The Messenger October 5, 1973

JUS

The lead article in the MESSENGER today deals with some of the problems facing Christen

dom in general and the businessman in particular. The Social Concerns committee of the Conference is to be commended for taking on a sensitive social issue. The three writers

a businessman, a minister and a farmer

are all members of the EMC Social Concerns

Committee.

Duty of Christians to Law Enforcement by John Koop “Repay no one evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all.” Romans 12:17 RSV A. T. Robertson writes that to take thought for what is noble means, "taking thought beforehand "! In other words think through how you should act in a given situation. In this article we would like to assist such thinking in regards to our relationship to the Law Enforcement officers of our country. Perhaps we could start by stating three possibilities: 1. To be neutral towards the law. 2. To be unco-operative towards the law. 3. To be an assistant to the law. It seems to the writer that we have sought to be neutral as to the law. Both police and criminal were considered invaders or at least intruders into our life of peace. It is possible that this idea is part of our heritage of being Anabaptist outlaws where police and magistrate were feared as much as criminals, as to our safety. It is also possible that we as Evangelical Mennonites also react historically to the force used in Russia to subdue the Mennonites in our Russian villages. The protest of Klaas Reimer against the members of the church, punishing evil doers by physical force, and then celebrat­ ing communion, is well known. Neutrality in practice is not a real possibility. Where we are in­ volved we must take sides. This can be illustrated by the fact of being physical beings, we always are present at one place, never at two places or at no place. The question then is, when involved with the law, how? Unco-operatively? Revengefully? As an assistant? Whose side do I take? How do I decide? In one conversation it was stated, "If the brother had known that the offender was also a brother he would not have reported. " That is likely a "respecter ot persons stance and needs some rethinking. In questioning a police officer about co-operation I was told that

Page 2

parents often reported that their car had been stolen by one of their own children but would refuse to sign a charge. They were interested in getting their vehicle back but not to be further in­ volved in the child's actions. Whereas the police were concerned about the apprehension of the thief, and the punishing of the offender, which is the real purpose of the law. He also said that,

the selfish interest of individuals in having their property found and returned was the reason why the police asked the person reported if he was "laying a charge" so as to weed out the genuine thefts from the household arguments. Paul wa iting to the Romans says: "They are God's agents of pun­ ishment, ...that is why you are obliged to submit...The authorities are in God's service and to these duties they devote their energies." Romans 13: 4. 5, 6 NEB Vernon C. Grounds writes: “We owe the state the duty of obed­ ience and obedience means a hearty compliance with the laws which have been duly enacted. " It goes without saying that there are limits to such obedience. But the general conduct of the believ­ er ought to be in co-operation and assistance to our police force. This should be evidenced by our conversation as well as by action. The nicknames given to police, such as "fuzz", is an in­ dication of disrespect. If we have knowledge of crime it is our duty to assist our police. It should not be a matter of financial cost that decides the issue but those actions that are definite breaches of the law and in particular those that endanger other people. We must have a concern for our neighbour. Our stand therefore should be to assist the law in keeping “law and order” but always keep in mind that we are "sons of God", we have more at stake than headlines. The criminal also is a man for whom Christ died. All men need the ‘new law' written in their hearts to create real law and order. That must always be upper­ most in our thinking as to any actions we take. THE MESSENGER

I

The Christian and Bad Debts by Harold Plett

What steps, if any, should a Christian take in collecting bad debts? This question has come up in the Social Concerns commit­ tee of the Conference and I have been asked to write on it. Per­ mit me to make the following observations. When we refer to bad debts we mean smaller or bigger accounts that have not been met, as agreed on at the time of transaction, either privately or in business. As a committee we have approached quite a few Christian businessmen, as well as drawn on our own experiences, and that of other private people, as to how they go about collecting bad ac­ counts. To the committee’s surprise it was found that in practically all cases the laws were not used to coerce the guilty one in court to — “Pay in full what you owe ”. The following answers were received: 1. It isn't Biblical to collect by coercion. 2. To collect in such a way brought disrespect to the business and community. 3. In most cases it didn’t bring in satisfactory results anyway. 4. Very often bitter enemies were made. In looking to God’s word for some guidelines along this subject we found some interesting observances. When a certain man asked Jesus to “speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me,” the answer was, ‘Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of things which he possesseth. ” Luke 12; 13,15 In Romans 13: 8, 9, 10 the direction given seems to indicate that, “Thou shall not covet...for love worketh no ill to his neighbor.”

Another guideline is noted in I. Cor. 6:1-8. Here the idea comes out quite strongly that if one Christian has a matter with another Christian they are to seek the help of a wise man in the church. The text even goes so far as to say, "Why do ye not rather take wrong? Why do ye not rather suffer yourselves to be de­ frauded?” This seems to be quite contrary to our human nature to “get ahead in life", doesn't it? Coming to grips with the issue of "collecting” in our day we would like to think of the reasons for the bad debt. 1. Was the sale made under unusual sales pressure? 2. Was the sale made with purely selfish reasons? 3. Did both parties clearly know the conditions of the trans­ action? 4. Was the vendor aware of the customer’s limited funds, or irresponsible nature? In the actual collecting procedure we would endeavour to give the following guidelines. 1. Never forfeit your Christian convictions or ethics for mere dollars. 2. Keep avenues of communications open at all times. 3. One tried and successful way is to simply contact your party in an orderly, punctual, continuous, firm but friendly manner either by mail, phone, telegraph or in person. 4. Consider the Golden Rule approach. 5. Another tried and proven approaches to, “Commit thy way unto the Lord, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass.” 6. Acquire the help and counsel of wise men in the church.

Litigation? Yes dr No? by Abe Bartel

The question of litigation in the brotherhood and our stand re­ garding this matter is being raised in the brotherhood. How in the true sense do we define the term “litigation” and how does it apply to a Christian brotherhood? For a true perspective we go to two sources of information re­ garding this matter: the principal as regarded by legal transaction by our courts of law of our land where disputes between individuals or parties can be settled by legal procedures or lawsuits if unable or unwilling to do so by amiable means. Legally most or many disputes are settled according to laws and rules of the “Bill of Rights” set down by the courts of our land. But the question is how or to what degree can, or cannot the cit­ izens of the heavenly kingdom resort and make use of the rights of the citizens of the kingdom of darkness? I suggest to you that children of the Heavenly King are guided and motivated not by legalistic motives, but rather by the “law October 5,1973

of love”. These principals we have defined for us in the Word of God which is the supreme authority for citizens of Light. We find a very specific portion of Scripture speaking to this very problem in I Cor. 6:1-10, especially verse 7, “Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law with one another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? Why do ye not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded?” Some Christians feel that all this is beautiful teaching but that it cannot be followed strictly when one has been taken advantage of. It should be observed that if one is to live in the spirit of these verses, then the supreme value of this teaching is experienced pre­ cisely in those cases in which it is tested severely. There is nothing Christian about an attitude where one loves only those who are loving. But if one is able to take a redemptive attitude; to show a forgiving spirit; to suffer rather than to retaliate, he is behaving Page 3

exactly as the children of God ought to behave. He resembles the Lord Jesus Himself. "Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again: when he suffered, threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously." I Peter 2:23. VANDALISM What is our course of action in vandalism; the willful destruc­ tion of our property? As children of an eternal Kingdom we again ask the question, "What would Jesus do?" Is the mind of Christ to demand restitution for personal property damage? Is our motive one of "agape love" or righteous indignation? Laying of charges under such conditions has to be done for a restitution for vandals as also for return of stolen property. We find that action on one's behalf is not taken unless charges are made. What then should regulate our actions? Since by nature we tend to look to our interests we find that the "law of the Spirit” has a different motivating factor as put forth by Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, (Matthew 5:39-40) "But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite three on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if any

ILi®'(fe'(b®rF© PAACAS NOVAS INDIAN POST: BRAZIL

Greetings in wonderful Lord and Sa­ viour's name! I would like to express my appreciation for you sending the Messenger to me by air. That way news gets here a little soon­ er and besides it does help us to keep in contact of what is going on in the churches at home. It seems quite a while since I've last written. The Devil is busy and the believ­ ers here have been proved. Praise God for the victory He has given. One young Indian fellow stole another Indian's wife shortly after Christmas last year. Her

husband was at a TB sanatorium at the time. He is back now. Just recently this man (who took his wife) returned to­ gether with the woman, that is to the village below here. The relatives of the woman went there and took the woman and brought her back here. They also threatened the fellow. But if this had happened before they became Christians a reall battle would have ensued. The man's relatives would take one side and the woman’s in the other side and they would clobber each other with hard sticks till the blood flowed. We have been pray­ ing. The spiritual leaders have been work­ ing on the situation that it will not go that far. The group that is involved has not been in contact with the Word of God very long. Some of them definately are

man sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also.” Verse forty-four should be our motivating decision in all these matters where personal rights are in danger of being in­ fringed upon, "But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.” May God deliver us from all rationalization to justify unloving behaviour, and may He fill us with such love that we are able under all circumstances to suffer wrong rather than do wrong; never to be overcome of evil, but to overcome evil with good. Glossary Litigation: Legal proceedings; engage in a lawsuit, to contest in a court of law; 1 Cor. 6:1-9. Extortion: I Cor. 6:10, offence of taking by threat or force money or valuables not due: excessively demanding, oppressive. N.Y. penal code defines: obtaining of property from another, with his consent, induced by a wrongful use of force or fear, or under cover of official right. Vandalism: To wilfully destroy property, etc.

Christians but some of them are not. Both Seila and I told the man (who lost his wife) that if she wanted to come back to him that he should forgive her and take her back. At first he said he didn’t want her anymore. We could understand that. But it wouldn't be what God would want him to do. Just tonight we heard through another Indian that he does want her back now. So we praise the Lord for the victory he has given. The Indians continue their meetings on Saturday nights and Sundays. A few weeks ago they had the Lord's supper and it was a blessing and encouragement to be with them. We are expecting two missionary cou­ ples to return to the work here soon. We are happy to have more help. My co-work­ er Seila will be taking her furlough after they arrive. I expect to be working with one of the couples during the time that she will be gone. ' Thank you to all those who are praying and giving so faithfully! Also the letters are much appreciated. The Lord has done great things and will do great things as we allow Him to work in us and through us. Elizabeth Koop, Caixa Postal 35 Gaujara Mirim Terr. Fed. de Rondonia, Brazil

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

The motel room was "home” to us for 12'» days. On Sept. 3 at 8 a.m. Josephine found herself at a large modern high school cam­ pus. On Sept. 17 Monica and Evangeline entered a Spanish Elementary school. Josie’s classes run from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday thru Saturday. The other two girls have classes 8 a.m. to 1 .p.m. Monday thru Friday. All three have had adjust­ ment struggles but the Lord is undertaking for them. Another note of praise is the three bed­ room house we were able to rent at $64 a month. The house is not ultra-modern but has a fair-sized front lawn and back­ yard with shade trees (this is rare for La­ tin cities). The elementary school is two blocks from here and Josie's bus stop is a block away. Edward made one trip to Picacho for some furniture but we still use our camp­ er for sleeping. His next trip, the Lord willing, will be to Santa Tomas, and La Nortina to visit the brethren and get some of our belongings. Ernestly pray for us, that we might be to the "praise of His glory” in this new en­ vironment. Please take note of our new address: Mr and Mrs Edward Friesen No. 503 Rep. Dominicana Col. Panamericana Chihuahua, Chihuahua Mexico.

We are thankful for arriving safely at Santa Rita Motel on Sept. 2, 9:30 p.m.

The Messenger is the publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. Its purpose is to inform, instruct and inspire. In­ form as to what is going on in the Conference. Instruct in Godliness and victorious living. Inspire to earnestly contend for the faith. All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor D. K. Schelleliberg. Views expressed in Letters to the Editor are not Viecessarily those of the editor nor of the paper. Unpublished letters are not returned except by request. Subscription: Members pay through their church. Non-members $1.00 per year. 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. THE MESSENGER Page 4

Along the Way One of the added bonuses for me when away from home is the opportunity to visit other churches. There are always things one can learn if one is observant. Since there were three of us, wife, daughter and I, on this particular Sunday morning we first had to settle the question of where to go. We finally decided on a church and proceeded to the address given. When we got there we found it looked more like a schoolhouse with a steeple than a church. Daughter especially was not too impressed. And there were only about three cars outside. So we left. We still had quite a bit of time so I found the address of another one which I had gotten from the telephone dir­ ectory. We got to the street but had difficulty finding it. Eventually we saw a church which could be close to the right number. Without looking for a sign we parked the car and pro­ ceeded to the entrance. A number of young people were congregated here but they ignored us and what should we see but that it was a Catholic church and the service pro­ bably already over. So we hurried away from there. Now we were running out of time and so I said we’d have to go to ---------------church because we had been to this church before and knew where it was. And away we went. We parked the car and hurried in because by now we were close to the 11:00 a.m. deadline. I strode right in to the lobby, leaving daughter and wife who were a little more timid trailing behind. No doubt they were also a little dubious because the sermon seemed to be in progress already. But I continued to search for the ent­ rance to the sanctuary. There were some people around but no one volunteered any help. When I had gone to the far end of the lobby and turned around I already saw my wife frantically beckoning me. “This is a ______________ church,” she gasped. So we got out of there fast. When driving away we noticed that the service had begun at 10:30 at that particular church, and it was not the one we were looking for. My error lay in the fact that this church was almost adjacent to the one I had in mind and happened to come first on that street. Driving another block or so, we finally came upon the church we were headed for. This church had two services scheduled for Sunday morn­ ing and the second service was still so crowded that we hardly found room to sit. The usher was apologetic but what could he do? The message was exeptional, I thought. The minister outlined the problem and then proceeded to give the answer, from the Word. Neither did he spare the October 5,1973

congregation. What about the congregation? I think it was typical. The people were friendly—to each other. They had lots to talk about, but obviously not to us. Wanting to strike up a conversation I addressed a young man with a beard stand­ ing on the sidelines only to find out that he too was a first­ time visitor. Maybe they had just missed me so I asked him if he had been welcomed and greeted to which he only re­ plied, “Not yet." (The service was over.) Not knowing what I should do next I stood around a little while longer and went out via the pastor who asked me for my name and assured me of their pleasure at having me wor­ ship with them. Whether wife and daughter fared any better I don’t know because I didn’t ask them. Had they anything different to report I believe they would have told me. The last scene in this drama came when we stopped at a Holiday Inn for lunch after the service and another couple also had just driven in and were also proceeding into the restaurant. They were complete strangers, but the man re­ marked to me whether maybe we had left our lights on and I assured him we had not. But it was this friendly approach which led to a brief time of delightful fellowship. They had just come from Canada and were on the way home to Kansas. We were on our way home to Camada, from where they had come. A few pleasantries were ex­ changed. They were high in their praise for our excellent rail service. (They had gone to Banff via CPR.) And before we parted we even exchanged some surplus cash each of us had from the other country! Before we parted I handed them a little booklet, which they very graciously received. They would read it. Vlhy does it have to be like this in our churches! We went to a church (with Bible in hand), yet no one made an effort to engage us in conversation regarding why we had come or where we were from, while at the same time having much to talk about among themselves. We went to a rest­ aurant, met a lovely couple, complete strangers, who in­ itiated the conversation and we had a delightful time to­ gether, fellowship if you please. I have no bones to pick with the church we attended. I’m sure it is a lively dynamic church blessed of God but it happens to be stricken with the same malady with which our churches are stricken, “Let someone else go and speak to them.” —D.S. Cover Photo: September comes to Assiniboine Park in West Winnipeg.

Page 5

In the previous issue of MESSENGER Mrs Nellie Loewen gave us a description of their experiences at Wycliff Bible Translators Jungle camp. Main Base. Today she tells of life at Advance Base. The Loewens are accepted missionaries under the EMC Board of Missions and expect to leave for Indonesia early in 1974. ■i

' •• V

The completed family dwelling of a Wycliffe Bible translator in Advance Base, Jungle Camp. On picture are Mrs Loewen and children. The small shelter on right is the "Kids Champa".

Life at Jungle Camp II by Nellie Loewen Main Base is over. The open sky is left smoke to confound the bugs. Ladies, our behind as campers are moved into the dense latest GE oven couldn't turn out better jungle for the second period - "advance cakes and buns. Skillet baking consists of piling hot coals onto the lid of a batterbase" on Lake Ocotal. The challenge is given. . .pretend you're filled pan and placing it on top of the alone in a tribe in New Guinea - you've stove. PRESTO - heat on top and bottom. Eggs are more bountiful than meat. been trained in proper food preparation When your allotment turns out to be one and good hygiene in disease-ridden areas. Your closest neighbor is two mountain­ hundred eggs in one week, the problem ranges away, so you’re on your own. Here is to dream up new recipes to camouflage are some poles and some bark - build an - no, destroy - the original sight and taste . . let's eat the chicken so she can't add open shelter and some furniture. . . but if you need help. . .just ask (The to the egg collection! Chop off her head with your machete, staff does remain kind!. and. . YOU'RE SUPPOSED TO HOLD Social interaction is kept at a minimum. oh, well a Only the occasional class re-unites the ONTO HER LEGS!!!L group. In a real situation, the translator splash of red should add some color to the walls.. and table.. .and beds. will also be isolated from his own people for approximately six out of every 12 months. Supplies and emergency trips will be provided by a JAARS aircraft - Jungle Aviation and Radio Service, an arm of Wycliffe. Six weeks of jungle life. The mud stove is built. Several tin cans piled high form the chimney which now belches out thick Page 6

Life goes on and the campers are in­ structed on jungle survival should they get lost - use of compass, how to build a survival shelter, what is good firewood, which plants are edible, and how to "blaze" a trail for the rescue party. All men on survival - right now! Wave good-bye, climb into the boat and well drop you off so you can "get lost" for sev­ eral days. Women and children are left unexpected­ ly alone at home and asked "to please re­ frain from socializing. " The camp seems suddenly jinxed. . leaving their dark brush cover to frolic in the open sunlight, illiterate snakes appear on land areas marked FOR PEOPLE ONLY. Bats, becoming even bolder, approach at night and steal the kids' favorite snacks, ripe bananas; while some nocturnal traveller braves its way through the kitchen to suck out the eggs on the counter top. (Hope he brings a friend along tomorrow night. Fifty eggs to go.. .) Three days later, the men return, hag­ gard from lack of sleep. . .and food. It's a bit rough, sleeping on poles, and keeping the fire going all night. Besides providing warmth, fires also serve to keep away unnecessary animal intruders during the night. Some fires stubbornly refuse to burn, others refuse to quit and are still flaring up into brush fires days later, de­ spite repeated dunkings. Snails don’t measure up to buttered lobster and taste buds accurately interpret those "edible plants ’ to resemble the flavor of grass but spirits are high. They've had a "oncein-a-lifetime experience. (Hopefully only once). Just some soup, please to re­ acquaint the stomach with food. Next week, the ladies leave, and fellows play house: cooking, hanging out and fold­ ing laundry and keeping the children con>v.

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Qjf

spend several days in the Tzel-

tai villages.

October 5,1973

U'

1

tent. “So you've never in your life rinsed A shadow falls and close friends say a dirty diaper, Don...tsk! tsk! farewell, knowing the group will be dis­ All is well. No serious illnesses have be­ persed to all corners of the earth. fallen the campers, no snake-bites to "Hope we meet again. . .but if not, then treat, no broken spirits to mend. Body and we ll see you in Heaven." soul have become strong. You can feel it: At least 2.000 more languages “for the it has been the Lord’s training. Jungle Lord to speak" before all people will be Camp has merely been a tool. given a chance to hear His gospel. Support personnel - pilots, teachers, ac­ As the plane lifts and carries eager countants, nurses, radiomen, plumbers campers back to civilization, a prayer and carpenters prepare to return home, rises to the throne of grace... Not many will be in such a primitive . thru this work. Lord draw the hearts setting again. Wycliffe base life is physi- of many people from every nation and toncally easier than tribal living, but they gue to the love of Jesus." The invitation have tasted the life of a translator and to the King’s feast is all-inclusive, shared his physical preparation. When Sit down, sit down! necessary, they will be able to enter a Have a bite. tribe comfortably now to participate in special projects which promote the work “Have I been a good boyof Bible Translation. with cookies due me?" Translators are scattered in pairs to separate villages for their third six-week "No. notraining period. They will experience this is an ‘unwashed' party, the problems and isolation of actual tribal invites to sinners only. living. Recalling linguistic training, they Come, join uswill study and analyze the Tzeltal lan­ not to brawl guage in greater depth and also provide a but to shed your skin." literacy program for their village. People must first learn to read before they can (Ken Pike) truly appreciate the written Word of God.

but did our own programing, which con­ sisted of singing, Bible stories with flannel­ graph, verse memorization, play, treats, tricks and then closed with a Missionary story. It was a thrill to work together with our Christian young people as they took part in teaching the Word of God and in sup­ ervising play etc. Each day one of the fam­ ilies supplied the children with a treat which the children delighted in. Those who were able to make it pos­ sible, went out to Bible Camp on the last week-end of July. If we would look at numbers we might not call it a suc­ cess but those who were there enjoyed the quietness of nature the evening devo­ tions as Rev. George Braun spoke to us and the ball game later, with some of the Kola You’h. The food was devoured with great appetite. Then to cut the few days short some hurried away because of threatening rains. The camp with its activities need your prayers! More work has to be done, which will involve a fair amount of money, to give the camp the needed facilities. Our desire is that the Camp would be put to more use for the Lord's name sake. As a family, we were away the month of August, visiting different fields in the north. Last of all our trip took us to Three Hills, Alberta to an Intermission Indian FIRST WEDDING Conference. Here we met many native and white missionaries from across our continent. The Lord gave us new The family of the bride were busy with insight in what He is doing amongst the the many detailed preparations. To add Indian people. During our absence Rev. Art Neufeld to them, the Chapel basement needed face lifting, painting etc. to make it pre­ and brother Ernest Koop served the group here. We want to express our ap­ sentable. During the months of preparations preciation to the brethren for their help. “Brethren pray for us.” I Thess. 5:25. Frank together with the young couple, were able to have Bible studies. The Frank Brauns The bride wore a lovely white gown, trimmed with yellow centred lace daisies and velvet bow. The bridesmaid and flow­ er girl wore yellow lace gowns to match. It was a pretty and happy occasion. COMING EVENTS Many friends came to rejoice with the young couple, to share in the delicious fellowship supper and to wish them well. October 20 - EMC Sunday School super­ intendants meeting. 10:00 a.m. to Dave and Mildred are making their Dave and Mildred were married on home at the Av-za-we-Kwun Centre, where 1:30 p.m. Braeside. June 30. October 20 - Eden Mental Health Center both are employed. The special activities for the month annual meeting at the EMB church in Steinbach, 2:00 p.m. Spring and summer bring about various of July were DVBS, Family Camp and on the weekend of the 22nd we were privil­ October 29-Nov. 3 - Basic Youth Semi­ activities with joys and excitment. nar, St. Paul, Minn. First I’d like to tell you about Dave Pas- eged to have Rev. and Mrs Ted Standing­ kee and Mildred McKays wedding, which elk from Wounded Knee, South Dakota November 11-18 - Missionary Confer­ with us, for a special service Saturday ence. Steinbach took place June 30th. You who are experiencing frequent night and they also took the service Sun­ November 24 - MCC (Manitoba) annual meeting North Kildonan Mennonite weddings in your community, might not day morning. The Lord blessed our hearts Brethren Church, Winnipeg. Man. give it much thought when another wed­ as they ministered to us. Daily Vacation Bible School was enjoyed ding comes up. To us at the Reserve Fel­ lowship Chapel, Sioux Valley, Griswold, by some 32 children and four teachers with helpers. We did not follow a VBS course this was the first one. October 5,1973

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Dec. 15th. We plan to move to Gramado the beginning of January. Continue to pray that our spiritual, physical and material needs may be met.

Finishing Language School

Brazil is celebrating its 151st year of in- tribution to the needs of the church in this Yours in Him, dependance this year. Its boasts are many country. We are now starting our last triMarvin and Wendy Thiessen and varied. Brazil lays claim to being the mester of language school and will finish C.P. 622F fifth largest country in the world, with the Sao Paulo, S.P. Brazil fastest growing city in the world, Sao Paulo, whose 8 million plus people represent 10 percent of the total population. Brazils land mass constitutes approximately one half of all of South America. The Vatican has long claimed Brazil as the worlds largest Catholic country. However in a recent statistical revision La Crete, Alta.: it was found that there are about 8 million Five weeks have slipped by very rapidly since we arrived in La Crete. "real " Catholics to 10 million "real" Prot­ Except for the delay in Edmonton of four days, due to the fact that our mobile estants, and this is in a country where 100 home was not ready, so that we could unload the U-Haul goods into it, we had a safe journey with both vehicles. years ago only 3 per cent of the popula­ We started services the second Sunday after we arrived here, when we tion claimed to be non-Catholic. There are between 2500 and 3000 new had two Sunday evening services. The attendance was around 95 and 115. Protestant congregations formed every Requests came immediately for Sunday School and Sunday morning ser­ year, but the total graduates from all Bible vices... We arranged for a Sunday School superintendant and five classes Institutes is only 600 per year leaving a with teachers, pre-schoolers, primary, junior, youth and adult. The services are held in the local school and so far there have been no charges. deficit of 2000 pastors. Due to this need many institutions now offer extension —Elmer and Lena Hamm, Alberta courses. A teacher comes to a locality once Brazil: a week for classes and study on their own at School has started again for the 1973-74 term and we are looking for­ home. There are some 300 students enrolled ward to a fruitful year. One in which we'll see students grow spiritually and in some kind of extension course at the Bible also that we’ll continue to see more and more Brazilians come to the Lord. School level and it is hoped this will solve Pray for a Brazilian school teacher for the Brazilian School here which has the pastor problem. been vacant for more than a year now because of the shortage of qualified We are looking forward to the time when Brazilian teachers (that is, Christian teachers). we will in a real way be able to make a con-

Mission-Grams

—Harry and Norma Koop, Brazil

South America

Cuajarn Hlrlm

BRAZIL

Sao Paulo

Mexico: V.B.S. has been taught in ten different places—teachers are rather scarce this year. Some 400 children reached with the course—Doing the course on Joseph. (Not all statistics in.) Sherry and Dot, American mission­ aries, helped during August — now settled in El Terrero. The San Juan church had four converts during their week of services with Manual Dominguez. Both Manuel and Felipe are back at R.G.B.I., studying. Crops look fair although the fields are rather dry. Most of the Christians do not murmur like many of the world do. We think this is a sign of more maturity in the churches. Pray for them! The general tone of the church is a happy one, praise the Lord! —Jake Kroekers

1973 BUDGET BREAKDOWN

1320,000

Board of Missions 5242,900 1973 9udget-$287,100

280,000

Board of Pub.

24,850

240,000

'5 I.

Other committees. Building,Travel,

200,000 400

900 mtlM

120,000 •" 80,000

On this map of South America you see the locations of the two places mention­ ed in our missionary reports from Brazil today. (See also page 4.) As you read the letters, remember to pray, not only for these missionaries but our whole missions personnel.

Page 8

Operating

19,348

Income short of budget

,111000

160,000

Actual InconiB (Broken line)

40,000

M

A

M

3

3

A

S

0

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THE MESSENGER

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Relaxing just before the first full day of classes at the Steinbach Bible Institute on Sept. 27 are left to right staff and facul­ ty members Ben Hoeppner, Elvira Penner, Harvey Plett, Marion Reimer, Gertrude Giesbrecht, Myrna Friesen, D. K. Friesen, Ron Dueck, John Janzen, Henry Fast, Bill Thiessen and Ruth Oomen. (See also two "Opening Days” photos below.)

Steinbach Bible Institute begins 1973-74 School Year

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OPEN HOUSE

Open House at the Steinbach Bible Institute was held on September 30. Many availed themselves of the opportunity to come and see the school. There was informal fellowship as well as a service. Main speakers were faculty members H. P. Dyck, and Arden Thiessen. Topics were "The Church needs the School,” and "The School needs the Church.” 7”

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There was good enthusiasm on the part of those who came to SBI’s open house celebrations on Sunday, Sept. 30.

October 5,1973

Scene during open house at Steinbach Bible Institute.

Page 9

News Prom the Churches ROSENORT

On the morning of August 9th, all that was left of our much appreciated renovated church building and the new addition was a heap of ruins. Although shocked and in a state of disbelief, we as a congregation could not help but con­ clude that the Lord’s hand was in this matter. The cause of the fire was declared accidental after all the known facts were in. Even though a sanctuary is only a material building, it does not take long to realize the feeling of emptiness when it’s suddenly gone. So many adjustments must immediately be made — regular Sunday services, mid-week meetings, weddings, funerals — all have had to be relocated. We are indeed grateful to our neighboring congregations for offering us the use of their facilities as well as to the Morris-Macdonald S.D. for the use of the Rosenort Elementary School for our Sunday services and choir practices. Instead of having our planned dedication service in September, we are now hoping and praying that this will become a reality in 1974. Plans for rebuilding on the same site are already underway. Once the blueprint is ready and approved, the actual construction is expected to begin. The wedding of Janet Heinrichs and ' ing MBBC in Winnipeg. They will be goDennis Brandt took place at the Morris ing back to Paraguay to help along at Baptist Church. Rev. Fred Friesen of­ the mission. ficiated. Wedding banns were announced for On Aug. 12 there was an outdoor Ron Barkman and Phyllis Kornelson Young People’s meeting at the Nick whose wedding will take place at the Eidses. There were testimonies, a short Morris United Church on September 29. talk by Edwin Loewen, and a few mus­ The Benny Eidses gave a mission re­ ical numbers by a duet from Steinbach. port at our mission night September 23. Later refreshments were served. Charity and Faith favored us with some Leroy Bartel, accompanied by his wife musical numbers, and also gave their at the piano favored us with two violin testimonies. As a final number Charity selections at our morning service on and Mr Eidse played a song which had Aug. 19. Rev. Melvin Dueck was guest made a lasting impression on him since speaker. he was quite young, "Wirst Du, Wird A special membership meeting was Ich”, held on the evening of Aug. 19 to make Deepest sympathy is extended to the plans and elect a planning and building Peter L, Kroeker family. Mr Kroeker committee. A number of the brethren passed away on September 23 at the that were on the committee before were St. Boniface Hospital. Funeral services re-elected. Shall we pray for these com­ were held September 28 at the Church mittees as they have many responsi­ of God. Mr and Mrs Jake Kroeker and Martha came from Mexico. bilities. The Ed Friesens were with us on Sun•day. August 26. Leona gave a testimony NORTHERN FELLOWSHIP and Ed had the message. They left for CHAPEL Mexico the following week. Also Alvira Friesen spoke a few words and also left On Sept. 23rd our Chapel had an ordina­ that week for Panama. On September 9 Fred and Doris tion service for Arnold and Helen Leister. Rev. Fast from Steinbach was the guest Friesen gave their testimonies and a special challenge to pray for their fa­ speaker and also performed the ordination ceremony. We were happy for the repre­ mily, as they go back to Nicaragua. Leaving for Mexico on September 11 sentation from several of the churches in were Justina Brandt and Martha Kroe­ Flin Flon and also for the visitors from Cranberry Portage. Rev. Fast, in his ker, after a short furlough. Rev. and Mrs Johnny Loewen and Rev. message, spoke on the characteristics and Mrs Frank P. Kroeker and Judy and needed by a pastor. On September 9 we had a welcome coffee David Schmidt attended Campus Cru­ sade at Banff, Alta, some time in August. for those that joined us for the new school On September 16 Jake Giesbrecht of term — Ken and Helen Penner, who are Paraguay had a German message. He both teaching at the collegiate. Art Koop has attended the SBI and is now attend- and David Blatz working at carpentry.

Page 10

and Anne Elias, Pauline Thomasson and several other girls who have taken up nursing here. The College and Career group had their first meeting this last Friday. In the last report one of the names of the baptismal candidates should have read Joyce Sanderson not Marie Zanderson. SWIFT CURRENT

Abe and Mary Leiding, Conrad, Marlon and Joellen

We are so happy to have the Lester 01ferts in our midst again after returning

from Nicaragua. On Aug. 12 Rev Abe Leiding spoke to us on Philippians 2:1-11. He said ‘Sin is not stagnant, it developes more and more. Our total life is to be the example of Christ. We are to have the same love to our fellow man as Christ has for us. Never once did Jesus retaliate. He was humble, willing to be servant. The biggest problem in the world is not war, it’s in the heart of the Christian, not willing to deal with sin. People do not come to Christ, because we don’t have the real life of Christ shin­ ing from us.” In the evening the church was filled to capacity for the farewell for the Abe Leiding's with a program and fellowship lunch. Lester and Darlene Olfert reported on the work in Nicaragua via slides and word on the evening of the 19th. The Ladies Mission Workers presented a birthday party at the Nursing Home and the Pioneer Lodge on the 20th for the ones having a birthday in August. The Abe Leiding’s furniture left for Burns Lake, B.C. on the 20th of August, THE MESSENGER

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where they are taking over the pastorate. Their plans were to leave the next day. but the Lord saw fit to change their plans. Mrs Leiding was hospitalized for two weeks with ruptured appendix. The Leidings were praising that it happened here, instead of on the road. They left on the Sth of September and ar­ rived in Burns Lake on the 10th. Rev. Fast spoke to us about the Church of the Laodiceans on the 26th of Aug. He told us to get off the fence and be counted for what we are. He said “we can’t be neutral. We must open the door, then Christ will meet our every need. He asked, “Are we submitting or resisting? We can only do one. God says if we are lukewarm. He will spue us out." Our promotion day was on Sept. 2, with many being promoted to higher classes. The guest speaker, Rev John Dyck, mis­ sionary to Germany, under the Janz Team asked us, "What fruit does God expect? Are we counterfeit? When we follow God's rules for fruit bearing, that is abide in the vine, we will grow and bear fruit. On Sept, 9 Lester Olfert talked about the tenderness of Jesus’ eyes but the day

will come when those who disregard Jesus tender eyes, will see His firey eyes, when Jesus' voice will be like the sound of many waters, everyone will hear, if they want to or not, Larry and Judy Hamm have moved back to Swift Current. We are happy to have them in our midst again. On Sunday, September 16, Pastor Fast spoke to us about stewardship of our ma­ terial goods. He said a dead church will not cost anything, but a living one will. You give to the causes you love. In the even­ ing Lester Olfert also spoke on steward­ ship. He told us we must give our all to Jesus, our time, talents, and bodies are to be used for God's honor and glory. On September 23 Pastor Fast asked us how the world knew we are Christians, is it by badges we wear or by the stickers we have on our cars? What does Jesus have to say about true identity with Christ? The ans­ wer is LOVE. We have to admit we are wrong, say we're sorry, and have a for­ giving spirit. Then we will really exper­ ience the love of Christ, and we will be in God’s will.

FISHER BRANCH

of service. Let us remember to uphold them f in prayer. September 17 was a red letter day for the Isaac Reimer family when daughter Esther came home after a two year term of work at Bad Gandersheim, Germany. September 12 was the first day of religion classes at school. Ninety-two students registered for the protestant classes. Staff this year are Ed Heinrichs, Nick and Rose Plett, Norma Reimer, Esther Reimer and Martha Reimer, Recent guest speakers here were Rev, Ed, Plett of Landmark, Rev, Andrew Dueck of Mennville, Rev, Frank Reimer and Is, Plett of Landmark. The Elvin Reimer family is travelling at present. They accompanied Helen Kor­ nelsen (sister to Mrs Reimer) back to her post with the GMU at British Honduras. A new face in our congregation is Pam­ ela Steves who hails from New Bruns­ wick. Pam is teaching at the collegiate here.

BURNS LAKE

Sept. 16, 1973. A date to remember in the history of the Evangelical Mennonite church in Burns Lake! That was the date of the installation service for our new pastor. Rev. Abe Leiding, his wife Mary 'J and their three children, formerly of Swift Current, Saskatchewan arrived in Burns Lake on Monday, the tenth. The * Leidings felt the Lord leading them to take on the pastorate here, so they left their home, family and friends to follow the Lord. The installation service was conducted by Rev. Henry Kornelsen, moderator of the EM conference. He delivered a heart­ warming message the humble servant of the Lord. Both Rev. and Mrs Leiding gave a short testimony stating their joy in the Lord's service. We as a church are praising the Lord for bringing the Leidings to us, in answer Fisher Branch church the way it look­ Scene during the recent Inter-Lake to our prayers. We are also very thankful ed after work done on it this past sum­ EMC Youth Rally which was held at the for His healing hand on Mrs Leiding. She mer. underwent an emergency appendix opera­ Fisher Branch church. tion just a week before they left Swift Current. The Lord has granted a very Bang, bang, bang! What? Carpenters at was chaired by Menno Friesen of Menn- swift recovery for which all are thank­ church? Yes, for you see the exterior is ville. A devotion was led by Pete Friesen ful. getting siding nailed on! A few windows (return missionary from Paraguay). The We would like to express our apprecia­ and front door were added as well. That was presentation on music was made by Don­ tion for all your prayers, on our behalf, in July. Now even the paint brushes have ald Thiessen (of Ridgewood). A host of and we know that the Lord will reward been laid aside and we are trusting that enthusiastic young people showed up as your faithfulness. We would like to ask the improvements to the building will well, each one contributing in a small way. your continued prayers both for the church help in a small way to show our apprecia­ in our acceptance of our new pastor, and tion to our creator. May each one who en­ We were delighted to have Harvey Plett, for the Leidings, in their new position. ters the doors of this building be helped returned missionary from Bahama Islands During the summer Vacation Bible spiritually. with us on August 31. September 3 Fred School was taught in Decker Lake, five Friesen showed slides and reported of the miles west of Burns Lake. Several of our An Interlake EMC youth rally took place work at Nicaragua. Both Harvey and the Sunday School teachers, and other volun­ at Fisjier Branch on Aug. 26th. The meeting Fred Friesens are now back at their places teers conducted the school. The attendance • i . . Octoter 5,1973 ; Page 11 ’

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was very encouraging, in several of the children who attended are now enrolled in our Sunday School. We are praising the Lord for this opportunity to spread the Word. Several other exciting things have hap­ pened in our church during the summer. A daughter was born to Verna and David Hopper in June, and a son was born to Jane and Ed Wiebe on July 11. On July 28 .Marian Knelsen and Bruce Thomas, both members of our congregation, were united in holy matrimony in our church by Rev. George Loewen. Pray for these young parents as they start their fam­ ilies. and for this couple as they start their new life together. With the coming of autumn comes the beginning of a new school year. Bible school as well as secular schools. Seven of our young people are again leaving for Peace River Bible Institute in Sex­ smith. Alberta. Leaving are Jake and Dorothy Unrau. Jake. Tina and Mary Wiebe, and Tina and Trudy Fehr. Pray for these kids as they again take up their studies in God's word. We will miss them from the congregation, but we know they are in the Lord's will, and so they must go.

MR. GEORGE S, KORNELSON 1901-1973 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. To an inheri­ tance incorruptible and undefiled and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you. I Peter 1;3. 4. The Lord has chosen to call to Himself my beloved husband and the father of our children. He was born to Mr and Mrs Cornelius Kornelson on March 3. 1901 at Kleefeld. Mani­ toba and reached the age of 72 years and 6 months. He received his education at Klee­ feld. He accepted Christ into his life and was baptized on October 9. 1923 upon the confession of his faith in the Rosenort EM church (Kleingemeinde) by the late Jacob R. Dueck. On Dec. 9. 1923 we were united in holy matrimony in the Kleefeld Church with Rev. Henry R. Dueck officiating. We shar­ ed our joys and sorrows for almost 50 years. In this time six sons and five daugh­ ters were born to us. We moved to Giroux district in 1935. We experienced many dif­ ficulties during the depression years. Fa­ ther worked hard and seemed to love it. We retired from the farm four years ago and he worked part time as egg-grader for Toews Poultry Farm until the day before he took sick. He planned to leave for British Hon­ duras last Saturday. Sept. 1st. and was Page 12

THE MESSENGER

eagerly looking forward to it. A few weeks ago we celebrated our Gold­ en Wedding anniversary which all mem­ bers of the family could attend. He was very concerned about the spirit­ ual welfare of his children and their gen­ eral well-being. He was faithful in attend­ ing church functions and during the last year found much comfort in prayer. Thursday morning we decided to go shopping to Winnipeg. Upon arrival he received sudden severe pain. With great difficulty he managed to drive home as far as Ste. Anne, where daughter-in-law Yvon­ ne drove him home and Eldon Penners took him to Steinbach Bethesda Hospital. He was transferred to St. Boniface. He suffered intensely until 8; 30 when surgery was begun. He had a ruptured artery in the abdomen which was repaired success­ fully. However due to loss of blood the kid­ neys failed. He passed away peacefully to be with the Lord at 8;00 a.m. Monday. Septembers. Left to mourn are; his beloved wife An­ nie. six sons — Tony and wife Mary, Blumenort, Henry and wife Tina. Giroux. Al­ vin and wife Adina. Rosenort. Bill and wife Darlyne. Selkirk. Cornie and wife Linda. Winnipeg. Harvey and wife Yvonne. Ste. Anne; five daughters - Helen. Belize. Mary and Ken Loewen, Blumenort, Tina and Elvin Reimer. Arborg. Alma and Stan Plett. Lynn Lake. Annie and Elden Penner. Giroux. 41 grandchildren and two great­ grandchildren. Also two brothers Cornelious from Rosenort and Pete from Winnipeg and six sisters. Mary, Mrs Isaac Friesen, Mexi­ co; Jessie, Mrs Peter Dueck, Fisher

Branch; Elizabeth. Mrs Peter Friesen, Mexico; Katherine, Mrs Koop, Blumenort; Anna, Mrs Henry Dueck, Winnipeg; Helen, Mrs Carriere. Portage la Prairie. Predeceased are four grandchildren, one brother and one sister. We wish to express our thanks to all those who have prayed and shown sympathy in many ways. We are looking forward to meeting him in a glorious reunion in heaven.1 Wife and family.

In Memorium In Memory of our Dear Son and Brother Wallace Our son is blest, from toil he rest. Beyond all pain and care; No tear, no sigh, no wailing cry. Can touch his spirit there In safe retreat, in joy complete. He dwells in peace at home; He always waits, at heaven s gate. The hour that we shall come. Our Lord hath said. T il bring your son. When I come down the skies!' z Then, from the gloom, of dismal tomb. His body shall arise. Up in the air. some place up there We ll all be gathered home; With Christ to dwell, where all is well, Where death can never come.

Jac and Eva Plett Gwen. Andy Lionel and Myron

Steinbach Bible Institute Benefit Auction November 3,1973 Here is an opportunity for you to make a donation to the S.B.I. through some articles to put up for auction. Proceeds go to the school. Articles should be useable or of value. Watch for church announcements. For more information see your contact man or phone the school.

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