They supported each other much like a family. This group grew and became more formally organized. It received assistance from the larger Mennonite network and was initially served by part-time ministers. Early gatherings were held in homes and schools. Since that time many people have come and gone, each sharing in the joy and struggle of following Jesus here in Ottawa. In the fall of a piece of land was purchased on the outskirts of the city and five years later a building was put up.
Things have changed since then. We have needed to expand the building several times since then and it is now surrounded by a bustling neighbourhood. However, the basic instincts of being a supportive community, gathering regularly for worship and living a practical faith engaged with the world remain the same.
Not sure what a Mennonite is? Wondering if we have hitching posts out back or if we all share the same last name? This short video by 3rd Way Media will answer some common questions. Our congregation is a member of Mennonite Church Canada , a unifying body of Mennonite congregations across the country. It contains roughly 31, members and congregations that are organized in five area churches.
These connections link us to other Anabaptist Christians and provide us with useful resources and accountability. Ottawa Mennonite Church is blessed to have several paid staff persons who maintain our building, help us communicate with each other and provide pastoral leadership.
Andy Brubacher Kaethler β Lead Pastor. Andy is originally from Kitchener-Waterloo, ON. He strives to empower individuals and congregations to grow closer to God and share their gifts and resources with others in their neighbourhoods, in the Ottawa region, and throughout the world. Andy enjoys biking, camping, canoeing, reading philosophy, theology, and medieval murder mysteries , gardening, and tinkering in his workshop.
