News

Dr. Fernando Enns, teacher of systematic theology and ecumenical studies at Heidelberg University in Germany, is Conrad Grebel University College’s 2005 Bechtel Lecturer. He will be speaking on Mennonites: a Peace Church in Conversation on March 16 & 17. Wednesday’s lecture will focus on Dialogue and Diversity in the Ecumenical Movement, while Thursday’s lecture will deal with Identity and Tolerance in a Pluralist Society.

Conrad Grebel University College has planned a memorial service for Thursday, February 3 at 12:30pm in Grebel's Chapel.

With deep sadness Conrad Grebel University College mourns the loss of founding president, Joseph Winfield Fretz, 94, who passed away peacefully on January 24, 2005, after a brief illness at Kidron-Bethel Retirement Center in North Newton, Kansas.

It is with deep sadness that Conrad Grebel University College mourns the death of Dr. Rodney James Sawatsky, on November 27, 2004. Rod died at home in Waterloo at the age of 60, in loving care after a courageous struggle with brain cancer. Beloved and devoted husband of Lorna (Ewert) for 40 years. Cherished father of Tanya of Waterloo, Lisa and Katherine, both of Toronto.

This summer, Conrad Grebel University College welcomed Dr. Nathan Funk, Assistant Professor in Peace and Conflict Studies (PACS), as the newest member of the Grebel faculty. With his highly interdisciplinary training, broad range of teachable courses, and keen interest in research and writing about ethnic and communal identity in large-scale conflict and peacebuilding processes, Funk promises to be a perfect match for Grebel’s growing PACS program. Marlene Epp, Academic Dean, says

Most people of Russian Mennonite heritage have heard stories of the massive old oak tree in Khortitsa, Russia. The tree was an unofficial gathering place for the whole community with picnics, weddings, and meetings often taking place in the cool shade of its leaves. Coined “Hundert-jaehrig Eiche” (Hundred Year Old Oak) by early Mennonite settlers, the tree is estimated to be 700-800 years old.

After combing through nine of Frank H. Epp’s filing cabinets (so far), Linda Huebert Hecht knows more than a little bit about this important church leader. Hired by Conrad Grebel University College in 1999, she has worked part-time archiving Epp's extensive collection of correspondence, research notes, articles and newspaper clippings. According to Sam Steiner, Grebel Archivist, this five year project, jointly funded by the Frank H. Epp Memorial Fund and Grebel, is important because

Know what is in front of your face and what is hidden from you will be disclosed.

This is the central theme in Tom Harpur’s most recent book The Pagan Christ: Recovering the Lost Light. Harpur, a columnist for the Toronto Star, spoke at a fundraiser for Toronto Mennonite Theological Centre (TMTC) in June.

At Conrad Grebel University College’s 24th annual Convocation Service in April, 63 students were challenged to strive to be bigger and better, dialogue with one another, and make a difference in the world. Achievements of University of Waterloo undergraduates who have participated in Grebel life were recognized, while four Master of Theological Studies students had degrees conferred upon them.

Mark Yantzi embodies the spirit and tradition of peacemaking and conflict resolution that lies at the heart of Grebel's Peace and Conflict Studies program,

says Henry Paetkau, Conrad Grebel University College President. Yantzi is the 2004 recipient of the Conrad Grebel Distinguished Alumni Service Award.

Professor Leonard Enns has been a member of Conrad Grebel's Music department since 1977. Conducting, music theory, and composition are his main teaching areas, and he has directed the College Chapel Choir since coming to Grebel.