The translating did not go as smoothly as hoped. As we began singing all lights went out except spotlights highlighting a picture of the Queen and a Canadian flag fluttering in the breeze of a fan. My ears still ring when I think of all the criticism I received from many who saw this as nationalism which has no place in a global gathering of Mennonites. The critics were right, of course, but may have overreacted. Canada is not an arrogant nation.
Perceptions are so important.
I doubt that anyone felt good about that moment. But it was a good conference. While 12,207 persons registered for the conference, the total weekend attendance was nearly double that number. Three charter planes came from Europe. Unfortunately Harold Bender was already suffering from cancer and could come only briefly to address the conference.