November 26th

Interim Director of Camps with Meaning Appointed

Dave Bergen has been appointed Interim Director of Camps with Meaning, stepping into the role in January 2026.

“When Dorothy Fontaine let us know she would be stepping down at the end of the year, we knew it would be hard to fill her shoes. We also knew it would be important to find a good interim person for the role to set the stage for a permanent appointment,” says Executive Minister Michael Pahl. “We are very pleased that Dave has agreed to take on this interim position.”

Dave’s background has prepared him well to fill this role. He has experience in onsite camp leadership as guest group program developer, summer program director, and camp manager. He has also served on the Camps with Meaning Committee and as a volunteer at Camp Assiniboia, and he is currently a member of the Light the Fire capital campaign team. In addition, he has extensive experience as a pastor within MCM and as staff for Mennonite Church Canada. Dave is a member of Bethel Mennonite Church, where he has recently served as congregational chairperson.

“Camps with Meaning was very influential for me in my early formation as a church leader,” Dave says. “I welcome the opportunity, as Interim Director, to contribute to the faith and leadership formation of the diverse groups of people who value camp as a rich setting in which to strengthen their own journey in faith and life.”

The Director of Camps with Meaning oversees the camping and retreat ministry of Mennonite Church Manitoba as a whole, as well as the general operations of Camp Assiniboia.

“This is a crucial position for us because our camping and retreat ministry is so important to us as a community of congregations,” says Michael. “Faith formation, community outreach, leadership development, hospitality—these are at the heart of who we are as a church, and Camps with Meaning is crucial for us in all these ways.”

Applications are being accepted for the permanent position of Director of Camps with Meaning. See www.mennochurch.mb.ca/jobs for more information.