September 2nd

Collaboration of Communities Shapes Lives

It is a 15-year collaboration that continues to shape lives in two communities: Pauingassi First Nation partners with Southeast Child and Family Services to provide summer programming for their children, and SECFS partners with Grace Mennonite Church (Steinbach) to help run the family camp.

“Each year that fire, flood, or plague hasn’t stopped us, a group of us [from Grace] has flown up [to Pauingassi] for relationship building, fun on the beach, seeing the Christ in others, and valuing the wisdom and knowledge of this Indigenous community,” says Andrea Dick, one of the leaders for this summer’s camp.

“That we have consistently partnered in running camp together for 15 years means that both communities are known and trusted by each other, and we look forward to spending time together every year,” adds Grace pastor Kyle Penner.

This summer, 26 people from Grace made the trip to Pauingassi, joined by Mennonite Church Manitoba Director of Mission Engagement Melanie Neufeld. “Our week involved swimming, crafts, cooking, cliff jumping, canoeing, bannock making, hiking, and lots of laughter,” says Kyle. “Every year, the community of Pauingassi helps out with cooking, baking, boat driving, tours—and lots of laughter.”

“We start our day with devotions and end with a campfire circle that includes sharing, singing, and the contemplative song, ‘Be at Rest Once More, O My Soul,’” adds Andrea. “I think these bookends to our day are really important to be with the Pauingassi folks in a good way, as the days of camp get very busy.”

This summer a few young people from Pauingassi mentioned that they were interested in working as staff at the camp next year. They have been at the camp for many years, and now they want to help lead it.

“When one of the campers, Mikayla, said this, she was so quiet and seemed to sort of say it in passing. It was a voice that could have been easily missed,” Andrea says. “But then Kyle jumped in and asked what job she would like to do next year, and she said that she really liked preparing and serving the food. What might this do for this young person if she is given a chance to lead, to serve her community and others?”

Thoughts are already turning toward next summer. “Pauingassi Family Camp is the highlight of the year for many of us, both Gracers and the kids from Pauingassi,” says Kyle. “We are so thankful for the trust and the hospitality that the Pauingassi community shows us every year, and are looking forward to many more years of camp!”

Praise God for the relationships that have been built between our northern and southern communities and congregations! Let’s pray that these relationships continue to bear the fruit of love, joy, and peace. If you’d like to give financially to support this work among us, see www.mennochurch.mb.ca/giving.