Wheatley Old Colony Mennonite Church

Wheatley-Tilbury Townline, R.R.1

Wheatley, Ontario N0P 2P0

Pastor: Peter W. Friesen

Tel: (519) 825-4400

Membership 1994: 100

email address:

web site:

Motto: "Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ." 1 Cor. 3:11

The Old Colony Mennonite Church (OCMC) was established in Essex and Kent in 1965 to preserve the values and traditions brought along by the Mennonites from Mexico who settled in this area. Initially the OCMC had one place of worship about 5 km north of Wheatley, built in 1971-71. The congregation grew at a tremendous rate, and it was necessary to find additional space. In 1988 and 1989 congregations were established in the Kingsville and Dresden areas respectively.

Over the years, leadership has changed hands, but the basic structure of the church has remained the same. The church is served by one bishop and several ministers and deacons.

The OCMC has members who are involved in many local service projects. The congregation has supported MCC by working with the Ontario Mennonite Immigrant Assistance Committee and at the Et Cetera Shoppe. Other cooperative participation is seen in the Mennonite Savings and Credit Union, South Essex Community Council, and Leamington Mennonite Home.