Stories about music, the environment, justice, violence, the Mennonite-Anabaptist community, and sexuality got our readers’ attention this past year. Here’s a glimpse at what was popular among our online readers:
10. Old hymns get new arrangements Ottawa musician Carla Klassen undertook a year-long endeavour to write new arrangements weekly for old hymns.
9. Old Order Mennonite community in turmoil This June 2013 story reported on the removal of children from an unnamed community in Manitoba, because of alleged physical abuse by some of the adults. Several other stories about the case appeared in print and online, including this one in 2014.
8. It's time to divest Canadian Mennonite editor/publisher Dick Benner invited readers to consider decreasing their consumption of fossil fuels and their investment in the fossil-fuel industry, in this April 28 editorial.
7. Broadcaster brings his faith to the airwaves This story profiles Elmer Hildebrand, chief executive office of Golden West Broadcasting Ltd., the largest independent radio broadcaster in Canada.
6. Unlearning the Bible to welcome homosexuals Writer Gerhard Neufeld offered his viewpoint that incorrect interpretation of the Bible is often involved in the discussion about sexual orientation.
5. MWC Assembly to meet July 21-26, 2015 This web-exclusive story gave the basic information about PA 2015, the upcoming assembly of Mennonites and related Anabaptist groups from around the world. It prompted over 100 “likes” and online expressions of interest from international commenters.
4. Jesus taught equality, regardless of sexual identity In a feature article, retired professor Norman Kraus explored Matthew 19:4-5 as it relates to the church’s debate about same-sex marriage.
3. MC Saskatchewan adopts safe church policy A controversial amendment about discrimination triggered debate at the annual delegate sessions of Mennonite Church Saskatchewan.
2. The attack Blogger Casandra Bangay told how she was attacked on a Colombian street, while on assignment with Christian Peacemaker Teams. In a follow-up post she explored the meaning of the attack.
1. A letter from the mother of a gay son Speaking from personal experience, Laurie Wiens wrote, “People of a different sexual orientation can have as much to offer the church as any other church member. Unfortunately, many have experienced rejection and have felt unwelcome if they are open about their sexual identity.” This web-exclusive story had close to 3,000 views and generated online comments and many “likes” and “shares” in social media.
Other popular items included an editorial about the millennials, a blog post from February 2013, a feature story on Israel/Palestine, and a feature on a Mennonite comedian. The letters from the November 24, 2014 issue also got readers’ attention.
—Posted Dec. 31, 2014
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