mennonite

May 3, 2026

Fri, 01 May 2026 15:45:18 GMT

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April 26, 2026

Sat, 25 Apr 2026 16:33:50 GMT

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April 19, 2026

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 17:50:39 GMT

Easter Three: Astounding News!

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

April 19, 2026

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

~Gathering~

Prelude : "Praise the Lord! Ye Heavens, Adore Him"

- arr. Mary McDonald

Welcome& Announcements

Dedication of MCC Hygiene Kits

Focus Statement:

The two disciples that were going to Emmaus on the day Jesus arose from the grave were downcast and not sure of what to do after all that happened with Jesus’ death on the cross. They meet a man who joins their discussion and begins to open the Scripture to explain the purpose of these events. Later, they realize it was Jesus who was with them, as he broke bread and gave thanks. What are ways that we can see and experience the resurrected Christ in our lives today?

Time of Meditation: "Give Me Jesus" - African-American

Spiritual, arr. Anna Laura Page

Call to Worship:

Leader: Easter people, we gather today as people who spent the

week inundated with news reports, social media posts,

and reels that overpower us with information, worry,

and stress.

People: Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, we carry

the weight of being overwhelmed and anxious,

wondering who we can believe.

Leader: We gather as people who long for peace, for God to

break through and bring us clarity and hope once

again.

People: Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, we don’t

always recognize when the Risen One comes

alongside us, showing us the way where there seems

to be no way.

Leader: We gather as people hoping to catch a glimmer of

Resurrection, ready for our hearts to burn with the

truth of the resurrected Christ.

People: Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, we open

our hearts to the possibility that God’s Resurrection

life is closer than we think.

Leader: Easter people, God knows the burdens we carry, and

God is faithful to meet us where we are with good

news.

All: May the good news of the Resurrection astound us

today as we come to worship God! Amen.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering : HWB 13 Blessed Jesus, at Your Word

~Praising & Praying~

Psalm Litany: Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19

Leader: I love the Lord, for he heard my voice; he heard my

cry for mercy.

People: Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as

long as I live.

Leader: The cords of death entangled me, the anguish of the

grave came over me; I was overcome by distress and

sorrow.

People: Then I called on the name of the Lord: What shall I

return to the Lord for all his goodness to me?

All: I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name

of the Lord. I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the

presence of all his people.

Leader: Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his

faithful servants.

People: Truly I am your servant, Lord; I serve you just as my

mother did; you have freed me from my chains.

Leader: I will sacrifice a thank offering to you and call on the

name of the Lord.

People: I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of

all his people, in the courts of the house of the Lord—

in your midst, Jerusalem.

All: Praise the Lord!

Hymn of Praise: HWB 100 Praise Him, Praise Him!

Prayers of the People

Easter Hymn: HWB 281 That Easter Day with Joy was Bright

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture Readers Theater: Luke 24: 13-35 (The Message)

Message: “Recognizing Jesus”

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: HWB 517 Open My Eyes, That I May

See

(the offering will be collected and brought forth at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: HWB 344 I Will Sing of my Redeemer

Benediction

Postlude : "Jesus Shall Reign" - arr. Anna Laura Page

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Tabatha Murphy

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Song Leader: April Shupe

Usher: Leadership Team

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for April: After a devastating fire, we have set up a fund to help Amy, Paul, and Gretta Stauffer-McNutt through this difficult time. If you would like to donate, mark your donation for the Amy Stauffer-McNutt fire fund.

There is a Celebration of Life for Nathan Miller on Sunday, May 3 ^rd at Brethren Woods Camp, Pine Grove, 4896 Armentrout Path, Keezletown, VA, 22832

Viola Miller Address: Park Place, Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community, 1285 Shank Drive #336, Harrisonburg, VA 22802

Jeanette Marion: 2716 Fletcher Ave NE, Canton OH 44705

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS FOR

Sue Stauffer: We are going to see the Cahill’s and they might be able to come home a month early.

Bob Gerber: Thank you for all the prayers and visits.

Dan Hostetler: Roommate from College, Randy, that needs a kidney, might have a match.

Kristy Keim: Jaden and Dylan had a beautiful wedding.

THIS WEEK

April 24 ^th Happy Birthday, Mary Meyer

April 25 ^th – 26 ^th 250 Buckeye Train Transportation Celebration

(see description below)

NEXT WEEK:

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Helene Torgler

Head Usher: Herb Torgler

LAST WEEK

Sunday Attendance: 17

Offering: $1590

Change for a Dollar: $25

Easter Flowers: $38.75

Memory of Dorothy Schrock: $130

Memory of Gladys Schrock: $100

Memory of Rebecca Dean: $100

250 Buckeye Train Transportation Celebration

Come experience an exciting two day showcase of festivities to celebrate Ohio’s rich transportation history in honor of America’s 250 ^th anniversary. There will be trains arriving/departing, a car show, vintage aircraft flyovers, food, shows and more, all in downtown Dennison. More info available on their website:

dennisondepot.org/events/transportation-celebration/

On our front sign:

Those who walk with Jesus, will always reach their destination.

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

April 12, 2026

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 16:44:42 GMT

Easter Two: Christ Speaks Peace

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

April 12, 2026

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

~Gathering~

Prelude : “Crown Him with Many Crowns”

- arr. Anna Laura Page

Welcome& Announcements

Focus Statement:

Jesus told his disciples of his betrayal, death on the cross, and that he would rise again on the third day. They heard the words, but when the reality of these events happened, they fled, and hid in fear of what may happen next. They needed to see Jesus Christ, in his scarred, resurrected body, to again find the hope and peace that only he can bring. As followers of Christ, there are times when we face trials, loss, and difficult things that can cause us to become fearful, weary, and lack hope in believing God’s promises in his word. How can we see and experience the resurrected Christ in our lives today? What brings you peace and hope, to carry on in your journey of faith?

Time of Meditation: “ My Jesus, I Love Thee”

- arr. Anna Laura Page

Call to Worship: (written by Joanna Harader)

Leader: We know that God is always with us,

People: So we come this morning to remind ourselves that

we are with God.

Leader: In this time of worship,

People: May our hearts be glad;

Leader: May our souls rejoice;

People: May our bodies rest secure.

Leader: God shows us the path of life

All: And in God’s presence there is fullness of joy. We are

so glad to be together in God’s presence.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: HWB 16 God is here among us

~Praising & Praying~

Psalm Reading: Psalm 16:1-11 (NLT)

Hymn of Praise: HWB 46 I sing the mighty power of God

Prayers of the People

Easter Hymn: HWB 269 Thine is the Glory

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: John 20: 19-23

Message: “From Fear to Peace”

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: HWB 356 Breathe on me Breath of

God

(the offering will be collected and brought forth at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: VT 810 Go, My Friends, in Grace

Benediction

Postlude : “Rejoice, the Lord Is King” - arr. Lloyd Larson

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Kristy Keim

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Usher: Leadership Team

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for April: After a devastating fire we have set up a fund to help Amy, Paul, and Gretta Stauffer-McNutt through this difficult time. If you would like to donate, mark your donation for the Amy Stauffer-McNutt fire fund.

There is a Celebration of Life for Nathan Miller on Sunday, May 3 ^rd at Brethren Woods Camp, Pine Grove, 4896 Armentrout Path, Keezletown, VA, 22832

Viola Miller Address: Park Place, Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community, 1285 Shank Drive #336, Harrisonburg, VA 22802

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS FOR

Tabatha Murphy: Dylan and Jaden are getting married on Wednesday.

Bruce Stauffer: I visited Bob Gerber and he seems to be getting along alright and should be able to move here soon.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Tabatha Murphy: Mike Marion passed away this past week.

Sue Stauffer: The Cahill’s are stable at this point but won’t have family over for Easter. Also, Amy is having a hard time and needs our prayers.

April Shupe: Dottie’s funeral was on Saturday, prayers for her family.

Helene Torgler: Bev’s Paul had a mini stroke and is allergic to the medication that he needs.

Linda Yoder: Friend Savana had a son, Colton, who has heart and intestine issues.

THIS WEEK

April 13 ^th Happy Anniversary, Khammoune & Keutmy Phoutarath

April 18 ^th Happy Birthday, Wayne Schrock

NEXT WEEK:

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Tabatha Murphy

Head Usher: Herb Torgler

LAST WEEK

Maundy Thursday Attendance: 25

Sonrise Service Attendance: 36

Easter Sunday Attendance: 29

Offering: $1333

Easter Flowers: $40.95

Memory of Dorothy Schrock: $150

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

April 5, 2026

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 15:09:37 GMT

Easter Sunday

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

April 5, 2026

Worship: 10 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

~Gathering~

Welcome& Announcements

Pre-Prelude: "Christ Arose!" - arr. Lloyd Larson

Candlelighting:

(candle lighters—Lydia Miller, Greta McNutt, Isaac Miller)

Leader: On that first Easter, God raised Jesus to life and the

world became a brighter place!

(PAUSE to light candles)

All: Jesus’ love came to lighten the world.

Leader: Jesus’ love shines through each of us and makes the

world a brighter place.

(PAUSE to light a candle)

All: Jesus’ love shines through loving actions and words.

Leader: When we share with those who have less, the world

becomes a brighter place.

(PAUSE to light a candle)

All: Jesus wants us to share.

Leader: When we trust God and are no longer afraid, the world

becomes a brighter place.

(PAUSE to light a candle )

All: Jesus wants us to trust.

Leader: When we are content with what we have, the world

becomes a brighter place.

(PAUSE to light a candle)

All: Jesus will supply our needs.

Leader: When we are honest, the world becomes a brighter

place.

(PAUSE to light a candle)

All: Jesus helps us be truthful.

Leader: When Jesus lives in us, the world becomes a brighter

place.

(PAUSE to light a candle)

All: Alleluia! Christ is risen.

Prelude: "Jesus Christ Is Ris'n Today" - arr. Lloyd Larson

Introductory Poem:

Leader: Welcome Easter.

ALL: Welcome relief!

Leader: Newfound joy is washing over this grief.

ALL: Welcome mystery. Welcome surprise!.

Leader: Impossible reality—risen, before our eyes!

ALL: Welcome Jesus, our Savior and Friend.

Leader: Welcome seeking and naming,

ALL: Welcome love without end.

Focus Statement:

Today we celebrate the resurrection of Christ. Death could not

defeat him. Jesus lives! Our dissonance now is like that of the

first disciples: What does this all mean?

Reflective Prayer – Read by Linda Yoder, Kyler

Hershberger, Debbie Hershberger, and Kutter Hershberger

Hymn of Rejoicing: VT 350 The Strife Is O’er

Call to Worship:

Leader: Listen. Do you hear it?

All: The sound of joy. Laughter breaking in.

Leader: Listen! It sounds like harmony.

All: Angels singing.

Leader: Why are you weeping? For the grief? For the

beauty?

All: Jesus is risen!

Leader: Yes! And creation sings it. Yesterday’s tears

linger, as they must,

All: But love is stronger than death.

Leader: Do you believe this? Listen, Jesus is speaking

your name.

All: Our names—each one.

Leader: Like the music of the soul. Can you hear it?

All: It is the sound of resurrection.

Leader: Let us worship the Risen One!

Hymn of Gathering: VT 346 Christ the Lord Is Risen Today (with a clarinet descant on vs. 4 by Lydia Miller)

~Praising & Praying~

Prayers of the People

Confession poem:

Leader: Jesus, you don’t always show up where we expect or in

the way we expect.

Nancy Yoder: Once again, we feel for Mary, weeping by a tomb. In

our grief, we assume that the lost is lost forever.

ALL: “Tell me where to go!” we say. Tell me how I can find

that piece of what was to cling to a while longer.

Leader: And we don’t even realize you are there—that you

have been there right in front of us all along—until

you speak our name.

Nancy: As if to say, “I’m here.” As if to say, “I love you” and

promise: “This is not the end.”

Ending Prayer

Hymn of Praise: VT 340 Lift Your Glad Voices

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Readers Theater “Racing to See Jesus”

Read by Brad and April Shupe

Message: “Seeing, Hearing, Believing…He is Risen!”

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: VT 355 Thine Is the Glory

(the offering will be collected and brought forth at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Benediction

Sending Hymn: VT 359 Christ Is Alive! Let Christians Sing

Postlude: "Lift High the Cross" - arr. Lloyd Larson

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Bruce Stauffer

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Song Leader: April Shupe

Usher: Herb Torgler

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for April:

After a devastating fire we have set up a fund to help Amy, Paul, and Gretta Stauffer-McNutt through this difficult time. If you would like to donate, mark your donation for the Amy Stauffer-McNutt fire fund.

Bob Gerber address: Woodlawn, 2821 Woodlawn Ave, Canton OH 44708

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS FOR

Sue Stauffer: Jim Cahill continues to do well and might be able to come home earlier than planned.

Mike Keim: Praise that mom was able to have her heart shocked to get back into rhythm on the first try.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Mike Keim: Mike Gehman went to see Wayne and Dorothy Schrock. Dorothy is not doing well. Update: Dorothy passed away earlier this week.

Darcy Miller: Friend Rose is coming for a visit, but her husband was unable to attend due to a death in the family.

Sue Stauffer: Prayers for Amy as she goes through this difficult time, she needs quiet time and time to write.

Jon Gerber: Dad is at Woodlawn after undergoing surgery.

THIS WEEK

April 10 ^th Happy Birthday, Susan Lingler

NEXT WEEK:

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Kristy Keim

Head Usher: Herb Torgler

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 17

Offering: $868

Change for a dollar: $9.48

Easter Flowers: $122.55

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

March 29, 2026

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 14:10:25 GMT

Palm Sunday / Passion Sunday

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

March 29, 2026

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

“Patient Trust”

by Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

We are quite naturally impatient in everything

to reach the end without delay.

We should like to skip the intermediate stages.

We are impatient of being on the way

to something unknown, something new.

And yet it is the law of all progress

that it is made by passing through some stages of instability—

and that it may take a very long time.

~Gathering~

Prelude : "Triumphal Entry" - arr. Joel Raney

Welcome& Announcements

Introductory Poem:

As we step into Lent, we say “welcome” to the dissonance.

Come now, O God, when our love is forsaken;

come when our bedrock of faith has been shaken;

come when our deepest of hopes are mistaken:

come, Emmanual. Come, Emmanuel.

Come when we squander the freedom you gave us;

come break the systems of sin that enslave us;

come, though we wonder if you can still save us:

come, Emmanuel. Come, Emmanuel.

Come, lead us out of our self-serving madness;

come, while the world is still shrouded in sadness;

come, turn the tears of our mourning to gladness:

come, Emmanuel. Come, Emmanuel.

(words from VT 143)

As we step into Lent, we say, “welcome” to the dissonance,

trusting that God is here, now, in the mystery, before it is resolved.

Focus Statement:

Most years, the season of Lent is meant to prepare us for Holy

Week. This year, the entire season of Lent has been framed by

the experience of Holy Week, inviting us to linger in the

intensity of the final week of Jesus’ life, to dwell in the

dissonance. Today’s worship service provides a unique

challenge based on the readings. John 12 tells of Jesus’ entry

into Jerusalem, traditional for Palm Sunday. But in the weeks

leading up to this one, we are already past that narrative. John

19, on the other hand, continues the story we have been

following and details the crucifixion. So today, we will look at

both stories, side by side, and examine the dissonance of Jesus’

triumph and death, and our recognition of Jesus’ finishing work

which is not yet completed.

Hymn of Dissonance: VT 48 Come, My Way, My Truth,

My Life

(This hymn was chosen for its dissonant harmonies as well as for

the words. Today we will sing all verses.)

Call to Worship:

All: We gather to worship God and to look back on where

we’ve been;

Leader: we see old hopes, plans, and dreams, remembered

“Hosannas!” and all these weeks of Lent.

All: We gather to worship God and to look at where we are

now,

Leader: at Jesus re-defining triumph; and the king on the cross

instead of a throne.

All: We gather to worship God and to wonder at this

mystery,

Leader: of salvation that comes so strangely; of life that comes

through death; of brokenness meeting grace.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: HWB 238 Hosanna, Loud Hosanna

~Praising & Praying~

Prayers of the People

Confession Poem:

Leader: Jesus, this story is not the one we expected.

Mike: We feel for your disciples, so happy to proclaim you king as

you rode into Jerusalem.

People: We too have been eager to follow sure about what

that will mean, confident things will turn out well.

Kristy: We feel for your disciples devastated at your crucifixion.

People: When we are no longer sure about anything. When

everything we thought we had and knew falls apart.

All: “Hosanna!” we sang back then, “Save us!”

“Hosanna!” we cry now, “God, please!”

Leader: And though the story has shifted, you do save.

Mike: You have.

Kristy: You will.

All: You are.

Ending Prayer

Hymn of Praise: HWB 237 All Glory, Laud, and Honor

~Hearing God’s Word~

Dramatic Sketch: A Disciple’s Story--Then and Now

-based on John 19:16b—22; 12:12-27

A lone disciple stands by the cross, remembering….

Disciple – Mike Keim

Palm Wavers - Kristy Keim, Helene Torgler, Amy Hostetler

Message: “From Passion to Pain”

~Responding~

Time of Silence and Reflection:

You are invited to write your thoughts on the paper provided.

After three minutes of quiet reflection, the piano will play a

hymn during which the offering plates will be passed into

which you will place your papers.

Hymn of Response: HWB 250 Beneath the Cross of Jesus

(the offering will be collected and brought forth at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Benediction

Sending Hymn: HWB 252 O Sacred Head Now Wounded v3, 4

Postlude: "O Sacred Head, Now Wounded" – arr. Eugene Butler

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Guest Minister: Darcy Miller

Worship Leader: April Shupe

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Song Leader: April Shupe

Usher: Leadership Team

Lent 2026 – “Dwelling in Dissonance”

This Lenten season we are choosing to stay in the uncomfortable, the unsettled or unfinished, the times that grate or jar or disturb and to try not to force those times to come to completion. Just as Jesus endured the trials of Holy Week, we too are committed to wait and to fully experience the dissonance in our lives. The worship services during this season will attempt to help us be more comfortable with the dissonances—as reflected in the altar, the music, in the book of John on which our services will focus,

and in those disturbing times in our lives.

After the sermon during Lent, there will be a three-minute period where we will be writing our thoughts about one of the questions printed on the bulletin insert. When the three minutes are over, the offering plates will be passed for you to put your paper in the plate to be taken to the altar. Please put your pen on the seat beside you so that we can continue to use them each Sunday in Lent.

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for March: MCC Hygiene Kits

Keeping clean is an important part of staying healthy. Families who have fled their homes because of disaster or war often struggle to afford the necessary supplies. Kits also go to schools or orphanages to encourage healthy habits for children. A list of items needed is on the table in the coffee and fellowship area.

Maundy Thursday Communion and Supper: Bring a quart of vegetable soup to add to the community pot and join us in this holy service of fellowship and communion. Dinner starts at 6pm with the service to follow in the fellowship hall downstairs.

Easter Sonrise Service and Breakfast: All are invited to bring guests and attend our annual Sonrise service in the fellowship hall. The short service will begin at 8am and be followed by a hot breakfast complete with Easter eggs and horseradish!

Easter Sunday Service will begin a half hour later than usual, at 10 AM. There will be no fellowship time following the service.

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS FOR

Sue Stauffer: We are very grateful that no one was harmed in the fire that devastated Amy’s house.

Bob Gerber: Chris came home on Friday and will be coming over for a visit.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

April Shupe: Keep mom in your prayers, she is having dizzy spells in the mornings.

Sue Stauffer: Nate Miller has passed away.

Melanie Blauch Archer: Keep Dave in your prayers, his blood is not going through the arteries right and he has developed a cough.

THIS WEEK

April 2nd Maundy Thursday Supper and Communion Service, 6pm

April 4th Happy Birthday, April Shupe

April 5th Easter Sonrise Service, 8 am

Easter Service, 10 am

NEXT WEEK:

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Bruce Stauffer

Head Usher: Herb Torgler

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 20

Offering: $1140

Change for a dollar: $9.70

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

March 22, 2026

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 13:59:55 GMT

Lent Five:

Complicity and Innocence

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

March 22, 2026

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

“Patient Trust”

by Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

We are quite naturally impatient in everything

to reach the end without delay.

We should like to skip the intermediate stages.

We are impatient of being on the way

to something unknown, something new.

And yet it is the law of all progress

that it is made by passing through some stages of instability—

and that it may take a very long time.

~Gathering~

Prelude

Welcome& Announcements

Introductory Poem:

As we step into Lent, we say “welcome” to the dissonance.

“We reserve a space for lament and grief

to stay a while and do their work.

We release our nice little pictures

of perfect selves, perfect faith, perfect world,

and look for God in the heartache.

We listen for God in discordant melodies

and follow Jesus to the cross,

though we don’t understand and it doesn’t compute.”

As we step into Lent, we say, “welcome” to the dissonance,

trusting that God is here, now, in the mystery, before it is resolved.

Focus Statement:

This week, our attention turns to the cast of characters beyond

Jesus at his “trial.” Notice the roles various people play in this

horrible moment. We are faced with our dissonance when we

feel powerless, complicit, innocent, or accused.

Hymn of Dissonance: VT 48 Come, My Way, My Truth,

My Life

(This hymn was chosen for its dissonant harmonies as well as for

the words. Today we will sing all verses.)

Call to Worship:

All: Welcome Lent—

WL: terrible dissonance, as we condemn the Human One.

All: Welcome lament and confession

WL: as the story comes undone.

All: Welcome holy mystery

WL: that even this can find a place in the tale of God’s salvation.

All: Welcome suffering love and grace.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: HWB 37 Praise to the Lord

~Praising & Praying~

Prayers of the People

Confession Poem:

All: Jesus, things don’t always turn out the way we expect.

Or want. And sometimes your choices (or the choices of our

neighbors or family members or politicians) really don’t

agree with us.

Reader 1: We hate to admit it, but we feel for the angry crowd.

In our fury, we too can become so consumed, so

focused on who or what we are opposing, that we

turn away from the things that matter most.

Reader 2: “We have no king but the emperor!” we find

ourselves saying. And only after we hear our voice

do we realize how distorted our allegiance has

become. God, have mercy. Christ, have mercy.

Ending Prayer

Hymn of Praise: HWB 66 O Worship the King

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: John 19:1-16a

Message: “ Seeing Jesus, the Suffering, Tortured, Dying One”

~Responding~

Time of Silence and Reflection:

You are invited to write your thoughts on the paper provided.

After three minutes of quiet reflection, the piano will play a

hymn during which the offering plates will be passed into

which you will place your papers.

Hymn of Response: VT 325 O Sacred Head, Now Wounded

(the offering will be collected and brought forth at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Benediction

Sending Hymn: HWB 259 When I Survey the Wondrous

Cross

Postlude

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Dan Hostetler

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Song Leader: April Shupe

Usher: Leadership Team

Lent 2026 – “Dwelling in Dissonance”

and in those disturbing times in our lives.

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for March: MCC Hygiene Kits

Fox is having a three-part Biblical event starting tonight at 8 p.m . called The Faithful: Women of the Bible. Each episode follows the journey of five women of faith: Sarah, Hagar, Rebekah, Leah, and Rachel.

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS FOR

Mike Keim: Jim Cahill continues to do well.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Mike Keim: Chris went into a fib yesterday and needs our prayers.

April Shupe: Karissa’s mom fell and broke her shoulder. She had her shoulder replaced.

Linda Yoder: Mom had blockage of 95% and had a stint put in.

Dan Hostetler: Nate Miller has passed away.

THIS WEEK

March 23rd Happy Birthday, Craig Maurer

UPCOMING EVENTS

April 2nd Maundy Thursday Supper and Communion Service, 6pm

April 5th Easter Sonrise Service, 8 am

Easter Service, 10 am

NEXT WEEK:

Guest Minister: Darcy Miller

Worship Leader: April Shupe

Head Usher: Leadership Team

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 19

Offering: $140

Change for a dollar: $11

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

March 15, 2026

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 15:58:56 GMT

Lent Four:

Submission and Power

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

March 15, 2026

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

“Patient Trust”

by Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

We are quite naturally impatient in everything

to reach the end without delay.

We should like to skip the intermediate stages.

We are impatient of being on the way

to something unknown, something new.

And yet it is the law of all progress

that it is made by passing through some stages of instability—

and that it may take a very long time.

~Gathering~

Prelude

Welcome& Announcements

Introductory Poem:

As we step into Lent, we say “welcome” to the dissonance.

“Not by your might, no not by violence or might do you rule us,

But by your mercy, yes, by your merciful hand and compassion.

Not with a sword, no, not with fire or a sword do you force us,

But with your vision, yes, with the gaze of your love do you draw us.

Not using fear, no, not by terror or fear do you drive us,

But by your gladness, yes, by our souls filled with joy do you lead us.

Not with a threat, no, not by menace or threat do you sway us,

Urge us to seek you, filling our hearts with your hope and your longing.”

(VT 538)

As we step into Lent, we say, “welcome” to the dissonance,

trusting that God is here, now, in the mystery, before it is resolved.

Focus Statement:

Jesus understood and demonstrated power so differently from

what we expect. We experience the upside-down kingdom.

Hymn of Dissonance: VT 48 Come, My Way, My Truth,

My Life

This hymn was chosen for its dissonant harmonies as well as for

the words. Today we will sing along with an organ accompaniment.

Call to Worship:

WL: Welcome Lent.

ALL: Welcome Questions:

WL: Who are you? What is truth?

ALL: Welcome silence and responses that deal more with faith

than proof.

WL: Welcome humbleness in glory. Welcome peace amid the

pain.

ALL: Welcome all the upside-downness of Jesus’ kind of reign.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: HWB 106 All Hail the Power of Jesus’

Name

~Praising & Praying~

Prayers of the People

Confession Poem:

ALL: Jesus, your kingdom doesn’t work the way we expect.

Amy Hostetler: Power, honor—everything is backward. Are

you the king? What is the truth?

ALL: We feel for Pilate, wondering how a prisoner can be king.

Tabby Murphy: If you have power, why are you here instead of

sitting on a throne in glory? Why don’t you call

in your armies? Silence the naysayers, free

yourself, conquer the oppressors?

ALL: And you say,

WL: ” My kingdom is not of this world.”

ALL: You say,

WL: “This is how I testify to the truth.”

ALL: You say,

WL: “Listen to my voice.”

Ending Prayer

Hymn of Praise: HWB 102 To God be the Glory

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture Readers Theater: “Pilate’s Story”

--an adaptation from John 18:28-40

Narrator – Dan Hostetler; Pilate – April Shupe;

Jesus – Hannah Gehman

Message: “A Different King, A Different Way”

~Responding~

Time of Silence and Reflection:

You are invited to write your thoughts on the paper provided.

After three minutes of quiet reflection, the piano will play a

hymn during which the offering plates will be passed into

which you will place your papers.

Hymn of Response: HWB 530 What Wondrous Love Is

This

(the offering will be collected and brought forth at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Benediction

Sending Hymn: HWB 116 Crown Him With Many Crowns

v1, 2, 4

Postlude

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Helene Torgler

Pianist: Tim Miller

Song Leader: April Shupe

Usher: Leadership Team

Lent 2026 – “Dwelling in Dissonance”

and in those disturbing times in our lives.

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for March: MCC Hygiene Kits

Fox is having a three-part Biblical event starting March 22 at 8 p.m. called The Faithful: Women of the Bible. Each episode follows the journey of five women of faith: Sarah, Hagar, Rebekah, Leah, and Rachel.

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS FOR

Sue Stauffer: Jim Cahills numbers were up and was able to leave the hospital. Deb is nervous to take care of him.

Brad Shupe: We had visitors this week, Karissa, Casey, and Harvey.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Dan Hostetler: Amy’s uncle Mitch had a heart attack but is doing ok.

Linda Yoder: Mom is having a heart catheter put in on Friday.

Sue Stauffer: Prayers for the war in Iran and all the people who have lost their life.

THIS WEEK

March 17th Happy Birthday, JoAnne Miller

March 20th Happy Birthday, Kristy Keim

UPCOMING EVENTS

April 2nd Maundy Thursday Supper and Communion Service, 6pm

April 5th Easter Sonrise Service, 8 am

Easter Service, 10 am

NEXT WEEK:

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Dan Hostetler

Head Usher: Leadership Team

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 24

Offering: $1222

Change for a dollar: $27

MCC Justice Fund: $100

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

March 8, 2026

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 17:51:24 GMT

Lent Three:

Standing Up and Standing Back

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

March 8, 2026

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

“Patient Trust”

by Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

We are quite naturally impatient in everything

to reach the end without delay.

We should like to skip the intermediate stages.

We are impatient of being on the way

to something unknown, something new.

And yet it is the law of all progress

that it is made by passing through some stages of instability—

and that it may take a very long time.

~Gathering and Praising~

Prelude: "Go Down, Moses" - arr. Larry Shackley

Welcome& Announcements

Introductory Poem:

As we step into Lent, we say “welcome” to the dissonance.

In words of truth that shatter rigid silence;

in pain that signals life through what was numb;

in light dissolving false, obscuring shadows;

O God, through chaos, make your presence known.

In words that challenge, bold in confrontation;

in pain and hurt, suppressed but never gone;

in light that burns with unrestrained conviction;

O God of justice, show your pow’r again.

In words unsure, confused and hesitating;

in pain described, but scarcely understood;

in light that shines upon a path of healing;

O God our hope, will you bring something good?

(VT 148)

As we step into Lent, we say, “welcome” to the dissonance,

trusting that God is here, now, in the mystery, before it is resolved.

Focus Statement:

We all have moments of courage and fear, self-protection and

solidarity with others, compassion and denial. This week puts

us firmly in the dissonance that Jesus, the disciples, and we

experience.

Hymn of Dissonance: VT 48 Come, My Way, My Truth,

My Life

This hymn was chosen for its dissonant harmonies as well as for

the words. Today we will sing the verses in unison.

Call to Worship:

WL: Confident, hesitant, maybe just tired.

All: We come to worship.

WL: Wanting to follow but not always sure how.

Embarrassed by the ways we’ve fallen short.

All: We come anyway.

WL: Seeking, hurting, longing, needing.

All: We come .

WL: When hopes are high, and dreams are bright.

When hopes are dashed, and the world is not all right.

All: We come again. We keep coming.

WL: Ready or not. Here we are.

All: Come, Jesus. Come and meet us.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: HWB 41 Come, thou Almighty King

~Praising & Praying~

Prayers of the People

Confession Poem:

ALL: Jesus, following you doesn’t always go the way we

expect. We had such high hopes. For you and for

ourselves ….

Bob Gerber: We feel for Peter. In that moment of fear when

everything is falling apart we too may find that we

are not as brave as we wish; that, in fact, we are not

ready to lay down our lives for anyone.

April Shupe: But when we deny you or run from the truth or

refuse your identity and potential, you remain

faithful. When we turn away, still you are

steadfast.

Ending Prayer

Hymn of Praise: HWB 65 Praise, my soul, the King of heaven

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture Monologue: “Peter’s Story” -based on John 18:12-27

(read by Brad Shupe)

Message: “ When Faced with Fear and Doubt…”

~Responding~

Time of Silence and Reflection:

You are invited to write your thoughts on the paper provided.

After three minutes of quiet reflection, the piano will play a hymn during which the offering plates will be passed into which you will place your papers.

Hymn of Response: VT 585 Faith Begins by Letting Go

(the offering will be collected and brought forth at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Benediction

Sending Hymn: VT 74 Just a Closer Walk with Thee

Postlude: "Be Not Afraid" - arr. Douglas Wagner

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Brad Shupe

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Song Leader: April Shupe

Usher: Leadership Team

Lent 2026 – “Dwelling in Dissonance”

and in those disturbing times in our lives.

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for March: MCC Hygiene Kits

The Central District Conference mid-year gathering will be on March 14, from 9:30 a.m. -12:00 p.m. via Zoom. At this year's mid-year gathering they will seek input from congregations that will be used as we revisit Article 19 of the Confession of Faith from a Mennonite Perspective and consider CDC’s actual practice of Article 19. The goal is to be clear about how the Confession of Faith is used in CDC. If you are interested in participating, let Tabby or April know, and they will email you a link to participate.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Linda Yoder: Prayers for friends and family of Ronnie and Marlin Miller, Ronnie has passed away.

Reno Stevanus: Sister Janet is in the hospital with an aortic aneurysm.

Sue Stauffer: Got to see Deb Cahill, sister-in-law is staying until Wednesday, Jim is not doing well.

Bruce Stauffer: Chris is having open heart surgery this week.

Mike Gehman: Friend Jim has cancer and is in the hospital.

UPCOMING EVENTS

April 2 ^nd Maundy Thursday Supper and Communion Service, 6pm

April 5 ^th Easter Sonrise Service, 8 am

Easter Service, 10 am

NEXT WEEK:

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Helene Torgler

Head Usher: Leadership Team

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 48

Offering: $1340

Change for a dollar: $13

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

March 1, 2026

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 20:47:03 GMT

Lent Two:

Obvious and Hidden

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

March 1, 2026

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

“Patient Trust”

by Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

We are quite naturally impatient in everything

to reach the end without delay.

We should like to skip the intermediate stages.

We are impatient of being on the way

to something unknown, something new.

And yet it is the law of all progress

that it is made by passing through some stages of instability—

and that it may take a very long time.

~Gathering and Praising~

Prelude: “Brethren, We Have Met to Worship” -arr. Joel Raney

Welcome& Announcements

Introductory Poem:

As we step into Lent, we say “welcome” to the dissonance.

“Ask the complicated questions: do not fear to be found out,

for our God makes strong our weakness, forging faith in fires of doubt.

Seek the disconcerting answers; follow where the Spirit blows,

test competing truths for wisdom, for in tension new life grows.

Knock on doors of new ideas, test assumptions long grown stale,

for Christ calls from shores of wonder, daring us to try and fail.

For in struggle, we discover truth both simple and profound:

in the knocking, asking, seeking, we are opened, answered, found.”

(from Voices Together p.440)

As we step into Lent, we say, “welcome” to the dissonance,

trusting that God is here, now, in the mystery, before it is resolved.

Focus Statement:

We yearn for simple and obvious explanations without

dissonance. This week, we are confronted with Jesus’ approach

to important things like love, holiness, and even what we know!

Call To Worship and Praise: Legacy Christian School Choir

Hymn of Dissonance: VT 48 Come, My Way, My Truth,

My Life

(This hymn was chosen for its dissonant harmonies as well as for

the words, so it is suggested that the congregation just listens or

hums the melody and follows along as the piano plays through

the verses.)

~Praying and Confessing~

Prayers of the People

Confession Poem:

ALL: Jesus, you don’t always act the way we expect, the way

that seems right and proper and reasonable and wise.

Nancy Yoder: We feel for Peter. In our confusion (and perhaps

feeling slightly offended), we too may say,

ALL: “I’m sorry, God. What?!”

Nancy Yoder: We may say,

ALL: “No way. Never!”

Nancy Yoder: But you are persistent. You remind us that we

don’t have to understand everything right now.

ALL: You invite us to simply take off our sandals and

experience your love, scandalous as it is.

Ending Prayer

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture Reading : “Jesus Washes Peter’s Feet”

--based on John 13:1-17

Jesus – Dan Hostetler; Peter – Mike Keim

Message: “Serving in Love, Showing the Way”

~Responding~

Time of Silence and Reflection:

You are invited to write your thoughts on the paper provided.

After three minutes of quiet reflection, the piano will play a hymn during which the offering plates will be passed into which you will place your papers.

Hymn of Response: VT 778 Will You Let Me Be Your Servant

v1, 2

(the offering will be collected and brought forth at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Benediction

Sending Hymn: VT 813 Heart With Loving Heart United v1,3

Postlude: “Jesus Loves Me” -arr. Joel Raney

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: April Shupe

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Song Leader: April Shupe

Usher: Leadership Team

Lent 2026 – “Dwelling in Dissonance”

and in those disturbing times in our lives.

We would like to thank our special guests, the Legacy Christian School Choir, and their director, Franklin Miller, for sharing with us today. LCS, an Anabaptist, K-12 school located in Sugarcreek, seeks to provide a high-quality, Christian education from an Anabaptist perspective. The community school is composed of over 250 students from many different families and churches. Their goal is to work alongside churches and families to equip and inspire students to impact the world for Christ.

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for March: MCC Hygiene Kits

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Amy Stauffer McNutt: Gretta and I went to camp Friedenswald for high school winter camp and then to tour Goshen College.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Melanie Blauch Archer: Dave went to the hospital with seizures and sleep apnea but is back home at Park Village.

Sue Stauffer: Jim had his bone marrow transplant and isn’t feeling very well. His sister has come to stay, and Sarah Beth went home.

Amy Stauffer McNutt: Heidi and Justin had their baby, Atlas, but is in the NICU.

UPCOMING EVENTS

March 8th Annual Congregational Meeting following Worship

April 2nd Maundy Thursday Supper and Communion Service, 6pm

April 5th Easter Sonrise Service, 8 am

Easter Service, 10 am

NEXT WEEK:

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Brad Shupe

Head Usher: Leadership Team

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 21

Offering: $1457

Change for a dollar: $2.29

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Feb. 22, 2026

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 16:46:48 GMT

Lent One:

Love and Grief, Glory and Belief

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

February 22, 2026

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

“Patient Trust”

by Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

We are quite naturally impatient in everything

to reach the end without delay.

We should like to skip the intermediate stages.

We are impatient of being on the way

to something unknown, something new.

And yet it is the law of all progress

that it is made by passing through some stages of instability—

and that it may take a very long time.

~Gathering~

Prelude: “What Wondrous Love” – arr. Vicki Collinsworth

Welcome& Announcements

Introductory Poem:

As we step into Lent, we say “welcome” to the dissonance.

We reserve a space for lament and grief to stay a while and do their work.

We release our nice little pictures of perfect selves,

perfect faith, perfect world, and look for God in the heartache.

We listen for God in discordant melodies and follow Jesus to the cross,

though we don’t understand and it doesn’t compute.

As we step into Lent, we say, “welcome” to the dissonance,

trusting that God is here, now, in the mystery, before it is resolved.

Focus Statement:

We often think of love and grief as very different emotions. This

week we are challenged with the dissonance of their relationship.

Pay attention to Jesus’ words and actions here, and the

dissonance they stir up in us.

Hymn of Dissonance: VT 48 Come, My Way, My Truth, My Life

(This hymn was chosen for its dissonant harmonies as well as for

the words, so it is suggested that the congregation just listens or

hums the melody and follows along as the piano plays through

the verses.)

Call to Worship:

WL: Welcome, Lent

ALL: Welcome, mystery.

WL: Welcome, dissonance.

ALL: Welcome, grief.

WL: Welcome, glory and uncertainty.

ALL: Welcome, doubt. Welcome, belief.

WL: Welcome, questions without answers.

ALL: Welcome, fullness from above.

WL: Welcome, death and resurrection.

ALL: Welcome, Jesus’ fiercest love.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: VT 537 Lord, You Sometimes Speak

in Wonders

~Praying & Praising~

Prayers of the People

Confession Poem:

ALL: Jesus, you don’t always show up when we expect

or in the way we expect.

Bob Gerber: We feel for Martha and Mary. In our grief we

too may say, “Lord, if you had been here…”

Suzanne Stauffer: In our bitter confusion we may say,

“God healed others. Couldn’t God have…”

Bob Gerber: We hoped you would prevent his pain.

Suzanne Stauffer: We hoped you would fix this hurt.

ALL: Instead, you weep with us. Instead, you go to the

tomb and sit with us in the horrid emptiness of

loss. Though you will surprise us again—and this

time with life—for now, your love is shown in

tears.

Ending Prayer

Hymn of Praise: VT 644 Healer of Our Every Ill

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture : “ Voices of Grief” – an adaptation of John 11:1-44

Narrator – Reno Stevanus, Martha – Hannah Gehman,

Mary – Helene Torgler, Voice 1 – Mike Keim,

Voice 2 – Bruce Stauffer, Voice 3 –Nancy Yoder

Message: “Jesus Dwelt in Dissonance”

~Responding~

Time of Silence and Reflection:

You are invited to write your thoughts on the paper provided.

After three minutes of quiet reflection, the piano will play a

hymn during which the offering plates will be passed into

which you will place your papers.

Hymn of Response: VT 643 Come, Ye Disconsolate

(the offering will be collected and brought forth at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Benediction

Sending Hymn: VT 586 All Will Be Well (repeat 3x)

Postlude: “Hymn of Promise” – arr. John Carter

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Guest Minister: Darcy Miller

Worship Leader: Bruce Stauffer

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Song Leader: Amy Stauffer McNutt

Usher: Mike Keim

Lent 2026 – “Dwelling in Dissonance”

and in those disturbing times in our lives.

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for February : MC USA Justice Fund

In the midst of significant social unrest in the United States, the Mennonite Church USA as launched a Justice Fund to provide a way for individuals and congregations to support MC USA churches that are actively involved in dismantling racism, addressing police brutality, reimagining policing in our society or combating poverty. The Justice Fund will use donations to provide grants for MC USA congregations that are engaging in their communities to dismantle racism and to build peace. Congregations also may use these funds for seed money to begin working in these areas.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Dan Hostetler: Friend has passed away prayers for friends and family. Also, College roommate had a pacemaker put in, prayers for healing.

Sue Stauffer: Deb Cahill said that Sarah Beth was able to donate blood cells to Jim. Jim is not feeling well with the chemo treatments.

April Shupe: Doug Rehard (cousin) has cancer and is getting blood cell treatments. Also, baby Kayson’s brain bleed has stopped.

THIS WEEK

Feb. 25 ^th Happy Birthday, Jackie Agler

March 1 ^st Legacy Christian School Choir singing at FMC

UPCOMING EVENTS

Next Sunday March 1 ^st , the Legacy Christian School Choir will once again be singing at our church during the first half of our service, beginning at 9:30 A.M. (They have an engagement in Baltic at 10:30 A.M. so will be leaving around 10 A.M.) We encourage you to be present and to invite guests for this time of worship.

NEXT WEEK:

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: April Shupe

Head Usher: Mike Keim

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 22

Offering: $670

Change for a dollar: $17

Homeless Shelter: $100

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Feb. 15, 2026

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 19:01:32 GMT

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

February 15, 2026

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Transfiguration Sunday

~Gathering~

Prelude: "Glorious Light" - Keith and Kristyn Getty,

arr. Larry Shackley

Welcome& Announcements

Focus Statement:

Transfiguration Sunday is a day we celebrate the Sunday before Ash Wednesday. It provides both a narrative and theological bridge into Lent. The Transfiguration is a foretaste of the glory of Resurrection, a revelation of Jesus’ divinity that has been hidden, yet is no less real. The Transfiguration does not erase Jesus’ humanity but demonstrates the union of full humanity and full divinity in the person of Jesus. Today, let us declare the wonder, awe, and mystery that Christ’s glory calls us into.

Time of Meditation : "May Thy Holy Spirit" - Paul Tschenokoff,

arr. Jan Sanborn

Call to Worship:

Leader: On this Transfiguration Sunday, we gather on the

mountaintop with Jesus, wondering what we will

encounter.

People: We come to encounter God’s glory revealed.

Leader: We witness the revelation of Christ’s divinity made

plain before us.

People: We come to witness God’s glory revealed.

Leader: We remember that God’s glory is not about spectacle

but truth, not about show, but about Love made real

among us.

People: We come to remember God’s glory revealed.

Leader: We follow Jesus down from the mountaintop into

the valleys, as God’s glory goes before us and

behind us.

People: We come to be sent out to share God’s glory

revealed.

All: Thanks be to God! Amen.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: HWB 43 Christ Is Our Cornerstone

~Praying & Praising~

Old Testament Scripture Litany : Psalm 99

Leader: The LORD is king; let the peoples tremble! He sits

enthroned upon the cherubim; let the earth quake!

People: The LORD is great in Zion; he is exalted over all the

peoples.

Leader: Let them praise your great and awesome name. Holy is

he!

People: Mighty King, lover of justice, you have established

equity; you have executed justice and righteousness in

Jacob.

ALL: Extol the LORD our God; worship at his footstool.

Holy is he!

Leader: Moses and Aaron were among his priests, Samuel also

was among those who called on his name. They cried

to the LORD, and he answered them.

People: He spoke to them in the pillar of cloud; they kept his

decrees and the statutes that he gave them.

Leader: O LORD our God, you answered them; you were a

forgiving God to them but an avenger of their

wrongdoings.

ALL: Extol the LORD our God, and worship at his holy

mountain, for the LORD our God is holy.

Hymn of Praise: HWB 66 O Worship the King

Prayers of the People

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture : Matthew 17:1-9; II Peter 1:16-18

Message: “Listen to him!”

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: HWB 70 Immortal, Invisible, God Only

Wise

(the offering will be brought forth at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: HWB 418 Move in Our Midst

Benediction

Postlude: "Praise the Lord, Ye Heavens Adore Him"

- Rowland Pritchard, arr. Mary McDonald

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Tabatha Murphy

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Song Leader: April Shupe

Usher: Mike Keim

Cover Art: The Transfiguration by Raphael

The Transfiguration, which was considered Raphael’s last painting, is thought to be one of his most famous masterpieces. The Italian High Renaissance master, Giorgio Vasari, the sixteenth century painter, writer, historian, and who is famous today for his biographies of Renaissance artists, called Raphael a mortal God and of today’s painting, he described it as: “…the most famous, the most beautiful and most divine…” Although Raphael Sanzio was only thirty-four years of age when he was given the commission, bad health prevented him from finishing it. It was left unfinished by Raphael, and is believed to have been completed by his pupils, Giulio Romano and Giovanni Francesco Penni, shortly after his death on Good Friday 1520.

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for February : MC USA Justice Fund

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS FOR

Tabatha Murphy: I am going to be an aunt; Patty Snyder is pregnant.

Nancy Yoder: Mark and Madelyn had a baby boy, Macklin, I am a great grandma.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Kristy Keim: Prayers for Mike and Herb to get better from their illness.

Sue Stauffer: Jim Cahill’s daughter, Sara Beth came in from California to have her bone marrow extracted for Jim bone marrow transplant.

April Shupe: Brittany Phillips had twin boys, one of the boys, Kayson, is back in the hospital with a stage 4 brain bleed.

Mike Gehman: Good friend passed away who had cancer.

Reno Stevanus: Niece, Marilyn had a 14-hour surgery a week ago, can’t talk yet.

THIS WEEK

Feb. 16 ^th Happy Birthday, Nate Miller

Feb. 18 ^th Ash Wednesday

Feb. 20 ^th Happy Birthday, Mike Gehman

Feb. 22 ^nd First Day of Lent

UPCOMING EVENTS

On Sunday March 1 ^st , the Legacy Christian School Choir will once again be singing at our church during the first half of our service, beginning at 9:30 A.M. (They have an engagement in Baltic at 10:30 A.M. so will be leaving around 10 A.M.) We encourage you to be present and to invite guests for this time of worship.

NEXT WEEK:

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Bruce Stauffer

Head Usher: Mike Keim

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 19

Offering: $1460

Change for a dollar: $8

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Feb. 8, 2026

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 16:54:41 GMT

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

February 8, 2026

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Living as Light and Salt

~Gathering~

Prelude: "Brethren, We Have Met to Worship" - arr. Cindy Berry

Welcome& Announcements

Focus Statement:

Jesus taught many things to his disciples and the crowds that were there listening, about God’s kingdom and what it meant to follow him. He said that they were the salt of the earth, a metaphor that they could understand. For they knew that salt functions as a preservative, adds flavor to food, and is a cleansing agent. He also said that they were the light of the world, a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. Living in light and shining Christ’s light through the darkness of the world, points people to Christ and

brings praise to God. How can we grow in learning to live as light and salt in the world, as we continue to follow Christ today?

Time of Meditation : "We Walk by Faith and Not by Sight"

- Rachel Trelstad Porter

Call to Worship:

Leader: We are called to bring a new understanding of God:

that God so loves the world.

People: We are the salt of the earth.

Leader: We are called to bring a new hope in God:

that God gives us new life.

People: We are the light of the world.

Leader: We are called to follow the commandments and the

law.

People: The Law of God is to love God and to love one

another.

Leader: Come, let us be the salt of the earth, the light of the

world.

People: Come, let us love one another with the love of God.

All: Let us join together in our love of God to worship

and follow Jesus.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: HWB 26 Holy Spirit, Come With Power

~Praying & Praising~

Old Testament Scripture : Psalm 112:1-9 (NIV)

Hymn of Praise: HWB 41 Come, Thou Almighty King

Prayers of the People

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Matthew 5:13-16; Ephesians 5:8-14

Message: “Living as Children of Light”

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: HWB 594 Lord, You Sometimes Speak

(the offering will be brought forth at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: HWB 226 You Are Salt For the Earth

Benediction

Postlude: "Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee" - arr. Cindy Berry

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Dan Hostetler

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Song Leader: April Shupe

Usher: Mike Keim

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for February: TBA

Let’s shower Bill Flinner with birthday cards this week, as he will be celebrating his 90 ^th birthday on Feb. 10. His address is: 1000 Addington Dr Apt. 129 Russell, KY 41169

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Tabatha Murphy: Mary Jane is in the hospital with migraine that left her unresponsive.

Sue Stauffer: Jim Cahill is having a bone marrow transplant this week. Also, pray for the family and friends of the people who were murdered in Minnesota.

Helene Torgler: Lavern Slabaugh is in the hospital waiting for a double bypass.

April Shupe: We had a good trip but on the last day mom went to the hospital with confusion and hallucinations, the doctors couldn’t find anything wrong.

Bob Gerber: Chris is expecting a heart catheter this week .

Reno Stevanus: Niece Marilyn had a lung and liver transplant.

Bruce Stauffer: Elaine had part of her skull removed and put back with a drain tube.

THIS WEEK

Feb. 10 ^th Happy Birthday, Bill Flinner

Feb. 12 ^th Happy Anniversary, Keo & Tanh Sixiengmay

NEXT WEEK:

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Tabatha Murphy

Head Usher: Mike Keim

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 18

Offering: $2118

Change for a dollar: $18.65

Homeless Shelter: $225

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Jan. 25, 2026

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 20:22:33 GMT

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

January 25, 2026

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Bearers of the Light

~Gathering~

Prelude: “Be Still, My Soul” -arr. Barbara Boertje

Welcome& Announcements

Focus Statement:

Fear is a powerful motivator. People will respond out of fear, will rise up out of fear, will demand change because of fear. The question is, “Are we still being led by fear and those who stoke our fears? Or is it time to find something else upon which to build tomorrow?” There are plenty out there who will itemize the fears we need to embrace. It is the way of the world. And while we live in and embrace the world, we don’t live by the ways of the world. We are called to live differently. We are called to live confidently. We are called to be bearers of the light—the light of hope and confidence, the light of faith and transformation.

Time of Meditation : “There Is a Balm in Gilead”

-arr. Cindy Berry

Call to Worship:

Leader: Children of God, when fears press in on every side, we can

proclaim with confidence:

People: God is our light and salvation! Whom shall we fear?

Leader: When our problems overwhelm us and we feel

pressed in on every side, we can declare with

confidence:

People: God is the stronghold of our lives! Of whom shall

we be afraid?

Leader: No matter the troubles we face, we seek after God

and to live in the house of God forever.

People: God shelters and protects us in the day of trouble.

Leader: Come, let us worship God with joy, for God is our

light and salvation!

People: We come to worship as bearers of the Light.

Thanks be to God! Amen.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: VT 47 God of Our Strength

~Praying & Praising~

Old Testament Scripture Litany : Psalm 27:1, 4-9

Leader: The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I

fear?

People: The LORD is the stronghold of my life; of whom

shall I be afraid?

Leader: One thing I asked of the LORD; this I seek:

All: to live in the house of the LORD all the days of my life,

to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in his

temple.

Leader: For he will hide me in his shelter in the day of trouble;

People: he will conceal me under the cover of his tent; he

will set me high on a rock.

Leader: Now my head is lifted up above my enemies all around

me, and I will offer in his tent sacrifices with shouts of

joy;

People: I will sing and make melody to the LORD. Hear,

O LORD, when I cry aloud; be gracious to me and

answer me!

Leader: "Come," my heart says, "seek his face!" Your face,

LORD, do I seek.

People: Do not hide your face from me. Do not turn your

servant away in anger, you who have been my help.

All: Do not cast me off; do not forsake me, O God of my

salvation.

Prayers of the People

Hymn of Praise: VT 91 We Praise Thee, O God

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Matthew 4:12-23

Message: “Shining Christ’s Light, Following His Call”

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: VT 715 Longing For Light

(the offering will be brought forth at this time)

Offering Prayer

Reflection Song: “As the Deer” -arr. Mark Hayes

As the deer panteth for the water, so my soul longeth after Thee.

You alone are my heart's desire, and I long to worship Thee.

You alone are my Strength, my Shield,

To You alone may my spirit yield.

You alone are my heart's desire, and I long to worship Thee.

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: VT 671 The Hand of God Shall Hold You

Benediction Prayer

Postlude: “This Little Light of Mine” -arr. Mark Hayes

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Kristy Keim

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Usher: Monk Yoder

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for January:

Friends of the Homeless of Tuscarawas County

We will be collecting money for this organization in New Philadelphia, which is currently building a new facility called, “Jack’s House of Hope.” It will house 14 men, 13 women, and 4 family units, along with a kitchen and dining room, chapel, conference rooms, offices, and an outdoor play area and courtyard in a protected space. As of March 1st, they have raised 3.4 million dollars in cash, pledges, and in-kind donations; their goal is 5.5 million dollars. Please make your check out to First Mennonite, then Bruce will send one check at the end of the month.

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Bruce Stauffer: Elaine is making progress and will be moved to a rehab in Wooster.

Brad Shupe: April and Bertie made it to Florida, also I have been reemployed as head coach.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Sue Stauffer: Jim Cahill will start his 10 days of chemo. Also, Anna was hospitalized with blood clots in her lungs.

Amy Hostetler: Margaret Cheslock passed away last week.

Tabatha Murphy: Rob and Andrea Fogle has two daughters that are in the hospital with mental health issues.

Helene Torgler: Marla’s friend Lori is battling cancer and will have a stem cell transplant.

Mike Keim: Melonie’s husband Dave is in the ICU with possible sepsis.

THIS WEEK

Feb. 1 ^st Happy Birthday, Bob Gerber

NEXT WEEK:

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Helene Torgler

Head Usher: Mike Keim

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 19

Offering: $570

Change for a dollar: $36

Tom & Julie Mauer: $500

Donation for Fellowship Hall: $45

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Jan. 18, 2026

Sat, 17 Jan 2026 17:01:02 GMT

Anabaptism At Five Hundred

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

January 18, 2026

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30 – 12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

*********************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Anabaptism at 500

Belief Twelve: Stewardship

~Gathering in the Royal Bible Classroom~

(around tables)

Welcome and Announcements

Focus Statement:

Stewardship is the idea that our lives, our work, and our possessions

are dedicated to taking care of God’s kingdom. It identifies God as

owner and man as manager. God makes man His co-worker in

administering all aspects of our life. Starting with this concept, we are

then able to accurately view and correctly value not only our

possessions, but, more importantly, human life itself. In essence,

stewardship defines our purpose in this world as assigned to us by God

Himself. Stewardship is not God taking something from us; it is His

method of bestowing HIs richest gifts upon His people.

This understanding is reflected in how we use our resources, our time,

our talents, our possessions. For example, creation stewardship means

taking care of the earth, water, or air. During this worship service we

will be dividing the service into sections that focus on different aspects

of stewardship, following a format as suggested in a blog written by

Mike Hundley from 01/13/21, and focusing on Scriptures that give us

direction.

Scripture: Matthew 6:19-23

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth,

where moth and rust consume and

where thieves break in and steal;

but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven,

where neither moth nor rust consumes

and where thieves do not break in and steal.

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

Hymn of Gathering : VT 776 Teach Me Thy Truth

~1. The Calling from the Lord to Be Good Stewards~

Introductory Remarks

Scriptures:

Genesis 1:28 – Bob Gerber

Psalm 24:1-7 – Nancy Yoder

Proverbs 21:20 – Tabby Murphy

Titus 1:7-8 – Reno Stevanus

1 Corinthians 4:1-2 – Helene Torgler

Hymn: VT 179 At the Dawn of Your Creation (take note of vs. 3)

~2. Stewardship of Talents~

Introductory Remarks

Scriptures:

1 Peter 4:10 - Tabby Murphy

Colossians 3:23-24 - Dan Hostetler

1 Peter 4:10-12 – Helene Torgler

Proverbs 3:9 - Hannah Gehman

2 Corinthians 9:6-7 – Amy Hostetler

Hymn of Response: VT 745 God, Whose Giving (take note of vs. 2)

Prayers of the People

~3. Stewardship of Money, Wealth, and Possessions~

Introductory Remarks

Early Anabaptist Story: Maeyken van Deventer

-read by Hannah Gehman

Hymn: VT 753 Heart and Mind, Possessions, God (vs. 1)

Scriptures:

Deuteronomy 8:17-18 – Reno Stevanus

Matthew 6:21-24 – Nancy Yoder

Matthew 25:14-29 – Mike Gehman

Luke 16:11 – Amy Hostetler

I Timothy 6:7, 8, 10 – Bob Gerber

I Timothy 6:17-19 – Suzanne Stauffer

Global Story: Wounaan people in Panama – read by Mike Keim

Hymn of Response: HWB 384 We Give Thee but Thine Own (vs. 1-4)

~ 4. Stewardship of Time~

Introductory Remarks

Scriptures:

Genesis 1:14-16 – Brad Shupe

Ephesians 5:15-17 – Kristy Keim

Colossians 3:23 – Hannah Gehman

Galatians 6:9-10 – Kristy Keim

Romans 13:11-14 – Mike Keim

Hymn of Response: VT 756 God, We Pause This Moment

Offering Prayer

Funny Story in Drama: Is Menno in the Coach?

A Mennonite Myth, ca. 1550

WL – Background, Narrator – Dan Hostetler,

Policeman – Mike Gehman, Menno – Brad Shupe,

Passenger – Suzanne Stauffer

Thoughts and Comments (about Anabaptism @500 or …)

~Sending~

Benediction:

Leader: There is no scarcity. There is no shortage. No lack of love,

of compassion, of joy in the world. There is enough. There

is more than enough. Only fear and greed make us think

otherwise. No one need starve.

People: There is enough land and enough food.

Leader: No one need die of thirst.

People: There is enough water.

Leader: No one need live without mercy.

People: There is no end to grace.

Leader: And we are all instruments of grace.

People: The more we give it, the more we share it, t he more we use it,

the more God makes.

Leader: There is no scarcity of love.

ALL: Let us go, sharing our time, our talents, our possessions,

our love, with whomever we meet.

Sending Hymn: VT 746 Grant us, God, the Grace

Sending Words: (spoken to each other)

All: May you see the face of Christ in everyone you meet,

and may everyone you meet see the face of God in you.

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Bruce Stauffer

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Head Usher: Monk Yoder

Our On-Going Series on Anabaptist Beliefs:

In 2018 Lisa Weaver and Elizabeth Miller, as part of the Bearing Witness Stories project, wrote a book for children entitled Let the

Children Come to Me: Nurturing Anabaptist Faith within Families.

“The materials gathered together in this book beautifully

illustrate the central convictions of the Anabaptist tradition.”

-John D. Roth, Director of the Institute for the

Study of Global Anabaptism

hard to come up with an explanation of our faith. Hopefully this series of worship services (that will be spread out through this year of Anabaptism at 500) will enable us to answer these questions more accurately. We are basing this series on the above-mentioned book.

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for January: Friends of the Homeless of Tuscarawas County

Please have your year-end reports into the office by the end of January so Tabby can begin to type up the annual report. Thank you!

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Sue Stauffer: Jim Cahill was too weak to do chemo this past week, so they were able to go out and see a movie.

Bruce Stauffer: Friend Elaine Weygandt healing is coming along well, she had a good day yesterday, but they will need to put a stint in her brain to drain fluid.

Mike Gehman: Talked with Bill and Jean Flinner and they are settling in and are closer to granddaughter. Bill is having his 90th birthday on Feb. 10, family is asking for a card shower- address is 1000 Addington Dr. Apt. 129, Russell KY 41169

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Melonie Blauch Archer: Bianca’s husband Jordan is struggling with the death of his father.

Sue Stauffer: For the family and friends for the woman that was killed in Minneapolis and for all the people who are being detained and deported.

THIS WEEK

Jan. 24th Happy Birthday, JoAnne Pyle

NEXT WEEK

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Kristy Keim

Head Usher: Monk Yoder

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 23

Offering: $815

Change for a dollar: $12

Homeless Shelter: $25

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor: Mike Gehman: 1-330-749-674

Email: pastor@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30a.m.-2:30p.m

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler

Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Jan. 11, 2026

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 15:16:31 GMT

Anabaptism At Five Hundred

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

January 11, 2026

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30 – 12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

*********************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Anabaptism at 500

Belief Eleven: Service to One Another

~Gathering in the Royal Bible Classroom~

(around tables)

Welcome and Announcements

Focus Statement:

To serve means to give your time, talents, and energy to help

another person or help in a situation. This happens in ways both

small and large. Some adults and families choose to participate in

voluntary service assignments for specific periods of time. Anabaptists

look to the life of Jesus in the New Testament as an example of a person

who served others—even those who were excluded or appeared to be

enemies.

Scripture: I Peter 4:9-10

Be hospitable to one another without complaining.

Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God,

serve one another with whatever

gifts each of you has received.

Time of Meditation : VT 386 One Is the Body

Prayer of Preparation:

Leader: God of all creation, we enter your presence, humbly aware that

all we have and are we owe to you.

People: We come, desiring to worship together. Be our inspiration.

Leader: We come, desiring to learn together. Be our teacher.

People: We come as eager children, desiring your touch. Be our loving

parent.

Leader: Open our eyes, that we may see as you see.

People: Open our hearts, that we may love as you love.

Leader: Open our hands, that we may serve as you serve.

ALL: In the name of Christ, our Lord and our example. Amen.

Hymn of Gathering: VT 64 As Long as Jesus’ Reign Goes On

~Storytelling~

Early Anabaptist Story from Martyrs Mirror: Dirk Willems

– read by Reno Stevanus

Early Anabaptist Story in Drama:

“A Kitchen Evangelist: Margaret Hellwart, 1610”

Background – WL, Margaret – Kristy Keim, Constable – Bob Gerber

~Praising and Praying~

Hymn of Praise: VT 809 Sing a New World into Being

Prayers of the People

~Readings & Reflection~

Scriptures:

Matthew 20:28 – Mike Gehman

Philippians 2:3-4 – Bertie Showers

Romans 12:10 – Suzanne Stauffer

Matthew 25:35-40 – Hannah Gehman

Matthew 10:45 – Mike Gehman

Proverbs 19:17 – Hannah Gehman

Reading: VT 1037 - Helene Torgler

Christmas Carol: VT 245 O Little Town of Bethlehem (vs. 3)

Reading: VT 1021 – Mike Keim

Reading: from The Mood of Christmas and Other Celebrations by Howard Thurman –read by Nancy Yoder

Global Story: Mary Weaver, Bluffton, OH – read by April Shupe

Reading: VT 1035 -read by Bruce Stauffer

Hymn: VT 778 Will You Let Me Be Your Servant

~Responding~

Statement of Covenant: (Together)

We are not called to be fearful, we are called to love.

We are not called to be perfect, we are called to be faithful.

We are not called to be fearless, we are called to be obedient.

We are not called to be all-knowing, we are called to believe.

We are not called to claim, we are called to give.

We are not called to be victorious, we are called to be courageous.

We are not called to lord it over others, we are called to serve.

For it is in serving that we shall reign, it is through courage that we

shall find victory, it is in giving all that we shall gain all, it is in

believing that we shall overcome, it is in faithfulness that we shall find

perfections, it is in loving that we shall dispel fear, it is in slavery to

Christ and his justice that we shall find freedom, now and forever,

for ourselves and for the world. Amen.

Offering Prayer

Hymn of Response: VT 722 Help Us to Help Each Other, Lord

~Sending~

Benediction Prayer

Sending Hymn: VT 810 Go, My Friends, in Grace

Sending Words:

ALL: May you see the face of Christ in everyone you meet, and may

everyone you meet see the face of Christ in you.

Leader: Go in peace. Remember the poor.

ALL: Thanks be to God.

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Tabby Murphy

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Head Usher: Monk Yoder

Our On-Going Series on Anabaptist Beliefs:

In 2018 Lisa Weaver and Elizabeth Miller, as part of the Bearing Witness Stories project, wrote a book for children entitled Let the

Children Come to Me: Nurturing Anabaptist Faith within Families.

“The materials gathered together in this book beautifully

illustrate the central convictions of the Anabaptist tradition.”

-John D. Roth, Director of the Institute for the

Study of Global Anabaptism

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for January: Friends of the Homeless of Tuscarawas County

Please have your year-end reports into the office by the end of January so Tabby can begin to type up the annual report. Thank you!

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Amy Stauffer-McNutt: Prayers for Gretta and her friend Ethan as they travel to Camp Friedenswald for the high school winter camp.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Sue Staffer: Prayers for Deb and Jim Cahill as the continue with 10 days of chemo treatments.

Bruce Stauffer: Tom and Elaine Weygandt, Elaine fell on ice and had injured her brain and is predicted to have a long recovery.

Linda Yoder: Rebecca from the Rebecca restaurant in Walnut Creek has died of cancer.

THIS WEEK

Jan. 12 ^th Happy Birthday, Joan Lingler

Jan. 14 ^th Happy Birthday, Monk Yoder

NEXT WEEK

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Bruce Stauffer

Head Usher: Monk Yoder

Note: We will be wrapping up our Anabaptism at 500 series next week, meeting

in the Royal Bible Classroom.

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 21

Offering: $1838

Change for a dollar: $24

White Gift: $100

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor: Mike Gehman: 1-330-749-674

Email: pastor@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30a.m.-2:30p.m

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler

Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Dec. 28, 2025

Sat, 27 Dec 2025 15:45:52 GMT

Christmas 2025: Be Amazed!

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

December 28, 2025

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Sunday After Christmas

Be Amazed: God Among Us

~Gathering~

Prelude: “What Child Is This” -performed by The Piano Guys

Welcome& Announcements

Opening Hymn: HWB 16 God is Here Among Us

Advent Scripture: Habakkuk 1:5

“Look at the nations and see! Be astonished! Be astounded!

For work is being done in your days that you

would not believe, even if you were told.”

Focus Statement:

Imagine the silence of a great wilderness. Do you hear a sound? It is a powerful voice calling us to prepare the way of the Lord even after Christmas has been packed away. Listen closely---he tells an amazing story of a dove as the Spirit of God searching for a home, scissoring through the air, coming finally to land on the shoulder of Jesus.

Time of Meditation : “In the Bleak Midwinter”

-performed by Mike Gehman and April Shupe

Call to Worship: ( Based on John 1:19-34)

Leader: In the wilderness, a voice cries out: “Prepare the way

of the Lord!”

People: We have heard the call; we have watched for the

light.

Leader: The One we waited for has come--- a gentle dove, a

vulnerable child.

People: We have seen the Christ child among the poor; we

have heard the soft flutter of wings.

Leader: This is how God arrives among us—not in power and

might, but in vulnerable love.

People: Your ways are not our ways, O God.

Leader: Come, let us worship the One who has come among

us, the Lamb of God, the light of the world.

All: We stand in amazement—Christ has been revealed!

Opening Prayer

Advent Candlelight Litany (Mike Keim, candlelighter)

Leader: We have been waiting in the long, dark night, waiting

for your light of hope, peace, joy and love to reveal

itself and shine on us. Shine in on us.

People: Come, Light of the world. Amaze us!

All: May your light shine through the dark, illuminating

your path, illuminating our souls.

Carol : HWB 201 Hark! the Herald Angels Sing

~Praying & Praising~

Old Testament Scripture : Isaiah 61: 1-4 (NIV)

Prayers of the People

Carol: HWB 211 Lo, How A Rose E’er Blooming

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: John 1:29-34 (NRSV, Updated Edition)

Be Amazed Story: The Man and the Birds

Special Music: “O Come, All Ye Faithful”

-performed by Laura and Doug Kaufman

(Laura is the granddaughter of Bertie Showers)

Message: “Jesus, the Lamb of God”

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: HWB 189 To Us a Child of Hope Is Born

(the offering will be brought forth at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Benediction

Sending Hymn: HWB 210 Good Christian Friends, Rejoice

Sending Words: Habakkuk 3: 17-19

Postlude: “Angels From the Realms of Glory”

-performed by The Piano Guys

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Tabby Murphy

Song Leader: April Shupe

Usher: Leadership Team

Cover Art: Sustenance for Wholly Living: The Spirit

Medium – Fabric

Artist Statement: My art seldom appears in straight lines. Rather, as I

tend to experience life and nature, it reflects in winding, meandering

shapes and curves, with contrasts of lightness and darkness; brightness

and obscurity; structure and fluidity. My work sometimes bleeds past the margins, implying something beyond. An added layer of fabric or paper suggests more complexity, perhaps mystery, as each layer affects another layer. I aspire to allow elements within the art to interact, mirroring my own yearning for harmony, even through the emerging tensions that occur within the creative process.

Advent / Christmas 2025:

This year, our theme, “Be Amazed!” has invited us to notice the surprising and powerful ways in which God shows up—even when we least expect it. We invite you to immerse yourself in the visuals and explore the theme, “Be Amazed!” in several ways:

*One way is through the picture you will see each week on the big

screen as you walk into the sanctuary. Even before the service begins,

you can look at the picture and along with it, the introductory

scripture which you can read in the Bibles located in the pews, or

bring your own Bible. This way you can contemplate the story of the

scripture passage and prepare for the worship to follow.

*Another way we invite you to explore the theme is through the symbol

of a star. The stars remind us of God’s mysterious and guiding

presence—distant yet near, powerful yet gentle. Like the blazing stars

in the sky, God’s glory is sometimes hidden from view by our

distractions, expectations or the “clouds” of daily life. Yet, the light of

God is always shining—waiting for us to notice. Just as the

Magi followed the star to find Christ, we too are invited to look up,

notice, and be amazed by God’s presence. Watch as this display

becomes brighter each week to reflect the growing light and clarity

of God’s revelation, culminating in the full radiance of Christ’s birth

at Christmas. We also invite you to ponder God’s amazing stories

represented by the symbols placed on the altar each Sunday:

Advent 1: Hope in the Fire (stained glass window w/candle}

Advent 2: Peace in the Valley of Bones (bones w/sprigs of greens)

Advent 3: Joy in the Desert (a Christmas Cactus)

Advent 4: Love Comes Down (a lighted Nativity)

Today: God Among Us (Dove)

May this light call us to look up, look around, and be amazed at the God who comes close—bringing hope, peace, joy, and love, even in the places you least expect it. May you find wonder in the work God is doing in your life this Christmas!

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Melanie Blauch Archer: I saw Margaret Cheslock this week, she wanted me to tell everyone she said hello.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Bruce Stauffer: Friend’s wife, Elaine Weygandt, fell on ice. She is suffering from a brain bleed and brain swelling, she has a long road to recovery and needs prayers.

Melanie Blauch Archer: Dave scrapped his foot and is in pain, he will be going to the ER this morning. Also, Kathy Hamilton had pneumonia and passed away.

April Shupe: Fran Mast nerve pain in her mouth has returned and needs prayers.

Sue Stauffer: Jim Cahill is not doing well; his heart is having a hard time working and they don’t think the chemo is doing any good. Also, Pen pal from France husband, Eric Main, has fallen and is in the nursing home, he suffers from dementia.

THIS WEEK

Dec. 29 ^th Happy Birthday, Gloria Snyder

Dec. 31 ^st Happy Birthday, Chris Gerber

Jan. 1 ^st Happy Birthday, Casey Kalb

Jan. 3 ^rd Happy Birthday, Myrna Jaberg

NEXT WEEK: EPIPHANY

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Dan Hostetler

Head Usher: Monk Yoder

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 22

Offering: $2443

Change for a dollar: $29

White Gift: $100

Christmas Eve

Attendance 41

Offering: $100

White Gift: $109

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Dec. 21, 2025

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 15:20:30 GMT

Advent 2025: Be Amazed!

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

December 21, 2025

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Advent Three

Be Amazed: Joy in the Desert

~Gathering~

Preludes: “I Wonder as I Wander” – arr. Jay Rouse

“Twas in the Moon of Wintertime” – arr. Mark Hayes

Welcome& Announcements

Opening Hymn: VT 237 Now the Heavens Start to Whisper

Advent Scripture: Habakkuk 1:5

“Look at the nations and see! Be astonished! Be astounded!

For work is being done in your days that you

would not believe, even if you were told.”

Focus Statement:

Imagine wandering thirsty through a desert wasteland and happening upon a spring of clear, cold water. On this third Sunday of Advent, you are invited to lay down your cares; find rest, comfort and joy in God’s amazing provision, in the places where you least expect it.

Time of Meditation : “ Silent Night”

– arr. Rachel Trelstad Porte

Call to Worship : (based on Isaiah 55:1-13)

Leader: Come, all who hunger and thirst for more—God calls

us to the feast!

People: We are weary exiles, longing for home, caught in a

world that drains our hope.

Leader: “Listen, so that you may live! My covenant is

everlasting, my promise sure.”

People: The invitation is for all people, from the farthest

reaches on the earth.

Leader: The word of the Lord does not return empty—it

brings forth life!

People: The mountains and the hills will burst into song, the

trees of the field will clap their hands!

All: You are the source of true joy, O God. You expand

our vision, lifting our eyes beyond the moment,

beyond despair, into amazement. We stand before

you, ready to enter your story and be amazed.

Opening Prayer

Advent Candlelight Litany (Mike Keim, candlelighter)

Leader: We have been wandering in the dark, cold desert of

grief and despair, and we feel heavy, dry and lifeless.

People: Come, Joy of the world. Come amaze us.

All: May your joy water our thirsty souls, that we may

become your fountains of joy, freely sharing your joy

with the world.

Hymn: VT 218 Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus

~Praying & Praising~

Old Testament Scripture : Isaiah 55:1, 6, 9-12

Be Amazed Story: “Joy in the Chaos” -read by Nancy Yoder

Prayers of the People

Christmas Carol: VT 248 It Came Upon a Midnight Clear

Advent Four

Be Amazed: Love Comes Down

~Hearing God’s Word~

Focus Statement:

Imagine standing on a hill and peering through a powerful telescope at star clusters billions of light-years away. From the Creator of this mysterious vastness is gifted to you a single word—love. See it move as a baby’s hand in the light of a candle’s tiny flame. Amid the noise of violence and the dirty straw of your darkest hour, wait and look for the light—God’s gift dwelling here.

Scripture: John 1:1-5, 10, 14

Message: “Be Amazed: Love Comes Down”

~Responding~

Advent Four Candlelight Litany:

Leader: We have been wandering in the long, dark night,

looking into the vastness, looking for even a glimmer

of light, to usher in your love.

People: Come, Love of the world. Come amaze us.

All: May your love dispel the darkness and reveal your

path of grace and mercy, inviting us to journey with

you.

Hymn of Response: VT 255 Love Came Down at Christmas

(the offering will be brought forth at this time)

Offering Prayer:

Leader: God, we are thirsty and you call us to your waters.

But sometimes we try to slake our thirst from other

sources.

People: Forgive us when we turn away from the living

water that you offer.

Leader: God, we are hungry and you offer us bread without

cost. But sometimes we pay too much for food that

does not nourish.

People: Forgive us when we do not accept your gracious

provision.

Leader: Forgive us, God, for the many ways we fail to trust

you:

People: when we spend our money for that which is not

bread and our labor for that which does not satisfy.

Leader: God, we seek you; we call upon you.

ALL: Have mercy on us, for we know that you abundantly

pardon. Accept our offerings and use them for good.

Bless them and endow us with your mercy, your

grace, and your desire to bring peace and joy to our

world. Amen.

~Sending~

Benediction

Sending Hymn: VT 847 You Shall Go Out with Joy

Sending Words: Habakkuk 3: 17-19

Postlude : “Cold December Flies Away”

– Spanish carol arr. by Anna Laura Page

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Guest Minister: Ernie Hershberger

Worship Leader: Bruce Stauffer

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Song Leader: April Shupe

Usher: Herb Torgler

Please note that the music for our Advent services is carefully chosen to represent the meditative side of Advent as reflected in the night sky on the altar. Different arrangements of "Silent Night" will be used each Sunday during the Time of Meditation to emphasize the theme.

Cover Art: Visio Divina—The Clapping Trees

ARTIST: Len Rempel (Visio Divina Collection, 2023)

Inside Art: In the Beginning was the Word

ARTIST: Gwen M. Stamm (USA)

Advent 2025:

This year, our theme is, “Be Amazed!” Each week, we’ll be invited to notice the surprising and powerful ways in which God shows up—even when we least expect it. We invite you to immerse yourself in the visuals and explore the theme, “Be Amazed!” in several ways:

*One way is through the picture you will see each week on the big

screen as you walk into the sanctuary. Even before the service begins,

you can look at the picture and along with it, the introductory

scripture which you can read in the Bibles located in the pews, or

bring your own Bible. This way you can contemplate the story of the

scripture passage and prepare for the worship to follow.

*Another way we invite you to explore the theme is through the symbol

of a star. The stars remind us of God’s mysterious and guiding

presence—distant yet near, powerful yet gentle. Like the blazing stars

in the sky, God’s glory is sometimes hidden from view by our

distractions, expectations or the “clouds” of daily life. Yet, the light of

God is always shining—waiting for us to notice. Just as the

Magi followed the star to find Christ, we too are invited to look up,

notice, and be amazed by God’s presence. Watch as this display

becomes brighter each week to reflect the growing light and clarity

of God’s revelation, culminating in the full radiance of Christ’s birth

at Christmas. We also invite you to ponder God’s amazing stories represented by the symbols placed on the altar each Sunday.

As we wait for the fullness of Christmas, may this light call us to look up, look around, and be amazed at the God who comes close—bringing hope, peace, joy, and love, even in the places you least expect it. May you find wonder in the work God is doing in your life this Christmas!

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for December: White Gift Offering

During the four Sundays of Advent, we will be collecting to replenish the Deacon’s Fund, which is money available to members of our church in need. Look for the specially designated green sleigh as you enter the sanctuary. You can give cash or make a check out to FMC designated White Gift. Let’s fill the sleigh to help others on their way!

Special Thanksgiving / Christmas Project: Garaway Pirate Power Packs

The Garaway Pirate Power Pack Program, sponsored by the Sugarcreek United Church of Christ, meets monthly to pack over 350 bags full of food for local students. We will be collecting the following items over the next several weeks to help provide food for this program:

Ramen noodles cans of corn cans of green beans

cans of ravioli cans of tomato soup cans of pork and beans

cans of chicken noodle soup

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

April Shupe: Bruce and Sue are visiting Megan and Brent this Sunday; Bruce is doing better and will be here next Sunday.

Mennonite Mission Network: Praise God that Caleb Schrock-Hurst, who serves jointly with Mennonite Mission Network and Virginia Mennonite Missions, has successfully finished his cancer treatments and is cancer free. Now, he and his wife, Stephanie, are moving forward with their plans to respond to an invitation to go to Mennonite Christian Hospital in Taiwan. Pray for physical and spiritual health as they resume preparations that were put on hold for the past year.

THIS WEEK

Dec. 21 ^st Happy Anniversary, Wayne & Dorothy Schrock

Dec. 24 ^th Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, 6pm

Dec. 26 ^th Happy Anniversary, Monroe & Susan Yoder

Dec. 27 ^th Happy Anniversary, Nate & Vi Miller

NEXT WEEK

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Tabatha Murphy

Head Usher: Herb Torgler

LAST WEEK (12/7)

Attendance: 18

Offering: $2045

Change for a dollar: $34.35

Garaway Power Pack: $40

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Dec. 14, 2025

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 14:59:29 GMT

Advent 2025: Be Amazed!

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

December 14, 2025

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Advent Three: Joy in the Desert

~Gathering~

Preludes: “I Wonder as I Wander” – arr. Jay Rouse

“Twas in the Moon of Wintertime” – arr. Mark Hayes

Welcome& Announcements

Opening Hymn: VT 237 Now the Heavens v3

Advent Scripture: Habakkuk 1:5

“Look at the nations and see! Be astonished! Be astounded!

For work is being done in your days that you

would not believe, even if you were told.”

Focus Statement:

Time of Meditation : “ Silent Night”

– arr. Rachel Trelstad Porte

Call to Worship:

Leader: Come, all who hunger and thirst for more—God calls

us to the feast!

People: We are weary exiles, longing for home, caught in a

world that drains our hope.

Leader: “Listen, so that you may live! My covenant is

everlasting, my promise sure.”

People: The invitation is for all people, from the farthest

reaches on the earth.

Leader: The word of the Lord does not return empty—it

brings forth life!

People: The mountains and the hills will burst into song, the

trees of the field will clap their hands!

All: You are the source of true joy, O God. You expand

our vision, lifting our eyes beyond the moment,

beyond despair, into amazement. We stand before

you, ready to enter your story and be amazed.

Opening Prayer

Advent Candlelighting Litany (Mike Keim, candlelighter)

Leader: We have been wandering in the dark, cold desert of

grief and despair, and we feel heavy, dry and lifeless.

People: Come, Joy of the world. Come amaze us.

All: May your joy water our thirsty souls, that we may

become your fountains of joy, freely sharing your joy

with the world.

Hymn: VT 218 Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus

~Praying & Praising~

Old Testament Scripture : Psalm 42

Prayers of the People

Christmas Carol: VT 248 It Came Upon a Midnight Clear

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Isaiah 55:1, 6, 9-12

Be Amazed Story: “Joy in the Chaos”

-read by Nancy Yoder

Message: “Come to the Lord. Receive his joy, comfort, and

peace.”

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: VT 209 We Dream of a Turning

(the offering will be brought forth at this time)

Offering Prayer:

Leader: God, we are thirsty and you call us to your waters. But

sometimes we try to slake our thirst from other sources.

People: Forgive us when we turn away from the living water

that you offer.

Leader: God, we are hungry and you offer us bread without cost.

But sometimes we pay too much for food that does not

nourish.

People: Forgive us when we do not accept your gracious

provision.

Leader: Forgive us, God, for the many ways we fail to trust you:

People: when we spend our money for that which is not

bread and our labor for that which does not satisfy.

Leader: God, we seek you; we call upon you.

ALL: Have mercy on us, for we know that you abundantly

Pardon. Accept our offerings and use them for good.

Bless them and endow us with your mercy, your grace,

and your desire to bring peace and joy to our world.

Amen.

~Sending~

Benediction

Sending Hymn: VT 847 You Shall Go Out with Joy

Sending Words: Habakkuk 3: 17-19

Postlude : “Cold December Flies Away”

– Spanish carol arr. by Anna Laura Page

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Bruce Stauffer

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Song Leader: April Shupe

Usher: Herb Torgler

Cover Art: Visio Divina—The Clapping Trees

ARTIST: Len Rempel (Visio Divina Collection, 2023)

Advent 2025:

*One way is through the picture you will see each week on the big

screen as you walk into the sanctuary. Even before the service begins,

you can look at the picture and along with it, the introductory

scripture which you can read in the Bibles located in the pews, or

bring your own Bible. This way you can contemplate the story of the

scripture passage and prepare for the worship to follow.

*Another way we invite you to explore the theme is through the symbol

of a star. The stars remind us of God’s mysterious and guiding

presence—distant yet near, powerful yet gentle. Like the blazing stars

in the sky, God’s glory is sometimes hidden from view by our

distractions, expectations or the “clouds” of daily life. Yet, the light of

God is always shining—waiting for us to notice. Just as the

Magi followed the star to find Christ, we too are invited to look up,

notice, and be amazed by God’s presence. Watch as this display

becomes brighter each week to reflect the growing light and clarity

of God’s revelation, culminating in the full radiance of Christ’s birth

at Christmas. We also invite you to ponder God’s amazing stories represented by the symbols placed on the altar each Sunday.

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for December: White Gift Offering

Special Thanksgiving / Christmas Project: Garaway Pirate Power Packs

Ramen noodles cans of corn cans of green beans

cans of ravioli cans of tomato soup cans of pork and beans

cans of chicken noodle soup

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

April Shupe: Bruce and Sue are visiting Megan and Brent this Sunday; Bruce is doing better and will be here next Sunday.

THIS WEEK

Dec. 21 ^st Happy Anniversary, Wayne & Dorothy Schrock

NEXT WEEK

Guest Minister: Ernie Hershberger

Worship Leader: Tabatha Murphy

Head Usher: Herb Torgler

UPCOMING EVENTS

Dec. 24 ^th Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 6pm

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 18

Offering: $2045

Change for a dollar: $34.35

Garaway Power Pack: $40

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Dec. 7, 2025

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 15:13:58 GMT

Advent 2025: Be Amazed!

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

December 7, 2025

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Advent Two: Peace in the Valley of Bones

~Gathering~

Preludes: “O Little Town of Bethlehem” -arr. Mark Hayes

For Christ is born of Mary, and gathered all above,

While mortals sleep, the angels keep their watch of wond’ring love.

O morning stars together proclaim the holy birth!

And praises sing to God the king, and peace to all the earth!

Welcome& Announcements

Opening Hymn: VT 237 Now the Heavens

(listen to verse 1, sing verse 2)

Advent Scripture: Habakkuk 1:1-5

“Look at the nations and see! Be astonished! Be astounded!

For work is being done in your days that you

would not believe, even if you were told.”

Focus Statement:

Imagine a valley full of dry bones, with not a breath of wind. Then a noise, a rattling sound as the bones come together, bone to bone, tendon to tendon. In this miraculous vision given to the prophet Ezekiel, God breathes life into the bones so that they may dance

again. Come, Holy Spirit! We pray on this second Sunday of

Advent for peace as a renewal of body, mind, and spirit.

Time of Meditation : “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”

-performed by The Piano Guys

Call to Worship:

Leader: God in our desert, you are our peace to all places.

People: Our bones are dried up, and our hope is lost; we are

cut off completely.

Leader: Thus says the LORD GOD: “Come from the four

winds, O breath, and breathe upon these slain, that

they may live.”

People: Can these dry bones live?

Leader: The wind of God moves among these dry bones.

Stand and live!

People: We are the people of God, a vast multitude, filled

with God’s Spirit.

Leader: “I will put my spirit within you, and you shall live.

I will place you on your own soil; then you shall

Know that I, the LORD, have spoken and will act,”

says the LORD.

All: You are the only source of true life, O God. You

breathe new life into our dry bones and fill us with

your peace. We stand before you, ready to enter your

story and be amazed.

Opening Prayer

Advent Candlelighting Litany (Mike Keim, candlelighter)

Leader: We have been wandering in the dark, our spirits dry

and cracked from conflict, aching for peace to pour

into the crevices to revive us.

People: Come, Peace of the world. Come amaze us.

All: May Your peace fill the cracks in our dry, brittle

bones. Bind us together, strengthen and unite us,

that we might dance!

Hymn: HWB 174 Bless’d Be the God of Israel

~Praying & Praising~

Old Testament Scripture : Psalm 130:1-8 (NIV)

Prayers of the People

Christmas Carol: HWB 191 O Little Town of Bethlehem

-accompanied by Kaleb Brasee

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Ezekiel 37:1-14

Be Amazed Story: “Peace in the Valley of Bones”

-read by Nancy Yoder

Message: “ Breathe on us Spirit of God; restore life, peace,

and hope!”

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: HWB 26 Holy Spirit, Come With Power

-performed by Berlin Mennonite Church

(the offering will be brought forth at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Benediction

Sending Hymn: HWB 356 Breathe on Me, Breath of God

-accompanied by by Sangah Noona

Sending Words: Habakkuk 3: 17-19

Postlude : Come, Gentle Peace -music by Lloyd Larsen,

Words by Joseph Martin and Jonathan Martin

Come gentle peace, sing to our pain,

Comfort the world, let the healing begin.

Bring us your goodness, show us your dream,

Teach all creation your beautiful theme.

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader Helene Torgler

Song Leader: April Shupe

Usher: Herb Torgler

Cover Art: Can These Bones Live? by Josh Tiessen, is a painting representing the dry bones story in Ezekiel. He writes: I approached my painting as a modern interpretation, seeing the Monarch Butterfly as symbolic of breathing new life into lifeless human bones.

Advent 2025:

*One way is through the picture you will see each week on the big

screen as you walk into the sanctuary. Even before the service begins,

you can look at the picture and along with it, the introductory

scripture which you can read in the Bibles located in the pews, or

bring your own Bible. This way you can contemplate the story of the

scripture passage and prepare for the worship to follow.

*Another way we invite you to explore the theme is through the symbol

of a star. The stars remind us of God’s mysterious and guiding

presence—distant yet near, powerful yet gentle. Like the blazing stars

in the sky, God’s glory is sometimes hidden from view by our

distractions, expectations or the “clouds” of daily life. Yet, the light of

God is always shining—waiting for us to notice. Just as the

Magi followed the star to find Christ, we too are invited to look up,

notice, and be amazed by God’s presence. Watch as this display

becomes brighter each week to reflect the growing light and clarity

of God’s revelation, culminating in the full radiance of Christ’s birth

at Christmas. We also invite you to ponder God’s amazing stories represented by the symbols placed on the altar each Sunday.

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for December: White Gift Offering

Special Thanksgiving / Christmas Project: Garaway Pirate Power Packs

Ramen noodles cans of corn cans of green beans

cans of ravioli cans of tomato soup cans of pork and beans

cans of chicken noodle soup

Lessons and Carols Service at St. Joseph Catholic Church is this evening at 6:00 p.m. (prelude beginning at 5:30). The public is invited to join in this special community Advent service. The service will include choirs from the surrounding area, a brass ensemble, hand-bell choir, the singing of carols, and readings from Sacred Scripture.

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Brad Shupe: Dad is home and is doing well after hip replacement.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

April Shupe: Sue had to take Bruce to the ER this morning, prayers for healing.

Mike Gehman: Friend who has brain cancer needs prayers. Also, Barb Debor, the Lutheran minister, is on life support.

THIS WEEK

Dec. 7th Lessons & Carols at St. Joseph in Dover, 5:30 pm

Dec. 11 ^th Happy Birthday, Sue Stauffer

NEXT WEEK

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Bruce Stauffer

Head Usher: Herb Torgler

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 16

Offering: $951

Change for a dollar: $17

Food Bank: $50

White Gift: $10

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Nov. 30, 2025

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 15:11:46 GMT

Advent 2025: Be Amazed!

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

November 30, 2025

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Advent One: Hope in the Furnace

~Gathering~

Preludes:

"I Wonder as I Wander" - Appalachian folk song --arr. Jay Rouse

"I wonder as I wander out under the sky..."

"In the Bleak Midwinter" --arr. Larry Shackley

Welcome& Announcements

Opening Hymn: VT 237 Now the Heavens v1

Advent Scripture: Habakkuk 1:1-5

The prophecy that Habakkuk the prophet received. How long, Lord, must I call for help, but you do not listen? Or cry out to you, “Violence!” but you do not save? Why do you make me look at injustice? Why do you tolerate wrongdoing? Destruction and violence are before me; there is strife, a conflict abounds.

Therefore the law is paralyzed, a justice never prevails. The wicked hem in the righteous, so that justice is perverted.

“Look at the nations and see! Be astonished! Be astounded!

For work is being done in your days that you

would not believe, even if you were told.”

Focus Statement:

Imagine stepping into a blazing furnace with Shadrach, Meshach and Abendigo in a trial by fire, trusting God with your life. Although today’s trials seem less terrifying, they are still trials—stories of injustice, poverty, and tragedy from our lives, communities and the larger world. At the beginning of Advent, as the light dims, and we wonder how long we must wait, we also tell amazing stories of hope, stories of a God who saves so that we may emerge singing:

Oh, great is the Lord! Thy name shall endure!

Let heaven and earth, oh, let all sing Thy praise!

Time of Meditation: "O Lord of Light, Who Made the Stars /

"Of the Father's Love Begotten" - arr. Curt Oliver

Call to Worship:

Leader: God of our ancestors, you are our constant hope through

all ages.

People: We come eager for stories of you standing among us.

We come longing to feel your presence among your

people once again.

Leader: As the days darken around us, hope can feel a distant

memory.

People: Even in the middle of trials, we keep our eyes on

you. Our allegiance is to you alone.

Leader: Trust in God’s steadfast love. Stand in amazement,

ready to recognize God already among us here, in this

place.

All: Our hope is in you, O God. Fill our hearts with the

courage of our ancestors. Ready us to enter their story

and be amazed.

Opening Prayer

Advent Candlelighting Litany (Mike Keim, candlelighter)

Leader: We have been wandering in the dark, fear engulfing

us like a burning furnace. We long for your hope to

find us and silence the flames of our fears.

People: Come, Hope of the world. Come amaze us!

All: May your hope flood the flames of our fears.

Hymn: VT 210 O Come, O Come, Immanuel

~Praying & Praising~

Old Testament Scripture : Psalm 26:1-7

Prayers of the People

Christmas Carol: VT 265 Angels, from the Realms of Glory

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Daniel 3:1, 8-30

Be Amazed Story: Hope in the Furnace -read by Brad Shupe

Message

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: VT 570 When We Walk with the Lord

(the offering will be brought forth at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Benediction

Sending Hymn: HWB 79 Lord, With Devotion We Pray

Sending Words: Habakkuk 3: 17-19

Postlude : "Cold December Flies Away"

- Spanish carol arr. by Anna Laura Page

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader April Shupe

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Song Leader: April Shupe

Usher: Leadership Team

Cover Art: Adrianoupolitis Konstantinos (ca. 1750-1799) - The story of Daniel and the Three Youths in the Fiery Furnace

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for November: Dover-Phila Food Bank

The Dover-New Phila Food Pantry’s mission is simple: No one in need is ever turned away, and recipients can come anytime they are open and from anywhere. They are a community-based food pantry supported by the community. Please make out checks to FMC and Bruce will send one check at the end of the month to the Food Bank. (today is the last day to donate)

Special Thanksgiving / Christmas Project: Garaway Pirate Power Packs

Ramen noodles cans of corn cans of green beans

cans of ravioli cans of tomato soup cans of pork and beans

cans of chicken noodle soup

Lessons and Carols Service at St. Joseph Catholic Church is on Sunday December 7, 6:00 p.m. (prelude beginning at 5:30). The public is invited to join in this special community Advent service. The service will include choirs from the surrounding area, a brass ensemble, hand-bell choir, the singing of carols, and readings from Sacred Scripture.

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Mike Gehman: Thankful Hannah and I are here today and are on the mend.

Sue Stauffer: Classmate from Arizona came through and met with 6 other classmates, we all had a great time.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Sue Stauffer: Jim Cahill is not doing well and is very ill. He will be starting another round of chemo and might have to move back to hope lodge.

THIS WEEK

Dec. 1 ^st Happy Birthday, Rick Maurer

Dec. 5 ^th Happy Birthday, Alex Snyder

Dec. 6th Light Up Sugarcreek, 4-6:30 pm

Dec. 7th Lessons & Carols at St. Joseph in Dover, 5:30 pm

NEXT WEEK

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Helene Torgler

Head Usher: Herb Torgler

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 16

Offering: $1210

Change for a dollar: $36

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Nov. 23, 2025

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 14:40:45 GMT

Anabaptism At Five Hundred

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

November 23, 2025

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30 – 12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

*********************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Anabaptism at 500

Belief Nine: Communion

~Gathering in the Royal Bible Classroom~

(around tables)

Welcome and Announcements

Focus Statement:

The Lord’s Supper is the last meal that Jesus shared with his disciples

before he was crucified on the cross. While eating this meal of bread and

wine, Jesus said, “Do this in remembrance of me.” Communion is the

religious practice of sharing bread and wine (or juice) as part of a

worship service. Anabaptists in the sixteenth century differed from the

state churches in their understanding of communion. Anabaptists

understood the bread and cup as symbols of the body and blood of Jesus,

rather than believing that an actual transformation of the elements

took place. Anabaptists shared communion as a way to remember and

renew their commitment to the church community and to the teachings

of Jesus. Anabaptists also began the practice of serving communion to

one another, instead of requiring a priest to do so. This understanding

of ministering to one another is known as the Priesthood of All

Believers.

Scripture: Luke 22:19-20

“Then he took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks,

he broke it and gave it to them, saying,

‘This is my body, which is given for you.

Do this in remembrance of me.’

And he did the same with the cup after supper, saying,

‘This cup that is poured out for you is the

new covenant in my blood.’”

Time of Meditation : HWB 94 Come, Ye Thankful People

Call to Worship:

Leader: As God’s people, we have gathered. We may be discouraged,

dismayed, discordant with life.

People: Let us sit together, sharing the solace of silence. Let us

possess the peace of God’s presence and be wrapped in the

warmth of God’s love. Let us be comforted and quieted,

prepared for communion with God and fellowship with one

another.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: HWB 17 We Gather Together

~Storytelling~

Early Anabaptist Story from Martyrs Mirror:

Story about the Sacraments – read by April Shupe

Early Anabaptist Story in Drama #1:

Medicine for Christ’s Body?: Pilgram Marpeck, 1531

Narrator –Hannah Gehman, Spiritualist – Mike Gehman,

Marpeck – Reno Stevanus

~Praising and Praying~

Hymn of Praise: HWB 86 Now Thank We All Our

Prayers of the People

~Storytelling and Communion~

Global Story: Cheyenne Peace Chief Lawrence Hart

read by – Helene Torgler

Scripture: Colossians 3:1-17

Reader 1 – Bertie Showers

Reader 2 – Bruce Stauffer

Reader 3 – Nancy Yoder

Hymn: HWB 453 Let Us Break Bread Together

From the Schleitheim Confession, Article Third .

Concerning the breaking of bread we have become one and agree thus…

– read by Suzanne Stauffer

Communion Service

(sharing of the bread and the cup with each other)

Invitation to the Communion Table

Leader: As John baptized Jesus in the Jordan, the Holy Spirit

baptized the body of Christ. God now gathers us at

these tables as the body of Christ to hear the voice of

heaven, spoken over the waters of baptism, saying,

“You are my beloved.”

People: Water, bread, and wine, the gifts of the earth, the gifts of the

church, reveal that we belong with God and one another.

Leader: Come with your hunger. Come with your thirst.

ALL: This is Christ’s table. This is our feast. Come, Holy Spirit!

Communion Prayer—Inspired by Early Christian Practice

Leader: May God be with you!

People: And also with you.

Leader: Lift up your hearts!

People: We lift them up to God.

Leader: Let us give thanks to God .

People: It is good to give thanks and praise.

Leader: It is a good and joyful thing always and everywhere to give

thanks to you, Holy One. With your people on earth and all

the company of heaven we praise your name and join their

unending hymn:

ALL: Holy, holy, holy, God of power and might, heaven and earth

are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is the

one who comes in your name. Hosanna in the highest.

Leader: And so we proclaim this mystery of faith:

ALL: Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.

Leader: We praise you, all holy God, the Father, the Son, the Holy

Spirit, today, tomorrow, and forever. Amen!

ALL: Amen!

Leader: Let us pray together the Lord’s Prayer:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses

as we forgive those who trespass against us.

And lead us not into temptation.

But deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom,

and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.

Leader: The gifts of God for the people of God.

People: Thanks be to God.

(Share the bread and cup.)

~Responding~

Prayer after Communion – Iona Community

Leader: In deep gratitude for this moment, this time together, these

people, we give ourselves to you.

People: Send us to live as changed people because we have shared

the Living Bread and cannot remain the same. Ask much of

us, expect much from us, enable much by us, encourage

many through us.

All: So, God, may we glorify you as inhabitants of earth and

citizens of heaven. Amen.

Hymn of Response: HWB 472 I am the Bread of Life v. 1, 4, 5

HWB 96 We Plow the Fields and Scatter

~Sending~

Benediction

Sending Hymn: VT 812 Sent Forth by God’s Blessing

Sending Words:

ALL: We’ve seen diversity as a sign of love, and so we put on

love and live as one.

(The Passing of the Peace)

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Dan Hostetler

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Head Usher: Leadership Team

Our On-Going Series on Anabaptist Beliefs:

In 2018 Lisa Weaver and Elizabeth Miller, as part of the Bearing Witness Stories project, wrote a book for children entitled Let the

Children Come to Me: Nurturing Anabaptist Faith within Families.

“The materials gathered together in this book beautifully

illustrate the central convictions of the Anabaptist tradition.”

-John D. Roth, Director of the Institute for the

Study of Global Anabaptism

In conjunction with our Anabaptist at Five Hundred celebration this year, we would love to have pictures of any community, service and/or peace experiences our church members have experienced over the years. Please give to April or Tabby who will scan them into the computer. You will get them back.

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for November: Dover-Phila Food Bank

Special Thanksgiving / Christmas Project: Garaway Pirate Power Packs

Ramen noodles cans of corn cans of green beans

cans of ravioli cans of tomato soup cans of pork and beans

cans of chicken noodle soup

Bill & Jean Flinner new address: 1000 Addington Dr. Apt. 129

Russell, KY 41169

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

April Shupe: Thankful that Darcy Miller and Mike Gehman are both here with us today.

Sue Stauffer: Jim Cahill is finished with his chemo, he needs infusions but is starting to feel better.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Tabatha Murphy: Dylan’s grandma, Malinda Hamilton, had abdominal surgery, prayers for a speedy recovery.

April Shupe: Melanie Blauch Archer has diverticulitis, also Dick Douthitt is in the hospital.

THIS WEEK

Nov. 25 ^th Happy Birthday, Suzie Armstrong

Nov. 30 ^th Advent Begins

NEXT WEEK

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: April Shupe

Head Usher: Leadership Team

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 23

Offering: $1533

Change for a dollar: $22.03

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor: Mike Gehman: 1-330-749-674

Email: pastor@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30a.m.-2:30p.m

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler

Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Nov. 9, 2025

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 14:30:40 GMT

Taste and See That the Lord is Good!

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

November 9, 2025

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

~Gathering~

Prelude: "We Gather Together" - arr. Cindy Berry

Welcome& Announcements

Focus Statement:

In response to God’s invitation to the wedding feast of the Lamb, we must give a joyful “yes” through faith and repentance, responding with consistent communion, which is a foretaste of the heavenly banquet, and a life of perpetual thanksgiving for his unending grace.

Time of Meditation: "God Is Here Among Us"

- arr. Lee Dengler

Call to Worship: (based on Psalm 34)

(By Rev. Joanna Harader, from SpaciousFaith.com)

Leader: I will bless the Lord at all times;

People: We will bless our God at all times.

Leader: I will praise the Holy One with my voice.

People: Let us exalt God’s name together.

Leader: We are seeking,

People: And God will answer us.

Leader: We cry out for help,

People: And God will deliver us.

Leader: God will deliver us from our fears.

People: God will hear us and save us.

Leader: So come now, let us worship together.

All: Let us taste and see that our God is good.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: VT 47 God of Our Strength

~Praying & Praising~

Prayers of the People

Hymn of Praise: VT 467 Taste and See

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Luke 15: 20-24 – Read by Bruce

Revelation 19:6-9 – Read by April

Message: “The Table Is Set”

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: As We Gather At Your Table (in bulletin)

(the offering will be brought forth at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: VT 831 Blest Be the Tie That Binds

Benediction:

Leader: I pray that you, being rooted and established in love,

may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp

how wide and long and high and deep is the love of

Christ. And to know this love that surpasses

knowledge–that you may be filled to the measure of all

the fullness of God.

All: Now to God who is able to do immeasurably more than

all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at

work within us, to him be glory in the church and in

Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and

ever. Amen.

Postlude: "Bind Us Together: - arr. Mark Hayes

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Guest Minister: Darcy Miller

Worship Leader Tabby Murphy

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Song Leader: April Shupe

Usher: Leadership Team

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Reminder: There will be no church service held at FMC next Sunday, November 16 ^th . Please visit a church of your choice!

Mission Project for November: Dover-Phila Food Bank

Bill & Jean Flinner new address: 1000 Addington Dr. Apt. 129

Russell KY, 41169

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Sue Stauffer: In November we will have two daughters with birthdays.

Kristy Keim: Mike Gehman is home from the hospital

Bertie Showers: Brother Abe and Fran show up when April is gone to sit with me, Fan has had a knee surgery but is doing good.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Dan Hostetler: Friend went through first surgery and will have second surgery in 2months.

Sue Stauffer: Jim Cahill is in intense therapy with chemo and can’t have stem cell transplant until in remission.

Kristy Keim: Hannah is still struggling with her back pain.

Nancy Yoder: Son, Dan, has hurt his knee at work.

THIS WEEK

Nov. 10 ^th Happy Birthday, Braden Shupe

Nov. 12 ^th Happy Birthday, Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Nov. 16 ^th Church Visitation Sunday (no church at FMC)

UPCOMING EVENTS

Nov. 23 ^rd Thanksgiving Sunday

Nov. 30 ^th Advent Begins

IN TWO WEEKS

Note: On Sunday, November 23 ^rd , we will continue our Anabaptist at 500 celebration, meeting in the SS room beside the office.

Worship Leader: Dan Hostetler

Head Usher: Leadership Team

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 16

Offering: $875

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Nov. 2, 2025

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 13:57:40 GMT

Anabaptism At Five Hundred

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

November 2, 2025

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30 – 12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

*********************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Anabaptism at 500

Belief Ten : Believers Baptism

~Gathering in the Royal Bible Classroom~

(around tables)

Welcome and Announcements

Focus Statement:

The believer’s church is a community of people who have chosen to live out the

gospel of Jesus Christ together. For Anabaptists, believers’ baptism is the practice

by which a youth or adult joins a believer’s church community. The believer’s

church is separate from the civil government. Baptism can happen in several

ways. It may include the sprinkling or pouring of water on an individual’s head;

sometimes the person is immersed completely in water.

Scripture: Luke 3:21-22

Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also

had been baptized and was praying, the heaven was opened,

and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove.

Time of Meditation : VT 555 Lord, I Am Fondly, Earnestly Longing

Call to Worship: (Ephesians 4:1-6)

Leader: Lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been

called.

People: Be humble and gentle in every way. Be patient with each

other and lovingly accept each other.

Leader: Through the peace that ties you together, do your best to

maintain the unity that the Spirit gives.

People: There is one body and one Spirit. In the same way, we were

called to share one hope.

ALL: There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Creator

of all, who is over all, and through all, and in all.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: VT 387 We Are One in the Spirit

~Scripture and Stories~

Early Anabaptist Story: Anna Manz – Bertie Showers

Early Anabaptist Story in Drama #1:

“Baptisms in Felix Manz’s House: January 21, 1525”

Background – Worship Leader, Narrator – Reno Stevanus,

Reader 1 – Kristy Keim, Reader 2 – Bob Gerber

~Praising, Praying and Responding~

Hymn of Praise: HWB 438 I Sing with Exultation

Prayers of the People

~Storytelling~

Global Story: Wencesiao Flores and his wife Anatilde – Bruce Stauffer

Drama from the Martyrs Mirror:

“I Appeal to the Scriptures: Michael Sattler,1527”

Background – Worship Leader, Narrator - Helene Torgler ,

Count – Dan Hostetler, Sattler – Mike Keim, Clerk – Tabby Murphy

Hymn: VT 576 Who Now Would Follow Christ

Scriptures: Galatians 3:26-28 – Nancy Yoder

Matthew 28:16, 18-20 – Suzanne Stauffer

~Responding~

Prayer of Confession – read by congregation:

Sky-shattering God, we confess that we have not always paid much

attention to the baptism of Jesus, but viewed it as a nice story which

begins Jesus’ ministry. We don’t always see ourselves as standing in

that long line of those marked for service; and therefore it is easy for us

to dismiss this as a nice story and nothing more. Yet you have called us

by name, knowing each of us, and loving us. We are astonished by this.

We know that we have behaved in very unloving ways and in some

behaviors which do not promote your love and peace Forgive us for our

blindness. Turn us around. Help us to be people who not only recognize

the light, but who are willing to live in that light, bringing help to

others in your name. For we pray this in the name of Jesus Christ.

Amen.

Words of Assurance

Hymn of Response: VT 556 I Bind My Heart This Tide

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: VT 443 I Have Decided to Follow Jesus

Benediction Prayer

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: April Shupe

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Head Usher: Leadership Team

Our On-Going Series on Anabaptist Beliefs:

In 2018 Lisa Weaver and Elizabeth Miller, as part of the Bearing Witness Stories project, wrote a book for children entitled Let the

Children Come to Me: Nurturing Anabaptist Faith within Families.

“The materials gathered together in this book beautifully

illustrate the central convictions of the Anabaptist tradition.”

-John D. Roth, Director of the Institute for the

Study of Global Anabaptism

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for November: Homeless Shelter of Tuscarawas County

(more info coming next week)

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Bertie Showers: Thank you for all the prayers, I am feeling better.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Sue Stauffer: Friend, Janice Stouffer has died, prayers to friends and family. Also, French pen pal’s husband, Eric Main fell and is in the hospital. Jim Cahill’s cancer is back and will be starting chemo next week. Mike Gehman is in Cleveland Clinic and is getting the care he needs. Also, Hannah is having sciatica problems and is having problems walking.

April Shupe: Kathy Smith Miller’s husband had a UTI that prevented surgery. Also, her sister, Judy fell and broke her hip, she will need a hip replacement.

Amy Hostetler: Toby Kirks died suddenly leaving behind an ill mother and young niece.

NEXT WEEK

Guest Minister: Darcy Miller

Worship Leader: Tabatha Murphy

Head Usher: Leadership Team

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Nov. 16th Church Visitation Sunday (No church at FMC)

Nov. 23rd Thanksgiving Sunday

Nov. 30th Advent Begins

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 25

Offering: $1640

Change for a dollar: $18

Meat Canning: $125

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor: Mike Gehman: 1-330-749-674

Email: pastor@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30a.m.-2:30p.m

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler

Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Oct. 26, 2025

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 18:08:26 GMT

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

October 26, 2025

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

~Gathering~

Prelude: “This Is My Father’s World” – arr. Lloyd Larson

“A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” – arr. Lloyd Larson

Welcome& Announcements

Focus Statement:

How do we live to be in the world but not of the world? There is so much in our culture that is innocent and wonderful in and of itself and can draw us towards God. But there are many other aspects of our culture that seduce us and pull us away. How do we manage this tension?

Time of Meditation: “Bist du bei mir” – J.S. Bach,

arr. by John Carter

Call to Worship:

(adapted from Dr. Lisa Hancock, Discipleship Ministries, 2024)

Leader: We gather today as people brought together by grace

and bound together in the family of God.

People: May God draw us together in love.

Leader: We are part of the people called Anabaptists, a

movement planted in the soil of prayer, Scripture

reading, community, bearing witness, baptism of

consenting adults, worship, nonviolence, steadfast

faith, communion, service, and stewardship.

People: May we be nourished and flourish in this soil.

Leader: In our heritage we have example of extreme courage

in following Jesus.

People: We believe that Jesus is the center of our faith;

community is the center of our lives, and

reconciliation is the center of our work.

Leader: We are part of a movement warmed by the Spirit and

watered by Christ.

People: May we sink our roots deep and extend our

branches high as we drink in the food of grace.

Leader: We are part of the people called Anabaptists, yes,

but more than that, we are God’s people, connected

to every Christ follower who was, who is, and who

will be by a network of roots tangled together in

love.

ALL: May we never stop seeking to comprehend the

breadth, length, height, and depth of the love of

Christ that roots us, grounds us, and binds us

together. Amen.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: VT 571 O God, We Read the Holy Law

tune: A Mighty Fortress by Martin Luther, 1529;

words by Michael Schneider, 1554)

(Sue will play the rhythmic version in the hymnal as an introduction

but we will sing the standard version of the tune.)

~Praying & Praising~

Prayers of the People

Hymn of Praise: VT 797 We Are People of God’s Peace

words based on Menno Simons’, 1552;

music by Johann Horn, 1544

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Romans 12:1-2 – Amy Stauffer-McNutt;

2 Corinthians 6:14-17 – Brad Shupe; Psalm 137:1-6– Nancy Yoder

Hymn: HWB 148 By the Waters

– April Shupe and Amy Stauffer-McNutt, song leaders

Message: “Preserving, Borrowing, and our Anabaptist

Heritage” – Dr. Perry J. Bush

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: VT 583 O Christ, Impart Your Teaching

True, - words by Michael Sattler, 1527

(the offering will be brought forth at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Prayer

Sending Hymn: VT 759 Take my Life and Let It Be

Postlude: “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah” – arr. Lee Dengler

Sending Words – Dr. Perry Bush

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Guest Speaker: Dr. Perry Bush

Worship Leader Bruce Stauffer

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Song Leader: April Shupe

Usher: Mike Keim

Biography – Dr. Perry J. Bush

Emeritus Professor of History

Dr. Perry Bush joined the Bluffton faculty in 1994. During his 30 years, Dr. Bush has been the historian’s voice of not only Bluffton’s campus history, but also captured important stories and impact of organizations in the northwest Ohio region, and for the Mennonite church. Perry served Bluffton’s faculty in many administrative roles, served in the community with local non-profits and in 2012, was selected as a Fullbright Scholar. But most importantly, Dr. Bush provided his students with transformative learning experiences through his passionate and lively teaching of history.

The service music and hymns for this service were chosen because of their time period and source, both with the lyrics and with the tune. Hopefully, they also re-state the theme for our worship. Another hymn that elaborates on the theme is VT 585 - Faith Begins by Letting Go.

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Please join us today for a Heritage Sunday Carry-in Dinner in the Fellowship Hall following coffee and cookie time.

Mission Project for October: MCC Meat Canning

Your help is needed to fund MCC meat canning in Kidron: They are grateful for the volunteers who will help can 30,000 pounds of turkey in the Gerber Building behind Central Christian School from October 20-23. However, they are struggling to raise the necessary funds to pay for the canning. While they were able to secure a loan from MCC that enables the canning to move forward without delay, they need to raise $40,000 to repay the cost of the meat and canner operations . Please consider supporting this important project, helping people in need around the world, providing important nutrients through canned meat. Make checks payable to First Mennonite, earmarked for Meat Canning and Bruce will send one check at the end of the month.

100 Year Huddle: Timeline

In preparation for our 100-year anniversary we will be making a timeline of events and people who have been part of our church. Please join us after the church service to help us begin to write down people and events that have been a part of our church. The timeline is located in the S.S. room beside the office.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

April Shupe: Kathy Smith Miller’s husband Mark is battling bladder cancer. Also, Mom’s pain is getting better but she is still struggling with it.

Hannah Gehman: Mike was admitted into Cleveland Clinic.

Mennonite Mission Network: JCS International’s leadership at all levels and, especially for Gerlee (many Mongolian people identify with a single name), in her role as interim executive director. May God’s Spirit guide this leadership transition and pray for more long-term workers to help with the many opportunities to serve in Mongolia.

THIS WEEK

Oct. 31st Happy Birthday, Nancy Yoder

Oct. 31st Happy Birthday, Amy Hostetler

Nov. 1st Happy Birthday, Dan Yoder Jr.

Nov. 2nd Happy Birthday, Ambrosia Snyder

UPCOMING EVENTS

Nov. 16th Church Visitation Sunday (no church at FMC)

Nov. 23rd Thanksgiving Sunday

NEXT WEEK

Note: Next Sunday we will continue our Anabaptist at 500 celebration, meeting in the SS room beside the office.

Worship Leader: April Shupe

Head Usher: Leadership Team

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 16

Offering: $756

Change for a Dollar: $10

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Oct. 19, 2025

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 13:57:41 GMT

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

October 19, 2025

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

~Gathering~

Prelude: “Prelude religioso” -Ludwig van Beethoven

Welcome& Announcements

Focus Statement:

Is faith a gift or a choice? Is it something God does in us or something we do for God? You guessed that the answer is “Yes,” no doubt. Faith is a mixture of all that and more. It is a partnership with God as we enter into a relationship for our good and the good of the world around us, the community around us. We are choosing every day to live by our faith, to be shaped by our faith, and to submit all our actions and relationships to the measure of faith. Today, we examine what it means to be people of faith. We are the people who are choosing faith.

Time of Meditation: “Learning to Lean” -John Stallings

Call to Worship:

Leader: Destruction and violence are everywhere; strife and

contention are all around

People: The needs of the world are so great;

All: O Lord, increase our faith.

Leader: The law is slack, and justice does not prevail.

People: The needs of the world are so great;

All: O Lord, increase our faith.

Leader: How many threats surround us; warfare,

homelessness, loneliness, loss.

People: The needs of the world are so great, but you, O God,

are greater still –the One in whom all things are

possible.

All: O Lord, increase our faith in you!

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: HWB 86 Now Thank We All Our God

~Praying & Praising~

Old Testament Scripture : Lamentations 3:19-26

Prayers of the People

Hymn of Praise: HWB 327 Great Is Thy Faithfulness

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Luke 17:5-10

Homily: “Moving Forward in Faith” -April Shupe

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: HWB 565 My Faith Looks Up To Thee

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: HWB 357 O Master, Let Me Walk With Thee

Sending Prayer:

Leader: Saviour Christ, increase our faith,

People: that we may trust the unseen truths as more important

than bland or trivial physical possessions.

Leader: Loving God, increase our hope,

People: that we may reach out for a better tomorrow and be

undaunted by temporary setbacks.

Leader: Inspiring Spirit, increase our love,

People: that we may put into the world something of the joy

and compassion which you put into our lives.

ALL: For the sake of your new world, and to your praise and

glory. Amen!

Postlude: “At Calvary” -arr. Daniel B. Towner

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Worship Leader Helene Torgler

Song Leader: April Shupe

Guest Pianist: Shirley Homan

Usher: Mike Keim

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for October: MCC Meat Canning

100 Year Huddle: Timeline

In preparation for our 100-year anniversary we will be making a timeline of events and people who have been part of our church. Please join us on Oct. 26 ^th after the church service to share your stories and memories and help us to complete the timeline. Please bring a cover dish from one of the church’s cookbooks.

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Tabatha Murphy: Bill is home from the hospital; he is doing well but still has a drainage tube.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

April Shupe: Bertie is feeling pain in her hip and arm, might be inflamed.

THIS WEEK

Oct. 20 ^th Happy Birthday, Pong Sixiengmay

Oct. 20 ^th Happy Birthday, Hannah Gehman

Oct. 21 ^st Happy Birthday, Jon Gerber

Oct. 21 ^st Happy Birthday, Jaden Murphy

Oct. 23 ^rd Happy Birthday, Ila Miller

Oct. 25 ^th Happy Birthday, Ron Meyer

Oct. 26 ^th Heritage Sunday w/ Guest Speaker Perry Bush from Bluffton College and Carry-In Meal following worship

UPCOMING EVENTS

Nov. 23 ^rd Thanksgiving Sunday

NEXT WEEK

Worship Leader: Bruce Stauffer

Head Usher: Mike Keim

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 19

Offering: $250

Change for a Dollar: $30

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Oct. 12, 2025

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 15:13:04 GMT

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

October 12, 2025

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

~Gathering~

Prelude: “I Need Thee Every Hour” --arr. Kaiser & Colvin,

Sharon Goldsberry, Pianist; John Gearhart, Organist

Welcome& Announcements

Focus Statement:

Jesus taught many things to his disciples and the crowds that were there listening, about God’s kingdom and what it meant to follow him. Many things he taught were difficult to hear but he wanted to clearly explain the cost involved in choosing to follow him and becoming a disciple. Priorities of family may need to be realigned and one must be willing to carry his own cross if they want to be a disciple of Jesus. How can we grow in learning to count the cost, as we live out our calling to follow Christ today?

Time of Meditation : Invitation Medley: Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus / I Have Decided to Follow Jesus / I Surrender All

-sung by Anthem Lights

Call to Worship:

Leader: Loving God, you call us to turn away from our own

selfish interests, to take up our cross, and to follow you.

People: To find our lives, may we live them in service of your

mission.

Leader: As we come before you this morning, give us open

hearts and open hands.

People: Make us eager to hear your voice and seek your

guidance.

Leader: Open our minds to your ever-present spirit that is

always moving within and around us.

All: Open our spirits to your nudging and open our lives to

your love.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: HWB 17 We Gather Together

~Praying & Praising~

Scripture: Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 (NIV)

ALL: You have searched me, Lord, and you know me.
Leader: You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive

my thoughts from afar.
People: You discern my going out and my lying down; you

are familiar with all my ways.
Leader: Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it

completely.
People: You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your

hand upon me.
ALL: Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for

me to attain.

Leader: For you created my inmost being; you knit me

together in my mother’s womb.

People: I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully

made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
Leader: My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in

the secret place, when I was woven together in the

depths of the earth.
People: Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days

ordained for me were written in your book before one

of them came to be.
ALL: How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast

is the sum of them! Were I to count them, they would

outnumber the grains of sand— when I awake, I am

still with you.

Hymn of Praise: HWB 102 To God Be the Glory

Prayers of the People

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Luke 14:25-35

Message : “Hearing and Answering the Call”

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: HWB 544 When We Walk With the Lord

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: HWB 418 Move In Our Midst v1, 2

Benediction

Postlude: “Here I Am, Lord”

-arr. Lloyd Larson, sung by Ben VandeVere

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader Tabby Murphy

Song Leader: April Shupe

Usher: Mike Keim

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for October: MCC Meat Canning

100 Year Huddle: Timeline

In preparation for our 100-year anniversary we will be making a timeline of events and people who have been part of our church. Please join us on Oct. 26th after the church service to share your stories and memories and help us to complete the timeline. Please bring a cover dish from one of the church’s cookbooks.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Tabatha Murphy: Uncle Bill is at Mercy Medical Center for a kidney infection.

Melonie Blauch Archer: Thursday will be 5 years sense dad passed away. He loved this church.

THIS WEEK

Oct. 15th Happy Birthday, Paul McNutt

UPCOMING EVENTS

Oct. 26th Heritage Sunday w/ Guest Speaker Perry Bush from Bluffton College and Carry-In Meal following worship

Nov. 23rd Thanksgiving Sunday

NEXT WEEK

Worship Leader: Helene Torgler

Head Usher: Mike Keim

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 17

Offering: $1178

Change for a Dollar: $19

Meat Canning: $220

Share A Christmas: $20

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Oct. 5, 2025

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 14:05:01 GMT

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

October 5, 2025

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

~Gathering~

Prelude: “Let Us Break Bread Together” -arr. Patti Drennan

Welcome& Announcements

Focus Statement:

This year’s World Communion Sunday highlights three powerful scriptures that remind us of our unity in Christ. From 1 Corinthians 12, we learn that the church is like one body made of many different parts, each important and needed. Psalm 133 celebrates how good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in harmony. And in John 17, Jesus prays that all believers may be one, just as He and God are one. Together, these passages invite us to celebrate our differences while remembering the unity we share at Christ’s table.

Time of Meditation: Jesus, Help Us Live in Peace

-April & Pastor Mike

Call to Worship: (based on Psalm 133, by Rev. Joanna Harader,

from SpaciousFaith.com.)

Leader: Though we may be inclined to brag, let us come together

with humility.

People: How good a thing it is when all of God’s people

live together in unity.

Leader: Though we may be tempted to use harsh words, let

us come together with gentleness.

People: How good a thing it is when all of God’s people

live together in unity.

Leader: Though we may want everything to happen quickly,

let us come together with patience.

People: How good a thing it is when all of God’s people

live together in unity.

Leader: Though the world around often encourages hate, let

us come together in love.

People: How good a thing it is when all of God’s people

live together in unity.

Leader: In humility, gentleness, patience, love, and unity,

ALL: Let us worship the God who has called us together.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: HWB 120 Holy, Holy, Holy

~Praying & Praising~

Scripture: John 17:21-23 (Jesus prays for all believers)

Prayers of the People

Hymn of Praise: HWB 99 We Praise Thee, O God

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:12–27

Message : “Relationship Restored”

~Communion~

Body of Christ—A Hymn - sung by April

-words by Joanna Harader and Jim Krause

(the elements will be passed at this time)

The body of Christ alive in this place,
We are Christ’s hands, his feet and his face.
All genders and races the young to the old,
Each one is a part that we need for the whole.

We drink from the cup, we eat of the bread.
From my hand to yours, each one will be fed.
The rich and the poor this great banquet shall share.
With Christ as our host we will rest in God’s care.

As we eat the meal, join voices in song,
our bodies are fed, our spirits grow strong.
In joy or in sorrow, united we’ll be:
One body, one Spirit, one great mystery.

Invitation to the Table Litany:

- by Rev. Joanna Harader, from SpaciousFaith.com

Pastor: We gather around the Table in places far and near,

Right: eating sourdough, rye, tortillas,

Left: crackers, wafers, and Wonder bread–

All: The body of Christ.

Pastor: Drinking the wine or the juice

Right: from handmade chalices and silver goblets,

Left: golden spoons and little mini cups–

All: The blood of Christ.

Pastor: The bread and the cup unite us with all who would follow

Jesus.

Right: This meal reaches back through the centuries.

Left: This table reaches around the world.

All: Let us eat and drink with joy.

Partaking of the Bread and Cup

Prayer of Thanksgiving

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: We Are One In the Spirit

(offering brought forward)

We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord;

And we pray that all unity may one day be restored.

Chorus: And they’ll know we are Christians

by our love, by our love,

Yes, they’ll know we are Christians

by our love, by our love.

We will walk with each other, we will walk hand in hand;

And together we’ll spread the news that God is in our land.

Chorus

We will work with each other, we will work side by side;

And we’ll guard each one’s dignity and save each one’s pride.

Chorus

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: VT 812 Sent Forth By God’s Blessing

Benediction

Postlude: “We Will Remember You”

–words by Louis F. Benson and Lloyd Larson, arr. Lloyd Larson

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader Kristy Keim

Song Leader: April Shupe

Usher: Mike Keim

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for October: MCC Meat Canning

Thank you for taking part in this year’s MCC School Kit Challenge! Thanks to the work of people like you throughout the U.S. and Canada, we went well above our goal of 25,000 school kits for the 2025 challenge. Working together, you, your community and other devoted supporters packed 29,639 school kits ! Each of the 29,639 school kits you shared will be a gift and treasure for a student dreaming of a bright future – and for the loved ones, teachers and community members dreaming alongside them. Thank you for being part of this year’s School Kit Challenge. We hope you’ll join us again next year!

100 Year Huddle: Timeline

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Dan Hostetler: Randy did hear from Cleveland Clinic and will get a kidney when one becomes available.

Sue Stauffer: Jim and Deb Cahill went to Italy to do a weeklong walk.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Bertie Showers: Please pray for April who stayed home to cook for 20 people who are coming to lunch.

Amy Stauffer-McNutt: Kay Bontrager-Singer’s son and his wife, Hans and Lily Bontrager-Singer will be serving a five year term with MCC in Mexico City.

Sue Stauffer: Please pray for the immigrants who fear ICE raids.

THIS WEEK

Oct. 11 ^th Happy Birthday, Grace Yoder

UPCOMING EVENTS

Oct. 26 ^th Heritage Sunday w/ Guest Speaker Perry Bush from Bluffton College

Nov. 23 ^rd Thanksgiving Sunday

NEXT WEEK

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Tabby Murphy

Head Usher: Mike Keim

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 21

Offering: $675

Meat Canning: $1000

Share A Christmas: $70

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Sept. 28, 2025

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 13:59:40 GMT

Rise Up, Take Courage

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

September28, 2025

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

~Gathering~

Prelude: “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” – arr. Lloyd Larson

Welcome& Announcements

Litany for Dedication of MCC School Kits:

Leader: Almighty and gracious God,

People: You have so richly blessed us and we are grateful that

we can share of our bounty amid all the world’s poverty

and pain.

Tabby Murphy: We pray for the courage to give generously of

our resources, our time and abilities, our

material wealth.

Mike Keim: We pray for the strength to reject the

rationalizations which lead to indifference and

silence in this climate of entitlement and

insatiable desire.

Nancy Yoder: We pray for confident hope, in the presence of

such overwhelming needs, to know that each

offering of money and kits makes a welcome

difference to others, and to you. We pray with

fervent hearts and hopes for those who receive

these school kits.

Bruce Stauffer: We pray you would bless those who labor on

our behalf through all the work of Mennonite

Central Committee and its partners throughout

the world, that we would uphold them with

our prayers, our encouragement, our gifts, our

willingness to learn and to invite the suppor

of others.

ALL: Lord, bless these school kits, the hands of those

who distribute them, and the school children who

receive them. We are grateful for the opportunity

to be able to help further Your kingdom “in the

name of Christ.”

Leader: AMEN.

Focus Statement:

Our new CDC theme is “Rise up! Take courage!” God’s word of

liberation and salvation for the Hebrew children begins with an

invitation to Moses to “rise up and go.” The Psalmist proclaims,

“Let your heart take courage.” How is God’s invitation to

liberation, salvation, and courage heard today?

Time of Meditation: “Go Down, Moses (with “Wade in the

Water”) – arr. Larry Shackley

Call to Worship:

All: Come, Holy Spirit,

Leader: Enter our silences,

All: Come, Holy Spirit,

Leader: into the depths of our longing.

All: Come, Holy Spirit,

Leader: unmask our pretending. enter our trusting, enter our

fearing, enter our letting go, enter our holding back.

All: Come, Holy Spirit,

Leader: embrace and free us.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: VT 716 God of Grace and God of Glory

~Praying & Praising~

Prayers of the People

Hymn of Praise: VT 437 The Lord Is My Light

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Exodus 3:1-12, Exodus 9:13, Psalm 27:7-14

Message: “Rise up! Take courage! Your Deliverance Is Near.”

– Doug Luginbill, Central District Conf. Minister

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: VT 797 We Are People of God’s Peace

(the offering will be brought forward at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Blessing Service~

Blessing for The Journey: Doug Luginbill with

Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Hymn: VT 581 Lord Jesus, You Shall Be My Song

~Sending~

Sending Prayer

Sending Hymn: VT 832 The Lord Lift You Up

Postlude: “This Little Light of Mine” – arr. Mark Hayes

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Guest Minister: Doug Luginbill

Worship Leader Mike Gehman

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Usher: Monk Yoder

Doug Luginbill and his wife, Paula, live in Bluffton, OH, and have two adult children who live with their spouses in beautiful, far-off places: Colorado and Montana. Doug grew up on a farm near Pandora, OH, where he attended Grace Mennonite Church, and is a graduate of Bluffton University and Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary. Previous places of ministry include Camp Friedenswald, three Mennonite congregations, and Mennonite Home Communities of Ohio. Doug has served as Central District conference minister since 2016.

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for September: Share-A-Christmas

Every year, many Tuscarawas County families turn to this program for assistance during the holiday season. Please make your check out to First Mennonite, and Bruce will then send one contribution at the end of the month. Thank you for helping bring joy, love and peace to our neighbors in need this Christmas season!

Mission Project for October: MCC Meat Canning

Your help is needed to fund MCC meat canning in Kidron: We are grateful for the volunteers who will help can 30,000 pounds of turkey in the Gerber Building behind Central Christian School from October 20-23. However, we are struggling to raise the necessary funds to pay for the canning. While we were able to secure a loan from MCC that enables the canning to move forward without delay, we need to raise $40,000 to repay the cost of the meat and canner operations . Please consider supporting this important project, helping people in need around the world, providing important nutrients through canned meat. Make checks payable to First Mennonite, earmarked for Meat Canning and Bruce will send one check at the end of the month.

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Hanna Gehman: Mike’s treatments are working and is getting better. Also, 10-year-old Ava, who had brain swelling from a bug bite came home on Wednesday.

Sue Stauffer: Was at our son in laws concert last night, thankful for different kind of music and people enjoying it.

Mark: Pure gift of God had an event to support their mission of adoption.

Keo Sixiengmay: I am in good health.

THIS WEEK

Oct. 5 ^th Happy Birthday, Margaret Cheslock

Oct. 5 ^th Happy Birthday, Tanh Sixiengmay

Oct. 5 ^th World Communion Sunday

UPCOMING EVENTS

Oct. 26 ^th Heritage Sunday

Nov. 23 ^rd Thanksgiving Sunday

NEXT WEEK

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Kristy Keim

Head Usher: Monk Yoder

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 18

Offering: $1271

Change for a dollar: $6

Share A Christmas: $30

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Sept. 21, 2025

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 19:23:29 GMT

Anabaptism At Five Hundred

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

September 21, 2025

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30 – 12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

*********************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Anabaptism at 500

Belief Eight : Centrality of Jesus

Part II—How do you live out your faith?

~Gathering in the Royal Bible Classroom~

(around tables)

Welcome and Announcements

Focus Statement:

A disciple is someone who learns from a teacher. Anabaptists

learn from Jesus and commit to live in ways shaped by the life of Jesus.

They look to Scripture to see how Jesus acted and related to others.

Anabaptists seek to keep Jesus as the center of their lives. Palmer

Becker’s first principle of Anabaptist faith (out of three) is “Jesus is the

center of our faith.” In today’s service we are presenting faith stories from the new book, Faith in Full Color: a Tapestry of Anabaptist Stories by Jeanne Zimmerly Janti from Wayne County. This book is part of the Anabaptism @500 series published in 2025 by Herald Press and focuses on lives lived with Jesus as the focus. We will note how our lives can be lived faithfully but in different ways.

Scripture: I Corinthians 3:11

“For no one can lay any foundation other than the one that has

been laid; that foundation is Jesus Christ.”

Time of Meditation : VT 583 O Christ, Impart Your Teaching True

Call to Worship:

Leader: In Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith.

For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed

yourselves with Christ.

People: There is no longer Jew or Greek, no longer slave or free, no

longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: VT 666 In Thee Is Gladness

~Scripture and Stories~

Introduction - Suzanne Stauffer

Scriptures : Matthew 5:38-39 – Bruce Stauffer

Matthew 5:44, 46 – Suzanne Stauffer

1. Nigeria – Making Peace in the Face of Violence

(nonviolence in presence of war) – Reno Stevanus

Scriptures : Psalm 147:3 – Bruce Stauffer

Isaiah 4:29 – Suzanne Stauffer

Jeremiah 17:14 – Bruce Stauffer

2. Holmes County – Helping Amish Families at New Leaf Center

(medical help to those on margins) – Nancy Yoder

Scripture : Hebrews 13:2 – Suzanne Stauffer

3. Columbus Mennonite – Finding Sanctuary in a Church

(sanctuary to immigrant) – April Shupe

Hymn of Petition: VT 584 Jesus, Be the Center (vs. 1 and refrain)

Scripture : Acts 2:42-47 – Bruce Stauffer

4. Winnipeg - Living Intentionally at Emmaus House

(faith community living together) – Tabby Murphy

Scripture : I Corinthians 4:1-2 - Suzanne Stauffer

I Peter 4:10 – Bruce Stauffer

5. Washington DC – Making Peace Through Energy Stewardship

(energy efficiency as stewardship) – Mike Keim

Scripture: Luke 14:13-14 – Suzanne Stauffer

Galatians 2:10 – Bruce Stauffer

Hymn of Petition: VT 584 Jesus, Be the Center (vs. 2 and refrain)

Scripture: Luke 4:18 – Suzanne Stauffer

Romans 12:13 – Bruce Stauffer

6. Philadelphia – Offering Mutual Aid Through Debt Repayment

(debt repayment) – Helene Torgler

7. Kitchener- Offering Assistance to All in Need

(providing goods and services to all) – Hannah Gehman

Hymn of Petition: VT 584 Jesus, Be the Center (vs. 3 and refrain)

Quote: Pope John Paul II – Suzanne Stauffer

“The earth will not continue to offer its harvest, except with faithful

stewardship. We cannot say we love the land and then take steps to

destroy it for use by future generations.”

8. Fresno OH – Cultivating Stewardship Across Generations

(life of stewardship) – Bertie Showers

Scripture : John 13:35 – Suzanne Stauffer

Luke 6:27, 31, 35 – Bruce Stauffer

9. Myanmar – Countering Culture with Tithing and

Peacemaking (nonviolence in time of instability) – Bob Gerber

Hymn of Petition: VT 584 Jesus, Be the Center (vs. 4, refrain, and coda)

Prayer of Response:

Leader: Lord, in you and through you and by you, we have our being.

We give thanks for the ways in which you strengthen, encourage

and pour life into us. We have been saved by your grace, and it

is through this grace that we have life. We are alive in You and

we are together in You. Together, we walk in ministry to all the

world seeking to act justly, love mercy, and live humbly with our

God.

People: Lord, make us instruments of your peace. Where there is hatred,

let us sow love. Where there is injury, pardon. Where there is

doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope. Where there is

darkness, light. And where there is sadness, joy. O divine

master, grant that we may not so much seek to be consoled as to

console; to be understood as to understand. To be loved as to

love. For it is giving that we receive; it is in pardoning that we

are pardoned. And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

Leader: Together, we continue to discern The Way Forward with the

intent to keep Jesus as the focus and center of our lives. Amen.

~Praising, Praying and Responding~

Hymn of Response: VT 287 Jesus Christ Is Waiting

Prayers of the People (including offertory prayer)

Hymn of Praise:

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: VT 566 We Will Follow

Benediction Prayer:

Jesus, be the center, be my source, be my light, Jesus

Jesus, be the center, be my hope, be my song, Jesus

Be the fire in my heart, be the wind in these sails

Be the reason that I live, Jesus, Jesus,

Jesus, be my vision, be my path, be my guide. Jesus.

Go and walk with Jesus in your heart.

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Bruce Stauffer

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Head Usher: Monk Yoder

Our On-Going Series on Anabaptist Beliefs:

In 2018 Lisa Weaver and Elizabeth Miller, as part of the Bearing Witness Stories project, wrote a book for children entitled Let the

Children Come to Me: Nurturing Anabaptist Faith within Families.

“The materials gathered together in this book beautifully

illustrate the central convictions of the Anabaptist tradition.”

-John D. Roth, Director of the Institute for the

Study of Global Anabaptism

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for September: Share-A-Christmas

Mission Project for October: MCC Meat Canning

Your help is needed to fund MCC meat canning in Kidron: We are grateful for the volunteers who will help can 30,000 pounds of turkey in the Gerber Building behind Central Christian School from October 20-23. However, we are struggling to raise the necessary funds to pay for the canning. While we were able to secure a loan from MCC that enables the canning to move forward without delay, we need to raise $40,000 to repay the cost of the meat and canner operations . Please consider supporting this important project, helping people in need around the world, providing important nutrients through canned meat.

Next Sunday, September 28th, Doug Luginbil, our Conference minister , will be here to share the message and do a special blessing for Amy Stauffer-McNutt, who is beginning the Journey Program—a missional leadership developmental program through AMBS.

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Hanna Gehman: Praise for the safe arrival of Claire Marie Miller. Brianna and the baby are doing well. Thank you for all your prayers.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Bruce Stauffer : Sister-in-law Brenda Stauffer has passed.

Hanna Gehman: Mike is having some health issues and is asking for prayers. Also, prayers for my friend’s granddaughter, Ava, is in the ICU at Akron Children’s hospital.

Bertie Showers: Sonny King passed, prayer for friends and family.

THIS WEEK

Sept. 26th-27th Swiss Festival

NEXT WEEK

Guest Minister: Doug Luginbill

Worship Leader: Mike Gehman

Head Usher: Monk Yoder

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Oct. 5th World Communion Sunday

Oct. 26th Heritage Sunday

Nov. 23rd Thanksgiving Sunday

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 18

Offering: $1395

Change for a dollar: $5

Share A Christmas: $25

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor: Mike Gehman: 1-330-749-674

Email: pastor@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30a.m.-2:30p.m

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler

Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Sept. 14, 2025

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 15:17:40 GMT

Anabaptism At Five Hundred

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

September 14, 2025

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30 – 12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

*********************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Anabaptism at 500

Belief Eight : Steadfast Centrality of Jesus, Part I

~Gathering in the Royal Bible Classroom~

(around tables)

Welcome and Announcements

Focus Statement:

A disciple is someone who learns from a teacher. Anabaptists

learn from Jesus and commit to live in ways shaped by the life of Jesus.

They look to Scripture to see how Jesus acted and related to others.

Anabaptists seek to keep Jesus as the center of their lives. Palmer

Becker’s first principle of Anabaptist faith (out of three) is “Jesus is the

center of our faith.”

Scripture: I Corinthians 3:11

“For no one can lay any foundation other than the one that has

been laid; that foundation is Jesus Christ.”

Time of Meditation : VT 718 Gentle Shepherd, Come and Lead Us

Call to Worship:

Leader: Christ be in our senses, marked with sacred sign. In the

Incarnation flesh became divine.

People: Christ be in our hearing, tune us to rejoice; in each shout or

whisper, hear God’s calling voice.

Leader: Christ be in our vision, guard us day and night; Keep our feet

from stumbling, shine God’s holy light.

People: Christ be in our speaking, train our ev’ry word. In our daily

witness let God’s truth be heard.

Leader: Christ be in our breathing, constantly impart grace to ev’ry

movement, peace within our hearts.

People: Christ be in our senses, marked with sacred sign. In the

Spirit’s presence, flesh becomes divine.

Leader: Let us worship God, who is worthy of our praise.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: VT 573 Strong, Peaceful Man of Galilee, v1, 5

~Storytelling~

Early Anabaptist Story: Anna Jansz --Mike Gehman

~Praising and Praying~

Hymn of Praise: VT 131 Praise, I Will Praise You Lord

Prayers of the People

Hymn of Praise: VT 130 Beautiful Savior (vs. 1,2 in English)

~Storytelling~

Global Story: Naomi Tamura –Bob Gerber

Early Anabaptist Story in Drama #1 :

“On Hasty Judgments: Pilgram Marpeck, 1542”

Swiss Brother – Tyler Murphy Pilgram Marpeck – Reno Stevanus

Hymn of Response : VT 576 Who Now Would Follow Christ

(Bruce Stauffer reads the words to the entire hymn

through first, then we will sing vs. 1)

Who now would follow Christ in life

must scorn the world’s insult and strife

and bear the cross each day.

For this alone leads to the throne;

Christ is the only way.

Christ’s servants follow him to death

and give the body, life, and breath

on cross and rack and pyre.

As gold is tried and purified,

they stand the test of fire.

Renouncing all, they choose the cross,

and claiming it, count all as loss,

e’en husband, child, and wife.

Forsaking gain, forgetting pain,

they enter into life.

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scriptures:

Reader 1: John 3:16-17 --Nancy Yoder

Reader 2: John 8:42 --Bruce Stauffer

Reader 3: John 14:6 --Mike Keim

Reader 4: I Timothy 2:5 --Hannah Gehman

The Story of Linda Shelly –Suzanne Stauffer

Litany of Response: Teach us to find you, the Creator

(see next page)

Leader: Centering God, who through Christ, holds all things together,

we confess we often feel we are spinning out of control, pulled

into somebody else’s plans, pressed into work we didn’t expect,

propelled into countless places of need. Jesus, walk with us in

the flurry of our lives. Teach us how to find you, the Center.

ALL: Teach us how to find you, the Center.

Leader: Creating God, who through Christ, brings unlikely things

together, we confess we often feel bombarded, with way too

much information, bewildered by the amount of good things to

care for, intimidated by the pace of new technology, unnerved

by how to choose among all the choices. Jesus, walk with us in

the choices of our lives. Teach us how to find you, the Center.

ALL: Teach us how to find you, the Center.

Leader: Surprising God, who calls all things together through Christ,

we believe you are constantly summoning us to pay attention,

calling us to set aside our agenda and listen, beckoning us to

set aside our priorities and pray, urging us to set aside our

itinerary and follow. Jesus, walk with us as we learn to live

faithfully in the world. Teach us how to find you, the Center.

ALL: Teach us how to find you, the Center. Amen.

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: VT 287 Jesus Christ Is Waiting

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: VT 138 Christ, We Do All Adore Thee

Benediction: Micah 6:8

The Lord told you what is good and what God seeks from you:

do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Dan Hostetler

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Head Usher: Monk Yoder

Our On-Going Series on Anabaptist Beliefs:

In 2018 Lisa Weaver and Elizabeth Miller, as part of the Bearing Witness Stories project, wrote a book for children entitled Let the

Children Come to Me: Nurturing Anabaptist Faith within Families.

“The materials gathered together in this book beautifully

illustrate the central convictions of the Anabaptist tradition.”

-John D. Roth, Director of the Institute for the

Study of Global Anabaptism

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for September: Share-A-Christmas

Your help is needed to fund MCC meat canning in Kidron: We are grateful for the volunteers who will help can 30,000 pounds of turkey in the Gerber Building behind Central Christian School from October 20-23. However, we are struggling to raise the necessary funds to pay for the canning. While we were able to secure a loan from MCC that enables the canning to move forward without delay, we need to raise $40,000 to repay the cost of the meat and canner operations. Please consider supporting this important project helping people in need around the world, providing important nutrients through canned meat.

Checks payable to: Relief Canning, Inc, Kidron EIN #34-1325825

Mail to: Ben Froese, Treasurer

PO Box 157, Kidron, OH 44636 -or-

2828 Church Rd., Orrville, OH 44667

Note: We will be meeting in the Royal Bible Sunday School classroom again next Sunday as we continue Part 2 of the “Centrality of Jesus.”

Sunday September 28 ^th , Doug Luginbil, our Conference minister , will be here to share the message and do a special blessing for Amy Stauffer-McNutt, who is beginning the Journey Program—a missional leadership developmental program through AMBS.

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Sue Stauffer: On Thursday I saw a bald Eagle flying and landed in a field. Also we have chrysalis for monarch butterflies.

Bertie Showers: Past 4 days we have had company, Debbie from North Carolina. Prayers for safe travels home.

April Shupe: There is a super lunar eclipse tonight. Also, Mike sent me a picture of the new grandchild, Clair Marie.

Lizzie Keim: I am a great grandma to a little girl, born last night.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Sue Stauffer: Bruce’s relatives Bill and Brenda need prayers, hospice has been called in for Brenda.

April Shupe: Mike Gahman has the flu bug and needs prayers.

Dan Hostetler: Randy Morrison is on dialysis and is waiting for a kidney transplant.

THIS WEEK

Sept. 16 ^th Happy Birthday, Greta Stauffer-McNutt

Sept. 19 ^th -21 ^st Women’s Retreat @ Camp Friedenswald

NEXT WEEK

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Bruce Stauffer

Head Usher: Monk Yoder

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Sept. 26 ^th -27 ^th Swiss Festival

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 19

Offering: $1223

Change for a dollar: $25

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor: Mike Gehman: 1-330-749-674

Email: pastor@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30a.m.-2:30p.m

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler

Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Sept. 7, 2025

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 19:41:13 GMT

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

September 7, 2025

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

~Gathering~

Prelude: "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God"

- arr. Lloyd Larson

"A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing."

Welcome& Announcements

Focus Statement:

Jesus taught many things to his disciples and the crowds that were

there listening about God’s kingdom and what it meant to follow him. Many things he taught were difficult to hear but he wanted to clearly explain the cost involved in choosing to follow him and becoming a disciple. Priorities of family may need to be realigned and one must be willing to carry his own cross if they want to be a disciple of Jesus. How can we grow in learning to count the cost, as we live out our calling to follow Christ today?

Time of Meditation: "Day by Day and with Each Passing

Moment" - arr. Lloyd Larson

"Day by day and with each passing moment strength

I find to meet my trials here;..."

Call to Worship:

Leader: Loving God, you call us to turn away from our own

selfish interests, to take up our cross, and to follow

you.

People: To find our lives, may we live them in service of

your mission.

Leader: As we come before you this morning, give us open

hearts and open hands.

People: Make us eager to hear your voice and seek your

guidance.

Leader: Open our minds to your ever-present spirit that is

always moving within and around us.

People: Open our spirits to your nudging and open our

lives to your love.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: HWB 349 Spirit of the Living God

~Praying & Praising~

Old Testament Scripture: Jeremiah 18:1-11

Prayers of the People

Hymn of Praise: HWB 59 Sing praise to God who reigns

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Luke 14:25-35

Message: “Hearing and Answering the Call”

~Responding~

Instrumental: “Count Well the Cost”

(follow along with the words in VT 577)

Prayer: (together)

Living God,

by the power of your Spirit,

help us to hear your holy word,

that we may truly understand;

that, understanding, we may believe;

and believing, we may follow

in faithfulness and obedience,

seeking your honor and glory in all we

do, through Jesus Christ, Amen

Hymn of Response: HWB Take My Life v1, 3, 4, 6

(the offering will be brought forward at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: HWB 504 Have Thine Own Way

Benediction

Postlude: "Be Not Afraid" - Robert J. Dufford,

arr. by Douglas Wagner

Refrain: ":Be not afraid. I go before you always.

Come follow me and I will give you rest."

Sending Words:

Leader: We go now with faith, trusting God’s Spirit to guide us;

People: We go now with hope, waiting for the fullness of

Christ’s reign.

Leader: We go now with love, resting in God’s care and the care

of God’s People

ALL: We go out with joy: to listen and speak, to sing and

suffer, to proclaim good news, and give glory to God.

Leader: The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God,

and the Communion of the Holy Spirit be with you

all.

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader Helene Torgler

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Usher: Monk Yoder

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for September: Share-A-Christmas

Note: We will be meeting in the Royal Bible Sunday School classroom the next two Sundays.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Tabatha Murphy: Cousin Larry Flinner’s mom Eunice “dody” Young has passed away, prayers for friends and family.

Mike Gehman: Brianna will be having a C-section this week, prayers for a speedy delivery and recovery.

THIS WEEK

Sept. 8 ^th Happy Birthday, Michael Yoder

UPCOMING EVENTS

Sept. 19 ^th -21 ^st Women’s Retreat @ Camp Friedenswald

Sept. 26 ^th -27 ^th Swiss Festival

NEXT WEEK

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Dan Hostetler

Head Usher: Monk Yoder

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 20

Offering: $940

Change for a dollar: $8

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Aug. 31, 2025

Sat, 30 Aug 2025 13:01:28 GMT

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

August 31, 2025

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

~Gathering~

Prelude: A Mighty Fortress Is Our God

-written by Martin Luther, arr. Camp Kirkland

Welcome& Announcements

Focus Statement:

As followers of Christ, we are called to love God with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. Part of this call involves showing hospitality to those in need and remembering those who are in prison, as if we ourselves were in prison. We are also called to contentment with what we have, because God will never leave or forsake us. Our world is filled with changes, but we are called to grow in faith and love to Jesus, who never changes.

Time of Meditation: O Jesus, I Have Promised -arr. Lloyd Larsen

(follow along with words printed in bulletin)

Call to Worship:

Leader: Creator God, you call us to hospitality; to give as

generously to others as you have given to us.

People: For there are angels among us.

Leader: Loving God, you call us to give you glory in the

compassion we show to one another.

People: To love without judgment, of ourselves or of others.

Leader: We gather as one Body, seeking to walk in the way

you have set for us.

All: We gather as one Body, to worship the one who is

Love.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: HWB 41 Come, Thou Almighty King

~Praying & Praising~

Psalm 112:1-7 (NIV)

All: Praise the Lord.

Leader: Blessed are those who fear the Lord,
People: who find great delight in his commands.

Leader: Their children will be mighty in the land;
People: the generation of the upright will be blessed.

Leader: Wealth and riches are in their houses,
People: and their righteousness endures forever .

Leader: Even in darkness light dawns for the upright,
People: for those who are gracious and compassionate and righteous.

Leader: Good will come to those who are generous and lend freely,
People: who conduct their affairs with justice.

Leader: Surely the righteous will never be shaken;
People: they will be remembered forever.

Leader: They will have no fear of bad news;
People: their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.

Hymn of Praise: HWB 71 Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee

Prayers of the People

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16

Message: “Secure in Jesus Christ”

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: HWB 343 My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less

(the offering will be brought forward at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: HWB 528 I Stand Amazed

Benediction

Postlude: “Here I Am, Lord” -arr. Lloyd Larsen

[follow along in HWB 395]

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship / Song Leader: April Shupe

Usher: Herb Torgler

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for September: Share-A-Christmas

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Brad Shupe: Reno is going to the ER after falling on the front steps that caused a gash on his head that needed stitches.

Melanie Blauch Archer: Holmes County family that the father and 4-year-old son drowned at Atwood Lake.

Darcy Miller: Pat Edgar fell at home and broke her leg; while at the hospital they found an infection in the abdomen that caused the fall. Also, pray for the Tusky Valley student that was taken to the hospital from a football game; he injured his spine and is paralyzed.

Sue Stauffer: Janis Stoffer fell a couple of times and is fighting cancer, she is being moved to Toledo to be closer to family.

Bruce Stauffer: Carol Boltz has passed away, prayers for friends and family.

THIS WEEK

Sept. 1 ^st Happy Birthday, Jean Stevanus

Sept. 1 ^st Happy Birthday, John Yoder

Sept. 2 ^nd Happy Anniversary, Amy & Paul Stauffer-McNutt

Sept. 3 ^rd Happy Birthday, Keutmy Phoutarath

Sept. 4 ^th Happy Birthday, Dan Hostetler

UPCOMING EVENTS

Sept. 19 ^th -21 ^st Women’s Retreat @ Camp Friedenswald

Sept. 26 ^th -27 ^th Swiss Festival

NEXT WEEK

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Helene Torgler

Head Usher: Monk Yoder

LAST WEEK

Attence: 17

Offering: $696

Change for a dollar: $19

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

O Jesus, I Have Promised

O Jesus, I have promised to serve Thee to the end;
be Thou forever near me, my Master and my Friend;
I shall not fear the battle if Thou art by my side,
nor wander from the pathway if Thou wilt be my Guide.

O let me feel Thee near me, the world is ever near;
I see the sights that dazzle, the tempting sounds I hear;
my foes are ever near me, around me and within;
but, Jesus, draw Thou nearer, and shield my soul from sin.

I need thee every hour, stay thou close by.

Temptations lose their pow’r when thou art nigh.

I need thee, oh I need thee, ev’ry hour I need thee.

O bless me now, my Savior, I come to thee.

O Jesus, Thou hast promised to all who follow Thee
that where Thou art in glory there shall Thy servant be;
and, Jesus, I have promised to serve Thee to the end;
O give me grace to follow, my Master and my Friend!

Aug. 24, 2025

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 14:04:28 GMT

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

August 24, 2025

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

~Gathering~

Preludes:

"My Lord, What a Morning" - arr. Larry Shackley

"If with All Your Hearts" - Mendelsohn, arr. Lani Smith

Welcome& Announcements

Focus Statement:

We are called to pray for “open doors,” (opportunities), but do we recognize them when they are presented to us? What if they occur when we are tired, or suffering or having a bad day? Let’s do some prepping so when opportunities arise, our watchful prayers help us know how to be ambassadors for Christ in every circumstance!

Time of Meditation: "Be Thou My Vision" - arr. Cindy Berry

Call to Worship: (based on Psalm 29)

Leader: Ascribe to the Lord, O heavenly beings, ascribe to the

Lord glory and strength.

People: Ascribe to the Lord the glory of his name; worship the

Lord in holy splendor.

Leader: The voice of the Lord flashes forth flames of fire.

People: The voice of the Lord shakes the wilderness;

Leader: The voice of the Lord causes the oaks to whirl,

People: and strips the forest bare;

All: and in his temple all say, ‘Glory!’

Leader: May the Lord give strength to his people!

People: May the Lord bless his people with peace!

All: Amen!

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: HWB 124 O Worship the Lord

~Praying & Praising~

Prayers of the People

Hymn of Praise: HWB 517 Open My Eyes That I May See

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Colossians 4:2-6

Storytime: “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good,

Very Bad Day” by Judith Viorst, illustrated by

Ray Cruz

Message: “This Is Opportunity?”

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: HWB 499 Lord, Speak To Me

(the offering will be brought forward at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: HWB 226 You Are Salt for the Earth

Benediction

Postlude: "Praise to the Lord” - arr. Joel Raney

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Guest Minister: Darcy Miller

Worship Leader: Brad Shupe

Pianist: Sue Stauffer

Usher: Herb Torgler

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for August: The MCC School Kit Challenge

With the first stroke of a new pencil on a crisp notebook page, a child has the potential to write an amazing story of resilience. This year, MCC has come up with a fun challenge and a goal of sending 25,000 kits to some of our youngest global neighbors. So whether it’s one or one hundred, let’s share God’s love and help kids learn and grow around the world. Pick up a list on the table by the cookies, and lay school items on the same table by the end of August. Bags, erasers and pencil sharpeners will be provided.

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Sue Stauffer: Keo is thankful for all of the prayers and is starting to feel better.

Mike Gehman: Thank you for the prayers for Brianna, she is home after being in the hospital.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Brad Shupe: Dad had surgery on his eyes, his retina was detaching in his eyes. Prayers for a speedy recovery.

THIS WEEK

Aug. 24 ^th Music Fest & Ice Cream Social @ Union Hill Church, 6pm

Aug. 26 ^th Happy Birthday, Vi Miller

Aug. 30 ^th Happy Anniversary, Rick & Bambi Maurer

Aug. 31 ^st Happy Anniversary, Bob & Karen Barnes

UPCOMING EVENTS

Sept. 19 ^th -21 ^st Women’s Retreat @ Camp Friedenswald

Sept. 26 ^th -27 ^th Swiss Festival

NEXT WEEK

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: April Shupe

Head Usher: Herb Torgler

LAST WEEK

08/10/25 Attendance: 14

Offering: $940

Change for a dollar: $8

08/17/25 Attendance: 20

Offering: $510

Change for a dollar: $8.41

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Aug. 17, 2025

Sat, 16 Aug 2025 14:36:42 GMT

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

August 17, 2025

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

~Gathering~

Prelude: "He, Watching Over Israel"

- Mendelsohn, arr. Jan Sanborn

Welcome& Announcements

Focus Statement:

Jesus told his disciples not to be anxious about things like having enough food and clothing and worrying about how long we will live. He told them of God’s care for the birds, and the work of His loving hand seen in beautiful flowers he creates. Jesus reminded them that the Father knew their needs and would provide for them, and that their hearts should be set on seeking God’s kingdom first. How can we grow in learning to seek God’s Kingdom first, as we live out our calling to follow Christ today?

Time of Meditation : "God So Loved the World"

- Stainer, arr. Jan Sanborn

Call to Worship:

Leader: Let us worship the eternal God, the Source of love and

life, who creates us.

People: Let us worship Jesus Christ, the risen one, who lives

among us.

Leader: Let us worship the Spirit, the Holy Fire, who renews

us.

ALL: To the one true God pe praise in all times and places,

through the grace of Jesus Christ.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: HWB 17 We Gather Together

~Praying & Praising~

Psalm 138:1-8

Hymn of Praise: HWB 66 O Worship the King

Prayers of the People

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Luke 12:22-32

Message: “What If?”

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: HWB 324 Seek Ye First

(the offering will be brought forward at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: HWB 426 Abide, O Dearest Jesus

Benediction

Postlude: "Jesus Loves Me" - arr. Joel Raney

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Tabby Murphy

Pianist: Sue Stauffer

Usher: Herb Torgler

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Mike Gehman: Brianna, who is 32 weeks pregnant had to go to the hospital with some bleeding.

Reno Stevenus: John Debrule passed away this week, prayers for family and friends.

April Shupe: Mitch Showers had a bad fall that caused a gash on his head which built up with blood and will need surgery.

Sue Stauffer: Keo had appendicitis and is dealing with other health issues. Also, Bruce is having serious depressive episode.

Bertie Showers: Had a celebration of life for brother Ken Mast at Martins creek church, 75 people attended.

THIS WEEK

Aug. 20 ^th Happy Birthday, Reno Stevanus

Aug. 21 ^st Happy Birthday, Bambi Maurer

Aug. 22 ^nd Happy Anniversary, Brad & April Shupe

UPCOMING EVENTS

Aug. 31 ^st Music Fest @ Union Hill Church

Sept. 19 ^th -21 ^st Women’s Retreat @ Camp Friedenswald

Sept. 26 ^th -27 ^th Swiss Festival

NEXT WEEK

Guest Minister: Darcy Miller

Worship Leader: Brad Shupe

Head Usher: Herb Torgler

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 14

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Aug. 10, 2025

Sat, 09 Aug 2025 14:53:55 GMT

Anabaptism At Five Hundred

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

August 10, 2025

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30 – 12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

*********************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Anabaptism at 500

Belief Seven : Steadfast Faith

“Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid,

which is Jesus Christ.”

~Gathering in the Royal Bible Classroom~

(around tables)

Welcome and Announcements

Focus Statement:

A steadfast faith endures through both joyful and difficult times.

Anabaptists practice their faith within a community, celebrating joys

together and offering courage and strength to each other in times of

difficulty. Anabaptists in the sixteenth century often faced severe

persecution—including arrest, imprisonment, torture, and death;

many Anabaptist communities around the world today face similar

hardships.

Scripture: Matthew 28:20b

“And remember, I am with your always, to the end of the age.”

Time of Meditation : VT 421 A Mighty Fortress Is Our God v.1,2

Call to Worship: (from I Corinthians 15: 58)

Leader: Sisters and brothers, be steadfast, immovable, because you

know that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.”

People: We wait for God and the strength and courage God offers.

Leader: Let us worship God, who is worthy of our praise.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: VT 80 We Sing to You, O God

~Storytelling~

Early Anabaptist Story: Hadewijk

Early Anabaptist Story in Drama #1:

“An Anabaptist Preacher on the Road: Hans Nadler, 1529”

Narrator – Hannah Gehman Questioner 1 – Tabby Murphy

Nadler – Reno Stevanus Questioner 2 – Nancy Yoder

Councilor 1 – Bertie Showers Councilor 2 – Tyler Murphy

~Praising and Praying~

Hymn of Praise: VT 421 A Mighty Fortress Is Our God (vs.3)

Prayers of the People

~Storytelling~

Global Story: Ethiopia –Bruce Stauffer

Early Anabaptist Story in Drama #2:

“An Anabaptist Artist: Jan Wouters Van Kuyk, 1572”

Narrator – Mike Gehman Bailiff – Helene Torgler

Jan – Bruce Stauffer Priest – Bob Gerber

Torturer – Dan Hostetler

Hymn of Response : VT 575 Faith of the Martyrs

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scriptures:

1 Peter 5:9 – Hannah Gehman

1 Corinthians 15:58 – Tyler Murphy

2 Thessalonians 2:15 – Nancy Yoder

James 1:12 – Mike Gehman

Hebrews 12:1 – Suzanne Stauffer

Remarks On Steadfast Faith – Mike Gehman

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: VT A Mighty Fortress Is Our God v.4

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: VT 585 Faith Begins by Letting Go

Benediction

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: April Shupe

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Head Usher: Herb Torgler

Our On-Going Series on Anabaptist Beliefs:

In 2018 Lisa Weaver and Elizabeth Miller, as part of the Bearing Witness Stories project, wrote a book for children entitled Let the

Children Come to Me: Nurturing Anabaptist Faith within Families.

“The materials gathered together in this book beautifully

illustrate the central convictions of the Anabaptist tradition.”

-John D. Roth, Director of the Institute for the

Study of Global Anabaptism

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for August: The MCC School Kit Challenge

The Annual Young Life Prayer Vigil is coming up soon, a wonderful way to begin a new school year. Here are the details for the 24 hour vigil on August 16 ^th :

1. You pick a one-hour block of time on Aug. 16 (like 3-4am, 1-2pm, 8-9pm, etc)

2. We hand deliver or mail you a prayer booklet filled with prayer requests and

praises for our local students, volunteers, and the YL ministry here in Tusc &

Holmes counties

3. On August 16th you pray from wherever you are for the hour you selected.

All the above information and sign-up sheet is by the mailboxes.

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Mennonite Mission Network: Seth and Stephany Rudeen hope to begin ministry with Mennonite Mission Network in Guatemala this month. Pray for them as they spend their first months there perfecting their Spanish, before moving on to the Q’eqchi’ (Kekchi) Bezaleel Mennonite Educational Center, where they will assist students in learning English and provide tutoring in other core subjects.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Sue Stauffer: Joe Misser has pancreatic cancer and will be having surgery in two weeks.

Tyler Murphy: Sarah’s mom has an aggressive cancer in her abdomen.

Linda Yoder: Spent two days with mom in the hospital, she is in Afib.

Keo Sixiengmay is needing our prayers—she recently had her appendix removed, but is also having thyroid issues. She will be seeing both her surgeon and a thyroid specialist in the coming week.

THIS WEEK

Aug. 12 ^th Happy Birthday, Mike Keim

Aug. 15 ^th Happy Birthday, Karen Barnes

Aug. 16 ^th Happy Birthday, Tyler Murphy

Aug. 16 ^th Happy Anniversary, Ron & Mary Meyer

Aug. 17 ^th Happy Anniversary, Bruce & Sue Stauffer

NEXT WEEK

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Tabby Murphy

Head Usher: Herb Torgler

UPCOMING EVENTS:

August 16 ^th Young Life Prayer Vigil

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 18

Offering: $2593

Change for a dollar: $22

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor: Mike Gehman: 1-330-749-674

Email: pastor@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30a.m.-2:30p.m

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler

Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Aug. 3, 2025

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 13:57:12 GMT

Anabaptism At Five Hundred

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

August 3, 2025

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30 – 12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

*********************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Anabaptism at 500

Belief Six : Nonviolence

“Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid,

which is Jesus Christ.”

~Gathering in the Royal Bible Classroom~

(around tables)

Welcome and Announcements

Focus Statement:

Anabaptists reject the use of violence, because Jesus rejected

violence and told his disciples to love their enemies. Because the

sword was a soldier’s weapon in the sixteenth century, the early

Anabaptists sometimes referred to nonviolence and the “rejection of

the sword.” Anabaptists seek change through prayer, faithful witness,

and peaceful actions. Christian lives reflect the ultimate peace that

comes from God.

Scripture: Isaiah 2:4b

“They shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears

into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation,

neither shall they learn war any more.”

Time of Meditation : VT 716 God of Grace and God of Glory

Call to Worship:

Leader: In the days to come, the mountain of God’s house will be

established as the highest of the mountains and raised above

all other hills; all nations will stream toward it.

People: Many people will come and say, “Come, let us climb God’s

mountain; that we may be instructed in God’s ways and walk

in God’s paths.” For out of Zion will go forth instruction,

and the word of God from Jerusalem.

Leader: God will judge between the nations, and render decisions for

many countries;

People: They will beat their nuclear bombs into plowshare, and their

guns into gardening tools; nation will not raise weapons

against nation, and never again will they train for war.

ALL: May we be co-creators with God in making that day a reality.

May it begin today. Let us worship God!

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: VT 573 Strong, Peaceful Man of Galilee

~Storytelling~

Early Anabaptist Story: Menno Simons –Helene Torgler

Early Anabaptist Story in Drama #1:

Peace, Peace: Menno Simons,1552

Pastor: Mike Gehman, Menno: Mike Keim

~Praising and Praying~

Hymn of Praise: VT 797 We Are People of God’s Peace

Prayers of the People

~Storytelling~

Global Story: Melvin Ira Glick –Nancy Yoder

Early Anabaptist Story in drama #2:

“Dirk Turns Back: Dirk Willems, 1569”

Reader 1 – Hannah Gehman, Reader 2 – Kristy Keim

Hymn of Response : SJ 56 Make Me a Channel of Thy Peace

(in unison with special piano accompaniment)

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scriptures:

Proverbs 3:31 –Hannah Gehman

Psalm 11:5 –Kristy Keim

Psalm 34:14 –Helene Torgler

Isaiah 2:3-4 –Nancy Yoder

Matthew 5:9 –Mike Gehman

Matthew 5:39-42, 44 –Bruce Stauffer

Matthew 26: 52 –Tyler Murphy

John 14:27 –Reno Stevanus

Romans 12: 17-21 –Mike Keim

I Peter 3:9 –Tabby Murphy

Remarks On Nonviolence –Mike Gehman

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: VT 556 I Bind My Heart This Tide

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: VT 574 We Shall Walk through the Valley

Benediction

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Worship Leader: Bruce Stauffer

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Head Usher: Herb Torgler

Our On-Going Series on Anabaptist Beliefs:

In 2018 Lisa Weaver and Elizabeth Miller, as part of the Bearing Witness Stories project, wrote a book for children entitled Let the

Children Come to Me: Nurturing Anabaptist Faith within Families.

“The materials gathered together in this book beautifully

illustrate the central convictions of the Anabaptist tradition.”

-John D. Roth, Director of the Institute for the

Study of Global Anabaptism

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for August: The MCC School Kit Challenge

The Annual Young Life Prayer Vigil is coming up soon, a wonderful way to begin a new school year. Here are the details for the 24 hour vigil on August 16 ^th :

1. You pick a one-hour block of time on Aug. 16 (like 3-4am, 1-2pm, 8-9pm, etc)

2. We hand deliver or mail you a prayer booklet filled with prayer requests and

praises for our local students, volunteers, and the YL ministry here in Tusc &

Holmes counties

3. On August 16th you pray from wherever you are for the hour you selected.

All the above information and sign-up sheet is by the mailboxes.

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Melonie Blauch Archer: It is a joy to come to church to see people I grew up with.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Mike Gehman: Daughter, Brianna is in her 3 ^rd trimester and has been diagnosed with placenta previa .

THIS WEEK

Aug. 10 ^th Happy Birthday, Tabatha Murphy

NEXT WEEK

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: April Shupe

Head Usher: Herb Torgler

UPCOMING EVENTS:

August 16 ^th Young Life Prayer Vigil

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 18

Offering: $2069

Change for a dollar: $14

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor: Mike Gehman: 1-330-749-674

Email: pastor@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30a.m.-2:30p.m

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler

Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

July 27, 2025

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 14:46:30 GMT

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

July 27, 2025

Worship: 9:30 am

Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

~Gathering~

Prelude

Welcome& Announcements

Focus Statement:

In Psalm 82, the call is issued, “Rise up, O God, judge the earth, for all the nations belong to you”. God’s desire is for people of all nations to come to faith and belief in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. How can we be part of God’s plan to make disciples of all nations, and help fulfill the great commission Jesus gave before he ascended back to the Father? (Matt. 28:19-20)

Time of Meditation :

Call to Worship:

Leader: Holy Triune God, from everlasting to everlasting, you

are Lord. Let the whole earth shout with joy before the

Lord;

People: We lift up our voices with joy and singing: Great is our

Lord, the King!

Leader: Your judgments are true, and all of creation awaits

Your rightful rule;

People: We lift up our voices with joy and singing: Great is

our Lord, the King!

Leader: In righteousness will you judge the world and all the

peoples, with equity;

People: We lift up our voices with joy and singing: Great is

our Lord, the King!

Leader: Who is like our God, King over all the earth?

ALL: We lift up our voices with joy and singing: Great is

our Lord, the King!

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: HWB 46 I sing the mighty power of God

~Praying & Praising~

New Testament Reading: Colossians 1:15-23 (NIV)

Hymn of Praise: HWB 41 Come, thou Almighty King

Prayers of the People

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Psalm 82:1-8

Message: “All the nations belong to you”

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: HWB 398 I Love to Tell the Story

(the offering will be brought forward at this time)

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: HWB 425 Come, Come Ye Saints

Benediction

Postlude

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Guest Minister: Mark Stevanus

Worship Leader: Mike Gehman

Guest Pianist: Tim Miller

Usher: Leadership Team

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Bertie Showers: I had worked for an hour to get my hearing aid to work, and it just started working now.

Dan Hostetler: My mother is doing better.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Kristi Keim: My niece Ava is in the hospital with sepsis and pneumonia.

NEXT WEEK

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Bruce Stauffer

Head Usher: Mike Keim

LAST WEEK (JULY 13)

Attendance: 23

Offering: $395

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

July 13, 2025

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 23:41:30 GMT

Winklepleck Grove Service

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

July 13, 2025

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30 – 12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

*********************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Exploring the Wisdom of Trees

Welcome and Announcements

Focus Statement:

From The Friedensword (spring/summer 2025):

“Our biblical story is bookended by stories in which trees play

prominent roles. Between these two stories, we find hundreds of

biblical references to trees, most of which we miss or even

dismiss—not unlike the trees we pass by each day without so much as a thought. But what might happen if we paid attention to the trees?”

Though most of us won’t make it to Camp Friedenswald this summer to participate in their summer theme, The Wisdom of Trees: Instructions for Living, this morning, let’s explore the trees around us and see what wisdom we might be reminded of.

Time of Meditation: “I Come to the Garden Alone”

~In The Beginning~

Then God said, “Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it,

according to their various kinds.”

And it was so.

The land produced vegetation:

plants bearing seed according to their kinds and

trees bearing fruit with seed in it

according to their kinds.

And God saw that it was good.

–Genesis 1:11-12

Call to Worship: (based on Psalm 1)

Leader: Blessed are those who delight in the law of the Lord,

People: And meditate on God’s word day and night.

Leader: They are like trees planted by streams of water,

People: Which yield their fruit in its season.

All: Let us worship the Lord, our source of wisdom and strength.

Invocation

Hymn: Morning Has Broken

Prayers of the People

Hymn: This Is My Father’s World

~Two Lessons From the Trees~

Introduction : God loves trees!

T ree Wisdom #1: Be deeply rooted.

Scripture: Jeremiah 17:7-8

Hymn: Praise to the Lord the Almighty

Tree Wisdom #2: Help One Another

Scripture: John 15:5-13

Hymn: God, Whose Giving

(the offering will be brought forward)

Offering Prayer

~More Tree Wisdom~

There is so much more tree wisdom we could explore if we had more time—

v how groups of trees become an ecosystem, establishing their own local climate;

v how the forests of the world act as our planet’s air filter;

v how trees go through a regular season of rest, (something many of us find difficult to do!);

v how as trees mature, they lift their limbs in praise to their creator and in so doing point us to God;

v how trees provide safety and shelter to countless wildlife and insects;

v how beautifully useful trees are even after they die—their roots are still alive and remain a part of the community, while the hollowed out trunk becomes a shelter to many;

v how tree diversity leads to healthier forests and helps multiple species of wildlife thrive by providing a wide range of food and homes;

v how God created trees to be resilient, and hard times are not the end of their story—just like trees, we can experience incredible growth after hardship, and we can even be made more strong and resilient and healthy through difficult times.

~Sending Wisdom~

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you

with power through his Spirit in your inner being,

so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.

And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love,

may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people,

to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—

that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

--Ephesians 3:16-19

Final Tree Wisdom: Repeat the cycle year after year, gradually revealing significant growth.

Sending Words

Sending Song: You Shall Go Out With Joy

Leader: Between the tree of life in Genesis and in Revelation,

how are we to live?

People: Like a tree!

Table Grace: Johnny Appleseed

Oh, the Lord’s been good to me.

And so I thank the Lord

For giving me the things I need:

The sun, the rain and the appleseed;

Oh, the Lord's been good to me.

And every seed I sow

Will grow into a tree.

And someday there'll be apples there

For everyone in the world to share.

Oh, the Lord is good to me.

Johnny Appleseed, AMEN!

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Worship Leader: Dan Hostetler

Guitarist and Song Leader: April Shupe

Head Usher: Leadership Team

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

*Don’t forget ----next Sunday, July 20 ^th , is Church Visitation Sunday, and there will be no services held at First Mennonite. Pick up a bulletin wherever you attend and we will enjoy sharing our experiences with each other when we return here on the 27 ^th .

Our Italian son, Mark Stevanus, will be giving the message on July 27 ^th , so you won’t want to miss that!

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Sue Stauffer: Little Harvey was baptized last Sunday.

April Shupe: Mom’s 97 ^th birthday is this week.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Tyler Murphy: Please keep my dad in your prayers, he is dealing with Kidney stones.

Sue Stauffer: Please pray for all those who have been affected by the flooding in Texas. Also, please pray for all those effected by the horrible disease of dementia.

THIS WEEK

July 20 ^th Church Visitation Sunday

(Visit a church of your choice—No morning service at FMC)

IN TWO WEEKS

Text:

Guest Minister: Mark Stevanus

Worship Leader: Helene Torgler

Guest Pianist: Tim Miller

Head Usher: Leadership Team

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 15

Offering: $1260

Change for a dollar: $8

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor: Mike Gehman: 1-330-749-674

Email: pastor@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30a.m.-2:30p.m

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler

Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

July 6, 2025

Sat, 05 Jul 2025 13:42:18 GMT

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

July 6, 2025

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30 – 12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

*********************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Anabaptism at 500

“The Courage to Love” -Service of Reconciliation

Grossmunster Church, Zurich, Switzerland

May 29, 2025, 5 p.m.

Part Two

“Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid,

which is Jesus Christ.”

~Gathering in the Sanctuary, Left Side~

PROCESSION: “Holy God We Praise Thy Name”

Organ introduction

Violin solo

Soprano solo – vs. 1 English

Congregation - vs. 2 English

vs. 1 German

Organ interlude

Congregation – vs. 2 German

Organ conclusion

Welcome and Announcements: Worship Leader – Suzanne Stauffer

Prayers of the People:

(congregation responds, “Lord, hear our prayer or

“Lord, hear our praise”)

Ending Prayer

Creator of Light, thank you for gathering us to this place of worship in the light of this day. Scatter the darkness from our hearts and minds.

May your light comfort the hearts and minds of all who grieve this day…

May your light heal the minds and bodies of all who struggle with illness…

May your light illumine the hearts of minds of all who serve devotedly in the name of Christ…

May your light shine forth with joy for all who praise you. Send forth your light of healing and peace into all the world, we pray, in the name of Jesus, the light of the world. Amen

Reconciliation: The Work Of Our Anabaptist Faith

“Jesus is the center of our faith.

Community is the center of our lives.

Reconciliation is the center of our work.”

-Palmer Becker

THE COURAGE TO LOVE WITHIN THE WOUNDED BODY OF CHRIST: Janet Plenert, Mennonite World Conference

Celebrating Our Journey toward Reconciliation with the Catholic Church: Anne-Cathy Graber, MWC, and the Dicastery for the Promotion of Christian Unity (reading a letter from Pope Leo XIV)

Celebrating Our Journey toward Reconciliation with the Lutheran World Federation: Larry Miller, MWC, and Anne Burghardt, general secretary Lutheran World Federation

Celebrating Our Journey toward Reconciliation with the World

Communion of Reformed Churches: J. Nelson Kraybill, MWC; John

D. Roth, MWC; Hanns Lessing, Executive Secretary for Communion

and Theology WCRC;

FOOTWASHING: Cesar Garcia, MWC, and Setri Nyomi, Interim

General Secretary WCRC.

(Note—the litany read during the service of footwashing is drawn from

the recent MWC-WCRC statement, “Restoring Our Family to

Wholeness: Seeking a Common Witness”

CONFESSING OUR FAITH TOGETHER: The Nicene Creed (each in your own language)

(Note—When Mennonites began to write confessions of faith in the

sicteenth century, all started with God as Trinity in harmony with the

Nicene Creed. But Mennonites also included a commitment to

following the teaching and example of Jesus as an essential part of the

Christian way. Now, in this 1700 th anniversary year of the Nicene

Creed, Mennonites, with renewed commitment to discipleship, join the

universal body of Christ in praising Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.)

All Read Together: We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty,

maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen.

We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God,

eernally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light,

true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the

Father; through him all things were made.

For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven,

was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and became truly

human. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he

suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in

accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is

seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to

judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end.

We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds

from the Father, who with the Father and the Son is worshipped and

glorified, who has spoken through the prophets.

We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church.

We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.

We look for the resurrection of the dead,

and the life of the world to come. Amen.

SONG: “In the Lord I’ll be ever thankful/El Senor es mi Fortaleza”

Violin introduction

Congregation – vs. 1 Catalan (2x)

vs. 2 Espanol (1x)

humming in unison with violin

unison in various languages (2x)

English (2x)

LITANY FOR THE HEALING OF THE NATIONS: “The Courage to Love in a Troubled World” – Lisa Carr-Pries, Danisa Nalovu, MWC

(with organ interlude)

PRAYER: Nancy Heisey, MWC

SONG: “We Want Peace”

Introduction keyboard

Congregation: Chorus English

Solo: German

Congregation: Chorus English

Solo: French

Congregation: Chorus English

Interlude Keyboard

Bridge

Men - Verse English

Women join English

Congregation: Chorus English (3x)

Outro – English

GOING FORTH WITH COURAGE AND LOVE: a Litany of Thanksgiving (Congregation responds with “Thanks be to God!”)

SONG: “Ehre sei Gott/Grosse Doxologie”

Organ Introduction

Congregation sings in German

CLOSING BLESSING:

Leader: As we go from here, Almighty One, set us on the path

toward your kingdom.

People: We heed your call!

Leader: Wherever you send us, let your perfect love cast out our

fear.

People: We got forth in confidence!

Leader: Come, Holy Spirit, inspire us with the faithfulness of

saints through the ages.

People: We follow their example!

Leader: Go forth, sisters and brothers, in the name of the Father,

and the Son and the Holy Spirit.

People: Amen

RECESSIONAL: “Siyahamba”

Introduction: Drums and guitar

Benediction

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Worship Leader: Suzanne Stauffer

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Head Usher: Mike Keim

Our On-Going Series on Anabaptist Beliefs:

In 2018 Lisa Weaver and Elizabeth Miller, as part of the Bearing Witness Stories project, wrote a book for children entitled Let the

Children Come to Me: Nurturing Anabaptist Faith within Families.

“The materials gathered together in this book beautifully

illustrate the central convictions of the Anabaptist tradition.”

-John D. Roth, Director of the Institute for the

Study of Global Anabaptism

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project #1 for June/July: Dress A Child

As one school year ends, this program looks forward to the new 2025-26 school year. Giving our students who attend school in Tuscarawas County a fresh new set of clothes to begin the year is a wonderful blessing. Dress A Child raises money to serve the children in our county whose families meet the federal poverty guidelines. Last year, they were able to give 980 children $85.00 worth of new clothing! Make checks payable to First Mennonite, and one check will be sent at the end of the month from our church to Dress A Child. Thank you!

“Life is good when you are happy; but much better when

others are happy because of you.” -Pope Francis

Mission Project #2 for June/July: MCC My Coins Count Relief Sale Project

Each year, spare change (and bills!) collected by families and churches adds up to more than $600,000 toward MCC’s work around the world. Your coins count! When you give to MCC, you’re sending hope to families in the form of food, water and/or education. We will collect through the last Sunday of June. Drop your coins, bills and/or checks in the bread basket on the table in the rear of the sanctuary. Make checks payable to First Mennonite, and Buce will send one check from our church to the MCC Ohio Relief Sale held in Mt. Hope on July 11 ^th -12 ^h .

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Dan Hostetler: Prayers for Amy’s sister who lost her son from heart issues.

Amy Hostetler: A dear friend’s son has passed, prayers for his family and friends.

Sue Stauffer: A friend from the Model T group is dying, please keep Bret and Nancy in your prayers.

THIS WEEK

July 10 ^th Happy Birthday, Bertie Showers

July 11 ^th – 12 ^th Ohio Mennonite Relief Sale at Mt. Hope Event Center

July 12 ^th Happy Anniversary, Nikki and TJ Bahler

July 13 ^th Winklepleck Grove Service and Picnic

NEXT WEEK

Text:

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Dan Hostetler

Head Usher: Mike Keim

UPCOMING EVENTS:

July 20 ^th Church Visitation Sunday

(Visit a church of your choice—No morning service at FMC)

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 17

Offering: $640

Change for a dollar: $7.24

My Coins Count: $206.03

Dress A Child: $100

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor: Mike Gehman: 1-330-749-674

Email: pastor@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30a.m.-2:30p.m

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler

Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

June 29, 2025

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 14:47:46 GMT

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

June 29, 2025

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30 – 12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

*********************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Anabaptism at 500

“The Courage to Love” -Service of Reconciliation

Grossmunster Church, Zurich, Switzerland

May 29, 2025, 5 p.m.

Part One

“Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid,

which is Jesus Christ.”

~Gathering in the Sanctuary, Left Side~

Welcome and Announcements: Worship Leader – Suzanne Stauffer

Procession: “Holy God We Praise Thy Name”

Organ introduction

Violin Solo

Soprano Solo – Vs. 1 English

Congregation – Vs. 2 English

Vs. 1 German

Organ interlude

Congregation – Vs. 2 German

Organ conclusio

Welcome:

Martin Rusch, Pastor Gossmunster/Swiss Reformed Church

Gladys Geiser & Lukas Amstutz, co-Presidents Swiss Mennonites

Henk Stenvers, President Mennonite World Conference

Invocation (With Congregation): Rebecca Osiro, Mennonite World Conference

Leader: I will sing of the Lord’s great love forever.

People: With my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through

all generations.

Leader: I will declare that your love stands firm forever,

People: that you have established your faithfulness in heaven itself.

Leader: Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne;

People: your faithfulness in the assembly of the holy ones…

Leader: Praise be to the Lord forever!

All: Amen and Amen

Prayer: Sunoko Lin, Treasurer, Mennonite World Conference

Songs: “Ewe Thina” and “Cantai ao Senhor”

“Ewe Thina/We Walk His Way”

Drums, then Men, then Women

Congregation – Vs. 1 South African

Vs. 2 English

Repeat South African

“Cantai ao Senhor/We Sing to the Lord”

Violin

Congregation – Sing Spanish (3x)

Sing Portuguese

Interlude

Congregation – Sing Spanish (2x)

Sing Vs. 1 English

Sing Vs. 2 English

Sing Vs. 5 English

Solo English

Repeat last phrase 2x

CHURCH DISRUPTION BY SOME PEOPLE OF GOD: (Anabaptist forebearers interrupting worship – note the papers dropped from the balcony)

CONFESSION AND LAMENT: Danisa Ndlovu and Lisa Carr-Pries, MWC

THE LORD’S PRAYER: Congregation in all languages

ASSURANCE OF FORGIVENESS

PROCLAIMING GOD’S WORD – SCRIPTURE: 2 Kings 5:1-3 – Tigist Tesfaye MWC

SERMON: “The Courage to Love” – Cesar Garcia, general secretary MWC

SONG: “May the Peace of Christ/Kirisuto no heiwa ga”

Congregation – Vs. 1 Japanese (2x)

Music Interlude

Congregation – Vs. 2 English (2x) great person next to you

Vs. 3 German (2x)

Prayer of The People

Benediction

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Worship Leader: Suzanne Stauffer

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Head Usher: Mike Keim

Our On-Going Series on Anabaptist Beliefs:

In 2018 Lisa Weaver and Elizabeth Miller, as part of the Bearing Witness Stories project, wrote a book for children entitled Let the

Children Come to Me: Nurturing Anabaptist Faith within Families.

“The materials gathered together in this book beautifully

illustrate the central convictions of the Anabaptist tradition.”

-John D. Roth, Director of the Institute for the

Study of Global Anabaptism

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project #1 for June/July: Dress A Child

“Life is good when you are happy; but much better when

others are happy because of you.” -Pope Francis

Mission Project #2 for June/July: MCC My Coins Count Relief Sale Project

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Lizzie Keim: Esther Hamsher collected $200 and is giving us $100 for my coins count.

Sue Stauffer: Praises for everyone who is here with us today, Nat and Vi Miller, Jim and Bonnie Raber Wickes, and Gerlinde Schneider.

Bertie Showers: Thankful that Gerlinde had a safe trip to visit us.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Sue Stauffer: Prayers for everyone that has been affected by the United States/ bombing of Iran.

THIS WEEK

July 3 ^rd Happy Anniversary, Dan & Amy Hostetler

NEXT WEEK

Text:

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Kristy Keim

Head Usher: Mike Keim

UPCOMING EVENTS:

July 11 ^th – 12 ^th Ohio Mennonite Relief Sale at Mt. Hope Event Center

July 13 ^th Winklepleck Grove Service and Picnic

July 20 ^th Church Visitation Sunday

(Visit a church of your choice—No morning service at FMC)

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 23

Offering: $786

Change for a dollar: $14

My Coins Count: $100

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor: Mike Gehman: 1-330-749-674

Email: pastor@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30a.m.-2:30p.m

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler

Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

June 22, 2025

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 14:56:30 GMT

Anabaptism At Five Hundred

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

June 22, 2025

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30 – 12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

*********************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Anabaptism at 500

Belief Five: Worship

“Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid,

which is Jesus Christ.”

~Gathering in the Royal Bible Classroom~

(around tables)

Welcome and Announcements

Focus Statement:

Worship is a time when church members come together to pray,

sing, read Scripture, share with each other, and give praise to God. It

can be a time of fellowship, comfort, celebration, or a call for renewed

action. It is a time to come together in God’s presence and remember

why we make Jesus the center of our lives. Believers can worship in a

church building, in a home, or in a boat—worship can happen anywhere.

Scripture: Matthew 18:20

“For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there

among them..”

Time of Meditation : VT 1 Summoned by the God Who Made Us v1-4

Call to Worship:

Leader: Wake up, O First Mennonite people!

People: True evangelical faith cannot lie sleeping.

It clothes the naked, it comforts the sorrowful,

It shelters the destitute, it serves those that harm it,

It binds up that which is wounded.

It has become all things to all people.*

(moments of silence for meditation)

ALL: Let us rise up in true faith and shine the Light of Love to

the world this day!

* Quote from Menno Simons

Invocation:

Leader: We have come to worship you, O God;

People: gather us in.

Leader: Some of us come full of happiness;

People: gather us in.

Leader: Some of us come a little sore from what life brings;

People: gather us in.

Leader: Some of us come indifferent or confused;

People: gather us in.

Leader: We honor you—who forms us and calls us each by name

You are our God, known yet unknown, present here yet

everywhere now and forever. You have made us distinctly

unique and yet part of your people world-wide.

ALL: Gather us in to your fierce love, your tender care, your

abundant grace.

Leader: We pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Hymn of Gathering: VT 9 Come Away from Rush and Hurry

~Storytelling~

Early Anabaptist Story: Dirk Pieters and Andrew Samuel

~Praising and Praying~

Hymn of Praise: VT 5 All People That on Earth Do Dwell

Prayers of the People

~Storytelling~

Global Story: Story about drums, – Suzanne Stauffer

Early Anabaptist Story in Drama #1:

Anabaptist Worship in the Forest: Magister Elias Schad, 1576 Background – April Shupe

Reader 1 – Nancy Yoder,

Reader 2 – Bob Gerber

Waker – Herb Torgler

Brother Peter – Tyler Murphy

Sister Elisabeth – Hannah Gehman,

Brother Hans – Mike Gehman

Hymn of Response : VT 4 Christ Is Our Cornerstone

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scriptures:

Sincere Worship: John 4:24, – Nancy Yoder

Praise and Thanksgiving: Psalm 95:6, Psalm 150:6,– Bob Gerber

Offering One’s Life: Romans 12:1, Reader 3 – Mike Gehman

Singing and Hymns: Colossians 3:16, Reader 4 – Kristy Keim

Reverence and Awe: Hebrews 12:28, Reader 5 - Tabby Murphy

Living in God’s Presence: Psalm 63:1-4, Reader 6 – Reno Stevanus

Worship as a Calling: Revelation 5:13, Reader 7 – Hannah Gehman

Anabaptist Story in Drama #2:

Multivoiced Worship: the Anabaptist Perspective, 1536

Background – April Shupe, Narrator –Helene Torgler,

Matt – Bruce Stauffer, Tim – Mike Keim

Remarks on Worship – April Shupe

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: VT 40 In This Holy Place We Bow v2

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: VT 638 Love Divine, All Loves Excelling

Benediction

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Worship Leader: April Shupe

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Head Usher: Mike Keim

Our On-Going Series on Anabaptist Beliefs:

In 2018 Lisa Weaver and Elizabeth Miller, as part of the Bearing Witness Stories project, wrote a book for children entitled Let the

Children Come to Me: Nurturing Anabaptist Faith within Families.

“The materials gathered together in this book beautifully

illustrate the central convictions of the Anabaptist tradition.”

-John D. Roth, Director of the Institute for the

Study of Global Anabaptism

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project #1 for June/July: Dress A Child

“Life is good when you are happy; but much better when

others are happy because of you.” -Pope Francis

Mission Project #2 for June/July: MCC My Coins Count Relief Sale Project

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Sue Stauffer: Jim Cahill has a goal to ride his bike this week for GOBA (Great American Bicycle Adventure), His family is coming to ride with him. Prayers he will be capable to complete this challenge.

Bertie Showers: Brad and April will be home today from camping.

Dan Hostetler: Mom’s test results came back good from the spot on her lung.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Kristy Keim: Friend, Diana is having problems with a bulged disc in her back.

Lizzie Keim: Sister Marry will need to have a liver transplant.

THIS WEEK

June 24 ^th Happy Birthday, Bob Barnes

June 26 ^th Happy Birthday, Helene Torgler

NEXT WEEK

Text:

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Tabatha Murphy

Head Usher: Mike Keim

UPCOMING EVENTS:

July 11 ^th – 12 ^th Ohio Mennonite Relief Sale at Mt. Hope Event Center

July 13 ^th Winklepleck Grove Service and Picnic

July 20 ^th Church Visitation Sunday

(Visit a church of your choice—No morning service at FMC)

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 22

Offering: $980

Change for a dollar: $7

My Coins Count: $41.50

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor: Mike Gehman: 1-330-749-674

Email: pastor@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30a.m.-2:30p.m

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler

Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

June 15, 2025

Sat, 14 Jun 2025 13:34:27 GMT

Happy Father’s Day!

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

June 15, 2025

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30-12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

~Gathering~

Prelude: "Praise Him! Praise Him!" - arr. Lloyd Larson

Welcome& Announcements

Focus Statement:

Paul letter to the church in Colossae gave examples of ways to grow in faith, hope, and love as we seek to follow Christ. Paul prayed that the believers would know God’s will, and have spiritual wisdom and understanding. He prayed that their lives

would bear fruit and that they would walk in ways that honored God. He wanted them to have both endurance and patience and always be thankful to God the Father who called them to live in the kingdom of his Son, Jesus Christ. What are ways that we can grow in our faith and live out our calling to follow Jesus Christ?

Time of Meditation : "This Is My Father's World"

- arr. Lloyd Larson

Call to Worship:

Leader: We lift up our souls to you, Holy God.

People: We trust the Lord with our past, present, and future.

Leader: Teach us, Lord, that we may know your ways.

People: Guide our every move, Holy One, that we may walk

in your paths of love and mercy.

Leader: Let us worship the One who leads us in what is right.

All: Together, let us worship God!

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: HWB 6 Here In This Place

~Praying & Praising~

Scripture : Psalm: 25:1-7 (NIV)

Leader: In you, LORD my God, I put my trust.

People: I trust in you; do not let me be put to shame, nor

let my enemies’ triumph over me.

Leader: No one who hopes in you will ever be put to

shame, but shame will come on those who are

treacherous without cause.

People: Show me your ways, LORD, teach me your paths.

Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are

God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day

long.

Leader: Remember, LORD, your great mercy and love, for

they are from of old.

People: Do not remember the sins of my youth and my

rebellious ways;

All: according to your love remember me, for you,

LORD, are good.

Hymn of Praise HWB 53 God of the Earth, the Sky, the Sea

Prayers of the People

Hymn of Praise : HWB 366 God of Grace and God of Glory

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Colossians 1:1-14

Message: “Living Out Our Faith”

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: HWB 328 O God, Our Help in Ages Past

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: HWB 425 Come, Come Ye Saints

Benediction:

Leader: The Lord God almighty is our Father:
People: He loves us and tenderly cares for us.

Leader: The Lord Jesus Christ is our Savior:
People: he has redeemed us and will defend us to the end.

Leader: The Lord, the Holy Spirit is among us:
People: he will lead us in God's holy way.

All: To God almighty, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, be

praise and glory today and forever. Amen.

Postlude: "Praise to the Lord, the Almighty" - arr. John Carter

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Dan Hostetler

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Usher: Mike Keim

Our On-Going Series on Anabaptist Beliefs:

In conjunction with our Anabaptist at Five Hundred celebration this year, we would love to have pictures of any community, service and/or peace experiences our church members have experienced over the years. Please give to April or Tabby who will scan them into the computer. You will get them back!

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project #1 for June/July: Dress A Child

“Life is good when you are happy; but much better when

others are happy because of you.” -Pope Francis

Mission Project #2 for June/July: MCC My Coins Count

Each year, spare change (and bills!) collected by families and churches adds up to more than $600,000 toward MCC’s work around the world. Your coins count! When you give to MCC, you’re sending hope to families in the form of food, water or education. We will collect through the last Sunday of June. Drop your coins, bills and/or checks in the breadbasket on the table in the rear of the sanctuary. Make checks payable to First Mennonite, and Buce will send one check from our church to the MCC Ohio Relief Sale held in Mt. Hope on July 11 ^th -12 ^th .

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Dan Hostetler: Mother Joanne has had several test on a spot on her lungs.

Reno Stevanus: April Houston has passed away, prayers for her children.

THIS WEEK

June 24 ^th Happy Birthday, Bob Barnes

NEXT WEEK

Text :

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: April Shupe

Head Usher: Mike Keim

UPCOMING EVENTS:

July 11 ^th -12 ^th Ohio Mennonite Relief Sale at Mt. Hope Event Center

July 13 ^th Winklepleck Grove Service and Picnic

July 20 ^th Church Visitation Sunday

(Visit a church of your choice—No morning service at FMC)

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 19

Offering: $1070

Change for a dollar: $16.08

My Coins Count: $4.62

Dress a Child: $40

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

June 8, 2025

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 14:05:44 GMT

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

June 8, 2025

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30-12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Pentecost:

Abundant Fruits of the Holy Spirit

~Gathering~

Prelude: “Holy, Holy, Holy” -arr. Mark Hayes,

performed by Marcia Rewerts

Welcome& Announcements

Focus Statement:

Pentecost is the day in the liturgical calendar when the church celebrates the gift of the Holy Spirit, and the birth of the church as we know it, recorded in Acts 2. It is a festival of abundance—-abundant diversity, abundant love, abundant experience of the Holy Spirit in Acts 2, and abundant experiences of the fruit of the Spirit. The Holy Spirit’s power is more than just to enable us to do the supernatural. He empowers us for the journey from doing what pleases the flesh to what pleases God. This is not an easy journey, but it is also not a lonely journey. We have been given the Holy Spirit and we have been given the church to help us develop into the person God intends.

Time of Meditation : “Veni Sancte Spiritus” (Come Holy

Spirit), performed by the Taizé community

Call to Worship:

Leader: On this Pentecost Sunday, we welcome the howling

Spirit.

People: who brings peace.

Leader: We receive the fierce Spirit,

People: who leads us to gentleness.

Leader: We are surprised by the sudden Spirit movement

People: that opens a patient place within us.

Leader: We wait with expectation for the fire of the Spirit.

People: to kindle a bright spark of faithfulness.

Leader: The Spirit among us flames with kindness.

People: The Spirit alights on each of us with joy,

Leader: fills us with God’s goodness,

People: forms us into people who act with intention and

wisdom.

All: In the power of the Spirit, let us speak the language of love

in this sacred space of worship.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: HWB 349 Spirit of the Living God

~Praying & Praising~

Scripture: Acts 2:1-4 (English Standard Version )

Prayers of the People

Hymn of Praise : HWB 48 All Creatures of Our God and King

v1, 2, 3, 7

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Galatians 5:16-26 (English Standard Version)

Message: “Live By the Spirit”

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: HWB 504 Have Thine Own Way

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: HWB 507 Gracious Spirit Dwell With Me

Benediction

Postlude: “I’m Going to Sing When the Spirit Says Sing”

-arr. Mark Hayes, performed by Donna Emmert

I'm gonna sing when the Spirit says sing,

and obey the Spirit of the Lord.

I’m going to pray when the Spirit says pray….

I’m going to move when the Spirit says move….

I’m going to shout when the Spirit says shout….

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Helene Torgler

Usher: Mike Keim

Our On-Going Series on Anabaptist Beliefs:

In conjunction with our Anabaptist at Five Hundred celebration this year, we would love to have pictures of any community, service and/or peace experiences our church members have experienced over the years. Please give to April or Tabby who will scan them into the computer. You will get them back!

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project #1 for June/July: Dress A Child

“Life is good when you are happy; but much better when

others are happy because of you.” -Pope Francis

Mission Project #2 for June/July: MCC My Coins Count

Each year, spare change (and bills!) collected by families and churches adds up to more than $600,000 toward MCC’s work around the world. Your coins count! When you give to MCC, you’re sending hope to families in the form of food, water or education. We will collect through the last Sunday of June. Drop your coins, bills and/or checks in the breadbasket on the table in the rear of the sanctuary. Make checks payable to First Mennonite, and Buce will send one check from our church to the MCC Ohio Relief Sale held in Mt. Hope on July 11 ^th -12 ^th .

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Bruce Stauffer: Sue is in Switzerland and will be back on Tuesday, I am surviving.

Bertie Showers: April and I are expecting our good friend from Austria.

Melonie Blauch Archer: Cousin Sarah is moving to New Philadelphia from Florida.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

April Shupe: Fran Mast has a type of Myalgia that affects the face, she is going to see a neurologist.

THIS WEEK

June 12 ^th Happy Birthday, Keo Sixiengmay

June 13 ^th 29 ^th Annual Beachy’s Ham and Chicken Buffet benefiting

Ohio Hospice, 4:30-7:30 pm at Legacy Christian School.

NEXT WEEK

Text : Psalm: 25:1-7; Colossians 1:1-14

Minister: Mike Gehman Worship Leader: Dan Hostetler Head Usher: Mike Keim

UPCOMING EVENTS:

July 11 ^th -12 ^th Ohio Mennonite Relief Sale at Mt. Hope Event Center

July 13 ^th Winklepleck Grove Service and Picnic

July 20 ^th Church Visitation Sunday

(Visit a church of your choice—No morning service at FMC)

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 23

Offering: $1353

Change for a dollar: $8

My Coins Count: $44.80

Dress a Child: $75

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

June 1, 2025

Fri, 30 May 2025 14:27:57 GMT

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

June 1, 2025

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30-12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

~Gathering~

Prelude: “The Heavens Declare His Glory” -Beethoven

Welcome& Announcements

Focus Statement:

Part of Jesus' prayer for his disciples in John 17 was that they would be one, just as he was one with the Father. In this future community for which Jesus is praying, oneness does not mean sameness, but it does mean "love" among the different

members. This commandment to love one another is based on the love between the Father and the Son. "As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love." As followers of Christ today, how can we live in love and be one in the Spirit, as Jesus prayed?

Time of Meditation : “Sweet By and By”

–arr. Joseph P. Webster

Call to Worship: (based on Psalm 1 and John 17)

Leader: I tell you this: It is a wonderful thing when members of

the family live together in love and peace.

People: They shall be like trees planted beside flowing rivers.

Leader: May the church be one, just as Christ and God are

one, that Christ may be glorified in us.

People: They shall yield good fruit in its season, and their

leaf shall never wither.

Leader: The grace, mercy and peace, of the Lord Jesus, be

with you all.

People: And also with you.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: HWB 12 Come Let Us All Unite to Sing

~Praying & Praising~

Old Testament Reading: Psalm 97:1-6, 9-12

Leader: The Lord reigns, let the earth be glad; let the distant

shores rejoice.

People: Clouds and thick darkness surround him;

righteousness and justice are the foundation of his

throne.

Leader: Fire goes before him and consumes his foes on every

side. His lightning lights up the world; the earth

sees and trembles.

People: The mountains melt like wax before the Lord,

before the Lord of all the earth.

All: The heavens proclaim his righteousness, and all

peoples see his glory.

Leader: For you, Lord, are the Most High over all the earth;

you are exalted far above all gods.

People: Let those who love the Lord hate evil, for he guards

the lives of his faithful one and delivers them from

the hand of the wicked.

Leader: Light shines on the righteous and joy on the upright in

heart.

All: Rejoice in the Lord, you who are righteous, and praise

his holy name.

Prayers of the People

Hymn of Praise : HWB 117 Fairest Lord Jesus

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: John 17:20-26

Message: “Are We One in the Spirit? Are We One in the Lord?

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: HWB 420 Heart with Loving Heart United

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Hymn: HWB 421 Bless’d Be the Tie That Binds v1, 3, 4

Benediction

Sending Song: We Are One in the Spirit

We are One in The Spirit,
We are One in The Lord.
We are One in The Spirit,
We are One in The Lord.
And we pray that all unity may one day be restored.

And they'll know we are Christians

by our love, by our love.

Yes they'll know we are Christians by our love.

Postlude: “How Firm A Foundation” –arr. Ethel Trench Rogers

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Bruce Stauffer

Guest Pianist: Shirley Homan

Usher: Mike Keim

Our On-Going Series on Anabaptist Beliefs:

In conjunction with our Anabaptist at Five Hundred celebration this year, we would love to have pictures of any community, service and/or peace experiences our church members have experienced over the years. Please give to April or Tabby who will scan them into the computer. You will get them back!

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project #1 for June/July: Dress A Child

“Life is good when you are happy; but much better when

others are happy because of you.” -Pope Francis

Mission Project #2 for June/July: MCC My Coins Count

Each year, spare change (and bills!) collected by families and churches adds up to more than $600,000 toward MCC’s work around the world. Your coins count! When you give to MCC, you’re sending hope to families in the form of food, water or education. We will collect through the last Sunday of June. Drop your coins, bills and/or checks in the breadbasket on the table in the rear of the sanctuary. Make checks payable to First Mennonite, and Buce will send one check from our church to the MCC Ohio Relief Sale held in Mt. Hope on July 11 ^th -12 ^th .

Note: Bertie Showers has a new phone number: 330-852-5147.

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Bruce Stauffer: Sue will be flying this week to Zurich.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Tabatha Murphy: Bill Flinner will be having bladder cancer surgery on Thursday at Mercy Medical Center. Also, Jean Flinner is having problems with her heart and her legs and feet are swelling.

Helene Torgler: Good Friend of Marla’s has been battling cancer; their white blood count is low.

Lizzie Keim: Sarah’s breast cancer has returned and has spread everywhere.

Sue Stauffer: A delegation from Mennonite Action will be going to Gaza.

THIS WEEK

June 5 ^th Happy Birthday, Khammoune Phoutarath

NEXT WEEK

Text for Pentecost: Acts 2:1-4; Galatians 4:1-7; Galatians 5:16-26

Minister: Mike Gehman Worship Leader: Helene Torgler Head Usher: Mike Keim

UPCOMING EVENTS:

June 6 ^th – 7 ^th Fabulous Fifties Fling Downtown Sugarcreek

June 8 ^th Pentecost Sunday (wear your red and orange!)

June 13 ^th 29 ^th Annual Beachy’s Ham and Chicken Buffet benefiting

Ohio Hospice, 4:30-7:30 pm at Legacy Christian School.

July 11 ^th -12 ^th Ohio Mennonite Relief Sale at Mt. Hope Event Center

July 13 ^th Winklepleck Grove Service and Picnic

July 20 ^th Church Visitation Sunday

(Visit a church of your choice—No morning service at FMC)

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 17

Offering: $1066

Easter Flowers: $27.85

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

May 25, 2025

Sat, 24 May 2025 16:42:50 GMT

Anabaptism At Five Hundred

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

May 25, 2025

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30 – 12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

*********************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Anabaptism at 500

Belief Four: Bearing Witness

“Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid,

which is Jesus Christ.”

~Gathering in the Royal Bible Classroom~

(around tables)

Welcome and Announcements

Focus Statement:

Anabaptists have a history of “bearing witness” to their faith in Jesus, even in difficult circumstances. Bearing witness may mean that a person continues to live out her or his faith even when it is against the law. For some, bearing witness means participating in a public action to show a way of thinking believing, or being. Others would explain bearing witness as a way of living each day, no matter how ordinary, as a disciple of Christ. The term is used in both the Old and New Testaments to describe various forms of testimony, including that of prophets, individuals, and even divine entities.

Scripture: Matthew 5:14-16

“ You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid.

No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket,

but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house.

In the same way, let light shine before others,

so that they may see your good works and

give glory to your Father in heaven.”

Time of Meditation: HWB 403 The Church of Christ, in Every Age

Call to Worship:

Leader: In defiance of corruption and falsehood,

People: we commit to truth and integrity, and we pray for honesty

and uprightness to increase in our world.

Leader: In defiance of apathy and hatred,

People: choose to be proactive in love, and we pray for understanding

and peace to increase in our world.

Leader: In defiance of skepticism and cynicism,

People: we embrace the mystery of faith, and we pray for humility

and wonder to increase in our world.

Leader: In defiance of all that would oppose God’s purpose among us,

People: we choose again to follow Christ, and we continue to pray, not

just now, but at all times. Amen.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: VT 87 O Praise the Gracious Power v 1,6,7

~Storytelling~

Early Anabaptist Story: Joriaen Simon -read by Nancy Yoder

~Praising and Praying~

Hymn of Praise: VT123 Come, Ye Thankful People

Prayers of the People

~Storytelling~

Global Story: Hugo Donatti -read by Linda Yoder

Early Anabaptist Story in Drama:

The Farmer and The Preacher: Jacob Hottinger, 1523

Narrator – Suzanne Stauffer, Farmer – Bruce Stauffer,

Preacher Lorenz - Brad Shupe, Reader 1 – Helene Torgler,

Reader 2 – Tyler Murphy

Hymn of Response : VT 590 How Can We Be Silent

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Matthew 28:19-20

Remarks: Thoughts about the Church and the Importance of Bearing Witness -Tabby Murphy

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: VT 545 Here I Am, Lord

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: VT 841 As You Go Out from Here

Benediction

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Worship Leader: Brad Shupe

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Head Usher: Monk Yoder

Our On-Going Series on Anabaptist Beliefs:

In 2018 Lisa Weaver and Elizabeth Miller, as part of the Bearing Witness Stories project, wrote a book for children entitled Let the

Children Come to Me: Nurturing Anabaptist Faith within Families.

“The materials gathered together in this book beautifully

illustrate the central convictions of the Anabaptist tradition.”

-John D. Roth, Director of the Institute for the

Study of Global Anabaptism

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project for June: Dress A Child

“Life is good when you are happy; but much better when

others are happy because of you.” -Pope Francis

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Dan Hostetler: Mom is home from rehab.

Linda Yoder: Dad had a cardiologist appointment and everything went well.

Amy Hostetler: Tomorrow, I will retire from being a teacher.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Lizzie Keim: My sister Katie had a stroke, will have an MRI on Monday. Also, please pray for the people affected by the tornadoes last week.

Sue Stauffer: College roommate Janice has cancer.

THIS WEEK

May 26 ^th Happy Birthday, Brad Shupe

May 31 ^st Happy Anniversary, Bill & Jean Flinner

NEXT WEEK

Text: Psalm 97; John 17:20-26

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Bruce Stauffer

Head Usher: Mike Keim

UPCOMING EVENTS:

June 6 ^th – 7 ^th Fabulous Fifties Fling Downtown Sugarcreek

June 8 ^th Pentecost Sunday

June 13 ^th 29 ^th Annual Beachy’s Ham and Chicken Buffet benefiting

Ohio Hospice, 4:30-7:30 pm at Legacy Christian School.

July 13 ^th Winklepleck Grove Service and Picnic

July 20 ^th Church Visitation Sunday

(Visit a church of your choice—No morning service at FMC)

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 19

Offering: $1265

Change for a dollar: $12

Easter Flowers: $47.75

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor: Mike Gehman: 1-330-749-674

Email: pastor@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30a.m.-2:30p.m

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler

Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

May 18, 2025

Sat, 17 May 2025 14:37:09 GMT

Anabaptism At Five Hundred

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

May 18, 2025

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30 – 12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

*********************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Anabaptism at 500

Belief Three: Community

“Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid,

which is Jesus Christ.”

~Gathering in the Royal Bible Classroom~

(around tables)

Welcome and Announcements

Focus Statement:

The church is a community of people linked together to one another and to God. That linking is shown in community worship and gatherings. Community members support each other in daily life, in times of both joy and sorrow.

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:26

“If one member suffers, all suffer together with it; if one member

is honored, all rejoice together with it.”

Time of Meditation: VT 813 Heart With Loving Heart United

Call to Worship:

Leader: We come together as the family of faith.

People: We assemble to honor the living God.

Leader: Through Christ, we become God’s holy household.

People: In Christ we are bonded together to be God’s people.

Leader: Our worship is united into oneness by the Holy Spirit.

People: In communion with the Holy Spirit, let us celebrate our

unity.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: VT 25 Brethren WE Have Met to Worship

~Storytelling~

Early Anabaptist Story (Moravia) -Dan Hostetler

Early Anabaptist Story in Drama #1:

The Christian Community of Goods: Peter Walpot, 1577

Questioner – Brad Shupe, Peter – Bob Gerber

~Praising and Praying~

Hymn of Praise: VT 722 Help Us to Help Each Other

Prayers of the People

~Storytelling~

Early Anabaptist Story in drama #2:

Economics, a Hot Topic: Menno Simons (1552)

Critic – Kristy Keim, Menno – Mike Keim, Reader 1 – Jon Gerber,

Reader 2 – Bertie Showers, Reader 3 – Amy Hostetler,

Reader 4– Bruce Stauffer, Reader 5 – Nancy Yoder

Hymn of Response : VT 778 Will You Let Me Be Your Servant

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Romans 12:4-18

Readers 1-5 above, plus Reader 6 – Helene Torgler

Remarks: Thoughts about the Church and the Importance of

Community – Dan Hostetler

~Responding~

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: VT 831 Blest Be the Tie That Binds

Benediction

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Worship Leader: Tabby Murphy

Head Usher: Monk Yoder

Our On-Going Series on Anabaptist Beliefs:

In 2018 Lisa Weaver and Elizabeth Miller, as part of the Bearing Witness Stories project, wrote a book for children entitled Let the

Children Come to Me: Nurturing Anabaptist Faith within Families.

“The materials gathered together in this book beautifully

illustrate the central convictions of the Anabaptist tradition.”

-John D. Roth, Director of the Institute for the

Study of Global Anabaptism

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Mike Gehman: Ken had his brain surgery and everything went well, they didn’t have to as much as they thought.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

April Shupe: Ran into Keutmy and Khammoune in the store, they are doing well, will have a cancer follow-up appointment to check and make sure everything looks alright. Also, their grandson is having skin issues and needs our prayers.

Dan Hostetler: Continue prayers for mom, she is in rehab and will hopefully be able to go home tomorrow.

THIS WEEK

May 24 ^th Happy Anniversary, Mike & Hannah Gehman

NEXT WEEK

Note: Next Sunday we will be having another Anabaptist at Five Hundred worship service, meeting in the S.S. room beside the office instead of in the sanctuary. We will be meeting at our usual time.

Worship Leader: Brad Shupe

Head Usher: Monk Yoder

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 23

Offering: $740

Change for a dollar: $15

Easter Flowers: $8

Memory of Lillian Horrisberger (Joan Lingler’s sister): $100

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor: Mike Gehman: 1-330-749-674

Email: pastor@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30a.m.-2:30p.m

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler

Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

May 11, 2025

Fri, 09 May 2025 14:52:58 GMT

Celebrating Mother’s Day—

One Endless Line of Faith

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

May 11, 2025

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30-12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

~Gathering~

Prelude : “When Morning Gilds the Skies” -arr. Mark Hayes,

performed by David Lutz, piano and Karen Eddinger, organ

Welcome& Announcements

Focus Statement:

Our journey of faith in walking with Christ began as we believed in Jesus' death on the cross and his resurrection life that gives us the power to become people of faith. Before our journey began seeds were sown and examples of Christ's love were seen in the lives of family and friends who lived out their faith. These powerful examples are part of a legacy of faith and love that were demonstrated in their lives, and also served as models of what it means to follow Jesus Christ. Think of people who were examples of faith and showing Christ's love that influenced your life. How can we continue to carry out this calling to pass on the legacy of faith in Christ to others?

Time of Meditation : “The Sweet By and By”

-arr. Mark Hayes, performed by Timothy King

(words printed in back of bulletin)

Call to Worship:

Leader: We gather together to worship our loving, nurturing

God, who, like a mother, knows us intimately, loves

us unconditionally, teaches us the way we should

go, and comforts us in times of need.

People: Praise God, the Source and Sustainer of life!

Leader: We’ve come to worship God, who loved us before

we were yet born, who knows us even better than

we know ourselves, whose presence never leaves

us, and whose love for us never ceases.

People: This is our God. Let’s worship together!

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: HWB 14 Come, We That Love the Lord

~Praying & Praising~

Old Testament Reading: Deuteronomy 4: 1-2, 6-9

Prayers of the People

Hymn of Praise : HWB 156 All Things Bright & Beautiful

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: II Timothy 1:3-7

Message: “Pass It On”

Special Music: Pass It On

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: HWB 490 Lord of the Home

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: HWB I Love to Tell the Story

Benediction:

Leader: May the Lord who brought us to birth by his Spirit,

strengthen us for the Christian life.

Right: May the Lord who provides for all our needs sustain us

day by day.

Left: May the Lord whose steadfast love is as constant as a mother's

care, send us out to live and work for others.

All: May the Lord, who hears our ardent prayers, grant that

our families will embrace Christ and indeed continue that

one endless line of faith until He returns. AMEN.

Postlude : “For the Beauty of the Earth” -arr. John Rutter,

performed by the Cambridge Singers

Sending Words

*At the end of the service, please help fold the comforters around you and either lay them at the end of the pew, or take them to the back bench. Thank you!

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: April Shupe

Usher: Monk Yoder

Note about the altar and cover art:

The Infant Samuel - 1776, by Sir Joshua Reynolds (b. 1723 England, d. 1792). Here in his portrait of the child Samuel, the stylistic guise he dons is that of Rembrandt. In earthy shades of brown, he shows Samuel, the last judge and first prophet of Israel, as a child. The very choice of theme is unusual, considering the role of Samuel as the epitome of constant obedience, great wisdom and just but firm rule, a weighty role indeed for a child of such tender age, as Reynolds shows here. But it all began with his mother Hannah. After years of infertility, she prays for a son and vows to dedicate him to the Lord if granted. God answers her prayer, and she names her son Samuel, meaning "heard of God." She later fulfills her vow by dedicating Samuel to the priesthood at Shiloh.

In conjunction with our Anabaptist at Five Hundred celebration this year, we would love to have pictures of any community, service and/or peace experiences our church members have experienced over the years. Please give to April or Tabby who will scan them into the computer. You will get them back!

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Tabatha Murphy: Uncle Bill is home from the hospital and is doing better.

April Shupe: During the storm last week, a tree fell on our pool, thankful for our neighbors who came to help in our time of need.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Sue Stauffer: The roof of our garage came off during the storms, the garage door was saved thanks to our neighbors. Also, Jim Cahill has contracted a virus, his blood counts are messed up and he will need an infusion.

Bertie Shupe: Ken will be brought to Sugarcreek where we will have a service for him.

Reno Stevanus: Ted Brown passed away Tuesday morning, prayers to his friends and family.

THIS WEEK

May 14 ^th Happy Birthday, Jocele Meyer

May 14 ^th Happy Birthday, Lizzie Keim

NEXT WEEK

Note: Next Sunday we will be having another Anabaptist at Five Hundred worship service, meeting in the S.S. room beside the office instead of in the sanctuary. We will be meeting at our usual time.

Worship Leader: Tabatha Murphy

Head Usher: Monk Yoder

LAST WEEK

Attendance: 18

Offering: $1683

Change for a dollar: $79

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

The Sweet By and By

Words by Sanford Fillmore Bennet

Music by Joseph P. Webster

1) There's a land that is fairer than day,
And by faith we can see it afar,
For the Father waits over the way
To prepare us a dwelling place there.

Refrain:
In the sweet by and by,
We shall meet on that beautiful shore;
In the sweet by and by,
We shall meet on that beautiful shore.

2) We shall sing on that beautiful shore
The melodious songs of the blest;
And our spirits shall sorrow no more-
Not a sigh for the blessing of rest. [Refrain]

3) To our bountiful Father above
We will offer our tribute of praise
For the glorious gift of His love
And the blessings that hallow our days. [Refrain]

May 4, 2025

Fri, 02 May 2025 14:15:41 GMT

Finding Hope on the Road to Emmaus

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

May 4, 2025

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30-12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

~Gathering~

Prelude : "Fairest Lord Jesus" - arr. Cindy Berry

Welcome& Announcements

MCC Comfort and Hygiene Kit Dedication

Focus Statement:

Jesus told his disciples of his betrayal, death on the cross, and that he would rise again on the third day. They heard the words, but when the reality of these events happened, they fled, hid in fear of what may happen next, and lost hope in what they thought the Messiah would do to restore God’s kingdom. They needed to see Jesus Christ, in his scarred, resurrected body, to again find the hope and peace that only he can bring. As followers of Christ, there are times when we face trials, loss, and difficult things that can cause us to become fearful, weary, and lack hope in believing God’s promises in his word. How can we see and experience the resurrected Christ in our lives today? What brings you hope, to carry on in your journey of faith?

Time of Meditation : "Trust and Obey" - arr. Lloyd Larson

Call to Worship:

Leader: We need your presence on the long road, Lord.
People: The road between fear and hope, the road between

the place where all is lost and the place of

resurrection.
Leader: Like the disciples walking the road to Emmaus, we are

in need of your company!
All: Jesus, stand among us, in your risen power, let this

time of worship, be a hallowed hour.

Invocation

Hymns of Gathering: HWB 13 Blessed Jesus at Your Word

~Praying & Praising~

Psalm Reading: Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19

Leader: I love the Lord, for he heard my voice; he heard my

cry for mercy.

People: Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as

long as I live.

Leader: The cords of death entangled me, the anguish of the

grave came over me; I was overcome by distress and

sorrow.

All: Then I called on the name of the Lord: “Lord, save

me!”

People: What shall I return to the Lord for all his goodness to

me?

Leader: I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name

of the Lord.

People: I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of

all his people.

Leader: Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his

faithful servants .

All: Truly I am your servant, Lord; I serve you just as my

mother did; you have freed me from my chains.

People: I will sacrifice a thank offering to you and call on the

name of the Lord.

Leader: I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all

his people, in the courts of the house of the Lord—in

your midst, Jerusalem.

All: Praise the Lord.

Hymn of Praise: HWB 46 – “I sing the mighty power of God”

Prayers of the People

Hymn of Praise : HWB 71 Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Luke 24: 13-35

Message: “Hope Restored”

~Responding~

Hymn of Response: HWB 594 Lord, You Sometimes Speak

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: VT 810 Go My Friends in Grace

Benediction

Postlude : "Be Still, My Soul" - arr. Lloyd Larson

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Helene Torgler

Usher: Monk Yoder

In conjunction with our Anabaptist at Five Hundred celebration this year, we would love to have pictures of any community, service and/or peace experiences our church members have experienced over the years. Please give to April or Tabby who will scan them into the computer. You will get them back!

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Bruce Stauffer: It is great to see Laura Kaufman here today and for my grandchildren to help decorate.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Mike Gehman: Ken is having his 3 ^rd brain surgery on May 8 ^th .

Bertie Showers: Lost both brother Ken and sister Wanda, Had services in Lebanon OH.

Dan Hostetler: Mom JoAnn in the hospital with pneumonia, and Amy’s Mom Dolores fell, but is back home and doing OK.

Tabby Murphy: Bill Flinner has been admitted to Pomerene Hospital. He was dehydrated and has a UTI, he also hasn't been feeling well for a while.

THIS WEEK

May 1 ^st Happy Anniversary, Herb & Helene Torgler

May 5 ^th Happy Birthday, Bruce Stauffer

May 8 ^th Happy Birthday, Linda Yoder

May 11 ^th Happy Birthday, Herb Torgler

Mother’s Day

NEXT WEEK

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: April Shupe

Head Usher: Monk Yoder

LAST WEEK

Maundy Thursday Attendance: 25

Sonrise Service Attendance: 41

Easter Service Attendance: 31

Offering: $2006

Change for a dollar: $7

Cabin (Release Time): $50

Celebration of life for Julia Gerber Attendance: 92

Dinner after celebration of life service: 72

Offering: $495

Easter Flowers: $31.95

Cabin (Release Time): $100

About the Cover Art:

"Road to Emmaus" by Robert Zünd (1826-1909). He was a painter who lived through the Industrial Revolution and into the 20th Century, but you wouldn't know it by looking at his paintings. They are all serene landscapes, with no machines, arranged in classical composition theory, a style harkening to the century before his. As he got older, he became more religious, and wove Biblical themes into his landscapes. Note how Zund has Jesus pointing to the light! Walk with us, Jesus! Teach us!

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website : http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

April 27, 2025

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 18:34:07 GMT

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

April 27, 2025

11 AM

Celebration of Life Service – Julia B. Gerber

“If With All Your Hearts You Truly Seek Me”

(Julie’s service and statement of faith for us)

PRELUDES:

“Holy, Holy, Holy” -arr. Lloyd Larsen

“ I Will Come to You in the Silence” -David Haas, arr. Mark Hayes

1. I will come to you in the silence, I will lift you from all your fear.

You will hear my voice; I claim you as my choice, be still and know I am here.

2. I am hope for all who are hopeless. I am eyes for all who long to see. In the shadows of the night I will be your light, come and rest in me…

3. I am strength for all the despairing, healing for the ones who dwell in shame. All the blind will see, the lame will all run free, and all will know my name.

4. I am the Word that leads all to freedom, I am the peace the world cannot give, I will call your name, embracing all your pain, stand up, now walk and live!

Refrain: Do not be afraid, I am with you. I have called you each by name. Come and follow me, I will bring you home: I love you and you are mine.

“Shepherd Me, O God” -Marty Haugen, arr. Mark Hayes

Shepherd me O God, beyond my wants, beyond my fears, from death into life.

“If With All Your Hearts You Truly Seek Me”

-Feliz Mendelsohn, arr. Lani Smith

If with all your hearts you truly seek me, you shall ever truly find me, thus saith our God.

WELCOME AND READING OF OBITUARY

FOCUS STATEMENT:

In essence, this service was planned by Julie for us as the final expression of her faith and the truths she learned and tried to practice in her life. The music and Scriptures in this service were chosen by her. There will be an opportunity for us to share our memories and thoughts after the meal in the Fellowship Hall downstairs.

PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING:

“The Heavens Are Telling” (from The Creation)

– Franz Josef Haydn, arr. Ellen Lorenz

The heavens are telling the glory of God.

Scripture: Psalm 84:1-4, 10-12

Opening Prayer

Hymns: HWB 65 Praise My Soul, the King of Heaven v 1,2,3

HWB 438 I Sing with Exultation v1,2

Prayer of Thanksgiving: Praise to God, Immortal Praise (HWB 91)

Hymn: HWB 76 Praise, I Will Praise You Lord v1,3

Scripture: Psalm 139:1-6, 23

ASSURANCE OF GOD’S PRESENCE:

Piano Solo: “He, Watching Over Israel” – Felix Mendelssohn, arr. Jan Sanborn

He, watching over Israel slumbers not, nor sleeps.

Scriptures: Psalm 63:1

Psalm 121

Psalm 27:1-5, 14

Hymn: HWB 395 Here I Am, Lord -arr. Jack Schrader

Scripture: John 15:9-14, 16-17

Hymns: HWB 589 My Shepherd Will Supply My Need v 1,3

HWB 145 There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy v1,3,4

HWB 577 O Love That Will Not Let Me Go v. 1

WALKING IN FAITH:

Scriptures: Psalm 116:12

Psalm 34: 1-4

Isaiah 43:1-3,5

Piano Solo: “Precious Lord, Take My Hand” – Thomas A. Dorsey, arr. Emily Lund

Hymn: VT 653 Nothing Is Lost on the Breath of God

EMBRACING LIFE AND DEATH:

Scriptures: 2 Corinthians 4:18

John 4:11-21

Hymns: HWB 459 I Come with Joy v1,4

HWB 590 My Life Flows On v1,4

BENEDICTION AND POSTLUDES:

Scripture: Psalm 31:5

Hymn: HWB 352 Gentle Shepherd

Piano Solo: “Gaelic Benediction” - John Rutter

“Deep peace of the running wave to you,

deep peace of the flowing air to you.

Deep peace of the quiet earth to you,

deep peace of the shining stars to you,

deep peace of the gentle night to you,

moon and stars pour their healing light on you.

Deep peace of Christ, of Christ the light of the world to you,

deep peace of Christ to you.”

Closing Prayer / Benediction

Hymn of Sending: HWB 427 You Shall Go Out With Joy

Ringing of the Bells

Dismissal to the Fellowship Hall

Guest Organist: G. Randall Gibbs

Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer

Song Leader: April Shupe

Worship Leader: Pastor Mike Gehman

Readers: Nancy Yoder, Candy Beaber, Bruce Stauffer, Kim Sherer, Jon Gerber, Megan Stauffer-Miller, Jeptha Hostetler, Myrna Jaberg, Pong Sixiengmay, Joyce Hostetler, Bob Gerber, Amy Stauffer-McNutt, Hope Scott, Mike Keim, Tia Slentz

Please stay for lunch, served around 12:15 in the fellowship hall following the

service today---all are invited to eat, share stories and continue to celebrate the

life of Julie .

The banner hanging at the front of the sanctuary was designed by Megan

Stauffer-Miller and created by Dotti Schrock in 1998 when the women of First

Mennonite, Sugarcreek, were in charge of the Women's Retreat at Camp

Friedenswald. Julie was one of the committee members to plan the retreat and

helped to choose the theme, "I Come with Joy to Meet My Lord," which was one of

her favorite hymns.

“A Flow’r Remembered

By John Rutter

A flow’r remembered can never wither:

forever blooming as bright as day,

Its fragrance ling’ring like music softly playing,

a gentle voice that’s saying ’ll never fade away.’

I hear the echoes of many voices;

Sometimes they’re distant, sometimes so clear;

through all the sounds of life they seem to whisper,

Will you remember, will you remember, will you remember?

The birds fly homeward across my valley

toward the mountains all white with snow;

the birds are gone now, the mountain snows have melted,

but still I see their beauty, those scenes of long ago.

The birds still fly in other valleys;

the snows have turned to flowing streams;

All things must pass, but memories are lasting;

we will remember, we will remember, we will rem

April 20, 2025

Sat, 19 Apr 2025 16:59:10 GMT

Easter Sunday

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

April 20, 2025

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30-12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Resurrection Sunday:

Christ Collides With Death

~Gathering~

Prelude : “What Wondrous Love Is This” -arr. Mark Hayes

Welcome& Announcements

Focus Statement:

Resurrection Sunday stands out as the single most influential event that has ever affected humanity. It is a game changer of epic proportions. The impact of Christ’s collision with death will be felt throughout eternity. It has redefined death and life as we knew and will ever know it. With Christ’s resurrection, with his collision with death, death was defeated once and for all. Eternal life is now a possibility for all. Alleluia!

Time of Meditation : “Come, Ye Faithful, Raise the Strain”

–arr. Eugene Butler

Call to Worship:

One: The stone is rolled away!

Many: Why look for the living among the dead?

One: Alleluia! Christ is risen!

Many: Christ is risen indeed! Alleluia!

One: No nonsense here! Christ collides with death,

affecting the universe.

Many: Christ collides with death, affecting each of us.

One: Alleluia! Christ is risen!

All: Christ is risen indeed! Alleluia!

Invocation

Hymns of Praise:

HWB 280 Christ the Lord Is Ris’n Today

HWB 275 Lift Your Glad Voices

~Praying & Praising~

Prayers of the People

Hymn of Praise : HWB 264 Come Ye Faithful, Raise the Strain

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Luke 24:1-12

Hymn: HWB 269 Thine Is the Glory

Message: “Remembering His Words”

~Responding~

Prayer of Confession and Words of Assurance:

All: Loving and merciful God, we confess that we have

sinned against you.

Leader: We have not loved you with all our thoughts, words,

and actions.

People: We have sinned through what we have chosen to

do and what we have chosen to neglect.

Leader: We have not fully accepted your love for us. We

have not loved our neighbors as ourselves.

People: We linger in the shadows of fear and death, afraid to

fully embrace the love you showed us through the

resurrection.

All: We repent before each other and before you, our loving

God. Please help us open our hearts to your love. Help

us fully live in the love you showed us in Jesus’ death

and resurrection so we may better share your peace in

your world, rejoicing in your name. Amen.

Hymn of Response:

HWB 274 O Sons and Daughters, Let Us Sing!

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: HWB 281 That Easter Day with Joy Was Bright

Benediction

Postlude : “The Risen Lord” –arr. Eugene Butler

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Bruce Stauffer

Usher: Herb Torgler

Lentin-Easter Theme 2025: Christ Collides

Our Lentin theme this year has challenged us and hopefully moved us closer to becoming more like Jesus. The center of our visual is the cross, which reminds us both of the many ways that Christ collides with our lives and of Christ’s transforming power.

Today, as we remove the symbols which represent how Christ collides with us and our world—bias, condemnation, priorities, selfishness, blinders and expectations—let it be a powerful reminder that Jesus resurrection power is available to us. Christ’s collision with death can transform our thoughts and actions so that we can fully live in the love God showed us in Jesus’ death and resurrection. In resurrection hope, go forth, growing love and peace wherever you go! These words from one of our beloved Easter hymns say it best:

Soar we now where Christ has led, foll’wing our exalted Head.

Made like him, like him we rise, ours the cross, the grave, the skies.

King of glory, soul of bliss, everlasting life is this:

Thee to know thy pow’r to prove, thus to sing, and thus to love:

Alleluia!

In conjunction with our Anabaptist at Five Hundred celebration this year, we would love to have pictures of any community, service and/or peace experiences our church members have experienced over the years. Please give to April or Tabby who will scan them into the computer. You will get them back!

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project April: Garaway Released Time Offering

The Garaway School District offers a released time program, also known as "Cabin" allowing students in grades K-12 to attend religious instruction during the school day with parental approval, a program that has been in place for 60 years.

Please note that next Sunday, April 27 ^th , we will NOT be having our usual church service at 9:30; instead, we will be having Julie Gerber’s Celebration of Life in the form of a worship service at 11, with music beginning at 10:45, and a lunch following, in which all are invited to stay and share more stories about Julie.

Easter Flowers: Please check the list by the mailboxes to see how much you owe (small pots = $7.95, large pots = $11.95), and don’t forget to take your flowers home after the service today. Thank you to all who shared flowers to brighten up our Easter service today! Make your check payable to First Mennonite Church, memo flowers.

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Mike Gehman: Dave S. is home now and is thankful for all the prayers.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

April Shupe: We were at the celebration for life for Mom’s sister Wanda Knox; also Mom’s brother Kenny Mast has passed away.

Tabatha Murphy: Uncle Bill had to postpone his surgery due to being sick.

THIS WEEK

April 24 ^th Happy Birthday, Mary Meyer

UPCOMING EVENTS

April 27 ^th Celebration of Life for Julie Gerber, 11 AM

(No regular morning service)

NEXT WEEK

Minister and Worship Leader: Mike Gehman

Head Usher: Herb Torgler

LAST WEEK

ATTENDANCE: 24

OFFERING: $1215

Change for a dollar: $14

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website : http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Sonrise Service

Sat, 19 Apr 2025 16:56:06 GMT

Easter Sonrise Service

April 20, 2025

“Morning Has Broken”

-sung by April Shupe

Opening Words:

WL: Morning has broken, but this morning is different.

Women: The birds are singing tunes of joy in the trees surrounding

the graves.

Men: The flower buds are bursting in colors vibrant around each stone.

WL: We've come to visit the grave of a friend, but "he is not

here."

Women: The Sun is rising in the East; the shadowed grays turn bright!

Men: The Son is risen in our Hearts; darkness and death end in defeat.

WL: Now we understand what Christ said, what God did.

Now we can proclaim, Christ is risen!

People: Christ is risen indeed!

ALL: CHRIST IS RISEN! HALLELUJAH!

Hymn: Low in the Grave He Lay

The Story:

John 20: 1-10 - Brad Shupe

John 20: 11-18 – April Shupe

Comments

Hymn: Victory in Jesus

Prayer

Assurance of Pardon

Leader: The tomb is empty. The stone is rolled away. There is no

darkness now, only light. God continues to renew us

and restore us.

All: We are forgiven, loved and restored, receiving the gift

and promise of new life and resurrection now and forever

more, AMEN!

Sending Prayer:

Leader: Risen Christ, you have given yourself to us.

People: Now we give ourselves to others.

Leader: As people who live in a Good Friday world with Easter faith,

we celebrate as we now eat together.

People: You have raised us with Christ and made us a new people.

As people of the resurrection, we will serve you with joy.

Leader: Bless this meal as we share in this resurrection celebration.

All: Alleluia!

Easter Breakfast

Easter Morning Service Begins at 10 am

In the Sanctuary

Maundy Thursday

Sat, 19 Apr 2025 16:54:36 GMT

Meal and Communion Service

April 17, 2025

~Gathering~

Prelude: “Alas and Did My Savior Bleed” -arr. Patti Drennan

Welcome and Announcements

Hymn: VT 564 What Wondrous Love Is This

Call to Worship and Handwashing

Invocation

Scripture Reading: John 12: 1-11

Meditation

Anointing of Hands

~Gathering at His Table~

The Lord’s Supper and the Lord’s Prayer

Words of Invitation

Prayer of Blessing Over the Elements

Words of Remembrance and Receiving the Elements

Prayer of Thanksgiving and Lord’s Prayer:

Pastor: We give You the thanks, Blessing God, for this holy meal. In the

bread that has been broken, we have seen our oneness with each

other and You. Through the cup that has been poured and shared,

we have tasted your goodness. With our hunger for You felled and

our thirst for You eased, we take on your command to be bread and

cup for the world. We pray as you taught us…

ALL: Our Father, who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy Name. Thy

kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give

us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we

forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver

us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the

glory, forever and ever. Amen.

~The Service of Tenebrae~

Scriptures:

1. The Shadow of Betrayal: Matthew 26:20-25

2. The Shadow of Desertion: Matthew 26:31-35

3. The Agony of the Soul: Luke 22:39-44

Hymn: Were You There v.1

4. Unshared Vigil: Mark 14:32-41

5. Father, the hour has come: John 17:1-6

6. That they may all be one: John 17:15-22

Hymn: Were You There v.2

7. Arrest in the Garden: John 18:1-5

8. Shadow of the Cross: Mark 15:16-20

Hymn: Were You There v.5

9. Final Reading: John 1:1-4, 14

Reflection in Silence

Postlude: “O Sacred Head Now Wounded” -arr. Mark Hayes

Thank you to all who helped with tonight’s service:

Pastor - Mike Gehman,

Worship Leader - Nancy Yoder

Pianist – Suzanne Stauffer

Song Leader – April Shupe

Readers - Reno Stevanus, Hannah Gehman, Helene Torgler, Bob Gerber, Kristy Keim, Bruce Stauffer, April Shupe, Tabby Murphy, Mike Keim, Bertie Showers, and Brad Shupe

Easter Services:

Sonrise Service at 8am in the Fellowship Hall, followed by breakfast

Easter Service at 10 am in the Sanctuary

April 13, 2025

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 19:29:19 GMT

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

April 13, 2025

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30-12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Palm Sunday:

Christ Collides With Our Expectations

~Gathering~

Prelude : "All Glory, Laud, and Honor" - arr. Lloyd Larson

Welcome& Announcements

Focus Statement:

Christ’s reality often collides with our expectations, which are shaped by our past experiences, society, internal desires, hopes and knowledge. They influence how we see things, people and even ourselves. However, sometimes our expectations don’t match reality, which can be confusing, frustrating and disappointing. This is exactly what happened when Christ collided with the expectations of the disciples, Pharisees and the crowd in Jerusalem. How will we react when our expectations are challenged?

Time of Meditation : "The Palms" - Jean Baptiste Faure,

arr. Lawrence Grant

Call to Worship:

Leader: As we worship this Palm Sunday, Christ collides with our

expectations.

People: Have we not collided enough?

Leader: In deep compassion, our Lord sets out a mission of full

life.

People: Form us fully, Jesus.

Leader: “Blessings on the king who comes in the name of the

Lord.

People: Peace in heaven and glory in the highest heavens.”

All: Our Lord, it is time for you to work in and with us as

we worship you!

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: HWB 237 All Glory, Laud and Honor

~Praying & Praising~

Prayers of the People

Hymn of Praise : HWB 68 O Come, Loud Anthems Let Us Sing

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Luke 19:29-44

Hymn: HWB 238 Hosanna, Loud Hosanna

Message: “What Are Your Expectations?”

~Responding~

Prayer of Confession and Words of Assurance:

All: Loving and merciful God, we confess that we have

sinned against you.

Leader: We have not loved you with all our thoughts, words,

and actions.

People: We have sinned through what we have chosen to

do and what we have chosen to neglect.

Leader: We have not fully accepted your love for us. We

have not loved our neighbors as ourselves.

People: We cling to our expectations, and we do not make space

for you to challenge them.

All: We repent before each other and before you, our loving

God. Please help us open our hearts to your love. Help

us let go of our narrow expectations so we may better

share your peace in your world, rejoicing in your

name. Amen.

Hymn of Response: HWB 405 Where Cross the Crowded Ways

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: HWB 239 Ride On, Ride On in Majesty

Benediction

Leader: Love God, you who are God’s holy people,

People: for God’s love endures forever.

Leader: Praise God, and give thanks.

People: for God’s love endures forever.

Leader: Expect God, and welcome God’s grace,

All: for God’s love endures forever.

Postlude : "Ride on, King Jesus" - arr. Lloyd Larson

Sending Words

WORSHIP 9:30-10:30

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Kristy Keim

Usher: Herb Torgler

Lentin Theme 2025: Christ Collides

This year, we are using many of the parables that Jesus shared in his

ministry. It has been said that the origin of the word parable is two

things that collide, and if you, upon hearing a parable, do not feel the

impact of the collision, you are probably missing something. In many

parables, Jesus throws a surprise beside or in comparison with

something else. Each week’s texts offer a glimpse into how the

content of his teachings collides with us and our world. The visuals

on the altar serve as a reminder of our collisions each Sunday:

Lent 1: Bias – Optical illusion of the name, “Jesus,” which reminds us

to keep our focus on Jesus to transform our thoughts and

actions.

Lent 2: Condemnation – Fig Tree and a gavel; the fig tree is

incapable of healing itself and incapable of self-justification,

while the gavel reminds us it is not our job to condemn

others.

Lent 3: Priorities – A clock, cell phone and TV remote; how are we

spending our time? How might realigning our priorities

with Christ shape our community of faith?

Lent 4: Selfishness ---Treasure Chest filled with coins; reminds us

to loosen our grip on what we have and challenge the

selfishness of our society with open hands.

Lent 5: Blinders --- A horse collar with blinders attached, and

hanging on the cross, a sleep mask; What do our blinders

keep us from seeing? What blinders must we remove to

receive a clear understanding of truth, faith, and

compassion?

Palm Sunday: A crown --- reminds us that Christ’s reality often

collides with our expectations, as it did with the Jerusalem

crowd and even Jesus’ disciples, who expected him to

become a king who would put an end to Roman rule.

Christ’s reality will surprise us, collide with us and

transform our thinking into kingdom living.

In conjunction with our Anabaptist at Five Hundred celebration this year, we would love to have pictures of any community, service and/or peace experiences our church members have experienced over the years. Please give to April or Tabby who will scan them into the computer. You will get them back!

FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER

Mission Project April: Garaway Released Time Offering

Maundy Thursday Supper and Communion Service, Thursday April 17 ^th at 6 pm— Bring a quart of vegetable soup to add to the common pot and join us for a light supper, followed by a communion service in the Fellowship Hall.

Easter Sonrise Service will begin at 8 am in the Fellowship Hall, followed by breakfast. The Easter Service will begin in the sanctuary at 10 am. Invite your family and friends!

Please note that on April 27 ^th , we will not be having our usual church service at 9:30; instead, we will be having Julie Gerber’s Celebration of Life in the form of a worship service at 11, with music beginning at 10:45, and a lunch following, in which all are invited to stay and share more stories about Julie.

THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS

Tabatha Murphy: After 10 years the doctors have found the problem to some of my health issues and may be able to fix it.

Melanie Blauch Archer: Thankful for all the prayers for Dave, also thankful for the card from Sue and Bruce .

Sue Stauffer: All 24 comforters are done being knotted.

THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR

Bertie Showers: Sister’s funeral service will be this Saturday at 11 am. Also, brother Ken is not doing well, he has developed pneumonia. Update: Ken passed away on Thursday. Please keep the Mast family in your prayers.

Dan Hostetler: College roommate Randy is in the hospital having surgery on his kidneys and is not doing well.

Nancy Yoder: Roman Yoder fell breaking 6 ribs and is now in rehab.

THIS WEEK

April 17 ^th Maundy Thursday Supper and Communion Service, 5:30

April 18 ^th Happy Birthday, Wayne Schrock

April 20 ^th Sonrise Service 8 am, followed by breakfast

Easter Service 10 am

UPCOMING EVENTS

April 27 ^th Celebration of Life for Julie Gerber, 11 AM

(No regular morning service)

NEXT WEEK

Text for Easter Sunday: Luke 24: 1-12

Minister: Mike Gehman

Worship Leader: Bruce Stauffer

Head Usher: Herb Torgler

LAST WEEK

ATTENDANCE: 25

OFFERING: $1178

Change for a dollar: $7

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy

Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822

Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com

Website : http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org

Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Chairperson: Mike Keim

Office Contact: Linda Yoder

Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus

Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler
Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

April 6, 2025

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 13:56:22 GMT

First Mennonite Church

Sugarcreek, Ohio

April 6, 2025

Worship: 9:30 – 10:30

Fellowship Time: 10:30-12:00

We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection

as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim.

***************************************

We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body

of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service.

******************************************

We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world

through our prophetic witness and action.

THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER

Lent Five:

Christ Collides With Our Blinders

~Gathering~

Prelude : "Love Divine, All Loves Excelling"

- arr. Larry Shackley

Welcome& Announcements

Focus Statement:

Blinders can be a hindrance to our perception and judgment. They can restrict our view and obscure the complete picture of a

situation. In the book of Luke, we find three narratives, each depicting an encounter between Jesus and individuals or groups with blinders. These stories highlight the significance of recognizing our blinders and removing them to attain a clear understanding of truth, faith, and compassion. What do our blinders keep us from seeing?

Time of Meditation : "Open My Eyes, That I May See"

- arr. Larry Shackley

Call to Worship:

Leader: As we worship, Christ collides with our blinders.

People: We want to know you and follow you, O Christ.

Leader: Will you cry to God? Will you climb a tree?

People: We will journey, scanning the horizon for signs of

the kingdom. So much is hidden, and at times we

do not grasp what God is saying.

Leader: Jesus, show us mercy.

People: Seek and save us.

All: Jesus, show us mercy.

Invocation

Hymn of Gathering: VT 10 Here In This Place

~Praying & Praising~

Prayers of the People

Hymn of Praise : VT 411 All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name

~Hearing God’s Word~

Scripture: Luke 18:31-34, 35-43; 19:1-10

Readers---Mike Keim, Kristy Keim, Brad Shupe

Message: “Blinders: What prevents you from seeing Jesus?”

~Responding~

Prayer of Confession and Words of Assurance:

All: Loving and merciful God, we confess that we have

sinned against you.

Leader: We have not loved you with all our thoughts, words,

and actions.

People: We have sinned through what we have chosen to

do and what we have chosen to neglect.

Leader: We have not fully accepted your love for us. We

have not loved our neighbors as ourselves.

People: We walk through our days with blinders on, unable to

see and understand clearly.

All: We repent before each other and before you, our loving

God. Please help us open our hearts to your love. Help

us walk with open eyes and hearts so we may better

share your peace in your world, rejoicing in your

name. Amen.

Hymn of Response: VT 738 Open My Eyes That I May See

Offering Prayer

~Sending~

Sending Hymn: HWB 545 Be Thou My Vision

Benediction

Postlude : "I Want Jesus to Walk with Me" - arr. Mary McDonald