God's People NowFace to Face with Mennonite Church Canada by Robert J. Suderman Classification: RELIGION/Christian Church/Mennonites |
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"A unique and inviting window into the identity, life, concerns, and aspirations of a denomination with a rich history and significant presence in Canada. We are invited to listen in on conversations with its members and consider the reflections of a leader of a community of faith seeking to be a faithful witness in twenty-first century Canada." --Bruce J. Clemenger, President of Evangelical Fellowhship of Canada
In 2006 Robert J. Suderman, general secretary of Mennonite Church Canada, visited each local church of his denomination on a "listening tour." Suderman presents what he heard in this book. Relying heavily on direct, unedited quotes from more than 300 hours of face-to-face meetings with the grassroots of the church, Suderman offers a glimpse of the denomination's needs, wants, and concerns.
"A journey that reaches the hearts and souls of congregations. While not minimizing the pain or the challenges they face, this is an uplifting, provocative, poignant, and ultimately hopeful book that re-calls the church to its original mission. Important reading for pastors and for congregations." --Marianne Mellinger, Coordinator of Leadership Formation, Mennonite Church Eastern Canada
About the Author
Robert J. Suderman became general secretary of Mennonite Church Canada in December 2005 after serving as executive secretary of Mennonite Church Canada Witness since 2000. From 1968 to 1984, he taught at schools and colleges in Canada and Bolivia. He was a founding director of CLARA, the Latin American Anabaptist Resource Center in Colombia, and of Mennonite Biblical Seminary of Colombia, where he served from 1989 to 1994. Suderman was born in Winkler, Manitoba.