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I Vol. 10 No. 26 December 29, 1972
1963-1973
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Ten years old! With this issue of MESSENGER we are completing 10 years of publication. Ten years old! This means that if you have been a subscriber from the beginning that you have re ceived something like 250 issues of the paper. If you have saved them, as some do, you will have about as complete a record of the EMC of these ten years as any available. I would with this like to thank all those who have been an encouragement to me during this time. With the change from our previous English publication, which was included in the Familienfreund as a kind of appendix in the back, as you may recall, this was a giant step. With not a little appre hension we assembled the first issue. I say we because Bill Neufeld the printer was almost like an assistant to me at that time and proved a real help. You may or may not recall that the first issue was in two color of which one was red. That, and with the new format 8V2XII and eight pages, was enough to stir butterflies in one’s heart. I still remember how with a kind of sinking feeling I made a rush trip to Prairie Rose to consult Mr Abe Unger, the assistant editor, on the style of paper I was proposing. And bless his heart, he went along with it too. (That the first issue would come out in red I don’t think I told him.) Since the final decisions on starting a new paper were made only in December and we wanted to begin publishing with the new year, I still recall how I had to hustle to get that first issue into print. Although it was only two-thirds the size it is now, yet it required what to me seemed like a lot of copy. Among those who contributed to this first issue were Harvey Plett, Mrs John K. Reimer, Levi Dueck, Johnny Loewen and Katheryn McNeill. Plus this there were news reports from seven churches. One item in the Blumenort news I thought was significant enough to mention. John Loewen succeeded David P. Reimer as leader of the Blumenort congregation. One cannot help, when thinking of Mr David P. Reimer, but think of him as the forerunner in our Conference in the field of literary communication. It was he who became the first editor of our first Conference publication, Der Christliche Familienfreund. I believe we must say his vision was beyond his time. And for some 25 years he would be editor of this paper being replaced by Mr Abe R. Reimer who is still serving today. I suppose this change occurred in 1960 or so because the German paper began in 1935. Were he living today I’m sure the first editor would re joice to see the increase to subscribers to about double from the time when he laid down his work.
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The MESSENGER too, has seen a steady increase in subscribers, although not as drastic as that of our German paper. At present we are printing 2,150 MESSENGERS and some 3,000 Familienfrounds. They are published on alter nate weeks. Many homes receive both papers. All should get one. If you are a member and not receiving either one of our EMC publications, please send us your name and address and which paper you want, or both, and we will put you on the mailing list. Pastors are also encouraged to send in names of newly-weds or new members. In the first issue of the MESSENGER I outlined what I wanted to be the purpose of the paper. Briefly I wanted it to have a three-fold ministry. To inform. To instruct. And to inspire. This would still constitute my main goals. And should one look through the papers of these ten years I do hope that is what one would find. I would also like to thank all contributors, and not least the faithful church reporters. Without contributions from the constituency by way of articles or reports, etc., the paper could not exist in a meaningful way. I am also sometimes asked about letters to the editor. Does one get many? To this the answer must be, no. Few people write to an editor because there’s always the danger that the letter will be printed. And well it might, unless specifically stated. Not for Publication. This absence of letters sometimes gives me a real con cern. Does it mean that we go along with everything which appears in print? This would be an ideal situation, but cer tainly not always the most commendable. Now we do know that some letters of concern have ap peared and I have printed them even though I may not see eye to eye on all issues touched on. Nor may you see eye to eye with me and my reason for publishing them. This is where love and tolerance must come in. Not, mind you, in the sense of tolerating evil or inconsistant living but in the sense of giving people a chance to express themselves. Nevertheless after all is said and done I must still come to the conclusion of one editor who lamented that, "The people with the most opinions are the most difficult to get a written opinion of.” Finally we would like to congratulate three young people who have grown to be ten years old with us whose births were announced in MESSENGER Vol. 1 No. 1 ten years ago. They are Gerald Brandt, Mennville; Richard Kornelsen, Riverton and Carol Elizabeth Dueck of Morris (Rosenort). All three have their birthdays in December. -D.S.
THE MESSENGER. Published every other week by Evangelical Mennonite Conference, Board of Education and Publication, Box 1268, Steinbach, Manitoba. Second Class Mail, Registration Number 0591. Undeliverable copies, change of address and new subscriptions should be mailed to the above address,
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THE MESSENGER
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All EMC Mission personnel in Nicaragua safe
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By now most of our readers will have been made aware of the devastating earthquake which destroyed the city of Managua Nicaragua on December 23. Naturally our Mission office and parents of our missionaries were very con cerned. The first news of their safety reached us on Saturday afternoon, day of the quake. Subsequent long distance phone calls have been received here. The latest one coming this morning direct to the Mission office from our missionary Les ter Olfert. His words, "we are all fine” was music to our ears. On the other hand he also reported one of their church members had perished, which of course was sad news. The EMC church, though, in Managua, was intact. The Fred Friesens who pastor the Managua EM church are staying in Jinotepe (some 40 miles from Managua) where the Olferts are stationed. At the mo ment none of them have plans to come home. Lester also confirmed what we had heard on the news that the whole city had been "destroyed”. News reports have it tha^ at least 3000 have perished and there are some 20,000 injured as a result of Saturday’s quake. In conclusion, who knows but that this disaster, where so many lives were lost, might also be the beginning of a great spiritual harvest for Nicaragua. Shall we pray to that end.
NEW YEAR’S MESSAGE FROM HON. EDWARD SCHREYER, PREMIER
Manitoba is entering the New Year with renewed hope and rising expec tations. There will be difficulties to face, and challenges to meet, but these will be tackled from the very solid foundation based on the strength of our people. Our future too, depends on the full development of the poten tial of all Manitoba citizens. Thus the principal challenge facing us at the start of this New Year is to ensure that all our people have the op portunity to share in the development of our province and in the fruits of
our tabor. Let us resolve to reach new heights of human and economic achievement within a society that provides equality of opportunity and of condition. Manitobans representing many cul tures and many backgrounds have worked together to create the kind of province we have today. Let us make the most of this rich treasure in working toward an even better to morrow. In this atmosphere of hope for the future I wish each of you happiness in the days that lie ahead of us.
NEW YEAR’S MESSAGE FROM HON W. J. McKEAG, LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR New Year’s Day is a time when we traditionally look back at the year .that has passed and recount the things it has brought us for which we can be thankful, as well as to remember again our moments of sadness and of disappointment. But looking back is only half the tradition because we also look to the year that stretches ahead of us. We have much to be thankful for in the year that has just passed and I am sure we can look to the New Year full of optimism. Manitobans
December 29. 1972
still share in the unparalleled opportunities that Canada offers for enjoying a full and satisfying life, I have been able to meet many thousand.3 of Manitobans during this past year and to share their ideas and feelings about our province. I am looking forward to visiting and talk ing with many more of you in the months ahead. I hope all of you are enjoying this holiday season to the full and that you have a rewarding 1973.
ILi®tb(fe®ir FROM CEDARWOOD APARTMENTS First of all we wish you God’s blessings and the best of health! We moved into the Cedarwood Apart ments in February, 1971. At that time Resthaven Apartment C. In the be ginning I didn't like it too well, but now we like it. It is very comfort able. Since we have electric heat, we can have the warmth we like. In the winter months we have Bible Study once a week. Brother Ben Hoeppner is our teacher right now. The Ladies also have a gather ing once a month in the winter in the assembly room. They named it "Cedarwood Apartment Ladies Aid.” They also have a collection and have asked me if I would be their secretary treasurer. I said I would do it together with my wife. They re ceived close to $200. in a ten month period. They collected the money for the needy children in India. It is sent through the Mennonite Central Committee. They gave it because they have sympathy for the people of India. We are living in here peacefully. We are three men and thirty-one ladies from seven different churches. We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. F. D. Kroeker Box 35 Steinbach, Man.
December 18,1972 GIVES PRAISE AND THANKS
I wish to express my sincere thanks for all the prayers and get-well wish es, cards and visitors of the past year. It will be a year ago on Dec. 29 that my wife got very sick and I brought her to the Ste. Anne hospi tal. Since that time she has spent a good amount of time in the hospi tal but is much better now. We have much reason to praise the Lord. Especially that our son has received Christ as Saviour. It is so good to see and feel the working of the Holy Spirit.
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up that their "holy cemetery” was being contaminated by these ignor ant, corrupt people. However, they were unable to prevent his burial. Truly “all things work together for good to them that love the Lord." — Lester Oltert
Letters cont’d.
When we read the papers we notice that many souls have received Christ. This gives us courage to continue to strive for the goal we want to reach one day. But there are so many who still need to be won for the Lord. Let us not faint by the way. Jesus said He would be with us to the Pictured is the brick-layer laying the first stone at the recent church inauguration end. He wants us to humble ourselves so that He can work through us. ceremony at La Paz, Nicaragua. Looking on is our missionary Lester Olfert. I have often failed to do the will of God. For this reason I have to get down on my knees often to ask for for giveness. I also praise God for my health. I am at my job almost every November 19, 1972 history was made happen but God has done marvellous day. in La Paz, Carazo, Nicaragua. It things. It is almost Christmas now and I New doors were opened through the wish you all a Merry Christmas and a was the day the first stone (brick) was laid in the Evangelical Menno- death of a three-year-old boy of one happy New Year. Jesus has come for nite Church of La Paz. The Christ of our Christians. It was the first all people; the sick, the aged, the ians gathered for a short service at Christian funeral which was a real lonesome, the widows and orphans, the site of the construction. It was testimony. During the night watch the crippled, retarded and blind. I tremendous to see the joy of the be we sang hymns, prayed, read Scrip wish you a special nearness in these lievers as they began to see the fruit ture and preached the Word, which days which I also covet for my par of their offerings. At the time of was a real change from the usual ents in Mexico. this writing the building is almost card playing and distribution of Jake F. Kornelsen ready for the roof to be put on. Many cigarettes and alcohol. Some of Blumenort unbelievers said that this would never the Roman Catholic people got riled December 19,1972
Great rejoicing
Nicaraguan brethren digging at La Paz church site for foundation.
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New church structure at La Paz, Nicaragua going up.
THE MESSENGER
IN MY OWN BACKYARD - ELSIE by Betty Koop
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MISSIONARY VISITS OFFICE A welcome visitor at the EMC Conference office this past fall was Miss Trudy Kuhl man (center), missionary from Europe stationed in Austria. Miss Kuhlman is with the Child Evangelism Fellowship. She also reported on her work to the EMC Stein bach Sunday school as well as show slides at the mid-week service. She is also acquainted with several Steinbach missionaries serving in Europe. She is pictured here with office EMC secretaries Elizabeth Reimer (right) and Wilma Brandt (left).
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Mission-Grams Eidses Suffer Loss Through Fire: Sunday, December 3, Ben Eidses at Kamayala discovered there was trouble with their kerosene refrigerator. Adjustment was made but shortly there was black smoke and a burst of flame. With the limited fire extinguish ing supplies, it was impossible to bring the fire under control. The house was destroyed, including considerable personal goods. Mel Claassens had their personal goods stored in the Eidse home which suffered a total loss. Contri butions to restore the goods for these families will be appreciated. Since AIMM has a policy on losses for missionaries, contributions are tax deduct ible. Send your help direct to Elkhart or through your conference channels.
Church Center Completed, Zaire A church center consisting of an office building and three dwellings have been built to house the administration of the CMZ in Zaire (Mennonite church of the Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission). This move became necessary with the fusing of church and mission earlier. Foreman on the job was Archie Graber. The center, located at Tshikapa, has been completed with only $2,000 indebtedness. What appear to be a financial impossibility has been turned into reality. AIMM Goes Into New Field James Bertsche, missionary under the Africa Inter-Mennonite Church, has gone to Lesotho, another African country. AIMM is seeking to begin mission work in this new field. A couple is expected to leave for Lesotho in January.
December 29. 1972
Elsie’s children played in our back yard a lot, but I met her only rarely. She seemed shy and quiet, almost as if afraid of being rejected by one who was of a different race. But her little boy had a skin disease which neces sitated her laundering his sheets and clothes every day so one day she ap peared at my back gate and asked if she might use my washlines. After this we talked a bit from time to time, but there seemed to be a lack of understanding between us. At times I wondered how I might break this barrier. The one time that we spoke briefly of the church she said, somewhat wistfully I thought, that she hadn't been inside a church for a long time and should maybe go again. I said she was very welcome to come to our services, but she never did come. I wasn’t too concerned when I no ticed that her children had not been around for a while — I'm afraid it was more relief than anything else! Then one day she came to see me. As we sat in our living room, she told me of her despair when her husband brought home a “new wife” and told Elsie he was leaving. That night she slashed her wrists — all desire for living gone. But panic seized her and she called for help. Her life had been spared “And, ” she said, “I won’t try that again.” I wish I could write that she was gloriously saved that day, but I cannot. She did not seem interested when I tried to speak of the things of God. Not long after, she moved and I have not seen her again. I have asked myself since, why could I not reach her? Was it just a racial barrier? Or was I not in tune with God’s Holy Spirit that day? Pro bably that latter has the most truth in it. An old truth perhaps, but still very important: our relationship with God needs to be renewed daily and continuously so He can direct us at all times. Even in our own back yards! Betty Koop is the wife of Bien Koop, formerly pastor Aberdeen BMC. The Koops are at present at Eastern Mennonite Seminary, Harrisonburg, Virginia. Mrs Koop has contributed before.
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What should he our attitude towards spiritual gifts
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Spiritual Gifts // by Harvey Plett
In our last study we delineated the gifts, the purpose of them and the source of the gifts. We now look at the value and proper use of these gifts. If you will review the list of gifts you will find that it is possible to divide them into two categories. One grouping includes those which we would consider as abili ties received through birth or developed through study and use. An example would be, teacher. The other grouping includes those gifts which one could de scribe as miraculous. An example of this would be speaking in another tongue. Paul seemingly does not make a distinction of importance or value whether the gift is miraculous or non-miraculous. All gifts come from God and are given by the Holy Spirit. But Paul does consider some gifts more valuable in terms of their use and result. I Corinthians 12:27-31 clearly implies a ranking by the use "first,” "second,” "third” and "then”. Verse 31 states that there are higher and lower gifts. In chapter 14 Paul considers prophecy—proclamation of God’s word—as a more important gift than tongues. His reason for this evaluation grows out of the purpose of the gifts, namely, building up the Church (I Cor inthians 14:12). The importance of a gift is determined by its ability to serve the common good of all rather than merely the individual. Those gifts serving the good of all are of greater value. There is no one gift that all be
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lievers have except love. This point is clearly and once for all made by Paul in I Corinthians 12: 29-30. Paul poses a series of questions. The Corinthians would have read the questions something like this—"All are not teachers are they? All do not speak in tongues, do they?” With each question they would have answered, "Of course not.” Thus any attempt to make one gift the required gift for all is failing to read the obvious sense of the Bible. Another question that comes to mind is, are the lists of gifts ex haustive or are there some gifts which are possibly not men tioned. A study of the three pas sages, Romans 12, Ephesians 4, I Corinthians 14, would suggest that we do not necessarily have an exhaustive list. There is no clear statement to that effect. The Sovereign Spirit gives as He pleases. We dare not limit Him. A comparison of translations will bring out the fact that in Romans and Ephesians the gifts are described as "gifts of grace” while in Corinthians they are de scribed as "spiritual gifts”. Two different words are used. Since, however, we do have some gifts (e.g. teacher) mentioned under both categories, there is probably no real distinction. By now someone may be ask ing, "What should be our attitude toward spiritual gifts?” Paul gives us the answer. 1. I Corinthians 12:21 - We should be informed that there are spiritual gifts and the purpose of the same. Ignorance may lead
astray. 2. I Corinthians 12:4 - We should recognize that there are a variety of gifts. Just as the body has many members, so the church has many members with different gifts. 3. I Corinthians 14:1 - "Earn estly desire the spiritual gifts.” We are to be open and desirous of spiritual gifts. That is, we should have a positive attitude to ward spiritual gifts. 4. I Corinthians 12:31 - "Earneastly desire the higher gifts.” Our desire for gifts is to be with discretion. Some gifts are higher. According to I Corinthians 14:1 as well as I Corinthians 12:27-30 prophecy is one of the higher gifts. I Corinthians 14 also tells us that Paul considers those gifts of highest value that can be used SO that everyone profits from its use. 5. I Corinthians 14:29 - We are to weigh what is being said in prophecy. That is we are not to be gullible but test the validity of the spiritual gift. That is we are to test the spirit. (More will be said on testing in a coming article.) The Lord has given us gifts, let us use them to the upbuilding of the Church to God’s greater glory. In our next article we will dis cuss the gift of tongues. Since tongues has caused so much dis cussion the reader is encouraged to study the following passages in anticipation of the next article. Acts 2, 8, 9, 10-11, 19; I Cor inthians 12-14.
THE MESSENGER
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John K. Reimer
Elizabeth Reimer
Wilma Brandt
MEET THE STAFF
D. K. Schellenberg
We would like to with this page in the MESSENGER introduce the staff at the Conference offices in Steinbach. Pray for us as you remember us. We are your ser vants, for Jesus sake. John K. Reimer: Mr Reimer is the Executive Secretary of the EMC Board of Missions and occupies one of the offices in the new building. Among his duties are: counselling with candidates, visiting missionaries, attending Board meetings and correspondence. Ask any of our missionaries and they will leave you in doubt as to Mr Reimer's place in our overall mission program. He has been with the Board of Missions since 1969 when he was appointed to his present position. Wilma Brandt: Wilma has been with us since August of this year. She is office secretary for the Conference. As such she writes checks for all mission personnel, types Board minutes and letters, etc. Blumenort is her home church. She stays at home and commutes to the office daily. Elizabeth Reimer: Sister Reimer is secretary for the Board of Education and Publication. Her work consists of MESSENGER and Familienfreund subscriptions, proof reading, sales, typing, etc. She first began her work for this office in 1969. She lives in Steinbach and has her church home in the Steinbach EMC. D. K. Schellenberg: Editor of the MESSENGER and Executive Secretary of the EMC Board of Education and Publication. Began full-time ministry with the Board of Education in 1966.
When it was realized that with the Conference work expanding and more room would be needed the Conference purchased this bung alow and moved it to a leased sight on the SBI campus. With a minimum of renovation, this former school classroom building, was converted into three offices, a reception area, a board room and a storeroom. Those who worked in the former offices are grateful for this extra room.
December 29,1972
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1972 MESSENGER INDEX ARTICLES March 10 Revival Meetings, Anne Klassen.................. Afraid of the World, John Drescher............ March 24 . .April 14 The Decline of Choirs, David Wiebe............. ..April 21 Excuses and Limitations, D. Wiebe............. V.S. Mother of Six........................................ ..April 21 ..April 21 Devaluation of Dilemmas........................... Loneliness in the Church, Paul Barkman.. ..April 21 Some Thoughts on Folk Songs, B. Derksen ...May 5 Out of the Mouths of Babes, Anne Klassen. ....May 5 Evangelism with Integrity, H. Janz............. ...May 5 Experiences at Lay Institute of Evangelism, Mrs D. Sawatzky................................. May 5 In Search of Certainty, F. C. Peters............................. May 19 Reasons For Studying at MBBC.................................. May 19 The Gospel as Good News.............................................. May 19 Women’s Lib, Mrs M. Dueck.......................................... June 2 We Saw Europe... .June2, June 16, June30, Aug. 11, Sept.8 Social Evangelism.......................................................... June 2 Home Plan Working Quiet Miracle............................... June 2 CIM Celebrates.................................................................. June30 ExpIo ’72............................................................................. July14 So You’re Off to College..................................................... Aug.11 Brief History of EMC Missions........................................... Aug.11 Our Real Problem.............................................................. Aug.25 What We Ought to Know About Mental Retardation.. Sept. 8, Nov. 3, Nov. 17 World Conference............................................................. Sept.22 Ministerial Retreat............................................................. Sept.22 EMC Nurses Fellowship..................................................... Sept.22 Missing Dimension in American Evangelism................. Oct. 6 Holy Spirit Articles............... Oct. 20, Nov. 3, Nov. 17, Nov. 24
CONVENTIONS AND CONFERENCES Questions about Probe 72.................................... Students, Ministers Gather.................................. Setting the Captive Free (SBI Ministers Conf.)... 1972 NAE Convention........................................... Ethics Seminar, Winnipeg.................................... Probe 72 Goal...................................................... Campus Crusade L.I.F.E....................................... NAE at 30 Stirred by Challenges......................... 1972 EMC Annual Conference............................. Ninth Mennonite World Conference....................
EDITORIALS 1972 A New Year........................................... What Can We Learn From This Revival......... Minister Shortage......................................... A New Beginning........................................... Will the Church Fail Them............................. Footprints in the Snow.................................. How Big is Our Faith...................................... Revival Continues......................................... Constitution Concerns.................................. Just Fire Drill................................................. By Their Fruits............................................... When Have You Last Been to Prayer Meeting Liberalism, Is It a Threat (Guest).................. A Search for Balance (Guest)...................... Needed—More Prophets............................... Communicating the Good News............ . . . Episode on Highway One............................... What is Your Business.................................. Having Friends; Being Friends....................... Trust Your Brother........................................
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..Feb. 11 ..Feb. 25 March 10 March 24 . .April 14 . .April 14 ....May 5 ...May 5 . .July 14 ..Sept. 22 . .Jan. 14 ..Feb. 11 ..Feb. 11
.. Fet>. 25 March 10 March 10 March 24 . .April 14 . .April 21 . .April 21 ..April 21 ....May 5 ..May 19 .. .June 2 . .June 16 .June 16 . .June 30 ..July 14 ...July 28 . .Aug. 11
.Aug. 25 Sept. 22 .Oct. 20 .. Nov. 3 .Nov. 17 • Nov. 24 .Dec. 15 .Dec. 29
I’m Sorry....................................... Reflecting.................................... 1972 Election............................... Is Your Church “Dangerous”... Facing Life As It Is........................ How Old Is Too Old...................... Christmas Letter From Us To You Ten Years Old...............................
FROM OUR HOUSE TO YOUR HOUSE Always Room For (Four) More, Anne Klassen.... Bandaid or Iodine, Violet Wright........................... What Are We Going To Do In Heaven.................. Sharing Christ From A Hospital Bed.................... When I Consider, Anne Klassen........................... The Home Missionary........................................... Who Is My Neighbor, Helena Dueck...................... Disappointments or God's Appointments........... Is The Ash Can Empty, Violet Wright.................... Yesterday We Said Goodbye................................ Reflections, Betty Koop........................................
...Feb. 25 ...Feb. 25 .. .June 2 ..June 16 . .June 30 . .June 30 ...July 28 ....Oct. 6 ...Nov. 17 Nov. 24 . .Nov. 24
LETTERS Concerned Over Trends, Stratton....... Looks For More Testimonies, Winnipeg Lord Hath Done Great Things.............. Enjoy the Messenger, Calgary.............. My Experience of Revival, Pansy......... . Letter to Editor, Fisher Branch............. Real Christianity, Virginia...................... An Avid Messenger Reader, Gretna....... Worth It All, Fisher Branch.................... Likes Positive Note, Africa...................... Time for Church to Awaken, Pansy....... Appreciates Paper, Winnipeg.............. On Praising God, Thompson.................. Setting the Captive Free....................... An Explanation, Winnipeg...................... God Is Able, Portage............................... ExpIo '72 Comes to You, Portage........... Kneeling for Prayer...............................
. .Jan. 14 ..Feb. 11 ..Feb. 25 March 10 March 24 . .April 14 ..April 21 ..April 21 ..April 21 ...June 2 ...June 2 ...June 2 ...June 2 ..July 14 ..Aug. 25 ..Aug. 25 .. Aug. 25 ... Sept. 8
MENNONITE CENTRAL COMMITTEE MCC (Can.) Annual Meeting................................. Vernon Reimer to B.C........................................... MCC (Man.) Annual Meeting............................... Hunger in Bangladesh, M. Shelly........................ World Relief Check Given.................................... Thrift Shop in Altona........................................... Bangladesh .......................................................... Beekeeping in Crete............................................. PAX Man to Zaire................................................. MCC Auction, Saskatchewan............................... MDS Rapid City.................................................... MCC Auction, British Columbia........................... MCC (Man.) Annual Meeting.................................
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March 10 March 24 . .April 21 ...May 19 . .June 2 . .June 16 . .June 16 . .June 30 . .June 30 .. Nov. 17 ..Dec. 15
MESSAGES Significant Principles of the Christian Ministry...................................... Jan. 14, Feb. 11 Dying to Self, H. Klassen............................... ............. July 28 The Nature and Character of the Church, Archie Penner........................................... Aug. 25 Dealing With Sin In Our Lives, Dave Dueck. , Sept. 8 The Fullness of the Holy Spirit, F. P. Kroeker ..Oct. 6 The Christian and Politics............................. Oct. 20 Revival and Missions, Dan Koop.................... Dec. 29
THE MESSENGER
MISCELLANEOUS New Year’s Messages........................... . Count Your Blessings, Mrs Helen Plett. MWC Charter Flights............................. Wit’s End Corner, Mrs Tony Kornelsen. Tells of Prison Life, John Noble........... All Glory to the Risen King.................. The Inner Sanctuary............................. Mother’s Day.......................................... Sod Turning at SBI.................. . .......... . Rules for Bible Study............................. Church Etiquette.................................... Proposals for New Curriculum............. Proposals for Development, Paraguay. Grosvenor Place Alternative to Jail.... Great Rejoicing, SBI Dedication of Gym Helping Others........................................ Only A Widow.........................................
. .Jan. 14 ..Jan. 28 ..Jan. 28 ..Feb. 25 March 10 March 24 . .April 14 ....May 5 ...May 19 .. .June 2 .. .June 2 . .June 30 ...Oct. 20 ...Oct. 20 .. .Nov. 3 ..Nov. 24 ..Dec. 15
MISSIONS Nuggets from a Missionary Conference...................... Jan. 14 Rejoicing at Campo 77, Ed Friesen, Mexico................. Jan. 14 People That Sit in Darkness, Lester Olfert, Nicaragua Jan. 14 Mission Trip to Latin America. J. K. Reimer. .Jan. 14, Jan. 28 New Discoveries, Margaret Penner. B.H...................... Jan, 14 Workers Conference, Paraguay.................................. Jan. 28 Greatest Need, Written Word, Abe Koop, Brazil......... Jan. 28 Laborers Together, Marvin Thiessen........................... Feb. 11 Grass Roots Evangelism, Zaire..................................... Feb. 11 Will They Hear, Wilbert Friesen..................................... Feb. 25 Power of God at Work, Jake Kroeker, Mexico........ Feb. 25 Orientation for New Workers, Steinbach..................... Feb. 25 This Man Wants to Accept Jesus................................... Feb. 25 Henry Won’t Be Back This Year, Abe Giesbrecht.... March 10 The People That Sit in Darkness, Mary Kroeker.... March 10 Thanks for Letters, Mary Brandt, Germany.............. March 10 Bible Studies, Dora Friesen, Mexico......................... March 24 First Americans in Area, Brazil, Dave Sharp............. March 24 Christian Service at RGBI........................................... March 24 A Sunday in Japan, Mary Koop.................................. March 24 Fatal Attack by Moro Indians....................................... March Signs of Revival, Erwin Kroeker, Africa................. .April 14 God Truly is Great, Mexico.............................. April 14 Daddy, Why Does He Drink?......................................... April 14 The Lord at Work, Marilyn Goertzen, Canary Islands April 14 Occasionally a Spider Bite, Tina Barkman, Paraguay April 21 Blessed Visitations, Mexico........................................... April 21 A School That Goes to the Students............................. April 21 Extension Seminary, Mexico................................ ....April 21 Paraguay Worker Retreat.......................................... ..April 21 Many Becoming Christians............................ ■. .April 21 Pakistani to Regina, Ellen Brell....................... May 5 Revival in Nicaragua, Lester Olfert.............. May 5 Germany in Spring, M. Kornelsen............................ .May 5 Feels at Home, Germany, R. Dueck......................... .May 5 I Am an M.K.. Martha Kroeker....................... May 19 Antonia’s Conversion, Dora Friesen, Mexico,'............. May 19 Revival Fires in Mexico, J. Kroeker............................... May 19 The Beautiful Cross, D. Olfert....................................... May 19 Revival, Creighton, Flin Flon, Mrs D. Plett..................... May 19 New Venture: East Paraguay....................... lune 16 Three Decide for Christ, Canada....................... june 16 Mishap at La Esperanza..................................... .....June 16 In Quichua Land, Ecuador.............................. .June 30 Missionary on the Move. Spain.................................. June 30 Keeping Busy in Germany,John Dyck.......... . ............ July 28 Birch River...................................................... . .......... July 28 Burns Lake.................................................................. July 28
Full Schedule, Brazil.......................................................... Aug.11 Dona Lola, Mexico......... . ........ Aug. 11 Great Joy, Nicaragua......................................................... Aug.25 Summer Bible School, Mexico............................. Aug. 25 Thrilling Conversion, Mexico.................................. ...Aug. 25 Joy, Sorrow, Mexico.................. . .............. ................. Sept. 8 Youth Conference, Nicaragua......................... Sept. 22 All Glory to God, Winnipeg................................ Sept. 22 Bible Camps: Europe........................................ . .......... Oct. 6 Arrive in Nicaragua. W. Friesens.................................. Oct. 20 Settling Down: Br. Honduras, Harry Friesen.............. Oct. 20 Blessings, Mexico.......................................................... Nov. 3 Church Growth, Nicaragua.................................. .........Nov. 3 Mom to 22 Children, Ivory Coast............................... . . Nov. 3 Reaping Ecuador.......................................... Nov.17 Snakes, Brazil..................................................................... Nov.17 Reformation Land, Germany............................................ Nov.17 Host Conference. Hudson Bay.......................... Nov.17 We’ve Moved. Panama............................................ Nov.24 Lively Bunch, Shell, Ecuador............................................. Nov.24 Praying Through the Messenger, Amanda Peters... .Dec. 15 God Answered Prayer, Brazil............................................ Dec.15 New Beginnings, Spain....................................................... Dec.15 Nicaraguan Earthquake.......................................... Dec.29 La Paz Church Construction, Nicaragua....... ........... .Dec. 29 MISSIONARY DEPARTURES Harry Koops (Jan. 19).................................... John Doerksens (Feb. 23) Paraguay.............. Verna Doerksen (Feb. 23) Paraguay............. Henry Doerksen (May 31)....................... Donald Plett(May 31).................................... Florence Friesen (July 30)........................... Ron Loewens (MCC)............................. . Wilbert Friesens (Sept. 15)........................... Fred Thiessens (Oct. 24)....................... ......... Harry Friesens (Aug. 30).................. . . Lillie Penner (Dec. 3)...................................... Tina Reimer (Dec. 3)...................................... MISSIONARY ARRIVALS Lillie Penner Germany, (March 16)............. Frank Kroekers (June)............................... Larry McNeills (June)................................. Tina Barkman, Paraguay (Dec. 6)....... . . . Priscilla Reimer, Germany (Dec. 18)......... OBITUARIES Mrs David N. Koop (Dec. 13/71)....... Lome Reimer (Jan. 20)...................... John B. Penner (Dec. 19/71)............. Mr Jacob K. Dueck (Feb. 2).............. Miss Anna D. Rempel (Jan. 31)......... Mrs Katheryn Friesen (Dec. 15/71).. Mrs Henry P. Toews (Feb. 1).............
Cameron Kerry Plett (March 13).... Mr John Neustaeter (March 26)............. Mr Abram Giesbrecht (May 15)......... Margaret Elizabeth Fast (May 26).... Frank Wiebe (June 28)...................... Mrs Helena Schellenberg (June 22). Mr Peter A. Klassen......................... Mrs Mary B. Kornelsen (Aug. 20)....... Mr David D. Friesen (Sept. 8)............. Mrs Helena Ens (Sept. 5).................... Wallace Bruce Plett (Oct. 9)........... . Mr Henry H. Brandt (Nov. 1)..............
.Jan. 28 .Feb. 25 .Feb. 25 .June 2 .June2
Aug. 11 . Sept. 8 .Oct. 20 .. Nov. 3 Sept. 8 .Dec. 15 Dec. 15 April 14 ...June .. .June .Dec. 15
. Dec. 29 . .Jan. 28 .. Feb. 11 ..Feb. 25 . .Feb. 25 ..Feb. 25 March 10 March 10 . .April 14 . .April 21 .. .June 2 . .June 30 . .July 14 ..July 14 ..July 28 .. .Sept. 8 ...Oct. 6 ...Nov. 3 ...Nov. 3 ..Nov. 17
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December 29,1972
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hurt away and he was free from that bur den. Another minister testified that as a minister he too needed daily deliverance. The honourable Walter Dinsdale, M.P. from Souris and Brandon, was present at the afterglow and shared how he took Jesus Christ with him to Ottawa. God has done great things in this city and we expect Him to do much more. On December 2, the Mary Martha Mission Group had a successful bake sale. Then on December 12 our church had their Christ mas banquet. After a delicious meal and some entertainment we had an informative report by Joe and Olga Reimer, who are missionaries under The Evangelical Alliance Mission and are on their way to Trinidad. They also showed a film depicting some of the culture of the Trinidadians, more spe cifically their annual carnival revealing their need of Christ. The Junior Young People were well represented on November 5 when the film "Whiter than Snow" was shown. That following Friday, at their meeting, six of the children made decisions for Christ. Pictured here, left to right, at the recent Krahn lectures at the SBI are John C. On November 6 the Beaver Lake Bible Reimer, Curator, Mennonite Museum, Steinbach;, Cornelius Krahn, Newton, Kan Camp had their annual meeting at our sas; Harvey Plett, president, Steinbach Bible Institute; and Abe Unger, minister at chapel. Mr and Mrs John Thiessen who are Landmark, Man. in charge of the Canadian Sunday School Mission in Winnipeg were out that evening. Mr Thiessen appointed Peter and Kathy Friesen as the new camp directors because Mr and Mrs John Newransky, who have 2) Those who want to register but have Tracing the Anabaptist/Mennonite been working at the camp for four years, movement over a period of some 400 years not yet so far. feel led by the Lord to move elsewhere. 3) Those who refuse to register. These in a series of illustrated lectures at the On December 9 and 10 we were privileged SBI Dec. 11-13 was Cornelius Krahn of are those who feel that if they register to have Mr and Mrs Ben Friesen and Mr and Bethel college. Dr. Krahn has been on they downgrade God because they are Mrs Henry Kornelsen in our midst. On Sun the faculty of the college since 1944 and asking permission from a Government day morning Rev. Kornelsen spoke to us on to worship God. teaches in the field of Mennonite history Philippians 4:4-7 with special emphasis on and Church History. He was born in Rus verse 4. "Rejoice in the Lord always (not Mr Krahn also was able to visit the sia and has been in Russia four times since anyway but always) and again I say Re place of his birth in Southern Russia. In 1970. joice". We as Christians are above or In speaking about church life in Russia some places people would travel for two dinary. Everything in life is a test of faith today Mr Krahn pointed out that there days and two nights to meet them. He but as Christians we have a special power to also was able to meet with his brothers were the following three groups: deal with the various circumstances. "Cir and sisters after 40 years separation. 1) The registered churches cumstances against us will either make us bitter or better—bring us closer to God or CREIGHTON figuration". Jesus. Peter, James and John bring us farther away." I'm sure everyone went up into the mountain. After their hearing the message that morning went "He touched me, oh He touched me, and mountain top experience. Jesus said we away a different person. oh the joy that floods my soul, something must go down into the valley to meet man at happened and now I know. He touched me his point of need. What about our need or "Though Jesus Christ in Bethlehem hurt? Jesus can touch us and take that hurt A thousand times be born and made me whole.” This theme prevailed at the evangelistic away and if Jesus touches us we will never If He's not born within thy heart service held at the Lutheran Church on be the same again. We can be a real person Thou art a soul forlorn." in Jesus Christ if we but "Let go and let God November 24 by Captain Leo Porter. This was the theme of the play, "Is The service started with the interdenom have His Wonderful Way". Christ in Your Christmas?", that was pre inational choir singing "Spirit of God De A number of people let God have His way sented by the young people at our Sunday scend Upon My Heart". Later in the pro in their lives that night. School Christmas Program on December 17. It was just great to hear mature Christians The children had put a lot of work into the gram they sang, "To God Be the Glory " and "Let God and Let God Have His Won and newborn babes in Christ tell about program and their results were much ap derful Way." A group of young people their experiences with Christ at the after preciated by the adults. The membership of Northern Fellowship called the "One Way " also gave a testi glow that night. One minister told us about mony in song and the Pentecostal church how he had been hurt by people in his Chapel join together in wishing all the congregation. accusing him unjustly readers of The MESSENGER a very joyous was in charge of a special number as well. Captain Porter spoke about the "trans- about things. Now he had let God take that Christmas and a blessed New Year.
Mennonite Historian at SBI
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THE MESSENGER
ROSENORT
Rev Gordon Johnson of the Rio Grande Bible Institute was guest speaker at our Mission night on October 29. Mrs Dan Klassen of Portage la Prairie was guest speaker at our Ladies Fellow ship on November 5. Many of us knew her only by her articles in the MESSEN GER or Home Loving Hearts. It was a pleasure to meet her face to face and shake her hand. The evening was a real blessing. The wedding of Carol Friesen and Cornie Janzen took place on November 11. Rev. Gerry Doerksen officiated. They are residing in Blumenort. The Youth Choir presented an inspir ing program on November 19. "What would summer be like without song birds or a church without a choir?” was a remark made in closing. A special thank you goes to the choir and to their director, Mr Lome Kornelsen, for their vital contribution to the church. We enjoyed a time of blessing during our missionary conference November 30 to December 3. Rev. Frank P. Kroeker challenged us with these messages. The Man of Missions, The Must of Missions, The Means for Missions, The Message of Missions and the Method of Missions. Reports were given by Maria Koop, Andrew Friesen, Agnes Friesen and the Abe Pletts, Mr and Mrs Harry Bartel of Kleefeld gave their testimonies one night and a group from Kleefeld sang. Rosenort Fellowship and Morris Fellowship also served with special numbers and testimonies. Instead of our December ladies meet ing, we again had a visitation night visiting some of our older folks and those that are lonely. We enjoy this very much and feel it should be done oftener. At the December 10 young peoples meetingg "The Fruit of the Spirit Spirit" quartet of Winnipeg served with some wonderful music and singing. Rev. Cornie Plett, pastor of the Braeside Church, Winni peg, had the message. Congratulations to Jake and Bertha Kroeker, Mexico on the birth of Kel vin Joel, Dec. 7,1972. Rev. Jacob B. Kroeker, former leader of this church, and now at the Resthaven, Steinbach observed his 90th birthday on December 17 with most of the family taking part. Mr John W. Siemens has recovered to the extent that he was released from the hospital after a six month stay. He is staying with his children, the Pete Siemens. December 29,1972
Funeral services for Mr Jacob Letkeman took place on November 19. Deepest sympathy goes to the family. Mr Abram R. Klassen passed away after a brief illness. Funeral services were held on December 22. Condolences go also to this family at this time.
BURNS LAKE
During the last few weeks all the chil dren in the Sunday School have been busy memorizing parts and learning new songs. Everyone had a part in the Christ mas program from the smallest nursery tots right up to the grandparents in the adult class. December 17, was the big day! In the morning the younger chil dren from nursery through primary, pre sented a program. They sang a number of the old carols and also introduced a few new ones to the congregation. The children also presented several different aspects of the Christmas story. They emphasized the fact that Jesus was not only born a baby but He was, and still is, the Savior. A message by John Knelsen finished off the program very well. The evening program consisted of parts by the junior and intermediate depart ments, and a play by the youth and adult classes. The juniors emphasized the Diety of Christ while the intermediates brought out the fact that He was, and is, the Light of the world. The play, "The Rose of Sharon”, brought out the tact that even though we cannot see Christ we can still serve Him in everything we do. It was the story of an old lady in a flower shop, and the three roses she wanted to take to the Christmas service. But dur ing the day several people came into the shop and she ends up giving all her beautiful roses away. But Christ receives her gift and she realizes that by helping others she was actually serving her Lord. On Saturday, December 16, the young people enjoyed a Christmas banquet in the church basement. The turkey and trimmings were tremendous!! This week three of our Bible School students are expecting to come home for the holidays. Helen Fehr will be travel ling with the Ron Pletts from Stein bach. They plan to arrive here sometime on Christmas eve. Tina Fehr and Jake Wiebe will be coming home sometime on Thursday, December 21. Bruce Thomas is planning to stay in Sexsmith to catch up on some studying during the holidays. Pray for these students as they travel. We are still looking for a permanent pastor. Continue to pray with us about this matter.
ABE BARKMAN 1946-1972 "For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." H Cor. 5:11 It pleased our Heavenly Father to call our beloved son and brother Abe home on December 2, 1972 at 9:00 p.m. after an accident earlier in the day. Abe was born on September 8, 1946 in Steinbach. He reached the age of 26 years, 2 months and 24 days. Abe’s younger years were spent at Blumenhof, Manitoba. In 1952 his parents moved, with their family, to Mennville, north of Riverton, Man. It was here that Abe received his schooling and grew up to manhood. At the age of fifteen he realized his lost condition and accepted Christ as his Saviour. On July 22, 1962 he was baptized by Rev. D. P. Thiessen and accepted into the Evangelical Mennonite Conference here at Mennville, where he remained a faithful member till his death. Abe was quiet by nature. He was not known to argue or complain, but could be depended upon to do his work well. In the past Abe has spent much time as a cat operator. People for whom he worked still have a word of appreciation for his gen tleness as an operator. The last three years Abe was mostly at home and worked on his rented farm at Homer.
It was about two and a half years ago after he had been sick with jaundice that we started to notice that he was quite depressed. During this time he spent much time alone and talked very little. When he was asked what was bothering him, there would be no response. Conse quently we can only guess what many have been the reasons for his depressed condition. Many prayers have gone up for him during this time. We thank our Hea venly Father that since last spring we could notice a gradual release from his depressed state. Three signs of his improve ments were 1) that he started to mingle a little more with people, 2) that he again took up a job for the winter, a week before his fatal accident, and 3) he spent more time reading the Bible and other CHRISTIAN books. Although Abe didn't say much about his relationship with the Lord, we are thankful that there are several things we have noticed which tell us that he loved his Saviour. The first evening that he was at Jenpeg, during a conversation, Abe told one of his fellow employees, a young Christian, he had already read his Page 11
Bible through twice. This young Christian was immediately challenged to read more himself. The last morning before Abe left camp he had made his bed with the New Testament lying on top of it, telling us that he loved God's Word. Abe left home for the last time on Mon day, November 27, 1972 to work at Jenpeg, Manitoba for Jake Martens, for whom he had worked some 5 years before his ill ness. On Saturday, December 2, around 11:00 a.m., while clearing bush with a crawler and dozer, a tree hit him on the head causing his brain to be damaged. His employer, Jake Martens was near enough to notice that something was wrong. He asked Abe a question, but there was no response. Jake Martens quickly took him to the first aid station. From here he was accompanied by the first aid man and taken by helicopter to the hospital in Norway House, where he was given some preliminary treatments. From there he was then flown to Winni peg where he arrived at 4:30 at the Gen eral Hospital. By this time there was a blood clot in his brain. Doctors operated on him, but to no avail. His appointed time had come to meet his Maker. We trust Abe has gone ahead to meet his Redeemer and leaves behind his parents, Mr and Mrs Jacob R. Bark man, five brothers and six sisters: Ade line and Dave Brandt, Blumenort; Elma and Pete Reimer, Stratton; Ben and Caro line Barkman, Riverton; Tina (just back from Paraguay, having served two years in Christian Service) Cornie and Erna Barkman, Riverton, Melvin and Arlene Barkman, Riverton; Margaret, Gimli; Jake, Werner, Anna and Orla at home. 23 nephews and nieces, many uncles, aunts, cousins and friends. We wish to thank all those who have helped and comforted and prayed for us during these days. A special thanks goes to Rev. Frank Kroeker who spent a considerable amount of time trying to get the news to sister Tina at La Esper anza, Paraguay. Above all we are so greatful to the Lord that he has prepared a home in heaven for His children which makes it possible for us to say with Paul, "For me to live is Christ and to die is gain." Philippians 1:21 The family
Ontario’s Education Minister Thomas WeIJs states that the regulation requiring a Scripture reading and prayers in schools each day should be followed. The official proposed an ecumenical prayer—a prayer
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the MESSENGER
acceptable to all faiths—be used. He suggested it might take the form of a moment of silence each day. Minister Wells said some prayers are unsuitable for Jewish students and other religious minorities. The regulation on school prayer and Bible reading was implemented by the Progressive Conservative government of George Drew in 1944. *
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William T. Little has described tobacco companies as "merchants of death" and challenged the federal government to put them out of business. The Toronto family court judge said in an interview the government knows smoking causes lung cancer but it "compromises with tobacco lobbyists because it might have to replace the annual $550 million tax revenue from tobacco with something else.” "I say they are merchants of death and should be put out of business,” said Judge Little. "Let the government raise its tax from other sources.” *
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Miss Warkentin, now on furlough, said that eight to twelve new doctors graduate each year in Zaire,, the level of education seems to be lower than in the past. However, these new doctors’ desire to work in rural areas provides more medical hope for these areas of the country. In the early ’6O’s, she said, forty doctors graduated from medical schools in France, but were reluctant to set up practice in rural areas. New graduates are not interested in upgrading university-level education. Miss Warkentin said. But as the country becomes financially more stable, the situation will change. « * *
STEINBACH BIBLE INSTITUTE INVITES YOU
Did you know that you can still take some Bible school training
sk
Manioc, the staple food plant for the people of Zaire, has been struck by blight, especially in the Bandundu and Kasai regions. The blight has affected about one and a half million people. The people cannot easily substitute other food plants. Vern Preheim, MCC director in Zaire, reports that many schools have closed as a result of the critical food situation. "There will be a general food shortage through 1974,” Preheim wrote. "This can be reduced by distribution of seeds and by multiplication of disease resistant varieties of manioc." Preheim met, Nov. 9, with local church and mission leaders to plan emergency relief efforts for the disease-stricken areas. MCC is releasing $2,000 to buy food locally, working with other local and international relief agencies. * * * New physicians in Zaire are more interested in working in rural areas than their predecessors, said Tina Warkentin, who, under the auspices of Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission, has been working in the administrative office of an interdenominational hospital in Kimpese, Zaire.
this winter? The Steinbach Bible Institute extends an invitation for you to come and study at the In stitute for the Second Semester.
Second
Semester begins on
January 3 and goes to March 23.
You can study such subjects as O.T. History, Acts, Evangelism, Theology, Music, General Epist les, and many others.
Registration is on January 3, 9:00 a.m. We shall be looking for
you. Ben Friesen, Public Relations Steinbach Bible Institute Box 1420, Steinbach, Man.
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