Mosaic Mennonite Conference Votes to Leave Mennonite Church USA
On November 1, during its annual assembly at Souderton Mennonite Church in Pennsylvania, the Mosaic Mennonite Conference made a historic decision: delegates voted nearly 3-to-1 to disconnect their membership from the Mennonite Church USA (MC USA). This change reflects a desire not only to redefine their identity but to strengthen partnerships within the broader Anabaptist community.
The Voting Process
The assembly saw an active participation from 165 delegates, with a significant consensus in favor of the recommendation to disaffiliate. A striking 64% voted “green,” affirming the proposal, while an additional 10% registered “yellow” votes, which counted as support. Together, these votes surpassed the two-thirds majority required for this significant bylaw change, with 74% in favor, while 23% voted “red” (against) and 3% abstained. The decision takes effect on November 3.
Executive Minister’s Perspective
Executive Minister Stephen Kriss emphasized the “both/and” nature of the vote. “This isn’t just about discontinuing membership; it’s about building healthier, mutual partnerships,” he stated, signaling a commitment to stay connected with MC USA and other Anabaptist groups. Kriss noted the importance of maintaining relationships moving forward into this new phase for the conference.
A Shift in the Landscape of Mennonite Conferences
With approximately 7,500 members spread across 60 congregations, Mosaic stands as one of the largest conferences within the MC USA framework. This decision marks Mosaic as the second conference to withdraw from MC USA, following the Lancaster Mennonite Conference’s secession in 2017. In contrast, several other conferences that attempted to part ways have either merged into other entities or disbanded entirely.
Contextual Frustration
The decision to leave was not made lightly; several delegates voiced their frustrations regarding what they described as consistent dismissiveness from MC USA on matters crucial to Mosaic. Moderator Angela Moyer Walter relayed feelings of insignificance in discussions, especially concerning intercultural dynamics. “We were met with dismissiveness rather than creative reconciliation,” she said, echoing the sentiments of many who felt unheard.
Absence of MC USA Representation
Notably absent from the assembly was any representative from MC USA, which several delegates regretted. The decision for non-attendance was communicated just two days prior to the meeting, citing concerns about fostering a constructive dialogue. In contrast, Kriss clarified that no one had been disinvited from attending.
Emotional Impact on Delegates
The decision to disassociate carries a heavy emotional weight. Many delegates expressed their sorrow over the division, longing for a more unified approach. Sarah Bergin from Hatfield, Pa., articulated the heartache felt throughout the assembly: “Division is never good; we should be working together,” she lamented.
Conversely, some delegates voiced a more favorable perspective on the split. They argued that it allowed for a fresh start and focused energies on cultivating new partnerships that better align with their values.
Reflections on Future Relationships
The Mosaic leadership and delegates see this decision not as a severance but an opportunity for new engagement. Pastor Beny Krisbianto articulated a hope for collaborative exploration, stating, “We will not be enemies with MC USA, but we will work together to explore something new.”
Options for Congregations
In light of these changes, congregations within Mosaic face several options. They can leave Mosaic and join an MC USA conference, remain with Mosaic while also engaging with MC USA, or participate in MC USA events without formal membership. This flexibility allows congregations to navigate their affiliations in ways that resonate with their unique identities.
Insights from Pastors
Pastors from various congregations shared their perspectives on the evolving landscape within the conference. Some expressed a desire to communicate and collaborate with MC USA, while others acknowledged that for some, the decision felt akin to a painful divorce. Discussions at the assembly revealed a strong desire for future dialogue, even amidst the pain of the present separation.
New Partnerships and Opportunities
As Mosaic steps into this new chapter, they welcome three new congregations, indicating continued growth and a commitment to an inclusive future. The emphasis on building healthy partnerships underscores a forward-thinking mentality, aiming for collaboration beyond traditional boundaries.
MC USA’s Response
In response to the separation, leaders from Mennonite Church USA offered words of support, stating their commitment to nurturing diverse congregations and exploring new forms of shared witness, even post-disaffiliation. They emphasized the importance of community, reconciliation, and commitment to equity.
Throughout the assembly, the call for both healing and new beginnings resonated loudly. As Mosaic Mennonite Conference navigates this transformative period, the commitment to remain engaged with both their identity and the wider Anabaptist community shines through, promising a complex but hopeful future ahead.