Inspiration and reflection

• Telling others what you have tasted

Perspectives

• The power of God at a funeral wake
• Discipleship in the family
• Holding space
• A rich and satisfying life
• The gospel without walls

Resources

• Mennonite World Conference Annual report: 2023
• Peace Sunday 2024 Worship Resources
• The unity of the Spirit 
• AMBS-MWC collaboration forms leaders for the global church
• Feast at a buffet of music
• Executive Committee approves theological education and creation care grants

General Secretary

• Continuous movement and a contrite heart

Sharing the food of life

“Anyone who tasted Jesus is good should tell others what he/she tasted.”

Evangelism is a scary word for many of us, but this simple advice offered by pastors in Ethiopia helps to simplify the task. Although we each bear responsibility to share the gospel, it is the Holy Spirit that changes hearts. Our job is merely to speak up about how we have experienced the goodness of God.

In this issue of Courier, we share stories of churches growing in different ways. Bursting at the seams with growing congregations, the leadership team of Meserete Kristos Church shares their 10 step strategy for church growth.

The local congregation of Anolaima in Colombia is growing trees and grass and birds as they plant seeds of the gospel in the hearts of visitors to their “IgleParque.”

And in secular Netherlands, a Mennonite retreat centre and associated camping network live out transforming lives in community, running toward the questions and letting God fill in the spaces.

You will also find testimonies of the church community fostering the growth of faith from the 2024 Renewal event in Curitiba, Brazil: Transformed, together we live Jesus. In our resource section, there is news to pique your interest in the upcoming 500th anniversary of Anabaptism.

Finally, we need to hear from you!

How have you been moved by the sharing you read in Courier? How have you shared that with your wider church community? We are seeking your opinion about what you find most valuable in Courier. Please scan the QR code here or visit here to fill out the survey.

This survey will only take five minutes of your time, but your response will help MWC keep Courier relevant for you and your church. Thank you for your help.

—Karla Braun is editor, writer and website coordinator for MWC. She lives in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.