New Chair of MDS Saskatchewan Elected

Henry Schmitt of Warman, Sask. has been elected the new Chair of Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) Saskatchewan.

Schmitt, 43, is a member of the Bergthaler Mennonite Church in Warman. He replaces Ida Buhler who resigned in October.

“I’m excited to take on this new role,” said Schmitt, who was previously Vice-Chair of the MDS Saskatchewan unit.

“Through MDS we can show God’s love for people hit by natural disasters, we can be the hands and feet of Jesus for them.”

During a week of MDS service last December in Texas, Schmitt saw first-hand the impact the organization can have on people whose homes were damaged by storms. At the same time, he also appreciated how MDS brings together people from diverse backgrounds “to do God’s work on behalf of others.”

Through his service with MDS, “it was a blessing to make new friends,” he said, noting how theological differences were set aside while people worked to repair houses.

Schmitt, who is married to Tina and the father of two sons, works in sales for Q-Line Trucking of Saskatoon.

Ross Penner, Director of Canadian Operations for MDS, welcomed Schmitt to his new role and expressed appreciation for Buhler who served for over 15 years.

“Ida has been an amazing asset for the Saskatchewan Unit and the MDS Canada board, where she has served as treasurer,” he said. “Her sharp thinking and love of laughter have been a gift to us.”

John Longhurst, MDS Canada Communications Coordinator