This year’s meeting began with a time of worship led by Portage MB Church, setting a reflective and prayerful tone for the day. MBCM leaders engaged in discussions centred on leadership transitions, financial stewardship, and collective efforts to advance discipleship and mission-oriented goals.
Staff Update
John Neufeld was announced as the incoming Provincial Director, effective March 1, 2025. Read full announcement.
Financial Updates
As of September 30, 2024, expenses are about $41,300.00 less than last year and are within our budgeted amounts. Donations from Churches to the Conference Support Fund (CSF) is 22% less than the same time last year. However, a number of churches make the bulk of their CSF contributions towards the end of the year in the 4th Quarter. As of October 31, 2024, CSF is 4% less than the same time last year and 71% of our 2024 budgeted amount, which closely tracks patterns from previous years. A draft proposal of a new Conference support strategy was presented for feedback, focusing on encouraging consistent contributions from member churches.
Nomination Updates
Terry and Konrad’s term on the MBCM board concludes in March 2025. Churches and leaders were encouraged to actively engage in the nomination process to fill vacant positions on the MBCM board and Faith and Life Team.
Discipleship Conversation Insights
Fidel, who pastors at our host church, shared that discipleship means "dying to self" and embracing a life centered on Christ and His body. Philadelphia Eritrean Church emphasizes relational discipleship through 14 home cell groups that focus on Bible study, teaching, and active participation. Challenges include motivating full participation in these groups while continuing to foster a sense of community and shared responsibility.
Key Themes from Table Discussions
Discipleship Models: Importance of intentional family discipleship and emphasis on "obedience-based discipleship," prioritizing action and transformation over information.
Cultural and Contextual Challenges: Addressing the needs of culturally diverse congregations, particularly immigrant and youth groups, and navigating discipleship in post-pandemic contexts.
Support for Pastors and Leaders: Recognition of pastors' struggles and the need for consistent support and accountability.
Suggestions for MBCM: Provide training materials and online resources for discipleship initiatives, facilitate inter-church collaboration to share resources, share success stories to inspire and encourage churches, and help churches evaluate their current strategies.
Interim Provincial Director Update
Jason Dyck welcomed Source of Life Church as the newest associate member of MBCM. Pastor Bisetsa and Felix shared their gratitude for joining the MBCM family and provided an overview of their congregation, which is primarily composed of members from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, and Canadian-born children. Their services are held at New Beginnings Church in Winnipeg.
The FaithWorks congregation requested a release from MBCM due to differing convictions. Jason emphasized gratitude for FaithWorks' thoughtful discernment and expressed prayers for their continued journey.
House of Covenant International Church (HCIC) Update
Yohannes, who pastors HCIC, shared the struggles and resilience of the church following a devastating fire that destroyed their building on September 14th. The tragedy was made even more heartbreaking by the loss of two lives and the immense challenges of navigating the aftermath. Despite these challenges, HCIC has received significant support from the community, including temporary worship space provided by The Meeting Place. Yohannes conveyed the church’s unwavering faith and their commitment to rebuild, leaning on God’s provision for the future.
Acknowledging Service
Jason expressed deep appreciation for Walter Fast, whose term on the Provincial Faith and Life Team is concluding.
National Update
Cam Stuart, the National Director for CCMBC, shared reflections on the importance of collaboration and humility in the national conference's vision. He also introduced the Prayer Week initiative coming up January 5-11. Visit mennonitebrethren.ca for info.
Cam also encouraged churches to prioritize equipping leaders and fostering a culture of intentional discipleship, highlighting the importance of stepping beyond local church boundaries to engage in broader mission efforts.
Thank you to those who attended and for supporting one another in mission and ministry.
Registration for Assembly 2025 is now open! Register here.
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