Episode 54: Patrick Friesen, Menno Colony, Paraguay

Tales from the Mennonite Heritage Archives Episode 54

Map of Mennonite colony settlements, Paraguay (US MCC IX-13-02.04 box 6 folder 4/86-01)
First Mennonite homes in Chaco, Paraguay (US MCC IX-13-02.04 box 6 folder 4/88-12)
Martin Friesen, historian of the Menno Colony, Paraguay, delivering an address. (MHA 492-782.0)
This photo is of an elementary school students meeting (Schülerfest) of all elementary schools in Menno Colony, taking place in Loma Plata, Menno Colony, Paraguay. (MHA 518-109.0)
Gruenau Mennonite Church (Menno Colony, Paraguay. (CA MAO XV-19.3-1992-14-3854)

In this episode, we’re delighted to bring you an interview with Patrick Friesen, a third generation Mennonite from Paraguay. His great-grandfather, C.F. Friesen, was one of the early leaders and teachers in Paraguay. Patrick shares about the historical migration from Manitoba, paints a picture of the Menno Colony today — and issues an invitation in English and Low German to visit his community for its 100th anniversary in 2027.

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Podcast Series: Tales from the Mennonite Heritage Archives
Episode 54: Patrick Friesen, Menno Colony, Paraguay
Date: December 14, 2025
Host: Dan Dyck
Published by The Mennonite Heritage Archives

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