http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/ Mennonite Church Canada News Service en-us Copyright 2003-2012 Mennonite Church Canada news@mennonitechurch.ca (Dan Dyck) webmaster@mennonitechurch.ca (Grant Klassen) Tue, 10 Jan 2012 10:07:28 CST Tue, 10 Jan 2012 10:07:28 CST http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/img/logosm.gif http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/ 114 60 Mennonite Church Canada News Service Mennonite Church Canada News Krystofer Penner's studies in international development piqued his interest in food supply issues and drew his attention to Cuba and its established system of sustainable urban agriculture. That sparked a conversation with Mennonite Church Canada to explore internship possibilities with some of its church partners in Cuba. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2012/01/Release05.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2012/01/Release05.htm Tue, 24 Jan 2012 10:02:28 CST Separation does not always mean subtraction. In fact, for Mennonite Church Canada's partner in South Korea, the Korea Anabaptist Center, separating from Connexus, the English-language institute that it created in 2004, is becoming a multiplication factor for both. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2012/01/Release06.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2012/01/Release06.htm Tue, 24 Jan 2012 10:03:28 CST Stuart Murray, British author of the popular book The Naked Anabaptist: The Bare Essentials of a Radical Faith, will speak in Canada and the U.S. this spring. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2012/01/Release07.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2012/01/Release07.htm Tue, 24 Jan 2012 10:04:28 CST For years, Gerald Mast, a professor at Bluffton University, has been teaching that a Christian's life decisions should be made in consultation with other members in the church. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2012/01/Release08.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2012/01/Release08.htm Tue, 24 Jan 2012 10:05:28 CST Shaping Families, the 15-minute weekly radio program of MennoMedia, will tackle the effects of alcohol and drugs on the adolescent brain in February. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2012/01/Release09.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2012/01/Release09.htm Tue, 24 Jan 2012 10:06:28 CST In early January, Mennonite Church Canada Formation Consultant Elsie Rempel took up temporary residence in the guest house of the Brethren in Christ (BIC) regional offices in Choma, Zambia. Rempel is in Zambia's Southern Province for a three month service leave to mentor schoolteachers in the region's BIC Schools through a program supervised by Mennonite Central Committee Zambia directors, Eric and Kathy Fast. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2012/01/Release10.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2012/01/Release10.htm Tue, 24 Jan 2012 10:07:28 CST Kayla Thiessen bubbles with enthusiasm when she talks about her short term service experience via Mennonite Church Canada in Nazareth. The University of Manitoba graphic design student experienced life far away from her prairie home, learning about life in biblical times and sharing her faith with children and youth in the area. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2012/01/Release01.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2012/01/Release01.htm Tue, 10 Jan 2012 10:02:28 CST As we said farewell to Korea Anabaptist Center (KAC) staff before leaving for brief vacation in Canada last June, I asked Hee Joung what we could bring her from Canada when we returned in August. "Bring me a fiance," she responded. "He doesn't have to be rich or handsome as long as he is a Christian and is kind and generous!" http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2012/01/Release02.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2012/01/Release02.htm Tue, 10 Jan 2012 10:03:28 CST Nearly 100 congregations in Mennonite Church Canada and Mennonite Church USA are reporting on the songs they sing. They are helping to determine what the next collection of music for the church will look like. But the planners of the next hymnal or song collection are looking for more churches to participate in the current song survey. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2012/01/Release03.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2012/01/Release03.htm Tue, 10 Jan 2012 10:04:28 CST Shaping Families, the 15-minute weekly radio program of MennoMedia, begins its third year of broadcasting in January with 4 programs. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2012/01/Release04.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2012/01/Release04.htm Tue, 10 Jan 2012 10:05:28 CST After considering a number of options, the Christian Formation Council, at its October 2011 meeting, approved a cycle of Canadian youth gatherings which will see a stand-alone event held in Manitoba in 2013. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release16.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release16.htm Thu, 22 Dec 2011 10:07:28 CST Bangkok and the surrounding region continue to experience the worst flooding in Thailand's history. The flood crisis, which began in July, has left many districts in the central provinces and neighbourhoods to the east and west of Bangkok still under water in December. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release17.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release17.htm Thu, 22 Dec 2011 10:07:28 CST Mennonite Church Canada workers safe: The death toll from Typhoon Sendong on Dec. 18 could surpass 1,000, say reports coming from the affected Philippine island of Mindanao. As of Dec. 20, 927 are already reported dead, with over 800 still missing. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release15.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release15.htm Tue, 20 Dec 2011 14:07:28 CST Keeping supporters informed about workers engaged in international ministry has prompted Mennonite Church Canada to find a more efficient way of relaying up-to-date information. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release11.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release11.htm Mon, 19 Dec 2011 09:07:28 CST Melissa Miller, pastor of Springstein Mennonite Church southwest of Winnipeg, Man., will chair the eight-member bi-national board of MennoMedia, starting in January. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release12.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release12.htm Mon, 19 Dec 2011 09:08:28 CST Customers eager to preview and select Mennonite vacation Bible school materials won't have to wait quite as long this year. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release13.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release13.htm Mon, 19 Dec 2011 09:09:28 CST Filmmaker Burton Buller greets guests at a reception preceding the premiere of Waging Peace: Muslim and Christian Alternatives at Court Square Theater in Harrisonburg, Va., on Nov. 15. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release14.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release14.htm Mon, 19 Dec 2011 09:10:28 CST For Mennonite Church Canada Executive Director Willard Metzger, the 2011 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Durban, South Africa was an eye-opening experience that began with a twist of irony. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release10.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release10.htm Tue, 13 Dec 2011 15:07:28 CST Whether the scientists are right or wrong about climate change is no longer the issue, Willard Metzger told about a dozen Senators and Members of Parliament in Ottawa at a breakfast meeting on Oct. 25. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release01.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release01.htm Mon, 05 Dec 2011 15:07:28 CST The General Board of Mennonite Church Canada is seeking input as part of the next step in the Being a Faithful Church process. "Our next step is to understand how we currently use Scripture when we discern as a Mennonite community," explained Andrew Reesor-McDowell, Moderator. "This will create an important platform in building a shared framework for future discernment." http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release02.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release02.htm Mon, 05 Dec 2011 15:07:38 CST The 2012 Mennonite Church Canada Assembly will take place July 12-15 at the Sheraton Vancouver Airport Hotel. The assembly will be shaped as a study conference, with business sessions taking place only on the evening of Thursday, July 12. The Faith and Life Committee is planning a scripture study and discernment theme. A Sunday morning worship service will be open to all. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release03.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release03.htm Mon, 05 Dec 2011 15:07:48 CST In its Nov. 10-12 meetings, Mennonite Church Canada's General Board approved a recommendation to change the job titles of top level leadership staff in the national church office in Winnipeg. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release04.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release04.htm Mon, 05 Dec 2011 15:07:58 CST Andrew Suderman of St. Jacobs, Ontario remembers the first Christmas he spent in South Africa. "[It] felt rather strange, as we were celebrating Christmas in very warm temperatures," says Suderman, who along with his wife, Karen, is a Mennonite Church Canada Witness worker based in Pietermaritzburg, the capital of the South African province KwaZulu-Natal. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release05.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release05.htm Mon, 05 Dec 2011 15:08:08 CST The federal government's Bill C-10 - part of a wider crime omnibus bill - had already met opposition in Newfoundland, Quebec, Ontario, and British Columbia, by the time Manitobans rallied in opposition. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release06.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release06.htm Mon, 05 Dec 2011 15:08:18 CST As disturbing as sexual misconduct headlines are in newspapers, on radio and television, and online, the tragic scandals provide a good opportunity to address this critical issue in Christian homes and churches. Mennonite churches have several resources to help in that regard. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release07.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release07.htm Mon, 05 Dec 2011 15:08:28 CST Herald Press, the book imprint of MennoMedia, has re-issued three popular books, adding some updates and designing new covers. "We constantly evaluate our books with readers' preferences in mind," said Amy Gingerich, director of print media at MennoMedia. "It just so happened that all three of these important Herald Press titles received new covers and some new content at about the same time." http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release08.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release08.htm Mon, 05 Dec 2011 15:08:38 CST Two Christmas specials and a two-year anniversary program for Shaping Families are highlights of December's line-up for the 15-minute weekly radio program from MennoMedia. The programs will air on 18 U.S. radio stations and appear online. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release09.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/12/Release09.htm Mon, 05 Dec 2011 15:08:48 CST On November 16, 2011, Mennonite Church Canada Executive Staff approved a proposal to send $3500 for flood relief in Thailand. Funds were wired immediately. Mennonite Church Canada workers Pat and Rad Houmphan, with the congregation of Living Water Church in Borabu, will use the money to assemble care packages for those who have been displaced by flooding. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/11/Release03.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/11/Release03.htm Fri, 25 Nov 2011 08:07:28 CST Although a rich history of Mennonite/Anabaptist presence is evident in South Africa, Mennonite Church Canada workers Andrew and Karen Suderman discovered a lack of good quality Anabaptist resource materials for churches. The Sudermans, who work in collaboration with Mennonite Mission Network (USA) and Mennonite Central Committee colleagues to develop the Anabaptist Network in South Africa (ANiSA), decided to remedy that. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/11/Release01.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/11/Release01.htm Fri, 18 Nov 2011 09:07:28 CST Lifelong pastor and educator Palmer Becker has embarked on another short-term mission assignment to Asia with Mennonite Church Canada. From Nov. 6 to Dec. 9, Becker is sharing his vision for shaping leadership with Anabaptist church leaders. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/11/Release02.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/11/Release02.htm Fri, 18 Nov 2011 09:07:38 CST The third biennial "Going Barefoot" conference for faith-based communicators took place on the campus of Canadian Mennonite University (CMU) in Winnipeg Man. on Oct. 14, 2011. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release14.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release14.htm Mon, 31 Oct 2011 09:07:28 CST A new one-hour documentary produced by MennoMedia's film department, Third Way media, explores threads of peacemaking in the Christian and Muslim faiths through the centuries and shows how Muslims and Christians today are working for peace. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release15.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release15.htm Mon, 31 Oct 2011 09:07:38 CST A Herald Press devotional book, Take Our Moments and Our Days, has been selected as Worship Leader magazine's "best of the best" in the team devotionals category for 2011. The magazine published the winners list in its Oct. 7 issue. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release16.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release16.htm Mon, 31 Oct 2011 09:07:48 CST Shaping Families, the 15-minute weekly radio program of MennoMedia, will feature an exclusive interview with the writer/illustrator of the Berenstain Bear books for children on Nov. 5, 2011. Programs in November also address alcoholism, caring for aging parents, and food preservation. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release17.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release17.htm Mon, 31 Oct 2011 09:07:58 CST Jeff Warkentin's passion for God shaped a life defined by service and relationships. As son, brother, husband, father, teacher, pastor, mission worker, musician and friend, he reflected God's grace and love to all whom he encountered. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release08.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release08.htm Thu, 20 Oct 2011 09:07:28 CST Churches consume a lot of coffee. There are committee meetings, coffee and fellowship times before or after worship, potlucks, staff meetings - thousands of cups of coffee are consumed at churches each week. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release09.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release09.htm Thu, 20 Oct 2011 09:07:38 CST Mennonite Church Canada has welcomed the addition of a short term volunteer and four new staff members - one of whom is in a newly created job position shared with Mennonite Church Eastern Canada. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release10.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release10.htm Thu, 20 Oct 2011 09:07:48 CST MennoMedia staff members brainstorm a possible new product focused on building biblical literacy during their first-ever all-staff gathering Sept. 23-25. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release11.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release11.htm Thu, 20 Oct 2011 09:07:58 CST The recent 10-year commemorations of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks examined how the world has changed as a result, with many commentators noting profound distrust and animosity among some Christians and Muslims. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release12.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release12.htm Thu, 20 Oct 2011 09:08:08 CST Non-Mennonites and Mennonites alike are buying more locally produced foods that are in season and eating more healthily, thanks in part to a cookbook first published in 2005. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release13.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release13.htm Thu, 20 Oct 2011 09:08:18 CST Delegates responded to the Being a Faithful Church 3 process with over 750 recorded comments at the 2011 Mennonite Church Canada Assembly in Waterloo this past summer. About 800 adults and youth attended the event. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release01.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release01.htm Tue, 04 Oct 2011 09:08:18 CST On September 30, 2011, Canadian Mennonite University honoured Ray Dirks as its 2011 CMU Blazer Distinguished Community Service Award winner. Dirks is curator of the Mennonite Heritage Centre Gallery, a ministry of Mennonite Church Canada. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release07.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release07.htm Tue, 04 Oct 2011 09:18:18 CST A young girl stood next to the brick wall at Winkler's Bethel Heritage Park. "Why are these bricks here?" she asked her mother. The monument for conscientious objectors to war stands on the opposite side of the park from the monument to war veterans, mirroring tensions still felt in some families and the wider community. Some observers commented that honouring both in the one park represents a continuing dialogue on this important topic. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release02.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release02.htm Tue, 04 Oct 2011 09:28:18 CST Visiting the historic city of Xi'an (She-ann) in July, we were struck by how much a strong defence against enemies was on the mind of the ancient Chinese. First there is Xi'an's old city wall. Built in 1370, this 14-kilometer-long fortress of masonry and brick is an imposing site. It looms 12 meters high and 18 meters wide at the base, with massive wooden doors sealing its multi-arched gates. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release03.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release03.htm Tue, 04 Oct 2011 09:38:18 CST John Howard Yoder, the late Mennonite theologian, authored 25 books, inspiring many others to write books and research papers about Yoder and his ideas. A scholar of Yoder's ideas has researched all the written materials left by Yoder on the subject of capital punishment. The scholar's name is John Nugent, and his new book, published by Herald Press in September, is titled The End of Sacrifice: The Capital Punishment Writings of John Howard Yoder. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release04.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release04.htm Tue, 04 Oct 2011 09:48:18 CST Adults wanting to make fresh connections between the Bible and daily living have a new study option. With the Word is a new series of Bible studies focused on individual books of the Bible, with accompanying devotions on the same text and theme. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release05.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release05.htm Tue, 04 Oct 2011 09:58:18 CST Shaping Families, the 15-minute weekly radio program of MennoMedia, will deal with tough issues in October: bipolar illness, child abuse, understanding other faiths, housing options for aging, and men's spirituality. The programs appear online for Canadian listeners. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release06.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/10/Release06.htm Tue, 04 Oct 2011 09:08:18 CST Jeff Warkentin, age 32, passed away suddenly on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2011, in Calgary, Alberta, after a brief bout with meningitis. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release11.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release11.htm Tue, 27 Sep 2011 09:08:18 CST It's a story that seems so impossible, you can't really believe it, even when you hear it for yourself. A 36 year old nurse by profession, Hon. Shirlyn Macasarte comes from a family that has been heavily involved in politics since she can remember. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release04.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release04.htm Tue, 20 Sep 2011 09:08:18 CST The first ever Canadian shipment of fair trade coffee from Coffee for Peace - the Philippines based peace ministry of Mennonite Church Canada worker JoJi Pantoja - is now being offered on a first-taste basis to Mennonite Church congregations and their members. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release05.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release05.htm Tue, 20 Sep 2011 09:13:18 CST Congregations throughout Mennonite Church Canada and Mennonite Church USA are being asked this fall, winter, and spring to keep track of all the songs they sing. Their research will help determine what the next collection of music for the church will look like. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release06.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release06.htm Tue, 20 Sep 2011 09:18:18 CST Thousands of Mennonites have grown up with the tasty recipes and progressive ideas of More-with-Less Cookbook. Thousands of people beyond Mennonite circles bought the book as well, leading to the startling phenomenon of those who became Mennonite because of a cookbook. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release07.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release07.htm Tue, 20 Sep 2011 09:23:18 CST Shaping Families, a 15-minute weekly radio program produced by MennoMedia, ties in with America's "National Recovery Month" in September. Interviews centre on recovery from drug abuse. The first program, "Living in Recovery," airs the weekend of Sept. 10 and features Christopher Kennedy Lawford, son of Pat Kennedy of the famous Kennedy clan, and actor Peter Lawford. He speaks about his addiction to drugs and ongoing recovery. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release08.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release08.htm Tue, 20 Sep 2011 09:28:18 CST Under normal circumstances, 250 Close to Home pamphlets might last quite a while at Tedrow Mennonite Church. But last month the congregation, in Tedrow, Ohio, gave them all away in one day. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release09.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release09.htm Tue, 20 Sep 2011 09:33:18 CST The Scottdale Pa. building that served as a long-time home to Mennonite Publishing Network (MPN), the former publishing ministry of Mennonite Church Canada and Mennonite Church USA, will re-open as a church facility. The landmark building was sold to Wellspring Church on Aug. 12. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release10.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release10.htm Tue, 20 Sep 2011 09:38:18 CST 'When have you experienced a time where you needed to see to believe?" Dramane responded quickly to this question based on John 20:29. When Dramane, a non-Christian, had been seriously ill, his friend, Lassina, a Christian, prayed for him. When God healed Dramane, Dramane knew that Jesus was the way. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release01.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release01.htm Wed, 07 Sep 2011 12:08:18 CST In a park near Macau Mennonite Church, a group of mainly women can be seen daily moving in unison, offering rhythmic praise in a form unlike a typical Sunday morning service. To the left they sway, gracefully swirling their arms to the music, toward the sky, and then the same motion to the right. Forward they step, arms pumping, like synchronized swimmers on land. They smile as sweat beads cool their foreheads. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release02.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release02.htm Wed, 07 Sep 2011 12:38:18 CST In the early days of January 2011, an idea for something new caught hold of Susan Kehler and wouldn't let go. Kehler, a member of Emmanuel Mennonite Church in Abbotsford BC, had just finished reading "Gifts of the Church for a New Year," an article from Mennonite Church Canada General Secretary Willard Metzger, published in the Jan. 10 issue of Canadian Mennonite. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release03.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/09/Release03.htm Wed, 07 Sep 2011 13:08:18 CST Juan Francisco Duran Ayala's body was found shortly after midnight on June 4th. He had been shot twice in the head. When the Medical Examiner declared his body 'unidentifiable,' he was buried in a common grave in San Salvador. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release09.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release09.htm Fri, 26 Aug 2011 09:32:30 CST Recently, I went next door to the internet cafe to send off some rather heavy emails (my home connection is just too weak). As I was working, I heard a rising rabble of voices out on the side of the boulevard. At one point the shouting reached a crescendo making me wonder whether violence was going to follow. What was happening I wondered? I decided it was time to get out of there! http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release10.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release10.htm Fri, 26 Aug 2011 09:42:30 CST Willard Metzger, General Secretary of Mennonite Church Canada is inviting you to a Global Leadership Summit - but you don’t have to be an official leader to attend. He says the Sept. 29-30 simulcast conference will be a great way for churches to kick-off the fall. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release11.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release11.htm Fri, 26 Aug 2011 09:53:30 CST Living 10 years in Latin America, where one inevitably encounters poverty and is therefore affected by it, has shaped my life, my priorities, and my thinking. What's more, I was lucky enough not to live at arm's length from those who were poor. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release12.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release12.htm Fri, 26 Aug 2011 10:04:30 CST Humbling was the feeling that best described Willard Metzger's experience of worshiping with Lutherans at the national convention of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada (ELCIC), July 14-17. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release06.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release06.htm Mon, 15 Aug 2011 13:00:00 CST "The sad thing is, the churches are too quiet," writes Kyong-Jung Kim, Director of the Korea Anabaptist Center. "Either they don't pay attention to this or they don't want to step on boundaries that are not welcome by government." http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release04.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release04.htm Mon, 15 Aug 2011 13:00:00 CST Fifty-one Mennonite Church congregations have committed to getting friendlier to the environment - but only eight are from Mennonite Church Canada. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release01.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/078/Release01.htm Mon, 15 Aug 2011 13:00:00 CST A picture book about a porcupine who learns how to deal with losing her precious quills is the latest release from Herald Press. The 40-page book is titled simply "Quills". http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release03.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release03.htm Mon, 15 Aug 2011 13:00:00 CST Friends of Alan and Eleanor Kreider wanted to publish a book in honour of them as veteran teachers, authors, and missionaries. But when the Kreiders got wind of the project, they insisted that the book had to be useful to today's Christians. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release02.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release02.htm Mon, 15 Aug 2011 13:00:00 CST How can congregations offer supportive care for members with significant disabilities - and their families? http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release05.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release05.htm Mon, 15 Aug 2011 13:00:00 CST People with disabilities are often cared for by their parents. So what happens when the parents grow old and die? http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release08.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release08.htm Mon, 15 Aug 2011 13:00:00 CST Nhien Pham has been ministering in Canada for 30 years, but finds more open and fertile ground for the gospel in Vietnam. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release07.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/08/Release07.htm Mon, 15 Aug 2011 13:00:00 CST "Let's make a difference!" the kids sang out at Mennonite Church Canada's Children's Assembly on the morning of July 7, 2011. The children and junior youth gathered for Assembly 2011 were being encouraged to focus on others who follow the dreams God puts in their hearts. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release01.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release01.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:00:00 CST When Pam Bartel, Administrative Assistant of Student Services at Conrad Grebel University College, was invited to pull together some young adult events for Mennonite Church Canada Assembly 2011, she received encouragement to "think outside the box" and include local area young people in her plans. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release02.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release02.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:00:10 CST John Neufeld was the senior scholar among those expounding Revelation at Mennonite Church Canada Assembly 2011, July 4-8 in Waterloo. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release03.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release03.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:00:30 CST The account of Jacob wrestling in Genesis 32 is an analogy for Bible study, said Derek Suderman in his seminar, "Wrestling with Scripture: Moving from Biblical Illiteracy to Biblical Engagement." http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release04.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release04.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:00:40 CST As the bicentennial of the War of 1812 approaches, the Niagara region of Ontario is abuzz with preparations to remember with a variety of events including battle re-enactments, period food, discussions and tours. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release05.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release05.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:00:50 CST Paper planes may not fly themselves to Ottawa, but with help from Canada Post, these planes will deliver a message to Stephen Harper: Spend less money on war. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release06.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release06.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:01:00 CST Drivers, bikers, passers-by, cyclists, and a Fed-Ex courier honked and flashed the two fingered peace sign to our small group of peace pray-ers. As a virtue, peace is a value that's hard to disagree with. But how to live it has many different expressions. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release07.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release07.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:01:10 CST Stand up, raise your arms above your head, bring them down a little, now just hold that position, keep holding, keep holding - how are your muscles feeling now? Instructions you might expect to hear at a boot camp, but these exercises were designed to strengthen the peace builder's mind, not muscles. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release08.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release08.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:01:20 CST Though many Mennonites have been involved in or supportive of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), many say they feel God must be brought into the equation through prayer for their First Nations brothers and sisters. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release09.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release09.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:01:30 CST Under the rubric of Reframing Anabaptism, Jeremy Bergen, Associate Professor of Religious Studies and Theology at Conrad Grebel University College, addressed the topics "Unlearning Anabaptism" and "Learning Anabaptism" at this year’s Mennonite Church Canada Ministers' Conference, held Monday at Conrad Grebel University College. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release10.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release10.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:01:40 CST John Wideman knows how unnerving it can be to step outside of one's comfort zone - and he drew from that knowledge to write a thought provoking one-act play, This Prison or: He Came Through the Floor. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release11.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release11.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:01:50 CST "We are the church!" declared Willard Metzger, General Secretary, inviting progressively younger age groups to join with him in an ever louder cheer. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release12.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release12.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:02:00 CST A challenge issued by his classroom of high school students in San Juan, Puerto Rico some thirty years ago sparked Nelson Kraybill's ongoing fascination with the book of Revelation. In 2010, he published Apocalypse and Allegiance: Worship, Politics, and Devotion in the Book of Revelation (Brazos Press, Grand Rapids MI). http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release13.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release13.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:02:10 CST Loren Johns has produced a wide range of scholarship studies, from diversity and unity in the church to pastoral ministry and studies of Revelation. In an email interview, the Professor of New Testament at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary in Elkhart, IN and one of three keynote speakers at Assembly 2011, wrote that the breadth of his research interests reflects his interest in the life of the church. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release14.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release14.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:02:20 CST On Tuesday, July 5, 2011, the seminar "On the Hot Seat" gave youth a chance to ask questions of Mennonite Church Canada leadership, though they didn't get the clear answers they hoped for. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release15.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release15.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:02:30 CST On June 15, 2011, in Mississauga, Ont. Willard Metzger, Mennonite Church Canada's General Secretary, won two Word Guild Canadian Christian Writing Awards for a book he co-wrote with Karen Stiller. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release16.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release16.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:02:40 CST "The sower went out to sow." With these words, Pastor Terry Zimmerly walked throughout the lawn chairs and picnic blankets nestled under the trees of a downtown park, and scattered Mennonite Church Canada's Generosity Report among the worshipers at a joint service of Hope Mennonite Church and Home Street Mennonite Church in Winnipeg on June 26. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release17.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release17.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:02:50 CST During his financial report on the morning of July 6, Randy Wiebe, Chief Financial Officer for Mennonite Church Canada, graciously thanked congregations, corporate, and individual donors for their support, noting that as of May 31, giving was $2,000 ahead of projections for the first four months of the current fiscal year. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release18.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release18.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:03:00 CST Stuff. We have lots of it, and it isn’t going away anytime soon. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release19.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release19.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:03:10 CST Traveling to Haiti to help with rebuilding sounds like a great service trip right? Maybe, maybe not - that was the message at Mennonite Church Canada's July 7th seminar, "Serve - But With Your Eyes Wide Open" seminar. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release20.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release20.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:03:20 CST Although the tsunami-affected area is still covered in debris, footsteps of recovery are gradually being heard. So said Takanori Sasaki, chair of the Japan Mennonite Fellowship (JMF) to a Mennonite World Conference (MWC) delegation to Japan http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release21.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release21.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:03:30 CST In 2007, Mennonite Church Canada delegates passed a resolution to work for more sustainable gatherings. Mennonite Creation Care Network has worked with assembly planners in subsequent years to provide guidelines for greening and to assess events. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release22.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release22.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:03:40 CST Each Sunday, Alice arrives at church in a Handi-Transit van with Marie or another assistant to wheel her into the sanctuary. She has become a regular face in the congregation, but only a few people - the same ones each Sunday - stop to say "hello" or ask how her week has been. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release23.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release23.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:03:50 CST The great commandment states in part to "love the Lord your God with all of your heart, soul and mind," but for Gayle Gerber Koontz, it's easier said than done, especially if you don't have your mind. In a Mennonite Church Canada Assembly 2011 seminar entitled "Life Flows On: Church Families and Mental Illnesses," Gerber Koontz recounted stories of her family members who have struggled with mental illness. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release24.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release24.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:04:00 CST Many people struggle emotionally, physically or mentally at some point in their life and turn to the love and support of their congregations to deal with grief and pain. But for some people, that kind of care may seem elusive or even withheld. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release25.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release25.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:04:10 CST The Truth and Reconciliation Commission's (TRC) national events began in July 2010 at The Forks in Winnipeg. The goal of this process, which will be ongoing for a number of years, is to hear and work for healing of the legacy of pain left by Canada's Indian Residential Schools. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release26.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release26.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:04:20 CST The Mennonite Church Canada Assembly in 2012 will mark the start of a two year cycle of national church gatherings, followed by assembly 2014, 2016, and so on. While the motion to make this change passed with a strong majority at Assembly 2011, some delegates were not enthused about meeting biennially. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release27.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release27.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:04:30 CST At Mennonite Church Canada's 2011 Assembly in Waterloo, delegates approved a bylaw change that would reduce the quorum required for Mennonite Church Canada national assemblies. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release28.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release28.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:04:40 CST On July 5, 2011, delegates to Mennonite Church Canada Assembly 2011 affirmed that we need to let the Holy Spirit lead us in discerning matters of sexuality. Hopefully we can land on the beach and burn our boats behind us, said Dave Tiessen of Community Mennonite Fellowship, Drayton, Ont., in describing the approach to the dialogue on human sexuality. If we dont burn our boats, planning to sail away again if the dialogue doesn't go our way, then we are not letting the Spirit lead. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release29.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release29.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:04:50 CST The Harmony Motion on Human Sexuality was referred to the "care of the General Board" by its mover, Ben Borne, at the Mennonite Church Canada delegate session on Thursday, July 7, 2011. The General Board will now work at incorporating the Harmony Motion into the Being a Faithful Church 3 (BFC 3) discernment process on matters of human sexuality. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release30.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Release30.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:05:00 CST Pastor Jim Loepp Thiessen receives a wall plaque symbolizing The Gathering Church's new membership in Mennonite Church Eastern Canada, and by extension, Mennonite Church Canada. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Photo31.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/07/Photo31.htm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:05:10 CST When Elizabeth Weber came to Winnipeg last fall to participate in a Young Adult Leadership Think Tank with Mennonite Church Canada and Mennonite Church USA, she had no idea that it would lead to the role of Children's and Junior Youth Assembly Coordinator for Assembly 2011. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/06/Release04.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/06/Release04.htm Thu, 23 Jun 2011 13:00:12 CST On May 9, 2011, Coffee for Peace exported their first shipment of coffee beans to Canada. Coffee for Peace (CFP) is the initiative of Joji Pantoja who with her husband Daniel, is a Mennonite Church Canada worker in the Philippines through their ministry, Peacebuilders Community Inc. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/06/Release01.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/06/Release01.htm Wed, 15 Jun 2011 09:00:12 CST Some final steps of the ministry and 2011 staff reduction process at Mennonite Church Canada have been taken as administrators approach their deadline of living into a smaller system beginning August 1. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/06/Release02.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/06/Release02.htm Wed, 15 Jun 2011 09:10:12 CST On June 1, Anna Weaver, Kurt Ferdinand, and Lois Priest (left to right) prepared the first box of Herald Press books to be shipped from the Harrisonburg, Va. location that will serve as the new headquarters for MennoMedia. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/06/Release03.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/06/Release03.htm Wed, 15 Jun 2011 09:20:12 CST Preparations to attend Mennonite Church Canada's Youth and Adult Assembly 201l in Kitchener/Waterloo July 4-8 are ramping up - including preparations by partner service organizations. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release13.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release13.htm Mon, 30 May 2011 10:00:12 CST As a young Christian man actively involved in the struggle against apartheid in South Africa, Mpho Putu knew that some of the movement's protest songs included themes of revenge killing that posed challenges to what it means to be a faithful disciple of Jesus. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release14.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release14.htm Mon, 30 May 2011 10:10:12 CST As a young seminary graduate in 1995, Timothy Zhang became pastor of the Anjing church. With few material resources, a common reality in rural church settings where most families are subsistence farmers, the Anjing church had little support to offer him. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release15.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release15.htm Mon, 30 May 2011 10:20:12 CST Anthony Martin of Ephrata, Pa., is the winner of a T-shirt design contest that commemorates the release of the 30th anniversary edition of Living More with Less and the creation of a website for the book. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release16.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release16.htm Mon, 30 May 2011 10:30:12 CST Worshippers at Home Street Mennonite Church in Winnipeg were unexpectedly confronted with a peace demonstration at their main entrance on Sunday, Mar. 29. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release07.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release07.htm Mon, 16 May 2011 05:00:12 CST Approximately 100 faith leaders representing 14 denominations and faith-based organizations - including Willard Metzger, General Secretary of Mennonite Church Canada - met in Toronto from May 1-3 for the Ecumenical Mining Conference. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release08.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release08.htm Mon, 16 May 2011 05:00:12 CST It's often difficult to describe the fact that we work for Mennonite Church Canada as many in South Africa do not know who the Mennonites are. So when people ask, we either have to give a brief description of our work with the Anabaptist Network in South Africa (ANiSA) or a longer version that describes the 500 year history from which we come. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release09.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release09.htm Mon, 16 May 2011 05:00:12 CST In many traditional cultures, elders are older people who are revered as keepers of wisdom. In North America's current youth-glorifying, post-everything-on-line culture, older people are sometimes viewed as those who have been left behind. Yet those who are in the first third of life still long for understanding, encouragement, wisdom, and blessing from those who are in the last third of their lives. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release10.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release10.htm Mon, 16 May 2011 05:00:12 CST Tucked at the back of the Bible, just before the book of Revelation, the three letters of John may not get much notice. Author J.E. McDermond thinks they warrant the modern church's attention. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release11.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release11.htm Mon, 16 May 2011 05:00:12 CST Three days before the official release date of May 2 for Mennonite Girls Can Cook, Herald Press officials were already ordering a reprint. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release12.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release12.htm Mon, 16 May 2011 05:00:12 CST While some creative arts like prose and hymnody have been accepted as natural forms of expression and worship in Mennonite churches, visual arts are often viewed with less certainty. For painters, sculptors and other artists who craft for the eye, this can be disheartening. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release05.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release05.htm Wed, 04 May 2011 05:00:12 CST Like many pastors, Donita Wiebe-Neufeld, who co-pastors First Mennonite Church in Edmonton with her husband Tim, enjoys creating space for creative gifts to flourish. "It's totally selfish. I love working with people like that," she says in a telephone interview. Her enthusiasm is evident in her voice. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release06.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release06.htm Wed, 04 May 2011 05:10:12 CST Over $15,000 in pledges were raised by the members of Mennonite Church Canada councils and boards during the Spring Leadership Assembly which took place March 2-4 in Winnipeg. The call for this group of volunteers who are already so generous with their time to pledge financial support came from Waldo Neufeld, a member of Witness Council. When asked what prompted the idea, he said that over his years of working for the church he has come to feel that "...if we believe in what the church is doing, we need to support it." http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release01.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release01.htm Mon, 02 May 2011 05:00:12 -0600 A ministry providing a solid economic and ecological foundation for peace in the Philippines has garnered front page headlines for Mennonite Church Canada workers Daniel and Joji Pantoja. The three page feature, Coffee for Peace: A Love Story by Patmei Bello Ruivivar, appears in the March 26 print issue of the Mindanao Times, a daily newspaper with a circulation of 10,000. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release02.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release02.htm Mon, 02 May 2011 05:00:12 -0600 Spring is the anxiety season for Chinese university seniors. Many leave school during the second semester to search for that coveted but elusive job. And if they do find one, it can be a long way from their dreams. As Mennonite Church Canada workers teaching English at Sichuan University of Arts and Science, Julie and I witness their frustration first-hand. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release03.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release03.htm Mon, 02 May 2011 05:00:12 -0600 Russ Eanes, director of finance and operations for Mennonite Publishing Network (MPN), the publishing agency of Mennonite Church Canada and Mennonite Church USA, will become executive director of MennoMedia on July 1. He will move to Harrisonburg, Va., where the head office of the new agency formed by merging MPN and Third Way Media will be located. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release04.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/05/Release04.htm Mon, 02 May 2011 05:00:12 -0600 Based on past experience, Christian educator Lucinda Stevens was eager to order Mennonite Publishing Network's 2011 Vacation Bible School curriculum, Taste & See: God is Good. Stevens, assistant director of The Resource Center in Richmond, Virginia, ordered Taste & See prior to an annual VBS workshop in February. "People at our center specifically ask for MPN's materials," says Stevens. "They expect MPN to offer good quality, biblically sound materials that work well across denominational lines." http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/04/Release07.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/04/Release07.htm Mon, 18 Apr 2011 07:40:12 -0600 When Mennonite Publishing Network and Third Way Media merge on July 1, the new agency will be called "MennoMedia." That was the decision of the board that now governs MPN and which will govern the new integrated agency. The eight-member bi-national board voted unanimously to approve the name on April 8 during its quarterly meeting in Harrisonburg, Va., where the main offices of MennoMedia will be located. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/04/Release10.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/04/Release10.htm Mon, 18 Apr 2011 07:50:12 -0600 Difficult decisions about a smaller ministry and staff at Mennonite Church Canada were announced to staff here on April 11. The re-organization will see a net budget reduction of $415,000 in hard and soft costs beginning on Feb. 1, 2012. This includes a net loss of 3.4 full time equivalent positions (FTE) of national church staff. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/04/Release06.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/04/Release06.htm Tue, 12 Apr 2011 09:00:12 -0600 Janet Plenert, Executive Secretary of Witness, has resigned from her position after more than five years in this role, and twenty-five years of passionate service to the church. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/04/Release08.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/04/Release08.htm Fri, 08 Apr 2011 09:00:12 -0600 It's election time in Canada once again. You might be wondering if this election really matters, or if your vote can really make a difference. That's why it is timely to draw attention to some work of the Canadian Council of Churches and the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada - in which Mennonite Church Canada is a member - and to point you to some related work of our valued partner, Mennonite Central Committee. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/04/Release05.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/04/Release05.htm Tue, 05 Apr 2011 09:00:12 -0600 Her son had been waiting in line to buy his lunch at school when a bully pushed him out of his place. A fight broke out and the boy ended up in the hospital. Confused, alone, vulnerable, and afraid, the victim's mother did not know what to do until she learned about a mediation group sponsored by the Korea Anabaptist Cente http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/04/Release02.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/04/Release02.htm Tue, 05 Apr 2011 09:10:12 -0600 In South Korea, retribution is often seen as a first response to criminal behaviour. Restorative justice approaches that give consideration to the human elements behind criminal behaviour have been largely limited to the involvement of a few mediators who work with the family court to settle disputes outside of the conventional justice system. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/04/Release03.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/04/Release03.htm Tue, 05 Apr 2011 09:20:12 -0600 One hundred years ago, non-conformity and nonresistance were hallmarks of the peace witness in churches now part of Mennonite Church Canada and Mennonite Church USA. Today, members of both churches more actively engaged in society, and the pursuit of justice is an essential part of peacemaking. How did this change come about? http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/04/Release04.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/04/Release04.htm Tue, 05 Apr 2011 09:30:12 -0600 Church members from across Mennonite Church Canada continue to pray for the people of Japan. Mennonite Church Canada stands in solidarity with two Japanese congregations in Mennonite Church British Colombia: Mennonite Japanese Christian Fellowship (Surrey), and North Shore Japanese Church (North Vancouver). http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/04/Release01.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/04/Release01.htm Tue, 05 Apr 2011 09:40:12 -0600 Norm sat down in the kitchen and turned on his computer. "Do you want to hear what I recorded today?" he asked. "Sure." I said as I cleared the supper dishes off the table. He had started recording the story of Adam and Eve in Siamou that day. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/03/Release06.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/03/Release06.htm Mon, 21 Mar 2011 09:00:12 -0600 Church leaders took time away from the meeting table at this year's Mennonite Church Canada Spring Leadership Assembly to share supper prepared by the Lao Mennonite Church in Winnipeg. Norm Voth, Director of Evangelism and Service Ministries at Mennonite Church Manitoba, made introductions. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/03/Release07.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/03/Release07.htm Mon, 21 Mar 2011 09:10:12 -0600 Church leaders got out of the meeting rooms and onto the streets in Winnipeg's West End neighbourhood during the Mar. 2-4 Spring Leadership Assembly Meetings of Mennonite Church Canada. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/03/Release08.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/03/Release08.htm Mon, 21 Mar 2011 09:20:12 -0600 True to his Mi'kmaq/Acadian heritage, Terry LeBlanc uses stories to put his message across. It's culturally appropriate, and it's biblical. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/03/Release09.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/03/Release09.htm Mon, 21 Mar 2011 12:00:12 -0600 Jeff Warkentin, Mennonite Church Canada worker in Burkina Faso, West Africa, has sent out a prayer appeal in light of continued political unrest in Ouagadougou, the capital city. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/03/Release05.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/03/Release05.htm Wed, 16 Mar 2011 03:00:12 -0600 Please pray for Japanese people as they work to cope with devastating results of the earthquake, tsunami, and ensuing infrastructure damage and human displacement. Communication with Japanese Mennonite groups in Japan has been challenging, but Mennonite World Conference has been in contact with Mennonite church leaders in Japan, and provides some preliminary information in a release. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/03/Release04.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/03/Release04.htm Mon, 14 Mar 2011 09:00:12 -0600 This summer, the congregations of Mennonite Church Eastern Canada will welcome visitors from across the country as they host the Mennonite Church Canada Assembly in Waterloo, Ont. Like most Mennonites of European ancestry,those who settled along the Grand River region, arrived with a history of purposeful migration, and a deep desire to be faithful. This is their story. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/03/Release01.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/03/Release01.htm Wed, 09 Mar 2011 09:00:12 -0600 Dr. Helmut Harder, Professor Emeritus, Canadian Mennonite University, and former General Secretary of Mennonite Church Canada, will be a keynote speaker at the 20th Summer Ecumenical Institute at the Lutheran Theological Seminary in Saskatoon, July 6 - 9. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/03/Release02.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/03/Release02.htm Wed, 09 Mar 2011 09:05:12 -0600 Spirituality in the work of organizational boards needs to be seen as "leaven in the bread" rather than simply "frosting on the cake" says Rick Stiffney, co-author of Setting the Agenda: Meditations for the Organization's Soul. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/03/Release03.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/03/Release03.htm Wed, 09 Mar 2011 09:10:12 -0600 To talk about peace in Mennonite churches has become popular; to organize conferences on the subject is respectable. But it seems to me that to work for peace in all seriousness is unrealistic, unpopular, subversive and, therefore, ultimately dangerous. But peace, like grace, never comes cheaply. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/02/Release04.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/02/Release04.htm Tue, 22 Feb 2011 09:00:12 -0600 Mennonite Church Canada just got a tiny bit greener, thanks to its internet service provider, Peaceworks Computer Consulting of Waterloo, Ont. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/02/Release05.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/02/Release05.htm Tue, 22 Feb 2011 09:05:12 -0600 Dave Funk of Steinbach Mennonite Church has made it a personal project to take fellow church members on a monthly tour of Mennonite Church Canada and Mennonite Church Manitoba. He's pledged to do this for one year, or until the sign-up sheet is empty. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/02/Release06.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/02/Release06.htm Tue, 22 Feb 2011 09:10:12 -0600 Like it or not, the face of worship continues to grow and change. So it has always been. What has also always been is the fact that the church, or at least some in the church, resist and react negatively to the changes we experience in worship. Especially in the area of music. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/02/Release07.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/02/Release07.htm Tue, 22 Feb 2011 09:15:12 -0600 After more than 40 years of ministry with Aboriginal communities in Manitoba and across Canada, Edith and Neill von Gunten are retiring on May 31, 2011. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/02/Release01.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/02/Release01.htm Tue, 08 Feb 2011 09:00:12 -0600 Hungry children are being fed, students of peace are learning non-violent responses to conflict, and ordinary people are making extraordinary sacrifices to bring hope and justice to those on the margins. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/02/Release02.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/02/Release02.htm Tue, 08 Feb 2011 09:05:12 -0600 Affordability, a declining pool of prospective students due to smaller family sizes, and, for colleges, declining alumni loyalty when it comes to where their children go to school—these are some of the challenges facing Mennonite schools today. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/02/Release03.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/02/Release03.htm Tue, 08 Feb 2011 09:10:12 -0600 Another Anabaptist network is taking shape – this time in East Asia. The unofficially named "Chinese Anabaptist Network" joins similar Anabaptist and Mennonite networks and centres in United Kingdom, France, South Africa, and Korea, among others. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/01/Release01.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/01/Release01.htm Mon, 24 Jan 2011 09:00:12 -0600 Though Jae Young Lee doesn't think the recent North Korean shelling of South Korea’s Yeonpyeong Island will lead to full-scale war, as Peace Program Coordinator for the Korea Anabaptist Center (KAC) he is alarmed by what is happening in both North and South Korea. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/01/Release02.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/01/Release02.htm Mon, 24 Jan 2011 09:05:12 -0600 Sometimes Mennonite Church Canada international workers benefit from the broad network of relationships that have been knit between us and our local communties. I learned this first-hand during a recent health crisis. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/01/Release03.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/01/Release03.htm Mon, 24 Jan 2011 09:10:12 -0600 Ben and Patti Wiebe of Beamsville, Ontario will serve as Mennonite Church Canada Witness Resource Workers at Union Biblical Seminar (UBS) in Pune, India from mid-January until mid-April, 2011. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/01/Release04.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/01/Release04.htm Mon, 24 Jan 2011 09:15:12 -0600 Mennonite Church Canada Witness is sending Palmer Becker, of Kitchener, Ontario to Bethlehem Bible College (BBC) in Palestine to serve as a Resource Worker from January 12 to March 19th, 2011. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/01/Release05.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2011/01/Release05.htm Mon, 24 Jan 2011 09:20:12 -0600 Mennonite Church Canada has become aware that on December 14th, the Ho Chi Minh church buildings and home of Mennonite house church Pastor Rev. Nguyen Hong Quang were demolished at the culmination of a property expropriation battle. Quang was reportedly beaten in the incident and detained, according to Voice of the Martyrs Australia. Quang and twenty other detainees were later released and reported to be in good health. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/12/Release03.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/12/Release03.htm Fri, 24 Dec 2010 09:20:12 -0600 When he was a young adult, Arthur Boers' 17 year-old sister died of leukemia. Torn by grief and unable to understand how God could allow such a terrible thing, he found himself unable to pray. "At times I had nothing to say to God or did not know how to voice my prayers," says Boers, author of the new Herald Press book Day by Day These Things We Pray: Uncovering Ancient Rhythms of Prayer. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/12/Release01.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/12/Release01.htm Mon, 20 Dec 2010 11:20:12 -0600 There's a Naked Anabaptist at Menno Simons Christian School! This fall the staff and board members at the Calgary, Alta. school are studying the Herald Press book, The Naked Anabaptist, in an effort to "truly understand what it means to be an Anabaptist Mennonite school," says Principal Byron Thiessen. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/12/Release02.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/12/Release02.htm Mon, 20 Dec 2010 11:19:12 -0600 A deep love for Aboriginal communities in Manitoba inspired Jake and Margaret Harms to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary by honouring others. In lieu of gifts, they invited friends and family to contribute to Mennonite Church Canada Native Ministry. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/11/Release07.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/11/Release07.htm Tue, 30 Nov 2010 12:24:12 -0600 What does it mean to be part of a faith tradition that remembers brutal torture and gruesome executions? That's the question behind the new Herald Press book Tongue Screws and Testimonies: Poems, Stories, and Essays Inspired by the Martyrs Mirror. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/11/Release08.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/11/Release08.htm Tue, 30 Nov 2010 12:23:12 -0600 What will Sunday school look like in the future for Mennonite Church USA and Mennonite Church Canada congregations? That was the question addressed at a consultation organized by Mennonite Publishing Network (MPN) earlier this month. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/11/Release09.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/11/Release09.htm Tue, 30 Nov 2010 12:22:12 -0600 While Saskatchewan area pastors, Mennonite Church Canada Board members and staff, scattered after a shared meal on Thursday, Nov. 12, new General Secretary Willard Metzger engaged young adults in a conversation about the church. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/11/Release01.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/11/Release01.htm Mon, 15 Nov 2010 01:06:18 CST On Friday Nov. 13 at First Mennonite Church in Saskatoon, Willard Metzger was commissioned for his new role as Mennonite Church Canada General Secretary by family members, representatives of Mennonite Church Canada General Board and staff. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/11/Release02.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/11/Release02.htm Mon, 15 Nov 2010 01:05:18 -0700 Historical records are shaped by the perspectives of those who write them - and perspectives that clash can cause centuries of pain. On July 22nd, an apology to Mennonites from Lutherans for their historical persecution of Mennonites initiated a new relationship between these parts of the church and opened a door to revisiting their shared but distinctive histories. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/11/Release03.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/11/Release03.htm Mon, 15 Nov 2010 01:04:18 -0700 The merger between Mennonite Publishing Network (MPN) and Third Way Media (TWM) has been met with enthusiasm by Mennonite Church Canada's Christian Formation Council and General Board. The board approved the merger on Nov. 12, 2010 during Mennonite Church Canada's Fall Leadership Assembly at First Mennonite Church in Saskatoon. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/11/Release04.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/11/Release04.htm Mon, 15 Nov 2010 01:03:18 -0700 While Saskatchewan area pastors, Mennonite Church Canada Board members and staff, scattered after a shared meal on Thursday, Nov. 12, new General Secretary Willard Metzger engaged young adults in a conversation about the church. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/11/Release05.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/11/Release05.htm Mon, 15 Nov 2010 01:02:18 -0700 What does worship look like in Mennonite Church Canada and Mennonite Church USA congregations? What makes it different from worship in non-denominational, Baptist or Lutheran churches? Those are the kinds of questions that Bi-national Worship Council members wrestled with at their October 3-5 meeting in Elkhart, Indiana http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/11/Release06.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/11/Release06.htm Mon, 15 Nov 2010 01:01:18 -0700 Qualified support for the integration of Mennonite Publishing Network (MPN) and Third Way Media - that's what was expressed by the Mennonite Church Canada Formation Council, meeting October 19 at the Hidden Acres Mennonite Camp in south-western Ontario. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release11.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release11.htm Fri, 29 Oct 2010 01:13:18 -0700 Christian education and faith formation doesn't take place only in Sunday school - it happens during the week too. That's why Mennonite Publishing Network (MPN) has created the Kids Can Club; a new series of all-in-one, flexible resources for children's midweek, Sunday night, camp, or other settings. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release12.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release12.htm Fri, 29 Oct 2010 01:13:18 -0700 Whatever happened to families sitting down to dinner together? That's what Melodie Davis wants to know. "Research shows that only about 60 percent of youth and parents in the U.S. eat dinner together five or more times a week," says Davis. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release13.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release13.htm Fri, 29 Oct 2010 01:13:18 -0700 For Reymond Pagé, spending 275 days travelling the world with his family was a bonding experience, but it also inspired an art exhibit currently on display at the Mennonite Heritage Centre Gallery (MHCG), a ministry of Mennonite Church Canada. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release10.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release10.htm Tue, 19 Oct 2010 01:13:18 -0700 Members of Jubilee Mennonite Church of Winnipeg, Man. toured the Mennonite Church Canada office at 600 Shaftesbury Blvd. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release05.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release05.htm Tue, 19 Oct 2010 01:12:18 -0700 Three new titles have been added to the list of e-books offered by Herald Press, the book imprint of Mennonite Publishing Network. The three are Forgiveness: A Legacy of the West Nickel Mines Amish School; Simply in Season; and The Upside-Down Kingdom. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release09.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release09.htm Tue, 19 Oct 2010 01:11:18 -0700 Life is meaningless and vain—that, we’ve been told, is the message of the book of Ecclesiastes. But is that what the author is really saying? Not according to Douglas Miller, professor of biblical and religious studies at Tabor College in Hillsboro, Kansas. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release08.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release08.htm Tue, 19 Oct 2010 01:10:18 -0700 With over 4,700 sold, The Naked Anabaptist: The Bare Essentials of a Radical Faith, is a runaway best-seller for Herald Press, the book imprint of Mennonite Publishing Network (MPN). “We knew the book would resonate with many people, but we didn’t expect it to sell out so quickly,” says Ron Rempel, Executive Director of MPN. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release07.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release07.htm Tue, 19 Oct 2010 01:09:18 -0700 Mennonite Church USA congregations will get a free copy of the new Herald Press book Let the Children Come: Preparing Faith Communities to End Child Abuse and Neglect, thanks to a generous gift from an anonymous donor. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release06.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release06.htm Tue, 19 Oct 2010 01:08:18 -0700 On Friday, Sept. 17, Rev. Dr. Ishmael Noko, General Secretary of the Lutheran World Federation visited the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada office in Winnipeg. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release01.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release01.htm Tue, 05 Oct 2010 01:08:18 -0700 A grassroots response to Mennonite Church Canada's Peace in the Public Square initiative is rolling through the streets of Saskatoon. On September 6, five king boards - the exterior posters adorning the sides of city busses – made their debut carrying four different messages promoting peace and non-violence. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release02.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release02.htm Tue, 05 Oct 2010 01:08:28 -0700 Dynamic, innovative, fully-integrated and multi-media—that's the goal of a new organization to be formed out of an integration of Mennonite Publishing Network (MPN), the publishing ministry of Mennonite Church USA and Mennonite Church Canada, and Third Way Media, a department of Mennonite Mission Network. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release03.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release03.htm Tue, 05 Oct 2010 01:08:38 -0700 In 1980, before living simply and green became trendy and popular, Doris Janzen Longacre, author of the enormously popular More-with-Less Cookbook, wrote Living More with Less, a practical guide for living in simple, sustainable and healthy ways. Thirty years later, Living More with Less: 30th Anniversary Edition is being released. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release04.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/10/Release04.htm Tue, 05 Oct 2010 01:08:48 -0700 >Why would Willard Metzger leave a position with World Vision to move into the role of General Secretary of Mennonite Church Canada? His response to that question was immediate and simple - obedience to God's call. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/09/Release02.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/09/Release02.htm Mon, 20 Sep 2010 01:08:18 -0700 What does peace smell like? What does it taste like? Feel, sound or look like? Through Sensing Peace, a new book from Herald Press, children ages 4 to 7 are encouraged to see what peace looks, sounds, feels, tastes and smells like through their everyday moments - things like laughing, cooking, gardening, singing or sharing ice cream. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/09/Release03.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/09/Release03.htm Mon, 20 Sep 2010 01:08:18 -0700 Jeanette Harder's goal is to help churches and communities become safe places for children. "I strongly feel the need to prevent child abuse in church, but also in neighbourhoods, schools and anywhere else." http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/09/Release04.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/09/Release04.htm Mon, 20 Sep 2010 01:08:18 -0700 A passion for writing children’s stories and a desire to engage children in church life gave birth to Imvu, a small knitted sheep who connects Mennonite Church Canada ministry in South Africa with children around the world. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/09/Release01.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/09/Release01.htm Thu, 09 Sep 2010 08:08:18 -0700 As prayers began, a hush fell over the crowd and numerous people pointed to the sky. The eagle, the traditional aboriginal symbol for the Great spirit, hovered overhead. Surely it was a clear sign of God’s presence and blessing as the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) launch in Winnipeg drew to a close on Sat., June 19. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release10.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release10.htm Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:08:18 -0700 Delegates to Mennonite Church Canada Assembly 2010 have expressed their support of Indian Residential School (IRS) survivors. On July 2, 2010, they unanimously passed a resolution confessing the complicity of Mennonites "in the failing of the Christian Church" and its role in the residential school, and acknowledging "that destructive individual attitudes, such as paternalism, racism, and superiority are still present among us." http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release14.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release14.htm Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:07:18 -0700 "Now that you’re engaged, when is the wedding?" That was the comment received by incoming Executive Secretary of Church Engagement, Norm Dyck, after by-law changes were approved on Wednesday to make way for the new council. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release02.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release02.htm Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:06:18 -0700 For Mennonite Church Canada, the old days of "doing mission" are over. Relationships form communities of faith and are at the heart of building a global church, one of Mennonite Church Canada's core priorities. But building the global church by developing relationships also touches on the remaining two priorities; forming a people of God and growing leaders for the church. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release09.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release09.htm Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:05:18 -0700 When the Worship Committee for Assembly 2010 couldn't find a song that captured the essence of the theme, Reclaiming Jesus - Gladly Wear the Name, Chad Miller and Doug Klassen teamed up to write one aptly named Reclaim the Name. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release05.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release05.htm Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:04:18 -0700 For Bev Patkau, quilting is a labour of love, fabric and thread a form of expression. Patkau has several quilts on display at the Mennonite Church Canada art exhibit - this year entitled Art for Peace. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release04.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release04.htm Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:03:18 -0700 After leading three study sessions on the Assembly Bible theme text, Colossians 3:15-17, General Secretary Robert J. Suderman found himself on the "hot seat". He faced questions from three eager Assembly "students" in a session facilitated by David Beltzer, Instructor of Communications and Media at Canadian Mennonite University (CMU). http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release03.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release03.htm Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:03:18 -0700 Success of pastoral ministry grows through healthy relationships and according to Marianne Mellinger, healthy relationships depend upon keen emotional intelligence. Mellinger, who is the Supervisor of Graduate Theological Studies at Conrad Grebel University College, shared her insights with pastors who gathered at First Mennonite Church in Calgary for the annual Mennonite Church Canada Ministers Conference on June 29. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release06.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release06.htm Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:03:28 -0700 Once upon a time, Mennonite congregations in Canada could largely define themselves by German or Swiss Mennonite heritage, but no more. Our congregations represent an increasing variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds and currently, 49 of them worship in 19 languages other than English or German including; Amharic (Ethiopian and Eritrean), Cantonese, Chin, Hmong, Japanese, Karan, Korean, Laotian, Mandarin, Spanish, Tamil, Thai and Vietnamese. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release08.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release08.htm Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:03:18 -0700 Canada's tax rules and even a congregation’s own bylaws and constitution can create obstacles for charitable organizations who want to do good but experience frustration in trying to follow all the rules. The Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) states that, a Canadian registered charity, regardless of the source of the income, must use these funds for charitable purposes only. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release12.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release12.htm Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:03:08 -0700 "For me, this one sentence says what I value in my women’s group. It's a value that goes beyond generations." Erna Neufeldt, out-going chair for Mennonite Women Canada, welcomed women to the luncheon with Nouwen's words and her own obvious deep connection to Mennonite Women Canada. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release07.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release07.htm Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:02:58 -0700 That's a question being asked by a growing number of Mennonite churches today as they deal with declining enrolment, sporadic attendance and the challenge of finding teachers. It's a question facing other churches, too, as Debra Bendis discovered. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release13.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release13.htm Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:02:48 -0700 There's a naked Anabaptist on Kindle! Not only that, so are other Herald Press books such as Emma, Isaiah and Ruth, Jonah and Esther. Altogether, 33 top-selling books from Herald Press are available on Amazon's electronic book reader, including The Naked Anabaptist. Twenty-three other titles are in the process of being converted. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release11.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release11.htm Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:02:38 -0700 A retirement dinner for Mennonite Church Canada General Secretary Robert J. Suderman (Jack) was held at Ambrose University College in Calgary on Monday, June 28, 2010 prior to the opening of Assembly 2010. With reflections and humour, friends, family and co-workers honoured the Sudermans for their deep commitment to the church. http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release01.htm http://www.mennonitechurch.ca/news/releases/2010/07/Release01.htm Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:02:28 -0700