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Frequently asked questions

 

  1. Where does MCC get its funding?

    MCC Canada is supported by the generosity of a wide variety of people and sources. Mennonite and Brethren in Christ supporters provide a significant portion of MCCC's income. This includes money raised through relief sales and thrift shops. Other significant sources of income include grants, most coming from the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).

  2. How much of MCC's budget is used for administrative overhead?

    In recent years approximately 15 to 19 percent of MCC’s budget was spent on administrative overhead. MCC strives to maintain a proper balance between overhead expenses and the ability to provide effective programs and services. Overhead related to disasters like the recent earthquake in Haiti is less. The percentage varies according to the amount of money raised and the costs involved. In any case, the administrative overhead for disasters is not more than 10 percent, and is often less. 

  3. How does MCC Canada determine which disasters to respond to or which projects to pursue?

    MCCC responds to disasters through existing partners or by using existing networks to connect with new partners. Priority is placed on regions where MCCC already has work and partners. In general, MCCC has found that the best way to ensure success is to work with local partners such as churches and community groups. MCCC funds projects only after careful consultation with people living in the local community to ensure that local needs and perspectives are given priority.

  4. Who are the Mennonites?

    Mennonites trace the origin of their church to the Anabaptist movement in 16th century Europe. They take their name from one of the early leaders, Menno Simons. At the heart of their faith is a belief in the authority of the Bible, following the teachings of Jesus, adult baptism and a commitment to peace and reconciliation. Although many Mennonites in Canada and the U.S. are descendants of European immigrants, a growing number are people of color. More than half the world’s Mennonites live in the southern hemisphere. Read more about Mennonite faith and identity through web resources from Mennonite Church USA or Mennonite Historical Society of Canada.

  5. Who are the Anabaptists?

    Originally, the term Anabaptist was associated with Christians of the 16th century Radical Reformation in Europe. Current successors include the Amish, Brethren in Christ, Hutterites, Mennonites and Bruderhof Communities. Among some groups there is renewed interest in using the term when describing themselves.

    Beliefs common to many Anabaptist groups
     
    Non-violence
    This includes not “bearing the sword.” Historically this meant a refusal to participate in any form of police or military service. Today, many Anabaptists believe they are called to practise active peacemaking at all times. Over the years the Anabaptist commitment to peace has been referred to in a number of ways including non-resistance, pacifism, and nonviolent resistance. A commitment to Christ’s way of peace endures among the confessions of most Anabaptist groups. 
     
    Believer's baptism
    Believers receive baptism and join the church upon their free and voluntary confession of faith as adults. This is in contrast to infant baptism in which infants or young children may be baptized upon request of a parent who professes faith. The word "Anabaptist" has its roots in a Greek word for "rebaptizer” and was originally considered a derogatory term.
     
    The church as the body of Christ and community of believers
    Members of the church community are to practise forgiveness, reconciliation and mutual aid, and are to discipline one another in a spirit of love. They are to live as a sign of, and witness to, God's reign on earth. Some groups have considered it important to live in communities that are separated from the society (or world) around them.

    Following Christ’s example
    Believers are called to follow Jesus’ example in all aspect of their daily lives. They are to try to live as Jesus lived.
     
    For more information visit www.gameo.org or www.mwc-cmm.org
     

  6. I have more questions. Who can contact?

    Please email your questions to canada@mennonitecc.ca and we will respond.