New MB Ministry Centre opened

Volunteers and staff worked hard to make the grand opening enjoyable for all who attended.

Friday, April 15 was a momentous afternoon for Canadian MB Conference staff. It was the official ribbon-cutting and open house of the new MB Ministry Centre at 1310 Taylor Ave. About 140 people from Winnipeg and the surrounding area, including one couple visiting from Ontario, were on hand for the occasion.

Greetings by conference and government officials put the project into perspective. Canadian Conference moderator Willy Reimer stated that the site was chosen after much consideration by the Executive Board, and Manitoba Conference moderator Don Petker stated he was delighted that Manitoba Conference staff could be part of this new venture also. Anita Neville, MP, in whose riding the building is situated, represented the federal government, while Patrice Minielly, representing MLA Dianne McGifford, reminded listeners that it was the formation of Canadian Mennonite University, and the subsequent enlarging of Mennonite Brethren Collegiate Institute campus, that spawned this new building in another part of the city. Because the announcement of the plans for the new human rights museum in Winnipeg had been made earlier that day, the importance of freedom of religion to Mennonites and their work for peace was mentioned by a number of the dignitaries.

Mary Reimer, pastor of FaithWorks in Winnipeg, offers a prayer of blessing for the new facility.

Sven Eriksson, denominational minister for Mennonite Church Canada, with greetings and a blessing. Photo: Mary Unruh

David Wiebe, Canadian Conference executive director.

Sven Eriksson, denominational minister for Mennonite Church Canada, brought greetings and a blessing. “O Canada” was sung (including a second stanza which emphasized faith in God) to portray gratitude for a country in which such a building was possible. A prayer of dedication by Mary Reimer, pastor of FaithWorks, the MB church in the area, was followed by the official ribbon cutting by Willy Reimer, who opened the building “to the glory of God.” A tour of the new facilities followed.

The 20,000 square foot office building was built at a cost of $2,000,000, while the Christian Press building on the same site cost $500,000. It was financed by the Stewardship fund as a long-term investment. The building will house 30 Canadian Conference, 5 Manitoba Conference and 2 MBMSI staff.

—Susan Brandt

Canadian Conference staff welcome guests to a dessert reception following the program.

Special guests and staff look on as Willy Reimer (2nd from right), Canadian Conference moderator, cuts the ribbon to mark the official opening of the new building.