Church celebrates 75th

On September 14 the Boissevain (Man.) Mennonite Brethren Church celebrated its 75th anniversary with the theme of “Telling the Works of God.” We reflected on God’s faithfulness during the last 75 years.

The church began in September 1928 in a barn in the Whitewater area. Later, the church began meeting in homes, and, as the group grew from its original 35 members, in the Strathallan School.

In 1944 the church constructed its own building on Aikman Street. Many committed people served as preachers and deacons over the next 25 years.

During the ministry of A.J. Froese the church services changed to English instead of German and in time families started sitting together during the services.

A missionary focus has been a high priority for Boissevain MB. Henry and Helen Derksen, and Mary Stobbe went out as career missionaries. The church began Boys Brigades and Pioneer Girls in 1970, which was possible because of the construction of a new building again in 1967.

Adolph and Hilda Redekopp came to serve as full-time paid pastor couple in 1973. Until this time all positions had been volunteer. Following the Redekopps, John and Beatrice Klassen served for four years, followed by Wally and Martha Kroeker for 15 years. In the 1990s Rick Penner came on board as the first part-time youth pastor. Geoff and Kelly Unrau now serve as youth pastors, and are in their seventh year working with a joint youth group with Whitewater Mennonite Church. The current pastor, Tom and Andrea Warner began their ministry at Boissevain in 1997.

A choir, led by Hilda Dueck, sang German songs and former pastor Wally Kroeker spoke on “Changes” that have been made.

Peter Derksen and Mary Dyck, who were present at the first service, were present at the celebration. Derksen spoke on the beginnings of the church; people representing many age groups in the church, from seniors to youth, also spoke or had a part in the service. There was singing by the children, who later released balloons with Bible verses attached.

Afterward we enjoyed a bison steak and burger barbeque, and fellowship with friends, some of whom came from B.C. and Ontario to celebrate with us. The day ended with a traditional Faspa and an evening celebration service.

—Emmy Martens