News

MCC supporters from across the region gathered at Reba Place Church in Evanston, Illinois, for the 2010 Great Lakes annual gathering.

The theme of the weekend (and MCC’s annual theme) was “New hope in the name of Christ.” This theme draws from the goal of MCC to share God’s love and compassion for all in the name of Christ, while working to offer hope and dignity where it may not be readily apparent.

As people across our region gathered beginning on Friday evening, we were welcomed and cared for by the generous folks from Reba Place, who provided meals, lodging, childcare and logistical support.

The worship service on Friday evening included music, stories from IVEP (International Volunteer Exchange Program), an offering of health kit supplies and biblical reflections from Steve Steiner on his recent learning tour with MCC to South Sudan. Activities on Saturday began with a breakfast for congregational representatives, followed by a business session where the budget and new Board members were approved by representatives.

During two workshop sessions, topics ranged from an update on Palestine/Israel to MCC opportunities for young adults. Between sessions and during break times, attendees had the opportunity to connect with staff, board and other participants.

Our time together wrapped up on Saturday afternoon with another engaging worship service where we sang together and heard a message on streams of living water from Jenny & Joél Bishop Kemp, MCC service workers in Mozambique.

One participant wrote in their evaluation form, “I never attended such a meeting before. I was glad to see what all is going on, how the Great Lakes region functions and meeting people involved in MCC.”

Check out a photo gallery of images from the event.

For additional photos, visit our photo album on our Great Lakes Facebook page.

Mark your calendars now for the 2011 gathering on February 25-26, 2011. (Location to be announced.)