Community is at the heart of what it means to be a Christian in the Mennonite tradition. At OMC much of this happens informally through conversations after worship or over a meal. We also connect by participating in more formal groups or organized activities that help us build relationships. It’s through these relationships that we support each other and grow in our faith. In the list below you’ll find some of the current opportunities for connecting with others at OMC.
Christian Formation Hour
Except for the months of July and August we gather at 9:30 AM for our Christian formation hour. Children age two through grade eight participate in Sunday School based on the Shine curriculum. High school students, led by our Youth and Young Adult pastor or another teacher, engage the big questions of faith and life. Adults typically gather in our fellowship hall for discussions of contemporary issues, seasonal themes, or a Bible study series.
Youth and Children’s Programs
Youth Group: Our high school students meet on Wednesday evenings for games, discussion and prayer. They also get together for social events and service opportunities. Each year they go on one extended service and learning trip beyond the Ottawa region.
Junior Fellowship: Students in grade five through eight get together once or twice a month to have fun and volunteer in our community.
Young Adults
Many young adults come to Ottawa to work and study. Students and young adults connected to OMC gather regularly to share life and faith. An important connecting point is the weekly potluck held at the Ark.
The Ark
The Ark is our Young Adult housing initiative. It typically has rooms available to rent starting Jan. 1 , May 1 or Sept. 1. For more information contact Carrie Lehn, our Youth and Young Adult Minister.
Small Groups and Small Events
We worship as a whole group and enjoy personal friendships but we also experience Christian fellowship in various small groups. One way this happens is through our ongoing programs like our choirs and youth gatherings. Each September we also organize a variety of other groups based on interest or the initiative of our congregants. These are the active groups for 2022-23:
- Book Club
- Quilting Group
- Choir
- Walking Groups (morning or evening)
- Board Games Group
- Sacred Pauses Group
- Virtual Conversation Group
- Men’s Breakfast
During the last couple of years we have also begun experimenting with “Small Events,” a series of one-time activities held around the city. Our hope is that these events allow members of our community to make initial connections in a way that is low-risk and low-commitment.
Other Church Events
The whole OMC community gets together regularly for fellowship meals as well as important holidays. There are usually special meals for Easter and Christmas. We also celebrate baptisms and child-dedications. In addition, we have a Church Retreat each fall and Weekend of Worship and Reflection each winter.