Category Archives: Announcements

Worship Service and Announcements for February 18-25, 2024

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
FEBRUARY 18, 2024 WORSHIP AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
First Sunday of Lent
Christ Among Us: Repent and Believe

Our faith in a God of love leads us, by the power of the Spirit,
to follow Jesus in doing justice, loving mercy,
and walking humbly with God.

To livestream the worship service:
On Sunday morning, around 9:20 a.m., go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen, which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box below that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. Anytime after the service concludes, you can watch a recording of the service at your convenience by clicking the same green LIVE STREAM button. Again, you will probably have to go to the gray box that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. That will transfer you to the BCMC YouTube Channel. You will have to click on the tab “Videos” to see all of the BCMC videos. Click the red button to see the bulletin/order of service.
OR – click on this link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/SN7Pkhl5fwE?feature=share

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
February 18, 2024
First Sunday of Lent
Christ Among Us: Repent and Believe

Christ Candle Lighting

Centering Music—What Wondrous Love is This (arr. Wood)–Will Wiebe-Friesen

Call to Worship (based on Psalm 25:1–10)—Ada Schmidt-Tieszen
One: Teach us your pathways, O God—
our eyes and our souls are trained on you.
Many: For you are the greatest guide,
and your map is always good.
One: Other paths have left us lost;
other ways have left us confused.
Many: You guide us along the trail of your mercy,
drawing sinner and saint down this well worn way.
All: All your paths are love, made smooth by your faithful walking.
We are led into your truth by following the tread of your feet.

*Hymn—Lo, I Am with You (verses 1-4)—VT 284

Children’s Conversation—Jill Robb and Bethany Schrag

Anthem—O Sing Unto the Lord a New Song  (Peter Aston)–Chancel Choir; William Eash, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist

Scripture Reading—Genesis 9:8–17; Mark 1:9–15

Sermon—With the Wild Beasts and the Angels—Nathan Koontz

*Hymn—Spirit of God! Descend—VT 557

Prayers of God’s People

Prayer of Confession
One: God, on Ash Wednesday, we remembered our humanity,
our fragility, our limits, our sinfulness, our need for repentance.
Today, we come to you with this fresh on our minds as we continue our Lenten journey. Many: Be with us in this wilderness.
One: We so often focus on the difficulty of our walk with Christ.
Many: Forgive our self-focused minds.
One: Forgive us, Lord, when on our journey,
we forget your extensive, covenantal love for the world.
Many: May we partner with you and your church to remember.
All: (looking at one another) You are beloved.

*Hymn—Spirit, Open My Heart—VT 636

*Benediction

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

* You are invited to stand

VT—Voices Together
Keyboard- Will Wiebe-Friesen
Audio visual—Ken Lamp

This Week at BCMC: February 18—25, 2024
Sunday, February 18, 2024
9:30 a.m.    Worship    YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/SN7Pkhl5fwE?feature=share

The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 am Faith Formation—Intergenerational class meets in Room 26;   High School-Room 24    Adult Classes: Agape Class meets in the nursery; Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21) Seekers (Rm 28)
Tuesday, February 20, 2024
11 a.m.     Staff meeting
5:30 p.m. Pastor Search Committee meeting in room 14
5:30 p.m. Women’s Fellowship meets at First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 801 North Main.
An Opportunity for Men and Women – February Women’s Fellowship Meeting. Circle of Hope is one of the organizations that BCMC supports. Tues., Feb. 20, is graduation night for those completing their “Getting Ahead” to get out of poverty. An invitation has been extended for us to attend the 5:30 p.m. supper (by donation) as well as the 6:30 p.m. graduation at First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 801 North Main St. (east entrance). Come and see how this organization, which we support, is helping people out of poverty. If you would like transportation, call Lois Brubacher, 316-772-3033 or Lois Goertzen, 316-283-4049 and meet in alley drive east of church at 5 p.m. Tues. Offerings for Women’s Fellowship – please put in Lois Goertzen’s church box.

6:30 p.m. Newton Chorale Rehearsal in the sanctuary
Wednesday, February 21, 2024—Wednesday meal and program
6 p.m.        Wednesday night meal in fellowship hall (menus are below)

Wednesday Night Suppers are Coming (February 21, 2024) – Here are the menus

Feb 21

Chicken with creamy spinach and artichoke sauce
Red beans and rice
Cake with hearts

Feb 28

Baked Penne with Italian sausage
Caesar salad
Cannoli dessert

Mar 6

Shepherd’s Pie
Fruit salad
Lemon bars

Mar 13

Potato green bean bacon soup
Green grapes
Pistachio lush

Mar 20

Tuna melts
Coleslaw
Tater tots
Brownies and ice cream

Mar 28

Meatloaf
Twice baked potato casserole
Mixed vegetables
Chocolate chip cookies

PLEASE EMAIL THE OFFICE office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org IF YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE FEBRUARY 21 SUPPER SO THE COOKS CAN HAVE AN IDEA OF HOW MUCH FOOD TO PREPARE! TELL US HOW MANY PEOPLE IN YOUR FAMILY/PARTY WILL BE ATTENDING. THANK YOU!

6:30 p.m.   Gifts Discernment Committee meeting in room 14
6:45 p.m    Wednesday program in fellowship hall
Wednesday Evening Programming—Intersecting Climate Change, Christian Colonialism, & Indigenous Spirituality
On Feb. 21 we will resume our Wednesday evening meal and discussion. For the next six weeks, after the meal, we will explore the intersection of climate change, colonialist Christian theology and indigenous spirituality. Each week, we will have a brief introduction on this theme and time for discussion. Discussions will go through March 27. There are copies of the entire outline of the programming on the ledge in the gathering place.   On the first Sunday of each month, we acknowledge that we live and worship on land that was once cared for by people who were indigenous to this land. Since the arrival of new peoples, this land has changed more than we can imagine. And with a changing climate, it will surely change even more. One of the consequences of the genocide and forced removal of Indigenous peoples is the loss of indigenous wisdom and spirituality, especially in regard to the land and the living things on it. We hope to gain from this exercise more life affirming interpretations of Christian scriptures and theological understandings and indigenous spirituality that can help us become better stewards of God’s good creation.

7:30 p.m.   Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the sanctuary
Thursday, February 22, 2024
6:30 p.m.   Chancel Bells Rehearsal in room B-7
7 p.m.         Deacon Commission meeting in room 14
Friday, February 23, 2024
6: 30 p.m.   Newton Chorale rehearsal in the sanctuary
Saturday, February 24, 2024
We offer sympathy to John Suderman and his extended family on the death of John’s wife, Alice, February 14, at Kidron Bethel Village.  The memorial service will be Sat., Feb. 24, 11 a.m. at BCMC with a visitation preceding at 9:30 a.m. in the BCMC Chapel. A light lunch in fellowship hall will follow the service.
Sunday, February 25, 2024—Lent 2
9:30 a.m.     Worship led by the Senior High Youth group with reflections from the youth; music by Chancel Bells    10:45 a.m. Faith Formation
Noon             Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner Event

Future Events at BCMC:
· Feb. 21, 6 p.m.—Wednesday night suppers begin
· Feb. 24, 9:30 a.m. Visitation with the Suderman family in BCMC Chapel (open to all) followed by Memorial Service for Alice Suderman at 11 a.m. in BCMC sanctuary. A light lunch in fellowship hall will follow the service.
· Feb. 25, 9:30 a.m.—Second Sunday in Lent and at noon, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner. This event is a way for BCMC folks to get acquainted with other BCMC folks that they might not know very well. The Hospitality Commission has matched people who signed up as hosts with people who signed up as guests. Guests will receive your food assignment slips Sunday, Feb. 18, and hosts will receive the slips Sunday, Feb. 18, with the number of guests they are hosting. (In mailboxes)
· Feb. 25, the BCMC Senior High Youth Group are planning the worship service and will have reflections and report on their Snow Camp experience.
· March 2, 11 a.m., memorial service for Richard Siemens, followed by a light lunch in fellowship hall.
· March 9, 11 a.m., memorial service for Nancy Hilty followed by a light lunch in fellowship hall.
· April 13, 11 a.m., memorial service for Don Kaufman followed by a light lunch in fellowship hall.

Roger’s Whereabouts: Roger returns to Newton Wed., Feb. 21. Whether in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and cell phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone (785-220-1968).

Deacon Care Concern: Deacons were made aware of a community need involving the death of a mother of 4 young girls, ages 2, 3, 5, and 6. The family welcomes donations of gently-used clothing for young girls. Donated items may be brought to the church office for coordination of delivery. – Deacon Commission

BCMC Offering for February 11, 2024: General $9,607; Sr Hi Youth $1,010; Jr Hi Fund $1,535; Kitchen Fund $14; Solar Fund $5,900.

After a great December finish for 2023, we apparently took a little breather in January and as a result, the churches’ expenditures exceeded income by over $13,000 or about 33% of expenditures. We realize that it is early in the year and we hope that this is not a trend, but we think that information is power and thus will give you a basis on which to act. Finance Committee

The Library Theme for the rest of February is Civil Rights. Come in and browse our collection of some amazing Black History books either on the shelving behind the library desk or along the south wall of the Youth/Children’s room.
Please continue to support our puzzle swap via a $5 donation. (We raised $130 last year!) We are using the extra funds to help pay for the library computer program as well as to purchase more expensive books than our $300 budget normally allows. You will find the puzzles outside the library door as well as along the north wall of the library. And, coming soon to the library: A Mennonite Poetry Corner. We are happily supporting the request to house Mennonite poetry books along the east wall of the library. We hope to have this display up by the end of the month. Happy Reading and Happy Puzzling!

Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale (KMRS) is April 12 & 13 at the Kansas State Fair Grounds in Hutchinson. This sale is one way to generate funds to help MCC share God’s love and compassion for all people in the name of Christ.
· Last week we learned about Germaine and her family who live in Kikwit, DR Congo. Their lives were transformed by easy access to clean water, thanks to MCC’s water projects. Did you know that last year, MCC helped over 55,000 people gain an improved water source? Help fill the My Coins Count jug in the Gathering Place with coins (and bills) to support water projects around the world. Look at the Water Calendar on the KMRS table for participation ideas.
· What do a copper kettle, an oil painting, a guitar, a signed jersey, an RV, a vintage quilt, a weekend getaway, and an antique truck have in common? They can all be donated to KMRS and sold at one of 4 different auctions: Silent Auction, General Auction, Children’s Auction, Quilt Auction. You simply donate it, and the auction committees can decide the best location for your item. Talk to a BCMC sale liaison today!
· Do you have a green thumb? Now is the time to start seeds or cuttings for Plants & Things. They can sell just about any fruit, tree, vegetable or house plant…and items used for gardening.
· Upcoming Deadlines:
· Feb 18 (Sunday!) — Friendship Meal registration ends today. Sheets are on the KMRS table.
· Feb 28 — General Auction sale bill. Have something to donate? Let us know so we can include pictures and descriptions.
· Mar 2 — Quilt Auction items to BCMC for the BCMC display.
· Mar 13 — Last day for SS classes to help underwrite KMRS costs. To date, BCMC classes have purchased $1750 of goods, including pickles, butter, cheese, and more. The next round of bidding takes place on March 14. Thanks to donors, all sale expenses are covered before the sale so proceeds go directly to MCC programs.
· More Information: KMRS posterboard & table in the Gathering Place for information and forms for Run for Relief, Quilt Auction, Sale Sponsorship, Friendship Meals, as well as the My Coins Count jug.
· KMRS website: https://kansas.mccsale.org/
BCMC liaisons: Steve & Elaine Schurr, William & Esther Kreider Eash, and Brad & Diane Born.

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

Mennonite Central Committee partner Team Brownsville welcomes your gently used winter coats and jackets! Team Brownsville seeks to share God’s love by welcoming asylum seekers, including providing them with warm coats. It’s as easy as collecting your gently used coats and jackets, boxing them up and shipping (up to) 70 lb./box to Team Brownsville – just follow the instructions on the poster which is on the bulletin board. Spring clean your closets and help Team Brownsville prepare for next winter! Have questions? Please email the MCC Central States Immigration Team at centralstates@mcc.org and either Abraham Diaz Alonso or Becky Teiwes, will respond.

Bethel College Announcements
· Mon., Feb. 19 – “Transmutation Speculation: Fluid Nature,” works by Marguerite Perret, opens in Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center (through Mar. 22; reception Mar. 21). Gallery hours: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m.
· Weds., Feb. 21 – Bethel College Orchestra, directed by Kris Hilding, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center
· Fri., Feb. 23 – Bethel College’s Faculty Lecture Series continues with Brad Born, professor of English, “Walking Ways and Ways of Seeing,” 11 a.m., Kidron Hall at Kidron Bethel Village
· Fri., March 1 – KIPCOR 50th-anniversary Peace Lecture, “Justice Delayed is Democracy Denied.” with Christina Swarns, 7 p.m., Memorial Hall. Swarns is the executive director of Innocence Project and former litigation director for the NAACP Legal Defense & Educational Fund.
· Sat., March 2 – A one-day endowed Justice Symposium at Bethel College, focusing on the U.S. carceral and criminal justice system, with Christina Swarns, executive director of Innocence Project, and a variety of other voices on the death penalty, prosecution and racial justice; 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on the Bethel campus. The symposium is free but pre-registration is required by going to https://kipcor.org
· Sun., March 3 – Bethel College Choir Tour Send-off Concert, “Music Exploring American Identity” directed by Dr. Henry S. Waters, 4 p.m., Memorial Hall. The concert has performances by the Chamber Singers, Woven, and Open Road.
· SAVE THE DATES: Sun., March 17 & Mon., March 18 – Hartzler Bible Lectures at Bethel College with César Garcia and Sandra Baez

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

CAMP MENNOSCAH ANNOUNCEMENTS

The Retreat Center is an important part of Camp Mennoscah’s mission to create a sacred space for relationships in God’s creation. The building is used by church groups, families, and kitchen staff, as well as outside groups seeking a peaceful place in nature. Two volunteers are needed every week day (M-F) to continue the work on the Retreat Center project.
Contractors depend on volunteer work being completed before they arrive. Please seriously consider volunteering so this building where the camp community gathers is available by June. Work will start at 9am and end at 5pm. Half days are fine. Bring your own lunch and water bottle, please, and meet at the Retreat Center. Park off the edge of the road to the west of the building. Camp Mennoscah will provide tools needed. Space heaters will be used, but temperatures inside may be around 50 degrees. Camp can provide overnight housing and a kitchen in most situations, if you want to volunteer more than one day. We will work with you to find you a comfortable place to stay.

Please let us know you are coming so we can be prepared. Contact us at 620-297-3290, 316-293-7313 (text) or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org. We are grateful for your generosity as a volunteer. Thank you for helping make the Retreat Center project a reality!Other events and happenings:

he Summer Staff application form will be closing February 15. Those interested in applying should submit their application now. Only hours remain. The application for 2024 Summer Staff at Camp Mennoscah can be found here.
Registration for 2024 Summer Youth Camps is open! Staff is still adjusting to the big Retreat Center project and some details are sure to have been missed–but that will not stop you from registering for a great week of camp. The theme for the summer is Linked By Love and looks at the many ways we experience God’s love through relationships. Register online!
Scholarship funds are needed for summer youth camps. Just as facilities are an important part of Camp Mennoscah’s ministry, so are campers. There are campers who are unable to come to camp without assistance. Give to the Scholarship Fund or Scholarship Endowment to help more campers learn about Christ while in God’s creation. Mark your donation with the fund/endowment you prefer. The Scholarship Endowment will give up to two full scholarships a year, depending on earnings. Contact olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290 for more information.
Summer Youth Camps take many hands to make them run. Nurses, head cooks, kitchen staff and maintenance volunteers are needed for every week of camp. The summer camps range from 3 to 6 days and begin June 9. Contact us at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org if you are interested.

For Mennonite Men press here

For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “Seeds of Peace” press here
For Mennonite World Conference press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Menno Snapshots

Jonathan Kuttab, international human rights attorney and Mennonite Church USA 2023 Bring the Peace Legacy Peacemaker honoree, describes how his work as a human rights lawyer relates to peace and justice. Read more and watch the interview here: mennoniteusa.org/kuttab-btp

Beryl Jantzi, director of stewardship education for Everence, a ministry partner of Mennonite Church USA, shares congregational stewardship resources in his recent Menno Snapshots blog. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/new-year-stewardship

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Tomorrow, members of the Community of Anabaptist Theological Institutions will gather for a four-day meeting in Mexico. Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for the leaders of Anabaptist seminaries in Colombia, Guatemala, Mexico and the United States, as they collaborate to expand Spanish-language opportunities for church leadership development.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for youth pastors, leaders and sponsors in WDC congregations, as they accompany and encourage young people growing as followers of Jesus in today’s world.

Bethel College Mennonite Church is an open and affirming congregation
centered in the life and teachings of Jesus. Embracing the divine within each person, we warmly welcome any and all into fellowship without regard to race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability,
economic status, marital status, or age.

Worship Service and Announcements for Feb. 11, 2024

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH WORSHIP AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR FEBRUARY 11, 2024

Our faith in a God of love leads us, by the power of the Spirit,
to follow Jesus in doing justice, loving mercy,
and walking humbly with God.

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
February 11, 2024
Transfiguration Sunday

Christ Candle Lighting

Centering Music—I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say (Burkhardt)—Karen Unruh

Welcome and Prayer—Tim Hodge

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

Children’s Conversation—William & Esther Kreider Eash

*Hymn—I Know Not Why God’s Wondrous—VT 590

Scripture Reading—2 Kings 2:1-12; Mark 9:2-9—Doug Penner

Sermon—It Is Good For Us to Be Here—Julianna Schrag

*Hymn—You, Lord, Are Both Lamb and Shepherd—VT 432

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Praise to the Living God—VT 204

*Benediction

Postlude—A Rejoicing (Fedak)—Karen Unruh

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together
Keyboard- Karen Unruh
Audio visual—Francis Toews

Welcome Julianna Schrag as Guest Preacher
We are very happy to have Julianna Schrag as our guest preacher for Sunday, February 11. Julianna graduated from Bethel College in 2023 with a degree in Communications and minors in Management and English. She served as Faith Formation intern at BCMC in 2020 and 2021. Julianna currently works as an admissions counselor at Bethel and is busy planning her July wedding!

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

We offer sympathy to Doug Siemens & LuAnn Zook and Charlotte Siemens & David Sprunger and their families on the death of Richard Siemens, Feb. 3. The memorial service for Richard will be March 2, 11 a.m. with a lunch following in fellowship hall.

This Week at BCMC: February 11—18, 2024

Sunday, February 11, 2024
9:30 a.m.    Worship    YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/gNQo8wz1jPk?feature=share

Super Bowl Snacks Fundraiser by Junior High Youth in Gathering Place!

The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 am Faith Formation—Intergenerational class meets in Room 26;   High School-Room 24    Adult Classes: Agape Class meets in the nursery; Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21) Seekers (Rm 28)
Tuesday, February 13, 2024
9 a.m.       Women’s Fellowship Executive Board meeting in Room 14
11 a.m.     Staff meeting
3 p.m.       Peace Sunday Planning Group in Room 14
Wednesday, February 14, 2024—Ash Wednesday
10 a.m.      Library Committee in Room 14 and Library
6:30 p.m. Ash Wednesday Service in the sanctuary
7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the sanctuary
Thursday, February 15, 2024
4 p.m.        Witness Commission meeting in Room 14
6:30 p.m.   Chancel Bells Rehearsal in Room B-7
6:30 p.m.   Abuse Prevention and Response Committee meeting
7 p.m.         Bethel College Women’s Association meeting in fellowship hall
Sunday, February 18, 2024—Lent 1
9:30 a.m.     Worship with sermon by Nathan Koontz; music by Chancel Choir
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation

Roger’s Whereabouts:  Roger will return to Newton on Wed., Feb. 21. Whether in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and cell phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone (785-220-1968).

BCMC Offering for February 4, 2024:  General $5,211; Sr Hi Youth $176; Jr Hi Fund $25; Kitchen Fund $15; Solar Fund $13,050; Nancy Hilty Mem. $50.

After a great December finish for 2023, we apparently took a little breather in January and as a result, the churches’ expenditures exceeded income by over $13,000 or about 33% of expenditures. We realize that it is early in the year and we hope that this is not a trend, but we think that information is power and thus will give you a basis on which too act.  Finance Committee

To my church family: I felt so blessed to celebrate my 98th birthday in my church during Sunday coffee hour. Thank you so much for the special cards and for the many best wishes I received!  Willye Hinz

Thank You to Erin Brubacher and Crystal Gaeddert who stood by me on Jan. 17 when I fell at the Rec Center and ended up in ER with a broken hip. I felt I had angels watching over my situation until the EMT help arrived. Grateful for a caring community, for visit by Elizabeth Schmidt, cards, texts and calls
and your prayers.   Lotti Boschmann

Thank you for your support on our January 28th soup luncheon fundraiser. We appreciate your generosity. We raised $3,550. Your support and donations allow us to take trips such as RMMC Snow Camp and our annual summer service trips. Save the Date: Sunday, February 25th, we will report to you on our Snow Camp experience. We especially enjoyed getting to know you a little bit better with the Find Someone Who activity.
The BCMC Senior High Youth Group

Future February Events at BCMC:
· February 14, 2024, 6:30 p.m.—Ash Wednesday Service in the Sanctuary
· February 18, 2024, 9:30 a.m.—First Sunday in Lent
· February 21, 2024, 6 p.m.—Wednesday night suppers begin – see below for Wednesday Evening Programming
· February 25, 2024, 9:30 a.m.—Second Sunday in Lent and at noon, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” is a way for BCMC folks to get acquainted with other BCMC folks that they might not know very well. The Hospitality Commission has matched people who signed up as hosts with people who signed up as guests. Guests: You will receive your food assignment Sunday, February 18. Hosts: you will receive the number of guests you will host on February 18.

Wednesday Evening Programming
Intersecting Climate Change, Christian Colonialism, & Indigenous Spirituality
On February 21 we will resume our Wednesday evening meal and discussion. For the next six weeks, after the meal, we will explore the intersection of climate change, colonialist Christian theology and indigenous spirituality. Each week, we will have a brief introduction on this theme and time for discussion. Discussions will go through March 27. For an entire outline of the programming, click here.
On the first Sunday of each month, we acknowledge that we live and worship on land that was once cared for by people who were indigenous to this land. Since the arrival of new peoples, this land has changed more than we can imagine. And with a changing climate, it will surely change even more. One of the consequences of the genocide and forced removal of Indigenous peoples is the loss of indigenous wisdom and spirituality, especially in regard to the land and the living things on it.
We hope to gain from this exercise more life affirming interpretations of Christian scriptures and theological understandings and indigenous spirituality that can help us become better stewards of God’s good creation.

My Coins Count Starts this Sunday, February 11, 2024 – Bring your loose change!

Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale (KMRS) is April 12 & 13, 2024 at the Kansas State Fair Grounds in Hutchinson. Your participation supports MCC’s relief, development, and peace-building work around the world.

· Did you know that last year, MCC’s My Coins Count initiative collected over $600,000 for water, food, and other projects around the world? BCMC’s My Coins Count drive begins Sunday, February 11. Place your coins in the jug in the Gathering Place each Sunday. Can you help the children FILL THE JUG with coins (and bills!) by April?

· Check out the posterboard in the Gathering Place for KMRS information and extra forms for the Run for Relief, Quilt Auction, Sale Sponsorship, Friendship Meals, etc.
· A big THANK YOU to BCMC Sunday School classes who help underwrite KMRS costs. Thanks to generous donors, all sale expenses are covered before the sale so proceeds go directly to Mennonite Central Committee programs.
· Friendship Meals (March 3 or March 10) are a great way to meet new people and also contribute to MCC. Signup deadline is next Sun., Feb. 18.
· Many hands worked to create the beautiful quilt hanging in the Gathering Place Feb. 11. You may bid on it in the quilt auction! Additional quilts by BCMC quilters will be on display at church on Sunday morning, March 3.
· Do you have an item to donate to the silent auction, children’s auction, or general auction? The general auction sale bill deadline is February 28. Check the KMRS website for more information or speak with a BCMC liaison.
· For more information, see https://kansas.mccsale.org/ , the posterboard in the Gathering Place, or contact a BCMC liaison: Steve & Elaine Schurr, William & Esther Kreider Eash, and Brad & Diane Born.

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

The Library Theme for the rest of February is highlighting Civil Rights. As always, the adult books can be found in back of the library desk, while the youth/children’s books are displayed against the south wall of the youth library.
As a reminder, puzzles can be found on the puzzle cart outside the library door or on the shelves of the west wall of the library. Please continue to donate to our fund so that when special books are published, we are able to purchase them for our library.
Also, Healing Haunted Histories By Elaine Enns and Myers has disappeared and has not been in the library for almost a year. Please check your books at home to see if you may have forgotten to return it or if you have a copy that you would be willing to donate, we would greatly appreciate it.
Happy Reading/Happy Puzzling!!

Abuse Prevention and Response Committee Update Regarding Dan Baumgartner

On January 5, 2024, the Abuse Prevention and Response Committee (APRC) received an email from Dan Baumgartner stating his intention to attend a service at Bethel College Mennonite Church despite previously communicated restrictions. After receiving input from survivors, reviewing our past communications with Dan, and considering the intentions of our survivor-centered policy, the APRC chose to file a no-trespass order that was delivered to Dan on January 10, 2024, by the North Newton Police Department.

The letter sent to Dan included the following information:

Daniel Baumgartner,

When you decided to not sign a limited use agreement with Bethel College Mennonite Church in 2018, it was made clear to you that you were not to attend any events at or connected to Bethel College Mennonite Church.

Since your refusal to sign a limited use agreement, you have violated our policy by attending multiple events at BCMC. In addition, you recently emailed your intentions to continue to violate our policy and attend events at Bethel College Mennonite Church based upon your own interests.

Because of your past actions and stated intentions that show little regard for boundaries, we are now placing a firm boundary. As of January 10, 2024, we are placing a no-trespass order with the North Newton Police Department against you. You are not allowed to be on church property under any condition.

If you decide to attend any events at Bethel College Mennonite Church, you will be criminally trespassing, and the North Newton Police will be immediately notified of your presence on our property.

We hope you will be able to participate in [future services] by watching [them] online.

If in the future you want to discuss the possibility of signing a limited use agreement and thus be allowed to attend events at Bethel College Mennonite Church, please contact the Abuse Prevention and Response Committee
aprc@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org

In general, anyone who wishes to report any instances of abuse or seek support are encouraged to reach out. Click here for contact information of organizations providing support and reporting. Individuals may also contact the APRC at aprc@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org . The BCMC Abuse Prevention and Response Policy can be found here.

Abuse Prevention and Response Committee of Bethel College Mennonite Church,

Judy Friesen, chair
Dwight Krehbiel
Bethany Schrag
Wes Schmidt-Tieszen
Naomi Krause
Nathan Koontz, pastor

Everence will hold its Medicare workshop at its office, 3179 N. Main St. Suite 1B, North Newton on Thurs., Feb. 15, 6:30 p.m. with topics: when and where to sign up for Medicare, what Medicare covers, an explanation of Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D. Attendance is recommended for those approaching retirement or those ready to sign up for Medicare. If interested in attending contact the Everence office at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com.

Bethel College Announcements
· TODAY (Sun., Feb. 11) – KIPCOR Film Series presents Eroding History, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Afterwards, audience talkback with Dr. Jonathan Frye, professor of natural science at McPherson College; freewill offering taken to support KIPCOR and the film series.
· Sun., Feb. 11 – Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum program at Kauffman Museum, 3 p.m., with Lorna Harder, Hesston, guest curator of the special exhibit “A Day with the Birds: Community Science and the Audubon Christmas Bird Count.” In “Sisters, Scientists, Birders and Friends,” Harder will explore the history of local birding pioneers Dwight Platt, North Newton, and the Ruth sisters of Halstead, how they’ve passed on their legacy through the Christmas Bird Count and how birding brings people together.
· Tues., Feb. 13 – Bethel College Organ Recital Series presents Doug O’Neill in an all-Bach program, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel
· Thurs., Feb. 15 – The public is invited to a forum on local journalism sponsored by Harvey County Now, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Learn how Newton has become an example for local news and why a strong newspaper is critical for a rural community.
· Weds., Feb. 21 – Bethel College Orchestra, directed by Kris Hilding, 7 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center [NOTE DIFFERENT DATE from some previously printed calendars]
· SAVE THE DATE: Sun., March 3, 4 p.m. – Bethel College Choir Spring Tour Send-off Concert

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

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

Spring Cleaning at Camp Mennoscah sponsored by Western District Women in Mission (WDWM) will be held on Saturday, March 23 from 10 am – 4 p.m. Come for part or all of the time. Women, men, kids, youth groups, Sunday school groups are all invited. If children younger than high school attend, they need to be supervised by their parents (no child care or children’s activities will be provided). Dress warm, bring a full water bottle, $5 to cover the cost of lunch, and the following cleaning supplies if you have them: rakes, long handled brooms for cobweb reaching. Other cleaning supplies will be provided. Register by March 18 by e-mailing westerndistrictwomen@gmail.com. Space is capped at this event to manage the jobs, so don’t delay in registering. Thanks!

The Retreat Center is an important part of Camp Mennoscah’s mission to create a sacred space for relationships in God’s creation. The building is used by church groups, families, and kitchen staff, as well as outside groups seeking a peaceful place in nature. Two volunteers are needed every week day (M-F) to continue the work on the Retreat Center project.
Every day there are not volunteers to work with the Retreat Center Project means one day closer to not having the Retreat Center ready by summer, the time when it is most used. It also means that the cost of the project will increase. Please seriously consider volunteering so this building where the camp community gathers is available by June. Work will start at 9am and end at 5pm. Half days are fine. Bring your own lunch and water bottle, please, and meet at the Retreat Center. Park off the edge of the road to the west of the building. Camp Mennoscah will provide tools needed. Space heaters will be used, but temperatures inside may be around 50 degrees.

Please let us know you are coming so we can be prepared. Contact us at 620-297-3290, 316-293-7313 (text) or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org. We are grateful for your generosity as a volunteer. Thank you for helping make the Retreat Center project a reality!
Other events and happenings:

The Summer Staff application form will be closing February 15. Those interested in applying should submit their application soon. Like now would be good. The application for 2024 Summer Staff at Camp Mennoscah can be found here.
Registration for 2024 Summer Youth Camps is open! Staff is still adjusting to the big Retreat Center project and some details are sure to have been missed–but that will not stop you from registering for a great week of camp. The theme for the summer is Linked By Love and looks at the many ways we experience God’s love through relationships. Register online!
The phone system for Camp Mennoscah is changing. The 3014 number will no longer be a camp phone number. The main camp number of 620-297-3290 is the best number to use. The new system will not go in until after the Retreat Center HVAC project is complete.While offices are in the temporary spaces, there will be more limited access to staff by phone. Please leave a message at 620-297-3290 and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Staff hours will be changing and offices have moved from the Retreat Center. These changes are happening with the start of the Retreat Center HVAC Project. Olivia may be pulled to help with the HVAC project, meaning that her office work hours may move to the evening. Some staff will also be working off-site, which changes the frequency of certain office tasks. Thank you for your understanding!
Summer Youth Camps take many hands to make them run. Nurses, head cooks, kitchen staff and maintenance volunteers are needed for every week of camp. The summer camps range from 3 to 6 days and begin June 9. Contact us at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org if you are interested.

Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp Announcements

ROCKY MOUNTAIN SUMMER YOUTH CAMPS – Summer is coming! Come explore our summer theme “What’s the Forecast?” No matter the weather, God is always with us; in the calm, in the storm, and everything in between. This summer we will be looking to Joshua 1:9 and Matthew 28:20 to learn how we can see God in all situations. For more information on camps and to register visit us at rmmc.org (Rates: Best-Before March 1, Better-March 1-May 31, and Good-after May 31). Scholarships are available as to ensure money isn’t a barrier to a summer camp experience at RMMC.

Men’s Retreat: March 1-3, 2024 Spend time with God and fellow men in the beauty of creation as we explore “Doing What We Can’t Not Do”, led by Mike Martin, the founder and Executive Director of RAWtools. When overcome with joy or pain, excitement or grief, we often do and say things we feel we have no other choice but to do or say. This impacts those around us in various ways. Using language from Parker Palmer’s “Let your Life Speak” as well as a recent experience on the Camino de Santiago, Mike will explore identity, wayfinding, and the mystery we experience in following Jesus. On the Friday prior to Men’s Retreat, participants have a tradition of tackling necessary projects at camp. This day of volunteering helps RMMC better serve campers and guests. Register@rmmc.org.

Mennonite Central Committee Announcements
For Mennonite Central Committee “In Touch” press here

Interested in working with MCC, or know someone who is? MCC is hiring a Community Engagement Coordinator!
The Community Engagement Coordinator, in North Newton, KS connects with local churches, individuals, and partners to educate on MCC material resources, programs, and events. Apply at the following link: Community Engagement Coordinator or find the job and other openings at mcc.org/careers.
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MCC Material Resources Center in North Newton critically low on inventory: An MCC kit cannot be distributed until each item for the kit is assembled, but some supplies in the Material Resources Center are so low that kits cannot be processed for shipping. You can help by filling the following needs: new infant sleepers (6-12 month sizes); bath towels (dark colored, light to medium weight); wide-toothed combs; laundry soap (such as Fels Naptha or Zote brands); shampoo (20 oz min); fingernail clippers (good quality); and hand towels (dark colored). Locally, MCC distributes prisoner care and returning citizen care kits, for those kits we currently need: men’s T-shirts (sizes L, XL, 2XL, 3XL — any color); men’s underwear (sizes L, XL, 2XL, 3XL — any color); men’s crew socks; lotion (12 oz min); and adult backpacks. Buy online and ship it to MCC or bring items to MCC in North Newton (121 E. 30^th St, North Newton, KS 67117). Questions are always welcome, please contact brociamueller@mcc.org or 316.283.2720. A full list of MCC kit contents can be found at mcc.org/kits.

Global Voices Tour, MCC and the Anabaptist Climate Collaborative bring you Climate Action for Peace at Kidron Hall in North Newton on Monday, Feb. 26 at 2 p.m. Join us to hear MCC partners Caroline Pugeni from Zimbabwe and Victor Odinda from Cambodia share about how their work supports people in adapting to the challenges of climate change.

For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here

Bluestem Communities Announcement
The spring semester of Bluestem U will begin in March. Bluestem U is a lifelong learning program for individuals age 55 and better, and is a partnership between Bluestem Communities, Bethel College and Hesston College. Each course is $50. Registration is available at bluestemu.org. Spring 2024 courses are:

“Diversity in American theatre,” taught by Lauren Friesen; Mondays, March 18 – April 15, 10 a.m. to noon, Kidron Bethel Village Kaye Penner Education Center
“When ‘Just Do It’ doesn’t work!” taught by Kevin Wilder; Thursdays, March 21 – April 18, 10 to 11:30 a.m., Schowalter Villa Chapel
“Climate Change: Hope, Effective Action and Climate Justice,” taught by Dwight Krehbiel; Tuesdays, April 2 – May 7, 1 to 2:30 p.m., Kidron Bethel Village Kaye Penner Education Center

Mennonite Heritage & Agricultural Museum, Goessel, Ks:

We continue the 150th As part of the 150th Anniversary celebration of the migration of Mennonites to Kansas on February 18, 2024. Dr. Mark Jantzen, professor of history at Bethel college, will present “Fifty-Three Years in the Russian Empire: The Context for Mennonites in the Years 1821 to1874.” The event will be held February 18, 2024, at 3 pm, at Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church, Goessel, Ks.
Mark Jantzen grew up on a dairy farm near Beatrice, Nebraska and is a graduate of Bethel College. He served with Mennonite Central Committee in East Germany and in Serbia. He has been teaching European and Mennonite history at Bethel College since 2001. Among his books are The Wrong Side of the Wall: An American in East Berlin during the Peaceful Revolution, Mennonite German Soldiers: Nation, Religion, and Family in the Prussian East, 1772-1880, and most recently, European Mennonites and the Holocaust, co-editedwith John D. Thiesen. He has led student tours to Eastern Europe and leads an annual Mennonite Experience in Poland history tour.

Join us in person or by zoom.

Zoom link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86167911311?pwd=VUZWbHlRMVlLa0Y3TlR1VWhlZEhiUT09

Meeting ID 861 6791 1311

Passcode 473902

Ulrich Zwingli Film to be Shown February 18
We have a rare opportunity to see a film about Ulrich Zwingli, a priest in the Reformed Grossmunster Church in Switzerland, who opened scripture to the common man. The movie opened in Switzerland and topped the box office there in 2019. It has been released in cinemas around the world and Swiss Mennonite Cultural and Historical Association has permission to show it here. Now translated into English and brought to the U.S., the film is seen through the eyes of his wife, Anna. Zwingli is shown demanding that what is in the Bible should be taken seriously. This 90 minute movie with English sub-titles doesn’t flinch from the harsher circumstances including the split between Zwingli and the Anabaptists including Felix Mantz and Konrad Grebel. Zwingli’s said: “To be a Christian does not mean chattering about Christ, but rather to lead a life as Christ lived.” Anna is caught between the doctrines of Catholic Church and what she reads in Scripture.

“The Reformer” movie will be shown at the First Mennonite Church of Christian in Moundridge, KS, at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 18, 2024. There is no charge and all are welcome. No reservations are necessary.

Swiss Volhynian Mennonites and related groups are celebrating the 150th anniversary of the coming in 1874 of their ancestors to the U.S., through many events leading up to the August 23-25, 2024 celebration. Come see this movie and think about a piece of early Anabaptist history.

–Kathy Goering for the 150th committee

Volunteer Opportunity

Peace Connections and Harvey County Circle of Hope are looking for Volunteer Allies to match with individuals or families who are on the journey out of poverty. If YOU would like to provide intentional friendship to someone as they work toward their goals and write hope into their future story, please join us on Tuesday evenings to learn more. This is a great opportunity to build resources and grow connections, as well as increase economic stability in our community. The Volunteer Ally listens and encourages, without judgment, to Circle Leaders working to make positive changes in their life, and a focus on future goals during their 18-month match!
Check out more information at www.peaceconnections.org/volunteer or 316-284-0000.

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

Mennonite Church USA Administration has named Jolene VonGunten as executive administrative assistant, serving the Executive Board and staff, the Constituency Leaders Council, the Governance Council, the Joint Executive Committee, and Human Resources. She also is continuing to serve part-time as executive assistant and communications coordinator for Mennonite Education Agency. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/vongunten-exec-admin-assistant

Menno Snapshots

When sorting through a donation to the MC USA Archives last summer, Olivia Krall, archives coordinator for MC USA, came across the story of WWI conscientious objector Guy O. Graber. She shares some of her findings here: mennoniteusa.org/graber-objector

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

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network has launched a new fellowship and learning program, Just Peace Pilgrimages, to help participants enter more fully into God’s justice and shalom. Pray that God’s spirit will prepare the hearts and minds of all who join in the healing work of dismantling the oppressive structures in the United States.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC congregations and listening teams participating in WDC’s conference-wide listening process to learn how God is at work in a diversity of church contexts, and to consider what resources WDC can offer to support congregational hopes and priorities for the future.

February 4, 2024 Worship Service and Announcements

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
Worship Service and Announcements for February 4, 2024
Our faith in a God of love leads us, by the power of the Spirit,
to follow Jesus in doing justice, loving mercy,
and walking humbly with God.

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
February 4, 2024

Christ Candle Lighting

Centering Music— I’m Bound for the Promised Land (arr. Bish)—Will Wiebe-Friesen

Land Acknowledgement—Esther Kreider Eash

Welcome and Prayer—Esther Kreider Eash

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

Kin-dom Report—Junior High Youth Report on Snow Camp at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp
Children’s Conversation—Junior High Youth

Anthem—Give to Our God Immortal Praise (John Ferguson)— Chancel Choir; Riley King, director; Will Wiebe-Friesen, accompanist

Kin-dom Report—Anti-Racism Training—Elizabeth Schmidt and Lil Peters

Scripture Reading—Mark 1:29-39—Abby Koontz

Sermon—Journey Inward, Journey Outward—Roger Neufeld Smith

*Hymn—Lead Me, Guide Me—VT 601

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—Come Walk With Us—VT 23

Benediction

Postlude—March on a Gregorian Theme (A. Guilmant)—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/OSHhgTNhf7I?feature=share

This Week at BCMC: February 4—11, 2024
Sunday, February 4, 2024
9:30 a.m.    Worship    YouTube Link for this Sunday:
https://youtube.com/live/OSHhgTNhf7I?feature=share

Sunday is Willye Hinz ‘s 98th birthday. Come share a piece of birthday cake with her after worship with your coffee in The Gathering Place.

10:45 a.m. Faith Formation
The church nursery is staffed during worship and Sunday School
10:45 am Faith Formation—Intergenerational class meets in Room 26;   High School-Room 24    Adult Classes: Agape Class meets in the nursery; Bible Study (Rm 14); Catacombs (Rm B5); Fellowship (B7); Fine Arts (Rm 22); Issues and Christianity (Rm 23); Open Circle (Room 21) Seekers (Rm 28)
Monday, February 5, 2024
10 a.m. Library Committee meeting in Room 14
Tuesday, February 6, 2024
11 a.m.     Staff meeting
Wednesday, February 7, 2024
7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir Rehearsal in the sanctuary
Thursday, February 8, 2024
6:30 p.m.   Chancel Bells Rehearsal in Room B-7
7 p.m.         Finance Committee meeting in Room 14
7:30 p.m.   Hospitality Commission meeting in Fellowship Hall
Sunday, February 11, 2024
9:30 a.m.     Worship with sermon by Julianna Schrag; Junior High Super Bowl Fundraiser in the Gathering Place
10:45 a.m. Faith Formation

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

Roger’s Whereabouts: Roger will drive back to Topeka this Sunday afternoon (2/4). He will return to Newton on Wed., Feb. 21. Whether he’s in Newton or Topeka, Roger checks his email and cell phone regularly, so feel free to contact him via email, text or phone (785-220-1968).

BCMC Offering for January 28, 2024: General $14,267; Plant Fund $50; Caring Fund $25; Kitchen Fund $11.50; Solar Fund $3,250; Sr Hi Youth Fund $3,700

Thank you. A brush with death makes one appreciate the sanctity of life. Thanks to all for the many acts of kindness during the whole month of January for prayers, cards, phone calls, texts, emails, visits, food, the prayer shawl–so special, friends that helped out at my home, etc. Healing and getting strength back from RSV. Virus and pneumonia bacteria is predicted to take 6-8 weeks. Don’t get RSV. It is relentless on old bodies.
Marlene V. Faul

GOING BEYOND LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT (First Sunday Report from Task Group for Indigenous Justice):
The Repair Network BCMC has joined provides learning activities, actions, contacts and networking for its members. Darlene Dick, Margaret Toews, and Raylene Hinz-Penner participated in a six-session Minnesota/Kansas Learning Circle (Zoom) to help us build repair communities in Kansas and Minnesota. The Learning Circle builds networks with others in our own states and provides access to powerful Indigenous leaders. The Repair Network hopes to build repair communities in various Kansas regions including Newton/North Newton. We will be asking for your help in inviting others in our region. Members of the Task Group are also participating in a four-session book study with the authors Sarah Augustine and Sheri Hostetler on their new book, So We and Our Children May Live: Following Jesus in Confronting the Climate Crisis; we hope to offer book study possibilities in our own congregation soon. See Mark Charles interview of Augustine and Hostetler at this link:
My Second Cup of Coffee: A Conversation with Sarah Augustine and Sheri Hostetler, co-authors of …
The Oak Flat campaign is ramping up, and we will be offering petitions and other actions for participation to our congregation. Talk to members of the Task Group about your interests and requests: Darlene Dick, Janet Friesen, Raylene Hinz-Penner, Karin Kaufman Wall, Lyn Krause, Doug Penner, Ada Schmidt-Tieszen, Dale Schrag, Margaret Toews.

Land Acknowledgement 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.

From the Church Board: At the congregational meeting on Sunday, January 28, the budget for 2024 was approved as were several additional proposals. Specific wording of these proposals can be found in the annual meeting’s booklet as well as several past bulletin announcements. After an editorial change of the last “and” to “or”, the proposal to revise the Welcoming Statement was approved with 90 Yes votes and 1 No vote. The proposal for a new model of leadership (moderator elect, moderator, and past moderator) passed with 92 Yes votes and 1 No vote. The proposal to install solar panels on our church roof passed with 85 Yes votes and 4 No votes. Overwhelming support for the project in terms of funds pledged (approximately $180,000) was reported. We’re grateful for the extensive background research, hard work, and advocacy of the Creation Care Committee’s subcommittee of Dwight Krehbiel, Lorna Harder, and Hugo Boschmann; the assistance with collaboration and communication from Margaret Toews and Jon Zerger of the Board; and the advice and collaboration of the Finance Committee (LaVern Stucky, Jerry Buller, Margaret Goering, Jeanette Leary, and John Zerger). We look forward to a good year ahead!

The Search Committee has been hard at work in an effort to fill BCMC’s open Co-Pastor position. The Committee has identified possible candidates and is in the process of conducting interviews. We will continue to update the congregation as our progress continues. In the meantime, we appreciate your continued patience and prayers.

Thanks to Heather Esau Zerger and the rest of the committee–Doug Penner, Megan Kohlman, John Waltner, and Lois Preheim– for assertively taking initiative in search and recruitment.

From Pastor for Congregational Care, Elizabeth Schmidt

Richard Siemens is receiving hospice care in Healthcare at Kidron Bethel Village, following a fall, broken hip and hospitalization. Pray for Richard and his family, especially Doug and LuAnn, and Charlotte and David, to rest in God’s comforting presence as Richard journeys home to his Maker, Defender, Redeemer, and Friend.

Future February Events at BCMC:
· February 14, 2024, 6:30 p.m.—Ash Wednesday Service in the Sanctuary
· February 18, 2024, 9:30 a.m.—First Sunday in Lent
· February 21, 2024, 6 p.m.—Wednesday night suppers begin—more details will follow
· February 25, 2024, 9:30 a.m.—Second Sunday in Lent and at noon, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” is a way for BCMC folks to get acquainted with other BCMC folks that they might not know very well. The Hospitality Commission will match people who sign up as hosts with people who sign up as guests. Guests: You will receive your food assignment Sunday, February 18. Hosts: you will receive the number of guests you will host on February 18.

Memorial Services at BCMC
· The memorial service for Nancy Hilty has been re-scheduled to Sat., March 9, 11 a.m. followed by a light lunch in fellowship hall.
· The memorial service for Don Kaufman will be Sat., April 13, 11 a.m. followed by a light lunch in fellowship hall.

BEWARE OF A SCAM TEXT!

There seems to be a scam text going around that says it is from Pastor Nathan Koontz. The text asks for help and also may ask for the purchase of gift cards. This is a scam. Do not reply to this text. If you are in doubt, call the church office. Be sure to delete the text from your phone.
Monica Lichti in the BCMC office

Bethel College Announcements

· Feb. 7, 9:30 a.m. Life Enrichment meets at Krehbiel Auditorium, Fine Arts Center with two sessions: 9:30 a.m. “The Story of the Stone Creek Family Farm,” Loretta and Ryan Kucharo, Halstead, and 10:30 a.m. “How to Spot a Scam So You Don’t Fall For It!” with Michael Schwanke, news anchor, KWCH Channel 12, Wichita
· Last week to experience “Forest Listening,” a sound art installation by Liz K. Miller, in the Regier Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Exhibit closes Fri., Feb. 9 (no reception). Gallery hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays.
· Sun., Feb. 11 – KIPCOR Film Series presents Eroding History, 2 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Audience talkback with Dr. Jonathan Frye, professor of natural science at McPherson College, follows the screening; freewill offering will be taken to support KIPCOR and the film series.
· Sun., Feb. 11 – Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum program at Kauffman Museum, 3 p.m., with Lorna Harder, Hesston, guest curator of the special exhibit “A Day with the Birds: Community Science and the Audubon Christmas Bird Count.” In “Sisters, Scientists, Birders and Friends,” Harder will explore the history of local birding pioneers Dwight Platt, North Newton, and the Ruth sisters of Halstead, how they’ve passed on their legacy through the Christmas Bird Count, and how birding brings people together.
· Tues., Feb. 13 – Bethel College Organ Recital Series presents Douglas O’Neill in an all-Bach program, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel

Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale (KMRS) is April 12 & 13, 2024 at the Kansas State Fair Grounds in Hutchinson. This year’s theme is “Sowing seeds of hope, seeds of Love.”
· BCMC Sunday School classes help underwrite KMRS costs. All expenses are covered before the sale so 100% of sale profit goes directly to Mennonite Central Committee.
· Start collecting your coins! BCMC’s My Coins Count drive begins February 11.
· Friendship Meals (March 3 or March 10) are a great way to meet new people and also contribute to MCC. Signup to be a host or a guest by February 18. Green forms are in the Gathering Place.
· Run for Relief entry forms are available–sign up to run, walk, jog, or to be a sponsor. You can now even participate virtually!
· Do you have a quilt to donate, or are you considering bidding on a quilt? Quilts by BCMC quilters will be on display at church on Sunday, March 3.
· Consider donating furniture, quilts, vehicles, or children’s items for the auctions. Check the KMRS website for more information.
· For more information, see https://kansas.mccsale.org/, the posterboard in the Gathering Place, or contact a BCMC liaison: Steve & Elaine Schurr, William & Esther Kreider Eash, and Brad & Diane Born.

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

Everence^® February workshop: Make Medicare an Easy Step
Everence will hold its popular Medicare workshop at its office in North Newton on Thursday, February 15 at 6:30 p.m. Topics will include, when and where to sign up for Medicare, what Medicare covers, plus an explanation of Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D. Attendance is recommended for those approaching retirement or those ready to sign up for Medicare.
The in-person workshop will be held at the Everence office: 3179 N. Main St. Suite 1B, North Newton. Those interested in attending should contact the Everence office at 316-283-3800, 877-467-7294 or central.kansas@everence.com.

The 16th annual MCC Comforter Blitz will be March 4-6 near Yoder. Check mcc.org/comforter-blitz or the Kansas MCC Comforter Blitz page on Facebook. The blitz will be Mon., March 4 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Tues., March 5 from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. and Wed., March 6 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at 3605 East Longview Rd., Haven. Contact brociamueller@mcc.org with questions.

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

WDC Gifts Discernment Committee Announcement – The WDC Gifts Discernment Committee is at work again seeking to identify leaders for the conference. While we always welcome any nominations or suggestions of people who might have leadership gifts to share, this year we are specifically looking again for help in discerning nominees for the role of Moderator-elect. Please prayerfully consider if there is someone in your community (or yourself) who might be called to this important leadership role in the conference. Suggestions or nominations can be shared (English here) / (Español aqui) or emailed to wdc@mennowdc.org! Thank you!

Western District Conference forwarded this announcement of a free webinar series on disaster preparedness for faith communities from Crisis Care Ministries, an extension ministry of the Oklahoma Conference of the United Methodist Church. Kevin King, Executive Director of Mennonite Disaster Service, affirms this resource and notes that the United Methodist Church has been a strong partner with MDS in the work of disaster recovery, through funding, expertise and case management. We encourage representatives from your congregation to consider registering for this webinar series, as you care for your church members and the wider community.

Dear Colleagues,

Faith and community leaders are early responders to crises within their communities. The Trauma-Informed Faith Communities project of Crisis Care Ministries can help you be more trauma-informed and prepared in 2024.
Register here for the live webinar series, Navigating Storm Season. Prepare for spring storm season with brief webinars provided by experienced partners from Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster. The series goes live on February 6 through 27, Tuesdays, at 10:00 to 11:00 AM Central Time. Register only once to sign up for all Navigating Storm Season sessions, attending as you are able.

Topics include:
- February 6, 2024 – Individual and Family Disaster Preparedness
- February 13, 2024 – From Disaster Preparedness Through Long-Term Recovery
- February 20, 2024 – Faith Community Disaster Preparedness
- February 27, 2024 – First Things to Know About Disaster Emotional and Spiritual Care

The Trauma-Informed Faith Communities project is designed to strengthen the capacity of faith and community leaders to better respond to individuals and communities affected by and at risk for experiencing numerous crises and disasters. For the project home page, click here.
Click here for the Webinar and Training Archives with previous webinar videos and resources.
For questions about the Navigating Storm Season webinar series, email crisiscare@earthlink.net or call 405-530-2071.

We’re looking forward to seeing you in February!
Blessings,
Mary Gaudreau Hughes
Crisis Care Ministries

Prairie View Mental Health Center Announcements

Prairie View is having several events coming up in the next couple of months and we want you to join us!

Lunch and Learn February 7, 2024 at 12:00pm
This is your chance to gain insights, share experiences, and celebrate the vital role of school counselors in shaping educational journeys. To secure your spot, don’t forget to RSVP to the ever-awesome Ashleigh Hollis at

hollisar@pvi.org.
Come be a part of the discussion, connect with fellow educators, and let’s celebrate the impact of school counseling together!

Freddy’s Give Back Night February 20, 2024 5:00pm-9:00pm

Prairie View Inc. will receive 15% of fundraiser sales during this fundraiser to help us continue providing behavioral healthcare in our community. Participate on Feb 20, 2024 from 5:00pm to 9:00pm by ordering digitally or at the physical Freddy’s restaurant, 520 SE 14th St

Newton, KS 67114. To participate digitally, order on the Freddy’s mobile app or website using the code GIVEBACK. To participate at the restaurant, tell the cashier of your participation (before payment) or show the fundraiser flyer below to the cashier (before payment).

Prairie View 70^th Anniversary Gala and Silent Auction March 16, 2024 at 5:00pm
For seven decades, Prairie View has been a beacon of hope, illuminating the heart of Kansas. Join us in commemorating this milestone at the Prairie View 70th Anniversary Gala and Silent Auction!

Date: March 16, 2024

Time: 5:00 PM

Venue: Bethel College Memorial Hall

Indulge in an evening of celebration, reflection, and community. Your presence is the key to making this gala truly special.

Tickets: $70

RSVP by March 1st to Ashleigh Hollis:

hollisar@pvi.org

316-284-6379

Chicken-N-Pickle Give Back Night

Prairie View Inc. will receive 10% of fundraiser sales during this fundraiser to help us continue providing behavioral healthcare in our community. Participate on March 26, 2024 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. Join us at Chicken-N-Pickle (1240 N Greenwich Rd, Wichita, KS 67206) for good food, conversation and a game of pickle ball!

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

Two volunteers are needed every week day (M-F) to continue the work on the Retreat Center project. Work will start at 9am and end at 5pm. Bring your own lunch and water bottle, please, and meet at the Retreat Center. Park nose-first to the wooden fence. Camp Mennoscah will provide tools needed. Space heaters will be used, but temperatures inside may be around 50 degrees. Please let us know you are coming so we can be prepared. Contact us at 620-297-3290, 316-293-7313 (text) or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org. We are grateful for your generosity as a volunteer. Thank you for helping make the Retreat Center project a reality!

Other events and happenings:

Registration for 2024 Summer Youth Camps is open! Staff is still adjusting to the big Retreat Center project and some details are sure to have been missed–but that will not stop you from registering for a great week of camp. The theme for the summer is Linked By Love and looks at the many ways we experience God’s love through relationships. Register online!
The phone system for Camp Mennoscah is changing. The 3014 number will no longer be a camp phone number. The main camp number of 620-297-3290 is the best number to use. The new system will not go in until after the Retreat Center HVAC project is complete.While offices are in the temporary spaces, there will be more limited access to staff by phone. Please leave a message at 620-297-3290 and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Staff hours will be changing and offices have moved from the Retreat Center. These changes are happening with the start of the Retreat Center HVAC Project. Olivia may be pulled to help with the HVAC project, meaning that her office work hours may move to the evening. Some staff will also be working off-site, which changes the frequency of certain office tasks. Thank you for your understanding!
Interviews for the 2024 Summer Staff are underway! Summer staff must be 18 years old or older. The staff leadership positions receiving stipends are naturalist, crafts leader, lifeguard, grounds/maintenance, music leader, and office/media. Get your application in soon, but applications will be accepted until all positions are filled. The 2024 summer camp season begins with orientation for summer-long positions on June 2 and ends August 4. The application for 2024 Summer Staff at Camp Mennoscah can be found here.
Summer Youth Camps take many hands to make them run. Nurses, head cooks, kitchen staff and maintenance volunteers are needed for every week of camp. The summer camps range from 3 to 6 days and begin June 9. Contact us at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org if you are interested.
We are so excited to share with you the catalog for the 2024 Camp Mennoscah season! Fun-filled summer days await you at Camp Mennoscah where we are ready to welcome campers new and old to come build their house upon the Rock while they play in the sand.

Attached to this email you will find a digital copy of our catalog, and we welcome you to register here for the upcoming summer season! Detailed information about our Summer Youth Camps and our Program Directors can be found here, on the Camp Mennoscah website.

We’re looking forward to a fantastic and joy-filled 2024 and hope that you will be able to join us.

If you have any questions about any of our upcoming retreats, the registration process, or Camp Mennoscah in general, don’t hesitate to reach out! We would love to hear from you and hope to see you soon.

Camp Mennoscah Staff

For Catalog press here

For Mennonite Men “Engage” press here
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here

From Mennonite Central Committee

Feb. 23: MCC High School Essay Contest – Are you a youth who attends a Mennonite high school or an Anabaptist church? This is your opportunity to express your views in essay format on critical issues facing U.S. society. Submissions are due Feb. 23, 2024, and may be in English or Spanish. The grand prize is $1000! Find out more about the high school essay contest.  https://mcc.org/events/high-school-essay-contest Submit essays to centralstates@mcc.org.

March 10-15: MCC Young adult Peace Camp in Black Forest, Colorado – Join us for an incredible week of hands-on peacebuilding training in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado Springs! MCC’s Peacebuilders Training is a learning experience for young adults hungry to connect with other young adults; root themselves in intentional, theological reflection; and apply that to the real-world work of peace and justice in their communities. Find out more and register for the Peace Camp. https://mcc.org/get-involved/peace-camps

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
In celebration of Black History Month (February), Mennonite Church USA invites you to discover the people and events that have helped shape our denomination. Visit MC USA’s African American Mennonite History Timeline here: mennoniteusa.org/african-american-mennonite-history-timeline/

Menno Snapshots

Karla Stoltzfus Detweiler, climate justice coordinator for Mennonite Church USA, looks at the role of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as an early leader in the environmental justice movement and provides suggested actions to honor his legacy. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/mlk/

Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Join Mennonite Mission Network in praising God for Matthew and Toni Krabill’s four years of ministry at the Paris Mennonite Center in France. Pray for them as they move to Ghana this month, where Matthew will supervise research and develop curricula at The Sanneh Institute, and Toni will discern what God is calling her to next.

Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray that God would nurture faith, wisdom and spiritual growth as members and friends of WDC engage materials in the WDC Resource Library.

Worship and announcements for January 28, 2024

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

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

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

Christ Candle Lighting

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

Welcome and Prayer—Dorothy Nickel Friesen

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

Children’s Conversation—Jeanette Stucky

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

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

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

*Hymn—Beloved, God’s Chosen—VT 164

Prayers of God’s People

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

Birthday Blessing & Benediction

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SOUP LUNCH AND CONGREGATIONAL MEETING SUNDAY – JANUARY 28, 2024

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

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

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

Following are the proposals to be presented at the meeting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Proposals for Action at the Congregational Meeting

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

BCMC Financial Reports

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Camp Mennoscah Announcements

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

Other events and happenings:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mennonite Church USA Announcements

Menno Snapshots

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

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

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

Worship and Announcements for January 21, 2024

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

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

Extreme Fall Danger for Sunday Morning Worship

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

From the staff of Bethel College Mennonite Church

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

Christ Candle Lighting

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

Welcome and Prayer—Jon Zerger

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

Children’s Conversation—Kevin Neufeld

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

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

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

*Hymn—O God, Great Womb—VT 176

Child Blessing for Elizabeth Robb—VT 970

Prayers of God’s People

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

Benediction

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

* You are invited to stand
VT—Voices Together

Keyboard- Will Wiebe-Friesen
Audio visual—Ken Lamp

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

This Week at BCMC: January 21—28, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp Announcements

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

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

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

Menno Snapshots

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

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

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

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

Worship Service and Announcements for January 14, 2024

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

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

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

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

Christ Candle Lighting

Welcome and Prayer—Raylene Hinz-Penner

Hymn—Guide My Feet—VT 816

Children’s Conversation—Glen Ediger

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

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

Sermon—Lessons from Ordinary Heroes—Roger Neufeld Smith

Hymn—Precious Lord—VT 610

Prayers of God’s People

Hymn—Lift Every Voice–VT 611

Benediction

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

Audio-visual—Francis Toews

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

This Week at BCMC: January 14—21, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other events and happenings:

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

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

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

For Mennonite World Conference press here

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

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

Menno Snapshots

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

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

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

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

Worship and Announcements for January 7, 2024

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

BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
January 7, 2024
Epiphany

Christ Candle Lighting

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

Land Acknowledgement

Welcome and Prayer—Dale Schrag

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

Children’s Conversation—Trent Voth

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

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

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

*Hymn—Spirit of the Living God—VT 740

Prayers of God’s People

*Hymn—O Beautiful Star of Bethlehem—VT 275

Benediction

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

* You are invited to stand

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Greetings!

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

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

Warm regards,

Alain Epp Weaver

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

Menno Snapshots

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

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

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

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

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

Announcements for December 31, 2023–January 7, 2024

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

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

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

Welcome and Prayer —Roger Neufeld Smith

Hymn—Come Away from Rush and Hurry—VT 9

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

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

*Advent Litany—Christ—VT 916

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

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

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

Scripture Reading—Luke 2:22-40

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

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

Meditation—Roger Neufeld Smith

*Hymn—Joy to the World—VT 240

Prayers of God’s People

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

Benediction—VT 1064

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For the questionnaire and more information click here

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

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

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

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

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

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

From Mennonite Mission Network year end message press here

Mennonite Church USA Announcements
Menno Snapshots

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

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

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

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

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Announcements and Worship Service for December 24, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

*Advent Litany—Joy—VT 916

Welcome and Prayer—Nathan Koontz

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

Children’s Christmas Service—Sing and Tell the Story

*Hymn—With Mary Sing Magnificat—VT 208

Prayers of God’s People

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

Benediction

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

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

SING AND TELL THE STORY!

SCENES AND SONGS

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

STORY TELLERS AND SINGERS

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

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

THANKS

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

AND PARENTS!

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

For the bulletin for the Lessons Carols Service press here

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

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

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

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

BCMC Programs

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

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

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

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

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

Questionnaire for the Solar Project

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

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

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

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

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

Menno Snapshots

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

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

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

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

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!

Announcements and Worship Service for December 17, 2023

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

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

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

Advent Candle Lighting—Coralee Shenk, Jeanette & Steve Stucky

*Advent Litany—Love—VT 916

Welcome and Prayer—Esther Kreider Eash

*Hymn—O Come, O Come Immanuel—VT 210

Children’s Conversation—Esther Koontz

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

Scripture Reading—John 1:1-9

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

Scripture Reading—I John 4:7-12

Sermon—God’s Love Revealed—Roger Neufeld Smith

*Hymn—Love Came Down at Christmas—VT 255

Prayers of God’s People

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

*Hymn Love Has Come—VT 258

Benediction

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

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

Used by permission from MennoMedia and Herald Press

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Public Witness in Wichita for Gaza Ceasefire, December 19

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For Anabaptist Disabilities Network press here

For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here

For Eastern Mennonite Seminary Shalom Collaboratory press here

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

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

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

Menno Snapshots

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

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

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