GENERAL CONFERENCE -- An overview

In anticipation of this convention, conference leaders had all but assumed the dissolution of the binational structure. But facing the forces of radical change eyeball to eyeball, delegates sounded a retreat to rethink strategy.

Actually, the leaders themselves blinked first. Even before floor discussion ensued, the Executive Council amended the preamble of their recommendation to insert the word "possible" into the critical phrase, "in anticipation of the dissolution of the General Conference "

Though the ensuing discussion was lively and thorough, the outcome was all but determined when the amendment was accepted. The only real question was how to rethink the strategy. Some wanted to take alternative action at Waterloo, fearful that a review process could drag out indefinitely or be hijacked by vested interests. Most felt too much was at stake in regard to the ongoing ministries of the denomination to risk impulsive action.

In the end, delegates approved a plan to establish a task force of five people with the mandate to make a "no holds barred" look at all layers of existing conference structures district/provincial, national and binational. Within two years, having gathered and evaluated input from the grass roots and the myriad stems and branches that grow from them the task force will make their recommendation to the Executive Council of the conference. When the General Conference convenes again in 1999, this time in Kansas, delegates will have another opportunity to determine a final outcome.

Interplaying with the dissolution issue at this convention were two prominent subthemes: The health and effectiveness of General Conference ministries, and the growing internationalization of the Mennonite Brethren Church.

During the weekend, delegates listened to effective presentations from MB Biblical Seminary, MB Missions/Services, the Board of Faith and Life and the Board of Resource Ministries. In response, several delegates emphasized that restructuring must not undermine the work of these entities as they engage, respectively, in leadership training, global evangelization, theological unity and the production of discipleship materials.

"We should not tear down our existing house until we know that the new house will take care of our needs," said one delegate.

Many delegates voiced the conviction that a new structure must also make room for the 15 other national Mennonite Brethren conferences. A call for increasing international cooperation and partnership came through loud and clear at this convention.

But how that would affect restructuring wasn't so apparent. Some argued that a binational North American conference, with its abundant material and educational resources, too easily dominates the worldwide family. Others argued that while internationalization was important and paternalism should be avoided, a binational structure was still the best arrangement for meeting the shared needs of the churches within Canada and the United States .

The global dimension came through in a variety of ways, not the least of which was the effective multi-media presentation of MBM/S. The report began with a parade of flags representing the 39 countries in which Mennonite Brethren work or have national churches. Another highlight was a video-taped song from Esengo, the Congolese choir which recently completed a popular North American tour. Jeanine Janzen, who served Esengo as their cultural interpreter, was on hand to lead the audience in the singing and accompanying motions. Later, an offering, collected in lively Congo style, netted $5,400 (Canadian) and $1,200 (US) for MBM/S.

Several international guests were on hand as well, including Harry Janzen, executive secretary of the Brazil MB Conference, and Miguel Forero, a Colombian leader who will become MBM/S regional secretary for Latin America.

Nicolai Dueckman, an elder over 53 Mennonite Brethren congregations in the Omsk, Siberia, area of Russia, received the warmest reception of all. Twice the delegation rose to its feet with applause as Dueckman, speaking through an interpreter, described the perseverance of Mennonite churches in the former Soviet Union. The elderly Dueckman had himself served several years in prison, including forced labour in the coal mines of Siberia, for his religious beliefs.

Dueckman's presence energized the unanimous approval of a resolution calling on Canadian and US political leaders to persuade Russian President Boris Yeltsin from signing new legislation that would restrict religious freedom in that country. The resolution was to be forwarded to government leaders in the US and Canada as well as local media.

But Waterloo '97 was more than a forum for issues and guests, as significant as they were. In response to criticism two years ago that conventions were dominated by business, planners designated more time for spiritual nurture. Before any deliberations were begun, the delegation participated in an unprecedented "prayer concert" an opening session of worship, singing and prayer along the ACTS (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) model.

Prayer opportunities emerged throughout the convention. Significant decisions were preceded with prayer, usually in "huddles" or "triplets." One spontaneously organized afternoon workshop option was devoted to prayer as well.

Unlike some conventions in the recent past, the times of worship and singing moved the delegation toward unity. Led by Ramsey Unruh of the Willow Park Church in Kelowna, B.C., the convention worship team seamlessly incorporated new and traditional music in an upbeat style.

After two strong keynote messages, by Elmer Martens and Ed Boschman, delegates were given opportunities to express repentance and a desire for renewal. In each case, people were moved to respond.

Mixed with the seriousness were many moments of humour, a tone established and maintained by the smooth, talk-show style of moderator Ed Boschman. With the addition of several "Top Ten" lists, Dan Unrau's "Tante Nuht" reading, and a convention-closing drama and music program, most delegates left Waterloo encouraged and feeling good about the General Conference.

"This was the best convention we've had for some time," said one long-time attender.

Around the edges, though, were several reminders that some serious business still remains:

 Convention attendance continued its decline only 341 delegates registered for Waterloo '97, though guests, children and youth raised the total count to 456. Two years ago, 404 delegates and 94 adult guests attended.

 Several persons expressed disappointment that the convention had not attracted more younger participants, especially when attempts had been made to accommodate their interests. "Where are all those people who wanted change?" asked one delegate.

Though alerted from the podium, delegates chose to not address the financial needs of the Conference. The General Conference ended its biennium with a cash deficit of $69,276 even though the boards underspent their budgets. The Canadian and US conferences also reported deficits this fiscal year, in part because of funding commitments to General Conference ministries.

These will be among the factors thrown into the mix as members of the newly founded task force, as yet unnamed, begin their mammoth assignment of considering the future of Mennonite Brethren conference structures in North America. And all Napoleon wanted to do was conquer the world.-Don Ratzlaff

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