For the past few years, I have asked what it means to be the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. What are the elements that make us who we are? What combination of flavours gives us a distinct style and approach to ministry that identifies us as being EMC? What values do we commonly hold that shape our ministry mindset? Because they exist.

Returning home after spending time in my host country often brings unexpected challenges. One of the most surprising struggles is the question of identity—how I see myself, how others see me, and how I introduce myself in different contexts. When I’m overseas, I expect to navigate cultural differences. But at home, I don’t expect to feel foreign—yet I do.

It is good to be together! This is something that the church through its existence has recognized and that we had the opportunity to celebrate again with 96 young adults from 11 EMC churches.

When I make a trivial mistake like proverbially tripping over my words, it doesn’t cut very deep. But when I make a mistake that challenges the parts of my identity that I take pride in, it tends to hurt very much.

“I don’t have many friends because most people think I’m a jerk.” I was a bit taken aback by the surprisingly blunt way my new neighbour introduced himself. I casually but curiously responded by saying, “Oh? Why is that?”