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East Zorra Mennonite Church

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Rooted in Christ. Growing Together in Faith. Extending God’s love.

  • Our Purpose
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    • Ray Martin
    • Mike Williamson
    • Heidi Wagler
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    • EZMC Social Media Policy (pdf)
    • EZMC Safe Church Policy (pdf)
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    • Jr. Christian Education Team
    • VBS 2025
    • Youth Ministry
    • Congregational Life
    • Jr. High Youth Ministry
    • Health Ministry / Prayer Shawl Ministry
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    • Local Missions
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Weekly Announcements

Bulletin – March 2, 2025

March 4, 2025 | Filed Under: Weekly Announcements

We are looking forward to our Gather25 church retreat this evening, Feb28, and Saturday March 1. For further details, please see Gather25 email distributed earlier this week. If you are not able to join and wish to experience the Gather25 ilve broadcast from home, you can do so via this link => https://live.gather25.com/.  We hope to see you! 

Gather25 planning team

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 68          Sunday March 2, 2025                      No. 9

Prelude/Accompanist/Song Leader: Gather 25 Band

Greeters: Gloria & Merv Ropp                         Worship Leader: Sheryl Leis

Audio/Visual: Drystan Bender/Larry Kropf       Offering: Mission Partners

Coffee Hosts: Gloria & Merv Ropp                   Message: Pastors Ray & Mike

Prelude

“Hallelujah”

“Nothing But the Blood”

“Cornerstone”

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer

Songs of Gathering & Praise

“10000 Reasons”

“Praise”

“Goodness of God”

Offering: Mission Partners

“In Christ Alone”

Time with the Children – Sheryl Leis

Message & Sharing Time  Pastor Ray, Alexis Leis, Ashley Witzel and Pastor Mike. Opportunity will also be given for you to share a reflection on the weekend.

Song of Response

“Revival Generation”

Prayer of the Church – Sheryl Leis

Sending Song         

“Build Your Kingdom 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. Sunday School classes for children downstairs. There is no adult Sunday School and we invite adults to an extended coffee time.

This Coming Week

Tuesday March 4th 

  • 5:30 – 7 p.m. Pancake Supper – Care Team along with members of the Congregational Life committee are planning to host a Pancake supper at the church. Please join us for this intergenerational evening of food and fellowship. Everyone is welcome. Gluten free and dairy free pancakes will be available.

Wednesday March 5th      

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

Thursday March 6th 

  • 9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group
  • Tavistock & Area Ministerial Lenten Service & Lunch at Grace United Church (Elevator and Hearing Assistance). Each Thursday during Lent beginning at 12:10 p.m. with meditation and music in the Sanctuary followed by Soup and Sandwich Lunch at 12:30 p.m. Suggested donation is $10 for lunch. Theme is The “I AM” Statements of Jesus.

Week 1: The Bread of Life  (hosted by Tavistock Mennonite)

Friday March 7th  

  • 7 p.m. MYF – Baking Night at church

Next Sunday – March 9, 2025

Renewal at the Lord’s Table

Prelude/Accompanist: Katie Wagler                Song Leader: Myron Ruby

Greeters: Naomi & David Witzel            Worship Leader: Tracey Kropf

Audio/Visual: Dathan Bender/Brian Wagler      Offering: Student Aid

Coffee Hosts: Janet & Marv Yantzi                  Message: Pastor Mike

Please note that we will be having a communion service during worship.

EZMC Announcements

Please note that Sewing Circle will be on Tuesday March 11th instead of Tuesday March 4th.

A Lent Prayer and Reading Guide based on the Psalms will be sent to the congregation on Tuesday.

If you would like a copy of the Lent at Home Guide that will follow our Lenten Series Christ Among Us, they are available on the round table in the foyer at the back of the sanctuary.

On Saturday March 22  Youth Unlimited YFC Wilmot will host their annual fundraising banquet. This event will be held at Bethel Evangelical Missionary Church in New Dundee. East Zorra is sponsoring a table again this year. If you would be interested in attending and hearing about the ministry happening at Waterloo Oxford District Secondary School please speak to Pastor Ray.

If you receive Rejoice, Salt & Light or the Leader magazine, you will find them in your church mailbox. If you do not presently receive the Rejoice devotional but would like to please contact Lisa (office@ezmennonite.ca) as there are a few extra copies.

The 2025 Camp Subsidy Form is now available, and you can complete and return to Becky Bender either by email (treasurer@ezmennonite.ca) or put in her church mailbox. Forms are available in the literature rack beside the main bulletin board or by contacting Lisa  at office@ezmennonite.ca   If you have any questions please contact one of the Christian Education Lay Ministers – Bethany Kropf or Caleb Leis.

Beyond our Church Community

Spirit and screen. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of Apple, Insta and Google….Canadian Mennonite Magazine invites you to do a digital detox experiment this Lent. Starting March 5, cut screens back in some way and fill the gap with something holy. Then be in touch. We’ll bring detoxers together by teleconference during Lent and report stories in our June issue.

If intrigued, see canadianmennonite.org/detox.

Thursday February 27th – Saturday March 1st  Rockway Mennonite Collegiate proudly presents their all-school musical, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.rockway.ca/events. We look forward to welcoming you and your family into Wonka’s world of Pure Imagination! 

Help support Rockway’s Student Tuition Assistance program by becoming a golfer in Rockway’s 30th Annual Golf Classic and/or by contacting Chris Ainsworth, Director of Advancement (advancement@rockway.ca), to discuss how to become a golf sponsor. 

CommonWord Book Launch: The Word Fulfilled: Reading the Bible with Jesus –On Thursday, March 6 at 7:00 PM, Michael Pahl and guests Janessa Nayler-Giesbrecht and Phil Campbell-Enns will discusshow Jesus read His Bible and what that means for how we should read ours. Join in person or via livestream at commonword.ca/go/3820.

Upcoming MEDA (Mennonite Economic Development Associates) Events

Thursday March 6th 7:30–8:45 a.m. Krystal’s inspiring journey to become the CEO of Tri-Mach is a testament to the strength and resilience of women everywhere—a fitting celebration for this upcoming International Women’s Day! Her journey with Tri-Mach began in 2009 after completion of her studies in Economics at the University of Waterloo, and then specializing in Accounting at Wilfrid Laurier University.  Krystal’s pursuit of excellence, her drive and Vision soon elevated her to the role of Sales and Marketing Manager, then Vice President of Sales and Marketing and she now serves as Tri-Mach’s CEO. We are excited to hear from Krystal! Join us this Thursday for both inspiration and a delicious breakfast!!

7 – 9 p.m. Celebrate International Women’s Day with an inspiring evening featuring the film She Rises Up at The Elora Gorge Cinema (43 Mill St W, Elora, ON).

Everyone is welcome! Don’t miss out—join us for one or both events.

Date: Thursday, March 6, 2025

Cost for Breakfast at Graffiti Market: $15 for students, $25 for regular

Cost for She Rises Up Film Screening: $10 per person

RSVP: March 3

MDS invites volunteers to help rebuild a flooded home in Constance Bay (near Ottawa, ON). Sign up for a week, beginning in March, to help rebuild a house along the Ottawa River. Contact Clara Flores at cflores@mds.org or 1 (866) 261-1274 for more information and to sign up.

Saturday March 8th 7:30 p.m. (Trillium Lutheran Church, 22 William St, Waterloo):Menno Singers and Artistic Director Brandon Leis presents ‘Songs for the Changing Seasons’ with Abner Martin Scholarship winner, cellist Elliot Sloss from the Curtis Institute. Tickets $25, Child/Student $5 at the door, from choir members or at www.mennosingers.com

Wednesday March 12th 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.  Annual C. Henry Smith Peace Oratorical Contest. Listen to speeches about peacebuilding and social justice issues written by Peace and Conflict Studies students and Grebel residents. The intercollegiate competition is run by the Peace and Justice Ministries of Mennonite Central Committee (MCC). All are welcome to attend. Learn more at uwaterloo.ca/peace-conflict-studies/events 

Thursday March 13th – Grandparent & Grandchild Day at Hidden Acres

Looking for something to do with your grandkids during March Break? Join guest speaker Wanda Mann for a day of connecting with God through creativity and music. The theme for the day is GOD… GRAND’S… G’KIDS… Connecting the Dots.  Cost is $25/person and includes lunch. For more information or to register go to hiddenacres.ca/programs/grandparent-child-days

Friday March 21st – Sunday March 23rd The Clockmaker’s Daughter|. The Conrad Grebel University College Student Council presents the first Canadian production of The Clockmaker’s Daughter, a musical. General admission $25, Student/senior $20, with 10% of profits going to a local charity. Evening and matinee shows will be held at the Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts in downtown Kitchener. Buy tickets at uwaterloo.ca/grebel/clockmakers-daughter 

Monday March 24th 6 p.m. Hope Starts at Home: An evening with Phyllis Webstad, at Bingemans Conference Centre, 425 Bingemans Centre Dr, Kitchener. Phyllis is the  founder and ambassador of the Orange Shirt Society. Phyllis will share her childhood of healing and reconciliation in Canada as we seek to restore justice, foster belonging and address poverty in Ontario. Funds raised at the event will supply MCC Ontario’s new meat cannery. To learn more and order your tickets, go to mcc.org/evening-with-phyllis-webstad

Rockway Mennonite Collegiate invites you to join us at our upcoming events. Visit rockway.ca/events for more information: 

  • March 27, 7 pm: Youth Mental Health – Understanding Anxiety. The evening will focus on supporting parents and giving them the tools they need to support their child. 
  • April 15, 7 pm: Grade 7-12 Information Night. If your family is looking for a new school environment, join us to learn more about what Rockway has to offer. 
  • April 15, 7 pm: Grade 7-12 Art Exhibition. Enjoy an evening of student art and delicious treats in the Visual Arts Café. 

Monday April 14th – Seniors Retreat at Hidden Acres

Seniors are invited to Hidden Acres for Exploring Beginnings: The New Testament and the Anabaptist Bible with guest speakers Alicia Batten and Mollee Moua. Cost is $55 and includes lunch. For more information or to register go to hiddenacres.ca/programs/seniors-retreat

Silver Lake Mennonite Camp  (slmc.ca)

Summer Camp: Registration is now open for overnight camps and day camps! Visit slmc.ca/summer-camp to have a look at the 2025 schedule and program descriptions. We can’t wait to welcome your campers to Silver Lake this summer!

Retreats coming up soon: Staff Alumni Retreat (Mar 21-23) For all former staff to relax and relive memories. Music Retreat (Mar 28-30) Come for the love of making music, go home with new songs to share! Campfire & Voices Together singalongs, plus an instrument petting zoo. Go to slmc.ca/retreats for more info and to registerSilver Lake Mennonite Camp  (slmc.ca)

Come to Hidden Acres Summer Camp!

Are you looking for a fun, safe summer camp experience? Hidden Acres’ camp provides great opportunities to connect with God, each other and nature. Campers get to enjoy swimming, canoeing, archery, nature exploration, rock climbing, low ropes, camp-outs, sports, group games and more, all in the company of peers and our fun and supportive staff team. Check out www.hiddenacres.ca for our dates & rates. Contact our Program Director, Josh Penfold at josh@hiddenacres.ca for more information. See you for summer 2025!

Looking for a FUN and IMPACTFUL summer job?

Hidden Acres Camp provides opportunities for you to impact the lives of young people, serve God and others in a safe and fun environment, grow in your ability to be a great leader and have fun through it all! For available positions and more information or to apply, go to www.hiddenacres.ca or contact Josh Penfold at 519-625-8602 or josh@hiddenacres.ca

MCEC is excited to host MC Canada Gathering 2025. Volunteer Coordinators, Ashley Drudge and Gladys Bender are seeking volunteers of all ages, interested in welcoming and offering hospitality to MC Canada Gathering participants from across Canada. A variety of positions and time slots are available. For more information, please contact gathering@mennonitechurch.ca.

Gathering 2025 – Mennonite Church Canada – July 2-5, 2025 in Kitchener/Waterloo.

This Gathering is shaping up to be an incredible experience with three unique avenues for engagement: 

1.Congregational Gathering: Join delegates and congregational representatives for inspiring sessions, worship, and connection.

2.Youth Gathering: A vibrant, energetic event designed specifically for youth, hosted on the University of Waterloo campus.

3.U30 Young Adult Gathering: Engage with peers through tailored events, including a special post-Gathering celebration at Hidden Acres!

More details coming next week. Registration opens on March 5, 2025.

Be a Friend, Change a Life

Volunteer with MCC Ontario’s Circle of Friends program and bring hope and belonging to someone in need! Just 1-2 hours a week can bring stability, friendship and belonging to someone transitioning into a new chapter of life. Let’s create a community where no one feels forgotten. Ready to make an impact? Sign up today at mcc.org/opportunity/circle-friends!

Bulletin – February 23, 2025

February 21, 2025 | Filed Under: Weekly Announcements

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 68          Sunday February 23, 2025                      No. 8

Worship Service and EZMC Annual Meeting

Prelude/Accompanist: Heidi Wagler                Song Leader: Lindsay Zehr

Greeters: Ashley & Jon Witzel                         Worship Leader: Brendan Leis

Audio/Visual: Greg Pye/Brian Wagler              Offering: Leadership

Prelude

Words of Welcome & Announcements  

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer       

Song of Praise: VT #22 “What is this Place”    

Offering – Leadership

Scripture Reading and Devotional: 2 Timothy 1:1-7        Pastor Ray

Time with the Children   Pastor Mike

Sharing by Lindsay Zehr, Lay Minister of Worship; Susan Schmitz, Lay Minister of Mission; Bethany Kropf & Caleb Leis, Lay Ministers of Christian Education; Marv Yantzi (Care Team) and Heidi Wagler (Faith Community Nurse)

Congregational Song:  VT #717 “Renew Your Church”

Time of remembering led by Care Team                   

We will remember the lives of our congregational members who died in 2024

Marv Yantzi to remember Mary Jane Yantzi & Wallace Steinman

Jan Ropp to remember Mary Ropp, Hilda Swartzentruber & Lynda Lichti

Joan Yantzi to remember Katie Zehr & Norma Ropp

Prayer of the Church    Pastor Ray                                              

Congregational Song: VT #114 “Now Thank We All Our God”

East Zorra Community Slideshow: Celebration of many programs & volunteers  

Children dismissed to Sunday School

Sunday School Hour (immediately following worship) – Review of business operations of our church 

  • Review of the 2023 Annual Meeting minutes
  • Agenda Review
  • Summer Internship Proposal
  • Mission Committee Question for Discernment
  • Treasurer’s Report
    • Review and auditor approval of 2024.
    • Review and approval of 2025 commitments and offering schedule
  • Opportunity for Questions
  • Appreciation to Dawn Zehr upon her retirement as Church Treasurer
  • Departing to Serve – closing prayer

Departing to Serve – closing prayer

Today

2:30 – 4:30 p.m. – JWalkers (Jr Youth) will gather at church to play Giant Dutch Blitz.

This Coming Week

Wednesday February 26th      

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

Thursday February 27th 

  • 9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group

Friday February 28th & Saturday March 1st 

  • Gather25. Please see announcement for more details. 

Next Sunday – March 2, 2025

Prelude/Accompanist/Song Leader: Gather 25 Band

Greeters: Gloria & Merv Ropp                         Worship Leader: Sheryl Leis

Audio/Visual: Drystan Bender/Larry Kropf       Offering: Mission Partners

Coffee Hosts: Gloria & Merv Ropp                   Message: Pastors Ray & Mike

This week’s bible readings can be found in the Gather 25 Prayer Guide

EZMC Announcements

Gather 25 Church Retreat

We are 1 week away from our Gather 25 Church Retreat on Feb 28 and Mar 1, and we can’t wait to experience what amazing things God will do through this global church gathering!

Join us for our intergenerational community gathering / Church Retreat here at EZ starting the evening of Friday Feb 28 at 7pm and throughout the day on Saturday Mar 1. No registration needed, and you can come and go as you need.

To our many talented bakers – if you could help with some baked goods for our breakfast Saturday morning, please see the sign-up sheet posted on the bulletin board or let Amy Yantzi or Tracey Kropf know. Items must be nut-free and include muffins, cinnamon buns, scones, jam and granola bars. We are asking these to be dropped off by Friday Feb 28 at 7pm. Thank you! 

We have some exciting things planned! We’ll join several sessions of the global church gathering livestream, we’ll eat together, play games, join in worship with our worship band, have several workshop discussions (e.g. Intentional time of Prayer, Worship music jam, Creative Art, Hymn Sing, Reflective Discussion), and crafts / activities for children.

This gathering is for everyone!  Bring your families, friends, and neighbours! A separate comprehensive email will be sent next week with further details for the weekend. If you have any questions in the interim please contact any committee member – Ashley Witzel, Jess Yantzi, Brendan Leis, Alexis Leis, Amy Yantzi, Joan Yantzi, Shane Klassen, Tracey Kropf.

Tuesday March 4 Pancake Supper

5:30 – 7 p.m. Care Team along with members of the Congregational Life committee are planning to host a Pancake supper at the church. Please join us for this intergenerational evening of food and fellowship. Everyone is welcome. Gluten free and dairy free pancakes will be available.

If you receive Rejoice, Salt & Light or the Leader magazine, you will find them in your church mailbox. If you do not presently receive the Rejoice devotional but would like to please contact Lisa (office@ezmennonite.ca) as there are a few extra copies.

In April 2024, Agape made the difficult decision to close their ministry. We supported Agape financially, prayerfully and in delivering goods and Sunday services over a 20 year period. With the closing of Agape, Missions would like to explore the possibility of a new mission – starting a relationship with an newer emerging congregation registered with Mennonite Church Eastern Canada (MCEC).  Over 20 percent of MCEC’s, congregations are newcomer or first-generation Canadian congregations. During the coming week take time to discuss and prayerfully discern how the spirit is calling you/your family to this life-giving ministry. Come prepared to talk about this life-giving and enriching mission opportunity this Sunday.

The 2025 Camp Subsidy Form is now available, and you can complete and return to Becky Bender either by email (treasurer@ezmennonite.ca) or put in her church mailbox. Forms are available in the literature rack beside the main bulletin board or by contacting Lisa  at office@ezmennonite.ca   If you have any questions please contact one of the Christian Education Lay Ministers – Bethany Kropf or Caleb Leis.

Save the Dates – Vacation Bible School at EZMC will be held on July 7-11, 2025

Beyond our Church Community

Thursday February 27th at 7 p.m. (CST) – Anabaptism at 500: Commitment to Scripture. In person and livestream. Featuring John Roth, Sheila Klassen-Wiebe, Paul Doerksen, Brian Froese. From 1525 to 2025, Anabaptists have taken a very personal and community-oriented approach to their embrace of the scriptures. This panel conversation will investigate the ways the Bible shaped the 16th century Anabaptist movement at its inception and continues to uniquely define the Anabaptist tradition today. We will also celebrate the Canadian launch of the Anabaptist Community Bible! Livestream link – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ll3NZ3j-YfM. 

Thursday February 27th – Saturday March 1st  Rockway Mennonite Collegiate proudly presents their all-school musical, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.rockway.ca/events. We look forward to welcoming you and your family into Wonka’s world of Pure Imagination! 

Help support Rockway’s Student Tuition Assistance program by becoming a golfer in Rockway’s 30th Annual Golf Classic and/or by contacting Chris Ainsworth, Director of Advancement (advancement@rockway.ca), to discuss how to become a golf sponsor.  

Saturday March 8th 7:30 p.m. (Trillium Lutheran Church, 22 William St, Waterloo):Menno Singers and Artistic Director Brandon Leis presents ‘Songs for the Changing Seasons’ with Abner Martin Scholarship winner, cellist Elliot Sloss from the Curtis Institute. Tickets $25, Child/Student $5 at the door, from choir members or at www.mennosingers.com

Wednesday March 12th 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.  Annual C. Henry Smith Peace Oratorical Contest. Listen to speeches about peacebuilding and social justice issues written by Peace and Conflict Studies students and Grebel residents. The intercollegiate competition is run by the Peace and Justice Ministries of Mennonite Central Committee (MCC). All are welcome to attend. Learn more at uwaterloo.ca/peace-conflict-studies/events 

Thursday March 13th – Grandparent & Grandchild Day at Hidden Acres

Looking for something to do with your grandkids during March Break? Join guest speaker Wanda Mann for a day of connecting with God through creativity and music. The theme for the day is GOD… GRAND’S… G’KIDS… Connecting the Dots.  Cost is $25/person and includes lunch. For more information or to register go to hiddenacres.ca/programs/grandparent-child-days

Friday March 21st – Sunday March 23rd The Clockmaker’s Daughter|. The Conrad Grebel University College Student Council presents the first Canadian production of The Clockmaker’s Daughter, a musical. General admission $25, Student/senior $20, with 10% of profits going to a local charity. Evening and matinee shows will be held at the Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts in downtown Kitchener. Buy tickets at uwaterloo.ca/grebel/clockmakers-daughter 

Monday March 24th 6 p.m. Hope Starts at Home: An evening with Phyllis Webstad, at Bingemans Conference Centre, 425 Bingemans Centre Dr, Kitchener. Phyllis is the  founder and ambassador of the Orange Shirt Society. Phyllis will share her childhood of healing and reconciliation in Canada as we seek to restore justice, foster belonging and address poverty in Ontario. Funds raised at the event will supply MCC Ontario’s new meat cannery. To learn more and order your tickets, go to mcc.org/evening-with-phyllis-webstad.

Monday April 14th – Seniors Retreat at Hidden Acres

Seniors are invited to Hidden Acres for Exploring Beginnings: The New Testament and the Anabaptist Bible with guest speakers Alicia Batten and Mollee Moua. Cost is $55 and includes lunch. For more information or to register go to hiddenacres.ca/programs/seniors-retreat

Silver Lake Mennonite Camp  (slmc.ca)

Summer Camp: Registration is now open for overnight camps and day camps! Visit slmc.ca/summer-camp to have a look at the 2025 schedule and program descriptions. We can’t wait to welcome your campers to Silver Lake this summer!

Winter and Spring Retreats registration now open. Go to slmc.ca/retreats for moreinfo. Coming up soon: Winter Camp for Grown-Ups (Feb 28-Mar 2) – This weekend is for 20 & 30 somethings who want to get away on a low-key, relaxing retreat. This unscheduled weekend gives folks the chance to relax, enjoy the outdoors, play games, and/or make space for personal reflection. It is co-hosted by PiE (Pastors in Exile) and SLMC. (also in March: Staff Alumni Retreat and Music Retreat)

Gathering 2025 – Mennonite Church Canada – July 2-5, 2025 in Kitchener/Waterloo.

This Gathering is shaping up to be an incredible experience with three unique avenues for engagement: 

1.Congregational Gathering: Join delegates and congregational representatives for inspiring sessions, worship, and connection.

2.Youth Gathering: A vibrant, energetic event designed specifically for youth, hosted on the University of Waterloo campus.

3.U30 Young Adult Gathering: Engage with peers through tailored events, including a special post-Gathering celebration at Hidden Acres!

Please see the bulletin board for more information about this opportunity.

Mennonite Central Committee Ontario – Join our team!
Are you ready to make a difference? We have two openings across Ontario:

  1. Thrift Team Member – Processing Focus ?- Join the MCC New Hamburg Thrift Centre team sorting and pricing donations, specializing in crafts/fabrics and housewares.
  2. Indigenous Neighbours Program Associate?- The MCC Ontario office in TImmins is looking for a new program assistant to support our community programs across Ontario.

Don’t miss out on these opportunities to grow your career and make a positive impact. Check out these listings and apply today!    

Be a Friend, Change a Life

Volunteer with MCC Ontario’s Circle of Friends program and bring hope and belonging to someone in need! Just 1-2 hours a week can bring stability, friendship and belonging to someone transitioning into a new chapter of life. Let’s create a community where no one feels forgotten. Ready to make an impact? Sign up today at mcc.org/opportunity/circle-friends!

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

In this edition, you’ll find an update on MDS’ involvement with LA wildfire response and highlights from MDS’ 75th anniversary annual celebration.

Read On the Level: https://conta.cc/3X6b5TD

MDS invites volunteers to help rebuild a flooded home in Constance Bay (near Ottawa, ON). Sign up for a week, beginning in March, to help rebuild a house along the Ottawa River. Contact Clara Flores at cflores@mds.org or 1 (866) 261-1274 for more information and to sign up.

Bulletin – February 16, 2025

February 14, 2025 | Filed Under: Weekly Announcements

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 68              Sunday February 16, 2025                      No. 7

Prelude/Accompanist: Bethany Zehr               Song Leader: Susan Schmitz

Greeters: Naomi & Dustin Mogk                       Worship Leader: Dawn Bender

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

Message: Pastor Mike                                      Coffee Hosts: Shirley & Phil Ruby

Prelude

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer

Songs of Gathering & Praise      

VT #478 “I Come with Joy”

VT #477 “Seed, Scattered and Sown”

Offering: Relief/Mennonite Central Committee

Time with the Children – Pastor Mike

Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 12:5-11; Luke 22:14-20

Message – Pastor Mike

Song of Response

VT #480 “I Am the Bread of Life”

Service of Communion

Prayer of the Church – Pastor Ray

Sending Song         

VT # 812 “Sent Forth by God’s Blessing”

Benediction

Today

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

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

This Coming Week

Monday February 17th

  • 11 a.m. Private Party

Tuesday February 18th

  • 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. Prayer Shawl at Jean MacDonald’s (182 Rudy Ave, Tavistock).

Wednesday February 19th      

  • 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Coffee and Bible Study
  • 7 p.m. Church Ministry Council Meeting
  • E Z Play Group setup

Thursday February 20th 

  • 9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group
  • 6 p.m. 2025 Big Church Read Supper Book Club

Friday February 21st

  • MYF – Outdoor Snow Games in the Green Space at church.

Next Sunday – February 23, 2025

EZMC Annual Meeting

10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

In person and available virtually on Zoom

Prelude/Accompanist: Heidi Wagler                Song Leader: Lindsay Zehr

Greeters: Ashley & Jon Witzel                         Worship Leader: Brendan Leis

Audio/Visual: Greg Pye/Brian Wagler              Offering: Leadership

This week’s bible readings can be found in the Gather 25 Prayer Guide

2:30 – 4:30 p.m. – JWalkers (Jr Youth) will gather at church to play Giant Dutch Blitz.

EZMC Announcements

Gather 25 Church Retreat

We are 2 weeks away from our Gather 25 Church Retreat on Feb 28 and Mar 1, and we can’t wait to experience what amazing things God will do through this global church gathering!

Join us for our intergenerational community gathering / Church Retreat here at EZ starting the evening of Friday Feb 28 at 7pm and throughout the day on Saturday Mar 1. No registration needed, and you can come and go as you need.

We have some exciting things planned! We’ll join several sessions of the global church gathering livestream, we’ll eat together, play games, join in worship with our worship band, have several workshop discussions (e.g. Intentional time of Prayer, Worship music jam, Creative Art, Hymn Sing, Reflective Discussion), and crafts / activities for children.

This gathering is for everyone!  Bring your families, friends, and neighbours. You won’t want to miss it! Are you in? 

In the coming weeks we’ll share further details, requests for contributions to our breakfast, and we will tap a few shoulders to help during the event. If you’d love to be involved, don’t wait to be tapped! Reach out to a committee member now – Ashley Witzel, Jess Yantzi, Brendan Leis, Alexis Leis, Amy Yantzi, Joan Yantzi, Shane Klassen, Tracey Kropf.

SCRC is pleased to welcome Heidi Wagler back to her role as Faith Community Nurse following her medical leave last year. Heidi will be slowly easing back into her role over the coming weeks.  We are grateful for Heidi’s recovery and regained strength. Thank you for your ongoing care and support of Heidi and her family during her leave. We ask for your continued prayers for Heidi as she transitions back and continues with maintenance medical infusions and ongoing monitoring of her health. Heidi, we pray for strength, good health, and many blessings for you as you return to your ministry.   

In April 2024, Agape made the difficult decision to close their ministry. We supported Agape financially, prayerfully and in delivering goods and Sunday services over a 20 year period. With the closing of Agape, Missions would like to explore the possibility of a new mission – starting a relationship with an newer emerging congregation registered with Mennonite Church Eastern Canada (MCEC).  Over 20 percent of MCEC’s, congregations are newcomer or first-generation Canadian congregations. During the coming week take time to discuss and prayerfully discern how the spirit is calling you/your family to this life-giving ministry. Come prepared to talk about this life-giving and enriching mission opportunity next Sunday.

After careful consideration worship committee has decided that the organ is not being used to its capabilities and we want to give it to a new home. If you would like to have it or know someone who would appreciate it please contact Linda Schumm or Lindsay Zehr.

The 2025 Camp Subsidy Form is now available, and you can complete and return to Becky Bender either by email (treasurer@ezmennonite.ca) or put in her church mailbox. Forms are available in the literature rack beside the main bulletin board or by contacting Lisa  at office@ezmennonite.ca   If you have any questions please contact one of the Christian Education Lay Ministers – Bethany Kropf or Caleb Leis.

Tuesday March 4 Pancake Supper

5:30 – 7 p.m. Care Team along with members of the Congregational Life committee are planning to host a Pancake supper at the church. Please join us for this intergenerational evening of food and fellowship. Everyone is welcome. Gluten free and dairy free pancakes will be available.

The Mission Service Trip through MCC Appalachia Build will not take place this August as there was insufficient interest. Missions will continue to explore other Service Trip opportunities.

Save the Dates – Vacation Bible School at EZMC will be held on July 7-11, 2025

Beyond our Church Community

MDS invites volunteers to help rebuild a flooded home in Constance Bay (near Ottawa, ON). Sign up for a week, beginning in March, to help rebuild a house along the Ottawa River. Contact Clara Flores at cflores@mds.org or 1 (866) 261-1274 for more information and to sign up.

Rockway’s Founders’ Day Chapel, Soup Supper Fundraiser and Alumni Sports Challenge originally scheduled for Friday, February 14 has been postponed to Friday, May 2. Please visit www.rockway.ca/events for more information. We thank you for your continued prayers as our school continues to heal from the tragic loss experienced in our community.

Monday February 17th – Family Day Open House – From 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Hidden Acres is hosting a free Family Day Open House. Bring your family for a day of indoor and outdoor activities such as crafts, sledding, snowshoeing, pretzel making, games, and more! Bring a bag lunch or purchase a hot lunch for $6/person. Please RSVP to info@hiddenacres.ca. More information at hiddenacres.ca

43rd Annual Ontario Mennonite Relief Livestock Sale
Tuesday February 18th & Thursday February 20th at the Ontario Livestock Exchange, St. Jacobs. Since 1981, the Livestock Sale (formerly Heifer Sale) has raised over $5.1 million to support the work of Mennonite Central Committee through the auctioning of heifers and other donated items. For more information, to sponsor or donate to the sale, contact Ralph Martin at 519-669-2122 or John Brenneman at 519-504-1558.

Saturday February 22nd 5 p.m. Coldest Night of the Year Fundraiser for the Wilmot Family Resource Centre!  WFRC will be running this event in New Hamburg. CNOY is a walk to help raise awareness and funds in support of those who are experiencing hurt, homelessness, or hunger.  The Wilmot Family Resource Centre (175 Waterloo St.) provides these supports in Wilmot and Wellesley townships, including weekly food hampers, warm clothing, mental health supports, and much more! 

Thursday February 27 at 7 pm. (CST) – Anabaptism at 500: Commitment to Scripture. In person and livestream. Featuring John Roth, Sheila Klassen-Wiebe, Paul Doerksen, Brian Froese. From 1525 to 2025, Anabaptists have taken a very personal and community-oriented approach to their embrace of the scriptures. This panel conversation will investigate the ways the Bible shaped the 16th century Anabaptist movement at its inception and continues to uniquely define the Anabaptist tradition today. We will also celebrate the Canadian launch of the Anabaptist Community Bible! Livestream link – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ll3NZ3j-YfM. 

February 27th – March 1st  Rockway Mennonite Collegiate proudly presents their all-school musical, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.rockway.ca/events. We look forward to welcoming you and your family into Wonka’s world of Pure Imagination! 

Saturday March 8th 7:30 p.m. (Trillium Lutheran Church, 22 William St, Waterloo):Menno Singers and Artistic Director Brandon Leis presents ‘Songs for the Changing Seasons’ with Abner Martin Scholarship winner, cellist Elliot Sloss from the Curtis Institute. Tickets $25, Child/Student $5 at the door, from choir members or at www.mennosingers.com

Thursday March 13th – Grandparent & Grandchild Day at Hidden Acres

Looking for something to do with your grandkids during March Break? Join guest speaker Wanda Mann for a day of connecting with God through creativity and music. The theme for the day is GOD… GRAND’S… G’KIDS… Connecting the Dots.  Cost is $25/person and includes lunch. For more information or to register go to hiddenacres.ca/programs/grandparent-child-days

Monday March 24th 6 p.m. Hope Starts at Home: An evening with Phyllis Webstad, at Bingemans Conference Centre, 425 Bingemans Centre Dr, Kitchener. Phyllis is the  founder and ambassador of the Orange Shirt Society. Phyllis will share her childhood of healing and reconciliation in Canada as we seek to restore justice, foster belonging and address poverty in Ontario. Funds raised at the event will supply MCC Ontario’s new meat cannery. To learn more and order your tickets, go to mcc.org/evening-with-phyllis-webstad.

Monday April 14th – Seniors Retreat at Hidden Acres

Seniors are invited to Hidden Acres for Exploring Beginnings: The New Testament and the Anabaptist Bible with guest speakers Alicia Batten and Mollee Moua. Cost is $55 and includes lunch. For more information or to register go to hiddenacres.ca/programs/seniors-retreat

Gathering 2025 – Mennonite Church Canada – July 2-5, 2025 in Kitchener/Waterloo.

This Gathering is shaping up to be an incredible experience with three unique avenues for engagement: 

1.Congregational Gathering: Join delegates and congregational representatives for inspiring sessions, worship, and connection.

2.Youth Gathering: A vibrant, energetic event designed specifically for youth, hosted on the University of Waterloo campus.

3.U30 Young Adult Gathering: Engage with peers through tailored events, including a special post-Gathering celebration at Hidden Acres!

Please see the bulletin board for more information about this opportunity.

Mennonite Central Committee Ontario – Join our team!
Are you ready to make a difference? We have two openings across Ontario:

  1. Thrift Team Member – Processing Focus ?- Join the MCC New Hamburg Thrift Centre team sorting and pricing donations, specializing in crafts/fabrics and housewares.
  2. Indigenous Neighbours Program Associate?- The MCC Ontario office in TImmins is looking for a new program assistant to support our community programs across Ontario.

Don’t miss out on these opportunities to grow your career and make a positive impact. Check out these listings and apply today!    

Be a Friend, Change a Life

Volunteer with MCC Ontario’s Circle of Friends program and bring hope and belonging to someone in need! Just 1-2 hours a week can bring stability, friendship and belonging to someone transitioning into a new chapter of life. Let’s create a community where no one feels forgotten. Ready to make an impact? Sign up today at mcc.org/opportunity/circle-friends!

February 9, 2025 Bulletin

February 7, 2025 | Filed Under: Weekly Announcements

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 68              Sunday February 9, 2025                      No. 6

Prelude/Accompanist: Glorify                        Song Leader: Glorify

Greeters: Flo & Lorne Metzger                        Worship Leader: Jared Yantzi

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

Coffee Hosts: Gloria & Merv Ropp                   Message: Norm Dyck

Prelude

“Jireh”

“Praise”

“All the People Said Amen”        

Words of Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship

Songs of Gathering & Praise      

“Good Grace”

“Jireh”

Offering: Mission Partners

Offertory “Promises”

Moment for Mission                              Susan Schmitz

Time with the Children 

Norm Dyck, Mennonite Church Eastern Canada Engagement Minister

Scripture Reading: Acts 2:42-47; Romans 12:1-2

Message Always Transforming     Norm Dyck

Song of Response

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

Sharing & Prayer of the Church            Pastor Mike Williamson   

Sending Song         

“Build Your Kingdom 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. Sunday School classes for all ages.

Adults are invited to the basement to hear more sharing from Norm Dyck, MCEC Engagement Minister.

This Coming Week

Tuesday February 11th

  • 7 p.m. Misson Committee Meeting

Wednesday February 12th      

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

Thursday February 13th 

  • 9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group
  • 12 p.m. 12 p.m. 12 p.m. High Noon Seniors Lunch at Grace United Church in Tavistock. A homestyle lunch will be served followed by a guest speaker, Amanda Hunter, who has a business called Worm Wrangler. Amanda has a M.Sc. and a MSA in soil science and she may bring some of her squirmy friends with her. She was featured on Kitchener CTV’s segment called “Made Right Here”.

Next Sunday – February 16, 2025

Anabaptism at 500 – Services of Renewal

Renewal at the Lord’s Table

Bible Readings

Monday        Matthew 26:26-30

Tuesday       Mark 14:22-26

Wednesday  Luke 22:14-20

Thursday     1 Corinthians 11:23-26               

Friday          Luke 5:27-39

Prelude/Accompanist: Bethany Zehr               Song Leader: Susan Schmitz

Greeters: Naomi & Dustin Mogk             Worship Leader: Dawn Bender

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

Coffee Hosts: Shirley & Phil Ruby                    Message: Pastor Mike

We will be having a communion service during Worship

Extending God’s Love

EZMC Announcements

January 2025 Donations Received Summary

Offering Schedule – $17,091.10

The 2024 EZMC Annual Meeting will be held on Sunday February 23, 2025.

  • The meeting will be from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., in person and available virtually on Zoom.
  • The Annual Report was sent by email but if you would prefer a paper copy, there are a few extra copies on the bottom row of church mailboxes.   

After careful consideration worship committee has decided that the organ is not being used to it’s capabilities and we want to give it to a new home. If you would like to have it or know someone who would appreciate it please contact Linda Schumm or Lindsay Zehr.

The 2025 Camp Subsidy Form is now available, and you can complete and return to Becky Bender either by email (treasurer@ezmennonite.ca) or put in her church mailbox. Forms are available in the literature rack beside the main bulletin board or by contacting Lisa  at office@ezmennonite.ca   If you have any questions please contact one of the Christian Education Lay Ministers – Bethany Kropf or Caleb Leis.

Tuesday March 4 Pancake Supper

5:30 – 7 p.m. Care Team along with members of the Congregational Life committee are planning to host a Pancake supper at the church. Please join us for this intergenerational evening of food and fellowship. Everyone is welcome. Gluten free and dairy free pancakes will be available.

The Mission Committee is planning to organize a volunteer opportunity for our congregation with Ray of Hope in downtown Kitchener by serving a meal to those who are in need early this Spring. We would be responsible for preparing and serving a meal for approximately 200 people. Anyone interested in serving in this way please contact a member of the missions committee. Susan Schmitz, Ray Martin, Duane Swartzentruber, Amy Yantzi, of Dylan Yantzi. 

Summer Mission Trip – Are you looking for a summer vacation where you can serve those in need? If so, Missions is planning a service trip to West Virginia or Kentucky August 9/10 to 16/17. We would work with MCC Appalachia Build (formerly SWAP). The service trip would involve home repair ministry to make homes safe, warm and dry while developing relationships. Before we can proceed, we will need to have a good idea of how many youth and adults would like to participate in the service trip by February 10. If you’re curious or have questions, feel free to speak with Pastor Ray or anyone on the Missions Ministry team. If interested, add your name(s) to the sign-up sheet on the lower foyer bulletin board. This is one way to respond to human needs abroad in the name of Christ.

Save the Dates – Vacation Bible School at EZMC will be held on July 7-11, 2025

Beyond our Church Community

MDS invites volunteers to help rebuild a flooded home in Constance Bay (near Ottawa, ON). Sign up for a week, beginning in March, to help rebuild a house along the Ottawa River. Contact Clara Flores at cflores@mds.org or 1 (866) 261-1274 for more information and to sign up.

Saturday February 8th “Hope Starts at Home: Discover our Local Programs.” 

at the Mennonite Central Committee offices – 50 Kent Avenue, Kitchener. There are two timeslots to choose from 9:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. or 2 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.

You already know about MCC’s international work, but this is a chance to see how we’re making a difference right here in Ontario, too. It’s a hands-on, interactive experience where you can connect with the stories and impact of our local programs.

Here’s what you’ll get to do:

  • Taste delicious Raw Carrot soup
  • Join a friendship circle
  • Walk in the shoes of newcomers to Canada
  • Learn about food sovereignty for Indigenous peoples and more…

Each station will give you a deeper look into how local action is creating a global impact and how your support helps make it all possible.

Save Your Spot: Space is limited, so sign up here.

Thursday February 13th MCEC Executive Council invites you to join in celebrating Ann L. Schultz, MCEC Intentional Interim Executive Team Leader, as we bid her farewell and honor her two years of ministry at MCEC. Come to 50 Kent from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. in the community room at 50 Kent in Kitchener. At 1:30 there will be a short program, followed by time for fellowship.

Interfaith Counselling Centre in New Hamburg invites you to the Hold Me Tight Couple’s Workshop. The Hold Me Tight Workshop is based on the award-winning and research-proven Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) approach developed by Dr. Sue Johnson. You will learn how to: Acknowledge strengths in your relationship. Identify negative communication patterns. Develop skills to de-escalate conflict in your relationship and heal from past relationship injuries. Dates: Friday, February 14th, 6pm-10pm Saturday, February 15th, 9am-5pm Sunday, February 16th, 1pm-5pm (See poster for further details)

Rockway’s Founders’ Day Chapel, Soup Supper Fundraiser and Alumni Sports Challenge originally scheduled for Friday, February 14 has been postponed to Friday, May 2. Please visit www.rockway.ca/events for more information. We thank you for your continued prayers as our school continues to heal from the tragic loss experienced in our community.

Monday February 17th – Family Day Open House – From 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Hidden Acres is hosting a free Family Day Open House. Bring your family for a day of indoor and outdoor activities such as crafts, sledding, snowshoeing, pretzel making, games, and more! Bring a bag lunch or purchase a hot lunch for $6/person. Please RSVP to info@hiddenacres.ca. More information at hiddenacres.ca

43rd Annual Ontario Mennonite Relief Livestock Sale
Tuesday February 18th & Thursday February 20th at the Ontario Livestock Exchange, St. Jacobs. Since 1981, the Livestock Sale (formerly Heifer Sale) has raised over $5.1 million to support the work of Mennonite Central Committee through the auctioning of heifers and other donated items. For more information, to sponsor or donate to the sale, contact Ralph Martin at 519-669-2122 or John Brenneman at 519-504-1558.

Saturday February 22nd 5 p.m. Coldest Night of the Year Fundraiser for the Wilmot Family Resource Centre!  WFRC will be running this event in New Hamburg. CNOY is a walk to help raise awareness and funds in support of those who are experiencing hurt, homelessness, or hunger.  The Wilmot Family Resource Centre (175 Waterloo St.) provides these supports in Wilmot and Wellesley townships, including weekly food hampers, warm clothing, mental health supports, and much more! 

Thursday February 27 at 7 pm. (CST) – Anabaptism at 500: Commitment to Scripture

In person and livestream. Featuring John Roth, Sheila Klassen-Wiebe, Paul Doerksen, Brian Froese.

From 1525 to 2025, Anabaptists have taken a very personal and community-oriented approach to their embrace of the scriptures. This panel conversation will investigate the ways the Bible shaped the 16th century Anabaptist movement at its inception and continues to uniquely define the Anabaptist tradition today.

We will also celebrate the Canadian launch of the Anabaptist Community Bible!

Livestream link – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ll3NZ3j-YfM. 

February 27th – March 1st  Rockway Mennonite Collegiate proudly presents their all-school musical, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.rockway.ca/events. We look forward to welcoming you and your family into Wonka’s world of Pure Imagination! 

Saturday, March 8th 7:30 p.m. (Trillium Lutheran Church, 22 William St, Waterloo):Menno Singers and Artistic Director Brandon Leis presents ‘Songs for the Changing Seasons’ with Abner Martin Scholarship winner, cellist Elliot Sloss from the Curtis Institute. Tickets $25, Child/Student $5 at the door, from choir members or at www.mennosingers.com

Monday March 24th 6 p.m. Hope Starts at Home: An evening with Phyllis Webstad, at Bingemans Conference Centre, 425 Bingemans Centre Dr, Kitchener. Phyllis is the  founder and ambassador of the Orange Shirt Society. Phyllis will share her childhood of healing and reconciliation in Canada as we seek to restore justice, foster belonging and address poverty in Ontario. Funds raised at the event will supply MCC Ontario’s new meat cannery. To learn more and order your tickets, go to mcc.org/evening-with-phyllis-webstad.

Gathering 2025 – Mennonite Church Canada – July 2-5, 2025 in Kitchener/Waterloo.

This Gathering is shaping up to be an incredible experience with three unique avenues for engagement: 

1.Congregational Gathering: Join delegates and congregational representatives for inspiring sessions, worship, and connection.

2.Youth Gathering: A vibrant, energetic event designed specifically for youth, hosted on the University of Waterloo campus.

3.U30 Young Adult Gathering: Engage with peers through tailored events, including a special post-Gathering celebration at Hidden Acres!

Please see the bulletin board for more information about this opportunity.

Mennonite Central Committee Ontario – Join our team!
Are you ready to make a difference? We have two openings across Ontario:

  1. Thrift Team Member – Processing Focus ?- Join the MCC New Hamburg Thrift Centre team sorting and pricing donations, specializing in crafts/fabrics and housewares.
  2. Indigenous Neighbours Program Associate?- The MCC Ontario office in TImmins is looking for a new program assistant to support our community programs across Ontario.

Don’t miss out on these opportunities to grow your career and make a positive impact. Check out these listings and apply today!    

Bulletin – January 26, 2025

January 24, 2025 | Filed Under: Weekly Announcements

Services of Renewal: Renewal Through Repentance

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 68          Sunday January 26, 2025                      No. 4

Prelude/Accompanist: Laurie Yantzi               Song Leader: Lindsay Zehr

Greeters: Elaine & Dale Leis                           Worship Leader: Tyler Yantzi

Audio/Visual: Greg Pye/Brian Wagler              Offering: Local Ministries

Coffee Hosts: Kristen & Daryl Cressman           Message: Pastor Mike       

Prelude

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship and Opening Prayer

Songs of Gathering & Praise      

VT #25 “Brethren, We Have Met to Worship”

VT #57 “Holy Spirit, Come with Power”

Offering: Local Ministries

Time with the Children – Pastor Mike

Scripture Reading: Mark 1:9-15

Message – Pastor Mike

Song of Response 

VT #606 “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah”

Sharing & Prayer of the Church – Pastor Ray   

Sending Song         

VT #628 “What a Friend We Have in Jesus”

Benediction

Today

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

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

12 p.m. Private Party

2 – 3:30 p.m. JWalkers (Junior Youth) – Sledding and skating at Erin and Dustin Yantzi’s (1018 Huron St. New Hamburg). We will have hot chocolate and timbits to share. Please bring a helmet and your skating/sledding equipment. Dress very warm!

This Coming Week

Tuesday January 28th

  • EZMC Annual Reports are due to the church office

Wednesday January 29th      

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

Thursday January 30th 

  • 9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group

Friday January 31st 

  • 7 p.m. MYF will be hosting an evening of crokinole and card games at church. Please bring your crokinole board and finger foods to share. All ages are invited to attend.

Next Sunday – February 2, 2025

Anabaptism at 500 – Services of Renewal

Renewal Through Trust and Yieldedness

Week Three Bible Readings

Monday January 27 – Jeremiah 17:5-10

Tuesday January 28 – Proverbs 3:1-12

Wednesday January 29 – Isaiah 12:1-6

Thursday January 30 – Matthew 18:1-5

Friday January 31 – John 15:1-17

Prelude/Accompanist: Brandy Sell                  Song Leader: Myron Ruby

Greeter: Jean MacDonald                                Worship Leader: Kim Leis

Audio/Visual: Drystan Bender/Larry Kropf       Offering: Mission Partners

Coffee Hosts: Gloria & Tom Roth                     Message: Pastor Ray         

EZMC Announcements

The 2024 EZMC Annual Meeting will be held on Sunday February 23, 2025.

  • The meeting will be from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., in person and available virtually on Zoom.
  • Please submit your Annual Reports, to Lisa by Tuesday January 28th. Email to office@ezmennonite.ca or place in her church mailbox. 
  • The Annual Report will be sent by email but if you would prefer a paper copy, let Lisa know by Thursday February 6th. Please note that paper copies of the report will be delivered to those who receive a printed copy of our Sunday bulletin each Friday.

Please check the lost and found table in the basement. Any items that are not claimed will be donated.

Please note that to reach the church you need to dial 519-462-2692. We no longer have a 2nd line and 519-462-2814 has been disconnected.

If you ordered the Anabaptist Community Bible, it has arrived and you will find it in your church mailbox this morning.

The Missions Committee is planning to organize a volunteer opportunity for our congregation with Ray of Hope in downtown Kitchener by serving a meal to those who are in need early this Spring. We would be responsible for preparing and serving a meal for approximately 200 people. Anyone interested in serving in this way please contact a member of the missions committee. Susan Schmitz, Ray Martin, Duane Swartzentruber, Amy Yantzi, of Dylan Yantzi. 

Summer Mission Trip – Are you looking for a summer vacation where you can serve those in need? If so, Missions is planning a service trip to West Virginia or Kentucky August 9/10 to 16/17. We would work with MCC Appalachia Build (formerly SWAP). The service trip would involve home repair ministry to make homes safe, warm and dry while developing relationships. Before we can proceed, we will need to have a good idea of how many youth and adults would like to participate in the service trip by February 10. If you’re curious or have questions, feel free to speak with Pastor Ray or anyone on the Missions Ministry team. If interested, add your name(s) to the sign-up sheet on the lower foyer bulletin board. This is one way to respond to human needs abroad in the name of Christ.

Congregational Covenant Litany – Please feel free to take a copy of the Congregational Covenant Litany that we read together a few weeks ago. As we continue to live into this covenant, and grow together in faith, may we remember and give thanks for the faithfulness of our God. God is faithful to the covenant made to us, his people. The copies of the covenant are on the table in the foyer.

Treasurer Transition – Effective immediately please direct all questions or correspondence about donations or expenses to our new treasurer, Becky Bender. Becky’s email address is treasurer@ezmennonite.ca.

Save the Dates – Vacation Bible School at EZMC will be held on July 7-11, 2025

Beyond our Church Community

MDS invites volunteers to help rebuild a flooded home in Constance Bay (near Ottawa, ON). Sign up for a week, beginning in March, to help rebuild a house along the Ottawa River. Contact Clara Flores at cflores@mds.org or 1 (866) 261-1274 for more information and to sign up.

Saturday January 25th 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

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

Sunday, January 26th 7 p.m. – Join choristers and instrumentalists for a 3-Chiors Mid-Winter Hymn Sing at Waterloo North Mennonite Church, hosted by the Inter-Mennonite Children’s Choir, Menno Singers and the newly-formed Menno Youth Ensemble. A variety of selections from the Voices Together hymnal and ample room for requests will be sure to warm your mid-winter spirits as we raise our voices in song. Admission is by donation.

Tuesday January 28th 9:30 a.m. New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale Feature Quilt Reveal, Mennonite Central Committtee, 50 Kent Ave., Kitchener.
Each year, a talented individual or team creates the feature quilt for the New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale. Feature quilts have depicted historical churches, the play of colour and light across fabric, a journey through Africa, among other innovative designs. On January 28, the curtain will be removed and the 2025 feature quilt will be revealed. Join us in the lower atrium at 50 Kent Ave, Kitchener or on the NHMRS Facebook page. Learn more at mcc.org/events.

Saturday February 1st MCEC Intercultural Volleyball Tournament, Kitchener. 

A day of intercultural, intergenerational volleyball, fellowship and fun with MCEC congregations. This event has been growing with more teams each year!

Register on our website. 

Silver Lake Mennonite Camp  (slmc.ca)

Summer Camp: Mark your calendar! Registration for overnight camp and day camp opens February 1 at 8am. Outtrip registration is already open – sign up before Jan 30 to get $100 off! Visit slmc.ca/summer-camp to have a look at the 2025 schedule. Excited to see your kids at Silver Lake this summer!

Winter and Spring Retreats registration now open. Go to slmc.ca/retreats for more info. Coming up soon: Women’s Retreat (Jan 31-Feb 2) – Come, experience the beauty of camp in winter. Be nourished by the relaxed pace, good food and meaningful conversation. Play in the snow, breathe deeply in yoga, read by the fire, cross country ski, go on a snowshoe hike through the woods. Reflection time led by Wendy Janzen. There are still spots available!

Interfaith Counselling Centre in New Hamburg invites you to the Hold Me Tight Couple’s Workshop. The Hold Me Tight Workshop is based on the award-winning and research-proven Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) approach developed by Dr. Sue Johnson. You will learn how to: Acknowledge strengths in your relationship. Identify negative communication patterns. Develop skills to de-escalate conflict in your relationship and heal from past relationship injuries. Dates: Friday, February 14th, 6pm-10pm Saturday, February 15th, 9am-5pm Sunday, February 16th, 1pm-5pm (See poster for further details)

Rockway Mennonite Collegiate is turning 80 this year! Join us on Friday, February 14, 2025 for our special 80th Anniversary Chapel with guest speakers Ray Boehm ‘84 and Mary Groh ‘49, followed by our Tea & Pastry Reception. That evening, celebrate the school you love with the people you love at our annual Soup Supper Fundraiser (featuring SIX scrumptious soups) and cheer on your favourites at the Alumni Sports Challenge. To RSVP and pre-purchase your soup or to learn more about Founders’ Day, visit: rockway.ca/events

Monday February 17th – Family Day Open House – From 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Hidden Acres is hosting a free Family Day Open House. Bring your family for a day of indoor and outdoor activities such as crafts, sledding, snowshoeing, pretzel making, games, and more! Bring a bag lunch or purchase a hot lunch for $6/person. Please RSVP to info@hiddenacres.ca. More information at hiddenacres.ca

Saturday February 22nd 5 p.m. Coldest Night of the Year Fundraiser for the Wilmot Family Resource Centre!  WFRC will be running this event in New Hamburg. CNOY is a walk to help raise awareness and funds in support of those who are experiencing hurt, homelessness, or hunger.  The Wilmot Family Resource Centre (175 Waterloo St.) provides these supports in Wilmot and Wellesley townships, including weekly food hampers, warm clothing, mental health supports, and much more! 

February 27th – March 1st  Rockway Mennonite Collegiate proudly presents their all-school musical, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.rockway.ca/events. We look forward to welcoming you and your family into Wonka’s world of Pure Imagination! 

Monday March 24th 6 p.m. Hope Starts at Home: An evening with Phyllis Webstad, at Bingemans Conference Centre, 425 Bingemans Centre Dr, Kitchener. Phyllis is the  founder and ambassador of the Orange Shirt Society. Phyllis will share her childhood of healing and reconciliation in Canada as we seek to restore justice, foster belonging and address poverty in Ontario. Funds raised at the event will supply MCC Ontario’s new meat cannery. To learn more and order your tickets, go to mcc.org/evening-with-phyllis-webstad.

Gathering 2025 – Mennonite Church Canada – July 2-5, 2025 in Kitchener/Waterloo.

This Gathering is shaping up to be an incredible experience with three unique avenues for engagement: 

1.Congregational Gathering: Join delegates and congregational representatives for inspiring sessions, worship, and connection.

2.Youth Gathering: A vibrant, energetic event designed specifically for youth, hosted on the University of Waterloo campus.

3.U30 Young Adult Gathering: Engage with peers through tailored events, including a special post-Gathering celebration at Hidden Acres!

Please see the bulletin board for more information about this opportunity.

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