I love stories. Our patterns of life are shaped by our stories. As faith communities, we arrange our memories, experiences, and central values into corresponding stories that define our corporate identity and purpose. Our shared stories form a narrative that is arguably the most significant influence on our future together.

So, what is the story that we tell through the generosity of our participation, abilities, and money shared for ministry through IMMC? Here are a few snapshots:

Participation and Abilities
The number of our congregations is not impressive. However, I am constantly blown away by the people who are joining in. The Diversity Isn’t Enough webinar with Ben Tapper was last week. It was good and the best part was the depth of people’s participation, even with the challenges of virtual space. I am learning that generous participation is typical among us.

God’s generosity is clearly visible in the gifts and abilities of the people of IMMC. Many of these gifts are shared on leadership teams, in our gatherings, and in personal interactions. The All-Teams Retreat took place a few weeks back. This is an annual event for everyone serving on a conference team. What an amazing group of people! The skills and abilities embodied by these folks is inspiring.

Money
Generous financial gifts and wise decisions in the past few years has created a sense of freedom and blessing for our conference community. Let me explain. We do something quite unique we call capital grants. Thanks to years of contributions, IMMC congregations can receive a grant to help them maintain or improve their facilities. Three congregations have received grant assistance in just the last 18 months. Benton Mennonite Church put a grant to work in a building addition providing for barrier-free access. Belmont Mennonite and Prairie Street Mennonite Churches each used a grant to help them with solar panel projects. Contact the conference office if you would like to hear more about capital grants, or if you would like to help financially.

Financial generosity has also made it possible to provide grants for pastoral education. We are very excited to offer financial help to our pastors who are a part of Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary’s new Doctor of Ministry program with the first cohort beginning in January 2023. Let us know if you are a pastor interested in the program or you would like to offer financial support.

These are just a few glimpses of generosity seen around the conference.

What stories of generosity among us do you have to tell?

~ Steve Slagel, IMMC Moderator Elect