Village News

There are aspects of the story of the Mennonites, going back to the sixteenth century, that are profoundly moving and inspirational. The determination and loyalty of the martyrs, and the vision and persistence of those who left their homeland to migrate to a new land, should be respected and celebrated.

That being said, there are times were we as individuals, and maybe we as a people-group, need to look in the mirror and collectively laugh at ourselves. Jonathan Korneslsen, the designer and producer of Menno Apparel, is trying to help us do just that. He has created slogans, together with some graphics, which both entertain us and reflect an element of our culture. These slogans are then screened on to tee-shirts and aprons.

For example one tee-shirt says, “Mennonites put the Oba in Manitoba.” “Oba” is a frequently used term in Low German, the language that has served the Mennonites for centuries. One of his aprons designed for men reports, “Sure Mennonite girls can cook, but Mennonite boys can eat.” Mennonite Girls Can Cook is a very successful series of cookbooks.

Village Books and Gifts, the gift shop at MHV is the exclusive seller of Menno Apparel in the Steinbach area. Here is another great Christmas gift idea for the person who already has everything. The gift shop is open 9:00 to 5:00, Monday through Friday and will be open on Saturdays from November 15 till Christmas.