CMC Renames Itself Rosedale Network of Churches

CMC, formerly known as Conservative Mennonite Conference, has changed its name to Rosedale Network of Churches. The rebranding took place on Feb. 23 during the Ministers Business Meeting at the Annual Pastors Conference, hosted by Fairlawn Mennonite Church in Apple Creek, Ohio. The decision reflects a broader effort to align the group’s identity with its global Anabaptist roots and to distance itself from associations that may not fully represent its theological stance.

Founded as the Conservative Amish Mennonite Conference in 1910, the group removed the word “Amish” from its name in 1957. It rebranded to CMC in 2018, the same year Lancaster Mennonite Conference changed its name to LMC. Leaders described CMC as a transitional name, acknowledging the need for a more inclusive and representative identity. Rosedale Network executive director Brian Hershberger explained that the name change was driven by a desire to clarify the group’s commitment to evangelical Anabaptism, which is distinct from the Amish or Mennonite Church USA associations that often come to mind.

Hershberger noted that the word “Mennonite” can be misunderstood in many communities, where it is frequently linked to Amish traditions or other Mennonite denominations. He also highlighted that “conservative” is often perceived as a political term rather than a theological one. Despite these considerations, the transition was not without emotional weight. Some members expressed grief over the loss of the word “Mennonite” from the name, recognizing its historical significance.

The new name, Rosedale Network, reflects the group’s institutional presence at Rosedale Bible College and Rosedale International, which engages in mission work. Hershberger emphasized that “Rosedale” has long been a familiar term within Anabaptist circles, both in the U.S. and internationally. By adopting this name, the group aims to embrace a more widely recognized and inclusive identity.

The transition has sparked diverse reactions among members. Conference pastor Darren Peachey noted that while some see the change as timely, others are attached to the history of the name CMC. He described a range of perspectives, with some embracing the new name, others expressing disappointment, and a few remaining uncertain. The Rosedale Network identifies itself as a family of evangelical Anabaptist churches with 113 congregations and over 13,000 members across 24 states.

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