April/May 2010

I had the privilege of attending the Canadian Association
of Mennonite Schools Principals’ meetings at the
beginning of March. Bob Hummelt, who is the Principal
of Westgate Mennonite Collegiate, shared a devotional
on light that caught my attention. In Southern Manitoba
where many Mennonites settled after immigrating to
Canada, a regular practice in the evening during those
dark, cold wintery nights was to have a candle burning
in the window. This candle, called an “Oventlicht” in Low
German, was an invitation to a lost traveler that they were
welcome. I thought this was a wonderful illustration of
the verses found in Matthew 5:14 -16: “You are the light
of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither
do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead
they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in
the house. In the same way, let your light shine before
men, that they may see your good deeds and praise
your Father in heaven.” As Christians we want to be
a welcoming light to those around us at all times. As
Easter approaches let us remember the light that Jesus
gives. His sacrifice on the cross was incredible. It
changed the world! My hope is that our lives will be a
welcoming light to others just as the “Oventlicht” was a
life saver to many travelers in Southern Manitoba.
This newsletter reflects on recent MBCI events and
anticipates the many exciting activities throughout
the months of April and May. We have just concluded
another successful basketball season. Congratulations
to all the teams and their coaches who worked hard all
season. Our band and choir trip will provide our students
with many exciting and interesting experiences. Coming
events include our Spring concerts with our Bands and
Choirs and our Fundraising Reception.
In the meantime, we are once again interviewing new
students for next year and actively planning for the
2010-2011 school year. As we look back and look ahead,
we sense the support of a strong school community
comprised of wonderful students, an excellent staff,
encouraging parents and a committed Parent Advisory
Council and School Board. Much of the year is already
behind us. We do, however have three very significant
months ahead. Let’s work together to finish the school
year well!