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Welcome...... 4 Shared Expectations for Convention Attendees ...... 5 MennoCon21 COVID 19 Protocols...... 5 Maps...... 6 Tuesday Schedule ...... 14 Wednesday Schedule ...... 16 Thursday Schedule ...... 24 Friday Schedule ...... 30 Saturday Schedule ...... 38 Worship Speakers ...... 42 Worship Team ...... 43 Thank Yous ...... 44 Offerings ...... 44
Scott Hartman Shana Peachey Boshart Sarah Chase
Welcome to MennoCon21! Planning this convention has been an adventure, as the planning team did not have any experience planning a convention amid a pandemic. We have had to be flexible, not knowing what protocols would look like from week to week, and we have needed to make many changes to our plans throughout this process. We ask for God’s grace when things don’t go as planned.
The purpose of convention is to gather Mennonite Church USA (MC USA) congregants and organizations for community, worship and faith formation. This week, we are a family that has come together from the various parts of MC USA. With a smaller number of people gathering in person, this convention will feel more intimate and personal. We have put together worship services that will inspire you and seminars that will equip you. This program book contains quick-glance schedules, as well as detailed descriptions of all the seminars.
We, the convention planning staff, encourage you to have fun this week, meet new friends and seek the peace of God that passes all understanding. Dear #MennoCon21 registrants, I want to welcome each of you to #MennoCon21. It’s an exciting time for Mennonite Church USA (MC USA), as we come out of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a denomination, we continue to grow and adapt, always remaining adaptable, motivated and responsive to the needs of our members and the communities we inhabit.
Our church is confronting many changes, and we’re meeting these changes during a time of larger national and global change. The intersection of our Anabaptist faith traditions and our theological diversity is an exciting challenge that we must face head-on. We’ll continue to meet and bring inspired people together in forums like this to ensure our denomination remains strong and has a bright future.
Due to the pandemic, we’re transforming the way we operate to continuously improve our ability to gather as the body of Christ. Our staff and partners have continued to meet the challenges of holding a convention; they have excelled, despite many setbacks. We should all be thankful for the opportunity to gather in person and virtually.
Before I close, I’d like to thank each of you for attending our convention and bringing your energy to our gathering. As leaders, delegates, members, family and friends, you are a crucial part of keeping the vision of MC USA alive. You bring the wherewithal, the faith and the experience needed to help us pave our way into the future. You are truly our greatest asset today and tomorrow, and we could not accomplish what we do without your support and participation. You are MC USA. Throughout this conference, I ask you to stay engaged, stay prayerful and help us shape the future of MC USA.
Thank you, and may God’s grace abide in us all.
Glen Guyton, executive director, Mennonite Church USA
4 General Information
Shared expectations for convention MennoCon21 COVID-19 protocols (as of June 4) attendees The Duke Energy Convention Center requires that its As planners, we want convention to be safe and staff and vendors adhere to a thorough set of protocols enjoyable for all our attendees, and we are counting that include temperature checks, masks and rigorous on you to help make this possible. While we may not cleaning standards. The Duke Energy Convention always agree with one another, we should always treat Center was the first organization in the Ohio Region each other with respect. In order to make convention a to obtain the GBAC STAR™ Accreditation. Under positive experience for everyone, here are some of our the guidance of the Global Biorisk Advisory Council expectations for all convention attendees: (GBAC), a division of ISSA, the worldwide cleaning • Convention attendees should not engage in industry association, Duke Energy Convention Center language or behavior that threatens the safety or has implemented the most stringent protocols for personhood of another convention attendee. This cleaning, disinfection and infectious disease prevention includes racist speech, hate speech, threats, sexual in its facility. As the cleaning industry’s only outbreak harassment and any other behaviors that could prevention, response and recovery accreditation, GBAC be understood as threatening. If you experience STAR™ helps organizations establish protocols and language or behaviors like this at convention, please procedures, offers expert-led training, and assesses report the offender to the convention office. a facility’s readiness for bio-risk situations. The • Blocking of hallways, fire exits and means of egress program verifies that Duke Energy Convention Center is prohibited at all times. Gatherings that, in any implements best practices to prepare for, respond to way, violate fire code regulations will be dispersed. and recover from outbreaks and pandemics. • No literature (fliers, brochures, handouts, books, etc.) may be passed out beyond the exhibit hall Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and area. However, seminar and workshop leaders the state of Ohio guidance, masks and social distancing may distribute handouts, as necessary, during their are no longer mandatory. However, attendees are free to session. wear a mask and continue to social distance from other • No promotional materials may be hung on participants, if they wish. Anyone not fully vaccinated is convention center walls without the written encouraged to wear a mask. approval of MC USA convention planning. This includes posters, postcards, pictures, etc. The worship hall will be set up in two sections. The • Disagreements should be resolved peacefully. In section closest to the stage will be for individuals any and all disagreements, we ask that you treat and groups that are comfortable sitting closer to one your conversation partners with the respect they another. The back of the room will be for individuals deserve as beloved children of God. and groups that would like to continue practicing social • Respect the instructions of the convention distancing. Feel free to block seats to provide extra planning staff and volunteers on-site. We are here space around you or your group. to serve you and to help make convention a good experience for everyone in attendance. If you have Seminar rooms will not be filled to full capacity. To a disagreement or complaint about the behavior practice social distancing during seminars, block off of any staff or volunteers, please come to the chairs with an article of clothing or another marker. convention planning office to report this behavior. • All protocols and procedures related to COVID-19 Meal functions will follow the guidelines set forth by will be observed throughout the event. We are local, state, federal officials and agencies, the CDC, following local and national guidance for these and support and recommendations from Spectra and protocols and procedures. This is one way we can industry organizations. These guidelines allow for practice mutual aid. banquet seating of up to 10 chairs per table. Meals will be buffet style. 5 RECREATION
6 LUNCH
DIRECTION TO HOTELS
7 SEMINARS
CONVENTION OFFICE INFORMATION BOOTH
8 SEMINARS DIRECTION TO HOTELS
INFORMATION BOOTH
9 10 WORSHIP
SEMINARS
DIRECTION TO HOTELS E L M S T R E E T ork vice Notes: ch USA e e e orld information contained on this floor plan. However, no warranties, either expressed or implied are made with respect to this floor plan. components of the facility is a consideration in the construction of an exhibit, it is the sole responsibility of the exhibitor to physically inspect the facility to verify all dimensions and locations. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all If the location of building columns, utilities or other architectural n Mennonite istian Olive Art istian Olive fton University lical Seminary ency Wtools erence University Mennonite Disaster Ser Anabaptist W Chr Hesston Colleg Easter Bluf Bethel Colleg Goshen Colleg Anabaptist Mennonite Bib Mennonite Education Ag Ev Mennonite Mission Netw Mennonite Chur Mennonite Camping Association RA
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UP LEGEND Show Acronym or Name: Show Date: Facility Name: Facility City, State: Show Room Location: July 6-9, 2021 Cincinnati, OH 5th Street & Elm Street Lobby Area Mennonite Church USA Convention 2021 Duke Energy Convention Center UP
5TH STREET DIRECTION TO HOTELS 6/11/2021 12:50:52 PM 12:50:52 6/11/2021 EXHIBIT HALL EXHIBIT
NONVIOLENT HOW DIRECT ACTION CREATES CHANGE STIR UP PEACE
Watch the nine short episodes with a church group or binge at home. MennoniteMission.net/stir
MENNONITE MISSION NETWORK PRESENTS A SERIES CREATED BY SARAH & JONATHAN NAHAR PRODUCED BY FAITH BELL • JASON BOONE • TRAVIS DUERKSEN • DAVID FAST SARAH & JONATHAN NAHAR Cincinnati At A Glance
TUESDAY, JULY 6, 2021
7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Worship - Peace from Roots to Fruits Grand Ballroom
8:30 - 10:00 p.m. Exhibits Open 5th St Concourse Recreation Open
Journey Forward MC USA Study
Journey Forward is a churchwide renewal process of engaging in scripture, storytelling and sharing how God is at work in the lives of people and congregations across Mennonite Church USA (MC USA). To inform the direction of MC USA, we have partnered with Springtide Research Institute to conduct a comprehensive membership survey and focus groups to ensure that your voices are heard in this process. The survey and focus groups are steps in gathering stories from around the denomination. Springtide will be joining us throughout the conference to offer you opportunities to take the survey and share your thoughts so that we may gain a deeper understanding about you and your experiences as part of MC USA. Please see the Springtide counter next to the Information Booth to sign up to participate in one of the focus groups being offered throughout the conference and to grab the link to the survey. The survey will take approximately 20-30 minutes to complete. Focus groups will be offered during morning seminars and during the afternoon of Thursday, July 8. We truly value your voices and need to hear what you have to say in order to Journey Forward together.
14 is inExhibit HallB. the convention center. recreation The inthe recreation hall.Exhibits are inthe mainlobby of some energy Visit the exhibits orburn 8:30 –10:00p.m. Exhibits andRecreation Open Grand Ballroom Lesley Francisco McClendon andCaleb McClendon 7:00 –8:30p.m. Peace From RootstoFruits Worship Tuesday, July 6 AMBS DID YOUKNOW? ambs.edu/academics OUTFIND MORE: grants matching financial aid, scholarships and • in TheologicalCertificate Studies Graduate and Anabaptism; andMA: Theology Global such as our Master of Divinity; • and/or on campus online — are you where study to you allow that options learning • Biblical Seminary, you’ll find: At Anabaptist Mennonite Academic programs and lifelong lifelong and programs Academic Generous need-based need-based Generous Distance-friendly programs •Elkhart, Indiana norgn n rbn h id fpeople who simply just want to live victoriously.encouraging andprobingthe mindsof mid-life crisis isher sweet spot.Caleb’s ismore laid-backsimilartomotivational approach inministry speaking, audiences, although she often says that mid-twenties to andloves of gaps speakinggenerational to abroadrange powerful, with their simple, life-altering messages easy to comprehend delivery. Lesley hasapassionforbridging Community andpassion, but aimsto deliver dynamic Church, duoteaches Hampton,Virginia.The with vigor C3–Calvary Lesley Francisco McClendon issenior pastor andCaleb McClendon isassistant pastor of
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Tuesday Schedule Cincinnati At A Glance
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 2021
7:00 a.m. Morning Run Hotel Lobby
Adult Seminars 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. Abuse in Your Church: Who Should Know What, 234 When and How? Adapting the Meaning of a Mennonite College Education 262 Can the Church Be Prophetic and Nonpartisan? 263 Mennonites in Ukraine: “Self-Defense” and Antisemitism 238 Reimagining Our Economic Relationships 236
Youth Seminars 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. Ask Us Anything: A Health Professions Career Roundtable 233 Can I Be a Rich Christian? 232 Dying to Live: Being Young and Changing the World Jr Ballroom C What You Do Next Matters 230/231 When $#@! Happens: What the Bible Says About Pain, Jr Ballroom D Trauma and Us
10:30 - 11:30 a.m. Bible Study With Safwat Marzouk and Voices Together Grand Ballroom
11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Youth Small Groups Convention Center
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Lunch Exhibit Hall A
11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Exhibits Open 5th St Concourse Recreation Open Exhibit Hall B
1:30 - 2:30 p.m. Midday Mixer Grand Ballroom
Adult Seminars 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. Always My Child/Forever My Parent 238 Church Is Not a Building 230/231 (and Your Pastor’s Not the Only Minister) Reading the Bible Through the Lens of Climate Change 236 Stir Up Peace: How Nonviolent Direct Action Creates Change 262
16 Youth Seminars 4:00 - 5:00p.m. Adult Seminars 2:45 - 3:45p.m. Youth Seminars 2:45 - 3:45p.m. Adult Seminars 7:00 - 4:00 - 5:00p.m. 9:00 - 10:30p.m. 9:00 - 10:00p.m. 8:30 - 8:30p.m. 10:00p.m.
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233 238 237 261 262 236 263 Jr BallroomC Jr BallroomD 230/231 232 233 262 263 238 236 Jr BallroomC 230/231 Jr BallroomD 232 Jr BallroomD 230/231 Ex 5th St Grand Ballroom hibit HallB Concourse
Wednesday AT A GLANCE Wednesday, July 7
Morning Run environmental and social problems without aligning itself 7:00 a.m. to a partisan agenda or identity? Should the church remain Hotel lobby nonpartisan? Join others from your hotel for a morning run. Meet in the lobby at 7:00 a.m. and head out in small groups depending on the Mennonites in Ukraine: “Self-Defense” and Antisemitism distance you want to cover that day. John Kampen, professor of Jewish history and New Testament, Methodist Theological School Adult Seminars 238 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. My grandfather was a local leader of the Selbstschutz in Russian Ukraine in 1920. Trained by the German army, these Abuse in Your Church: Who Should Know What, were groups of Mennonites who mobilized to protect their When and How? communities against local violence. This experience reinforced Nancy Kauffmann and Carol Knieriem, and other Dove’s Nest a German identity that led to an ongoing acceptance of board members antisemitic attitudes and propaganda. This seminar will discuss 234 the responsibilities that legacy leaves with us as we confront At some point, most churches will experience an abuse situation antisemitism today. in which either the victim(s) or the offender(s) are a part of the church community. In these situations, church leaders Reimagining Our Economic Relationships tend to struggle primarily with how to communicate about Marlene Kroeker, stewardship consultant at Everence, and the situation to the faith community and respond to concerns. Cyneatha Millsaps, executive director of Mennonite Women Come hear practical input and encouragement from Dove’s Nest USA representatives, who have experience consulting with churches 236 experiencing this type of situation. In this seminar, we will explore our economic relationships in light of our faith. Most often, conversations concerning money Adapting the Meaning of a Mennonite College Education are in regards to how we handle it, whether we spend too much, Breanna J. Nickel, teaching fellow in the Augustana College save too little, have too much or do not have enough. Instead, religion department and Goshen College graduate we will focus on the relationships we have with others through 262 our finances. Through biblical study and conversation, we will In this seminar we will explore the meaning of denominational- consider and re-imagine our economic relationships. based college education. The seminar will include stories about church-college relations in the last century, but the main subject Youth Seminars is the recent approach of U.S. Mennonite colleges. Questions 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. include: 1) How has Mennonite education changed over time? 2) How do colleges embody a denominational identity? 3) What Ask Us Anything: A Health Professions Career Roundtable makes a beneficial church-college relationship? and 4) How Clair Hochstetler and other members of Mennonite Healthcare will college missions keep changing in light of growing non- Fellowship Mennonite student bodies? 233 Participants interested or involved in health careers are invited Can the Church Be Prophetic and Nonpartisan? to share their experience and explorations, with an emphasis Ryan Ahlgrim, pastor, First Mennonite Church of Richmond on how faith may guide vocational discernment in the healing (Virginia) professions. 263 During this time of hyper-partisanship in the U.S., congregations are finding it difficult to be politically nonpartisan. Can the church speak boldly about our society’s political, economic,
18 studying 1Samuel 20 and Judges 11. key themes —family conflict, identity and loss— through life. We’ll focus onthree the toughest aspects of with some of either! Inthis seminar, youth will lookat how Scripture deals Life canbe really tough the ...andreading Bible isnopicnic Jr BallroomD Mennonite Biblical Seminary biblical studies, Anabaptist Susannah Larry, assistant professor of Trauma andUs When $#@!Happens: What theBible Says About Pain, high school. available andschools after to them through Mennonite programs space, where youth canhear about the many possibilities could you doduringthat year? Ouraimisto set upaninviting year,” a“gap andwhat example, what are the advantages of options youth have to connect their faith andvocation. For Wecomes next, after graduation. willtalk about the different seminar will be forhighschoolersThis contemplating what 230/231 Mennonite colleges for Mennonite MissionNetwork, andrepresentatives from andchurch relations representative recruiter FreyEric Martin, What You DoNext Matters the world —through us? Jesus isdying to change really have anything to live if for?What we don’t have anything we’dif die for, then maybe we don’t it’ssomething we love that somuch we’d true if die forit? What usaredying to have many of if thinking? What a wrong way of that’sdiscipleship might cost, it will scare them away. But what if youth hear how much inexperienced. Others fear that if Some adults dismissyouth because they’re too young ortoo Jr BallroomC ministry, Hesston College Bible andyouth Michele Hershberger, andprofessor author of Dying toLive: Being Young andChangingthe World success when it comes to managingmoney. the key to the Four Financial Fundamentals that are 94.32%of how best to save, spend andshare while following Jesus? Learn do with managingmoney? How doyou make choices about you might be wondering, what does being aChristianhave to to college, you’reWhether your getting first joborheading off 232 Everence Lyle Miller andMitch Stutzman, stewardship consultants, Can IBeaRichChristian?
19 Midday Mixer recreation isinExhibit HallB. the convention center. The areExhibits inthe mainlobby of inthe recreation hall. some energy Visit the exhibits orburn 11:30 a.m. –2:00p.m. Exhibits andRecreation Open Justice Amidst Pandemic andRacism.” Seminary, Indiana,will share onthe topic, Elkhart, “Shalom Old Testament/Hebrew Bible at Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical from MennoMedia. Safwat Marzouk,associate professor of Together, the new Anabaptist hymnal andworship resource Bible study will open with worshipThe selections fromVoices Grand Ballroom Safwat Marzoukand Voices Together 10:30 –11:30a.m. Pandemic, LamentandRepentance Bible Study identities. other, their extended families, their churches andtheir spiritual ways that coming out impacted their relationships with each of LGBTQ children, upon the asthey reflect together multitude as the family itself. sessionwill feature parents andtheir This that child, aswell wellbeing of foundation forthe long-term family. Studies show families provide that accepting anessential surprise, but itwillstill have aprofound impact uponyour that your childLearning isLGBTQmay ormay not be a 238 A panelofparents andtheirLGBTQchildren Always MyChild/Forever MyParent 1:30 –2:30p.m. Adult Seminars Bring any questions that developed duringthe message. interact with the worship speaker from the previous service. midday mixer to will be anopportunity of second part The to know toyouth get fromother congregations. as opportunities aswell middayfor youth. mixerwith The some games will start Worship leader ChrisCox will leadthis time designed specifically Grand Ballroom 1:30 –2:30p.m.
Wednesday Schedule Church Is Not a Building (and Your Pastor’s Not the Only and biology (disease). Over time, a person’s drug of choice Minister) provides identity, purpose, structure for life, and morality — Michele Hershberger, author and professor of Bible and youth all characteristics of a religion. The problem of addiction is ministry, Hesston College complex and includes this religious component, which is too 230/231 often overlooked by professionals. By better understanding the A hidden gift of the COVID-19 pandemic was the rediscovery problem, the church will be uniquely positioned to help those of some biblical truths: Church is not a building, we can and do who suffer. gather at times other than 10 a.m. on Sunday, AND all of us are missionaries. Rediscovering these truths can help breathe new life Anabaptist History Today Storytelling Workshop into our congregations; it can be a conversion experience. But Jason Kauffman, director of Mennonite Church USA archives, how do we help people get there? Join Hesston College’s Center and Jean Kilheffer Hess, executive director of Lancaster for Anabaptist Leadership and Learning (CALL) leaders as they Mennonite Historical Society give guidelines that open the door to this conversion. 236 Join the cocreators of Anabaptist History Today, and discover Reading the Bible Through the Lens of Climate Change how storytelling can enrich our lives together and leave a legacy Jennifer Schrock, leader, Mennonite Creation Care Network for future generations. Participants in this interactive makers’ 236 session will learn more about Anabaptist History Today and You may think the Bible has nothing to say about climate change create a story for the community-built archive. Leaders will because it is a modern problem. But what if we ask, “Was there provide art supplies and question prompts to guide participants ever a time when biblical people could see disaster coming but as they reflect on the connection between their Anabaptist faith felt powerless to stop it?” Suddenly, the whole book is about and lived experiences during the remarkable events of the past climate change! Find hope and nourishing spiritual roots for an year. uncertain future. Biblical Interpretation and Antisemitism Stir Up Peace: How Nonviolent Direct Action Creates Change John Kampen, professor of Jewish history and New Testament, Sharon Norton, Co-director for Africa and Europe, Mennonite Methodist Theological School Mission Network; Jonathan Nahar, former Israel Palestine 262 Partners in Peacemaking Coordinator, MC USA; and The antisemitic impulse of Christian theology has been well Sarah Nahar, PhD student in Religion and Environmental documented. For Anabaptist Mennonites, reading the Bible is Studies a central theological activity. The study of the Bible has been 262 influenced by this same antisemitic impulse. In this seminar, we Following Jesus means seeking God’s Kingdom and will explore how the Mennonite reading of the Bible has been righteousness. But we can’t use violence to do it. It takes deep subject to these influences and some of the particular ways in love, creativity, and faithfulness to commit to seeking change which it is expressed in our own heritage. We will, then, explore nonviolently. Nonviolent direct action is a strategic response to some options as to how to begin addressing this issue. violence, oppression, and injustice that uses tactics that don’t depend on the threat of violence to achieve justice. Find out Conversatorio 1: Re-imaginar, Revitalizar y ser Relevantes how to directly seek change in your community using tactics that Sandra Montes Martinez, associate conference minister, Western carefully consider timing, context, and public perception. This is District Conference also your chance to get a sneak peek at the new video series that 261 goes deeper into the nuts and bolts of nonviolent direct action. Cuando pensamos en la iglesia, generalmente tenemos un marco de ideas que se derivan de nuestras experiencias con las Adult Seminars estructuras eclesiales. Las prácticas y ritos de nuestra comunidad 2:45 – 3:45 p.m. de fe nos dan identidad y nos ayudan a enfocar la misión de la iglesia. Con esta conversación comunitaria reflexionaremos Addiction: What the Church Should Know en como la iglesia asertivamente puede evaluar su trabajo para D.J. Mitchell, author and founder, Healing Refuge Fellowship Revitalizar la comunidad de fe y ser Relevantes en el ministerio 263 de la iglesia en los tiempos que vivimos. This seminar will help participants move their understanding of addiction beyond the conventional models of morality (choice)
20 ge?Ti eia sfradecso any age. seminaris foraudiences of This agree? alongwhen we about getting don’t can we11:17-34. What learn different views about eating together, after hearing 1Corinthians meals when they celebrated the Lord’s Supper. We will role-play Later, heheard about the Corinthians’ church fights — even at missionwork. Corinth, then he left to dofurther in the city of experience. Apostle Paul The planted several house churches learning Group Bible study can be both funand adeep 232 Creating aScene inCorinth Reta Halteman Finger, author of Creating aMealSceneinCorinth: A BibleStudy people likeand hearyou how are ordinary changing the world. Richer, inEcuador with Mennonite MissionNetwork, who serve Joinempowerment. aconversation with Jane andJerrell Ross forcollectivecreating opportunities action andcommunity which the economy, humanrights andthe natural world rides, upon Human impact onthe climate the current haschanged into their own the landandtake hands. conservation live off Zábalo of Cofáninthe village in the Ecuadorian rainforest. The youth whoIndigenous are leading the way with creative solutions “Fear still say. not!” the angels Come hear stories about 233 mission workers Jane andJerrell Ross Richer, Mennonite MissionNetwork Changing theNarrative: Climate What? 2:45 –3:45p.m. Youth Seminars them to singsome selections. emotionally riveting the audience, This inviting seminar engages peace andjustice wherever we live. usto be promoters of all of the humanfamily andencourages he emphasizes the oneness of bringing people together. And,usingpictures fromhistravels, Brown powerful are illustrates how tools for songandstory travels,Using songsandstories fromhisinternational Tony 238 Tony Brown, Hesston College artist-in-residence, Songs andStoriesofPeace, HopeandJustice arborist and Mennonite Men. certified U.S. coordinator of seminar will be led by This Steve restore the earth. Thomas, creation andhow inthis campaign to help you can participate plant one milliontrees. about trees inGod’s Learn design for inthe Mennonite Men ‘JoinTrees’participating campaign to Find out what you can doto slow climate change, by 237 Steve Thomas, U.S. coordinator, Mennonite Men Plant Trees To SlowClimateChangeandRestore God’s Earth 21 high school. available andschools after to them through Mennonite programs space, where youth canhear about the many possibilities could you doduringthat year? Ouraimisto set upaninviting year,” a“gap andwhat example, what are the advantages of options youth have to connect their faith andvocation. For Wecomes next, after graduation. willtalk about the different seminar will be forhighschoolersThis contemplating what 230/231 Mennonite colleges for Mennonite MissionNetwork, andrepresentatives from andchurch relations representative recruiter FreyEric Martin, What You DoNext Matters can doanytime, anywhere. leadership issomething you leading. kindof This down way of us an“upside-down kingdom,” we can offer the world anupside- “leadership position” onits head.Similarto how Jesus showed — through stories andexamples —one that flips the term leadership leadership.true Come explore anew definition of status orpopularity. of these are ingredients Inreality, none of So many assume that being aleader requires aspecific position, Jr BallroomD Hesston College advancement, Miller, viceRachel president of Swartzendruber Who’s theLeader? Quarterback, ClassClownandHomecomingQueen—But financial aid from our Mennonite colleges anduniversities,financial aidfromourMennonite colleges is state. seminar, This led by andwith input fromthe directors of that itisless expensive to attend apublic university inyour home the sticker price and/orthe assumption education because of Too out Mennonite higher often, students andparents rule 236 Mennonite colleges financial aidat Lawrence Matthews andother directors of Mennonite HigherEducationIs Affordable 4:00 –5:00p.m. Adult Seminars involvedare inmassincarceration. what issues in the United States. ataste of andget Come, learn massincarceration allows people to dive into the experience of You Got Booked isaninteractive tool developed by MCCthat Jr BallroomC (MCC) coordinator, Dutt, program Mennonite Central Committee Jes Stoltzfus Buller, peace education coordinator, andKrista You GotBooked
Wednesday Schedule intended for parents of junior high and high school students, Youth Seminars youth leaders and church members who serve on college/church 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. scholarship committees. Ask Us Anything: A Health Professions Career Roundtable Poverty, Spirituality and Work Clair Hochstetler and other members of Mennonite Healthcare Tim Penner, former board chair, and Bethany Nussbaum, senior Fellowship development officer, Mennonite Economic Development 233 Associates Participants interested or involved in health careers are invited 238 to share their experience and explorations, with an emphasis Addressing poverty is complex, and many organizations tackle on how faith may guide vocational discernment in the healing specific aspects of poverty. MEDA creates business solutions to professions. poverty; we believe this to be a spiritual, missional undertaking. When people living in poverty are supported in expressing their Daring to Make Peace: The M.J. Sharp Story entrepreneurial gifts, they are able to unleash their God-given John Sharp, author, retired professor and father of M.J. potential to earn a livelihood. We believe business is a holy calling 232 and can be a means to creating a more just world. We will share Is peace more than theology? More than history? For centuries, examples of this along with how firms have stepped up to the we have sharpened “our” peace theology and honed our challenges of COVID-19. storytelling of Anabaptist martyrs. But have we put our theology into practice? Have the stories of history motivated us to active Reawakened: How Your Congregation Can Spark peacemaking? M.J. Sharp felt called to build peace in dangerous Lasting Change places, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he Glen Guyton, author and executive director of Mennonite was abducted and shot March 12, 2017. What can we learn from Church USA his life, service and death? 263 Does your church have gummed-up gears, or are you activated So, What Is Your Spirituality Type? for ministry? Are you relevant in the community where you Brian Martin Burkholder, university chaplain, Eastern Mennonite serve? More and more people are moving away from the church University — not because they lack faith in God, but because the church 230/231 is no longer relevant to their lives. The church — not God Perhaps we’re not accustomed to sharing our spirituality type — is the problem. Glen Guyton presents on his eight keys to while relating to one another in the church, but much of our unlocking the power of relevance in your ministry, from his new critique of church or worship styles certainly reflects it! Would book Reawakened. Come explore these keys and learn practical you like to better understand yourself as a spiritual being — suggestions to help churches. maybe freeing yourself to more fully express yourself spiritually? Worship for All How might knowing more about several spirituality types nurture understanding, compassion and curiosity across our differences? Jeanne Davies, executive director, Anabaptist Disabilities Let’s explore together! Network 262 When $#@! Happens: What the Bible Says About Pain, Trauma Instead of trying to adjust worship services to include people and Us with disabilities, why not plan services with them in mind from Susannah Larry, assistant professor of biblical studies, Anabaptist the beginning? In this seminar, we will talk about how to plan Mennonite Biblical Seminary worship services based on universal design — worship that Jr Ballroom D includes all people in planning, leading and worshiping together. Life can be really tough ... and reading the Bible is no picnic either! In this seminar, youth will look at how Scripture deals with some of the toughest aspects of life. We’ll focus on three key themes — family conflict, identity and loss — through studying 1 Samuel 20 and Judges 11.
22 recreation isinExhibit HallB. the convention center. The areExhibits inthe mainlobby of inthe recreation hall. some energy Visit the exhibits orburn 8:30 –10:00p.m. Exhibits andRecreation Open book collection. in Phoenix with aprized dinosaurbone andaridiculously large preaching.emerging Anabaptism,andcontemporary She lives the country, speaking onsubjects such as biblical hermeneutics, frequent preacher andlecturer at churches anduniversities across Grand Ballroom Meghan Good 7:00 –8:30p.m. Jesus isthePeace Worship involvedare inmassincarceration. what issues in the United States. ataste of andget Come, learn massincarceration allows people to dive into the experience of You Got Booked isaninteractive tool developed by MCCthat Jr BallroomC (MCC) coordinator, Dutt, program Mennonite Central Committee Jes Stoltzfus Buller, peace education coordinator, andKrista You GotBooked School and Gordon College. Meghan is a School andGordonCollege. Meghan isa Portland Seminary, Duke Divinity of graduate Scripture Today.Making Sense of She isa Bible Unwrapped: The andauthor of Arizona at Trinity Mennonite Church inGlendale, Dr. Meghan LarissaGoodisTeaching Pastor 23 sewing circles to dancing circles - let’s move together! And don’t your dancing forget shoes! We’ve from graduated what isupto andhow MWUSA youlearn might fit in to that. life and Enjoy achance to mingle with women fromallwalks of Jr BallroomD 9:00 –10:30p.m. Women USAReception She, Her, They, Us: Mennonite just might know more than you think! ready to compete. Prizes will be awarded to the top teams. You sixorfewer andcome Trivia. Youth teams of are invited to form Team put your to randomknowledge the test foranight of and Join andUniversities the Mennonite Colleges (MCU) staff You won’t want tomisswhat hasbecome aconvention tradition! 230/231 9:00-10:00 p.m. Team TriviaNight
Wednesday Schedule Cincinnati At A Glance
THURSDAY, JULY 8, 2021
7:00 a.m. Morning Run Hotel Lobby
Adult Seminars 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. Be a (Good) Man: Characteristics of Healthy Masculinity 262 A Conversation on Palestine With Jonathan Kuttab 237 How ACEs Affect Youth and How You Can Respond 236 How Much Is Enough? 238 Reclaiming the Bible With Survivors of Sexualized Violence 234 What’s the Story? Narrative Lectionary — Sunday and Everyday 261
Youth Seminars 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. Bible Study: Creating a Meal Scene in Corinth 232 Changing the Narrative: Climate What? 233 I Fight Authority, Authority Always Wins 230/231 Jesus, Violence and Peace Jr Ballroom D Put Your Body Into It: Using Theater to Practice Peace-Building 263 So, What Is Your Spirituality Type? Jr Ballroom C
10:30 - 11:30 a.m. Bible Study With Safwat Marzouk and Voices Together Grand Ballroom
11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Youth Small Groups Convention Center
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Lunch Exhibit Hall A
11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Exhibits Open 5th St Concourse Recreation Open Exhibit Hall B
Free Afternoon
7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Worship - Feel the Peace Grand Ballroom
8:30 - 10:00 p.m. Exhibits Open 5th St Concourse Recreation Open Exhibit Hall B
9:00 - 10:30 p.m. Goshen College Alumni and Friends Reception Hilton Netherland Hotel – Rookwood Room
24
Thursday, July 8
Morning Run childhood experiences (ACEs) on youth and, then, talk about 7:00 a.m. ways in which leaders can bring the healing waters of our faith to Hotel lobby their experience. Join others from your hotel for a morning run. Meet in the lobby at 7:00 a.m. and head out in small groups depending on the How Much Is Enough? distance you want to cover that day. Mitch Stutzman, stewardship consultant, Everence 238 Adult Seminars Do I have enough … to feel secure … to support my family 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. … to retire … to be generous? These are the questions that we think about as we shop, check our account balances or meet with Be a (Good) Man: Characteristics of Healthy Masculinity the financial professionals in our life. They are difficult questions Steve Thomas, U.S. coordinator, Mennonite Men to ask and even more difficult questions to answer. During this 262 highly interactive workshop, we will spend our time together Boys and men are sometimes told to “be a man.” But what exploring the idea of finding enough in our daily walk. does this mean? Through the interactive “man box” exercise, we will compare the traits of dominant masculinity with healthy Reclaiming the Bible With Survivors of Sexualized Violence masculinity, from an Anabaptist Christian perspective. Come Susannah Larry, assistant professor of biblical studies, Anabaptist learn what God’s Spirit is forming us to be as men following Mennonite Biblical Seminary Jesus. This seminar will be led by the U.S. Coordinator of 234 Mennonite Men, co-editor of Peaceful at Heart: Anabaptist For many survivors of sexualized violence, the Bible has been Reflections on Healthy Masculinity, and co-author of the new a source of pain. However, the living word of Scripture also book Strong, Loving, and Wise: Joining Conversations for Men. offers the possibility of healing and hope, as we reclaim its sacred words for all of God’s people. This seminar will give participants A Conversation on Palestine With Jonathan Kuttab the opportunity to consider traumatic Scripture passages and Jonathan Kuttab, devoted Mennonite and Palestinian Christian possibilities for community-based interpretation that empower Human Rights attorney survivors and those who walk alongside them in ministry. 237 Hear firsthand stories and an analysis of the latest occurrences What’s the Story? Narrative Lectionary — Sunday and in Palestine, including the plight of the Palestinian Christians, the Everyday humanitarian crisis in Gaza and what your Mennonite church Jennifer Davis Sensenig, lead pastor, Community Mennonite can do about it. Church, Harrisonburg, Virginia 261 How ACEs Affect Youth and How You Can Respond “I didn’t grow up in the church, so I don’t really know the Bonita Bontrager Schrock, LCSW, and chief clinical officer, whole biblical story.” “I grew up in the church and I know some Oaklawn Psychiatric Center Bible stories and have some favorite verses, but how does it all 236 come together?” This seminar for preachers, worship leaders Youth leaders know that their students bring a variety of and Christian formation leaders (of all ages) will introduce difficult experiences with them into youth group activities and participants to the Narrative Lectionary — an alternative to the discussions — and they’ve often experienced more than what Revised Common Lectionary — which aims to tell the whole they are willing to share. Some have histories of living in homes BIG STORY of Scripture each year. or communities with abuse, violence, drug use, mental illness, death and more. In this seminar Bonita Bontrager Schrock will discuss research surrounding the effects of specific adverse
26 Jr BallroomD coordinator,Dutt, program Mennonite Central Committee Jes Stoltzfus Buller, peace education coordinator, and Krista Jesus, Violence andPeace and guidance. power, authority andinjustice inhisown life, we can find hope we out injustice? When lookat how Jesus approached carrying the authorities inourlives, especially the ones that seem to be faith interact with that? How dopeople of do we dowith allof white supremacy, classism andnationalism. What systems of we must obey arefraughtwith injustices andoften based on economic systems, the landsthat we live on,andeven laws be untrustworthy. aswe diginto history, Furthermore, our — police, pastors, out to political leaders —sometimes turn Many authority figures that we were brought up to respect 230/231 Mennonite MissionNetwork andchurch relations representative, recruiter FreyEric Martin, Fight Authority,I AuthorityAlwaysWins people likeand hearyou how are ordinary changing the world. Richer, inEcuador with Mennonite MissionNetwork, who serve Joinempowerment. aconversation with Jane andJerrell Ross forcollectivecreating opportunities action andcommunity which the economy, humanrights andthe natural world rides, upon Human impact onthe climate the current haschanged into their own the landandtake hands. conservation live off Zábalo of Cofáninthe village in the Ecuadorian rainforest. The youth whoIndigenous are leading the way with creative solutions “Fear still say. not!” the angels Come hear stories about 233 mission workers Jane andJerrell Ross Richer, Mennonite MissionNetwork Changing theNarrative: Climate What? any age. seminarisforaudiences of This agree? alongwhen we about getting don’t can we11:17-34. What learn different views about eating together, after hearing 1Corinthians meals when they celebrated the Lord’s Supper. We will role-play Later, heheard about the Corinthians’ church fights — even at missionwork. Corinth, then he left to dofurther in the city of experience. Apostle Paul The planted several house churches learning Group Bible study can be both funandadeep 232 Creating aScene inCorinth Reta Halteman Finger, author of Bible Study: Creating aMealSceneinCorinth 9:00 –10:00a.m. Youth Seminars 27 moment. and practicing atechnique that can train you to respond inthe improv theater, learning experience. You of to be part will get Michele andactors inaninteractive theater Hershberger forum Join injustice, hurt. to stand insolidarity when people are getting to train ourminds, mouths andbodies to speakout against didn’t Irespond to that racist comment?” It takes practice wish Iwould have done something to stop that bully,” or“Why Have you ever looked back onasituation andsaid,“Wow, I 263 ministry, Hesston College Bible andyouth Michele Hershberger, andprofessor author of Building Put Your BodyIntoIt: Using Theater toPractice Peace- Justice Amidst Pandemic andRacism.” Seminary, Indiana, will share onthe topic, Elkhart, “Shalom Old Testament/Hebrew Bible at Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical from MennoMedia. Safwat Marzouk,associate professor of Together, the new Anabaptist hymnal andworship resource Bible study will open with worshipThe selections fromVoices Grand Ballroom Safwat MarzoukandVoices Together 10:30 –11:30a.m. Justice andReconciliationintheJoseph Story Bible Study Let’s explore together! understanding, compassion andcuriosity across ourdifferences? How might knowing more about several spirituality types nurture spiritually? to more fullyexpress yourself maybe freeing yourself as aspiritual being — you like to better understand yourself church orworship reflects it! styles certainly Would critique of our while relating to one another inthe church, but much of Perhaps we’re notaccustomed to sharingourspirituality type Jr BallroomC University Burkholder, Brian Martin campus pastor, Mennonite Eastern So,Is Your What Spirituality Type? life. seminar to reflect onandidentify what peace means in your daily and they how challenge we live out ourpeace theology. Join this violence andnonviolence, us to define ourunderstanding of questions, These like manyscenarios inourlives,harmed? ask we remain silent while others are if should call the police? What in protests? Own guns?How dowe decide if, orwhen, we we don’t onwhat that means. necessarily agree Canwe engage We that Jesus might allagree calls usto be peacemakers, but
Thursday Schedule Exhibits and Recreation Open 11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Visit the exhibits or burn some energy in the recreation hall. Exhibits are in the main lobby of the convention center. The recreation is in Exhibit Hall B. Worship Feel the Peace 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. Ana Hinojosa Grand Ballroom Ana Alicia Hinojosa is from Brownsville, Texas and works for Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Central States as Immigration Education Coordinator, where she is committed to the work of educating immigrants of their rights and bridging congregations to the work of MCC. She is a single, adoptive mother of three young adults, who have inspired her to pursue her doctoral degree in Education.
Exhibits and Recreation Open 8:30 – 10:00 p.m. Visit the exhibits or burn some energy in the recreation hall. Exhibits are in the main lobby of the convention center. The recreation is in Exhibit Hall B. Goshen College Alumni and Friends Reception 9:00 – 10:30 p.m. Hilton Netherland Hotel - Rookwood Room We will have a college update from President Stoltzfus, food, fellowship, and some GC swag give-aways.
!Explore: A Theological Program for High School Youth provides a space for young people to strengthen their leadership skills and deepen their faith. Congregational Experience Work alongside your pastor in a mentoring relationship (100 hours). Group Experience Join peers and AMBS faculty and students for 17 days of worship, study and service on AMBS’ campus in summer 2021 and in Indonesia at Mennonite World Conference in summer 2022. VISIT: ambs.edu/explore A program of Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary 28 ® Visit the MAX Insurance page in the VIRTUAL EXHIBIT HALL and enter our drawing.
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29 Cincinnati At A Glance
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 2021
7:00 a.m. Morning Run Hotel Lobby
Adult Seminars 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. Disabilities and Mutual Care 262 Disabling Gun Violence: The RAWtools Network 236 The Messy Struggle of Anti-Racism 234 Peacemaking in Africa With Muslims and Christians 238 Sisterhood Decalogue: 10 Women of 10 Decades Talk 233 About the 10 Commandments
Youth Seminars 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. Daring To Make Peace: The M.J. Sharp Story 232 I Fight Authority, Authority Always Wins 230/231 Improv: Walking in a Palestinian’s Shoes Jr Ballroom D Making Peace With Conflict 263 Put Your Body Into It: Using Theater to Practice Peace-Building Jr Ballroom C
10:30 - 11:30 a.m. Bible Study With Safwat Marzouk and Voices Together Grand Ballroom
11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Youth Small Groups Convention Center
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Lunch Exhibit Hall A
11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Exhibits Open 5th St Concourse Recreation Open Exhibit Hall B
1:30 - 2:30 p.m. Midday Mixer Grand Ballroom
Adult Seminars 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. The Multicultural Future of the Mennonite Church 262 Neighboring: How Churches Can End Family Homelessness 238 Reading the Bible, Hearing God’s Word 230/231 Teaching Tools for Church Contexts 236 Two-Way Mission 263
30 Adult Seminars 2:45 - 3:45 p.m. Congregations Caring for Creation: Starting Points 236 Contemplative Photography: Seeing as a Way to a 233 Greater Awareness of God Conversatorio 2: Sanarse y avanzar hacia el COVID-19 261 How Your Financial Decisions Can Create Social Change 232 Practical Steps To Becoming a Welcoming Congregation 237
Youth Seminars 2:45 - 3:45 p.m. Becoming an Effective Bystander: Sexual Assault Intervention 262 and Prevention Being a Competitive Athlete AND a Mennonite Jr Ballroom D A Friday AT GLANCE Designing Your Life in Complicated Times 230/231 Making Peace With Conflict 263 Quarterback, Class Clown and Homecoming Queen — Jr Ballroom C But Who’s the Leader? The Bible and Christian Nationalism 238
Adult Seminars 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Future Driven Partnership: Pursuing God’s Call at 263 Mennonite Mission Network Out of the Pit of Despair 234 Pursuing Happiness: A Wisdom Conversation 236 Seeking Economic Justice in Communities of Color 262
Youth Seminars 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Living Like the Lilies: Three Paths to a Simpler Life 233 People on the Move: What Would You Choose? 232 The Struggle Is Real: A Tool for Navigating Life’s Jr Ballroom C Difficult Challenges Trevor Noah Visits Sunday School Jr Ballroom D Using Ancient Wisdom to Stop Destructive Communication 230/231
7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Worship - Trust the Peace Grand Ballroom
31 Friday, July 9
Morning Run 7:00 a.m. Hotel lobby inequity, an Anabaptist education should enable students to Join others from your hotel for a morning run. Meet in the lobby practice shalom through global awareness, cultural sensitivity, at 7:00 a.m. and head out in small groups depending on the anti-racism and compassionate living. distance you want to cover that day. Peacemaking in Africa With Muslims and Christians Sharon Norton, Co-director for Africa and Europe, Mennonite Adult Seminars Mission Network, and panel 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. 238 Hear stories of peacemaking in Africa, through sports, Disabilities and Mutual Care midwifery and day-to-day interactions between Muslims and Jeanne Davies, executive director, Anabaptist Disabilities Christians. The panel includes Nehemiah Chigoji, pastor, Upland Network Peace Church and Executive Director of Nigerian Anabaptist 262 Resource Center; Christy Harrison, RN, mission worker with Individuals and families with disabilities carry some additional Mennonite Mission Network; and Peter Sensenig, PhD, mission burdens in life. Well-meaning people often remind them to “take worker with Mennonite Mission Network. care of themselves.” Instead of taking care of ourselves, how might we shoulder burdens and share joys together, based on the Sisterhood Decalogue: 10 Women of 10 Decades Talk About Anabaptist practice of mutual care? the 10 Commandments Cyneatha Millsaps, pastor and executive director, Mennonite Disabling Gun Violence: The RAWtools Network Women USA Mike Martin, executive director, RAWtools, Inc. 233 236 This Bible study exemplifies how a diverse sisterhood of This seminar equips individuals and churches with creative Anabaptist women can offer rich inspiration for living, approaches to reducing gun violence in their community. From by weaving their stories into the greater biblical narrative. unwanted firearms to firearms in evidence boxes, RAWtools Composed of 13 lessons, this study focuses on the Ten creates garden tools and art from disabled firearms throughout Commandments. the country, with the help of over 50 nationwide volunteers. The tools and art help people heal from trauma related to gun violence. Attendees will learn how to integrate prophetic Youth Seminars and transformative practices to engage their community in 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. conversation and practice. Daring to Make Peace: The M.J. Sharp Story The Messy Struggle of Anti-Racism John Sharp, author, retired professor and father of M.J. Jeanne Zimmerly Jantzi and Joel Gaines, Mennonite high school 232 administrators Is peace more than theology? More than history? For centuries, 234 we have sharpened “our” peace theology and honed our Mennonite education, centered in Jesus, embraces the dignity of storytelling of Anabaptist martyrs. But have we put our theology each person created in the image of God. God-given diversity into practice? Have the stories of history motivated us to active among people and cultures is embraced. Students are taught peacemaking? M.J. Sharp felt called to build peace in dangerous that the world is bigger than their communities, and they are places, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he given the tools needed to see diversity as a rich blessing to be was abducted and shot March 12, 2017. What can we learn from sought out and to learn from. Not all differences among people his life, service and death? are God-given gifts, though. In a context of racial injustice and
32 didn’t Irespond to that racist comment?” It takes practice wish Iwould have done something to stop that bully,” or“Why Have you ever looked back onasituation and said,”Wow, I Jr BallroomC ministry, Hesston College Bible andyouth Michele Hershberger, andprofessor author of Building Put Your BodyIntoIt: Using Theater toPractice Peace- conflict by practicing these skills! others. to make peace with harming Come joinusandlearn problem solvingandideas forstopping violence, without dealing with conflict, including communication skills, skills of ... oritcan be seminar transformative. will teach This the basic Conflict has the ability communities to rip apart and relationships fromothers, isimportant. difference,to manage oraggression how life and learning of part we respond? Conflict isanormal how should aggression, faced with difficult conflicts or When 263 coordinator,Dutt, program Mennonite Central Committee Jes Stoltzfus Buller, peace education coordinator, andKrista Making Peace With Conflict Israel. leaders canbe advocates to address the situation inPalestine and andtalk about ways that youth andtheir simulation to debrief throwing stones at avehicle. We’llof take some time after the — one Palestinian andone Israeli —are caught inthe same act us forthis simulation to see what happens when two teenagers you like improv,If orjust enjoy watching others doimprov, join Jr BallroomD Peacemaking Coordinator, MCUSA,andfriends Palestine Israel Jonathan Partners Brenneman ,former in IMPROV: Walking inaPalestinian’s Shoes and guidance. power, authority andinjustice inhisown life, we can find hope we out injustice? When lookat how Jesus approached carrying the authorities inourlives, especially the ones that seem to be faith interact with that? How dopeople of do we dowith allof white supremacy, classism andnationalism. What systems of we must obey arefraughtwith injustices andoften based on economic systems, the landsthat we live on,andeven laws be untrustworthy. aswe diginto history, Furthermore, our — police, pastors, out to political leaders —sometimes turn Many authority figures that we were brought up to respect 230/231 Mennonite MissionNetwork andchurch relations representative, recruiter FreyEric Martin, Fight Authority,I AuthorityAlwaysWins 33 Exhibits andRecreation Open Justice Amidst Pandemic andRacism.” Seminary, Indiana,will share onthe topic, Elkhart, “Shalom Old Testament/Hebrew Bible at Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical from MennoMedia. Safwat Marzouk,associate professor of Together, the new Anabaptist hymnal andworship resource Bible study will open with worshipThe selections fromVoices Grand Ballroom Safwat Marzoukand Voices Together 10:30 –11:30a.m. Strategies toResistXenophobia Bible Study fa113-year-old Mennonite educational institution, led by Dr. of asacase study seminar will examine Hesston College USA. This MC origin, new voices inleadership are reshaping the identity of fromtheir points of andfurther being communicated further ideas and values are continues to increase, andthe sharingof the same either. Asmulti-directional travel aroundthe world forms. Andthe globalmarketplace isn’t inits former years ago same church itwas 18years ago, let alone 30 at its re-birth, today isnot the Mennonite ChurchThe USA(MCUSA) of 262 Joseph Manickam, president, Hesston College The Multicultural Future oftheMennoniteChurch 1:30 –2:30p.m. Adult Seminars Bring any questions that developed duringtheir message. interact with the worship speaker from the previous service. midday mixer to will be anopportunity of second part The to know toyouth get fromother congregations. as opportunities aswell middayfor youth. mixerwith The some games will start Worship leader ChrisCox will leadthis time designed specifically Grand Ballroom 1:30 –2:30p.m. Midday Mixer recreation isinExhibit HallB. the convention center. The areExhibits inthe mainlobby of inthe recreation hall. some energy Visit the exhibits orburn 11:30 a.m. –2:00p.m. moment. and practicing atechnique that can train you to respond inthe improv theater, learning experience. You of to be part will get Michele andactors inaninteractive theater Hershberger forum Join injustice, hurt. to stand insolidarity when people are getting to train ourminds, mouths andbodies to speakout against
Friday Schedule Joseph A. Manickam, Hesston College’s president, who is an Two-Way Mission immigrant and was raised outside of the Mennonite church. He Jane and Jerrell Ross Richer, Mennonite Mission Network will examine key themes, such as faith, identity, culture and race, mission workers for developing an understanding of the multicultural future of 263 MC USA. Many of us have had eye-opening experiences, through living in other countries or relating to people whose contexts are different Neighboring: How Churches Can End Family Homelessness from our own. How can we integrate what we have learned Edith Yoder, CEO, Bridge of Hope National from one setting into another? Jane and Jerrell Ross Richer 238 migrate between the Global South and Global North each year, Family homelessness intersects with housing, racial and gender being in the Ecuadorian rain forest with Indigenous people, as inequity, as well as the lack of social supports. How can churches well as doing life in Goshen, Indiana. In this seminar, learn how neighbor homeless families? Families who are homeless our diverse experiences in varied contexts can help us see, hear have often exhausted their support networks and can benefit and live with authenticity wherever we may be. from added support and advocacy. Through the life-changing opportunity called “Neighboring,” the church can answer the Adult Seminars call to provide support networks to help families build strong 2:45 – 3:45 p.m. and resilient lives for themselves and their children. Neighboring helps the body of Christ demonstrate God’s love and goodness Congregations Caring for Creation: Starting Points in new ways that honor our calling to love others. Jennifer Schrock and Katie Isaac, MCCN and CSCS 236 Reading the Bible, Hearing God’s Word The scope of environmental damage feels overwhelming. What Tim Penner, former board chair, and Bethany Nussbaum, senior do churches have to offer, and where do they start? Katie Isaac, development officer, Mennonite Economic Development a former research fellow with the Center for Sustainable Climate Associates Solutions, spent a year listening to a wide range of congregations 230/231 and then designing a series of plans to guide them. Katie Isaac As the “essential book of the church” (Confession of Faith in a and Jennifer Schrock, of Mennonite Creation Care Network, will Mennonite Perspective, Article 4), the Bible is both a collection introduce you to these resources and others. of ancient texts that offers a cross-cultural encounter with a strange world and the source of God’s word that speaks with Contemplative Photography: Seeing as a Way to a Greater current relevance to our own world. This seminar focuses on Awareness of God how Mennonite Church USA congregations cross the distance J. Tyler Klassen, photographer with a Master of Arts in Christian between the absent world of the Bible and the present voice of formation God, through a variety of church performance practices, such 233 as sermons, public reading of Scripture and group Bible studies. Contemplative photography is a spiritual practice that uses Participants will be invited to discuss how the Bible is used photography as a tool to allow God to guide us to a greater as a performance script for hearing God’s word in their own understanding of God’s presence in the ways we experience congregational settings. our world. Through practices framed by photography, we will explore how God can lead us to a greater visual sensitivity and Teaching Tools for Church Contexts awareness of our world. God’s presence and leading are with us Suzanne Ehst, professor of education, Goshen College day by day, moment by moment. Contemplative photography 236 is a practice of listening that may help us to be better attuned Wish you could become a better teacher in your church? In this ourselves to God’s voice. seminar, we will consider various instructional strategies that could be adapted for any age group. This seminar is designed to Conversatorio 2: Sanarse y avanzar hacia el COVID-19 equip those who do not have formal teaching training but who Marco Güete, director of Hispanic ministries education, teach in church contexts, like Sunday school, Bible school or Mennonite Education Agency camp. Specific topics will include 1) ways to facilitate discussion 261 to promote balanced participation and active listening; 2) Es común que los pastores, líderes y miembros de la iglesia structures for interpreting and responding to texts; 3) learning hispana experimenten un aumento en los niveles de angustia y strategies that involve the body and movement for all ages; 4) the ansiedad, particularmente como resultado del aislamiento social. value of “backward design,” or developing your plan in light of Los pastores y otros líderes de la iglesia son particularmente your desired outcome. 34 healthy, supportive survivor communities. before, duringandafter anincident, inorder to create intervene how they can with anunderstanding of equipping participants of related to sexual violence,discuss the concepts with the goal will instances related to sexual assault andmisconduct. They of inarange be aprosocial bystander who isable to intervene Network Intervention (PIN) will introduce what it means to Student educators Goshen College’s from Prevention 262 Shank, student educators, Goshen College Baer,Katie Talia Miller, LauraMiller, EmmaNouri,Samantha and Prevention Becoming anEffectiveBystander: Sexual Assault Intervention 2:45 –3:45p.m. Youth Seminars growth. outreachsurprises, and fornew ministry aswell asopportunities welcoming processes, and including unexpected barriers Welcoming will offer insights about successful Congregations toward amore welcoming posture.congregation Pastors from that will help lead your some practical steps to learn opportunity their congregation’s andlife. seminar the offers This ministry in often experience impactful transformation the congregation Churches that welcome LGBTQpeople fully into the life of 237 welcoming congregations pastors of A panel of Practical StepstoBecominga Welcoming Congregation managing ourfinancial resources for the future. many ways we can make adifference for others today, while the andimpact thechange future. Join usforanexploration of that world. financial of tools day The you use every can be part new focus formanyseeking to increase justice andpeace inour into the way ourworld works. Economics have become the the desired change a cause —it requires the ability to integrate requiresBringing about more socialchange than just passionfor 232 Marlene Kroeker, stewardship investing consultant, Everence stewardship investing, and Mark Regier, vice president of How Your FinancialDecisionsCanCreate SocialChange bienestar y el de y susfamiliares amigos. de cuidar asusmiembros conpreocupaciones sobresupropio yel ministerio mientras seesfuerzan porequilibrar el servicio vulnerables alosefectos negativos en lasaludmental yespiritual 35 as you joinGod’s work inthe world. and pursue the many ways you might continually be transformed, Come explore ‘design thinking’ asaway to discover, embrace follow andmake Christ you adifference inthe world. to truly immense youth, for anditisn’t necessarily helpfulinempowering right major.The pressure to “stay The onthe right path” is right electives. right clubs. The GPA. right The right college. The make your family, church, friends andcommunity proud.The tothe path you think you shouldfollowNOT to conform to transformed,” (Romans 12:2NASB), but sometimes it’s hard to this world,Scripture tells us, but be “Donot beconformed 230/231 Bluffton University communications, Marathana Prothro, assistant professor of Designing Your LifeinComplicated Times positive attributes forMennonite athletes. lose. We’ll discuss how strength andpower can be perceived as andvalues,history aswe the consider ways we win, compete and Find out how athletics can beaconduit to shareMennonite Jr BallroomD track andfield, Goshen College Rustin Nyce, head coach of Being aCompetitive Athlete AND aMennonite can do anytime, anywhere. leadership issomething you leading. kindof This down way of us an“upside-down kingdom,” we can offer the world anupside- “leadership position” onits head.Similarto how Jesus showed — through stories andexamples —one that flips the term leadership leadership.true Come explore anew definition of status orpopularity. of these are ingredients Inreality, none of So many assume that being aleader requires aspecific position, Jr BallroomC Hesston College advancement, Miller, viceRachel president of Swartzendruber Who’s theLeader? Quarterback, ClassClownandHomecoming Queen—But conflict by practicing these skills! others. to make peace with harming Come joinusandlearn problem solvingandideas forstopping violence, without dealing with conflict, including communication skills, skills of ... oritcan be seminar transformative. will teach This the basic Conflict has the ability communities to rip apart and relationships fromothers, isimportant. difference,to manage oraggression how life and learning of part we respond? Conflict isanormal how should aggression, faced with difficult conflicts or When 263 coordinator,Dutt, program Mennonite Central Committee Jes Stoltzfus Buller, peace education coordinator, andKrista Making Peace With Conflict
Friday Schedule The Bible and Christian Nationalism decisions be motivated by seeking the divine presence and Drew Strait, assistant professor of New Testament, Anabaptist will? How can our relationships with one another offer us the Mennonite Biblical Seminary strength, humor and accountability we need to persevere? How 238 can our relationship with money serve as a diagnostic tool to In this seminar, youth will grapple with the challenges that better understand our persistent anxieties? And how can we patriotism and Christian nationalism present to discipleship, look to our own bodies and the natural world and find wisdom in an Anabaptist perspective. Through personal stories and there? This seminar will explore wisdom traditions, with a special engagement with biblical texts, this seminar will empower youth emphasis on the tri-fold tradition in the biblical canon: Proverbs, to become an alternative global community of love, peace and Job and Ecclesiastes. justice that bears witness to Christ’s peaceable kingdom by embracing human difference, rather than fearing it. Seeking Economic Justice in Communities of Color Leonard Dow, vice president of community and church Adult Seminars development, and Mark Regier, vice president of stewardship 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. investing, Everence 262 Future Driven Partnership: Pursuing God’s Call at Mennonite Advancing economic racial justice and equity requires an honest Mission Network assessment of historic discriminatory practices, while developing Mike Sherrill, executive director, Mennonite Mission Network strategies to help address what has been lost. Racist practices, like 263 redlining, predatory lending and housing discrimination, have Mission Network is responding to the present and innovating led to a massive loss of generational wealth for people of color. for the future. We exist to equip and empower the church to be Discover some of the innovative efforts underway, seeking to a holistic witness to Jesus Christ, across the street and around address past injustice and promote equity and inclusion. Bring the world. “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, your own stories to share. but gives us power, love and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7 NIV). This truth draws us toward inclusion and partnership, as Youth Seminars we put God’s love into action for people of all cultures. We are 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. all pilgrims on a sacred journey. Together, let’s discover God’s urgent call for each of us and our church. Living Like the Lilies: Three Paths to a Simpler Life Gerald J. Mast, professor of communications, Bluffton Out of the Pit of Despair University Jill Hofer and Michelle L Hofer, advocates for survivors of 233 spiritual abuse Mennonite youth today face a complex world, profoundly 234 altered by industrial and digital technologies that impact the way God graciously offers refuge and renewal amid the trauma we organize, plan and connect our lives. This seminar offers and depression that often occur following spiritual abuse. This practical guidance for following Jesus’ call to live like the lilies session, led by individuals who are themselves spiritual abuse (Matthew 6:28), with less worry about tomorrow and more survivors, offers insights and spiritual practices for journeying delight in the present. Youth will be challenged to simplify their with God on this path of long-suffering and slow recovery. relationship to space, time, and communication to align their Note: The information shared in this seminar is not intended to lives with God’s peaceable and joyful design for the cosmos. be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment of abuse, trauma or depression. People on the Move: What Would You Choose? Jes Stoltzfus Buller, peace education coordinator, and Saulo Pursuing Happiness: A Wisdom Conversation Padilla, immigration education coordinator, Mennonite Central Dr. Jackie Wyse-Rhodes, assistant professor of religion, Bluffton Committee University 232 236 Get up! Feel what it’s like to be a person on the move. This What does it mean to live a good life in the face of human interactive learning experience will help you develop a practical mortality, political instability and theological doubt? This is an understanding of immigration issues, through an exercise that ancient and global question. Old Testament wisdom literature will move you around the room and illustrate the consequences speaks to such questions, exploring topics related to purpose, of your choices — using real-world examples. community, finances and embodiment. How can our daily 36 The Struggle Is Real: A Tool for Navigating Life’s Difficult Using Ancient Wisdom to Stop Destructive Communication Challenges Marathana Prothro, assistant professor of communications, Rachel Swartzendruber Miller, vice president of advancement, Bluffton University Hesston College 230/231 Jr Ballroom C From broken relationships to deep political and theological No matter your age, life can get messy, tough and, at times, divides, destructive communication pervades much of seemingly more than we can handle. Expand your tools for our experience today. Drawing from ancient wisdom and navigating life’s challenging situations by attending this seminar contemporary psychology, this seminar provides youth a practical and learning the Peer Consultation Process. Students and youth way to recognize these patterns of communication and offers a sponsors will gain awareness of the specific steps of Peer path toward healing and hope in their personal relationships. Consultation, as well as observe one in action — step-by-step, with an opportunity to speak into the process. This will give you, Worship your group of friends, your youth group or your family a new Trust the Peace option for navigating those messy moments of life. 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. Jon Carlson Trevor Noah Visits Sunday School Grand Ballroom Michele Hershberger, author and professor of Bible and youth Jon Carlson serves as Lead Pastor of ministry, Hesston College Forest Hills Mennonite Church. A reluctant Jr Ballroom D millennial, Jon is fascinated by the intersections Explore how we can use secular books and movie clips as a way of faith, culture, technology, and tradition. He to open our eyes to injustice. Trevor Noah, host of The Daily
and his wife are raising three young children Friday Schedule Show, won’t be hosting this seminar, but he may show up in in Lancaster County, Pa. When he’s not other ways, to talk about his life, his faith and what it was like to chauffeuring kids around, Jon enjoys a good cup of espresso, a live in post-Apartheid South Africa. His story, combined with the dense book, or a long-distance run. teachings of Jesus, can be an open door to our own racism and how to move toward being more anti-racist. Jesus calls us to love our neighbors.
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37 Cincinnati At A Glance
SATURDAY, JULY 10, 2021
7:00 a.m. Morning Run Hotel Lobby
Adult Seminars 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. The Bible and Christian Nationalism 234 Becoming Carbon Positive 262 Congregational Financial Resources 238 Daring to Make Peace: The M.J. Sharp Story 237
Youth Seminars 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. Being a Competitive Athlete AND a Mennonite Jr Ballroom D Friendship and Community in the Digital Age 233 People on the Move: What Would You Choose? 232 Shaping Our Stories; Sharing Our Stories 230/231 Trevor Noah Visits Sunday School Jr Ballroom C
10:30 - 11:30 a.m. Worship - Bring the Peace Grand Ballroom
1:00 - 3:30 p.m. Virtual Delegate Session Zoom
38 39 Saturday, July 10
Morning Run Daring to Make Peace: The M.J. Sharp Story 7:00 a.m. John Sharp, author, retired professor and father of M.J. Sharp Hotel lobby 237 Join others from your hotel for a morning run. Meet in the lobby Is peace more than theology? More than history? For centuries, at 7:00 a.m. and head out in small groups depending on the we have sharpened “our” peace theology and honed our distance you want to cover that day. storytelling of Anabaptist martyrs. But have we put our theology into practice? Have the stories of history motivated us to active Adult Seminars peacemaking? M.J. Sharp felt called to build peace in dangerous 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. places, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he was abducted and shot March 12, 2017. What can we learn from Becoming Carbon Positive his life, service and death? Jerrell Ross Richer, professor of economics, Goshen College 262 Youth Seminars We live in an interconnected world, one where the actions we 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. take affect people all over the globe. How can those of us living in the industrialized nations of the Global North become Being a Competitive Athlete AND a Mennonite proactive when it comes to climate change? Environmental Rustin Nyce, head coach of track and field, Goshen College economics students at Goshen College are developing Jr Ballroom D mechanisms to do just that. Equip yourself to become carbon Find out how athletics can be a conduit to share Mennonite positive by learning how to onset greenhouse gas emissions and history and values, as we consider the ways we win, compete and take better care of God’s creation. lose. We’ll discuss how strength and power can be perceived as positive attributes for Mennonite athletes. The Bible and Christian Nationalism Drew Strait, assistant professor of New Testament, Anabaptist Friendship and Community in the Digital Age Mennonite Biblical Seminary Robert Brenneman, professor of criminal justice and sociology, 234 Goshen College This seminar will profile Christian nationalism and patriotism 233 and offers a biblical response, in Anabaptist perspective. In This seminar will examine some of the threats to community, conversation with texts from the Old and New Testaments, we mental health and friendship posed by the proliferation will discuss the significance of the political metaphor of idolatry of screens and media’s competition for our attention. The in ancient Jewish and Christian communities. Special attention COVID-19 pandemic has further weakened our “social will be given to how rulers, ethnic reasoning, militarized state muscles,” after months of avoiding contact with those outside power and financial economies could become idolatrous in the our bubble. We’ll consider the threats we face — both physical mind of the worshiper. After this, the seminar will pivot to how and social — and how we can rebuild our social muscles as contemporary Christian congregations can faithfully negotiate individuals and communities. Christian nationalism, leverage state power for the common good, and resist the systems of domination that Christian People on the Move: What Would You Choose? nationalism amplifies. Jes Stoltzfus Buller, peace education coordinator, and Saulo Padilla, immigration education coordinator, Mennonite Central Congregational Financial Resources Committee Beryl Jantzi, director of stewardship education, Everence 232 238 Get up! Feel what it’s like to be a person on the move. This Tending the financial viability of your congregation is a key interactive learning experience will help you develop a practical pastoral and lay leader responsibility. Learn about a variety of understanding of immigration issues, through an exercise that resources that are available to support your church and individual will move you around the room and illustrate the consequences members with finances and stewardship. of your choices — using real-world examples. 40 Zoom 1:00 –3:30p.m. Virtual DelegateSession wife andtwo adult children. University. resides inSanAntonio, Glen currently Texas with his Education from Regent Air Force Academy andaMaster of fromthe United States Science inManagement a Bachelor of cansparklasting change.How Glen holds your congregation ME: Discovering your call inacluttered world andReawakened: humor andrelatability. Glen hasauthored two books, IDEAL associations, and educators praise Glen forhisquick-witted with diverse groups.information Organizations, professional Grand Ballroom Glen Guyton 10:30 –11:30a.m. Bring thePeace Worship how to move toward beingmore anti-racist. Jesus, can be anopen doorto ourown racism and teachings of live South Africa. His story, in post-Apartheid combined with the other ways, to talkabout hislife, hisfaith andwhat it was like to Show, won’t be hosting this seminar, but he may show upin Daily The to open oureyes toinjustice. Trevor Noah,host of howExplore we can use secular booksandmovie clipsasaway Jr BallroomC ministry, Hesston College Bible andyouth Michele Hershberger, andprofessor author of Trevor Noah Visits SundaySchool sharingGodwith others. look at sharingourstories asaway of shape who we areandhow ourstories can impact others. We will others. We will take alookat how the stories we tell andproject we shape aroundwho we are andhow we project ourselves to the verbal onesthat we relay friends to —but our the narratives In this seminar, we will lookathow we tell stories —not just 230/231 Mission Network andchurch relations, recruiter FreyEric Martin, Mennonite Shaping OurStories; SharingOurStories wonderful ability to sharedifficult and complex the denomination at various levels. Glenhasa in experience serving of over century aquarter Mennonite Church USA.He has Director of asthe Executive serves Glen Guyton currently 41 www.wipfandstock.com •( ) - available inbookstores •[email protected] STORYTELLIN American Civil War Civil American Mennonites,of Amish, and the STEVEN NOLT, circumstances.”dinary ordinary inextraor people - “An evocative portrait of ANABAPTIST A Fictional SeriesSetDuringtheAmericanCivilWar Book IIIcoming soon! www SCRUPLES ONTHELINE WIPF Celebrate from EvieYoder Miller Mennonite . mennoniteartsweekend Weekend Mennonite February and Cincinnati co-author Arts
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Saturday Schedule Worship Speakers
TUESDAY Lesley Francisco McClendon is the senior pastor and Caleb McClendon is the assistant pastor of C3 – Calvary Community Church, Hampton, Virginia. The duo teaches with vigor and passion and aims to deliver powerful, life-altering messages with their simple, easy-to-comprehend delivery. Lesley Francisco McClendon has a passion for bridging generational gaps and loves speaking to a broad range of audiences, although she often says that mid-20s to mid-life crisis is her sweet spot. Caleb McClendon’s laid-back approach in ministry is more like motivational speaking, encouraging and probing the minds of people who simply want to live victoriously.
WEDNESDAY Dr. Meghan Larissa Good is the teaching pastor at Trinity Mennonite Church in Glendale, Arizona, and author of The Bible Unwrapped: Making Sense of Scripture Today. She is a graduate of Portland Seminary, Duke Divinity School and Gordon College. Good frequently preaches and lectures at churches and universities across the country, speaking on subjects such as biblical hermeneutics, emerging Anabaptism and contemporary preaching. She lives in Phoenix with a prized dinosaur bone and a ridiculously large book collection.
THURSDAY Ana Alicia Hinojosa is from Brownsville, Texas, and works for Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Central States, as an immigration education coordinator. She is committed to the work of educating immigrants about their rights and bridging congregations to the work of MCC. She is a single, adoptive mother of three young adults, who have inspired her to pursue her doctoral degree in education.
FRIDAY Jon Carlson serves as the lead pastor of Forest Hills Mennonite Church in Leola, Pennsylvania. A reluctant millennial, Carlson is fascinated by the intersections of faith, culture, technology and tradition. Carlson and his wife are raising three young children in Lancaster County. When he’s not chauffeuring kids around, Carlson enjoys a good cup of espresso, a dense book or a long-distance run.
SATURDAY Glen Guyton currently serves as the executive director for Mennonite Church USA. He has more than a quarter century of experience serving in the denomination at various levels. Guyton has a wonderful ability to share difficult and complex information with diverse groups. Organizations, professional associations and educators praise Guyton for his quick-witted humor and relatability. He has authored two books, IDEAL ME: Discovering Your Call in a Cluttered World and Reawakened: How Your Congregation Can Spark Lasting Change. Guyton holds a Bachelor of Science in Management from the United States Air Force Academy and a Master of Education from Regent University. He currently resides in San Antonio, Texas, with his wife and two adult children.
42 Meet the MennoCon21 worship team
Worship band leader
Seth Thomas Crissman is an educator, musician and pastor in Mennonite Church USA, who has lived in Harrisonburg, Virginia, for 16 years, though he still says, “Western Pennsylvania,” when people ask where he’s from. He is a follower of Jesus who has spent the past 10 years helping churches work together to better give and receive God’s love in their neighborhoods and local communities. He is also a songwriter and musician for the folk group, The Walking Roots Band. Crissman and his wife, Theresa, have three small children and another on the way, coming in April. He says he loves and appreciates Theresa’s sense of adventuring and commitment to following Jesus. Crissman has served at convention for many years and is excited to help again this year.
Worship leaders
Chris Cox was born in Texas, Hendy Matahelemual was born Kay Schroeder was born into raised in Alabama, previously in and grew up in the city of a family of six and lived in served in ministry in Georgia, and Bandung, Indonesia. He graduated the country, not far from the is now serving as youth and young from Parahyangan Catholic small town of Goessel, Kansas. adults pastor at C3 Hampton University in Bandung, with a Schroeder has a Master of Arts (Virginia). He has devoted his bachelor’s degree in Law. He in Christian Formation, with life to mentoring, molding and worked in the music entertainment an emphasis in Worship, from maintaining relationships with industry and at a law office before Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical youth and young adults. Cox has being called to full-time ministry. Seminary in Elkhart, Indiana, and traveled the nation for over a Matahelemual served as a pastor a Bachelor of Arts in Speech and decade, speaking to students and in Elshaddai Creative Community Drama, Communication Arts, student leaders. He is the creator in Bandung before coming to and Music from Bethel College in of “The Collective,” a leadership the United States. Matahelemual North Newton, Kansas. She has development community for youth received a Master of Arts in served and led in the local church pastors and leaders. Cox has a Christian Leadership from Eastern setting since 2001. She has loved heart for discipleship and spends Mennonite Seminary in 2019. He planning and being involved in most of his time developing and serves with the Mosaic Mennonite worship as far back as she can creating discipleship strategies for Conference as associate pastor for remember and has served in many leaders and their teams. You also community engagement. settings. Schroeder currently may remember Chris Cox from serves as pastor of congregational MennoCon19, where he served as life at Hesston (Kansas) Mennonite a worship leader and the host of Church. Kay Schroeder and her squads for youth groups. For more husband, Joel, have two sons. information or to connect with Cox, visit his website at chriscoxspeakz.com.
Worship band Worship planning coordinator Seth Crissman — Harrisonburg, Virginia Shannon Dycus – Harrisonburg, Virginia Onan Alvarez — Houston, Texas Hillary Harder — Goshen, Indiana Technical director Emily Grimes — Lancaster, Pennsylvania Tim Blaum – Goshen, Indiana Greg Yoder — Penn Laird, Virginia Jermaine Figueroa — Houston, Texas
43 Mennonite Church USA (MC USA) would like to thank the following sponsors for their generous donations to MennoCon21:
Convention App Pheedloop Everence Everence, Mennonite Mission Network, Anabaptist World, Mennonite Central Committee, Mennonite Disaster Service
Offerings Offerings at MennoCon21 will benefit the MC USA Justice Fund. Amid significant social unrest in the United States, MC USA launched the 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 may also use these funds for seed money to begin work in their justice work.
Offerings will be collected before and after worship on Tuesday evening. Checks may also be dropped off at the convention office, room 260. Please make checks payable to “Mennonite Church USA.”
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