MCEC Announces Appointment of Jean Claude Nkundwa as Regional Minister for Ottawa and Quebec

MCEC is pleased to announce the appointment of Jean Claude Nkundwa as Regional Minister for Ottawa and Quebec. Jean Claude brings extensive experience as a peacebuilding practitioner and faith-based leader, with more than fifteen years of service in community and church engagement.

“I believe God has called me to serve the Church in a way that builds bridges and fosters reconciliation,” says Jean Claude. “My journey has been shaped by God’s leading, and I see this as an opportunity to walk alongside congregations and leaders as we live out the Gospel together.”

"Jean Claude brings experience, wisdom and passion for the Church. We are confident that his gifts will strengthen and inspire MCEC congregations as we continue growing together as a community of faith."

Jean Claude has worked with Mennonite Central Committee, Tearfund UK, and the Burundi National Council of Churches, where he supported church leaders and advanced reconciliation efforts in diverse contexts. Alongside his global peacebuilding work, he has served as a lay minister and worked as a translator, with a strong commitment to intercultural understanding. Fluent in French, English, Swahili and Kirundi, Jean Claude holds a bachelor’s degree in social work and community development from Hope African University (Burundi), a master’s degree in art of conflict transformation at the Center for Justice and Peacebuilding at Eastern Mennonite University (USA) and has completed additional academic training in theology and biblical studies.

"Jean Claude brings experience, wisdom and passion for the Church,” says Anthony Siegrist, Executive Minister. “His proven leadership in peacebuilding, his theological grounding, and his heart for intercultural ministry uniquely position him to serve and support congregations in Quebec and the Ottawa region. We are confident that his gifts will strengthen and inspire MCEC congregations as we continue growing together as a community of faith.”

Jean Claude joins Regional Ministers Cathrin van Sintern-Dick and Yoel Masyawong on MCEC’s Congregational Ministries Team, which is dedicated to energizing congregations, encouraging leaders, and embodying God’s ministry of reconciliation. This relational role supports pastors and congregational leaders, offering support in church leadership, resourcing, intercultural competency and the development of new congregations.

Jean Claude and his family attend Ottawa Mennonite Church, where he serves as a deacon on their leadership team. You can reach Jean Claude at jcnkundwa@mcec.ca.