Evangelical Mennonite Mission Conference

The Evangelical Mennonite Mission Conference (EMMC) is a nonprofit organization within the Mennonite tradition, emphasizing evangelical values and global missionary work. It was formed in 1959 from the Rudnerweider Mennonite Church, which emerged during a revival in Manitoba that highlighted personal conversion, evangelism, and missions[2].

History

The EMMC has its roots in a revival movement that began in the 1930s among the Sommerfelder Mennonite Church in Manitoba. This revival led to the formation of the Rudnerweider Mennonite Church in 1937, which later became the foundation for the EMMC[2].

Structure and Membership

As of recent data, the EMMC comprises 23 congregations across Canada, primarily in Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, and Saskatchewan, along with international congregations in Belize and Mexico. The conference also extends to Bolivia[3]. It operates as a diverse family of churches, both urban and rural, each with unique ministries and responsibilities[3].

Mission and Values

The EMMC's primary mission is to equip and encourage its member churches for effective ministry. It is focused on empowering its congregations to participate actively in the work of God globally. The conference emphasizes the importance of discipleship, as outlined in the Bible, particularly in Matthew 28:18-20, where Jesus commands his followers to make disciples of all nations[3].

Withdrawal from Mennonite Central Committee Canada

In 2024, the EMMC made the decision to withdraw as an official supporting member of Mennonite Central Committee Canada (MCC Canada) due to differences in policies regarding marriage. This decision was based on MCC Canada's shift away from requiring staff to be celibate outside of heterosexual marriage, which conflicted with the EMMC's Confession of Faith[5].

Governance and Participation

Prior to its withdrawal, the EMMC participated in MCC Canada's governance and activities. However, due to the aforementioned policy differences, it no longer sends representatives to MCC Canada's board or provincial organizations in Canada[5].