Weekly Bulletins

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 69              Sunday July 5, 2026                      No. 27

EZMC Outdoor Service in Queen’s Park Pavilion Tavistock.

10:30 a.m.

Prelude/Accompanist: Katie Wagler                Song Leader: Susan Schmitz

Worship Leader: Caleb Leis                            Audio: Dathan Bender      

Please note that we are not having a Zoom service at the park today

Prelude       

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship

Opening Prayer

Songs of Gathering & Praise                

HWB # 59 “Sing praise to God who reigns”

HWB # 86 “Now thank we all our God”

Offering – Mission Partners

Time with the Children                                  Leah Ruby              

Scripture Reading: Philippians 4:4-13                       

Sharing by: Jan Ropp

Song of Response                      

HWB # 340 “’Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus”

Sharing & Prayer of the Church                      Pastor Mike            

Sending Song                                       

HWB #327 “Great is thy faithfulness”

Benediction

Potluck immediately following worship. Please bring your own dishes and cutlery, lawn chairs, (and of course delicious food to share!). Drinks will be provided.

This Coming Week

Monday July 6^th to Friday July 10^th 

• 9 – 11:45 a.m. Vacation Bible School 

Thursday July 9^th     

• 6:30 p.m. Vacation Bible School Program

Next Sunday – July 12, 2026

Prelude/Accompanist: Bethany Zehr               Song Leader: Lindsay Zehr                   

Greeters: Carol & Owen Cook                         Worship Leader: Rick Roes                    

A/V: Todd Bender/Larry Kropf                         Offering: MCEC & MC Canda

Coffee: Michelle & Brad Brenneman                Sharing by: Sarah Ropp

Again, this summer in our message time we will hear from various congregational members who will share about their life with God. We pray that the stories and experiences shared this summer will be an encouragement, and a reminder to each of us that God is with us.  

EZMC Announcements

The Missions Committee would like to thank the congregation for its generous support of the meat canning day at the MCC Cannery in New Hamburg on June 10. A total of 22 volunteers participated, helping to produce 1,029 cans of chicken, each weighing 1.5 pounds. These cans will be sent to an MCC partner school, where they will help meet the vital nutritional needs of approximately 1,300 children.

Community Campfires at East Zorra Mennonite   

6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Green Space on July 22, Aug 5 & 19, Sept 2.

Everyone of all ages is invited to bring a lawn chair, a snack, and a refreshment to drink and join us this Summer in our Green Space around the campfire for a time of fellowship, conversation, and fun. There will be no set agenda and children will be free to use the equipment and play. Alexis will plan to provide a few organized events for the children for about 30 minutes. 

We look forward to enjoying each other’s company.

Holy Movement & Walking Club summer series! Summer comes with vacation time for many & lots of opportunities to be active. This is all good, keep moving! For those interested in Holy Movement and Walking Club over the summer, details and dates are provided below. Mark it in your calendar and join when you can! New participants always welcome!

Holy Movement – 7:30-8:30 – Tues July 14 & 28; Tues Aug 4 & 18 

Walking Club – meet at 7pm – will continue on our bi-weekly Monday schedule – June 29; July 13 & 27; Aug 10 & 24  

Upcoming Summer Services:

Sunday August 2     Shared Worship service hosted at Tavistock Mennonite Church.

Sunday August 9     Tavistock & Area Ecumenical Worship Service in Queen’s Park.

Sunday Sept 6        Shared Worship Service hosted at Cassel Mennonite Church.

Calling all young adults! For anyone graduated from high school and under 30 we would love to get together for a time of fellowship and studying God’s word. We will meet on July 12th from 11-noon for an interest meeting in the MYF room following the service to talk about what we want to study and fellowship ideas. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Alexis Leis, Rick Roes or Rowan Dibben. We would love to see you there!

Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese Tour – Thursday August 27^th, all adults are invited to participate in the cheese tour and lunch. Meet at Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese for 11:15 a.m. Learn how Gunn’s artisan cheese is made! The tour is an hour plus long and is doable with a walker. At the end of the tour you will have the opportunity to sample 3 types of cheese. Cheeses and other local artisan products are for sale. (Bring an insulated bag or small cooler if you want to purchase some cheese!) The tour is $15 per person.  (Please pay Susan Schmitz for the cost of the tour.)  Following the tour we’ll head to Sunrise Pho Binh Thanh restaurant to have fellowship over Canadian or authentic Vietnamese cuisine! Excellent accessibility and there is lots of parking at both locations. Please sign up on the sheet in the lower foyer as we need a fairly accurate head count for the cheese tour and reservation at the restaurant.

Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese address: 445172 Gunn’s Hill Road, Woodstock

Sunrise Pho Binh Thanh address: 882 Dundas St. Woodstock

This summer, we may email/print condensed bulletins. Please refer to last Sunday’s bulletin for all the Beyond our Church Community announcements.

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 69              Sunday June 28, 2026                      No. 26

Prelude/Accompanist: Heidi Wagler                          Song Leader: Lindsay Zehr

Worship Leader: Dawn Bender                                  Greeters: Dawn & Greg Zehr  

Audio/Visual: Drystan Bender/Larry Kropf                 Coffeetime: Gloria & Tom Roth

Prelude       

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship

L: We come together as the family of faith

P: We assemble to honour the living God

L: Through Christ we become God’s holy household

P: In Christ we are bonded together to be God’s people

L: Our worship is united into oneness by the Holy Spirit

P: In communion with the Holy Spirit,

let us celebrate our unity

by Arlene M. Mark in Worship Resources(Worship Series) ed.by Arlene M. Mark (MPH,1982), 31

Opening Prayer

Songs of Gathering & Praise                

VT #84 “To God Be the Glory”

VT #88 “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty”      

Offering – Local Ministries

Time with the Children                                  Dawn Bender                                       

Scripture Reading: Esther 4:1-17                    

Message                                                         Pastor Ray

Song of Response                      

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

Sharing & Prayer of the Church                      Heidi Wagler

                                                                      Faith Community Nurse

Sending Song                                       

VT #827 “Move in Our Midst”                            

Benediction

This morning, we welcome Cassel Mennonite and Tavistock Mennonite as we gather for the first of our shared Worship services on holiday weekends this summer.

Today

Coffeetime in the basement immediately following the worship service. 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.

Please note that Sunday School classes for all ages will resume in the Fall.

This Coming Week

Monday June 29^th

• 7 p.m. Walking Club – meet at the Memorial Hall Tavistock 

Tuesday June 30^th    

• 7:30 p.m. Mission Committee Meeting

Next Sunday – July 5, 2026

10:30 a.m.

EZMC Outdoor Service in Queen’s Park Pavilion Tavistock.

Please note that we are not having a Zoom service at the park.

Prelude/Accompanist: Katie Wagler                Song Leader: Susan Schmitz                    Worship Leader: Caleb Leis                            Offering: Mission Partners

Audio: Dathan Bender                                     Sharing by: Jan Ropp

Again this summer in our message time we will hear from various congregational members who will share about their life with God. We pray that the stories and experiences shared this summer will be an encouragement, and a reminder to each of us that God is with us.  

Potluck immediately following worship. Please bring your own dishes and cutlery, lawn chairs, (and of course delicious food to share!). Drinks will be provided.

The Sunday July 5 bulletin will be sent by email on Friday July 3^rd as usual but not printed for the service. Those who regularly have bulletin deliveries will receive a paper copy.

Extending God’s Love

Please join us in praying this week for the families that are participating in VBS.

Heavenly Father, let the changes in kids’ hearts this week be an inspiration to their families. Let parents and caretakers pursue a deeper relationship with you. Let family connections grow stronger, deeper, and focused on you. Give kids strength to stand firmly rooted in their faith and relationship with you. Amen.

EZMC Announcements

Community Campfires at East Zorra Mennonite   

6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Green Space on  July 22, Aug 5 & 19, Sept 2.

Everyone of all ages is invited to bring a lawn chair, a snack, and a refreshment to drink and join us this Summer in our Green Space around the campfire for a time of fellowship, conversation, and fun. There will be no set agenda and children will be free to use the equipment and play. Alexis will plan to provide a few organized events for the children for about 30 minutes. 

We look forward to enjoying each other’s company.

Holy Movement & Walking Club summer series! Summer comes with vacation time for many & lots of opportunities to be active. This is all good, keep moving!  For those interested in Holy Movement and Walking Club over the summer, details and dates are provided below.  Mark it in your calendar and join when you can! New participants always welcome!

Holy Movement – 7:30-8:30 – Tues July 14 & 28; Tues Aug 4 & 18 

Walking Club – meet at 7pm – will continue on our bi-weekly Monday schedule – June 29; July 13 & 27; Aug 10 & 24  

Upcoming Summer Services:

Sunday August 2     Shared Worship service hosted at Tavistock Mennonite Church.

Sunday August 9     Tavistock & Area Ecumenical Worship Service in Queen’s Park.

Sunday Sept 6        Shared Worship Service hosted at Cassel Mennonite Church.

Calling all young adults! For anyone graduated from high school and under 30 we would love to get together for a time of fellowship and studying God’s word. We will meet on July 12th from 11-noon for an interest meeting in the MYF room following the service to talk about what we want to study and fellowship ideas. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Alexis Leis, Rick Roes or Rowan Dibben. We would love to see you there!

Upcoming Adult Fellowship Event – Save the Date

Thursday August 27^th Gunn’s Hill Cheese tour and lunch at Sunrise Pho Binh Thanh Ben Thah in Woodstock (more details to follow in July).

Student Aid Applications:

Students, are you considering a Christian school for your education for the next school year? (e.g. Rockway Mennonite Collegiate, Canadian Mennonite University, Conrad Grebel University College, Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary). East Zorra is committed to supporting individuals who consider Christian nurture and leadership development to be part of their education. Student aid applications are due June 30^th for the 2026/2027 school year (Sept 2026 – Aug 2027). If you are interested in applying or would like to know more, you will find the Student Aid policy and application under the church mailboxes or contact Lisa at office@ezmennonite.ca who can email the application to you. You can direct the completed applications and any questions to Finance and Facility Chair Brendan Leis at b_leis@hotmail.com.

As VBS is approaching, we are looking for some grade 6-8 volunteers that will be at VBS who are willing to come up to the front and lead the actions during our worship time. Their role will be to learn the actions to the songs and look happy and engaged while leading at the front of the church. We are planning to have one practice sometime mid June and you will get access to the videos beforehand. The videos with actions will be playing during the worship time so they will not need to be memorized, you will just need to be familiar with them. If you are interested or have any questions please contact Alexis Leis at 226-581-5661 or alexisezmennonite@gmail.com

If anyone has a white twin-sized bed sheet that they don’t need anymore and are willing to donate, (it will be cut up and used for a demonstration in one of the main sessions),  talk to Alexis.

VBS Rainforest Falls 2026 

Calling all Grandparents! 
We need your help at VBS July 6 -10. Bring your lawn chair and sit under a tree in our green space. Kids may come visit you to take a rest in the shade on a blanket, to take a break from the busyness and fun activities, when they need a friend to sit quietly with, or maybe they need a Band-Aid.
This was a favourite spot for many and gives a glimpse into our fun activities at VBS! Come for one day or all five, whatever suits your schedule. If you think you might be interested in helping in this role, please contact Ashley Witzel or Chelsea Sider. 

Beyond Our Church Community

On the Level (June edition) is now available from Mennonite Disaster Service

In this edition, you’ll read stories about homeowners, volunteers, and community members of Denare Beach, Saskatchewan. One homeowner and local firefighter, Steven, reflected on the volunteers who came to help. “I stayed because it was my job,” he said. “But the volunteers are freely giving their time to come and help people they don’t even know. They are true heroes to me.”

Read On the Level: https://conta.cc/4eseKmp

Want to learn more about volunteering with Mennonite Disaster Service? Join our Zoom call on August 24 at 7:30pm EST. This Zoom meeting provides an opportunity for prospective volunteers to learn about MDS and the many available volunteer opportunities! Register by August 19 at https://mds.org/event/ways-to-get-involved-with-mds-2/.

Volunteers Needed at MCC Thrift
Impact your community, support MCC and join a fun team as a volunteer at MCC Thrift, where every purchase is a gift to the world. The MCC New Hamburg Thrift Centre has an urgent need for volunteers. Join a community rooted in service and love. Visit here to get in touch with us and find a role that suits your abilities and interests!

Join the MCC team! We are excited to announce new opportunities to join our team and make a meaningful impact in communities across Ontario. If you are passionate about community engagement, collaboration and fostering belonging, we invite you to apply.

• Thrift Team Member – Receiving Focus (Full time, contract) – Kitchener

For full job descriptions and to apply, visit mcc.org/serve.

Join us Friday, September 25 for Rockway’s BIG Night Out at the Tapestry Hall in Cambridge. For more information and to get your tickets, visit rockway.ca/events. 

The Art of Lied & Mélodie – Free Admission to Masterclasses and Concerts (St Andrews Presbyterian, Kitchener). This Festival/Workshop, organized by Bass-Baritone Daniel Lichti, brings together pianists and singers to explore the best of Lied. Afternoon Masterclasses (July 23,24,27,28,30, 2-5pm) and Evening Concerts (July 25, July 31, Aug 1, 7pm). Attendees are invited to contribute to the Douglas Hass Music Ministry Enhancement Endowment Fund.  https://theartoflied.com/

Timmins Learning Tour – August 17-21, 2026, Timmins, OntarioWe’re excited to invite you to a unique experiential learning tour, where the focus is on building strong connections and mutual respect between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. This is more than just a trip – it’s a chance to step out of your comfort zone, connect, learn, and contribute to building bridges between communities. Learn more here.

Bucket of Thanks – Save the Date
Saturday August 29^th 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the MCC Hub in New Hamburg.
From the MCC Hub, thousands of kits and cans of meat are shipped worldwide to people in need. At Bucket of Thanks, it’s your turn to roll up your sleeves and pack a kit that will be shipped overseas. In addition, you can sample and purchase canned meat and enjoy family-friendly activities like face painting and a bouncy castle. Gather some friends and participate in a competitive Soap Structure Contest. Learn more here.

Save the Date – Saturday November 7^th Peace Conference: ​​​​Nourishing Peace Together at Rockway Mennonite Collegiate, Kitchener. Registration opens August 1st. If you’re hungry for connection, meaning and practical ways to resist despair in a world that feels overwhelming, plan to be at this year’s Peace Conference. MCC Ontario is hosting an in‑person event for people who don’t have everything figured out but who want to build peace. Attendees will:

• Learn how to practice peace in everyday life
• Hear from courageous people pursuing justice, reconciliation and care in hard places
• Share food, stories and space
• Take action, like knotting comforters and sending advocacy letters, to remind us we’re not powerless

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 69          Sunday June 21, 2026                      No. 25

Prelude/Accompanist: Glorify                                  Song Leader: Glorify

Worship Leader: Pastor Ray                                      Greeters: Marilyn & Bob Zehr      

Audio/Visual: Greg Pye/Kristen Cressman                  Coffeetime: Shirley & Phil Ruby

Prelude                 

“Revival Generation”

“10,000 Reasons”

“The Blessing”

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer

Songs of Praise      

“Battle Belongs”

“Oceans”     

Offering – Relief/Mennonite Central Committee

          Offertory “Gratitude”

Prayer of the Church – Alexis Leis

Time with the Children – Pastor Mike                                                                                            

Scripture Readings: Mark 1:9-11; Galatians 3:26-29                             

Meditation – Pastor Mike                                                    

Celebration of Baptism

Violet Bender, Rowan Dibben, Daniel Hovius, Bella Matthews, Alyssa Matthews, Claire Rempel, Erma Repei, Justine Repei, Levi Wiegand, Colton Yantzi, Darcy Zehr

Sharing of Faith Stories

Affirmation of Baptismal Vows

Congregational Prayer for those being Baptized

Prayer for those being Baptized (adapted from VT #933)           

Leader: Faithful God, we give thanks for these who have committed their lives to you. We ask for your guidance as they journey in faith. We pray that they may be a blessing in our community and in our world. We join our hearts and voices in praise:

People: For your unending grace,

          for your gift of salvation,

          for your example and sacrifice,

          for your sustaining presence,

          and for the gift of these youth and adults being baptized today,

          We give you thanks, faithful God!

Song – “The River”

(During this song those being baptized will move outside. Following the song, we invite the congregation to move outside to the Baptism tank.)

Act of Baptism

Prayer of Blessing

Benediction Song – “Praise God from Whom”

Today

Coffeetime in the basement immediately following the worship service. 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.

This Coming Week

Tuesday June 23^rd   

• 7 p.m. Strawberry Socialwith guest speaker Beth Hovius who will share her experience in Uganda on an MCC Learning Tour.

Wednesday June 24^th 

• Play Group setup
• 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Community Campfire in our greenspace. Please see announcement on page 4 for more details.

Thursday June 25^th             

• 9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group
• 7:30pm – 8:30pm – Holy Movement – note date change from our typical Tuesday gathering. New participants welcome! 

Next Sunday – June 28, 2026

Prelude/Accompanist: Heidi Wagler                Song Leader: Lindsay Zehr

Worship Leader: Dawn Bender                        Greeters: Dawn & Greg Zehr         

Audio/Visual: Drystan Bender/Larry Kropf       Offering: Local Ministries

Coffeetime: Gloria & Tom Roth                       Message: Pastor Ray

We will be welcoming Cassel Mennonite and Tavistock Mennonite for worship at East Zorra as we meet for the first of our shared Worship services on holidays weekend this summer.

EZMC Announcements

Community Campfires at East Zorra Mennonite   

6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Green Space on June 24, July 22, August 5 & 19, September 2.

Everyone of all ages is invited to bring a lawn chair, a snack, and a refreshment to drink and join us this Summer in our Green Space around the campfire for a time of fellowship, conversation, and fun. There will be no set agenda and children will be free to use the equipment and play. Alexis will plan to provide a few organized events for the children for about 30 minutes. 

We look forward to enjoying each other’s company.

Many of you give generously of your time to support the life and ministry of our Church. As the Gift Discernment Committee looks ahead to the 2026–27 year, we want to share the list of positions that will need to be filled. We invite you to prayerfully consider whether you might be interested in, or feel called to serve in one of these roles. If you’re unsure what a particular position involves, job descriptions are available and can help you learn more. If you feel drawn to explore a role—or would simply like to have a conversation—please speak with a member of the committee by June 21, as we prepare to begin the recruitment process.

The roles we are looking to fill are – JCET (Jr. Christian Education Team), JWalker Sponsors (Jr Youth), MYF Sponsors, Youth Ministry Team, Car Parker, Food Committee, Gift Discernment Committee, Staff Congregation Relation Committee, Health Ministry Team, Mission Committee, Usher, Worship Visual Committee, AV Operators

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”   1 Peter 4:10 NIV

Thank you!  

Your Gift Discernment Committee,

Kristen Cressman, Jon Witzel, Kim Leis and Pastor Ray

Holy Movement & Walking Club summer series! Summer comes with vacation time for many & lots of opportunities to be active. This is all good, keep moving!  For those interested in Holy Movement and Walking Club over the summer, details and dates are provided below.  Mark it in your calendar and join when you can! New participants always welcome!

Holy Movement – 7:30-8:30 – Thurs June 25; Tues July 14 & 28; Tues Aug 4 & 18 

Walking Club – meet at 7pm – will continue on our bi-weekly Monday schedule – June  15, 29; July 13 & 27; Aug 10 & 24  

Upcoming Summer Services:

Sunday July 5        EZMC Worship Service in Queen’s Park.

Sunday August 2     Shared Worship service hosted at Tavistock Mennonite Church.

Sunday August 9     Tavistock & Area Ecumenical Worship Service in Queen’s Park.

Sunday Sept 6        Shared Worship Service hosted at Cassel Mennonite Church.

Calling all young adults! For anyone graduated from high school and under 30 we would love to get together for a time of fellowship and studying God’s word. We will meet on July 12th from 11-noon for an interest meeting in the MYF room following the service to talk about what we want to study and fellowship ideas. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Alexis Leis, Rick Roes or Rowan Dibben. We would love to see you there!

Upcoming Adult Fellowship Event – Save the Date

Tuesday August 27^th Gunn’s Hill Cheese tour and lunch at Sunrise Pho Binh Thanh Ben Thah in Woodstock (more details to follow in July).

Student Aid Applications:

Students, are you considering a Christian school for your education for the next school year? (e.g. Rockway Mennonite Collegiate, Canadian Mennonite University, Conrad Grebel University College, Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary).  East Zorra is committed to supporting individuals who consider Christian nurture and leadership development to be part of their education. Student aid applications are due June 30^th for the 2026/2027 school year (Sept 2026 – Aug 2027). If you are interested in applying or would like to know more, you will find the Student Aid policy and application under the church mailboxes or contact Lisa at office@ezmennonite.ca who can email the application to you. You can direct the completed applications and any questions to Finance and Facility Chair Brendan Leis at b_leis@hotmail.com.

As VBS is approaching, we are looking for some grade 6-8 volunteers that will be at VBS who are willing to come up to the front and lead the actions during our worship time. Their role will be to learn the actions to the songs and look happy and engaged while leading at the front of the church. We are planning to have one practice sometime mid June and you will get access to the videos beforehand. The videos with actions will be playing during the worship time so they will not need to be memorized, you will just need to be familiar with them. If you are interested or have any questions please contact Alexis Leis at 226-581-5661 or alexisezmennonite@gmail.com

If anyone has a white twin-sized bed sheet that they don’t need anymore and are willing to donate, (it will be cut up and used for a demonstration in one of the main sessions),  talk to Alexis.

VBS Rainforest Falls 2026 

Calling all Grandparents! 
We need your help at VBS July 6 -10. Bring your lawn chair and sit under a tree in our green space. Kids may come visit you to take a rest in the shade on a blanket, to take a break from the busyness and fun activities, when they need a friend to sit quietly with, or maybe they need a Band-Aid.
This was a favourite spot for many and gives a glimpse into our fun activities at VBS! Come for one day or all five, whatever suits your schedule. If you think you might be interested in helping in this role, please contact Ashley Witzel or Chelsea Sider. 

Beyond Our Church Community

On the Level (June edition) is now available from Mennonite Disaster Service

In this edition, you’ll read stories about homeowners, volunteers, and community members of Denare Beach, Saskatchewan. One homeowner and local firefighter, Steven, reflected on the volunteers who came to help. “I stayed because it was my job,” he said. “But the volunteers are freely giving their time to come and help people they don’t even know. They are true heroes to me.” Read On the Level: https://conta.cc/4eseKmp

Volunteers Needed at MCC Thrift
Impact your community, support MCC and join a fun team as a volunteer at MCC Thrift, where every purchase is a gift to the world. The MCC New Hamburg Thrift Centre has an urgent need for volunteers. Join a community rooted in service and love. Visit here to get in touch with us and find a role that suits your abilities and interests!

Join the MCC team! We are excited to announce new opportunities to join our team and make a meaningful impact in communities across Ontario. If you are passionate about community engagement, collaboration and fostering belonging, we invite you to apply.

Indigenous Neighbours Engagement Associate (Full time, contract) – Kitchener

For full job descriptions and to apply, visit mcc.org/serve.

Join us Friday, September 25 for Rockway’s BIG Night Out at the Tapestry Hall in Cambridge. For more information and to get your tickets, visit rockway.ca/events. 

Tuesday June 23^rd 12 – 1 p.m., Lunch and Listen: MCC in Asia @ 50 Kent Ave., Kitchener. Bring your own lunch and hear about MCC’s work in Southeastern and Northeastern Asia. We’ll hear about MCC’s work of relief, development and peace in this region of the world, with a special update on MCC’s work in Myanmar. Special guests Arthur and Phyllis Mann are MCC Area Directors for Southeast and Northeast Asia and are based in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Attend in person at the MCC office or live on our Facebook page. Learn more here.

Tuesday June 23^rd 7 p.m. Project Ploughshares 50th Anniversary exhibit launch at Grebel Gallery. Meet some of the people and archival materials behind Project Ploughshares’ peace and disarmament efforts over the last 50 years. Light refreshments provided. uwaterloo.ca/centre-peace-advancement/grebel-gallery

The Art of Lied & Mélodie – Free Admission to Masterclasses and Concerts (St Andrews Presbyterian, Kitchener). This Festival/Workshop, organized by Bass-Baritone Daniel Lichti, brings together pianists and singers to explore the best of Lied. Afternoon Masterclasses (July 23,24,27,28,30, 2-5pm) and Evening Concerts (July 25, July 31, Aug 1, 7pm). Attendees are invited to contribute to the Douglas Hass Music Ministry Enhancement Endowment Fund.  https://theartoflied.com/

Bucket of Thanks – Save the Date
Saturday August 29^th 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the MCC Hub in New Hamburg.
From the MCC Hub, thousands of kits and cans of meat are shipped worldwide to people in need. At Bucket of Thanks, it’s your turn to roll up your sleeves and pack a kit that will be shipped overseas. In addition, you can sample and purchase canned meat and enjoy family-friendly activities like face painting and a bouncy castle. Gather some friends and participate in a competitive Soap Structure Contest. Learn more here.

Save the Date – Saturday November 7^th Peace Conference: ​​​​Nourishing Peace Together at Rockway Mennonite Collegiate, Kitchener. Registration opens August 1st.

If you’re hungry for connection, meaning and practical ways to resist despair in a world that feels overwhelming, plan to be at this year’s Peace Conference. MCC Ontario is hosting an in‑person event for people who don’t have everything figured out but who want to build peace. Attendees will:

• Learn how to practice peace in everyday life
• Hear from courageous people pursuing justice, reconciliation and care in hard places
• Share food, stories and space
• Take action, like knotting comforters and sending advocacy letters, to remind us we’re not powerless

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 69              Sunday June 14, 2026                      No. 24

Prelude/Accompanist: Bethany Zehr     Song Leader: Susan Schmitz

Greeter: Dawn Bender                          Audio/Visual: Todd Bender/Brian Wagler         

Worship Leader: Alexis Leis                  Coffeetime: Megan MacDonald & Russ Schumm

Prelude       

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship

Opening Prayer

Songs of Gathering & Praise                

VT #7   “Come, Let Us All Unite to Sing”

VT #37 “Be Still and Know”                                       

Offering – Leadership

Time with the Children                                  Alexis Leis                                                     

Scripture Reading: Ruth 2:8-13, 4:13-17                             

Message                                                         Pastor Ray

Song of Response                      

VT #527 “Bless the Arms That Comfort”  

CENT Volunteer Appreciation                         Dawn Bender & Caleb Leis (CENT Lay Ministers)

Grade 8 Grad Recognition                               JCET

Sharing & Prayer of the Church                      Pastor Mike

Sending Song                                       

VT #700 “O God of Blessings”                           

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. JCET would like to invite you to our year-end Sunday School Celebration and Picnic. Children in grades 1-8 will participate in games and activities in the Green Space during the regular Sunday school hour. JCET is excited to announce that we have also rented an inflated obstacle course for the kids to use, weather permitting. 

Please note that we will not be providing supervision for the Nursery and Preschool class but encourage these children to still join us in the Green Space while being accompanied by an adult. They are welcome to play in the sandbox and enjoy the outdoor space.

12 p.m. Following the Sunday school hour we invite everyone to join us for a free BBQ picnic lunch. This picnic is for our entire church family. All ages are welcome!

Please bring your lawn chairs and water bottles.

If the weather does not cooperate, we will be moving everything indoors but will not have the inflatable obstacle course.

We hope to see you there!

This Coming Week

Monday June 15  

• 7 p.m. Join us for Walking Club! We will walk a couple laps around the “race-track” at the New Hamburg Fair Grounds. Meet at the parking lot off Jacob Street near the ball diamonds. Everyone is welcome.  

Tuesday June 16^th  

• 6 p.m. Church Ministry Council Meeting

Wednesday June 17^th             

• 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Coffee & Bible Study
• Play Group setup
• 7:30 p.m. Women’s Bible Study and campfire in the green space

Thursday June 18^th             

• 9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group

Friday June 19^th             

• 7-9 Junior Youth Year End Celebration at Dustin & Erin Yantzi’s. Outdoor Games and Campfire. We hope to see you there.
• MYF Year End Campfire and Outdoor Games

Next Sunday – June 21, 2026

Baptism Sunday

Prelude/Accompanist: Glorify                                  Song Leader: Glorify

Worship Leader: Pastor Ray & Pastor Mike                 Greeters: Marilyn & Bob Zehr      

Audio/Visual: Greg Pye/Kristen Cressman                  Offering: Relief/MCC

Coffeetime: Shirley & Phil Ruby

We invite your prayers for those being baptized next Sunday

EZMC Announcements

May 2026 Donations Received Summary

Offering Schedule – $41, 791

Saturday June 20^th 2-4 p.m. You are invited to an 80^th Birthday Party Open House for Sherman Roth at Oxford Haus (65 Oxford St. Stratford). Best Wishes only.

If any Members of the Church would be interested in providing weekly custodial services for our church building, please reach out to Brett Zehr (519-272-3518) before June 17th. This is a paid position, approximately 10-14 hours a week, and would require some flexibility with hours.  

Alternatively, we would also consider someone to assist a contract custodial service by providing “touch up” cleaning throughout the week (estimated 3-5 hours). Thank you for your consideration – Trustees

Holy Movement & Walking Club summer series! Summer comes with vacation time for many & lots of opportunities to be active. This is all good, keep moving!  For those interested in Holy Movement and Walking Club over the summer, details and dates are provided below.  Mark it in your calendar and join when you can! New participants always welcome!

Holy Movement – 7:30-8:30 – Thurs June 25; Tues July 14 & 28; Tues Aug 4 & 18 

Walking Club – meet at 7pm – will continue on our bi-weekly Monday schedule – June  15, 29; July 13 & 27; Aug 10 & 24  

Upcoming Summer Services:

Sunday June 21     Baptism Sunday.

Sunday June 28     We will be welcoming Cassel Mennonite and Tavistock Mennonite at East Zorra as we meet for the first of our shared Worship services on holidays weekend this summer.

Sunday July 5        EZMC Worship Service in Queen’s Park.

Sunday August 2     Shared Worship service hosted at Tavistock Mennonite Church.

Sunday August 9     Tavistock & Area Ecumenical Worship Service in Queen’s Park.

Sunday Sept 6        Shared Worship Service hosted at Cassel Mennonite Church.

Upcoming Adult Fellowship Events – Save the Dates

Tuesday June 23^rd 7 p.m. Strawberry Socialwith guest speaker Beth Hovius who will share her experience in Uganda on an MCC Learning Tour.

Tuesday August 27^th Gunn’s Hill Cheese tour and lunch at Sunrise Pho Binh Thanh Ben Thah in Woodstock (more details to follow in July).

Please note that the 2026 Camp Subsidy Form deadline is June 15^th and needs to be returned to our treasurer, Becky Bender by that date. This can be done either by email (treasurer@ezmennonite.ca) or put in her church mailbox. Forms are available in the literature rack beside the main bulletin board or you may email office@ezmennonite.ca to receive one. If you have any questions please contact one of the Christian Education Lay Ministers – Dawn Bender or Caleb Leis.

Student Aid Applications:

Students, are you considering a Christian school for your education for the next school year? (e.g. Rockway Mennonite Collegiate, Canadian Mennonite University, Conrad Grebel University College, Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary).  East Zorra is committed to supporting individuals who consider Christian nurture and leadership development to be part of their education. Student aid applications are due June 30^th for the 2026/2027 school year (Sept 2026 – Aug 2027). If you are interested in applying or would like to know more, you will find the Student Aid policy and application under the church mailboxes or contact Lisa at office@ezmennonite.ca who can email the application to you. You can direct the completed applications and any questions to Finance and Facility Chair Brendan Leis at b_leis@hotmail.com.

Community Campfires at East Zorra Mennonite   

6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Green Space on June 24, July 22, August 5 & 19, September 2.

Everyone of all ages is invited to bring a lawn chair, a snack, and a refreshment to drink and join us this Summer in our Green Space around the campfire for a time of fellowship, conversation, and fun. There will be no set agenda and children will be free to use the equipment and play. Alexis will plan to provide a few organized events for the children for about 30 minutes. 

We look forward to enjoying each other’s company.

As VBS is approaching, we are looking for some grade 6-8 volunteers that will be at VBS who are willing to come up to the front and lead the actions during our worship time. Their role will be to learn the actions to the songs and look happy and engaged while leading at the front of the church. We are planning to have one practice sometime mid June and you will get access to the videos beforehand. The videos with actions will be playing during the worship time so they will not need to be memorized, you will just need to be familiar with them. If you are interested or have any questions please contact Alexis Leis at 226-581-5661 or alexisezmennonite@gmail.com

If anyone has a white twin-sized bed sheet that they don’t need anymore and are willing to donate, (it will be cut up and used for a demonstration in one of the main sessions),  talk to Alexis.

VBS Rainforest Falls 2026 

Calling all Grandparents! 
We need your help at VBS July 6 -10. Bring your lawn chair and sit under a tree in our green space. Kids may come visit you to take a rest in the shade on a blanket, to take a break from the busyness and fun activities, when they need a friend to sit quietly with, or maybe they need a Band-Aid.
This was a favourite spot for many and gives a glimpse into our fun activities at VBS! Come for one day or all five, whatever suits your schedule. If you think you might be interested in helping in this role, please contact Ashley Witzel or Chelsea Sider. 

Beyond Our Church Community

Volunteers Needed at MCC Thrift
Impact your community, support MCC and join a fun team as a volunteer at MCC Thrift, where every purchase is a gift to the world. The MCC New Hamburg Thrift Centre has an urgent need for volunteers. Join a community rooted in service and love. Visit here to get in touch with us and find a role that suits your abilities and interests!

Join the MCC team! We are excited to announce new opportunities to join our team and make a meaningful impact in communities across Ontario. If you are passionate about community engagement, collaboration and fostering belonging, we invite you to apply.

Indigenous Neighbours Engagement Associate (Full time, contract) – Kitchener

For full job descriptions and to apply, visit mcc.org/serve.

Get your Early Bird tickets for Rockway’s BIG Night Out before we change the price on June 15! Join us Friday, September 25 at the Tapestry Hall in Cambridge. For more information and to get your tickets, visit rockway.ca/events. 

Tuesday June 23^rd 12 – 1 p.m., Lunch and Listen: MCC in Asia @ 50 Kent Ave., Kitchener. Bring your own lunch and hear about MCC’s work in Southeastern and Northeastern Asia. We’ll hear about MCC’s work of relief, development and peace in this region of the world, with a special update on MCC’s work in Myanmar. Special guests Arthur and Phyllis Mann are MCC Area Directors for Southeast and Northeast Asia and are based in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Attend in person at the MCC office or live on our Facebook page. Learn more here.

Tuesday June 23^rd 7 p.m. Project Ploughshares 50th Anniversary exhibit launch at Grebel Gallery. Meet some of the people and archival materials behind Project Ploughshares’ peace and disarmament efforts over the last 50 years. Light refreshments provided. uwaterloo.ca/centre-peace-advancement/grebel-gallery

The Art of Lied & Mélodie – Free Admission to Masterclasses and Concerts (St Andrews Presbyterian, Kitchener). This Festival/Workshop, organized by Bass-Baritone Daniel Lichti, brings together pianists and singers to explore the best of Lied. Afternoon Masterclasses (July 23,24,27,28,30, 2-5pm) and Evening Concerts (July 25, July 31, Aug 1, 7pm). Attendees are invited to contribute to the Douglas Hass Music Ministry Enhancement Endowment Fund.  https://theartoflied.com/

Bucket of Thanks – Save the Date
Saturday August 29^th 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the MCC Hub in New Hamburg.
From the MCC Hub, thousands of kits and cans of meat are shipped worldwide to people in need. At Bucket of Thanks, it’s your turn to roll up your sleeves and pack a kit that will be shipped overseas. In addition, you can sample and purchase canned meat and enjoy family-friendly activities like face painting and a bouncy castle. Gather some friends and participate in a competitive Soap Structure Contest. Learn more here.

Attention VBS Volunteers – Orientation Night is on Monday June 8^th at 8 p.m. Please make it a priority to attend this brief but important information night – thank you! 

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 69          Sunday June 7, 2026                      No. 23

Today, Sunday June 7, 2026 we will join Meheret Evangelical Church in Kitchener. (456 Krug Street, Kitchener, ON N2B 1L1)

Start time is 10 a.m. Please consider carpooling to support those less comfortable driving in the city and to accommodate parking at the church.

Following the service there will be a fellowship time. Coffee, tea and Ethiopian bread will be served.

Please note that there is no worship service here at EZMC.

This Coming Week

Monday June 8  

• 8 – 9 p.m. VBS Volunteer Orientation.

Tuesday June 9^th  

• 12 p.m.  Pies are to be dropped off at church for the Hidden Acres Chicken BBQ & Pie Auction.
• 5-7 p.m. Hidden Acres 59th Annual Chicken BBQ & 18th Annual Pie Auction Fundraiser. Please visit www.hiddenacres.ca for more details and to order your tickets. Tickets need to be purchased in advance. $22 (1 Piece Meal), $27 (2 Piece Meal).

Wednesday June 10^th             

• 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Coffee & Bible Study
• Play Group setup
• EZMC will volunteer at the MCC meat cannery in New Hamburg. Approximately 700kg of chicken will be canned that day and we are looking for help! Sign up on the bulletin board for the morning (9-12) or afternoon (12:30-3:30), we can have up to 15 people per shift. Any questions please speak to Dylan Yantzi. 

Thursday June 11^th             

• 9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group

Next Sunday – June 14, 2026

The Fire and the Cloud: Finding Jesus in the Journey of the Old Testament

The Foreigner’s Grace: Ruth 4:13-22 (The Line of David)

Prelude/Accompanist: Bethany Zehr                         Song Leader: Susan Schmitz

Greeter: Dawn Bender                                              Worship Leader: Alexis Leis

Audio/Visual: Todd Bender/Brian Wagler                   Offering: Leadership

Coffeetime: Megan MacDonald & Russ Schumm          Message: Pastor Ray

8:30 – 9:30 a.m. Faith Formation Class will meet in the MYF room.

During Worship there will be a CENT Volunteer Appreciation.

11 a.m. JCET would like to invite you to our year-end Sunday School Celebration and Picnic. Children in grades 1-8 will participate in games and activities in the Green Space during the regular Sunday school hour. JCET is excited to announce that we have also rented an inflated obstacle course for the kids to use, weather permitting. 

Please note that we will not be providing supervision for the Nursery and Preschool class but encourage these children to still join us in the Green Space while being accompanied by an adult. They are welcome to play in the sandbox and enjoy the outdoor space.

12 p.m. Following the Sunday school hour we invite everyone to join us for a free BBQ picnic lunch. This picnic is for our entire church family. All ages are welcome!

Please bring your lawn chairs and water bottles.

If the weather does not cooperate, we will be moving everything indoors but will not have the inflatable obstacle course.

We hope to see you there!

Extending God’s Love

The MYF appreciates your prayers for the 23 youth and 5 leaders going to the Gospel Coalition Youth Conference at Redeemer University on June 5-6. We are hoping for a faith-building and fun weekend for all attending.  

Please join us in praying for our VBS.

Dear God, thank you for going before us as we prepare for VBS. Help us to meet any need for supplies, decorations, and volunteers we may have. We are grateful for each child that has registered to attend VBS. Thank you for the opportunity to pour into the lives of these kids in deep and meaningful ways. We pray above all else that You are glorified in our VBS. Amen.

EZMC Announcements

May 2026 Donations Received Summary

Offering Schedule – $41, 791

The Hidden Acres Chicken BBQ and Pie Auctionwill be taking place on June 9^th. EZMC has been asked to provide 10 pies. If this is something you could do, please sign the sheet on the bulletin board or contact any member of the Mission Committee. The pie boxes are on the bench outside Lisa’s office. Please pick up as many as needed for the pies you are making. The pies need to be delivered to church on Tuesday June 9^th by noon. Thanks so much!

Wednesday June 17^th 7:30 p.m. Women’s Bible study and campfire in the Green Space.

Saturday June 20^th 2-4 p.m. You are invited to an 80^th Birthday Party Open House for Sherman Roth at Oxford Haus (65 Oxford St. Stratford). Best Wishes only.

If any Members of the Church would be interested in providing weekly custodial services for our church building, please reach out to Brett Zehr (519-272-3518) before June 17th. This is a paid position, approximately 10-14 hours a week, and would require some flexibility with hours.  

Alternatively, we would also consider someone to assist a contract custodial service by providing “touch up” cleaning throughout the week (estimated 3-5 hours). Thank you for your consideration – Trustees

Holy Movement & Walking Club summer series! Summer comes with vacation time for many & lots of opportunities to be active. This is all good, keep moving!  For those interested in Holy Movement and Walking Club over the summer, details and dates are provided below.  Mark it in your calendar and join when you can! New participants always welcome!

Holy Movement – 7:30-8:30 – Thurs June 25; Tues July 14 & 28; Tues Aug 4 & 18 

Walking Club – meet at 7pm – will continue on our bi-weekly Monday schedule – June 1, 15, 29; July 13 & 27; Aug 10 & 24  

Upcoming Summer Services:

Sunday June 14     The Sunday School Year End Celebration will follow with lunch. 

Sunday June 21     Baptism Sunday.

Sunday June 28     We will be welcoming Cassel Mennonite and Tavistock Mennonite at East Zorra as we meet for the first of our shared Worship services on holidays weekend this summer.

Sunday July 5        EZMC Worship Service in Queen’s Park.

Sunday August 2     Shared Worship service hosted at Tavistock Mennonite Church.

Sunday August 9     Tavistock & Area Ecumenical Worship Service in Queen’s Park.

Sunday Sept 6        Shared Worship Service hosted at Cassel Mennonite Church.

Upcoming Adult Fellowship Events – Save the Dates

Tuesday June 23^rd 7 p.m. Strawberry Socialwith guest speaker Beth Hovius who will share her experience in Uganda on an MCC Learning Tour.

Tuesday August 27^th Gunn’s Hill Cheese tour and lunch at Sunrise Pho Binh Thanh Ben Thah in Woodstock (more details to follow in July).

Please note that the 2026 Camp Subsidy Form deadline is June 15^th and needs to be returned to our treasurer, Becky Bender by that date. This can be done either by email (treasurer@ezmennonite.ca) or put in her church mailbox. Forms are available in the literature rack beside the main bulletin board or you may email office@ezmennonite.ca to receive one. If you have any questions please contact one of the Christian Education Lay Ministers – Dawn Bender or Caleb Leis.

Student Aid Applications:

Students, are you considering a Christian school for your education for the next school year? (e.g. Rockway Mennonite Collegiate, Canadian Mennonite University, Conrad Grebel University College, Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary).  East Zorra is committed to supporting individuals who consider Christian nurture and leadership development to be part of their education. Student aid applications are due June 30^th for the 2026/2027 school year (Sept 2026 – Aug 2027). If you are interested in applying or would like to know more, you will find the Student Aid policy and application under the church mailboxes or contact Lisa at office@ezmennonite.ca who can email the application to you. You can direct the completed applications and any questions to Finance and Facility Chair Brendan Leis at b_leis@hotmail.com.

Community Campfires at East Zorra Mennonite   

6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Green Space on June 24, July 22, August 5 & 19, September 2.

Everyone of all ages is invited to bring a lawn chair, a snack, and a refreshment to drink and join us this Summer in our Green Space around the campfire for a time of fellowship, conversation, and fun. There will be no set agenda and children will be free to use the equipment and play. Alexis will plan to provide a few organized events for the children for about 30 minutes. 

We look forward to enjoying each other’s company.

For those that are on the subscription list for Salt & Light and the Rejoice magazine you will find them in your church mailbox. This will be the last issue for those who cancelled starting this Fall. If you recently asked to have your name added to the list you will receive your first issue in late August.

VBS Rainforest Falls 2026 

Calling all Grandparents! 
We need your help at VBS July 6 -10. Bring your lawn chair and sit under a tree in our green space. Kids may come visit you to take a rest in the shade on a blanket, to take a break from the busyness and fun activities, when they need a friend to sit quietly with, or maybe they need a Band-Aid.
This was a favourite spot for many and gives a glimpse into our fun activities at VBS! Come for one day or all five, whatever suits your schedule. If you think you might be interested in helping in this role, please contact Ashley Witzel or Chelsea Sider. 

As VBS is approaching, we are looking for some grade 6-8 volunteers that will be at VBS who are willing to come up to the front and lead the actions during our worship time. Their role will be to learn the actions to the songs and look happy and engaged while leading at the front of the church. We are planning to have one practice sometime mid June and you will get access to the videos beforehand. The videos with actions will be playing during the worship time so they will not need to be memorized, you will just need to be familiar with them. If you are interested or have any questions please contact Alexis Leis at 226-581-5661 or alexisezmennonite@gmail.com

Beyond Our Church Community

Saturday June 13^th 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Strawberry Thanksgiving and Communion atSix Nations Polytechnic, Ohsweken, ON. This year’s event will seek to build on the momentum of last year’s conversation about the Spiritual Covenant, which is a way to acknowledge Indigenous jurisdiction over lands through an annual token lease payment. $25 is recommended to help cover the cost of lunch. Visit mcc.org/strawberry-thanksgiving to learn more.

Get your Early Bird tickets for Rockway’s BIG Night Out before we change the price on June 15! Join us Friday, September 25 at the Tapestry Hall in Cambridge. For more information and to get your tickets, visit rockway.ca/events. 

Come to Hidden Acres Summer Camp!

Are you looking for a fun, safe summer camp experience? Hidden Acres’ camp provides great opportunities to connect with God, each other and nature. Campers get to enjoy swimming, canoeing, archery, nature exploration, rock climbing, low ropes, camp-outs, sports, group games and more, all in the company of peers and our fun and supportive staff team. Check out www.hiddenacres.ca for our dates & rates. Contact our Program Director, Josh Penfold at josh@hiddenacres.ca for more information. See you for summer 2026!

Lunch and Listen: MCC in Asia
Tuesday, June 23, 12 – 1:00 p.m., 50 Kent Ave., Kitchener
Bring your own lunch and hear about MCC’s work in Southeastern and Northeastern Asia. We’ll hear about MCC’s work of relief, development and peace in this region of the world, with a special update on MCC’s work in Myanmar. Special guests Arthur and Phyllis Mann are MCC Area Directors for Southeast and Northeast Asia and are based in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Attend in person at the MCC office or live on our Facebook page. Learn more here.