Weekly Bulletins

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 69          Sunday January 4, 2026                      No. 1

Prelude/Accompanist: Heidi Wagler                Song Leader: Caleb Leis

Greeters: Dawn & Greg Zehr                           Worship Leader: Sheryl Leis

Audio/Visual: Greg Pye/Larry Kropf                 Offering: Mission Partners

Coffee: Megan MacDonald & Russ Schumm       Message: Pastors Ray & Mike         

Prelude                                     

Words of Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer

Songs of Gathering & Praise       VT #277 “As with Gladness”

                                                  VT #275 “O Beautiful Star of Bethlehem”

Offering – Mission Partners

Time with the Children             

Scripture Reading                      Isaiah 60:1-6; Matthew 12:1-12

Message                                     Sharing by Pastors Mike & Ray

Song of Response                       VT #274 “See Whose Glory Fills the Skies”

Sharing & Prayer of the Church                                         

Sending Song                              VT #240 “Joy to the World”        

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.

Please note that we are not having Sunday School classes today. 

This Coming Week

Tuesday January 6^th   

• 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Sewing Circle – Everyone is welcome to join us to knot comforters or quilt. 
• 9 a.m. Care Team Meeting
• 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. Holy Movement – New participants always welcome!

Wednesday January 7^th   

• E Z Play Group setup
• 7 p.m. Finance & Facility Meeting
• Glorify Rehearsal

Thursday January 8^th    

• 9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group 
• 12 p.m. High Noon Seniors Lunch at Grace United Church in Tavistock.

A homestyle lunch (Cost: Freewill offering) will be served followed by a program by The OMAS SISKONA (Grandmothers Together) of Kitchener-Waterloo is a group of creative, compassionate, dynamic women who joined the Stephen Lewis Foundation’s Grandmothers to Grandmothers Campaign in April 2008”

It is East Zorra’s turn to provide lunch. We need volunteers to help set up, serve and clean up. Please contact Connie Yantzi, Dawn Bender or Linda Schumm.

• 7:30 p.m. Ladies Bible Study meets in the MYF room

Friday January 9^th

• 7 p.m MYF – Games Night at church

Next Sunday – January 18, 2026

Prelude/Accompanist: Glorify                        Song Leader: Glorify

Greeters: Mike Williamson & Brady Sell Worship Leader: Dawn Bender

Audio/Visual: Drystan Bender/Brian Wagler     Offering: MCEC & MC Canada

Coffee: Brett Zehr & Ryan Wagler                   Message: Pastor Mike

EZMC Announcements

On Sunday afternoon January 18, East Zorra is scheduled to lead the services at peopleCare (at 1:30 PM) and The Maples (at 2:30 PM). If you would be available to help sing or read scripture at these services please speak to Pastor Ray

📚 The Winter Great Big Read is Returning This January 2026 📚

We’re excited to announce our next read: Get a Hold of Yourself: Embracing Authenticity in a Complicated World by Troy D. Watson (Foreword by Betty Pries). 

In this thoughtful and accessible book, Pastor Troy Watson explores how Jesus’ teachings help us face life’s contradictions—teaching us to embrace who we truly are as both flawed and beloved. Through engaging reflection and theological insight, we’ll discover how authenticity and faith intersect in our everyday lives.  

✨ This book promises great group discussion — offering rich topics about identity, grace, and living more fully in faith. 

We will gather once a month (beginning on January 29^th) and then the fourth Thursday of every month at 6:00pm for Pizza followed by conversation.

Join us as we dig in and grow together!

You can sign-up to pre-order the book using the sheet on the bulletin board OR e-mailing Pastor Mike at mike@ezmennonite.ca

Beyond Our Church Community

Help needed to sew comforter fabric!
MCC Hub, 65 Heritage Dr., New Hamburg
Due to building construction, we are unable to host our annual comforter knotting blitz, the Great Winter Warm-up. We look forward to hosting again in our new, refreshed space! However, we received a donation of matched tops and backs that require extra fabric to be sewn on the back to meet our partner’s requests. Our volunteers have been working through them, but we need some help! If you or your group would like to help, please contact Alecia Weber (aleciaweber@mcco.ca) or stop by the MCC Hub (65 Heritage Dr., New Hamburg) to pick some up while supplies last.

Turn Time into Meals: Group Canning at MCC Material Resources
MCC Material Resources (65 Heritage Dr., New Hamburg) is inviting workplace, church, and community groups to can nutritious food for communities in need. Groups are asked to contribute $6.50 per can to cover costs and keep this vital work going. Flexible scheduling is available. A typical daily output can range from 350–1,200 cans. Learn more or book a canning date today! Contact Reid Kennel at reidkennel@mcco.ca or by calling 226-338-4956.

New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale Feature Quilt Reveal
Tuesday January 27, 2026 at 9:30 a.m., MCC, 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 27, 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.

Sign up to sing with the Mennonite Mass Choir as we join Menno Singers to perform Johannes Brahm’s Schicksalslied (Song of Destiny) and Karl Jenken’s The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at Centre in the Square with soloists and members of the Kitchener Waterloo Symphony, conducted by Brandon Leis. Rehearsals begin on Monday nights on February 23, 2026. www.mennosingers.com

Tickets are on sale for Rockway Mennonite Collegiate’s grade 7&8 production of Humpty-Dumpty is missing!  They will make great last minute Christmas gifts!! Visit rockway.ca/events for a show synopsis and to buy your tickets for this comedy whodunit. Show dates: March 5 & 6, 2026 

Silver Lake Mennonite Camp | (slmc.ca) 

Summer Camp Registration: Outtrip (canoe or hike) registration opens on January 6 at 9am. All other camps and day camps open on February 2 at 7am. Mark your calendars and visit our camp webpages for full summer schedule and program descriptions… slmc.ca/summer-camp

Retreat Registrations: 2026 Retreat registration is now open! For more information and full list, visit slmc.ca/retreats . Here are a few retreats coming up this winter:

Women’s Retreat (Jan 30-Feb 1): Wendy Janzen is returning to lead this incredible weekend of rest, relaxation and connection.

Winter Wanders (Feb 24-26): Three days of adventuring in the Bruce Peninsula while staying at camp! Skiing, snowshoeing or hiking planned at different trails. Food and accommodations included.

Winter Camp for Grown-Ups (Feb 27-Mar 1): This weekend is for 20 & 30 somethings who want to get away on a low-key, relaxing retreat. A collaborative project between PiE (Pastors in Exile) and SLMC.

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 68          Sunday December 28, 2025                      No. 52

Prelude/Accompanist: Katie Wagler; Connie Yantzi; Heidi Wagler; Bethany Zehr

Song Leader: Lindsay Zehr                              Worship Leader: Pastor Ray

Greeters: Kristen & Daryl Cressman                Offering: Where needed most         

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

Prelude                                     

Katie/Choir

“Mary’s Baby”/”Away in a Manger”

“Lullay, Thou Tiny Child”

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer

Carol Singing                                       

VT#249 “Angels We Have Heard on High”

VT #267 “What Child is This?”

VT #244 “Silent Night, Holy Night”

Offering Where Needed Most

Choir            “Amid the Cold of Winter”

Scripture Reading                      John 1:1-14

Carol Singing                                       

VT#241 “O Come, All Ye Faithful”

VT #247 “Hark! the Herald Angels Sing”

VT #275 “O Beautiful Star of Bethlehem”

Time with the Children     Sheryl Leis

Scripture Reading                      Luke 2:25-38

Prayer of the Church                 Pastor Mike

Choir                                         

“Behold that Star”

Carol Singing                                       

VT #276 “Solemn Stillness, Weary Streets”

VT #252 “Go Tell It on the Mountain”

Benediction

This morning we welcome Cassel Mennonite and Tavistock Mennonite churches to our worship service.

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.

Please note that we are not having Sunday School classes today. 

This Coming Week

Wednesday December 31^st       

• 7 – 10 p.m.(?):  Are you looking for something fun to do on New Year’s Eve? 

All ages are welcome to come to church for an informal evening of games and fellowship! Bring along your favourite games and finger foods to share.  Hot/cold drinks will be provided. Any questions, speak to Marv or Janet Yantzi.  Hope to see you there!

Next Sunday – January 4, 2026

Greeters: Dawn & Greg Zehr                           Worship Leader: Sheryl Leis

Audio/Visual: Greg Pye/Larry Kropf                 Offering: Mission Partners

Coffee: Megan MacDonald & Russ Schumm       Message: Pastors Ray & Mike         

EZMC Announcements

Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Christmas Giving Project.

The Worship Committee invites you to bring coins and bills to help support our MCC Christmas 2025 Giving Project. This year we will help purchase ducks to support families around the globe. Whether they’re waddling, swimming or flying, ducks help families put dreams into motion. These adaptable creatures provide protein and extra income streams to farmers like Nikhil Chandra Mondol of Bangladesh. Each week as the children come to Children’s Time they will move through the congregation to collect coins. Children who want to help collect will receive a cup as they come into church. $15 purchases one duck for a family in need. Thank you for your support!

📚 The Winter Great Big Read is Returning This January 2026 📚

We’re excited to announce our next read: Get a Hold of Yourself: Embracing Authenticity in a Complicated World by Troy D. Watson (Foreword by Betty Pries). 

In this thoughtful and accessible book, Pastor Troy Watson explores how Jesus’ teachings help us face life’s contradictions—teaching us to embrace who we truly are as both flawed and beloved. Through engaging reflection and theological insight, we’ll discover how authenticity and faith intersect in our everyday lives.  

✨ This book promises great group discussion — offering rich topics about identity, grace, and living more fully in faith. 

We will gather once a month on the fourth Thursday of every month at 6:00pm for Pizza followed by conversation.

Join us as we dig in and grow together!

You can sign-up to pre-order the book using the sheet on the bulletin board OR e-mailing Pastor Mike at mike@ezmennonite.ca

Beyond Our Church Community

Help needed to sew comforter fabric!
MCC Hub, 65 Heritage Dr., New Hamburg
Due to building construction, we are unable to host our annual comforter knotting blitz, the Great Winter Warm-up. We look forward to hosting again in our new, refreshed space! However, we received a donation of matched tops and backs that require extra fabric to be sewn on the back to meet our partner’s requests. Our volunteers have been working through them, but we need some help! If you or your group would like to help, please contact Alecia Weber (aleciaweber@mcco.ca) or stop by the MCC Hub (65 Heritage Dr., New Hamburg) to pick some up while supplies last.

Give gifts of comfort and joy this Christmas
This Christmas season, choose a gift that will honour your loved ones and change lives across the globe. MCC’s Christmas Giving Guide lets you celebrate what you hold dear about your loved ones, from the art lover to the gardener. By helping people build skills, grow food or meet basic needs, the impact of your generosity is a cause for celebration long after the lights and tree are taken down. Pick up a gift catalogue at church (on the table in the sanctuary foyer), a local MCC Thrift Shop or give online at mcc.org/Christmas.  

Interfaith Counselling Centre Calendar Fundraiser – Help Us Bring Hope and Healing to Our Community. We’re inviting you to support the Interfaith Counselling Centre through our Calendar Fundraiser—a beautiful way to give back while celebrating the seasons of life and wellness. Each calendar features inspiring artwork and messages that reflect the heart of our mission: to provide accessible, compassionate counselling to those in need. Your purchase directly supports our programs and helps ensure that no one in our community is left without support during difficult times.

Calendars are available at our office and select community locations. You can also order online at interfaithcounselling.ca or by calling (519) 662-3092.

Give the gift of Mental Health!

Support Interfaith Counselling Services as we work to ensure all in Wilmot and surrounding Rural Communities have access to professional counselling services. 

Donations can be made through: e transfer to admin@interfaithcounselling.ca; 

Canada Helps through our website, www.interfaithcounselling.ca;   

Mailing or dropping off a cheque at the office. Thank you!

Rockway Mennonite Collegiate thanks you for supporting us this school year! Whether it was through prayer, a financial contribution or by volunteering at or attending an event, your engagement was (is) appreciated. As we come to the end of the year, we welcome your contributions to help raise funds for our Go Rockway! Annual Fund and Tuition Assistance Program. Learn more at rockway.ca/donate.

Turn Time into Meals: Group Canning at MCC Material Resources
MCC Material Resources (65 Heritage Dr., New Hamburg) is inviting workplace, church, and community groups to can nutritious food for communities in need. Groups are asked to contribute $6.50 per can to cover costs and keep this vital work going. Flexible scheduling is available. A typical daily output can range from 350–1,200 cans. Learn more or book a canning date today! Contact Reid Kennel at reidkennel@mcco.ca or by calling 226-338-4956.

Would you help us support disaster survivors? There are many more people who need to be reminded there still good things and good people in the world—people Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) wants to help.

To donate, go to mds.org/donate-canada/. Your donation can help us continue to do that for more people who have lost their homes to devastating disasters. Thank you for your support! 

New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale Feature Quilt Reveal
Tuesday January 27, 2026 at 9:30 a.m., MCC, 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 27, 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.

Sign up to sing with the Mennonite Mass Choir as we join Menno Singers to perform Johannes Brahm’s Schicksalslied (Song of Destiny) and Karl Jenken’s The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at Centre in the Square with soloists and members of the Kitchener Waterloo Symphony, conducted by Brandon Leis. Rehearsals begin on Monday nights on February 23, 2026. www.mennosingers.com

Tickets are on sale for Rockway Mennonite Collegiate’s grade 7&8 production of Humpty-Dumpty is missing!  They will make great last minute Christmas gifts!! Visit rockway.ca/events for a show synopsis and to buy your tickets for this comedy whodunit. Show dates: March 5 & 6, 2026 

Christmas Eve Service

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Wednesday December 24, 2025

7 p.m.

A Celebration of Hope, Love, Joy and Peace

A Christmas Eve Candlelight Service

Welcome to our Christmas Eve Service!

As you arrived this evening you should have received a candle that we will invite you to light later in the service.

As you hear the Christmas story through scripture, candle lighting, prayer, song and message may you experience the presence of Jesus who lives among us as Saviour and Lord, as source of hope, love, joy and peace.

Words of Welcome  

Light the Christ Candle

Opening Prayer

Songs: VT 241 “O Come, All Ye Faithful”

VT 245 “O Little Town of Bethlehem”

Reading: Hope for Change to Come (Isaiah 42:1-10)

Hope Candle lighting and Prayer   

Song: VT 218 “Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus”

Reading: Love for each other along the way (Luke 1:26-38, Matthew 1:18-24)

Love Candle lighting and Prayer

Song: VT 248 “It Came upon a Midnight Clear”

Reading: Joy fulfilled (Luke 2:1-20)

Song: VT 249 “Angels We Have Heard on High”

Joy Candle lighting and Prayer

Choir: “Mary’s Baby”/”Away in a Manger”

Reading: Peace for Jealousy and Rage of the world (Matthew 2:1-5, 7-18)

Choir:  “Lullay, Thou Tiny Child”

Peace Candle lighting and Prayer

Choir: “Amid the Cold of Winter”/

“Lo, How a Rose e’re Blooming”

Offering: Our offering this evening will go toRay of Hope and Wilmot Family Resource Centre

Meditation

Song: VT 244 “Silent Night”

The Lighting of the congregational candles will happen as we sing Silent Night

Choir: Behold that Star

Closing Prayer and Benediction

Sending Songs:

VT 275 “O Beautiful Star of Bethlehem”

VT 240 “Joy to the World”

Postlude

Participants in leading worship

Prelude: Bethany Zehr                   

Worship Leader: Pastor Ray

Accompanist: Heidi Wagler            

Song Leader: Susan Schmitz

Readers: Janice Gingerich, Marlow Gingerich, and Kurtis Waymouth

Candle Lighting and Prayers: Bevin Witmer

Choir Members:

Jeanette Bender, Graycelyn Bender, Kim Gruber

Brandy Sell, Petra Williamson, Rebekah Williamson

Connie Yantzi, Laurie Yantzi, Lisa Zehr, Alexis Leis

Dawn Bender, Fayth Bender, Michaiah Bender,

Susan Schmitz, Linda Schumm, Heidi Wagler,

Katie Wagler, Dawn Zehr, Marilyn Zehr, Bethany Zehr

Galen Leis, Rick Roes, Erma Repei, Howard Ropp,

Myron Ruby, Brian Wagler

Gord Bender, Larry Bearinger, Caleb Leis,

Merv Ropp, Duane Swartzentruber

Meditation: Pastor Mike

Audio and Visuals: Dathan Bender & Larry Kropf

Thank you to our ushers and to each of you who participated in the planning, set up and leading through our service this evening.

Merry Christmas to all! May the hope, love, joy and peace of Jesus live within you and flow from you as light to the world.

This service is an adaptation of a Candlelight Service written by Sara Erb

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 68              Sunday December 21, 2025                      No. 51

Song Leader: Glorify                                                Worship Leader: JCET

Greeters: Susan & Ray Martin                                    Offering: Leadership         

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

Prelude                            Rebekah Williamson, Leah Mogk, Ella & Hannah Witzel

Welcome                          Bauer Yantzi & Garner Zehr & Hudson Leis

Preschool/JK/SK Singing  

“Happy Birthday to You”

“Away in a Manger”

“There was a Little Baby”

Song                                 “O Beautiful Star”(VT #275)

Advent Candles                Emmett Wiegand

Lighting of Advent Candles Norah Wagler, Mariah Mogk, Lake Barron, Maynard Klein

Song                                 “Love Came Down at Christmas” (VT #255)

Skit of Christmas Story

“High King of Heaven”

“Angels We Have Heard on High” (VT #249)

Song                                 “On Christmas Eve in Bethlehem”

Prayer & Blessing of Offering     Rowan Yantzi & Ben Witzel

Offering Designation        Leadership

Offertory                          Leah Mogk, Hannah Witzel

Prayer and Sharing           Pastor Mike 

Benediction/Instructions for basement

Benediction                      Violet & Noah Waymouth

Announcements               Ila Schumm 

Song                                 “Joy to the World”

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.

Please note that we are not having Sunday School classes today. Everyone is invited  downstairs for refreshments.

This Coming Week

Monday December 22^nd  

• 7 – 8 p.m. Christmas Choir practice

Tuesday December 23^rd     

• 9 a.m. All items for the Sunday December 28^th bulletin are due to the church office. Thanks so much.

Wednesday December 24^th      

• 7 p.m. Christmas Eve Service at EZMC.

Christmas Eve Service – 7 p.m.

Prelude: Bethany Zehr                                    Song Leader: Susan Schmitz

Accompanist/Offertory: Heidi Wagler             Worship Leaders: Pastor Ray Audio/Visual: Dathan Bender/Larry Kropf        Meditation: Pastor Mike

Our offering this evening will go to Ray of Hope and Wilmot Family Resource Centre

Next Sunday – December 28, 2025

Prelude/Accompanist:                          Song Leader: Lindsay Zehr

Greeters: Kristen & Daryl Cressman                Worship Leader: Pastor Ray

Audio/Visual: Todd Bender/Brian Wagler         Offering: Where needed most

Coffee: Gloria & Merv Ropp                            

Cassel Mennonite and Tavistock Mennonite will join us for this service.

Daily Bible Readings for December 22-26:

Monday: Isaiah 9:1-7                   Thursday: Luke 2:1-20

Tuesday: Psalm 96                       Friday: John 1:1-18

Wednesday: Titus 2:11-14

EZMC Announcements

Please note that all items for the Sunday December 28^th bulletin are due to the church office by 9 a.m. on Tuesday December 23^rd.

Today you will find the new Church Directory in your mailbox. If you have a family member that will not be able to get to church, and you will see them over the holidays, please take their mail along. There are extra copies of the directory on the bottom row for those that would like one and don’t have a church mailbox.

Please contact Lisa, Office Administrator, if your church directory has any missing pages or duplicate pages or there are any omissions/errors in your household listing. 

Thanks so much.

The Church Ministry Council Minutes (Dec 3/25 meeting) were sent on Fri Dec 19/25 via email, along with the Kitchen Renovation discussion (Nov 30/25) and the Pastoral Intern Report by Alexis Leis. If you would like a paper copy to read it is available on the bottom row of church mailboxes. 

Wednesday, December 31st, 7:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.(?):  Are you looking for something fun to do on New Year’s Eve? All ages are welcome to come to church for an informal evening of games and fellowship! Bring along your favourite games and finger foods to share.  Hot/cold drinks will be provided.

Any questions, speak to Marv or Janet Yantzi.  Hope to see you there!

Financial update as of Dec 17/25 

As we near the end of 2025, we thank you all for your generous giving throughout this year.  We invite your prayers and donations as we seek to meet remaining Commitments and Expenses for 2025. 

Summary of remaining 2025 External Commitments and expected Expenses

2025 External Commitments – $174,000

External Commitments paid to date (Dec 17th) – $85,216

External Commitments remaining – $88,784

Approx Expenses for remainder of 2025 – $17,000

Total External Commitments/Expenses yet to be covered – $105,784 (as of December 17th, 2025)

Please submit any 2025 expenses you have to Becky as soon as possible. Thank you. 

📚 The Winter Great Big Read is Returning This January 2026 📚

We’re excited to announce our next read: Get a Hold of Yourself: Embracing Authenticity in a Complicated World by Troy D. Watson (Foreword by Betty Pries). 

In this thoughtful and accessible book, Pastor Troy Watson explores how Jesus’ teachings help us face life’s contradictions—teaching us to embrace who we truly are as both flawed and beloved. Through engaging reflection and theological insight, we’ll discover how authenticity and faith intersect in our everyday lives.  

✨ This book promises great group discussion — offering rich topics about identity, grace, and living more fully in faith. 

We will gather once a month on the fourth Thursday of every month at 6:00pm for Pizza followed by conversation.

Join us as we dig in and grow together!

You can sign-up to pre-order the book using the sheet on the bulletin board OR e-mailing Pastor Mike at mike@ezmennonite.ca

The 2026 Camp Subsidy Form is now available. You can complete it 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 – Dawn Bender or Caleb Leis.

Beyond Our Church Community

Help needed to sew comforter fabric!
MCC Hub, 65 Heritage Dr., New Hamburg
Due to building construction, we are unable to host our annual comforter knotting blitz, the Great Winter Warm-up. We look forward to hosting again in our new, refreshed space! However, we received a donation of matched tops and backs that require extra fabric to be sewn on the back to meet our partner’s requests. Our volunteers have been working through them, but we need some help! If you or your group would like to help, please contact Alecia Weber (aleciaweber@mcco.ca) or stop by the MCC Hub (65 Heritage Dr., New Hamburg) to pick some up while supplies last.

Best Christmas Pageant Ever @ Tavistock Mennonite Church

You are invited to TMC’s production of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Our main showing is on Dec 24th @ 7pm. We recognize that many people have longstanding traditions on Christmas Eve, so we will also be having an open dress rehearsal on Dec 23rd @ 7pm. Come and enjoy some Christmas carols amidst this intergenerational performance. No cost, no tickets, no RSVP, just show up!

The December edition of On the Level is now available from Mennonite Disaster Service. In this edition, you’ll read about our November all-unit gathering in Calgary. It was good to be together and collaborate on the future of MDS. There is also a new story about Dwayne Stewart who lost his home to the Barrington Lake fire in 2023. This fall, MDS volunteers were able to build him a new house. When ask about it, Dwayne said, “I still don’t realize it’s happening.”

Read On the Level: https://conta.cc/4rYv4RW

Give gifts of comfort and joy this Christmas
This Christmas season, choose a gift that will honour your loved ones and change lives across the globe. MCC’s Christmas Giving Guide lets you celebrate what you hold dear about your loved ones, from the art lover to the gardener. By helping people build skills, grow food or meet basic needs, the impact of your generosity is a cause for celebration long after the lights and tree are taken down. Pick up a gift catalogue at church (on the table in the sanctuary foyer), a local MCC Thrift Shop or give online at mcc.org/Christmas.  

Interfaith Counselling Centre Calendar Fundraiser – Help Us Bring Hope and Healing to Our Community. We’re inviting you to support the Interfaith Counselling Centre through our Calendar Fundraiser—a beautiful way to give back while celebrating the seasons of life and wellness. Each calendar features inspiring artwork and messages that reflect the heart of our mission: to provide accessible, compassionate counselling to those in need. Your purchase directly supports our programs and helps ensure that no one in our community is left without support during difficult times.

Calendars are available at our office and select community locations. You can also order online at interfaithcounselling.ca or by calling (519) 662-3092.

Give the gift of Mental Health!

Support Interfaith Counselling Services as we work to ensure all in Wilmot and surrounding Rural Communities have access to professional counselling services. 

Donations can be made through: e transfer to admin@interfaithcounselling.ca; 

Canada Helps through our website, www.interfaithcounselling.ca;   

Mailing or dropping off a cheque at the office. Thank you!

Rockway Mennonite Collegiate thanks you for supporting us this school year! Whether it was through prayer, a financial contribution or by volunteering at or attending an event, your engagement was (is) appreciated. As we come to the end of the year, we welcome your contributions to help raise funds for our Go Rockway! Annual Fund and Tuition Assistance Program. Learn more at rockway.ca/donate.

Turn Time into Meals: Group Canning at MCC Material Resources
MCC Material Resources (65 Heritage Dr., New Hamburg) is inviting workplace, church, and community groups to can nutritious food for communities in need. Groups are asked to contribute $6.50 per can to cover costs and keep this vital work going. Flexible scheduling is available. A typical daily output can range from 350–1,200 cans. Learn more or book a canning date today! Contact Reid Kennel at reidkennel@mcco.ca or by calling 226-338-4956.

Would you help us support disaster survivors? There are many more people who need to be reminded there still good things and good people in the world—people Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) wants to help.

To donate, go to mds.org/donate-canada/. Your donation can help us continue to do that for more people who have lost their homes to devastating disasters. Thank you for your support! 

New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale Feature Quilt Reveal
Tuesday January 27, 2026 at 9:30 a.m., MCC, 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 27, 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.

Sign up to sing with the Mennonite Mass Choir as we join Menno Singers to perform Johannes Brahm’s Schicksalslied (Song of Destiny) and Karl Jenken’s The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at Centre in the Square with soloists and members of the Kitchener Waterloo Symphony, conducted by Brandon Leis. Rehearsals begin on Monday nights on February 23, 2026. www.mennosingers.com

Tickets are on sale for Rockway Mennonite Collegiate’s grade 7&8 production of Humpty-Dumpty is missing!  They will make great last minute Christmas gifts!! Visit rockway.ca/events for a show synopsis and to buy your tickets for this comedy whodunit. Show dates: March 5 & 6, 2026 

Saturday December 13^th – Christmas Carolling Reminder.

Please join us to sing at 10:30 am beside the post office in Downtown Tavistock. Carol sheets will be provided. All ages welcome!

East Zorra Mennonite Church

Volume 68          Sunday December 14, 2025                      No. 50

Prelude/Accompanist: Laurie Yantzi               Song Leader: Lindsay Zehr

Greeters: Fern & Galen Leis                            Worship Leader: Marlow Gingerich

Audio/Visual: Greg Pye/Larry Kropf                 Offering: MCEC & MC Canada

Coffee: Michelle & Brad Brenneman                Message: Pastor Mike

Prelude                                     

Welcome & Announcements

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer

Advent Candle Lighting

Songs of Gathering & Praise               

VT #215 “O, How Shall I Receive Thee”                                                   

VT #221 “The Angel Gabriel Called Mary Blessed”

Offering – Mennonite Church Eastern Canada & Mennonite Church Canada

Children will collect the MCC Giving Project offering on their way to the Children’s time.

Time with the Children              Alexis Leis                                           

Following Children’s Time all children in Grades 1-8, that are involved in the Children’s Christmas Program, are dismissed to the blue assembly room for the remainder of the service

Scripture Reading                      Luke 1:26-38, 46-55

Message There’s Something about Mary Pastor Mike                                

Song of Response                       VT #621 “My Hope Is Built”         

Prayer of the Church                           Pastor Ray                                 

Sending Songs                                      VT #241 “O Come, All Ye Faithful”

                                                  VT #240 “Joy to the World”        

Benediction

Postlude

During Children’s Time each week through Advent the children will receive 2 or 3 pages of the “Celebrate Jesus!” Advent and Christmas Kit. This kit is easy-to-use and perfect for families looking to deepen their faith during the Advent and Christmas seasons. Filled with engaging activities for families, this kit invites everyone to explore the true meaning of Christmas together. If you know you will miss a Sunday, extra pages will be placed on the table in the foyer.

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.

4 – 5 p.m. Christmas Choir Practice

This Coming Week

Monday December 15^th 

• 7 p.m. Walking Club – Meet at the Memorial Hall Tavistock. Come enjoy Christmas lights while getting some exercise!  
• 7 – 8 p.m. Christmas Choir practice

Tuesday December 16^th    

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

Wednesday December 17^th       

• E Z Play Group setup
• 7:30 p.m. Women’s Bible Study in the MYF room

Thursday December 18^th   

• 9:30 – 11 a.m. E Z Play Group

Saturday December 20^th

• Private Party

Next Sunday – December 21, 2025

4^th Sunday of Advent

Children’s Christmas Program

Prelude: Brandy Sell/Rebekah Williamson/Hannah Witzel    Song Leader: Glorify

Greeters: Susan & Ray Martin                                              Worship Leader: JCET

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

Coffee: Janet & Marv Yantzi                           

Please note that we will not be Sunday School classes on this day.

12 p.m. Private Party

Daily Bible Readings for December 15-19

Monday: Isaiah 7:10-17

Tuesday: Psalm 80

Wednesday: Romans 1:1-7

Thursday: Matthew 1:18-25

          Friday: Galatians 4:1-7

EZMC Announcements

Financial update as of Dec 11/25 

As we near the end of 2025, we thank you all for your generous giving throughout this year.  We invite your prayers and donations as we seek to meet remaining Commitments and Expenses for 2025. 

Summary of remaining 2025 External Commitments and expected Expenses

2025 External Commitments – $174,000

External Commitments paid to date (Dec 1st) – $85,216

External Commitments remaining – $88,784

Approx Expenses for remainder of 2025 – $32,000 

Total External Commitments/Expenses yet to be covered – $120,784 (as of December 11th, 2025)

Please submit any 2025 expenses you have to Becky as soon as possible. Thank you. 

Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Christmas Giving Project.

The Worship Committee invites you to bring coins and bills to help support our MCC Christmas 2025 Giving Project. This year we will help purchase ducks to support families around the globe. Whether they’re waddling, swimming or flying, ducks help families put dreams into motion. These adaptable creatures provide protein and extra income streams to farmers like Nikhil Chandra Mondol of Bangladesh. Each week as the children come to Children’s Time they will move through the congregation to collect coins. Children who want to help collect will receive a cup as they come into church. $15 purchases one duck for a family in need.  Thank you for your support!

Children will also receive a coloring page on Sunday to colour 3 ducks. Through the rest of December these ducks will be hung on the Christmas Tree (one for each $15 raised) at the front of the church.  

Upcoming Christmas Choir Practice Dates:

Sunday December 14 from 4-5 pm

Monday December 15 from 7-8 pm

Monday December 22 from 7-8 pm

Wednesday December 24^th – 7 p.m. Christmas Eve Service at EZMC

📚 The Winter Great Big Read is Returning This January 2026 📚

We’re excited to announce our next read: Get a Hold of Yourself: Embracing Authenticity in a Complicated World by Troy D. Watson (Foreword by Betty Pries). 

In this thoughtful and accessible book, Pastor Troy Watson explores how Jesus’ teachings help us face life’s contradictions—teaching us to embrace who we truly are as both flawed and beloved. Through engaging reflection and theological insight, we’ll discover how authenticity and faith intersect in our everyday lives.  

✨ This book promises great group discussion — offering rich topics about identity, grace, and living more fully in faith. 

We will gather once a month on the fourth Thursday of every month at 6:00pm for Pizza followed by conversation.

Join us as we dig in and grow together!

You can sign-up to pre-order the book using the sheet on the bulletin board OR e-mailing Pastor Mike at mike@ezmennonite.ca

The 2026 Camp Subsidy Form is now available. You can complete it 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 – Dawn Bender or Caleb Leis.

Beyond Our Church Community

Sunday December 14^th A LYNC Christmas 2 – 4:30 p.m. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. at Steinmann Mennonite Church. Come join us for an amazing multimedia, light, and music extravaganza as we celebrate Christmas with our community. Enjoy the sights and sounds of Christmas with Juneyt an award winning, world renowned musician and flamenco and Nuevo-flamenco guitarist, Anat Hector one of KW’s finest singer/pianist, Lisa Hagen and the Local Vocals, Derek Goupil and the Hillview Band present “let it be Christmas, A multimedia musical presentation of the Christmas story with the music of the Beatles. The event is free but guests are encouraged to make a donation in support of LYNC’s Millblock Community Development. Tickets are free through Eventbrite.  https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/a-lync-christmas-tickets-1720500044949?aff=oddtdtcreator

Best Christmas Pageant Ever @ Tavistock Mennonite Church

You are invited to TMC’s production of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Our main showing is on Dec 24th @ 7pm. We recognize that many people have longstanding traditions on Christmas Eve, so we will also be having an open dress rehearsal on Dec 23rd @ 7pm. Come and enjoy some Christmas carols amidst this intergenerational performance. No cost, no tickets, no RSVP, just show up!

Rockway Mennonite Collegiate thanks you for supporting us this school year! Whether it was through prayer, a financial contribution or by volunteering at or attending an event, your engagement was (is) appreciated. As we come to the end of the year, we welcome your contributions to help raise funds for our Go Rockway! Annual Fund and Tuition Assistance Program. Learn more at rockway.ca/donate.

Give gifts of comfort and joy this Christmas
This Christmas season, choose a gift that will honour your loved ones and change lives across the globe. MCC’s Christmas Giving Guide lets you celebrate what you hold dear about your loved ones, from the art lover to the gardener. By helping people build skills, grow food or meet basic needs, the impact of your generosity is a cause for celebration long after the lights and tree are taken down. Pick up a gift catalogue at church (on the table in the sanctuary foyer), a local MCC Thrift Shop or give online at mcc.org/Christmas.  

Interfaith Counselling Centre Calendar Fundraiser – Help Us Bring Hope and Healing to Our Community. This October, we’re inviting you to support the Interfaith Counselling Centre through our Calendar Fundraiser—a beautiful way to give back while celebrating the seasons of life and wellness. Each calendar features inspiring artwork and messages that reflect the heart of our mission: to provide accessible, compassionate counselling to those in need. Your purchase directly supports our programs and helps ensure that no one in our community is left without support during difficult times.

Calendars are available at our office and select community locations. You can also order online at interfaithcounselling.ca or by calling (519) 662-3092.

Give the gift of Mental Health!

Support Interfaith Counselling Services as we work to ensure all in Wilmot and surrounding Rural Communities have access to professional counselling services. 

Donations can be made through: e transfer to admin@interfaithcounselling.ca; 

Canada Helps through our website, www.interfaithcounselling.ca;   

Mailing or dropping off a cheque at the office. Thank you!

Turn Time into Meals: Group Canning at MCC Material Resources
MCC Material Resources (65 Heritage Dr., New Hamburg) is inviting workplace, church, and community groups to can nutritious food for communities in need. Groups are asked to contribute $6.50 per can to cover costs and keep this vital work going. Flexible scheduling is available. A typical daily output can range from 350–1,200 cans. Learn more or book a canning date today! Contact Reid Kennel at reidkennel@mcco.ca or by calling 226-338-4956.

Would you help us support disaster survivors? There are many more people who need to be reminded there still good things and good people in the world—people Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) wants to help.

To donate, go to mds.org/donate-canada/. Your donation can help us continue to do that for more people who have lost their homes to devastating disasters. Thank you for your support! 

Save the Date! Saturday January 31^st – Great Winter Warm Up Quilting Blitz (65 Heritage Dr., New Hamburg)

Sign up to sing with the Mennonite Mass Choir as we join Menno Singers to perform Johannes Brahm’s Schicksalslied (Song of Destiny) and Karl Jenken’s The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at Centre in the Square with soloists and members of the Kitchener Waterloo Symphony, conducted by Brandon Leis. Rehearsals begin on Monday nights on February 23, 2026. www.mennosingers.com

Tickets are on sale for Rockway Mennonite Collegiate’s grade 7&8 production of Humpty-Dumpty is missing!  They will make great last minute Christmas gifts!! Visit rockway.ca/events for a show synopsis and to buy your tickets for this comedy whodunit. Show dates: March 5 &  6, 2026