Looking Back, Moving Forward: Through the Eyes of Previous ME Editors
It moved me as much as it did when I first read it years ago. The author’s authenticity, her bright intellect, and her humility all spoke to me. I read it again and again. Mag Richer Smith had been asked to write about what it takes to create a sermon.
My reading Mag’s article brought into focus one of the key reasons MennoExpressions was founded: to capitalize on the extensive talent resident at FMC. And the people of FMC came through brilliantly; all one must do is ask FMCers to write, and nuggets of hidden talent emerge!
I am enormously grateful for the very talented long-term editors we have had, for their dedication, and their creativity. MennoExpressions is not a news outlet, it is not controlled by any individual or FMC agency, but it is a record of who we were, who we are, how we have grown.
— Erv Boschmann
I so loved being a part of MennoExpressions. I came to FMC in part because of MennoExpressions. (I saw an issue focused on the arts and thought, I want to be part of that.) First as an editorial board member and later as editor, I found MennoExpressions to be a meaningful way to relate to FMCers – reading your stories, talking to you during fellowship time about whether you’d consider writing (or drawing, or sharing artwork), holding so much appreciation about how you shared of yourselves through this medium. Dreaming up each issue with simply amazing board members, and then seeing it take shape as contributions came in, was a beautiful process to be part of.
This is a really unique publication – I used to explain it as This American Life, but for Mennonites… and in print form. In my experience, there was so much talent in this congregation, so much curiosity coupled with a willingness to share. I was honored to be part of the MennoExpressions magic!
— Alison Schumacher
Kudos to MennoExpressions! Here are some of my thoughts as a past editor on looking back and moving forward:
Reading earlier print editions of MennoExpressions provides inspiring snapshot views of FMC history.
Exploring themes for each issue provided new ways to highlight congregational experiences, gifts, and talents.
I saw Erv Boschmann’s steady hand of encouragement and leadership through the years – and as I agreed to share the leadership role.
Collaborating with the talented MennoExpressions team amazed and encouraged me time after time!
During the Covid era, MennoExpressions created additional congregational connections when we could not gather in person.
The switch from print to digital issues was the most challenging aspect of my editing venture. Jason Schmucker’s technical leadership brought MennoExpressions to life online, and Gaynel Bryan cheerfully sent it to the congregation and subscribers.
The move away from print issues allowed increased use of photographs to accompany articles and add more color.
Knowing that Beth Goering and Andrea Krause have agreed to edit MennoExpressions gives me joy and encouragement as FMC continues to move forward in new and exciting ways.
— Carol Mullet
