The executive board of the Canadian Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches (CCMBC) gathered in Abbotsford, B.C., Jan. 28–29. Discussions centred on a future executive director and task force findings from a recent summit.
Deliberations regarding the executive director began with a review of the search process and concluded with a unanimous endorsement of the candidate. (See “Reimer appointed executive director.”)
In December, more than 35 senior leaders from the Canadian conference met for a “National Provincial Collaboration Summit,” to explore better ways to serve the mission of MB churches and leaders across the country. A task force met Jan. 20 to take the findings from the summit and translate them into actions steps for the executive board to review.
The executive board heard from task force members Al Thiessen and Kerry Dyck, and expressed their resolve to move the process forward.
“There is a strong sense of urgency between national and provincial conferences to work together more effectively in order to increase our mission capacity,” says moderator Paul Loewen.
The board will continue to work toward a unified vision, and expects that clarity will emerge through further discussions, under the guidance of a new executive director.
In other business, the executive board was introduced to Bruce Guenther, interim president and developer for MB Biblical Seminary (MBBS) Canada, by John Unger, MBBS board chair. Also, they had opportunity to hear from and interact with the staff of MB Mission (formerly Mennonite Brethren Mission and Service International).
“The stories of transformation from around the world are motivating for us,” says Loewen. “In many ways, we believe MB Mission is a model for how we can increase our vision and follow-through for reaching the lost. My prayer is that CCMBC will become a greater mission movement in Canada for the Kingdom of God.”
