Welcome to the 27th annual North American Mandaean Convention!
This year, the North American Mandaean Convention is proud to mark its 27th anniversary. In its first year in 1996, the then-called Mandaean Camp was a small gathering of around 50 people at a campsite in Grand Bend, Ontario. Those of us that remember it recalls bunking together in small cabins surrounded by woods, making not only marshmallows but long-lasting friendships around a cozy bonfire, and gathering together in a communal dining area that was filled with food, music, dancing, and laughter! It was one of the first event of its kind in North America, organized to bring together Mandaeans and reminding everyone of the strength and identity of our community. It was considered such a success that we decided to do it again the following year, where it more than doubled to an attendance of over 120 people!
Eventually, as the years passed the camp gained momentum and continued to grow. It became a large convention with an attendance of over 400, fully equipped with parties, live bands, ballrooms, sheiks, baptisms, debates, lectures, art displays, poetry and so much more. The convention has become a place where old friends can reunite – some who haven’t seen each other since they were small children. In addition to reuniting old friends, the convention has also fostered new friendships and even long-lasting marriages, showing Mandaeans that they are not alone and that they do indeed have brothers and sisters from around the world who can relate to their experiences.
The 2024 NAMC Committee:
The past committees have done a spectacular job of making the convention what it is, and we are honored to have the torch passed down to us. Looking forward, the convention continues to aim to bring Mandaeans together, strengthening existing relationships, starting new ones, and creating long-lasting memories. Our goal is to remind everyone of the beauty of our culture, our heritage, our religion, and most importantly our people. To do this we need you to come! The convention is not a place or a location, it is not a series of events over a few days, it is not a party or a baptism; it is the people. The people make the convention, and as such we, the committee, hope to see everyone at the convention this year to help us not only make new memories but to celebrate the strong 25 years that lead us to today.
We hope to see you in July!
If you have any question please use the form below to contact us at NAMandaeanConvention@gmail.com