May 13th
From The Desk of Our Executive Minister

Better Together 4 | MCBC at 90: Westcoast Anabaptist (Resource) Network — WA(R)N

 MCBC at 90: Westcoast Anabaptist (Resource) Network — WA(R)N

The "Regional Church" is a bit of a misnomer, because there is no regional, national, or universal church without the local church. The power of the Holy Spirit is most on display in local congregations and the lives of believers. By design, the local church is God's Plan A — a sign and signpost of a different way of being human, infused by the grace, Spirit, and teachings of Jesus.

So the Regional Church is really, first of all, a Resource Network. To put it another way: the regional and national should be laser-focused on whatever moves local churches toward being healthy, outward-facing, and connected.

Our three main ministry areas are a good start: (1) Cultivating Anabaptist Vision, (2) Growing Community, and (3) Engaging God's World. I'd argue they still need greater alignment with strategies that help local churches live this out in an outward direction, and less dilution from secondary priorities, good as they are.

Growing Community: We nurture vibrant faith communities across generations:

  • Church Planting & Renewal: Starting new Jesus-centered communities and revitalizing existing congregations, like Valley Road Church, which recently celebrated its two-year anniversary
  • Camp Squeah: A beloved ministry serving children, youth, and families through summer camps, retreats, and outdoor education; recent expansion is igniting a new chapter of growth and impact
  • Youth Ministry: Recent growth shows young people engaging not just in events but in the whole life of the church, including the annual Impact Youth Retreat
  • Young Adults Ministry: Fostering a healthy culture of faith formation for the next generation of church leaders
  • Women's Ministry: Supporting and empowering women in discipleship and leadership

Does your church share these three priorities? Do you see them as an umbrella for the other things we've named?

And share your stories of goodness with us! I know quite a few churches have had spring baptisms and new members. Let's celebrate together!

+Boese