Category Archives: WDC-Stories

WDC’s four commissions provide leadership and resources to carry out the priorities and ministries of the conference.  Each issue of the Garden in 2019 will feature a glimpse of one commission’s work. Ministerial Leadership Commission The Western District Conference Ministerial Leadership … Continue reading →

First in a series featuring congregations in WDC Begun in 1875 by immigrants from the Molotschna Colony in Russia, Hoffnungsau Mennonite Church is located in a rural cross-section between Buhler, Inman and Moundridge, KS. “Hoffnungsau” means “View of Hope.” The … Continue reading →

by Melissa Landis Junior high students from around Kansas came together for Know Jesus 2019 on February 9 and 10 at Hesston College. For 24 hours, youth explored their Anabaptist heritage and what it means to follow Jesus today. The … Continue reading →

The Western District Conference Resource Library started in 1936 with three bookshelves and mostly German-language materials.  We now have over 12,500 books, DVDs, and other materials (have you seen the Bible board games?) available for checkout in two locations. You … Continue reading →

“How do I love thee? Let me count the ways… “  These words from a famous love poem by Elizabeth Barrett Browning come to mind as I think about Western District Conference in this season of giving and gratitude!  Let … Continue reading →

“Can I be baptized here?” a newcomer asked on visiting Beatrice (NE) Mennonite Church (BMC) for the first time.  Her question was an act of wondering as she imagined herself  becoming part of this faith community.  Pastor Tim Amor has … Continue reading →

A retreat in Dallas, TX, July 13-15, gathered WDC Church Planting Commission members, church planters, other leaders and guests seeking to proclaim the kingdom of God by planting missional communities of peace.  The theme Missional Communities of Peace emphasized the … Continue reading →

In April, the WDC Resource Commission offered Mustard Seed Grants to resource congregations as they share the good news of Jesus in creative ways. Here’s a snapshot of how grants were used by congregations: West Zion Mennonite Church, Moundridge, KS, … Continue reading →

If you have ever attended a professional convention, you come home with a load of “swag,” free stuff that advertises other stuff.  You also attend a bunch of workshops and network with colleagues who have similar interests.  This year’s Western … Continue reading →

My husband Caleb and I moved to Kansas from Iowa in January 2017, and he began serving on the pastoral team at Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church in Goessel. Then, on February 25, 2017, our first child, Austin, was born. We have … Continue reading →