Point Grey Inter-Mennonite Fellowship, Interior Source: MCBC

In 1986 a group of Mennonites in Vancouver established the Pacific Centre for Discipleship Association. Their initial goal was to convert a former convent for use as a student residence for Mennonite students. This became known as the Menno Simons Centre. Out of this endeavour grew the desire to start Point Grey Fellowship at around the same time. The congregation was formally organized in 1987, and joined the British Columbia Conference of the Mennonite Brethren (MB) Churches. Founding members were John and Erna Friesen, Henry and Hilda Hildebrand, and Ed and Hedy Hintz. In 1992 the congregation joined Mennonite Church British Columbia and soon after changed its name to Point Grey Inter-Mennonite Fellowship. It is the only dually affiliated Mennonite congregation in British Columbia.

The congregation meets in the chapel of the Menno Simons Centre. For most of its history the congregation has not had a paid pastoral staff, but has instead relied on volunteer worship coordinators and a pastoral care committee. The worship style is somewhat traditional while encouraging periods of discussion. Worship time includes hymn singing, Bible readings, responsive readings, children's features, children's church, prayers, teachings, and the opportunity to share prayer concerns and praise items. The congregation also has a tradition of encouraging open dialogue during time set aside for responses to the message. The congregation's proximity to the University of British Columbia and Regent College allows for a unique ministry to students, including those living in the student residence.

During the years 1965-68 another Point Grey Mennonite Fellowship existed, most of whom were university students from Mennonite Brethren (MB) churches in Vancouver. This group had loose affiliation with the MB Conference but declined membership. In 1967 the group requested that any responsibility to the Mennonite Brethren conference be considered to be nonexistent. They met for a time in the YMCA. They were also known as the West End Mennonite Brethren Fellowship.

Bibliography

Additional Information

Address: 4000 W. 11th Ave., Vancouver, BC V6R 2L3

Phone: 604-228-8911

Web site: www.pgimf.org

Denominational Affiliations:

British Columbia Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches (1987-present)

Mennonite Church British Columbia (1992-present)

Canadian Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches (1987-present)

Mennonite Church Canada (1992-present)

 Point Grey Inter-Mennonite Fellowship Membership

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