To learn more about the history leading up to the founding of the Pacific Centre for Discipleship Association and the early years of the Menno Simons Centre, see the following papers:
- Ministry to Mennonite University Students in British Columbia, 1950-2006 by John D. Friesen, Ph.D. in Direction Journal (Spring 2008, Vol. 37, No. 1, pp. 122–131)
- Ministry to Mennonite University Students in British Columbia (53KB PDF) written in April 2006 by John D. Friesen, Ph.D.
Timeline
1986 – The PCDA is created and 4000 West 11th Avenue is purchased to create the Menno Simons Centre.
1987 – The first Abendmusik concert is held. (more information here)
1988 – Major renovations are completed at the Menno Simons Centre
1990 – Student Ministry Symposium
1991 – Anabaptist Lecture Series
1993 – Anabaptist Chair at Regent College created – Abendmusik performs 50th concert
1994 – Abendmusik begins performing at Knox United Church
1995 – Purpose and Planning Committee begins organization evaluation
1996-99 – St. Petersburg Christian College Project conducted
1998-99 – Anabaptism in Dialog Lecture Series
2000 – Renovations are completed on the Centre washrooms – Abendmusik performs 100th concert
2002 – The Sun Room addition is completed at the Centre
2006 – Faith and Life Integration Program begins
2007 – Abendmusik performs 150th concert
2008 – Urban Gardening begins at the Menno Simons Centre
2016 – The PCDA celebrates 30 years!
2017 – Deposit made on the property at 2026 Wesbrook Mall (Gerard House) for a future new student residence
2018 – Completed purchase of the Gerard House, leased back to the University Christian Ministries (Pentecostal)
2019 – Purchased 2076 Wesbrook Mall (Lutheran Campus Centre) in collaboration with MCC Legacy Trust. Sold 4000 West 11th Avenue.
2020 – Completed one-year lease-back of the Menno Simons Centre and moved out in May after celebrating 34 years of ministry!
2021 – UEL Official Community Plan was updated in April to reflect the Area D Neighbourhood Plan (including 2026 & 2076 Wesbrook Mall)
2022 – Menno Hall proposal public consultation period in May & June for Change of Land Use District Application #3/21 (rezoning)
2023 – Menno Hall rezoning approved and amalgamation of 2026 & 2076 Wesbrook Mall completed (Lot 5 & 6 became Lot A).
2024 – Menno Hall development permit approved and construction begins, in collaboration with HyLand Properties!
2025 – Construction continues; celebrated the “Topping Off” ceremony on October 14th. First hire: Director of Pax House at Menno Hall, Wanda Froese.