Weekly Announcements

Please note that the Live Nativity Costume Fitting Day has been moved to Saturday November 23^rd.

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 67              Sunday November 17, 2024                      No. 46

Sunday November 17, 2024

The Gospel is about the God who overcomes death

Prelude/Accompanist: Katie Wagler                Song Leader: Caleb Leis

Greeters: Gwen & Dan Matthews           Worship Leader: Pastor Ray

Audio/Visual: Drystan Bender/Larry Kropf       Offering: Leadership

Coffee Hosts: Brett Zehr & Ryan Wagler          Message: Pastor Mike                 

Prelude                                     

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer

Songs of Gathering & Praise                 VT #129 “O Worship Our God”

VT #398 “Thy Word Is a Lamp” 

Offering – Leadership

Sharing & Prayer of the Church 

Time with the Children – Kristen Cressman        

Scripture Reading: John 11:17-44

Message – Pastor Mike  

Song of Response                       VT #517 “Children of the Heavenly Father”  

Time of Remembering                         

Sending Song                                        VT #718 “Gentle Shepherd, Come and Lead Us”                                                                      

Benediction

Postlude

Service of Remembering

During our worship service this Sunday, we will take time to remember those who have died this past year by naming their names and lighting a candle in memory of them. As in previous years we plan to name our congregational members, along with other close family members (siblings, parents, children) of our congregational members.

If you have experienced another significant loss through death this year and wish to have that person named in our service, please contact Pastor Ray before Sunday morning.

Today

Coffeetime in the basement immediately following worship. Everyone is welcome. We would ask that everyone provides their own mug to help simplify the preparation and clean up time. We will provide mugs for those who forget theirs or who come as guests on a Sunday morning.

11 a.m. Sunday School classes for children and youth. Adults are invited to conversation during coffee time. 

12 p.m. Private Party

This Coming Week

Tuesday November 19^th

• 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. Prayer Shawl at Jean MacDonald’s (182 Rudy Ave, Tavistock). Anyone interested in joining us for knit and chat is always welcome.

Wednesday November 20^th   

• 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Coffee and Bible Study
• E Z Play Group setup
• 6 p.m. SCRC Meeting
• 7 p.m. Gift Discernment Committee Meeting

Thursday November 21^st                

• 9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group
• 7 – 9 p.m.  Games night – Come for an informal night of games or puzzles in the church basement. Bring along games or puzzles to enjoy with people of all ages.
• 7:30 p.m. Finance & Facility Meeting 

Friday November 22^nd 

• MYF – Girls Night/Guys Night

Saturday November 23^rd 

• 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Live Nativity Costume Fitting Day
• 1 p.m. Live Nativity Set Building

Next Sunday – November 24, 2024

Prelude/Accompanist: Bethany Zehr               Song Leader: Myron Ruby

Greeters: Dawn & Greg Zehr                           Worship Leader: Tracey Kropf

Audio/Visual: Dathan Bender/Brian Wagler      Offering: Local Ministries

Coffee Hosts: Kristen & Daryl Cressman           Message: Phil Wagler                 

12:30 p.m. Private Party

EZMC Announcements

Saturday December 7^th 5-8 p.m. Live Nativity (Weather date Sunday December 8) 

Thanks to everyone who has volunteered to help make this event happen! 

There is still time to get involved so please contact Sheryl or Kim directly if you are interested. Please note the following important dates: 

Saturday November 23^rd Please note New Date for costume fitting 

• 10 am – 4 pm Costume Day. Please stop by the church during this time to get fitted for your costume. Please come with your winter gear so that costumes can be fitted properly! This includes coats, snowpants, mitts, boots, hats – just in case it gets cold 
• 1 p.m. Set Building. Please contact Joe Wagler if you can help with this.

Saturday November 30^th

• 8 a.m. Sets will be put in place. Please contact Joe Wagler if you can help with this.

Sunday December 1 

• 12:00-12:30 pm Walk Through – We will do a quick walk through of the set for all characters and guides who can attend 

Saturday December 14^th

• 8 a.m. Sets will be removed and put away. Please contact Joe Wagler if you can help with this.

Please also promote this event with others so that we can share the Christmas story with many!

Thursday November 28^th 6 p.m. Adult Fellowship Christmas Dinner followed with a Christmas Concert by Menno Valley Sound. Tickets are $45 and are available during coffeetime or from committee members Shirley & Phil Ruby, Laurel & Ray Zehr or Carol & Owen Cook. Please be at church and seated before 6 pm so the meal can start promptly at 6. The last day to purchase tickets has been extended to Thursday November 21^st.

You are invited to support a local family this Christmas

Tavistock Assistance Program (TAP) is busy preparing for the holiday season and would like to thank those who have reached out to enquire about supporting a family or individual in our community through gift giving this Christmas. If you would like to support this program by purchasing gifts for a family, donating funds for gifts, or volunteering to wrap gifts, we welcome you to reach out to TAP by November 22 at tapisforyou@outlook.com or (519)655-3500. 

Beyond our Church Community

Hillcrest Mennonite Church is 60 Years Old! As part of our celebrations and acknowledgement, we have printed a 60 Year Anniversary Book, highlighting some of the events and stories that make up the people who have called Hillcrest home, written by Glenn Zehr. We will have an official book launch on Sunday November 17. Worship begins at 9:45 with a focus on celebrating these 60 years. Some of the 50^th Anniversary exhibits will be on display again. The book launch will start at 10:45 AM. Autographed books will be available for $20.00 each. Following our celebrations, all are invited join together for a potluck meal.

If you are unable to join us and would like a copy of the book, contact Marietta at office@hillcrestmc.ca or by phone 519-662-1577.

Sunday November 17^th 2 p.m. – Free Concert for Kids Community Event at St. Jacobs Mennonite Church. Musicians of the KW Symphony present Music for Horn and Harp, an introduction to these instruments featuring a selection of classical, popular, and folk songs. Refreshments to follow. For more info contact Pauline at church@sjmc.on.ca

Sunday November 17^th 3 p.m. Menno Singers hosts its Annual Messiah Sing-Along with soloists and orchestra. (St Matthews Lutheran Church, 54 Benton St, Kitchener): Bring a score, sit in parts and join your voices to sing (or come and listen). Admittance by donation.

Thursday November 21^st – Saturday November 23^rd

Villages Festival – Crafted by hand, inspired by purpose

Join us for a special event featuring fair trade treasures and social enterprise products from around the world! Shop unique handcrafted items from Ten Thousand Villages, enjoy delicious Raw Carrot soup, and discover beautiful creations from Niska Artisans. Don’t miss this chance to support artisans globally and locally, all while finding meaningful gifts for the holiday season.

This pop-up sale recreates the beloved Ten Thousand Villages Festival sales—back by popular demand!

High School Students! Are you thinking of attending the University of Waterloo? On Saturday, November 25 from 10-5, attend the UWaterloo Open House and stop by the Conrad Grebel University College residence, right on the UWaterloo campus. Learn about the supportive residence environment that this small and vibrant faith-based community can provide for students studying in any faculty or program at UWaterloo. uwaterloo.ca/grebel/tour

Sunday December 1^st 7:30 p.m. You are invited to attend the Area Churches Christmas Choir Concert at Steinmann Mennonite Church (1316 Snyder’s Rd W Baden). There will be a freewill offering in support of Mennonite Central Committee’s Meat Canning Project. Doors open at 7 pm.

Sunday December 8^th 7:30 p.m. Menno Singers with Artistic Director Brandon Leis invites you to a service of Lessons and Carols, with choral music for the season, plus readings and congregational singing. (Trillium Lutheran Church, 22 William St, Waterloo): Tickets $25, Child/Student $5 at the door or from choir members.

Tuesday December 10^th 12 p.m.Lunch and Listen: An MCC Journey through Uganda, in the Community Room, 50 Kent Ave., Kitchener or online.
Join us for an inspiring presentation as MCC staff Lynda Lynch and Debbie Siertsema share their experiences from a recent learning tour in Uganda, where they explored MCC’s impactful programs across the region. Join us in-person in the Community Room, 50 Kent Ave., Kitchener or watch the livestream on Facebook.

January 25, 2025, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Join us for the Great Winter WarmUp!
at the MCC Material Resources Centre, 65 Heritage Dr, New Hamburg
Get ready to cozy up at the Great Winter WarmUp! We’re inviting you, your friends and your family to the MCC Material Resource Centre for a fun-filled comforter knotting blitz. Together, we’ll create handmade comforters that bring warmth and remind those in need that they are loved and cared for. No experience? No problem! Whether you’re a pro at knotting or trying it for the first time, everyone is welcome. Enjoy some hot beverages, connect with great people and help us spread warmth and comfort this winter. We can’t wait to see you there and share some warmth together! For more info, go to  mcc.org/events.

Hidden Acres new “Learning IN Community” Programs – 

We believe that people of all abilities have been created to experience community! Our vision for “LINC” is to use its programs as a place of connection and growth for young adults with special needs. If you would like to learn more about our Day Programs or retreats, check our website at https://hiddenacres.ca/programs/linc or email cc@hiddenacres.ca

CMU Discover Weekend – Do you live outside Winnipeg and want to learn more about Canadian Mennonite University? Come to our Discover Weekend on November 28-30. You’ll experience all the excitement of Discover Day, plus two nights in residence and an off-campus excursion to get to know Winnipeg.

Visit cmu.ca/experience for more information and to register.

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 67              Sunday November 10, 2024                      No. 45

Sunday November 10, 2024

What is the Gospel?

The Gospel is about a God of Peace

Prelude/Accompanist/Song Leader: Glorify              Worship Leader: Bevin Witmer

Audio/Visual: Greg Pye/Brian Wagler                        Greeters: Susan & Ray Martin

Coffee Hosts: Megan MacDonald & Russ Schumm       Offering: Local Ministries

Prelude                                      “Hallelujah”

“Great are You Lord”

                                                 “Yes and Amen”

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship        

Opening Prayer

Songs of Gathering and Praise    “Blessed be Your Name”

“Build Your Kingdom Here”

Offering – Local Ministries

          Offertory Song                            “Hallelujah”

Time with the Children         

Scripture Readings: 2 Corinthians 5:16-20 and Colossians 3:15

Message        Michelle Brenneman, MCC Ontario Executive Director

Song of Response                                 VT#419 “Great is Thy Faithfulness”   

Prayer of the Church Pastor Mike

Sending Song                                        “Benediction”

Benediction

Today

Coffeetime in the basement immediately following worship. Everyone is welcome. We would ask that everyone provides their own mug to help simplify the preparation and clean up time. We will provide mugs for those who forget theirs or who come as guests on a Sunday morning.

11 a.m. Sunday School classes for all ages.

12 p.m. Private Party

This Coming Week

Tuesday November 12^th

• 7 p.m. Mission Committee Meeting

Wednesday November 13^th   

• 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Coffee and Bible Study
• E Z Play Group setup

Thursday November 14^th               

• 9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group
• 12 p.m. High Noon Lunch @ Grace United.
• 6:30 p.m. Ladies Salad Supper @ EZMC 

Friday November 15^th

• 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. EZMC interactive Learning Day and packing kits at Material Resource Centre in New Hamburg. This event is for all ages.
• MYF – Across the Street and Around the World – MCEC event at Rockway Mennonite Collegiate. Meet at church at 6 p.m.

Saturday November 16^th

• 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Live Nativity Costume Day

Please see the announcements for more details on many of these events.

Next Sunday – November 17, 2024

What is the Gospel?

The Gospel is about the God who overcomes death

Prelude/Accompanist: Katie Wagler                Song Leader: Caleb Leis

Greeters: Gwen & Dan Matthews           Worship Leader: Pastor Ray

Audio/Visual: Drystan Bender/Larry Kropf       Offering: Leadership

Coffee Hosts: Brett Zehr & Ryan Wagler          Message: Pastor Mike                 

Service of Remembering

During our worship service on November 17, we will take time to remember those who have died this past year by naming their names and lighting a candle in memory of them. As in previous years we plan to name our congregational members, along with other close family members (siblings, parents, children) of our congregational members.

If you have experienced another significant loss through death this year and wish to have that person named in our service, please contact Janice Ropp, or Pastor Ray.

12 p.m. Private Party

EZMC Announcements

October 2024 Donations Received Summary

Offering Schedule – $31,757        

Thanksgiving – TAP – $300  

Thanksgiving – WFRC – $225

Thursday November 14^th 12 p.m. High Noon Seniors Lunch at Grace United Church in Tavistock. A homestyle lunch will be served followed by a musical entertainment by Lifted Voices. Cost: Freewill offering.

Thursday November 14^th 6:30 p.m. Ladies come and join us for our Women’s Christmas Salad Supper in the church basement. Come with a dessert or salad to share and enjoy a night of great fellowship. A sign up sheet is on the bulletin board in the foyer. We encourage you to bring a friend or invite a neighbour. See you there!

Friday November 15^th 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Everyone is invited to the Mennonite Central Committee Material Resources Centre at 65 Heritage Drive, New Hamburg. It will be a day of interactive learning about MCC Material Resources as well as the ability to pack hygiene kits for an upcoming international relief shipment. Kits can be purchased and packed for $6.59 each. This event is for all ages.

Friday November 15^th MYF will be going to Rockway Mennonite Collegiate for a Mennonite Church Eastern Canada Youth event – Across the Street and Around the World. It will bean evening of worship, service & games from 7-9 p.m. The youth are invited to bring a new or gently used hoodie to donate. We will be meeting at the church for 6 p.m. and leaving promptly by 6:15 p.m.

Saturday December 7^th 5-8 p.m. Live Nativity (Weather date Sunday December 8) 

Thanks to everyone who has volunteered to help make this event happen! 

There is still time to get involved so please contact Sheryl or Kim directly if you are interested. Please note the following important dates: 

Saturday November 16 

• 10 am – 4 pm Costume Day. Please stop by the church during this time to get fitted for your costume. Please come with your winter gear so that costumes can be fitted properly! This includes coats, snowpants, mitts, boots, hats – just in case it gets cold 

Saturday November 23^rd

• 1 p.m. Set Building. Please contact Joe Wagler if you can help with this.

Saturday November 30^th

• 8 a.m. Sets will be put in place. Please contact Joe Wagler if you can help with this.

Sunday December 1 

• 12:00-12:30 pm Walk Through – We will do a quick walk through of the set for all characters and guides who can attend 

Saturday December 14^th

• 8 a.m. Sets will be removed and put away. Please contact Joe Wagler if you can help with this.

Please also promote this event with others so that we can share the Christmas story with many!

Thursday November 21^st 7-9 p.m. Games night  “Come for an informal night of games or puzzles in the church basement. Bring along games or puzzles to enjoy with people of all ages.”

Thursday November 28^th 6 p.m. Adult Fellowship Christmas Dinner followed with a Christmas Concert by Menno Valley Sound. Tickets are $45 and are available during coffeetime or from committee members Shirley & Phil Ruby, Laurel & Ray Zehr or Carol & Owen Cook. Deadline to buy tickets is November 17. any adults no matter your age, are invited to come to the Christmas Dinner and concert.

The tea towel/dish cloth supply in the kitchen at church is still low. If you have any at home, it would be greatly appreciated if you could please return them as soon as possible. Otherwise, we will need to replace them. Thanks so much.

You are invited to support a local family this Christmas

Tavistock Assistance Program (TAP) is busy preparing for the holiday season and would like to thank those who have reached out to enquire about supporting a family or individual in our community through gift giving this Christmas. If you would like to support this program by purchasing gifts for a family, donating funds for gifts, or volunteering to wrap gifts, we welcome you to reach out to TAP by November 22 at tapisforyou@outlook.com or (519)655-3500. 

Beyond our Church Community

Thursday November 14^th 7:30 p.m. Eby Lecture: Paint as Protest. Reading socio-political experiences through graffiti and street art in conflict-affected societies. Through his field research, Dr. Eric Lepp will engage with graffiti as a spatial and temporal resource in societies undergoing social and political transformation. grebel.ca/eby

Saturday November 16^th 9 am to 2 pm. The 10^th Annual Makers Market will be happening at Steinmann Mennonite Church. You are invited to attend and peruse 35+ local vendors’ homemade items as well as, the popular, Ten Thousand Villages and Raw Carrot. (A great opportunity to support local artisans and find that perfect gift). Soup lunch will be served at 11 am. For more information, see the poster on the main bulletin board. Hope to see you there!

Time is running out to register for Walking Through The Fire – Visual Album. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear music and stories from Indigenous musicians from across Canada. This film, created by the award-winning Sultans of String, will be screened at Zion United Church, New Hamburg on Thursday, November 14, 2024 at 7 p.m. Register now at https://walkingwilmot.eventbrite.ca  

Questions? Contact ecumenicalworkinggroup@gmail.com

Saturday November 16^th  9 a.m. – 2 p.m. The 10^th Annual Makers Market will be happening at Steinmann Mennonite Church (1316 Snyder’s Rd. W. Baden). You are invited to attend and peruse 35+ local vendors’ homemade items as well as, the popular, Ten Thousand Villages and Raw Carrot. (A great opportunity to support local artisans and find that perfect gift). Soup lunch will be served at 11 am. For more information, see the poster on the main bulletin board. Hope to see you there!

Hillcrest Mennonite Church is 60 Years Old! As part of our celebrations and acknowledgement, we have printed a 60 Year Anniversary Book, highlighting some of the events and stories that make up the people who have called Hillcrest home, written by Glenn Zehr. We will have an official book launch on Sunday November 17. Worship begins at 9:45 with a focus on celebrating these 60 years. Some of the 50^th Anniversary exhibits will be on display again. The book launch will start at 10:45 AM. Autographed books will be available for $20.00 each. Following our celebrations, all are invited join together for a potluck meal.

If you are unable to join us and would like a copy of the book, contact Marietta at office@hillcrestmc.ca or by phone 519-662-1577.

Sunday November 17^th 2 p.m. – Free Concert for Kids Community Event at St. Jacobs Mennonite Church. Musicians of the KW Symphony present Music for Horn and Harp, an introduction to these instruments featuring a selection of classical, popular, and folk songs. Refreshments to follow. For more info contact Pauline at church@sjmc.on.ca

Sunday November 17^th 3 p.m. Menno Singers hosts its Annual Messiah Sing-Along with soloists and orchestra. (St Matthews Lutheran Church, 54 Benton St, Kitchener): Bring a score, sit in parts and join your voices to sing (or come and listen). Admittance by donation.

Thursday November 21^st – Saturday November 23^rd

Villages Festival – Crafted by hand, inspired by purpose

Join us for a special event featuring fair trade treasures and social enterprise products from around the world! Shop unique handcrafted items from Ten Thousand Villages, enjoy delicious Raw Carrot soup, and discover beautiful creations from Niska Artisans. Don’t miss this chance to support artisans globally and locally, all while finding meaningful gifts for the holiday season.

This pop-up sale recreates the beloved Ten Thousand Villages Festival sales—back by popular demand!

High School Students! Are you thinking of attending the University of Waterloo? On Saturday, November 25 from 10-5, attend the UWaterloo Open House and stop by the Conrad Grebel University College residence, right on the UWaterloo campus. Learn about the supportive residence environment that this small and vibrant faith-based community can provide for students studying in any faculty or program at UWaterloo. uwaterloo.ca/grebel/tour

Sunday December 1^st 7:30 p.m. You are invited to attend the Area Churches Christmas Choir Concert at Steinmann Mennonite Church (1316 Snyder’s Rd W Baden). There will be a freewill offering in support of Mennonite Central Committee’s Meat Canning Project. Doors open at 7 pm.

Sunday December 8^th 7:30 p.m. Menno Singers with Artistic Director Brandon Leis invites you to a service of Lessons and Carols, with choral music for the season, plus readings and congregational singing. (Trillium Lutheran Church, 22 William St, Waterloo): Tickets $25, Child/Student $5 at the door or from choir members.

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 67              Sunday November 3, 2024                      No. 44

Sunday November 3, 2024

Join Zoom Meeting at 10 a.m.

What is the Gospel?

The Gospel is about a God who takes our place

Prelude: Brandy Sell                             Accompanist: Laurie Yantzi        

Song Leader: Lindsay Zehr                    Worship Leader: Caleb Leis                 

Offering: Mission Partners                     Message: Pastor Mike

Greeters: Fern & Galen Leis                  Audio/Visual: Greg Pye/Brian Wagler         

Prelude

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship       VT#851

Opening Prayer

Songs of Gathering and Praise   

VT #22 “What Is This Place”

VT #84 “To God Be the Glory” 

Offering – Mission Partners

Children’s Story         

Scripture Readings: Isaiah 53:10-12; 1 Peter 2:21-25

Message                                     Pastor Mike

Song of Response  VT #323 “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross”

Receiving New Members 

Prayer of the Church

Sending Song          VT #813 “Heart with Loving Heart United”   

Benediction

Postlude

Today

11 a.m. Sunday School classes for all ages.

Noon potluck – Plan to stay and meet the Daud Tokhi family of eight that we are sponsoring and take some time to meet and converse with them. It is also an opportunity to reconnect with members we had not seen during the summer months over tasty and lovingly prepared food to share with one another. Please bring your own dishes and cutlery. We hope to see you there.

Sunday Afternoon Services at peopleCare (2:15 pm) and The Maples (3:15 pm)

This Coming Week

Tuesday November 5^th

• 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Sewing Circle – Everyone is welcome to join us to knot comforters or quilt

Wednesday November 6^th   

• 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Coffee and Bible Study
• 6:30 p.m. Youth Ministry Team Meeting
• 7 p.m. Worship Committee
• 7 p.m. Glorify Rehearsal

Thursday November 7^th               

• 9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group
• 7 p.m. Live Nativity Committee Meeting

Friday November 8^th

• 7 p.m. MYF – Material Resource Centre Working and Learning
• 7 – 9 p.m. Junior Youth – Games at church with Pastor Mike

Next Sunday – November 10, 2024

What is the Gospel?

The Gospel is about a God of Peace

Prelude/Accompanist/Song Leader: Glorify              Worship Leader: Bevin Witmer

Audio/Visual: Greg Pye/Brian Wagler                        Greeters: Susan & Ray Martin

Coffee Hosts: Megan MacDonald & Russ Schumm       Offering: Local Ministries

Message: Michelle Brenneman, MCC Ontario Executive Director

EZMC Announcements

East Zorra Mennonite Church is hiring a treasurer. The position is interim/temporary for approximately 18-24 months as finance processes and systems will be undergoing review and the treasurer position change as part of this review.

The position includes bookkeeping tasks, tracking donations, accounts payable activities, and payroll responsibilities. The ideal candidate will have knowledge of financial record keeping, payroll requirements, charitable and non-profit legislation, and legal remittance obligations. The position requires an average of 5-10 hours per week, with additional hours at year end. Compensation is $22-28 per hour depending on experience and skills. Start date is December 2024. A full job description is attached to the October 20 bulletin email.

If you are interested in this position, please forward written communication outlining your skills and experience that aligns with the job description to Megan at rusandmeg@gmail.com by Sunday November 3, 2024.

Thank you on behalf of the Treasurer Hiring Committee of Megan MacDonald, Jill Rempel, Susan Schmitz, Brian Wagler.

Thursday November 14^th 6:30 p.m. Ladies come and join us for our Women’s Christmas Salad Supper in the church basement. Come with a dessert or salad to share and enjoy a night of great fellowship. A sign up sheet is on the bulletin board in the foyer. We encourage you to bring a friend or invite a neighbour. See you there!

Friday November 15^th 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Everyone is invited to the Mennonite Central Committee Material Resources Centre at 65 Heritage Drive, New Hamburg. It will be a day of interactive learning about MCC Material Resources as well as the ability to pack hygiene kits for an upcoming international relief shipment. Kits can be purchased and packed for $6.59 each. This event is for all ages.

Thursday November 21^st 7-9 p.m. Games night  “Come for an informal night of games or puzzles in the church basement. Bring along games or puzzles to enjoy with people of all ages.”

Thursday November 28^th 6 p.m. Adult Fellowship Christmas Dinner followed with a Christmas Concert by Menno Valley Sound. Tickets are $45 and are available during coffeetime or from committee members Shirley & Phil Ruby, Laurel & Ray Zehr or Carol & Owen Cook. Deadline to buy tickets is November 17. any adults no matter your age are invited  to come to  the Christmas Dinner and concert.

Saturday December 7^th 5-8 p.m. Live Nativity (Weather date Sunday December 8) 

We are still looking for lots of people to help with the nativity 

Please review the sign-up sheets posted in the back lobby to find your spot!

The times are from 4-8 and there will be two shifts to chose from 

Please sign up by November 3 so that we can begin to arrange costumes 

Feel free to also contact Sheryl or Kim directly 

This a great way to come out and give back with your family and friends, and we look forward to having you involved! 

Saturday November 16 – the costume team will be at the church to get people fitted for costumes – so we hope you can stop by – more information to come

thank you ! 

JCET is excited to welcome all the children back to Sunday school. We are looking forward to another fun year of learning and growing together in our faith in Jesus.

We are still in need of teachers and helpers! The sign-up sheet is on the bulletin board in basement near the teacher desk.  We encourage you to consider how you could help support our program this year. Please see the link below.

If you have any questions, please reach out to one of us.

Erin Yantzi, Sue Martin, Holly Barron, Jess Yantzi. 

Beyond our Church Community

Calling all families interested in learning more about Rockway Mennonite Collegiate for their child. We invite you to attend our Discover Rockway information night on Thursday, November 7 from 7 – 9 pm. For more information and to register for this event, visit our Discover Rockway webpage

Villages Festival – Crafted by hand, inspired by purpose

Join us for a special two-weekend event featuring fair trade treasures and social enterprise products from around the world! Shop unique handcrafted items from Ten Thousand Villages, enjoy delicious Raw Carrot soup, and discover beautiful creations from Niska Artisans. Don’t miss this chance to support artisans globally and locally, all while finding meaningful gifts for the holiday season.

• Nov 7-9 at W-K United Mennonite Church, 15 George St, Waterloo
• Nov 21-23 at MCC, 50 Kent Ave, Kitchener

This pop-up sale recreates the beloved Ten Thousand Villages Festival sales—back by popular demand!

Walking Through The Fire: Visual Album is a unique musical film experience. It features award-winning First Nations, Métis and Inuit artists from across Turtle Island not only sharing their music, but also their stories. They are joined by Billboard charting/6x Canadian Folk Music Award winners Sultans of String. 

The Wilmot Ecumenical Working Group on Indigenous/Settler Relationships is hosting a free screening of this newly released film on Thursday, November 14, 2024 7 p.m. at Zion United Church, 215 Peel St., New Hamburg, ON.

Sultans of String created this project in the spirit of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action, that asks for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to work together as an opportunity to show a path forward. As bandleader Chris McKhool says “We know that as a society we can’t move ahead without acknowledging and reflecting on the past. Before reconciliation can occur, the full truth of the Indigenous experience in this country needs to be told, so we’ve been calling on Indigenous artists to share with us their stories”. 

The screening on November 14th will be followed by a Q&A panel with artists from the film including Shannon Thunderbird and Sultans of String producers Chris McKhool and local GRAMMY Winner John “Beetle” Bailey. 

There will be a free will donation at the door. The building is accessible but parking at the church is limited to those with mobility issues. Street parking is available on Peel and Wilmot streets plus at the Sobeys Plaza. Seating is limited so people are being asked to reserve a spot at https://walkingwilmot.eventbrite.ca

Thursday November 14^th 7:30 p.m. Eby Lecture: Paint as Protest. Reading socio-political experiences through graffiti and street art in conflict-affected societies. Through his field research, Dr. Eric Lepp will engage with graffiti as a spatial and temporal resource in societies undergoing social and political transformation. grebel.ca/eby

Hillcrest Mennonite Church is 60 Years Old! As part of our celebrations and acknowledgement, we have printed a 60 Year Anniversary Book, highlighting some of the events and stories that make up the people who have called Hillcrest home, written by Glenn Zehr. We will have an official book launch on Sunday November 17. Worship begins at 9:45 with a focus on celebrating these 60 years. Some of the 50^th Anniversary exhibits will be on display again. The book launch will start at 10:45 AM. Autographed books will be available for $20.00 each. Following our celebrations, all are invited join together for a potluck meal.

If you are unable to join us and would like a copy of the book, contact Marietta at office@hillcrestmc.ca or by phone 519-662-1577.

Sunday November 17^th 3 p.m. (St Matthews Lutheran Church, 54 Benton St, Kitchener): Menno Singers hosts its Annual Messiah Sing-Along with soloists and orchestra. Bring a score, sit in parts and join your voices to sing (or come and listen). Admittance by donation.

Sunday November 17^th 2 p.m. – Free Concert for Kids Community Event at St. Jacobs Mennonite Church. Musicians of the KW Symphony present Music for Horn and Harp, an introduction to these instruments featuring a selection of classical, popular, and folk songs. Refreshments to follow. For more info contact Pauline at church@sjmc.on.ca

High School Students! Are you thinking of attending the University of Waterloo? On Saturday, November 25 from 10-5, attend the UWaterloo Open House and stop by the Conrad Grebel University College residence, right on the UWaterloo campus. Learn about the supportive residence environment that this small and vibrant faith-based community can provide for students studying in any faculty or program at UWaterloo. uwaterloo.ca/grebel/tour

Friday November 29^th – Saturday November 30^th  

Men Listening, Men Talking Retreat at Hidden Acres Mennonite Camp & Retreat Centre. Set aside time for this opportunity to join a community of men seeking growth, understanding and meaningful connection. Leave feeling inspired, challenged and equipped with insights to navigate the complexities of being men of faith in today’s world. Register now and be part of this empowering journey. Visit mcc.org/men-talking to learn more.

Hidden Acres new “Learning IN Community” Programs – 

We believe that people of all abilities have been created to experience community! Our vision for “LINC” is to use its programs as a place of connection and growth for young adults with special needs. If you would like to learn more about our Day Programs or retreats, check our website at https://hiddenacres.ca/programs/linc or email cc@hiddenacres.ca

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 67              Sunday October 27, 2024                      No. 43

Sunday October 27, 2024

Join Zoom Meeting at 10 a.m.

What is the Gospel?

The Gospel is about a Kingdom Revelation

Prelude/Accompanist: Katie Wagler                Song Leader: Myron Ruby

Worship Leader: Brendan Leis                        Offering: Maintenance     

Greeters: Sheryl & Brendan Leis            Message: Pastor Ray

Audio/Visual: Dathan Bender/Brian Wagler      Coffee Hosts: Janet & Marv Yantzi

Prelude

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer

Songs of Praise

VT # 91 We Praise Thee O God

VT # 122 Sing to the God of Harvest

Offering – Maintenance

Time with the Children         

Scripture Readings: Daniel 7:12-14; Revelation 21:1-8; Revelation 22:1-5

Message                                     Pastor Ray

Song of Response  

VT #705 For the Healing of the Nations

Prayer of the Church

Sending Song  

VT #759 Take my Life and Let it Be   

Benediction

Today

Coffeetime in the basement immediately following worship. Everyone is welcome. We would ask that everyone provides their own mug to help simplify the preparation and clean up time. We will provide mugs for those who forget theirs or who come as guests on a Sunday morning.

11 a.m. Sunday School classes for all ages.

This Coming Week

Wednesday October 30^th   

• 10:30 – 11:30 Coffee and Bible Study

• Play Group set up
• 7 p.m. Creation Celebration Setup

Thursday October 31^st              

• 9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group
• 6 p.m. Creation Celebration. Come join the fun! The Volunteer sign-up sheet is ready! Donations of cash and candy will be happily accepted. As allergies are an on-going concern, we are asking for NUT FREE treats only – please carefully check the package ingredient list (contains or may contain peanuts or tree nuts – we are unable to put these treats into the bags). Candy can be placed in the bin under the mailboxes, cash can be given to Joe Wagler or both can be dropped off at Creation Celebration. Sausage on a bun, hotdogs and pie will be prepared by the Congregational Life Committee. If anyone is willing to donate a pie please notify Megan MacDonald or Greg Leis by Monday.

Friday November 1^st  

• 7 p.m. MYF – Minute to Win It at church

Saturday November 2^nd

• 1 p.m. Junior Youth – Rake and Run  

Next Sunday – November 3, 2024

What is the Gospel?

The Gospel is about a God who takes our place

Prelude: Brandy Sell                                       Accompanist: Laurie Yantzi                    Song Leader: Lindsay Schlegel                        Worship Leader: Caleb Leis            Offering: Mission Partners                     Message: Pastor Mike

Greeters: Fern & Galen Leis                            Coffee Hosts: Gloria & Merv Ropp

Audio/Visual: Todd Bender/Brian Wagler        

Membership Sunday: We invite your prayers for Laurie Yantzi and Murray Kennel

as they plan to become members at East Zorra.

Noon potluck – Plan to stay and meet the Daud Tokhi family of eight that we are sponsoring and take some time to meet and converse with them. It is also an opportunity to reconnect with members we had not seen during the summer months over tasty and lovingly prepared food to share with one another.

You, the very young to mature are invited to participate in Sunday Afternoon Services at The Maples and peopleCare on November 3rd! It’s a two hour commitment at the very most. The half hour service involves reading scripture, a poem or short story, singing and or playing an instrument followed by saying hello to the residents. The first service begins at 2:15 p.m. and all is done by 4 p.m. at the latest. Please reach out to Pastor Ray or Susan Schmitz if you would like to participate. 

EZMC Announcements

October is Pastor Appreciation Month. SCRC invites you to express your personal gratitude to Ray and Mike in some way during the month.

East Zorra Mennonite Church is hiring a treasurer. The position is interim/temporary for approximately 18-24 months as finance processes and systems will be undergoing review and the treasurer position change as part of this review.

The position includes bookkeeping tasks, tracking donations, accounts payable activities, and payroll responsibilities. The ideal candidate will have knowledge of financial record keeping, payroll requirements, charitable and non-profit legislation, and legal remittance obligations. The position requires an average of 5-10 hours per week, with additional hours at year end. Compensation is $22-28 per hour depending on experience and skills. Start date is December 2024. A full job description is attached to the October 20 bulletin email.

If you are interested in this position, please forward written communication outlining your skills and experience that aligns with the job description to Megan at rusandmeg@gmail.com by Sunday November 3, 2024.

Thank you on behalf of the Treasurer Hiring Committee of Megan MacDonald, Jill Rempel, Susan Schmitz, Brian Wagler.

Thursday November 14^th 6:30 p.m. Ladies come and join us for our Women’s Christmas Salad Supper in the church basement. Come with a dessert or salad to share and enjoy a night of great fellowship. A sign up sheet is on the bulletin board in the foyer. We encourage you to bring a friend or invite a neighbour. See you there!

Friday November 15^th 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Everyone is invited to the Mennonite Central Committee Material Resources Centre at 65 Heritage Drive, New Hamburg. It will be a day of interactive learning about MCC Material Resources as well as the ability to pack hygiene kits for an upcoming international relief shipment. Kits can be purchased and packed for $6.59 each. This event is for all ages.

Thursday November 28^th 6 p.m. Adult Fellowship Christmas Dinner followed with a Christmas Concert by Menno Valley Sound. Tickets are $45 and are available during coffeetime or from committee members Shirley & Phil Ruby, Laurel & Ray Zehr or Carol & Owen Cook. Deadline to buy tickets is November 17.

Saturday December 7^th 5-8 p.m. Live Nativity (Weather date Sunday December 8) 

The live nativity was first done in 2021, and we had over 400 people attend, and over 100 volunteers from East Zorra involved to make it happen …lets see if we can top that this year to create another memorable experience.

Please review the sign-up sheets posted in the back lobby to find your spot!

The times are from 4-8 and there will be two shifts to chose from 

Please sign up by November 3 so that we can begin to arrange costumes 

Feel free to also contact Sheryl or Kim 

This a great way to come out and give back with your family and friends, and we look forward to having you involved! 

JCET is excited to welcome all the children back to Sunday school. We are looking forward to another fun year of learning and growing together in our faith in Jesus.

We are still in need of teachers and helpers! The sign-up sheet is on the bulletin board in basement near the teacher desk.  We encourage you to consider how you could help support our program this year. Please see the link below.

If you have any questions, please reach out to one of us.

Erin Yantzi, Sue Martin, Holly Barron, Jess Yantzi. 

Beyond our Church Community

Saturday November 2^nd 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Challenge for the Church: Antisemitism at Waterloo North Mennonite Church. Antisemitism is a serious issue today, and we believe it’s important to come together and explore it more deeply. As followers of a faith that emerged from Judaism, we have a responsibility to understand the ways antisemitism has been woven into Christian history, including our own Mennonite tradition. Recent events, like the Hamas attacks on October 7 and the Israeli military actions in Gaza, have brought issues of antisemitism and Islamophobia to the surface in Canada. Join us for a meaningful workshop where we’ll unpack these challenges together. Cost is $10 at the door. Register here.

Saturday November 2^nd. Tri-County Mennonite Homes Presents… An Evening With Darryl Sittler@ Puddicombe House. Get your Tickets by Wednesday October 16. Tickets are $175 each and each ticket purchased receive a $100 tax receipt. For Tickets, Donations, and More Information: https://tcmhomes.com/donate/

Saturday November 2^nd 7:30 p.m. (Trillium Lutheran Church, 22 William St, Waterloo): Menno Singers and The Laurier Singers with Artistic Director Brandon Leis join voices to present music for All Souls’ Day – ‘Love, Loss & Eternity.’ Tickets $25, Child/Student $5 at the door or from choir members.

Calling all families interested in learning more about Rockway Mennonite Collegiate for their child. We invite you to attend our Discover Rockway information night on Thursday, November 7 from 7 – 9 pm. For more information and to register for this event, visit our Discover Rockway webpage

Villages Festival – Crafted by hand, inspired by purpose

Join us for a special two-weekend event featuring fair trade treasures and social enterprise products from around the world! Shop unique handcrafted items from Ten Thousand Villages, enjoy delicious Raw Carrot soup, and discover beautiful creations from Niska Artisans. Don’t miss this chance to support artisans globally and locally, all while finding meaningful gifts for the holiday season.

• Nov 7-9 at W-K United Mennonite Church, 15 George St, Waterloo
• Nov 21-23 at MCC, 50 Kent Ave, Kitchener

This pop-up sale recreates the beloved Ten Thousand Villages Festival sales—back by popular demand!

Thursday November 14^th 7:30 p.m. Eby Lecture: Paint as Protest. Reading socio-political experiences through graffiti and street art in conflict-affected societies. Through his field research, Dr. Eric Lepp will engage with graffiti as a spatial and temporal resource in societies undergoing social and political transformation. grebel.ca/eby

Hillcrest Mennonite Church is 60 Years Old! As part of our celebrations and acknowledgement, we have printed a 60 Year Anniversary Book, highlighting some of the events and stories that make up the people who have called Hillcrest home, written by Glenn Zehr.  We will have an official book launch on Sunday November 17. Worship begins at 9:45 with a focus on celebrating these 60 years. Some of the 50^th Anniversary exhibits will be on display again. The book launch will start at 10:45 AM. Autographed books will be available for $20.00 each. Following our celebrations, all are invited join together for a potluck meal.

If you are unable to join us and would like a copy of the book, contact Marietta at office@hillcrestmc.ca or by phone 519-662-1577.

Sunday November 17^th 3 p.m. (St Matthews Lutheran Church, 54 Benton St, Kitchener): Menno Singers hosts its Annual Messiah Sing-Along with soloists and orchestra. Bring a score, sit in parts and join your voices to sing (or come and listen). Admittance by donation.

Walking Through The Fire: Visual Album is a unique musical film experience. It features award-winning First Nations, Métis and Inuit artists from across Turtle Island not only sharing their music, but also their stories. They are joined by Billboard charting/6x Canadian Folk Music Award winners Sultans of String. 

The Wilmot Ecumenical Working Group on Indigenous/Settler Relationships is hosting a free screening of this newly released film on Thursday, November 14, 2024 7 p.m. at Zion United Church, 215 Peel St., New Hamburg, ON.

Sultans of String created this project in the spirit of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action, that asks for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to work together as an opportunity to show a path forward. As bandleader Chris McKhool says “We know that as a society we can’t move ahead without acknowledging and reflecting on the past. Before reconciliation can occur, the full truth of the Indigenous experience in this country needs to be told, so we’ve been calling on Indigenous artists to share with us their stories”. 

The screening on November 14th will be followed by a Q&A panel with artists from the film including Shannon Thunderbird and Sultans of String producers Chris McKhool and local GRAMMY Winner John “Beetle” Bailey. 

There will be a free will donation at the door. The building is accessible but parking at the church is limited to those with mobility issues. Street parking is available on Peel and Wilmot streets plus at the Sobeys Plaza. Seating is limited so people are being asked to reserve a spot at https://walkingwilmot.eventbrite.ca

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 67              Sunday October 20, 2024                      No. 42

Sunday October 20, 2024

What is the Gospel?

The Gospel according to Paul.

Prelude/Accompanist: Bethany Zehr               Song Leader: Caleb Leis

Worship Leader: Tyler Yantzi                          Offering: Leadership        

Greeters: Marilyn & Bob Zehr                          Message: Tom Yoder Neufeld         

Audio/Visual: Drystan Bender/Brian Wagler    

Coffee Hosts: Michelle & Brad Brenneman

Prelude       

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer

Songs of Gathering & Praise

VT #22 “What is This Place”

VT #419 “Great Is Thy Faithfulness”

Offering – Leadership

Time with the Children/Bible Presentation Pastor Mike, Bethany Kropf, Caleb Leis                                           

Scripture Reading: Isaiah 57:18,19; Isaiah 52:7; Ephesians 2:13-18

Message                           Dr. Tom Yoder Neufeld                                                                            

Song of Response  

VT #716 “God of Grace and God of Glory”

Prayer of the Church

Sending Song

VT #740 “Spirit of the Living God”

Benediction

Today

Coffeetime in the basement immediately following worship. Everyone is welcome. We would ask that everyone provides their own mug to help simplify the preparation and clean up time. We will provide mugs for those who forget theirs or who come as guests on a Sunday morning.

11 a.m. Sunday School classes for all ages.

12 p.m. Private Party

This Coming Week

Wednesday October 23^rd  

• 10:30 – 11:30 Coffee and Bible Study
• Play Group set up

Thursday October 24^th             

• 9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group
• 7 p.m. Church Ministry Council Meeting

Friday October 25^th 

• 7 p.m. MYF @ church

Next Sunday – October 27, 2024

What is the Gospel?

The Gospel is about a Kingdom Revelation

Prelude/Accompanist: Katie Wagler                Song Leader: Myron Ruby

Worship Leader: Dylan Yantzi                         Offering: Maintenance     

Greeters: Sheryl & Brendan Leis                      Message: Pastor Ray

Audio/Visual: Dathan Bender/Brian Wagler      Coffee Hosts: Janet & Marv Yantzi

EZMC Announcements

Thanks Giving Drive – Sunday October 20

You are invited to support the T.A.P. (Tavistock Assistance Program) and the WFRC (Wilmot Family Resource Centre). Non-perishables and paper products are in need.

Please bring your non-perishables and paper products into the sanctuary with you, we will have children bring them to the front of the sanctuary as part of our offertory. 

Designated offerings are also welcome. Envelopes with designated offering should be marked as “Thanks Giving Drive” or if you prefer to support one of the organizations specifically, please note on your offertory envelope if it is TAP or WFRC.

October is Pastor Appreciation Month. SCRC invites you to express your personal gratitude to Ray and Mike in some way during the month.

Thursday October 31^st  6 p.m.  CREATION CELEBRATION. Come join the fun! The Volunteer sign-up sheet is ready! Donations of cash and candy will be happily accepted. As allergies are an on-going concern, we are asking for NUT FREE treats only – please carefully check the package ingredient list (contains or may contain peanuts or tree nuts – we are unable to put these treats into the bags). Candy can be placed in the bin under the mailboxes, cash can be given to Joe Wagler or both can be dropped off at Creation Celebration.

Sunday November 3^rd East Zorra Potluck! Plan to stay and meet the Daud Tokhi family of eight that we are sponsoring and take some time to meet and converse with them. It is also an opportunity to reconnect with members we had not seen during the summer months over tasty and lovingly prepared food to share with one another.

You, the very young to mature are invited to participate in Sunday Afternoon Services at The Maples and peopleCare on November 3rd! It’s a two hour commitment at the very most. The half hour service involves reading scripture, a poem or short story, singing and or playing an instrument followed by saying hello to the residents. The first service begins at 2:15 p.m. and all is done by 4 p.m. at the latest. Please reach out to Pastor Ray or Susan Schmitz if you would like to participate. 

East Zorra Mennonite Church is hiring a treasurer. The position is interim/temporary for approximately 18-24 months as finance processes and systems will be undergoing review and the treasurer position change as part of this review.

The position includes bookkeeping tasks, tracking donations, accounts payable activities, and payroll responsibilities. The ideal candidate will have knowledge of financial record keeping, payroll requirements, charitable and non-profit legislation, and legal remittance obligations. The position requires an average of 5-10 hours per week, with additional hours at year end. Compensation is $22-28 per hour depending on experience and skills. Start date is December 2024. A full job description is attached to the October 20 bulletin email.

If you are interested in this position, please forward written communication outlining your skills and experience that aligns with the job description to Megan at rusandmeg@gmail.com by Sunday November 3, 2024.

Thank you on behalf of the Treasurer Hiring Committee of Megan MacDonald, Jill Rempel, Susan Schmitz, Brian Wagler.

Friday November 15^th 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Everyone is invited to the Mennonite Central Committee Material Resources Centre at 65 Heritage Drive, New Hamburg. It will be a day of interactive learning about MCC Material Resources as well as the ability to pack hygiene kits for an upcoming international relief shipment. Kits can be purchased and packed for $6.59 each. This event is for all ages.

Thursday November 28^th – Adult Fellowship Christmas Dinner

Look for more details next week in our bulletin announcement.

Finance and Facility Update
Thank you all for your generous giving so far in 2024. Our financial update indicates both increased giving and spending this year as compared to last year. As we approach the end of the calendar year we invite you to prayerfully consider giving extra in the coming weeks as we anticipate a fairly large amount still needed to meet our 2024 commitments.

Thanks again for your generous giving.

Saturday December 7^th 5-8 p.m. Live Nativity (Weather date Sunday December 8) 

The live nativity was first done in 2021, and we had over 400 people attend, and over 100 volunteers from East Zorra involved to make it happen …lets see if we can top that this year to create another memorable experience.

Please review the sign-up sheets posted in the back lobby to find your spot!

The times are from 4-8 and there will be two shifts to chose from 

Please sign up by November 3 so that we can begin to arrange costumes 

Feel free to also contact Sheryl or Kim 

This a great way to come out and give back with your family and friends, and we look forward to having you involved! 

JCET is excited to welcome all the children back to Sunday school. We are looking forward to another fun year of learning and growing together in our faith in Jesus.

We are still in need of teachers and helpers! The sign-up sheet is on the bulletin board in basement near the teacher desk.  We encourage you to consider how you could help support our program this year. Please see the link below.

If you have any questions, please reach out to one of us.

Erin Yantzi, Sue Martin, Holly Barron, Jess Yantzi. 

Beyond our Church Community

Mennonite Disaster Service is responding to Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. Volunteer teams are in North Carolina and Florida assisting with an early response to both hurricanes. Please pray for the people impacted by these disasters and the volunteers as they respond. Visit mds.org to donate or view volunteer needs.

Saturday November 2^nd 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Challenge for the Church: Antisemitism at Waterloo North Mennonite Church. Antisemitism is a serious issue today, and we believe it’s important to come together and explore it more deeply. As followers of a faith that emerged from Judaism, we have a responsibility to understand the ways antisemitism has been woven into Christian history, including our own Mennonite tradition. Recent events, like the Hamas attacks on October 7 and the Israeli military actions in Gaza, have brought issues of antisemitism and Islamophobia to the surface in Canada. Join us for a meaningful workshop where we’ll unpack these challenges together. Cost is $10 at the door. Register here.

Saturday November 2^nd. Tri-County Mennonite Homes Presents… An Evening With Darryl Sittler@ Puddicombe House. Get your Tickets by Wednesday October 16. Tickets are $175 each and each ticket purchased receive a $100 tax receipt. For Tickets, Donations, and More Information: https://tcmhomes.com/donate/

Saturday November 2^nd 7:30 p.m. (Trillium Lutheran Church, 22 William St, Waterloo): Menno Singers and The Laurier Singers with Artistic Director Brandon Leis join voices to present music for All Souls’ Day – ‘Love, Loss & Eternity.’ Tickets $25, Child/Student $5 at the door or from choir members.

Calling all families interested in learning more about Rockway Mennonite Collegiate for their child. We invite you to attend our Discover Rockway information night on Thursday, November 7 from 7 – 9 pm. For more information and to register for this event, visit our Discover Rockway webpage

Villages Festival – Crafted by hand, inspired by purpose

Join us for a special two-weekend event featuring fair trade treasures and social enterprise products from around the world! Shop unique handcrafted items from Ten Thousand Villages, enjoy delicious Raw Carrot soup, and discover beautiful creations from Niska Artisans. Don’t miss this chance to support artisans globally and locally, all while finding meaningful gifts for the holiday season.

• Nov 7-9 at W-K United Mennonite Church, 15 George St, Waterloo
• Nov 21-23 at MCC, 50 Kent Ave, Kitchener

This pop-up sale recreates the beloved Ten Thousand Villages Festival sales—back by popular demand!

Thursday November 14^th 7:30 p.m. Eby Lecture: Paint as Protest. Reading socio-political experiences through graffiti and street art in conflict-affected societies. Through his field research, Dr. Eric Lepp will engage with graffiti as a spatial and temporal resource in societies undergoing social and political transformation. grebel.ca/eby

Sunday November 17^th 3 p.m. (St Matthews Lutheran Church, 54 Benton St, Kitchener): Menno Singers hosts its Annual Messiah Sing-Along with soloists and orchestra. Bring a score, sit in parts and join your voices to sing (or come and listen). Admittance by donation.

Walking Through The Fire: Visual Album is a unique musical film experience. It features award-winning First Nations, Métis and Inuit artists from across Turtle Island not only sharing their music, but also their stories. They are joined by Billboard charting/6x Canadian Folk Music Award winners Sultans of String. 

The Wilmot Ecumenical Working Group on Indigenous/Settler Relationships is hosting a free screening of this newly released film on Thursday, November 14, 2024 7 p.m. at Zion United Church, 215 Peel St., New Hamburg, ON.

Sultans of String created this project in the spirit of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action, that asks for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to work together as an opportunity to show a path forward. As bandleader Chris McKhool says “We know that as a society we can’t move ahead without acknowledging and reflecting on the past. Before reconciliation can occur, the full truth of the Indigenous experience in this country needs to be told, so we’ve been calling on Indigenous artists to share with us their stories”. 

The screening on November 14th will be followed by a Q&A panel with artists from the film including Shannon Thunderbird and Sultans of String producers Chris McKhool and local GRAMMY Winner John “Beetle” Bailey. 

There will be a free will donation at the door.  The building is accessible but parking at the church is limited to those with mobility issues.  Street parking is available on Peel and Wilmot streets plus at the Sobeys Plaza.  Seating is limited so people are being asked to reserve a spot at https://walkingwilmot.eventbrite.ca

A NEW NITHVIEW – Building our house on a rock

Tri-County Mennonite Homes is redeveloping the long-term care home in New Hamburg at Nithview Community. As part of this, we will be reaching out to all of you as supporting churches, the community at large, and individual businesses across the Region to both be part of and support the “Building a New Nithview” campaign. 

We take seriously Jesus’ parable in Luke 6 about the wise and foolish builders. We have invested a lot of resources to make sure the plans for our new home will have a solid foundation. But we also continue to listen and receive feedback to ensure that we are building on the spiritual foundation of our faith communities. We need you to share in this project for the sake of current and future residents under our care. This campaign will depend on the commitment of your time, talent and treasure to the project. Donations of your time can be as a volunteer, your talent as community leaders and experts, and your treasure in the form of a donation or investment to this project. Nithview will not be redeveloped on its own, and as we look to grow, we are going to be reaching out to all of you to support our community forward. There will be more to come into the future, but please take a look at our website www.tcmhomes.com for more information.

Hidden Acres new “Learning IN Community” Programs – 

We believe that people of all abilities have been created to experience community! Our vision for “LINC” is to use its programs as a place of connection and growth for young adults with special needs. If you would like to learn more about our Day Programs or retreats, check our website at https://hiddenacres.ca/programs/linc or email cc@hiddenacres.ca

Friday November 29^th – Saturday November 30^th  

Men Listening, Men Talking Retreat at Hidden Acres Mennonite Camp & Retreat Centre. Set aside time for this opportunity to join a community of men seeking growth, understanding and meaningful connection. Leave feeling inspired, challenged and equipped with insights to navigate the complexities of being men of faith in today’s world. Register now and be part of this empowering journey. Visit mcc.org/men-talking to learn more.

The New Hamburg Thrift Centre invites you to join their volunteer team. They are currently seeking enthusiastic volunteers to support various areas of work. For more details, please refer to the poster on the main bulletin board. If you have any questions please call 519-662-2867 or email emmanorris@mcco.ca.

Volunteer with Circle of Friends
MCC is recruiting volunteers to become part of the Circle of Friends program to help support individuals transitioning out of homelessness. No special experience or background is required to volunteer, but volunteers should be compassionate, patient and good listeners. Go to mcc.org/opportunity/circle-friends for more information