Crossing the Distance

Growing up in a Mennonite village in Russia, young Knals Plett became a man of sincerity and conviction – and stubbornness. When hidden bitterness drove him to commit a terrible deed, his stubborn will separated him from God, church, and family until he repented.
An older and wiser Knals, now a leader in his community, led the way across another distance when the church faced political pressure. Along with many others, Knals’ family made the long journey to Canada in 1875.
Settled in Canada, Knals faced the most difficult divide of all. When his son left his father’s church for another group, Knals was merciless. For years his heart ached and his son suffered, but Knals would not yield.
Then one frigid winter morning, an elderly Knals learned his son was stricken with typhoid. Knals was smitten by grief and guilt. Could he cross the chasm he had created? His son was dying on the other side.
Based on historical accounts, Crossing the Distance is a story of great distances and a man who faced them. It offers hope that, by God’s grace, we also can cross divides in our lives.