Mennville commemorates 75 years of God’s faithfulness and goodness
By Michael Vanderzwaag
On July 12, 2026, Mennville celebrated its 75th anniversary. As we planned this event, we were intentional in explaining that this was a celebration of the Mennville community and not just the church. We had approximately 280 people RSVP and we saw more than 350 people attend over the course of the day.
It was a beautiful but hot day with temperatures going over 40°C with humidity. The day started with a morning worship service outdoors. We had different song leaders lead music through the different “eras” of Mennville’s history (pre-piano, piano, all instruments). We had a children’s feature led by Carol Hiebert, Scripture reading from Mary Barkman, special music from the Friesen Sisters, and Layton Friesen shared a message from the Word of God. It was a blessed service and celebration of God’s faithfulness and goodness through the last 75 years and beyond.
A meal followed the service. Lawn games and a bouncy castle were available for the afternoon’s entertainment.
In the mid-afternoon we had a short program of sharing and reminiscing. Derek Johnson (MLA for Interlake-Gimli) came and presented a plaque to Frank Barkman whose family was one of the original Mennonite families to relocate to this area (and Frank still lives here to this day).
Thank you to all who came and contributed to making this day special. If you wish to view the events of the 75th anniversary, you can visit YouTube and search “Mennville EMC.”
Audio is generated with AI voice technology.
MLA Derek Johnson presents Frank Barkman with 75th anniversary plaque.
Worship team (“modern era”). (Photos supplied)