Elmwood MB Church celebrates 50 years

Songs of praise filled the sanctuary of Elmwood MB Church as choir and congregation joined to celebrate and reflect on God’s goodness over the 50 years they have been located in the Elmwood community of Winnipeg. The banner overhead proclaimed – “Remember what the Lord has done . . . the best is yet to come!”

Youth sing at Elmwood MB Church celebration

Pastor Keith Poysti challenged the church to ignore the voices of our culture that say that at 50 our best years are behind us. Listen instead to God’s Word, he said; “Even in old age they will still produce fruit, they will remain vital and green” (Psalm 92).

A mosaic of songs, words and pictures looked back on what God has done at Elmwood and acknowledged what He is doing and will do.

Jake Klassen spoke of a rich heritage of choral singing, orchestras and musicians who have shared their gifts and led in worship. Elmwood’s worship has seen significant changes during this time and these changes were obvious during the service. Klassen challenged the congregation to maintain what is good from the past and blend it with new and fresh ways of worshiping God.

Herta Janzen recalled how Elmwood and the MB Bible College became next-door neighbours in 1954 when the North End MB Church gave birth to Elmwood. MBBC faculty willingly shared their gifts of teaching, preaching, and music with the congregation, and encouraged students to serve as well. Tribute was given to the congregations’ pastors, “God’s gift to us.”

Margaret Harder observed how Elmwood continues in the tradition of the North End MB Church in ministering to immigrants and supporting foreign and home missions. She highlighted stories of specific mission workers as representative of Elmwood’s efforts to “make disciples of all nations.”

Jim and Karen Warner gave honour to God for bringing together a unique blend of individuals to form Elmwood Church. There is a wide variety of languages, cultures and backgrounds present in the congregation.

The service ended with a volunteer choir singing the “Hallelujah Chorus.” While enjoying a lunch as varied as the ethnic, cultural and age mix of the congregation, people viewed a PowerPoint presentation of Elmwood’s community life.

The celebration of 50 years in Elmwood affirmed God’s faithfulness in the past and His promises to guide into the future.

—Maria Funk