“Topping Off” Ceremony Marks Major Construction Milestone at Menno Hall
On October 14, 2025 members of the Menno Hall community gathered with architects, builders, and local leaders to mark a major milestone in the project’s construction — the topping off of the building’s structure.
A topping off ceremony traditionally recognizes the completion of a building’s frame and signals the transition from exterior to interior work. For Menno Hall, it was an opportunity to acknowledge the collaboration and care that have shaped the project since its earliest plans.
The event opened with a reflection and prayer from Reverend Cliff Reinhardt, recognizing past visions for the lot, deep roots of community, and the faith that continue to guide the project. Guests included MLA for Vancouver Point Grey and Premier David Eby, Area A Director Jen McCutcheon, and Wade Grant, MP for Vancouver Quadra, alongside representatives from Axiom Builders and Fast + Epp. Members of the MCCBC, Hyland Properties, and Pacific Centre for Discipleship Association boards were also present, as well as leadership from Regent College, Carey Hall, Vancouver School of Theology, and St. Andrew’s Hall.
Paul Fast, a pioneer in the use of mass timber, spoke about the sustainability benefits of this form of construction and reflected on the significance of the Menno Hall project. MCCBC CEO Wayne Bremner spoke about the partnerships that have brought the project to this stage and the vision it serves.
In his remarks, Premier Eby highlighted Menno Hall as an example of British Columbia’s growing leadership in sustainable construction and housing innovation. He noted the project’s use of mass timber, supplied by BC based Kalesnikoff.
Ken Friesen closed the event by thanking the project team, the Province of British Columbia, CMHC, BC Housing, and the many friends and neighbours who supported the work along the way. He noted that “Menno Hall and Pax House carry forward a legacy of intentional community — one grounded in dialogue and faith.”
Following the speeches, attendees were invited to sign the final cross-laminated timber (CLT) panel, commemorating the completion of the building’s structure. Nick Sully of Shape Architecture then offered a toast of recognition — acknowledging the many hands and disciplines involved in bringing Menno Hall to this point, and marking the occasion as an important step toward completion.
With the building’s structure now complete, crews will begin interior construction and finishing work through the winter, with move-in for the first residents planned for Fall 2026.
The topping off ceremony served as both celebration and reminder—of how collective effort and shared vision can raise not only a roof, but also a community.
