Nith Valley Mennonite Church!

A celebration 50 years in the making, took place at Nith Valley Mennonite Church (Ontario) on September 28, 2025. The day was filled with thanksgiving and inspiration as more than 140 people from the congregation’s past and present gathered for worship, fellowship and food! Nith Valley was born out of the amalgamation of Biehn & Blenheim Mennonite Churches - two small congregations who recognized that working together provided an opportunity for creating something new!

The morning service featured songs from a women’s ensemble and a slide show looking back at the people and activities from five decades of ministry. Rick Cober Bauman was the guest speaker, son of the congregation’s first pastor, the late Gordon Bauman. Rick’s mother, Erma Bauman, who at the age of 97 was easily the oldest person present! Rick challenged the congregation using 1 Thessalonians 5:12-23 and the words “Don’t Quench the Spirit” in light of current challenging times of transition for many faith communities. Rick reflected on the current church climate in Canada which might create anxiety for us as we try to preserve what we have. But Rick reminded everyone that God’s Spirit is always at work and our need to be in control certainly does not further the work of the church. Our Anabaptist faith and lifestyle that reflects Paul’s invitation is something the world wants and needs right now; live at peace with one another, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone and pray without ceasing. A fitting reminder of what the church can be now and for years to come!

The spectacular weather allowed for an outdoor large group photo to end the time of worship but not before a “time capsule” from 1986 was opened to provide a glimpse into the congregation’s history. New items will be added to an updated “time capsule” featuring current news and marking the “Anabaptism at 500” celebration in Zurich! Photos and artifacts were displayed, looking back at 50 years of ministry and congregational life. The celebration concluded with a catered lunch and cake, of course!

The day was filled with much rejoicing for the many years that God has been present in the life of the congregation and through the movement of the Spirit through which relationships and faith have flourished. May the challenges of the next 50 years provide an abundance of opportunities for faith to be nurtured and the love of God be expressed so that God’s healing and hope might flow through us into the world!