Vineland

A moment from yesterday

August 24, 2016 | Viewpoints | Volume 20 Issue 17
Conrad Stoesz / Centre for Mennonite Brethren Studies | with Laureen Harder-Gissing / Mennonite Archives of Ontario

When Mennonites came to Ontario and western Canada in the 1920s, they were helped by the “Swiss” Mennonites, such as those from The First Mennonite Church in Vineland, Ont. The poor farming conditions and low commodity prices of the 1930s made the financial situation very difficult. In these circumstances, Mennonite Brethren and Mennonites worshipped together in communities such as Vineland. Within a few years, after they were more established and had more resources, Mennonite and Mennonite Brethren decided to separate and build their own churches. In the 1980s, The First Mennonite was struggling and asked Vineland United Mennonite Church (pictured) to send over some members. This kick-started life for The First Mennonite and it became a congregation that attracted Swiss, Mennonite Brethren, Mennonite and new Mennonite members. Good things happen when we work together. (https://archives.mhsc.ca/mennonite-church-vineland-on)

Share this page: Twitter Instagram

Add new comment

Canadian Mennonite invites comments and encourages constructive discussion about our content. Actual full names (first and last) are required. Comments are moderated and may be edited. They will not appear online until approved and will be posted during business hours. Some comments may be reproduced in print.