MINUTES BOARD OF EDUCATION Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska January 20, 2015 Present: Andrea Wall, Brad Janzen, Royce Janzen, Becky Buller, Connie Betchel, Kori Lewis, Erin Sams Connie opened the meeting with devotions and prayer Minutes Reviewed: No changes needed. Treasurer’s Report: Reviewed 2014 total budget with reviewed discussion on DVBS adjusted budget for 2015. DVBS appreciation meal will be listed separately from materials. Board Reorganization: Discussion began for organization of officers for the 2015 year as follows: Chair: currently open (Discussion was held on the role and responsibilities of the chair) Secretary: Bev Quiring Treasurer: Becky Buller 2015 Church Priorities: At the request of the Board of Deacons the Board of Education reviewed the upcoming priorities for 2015 and answered the following questions:

a. What priorities will the Board of Education participate in? b. Who/what other boards and committees will the Board of Education collaborate with in the

move forward on the chosen priorities? *This information will be reported to the Board of Deacons by the Chair (Brad Janzen) and the Church Council Representative (Royce Janzen) at this year’s Annual Deacon Retreat. After review and discussion of priorities and the mission of the Board of Education, the following were chosen as priorities for the board:

a. Priority #2: The Board of Education will seek to collaborate with Church Council and other boards to cultivate a transparent accountable leadership pattern throughout the congregational organization by coordinating a listing of committee and board calendars online for easy access and reference; by taking a more active role in providing support to and equipping members serving on and under the Board of Education.

b. Priority #3: The Board of Education will collaborate with the Board of Outreach and Service to develop an awareness of needs in the church and community and become active in outreach as a congregation by continuing to provide and develop preschool services; daycare/after school options; backpack program; and elective classes.

Daycare Update: Continued discussion on possibility of providing after school programing in the fall of 2105; there are still details to be worked out and explored in the development process. Kori will continue work on information gathering for future developing discussion. Bethesda Bible Series: Michele Hersberger will be presenting January 23, 25, 2015. Board members are asked to help with refreshments at break time on Friday. Brad closed the meeting in prayer. The next meeting will be held February 17, 2015.

MINUTES BOARD OF EDUCATION Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska February 17, 2015 Present: Andrea Wall, Brad Janzen, Royce Janzen, Kori Lewis, Tammy Ott, Connie Bechtel, Erin Sams Absent: Becky Buller, Lavonne Braun, Bev Quiring, Gina Mestl Devotions were shared by Connie Bechtel. Minutes Reviewed: No changes needed. Treasurer’s Report: Reviewed the report. No additional discussion. Reorganize: Becky Buller– Chair Brad Janzen– Vice Chair Bev Quiring – Secretary Still Open TBD next Month – Treasurer Preschool Committee: Board of Education needs to appoint a committee member to the Preschool Committee following the resignation of Larry Roberts from the committee. Larry will continue to volunteer with the Preschool. Brad and Kori will be making two contacts. Devotion schedule was handed out for us to sign up for the year. Child Development Center Update: The feedback from annual meeting was very positive. We are continuing to move forward answering questions and discerning directions.

1. Brad, Kori and Connie will be meeting at Heartland Community Schools with Behavioral Health Dept. Rep. Jan Friesen, Marcia Ough and Mr. Brad Best to brainstorm ideas, gather resources, look at funding options.

2. Relationship between Child Development Center and Preschool needs to be discussed further.

3. Received validation from an area child development center (been open around five years) that was started from the ground up. It took five years to develop the center. Kori’s contact is open to giving counsel.

4. Kori will be developing a cash flow statement to help determine feasibility of the center. 5. Discussed interested volunteers. 6. Continuing conversation with Fire Marshal. Fire doors need to be at the top of both sets

of stairways. On the north stairwell, we can put fire safe doors in the upstairs bathroom and additional fire doors as you enter the hallway with doors swinging towards the stairwell.

7. Licensing: We are able to use the classrooms for Sunday school and Wednesday night programing as long as we do not breaking licensing expectations.

8. Discussed communication with the congregation: Once we have bids, a proposal, and cash flow information then we can meet with the congregation for further conversation.

9. Discussed how to involve other churches and community members. We discussed having a committee that involves community members beyond Bethesda. How do we have ownership in the community to meet the need? Idea was suggested to meet with the Henderson Ministerial Association to discuss the interest of area churches in the project.

Review Bethesda Bible Series (BBS): We felt that the Michelle Hershberger event was very positive. Liked the booklet, liked the banner, loved her topic, loved the bookmark, appreciated Matt Buller printing the banner last minute, liked the potluck in conjunction with the event, the youth event went well and turned into a lunch date with Michelle and Bethany, liked sitting at tables for the sessions. Only suggestions were to be aware of where speaker is standing. Planning for BBS 2016: We discussed possible ideas for next year:

1. Since our priority is to listen deeply, what if we had an opportunity to listen and talk about topics that aren’t being discussed currently at Bethesda. Using a Ted Talk format we could invite people who would like to share on a topic they are passionate about or recommend someone they would like to hear about. We will need to review submissions and consider parameters for the talks. This would happen in a cluster format on one weekend. Encourage it to be on a potluck Sunday.

2. Consider inviting Dave Miller Associate Professor for Missional Leadership Development at AMBS.

3. Greg Boyd 4. Meghan Good

The next meeting will be Tuesday, March 17, 2015 at 8:00 p.m.

MINUTES BOARD OF EDUCATION Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska March 17, 2015 Present: Andrea Wall, Brad Janzen, Royce Janzen, Becky Buller, Lavonne Braun, Tammy Ott, Gina Mestl Absent: Connie Bechtel, Bev Quiring, Erin Sams Devotions were shared by Andrea Wall. Minutes Reviewed: No changes needed. Treasurer’s Report: Reviewed the report. No additional discussion. Reorganize: Tammy Ott (Justin) has agreed to be Treasurer. Brad Janzen is contacting Brent Swartzendruber to see if he is still Library Representative and Chris Buller to see if he is still the Peace Representative. New Business:

a. Policy Evaluation-no Changes. Discussed options for meeting night besides Tuesday but generally Tuesday nights seemed to be best for everyone.

b. Board of Education Mission Statement was affirmed. c. Collect Areas of Worship sheets from Committee Members: The forms that are online

need to be changed. Changes are written in the Board Chair binder. d. Review VBS Curriculum: Erin Sams and Andrea Wall are using the MennoLens to

evaluate the curriculum and will bring it back to the board next month. The curriculum they are reviewing is called “Hometown Nazareth.”

e. Review Yearly Duties and Delegate Responsibilities: This no longer happens. Old Business:

a. Child Care Center Update a. The cost of the project is looking to cost around $190,000. b. We need to hire an architect, which would be roughly $5,000. c. Some of the suggestions given by Board members were to take a proposal to

the Church Council, go to the church and ask for a vote. d. It was decided that Andrea will ask Sherm to meet with Brad and Kori to

advise on how to approach the congregation with the child care center information.

e. Next Steps: i. The Church Council Representative to the Board of Education,

Pastoral Staff, Board of Business, Brad, and Kori should meet so we are all on the same page.

ii. Brad and Kori’s responsibility will be to get as much information together and give a presentation to the church for approval.

iii. Brad and Kori will take the presentation to the Henderson Ministerial Council so we can have all churches on board with the childcare

center. iv. Ask for money to hire an architect if church approval for the childcare

center is given. f. Discussion also included passing out Pledge Sheets throughout the

Community to help fund the project.

b. Bethesda Bible Series 2016 a. Ted Talks are people with great ideas who then present their ideas to a group.

The Ted Talks started in California and now Ted Ex Talks are talks in other states. Speaking times vary depending on the presenter.

b. Erin has a good list of people that could speak for different Ted Talks but would like more time to make more arrangements. Andrea will talk to Erin about bringing more information to the April meeting.

c. All Board of Education members should think of people who may have faith stories from the community that may want to share.

d. Andrea is going to check with Erin to see if she could come for ½ hour to present the BBS idea at the April meeting.

c. On a side note-Andrea mentioned that during the Leadership Retreat there was a conversation that the Board of Education and several other boards should meet for a joint conversation about goal #4. Andrea will see if the other groups want to meet for a brief time during the next meeting in April. Andrea and Becky will work together to make the agenda.

The next meeting will be Tuesday, April 21, 2015. Kori Lewis, Secretary Pro Tem

MINUTES BOARD OF EDUCATION Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska March 17, 2015 Present: Andrea Wall, Brad Janzen, Royce Janzen, Becky Buller, Lavonne Braun, Tammy Ott, Gina Mestl Absent: Connie Bechtel, Bev Quiring, Erin Sams Devotions were shared by Andrea Wall. Minutes Reviewed: No changes needed. Treasurer’s Report: Reviewed the report. No additional discussion. Reorganize: Tammy Ott (Justin) has agreed to be Treasurer. Brad Janzen is contacting Brent Swartzendruber to see if he is still Library Representative and Chris Buller to see if he is still the Peace Representative. New Business:

a. Policy Evaluation-no Changes. Discussed options for meeting night besides Tuesday but generally Tuesday nights seemed to be best for everyone.

b. Board of Education Mission Statement was affirmed. c. Collect Areas of Worship sheets from Committee Members: The forms that are online

need to be changed. Changes are written in the Board Chair binder. d. Review VBS Curriculum: Erin Sams and Andrea Wall are using the MennoLens to

evaluate the curriculum and will bring it back to the board next month. The curriculum they are reviewing is called “Hometown Nazareth.”

e. Review Yearly Duties and Delegate Responsibilities: This no longer happens. Old Business:

a. Child Care Center Update a. The cost of the project is looking to cost around $190,000. b. We need to hire an architect, which would be roughly $5,000. c. Some of the suggestions given by Board members were to take a proposal to

the Church Council, go to the church and ask for a vote. d. It was decided that Andrea will ask Sherm to meet with Brad and Kori to

advise on how to approach the congregation with the child care center information.

e. Next Steps: i. The Church Council Representative to the Board of Education,

Pastoral Staff, Board of Business, Brad, and Kori should meet so we are all on the same page.

ii. Brad and Kori’s responsibility will be to get as much information together and give a presentation to the church for approval.

iii. Brad and Kori will take the presentation to the Henderson Ministerial Council so we can have all churches on board with the childcare

center. iv. Ask for money to hire an architect if church approval for the childcare

center is given. f. Discussion also included passing out Pledge Sheets throughout the

Community to help fund the project.

b. Bethesda Bible Series 2016 a. Ted Talks are people with great ideas who then present their ideas to a group.

The Ted Talks started in California and now Ted Ex Talks are talks in other states. Speaking times vary depending on the presenter.

b. Erin has a good list of people that could speak for different Ted Talks but would like more time to make more arrangements. Andrea will talk to Erin about bringing more information to the April meeting.

c. All Board of Education members should think of people who may have faith stories from the community that may want to share.

d. Andrea is going to check with Erin to see if she could come for ½ hour to present the BBS idea at the April meeting.

c. On a side note-Andrea mentioned that during the Leadership Retreat there was a conversation that the Board of Education and several other boards should meet for a joint conversation about goal #4. Andrea will see if the other groups want to meet for a brief time during the next meeting in April. Andrea and Becky will work together to make the agenda.

The next meeting will be Tuesday, April 21, 2015. Kori Lewis, Secretary Pro Tem

MINUTES BOARD OF EDUCATION Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska April 21, 2015 “To Facilitate the Christian Education of Children, Youth, and Adults that is consistent with the Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective of the Bible” Present: Brad Janzen, Pastor Andrea Wall, Erin Sams, Bev Quiring, Lavonne Braun, Kori Lewis, Gina Mestl, Connie Bechtel, Becky Buller. Absent: Tammy Ott, Royce Janzen 1. Devotions : Brad read a Poem by Brian Zahnd, “O To Be Open” and then opened the meeting with

prayer. 2. Secretary’s Report: No changes, but Brad reported that Brent Swartzendruber is still Library

Representative. Brad is still waiting to hear back from Chris Buller regarding if he is still Peace Committee Representative.

3. Treasurer’s Report: No changes. 4. New Business:

a. High School Graduation Breakfast: Will be held Sunday, May 10, 2015, at 8 a.m. in Fellowship Hall. Nine students from Bethesda are graduating this year. Board of Education will host a breakfast for the graduates and their families. Becky will mail out invitations and Lavonne will be the RSVP contact. Breakfast Casserole – Lavonne, Bev and Connie will prepare the casseroles at the church on the 9th at 2:00 pm. Muffins/Pastries/Breads – Brad, Lavonne, Kori, Becky and Andrea Juice – Royce Janzen Decorations – Tammy Ott

b. VBS Curriculum: Vacation Bible School will be held June 1-5, 2015. Erin reported that the Menno Lens review has been completed. Curriculum being used is “Hometown Nazareth: Jesus as a Kid.” Storyteller in this series is Mary, talking about her son, Jesus. This is a gospel-based curriculum. The committee will be rewriting the role of Mary’s neighbor to make the character friendlier. All volunteer VBS positions have been filled. All Bible School Committee positions are filled this year.

c. Bethesda Bible Series 2016: Erin shared a five minute TED Talk video for the Board so

members could get a better idea of the premise behind TED Talks. TED stands for Technology, Education and Design. The concept behind TED talks is about sharing ideas in a narrative form. These talks would foster conversations and open up pathways of

opportunity for church members. Several individuals have expressed interest in presenting as well as ideas for TED Talks. We want to open up, not only to Bethesda, but the local community and beyond. Erin shared a bridge building proposal that would help the congregation develop skills to learn to listen as well as speak in preparation for TED Talks. We would need to work out a timeline to schedule the bridge building activities. Lavonne asked if there is any type of approval process that needs to be followed for the bridge building and TED Talks. Erin suggested potential participants present proposals. Andrea recommended the proposals be reviewed by a predetermined committee, to include Andrea and Pastor Jim. Brad thought that Board of Education would be the committee to review the proposals as the Board is responsible for approving curriculum. There was lengthy discussion and suggestions on how to proceed with the bridge building and TED Talks in preparation for the BMC Talks for the 2016 Bethesda Bible Series. The Board does want to proceed with TED Talks for the 2016 Bethesda Bible Series and will discuss a date for the 2016 Series at the June meeting. Erin recommended that the Board, at the May meeting, talk about small group leaders, set up small groups, and talk about the topics to be discussed each month. Andrea shared that Deacons have been talking about opening conversations about what it means to be missional. A possible resource out of AMBS is David Miller, Associate Professor of Missional Leadership Development. We could possibly invite him to speak to help resource the congregation on how to be missional and reach out to our neighbors. This might fit into the TED Talks/BMC Talks.

5. Old Business a. Daycare/After School Program Update: Brad contacted Susan Buffett’s Sherwood

Foundation about possible funding for the daycare/after school program. Brad received an e-mail from the foundation that sounded positive. The foundation is going to send a representative out in May.

b. Circle of Grace Curriculum: Tabled for discussion at a future meeting.

6. Brad closed the meeting with prayer. Next meeting will be Tuesday, May 19, 2015 at 8:00 pm. Becky Buller, Chairman Bev Quiring, Secretary

MINUTES BOARD OF EDUCATION Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska May 19, 2015 “To Facilitate the Christian Education of Children, Youth, and Adults that is consistent with the Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective of the Bible” Present: Becky Buller, Brad Janzen, Royce Janzen, Kori Lewis, Tammy Ott, Connie Bechtel, Bev Quiring, Erin Sams, Gina Mestl, Pastor Andrea Wall Absent: Lavonne Braun 1. Devotions: Kori Lewis shared the devotion, “Thoughts on Rain,” then opened with prayer. 2. Secretary’s Report: Approved with no changes. 3. Treasurer’s Report: Approved with no changes. 4. New Business:

a. High School Graduation Breakfast was well attended. Becky thanked everyone for their help in preparing and serving the breakfast.

b. Erin reported that the Bible School Committee had a meeting with the VBS teachers on Sunday, May 17, 2015, and everything is ready to go. Erin asked what the budget is for the teacher appreciation meal, Pastor Andrea clarified the budget for teacher appreciation meal is $425.

c. The Preschool Committee submitted their recommendation for Kori Lewis’ Salary. Kori Lewis left the meeting while the Board of Education discussed the recommendation. Becky Buller made a motion to approve the recommendation. Erin Sams seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.

d. The Advent Devotional was discussed as far as if we should continue with this project. Bev shared that when she and Lavonne worked on the devotional for 2014 it was difficult to find enough people willing to submit a devotional and that some people did end up writing two devotions to help fill the book. It was discussed that it may be time to end the devotional due to not being able to find people to write devotions. Becky stated Goshen College does an online Advent Devotional and perhaps we can put that in the bulletin and suggest members use that devotional for Advent. For those without internet access, perhaps we can print the devotion. Pastor Andrea suggested we ask the office first to see if they are willing to print the devotion before committing to do this. Becky stated we would need to follow up and see if Goshen or another Mennonite college is going to do a devotional. Pastor Andrea stated another idea would be for the Worship Planning Team to list scripture in the bulletin each week that could be read for Advent.

Brad stated we should announce to the congregation that Board of Education may be ending the devotional project and see if there is another group or committee that wants to take on the project. It was agreed after further discussion that Board of Education will not do an Advent Devotional this year. If there is another person, group or committee that wants to pick up the project, Board of Education budget for the devotional could be extended to whomever takes on the project.

e. Erin reported on the Midweek program. She stated the Midweek Committee is again using the Mission:Possible curriculum. This curriculum has a three year rotation, and they will be starting the third year of the curriculum in fall 2015. Each semester is 12 weeks long. They will do a service project at the end of each semester. Erin clarified the Midweek Committee currently works with K-6. Pastor Andrea works with the Jr. High and High School and will be meeting with those groups to plan for the coming year.

f. Discussion for TED Talks dates was tabled until the June meeting as we need to coordinate with the 2015-2016 Heartland school calendar and that calendar won’t be available until June.

5. Old Business: a. Daycare/After School Program Update – Brad and Kori are meeting with Matt from the

Sherwood Foundation on May 20, 2015. The Sherwood Foundation is part of the Susan Buffett Foundation. The meeting is to discuss possible grants and/or other resources to assist with the proposed program. Brad stated Matt wants to know about the community and people. There has been discussion with Pastor Sherm as how to proceed with a proposal for the boards in June. Pastor Sherm said it is important to have agreement between the boards on the proposed program before presenting to the congregation. Pastor Andrea explained how Pastor Sherm discussed the importance of bringing the proposal to the church leadership so it becomes Bethesda’s proposal. We need to build ownership so it becomes the church’s ministry. Pastor Andrea stated we would need to create the proposal and then we can take it to Pastor Sherm for review before presenting to the boards. Gina Mestl shared, as one of our previous preschool teachers, that she too believes that the boards all need to be in agreement on the proposal to show that it is supported. Pastor Andrea suggested we as Board of Education members pay attention to the questions that are being brought up around us so we can put those in the proposal/Q&A document.

b. Pastor Andrea shared that Dove’s Nest, the organization that encouraged the creation of the Child Protection Plan, also encourages using the Circle of Grace Curriculum each year to talk with children regarding their circle, who is in their circle, who is safe, etc. The curriculum provides information for the various age levels. Erin suggested we finalize the Child Protection Plan before implementing the curriculum. Erin stated we need to get the Child Protection Plan functioning better. Erin suggested getting the original Ad Hoc Committee that created the plan back together to discuss how to make the plan functional. MB Church has created a plan and it was suggested that we look at their plan. Pastor Andrea will visit at Church Council about a collaboration to bring this back to the board. Lengthy discussion was held regarding the policy and the need to proceed with finalizing and implementing.

c. Missional Speaker – David Miller: Pastor Andrea stated the Idea of having a Missional

Speaker started with the Deacons as a way to continue to have resourcing events and that either the Board of Education or the Deacons can look at incorporating this idea. Becky recommended letting the Deacons proceed with this and if they want to present something to the Board of Education then we could go forward. Pastor Andrea thought this could dovetail with the TED Talks.

d. Bethesda Bible Series - Erin reported that she talked with Pastor Andrea, and the ministry

team is on board with collaborating and being part of the cycle discussed at the Board of Education in April that would lead up to Bethesda Bible Series. Pastor Andrea and Erin are going to meet and come up with a timeline. Pastor Andrea spoke about how we could dovetail summer worship into the second section of the cycle. Erin shared her ideas of possible topics to discuss in the small groups and places to go for a couple of trips as part of the process. She asked board members to think of other topics and places to go and to share them at the June meeting.

Erin said some people are looking at their Sunday school classes as their small groups, so we would keep those groups but also add groups for people that don’t have a Sunday school class.

Erin stated we need to talk about the submission process for ideas, timeline for submitting ideas, what things are not acceptable, is there a group outside of the Board of Education that we need to go through to get approval, how do we bring in submissions, how and when do we contact people, what is the balance between outside speakers and speakers within the congregation, what does the schedule look like, how many spots will there be to fill. Royce didn’t think Church Council or the Deacons have to be involved, it can be the Board of Education alone.

Becky stated if we want this to be a long term project in our church, then we probably do need to include Deacons, Church Council, Board of Business, as well as the Board of Education. Erin shared she foresees the small groups would only go through TED talks, this would not be long term. Brad shared that we probably don’t want to tie the different sections too closely to each other or individuals may think if they don’t participate in all sections that they won’t be able to follow the Bethesda Bible Series so they won’t attend.

6. Closing – Kori closed with prayer. a. Next meeting is June 16, 2015, with devotions by Becky Buller. b. Royce announced that Sunday, June 14 there will be a meeting for members of all boards

to discuss the proposed child care center. Time to be announced. Becky Buller, Chair Bev Quiring, Secretary

MINUTES BOARD OF EDUCATION Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska June 16, 2015 @ 8:00 p.m.

“To Facilitate the Christian Education of Children, Youth, and Adults that is consistent with the Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective of the Bible”

Present: Royce Janzen, Kori Lewis, Bev Quiring, Becky Buller, Lavonne Braun, Brad Janzen, Connie Bechtel, Pastor Andrea Wall, Erin Sams Absent: Tammy Ott, Gina Mestl 1. Devotions: Becky Buller shared “A Prayer” by Joy Cowley, and then shared Stanley Green’s adaptation

of that prayer. 2. Secretary’s Report: Approved with no changes. 3. Treasurer’s Report: Approved with no changes. Tammy reported to Becky prior to the meeting that

she signed a blanket authorization to pay for Vacation Bible School expenses. 4. New Business:

a. Meeting with Boards regarding Child Development Center possibilities:

Brad reported that the meeting went well, feedback was good overall. The biggest concerns were getting community support to include financing and finding teachers. Erin asked what the qualifications would be for teachers. Kori said there are different levels of education required, those with associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees as well as those who are high school graduates with college hours. Erin asked if there would be help with getting college hours for individuals with only the high school degree or who are working towards a degree. Kori reported they are hoping the Sherwood Foundation can help with scholarships. Kori has the training to be able to train staff as well. Erin asked if there would be different levels of earnings based on level of education. Brad and Kori said that would be taken into consideration. Erin also questioned if we would be able to find staff based on the low unemployment rate in the area and what staff ratio is being looked at for qualified teachers versus teachers with less qualifications. This will also be taken into consideration.

Royce asked if the board will be the same as Board of Preschool. Kori thinks probably not, she hopes some would stay, but some may see the Child Development Center as a larger commitment. Pastor Andrea asked, as a question for thought, what would be the Board of Education’s ideal way of functioning with the Board of the Child Development Center. There needs to be some type of relationship. The next step is to get plans drawn up by architect. Church Council may be looking into paying for this. Brad wants to discuss this with Steve Michel after Church Council next week. It was recommended that when the architect comes to look at the church that a member of the Board of Business be there to discuss any proposed changes that need to be made. Pastor Andrea shared she left the meeting on Sunday wondering how we bring all the Boards in to be a part of this process. Brad again said the first steps are finding the architect and finding out the cost for an architect. Want to have plans to present to the boards. Pastor Andrea suggested if it would be a good idea to update the congregation on what is happening by putting something in the bulletin regarding the meeting and the next steps being taken leading up to a congregational conversation.

b. Dates for TED Talks: Lavonne reviewed the school calendar, Saturday, January 30, 2016 is open, Friday, January 29, 2016, is the junior high vocal clinic so we would only have Saturday and Sunday. Saturday, February 13, 2016, is also open. Otherwise, the other weekends have events scheduled. Erin said the Sunday School Committee thinking about a marriage seminar on the weekend of February 13, 2016. It was decided to plan on the weekend of January 30, 2016, for the TED Talks. Lavonne recommended contacting the church office, Chamber of Commerce, school and hospital to let them know we are planning this event. Becky stated she would make those contacts. Erin said we should probably call this Bethesda Bible Series as there could be a cost associated with use the name TED Talks.

c. Vacation Bible School: Erin reported VBS went well, with only a few minor issues. The revisions to the curriculum worked well. The VBS committee is thinking about not ordering t-shirts for the children next year, just ordering for the teachers and helpers. The committee doesn’t think this will be a major issue. T-shirts would still be ordered for teachers and helpers so children know who the safe people are. The VBS Committee discussed whether the VBS Committee should break up students into classrooms or the teachers. The VBS Committee decided to let teachers keep organizing the students into classrooms. Still had issues with registrations not getting turned in on time, but students were welcomed even if they had not registered by the due date.

The Committee started looking at next year’s VBS curriculum, looking at Joseph, from Prison to Prince. The Committee talked about ordering material now for next year so there is time to complete the Menno Lens, see what modifications need to be made, and come up with activities. Extra time to go through the curriculum would be helpful. Board of Education approved going ahead and ordering the curriculum for next year.

d. Fall Midweek Plans: Erin reported that this fall they will be starting the third year of the curriculum’s three year rotation. Erin will go through all the lessons for the semester to gather materials. The committee will meet to go through curriculum to adjust the activities. Erin proposed starting Midweek earlier this fall.

e. Appoint Board representative to August Church Council meeting regarding Child Protection Plan implementation: Becky received an e-mail from Steve Michel, Chair of Church Council. Church Council wants someone from each of the Boards to come to the August Church Council meeting. Council has been trying to figure out how to put the Child Protection Plan in policy. Implementation of the plan been difficult. Church Council is wanting to pull the different Boards together so the Boards are aware of the plan, their part in implementing the plan and how to address complexities of the plan and questions that may arise. Brad Janzen volunteered to be the representative from Board of Education.

5. Old Business: a. Circle of Grace Curriculum – Tabled for future discussion. b. Missional speaker—David Miller? Tabled for future discussion. c. BBS 2016 Erin Sams Report – Erin reported there is a meeting June 17, 2015 regarding

this. She’ll have more to report at July meeting.

6. Closing – Pastor Andrea closed in prayer. a. Next meeting is July 21, 2015 at 8:00 p.m. b. Devotions in July by Lavonne Braun.

Becky Buller, Chair Bev Quiring, Secretary

MINUTES BOARD OF EDUCATION Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska July 21, 2015

“To Facilitate the Christian Education of Children, Youth, and Adults that is consistent with the Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective of the Bible”

Present: Becky Buller, Lavonne Braun, Connie Bechtel, Bev Quiring, Brad Janzen Absent: Kori Lewis, Royce Janzen, Pastor Andrea Wall, Erin Sams, Tammy Ott, Gina Mestl 1. Devotions: Lavonne shared a reading – “I Asked….” 2. Secretary’s Report: Approved with no changes. 3. Treasurer’s Report: Approved with no changes. 4. New Business:

a. Review Child Development Center Possibilities – Brad reported that he talked with the Board of Business about hiring an architect. Brad said the Board of Business is looking at doing church improvements that would require an architect so the thought is to use the same architect for those plans and the Child Development Center. The company they are looking at has experience working with churches. The Child Development Center Committee has tentatively scheduled a congregational meeting for September 20, 2015 to discuss the proposed Child Development Center.

b. Update on Fall Midweek Plans – Connie reported that plans were completed for Midweek and most of the teachers have been lined up.

c. Connie gave an update on summer worship and Sunday school. We will be studying the Beatitudes. Following worship, the large group will be break apart into small groups for the Sunday school hour. The children will be having Sunday school separate from the adults, but will also be studying the Beatitudes. It is hoped that the small group activity following worship will lead some of the small groups to stay together and continue on in a Sunday school class in the fall.

d. Connie reported that a winter elective class will start Valentine’s Day weekend in February 2016. The Sunday School Committee is discussing options for day and time to be able to open it up to more people. Connie said more information would be available at the August meeting.

5. Old Business:

a. Circle of Grace Curriculum – tabled for future discussion.

b. BBS 2016 Erin Sams Report – Erin was absent so there was no report, however, Becky reported that January 30 and 31, 2016, are reserved on the church calendar for the Bethesda Bible Series.

c. Appoint board representative to August Church Council meeting regarding Child Protection Plan implementation - Brad Janzen is the representative.

6. Items for Future Discussion:

a. Sunday School Committee Volunteers

b. Invite Shana Boshart to speak on Faith Formation

c. Child Protection Plan To Do List

d. Missional Speaker—David Miller

e. Teacher Appreciation Meal

Next meeting is August 18, 2015, at 8:00 p.m.

Becky Buller, Chairman Bev Quiring, Secretary

MINUTES BOARD OF EDUCATION Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska August 18, 2015

“To Facilitate the Christian education of children, youth, and adults that is consistent with the Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective of the Bible”

Present: Becky Buller, Connie Bechtel, Brad Janzen, Kori Lewis, Tammy Ott, Pastor Andrea Wall, Lavonne Braun Absent: Jennifer Buller, Royce Janzen, Gina Mestl, Bev Quiring, Erin Sams

1. Devotions: Lavonne shared a reading “ I Asked…” 2. Secretary’s Report: Approved with no changes. 3. Treasurer’s Report: We approved taking the Adult Bible study material from Central Plains

Conference out of the midweek material budget. 4. New Business:

a. Teacher Appreciation Meal will be held Sunday, September 13. Connie has the menu planned: smoked pork loin, potato salad, fruit salad, bread (Becky and Lavonne will each bring two loaves), ice cream sundaes. Board of Education members are asked to come right after church to help set up.

b. Connie gave an update on summer Sunday school. Kids have enjoyed Sunday school and teachers have appreciated the time off and being able to participate in the adult discussion hour. Conversations have been good and the intergenerational dialog has been enjoyed by all. The round tables have made for a pleasant atmosphere. They would like feedback and asked that each board member try to ask five people what they thought of summer Sunday school.

c. We reviewed the minutes from the Facility Task Group. d. We responded to the Church Council questions.

i. Question 1: There is a need for a center. We have the facility and it could be used as a gift to the community. We need to keep this as a community supported ministry.

ii. Question 2: Affirmation for support the child care center. Questions will be addressed. Have discussion groups at tables with questions being recorded. Finances, how can we make the community involved? What about theological differences.

iii. Question 3: Nothing - we are ready to move forward with the architect. iv. Question 4: Board of Education affirms having a firm look at both the child Care

Center and the facility needs. We affirmed and discussed items 5-6-11-13-15. v. Question 5: Hearing aid coils in the floor in certain locations of the sanctuary.

5. Old Business: a. BBS 2016: Erin has not had time to do a submission outline. She is asking for a person to

help her. Kori Lewis volunteered. b. Midweek has all teachers in place.

6. Future Items:

a. Pastor Andrea has received the Circle of Grace Curriculum and will give a copy to the representatives for the Child Protection Plan.

b. Pastor Andrea updated us on the pastor and deacons responsibilities while Pastor Jim is on sabbatical.

The next meeting will be September 15, 2015, at 8:00 p.m. Becky Buller, Chairman Lavonne Braun, Secretary Pro Tem

MINUTES BOARD OF EDUCATION Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska September 15, 2015

“To Facilitate the Christian Education of Children, Youth, and Adults that is consistent with the Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective of the Bible”

Present: Becky Buller, Bev Quiring, Gina Mestl, Tammy Ott, Connie Bechtel, Kori Lewis, Pastor Andrea Wall. Absent: Brad Janzen, Lavonne Braun, Erin Sams, Royce Janzen

1. Devotions: Bev shared a story from The Butterfly Effect by Andy Andrews.

2. Secretary’s Report: Reviewed, no changes.

3. Treasurer’s Report: Reviewed, no changes.

4. New Business: a. Facility Needs – Reviewed the Potential Facility Needs list, as requested by the Church Council, and ranked the items, 1 to 5, in order of priority to complete. The Board of Education recommended the following:

1. Asbestos removal and renovations for licensing, fire safety for Child Development Center, sound improvements in sanctuary, security cameras, explore options for how to worship in a space designed for 1000 people, office renovations, audio/visual in sanctuary/ fellowship hall and storage solutions. 2. Changing door frames to allow exits to be self-closing, sanctuary upgrades, creating more space between the front pews, improving sanctuary lighting, replace carpet in the sanctuary, central network for offices. 3. Gathering area/welcoming center/mailboxes/communication center and finding space outside of Fellowship Hall for Sunday school classes. 4. Parking lot renovations. 5. Air conditioning in sanctuary, covered entrance, better utilization of patio space, choir loft upgrades

b. Child Development Center – The general consensus of the Board of Education members that attended the meeting on Sunday, September 13, 2015, was that the meeting and conversations at individual tables were positive. Next step will be the congregational vote to determine if we proceed with the Child Development Center.

c. Summer Worship/Sunday School – Connie reported the children’s activities went well. Pastor Andrea reported that she, Erin and Pastor Seth will be doing a follow-up review of the youth/adult side of summer worship.

d. Teacher Appreciation Meal – Great turnout of teachers and their families. Thanks to Connie and Bryan Bechtel for organizing the meal and preparing the meat. Thanks to all Board of

Education members for their contributions of food, helping serve the meal, and clean up afterwards.

5. Old Business: a. BBS 2016 - Erin has been working on Bethesda Bible Series. “Communities Caring for All God’s People” is the suggested theme. As Erin was absent, Becky read through Erin’s proposed plan for the process of preparing for the event and items Erin has already taken care of, or is working on. It appears Erin is working on lining up featured speakers Nate Stuckey and Elizabeth Troyer-Miller. If additional help is needed, Erin is encouraged to ask the board. Pastor Andrea advised approval for proposed speakers/featured speakers would be by the pastoral team and Board of Deacons. Kori is going to help Erin review the speaker submission forms and then they will go to pastoral team/deacons for final say. Erin submitted a question about the budget for BBS as there was some money already spent. BBS 2016 will be funded by the 2016 budget as well as the remaining funds in the 2015 budget for any costs incurred in 2015 for the 2016 series. The funds already used out of the 2015 budget were for the 2015 Bethesda Bible Series. Meal at BBS - In the past, the meal has been at no cost to the Board of Education because it was a fund raiser for the youth. This could be an option and Erin is encouraged to visit with Lavonne Braun.

b. Fall Midweek – Started September 2, 2015. Erin submitted a question about the Child Protection Policy. Pastor Andrea reported she is waiting on boards to name representatives for the Child Protection Committee. Pastor Andrea reported when those individuals are named, she will facilitate the Child Protection implementation meeting this fall.

6. Closing: Bev closed with prayer. Items for Future Discussion: 1. Sunday School Committee Volunteers 2. Invite Shana Boshart to speak on Faith Formation 3. Child Protection Plan To Do List 4. Circle of Grace Curriculum The next meeting will be held Tuesday, October 20, 2015, at 8:00 p.m. Becky Buller, Chairman Bev Quiring, Secretary

MINUTES BOARD OF EDUCATION Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska October 20, 2015

“To Facilitate the Christian Education of Children, Youth, and Adults that is consistent with the Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective of the Bible”

Present: Becky Buller, Royce Janzen, Bev Quiring, Gina Mestl, Brad Janzen, Pastor Andrea Wall, Erin Sams Absent: Connie Bechtel, Tammy Ott, Lavonne Braun, Kori Lewis 1. Devotions – Becky shared devotions from Psalms 1 and 8 and opened with prayer. 2. Secretary’s Report – No changes. 3. Treasurer’s Report – No changes. 4. New Business

a. Budget Worksheets – Cathy Wismer will provide the budgets for the November Education Board meeting for committees under the Education Board.

b. Child Protection Plan – Recommendations of individuals to be part of the Leadership Team were discussed. Ideally we would have a team of 2-3 people. The Leadership team would be responsible for reviewing the Child Protection Plan, incident reports, assisting pastors, checking sex offender registry monthly, responsible to be aware of how to report child abuse and train others to do so, paperwork and confidentiality of that paperwork, being a resource in the event of an incident. There is a meeting planned for Sunday November 8, 2015, time to be determined, for various boards and committees and pastors to go through what information has been gathered for the Child Protection Plan and to determine what pieces we want to implement.

5. Old Business a. Erin provided a proposed schedule for the Bethesda Bible Series. Schedule covers Friday

through Sunday. Erin talked about activities planned for each of the three days. The theme behind the series this year is moving from self to community to world. The Sunday schedule included a proposal to switch the Sunday School hour and worship. Presented ideas for what to do for radio and live stream. Discussion was held regarding the schedule including timeframes, speakers, activities, meals etc. Discussed that rather than starting on Saturday morning to start after lunch and move some of the Saturday activities to Sunday.

Erin will follow up with suggested changes and ideas as well as the speakers already scheduled to see if they are still able to participate if the scheduled times change. Erin shared that the website, churchleaders.com, has an extensive list of articles on church related topics, including what it means to be in community. Erin proposed putting excerpts from articles in the Bethesda News leading up to the Bethesda Bible Series. The Board agreed with that proposal. Andrea said those excerpts should be submitted to herself and Seth for review prior to being put in the Bethesda News.

b. Facility needs – Consultants from Arkos will be at Bethesda Saturday the November 14th through Monday November 16th. E-mail will be coming out to the Board Chairmans for the various Boards to set up times to meet with the consultants.

c. Child Development Center Possibilities – Tabled for November meeting

6. Closing – Becky closed with prayer. Next meeting will be held November 17, 2015 at 8:00 p.m. Becky Buller, Chairman Bev Quiring, Secretary

MINUTES BOARD OF EDUCATION Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska November 17, 2015 “To Facilitate the Christian Education of Children, Youth, and Adults that is consistent with the Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective of the Bible”

Present: Connie Bechtel, Becky Buller, Lavonne Braun, Royce Janzen, Bev Quiring, Brad Janzen, Pastor Andrea Wall, Erin Sams, Gina Mestl

Absent: Tammy Ott, Kori Lewis

AGENDA

1) Devotions – Pastor Andrea opened with prayer.

2) Secretary’s Report – No changes.

3) Treasurer’s Report – No changes.

4) New Business

a. Review and Approve Budget Worksheets for Committees: Reviewed budgets submitted by committees under Board of Education. Approved as submitted.

b. Review and Approve 2016 Education Board Budget: Budget reviewed, changes included increased in line item 6013 for Workshop & Training to $1500 to account for possible training expenses associated with Child Development Plan; increase in line item 6340, Devozine Subscription to $375; increase in line item 6235 Youth Ministry resources from $750. It was agreed to keep line item 6370, the Advent Devotional, of $100 in the budget in case some other person or group would want to take on this project in 2016.

c. Review and approve policy changes due to Child Protection Plan:

There was lengthy discussion regarding the Child Development Plan. Erin asked if the Board of Education would be approving to implement the Plan without input from the committees under the Board of Education. Erin and Connie both said their committees, Midweek and Sunday school respectively, see potential issues with some of the proposed duties and responsibilities.

Pastor Andrea explained that what we would be doing tonight is agreeing to put a review of the plan on the Board of Education calendar for 2016. Then as the plan is reviewed by various committees and board members, if there are changes that need to be made, this can be brought to broader group that will be made up of representatives of each board. Erin suggested that the Board of Education meet with the committees affected by the plan to get their thoughts on the proposals within the Plan that come under Board of Education responsibilities. Andrea agreed with Erin and shared the idea is to have collaborative conversations with those who have

questions. Pastor Andrea recommended asking committee members to join the Board of Education at a future meeting to share their thoughts and concerns. Pastor Andrea shared that this plan is subject to change based on our circumstances and it is meant to be a guide in helping us establish a working plan.

Erin asked about the training for the Child Protection Plan and the plan for it being held at the same time that Vacation Bible School preparations were taking place. Erin was concerned about the time factor in trying to get training in for VBS teachers and helpers and for the Child Protection Plan. Pastor Andrea said there are different types of training available and we could possibly find a training for VBS teachers and helpers in May that would incorporate training for the VBS volunteers and also the Child Protection Plan.

d. Update calendar for 2016 making sure to include Child Protection Plan responsibilities: It was agreed that the Child Protection Plan would be reviewed in February 2016 with the assumption that Sunday School Committee and Midweek Committee would have had opportunity to review the plan and present any concerns they have to the Board of Education prior to the February meeting. Becky reviewed the monthly calendar with the Board and will finalize the calendar and turn it into office.

5) Old Business

a. BBS 2016 Erin Sams Report - Bethesda Bible Series Overview: Erin reported that she does not have a set schedule for the BBS as she is still waiting to hear back from some of the potential participants. The recommended timeframe for the speakers to present is from 1 to 9. Erin is waiting to hear back from some of the speakers to confirm if they can participate or not. She has received some commitments and is working to finalize the remainder. Erin reported the Deacons approved switching Sunday school and worship services on January 31, 2016, with Sunday School being at 9:30 and worship at 10:30. Pastor Andrea added that she shared with the Deacons we are working on a plan for the radio broadcast for that Sunday since worship will be held after our allotted radio time. Erin stated she is still working on finalizing the sermon for Sunday as far as the speaker. Erin spoke with Rabbi Craig and he confirmed that we can take a group to attend Sabbath services on Friday night and children are welcome. The service will be in English and Hebrew. They do provide a nursery. There is a reception following the service, they would like to know how many people will be coming so they can prepare enough refreshments Erin asked for volunteers to introduce speakers during the various sessions. The introduction can be written by the person doing the introduction, or Erin will write it up. Kara Janzen (volunteered by Brad), Becky and Bev volunteered to help with introductions.

All activities will be held in Fellowship Hall. Pastor Andrea reminded Erin of the form for events that needs to be filled out. Erin asked what we should do about child care. She asked what age group we should go up to for childcare and for what times in the afternoon and evening. Erin suggested having the Shalom Readers do something with the children in the afternoon.

Pastor Andrea though it would be nice to have child care for all sessions. Brad said we could plan for a few of the events and parents with children could work together to provide child care for each other as well.

Meeting adjourned.

The next meeting will be held December 15, 2015 at 8:00 p.m. Items for future discussion:

1. Sunday School Committee Volunteers 2. Invite Shana Boshart to speak on Faith Formation 3. Circle of Grace Curriculum

Becky Buller, Chairman Bev Quiring, Secretary

MINUTES BOARD OF EDUCATION Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska December 15, 2015 @ 8:00 p.m. Present: Royce Janzen, Becky Buller, Connie Bechtel, Erin Sams, Brad Janzen, Kori Lewis Absent: Bev Quiring, Lavonne Braun, Gina Mestl, Tammy Ott, Pastor Andrea Wall Devotions: Becky opened with devotions by reading Luke 18, focusing on the rich young ruler and read the children’s story “The Quiltmaker’s Gift.” She emphasized the importance of our giving during Christmas. Secretary’s Report: No changes. Treasurer’s Report: No changes. New Business: Annual Meeting Report: We discussed the past year and highlighted what needed to be included in the Annual Report due on January 4. Becky will write and submit the Annual Report. Bethesda Bible Series Advertising: Erin is planning to begin advertising for Bethesda Bible Series on January 1, 2016. Different forms of advertising will be used, including Bethesda’s website, MyBridge Radio’s website, York radio station announcement, and flyers and posters designed by Abbie Friesen. Youth Ministry Council: Funds were approved for Jan Friesen to attend the Youth Ministry Council as a sponsor. Jan will pay for her airfare and the Board of Education will pay for the registration fee and meals. Preschool Carnival: The Bethesda Preschool Carnival will be January 17, 2016, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. Setup will begin at 2:00 p.m. and cleanup will be from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. The same company as last year will be setting up the carnival and volunteers will be asked to help run different activities. There will be baked goods for purchase, cakewalk, silent auction, and a meal. No outdoor activities are planned for this year. Bethesda Bible Series Overview: Bethesda Bibles Series speakers will begin at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, January 30, 2016. All but one speaker has confirmed. Church Council has approved art and coffee sales in the Fellowship Hall. On Sunday, January 31, Sunday school will be held at 9:30 a.m. and the worship service will be held at 10:30 a.m. A previously recorded service will play on the radio to fill the 9:30 a.m. time slot. We will also display MC USA’s “People on the Move” traveling exhibit highlighting different refugee groups around the world. Cost for this exhibit is $50. Joy and Gentry Friesen are organizing childcare. Activities for children will be from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. The next meeting is Tuesday, January 19, 2016, @ 8:00 p.m. Brad Janzen