Canadian MB Conference news

Excitement in Quebec, Executive Board meets, Stewardship Ministries shift.

There’s excitement at the École de théologie évangélique de Montréal (ETEM) these days. In July, the school will move to its new building close to the University of Montreal, where it is accredited. ETEM will occupy the top floor of the three-storey site and the other floors will be leased to businesses.

“Never, in my wildest dreams,” writes president Éric Wingender, “did I imagine we would be moving to such an interesting spot.” Part of ETEM’s vision is to assist Christian university groups, as they cannot meet on campus, as well as to become a centre for the Quebec Christian community. The move positions them to do that.

Of 69 students studying at ETEM this year, 11 came from Quebec MB churches. The participation of Quebec churches is also being shown by strong financial support – $25,000 (no small feat for 500 members). Write Éric Wingender for more information or to get involved.

View of ETEM building near the University of Montreal.

At the Executive Board’s quarterly meeting, held in Winnipeg April 21–22, executive director David Wiebe submitted the strategic plan for the Canadian MB Conference’s next five years. It includes “building a multiplication movement,” as well as a commitment to two-way communication with churches. An overview will be presented at Gathering 2006.

The board reviewed and affirmed Wiebe’s tenure to 2008. It looked forward to Gathering 2006 by approving the budget that will be presented. The board also tested a consensus-building tool, using coloured response cards, to be introduced at Gathering, and approved a plan to move from biannual conventions to an annual general meeting. The AGM in the year after Gathering will be held in conjunction with the next study conference, hosted by the Board of Faith and Life, slated for October 2007.

The retirement of lawyer Alf Huebert as director of Stewardship Ministries has been a catalyst for Stewardship Ministries to evaluate its estate planning service. At one time, will preparation service was an important bridge to churches. Current needs call for a broader educational and assistance program for churches and individuals that includes the areas of lifestyle, generosity, money management, controlling debt, and more. The conference is no longer drafting will documents for people, but is increasing attention to these other areas of stewardship education.