A Christian community rooted in the Anabaptist-Mennonite tradition.
This is us...
First Mennonite Church is rooted in the Anabaptist-Mennonite tradition. We are called as a community of faith to worship God, proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ, engage in Christian fellowship, and reach out in service to the world. Jesus is at the centre of our faith, community is at the centre of our life, and peace, nonviolence, and reconciliation are at the centre of our faith lived out.
Our Vision
We share the vision statement of Mennonite Church Canada:
God calls us
to be followers of Jesus Christ
and, by the power of the Holy Spirit,
to grow as communities
of grace, joy and peace,
so that God's healing and hope
flow through us to the world.
Our Mission
Our mission is to:
1. provide the means for the spiritual growth of members, non-members, and their families by preaching and teaching the Word of God;
2. provide fellowship for members, non-members and their families;
3. proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the community;
4. participate in the extension of the Church of Jesus Christ throughout the world by supporting and entering into missionary and relief endeavours at home and abroad.
Who We are
Although we come from a wide variety of backgrounds, with a range of beliefs and theological perspectives, our faith is rooted in the Anabaptist vision of 16th century Europe inspired by a fresh interpretation of the New Testament Gospel that holds the promise of salvation for all who choose to follow Jesus
Our Approach to Confessions of Faith
While it is important to summarize and affirm key beliefs, we recognize that no one statement can include all that is important to our church and its participants. Confessions connect us to the wider church by identifying some of the beliefs and understandings that shape us. Faith statements allow us to celebrate our unity with each other while recognizing it is not necessary nor desirable that everyone agree on every point; and provide general guidelines for discussion, challenge, and mutual growth.
Our History
The year 1959 marks the official organization of First Mennonite Church, with the 50th anniversary of this event celebrated on April 18th and 19th, 2009, but the congregation's roots extend another ten years through a decade of rapid and controversial transition for what had been primarily an agrarian people. The church was the product of the post-war migration of Mennonites to the cities - typically to attend university, but also to work - in a time of challenge to a centuries-old rural heritage.
Congregational Life and Church Structure
Ministry Opportunities abound within the congregation. All our programs are organized and run by volunteers.
To explore possible avenues of service contact the church office.
Our
Team
What to Expect
Sunday Morning
Parking at First Mennonite
There are two handicap accessible parking spots opposite the front door. Also in this parking area are spaces reserved for Seniors. The spaces in the parking area next to the sidewalk are reserved for Visitors, Seniors, and parents with young children.
In the Foyer
When you enter the front door our greeters will welcome you to First Mennonite Church. They will invite you to make a name tag and sign our guest book. The order of service is available by QR code (foyer white board and sanctuary doors) or from the ushers at the doors to the sanctuary. A children's bulletin is available on the foyer table with activities that relate to the morning scripture passages.
In the Sanctuary
Our ushers will help you find a seat if you so desire. The rear pews are available for families with small children; however, you may sit wherever you feel comfortable. A pianist or ensemble will be playing the prelude. We will pause for a welcome to all (including our Zoom attendees) followed by a final prelude piece to prepare us for worship.
The Worship Service
While our worship service does not have a set order, certain elements are usually present. There will be a time of welcome, usually followed by a Call to Worship - spoken or sung. We generally stand when we sing, although you may sit if that is more comfortable. There will be scripture passages read, selections from our adult choir, children's choir, or other ensemble, hymns and often a time of confession and words of assurance. We always have a time for the children to come forward for a story or lesson. Our pastor or a lay person from our congregation will give the message. There will be sharing of our Joys and Concerns, a Pastoral Prayer, offertory prayer, and highlights of various announcements. Our offering plates are available at the back of the sanctuary (envelopes are available for cash donations). At the end of the service we usually remain seated while the pianist plays a postlude and our worship leader and speaker proceed to the sanctuary doors, ready to greet worshipers.
After Worship
In summer months there is fellowship over coffee following the worship service. During the rest of the year, potluck lunches are scheduled periodically for Deacon Groups, special interest groups or the whole congregation.
Handicap Accessibility
Our facility is handicap accessible with the main floor at ground level and a lift to the lower level.
Scent Free
We are a congregation that endeavours to be scent free. A number of our members are quite sensitive to perfumes, aftershaves, and strongly scented hair products. We ask that you refrain from using these products when you join us for worship.
Baby Room
A baby room is located on the right side of the foyer.
Nursery (for toddlers and their parents)
A nursery is located in the lower level in room B24 if your toddler or preschooler needs to expend some energy. There is a speaker to allow you to follow the service.
Rental Information
Sanctuary
Fellowship Hall
Kitchen
Variety of Meeting Rooms (both small and large)
The Facility Coordinator has final approval on all rentals. Call the church office for more information.