Kansas City 2015 Sponsor Handbook
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Kansas City 2015 Sponsor Handbook
Welcome to the 2015 Mennonite Church USA Convention!
The theme of the 2015 Mennonite Church USA convention is, “On the Way,” taken from the story of the road to
Emmaus found in Luke 24. As you and your youth group prepare for this convention journey, this handbook is
intended to be your faithful companion and guide. It contains information you will need as a youth sponsor to make
KC2015 a meaningful experience for your youth group.
This handbook is divided into three sections: pre-convention, convention week, and post-convention. The pre-
convention section offers a Bible study and optional retreat which will help your group come ready to dive into
worship. It offers suggestions on how to prepare your group to build community and set expectations as a youth
group so everyone can have a positive and safe experience. It also will outline the registration process and provide
links to necessary forms.
The second section will cover details that will be helpful for you during the week of convention. It includes important
information regarding hotels, schedule, the convention center, worship services and small group reflection questions,
and special evening events.
The final section includes a post-convention group reflection process which is helpful as you debrief your experience
together. Taking the time to reflect on, give thanks for, and debrief significant learning experiences that your group
experienced in Kansas City will solidify relationships, deepen bonds, and make lasting memories.
Coming to a Mennonite convention takes time, energy, and commitment. We thank you for investing in the lives of
your youth. These churchwide experiences are often rich faith formation experiences for youth where they see
themselves, the church, and God in new ways. Experiences that will last a lifetime!
Whether you’ve been bringing youth groups to convention for years or if this is your first time, we hope that this
handbook assists you in planning for and knowing what to expect at KC2015. We wish you a calm and grace-filled
convention week, but we also know that no matter how well any of us plan, things will go the way they go! So, don’t
worry if something doesn’t go as intended. Be assured that there are many people at convention who are happy to
assist you. In the meantime, check out the convention website (www.mennoniteusa.org/convention) for detailed
information and frequently asked questions; join the Mennonite Church USA convention Facebook page
(www.facebook.com/MCUSA.Convention) for up-to-date announcements; and stay on top of the latest convention
happenings with Twitter (@MennCon). Download our mobile convention app by searching for “MennoCon” in the
App Store or Google Play. The convention staff member emails are also listed in Appendix A if you have a specific
question.
Like the travelers who walked together on the road to Emmaus discussing the highs and lows, the challenges and
changes of their times, let us gather to walk with one another. And we trust that as we meet together, Jesus will show
up in surprising ways. May God burn in our hearts and open our minds to all that God has in store for us at KC2015!
Joy for the journey,
Rachel S Gerber
Denominational Minister of Youth and Young Adults
Mennonite Church USA
Table of Contents
1. Pre-convention Recreation
a. Convention purpose statement Servant projects
b. Expectations for convention attendees Tuesday sponsor meeting
c. KC2015 theme b. Schedules
d. Frequently asked questions: c. Seminars
Answered! d. Learning experiences
e. Preparing for worship e. Conversation Room
Luke 24 retreat, “On the Way” f. Worship services
f. Community life Titles and speakers
Purpose Entering worship
g. Registration items g. Special events
Medical release forms Evening activities
Meals
Add-ons 3. Post-convention
Final payments Evaluations
h. Arrival Wrap up
Ground transportation See you at Orlando 2017!
Hotel check-in
Registration pick-up 4. Appendix
i. Top 20 tips and tricks Staff contact information
Engaging the homeless in Kansas
2. Convention week City
a. General information Bible study/retreat: “On the Way”
App from Luke 24
Blood drive Upon re-entry: post-convention
Curfew thoughts
Exhibit hall Post-convention Bible
First aid study/reflections
Interpretation services Youth and adults block schedule
Prayer team/Convention youth Junior youth block schedule
pastor
Section one: Pre-convention
This section contains materials that will help orient you and your group to the Mennonite Church
USA convention. It contains information regarding the purpose of convention, introduction to
worship, and information to help you register and prepare your group to travel to Kansas City.
Mennonite Church USA convention purpose statement
The purpose of the biennial Mennonite Church USA Convention is to empower the church
to achieve its vision, purpose and mission.
Key objectives
1. To gather representatives of the whole church for worship, fellowship, learning, discernment,
and decision making.
2. To build Mennonite Church USA vision, identity and capacity to join God’s mission in the
world.
3. To worship Jesus as the center of our faith; to embody community as the center of our lives; and
to embrace reconciliation as the center of our work.
4. To share the biblical story through an Anabaptist lens.
5. To provide resources to help all participants carry out God’s mission.
6. To serve as a witness to the host community where we are gathered.
7. To create an opportunity for all parts of Mennonite Church USA to gather regardless of race,
ethnicity, or socioeconomic status.
Key components
The adult gathering and Delegate Assembly will:
1. Encourage congregations to call, empower and bless their delegates to participate in the church-
wide process of discernment and ministry.
2. Provide a forum for the members of Mennonite Church USA to hear from and give counsel to
Mennonite Church USA agencies and ministries.
3. Create an environment for the Delegate Assembly to function effectively and efficiently on
behalf of the church.
4. Welcome and interact with representatives of sister churches.
5. Provide opportunities for discipleship and spiritual growth by nurturing a strong Mennonite
identity through an understanding of what it means to live out our faith as Mennonite
Anabaptists.
The junior youth and youth gatherings will:
1. Invite youth to make and/or strengthen their commitments to Christ.
2. Nurture a strong Mennonite identity through an understanding of what it means to live out our
faith as Mennonite Anabaptists
4
The young adult gathering will:
1. Provide opportunities for young adults to gather together and resource one another.
2. Provide opportunities for Mennonite Church USA leaders to learn from and hear the voices of
young adults to help the church in its mission.
3. Provide opportunities for young adults to learn about the ministry opportunities and governance
structures in Mennonite Church USA.
The children’s gathering will:
Foster safe and age-appropriate activities that encourage spiritual and relational growth, while
allowing parents to fully engage in the Mennonite Church USA convention.
Expectations for convention attendees
As planners, we want convention to be safe and enjoyable for all of our attendees, and we are
counting on everyone who comes to convention to help make this possible. While we may not
always agree with one another, we should always treat each other with respect. In order to make
convention as positive an experience as possible for everyone, here are some of our expectations for
all convention attendees:
Convention attendees should not engage in language or behavior that threatens the safety or
personhood of another convention attendee or community member. This includes racist
speech, hate speech, threats, sexual harassment, or any behavior that could be understood as
threatening. We will not tolerate hate speech or harassment based on sexual or gender
identity or directed specifically at LGBTQ participants. If you are a victim of language or
behaviors like this, please come to the convention office immediately to report the offender.
Blocking of hallways, fire exits, and points of egress is prohibited at all times. Gatherings
that in any way violate fire code regulations will be dispersed.
No literature (fliers, brochures, handouts, books, etc.) may be passed out beyond the exhibit
hall area. Seminar and workshop leaders can distribute handouts as necessary during their
sessions.
No promotional materials may be hung on convention center walls without the written
approval of Mennonite Church USA convention planning staff. This includes posters,
postcards, pictures, etc.
Disagreements should be resolved peacefully. Should conversations become heated, trained
mediators will be available onsite who will help to facilitate. In any and all disagreements, we
ask that you treat your conversation partners with the respect they deserve as a beloved
child of God.
Respect the instructions of convention planning staff and volunteers onsite. We are there to
serve you and to help make convention a good experience for everyone in attendance. If
you have a disagreement or complaint about the behavior of staff or a volunteer, please
come to the convention planning office to report it.
5
KC2015 Convention Theme
The 2015 Mennonite Church USA Convention theme is, “On the Way.” As convention planners,
we hope to build on the excitement and energy from the 2013 convention in Phoenix. The
inspiration for the theme “On the Way,” grew out of the prayer walk in Phoenix where convention
goers walked through the city streets. The theme, “On the Way,” emphasizes that we are “pilgrims
on a journey,” and that we have not reached our final destination yet. We are a body of Christ who
are seeking—both individually and collectively—to follow Jesus in our day-to-day lives and
interactions. And as we walk this journey, Christ comes to us, meets us on the road and
accompanies us through it all.
Frequently asked questions: Answered!
Q. Where can I get resources and information about the KC2015 convention?
A: The best way to stay up to date with the latest convention news is to check out the convention
web site and social media! As you prepare for Kansas City you will find all the information you need
on our web site: www.MennoniteUSA.org/convention. New resources and information are being
added every week. The block schedule, seminar list, and special events are listed on the site. Blogs
are added regularly, and you can subscribe to make sure you receive the latest updates via e-mail. We
also regularly highlight information on our Facebook page
(www.Facebook.com/MCUSA.convention). Be sure to “Like” this page so you don’t miss out on
the latest news! Download the convention app to stay on top of all the happenings in Kansas City.
Search the app store or Google Play for, “Mennonite Church USA Convention.” You can also
follow us on Twitter: @MennCon.
Q. We love Stella the dove! Will she be at Kansas City?
A: Absolutely! We invite your group to show your Mennonite spirit by taking pictures with Stella, the
Mennonite dove. In the meantime, download your own dove at our website and take pictures with
Stella wherever you go. Each Wednesday, upload your favorite snapshot to Instagram, and tag us
(@MennoCon). Each Thursday, we’ll select the photo with the most likes to highlight on our
convention website. Photos might also make an appearance during a pre-worship video at convention!
You can download and print your very own copy of Stella at our website:
www.convention.mennoniteusa.org/fly-with-stella-the-dove.
Q: Tell me more about servant projects. What can I expect?
A: Servant projects is another name for a Mennonite service project. If your group signed up for
servant projects during your group registration process, you will receive a confirmation e-mail in
early June with information about your assignment. The confirmation e-mail will tell you which day
you are assigned to serve, the agency hosting you, and any special clothing requirements.
When you arrive at convention, you will need to check-in at the servant project office, located in
room 2211. There you will receive information about any changes that may have occurred since you
received your confirmation e-mail and where to go for servant project orientation. If your servant
project is on Tuesday, check in at the servant project office between 8:00 and 11:30 in the
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morning and be in your orientation room promptly by 12:45 p.m. If you are scheduled to serve
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, or Saturday check in at the servant project office no later than the
day before you are scheduled to serve. On the day you are scheduled to do your servant project, be
in your orientation room promptly by 12:45 p.m.
Servant project orientations are an important time to set the tone for your time of service. You will
also meet your group leader there. Your group leader will get you on the right bus, to the right
agency, and connected with your local hosts when you arrive at your service location. The group
leader will also make sure you get back to the convention center on time.
If you are a sponsor whose children will be part of the children’s activities, you may need to find
alternative child care for lunch on the day of your servant project. The children’s programming takes
a break from noon to 1:45 p.m., and your servant project orientation will overlap with this break.
Please be sure that you identify someone to pick up and care for your children during this time, and
let the children’s convention staff know about this change.
Q: Will there be any offerings during the worship services?
A: Yes! We will have two worship services where offerings will be received to support ministries of
Mennonite Church USA. These offerings will be going to support: Care and Prevention Fund
(Friday morning service) and Racial Ethnic Leadership Education (Sunday morning service). More
information will be included in the program book.
Q: What is the Values Based Leadership Program? Can my youth participate?
A: One of the many learning experiences will focus on leadership development for high school
students. This learning track is being developed from the model of the Values Based Leadership
Program (http://www.vblp.org) and designed by its steering committee. In order to do the required
planning, we will accept the first 200 students who are nominated by their pastors and have
indicated willingness to participate. Please send the name of your nominee(s), the name and address
of your congregation, and an e-mail address for the nominee(s) to Beth Hunsberger,
BethH@MennoniteUSA.org.
7Worship
For many youth groups, worship is the highlight of the convention experience. Throughout the
convention week there will be nine worship services, including two joint worship services (Tuesday
evening and Sunday morning). Each service will include times of singing together, praying, messages
from compelling speakers, Scripture, drama, and more.
Convention worship is a unique experience. The diversity of a crowd of thousands of Mennonites
from across the nation coming together is a wonderful representation of the body of Christ
gathering. In preparation for worship, it might be helpful to talk with your youth about the fact that
convention worship might feel unique—it’s not necessarily like the worship at your home
congregation, and it is not supposed to be. Invite your youth to be open and hospitable, even if
parts of the service might seem different to them, or if they prefer another mode of music. Remind
them that the purpose of our worship gathering is to praise Christ, and is not centered on our
personal preferences. The worship planning committee has been crafting these worship services for
over a year, and it is our prayer that God will meet each of you in a meaningful way.
Bible study/retreat: This year, the pre-convention Bible study will be in the form of a retreat that
can be used in a one-time setting, or split over the course of several sessions. The following retreat
has been created to help your group engage the Biblical texts for convention so that you will be
prepared to jump right into worship! Spending time together as a youth group will help your group
work with the convention theme in preparation for Kansas City. The retreat was written by Rachel S.
Gerber, denominational minister of youth and young adults. See the Appendix C for the materials.
Community Life
Community Life is a volunteer team that serves the youth hotels. Each of the youth hotels (Sheraton
Crown Center, Westin Crown Center, Crowne Plaza, and Kansas City Marriot Downtown) will have
a team that will welcome youth groups when arriving and answer any questions you might have. Be
looking for the friendly faces with “Community Life” t-shirts to assist you!
Community Life provides sponsor support each evening by being available in common spaces, to sit
with youth that need an ear to listen, to ask groups to keep after-hour noise down out of respect for
other guests of the hotel, and to aid in case of emergency. The front desk at your hotel will have the
room number for the Community Life home base.
As you anticipate coming to convention, take some time as a youth group (perhaps invite parents to
participate as well) to process how you will “live together” for the week. We encourage youth groups
to develop a covenant together. This agreement could cover areas such as: technology use, meeting
times, seminar expectations, curfew, meals, etc. It should also include clear consequences should the
covenant not be upheld. Consider having youth leaders, youth, and parents sign the covenant for
Kansas City. Sample covenants are available from the convention planning office
(ScottH@MennoniteUSA.org).
8Make sure to have at least one sponsor from your group attend the sponsor meeting in Kansas City.
It will take place on Tuesday night following worship. At the meeting, you will receive additional
information regarding procedures and schedule, have opportunities to ask questions, and meet the
Community Life team from your hotel.
In case of emergency: Call 605.660.4486, Brent Brockmueller, Community Life Coordinator.
Registration
All registration forms can be found on the Mennonite Church USA convention website
(convention.mennoniteusa.org). If you have any questions regarding the process, you can call Carol
Epp or Tonya Keim Bartel at 866-866-2872.
Medical release forms: Medical release forms must be submitted for anyone under the age of 18
attending KC2015. Forms are due May 17, 2015. A link to an electronic version of the form was
included in your registration confirmation information. Email copies of your forms to
TonyaKB@MennoniteUSA.org or mail copies to: Mennonite Church USA, Attn: Medical Release
Forms, 3145 Benham Ave., Suite 1, Elkhart, IN 46517.
Meals: Meals can be added to your registration until June 1. Log in to your registration account and
add meals for each member of your group.
Add-ons: T-shirts or a trip to the Worlds of Fun amusement park on Thursday night can be added
until June 1. Add these items by logging in to your registration account.
Final payments: Make final payments by June 3. You can check your balance by logging in to your
registration account. For credit card payments, access your account. Send checks to: Mennonite
Church USA, Attn: Registrar, 3145 Benham Ave., Suite 1, Elkhart, IN 46517.
Upon arrival in Kansas City
Please use the following link for information regarding transportation information to Kansas City:
http://convention.mennoniteusa.org/kansas-city/getting-there/.
Ground transportation: Several ground transportation options are available for those flying into
the Kansas City International Airport.
Super Shuttle: This is a shared ride service that provides door-to-door transportation. You will be
picked up at the airport and dropped off at your hotel. Reservations may be made directly on their
website, www.SuperShuttle.com. Enter the discount code PNUR7 to receive a discount off your
round-trip reservation. The rate is $18 one-way or $30 round-trip for a shared ride to any of the
convention hotels.
5 Guys Transportation: This is a private transportation company that can provide van service to
your hotel for one to five people. A uniformed driver will meet you at the baggage claim with your
9name on a signboard and will assist you with your luggage. The cost is a minimum of $50 per van
one-way for up to five people. There are no reduced rates for fewer passengers in the van.
Hotel phone numbers:
Crowne Plaza Kansas City Downtown 816-474-6664
Marriott Kansas City Downtown 816-421-6800
Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center 816-841-1000
Westin Kansas City at Crown Center 816-474-4400
Registration pick-up: Convention registration will be open Tues., June 30, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:30
p.m. To avoid congestion in the registration area, send a few sponsors (not your entire youth group)
to pick up your materials. Find the registration area in Lobby 2200, located just off the 13th Street
underpass. Registration materials will be available under your congregation’s name.
Top 21 tips and tricks
We want you to feel prepared and equipped for your week at convention! Below are a few
suggestions from leaders who have “been around the convention block” with some wisdom that
might help you to prepare.
1. Read the sponsor handbook—check!
2. At the airport: Travel in “travel teams”, where one adult travels with 3-5 kids and is
responsible for getting them from the starting point all the way to the hotel lobby. This
makes getting taxis and moving through airports so much easier and removes the need to
keep a large group together. For those flying into the Kansas City airport, be aware that it is
a relatively small airport and is very easy to navigate. One downside is that there are very
limited food options within the airport. Do not plan on getting a meal at the airport. Pick up
a couple headphone splitters. They are great for letting youth share music and killing time
while waiting at an airport.
3. Make sure everyone fills out the medical release and contact info form. Email a copy
to Tonya Keim Bartel (TonyaKB@MennoniteUSA.org), convention expediter. But also keep
a copy in your hotel room, file a copy with your church secretary AND take a picture of
each one on your phone. If there’s an emergency, no matter where you are you have the info
at your fingertips.
4. Ear plugs are helpful for some adults in worship.
5. Talk positively about your youth group. At gatherings like this, it seems very tempting to
talk with other sponsors about your youth, and this can often turn into “gripe sessions.” It is
most helpful to remain positive and to name things about your group that are affirming.
6. Make sure you have time for yourself. Build in some space for quiet and alone time. The
Prayer Room is available all week long for just this sort of thing!
7. Find some time to chat one-on-one with your youth throughout the week. This can be
tough sometimes, but well worth the effort. This is one of the only ways to hear how
everyone is really doing.
8. Don’t skip small group time! If your group is very large, it can sometimes it can be
difficult for youth to be honest and participate. It is much easier to be vulnerable in a small
group. Groups of four to five work well. Make the time meaningful by emphasizing or
discussing on some key things from the messages.
9. Be vulnerable with your youth throughout the week, as much as you feel able.
1010. As much as possible, show your youth you trust them. If you are always setting up rules
to stay ahead of all possible problems/ infractions, you and your youth will be miserable!
Instead show them your trust and they often respond well. Obviously, this is not always the
case and some things need to be dealt with firmly. But, in general, remember that love for
your youth trumps all rules!
11. Include large group building times throughout week. This is important not only for
group dynamics, but to deepen connections, build trust, and share faith with one another.
12. Be clear about your expectations for number of seminars to attend, worship participation,
meal attendance, etc. Decide ahead of time what to do as a group and what to do
individually. It is fun to go to the recreation hall as a group, or decide to go to a workshop or
two together, while also giving enough freedom to explore individual interests. Always be
sure to give a chance to come back together afterward so youth can share about their
experiences.
13. Find another youth group beforehand and plan to get to know them at convention. This
can build bridges across Mennonite Church USA, among urban and rural congregations,
between people who grew up Mennonites and people who are newer to the church, etc.
14. Invite members of your congregation to be prayer partners for the youth and adults
who will attend convention. Invite those at home to be in prayer throughout the week for
their assigned person. Have them write them a note or card to be opened at convention.
Provide cards for the youth to write to their partner at the end of the week. Not only is
prayer essential to a successful convention experience, it also keeps those at home and at
convention mindful of one another!
15. Be the adult. Don’t rely on Community Life staff to send kids to their rooms for bedtime.
That is your job. Be proactive and specific about your expectations for hotel conduct.
16. Fringe youth. Do you have youth that are sometimes on the fringes of group activities?
Talk about it. Don’t expect them to blend in or have a positive experience without good
communication on your part. Facilitate time for shared experiences, find out what interests
them and encourage it.
17. Food. Buy the lunch at the convention center for convenience. It might cost a little more
than a meal at a restaurant, but it is quick and easy to eat in the building. Our group also
enjoys the time hanging out with everyone else in the dining hall, too. Consider building
costs for snacks into your budget. Snacks in the convention hall and surrounding areas can
be expensive, so providing an easy snack, such as granola bars, can encourage good eating
and spending, and also give a chance to check-in as a group.
18. Write a covenant together before you come to convention. Include expectations for
travel, participation, dress code, electronics, and how people treat one another. Include
consequences when expectations are not met. Ask parents, youth, and sponsors to sign the
covenant before convention. Send an email to ScottH@MennoniteUSA.org for samples.
19. Your hotel concierge is a great source of information about restaurants and businesses
in the area. They can tell you where the closest pharmacy or coffee shop is.
20. Engaging homeless in KC. See Appendix B.
21. Relax and have fun!
11Section two: Convention week
You made it! Welcome to convention week at Kansas City! Take a deep breath. Our prayer is that
you will be able to fully enter in and be present here.
General information
App: New for KC2015 in our app sponsored by Bethel College, Bluffton University, EMU, Goshen
College and Hesston College. Search for “mennocon” in iTunes store or Google Play. This app will
have schedules, maps, speaker information and much more.
Blood drive: Community Blood Center will be administering a blood drive on July 2 and 3 in the
Exhibit Hall. Hours of the drive are 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. Anyone 17 and older may donate. Sign up on
site.
Curfew: The city of Kansas City has a municipal curfew for persons under the age of 18. Youth
aged 15 years and younger: 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. Youth aged 16 and 17 years of age: 11 p.m. to 5 a.m.
Exhibit hall: Visit the exhibits of Mennonite Church USA agencies, schools and other Mennonite-
related organizations in Exhibit Hall D. In addition to college/university activities, interactive
exhibits will include Mennonite Mission Network, Mennonite Central Committee, and Mennonite
Camping Association. Meet your favorite author and get your book signed at the MennoMedia
display. A list of exhibitors and the exhibit floor plan will be posted inside the entrance to the hall.
Hours:
Tuesday, 8:45 to 11 p.m.
Wednesday, noon to 11 p.m.
Thursday, noon to 10 p.m.
Friday, noon to 11 p.m.
Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
First aid: The first aid room is located in the hallway just outside Exhibit Hall D. For a medical
emergency, summon help by phoning the security operations center at 816-513-5111. Report the
emergency, giving location if possible and other details. House security will call 911. Stay with the
injured/ill person until house security arrives. House security will coordinate the arrival of the
Kansas City Fire Department and will also guide emergency medical staff to the location of the
injured person. The Kansas City Convention Center is equipped with a sufficient number of first aid
stations. Event and house security guards are trained and equipped as first responders to medical
emergencies and can provide minor first aid. House security guards are certified in administering the
automatic external defibrillator.
12Interpretation services: KC2015 planners want to make information as accessible as possible and
have arranged for volunteers to provide Spanish and Spoken-Sign (ASL) interpretation services.
Spanish interpretation will be provided during youth and adult worship services and delegate
sessions and ASL interpretation and/or English based signed transliteration will be available upon
request.
Please make requests for interpretation in advance. If you did not indicate the need for
interpretation when you registered, we will do our best to accommodate last-minute requests, but we
cannot guarantee that volunteers will be available at any one time.
Prayer team/convention pastor: Prayer is a vital part of the convention week. Many hours of
prayer have been given already for this week, and prayer will continue to surround you during the
week of convention. Kansas City 2015 will have a prayer team with prayer members actively engaged
in prayer during delegate and worship sessions.
Availability: Prayer team members are available to pray with you or your youth, for anointing or
counseling following worship services or at other times. Rachel Gerber will serve as youth pastor for
the convention. She will help and assist sponsors and youth pastors in the event that counsel, prayer
and/or difficult decisions need to be made during the week of convention. Rachel will be in regular
communication with the convention prayer team coordinators (Meghan Good and John Murray) to
pass along items for prayer and to periodically join them in times of prayer. If you need a private
space to pray or meet with a prayer team member, Room 2207 is available from 8:00 a.m. to 10:30
p.m. every day.
Prayer stations: Various prayer stations are set up throughout the convention center. These stations
include paper and pencils for you to write down your prayer requests and drop them in a covered
basket. Members of the prayer team take two prayer walks daily, stopping at each prayer station to
receive and pray through your requests. All requests are held in confidence.
Recreation: The rec hall is located in Exhibit Hall C (enter thru the main exhibit hall). Giant
checkers, corn hole, and gaga ball will be available this year! There will also be volleyball and
basketball courts; ping-pong; four square; giant Jenga; soccer games; badminton; table games; and an
area for younger children. For a complete listing of activities and specific times of events, go to the
recreation info table (in the recreation hall).
• Due to a limited number of basketball and volleyball courts, each youth group will be
allowed to reserve only one hour of court time for the week. To sign up, stop by the
recreation info table.
• When you check out a ball, Ping-Pong paddle or other equipment, be prepared to leave an
item as “ransom” until you return the equipment. For example, your cell phone, ID, watch,
or meal ticket.
• We will hold lost and found items at the info table for the day. At closing each night, we
will take all items to lost and found at the information booth.
Hours:
Tuesday, 8:45 to 11 p.m.
Wednesday, noon to 11 p.m.
Thursday, noon to 10 p.m.
Friday, noon to 11 p.m.
Saturday, noon to 6 p.m.
13Servant projects: When you arrive at convention, you will need to check-in at the servant project
office, located in room 2211. There you will receive information about any changes that may have
occurred since you received your confirmation e-mail and where to go for servant project
orientation. If your servant project is on Tuesday, check in at the servant project office between
8:00 and 11:30 in morning and be in your orientation room by 12:45 p.m. If you are scheduled to
serve Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, or Saturday, check in at the servant project office no later
than the day before you are scheduled to serve. On the day of your servant project, be in your
orientation room by 12:45 p.m.
Servant project orientations are an important time to set the tone for your time of service. You will
also meet your group leader there. Your group leader will get you on the right bus, to the right
agency, and connected with your local hosts when you arrive at your service location. The group
leader will also make sure you get back to the convention center on time.
If you are a sponsor whose children will be part of the children’s activities, you may need to find
alternative child care for lunch on the day of your servant project. The children’s program takes a
break from noon to 1:45 p.m., and your servant project orientation will overlap with this break.
Please be sure that you identify someone to pick up and care for your children during this time, and
let the children’s convention staff know about this change.
Tuesday sponsor meeting: Don’t miss it! Make sure to have at least one sponsor from your
group attend the sponsor meeting on Tuesday night following worship. You will receive additional
information regarding procedures and schedule, opportunities to ask questions, as well as meet
several of the key coordinators for convention.
Schedules
You can view the overall Convention schedule online: www.convention.mennoniteusa.org/schedule.
In addition to the adult and youth gatherings at convention, special events and activities have been
planned for young adults, junior youth, and children (from 0 to 5th grade).
Young adults
Young adults have several events planned specifically for them. Check the program book for a
listing of special young adult seminars.
A special conversation is planned specifically for young adults on Thursday from 9:30 – 11 p.m.
For the sake of the church: Sharing our voice and perspective
Young adults have much to share with the church, and the Executive Board is inviting young adults
to a conversation. Join Rachel Gerber, denominational minister for youth and young adults; Ervin
Stutzman, executive director of Mennonite Church USA; and other members of the Executive
Board in a conversation led by young adults to discuss our church. Bring your ideas for topics you’d
14like to discuss, and we’ll form small groups. We’ll be using the Open Spaces method, which means
that the conversation will be shaped by those who attend, and members of the Executive Board will
primarily be listening in and gaining insights for Mennonite Church USA. The conversation is open
to all young adults attending convention.
Additional young adult events include:
Tuesday night: Dessert reception.
Wednesday night: KC Crawl in the Power and Light District and music at the “Green Lady” Jazz
Lounge.
Thursday morning: Conversation with Erik Kratz, catcher for the KC Royals baseball team, on
following your passion.
Junior youth
Junior youth activities will take place in Room 1501 at the convention center. Junior youth will meet
each morning at 7:45 a.m. and be done each evening at 9:00 p.m. See Appendix F for the junior
youth block schedule.
Children's programming
Children’s activities will take place in Great Hall (3501). More information will come in May from
the coordinator.
Hours: 7:45 a.m.–noon and 1:45–5:45 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday.
Preschool activities will take place in Great Hall (3501). More information will come in May from
the coordinator.
Hours: 7:45 a.m.–noon and 1:45–5:45 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday.
Infant/toddler care will take place in Great Hall (3501). More information will come in May from
the coordinator.
Hours: Morning sessions: 7:45 a.m.–noon, Wednesday through Saturday; Afternoon sessions: 1:45–
5:45 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday; Evening sessions: 7:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m., Tuesday,
Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.
No infant/toddler care will be provided on Thursday evening. It is an open evening for
families to participate in convention activities together.
Family room: The Mennonite Early Childhood Network (MECN) is offering a space for parents
and young children to relax together away from crowds and hallways. You’re invited to use the
room to play games, rest, regroup as a family, and meet other convention attendees. Children must
be supervised at all times. A special area is provided for nursing mothers. Hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
daily in Room 2208.
Other activities
15Morning activities: Several activities have been planned to help start your day right!
Exercises: 7:00 a.m., Gather for a variety of morning exercises, including Zumba and morning
stretching.
Morning Prayer: 8:00 a.m., Join the Peace and Justice Support Network for Centering Prayer.
Begin the day centering your heart and mind on Christ. See the Peace and Justice Support
Network booth in the exhibit hall for additional information.
Seminars: The final seminar lists will be available on our website
(www.convention.mennoniteusa.org/schedule/seminar-schedule). They will also be included in the
program book and on the mobile app.
Learning experiences: In Phoenix, we had great success with our day of “learning experiences.” At
Kansas City, we will continue with interactive experiences that invite youth to join a variety of
interactive session and try something new. These sessions, ranging in length from two to four hours,
will provide options for youth and adults to explore the theme of the week through activities like
special guest speakers, a cross-cultural simulation game, peacemaking through martial arts, song
composition and more. See our website and app for a complete listing of learning experiences.
Conversation room: The goal of these sessions, led by trained facilitators, is not to convince
anyone to change a theological perspective, or even to have a final answer, but rather to practice
listening and talking together. Sessions are successful if at the end participants feel they listened well
to someone with a different perspective or that someone listened well to them. It is important to
remember that the time together is one small part of a longer process of being church together.
Located in 2215C.
The Challenge of ISIS to Christian Peacemakers Wed. 1:30 – 3:00 pm
The Church and Evangelism Wed. 3:30 – 5:00 pm
Loving one another in a divided church Thurs. 12:30 – 2:00 pm
The Church and Sexual Orientation Thurs. 7:15 - - 8:45 pm
The Church and Israel/Palestine Fri. 1:30 – 3:00 pm
The Church and Racism Sat. 8:30 – 10:00 am
Christian Witness and Interfaith Dialogue Sat. 1:30 – 3:00 pm
Worship Schedule: The theme for Kansas City worship is, “On the Way,” from Luke 24. Each
worship service will deepen our understanding of this text and we trust that God will be on the
move! This year we are thrilled to have Jeremy Kempf and band back again to lead music. We will
also be blessed by Esdras Ferreras and Kim Litwiller as the youth worship leaders.
The following schedule lists themes, scripture and speakers for each worship service. See our
website (www.convention.mennoniteusa.org/convention-411/youth-worship) for more about the
worship services.
Tuesday Night, June 30, 2015 (Shared Worship)
16Title: Come Together on the Way
Speaker: Michelle Armster
Scripture: Luke 1:1-Luke 24:3
Wednesday Morning, July 1, 2015
Title: Breaking Bread on the Way
Speaker: Isaac Villegas
Scripture: Luke 24: 28-31
Wednesday Night, July 1, 2015
Title: Wondering on the Way
Speaker: Michelle Hershberger
Scripture: Luke 24: 13-24
Thursday Morning, July 2, 2015
Title: The Word on the Way
Speaker: TBD
Scripture: Luke 24: 25-27; 45-48
Friday Morning, July 3, 2015
Title: Amazed on the Way
Speaker: Cyneatha Millsaps
Scripture: Luke 24: 4-12
Friday Night, July 3, 2015
Title: Catching Fire on the Way
Speaker: Glen Guyton
Scripture: Luke 24:31-32
Saturday Morning, July 4, 2015
Title: What is the Way Forward?
Speaker: Michele Hershberger
Scripture: Luke 24: 33-36
Saturday Night, July 4, 2015
Title: Witnessing Along the Way
Speaker: John Valenzuela
Scripture: Luke 24:36-49
Sunday Morning, July 5, 2015 (Shared Worship)
Title: On the Way
Speaker: Shane Claiborne
Scripture: Isaiah 43:18-19; Hebrews 11; Luke 24:25-26
Entering worship
Youth are often eager to get into the worship hall, and while this enthusiasm is welcome, it can also
be dangerous. Doors have been ripped off and people have been injured in the past. To help
alleviate some of the chaos of getting into worship, and to provide more groups the opportunity to
17sit near the front of the worship hall, a rotating seating plan will be used in Kansas City. Hopefully
relationships will also be formed between youth groups as they sit in a shared section for each
service.
Included in your onsite registration materials will be stickers with the logo of one of our seven
Mennonite higher education institutions (Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary, Bethel College,
Bluffton University, Eastern Mennonite Seminary, Eastern Mennonite University, Goshen College,
Hesston College). Each member of your group will need to place a sticker on their name badge. All
members of your group will have the same sticker. These stickers will be used to determine which
section of the worship hall your group will sit in for each service. The worship hall will be divided
into seven sections. Each section will be assigned to one of the different colleges or seminaries. You
will be asked to sit in the section that matches your sticker.
Every day, the institutions will be rotated so that you will be able to sit in many different areas of the
worship hall over the course of the week. Your sticker will also identify which escalator your group
will use to enter worship. Large signs will be displayed at the bottom of the escalator as well as the
sides of the section your group should use for each service. More information will be included with
the stickers in your registration materials.
For several reasons, we will not be using this system for opening worship. However, if your group
chooses to participate in the opening prayer walk through downtown Kansas City, you will be
allowed to enter the worship hall first. Please talk with your youth about appropriate behavior for
getting into the worship space. Encourage patience, respect, and generosity. This system is going to
be based on honor. Please respect the system, and other groups, and sit in the appropriate section
each service.
Special events
Every evening at Kansas City, there will be a variety of late-night activities that are planned. Check
them out!
Tuesday, June 30
Prayer Walk: 6:00 p.m. A prayer walk is being organized for participants to pray for Kansas
City, its leaders and our week together. Those who go on the prayer walk will be the first to
enter into the hall for opening worship.
Exhibit hall and recreation grand opening: Check out booths from Anabaptist organizations all
over the world, and visit our recreation hall for a chance to shoot some hoops or join in an
indoor soccer tournament. You might even find a free t-shirt to take home with you!
MennoFolk Coffee House: Join us each evening for fellowship, coffee and music from a variety
of artists from across the church.
Late night hymn sing: For many, singing in four-part harmony with thousands of other
Mennonites is one of the highlights of convention week. Join Pastor Tom Harder for a time
of singing old favorites and new hymns, too!
Wednesday, July 1
18 Panic Squad improv show: What is your passion? Skydiving? Knitting? Late night
infomercials? For the Panic Squad (www.panicsquad.com), it’s improv comedy. Wit.
Pressure. Impulse. Spontaneous comedy. Energy. Purpose. Panic Squad performers come
from all walks of life—a pastor, an actor, a fundraiser, a manager, an IT guru, a barista, a
banker, a worship director and more. They come from the U.S. and Canada, from the East
Coast and the West. What they share is a God given, and God honoring, talent to make
people laugh, a love for entertaining, and a commitment to only settle for the highest quality
of comedy. Join the Panic Squad troupe for a night full of laughter and comedy!
KC Crawl: Join us in the Power and Light District--just a few short blocks from the
convention center–-for a Mennonite evening out on the town. Local restaurants will be
offering special deals on appetizers and snacks for Mennonite Church USA convention
attendees only. This is a chance to hang out with friends and get a taste of Kansas City!
Film festival: Join us each night at convention for a film focusing on the theme, On the Way,
and what it means to be on a journey. Sponsored by Everence.
Thursday, July 2
Offsite trip: Worlds and Oceans of Fun amusement park: Join other convention attendees for an
evening out on the town at Worlds and Oceans of Fun (www.worldsoffun.com), a combined
amusement and water park. Round-trip transportation will run to and from the convention
center from 3:00-11:00 p.m. Pre-registration is required for this event. Tickets and
transportation cost $30/person.
Bluegrass jam: Book of Jebb and Five Times Harder: Join us for an evening of bluegrass music!
The Book of Jebb has been entertaining and astounding audiences since 2007, showcasing
strong vocals, blazing solos and tight harmonies. Come hear bluegrass, gospel and folk music
played with taste and skill by Bethany Schrag, Jesse Graber, Ben Regier, Eric Schrag and Tim
Regier. Five Times Harder is a family band at its best. They’ve been playing together since
parents Tom and Lois noticed that their three girls were already singing along at their duo
gigs. The family loves making music; come let them sing and play for you.
Friday, July 3
Kansas Mennonite Men’s Chorus: Membership in the Kansas Mennonite Men’s Chorus totals
more than 300 men who come from cities and towns across Kansas and from Oklahoma,
Colorado and Nebraska. 2015 marks the 47th year of the chorus, which has performed
concerts across the United States, and in Canada and Europe. The KMMC has raised more
than $700,000 for the world-wide relief efforts of Mennonite Central Committee (MCC).
Through traditional hymns, gospel favorites and contemporary Christian music performed in
classic four-part harmony style, KMMC concerts bring joy to the audience through this
ministry of music. Leading the chorus is Greg Bontrager, conductor, with support by
Andrew Voth, assistant conductor, and Ken Rogers, accompanist.
Menno Ecnad: Who says Mennos don’t dance? An event for youth and young adults alike.
Come join us for snacks, dancing and fellowship. Caleb McClendon, youth pastor at Calvary
Community Church, in Hampton, Va., will serve as the DJ for the night.
An evening with Alan and Debra Hirsch: Alan and Debra Hirsch are the founding directors of
Forge Mission Training Network. Currently Alan co-leads Future Travelers, an innovative
learning program helping churches become missional movements. Known for their
19innovative approach to mission, Alan is considered to be a thought-leader and key mission
strategist for churches across the Western world, and Debra is a well-known speaker and
lecturer. The Hirsches will be joined by church planters across Mennonite Church USA for a
dynamic, interactive conversation on the state of church planting and mission in the United
States.
Saturday, July 4
Ted & Co. drama, “Listening for Grace”: This new play by Ted Swartz is a funny, powerful,
poignant performance which gives voice to our fears and hopes when a faith community
engages in questions around same-sex relationships. A father’s journey, a church’s struggle,
and a search for commonality. Watch a teaser trailer online. This presentation is made possible
with support from Western District Conference Human Sexuality Discernment Task Force, New Creation
Fellowship Church, Newton, Kan., and Rainbow Mennonite Church.
Mennos Got Talent: We know this church is chock full of people with interesting talents, and
we want to showcase some of the best-of-the-best onstage at convention. If you’ve got a
talent you want to showcase at convention, send a short video (five minutes or less) to
Hannah Heinzekehr (HannahH@MennoniteUSA.org) by May 1. The top 8-10 acts will be
chosen to perform live at convention.
Late night hymn sing
Section three: Post-convention
Evaluations: Evaluations will be done electronically. Watch for a link to the evaluation form in your
e-mail. Please complete the form as soon as possible. A link will also be placed on our website. The
convention app will include surveys for various seminars and worship services. Your responses will
make the next convention even better.
Videos: Speaker and summary videos will be available for download to convention attendees.
Following convention you will be emailed a passcode that can be used to access the videos.
Wrap up: A post-convention Bible study and thoughts on helping your youth navigate “re-entry” is
included in Appendix D. You are encouraged to use this with your youth group after returning from
Kansas City.
We look forward to seeing you at Orlando 2017! Mark the dates on your calendar now, July
5-8, 2017!
Also, mark January 29-31, 2016 on your calendars. Mennonite Church USA convention planning
and Youth Ministry Council are planning a weekend retreat for youth pastors and youth sponsors in
Orlando. This event will allow you to get away for a weekend of inspiration and relaxation. You will
also get to see the convention center and the convention hotels for Orlando 2017.
Appendix A
20Meet the Convention Planning staff!
The convention planning team is hard at work, collaborating with leaders and church members all across the
country, to help ensure that Kansas City 2015 is a meaningful and important event. We are all available to
speak with you and easily accessible by e-mail should you ever have a question or concern.
Glen Guyton, Chief Operating Officer
Glen loves God, his family, and living in Texas. He believes life is worth living
and that the gospel should be shared to all.
GlenG@MennoniteUSA.org, San Antonio, Texas. Phone direct: 574-523-3044,
(toll free) 1-866-866-2872, ext. 23044
Carol Epp, Registrar and Office Manager
Carol has enjoyed meeting new people at each convention, and seeing each
gathering unfold with its own unique and memorable story.
CarolE@MennoniteUSA.org, Elkhart office. Phone direct: 574-523-3048, (toll
free) 1-866-866-2872, ext. 23048
21Scott Hartman, Convention Planning Coordinator
Scott has been helping plan the church wide convention for over 15 years. He
works closely with registration, exhibits, recreation and the many logistics that
make convention a success. He loves seeing all the parts fall into place as the
convention week unfolds.
ScottH@MennoniteUSA.org, Elkhart office. Phone direct: 574-523-3049, (toll
free) 1-866-866-2872, ext. 23049
Hannah Heinzekehr, Director of Communications
Hannah joined the convention team in February 2012. Convention has been an
important place of spiritual formation and growth for Hannah, and she loves
being involved in the process of planning these events!
HannahH@MennoniteUSA.org, Newton office. Phone direct: 574-523-3025,
(toll free) 1-866-866-2872, ext. 23025
Tonya Keim Bartel, Convention Planning Expediter
Tonya loves details! She particularly enjoys coordinating convention volunteers,
seeing old friends and finding new faces. In her spare time, Tonya is an avid
writer who also wrangles three lively kids and one very ornery husband.
TonyaKB@MennoniteUSA.org, Newton office
Phone direct: 913-961-3149, (toll free) 1-866-866-2872, ext. 34256
Appendix B
Engaging the Homeless during KC2015
Oley Valley Mennonite Church summed it up pretty well in a blog they wrote following
Phoenix2013, “We mean well, but we can be pretty stupid.”
Like many people who stayed at the Sheraton hotel, the group from Oley Valley noticed the food
some well-meaning group sat out for the homeless.
22The blogger made the following observations:
“Perhaps when we seek to be inclusive, we actually demonstrate
tokenism.
Perhaps when we seek to combat injustice, we alienate potential
allies.
Perhaps when we seek to live charitably, we actually perpetuate
economic disparity.
Mennonites are well-meaning, sincere people seeking to live like
Jesus and follow the way of the cross. But as we stumble along
the way, we would be well-served to walk slowly, gingerly, patiently, always seeking to listen and
respond to those most directly impacted by our actions.”
How we engage the homeless at our national convention is always a complicated and sensitive topic.
How do we show the love of Christ and help those in need while ensuring the safety and security of
our participants? In the past some groups have invited homeless people to worship with them with
mixed results. I say mixed results because these groups do not inform the convention planning staff
and they often do not maintain contact with their guests. This means that the local security officers
often try to remove the person from the premises, leading to embarrassment and confusion. Also
many cities, including Kansas City have vagrancy laws which the convention planning staff have no
control over. Right or wrong, Kansas City seeks to keep the homeless from tourist areas and out of
places like the Kansas City Convention Center (KCCC). So our random acts of kindness can have a
negative impact on the very people we seek to help.
The convention planning staff has made contact with local ministries that provide long-term support
to the homeless. Our groups will only be around a short-time. The homeless in Kansas will remain
long after our generosity returns to our home congregations. Here are a list of suggestions for those
wishing to engage the homeless meaningful ways.
1. Start in your home community. Before launching out to help the homeless in Kansas City,
start with showing love and compassion to the neighbors who you can minister to on an
ongoing basis. The first time you feed a homeless person or invite them to worship shouldn’t be
at the biennial convention.
2. Partner with a local homeless shelter. Kansas City Rescue Mission is a great place to start.
This ministry has been helping the homeless since 1950. They have a list of immediate needs on
their website. This organization provides over 85,000 meals and 43,000 nights of shelter a year.
3. Know your guest. Before deciding to invite someone to a convention gathering ask yourself
two questions: Would I invite them home with my family? Would I invite them to church with
me? You should be able to yes to one if not both questions. Studies suggest that 20-25% of
homeless people in the United States suffer from mental illness. Also abused women and
children also make up a large portion of the homeless community. One last question you should
ask yourself: By inviting a homeless person to worship are you meeting their needs or satisfying
yours?
4. Register your guest with the convention planning office. We have many youth and children
who attend convention and are trusted to our care. It is important that we know who is in the
building and provide as much safety as possible.
235. Remain with you guests. First, it is rude to invite a person to worship and then abandon them.
Second, you are responsible for anyone you invite to convention.
While I specifically referred to homeless people in this article, the tips apply to any person that you
invite to our Mennonite Church USA convention. Our seminars, worship services, and business
sessions are geared toward members of Mennonite Church USA. We do have a number of public
events and activities that may be well suited to guests and non-Mennonites. You will have to use
your best judgement to know what would benefit your guests the most.
We welcome hospitality and the opportunity to engage new people, but true hospitality begins at
home.
Appendix C
24Pre-Convention Bible Study:
“On the Way” retreat
Purpose: This day-long retreat is designed to
journey into Luke 24, the central scripture for
the Mennonite USA Convention at Kansas
City 2015.The intent of this retreat is to gain
familiarity with the convention text, and also
to increase awareness of the presence of God
that walks with us through our whole life.
Through silence, prayer, simple rituals, and
meditation on Scripture, we will be led on a
journey that follows the story of the road to Emmaus. As the youth join with the disciples on the road, they
will be invited to name their own areas of disillusionment, confusion, questions, and grief that are then
transformed into an awareness of how Christ comes and walks with us on the way. If possible, hold this
retreat at a place where one can walk outside in nature. Encourage participants to bring comfortable attire and
shoes. If time is a constraint, this retreat can also be done in sections, and adapted to fit over the course of a
few weeks.
Materials needed:
Music: recorded instrumental music and a way to play it (iPhone, computer, CD player); Sing
the Story (hymnal supplement).
Copies: Schedule and handouts 1-3
Room and furnishings: low circular table for center of the room, comfortable chairs
arranged in a circle or semi-circle.
Worship materials for the center table: brown/burlap cloth runner, stones (session 1); tea
light candle (session 2); tablecloth, large white candle, basket, cloth napkin, bread (please
take into consideration those who might be gluten-free in your group) (session 3);
Brown/burlap cloth runner, permanent markers (session 4).
Food: Arrange for a noon meal; cups, napkins, plates, tea, juice, hot chocolate, milk, and
snacks for break.
Other: paper, pens/pencils, matches
Schedule:
9:00 a.m. Gathering
9:30 a.m. Session one—Walking Meditation: The journey on the way
10:45 a.m. Session two—Walking Meditation: The companion on the way
12:00 p.m. Lunch
1:00 p.m. Session three—Awakening on the way
2:15 p.m. Session four—On the way back
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