Ottawa Mennonite Church

The Ottawa Mennonite Church is a Canadian nonprofit religious organization established to serve Mennonite professionals and families residing in Ottawa, Ontario. Officially founded in 1959, the church emerged from informal gatherings of Mennonite families who lived and worked in the nation's capital, many of whom were employed in government offices.

History

Mennonites first arrived in Ottawa in the 1930s and 1940s, primarily working in translation and other federal government positions. Despite their presence, these early settlers did not initially form a permanent congregation. The Wiens family, who settled in Ottawa in 1938, and the Krause family, arriving in the 1950s, became instrumental in organizing a formal church community. In October 1959, Eldon and Hilde Krause invited Mennonite friends to a home dedication event that led to the establishment of regular worship meetings. These gatherings began as biweekly Sunday afternoon meetings in various homes, with support from the Conference of United Mennonite Churches in Ontario, which provided speakers and singing groups.

In 1960, the congregation purchased a two-acre plot of land for their church building. While the first church building was not erected until 1965, the congregation met in homes and public schools during this interim period. The congregation formally organized on May 5, 1963, initially known as the Ottawa Mennonite Fellowship. Over the years, the church expanded its facilities with major building additions in 1985 and 2002.

Development and Membership

The Ottawa Mennonite Church grew steadily in membership: starting from 28 members in 1965, increasing to 96 in 1975, and reaching 181 members by 2001. William Dick is recognized as the founding leader of the group. The congregation has been affiliated with various Mennonite bodies over time, including the Conference of United Mennonite Churches in Ontario, Mennonite Church Canada, and Mennonite Church Eastern Canada.

Mission and Community

The church began as a support network for Mennonite professionals in Ottawa, fostering community and shared worship. Over time, it has adapted to the needs of its members while maintaining its commitment to the Mennonite faith and values. The congregation's activities include regular worship services, community support, and religious education, reflecting Mennonite principles of peace, service, and fellowship.

Archives and Records

The Ottawa Mennonite Church has contributed archival records to the Mennonite Archives of Ontario, preserving its history and role within the Ottawa community. These archives include textual records dating from 1967 to 1988, documenting the church's early decades, leadership, and programs.

This article summarizes the history, development, and community role of the Ottawa Mennonite Church, a significant Mennonite congregation in Canada’s capital city since the late 1950s[1][2][3][4].