As we reflect on the past year of ministry, MCC is grateful to walk hand-in-hand with the Mennonite Brethren church to share God’s love and compassion for all in the name of Christ. Despite the challenges of a global pandemic, changing weather patterns and millions of people forced to flee, our hope and faith rests solidly in Jesus. MCC is committed to “abiding in the vine” so we can continue to bear fruit. Without Christ, we can do nothing.

Thanks to your generous support, MCC was able to work with local partners to impact the lives of thousands – and to offer a Jesus-centred vision of peace and reconciliation to communities around the world.

Relief

Following the Russian military invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, MCC partners have been responding by providing emergency assistance to the most vulnerable, including the elderly and thoseliving with disabilities. Maxym and Anya Oliferovski are two of those partners. They normally spend their days leading New Hope Centre, an MCC partner organization in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, focusing on families in crisis. They are also Mennonite Brethren church planters. Since late February, as of this publication, they have turned to distributing emergency supplies, such as food, blankets and mattresses. They are also helping people evacuate to safer locations. MCC’s response to this conflict will continue as we scale up existing work and plan longer-term projects.

Development

Sticky stinky? Farmers in sub-Saharan Africa use a unique agricultural approach, mixing their crops with a smelly grass to drive away pests. (The grass also helps preserve moisture, helping address the effects

of climate change.) The farmers then plant a sticky grass around the perimeter of their fields to trap pests escaping the smell. Fewer pests equal more nutritious food for families. And an added benefit? Since the insects are trapped before they can migrate to neighbours’ fields, peace grows in the community. Another innovative approach by MCC partners!

Peace

We know that peace means many things. For Zebron Mwale in Zambia, it means forgiveness. After landing in prison for growing cannabis, Zebron joined an MCC peace club offered there. “I quickly learned about the need to break the chain of revenge,” says Zebron, who offered forgiveness to the neighbour who had turned him in.

Here in Canada, peace can mean new beginnings. MCC continues to support newcomers through our migration and resettlement program, including many Afghan refugees. We’re inviting congregations to prayerfully consider sponsoring an Afghan refugee this coming year.

Thank you for your ongoing generosity! None of this could happen without your gifts of prayer, service and financial support. Thanks be to God.

In Christ’s peace,

– RICK COBER BAUMAN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MCC CANADA

I am the vine, and you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing.

— John 15:4–5