Intercultural Ecclesia: An Intentional Journey of Mennonite Church Eastern Canada

-Fanosie Legesse

I’ve often been asked to explain why we use the term intercultural to describe the Church. The word doesn’t appear in Scripture. It’s more commonly used in academic, political or business circles to describe respectful and meaningful engagement across cultures. 

So why use it for the Church? Because the Church has always been called to cross cultural boundaries—not just to include people from many backgrounds, but to build a shared life where those differences shape and enrich the whole. When Jesus spoke about His Church, He used a word that invites us to take this intercultural calling seriously. 

In Kind

In the summer of 2024, we began to receive in kind donations of fresh fruit and vegetables. These donations have made a huge difference on our camp grocery bills. And we as camp staff have felt supported by the donations themselves, and by the many, many people who chipped in to grow the produce, receive and store it along the way, pick it up, deliver it, prep and serve it, and later, return the empty bins.

Seasons of Creation

-Anthony G. Siegrist

We are in the middle of the Season of Creation. In the broad sweep of church history, the Season of Creation is a new thing. It was initiated by the World Council of Churches in 2008 following the proclamation of day of prayer for creation in 1989 by the Orthodox Ecumenical Patriarch Dimitrios I. The purpose of this liturgical season is to set aside a time “to renew our relationship with our Creator and all creation through celebration, conversion and commitment together.” 

I'm back!

As a Valaqua Staffer, of 20 years now, summer means something different for me than it does for most people. Camp summers are intense, chaotic, and awesome. However, they hold very little time for sitting in the shade with a book or enjoying a quiet evening with friends.   

Strengthening Connections Across the Church

MCEC welcomes Micah Peters Unrau in his new position as Church Engagement Associate. Micah is booking now for speaking engagements starting in October. This brand-new role is designed to deepen relationships and strengthen our shared ministry across MCEC.

As Church Engagement Associate, Micah will visit congregations to gather and share stories of creative ministry, highlighting how God is at work in congregations throughout our regional church.