November 12th

Dorothy Fontaine Concluding Her Ministry

After ten years serving Mennonite Church Manitoba, first as Director of Mission and then as Director of Camps with Meaning, Dorothy Fontaine is stepping down in the new year.

“Working for MCM has been fulfilling, challenging, and a time of deep learning,” says Dorothy. “After a decade in these roles, I am ready to transition into another phase of life. I know I will miss this chapter, even as I look forward to the next. I am at the age where my kids are starting to have kids, and I am eager to support and spend time with them.”

Executive Minister Michael Pahl reflects on Dorothy’s ministry among us. “As Director of Mission, Dorothy prioritized establishing and maintaining relationships with Indigenous communities, including those that have had historic ties to MCM,” he says. “As Director of Camps with Meaning, she inspired us with her vision for our camping and retreat ministries, and she skillfully guided Camps with Meaning through the difficult years of high Covid. Dorothy leaves with our highest respect and our greatest appreciation.”

The Director of Camps with Meaning role involves overseeing the camping and retreat ministries of MCM, and has a particular focus on overseeing operations at Camp Assiniboia. The person in this role supervises a team of staff working at the MCM offices and at Assiniboia.

This has been a role close to Dorothy’s heart. “For me, the most memorable and profound moments at Camps with Meaning relate to times when I’ve witnessed what Scripture describes as the ‘coming together of all things through Christ,’” she says. “This awe-inspiring work of the Spirit renews my hope and faith in God’s vision for unity, reconciliation, and redemption. At camp, this vision comes to life as people gather with God and creation around campfires, along forest trails, while caring for animals, and through music, play, and worship.”

Camps with Meaning operates ten weeks of Jesus-centred summer camps each year at Assiniboia and Koinonia, for more than 500 children, youth, and adults with disabilities. This program provides vital leadership formation opportunities for as many as 90 young people each year. The two camps also host around 7,000 people each year, including school groups, church retreats, family weddings, and more.

“Our camps are sacred spaces that we’ve been entrusted with,” says Dorothy. “On these grounds, holy work is being done.”

We are searching for a new Director of Camps with Meaning to carry on Dorothy’s good work. We are also looking for a Facilities Manager for Camp Assiniboia. See here for job descriptions. Tap shoulders, suggest names, and pray for us in these searches!