Weekly Announcements

A reminder to all the children about the Children’s Blessing of Hobbies and Passions that will take place during worship this Sunday

Each child is welcome to bring or wear an item that represents what they are passionate about. This can be their hockey, soccer, or baseball jersey. It can be their dance uniform, musical instrument whatever they participate in – we want to bless, give thanks, and bring honor to God with it.

East Zorra Mennonite Church Bulletin

Volume 67              Sunday September 29, 2024                      No. 39

Sunday September 29, 2024

What is the Gospel?

The Gospel is about a God who rescues

Prelude/Accompanist: Worship Band               Song Leader: Lindsay Zehr

Worship Leader: Krista & Kris Matthews          Offering: Leadership                  

Message: Pastor Mike                                      Greeter: Diane Gerber

Audio/Visual: Dathan Bender/Brian Wagler     

Coffee Hosts: Megan MacDonald & Russ Schumm

Prelude       

“How Deep the Father’s Love for Us”

“The Wonderful Cross”

“Amazing Grace (My Chains are gone)

“There is a Redeemer”

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer

Song of Gathering & Praise

VT #555 “Lord, I am fondly, earnestly longing”

“Mighty to Save”

Offering – Leadership

Offertory “Be Unto Your Name”

Time with the Children/Blessing          Pastor Mike                      

Scripture Reading: Romans 6:1-14

Message                                               Pastor Mike

Song of Response   “Not Yet I but Through Christ In Me”

Commissioning Sunday School Teachers         CENT Lay Ministers

Prayer of the Church       Pastor Ray                                     

Sending Song          VT #617 “When Peace Like a River”

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. Attention Parents: During Coffeetime please take advantage of the opportunity to fill out registration/waiver forms for your children in the basement. Our Safe Church Policy requires that parents complete a separate form for each child involved in Sunday School, Junior Youth, and MYF who are under the age of 18. 

Attention Volunteers: Our Safe Church Policy requires all volunteers that work with children, youth, seniors and other vulnerable persons complete and sign a volunteer commitment form for each program year (ie. Sept 1 2024 – Aug 31 2025). Copies of the  forms are available downstairs during coffee time. The EZMC Safe Church Policy and Social Media Policy are available if you need to read them before signing. 

Junior Sunday School classes Nursery to Grade 8 will begin.

Senior Sunday School classes continue. 

This Coming Week

Tuesday October 1^st 

• 10 a.m. Care Team Meeting

Wednesday October 2^nd

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

• Play Group set up
• 7 p.m. Glorify Rehearsal

Thursday October 3^rd            

• 9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group

Friday October 4^th 

• 7 p.m. MYF – Banana Rally

Next Sunday – October 6, 2024

What is the Gospel?

The Gospel is about a God who transforms us

Prelude/Accompanist/Song Leader: Glorify    Worship Leader: Brendan Leis

Greeter: Dawn Bender                                    Offering: Mission Partners

Audio/Visual: Todd Bender/Larry Kropf Message: Pastor Ray

Coffee Hosts: Carol & Owen Cook

Communion will be served during Worship

12 – 5 pm Private Party in the green space

12:30 pm Junior Youth (JWalkers) Hike

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.

Sewing Circle has been cancelled for the month of October. Hopefully we can meet in November.

The Anabaptist Community Bible Orders are now due. If you plan to order a bible please sign the sheet today, Sunday September 29^th. All the details are on the main bulletin board. 

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.

Formal classes will begin today September 29^th! 

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. 

A reminder that all who volunteer with children during Junior Sunday School are required to submit a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) and Volunteer Commitment Form before volunteering. If you have a VSC that was done within the last 6 months (because you volunteered with another organization ie. school or sports team) you can submit it to update your EZMC file. Please check in with Lisa in the office to see if your VSC is current or if you need to apply for a new one. Thanks so much.

Save the date! Saturday December 7

(Inclement weather date Sunday December 8)

The Christmas Story – Live Nativity!  

We are hoping to do this again.  Please talk to Sheryl Leis or Kim Leis if you are interested in being a part of this special day.  We look forward to another fun time.

Beyond our Church Community

Monday September 30^th – The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was included in the 94 Calls to Action in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s final report. This federal holiday is intended to recognize and commemorate the legacy of residential schools, honour Survivors, their families and communities and ensure that public commemoration of the history and heritage of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process. We’ve created a learning resource on how we can all participate in reconciliation. Go to mcc.org/resources/national-day-truth-and-reconciliation to download the resource.

“Leading the Church Through Conflict” is designed to help those in paid or unpaid church leadership roles think through the unique challenges of group dynamics within a faith community and how to best address and transform polarities that may arise.  Plan to join us October 1 – 4, 2024 each morning online for this valuable interdenominational learning opportunity led by Dr. Betty Pries.  Registration fee required. uwaterloo.ca/conflict-management/workshops

Saturday October 5^th 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Bucket of Thanks at Material Resources Warehouse, 65 Heritage Dr, New Hamburg. This fall, the Material Resources warehouse is opening its doors and welcoming visitors to an event for the whole family with games, snacks and hands-on activities for all ages. Enjoy activities for kids, pack a kit or two and experience the joy of community service. Admission is free, but we kindly ask for donations of large bath or laundry bars of soap (in original wrapping) to help fill our kits. Learn more at mcc.org/events/bucket-thanks.

October 21-25 2024 Learning Tour: Travelling Together Through Truth
Reserve your space today! Get ready to be inspired and learn as we embark on an exciting journey of connecting and engaging with First Nations communities, organizations and partners of MCC Ontario’s Indigenous Neighbours program in Timmins. To learn more, conatct Cam McEachern at 705-264-2494, ext. 220 or by email at cammceachern@mcco.ca.

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

Monday October 7^th Fall Seniors Retreat at Hidden Acres

You are invited to the beautiful Hidden Acres Camp to explore the theme of Falling in Love with Creation – For God so loved the world. What does loving God’s good creation look like? What changes in us when we pay loving attention to creation? Come join us for a day of encouragement, reflection and good food. To register visit hiddenacres.ca/programs/seniors-retreat. See poster for more details.

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

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, including an upcoming fundraiser we will be hosting in New Hamburg on Saturday November 2nd featuring Darryl Sittler, former Toronto Maple Leaf player from St. Jacobs. 

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.

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

Friday November 29 – Saturday November 30 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.

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 67              Sunday September 22, 2024                      No. 38

Sunday September 22, 2024

What is the Gospel?

The Gospel is about a God who Loves and Forgives

Prelude: Brandy Sell                                       Accompanist: Bethany Zehr

Worship Leader: Caleb Leis                            Song Leader: Myron Ruby

Greeters: Jessica & Tyler Yantzi                      Offering: Local Ministries

Audio/Visual: Drystan Bender/Larry Kropf       Message: Pastor Ray

Coffee Hosts: Kristen & Daryl Cressman

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer

Song of Gathering & Praise

VT # 1 “Summoned by the God Who Made Us”

VT #76 “Holy, Holy, Holy!”

Offering – Local Ministries

Time with the Children    Sheryl Leis             

Scripture Reading: Luke 15:11-32

Message                           Pastor Ray

Song of Response   VT #156 “There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy”

Commissioning of New Lay Ministers

Caleb Leis begins as Lay Minister if Christian Education

Marv Yantzi begins as a Care Team Member

Prayer of the Church       Pastor Mike                                    

Sending Song          VT #841 “As You Go Out from Here”

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. Attention Parents: During Coffeetime please take advantage of the opportunity to fill out registration/waiver forms for your children in the basement. Our Safe Church Policy requires that parents complete a separate form for each child involved in Sunday School, Junior Youth, and MYF who are under the age of 18. 

Attention Volunteers: Our Safe Church Policy requires all volunteers that work with children, youth, seniors and other vulnerable persons complete and sign a volunteer commitment form for each program year (ie. Sept 1 2024 – Aug 31 2025). Copies of the  forms are available downstairs during coffee time. The EZMC Safe Church Policy and Social Media Policy are available if you need to read them before signing. 

Junior Sunday School classes JK to Grade 8 will meet in the assembly room and then move to the green space. Please dress for the weather. Nursery/Preschool children are welcome to join us outside accompanied by a parent.

Junior Sunday School teacher meeting during the last half of the Sunday School hour.

Senior Sunday School classes continue. 

This Coming Week

Tuesday September 24^th

• 6 p.m. SCRC Meeting

Wednesday September 25^th    

• Play Group set up

Thursday September 26^th           

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

Friday September 27^th

• 7 p.m. MYF – Welcome Night

Next Sunday – September 29, 2024

What is the Gospel?

The Gospel is about a God who rescues

Prelude/Accompanist: Worship Band               Song Leader: Lindsay Zehr

Worship Leader: Krista & Kris Matthews          Offering: Leadership                  

Message: Pastor Mike                                      Greeter: Diane Gerber

Audio/Visual: Dathan Bender/Brian Wagler     

Coffee Hosts: Megan MacDonald & Russ Schumm

Children’s Blessing of Hobbies and Passions

September 29 During the Worship Service

“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

A new year is upon us and with that comes the return of the many activities, sports, hobbies and interests that our children take up each year.

We want to celebrate all that our kids are passionate about by having a special time of blessing during the Children’s story next week.

Each child is welcome to bring or wear an item that represents what they are passionate about. This can be their hockey, soccer, or baseball jersey. It can be their dance uniform, musical instrument whatever they participate in – we want to bless, give thanks, and bring honor to God with it.

EZMC Announcements

The Anabaptist Community Bible Orders are due soon on Monday September 30^th

Celebrate 500 years of Anabaptism with the Anabaptist Community Bible. This study Bible features commentary from 60 Anabaptist scholars, biblical insights from 16th-century Anabaptists, and marginal notes from nearly 600 study groups from Anabaptists around the globe. The Anabaptist Community Bible uses the Common English Bible (CEB) translation. There are 3 editions available. Please see the bulletin board for more info. If you would like to pre-order a bible please put your name on the sheet posted on the main bulletin board or email Lisa at office@emennonite.ca. Ordering in bulk will mean savings on shipping costs. Payment will be due when our order is placed in early October. Publication date is January 2025.

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.

Sunday September 22^nd, all children from Kindergarten-Grade 8 will meet in the assembly room at the beginning of the Sunday school hour. We will have a short devotional time and then head outside to enjoy time playing together in the Green Space. Nursery/Preschool children are welcome to join us with the accompaniment of an adult. 

Formal classes will begin September 29th. 

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.

Please note there will be a short teacher meeting for grades 1-8, on Sept. 22nd, during the second half of the Sunday school hour. During this time we will walk you through how to use the curriculum and answer any questions you may have. New this year, the Grades 1-5 and JWalkers (Junior Youth) will all be doing the same “Think Orange” curriculum. 

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

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

A reminder that all who volunteer with children during Junior Sunday School are required to submit a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) and Volunteer Commitment Form before volunteering. If you have a VSC that was done within the last 6 months (because you volunteered with another organization ie. school or sports team) you can submit it to update your EZMC file. Please check in with Lisa in the office to see if your VSC is current or if you need to apply for a new one. Thanks so much.

Save the date! Saturday December 7

(Inclement weather date Sunday December 8)

The Christmas Story – Live Nativity!  

We are hoping to do this again.  Please talk to Sheryl Leis or Kim Leis if you are interested in being a part of this special day.  We look forward to another fun time.

Beyond our Church Community

***NEW DATE*** Monday September 23^rd MCC Ontario annual general meeting
7 p.m. Grounded in the church, our Annual General Meeting (AGM) is an opportunity for us to be accountable, transparent and responsive to you. We invite you to join in celebrating the impact you’ve made of sharing God’s love and compassion in the lives of so many in Ontario and around the world. Delegates from constituent congregations are invited and authorized to vote. The meeting will take place over Zoom. For more information, go to mcc.org/Ontario-AGM.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was included in the 94 Calls to Action in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s final report. This federal holiday is intended to recognize and commemorate the legacy of residential schools, honour Survivors, their families and communities and ensure that public commemoration of the history and heritage of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process. We’ve created a learning resource on how we can all participate in reconciliation. Go to mcc.org/resources/national-day-truth-and-reconciliation to download the resource.

MCC Ontario will recognize this important day on Tuesday September 24^th. All thrift shops and offices will be closed, and staff will spend this day in learning activities related to the ongoing impact of this dark chapter in Canada’s history.

Montreal River Alternative Service Camp Historical Plaque to be installed!

The Mennonite Historical Society of Ontario and the Ontario Heritage Trust will install a commemorative historical plaque at the site of the WW2 Alternative Service (Conscientious Objector) Camp at Montreal River, just north of Sault Ste Marie, Ontario. All are invited to the official unveiling of the plaque on Thursday, September 26 at 4:00 pm at Conrad Grebel University College. The next day, September 27, the MHSO has arranged for two buses to go from Waterloo to Montreal River for the installation of the plaque on September 28. Overnight accommodation has been reserved for bus participants for Friday, September 27 so they can take part in the Plaque installation the next day at the Montreal River site. The buses will then return to Waterloo.

For further details, and to reserve a spot on this trip (accommodation deadline is August 27), go to https://www.mhso.org/content/montreal-river-alternative-service-camp-bus-trip

Saturday October 5^th 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Bucket of Thanks at Material Resources Warehouse, 65 Heritage Dr, New Hamburg. This fall, the Material Resources warehouse is opening its doors and welcoming visitors to an event for the whole family with games, snacks and hands-on activities for all ages. Enjoy activities for kids, pack a kit or two and experience the joy of community service. Admission is free, but we kindly ask for donations of large bath or laundry bars of soap (in original wrapping) to help fill our kits. Learn more at mcc.org/events/bucket-thanks.

Monday October 7^th Fall Seniors Retreat at Hidden Acres

You are invited to the beautiful Hidden Acres Camp to explore the theme of Falling in Love with Creation – For God so loved the world. What does loving God’s good creation look like? What changes in us when we pay loving attention to creation? Come join us for a day of encouragement, reflection and good food. To register visit hiddenacres.ca/programs/seniors-retreat. See poster for more details.

The September edition of On the Level from MDS is now available. In this edition, you’ll read about Mario Cruz, an MDS Service Scholarship recipient whose love for camp ministry intertwined with an MDS response this summer.

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

Thank you to the hundreds of dedicated volunteers and donors who supported MDS responses across Canada this spring and summer! Because of your support, five houses were rebuilt and four homes repaired for wildfire survivors in the North Shuswap and Lytton communities of BC. And in Bancroft, ON, the family project built cabins to support a summer camp’s programs.

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 67              Sunday September 15, 2024                      No. 37

Sunday September 15, 2024

What is the Gospel?

Surprisingly Good News About Jesus Christ the King

Prelude: Katie Wagler                                     Accompanist: Katie Wagler

Worship Leader: Dawn Bender              Song Leader: Connie Yantzi

Greeters: Carol & Owen Cook                         Offering: Leadership

Audio/Visual: Greg Pye/Brian Wagler              Message: Pastor Mike

Coffee Hosts: Gloria & Tom Roth

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer

Song of Gathering & Praise

VT #7 “Come let us all unite to sing”

Offering – Leadership

Song of Praise

VT #594 “Over my Head”

Time with the Children              Pastor Mike

Scripture Readings: Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24

Message                                     Pastor Mike

Song of Response

“You are my King”

Prayer of the Church                 Pastor Ray                 

Sending Song

HWB #355 “Savior, like a shepherd lead us”

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. Attention Parents: During Coffeetime please take advantage of the opportunity to fill out registration/waiver forms for your children in the basement. Our Safe Church Policy requires that parents complete a separate form for each child involved in Sunday School, Junior Youth, and MYF who are under the age of 18. 

Attention Volunteers: Our Safe Church Policy requires all volunteers that work with children, youth, seniors and other vulnerable persons complete and sign a volunteer commitment form for each program year (ie. Sept 1 2024 – Aug 31 2025). Copies of the  forms are available downstairs during coffee time. The EZMC Safe Church Policy and Social Media Policy are available if you need to read them before signing. 

Junior Sunday School classes JK to Grade 8 will meet in the assembly room and then move to the green space. Please dress for the weather. Nursery/Preschool children are welcome to join us outside with a parent.

Senior Sunday School classes will begin. 

This Coming Week

Tuesday September 17^th

• 7 p.m. Mission Committee Meeting

Wednesday September 18^th    

• Play Group set up

Thursday September 19^th           

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

Friday September 20^th

• MYF Sponsor/Parent Meeting. Youth will meet outside in the green space during the meeting.

Saturday September 21^st

• 6:30 – 9 p.m. JWalkers (Junior Youth) in the green space. Please see announcement on page 6 for more information.

Next Sunday – September 22, 2024

What is the Gospel?

The Gospel is about a God who forgives

Prelude: Brandy Sell                                       Accompanist: Bethany Zehr

Worship Leader: Caleb Leis                            Song Leader: Myron Ruby

Greeters: Jessica & Tyler Yantzi            Offering: Local Ministries

Audio/Visual: Drystan Bender/Larry Kropf       Message: Pastor Ray

Coffee Hosts: Kristen & Daryl Cressman

On Monday September 16, Wallace Steinman will turn 99. Wallace is the oldest member of East Zorra Mennonite Church.

Wallace is currently in the hospital and we would like to bless him with a Birthday Card shower filled with notes of encouragement.  It would be wonderful to get 99 cards! We invite you to prepare a card and bring it along to the church by Sunday.

The Care Team will arrange for the delivery of the cards on Monday.  

Thanks so much for sharing in this gift to Wallace!

There will be a table by the greeters on Sunday morning where you can put your card.

EZMC Announcements

Refugee Resettlement Update as of September 15, 2024:

Thank you for your prayerful and generous support of our refugee resettlement commitments. While additional funds are in need, your support has been gratefully received. 

Prayer Shawl will not be meeting in Sept. 

I look forward to seeing you Tuesday, October 15, 1:30 to 3:30, 182 Rudy Ave, Tavistock, ON. 

Anyone interested in joining us for knit and chat is always welcome.

Jean

As the fall approaches, your Junior Christian Education Team (JCET) invites you to prayerfully consider how you will support our children’s Christian Education Program. Possibly teacher, helper, make playdough, purchase snacks, prayers, are a few ideas. The sign-up sheet will soon be posted on the bulletin board but will also be online or talk to Jess Yantzi, Erin Yantzi., Holly Barron, or Sue Martin. 

A reminder that all who volunteer with children during Junior Sunday School are required to submit a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) and Volunteer Commitment Form before volunteering. If you have a VSC that was done within the last 6 months (because you volunteered with another organization ie. school or sports team) you can submit it to update your EZMC file. Please check in with Lisa in the office to see if your VSC is current or if you need to apply for a new one. Thanks so much.

Attention J-Walkers (Junior Youth)

We are excited to kick off the new year with our first event at the church, in the Green Space, on Saturday September 21^st from 6:30 -9 p.m. We will have a campfire with s’mores and play some games/sports outside. This will also be our welcome night to all the new grade 6’s who will be joining us. Bring a lawn chair and a friend! Looking forward to seeing you there. 

**Parents please plan to stay a few extra minutes at drop off to fill out waiver forms**

The Anabaptist Community Bible Orders are due soon.

Celebrate 500 years of Anabaptism with the Anabaptist Community Bible. This study Bible features commentary from 60 Anabaptist scholars, biblical insights from 16th-century Anabaptists, and marginal notes from nearly 600 study groups from Anabaptists around the globe. The Anabaptist Community Bible uses the Common English Bible (CEB) translation. There are 3 editions available, Hardcover ($55.49), Soft Touch ($69.49) and Genuine Leather ($152.49). If you would like to pre-order a bible please put your name on the sheet posted on the main bulletin board or email Lisa at office@emennonite.ca. by September 30, 2024. Please specify which edition of bible you would like. Ordering in bulk will mean savings on shipping costs. Please see the main bulletin board for photos of the bibles and example pages or go to www.CommonWord.ca for more information. Once we know how many bibles we will be ordering we can determine shipping costs per bible. Payment will be due when our order is placed in early October. Publication date is January 2025.

Save the date! Saturday December 7.

The Christmas Story – Live Nativity!  

We are hoping to do this again.  Please talk to Sheryl Leis or Kim Leis if you are interested in being a part of this special day.  We look forward to another fun time.

Beyond our Church Community

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..

Interfaith Counselling Centre has a number of support groups that are beginning in the Fall. Please see the poster on the bulletin board for more information.

Steinmann Mennonite Church is celebrating their bicentennial this year.  We invite you to a “Hymn Sing: Music Through the Years” on Friday September 20^th at

7 pm in the sanctuary.  An offering will be received for the Wilmot Family Resource Center.  Following the singing, there will be refreshments in the Fellowship Hall.  All are welcome.

***NEW DATE*** Monday September 23^rd MCC Ontario annual general meeting
7 p.m. Grounded in the church, our Annual General Meeting (AGM) is an opportunity for us to be accountable, transparent and responsive to you. We invite you to join in celebrating the impact you’ve made of sharing God’s love and compassion in the lives of so many in Ontario and around the world. Delegates from constituent congregations are invited and authorized to vote. The meeting will take place over Zoom. For more information, go to mcc.org/Ontario-AGM.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was included in the 94 Calls to Action in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s final report. This federal holiday is intended to recognize and commemorate the legacy of residential schools, honour Survivors, their families and communities and ensure that public commemoration of the history and heritage of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process. We’ve created a learning resource on how we can all participate in reconciliation. Go to mcc.org/resources/national-day-truth-and-reconciliation to download the resource.

MCC Ontario will recognize this important day on Tuesday September 24^th. All thrift shops and offices will be closed, and staff will spend this day in learning activities related to the ongoing impact of this dark chapter in Canada’s history.

Montreal River Alternative Service Camp Historical Plaque to be installed!

The Mennonite Historical Society of Ontario and the Ontario Heritage Trust will install a commemorative historical plaque at the site of the WW2 Alternative Service (Conscientious Objector) Camp at Montreal River, just north of Sault Ste Marie, Ontario. All are invited to the official unveiling of the plaque on Thursday, September 26 at 4:00 pm at Conrad Grebel University College. The next day, September 27, the MHSO has arranged for two buses to go from Waterloo to Montreal River for the installation of the plaque on September 28. Overnight accommodation has been reserved for bus participants for Friday, September 27 so they can take part in the Plaque installation the next day at the Montreal River site. The buses will then return to Waterloo.

For further details, and to reserve a spot on this trip (accommodation deadline is August 27), go to https://www.mhso.org/content/montreal-river-alternative-service-camp-bus-trip

Saturday October 5^th 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Bucket of Thanks at Material Resources Warehouse, 65 Heritage Dr, New Hamburg. This fall, the Material Resources warehouse is opening its doors and welcoming visitors to an event for the whole family with games, snacks and hands-on activities for all ages. Enjoy activities for kids, pack a kit or two and experience the joy of community service. Admission is free, but we kindly ask for donations of large bath or laundry bars of soap (in original wrapping) to help fill our kits. Learn more at mcc.org/events/bucket-thanks.

Monday October 7^th Fall Seniors Retreat at Hidden Acres

You are invited to the beautiful Hidden Acres Camp to explore the theme of Falling in Love with Creation – For God so loved the world. What does loving God’s good creation look like? What changes in us when we pay loving attention to creation? Come join us for a day of encouragement, reflection and good food. To register visit hiddenacres.ca/programs/seniors-retreat. See poster for more details.

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 67              Sunday September 8, 2024                      No. 36

Sunday September 8, 2024

Prelude/Accompanist/Song Leader: Glorify    Worship Leader: Marlow Gingerich

Audio/Visual: Todd Bender/Larry Kropf Offering: Refugee Fund

Pre-Service Singing   

“Amazing Love”

“Goodness of God”

“All the People Said Amen”

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship & Prayer

Songs of Gathering & Praise

“Come, Thou Fount”

“Grace Greater than our sin”

Offering – Refugee Fund

Offertory      “Everyday”

Time with the Children – Jeanette Bender

Scripture Readings: Jeremiah 1: 4 to 9 & 1 Timothy 4:12

Sharing by Alexis Leis with Pastor Ray

Song of Response

“Battle Belongs”

Prayer of the Church                    

Sending Song

VT #393 “Build Your Kingdom Here”

Benediction

Today

Due to the weekend weather forecast our Outdoor Worship Service will be moved indoors. As we regather following our summer vacations, cottage and trailer times we are still inviting everyone to bring your own lunch so we can share in further conversation as we eat and share together following the service.

Please note that we will not be serving coffee/tea/juice at the picnic so please bring your own drinks along with your lunch.

This Coming Week

Wednesday September 11^th    

• Play Group set up
• 6:30 pm Youth Ministry Team Meeting
• 7 p.m. Treasurer and Finance Discussion

Thursday September 12^th           

• 9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group

Next Sunday – September 15, 2024

Prelude: Katie Wagler                           Accompanist: Katie Wagler

Worship Leader: Dawn Bender              Song Leader: Connie Yantzi

Greeters: Jessica & Tyler Yantzi            Offering: Leadership

Audio/Visual: Greg Pye/Brian Wagler    Message: Pastor Mike

Coffee Hosts: Megan MacDonald & Russ Schumm

We will begin a new worship series called, What is the Gospel?

Surprisingly Good News About Jesus Christ the King

11 a.m. Attention Parents: During Coffeetime please take advantage of the opportunity to fill out registration/waiver forms for your children in the basement. Our Safe Church Policy requires that parents complete a separate form for each child involved in Sunday School, Junior Youth, and MYF who are under the age of 18. 

Junior Sunday School classes JK to Grade 8 will meet in the assembly room and then move to the green space. Please dress for the weather. Nursery/Preschool children are welcome to join us outside with a parent.

Senior Sunday School classes will begin. 

EZMC Announcements

August 2024 Donations Received Summary

Offering Schedule Designations – $33,939

Refugee Fund – $1,850

Please pickup your church mail today. You will find the September calendar and the Ministry Position List. There may also be other things that were placed in there over the summer. If you notice that a family member or neighbour has not been able to get their mail and you are willing to deliver it, please do that. Thanks so much.

As the fall approaches, your Junior Christian Education Team (JCET) invites you to prayerfully consider how you will support our children’s Christian Education Program. Possibly teacher, helper, make playdough, purchase snacks, prayers, are a few ideas. The sign-up sheet will soon be posted on the bulletin board but will also be online or talk to Jess Yantzi, Erin Yantzi., Holly Barron, or Sue Martin.  (See weekly email for online link).

A reminder that all who volunteer with children during Junior Sunday School are required to submit a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) and Volunteer Commitment Form before volunteering. If you have a VSC that was done within the last 6 months (because you volunteered with another organization ie. school or sports team) you can submit it to update your EZMC file. Please check in with Lisa in the office to see if your VSC is current or if you need to apply for a new one. Thanks so much.

Attention J-Walkers (Junior Youth)

We are excited to kick off the new year with our first event at the church, in the Green Space, on Saturday September 21^st from 6:30 -9 p.m. We will have a campfire with s’mores and play some games/sports outside. This will also be our welcome night to all the new grade 6’s who will be joining us. Bring a lawn chair and a friend! Looking forward to seeing you there. 

**Parents please plan to stay a few extra minutes at drop off to fill out waiver forms**

Update on Refugee Resettlement: Bibi Shah Bubo arrived safely July 15 and Daud, Sohaila and their 3 youngest children are arriving Aug 12. Please pray for a safe flight. They look forward to being reunited in Kitchener. Tamim Tohky’s family has welcomed the Tohki’s at the Toronto Pearson Airport. Mansoud and Mansor and Bibi have been settling in well in their new home, 50 Ingleside St., Kitchener. Please prayerfully and generously support our refugee resettlement commitments as costs have risen since we approved this mission ministry. Our initial financial commitments have risen from $50,000 to approx. $75,000.

The Anabaptist Community Bible Orders are due soon.

Celebrate 500 years of Anabaptism with the Anabaptist Community Bible. This study Bible features commentary from 60 Anabaptist scholars, biblical insights from 16th-century Anabaptists, and marginal notes from nearly 600 study groups from Anabaptists around the globe. The Anabaptist Community Bible uses the Common English Bible (CEB) translation. There are 3 editions available, Hardcover ($55.49), Soft Touch ($69.49) and Genuine Leather ($152.49). If you would like to pre-order a bible please put your name on the sheet posted on the main bulletin board or email Lisa at office@emennonite.ca. by September 30, 2024. Please specify which edition of bible you would like. Ordering in bulk will mean savings on shipping costs. Please see the main bulletin board for photos of the bibles and example pages or go to www.CommonWord.ca for more information. Once we know how many bibles we will be ordering we can determine shipping costs per bible. Payment will be due when our order is placed in early October. Publication date is January 2025.

Save the date! Saturday December 7.

The Christmas Story – Live Nativity!  

We are hoping to do this again.  Please talk to Sheryl Leis or Kim Leis if you are interested in being a part of this special day.  We look forward to another fun time.

Beyond our Church Community

Thursday September 12^th 4 p.m.. Book Launch | Celebrate the launch of Grebel Dean and Associate Professor of History and Theological Studies Troy Osborne’s new book Radicals and Reformers: A Survey of Global Anabaptist History. The afternoon will feature a short program and reception. Books will be available for purchase and signing. More information at uwaterloo.ca/grebel/events/radicals-reformers

Wednesday September 18^th 4, 6:30 – 9 p.m., 50 Kent Ave., Kitchener

Training Active Bystanders community event. Active Bystander Training teaches participants to intervene in abusive or isolating situations, promoting pro-social behavior and community support. Suitable for ages 13+. Cost: $25 (no refunds). Capacity is limited – register today to reserve your seat. Learn more and register at mcc.org/events.

GTA Mennonite Festival Saturday September 21^st from 10 a.ma – 4 p.m.  Stouffville. It starts with the food! Come hungry for traditional and not-so-traditional Mennonite favourites. Bring the whole family for fun activities like wagon rides, apple picking, and more. Shop for beautiful crafts, fresh produce, and don’t miss the famous Quilt Auction. More info.

***NEW DATE*** Monday September 23^rd MCC Ontario annual general meeting
7 p.m. Grounded in the church, our Annual General Meeting (AGM) is an opportunity for us to be accountable, transparent and responsive to you. We invite you to join in celebrating the impact you’ve made of sharing God’s love and compassion in the lives of so many in Ontario and around the world. Delegates from constituent congregations are invited and authorized to vote. The meeting will take place over Zoom. For more information, go to mcc.org/Ontario-AGM.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was included in the 94 Calls to Action in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s final report. This federal holiday is intended to recognize and commemorate the legacy of residential schools, honour Survivors, their families and communities and ensure that public commemoration of the history and heritage of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process. We’ve created a learning resource on how we can all participate in reconciliation. Go to mcc.org/resources/national-day-truth-and-reconciliation to download the resource.

MCC Ontario will recognize this important day on Tuesday September 24^th. All thrift shops and offices will be closed, and staff will spend this day in learning activities related to the ongoing impact of this dark chapter in Canada’s history.

Montreal River Alternative Service Camp Historical Plaque to be installed!

The Mennonite Historical Society of Ontario and the Ontario Heritage Trust will install a commemorative historical plaque at the site of the WW2 Alternative Service (Conscientious Objector) Camp at Montreal River, just north of Sault Ste Marie, Ontario. All are invited to the official unveiling of the plaque on Thursday, September 26 at 4:00 pm at Conrad Grebel University College. The next day, September 27, the MHSO has arranged for two buses to go from Waterloo to Montreal River for the installation of the plaque on September 28. Overnight accommodation has been reserved for bus participants for Friday, September 27 so they can take part in the Plaque installation the next day at the Montreal River site. The buses will then return to Waterloo.

For further details, and to reserve a spot on this trip (accommodation deadline is August 27), go to https://www.mhso.org/content/montreal-river-alternative-service-camp-bus-trip

Saturday October 5^th 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Bucket of Thanks at Material Resources Warehouse, 65 Heritage Dr, New Hamburg. This fall, the Material Resources warehouse is opening its doors and welcoming visitors to an event for the whole family with games, snacks and hands-on activities for all ages. Enjoy activities for kids, pack a kit or two and experience the joy of community service. Admission is free, but we kindly ask for donations of large bath or laundry bars of soap (in original wrapping) to help fill our kits. Learn more at mcc.org/events/bucket-thanks.

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 67              Sunday September 1, 2024                      No. 35

Sunday September 1, 2024

10 a.m. Shared Worship Service with EZMC, Cassel and Tavistock, will be hosted at Cassel Mennonite Church.

Today

The family of Dan & Gwen Matthews invite you to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with them today, Sunday, September 1, from 2 to 4 pm at the Queen’s Park Pavilion. Best wishes only please. We will be creating a scrapbook with cards and notes to help remember the day, so if you are unable to attend please feel free to leave a card in our church mailbox, or mail directly.     

Kris and Melanie and families. 

This Coming Week

Tuesday September 3^rd     

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

Wednesday September 4^th    

• 7 p.m. Play Group set up

Thursday September 5^th           

• 9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group

Saturday September 7^th

• This year at East Zorra we are planning to put a float in the Tavistock Fall Fair parade on Saturday, September 7^th at 11 am! Our vision is to have an intergenerational float that will reflect the budding church community we have here. Following along with the theme “bees and honey”, we would love to focus the float around “planting seeds of faith” with all ages dressed as gardeners or kids as flowers, bees and butterflies. If you are interested in being involved in decorating the float, or participating in it, please reach out to Amy Yantzi: amy.yantzi@outlook.com or 519-301-9707
• Adult Fellowship – Meet at church at 11:45 am to pick up your tickets for the play “Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz” and arrange to carpool to Blyth for play beginning at 2 pm. Please note that instead of going to Swiss Chalet for supper, we will be going across the street from the theatre to the Blyth Inn.

Next Sunday – September 8, 2024

Prelude/Accompanist/Song Leader: Glorify    Offering: Refugee Fund

Worship Leader: Marlow Gingerich                 A/V: Todd Bender/Larry Kropf         

Outdoor Worship Service and Gathering in our Greenspace.  As we regather following our summer vacations, cottage and trailer times we invite everyone to bring along a picnic lunch so we can share in further conversation as we eat and share together following the service. We are looking forward to seeing you on September 8! If the weather doesn’t cooperate with us, we will move the service indoors and the picnic to the basement.

Please note that we will not be serving coffee/tea/juice at the picnic so please bring your own drinks along with your picnic lunch.

EZMC Announcements

As the fall approaches, your Junior Christian Education Team (JCET) invites you to prayerfully consider how you will support our children’s Christian Education Program. Possibly teacher, helper, make playdough, purchase snacks, prayers, are a few ideas. The sign-up sheet will soon be posted on the bulletin board but will also be online or talk to Jess Yantzi, Erin Yantzi., Holly Barron, or Sue Martin.  (See weekly email for online link).

A reminder that all who volunteer with children during Junior Sunday School are required to submit a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) and Volunteer Commitment Form before volunteering. If you have a VSC that was done within the last 6 months (because you volunteered with another organization ie. school or sports team) you can submit it to update your EZMC file. Please check in with Lisa in the office to see if your VSC is current or if you need to apply for a new one. Thanks so much.

Update on Refugee Resettlement: Bibi Shah Bubo arrived safely July 15 and Daud, Sohaila and their 3 youngest children are arriving Aug 12. Please pray for a safe flight. They look forward to being reunited in Kitchener. Tamim Tohky’s family has welcomed the Tohki’s at the Toronto Pearson Airport. Mansoud and Mansor and Bibi have been settling in well in their new home, 50 Ingleside St., Kitchener. Please prayerfully and generously support our refugee resettlement commitments as costs have risen since we approved this mission ministry. Our initial financial commitments have risen from $50,000 to approx. $75,000.

The Anabaptist Community Bible.

Celebrate 500 years of Anabaptism with the Anabaptist Community Bible. This study Bible features commentary from 60 Anabaptist scholars, biblical insights from 16th-century Anabaptists, and marginal notes from nearly 600 study groups from Anabaptists around the globe. The Anabaptist Community Bible uses the Common English Bible (CEB) translation. There are 3 editions available, Hardcover ($55.49), Soft Touch ($69.49) and Genuine Leather ($152.49). If you would like to pre-order a bible please put your name on the sheet posted on the main bulletin board or email Lisa at office@emennonite.ca. by September 30, 2024. Please specify which edition of bible you would like. Ordering in bulk will mean savings on shipping costs. Please see the main bulletin board for photos of the bibles and example pages or go to www.CommonWord.ca for more information. Once we know how many bibles we will be ordering we can determine shipping costs per bible. Payment will be due when our order is placed in early October. Publication date is January 2025.

Beyond our Church Community

The August edition of On the Level is now available from Mennonite Disaster Service. In this edition, you’ll read about last year’s devasting fire in the North Shuswap area, British Columbia, including: a key volunteer’s personal connections there and a wildfire survivor’s experience. Read On the Level: https://conta.cc/3Av5ttD

MCC Thrift Stores are looking for household donations!
Have you been meaning to clear out household items that you no longer use, but haven’t gotten around to it yet? Well, now’s the time to do it! Our thrift shops need  household donations to keep supplies strong on the sales floor. Pack up some boxes and head over to your local thrift shop today!

Help make a difference with MCC! We urgently need your support to provide soap to communities where it’s in short supply. Whether bath soap (85g or larger, in wrapper) or laundry soap (Fels Naptha, Sunlight, or Zote), every donation counts.

Please consider donating today to meet this crucial need. You can drop off your donations at your local MCC Thrift Shop, MCC office, or the Material Resources Warehouse. Together, we can ensure hygiene and health for those who need it most. Thank you for your generosity!

Interfaith Counselling Centre has a number of support groups that are beginning in the Fall. Please see the poster on the bulletin board for more information.

Tuesday September 3^rd 12 – 12:45 p.m., Stories from Africa: Lunch and Listen with Vurayayi Pugeni at50 Kent Ave., Kitchener
Come and be inspired by powerful stories from the heart of Southern and Central Africa! Join us in the Community Room at 50 Kent Ave., Kitchener live on on Facebook, where Vurayayi Pugeni, MCC’s Area Director for Southern and Central Africa and Nigeria, will share firsthand experiences that will uplift and challenge us. Can’t make it in person? No problem—tune in live on our Facebook page! Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect and learn!

Silver Lake Mennonite Camp has extended their Executive Director application deadline to Sept. 9. The ideal candidate is an excellent communicator with strong financial management and people skills. Those interested can view the job description at slmc.ca. Please send your resume and cover letter to boardchair@slmc.ca. 

SLMC Fall Retreats – Registration is open for Fall Retreats at Silver Lake Mennonite Camp, including Men’s Retreat (Sep 13-15), Bruce Trail Hikes, and Work Weekend (Nov 1-3). Register at slmc.ca/retreats. 

Thursday September 12^th 4 p.m.. Book Launch | Celebrate the launch of Grebel Dean and Associate Professor of History and Theological Studies Troy Osborne’s new book Radicals and Reformers: A Survey of Global Anabaptist History. The afternoon will feature a short program and reception. Books will be available for purchase and signing. More information at uwaterloo.ca/grebel/events/radicals-reformers

Wednesday September 18^th 4, 6:30 – 9 p.m., 50 Kent Ave., Kitchener

Training Active Bystanders community event. Active Bystander Training teaches participants to intervene in abusive or isolating situations, promoting pro-social behavior and community support. Suitable for ages 13+. Cost: $25 (no refunds). Capacity is limited – register today to reserve your seat. Learn more and register at mcc.org/events.

GTA Mennonite FestivalSaturday September 21^st from 10 a.ma – 4 p.m.  Stouffville. It starts with the food! Come hungry for traditional and not-so-traditional Mennonite favourites. Bring the whole family for fun activities like wagon rides, apple picking, and more. Shop for beautiful crafts, fresh produce, and don’t miss the famous Quilt Auction. More info.

***NEW DATE*** Monday September 23^rd MCC Ontario annual general meeting
7 p.m. Grounded in the church, our Annual General Meeting (AGM) is an opportunity for us to be accountable, transparent and responsive to you. We invite you to join in celebrating the impact you’ve made of sharing God’s love and compassion in the lives of so many in Ontario and around the world. Delegates from constituent congregations are invited and authorized to vote. The meeting will take place over Zoom. For more information, go to mcc.org/Ontario-AGM.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was included in the 94 Calls to Action in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s final report. This federal holiday is intended to recognize and commemorate the legacy of residential schools, honour Survivors, their families and communities and ensure that public commemoration of the history and heritage of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process. We’ve created a learning resource on how we can all participate in reconciliation. Go to mcc.org/resources/national-day-truth-and-reconciliation to download the resource.

MCC Ontario will recognize this important day on Tuesday September 24^th. All thrift shops and offices will be closed, and staff will spend this day in learning activities related to the ongoing impact of this dark chapter in Canada’s history.

Montreal River Alternative Service Camp Historical Plaque to be installed!

The Mennonite Historical Society of Ontario and the Ontario Heritage Trust will install a commemorative historical plaque at the site of the WW2 Alternative Service (Conscientious Objector) Camp at Montreal River, just north of Sault Ste Marie, Ontario. All are invited to the official unveiling of the plaque on Thursday, September 26 at 4:00 pm at Conrad Grebel University College. The next day, September 27, the MHSO has arranged for two buses to go from Waterloo to Montreal River for the installation of the plaque on September 28. Overnight accommodation has been reserved for bus participants for Friday, September 27 so they can take part in the Plaque installation the next day at the Montreal River site. The buses will then return to Waterloo.

For further details, and to reserve a spot on this trip (accommodation deadline is August 27), go to https://www.mhso.org/content/montreal-river-alternative-service-camp-bus-trip

Saturday October 5^th 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Bucket of Thanks at Material Resources Warehouse, 65 Heritage Dr, New Hamburg. This fall, the Material Resources warehouse is opening its doors and welcoming visitors to an event for the whole family with games, snacks and hands-on activities for all ages. Enjoy activities for kids, pack a kit or two and experience the joy of community service. Admission is free, but we kindly ask for donations of large bath or laundry bars of soap (in original wrapping) to help fill our kits. Learn more at mcc.org/events/bucket-thanks.

Learning Tour: Travelling Together Through Truth
October 21-25, Timmins, ON
Get ready to be inspired and learn as we embark on an exciting journey of connecting and engaging with First Nations communities, organizations and partners of MCC Ontario’s Indigenous Neighbours program in Timmins. To learn more, contact Cam McEachern at 705-264-2494, ext. 220 or by email at cammceachern@mcco.ca.

Men Listening, Men Talking Retreat
November 29-30, 2024 at Hidden Acres Mennonite Camp & Retreat Centre
Who are men called to be in 2024 and beyond, and how can they live lives that matter? Join a two-day retreat to take a deep dive into honest conversations on healthy masculinity. The cost is $115 and includes refreshments, meals and accommodations. Learn more at mcc.org/events/men-listening-men-talking-retreat.