After over 123 years serving the community under the name Bergthaler Mennonite Church of Plum Coulee, the congregation has started a new chapter.

On Sunday, the church officially re-launched as Harvest Christian Fellowship.

Pastor Rob Penner says the name change has been a five-year process with the congregation, discerning a name that best suited their mission.

"There was complete unity within our team, and an excitement," he says, adding it fit with their calling.

"We're in a season where God wants to bring His Word to life. He wants to bring new growth... and this is an exciting season in the global Church," Penner says. "More and more hearts are being softened to receive His Good News. We feel that's been a strong call on us, to be willing to step into His harvest."

He notes the new name, Harvest Christian Fellowship, conveys their hope to receive new people in meeting, celebrating, and worshiping together.

At the same time, Penner says they were sensitive to the perspective of their congregation. After an initial presentation, members were given three months to discern the best decision before a vote.

And while the vote was overwhelmingly in favour of the change, he adds they respect the differing views and the desire to protect heritage. "They help us to make sure we remember, and we don't just move ahead without acknowledging everything that has been done to build a foundation here."

Penner says he's also been impressed with the older generation, many who would've preferred to keep the name, but chose to bless the new direction. "Many of them chose to look at the church body and see the growth that's happening and they recognize God is moving and don't want to stand in the way."

"That speaks a lot to their character."