Our Story
Founded in 1957 as Kansas City Mennonite Church, our congregation began as a mission church in Rosedale, Kansas. Early growth and a strong commitment to community led to a merger with Grace Mennonite Church in 1964, forming Rainbow Boulevard Mennonite Church.
Our History
Through partnerships with neighboring churches, Rainbow became deeply involved in community ministry, social justice efforts, and local development. In 1969, this collaboration led to shared worship and programs with United Methodist and Disciples congregations, eventually resulting in our current home and the name Rainbow Mennonite Church.
A defining part of our story is Sharing Community in Rosedale (SCR), a nonprofit formed in 1977 to support cooperative ministry and neighborhood services. Together, these partnerships helped establish programs such as food assistance, education services, youth programs, and the Whitmore Playground—now a lasting resource for the Rosedale community.
Today, we honor our roots as a mission-driven congregation and continue to serve Rosedale through faith, partnership, and community care.
Our Music
Organ
If our organ could speak, it would tell quite a story. Fortunately, our organ does speak volumes thanks to our many accomplished organists, including Dr. Roseann Penner Kaufman.
Choir
The Rainbow Choir is an enthusiastic and welcoming group that sings most Sundays from mid-September through April. Singers of all abilities are invited. Our music spans many styles—from Renaissance works to contemporary compositions—and is often supported by talented instrumentalists from the congregation. The choir’s role is to enrich worship and support the spoken word.
Rehearsals are held Wednesdays from 6:45–8:00 pm, with a shared meal and fellowship beginning at 6:15 pm.
Hymn Singing
A cappella hymn singing is a treasured part of worship at Rainbow. Each Sunday, the congregation sings at least one hymn in four-part harmony without accompaniment, continuing a Mennonite tradition that invites full participation and deep connection.
Rainbow Performing Arts Series
The Rainbow Performing Arts Committee hosts concerts and arts events throughout the year, featuring local and visiting performers. Our sanctuary’s warm, resonant acoustics create an intimate setting for music and theater.
Whitmore Playground
Across the street from the church is Whitmore Playground. It is maintained by the church and is equipped with playground equipment, basketball goals, picnic areas and several original art pieces. It is widely used by the church and community.
