Steinbach Mennonite Church

Steinbach Mennonite Church is a Canadian Anabaptist congregation located in Steinbach, Manitoba. It is a registered nonprofit organization with the business registration number 108013590RR0001. The church is committed to faithfully following Christ through worship, discipleship, community building, and outreach.

History

The congregation began holding services on July 17, 1938, under the leadership of Rev. Isaac Warkentin, who is recognized as the founding leader of the group. The church was formally organized in 1939. Steinbach Mennonite Church originated from Mennonite immigrants from Russia who had settled in the Steinbach area in the 1920s and initially worshiped in existing congregations. Around 1936, a group formed as part of the Schönwieser Gemeinde (Schoenwiese Mennonite church), but differences arose between members favoring continued affiliation with the Schoenwiese and those desiring autonomy.

In 1942, Steinbach Mennonite Church was accepted into the General Conference of Mennonites, marking its formal independence. The name “Steinbach Mennonite” began to be used that year, reflecting its distinct identity following separation from the Schoenwieser group. A transitional period occurred when some members who supported Schoenwiese locked the new church doors, disputing its independence. The church transitioned from German to English as the primary language of worship during the 1960s[2][3].

Beliefs and Mission

Steinbach Mennonite Church identifies as an Anabaptist community where worship and work are integrated expressions of faith. The congregation emphasizes worship, prayer, meditation, discernment, witness, and service as essential components of its gathered life. The church aims to seek God's will collectively and encourages members towards deeper discipleship throughout their lives.

The church’s mission statement is: “Steinbach Mennonite Church is striving to faithfully follow Christ in worship and service by making disciples, building community and reaching out to the world.” This mission guides their internal community life and external outreach efforts[1][2].

Activities and Outreach

Steinbach Mennonite Church supports a broad network of missionaries through contributions to Mennonite Church Manitoba and Mennonite Church Canada. The congregation invites its members to uphold these missionaries in prayer and financial support. Updates on missionary work are regularly shared within the church community.

The church offers various worship services and programs designed to foster spiritual growth, community connection, and service-oriented faith. Historically, the church has maintained a focus on faithful discipleship and outreach consistent with Mennonite evangelical Anabaptist traditions[2].

Significance

The Steinbach Mennonite Church has played a vital role as a spiritual center for Mennonite immigrants and their descendants in Steinbach, Manitoba. Its establishment reflects the broader Mennonite migration and settlement patterns in Canada, and the congregation continues to contribute to the religious and cultural heritage of the region.

This article summarizes the history, beliefs, mission, and community role of Steinbach Mennonite Church based on public sources and records.