March 29, 2026
March 27, 2026
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
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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
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
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
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” 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. 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
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” 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. 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
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” 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. 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
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” 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. 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 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. 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
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” 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 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
