Issuu

The Messenger

50 years of educating the EMC

Volume 50 No. 5 May 2012

p. 8

Also inside: What do we have to do? p. 6 The most famous ship in history p. 12 1985 Ministerial statements on creation p. 15 INSERT

EMC Annual Report 2012

Editorials

Much for which to be thankful

he Convention insert enclosed with this issue attempts to highlight the EM Conference’s work in many ministries in Canada and within many countries. It’s a mixture of stories, photos, and reports. Our conference has 7,800 people gathered in worship services; 7,200 members; two national bodies (ministerial and conference council); five national boards; and 62 churches in nine regions and five provinces. It has cross-cultural workers in about two dozen countries, and engages in many ministries. It is connected with many other parts of Christ’s Church in affiliate

We together are a small part of God’s people who consciously pool our faith, time, efforts and treasure for a greater good.

organizations and formal partnerships. Though our conference is small, much is happening. You have a right to know this, and the insert is designed to help explain it. In July we gather to discuss, discern, and decide together. Sadly, some churches do not send delegates to our national ministerial or conference council meetings. If anything is a self-fulfilling prophecy on how to weaken a conference or to feel separate from it, this is it. The convention insert, however, is written with a clear, grateful awareness of how we together are a small part of God’s people who consciously pool our faith, time, efforts, and treasure for a greater good. It has stories of God’s providence, the efforts of his people, and the presence of his grace. We have much for which to be thankful. – Terry M. Smith

••

Creation, education, and 1985

ur EMC discussion on creation is not new, and to look at the past is instructive. Earlier, the General Board appointed a committee that produced two papers that were discussed by our national ministerial in February 1985. In May 1985 the ministerial formally approved two summary statements: The Literary Nature of Genesis 1–11 and Guidelines for Developing a Doctrine of Creation (reprinted on page 15). The Guidelines said it would “only set forth essential aspects.” They do not mention the date of creation, the age of the earth, the length of a day, or the process God used in creating. The statements display clear convictions: the Bible is the Word of God, creation is God’s act, revelation occurred in history, and we are sinners in need. They uphold “actual events and personalities (e.g., Adam and Eve)” and see Scripture describing “an actual world, actual man, actual revelational communication with

2 The Messenger • May 2012

[The Guidelines] do not mention the date of creation...or the process God used in creating.

man, actual sin in space and time.” When Christians are uncomfortable with being told there is only one approach to science, or only one way to interpret the creation account that honours it as God’s Word, they can face a crisis of faith. They need a more helpful response, and help was offered in 1985. Given that our Statement of Faith’s article on Creation and the ministerial-approved statements of 1985 provide boundaries and freedom, we can reflect both within our Christian education. Ray Hill was asked for his reflections and, years later, finally consented. Why did he? Knowing his own journey, he desires to assist university students grappling with Scripture and science. Let us respect him and each other. – Terry M. Smith

Table of Contents Features

Departments

Editorials

Pontius’ Puddle

What do we have to do?

What are we passionate about? – Richard Klassen

Education and the EMC Bicentennial feature – Michael C. Zwaagstra

12 The most famous ship in history Is it the Titanic? Noah’s Ark? – David Kruse

15 Ministerial statements on creation Reprinted from August 9, 1985

page

4 Letters 18 With Our Missionaries 22 With Our Churches 22 Births 22 Weddings 27 News 32 Calendar 33 Shoulder Tapping

Columns page

16 Archives Alcove

When Anabaptists move beyond ‘memorial’ – Terry M. Smith

17 Window on Missions

Let’s avoid an unnecessary war – Tim Dyck

31 Writings Shared

Waging Peace: Muslim and Christian Alternatives; Go to Church, Save the World: Christian Community as Calling; and Teaching that Transforms: Why Anabaptist-Mennonite Teaching Matters

34 Pictures of God

Don’t mind the mess – Joanna Enns

page

35 Stewardship Today

Learning generosity – Dori Zerbe Cornelsen

36 Kids’ Corner

What’s important about colour? – Loreena Thiessen

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 3

The Messenger Volume 50 No. 5 May 2012

EDITOR TERRY M. SMITH

ASSISTANT EDITOR REBECCA ROMAN

Submissions to The Messenger should be sent to messenger@emconf.ca. The Messenger is the monthly publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. It is available to the general public. Its purpose is to inform concerning events and activities in the denomination, instruct in godliness and victorious living, inspire to earnestly contend for the faith. Letters, articles, photos and poems are welcomed. Unpublished material is not returned except by request. Views and opinions of writers are their own and do not necessarily represent the position of the Conference or the editors. Advertising and inserts should not be considered to carry editorial endorsement. The Messenger is published by the EMC Board of Church Ministries, 440 Main St, Steinbach, Man., and is a member of Meetinghouse and Canadian Church Press. Subscription rates 1 year $24 ($30 U.S., $45 foreign) 2 years $44 ($55 U.S., $85 foreign) 3 years $65 ($82 U.S., $125 foreign) Manitoba residents add 7% PST. Digital only subscriptions: $15 per year. Single copy price: $2 Subscriptions are voluntary and optional to people within or outside of the EMC. Subscriptions are purchased by the Conference for members and adherents. Change of address and subscriptions Undelivered copies, change of address and new subscriptions should be addressed to: 440 Main St, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 Phone: 204-326-6401 Fax: 204-326-1613 E-mail: messenger@emconf.ca www.emconference.ca/messenger Second-class postage paid at Steinbach, Manitoba. ISSN: 0701-3299 Publications Mail Agreement Number: 40017362 We gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage for our publishing activities. Advertising The Messenger does not sell advertising, but provides free space (classified and display) to enhance our Conference, its churches, boards, and ministries; inter-Mennonite agencies and educational institutions; and the wider church. Ads and inquiries should be sent to messenger@emconf.ca. THE Messenger schedule: No. 6 – June 2012 issue (copy due May 18)

4 The Messenger • May 2012

Letters Thanks for the encouragement

I write presuming to speak for EMC students pursuing a career in science. While there are more ways to explain the creation story than the one described by Ray Hill, his perspective encourages curious scientists to plunge into their work, learning and gasping at the world God has made. Science generally does not ask first whether a theory is true; it puts the theory to work to see if it is useful in generating interesting questions and new research, leading to new knowledge. This is on the premise that illusions don’t work in the real world for long (a fairly Christian assumption). Whether evolution is ultimately confirmed to be beyond dispute or not, the vast majority of scientists around the world for the last 150 years have happily used it to generate the amazing new knowledge and discoveries that we all applaud science for giving us in the modern world. Let us not get into the devious practice of telling our EMC scientists what they are allowed to see under their microscopes. Neither should theologians be imposed upon by scientists on how to read scriptures. But sometimes if we allow both their integrity for a while, a new synthesis can emerge. The perspective Ray describes is both biblically sound and scientifically productive. Thanks to The Messenger for this encouragement of our university students. – Layton Friesen Winnipeg, Man.

A shocking fallacy

I am a 17-year-old student, and I was very disturbed when I read both of the articles by Ray Hill. It is shocking that fallacy like this is being considered in our conference. This is false doctrine and will lead many people astray from the truth. How? When you doubt one part of the

Bible, why not any other part? That teaches us to compromise our faith. Many parts of the Bible can’t be “scientifically proven.” What about the donkey speaking to Balaam? Or when the sun stood still for a whole day for Joshua (Joshua 10)? The death and resurrection of Jesus can’t be proven either, but we have faith and believe. Hebrews 11:1 says, “Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” We need to believe that the creation account is literal and have faith in God, pursuing the truth. After all, God wrote the Bible. 2 Timothy 3:16 says that, “All Scripture is breathed out by God,” and Jesus said in John 5:46-47, “For if you believed Moses, you would believe me; for he wrote of me. But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe my words?” Mixing evolution into the creation account is enormously far from the truth. And the truth is what should be taught. Not evolution. This is something that is taught in public schools and has no place in our churches. “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth” (John 17:17). – Nicole Siemens Morris, Man.

Just wondering

I was just wondering about the first two days of creation, where Genesis talks about the evening and the morning. We define our evening and morning by the sun. How can the evening and morning be literal events if the sun was only created on the third day? I also wonder about the day being twenty-four hours of our time. Is not the term “day” and “night” defined in terms of our relation to the sun? Just wondering.... – Wayne Penner Courtenay, BC

Letters God has told us

Creation is a miracle. Noah’s flood was a miracle. The resurrection of Christ was a miracle. Science does not deal well with the concept of miracles. We must choose between theories of secular science and God’s word when it comes to origins. Unfortunately, many Christians have fallen for the theories of secular science regarding origins when the only one who was there in the beginning, God, left His Word with us describing what He did. The genealogies of the Bible, of course, don’t work in the evolutionary model, so they are dismissed. Again, Mr. Hill’s article implies that God’s word cannot be trusted. The article states that God would not use misleading methods in creation and since light from stars appear billions of years old; God would not have created the stars and the light recently. Using that line of thought, did Jesus really feed five thousand with only two fish and five loaves of bread? Was Jesus ill-informed when he quoted Genesis? Noah’s flood does not work under an old earth theory because what creationists see as examples of catastrophic destruction caused by Noah’s flood is used by old earth evolutionists as proof for billions of years of slow deterioration. That also means death before the fall. But, then again, many Christians don’t believe in the fall in the Garden of Eden any more. Are we still waiting for a day of judgment and a miracle of a new heaven and new earth, or have we given up on that? – Richard Friesen Lethbridge, Alta.

Respect and responsibility

Thank you for publishing the creation articles. I was not surprised by responses from individuals who subscribe to a 24-hour day interpretation

of Genesis. While I do not think that is the most plausible understanding of the text, I appreciate that many do think so, and I welcome that voice in a discussion that maintains mutual respect and scholarly responsibility. I was perturbed by the insistence that anything other than a 24-hour day was a betrayal of the authority of scripture. I am deeply troubled by the propensity to conflate the authority of an interpretation with the authority of scripture itself. I understand a deeply passionate defense of scripture and faith. In fact, I endorse such passion, but I am concerned about the shape of that passion. To my mind, casting any alternative understanding of the creation story as an attack on the core of our faith is a gross overstatement, and it flies in the face of the words of Jesus, who clearly told us that the core of our faith is summed up in two commandments: Love God with all of your being, and love your neighbour as yourself. I submit that any dialogue or action that is not conspicuously characterized by these two core values is itself a greater betrayal of the core of our faith. This does not mean we can never disagree, but it does provide clear guidelines for how such disagreement should be negotiated. – Henry Friesen Arborg, Man. Editor’s note: Dr. Emil Silvestru, a scientist and creationist, agreed in March to write one or two lead articles, though he says he is busy. The date of publication is unknown.

Be inclusive, not exclusive

This year is the EMC’s 200th anniversary. We at our church started last Sunday with a history of the culture of the people that were the beginning of this conference.

I find this mildly interesting, but I question why it is so important to the church. We all have culture and heritage that is important to us. This culture varies from person to person, and everyone should understand where they come from and their past. I am of mixed heritage, and I see myself as Canadian. I also have a mixed Christian religious heritage of Protestant and Anabaptist. I celebrate all these parts that make me who I am. The most important of all of these is I put my faith in Jesus Christ. He wants us to worship in spirit and in truth, not in a religious or cultural heritage. As we celebrate this year it would better and more inclusive to serve Jesus by celebrating the many people of varying cultural and religious backgrounds who worship together and call themselves Evangelical Mennonites. When we focus on one culture and religious heritage we become exclusive and it goes against the Evangelical of our name. If we are going to survive another 200 years it will be because we embrace and accept people of other cultural and religious heritages who want to come together and put their faith in Jesus Christ as their only hope of salvation and having a right relationship with God. – Tim Moore MacGregor, Man.

Guidelines for letters

Letters published are generally to comment on issues raised in The Messenger. The magazine reserves the right to edit letters for length, style, legality, and taste. Letters to the editor should be 250 words or less.

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 5

What do we

have S to do? by Richard Klassen,

DESIGNPICS.COM

EMC moderator

6 The Messenger • May 2012

“For necessity is laid upon me.

ome German-speaking Mennonite friends have told me that they have sometimes been accused by others of being “äwaje’schote” (over-shot). It’s not easily translated directly, but it’s meaning is that they are fanatics. They have gone too far with their Christian faith. I can’t remember ever being accused of such a thing. But I have sometimes pondered these words of Paul. Just how passionate do we need to be? This is our 200th Anniversary, and that is a great achievement. Looking back one can see some examples of our spiritual forebears showing great passion as they lived out their faith: Klaas Reimer and his peers, 200 years ago, must have felt a great urgency to finally proceed with breaking away from the larger group, knowing well that it would cost a great price to do so. One can well imagine the alienation, rejection, gossip, and so forth this group suffered. But their vision was for a church that was biblically sound and one that lived by its truths, and so they forged ahead. In their passion for God they made a big change. My great-great-grandfather David Klassen and Cornelius Toews, and the rest of the group living in Russia in 1874, must have also felt a strong drive to do what they did—picking up everything and moving to a new country. Whether or not we would agree that the right thing for a church to do is to relocate under difficult circumstances, we do recognize that these leaders saw the need to be urgent, and they brought about what they felt was God’s will for them at the time. More recently, in the middle of the last century, we can see passion in the leaders who led in morphing the Kleine Gemeinde into the present day EMC. That generation, of which we basically have the tail end left with us today, had a vision and they went for it. We think of leaders like Ben D. Reimer, Archie Penner, Corny F. Dueck, and many others. They did their tasks with zeal and determination. While they used tactics and aggressiveness we might not all feel very comfortable with today, their passion was

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Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!” (1 Corinthians 9:16).

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never in question. One of them who spent some time in our area is rumoured to have sometimes made up to 15 house visitations in a day.

Passion today

Eugene Peterson, in his book Working the Angles, calls American pastors today “shopkeepers.” He means it in the sense of churches becoming businesses instead of spiritual centres. But I was thinking of it also in the sense of leaving the vision and being occupied with lesser things. At times it does feel that that is all we are— content to keep going as we are, year after year. Where is our passion? What is our passion? Paul had to preach the gospel. Klaas Reimer had to follow his vision for a different church. David Klassen had to move his flock to a place of freedom. The previous generation had to follow Christ’s call to reach those without Christ. What is the task we have to perform? It is easy to go into a defensive mode in church life. Probably we have all experienced this in our churches. Just seeking to put out fires and mend fences. As a conference we can be involved in a lot of good things—trying to meet the budget, seeking to build unity, trying to stay biblically on the straight and narrow, having interesting conventions, and many other vital kingdom affairs. But what will “light our fire” (the theme from Convention 2008)? What will drive us with the passion Paul reveals in these verses?

When passion gets dampened

There is much in our generation that dampens our passion—pluralism, relativism, playing computer games by the hour, being overly zealous for balance, our supposedly inherent right to rest and relaxation, sin, and a host of other matters. It is hard to be on fire for anything because—as any blogger knows—any idea today can and will be shot down immediately. How can we have this Pauline passion? Can we develop it within us? Can we just try a little harder? When I look at the examples I gave earlier, I do not believe that they set out to develop

passion for their cause. Rather the passion came from their commitment to Christ. Eugene Peterson, in talking about what a pastor’s job is, also points to where our focus should be: The biblical fact is that there are no successful churches. There are, instead, communities of sinners, gathered before God week after week in towns and villages all over the world. The Holy Spirit gathers them and does his work in them. In these communities of sinners, one of the sinners is called pastor and given a designated responsibility in the community. The pastor’s responsibility is to keep the community attentive to God. It is this responsibility that is being abandoned in spades (Working the Angles, 2, emphasis mine).

As a conference we can be involved in a lot of good things. But what will “light our fire”? What will drive us with the passion Paul reveals in these verses?

Paul, in Philippians 3, talks about the source of his passion: to know Christ and the power of his resurrection. I don’t know exactly what all that means, but I think it has to do with keeping our eyes or focus on him. It is probably not all that complicated. It means not allowing the smaller things to dominate my thoughts and my agenda. I try regularly to come to Christ in prayer and tell him that I don’t know how to do my work and I am not strong or smart enough to do it myself; but I tell him that I am available to do whatever he sets before me, and I want to lean on him as I do it. When I actually do that it has been amazing what he can do. May we as a conference learn to do that together! Not every generation will have the same major task to perform the way our predecessors did. We are probably not called to form a new conference, or move all our people to another country, or even to transform our conference into a radically different one. But then again, maybe we are. As we look to the future our first step is not to look for the particular task, but to renew our resolve and commitment to keep our eyes 

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 7

EDUCATION

 focused on our Lord. We want to be

faithful followers of Jesus and the Word of God. Before we can serve God with passion, we must love God with passion. A good exercise for us might well be to sit and meditate on God and him alone for an hour or two. When we are mindful of him as Creator, as Lover, as Redeemer, as Saviour, and as Lord it cannot leave us unmoved. My prayer is that in 2012 and beyond we as the EMC will be able to concentrate on that which we have to do; woe is us if we “preach not the gospel.”

Before we can serve God with passion, we must love God with passion.

Richard Klassen (Straffordville) is the moderator of the EMC. This article is based on a devotional presented at the All Boards’ Visioning Day on February 11, 2012.

Celebrate 200 years with us!

“

And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when

rowing

you sit in your house, and when you

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in him

emc 1812 ~ 2012

Co los

sia

2:6 –7

walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.

EMC Convention 2012 www.emconference.ca

convention poster2.indd 1

8 The Messenger • May 2012

”

Deuteronomy 6:6–7

July 6, 7, 8 Providence University College Otterburne, Manitoba

12-03-23 12:16 PM

AND THE EMC

After the formation of the Kleine Gemeinde (KG) in 1812, church members continued with

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The early years

the existing educational tradition in which children attended village schools. In fact, schooling was compulsory for boys and girls. A key reason behind this emphasis on education was the belief that everyone should be able to read the Bible. Thus, the Bible served as the main textbook in schools. In 1833, KG minister Heinrich Balzer wrote a treatise on education called Faith and Reason. He argued that the purpose of elementary schools was not to prepare children for higher education or help them be successful in business. Rather, schools should prepare students for a life of piety and reverence for God. Balzer viewed farming as the ideal profession for KG members. This emphasis on simplicity led Balzer to criticize higher education and say it “brings forth nothing but sophistry, unbelief, and 

s the passage makes clear, Christians have a solemn duty to educate their children. It is through education that children learn the gospel, develop moral values, and acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to function in society. While parents bear primary responsibility for their children’s education, other community members such as church leaders, teachers, and employers play important roles. The history of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference reveals a group of believers who hold diverse views about what proper education should look like. As we continue to grow in understanding and learn together in community, a renewed focus on education can be discerned.

DESIGNPICS.COM

by Michael C. Zwaagstra

emc 1812 ~ 2012

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 9

Emphasis on personal evangelism and missionary work gradually led to a recognition that KG members had to actively involve themselves in the secular world, including in higher education.  corruption of the church.” So while Balzer af-

firmed the importance of elementary education in providing children with a solid academic foundation, he warned against acquiring too much education lest knowledge cause students to become puffed up with pride. When German-speaking Mennonites began coming to Canada in 1874, they continued with their existing educational practice. The KG registered their village schools as district schools that made them eligible for government operational grants. However, the schools’ administration remained under the control of the church. In addition, the KG continued to view higher education with suspicion.

Higher education gains a foothold

DESIGNPICS.COM

As time went on, however, KG leaders began to acknowledge the need for some members to acquire higher education, at least in practical fields such as teaching and nursing. Men and women who were considered spiritually strong were permitted to complete teacher certification programs or become registered nurses. Maintaining control over their village schools was a key reason for allowing some members to acquire a higher education. Thus, higher education became seen as a means to an end. This openness to higher education did not immediately extend to Bible schools. KG leaders expressed concern that their members could be led astray and strongly discouraged their members from attending them. This meant that for a long time, virtually no one in the KG had formal theological training. In 1937, two young KG men, Ben D. Reimer and Archie Penner, decided to attend Winnipeg Bible Institute (WBI). KG ministers responded with disbelief and did everything they could to discourage them. Because WBI

10 The Messenger • May 2012

was interdenominational, KG ministers were concerned these two men would be corrupted by strange doctrines. Despite this pressure, Reimer and Penner attended WBI. Not only did they persevere in their studies, they spent much of their careers immersed in higher education—Reimer as principal of Steinbach Bible Institute and Penner as a Bible college professor at several post-secondary institutions.

More acceptance of higher education

Steinbach Bible School, now Steinbach Bible College, came into existence in 1936 without KG support. However, Mennonite Brethren influence declined shortly after its founding and KG influence soon took its place. The KG’s influence became more pronounced when KG minister Ben D. Reimer became principal in 1945 and served in that position for approximately two decades. During this time, the KG church was moving away from its former isolationist views. One example of this was how, under Ben D. Reimer’s leadership, the Western Gospel Mission established new churches throughout Western Canada. This emphasis on personal evangelism and missionary work gradually led to a recognition that KG members had to actively involve themselves in the secular world, including in higher education. In 1952, the denomination formally changed its name to Evangelical Mennonite Church and to Evangelical Mennonite Conference in 1959. In 1960, EMC’s executive committee formally proposed that SBC be placed directly under EMC administration. The offer was a serious one, as shown by EMC’s willingness to reimburse college donors from other conferences. While the SBC board gave the offer serious consideration, they ultimately elected to remain an interdenominational school. Instead, SBC restructured its board so that it consisted of

Although most EMC churches were initially established in rural locations, there is a growing need to establish more churches in urban centres. The most recent Canadian census confirmed that our country continues on the trend towards greater urbanization. More than 80 percent of Canadians currently live in urban centres with 10,000 people or more. Along with this urbanization comes a society that expects its spiritual leaders, especially pastors, to have a higher level of education than in the past. In this regard, we need to consider the example of the Apostle Paul. As we read in Acts 17, when Paul went to preach to the Greeks in Athens, he knew the importance of being familiar with their culture and beliefs. During his time with the Greeks, he referred to one of their gods, quoted a Greek poet, and carefully explained the characteristics of the true God in language they could understand. Paul could not have done this without extensive familiarity with Greek culture and literature. In this, he clearly benefited from his previous Pharisaic training. To the Jews I become as a Jew, in order to win Jews. To those under the law I become as one under the law (though not being myself under the law) that I might win those under the law. To those outside the law I become as one outside the law (not being outside the law of God but under the law of Christ) that I might win those outside the law. To the weak I become weak, that

Michael C. Zwaagstra, BEd, PBCE, MEd (University of Manitoba) is a high school teacher, city councilor, adult Sunday School teacher at Evangelical Fellowship Church (in Steinbach, Man.) and co-author of the book, What’s Wrong With Our Schools and How We Can Fix Them (Rowman and Littlefield Education, 2010). Sources: Seeking to be Faithful: The Story of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference by Harvey Plett; Training Servant Leaders: A History of Steinbach Bible College by Jerry Hildebrand; One Who Dared: Life Story of Ben D. Reimer by Doreen Peters; Contending for the Faith: A Biography of Dr. Archie Penner by Mary Blondina Barkman; and Saints and Sinners: The Kleine Gemeinde in Imperial Russia 1812 to 1875 by Delbert F. Plett.

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EA RS

It is difficult to imagine how we can effectively follow Paul’s example of becoming all things to all people if we lack formal education.

It is difficult to imagine how we can effectively follow Paul’s example of becoming all things to all people if we lack formal education. For our conference to remain relevant in the 21st century, we must embrace education at all levels. Hopefully our Conference will become known as one in which education is increasingly valued. While it is important to prevent our young people from being led astray at college or university, wholesale avoidance of higher education would be an unfortunate overreaction. We must reach all people for Christ, including the well-educated. To do this, we need more of our members to be well-educated themselves.

Why education is important

I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some (1 Corinthians 9:20–22).

representatives from several denominations, including the EMC. That relationship continues to this day.

Quarterly Financial Report

emc 1812 ~ 2012

Receipts and Transfers Disbursements Excess/Shortfall

Jan–Mar Jan–Mar 2012 2011 279,893 321,520 437,708 444,228 -157,815 -122,708 – Board of Trustees

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 11

The most famous

ship in history by David Kruse

What is the most famous ship in history? Does the Titanic come to mind?

12â€‚ The Messenger â€˘ May 2012

he 100th-year anniversary of its sinking occurred recently, and the Titanic has remained in our memory for a few reasons. One was its ambition: it was the biggest, most luxurious ship ever built to that point. It’s also memorable for its arrogance: it was reportedly claimed that “not even God could sink it.” Perhaps too eager to show off its speed, the captain ignored warnings about icebergs in the area. When they struck one, the crew’s response was not immediate, so confident were they in the design of its watertight compartments. But mostly the Titanic is memorable for its tragic loss: so many people could have been saved had people been faithful with their duties and had there been enough lifeboats. The Titanic has stuck in our memory as the “bad news” boat. But the Titanic is not the most famous ship in history.

Noah’s Ark

I think a case could be made that it is Noah’s Ark. If you grew up in Sunday School, you heard about it rather early. If you grew up outside the Church, you still probably heard about it. In fact, there are Great Flood accounts from other cultures, so it is a story told around the world since ancient times. It is still a theme in kids’ wallpaper and toys. Like the Titanic, Noah’s Ark has stuck in our memory, but it is the “good news” boat. It is the ark of salvation, the boat that saves the animals and a few good people. Titanic and Noah’s Ark both promised security, but only one succeeded; only one was able to preserve its passengers. But I don’t think that Noah’s Ark is the most famous ship in history, either. I think the most famous ship in history is seldom considered a ship. Let me explain. The Latin word for ship is navis. From this we get ship-related words like navy and navigation. Another one is nave. (Not knave. That’s what the dishonest scoundrels are called in medieval stories.) The nave is the part of a building that looks like the bottom of a ship turned upside down. The buildings that most often contain a nave are Gothic cathedrals: church buildings.

The nave is the main area for the congregation. Most obviously in cathedrals, the ceiling is shaped like the underside of a boat, the hull of a ship.

The Church

The most famous ship in history, though seldom thought of that way, is the Church. The Church is a ship? Yes; not in shape, but in function. In 1 Peter 3:20 we read “…God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved….” From Peter, we have a tradition in the Church that Noah’s Ark is a symbol of rescue. It was God’s vehicle for salvation, God’s method of preserving people. “[Since] those outside of Noah’s Ark were destroyed, the ship became a perfect early symbol of the Church” (fisheaters.com/symbols.html). Another image for the Church is “the [boat] of Peter, the Fisherman” (fisheaters.com/ symbols.html). Peter’s boat is God’s vehicle for salvation. Before you start thinking salvation is all about the Church, let’s remember that Peter—in his real boat in the real storm—was saved not by his boat, but by the presence and power of Jesus in his boat. Jesus, who calmed the sea, is the Saviour. But, as an image, the boat is still helpful as we think about the Church; Jesus just has to be in it. If the Church is pictured as a ship, and if the Church has spread through all the earth for two thousand years, then we could say the Church is the most famous ship in history.

If the Church is pictured as a ship, and if the Church has spread through all the earth for two thousand years, then we could say the Church is the most famous ship in history.

Good news or bad news?

Is the Church a “bad news” ship or a “good news” ship? Both! It’s a bad news ship because its message includes hard truth about ourselves and our destiny we don’t always want to hear. It’s also a ship with problems; sometimes the Church seems barely sea-worthy. But it’s also a good news ship that carries the message of rescue and hope. Despite human weakness, the Church goes on because the Spirit of Jesus empowers the Church. Not even the gates of death can stop the ship Jesus is building for the salvation of the world:  www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 13

Jesus has established the Church and provided it to the world, not to show off like the Titanic, but to be like one of Titanic’s lifeboats.

 a Church whose function is to bring salvation.

Now let’s return to the Titanic’s lessons for us.

Which list are you on?

The story is told that after the Titanic sank, the people back home came down to the docks to read the lists. Family members checked the two charts. Each day, employees of the White Star Line would update them. One sign said “Saved,” the other “Lost.” On which list would they find their loved one’s name? The book of Revelation gives us a similar picture of how things will be after the world “sinks”: Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it… And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books. The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them, and each person was judged according to what they had done… Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire (Revelation 20:11–13, 15 NIV).

The Church is made up of those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life. Which list are you on?

Coming to select churches in Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta, May 19 to June 4.

For details on dates and locations call the Rio Grande Bible Institute Canada office at 204-254-3639 or go on-line to http://riogrande.edu/English/ SummerUSAConcerts.html.

14 The Messenger • May 2012

God’s ship for salvation

Jesus has established the Church and provided it to the world, not to show off like the Titanic, but to be like one of Titanic’s lifeboats. Because the Church is God’s ship for salvation:  Don’t leave it; don’t quit. Stick with the Church even when it disappoints. Contribute to its health.  Celebrate its life and growth: baptisms, or any time we see each other pursuing God.  Invite others to it. God speaks through the scripture taught in the Church, and through the love demonstrated in relationships.  Work for others’ good. “There is no greater love than to lay down your life for another,” Jesus said. On board Titanic there were glimpses of this. Some passengers let others get onto the lifeboats first. The engineers kept at their work so the electricity would stay on for a reassuring glimmer of light and to let the lifeboat winches go down. The band kept playing; perhaps a futile attempt at cheer in the face of doom, but also an act of encouragement. Reportedly, the last song they played was “Nearer, My God, to Thee.”

Humbly get in the boat

How can we get “nearer, my God, to Thee”? Start with humility. If you’re too proud to admit you need God, the Titanic may be a metaphor for your life: headed for danger but unwilling to heed the warnings. Humbly climb on board God’s Ark. Jesus has provided us his lifeboat, the Church, God’s ship for salvation. David Kruse, BA (WBC, now Providence), MA (CMU), serves Tammy as husband, five children as father, and MacGregor EM Church as pastor.

Reprinted from The Messenger, August 9, 1985

Creation On Genesis 1–11

In response to questions raised in our Conference concerning a Biblical view of creation, the General Board appointed a committee to draft two papers on this issue. One paper outlined a position on the literary nature of Genesis 1–11. A second paper outlined various models of creation, as advocated by various scholars, without identifying any particular model or models as best reflecting the position taken in the first paper. These were presented at the February 2, 1985 EMC Conference ministerial meeting. Following group and general discussion, the ministerial requested that these papers be summarized and that these abstracts be presented at the May 4 ministerial meeting. At that meeting these statements were reviewed and approved as expressing what the ministerial understood concerning creation. Copies of these statements have also been given to all the local church delegates. They are presented here to inform our congregations in general as to the theological direction taken by our Conference on this question. If people wish, they may obtain the full-length papers from our Conference office.

The Literary Nature of Genesis 1–11

Genesis 1–11 should be seen as revealed truth. The term “myth” cannot be properly be used of this literature because the meaning of this term is currently ambiguous and because the New Testament always uses the word as a pagan category, as the complete opposite of revealed truth. The material seems to be designed to be understood as factual information; there are many features that would be unnecessary and superfluous if it was not intended to represent real people and real events that happened in space and time. New Testament references or allusions to Genesis 1–11 indicate that this source deals with actual events and personalities (e.g., Adam and Eve), and we accept the New Testament as authoritative for our view of the Old Testament. It has to be assumed that the author of Genesis was informed by God’s revelation of the nature of the creation of the world, of the origin of mankind, of the beginning of human sin, and of God’s early actions of judgement, forgiveness, and redemption, and then stated them in the concepts and language of his time. This position does not mean, however, that everything in the primeval prologue has to be understood in a narrow, literal sense. The purpose of Biblical interpretation always

is to discover the meaning which the writer intended to communicate. And this requires that the interpreter must take into account any figurative language found in the text.

Guidelines for Developing a Doctrine of Creation

This statement will set forth essential aspects of the doctrine of creation, with indicated limits to its meaning and content. Perhaps, it is impossible not to think of a model, or models, of creation. Yet, however necessary this structuring in a Christian’s thought, these are human theological forms of understanding. And theological forms keep on changing. First, since a Biblical doctrine of creation is foundational to orthodox theology, all seriousness must be given to it. Second, this doctrine must take in all facets of the whole Scripture on the subject into consideration, the New Testament must be central to its understanding, and, to put it specifically, it must be Christological to the core. Third, it must be the product of a clear understanding of the meaning and use of the language in which the narrative is written, i.e., cultural aspects, literalness, figurativeness, etc. Fourth, the intents of God’s revelation on creation must be seen; namely, that the narrative, while including the portrayal of events, teaches the sovereignty of God, His ownership of the world, His goodness, His grace and redemption, etc. Fifth, creation must be seen as the decisive act of the triune God, out of His own initiative and impelling love, to bring into actual existence what has never existed before; and while this creation is totally dependent upon Him, it is not a part of Him, though permeated by Him. Sixth, however important human thinking, such as philosophy and science, is for understanding by modern man, these cannot and must not be permitted to determine the doctrine of Creation, for, finally, the Scriptures are a revelation from God. Seventh, while the narrative of Genesis teaches profound theological truth, it is clear that it describes facts and events, although to some extent presented poetically and figuratively. Thus it describes an actual world, actual man, actual revelational communication with man, actual sin in space and time.

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 15

Columns • archives alcove

When Anabaptists move beyond ‘memorial’

DREA

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by Terry M. Smith

hat is an Anabaptist understanding of the Lord’s Supper? Is there only one? The EMC Statement of Faith calls the Lord’s Supper a “commemoration” and “celebration” (p. 10). The EMC Minister’s Manual says the Lord’s Supper is a “memorial service” to be observed “as a remembrance of Christ’s suffering and death” (p. 23). A “memorial” view is often assumed to be proper Anabaptist theology, yet might it, more accurately, be considered proper Reformed theology? Swiss Reformed leader Ulrich Zwingli held it—as evidently did some of his students who later became Anabaptists. Evangelical Anabaptists sometimes think we face a stark choice: either believe the bread and wine become the actual body and blood of Christ (transubstantiation) or hold that the Lord’s Supper is a “memorial.” What do we do, then, with some early Anabaptists whose views formed a third way? The Confession of the Swiss Brethren in Hesse (1578) says the Supper “is a powerful sealing of the saved community of all believers in the Lord Jesus Christ, for just as the bread and wine is received with the mouth, so also the heavenly flesh and blood of Jesus is received spiritually, by faith, in the believing soul.” Dr. C. Arnold Snyder, an expert in early Anabaptist theology and history, says, “This is no straightforward Zwinglian ‘memorial,’ but is a spiritual communing in

“Because Christ is also spiritually present in the Holy Spirit, [communion] is not merely a symbolic event,” says Dr. John D. Roth. 16 The Messenger • May 2012

the souls of believers” (in Anabaptism Revisited, ed. Walter Klaassen, Herald Press, 1992, 35). Dr. Snyder also refers to Dutch leaders Dirk Philips (d. 1568) and Hans de Ries (d. 1638) as holding to a “spiritual presence” view. Dirk Philips said, “For spiritual food—that is what the body and blood of Christ are—must be spiritually received.” Hans de Ries spoke of the Supper being an act of remembrance, but “the external Supper brings to mind the office and function of Christ in glory, his institution of the spiritual Supper with believing souls, feeding them with truly spiritual food” (pp. 46–47, note 48). Or what of Pilgram Marpeck (d. 1556), another early Anabaptist leader? He opposed Spiritualists who rejected use of the ordinances and differed with Anabaptists who held to a “memorial” view of communion, says Dr. John D. Roth, editor of the Mennonite Quarterly Review. Marpeck held that “when the water, bread, and wine are received with true inward faith— when the Spirit is present in the believer—the ceremony of baptism or communion becomes an external ‘co-witness’ (Mitzuegnis) of the Spirit’s work,” summarizes Roth. “This means that communion is indeed a memorial service—a service of remembering,” says Roth. “To share in communion is to actively recall the suffering and self-emptying of the human Christ. But because Christ is also spiritually present in the Holy Spirit, this is not merely a symbolic event” (Practices: Mennonite Worship and Witness, Herald Press, 2009, 203). The Swiss Brethren in Hesse, Hans de Ries, Dirk Philips, and Pilgram Marpeck saw communion as more than “memorial.” To determine an Anabaptist position, to which early Anabaptists will we listen—and why?

Columns • window on missions

Let’s avoid an unnecessary war accountable. Yet some churches and individuals have made important decisions that affect these agencies and their workers, based on erroneous assumptions. Some have assumed that the agencies are making concessions about the truth of Scripture to avoid offending Muslims. Others might assume that the agencies involved are deliberately trying to mislead readers of the translation. Some have even assumed that the agencies involved no longer believe in the deity of Christ and have become faithless. Based on these faulty assumptions, churches have made decisions to recall workers or remove funding for workers in these agencies. It saddens me to see that many committed Christian workers have been needlessly hurt in the process. The truth is that the people involved are committed to seeing a faithful translation of the Word of God that accurately and clearly presents biblical truths that will lead people to faith in Jesus Christ. So what is an appropriate response? First, let’s agree not to assume the worst of others. Signing a petition does not generate trust and should be avoided. Second, let’s call for a respected international Christian organization to review the matter and offer an outside perspective. Thankfully, the World Evangelical Alliance has agreed to do exactly that. Third, let’s not overreact by making decisions that will negatively affect the organizations or their workers. EMC has dedicated workers in both of these agencies who need our support more than ever. Like the story above, let’s avoid an unnecessary war and bless the Lord instead. DESIGNPICS.COM

here’s a great story in Joshua about the tribes of Israel that return to their homes east of the Jordan River after helping to settle the land in the west. On their way home, they stop to build an altar right beside the river at Geliloth. When the other Israelite tribes hear of this, they immediately muster their troops for war against their fellow Israelites. Their zeal for maintaining the purity of the nation is commendable. There’s just one problem with their response; they are basing their actions on a set of assumptions that are incorrect. They assume that the eastern tribes have broken faith with God and are acting in open rebellion to God by building the altar. In fact, the tribes have built the altar as an everlasting remembrance of the bond that they share with their brothers west of the river. Their explanation is received well; a war is averted; the Lord is praised; and the altar remains as a witness among the Israelites. How often have you seen a similar situation, where faulty assumptions result in conflict, sometimes with extremely damaging results? There is a petition circulating on the web that has similarities to this story. According to this petition, Wycliffe/SIL and Frontiers are accused of producing a translation of the Bible that uses inappropriate terms to describe the Father/Son relationship between God and Jesus. The matter of the terms used in this translation is a legitimate concern, and the organizations behind the translation should be

by Tim Dyck

It saddens me to see that many committed Christian workers have been needlessly hurt.

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 17

With Our Missionaries

When God squishes out the sides WINNIPEG

These days I am holding my definition of success in ministry a little looser than in years gone by. In 1986 I was attending Briercrest Bible College learning proper theology. Back then proper theology had to do with creating boxes, sometimes airtight and waterproof. You had to build them that way or God, the subject of our theological wanderings, may squish out the sides or leak on our clean white paper upon which pen strokes hoped to contain the whole of Him. In the middle of my studies I got interrupted with an assignment to walk with a teenager who was causing problems in a private boarding school. The idea was that I would help him find God and that he would find change. We hung out and I told him about God and taught him about volleyball. He stole my car, burned a hole in the upholstery with a cigarette, and had teachers concerned that he wasn’t getting it. He was kicked out of high school and went home to live with his parents who were probably disappointed with our failure to reel him in. It was a dismal failure by any measure. Skip ahead 25 years. I find myself standing in a drop-in centre for street kids in Moose Jaw. Sandy and I are just checking out their renovations when I hear a remotely familiar voice. “Kent, Kent Dueck, is that you?” I turn around and there he is. I recognized him, and it was hugs all around. He now works as a ministry leader in the centre where he is influencing hundreds of youths who are just as messed up as he was. His story pours out for me, my wife, and my brother Joe. After laughs about the irony, he smiles hugely and 18 The Messenger • May 2012

pumps a finger back and forth at my chest and says, “Remember, Kent, you used to make me pray for your brother who was doing drugs and getting into trouble. Was that Joe?” It was. A college student, after a failed attempt to change a troubled teen, encounters that person ministering in the drop in along with a previously addicted, now reformed youth minister for whom he had prayed. My daughter Jill, 18, is now volunteering at Joe’s Place in Moose Jaw. She recently returned from a weekend youth retreat. They gave her the toughest group of kids so when we skyped on that Sunday night she was exhausted and emotional. I could tell something was happening inside of her. “Dad,” she said, “I think I found my thing.” Now I am tearing up because I am so proud of her and how well she is turning out. I love that she has caught God’s heart for the poor. The ministry leader and I talked, and he told me he would keep an eye out for her—you know, a little favour in return for the eye I kept on him 25 years ago. – Kent Dueck

J O I N

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DESTINATION | STATE OF JALISCO, MEXICO

The State of Jalisco includes the metropolis of Guadalajara, the second largest city in Mexico with 8 million inhabitants.

PURPOSE

The purpose of the trip is to give team members the opportunity to: »» minister and learn »» create a vision and heart for mission »» grow in discipleship »» serve in the Lord’s work »» bless the missionaries and their families »» assist in outreach and evangelism

AGE BRACKET | 18+

This short-term mission trip is for young adults who are Grade 12 graduates (18 years of age) and older.

TIME FRAME | JUNE 29 TO JULY 20, 2012 This includes orientation, travel, ministry, and debriefing.

COST

$600 plus travel ($600 to $1200, depending from where you fly) *all expenses are tax-receiptable

TEAM LEADERS

The team will work under the leadership of the Ascend Intern, the Project Mac team leader, as well as our field missionaries.

TEAM DYNAMICS

A joint venture of male and female young adults from across the country.

PROGRAM CONTENT

Will include involvement such as our “Kids’ Games” ministries, sports ministries, orphanage and hospital visitation, door-to-door evangelism, prayer walking, ministry programs and much more, to help our missionaries plant a church.

Kent Dueck, raised in Rosenort Fellowship Chapel, is executive director of Inner City Youth Alive in Winnipeg’s north end. He is currently on sabbatical.

APPLICATION DEADLINE | JUNE 1, 2012 Visit www.emconference.ca for details

With Our Missionaries

Praying on-site with insight MEXICO

each member with oil to begin prayer ministry affected him deeply. He had never had this done before, and felt it truly prepared him for ministry. He felt empowered and determined to pray with all his heart. During the last evening’s debriefing we affirmed one another in our gifts and in how each contributed to the week’s ministry. As others spoke encouragement and blessing, Lowell felt empowered and confident in God’s future work in and through him. All agreed this was an unforgettable praise evening, which lasted till midnight. Ruth Penner, Blumenort EMC, enjoyed being billeted and bonding with LeRoy and Faith Siemens. Praying through the Cathedral and feeling the bondage of the people affected her. “A man was wiping his jacket on a statue of a saint. I remember thinking that doing this will not help him; he needs Jesus,” she said. “Also, I’m excited to see what God will do as a result of our prayers. God is awesome!” Doris Friesen, retired missionary, sums it up: “Can one brief week,

We’re back from “praying on-site with insight” in Guadalajara (GDL), Mexico. This year we were six from Canada plus church planting team members John and Connie Reimer, LeRoy and Faith Siemens, and Dallas and Tara Wiebe. We were in GDL from Feb. 20 to 27. One day we all went prayerwalking in the Metro Park, 12 adults and six kids. The kids certainly added their prayers and asked good questions when they got home. Team members (front) Abe Wiebe, Lowell Each of us felt joyfully affected by Froese, Brad Schneck, (back) Flo Friesen, our week of ministry. How? Ruth Penner, and Doris Friesen were in Pastor Brad Schneck and Abe Guadalajara from Feb. 20 to 27. Wiebe came from Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship (EMC). Based on praying on-site with insight, make contact with migrant Mexican worka difference in Kingdom work? I ers, Brad had some concerns. He had believe it is a significant item on God’s an amazing turn around. calendar to bring His Kingdom into He saw scores of joggers and individual lives in Guadalajara. The the city’s cleanliness defied his homes of the missionaries are vital for preconceptions. As Brad entered into this to happen so we prayed for each the culture, God gave him a love for of their homes, room by room. people. Matthew 9:36–38 affected “We asked for God’s cleansing, Brad deeply. protection and bountiful blessings on Abe appreciated hearing each home and the many team leaders pray with paswho’d enter there. God will sion and certainty, and recuse these homes to love ognized that God hears and people into His Kingdom… answers prayers with perfect I sensed an expectancy timing. As well, being there that God’s Kingdom will to encourage and support come into individual lives the missionaries enlightened among those six million him to their specific needs. GDL people.” It was neat to see how each What an incredible team member bonded with week! the EMC team. Wonderful – Flo Friesen new friendships were forged. Lowell Froese, from Flo Friesen (St. Vital/ Leamington EMC, apKleefeld) is active in crosspreciated how “the journey” cultural service. started and ended. Having the team leaders anoint Missionaries and prayer team members had “an incredible week.” www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 19

With Our Missionaries

God was at work long before us MANITOBA

I marvel at the faith stories of families in the North. These faith stories began long before Continental Mission Inc. (now operating as Mid-Way Christian Leadership—see story on p. 28) ever sent “pioneer” missionaries to Northern Manitoba. How great is our God that we are able to hear of Cree families reading the scriptures in syllabics and finding salvation through Jesus. His living Word touched their hearts. I wonder at the stories of trapping families worshiping God, our Creator, and seeking to be the men and women He created us all to be. With their having no written history prior to abrupt contact with foreign culture and disease, we will never know how clearly God had communicated to the original inhabitants of Northern Manitoba.

and Life. We need to accept the place He has prepared for us in the perfect place of God’s presence, heaven. History is only what is recorded, but God has worked in all generations to reach the lost and guide the found. We praise God that He has been working in the North for longer and in more ways than we can ever image. That is what makes us press on. As we seek to mentor and disciple believers in Christ to mature as they and we follow Jesus, we know that God will accomplish His will. We are so blessed for His mercy and grace as sin sometimes creeps into each of our attitudes and lives. Recently when nine teenagers met in Thompson they prayed for each other and their families. They prayed for the adult volunteers aiding the group. They are figuring out what it means to be in the world, but not of it. We are excited to hear of people hearing Fred Evan’s radio broadcast and choosing to follow Jesus. We are excited to add new board members who have grown up in the North and better understand the history of how God has worked in different communities. We praise God that He gives us humility and patience with each other as we partner together doing our best in different ways to serve Him and be a part of His will. Most of all we praise God that He is working in ways we don’t see and many times could not even understand. What an amazing God we serve! – Morgan Serger

We are excited to hear of people hearing Fred Evan’s radio broadcast and choosing to follow Jesus. What we do know is that we all are descended from Noah and his family. We know that the promise given to Eve that one of her descendants would crush the serpent’s head was carried through Noah’s family into the postflood world. Our families became lost as we strayed from God’s truth. Even Abram’s family had to be given special revelation to draw them back to worship our great God. At different times and in different ways God has communicated His will and love for all of us. Our families hear the truth of Jesus’ teaching, sacrifice and death for our sins. We hear of His resurrection and defeat of death as He is the Way, Truth 20 The Messenger • May 2012

Morgan Serger is general director of Mid-Way Christian Leadership (formerly Continental Mission, Inc.).

Participate in EMC’s internship program! (one to two years)

The purpose of this program is to give those who sense the call of God to serve in full-time missions a comprehensive understanding of EMC missions work, to prepare for future service, to work alongside career missionaries, and to give them a context in which to develop their gifts in outreach, leadership, intercession, and discipleship. Ministry assignment Ministries will include: • weekly ministry focus and accountability meetings with missionary team representative, focusing on mentorship and coaching; • assist the missionary team with ministry activities such as outreach, physical work projects, and specific weekly program initiatives; • development of a specific ministry that complements the missionary team’s church-planting efforts; • regular fellowship wtih local believers; • billeting with missionaries and nationals. Participants We are accepting applications for departure in January 2013. Preference will be given to couples/individuals who have been recommended by their home church. Contact Gerald Reimer at 204-326-6401 or greimer@emconf.ca.

With Our Missionaries

Kleefeld youth come to Guadalajara MEXICO

relationships, they will also want to have a relationship with Him. It was not an overtly evangelistic night. The special numbers were Christian songs and we explained them, but for the most part it was a relational evening. One family that we have known since we moved here talked to us afterwards and are interested in starting to study the Bible with us. Another highlight of the week was the Photo Scavenger Hunt we did in the centro (centre) of the city. We split into groups with a list of things to find and pictures to take. This included going into the Catholic Cathedral and seeing different historic statues, as well as the market. Thank you, youth, for coming to share your lives with us. And thank you, parents, for letting your kids come. We loved having them and we’ll be praying for them as they process what they saw and experienced here in Guadalajara. – Tara Wiebe Tara and Dallas Wiebe (Kleefeld) are part of the church planting team in the city of Guadalajara in Jalisco state.

PHOTO: COURTESY KLEEFELD YOUTH GROUP

This March our home church, Kleefeld EMC, sent five leaders and 18 youth to us for a week of missions work. It’s always hard to say exactly how the team felt about the trip, but from our end it was wonderful. It came together so well. The youth had great attitudes when changes happened, and they were willing to help where needed. The last two days of the trip were full of sickness among the group, and it’s hard to put your all into something when you’re sick. But even when they (and we) were not feeling 100 percent, we saw that God gave energy when needed, and we are so thankful for the results of the ministries. We started the week with orientation and then we began prayer walks. Prayer is a large focus of our ministry here in Guadalajara, and it’s something of which we want teams to catch the vision. Starting a missions trip with tons of prayer is so important if

the ministries planned are going to bear fruit. We typically have Kids Games going on in our neighbourhood on Wednesday afternoons, so we continued that with the youth group. The youth were great at making each kid feel special, taking the time to talk with and listen to them. Many of the people here know some English, so it was neat to see people using their limited English and Spanish together in a conversation. A highlight for us was the Dessert Night we put on Friday night. We invited neighbours and friends to come and spend an evening with the youth. The youth did some special numbers, we had prizes to give out, and there was coffee and dessert. We were amazed to see people come out that we didn’t previously know, which was why we had wanted to put on this event. God showed us that there are still people here in our neighbourhood that are willing to have relationships with us; and we pray that, as a result of these

Part of the group went on a prayer walk through the park.

Kleefeld youth assisted with Kids Games.

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 21

With Our Churches MacGregor EMC

MacGregor keeps connected MacGregor, Man. — As we experienced a very mild winter, our summer events don’t feel like they happened too long ago. We had a few get-togethers, as well as potluck lunches after church service, to keep connected over the summer months. One of our biggest events was the commissioning of our new deacon couple, Sheldon and Linda Giesbrecht, in August 2011. We were all very pleased that they accepted this position and they are looking forward to the new experiences ahead of them. We also had a visit from a Christian farmer from Cuba. He spoke to us about the difficulties that Christian farmers face in his country. With new laws and regulations, they are trying to make an honest living while adhering to their Christian and moral beliefs. Once again, we are reminded how lucky we are to be able to follow our Christian worship and values and function in the business world. Our church was also pleased to be the host for a fundraising concert by

the Freedom Singers. MacGregor has been raising money for the community multi-plex, and we were glad that we could contribute to the venue. All of our youth groups and children’s programs started up again with the arrival of the fall season. We were once again happy to host the MacGregor/Gladstone YFC dessert night fundraiser. It always proves to be a very enjoyable evening, and our local youth are able to share information about the projects they have been participating in. In November we were pleased to be able to take part in a few seminars held in our church by Lou Sutera. He rounded out the week by conducting the Sunday sermon. With Christmas approaching, everybody got busy, once again, with filling shoeboxes and planning Christmas celebrations. Our Sunday School classes came up with a unique idea for their Christmas program. This year, they decided to re-create the town of Bethlehem

during the time of Jesus’ birth. This allowed everyone to try to experience what it would have been like to be alive for the most wondrous event that has ever happened. – Kim Bueckert

Births BATCHELOR-KRAHN – to Ryan Batchelor and Joanna Krahn, a daughter, Dahlia Serenity Anne, on Oct. 29, 2011. THIESSEN – to Curtis and Melissa Thiessen of Grande Prairie, Alta., a daughter, Emma Lauren, on Dec. 7, 2011. MORALES – to Edwin and Sarah Morales of Hythe, Alta., a daughter, Sarita Fern Mary Beth, on Feb. 2, 2012. BERG – to Henry and Susie Berg of Monarch, Alta., a daughter, Hailey Jade, on Feb. 10, 2012. WALL – to John and Aggie Wall of Lethbridge, Alta., a daughter, Stacey Mckayla, on Feb. 27, 2012. WIEBE – to Abe and Tina Wiebe of Nobleford, Alta., a daughter, Janessa Ashley, on Feb. 21, 2012.

•• Weddings STUART – BIENART: Cameron Charles, son of Janice and Gordon Stuart, and Christa Ruth, daughter of Ken and Linda Bienart, were married on July 30, 2011, at Westpointe Community Church with Dwight Munn officiating. The couple lives in Grande Prairie, Alta. HEIN – BIENART: Zachari Wade, son of Rocky and Ruby Hein of Grande Prairie, Alta., and Karla Faith, daughter of Ken and Linda Bienart, were married on Oct. 22, 2011, at Westpointe Community Church with Jared Schroeder officiating. The couple lives in Wembley, Alta.

Minister Ray Hill, Val Unrau, new deacon couple Sheldon and Linda Giesbrecht, minister Menno Hamm, pastor David Kruse

22 The Messenger • May 2012

FRIESEN – WARKENTIN: Timothy Wayne, son of Wayne and Audrey Friesen, and Karleigh Janessa, daughter of Lawrence and Joyce Warkentin, were married on Dec. 10, 2011, at Westpointe Community Church with Dwight Munn officiating. The couple lives in Grande Prairie, Alta.

With Our Churches Westpointe Community Church

‘How beautiful are the feet that bring good news!’ Grande Prairie, Alta. — Westpointe Community Church rejoices to see God’s work in and through our congregation. Several members have recently returned from ministering around the world. We were blessed to hear about their journeys and to share in their excitment of what God is doing in other countries. January 10–24, 2012, Kathryn Beinart and Sarah Baker travelled to Haiti to help at God’s Littlest Angels, an orphanage in Petionville. Kathryn writes, “We were each assigned three babies to spend one on one time with them, helping them in their development…and to love them!”

had the opportunity to begin another house due to extra funds provided! From there they travelled to El Salvador and spent a wonderful three days with their sponsored child. They then joined Zach and Karla Hein in Nicaragua for a week before returning home February 14. Zach and Karla served at CINAG, an orphange in Diriamba, for the month of February. They completed some projects to improve the facility, visited local families, and handed out much needed gloves to local workers. Raymond and Eva Wiebe joined them for a time as well. From September 2011 to March 2012, Roxanne Wiebe joined with YWAM. Roxanne writes, “I had the privilege of going to Byron Bay [Australia, for six months]…. The first three months consisted of a lecture phase…. [Then] we did two months

Kathryn Bienart and Sarah Baker served at God’s Littlest Angels in Haiti.

Roxanne Wiebe with an Indonesian boy

Brian and Shelly Peters and Jared and Jen Schroeder, along with their children, went to Honduras January 6–16. Here, they started a cement house, helped with kids club three days a week, and visited a prison, where Pastor Jared shared. They also helped at a medical clinic, fixing equipment, and providing glasses and other medical attention. Schroeders continued their journey after Peters’ departure and

of local outreach where our main focus was reaching the backpackers that came through the area. The last month was spent in Indonesia where our main focus was building relationships with the people. Indonesia was different from anything I have ever experienced before. It was amazing to be a part of a different culture and interesting to see how a different religion operates. It was amazing to see the different ways God works

Peters and Schroeders in Honduras

in and through people. I feel so blessed…I would recommend YWAM to anyone.” Ashley Braun joined Christar from August to November 2011 for a trip to Istanbul, Turkey. Ashley writes, “Turkey was unlike any other place that I had ever been to before. I was the minority in my ethnicity and my religion. I would pray before getting on the bus or before talking to Turks…. One highlight is that I had the privilege of going to a Turkish church. To see them worshipping, praying and preaching in their own language is truly an amazing thing! My time spent and lived with the people there will never be forgotten.” Christ is doing an amazing work; the fields are ripe for the harvest! – Katelyn Tarnowski

Ashley Braun served in Istanbul.

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 23

With Our Churches Rosenort EMC

Passion and compassion in daily living Rosenort, Man. — We’ve been blessed welcoming, shepherding, acting, ushfrom James. Later that evening we with a diverse group of speakers ering, controlling sound, presenting celebrated our unity in Christ with preaching the Word to us in the last music and sharing testimonies of the communion and footwashing with few months including a construction Lord’s unfailing kindness. ministers Don and Scott encouraging worker, a teacher, a factory office This was followed by an enchius as a body. manager, a recent Bible college grad, a lada lunch served by the group. The Kerry and Jo Eidse continued in seed plant foreman, a farmer, a college Church will go on! service with MDS this winter and Ben professor and a radio Bible teacher. Baptism Sunday was quite the day. and Christina Kroeker are keeping Pastor Larry Eidse has many Pastor Larry became quite ill; however, busy with Living Bible Explorers and connections with CSSM and we’ve our assistant pastor Don Dueck caInner City Youth Alive ministries appreciated his colleagues, including pably filled in with youth pastor Scott respectively. Harold Giesbrecht and Bill McCaskell. Dick and led a wonderful, meaningful Our youth have been working Particularly inspiring was McCaskell’s service. Rudy Friesen and Rachel Frithrough a 6 week course on Sexuality sermon emphasizing our call to esen clearly shared their faith stories and the Christian Life. The parents passion and compassion in our daily before being baptised and joining our of the youth have been equipped by mission. Revival in our midst seemed church as members. Alex Loewen Truth Matters teacher Sid Koop in a possibility with his stirring message. preached a challenging message person, as well as Charles Price of the The senior youth People’s church and Josh presented their annual McDowell through video. It morning service, which is fantastic being motivated was thrilling. Recent to do battle together with Bethany grad Michael our kids. Brandt quoted the book of On March 3, a concert Philippians from memory. in our church by Freedom There is amazing power Singers, of Dragon’s Den and truth when God’s Word television fame, was amazstands alone, without added ingly attended despite the interpretation. It is such an terrible roads. The miencouragement to see our raculous story touched our intelligent and gifted young Baptism on February 26, 2012: youth pastor Scott Dick, Rudy hearts. Several Hutterite men and women praying, Friesen, Rachel Friesen, assistant pastor Don Dueck. colonies joined us as well as our youth group. – Lorilee Scharfenberg

SBC HOMECOMING JUNE 9, 2012 BBQ Supper under the tent, Inflatable Bouncer for the Kids, a great chance to reconnect with faculty and classmates Call 1.800.230.8478 to Register

24 The Messenger • May 2012

With Our Churches Community Bible Fellowship

New pastor installed Swan River, Man. — On Sunday, March 25, 2012, Community Bible Fellowship celebrated the official installation of our new pastor, Ron Thiessen. He and his family moved to Swan River in October 2011 from Aylmer, Ont. What a blessing to have this beautiful family shepherd the church and partner with the congregation, ministering in the Swan River community together.

EMC conference pastor Ward Parkinson conducts the installation service.

Ward Parkinson, EMC Conference Pastor, joined the CBF church for the morning service and to lead in the installation of Pastor Ron and his wife Rita. The service was followed with a potluck lunch where all were welcome to enjoy each other’s fellowship. – Tracy Burick

•• Treesbank Community Church

Enjoying special occasions Treesbank, Man.— The year 2012 has proved to be one of changes in Treesbank Community Church. In February we held a baby dedication for Wyatt Degarnes, son of Terry and Natalie. In the month of March we had a baptism for Matthew Street and his sister Michelle Street, as well as membership transfers for Terry Degarnes and Lyndsey Friesen.

Pastor Ron Thiessen, his wife Rita, and their children Myron, Kendra and Jayden.

We have been enjoying all these special occasions with an expanding church family, so it is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to our pastor family. Kenton and Lucille Penner, and their daughters, will be leaving us at the end of June. We wish them all the best as they continue to serve the Lord in Steinbach at the Evangelical Fellowship Church. – Janet Hamilton

Baptism and membership transfer in March: Terry Degarnes, Lyndsey Friesen, pastor Kenton Penner, Matthew Street, and Michelle Street.

We wish [Penners] all the best as they continue to serve the Lord in Steinbach at the Evangelical Fellowship Church.

Terry and Natalie Degarnes with son Wyatt, pastor Kenton Penner

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 25

With Our Churches Heartland Community Church

Youth missions: a counter cultural movement Landmark, Man. — When people are willing to fund and send those who are willing to serve, the Kingdom of God expands. Young people who sacrifice their Spring Break to reach out to those in need inspire us all. Though some youth did not go, they welcomed back their friends with open arms. Serving in the Dominican Republic, Tiffany Froese wrote: I had the opportunity to spend six amazing weeks with Outreach360, an organization committed to creating long-term self-sustainability opportunities by transforming individuals, families, communities, and countries through education. My time was mostly spent teaching English at schools in less privileged communities. I learned a lot about my language, possibly more than the kids did. In the town of Monte Crisiti, O360 has established their own English Institute that provides multiple years of free English education to neighbourhood kids. I spent a lot of time in this particular building, some weeks teaching full days by myself and other

days alongside of large groups. Not having any previous teaching experience, I found my first week in Monte Cristi a challenging one. I was in charge of four 90-minute classes with between 15 and 27 students. It was a long, taxing week, but one with no regrets. The following weeks only became easier as I learned a teaching routine, built friendships with my students, and adjusted to the nonchalant Dominican lifestyle. Working and playing with kids in Monte Cristi taught me about myself, what love really means, the unimportance of possessions, and other values I hope to incorporate. The Dominican Republic had such an impact that I am planning to return with O360 in October for six months. O360’s effects are unmistakably reflected in the communities where they work. I witnessed growth and change firsthand, and one can only begin to imagine what long-term effects will be left behind. Never be afraid to step up, be the change, and release the hero within. Serving in San Marcos, Texas, Sheryl Plett, youth leader, reports: On

Tiffany Froese served for six weeks in the Dominican Republic.

26 The Messenger • May 2012

March 24, a group of 17 from HCC travelled to San Marcos, Texas, for our youth missions trip. Through the Riverstone Community Church, our group worked on three building projects, served supper at the Community Centre, and helped teach the Good News Club at an elementary school. Friendships were made while painting, dry-walling, pouring concrete, and roofing. The highlight of this mission: each youth brought along a $50 “love gift.” The girls purchased a crib and mattress for Samantha’s baby, Chelsea. The guys purchased a fridge for Veronica (grandmother to Chelsea). This will allow them to store milk and veggies. Another love gift was given to the Good News Club. How humbling to realize we were a part of God’s plan. Veronica had prayed for three years for someone to come help her. To see the Holy Spirit use our youth in pouring out His love was amazing. Truly the cycle of poverty is difficult. May we continue to be the hands and feet of Jesus wherever we are! – Brigitte Toews

A group of 17 travelled to San Marcos, Texas.

News

What a way to celebrate 25 years of marriage A service trip turns into a yearly effort LITITZ, Pa. — A week in Jamaica? Hawaii? Perhaps the Galagapos Islands? In 2005, Wilmer and Lorraine Martin were considering a suitable setting for celebrating their 25th-wedding anniversary. They agreed upon a southern locale, to escape northern Pennsylvania’s winter. Reading one day’s mail, Wilmer happened upon a getaway inspiration. Then Lorraine saw it and thought it would be unforgettable. They decided to venture to Pass Christian, Mississippi, which had almost been wiped off the map six months earlier. On August 29, 2005, Hurricane Katrina had delivered the largest storm surge in US history, at 8.5 meters or 27.8 feet. “When I saw the MDS letter, I thought it would be fun, but didn’t know if I really wanted to do it,” Lorraine said. “But I knew Wilmer wouldn’t want to go just anywhere to sit around, and this was something we could do together.” In February 2006, the couple joined eight others in a van of MDS volunteers from nearby Calvary Community Church. They’ve returned with a group to the Gulf Coast

each year since, helping residents rebuild from Hurricane Katrina. While no one yet knows what may conspire by their 50th anniversary, the couple does know they’d like to do some long-term MDS volunteer work along the way. – Emily Will

Wilmer and Lorraine Martin are ready to go out to an MDS project in New Orleans.

••

Church called to respond to drought in Zimbabwe Prayer requested as dams face decommissioning BULAWAYO, Zimbabwe — On March 10, Danisa Ndlovu, president of Mennonite World Conference, met the deputy Minister of Agriculture who asked the church to help find food for Matabeleland South province where people are at risk of starvation. “We are also calling for prayers for rain,” he added. “We have not had any significant inflows to dams that supply our city of Bulawayo. It is worrying as it might mean

“The church calls upon those who can partner with us in purchasing food that can be distributed to needy communities.”

– Danisa Ndlovu, MWC President

decommissioning of some of the dams in the next few months.” A March 1 report in The Zimbabwe Mail noted that while an early warning system had predicted a drought, government was too slow to act. The Voice of America reported a statement by the Zimbabwean Deputy Agriculture Minister: “heads must roll at the state-owned Grain Marketing Board where 50,000 tonnes of maize worth $16 million US have been damaged due to poor storage facilities.” “The church calls upon those who can partner with us in purchasing food that can be distributed to needy communities,” said Ndlovu. Some people can work for food, but the elderly and sick will need compassion. He added that animals need help, and that communities need seed and tools to grow their own food. – MWC

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 27

News

Burkinabe Anabaptists benefit from seminar They were encouraged amid many challenges Steve Wiebe-Johnson, Mennonite Mission Network’s director for Africa, said the Mennonite Church in Burkina Faso is numerically small and dispersed through the country. Members often live side-by-side with Muslim neighbors. The act of coming together is an encouragement to a church living in a “rather harsh spiritual and economic environment.” – MMN and MWC

PHOTO: SIAKA TRAORÉ

ORODARA, Burkina Faso — During the second week of February 2012 more than 100 Mennonite women attended the Eglise Evangélique Mennonite du Burkina Faso annual women’s seminar. When more than a quarter of the church—with 374 baptized members—shares a powerful experience, it is truly leaven in the loaf. At a couples seminar last August 2011 nearly 80 men and women deepened their knowledge about marital relationships, the importance of communication between spouses, mutual forgiveness, child psychology and pedagogy, and resource management. “This seminar was transformative for the church,” said Rod Hollinger-Janzen, executive coordinator for Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission. “Two months later, people… couldn’t stop talking about it.” Siaka Traoré, national president of the Burkina Mennonite Church, said a father and his children, after the seminar, “resolved the issues threatening to divide the family without outside mediation.” Claire Traoré, president of the Burkina Faso Mennonite women’s association and wife of Siaka, added that husbands and wives were talking together more – and making time to pray together, too.

Marie and Bala Sourabie enjoy time together at the couples’ seminar in Orodara, Burkina Faso. Sourabie is the national treasurer of Eglise Evangélique Mennonite du Burkina Faso.

••

CMI becomes Mid-Way Christian Leadership Mission refines its focus on ministry in Northern Manitoba THOMPSON, Man. — Continental Mission, Inc., has been ministering in northern Manitoba for nearly 70 years. It has enjoyed a rich history in evangelism, Bible camp ministry, church planting, radio and literature ministry. This history also includes a couple of significant changes of focus and of name. CMI has recently gone through a re-visioning process that has led the organization to change its focus to meet the current needs of northern Manitoba. The work of God is much larger than any one organization, so each group must choose what to focus on. Leadership Development has been identified as greatly desired by many Christians in the area. 28 The Messenger • May 2012

The organization has chosen to focus on “Growing Christian Leaders in the North,” and has chosen a new operating name that reflects that change of emphasis: MidWay Christian Leadership. Mid-Way Christian Leadership will walk alongside followers of “The Way” who have not yet arrived, but find themselves, like us, Mid Way in Leadership growth within their Christian life and community. Mid-Way Christian Leadership will partner with people, churches and communities to achieve its purpose of “Growing Christian Leaders in the North.” For information, check out continentalmission.org or call 204-778-4491. – MWCL

News

Dutch Mennonite church marks 200th anniversary Stepping into the future, seeking a just society ELSPEET, the Netherlands — More than 1,500 Mennonites were present on Sunday, September 18, 2011, for a final jubilee celebration that marked the 200th anniversary of the Algemene Doopsgezinde Sociëteit (ADS, Dutch Mennonite General Conference). Weekend festivities featured about 30 workshops under the theme New Paths of Believing. Topics included non-resistance, aging in relation to congregational development, climate change, and sustainability. A tree planting ceremony on Friday evening marked the historic reconciliation between Lutherans and Mennonites in 2010, in Stuttgart, Germany. The conference centre’s minister Marion Bruggen and Pastor Gerke van Hiele of Wageningen, used the image of espionage to recap the year. “This year we have been spies within our own tradition, and also partners in the quest of Menno Simons who died 450 years ago,” said Bruggen. The Dutch church was “brimming over with activities” of commemoration: new songs, exhibitions, historical hikes and bike rides tracing Menno Simons’ ministry, an amateur radio event centred in Witmarsum (where Simons lived), and a scientific congress. The year included other commemorations: the 100th anniversary of the ordination of Anne Mankes-Zernike, a Mennonite and the first woman to be ordained in the

PHOTO: MARIJKE VAN DUIN

“This year we have been spies within our own tradition, and also partners in the quest of Menno Simons who died 450 years ago,” said Bruggen.

Mennonites, The Musical, was a humorous historical sketch by Kees Posthumus who stands beside the letter D (for Doopsgezind, the name by which Dutch Mennonites are known).

Netherlands, and the 275th year of the Mennonite Theological Seminary. ADS chairman Otto Bleker said, “More than ever, you have been asked the question: ‘What, exactly, is a Mennonite?’” Bleker declared: “Feel the community of free believers, who want to travel the path of Christ together, who want a different, just society, who want peace and justice in his name, tomorrow, this year, every year.” – ADS and MWC

MCC calls for relief kit donations Supplies are ‘depleted’ as of April 20 WINNIPEG, Man — Recent shipments of relief kits to Syrian refugees has depleted Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) supplies. MCC is asking for donations to replenish relief kit reserves. The kits enable MCC to act quickly in a crisis or disaster. They contain basic necessities of daily living, such as towels, soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes and laundry soap. They are packed in fivegallon buckets that many recipients also find useful. To see a complete list of supplies and drop-off locations, visit mcccanada.ca/kits. Also, financial gifts are urgently needed to respond to the crisis in the Middle East, along with your prayers for peace. See mcccanada.ca/middleeastcrisis. – MCC

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 29

News

Gilbert delivers the unexpected at SBC Leadership Conference STEINBACH, Man. — Many long to see the Holy Spirit at work today in the same way we read of in the Early Church. Unfortunately, many feel that the Holy Spirit is not working in their lives unless they are experiencing amazing phenomena. The 2012 Leadership Conference speaker was Dr. Pierre Gilbert. Gilbert presented a theology of the Holy Spirit based on our Anabaptist perspective, beginning with an introduction to the “New Charismatics.” Gilbert outlined that the New Charismatics must face the reality of their situation and recognize that we live in a society quickly moving away from Christianity. They must also know that the Holy Spirit is actively involved in the world today, which means that we live with great hope. Gilbert gave us the word picture of new parents watching, “hovering” over their newborn child as she quietly sleeps in her crib. Their love for the child is immense and they would do anything to protect the newborn infant. This is a beautiful picture of love and the Holy Spirit’s deep concern for us. With this as the foundation, Dr. Gilbert discussed the power available to us so we can do the impossible. Through Samson as a case study, we discovered that God wants to work in partnership with humanity. He often uses unlikely candidates, such as Samson, you, or me. As God uses humanity, he gives these unlikely partners His Spirit to enable them to accomplish seemingly impossible tasks. What are the impossible tasks of today? Gilbert’s suggestions: • Men and women who fear nothing but God • Gracious and resolute pastors • Healthy marriages • The ability to distinguish between our needs and desires • Honesty and integrity • Parents raising godly children • Pastors who know they have the most important job in the world If most attendees were honest, this was not what we were expecting or hoping for. We were looking for an answer that included tongues of fire, speaking in tongues, visions, direct words from God, miracles, and healings. Gilbert pushed us toward the concept that the Holy Spirit is not prescriptive; rather, He provides for us based on our context. 30 The Messenger • May 2012

We should not expect that the Holy Spirit must work exactly as He did in the Early Church, nor should we think that we will have the same experience as our friends. We will experience the Holy Spirit in our lives based on our situation. So what do we need to accomplish the impossible? Gilbert would answer: We Dr. Pierre Gilbert need a fresh word from God and a new outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Then we will see reality as it really is. Then we will have the courage to speak the truth and live with the consequences. Then we will see the glory of God. Visit SBCollege.ca, for links to video and session notes. SBC is pleased to announce that the speaker for Leadership Conference 2013 will be Dr. Stuart Murray, author of The Naked Anabaptist. Conference dates are March 1–2, 2013. – Dr. Rob Reimer, SBC president

Mark your calendars for SBC’s 2nd Annual

GOLF

TOURNAMENT June 5, 2012

www.SBCollege.ca

PHOTO COURTESY SBC

Focuses on discipleship, not phenomena, in Spirit emphasis

Columns • writings shared Waging Peace: Muslim and Christian Alternatives, a “documentary about overcoming mistrust, hatred, and violence.” Harrisonburg, VA: Third Way Media, 2011. ISBN 9780836196207. Reviewed by Terry M. Smith.

hird Way Media, now part of MennoMedia, has provided a 57-minute, 30-second documentary on peacemaking within Christian and Muslim traditions. It includes comments from Anabaptist global consultant Dr. David W. Shenk, Lynn Hybels (wife of megachurch pastor Bill Hybels), church historian Dr. Martin Marty, and wider representatives from within Christian and Muslim circles. Its intent is clear: it wants to develop a greater understanding between Christians and Muslims, partly by highlighting that the Christian faith has pacifist roots and that Islam is a religion of peace. It is useful as a discussion starter, has good intentions behind it, and provides an effective counter-balance against kneejerk reactions that seem common today.

Does it succeed? Ultimately, that isn’t decided by a review such as this. If this DVD is shown over several Sunday School class days (as it would be useful to do), it might foster sensitive discussion. If so, it succeeds to that extent. If it is shown in Christian, Muslim, or mixed settings, and generates useful discussion, one can see this as good. Despite its strengths, at times it left me strangely dissatisfied. When it talked about Mennonites and Muslims, the descriptions needed balance: either Christians and Muslims or Mennonites and Sunni Muslims, for instance. And not enough information is provided about some of lesser-known Christian participants to help viewers decide how credible they are as representatives of the Christian faith.

When it talked about Mennonites and Muslims, the descriptions needed balance.

Go to Church, Save the World: Christian Community as Calling, by Gerald J. Mast (Herald Press, 2012). 192 pp. $13.99. ISBN 9780836195647. Reviewed by Kayla Rose Penner (Kleefeld EMC), youth leader and music student at Providence University College.

ecause this book has a cliché title I feel that I have the right to also use clichés. So here it begins. Do not judge this book by its cover. Instead, let it be the hook that draws you in. Ask yourself, how could going to church possibly change the world? How can biblical practices shape your daily witness? Be open-minded. Do not read this book until you are ready for what it has to say. Technology is advancing because of the growing intellect of humankind, thus knowledge about spirituality is also advancing. Here is a modern interpretation of age-old principles. Read the introduction. If that is not enough to reel you in, then read the entire book. If you don’t know what to make of what you just read, consider the discussion questions listed at the end of the chapters.

This book is one to be placed on your coffee table. Let others be intrigued by the clichés. To end this small review, this book is one to be placed on your coffee table. Let others be intrigued by the clichés. Gerald J. Mast has written a book about a more-than-general topic focused on churchgoing Christians, but spices it up with humour and strong beliefs. Christians need to communicate with other Christians for spiritual growth and accountability. It is hard enough in a secular world, so let God be the centre of the world He created. My words may be enough to sway you; they may not. Read it for yourself. www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 31

Columns • writings shared

Calendar

Teaching that Transforms: Why Anabaptist-Mennonite Education Matters, by John D. Roth (Herald Press, 2011). 236 pp. $12.99. ISBN 9780836195521. Reviewed by Gerald D. Reimer, EMC conference youth minister and connected with the BCM’s Education Committee.

“T

he incarnation is the foundational reference point for Anabaptist-Mennonite theology and the basis for a Christian philosophy of education in an Anabaptist-Mennonite perspective.” Dr. John D. Roth, history professor at Goshen College, does a thorough and practical job of unpacking this understanding. His focus is on all levels of Anabaptist-Mennonite (A-M) education, including elementary, secondary, and post-secondary schools within the United States, with brief references to Canadian A-M institutions. He begins with a history of both A-M and public education structures. Acknowledging a long history of skepticism towards formal education, the author spends much of the book unapologetically highlighting the strengths of an A-M philosophy of education. A foundational strength focuses on living out the incarnational reality of our faith, in that, rather than retreating from the world in a “quest for purity,” students become the visible embodiment of God’s presence in the world, otherwise known as a missional lifestyle. He also highlights the strategic outcomes of A-M schools, which include gifts of sight and perception, touching our world in practical ways, discernment, listening to God and each other, discovering our calling, and being attentive to the presence of the unseen. The author responds to tough questions facing A-M institutions, and then anticipates future challenges and 32 The Messenger • May 2012

how we need to prepare now for the spiritual health of future generations. I found this book valuable in that it gave a solid case for continuing to see A-M education as a healthy option for our families within the “politically correct” landscape of public education.

The author responds to tough questions facing A-M institutions.

Manitoba May 25–26 MCC Manitoba quilt show and sale 134 Plaza Dr, Winnipeg 204-261-6381, mccmanitoba.ca

June 2 MCC Manitoba lunch fundraiser 159 Henderson Hwy, Winnipeg 204-261-6381, mccmanitoba.ca

June 9 MCC Manitoba walk-a-thon and penny power collection Canadian Mennonite University 204-261-6381, mccmanitoba.ca

June 14 EMC Project Builders Golf Classic Steinbach Fly-In Golf Course 204-255-8062, rrpenner@shaw.ca

July 6–8

The 18th Annual

EMC

PROJECT BUILDERS

Golf Classic

June 14, 2012 Steinbach Fly-In Golf Course To register, contact Ruth Penner: 204-255-8062 or rrpenner@shaw.ca by May 18, 2012. Details available at www.emconference.ca (under events).

EMC Bicentennial Convention Providence University College 204-326-6401, www.emconference.ca

July 6 EMC Ministerial meeting Providence University College 204-326-6401, www.emconference.ca

July 7 EMC Conference Council meeting Bicentennial activities in the afternoon Providence University College 204-326-6401, www.emconference.ca

July 7 MCC Manitoba Cycle Clear Lake 204-261-6381, mccmanitoba.ca

July 11 MCC Manitoba golf tournament Bridges Golf Course 204-261-6381, mccmanitoba.ca

Shoulder Tapping Pastoral positions New Life Christian Fellowship in Stevenson, Ont., seeks a senior pastor who has a heart for people and loves the Lord. We are an evangelical church located in Stevenson, Ontario. The church is mostly young families with average attendance between 80 and 100 people. The majority of the people attending have a Low German-speaking background. We seek a pastor who has the heart of a shepherd and a desire to see our church grow. He should have strong preaching and teaching skills and ability to develop leaders. Pastoral experience is preferred. He must be in agreement with our constitution and statement of faith. Anyone who possesses these qualifications and is interested in this position can forward their resume to nlcf@ciaccess.com. Do you enjoy fishing? How about quiet community living? If you are God-fearing with a deep personal faith, seeking a full-time pastoral position, Treesbank Community Church (EMC) could be the place for you. We are a small country church located in southwestern Manitoba, between the Souris and Assiniboine Rivers. If you are interested in this position, please contact Leonard Plett at 204-824-2475 or at lplett@mts.net. Ridgewood EMC is looking for a full-time senior pastor to begin August 1, 2012. This multi-generational family oriented rural church is located northeast of Steinbach, Man., with over 200 in attendance on Sunday mornings. As the spiritual overseer, the senior pastor is the shepherd and guardian of the congregation. This ministry is accomplished by studying and teaching, praying and preaching, and visiting and visioning on the basis of the Word. Ridgewood EMC members strive to be a people that minister to the whole family, worshipping God together, sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ in love, responding to needs around, and cultivating a culture of Biblical discipleship, prayer and fellowship—all for the glory of God. Applications along with a cover letter should be sent to Stan Hamm, stan.hamm@prov.ca, or Stan Hamm, Box 140, Blumenort, MB R0A 0C0. Rosenort EMC, in southern Manitoba, seeks a senior pastor who will prepare and preach sermons that inspire, challenge and convict, emphasizing spiritual development. He will equip members, teaching and modelling local evangelism and missions and oversee the Leader-In-Training program. His ministry team includes a full-time youth pastor, lay ministers, deacons, and 250 members. He will be a servant leader, modelling faithfulness and love for the Lord, caring for those with needs while guiding, directing, correcting and unifying the church with sound Biblical teaching. He

views the Bible as the inspired and true Word of God, the authority for faith and action. Having a deep personal faith, strong convictions, and valuing family highly, he is a warm and loving person. He relates to us as a listener; not afraid to reveal personal pain and struggles; a compassionate and godly man. See www.rosenortemc.com for full ad. Contact: Arlin Scharfenberg, ascharfenberg@xplornet.ca, 204-746-6154. La Crete Christian Fellowship Church (EMC) seeks a full-time associate pastor. La Crete, located in NW Alberta, offers rural lifestyle and a progressive outlook. With a range of family-oriented amenities, it’s a great place to raise a family. LCCFC is a vibrant church of approximately 500 regular attendees who desire to spread the Word through a variety of ministries. The associate pastor will provide direction to our care giving and outreach ministries as well as work closely with the pastoral team to strengthen the parishioners’ personal connection and commitment to Jesus Christ. The applicant should be committed to a personal Christian faith, a disciple of Jesus Christ, a willing and teachable leader, and a person whose love for the Lord is reflected in their ability to work well with others. If the Holy Spirit seems to be inviting you to pursue this further, please contact Bill Neudorf at 780-814-1439, neudorfs@telus.net, or www.lccfc.ca.

Other opportunities Arborg Youth for Christ is seeking a satellite director to lead a beautiful and active youth centre in Arborg, Manitoba. Reporting to and supported by a dedicated steering committee, this person will promote the ministry throughout the community, develop the drop-in program, and supervise team members. The ability to handle administrative and financial duties will be required. Qualifications include a love for teens, superior communication skills, and an ability to work with a team of volunteers from a variety of backgrounds. A history of participating in a church community is an asset. Email resume to Keith Tarry at keith@yfcwinnipeg.ca or 333 King Street, Winnipeg, MB R3B 0N1 or 204-669-4205, ext. 204.

directors. The camp is located near Edmonton, Alta. Email bright.wood@hopemission.com or website: www.brightwoodranchcamps.com. Police checks are needed. Bethany College, Hepburn, Sask., is seeking a donor relations field representative, athletics director and ministry arts director. For information or to respond, please visit www.bethany.sk.ca or contact Human Resources, Bethany College, Box 160, Hepburn, SK S0K 1Z0; info@bethany.sk.ca; 866-7722175. Bethany College, an evangelical Anabaptist College, is a biblical learning community with an emphasis on active, informed discipleship. Our mission is to “nurture disciples, and train leaders to serve.” We seek to create a community of learning in which instruction, modeling, and mutual accountability can result in transformed lives both intellectually and spiritually. Are you looking for an opportunity to make a difference this summer while making some money? Work for Gem Lake Wilderness Camp and experience an adventure of a lifetime while influencing a child’s life. Inner City Youth Alive is looking for committed, passionate Christian leaders to work as counselors and lifeguards this summer. Openings available: May-Aug. and July-Aug. Contact: gord@icya.ca or call 204-582-8779, ext. 212, for more details. Jobs at ICYA: Inner City Motorsport Assistant (10-15 hrs/week with possibility of more, MayAugust). For detailed information on this position, go to www.icya.ca.

The Messenger does not sell advertising, but provides free space (classified and display) to enhance our Conference, its churches, boards and ministries; interMennonite agencies and educational institutions; and the wider church. Ads are not to be for monetary benefit. To place an ad (150 words or less), e-mail messenger@emconf.ca or call 204-3266401 and ask for Rebecca Roman or Terry Smith. Ads will run twice unless other arrangements are made.

E-mail rroman@emconf.ca to order free copies!

Horsemanship instructor and summer barn staff needed for Christian camp operating summer programs for underprivileged kids. Also needed are summer staff members: counselors, kitchen staff, maintenance, nurse, secretary and program

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 33

Columns • pictures of god

Don’t mind the mess

DREAMSTIME.COM

by Joanna Enns

ou wouldn’t know it from looking at my desk, but I hate messes. More accurately, perhaps, I like to present the final product clean, pristine and perfect. Since exams ended last week, my focus has turned from academic excellence to culinary creations. I made my first lasagna from scratch yesterday. It turned out quite well if I must say so myself, but it was a lot more work than I expected. By the time I had it in the oven and had prepared my dessert, every surface of our tiny apartment kitchen – including the top of the fridge – was covered with dishes. Before I continue, I must give a Mother’s Day shout out to all the moms out there who have spent years managing to cook meals, wash laundry, and keep their houses in order while chasing toddlers and staying on top of other community and family responsibilities. Yesterday I had great aspirations of having the house cleaned, laundry finished, dishes washed and dinner ready by the time my husband came home from work. Although I got an impressive amount of work done, when my husband told me he was heading home, the kitchen was a wild mess. Although I knew he would understand, I was disappointed not to be able to have everything ready for him when he returned. I think sometimes I am afraid that God will

34 The Messenger • May 2012

walk in on me in my messes. I want to present to him the finished product, pristine and perfect, but I don’t want him to see the mess. I find it much easier to confess a sin after I have corrected it than to come to him in my weaknesses or to “present” him with a good deed without asking him to help me do it. In these times, I need to remind myself that God intentionally entered the mess that is our lives. When Jesus put aside his majesty and perfection and came down to earth, he immersed himself in the mess of humanity. He loved people where they were at because he saw the finished product even better than they did. Even in his work of salvation, God took intimate ownership of both the final product and the mess of getting there. Through Jesus’ death, he created the way for us to become perfect sons and daughters. Through the gift of the Holy Spirit and through Jesus’ life training, God chose to enter into the mess of sanctification and committed himself to teaching us how to become holy. My husband has been a good example of this for me. While he was waiting for his Canadian permanent residence and then for his job to start, he learned firsthand about the challenges of taking care of a household. This experience gave him grace for me when he walked into the shockingly disastrous kitchen last night and helped me finish the dishes before digging into the lasagna. This experience challenged me to welcome God into the messes of my life and to invite him to be part of the process of making me holy.

Sometimes I am afraid that God will walk in on me in my messes. I want to present to him the finished product, pristine and perfect, but I don’t want him to see the mess.

Columns • stewardship today

Learning generosity

enerosity doesn’t just happen—it can be learned. ZenithOptimedia projects that advertisers in Canada will spend $11.3 billion in 2012 hoping that consumers will learn to spend money on their products. Rather than just succumbing to this tide, why not commit to engaging with at least one generosity resource this year? Devotional guides can help explore the spiritual significance of our relationships with God and money. Generosity: moving toward life that is truly life is a four-week guide by Gordon MacDonald. There’s No ATM in the Wilderness by various United Church of Canada writers is set up as a series of daily reflections for Lent but can be used year-round. Authors use various helpful metaphors to describe the generous life. Christine Roush personally reflects on lifestyle choices in her book, Swimming Upstream: Reflections on consumerism and culture. Randy Alcorn suggests that giving unlocks the treasure box of joy in his book, The Treasure Principle. With new technology, we can take in events we are not able to attend such as Walter Brueggemann’s 2012 lectures at Eastern Mennonite University’s School for Leadership Training on podcast at http://emu.edu/now/podcast/category/school-for-leadership-training. Brueggemann’s call is for Christians to best practice faith by living gratefully rather than anxiously. There are resources which describe options for integrating Biblical principles with economy. The Sabbath Economics Collaborative uses keeping

Sabbath as a core ethic weaving this together with current economic investment possibilities (www.sabbatheconomics.org). Using stories from intentional community life, Jonathan WilsonHartgrove envisions an economy in which the poor find bread, the rich find healing and both rediscover the other as friends in God’s Economy. Especially set up for families who want to counteract the crush of advertising culture, Money Sanity Solutions: Linking Money & Meaning by Nathan Dungan offers many conversation starters. Couples who are either starting out or wanting to have a conversation about faith and money in their relationship can use the First Things First workbook from MFC. Because we can make more significant spiritual changes in solidarity with others, MFC offers the study guide God, Money, and Me. For small groups desiring to make concrete lifestyle changes in order to increase the potential for generosity, a guide is available from Simple Living for Just Giving (http://economicdiscipleship. wordpress.com/resources). For church leaders, J. Clif Christopher has written two provocative books, Not Your Parents’ Offering Plate and Whose Offering Plate Is It? Rather than simply hope for the best in the face of declining donations to churches, Christopher advocates that churches need to be clear about their vision to change the world, not just raise more money. Check your church library or conference office for what generosity resources are available. MFC staff are eager to assist in the process of learning generosity—our own print resources are free or available online at www.mennofoundation.ca. Let the learning continue!

by Dori Zerbe Cornelsen

Dori Zerbe Cornelsen is a stewardship consultant at the Winnipeg, Man., office of Mennonite Foundation of Canada (MFC). MFC provides stewardship education and estate and charitable gift planning for no cost. Contact your nearest MFC office or visit Mennofoundation.ca.

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 35

Columns • kids’ corner

What’s important about colour?

DESIGNPICS.COM

by Loreena Thiessen

God is the inventor of colour in all of his creation, and he is pleased with what he has made. 36 The Messenger • May 2012

Colour makes something appealing—a bright red apple looks delicious, so you choose it. Colours make us feel happy; this is why it’s fun to give your mother flowers. Colours help you to see something more clearly, where it is. For example, if you are about to cross the street and a red car is coming, you see it easily and stop and wait until it has passed before you step out. Crossing guards wear yellow so they are better seen. Colours protect animals too. The stripes on wild animals help them blend in with tall grasses. Bright colours in some insects and fish tell others they are poisonous, so they are safe from being eaten. Some animals change colour as they move from one spot to another in their natural habitat, or from season to season. The wild rabbit is grey-brown in summer and white in winter just to blend in. As you walk to and from school each day, or while playing outside, take note of colours. How many different colours do you see in a day? What’s important about the colour? Does it make you feel happy? Does it warn you? Does it help you choose what to eat, or what to wear? God is the inventor of colour in all of his creation, and he is pleased with what he has made. Read Genesis 1:20, 21, 25.

Activity: What colour is it? Match the colour with the item.

Green Red Yellow Orange Brown Blue Black Purple

a juicy fruit crow grapes means “Go!” sunflower cow apple sky

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Answers: Green – means “Go!”, Red – apple, Yellow – sunflower, Orange – a juicy fruit, Brown – cow, Blue – sky, Black – crow, Purple – grapes

ake a look outside. Look in your backyard or from a window. What can you see? Brown winter grass has turned green. Leaf buds are opening and shrubs and bushes are wearing a new green veil. You recognize the robin by its red breast, and you know the Canada goose has arrived by its long black neck and white cheek markings. Nature is full of colour. You know the zebra by its black and white stripes, the lion by its sandy brown coat and its shaggy mane. When your pet cat comes to greet you, you know who it is by the colour of its fur. Flowers come in all colours; roses are red, daffodils are yellow, lilies are white, and some are orange. Everything is in colour. Why is that? What would happen if there was no colour? The world around you would be dull; you would have difficulty identifying differences. You wouldn’t know if it was your cat or the neighbor’s eating at its dish in your kitchen. You might not pick flowers because they would not brighten up your house. It would be more difficult to choose what to eat or drink. You wouldn’t know if you were getting milk or Pepsi until you tasted it. So colour helps you recognize things.