Closure: Bethel Mennonite Church

For 78 years, this faithful community followed God’s call with joy and dedication. Through baptisms and marriages, the sending of mission workers, vibrant youth outreach, children’s programs and many other ministries, Bethel nurtured a deep legacy of faith and community. Over the decades, members served in at least 42 countries, extending Christ’s love far beyond their local congregation. Bethel officially closed in October of 2025, leaving behind a rich and enduring witness of hope for the future.

Withdrawn Membership: Grace Christian Church

Grace Christian Church, a Chin congregation in Ottawa, joined MCEC as a Provisional Member congregation in 2012. In May 2025, they discerned a withdrawal from MCEC. In their words, “We are deeply grateful for the support, partnership and shared ministry over the past 20 years. Your guidance and collaboration have been an important part of our journey, and we sincerely thank you for all that you’ve contributed to our church and mission.”

Stirling Avenue Mennonite Church - 100 Years

For one hundred years Stirling Avenue Mennonite Church has lived out a bold and generous faith shaped by justice, compassion and deep care for community. From its beginnings in 1924, Stirling quickly became a congregation where shared leadership and service were central. Early commitments to groups like House of Friendship, MCC and community justice initiatives helped form a ministry that understood faith as active love. Over the decades Stirling created programs that continue to embody this calling, including the Clothing Centre, Saturday Meals Together and comforter making for global relief.

Today Stirling’s justice witness remains strong through its HOMES program, its partnership with Raw Carrot and its long journey of learning and reconciliation with Indigenous neighbours. The congregation’s stewardship of five nearby houses reflects a growing commitment to affordable housing, Creation care and honouring the original peoples of this land. As Stirling marks a century of ministry, it continues to seek God’s justice, peace and healing for all.

Wellesley Mennonite Church - 50 Years

For fifty years Wellesley Mennonite Church has witnessed God’s steady provision in the life of the congregation and the wider community. Founded in 1975 to help meet the spiritual needs of Wellesley and the surrounding area, the church has grown into a place where healing and hope are offered in Christ’s name. Rooted in the Anabaptist tradition, the congregation has sought to follow Jesus with generosity, compassion and trust, believing that God supplies what is needed for each season of ministry.

This anniversary weekend in September 2025 was a reminder of that ongoing care. During Sunday worship a tree was planted as a sign of God’s faithfulness, and worshippers placed their prayers and hopes for the future at its base. The image of roots growing deep echoed the church’s calling to remain grounded in God’s love as the congregation continues to live in the fullness of God. Through every chapter God has provided, and God will provide still.