Our history
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!