Episode 59: The Life and Adventures of Jacob Hoemsen (Part 2)

Tales from the Mennonite Heritage Archives Episode 59

  •  Russian orthodox style church, taking during Jacob Hoemsen's time volunteering as a medical orderly (MHC PP-2 Photo Col. 594-6.0)

Today, we bring you Part 2 of the Life and Adventures of Jacob Hoemsen

In Part 2, we return to the story of Jacob Hoemsen, as he rejects his pacifist upbringing to serve in the controversial Mennonite Self Defence League to protect Mennonite colonists from various paramilitary groups during the War of Ukrainian Independence. Later, a close call with Soviet authorities for whom he worked, clinched his decision to migrate to Canada.

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Podcast Series: Tales from the Mennonite Heritage Archives
Episode 59:  Jacob Hoemsen (Part 2)
Date: January 25, 2026
Host: Dan Dyck
Published by The Mennonite Heritage Archives