News from Formation

	Justina Heese

Two significant changes are coming in the programs of Mennonite Church Canada Formation.

Der Bote

Der Bote, the German language periodical turns 80 in January, 2004! As we anticipate celebrating this anniversary, we are announcing that starting in August 2003 each issue of Der Bote will feature two Bible studies. These studies will be translations of the Adult Bible Study lessons that are produced by Faith and Life Resources at Mennonite Publishing Network and are used throughout Mennonite Church Canada and Mennonite Church USA. Mennonite Publishing Network has given permission for the editor of Der Bote to make the translation.

Two factors prompt Mennonite Church Canada Formation to include Bible studies in Der Bote.

First, the German Bible Study materials known as Bibelstudien für Erwachsene are no longer available from Mennonite Publishing House (Network). Including two Bible texts with interpretation, comment and questions in each issue provides four Bible studies per month to readers and congregations. These can be used for group study, individual reflection or Sunday School classes. Congregations can purchase additional issues of Der Bote for study purposes or they can photocopy the lesson pages. MC Canada Formation will grant permission to congregations for copying the pages for group study.

The second reason for including Bible study materials is to enhance the spiritual life of Der Bote readers. The text and some notes of explanation and interpretation followed by appropriate questions for reflection provide focus for private devotional times.

Further information about the Der Bote Bible study feature can be obtained from Lois Bergen, Administrative Assistant for Der Bote, at 204 888 6781 or lbergen@mennonitechurch.ca

Since the beginning of January, 2003, Der Bote has been edited by Interim Editor Ingrid Janzen Lamp. Mennonite Church Canada is pleased to announce that Ingrid will continue editing Der Bote for the coming months. Long-time editor Isbrand Hiebert is pursuing medical treatment.

The Resource Centre

What resources are essential for congregations and individuals within the Mennonite Church Canada constituency? How should these resources be made available? The Christian Formation Council decided to take a closer look at these questions at their March meetings, and concluded that they needed to devote time at their fall meeting for a fuller discussion of options.

Connie Loeppky and Kathy Giesbrecht, both long time familiar faces at the Resource Centre are moving on. Their ministry in the Resource Centre will end this summer (watch Canadian Mennonite for a news release). With the upcoming discussions about the nature of resource delivery, Mennonite Church Canada Formation is inviting applications for an interim manager for the Resource Centre. If you, or someone you know might be interested, please contact me at 1-866-888-6785 or email jheese@mennonitechurch.ca