Mennonite World Conference (MWC) represents the majority of the global family of Christian churches rooted in the 16th century Radical Reformation in Europe, particularly in the Anabaptist movement.
MWC membership in 2018 included one international association and 107 Mennonite and Brethren in Christ national churches from 58 countries, with around 1.47 million baptized believers in close to 10,000 congregations. About 81% of baptized believers in MWC member churches are African, Asian or Latin American, and 19% are located in Europe and North America.
Churches are asked to plan an Anabaptist World Fellowship Sunday worship service close to Jan. 21 that will help them enter more fully into fellowship, intercession and thanksgiving with and for the global faith family. On that date in 1525, the first Anabaptist baptism took place in Zurich, Switzerland. Materials are available to help remember our common roots and celebrate our worldwide koinonia. Churches are invited to take a “one lunch” offering to support the networks and resources of our global Anabaptist church family.
Renewal 2027 is a 10-year series of events commemorating the 500th anniversary of the beginnings of the Anabaptist movement. Each year, local churches host the event in a different region of the world. One such event is Renewal 2027: Jesus Christ: Our Hope, March 28, 2020, Columbia Bible College, Abbotsford, B.C. A series of annual regional events will culminate at MWC Assembly 18 in 2027.
There are two major events ahead: Assembly Gathered, July 6-11, 2021, Semarang, Indonesia. The theme is Following Jesus together across barriers. Seguir a Jesús juntos, superando las barreras. Suivre Jésus ensemble à travers les frontiers. The Global Youth Summit is on July 2-5, 2021, Salatiga, Indonesia. The theme is Life in the Spirit: Learn. Serve. Worship.
Celebrating 50+ Years of Good Community Memories: A Collection of Recipes by Riverton Gospel Chapel 2018. Memories, appetizers and beverages, main dishes, desserts, and more. $15 (coil paperback). Continue reading EMC Resources and Books About or by EMC People→
STEINBACH, Man.— The EMC National office is pleased to announce that Ruth Block has joined the EMC National staff team. Ruth, who is from Steinbach, is the new Missions and Finance Assistant beginning in October. Continue reading Block, Reimer Begin New Roles on October 1→
Interested in writing as a columnist for The Messenger? We are seeking someone to provide at least six columns of 500 words (every other month) in a year to appear both in print and online. Topics are quite, but not totally open. Honorarium is provided. Please provide three samples of work, information on background and education, and describe active EMC church connection. Information and questions can be directed to editors at messenger@emconference.ca and 204-326-6401.
The EMC National Office is seeking a Missions and Finance Assistant to work as an active part of the office team. They should have a passion for Christ, the Church and missions. The ability to manage a varying schedule and assess and prioritize tasks is essential. An ideal candidate will be adaptable and be able to take initiative in identifying and resolving problems. They should be an excellent communicator who is confident interacting with people in person or through a variety of media. This position offers equitable pay and benefits with opportunity for professional development. For more information on this position and how to apply, go to our website http://www.emconference.ca/serve/. Applications will be accepted until Aug. 31 or until a suitable candidate is found. Anticipated start date is early fall.
OTTERBURNE, Man.—After 45 years of dedicated service, Gary Schellenberg retired from Providence University College and Seminary and on May 30, 2019, was among five people honoured at a Retirement Dinner (along with Hendrik van der Breggen, Daryl Climenhaga, Edmund Neufeld and Deborah van Duin). Gary was made Prov’s first ever Vice President Emeritus, a lifetime designation. Gary’s father, Rev. Dave K. Schellenberg, was the first editor of The Messenger (1963-1987) and a proud parent who found ways to include his children and grandchildren in its pages. Rev. Schellenberg likely would have been glad to see his son mentioned.
General Board concerned about gap between constitution and practice on women in leadership
by Terry M. Smith
COALDALE, Alta.—Conference council delegates on July 6, 2019, heard updates, voted to receive Coaldale Mennonite Church into membership, and took a straw vote on where EMC missions efforts might expand.Continue reading Coaldale MC Welcomed, Field Expansion Considered→
A publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference
