Return to the M.B.Herald Vol. 38, No. 15 Home Page
"We have to know who we are, where we are going, what we believe and why we believe it-and ultimately, we have to share our beliefs with others," said Michael Dick, executive director for the Board of Resource Ministries. "And we need the resources to do that."
Providing those resources is what BRM is all about. During the Board's presentation, Board members highlighted the materials and resources available through Kindred Productions, the publishing house of the MB churches in Canada and the U.S.
Resourcing MBs. Using a video to highlight four product lines, the Board illustrated the value of producing materials created by and for Mennonite Brethren. The materials reflect the Mennonite Brethren Confession of Faith and distinctives and challenge users to a life of discipleship. "We produce resources to preserve our vision and ensure that it continues," Dick said.
The four product lines are inspirational (creative and reflective writing), Bible study and curriculum, church resources (such as songbooks and contemporary worship songs), and historical.
Low German Bible. Marilyn Hudson, manager of Kindred Productions, reported that Kindred is working with others to translate the Bible into Low German, the single language of over 80,000 people in Brazil, Paraguay and Mexico. BRM expects to have the text done in the next two years.
Word Wise. The Board introduced a new adult Bible study curriculum which covers all genres of Scripture (history, law, prophets, gospels, etc.) in five years. The material is published quarterly in 11-to-13-week studies, can be used in small group or Sunday school settings and is available with a leader’s guide.
As with most of BRM's Bible study and curriculum material, Word Wise emphasizes the centrality of Jesus and His teaching. Each year, Word Wise covers the gospel and an MB core value.
"We want to get people into the Word and integrate Scripture with their contemporary situation," said Dave Wiebe, member of the board and executive director for Canada's Board of Christian Education Ministries. "We also want them engaged in dialogue with each other." CA
Return to the M.B.Herald Vol. 38, No. 15 Home Page