In December 2016, the Mennonite Men program, JoinHands, extended a $40,000 grant to West Hills Mennonite Fellowship (the Baden Church plant) and this is their story:
‘Your generous grant has allowed us to advance the building project. While we have experienced challenges, we are excited about our mission and want to share how God is working in Baden.
One of our core missions is to reach out to families in Baden, Ontario. Dozens of children are participating in a bi-weekly FROG program meeting at a local school gymnasium. As they enjoy physical activity, we have the opportunity to share in their lives as we share stories about God’s love.
A strong relationship has been established with the Baden Community Association (BCA), a local volunteer organization working to build community and culture in town. This relationship has allowed us an active part in the annual Baden Corn Fest event by funding and serving in their Kids Zone. By participating, we are able to converse with parents and share our story.
Since we are applying to shift the occupancy to assembly – there are some things we needed to do to bring the building up to code. In addition to updating the electrical by separating the spaces, we have completed all demolition and upgraded the existing apartment. Finally, we have invested time and resources in understanding the structural impact of the changes. This has led to some construction delays as we are required to implement a helical pier approach to the foundation.
One of the other challenges we have experienced concerns the environmental remediation. When we purchased the building – we were aware it was under a Phase 2 Environmental Assessment. The soil was contamination because the property was formerly a gas station/auto shop. Your support has enabled us to make a strong effort towards resolving this issue.
Our next steps in construction include roof repairs and to finalize the occupancy plans. We are now revising our plans to focus on occupying the east side of the building and are making minor revisions to the plan and are actively sourcing the funds required to complete the building project.
Blessings,
West Hills Fellowship’
So while they are not regularly worshipping in the building now, they occasionally meet there to advance prayer, to plan and to worship. They are already impacting the community, they are hopeful for the future and they are looking forward to worshiping our Lord in their new space. West Hills Mennonite Fellowship extends their heartfelt thank you to all those who have helped move their building project forward!
Hans Peters
Canadian Coordinator
