Church Matters: Recent Episodes
Dan Dyck
Church Matters explores why the church matters in the world today. Each episode features a guest or guests who tell stories from their own experiences about why the church matters. Church Matters is produced by Mennonite Church Canada.
In 2016-17, both Mennonite Church Canada and Mennonite Church USA have passed resolutions seeking to build peace in Palestine and Israel. To help understand the tensions in Palestine and Israel, we invited Jonathan Kuttab, a Mennonite and a leading human rights lawyer in Israel and Palestine, to talk about the situation. Born in West Jerusalem, his family moved to the United States after the Six Day War in 1967. After practicing with a Wall Street law firm for several years, he returned home to co-found the Palestinian Center for the Study of Nonviolence, Al-Haq (lawyers and others who assist with human rights issues), and the Mandela Institute for Political Prisoners, and has served with Mennonite Central Committee in Palestine. Mr. Kuttab reflects on the history of war in the region, Christian Zionism, present day dynamics - and the possibility that Mennonite peace practices have something to contribute in easing and ending the long standing tensions in this conflicted region of the world. This episode concludes 10 years of the Church Matters program. Thank you to everyone - listeners, interview guests, Grant Klassen - faithful sound engineer audio quality control manager - GoldenWest Radio for airing each episode, and Bryan Moyer Suderman for gifting us the free use of his "Sending Song" as our signature music that closed each episode. - Dan Dyck, host
Even as the Halo Project estimates the contribution of churches in Canada in the billions of dollars, traditional expressions of church across society are in decline. Regular attendance at a worship service is now defined as 1 or 2 times/month. Traditional volunteerism in churches is fading quickly, and so are donations. Some churches and denominations are re-organizing themselves accordingly. Others are in denial, and some are playing a wait and see game. In the middle are those who are re-inventing themselves. Young people are yearning for and creating alternative expressions of faith and worship, while elders mourn lost traditions. How do we hold things together in such times? Listen in on a conversation with Willard Metzger, Vice President of the Canadian Council of Churches and Executive Director of Mennonite Church Canada as he shares what he's hearing from the young and the old in his visits to churches.
Although the Christian church in China is not structured along the lines of denominations as it is in North America, there is a group of pastors and Christians who have embraced Mennonite theology and values. One of those pastors, Pastor Paul (pseudonym), recently visited Mennonite churches and service agencies in Canada to learn more about the Mennonite tradition of service to others. Pastor Paul shares how he came to faith in Christ, his impressions of the Mennonite church here, and some insightful thoughts on increasing restrictions on Christian church activity in China. Translating for Pastor Paul is Jeanette Hanson, a Mennonite Church Canada Witness worker who has been working with the Chinese Church in China since 1992, through Mennonite Partners in China.
Ginny Hostetler grew up in Brazil, was a mission worker in Israel, and speaks six languages. An early passion for communication had her busy with the student newspaper when she attended Eastern Mennonite University. As the new editor of Canadian Mennonite, Ginny shares about the joys and challenges of communicating to a diverse, faith-based audience in the 21st century.
Palmer Becker is a speaker, pastor, church planter, missionary, author, and educator. His latest book, Anabaptist Essentials: Ten signs of a unique Christian faith, has just been released. Jesus, community, and reconciliation are key values of Anabaptist belief. Anabaptist spirituality is an increasingly flavourable and attractive addition to the potluck spread of Christian faith traditions, says, Becker. Palmer is also the author of What Is an Anabaptist Christian?, now published in 20 languages.
Christian Peacemaker Teams, founded by Mennonites, has flourished into an ecumenical network seeking to undo oppression of all kinds. Using non-violent means, CPT standings up for oppressed, suppressed, and marginalized people places like Palestine, Colombia, Iraqi Kurdistan, and Indigenous peoples in Canada. However, not all Christians are equally comfortable with the highly political work sometimes required. Some view CPT's work as an undesirable kind of political interference, while others view it as necessary action. Sarah Thompson shares her insights about the politics of Jesus and the gospels.
Kathleen Vitt and Henry Neufeld will walk hundreds of kilometers in support of Indigenous rights in Canada. It's their way of engaging with the 2015 concluding report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), which issued a series of call to actions for the churches. One of those calls to action is to support the UN's Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). The Pilgrimage for Indigenous Rights is an effort to raise awareness of UNDRIP and why it's important for the Christian settler community. "Pilgrims" will walk 600 km from Kitchener-Waterloo to Ottawa, Ontario, meeting with various people from a variety of Christian expression along the way for learning and conversation. Hear Kathleen and Henry reveal their motivations for walking. For details, see the Pilgrimage for Indigenous Rights website.
"If we feel like we have to get the rules right before we can love each other, we're never going to get there," says Marcus Rempel, author of Life at the End of Us vs. Them. We live in a time of deep partisanship, clashing cultures of all kinds, and fractured relationships with each other. No sooner has a group aligned with a particular cause, than it splinters as individuals face off against each other on other disagreements. To continue on this path as a society will lead to chaos. Rempel offers both a stark warning and extends a helping hand to those grasping for a way out. Listen to either the 15 min radio broadcast or complete 29 min podcast.
"If we feel like we have to get the rules right before we can love each other, we're never going to get there," says Marcus Rempel, author of Life at the End of Us vs. Them. We live in a time of deep partisanship, clashing cultures of all kinds, and fractured relationships with each other. No sooner has a group aligned with a particular cause, than it splinters as individuals face off against each other on other disagreements. To continue on this path as a society will lead to chaos. Rempel offers both a stark warning and extends a helping hand to those grasping for a way out. Listen to either the 15 min radio broadcast or complete 29 min podcast.
Jesus puts his words into action as he responds to the request of the Jewish elders to heal the centurion's servant and then is moved with compassion to raise to life a widow's son. What do you request of Jesus? Do you believe he has compassion for you? Terry Zimmerly, pastor of Home Street Mennonite Church in Winnipeg, asks us to respond to the influx of refugees with the compassion of Christ. This episode is best experienced by reading Luke 7:1-17 in advance.
In The Sin of Certainty by Dr. Peter Enns, the author proclaims that God desires our trust more than our correct beliefs. That is not to say correct beliefs have no place, but he does emphasize that trust in God is a higher priority. Enns is a biblical scholar who teaches and writes on the intersection of Bible and contemporary Christian faith. He has written or edited over a dozen books and many articles and essays on topics pertaining the Bible and Christian faith. Dr. Enns teaches at Eastern University in St. David's Pennsylvania
Byron Rempel Burkholder served the church in Palestine for three months in early 2016. That's when the difficult relationship between Palestine and Israel - a relationship he has followed for some time - became real. Together with Palmer Becker, who has served in the region numerous times, the two men moved to adopt a resolution for justice in Palestine and Israel at the Mennonite Church Canada Assembly in Saskatoon in July, 2016. The resolution is the result of a plea from Palestinian Christians who are suffering under Israeli occupation and who believe it is God's will that Israeli's and Palestinians live with one another in peace, justice, freedom, and security. Byron offers background, biblical viewpoints, and interpretation of what the resolution does and does not say. Also see Part 1.
Byron Rempel Burkholder served the church in Palestine for three months in early 2016. That's when the difficult relationship between Palestine and Israel - a relationship he has followed for some time - became real. Together with Palmer Becker, who has served in the region numerous times, the two men moved to adopt a resolution for justice in Palestine and Israel at the Mennonite Church Canada Assembly in Saskatoon in July, 2016. The resolution is the result of a plea from Palestinian Christians who are suffering under Israeli occupation and who believe it is God's will that Israeli's and Palestinians live with one another in peace, justice, freedom, and security. Byron offers background, biblical viewpoints, and interpretation of what the resolution does and does not say.
Also see Part 2.
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Nathan and Taryn Dirks wondered what God had in store for them when they arrived in Botswana without the paperwork to be there. But during a church service, they both received a vision - at the same time. Soon, they learned that their local church friends in Botswana had a similar vision. Three years later, a vulnerable neighbourhood is being transformed into a safe place. A recreation park has been built. The PULA Sports Development Association has been born. And Ian Khama, the President of Botswana, has put in volunteer time at the facility.
Nathan and Taryn Dirks wondered what God had in store for them when they arrived in Botswana without the paperwork to be there. But during a church service, they both received a vision - at the same time. Soon, they learned that their local church friends in Botswana had a similar vision. Three years later, a vulnerable neighbourhood is being transformed into a safe place. A recreation park has been built. The PULA Sports Development Association has been born. And Ian Khama, the President of Botswana, has put in volunteer time at the facility.
Cynthia Wallace taught on the text of Jeremiah 31:31-34 at the Mennonite Church Canada Assembly 2016 in Saskatoon. She drew parallels between modern day time and Jeremiah's context, challenging the church to hope and imagine boldly in a time of uncertainty for the church today. Cynthia is Assistant Professor of English at St. Thomas Moore College, U of S, attends Warman Mennonite Church, where her husband Josh is pastor
Church denominations across Canada are facing an uncertain future. Declining membership, volunteerism, general participation, and donations to support ministry all point to needed change. But what should that change look like, and what is the vision behind it? In this episode we speak with Jonas Cornelsen, spokesperson for the Emerging Voices Initiative, a group of young adults from across Mennonite Church Canada who want to speak into the process of change at all levels of their church, from congregational to regional to national.
On June 6, new legislation is set to come into force in Canada that will allow assisted dying. Those requesting assistance to die will need to meet a specific set of criteria. But what role does Christian faith play in the right to end human life? What is a faithful response to an individual who wishes to end their suffering by choice? Rod Reynar has lived with severe chronic pain for much of his life, and at one point contemplated suicide. Rod is a Christian Mennonite with science degrees and a passion for agriculture and the social sciences.
Also see Part 1 of this interview.
On June 6, new legislation is set to come into force in Canada that will allow assisted dying. Those requesting assistance to die will need to meet a specific set of criteria. But what role does Christian faith play in the right to end human life? What is a faithful response to an individual who wishes to end their suffering by choice? Rod Reynar has lived with severe chronic pain for much of his life, and at one point contemplated suicide. Rod is a Christian Mennonite with science degrees and a passion for agriculture and the social sciences. Also see Part 2 of this interview.
In July, 2015, Canada's Truth and Reconciliation Commission released its final report. Included in that report are recommendations for churches. In this episode we explore those recommendations and what they mean for Mennonites as individuals and as congregations.Also see related resource Wrongs to Rights.
Climate change is a matter that floats into and out of news headlines. In early September, 2015, Time magazine published a piece citing climate change as the root cause of the Syria's refugee crisis. Aryn Baker wrote, "From 2006 to 2011, large swaths of Syria suffered an extreme drought that, according to climatologists, was exacerbated by climate change." Added to that, says Baker, mismanagement by the Assad regime displaced two million rural citizens to urban centres, contributing to social unrest and precipitating the civil war. For this episode, we bring you Willard Metzger, executive director of Mennonite Church Canada who was interviewed by Tim Rogers of Grand 101.1 FM in Fergus, Ontario in January, 2016.
The whole idea of not fighting for one's country is counter-cultural. Many Christians and churches support a just war theology. But Conrad Stoesz, Archivist at the Mennonite Heritage Archives, says Conscientious Objection to war is an often and conveniently overlooked part of our complex history as Christians and Canadians that extends beyond Mennonite beliefs and practices. Stoesz says this part of Canadian history is about to be lost - which is why as he is leading the production of a documentary film on the history of Canada's provisions for alternative service to war.
Forgiveness is countercultural to a Hollywood world filled with super heroes exacting vengeance from wrongdoers. How does forgiveness work? Are there benefits to forgiveness? And how can we become committed to living a forgiveness-filled life? Join John H. Neufeld, retired pastor, professor, and former college president for a rich conversation on what we can learn from Bible about forgiveness in a modern world.
Also see Part One.
Also see related 4-session adult study.
Forgiveness is countercultural to a Hollywood world filled with super heroes exacting vengeance from wrongdoers. How does forgiveness work? Are there benefits to forgiveness? And how can we become committed to living a forgiveness-filled life? Join John H. Neufeld, retired pastor, professor, and former college president for a rich conversation on what we can learn from Bible about forgiveness in a modern world. Also see Part Two
Also see related 4-session adult study.
In July, 2014, Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Christians gathered on the campus of Canadian Mennonite University in Winnipeg for Native Assembly 2014. About 250 people representing Thirteen First Nations communities and settlers from eight states, five provinces and seven denominations attended to grapple with questions of creation care, faithfulness, and reconciliation under the theme "Ears to Earth, Eyes to God." This podcast recaps some of the highlights and reactions to the speakers at Native Assembly 2014 with guest host Moses Falco. Thanks to the following Native Assembly attendees who shared their responses in this episode: Ron Janzen, Nicoleen Klassen-Wiebe, Willard Metzger, Danielle Bailey, Henry Neufeld, Mia Janzen, Carol Brown, Don Brown, Mim Harder, Jennifer Henry, Neill von Gunten, Edith von Gunten, Niigaan Sinclair, Peter Harsnape, Danita Fisher, Johnny Stabler
Also see Part One.
In July, 2014, Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Christians gathered on the campus of Canadian Mennonite University in Winnipeg for Native Assembly 2014. About 250 people representing Thirteen First Nations communities and settlers from eight states, five provinces and seven denominations attended to grapple with questions of creation care, faithfulness, and reconciliation under the theme "Ears to Earth, Eyes to God." This podcast recaps some of the highlights and reactions to the speakers at Native Assembly 2014 with guest host Moses Falco.
Listen for presentation excerpts from Melanie Kampen, Adrian Jacobs, and Deanna Zantingh. Also see Part Two.
The church is changing so rapidly that to ignore the change is at our own peril. What must the church do in this new and foreign landscape to revitalize its reason for being?
Join Dr. Stuart Blythe, Rector at the International Baptist Theological Seminary in Amsterdam for Part 1 of a conversation on rapid change in the church and how the church can meaningfully respond.
Originally from Scotland, Blythe has a PhD in Homiletics from Edinburgh and calls himself a practical theologian. Prior to taking on the role of Rector, he was a pastor of Baptist churches in Scotland. Blythe has a strong interest in Anabaptism, and is committed to church planting and the congregation as the centre of God's mission. Blythe was keynote speaker at the Leadership in Ministry Seminar February 9 - 11, 2015, at Canadian Mennonite University.
Also see Part One.
The church is changing so rapidly that to ignore the change is at our own peril. What must the church do in this new and foreign landscape to revitalize its reason for being?
Join Dr. Stuart Blythe, Rector at the International Baptist Theological Seminary in Amsterdam for Part 1 of a conversation on rapid change in the church and how the church can meaningfully respond.
Originally from Scotland, Blythe has a PhD in Homiletics from Edinburgh and calls himself a practical theologian. Prior to taking on the role of Rector, he was a pastor of Baptist churches in Scotland. Blythe has a strong interest in Anabaptism, and is committed to church planting and the congregation as the centre of God's mission. Blythe was keynote speaker at the Leadership in Ministry Seminar February 9 - 11, 2015, at Canadian Mennonite University.
Also see Part Two.
April 19 - 25 is National Victims of Crime Awareness Week in Canada. It's important for society to focus on the victims of crime. And it's the justice system's job is to punish perpetrators of criminal acts. But can offenders and victims ever find reconciliation with one another? The still relatively new work of Restorative Justice focuses on the rehabilitation of offenders through reconciliation with victims and the community at large. Restorative Justice has been shown to be extremely effective in reducing the number of repeat offenders. Mennonites have been at the forefront of recognizing and bringing back Restorative Justice in North America, as practiced for centuries in many Indigenous communities. In recent years, Restorative Justice has been making progress in South Korea. Hear Jae Young Lee share stories of this restoration work in South Korea.
CommonWord is shocked and saddened by Mark MacDonald's acknowledged ministerial sexual misconduct, which came to our attention on June 24, 2022. We unreservedly condemn his actions, and stand in solidarity with all victims of sexual violence.
We have determined to remove Mark's materials from our collection. We do so to signal our condemnation of his actions; to acknowledge the raw wounds that his choices open in the lives of victims of sexual violence; and our need for patient, ongoing reflection in life situations imbued with dissonant complexity. We view this choice as a necessary, provisional time of lament as we acknowledge this brokenness.
The Christian season of Lent demands we pay attention to repentance. With this episode, we focus on how Christians can make repentance meaningful in the context of the church's relationship with Indigenous peoples. Right Reverend Bishop Mark MacDonald reveals some common misunderstandings of repentance, explores some traditional rituals among Indigenous spiritual traditions that parallel Christian Lenten practice, and shares a story of what repentance meant to Indigenous peoples prior to contact with white settlers.
Available in two formats:
Podcast version (26:21 min) Radio version (15:00 min)
CommonWord is shocked and saddened by Mark MacDonald's acknowledged ministerial sexual misconduct, which came to our attention on June 24, 2022. We unreservedly condemn his actions, and stand in solidarity with all victims of sexual violence.
We have determined to remove Mark's materials from our collection. We do so to signal our condemnation of his actions; to acknowledge the raw wounds that his choices open in the lives of victims of sexual violence; and our need for patient, ongoing reflection in life situations imbued with dissonant complexity. We view this choice as a necessary, provisional time of lament as we acknowledge this brokenness.
The Christian season of Lent demands we pay attention to repentance. With this episode, we focus on how Christians can make repentance meaningful in the context of the church's relationship with Indigenous peoples. Right Reverend Bishop Mark MacDonald reveals some common misunderstandings of repentance, explores some traditional rituals among Indigenous spiritual traditions that parallel Christian Lenten practice, and shares a story of what repentance meant to Indigenous peoples prior to contact with white settlers.
Available in two formats:
Podcast version (26:21 min) Radio version (15:00 min)
Whether you agree or disagree that climate change is human induced, the question of "What is the right thing to do?" remains. Dr. Henry Janzen is a Soil Biochemist with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada in Lethbridge, Alberta. He studies how prairie lands respond to the way we manage them, and how our farmlands are linked to other ecosystems, globally. Join in the conversation as we wrestle with questions of what, if anything, people can do, and what scripture tells Christians about caring for the earth.
In recent years the people of China have experienced a booming interest in religion. This is especially visible at Christmas time, when Western expressions of Christmas, both Christian and secular, surface in malls and in the media. But is this just another way of exporting Western culture? Are Western mission efforts in danger of simply exporting another colonial, Western view of what a Christian Christmas should look and feel like? Join guest Myrrl Byler, Executive Director of Mennonite Partners in China as we explore these questions and more.
On November 11, Remembrance Day, many Canadians take time to honour military veterans who have died in combat during current and past wars. On the Sunday closest to Nov. 11 (Peace Sunday), many Mennonite congregations worship on the theme of peace focusing on building a world without war. In both cases, a story that is seldom told is the Canadian-Mennonite history of Conscientious Objection to military service. In Canada, various forms and degrees of conscientious objection have been in place since 1793. Conscientious Objectors, often called Co's, may receive alternative service assignments or be sent to war in non-combative roles. In much of the rest of the world, conscientious objection is not an option. In South Korea, alternative service means a two-year prison term. Hear Jae Young Lee share the story of Sang Min Lee who is currently serving a prison term for refusing to participate in military training.
When you have a comfortable life, it's easy to be thankful - especially on Thanksgiving Day. But what about when there is discomfort? How can you be thankful when life throws you one curve ball after another? Mike Neufeld draws on scripture, prominent figures in Anabaptist history, and personal experience to explore gratitude during uncomfortable times in life. "I was profoundly struck by the idea that my discomfort was gnawing away at my faith," says Neufeld, who teaches Bible and global issues to high school students. Neufeld holds a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Religious Studies, and a Bachelor of Education.
They're known as the silent majority. They are usually vulnerable and seeking counseling. Studies report that 95% of clergy sexual abuse victims are, indeed, adult women. A 2009 study by Baylor University found that 8 out of 100 people in a congregation have known about clergy sexual misconduct occurring in a congregation they have attended. For this episode, Ed Kauffman pastor at First Mennonite Church in Calgary, Alberta, shares his experience of helping congregations following instances of clergy sexual misconduct. Kauffman hales from Indiana where he completed his undergraduate degree in Sociology at Valparaiso University. He has a Masters of Divinity from Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary in Elkhart, Indiana, has held pastorates in Ontario, Indiana and Nebraska. He also has training from the Faith Trust Institute to lead workshops on prevention of clergy misconduct.
"But if we hope for what we don't see, we wait for it with patience" (Romans 8:25). What is hope? Can we be hopeful in very uncertain times? What inspires hope in you? There are no easy answers to these questions. Telling people not to lose their hope can also be really trite and cliched. Hope is difficult when families are caught in cycles of domestic violence. Hope seems impossible when you are just trying to feed your family every day, or trying to find shelter from bombs and gunfire. Participants at Mennonite Church Canada's General Assembly in Winnipeg, Manitoba, from July 3-6, 2014, were asked what hope means to them. Their responses were rich and inspirational, but more importantly, offered wisdom in times of uncertainty.Also see Part 1 of 2.
"But if we hope for what we don't see, we wait for it with patience" (Romans 8:25). What is hope? Can we be hopeful in very uncertain times? What inspires hope in you? There are no easy answers to these questions. Telling people not to lose their hope can also be really trite and cliched. Hope is difficult when families are caught in cycles of domestic violence. Hope seems impossible when you are just trying to feed your family every day, or trying to find shelter from bombs and gunfire. Participants at Mennonite Church Canada's General Assembly in Winnipeg, Manitoba, from July 3-6, 2014, were asked what hope means to them. Their responses were rich and inspirational, but more importantly, offered wisdom in times of uncertainty.Also see Part 2 of 2.
The results of a 4,500 person 2013 survey "Are Canadians done with the Bible" were released in May, 2014. According to the results, 67% of Canadians say they are Christian, but only 11% read the Bible at least once a month. Confidence in the Bible is said to be at an all-time low; many no longer believe the Bible is the word of God. What does this mean for Christians and the church? Kyle Penner, Associate Pastor at Grace Mennonite Church in Steinbach reflects on the survey and helps listeners understand the results in the context of a congregation.
Stan McKay is a member of the Fisher River Cree Nation in Manitoba. He served as the first Aboriginal moderator of the United Church of Canada and successfully advocated for the Church's apology, issued in 1986, for its role in cultural oppression of First Nations peoples. Melanie Kampen describes herself as a Mennonite settler from Treaty 1 Territory, Winnipeg, Manitoba. She has just completed a Master's thesis on the colonial nature of western Christianity and has connected with Metis and First Nations communities at Matheson Island and Pauingassi First Nation in Manitoba.
Both Stan and Melanie are committed to working locally to reconcile Canada's history of colonialism and ongoing injustice towards Indigenous peoples. In addition to explaining their understandings of Treaty People, they both make a case for what Native and non-Native alike should attend Native Assembly 2014.
Available as both the 15-minute radio broadcast and the extended podcast version (19:14 min).
Stan McKay is a member of the Fisher River Cree Nation in Manitoba. He served as the first Aboriginal moderator of the United Church of Canada and successfully advocated for the Church's apology, issued in 1986, for its role in cultural oppression of First Nations peoples. Melanie Kampen describes herself as a Mennonite settler from Treaty 1 Territory, Winnipeg, Manitoba. She has just completed a Master's thesis on the colonial nature of western Christianity and has connected with Metis and First Nations communities at Matheson Island and Pauingassi First Nation in Manitoba.
Both Stan and Melanie are committed to working locally to reconcile Canada's history of colonialism and ongoing injustice towards Indigenous peoples. In addition to explaining their understandings of Treaty People, they both make a case for what Native and non-Native alike should attend Native Assembly 2014.
Available as both the 15-minute radio broadcast and the extended podcast version (19:14 min).
What is God's Spirit calling the church to in the 21st Century? What are the best ways (programs, structures, strategies) for the church to thrive and grow? These are the same questions being asked across Christian expression, says Willard Metzger, Executive Director of Mennonite Church Canada. He has been asking questions about the church's future ever since he took his post in 2010. In 2012, he led the creation of the Future Directions Task Force, a group charged with responding to questions about the future of the church. Willard is informed by regular meetings with leaders from other denominations ranging from the United Church to the Baptist church. He also has a genuine passion for young adults and whenever he can meet with them, asks for their thoughts on the future of the church. Available as both the 15-minute radio broadcast and the extended podcast version (18:22 min).
What is God's Spirit calling the church to in the 21st Century? What are the best ways (programs, structures, strategies) for the church to thrive and grow? These are the same questions being asked across Christian expression, says Willard Metzger, Executive Director of Mennonite Church Canada. He has been asking questions about the church's future ever since he took his post in 2010. In 2012, he led the creation of the Future Directions Task Force, a group charged with responding to questions about the future of the church. Willard is informed by regular meetings with leaders from other denominations ranging from the United Church to the Baptist church. He also has a genuine passion for young adults and whenever he can meet with them, asks for their thoughts on the future of the church. Available as both the 15-minute radio broadcast and the extended podcast version (18:22 min).
Statisticians now say that "regular" church worship service attendance has been re-defined as two times per month. Meanwhile, pastors, lay leaders, and regular church attenders bemoan the dwindling numbers in their Sunday morning sanctuaries. Our guest for this episode is David Balzer, founding host of GodTalk, a two hour call-in radio show on matters of faith. He has frequently explored the question "Why go to church?" Currently, David is Assistant Professor of Communications and Media at Canadian Mennonite University.
Valentine's Day is chocolate and flowers and dinner dates and evenings out with your loved one. It's a time of year when singles feel acutely lonely, and couples are over-the-top celebrating their feelings for one another. But is love bigger than that? Is there more to love than romance? Is love ever spelled with an all encompassing capital "L"? In this episode, hear award winning film maker Paul Plett reflect on his documentary about love, and how a surprising number of people reflect on love in ways that are well beyond romance and marital bliss. This month there are 2 versions:
The Podcast version is the longer, full interview (19:27 min) The Radio version is the shorter 15 min interview
Valentine's Day is chocolate and flowers and dinner dates and evenings out with your loved one. It's a time of year when singles feel acutely lonely, and couples are over-the-top celebrating their feelings for one another. But is love bigger than that? Is there more to love than romance? Is love ever spelled with an all encompassing capital "L"? In this episode, hear award winning film maker Paul Plett reflect on his documentary about love, and how a surprising number of people reflect on love in ways that are well beyond romance and marital bliss. This month there are 2 versions:
The Podcast version is the longer, full interview (19:27 min) The Radio version is the shorter 15 min interview
November is the time of year in Canada when we remember and honour our war dead. Veterans repeat the words, "Never again" as they struggle to overcome lifelong nightmares of violence. But can a soldier forgive an enemy who robbed his ability to walk - or the country's leader who sent him into conflict? Can institutions be forgiven? Are there times when one does not forgive?
Marina Cantacuzino is the founder of the Forgiveness Project, a UK based charity that "uses storytelling to explore how ideas around forgiveness, reconciliation and conflict resolution can be used to impact positively on people's lives." Wilma Derksen is an author, speaker, and educator on the topic of forgiveness. Her 13 year old daughter Candace was found murdered in 1984 after a lengthy missing person search. Both share what they have learned about forgiveness from a secular and religious perspective. Also see Part 1.
Soren MennoHawk is part preacher, part teacher, and storyteller in the tradition of Canada's indigenous people, and full time follower of Jesus, the Waymaker. In this episode Soren takes a slice of the familiar Christmas story and tries to make it helpfully unfamiliar by giving it a present-day indigenous twist.
November is the time of year in Canada when we remember and honour our war dead. Veterans repeat the words, "Never again" as they struggle to overcome lifelong nightmares of violence. But can a soldier forgive an enemy who robbed his ability to walk - or the country's leader who sent him into conflict? Can institutions be forgiven? Are there times when one does not forgive?
Marina Cantacuzino is the founder of the Forgiveness Project, a UK based charity that "uses storytelling to explore how ideas around forgiveness, reconciliation and conflict resolution can be used to impact positively on people's lives." Wilma Derksen is an author, speaker, and educator on the topic of forgiveness. Her 13 year old daughter Candace was found murdered in 1984 after a lengthy missing person search. Both share what they have learned about forgiveness from a secular and religious perspective. Also see Part 2.
Steve Heinrichs is the author of a new book that's turning heads. Buffalo Shout, Salmon Cry grapples with the great hope and promise with life done together as First Nations and settler peoples. Heinrichs brings his passion to the matter of indigenous and white people learning side-by-side in a conversation about how to better care for the natural world upon which we all depend for survival. A former pastor in the Carrier territory of northern British Columbia and Director of Mennonite Church Canada's Indigenous Relations ministry, he leads workshops, teaches and preaches. Also see Part One.
Steve Heinrichs is the author of a new book that's turning heads. Buffalo Shout, Salmon Cry grapples with the great hope and promise with life done together as First Nations and settler peoples. Heinrichs brings his passion to the matter of indigenous and white people learning side-by-side in a conversation about how to better care for the natural world upon which we all depend for survival. A former pastor in the Carrier territory of northern British Columbia and Director of Mennonite Church Canada's Indigenous Relations ministry, he leads workshops, teaches and preaches. Also see Part Two.
Although he resists labels for himself, Noel Moules has nonetheless been described as a "Shalom Activist" - someone who actively and intentionally conspires to express the love and peace of Christ in all circumstances. Moules is the founder of Anvil Trust and its national learning program Workshop: Applied Christian Studies, which has been running since 1983. Born in India in 1945, the eldest child of missionary parents, he grew up in the foothills of the Himalaya. He studied theology and education, as head of department he taught religious studies for a number of years before starting Workshop. Experienced in church leadership, he is a founder member of the Anabaptist Network in the U.K., and co-founder of Peace School, which explores shalom activism, and is developing the Peace Church concept to help people think differently and creatively about being church both locally and globally.
Although he resists labels for himself, Noel Moules has nonetheless been described as a "Shalom Activist" - someone who actively and intentionally conspires to express the love and peace of Christ in all circumstances. Moules is the founder of Anvil Trust and its national learning program Workshop: Applied Christian Studies, which has been running since 1983. Born in India in 1945, the eldest child of missionary parents, he grew up in the foothills of the Himalaya. He studied theology and education, as head of department he taught religious studies for a number of years before starting Workshop. Experienced in church leadership, he is a founder member of the Anabaptist Network in the U.K., and co-founder of Peace School, which explores shalom activism, and is developing the Peace Church concept to help people think differently and creatively about being church both locally and globally.
In the Old Testament, God makes a treaty with the people of Israel. The Old Testament prophets were constantly urging the people to live up to their covenant with God. In the New Testament we read about a New Covenant - or New Treaty - with humanity. Christ brought the New Treaty to humanity, the treaty of love for all peoples, love for creation, and love for God. Are there parallels between the treaties and covenants God makes with humanity, and treaties Canada's government has made with First Nations people? Guest Ovide Mercredi explains how his people understand treaties, and reflects on how he understands a faithfully kept treaty. Mercredi is the National Spokesperson for Treaties 1 to 11, which spans an area from Northern B.C. to Northwestern Ontario. He is a graduate of the University of Manitoba with a Law degree specializing in constitutional law, has served as National Chief for the Assembly of First Nations from 1991 to1997, and as an advocate of non-violent methods for change and travelled to India when he was nominated for the Gandhi Peace Prize. He is a member of the Order of Manitoba and in 2010 received the Social Courage award from the Peace and Justice Studies Association.
Also includes an extended 34 minute podcast.Also see Part 1.
In the Old Testament, God makes a treaty with the people of Israel. The Old Testament prophets were constantly urging the people to live up to their covenant with God. In the New Testament we read about a New Covenant - or New Treaty - with humanity. Christ brought the New Treaty to humanity, the treaty of love for all peoples, love for creation, and love for God. Are there parallels between the treaties and covenants God makes with humanity, and treaties Canada's government has made with First Nations people? Guest Ovide Mercredi explains how his people understand treaties, and reflects on how he understands a faithfully kept treaty. Mercredi is the National Spokesperson for Treaties 1 to 11, which spans an area from Northern B.C. to Northwestern Ontario. He is a graduate of the University of Manitoba with a Law degree specializing in constitutional law, has served as National Chief for the Assembly of First Nations from 1991 to1997, and as an advocate of non-violent methods for change and travelled to India when he was nominated for the Gandhi Peace Prize. He is a member of the Order of Manitoba and in 2010 received the Social Courage award from the Peace and Justice Studies Association.
Also includes an extended 34 minute podcast.Also see Part 1.
In the Old Testament, God makes a treaty with the people of Israel. The Old Testament prophets were constantly urging the people to live up to their covenant with God. In the New Testament we read about a New Covenant - or New Treaty - with humanity. Christ brought the New Treaty to humanity, the treaty of love for all peoples, love for creation, and love for God. Are there parallels between the treaties and covenants God makes with humanity, and treaties Canada's government has made with First Nations people? Guest Ovide Mercredi explains how his people understand treaties, and reflects on how he understands a faithfully kept treaty. Mercredi is the National Spokesperson for Treaties 1 to 11, which spans an area from Northern B.C. to Northwestern Ontario. He is a graduate of the University of Manitoba with a Law degree specializing in constitutional law, has served as National Chief for the Assembly of First Nations from 1991 to1997, and as an advocate of non-violent methods for change and travelled to India when he was nominated for the Gandhi Peace Prize. He is a member of the Order of Manitoba and in 2010 received the Social Courage award from the Peace and Justice Studies Association.
Also see Part 2.
Many theologians, religious researchers and analysts, have said that Canada is just a few steps behind the secularization that has already occurred to a large degree in the United Kingdom and the rest of Europe. Indeed, surveys in recent years indicate that Canadian Christians now define regular church attendance as twice per month. How will post-Christendom shape the future of Anabaptist and Mennonite Churches in North America?
"Even non-religious people have two expectations of the church... The first is that the church gets along... The second is that the church should be the leader in addressing issues of poverty and social justice." - Willard Metzger
Christians are not always the best witnesses to the faith they profess. There's a lot of room for improvement. Willard Metzger was one of several leaders representing a variety of Christian faith traditions attending the City Wide Week of Prayer Service at Bethel Mennonite Church in Winnipeg on Jan. 20, 2013.This episode features an adapted-for-Lent/Easter version of Willard's sermon at that prayer service. The Bible references are 2 Peter 1:1-8. mennonitechurch.ca/ResourceView/43/15502>PDF and video formats.
In our previous Episode (72), story teller Soren MennoHawk offered a re-telling of the infamous Jesus-story from Mark 10:17-31, where Jesus is asked by a rich man what he must do to gain eternal life. Soren - part preacher and part teacher in the tradition of Canada's indigenous people and full time follower of Jesus, the Waymaker - retold the story from an indigenous person's perspective.
Soren's re-telling got a lot of conversation going among Church Matters listeners - and we heard about it. In this episode we respond to the conversations we heard, and unpack some common impressions and stereotypes non-native Canadians have about Canada's First Nations people.
There are 2 versions of this podcast:
The interview (15 min), as heard on radio The interview, plus Bonus section about Idle No More (21 min), exclusively on this podcast
In our previous Episode (72), story teller Soren MennoHawk offered a re-telling of the infamous Jesus-story from Mark 10:17-31, where Jesus is asked by a rich man what he must do to gain eternal life. Soren - part preacher and part teacher in the tradition of Canada's indigenous people and full time follower of Jesus, the Waymaker - retold the story from an indigenous person's perspective.
Soren's re-telling got a lot of conversation going among Church Matters listeners - and we heard about it. In this episode we respond to the conversations we heard, and unpack some common impressions and stereotypes non-native Canadians have about Canada's First Nations people.
There are 2 versions of this podcast:
The interview (15 min), as heard on radio The interview, plus Bonus section about Idle No More (21 min), exclusively on this podcast
Soren MennoHawk is a Settler preacher, teacher, and storyteller who is unsettled by Jesus' message of Jubilee, and what that good news means for a church that lives on lands largely taken from Indigenous peoples.
At a summer gathering in Vancouver, Soren Mennohawk connected with a number of church folk from the Fraser Valley. He took time to explore their relationships with the local First Peoples. At one point, an older gentleman took Soren aside and said with conviction, "Unless we start addressing the issue of land, honestly stating what has happened - that most of BC is not 'treatied' territory - we will never approach reconciliation." Moved by that comment, Soren did a little historical reflection and wrote a translation of an infamous Jesus-story from Mark 10:17-31.
Climate change are two words that are bound to stir up debate. Mention climate change at your family gathering this Christmas and you might quickly start an argument about the causes of climate change. Willard Metzger, Executive Director of Mennonite Church Canada has reflected deeply on climate change and creation care. And he thinks he may have found a way for Christians to tackle the polarized debate in a way that is holistic, truthful, respectful, and most importantly faithful - no matter which side of the climate change fence you're on.
On Nov. 11, Canadians across the country commemorate Remembrance Day in honour of the war dead. To honour this day on Church Matters, we want to share a non-violent peace building success story from Mindanao, Philippines.
Dann and Joji Pantoja have represented Mennonite Church Canada peace building efforts in the Mindanao since 2006, where a land conflict has been going on for decades. Christians, Muslims, indigenous tribal people, and the military have been entangled in a struggle without apparent resolve. But recently, a new framework for peace in the region has been brokered. At the heart of this new agreement are the values and principles of the peace teachings of the gospels. Dann and Joji have been at the centre of much of this work, but are quick to say that the foundation for these new peaceful developments has been laid by prior Mennonite peace ministry in the region.There are 2 versions of this podcast:The interview (15 min), as heard on radioThe interview, plus Bonus section (30 min), exclusively on this podcast
On Nov. 11, Canadians across the country commemorate Remembrance Day in honour of the war dead. To honour this day on Church Matters, we want to share a non-violent peace building success story from Mindanao, Philippines.
Dann and Joji Pantoja have represented Mennonite Church Canada peace building efforts in the Mindanao since 2006, where a land conflict has been going on for decades. Christians, Muslims, indigenous tribal people, and the military have been entangled in a struggle without apparent resolve. But recently, a new framework for peace in the region has been brokered. At the heart of this new agreement are the values and principles of the peace teachings of the gospels. Dann and Joji have been at the centre of much of this work, but are quick to say that the foundation for these new peaceful developments has been laid by prior Mennonite peace ministry in the region.There are 2 versions of this podcast:The interview (15 min), as heard on radioThe interview, plus Bonus section (30 min), exclusively on this podcast
Historically, Christians have often used scripture like a hammer, to clobber each other over the head and reinforce a particular point of view. But is that how the Bible was intended to be used? Tom Yoder Neufeld helped the church dust off the Bible for the 21st Century at Mennonite Church Canada's Assembly 2012 in Vancouver this past July. Tom observes that "We have a tendency to shape the Bible to fit our cherished perceptions...We need the Bible to constantly call into question the way we've tailored things." Tom helped the audience explore the many nuances of biblical interpretation and discernment - historical context, English translation from the original text, situational context, and more, using 2 Corinthians 3 to illustrate the Apostle Paul's strategy in using scripture with the Corinthians. Also see Part 1. To maximize your experience, spend a few moments with this dramatic scripture presentation of 2 Corinthians 3:1-6 by Ken Hawkley and Terry Zimmerly on YouTube.
Historically, Christians have often used scripture like a hammer, to clobber each other over the head and reinforce a particular point of view. But is that how the Bible was intended to be used? Tom Yoder Neufeld helped the church dust off the Bible for the 21st Century at Mennonite Church Canada's Assembly 2012 in Vancouver this past July. Tom observes that "We have a tendency to shape the Bible to fit our cherished perceptions...We need the Bible to constantly call into question the way we've tailored things." Tom helped the audience explore the many nuances of biblical interpretation and discernment - historical context, English translation from the original text, situational context, and more, using 2 Corinthians 3 to illustrate the Apostle Paul's strategy in using scripture with the Corinthians. Also see Part 2. Also see the related video of Ken Hawkley and Terry Zimmerly presenting the related text - 2 Corinthians 3:1-6 - at 2012 Assembly closing worship.
In a departure from the usual interview format of Church Matters, story teller Soren Mennohawk (pen name) joins a campfire circle of creatures in a debate about what creates community. Listen in as moose, bison, coyote - and cow - discuss the pros and cons of forest creatures and domestic farm animals learning to live with one another.
What is the place of grandparents and their desire to pass on their faith to the younger generations in today's over-scheduled and fast-paced culture? Many grandparents are retiring early, and yearn for their grandchildren to have closer ties to their faith heritage, but find that the same techniques used with their children are out of place with grandchildren. Please Pass the Faith: The Art of Spiritual Grandparenting is the title of a new book by Elsie Rempel, Formation Consultant for Mennonite Church Canada. Elsie holds a master degree in theology with a focus on Mennonites, Children, and Communion, an education degree, has taught primary school in a Christian setting for 40 years, and is a grandparent of four youngsters. Her new book is a treasure trove of practical ideas and tips for grandparents wanting to pass on their faith to their grandchildren.
Willard Metzger travels extensively and gets to peer into the lives of people and their beliefs on a regular basis. He observes that there is a rapidly growing interest in Anabaptism around the world - and especially here in North America. Increasingly, people of all faiths and no faith are no longer seeing Anabaptism as an aberration of the Reformation, but a place where their minds and souls meet. But are Mennonite and Anabaptist churches prepared? Are we sufficiently grounded in scripture to be able to respond? Have we dropped Bible study and compromised our confidence? Metzger takes 1 Samuel and reveals another time in history when the "word of the Lord was rare."
There are two versions of this podcast: The short (15 min) radio version will be suitable for all audiences The longer (20 min) podcast version speaks especially to Mennonite Church Canada's membership and the Being a Faithful Church Process.
Willard Metzger travels extensively and gets to peer into the lives of people and their beliefs on a regular basis. He observes that there is a rapidly growing interest in Anabaptism around the world - and especially here in North America. Increasingly, people of all faiths and no faith are no longer seeing Anabaptism as an aberration of the Reformation, but a place where their minds and souls meet. But are Mennonite and Anabaptist churches prepared? Are we sufficiently grounded in scripture to be able to respond? Have we dropped Bible study and compromised our confidence? Metzger takes 1 Samuel and reveals another time in history when the "word of the Lord was rare."
There are two versions of this podcast: The short (15 min) radio version will be suitable for all audiences The longer (20 min) podcast version speaks especially to Mennonite Church Canada's membership and the Being a Faithful Church Process.
Mennonite Church Canada Executive Director Willard Metzger says that for any church to have integrity in Canada, it must work to heal relationships with its host people and host land. In this episode, guest Steve Heinrichs calls the church to be in solidarity and reconciliation with Canada's host peoples. Steve has been a Pastor in the Carrier territory of northern British Columbia and loves to help congregations grapple not only with the important issues that keep racial communities apart, but invites us all to do so with great hope.
Also listen to the story, Coyote's New Suit.
Coyote's New Suit is an Aboriginal tale about a vain Coyote - the Trickster - and his devious and mischievous helper, Raven. Together, they plot to expand Coyote's wardrobe by stealing the coats of other creatures - including the two-legged humans. By turns humourous and insightful, Steve Heinrichs the Director of Native Ministry for Mennonite Church Canada interprets the story for listeners here. Steve says that STORIES of Coyote and Raven can help us see Jesus in new ways - not necessarily as a trickster in the sense of this story, but as one who turned the world on its head with his radical (and mischievious) ways of being in the world, challenging cultural norms of his day.
Coyote's New Suit is best enjoyed in the context of Church Matters Episode 64, The Church and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. We recommend listening to both. The story is written by Thomas King, novelist and broadcaster who often writes about North America's First Nations. He is an advocate for First Nations causes. King is of Cherokee and Greek descent. His story is used here with his permission.
Burma - or Myanmar to some - has been much in the news of late. We've heard about an oppressive military ruling regime, poverty, conflict and violent responses to citizen protests, and a government that controls all the broadcast media. What we don't hear about in the mainstream media is the state of the church in Burma. Hear Burmese Christian and church leader John Uk (not his real name) reveal the state of the church in Burma.
Gerd Bartel is from British Columbia, has been a life long teacher in the school system there - and has shared his passion for the church by serving off and on for over 30 years as a church fundraiser. Most recently, he has retired at the end of 2011 after 12 years of saying thank you on behalf of Mennonite Church Canada, where he was the national church's Western Director of Resource Development since 2000. Gerd shares what he has learned from a decades-long commitment of serving the church in fundraising, and saying, "Thank you."
If pastors preached to each other, what would they say? Would they exhort each other? Confess their shortcomings? Willard Metzger, Executive Director of Mennonite Church Canada, pondered what it means to be worthy of God's calling, and confessed some of his fears and challenges in his ministry on January 26, 2012, at Pastors' Week, an event hosted by Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary in Elkhart, Indiana. The event is especially for pastors from Mennonite Church Canada and Mennonite Church USA.
This episode is Part 2 of a series that celebrates the 5th birthday of Church Matters. In Part 2, we re-visit the question of if and why the church matters in the world today. In Part 2, we ask the same questions of Willard Metzger, the Executive Director of Mennonite Church Canada, that we asked Robert J. Suderman, General Secretary of Mennonite Church Canada, in 2005. Willard believes the church is compelled to move in some new directions, such as more boldy proclaiming our Christian responsibility for creation care, and healing relationships with our Aboriginal neighbours.
This episode is Part 1 of a two part series that will celebrate the 5th birthday of Church Matters. For this series we re-visit the question of if and why the church matters in the world today. In Part 1, we re-play an interview with the then General Secretary of Mennonite Church Canada, Robert J. Suderman. In Part 2, we'll ask the same questions of Willard Metzger, the present General Secretary of Mennonite Church Canada (now re-named "Executive Director").
During Advent, the church re-tells the story of Jesus birth. Indeed, the word Advent means "coming." In the book of Revelation, we read about Jesus "coming again." When God's people first heard about Christ's birth, many were anticipating a new future and relief from oppression. Christians today anticipate God's new future in Jesus' coming - again.
Today, some Christians envision Jesus' return as a destructive, apocalyptic event. Others understand Jesus' return as the revelation of a new creation on earth, in which all things are again made new, where peace will reign eternally. Whichever way you understand the book of Revelation, Willard Metzger reminds us that the end is not ours, but that the end belongs to God. Metzger's message was recorded live at the 2011 Mennonite Church Canada Assembly in Waterloo, Ontario, on July 6.
Nelson Kraybill is a speaker, pastor, author, and former President of Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary. This episode is Part 2 of a sermon heard by participants at the Mennonite Church Canada Assembly 2011 in Waterloo, Ontario. The theme of the Assembly was "Remembering God's Future" and was based on Revelation 21 and 22. Kraybill's take on Revelation offers an alternative to popular interpretations of the Revelation in which the focus is often the apocalyptic destruction of creation.
Nelson Kraybill is a speaker, pastor, author, and former President of Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary. This episode is Part 1 of a sermon heard by participants at the Mennonite Church Canada Assembly 2011 in Waterloo, Ontario. The theme of the Assembly was "Remembering God's Future" and was based on Revelation 21 and 22. Kraybill's take on Revelation offers an alternative to popular interpretations of the Revelation in which the focus is often the apocalyptic destruction of creation.
In What Now? Mike Neufeld shares how the Nicene Creed has shaped Christendom and the church for centuries afterword, highlighting the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus - but brushing off the life of Christ and what it means for believers. Mike pushes listeners to ask what they will do in response to what we know about Jesus' life. A husband and father of four, Mike teaches Church History at Mennonite Brethren Collegiate Institute in Winnipeg, Manitoba. He and his family have lived in Kenya where he taught at Roslyn Christian Academy. He and his family attend Home Street Mennonite Church. He preached this sermon at Home Street Mennonite Church on Epiphany Sunday, Jan. 2, 2011.
In Hard Core Christian, Lynda Loewen delivers a compelling story and challenge to congregants of Home Street Mennonite Church in Winnipeg, Manitoba, based on the story of Jesus healing the blind man from John 9. Her presentation was recorded during Lent, on April 3, 2011. "The mystery of faith is that we have to have it in order to see things," says Loewen. Tune it for this wonderful, insightful, and accessible presentation. Join host Dan Dyck and guest Lynda Loewen from Home Street Mennonite Church
Mennonite Church Canada has had to reduce its activities to more closely align with its revenue. Administrators in other Christian traditions have already had to make cuts, while others are in the process of doing so.In a scenario where church members are aging and cradle rolls are not replenishing the pews at previous rates, will the church have to get used to doing less? Join host Dan Dyck and guest Willard Metzger, Executive Director, as they look at the future of the church and all that it does.
The words are sometimes thrown around interchangeably, but there is a big difference: a job may earn a living, but a vocation is what you discern to be your personal calling. Choosing whether you have a job or a vocation can make a profound difference in your life.
Janet Plenert has intentionally followed her vocational path for 25 years. Her work with Mennonite Church Canada has been both a job and a vocation. Although she has no intention of changing her vocation, her present ministry with Mennonite Church Canada has drawn to a close. Through Janet's stories of ministry we will explore the expression of her calling in various contexts in Canada and around the world.
Stuart Murray has been intrigued by Anabaptist theology since he was first introduced to it. Born into the Plymouth Brethren tradition, he became involved with a mission team in a very multi-cultural part of London, England, as a young man. This work grew into a church plant in that neighbourhood, which he led for 12 years. During this time he sought out new resources on discipleship, poverty, justice, community, and violence, and found a number of helpful books written by Mennonites with a legacy of Anabaptism. "The more I read, the more I thought I identified with the Anabaptists," he says. Now, he is the author of The Naked Anabaptist, a popular book that is re-igniting interest in this particular faith tradition among adherents, while uncovering its core values to many readers for the first time.
Terry is a Mi'kmaq /Acadian, ordained to ministry in 1983 but having served in full-time Native ministry since 1979. Terry is actively engaged in helping Native men and women embrace the person, work, teaching, life, death and resurrection of Jesus - as indigenous people. He is passionate about transmitting Christian faith from the older to the younger generation, as well as helping Canada's First Nations people and white Canadians understand their Christian faith in new ways. An inspiring and articulate speaker, LeBlanc brings fresh, out of the box thinking to old, in the box issues and challenges of the church.
Willard Metzger is the new Executive Director of Mennonite Church Canada. In this interview, we ask why the church is important to him, what he has learned from his past experience as a Mennonite pastor, volunteer chair of Mennonite Church Canada's Witness Council, and Director of Church Relations for World Vision - and what he thinks makes a strong church leader.
In his last Mennonite Church Canada Assembly as General Secretary, Dr. Robert J. Suderman taught a series of Bible studies on the theme text of the assembly - Colossians 3: 12 - 17. The church is God's chosen vehicle of reconciliation and peace in the world. Yet today, the church has fallen out of favour in society at large. Church attendance, membership, and commitments continues to decline. A wide spread dislike of institutions permeates society. Has the church lost its sense of vocation? What can scripture re-teach us about the church's vocation? The peace of Christ? And how do we best apply it in today's context? In his presentation, Jack makes reference to the Canadian Council of Churches non violent action plan for Canada in Afghanistan, on the Project Ploughshares website.
Daniel Pantoja and his wife Joji are Mennonite Church Canada Witness workers with a passion for building peace among Christians and Muslims in the Philippines. In an area that has suffered ongoing violence over land issues, the Pantojas share a clear desire to love and serve all people in the name of Jesus - and willingly enter into conflict zones without military escort. Through their ministry, Peacebuilders Community Inc., the Pantojas teach that God's Shalom is found through harmony with God, with self, with others and with Creation. By focusing on relationships and kindling genuine open-minded dialogue, the Pantojas are walking with their Christians and Muslim friends toward peace.Part 2 of 2 episodes.
Daniel Pantoja and his wife Joji are Mennonite Church Canada Witness workers with a passion for building peace among Christians and Muslims in the Philippines. In an area that has suffered ongoing violence over land issues, the Pantojas share a clear desire to love and serve all people in the name of Jesus - and willingly enter into conflict zones without military escort. Through their ministry, Peacebuilders Community Inc., the Pantojas teach that God's Shalom is found through harmony with God, with self, with others and with Creation. By focusing on relationships and kindling genuine open-minded dialogue, the Pantojas are walking with their Christians and Muslim friends toward peace.Part 1 of 2 episodes.
Jeanette Hanson, a long-term international church worker in China with Mennonite Church Canada says that Christians in China have never experienced as much freedom as they have today, yet Christians comprise no more than 1-2% of China's population. In some areas of China, there may be only one trained church leader for every ten-thousand Christians. The church is challenged with finding its place in a society that permits religious freedom yet has laws that make it difficult for people to worship together.
In the midst of this complexity, principles of Anabaptist theology are taking root and forming missional congregations through China Vision, a growing network between existing pastors and church leaders. Focus is shifting from building the church to building the Kingdom of God. China Vision is transforming lives by modeling Christ's love through increased involvement in communities beyond the church. Part 2 of 2 episodes.
Jeanette Hanson, a long-term international church worker in China with Mennonite Church Canada says that Christians in China have never experienced as much freedom as they have today, yet Christians comprise no more than 1-2% of China's population. In some areas of China, there may be only one trained church leader for every ten-thousand Christians. The church is challenged with finding its place in a society that permits religious freedom yet has laws that make it difficult for people to worship together.
In the midst of this complexity, principles of Anabaptist theology are taking root and forming missional congregations through China Vision, a growing network between existing pastors and church leaders. Focus is shifting from building the church to building the Kingdom of God. China Vision is transforming lives by modeling Christ's love through increased involvement in communities beyond the church. Part 1 of 2 episodes.
Bill C-363 - calling for the establishment of a government department of peace - is presently being processed through Canada's parliamentary system. Should the church - a long time advocate for the separation of church and state - advocate for Bill C-363? Why or why not? Tune in to this episode of Church Matters and hear how one senior youth group and their pastor have responded to Bill C-363.
Does denominational identity still matter? If so, who will preserve it, and how? Are leaders, lay leaders, and people in the pews becoming less selective in choosing resources used to teach Christian education? In a pick and choose world of widely (and freely) available religious resources on the internet, denominational publishers can no longer rely only on the historic loyalty of parishioners. But cutting through the mass of advertising, marketing, and promotion from large, mainstream publishers and media ministries in a digital, download immediately culture is a challenging and expensive proposition. What to do when congregations become disinterested in the offerings of their own church publisher? Join guest Ron Rempel in this episode of Church Matters as we unpack the enigmatic world of resourcing the quest of the faithful for holistic Christian discipleship.
"They should get over it already... stop living in the past and start living into the future." These are words frequently uttered by non-Aboriginal, mainstream civilians in Canada. Is the church equally insensitive and ambivalent to a people who have experienced forced displacement and the resulting family breakdown, addictions, and high rates of suicide?
Mainstream, non-Aboriginal society in Canada can be, generally speaking, ambivalent about its responsibilities in keeping the promises made to First Nations peoples when Europeans began arriving in centuries past. Many people today feel they have no obligation to be held accountable for historical promises that have left an indelible imprint on an entire culture. Yet, governments continue to make commitments that are inherited by subsequent generations. Recent examples are the North American Free Trade agreement, developed by a previous government, or the pledges of the G8 nations toward the Millennium Development Goals. In this sense, every Canadian has inherited a Treaty and becomes a Treaty person. But more importantly, what must the church do in good conscience, to redeem itself in light of the failed promises made to Aboriginal people through historical treaties too numerous to name? What is a biblical perspective on covenant and promise?
Adrian Jacobs is a Cayuga and member of the Six Nations Iroquois Confederacy from the Six Nations reserve in southern Ontario. Adrian is an author, has been a church planter on his home reserve, a director for Native ministries with the Wesleyan church, founding member of the Indigenous Christian Alliance, and more recently on the ministry staff of My People International. Tune in to this Church Matters podcast for a holistic, scripturally based view on a churchly response to keeping promises.
Part Two of two episodes.
"They should get over it already... stop living in the past and start living into the future." These are words frequently uttered by non-Aboriginal, mainstream civilians in Canada. Is the church equally insensitive and ambivalent to a people who have experienced forced displacement and the resulting family breakdown, addictions, and high rates of suicide?
Mainstream, non-Aboriginal society in Canada can be, generally speaking, ambivalent about its responsibilities in keeping the promises made to First Nations peoples when Europeans began arriving in centuries past. Many people today feel they have no obligation to be held accountable for historical promises that have left an indelible imprint on an entire culture. Yet, governments continue to make commitments that are inherited by subsequent generations. Recent examples are the North American Free Trade agreement, developed by a previous government, or the pledges of the G8 nations toward the Millennium Development Goals. In this sense, every Canadian has inherited a Treaty and becomes a Treaty person. But more importantly, what must the church do in good conscience, to redeem itself in light of the failed promises made to Aboriginal people through historical treaties too numerous to name? What is a biblical perspective on covenant and promise?
Adrian Jacobs is a Cayuga and member of the Six Nations Iroquois Confederacy from the Six Nations reserve in southern Ontario. Adrian is an author, has been a church planter on his home reserve, a director for Native ministries with the Wesleyan church, founding member of the Indigenous Christian Alliance, and more recently on the ministry staff of My People International. Tune in to this Church Matters podcast for a holistic, scripturally based view on a churchly response to keeping promises.
Part One of Two episodes.
What is a missional church? It's a lot of things, depending on the context. Jamie Arpin Ricci is leading one version of a missional church - the Little Flowers Community - in Winnipeg's downtown West End. The Little Flowers web site says, "...we seek to make the mission of God the organizing reality of everything that we are and everything that we do that makes us missional." Give a listen to this episode of Church Matters and find out how the Little Flowers Community does missional church in inner city Winnipeg, where residents range from the down and out to professionals reclaiming century homes.
Rev. Dr. Hamilton is leading the planning of the World Religions Summit 2010: Interfaith Leaders in the G8 Nations. Her hope is to mobilize Canadians to meet with every elected Member of Parliament in Canada and hold them to account to the promises they have already made, and to the promises they will make. In particular, leaders of the worlds' religions want assurances that the Millennium Development Goals made 10 years ago will be met by the pledged deadline of 2015. Can people of different faiths work together on a commonly held belief in the Golden Rule? Tune in to find out - and learn about Hamilton's broken stereotypes regarding atheists, agnostics, and social justice.
About 20% of congregations experience, significant, long term conflict. The challenge is not the conflict, but whether it is turned into a growth experience or a divisive one, say our guests David Pankratz and Lois Edmund. David Pankratz is the Director of the Institute for Community Peacebuilding at Canadian Mennonite University in Winnipeg. Lois Edmund is Assistant Professor of Conflict Resolution Studies at Menno Simons College in Winnipeg and a consulting Clinical Psychologist. Join them for some sage advice on how to respond to conflict in the church.
Macau easily topples Las Vegas as the world's leading gambling centre. People from all over East Asia visit Macau to risk their fortunes and nest eggs - or to find better paying jobs in the lucrative gaming industry. Starting an outreach church in this setting comes with challenges and blessings. In this episode, Mennonite Church Canada Witness workers George and Tobia Veith tell how they share God's stories of healing and hope with people from all walks of life in one of the most densely populated cities in the world.
As communication technologies and international travel grow, the global village shrinks. So too with the church. Many Christians are struggling with economic oppression, conflict, poverty, and lack of healthcare and educations in their homelands. Can a church become a global church? How? Danisa Ndlovu, President of Mennonite World Conference, offers some stories and tips of how the international church stands with struggling churches around the world, including in his country of Zimbabwe.
The ongoing health of the church requires that believers continue to strengthen their overall capacity to discern the word and the mind of God as the church wrestles with the critical agenda of our time. Robert J. Suderman, General Secretary of Mennonite Church Canada, has written a paper to guide the church in matters of being a faithful body in times of tumult and widespread disagreement on a variety of issues and biblical understandings. The paper is entitled Being a Faithful Church: Testing the Spirits in the Midst of Hermeneutical Ferment. In his paper, Suderman presents a forgotten but refreshing reminder that the church needs to re-ignite its commitment and its capacity to be a people of God's word. In this interview, Suderman discusses the key points of how he thinks believers and congregations can get beyond disagreements when discerning the word of God together. This episode was recorded live at the 2009 Mennonite Church Canada Assembly in Saskatoon, Sask.
Gordon Allaby and his Mennonite congregation in Osler, Saskatchewan are passionate about non-violent peace building. Just as importantly, they have demonstrated considerable creativity in getting the peace message out into the public square in their part of the world. Gordon is the son of a Baptist minister, is both a Canadian and American citizen who himself was interrogated by USA military officials after applying to be a conscientious objector. In 2008, Osler Mennonite Church sponsored a Mennonite Church Canada resolution challenging congregations across Canada to speak more openly and directly to the public to challenge the increasing militarization of Canadian society. The resolution was overwhelmingly passed, and in 2009 resulted in a Peace in the Public Square advertising campaign.
What can the church learn from the South African church's experience with apartheid and its Truth and Reconciliation Commission? In Part 2 we ask Dr. Meiring what the church in Canada can learn from the South African church experience, and how we can apply this knowledge to the recently launched Aboriginal Truth and Reconciliation process in Canada. Dr. Piet Meiring is an ordained minister in the Dutch Reformed Church, a theology professor at the University of Pretoria, has authored or co-authored thirty books, and has been deeply involved in apartheid issues in South Africa for over three decades. Most recently he served with South Africa's truth and reconciliation commission, and has since been invited to serve as an advisor in a similar process in Rwanda. In Part 1 of this two part series, we learn about the church and its role in both supporting and dismantling apartheid.
What can the church learn from the South African church's experience with apartheid and its Truth and Reconciliation Commission? Dr. Piet Meiring is an ordained minister in the Dutch Reformed Church, a theology professor at the University of Pretoria, has authored or co-authored thirty books, and has been deeply involved in apartheid issues in South Africa for over three decades. Most recently he served with South Africa's truth and reconciliation commission, and has since been invited to serve as an advisor in a similar process in Rwanda. In Part 1 of this two part series, we learn about the church and its role in both supporting and dismantling apartheid. In Part 2 we ask Dr. Meiring what the church in Canada can learn from the South African church experience, and how we can apply this knowledge to the recently launched Aboriginal Truth and Reconciliation process in Canada.
Doug Gay lectures on Practical Theology at the University of Glasgow, Scotland, is an ordained minister, has been an inner-city pastor in London, England. He also has a special interest in Anabaptist theology. Doug talks about the influence of Anabaptist and Mennonite theology in the ecumenical church setting in the United Kingdom.
Daylins Rufin, active Baptist pastor and seminary professor in Cuba, dispels myths about the church in Cuba.
What does it mean to have food security, what does the Bible have to say to us about food security, and what does the church have to do with food security? Join Church Matters and guest Stefan Epp, Food Policy Analyst with the Manitoba Food Charter, as we explore what food security and the church mean in both local and international contexts.
Canada's indigenous peoples have had a rocky relationship with the Christian church. Can this relationship be healed, and if so, what can the ordinary person contribute to the healing? In this episode, we explore the topic with Anita Keith. Anita is a Christian of Mohawk, Algonquin and British descent. She is an Ordained Minister, an instructor of Aboriginal Education at Red River College in Winnipeg, and an Administrator for the North American Institute for Indigenous Theological Studies.
Gordon Toombs had the best intentions. He wanted to stay faithful to his belief that Jesus taught all his followers to be non-violent peacemakers. When the Canadian government conscripted him for World War in 1941, they promised he could serve as a medic by declaring himself a conscientious objector (CO). That promise was broken. Gordon felt he had betrayed his deeply held beliefs - and kept his failed CO declaration a secret for 60 years. This is his story.
Church and state: How can we create space for meaningful interaction? How should the church call governing leaders to accountability, and how can we do this fruitfully? And how can the church be faithful in its relations with the state? This episode's guest, Reverend Doctor Karen Hamilton, General Secretary of the Canadian Council of Churches, helps explore this topic as Canada prepares to host the G8 leaders as well as a G8 Religious Leaders Summit. What can the church do to hold leaders accountable to the Millennium Development Goals?
When the news is full of stories about devalued pension plans and retirement savings, even God's people can be tempted to make ethically questionable investments that promise temptingly high returns. What is the role of the church in tough economic times? Gary Hawton, CEO of Meritas, a socially responsible investment firm, has some words of wisdom for jittery Christians in times such as these.
The many recent books on the market indicate a strong, renewed interest in Jesus. Some works tackle Jesus as a highly moral man with some good teachings, others interpret Jesus as a divine messenger from God. Authors use research from historical documents, scholarly works, and archaeological information. This episode explores how we know what we know about Jesus, and what this means for the church.
Guest: Tom Yoder Neufeld, associate professor of Religious Studies at Conrad Grebel University College in Waterloo, Ontario, author and respected scholar on Jesus, and a speaker much in demand. He has also been a Mennonite pastor and prison chaplain.
The many recent books on the market indicate a strong, renewed interest in Jesus. Some works tackle Jesus as a highly moral man with some good teachings, others interpret Jesus as a divine messenger from God. Authors use research from historical documents, scholarly works, and archaeological information. This episode explores how we know what we know about Jesus, and what this means for the church.
Guest: Tom Yoder Neufeld, associate professor of Religious Studies at Conrad Grebel University College in Waterloo, Ontario, author and respected scholar on Jesus, and a speaker much in demand. He has also been a Mennonite pastor and prison chaplain.
This episode is part 2 of a two part series on the Church's call to generosity. Don talks about how his congregation seeks to be faithful as they balance the vast need in the world with the passions of people in the congregation.Also see Part One of this discussion.
Peace discussions can be controversial. In this special half-hour interview with Golden West Radio, Robert J. Suderman, General Secretary of Mennonite Church Canada talks about a peace meeting with President Ahmadinejad of Iran in New York City on September 25, 2008. The controversial dinner meeting saw Christians outside the hotel protesting against Christians inside the hotel. Suderman reflects on how unhelpful and hurtful it was to have Christians name calling and hurling insults at other Christians as they entered the building.Inside the event, however, things were different, said Suderman. "There were representatives of the Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus, Jews, Muslims, Christians, Iranis, and Americans . . . and all talked about peace as though that is their primary agenda. And all of them advocated non-violence in some way or another."
This episode is part 1 of a two part series on the Church's call to generosity. Don talks about how his congregation seeks to be faithful as they balance the vast need in the world with the passions of people in the congregation. Also see Part Two of this discussion.
Fernando Enns proposed the idea of The Decade to Overcome Violence (DOV) to the World Council of Churches in 1998. One year later it was approved, and preparations began. It was officially launched in 2001. The DOV "strives to strengthen existing efforts and networks for overcoming violence." Enns hopes that the label "peace church" will eventually become obsolete; all churches who strive for a culture of peace will get back to the centre of the gospel.
Enns is also a professor of theology at Heidelberg University in Germany, an author, an advisor to the World Council of Churches, and a Mennonite pastor.
Russian Mennonites have a lengthy ancestral history with Ukraine. As part of a long migration through Eastern Europe, many Mennonites of ethnic Germanic origin sojourned there for up to 150 years, with approximately 50,000 emigrating to Canada between 1870 and 1950 to escape disagreeable government policies, and Bolshevik Revolution during the 1920s. Today, Canadian Mennonites still relate to people in Ukraine, most often through church-based connections. Anya Alipova (left on picture), is a Church Council member and Sunday School Director at Zaporozhye Evangelical Mennonite Church, and a professional interpreter. In this episode, we asked Anna what the Mennonite Church means to her. Ala Syniakova (right on picture), is Church Council Chair at Zaporozhye Evangelical Mennonite Church and a medical doctor. They deeply value what it means to be part of a Mennonite Church in Ukraine.
One cannot prevent a tornado or earthquake, but working volunteers are often at the ready when it comes time to recover. In a pandemic situation, prevention and preparedness are key because the many ready volunteers may themselves be ill or be fully engaged with their own families and needs. A pandemic will stress the public health system beyond capacity - governments will turn to churches and non-profits for help. So how can the church prepare? Listen in to learn more about how the situation might look, and what churches can do.
Richard Twiss is a Rosebud Lakota theologian from Vancouver, Washington, the co-founder of Wiconi International, the author of One Church, Many Tribes (Regal Books, 2000), and a Doctor of Missiology candidate at Asbury Theological Seminary. His ministry encourages Indigenous people from North America and around the world to use appropriate aspects of their cultural traditions for expressing Christ-centred theology. Using the lense of biblical theology, he recognizes culture as the heart language of the Indigenous church - a language that will free Indigenous peoples to live the abundant life that Jesus came to provide.
Heavy metal music at a funeral in a Mennonite Church? When an un-churched young man in Rudy's community died suddenly and tragically, the victim's family approached Rudy and his congregation to host the funeral. Since then, some amazing things have happened.
For a congregation to carry out God's work in the world, it is necessary to gather. The same is true for wider levels of the organized church - including the denomination (Acts 11: 25-26). Peters-Pries says, "We would never expect the local church to be effective in carrying out God's mission in this world unless the local church gathered regularly. In the same way, the national church needs to gather in order to be effective ambassadors for God's healing and hope." This summer, Mennonite Church Canada will continue its tradition of meeting annually (July 7-8, 2008) where delegates will gather to pray, worship, and discern God's leading together. From July 8-10, Mennonite Church Canada will meet jointly with Mennonite Church USA for a "People's Summit for Faithful Living." Both events will focus on the theme, "At the Crossroads: Promise and Peril" (Deut. 4:6). Christians are living in especially challenging times, and church unity is being threatened at many levels. Peters-Pries offers a compelling rationale for as many people as possible to participate in these events.
Guests: Bruce Faurschou, Executive Secretary of the Conference of Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario for the United Church of Canada;Tim Dyck, General Secretary of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference;Ruth Vince of the Evangelical Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada;Donald Phillips, Diocesan Bishop for the Anglican Diocese of Rupertsland;Archbishop Lawrence Huculak of the Ukrainian Catholic Church of Manitoba, and Senior Bishop for the Ukrainian Catholic Church across Canada;Paul Johnson (pictured), Assistant to the National Bishop for Ecumenical Relations in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada.
Mennonite Church Canada recently hosted a gathering of inter-denominational leaders to celebrate the 100th year of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. We asked church leaders from other faith traditions two questions: Why and how does the church matter in your denomination?Why is it important to have a Week of Prayer for Christian Unity? Download the broadcast and hear what these leaders had to say.
How can we share the gifts we have as a church with churches in other parts of the world? And what do churches in other parts of the world have to offer the church in Canada? Join Charles Mahlangu, Principal at the Evangelical Seminary of Southern Africa and his wife Dolores in conversation as we ask these and other questions about what churches can do for one another on a global level.
What messages are we sending to our children and youth when we practice communion? Are there ways we can include and encourage them in their faith journey that honour scripture and the intent of communion? Join with this conversation to learn and discern what is right for you and your congregation.
Daniel Pantoja and his wife Joji are developing a peace building ministry in a region of the Philippines that has experienced years of land conflict among indigenous, Muslim, and Christian people. Using a multiplier model, he is training peace workers who can in turn train more peace workers to promote dialogue in place of violence, and reconciliation in place of vengeance.
Why do churches/denominations need to do fundraising? Do non-church charities compete with the church for donations? Does the church keep too much money for itself? How do people decide what causes they'll donate to? Do personal giving preferences trump congregational giving decisions? Join guest Al Rempel, Director of Resource Development for Mennonite Church Canada, and researcher Lori Reesor to learn about the abundance model of funding ministry.
Since his boyhood, Gary Hawton has been curious about how God's people use their money. Today he is CEO of Meritas Mutual Funds, a socially responsible investment firm that helps people speak into the corporate boardrooms of the world through their financial investments. Gary shares stories that illustrate what socially responsible investment is, and why it should matter to people - especially to Christians and the Church - and people can make a difference in the world by how they choose to invest.
Anostocio is a Mennonite pastor and teacher from Colombia, temporarily living in Canada to escape threats on his life. As a teacher and peace activist in Colombia, Anostocio is perceived as a threat to paramilitary and other armed groups who choose to control wealth and resolve conflict using violence. Caught between great personal concern for his wife and two daughters who remain in Colombia and his own survival, Anostocio remains a steadfast witness of Jesus' call to peace. Join Church Matters hosts Janet Plenert and Dan Dyck as they explore Anostocio's convictions.*psuedonym
For the first time since the Korean war in the 1950s, Canada is involved in a direct combat role - this time in Afghanistan. Military advertisements, recruiting, military funding, and news reporting on Canada's military role have significantly increased in recent years. Mennonite Church Canada has sent a letter to the Prime Minister advocating for a legal option that would allow taxpayers to direct their portion of military taxes toward peace initiatives. What else can and should a peace church be saying to Canada's leaders about this? Is there evidence that peaceful solutions to conflict really exist? How can Mennonites engage and strengthen the ecumenical community in peace theology? Join Church Matters hosts Janet Plenert and Dan Dyck as they engage Mennonite Church Canada General Secretary Robert J. Suderman in discussion on these and other questions.
Does the church really have something to say about creation care? David Neufeld holds a PhD in Environmental Planning and represents the Mennonite Creation Care Network a bi-national body "...actively engaged in the care and restoration of God's creation." Neufeld explains why and how the church as a body of Christ can have an impact on care for God's creation.
Sarah Thompson, 23 year-old Fulbright scholar, speaks out about young adults and the church, her role with the Mennonite World Conference Amigos program and its Global Youth Summit in 2009, and the global church. Sarah reveals where young adults are at in their love-hate relationship with the church, how the church can better respond and retain young adults, and reflects on her perspective of the global church.
Karen reflects on a recent visit to Mennonites/Anabaptists in Uruguay, a reunion with her IMPaCT (International Mennonite Pastors Coming Together) pastor partner there, why and how the church matters in this country and for these people, and tells the moving story of Rodriguez, a Montevideo homeless man taken in by a local congregation.