I’m honored to write about all God’s work being done in and through Mennonite Mission Network. My job is to write about work and experiences from all over the world and I am passionate about every story I tell. When Travis Duerksen asked the rest of the writing team to share our favorites (written by me or not) from the past year, I knew it would be challenging.
Hollinger-Janzen retires after more than four decades of mission
I can’t express how grateful I am to have worked alongside Lynda. She taught me so much that I didn’t know I didn’t know. Her uplifting positive energy and wonderful sense of humor, combined with her (sometimes intimidating) depth of knowledge about all things Mennonite, made her the ideal colleague and friend. Writing this story about her lifelong career of service moved me profoundly. I learned even more about the remarkable person she is and the devoted life she leads. Lynda truly sets an example of walking in Jesus’ footsteps, and her legacy continues to inspire me every day.
I still get choked up thinking about how much fun we had — I miss her terribly. But let’s not get me started…
A 44-year legacy of mission in Latin America
Linda Shelly is an absolute force! In writing this story, I learned just how amazing she really is. Her impact at Mission Network and in Latin America cannot be contained in one story, but I did my best, and it was an honor writing it.
Three years ago, when I joined Mission Network and took over the Latin America portfolio, I began working closely with her. As Director for Latin America, I collaborated virtually with Linda almost daily — except, of course, when she was deep in a remote region or airborne (which was often). She is every writer’s dream. Whenever Linda had a story from the field, she never waited to be asked: high-quality photos arrived complete with detailed captions, along with videos and thoughtfully written updates in both English and Spanish — making my job effortless and enjoyable. Beyond her impeccable organization, Linda consistently had fresh ideas and approached her work with infectious passion. Her impact at Mission Network and in Latin America is indescribable (but I tried!). She’s one of my heroes.
Learning to walk Creator’s good road
I think we should all read and reflect on this article because it deals with the Doctrine of Discovery — a 15th-century papal framework deeming Indigenous peoples subhuman and justifying land seizure — as a foundational pillar still embedded in U.S. law and worldview. The piece challenges readers to move beyond denial, guilt, or dismissal toward compassionate solidarity, offering practical steps like education through Indigenous voices, financial support for reparative efforts, and advocacy for justice. In a nation built on stolen land and broken treaties yet aspiring to liberty, confronting this legacy fosters honest reconciliation, environmental stewardship, and a more equitable future for all.
The Word became flesh and lived among us!
Ok. This isn’t a written story, but this video is an inspiring form of communication that captures the breadth of our ministry in 2025. This was truly a (big) group effort.
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