Mennonite Church Manitoba

Transcription

1 2017 Report Book Volume 60 MCM Gathering 2018 Mennonite Church Manitoba March 2-3, 2018 Hosted by First Mennonite Church, Winnipeg, MB Living into our mission. Leadership Day - Friday, March 2 9:30am Sargent Avenue Mennonite Church, Winnipeg, MB Worship - Friday, March 2 7:00pm First Mennonite Church, Winnipeg, MB Business Sessions - Saturday, March 3 8:30am First Mennonite Church, Winnipeg, MB

2 First Mennonite Church First Mennonite Church of Winnipeg can trace its beginnings to the itinerant ministry of Benjamin Ewert of the Bergthaler Mennonite Church, who paid regular visits to Mennonites in Winnipeg starting around In August 1921, Ewert moved to Winnipeg and arranged for monthly worship services in facilities rented from the Zion Reformed Church on Alexander Avenue at Ellen. By the mid-1920s, recent Mennonite immigrants from the Soviet Union outnumbered the earlier Mennonites in Winnipeg. First Mennonite Church in Winnipeg was known as the Winnipeg Schoenwieser Mennonite church until 1951, a name chosen in honour of the Russian home village of Ältester Johann P. Klassen. Sometimes First Mennonite Church is considered the mother church of the Schoenwiese Mennonite Church group, because of its size and prominence within the group. The First Mennonite Church of Winnipeg first met in and later purchased the Zion Reformed Church building on Alexander Avenue. They built their own church building on Notre Dame at Alverston in This building was further expanded in 1958 and The language of worship was originally German. English was first used by some Sunday School teachers during the 1950s. Both English and German began to be used in the 1960s as the language of worship. The German Service ended recently. Today we are a multicultural community of faith which celebrates a diversity of perspectives. Music, education and the arts play an important role in the formation and expression of faith for us. We attempt to nurture the strengths of past traditions while exploring and blending new forms and expressions. At First Mennonite Church we hope to develop fellowship in the midst of the diversity. This diversity may be expressed in differing views and tastes or simply come as a result of our being spread throughout the city. Sources: and First Mennonite Church, Winnipeg 922 Notre Dame Ave, Winnipeg, MB 2 Mennonite Church Manitoba

3 Acronyms AMBS BFC CCBM CMU CwM DVBS EMC EMMC FDTF LM MBCM MBBS Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary Being a Faithful Church Church Community Building Ministry Canadian Mennonite University Camps with Meaning Daily Vacation Bible School Evangelical Mennonite Church Evangelical Mennonite Mission Conference Future Directions Task Force Leadership Ministries Mennonite Brethren Church of Manitoba Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary MCCanada Mennonite Church Canada MCCMB Mennonite Central Committee Manitoba MCM Mennonite Church Manitoba MCM Gathering Mennonite Church Manitoba Gathering MEDA Mennonite Economic Development Association MDS Mennonite Disaster Service MDS MB Mennonite Disaster Service Manitoba MLC Ministerial Leadership Committee MMC Manitoba Multifaith Council VS Voluntary Service YMF Youth Ministry Fellowship MCM Gathering March 2-3,

4 Table of Contents 71st Annual Gathering Program Foreword Vision and Mission Statement From the Moderator Executive Director Report Church Community Building Ministries Faith and Life Choirs Mission Ministry Leadership Ministries Pastor/Congregation Linkages Funds Spiritual Care Volunteers Minutes MCM Annual Gathering, March MCM Fall Gathering, November MCM Representatives to Related Organizations Related Organization Reports Abundance Canada (formerly Mennonite Foundation) Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary Bethania Group Canadian Mennonite Canadian Mennonite University Eden Health Care Services Manitoba Multifaith Council MennoMedia Mennonite Central Commitee Manitoba Mennonite Church Canada Mennonite Collegiate Institute Westgate Mennonite Collegiate Listing of MCM Staff/Board of Directors MCM Staff Photo Directory MCM Board Photo Directory The Clusters of MCM Mennonite Church Manitoba

5 71st Annual Gathering Program Friday, March 2, 2018 Leadership Day (at Sargent Ave. Mennonite Church, Winnipeg) 9:30am-4:00pm Theme: Motivating Change with Eric Stutzman MCM Community Gathers (at First Mennonite Church) 5:30 Registration 7:00-9:00pm Worship - All MCM members and friends invited. Singing, communion, remembering Saturday, March 3, :30 Call to order, Opening Worship 12:00 Lunch MCM Gathering March 2-3,

6 Foreword The staff of Mennonite Church Manitoba is pleased to work on your behalf. We have produced this report book to share with you some of the important highlights of the past year. Of course our work is more than just activities, it is also the communal desire to serve our God and present our faith in a way that promotes the gospel of Jesus Christ and builds the community. The reports contained in this book can never do complete justice to all that, however we hope that you can glean enough information from these pages to engage in important conversations about the directions we are headed, and the prayers that are needed. These reports and the ministries that they represent will be discussed in greater detail at our annual Gathering held in Winnipeg March 2-3. This year s Gathering will be hosted by First Mennonite Church 922 Notre Dame Avenue. The Friday evening worship will include a sermon by Brian Bauman from Mennonite Church Eastern Canada, good singing, a time of remembering and celebrating milestones in our lives, and communion. Our business sessions will take place Saturday and include reports about the new structure in Mennonite Church Canada. This report book includes information regarding the areas of ministry conducted by Mennonite Church Manitoba. We also have many sister organizations who we support and their report will be available online soon. The theme for this year s Gathering is Living into our Mission The MCM Board and staff look forward to the opportunity to discuss our ministry together as the Gathered Body in March. May the peace of Christ fill you as you prepare your hearts and minds for our meetings. Ken Warkentin, Executive Director Mennonite Church Manitoba 6 Mennonite Church Manitoba

7 Vision and Mission VISION Our vision is to be a community of congregations unified in Jesus Christ, living a biblical Anabaptist faith, together presenting Jesus Christ to the world. Our Vision is the ideal we want and hope to become. We see ourselves growing in size and faithfulness, and building up our community of churches. Our reason for being is our faith, lived and known and, specifically, articulated in the Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective. As a community, we will strengthen each other and our member congregations, to follow Jesus Christ and present Him to all people. MISSION Our mission is to resource and empower each other, and to facilitate spiritual growth, service and evangelism. To fulfill our mission, we are committed to ministries such as: proclaiming the gospel of Christ promoting Christian education planting and nurturing new congregations dialoguing and working with congregations, conferences and other denominations fostering relationships of mutual accountability calling, nurturing and providing leadership planning joint worship and faith celebrations Values COMMUNITY MCM is a covenant community whose sense of togetherness flows from common vision, understanding of scripture and confession of faith. Our commitment is to be together and to grow closer in love without insisting on uniformity. LOVE, CARE AND NURTURE God s message of love motivates us to nurture and care for others and each other. MUTUAL ACCOUNTABILITY MCM and member congregations are accountable to each other in matters of doctrine and discipleship. DOCTRINE All doctrine is grounded in the holy Word of God as found in the Bible. The core of our doctrine is articulated in the Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective. DISCERNMENT As a community and as individuals, we seek the will of God for the church through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, by searching scripture, discerning the culture and the times in which we live, and waiting patiently for God s revelation. DISCIPLESHIP We encourage churches and their members to be obedient disciples of Christ, living holy and God-honouring lives. EVANGELISM We proclaim and witness to the good news of salvation in Christ, and God s kingdom. SOCIAL CONCERN We reach out to, and walk with, people afflicted by poverty, conflict and injustice. PEACE We believe that peace is the will of God, and that we are called to live and work as Christian peace-makers. STEWARDSHIP We embrace the biblical message about the management of all we are and have been given under God s creation. as adopted at delegate Bethel Church, June 17, 1998 MCM Gathering March 2-3,

8 From the Moderator As this is my last annual report as moderator of Mennonite Church Manitoba having served in this role since November 2012, it will review significant developments from the past five and a half years. During this period Mennonite Church Manitoba has worked through several challenging processes with significant outcomes: After considerable controversy and anguish but also with optimism and deliberation we embarked on a revitalization of our camping ministries, though this required the sale of Camp Moose Lake, one of our beloved camp sites. On the other hand a regional support group for Camp Koinonia and a Camp Ministries Committee, have been activated with considerable authority to plan, operate and develop facilities and activities. An apartment block was renovated into Chiara House offering affordable housing in Winnipeg's core in conjunction with the Little Flowers Community and with immense contributions of volunteers in the building trades and in business. The Future Directions process coordinated at the national level of our denomination transfers several important functions from Mennonite Church Canada to the Regional Churches, involves several significant modifications to our constitution and staffing and specifically adopts a relational funding model for the support of our international ministries. One consequence of the down-sizing of the national church and the increase in regional church staffing is the recent move of our offices into the space hitherto used by Mennonite Church Canada at 600 Shaftesbury Blvd. The Being a Faithful Church process called for discussions and discernment at the personal, congregational, regional and national level, initially about our ways of interpreting the Bible, then about our understanding of sexuality and lastly about our readiness to make space for congregations which accept same-sex marriage. Regrettably, several congregations decided along the way that they could not remain members in our denomination. Subsequently we have agreed to set aside further deliberations at the Mennonite Church Manitoba level for three years. Undergirding these major developments are a range of ongoing ministries. Over the past five years valued staff and board members have served and then left but we are blessed by the continuing faithful leadership of Ken Warkentin, as Executive Director. After a positive review of Ken's service in 2017, the Board affirmed his continuing engagement, renamed his position as Executive Minister and added tending to the unity and faithfulness of Mennonite Church Manitoba to the responsibilities. Providing advice and support to ministers new or experienced and to congregations in their relationships to their pastor is one of the crucial and necessary tasks of Mennonite Church Manitoba. Many congregations and ministers have been assisted in finding one another and in relating to one another through tranquil as well as tense periods. In the past several years we have also responded to the crossing of ethical boundaries by several ministers credentialed by Mennonite Church Manitoba or pastoring in one of congregations. Addressing the turmoil and wounds has occupied much prayer, time, thought and effort by our staff, mostly away from public view. We regret the pain and harm caused by ministers from our circle and are committed to preventing harassment of more victims. Drawing upon and developing the gifts of the next generation of leaders as well as more experienced staff, our camping ministries have nurtured thousands of children, youth and adults with special needs in their faith, recreation and experience of nature. The annual Bridge-building events about current challenges in indigenous settler relationships do indeed build bridges to open hearts and minds. These events held at Thunderbird House attract the most diverse participation in age, in ethnicities and denominations of any event organized by Mennonite Church Manitoba. The Partnership Circles gatherings which bring together representatives from southern and northern communities are more intimate opportunties for bridge-building. The Faith and Life Choirs Women's and Men's repeatedly enhance our spirits and praise with concerts after many hours of rehearsing and travel. The Frohe Botschaft radio broadcasts do indeed bring the joyous message to listeners across southern Manitoba. Through a corps of dedicated volunteer chaplains those facing health challenges in hospitals are visited and consoled. 8 Mennonite Church Manitoba

9 The financial trend for Mennonite Church Manitoba has continued downward due to the departure of several congregations, the re-direction of funds to other ministries by some congregations and the decline in contributions by individual members to congregations. How our financial trajectory will emerge after the re-structuring of our denomination which shifts the flow of funding as well as ministry functions from the national to the regional church and after congregational decision-making is difficult to predict. Finally Mennonite Church Manitoba links its member congregations by representation to Mennonite Church Canada, seven inter-mennonite organizations and the Manitoba Multifaith Council, each of them engaged in valuable efforts in education and diaconal services. In seeking priorities for Mennonite Church Manitoba in the midst of these continuities and changes with surely more to come the staff and board has formulated seven priorities which it presents to the membership for consideration, modification and adoption at this Annual Gathering followed by joint implementation by congregations, staff and board: Congregational health Pastoral Support Disciples Formation Local and International Mission Advocacy and Education Wider Linkages Worship and Fellowship Serving as moderator during these eventful years has been challenging but also edifying and I conclude my tenure with gratitude and best wishes for our faith community. Peter Rempel, Moderator MCM Gathering March 2-3,

10 MCM Executive Director`s Report A long time ago the Apostle Paul wrote a letter to the church at Corinth and began this way: I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that has been given you in Christ Jesus, for in every way you have been enriched in him, in speech and knowledge of every kind just as the testimony of Christ has been strengthened among you so that you are not lacking in any spiritual gift as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ. He will also strengthen you to the end, so that you may be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful; by him you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. When I think of the members that make up the fellowship of Mennonite Church Manitoba I resonate with those words of gratitude. Week after week you have shown such resilience by showing up for worship and proclaiming your faith even in the face of a rapidly changing society. You have continued to be a blessing to your children, your neighbors, and your fellow Christians by living out your faith, and giving hands and feet to the Holy Spirit of God. I am so grateful to be a part of the Church that God has called together and I pray for the continued wisdom and energy to remain faithful to calling. This has been a year of change. For several years you have heard reports from the Future Directions Task Force. The task force recommended that we focus the energy of Area Churches on equipping and inspiring local congregations to engage rigorously on mission locally, regionally, and internationally. We also heard the recommendation that the focus of National Church be shifted to support Area Churches in their mission. This led to a reorganization of our denominational structure In October. Our vision remains the same. God calls us to be followers of Jesus Christ and, by the power of the Holy Spirit to grow as communities of grace, joy and peace so that God s healing and hope flow through us to the world. Our structure is not the only thing that has changed this year. We have also seen a significant change in our camping ministry program. After many years of considering our camping footprint in the province we sold Camp Moose Lake to the French School Division. We have also moved in the direction of engaging a local group to provide management for Camp Koinonia. We will continue to have Camp Koinonia and Camp Assiniboia for our summer program where we will share faith with hundreds of 10 Mennonite Church Manitoba campers (both children and adults with disabilities) and develop young leaders. In addition to that we have begun to develop some very exciting plans for the redevelopment of Camp Assiniboia. We have also moved our offices albeit not very far. We have moved into the main floor of the Mennonite Church Canada building on the CMU campus. Speaking of CMU, the shifts in the national structure also changed the relationship of CMU to the Church. Now the Prairie Mennonite Churches have been entrusted with CMU s connection to the Church. I am thrilled with the seriousness and creativity that CMU places on their relationship with the Church. One further change that I must report is the withdrawal of several congregations from our fellowship, and the closing of another. The Blumenort Mennonite Church, Niverville Community Fellowship, and Graysville Mennonite Church have chosen to end their longstanding relationship with Mennonite Church Manitoba and Canada. While I mourn this loss I also acknowledge that a great deal of prayer and passion went into these decisions. I also note the closing of the Rosenfeld Mennonite Church and the difficult conversations that were necessary to come to such a decision. Change frequently creates an atmosphere of instability. I have felt that in the past year, but as I look to the future I am filled with hope. In many ways the decisions and the changes we have gone through in the past year will be a blessing on which to build. I am grateful for the incredible staff of Mennonite Church Manitoba. I am also grateful for the hard work and dedication of the MCM Board and the various committees that do so much work on behalf of the church. As Paul has suggested we are the church and we are not lacking in any spiritual gift because we have been strengthened by our creator for service to the world. Thanks be to God! Respectfully submitted, Ken Warkentin Executive Director

11 Faith and Life Choirs church community builiding ministries Faith and Life Women's Chorus - Christmas 2016 Conductor: Janet Brenneman Pianist: Rebecca Klassen-Wiebe Faith and Life Male Choir - Christmas 2016 Conductor: Ben Pauls Pianist: Loren Hiebert The Faith and Life Choirs are a ministry of Mennonite Church Manitoba's Church Community Building Ministry. The mission is... to participate in the mission of the wider church by leading others into worship of God through music. The choirs sing in Sunday morning worship services; at Nursing Homes; present concerts and lead in songfests in Manitoba and beyond. The choirs have recorded numerous CD's, and provide music for the Frohe Botschaft radio program. Visit the Mennonite Church Manitoba website and find the choirs under `Programs`to watch video of the choirs in action. MCM Gathering March 2-3,

12 Mission Ministry Camps with Meaning Sustainability Camp Moose Lake and Camp Koinonia transition Over the past year, we have focused on some key objectives that will help secure long-term sustainability for our camping ministry. The first objective (which was outlined in the MCM Camp Mission: A Strategic Plan document that was presented in 2015), was to relinquish the management and/or ownership of Camp Moose Lake and Camp Koinonia in order to align ourselves with our fiscal & human resource realities, and move forward with the new vision for camping ministry and mission. As mentioned in the Executive Director s report, the sale of Camp Moose Lake was completed in September of 2017 and negotiations for the new management of Camp Koinonia are in its final stages. These transitions will impact our camping ministry in a number of different ways. On the financial front, the sale of Camp Moose Lake will free up some capital for facility development at Camp Assiniboia. Additionally, because the budget for camping ministry will now be more in line with what the conference can afford, we will be able to confidently project and plan around our budget in coming years. We are hopeful that these transitions will impact our summer staff & volunteer programs as well. Over the years (the last decade at least) our summer staff and volunteer programs have become increasingly difficult to maintain due to changing demographics and competing opportunities. While initially, we had hoped to sell Camp Moose Lake to an MCM-affiliated group so that we could continue to run our summer program there; this was not, in the end, possible. Although we deeply feel the loss of this camp and are grateful for the many years of ministry there, we see new opportunities for Camp Moose Lake volunteers and staff. There s an old adage that says, When one door closes, another opens. The doors at both Camp Assiniboia and Koinonia are wide open. We would therefore like to extend a heartfelt message to all who worked and volunteered at Camp Moose Lake thank you for your years of love, service and support, what you offer has been invaluable to our ministry. We ask that you prayerfully consider joining us again this summer at one of our other locations. We would love to have you. A second objective for long-term sustainability relates to our camper registration rates. In the past, when determining rates we have subscribed to the idea of making camp 12 Mennonite Church Manitoba affordable for everyone. In order to do so we have kept our prices low and have relied on the conference to subsidize any shortfall. At the Gathering in 2017 we presented an alternative model based on the idea of making camp fair for everyone by increasing our rates to a level that most can still afford while providing discounts to families who apply through our Campership Fund. These changes will come into effect in We have worked hard to ensure that the application process for the Campership Fund is simple and easy to apply for. Families can qualify for up to a 30% reduction depending on their annual household income and the number of children they send to camp. Beginning in 2018, all proceeds from our annual fundraising banquets will be used to support the Campership Fund. Camp Governance Another recommendation from the strategic plan was to assemble a governing body to oversee and implement our camping ministry s vision, program and operations. As such, in January of 2017 a Camp Committee was formed. In addition to the many every-day issues that this committee engages in the committee is working on several initiatives including: phase 1 of the capital campaign for Camp Assiniboia, the fundraising strategy, the establishment of a Camp Rep program with MCM congregations and This Ground - a working and worshipping community that gathers at Camp Assiniboia (approximately every two weeks) to worship, work, have a meal together and enjoy the natural world that God has created. For more information on This Ground go to or call our camp office. The Camp Committee will be facilitating a workshop at the Annual Gathering in 2018 to talk about these initiatives and more so please come out and join us! Partnership Circles When people and congregations engage in the work of reconciliation, transformation begins to happen quite Games at Matheson Island with Springfield Heights Mennonite.

13 mission ministry simply because reconciliation is at the heart of the gospel and God s desire for the world. Some of these transformations are small (a simple epiphany, a new friendship, a new insight or spiritual conviction) while other transformations are big resulting in wide-spread social changes or changes in legislation & law. In both big and small ways, when we allow the Spirit to lead us in the work of reconciliation, love grows and our resolve for change deepens and draws us ever closer to each other and God. This past year has been a transforming year for many: we have fasted, prayed, walked (some for hundreds of miles), we have listened, shared, pursued relationships and sought to learn more. While it is exciting to think of where this could all lead, Pauingassi Family Camp with Grace Mennonite, Steinbach the journey itself is one to cherish. Ministry Circles This past summer 10 congregations from northern and southern Manitoba coordinated DVBS and summer camp programs in the communities of Riverton, Matheson Island, Manigotagan, Cross Lake and Pauingassi. During this time new friendships were formed while old friendships picked up where they left off and many, many children had fun, played together and heard stories of God s love. During this time, discussions were also held with leaders in four of the five communities to discuss the possibility of developing a leadership program for the youth and young adults from their communities. While the conversations were affirming further planning is required both in terms of financing and program. tion and implementation of the United Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People through bill C-262. Events We have also co-sponsored a number of events this year including: 146: Pathways to Treaty Relations Treaty 1 was signed 146 years ago at Lower Fort Garry. On June 25th over 100 people came out to Lower Fort Garry to learn more about Treaty 1 and its invitation to share the land for the benefit of all living things. To view the workshops led by Allen Sutherland and Jennifer Preston and to view other events of the day go to Let s Walk the Talk Over 160 Winnipeggers walked 12 kilometers to the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation to encourage each other in the work of reconciliation and to urge the Canadian government to fully adopt and implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. After the march, an evening gathering was held with stories and performances by Ray Coco Stevenson, Ry Moran direct of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, Leonard Sumner, Shahina Siddiqui and others. God s Mission to Gather and Spur...Stories of Faith, Works and Reconciliation This was a day of sharing and stories led by members of our Circles who reflected on their engagements with reconciliation as well as guest speakers Viv Ketchum who reflected on her experiences at Cecelia Jeffery Indian Residential School and artist storyteller Bob Haverluck who uses the arts to engage issues of conflict and violence against the earth and her creatures. If you are interested in participating in any of our Partnership Circles or would like information on upcoming events, please contact Dorothy Fontaine dfontaine@mennochurch.mb.ca. Other Circles Other circles or ways that MCM congregations are engaging are related to Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women Girls (MMIWG), water justice, and the adop- Dorothy Fontaine Director of Mission MCM Gathering March 2-3,

14 mission ministry Summer Program Report Bible Curriculum and Theme Song Our Bible curriculum for summer 2017 was titled Discipleship: Come and See. Written by Nadya Langelotz and Raya Cornelsen with support from a small group of experienced individuals, the curriculum s focus Scripture text came from Matthew 28:18-20: And Jesus came and said to them, All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age. The daily lessons explored who Jesus was and is, how we are called to use our gifts to be like Jesus and share the good news, and how discipleship can be hard and even disappointing, but always worth it. be pulled together to dream and to plan and to write a new curriculum and theme song. That we continue to write our own material and music every year is truly a blessing! Summer Program This summer we had a total 744 campers come through our programs. Almost 550 children and youth from grades 1 through 12, including 21 integration campers, as well as more than 200 adults with mental and physical challenges experienced a week at one of our camps. Some of their highlights were climbing and zip-lining, watersports, animals of varying sizes, spending lots of time outdoors and a night in a tent or under the stars. Campers of all ages and abilities were able to learn and grow in their faith through hearing Bible stories and skits, singing and praying together, and through conversations with their cabins and counsellors. They also learned and grew in other ways challenging themselves and trying new things, making new friends, experiencing a small taste of independence. We are grateful we are able to provide space for these experiences and to see campers grow in so many ways. As usual, in spring we held a songwriting workshop at which present and past staff worked together to create a song reflecting our Bible theme. This has become an integral part of our curriculum and our worship over the years, and we now have quite a list of Camps with Meaning songs that reflect our Anabaptist theology and the camp worshipping community. This year s song, I am the Bread of Life, incorporates a number of Jesus I am statements, invitations to take a chance and come and follow, a chorus that acknowledges the disappointment and difficulties of pursuing a life of discipleship, while ending with the challenge to tell the nations. Lyrics, chords and recordings of all of our songs can be found at This summer s overarching theme is Peace. A small group including pastors, teachers, theologians and staff will As we look to the summer ahead of us, we recognize that Camps with Meaning will look a little different this year. We said farewell to Moose Lake in fall, and recognize that that has been difficult for many of our campers, staff, and supporters. Along with that, the move to two camps brings some uncertainty about the effect it might have on our staff and camper numbers in the coming year. However, we are very excited to be planning a full summer of camping at Koinonia, with its wilderness focus, and to be continuing 14 Mennonite Church Manitoba

15 mission ministry to explore and grow in our farm program and day camp at Assiniboia. Our hope is that our Moose Lake campers will be open to exploring our other locations, knowing that the program is much the same, and the staff are awesome at every site! Retreats Throughout the spring, fall, and winter months Camps with Meaning was also able to support some very wonderful retreats. In February we held a retreat for our ADV (adults with disabilities) campers at Camp Assiniboia. Nicolien Klassen-Wiebe directed the retreat, and Nadya Langelotz provided the Bible lessons and many of our senior summer staff volunteered to make this a meaningful time for the 22 participants. In May we had 33 people of all ages head out to Camp Moose Lake and the surrounding area for a birding retreat directed by Dieter Schonwetter. This year they introduced a mentoring opportunity for new birders, and discovered they also had experts in flora and butterflies along! Boat excursions, a night walk, stories from Al Schritt, and a reflective worship time Saturday night featuring beautiful photography were among the many highlights. And then in November we held a Sabbath retreat for our summer staff at Camp Assiniboia, which included a The following is the 2017 Leadership Staff: Assiniboia Leadership Summer Program Directors: Olivia Wiebe & Owen Baerg Bible Instructor: Michael Wiebe Nature Instructor: Anna Epp Koinonia/Moose Lake Leadership Summer Program Directors: Jonathan Pankratz & Lara Penner-Goeke Bible Instructor: Nadya Langelotz Nature Instructor: Bri Hildebrand Guest Directors/Specialty Instructors Koinonia Youth Week: Shawn Klassen-Koop Art Specialty Camp: Erna Peters Wilderness Specialty Camp : Matthew Sawatzky Extreme Ropes Specialty Camp: Brianna Wiebe Farm Camps: Emily Dueck & Anna Epp Day Camp & Teen Volunteer Program Day Camp Director: Lindsey Pankratz Day Camp Bible Instructor: Selenna Hildebrand Servant Leaders in Training (SLT) Program SLT Directors: Erin Froese & Alex Friesen Integration Coordinator: Janet Peters Guest Bible Speakers Moose Lake Youth Camp: Karl Enns Koinonia Youth Camp: Moses Falco Assiniboia Girls-Only: Raya Cornelsen MCM Gathering March 2-3,

16 mission ministry meaningful time of farewell for Shawn Klassen-Koop and welcome for myself as we transitioned out of and into the role of Associate Program Director. 16 staff, including some SLTs, leadership and staff of all ages in between, had a lovely time of rest and relaxation as we played outdoors, puzzled, worshipped, and caught up with each other s lives. All of these retreats are planned to continue in Our 72 staff of young people put in time and effort and love to make each week the best week of camp for our campers. It is always a privilege to work alongside these young leaders and to watch them grow into leaders and Staff and Volunteers disciples, each using their gifts at camp and being encouraged to use those gifts in the wider church and world as well. Camp provides an important space for testing of calls and giftings, and for challenges and growth in faith. We continued the practice of having two leadership teams this past year, and were blessed to have a healthy mix of returning and new members of those teams. The leadership staff have a crucial role in organizing and implementing the program, but also in mentoring and leading the staff body. They did not disappoint, and continue to impress and inspire all of us who surround them. This summer we had more than 220 staff and volunteers working with us to make our summer camp program possible. The more than 150 volunteers who gave of their time and talents in the kitchen, on maintenance, as pastors and as health officers were not only essential to the running of our program, but also to the beauty and richness of our camp community. We often focus on the young people working at camp, but the intergenerational nature of camp is also an incredible gift. Older volunteers are given the gift of seeing the younger generation in action, while the support and experience of the older generation is a blessing to our younger leaders. A heartfelt thank you to all who gave the gifts of time and presence to our camping ministry this past summer. We invite all of you to come back or consider coming for the first time this coming summer! We appreciated working with the Urban Stables group to make the horse program at Assiniboia a fun, educational and safe activity this past summer. They provided knowledgeable staff and volunteers from their year-round program, which runs out of the Assiniboia barn, and worked well with the summer directors and our wranglers to provide a great program that balanced care for the horses with fun for the campers. We look forward to continuing to partner with them in the future. Janet Peters CwM Assoc. Program Director 16 Mennonite Church Manitoba

17 Leadership Ministries We live in times of change! This is certainly not new to us as we experience change in all areas of life! Although change can bring anxiety and fear to any situation, it can also work to bring about joy in finding better ways of growing. The Leadership Ministries of MCM have experienced significant change this past year due in large part to the organizational and structural changes of Mennonite Church Canada. These changes mark a shift in the way we do our work together as well as determining the ways in which we interact with one another in the future. Albeit challenging, I believe that this is an exciting opportunity for the Church. I am filled with God s hope for a bright future! I highlight the current scene for Mennonite Church Manitoba (MCM) credentialed ministers: As the chart above indicates, approximately half of our credentialed pastors have reached retirement. Some are actively involved in their local congregation assisting in a variety of ways. Some spend time in Interim ministry and helping congregations during times of pastoral transition. Others are involved in volunteer assignments and offer their skills and experience as a resource to other pastors! This past October, a retreat was held at Camp Assiniboia for retired pastors and spouses. The central theme was AGING: RESILIENCY, HOPE AND TRUST with Heather Campbell-Enns as our presenter. Appreciation was expressed and a strong endorsement to continue gatherings of this nature. Approximately seventy (70) ministers or just under half of all MCM credentialed ministers are actively engaged as congregational Pastors. Beyond the regular routine of congregational/pastoral life, each pastor connects with a local cluster group designated for their particular area. We have five (5) clusters spread across MCM and each cluster meets every 4-6 weeks generally. I am grateful for the ways that connect and strengthen our relationships as well as opportunities for enhancing our ministry together. Below are other ways that Pastors have connected and been resourced over this past year: ReNew 2017 This 2 ½ day seminar is an annual event held at CMU and seeks to inspire, equip and celebrate the gifts of pastoral ministry by gathering to learn from one another. Prayer retreat a one day retreat at Camp Assiniboia in May invited Pastors to reflect on Letting Go Resting Garnering strength Our facilitator for this day was Karen Martens- Zimmerly MC Canada Denominational Leader. MCM New Pastor Orientation Day I find reason to celebrate the new faces among us. This past year we had six (6) pastors begin who had not pastored in MCM congregations prior. A one day orientation provided time for conversation around questions of protocol, resources that are available to Pastors as well as some historical background of MCM. It is certainly an important day and I hope to run this every year or as the need may arise! Begin Anew numerous Pastors took advantage of the opportunity to meet and talk with Palmer Becker describe the Begin Anew instructional material that seeks to invite congregations to consider our faith discipleship through means of belonging, believing, becoming and behaving. Resources are available from CommonWord. CHAPLAINCY: Although a thin slice of the pie, MCM is fortunate to have people serving in chaplaincy roles across the province. They are people who carry the Mennonite Church and are also credentialed minsters with MCM. A spiritual presence at the University of Manitoba is an amazing gift to the community and we are so very grateful that Mark von Kampen is extending spiritual care and ministry to students in numerous and significant ways. We give thanks for the ministry that continues to thrive! Our Hospital Chaplaincy is alive, active and well (see report). Peter Dyck continues to serve as the Spiritual Care Coordinator. The volunteer visitors come from a variety of church backgrounds and they meet monthly (except summer months) at MCM office for support, resourcing and encouragement. The care that is offered to patients at hospitals or residents of personal care homes is extremely valuable and I frequently hear stories and testimonies that express thanks and appreciation to those who provide care with intentional gentleness and sensitivity. SPECIALIZED MINISTRY: According to our church polity described in A Shared Understanding of Church Leadership, this particular ministry includes persons who may not sense a personal call to ordained ministry but who are called from within MCM Gathering March 2-3,

18 leadership ministries the congregation to serve in a specific leadership assignment. These positions could be that of church planters, chaplaincy, area-church and national-church staff. This particular credential is time specific, location specific, or ministry role specific. During this past year, three (3) SM credentials expired due in part to MC Canada changes. Aryln Friesen-Epp serves as Manager at CommonWord Bookstore under this particular credential. CREDENTIALING: Congregations often ask questions about credentials of Pastors. They ask about the purpose and who should be ordained? They ask questions about theological understanding and biblical foundation! They ask about the procedure and in general, congregations inquire about what a good process involves. These are good questions and the conversations that follow will often result in expressing delight for the good of and protection of the church and those to whom the church ministers. In short, ministerial credentialing has been developed by the church to identify those called to special roles of ministerial leadership in and for the church. Its purpose is not to elevate persons to a special status but to affirm who they are by God s grace, to grant to them the church s office of ministry, and to invite them to continuing forms of accountability for the unique and special roles which they serve among us. 18 Mennonite Church Manitoba IN BRIEF: PASTOR ACTIVITY The Ministerial Leadership Committee is an appointed body within MCM constituency. Among its numerous tasks, one of the most significant responsibilities is the credentialing of Ministers. I deeply value this work that we share together and I express my thanks for each member of the committee. Members of the MLC are: John Braun (Chair), Rudy Franz, Dan Nighswander, Brenda Penner, Harold Schlegel. Thanks to Heather Campbell-Enns for her service up until this past October. IN ADDITION: Further involvements of Leadership Ministries include the following: Partnering together with local MCM Youth Groups in hosting a special event at Douglas Mennonite Church with guest actor/comedian Ted Swartz entitled: Laughter as Sacred Space The purpose of this event was to give attention to Mental Health issues and to assist in facilitating an opportunity for talking openly and honestly about these struggles. Proceeds from this event were designated to Eden Mental Health for continued resources. Financial assistance was distributed to applicants 6 New Pastors to MCM 9 Ministers who concluded ministry 3 Ministers who were credentialed 1 Credentials withdrawn 5 Interim Pastors 2 Credentials Transferred 3 Credentials that expired (License for Specific Ministry) through two bursary funds that Leadership Ministries administers. Both the A.G Neufeld Minister and Missionary Education Fund and the Jake and Dorothy Pauls Pastoral Leadership Fund continue to provide financial gifts to students who are pursuing education and training for leadership within the church. (see separate report for additional information) The Support and Accountability Group (SAG) was established in 2014 following the criminal charges laid against Marco Funk. Over the past 3 years, the SAG has met dozens of times. This past May they met with the membership of the Gretna Bergthaler Mennonite Church. This special meeting gave opportunity for members to hear and respond to the journey that the SAG has travelled with Marco. The meeting provided an opportunity for healing while also acknowledging the deep pain that exists both personally and corporately. LOOKING AHEAD: As Anabaptist followers of Jesus Christ, we have immense opportunities to thrive and grow as we put our faith to work. I note only a few opportunities: Continuing to attract new people to the good news of Jesus Christ from an Anabaptist perspective Demonstrating love for God and our neighbor by embracing Creation Care, maintaining this planet as a hospitable place for people to live, work and play Building on the strong convictions of millennials and other young leaders for transparency, vulnerability, and desire to put our spiritual values to work in the struggle for healthy human relationships Putting our faith into action on social issues that dominate our national news, demonstrating within our own communities what we advocate for others Cultivating our hope in God and nurturing our spiritual disciplines by looking to God as our source of salvation, strength and hope Rick Neufeld Dir. of Leadership Ministries

19 Associate Director of Leadership Ministries Report leadership ministries Grateful to God for our life together, Kathy Giesbrecht Assoc. Dir. of Leadership Ministries MCM Gathering March 2-3,

20 leadership ministries Pastor - Congregation Linkages MCM PASTORAL PLACEMENTS: (Congregation) (Name) (Position) (Date) Carman Mennonite Paul Dueck Interim Pastor Jan-Apr 18 Douglas Mennonite Dale Friesen Youth & YA Pastor August Glenlea Mennonite Cheryl Braun Interim Pastor Sept-Aug 18 Home Street Mennonite Melissa Miller Intentional Interim July-June 18 Morden Mennonite Kristy Hosler Youth Pastor January North Kildonan Mennonite Marvin Thiessen Lead Pastor October Springfield Heights Menn. Jose-Luis Moraga Associate Pastor January of Discipleship Springstein Mennonite Randy Hildebrand Lead Pastor May Steinbach Mennonite Lee Hiebert Lead Pastor August CONCLUDING ASSIGNMENTS: (Congregation) (Name) (Position) (Date) Carman Mennonite Bob Pauls Pastor August Douglas Mennonite Paul Loewen Youth Pastor August Glenlea Mennonite Dale Friesen Lead Pastor July Graysville Mennonite Church Laurie Redpath Pastor April Hope Mennonite Church Clare Schellenberg Associate Pastor December Home Street Mennonite Terry Martens-Zimmerly Lead Pastor May North Kildonan Mennonite Tim Wenger Pastor for Faith July Formation North Kildonan Mennonite Franz Wiebe Interim Pastor September Steinbach Mennonite Victor Kliewer Interim Pastor July CREDENTIALING CHANGES: (Congregation) (Name) (Credential) (Date) Riverton Fellowship Circle Samuel Bergen Licensed toward Ordination June Springfield Heights Mennonite Rafael Duerksen Ordination September Springfield Heights Mennonite Jose-Luis Moraga Licensed toward Ordination September Grace Mennonite (Winkler) Herb Franz withdrawn October License for Specific Ministry Dori Zerbe Cornelson Gordon Janzen Dan Dyck Expired Expired Expired 20 Mennonite Church Manitoba

21 Abram G. Neufeld Minister And Missionary Education Fund leadership ministries Jake And Dorothy Pauls Pastoral Leadership Training Fund The goal of the Abram G. Neufeld Minister and Missionary Education Fund is to provide financial support to pastors and missionaries who would like to further their training. Leadership Ministries administrates the proceeds of this fund. We also attempt to invest in the fund as possible. We invite your donations. If we can build the invested amount, it will be possible to help more pastors and missionaries. Your gifts are an investment in people preparing for Kingdom work. We d love to hear from you. Each year we are able to award bursaries based on the earnings of the fund. Since the monies have been invested in mutual funds (administered by Mennonite Foundation of Canada), the amount varies from year to year. The earnings are made available to us in mid-june. In 2017, we received earnings in the amount of $3264 from Mennonite Foundation of Canada. Based on the applications we received, we were able to make awards to two deserving applicants: Rianna Isaak in the amount of $1,250, Ken Quiring in the amount of $1000, and Valerii Alipova in the amount of $750. The unused funds were re-invested. Applications received by June, , will be considered. If you would like to apply for the Abram G. Neufeld Bursary Jake and Dorothy Pauls Pastoral Leadership Training Fund, Johann Funk Memorial Fund in 2018, please contact MCM Leadership Ministries to receive guidelines and an application form. Donations are welcome. The idea for this fund grew out of a vision of Jake Pauls that the training of pastors should be given high priority in the Mennonite Church. The purpose of this fund, therefore, is to support leadership training for people who are called to pastoral ministry and who are in a program of studies with an Anabaptist/Mennonite focus. Those who apply are eligible for up to $2, per year dependent on the earnings of the fund. Monies are invested with Mennonite Foundation of Canada and are administered by Mennonite Church Manitoba. In 2017, we received earnings in the amount of $1, Based on the application we received, we were able to make an award to: Andrea de Avila in the amount of $1000. The unused funds were re-invested. If you would like to apply for this fund in 2018, please contact MCM Leadership Ministries to receive guidelines and an application form. Applications received by June 1, 2018 will be considered. Johann Funk Memorial Fund The Johann Funk Memorial fund provides interest free loans to students who desire theological training. An applicant may borrow up to a maximum of $1, per year and make a maximum of two consecutive loans. (Since the fund is quite small, we cap the total loan for any one student at $3,000.00). In 2017, we did not receive any applications and we did not make any loans. If you would like to apply for a Johann Funk loan in 2018, please contact Leadership Ministries. Applications received by August 1, 2018, will be considered. MCM Gathering March 2-3,

22 leadership ministries Spiritual Care Report 2017 Rachel Naomi Remen in the book My Grandfather s Blessings" writes A blessing is not something one person gives another. Initially, one could take exception to such a claim. After a visit, one frequently confers a blessing, often using Numbers 6, or saying The Lord bless you. When the person receiving the blessing is deeply moved with tearful eyes something of significance has transpired. There is a sacred moment" when the person visited shows such stirring emotions. It makes one wonder what happens in evoking such heartfelt feelings. Remen continues A blessing is a moment of meeting, a certain kind of relationship in which people involved remember and acknowledge their true nature and worth. We enable people to remember who they are and where they belong When we offer our blessings generously, the light of the world is strengthened, around us and in us. Thank you for your prayerful support in this service to our fellow human family. We are: Michele Barr (we welcome Michele who is serving at Pembina Place), Yvonne Snider Nighswander (Health Science), Hermann Dueck (Concordia Village), May Winters (Union Gospel), Henry Neufeld (Indigenous People), Rick Neufeld (Leadership Ministry), Don Plett (Miscercordia), Selma Pauls (Bethania), Lois Litz (Lindenwood Manor and Terrace), Hilda Franz (Altona), Arthur Driedger (Pembina Place), Peter Dyck (Selkirk ). Thanks to Anne Guenther for her years with us. If you feel the Spirit leading you to serve in this capacity or would like to nudge someone else to be blessed in serving, please contact Peter Dyck at kcdjrtp@mymts.net Visitation provides the opportunity for people to remember. 1 John 3 emphatically declares We are children of God. Hence we belong to God, to the body of Christ. We need to be reminded of this, we need to remember who we are in Christ. Remen states that people who bless and serve find a place of belonging and strength. Blessing life moves us closer to each other. When people are blessed they discover that their lives matter, that there is something in them worthy of blessing. AND when you bless others, you may discover this same thing is true about yourself. Truly, visiting the sick and lonely is a blessing for both the person being visited and the visitor. A blessing is mutual. Peter Dyck Spiritual Care Coordinator 22 Mennonite Church Manitoba

23 70th Annual Gathering March 3-4, 2017 Host Congregation: Emmanuel Mennonite Church, Winkler, MB 8:30 Call to order Moderator Peter Rempel called the meeting to order at 8:37 am. Opening worship Ken Warkentin led an opening meditation based on 1 Corinthians 13. Host pastor John Klassen lit the Christ candle. 9:00 Review agenda Moderator added review and acceptance of minutes to the agenda. Motion to accept the agenda. M/S Colleen Edmunds/Earl Reimer. Carried. Parliamentarian is Harold Peters Fransen. Tellers are Pearl Braun Dyck, Ken Kroeker, and Garry Bueckert. Quorum was met with 34 congregations represented and 131 delegates present. Resolutions Delegates were asked to bring any resolution for consideration to an MCM board member to be addressed. Review minutes Motion to accept the minutes of the 2016 annual gathering. M/S Don Peters Small/Abe Bergen. Carried. Board actions Two membership meetings took place in January to discuss BFC7 at Fort Garry Mennonite Fellowship and Morden Mennonite Church. Moderator clarified statements he made at these meetings. At Fort Garry Mennonite Fellowship, moderator stated belief that it would be a sin to divide over this issue; moderator clarified to the delegate body that he felt it was a sin on behalf of both those who stay and those who leave the conference. At the Morden Mennonite Church gathering, moderator stated that diving would be a sin but imposing a conviction on others a graver sin. Moderator clarified his position that an amicable division would be favourable to imposing unity. Moderator noted that MCM s constitution outlines a process for churches to terminate membership; a departing church may choose whether to participate in this process. In the absence of clear guidelines emerging from the conversations noted above, the MCM board has not recommended specific actions at this time but rather formulated a report to summarize MCM s processing of BFC7. Nominations The Nominations Committee includes Bob Wiebe, Ken Kroeker, and Alisa Wiebe. Chair Bob Wiebe encouraged delegates to provide nominations to the committee in future. MCM board member nominees include: Alex Tiessen, Katrina Woelk, Colleen Edmunds, and Richard Klassen. Nominees for appointed positions include Brenda Penner and Harold Schlegel for Ministerial Leadership Committee; Ken Reddig, Canadian Mennonite Publishing Service Provincial Representative; Kevin Drudge, MCC Manitoba; Laura Unger, Mary Penner, Dustin Loewen, and James Schellenberg, Eden Health Care Services; and Eric Rempel to MC Canada Nominating Committee. There is vacancy in the elected position of MCM board central cluster representative and the appointed position of MDS board representative. 9:15 Future Directions Report Executive Director Ken Warkentin reported material for feedback on behalf of Keith Regehr, Church Transition Coordinator. A final proposal will be presented for action at the MC Canada assembly in October 2017.

24 minutes of 70th annual gathering. march 2017 The 5 emphases highlighted in the working document include: 1. A vision of healing and hope: This vision has guided MC Canada since 1985; the Future Directions Task Force recommends it be upheld. 2. Vitality of congregations: Emphasis is placed on congregations as the central place for worship, ministry, and mission. 3. Vitality of regional churches: Regional churches offer opportunity for learning, shared mission and ministry. The regional church role is to strengthen congregations and church leaders. The proposed model outlines the flow of funds given by churches to the denominational structure through the regional church to ensure the regional church has the resources needed to fulfill its role. 4. National church vitality: The role of the national church is envisioned as working through regional churches to strengthen congregations. The purpose of the national church is to foster a sense of national peoplehood. Shifts include those of governance structure, international witness, and national priorities identified by regional churches. Governance will be structured through a national board made up of regional church moderators plus 6 other members chosen at delegate meetings. 5. International witness: The structure of international witness will change and is impacted by the growing maturity of the global church, financial constraints, and desires of congregations for direct involvement with mission. A working group is developing ideas to be presented at the October Special Assembly. The full Proposal for Revitalizing MC Canada is available on the Future Directions website. Executive Director Ken Warkentin opened up floor conversation with two questions: What aspirations and concerns do you have with this report? And, what would you like to communicate to those leading this transition? Floor conversation: C. Mark Thiessen Dyck, Sargent Ave MC Mark shared a comment on behalf of Karl and Marla Langelotz who are serving with MC Canada in Germany for a 10-month period. They serve at the Friedenshaus Project where over 100 refugees participate in language classes. The project provides opportunities for refugees and German natives to build positive relationship. Karl and Marla share that if financial support is not possible for long-term workers, it will be important to consider carefully what short-term missions we engage in. Mark testified to good work happening through their ministry and encouraged more deliberation on changes to international witness. Q. Julie Derksen, Charleswood MC I understand that the original 2-year transition period has been shortened for a variety of reasons. Can you describe the consultation process that took place with congregations? How will changes to international witness affect church budgets? For example, Charleswood currently supports 2 witness worker families by forwarding funds to MC Canada. How will these families be impacted by the changes in conference structure? A. Willard Metzger, MC Canada Executive Director With regards to the consultation process, conversations with area churches and the Emerging Voices Initiative have been helpful. s have been sent to congregations with updates on the transition process and constituents are invited to visit the MC Canada website. Early on in the process, little feedback came back from congregations in response to materials distributed by the taskforce. There has been some breakdown in communication between the taskforce and constituents. In regard to the international witness work, it is imperative that congregations continue to support current structures at their current level. The funding is needed for the transition to occur well. The new framework for international witness work is yet to be determined. A working group has been asked to consider possibilities of what relational funding requirements might look like for witness workers. The transition timeframe is yet to be determined. C. Don Rempel Boschmann, Douglas MC, chair of the international witness working group The working group has identified stakeholders including: witness partners around the world, local congregations, young adults, missiologists, theologians, and other Mennonite agencies to consult with during the deliberation process. Area churches will send out an online survey to congregational leaders. A link to the survey will also be provided on the Future Directions facebook page and website for anonymous participation by constituents. The interim council will review the models presented and recommendations of the working group to determine a recommendation to be presented to the delegate body. Delegates may 24 Mennonite Church Manitoba

25 minutes of 70th annual gathering. march 2017 contact Don to provide direct feedback to the working group. Q. Ray Hamm, Altona MC We hear on the news of many big changes and uncertainty occurring for our neighbours in the South, and changes may be coming here. MC Canada and MCM are encouraging the people to take initiative and I want to suggest that the church is at a critical point. Is there any task force that will somehow ignite a spark at the congregational level? A. Don Rempel Boschmann, Douglas MC I don t know if I want to ignite a spark for restructuring. I remember the MCC New Wineskins process; I didn t participate and I don t know that others in my congregation participated. We recognized that we didn t have knowledge to contribute much to the conversation but supported the process because we were excited about MCC. Working groups want to contact people who are already excited and passionate about these topics. I think we want to light the spark for witness work not for the working group or restructuring. A. Ken Warkentin I think part of the answer is in an aspect of the Future Directions Taskforce Report, which was the establishment of the congregation of ministerial leadership, a group including all pastors and lay pastors from area churches. We want to gather this group together for worship, discernment, and storytelling. Due to financial struggles in more congregations, I anticipate that lay leadership will become more important in the future and I think it s a good thing. We need to be able to gather these people together to reinforce theology, teach pastoral skills, and discern together. I think that s one place where the spark can be ignited. C. Harold Schlegel, MCI I want to affirm what I see here. I love the vision, healing, and hope emphasis. I love the call for us to grow as communities of grace, love, and peace. I affirm the invitation Ken extended to hear from churches about what God is doing in their community. I suggest stories from individual congregations continue to be included in future meetings. Harold affirmed the covenant to keep Jesus at the centre of our faith. Q. Laurie Redpath, Graysville MC A follow up to Ray Hamm s question: What ignites our young families in the local community? Ours is the only young family in the church. We hear interest in faith and serving in the community of Graysville but it seems very uncertain how a movement toward lay leadership would be led. Are Mennonite young people invested in churches? Q. Henry Loewen, Fort Garry Mennonite Fellowship We read that the national church is the place where the regional churches define and give life to the church. What implication does this statement have for regional church staff? A. Ken Warkentin I am deeply grateful for MCM staff. We anticipate that some staff responsibilities will change. We will need to take on some additional responsibilities relating to capacity and cost savings. We want to work collaboratively with the national church on communications, finances, and policy. For example, one area church may focus specifically on finance. It s not envisioned that MCM staffing will change dramatically but we may need to take on different roles and work more collaboratively with other regional churches. Q. Wes Goertzen, Whitewater MC One of the problems that I see is that everything is being downloaded further down the road. There has been some loss of trust. I don t think that we have the expertise or desire at the congregational level to handle more information. It feels like we re following mainstream culture by trusting no one but the independent self. I wonder why we haven t had a committee call us to prayer and fasting. Why wasn t spiritual practice prescribed? It s not fair to ask anyone to ignite the spark; it s Jesus Christ who gives us that spark. C. Harold Peters Fransen, Elim MC Harold highlighted that one of the implications of the new model was that the relationship with Canadian Mennonite University would be relegated from MC Canada to area churches. A. Ken Warkentin Yes, this was one implication in the Future Directions Task Force report. There is a task group focused on higher education; everyone in this group understands that CMU is the one Mennonite postsecondary school with an intentional national reach. I want to ensure that CMU continues to have a national reach even if it primarily supported in the prairie provinces. Q. Dave Bergen, Bethel MC Where is theological leadership for our national sense of identity and direction to be lodged within the new model? My sense is that it s intended to be lodged with the congregation of ministerial leadership, but how that intersects with the administrative oversight of our churches and the role our bodies of higher education play MCM Gathering March 2-3,

26 minutes of 70th annual gathering. march 2017 is not clear. What is the relationship between the congregation of ministerial leadership and our bodies of higher education relating to national administrative oversight? A. Ken Warkentin Over the last several years, gatherings have taken place together with administration of the three supported schools plus AMBS to address these questions together around the table. With regards to the first question, the congregation of ministerial leadership will have direct impact on administrative oversight through the regional church. One might ask how the current Faith and Life committee does this? They work through the board and staff. C. Dave Bergen, Bethel MC For quite some time there has been a tension regarding who speaks on behalf of the church theologically. We have an Executive Minister who is charged to be a bishop, yet publically the Executive Director is asked to speak on behalf of the church. I m hoping that the structural changes will better clarify this role. Q. Adam Robinson, Douglas MC Can we afford to have the staff (at all levels) that we currently have for mission? I strongly believe mission is central to the church. Adam provided examples of Douglas MC s involvement with missions including refugee sponsorship and witness workers supported in China. I want to speak to finding a way to fund and have shared wisdom where it s needed. I hope we can find a way to maintain important ministries together. Moderator noted that listening and working group members are identified on MCM s website and group members present were introduced. Questions and comments will be considered by the Interim Council and executive staff in deliberations. 10:15 What MCM does together - Staff reports Mission Ministry Camps with Meaning Associate Program Director Shawn Klassen reported on camping ministry. A curriculum with the focus theme of discipleship is being developed for camp this upcoming summer. Shawn is in the process of recruiting, interviewing, and filling camp leadership positions. Regular camp committee meetings have taken place to explore ways of improving Camps with Meaning including: providing more opportunities for campers to choose activities, adding new age-related milestone activities, a wilderness skills camp at Camp Assiniboia, and an art camp. Programming for adults with disabilities will be expanded with one additional week per summer. Camp recruitment is taking place through school visits, social media presence, and newspaper advertisement. Delegates were encouraged to participate in recruitment and volunteering at camp. The upcoming Raise the Roof Song-a-thon, a fundraiser for building 4 new cabins at Camp Assiniboia, was highlighted. Director of Mission Dorothy Fontaine provided an overarching report on Mission Ministry. Dorothy highlighted the mission vision of MC Manitoba: 1. Nurture spiritual growth of the next generation through vibrant summer camps and a leadership program. 2. Support churches in mission goals Increasingly churches are involved in local mission work. MCM intends to provide spaces and resources for churches during processes of reconciliation and restoration, including: New programs: MCM would like to expand leadership opportunities for youth and young adults by creating a gap year program at Camp Assinibioia; offer a retreat program for congregations; provide short service opportunities to guest groups such as making blankets for MCC, working with MDS or Habitat for Humanity. Long-term service opportunities: MCM will promote restorative relationships with creation and Indigenous peoples of Manitoba. A farm program, forest, and trails will be further developed. Hospitality to families of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls (MMIWG) will be extended at Camp Assiniboia. MCM plans to build a cabin for families of MMIWG and envisions that the church will assist these families to search for love ones. Camping ministries: A missions committee has been formed to advise and give direction to operations and programming and includes Reynold Friesen (chair), Sandy Plett, Dave Wiebe, and Art Wiebe. There is a strong need for camp volunteers during the fall, winter, and spring seasons. In response, preparations are being made to launch a year-round volun- 26 Mennonite Church Manitoba

27 minutes of 70th annual gathering. march 2017 teer program at Camp Assiniboia. Congregational giving has decreased significantly in recent years, which has impacted camping ministries. Decisive action will need to be taken to keep camping ministries in place. A new philosophy regarding camper registration fees has been proposed: make camp fair and accessible to all. If adopted, registration fees will be raised for middle to upper income families and bursary funds made available to lower income families. A survey of camper parents was conducted in 2016 with results suggesting that a significant number of families could afford an increase in the camper registration fee. If excess accumulates in the bursary fund, MCM could seek out opportunities to extend camper invitations further as well as support congregations in their own children s ministries. MCM will begin fundraising this year with the intention of changing camper registration rates next year. Partnership Circle Program: Partnership circle churches have discussed ways to expand connections with other churches concerning water justice, MMIWG, and United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Working groups have been formed to consider ideas. Current initiatives include: a small MCM group participating annually in a search for MMIWG together with their families; Altona MC and Roseau River First Nation have connected and are engaging in reconciliatory activities. Constituents are encouraged to participate in initiatives started by families of MMIWG and particularly to join in the search noted above; Dorothy can provide more information to interested constituents. Community participation programs: Dorothy invites interested pastors and church leaders to engage in a discussion this spring regarding community participation programs. This will be an opportunity for churches with well-established community participation programs and those beginning programs to share experiences and resources. 10:40 Workshop instructions Break 11:00 Workshops Is Mennonite singing a thing? Darryl Neustaedter Barg and Paul Dueck, MCM Culture and Call: A conversation about mission -Tim Froese, Executive Minister, Witness, MC Canada Christian Education, Faith Formation, Spiritual Transformation Who is talking about these things? -Elsie Rempel, Education Consultant, Arlyn Friesen Epp, MC Canada, Kathy Giesbrecht, MCM Justice and Peace in Palestine and Israel -Carolyn Epp Fransen, Byron Rempel Burkholder, National Palestine and Israel working group of MC Canada 12:00 Lunch 1:00 Worship Paul Dueck led the delegate body in a congregational hymn: Heart with loving heart united. Announcements: A special assembly of MC Canada will take place October 13-15, This will be the last national Mennonite Church assembly. Moderator introduced guests: Rachel and Lee Hiebert, AMBS; Earl Reimer, EMHS; Peter Dyck, Manitoba Multifaith Council; Ken Reddig, Canadian Mennonite Publishing Service; Terry Schellenberg and Alex Tiessen, CMU; David Hogue, Resident Camp Manager Assiniboia; Jessie Thiessen, MCM Administrative Assistant; Paul Dueck, Camp Assiniboia Staff; Valerie Block and Nikki Hamm, MCCM; Cheryl Braun, MCI; Willard Metzger, Dan Horne, Tim Froese, and Arlyn Friesen Epp, MC Canada; Mark von Kampen, U of M Mennonite Chaplaincy; Dori Zerbe Cornelson, Abundance Canada; and Ross Penner, MDS. 1:20 More of what we do together - Staff reports including financial report Executive Director Report Ken Warkentin provided the 2016 annual report. He emphasized that ministry is site sensitive. In 2016 considerable time was invested in meeting with churches and church leaders about what it means to be a faithful church. Ken reviewed the MCM Gathering March 2-3,

28 minutes of 70th annual gathering. march 2017 termination process documented in MCM s constitution. It was noted that since its establishment in 1904, the conference has not been legislative but rather advisory to churches. Congregations are considered autonomous but strengthened in relationship with each other. Church membership update: Graysville MC voted to leave MCM in February 2017 and is encouraged to engage with MCM in the church termination process outlined in the constitution. Rosenort MC has announced the closure of their congregation with a final church service to be held March 5. Camp ownership update: MCM intends to sell Camp Koinonia and Camp Moose Lake. Steinbach Mennonite Church has withdrawn from negotiations to purchase Camp Moose Lake. Ken is exploring other options for the sale of this camp. MCM is deliberating with the Friends of Camp Koinonia group to transfer more direct management of Camp Koinonia to them. MCM intends to continue utilizing both camps after the sale of these properties. Ken closed noting that despite disagreement and discouragement, hope can be found in the good news that Jesus will satisfy. Financial Report Treasurer Tom Seals presented the 2016 financial report. Total revenue was $1.56M. Fewer funds were received from congregational giving than was budgeted for. Departmental rental changed minimally. Restricted fund revenue decreased in 2016 due to a large bequest received in the previous year. $90k was raised for the cabin project at Camp Assiniboia. Expenses were higher in comparison with 2015 and totaled $1.91M at year-end. Reasons include: An increased depreciation of capital Camp Koinoinia s expenses increased due to a critical lagoon replacement project Sale of Camp Moose Lake was anticipated but did not occur MCM planned to lease second floor office space at 600 Shaftesbury Blvd but was unable to secure a tenant At year-end the reserve fund balance totaled $678,684, down from $789k in MCM realized a net shortfall of $55,850. Tom noted that formal financial statements are in process with KPMG accountants and will be made available online. The MCM board reviewed and approved the 2017 budget in December Congregational giving has been budgeted for at the actual amount received in Congregational donations have been a concern for the past several years. The financial implications of MC Canada and area church restructuring are not yet known. Leadership Ministries Report Reports were provided by Director of Leadership Ministries Rick Neufeld and Associate Director Kathy Giesbrecht. Rick highlighted the importance of leadership during times of transition. He noted a challenge in the credentialing process for pastors. Monthly cluster meetings continue to be held with church leaders. MCM s strength as a collective body of churches is in calling out leadership and recognizing our leaders. Kathy reported on support work for youth and young adult pastors. She coordinates a youth ministries fellowship circle, men s sharing circle, and women s sharing circle. Kathy is a member of the Mennonite women working group and highlighted an upcoming MCM women s spiritual retreat scheduled for April 29. Frohe Botschaft Broadcast Report Dorothea Rempel Kampen reported on the Frohe Botschaft broadcast. The radio program is broadcasted in Canada, Mexico, and Paraguay. Frohe Botschaft has developed an extensive German music library. Dorothea extended thanks on behalf of faithful listeners for whom Frohe Botschaft is church. 28 Mennonite Church Manitoba

29 minutes of 70th annual gathering. march :10 Being a Faithful Church follow up on creating space A board statement on responding to BFC7 was presented. Moderator provided an introduction based on Romans chapters 14 and 15 where Paul reflects on how believers of strong and weak convictions should engage with one another regarding differing understandings of food restrictions. Moderator encouraged churches to consider: Whose faith in the gospel of Christ will be injured if I practice my conviction with regards to same-sex marriage? Congregational statement of Niverville Community Fellowship shared by Gerry Rempel: Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, In Article 9 of our Confession of Faith we read that the Church is the assembly of those who have accepted God s offer of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ... The Church, the body of Christ, is called to become ever more like Jesus, its head, in its worship, ministry, witness, mutual love and care, and the ordering of its common life... Through the work of the Holy Spirit, divisions between nations, races, classes, and genders are being healed as persons from every human grouping are reconciled and united. We thank God for the Church and for the family-like community that we have become to each other. And we are thankful for the healing that takes place in our communities, because of our love for one another and because of the presence of Jesus. Being like a family means that we value speaking honestly with one another, even though we know that our words may cause pain, before they create a deeper, more meaningful relationship. Having said this, we would like the Churches who have affirmed same-sex commitment within marriage to know that your actions have brought pain to our congregation. Some are angry with you. Some in our congregation have come to believe that you do not value the Scriptures, our Confession of Faith, or us. While we commend you for loving people who are same-sex attracted, we believe that the Scriptures - as interpreted by Article 19 - do not affirm same-sex marriage. Therefore, we call on you to continue to be a healing community, while remaining in substantial agreement with our Confession of Faith a confession that we believe is faithfully anchored in Scripture. We pray that God will continue to bring healing where there is division and that together, we will reflect God s glory as we serve one another in love. C. Doug Unruh, Lowe Farm MC Doug clarified comment as a personal reflection. Jesus reconciles the world to Himself. Staying unified in Christ isn t about giving up our points of view but recognizing that Jesus is bigger than our differences. God s reconciliation is what needs to bring us together. C. Paul Peters, Seeds Community Church Paul clarified comment as a personal reflection. I want to extend thanks to conference and church leaders who are providing leadership at a difficult time. I want to invite all of us to listen first before we speak. C. Ken Quiring, Grace MC (Brandon) Ken reported that Grace MC church representatives who attended the meeting held at Morden MC felt that presenters expressed their positions academically but did not dialogue with each other; he noted this did not seem to be of benefit to those in attendance. C. Moses Falco, Sterling Mennonite Fellowship Moses clarified comment as a personal reflection, but formulated within the context of his congregation. He shared a letter addressed to MCM, churches that affirm same-sex marriage, and churches that uphold the definition of marriage in the Confession of Faith. Although church members have diverse views on this topic, his letter highlighted the importance of church unity and listening to one another. C. John Braun, Charleswood MC What we re doing here today is practicing peace by dialoguing about a topic of disagreement. This is an opportunity to practice new dimensions of peace that we haven t known before. C. Franz Wiebe, North Kildonan MC The question around Being a Faithful Church does not register at NKMC as the church s priorities are elsewhere; there is difference of opinion within the congregation but this is not seen as problematic. Let s not let one issue become so important that it determines our priorities and how we live. Jesus heals those who are unclean or excluded from the faith community. MCM Gathering March 2-3,

30 minutes of 70th annual gathering. march 2017 C. Karen Schellenberg, Carman MC, MCM board I have a dream that 2017 will be the year of hospitality for MCM. I envision Winnipeg churches and rural churches inviting each other into fellowship throughout this year. C. Ray Hamm, Altona MC I affirm the MCM board s recommendation to await a decision for 3 years because it s a huge question. We need to learn together and speak with care and clarity. Let s reflect more on learning. C. Arlyn Friesen Epp, Director of Common Word, MC Canada Arlyn recommended a resource available on the Common Word website: Seeking to be Faithful: The Bible and Same Sex Relationships, Dan Epp Tiessen, Michael Paul, and John H. Neufeld. This resource provides contrasting interpretations of scripture with regards to same sex relationships. C. Carolyn Epp Fransen, Charleswood MC I affirm the statement, but am cautious about prolonging action for 3 years. I want us to say clearly that we love gay, lesbian, and transgender people. C. Walter Wiebe, Morden MC Walter clarified comment as a personal reflection. There are differing opinions at Morden MC. Conversation has taken place. The issue is that assumptions about certain values have been challenged. The assumptions that we grow up with tend to morph into what we see as truths and become embedded in stone. It seems that we have forgotten that people on the other end are struggling. My hope is that we take a look at our own assumptions. Rather than focusing on how we can keep the church clean, we should focus on how we can accept them the way Jesus accepted outcasts. C. Dan Kehler, pastor, Altona MC Altona MC voted in favour of BFC in Saskatoon. We acknowledge that we don t know the ramifications of this decision and there are varying opinions within our church. I would encourage shortening the 3-year time frame that is outlined. We need to move forward acknowledging that we re at different places and keep dialogue open to provide space for the Spirit. Moderator requested a time of silent prayer. Prayer was closed by Rick Neufeld. Moderator encouraged delegates to continue conversations at the congregational level where congregations feel it is needed. The MCM board statement is intended to provide clarity at the area church level. The delegate body was thanked for engaging in conversation and prayer. 3:00 Other board conversation Floor conversation regarding staff reports: Q. Harold Peters Fransen, Elim MC Thanks was extended to Kathy for her report. I would encourage coordinating a minimally annual evening meeting invitation to youth sponsors, where churches don t have youth pastors. A. Kathy Giesbrecht I receive your challenge. Q. Ross Penner, Hope MC Is there an operating reserve policy? When expenditures are considerably higher than budgeted for is there policy that provides guidelines? A. Ken Warkentin We don t have a policy regarding how reserves are used or what percentage can be used. Some money in the reserve fund has been treated as a loan between two departments, in which case the money will be recouped. C. Ross Penner Follow-up: I recommend considering a policy. C. David Hogue, Camp Assiniboia David provided an update on operations at Camp Assiniboia. Pete Enns resigned from his maintenance position and Jacob Fehr has been hired to fill this position. A group of volunteers is assisting with camp renovations 1-2 days per week and thanks were extended to this group. C. Ray Hamm, Altona MC It seems area churches provide the context for leadership ministries. Q. Earl Reimer, Emmanuel MC Are we expected to vote on the proposed budget? The proposed budget for camping 30 Mennonite Church Manitoba

31 minutes of 70th annual gathering. march 2017 ministries documents spending more money than will be taken in. Can you provide clarity on this? A. Moderator Acceptance of the budget is among the board actions. A. Ken Warkentin The budget projected is balanced. We are moving toward a model where the camp-spending trend is reversed, which will hopefully be realized in the near future. Camping ministries have always cost the church money. A. Moderator We can remove the proposed budget from the board actions if there are specific delegate concerns. Q. Julia Derksen, Charleswood Mennonite Church How does the declining number of campers factor into the plan for camps? A. Dorothy Fontaine It is helpful to understand camper loyalty. By age 11 or 12, kids have chosen their camp. The plan includes expanding opportunities for young kids and families to participate in day camps and placing more emphasis on camp for adults with disabilities. Q. Kendra Friesen, Steinbach Mennonite Church Why was less money spent on staff salaries for camp in 2016? A. Tim Seals There was a reduced number of weeks requiring staff pay. The cost of staff salaries depends on congregational support, as this is frequently a cost shared by congregations and MCM. A. Shawn Klassen Koop Staff salary costs are also impacted by whether nurses request payment. Last year all nurses volunteered their time. Moderator clarified that the delegate body is asked to approve the $475k contribution from churches budgeted for Motion to accept the congregational donation amount of $475k for M/S Harold Peters Fransen/Richard Klassen. Carried. 3:15 Outstanding agenda, resolutions, acceptance of reports, elections Motion to accept the reports. M/S Franz Wiebe/Andrew Wiens. Carried. Motion to accept the board actions. M/S Colleen Edmunds/Erwin Warkentin. Carried. Motion to accept appointments and elections. M/S Tim Wenger/Virginia Gerbrandt. Carried. A resolution was presented by Virginia Gerbrandt on behalf of the MCM board to thank Emmanuel Mennonite Church for their hospitality as the host church of the 2017 annual gathering. Thanks were extended to outgoing MCM board members Karen Schellenberg, Dave Regehr, and Ken Quiring for their service. 3:25 Final worship Rick Neufeld extended thanks to Peter Rempel for service as moderator. He reflected that the church is challenged to be the vessel of God s grace, love, and mercy in our own communities. Rick closed with a reading of 1 Corinthians 13. Darryl Neustaedter Barg led a sending song. The meeting was adjourned at 3:32 pm. Minutes recorded by Nikki Hamm MCM Gathering March 2-3,

32 Fall Gathering November, 2017 Host Congregation: Elim Mennonite Church, Grunthal, MB Minutes of Mennonite Church Manitoba Fall Delegate Gathering Thursday, November 2, 2017 Elim Mennonite Church, Grunthal, Manitoba 1. Opening a) Call to order Moderator Peter Rempel called the meeting to order at 7 pm. b) Opening worship Host pastor Harold Peters-Fransen welcomed delegates and led an opening meditation based on 1 Peter 2:4-9. c) Review of agenda Moderator reviewed the agenda. Motion to adopt the agenda as presented. Motion carried. d) Other announcements 2017 Annual Gathering minutes will be presented at the 2018 Annual Gathering. MCM Board Members and staff were introduced. 2. Report on the MC Canada meetings a) Implications for MCM structure A pamphlet was provided to delegates outlining how the change in conference structure, approved at the MC Canada Special Assembly, impacts MCM s work. The newly formed Joint Council, consisting of regional church moderators and officers of MC Canada, met following Special Assembly. Shared convictions of global Anabaptists were added to the covenant. The covenant was signed and is now operative. Upcoming Joint Council meetings are scheduled for December and January. Revised by-laws were accepted at Special Assembly and will be distributed shortly. Operating principles were accepted with strengthened emphasis on congregational discernment. MC Canada staffing changes have taken place including terminations. Floor conversation: C. Ray Hamm, Altona MC: What you do for the first 6 months typically becomes a pattern for 6 years. Congregations have not had opportunity to share their voice yet. Please don t let that become the pattern. A. Moderator: Noted. Q. Homer Janzen, Steinbach MC: I looked over the brochure, but didn t see what the implications will be for the Canadian Mennonite magazine. A. Moderator: We ll touch on this question under the next item. b) Implications for MCM work i. Governance implications Moderator outlined the implications for MCM governance. Several by-laws will need to be revised. At the 2018 Annual Gathering a by-law change will be proposed to eliminate MCM member congregations automatic membership in MC Canada. The MCM Board will propose a title change for Ken Warkentin from Executive Director to Executive Minister, which would result in consistency across regional churches and with MC Canada. 32 Mennonite Church Manitoba

33 minutes of the fall gathering. november 2017 Via the Nominating Committee, the board will bring forward a nomination for a second representative to Joint Council. A nominee is not selected for presentation to the delegate body on this date. MCM will elect 15 representatives from member congregations to represent MCM at MC Canada delegate assemblies plus 6 board members. The nominating committee will prepare a process for representative selection. MCM intends to bring representative nominations to each annual meeting prior to an MC Canada delegate assembly. Joint Council responsibilities include: finalizing the operating agreement; reviewing working group reports and recommendations; and participating in MC Canada budgeting. MCM will negotiate new and previous covenants with other regional churches and affiliated organizations. MCM, MCA, and MCS will negotiate strategic shared staffing. A new covenant between CMU and prairie regional churches will replace the previous covenant between CMU and MC Canada. The current covenant with Canadian Mennonite Publishing Service expires December 1, 2017 with plans in place to extend the covenant for another year. A review of how regional churches relate to the Canadian Mennonite will take place thereafter. MCM member congregations will be asked to speak into national matters including: budgets approved in principle; receiving concerns, advice, and comments from constituents and forwarding these to the national church; international witness; and expanding MCM delegate gathering agendas and time for additional reporting and increased input into nationwide ministries and policies. MCM Board has considered the following options to meet the need for expanded agenda and time: extend time allotment on the Saturday of Annual Gathering; hold a full day Fall Gathering on Remembrance Day; add a meeting in June or July; or hold regional cluster meetings. ii. Report on board and staff retreat At the board and staff retreat held in May, 7 ministry priorities were identified and are, in order of priority: congregational health; pastoral support; formation of Christian/Anabaptist character; mission; advocacy and education; wider linkages to sister agencies and partners; and worship and fellowship events. iii. Implications on MCM staff work Ken Warkentin outlined implications on MCM staff work. Greater emphasis will be placed on mission. MCM staff is asked to engage with and facilitate relationship between International Witness workers and congregations. Staff will encourage continued and new partnerships between international workers and congregations, and new ways to engage in international and Canadian ministries. MCM will work more closely with Steve Heinrichs, Indigenous Relations Director, to engage Truth & Reconciliation Calls to Action 59, 60, and 61. Congregations will be encouraged to become local centres of mission. MCM will hire a development director to support funding sources for national work, International Witness, and MCM projects. MCM leadership ministry staff will be more involved with Ministerial Leadership Information forms (MLI) and development of best practices and training for pastoral staff as well as MCM partnerships with CMU and other regional churches. MCM member congregations will be asked to combine contributions previously sent to MCM and MC Canada into one cheque sent to MCM. MCM will then forward the approved allocation to MC Canada. MCM delegates to national gatherings will be decided at regional church gatherings. The role Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary (AMBS) has for congregations is under consideration. AMBS is a bi-national seminary serving Canada and the United States. AMBS will relate directly to all 5 regional churches until a formal structure is determined. Social issues may be discerned at a national level or addressed via pastoral feedback. Communications staff of all regional churches will work collaboratively at a national level. An Executive Staff Group (ESG) has been formed including all MCM Gathering March 2-3,

34 minutes of the fall gathering. november 2017 executive staff of regional churches and the Executive Minister of MC Canada. ESG will meet face-to-face six times per year and teleconference frequently throughout the year. Floor discussion: Q. John Peters, Charleswood MC: Ken mentioned working collaboratively and cooperatively with prairie regional churches regarding CMU and then spoke about regional communications staff working together at a national level. Will the collaboration of regional communications staff be only among prairie churches or will this be wider? A. Ken Warkentin: It will be wider. A half-time communications director is needed. MC EC has a full time communications staff person. Other regional churches have lesser communications staffing. We will work collaboratively to develop communications for the national platform. Regional communications staff will determine how to distribute materials and who will prepare them. Communications staff will work collaboratively by teleconference on a regular basis. Q. John Peters: Will there not be a Canada-wide coordinator identified? A. Ken Warkentin: Initial we were thinking no, but have rethought that decision. Q. Don Rempel Boschman, Douglas MC: I appreciated the minutes from the board and staff retreat including the ministry priorities. Will there be any opportunity for delegates and congregations to give feedback on the priorities? A. Peter Rempel: Yes, you can provide feedback. It can be included in the Annual Gathering agenda. C. Don Rempel Boschman: I would like time to devote to this and be able to work together on this. A. Peter Rempel: We will circulate the board and staff priorities to congregations for consideration. Q. Virginia Gerbrandt-Richert, Altona Bergthaler MC: 15 delegates need to be nominated. Will these be ongoing delegates or appointed each year? A. Peter Rempel: This hasn t been worked out yet. The Nominating Committee can include this in the process document they will develop. We are open to suggestions. Correction: There are actually 14 delegates to be nominated. Q. Kathy Koop, First MC: I noticed a lot of male representatives in the leadership, especially the ESG. I hope this doesn t represent who we are in this day and age. Has there been any thought given to this? A. Ken Warkentin: Yes. We do hope to put a plan in place to address this culturally. We have engaged the services of a diversity training specialist, who will help address this culturally, not as a checklist. What are the things that keep us from becoming more diverse? We want to work at strategies to overcoming barriers. A. Peter Rempel: We recognize that the Joint Council is mainly white-haired men, with one female member. MCM aims to add a second representative from a different demographic. One of the ways we are working towards this is by changing meeting times to Saturday and Sunday for candidates who may be in the workforce. C. Ross Penner, Hope MC: As you consider the delegate system, I d encourage you to think not just about one-offs all the time when trying to work with long-term issues. I d encourage a goal of retaining 35% of past delegates at a following delegate gathering for some consistency in moving forward. Q. Judith Friesen Epp, Home Street MC: I understand the relationship to CMU is not yet decided, but that prairie regional churches will relate to CMU. Does this mean it s a prairie institution? Can you clarify that? A. Ken Warkentin: CMU has traditionally been seen as a national school, but other conference schools seen as regional. It made sense. CMU has a specific role within MC Canada congregations. The relationship with prairie regional churches is more about governance and finances than national reach. C. Ray Hamm, Altona MC: Regarding decision-making about CMU and AMBS, it could be complicated simply to sort out schools in Canada. I would suggest AMBS go on the back burner for now. I wonder how much AMBS really is a Canadian institution. With regards to the ministry priorities identified by staff and board, I hope that we don t lose our history as a peace church. Q. David Hogue, Springstein MC: How did you come up with 14 delegates for MCM? A. Peter Rempel: It was determined by a formula as adopted in our by-laws. Each regional church has a base amount of 6 representatives from their board plus an additional 5 representatives. Additional delegates are appointed as 1 per Mennonite Church Manitoba

35 members. In Manitoba we have approximately 8,400 members. minutes of the fall gathering. november 2017 Q. Moses Falco, Sterling MF: The new initiatives are great and looking at hiring new staff could be great if the money is there too. I d encourage us to be careful as we move forward about how much we re downloading from national to regional staff. This may be putting too much on them considering the time they have available. I also share feelings of loss with MC Canada staff. Being in that space and office it s been kind of gloomy. Just a thought, what about reimagining that space to create a gathering place? A. Ken Warkentin: The space Moses is referring to is 6-7 cubicles in the centre of MC Canada office space. All desks and walls will be moved and collaborative space will be created there. In response to the first comment, there are some things we re struggling to get done. We are developing systems to get work done differently. Congregational ministerial staff will share the load across Canada. C. Henry Loewen, Fort Garry MF: The word covenant has been used a lot today. There are few places in one s life when one makes covenants. These are significant places in one s life and are very often connected with celebration. I hope we can take some time to celebrate this covenant. It wants to be the signing of the documents. That is not really the covenant celebration. It s all the things that happen before that. I hope we can find ways both congregationally and as the regional church to celebrate this covenant. A. Peter Rempel: Noted. Q. Justin Zacharias, Emmanuel MC: I have a hard time disconnecting budget from this conversation. I d like to know how the total amount of congregational donations is projected. Does this represent 100% of donations to MCM and MC Canada from this year? Secondly, as delegates at the MC Canada Special Assembly, we talked at length about the Canadian Mennonite publication and its role. There s been some confusion about the role of Canadian Mennonite as a conduit of MC Canada or a publication with freedom of speech. This is big concern for my congregation. A. Peter Rempel: That will be one of questions looked at in the new covenant with Canadian Mennonite in the next quarter. There has been controversy on this since The budget question will be replied to in the next section. Q. Rafael Duersen, Springfield MC: I heard inklings about the relearning community program at the Special Assembly. Looking at the board and staff priorities it seems to fit well. Could we collaborate with MC EC on this program? A. Ken Warkentin: This is a case-in-point for shared learning. Yes, we will draw on MC EC s expertise. Q. Dori Zerbe Cornelsen, Hope MC: I m curious if MCM s old space has been leased. If not, maybe leasing the main floor would be more accessible. A. Ken Warkentin: We have spent the last year trying to figure that out. We have a signed lease agreement. The issue right now is with obtaining an occupancy permit with the City of Winnipeg. If it should fall through, we will look at other options. Q. John Peters, Charleswood MC: Are the changes in church contributions supposed to begin in January or February? A. Ken Warkentin: Congregations are asked to begin combining financial contributions into one cheque in January. MCM s fiscal year-end is December 31. MC Canada s year-end is January 31. Q. John Peters: How does that impact MC Canada? A. Ken Warkentin: That is yet to be figured out. A. Peter Rempel: One cheque will go to MCM without designating an amount for MC Canada. MCM will forward the agreed upon amount to MC Canada. Quorum was reached with 26 congregations and 70 delegates represented. 3. Budget The 2018 projected income and expenses were reported. Delegates are requested to ratify the congregational giving allocation. The change in conference structure impacted the numbers that are presented. a) Revenue If all churches would give what is anticipate in 2017 the congregational giving amount would be $475k. Congregational MCM Gathering March 2-3,

36 minutes of the fall gathering. november 2017 giving to MC Canada is budgeted at $557k in These numbers combined equal $1.32m, which is the proposed congregational giving amount in the 2018 MCM budget. Donors to MC Canada will be asked to redirect their donations to MCM with individual donation revenue projected at $108k. Staff feels this is a low estimate. Revenue from camping ministries is projected at $877k. Individual donations and fees from other MCM ministries include income from missions, leadership, conference and community-building events, and is projected at $196k. Total 2018 projected revenue is $2.213m. Ken noted that it is difficult to determine congregational donations at this time of year. Some congregations give consistent donations throughout the year and others send donations at unpredictable intervals. MCM is currently a bit behind. MC Canada is close to anticipated congregational giving revenue. MCM is requesting churches begin combining contributions in one cheque made out to MCM. b) Expenses The camping ministries expense is $1.003m. With camping revenue at $877k the cost of camping ministries is $126k. Expenses of other MCM ministries are projected at $570k. This line includes salaries for mission, leadership, and community-building staff. Ken noted resignation of Shawn Klassen-Koop as Associate Director of Camps. His replacement will be Janet Peters. MCM is currently a bit short of 2017 expense projections. New 2018 financial commitments include a grant to CMU in the amount of $100k, which is MCM s portion of the total contribution of prairie regional churches in the amount of $175k. The new line for MCM staff positions includes salary and other related expenses for a development director, who will support international ministry, coordinate MCM events, and connect with congregations. An expense of $10k per year has been added to support appointment of 20 delegates to biannual national assemblies. Under the new structure, MC Canada will not have a revenue stream, as regional churches will hold the national agenda. A forwarding of $440k to MC Canada will fund executive office, International Witness, Joint Council, Anabaptist resources, and national gathering costs. Anabaptist resources include primarily staffing and program for Common Word. The contribution to MC Canada also includes support services, i.e. pension, administration, events, building costs, and supplies, leadership development, and Canadian witness staffing and program. National communications strategy and Canadian Mennonite costs are also included. MCM Board Member Richard Klassen presented the year-end position of MCM and MC Canada for fiscal years Due to MC Canada s deficit position there was urgency in moving forward decision-making on Covenant New from 1 year to 6 months. MCM has also not realized a surplus over the past 5 years. The financial position of MC Canada and of the regional churches is the reason for energy put into Future Directions. MCM owns a quarter of the revenue and deficit of the national church. The proposed 2018 budget is balanced with revenue and expenses projected at $2.213m. Staff has worked hard to turn deficits into the proposed balanced budget. MCM s potential to reach a balanced budget is highly dependent on individual congregations meeting the congregational giving commitment, based on historical giving patterns. Floor conversation: Q. Moses Falco, Sterling MF: Regarding camps, the budget remains the same even though there are now 2 camps instead of 3. Is it public for us to know how much Camp Moose Lake was sold for? Where is the money sitting? A. Ken Warkentin: Yes. Camp Moose Lake was sold to Division Scolaire Franco-Manitobain, which constitutes all Francophone schools in Manitoba. MCM asked for $250k for the camp plus $100k for chattel. $350k was agreed to in the sale of Camp Moose Lake. The allocation of these funds has not yet determined. It will be on the board agenda at the next few meetings. With reduction in camp locations, MCM can increase usage of the remaining camps. Camp weeks will be added at the remaining 2 camps with a total of 3 camp weeks lost. A plan is in place to increase camper fees next year. While camper fees will increase, MCM will increase bursary capacity in an effort to make camp accessible to all. These accommodations result in a zero sum difference. Q. Kyle Penner, Steinbach Grace MC: If Grace gave $25k to MCM and $25k to MC Canada, we are now asked to give $50k to MCM. Are we asked to contribute more money in addition to our traditional donation for International Witness? A. Ken Warkentin: The money that you send to MCM includes our portion of the Nationwide costs, including money 36 Mennonite Church Manitoba

37 minutes of the fall gathering. november 2017 from the core budget to International Witness. If congregations have a current partnership with International Witness workers we will encourage you to continue that. If you don t have a current relationship to International Witness workers we will encourage you to consider one. Q. Justin Zacharias, Emmanuel MC: Do the accumulated deficits that were presented represent debt? If so, how much? With the sale of Camp Moose Lake, is there a projection of lost rental revenue? Or plan for that? Will the proposed allocation for Camp Moose Lake sale revenue be brought to the delegate body? A. Ken Warkentin: MCM has managed to cover all past deficits with previous surpluses. MC Canada has also drawn on past surpluses to cover recent deficits. Severance packages are currently covered by past surpluses, but after 2018 MC Canada will have reduced capacity to cover severance costs. Camp Moose Lake operated near a balanced budget. There will be very little impact on revenue. There will be some loss of revenue, as Division Scolaire Franco-Manitobain will have less rental needs. MCM will need to secure new rental income. A. Peter Rempel: Camp sale income will be dealt with under the policy and precedent for sale of capital assets. I would suggest that it would not be prudent to apply that amount to operating costs. If anything, camp sale revenue should be applied to investment in capital development. Capital decisions would come to the delegate body. C. Darcy Pauls, Niverville Community Fellowship: Our church is going to vote on November 19 on whether we stay in the conference. So you will understand if I don t vote on the budget. I ask that you keep us in your prayers and we ll keep you in our prayers. A. Peter Rempel: Yes, our prayers will be with you. Q. Kathy Koop, First MC: Time is our enemy. Last year we also ran a deficit and we re not sure where we ll end up this year, which is probably true for some churches too. Some churches have left in the process. Has any attempt been made to communicate with congregations about the proposed congregational giving amount? A. Ken Warkentin: We did ask congregations for input regarding their contributions relating to the 2017 budget and recognize that some churches are having difficulty. At the same time, some churches are getting younger and bigger. We will continue to be in conversation with congregations. These figures are fluid and are set at the beginning of the year as a guide. We will accommodate appropriately throughout the year. C. Adam Robinson, Douglas MC: I want to respond to brothers and sisters in Niverville. We need to commit to pray and recognize the trend that Richard challenges us on. The past narrative has been of fierce loyalty to shared values in mission. When there is a sense of strong connection, money follows. I would appeal that in the next year, we find space and time, as I m not sure there is that fierce loyalty now. Many are retreating into corners of our congregations. We don t have a narrative of a positive missional vision together and need to bring camping ministries, national ministries, and International Witness together. We need to acknowledge and work at this. There hasn t been a lot of time for delegate input. We need opportunity to speak together about larger challenges. Q. John Peters, Charleswood MC: What I ve been hearing is that the motion calls for us to approve congregational giving on the basis of what churches gave this year, which is still projected. Yet the graphs Richard showed us indicated there has been a decline. Is that right that you haven t adjusted for the decline? A. Ken Warkentin: The MC Canada figure was adjusted down by about 10% or $60k. The MCM amount was not adjusted. C. John Peters, Charleswood MC: 15 years ago when MC Canada and MCUSA pulled apart, there was a flurry about hirings and offices rented, which didn t happen. It would be prudent not to further reduce that line. It may be easier to approve a smaller number and then if more money comes in approve more. Q. Rafael Duerksen, Springfield MC: Just to clarify, let s say we don t make budget. Either way $440k will go to MC Canada? A. Peter Rempel: Yes, as it was agreed to in the operating principles. C. Rafael Duerksen, Springfield MC: This puts weight on the regional churches and congregations. I think that s concerning. My church is going to say, why should we be giving as much as before? The trend with giving patterns is that people give where they feel connected. Many are not feeling connected to MC Canada right now. C. Moses Falco, Sterling MF: We often have discussion and then everyone says yes. What bothers me is all the new stuff. MCM Gathering March 2-3,

38 minutes of the fall gathering. november 2017 MC Canada individual donations are of concern to me. The amount seems ambitious. Maybe it s not bad to set a budget that is a little lower. A. Ken Warkentin: The projected revenue of $108k from individual donors is less than two thirds of what was received by MC Canada last year. I think it s a reasonable number. The new development director will be tasked to steward this. I think the full budget is quite doable. In my 6 years as Executive Minister, I ve found that at the end of the year most of the money comes in. Regardless, I think congregations are good for this money. This year we re letting staff go. This revenue will pay for International Witness work, Mennonite World Conference affiliation, Common Word, and Indigenous Relations, with this program being second to none in church relations with Indigenous people. I think this is what the church is about. Q. Justin Zacharias, Emmanuel MC: In terms of our process, do we have to vote on this tonight for the bills to get paid? I m feeling uncomfortable as we haven t even had a chance to present conference structural changes to our congregation yet. I feel unprepared to vote on this. A. Peter Rempel: You re the body who decides whether you vote on this tonight. Q. Justin Zacharias: Is there a way we could bring this to congregations before approving the budget? A. Peter Rempel: You can choose to the table the vote. C. Richard Klassen, First MC: The delegate body is asked to approve the top line of the budget. The budget needs to be worked out in much more detail. Some congregations have no idea if they can meet that commitment. No one knows. If it doesn t work out, we will respond during the year. If we go back to our congregations and say this is the expectation, congregations will still decide if they accept this expectation. C. Ross Penner, Hope MC: We are entering unknown territory. I have observed leadership who ve worked hard at this. You have presented the best wisdom you have and listened to our doubts and concerns. We can t be sure of everything. If we can t meet the numbers, we know you will work to address this. I would like to call for the question. A hand vote in favour of closing discussion was passed. C. John Peters, Charleswood MC: You are forcing me to vote against this. I would like to see a lower number presented. A. Peter Rempel: If the majority of delegates feel a lower number is appropriate, the motion will be rejected. Motion that we approve the 2018 Congregational Giving Donations budget of $1,032,000 (line 12). Motion accepted with 40 delegates in favour and 7 opposed. Motion that we authorize the MCM Board of Directors to approve the details of the 2017 MCM budget. Motion carried unanimously. 4. Nomination of 2nd representative to the MC Canada Joint Council The Nominating Committee has met several times to identify a second representative to Joint Council. Candidates have been identified but a nomination not yet ready. The delegate body can authorize the board to ratify the nomination or appoint a second representative at the next delegate body meeting. If appointment waits, the second representative will miss 2 Joint Council meetings. The Nominating Committee and board will ensure the candidate is of another demographic. Motion to authorize the MCM Board of Directors to ratify nomination of a second Joint Council representative. M/S Ross Penner/Andrew Wiens. Motion carried. Minutes recorded by Nikki Hamm 38 Mennonite Church Manitoba

39 minutes of the fall gathering. november 2017 MCM Gathering March 2-3,

40 MCM Representatives to Related Organization Boards ORGANIZATIONS RELATED TO MCM (and MCM Board representatives, if applicable) Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary Sara Wenger Schenk, President, 3003 Benham Ave., Elkhart, IN Phone: Canadian Mennonite Publishing Service Ginny Hostetler, Editor, Tobi Thiessen, Publisher, 490 Dutton Dr. Unit C5, Waterloo, ON N2L 6H7 Nicolien Klassen-Wiebe, Provincial Reporter, Ken Reddig (Pinawa) 2020 Canadian Mennonite University Cheryl Pauls, President, 500 Shaftesbury Blvd. Winnipeg, MB R3P 2N2 Phone: ext. 667 Mark Wieler 2017 Eden Health Care Services Analyn Einarson, CEO, 204 Main St. Box 129, Winkler, MB R6W 4A4 James Schellenberg (Douglas) 2020 Mary Penner (Sargent) 2020 Laura Unger (Glenlea) 2020 Dan Kehler (Altona Menn.) 2018 Shanda Hochstetler (Charleswood) 2019 Chris Marchand (Niverville) 2019 Graduate School of Theology and Ministry Karl Koop, Director 600 Shaftesbury Blvd. Winnipeg, MB R3P 2N2 Phone: ext. 630 Marla Langelotz (Sargent) 2019 Inter-Mennonite Chaplaincy Association Mark von Kampen, Campus Chaplain Inter-Mennonite Chaplaincy Assoc. University Centre University of Manitoba, R3T 2N2 Phone: FAX Scott Kroeker (FGMF) 2020 Dieter Schonwetter (FGMF) 2019 Sara Kunkel (First Menn) 2019 Manitoba Multifaith Council Peter J Dyck (Bethel) Mennonite Church Manitoba

41 Mennonite Central Committee Manitoba Ron Janzen, Executive Director, 124 Plaza Dr. Winnipeg, MB R3T 5K9 Phone: Kevin Drudge (Covenant) 2020 Stephan Epp Koop (Home St) 2019 Kelsey Hutton (Hope) 2019 Mennonite Church Canada Willard Metzger, General Secretary, 600 Shaftesbury Blvd. Winnipeg, MB R3P OM Peter Rempel (Charleswood) 2018 (General Board) Eric Rempel (Steinbach) 2020 (Nominating Committee) Mennonite Collegiate Institute Bernie Loeppky, Principal, Box 250, Gretna, MB R0G 0V0 Phone: Mennonite Disaster Service Ross Penner, Regional Manager 6A-1325 Markham Rd. Winnipeg, MB R3T 4J6 Phone: Garth Lee (FGMF) 2018 Peter Enns 2019 Ken Loewen (Bethel) 2019 Daniel Horne Westgate Mennonite Collegiate Bob Hummelt, Principal, 86 West Gate, Winnipeg, MB R3C 2E1 Phone: MCM Gathering March 2-3,

42 related organizations 2017 OVERVIEW REPORT JANUARY 2018 As each has received a gift, employ it for one another as good stewards of God s varied grace. 1 Peter 4:10 Generosity is the heart-beat of Abundance Canada. We envision a world were everyone lives generously, because when people choose to be generous, it changes lives. God s abundant love is put on display as we share with others the blessings given to us. For more than 40 years, Abundance Canada has invited people to share their abundance with the charities and causes they care about most today in their lifetime, and tomorrow, through their estate. AN UNPRECEDENTED YEAR! Abundance Canada is continually humbled and inspired by the generosity of the clients we serve. In 2017 we disbursed more donations to more charities than at any other time in our history. Our clients chose a record number of 1,133 charities as recipients of their generosity, and we are honoured to be part of this process. Our goal is to continue inspiring thoughts of God s abundance and to encourage people to share with those in need. A Gift Planning Consultant in your area is available to help you with your charitable goals. Our consultation services are free and without any obligation HIGHLIGHTS* $19.72 M Distributed to charities 1,133 Recipient charities supported by generous clients $39.46 M Total receipted * Unaudited figures WE OFFER: Gift and Estate Planning No obligation, free consultations Charitable gift facilitation Family Foundation planning and management Gift facilitation of stocks, bonds and mutual funds Bequests Gifts of Life Insurance ABUNDANCE CANADA GIFT PLANNING CONSULTANTS Harold Penner Kevin Davidson Peter Dryden Brad Friesen Marlow Gingerich Sherri Grosz David Barker For a no-obligation, free consultation with a Gift Planning Consultant in your area, please call Mennonite Church Manitoba Because generosity changes everything abundance.ca

43 related organizations Report to Mennonite Church Manitoba Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary: Sara Wenger Shenk, president Regional church connections AMBS Board member Mark Tiessen-Dyck (Sargent Avenue) Resources for faith formation and leadership development Academic programs AMBS serves the church as a learning community with an Anabaptist vision, educating followers of Jesus Christ to be leaders for God s reconciling mission in the world. Are you feeling drawn to deepen your understanding of Scripture, Anabaptist theology and faith? Our programs integrate academics, spiritual formation and practice, equipping students to read the Bible with an Anabaptist lens, apply critical thinking skills, lead compassionately and live faithfully wherever God may call them to serve. Master of Divinity (80 hrs) Master of Arts in Christian Formation (60 hrs) Master of Arts: Theology and Peace Studies (60 hrs) Graduate Certificate (27 credit hours) ambs.ca/academics Distance education options include the MDiv Connect which includes online and hybrid courses and the fully online Graduate Certificate. ambs.ca/mdivconnect ambs.ca/academics/certificates Financial aid. AMBS offers generous need-based financial aid and scholarships to help make your education affordable. For example, MDiv Connect students taking at least 12 credit hours per academic year are eligible to receive the full amount of needbased tuition aid from AMBS. ambs.ca/financialaid Want to explore seminary study before applying? Take an on-campus or online class even if you re not admitted to a degree or certificate program and your first class is 50 percent off! Check out our offerings for the next term: ambs.ca/academics/one-course-options Lifelong learning AMBS s Church Leadership Center offers various non-degree options for you to continue your education and strengthen your leadership skills: Short courses: Transforming Congregational Conflict and Communication (online); Cómo Se Formó la Biblia (campus); Exploring Anabaptist History and Theology (online) Seminars and workshops (online and on-campus) Pastors and Leaders (Feb. 26 March 1, 2018) Leadership Clinics (Feb. 26, 2018) Become a member of the Church Leadership Center! Members can receive additional benefits, including substantial discounts on events. ambs.ca/lifelong-learning Journey: A Missional Leadership Development Program is a 2-1/2-year non-degree leadership development program for people exploring a call to ministry. The distance-friendly AMBS program features a five-unit online curriculum, biweekly mentor-mentee meetings and one visit to the AMBS region per year. Participants receive a certificate upon meeting program requirements. ambs.ca/journey Host a Reading the Bible with Jesus workshop with itinerant Bible teacher Bryan Moyer Suderman for 1 2 days of digging deep into one of the Gospels to gain tools for reading and interpreting Scripture like Jesus did, in light of today s world. (Available in English and Spanish.) ambs.ca/workshops!explore: A Theological Program for High School Youth: Students (grades 10 12) can explore ministry, develop their leadership gifts and listen for God s call through a Congregational Experience and a Group Experience (July 3 18, 2018). Encourage someone you know to apply! ambs.ca/explore Experience AMBS: Visit our campus to learn more about all that AMBS has to offer. ambs.ca/visit We thank God for your support and ask for your prayers as we prepare leaders for the church through programs that are biblically, spiritually, ethically and theologically grounded. Rooted in the Word, Growing in Christ March 2018 AMBS 3003 Benham Avenue, Elkhart, IN 46517, USA ambs.ca MCM Gathering March 2-3,

44 related organizations And I will still be carrying you when you are old I made you, and I will carry you to safety. Isaiah 46:4. As a Mennonite Christian organization we are grateful for the opportunity to be part of God s work of journeying with the elderly in our community during the final stages of life. This past year has been perhaps the most tumultuous for the Manitoba health care system in the past 20 years. Up to this point there have been a few impacts on our Personal Care Homes. The first is the impending loss of Concordia Hospital s Emergency Department. When implemented, our residents will now have to travel to either St. Boniface or Health Science Centre for urgent or emergency treatments. Further, transport costs by ambulance for ourselves or Bethania resident families, will double as residents will no longer be returned to us by the Concordia-Bethania link. Residents will also now have to pay for wheelchair van and stretcher transport for medical and other appointments, unless they are deemed medically necessary. A second impact is a reduction in our global budgets of.25% in this year to help the WRHA achieve its $83M in budget cuts. While this cut may seem to be minor, any reduction in funding only adds to our current financial shortfalls and increasing pressures. Funding in most areas remains frozen although the demands to maintain the highest quality care for residents have increased because of the poorer health and mental status of the clients we now serve. While we are committed to managing within existing budgets by careful monitoring of expenditures, finding efficiencies and cutting spending has reached its limits and deficits will grow unless new resources can be found. We remain hopeful that Manitoba Health will acknowledge these funding pressures and provide additional support to enable us to maintain the compassionate care that our residents deserve. Notwithstanding the financial challenges, we continue to focus on efficient and effective strategies and processes to maintain and enhance our services to ensure residents receive the best quality personal health care, meals, recreation opportunities and spiritual support possible. We are also committed to supporting our staff to develop new skills to demonstrate a culture of compassionate care for residents. These current changes and the future challenges that are surely coming, will profoundly test our ability to effectively adapt where necessary but also our courage to speak truth to power and advocate for our residents whose voices are not heard. Our Board and staff will draw strength in facing these challenges from our families and residents, our supportive Church clergy, our Mennonite community and our partners such as the MARCHE group of not for profit PCHs, Mennonite Health Services Manitoba and our Mennonite Benevolent Society membership. We completed most of the planned activities under year two of our 3 year Strategic Plan which included training all staff on Dementia Care practices and Violence Prevention; completing the Safer Care for Older Persons Environments (SCOPE) project for Health Care Aides; training all Dietary/Food Service staff on Customer Service; enhancing our Spiritual Care support for End of Life and training staff in Dignity in Care; completing and implementing our Volunteer Action Plan; creating a Protocol for Communicating Pastoral Care visits; implementing new activities for our fundraising campaign for Spiritual Care; launching a new Performance Management system for staff and managers; training all managers and staff on the ASAP attendance program; creating a more systematic budget allocation and monitoring process, and working on joint strategies with WRHA and MB Housing. We have also added new activities for such as enhancing our Palliative Care program for Residents; creating a Working Group devoted to Quality Improvement strategies; Planning for the impacts of the WRHA Transition Care and Priority Home Care programs on levels of resident care; developing new methods for residents with dementia and behavioural problems; enhancing our Church outreach programs; refocusing our Spiritual Care Fundraising campaign to also emphasize monthly and legacy giving; staying the course for our attendance management program, and implementing the new WRHA Workplace Injury Prevention Program. As a faith based organization we continue to walk the tight rope between the changing laws and expectations of our secular society and government on the one hand and the voice of our conscience and Christian convictions on the other. Two examples are our position on Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) and the application process for Summer students. The Minister of Health, Active Living and Seniors, released the provincial policy on Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID), which the WRHA used to finalize their MAID Policy, which in turn forms the basis for our operational MAID policies for our Medical Staff and all other employees. We are pleased that the Minister has acknowledged and accepted the right of faith based organizations to opt out of providing MAID to our clients or allowing MAID on our premises. We remain committed to providing excellent physical, psychosocial and spiritual support to our residents and their families in the midst of challenging decisions at the end of life. Annually, we rely on Government funding for 2-3 Summer students to help out in Recreation and other resident focussed programming. On Dec 17 th the Government of Canada introduced a new demand in the summer student grants. In brief, organizations must check off an attestation on the application form that we respect individual rights, the Charter, Human rights and reproductive rights including the right to a safe and legal abortion. This has caused a lot of turmoil for our organization as it clearly contradicts our conviction that all life is sacred from the moment of 44 Mennonite Church Manitoba

45 related organizations conception to the natural end of life. We pray for wisdom and courage as we continue to navigate these changing realities in our social landscape. The percentage of residents of the Mennonite faith at Bethania MPCH as of Sept 2017 is 60%.This is slightly lower than the 62% from the previous year. The change may be due to the WRHA policy to admit residents from hospital before being able to admit from community or our waiting list for Bethania as first choice. The need to enhance the care and service delivery to the residents through volunteer support is ongoing. Many organizations that have relied on volunteers are now struggling to fill the new roles to meet new needs. Through our efforts to continue to recruit volunteers to fill positions, we also continue to look at gaps in skill set or expertise. Residents moving in to the long term setting have more complicated needs requiring volunteers to have additional training and staff support. Volunteers are valued as an asset to our team of caregivers. Recruitment is ongoing, but as we know, the most persuasive argument for joining any great team usually comes from someone already on it. Word of mouth works! 47% of people volunteer because someone they know is doing it. We hope that all of our members within the community will help us in recruiting volunteers. A combined total of 11,540 hours of volunteer time was dedicated to Pembina Place and Bethania Personal Care Homes. Spiritual Care programming at Bethania and Pembina Place included weekly English and German (Bethania) and ASL interpreted (Pembina) worship services in the Mennonite tradition as well as chapel services provided by United, Roman Catholic, Ukrainian Catholic, Anglican and Lutheran clergy. Special seasonal services include Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Pentecost, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Advent and Lent. Communion services are held quarterly with leadership from the Chaplain. Individual church groups also arrange communion services for clusters of congregational residents. Our dedicated volunteers provide support for communion, piano playing, assisting Residents to attend chapel and sing in choir groups from our churches. We are blessed to have this ongoing pastoral and volunteer support for our spiritual care. We are grateful for the continued strong commitment from congregations, pastors and their music groups for weekly Thursday and Sunday chapel services. The annual Dankfest was held on Oct. 15 th, 2017 with Michele Barr and the Springfield Heights MC Seniors Choir serving. The Schönfelder MC (Pigeon Lake) Men s choir blessed the Bethania residents and family members with a musical program on Nov. 30, were held to commemorate the residents who died. Bereavement support was provided by our chaplains for staff during periods of heavy losses in the PCH. Bereavement care is also provided by our chaplains at Funeral and Memorial services of residents. Our chaplains also provide support and leadership in the areas of Ethics and End of Life Care. At Bethania we hosted a clinical placement under Ferd s supervision for a Supervised Pastoral Education (SPE) student from the Interfaith Health Care Association of Manitoba (IHCAM) SPE program. Spiritual Care Referral training for all staff at both PCHs has resulted in an increased awareness for staff, residents and family members of the role of Spiritual Care in the holistic care of residents. Dignity in Care workshops for staff were also provided to enhance resident focussed care. The Bethania Mennonite Memorial Foundation is an going concern for the level of spiritual care donations. We completed year one of the Spiritual Care Fundraising Campaign and major activities included holding focus groups to help shape the strategy; branding the campaign as Share the Light; creating a promotional video and brochures and other marketing materials; training Board Directors in solicitation; sending funding requests to 23 Foundations; holding our Spiritual Care Dinner; sending our Christmas Appeal letter to 2,000 past supporters; securing media coverage in the Herald, Sou Wester and Winnipeg Free Press, and updating our website to making donating easier. We are very grateful to our families and residents who have named Bethania Spiritual Care for charitable donations in their memoria, and to all other supporters who donated during the year. This year we hope to secure larger annual donations from Major Gift prospects, and to promote legacy and estate giving from Mennonite community members who are unable to donate large amounts now due to fixed incomes. As we forge ahead we covet your prayers, your words of encouragement and your compassionate partnership in our joint ministry to the elderly. May God Bless our Residents and their Families, our Tenants, our Board, our Staff, our Membership, our Churches and our community. Respectfully submitted on behalf of the Bethania Group, Henry Neudorf, Board Chair Gary J. Ledoux, CEO Ferdinand Funk, Director of Spiritual Care / Chaplain Quarterly Memorial Services led by Ferd Funk and assisted by Selma Pauls at Bethania and Michele Barr at Pembina Place MCM Gathering March 2-3,

46 related organizations 2017 Annual report for Mennonite Church Manitoba Tobi Thiessen, Publisher Since 1953, Canadian Mennonite has been publishing the stories of our church family. We offer a broad range of articles, view and opinions, by church members from across the country. We also carry the voices of our church leaders and give space to issues being discussed at the nationwide church level. We are deeply grateful for the Every Home Plan that, since 1997, has allowed anyone who attends a Mennonite Church congregation to subscribe to the magazine. These days, a subscription can be print or digital. There is also a biweekly update called CM Now, plus a website with web-only content. Regional correspondents, like Nicolien Klassen-Wiebe for Manitoba, help us get local stories. Nicolien took over from Beth Downey Sawatzky in fall. Aaron Epp manages the Young Voices section, and writes many of the articles. Will Braun is our senior writer, based in Morden. In 2017, CM published 137 items about Manitoba, such as From Mexican Quaker to Canadian Mennonite by Aaron; Happy to find a safe place about asylum seekers by Will Braun; and In search of a collective narrative by Nicolien. Will s feature article Prodigal pastor was widely read among our online audience. His two articles about the Mennonites in Congo required extra effort to help us understand the plight of our brothers and sisters in the global church. Altona pastor Dan Kehler also had a feature in 2017, called Dependent on God s mercy. Ken Warkentin and Dorothy Fontaine contributed to the From Our Leaders column, and numerous individuals and churches sent in letters to the editor, articles or photos about activities in their communities. Church journalism is never without controversy, and this fall a paid insert from Maple View Mennonite Church expressing its position on same-sex relationships provoked considerable debate, as well as regret on CM s part over the hurt the insert caused to many readers. The following table gives a quick picture of how each Regional Church was represented in Canadian Mennonite in Mennonite Church Manitoba % of members in MC Canada* % of CM subscribers % of articles published % of letter writers % of CM website users # items published in CM** # of CM subscribers (print or digital) # of web visits BC 11% 5% 10% 11% 13% ,497 Alberta 4% 5% 8% 9% 11% ,173 Saskatchewan 9% 11% 11% 9% 7% 66 1,088 11,268 Manitoba 27% 29% 23% 23% 19% 137 3,158 29,497 Ontario & east 49% 49% 38% 49% 45% 214 5,205 69,860 * based on April 2017 MC Canada data ** includes print and online articles, viewpoints, letters, features, photos, news releases and columns Readers often say that Canadian Mennonite helps them feel connected to the broader church. We pray that will continue for many years. Thank you for your support!

47 related organizations CANADIAN MENNONITE UNIVERSITY Report from Canadian Mennonite University CMU is entrusted with its mission by the church, formally by the collaboration of Mennonite Church Canada and Mennonite Brethren peoples and extended through a wide ecumenical range of congregations who find resonance with Anabaptist commitments of faith and life Fall/Winter Enrolment Shaftesbury Campus 709 Students (FTE 610) 586 Undergraduate 71 Graduate 52 Outtatown Menno Simons College (CMU Programs at U Winnipeg) FTE 260 Shaftesbury Students 78 International students from 25 countries 75% Manitoba; 25% other provinces 42% Mennonite (MC, MB, EMC...) 43% Ecumenically Diverse (Baptist and Pentecostal to Catholic and Orthodox) 15% Disclose no church connection *FTE: Full-time equivalent students Dr. Rick Lindroth CMU Scientist in Residence Dr. Rick Lindroth is a Professor of Ecology at the University of Wisconsin- Madison (USA). His research focuses on evolutionary ecology and global change ecology in forest ecosystems. Dr. Lindroth reflected on the interplay of faith and science in chapels and forums, engaged students in classes, and presented an interactive public lecture. Science as a Way of Knowing: the Pursuit of Truth in a Post-Truth World CMU Scientist in Residence Steve Bell 2018 CMU PAX Award Recipient On April 5, CMU will recognize Winnipeg singer-songwriter Steve Bell with the 2018 CMU PAX Award. Bell is a musician, poet and storyteller whose music springs from the stories and yearnings of others, especially those seeking healing and hope. Bell s commitment to clean water access for Shoal Lake 40 First Nation brought together Indigenous, church, political and other groups, including CMU students. He has also been a strong voice urging the Canadian government to adopt Bill C-262, an act to ensure that Canadian laws are in harmony with the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. CMU Pastors in Residence Allysa Bender (Pastor at Hamilton Mennonite Church, Hamilton, Ontario) and Lee Kosa (Pastor of Cedar Park MB Church in Delta, BC) both served as CMU Pastors in Residence in the academic year. MCM Gathering March 2-3,

48 related organizations Academics and Vocation CMU is committed to bridge student passions, convictions, faith and career paths with the needs and opportunities of church and society. Academic studies link Biblical and Theological Studies with 18 different BA majors all while nurturing an imagination for the church. Students enrol in Arts (English, History, Psychology, Geography ), Biblical and Theological Studies, Environmental Science, Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics), Business, Communications & Media, Music and Music Therapy, International Development, Peace and Conflict Studies. CMU students move towards lives of service and leadership in medicine, farming, law, church ministry, business CENTRE FOR FAITH AND LIFE Centre for Faith and Life The CMU Centre for Faith and Life (CFL) links individuals, congregations and ecumenically diverse constituencies with the university s unique, nonformal, church engagement, and resourcing initiatives. Initiatives include: RESOURCING PASTORS FOR MINISTRY ReNew: Resourcing Pastors for Ministry conference focused on the theme Delighting in Scripture: Sola Scriptura at 500 Years. Keynote speakers included Tim Geddert (Professor of New Testament at Fresno Pacific), Meghan Good (Teaching Pastor at Trinity Mennonite Church, Glendale, AZ) and Gerald Gerbrandt (President and Professor Emeritus of Bible at CMU). face face: On Campus Community in Conversation Face2Face is an initiative opening community conversations at the intersection of faith and life. A November conversation reflected on the implications of the legalization of marijuana for communities and the church. A February conversation involved five CMU undergraduate students on the theme The Bible Tells Me so...doesn t it? A Conversation with Young Adults on the Tensions of Taking Scripture Seriously. Face2Face conversations are live-streamed and available via the web across Canada. sixpointeight sixpointeight is a new youth-gathering rooted in the call of Micah to do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with God. On Sunday, April 29, 2018 youth from many streams of the Mennonite family and beyond will gather at CMU for worship, fun, learning and community and to be inspired and equipped as peacebuilders in the way of Jesus. Celebrating Distinguished Alumni Four CMU alumni were recognized for the diverse ways in which their lives and work embody CMU commitments to service, leadership, and reconciliation. Henry Neufeld (CMBC 52) for a lifetime commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous peoples; John Longhurst (MBBC 79) for his exemplary work as a communicator, marketer, editor, and columnist; Ken Esau (MBBC 83) for many decades of teaching commitment at Columbia Bible College and in the wider church; Joanne Thiessen Martens (CMBC 96) for her ecological and organic agricultural research. This and That... Centre for Resilience The CMU Centre for Resilience (CFR), to be launched this spring, will enable social enterprises to extend their work through partnerships with the university s education, research and service and extend opportunities for CMU to make an impact in the community and church. The CFR is located on the 4th floor of CMU s historic north side building, and will also utilize land designated for ecological initiatives on the north-west parcel of CMU s property, adjacent to the CMU Farm. MHC Gallery In June 2017, the MHC Gallery was officially welcomed as part of the university and in that extended the peacebuilding commitments of faculty and students and the work of the Canadian School of Peacebuilding. In January, 2018, Ray Dirks, the Gallery s Curator, along with Manju Lodha, a member of Winnipeg s Hindu and Jain communities, were presented with the Lieutenant-Governor s Award for the Advancement of Interreligious Understanding for their efforts in building understanding between diverse faith communities. Mennonite Heritage Centre Archives A new partnership, led by CMU (and together with MC Canada and the Centre for Transnational Mennonite Studies), is helping the MHC Archives to enter a new and exciting chapter in service of the church and community. The MHC Archives is known to house among the best collections of Prussian, Russian, Canadian, and Global Mennonite historical documents in the country. 48 Mennonite Church Manitoba

49 related organizations Eden Health Care Services Report to Churches 2017 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6 The scripture above was my guiding light as I stepped into the new role of Eden Health Care Services Chief Executive Officer in June, I believe that it is important to have a firm intention of remaining true to its principles well into the future, to the benefits of the communities it serves. The scripture will also be a guiding light as we continue to anticipate the changes that are happening in our Province s health care system and the development of the Shared Health Services of Manitoba (SHSM). We are encouraged that both the Federal and Provincial governments have recognized that mental health and addictions are serious issues and that the numbers of those in need are in a constant rise. However, Eden continues to have funding challenges, due to its substantial growth as the communities needs increases and in turn, the increased demands for its mental health programs and services. In my short time at Eden, I have been impressed by the community and church support for Eden. This year, we saw record breaking numbers of participants and donations for the Tractor Trek and the Head for the Hills. Both have become a family event, where generations participated and enjoyed the events. Recovery of Hope participated in the Ride for Refuge to raise funds for the sliding scale program where they exceeded their fundraising goal. Eden also hosted two galas, in Winkler and Winnipeg, celebrating its 50 th Anniversary, as well, an opportunity to thank everyone who have supported Eden in the last 50 years. Eden will be publishing a book titled: Eden Health Care Services, 50 Years of Hope, Healing and Community. Eden desires to continue to ROAR Reach Out And Respond! We continue to look for ways to raise funds so that we can continue to provide programs and services to those in their mental health journey. The CARE program, through Recovery of Hope, is about the congregation s desire to provide professional counselling. We hope to further develop and grow this program so that we can reach out to more people. I am honoured to be a part of Eden. 50 years ago, Eden was started by those of faith, by those with a strong sense of responsibility and concern for the problems and injustices of society, by those who acted on the urging of their social conscience. Eden s establishment, growth and expanding outreach have served a purpose in demonstrating to others just what can be achieved through perseverance, steadfastness and love, when the cause is just one serve others. Eden has full appreciation of the efforts of all those who have worked so hard over the past 50 years to make Eden the organization it has become. We are grateful for our dedicated staff who are Eden s hands and feet, the Board Members who exhibits true and active volunteerism, our physicians who everyday gives the best standard of care, the communities for their support and the churches for their commitment and prayers. Eden is 50 years old. A milestone. It is an occasion to celebrate - an opportunity to momentarily look back and a golden ticket to chart the path forward. Respectfully Submitted By: Analyn Einarson, CEO Eden Health Care Services MCM Gathering March 2-3,

50 related organizations Manitoba Multifaith Council The purpose of the Manitoba Multi-faith Council (MMC) is to operate as a charitable organization for the purpose of promoting interfaith and multi-faith dialogue and understanding, to educate the public about world religions and to promote collaboration amongst people of faith in order to foster the well being of the community as a whole. The hope is to build a strong, supportive community that acts together on issues of common concern Spiritual beliefs and values are important to Canadians: Most Canadians, including a majority of those with no religious affiliation, believe in God or a universal spirit. In the face of physical and mental health challenges, people often rely on spiritual strengths - sources of meaning, hope, transcendence and connectedness. An abundance of evidence demonstrates that positive religious involvement and positive spiritual understanding are linked with enhanced physical and mental health outcomes, better coping, and greater quality of life including those with advanced disease. Spiritual health care is a rapidly evolving discipline, reflecting a growing recognition in many countries that it is a vital component of holistic, person-centered health care. Despite evidence of its effectiveness and potential to impact the economy and efficiency of the health care system, the spiritual dimension of health is often overlooked by clinicians and politicians and has been described by leading researchers as an untapped resource in the health care system s understanding of illness, health and healing. Manitoba Multi-Faith Council actively promotes Spiritual Health Care for all Manitobans. MMC advocates for spiritual care in all the health care institutions including hospitals, personal care, and penal institutions. Often this takes the form of meeting with governmental officials and reminding them that spiritual care is an integral part of the health care system. Currently, Peter Dyck represents MMC Council on the WRHA Spiritual Care Advisory Committee. One of the highlights of the year was a Dementia workshop held in November in which 90 people participated, including people from over 10 different religious backgrounds. It was a multi-faith experience, sharing a mutual communal concern which is affecting all of us at the present time. Submitted by Peter J. Dyck Member of Manitoba Multifaith Council 50 Mennonite Church Manitoba

51 related organizations REPORT TO MENNONITE CHURCH MANITOBA, Spring 2018 At MennoMedia and Herald Press we publish highly readable, thoughtful curriculum and books on Christian faith, discipleship, spirituality, reconciliation, and theology from an Anabaptist perspective. Our product lines reach a broad spectrum of readers from evangelical, mainline, and Anabaptist backgrounds and offer a third way approach between the sometimes contentious camps of the culture wars. Our Herald Press books target readers and thinkers who seek to live by Jesus-centered principles and values such as community, simple living, peacemaking, and social justice, as well as people who are curious about Amish and Mennonite communities. Our MennoMedia curricula and periodicals reach congregations that share these same affinities, and cultivate passion for faith formation and an active life of faith rooted in trusting God and following Jesus. NEW RESOURCES FOR THE ENTIRE CHURCH, FROM HERALD PRESS As a young Christian, Sarah Quezada had a heart for social justice. She was also blissfully unaware of the real situations facing today s immigrants. Until she met someone new... who happened to be undocumented. In Love Undocumented, Quezada takes readers on a journey deep into the world of the U.S. immigration system. Follow her as she walks alongside her new friend, meets with lawyers, stands at the U.S.-Mexico border, and visits immigrants in detention centers. With wisdom from Scripture, research, and these experiences, Quezada explores God s call to welcome the stranger. Available January $15.99 USD Your kids are spreading their wings. Are you ready? In Fledge, counselor, educator, and mother Brenda L. Yoder helps Christian parents navigate the many transitions of the launching years. How do you parent tweens at home and young adults away from home at the same time? What s a good balance between boundaries and freedom? How can you pray for your fledgling youth? And what do you do with all that mom grief? Your job as a parent isn t over; it s just changing. Equip yourself with biblical wisdom for this season of transition in your family life. Available March $15.99 USD The message of Jesus changed the world... until the world changed the message. Is a truncated and fragmented version of the good news masquerading as the full, forceful gospel of Jesus? A growing movement of truth-seekers and Jesus-lovers believe so, and they are calling for a return to the first and foundational message of Jesus. Dig into Scripture with Bruxy Cavey as he unfolds God s message for the world. Learn why you shouldn t follow the Bible but why you will want to read it to learn how to follow Jesus. Available in paperback May 8, $16.99 USD. Available now in hardback. $21.99 USD. A NEW WORSHIP AND SONG COLLECTION FOR OUR CHURCH A worship and song collection marks a particular threshold between where the church has been and where the Spirit of God may be leading. It earnestly and prayerfully looks forward. It preserves some of what is familiar while leaning into challenge and prophetic action, to continue to welcome and inspire worshipers new to the church and those who have been present for many years. As patterns of church life and identity shift from generation to generation, worship rhythms respond to this Spirit-led movement. HOW MUCH IS IT COSTING TO DEVELOP? It will cost between $600,000 and $700,000 to develop this collection before any sales are made. That includes expenses for a project director, editorial assistant, music editor, text editor, worship editor, and the 14-member volunteer committee working over three years to learn new songs, explore available resources, and consult on the best ones to keep or add to our worship lexicon. Consider a financial gift to come alongside the committee s substantial volunteer effort to bring this project to completion. Learn more, or make a gift via credit card, at MennoMedia.org/Resonate. MennoMedia and Herald Press PO Box 866, Harrisonburg, VA MCM Gathering March 2-3,

52 related organizations Annual Report to Churches Fall 2017 Darryl Loewen, Executive Director In 2017, MCC staff across the globe shared a prayer card with encouragement from Matthew 22: In this familiar conversation, Jesus names the two commandments upon which hang all the law and the prophets. We know these to be love for God with all heart, soul and mind and love for neighbour, as self. MCC answers these commands as expression of our faith in Jesus: relief, development and peace in the name of Christ. I am pleased to report highlights of MCC s work in Manitoba in 2017: Indigenous Neighbours Program - MCC responded to Canada s Truth & Reconciliation Commission by formally recognizing presence and acknowledging treaty relationship on Treaty 1 Territory. Held treaty celebration, public event at The Forks. MCC Thrift/Social Enterprise volunteers, 16 shops, and 14 governing boards continued to provide quality, low-cost goods and clothing around Manitoba. Provided approx. $3 million for international relief, development and peace programs. Increasing training through renovation to professionalize the kitchen at Sam s Place. Youth Engagement Program - Provided approx. 150 youths with pre-employment skill training at Sam s Place café. 25+ graduated to paid employment; 35+ received Food Handler s certification. Material Resources - Shared 55,000+ blankets, made in Manitoba, with disaster affected people. Shared thousands of hygiene, school and emergency kits. Migration & Resettlement - Supported many sponsor groups and newcomer families to adjust to life in Manitoba. Provided thrift shop vouchers and hygiene essentials for seekers of asylum. Low German Mennonite Services - Counselled Low German speaking people to access school, health and other services. Held two large group worship and cultural events in Winkler and Arborg areas. Peace & Advocacy - Launched A Cry for Home, an education and advocacy campaign response to call of Palestinian Christian partners in Middle East. Provided info and training for MCCs across country on injustice in Palestine and Israel. Learning Tour to Palestine and Israel, participants from across Western Canada. Abuse Response and Prevention - Seminars, learning events in churches/communities on topics including trauma, domestic violence, support for persons dealing with abuse, etc. Initiatives for Just Communities - Provided core funding for restorative justice programs: CoSA, Open Circle, Touchstone, El dad Ranch. Communications/Donor Relations - Related to thousands of volunteers and supporters who provide $10million+ for MCC. Facilitated Forced to Flee migration simulations for 500+ participants. MCC Manitoba seeks to grow closer to churches in meaningful ways. Each program listed above is staffed with skilled experts in their field. These MCCM staffers are eager to visit your church with education, presentations, sermons, etc. a range of topics that matter to your community. We want to join you to help meet the opportunities and challenges that are important to you. Please call or manitoba@mccmb.ca to talk more about how we can partner in mission. 52 Mennonite Church Manitoba

53 related organizations Mennonite Church Canada: our nationwide community of faith God calls us to be followers of Jesus Christ, and by the power of the Holy Spirit to grow as communities of grace, joy, and peace, so that God s healing and hope flow through us to the world This has been a year of transition. Yet in the midst of significant staff reduction and restructuring, we have continued to position ourselves so that God s healing and hope can flow through us to the world. Some of the program highlights of this past year: Indigenous-Settler Relations Formal Name Change We are excited to announce that Indigenous Relations has been formally re-named Indigenous-Settler Relations (approved by Joint Council, December 2017). The change seeks to communicate to constituency and the broader public that our nationwide work is an effort to renew and repair mutual relationships between both Indigenous and Settler peoples. UNDRIP and Bill C-262 In June 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission called all Canadian churches to engage the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) within our respective constituencies and the broader Canadian public (Call to Action #48). According to the TRC Final Report, the Declaration is so important that it should be understood as the framework for reconciliation in Canada. In response, Mennonite Church Canada s Indigenous-Settler Relations program has sought to mobilize the church in support of the Declaration through teach-ins, two book resources (Wrongs to Rights and Lifting Hearts off the Ground), the Pilgrimage for Indigenous Rights, the Fast for Indigenous Rights, and a postcard campaign of over 35,000 cards. A significant part of our education and advocacy efforts have been directed towards Bill C-262 An Act to Ensure that the Laws of Canada are in Harmony with the UNDRIP. A private members bill crafted by Romeo Saganash Cree Member of Parliament (NDP) and residential school survivor Bill C-262 would affirm that the Declarations minimum standards for the survival of Indigenous peoples have legal application in Canada. When Bill C-262 was initially introduced, many said that it would never get the support of the Government. Yet through the tireless work of grassroots advocacy including Christian Peacemaker Teams and Mennonite Church Canada the Government of Canada announced on November 20, 2017 that is it going to support the Bill. It is amazing news! We still have a ways to go before it receives royal assent and thus becomes law. Yet if passed, Bill C-262 will be a tremendous step towards the liberating justice that Jesus proclaimed for the oppressed (Luke 4:18-19). International Witness Our International Witness work has continued to remain strong with 19 workers through this past year. Some highlights this year include; Peacebuilders Community Inc, PBCI, responded to violence in Marawi City, Mindanao with 288 Peace & Reconciliation (PAR) monitors in the affected region. he newly formed Mennonite Church South Korea, MCSK, hosted its second annual Assembly in September. Witness worker Bock Ki Kim is leading an effort to plant a new Anabaptist/Mennonite church in Seoul. Mike & Cheryl Nimz are helping to start a new Anabaptist group in Birmingham, England. Nathan and Taryn Dirks (after 5 years) completed their ministry in Botswana, leaving a great impact in the whole country for having built the first Futsal/ sports park in Botswana. Mushroom cultivation was taught to women of the Grace Community of Churches (GCC) in South Africa. A brick making machine has also been purchased in collaboration with AIMM, MCC and MMN to help construct church buildings. MCM Gathering March 2-3,

54 related organizations Other workers include: Darnell & Christina Barkman (Philippines); Jeanette Hanson (Canada/ China); Lillian & Norm Nicolson (Burkina Faso); Jennifer Otto & Greg Rabus (Germany); Tom & Christine Poovong (Thailand); Hippolyto & Miriam Tshimanga (South Africa); George & Tobia Veith (China). Although we are not able to include highlights from all our workers, please check out further reports in the following link: by_worker CommonWord Report CommonWord is a unique and growing hybrid ministry embracing the resourcing needs of church, university and neighbourhood, local and national communities, Mennonite and ecumenical conversations by providing a fusion of services: curated resources to buy, borrow, or download availability of staff for resource consultation Submit a Cheaper by the Dozen order. We ll send you 12 different book titles on loan for an extended period again at no cost. A great way to supplement your church library, discuss a committee issue, or encourage reading! Set up a standing order and we ll do this on a regular 6-week cycle. Make your purchases through CommonWord. We special order most titles. And regularly discount most items. One congregation recently combined their families gift-giving for Christmas with a single purchase through CommonWord. One congregation supports their pastor s continuing education fund by having an account at CommonWord. One family gifted their loved one with a standing monthly order of book and coffee from Common- Word. We d be glad to talk about possibilities! Closing Thank you for continued financial support of the Regional Churches, which makes the work of the nationwide priorities possible. Willard Metzger We are grateful to report strong numbers in 2017 that reflect a growing ministry: Sales revenue, for the first 10 months of our current fiscal year, is up 27.6%. Online sales revenue is up 41%, including competitively priced MennoMedia titles and Mennonite Church Canada products. In 2018, 48% of items borrowed by congregations circulated outside Manitoba, including increases in MCBC, MCA and MCEC. 17.2% of all items borrowed in 2018 circulated outside Mennonite Church Canada, the highest percentage ever. Download totals increased 18% in 2018, including Community Developed titles contributed by congregations and others. Help bring CommonWord to your congregation: Connect leaders and readers to the 12,000 items at Friend us on Facebook and sign up to receive our electronic Curator. Certainly visit us if you re ever in Winnipeg. Request a display on a particular theme to match a worship or educational event. We ll help with the selection and send up to 20 loan books for free. 54 Mennonite Church Manitoba

55 related organizations Isaiah praises God with, you did awesome things we did not expect. Surely that could be our refrain at MCI too. We have existed for nearly 130 years now, and through the many triumphs and trials of those years God has provided students, teachers, patrons, and prayer supporters to make MCI the place it is, often in ways that were not expected. Our drop in enrolment 18 months ago unexpectedly forced us to re-examine our identity as a Christian school. This has resulted in strategic plans that emphasize recruitment, educational innovation, staff health, and strong residence life. The implementation of these plans is still in process, but we have a new director of student life this year, Paul Peters, who is providing excellent leadership to the residence and chapel programs and who will now turn more of his attention to recruitment. Our new business manager, Harold Schlegel, laid the groundwork for Paul s position last year, and is now working creatively to manage a challenging financial position while at the same time finding financial assistance for students whose families may not be able to afford the entire cost of Christian private education. This has resulted in an encouraging number of new students at MCI this year. Meanwhile, we are working to strengthen our connection with area churches and to be more specifically intentional about inviting students to follow Jesus. In an increasingly secular and materialistic world, the work of educating young people in an environment of Christian faith and to minister to them in ways that encourage them to choose and to grow as disciples of Christ is vital. Our daily chapels (and the examples of chapel leaders) keep the importance of our faith at the forefront. Our mentoring of residence students promotes growth in Christian maturity. Our service opportunities encourage students to be the eyes, ears, hands, and feet of Christ. The next couple of years are crucial ones for the school. Our enrollment dip shows most acutely in our grade 10 and 11 classes, so as that group moves through the system, we will continue to need more new students. 25 new enrollments in fall left us with a total of 63 this term. If this enrollment number repeats or improves, we will continue to increase our numbers over the next few years. In the mean time we will depend on more financial support and continued prayer support from the entire MCI community churches, families, alumni, and other supporters. We know God is faithful and at work in this place, and we trust that God will not only provide, but we know God is able to do awesome things beyond our expectations. In Christ, Bernie Loeppky Principal MCM Gathering March 2-3,

56 related organizations Westgate Mennonite Collegiate Dear Mennonite Church Manitoba delegates, As a related organization, it is our pleasure to partner with you all as individuals and congregations to train the next generation to hear God s call. Westgate Mennonite Collegiate is a Christian School grounded in the Anabaptist tradition. It is the mission of the school to provide a well-rounded education, which will inspire and empower students to live as people of God. Marla Langelotz, Sargent Avenue Mennonite Church pastor, helped dedicate our newly redeveloped campus as we celebrated and gave thanks to God for the many blessings that came our way. The October 29 event was well attended, with tours of the building offered after the ceremony. It is common for guests to drop in over the school day to see the school for themselves and we invite those who wish to visit to feel welcome. At a cost of $10.3 million, the project was $200,000 below budget, with about $ 3 million left to raise The school has 329 students enrolled. Some uncertainty about the completion date of the building project led to fewer applications for Grade 6 and Grade 7, however once the school opened on time several students have joined these grades since September. Families of our supporting churches will be invited to consider Westgate for the We are grateful to God for the unique opportunity we have to serve both the Mennonite Churches in Winnipeg and many other families who choose to attend Westgate. About half of the families are members from our churches. One quarter of the student body comes from various other denominations and many others from no faith community. It is a serious responsibility and a privilege to introduce these students to the call of discipleship and the love of God. Our school strives to keep 50% of our students from the Mennonite Community. We request your prayer and student support of this important church work for our youth. We see ourselves as an extension of the churches and desire to work together to train our youth. Submitted by: Brad Janzen Board Chairperson (Fort Garry Mennonite Fellowship) Bob Hummelt Principal (Sargent Avenue Mennonite Church) The Spiritual Life Committee has chosen Bridging Barriers to shape this year s Chapel addresses. Staff, guests and students will serve us over the course of the year during the first block of Tuesdays. Darryl Loewen, Executive Director of MCC Manitoba, served as keynote speaker through Special Emphasis Week. As a former teacher and principal of Mennonite Collegiate Institute, Darryl was able to engage the student body with stories and ideas that aligned with our Building Bridges chapel theme for the year. The following MCM congregations are supporting congregations of WMC: Home Street, Bethel, Hope, Charleswood, North Kildonan, Fort Garry, First, Springstein, Douglas, Springfield Heights, Jubilee, Sargent and Sterling. 56 Mennonite Church Manitoba

57 MCM Gathering March 2-3,

58 Listing of MCM staff and Board of Directors Office: Shaftesbury Blvd. Winnipeg, MB R3P 2J1 Phone: , fax: Website: Church Community Building Ministries: Ken Warkentin Executive Director Tom Seals Treasurer Darryl Neustaedter Barg Associate Director of Communications Camp Assiniboia 2220 Lido Plage Rd., Cartier MB, R4K 1A3; David Hogue, Camp Manager Katherine Hogue, Guest Group Coordinator Alfridie Braun, Food Services Coordinator Jake Fehr, Maintenance, Paul Dueck, General Assistant Camp Koinonia Box 312, Boissevain, MB, R0K 0E0 ; campkoinoniainfo@gmail.com Mission Ministry: Dorothy Fontaine - Director of Mission dfontaine@mennochurch.mb.ca Janet Peters - Associate Program Director for Camps jpeters@mennochurch.mb.ca Jesse Thiessen - Administrative Assistant camps@mennochurch.mb.ca Leadership Ministries: Rick Neufeld - Director of Leadership Ministries rneufeld@mennochurch.mb.ca Kathy Giesbrecht Associate Director of Leadership Ministries kgiesbrecht@mennochurch.mb.ca Dorothea Rempel Kampen Frohe Botschaft Producer Board of Directors Peter Rempel, Moderator, Winnipeg phrempel@gmail.com Collen Edmunds, Grunthal grunthal.berries@gmail.com Virginia Gerbrandt Richert, Altona abcvirginia@mymts.net Richard Klassen, Winnipeg richard.k@enduron.net Donna Peters-Small, Winnipeg donnapsmall@gmail.com Alex Tiessen alextiessen15@gmail.com Katrina Woelk katrina.woelk@gmail.com 58 Mennonite Church Manitoba

59 MCM Staff Photo Directory Dorothy Fontaine Director of Mision Kathy Giesbrecht Assoc. Dir. of Leadership Ministries Jesse Thiessen CwM Admin Assistant Janet Peters CwM Assoc. Program Director Rick Neufeld Dir. of Leadership Ministries Darryl Neustaedter Barg Assoc. Dir. of Communications Dorothea Rempel Kampen Frohe Botschaft Producer Ken Warkentin Executive Director Not Pictured: Tom Seals Treasurer MCM Gathering March 2-3,

60 MCM Staff Photo Directory cont. Camp Assiniboia David and Katherine Hogue Camp Manager and Guest Group Coordinator Alfridie Braun Food Service Coordinator Paul Dueck General Assistant Jake Fehr Maintenance 60 Mennonite Church Manitoba

61 MCM Board Photo Directory Coleen Edmunds Virginia Gerbrandt Richert Richard Klassen Donna Peters-Small Peter Rempel Alex Tiessen Katrina Woelke MCM Gathering March 2-3,