Weekly Announcements

Prelude/Accompanist: Heidi Wagler               Song Leader: Myron Ruby

Greeters: Megan & Shane Klassen                   Worship Leader: Tracey Kropf

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

Coffee: Brett Zehr & Ryan Wagler                   Sharing by Shane Klassen

 Prelude  

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer

Songs of Praise       

VT #180 This is God’s Wondrous World

VT #435 Blessed Assurance

Offering – Leadership

Time with the Children         

Sharing by Shane Klassen

Song of Response    

VT #761 I Love to Tell the Story

Prayer of the Church

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.

This Sunday, August 24th, Alexis Leis and Naomi Ropp are hosting a worship night! All are invited to come to the church to enjoy worship, followed by fellowship. Worship will start at 7pm followed by refreshments and cookies in the basement. Bring your friends and family and we would love to see you there!

This Coming Week

Monday August 25th

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

Tuesday August 26th

·         7 p.m. U30 Potluck and Boardgame night at EZMC. Bring your favourite boardgame and snack to share for this fun filled evening of friendly competition and delicious food. This event is for anyone 18-30. Bring your friends too! If you have any questions, feel free to contact Alexis Leis 226-581-5661 or Dathan Bender 226-791-2191.

     7 p.m. Worship Committee Meets

Wednesday August 27th

·      6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Community Campfire at EZMC. Everyone of all ages is invited to bring a lawn chair, a snack, and a refreshment to drink and join us this Summer in our Green Space around the campfire for a time of fellowship, conversation, and fun. There will be no set agenda and children will be free to use the equipment and play. We look forward to enjoying each other’s company.

Next Sunday – August 31, 2025 10 a.m. Shared Worship Service hosted at Cassel Mennonite Church. There is no service at EZMC that morning.

EZMC Announcements

Wednesday September 3rd Adult Fellowship Grand River Boat Cruise in Caledonia. We will meet at the church @ 8:30 am to carpool. Cost is $80.00 per person, dinner and show included. See bulletin board for your food choice and indicate any food intolerances. Also indicate a w/c or walker for seating. Please sign up by Sunday August 17. Payment can be made to committee members; Ray and Laurel Zehr, Owen and Carol Cook, Mike and Karen Wirth.

Please note the following offering designation change for September 14th.   September 14th was originally designated towards our Refugee Fund. However, at this point, our financial commitments to the refugee families we have supported over the past few years, have been fulfilled. As there are currently no additional commitments for refugee families, we have decided not to designate offerings towards this fund at the present time. We have changed the September 14th offering designation to ‘Where Needed Most’. Thank you for your generous support towards the refugee families. 

Tavistock Fall Fair Parade  East Zorra is participating in the Tavistock Fall Fair Parade again! The theme this year is “Seed to Harvest” and the parade will take place on Saturday, September 6th at 11am. If you are interested in getting involved, here are some needs listed below:

·         Members interested in planning and decorating the float (8.5′ x 20′ wood wagon)

·         A tractor and driver to pull the float

·         A shed or shop space to store and decorate the parade float the week leading up to September 6th

·         Attendees! We would love to have members of all ages participate in the parade float. Time commitment would be from 10am-12pm, Saturday, September 6th.

If you are interested in helping with any of the above, there is a sign-up sheet on the bulletin board at the church or feel free to reach out to Amy Yantzi at 519-301-9707 or Duane Swartzentruber at 519-535-3466.

We thank God for our youth and look forward to continuing to provide fun and faith formative youth group experiences. To make this happen we need your prayers and your support. We are looking for a group of adults who are willing to serve as youth sponsors for approximately 2 events a month. We also need adults who are willing to support youth ministry by occasionally hosting an event or joining the youth and their sponsors at an event. 

Please prayerfully consider how God may be nudging you to share in this important ministry. If you would be willing to serve in some way please reach out to one of our Gift Discernment Committee members: Kim Leis, Jon Witzel or Kristen Cressman.

Greeters – As a greeter (individual, couple, or family) you would stand at the top of the stairs outside the parent’s room and greet people as they arrive Sunday morning. We would encourage you to be here by 9:30 or shortly after when you serve in this role. Would you or your family be willing to serve as a greeter and be scheduled in for a few Sunday mornings through the year? Contact Lisa Suderman, our Office Administrator, by Tuesday September 9th if you are not on the list and would be willing to help with this ministry.

Coffee Time Hosts – If you would like to add your name to the list of coffee volunteers, please contact Lisa in the office by Tuesday September 9th. A coffee host prepares the coffee and cleans up after.   

Beyond Our Church Community

Join us on September 13th & 14th as we put together an 80th Anniversary Celebration weekend for Rockway Mennonite Collegiate. Whether you are a former student or parent, family member or friend of someone who went to Rockway, ALL are welcome. Visit rockway.ca/events to learn more about the Family Festival (free entry) and Food Market Fundraiser (ticketed entry) at J. Steckle Heritage Farm on the 13th, and the Open House and Hymn Sing (free) at Rockway on the 14th. RSVP required for some events. 

September 12th – 14th Silver Lake Mennonite Camp Men’s Retreat Registration is open for the fall Men’s Retreat. Join us for a time of rest, amazing food and connection. David Lobe is returning as chef/sommelier with a mouthwatering menu already planned! Pastor Thomas Reimer and Mike Schmidt will lead some thought-provoking reflections. Take part in your choice of camp activities… sauna, basketball, fishing, sailing, canoeing and campfires! Special discount for those under 30 or underemployed. Click here for more details… slmc.ca/retreats

Saturday September 20th 10,000 Steps for Mental Health. Shalom Counselling Services (9 Avondale Ave. S., Waterloo). 9 a.m. Registration 9 a.m. Walk begins at 9:30 a.m. Join us for our 10th annual walk in support of accessible mental health care in Waterloo Region. The route travels from Shalom to the Iron Horse Trail and back, followed by a community barbecue to celebrate a decade of steps toward healing. Whether your goal is 10,000 steps or 1,000, raising $10,000 or $100—every step and every dollar counts. Sign up or donate at: shalomcounselling.org/steps

Saturday September 20, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Doors Open Waterloo Region: MCC Hub., 65 Heritage Dr., New Hamburg. The MCC Hub is a participating site of Doors Open Waterloo Region. Tour the home to MCC’s material resources and thrift processing, including the innovative new meat cannery; explore behind-the-scenes operations and pack a relief kit for someone affected by conflict or disaster. See how we meet urgent needs and make a global impact — one can, one kit at a time. There’s fun for the whole family with a bouncy castle and face painting, too. Learn more here.

Community-powered Decolonization with Sarah Augustine and Friends
October 1 at 7 p.m., Shantz Mennonite Church, 2473 Erbs Rd, Baden
October 2 at 7 p.m., Conrad Grebel University College, 140 Westmount Rd N, Waterloo
You’re invited to join author and notable speaker Sarah Augustine, together with Adrian Jacobs and Mennonite Action, for two evenings of conversation about Indigenous justice and decolonization. These events are free but require registration. Learn more and register here  Capacity is limited.

Mennonite Central Committee is hiring – 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.

·         Material Resources Associate (Full time) in New Hamburg

·         Associate – Home Pick-Up (Part time) in Waterloo Region

·         Donor Engagement Associate (Full time) in Kitchener

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

MCC Ontario Peace Conference
Saturday November 1, 2025 at Rockway Mennonite Collegiate in Kitchener
The MCC Peace Conference is your chance to learn the art of everyday peace and experience first-hand how you and MCC are changing lives and communities through peacebuilding. This event will inspire and inform through general sessions and conversations with messengers of peace. Save the date (November 1) and stay tuned for more details!

Contact Information

Pastor Ray Martin                                   ray@ezmennonite.ca                 519-501-7831

Pastor Mike Williamson                          mike@ezmennonite.ca                519-890-4291

Faith Community Nurse Heidi Wagler     heidi@ezmennonite.ca                519-274-4822

Office Administrator Lisa Suderman        office@ezmennonite.ca              519-655-6824

Treasurer Becky Bender                         treasurer@ezmennonite.ca

Pastoral Intern Alexis Leis                             alexisezmennonite@gmail.com

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 68          Sunday August 3, 2025                      No. 31

10 a.m. Shared Worship Service with EZMC, Cassel and Tavistock, will be hosted at Tavistock Mennonite Church (131 Wettlaufer Street, Tavistock).

A livestream will be available on TMC’s website. EZMC Offering Designation is Mission Partners.

This Coming Week

Tuesday August 5^th 

• 7:30 pm – Holy Movement Stretch and Strength – the third in our summer series! Bring an exercise mat, water bottle, and light weights if you desire to incorporate. New participants welcome!   

Next Sunday – August 10, 2025

10:30 a.m. Tavistock and Area Ecumenical Worship Service in Queen’s Park. Please note that the offering collected at this service will be going to Tavistock Assistance Program. EZMC’s designated offering for Leadership will not be collected at the park. For those who usually give by cash or cheque you are encouraged to bring it on Sunday August 17^th.

EZMC Announcements

The Tavistock and Area Ministerial is excited about our Ecumenical Service in the Park being planned for Sunday August 10 at 10:30 AM. We are looking for a team of musicians and singers to help lead music at this service. If you would be willing to join this team please speak to Heidi Wagler this week. Thanks so much!

Community Campfires at East Zorra Mennonite   

6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Green Space on August 13 and 27

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

On August 24th Alexis Leis and Naomi Ropp will be hosting a worship night! All are invited to come to the church to enjoy worship, followed by fellowship. Worship will go from approximately 7-8 and then you are invited to enjoy some snacks in the basement after. 

An invitation goes out to anyone who would be interested in being a part of the band! We need a pianist to play chords, a guitarist, a drummer and some singers!

If interested in being a part of the band you can contact Alexis at alexisezmennonite@gmail.com or 226-581-5661

Upcoming Summer Service (not at EZMC)

Sunday August 31 – 10 a.m. Shared Worship Service hosted at Cassel Mennonite Church.

We thank God for our youth and look forward to continuing to provide fun and faith formative youth group experiences. To make this happen we need your prayers and your support. We are looking for a group of adults who are willing to serve as youth sponsors for approximately 2 events a month. We also need adults who are willing to support youth ministry by occasionally hosting an event or joining the youth and their sponsors at an event. 

Please prayerfully consider how God may be nudging you to share in this important ministry. If you would be willing to serve in some way please reach out to one of our Gift Discernment Committee members: Kim Leis, Jon Witzel or Kristen Cressman.

Adult Fellowship Grand River Boat Cruise in Caledonia on Wednesday September 3 2025. We will meet at the church @ 8:30 am to carpool. Cost is $80.00 per person, dinner and show included. See bulletin board for your food choice and indicate any food intolerances. Also indicate a w/c or walker for seating. Please sign up by Sunday August 17. Payment can be made to committee members; Ray and Laurel Zehr, Owen and Carol Cook, Mike and Karen Wirth.

All items for the Sunday August 17^th bulletin are due to the church office by Thursday August 14^th at 9 a.m. Thanks so much.

Greeters – As a greeter (individual, couple, or family) you would stand at the top of the stairs outside the parent’s room and greet people as they arrive Sunday morning. We would encourage you to be here by 9:30 or shortly after when you serve in this role. Would you or your family be willing to serve as a greeter and be scheduled in for a few Sunday mornings through the year? Contact Lisa Suderman, our Office Administrator, by Tuesday September 9^th if you are not on the list and would be willing to help with this ministry.

Beyond our Church Community

MennoCreative Residencies: Canadian Mennonite offers flexible 6-18-month, part-time or full-time residencies for people passionate about journalism, photojournalism, documentary film, podcast and/or graphic design. Apply by August 15. See canadianmennonite.org/mennocreative.

Fall volunteer opportunity with MDS in Barrington, Nova Scotia! MDS is building a house for a wildfire survivor in this community. If you are interested and available to serve in September or October, contact the MDS Canada office at mdscanada@mds.org or 1(866) 261-1274 for more information.

80th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Rockway invites everyone to join in the fun this September 13 & 14! Whether you buy tickets for our Food Market Fundraiser, or join in on one of the other FREE events (including a Hymn Sing!), go to rockway.ca/events to learn more about how we’re celebrating 80 years of Rockway.

September 12^th – 14^th Silver Lake Mennonite Camp Men’s Retreat Registration is open for the fall Men’s Retreat. Join us for a time of rest, amazing food and connection. David Lobe is returning as chef/sommelier with a mouthwatering menu already planned! Pastor Thomas Reimer and Mike Schmidt will lead some thought-provoking reflections. Take part in your choice of camp activities… sauna, basketball, fishing, sailing, canoeing and campfires! Special discount for those under 30 or underemployed. Click here for more details… slmc.ca/retreats

Saturday September 20^th 10,000 Steps for Mental Health. Shalom Counselling Services (9 Avondale Ave. S., Waterloo). 9 a.m. Registration 9 a.m. Walk begins at 9:30 a.m. Join us for our 10th annual walk in support of accessible mental health care in Waterloo Region. The route travels from Shalom to the Iron Horse Trail and back, followed by a community barbecue to celebrate a decade of steps toward healing. Whether your goal is 10,000 steps or 1,000, raising $10,000 or $100—every step and every dollar counts. Sign up or donate at: shalomcounselling.org/steps

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 68          Sunday July 27, 2025                      No. 30

Sunday July 27, 2025

Join Sunday Worship Zoom at 10 a.m.

Prelude/Accompanist: Katie Wagler               Song Leader: Caleb Leis

Greeters: Tracey & Larry Kropf                       Worship Leader: Sheryl Leis

Audio/Visual: Todd Bender/Brian Wagler        Coffee: Gloria & Merv Ropp               

Prelude          

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer

Songs of Praise           VT #10 “Here in this Place”

VT #43 “God, be the Love”

Offering – Relief/Mennonite Central Committee

Time with the Children                     

Scripture Reading: Romans 12:1-21

Sharing by Megan MacDonald

Megan will share reflections from her involvement at Mennonite Church Canada Gathering as an East Zorra Representative.

Song of Response       VT #409 “For We Are Strangers No More”

Prayer of the Church – Pastor Ray     

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.

2-4 p.m. The family of Jim and Carol Schumm invite you to an open houseat East Zorra Mennonite Church in celebration of their 60th wedding anniversary. Best wishes only please.

This Coming Week

Monday July 28^th

• 7 p.m. Walking Club – nature walk at the Hickson trail. This is mostly a flat, grass covered trail through woodland at the Hickson access point. It’s an out and back trail so come walk as far as you’d like! Meet at Hickson Park located at 99 Lovey’s Street. Decisions to cancel due to inclement weather will be made on location. 

Wednesday July 30^th

• 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Summer Campfire with Ice Cream treats provided by Congregational Life Committee. Please see announcement for more info.

Next Sunday – August 3, 2025

10 a.m. Shared Worship Service with EZMC, Cassel and Tavistock, will be hosted at Tavistock Mennonite Church (131 Wettlaufer Street, Tavistock). A livestream will be available on TMC’s website. EZMC Offering Designation is Mission Partners.

EZMC Announcements

The Tavistock and Area Ministerial is excited about our Ecumenical Service in the Park being planned for Sunday August 10 at 10:30 AM. We are looking for a team of musicians and singers to help lead music at this service. If you would be willing to join this team please speak to Pastor Ray this week. Thanks so much!

Upcoming Summer Services (not at EZMC)

Sunday August 10 – 10:30 a.m. Tavistock and Area Ecumenical Worship Service in Queen’s Park. Please note that the offering collected at this service will be going to Tavistock Assistance Program. EZMC’s designated offering for Leadership will not be collected at the park. For those who usually give by cash or cheque you are encouraged to bring it on Sunday July 27^th or Sunday August 17^th.

Sunday August 31 – 10 a.m. Shared Worship Service hosted at Cassel Mennonite Church.

Community Campfires at East Zorra Mennonite   

6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Green Space on July 30, August 13 and 27

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

Just a reminder that on Wednesday July 30, ice cream will be available during the campfire time. We will have ice cream sandwiches, dairy free ice cream and a gluten free option.”  

We thank God for our youth and look forward to continuing to provide fun and faith formative youth group experiences. To make this happen we need your prayers and your support. We are looking for a group of adults who are willing to serve as youth sponsors for approximately 2 events a month. We also need adults who are willing to support youth ministry by occasionally hosting an event or joining the youth and their sponsors at an event. 

Please prayerfully consider how God may be nudging you to share in this important ministry. If you would be willing to serve in some way please reach out to one of our Gift Discernment Committee members: Kim Leis, Jon Witzel or Kristen Cressman.

Adult Fellowship Grand River Boat Cruise in Caledonia on Wednesday September 3 2025. We will meet at the church @ 8:30 am to carpool. Cost is $80.00 per person, dinner and show included. See bulletin board for your food choice and indicate any food intolerances. Also indicate a w/c or walker for seating. Please sign up by Sunday August 17. Payment can be made to committee members; Ray and Laurel Zehr, Owen and Carol Cook, Mike and Karen Wirth.

Beyond our Church Community

Fall volunteer opportunity with MDS in Barrington, Nova Scotia! MDS is building a house for a wildfire survivor in this community. If you are interested and available to serve in September or October, contact the MDS Canada office at mdscanada@mds.org or 1(866) 261-1274 for more information.

Hidden Acres is hiring. We are looking to fill a part-time, year round housekeeping role as soon as possible. For more information visit www.hiddenacres.ca or contact the camp at info@hiddenacres.ca or 519-625-8602.

July 2 – September 30, 2025: Tending Tomorrow, Picturing Todayuses photography and poetry to reflect on the interconnection between humans and the natural world, with works by Leah Reesor-Keller and Ndagire Brendah. All are invited to the exhibit at the Grebel Gallery, Conrad Grebel University College.  

uwaterloo.ca/centre-peace-advancement/grebel-gallery

80th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Rockway invites everyone to join in the fun this September 13 & 14! Whether you buy tickets for our Food Market Fundraiser, or join in on one of the other FREE events (including a Hymn Sing!), go to rockway.ca/events to learn more about how we’re celebrating 80 years of Rockway.

10,000 Steps for Mental Health

Saturday, September 20, 2025
Shalom Counselling Services (9 Avondale Ave. S., Waterloo)
Registration at 9:00 am | Walk begins at 9:30 am

Join us for our 10th annual walk in support of accessible mental health care in Waterloo Region. The route travels from Shalom to the Iron Horse Trail and back, followed by a community barbecue to celebrate a decade of steps toward healing.

Whether your goal is 10,000 steps or 1,000, raising $10,000 or $100—every step and every dollar counts.

Sign up or donate at: shalomcounselling.org/steps

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 68          Sunday July 20, 2025                      No. 29

Sunday July 20, 2025

Prelude/Accompanist: Bethany Zehr              Song Leader: Lindsay Zehr

Greeters: Gloria & Merv Ropp                         Worship Leader: Kim Leis

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

Prelude          

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer

Songs of Praise           VT #31 “Come, We That Love” (We’re Marching to Zion)

VT #76  “Holy, Holy, Holy”

Offering – Leadership

Time with the Children                     

Scripture Reading: Romans 12:1-2; Daniel 6:10; Daniel 6:25-27

Message – Alexis Leis

Song of Response       VT #759 “Take My Life, and Let It Be”

Prayer of the Church – Pastor Ray     

Sending Song              VT #832 “The Lord Lift You Up”                      

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.

This Coming Week

Tuesday July 22^nd

• 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. Holy Movement & Stretch – bring an exercise mat / towel, water bottle, and light weights if you desire to incorporate. New participants always welcome!

Next Sunday – July 27, 2025

Prelude/Accompanist: Katie Wagler               Song Leader: Caleb Leis

Greeters: Tracey & Larry Kropf                       Worship Leader: Sheryl Leis

Audio/Visual: Todd Bender/Brian Wagler        Offering: Relief/MCC

Coffee: Gloria & Merv Ropp               Sharing by Megan MacDonald

EZMC Announcements

The family of Jim and Carol Schumm invite you to an open house on Sunday, July 27th 2-4 pm at East Zorra Mennonite Church in celebration of their 60th wedding anniversary. Best wishes only please.

Upcoming Summer Services (not at EZMC)

Sunday August 3 – Shared Worship service hosted at Tavistock Mennonite Church.

Sunday August 10 – Tavistock and Area Ecumenical Worship Service in Queen’s Park.

Sunday August 31 –Shared Worship Service hosted at Cassel Mennonite Church.

The Tavistock and Area Ministerial is excited about our Ecumenical Service in the Park being planned for Sunday August 10 at 10:30 AM.

We are looking for a team of musicians and singers to help lead music at this service. If you would be willing to join this team please speak to Pastor Ray in the next few weeks. Thanks so much!

Community Campfires at East Zorra Mennonite   

6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Green Space on July 30, August 13 and 27

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

On July 30 the Congregational Life group is planning to provide ice cream! 

We look forward to enjoying each other’s company.

We thank God for our youth and look forward to continuing to provide fun and faith formative youth group experiences. To make this happen we need your prayers and your support. We are looking for a group of adults who are willing to serve as youth sponsors for approximately 2 events a month. We also need adults who are willing to support youth ministry by occasionally hosting an event or joining the youth and their sponsors at an event. 

Please prayerfully consider how God may be nudging you to share in this important ministry. If you would be willing to serve in some way please reach out to one of our Gift Discernment Committee members: Kim Leis, Jon Witzel or Kristen Cressman.

Adult Fellowship Grand River Boat Cruise in Caledonia on Wednesday September 3 2025. We will meet at the church @ 8:30 am to carpool. Cost is $80.00 per person, dinner and show included. See bulletin board for your food choice and indicate any food intolerances. Also indicate a w/c or walker for seating. Please sign up by Sunday August 17. Payment can be made to committee members; Ray and Laurel Zehr, Owen and Carol Cook, Mike and Karen Wirth.

Beyond our Church Community

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

In this edition, you’ll read about Florence and Sheryl, longtime friends who cook together at MDS responses, and a couple in Constance Bay, who were affected by three floods in seven years. Read On the Level: https://conta.cc/3TIJaad

Fall volunteer opportunity with MDS in Barrington, Nova Scotia! MDS is building a house for a wildfire survivor in this community. If you are interested and available to serve in September or October, contact the MDS Canada office at mdscanada@mds.org or 1(866) 261-1274 for more information.

Hidden Acres is hiring. We are looking to fill a part-time, year round housekeeping role as soon as possible. For more information visit www.hiddenacres.ca or contact the camp at info@hiddenacres.ca or 519-625-8602.

Grebel is hiring! Come work at Conrad Grebel University College. Affiliated with the University of Waterloo, Grebel offers programs in Peace and Conflict Studies, Music, Theology, and more, along with a residence community. Positions are available in a variety of departments: 

• Director of Development – Review of applications begin July 14
• Peace and Conflict Studies Administrative and Graduate Coordinator – Apply by July 21
• Custodial team (two positions) – Apply by July 20

Learn more about each position and application details at uwaterloo.ca/grebel/contact-us/careers

July 2 – September 30, 2025: Tending Tomorrow, Picturing Todayuses photography and poetry to reflect on the interconnection between humans and the natural world, with works by Leah Reesor-Keller and Ndagire Brendah. All are invited to the exhibit at the Grebel Gallery, Conrad Grebel University College.  

uwaterloo.ca/centre-peace-advancement/grebel-gallery

80th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Rockway invites everyone to join in the fun this September 13 & 14! Whether you buy tickets for our Food Market Fundraiser, or join in on one of the other FREE events (including a Hymn Sing!), go to rockway.ca/events to learn more about how we’re celebrating 80 years of Rockway.

10,000 Steps for Mental Health

Saturday, September 20, 2025
Shalom Counselling Services (9 Avondale Ave. S., Waterloo)
Registration at 9:00 am | Walk begins at 9:30 am

Join us for our 10th annual walk in support of accessible mental health care in Waterloo Region. The route travels from Shalom to the Iron Horse Trail and back, followed by a community barbecue to celebrate a decade of steps toward healing.

Whether your goal is 10,000 steps or 1,000, raising $10,000 or $100—every step and every dollar counts.

Sign up or donate at: shalomcounselling.org/steps

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 68          Sunday July 13, 2025                      No. 28

Sunday July 13, 2025

Prelude/Accompanist: Heidi Wagler               Song Leader: Myron Ruby

Greeters: Lisa & Jay Zehr                               Worship Leader: Dawn Bender

Audio/Visual: Drystan Bender/Brian Wagler    Coffee: Michelle & Brad Brenneman

Prelude          

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer

Songs of Praise          

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

VT #133 “My Jesus, I Love Thee” 

Offering – Mennonite Church Canada & Mennonite Church Eastern Canada

Time with the Children – Pastor Mike                    

Scripture Reading: John 15:1-4

Sharing by Amy Yantzi

Song of Response      

VT #111 “10,000 Reasons/Bless the Lord”

Prayer of the Church – Dawn Bender          

Sending Song             

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

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.

This Coming Week

Monday July 14^th  

• 7 p.m. Walking Club – meet at the Mike Schout Wetlands Preserve, 28 Smith Creek’s Drive New Hamburg. This is a beautiful 1.6km 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.  

Wednesday July 16^th

• 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Summer Campfire. Please see announcement for more info.

Saturday July 19^th

• 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Private Party in the green space

Next Sunday – July 20, 2025

Prelude/Accompanist: Bethany Zehr              Song Leader: Lindsay Zehr

Greeters: Gloria & Merv Ropp                         Worship Leader: Kim Leis

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

Coffee: Janet & Marv Yantzi   

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

EZMC Announcements

The family of Jim and Carol Schumm invite you to an open house on Sunday, July 27th 2-4 pm at East Zorra Mennonite Church in celebration of their 60th wedding anniversary. Best wishes only please.

VBS 2025. True North: Trusting Jesus in a Wild World

Wow! What a week! We welcomed 180 kids (and more who wanted to come last minute) who joined us for a week of wild adventures as we explored God’s northern landscape. With only one rain day, the majority of our week was outside:

Playing games on our greenspace at Glacier Games; 

Diving into the book of Matthew at Sticky Scripture. Here each child received their own Gospel of Matthew, where they could mark off their special Bible verses for each day and learn more about what Jesus says to each of us; 

At Imagination Station kids saw science experiments that highlighted God‘s creativeness and innovation in the world around us;

And at Wild Bible Adventures they brought the Bible Stories to life as they experienced God’s word through tangible activities.

Our Assemblies were filled with visits from Scout and Alexis, enthusiastic worship songs, object lessons, interactive discussions, bible stories and learning our Bible Points.

Preparing Snack for 180 kids plus volunteers was not an easy feat, but our capable and hardworking crew kept everyone well nourished. A fan favorite snack was s’mores on a stick! 

We are so thankful for each person who participated in VBS, through prayer, or as a child or volunteer! We know that God is planting seeds for His Kingdom and it’s an honor for us to participate in His special work. 

We encourage you to chat with people involved at VBS and see what they thought about the week. We’re certain they have many stories to share. And we’re also certain you will want to be involved next year! 

Upcoming Summer Services (not at EZMC)

Sunday August 3 – Shared Worship service hosted at Tavistock Mennonite Church.

Sunday August 10 – Tavistock and Area Ecumenical Worship Service in Queen’s Park.

Sunday August 31 –Shared Worship Service hosted at Cassel Mennonite Church.

Community Campfires at East Zorra Mennonite   

6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Green Space on July 16, July 30, August 13 and 27

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

On July 30 the Congregational Life group is planning to provide ice cream! 

We look forward to enjoying each other’s company.

We thank God for our youth and look forward to continuing to provide fun and faith formative youth group experiences. To make this happen we need you prayers and your support. We are looking for a group of adults who are willing to serve as youth sponsors for approximately 2 events a month. We also need adults who are willing to support youth ministry by occasionally hosting an event or joining the youth and their sponsors at an event. 

Please prayerfully consider how God may be nudging you to share in this important ministry. If you would be willing to serve in some way please reach out to one of our Gift Discernment Committee members: Kim Leis, Jon Witzel or Kristen Cressman.

Adult Fellowship Grand River Boat Cruise in Caledonia on Wednesday September 3 2025. We will meet at the church @ 8:30 am to carpool. Cost is $80.00 per person, dinner and show included. See bulletin board for your food choice and indicate any food intolerances. Also indicate a w/c or walker for seating. Please sign up by Sunday August 17. Payment can be made to committee members; Ray and Laurel Zehr, Owen and Carol Cook, Mike and Karen Wirth.

Beyond our Church Community

Saturday July 12^th 8:30 – 10 a.m. Please join us for the Cassel Community Tractor Breakfast. Bring your tractor or car, visit with your neighbours and enjoy breakfast.  Donations will be sent to Canadian Food Grains Bank.

Hidden Acres is hiring. We are looking to fill a part-time, year round housekeeping role as soon as possible. For more information visit www.hiddenacres.ca or contact the camp at info@hiddenacres.ca or 519-625-8602.

Grebel is hiring! Come work at Conrad Grebel University College. Affiliated with the University of Waterloo, Grebel offers programs in Peace and Conflict Studies, Music, Theology, and more, along with a residence community. Positions are available in a variety of departments: 

• Director of Development – Review of applications begin July 14
• Peace and Conflict Studies Administrative and Graduate Coordinator – Apply by July 21
• Custodial team (two positions) – Apply by July 20

Learn more about each position and application details at uwaterloo.ca/grebel/contact-us/careers

July 2 – September 30, 2025: Tending Tomorrow, Picturing Todayuses photography and poetry to reflect on the interconnection between humans and the natural world, with works by Leah Reesor-Keller and Ndagire Brendah. All are invited to the exhibit at the Grebel Gallery, Conrad Grebel University College.  

uwaterloo.ca/centre-peace-advancement/grebel-gallery

80th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Rockway invites everyone to join in the fun this September 13 & 14! Whether you buy tickets for our Food Market Fundraiser, or join in on one of the other FREE events (including a Hymn Sing!), go to rockway.ca/events to learn more about how we’re celebrating 80 years of Rockway.

10,000 Steps for Mental Health

Saturday, September 20, 2025
Shalom Counselling Services (9 Avondale Ave. S., Waterloo)
Registration at 9:00 am | Walk begins at 9:30 am

Join us for our 10th annual walk in support of accessible mental health care in Waterloo Region. The route travels from Shalom to the Iron Horse Trail and back, followed by a community barbecue to celebrate a decade of steps toward healing.

Whether your goal is 10,000 steps or 1,000, raising $10,000 or $100—every step and every dollar counts.

Sign up or donate at: shalomcounselling.org/steps