Welcome to
Rouge Valley         
Mennonite Church
Sunday school for all ages 10:00am
Worship Service 11:00 a.m.

May 20, 2012

Ushers: Richard Ackerman, Dale Reesor, Bob Harder, Song Leader: Ellie Nash, Pianist: Nancy Burkholder, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman,

Prelude
Welcome & Ministries of the People
Hymn HWB 36 God of our strength
Hymn HWB 56 Awake, arise, O sing a new song
Gathering in Prayer
Call to Prayer SS 31 Jesus, be the center
Children’s Time
Offering Prayer
Offertory
Child Care
Scripture Reading Ephesians 3:14-21 (pg. 950 in bibles)
Speaker Pastor Pieter Niemeyer
Hymn HWB 588 Jesus, the very thought of thee
Benediction

Long-Term Visioning Ministry meeting. After worship in Hospitality Room,

CONGREGATIONAL CALENDAR
This week
Tues., May 22- Living Room meeting 1:00 to 2:30pm at the church
         – Beavers meet at the church 6:45 to 8:30pm.
    - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.

Sun., May 27 - Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Richard Ackerman, Dale Reesor, Bob Harder, Song Leader: Ann Reesor, Pianist: Elinor Hansen, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.

Coming up:
Tues., May 29    - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.
                         -Women’s Bible Study 7:00pm at the church
Wed., May 30    -Women’s Prayer Group 2:00pm at Evelyn Burkholder’s

Sun., June 3 - Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Laurie Hadden, Karl Driedger, Joel Nash, Song Leader: Mark Schaub, Pianist: Lisa Schaub, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.

Community Events:
The Pregnancy Centre has launched its annual Baby Bottle Campaign. It started on Mother's Day, May 13th, 2012 and will end on Father's Day, June 17th, 2012. You can still pick up an empty bottle from the church foyer to fill with spare change, and return the bottle by Father's Day. Donations of $20.00 or more will receive receipts. Any questions?  Call The Pregnancy Centre at 905-472-4357 or email at markhamcpc@bellnet.ca.

Thurs., May 24, 7:00 pm:  Parkview Village is hosting a presentation to the Stouffville community at large entitled ‘Getting by with the help of our Friends’.  Come hear about options available for seniors and their families to foster healthy aging at home with community support.  Cindy Dodd, Senior Manager of client services for CCAC (Community Care Access Centre) will be the guest speaker. Location is Parkview Village Auditorium, 12184 Ninth Line, Stouffville.  All are welcome, parking and admission is free.  For more information, please speak to Louise Pogue (905-642-1359) or contact Jean Wing (905-640-1940 ex 24).

Wed., May 30, 7:00pm Willowgrove Member's Meeting will be at Rouge Valley Mennonite Church.

May 31 - June 2, 2012 The Meeting Place - Truth and Reconciliation event in Toronto -, Sheraton Centre Hotel, 123 Queen St West.  Mennonite Central Committee Ontario encourages you to attend this intergenerational regional gathering being sponsored by a number of partnering agencies in Toronto to promote respect, education and engagement related to the Indian Residential School system. To learn more, please contact Lyndsay Mollins Koene at lyndsaymk@mennonitecc.on.ca or 705-264-2494 or visit mcco.ca/Reconciliation.  

Fri., June 1, 7:00pm Theatre of the Beat presents, "Gadfly: Sam Steiner Dodges the Draft."
Based on a true story, Sam seeks to find a balance between his conservative Mennonite upbringing,
and the political realities of the day as he dodges the draft for Vietnam. The theme of active pacifism is perhaps especially poignant for our community right now, as Stouffville prepares to commemorate the War of 1812. Doors open 7:00pm at Parkview Village Auditorium. Suggested donation: $10-$15 at the door

Sun., June 10, 10:00am to 3:00pm. 75th Anniversary Hagerman Mennonite Church, Past & present Hagerman members & participants are invited to this special day of remembering & reconnecting. For more information please contact Joanna <jrmcdowell@bell.net>

Fri., June 15, 10:00am to 2:00pm at Rouge Valley Mennonite Church. We’ve come along way! Join us as we celebrate our last Annual General Meeting as the Rouge Park Alliance, and welcome Parks Canada who are working to create Canada’s first national urban park in the Rouge Valley. Reception lunch and short hike in the Bob Hunter Memorial Park area will follow the ceremony. Please RSVP by Friday May 31, 905-713-7426 or rougepark@rougepark.com

Mark your calendars for Cedarena celebrating 85 years, Sat., July 14, 2:00 to 10:00pm (7373 Reesor Rd.). Advance tickets only $25 per person, BBQ supper at 5:00pm. Visit www.cedarena.ca for details or contact Gary Mount 905-294-0038. See posting in foyer.

Out of Town Events
Fri., May 25 -2:30—6:30pm MCRS (Mennonite Coalition for Refugee Support) Office Open House at 43 Queen Street South, Kitchener (above Queen Street Commons – enter through the door to the right of Queen Street Commons).We are inviting everyone who knows and loves MCRS to drop in .We would like to share our excitement over our recent move and show off our new space to everyone.

Plan on attending the New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale May 25 & 26, and participate in the following activities: the 2K & 5K Run for Relief (register now); donate & roll coins at the Penny Power tent; buy new outdoor items at the Outdoors Auction; and all the while enjoy tasty foods like Rollkuchen & Watermelon. Details at www.nhmrs.com

Are you between 12 and 16 years old? Do you enjoy music? There is still time to register for Ontario Mennonite Music Camp (OMMC) before the early bird deadline May 31st. Application forms and additional information available online at www.grebel.uwaterloo.ca/ommc/

MCC Ontario Annual General Meeting June 14, 6:00 pm Tavistock Mennonite Church, 131 Wettlaufer Street, Tavistock The new AGM grounds our work in the church, through accountability, transparency and responsiveness. We invite each congregation to send delegates. More info and registration at mcco.ca/agm.

Notes
Bringing our relationships into the light of God.
Sun., May 20th, at 9:30am you are welcome to participate in corporate praying for the congregation of Rouge Valley Mennonite Church. We will be meeting every other Sunday morning in the Hospitality Room for approximately 20 minutes before the beginning of Sunday School. See you there!

The last Sunday of each month will be 'Food Bank Sunday'. Donations will go to the Markham, Scarborough, and Oshawa food banks.  Please bring your non-perishable food donations next Sun., May 27.

Job Opportunity:  Rouge Valley Mennonite Church (RVMC) is seeking to fill the permanent position of CHURCH SECRETARY.  This is a part-time position (24hrs/week.)  Duties include providing administrative support and reception services.  A detailed job description is available at www.rvmc.ca.  Targeted start date is mid-August.  Application deadline is June 18.  Please send resume and cover letter to julie@rvmc.ca.

It's Official, MCC is building!
Last week, our board unanimously approved that we "joyfully begin our Raising Hope building project immediately."  Your continued financial and volunteer support is greatly appreciated.  Updated news, including temporary locations while we build is available at mcco.ca/raising hope.

This is how your financial support of Mennonite Church Canada is ministering...from across the street to around the world! Please pray for the Manitoba-based team of leaders who have begun planning for the Mennonite Church Canada Youth Assembly to be held in the summer of 2013

Angelina’s Address: Here is Angelina Reesor’s address for anyone who would like to write to her, Artisan Reforestation Ltd., Box 2330, Fort St. James BC, V0J 1P0. Angelina will be tree planting in British Columbia for the next three months.

Pray for Palestinian prisoners on a hunger strike to protest detention without charges or trials, and other punishments. CPT members joined the fast May 15, the anniversary of the 1948 expulsion of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians from their homes.

See the Mennonite Disaster Service Update for May 17, 2012, on shelf in foyer.







Welcome to
Rouge Valley         
Mennonite Church
Sunday school for all ages 10:00am
Worship Service 11:00 a.m.

May 13, 2012

Ushers: Richard Ackerman, Dale Reesor, Bob Harder, Song Leader: Ann Reesor, Pianist: Julie Nash Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman, John David Ashworth.

Prelude
Welcome & Ministries of the People
Hymn SJ 25 When long before time
Hymn SJ 13 My Soul is filled with Joy
Gathering in Prayer
Call to Prayer SJ 46 O breathe on me, O breath of God
Children’s Time
Offering Prayer
Offertory Hymn SJ 91 Like a mother who has borne us
Child Care
Scripture Reading Ephesians 3:1-13 (pg 950 in Bibles)
Speaker Pastor Pieter Niemeyer
Hymn HWB 498 He comes to us as one unknown
Benediction

CONGREGATIONAL CALENDAR

This week
Tues., May 15 –Congregational Care Elders Meeting 9:00am at Trudy Burkholder’s
        – Beavers meet at the church 6:45 to 8:30pm.
    - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.
    - Women’s Bible Study 7:00pm at the church

Sun., May 20 - Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Richard Ackerman, Dale Reesor, Bob Harder, Song Leader: Ellie Nash, Pianist: Nancy Burkholder, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.
    - Long-Term Visioning Ministry meeting. After worship in Hospitality Room, please bring a bag lunch

Coming up:
Tues., May 22- Living Room meeting 1:00 to 2:30pm at the church
         – Beavers meet at the church 6:45 to 8:30pm.
    - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.

Sun., May 27 - Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Richard Ackerman, Dale Reesor, Bob Harder, Song Leader: Ann Reesor, Pianist: Elinor Hansen, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.

Community Events:
Sun., May 13-The Pregnancy Centre is launching its annual Baby Bottle Campaign starting on Mother's Day, May 13th, 2012 and ending on Father's Day, June 17th, 2012. Please pick up an empty bottle from the church foyer on Mother's Day to fill with spare change, and return the bottle by Father's Day. Donations of $20.00 or more will receive receipts. Any questions?  Call The Pregnancy Centre at 905-472-4357 or email at markhamcpc@bellnet.ca.

Wed., May 16-Register for The Meeting Place: Truth and Reconciliation conference being held May 31 – June 2. An intergenerational gathering to promote respect, education and engagement of the Indian Residential School System at the Sheraton Centre Hotel, 123 Queen Street West, Toronto. Includes special youth & student agenda, offering a free conference experience for 150 youth, tailored to their perspectives.

Wed., May 30, 7:00pm Willowgrove Member's Meeting will be at Rouge Valley Mennonite Church.

Sun., June 10, 10:00am to 3:00pm. 75th Anniversary Hagerman Mennonite Church, Past & present Hagerman members & participants are invited to this special day of remembering & reconnecting. For more information please contact Joanna

Fri., June 15, 10:00am to 2:00pm at Rouge Valley Mennonite Church. We’ve come along way! Join us as we celebrate our last Annual General Meeting as the Rouge Park Alliance, and welcome Parks Canada who are working to create Canada’s first national urban park in the Rouge Valley. Reception lunch and short hike in the Bob Hunter Memorial Park area will follow the ceremony. Please RSVP by Friday May 31, 905-713-7426 or rougepark@rougepark.com

Mark your calendars for Cedarena celebrating 85 years, Sat., July 14, 2:00 to 10:00pm (7373 Reesor Rd.). Advance tickets only $25 per person, BBQ supper at 5:00pm. Visit www.cedarena.ca for details or contact Gary Mount 905-294-0038. See posting in foyer.

Out of Town Events
Fri., May 25 -2:30—6:30pm MCRS (Mennonite Coalition for Refugee Support) Office Open House at 43 Queen Street South, Kitchener (above Queen Street Commons – enter through the door to the right of Queen Street Commons).We are inviting everyone who knows and loves MCRS to drop in .We would like to share our excitement over our recent move and show off our new space to everyone.

Plan on attending the New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale May 25 & 26, and participate in the following activities: the 2K & 5K Run for Relief (register now); donate & roll coins at the Penny Power tent; buy new outdoor items at the Outdoors Auction; and all the while enjoy tasty foods like Rollkuchen & Watermelon. Details at www.nhmrs.com

Are you between 12 and 16 years old? Do you enjoy music? There is still time to register for Ontario Mennonite Music Camp (OMMC) before the early bird deadline May 31st. Application forms and additional information available online at www.grebel.uwaterloo.ca/ommc/

MCC Ontario Annual General Meeting June 14, 6:00 pm Tavistock Mennonite Church, 131 Wettlaufer Street, Tavistock The new AGM grounds our work in the church, through accountability, transparency and responsiveness. We invite each congregation to send delegates. More info and registration at mcco.ca/agm.

Canadian Mennonite University   www.cmu.ca
Visit http://media.cmu.ca to view articles and photos telling the story of Outtatown and CMU graduation celebrations.

Notes
Bringing our relationships into the light of God.
Sun., May 20th, at 9:30am you are welcome to participate in corporate praying for the congregation of Rouge Valley Mennonite Church. We will be meeting every other Sunday morning in the Hospitality Room for approximately 20 minutes before the beginning of Sunday School. See you there!

Angelina’s Cookie Crusade: Here is Angelina Reesor’s address for anyone who would like to write or send cookies to her, Artisan Reforestation Ltd., Box 2330, Fort St. James BC, V0J 1P0. There are calendars out in the foyer on the bulletin board for anyone who would like to sign up to send cookies. Angelina will be tree planting in British Columbia for the next three months.

Susan Prestwich our new Church Secretary will be in the church office Tuesday to Friday from 9:00am to 3:00pm, her email address is susan@rvmc.ca.

Mennonite Church Canada & MCEC each have unique responsibilities but both are part of the same church united under God’s mission in the world. Both the National Church and Area Church want to communicate with individuals, families, businesses, partners, and congregations efficiently. That is why we have joined together to do Church Engagement better. Working jointly will allow us to lower costs.

You have received your copy of the MCC Ontario "Raising Hope" brochure in which we describe plans for a new, active, multi-agency building at 50 Kent in Kitchener. Ron Mathies, Campaign Chair, invites you to respond to our invitation to invest now in this exciting project to grow our capacity to respond to need. To receive more information on the, please go to mcco.ca/raisinghope

See the Mennonite Disaster Service update for May 3, 2012, on shelf in foyer.

This is how your financial support of Mennonite Church Canada is ministering...from across the street to around the world! Praise God for discussions of hope and possibility in Israel/Palestine. The annual “Christ at the Checkpoint” conference in Bethlehem March 5-9 was hosted by Palestinian Christians at Bethlehem Bible College (BBC). It drew over 600 people from around the world, including Palmer Becker, who was in Israel/Palestine for a Mennonite Church Canada special assignment with BBC, our ministry partner.

The Early Bird registration deadline approaches! Plan to attend Dusting off the Bible for the 21st Century, Mennonite Church Canada’s 2012 Assembly in Vancouver. There will be music, inspiration, friends, faith, and food. Save by signing up by May 15th! Details at http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/events/vancouver2012/





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Welcome to
Rouge Valley          
Mennonite Church
Sunday school for all ages 10:00am
Worship Service 11:00 a.m.

May 6, 2012

Ushers: Richard Ackerman, Dale Reesor, Bob Harder, Song Leader: Mark Schaub, Pianist: Lisa Schaub Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman

Prelude
Welcome & Ministries of the People
Gathering in Prayer
Hymn The Mountain of God (Monitors)
Hymn SJ 23 Slowly turning, ever turning
Call to Prayer SS 3 Come, Light of the world
Hymn SJ 90 Lord, we bring to you our children
Child dedication Elden Musselman
Children’s Time
Offering Prayer
Offertory Hymn They’ll know we are Christians (Monitors)
Child Care
Scripture Reading Ephesians 2:11-22 (Pg. 950 in Bibles)
Speaker Pastor Pieter Niemeyer
Hymn HWB 322 For we are strangers no more
Benediction

CONGREGATIONAL CALENDAR
This week
Tues., May 8 – Living Room meeting 1:00 to 2:30pm at the church.
    - Beavers meet at the church 6:45 to 8:30pm.
    - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.
    
Wed., May 9- Ministry Council meeting 7:00pm at the church.

Sun., May 13 - Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Richard Ackerman, Dale Reesor, Bob Harder, Song Leader: Ann Reesor, Pianist: Julie Nash, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman

Coming up:
Tues., May 15 –Congregational Care Elders Meeting 9:00am at Trudy Burkholder’s
        – Beavers meet at the church 6:45 to 8:30pm.
    - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.
    - Women’s Bible Study 7:00pm at the church

Sun., May 20 - Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Richard Ackerman, Dale Reesor, Bob Harder, Song Leader: Ellie Nash, Pianist: Nancy Burkholder, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.
    - Long-Term Visioning Ministry meeting. After worship in Hospitality Room, please bring a bag lunch

Community Events:
Sun., May 6 - at 3:00pm. Pax Christi Chorale 25th anniversary gala concert at Koerner Hall, 273 Bloor Street W, Toronto in the Royal Conservatory. Phone box office to reserve (416-408-0208), see www.paxchristichorale.org/tickets, or ask Hugh Laurence. Pre-concert chat at 2:00pm.

Fri., May 11 - Arts Night Fundraiser for Fraser Lake Camp and Glenbrook Day Camp.  Featuring the one act play: 'Life as a River' - written and produced by Rebecca Steiner and Kim Walker.  Doors open at 7:00pm.  $25 + HST.  Purchase tickets at Nineteen on the Park box office in person, by phone 905-640-2322 or online www.nineteenonthepark.ca.

Sat., May 12 – Walk Against Poverty, registration 7:30am walk at 9:00am, Richmond Green Sports Centre & Park (1300 Elgin Mills Rd. East, Richmond Hill). The Society of St. Vincent de Paul York South Particular Council together with Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold are organizing this event. Register online visit www.miotc.ca or call 416-948-6682 or 905-717-9827

Sat., May 12 – Spring Fling Ladies Breakfast, 9:00 to 11:00am at the church. Speaker: Dr Jane Philpott, Chief, Department of Family Medicine, Markham Stouffville Hospital; also works with Give a Day, Stephen Lewis Foundation and more. Theme: Women who have inspired me. Music: Carol Lin, Director Music, Grace Christian Reformed Church. Proceeds:  Give a Day, a grassroots response to the

HIV pandemic in Africa. Cost: $15.00. Please reserve seating by May 7. Call Anna Reesor 905-640-2118 or Mary Lymburner 905-591-1370.

Sat., May 12 – Silver Lake Mennonite Camp’s 3rd Annual Paddle the Grand Fundraiser and Annual General Meeting. from 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm followed by a BBQ dinner and AGM at the Wagler-Carr Farm, 6354 Line 86 West Montrose. Come and enjoy a 2 hour, “downhill” paddle from West Montrose to Kaufman Flats in Waterloo in support of Silver Lake’s ministry on Saturday May 12, 2012 For more information, please visit http://slmc.ca/news/paddle-the-grand  or email Rebecca Heide at paddlethegrand@slmc.ca

Sun., June 10, 10:00am to 3:00pm. 75th Anniversary Hagerman Mennonite Church, Past & present Hagerman members & participants are invited to this special day of remembering & reconnecting. For more information please contact Joanna

Mark your calendars for Cedarena celebrating 85 years, Sat., July 14, 2:00 to 10:00pm (7373 Reesor Rd.). Advance tickets only $25 per person, BBQ supper at 5:00pm. Visit www.cedarena.ca for details or contact Gary Mount 905-294-0038. See posting in foyer.

Out of Town Events
Are you between 12 and 16 years old? Do you enjoy music? There is still time to register for Ontario Mennonite Music Camp (OMMC) before the early bird deadline May 31st. Application forms and additional information available online at www.grebel.uwaterloo.ca/ommc/

MCC Ontario Annual General Meeting June 14, 6:00 pm Tavistock Mennonite Church, 131 Wettlaufer Street, Tavistock The new AGM grounds our work in the church, through accountability, transparency and responsiveness.. We invite each congregation to send delegates. More info and registration at mcco.ca/agm.

Notes
Bringing our relationships into the light of God.
Starting Sunday, May 6th, at 9:30am. you are welcome to participate in corporate praying for the congregation of Rouge Valley Mennonite Church. We will be meeting every other Sunday morning in the Hospitality Room for approximately 20 minutes before the beginning of Sunday School. See you there!

Please feel free to send cookies! Here is Angelina Reesor’s address for anyone who would like to write to her, Artisan Reforestation Ltd., Box 2330, Fort St. James BC, V0J 1P0. Angelina will be tree planting in British Columbia for the next three months.

Susan Prestwich our new Church Secretary will be in the church office Tuesday to Friday from 9:00am to 3:00pm, her email address is susan@rvmc.ca.

Mennonite Church Canada & MCEC each have unique responsibilities but both are part of the same church united under God’s mission in the world. Both the National Church and Area Church want to communicate with individuals, families, businesses, partners, and congregations efficiently. That is why we have joined together to do Church Engagement better. Working jointly will allow us to lower costs.

You have received your copy of the MCC Ontario "Raising Hope" brochure in which we describe plans for a new, active, multi-agency building at 50 Kent in Kitchener. Ron Mathies, Campaign Chair, invites you to respond to our invitation to invest now in this exciting project to grow our capacity to respond to need. To receive more information on the, please go to mcco.ca/raisinghope

See the Mennonite Disaster Service update for May 3, 2012, on shelf in foyer.

This is how your financial support of Mennonite Church Canada is ministering...from across the street to around the world! Your support helps Mennonite Church Canada bring reconciliation. The National Day School Conference hosted in Winnipeg on May 2 and 3 will gather survivors from across the country to bring their stories into the Truth and Reconciliation process. Thank you for your prayers and support.

The Early Bird registration deadline approaches! Plan to attend Dusting off the Bible for the 21st Century, Mennonite Church Canada’s 2012 Assembly in Vancouver. There will be music, inspiration, friends, faith, and food. Save by signing up by May 15th! Details at http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/events/vancouver2012/



 

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Welcome to
Rouge Valley         
Mennonite Church
Sunday school for all ages 10:00am
Worship Service 11:00 a.m.

April 29, 2012

Ushers: Paul W. Reesor, Ron de Roo, John David Ashworth, Song Leader: Ellie Nash, Pianist: Lisa Schaub Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman

Prelude
Welcome & Ministries of the People
Gathering in Prayer
Hymn HWB #150 Wonderful grace of Jesus
Hymn HWB #143 Amazing Grace!
Call to Prayer
Prayer of praise and thanksgiving
Prayer for the world
Hymn SS #47 Let the children come to me.
Children’s Time
Offering Prayer
Offertory Hymn Kindness (Monitors)
Child Care
Scripture Reading Ephesians 2:1-10 (pg. 949-950 in Bibles) 
Speaker Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman
Hymn SS #63 God, fill me now
Benediction

* Finger food potluck, then short congregational meeting after to give updates regarding ministries of the congregation.

CONGREGATIONAL CALENDAR
This week
Tues., May 1 –Leadership Elders meeting 9:15am at the church.
    - Beavers meet at the church 6:45 to 8:30pm.
    - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.
    - Women’s Bible study 7:00pm at the church.

Thurs., May 3 - Sewing Circle meets in the Cedar Grove Meetinghouse 9:30am to 3:30pm. Please bring a bag lunch if you will be staying over the lunch hour, coffee will be provided. All are welcome.

Sun., May 6 - Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Richard Ackerman, Dale Reesor, Bob Harder, Song Leader: Mark Schaub, Pianist: Lisa Schaub, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.

Coming up:
Tues., May 8 – Living Room meeting 1:00 to 2:30pm at the church.
    - Beavers meet at the church 6:45 to 8:30pm.
    - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.
   
Wed., May 9- Ministry Council meeting 7:00pm at the church.

Sun., May 13 - Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Richard Ackerman, Dale Reesor, Bob Harder, Song Leader: Ann Reesor, Pianist: Julie Nash, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.

Community Events:
Sun., May 6 - at 3:00pm. Pax Christi Chorale 25th anniversary gala concert at Koerner Hall, 273 Bloor Street W, Toronto in the Royal Conservatory. Phone box office to reserve (416-408-0208), see www.paxchristichorale.org/tickets, or ask Hugh Laurence. Pre-concert chat at 2:00pm.

Fri., May 11 - Arts Night Fundraiser for Fraser Lake Camp and Glenbrook Day Camp.  Featuring the one act play: 'Life as a River' - written and produced by Rebecca Steiner and Kim Walker.  Doors open at 7:00pm.  $25 + HST.  Purchase tickets at Nineteen on the Park box office in person, by phone 905-640-2322 or online www.nineteenonthepark.ca.

Sat., May 12 – Spring Fling Ladies Breakfast, 9:00 to 11:00am at the church. Speaker: Dr Jane Philpott, Chief, Department of Family Medicine, Markham Stouffville Hospital; also works with Give a Day, Stephen Lewis Foundation and more. Theme: Women who have inspired me. Music: Carol Lin, Director Music, Grace Christian Reformed Church. Proceeds:  Give a Day, a grassroots response to the HIV pandemic in Africa. Cost: $15.00. Please reserve seating by May 7. Call Anna Reesor 905-640-2118 or Mary Lymburner 905-591-1370.

Mark your calendars for Cedarena celebrating 85 years, Sat., July 14, 2:00 to 10:00pm (7373 Reesor Rd.). Advance tickets only $25 per person, BBQ supper at 5:00pm. Visit www.cedarena.ca for details or contact Gary Mount 905-294-0038. See posting in foyer.

Notes
Bringing our relationships into the light of God.
Starting Sunday, May 6th, at 9:30am. you are welcome to participate in corporate praying for the congregation of Rouge Valley Mennonite Church. We will be meeting every other Sunday morning in the Hospitality Room for approximately 20 minutes before the beginning of Sunday School. See you there!

Congratulations to David Driedger and Gina Nighswander on the arrival of their first child, a boy Henry Joseph Driedger, born on Sun., Apr. 22/12, weighing 8lb 2oz. Congratulation to Karl and Alyson on their second grandchild.

I would like to thank the congregation for the cards, words of thanks and the great send off last Sunday. The skit was priceless, I have been chuckling about it ever since. (Kudos to Lys and the Sunday school class.) The wonderful painting by Elsie Nighswander is greatly appreciated and I will treasure it always. Pat Binks

Susan Prestwich our new Church Secretary will be in the church office Tuesday to Friday from 9:00am to 3:00pm, her email address is susan@rvmc.ca.

Mennonite Church Canada & MCEC each have unique responsibilities but both are part of the same church united under God’s mission in the world. Both the National Church and Area Church want to communicate with individuals, families, businesses, partners, and congregations efficiently. That is why we have joined together to do Church Engagement better. Working jointly will allow us to lower costs. For further information please check your mailbox.

Give thanks with CPT for the recent victory of Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug, a First Nations community, in protecting their traditional lands—including sacred grave sites—from mining. Pray that Ontario officials would respect the KI government as they resume talks about the lands.


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Rouge Valley
Mennonite Church   
Announcement Sheet

April 29, to May 27, 2012

Community Events
Community Euchre held the first Monday of the month at 7:30pm at Heritage United Church. Bring a friend, Have some fun! Cost one loonie. Refreshments served.

CGCC (Cedar Grove Community Club) monthly meeting held the third Monday of the month at 8:00pm January to May. Sept., Oct., and Nov. at the Community Centre.

The Kingdom ~ Edward Elgar. Koerner Hall, Toronto ~ Sunday, May 6, 2012 at 3:00 p.m.; Pre-concert chat at 2:00 pm. Pax Christi Chorale - Toronto’s Mennonite Choir, under the direction of Artistic Director Stephanie Martin performs Elgar’s rarely heard masterpiece The Kingdom with full orchestra. The performance features British baritone sensation Roderick Williams and outstanding Canadian soloists Shannon Mercer, Krisztina Szabo, and Keith Klassen. For tickets, please visit www.paxchristichorale.org/tickets or Hugh Laurence is also willing to pick up your tickets.

Sat., May 12 – Walk Against Poverty, registration 7:30am walk at 9:00am, Richmond Green Sports Centre & Park (1300 Elgin Mills Rd. East, Richmond Hill). The Society of St. Vincent de Paul York South Particular Council together with Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold are organizing this event. Register online visit www.miotc.ca or call 416-948-6682 or 905-717-9827

Pursuing Peace in Home and Native Land: Between May 31 and June 2, 2012, at the Sheraton Hotel in Toronto, The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada will be hosting a powerful event exploring the impact of Indian Residential Schools on both indigenous and settler peoples.  As a people passionate about peacemaking, Mennonites have been invited to come and learn the history, explore life-giving relationships, and discover ways to undo present colonialism. Mennonite Church Canada and MCEC encourage congregations to support the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's process.
More information will be posted on the TRC website and the MC Canada Resource Centre’s “Top 12 List for Truth and Reconciliation.”

June 2 - This Treasure in Clay Jars, Sexuality, Marriage, and the Body – One-Day Symposium hosted by the Toronto Mennonite Theological Centre, at the Toronto School of Theology, Toronto Mennonite Theological Centre 47 Queen’s Park Cres., East Toronto, visit grebel.ca/tmtc/events.shtml or contact Sarah Freeman at mennonite.centre@utoronto.ca (416) 978-6078 for  details.

Mark your Calendars for the following Community Events:
* Canada Day Picnic & BBQ, Baseball & Fireworks Fri. June 29, 6:30pm at the Corner Lot, (corner of Reesor Rd. and Steeles Ave.).
* Friday night community baseball throughout the summer at the Corner Lot. .). For details contact the CGCC President Dale Reesor at 416-286-9561.

Out of Town Events
Mennonite Central Committee Ontario Updates:
* No One Asks for it! MCC will join thousands across Canada on May 4 in wearing purple in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month and want you to join us!  RSVP on the Facebook page and spread the word!
* New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale
       May 25, 5:30 - 9:30 pm and May 26, 7:00 am to 4:00 pm New Hamburg Fairgrounds
      Fun for the whole family. Scrumptious Mennonite food, kid's area, quilt auction, furniture auction and much more.  All proceeds go to MCC. For more info, visit nhmrs.com or call 519-745-8458.
* Save the Date for MCC Ontario's New AGM - Thursday June 14, 6-9pm at Tavistock Mennonite Church. The new Annual General Meeting grounds our work in you, the church, through Accountability, Transparency and Responsiveness. Along with the business agenda, enjoy worship and inspiring storytelling from MCCO staff in Asia.  More details to come, but please plan to join us!
* Join MCC in “Raising Hope” at the new 50 Kent structure. Your financial support will make a difference today, tomorrow and for decades to come! See brochure insert in you church mailboxes. Contact Dan Driedger at dand@mennonitecc.on.ca if you have any questions.
* Your generosity has provided buckets of clean water, textbooks for students and life-changing opportunities like small-business and agricultural training. Your gifts support communities as they work for lasting solutions to poverty and injustice. See copies of the MCC 2012 Spring Update on shelf in foyer for further details.

Yella 2012 May 6 - 29, 2012
A Middle Eastern Tour for Young Adults
 
Sat., June 16 - Annual meeting of Mennonite Historical Society of Ontario 10:00 pm, at Vineland United Mennonite Church, 3327 Menno Street, Vineland. Presentation by Dr. Jonathan Seiling, "Mennonites, Neighbours and Enemies during the War of 1812." Seiling has done extensive research on the Peace Churches' response to the War of 1812. There is also an afternoon bus tour of Mennonite sites related to the War. Buses leave Rockway Mennonite Collegiate at 8:00 a.m. and return by 6:00 p.m. For further information and to reserve bus seats ($40/$30 for students) contact Sam Steiner at mhso@uwaterloo.ca; or call 519-884-1040. See posting in foyer. Archives Service During Construction.
The Mennonite Archives of Ontario will be open for visitors during construction. Making an appointment in advance is highly recommended.
During construction, we are limiting archival donations. Congregations can still send in their records from the previous year. Donations of all other records and books need to be discussed with the archivist in advance. We anticipate this restriction will be lifted in the fall of 2013. Please direct any questions to the archivist, Laureen Harder-Gissing, lharderg@uwaterloo.ca, 519-885-0220 x24238. Thank you for your patience as we embark on this exciting next chapter!

MCEC Highlighted Events
* MCEC Junior Youth Retreat - June 1-3, 2012, at Silver Lake Mennonite Camp. Registration Deadline is April 16, 2012. For details contact mmoua@mcec.ca Mollee Moua.

Mennonite Church Canada Assembly 2012 July 12 to 15, Vancouver, British Columbia, if you would like to attend visit www.mennonitechurch.ca/vancouver2012 or see  registration information in your mailboxes.

Canadian Mennonite University Updates:
* “Youth Ministry as School of Love” is a youth ministry conference planned for June 1 - 2 at CMU. Associated with the conference is an intensive week long course that can be taken for graduate or undergraduate credit.  The conference and course will feature Mark Yaconelli and Michael Hryniuk.  Participants can register for this conference separately or participate as part of the week long course.  Details and registration information can be found at www.cmu.ca
* Canadian Mennonite University (CMU) invites inquiries and applications for five positions: Development Associate (FT), Accounting Assistant (FT), Enrolment Counselor (FT), Enrolment Counselor (12 wks), Outtatown Program Manager (FT). Direct inquiries to Dianna Robson, Director of Human Resources at drobson@cmu.ca. Visit http://www.cmu.ca/employment.html
* Apply now for CMUs Redekop School of Business. Scholarships for transfer and first-year students are available. See what being a part of the CMU community is all about. Contact zpeters@cmu.ca.
* Come learn about Women and Peacebuilding with Ouyporn Khuankaew and Anna Snyder at the Canadian School of Peacebuilding, June 25 - 29, 2012.  See csop.cmu.ca or csop@cmu.ca for more information.

PRAISE GOD!
We are grateful to God for the ministries of Mennonite Church Canada’s partner in the Philippines, Peacebuilders Community Inc. Currently, Peacebuilders is training people to lead Peace and Reconciliation (PAR) teams in the southern Philippine island of Mindanao. Mennonite Church Canada worker Dann Pantoja reported that 18 key leaders completed the 3-month PAR Seminar last fall. PBCI continues with its commitment to train 80 PAR teams: one for each of the Philippine provinces (Witness Worker Update, pg. 9.)
Praise God for the energy and enthusiasm Mennonite Church Canada workers Andrew and Karen Suderman have shared with the growing Anabaptist Network in South Africa. Based in Pietermaritzburg, the Sudermans are enriching the church in South Africa by helping people rediscover the Gospel of reconciling love, peace and justice. They will return to Canada in mid-May for a time of Canadian ministry. (Witness Worker Update, pg. 10.)

Notes
This is how your financial support of Mennonite Church Canada is ministering...from across the street to around the world!  We deeply appreciate your prayer and financial support for Mennonite Church Canada’s ministries. Together as the National Church, Area Churches, congregations and individuals, we serve God by growing leaders for the church, forming a people of God and building the global church.

The New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale is looking for the following: volunteers for waste management; donations of new items for the Silent, Outdoors or Furniture auctions. For details see nhmrs.com or contact Ross at rsshantz@gmail.com.

Go and Grow Fund
Is your congregation considering a new initiative that connects with other congregations and/or your community? Contact Jeff Steckley, MCEC Congregational Ministries Minister, to discover if Go and Grow monies can enable or extend your ministry! Download more information and the 2012 application form today!




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Welcome to
Rouge Valley         
Mennonite Church
Sunday school for all ages 10:00am
Worship Service 11:00 a.m.

April 22, 2012

Ushers: Paul W. Reesor, Ron de Roo, John David Ashworth, Song Leader: Louise Pogue, Pianist: Freda Burkholder, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman, John David Ashworth.

Prelude
Welcome & Ministries of the People
Hymn HWB 89 For the beauty of the earth
Hymn SJ 49 Rain down
Call to Prayer SJ 59 Come and fill our hearts
Confession
Bringing or needs and joys before God
Hymn SJ 29 You are all we have
Hymn SS 47 Let the Children come to me!
Children’s Time
Offering Prayer
Offertory Hymn SJ 91 Like a mother who has borne us
Child Care
Scripture Reading Ephesians 1:15-23 (pg. 949 in Bibles)
Speaker Pastor Pieter Niemeyer
Hymn HWB 288 Rejoice, the Lord is king!
Benediction

    - Potluck celebration for Pat’s retirement.

CONGREGATIONAL CALENDAR
This week
Tues., Apr. 24 – Congregational Care Elders meeting 9:00am at Trudy Burkholder’s.
    - Beavers meet at the church 6:45 to 8:30pm.
    - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.

Wed., Apr. 25 – Women’s Prayer group meets 2:00pm at Evelyn Burkholder’s.

Sun., Apr. 29 - Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Ron de Roo, Paul W. Reesor, John David Ashworth, Song Leader: Ellie Nash, Pianist: Elinor Hansen, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.
       – Finger food potluck then short congregational meeting after to give updates regarding ministries of the congregation. (Note date change was Sun., May 6.)

Coming up:
Tues., May 1 –Leadership Elders meeting 9:15am at the church.
    - Beavers meet at the church 6:45 to 8:30pm.
    - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.
    - Women’s Bible study 7:00pm at the church.

Thurs., May 3 - Sewing Circle meets in the Cedar Grove Meetinghouse 9:30am to 3:30pm. Please bring a bag lunch if you will be staying over the lunch hour, coffee will be provided. All are welcome.

Sun., May 6 - Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Richard Ackerman, Dale Reesor, Bob Harder, Song Leader: Mark Schaub, Pianist: Lisa Schaub, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.

Community Events:
Sun., May 6 – at 3:00 p.m. Pax Christi Chorale 25th anniversary gala concert at beautiful Koerner Hall.  The Kingdom by Edward Elgar. Pre-concert chat at 2:00 pm. For tickets, www.paxchristichorale.org/tickets or ask Hugh Laurence to pick up your tickets.

Sat., May 12 – Walk Against Poverty, registration 7:30am walk at 9:00am, Richmond Green Sports Centre & Park (1300 Elgin Mills Rd. East, Richmond Hill). The Society of St. Vincent de Paul York South Particular Council together with Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold are organizing this event. Register online visit www.miotc.ca or call 416-948-6682 or 905-717-9827.


Sat., May 12 - Spring Fling Ladies Breakfast, 9:00 to 11:00am at the church. Speaker: Dr Jane Philpott, Chief, Department of Family Medicine, Markham Stouffville Hospital; also works with Give a Day, Stephen Lewis Foundation and more. Theme: Women who have inspired me. Music: Carol Lin, Director Music, Grace Christian Reformed Church. Proceeds:  Give a Day, a grassroots response to the HIV pandemic in Africa. Cost: $15.00. Please reserve seating by May 7. Call Anna Reesor 905-640-2118 or Mary Lymburner 905-591-1370.

Pursuing Peace in Home and Native Land: Between May 31 and June 2, 2012, at the Sheraton Hotel in Toronto, The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada will be hosting a powerful event exploring the impact of Indian Residential Schools on both indigenous and settler peoples.  As a people passionate about peacemaking, Mennonites have been invited to come and learn the history, explore life-giving relationships, and discover ways to undo present colonialism. Mennonite Church Canada and MCEC encourage congregations to support the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's process.

Mark your calendars for Cedarena celebrating 85 years, Sat., July 14, 2:00 to 10:00pm (7373 Reesor Rd.). Advance tickets only $25 per person, BBQ supper at 5:00pm. Visit www.cedarena.ca for details or contact Gary Mount 905-294-0038. See posting in foyer.

Out of Town Events
Apr. 27 -28 – MCEC annual church gathering, UMEI, Leamington, ON. Leadership for a Transformed and Sent People.

Notes
This is how your financial support of Mennonite Church Canada is ministering...from across the street to around the world! Thank you for supporting the ministry of Mennonite Church Canada workers, Erv and Marian Wiens, as they consolidate relationships and make preparations to leave South Korea. Their current term ends in April.

The Outtatown Discipleship School is a dynamic faith formation program that takes young adults out of their comfort zone and into a unique journey of learning, faith and adventure. As you read the stories in our spring newsletter (see posting in foyer) you will see that God is doing some amazing things in the lives of our students. If you would like more information visit website at www.uttatown.com where you can follow stories, explore a site blog or see a video.

Pray with CPT for the people of Hebron (Al-Khalil) as Palestinians and their international allies face disproportionate force from the Israeli military as compared to Israeli settlers. Pray for just treatment among all peoples in the area.

Mennonite Central Committee Updates:
* Join MCC in “Raising Hope” at the new 50 Kent structure. Your financial support will make a difference today, tomorrow and for decades to come! See brochure insert in you church mailboxes. Contact Dan Driedger at dand@mennonitecc.on.ca if you have any questions.
* Your generosity has provided buckets of clean water, textbooks for students and life-changing opportunities like small-business and agricultural training. Your gifts support communities as they work for lasting solutions to poverty and injustice. See copies of the MCC 2012 Spring Update on shelf in foyer for further details.



______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Welcome to
Rouge Valley         
Mennonite Church
Sunday school for all ages 10:00am
Worship Service 11:00 a.m.

April 15, 2012

Ushers: Paul W. Reesor, Ron de Roo, John David Ashworth, Song Leader: Louise Pogue, Pianist: Julie Nash, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.

Prelude
Welcome & Ministries of the People
Passing the Peace of Christ
Call to Prayer SJ 19 I will call upon the Lord
Prayers of the People
Children’s Time
Hymn SJ 11 Praise, Praise, praise the Lord!
Hymn SJ 16 Praise with joy the world’s Creator
Offering Prayer
Offertory SS 91 Star of the morning
Child Care
Scripture Reading Ephesians 1:3-14 (pg. 949 in Bibles)
Speaker Pastor Pieter Niemeyer
Hymn SJ 38 Beloved, God’s chosen
Benediction

- Long Term Visioning meeting after worship in Hospitality Room, please bring a bag lunch.

CONGREGATIONAL CALENDAR
This week
Tues., Apr. 17 – Living Room meeting 1:00 to 2:30pm at the church.
    - Beavers meet at the church 6:45 to 8:30pm.
    - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.
    - Women’s Bible study 7:00pm at the church in the Hospitality Room.

Thurs., Apr. 19 – Ministry Council meeting 7:00pm at the church in the Hospitality Room.

Sun., Apr. 22 - Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Ron de Roo, Paul W. Reesor, John David Ashworth, Song Leader: Louise Pogue, Pianist: Freda Burkholder, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.
    - Potluck celebration for Pat’s retirement.

Coming up:
Tues., Apr. 24 – Congregational Care Elders meeting 9:00am at Trudy Burkholder’s.
    - Beavers meet at the church 6:45 to 8:30pm.
    - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.

Wed., Apr. 25 – Women’s Prayer group meets 2:00pm at Evelyn Burkholder’s.

Sun., Apr. 29 - Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Ron de Roo, Paul W. Reesor, John David Ashworth, Song Leader: Ellie Nash, Pianist: Elinor Hansen, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.
        – Finger food potluck then short congregational meeting after to give updates regarding ministries of the congregation. (Note date change was Sun., May 6.)

Community Events:
All are invited to Parkview’s 10th Annual “Celebration of Spring”, an evening in support of Parkview Services for Seniors, on Friday April 20th, 2012 at East Ridge Missionary Church.  Reception is at 6:00 pm, dinner at 6:30 and tickets are $85.00 per person with a charitable receipt being issued for a portion of the cost.  The evening will include a silent auction, and musical entertainment provided by Tenor Mark Schaub & pianist Shaya Petroff, and local members of Pax Christi Chorale.  Tickets can be purchased by calling Parkview Village (905) 640-1940 ext. 21 or Parkview Home (905) 640-1911 ext. 221, or in person at the front desk of either site.

Sat., May 12 – Walk Against Poverty, registration 7:30am walk at 9:00am, Richmond Green Sports Centre & Park (1300 Elgin Mills Rd. East, Richmond Hill). The Society of St. Vincent de Paul York South Particular Council together with Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold are organizing this event. Register online visit www.miotc.ca or call 416-948-6682 or 905-717-9827. If you would like to pledge sponsors for this event please see Samara Niemeyer at table in foyer.
        - Spring Fling Ladies Breakfast, 9:00 to 11:00am at the church. Speaker: Dr Jane Philpott, Chief, Department of Family Medicine, Markham Stouffville Hospital; also works with Give a Day, Stephen Lewis Foundation and more. Theme: Women who have inspired me. Music: Carol Lin, Director Music, Grace Christian Reformed Church. Proceeds:  Give a Day, a grassroots response to the  HIV pandemic in Africa
Cost: $15.00. Please reserve seating by May 7. Call Anna Reesor 905-640-2118 or Mary Lymburner 905-591-1370.

Pursuing Peace in Home and Native Land: Between May 31 and June 2, 2012, at the Sheraton Hotel in Toronto, The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada will be hosting a powerful event exploring the impact of Indian Residential Schools on both indigenous and settler peoples.  As a people passionate about peacemaking, Mennonites have been invited to come and learn the history, explore life-giving relationships, and discover ways to undo present colonialism. Mennonite Church Canada and MCEC encourge congregations to support the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's process.
More information will be posted on the TRC website and the MC Canada Resource Centre’s “Top 12 List for Truth and Reconciliation.”

Out of Town Events
Sat., Apr. 21 - Please join us for MEDA Waterloo Chapter’s Annual Spring Banquet at Crosshill Mennonite Church at 6:30pm (Registration – 6:00pm).  Keynote speaker is Nolan Andres from PeaceWorks. Tickets are $35/person. Register at www.meda.org/waterloo or call MEDA (519) 725-1633.
        – Riverdale Mennonite Church, Milbank, Ontario invites everyone to a community concert for all ages put on by the Riverdale youth at 7:00pm. They are pleased to have the Levi Denbok Band coming as well, check out details about the band at www.myspqace.com/levidenbok. Refreshments will be served following the concert. Admission will be a free will offering.

Apr. 27 -28 – MCEC annual church gathering, UMEI, Leamington, Ontario.

Sat., June 16 - Annual meeting of Mennonite Historical Society of Ontario 10:00 pm, at Vineland United Mennonite Church, 3327 Menno Street, Vineland. Presentation by Dr. Jonathan Seiling, "Mennonites, Neighbours and Enemies during the War of 1812." Seiling has done extensive research on the Peace Churches' response to the War of 1812. There is also an afternoon bus tour of Mennonite sites related to the War. Buses leave Rockway Mennonite Collegiate at 8:00 a.m. and return by 6:00 p.m. For further information and to reserve bus seats ($40/$30 for students) contact Sam Steiner at mhso@uwaterloo.ca; or call 519-884-1040. See posting in foyer.
         Archives Service During Construction - The Mennonite Archives of Ontario will be open for visitors during construction. Making an appointment in advance is highly recommended.
During construction, we are limiting archival donations. Congregations can still send in their records from the previous year. Donations of all other records and books need to be discussed with the archivist in advance. We anticipate this restriction will be lifted in the fall of 2013. Please direct any questions to the archivist, Laureen Harder-Gissing, lharderg@uwaterloo.ca, 519-885-0220 x24238. Thank you for your patience as we embark on this exciting next chapter!

Notes
This is how your financial support of Mennonite Church Canada is ministering...from across the street to around the world! Thank you to the Mennonite Church Canada youth pastors and sponsors who continually seek ways to invite our youth to join Christ’s mission in the world, and thank you to the many individuals and churches that support their efforts to build God’s Kingdom.

MCEC (Mennonite Church Eastern Canada) is pleased to provide congregations with the latest MCEC prayer card for Markham Christian Worship Centre. (See your church mailbox.) MCEC walks along side many Spirit-filled leaders who are exploring relationships with MCEC. An exciting part of that collective ministry as a community is supporting emerging congregations and church plants.

CMU (Canadian Mennonite University) invites your prayers as students prepare to graduate. 92 students will graduate from the Outtatown program on April 15 and approximately 80 students will graduate from CMU on April 22.

Pray with CPT and its partners during a prayer vigil for peace in Colombia from 6 p.m., Saturday, April 14, to 6 pm Sunday, April 15.  Light a candle, sing, meditate, read a story, or just sit quietly in God’s presence.

Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) updates:
* Perth-Andover, NB is a community of only 1,700 that has experienced severe flooding. Nearly 500 people were affected including many seniors. MDS has been on location with other partners in the initial clean up and assessment, and in considering the potential of a longer-term presence. Please pray for this community.
* Wildfires across southern Alberta have led to MDS Alberta Unit to assist local ranchers in rebuilding in Fort Macleod. Progress is being made thanks to any Alberta volunteers. Pray for safety and stamina as this progress continues.
* MDS is seeking someone to organize and coordinate a knitted Prayer Shawl Ministry. This person would motivate women’s groups and knitters to make shawls for MDS to present to clients with whom we work. Please contact Janet Plenert jplener5@mds.mennonite.net for information.


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Rouge Valley         
Mennonite Church

April 8, 2012
He Has Risen!

Focus statement: God said “Yes” to the world’s “no”, putting a stamp of approval on Jesus’ commitment to God’s way of life. We rejoice in the sign of the empty tomb. By the same power that raised Jesus from the dead, we are commissioned to witness to the new covenant. Will we, like the disciples and apostles, fully sign on and commit ourselves to proclaim and embody this good news to all nations?

Ushers: Paul W. Reesor, Ron de Roo, John David Ashworth, Song Leader: Louise Pogue, Pianist: Trevor Pogue, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman, Rachel Burkholder, Lys Laurence.

Prelude
Welcome & Ministries of the People
Opening Prayer
Call to Worship (Monitors)
Hymn HWB 273 Low in the grave he lay
Hymn HWB 280 Christ the Lord is risen today
Hymn SS 92 Sing with all the saints in glory
Confession (Bulletin)
Assurance
Scripture Reading Romans 6:1-14 (pg. 917 in Bibles)
Baptismal Candidates Testimonies: David Driedger & Simon Martin
Children’s Time
Baptism
Child Care
Hymn SJ 82 Water has held us
Speaker Pastor Pieter Niemeyer
Offering Prayer
Offertory Hymn SS 95 Jesus has done so much for me
Prayers of the People
Hymn SS 89 Christ is alive
Benediction

CONGREGATIONAL CALENDAR
This week
Tues., Apr. 10 - Beavers meet at the church 6:45 to 8:30pm.
    - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.

Sat., Apr. 14 - Spring is advancing daily and it is time for our annual church Spring Clean-up.  At a joint meeting with Church on the Rock it was decided that we would do this on Sat., Apr. 14th from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM with a BBQ lunch at mid-day. This is the 'organized' event day and many among us may choose to contribute on another day or come early and work late. (Rain date Sun., Apr. 28.)
Some items you might consider bringing: Stepladder, short or tall, extension ladder, wheelbarrow, rake, shovel, small or large, work gloves, bucket and rags, your favourite window washing equipment.  Good idea to put your name on your tools!

Sun., Apr. 15 - Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Ron de Roo, Paul W. Reesor, John David Ashworth, Song Leader: Louise Pogue, Pianist: Julie Nash, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.
- Long Term Visioning meeting after worship in Hospitality Room, please bring a bag lunch.

Coming up:
Tues., Apr. 17 – Living Room meeting 1:00 to 2:30pm at the church.
    - Beavers meet at the church 6:45 to 8:30pm.
    - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.
    - Women’s Bible study 7:00pm at the church in the Hospitality Room.

Thurs., Apr. 19 – Ministry Council meeting 7:00pm at the church in the Hospitality Room.

Sun., Apr. 22 - Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Ron de Roo, Paul W. Reesor, John David Ashworth, Song Leader: Louise Pogue, Pianist: Freda Burkholder, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.
    - Potluck celebration for Pat’s retirement.

Sun., May 6 – Finger food potluck then short congregational meeting after to give updates regarding ministries of the congregation.

Community Events:
All are invited to Parkview’s 10th Annual “Celebration of Spring”, an evening in support of Parkview Services for Seniors, on Friday April 20th, 2012 at East Ridge Missionary Church.  Reception is at 6:00 pm, dinner at 6:30 and tickets are $85.00 per person with a charitable receipt being issued for a portion of the cost.  The evening will include a silent auction, and musical entertainment provided by Tenor Mark Schaub & pianist Shaya Petroff, and local members of Pax Christi Chorale.  Tickets can be purchased by calling Parkview Village (905) 640-1940 ext. 21 or Parkview Home (905) 640-1911 ext. 221, or in person at the front desk of either site.

Sat., May 12 – Walk Against Poverty, registration 7:30am walk at 9:00am, Richmond Green Sports Centre & Park (1300 Elgin Mills Rd. East, Richmond Hill). The Society of St. Vincent de Paul York South Particular Council together with Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold are organizing this event. Register online visit www.miotc.ca or call 416-948-6682 or 905-717-9827. If you would like to pledge sponsors for this event please see Samara Niemeyer at table in foyer.

Sat., May 12 - Spring Fling Ladies Breakfast, 9:00 to 11:00am at the church. Speaker: Dr Jane Philpott, Chief, Department of Family Medicine, Markham Stouffville Hospital; also works with Give a Day, Stephen Lewis Foundation and more. Theme: Women who have inspired me. Music: Carol Lin, Director Music, Grace Christian Reformed Church. Proceeds:  Give a Day, a grassroots response to the
HIV pandemic in Africa. Cost: $15.00. Please reserve seating by May 7. Call Anna Reesor 905-640-2118 or Mary Lymburner 905-591-1370.
Out of Town Events:
Sat., Apr. 21 – Women of Mennonite Church Eastern Canada are invited to Spring Enrichment Day at Zurich Mennonite 9:30am to 3:30pm, with guest speaker Janine Schultz, theme “God’s Extravagant Grace”. See inserts in your church mailboxes for details. If you would like to attend please register by Apr. 10th.

Notes
Job Opportunity:  Rouge Valley Mennonite Church (RVMC) is seeking to fill the position of INTERIM CHURCH SECRETARY.  This is a part-time position (20-24 hrs/week) with an hourly salary of ~$14/hr.  Duties include providing administrative support and reception services.  A detailed job description is available at www.rvmc.ca.  Targeted start date is mid-April with the position likely ending in late August.  Application deadline is Monday, April 2.  Please send resume and cover letter to julie@rvmc.ca.

Congregational Ministries and Executive Assistant - Maternity Leave
MCEC invites applications for a three-quarter time position (28 hours/week) with attractive benefits, beginning May 16, 2012 for a one-year maternity leave. Working with the Administrative Team, this person will provide administrative support to the Congregational Ministries Minister and supplemental support to the Executive Minister. For more information: www:mcec.ca - click on Ministry Opportunity in top box - Newest Updates. Application Deadline: April 15, 2012

This is how your financial support of Mennonite Church Canada is ministering...from across the street to around the world! With your help, Mennonite Church Canada supports Peacebuilders Community’s program of training key Christian leaders to lead Peace and Reconciliation (PAR) teams in the southern Philippine island of Mindanao. Worker Dann Pantoja, reported that 18 key leaders completed the 3-month PAR Seminar last fall and will be promoting peacebuilding actions in their communities. Thank you for your support!

See the MDS Update for April 5, 2012 on shelf in foyer.

Our group subscription plan to The Mennonite is renewing. The Mennonite magazine for Mennonite Church USA, seeks to fulfill its mission of helping readers glorify God, grow in faith and become agents of healing and hope in the world through articles that challenge and inspire, news that connects readers to the larger Mennonite community and much more. If you are interested in joining our group plan, a one year subscription is $39.00, please contact the church office by April 15. 

Work and Serve with MCC Ontario
MCC Ontario currently has four positions open.  Please go to mcco.ca/work for more information or contact Cath Woolner at 519-745-8458 or cathw@mennonitecc.on.ca.
* Poverty Advocacy Associate (Kitchener or Toronto)
* Computer Support Associate (Kitchener)
* Research Assistant, Circles of Support and Accountability (Kitchener)
* Circles of Care Coordinator (Kitchener)
Attawapiskat Update
The Building Hope team continue to repair homes in Attawapiskat with community members both supporting and assisting in the work.  The removal of mold and structural renovations have been greatly appreciated, but the construction that is most significant are the sound and sturdy relationships. View a slideshow of the team at mcco.ca/aboriginal.    

Give thanks for Muhammad Salah Mahdi, CPT Iraqi Kurdistan partner, who demonstrated for reform in the Kurdish Regional Government when the new prime minister visited Suleimaniya recently. Pray for others to join him in working for a fair, honest government.

CONFESSION
God, with all creation we rejoice in the resurrection, in your “Yes!” to the world’s “No.”
Yet we also confess that we often choose the path of death instead of allowing you to transform
us with the same power that raised Jesus from the dead. Honour our pledge to love you,
to become witnesses to your good news, as we sign our names in bold script on your
new covenant. Amen.




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Welcome to
Rouge Valley         
Mennonite Church
Sunday school for all ages 10:00am
Worship Service 11:00 a.m.

April 1, 2012
Focus statement: With the psalmist and the prophet Isaiah, we give thanks for God’s goodness and trust in God to save us, as Jesus did. Jesus’ mindset of servanthood led to a ride down into Jerusalem, toward scorn and suffering, an authentic sign of God’s steadfast love. Even when we break the covenant, its initiator is willing to pay the price to keep it.

Ushers: Paul W. Reesor, Ron de Roo, John David Ashworth, Song Leader: Mark Schaub, Pianist: Lisa Schaub, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman, Letitia Wise.
Prelude
Welcome & Ministries of the People
Opening Prayer
Call to Worship (Monitors)
Hymn SS 34 You are holy
Hymn HWB 238 Hosanna, loud hosanna
Confession
Assurance (Monitors)
Scripture Telling Mark 11:1-11 (pg. 823 in Bibles)
Children’s Time
Speaker Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman
Offering Prayer
Offertory
Prayers of the People
Hymn HWB 530 What wondrous love is this
Benediction

CONGREGATIONAL CALENDAR
This week
Tues., Apr. 3- Living Room meeting 1:00 to 2:30pm at the church.
    - Beavers meet at the church 6:45 to 8:30pm.
    - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.
    - Ad Hoc Search Committee meeting for church secretary 7:00pm at Julie Konrad’s.

Wed., Apr. 4 – OOTC Volunteer Appreciation evening 6:30pm at the church. Please come and enjoy pizza, fellowship and share your stories.

Thurs., Apr. 5 - Sewing Circle 9:30am to 3:30pm in Cedar Grove Meetinghouse. If you are staying over the lunch hour please bring a sack lunch, coffee provided. All are welcome.
        - Maundy Thursday service light meal, footwashing and communion 6:30pm at the church. For planning purposes, please contact the church office if you plan on attending.

Sun., Apr. 8 - Jesus is Risen! Easter Sunday, Breakfast 9:30am at the church. If your last name begins with A to I bring fruit, and from J to Z bring sweet breads or muffins or small dinner rolls. Bring all food cut and ready on plate or tray.  Jr. Sunday school children go to your classes after breakfast, Adult Sunday school classes please meet in the sanctuary for singing after breakfast.
Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Ron de Roo, Paul W. Reesor, John David Ashworth, Song Leader: Louise Pogue, Pianist: Trevor Pogue, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman, Baptism: David Driedger & Simon Martin.
Coming up:
Tues., Apr. 10 - Beavers meet at the church 6:45 to 8:30pm.
    - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.

Sat., Apr. 14 - Spring is advancing daily and it is time for our annual church Spring Clean-up.  At a joint meeting with Church on the Rock it was decided that we would do this on Sat., Apr. 14th from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM with a BBQ lunch at mid-day. This is the 'organized' event day and many among us may choose to contribute on another day or come early and work late. (Rain date Sun., Apr. 28.)

Sun., Apr. 15 - Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Ron de Roo, Paul W. Reesor, John David Ashworth, Song Leader: Louise Pogue, Pianist: Julie Nash, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.

Sun., Apr. 22 – Potluck celebration for Pat’s retirement, after worship service.

Sun., May 6 – Finger food potluck then short congregational meeting after to give updates regarding ministries of the congregation.

Community Events:
Sun., Apr. 1– Lenten Sunday Evening service 7:00pm at Markham Missionary Church, 5438 Major Mackenzie Dr., Markham. The Markham-Unionville Ministerial is organizing Sunday
Evening Lenten Services from Feb. 26 to April 1. The topic for these evenings will be “The Unchanging Significance of the Atonement” by Reverend Joe Boot.

 "Raising Hope" at the New 50 Kent –Wed., Apr. 4th at 7:00pm Rouge Valley Mennonite Church. Be part of the campaign to grow MCC and partner capacity with a new building at 50 Kent. Catch the vision, see the plans, and hear how to be part of the fundraising. Special invitation to Congregational MCC Reps, and pastors. Everyone welcome.

Fri., Apr. 6 – Good Friday service 10:30am at Rouge Valley. This service will include hymns, scripture readings, prayers and a series of fictional monologues by disciples who failed to follow Jesus to the cross and one who was with Jesus when he died. We will also have the opportunity to share communion with brothers and sisters from four of the Mennonite Churches in the Markham-Stouffville area.

All are invited to Parkview’s 10th Annual “Celebration of Spring”, an evening in support of Parkview Services for Seniors, on Friday April 20th, 2012 at East Ridge Missionary Church.  Reception is at 6:00 pm, dinner at 6:30 and tickets are $85.00 per person with a charitable receipt being issued for a portion of the cost.  The evening will include a silent auction, and musical entertainment provided by Tenor Mark Schaub & pianist Shaya Petroff, and local members of Pax Christi Chorale.  Tickets can be purchased by calling Parkview Village (905) 640-1940 ext. 21 or Parkview Home (905) 640-1911 ext. 221, or in person at the front desk of either site.

Sat., May 12 – Walk Against Poverty, registration 7:30am walk at 9:00am, Richmond Green Sports Centre & Park (1300 Elgin Mills Rd. East, Richmond Hill). The Society of St. Vincent de Paul York South Particular Council together with Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold are organizing this event. Register online visit www.miotc.ca or call 416-948-6682 or 905-717-9827. If you would like to pledge sponsors for this event please see Samara Niemeyer at table in foyer.

Notes
Job Opportunity:  Rouge Valley Mennonite Church (RVMC) is seeking to fill the position of INTERIM CHURCH SECRETARY.  This is a part-time position (20-24 hrs/week) with an hourly salary of ~$14/hr.  Duties include providing administrative support and reception services.  A detailed job description is available at www.rvmc.ca.  Targeted start date is mid-April with the position likely ending in late August.  Application deadline is Monday, April 2.  Please send resume and cover letter to julie@rvmc.ca.

See updated copy of April 2012 church directory in your church mailboxes. If you would like an electronic copy please contact the church office. Please be reminded that this directory is not for public use. Please pay particular attention to the changes made on the phone chain lists.

Congratulations to Daniel and Jessica Burkholder on the arrival of Adalyn Marie Burkholder, born February 9, 2012, the first grandchild for Bob and Jill Burkholder. Address information is available from the church office.

Pray for the CPT-hosted German delegation to Treaty #3 Territory, visiting Grassy Narrows First Nation and Kenora April 2–15. Pray for open eyes and hearts to learn about the effects of colonialism and the efforts of the Anishnaabe to resist, and for new partnerships to emerge.

“Mennonites Everywhere” is the name of a new series of short videos to help congregations dispel myths that you need to have a certain surname or eat a certain kind of ethnic food to be part of a Mennonite congregation. The first video features NHL hockey player Nick Spaling (Nashville Predators). Watch it here: www.mennonitechurch.ca/tiny/1. Future videos will feature people from all walks of life. If you or someone you know would be interested in being featured in a future video (public profile not required), email office@mennonitechurch.ca.





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Rouge Valley
Mennonite Church   
Announcement Sheet

April 1, to April 29, 2012

Community Events
Community Euchre held the first Monday of the month at 7:30pm at Heritage United Church. Bring a friend, Have some fun! Cost one loonie. Refreshments served.

CGCC (Cedar Grove Community Club) monthly meeting held the third Monday of the month at 8:00pm January to May. Sept., Oct., and Nov. at the Community Centre.

Gib Whittamore’s 90th Birthday Celebration, Sat., Apr. 1, from 2:00-5:00pm, at Heritage United Church. Please spread the word. Best wishes only, please.

Sat., Apr. 21 – CGCC 2012 Annual Spring Garbage Pick up at 8:00am followed by BBQ lunch at the Community Centre.

The Kingdom ~ Edward Elgar. Koerner Hall, Toronto ~ Sunday, May 6, 2012 at 3:00 p.m.; Pre-concert chat at 2:00 pm. Pax Christi Chorale - Toronto’s Mennonite Choir, under the direction of Artistic Director Stephanie Martin performs Elgar’s rarely heard masterpiece The Kingdom with full orchestra. The performance features British baritone sensation Roderick Williams and outstanding Canadian soloists Shannon Mercer, Krisztina Szabo,and Keith Klassen. For tickets, please visit www.paxchristichorale.org/tickets or Hugh Laurence is also willing to pick up your tickets.

June 2 - This Treasure in Clay Jars, Sexuality, Marriage, and the Body – One-Day Symposium hosted by the Toronto Mennonite Theological Centre, at the Toronto School of Theology, Toronto Mennonite Theological Centre 47 Queen’s Park Cres., East Toronto, visit grebel.ca/tmtc/events.shtml or contact Sarah Freeman at mennonite.centre@utoronto.ca (416) 978-6078 for  details.

Mark your Calendars for the following Community Events:
* Canada Day Picnic & BBQ, Baseball & Fireworks Fri. June 29, 6:30pm at the Corner Lot, (corner of Reesor Rd. and Steeles Ave.).
* Friday night community baseball throughout the summer at the Corner Lot. .). For details contact the CGCC President Dale Reesor at 416-286-9561.

Out of Town Events
Mennonite Central Committee Ontario Updates:
* Capital Fundraising Dessert Events: As part of our efforts to stay well connected to pastors, reps and congregations we will be discussing our capital campaign and potential supportive roles. Please join us on April 4 in the Stouffville/Markham area location TBA.

For First Generation Canadian Congregations and Congregations Working with New Immigrants Journey of Healing and Empowerment: a workshop to support the mental health and well being of refugees during the settlement process. Mennonite Central Committee is offering an interactive workshop on a holistic approach to raising awareness of the issues which refugees face during the settlement process, including living with trauma and depression.  Participants will learn how to support and assess mental health and emotional well-being, while building socially supportive networks and strong communities. This workshop is for refugees, newcomers to Canada, and church and community group members who both support and befriend refugees. This workshop is facilitated by Moses Moini (MCCO) and Karen Smith (Healing Streams).  April 14 2012, Erb Street Mennonite Church, 131 Erb St W, Waterloo, 9:00am to 12:30pm. More information and to register or call 905.646.3161. This is not an MCEC workshop but is endorsed by MCEC.

Save the Date for MCC Ontario's New AGM - Thursday June 14, 6-9pm at Tavistock Mennonite Church. The new Annual General Meeting grounds our work in you, the church, through Accountability, Transparency and Responsiveness. Along with the business agenda, enjoy worship and inspiring storytelling from MCCO staff in Asia.  More details to come, but please plan to join us!

MCEC Highlighted Events
* Youth Bible Quizzing
April 14, 2012
East Zorra Mennonite Church
* MCEC Annual Church Gathering
April 27 - 28, 2012
UMEI, Leamington, ON

Paraguay Primeval Concert: 7:00 pm, April 15, 2012, Waterloo-Kitchener Mennonite Church, 15 George Street, Waterloo. Carol Ann Weaver, Rebecca Campbell and friends perform original music which celebrates the Mennonite story in Paraguay. All welcome. Good will offering. This piece is about Russian and Canadian Mennonites who formed colonies in the formidable Paraguayan Chaco. 

Many were fleeing for their lives. Original music by Carol Ann Weaver, professor, Conrad Grebel College. Texts are from Rudy Wiebe, Dora Dueck, and Paraguayan Mennonite settlers as translated by Henry and Esther Regehr.  Reception to follow: Paraguayan Cakes, Tea and Coffee. CDs available with all proceeds for MCC work with indigenous people of Paraguay.
Fri., Apr. 20, 8:00pm & Sat., Apr. 21, 2:00 and 8:00pm, at the Conrad Centre for Performing Arts, (36 King St. W. Kitchener) “Gadfly: Sam Steiner dodges the draft”, an original play written and directed by University of Waterloo drama student Rebecca Steiner, starring John Wideman, Rebecca Steiner, Kim Walker and Ben Wert. Presented by Mennonite Historical Society of Ontario Theater of the Beat. Tickets $25, students $15, visit kwsymphony.ca/conradcentre for call 519-745-4711. See posting in foyer for details.

Sat., Apr. 21 – MEDA Annual Spring Banquet at Crosshill Mennonite Church, 6:00pm reception, 6:30pm dinner. Cost is $35.00 proceeds go to MEDA Techno-Links Project. Keynote speaker Nolan Andres, Founder & CEO at PeaceWorks Technology Solutions. Register by April 16, www.meda.org/waterloo or call MEDA 519-725-1633

Mennonite Coalition for Refugee Support Celebrates 25 Years  - Join us at our 25th Anniversary Fundraising Banquet happening at Knox Presbyterian Church in Waterloo on Saturday April 21, 6:00 pm.  Tickets are $35.00 and are available at www.mcrs.ca/25years or call (519) 571-1912. Keynote speaker Dr. Ginette Lafrenière: "What we claim to be true: reflections on vulnerability and resiliency."
Canadian Mennonite University Updates:
* You are invited to a Concert & Dessert Fundraiser in support of CMU at UMEI, Leamington, on Saturday April 28, 6:45 p.m.  The theme of the evening “Celebrating a Vision for Christian University Education” will be addressed by Gerald Gerbrandt and feature the CMU Singers.  To reserve a place call Sheryl Penner at 1.877.231.4570 or email shpenner@cmu.ca.  (See posting.)
*  “Youth Ministry as School of Love” is a youth ministry conference planned for June 1 - 2 at CMU. Associated with the conference is an intensive week long course that can be taken for graduate or undergraduate credit.  The conference and course will feature Mark Yaconelli and Michael Hryniuk.  Participants can register for this conference separately or participate as part of the week long course.  Details and registration information can be found at www.cmu.ca
Canadian Mennonite University (CMU) invites inquiries and applications for five positions: Development Associate (FT), Accounting Assistant (FT), Enrolment Counsellor (FT), Enrolment Counsellor (12 wks), Outtatown Program Manager (FT). Direct inquiries to Dianna Robson, Director of Human Resources at drobson@cmu.ca. Visit http://www.cmu.ca/employment.html
 Apply now for CMUs Redekop School of Business. Scholarships for transfer and first-year students are available. See what being a part of the CMU community is all about. Contact zpeters@cmu.ca.
 Come learn about Women and Peacebuilding with Ouyporn Khuankaew and Anna Snyder at the Canadian School of Peacebuilding, June 25 - 29, 2012.  See csop.cmu.ca or csop@cmu.ca for more information.

MCEC Junior Youth Retreat - June 1-3, 2012, at Silver Lake Mennonite Camp. Registration Deadline is April 16, 2012. For details contact mmoua@mcec.ca Mollee Moua.

Mennonite Church Canada Assembly 2012 July 12 to 15, Vancouver, British Columbia, if you would like to attend visit www.mennonitechurch.ca/vancouver2012 or see  registration information in your mailboxes.

Notes
This is how your financial support of Mennonite Church Canada is ministering...from across the street to around the world!  Thank you to the many volunteer leaders who gathered for the Mennonite Church Canada Spring Leadership Assembly March 7-10 and especially to the hosting congregations for their warm hospitality as the national church meets across the country throughout the year. This spring the Women’s Coordinating Committee, volunteers and staff of First Mennonite Church of Winnipeg served Mennonite Church Canada’s leadership with meeting rooms and food. Thank you!

MCEC Ministry Opportunity
Congregational Mniistries and Executive Assistant - Maternity Leave
MCEC invites applications for a three-quarter time position (28 hours/week) with attractive benefits, beginning May 16, 2012 for a one-year maternity leave. Working with the Administrative Team, this person will provide administrative support to the Congregational Ministries Minister and supplemental support to the Executive Minister. More Information  Application Deadline: April 15, 2012

Earth Day E-Waste Drive. From April 10-22, donate your old electronics at participating thrift shops and raise money for sustainability features of the new 50 Kent building project.

The roles of Mennonite Church Canada International Ministries staff, Tim Froese, Gordon Janzen and Hippolyto Tshimanga, include continuous discernment. Together, they discern opportunities for involvement with ministry partners, God’s call upon people into specific service opportunities, and next steps once service journeys begin. Pray that God will grant Tim, Gordon and Hippo the insight, courage and sensitivity they need to walk with many individuals through the discernment process.

Every Child to Camp! Summer camp is an important tool in the faith development of our children. Silver Lake Mennonite Camp still has some space available and has subsidies available to ensure every child can experience camp this summer. Contact the camp office at 519-422-1401 or www.slmc.ca


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Welcome to
Rouge Valley         
Mennonite Church
Sunday school for all ages 10:00am
Worship Service 11:00 a.m.

March 25, 2012

Focus statement: God promises to write a new covenant with us, and the Spirit has chosen our hearts as the parchment on which to sign God’s name. Like Jesus, we can surrender ourselves so that our lives might be signs pointing to God through the fruit that we bear.

Ushers: Randy Moyle, Angelina Reesor, Karl Driedger, Song Leader: John Harder, Pianist: Elinor Hansen, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman, Phearom Nak, Taucha Inrig.

Prelude
Welcome & Ministries of the People
Opening Prayer
Call to Worship (Monitors)
Hymn HWB 65 Praise, my soul, the King of heaven!
Hymn HWB 504 Have thine own way
Confession (Bulletin)
Assurance
Scripture Reading Jeremiah 31: 31-34; Romans 5:1-11
Children’s Time
Speaker Pastor Pieter Niemeyer
Hymn HWB 396 The work is thine, O Christ
Offering Prayer
Offertory
Prayers of the People
Hymn They’ll know we are Christians (Monitors)
Benediction

CONGREGATIONAL CALENDAR
This week
Tues., Mar. 27 – Markham/Stouffville Ministerial noon at Paul Mo’s.
        - Staff/Worship planning meeting with pastors and administrator 3:30pm at RV.
        - Beavers meet at the church 6:45 to 8:30pm.
        - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.

Wed., Mar. 28– Women’s Prayer group meets at Evelyn Burkholder’s at 2:00pm.
    - Last evening for the Out of the Cold program 3:00pm to 8:00am Thursday morning. Volunteers are needed and appreciated; see white binder in foyer or speaker to Taucha Inrig.

Sun., Apr. 1 Palm Sunday – Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Ron de Roo, Paul W. Reesor, John David Ashworth, Song Leader: Mark Schaub, Pianist: Lisa Schaub, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman, Trisha Ashworth, Letitia Wise.

Coming up:
Tues., Apr. 3- Living Room meeting 1:00 to 2:30pm at the church.
    - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.
    - Ad Hoc Search Committee meeting for church secretary 7:00pm at Julie Konrad’s.

Wed., Apr. 4 – OOTC Volunteer Appreciation evening 6:30pm at the church. Please come and enjoy pizza, fellowship and share your stories.

Thurs., Apr. 5 – Sewing Circle 9:30am to 3:30pm in Cedar Grove Meetinghouse. If you are staying over the lunch hour please bring a sack lunch, coffee provided. All are welcome.
        - Maundy Thursday service light meal, footwashing and communion 6:30pm at the church. For planning purposes, please contact the church office if you plan on attending.

Sun., Apr. 8 - Jesus is Risen! Easter Sunday, Breakfast 9:30am at the church. If your last name begins with A to I bring fruit, and from J to Z bring sweet breads or muffins or small dinner rolls. Bring all food cut and ready on plate or tray.  Jr. Sunday school children go to your classes after breakfast, Adult Sunday school classes please meet in the sanctuary for singing after breakfast.
Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Ron de Roo, Paul W. Reesor, John David Ashworth, Song Leader: Louise Pogue, Pianist: Trevor Pogue, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.

Sat., Apr. 14 - Spring is advancing daily and it is time for our annual church Spring Clean-up.  At a joint meeting with Church on the Rock it was decided that we would do this on Sat., Apr. 14th from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM with a BBQ lunch at mid-day. This is the 'organized' event day and many among us may choose to contribute on another day or come early and work late. (Rain date Sun., Apr. 28.)

Community Events
Sun., Mar. 25– Lenten Sunday Evening service 7:00pm at The Rhenish (Lutheran) Church (2667 Bur Oak Ave. East of 9th Line, Markham). The Markham-Unionville Ministerial is organizing Sunday
Evening Lenten Services from Feb. 26 to April 1. The topic for these evenings will be “The Unchanging Significance of the Atonement” by Reverend Joe Boot.
Thurs., Mar. 29 – Confronting Israeli Power: Creating a viable future for the Palestinian people and a moral future for the Jewish people, with speaker Dr. Marc Ellis, 7:00pm at University of Toronto, 1 King’s College Circle, Medical Sciences Building, Rom 3154. See posting in foyer.

Sat., Mar. 31 – Come celebrate the work of MCC and raise funds for the Black Creek Pioneer Village Relief Sale! You are invited to our annual meeting at 6:30pm at Rouge Valley Mennonite Church. Dessert and homemade ice cream will be served at 6:30pm followed by our annual meeting, music by Rouge River Connection, a live auction to cover the costs of the sale and guest speaker Mike Tennant. This is a wonderful opportunity to hear about the work of MCC and support the Black Creek Pioneer Village Relief Sale. Hope to see you there!

Fri., Apr. 6 – Good Friday service 10:30am at Rouge Valley. This service will include hymns, scripture readings, prayers and a series of fictional monologues by disciples who failed to follow Jesus to the cross and one who was with Jesus when he died. We will also have the opportunity to share communion with brothers and sisters from four of the Mennonite Churches in the Markham-Stouffville area.

Sat., May 12 – Walk Against Poverty, registration 7:30am walk at 9:00am, Richmond Green Sports Centre & Park (1300 Elgin Mills Rd. East, Richmond Hill). The Society of St. Vincent de Paul York South Particular Council together with Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold are organizing this event. Register online visit www.miotc.ca or call 416-948-6682 or 905-717-9827. If you would like to pledge sponsors for this event please see Taucha Inrig to sign out a pledge form envelope. See posting in foyer for walk details.
Out of Town Events
Canadian Mennonite University   www.cmu.ca
You are invited to a Concert & Dessert Fundraiser in support of CMU at UMEI, Leamington, on Saturday April 28, 6:45 p.m.  The theme of the evening “Celebrating a Vision for Christian University Education” will be addressed by Gerald Gerbrandt and feature the CMU Singers.  To reserve a place call Sheryl Penner at 1.877.231.4570 or email shpenner@cmu.ca.  

Sat., Apr. 21 - Please join us for MEDA Waterloo Chapter’s Annual Spring Banquet at Crosshill Mennonite Church 6:00pm.  Keynote speaker is Nolan Andres from PeaceWorks.  Tickets are
$35/person. Register at www.meda.org/waterloo or call MEDA (519) 725-1633.

Save the Date for MCC Ontario's New AGM - Thursday June 14, 6-9pm at Tavistock Mennonite Church. The new Annual General Meeting grounds our work in you, the church, through Accountability, Transparency and Responsiveness. Along with the business agenda, enjoy worship and inspiring storytelling from MCCO staff in Asia.  More details to come, but please plan to join us!

Mennonite Church Canada Assembly 2012 July 12 to 15, Vancouver, British Columbia, if you would like to attend visit www.mennonitechurch.ca/vancouver2012 or see  registration information in your mailboxes.

See MDS Update for March, 22, 2012 on shelf in foyer.

Notes
Mennonite Church Canada Assembly 2012 July 12 to 15, Vancouver, British Columbia, if you would like to attend visit www.mennonitechurch.ca/vancouver2012 or see  registration information in your mailboxes.

Job Opportunity:  Rouge Valley Mennonite Church (RVMC) is seeking to fill the position of INTERIM CHURCH SECRETARY.  This is a part-time position (20-24 hrs/week) with an hourly salary of ~$14/hr.  Duties include providing administrative support and reception services.  A detailed job description is available at www.rvmc.ca.  Targeted start date is mid-April with the position likely ending in late August.  Application deadline is Monday, April 2.  Please send resume and cover letter to julie@rvmc.ca.

Earth Day E-Waste Drive. From April 10-22, donate your old electronics at participating thrift shops and raise money for sustainability features of the new 50 Kent building project.

MCEC Ministry Opportunity
Congregational Ministries and Executive Assistant - Maternity Leave
MCEC invites applications for a three-quarter time position (28 hours/week) with attractive benefits, beginning May 16, 2012 for a one-year maternity leave. Working with the Administrative Team, this person will provide administrative support to the Congregational Ministries Minister and supplemental support to the Executive Minister. More Information
Application Deadline: April 15, 2012

Please hold Stephanie Martin, Artistic Director and Conductor of Pax Christi Chorale in your prayers.  While on vacation in Cuba, her husband, and Pax Christi Chorale's rehearsal accompanist, Bruce Kirkpatrick Hill, became gravely ill with complications resulting from his kidney disease.  He died in hospital on Saturday March 17.  The Requiem Mass for Bruce Hill was held on Saturday, March 24 at 12:30 pm at The Anglican Church of St. Mary Magdalene, 477 Manning Ave, Toronto.  Donations can be made at any Royal Bank branch for 30 days to the Bruce Kirkpatrick Hill Memorial Personal Tragedy Fund.  The family will then decide on the distribution of funds to the priorities Stephanie and Bruce have identified, which are the performance of sacred music, kidney research and the hospital in Cuba where he died.  Please hold Stephanie, her family and friends and Pax Christi Chorale in your prayers.

CONFESSION
    O God, according to your steadfast love, have mercy on me, a sinner.
    I have been unfaithful, done what is evil in your sight.
    You would be justified to punish me harshly – instead, hide your face from my sin,
    forgive me, cleanse me, renew me.
    Give me the intimate knowledge of you and your law
    that comes from following wherever you lead. Amen.


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Welcome to
Rouge Valley         
Mennonite Church
Sunday school for all ages 10:00am
Worship Service 11:00 a.m.

March 18, 2012
Focus statement: Looking to Jesus, we are saved from death, condemnation and the power of sin, just as the Israelites were saved when they gazed upon the serpent that Moses lifted up in the wilderness. We sign on as we respond by proclaiming God’s acts and doing good works, so that others may look to us and see the God who is the source and initiator of our actions. 

Ushers: Randy Moyle, Angelina Reesor, Karl Driedger, Song Leader: John Harder, Pianist: Julie Nash, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman, Louise Pogue, Hugh Laurence.
Prelude
Welcome & Ministries of the People
Opening Prayer
Call to Worship (Monitors)
Hymn HWB 102 To God be the glory
Hymn SS 31 Jesus be the centre
Confession
Assurance (Bulletin)
Scripture Reading John 3:14-21 (pg. 864 in Bibles)
Children’s Time
Speaker Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman
Offering Prayer
Offertory Here is love (Monitors)
Prayers of the People HWB 377 Healer of our every ill
Hymn HWB 143 Amazing grace
Benediction

 TODAY - Long Term Visioning meeting after worship in Hospitality Room.


CONGREGATIONAL CALENDAR
This week
Tues., Mar. 20 - Living Room meeting 1:00 to 2:30pm at the church.
    - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.
    - Women’s Bible study 7:00pm at the church.

Wed., Mar. 21– Out of the Cold program 3:00pm to 8:00am Thursday morning. Volunteers are needed and appreciated; see white binder in foyer or speaker to Taucha Inrig.

Sun., Mar. 25 – Sunday school for all ages 10:00am. Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Randy Moyle, Angelina Reesor, Karl Driedger, Song Leader: John Harder, Pianist: Elinor Hansen, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.

Coming up:
Tues., Mar. 27- MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.

Wed., Mar. 28– Women’s Prayer group meets at Evelyn Burkholder’s at 3:00pm.
    - Last evening for the Out of the Cold program 3:00pm to 8:00am Thursday morning. Volunteers are needed and appreciated; see white binder in foyer or speaker to Taucha Inrig.

Sun., Apr. 1 Palm Sunday – Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Randy Moyle, Angelina Reesor, Karl Driedger, Song Leader: Mark Schaub, Pianist: Lisa Schaub, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.

Tues., Apr. 3 – The next Ad Hoc Search Committee meeting for church secretary 7:00pm at Julie Konrad’s.

Community Events:
Sun., Mar. 18– Lenten Sunday Evening service 7:00pm at Unionville Presbyterian Church (600 Village Parkway, Unionville.). The Markham-Unionville Ministerial is organizing Sunday Evening Lenten Services from Feb. 26 to April 1. The topic for these evenings will be “The Unchanging Significance of the Atonement” by Reverend Joe Boot.

Wednesday, March 21, 2012 at 6:30pm 12th annual MCC Toronto supper and story-telling evening at the Toronto Chinese Mennonite Church, 1038 Woodbine Ave., just north of Danforth Ave. RSVP to MCCO Toronto by Mar. 12:  isist@mennonitecc.on.ca or (416)423-9229.


Sat., Mar. 24 - Now you can do both!  Enjoy delicious exotic “Amazonica Chicken” with jazz music AND support our church’s magazine Canadian Mennonite.  The banquet is free, starts at 6:00pm down at Toronto United Mennonite Church.  All you need to do is call TUMC at 416-699-6631 or email secretary@tumc.ca and let them know you’re coming.  You’ll learn about Canadian Mennonite and have opportunity to support it.

Sun., Mar. 25 - Greening Sacred Spaces 4th Annual Forum at Noor Cultural Centre, (123 Wynford Dr., Toronto) 12:00 to 5:30pm. Inspiring workshops and keynote address by Elizabeth May, Member of Parliament and leader of Canada’s Green Party. Learn more and register at http:greenchoicesforum.eventbrite.com

Sat., Mar. 31 – Come celebrate the work of MCC and raise funds for the Black Creek Pioneer Village Relief Sale! You are invited to our annual meeting at 6:30pm at Rouge Valley Mennonite Church. Dessert and homemade ice cream will be served at 6:30pm followed by our annual meeting, music by Rouge River Connection, a live auction to cover the costs of the sale and guest speaker Mike Tennant. This is a wonderful opportunity to hear about the work of
MCC and support the Black Creek Pioneer Village Relief Sale. Hope to see you there!

Out of Town Events
Sat., Apr. 21 - Please join us for MEDA Waterloo Chapter’s Annual Spring Banquet at Crosshill Mennonite Church 6:00pm.  Keynote speaker is Nolan Andres from PeaceWorks.  Tickets are $35/person. Register at www.meda.org/waterloo or call MEDA (519) 725-1633.

Notes
Job Opportunity:  Rouge Valley Mennonite Church (RVMC) is seeking to fill the position of INTERIM CHURCH SECRETARY.  This is a part-time position (20-24 hrs/week) with an hourly salary of ~$14/hr.  Duties include providing administrative support and reception services.  A detailed job description is available at www.rvmc.ca.  Targeted start date is mid-April with the position likely ending in late August.  Application deadline is Monday, April 2.  Please send resume and cover letter to julie@rvmc.ca.

Earth Day E-Waste Drive. From April 10-22, donate your old electronics at participating thrift shops and raise money for sustainability features of the new 50 Kent building project.

Willowgrove and Glenbrook Day Camp are currently hiring 4 Instructors and 2 Supervisors for the GDC Peace Program and Master Peace Theatre Program. They are looking for youth and young adults who are passionate about peace/drama and are excited and comfortable teaching and working with children. Please contact John Wideman at peace@willowgrove.ca or 905-640-2127.

Looking for a summer job with rewards?  Fraser Lake Camp and Glenbrook Day Camp are taking applications for summer staff positions.  Apply today at FraserLakeCamp.com or GlenbrookDayCamp.com or call the office at 905-640-2127 for more details.
MDS Needs a Cook for the MDS Youth Project in Hamilton in July
This year the Mennonite Disaster Service Region V (Canada) Youth Project will be at the Welcome Inn in Hamilton, ON. The project runs for 4 weeks in July, with groups of approx. 15 youth and leaders. If you would be willing to volunteer for 1 to 4 weeks (Sunday PM to Fri PM only), please contact Glenn or Esther Buck at glennmds@wightman.ca or call 519 335 3653. 
This is how your financial support of Mennonite Church Canada is ministering...from across the street to around the world!  Thank you to those who responded to an urgent
appeal for help. The December 17th Typhoon Sendong in the Philippines took over 1,000 lives
and injured more than 1,600 others. With your help, Mennonite Church Canada sent $5000 in aid and partnered with MCC to send even more aid. Our workers Daniel and Joji Pantoja, with Peace Builders Community staff, coordinated volunteers and material aid responses.
Give thanks for churches working for peace and justice in the Eje Cafetero region of Colombia with projects such as nonviolence workshops for youth and children. Pray for their members who applied to join the CPT Holy Week delegation in Barrancabermeja.

    ASSURANCE
    We were dead through the sin in which we once lived, but God has made us
    alive together with Christ Jesus, recreated us for good works,
    which were prepared beforehand to be our way of life.
    We pledge to live so that those who are dying from their sins
    can see the love and grace of Jesus shining in our lives.

    Rouge Valley Mennonite Church
        Building relationships through God to people

     7452 Reesor Rd., Markham, ON L6B 1A8
     Church Office: 905 294-6242  eMail: Admin@rvmc.ca   Web: www.rvmc.ca
__________________________________________

Pastor: Pieter Niemeyer                     eMail: Pieter@rvmc.ca
Associate Pastor: Liz Brasier-Ackerman   eMail: Liz@rvmc.ca
Interim Youth Coordinators: Rachel Burkholder & Simon Martin
                                                       eMail: markhammyf@gmail.com
Church Elders:  Trudy Burkholder, George Reesor, Ann Reesor, Marilyn Hadden,
                                       Lisa Schaub, Laurie Hadden.



________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Welcome to
Rouge Valley         
Mennonite Church
Sunday school for all ages 10:00am
Worship Service 11:00 a.m.

March 11, 2012

Focus statement: In Today’s world, “the law” may seem especially outdated or unattainable; God’s wisdom often appears foolish. Jesus’ cleansing of the temple looks like a foolish act that brings on the wrath of his detractors. Yet when we live in God’s law, we begin to realize the blessing of God’s call to be a holy people. Are we foolish enough to sign on as a covenant people?

Ushers: Randy Moyle, Angelina Reesor, Karl Driedger, Song Leader: John Harder, Pianist: Lisa Schaub, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.
Prelude
Welcome & Ministries of the People
Opening Prayer
Call to Worship (Monitors)
Hymn HWB 16 God is here among us
Hymn HWB 124 O worship the Lord
Confession
Assurance
Scripture Reading 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 (pg. 926 in Bibles)
Children’s Time
Speaker Pastor Pieter Niemeyer
Offering Prayer
Offertory Hymn SJ 44 The love of God
Prayers of the People
Hymn SS 49 I will come to you in the silence
Benediction

TODAY - Durham Prayer/Potluck group will meet for simple finger food lunch at the church.

CONGREGATIONAL CALENDAR
This week
Tues., Mar. 13 - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.

Wed., Mar. 14– Out of the Cold program 3:00pm to 8:00am Thursday morning. Volunteers are needed and appreciated; see white binder in foyer or speaker to Taucha Inrig.
    - Ministry Council meeting 7:30pm in the Cedar Grove Meetinghouse.

Thurs., Mar. 15 – Congregational Care Elders meeting 9:00am at the church.

Sun., Mar. 18 – Sunday school for all ages 10:00am. Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Randy Moyle, Angelina Reesor, Karl Driedger, Song Leader: John Harder, Pianist: Julie Nash, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.
     - Long Term Visioning meeting after worship in Hospitality Room, please bring a bag lunch.

Coming up:
Tues., Mar. 20 - Living Room meeting 1:00 to 2:30pm at the church.
    - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.
    - Women’s Bible study 7:00pm at the church.

Wed., Mar. 21– Out of the Cold program 3:00pm to 8:00am Thursday morning. Volunteers are needed and appreciated; see white binder in foyer or speaker to Taucha Inrig.

Sun., Mar. 25 – Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Randy Moyle, Angelina Reesor, Karl Driedger, Song Leader: John Harder, Pianist: Elinor Hansen, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.

Community Events:
Sun., Mar. 11– Lenten Sunday Evening service 7:00pm at Grace Anglican Church, 19 Parkway Ave., Markham. The Markham-Unionville Ministerial is organizing Sunday Evening Lenten Services from Feb. 26 to April 1. The topic for these evenings will be “The Unchanging Significance of the Atonement” by Reverend Joe Boot.

Mark your calendars!  Wednesday, March 21, 2012 at 6:30 p.m.  We would like to invite you to our 12th annual MCC Toronto supper and story-telling evening at the Toronto Chinese Mennonite Church, 1038 Woodbine Ave., just north of Danforth Ave. RSVP to MCCO Toronto by Mar. 12:  isist@mennonitecc.on.ca or (416)423-9229.

Sat., Mar. 31 – Come celebrate the work of MCC and raise funds for the Black Creek Pioneer Village Relief Sale! You are invited to our annual meeting at 6:30pm at Rouge Valley Mennonite Church. Dessert and homemade ice cream will be served at 6:30pm followed by our annual meeting, music by Rouge River Connection, a live auction to cover the costs of the sale and guest speaker Mike Tennant. This is a wonderful opportunity to hear about the work of MCC and support the Black Creek Pioneer Village Relief Sale. Hope to see you there!

Notes
We are excited to welcome Elden James Musselman.  He was born on the morning of March 7th.  Baby and mother are tired but doing well. Thanks for your prayers and best wishes. The Musselman's.

MDS Responds to USA tornados
Large groups of local MDS volunteers were on the ground helping with clean up immediately following the series of tornados that swept the mid-west of the USA last week. Local MDS leaders need prayers for wisdom as they work with communities in discerning the most appropriate areas for MDS long-term response.  The damage to families and communities is incalculable.  Canadians are asked to respond in prayer, through financial donations, and openness to serve in volunteer capacity once long-term response is determined.  Thank you for working together to not only repair and rebuild homes, but to touch lives, nurture hope, faith and wholeness.   For current updates, check the MDS website www.mds.mennonite.net or our Facebook page. Thanks, Janet Plenert  Region V (Canada) Manager See MDS Update for March 8, 2012 on shelf in foyer.

Willowgrove and Glenbrook Day Camp are currently hiring 4 Instructors and 2 Supervisors for the GDC Peace Program and Master Peace Theatre Program. They are looking for youth and young adults who are passionate about peace/drama and are excited and comfortable teaching and working with children. Please contact John Wideman at peace@willowgrove.ca or 905-640-2127.
Looking for a summer job with rewards?  Fraser Lake Camp and Glenbrook Day Camp are taking applications for summer staff positions.  Apply today at FraserLakeCamp.com or GlenbrookDayCamp.com or call the office at 905-640-2127 for more details.
Participation in Summer Camp programs continues proving to be an extremely positive life experience for both campers and staff. For details on the 2012 camp season see brochures including Ontario Mennonite Music Camp (Aug. 12-24) in brochure rack in foyer.

Pray with CPT for journalists and others beaten and detained by security forces in Suleimaniya, Iraq. Give thanks that security forces released them without charging them and remember the young men killed during demonstrations in the Kurdish spring last year.

    CONFESSION
    Jesus, we confess that our pride and greed have led us to break God’s laws
    and disrespect God’s house. We wear crosses of gold and silver,
worship in beautiful buildings. Yet you do not live in houses made by human hands, but in the people who have signed their lives over to you.
    Makes us foolish enough to follow in your footsteps,
    weak enough to draw all our strength from you. Amen.




________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Rouge Valley
Mennonite Church   
Announcement Sheet

March 11, to April 1, 2012

Community Events
Community Euchre held the first Monday of the month at 7:30pm at Heritage United Church. Bring a friend, Have some fun! Cost one loonie. Refreshments served.

CGCC (Cedar Grove Community Club) monthly meeting held the third Monday of the month at 8:00pm January to May. Sept., Oct., and Nov. at the Community Centre.

Mon., Mar. 19 – The CGCC welcomes you to their Annual “Spring Fling” Potluck Supper 6:30pm at the Cedar Grove Community Centre. For details see posting in foyer.

Sat., Mar. 31 – “Let’s Talk About It: Truth, Reconciliation & Equity” 9:00am to 1:00pm at the Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre (439 Dundas St. East) with Aboriginal leadership we will learn a little about the history of racism and colonialism, as well as current living conditions from many Aboriginal peoples in Canada. Suggested donation $15.00 per person, light lunch provided. Pre pre-registration, email revalurbanministry@hotmail.com or call 416-504-9416.
           - Conscience Canada invites you to hear Jonathan Seiling, academic historian, who is researching and writing a book for the Bi-Centennial Peace Committee on conscience objectors during the War of 18-12-14.  At Friends’ House, 60 Lowther Ave., Toronto (near St. George subway station, Bedford Rd. exit). Jonathan will be speaking  at 3:30pm following their annual AGM at 2:00pm to which interested persons are also welcome.

Gib Whittamore’s 90th Birthday Celebration, Sat., Apr. 1, from 2:00-5:00pm, at Heritage United Church. Please spread the word. Best wishes only, please.

Sat., Apr. 21 – CGCC 2012 Annual Spring Garbage Pick up at 8:00am followed by BBQ lunch at the Community Centre.

The Kingdom ~ Edward Elgar. Koerner Hall, Toronto ~ Sunday, May 6, 2012 at 3:00 p.m.; Pre-concert chat at 2:00 pm. Pax Christi Chorale - Toronto’s Mennonite Choir, under the direction of Artistic Director Stephanie Martin performs Elgar’s rarely heard masterpiece The Kingdom with full orchestra. The performance features British baritone sensation Roderick Williams and outstanding Canadian soloists Shannon Mercer, Krisztina Szabo,
and Keith Klassen. For tickets, please visit www.paxchristichorale.org/tickets or Hugh Laurence is also willing to pick up your tickets.

Sat., May 12 – Walk Against Poverty, registration 7:30am walk at 9:00am, Richmond Green Sports Centre & Park (1300 Elgin Mills Rd. East, Richmond Hill). The Society of St. Vincent de Paul York South Particular Council together with Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold are organizing this event. Register online visit www.miotc.ca or call 416-948-6682 or 905-717-9827. If you would like to pledge sponsors for this event please see Pat in the church office to sign out a pledge form envelope. See posting in foyer for walk details.

June 2 - This Treasure in Clay Jars, Sexuality, Marriage, and the Body – One-Day Symposium hosted by the Toronto Mennonite Theological Centre, at the Toronto School of Theology, Toronto Mennonite Theological Centre 47 Queen’s Park Cres., East Toronto, visit grebel.ca/tmtc/events.shtml or contact Sarah Freeman at mennonite.centre@utoronto.ca (416) 978-6078 for  details.

Mark your Calendars for the following Community Events:
* Canada Day Picnic & BBQ, Baseball & Fireworks Fri. June 29, 6:30pm at the Corner Lot, (corner of Reesor Rd. and Steeles Ave.).
* Friday night community baseball throughout the summer at the Corner Lot. .). For details contact the CGCC President Dale Reesor at 416-286-9561.

Out of Town Events
University of Waterloo, Grebel March Break Open House, Mar. 13 & Mar. 14, Arts, Science, Applied Health Sciences for details, see posting on bulletin board above drinking fountain in foyer.
The Bechtel Lectures in Anabaptist-Mennonite Studies, at Conrad Grebel University College “Blest Be the Ties That Bind”: In Search of the Global Anabaptist Church, John D. Roth, Thurs., Mar. 15 7:30pm “The Challenge of Church Unity in the Anabaptist Tradition”, Fri., Mar. 16, 7:30pm “What Hath Zurich to do with Addis Ababa? Ecclesial Identity in the Global Anabaptist Church. See posting in foyer for details.
Mennonite Central Committee Ontario Updates:
“Pledge a Pig” and help support the 2012 Canning Season! (See bulletin board in foyer for details.)
MCC Elmira Meat Canning Fundraiser Breakfast, Sat, Mar. 24, see posting for details.
Apr. 16 Kitchener   New Hamburg Relief Sale Fundraising Dinner.
April 23-26 Elmira Meat Canning, see volunteer sign up sheet posted in foyer.
April 30 - May 3 Leamington Meat Canning
* MCC Ontario Responds to new Refugee Sponsorship Rules - Please visit our website at mcco.ca/refugee to see how MCC Ontario is adapting to the new rules for the private refugee sponsorship program or contact the MCC Ontario Refugee Program office at 905-646-3161 for more information.
* Housing Partnership in Attawapiskat
(Please note changes...)
MCC Ontario is sending a team of skilled tradespeople for a 2 week period March 19.  Teams will work under local leadership to restore 5 homes back to a more livable state. For more info, please visit  mcco.ca/aboriginal.
* TOOLS
Interested in learning more about what leads to poverty and homelessness? Wondering how you, as a follower of Christ, can help? Then sign up for TOOLS.  For more info visit mcco.ca/tools
Out of Town Events Cont’d…
* Capital Fundraising Dessert Events: As part of our efforts to stay well connected to pastors, reps and congregations we will be discussing our capital campaign and potential supportive roles. Please join us on April 4 in the Stouffville/Markham area location TBA.

March 30 – April 1 – Give a Gift to Your Marriage with a Marriage Encounter weekend, at Jericho House in Wainfleet, Ontario. It’s a gift that keeps on giving! See posting in foyer for details or visit www.marriageenounterec.com.

MCEC Highlighted Events
* Youth Bible Quizzing
April 14, 2012
East Zorra Mennonite Church
* MCEC Annual Church Gathering
April 27 - 28, 2012
UMEI, Leamington, ON

Fri., Apr. 20, 8:00pm & Sat., Apr. 21, 2:00 and 8:00pm, at the Conrad Centre for Performing Arts, (36 King St. W. Kitchener) “Gadfly: Sam Steiner dodges the draft”, an original play written and directed by University of Waterloo drama student Rebecca Steiner, starring John Wideman, Rebecca Steiner, Kim Walker and Ben Wert. Presented by Mennonite Historical Society of Ontario Theater of the Beat. Tickets $25, students $15, visit kwsymphony.ca/conradcentre for call 519-745-4711. See posting in foyer for details.

Canadian Mennonite University Updates:
* CMU announces an essay contest for Manitoba High School Students interested in the Humanities. The contest invites students to engage with important questions about art, ethics, and theology.  Prize money will be awarded. Essays are due March 31. View contest details at http://media.cmu.ca/index.php/2012/cmu-humanities-faculty-announces-essay-contest/ or contact Andre Forget, aforget@cmu.ca
* Need book club ideas? Save 20% when you order 6 or more copies of any CMU Press title! Suggested titles include: This Hidden Thing by Dora Dueck, Favoured among Women by Hendy Leonora Martens, Desert Spirituality and Cultural Resistance by Belden C. Lane. Visit www.cmu.ca/cmupress for book club questions.
* March 2013 – where will you be? You could be swimming with sharks in South Africa or hiking a volcano in Guatemala, or improving your camel riding skills in French Africa, all while learning about different cultures and deepening your relationship with God.  Apply for CMU’s Outtatown program before these sites are completely full!  www.outtatown.com
* “Youth Ministry as School of Love” is a youth ministry conference planned for June 1 - 2 at CMU.  Associated with the conference is an intensive week long course that can be taken for graduate or undergraduate credit.  The conference and course will feature Mark Yaconelli and Michael Hryniuk.  Participants can register for this conference separately or participate as part of the week long course.  Details and registration information can be found at www.cmu.ca

Mennonite Coalition for Refugee Support Celebrates 25 Years
Join us at our 25th Anniversary Fundraising Banquet happening at Knox Presbyterian Church in Waterloo on Saturday April 21, 6:00 pm.  Tickets are $35.00 and are available at www.mcrs.ca/25years or call (519) 571-1912. Keynote speaker Dr. Ginette Lafrenière: "What we claim to be true: reflections on vulnerability and resiliency."

Praise God! Thank God for the response to an urgent appeal for help following a December 2011 typhoon in the Philippines. Your compassion enabled Mennonite Church Canada to send $5000 in aid, and to partner with MCC for additional assistance. Typhoon Sendong took over 1,000 lives and injured more than 1,600 others. Our workers Daniel and Joji Pantoja, together with PeaceBuilders Community staff, coordinated volunteers and material aid responses. (Witness Worker Update, pg. 9.)

Notes
This is how your financial support of Mennonite Church Canada is ministering...from across the street to around the world!  Mennonite Church Canada partners with the Mennonite Church of Colombia (IMCOL) for leadership training, pastoral accompaniment, new church initiatives, evangelism and peacemaking in Colombia. IMCOL has invited Hippolyto Tshimanga, Director of Latin America Ministry for Mennonite Church Canada, to speak on the theme of Disciples of Jesus in the World Today at its annual assembly, March 16 to 18. Thank you for your encouragement and support of this kingdom building relationship! On March 11, 2012, Yamanota Fukuin Church, a Brethren in Christ congregation in Japan that is part of Mennonite World Conference, invites churches around the world to create a ring of prayer around the earth for those who survived the Tohoku earthquake of March 11, 2011. If congregations pray for five minutes at 11:45 a.m. (local time), time differences around the globe
will unfold a progression of prayer, connecting like a huge ring on the earth.

MDS Responds to USA tornados
Large groups of local MDS volunteers were on the ground helping with clean up immediately following the series of tornados that swept the mid-west of the USA last week. Local MDS leaders need prayers for wisdom as they work with communities in discerning the most appropriate areas for MDS long-term response.  The damage to families and communities is incalculable.  Canadians are asked to respond in prayer, through financial donations, and openness to serve in volunteer capacity once long-term response is determined.  Thank you for working together to not only repair and rebuild homes, but to touch lives, nurture hope, faith and wholeness.   For current updates, check the MDS website  www.mds.mennonite.net  or our Facebook page. Thanks,  Janet Plenert   Region V (Canada) Manager






__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Welcome to
Rouge Valley         
Mennonite Church
Sunday school for all ages 10:00am
Worship Service 11:00 a.m.

March 04, 2012

Ushers: Randy Moyle, Angelina Reesor, Karl Driedger, Song Leader: Mark Schaub, Pianist: Lisa Schaub, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman, Taucha Inrig, Richard Ackerman.
Prelude
Welcome & Ministries of the People
Opening Prayer
Call to Worship Hymn SS 39 Will you come and follow me
Hymn HWB 536 Take up your cross
Hymn Meekness and Majesty (Monitors)
Confession
Assurance
Scripture Reading Mark 8:27-38 (pg. #820 in Bibles)
Children’s Time
Sermon Following Jesus on the way of the cross
Offering Prayer
Offertory
Prayers of the People
Hymn SJ 95 I want to walk as a child of the light
Benediction

        ASSURANCE
        Almighty God, like Abraham of old,
         we trust you to make us strong in faith as we give your glory.
        You are able to do what you have promised:
        You alone give life to the dead
        and call into existence that which does not exist.


TODAY - Stouffville West Prayer/Potluck group to meet for lunch at George & Anna Reesor’s.

CONGREGATIONAL CALENDAR
This week
Tues., Mar. 6 - Living Room meeting 1:00 to 2:30pm at the church.
    - Women’s Bible study group meets 7:00pm at the church.
- MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.
- Ad Hoc Search Committee meeting for administrative position 7:00pm at Paul W. Reesor’s.

Wed., Mar. 7 – Out of the Cold program 3:00pm to 8:00am Thursday morning. Volunteers are needed and appreciated; see white binder in foyer or speaker to Taucha Inrig.

Sun., Mar. 11 – Ushers: Randy Moyle, Angelina Reesor, Karl Driedger, Song Leader: John Harder, Pianist: Nancy Burkholder, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.
    - Durham Prayer/Potluck group will meet for simple finger food lunch at the church.
    - Stouffville East Prayer/Potluck group will meet for lunch, location to be determined. If you plan
       on attending please contact Louise Pogue.
    - Long Term Visioning meeting after worship in Hospitality Room, please bring a bag lunch.

Coming up:
Tues., Mar. 13 – Congregational Care Elders meeting 9:15am at Trudy Burkholder’s.
    - MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.

Wed., Mar. 14– Out of the Cold program 3:00pm to 8:00am Thursday morning. Volunteers are needed and appreciated; see white binder in foyer or speaker to Taucha Inrig.
    - Ministry Council meeting 7:30pm in the Cedar Grove Meetinghouse.

Sun., Mar. 18 – Ushers: Randy Moyle, Angelina Reesor, Karl Driedger, Song Leader: John Harder, Pianist: Julie Nash, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.

Community Events:
Sun., Mar. 4 – Lenten Sunday Evening service 7:00pm at Bethesda Lutheran Church, 20 Union St., Unionville. The Markham-Unionville Ministerial is organizing Sunday Evening Lenten Services from Feb. 26 to April 1. The topic for these evenings will be “The Unchanging Significance of the Atonement” by Reverend Joe Boot.

Fri., Mar. 9 - Christian Peacemaker Teams Benefit concert featuring The Four Men '7.30pm Trinity St Paul's Centre 427 Bloor St. West, tickets $15 in advance / $20 at the door - to book email canada@cpt.org or call 416-423-5525. See posting in foyer for details.

Sat., Mar. 10 – Sound of Scripture workshop follow up meeting 10:00am to 12 noon at Rouge Valley.

Mark your calendars!  Wednesday, March 21, 2012, 6:30 p.m.  We would like to invite you to our 12th annual MCC Toronto supper and story-telling evening at the Toronto Chinese Mennonite Church, 1038 Woodbine Ave., just north of Danforth Ave.  RSVP to MCCO Toronto:  isist@mennonitecc.on.caor (416)423-9229.  Sure hope to see you all!

Mennonite Central Committee Ontario Updates:
Alarmed by the continuing violence in Syria MCC has launched a $500,000 Middle East Pre-Crisis appeal to assist partner organizations as they provide emergency food aid, medicine, relief kits and empower grassroots, community efforts that encourage violent conflict prevention. Monetary donations and relief kits can be donated at your local MCC office or thrift shop and should be marked Middle East Crisis. More information at canada.mcc.org/middleastcrisis.     
 “Pledge a Pig” and help support the 2012 Canning Season! (See bulletin board in foyer for details.)
MCC Elmira Meat Canning Fundraiser Breakfast, Sat, Mar. 24, see posting for details.
Apr. 16 | Kitchener   New Hamburg Relief Sale Fundraising Dinner
April 23-26 | Elmira Meat Canning, see volunteer sign up sheet posted in foyer.
April 30 - May 3 | Leamington Meat Canning
* MCC Ontario Responds to new Refugee Sponsorship Rules - Please visit our website at mcco.ca/refugee to see how MCC Ontario is adapting to the new rules for the private refugee sponsorship program or contact the MCC Ontario Refugee Program office at 905-646-3161 for more information.
* Housing Partnership in Attawapiskat
(Please note changes...)
MCC Ontario is sending a team of skilled tradespeople for a 2 week period March 19.  Teams will work under local leadership to restore 5 homes back to a more livable state. For more info, please visit  mcco.ca/aboriginal.
* TOOLS
Interested in learning more about what leads to poverty and homelessness? Wondering how you, as a follower of Christ, can help? Then sign up for TOOLS.  For more info visit mcco.ca/tools

Sat., Mar. 31 - Come celebrate the work of MCC and raise funds for the Black Creek Pioneer Village Relief Sale! You are invited to our annual meeting at 6:30pm at Rouge Valley Mennonite Church. Dessert and homemade ice cream will be served at 6:30pm followed by our annual meeting, music by Rouge River Connection, a live auction to cover the costs of the sale and guest speaker Mike Tennant. This is a wonderful opportunity to hear about the work of MCC and support the Black Creek Pioneer Village Relief Sale. Hope to see you there!

Canadian Mennonite University Updates: March 2013 – where will you be? You could be swimming with sharks in South Africa or hiking a volcano in Guatemala, or improving your camel riding skills in French Africa, all while learning about different cultures and deepening your relationship with God.  Apply for CMU’s Outtatown program before these sites are completely full!  www.outtatown.com
 
 Notes
On behalf of MCEC Mission Minister Brian Bauman, see copy of Sprout Winter 2012 in your church mailboxes. This pamphlet lists inspiring stories from new and emerging ministries in MCEC.

Pray with CPT for healing and reconciliation between indigenous and settler communities in and near Caledonia, Ontario, on Six Nations Territory. Last week a settler youth drove his car into Kanohstaton, a house symbolizing reclamation of lands by the Six Nations.

 Looking for a summer job with rewards?  Fraser Lake Camp and Glenbrook Day Camp are taking applications for summer staff positions.  Apply today at FraserLakeCamp.com or GlenbrookDayCamp.com or call the office at 905-640-2127 for more details.

Participation in Summer Camp programs continues proving to be an extremely positive life experience for both campers and staff. For details on the 2012 camp season see brochures including Ontario Mennonite Music Camp (Aug. 12-24) in brochure rack in foyer.

This is how your financial support of Mennonite Church Canada is ministering...from across the street to around the world!  Thanks to all of you – the Area Churches, congregations and individuals of Mennonite Church Canada – for continuing to invite national church staff into your congregations and
homes. Because of your warm hospitality and overwhelming generosity, staff and volunteer leadership can work together in the ministries of Mennonite Canada.


______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Welcome to
Rouge Valley         
Mennonite Church
Sunday school for all ages 10:00am
Worship Service 11:00 a.m.

February 26, 2012
God’s Story Our Story

Ushers: Trisha Ashworth, Brian Drudge, Valerie Wong, Song Leader: Ann Reesor, Pianists: Nancy Burkholder, Trevor Pogue. Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman, John David & Trisha Ashworth, Louise Pogue, George & Anna Reesor, Lisa Schaub.
Prelude
Welcome & Ministries of the People
Call to Worship Hymn SJ 9 Come, now is the time to worship
Opening Prayer
Hymn SJ 1 We sing to you, O God
Hymn SJ 27 God of the Bible
Story: Issac Meets his Bride Rebekah
Story: David & Jonathan
Story: Jonah
Hymn SJ 44 The love of God
Story: Mary & Martha
Offering Prayer
Offertory
Story: Loaves & Fishes
Communion Celebrated
Scripture Readings:  Luke 14:28-34 (pg. 850 in Bibles) Proverbs 22:1-7 (pg. 527 in Bibles)
Story: Saul on the Road to Damascus
Hymn HWB 327 Great is thy faithfulness
Benediction


CONGREGATIONAL CALENDAR
This week
Tues., Feb. 28 – Beavers meet 6:45 to 8:30pm at the church.
- MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.

Wed., Feb. 29 – Women’s Prayer group 2:00pm at Evelyn Burkholder’s.
    - Out of the Cold program 3:00pm to 8:00am Thursday morning. Volunteers are needed, see white binder in foyer or speak to Taucha Inrig.

Thurs., Mar. 1 – Leadership Elders meeting 9:15am at the church.
        - Sewing Circle meets in the Cedar Grove Meetinghouse 9:30am to 3:30pm. Please bring a bag lunch if you will be staying over the lunch hour, coffee will be provided. All are welcome.
        - Worship/Staff meeting noon at the church.
- Liaison Ministry meeting between Rouge Valley and Church on the Rock, 7:00pm at the church.

Sun., Mar. 4 – Sunday school for all ages 10:00am as follows:
* Ladies group, leader Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman meets upstairs in the Cedar Grove Meetinghouse. Topic: The Jesus Way Eugene Peterson. (For details see bulletin.)
* Men’s group, leader John David Ashworth meets in the Sanctuary. Topic to be decided.
* Bible Study group, leader Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, theme Atonement, meets in the Hospitality Room. 
Worship 11:00am. Ushers: Randy Moyle, Angelina Reesor, Karl Driedger, Song Leader: Mark Schaub,  Pianist: Lisa Schaub, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.
– Stouffville West Prayer/Potluck group to meet for lunch at George & Anna Reesor’s.
– Stouffville East Prayer/Potluck group to be determined.

Coming up:
Tues., Mar. 6 - Living Room meeting 1:00 to 2:30pm at the church.
    - Women’s Bible study group meets 7:00pm at the church.
- MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.

Wed., Mar. 7 – Ministry Council meeting 7:30pm in the Cedar Grove Meetinghouse.

Sun., Mar. 11 – Durham Prayer/Potluck group will meet for simple finger food lunch at the church.
- Long Term Visioning meeting after worship in Hospitality Room, please bring a bag lunch.

Community Events:
Tonight – The Markham-Unionville Ministerial are organizing Sunday Evening Lenten Services from Feb. 26 to April 1. The topic for these evenings will be “The Unchanging Significance of the Atonement” by Reverend Joe Boot. The first evening will be at Rouge Valley Mennonite church, at 7:00pm. Please bring cookies/squares for fellowship afterwards. Lent 2 service Sun., Mar. 4 hosted by Bethesda Lutheran Church, 20 Union St., Unionville.
Community Events Cont’d…
Thurs., Mar. 1, Food for Change – Action Day Cultivating a Healthier Food System in York Region. Location: Angus Glen Community Centre, 3990 Major Mackenzie Dr. E., in Markham, Activity Room 1, 9:30am to 4:00pm. Limited seating, to pre-register email: foodcharter@yrfn.ca
Friday, March 2, 10:00am - Commemorate 40 years!  On March 2, it will be 40 years since 18,000 acres were expropriated for an airport. Within hours, "People or Planes" rose up to fight it. On March 2, come to Brougham to celebrate grassroots success: presentations, photos, former members of POP, Q & A, etc. (A new organization, "Land over Landings" has developed, trying to save farmland from development.) More info from Lys Laurence.

Quilt Knotting Blitz - Sat., Mar. 3 - 9:30am to 3:30pm at the church, all ages and genders are welcome! Quilt tops are needed; dimensions are 60” by 80” (single) or 72” by 90” (double). For details contact Bev Moyle 905-839-3692, Dorothy Reesor 905-294-3427, or Ellie Nash 905-294-0820.Quilts to be donated to Mennonite Central Committee. Purchase a soup lunch and help support MCC.

Fri., Mar. 9 - Christian Peacemaker Teams Benefit concert featuring The Four Men'7.30pm Trinity St Paul's Centre 427 Bloor St. West, tickets $15 in advance / $20 at the door - to book email canada@cpt.org or call 416-423-5525. See posting in foyer for details.
Sat., Mar. 10 – Sound of Scripture workshop follow up meeting 10:00am to 12 noon at Rouge Valley.
Mark your calendars!  Wednesday, March 21, 2012, 6:30 p.m.  We would like to invite you to our 12th annual MCC Toronto supper and story-telling evening at the Toronto Chinese Mennonite Church, 1038 Woodbine Ave., just north of Danforth Ave.  RSVP to MCCO Toronto:  isist@mennonitecc.on.caor (416)423-9229.  Sure hope to see you all!
Mennonite Central Committee Ontario Updates:
“Pledge a Pig” and help support the 2012 Canning Season! (See bulletin board in foyer for details.)
MCC Elmira Meat Canning Fundraiser Breakfast, Sat, Mar. 24, see posting for details.
Apr. 16 | Kitchener   New Hamburg Relief Sale Fundraising Dinner
April 23-26 | Elmira Meat Canning, see volunteer sign up sheet posted in foyer.
April 30 - May 3 | Leamington Meat Canning
* MCC Ontario Responds to new Refugee Sponsorship Rules - Please visit our website at mcco.ca/refugee to see how MCC Ontario is adapting to the new rules for the private refugee sponsorship program or contact the MCC Ontario Refugee Program office at 905-646-3161 for more information.
* Housing Partnership in Attawapiskat
(Please note changes...)
MCC Ontario is sending a team of skilled tradespeople for a 2 week period March 19.  Teams will work under local leadership to restore 5 homes back to a more livable state. For more info, please visit  mcco.ca/aboriginal.
* TOOLS
Interested in learning more about what leads to poverty and homelessness? Wondering how you, as a follower of Christ, can help? Then sign up for TOOLS.  For more info visit mcco.ca/tools

Notes
The church is looking for a used fridge for the basement of the Cedar Grove Meetinghouse. If you or someone you know has a fridge please get in touch with either Tom Farrar 905-202-5452 or Pat Binks at the church office.

Ladies group Sunday school topic: “The Jesus Way. A conversation on the ways that Jesus is the way” by Eugene H. Peterson A way of sacrifice. A way of failure. A way on the margins. A way of holiness. All of these ways prepared the “way of the Lord” that became incarnate and complete in Jesus. But somewhere along the line, have we lost the way? In The Jesus Way Eugene Peterson continues his stimulating conversation in spiritual theology, considering all the ways that Jesus is the Way
compared to the distorted ways the church today has chosen to follow.”

For other events happening within our community and out of town, see Announcement Sheet for Feb. 19 to Mar. 11.
Willowgrove and Glenbrook Day Camp are currently hiring 4 Instructors and 2 Supervisors for the GDC Peace Program and Master Peace Theatre Program. They are looking for youth and young adults who are passionate about peace/drama and are excited and comfortable teaching and working with children. Please contact John Wideman at peace@willowgrove.ca or 905-640-2127.
 Looking for a summer job with rewards?  Fraser Lake Camp and Glenbrook Day Camp are taking applications for summer staff positions.  Apply today at FraserLakeCamp.com or GlenbrookDayCamp.com or call the office at 905-640-2127 for more details.
Participation in Summer Camp programs continues proving to be an extremely positive life experience for both campers and staff. For details on the 2012 camp season see brochures including Ontario Mennonite Music Camp (Aug. 12-24) in brochure rack in foyer.
Please see MDS (Mennonite Disaster Service) update for Feb. 23/12 on shelf in foyer.
Give thanks that CPT Palestine was accepted to a humanitarian appeals process operating under the auspices of the United Nations. This process allows organizations supporting Palestinians’ rights to better coordinate advocacy strategies and expand communication to a wider international audience.

This is how your financial support of Mennonite Church Canada is ministering...from across the street to around the world!  Thanks to your generosity, Mennonite Church Canada’s Native Ministry is developing a new curriculum; Creation’s Harmony Way. In this study guide, twelve leading thinkers and activists explore what it means to live well with creation, and what that means practically for native and nonnative relationships here in Turtle Island – North America. Please pray for the authors as they craft
their pieces, and pray for the editors too; that they might communicate this material in a way that
shares the “good news” and its urgent call to action.



__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Welcome to
Rouge Valley         
Mennonite Church
Worship Service 10:00 a.m.

February 19, 2012
Cash versus Plastic versus Cell

Ushers: Trisha Ashworth, Brian Drudge, Valerie Wong, Song Leader: Ann Reesor, Pianist: Freda Burkholder, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman, Simon Martin, Richard Ackerman, Laurie Hadden, Letitia Wise.
Prelude
Welcome & Ministries of the People
Call to Worship
Opening Prayer
Hymn
Hymn
Prayers of the People
Offering Prayer
Offertory
Children’s time
Child care
Scripture Readings:  Luke 14:28-34 (pg. 850 in Bibles) Proverbs 22:1-7 (pg. 527 in Bibles)
Speaker Simon Martin
DVD Presentation (Monitors)
Hymn
Benediction
Coffee Time
Discussion Groups

TODAY – Sound of Scripture Story Telling meeting after worship in the Hospitality Room.


CONGREGATIONAL CALENDAR
This week
Tues., Feb. 21 – Congregational Care Elders meeting 9:15am at Trudy Burkholder’s.
    - Living Room meeting 1:00 to 2:30pm at the church.
    - Women’s Bible study group meets 7:00pm at the church.
- MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.

Wed., Feb. 22 - Out of the Cold program 3:00pm to 8:00am Thursday morning. Volunteers are needed, see white binder in foyer or speak to Taucha Inrig.

Sun., Feb. 26 – Sunday school for all ages 10:00am as follows:
* Ladies group, leader Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman meets upstairs in the Cedar Grove Meetinghouse. Topic: The Jesus Way Eugene Peterson. (For details see back of bulletin.)
* Men’s group, leader John David Ashworth meets in the Sanctuary. Topic to be decided.
* Bible Study group, leader Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, theme Atonement, meets in the Hospitality Room. 
Worship 11:00am. God’s Story Our Story. Communion will be celebrated.
Ushers: Trisha Ashworth, Brian Drudge, Valerie Wong, Song Leader: Ann Reesor, Pianist: Nancy Burkholder, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.

Coming up:
Wed., Feb. 29 – Women’s Prayer group to meet 2:00pm at Evelyn Burkholder’s.

Thurs., Mar. 1 – Leadership Elders meeting 9:15am at the church.
- Liaison Ministry meeting between Rouge Valley and Church on the Rock, 7:00pm at the church.

Sun., Mar. 4 – Stouffville West Prayer/Potluck group to meet for lunch at George & Anna Reesor’s.

Sat., Mar. 10 – Sound of Scripture Workshop follow up with John Epp 10:00am to 12 noon at the church

Sun., Mar. 11 – Durham Prayer/Potluck group will meet for simple finger food lunch at the church.

Community Events:
Waging Peace Tour - A documentary about overcoming interfaith mistrust, featuring Ontario Christians and Muslims. A screening and panel discussion with Executive Producer Sheri Hartzler. Visit ontario.mcc.org/waging-peace-tour.
* February 19, 2 pm Toronto United Mennonite Church 1774 Queen Street East, Toronto

Family Day open House at Willowgrove, Mon., Feb. 20, 10:00am to 3:00pm. Free day of fun on the farm! See posting in foyer for details.

Feb. 24-26 – Revenge and the Gift, presented by Mississauga Mennonite Fellowship. Why do we love movies about revenge? Why do we have trouble giving gifts? For further details on this presentation through movies and television see handout in your church mailboxes.

Sat., Feb. 25 - The Pregnancy Centre's breakfast and annual meeting will be held at 9:00am at The Bridge, 5440 Sixteenth Ave. in Markham. Everyone is welcome!

Sun., Feb. 26 – The Markham-Unionville Ministerial are organizing Sunday Evening Lenten Services from Feb. 26 to April 1. The topic for these evenings will be “The Unchanging Significance of the Atonement” by Reverend Joe Boot. The first evening will be at Rouge Valley Mennonite church, at 7:00pm. Please bring cookies/squares for fellowship afterwards. For further details see bulletin insert.

Mark your Calendars for our annual Quilt Knotting Blitz - Sat., Mar. 3 - 9:30am to 3:30pm at the church, all ages and genders are welcome! Quilt tops are needed; dimensions are 60” by 80” (single) or 72” by 90” (double). For details contact Bev Moyle 905-839-3692, Dorothy Reesor 905-294-3427, or Ellie Nash 905-294-0820.Quilts to be donated to Mennonite Central Committee. Purchase a soup lunch and help support MCC.

Save the date, Thurs., Mar. 1, Food for Change – Action Day Cultivating a Healthier Food System in York Region. Location: Angus Glen Community Centre, 3990 Major Mackenzie Dr. E., in Markham, Activity Room 1, 9:30am to 4:00pm. Limited seating, to pre-register email: foodcharter@yrfn.ca

Friday, March 2, 10:00am - Commemorate 40 years!  On March 2, it will be 40 years since 18,000 acres were expropriated for an airport. Within hours, "People or Planes" rose up to fight it. On March 2, come to Brougham to celebrate grassroots success: presentations, photos, former members of POP, Q & A, etc. (A new organization, "Land over Landings" has developed, trying to save farmland from development.) More info from Lys Laurence.

Sat., Mar. 10 – Sound of Scripture workshop follow up meeting with John Epp, 10:00am to 12 noon at Rouge Valley.

Notes
Please keep Sue & John Philips and family in your prayers as they grieve the loss of Sue’s mother who passed away on Wed., Feb. 15.

Looking for a summer job with rewards?  Fraser Lake Camp and Glenbrook Day Camp are taking applications for summer staff positions.  Apply today at FraserLakeCamp.com or GlenbrookDayCamp.com or call the office at 905-640-2127 for more details.
Ladies group Sunday school topic: “The Jesus Way. A conversation on the ways that Jesus is the way” by Eugene H. Peterson A way of sacrifice. A way of failure. A way on the margins. A way of holiness. All of these ways prepared the “way of the Lord” that became incarnate and complete in Jesus. But somewhere along the line, have we lost the way? In The Jesus Way Eugene Peterson continues his stimulating conversation in spiritual theology, considering all the ways that Jesus is the Way
compared to the distorted ways the church today has chosen to follow.”
After prayerful consideration our Administrative Assistant Pat Binks, has decided to retire from her position beginning April 1st. An Ad Hoc Search Committee is being assembled. If you have any questions speak to Paul W. Reesor, Ministry Council chair.
Pat will not be in the office next Fri., Feb. 24 but will instead work on Mon., Feb. 20th Family Day. Please have your bulletin announcements into the church office by 10:00am on Thurs., Feb. 23.

For other events happening within our community and out of town, see Announcement Sheet in your church mailboxes for Feb. 19 to Mar. 11.

Markham/Stouffville area churches continue to search for a half time youth ministry pastor. Please consider prayerfully possible candidates. Applications can be made through MCEC, attention Muriel Bechtel. Or for more information contact Lois Bukar at Wideman Mennonite Church, 905-640-6219.
Pray with CPT for justice for the victims of paramilitary and military crimes in Colombia. Remember especially the Las Pavas community, who are under investigation for allegedly fabricating the story of their displacement and occupying land that is not theirs.


________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________



Rouge Valley
Mennonite Church   
Announcement Sheet

February 19, to March 11, 2012

Community Events
Waging Peace Tour - A documentary about overcoming interfaith mistrust, featuring Ontario Christians and Muslims. A screening and panel discussion with Executive Producer Sheri Hartzler. Visit ontario.mcc.org/waging-peace-tour.
* TODAY, 2 pm at Toronto United Mennonite Church 1774 Queen Street East, Toronto

Mon., Feb. 20 - Whitchurch-Stouffville Community Power Association (WSCPA) invites you to an evening to hear about our community cooperative to generate solar power, at 19 on the Park, 19 Civic Ave. Stouffville from 7-9pm.  This FREE workshop is supported by Greening Sacred Spaces and Green Awakening Network as it has lots of relevance to faith communities, other community organizations, and interested individuals. Many congregations have created what are effectively community power programs – at least to the extent that a significant proportion of the capital for the solar array has been created through debentures purchased by people beyond the congregation.  Get in on the ground floor of this type of exciting initiative.

Sat., Feb. 25 - The Pregnancy Centre's breakfast and annual meeting will be held at 9:00am at The Bridge, 5440 Sixteenth Ave. in Markham. Everyone is welcome!

Save the date, Thurs., Mar. 1, Food for Change – Action Day Cultivating a Healthier Food System in York Region. Location: Angus Glen Community Centre, 3990 Major Mackenzie Dr. E., in Markham, Activity Room 1, 9:30am to 4:00pm. Limited seating, to pre-register email: foodcharter@yrfn.ca
Come celebrate the work of MCC and raise funds for the Black Creek Pioneer Village Relief Sale! You are invited to our annual meeting on Saturday March 31, 2012 at 6:30pm at Rouge Valley Mennonite Church. Dessert and homemade ice cream will be served at 6:30pm followed by our annual meeting, music by Rouge River Connection, a live auction to cover the costs of the sale and guest speaker Margaret Amanatides. This is a wonderful opportunity to hear about the work of MCC and support the Black Creek Pioneer Village Relief Sale. Hope to see you there!

Out of Town Events
Feb. 23 – “What Does Anabaptism Offer To A Post-Christendom World?” free public address with Stuart Murray, author of The Naked Anabaptist 7:30pm at Conrad Grebel University. See posting.

MCEC Highlighted Events
* School for Ministers               
February 22 - 24, 2012
Conrad Grebel University College
with Stuart Murray Williams
* Youth Bible Quizzing
April 14, 2012
East Zorra Mennonite Church
* MCEC Annual Church Gathering
April 27 - 28, 2012
UMEI, Leamington, ON

March 4th, 5 pm: Plan to attend or support from afar a fundraiser and information night for Mennonite Church Canada's peace ministry in the Philippines, in honour of Gerd Bartel's faithful ministry with Mennonite Church Canada.  Learn about the work of Dann and Joji Pantoja, enjoy their Coffee for Peace brand, along with snacks, presentations, and inspiration about an amazing reconciliation ministry in a land of conflict, and hear Christina and Darnell Barkman introduce their upcoming church planting assignment in Manilla. Event location: Peace Mennonite Church (11571 Daniels Rd Richmond, BC). Please RSVP, or if unable to attend, send greetings and donations via www.mennonitechurch.ca/events/pmf or contact Daniel Horne at dhorne@mennonitechurch.ca  or (204) 960-5234.

Mennonite Central Committee Updates:
Journeys of Healing and Empowerment - Settlement is often difficult as refugees and immigrants deal with culture shock, isolation and trauma. This interactive workshop will raise awareness of the issues which refugees and immigrants face during the settlement process and how to support them. Visit mcco.ca/events.
February 25 - St. Catharines,
March 10 – Danforth Mennonite Church, Toronto
April 14 – Kitchener. See posting in foyer.


Mennonite Central Committee welcomes inquiries for the position of Area Director -Europe and Middle East. Interested individuals are asked to contact Amgad Tadros at 204-261-6381 or email amgadtadros@mennonitecc.ca.  More information is available at mcc.org/serve/positions
Employment opportunities available at Mennonite Central Committee Ontario: (MCCO)
Complete job descriptions and deadlines available at mcc.org/serve/positions for the following positions:
* Human Resources Coordinator Kitchener, Permanent, Full Time position.
* General Manager, Et Cetera Furniture & More Thrift Shop Leamington, Permanent, Full Time position.
* Circles of Support and Accountability Program Associate Toronto, Permanent, Part Time position.
* Regional Representative Toronto, Contract, Part Time position

ARC Workshop - Leading Committee and Congregational Meetings
Saturday, March 24, 2012, 9 a.m. - 12 noon
Conrad Grebel University College, 140 Westmount Rd. N., Waterloo, ON. Cost:  $50 per person; $75 for two-five people from the same congregation. Registration Deadline:  Saturday, March 10, 2012, Register with ARC at 519-883-8906 or info@arcministries.ca  Leader: Betty Pries. The work of the church, whether at committee or congregational meetings, often involves tough decisions - each of which presents both promise and peril.  Led well, challenging conversations can strengthen congregational engagement and deepen the spirituality of the church.  Led less well, however, these same conversations can tear at the very fabric of the church.  This workshop is for anyone who finds themselves leading meetings at church who has wondered how they can improve their skills in this important part of the church's ministry and identity.

Canadian Mennonite University Updates:
Mar. 9-11, 2012 – CMU invites high school students to attend PIT 2012.  PIT offers a special kind of peace conference, where participants can also connect, play, and engage in worship and workshops with youth from across Canada. Visit www.cmu.ca/pit  for more details.  Registration increases after January 31, 2012.
* Journey through time on the CMU Study Tour: Ancient Stones, Living Stones: the Holy Land in Perspective. Travel April 30 – May 21, 2012 with leader Gordon Matties, Professor of Biblical & Theological Studies.  Visit www.cmu.ca/studytour for more details.
* Come this summer to learn with other peacebuilders – local and international, young and old, students, practitioners and those new to peacebuilding – at the fourth annual Canadian School of Peacebuilding.  We invite you to participate in your choice of five-day courses for personal inspiration, professional development, or academic credit. More information is available at www.csop.cmu.ca  or by e-mailing csop@cmu.ca.
*  “Youth Ministry as School of Love” is a youth ministry conference planned for June 1 - 2 at CMU.  The conference will feature Mark Yaconelli and Michael Hryniuk.  Participants can register for this conference separately or participate in it as part of a week long course.  Contact  abergen@cmu.ca.
* CMU Study Tour with Irma Fast Dueck. Explore the wild physical, social and theological Christian landscapes in Great Britain. Tour includes Greenbelt Christian Arts Festival, London and Glasgow, and the Iona Community, August 23 to September 8, 2012. Application deadline: March 2, 2012. Visit http://www.cmu.ca/deepDown/

CMU announces an essay contest for Manitoba High School Students interested in the Humanities. The contest invites students to engage with important questions about art, ethics, and theology.  Prize money will be awarded. Essays are due March 31. View contest details at http://media.cmu.ca/index.php/2012/cmu-humanities-faculty-announces-essay-contest/ or contact Andre Forget, aforget@cmu.ca
Need book club ideas? Save 20% when you order 6 or more copies of any CMU Press title! Suggested titles include: This Hidden Thing by Dora Dueck, Favoured among Women by Hendy Leonora Martens, Desert Spirituality and Cultural Resistance by Belden C. Lane. Visit www.cmu.ca/cmupress for book club questions.

Mennonite Coalition for Refugee Support Celebrates 25 Years
Join us at our 25th Anniversary Fundraising Banquet happening at Knox Presbyterian Church in Waterloo on Saturday April 21, 6:00 pm.  Tickets are $35.00 and are available at www.mcrs.ca/25years or call (519) 571-1912. Keynote speaker Dr. Ginette Lafrenière: "What we claim to be true: reflections on vulnerability and resiliency."

 Notes
 This is how your financial support of Mennonite Church Canada is ministering...from across the street to around the world!  Thanks to your generosity, Mennonite Church Canada’s Native Ministry is developing a new curriculum; Creation’s Harmony Way. In this study guide, twelve leading thinkers and activists explore what it means to live well with creation, and what that means practically for native and nonnative relationships here in Turtle Island – North America. Please pray for the authors as they craft their pieces, and pray for the editors too; that they might communicate this material in a way that shares the “good news” and its urgent call to action.





_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Welcome to
Rouge Valley         
Mennonite Church
Worship Service 10:00 a.m.

February 12, 2012
Technology

Ushers: Trisha Ashworth, Brian Drudge, Valerie Wong, Song Leader: Mark Schaub, Pianist: Nancy Burkholder, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman, Hugh Laurence, Lys Laurence.
Prelude
Welcome & Ministries of the People
Call to Worship
Opening Prayer
Songs Come Gather ‘Round & Enough for All (Monitors)
Hymn HWB 143 Amazing grace (vs. 1, 2, 3 & 6)
Prayers of the People
Offering Prayer
Offertory
Children’s time
Child care
Scripture Reading 1 Peter 4:8-11(pg. 985 & 986) 1 John 4:7-21 (pg. 991 in Bibles)
Speaker Hugh Laurence
DVD Presentation (Monitors)
Hymn SJ 105 Don’t be afraid
Benediction
Coffee Time
Discussion Groups

TODAY - Long Term Visioning meeting after worship in the Hospitality Room, bring a bag lunch.
     - Prayer/Potluck groups meet as follows:
* Stouffville West meets for lunch at Paul & Nancy’s.
* Stouffville East meets for lunch at the Pogue’s.
     - Rouge Valley leads worship 3:00pm at Parkview Home.

CONGREGATIONAL CALENDAR
This week
Tues., Feb. 14 – Congregational Care Elders meeting 9:15am at Trudy Burkholder’s.
    - Worship planning meeting 11:30am at the church.
- MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.

Wed., Feb. 15 - Out of the Cold program 3:00pm to 8:00am Thursday morning. Volunteers are needed, see white binder in foyer or speak to Taucha Inrig.
         
Sun., Feb. 19 – Cash versus Plastic versus Cell - Ushers: Trisha Ashworth, Brian Drudge, Valerie Wong, Song Leader: Ann Reesor, Pianist: Freda Burkholder, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.
     - Sound of Scripture Story Telling meeting after worship in Hospitality Room bring a bag lunch.

Coming up:
Tues., Feb. 21 – Congregational Care Elders meeting 9:15am at Trudy Burkholder’s.
    - Living Room meeting 1:00 to 2:30pm at the church.
    - Women’s Bible study group meets 7:00pm at the church.
- MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.

Wed., Feb. 22 - Out of the Cold program 3:00pm to 8:00am Thursday morning. Volunteers are needed, see white binder in foyer or speak to Taucha Inrig.

Wed., Feb. 29 – Women’s Prayer group to meet 2:00pm at Evelyn Burkholder’s.

Thurs., Mar. 1 – Leadership Elders meeting 9:15am at the church.
- Liaison Ministry meeting between Rouge Valley and Church on the Rock, 7:00pm at the church.

Sat., Mar. 10 – Sound of Scripture Workshop follow up with John Epp 10:00am to 12 noon at the church

Sun., Mar. 11 – Durham Prayer/Potluck group will meet for simple finger food lunch at the church.

Community Events:
 Family Day open House at Willowgrove, Mon., Feb. 20, 10:00am to 3:00pm. Free day of fun on the farm! See posting in foyer for details.

Waging Peace Tour - A documentary about overcoming interfaith mistrust, featuring Ontario Christians and Muslims. A screening and panel discussion with Executive Producer Sheri Hartzler. Visit ontario.mcc.org/waging-peace-tour.
* February 17, 7 pm Turkish Cultural Centre, Toronto
* February 19, 2 pm Toronto United Mennonite Church 1774 Queen Street East, Toronto

Feb. 24-26 – Revenge and the Gift, presented by Mississauga Mennonite Fellowship. Why do we love movies about revenge? Why do we have trouble giving gifts? For further details on this presentation through movies and television see handout in your church mailboxes.

Sat., Feb. 25 - The Pregnancy Centre's breakfast and annual meeting will be held at 9:00am at The Bridge, 5440 Sixteenth Ave. in Markham. Everyone is welcome!

Mark your Calendars for our annual Quilt Knotting Blitz - Sat., Mar. 3 - 9:30am to 3:30pm at the church, all ages and genders are welcome! Quilt tops are needed; dimensions are 60” by 80” (single) or 72” by 90” (double). For details contact Bev Moyle 905-839-3692, Dorothy Reesor 905-294-3427, or Ellie Nash 905-294-0820.Quilts to be donated to Mennonite Central Committee. Purchase a soup lunch and help support MCC.

Save the date, Thurs., Mar. 1, Food for Change – Action Day Cultivating a Healthier Food System in York Region. Location: Angus Glen Community Centre, 3990 Major Mackenzie Dr. E., in Markham, Activity Room 1, 9:30am to 4:00pm. Limited seating, to pre-register email: foodcharter@yrfn.ca

Sat., Mar. 10 – Sound of Scripture workshop follow up meeting with John Epp, 10:00am to 12 noon at Rouge Valley.

Mennonite Central Committee Updates:
Journeys of Healing and Empowerment - Settlement is often difficult as refugees and immigrants deal with culture shock, isolation and trauma. This interactive workshop will raise awareness of the issues which refugees and immigrants face during the settlement process and how to support them. Visit mcco.ca/events.
February 25 - St. Catharines, March 10 – Toronto, April 14 – Kitchener.

Notes
Pastor Pieter Niemeyer will be attending the School for Ministers Feb. 22 to 24, at Conrad Grebel University College in Waterloo.

Mennonite Central Committee welcomes inquiries for the position of Area Director -Europe and Middle East. Interested individuals are asked to contact Amgad Tadros at 204-261-6381 or email amgadtadros@mennonitecc.ca.  More information is available at mcc.org/serve/positions
Employment opportunities available at Mennonite Central Committee Ontario: (MCCO)
Complete job descriptions and deadlines available at mcc.org/serve/positions for the following positions:
* Human Resources Coordinator Kitchener, Permanent, Full Time position.
* General Manager, Et Cetera Furniture & More Thrift Shop Leamington, Permanent, Full Time position.
* Circles of Support and Accountability Program Associate Toronto, Permanent, Part Time position.
* Regional Representative Toronto, Contract, Part Time position


For other events happening within our community and out of town, see Announcement Sheet for Jan. 29 to Feb. 19/12.

See poster in foyer for the No More Silence campaign. National day of action honouring missing and murdered indigenous women, February 11 & 14.

Markham/Stouffville area churches continue to search for a half time youth ministry pastor. Please consider prayerfully possible candidates. Applications can be made through MCEC, attention Muriel Bechtel. Or for more information contact Lois Bukar at Wideman Mennonite Church, 905-640-6219.

This is how your financial support of Mennonite Church Canada is ministering...from across the street to around the world!  Our sincere thanks for your financial support in 2011! You have made it possible for Mennonite Church Canada’s Resource Centre to strengthen church health by circulating hundreds of loaned items across Canada to congregations for free, increase holdings by over 750 titles, and be sending 30 displays to congregational and Area Church events. Online resources alone were
viewed a record 110,000 times! 

See Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) update for February 9, 2012 on shelf in foyer.
After prayerful consideration Pat Binks, Administrative Assistant for our congregation has decided to retire from her position beginning March 31st. An Ad Hoc Search Committee is being assembled. If you have any questions please speak to Paul W. Reesor, Ministry Council chair.



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Welcome to
Rouge Valley         
Mennonite Church
Worship Service 10:00 a.m.

February 5, 2012
Listening to God for 2012

Ushers: Trisha Ashworth, Brian Drudge, Valerie Wong, Song Leader: Ann Reesor, Pianist: Lisa Schaub, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman, Hugh Laurence, Trisha Ashworth.
Prelude
Welcome & Ministries of the People
Call to Worship
Opening Prayer
Hymn HWB 1 What is this place
Hymn HWB 545 Be thou my vision
Prayers of the People
Offering Prayer
Offertory
Children’s time
Child care
Scripture Reading John 14:27; 16:30 (pg. 877 & 878 in Bibles) & Ephesians 2:13-22 (pg. 950 In bibles)
Speaker Hugh Laurence
DVD Presentation Reboot 4A (Monitors)
Hymn SS 39 Will you come and follow me
Benediction
Coffee Time 10:45-11:00
Discussions Groups 11:00-11:45
Bag Lunch 11:45-12:30
Gathering Time for Discerning Vision & Disbursements for Ministry 2012, 12:30-2:00pm
Child Care Available in Cedar Grove Meetinghouse – Crafts & Games
Skating at Cedarena 1:00pm (weather permitting)

CONGREGATIONAL CALENDAR
This week
Tues., Feb. 7 - Living Room meeting 1:00 to 2:30pm at the church.
- MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.
- Women’s Bible study 7:00pm at the church.
Wed., Feb. 8 - Out of the Cold program 3:00pm to 8:00am Thursday morning. Volunteers are needed, see white binder in foyer or speak to Taucha Inrig.
- Ministry Council meeting 7:30pm in the Cedar Grove Meetinghouse.

Sat., Feb. 11 – Vacation Bible School meeting 8:30am at the church.
        - Valentine's Celebration Mennonite Youth Fellowship Fundraiser for future missions and conference trips at Rouge Valley Mennonite Church 5:30pm arrivals, dinner to be served at 6:00pm, freewill offering. Look forward to an evening of a delicious spaghetti dinner and a delightful dessert surprise while you enjoy music and entertainment from our youth.
 
Sun., Feb. 12 – Technology - Ushers: Trisha Ashworth, Brian Drudge, Valerie Wong, Song Leader: Mark Schaub, Pianist: Nancy Burkholder, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman, Hugh Laurence.
     - Long Term Visioning meeting after worship in the Hospitality Room, bring a bag lunch.
     - Prayer/Potluck groups meet as follows:
* Durham meets at the church for lunch followed by skating at Cedarena.
* Stouffville West meets for lunch at Paul & Nancy’s.
* Stouffville East meets for lunch at the Pogue’s.
     - Rouge Valley leads worship 3:00pm at Parkview Home.

Coming up:
Tues., Feb. 14 – Congregational Care Elders meeting 9:15am at Trudy Burkholder’s.
- MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.

Wed., Feb. 15 - Out of the Cold program 3:00pm to 8:00am Thursday morning. Volunteers are needed, see white binder in foyer or speak to Taucha Inrig.

Community Events:
Sat., Feb. 11 - Valentine's Celebration Mennonite Youth Fellowship Fundraiser for future missions and conference trips at Rouge Valley Mennonite Church 5:30pm arrivals, dinner to be served at 6:00pm, freewill offering. Look forward to an evening of a delicious spaghetti dinner and a delightful dessert surprise while you enjoy music and entertainment from our youth.
 
Family Day open House at Willowgrove, Mon., Feb. 20, 10:00am to 3:00pm. Free day of fun on the farm! See posting in foyer for details.

Save the date, Thurs., Mar. 1, Food for Change – Action Day Cultivating a Healthier Food System in York Region. Location: Angus Glen Community Centre, 3990 Major Mackenzie Dr. E., in Markham, Activity Room 1, 9:30am to 4:00pm. Limited seating, to pre-register email: foodcharter@yrfn.ca

Notes
For other events happening within our community and out of town, see Announcement Sheet for Jan. 29 to Feb. 19/12.

This is how your financial support of Mennonite Church Canada is ministering...from across the street to around the world!  Thanks to your support of Mennonite Church Canada, short-term resource worker Palmer Becker of Waterloo North Mennonite Church continues to teach Anabaptist theology. In Nov. and Dec. 2011, Palmer taught in China, Vietnam and Thailand. Over 60 participants in Borabu, Thailand attended the first ever inter-Mennonite seminar in that country. One participant said “(this) was a good reminder that we are part of a broader community that shares our beliefs and hopes.”

Markham/Stouffville area churches continue to search for a half time youth ministry pastor. Please consider prayerfully possible candidates. Applications can be made through MCEC, attention Muriel Bechtel. Or for more information contact Lois Bukar at Wideman Mennonite Church, 905-640-6219.

Canadian Mennonite University   www.cmu.ca
“Youth Ministry as School of Love” is a youth ministry conference planned for June 1 - 2 at CMU.  The conference will feature Mark Yaconelli and Michael Hryniuk.  Participants can register for this conference separately or participate in it as part of a week long course.  Contact  abergen@cmu.ca.

The Hagerman Mennonite Church would like to thank you for your generous gifts of furnishings, clothing and money to set up a home for Roberson and his family. Tickets have been purchased for the family to depart from the DR Congo on Saturday February 4 and arrive in Toronto Sunday February 5. You are invited to an open house on Sunday February 12 from 1:00 to 3:00 pm at the Hagerman Church to meet the family. Pray for them as they adjust to a new country and in living together as a family after a five year separation.

See poster in foyer for the No More Silence campaign. National day of action honouring missing and murdered indigenous women, February 11 and 14.


Praise God!
  On December 5th, Marian Wiens, Mennonite Church Canada worker in Korea, was present at the birth of Lomie Spicher Lee, daughter of Karen Spicher, Mennonite Mission Network worker, and Jae Young Lee, Director of the Connexus Language Institute associated with the Korea Anabaptist Center. We rejoice for this new life and the work of ministry partners in Korea. (Witness Worker Update, pg. 12.)

Pray for Claire Evans, long-time CPT member, as she begins hospice care. Give thanks for her faithful work for peace and justice.






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Welcome to
Rouge Valley         
Mennonite Church
Worship Service 10:00 a.m.

January 29, 2012
Consumer Conscience & Peer Pressure

Ushers: Susan Prestwich, Laurie Hadden, Simon Martin, Song Leader: Ellie Nash, Pianist: Elinor Hansen, Worship Leaders: Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman, Pastor Cameron Kaufman-Frey, Freda Burkholder, Lisa Schaub, Trisha Ashworth.
Prelude
Welcome & Ministries of the People
Call to Worship (Monitors)
Opening Prayer
Hymn HWB 120 Holy, holy, holy
Hymn SJ 23 Slowly turning, every turning
Prayers of the People
Offering Prayer
Offertory
Children’s time
Child care
Scripture Reading Proverbs 22:16, 22-23 (pg. 527 in Bibles) Matthew 20:1-16 (pg. 801 in Bibles)
Speaker Pastor Cameron Kaufman-Frey, from Community Mennonite Church of Stouffville
Sermon Title Can you solve the shopper’s dilemma; cheaper, better or nicer?
DVD Presentation (Monitors)
Hymn HWB 150 Wonderful grace of Jesus
Benediction
Coffee Time & Discussions Groups

CONGREGATIONAL CALENDAR
This week
Tues., Jan. 31- Leadership Elders meeting 9:15 am at the church.
    - MYF Bible study 7:00pm, location TBA.

Wed., Feb. 1 - Out of the Cold program 3:00pm to 8:00am Thursday morning. To volunteer, see white binder in foyer or speak to Taucha Inrig.

Thurs., Feb. 2 – Sewing Circle 9:30am to 3:30pm in Cedar Grove Meetinghouse. If you are staying over the lunch hour please bring a sack lunch, coffee provided. All are welcome.
Sat., Feb. 4 - Come dressed for dinner in your finest RED!  “ROYAL RED NIGHT” for your delight includes dinner, 6:00pm at the church. Please bring a red dessert to consume with tea.  Brought to you by R&R (Recreate & Re-Create Ministry) - keeping you on your royal toes.  Please sign up TODAY.

Sun., Feb. 5– 2nd Sunday of our AGM.  Ushers: Trisha Ashworth, Brian Drudge, Valerie Wong, Song Leader: Ann Reesor, Pianist: Lisa Schaub, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.
- Worship 10:00-10:45am, listening to the call of God for 2012
- Coffee time 10:45-11:00am
- Discussion groups on presentation from worship 11:00-11:45am
- Bag lunch 11:45am-12:30pm
- Gathered time for discerning vision and disbursements for ministry in 2012, 12:30-2:00pm
There will be child care in the Cedar Grove Meetinghouse, after lunch with crafts and games and skating beginning at 1:00pm (weather permitting) at Cedarena. Cost is $2.50 for ages 3 to 15 and $5.00 for 16 and over.
Coming up:
Tues., Feb. 7 - Living Room meeting 1:00 to 2:30pm at the church.
- MYF Bible study 7:00pm location to be decided.
- Women’s Bible study 7:00pm at the church.
Wed., Feb. 8 - Out of the Cold program 3:00pm to 8:00am Thursday morning. Volunteers are needed, see white binder in foyer or speak to Taucha Inrig.
    - Ministry Council meeting 7:30pm in the Cedar Grove Meetinghouse.

Sun., Feb. 12 - Ushers: Trisha Ashworth, Brian Drudge, Valerie Wong, Song Leader: Ann Reesor, Pianist: Needed, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.
- Worship 10:00-10:45am, listening to the call of God for 2012
- Coffee time 10:45-11:00am
      – Prayer/Potluck groups meet as follows:
* Durham meets at the church for lunch followed by skating at Cedarena.
* Stouffville West meets for lunch at Paul & Nancy’s.
* Stouffville East meets for lunch at the Pogue’s.
Community Event:
Sat., Feb. 11 - Valentine's Celebration Mennonite Youth Fellowship Fundraiser for future missions and conference trips at Rouge Valley Mennonite Church 5:30pm arrivals, dinner to be served at 6:00pm, freewill offering. Look forward to an evening of a delicious spaghetti dinner and a delightful dessert surprise while you enjoy music and entertainment from our youth.
 
Notes
For other events happening within our community and out of town, see Announcement Sheet for Jan. 29 to Feb. 19/12 in your church mailboxes.

OUT OF THE COLD CLOTHING BANK:  Items requested:  We have enough women's clothing now.  For men: jeans, t-shirts, undershirts, hoodies (most requested item), belts, warm parkas/jackets (preferred with hoods), fleece, running shoes & boots size 9 and up.  All these can be second hand, but must be clean and ready to use.  No more sweaters or scarfs needed. Because the guests usually wear 'layers', size large and extra large is requested.  Bags of donations can be brought anytime, but please label "For OOTC". If there are any other items you wish to donate, please ask Lys Laurence before you bring them.

This is how your financial support of Mennonite Church Canada is ministering...from across the street to around the world!  Your financial contributions are bringing the church’s voice to national and world leaders. Last fall, Willard Metzger, Mennonite Church Canada General Secretary, joined about 100 other faith group leaders for a discussion with Federal MPs about developing a Canadian Office for Religious Freedom. In October, Willard addressed Senators and MPs about climate justice. His remarks were distributed to all elected Federal leaders and Senators. Subsequently, he was invited by the World
Council of Churches to participate in the 2011 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Durban, South Africa. Together, we speak volumes. Thank you.

MDS invites their volunteers to participate in MCC Ontario’s response to Attawapiskat.   MCC Ontario will lead the response to an invitation from community leaders to erect modular homes in this isolated community. MDS supports and encourages skilled (licensed) volunteers to participate.  MCCO has nurtured relationships in Attawapiskat for 20 years.  If you are interested please contact Lyndsay Mollins Koene, MCCO at 705-264-2494.

Markham/Stouffville area churches continue to search for a half time youth ministry pastor. Please consider prayerfully possible candidates. Applications can be made through MCEC, attention Muriel Bechtel. Or for more information contact Lois Bukar at Wideman Mennonite Church, 905-640-6219.

Pray with CPT for all First Nations people in Canada taking leadership in stopping the Tar Sands project. Oil production from the sands would sacrifice land, ecosystems, human health, and cultural heritage.

See Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) update for January 26, 2012 on shelf in foyer.
 




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Rouge Valley
Mennonite Church   
Announcement Sheet

January 29, to February 19, 2012


Community Events
Sopranos wanted: Pax Christi Chorale seeks additional chorus sopranos for the performance of Elgar’s” The Kingdom" in Koerner Hall, May 6th, 2012.  Monday rehearsals begin January 9th at Yonge and Sheppard. Please contact Dan Norman at daniel@ssjd.ca to arrange an audition.


Out of Town Events
Feb. 23 – “What Does Anabaptism Offer To A Post-Christendom World?” free public address with Stuart Murray, author of The Naked Anabaptist 7:30pm at Conrad Grebel University. See posting.

Canadian Mennonite University Updates:
Mar. 9-11, 2012 – CMU invites high school students to attend PIT 2012.  PIT offers a special kind of peace conference, where participants can also connect, play, and engage in worship and workshops with youth from across Canada. Visit www.cmu.ca/pit  for more details.  Registration increases after January 31, 2012.
* Journey through time on the CMU Study Tour: Ancient Stones, Living Stones: the Holy Land in Perspective. Travel April 30 – May 21, 2012 with leader Gordon Matties, Professor of Biblical & Theological Studies.  Visit www.cmu.ca/studytour for more details.
* Come this summer to learn with other peacebuilders – local and international, young and old, students, practitioners and those new to peacebuilding – at the fourth annual Canadian School of Peacebuilding.  We invite you to participate in your choice of five-day courses for personal inspiration, professional development, or academic credit. More information is available at www.csop.cmu.ca  or by e-mailing csop@cmu.ca.
* “Youth Ministry as School of Love” is a youth ministry conference planned for June 1 - 2 at CMU.  The conference will feature Mark Yaconelli and Michael Hryniuk.  Participants can register for this conference separately or participate in it as part of a week long course.  Contact  abergen@cmu.ca.
* CMU Study Tour with Irma Fast Dueck. Explore the wild physical, social and theological Christian landscapes in Great Britain. Tour includes Greenbelt Christian Arts Festival, London and Glasgow, and the Iona Community, August 23 to September 8, 2012. Application deadline: March 2, 2012. Visit http://www.cmu.ca/deepDown/

Notes

Mennonite Central Committee Updates:
31st Annual Heifer Sale, Fri., Feb. 17, Carson's Auction, Listowel. All proceeds support MCC. To sponsor or donate a heifer, contact Clarence Diefenbacher (519-669-2164) or MCC (519-745-8458). Visit heifersale.org.
Housing Partnership in Attawapiskat, By invitation, MCC Ontario is sending small teams of skilled or licensed tradespeople for 2 week periods beginning in February. Teams will work under local leadership in setting up modular homes and learning about the first peoples who welcomed us here. For more information, please contact Lyndsay Mollins Koene (lyndsaymk@mennonitecc.on.ca, 705-264-2494) or visit mcco.ca/aboriginal 
Volunteers will need to cover (or fund raise) all costs including travel and accommodations.  Please prayerfully consider this opportunity to share a practical message of love with our neighbours in Attawapiskat.
SALT Applications Due Feb. 15 Serve | Learn | Grow Year-long cross-cultural learning experience for young adults. Visit salt.mcc.org
Waging Peace Tour 
A documentary about overcoming interfaith mistrust, featuring Ontario Christians and Muslims. A screening and panel discussion with Executive Producer Sheri Hartzler. Visit ontario.mcc.org/waging-peace-tour. Feb. 19, 2 pm at Toronto United Mennonite Church, 1774 Queen Street East, Toronto.
 
This is how your financial support of Mennonite Church Canada is ministering...from across the street to around the world!  With your support, there are Mennonite Church Canada ministers in 26 countries including Canada. Through evangelism and church planting, education and leadership training, peace and conflict resolution training, community development, and ministry partnerships we are growing
relationships for God’s holistic vision of shalom inside the church and beyond. Thank you!

Yella! 2012 A Middle Eastern Tour for Young Adults. Are you between the ages of 18 and 25, interested in Israel and Palestine and available to travel during the month of May? Come explore questions of Christian faith and life as you:
* Interact with Christians, Jews and Muslims
* Encounter complex peace and conflict issues
* Consider the context for Jesus' life and ministry
Interested? Visit ontario.mcc.org/yella






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Welcome to
Rouge Valley         
Mennonite Church
Worship Service 10:00 a.m.

January 22, 2012
Sharing in Practice

Ushers: Susan Prestwich, Tom Farrar, Simon Martin, Song Leader: Louise Pogue, Pianist: Julie Nash.
Prelude
We will be lead thru an order of service today of celebrating sharing in practice.
Coffee Time 10:45-11:00am
Discussions Groups 11:00-11:45am
Gathered time for Q & A Re: Proposed Budget Scenarios & 2011 Financials 11:45am-12:15pm

CONGREGATIONAL CALENDAR
This week
Tues., Jan. 24 - MYF Bible study 7:00pm, location TBA.
- Living Room meeting 1:00-2:30pm at the church.
- Worship Planning meeting 3:00pm at the church.
- Women’s Bible study 7:00pm at RV.

Wed., Jan. 25 - Out of the Cold program 3:00pm to 8:00am Thursday morning. To volunteer, see white binder in foyer or speak to Taucha Inrig.

Sat., Jan. 28 – The Sound of Scripture, a workshop at the church, 9:00am to 12 noon, led by John Epp, on practical tools for learning and proclaiming biblical stories with confidence. Not good at memorizing? Neither are we! Come and learn a more life giving way of learning and telling scripture by heart. No drama. No acting. Only a passion to see the power and beauty of the biblical story come alive. All are welcome, men, women, children, seniors and youth. You need to bring one biblical story you will learn. Cost $25 payable upon attendance.  For further details contact Pastor Pieter Niemeyer via email pieter@rvmc.ca for planning purposes please register by contacting the church office 905-294-6242. See posting in foyer.

Sun., Jan. 29 – Ushers: Consumer Conscience & Peer Pressure. Ushers: Susan Prestwich, Laurie Hadden, Simon Martin, Song Leader: Ellie Nash, Pianist: Elinor Hansen, Worship Leaders: Pastor Cameron Kaufman-Frey, from Community Mennonite Church of Stouffville, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.

Coming up:
Tues., Jan. 31- Leadership Elders meeting  9:15 am at the church.

Wed., Feb. 1 - Out of the Cold program 3:00pm to 8:00am Thursday morning. To volunteer, see white binder in foyer or speak to Taucha Inrig.

Thurs., Feb. 2 – Sewing Circle 9:30am to 3:30pm in Cedar Grove Meetinghouse. If you are staying over the lunch hour please bring a sack lunch, coffee provided. All are welcome.

Sat., Feb. 4 - Come dressed for dinner in your finest RED!  “ROYAL RED NIGHT” for your delight includes dinner, 6:00pm at the church. Please bring a red dessert to consume with tea.  Brought to you by R&R (Recreate & Re-Create Ministry) - keeping you on your royal toes.  Please sign up by Jan 29.

Sun., Feb. 5– 2nd Sunday of our AGM.  Ushers: Trisha Ashworth, Brian Drudge, Valerie Wong, Song Leader: Ann Reesor, Pianist: Needed, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.
- Worship 10:00-10:45am, listening to the call of God for 2012
- Coffee time 10:45-11:00am
- Discussion groups on presentation from worship 11:00-11:45am
- Bag lunch 11:45am-12:30pm
- Gathered time for discerning vision and disbursements for ministry in 2012, 12:30-2:00pm
There will be child care in the Cedar Grove Meetinghouse, beginning at 12:30pm with crafts and games and skating beginning at 1:00pm (weather permitting) at Cedarena. Cost is $2.50 for ages 3 to 15 and $5.00 for 16 and over.

Sun., Feb. 12 – Prayer/Potluck groups meet as follows:
* Durham meets at the church for lunch followed by skating at Cedarena.
* Stouffville West meets for lunch at Paul & Nancy’s.
* Stouffville East meets for lunch at the Pogue’s.

Community Events:
What? MYF Ministry Pizza lunch! 
TODAY AT 1:00 p.m.
Where? Wideman Mennonite Church.
Who can come? If you are connected with MYF in any way; youth, parents, Sponsors, or on any of the support committee's, or an interested person in MYF, you are welcome to come out.
Why? This will be a time to connect. Share stories, get updates and field any questions you may have.

Tues., Jan. 24 – Rouge Park: Sharing Ideas Information Session for Cedar Grove Community, 7:00 to 9:00pm at the Cedar Grove Community Centre, on 14th Avenue east of Reesor Rd. Topics covered will include: Bob Hunter Memorial Park, Rouge Park Trails Master Plan, Rouge Park Ambassador Program, Stewardship Activities, Guided Walks and Upcoming Events. For more information contact Michelle Holmes, Manager of Visitor Experience at or call 905-713-6021. See poster in foyer.

Notes
Pastor Pieter Niemeyer will be preaching at Hagerman Mennonite church on Sun., Jan. 29/12.

The last Sunday of each month will be 'Food Bank Sunday'. Donations will go to the Markham, Scarborough, and Oshawa food banks.  Please bring your non-perishable food donations next Sun., Jan.  29.

For other events happening within our community and out of town, see Announcement Sheet for Jan. 8 to Jan. 29/12.

OUT OF THE COLD CLOTHING BANK:  Items requested:  We have enough women's clothing now.  For men: jeans, t-shirts, undershirts, hoodies (most requested item), belts, warm parkas/jackets (preferred with hoods), fleece, running shoes & boots size 9 and up.  All these can be second hand, but must be clean and ready to use.  No more sweaters or scarfs.  Because the guests usually wear 'layers', size large and extra large is requested.  Bags of donations can be brought anytime, but please label "For OOTC". If there are any other items you wish to donate, please ask Lys Laurence before you bring them.

This is how your financial support of Mennonite Church Canada is ministering...from across the street to around the world!  Your financial contributions are bringing the church’s voice to national and world leaders. Last fall, Willard Metzger, Mennonite Church Canada General Secretary, joined about 100 other faith group leaders for a discussion with Federal MPs about developing a Canadian Office for Religious Freedom. In October, Willard addressed Senators and MPs about climate justice. His remarks were distributed to all elected Federal leaders and Senators. Subsequently, he was invited by the World
Council of Churches to participate in the 2011 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Durban, South Africa. Together, we speak volumes. Thank you.

MDS invites their volunteers to participate in MCC Ontario’s response to Attawapiskat.   MCC Ontario will lead the response to an invitation from community leaders to erect modular homes in this isolated community. MDS supports and encourages skilled (licensed) volunteers to participate.  MCCO has nurtured relationships in Attawapiskat for 20 years.  If you are interested please contact Lyndsay Mollins Koene, MCCO at 705-264-2494.

Markham/Stouffville area churches continue to search for a half time youth ministry pastor. Please consider prayerfully possible candidates. Applications can be made through MCEC, attention Muriel Bechtel. Or for more information contact Lois Bukar at Wideman Mennonite Church, 905-640-6219.

Mennonite Central Committee Updates: A message from Rick Cober Bauman:
Attawapiskat does not want our pity. They want our partnership. On Jan. 11, MCC Ontario was invited to send volunteer trades people in small, short-term teams to hammer and lift alongside Attawapiskat workers, under the direction of Attawapiskat leaders. As they set up the modular homes – that are being sent in on the winter roads – these volunteers are going to learn more than most Canadians about the relationships between newcomers and the first people who welcomed us here. They will learn that the men and women and children of Attawapiskat are far more than "victims." Skills, humour, stories, wisdom are all integral parts of this community, but these strengths have been hard for us to see on the late news in recent weeks.
We are honoured to have been invited. We are honoured to be allowed to be bearers of God's love and compassion to our neighbours on the James Bay Coast.
Housing Partnership in Attawapiskat:
By invitation, MCC Ontario is sending small teams of skilled trades people for 2 week periods beginning February 1. Teams will work under local leadership in setting up modular homes and learning about the first peoples who welcomed us here. For more information, contact Lyndsay Mollins Koene (lyndsaymk@mennonitecc.on.ca, 705-264-2494) or visit mcco.ca/aboriginal
Volunteers will need to cover (or fund raise) all costs including travel and accommodations.  Prayerfully consider this opportunity to share a practical message of love to our neighbours in Attawapiskat.





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Welcome to
Rouge Valley         
Mennonite Church
Worship Service 10:00 a.m.

January 15, 2012
Needs & Wants

Ushers: Susan Prestwich, Laurie Hadden, Simon Martin, Song Leader: Ellie Nash, Pianist: Nancy Burkholder, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman, Lisa Schaub, John David & Trisha Ashworth.
Prelude
Welcome & Ministries of the People
Call to Worship
Opening Prayer
Hymn 6 HWB Here in this place
Hymn 10 SJ Spirit working in creation
Prayers of the People & Offering Prayer (Monitors)
Offertory
Children’s time
Child care
Scripture Reading Jonah 2 (pg. 752 in Bibles)
Sermon Lisa Schaub
DVD Presentation (Monitors)
Hymn 327 HWB Great is thy faithfulness
Benediction
Coffee Time & Discussions Groups

Let’s remember in our prayers:
This week please remember in your prayers Letitia Wise and Valerie & Leighton Wong that they may witness to what God is doing in their lives.

Pray for Reverend Salvador Alcántera and other Colombian farmers who have received death threats as they struggle to remain on their lands. CPT accompanied Alcántera and his family out of the Magdalena Medio region and continues partnerships with farming communities.


CONGREGATIONAL CALENDAR
This week
TODAY - Long Term Visioning meeting in the Hospitality Room after the worship service.
Tues., Jan. 17 - MYF Bible study 7:00pm, location TBA.

Wed., Jan. 18- Women’s Prayer group meets at Evelyn Burkholder’s at 2:00pm.
    - Out of the Cold begins 3:00pm to 8:00am Thursday morning. This programs runs for 11 weeks until Wed., Mar. 28/12. To volunteer, see white binder in foyer or speak to Taucha Inrig.

Sun., Jan. 22 – 1st Sunday of our AGM. Worship 10:00-10:45am, Ushers: Susan Prestwich, Laurie Hadden, Simon Martin, Song Leader: Louise Pogue, Pianist: Julie Nash, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman. Worship 10:00-10:45am, our sharing in practice: giving thanks for ministry in 2011. Coffee time 10:45-11:00am, discussion groups on theology of sharing 11:00-11:45am, gathered time for questions and answers regarding proposed budget scenarios and 2011 financials 11:45-12:15pm.

Coming up:
Tues., Jan. 24 - MYF Bible study 7:00pm, location TBA.
    - Living Room meeting 1:00-2:30pm at the church.

Sat., Jan. 28 – The Sound of Scripture, a workshop at the church, 9:00am to 12 noon, led by John Epp, on practical tools for learning and proclaiming biblical stories with confidence. Not good at memorizing? Neither are we! Come and learn a more life giving way of learning and telling scripture by heart. No drama. No acting. Only a passion to see the power and beauty of the biblical story come alive. All are welcome, men, women, children, seniors and youth. You need to bring one biblical story you will learn. Cost $25 payable upon attendance.  For further details contact Pastor Pieter Niemeyer via email pieter@rvmc.ca for planning purposes please register by contacting the church office 905-294-6242. See posting in foyer.
These stories will be told in preparation for our worship service on Sun., Feb. 26/12.

Sat., Feb. 4 - Come dressed for dinner in your finest RED!  “ROYAL RED NIGHT” for your delight includes dinner. Please bring a red dessert to consume with tea.  Brought to you by R&R (Recreate & Re-Create Ministry) - keeping you on your royal toes.  Sign up by Jan 29, starting today.

Sun., Feb. 5– 2nd Sunday of our AGM. Worship 10:00-10:45am, Ushers: Susan Prestwich, Laurie Hadden, Simon Martin, Song Leader: Louise Pogue, Pianist: Julie Nash, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman. Worship 10:00-10:45am, listening to the call of God for 2012. Coffee time 10:45-11:00am, discussion groups on presentation from worship 11:00-11:45am, bag lunch 11:45am-12:30pm, gathered time for discerning vision and disbursements for ministry in 2012 12:30-2:00pm.

Community Events:
What? MYF Ministry Pizza lunch! 
When? January 22, 1:00 p.m.
Where? Wideman Mennonite Church.
Who can come? If you are connected with MYF in any way; youth, parents, Sponsors, or on any of the support committee's, or an interested person in MYF, you are welcome to come out.
Why? This will be a time to connect. Share stories, get updates and field any questions you may have.

Tues., Jan. 24 – Rouge Park: Sharing Ideas Information Session for Cedar Grove Community, 7:00 to 9:00pm at the Cedar Grove Community Centre, on 14th Avenue east of Reesor Rd. Topics covered will include: Bob Hunter Memorial Park, Rouge Park Trails Master Plan, Rouge Park Ambassador Program, Stewardship Activities, Guided Walks and Upcoming Events. For more information contact Michelle Holmes, Manager of Visitor Experience at or call 905-713-6021. See poster in foyer.

Notes
For other events happening within our community and out of town, see Announcement Sheet for Jan. 8 to Jan. 29/12.

Thank you for collecting your stamps over the Christmas season. Please keep collecting them during the year for the Bible Society and give them to Dorothy Reesor or put them in her mailbox. Leave a ¼” border around stamps when removing them from envelopes.

OUT OF THE COLD CLOTHING BANK:  Items requested:  t-shirts, undershirts, hoodies (most requested item), belts, jeans, warm parkas/jackets (preferred with hoods), fleece, running shoes & boots size 9 and up.  All these can be second hand, but must be clean and ready to use (e.g. no jackets with broken zippers). Because the guests usually wear 'layers', size large and extra large is requested.  Definitely no size small.  Scarves and tuques are not popular, as people prefer hoodies and ball caps. Unfortunately we get donations of old suits, long overcoats, out-of-style women's coats, boys' jackets and stained clothes.  No one wants these, so it's extra work to get rid of them. Bags of donations can be brought anytime, but please label "For OOTC". If there are any other items you wish to donate, please ask Lys Laurence before you bring them.

Markham/Stouffville area churches continue to search for a half time youth ministry pastor. Please consider prayerfully possible candidates. Applications can be made through MCEC, attention Muriel Bechtel. Or for more information contact Lois Bukar at Wideman Mennonite Church, 905-640-6219.

See MDS (Mennonite Disaster Service) update for January 12, 2012 on shelf in foyer.
 
Norma Barkey has moved to Brooklin. Here is her new contact information, 5909 Anderson St. Apt. 219, Brooklin, On L1M 2H1, 905-655-3682. Please change your church directories accordingly.

This is how your financial support of Mennonite Church Canada is ministering...from across the street to around the world!  Research by Mennonite Church Canada’s Task Force on Pastoral Leadership Development highlights the importance of pastors/leaders connecting with one another for encouragement, support and learning – and your dollars help make this happen. In late 2011, there was a bi-national gathering in Toronto of area church ministers and conference ministers from Mennonite Church Canada and Mennonite Church USA. Thank you for your commitment to growing and nurturing leaders!

Silver Lake Mennonite Camp – Registration is now open for summer 2012 with programming available for campers ages 6-16. Two all-inclusive “Family Camp” weekends are available for families wanting to experience camp together! 
Spaces are limited so be sure to register early.  For more information, please visit www.slmc.ca or contact Dave Erb – silverlake@slmc.ca or 519-422-1401.

Mennonite Central Committee Updates: A message from Rick Cober Bauman:
Attawapiskat does not want our pity. They want our partnership. On Jan. 11, MCC Ontario was invited to send volunteer trades people in small, short-term teams to hammer and lift alongside Attawapiskat workers, under the direction of Attawapiskat leaders. As they set up the modular homes – that are being sent in on the winter roads – these volunteers are going to learn more than most Canadians about the relationships between newcomers and the first people who welcomed us here. They will learn that the men and women and children of Attawapiskat are far more than "victims." Skills, humour, stories, wisdom are all integral parts of this community, but these strengths have been hard for us to see on the late news in recent weeks.
We are honoured to have been invited. We are honoured to be allowed to be bearers of God's love and compassion to our neighbours on the James Bay Coast.
Housing Partnership in Attawapiskat:
By invitation, MCC Ontario is sending small teams of skilled trades people for 2 week periods beginning February 1. Teams will work under local leadership in setting up modular homes and learning about the first peoples who welcomed us here. For more information, contact Lyndsay Mollins Koene (lyndsaymk@mennonitecc.on.ca, 705-264-2494) or visit mcco.ca/aboriginal
Volunteers will need to cover (or fund raise) all costs including travel and accommodations.  Please prayerfully consider this opportunity to share a practical message of love to our neighbours in Attawapiskat.

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Welcome to
Rouge Valley         
Mennonite Church
Worship Service 10:00 a.m.

January 8, 2012
My money temperature and needs and wants

Focus statement: God came into the world to bring life to all humankind. The light of God reveals God’s generosity to us through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. God’s generosity embraces us as the body of Christ who’s light shines through our rich diversity to our neighbour; both friend and foe.
Ushers: Susan Prestwich, Laurie Hadden, Simon Martin, Song Leader: Ellie Nash, Pianist: Elinor Hansen, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.

Prelude
Welcome & Ministries of the People
Call to Worship
Opening Prayer
Hymn HWB 218 As with gladness men of old
Hymn SS 32 Oh, beautiful star of Bethlehem
Share the Peace of Christ
Prayers of the People/Offering Prayer (Monitors)
Offertory
Children’s time “Take Good Care” (CD, vs. 1, 2, 3)
Child care
“Take Good Care” (CD, vs. 4, 5)
Scripture Reading: Matthew 2:1-12 (pg. 783 & 784 in Bibles)
Sermon Pastor Pieter Niemeyer
DVD Presentation (Monitors)
Hymn SJ 54 Longing for light
Blessing (Monitors)
Coffee Time & Discussions Groups


Let’s remember in our prayers:
This week please remember in your prayers Graeme, Lucy, Christina, Heather, Mia & Daniel Weston that they may witness to what God is doing in their lives.

Pray with the CPT Aboriginal Justice Team that the government of Canada and the non-indigenous peoples who live in this land would honor the treaties they have made with indigenous peoples.

CONGREGATIONAL CALENDAR
TODAY: Prayer/Potluck groups meet as follows:
* Durham lunch at the Weston's.
* Stouffville West to meet for lunch, at George & Anna Reesor’s.
* Stouffville East to meet for lunch at Mick & Mary Lymburner’s.
This week
Tues., Jan. 10 - Living Room meeting 1:00-2:30pm at the church.
           - MYF Bible study 7:00pm, location TBA.
           - Women’s Bible study meeting 7:00pm at the church.
          
Wed., Jan. 11 – Ministry Council meeting 7:00pm at the church.

Thurs., Jan. 12 – Congregational Care Elders meeting 9:30am at Trudy Burkholder’s.

Jan 14 at 700pm at the church, COME TO THE MASQUERADE!!  Dress up as your favourite Bible Character or as your own special self but keep your character secret! Ssshhhhhh!! Bring a dessert ready to serve. Beverages provided. Brought to you by R&R - be ready to have some fun!

Sun., Jan. 15 – Worship at 10:00am. Ushers: Susan Prestwich, Laurie Hadden, Simon Martin, Song Leader: Ellie Nash, Pianist: Nancy Burkholder, Worship Leaders: Pastor Pieter Niemeyer, Pastor Liz Brasier-Ackerman.
    -Long Term Visioning meeting in the Hospitality Room after the worship service. Please bring a sack lunch.
Coming up:
Tues., Jan. 17 - MYF Bible study 7:00pm, location TBA.

Wed., Jan. 18- Out of the Cold begins 3:00pm to 8:00am Thursday morning. This programs runs for 11 weeks until Wed., Mar. 28/12. See white binder in foyer to sign up to volunteer.

Our AGM (Annual General Meeting) will take place over two Sundays, Jan. 22 and Feb. 5. (Watch your bulletins for details)

Mark your calendars for WEAR YOUR RED! on Feb 4/12, An R&R event at the church.

Mark your calendars for our Annual Quilt Knotting Blitz, for Sat., Mar. 3/12.

Notes
For other events happening within our community and out of town, see Announcement Sheet for Jan. 8 to Jan. 29/12 in your church mailboxes.

Thank you for collecting your stamps over the Christmas season. Please keep collecting them during the year for the Bible Society and give them to Dorothy Reesor or put them in her mailbox. Leave a ¼” border around stamps when removing them from envelopes.

It's getting COLD Outside!!! That mean's it's time to start thinking about Out of the Cold and how you can help. RVMC will be hosting guests on Wednesday nights from January 18 to March 28, 2012. There are many ways to help from gathering clothing donations and preparing
meals to greeting and eating with the guests.  The volunteer white binder can be found near the mailboxes in the church foyer.
OUT OF THE COLD CLOTHING BANK:  Items requested:  t-shirts, undershirts, hoodies (most requested item), belts, jeans, warm parkas/jackets (preferred with hoods), fleece, running shoes & boots size 9 and up.  All these can be second hand, but must be clean and ready to use (e.g. no jackets with broken zippers). Because the guests usually wear 'layers', size large and extra large is requested.  Definitely no size small.  Scarves and tuques are not popular, as people prefer hoodies and ball caps. Unfortunately we get donations of old suits, long overcoats, out-of-style women's coats, boys' jackets and stained clothes.  No one wants these, so it's extra work to get rid of them. Bags of donations can be brought anytime, but please label "For OOTC". If there are any other items you wish to donate, please ask Lys Laurence before you bring them.

Treasurer's Report to the Congregation
Results through December 31st
 
Estimate
Total Year
Total Year
 for
Budget
Actual
 2011
2011
2010
 
General Fund Offerings
$217,065
$235,242
$203,486
 
Other Income
 53,280
39,500
46,420
 
Total Income
 $270,345
$274,742
$249,906
 
Less Distributions
 $276,475
$274,742
$258,804
 
Net Operating Surplus/(Deficit)
($6,130)
$0
($8,898)
 
The above schedule provides an overview (best estimate at this point in time) of our Revenue and Distributions for 2011. I have shown our Budget and last year's numbers for comparison. The amounts have been prepared before Distributions for the month of December have been finalized. You will note that we did not meet our General Fund Offering budget for 2011. We are $18,177 short. However we will not show an $18,177 operating deficit as favourable Other Income and Distribution variances versus our budget will result in our showing an operating deficit for the year of approximately $6,100.