Low German speaking Mennonites from Canada gathered at Winkler's Bethel Heritage park this past weekend.  Over the years many Low German speaking Mennonites have come to Canada from colonies in Latin America, and the

Tina Fehr Kehler annual gathering known as Kanadiertreffen, reconnects those who have spread out throughout different communities.  It's also a way to welcome newcomers.

Tina Fehr Kehler, program coordinator for MCC's Low German Mennonite Services, says the gathering has been happening on and off over the years since the 1980s.  Fehr Kehler says it's just a great time to gather with people and celebrate the work they do here in Manitoba.

In addition to a speakers, Kanadiertreffen also includes a Faspa meal, and music.
    
Kennert Giesbrecht is managing editor for Low-German publication, Mennonitische Post Die.  Giesbrecht has traveled to the many Low German Mennonite Colonies in Latin America and spoke to the audience.

"There's a lot of negative stories out there," said Giesbrecht.  "We Canadians probably hear more of the negative parts, because that's what appears in the news, sadly."  Giesbrecht said when speaking to the audience, he wanted to share the good news stories.  "Just to make them aware that there's also a lot of good things happening, there's a lot of good things happening in the colonies."

There are roughly 150 Mennonite colonies in Latin America.