing the Risk of Abuse, and more. This week prepares the staff to create great camp experiences for a summer of campers. Contact Olivia at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for details.
Just want to let you know that things will look different! The landscaping around the Retreat Center will be removed in preparation for the replacement of the HVAC system at the Retreat Center and to meet code. There is not a firm timeline when this will start. New landscaping will be determined at a later time.
Some scholarship funds are still available. These scholarship funds are to assist campers who might not otherwise be able to attend a week of camp. To request scholarship funds, complete the online form. Questions can be directed to olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.
Nurse needed for a partial week, July 9-12, Junior High II Camp. As a nurse, you are a vital part of camp life. Your work to keep everyone healthy and well means campers and staff are ready to play and learn during their time at camp. Nurses must be a registered nurse (RN). Nurses receive either a stipend or a camper discount up to full camp fees. Contact us at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.
Got any 5 gallon buckets with or without lids?Camp Mennoscah is looking for 5 gallon buckets with lids for compost. We’ll take lids or the lids and buckets. Contact us at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to figure out pick up or bring them to camp when your church or camper comes.
Click to register! Summer youth camp registration is open and Camp Mennoscah is receiving registrations. The summer theme is FruitFULL Faith. Get ready to learn and sing about the Fruit of the Spirit this summer–it’s not a coconut!

Kauffman Museum Upcoming Events

• Upcoming events:
• May 9-14, All Ten Thousand Villages merchandise 20% off in the Museum Store; come pick up a gift for mom for Mother’s Day!
• May 18-20, Pop-up exhibit, “Mennonites in East Germany”
• May 20, 4:00, “Mennonite Peace Efforts under Communist Observation” presented by Pastor Bernhard Thiessen, Chairman, Peace Churches Office, Berlin, Germany
• May 21, 3:00, “Of Wool & Silk: Textile Explorations in Central Asia” presented by Dr. Mary M. Dusenbury, Affiliate Research Curator, Spencer Museum of Art, University of Kansas
• May 28, last day to view the Reeds & Wool: Patterned Screens of Central Asia exhibit
• June 3, 7:00, First Saturday Bird Walk
• Regular museum hours: Tues-Fri 9:30-4:30, Sat & Sun 1:30-4:30, closed Mondays and major holidays

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
On May 1, 2023, Mennonite Church USA will be changing its email address for email marketing communications to EBComm@Communications.MennoniteUSA.org. Read why this is important and get instructions on how to add the new address to your address book here: mennoniteusa.org/notice-new-email

The Mennonite Church USA Executive Board met in Los Angeles on April 13-14, 2023, and voted to forward three proposed organizational resolutions to the Delegate Assembly, including one that recommends shifting the Delegate Assembly to a three-year, or triennial, cycle. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/executive-board-april-meeting. The Constituency Leaders Council provided feedback on the three proposed organizational resolutions at its meeting in San Antonio, Texas, in March. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/clc-looks

#MennoCon23
Online registration is open for MennoCon23, Mennonite Church USA’s leading faith formation event, in Kansas City (Missouri) Convention Center, July 3-6, 2023. Registration is also open for the Youth & Young Adult Climate Summit, July 7, and the Delegate Assembly, July 7-8. Early bird pricing ends on May 14. Register here: convention.mennoniteusa.org/registration

Download a Power Point slide here: mennoniteusa.org/mennocon23-powerpoint
Download a printer-friendly flyer here: mennoniteusa.org/mennocon23-flyer-print

Menno Snapshots
After attending Mennonite Church USA’s Hope for the Future Conference as a Mosaic Mennonite Conference board member, Kiron Mateti, experienced a refreshing sense of belonging within the Mennonite church. He was no longer the only person of color in the room. Read more about his experience here: mennoniteusa.org/finding-seat-at-mennonite-table

The Peace Table is the new Bible story for MennoMedia’s “Shine” elementary curriculum for 2023-26. Get a sneak peek of this exciting new resource during MennoMedia’s webinar on Monday, May 8, 7 p.m. ET. Learn how this book can help you guide children to love Jesus, grow in faith and become peacemakers that change the world by registering here: shinecurriculum.com/webinar

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Alfonsina and José Oyanguren, serving through Mennonite Mission Network, request prayer for the more than 40 people from 15 communities in Argentina’s Chaco region who are helping voice dub the Jesus Film in the Toba Qom language. Pray that those who participate will be led into a deeper understanding of who Jesus is and his love for all people.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for WDC’s Resource Library, and pray that children, youth, adults and ministry leaders would be enriched in faith and discipleship through library resources.

Announcements for April 30 to May 7, 2023

Worship for Sunday, April 30, 2023 at Camp Mennoscah

The BCMC Camp Mennoscah Retreat is here! There will be no worship service in the church this Sunday. The worship service at the retreat at Camp Mennoscah will begin at 10 a.m. We will celebrate two baptisms at the retreat.

Please pray for Harold Thieszen, Barbara and John Thiesen and Andrew Thiesen and their extended family as they grieve the death of their wife, mother, and grandmother, Esther. Esther died Friday morning, April 28, 2023 at Kidron Bethel Village.

A date for the memorial service will be announced later.

Please remember in your prayers Diana and Charles Graber and their extended family on the death of Diana’s mother, Mary Kathryn (Yoder) Stucky. Mary Kathryn died April 23, 2023, at Pine Village, Moundridge. Visitation will be Friday, April 28, 4 to 8 p.m. with the family present from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Moundridge Funeral Home. The memorial will be Saturday, April 29, 11 a.m. at First Mennonite Church of Christian in Moundridge.
You can read the obituary at this link: https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/mcphersonsentinel/name/mary-stucky-obituary?id=51722499

Offering for April 23, 2023: General Fund $6,495; Caring Fund $175; Library Reserve Fund $5; Living Stones $140; Flower Fund $10; Kitchen Fund $16; Women’s Fellowship $458.

BCMC Congregational Meeting
The next congregational meeting will take place on Sunday, May 7, at 10:45 during the Sunday School hour. The meeting will be held in the sanctuary and made available live on YouTube only while the meeting is in progress; it will not be recorded. Votes from remote viewers can be texted to a number available in the May 7 bulletin and announced at the beginning of the meeting. Agenda items will include approval of new commission, committee, and board members; updates from the Search Committee and Credence Report Task Group; and reports from several task groups and staff.

Click the link below for a pdf of the Annual Report Booklet. There will be printed copies available in the Gathering Place on the ledge between the mailboxes.

Annual Report Booklet for June 1, 2022 to May 31, 2023

A message from the Bethel College Relations Team of BCMC

Last year due to COVID the Bethel College Baccalaureate Sunday morning service was held at Memorial Hall at Bethel College, rather than at Bethel College Mennonite Church. That is the plan again for this year.

The BCMC ministerial team has decided to cancel the worship service in our sanctuary on May 14 and instead to encourage BCMC members to attend the Bethel College Baccalaureate service in Bethel College’s Memorial Hall at 10 a.m.

The Bethel College Mennonite Church Bethel College Relations Team wanted to inform you of this. Please consider attending the Bethel College Baccalaureate service on May 14 at 10 a.m. as a way of showing your support and encouragement for this year’s graduates and our friends at Bethel College.

Thank you. BCMC Bethel College Relations Team: Dick Koontz, Darlene Dick, Carol Flickinger, Ron Flickinger

To the BCMC congregation: Thank you for your generosity to replenish our caring fund over the Lenten season. We appreciate your continued support. – The Deacons Commission.

You are invited to contribute non-perishable food for the local Salvation Army food pantry. On the first Sunday of the month, bring items to BCMC and place them on the cart in the south entrance of the church. Salvation Army requires food boxes to be sealed but if you have unsealed boxes, with items still sealed in them, you can also contribute these items. Kathy Stucky will distribute the sealed boxes to the Salvation Army and opened boxes of food with items still sealed to the various food neighborhood pantries in Newton.

New Hope Shelter Announcement
Message from Brian Bisbee, director of New Hope Shelter:

We are transitioning as we head towards the new building. We only have $20,411 to raise to meet the Mabee Foundation challenge requirement. That will give us the $1 million we need to complete the fundraising for the new Shelter, furnishings and equipment. Of course we will be working on the support for the continuing operations.

An Announcement about Jon Voth
Jon Voth will be joining the Red Lake MN MDS Team April 30, 2023 for most of the summer. His temporary address will be 10200 MN-89, Red Lake MN 56671. It will be updated if it changes.
His Cell phone number is 316-284-1072

Book Sale – The Western District Conference Resource Library in North Newton, KS will be hosting a Book Sale on Saturday, May 6 from 8:30am -12:30pm outside in front of the WDC building. There will be a large variety of donated books and books & DVDs removed from circulation. Donations will be accepted for your selections. Hope to see you there!

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
Save the Date! Western District Conference Annual Assembly, August 11-13, 2023 at Tabor Mennonite Church, Newton, KS. This annual event is for all ages. Come for intergenerational fun faith formation, music, worship, work of the broader church, good food, time with old and new friends, and more! The topic is holy listening.

Western District Conference Prayer Request
Dear Lord, we draw near to the throne of your grace, to give you glory, honor, and praise. And to ask you to hear the prayer of your children crying out to you. My prayer request is that you guide us, in our meetings, that we feel your peace, in every decision. Revive your work amid the times in which we are living, and may the world know you, and may the church take the initiative to be light, to give light, to remain in light and in the midst of darkness to shine like a burning torch. Amen – WDC Church Planting Commission

Bethel College Announcements

(Sun., April 30) – Masterworks concert at Bethel College, 4 p.m. (NOTE TIME CHANGE), featuring mass choir, orchestra and soloists, performing Mozart Krönungsmesse (“Coronation Mass”) and Beethoven Fantasia, Op. 80 (“Choral Fantasy”); Memorial Hall
Mon., May 1 – Bethel College Steel Drum Band concert, directed by Brad Shores, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. The concert also features the community band Steel Paradise and the McPherson College Steel Drum Band, with hymn arrangements, pop, calypso and original compositions. This will be Brad Shores’ final concert before he moves to Florida. Free admission, with a freewill offering taken to support Bethel College music.
Tues., May 2 – Bethel College Voice Studio recital, Soyoun Chun, instructor, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel

Weds., May 3 – Jazz on the Green at Bethel College, directed by Joel Boettger, 7 p.m. (Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center in case of rain)

Sat., May 6 – Kauffman Museum bird walk, 7 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., May 7 – Woven and Open Road joint concert at Bethel College, 7 p.m., Memorial Hall
Last week to view the annual Student Art Exhibit in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center at Bethel College, featuring the work of 61 Bethel students in a variety of media. Exhibit closes Fri., May 5. Gallery hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays.

Hesston College Announcements

May 12 – Music Recitals

May 12 – Bel Canto Singers Concert

Bel Canto Singers will perform a concert over commencement weekend Friday, May 12, at 7 p.m. Join in person at Hesston Mennonite Church or watch the live stream at hesston.edu/livestream.

May 13 – Nursing Pinning

Celebrate the accomplishments of the 2023 baccalaureate degree nursing graduates. Join in person at Hesston Mennonite Church or watch the live stream at hesston.edu/pinning-webcast.

May 13 – Theatre Showcase & Student Directed One-Act Play

May 13 – Commencement

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

Camp Mennoscah is looking for people to provide a “main course” for approx. 12 people during the week of May 29-June 2.Camp will provide the extras for the meal and staff do the meal prep as a team building exercise. If you would like to provide the full meal, wonderful! During this week, summer staff do training for Youth Development, the Staff Handbook, Reducing the Risk of Abuse, and more. This week prepares the staff to create great camp experiences for a summer of campers. Contact Olivia at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org for details.

Other events and happenings:

Scholarship requests are due by May 1. (After May 1, some funds may still be available.) Camp Mennoscah has scholarship funds to assist campers who might not otherwise be able to attend a week of camp. To request scholarship funds, complete the online form. Questions can be directed to olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.
Camp Mennoscah is looking for counselors for the 2023 summer youth camps. Click here to fill out the informational survey! Counselors must be at least 17 years old and 5 years older than the campers. Weekly program directors will contact people, as needed. If you have questions, contact Camp Mennoscah at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290.
Nurse needed for July 9-14, Junior High II Camp. As a nurse, you are a vital part of camp life. Your work to keep everyone healthy and well means campers and staff are ready to play and learn during their time at camp. Nurses must be a registered nurse (RN). Nurses receive either a stipend or a camper discount up to full camp fees. Contact us at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.
A head cook(s) is needed for PreJunior II, June 25-29. The head cook is in charge of leading kitchen staff in the preparation of meals and snacks that keep campers energetic, smiling, and ready to enjoy the full camp days. Camp Mennoscah can provide a menu, if wanted, and will order groceries and get kitchen staff. Head cooks and nurses receive either a stipend or a camper discount up to full camp fees. Contact us at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.
Got any 5 gallon buckets with or without lids?Camp Mennoscah is looking for 5 gallon buckets with lids for compost. We’ll take lids or the lids and buckets. Contact us at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290 to figure out pick up or bring them to camp when your church or camper comes.
Click to register! Summer youth camp registration is open and Camp Mennoscah is receiving registrations. The summer theme is FruitFULL Faith. Get ready to learn and sing about the Fruit of the Spirit this summer–it’s not a coconut!

Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp Announcements

SPRUCE BEETLE PACKET WORKDAY – Now May 6th – The original effort to minimize the impact of the spruce beetle with pheromone packets here at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp was impacted by snow and cold. Go figure, spring in Colorado. So please consider if the revised date fits into your schedule. Pheromone packets are disbursed and stapled on trees around camp to “communicate” to the beetles to go elsewhere. We need your help by signing up on the camp’s Volunteer page and selecting the “Signup for Maintenance“ button. Friday night accommodations are offered by request and Saturday will begin with a hearty camp breakfast at 8:00 a.m. Hope to have you join us!

VOLUNTEERS & SUMMER STAFF INVITATIONS – With summer camping season fast approaching, Rocky Mountain invites additional volunteers and summer staff to join in providing a fun and meaningful experience to all who come this summer. Volunteer opportunities and sign-up to help with foodservice, housekeeping, maintenance and van driving can be found under the “VOLUNTEER – VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES SIGN-UP” link on camp’s web page (rmmc.org). Summer Staff opportunities and sign-up to join campers and facilitate their camp experience can be found under “ABOUT US – SUMMER STAFF OPPORTUNITIES“.

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request:
Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Joseph and Rachel Givens, who serve as hosts at the Maria Skobtsova House in Calais, France, which offers temporary shelter to migrants from Africa and the Middle East. Pray for the Givens family as they work with many volunteers. May their presence encourage the sojourners they encounter.

For Mennonite World Conference press here
For Mennonite Mission Network News from around the world press here
For Anabaptist Disabilities Network press here
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

Mennonite Church USA is seeking a Director of Archives and Records Management to oversee the accessioning, arrangement, description and preservation of permanent records for MC USA as well as collections of individuals or institutions closely associated with MC USA. Degree in history, archival studies, library science or related field and/or equivalent work experience preferred. View the job description here: mennoniteusa.org/archives-position

Menno SnapshotsA spiritual practice can be as simple as praying with beads. Shirley Yoder Brubaker, a retired pastor and educator, and member of Park View Mennonite Church in Harrisonburg, Virginia uses the concept of the Catholic rosary as a form of Anabaptist prayer beads. Read more of her reflections here: mennoniteusa.org/praying-with-beads

Announcements for April 23-30, 2023

April 23, 2023 – Creation Care Sunday

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 belows that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. Anytime after the service concludes, you can watch a recording of the service at your convenience by clicking the same green LIVE 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/Sebiui99CFc?feature=share

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
April 23, 2023
Third Sunday of Easter
The Restoration of Creation

Prelude—Kol Nidrei (Bruch)—Caleb Garber, cello; Lisa Schmidt, accompanist

Christ Candle Lighting—Elizabeth Schmidt

Welcome and Prayer

*Hymn All Things Bright and Beautiful—VT 177

Children’s Conversation—Kathy Stucky

Anthem—All Creatures, Worship God Most High—VT 81—verses 1-4, 7 –Chancel Choir, Riley King, director; Karen Schlabaugh, accompanist—Congregation join in unison on verse 7

Scripture Reading—Genesis 1:24-31; Romans 8:18-24a; Colossians 1:15-20—Jane Goering

Reflections—Dwight Platt, Lorna Harder, Ani Koontz

*Hymn of Response—The Garden Needs Our Tending Now—VT 788

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—There’s a Wild Hope in the Wind—VT 828

*Benediction

Postlude— Postlude on Fredericktown (Robert J. Powell)—Karen Schlabaugh

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

YouTube Link: https://youtube.com/live/Sebiui99CFc?feature=share

The Kansas Mennonite Men’s Chorus (KMMC) performs, Sun., Apr. 23, 7 p.m. at Memorial Hall, Bethel College, North Newton. The KMMC is a large, all-volunteer male choir. In recent seasons membership has topped 300. Their motto is “we sing that others may live.” Offerings taken at KMMC concerts are donated to the Mennonite Central Committee.

BCMC Camp Mennoscah Retreat
The Mennoscah Retreat is quickly approaching – and we have very few people signed up so far! To help us with food – and making sure we have enough accommodation space – please take a few moments to let us know you’re coming! You can use this link: https://forms.gle/ccavLqvMS1Ft2WBVA to indicate you are able to attend. We’d really like to know by Monday, April 24 so we can most accurately plan for food supplies for our three tasty meals!

This Week at BCMC: April 23—30, 2023
Today is Creation Care Sunday. Copies of our Creation Care Covenant, with suggestions for creation care practices, are available on the table in the Gathering Place.   Thank you to Dwight Platt, Lorna Harder, and Ani Koontz for sharing their reflections during the worship service today.
Sun, Apr. 23, 2023—Third Sunday of Easter
9:30 am    Worship   YouTube Link for this Sunday is:  https://youtube.com/live/Sebiui99CFc?feature=share
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:30 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) Topic for Sunday: “Mennonite Contribution to the Dutch Golden Age, Part II” by Lauren Friesen; Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21) Seekers (Rm 28)
3:30—5:30 p.m. Faith Exploration Class in Room 28
Mon., Apr. 24, 2023
10 am   Staff meeting in Room 14
Wed., Apr. 26, 2023
7 pm    Senior High Youth Group
7:30 pm   Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the Sanctuary
Thurs., Apr. 27, 2023
4 pm     Hospitality Commission meeting in Room 14
5-7:30 pm Community Playschool Book Night in Fellowship Hall/Classrooms
6:30 pm Chancel Bell rehearsal in Room B7
7 pm     Deacon Commission meeting in Room 14
Sun., Apr. 30, 2023—Camp Mennoscah Retreat
There will be no worship service at BCMC this Sunday

BCMC Offering for April 16, 2023: General Fund $6,075.33; Columbarium Fund $1,000; Caring Fund $750; Living Stones $58.33; Kitchen Fund $23; Tamen Miller Memorial $1,000.

From the Board:
Congregational Meeting
The next congregational meeting will take place on Sunday, May 7, at 10:45 during the Sunday School hour. The meeting will be held in the sanctuary and made available live on YouTube only while the meeting is in progress; it will not be recorded. Votes from remote viewers can be texted to a number available in the May 7 bulletin and announced at the beginning of the meeting. Agenda items will include approval of new commission, committee, and board members; updates from the Search Committee and Credence Report Task Group; and reports from several task groups and staff. Report booklets will be available soon.

Progress with Pastoral Search
At its April 6 meeting, the BCMC Board approved the Congregational Information Form completed by the Search Committee and the job description for the new pastoral position. The Search Committee has sent these two documents to Western District Conference for official announcement and advertisement of our open pastoral position. Both Search Committee and Board appreciated the congregational input from the congregational priorities survey. Thanks to all who participated in this process; we ask for the congregation’s ongoing support.
The job description is for a full-time Co-Pastor. Primary areas of emphasis will be worship, facilitating the teamwork of pastors and staff, work with board and commissions/committees, and participating with other pastors and staff in the caregiving team. Within the context of a flexible pastoral and staff team, additional emphases may be added dependent upon the gifts and interests of the candidate.

There will be a chance for discussion and questions in the sanctuary this Sunday, April 23, during the Sunday School hour. Questions may also be asked during the congregational meeting on May 7.

BCMC will be hosting the community Vacation Bible School this year, held May 30-June 2 with a joint worship service on the Bethel College Lawn at 10 a.m., June 4. A QR code and link for Registration will be available starting April 30. We are looking for volunteers! If you feel called to volunteer for the week please fill out the bulletin insert (which was in the church bulletin last Sunday, but there are also forms on the ledge between the mailboxes in the Gathering Place) and put it in either Jill Robb or Mary Ellen Hodge’s box, or send either of us an email. Youth older than 5th grade who would like to volunteer will be paired with an adult. We would love to plug you in!

Pastor Roger Neufeld Smith will be driving back to Topeka next Mon. afternoon (4/24). He will be back in North Newton on Thurs., May 4. Roger checks his phones messages and texts frequently when he is in Topeka, so feel free to contact him via phone or email.

Newton Et Cetera Shop’s board of directors will host a farewell reception for general manager Sara Dick on Sat., Apr. 29, 2-4 p.m. at the shop (619 North Main, Newton). You’re invited to stop by to celebrate seven years of Sara’s leadership and wish her well!

A Newton Et Cetera Shop Volunteer Event will be Tues., May 2, 6:30 p.m. at Shalom Mennonite Church, 800 E. 1st St., Newton. Current and former volunteers and anyone interested in becoming a volunteer at the shop are invited. Come to learn more about our mission and opportunities to get involved. 30% of Mennonite Central Committee’s annual budget comes from thrift shops across the United States. Hope to see you there!

Newton Et Cetera Shop’s 2023 Local Giving Grant applications are due Mon., May 1. Information and a link for the application can be found at newtonetceterashop.com/local-giving-fund/.

Life Enrichment for April 27—Krehbiel Auditorium
9:30 a.m. “Crisis Communication Strategies Emerging from the #ChurchToo Movement” Christine Crouse-Dick, Ph.D., Bethel College professor of communication arts
10:35 a.m. “Don’t Let Your Buffalo Run Loose: Stories from Harvey County,” Kristine Schmucker, archivist/curator, and Catherine Graves, director, Harvey County Historical Museum and Archives, Newton
11:30 a.m. “Bethel College Steel Drum Ensemble,” Brad Shores, director

Bethel College Announcements:
· Sun., Apr. 23 – Junior recital by Bethel College student Josie Epp, piano, 4 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium
· Weds., Apr. 26 – Bethel College Wind Ensemble concert, directed by Joel Boettger, 7 p.m., Featuring works by Maslanka, Curiale, Holst, Chance, Ticheli and Sheldon. Krehbiel Auditorium
· Thurs., Apr. 27 – Annual URICA Symposium at Bethel College, with student posters and presentations beginning at 12:30 p.m. in various campus locations. See https://www.bethelks.edu/academics/convocation-lectures/urica-symposium for a complete schedule.
· Thurs., Apr. 27 – Reception for the annual Student Art Exhibit, featuring the work of Bethel College students in a variety of media, 6-8 p.m., Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Gallery hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m. Exhibit remains through Fri., May 5.
· Sat., Apr. 29 – Friends of Kauffman Museum Sale (vintage and antique items and artwork), 9 a.m.-1 p.m., outside the front entrance and in the museum auditorium (2801 N. Main St., North Newton 67117). All proceeds benefit the museum. For a partial list of items, see https://kauffmanmuseum.org/event/friends-of-the-museum-vintage-antique-art-sale/
· Sun., Apr. 30 – Masterworks concert at Bethel College, 4 p.m. (NOTE TIME CHANGE), featuring mass choir, orchestra and soloists, performing Mozart Krönungsmesse (“Coronation Mass”) and Beethoven Fantasia, Op. 80 (“Choral Fantasy”); Memorial Hall
· Mon., May 1 – Bethel College Steel Drum Band concert, directed by Brad Shores, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium
· Tues., May 2 – Bethel College Voice Studio recital, Soyoun Chun, instructor, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel
· Weds., May 3 – Jazz on the Green at Bethel College, 7 p.m. (Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center in case of rain)
· Sun., May 7 – Woven and Open Road joint concert at BCMC, 7 p.m.

Hesston College Announcements

April 20 to 21 – Flora Kansas Spring Native Plant Days
Come find plants at affordable prices and enjoy supporting the mission of Dyck Arboretum. Hundreds of varieties of plants will be available, many locally grown. Knowledgeable staff and volunteers will be on hand to answer questions and give suggestions. April 20 will be open to members only and the 21st will be open to everyone. Learn more at dyckarboretum.org/events/

April 27 to 30 – Theatre for Young Audiences: Tomato Plant Girl
Theatre lovers of all ages will love Tomato Plant Girl. It is a powerful exploration of friendship between Little Girl, Bossy Best Friend and the messy Tomato Plant Girl. This production will delight young audiences with its physical action and playful, high-energy conflict. Highlighting the issues of bullying and acceptance of others, this play challenges the character of Little Girl to bravely discover the power of making up her own rules and leading with kindness. Learn more at hesston.edu/theatre.

Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
Save the Date! Western District Conference Annual Assembly, August 11-13, 2023 at Tabor Mennonite Church, Newton, KS. This annual event is for all ages. Come for intergenerational fun faith formation, music, worship, work of the broader church, good food, time with old and new friends, and more! The topic is holy listening.

Faith Formation resources for you – The WDC Resource Commission has paid for a subscription for the Vibrant Faith 2023 Masterclass Season Pass of faith formation webinars! Vibrant Faith seeks to transform the way churches envision and design faith formation for all ages and generations in the 21st century. For more details about the webinars, go to: https://vibrantfaith.org/masterclasses/. To access these resources at no cost to you, email Michelle at wdc@mennowdc.org.

The Western District Resource Commission is offering Mustard Seed Grants for up to $500 to WDC congregations who are seeking to share the good news of Jesus in their communities. This is seed money for creative ideas for connecting with neighbors, so relationships can be strengthened and the reconciling love of God can be shared. The hope is that these grants will empower congregations to examine ways to link good news and good works together in a way that is authentically Anabaptist. The grants are available through January 31, 2024.

Criteria for the Mustard Seed Grant include:

an identifiable connection to the surrounding community
a way to build relationships with fellow church members as well as the broader community
congregational buy-in to the program (matching fund/sweat equity)
applicants must be from a WDC congregation
if awarded grant, a short report about the impact this has made on your congregation and community will be shared with WDC

Go to https://mennowdc.org/wdc-mustard-seed-grant-application-2/ to apply.

Blessings as you ponder ways to embolden individuals to share the good news so that God’s healing and hope may flow through you and out into the world.Ordination Service: A celebration of ordination for Michael Unruh, Campus Pastor at Bethel College, will take place on Sunday, May 7 at 2 pm in the Administration Building Chapel at Bethel College, 300 E. 27th Street, North Newton, KS. Guests are welcome to join the college community and Michael’s congregation, Tabor Mennonite Church, for this special occasion.

All Western District Conference women are invited to join a virtual event sponsored by Western District Women in Mission Tues., Apr. 25. Jenny Gehman, spiritual director, retreat speaker, and writer, will present “Holy Host: the Hospitality of God.” Join in person or virtually. In-person gathering will be at First Mennonite Church, Newton, beginning with a salad potluck at 6 p.m., followed by Jenny joining virtually from Pennsylvania at 6:45 p.m. There is no cost to this event, but please register by April 23 by emailing westerndistrictwomen@gmail.com so you can receive a Zoom link if joining virtually. Please email your RSVP if attending in person and bring a salad to share. More information, contact Wendy Schrag at 316-841-5245.

Mennonite Church USA is seeking Menno Snapshots blogs on the topic, “I choose to be Mennonite because...” Bloggers are encouraged to reflect on how they came to Anabaptism, what attracted them to our Mennonite theology and practices, and how this has impacted their lives. This is an ideal opportunity for the recently baptized and/or those who may have joined from other faith traditions. Suggested word count is 500-900 words. Youth are also encouraged to participate (no word count requirements). Read the blog guidelines and submit your blog here by May 22: https://www.mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/blog-guidelines/

For Mennonite Men press here
For Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “A Windmill becomes a windfall” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network News and Beyond press here

Anabaptism at 500 and the Anabaptist Community Bible
The five hundredth anniversary of Anabaptism in 2025 gives the church a unique opportunity to celebrate and dream. To celebrate all the ways God has been faithful, and to dream about how we can mend what’s been broken. Join this special event Saturday, April 29 at 7pm at Whitestone Mennonite Church in Hesston, KS. John D. Roth, project director, and Mitch Stutzman, director of development and partner engagement will talk about the Anabaptism at 500 project and share the vision behind the Anabaptist Community Bible. The event will include an update on the status of the project and a time for questions and conversation.
The Saturday, April 29 special event for Annabaptsit at 500 at 7pm will also be live streamed through the followingYoutube live link: https://www.youtube.com/@WhitestoneMennoniteChurch

Camp Mennoscah Announcements
Scholarship requests are due by May 1. Camp Mennoscah has scholarship funds to assist campers who might not otherwise be able to attend a week of camp. To request scholarship funds, complete the online form. Questions can be directed to olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.

Other events and happenings:

Camp Mennoscah is looking for counselors for the 2023 summer youth camps. Click here to fill out the informational survey! Counselors must be at least 17 years old and 5 years older than the campers. Weekly program directors will contact people, as needed. If you have questions, contact Camp Mennoscah at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290.
Nurses needed for the weeks of June 18-23, Junior I Camp, and July 9-14, Junior High II Camp. As a nurse, you are a vital part of camp life. Your work to keep everyone healthy and well means campers and staff are ready to play and learn during their time at camp. Nurses must be a registered nurse (RN). A head cook(s) is needed for PreJunior II, June 25-29. The head cook is in charge of leading kitchen staff in the preparation of meals and snacks that keep campers energetic, smiling, and ready to enjoy the full camp days. Camp Mennoscah can provide a menu, if wanted, and will order groceries and get kitchen staff. Head cooks and nurses receive either a stipend or a camper discount up to full camp fees. Contact us at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.
If you are planning to come for the April 22 Work Day, please contact Camp Mennoscah at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org, 620-297-3290 or text 316-293-7313. This will help us plan. Please leave a message, if staff do not answer. Thank you!
Kitchen helpers and volunteers are needed for the weeks of June 25-29, July 9-14, and July 16-21. You keep camp running by helping prepare meals in the kitchen and working on maintenance projects or custodial tasks. Your work creates an enjoyable environment for campers to have fun and learn about God. Contact Camp Mennoscah at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290 to sign up!
Do you drink coffee that comes in a large tin can? Camp Mennoscah is looking for lids that fit on a #10 can for a sorting and storage project. We’ll take just the lids or the lids and cans. Contact us at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or call 620-297-3290.
Scholarship funds for campers are needed. If Camp Mennoscah gives the same amount in scholarships as last year, the account will be depleted. Donations to the Scholarship Fund are most welcome. Gifts can be made online or sent to Camp Mennoscah, PO Box 65, Murdock, KS, 67111 with “Scholarship Fund” in the memo. Share the gift of faith formation and friends with others!
Click to register! Summer youth camp registration is open and Camp Mennoscah is receiving registrations. The summer theme is FruitFULL Faith. Get ready to learn and sing about the Fruit of the Spirit this summer–it’s not a coconut!

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
#MennoCon23
Online registration is open for MennoCon23, Mennonite Church USA’s leading faith formation event, in Kansas City (Missouri) Convention Center, July 3-6, 2023. Registration is also open for the Youth & Young Adult Climate Summit, July 7, and the Delegate Assembly, July 7-8. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/mennocon23-registration

Learn, Pray, Join: Welcoming EveryBODY
As part of Mennonite Church USA’s “Learn, Pray, Join: Welcoming EveryBODY” initiative, Jon-Erik (J. E.) Misz, secretary of the Anabaptist Disability Network board of directors, shares about his awareness of the mental health crisis that continues to grow among youth and young adults. Read more of his thoughts here: mennoniteusa.org/telling-whole-story

Learn, Pray, Join: Mass Incarceration
As part of Mennonite Church USA’s “Learn, Pray, Join: Mass Incarceration” series, Conrad Moore, writes about his experience with the mass incarceration system as a mechanism to enforce the caste system of the U.S. Read more about his experience here: mennoniteusa.org/mass-incarceration-mechanism

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Bekah York, as she begins six weeks of North American ministry this month. Pray for inspiration, as she speaks in churches, encouraging others to join what God is doing in Colombia, as well as for rest and renewal, as she reconnects with family and friends.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for sponsors, mentors, teachers and pastors who minister with youth in WDC congregations.