Weekly Bulletins

Bulletin – May 10, 2026

May 8, 2026 | Filed Under: Weekly Bulletins

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 69 Sunday May 10, 2026 No. 19

Prelude/Accompanist: Glorify Song Leader: Glorify

Greeters: Tracey & Larry Kropf Worship Leader: Pastor Mike

Audio/Visual: Greg Pye/Larry Kropf Coffeetime: Michelle & Brad Brenneman

Prelude

“Firm Foundation” (He Won’t)

“Promises”

“Jesus Lifted Me”

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship

Opening Prayer

Songs of Gathering & Praise

“Praise”

“Oceans” (Where Feet May Fail)

Offering – Mennonite Church Eastern Canada & Mennonite Church Canada

Offertory “Great are You Lord”

Moment for Missions Dylan Yantzi

Time with the Children

Scripture Readings: Exodus 13:17-22; Hebrews 11:23-27; 12:1-2

Message “The Lord went in front of them…”Pastor Ray

Song of Response “Yes I Will”

Prayer of the Church Pastor Ray

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

Benediction

Today

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

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

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

This Coming Week

Tuesday May 12^th

7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Holy Movement – Do your fitness routines need some spring renewal? It’s not too late to join! Bring an exercise mat, water bottle, and light weights (there are a few extras at the church if you don’t have any).

Wednesday May 13^th

10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Coffee & Bible Study
Play Group setup
6 p.m. Church Ministry Council Meeting

Thursday May 14^th

9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group
7:30 p.m. Ladies Bible Study meets in the MYF room.

Next Sunday – May 17, 2026

Prelude/Accompanist: Katie Wagler Song Leader: Caleb Leis

Greeters: Gloria & Tom Roth Worship Leader: Dylan Yantzi

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

Coffeetime: Janet & Marv Yantzi Message: Fanosie Legesse

Fanosie Legesse, Intercultural Minister form Mennonite Church Eastern Canada will share the morning message and help prepare us for our time with Meheret Evangelical Church on June 7. Fanosie’s wife Dianne will share with the children.

Please note that there are no Sunday School classes on this day.

EZMC Announcements

On Sunday May 24^th EZMC will provide the Sunday Afternoon Services at The Maples and peopleCare. It’s a two hour commitment at the very most. The half hour service involves reading scripture, a poem or short story, and singing followed by saying hello to the residents. The first service begins at 1:30 p.m. and all is done by 3:30 p.m. at the latest. Please reach out to Pastor Ray if you would like to participate.

Finance & Facilities Update

Thank you all for your generous giving so far this year. Below is a quarterly update as of March 31, 2026 along with a comparison to last years’ totals at that date.

Donut Project

The New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale is on Saturday, May 30 and there are lots of volunteer opportunities! Consider supporting the donut project in one of the following ways:

– sharing plastic 500ml containers (will be reused then recycled) – box under mailboxes

– making mashed potatoes – details and sign up sheet on bulletin board

– mixing or kneading in the donut tent – sign up sheet on bulletin board

– post-sale clean up at church – sign up sheet on bulletin board

– set up at the donut tent (Friday morning) and/or tear down at the donut tent (Saturday afternoon) – contact Bill Roth kilbride@rogers.com

Any questions contact Greg and Dawn gdzehr@gmail.com

Lace up your walking or running shoes and join the East Zorra Mennonite Church team for this year’s Run for Relief on Saturday, May 30 at 8:00 a.m. Whether you want to walk or run, there are 2 km and 5 km route options available — a great opportunity to get active, connect with others, and support MCC.

Join or sponsor the East Zorra team click the link or look for our team name: EZ Stride Collective Run for Relief Team Page

If you have any questions, please speak with Megan MacDonald or Bethany Zehr.

It is soon time to renew our subscriptions to Rejoice Magazine and Salt & Light.

A brief description is below for those who are not familiar with these publications. If you are not on the subscription lists for either or both and would like to be OR if you no longer want to receive these, please contact Lisa at 519-655-6824 or email office@ezmennonite.ca by Tuesday May 26^th.

Rejoice Magazine – Nurture your soul through the quarterly devotional magazine, Rejoice!Each day’s entry features a Bible reading, a short inspirational message, and a prayer of response.
Salt & Light Guide – A quarterly Bible study for Sunday school classes and Bible study groups.
Please note that there is no cost to you for either of these publications.

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.

Wednesday June 10th – Our church has a day booked to 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.

VBS 2026 – July 6-10 Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God. Registration is open! Parents- please register your children and share the registration link found on our church website with friends and neighbours. Volunteers: please let us know your availability and what area you would like to help in. Email eastzorravbs@gmail.com with any questions.

Beyond Our Church Community

Wednesday May 20^th 1 p.m. Transforming Long-term Care for Well-being – Attend this discussion-based presentation at Conrad Grebel University College with architect Rudy P. Friesen, who will offer perspective from his career working with communities and organizations to transform long-term care through ethical design. All are welcome. Visit grebel.ca/events

Thursday May 21^st 7:30 p.m. Menno Singers and the Mennonite Mass Choir, conducted by Artistic Director Brandon Leis, presents Karl Jenkins’ The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace and Johannes Brahms’ Schicksalslied (Song of Destiny) at Centre in the Square (Kitchener) with Orchestra. Tickets available through Centre in the Square (https://centreinthesquare.com/event/)

New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale 2026 – Friday May 29 & Saturday May 30^th

This year, the New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale proudly celebrates 60 years of coming together in faith, generosity, and community. Since 1967, this annual tradition has raised more than $15 million for Mennonite Central Committee, bringing hope, relief, and opportunity to communities around the world.

Start collecting your loose change. Every year, spare change collected by churches, children and families across North America adds up to more than $600,000 for MCC’s work at home and around the world! Coins collected at the New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale are designated “where needed most” for the work of MCC, putting your change to work right away!
Saturday May 30^th Lace up for the Run for Relief. Register today for the Run for Relief – a 2k or 5k fun run at the fairgrounds. Raise funds for MCC, and enjoy a morning run along the Nith River before you take in the rest of the sale. Sign up today. Entry is free but fundraising is encouraged. Top fundraisers will win a prize, so get started today!
Saturday May 30^th If you have the gift of music and would like to share it with others for a good cause, we want to hear from you! The New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale is seeking musicians to enhance the ambience of the sale as patrons take in the atmosphere at this popular event. This opportunity is for 30-minute time slots between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 30. Please contact Lorieyantzi@outlook.com if you’re interested in this volunteer opportunity.

Tuesday June 9^th 5-7 p.m. Hidden Acres is hosting our 59th Annual Chicken BBQ & 18th Annual Pie Auction Fundraiser. Come and enjoy our delicious chicken dinner that thousands of people have come to know and love. Along with the chicken, your meal includes potato salad, coleslaw, veggies, pickles, a fresh roll, chips and an apple or fresh baked apple fritter.

$22 – 1 Piece Meal / $27 – 2 Piece Meal

Pie Auction will happen during the meal.

Please visit www.hiddenacres.ca for more details and to order your tickets.

Tickets need to be purchased in advance.

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.

Thrift Volunteers Needed! Do you have a heart for service and a few hours to spare each week? MCC Thrift & Gift in Elmira and the MCC New Hamburg Thrift Centre are seeking volunteers to greet donors, receive and sort donations, and perform other roles. Join a community rooted in service and love. Visit mccthrift.com/volunteer to get in touch with us today!

After the excitement of our 80th Anniversary Barn event last September, we are planning another one! This time, at the Tapestry Hall in Cambridge. Join us on Friday, September 25 for Rockway’s BIG Night Out. For more information and to get your Early Bird ticket, visit rockway.ca/events.

Bulletin – May 3, 2026

May 1, 2026 | Filed Under: Weekly Bulletins

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 69 Sunday May 3, 2026 No. 18

Prelude/Accompanist: Brandy Sell Song Leader: Connie Yantzi

Greeters: Janet & Marv Yantzi Worship Leader: Dawn Bender

Audio/Visual: Dathan Bender/Brian Wagler Coffeetime: Gloria & Merv Ropp

Prelude

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer

Song of Gathering & Praise VT #495 “Morning Has Broken”

VT #39 “As we Rise, O God, to Meet You”

Parent-Child Dedication

Amy & Nathan Yantzi – Luke

Congregation sings:

“Hosanna, Jesus loves Luke, yes he does, yes he does (3x)

And he wants Luke to love him too.”

Congregational Response: You have offered Luke to the strong and tender care of God. We rejoice with you and give thanks for the gift of your child. With God as our guide, we will share in your child’s nurture and well-being. We will support, by our example and words, your efforts to provide a loving and caring home, where trust in God grows and Christ may be known. Our prayers will be with you and for you.

May our shared life and witness help you grow as a family in faithfulness and joy.

(from Voices Together #970)

Offering – Mission Partners

Time with the Children

Scripture Reading: Genesis 50:15-21

Message In the Place of God Pastor Mike

Song of Response VT #84 “To God Be the Glory”

Prayer of the Church Pastor Ray

Sending Song VT #599 “We’ve Come This Far by Faith”

Benediction

Today

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

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

This Coming Week

Monday May 4^th

7 p.m. Walking Club – meet at the Mike Schout Wetlands Preserve, 28 Smith Creek’s Drive New Hamburg. This is a beautiful 1.6 km raised boardwalk trail that spans multiple wetland ponds. You can walk the loop as often as you want! Parking lot available off Smith Creek’s drive. More info here => Mike Schout Wetlands Preserve – Wilmot Township. Decisions to cancel due to inclement weather will be made on location.

Tuesday May 5^th

9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Sewing Circle
7:30 p.m. Mission Committee Meeting

Wednesday May 6^th

10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Coffee & Bible Study
Play Group setup
6:30 – 8 p.m. Authored by the Word

Thursday May 7^th

9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group
7:30 p.m. Men’s Bible Study meets in the MYF room.

Friday May 8^th

5:30 p.m. MYF meets at church to go to K2K Productions presentation of Freaky Friday. Tickets must be purchased in advance – see email sent for more info.

Next Sunday – May 10, 2026

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

The Way through the Wild: Exodus 13:17-22 (Pillar of Fire)

Prelude/Accompanist: Glorify Song Leader: Glorify

Greeters: Tracey & Larry Kropf Worship Leader:

Audio/Visual: Todd Bender/Larry Kropf Offering: MCEC & MC Canada

Coffeetime: Michelle & Brad Brenneman Message: Pastor Ray

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

EZMC Announcements

Thank you to all who participated in Pastor Mike’s mid-term review process. SCRC values the feedback you provided. The feedback will be summarized and shared as appropriate over the next couple months with Church Ministry Council, Pastor Mike, and the congregation. If you still have feedback to provide, please send to tracey.kropf@gmail.com by Friday May 8. Thank you!

It is soon time to renew our subscriptions to Rejoice Magazine and Salt & Light.

Rejoice Magazine – Nurture your soul through the quarterly devotional magazine, Rejoice!Each day’s entry features a Bible reading, a short inspirational message, and a prayer of response. The magazine also includes inspirational stories and poems, and daily prayer requests representing Mennonite mission workers, schools, and church agencies.
Salt & Light Guide – A quarterly Bible study for Sunday school classes and Bible study groups. This resource had been used by the Sunday School class that met in the boardroom. During the pandemic we have been providing these for those people who had been a part of that class to study. We would be happy to add you to the list.
Please note that there is no cost to you for either of these publications.

Donut Project

The New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale is on Saturday, May 30 and there are lots of volunteer opportunities! Consider supporting the donut project in one of the following ways:

– sharing plastic 500ml containers (will be reused then recycled) – box under mailboxes

– making mashed potatoes – details and sign up sheet on bulletin board

– mixing or kneading in the donut tent – sign up sheet on bulletin board

– post-sale clean up at church – sign up sheet on bulletin board

– set up at the donut tent (Friday morning) and/or tear down at the donut tent (Saturday afternoon) – contact Bill Roth kilbride@rogers.com

Any questions contact Greg and Dawn gdzehr@gmail.com

CPR course – The Health Ministry team is offering CPR certification (including AED training) with Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.

When: May 9^th (9 a.m. morning class or 1:30 p.m. afternoon class)

Where: EZMC basement

Cost: $50 cash or e-transfer (email for course leader will be provided day of).

Please reach out to Jill Rempel or Heidi Wagler if you are interested by May 1^st

Beyond Our Church Community

May 2^nd – 16^thRed Dress Day Art Exhibit and Call 30 at Conrad Grebel University College, 140 Westmount Road North, Waterloo. Red Dress Day, which is recognized on May 5, brings awareness to missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. In partnership with Conrad Grebel University College, MCC is featuring artwork that illustrates factors contributing to the criminalization and harm of Indigenous women. Visit the art exhibit between May 2 and 16. As part of this event, MCC is hosting two Call 30 activities, which will deepen your understanding of why Red Dress Day matters and why 50% of women in Ontario prisons are Indigenous.

Learn more: mcc.org/red-dress-day.

Interfaith Community Counselling will not host a virtual Silent Auction this June. Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) has named May 4 – May 10 as Canadian Mental Health Week. It’s a call to spark small, everyday actions of connection, and to recognize the role we all play in supporting mental. In response to CMHA’s call and with the ending of the silent auction, we are hosting 7 Days of Wellness, the calendar of events is on the main bulletin board or ICC’s website. Our desire is to bring people together, provide meaningful resources, and raise funds to subsidize counselling.

Poole People Player’s Presents “Sneaky Citizens of Saddlesore City”.

Their play will be presented on May 7, 8, 9 at the PERC in Milverton.

Evening performance at 7:30 p.m.; Sat. afternoon performance at 2 p.m.

For tickets call Janet at 519-595-8424 or 519-301-3717 or email poolemem@perth.net

Pow Wows 101
Tuesday, May 13 at 12:00 p.m. (Online and in person at 50 Kent Ave., Kitchener)
Wednesday, May 14 at 7:00 p.m. (Online)
MCC has two opportunities on the horizon to help you learn about the Indigenous celebration of pow wows. While everyone is welcome to celebrate and enjoy these powerful experiences, often non-Indigenous people feel shy or hesitant about attending for the first time. MCC’s Indigenous Neighbours team is holding two training sessions to help make this a little easier. Learn the basics of what to expect and how to participate, and then plan to attend with the team this summer. Attend May 12 in person in Kitchener or online, or May 13 online. Learn more here.

New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale 2026 – Friday May 29 & Saturday May 30^th

Start collecting your loose change. Every year, spare change collected by churches, children and families across North America adds up to more than $600,000 for MCC’s work at home and around the world! Coins collected at the New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale are designated “where needed most” for the work of MCC, putting your change to work right away!
Saturday May 30^th Lace up for the Run for Relief. Register today for the Run for Relief – a 2k or 5k fun run at the fairgrounds. Raise funds for MCC, and enjoy a morning run along the Nith River before you take in the rest of the sale. Sign up today. Entry is free but fundraising is encouraged. Top fundraisers will win a prize, so get started today!
Saturday May 30^th If you have the gift of music and would like to share it with others for a good cause, we want to hear from you! The New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale is seeking musicians to enhance the ambience of the sale as patrons take in the atmosphere at this popular event. This opportunity is for 30-minute time slots between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 30. Please contact Lorieyantzi@outlook.com if you’re interested in this volunteer opportunity.

$22 – 1 Piece Meal / $27 – 2 Piece Meal

Pie Auction will happen during the meal.

Please visit www.hiddenacres.ca for more details and to order your tickets.

Tickets need to be purchased in advance.

Saturday June 13^th 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Strawberry Thanksgiving and Communion atSix Nations Polytechnic, Ohsweken, ON. You’re warmly invited to Strawberry Thanksgiving and Communion. 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.

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.

Mennonite Central Committee – Join our 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.

Custodian – New Hamburg (Part-time)
Physical Resources Manager – Kitchener (Full-time)
Administrative Assistant – Kitchener (Part-time)

We also have several postings open for Canada Summer Jobs roles in Kitchener, Elmira, Leamington and New Hamburg.

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

Bulletin – April 26, 2026

April 24, 2026 | Filed Under: Weekly Bulletins

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 69 Sunday April 26, 2026 No. 17

Prelude/Accompanist: Heidi Wagler Song Leader: Myron Ruby

Greeters: Gloria & Merv Ropp Worship Leader: Bevin Witmer

Audio/Visual: Drystan Bender/Larry Kropf Coffeetime: Shirley & Phil Ruby

Prelude

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship

Opening Prayer

Song of Gathering & Praise

VT#39 “As We Rise, O God, to Meet You”

VT#100 “Praise Him, Praise Him”

Offering – Relief/MCC

Time with the Children

Scripture Readings: Genesis 12:1-9, 15:1-6; Hebrews 11:8-12

Message Pastor Ray

Song of Response

VT#566 “We Will Follow”

Prayer of the Church Pastor Ray

Sending Song

VT#849 “We, Your People, Sing Your Praises”

Benediction

Today

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

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

Pastor Mike’s mid-term review Focus groups will form immediately following the worship service for those interested in participating, with a quick break to grab coffee. A group will also be facilitated over zoom. Please see the announcement on page 5 for more details.

This Coming Week

Tuesday April 28^th

9 a.m. Care Team Meeting
7:30 – 8:30 p.m. Holy Movement – this week marks one year since we started Holy Movement! Do your fitness routines need some spring renewal? It’s not too late to join! Bring an exercise mat, water bottle, and light weights (there are a few extras at the church if you don’t have any).

Wednesday April 29^th

10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Coffee & Bible Study
Play Group setup
6:30 – 8 p.m. Authored by the Word

Thursday April 30^th

9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group

Saturday May 2^nd

4:30 – 5:30 p.m. Grace Lao Mennonite Church Egg Roll Pickup @ EZMC. Payment can be made at time of pickup by either cash or cheque or you can pay via e-transfer to dylanyantzi@gmail.com. Cost is $20 per box.

Next Sunday – May 3, 2026

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

The First Settlement: Genesis 45:1-15 (Joseph in Egypt)

Prelude/Accompanist: Brandy Sell Song Leader:

Greeters: Janet & Marv Yantzi Worship Leader:

Audio/Visual: Dathan Bender/Brian Wagler Offering: Mission Partners

Coffeetime: Gloria & Merv Ropp Message: Pastor Mike

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

Focus groups for Pastor Mike’s mid-term review will happen during adult Sunday School today. Reflection questions were distributed a few weeks ago via email and are included here again for easy reference (see attached). There are also print copies available on the table at the back of the sanctuary. SCRC would encourage you to spend time in reflecting on Pastor Mike’s ministry to date and bless him with the gift of feedback. Focus groups will form immediately following the worship service for those interested in participating, with a quick break to grab coffee. A group will also be facilitated over zoom. If this timing doesn’t work for you, please consider sending a written response to the questions to tracey.kropf@gmail.com. Questions on the review process can be directed to any member of the SCRC – Tracey Kropf, Megan McDonald, Bevin Witmer, Tyler Yantzi.

Donut Project

The New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale is on Saturday, May 30 and there are lots of volunteer opportunities! Consider supporting the donut project in one of the following ways:

– sharing plastic 500ml containers (will be reused then recycled) – box under mailboxes

– making mashed potatoes – details and sign up sheet on bulletin board

– mixing or kneading in the donut tent – sign up sheet on bulletin board

– post-sale clean up at church – sign up sheet on bulletin board

– set up at the donut tent (Friday morning) and/or tear down at the donut tent (Saturday afternoon) – contact Bill Roth kilbride@rogers.com

Any questions contact Greg and Dawn gdzehr@gmail.com

CPR course – The Health Ministry team is offering CPR certification (including AED training) with Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.

When: May 9^th (9 a.m. morning class or 1:30 p.m. afternoon class)

Where: EZMC basement

Cost: $50 cash or e-transfer (email for course leader will be provided day of).

Please reach out to Jill Rempel or Heidi Wagler if you are interested by May 1^st

Beyond Our Church Community

Sunday April 26^th 7-9 p.m., MCEC Intercultural Worship Gathering,

(First Mennonite/Shalom Worship & Healing Center 800 King St. E., Kitchener, ON).

All are welcome to this time of worship, unity and celebration as various congregations come together to honour our diversity in Christ.

Monday April 27^th 6 p.m. New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale Fundraising Dinner at Calvary United Church (48 Hawkesville Rd, St. Jacobs N0B 2N0). More than just a meal, the NHMRS fundraising dinner is your chance to connect with the community and support the relief sale and MCC! Enjoy a delicious buffet dinner catered by Gracie’s Country Oven and hear an update from MCC. Tickets are $30 each and children aged 3-10 are only $10! Donations will be gratefully accepted at the event in support of the relief sale. Purchase your ticket here.

Rockway Mennonite Collegiate will be hosting, and performing in, the Mennonite Schools Network Choral Festival (MSN formerly MSC) on Saturday, May 2, 3pm at The St. Matthews Centre. For more information, please visit rockway.ca/events. All are welcome.

Learn more: mcc.org/red-dress-day.

Poole People Player’s Presents “Sneaky Citizens of Saddlesore City”.

Their play will be presented on May 7, 8, 9 at the PERC in Milverton.

Evening performance at 7:30 p.m.; Sat. afternoon performance at 2 p.m.

For tickets call Janet at 519-595-8424 or 519-301-3717 or email poolemem@perth.net

New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale 2026 – Friday May 29 & Saturday May 30^th

Start collecting your loose change. Every year, spare change collected by churches, children and families across North America adds up to more than $600,000 for MCC’s work at home and around the world! Coins collected at the New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale are designated “where needed most” for the work of MCC, putting your change to work right away!
Saturday May 30^th Lace up for the Run for Relief. Register today for the Run for Relief – a 2k or 5k fun run at the fairgrounds. Raise funds for MCC, and enjoy a morning run along the Nith River before you take in the rest of the sale. Sign up today. Entry is free but fundraising is encouraged. Top fundraisers will win a prize, so get started today!
Saturday May 30^th If you have the gift of music and would like to share it with others for a good cause, we want to hear from you! The New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale is seeking musicians to enhance the ambience of the sale as patrons take in the atmosphere at this popular event. This opportunity is for 30-minute time slots between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 30. Please contact Lorieyantzi@outlook.com if you’re interested in this volunteer opportunity.

Tri-County Mennonite Homes is looking for members of our 15 supporting congregations to serve on our Board of Directors commencing at our annual meeting in June. If you are interested or have someone to recommend, please contact Bruce Bechtel for more information. 519-801-0470 BBechtel@tcmhomes.com.

Hidden Acres Mennonite Camp and Retreat Centre is currently seeking to hire a year-round Housekeeping Coordinator (20-25 hours/week) and Housekeeping Staff (10-15 hours/week) to begin as soon as possible. Job descriptions for both positions are available on our website at www.hiddenacres.ca. To apply, please forward your resume to brent@hiddenacres.ca.

Love Music? Lead the scene at Grebel! Conrad Grebel University Collegeis looking for a Music Ensemble & Concert Coordinator to bring our musical season to life! Applications due April 26, 2026. Visit uwaterloo.ca/grebel/contact-us/careers for more information.

It’s time to register for Ontario Mennonite Music Camp (OMMC) | August 10-22, 2025. OMMC is a place where youth develop and enrich relationships, faith, musicality, and leadership in a fun and supportive summer camp e

Bulletin – April 19, 2026

April 17, 2026 | Filed Under: Weekly Bulletins

A reminder that tomorrow, Saturday April 18^th from 4-6 p.m., The Congregational Life Committee invites you to a skating party at the Tavistock Recreation Centre. We have the ice and upper hall rented. This event is for all! Whether you like to skate or prefer to watch while playing games and visiting in the upper hall, everyone is welcome! Bring your families, friends, and neighbours, and a finger-food snack to share. Drinks will be provided. Hope to see you there!

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 69 Sunday April 19, 2026 No. 16

Prelude/Accompanist: Bethany Zehr Song Leader: Susan Schmitz

Greeters: Jess & Tyler Yantzi Worship Leader: Caleb Leis

Audio/Visual: Greg Pye/Brian Wagler Coffeetime: Gloria & Tom Roth

Prelude

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship

Opening Prayer

Song of Gathering & Praise

VT#10 “Here in This Place”

VT#124 “For the Fruit of All Creation”

Offering – Leadership

Time with the Children Pastor Mike

Scripture Readings: Genesis 4:1-16

Message The Brothers Keeper Pastor Mike

Song of Response

VT #705 “For the Healing of the Nations”

Prayer of the Church Pastor Ray

Sending Song

VT #43 “God, Be the Love”

Benediction

Postlude

Today

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

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

This Coming Week

Monday April 20^th

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

Tuesday April 21^st

1:30 – 3:30 p.m. Prayer Shawl Ministry at Jean MacDonald’s

Wednesday April 22^nd

10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Coffee & Bible Study
Play Group setup
6:30 – 8 p.m. Authored by the Word

Thursday April 23^rd

9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group
6 p.m. Big Read

Friday April 24^th

7 – 9 p.m. JWalkers (Jr Youth Gr 6-8) Girls Night/Guys Night. Please drop off and pickup at the following locations. Guys at Tyler’s shack bush (corner of 15^th Line & Maplewood Sideroad). Girls at Erin & Toby Schlegel’s (2100 Line 37 New Hamburg). Parents, please refer to the email for more details about this event.
7 p.m. MYF invites everyone to church for a Crokinole Party & Games Night. Please bring crokinole boards, and card games. Drinks will be provided, but snacks to share would be appreciated.

Next Sunday – April 26, 2026

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

The First Pilgrim: Genesis 12:1-9, 15:1-6 (Abram)

Prelude/Accompanist: Heidi Wagler Song Leader: Myron Ruby

Greeters: Gloria & Merv Ropp Worship Leader: Bevin Witmer

Audio/Visual: Drystan Bender/Larry Kropf Offering: Relief/MCC

Coffeetime: Shirley & Phil Ruby Message: Pastor Ray

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

EZMC Announcements

Faith Formation Classes

Are you considering baptism, or are you simply curious about the foundations of the Christian faith? We invite you to join our upcoming Faith Formation classes. This is a welcoming space to ask big questions, explore belief, and discover what it means to follow Jesus in today’s world.

When: Sunday mornings, 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM in the MYF Room
Start Date: Sunday, April 19
Who: Anyone seeking baptism, new believers, or the spiritually curious.

Whether you are ready to take the next step in your faith or are just looking for a place to start the conversation, there is a seat for you at the table.

CPR course – The Health Ministry team is offering CPR certification (including AED training) with Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.

When: May 2nd (morning or afternoon class)

Where: EZMC basement

Cost: $50 cash or e-transfer (email for course leader will be provided day of)

Please reach out to Jill Rempel or Heidi Wagler if you are interested by April 20^th

Grace Lao Mennonite Church Egg Roll Sale – Please place your order on the sign-up sheet on the main bulletin board or by emailing Lisa at office@ezmennonite.ca.

Price is $20 for a box of 10 egg rolls. Vegetarian rolls are also available. Please indicate on your order if you want meat or vegetarian rolls. Orders are due by Tuesday April 21^st and will be available for pickup at church on Saturday May 2^nd. Payment is due at the time of pickup.

Given Pastor Mike is now 3.5 years into his ministry at East Zorra, SCRC plans to facilitate a mid-term review. We will be having a focused review with a small subset of the congregation that interacts most closely with Mike, and also welcome congregational input for those interested. Reflection questions for your consideration were distributed separately via email and there are also a few copies available at the back of the sanctuary. If you would like to provide input into Pastor Mike’s review, SCRC invites your response via participation in focus group discussions during Sunday School on Sunday April 26, and/or by submitting written response to Tracey Kropf (tracey.kropf@gmail.com or printed copy – found on table in sanctuary lobby).

The review questions focus on Mike’s strengths, gifts and significant contributions to our ministry at East Zorra, as well as areas of growth and how the congregation can support Pastor Mike in his development.

Feedback is a gift! It is SCRC’s hope that this review will motivate and inspire Mike to continue to use his strengths and gifts to grow in his ministry and further strengthen the relationship between Mike and the congregation as together we seek to carry out our vision and mission. SCRC would encourage you to spend time in reflecting on Pastor Mike’s ministry to date and to bless him with the gift of feedback via participation at the end of April in the process / questions noted above. Questions on the review process in the meantime can be directed to any member of SCRC – Tracey Kropf, Megan McDonald, Bevin Witmer, Tyler Yantzi.

Sunday April 26^th Noon at Tavistock Mennonite Church. Syrian Fundraising Meal. Prepared by the Al Younes family and featuring the finest of Syrian dishes, this meal is to raise funds for Tavistock’s refugee sponsorship. Receipts provided for donations above $20.00 per meal. Bring your family and invite a friend!

RSVP by April 19 to louisecb3@hotmail.com.

Thursday April 30^th from 4-8 p.m. East Zorra is scheduled to prepare and serve a meal to approximately 225 people experiencing poverty and homelessness in downtown Kitchener at Ray of Hope. The missions committee is looking for 10-12 volunteers. If you’re willing to volunteer or have any questions please speak to Dylan Yantzi or another member of the missions committee.

Beyond Our Church Community

The April edition of On the Level is now available from Mennonite Disaster Service.

In this edition, you’ll read about Gord and Marianne Siemens from Saskatoon who have caught the “MDS bug.” The “bug” has taken them across Canada, from B.C. to Nova Scotia, and to places like Texas and Florida, since 2018. “The first time was just to see what MDS was like,” said Marianne. After that, they just kept volunteering. Read On the Level: https://conta.cc/3OJAsJS

Saturday April 25^th MCEC Annual Church Gathering at Steinmann Mennonite Church, Baden, ON. A one-day ACG designed to energize congregations in worship, discipleship and mission. Explore practical workshops, engage in meaningful conversations and discern God’s guidance together for our shared future.

Sunday April 26^th 7-9 p.m., MCEC Intercultural Worship Gathering,

(First Mennonite/Shalom Worship & Healing Center 800 King St. E., Kitchener, ON).

All are welcome to this time of worship, unity and celebration as various congregations come together to honour our diversity in Christ.

Looking at the Sky | Grebel Gallery Exhibit, April 4-29, 2026. Waterloo artist Nina Bailey-Dick’s powerful batiks and collages are a feminist declaration of love for the land, sky, and self; an invitation to embrace both the beautiful and the broken parts of ourselves. uwaterloo.ca/centre-peace-advancement/events/

Learn more: mcc.org/red-dress-day.

Interfaith Community Counselling will not host a virtual Silent Auction this June. Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) has named May 4 – May 10 as Canadian Mental Health Week. CMHA is inviting people across Canada to Come Together. It’s a call to spark small, everyday actions of connection, and to recognize the role we all play in supporting mental. In response to CMHA’s call and with the ending of the silent auction, we are hosting 7 Days of Wellness, the calendar of events is on the main bulletin board or ICC’s website. Our desire is to bring people together, provide meaningful resources, and raise funds to subsidize counselling.

Poole People Player’s Presents “Sneaky Citizens of Saddlesore City”.

Their play will be presented on May 7, 8, 9 at the PERC in Milverton.

Evening performance at 7:30 p.m.; Sat. afternoon performance at 2 p.m.

For tickets call Janet at 519-595-8424 or 519-301-3717 or email poolemem@perth.net

New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale 2026

Start collecting your loose change. Every year, spare change collected by churches, children and families across North America adds up to more than $600,000 for MCC’s work at home and around the world! Coins collected at the New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale are designated “where needed most” for the work of MCC, putting your change to work right away!
Saturday May 30^th Lace up for the Run for Relief. Register today for the Run for Relief – a 2k or 5k fun run at the fairgrounds. Raise funds for MCC, and enjoy a morning run along the Nith River before you take in the rest of the sale. Sign up today. Entry is free but fundraising is encouraged. Top fundraisers will win a prize, so get started today!
Saturday May 30^th If you have the gift of music and would like to share it with others for a good cause, we want to hear from you! The New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale is seeking musicians to enhance the ambience of the sale as patrons take in the atmosphere at this popular event. This opportunity is for 30-minute time slots between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 30. Please contact Lorieyantzi@outlook.com if you’re interested in this volunteer opportunity.

Easter Sunday Bulletin – April 5, 2026

April 4, 2026 | Filed Under: Weekly Bulletins

Easter Sunday

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 69 Sunday April 5, 2026 No. 14

Sunday April 5, 2026 – Join Sunday Worship Zoom at 10 a.m.

Prelude/Accompanist: Glorify Song Leader: Glorify

Greeters: Ashley & Jon Witzel Worship Leader: Pastor Mike

Audio/Visual: Dathan Bender/Brian Wagler Offering: Mission Partners

Prelude

How Deep the Father’s Love for Us

King of Kings

Christ Is Risen

O Praise the Name (Anastasis)

Welcome & Passing of the Peace

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer

Song of Gathering & Praise

HWB 346 Christ the Lord is Risen Today

⁠ HWB 333 Low in the Grave He Lay

Offering – Mission Partners

Offertory – Amazing Love

Time with the Children Pastor Mike

Special Music (Men’s Group) Larry Bearinger, Gord Bender, Caleb Leis, Brian Wagler, Merv Ropp. Howard Ropp, Rick Roes, Galen Leis, Myron Ruby.

Would you be free

A wonderful savior is Jesus

I will singthe wondrous story

Scripture Reading: Matthew 28:1-10

Message Pastor Ray

Song of Response: HWB 332 In Christ Alone

Prayer of the Church Pastor Mike

Sending Song: Death was Arrested

Benediction

This Coming Week

Monday April 6^th

7 p.m. Walking Club

Wednesday April 8^th

10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Coffee & Bible Study
Play Group setup
6:30 – 8 p.m. Authored by the Word

Thursday April 9^th

9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group
12 p.m. High Noon Seniors Lunch at Grace United Church in Tavistock. Our guest speaker will be from Interfaith Community Counselling.
7:30 p.m. Men’s Bible Study will meet in the MYF room.

Friday April 10^th

6 – 10 p.m. IF Gathering
7 p.m. MYF

Next Sunday – April 12, 2026

Aging and the Church

Prelude/Accompanist: Katie Wagler Song Leader: Lindsay Zehr

Greeters: Karen & Larry Bearinger Worship Leader: Sheryl Leis

Audio/Visual: Todd Bender/Larry Kropf Offering: MCEC & MC Canada

Coffeetime: Kristen & Daryl Cressman Message: Jim Brown

A Parent/Child Dedication for Brett & Chelsea Sider and Jack will take place during the worship service.

EZMC Announcements

It is soon time for new Coffee Hosts and Greeters schedules

Coffee Time Hosts – A coffee host prepares the coffee and cleans up after.

Greeters – As a greeter (individual, couple, or family) you would stand at the top of the stairs outside the Nursery and greet people as they arrive Sunday morning. We would encourage you to be here by 9:30 am or shortly after when you serve in this role.

If you are interested in being added to the Coffee Time Host or Greeter list please contact Lisa, our Office Administrator, by Tuesday April 7^th. If you are presently a Coffee Host of Greeter you will be included on the next schedule. If you would like to be removed from either list please let Lisa know.

Authored by the Word: A 5-Week Journey into the Heart of the Bible & Faithfulness

Do you ever feel like the Bible is treated more like a dry rulebook than a living encounter with God? Join us for a transformative five-week course exploring the Bible and some of the pressing issues of our day. The course will move beyond “winning arguments” to learning how the Bible “authors” us into a community of radical love, holiness, and hope.

Together, we will tackle some of the most pressing questions of our time:

How do we hear God’s voice in a noisy world?
What does “Cross-shaped” morality look like in the face of suffering?
How should the church respond to the issues of our day?
How is truth “proven” by the church’s witness in the world?

When: Wednesdays 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. April 8, 15, 22, 29, May 6

What to bring: An open heart and a curious mind.

If you would like to participate in this learning group, please contact Pastor Mike at mike@ezmennonite.ca to register. Please register by Tuesday April 7.

IF: One Night Event

When: April 10 | 6:00–10:00 PM

Where: East Zorra Church

Join us for an evening of fellowship, worship, prayer, and biblical teaching as we gather with women around the world for IF’s One Night event. We’ll watch engaging speakers online and spend time encouraging one another in faith.

Who: Women of all ages. Invite a friend and sign up on the bulletin board in the church foyer. Please sign up by Sunday April 5^th.

A light supper will be served at 6:00 PM. Cash donations are appreciated.

Theme: For Such a Time

This season feels urgent—in the best way. Not rushed, but appointed.

God is moving in our world, and He’s inviting us to wake up to what He’s doing. To remember we’re part of something bigger than ourselves. To gather, pause, and step forward with purpose.

Romans 13:11–12 (NLT)

“This is all the more urgent, for you know how late it is; time is running out. Wake up, for our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here. So, remove your dark deeds like dirty clothes, and put on the shining armor of right living.”

Please contact Erin, Ashley, Heidi, Sheryl, or Jess with any questions.

Hidden Acres Mennonite Camp’s 42nd Annual Bowlathon is happening again this year on April 11th! This is one of the camp’s main annual fundraising events with last year’s Bowlathon raising over $31,000! For any cash or cheque donations, please send them to Caleb Leis. If you are wanting to donate online, please use the following link at hiddenacres.ca/donate and select “Annual Bowlathon” from the list. Thank you!”

Faith Formation Classes

When: Sunday mornings, 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM in the MYF Room
Start Date: Sunday, April 19
Who: Anyone seeking baptism, new believers, or the spiritually curious.

Whether you are ready to take the next step in your faith or are just looking for a place to start the conversation, there is a seat for you at the table.

Skating Party – Saturday April 18 4 – 6 pm! The Congregational Life Committee invites you to a skating party at the Tavistock Recreation Centre. We have the ice and upper hall rented. This event is for all! Whether you like to skate or prefer to watch while playing games and visiting in the upper hall, everyone is welcome! Bring your families, friends, and neighbours, and a finger-food snack to share. Drinks will be provided. Hope to see you there!

Mid-term Review for Pastor Mike

Given Pastor Mike is now 3.5 years into his ministry at East Zorra, SCRC plans to facilitate a mid-term review. As part of that, we welcome congregational input for those interested. Questions for your reflection will be distributed via email the week after Easter (hardcopies will also be available at church), and we invite your response via 1) focus group discussion during Sunday School on Sunday April 26 and/or 2) written response to SCRC.

The review questions will focus on Mike’s strengths, gifts and significant contributions to our ministry at East Zorra, as well as areas of growth and how the congregation can support Pastor Mike in his development.

CPR course – The Health Ministry team is offering CPR certification (including AED training) with Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.

When: May 2nd (morning or afternoon class)

Where: EZMC basement

Cost: $50 cash or e-transfer (email for course leader will be provided day of)

Please reach out to Jill Rempel or Heidi Wagler if you are interested by April 20^th

Grace Lao Mennonite Church Egg Roll Sale – Please place your order on the sign-up sheet on the main bulletin board or by emailing Lisa at office@ezmennonite.ca.

Beyond Our Church Community

Do you have a child in grades 6 – 11? Are you looking for a new school experience? Join us on Tuesday April 14^th at 7 pm and discover why Rockway Mennonite Collegiate may be the right fit for your family. Register today at rockway.ca/events.

Monday April 20^th Seniors Retreat at Hidden Acres

Seniors (55+) are invited to spend the day at Hidden Acres. Our theme is Consider the Birds: Practicing Hope In A Worrisome World. Cost is $55 and includes lunch. For more information or to register go to hiddenacres.ca/programs/seniors-retreat

Sunday April 26^th 7-9 p.m., MCEC Intercultural Worship Gathering,

(First Mennonite/Shalom Worship & Healing Center 800 King St. E., Kitchener, ON).

All are welcome to this time of worship, unity and celebration as various congregations come together to honour our diversity in Christ. Mark your calendars.

Monday April 27^th 6 p.m. New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale Fundraising Dinner

at Calvary United Church (48 Hawkesville Rd, St. Jacobs N0B 2N0)
More than just a meal, the NHMRS fundraising dinner is your chance to connect with the community and support the relief sale and MCC! Enjoy a delicious buffet dinner catered by Gracie’s Country Oven and hear an update from MCC. Tickets are $30 each and children aged 3-10 are only $10! Donations will be gratefully accepted at the event in support of the relief sale. Purchase your ticket here.

Poole People Player’s Presents “Sneaky Citizens of Saddlesore City”.

Their play will be presented on May 7, 8, 9 at the PERC in Milverton.

Evening performance at 7:30 p.m.; Sat. afternoon performance at 2 p.m.

For tickets call Janet at 519-595-8424 or 519-301-3717 or email poolemem@perth.net

Calling all musicians!
Saturday May 30^th – New Hamburg Fairgrounds
If you have the gift of music and would like to share it with others for a good cause, we want to hear from you! The New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale is seeking musicians to enhance the ambience of the sale as patrons take in the atmosphere at this popular event. This opportunity is for 30-minute time slots between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 30. Please contact Lorieyantzi@outlook.com if you’re interested in this volunteer opportunity.

The March edition of On the Level is now available from Mennonite Disaster Service.

In this edition, you’ll read about Former Executive Director Ross Penner’s retirement. “Our volunteers are our gold,” he said. “They are our most valuable asset. Our mission would be impossible without them. It’s been a joy to be part of such an incredible team.” You’ll also find a story about students from Canadian Mennonite University who took time during their reading week to serve with MDS in Elk, Washington.

Read On the Level: https://conta.cc/4cPDc2a