Financial future encouraging

February 23, 2004
-by Dan Dyck

Winnipeg, Man.— Encouraging preliminary financial reports for 2003-04 show 99.8% of a $3.9 million donation budget has come in. The results are generating renewed hope for the possibilities of Mennonite Church Canada ministries, leaders say.

The numbers also suggest a renewed sense of ownership of MC Canada, and that financial recovery is the result of many people responding. “The reaction from all parts of the church, expressed in many different ways over the past year, has shown that people care deeply about this faith community,” said Dan Nighswander, general secretary. Primary sources of donation income are congregations, individuals, and corporate donors. “We are grateful for the support of so many people in response to God’s call,” added Nighswander.

Al Rempel, Director of Development, said there are many reasons to thank God for the faithfulness of the church. He noted how the donation and expense sides of the equation have been working in concert to encourage leaders. “There were specific donations to help rebuild reserves that were drawn down last year. Volunteers graciously gave time to help reduce costs of some activities,” said Rempel.

Henry Krause, moderator, said, “There were sacrifices and gifts made this past year by staff, volunteers, and leadership, and I am grateful for them all. This kind of dedication and belief in the church is what makes our denomination a community I am proud to be a part of. God is asking us to come on board with his vision for the world. It is exciting, challenging and important work God calls us to do.”