LTRP Note: The following article intro is from Menno-Lite, a blog that is faithfully  reporting on the Mennonite Brethren’s slide into the contemplative camp.

“Is the Mennonite Brethren Conference Knowingly Condoning Ecumencial Inter-spiritual Practices?”
by Menno-lite

Recently, the MB Herald promoted a book party by Rachel Twigg Boyce for Shane Claiborne’s latest book (see MB Herald promotes Ecumenism, New Monasticism). This was not an isolated promotion, as they are in partnership with her. On the Mennonite Brethren Conference website is a video labeled: Celebration 2010 Houseblend Ministries, Added August, 27, 2010. On the video is Rachel Twigg Boyce introducing House Blend Ministries, an initiative of Missions and Church Extension through the Mennonite Brethren Church of Manitoba. Not only is Rachel Twigg Boyce the director of House Blend Ministries, she is also completing her training as a spiritual director in Shekinah at St.Benedict’s, where she is very active. Shekinah is a two year ecumenical formation program for directors at St. Benedict’s.

The St. Benedict’s Retreat Centre 2010-2011 Schedule brochure contains information on training opportunities and workshops on Centering Prayer and Reiki. From the very beginning St. Benedict’s has welcomed diverse groups such as the Health Sciences Center, Anglicans, Mennonites, United, and Lutheran church groups as well as yoga and Buddhist meditation retreats. Recent speaking guests have included Phyllis Tickle, Richard Rohr, and the Mennonite’s favorite new monastic/activist and upcoming youth convention speaker, Shane Claiborne.
[Sources: www.stbens.ca/pdfs/Spring2010.pdf, www.stbens.ca/brochure1011.pdf]

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AN ARCHIVE OF ARTICLES ON MENNONITE BRETHREN & CONTEMPLATIVE SPIRITUALITY