Gathering 2004

the biennial convention of the canadian mb churches

refresh, renew, reach out
toronto  •  july 7–10

“Go out where the water is deeper . . . Let down your nets and you will catch many fish . . . Don‘t be afraid! From now on you'll be fishing for people.”

—Jesus (Luke 5)

Urban Plunge

A Mennonite Brethren convention often evokes memories of sitting for hours in business sessions. This summer’s Gathering 2004 will pleasantly surprise you. On Thursday and Friday afternoons, July 8 and 9, participants of all ages are invited to plunge into Toronto for a mission experience. There is even a late-night trip after the Friday evening service!

One of Gathering’s goals is to leave Toronto different because the MB Church met there, and urban plunges, in part, will help achieve this. On Thursday, July 8, youth (ages14+) will have opportunity to plunge with street kids and there is also an adult Urban Plunge. Friday, July 9, an intergenerational Plunge will take place interacting with a church plant in one of the neediest areas in Canada. Friday also offers a Late Night Plunge that promises a spiritual scavenger hunt you will not want to miss. Whether you are 14, 44 or 84, you will have an opportunity to engage in ministry with the people of Toronto!

Jean Barsness recently spoke at the mission weekend at Forest Grove Community Church, Saskatoon. She described the essentials of an effective short-term mission trip: pre-trip preparation with a clearly defined purpose for going; skilled, committed leadership; and a post-trip debriefing session. “MBMS International does this all in a world-class way!” declared Forest Grove’s Pastor Bruce Enns. We are excited to offer all the expertise and resources of MBMS International to the participants of Gathering 2004. For more information and to register, go to Gathering 2004 or call 888-669-6575.

refresh, renew, reach out and receive more than you ever expected!

Gathering 2004 Prayer Corner

Please join us as we pray for the planning of Gathering 2004.

Mennonite Brethren Churches across Canada are asked to unite in “100 Days of Prayer” for Gathering 2004. The goal is to shift the focus from us to God and to pray very simply for the ministry-shaping decisions of the Canadian Conference of MB Churches. Please join us as we pray for the recommendations from the Board of Faith and Life about Healthy Churches:

• The Baptism & Membership summary statement and direction coming out of last year’s study conference.
• Divorce, Remarriage and Pastoral Leadership: an adjustment to our protocol on whether a divorced and remarried pastor can re-enter full-time ministry.
• Amendments to the Spiritual Warfare Statement that will clarify our theology.
• My Pastoral Covenant: a new agreement for pastors and churches.