From the Pastors
         Next week there will be a congregational meetingan important oneand I will not be there. I'm missing it, not because I don't think it's important, but because I'll be attending an event at Bluffton College in which our daughter Hannah is involved. I struggled in deciding what to do next week: miss Hannah's play? miss the congregational meeting? Neither seemed like a good option.
         I talked to Dan about the decision. ``What makes you most worried about missing the meeting?'' he asked. I replied what I truly believe: that my presence or absence at the meeting would likely make little difference to its outcome. I trust the collective wisdom of this congregation! What I worried about, I said, was that my absence would somehow suggest non-verbally that congregational meetings just aren't all that important. And they really are.
         So, I'm writing to you to let you know these things. Congregational meetings are important. This one is important, especially as we look toward the future of our congregation. Your presence at the meetings is important. But my daughter and family are important, too, and so I will be praying for you as we travel east to Bluffton.       Anita Kehr

This Week
Monday BWIF, 9:30 a.m. at Ruth Brenneman's.
Monday Fellowship and Caring Commission, 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday MYF, 7:00 p.m.
Thursday Stewardship and Finance Commission, 7:15 p.m.









From the Elders
Here is our agenda for the February 15 congregational meeting . A packet of material in your mailboxes includes a number of documents that we will be discussing on that day.
1.       Approve minutes of the November 16 congregational meeting.
2.       Mission and building discernment:
a.       Review our process to date, celebrating God's work among us so far!
b.       Present the proposed process for discerning our mission and our building and space needs.
c.       Discuss the job description for a building/land use committee.
d.       Act on forming a building/land use committee.
e.       Receive nominations for choosing members of a building/land use committee.
f.       Introduce the mission document.
3.       Announce the members of the 25 ^th anniversary planning group.     (continued on next page)
4.       Discuss and act on the Mission Commission's proposal to distribute the surplus funds from the 2002-2003 fiscal year.
5.       Discuss and act on the revision of the ``Guidelines for the Discretionary Community Caring Fund.''
6.       Offer counsel to the Fellowship and Caring Commission about coffee and coffee-making.

Plan to stay for the fellowship meal that will precede the congregational meeting. If you belong to a household of more than one person, please bring both a main dish and either a salad or dessert, as well as your table service. Otherwise bring a dish to share and your table service.

Announcements
BAMF News        
         If you would be able to help move Goldie Hostetler's household items from storage to the Fairgrounds this coming Friday, February 13 , please contact Tim Thorne!

         A crew will be painting the front wall of the sanctuary this week. Watch for the difference next Sunday morning!

         Later this month, a baptism exploration class will begin to meet on Sunday afternoons. If you are interested in learning more about the class and its content or about baptism in general, please see Dan or Anita soon.

         Goshen Interfaith Hospitality Network committee is in need of a small group or two persons willing to commit to making the evening meal on Fridays and being hosts from 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. each week of GIHN. GIHN is when we host homeless guests about once each quarter. The dates for this year are these Fridays: March 26, June 18, September 10, and December 3. Please see Genie Kehr or e-mail her at jesskehrjuno.com if you can help.

        The MMA Sharing Funds provided $4,253.46 in matching funds to support special needs in our church last year. Darin Short serves as the MMA advocate in our congregation. Please contact him for more information.
         Check the Mission/Peace & Justice bulletin board or table for:
·         an article ``From Those Who Serve'' by Erika Smoker, daughter of former pastor/wife, Art and Nova Smoker. Erika is currently serving at CASAS in Guatemala. The article is in the Winter 2004 MCC Great Lakes News.
·         Pleas from MCC on behalf of: northern Uganda, ``Violence Escalates, Villages Empty; Iraq, ``More to Learn, More to Do''; and AIDS Care Kits.
·         Signposts: Events and News from Christian Peacemaker Teams.
·         January Connecting Families Newsletter. Feel free to take a copy.
·         February MCC Great Lakes Peace and Justice Office Newsletter.

Our Schools     
         A new opportunity for exploring Bethany Christian schools this year is Parents' Visit Day on Wednesday, February 11, 9:00 a.m. through noon. If you'd like to learn more about Bethany, stop in that morning to talk with staff, hear Cornerstone Singers perform in chapel (9:15 a.m.), and see classes in session.

         Students in grades 5 through 11 are invited to attend Visitors' Day at Bethany Christian Schools on February 16 , to shadow a current student for the day. Please call admissions counselor Merv Miller at 534-2567 to register in advance. An additional visitors' day is scheduled for March 1.

         For a wonderful family time, plan to attend Bethany Christian School's musical, You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown . Performances take place on February 26, 27, and 28 at 7:30 p.m., and on February 29 at 3:00 p.m. Tickets go on sale to the public tomorrow, February 9. Call Bethany at 534-2567 to reserve tickets.

         A variety of Berkey Avenue craftswomen have already been involved in the preparation of quilts to be sold in support of Bethany. There's still time to add your own stitches to two more quilts : You're invited to Bethany Christian Schools' lobby every day from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. to help on a quilt for the March 19 Fun Fest. Call the school at 534-2567 if you plan to eat a complimentary lunch at BCS. You may also quilt each day at the Old Bag Factory on a Fun Fest quilt.
Community Events
         On Saturday, February 21, from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m., Alan and Eleanor Kreider will speak on ``Becoming a Peace Church'' at Fellowship of Hope Mennonite Church. The Kreiders, long term Mennonite missionaries in England now teaching at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary, will examine the areas of worship, work, war and witness in the life of the church and draw forth stories of creative peacemaking from participants. Members of Fellowship of Hope will share how they hope to make peace witness a central focus of their congregation this year. If you are interested in peacemaking becoming a more central part of your congregation's life and mission, you should consider coming to this seminar. A simple lunch will be served, courtesy of Fellowship of Hope. A suggested $5-10 donation will help Fellowship of Hope defray the cost of the event. RSVP to294-1416 or fochurchmennonite.net.

         Please join the Mennonite Church USA Peace and Justice Network Reference Committee for a local gathering on Friday, February 27, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Prairie Street Mennonite Church Fellowship Hall . There will be worship, singing, reports from PJSN, refreshments, dialog on Faith and Politics, offering, and fun! For more information, contact Susan Mark Landis, (330) 683-6844.

         Renewing Hope MOPS is still meeting at Clinton Frame Mennonite Church . The name has been changed to reflect what our mission statement plans to do with each mom that walks through the door: renew hope. We are looking for interested people with servant hearts to become caregivers for 2 to 12 hours a month. We meet on Thursday mornings from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The evening program is from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Separate programming is provided for moms and their children. The children's programming is thriving, especially the infant room. If you are interested in volunteering, contact Frances Miller at mfmsbnin.net or 534-5677 or Erika Liestman at 534-7113.  
        
Our Church
Office Hours :     Tuesday-Friday
                  8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
        
Statistical Report for February 1
         Attendance: 212

This Sunday, February 8
         Greeters:        Ora and Mary Troyer
                           Darin and Lisa Short
         Bulletins:                Carol and Jocelyn Spicher       
                  Nursery:                  Infant Tim and Izaete Nafziger
                                    Toddler Dan and Evie Nafziger
                  Offering Counters:       Brian Campbell
                                             Ron Good
                  Audio/Video Operator: Michael Sherer

Next Sunday, February 15
         Greeters:        Ora and Mary Troyer
                           Darin and Lisa Short
         Bulletins:       Carol and Jocelyn Spicher       
         Nursery:         Infant Mark and Joyce Pankratz
                           Toddler Tavi and Anita Mounsithiraj
         Offering Counters:       Barbara Eichorn
                                    Genie Kehr
         Audio/Video Operator: Michael Sherer

_________________________________________
Pastors: Anita Kehr; Dan Schrock; Heidi Siemens-Rhodes, intern
Phone: (574) 534-2398;   Email:
Web: berkeyavenue.in.us.mennonite2.net
Elders: Tom Albrecht, Beth Berry, Ginny Martin, Phil Miller, Peter Shetler, Roxanna Sommers

This Week
Monday Elders, 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday BWIF, 9:30 a.m. at Patsy Sherer's
Tuesday Mission Commission, 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday BAMF hosts GMMC, 11:30 a.m.

From the Elders
Here is our agenda for today's congregational meeting . A packet of material went into your mailboxes two weeks ago that included a number of documents that we will be discussing.
1.       Approve minutes of the November 16 congregational meeting.
2.       Mission and building discernment:
a.       Review our process to date, celebrating God's work among us so far!
b.       Present the proposed process for discerning our mission and our building and space needs.
c.       Discuss the job description for a building/land use committee.
d.       Act on forming a building/land use committee.
e.       Receive nominations for choosing members of a building/land use committee.
f.       Introduce the mission document.
3.       Announce the members of the 25 ^th anniversary planning group.    
4.       Discuss and act on the Mission Commission's proposal to distribute the surplus funds from the 2002-2003 fiscal year.
5.       Discuss and act on the revision of the ``Guidelines for the Discretionary Community Caring Fund.''
6.       Offer counsel to the Fellowship and Caring Commission about coffee and coffee-making.

Everyone is invited to stay today for the fellowship meal that will precede the congregational meeting. You are welcome whether or not you brought food with you!

Christian Education Commission
         Attention high school seniors, college and seminary students, and parents of these folk:          It's time to sign up if you want to participate in the BAMF College Student Financial Aid Plan for the 2004-2005 school year. This program is available to active members of BAMF and their immediate families. Students must be enrolled full time at one of the following schools: Bethel College, Bluffton College, EMU, Goshen College, Hesston College, AMBS, or Eastern Mennonite Seminary. If you'd like to participate, contact Renae Yoder prior to February 29.

Survey on Adult Nurture
         Today in your mailboxes you will find a short survey on adult Christian education , one copy for every adult in your household. For at least five years, the level of participation in adult classes has been declining. To understand this trend and what it means for our congregation, we want to collect accurate information about your desires. Please return your survey within two weeks (February 29) to the slot labeled ``Christian Education Surveys'' on the lower right side of the mailboxes. Thank you!

From the Pastors
         This Wednesday, the Christian Church begins its walk toward Easter through Lent. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of this period of preparation and memory; specifically we recall the ministry of Jesus among humankind and the confrontations that led to his crucifixion and our salvation.
         During Lenten worship this year at Berkey Avenue, we will be focusing on stories from the Gospel of Luke that depict Jesus' struggle against evil. While we know the final outcome of that struggle because of the triumph of the resurrection, we also know that until that final time, the struggle against evil continues. As Jesus did, we also confront and struggle with evil now. We participate in this struggle, however, strengthened and equipped by God through the salvation of Jesus and the help of the Holy Spirit.
         To symbolize the equipping the strengthening that God offers us in our struggle against evil, we will be taking Communion each Sunday of Lent. Communion can have different meanings, depending on what aspects of it we choose to emphasize. Article 12 of the Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective hints at some of these many meanings. Our Lenten services this year will emphasize how Communion nourishes us in the struggle against evil. As we take the bread and drink the cup, we will be fed and strengthened so that we can engage in the way of discipleship to which we voluntarily committed ourselves when we asked for and received baptism by water and the Spirit.
         Because we are focusing on this particular meaning of Communion during Lent, we will be inviting only baptized persons to come to the table. As Anabaptists, we believe that our children's future is secure with God until they reach an age when they can better count the long-term cost of discipleship. And for those who are old enough to count the cost, then we would hope that they would consider again whether they're ready to commit themselves to the way of Jesus.
         For many years at Berkey Avenue, we have had quite an open invitation to the Communion table, as we've focused on the importance of everyone's presence within our community. However, our Lenten emphasis is different, and our children especially may not understand why there will be no grapes or seeds for them during the weeks of Lent. We ask those of you who are parents of children who might be disappointed at this to take some time to talk to them about what will be happening in worship. We will also be explaining this to them during the children's time next Sunday. If you have any questions or want to talk more about this, please see any of us.
         We pray that the next six weeks will be a beneficial season of experiencing God's empowering and encouraging presence with us in new ways.
                  Anita, Dan, Heidi

This Week
Monday BWIF, 9:30 a.m. at Evie Nafziger's
Tuesday Worship Commission, 7:00 p.m.


From the Elders
         The elders wish to remind the congregation about the Caring Team and its role in our life together. The team is made up of 3-5 members and the purpose is to deal with alleged sexual harassment and/or abuse, should it occur within our congregation. A set of guidelines were drawn up in the fall of 1996 to address this issue, and a copy is posted on the small bulletin board by the mailboxes to refresh memories. If you would like a personal copy, you may request one from the office. The following persons are serving on the team: Steve Garboden, Ruth Liechty, Jeannie Krabill Miller, Rick Stiffney, and Roxanna Sommers, elder representative. Please contact one of them if you have questions or should an allegation arise.

Christian Education Commission
         Attention high school seniors, college and seminary students, and parents of these folk:          It's time to sign up if you want to participate in the BAMF College Student Financial Aid Plan for the 2004-2005 school year. This program is available to active members of BAMF and their immediate families. Students must be enrolled full time at one of the following schools: Bethel College, Bluffton College, EMU, Goshen College, Hesston College, AMBS, or Eastern Mennonite Seminary. If you'd like to participate, contact Renae Yoder prior to February 29.

         Please return your yellow survey on adult Christian education to the special mailbox slot by next Sunday.

Fellowship and Caring Commission
         After the snowed-out ChurchFamily Night, we are once again going to try to have a time to fellowship and enhance our community relationships on Sunday evening, February 29 at 6:00 p.m. We will provide snacks (no meal) and games for all ages. If you have a table game or another game you would like to share please feel free to do so. Come and enjoy!!

Mission Commission
         Have you, your family, your Sunday School class, or your small group been looking for a mission project? Perhaps the ``Box Project'' or its concepts may be just what you are looking for. The ``Box Project'' is a way to help others who have specific needs. Several copies of the ``Box Project'' are on the Mission Table in front of the library. The same information can be found on the internet at the following address: www.boxproject.org.

Stewardship and Finance Commission
         The early enrollment date for Bethany Christian Schools is March 15. To participate in the BAMF tuition plan, students must enroll by this date. So that we can project an accurate amount needed in the designated funds, please let John Nussbaum know by February 29 whether your children are planning to attend Bethany next year. The Stewardship and Finance Commission will provide a preliminary percentage of tuition covered by March 14. The designated funds will remain open for contributions until April 30.

Announcements
BAMF News        
         Next Sunday, a baptism exploration class will begin to meet. An orientation meeting for people interested in this class (andif in high schooltheir parents) is scheduled for this afternoon at 12:30 p.m. If you are interested in learning more about the class and its content or about baptism in general, please see Dan or Anita soon.

         You are invited to give your completed Funeral Planning Sheet to the church office at any time. If you want a fresh copy to complete, please ask for one or look on the literature rack.

         A thank-you note from D. Richard Miller is on the bulletin board for you to read.

         Please note the change in Carol Spicher's e-mail address . It should be Lorac77777aol.com.

         Goldie Hostetler now has her own personal phone number : 875-6693.

         You are invited to the Mennonite Youth Choir Festival, Sunday, March 14, at Goshen College Music Center. The choir is made up of 187 voices from 32 Mennonite congregations throughout Indiana and Michigan. Prelude begins at 1:30 p.m. and the choir program at 2:00. A good number of Berkey Avenue children are included in the choir.

Our Schools     
         Bethany Christian High School presents You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown on February 26, 27, and 28 at 7:30 p.m., and on February 29 at 3:00 p.m. Call 534-2567 to reserve tickets.

         Bethany Christian Schools Visitors' Day, March 1: Students in grades 5 through 11 are invited to attend Visitors' Day and shadow a current student. Please call admissions counselor Merv Miller at 534-2567 to register in advance.

         Evening Song and Prayer will be held this week on Ash Wednesday, February 25, at 7:30 p.m. at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary. This service in the AMBS chapel will combine scripture reading, singing, prayer and silence. Heidi Siemens-Rhodes helps to plan these services. For information, call AMBS 295-3726.

         Well-known theologian Miroslav Volf will present the Theological Lectureship at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary, February 26 and 27. His theme will be ``The light shines in the darkness: Christian faith and the varieties of contemporary pluralism.'' Three lectures are part of the series: the first on Thursday, February 26, at 7:00 p.m. and two on Friday, February 27, at 1:45 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. All lectures will be in the seminary chapel. The public is invited; there is no fee to attend.

         The Student Peace and Justice Committee of Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary presents ``Peace Talks: 9/11 families respond to terrorism'' on Wednesday, March 3, at 7:00 p.m. in the AMBS Lambright Center. Family member Fran Day of Peaceful Tomorrows will speak. Peaceful Tomorrows is an advocacy organization founded by family members of September 11 victims who have united to turn grief into action for peace. Also join the AMBS community and Fran Day for a forum on Thursday, March 4 at noon in the Lambright Center, to entertain questions and discuss issues of terrorism. Arrive early to purchase lunch ($5) and find seating. For more information, contact Melanie or Amy at 296-6273.

         Ted & Lee will be performing ``Fight for the Blessing'' with pianist Ken Medema at 7:30 p.m. on March 4 in Sauder Concert Hall at Goshen College. ``Fight for the Blessing'' is the biblical story of Jacob from his birth to blessing to flight to reconciliation with his brother Esau. Ken Medema advances the story through song, musical backgrounds and as narrator and occasional character (including Isaac who, like Medema, is blind). Admission: $15 general: $10 seniors, students, and GC students. For tickets, call the Goshen College Welcome Center at 535-7566.

Community Events
         You are invited to an evening of discussion about the future of Mennonite Mission Network's ministry in Africa. Taking place this Thursday, February 26, 6:30-8:00 p.m. at Eighth Street Mennonite Church, the evening will be hosted and led by Erwin Rempel, senior executive for Mission Network Services, and Stephen Wiebe-Johnson, Africa director for Mission Network. They will give an update on Mission Network's Africa program and on the transformation of Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission. This is an opportunity for you to share your hopes, dreams, and concerns about the future of our work in Africa.

         Church Women United of Goshen is sponsoring a Haystack Supper to benefit The Window at Waterford Mennonite Church on Thursday, February 26 from 4:30-7:00 p.m. Tickets are $6.00 for adults, $3.00 for children ages 5-12, and children under 5 are free. You may purchase tickets at the door, from a CWU Member, or at The Window. If purchased at the door they will be $1.00 more. The meal includes drink and dessert. Call The Window at 533-9680 for more information.

         The Mennonite Church USA Peace and Justice Support Network (PJSN) Reference Committee invites you to join them this Friday, February 27, from 7:00-9:00 p.m. in the Prairie Street Mennonite Church Fellowship Hall at 1316 Prairie Street in Elkhart. The evening will include a dialog on Faith and Politics with John Roth, Malinda Berry, Keith Graber Miller, Evelyn Kreider, and Everett Thomas; an update on Colombia with Jorge Vielman; an update on Iraq with Titus Peachy; and singing and drumming with Leo Hartshorn. Sumptuous desserts are also part of the evening with Fair Trade coffee following! For more information, please contact Susan Mark Landis at (330)-683-6844 or by e-mail at SusanMLMennoniteUSA.org before Wednesday.

         East Goshen Mennonite Church and Maple City Chapel are co-hosting a Parenting Seminar, ``Understanding Your Teenager,'' on March 20, 6:00-9:00 p.m. at Maple City Chapel and on March 21, 3:00-6:00 p.m. at East Goshen Mennonite Church. Don't miss this opportunity to learn principles for building and keeping a good relationship with your kids during their teen years. Come for some encouragement, some practical ideas, and a chance to interact with other parents like yourself who care enough about their kids to sharpen their parenting skills. This is not a seminar just for parents who are having difficulty with their kids. Instead it's for all parents who want to stay close to their kids during their teen years and influence them to become the kind of young men and women God created them to be. The presenter is Wayne Rice, founder and director of Understanding Your Teenager, an organization serving parents of teen and preteens and co-founder of Youth Specialties, a top provider of youth ministry resources throughout North America. Tickets are $15 per person and $20 per couple until March 9; after March 9 the price rises by $5. If you have any questions or want to obtain tickets, contact Bob Yoder at bobim.mennonite.net, or stop by the Indiana-Mennonite Conference Office. A flier is on the bulletin board.

         ``I Will Arise'' is the theme for Amigo Centre's Lenten Quiet Days this year. In partnership with the Hermitage, Amigo Centre invites you to take part in one of these days of reflection: March 3 and 18 at Amigo Centre and March 12 and 23 at the Hermitage. For more information contact Amigo Centre at infoamigocentre.org.

         You are invited to attend the first annual Michigan Eco-Summit 2004. This event is a chance to bring together environmental groups to address the pressing environmental issues of out two-state area and foster collaborative action. The event is scheduled for Friday, March 5 ^th at Ferrettie/Baugo Park (on the St. Joseph/Elkhart County line on Ash Rd. north of 933) 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Issues to be discussed include ``Invasive Species'' and ``Wetland and Water Resource Protection.'' For more information see the flier on the bulletin board. Registration forms are on the literature rack.

         The 10 ^th Annual Meeting for The Depot will be March 11 at 6:00 p.m. The Board of Directors set aside an evening to show appreciation to those who assist or are involved at The Depot. A catered meal is the first gesture of appreciation on the program. The speaker will be Ken Sensening, Assistant Director of the MCC East Coast Regional Office. Ken and his family previously served in overseas assignments in Swaziland and Sudan. He is well known for his storytelling and love of history. He and his family live near Akron, Pennsylvania. For reservations call The Depot at 534-4070 or the Whistle Stop at 534-1828 by March 3.

         The Clothesline Project is a visual display to educate, document, and raise awareness about domestic and sexual violence in our society. Attend a T-shirt making event at Assembly Mennonite Church on March 18, 7:30 p.m., and create a powerful visual statement against domestic and sexual violence. You can also create a T-shirt on your own or with a small group and get them to the College prior to their display in the Goshen College Union Building, April 2-3. For more information see the fliers on the bulletin board.

         Menno-Hof is in need of long term volunteers beginning this fall. We will provide a furnished apartment, food allowance, and monthly stipend. Medical insurance is provided for terms of one year or more. Please contact your friends and relatives who might to looking for an opportunity to live in the Goshen/Shipshewana area. For more information, phone (260) 768-4117 or e-mail jymennohofmyvine.com.

         Volunteers are urgently needed for Church Women United in The Window's Meals On Wheels program. Volunteer drivers and meal carriers spend about one hour during the lunch hour Monday through Friday delivering meals in Goshen. This can be done once a month, twice a month, or more. Please call The Window at 533-9680 to volunteer.
Our Church
Office Hours :     Tuesday-Friday
                  8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
        
Statistical Report for February 15
         Attendance: 186

Today, February 22
         Greeters:        Ora and Mary Troyer
                  Darin and Lisa Short
         Bulletins:                Carol and Jocelyn Spicher       
                  Nursery:                  Infant Bob and Lorraine Pflederer
                                    Toddler John and Ruth Roth
                  Offering Counters:       Steve Garboden
                                             Anita Mounsithiraj
                  Audio/Video Operator: Michael Sherer

Next Sunday, February 29
         Greeters:        Ora and Mary Troyer
                           Darin and Lisa Short
         Bulletins:       Carol and Jocelyn Spicher       
         Nursery:         Infant Dale and Trish Shenk
                           Toddler Greg and Barb Smucker
         Offering Counters:       Diane Nafziger
                                    John Nussbaum
         Audio/Video Operator: Michael Sherer
________________________________________
Pastors: Anita Kehr; Dan Schrock; Heidi Siemens-Rhodes, intern
Phone: (574) 534-2398;   Email:
Web: berkeyavenue.in.us.mennonite2.net
Elders: Tom Albrecht, Beth Berry, Ginny Martin, Phil Miller, Peter Shetler, Roxanna Sommers

This Week
Today Baptism Exploration classes, nurture hour and 3:00-4:30.
Today Game night, 6:00 p.m.
Monday Elders, 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday BWIF, 9:30 a.m. at Lori Good's
Wednesday LSC, 8:00 p.m.
Thursday MYF, 7:00 p.m.
Saturday Men's Breakfast, 7:00 a.m.
Saturday IN-MI Mennonite Conference Cluster Meeting, 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., College Mennonite Church

Christian Education Commission
         Please return your yellow survey on adult Christian education to the special mailbox slot by today.

Fellowship and Caring Commission
         Come, relax, and have some fun tonight at 6:00 p.m. when we'll have a game night for people of all ages. Snacks are provided. Please bring a friend or game that you would like to share. Hope to see you there!!
         The Fellowship and Caring Commission wants to start serving fair-trade coffee during the fellowship time and is taking contributions toward a new brewing system that would allow us to provide you with some incredible coffee. If you are interested in contributing to this cause, please do so by March 28. You can ask a member of the Fellowship and Caring Commission or those who were at the congregational meeting if you have any questions.

Worship Commission
         The Scriptures for the worship services during Lent at Berkey Avenue are these:
         February 29 Luke 4:1-15; Jesus resists Satan in the wilderness.
         March 7 Luke 4:16-30; Jesus begins to proclaim.
         March 14 Luke 7:36-50; Jesus cancels debt and explains gratitude.
         March 21 Luke 9:28-36; Jesus prays, renews his identity.
         March 28 Luke 13:1-9; Jesus addresses the news of the day.
         April 4 Passion Sunday Luke 22:39-53; Jesus prays, yields to evil, heals an enemy.
         April 11 Easter Luke 24:1-12 and Revelation 19: ( 1-5) 6-10; Jesus defeats evil and prepares a table.

Mission Commission
         Have you, your family, your Sunday School class, or your small group been looking for a mission project? Perhaps the ``Box Project'' or its concepts may be just what you are looking for. The ``Box Project'' is a way to help others who have specific needs. Several copies of the ``Box Project'' are on the Mission Table in front of the library. The same information can be found on the internet at the following address: www.boxproject.org.

Stewardship and Finance Commission
         The early enrollment date for Bethany Christian Schools is March 15. To participate in the BAMF tuition plan, students must enroll by this date. So that we can project an accurate amount needed in the designated funds, please let John Nussbaum know by today, February 29, whether your children are planning to attend Bethany next year. The Stewardship and Finance Commission will provide a preliminary percentage of tuition covered by March 14. The designated funds will remain open for contributions until April 30.

Announcements
BAMF News        
         THANKS to all the persons who have helped get our collection of Soup Labels, Box Tops for Education, and Betty Crocker Points off to a good start. We have 567 Soup Labels, 134 Box Tops for Education, and 6,973 Points for Betty Crocker to date. These help the Chicago Mennonite Learning Center and Bashor Home. Please continue placing your contributions in the box in the fellowship area. Looking for more to snip and count! Genie Kehr

         You are invited to the Mennonite Youth Choir Festival program on Sunday, March 14, at Goshen College Music Center. The choir is made up of 187 voices from 32 Mennonite congregations throughout Indiana and Michigan. Prelude begins at 1:30 p.m. and the choir program at 2:00. Berkey Avenue children who are participating are: Twila Albrecht, Lauren Hooley, Elias Kehr, Jay Mast, Mary Roth, Melinda Sherer, Monica Sherer, Morgan Short, Alisha Snyder, Andrew Snyder, Hamilton Thorne, and Natalie Thorn. Patsy Sherer is on the coordinating committee.

Our Schools     
         The Student Peace and Justice Committee of Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary presents ``Peace Talks: 9/11 families respond to terrorism'' on Wednesday, March 3, at 7:00 p.m. in the AMBS Lambright Center. Family member Fran Day of Peaceful Tomorrows will speak. Peaceful Tomorrows is an advocacy organization founded by family members of September 11 victims who have united to turn grief into action for peace. Also join the AMBS community and Fran Day for a forum on Thursday, March 4 at noon in the Lambright Center, to entertain questions and discuss issues of terrorism. Arrive early to purchase lunch ($5) and find seating. For more information, contact Melanie or Amy at 296-6273.

         Ted & Lee will be performing ``Fight for the Blessing'' with pianist Ken Medema at 7:30 p.m. on March 4 in Sauder Concert Hall at Goshen College. ``Fight for the Blessing'' is the biblical story of Jacob from his birth to blessing to flight to reconciliation with his brother Esau. Ken Medema advances the story through song, musical backgrounds and as narrator and occasional character (including Isaac who, like Medema, is blind). Tickets: $15 general admission and $10 for seniors, students, and GC students. For tickets, call the Goshen College Welcome Center at 535-7566.

         The Goshen College Chamber Choir will present a concert March 7 at 7:30 p.m. in Sauder Concert Hall following their spring break tour to Ohio and Pennsylvania with Dr. Debra Brubaker conducting. Admission: $5 general, $3 seniors and students; GC students are free.

Community Events
         World Day of Prayer celebration, March 5, 9:00 a.m. at the College Mennonite Church (enter through the south doors): Come, join with God's people in over 170 countries for an ecumenical service written by the Christian women of Panama on the theme, ``In Faith, Women Shape the Future.'' The service is sponsored by Church Women United of Goshen. For more information, see the flier posted on the bulletin board.

         The 10 ^th Annual Meeting for The Depot will be March 11 at 6:00 p.m. The Board of Directors has set aside this evening to show appreciation to those who assist or are involved at The Depot. A catered meal is the first gesture of appreciation on the program. The speaker will be Ken Sensenig, Assistant Director of the MCC East Coast Regional Office. Ken and his family previously served in overseas assignments in Swaziland and Sudan. He is well known for his storytelling and love of history. He and his family live near Akron, Pennsylvania. For reservations call The Depot at 534-4070 or the Whistle Stop at 534-1828 by March 3.

         The Clothesline Project is a visual display to educate, document, and raise awareness about domestic and sexual violence in our society. Attend a T-shirt making event at Assembly Mennonite Church on March 18, 7:30 p.m., and create a powerful visual statement against domestic and sexual violence. You can also create a T-shirt on your own or with a small group and get them to the College prior to their display in the Union Building on April 2-3. For more information see the fliers on the bulletin board.

         MCC Great Lakes is in need of a Material Resource Coordinator at The Depot. This two year full-time volunteer position is responsible for the donated material aid, and for recruiting and coordinating volunteers to prepare the aid for international shipment. For further information, contact May Ann Weber at 534-4133.

Our Church
Office Hours :     Tuesday-Friday
                  8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
        
Statistical Report for February 22
         Attendance: 193

Today, February 29
         Greeters:        Ora and Mary Troyer
                  Darin and Lisa Short
         Bulletins:                Carol and Jocelyn Spicher       
                  Nursery:                  Infant Dale and Trish Shenk
                                    Toddler Greg and Barb Smucker
                  Offering Counters:       Diane Nafziger
                                             John Nussbaum
                  Audio/Video Operator: Michael Sherer

Next Sunday, March 7
         Greeters:        Eric and Lindsy Diener Meyer
                           Bob and Lorraine Pflederer      
         Bulletins:       Jesse Kehr               
         Nursery:         Infant Darin and Lisa Short
                           Toddler Tim and Tracy Thorne
         Offering Counters:       Ruth Hathaway
                                    Greg Smucker
         Audio/Video Operator: Phil Miller
________________________________________
Pastors: Anita Kehr; Dan Schrock; Heidi Siemens-Rhodes, intern
Phone: (574) 534-2398;   Email:
Web: berkeyavenue.in.us.mennonite2.net
Elders: Tom Albrecht, Beth Berry, Ginny Martin, Phil Miller, Peter Shetler, Roxanna Sommers

From the Leadership Selection Committee (LSC)
         On March 14, 21, and 28, you will receive Gifts Discernment forms. After you've filled them out, we will use these forms to guide us as we discern and invite people to serve in leadership positions within our congregation. We want to emphasize with you the importance of prayer and the necessity of spiritual discernment throughout the whole process. As you work through these forms, we hope you will prayerfully begin to think about your own gifts and the gifts of other members in our congregation. We also encourage small groups to work together through the form so that your response becomes a more corporate kind of discernment. On Sunday, March 14, we will take some time during our worship service to pray together as we look ahead to the future of our congregation. May God bless you in this task! From the Leadership Selection Commission: Karl Sommers, Doug Baker, Ruth Miller Roth.
        
This Week
Today Baptism Exploration classes, nurture hour and 3:00-4:30.
Monday Elders, 6:30 p.m.
Monday BWIF, 9:30 a.m. at Sherry Wenger's
Monday Fellowship and Caring Commission, 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday Stewardship and Finance Commission, 7:15 p.m.
Wednesday Christian Education Commission, 7:00 p.m.
Saturday IN-MI Children's Choir Rehearsal

Fellowship and Caring Commission
         The Fellowship and Caring Commission wants to start serving fair-trade coffee during the fellowship time and is taking contributions toward a new brewing system that would allow us to provide you with some incredible coffee. If you are interested in contributing to this cause, please do so by March 28. You can ask a member of the Fellowship and Caring Commission or those who were at the congregational meeting if you have any questions.

Worship Commission
         The Scriptures for the remaining worship services during Lent at Berkey Avenue are these:
         March 7 Luke 4:16-30; Jesus begins to proclaim.
         March 14 Luke 7:36-50; Jesus cancels debt and explains gratitude.
         March 21 Luke 9:28-36; Jesus prays, renews his identity.
         March 28 Luke 13:1-9; Jesus addresses the news of the day.
         April 4 Passion Sunday Luke 22:39-53; Jesus prays, yields to evil, heals an enemy.
         April 11 Easter Luke 24:1-12 and Revelation 19: ( 1-5) 6-10; Jesus defeats evil and prepares a table.

Announcements
BAMF News        
         The new pictorial directories are in the mailboxes. Enjoy!!
         In the last few weeks there has been a good response to the request for input as to who might serve on the Building/Land Use Committee . The Leadership Selection Committee will be meeting tomorrow, Monday, March 8, to work on this. If you have any further comments or suggestions please get them to Karl Sommers, Ruth Miller Roth, or Doug Baker before then.     

         You are invited to the Mennonite Youth Choir Festival program on Sunday, March 14, at Goshen College Music Center. The choir is made up of 187 voices from 32 Mennonite congregations throughout Indiana and Michigan. Prelude begins at 1:30 p.m. and the choir program at 2:00. Berkey Avenue children who are participating are: Twila Albrecht, Andrea Born, Lauren Hooley, Elias Kehr, Jay Mast, Mary Roth, Melinda Sherer, Monica Sherer, Morgan Short, Alisha Snyder, Andrew Snyder, Hamilton Thorne, Natalie Thorne, and Lynelle Yoder. Jenny Hooley and Patsy Sherer are on the coordinating committee. We apologize for the names that were omitted in last Sunday's newsletter!

Our Schools
         The Goshen College Chamber Choir will present a concert March 7 at 7:30 p.m. in Sauder Concert Hall following their spring break tour to Ohio and Pennsylvania with Dr. Debra Brubaker conducting. Admission: $5 general, $3 seniors and students; GC students are free.

         Bethany Christian Schools invites you to the Mennonite Schools' Regional Orchestra Festival Concert at Bethany on Sunday, March 14, at 3:00 p.m. The performance will feature the individual and combined orchestras of Bethany Christian Schools, Central Christian School (Kidron, OH), and Iowa Mennonite School (Kalona, IA). Dr. John Graulty, newly appointed conductor of the Goshen College Orchestra and Wind Ensemble, will be the featured guest conductor. An offering will be taken.

         College Scholarship availability: Looking for extra funds to help cover your college expenses? Interested in pursuing holistic stewardship in your life? Combine the two by applying for an MMA College Scholarship. Scholarships are available to Anabaptist high school graduates and current college students who own a qualifying MMA policy/product. For more information or an application, talk to Darin Short, our MMA advocate, visit MMA online (www.mma-online.org), or call 533-9511.

         Youth and Youth Sponsors are invited to attend the brush-up rehearsal of TORBA, the Goshen College Spring Mainstage, for FREE on Wednesday night, March 24. The story is based on the experiences of Amy Gopp, a young MCC peace worker who spent four years in the former Yugoslavia during the civil war there in the early 1990's. To reserve your seats, contact Amos Kratzer at Goshen College at 535-7528.         The production opens on March 19 with repeat performances on March 20, 26, 27, and 28 for the public. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 8:00 p.m. and the Sunday matinee begins at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students. To reserve tickets for the show, call the Goshen College Welcome Center at (574) 535-7566.
        
         ``Hard Cases: Confronting the Spirit World'' is a consultation planned at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary for Christian educators, medical personnel and pastors who encounter questions and needs that have to do with the nature of good and evil in human life. The consultation takes place April 15-17. For more information, contact Beverley Sawatzky at AMBS, 296-6207 or bsawatzkyambs.edu.

Community Events
         A special ecumenical community worship service of remembrance takes place on March 21 at Goshen City Church of the Brethren at 7:00 p.m. The purpose of the service is to mark the anniversary of the beginning of bombing in Iraq.

         Award-winning Canadian poet Di Brandt will read from her new collection, ``Now We Care,'' during a poetry reading at Goshen College on March 9 at 7:30 p.m. in Rieth Recital Hall. Brandt is the author of numerous works of poetry, essays and criticism. She is Professor of Creative Writing at the University of Windsor in Windsor, Ontario. The reading will be followed by a reception and book signing. Admission is free.

         At the next Mennonite and Brethren Marriage Encounter weekend on April 16,17, 18 at the Signature Inn, Ft. Wayne, couples who have a good marriage will have the opportunity to grow in their love and appreciation for each other. Register now by contacting Carl and Elaine Newcomer, 5437 Rd 32 S., West Liberty, Ohio, 43357; phone, (937) 465-3366; email, cenewcomloganrec.com.

         Introducing the newest Alzheimer's caregiver support group in Elkhart County , starting March 18, 6:00-7:30 p.m., at Sailor Community Center on Hubbard Hill Estates. Entrance is off of County Road 24; the address is 28070 CR 24, Elkhart. Future meetings will be held on the third Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m.

         The Clothesline Project is a visual display to educate, document, and raise awareness about domestic and sexual violence in our society. Attend a T-shirt making event at Assembly Mennonite Church on March 18, 7:30 p.m., and create a powerful visual statement against domestic and sexual violence. You can also create a T-shirt on your own or with a small group and get them to the College prior to their display in the Union Building on April 2-3. For more information see the fliers on the bulletin board.

         MCC Great Lakes is in need of a Material Resource Coordinator at The Depot. This two year full-time volunteer position is responsible for the donated material aid, and for recruiting and coordinating volunteers to prepare the aid for international shipment. For further information, contact May Ann Weber at 534-4133.

Our Church
Office Hours :     Tuesday-Friday
                  8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
        
Statistical Report for February 29
         Attendance: 221

Today, March 7
         Greeters:        Eric and Lindsy Diener Meyer
                  Bob and Lorraine Pflederer
         Bulletins:                Jesse Kehr      
                  Nursery:                  Infant Darin and Lisa Short
                                    Toddler Tim and Tracy Thorne
                  Offering Counters:       Ruth Hathaway
                                             Greg Smucker
                  Audio/Video Operator: Phil Miller

Next Sunday, March 14
         Greeters:        Eric and Lindsy Diener Meyer
                           Bob and Lorraine Pflederer      
         Bulletins:       Jesse Kehr               
         Nursery:         Infant Galen and Mary Beth Spicher
                           Toddler Curt and Sherry Wenger
         Offering Counters:       Brian Campbell
                                    Ron Good
         Audio/Video Operator: Phil Miller
________________________________________
Pastors: Anita Kehr; Dan Schrock; Heidi Siemens-Rhodes, intern
Phone: (574) 534-2398;   Email:
Web: berkeyavenue.in.us.mennonite2.net
Elders: Tom Albrecht, Beth Berry, Ginny Martin, Phil Miller, Peter Shetler, Roxanna Sommers

From the Elders: Reflections
         In the next weeks and months, we will be making decisions concerning the use of our land and our mission. Often when congregations wrestle with these questions, first the mission is clarified and explained in writing. Then the facilities, land acquisition, and resources are gathered to support and further the mission. Without a doubt, God sometimes works that way.
         In our current situation, it seems God may be working in a different way, first gifting us with a resource and then guiding us as to its use. Indeed, this model is familiar to us; we use it frequently to discern personal gifts. How often have we discussed, pondered, identified, and listed the gifts and talents we each possess? Then we encourage one another to be faithful to use and develop these gifts for the good of the Kingdom.
         We recognize the Spirit's leading in the purchase of the land next door. Today it is not obvious what we are being called to do with it. Some may think it an odd piece of real estate. How would the Spirit guide us concerning its use?
         God has been at work in our congregation and in the lives of individuals, as is evident by the projects and activities in which we are involved. We need to recognize and affirm this leading and trust God to bless and expand the mission He has begun among us. Maybe we will use our new resources to support these efforts. Maybe God will also inspire us to work toward goals unimagined. Perhaps the new gift of nature and green space will invite us to create an area for quiet reflection and contemplation in the midst of our busy, cluttered lives a mission of healing restoration. What other exciting possibilities might there be? May we be faithful to listen to each other and the Holy Spirit as we discern and dream.
                  Roxanna Sommers on behalf of the elders:
Tom Albrecht, Beth Berry, Anita Kehr, Ginny Martin, Phil Miller, Dan Schrock, Peter Shetler, Heidi Siemens-Rhodes (intern)
        

This Week
Today Baptism Exploration classes, nurture hour and 3:00-4:30.
Tuesday BWIF, 9:30 a.m. at Joy Hostetter's
Wednesday Jr. Youth, 6:00-8:15 p.m., are going to Clinton Frame for an area Jr. Youth gathering. More details will come via e-mail.
Wednesday MYF, 7:00 p.m. Joe and Linda Liechty will share about Ireland.
Thursday Youth Coordinating Council, 7:00 p.m.
Friday and Saturday Bethany Fun Fest

Fellowship and Caring Commission
         BAMF Food and Music Smorgasbord: Oh taste and see that the Lord is good! You are invited to share the food and music of Berkey Avenue at our fellowship meal and coffeehouse, March 24 at 6:00 p.m. Taste the food prepared by the Fellowship and Caring Commission, and then sample the musical offerings prepared by a variety of BAMF folks, including collaborations by Chuck Hernley and Bryan Kehr, original songs by Greg Smucker, creative arrangements of familiar songs and hymns by the worship team, the BAMF children singing, and more. Invite your friends to this evening of fellowship and music! PLEASE NOTE Our church is hosting guests from Goshen Interfaith Hospitality Network so only the restrooms and nursery will be accessible in the back hallway. There will be childcare provided for children 3 years old and younger, so those older need to remain in the coffeehouse area with parental supervision. Come and enjoy!!! For more information contact Ruth Brenneman or Cindy Baker.

Worship Commission
         The Scriptures for the remaining worship services during Lent at Berkey Avenue are these:
         March 14 Luke 7:36-50; Jesus cancels debt and explains gratitude.
         March 21 Luke 9:28-36; Jesus prays, renews his identity.
         March 28 Luke 13:1-9; Jesus addresses the news of the day.
         April 4 Passion Sunday Luke 22:39-53; Jesus prays, yields to evil, heals an enemy.
         April 11 Easter Luke 24:1-12 and Revelation 19: ( 1-5) 6-10; Jesus defeats evil and prepares a table.

Announcements
BAMF News        
        The Ambassadors and Young Adults are meeting together during this Sunday School quarter to study Doing What Comes Spiritually by John Drescher. Led by Joan Troyer, the class will focus on the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. All are welcome to come!

         Starting today , the Bible study on Philippians and the sermon response class will be swapping classrooms . The Philippians class will meet in the northeast corner of the sanctuary, and the sermon response class in the southeast corner.

         You are invited to the Mennonite Youth Choir Festival program this afternoon in the Sauder Concert Hall, Goshen College Music Center. The choir comprises 187 voices from 32 Mennonite congregations throughout Indiana and Michigan. Prelude begins at 1:30 p.m. and the choir program at 2:00. Berkey Avenue children who are participating include: Twila Albrecht, Andrea Born, Lauren Hooley, Elias Kehr, Jay Mast, Mary Roth, Melinda Sherer, Monica Sherer, Morgan Short, Alisha Snyder, Andrew Snyder, Hamilton Thorne, Natalie Thorne, and Lynelle Yoder. Jenny Hooley and Patsy Sherer are on the coordinating committee.

         Our meetingroom next Sunday will probably be full because we are hosting the Agape Ringers from Bethany, who will be playing handbells for prelude and during the offering and communion. People who arrive early might consider parking on the grass at the rear of the parking lot if it's not too soggy. People who arrive last may need to sit in the fellowship hall. We are grateful for your patience as we try to make room for everyone.

Thank you to all the quilters who gave their time and talents to work on the Bethany Fun Fest quilts in the school lobby and at the Old Bag Factory. The quilts are now completed and will be sold on Friday, March 19, at the Fun Fest auction. Please come and join us for a fun filled evening!
         BCS quilt committee

         If you or a family member will be graduating from high school, college, seminary, or another graduate program this spring, please inform Renae Yoder or the church office prior to April 15.

Our Schools
         Time is running out! Tomorrow is the deadline for students to qualify for the lowest tuition rate at Bethany Christian Schools for 2004-05.

         Bethany Christian Schools invites you to the Mennonite Schools' Regional Orchestra Festival Concert at Bethany this afternoon, March 14, at 3:00 p.m. The performance will feature the individual and combined orchestras of Bethany Christian Schools, Central Christian School (Kidron, OH), and Iowa Mennonite School (Kalona, IA). Dr. John Graulty, newly appointed conductor of the Goshen College Orchestra and Wind Ensemble, will be the featured guest conductor. An offering will be taken.

         Bethany Christian Schools' Fun Fest community fundraiser and benefit auction takes place this Friday night, March 19, and Saturday morning, March 20. Come for the auctions, food, and carnival on Friday night, and a pancake and sausage breakfast on Saturday morning. Everyone is welcome. See Evie Nafziger for more information or check www.bethanycs.net.

         College Scholarship availability: Looking for extra funds to help cover your college expenses? Interested in pursuing holistic stewardship in your life? Combine the two by applying for an MMA College Scholarship. Scholarships are available to Anabaptist high school graduates and current college students who own a qualifying MMA policy/product. For more information or an application, talk to Darin Short, our MMA advocate, visit MMA online (www.mma-online.org), or call 533-9511.

         Youth and youth sponsors are invited to attend the brush-up rehearsal of TORBA, the Goshen College Spring Mainstage, for FREE on Wednesday night, March 24. The story is based on the experiences of Amy Gopp, a young MCC peace worker who spent four years in the former Yugoslavia during the civil war there in the early 1990's. To reserve your seats, contact Amos Kratzer at Goshen College at 535-7528.         The production opens on March 19 with repeat performances on March 20, 26, 27, and 28 for the public. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 8:00 p.m. and the Sunday matinee begins at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students. To reserve tickets for the show, call the Goshen College Welcome Center at 535-7566.

         The Goshen College Lavender Jazz Band will present a concert at 8:00 p.m. on March 19 in Sauder Concert Hall. The concert will be a continuance of ``Journey through Time, Space, and Jazz'' with Sonny Carreno and GC's Big Band. Tickets: $5 general admission, $3 seniors and students, GC students free.

         The monthly Evening Song and Prayer service takes place this Wednesday, March 17, at 7:30 p.m. in the Chapel of the Sermon on the Mount at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary.

         Afternoon Sabbatical at Goshen College on Tuesday, March 16, at 1:00 p.m. in Sauder Concert Hall features Mary Oyer reflecting on ``Music in My Life: A Retrospective. ''
        
         ``Hard Cases: Confronting the Spirit World'' is a consultation planned at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary for Christian educators, medical personnel and pastors who encounter questions and needs that have to do with the nature of good and evil in human life. The consultation takes place April 15-17. For more information, contact Bev Sawatzky at AMBS, 296-6207 or bsawatzkyambs.edu.

Community Events
         The Goshen College website (goshen.edu) has a devotional every day during Lent. Try it for enrichment.

         A special ecumenical community worship service of remembrance takes place next Sunday, March 21, at Goshen City Church of the Brethren at 7:00 p.m. The purpose of the service is to mark the anniversary of the beginning of bombing in Iraq.

         The City of Goshen's Diversity Day celebration will be March 27 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., at Maple City Chapel (the former Wal-Mart/ Hollywood Connections building beside Menards). Admission is free! Events include an entertainment stage (music and dance), a variety of food booths, children's activities, a free raffle, and more! Come to this unique event and celebrate Goshen's unique cultural and ethnic diversity!

         Celebrate with us at MDC Goldenrod's Annual dinner ! You are cordially invited to attend the MDC Goldenrod Annual Dinner, Tuesday, March 30, 6:00 p.m. at Pleasant View Mennonite Church. Hear Kathy Landis, director of Wilderness Wind, share about the uplifting experience the annual canoe trip is for the MDC Goldenrod Community and for her. Meet Goldenrod's new administrator, David Heusinkveld. To reserve your place at the Annual Dinner, please contact Robin at 533-9720, ext. 5, or send an e-mail to annualmeetinggoldenrodonline.org with the names, phone numbers, and number of persons attending.

         You are invited to a buffet meal of authentic Indian cuisine at Belmont Church, Saturday, March 20. The meal begins at 5:30 p.m. Reservations are required. Adults, $15; students, age 12 through college, $8; children 11 and under, free. Call Belmont at 293-5160 for reservations.

         At the next Mennonite and Brethren Marriage Encounter weekend on April 16,17, 18 at the Signature Inn, Ft. Wayne, couples who have a good marriage will have the opportunity to grow in their love and appreciation for each other. Register now by contacting Carl and Elaine Newcomer, 5437 Rd 32 S., West Liberty, Ohio, 43357; phone, (937) 465-3366; email, cenewcomloganrec.com.

         Introducing the newest Alzheimer's caregiver support group in Elkhart County , starting March 18, 6:00-7:30 p.m., at Sailor Community Center on Hubbard Hill Estates. Entrance is off of County Road 24; the address is 28070 CR 24, Elkhart. Future meetings will be held on the third Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m.

         We invite anyone dealing with grief over the loss of a loved one to consider attending an educational and experiential discussion group meeting at Goshen General Hospital called ``Understanding Grief: A Collaborative Community Education and Support Series.'' The ten-week series starts March 18 and continues each Thursday evening at 7:00 p.m. through May 20, meeting at the hospital's Center for Cancer Care conference room.
        
         MCC meat canning report at the Depot: We cut up and processed 72,000 lb. of turkey thighs (39,347 cans of meat) at the cost of $.55 a can with a total of $21,640.85. We made 26 tons of soap from tallow which came from local Butcher shops. To all who helped in any way, we want to thank you! for your fine cooperation in the project this year. We still have some bills to pay, so if you haven't sent your contribution, please send it to Laban Hochstetler 59029 CR 35, Middlebury, IN 46540.
        
         MCC is in need of relief and health kits for Haiti. They can be dropped off at the Depot. For further information about what MCC is doing in Haiti and how you can help, visit them at www.mcc.org.

The first ever Wilderness Wind Corp Gala is being planned at The Retreat in Goshen for 6:00 p.m. March 28 . The fundraising dinner is to support the ministry of Wilderness Wind, a Mennonite camp based in Ely, Minn., but used by many Mennonites in Indiana, Ohio and Michigan. Tickets are $40. A raffle contest for a new canoe and a silent auction for numerous other items are being planned. For more information or to RSVP by the March 20 deadline please e-mail wildernesswindjuno.com or call 574-862-1993.

Our Church
Office Hours :     Tuesday-Friday
                  8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Statistical Report for March 7, 2004
         Attendance: 195

Today, March 14
         Greeters:        Eric and Lindsy Diener Meyer
                  Bob and Lorraine Pflederer
         Bulletins:                Jesse Kehr      
                  Nursery:                  Infant Galen & Mary Beth Spicher
                                    Toddler Curt & Sherry Wenger
                  Offering Counters:       Brian Campbell
                                             Ron Good
                  Audio/Video Operator: Phil Miller

Next Sunday, March 21
         Greeters:        Eric and Lindsy Diener Meyer
                           Bob and Lorraine Pflederer      
         Bulletins:       Jesse Kehr               
         Nursery:         Infant Marion & Meredith Yoder
                           Toddler Dick & Nancy Yoder
         Offering Counters: Barbara Eichorn
                                    Genie Kehr
         Audio/Video Operator: Phil Miller
________________________________________
Pastors: Anita Kehr; Dan Schrock; Heidi Siemens-Rhodes, intern
Phone: (574) 534-2398;   Email:
Web: berkeyavenue.in.us.mennonite2.net
Elders: Tom Albrecht, Beth Berry, Ginny Martin, Phil Miller, Peter Shetler, Roxanna Sommers

This Week
Today Baptism Exploration classes, nurture hour and 3:00-4:30.
Today Hosting week of Goshen Interfaith Hospitality Network starts at 4:45 p.m.
Monday Elders, 6:30 p.m.
Monday BWIF, 9:30 a.m. at Ruth Brenneman's
Tuesday PCRC, 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday Worship Team Coffeehouse Meal served at 6:00 p.m.

Fellowship and Caring Commission
         BAMF Food and Music Smorgasbord: Oh taste and see that the Lord is good! You are invited to share the food and music of Berkey Avenue at our fellowship meal and coffeehouse, this Wednesday, March 24, at 6:00 p.m. Taste the food prepared by the Fellowship and Caring Commission, and then sample the musical offerings prepared by a variety of BAMF folks, including collaborations by Chuck Hernley and Bryan Kehr, original songs by Greg Smucker, creative arrangements of familiar songs and hymns by the worship team, the BAMF children singing, and more. Invite your friends to this evening of fellowship and music! PLEASE NOTE Our church is hosting guests from Goshen Interfaith Hospitality Network so only the restrooms and nursery will be accessible in the back hallway. There will be childcare provided for children 3 years old and younger, so those older need to remain in the coffeehouse area with parental supervision. Come and enjoy!!! For more information contact Ruth Brenneman or Cindy Baker.

Worship Commission
         The Scriptures for the remaining worship services during Lent at Berkey Avenue are these:
         March 21 Luke 9:28-36; Jesus prays, renews his identity.
         March 28 Luke 13:1-9; Jesus addresses the news of the day.
         April 4 Passion Sunday Luke 22:39-53; Jesus prays, yields to evil, heals an enemy.
         April 11 Easter Luke 24:1-12 and Revelation 19: ( 1-5) 6-10; Jesus defeats evil and prepares a table.

Announcements
BAMF News        
        Last Sunday, today, and next week (March 14, 21, and 28) you can receive a Gifts Discernment form. We hope you will prayerfully begin to think about your own gifts and the gifts of other members in our congregation. We also encourage small groups to work together through the form so that your response becomes a more corporate kind of discernment.     Leadership Selection Commission

         A note about the Gifts Discernment forms and our congregational structure: You will note that there are two different kinds of surveys to fill out in the packet you have or will receive. The dark green sheet has the positions for which the Leadership Selection Committee (LSC) is responsible; they include the Commissions of the congregation as well as Conference delegates and the congregational secretary. Our constitution directs that these positions should be held by persons who are formal members of the congregation. That is why there is a list of congregational members stapled to the back of the packet. However, the neon green sheet lists many of the positionsformal and informalthat are needed to make our congregation work: MYF and Jr. Youth sponsors, gardeners, offering counters, greeters and those who hand out bulletins, Sunday School teachers, representatives to various agencies, and so on. Many of these are open to anyone who has been regularly attending and becoming involved in the congregation. They are very important to the healthy functioning of the congregation, and we encourage you to consider them carefully and prayerfully as much as you do with the Commission positions. Thanks much.
                  Anita Kehr

         If you or a family member will be graduating from high school, college, seminary, or another graduate program this spring, please inform Renae Yoder or the church office prior to April 15.

         Please see the adjusted numbers for the projected need for tuition support at Bethany Christian Schools on the back page of this newsletter. Remember that the deadline for giving to these funds is April 30.

Our Schools
         The Goshen College website (goshen.edu) has a devotional every day during Lent. Try it for enrichment.

         Goshen College presents Thirstborne , a dynamic Christian band of recent Hesston College alumni on Friday, April 2, at 9 p.m. in the Umble Center. General admission tickets are $8. For tickets call 535-7566. Thirstborne previously performed at the Mennonite Youth Convention in Atlanta and at the Indiana Youth Rally held at Westview High School.

         High School students: Discover Goshen College on April 2! Attend classes, talk with students and professors, tour campus, see Thirstborne and stay overnight! Register by calling 535-7535 or going online at www.goshen.edu/admission.

         College Scholarship availability: Looking for extra funds to help cover your college expenses? Interested in pursuing holistic stewardship in your life? Combine the two by applying for an MMA College Scholarship. Scholarships are available to current college students from Anabaptist congregations who own a qualifying MMA policy/product. For more information or an application, talk to Darin Short, our MMA advocate, visit MMA online (www.mma-online.org), or call 533-9511.

         Youth and youth sponsors are invited to attend the brush-up rehearsal of TORBA, the Goshen College Spring Mainstage, for FREE on Wednesday night, March 24. The story is based on the experiences of Amy Gopp, a young MCC peace worker who spent four years in the former Yugoslavia during the civil war there in the early 1990's. To reserve your seats, contact Amos Kratzer at Goshen College at 535-7528. The production opens on March 19 with repeat performances on March 20, 26, 27, and 28 for the public. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 8:00 p.m. and the Sunday matinee begins at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students. To reserve tickets for the show, call the Goshen College Welcome Center at 535-7566.

         ``Hard Cases: Confronting the Spirit World'' is a consultation planned at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary for Christian educators, medical personnel and pastors who encounter questions and needs that have to do with the nature of good and evil in human life. The consultation takes place April 15-17. For more information, contact Bev Sawatzky at AMBS, 296-6207 or bsawatzkyambs.edu.

Community Events
         Mennonite Mission Network has two immediate openings: 1) a full-time PC Technician to provide PC support and user training in the Elkhart office and 2) a Finance Assistant. More information is posted on the bulletin board.

         Habitat for Humanity of Elkhart County, Inc. is looking for people to sponsor bike riders. Six individuals, including Armand Martin, will be riding in the Cover Indiana Bicycle Tour April 25-May 1. They will be riding 320 miles from South Bend to Indianapolis. All money raised will go directly to our local affiliate to support the housing ministry. If you would like to help in this way, please call the Habitat office at 533-6109 for more information or email kirstenhabitatec.com. Thank you!

         A special ecumenical community worship service of remembrance takes place this evening, March 21, at Goshen City Church of the Brethren at 7:00 p.m. The purpose of the service is to mark the anniversary of the beginning of bombing in Iraq.

         The City of Goshen's Diversity Day celebration will be March 27 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. , at Maple City Chapel (the former Wal-Mart/ Hollywood Connections building beside Menards). Admission is free! Events include an entertainment stage (music and dance), a variety of food booths, children's activities, a free raffle, and more! Come to this unique event and celebrate Goshen's unique cultural and ethnic diversity!

         Celebrate with us at MDC Goldenrod's Annual dinner ! You are cordially invited to attend the MDC Goldenrod Annual Dinner on Tuesday, March 30, 6:00 p.m. at Pleasant View Mennonite Church. Hear Kathy Landis, director of Wilderness Wind, share about the uplifting experience the annual canoe trip is for the MDC Goldenrod Community and for her. Meet Goldenrod's new administrator, David Heusinkveld. To reserve your place at the Annual Dinner, please contact Robin at 533-9720, ext. 5, or send an e-mail to annualmeetinggoldenrodonline.org with the names, phone numbers, and number of persons attending.

         MCC is in need of relief and health kits for Haiti. They can be dropped off at the Depot. For further information about what MCC is doing in Haiti and how you can help, visit them at www.mcc.org.

         Jim Wallis, founder of Sojourners an organization of Christians for justice and peace and current editor-in-chief of Sojourners Magazine covering faith, politics and culture, will speak on ``Prophetic Politics in an Election Year'' at Goshen College on March 31 at 10:00 a.m. in the Church-Chapel and at 7:30 p.m. in Rieth Recital Hall in the Music Center. Both lectures are free and open to the public.
Our Church
Office Hours :     Tuesday-Friday
                  8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
        
Statistical Report for March 14, 2004
         Attendance: 239
        
Today, March 21
         Greeters:        Eric and Lindsy Diener Meyer
                  Bob and Lorraine Pflederer
         Bulletins:                Jesse Kehr      
                  Nursery:                  Infant Marion and Meredith Yoder
                                    Toddler Dick and Nancy Yoder
                  Offering Counters: Barbara Eichorn
Genie Kehr
                                                                      
                  Audio/Video Operator: Phil Miller

Next Sunday, March 28
         Greeters:        Eric and Lindsy Diener Meyer
                           Bob and Lorraine Pflederer      
         Bulletins:       Jesse Kehr               
         Nursery:         Infant Doug and Cindy Baker
                           Toddler André and Kate Swartley
         Offering Counters: Ruth Hathaway
                                   Anita Mounsithiraj
         Audio/Video Operator: Phil Miller
________________________________________
Pastors: Anita Kehr; Dan Schrock; Heidi Siemens-Rhodes, intern
Phone: (574) 534-2398;   Email:
Web: berkeyavenue.in.us.mennonite2.net
Elders: Tom Albrecht, Beth Berry, Ginny Martin, Phil Miller, Peter Shetler, Roxanna Sommers

This Week
Today Baptism Exploration classes, nurture hour and 3:00-4:30.
Today-Sunday Siloam Mennonite Fellowship is hosting Goshen Interfaith Hospitality Network at BAMF.
Monday Worship Commission, 7:00 p.m. at Armand Martin's
Tuesday BWIF, 9:30 a.m. at Patsy Sherer's
Wednesday MYF, 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday Jr. Youth, 6:30 p.m. (meet at Bethany Christian Schools)
Saturday Men's Breakfast, 7:00 a.m.

Worship Commission
         The Scriptures for the remaining worship services during Lent at Berkey Avenue are these:
March 28 Luke 13:1-5; Jesus addresses the news of the day.
April 4 Passion Sunday Luke 22:39-53; Jesus prays, yields to evil, heals an enemy.
April 11 Easter Luke 24:1-12 and Revelation 19: ( 1-5) 6-10; Jesus defeats evil and prepares a table.

         Please plan to attend the Maundy Thursday service on Thursday, April 8, if Spring Break hasn't lured you somewhere else. We will have a light meal and service of remembrance, all beginning at 6:00 p.m.

         Also, on Easter this year (April 11), we will not be having breakfast but we will be eating later in the morning. Come and celebrate the feast of the Lamb!

Fellowship and Caring Commission
         The Fellowship and Caring Commission is planning to place a monthly or bimonthly wholesale order to Equal Exchange (MCC U. S. Coffee Project) for fair trade coffee/tea/cocoa for the church fellowship and meal times. If you would also like to get fair trade items at wholesale prices with no shipping charges, we could place your order along with the church order and have you reimburse the church for your portion. We do have to order by the case so, depending on interest, we may be somewhat limited in what we order. Please talk to Shawna Born to express what your interests/needs are and we will see what we can work out!

Announcements
BAMF News        
         With joy, we announce that Allen Garboden was baptized on Saturday, March 20, at his home with a representation of his church family from Berkey Avenue with him.        Anita Kehr and Dan Schrock

         A ``thank you'' from the Glenn Spicher family is posted on the bulletin board for you to read.

         The Leadership Selection Committee and the elders are recommending the following five people to serve on the Building/Land Use Committee: Rick Stiffney (chairperson), Bill Born, Evie Nafziger, Lowell Nafziger, and Meredith Yoder. In the April 18 worship service, you will have a chance to affirm this group of people.

         The Jr. Youth will be meeting at Bethany Christian Schools at 6:30 p.m. this Wednesday, March 31. The evening will include recreation in the gym, a short Cornerstone Singers' program, and refreshments. The sponsors will arrange transportation home.

         If you or a family member will be graduating from high school, college, seminary, or another graduate program this spring, please inform Renae Yoder or the church office prior to April 15.

         Please see the adjusted numbers for the projected need for tuition support at Bethany Christian Schools on the back page of this newsletter. Remember that the deadline for giving to these funds is April 30.

         Have you had any problems contacting Anita, Dan, or Eleanor by e-mail? If so, please let us know! Two people in the congregation have recently been unable to contact us through our Juno addresses. If this problem continues, we want to know about it so that we can change to another service provider.

         Just a reminder that Jud Gingrich continues to collect pop cans to recycle for support of the Friends of the Wolof. You can bring your empty pop cans and place them in the container that is provided for this project in the entrance off of Jubilee Hall.

Our Schools
The 3rd Intercollegiate Women's Conference, ``Telling Our Stories,'' will be held at Goshen College on April 2 and 3. Along with feature presentations on sharing women's stories, small-group workshops will engage issues related to women's experience: Body Image, Eating Disorders, Sexuality, Relationships, Abuse, Reproduction, Self-Defense, and more. Presenters include Jan Bender Shetler who will speak on local histories from South Mara, Tanzania. For registration information, contact Sarah Roth at sarahergoshen.edu.

         College Scholarship availability: Looking for extra funds to help cover your college expenses? Interested in pursuing holistic stewardship in your life? Combine the two by applying for an MMA College Scholarship. Scholarships are available to current college students from Anabaptist congregations who own a qualifying MMA policy/product. For more information or an application, talk to Darin Short, our MMA advocate, visit MMA online (www.mma-online.org), or call 533-9511.

         Having joined the Indianapolis Peace House Program staff as Director of External Affairs in mid-February, former first lady of Indiana Judy O'Bannon will speak at Goshen College on March 30 at 4:00 p.m. in the Church-Chapel about ``Why Peace? Why Peace House?'' The event is free and open to the public. The Indianapolis Peace House of the Plowshares Peace Studies Program a collaboration of Earlham, Goshen, and Manchester colleges is a semester-long urban peacemaking experience for undergraduates from the three sponsoring institutions and other colleges and universities.

        Jim Wallis, founder of Sojourners an organization of Christians for justice and peace and current editor-in-chief of Sojourners Magazine , will speak on ``Prophetic Politics in an Election Year'' in Goshen College Rieth Recital Hall on March 31 at 7:30 p.m. Jim is an outstanding speaker, and is sure to be interesting, thought-provoking, and biblical.

Come join Professor Emerita of Music Mary Oyer at the Goshen College Hymnsing on Sunday, April 4, at 4:00 p.m. All are welcome to join in this final community hymnsing of the school year, held in Rieth Recital Hall of the Goshen College Music Center. At 7:30 p.m. in the Rieth Recital Hall, then, there will be a Chamber Music Festival. This is the final concert featuring student chamber ensembles.

The Goshen College website (goshen.edu) has a devotional every day during Lent. Try it for enrichment.

         Goshen College presents Thirstborne , a dynamic Christian band of recent Hesston College alumni on Friday, April 2, at 9:00 p.m. in the Umble Center. General admission tickets are $8. For tickets call 535-7566. Thirstborne previously performed at the Mennonite Youth Convention in Atlanta and at the Indiana Youth Rally held at Westview High School.

         High School students: Discover Goshen College on April 2! Attend classes, talk with students and professors, tour campus, see Thirstborne and stay overnight! Register by calling 535-7535 or going online at www.goshen.edu/admission.

         On April 2, the Goshen College Spring Choral Concert will take place at 7:00 p.m. in Sauder Concert Hall. This lighthearted April Fool's concert will include the Chorale, Chamber Choir, Men's Choir, and Women's Choir, and will be conducted by James Heiks and Debra Brubaker. Admission: $5 general, $3 seniors and students, GC students are free.

         Five-time Grammy-nominated folksinger John McCutcheon will perform two concerts at Goshen College's Music Center this Saturday, April 3. The performer Johnny Cash called ``the most impressive instrumentalist I've ever heard'' is a master of a dozen different traditional instruments, most notably the rare and beautiful hammer dulcimer. An afternoon ``family concert'' begins at 3:00 p.m., followed by an evening concert at 7:30 p.m. Both events benefit GC's Community School of the Arts and the Athletic Department. For ticket information, call the GC Welcome Center at 535-7566.

         ``Hard Cases: Confronting the Spirit World'' is a consultation planned at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary for Christian educators, medical personnel and pastors who encounter questions and needs that have to do with the nature of good and evil in human life. The consultation takes place April 15-17. For more information, contact Bev Sawatzky at AMBS, 296-6207 or bsawatzkyambs.edu.


Community Events
         Stepping out from Java and Bali! This afternoon from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the New World Center for the Arts (211 South Main Street, Goshen), Erin Wilson will lead an exploration of Indonesian dance through story, performance, and audience participation. Children are welcome. The suggested donation is $5 per adult.

         Reminder! MDC Goldenrod's Annual Dinner is this Tuesday, March 30, at 6:00 p.m. at Pleasant View Mennonite Church.

         Save a Life. Donate Blood. The American Red Cross blood drive will take place Monday, April 5, at the First Baptist Church, 1011 Indiana Avenue, from 12:00 noon to 6:00 p.m. Please call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE to schedule your blood donation appointment.

         The new Mennonite-Your-Way Hospitality Directory is now available. The directory offers nearly 1,500 host families who can provide travelers overnight hospitality in their homes in over 40 countries on a donation basis. For more information, see the flier posted on the bulletin board.

         Habitat for Humanity of Elkhart County, Inc. is looking for people to sponsor bike riders. Six individuals, including Armand Martin, will be riding in the Cover Indiana Bicycle Tour April 25-May 1. They will be riding 320 miles from South Bend to Indianapolis. All money raised will go directly to our local affiliate to support the housing ministry. If you would like to help in this way, please call the Habitat office at 533-6109 for more information or email kirstenhabitatec.com. Thank you!

         The annual Gospel Echoes Benefit Auction will be held at the Elkhart County Fairgrounds on Saturday, April 3, with a 7:00 a.m. breakfast and the auction beginning at 9:00 a.m. There is an open house on Friday, March 2, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. For more information, see the poster on the bulletin board.

         A JustPeace Institute Seminar will be held on April 17, 9:00 a.m.-12:40 p.m. at The Old Bag Factory on the third floor . Everyone is urged to bring glimpses of the real world (printed material, visuals, aurals, toys, fads and fashions) to which children are exposed daily. For more information or to register, see the flier on the bulletin board.

Our Church
Office Hours :     Tuesday-Friday
                  8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
        
Statistical Report for March 21, 2004
         Attendance: 260

Today, March 28
         Greeters:        Andrew and Lydia Martin
                  Bob and Lorraine Pflederer
         Bulletins:                Jesse Kehr      
                  Nursery:                  Infant Doug and Cindy Baker
                                    Toddler André and Kate Swartley
                  Offering Counters: Ruth Hathaway
Anita Mounsithiraj
                  Audio/Video Operator: Phil Miller

Next Sunday, April 4
         Greeter:         Verl Lehman     
         Bulletins:       Seth Grimes, Dick Yoder          
         Nursery:         Infant Phil and Connie Bauman
                           Toddler Tim and Jen Drescher
         Offering Counters: Steve Garboden
                                   Greg Smucker
         Audio/Video Operator: Ben Buckwalter
________________________________________
Pastors: Anita Kehr; Dan Schrock; Heidi Siemens-Rhodes, intern
Phone: (574) 534-2398;   Email:
Web: berkeyavenue.in.us.mennonite2.net
Elders: Tom Albrecht, Beth Berry, Ginny Martin, Phil Miller, Peter Shetler, Roxanna Sommers

This Week
Thursday Maundy Thursday Meal and Service, 6:00 p.m.

Worship Commission
         Please plan to attend the Maundy Thursday service this week, April 8, if Spring Break hasn't lured you somewhere else. We will have a light meal and service of remembrance, all beginning at 6:00 p.m.

         Also, on Easter this year (April 11), we will not be having breakfast but we will be eating later in the morning. Come and celebrate the feast of the Lamb!
         The Worship Commission is planning a resourcing and brainstorming workshop for anyone who is interested in participating in any of these worship areas: leading worship; leading singing; offering the children's time; preparing the visual environment for worship. This event is open for people with past, present, and future experience; MYFers are welcome to come! The workshop takes place on Sunday, April 25, beginning around 12:00 noon. Lunch will be provided. If you have found resources that have been helpful to you, bring them along to share with others! Please RSVP to the church office by April 18 if you'd like to attend. Thank you.

Fellowship and Caring Commission
         The Fellowship and Caring Commission is planning to place a monthly or bimonthly wholesale order to Equal Exchange (MCC U. S. Coffee Project) for fair trade coffee/tea/cocoa for the church fellowship and meal times. If you would also like to get fair trade items at wholesale prices with no shipping charges, we could place your order along with the church order and have you reimburse the church for your portion. We do have to order by the case so, depending on interest, we may be somewhat limited in what we order. Please talk to Shawna Born to express what your interests/needs are and we will see what we can work out!

Announcements
BAMF News
         A Tea Party Brunch for girls and women of all ages will take place on Saturday, May 8, 10:00 a.m. at Berkey Avenue Mennonite Fellowship. If you collect any tea-related items and would be willing to have them displayed, please see Susan Garboden. Watch for more details!

         Rather than scheduling a work day this spring the Trustees are asking that individuals and small groups volunteer for work projects that need to be done around the meetinghouse. These projects can be done at a time convenient for those doing the work within the coming month. Further details of available work projects will come soon.

         Jud Gingrich has agreed to serve as a BAMF Trustee, filling the position being vacated by Mark Pankratz. Ezra Hochstetler will serve as the Trustee Coordinator for the coming year. The next trustee meeting will take place on Sunday, April 18, at 7:45 a.m. Thank you to the trustees for all they do to facilitate and enable the work of the church!

         The Leadership Selection Committee and the elders are recommending the following five people to serve on the Building/Land Use Committee: Rick Stiffney (chairperson), Bill Born, Evie Nafziger, Lowell Nafziger, and Meredith Yoder. In the April 18 worship service, you will have a chance to affirm this group of people.

         Please see the adjusted numbers for the projected need for tuition support at Bethany Christian Schools on the back page of this newsletter. Remember that the deadline for giving to these funds is April 30.

Our Schools
         Thanks to all who participated in Bethany Christian Schools' Fun Fest with donations, volunteer help, and attendance at this annual event. Gross sales exceeded a record $83,000. You have graciously invested in this fundraiser which helps 25 percent of the student body to attend Bethany.

         BCHS Spring Fish Fry: Bethany Christian High School's Junior Class Fish Fry on April 23, is only a few weeks away! Come between the hours of 4:30 and 8:00 p.m. for an evening of fellowship, homemade pie, and all the fish you can eat. Tickets are available from all Bethany juniorsof which Berkey Avenue has fiveat the Bethany office, or at the door. The cost is $6.50 for adults and $4.00 for children in grades K-6. Preschool aged children are free. Carryout is available starting at 4:00 p.m. with adult tickets.
       
Come join Professor Emerita of Music Mary Oyer at the Goshen College Hymnsing today, April 4, at 4:00 p.m. All are welcome to join in this final community hymnsing of the school year, held in Rieth Recital Hall of the Goshen College Music Center. At 7:30 p.m. in the Rieth Recital Hall, then, there will be a Chamber Music Festival. This is the final concert featuring student chamber ensembles.

On April 16 at 8:00 p.m. the Goshen College Orchestra and Wind Ensemble will perform , preceded by the Wheaton (Illinois) High School orchestra from 7:15 to 7:45 p.m., in Sauder Concert Hall. The Goshen College Orchestra and Wind Ensemble, conducted by John Graulty, will perform works by Copland, Ponchielli, Weill, and Beethoven. Admission: $5 general, $3 seniors and students, GC students free.

Community Events
         The Michiana MEDA Members' Meeting and Dinner, A SPECIAL CELEBRATION , will be held on Tuesday, April 13, 6:30 p.m. at the Yellow Creek Mennonite Church. The last day to RSVP is Friday, April 9, by emailing Anthonyaslightsky.com or phoning 537-1776. Cost is $18 payable at the door.

         A JustPeace Institute Seminar will be held on April 17, 9:00 a.m.-12:40 p.m. at The Old Bag Factory on the third floor . Everyone is urged to bring glimpses of the real world (printed material, visuals, aurals, toys, fads and fashions) to which children are exposed daily. For more information or to register, see the flier on the bulletin board.

         Choice Books is having a spring clearance sale on Friday, April 23, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. and Saturday, April 24, 9:00 a.m.-12 noon. Choice Books is located in the MCC Depot.

         Amigo Centre is having a woodcutting day on April 24. We will start at 9:00 a.m. (Michigan time). Amigo will provide a lunch for you. Please bring your own saws and we supply the gas and oil for them. If you have a wood splitter or pickup that we could use, that would be helpful.

         Enjoy one or two nights at Indian Creek Bed and Breakfast while helping homeless families . During the months of May, June, and July, Indian Creek Bed and Breakfast will donate to Goshen Interfaith Hospitality Network 10 percent of the cost of your one or two night stay. Call 875-6606 or e-mail indiancreekbandbmsn.com to make reservations. You must have a coupon when making reservations and upon arrival. There are coupons on the top of the literature rack.


Our Church
Office Hours :     Tuesday-Friday
                  8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
        
Statistical Report for March 28, 2004
         Attendance: 183

Today, April 4
         Greeters:        Chuck Hernley   
                  Verdella Krabill
         Bulletins:                Seth Grimes, Dick Yoder         
                  Nursery:                  Infant Phil and Connie Bauman
                 Toddler Tim and Jen Drescher
                  Offering Counters: Steve Garboden
Greg Smucker
                  Audio/Video Operator: Ben Buckwalter

Next Sunday, April 11
         Greeter:         Chuck Hernley
                           Verdella Krabill        
         Bulletins:       Seth Grimes, Dick Yoder          
         Nursery:         Infant Steve and Susan Garboden
                           Toddler Dee Albrecht
                                             Monica Sherer
         Offering Counters:       Brian Campbell
                                   Ron Good
         Audio/Video Operator: Ben Buckwalter
________________________________________
Pastors: Anita Kehr; Dan Schrock; Heidi Siemens-Rhodes, intern
Phone: (574) 534-2398;   Email:
Web: berkeyavenue.in.us.mennonite2.net
Elders: Tom Albrecht, Beth Berry, Ginny Martin, Phil Miller, Peter Shetler, Roxanna Sommers

This Week
Monday BWIF, 9:30 a.m.
Monday Elders, 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday Stewardship and Finance Commission, 7:15 p.m.
Wednesday MYF, 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday Christian Education Commission, 7:00 p.m.
Next Sunday, April 18 Trustee Meeting, 7:45 a.m.

Worship Commission
         The Worship Commission is planning a resourcing and brainstorming workshop for anyone who is interested in participating in any of these worship areas: leading worship; leading singing; offering the children's time; preparing the visual environment for worship. This event is open for people with past, present, and future experience; MYFers are welcome to come! The workshop takes place on Sunday, April 25, beginning around 12:00 noon. Lunch will be provided. If you have found resources that have been helpful to you, bring them along to share with others! Please RSVP to the church office by April 18 if you'd like to attend.

Announcements
BAMF News
         Verl Lehman thanks anyone who had a thought or prayer for him while he was in the hospital.

         Thank you to Dee Albrechtwho designed the suspended crossand Evie Nafziger for the visual art in the sanctuary during Lent and Easter! Roxanna Sommers created the banner.

         Evening Song and Prayer will take place this Wednesday, April 14, 7:30 p.m., at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary. This service in the AMBS chapel combines scripture reading, singing, prayer, and silence. The Baptism Exploration Class and the MYF will be attending this service. If any others are interested in attending and carpooling, meet at the church by 7:05.
       
         The address and phone number for John Nussbaum is not correct in the new directories . The correct address is 58320 Crystal Springs Drive, Goshen, IN 46528 and the phone number is 533-4843 . John is planning to move on Saturday, April 24. Anyone who could help with the move would be much appreciated.

         A Tea Party Brunch for girls and women of all ages will take place on Saturday, May 8, 10:00 a.m. If you collect any tea-related items and would be willing to have them displayed, please see Susan Garboden. Watch for more details!

         Rather than scheduling a work day this spring the trustees are asking that individuals and small groups volunteer for work projects that need to be done around the meetinghouse. These projects can be done at a time convenient for those doing the work within the coming month. Further details of available work projects will come soon.
         The Leadership Selection Committee and the elders are recommending the following five people to serve on the Building/Land Use Committee: Rick Stiffney (chairperson), Bill Born, Evie Nafziger, Lowell Nafziger, and Meredith Yoder. You will be able to affirm this group of people next week.

         Stabat, the a capella men's group that sang at Berkey Avenue several weeks ago, will give a concert on Sunday evening, April 18, in the Rieth Recital Hall in the Goshen College Music Center. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Justin Heinz, Luke Mullet, and André Swartley are members of this ensemble.

         Attorney of Law and Goshen College Professor of Political Science Lee Roy Berry, Jr. will present the lecture, ``The Problem of Assimilation: Mennonites, African-Americans, and the U.S. Constitution,'' on Tuesday, April 20 at 7:00 p.m. in Newcomer Center 17. The lecture is free and open to the public.

         Habitat for Humanity of Elkhart County, Inc. is looking for people to sponsor bike riders. Six individuals, including Armand and Ginny Martin, will be riding in the Cover Indiana Bicycle Tour April 25-May 1 . They will be riding 320 miles from South Bend to Indianapolis. All money raised will go directly to our local affiliate to support the housing ministry. If you would like to help in this way, please call the Habitat office at 533-6109 for more information or e-mail kirstenhabitatec.com.

         Please see the adjusted numbers for the projected need for tuition support at Bethany Christian Schools on the back page of this newsletter. Remember that the deadline for giving to these funds is April 30 .

Our Schools
         On April 16 at 8:00 p.m. the Goshen College Orchestra and Wind Ensemble will perform , preceded by the Wheaton (Illinois) High School orchestra from 7:15 to 7:45 p.m., in Sauder Concert Hall. Admission: $5 general, $3 seniors and students, GC students free.

         Bethany Christian High School's Junior Class Fish Fry on April 23 is only a few weeks away! Come between the hours of 4:30 and 8:00 p.m. for an evening of fellowship, homemade pie, and all the fish you can eat. Tickets are available from all Bethany juniorsof which Berkey Avenue has five at the Bethany office, or at the door. The cost is $6.50 for adults and $4.00 for children in grades K-6. Preschool aged children are free. Carryout is available starting at 4:00 p.m. with adult tickets.

Community Events
         JustPeace Institute Seminar will be held on April 17, 9:00 a.m.-12:40 p.m. at The Old Bag Factory on the third floor . Everyone is urged to bring glimpses of the real world (printed material, visuals, aurals, toys, fads and fashions) to which children are exposed daily. For more information or to register, see the flier on the bulletin board.

         The first graduation class of ASSETS of Elkhart County received their certificates on April 1, 2004 at the AMBS Lambright Center. Eleven individuals or couples were recognized; these entrepreneurs are starting businesses that range from a clay art studio to a German restaurant. ASSETS is a training program founded by Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA) which provides opportunities primarily to low and moderate income individuals for business training, mentoring, a support network, and assistance with loans. Perhaps you or someone you know would like to receive training. You may obtain more information at infoassetselkhart.org or call 361-8213. Berkey Avenue MEDA members, such as Ron Good, Ora Troyer, or Lowell Nafziger, may be able to answer questions as well.

         Next Saturday, April 17, is the date for the Spring Sale of the Habitat for Humanity ReStore. The store sells quality, donated materials to generate funds to support Habitat's mission to build affordable housing. Nearly all the new and used building supplies and decorating materials in the store will be offered at 50 percent off the already discounted prices. The sale begins at 9:00 a.m. and lasts until 4:00 p.m. The ReStore also needs occasional volunteers to pick up donated materials, prepare and move inventory in the store, and help customers during regular store hours.
        
         Choice Books is having a spring clearance sale on Friday, April 23, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. and Saturday, April 24, 9:00 a.m.-12 noon. Choice Books is located in the MCC Depot.

         Do you have plans for April 23-24? Due to unexpected openings, Amigo Centre is offering a low-cost weekend of relaxation and retreat perfect for individuals, families, small groups, and Sunday School classes. For more information check the bulletin board, call (269) 651-2811, or e-mail infoamigocentre.org.

         Amigo Centre is having a woodcutting day on April 24. We will start at 9:00 a.m. (Michigan time). Amigo will provide a lunch for you. Please bring your own saws and we supply the gas and oil for them. If you have a wood splitter or pickup that we could use, that would be helpful.

         Mark your calendar for the 2004 Oasis retreat for family, friends and care givers of loved ones with mental illness. The retreat will be held on Friday evening, May 14, 7:00-9:00 p.m. and Saturday, May 15, 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. at Oaklawn in Goshen. Keynote speaker will be Dale Raber. Galen Kauffmann, a Goshen attorney, will have a session on long tem care/special needs trusts. See the poster on the bulletin board for details.

         Mennonite Central Committee Great Lakes is recruiting for the position of Assistant Director/ Resource Development Manager . This two-year, full-time, salaried position is based in Goshen. This person will be responsible for oversight to the work of peace and justice, resource generation, and office responsibilities, and will supervise staff involved in those areas. This person will be responsible to meet with constituent churches, organizations, and individuals to provide information regarding giving to MCC. Initiative, cross-cultural communication skills, a talent for building information and action coalitions are crucial to this role. Fax resume to (717) 859-2171 or e-mail psdmcc.org or phone Prem Dick or Anna Reimer at (717) 859-1151.

         Enjoy one or two nights at Indian Creek Bed and Breakfast while helping homeless families . During May, June, and July, Indian Creek Bed and Breakfast will donate 10 percent of the cost of your one or two night stay to Goshen Interfaith Hospitality Network. E-mail indiancreekbandbmsn.com or call 875-6606 to make reservations. You must have a coupon when making reservations and upon arrival. Coupons are on the top of the literature rack.

Our Church
Office Hours :     Tuesday-Friday;
                  8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Statistical Report for April 4, 2004
         Attendance: 176
        
Today, April 11
         Greeters:        Chuck Hernley, Verdella Krabill
         Bulletins:                Seth Grimes, Dick Yoder         
                  Nursery:                  Infant Steve and Susan Garboden
                 Toddler Dee Albrecht
                                    Monica Sherer
                  Offering Counters:       Brian Campbell, Ron Good
                  Audio/Video Operator: Ben Buckwalter
Next Sunday, April 18
         Greeters:        Jesse and Genie Kehr
                           Verdella Krabill        
         Bulletins:       Seth Grimes, Dick Yoder          
         Nursery:         Infant Bill and Shawna Born
                           Toddler Allan and Laura Sue Dueck
         Offering Counters:       Barbara Eichorn, Genie Kehr
         Audio/Video Operator: Ben Buckwalter
________________________________________
Pastors: Anita Kehr; Dan Schrock; Heidi Siemens-Rhodes, intern
Phone: (574) 534-2398;   Email:
Web: berkeyavenue.in.us.mennonite2.net
Elders: Tom Albrecht, Beth Berry, Ginny Martin, Phil Miller, Peter Shetler, Roxanna Sommers

Called to be Christ's loving, healing, caring presence

From the Pastor(al Intern)
One of my learning goals for this semester is to experience preaching a series of three sermons. I've chosen to preach on prayer, and here's an overview of this Sunday and the next two:
Today, April 18: Embodied Prayer --How do we pray with our whole person, both spirit and body?
April 25: Listening Prayer --Slowing down to hear God can easily fall between the cracks of our busy schedules. We will have a Taizé-style contemplative service, during which we will pray in song, in silence, and in intercession for our collective concerns. There will also be an opportunity for praying silently around the cross. Rather than preaching a full-length sermon, I will lead worship and offer a meditation within the context of our praying together.
May 2: Praying the Word --The Bible is a rich resource for us as we seek to know our Creator. We will look at the spiritual practice of lectio divina , which is one way to combine Bible reading and prayer.
As we explore prayer together, I would love to hear your prayer stories, as well as comments you may have for me as I continue to develop my preaching and worship leading skills. May these weeks be a time of renewal in our prayer practices.
         Heidi

This Week
Monday Fellowship and Caring Commission, 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday BWIF, 9:30 a.m. at Jennifer
Schrock's house
Wednesday MYF, 7:00 p.m.
Thursday Coordinating Meeting, 6:30 p.m.
<!--- Drawn Shape (ignored==not implemented yet)<!=== Next Sunday, April 25 Worship Workshop, 12:00 noon

Happy Day!
        Berkey Avenue is now the official owner of the property adjacent to the parking lot and north of the red barn. The closing took place on Friday morning, April 16, in a meeting with Roger and Earlene Nofzigerto whom we're very grateful!and representatives of our congregation.

Worship Commission
        The Worship Commission is planning a resourcing and brainstorming workshop for anyone who is interested in participating in any of these


worship areas: leading worship; leading singing; offering the children's time; preparing the visual environment for worship. This event is open for people with past, present, and future experience; MYFers are welcome to come! The workshop takes place next Sunday, April 25, beginning around 12:00 noon. Lunch will be provided. If you have found resources that have been helpful to you, bring them along to share with others! Please RSVP to the church office today if you'd like to attend.

         Thank you to Armand Martin, Evie Nafziger, Jennifer, Peter, and Nicholas Schrock, and Patsy Sherer for helping to set up the meetingroom for the Easter service. Also, thank you to Dan Schrock, who was the Chief Baker, Cook, and Procurer for last week's ``eschatological banquet''!

Christian Education Commission
In February we handed out surveys on adult Christian education in our congregation. Here's a report of what we learned.
1.       People took the survey seriously. 70 people completed the survey and returned it to us. This is a good response for which we are grateful.
2.       Our congregation's worship services are important to most people. 83 percent ranked worship as their first or second most important source of Christian nurture.
3.       People are receiving spiritual nurture from many different places and in many different ways. In addition to worship, people are finding Christian nurture from adult Sunday school classes, personal Bible study, religious publications, a wide variety of small groups, radio, music, tapes, college and seminary classes, spiritual direction, church conferences and committees, friendships, and their marriage. This variety is a sign of spiritual health.
4.       A significant group of people is interested in having nurture classes that explore spiritual disciplines and practices.
5.       As the congregation pursues the possibility of expanding and remodeling our building, we clearly need to create quieter spaces for adult classes. Quite a few people observed that noise from other classes and from the fellowship hall deters their ability to concentrate.
6.       While not everyone chooses to attend adult classes, those who do attend find the classes to be worthwhile sources of nurture. We detect more willingness to experiment with new and different things during the summer than during the rest of the year.
7.       You gave us many wonderful, diverse suggestions. Thank you.

Below you will find two important articles for you to read and consider. Please take the time to do so!

From the Elders and Pastors
         At the February congregational meeting, Dan introduced a Mission Document that the elder team and Mission Commission had helped to develop. Those of you who were not at the congregational meeting should have received a copy in your mailbox soon afterward. In the next few weeks, the elders are inviting each of you to participate in considering this statement. We want to hear what you affirm, what you question, what thoughts are provoked in you as you read it.
         Beginning on Sunday, May 2, and continuing each evening through Wednesday, May 5, there will be gatherings with elders to have this discussion and consideration. There are sign-up sheets on the rectangular table in the fellowship hall , along with the trustees' sign-up sheet. These meetings are for everyonethose who have been at Berkey for two weeks as well as those who have been here for 20 years!
         If you are in a small group and your group decides that you want to discuss this as a small group, that's great! There's a place to sign up for that, too. We would like to have an elder present at each of the discussions so that we can record what we hear and, if needed, facilitate the conversation. So the small group sign-up sheet also has a place for ``meeting times'' so that we can coordinate having an elder present with you as well.
         If your mission document disappeared somewhere at your house or if you don't remember ever having seen one, there are extra copies on the same table as the sign-up sheets. There will also be copies available at each meeting, although it would be good if you could read ahead.
         We hope that these discussions will be beneficial to the spiritual health of our congregation as we seek to participate with God in whatever we are being called to. Thanks very much!

From the Youth Sponsors and Teachers
Many things about our work with youth are going well. We have excellent youth whom we care about deeply. We feel good about our nurture hour sessions with them on Sunday mornings and about our social activities and service projects during the week.
We write this article because our two youth groups are getting larger. Beginning this September, we will have 27 youth in the MYF and 24 in the JYFand that's only counting the youth who are presently attending our congregation! The size of our youth groups could become even larger if new youth or families come. So, this fall we will have at least 51 youth between the ages of 12 and 18. Since our average attendance is about 200, this represents one-fourth of our congregation.
Size matters. One way the larger size matters is that it's harder to get everything done that we believe ought to be done to work well with our youth. We enjoy what we've been doing and we want to keep on doing what we've been doing. But we're wondering about additional help with some things we'd like to accomplish but haven't had time to do. We want to share our desires with you and then hear your comments, questions, and thoughts.
1.       Since one quarter of BAMF's average attendance is youth, could we have some clearly designated pastoral time? This could be from a pastor, or even from an elder whose special focus is on youth. Ideally someone might visit individually with each young person twice a year and assist in situations needing extra care such as youth with disabilities, crisis conversation in the event of a tragedy, public/ private school dynamics, mentor-mentee dynamics, etc.
2.       We need someone to finish developing an overall yet flexible game plan for what issues and training we want to expose our youth to during their seven years in our groups. This includes not only a plan for the Sunday morning curriculum, but for activities and service projects.
3.       We hope for someone to work more on developing leadership skills in the youth and integrating them into church life.
4.       We'd like help planning the worship and spiritual life focus during MYF live-ins. We do well at planning everything else during live-ins, but this adds another layer that challenges us.
5.       We wish for better record-keeping. This includes both cataloging resources for leaders to use and also recording what we've done in our youth groups that has worked well and not so well. One model is the set of excellent records the Fellowship and Caring Commission keeps.
6.       Families with children in both youth groups are asking for better scheduling and coordinating of activities. We think this could happen effectively if someone were involved in both groups.
7.       We'd like help forming a larger vision for our youth and setting prioritiesand then developing a budget that flows from that.
8.       It would be nice to have help in thinking about how sponsors are chosen (and how they make transitions in and out of our groups), what their job description is, and how they coordinate with nurture hour teachers.
         These eight things include pastoral care and administrative skills. Any of us would be glad to talk with you more about our desires or to hear your suggestions. Let us hear from you within the next two weeks, by Sunday, May 9.
John and Lois Mast, Joy and Rick Hostetter, Anita and Tavi Mounsithiraj, Cindy and Doug Baker, Anita and Dale Snyder, and Dan Schrock

This Week
Today Worship Workshop, 12:00 noon
Monday BWIF, 9:30 a.m. at Sherry Wenger's
Monday Elders, 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday Jr. Youth, 7:00-8:30 p.m. at John Mast's
Saturday IN-MI Conference Women's Meeting at Berkey Avenue, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 noon.




Stewardship and Finance Commission
In your mailboxes you will find the Estimated Giving Forms for the 2004-05 budget year. We would appreciate receiving the filled-out forms in the offering on May 16 (in three weeks). If you won't be there that Sunday you may give your form to anyone on the Stewardship and Finance Commission: Steve Garboden, Ruth Hathaway, John Nussbaum, Curt Wenger.

Announcements
BAMF News
         The Jr. Youth will meet on Wednesday, April 28, 7:00-8:30 p.m., at Lois and John Mast's house.

         The Shout for Joy Children's Choir Spring Concert will be next Sunday, May 2, 7:00 p.m. in the Reith Recital Hall. The admission is: $5 general and $3 for seniors and students. Several children from Berkey Avenue participate in this choir.

         Baptism Sunday is now scheduled for May 16 . We will not have Sunday school that day.

         If you would like to have the book, Following In His Footsteps , written by Alvin and Goldie Hostetler, please sign up on the paper on the bulletin board by the literature rack. This book contains their life story, poems written by Goldie, and pictures. The cost will be approximately $12.00.

         ``First Place'' is a bible-based weight loss plan , and a new group is being formed at Berkey Avenue to study together and support one another. Men and women interested in participating are invited to attend the orientation meeting to be held at the church on Thursday, April 29 at 7:00 p.m. Bring friends! The first regular session will begin on Thursday, May 13. There's a book on the literature rack for you to look at if you are interested in this weight loss plan. If you have any questions, see Mary Gilliom or Barb Smucker.

         A Tea Party Brunch for girls and women of all ages will take place on Saturday, May 8, at 10:00 a.m. If you collect any tea-related items and would be willing to have them displayed, please see Susan Garboden. A sign-up sheet is in the fellowship hall for you to sign if you are planning to attend.

         Please see the numbers for the projected need for tuition support at Bethany Christian Schools on the back page of this newsletter. Remember that the deadline for giving to these funds is April 30 .

Our Schools
         The Goshen High School orchestra's final concert of the year takes place this afternoon at 3:00 p.m. Several Berkey Avenue students will be performing.

         Organist Shirley Sprunger King will present an organ recital and lead a hymn sing focused on music of Easter today at 4:00 p.m. in the chapel at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary. Shirley is a former professor of music at Bethel College, North Newton, Kansas and is a member of the American Guild of Organists.
        
         In a world premiere of her new performance, Rabbi Lynn Gottlieb will present ``Preoccupied: A Travel Journey of Betrayal and Hope in the Holy Land'' in her unique style of storytelling theater at Goshen College on April 29 at 7:00 p.m. in Newcomer Center 19. This event is free and open to the public. Gottlieb will share stories she heard from people on many sides of a growing divide between Jews and Palestinians. She travels the terrain of brutality and betrayal, hope and courage that shape the landscape Palestinians and Jews inhabit in America, and Israel, Gaza, the West Bank and Lebanon.

         Bethany Christian Middle School presents ``Things My Mother Said'' by Evie Nafziger on April 30 and May 1 at 7:00 p.m. This is a coming-of-age drama about middle schoolers seeking their independence amid humor and the confusion of life at school awkwardly doing their best to fit in, fend off gossip, and handle relationships as they prepare for a school lock-in. Tickets are $4.00 for adults and $2.00 for students. For reservations, call 534-2567. Those from Berkey Avenue who have a part in this drama are: Evie Nafziger (the playwright), Andrea Born (stage managing), Elias Kehr, Jay Mast, Joel Nafziger, Mary Roth, and Andrew Shenk.

Community Events
         Glen Stassen will speak on ``Just Peacemaking as Terrorism Prevention'' this evening at 7:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 333 North Main Street in South Bend. Stassen is Professor of Christian Ethics at Fuller Theological Seminary and has been instrumental in convening an interdisciplinary group of 23 scholars who, over five years, developed ``just peacemaking theory.'' This approach presents practical, realistic, proven steps for peacemaking in conflict situations. Stassen is a scholar, practitioner, and visionary. This event is sponsored by the Center for Peace and Nonviolence. For more information, call 291-0924.

         For nature lovers of all ages who enjoy Indiana's beautiful landscape, Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center's first annual NatureFest will be an earthly treat on April 30 and May1. The weekend activities for adults and children include exploring local geology, investigating a wetland, learning about sustainable building, experimenting with organic gardening, and listening to guest performers Will Redding, a well-known storyteller and naturalist, and Les Gustafson-Zook, world champion autoharp performer. For costs and registration, contact Dave Miller at (260) 799-5869 or davejmgoshen.edu.

         The Indiana-Michigan Conference Mennonite Women's Spring Meeting takes place this Saturday, May 1, here at Berkey Avenue. The meetings begin at 9:00 and end at 12:00 noon.

         The Goshen Community Chorale presents their spring program on Saturday, May 1, 7:30 p.m., at Trinity United Methodist Church, Elkhart and on Sunday, May 2, 3:00, at the First Presbyterian Church, Goshen. Half of the program will be Alice Parker's arrangements of music from the Harmonia Sacra . A flyer is on the bulletin board.

         The local Immigration Task Force of Indiana-Michigan Mennonite Conference and Central District Conference invites you to an informative gathering on Thursday, May 6, 7:00 p.m. at North Goshen Mennonite Church. The agenda includes:
·         Living out the new Mennonite Immigration resolution (adopted last summer in Atlanta)
·         Learning how the issue of immigration is affecting our community of Goshen
·         Hearing stories of recent immigrants to Goshen
·         Finding practical ways your congregation can respond
If anyone from our congregation is interested in attending, please let Anita or Dan know.

         Looking for something worthwhile to do on Saturday May 8? LaCasa's Help-A-House 2004 needs your support! LaCasa is looking for volunteers, financial sponsorsand even pancake eatersto make this year's Community Work Day a success. The day will begin with a Pancake Breakfast hosted by the Exchange Club at St. Mark's Methodist Church. And then, volunteers will be needed to repair 13 homes, carrying out a variety of tasks. Skilled crew leaders will supervise each work site, and lunch and snacks will be provided, thanks to contributions from local sponsors. Please contact Bonnie or Karen at LaCasa, 533-4450, to volunteer or sponsor a house.

         The 2004 Oasis Retreat of families and friends of loved ones with mental illness will be held at Oaklawn on Friday evening, May 14, and Saturday, May 15, 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. The deadline to register for this retreat will be May 10. Brochures will be available at your church. Contact Robert Pflederer for more information. Speakers will be Dale Raber, Oaklawn therapist, Galen Kauffmann, Goshen attorney, and the managing editor of the Goshen News, Gerry Hertzler.

         Volunteers are needed May 14-15 to re-roof the building where House of Power Mennonite Church meets in Elkhart. Martin Brothers Building will coordinate the work on-site. Your help is needed to remove old shingles and put down new ones. Compressors, flat shovels, and staple guns would be helpful. Rain date is the next week. Contact Biff Weidman at 295-1488 if you can help.
        
         Enjoy one or two nights at Indian Creek Bed and Breakfast while helping homeless families . During May, June, and July, Indian Creek Bed and Breakfast will donate 10 percent of the cost of your one or two night stay to Goshen Interfaith Hospitality Network. E-mail indiancreekbandbmsn.com or call 875-6606 to make reservations. You must have a coupon when making reservations and upon arrival. Coupons are on the top of the literature rack.

         Summer is swiftly approaching and Amigo Centre still has staff positions open. It takes 20-30 summer staff to have a healthy, well-run summer program. We need your help in finding suitable candidates for these remaining summer staff positions: Summer Office Manager, Male Head Counselor, Male Counselors (as many as four or more), Female Counselors (as many as three or more), Health Officer, Outdoor/Environmental Education Assistant, Worship and Recreation Coordinator, Arts & Crafts Leader, Lifeguard (one more needed), Kitchen Staff (one more needed), Dining Hall Staff (one more needed). Visit www.amigocentre.org/summerjobs.html for an application and information on age requirements, schedule, salary, and more or call Amigo Centre at (269) 651-2811.

         Dementia Caregiver Orientation Program: This is a free education program for families who have had a loved one recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia. This is a three-part series held at the Wakarusa Public Library, on the Mondays of May 10, 17, and 24, 7:00-8:30 p.m. For more information see the brochure on the bulletin board.
Our Church
Office Hours :     Tuesday-Friday;
                  8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Statistical Report for April 18, 2004
         Attendance: 223
Today, April 25

This Week
Tuesday BWIF, 9:30 a.m. at the Trolley Café
Tuesday PCRC, 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday Stewardship and Finance Commission, 7:15 p.m.
Wednesday MYF, 7:00 p.m.
Thursday First Place Weight Support group, 6:30 p.m.
Next Sunday evening Poetry Reading with Chuck Hernley, 6:30 p.m.


Stewardship and Finance Commission
Please put your completed Estimated Giving Forms for the 2004-05 budget year in John Nussbaum's mailbox before leaving for the pond for the baptismal service today. If you don't have your form, there are some on the literature rack.

Announcements
BAMF News
         Praise God that the plans for Vacation Bible School to be held here June 7-10 are progressing well . Registration within the congregation is basically finished. Think about other friends and neighbors whom you could invite to join us. Ask Brenda for invitations to distribute. We still could use more help, particularly with acting out the dramas. JYFers and MYFers are welcome to help!

         A thank-you note from Deb and Steve Johns has been posted on the bulletin board for you to read.

         Next Sunday evening at 6:30 p.m. there will be a poetry reading at Berkey Avenue featuring Chuck Hernley's work . Plan to attend and enjoy listening and singing and fellowshipping together.

         Attention Walkers! We have moved our walking group to Monday evening at 7:45 at the Millrace. We will meet at the Rieth Interpretive Center parking lot. We hope to see you there!

         Change of Address: Mitch, Heidi, and Theo Siemens-Rhodes are moving to 618 S. 5 ^th St., Goshen 46526. Their new telephone number will be 534-8055. These changes will go into effect Saturday, May 22, their moving day! If you could help with the move from Elkhart , please let them know (295-9508, mitchheidiyahoo.com).

         The children's summer Sunday school planning committee is looking for people who have lived in other countries to come and share their experiences for one or two Sundays with the kindergarten-5 ^th grade Sunday school class. This may involve making a snack commonly eaten in the country, leading the kids in a craft, showing objects made in the country, telling stories about the experience, telling about the organization that supported you, or any other creative things you can think of. This class will have a regular teacher so the person speaking will not have full responsibility for them.
If you are interested, please contact Evan Bontrager, Sondra Eby, or Nancy Yoder.       


<!--- Drawn Shape (ignored==not implemented yet)<!===

will not have full responsibility for them. If you are interested please
Our Schools
         The Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary Ensemble will present a vocal concert this afternoon at 4:00 p.m. in the Chapel of the Sermon on the Mount. Rebecca Slough directs.

         Bethany Christian High School's Key Club is collecting used digital cell phones. Ecophones is an organization that will recycle the phones and give the Key Club $3 for each one. If you have a retired digital (not analog) phone that you would like to donate, please take it to Bethany's front office.

         Rabia Harris, founder and coordinator of the Muslim Peace Fellowship, will speak at Goshen College about ``Islam: Beyond Religion and Politics'' at 7:30 p.m. on May 18 in the Administration Building, Room 28. Her presentation, which is free and open to the public, will be followed by an opportunity for questions and answers.

         The commencement service for AMBS is scheduled for Friday, May 21, beginning at 7:30 p.m. at College Mennonite Church in Goshen. James Schrag, executive director of Mennonite Church USA Executive Board, will present the address. The public is invited to join in celebrating with 35 graduates and their families.

         Don't miss Bethany Christian Schools' 50 ^th Anniversary Celebration! Register now to attend the 6:30 Saturday evening banquet on June 12, hosted by Jen (Helmuth '89) Shenk and Jon Helmuth ('89), with storytelling by Marvin ('65) and Lee (Weaver '65) Schmucker, a through-the-years fashion show, a faculty roast and more! For registration and information, visit www.bethanycs.net or call 534-2567.

Community Events
         A gathering of those committed to earth care will be held May 18 at 7:00 p.m. at Waterford Mennonite Church. The meeting will begin with a short hike, followed by a time of forming friendships with others who care for the earth. There will be opportunities to discuss what energizes us to have a smaller ecological footprint. Bring your own cup, bowl, and spoon for ice cream. The meeting is sponsored by Earth Group, people from area Mennonite churches. For more information, email lukeaggoshen.edu or jcmartenssprynet.com.

         Mennonite Mission Network Auxiliary will meet in the Koinonia Room in the Elkhart MMN office for a program and carry-in luncheon at 12:00 noon on Monday, May 24. Regina Shands Stoltzfus, Director of Urban Ministry, will speak.

         Open House at Yellow Creek Mennonite Church Day Care: You are invited to come for an evening full of information on Tuesday, May 25, any time from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. regarding the opening of their day care center in October. For more information, see the flier on the bulletin board.

        Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission invites you to a banquet celebrating AIMM's history and God's leading in future partnerships with African churches on Saturday, June 5, at Silverwood Mennonite Church. Siaka Traore, vice president of the Mennonite Church of Burkina Faso, will speak. The fellowship begins at 3:30 p.m. and the program at 4:15. Wear African attire if desired. Call 875-5552, or write to aimmaimmintl.org by May 15. An offering will be taken.

Our Church
Office Hours :    Tuesday-Friday;
                8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Statistical Report for May 9, 2004
        Attendance: 218

Today, May 16

This Week
Monday BWIF, 9:30 a.m. at Bread and Chocolate
Monday Elders, 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday Mission Commission, 7:00 p.m.
Thursday First Place Weight Support group, 6:30 p.m.

Elders
         Our next congregational meeting will take place on Wednesday evening, June 2, at 7:00 p.m. Please look for the agenda of the meeting in your mailboxes today! We hope you plan to attend.
Fellowship and Caring Commission
         The Fellowship and Caring Commission is planning a Graduation tea on June 6 during the fellowship time following the worship service. We need 16 people to each bring three dozen cookies for the event. Would you be willing to help in this way? If so, please contact Shawna Born by email at born5ininhotmail.com or by phone at 533-5517.

Announcements
BAMF News
         This evening at 6:30 p.m. there will be a poetry reading here at the meetinghouse featuring Chuck Hernley's work . Plan to attend and enjoy listening and singing and fellowshipping together.

         This week Greg Smucker will be moving his business, Snyder Paints, into the new building. If you would like to help move, call 534-2979 and leave a message if no one's at home. You can help during the evening or on Memorial Day weekend when the major part of the move will occur.

         There is a letter posted on the bulletin board from Rebecca Slough, AMBS Field Education Director, thanking Berkey Avenue for being a ``teaching congregation'' for Heidi Siemens-Rhodes.

         The children's summer Sunday school planning committee is looking for people who have lived in other countries to come and share their experiences for one or two Sundays with the kindergarten-5 ^th grade Sunday school class. This may involve making a snack commonly eaten in the country, leading the kids in a craft, showing objects made in the country, telling stories about the experience,
telling about the organization that supported you, or any other creative things you can think of. This class will have a regular teacher so the person speaking will not have full responsibility for them.
If you are interested, please contact Evan Bontrager, Sondra Eby, or Nancy Yoder.       

Our Schools
         In conjunction with the Bethany Christian Schools' 50 ^th Anniversary Celebration, a history book, Hearing Our Teacher's Voice: Pursuit of Faithfulness at Bethany Christian Schools, will be released on June 11. Order yours at the pre-publication price of $14.95 before May 28 and pick it up during the anniversary weekend activities to save shipping charges. For order information and event registration, visit www.bethanycs.net or call 534-2567.

         Commencement services at Bethany Christian Schools take place on Sunday, May 30, at 3:00 p.m. in the school's gymnasium. Alumni, family members, and friends are welcome.

         Commencement services at Goshen High School take place on Sunday, June 6, at 2:00 in the afternoon in the school's gymnasium.

         Six summer courses are offered at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary during the first half of June. To see information about these and a complete list of all summer courses, see the AMBS web site, www.ambs.edu, select Academic Information, then Courses, then Summer 2004.     
        
Community Events
         This afternoon at 2:00 p.m., Yellow Creek Mennonite Church will have a Service of Dedication for their new and renovated church facilities. There will be an open house from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.

         The Mennonite Mission Network Auxiliary will meet in the Koinonia Room at the Elkhart MMN offices for a program and carry-in luncheon at 12:00 noon on Monday, May 24. Regina Shands Stoltzfus, Director of Urban Ministry, will speak. All are welcome.

         Open House at Yellow Creek Mennonite Church Day Care: You are invited to come for an evening full of information this Tuesday, May 25, any time from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. regarding the opening of their day care center in October. For more information, see the flier on the bulletin board.

         Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission invites you to a banquet celebrating AIMM's history and God's leading in future partnerships with African churches on Saturday, June 5, at Silverwood Mennonite Church. Siaka Traore, vice president of the Mennonite Church of Burkina Faso, will speak. The fellowship begins at 3:30 p.m. and the program at 4:15. Wear African attire if desired. Call 875-5552, or write to aimmaimmintl.org by May 15. An offering will be taken.

         If you are interested in the MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Program, there is information posted on the bulletin board for you to read. It explains what MOPS is, how to register or volunteer, and the new Teen MOPS group that is to begin.

Mennonite Mission Network is looking for well-qualified employees to fill the following two positions. For more information about either one, please call the Human Resources department at 523-3008, or email a letter of interest and your resumé to staffrecruitmentmennonitemission.net.
Assistant for Europe and International Personnel Counselor: A person is needed immediately to work full time in a combined position assisting the director for Europe and the personnel counselor in working with international applicants and workers. This Great Lakes Office (Elkhart) position provides administrative services and coordinates communications with applicants and workers.
Art director for the Great Lakes Office in Elkhart: Responsibilities for this half- to three-quarter time position include designing major print pieces, supervising other designers, and implementing and maintaining graphic standards. Qualifications include a bachelor's degree in fine arts, design, communications, journalism, marketing or a related field; master's degree is helpful; prefer five years experience in graphic design.


Our Church
Office Hours :     Tuesday-Friday;
                  8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Statistical Report for May 16, 2004
         Attendance: 254
Today, May 23

This Week
Monday Walking Group, 7:45 p.m.
Tuesday Sondra Eby begins her internship at BAMF.
Tuesday Worship Commission, 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday MYF, 5:30 p.m.
Wednesday Congregational Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
Thursday First Place Weight Support group, 6:30 p.m.
Saturday Men's Breakfast, 7:00 a.m.
Next Sunday Kelly Shenk begins her internship at BAMF.
Next Sunday Taizé Service of Remembrance, 7:30 p.m.

Elders
         Our congregational meeting takes place this Wednesday evening, June 2, at 7:00 p.m. The agenda of the meeting was in your mailbox last Sunday. We hope you plan to attend. Extras are on the literature rack.

Fellowship and Caring Commission
         The Fellowship and Caring Commission is planning a Graduation Tea on June 6 during the fellowship time following the worship service. We need 16 people to each bring three dozen cookies for the event. Would you be willing to help in this way? If so, please contact Shawna Born by email at born5ininhotmail.com or by phone at 533-5517.

Announcements
BAMF News
         The Leadership Selection Committee is recommending the following candidates for the congregational positions as noted below. Each of them has agreed to serve. You will have a chance to respond to this ballot by affirmation (you will be affirming whether or not you can support these nominees to serve) during the worship service on June 18:

This Week
Monday Walking Group, 7:45 p.m.
Thursday Mission Commission, 4:00 p.m.
Thursday First Place Weight Support group, 6:30 p.m.
Friday-Saturday Jr. Youth camping trip at Warren Dunes.


Announcements
BAMF News
         All are invited to a Taizé service this evening at 7:30 p.m. This service is designed to be a time to remember loved ones who have passed away.

         One of the activities during Bible School this week focuses on the cross and its symbolism. If any of you have a cross (any size) that we could borrow to make a display for our activity, we would like to talk to you! Please see one of us TODAY if you could help us out. Thank you much!
                  Anita Kehr, James Yoder, Emily Grimes

         The Jr. Youth camping trip takes place next Friday and Saturday, June 11 and 12, at Warren Dunes. We will leave from the church at 3:00 p.m. on Friday and return Saturday after supper.
         The congregation is invited to an open house to celebrate the 40 ^th wedding anniversary of Meredith and Marion Yoder . The open house will be held at
the church on Saturday, June 12, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. No gifts please.

         The Fellowship and Caring Commission are planning a potluck fellowship meal on June 27 . Please mark your calendars. More details will follow.

         Our week to host guests from Goshen
Interfaith Hospitality Network is fast approaching. GIHN will be at Berkey Avenue June 20-27. We are in need of: supper hosts for Monday, June 21 and Friday, June 25; breakfast hosts on Saturday morning, June 26; persons to stay overnight on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Please sign up on the schedule on the table in the fellowship hall (bright orange posterboard) today if you can help, or see Genie Kehr for more information.

         The summer schedule for nurture hour begins on Sunday, June 20, for both children and adults.

         The children's summer Sunday school planning committee is looking for people who have lived in
other countries to come and share their experiences for one or two Sundays with the kindergarten-5 ^th grade Sunday school class. This may involve making a snack commonly eaten in the country, leading the kids in a craft, showing objects made in the country, telling stories about the experience, telling about the organization that supported you, or any other creative things you can think of. This class will have a regular teacher so the person









speaking will not have full responsibility for them.
If you are interested, please contact Evan Bontrager, Sondra Eby, or Nancy Yoder.       

         The summer Christian education class for adults begins June 20 and will feature a variety of topics led by a variety of people in the congregation. Watch for more details in coming weeks.

         The Leadership Selection Committee is recommending the following candidates for the congregational positions as noted below. Each of them has agreed to serve. You will have a chance to respond to this ballot by affirmation (you will be affirming whether or not you can support these nominees to serve) during the worship service on June 13: