A Menno Minute

Bridgebuilding With a Lower Case B

As this work will now stop growing through one person, it is time to pass the torch! I invite us to consider: that the call to following Jesus in his Bridgebuilding footsetps is – must be -- part of our theology, lived out in our common life together. Bridgebuilding is not just “a good idea.” Living into this call is the stuff of our living stories – our witness to the sacred work of complete discipleship. All of us have different capacities of time and energy to do this work, but I propose that unless we do this work, and celebrate it together through sharing of stories, we stop growing in our life journey in Christ.

"He Who Has an Ear"

May we, as Mennonite Church Alberta, be a people who refuse to let spiritual noise drown out the Spirit’s leading. May we cultivate ears that hear what the Spirit is saying today. And may renewed hearing lead us into renewed leadership, mission, and faithfulness.

'Four Strong Winds' and a Joint Council Preview

We covet your prayers. We are living in a time when the world feels like it is losing its moorings. While we take that seriously, we also know that God’s future is for peace and flourishing for all as this is the way of Jesus in the gospels.

Reflections from our Indigenous Relations Working Group Workshops at Gathering 2026

In the second session, we heard a story of learning from Elder Ollie that the Camp Valaqua old chapel site, by the creek, used to a be a sacred gathering place for ceremony, and how grateful Ollie was that this place continues to be used for sacred gatherings.    

As we continue on the path of understanding Truth and living into Reconciliation, may we put into practice the wisdom that came together in our sessions!
May it be so! Amen.

Slush Camp 2026 Reflection

It was such a blessing to have more than 50 youth and young adults out at Camp Valaqua for our yearly Slush Camp! It was awesome to see youth and YLT step out of their comfort zone to lead activities, help with song leading, lead grace before meals, and chat with new people (MCA Priority Statement 3)! Thank you to our wonderful cooks and kitchen volunteers for keeping us so well fed. Our hearts are full with many memories made around God’s circle and under the tall, tall trees of Valaqua!

CCWG Reflection

"I am river, I speak for all rivers. I journey through many places, winding, bending, and flowing in communities, marches, down mountains, and across valleys. Sometimes I struggle when I feel the splash of garbage cloud my view or the thickness of oil enter my blood. I try to understand why the humans are doing this, but it can be hard to make my voice heard over all the noise.” - Participant sharing from the session

Thoughts on the Next 10 Years for Mennonite Church Alberta

I pray that our view of humanity is formed more by “made in the image of God,” rather than “fallen short of the glory of God,” because our approach to service and the nature of our interactions with others will reflect how positive our attitude toward people is.

I pray that we may see ourselves, too, as God sees us – as worthy of love, and as ones who belong.

Ministry Through Music

I was 8 years old when I heard my parents discuss the prospects of my beginning piano lessons. So sitting up in bed that night, I excitedly propped up my quilt into a pretend piano, running my fingers up and down the “keys”. I was incredibly eager. But this was the late 1940s. Money was scarce, and my parents had to dip into the government’s Children’s Allowance fund to pay for 75-cent lessons. We also did not have a piano, so to practice I would walk from school to my Oma’s place to do just that on my aunt’s piano. It wasn’t until later that my family bought a piano for $75.

A March Gathering Prequel

I look forward to a weekend of visiting and reconnecting,  learning, inspiration from speakers and the music as well as an amazing play, Spirit Acts. I know hours and days went into the planning and execution of this full weekend so I pray it will be a great turnout.

Knitting Prayers

Sarah Bessey is a theologian (and knitter!) who writes regularly about breath prayers. She recommends choosing one or two lines to ponder, and then breathe through them. I’ve always liked the idea of breath prayers – I really struggle to set aside time every day to pray, but I have no problem breathing… this seems a good way to be in contact with God, and I can just talk to Them about what’s going on.

The Relationship Between Pastors and Leaders

Being colleagues with other pastors means having partners in both the joys and sorrows of ministry. It means sharing wisdom and laughter, offering a listening ear, and providing practical help when needed. It is a blessing that enriches our leadership, deepens our faith, and equips us to serve our congregations with greater compassion and skill. As we continue to meet, pray, and retreat together, we deeply value the prayers of the congregations we are privileged to lead.

Pastoral Transitions -- Pastor Terry

MCA brothers and sisters: let us not be too quick to run away from the wilderness. The Spirit can transform us there. And in the words of the ancient prayer for the First Sunday of Lent: “God…come quickly to help us…and as you know the weaknesses of each of us, let each one find you mighty to save.”