Posts by VMMissions Staff
Mennonite Women gather to consider purpose, discipleship
When the new officers of Mennonite Women of Virginia met for the first time, we began by considering our constitution. We found elements that may need revision. However, we were encouraged to find that the purpose of Mennonite Women of Virginia has not changed. Briefly stated, it is to support each other as we “find,…
Read MoreThree baptized in Kemishtaj, Albania
The Adriatic Sea wind whipped our faces but the bright sun beamed upon the group of believers from the Lajmetaret e Jesus Krishtit (Heralds of Jesus Christ) church of Kemishtaj, Albania, gathered for the baptism of Lazi, Ilir, and Eva. A deserted beach-side food stand sheltered us from the wind as Allen Umble, VMM worker…
Read MoreBlood revenge claims life of Albanian pastor
On October 8, Pastor Dritan (Tani) Prroj died in a busy plaza in the center of Shkoder. Similar to Jesus, he was executed in his early 30s for the sins of others. His crimes? Belonging to the wrong clan, refusing to stay imprisoned in his own home, continuing his public ministry although knowing he was…
Read MoreShining the light in Hickory
Nearly 60 years ago, evangelists from Franconia Mennonite Conference brought the light to Hickory, North Carolina. On Sunday, November 7, the Mennonite churches that grew out of that evangelistic trip celebrated their history and Virginia Conference’s 175th Anniversary. The day consisted of a homecoming celebration for Mt. View Mennonite Church—current members, past members, and family…
Read MoreOur core values
Core values are those values we hold dear. They represent the orienting center of our lives, the priorities by which we live. They are usually expressed by how we live our lives and what occupies our attention in terms of time and money. Sometimes core values are also expressed by our words. When our core…
Read MoreThe Gospel in cultural context
With eyes riveted in wonder at the dancers and their gentle gyrations, Wiang’s heart leapt in longing. Who are these people who can dance with such freedom and joy? Did she care who they were? Not really. She simply sensed intuitively that she belonged among them. Wiang was attending a gathering of followers of Jesus. …
Read MoreBaptism as remembering
I attended a baptismal service again recently. Four members of the Daniel family went “under the water” as the pastor put it. Father, mother, and two sons all gave verbal witness to their faith in Jesus Christ and accepted the sacrament and sign of baptism in the presence of God and a company of people.…
Read MoreA half-serious lament
With a bit of sadness this summer, I witnessed the final decisions associated with dissolving Ohio District of Virginia Mennonite Conference. It made sense since the district had essentially become an “empty set” as Conference Minister Owen Burkholder put it. Chestnut Ridge, the last remaining congregation, had transferred amicably to Ohio Conference earlier. Still, since…
Read MoreFirst international tranSenders finish well
“We’re here to honor Dino & Mara for their service among us this year.” With these words, Centro Koinonia’s usual mid-week meeting suddenly burst into a surprise farewell party! After listing their many accomplishments, we gave them a hearty round of applause, words of appreciation, incomparable party delicacies, plus many embraces and kisses, Italian-style! Here’s…
Read MoreVision becomes reality for Albanian Christian School
Albanian Christian School (ACS), a vision of Klementina and Dini Shahini and an initiative supported by Virginia Mennonite Missions and Eastern Mennonite Missions, will open its doors in Lezhe, Albania in September 2011. A Vision Support Team is providing oversight to the school. Klementina Shahini, an Albanian and American educator, will serve as executive director…
Read MoreEducating for faith and life in the world
On Sunday evening October 10, Park View Mennonite Church hosted a community celebration of the many educational endeavors that have been associated with the Virginia Mennonite Conference. It was one of the events in a year-long series commemorating the 175th anniversary of Virginia Mennonite Conference. Park View Mennonite Church was chosen since it had its…
Read MoreOn the death of two bishops
By Owen Burkholder Lloyd S. Horst died October 7, 2010 at the age of 97. Truman H. Brunk, Jr. died October 8, 2010 at the age of 79. At both funerals, I heard the descriptor “Encourager.” And, “gentle.” Each of these men was ordained in Virginia Mennonite Conference. Lloyd served as pastor and ordained bishop…
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