The Messenger August 23, 1974

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In 100 years we have come a long way. Many changes have taken place. As we read this article and sense the concern of the writer we too might do well to pause and assess our own situation.

Blueprint for Century Two by Travis Reimer

The Mennonites have now been in Manitoba for one century. During that time much has happened, most im­ portant of which is -the strong shift from the land to the city, from a rural agrarian way of life to an urban in­ dustrial pattern. While we were travelling through the mountains I noticed on several oc­ casions that the “funneling” effect of the mountains as background gave me the mistaken impression that we were descending when in fact we were climbing. Similarly, we do well to ask whether in the past century we have been progressing as we thought we were, or whether our environment has been giving us a mistaken impression. Colossians ch. 3 has a great deal to say to us on this score. The stage for this passage is set back in 2:12 where we are told that baptism is the great divide for the Christian. Having died to sin and risen with Christ to live his life (3:1), the Christian is to set his mind on things above and not on things on earth. In other words, he is to practise his position.

Becoming in practice what we are in position involves two aspects—“put­ ting off” and “putting on”. In fact, the former aspect is also spoken of as “put­ ting to death” (v5) and is comparable to Christ’s statement in Matthew 5;29f, where he tells us to cut off the hand or foot that offends us or pluck out the eye that leads us into sin. That is, every­ thing which would keep us from fully obeying God and fully surrendering to Christ must be surgically excised. The “putting off” and “putting on” imagery pertains to clothing, and while I doubt that this was high in Paul’s thinking here, it could parallel the necessity of the change of clothing when the baptismal candidate comes from baptism. At any rate, the procedure implies that a very definite, progres­ sive change takes place in the Christian life. Verse 10 states that the pattern of the change is manhood in the image of God, and the renewal is one of know­ ledge, that is, of moral and spiritual discernment (cf. Eph. 4:24). How will this progressive renewal take place? By a negative and a positive

Travis Reimer is pastor of the Evangelical Mennonite Brethren church in Steinbach, Man. BLUEPRINT FOR CENTURY TWO is a message delivered at that church’s centennial observance on July 28. It was also given at the Mennonite Village Museum church on July 29.

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action. We are to “put off” immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, covet­ ousness, anger, wrath, malice, slander, foul talk, lying, and divisions (vv 5, 8, 11). All of these are grasping, destruc­ tive qualities and contribute to di­ visiveness. On the other hand, we are to “put on” compassion, kindness, lowliness, meekness, patience, forbearing one another, forgiving each other, love, peace, harmony, unity (vv 12-15). These are all giving, building qualities and contribute to cohesiveness. But it is precisely this list of virtues that arrests our attention. For there is no mention of virtues like efficiency, cleverness, or even diligence and in­ dustry—and aren’t these the virtues that we Mennonites have prided ourselves with? Now, the Apostle Paul doesn’t say that these virtues are unimportant, but he does say that the great basic Christian virtues are the virtues which govern and set the tone of human re­ lationships. Christianity, he asserts, is community. And this raises some ques­ tions about our past and our future. First of all, we need to realize that the economic system which we have has some inherent dangers that we need to guard against. I am not opposed to capitalism; I am simply pointing out that it, like any economic system, can be used by Satan to our hurt. Since capitalism is based on the profit mo­ tive we need to be aware of the fine line of distinction between proper profit and covetousness. Verse 5 singCont’d on page 8 THE MESSENGER

The following address was delivered by Peter J. B. Reimer at Manitoba Mennonite Centennial Day held at the Winnipeg arena on July 28.

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Century in Retrospect

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' Mennonite delegation, July 1873 at the Federal Dominion Land office, Winnipeg. Courtesy Manitoba Archives

Mr. Chairman, Mr. Premier, Your Hon­ our, the Lt.-Governor, Guests and Fellow Mennonites: The Migration It is a pleasure and an honour for me this afternoon to address this large audience in our capital city of our Province of Man­ itoba. Nearly 8,000 Mennonite people came to Manitoba during the years of 1874-76. They came as three congregations. The Small Church (Kleine Gemeinde) about 10 per cent of the group came mostly from the Borosenko and Molotschna area of the

Ukraine and settled in six villages in the Steinbach area and on the Morris River; the Bergthaler congregation, over 40 per cent of the group settled in the Chortitz, Grunthal area, and the Old Colonier con­ gregation settle only in the West Reserve. They were nearly half of the total group.

The Federal Government set aside the East Reserve with 8 townships and the West Reserve with 17 townships. They settled in 110 completely rural villages, usually from 10 to 20 families in each. Forty-five of these villages were in the East Reserve and 65 were in the West Reserve. Although each family had taken a homestead, the village complex was div­ ided into narrow strips and apportioned to the various families. Our people were determined in this way to keep and to pre­ serve their own, isolated way of life. To them to keep only to themselves, was the proper way to remain a people of God, and undefiled from a worldy environment of temptations, which might lead them and their children astray. However, this old, ideal arrangement lasted only a short 15 years and then be­ gan to break down. From 1890 to 1910 the

vast majority of the villages broke apart and most of the families moved on their own homestead. At the same time there was a major movement to Saskatchewan, where the younger generation could then take their own homesteads. Some fam­ ilies also moved south to a better, milder climate. This whole movement was the be­ ginning of the breakdown of the old way of life. World War I Then came World War I in 1914. The Fed­ eral Government kept its promise of mil­ itary exemption for the Mennonites. They were asked to grow more wheat and other grains to feed the people of Great Britain and the other allied nations, which they were very willing to do. They also bought a lot of war bonds like real patriots. That was all very much along their way of life. But in some other ways the war changed life for our Mennonites very, very much. Changes The Provincial Government headed by Premier Norris became impatient with the slowness of the progress among the Men­ nonites. with which they became angliciz­ ed. Although they were making some progress in introducing the teaching of Eng­ lish in some of their shcools, and the Men­ nonite Collegiate at Gretna had been making great efforts for several decades to train Mennonite teachers, the govern­ ment determined to use force. They passed a compulsory attendance act for the Public School System. No more patience was to be exercised with the Mennonites, although they had come to this country with the clear under­ standing, that they would have the priv­ ilege of educating their children according to their conscience. Several thousands of the more conservative Mennonites left for Mexico and Paraguay in the early 192O’s. They were among the best farmers of this province and took millions of dollars along as well. They were peace-loving people and had helped to build up this province. All they needed was a little more time to ac­ cept the English language. To say that this government policy was shortsighted is an understatement. It was absolutely stupid. New one-roomed school buildings were put up by the government all over the Men­ nonite Reserves and the small rural dis­ tricts were given English names, which had no meaning for the Mennonite people or for their identity. That was not democ­ racy, that was war psychology. However, there were other changes as well. For those Mennonites who remained

Cont’don page 8

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.

August 23, 1974

Pages

Do we need an EMC Annua! Conference Since the first EMC annual conference in 1951 this yearly function has become quite firmly entrenched and institutionalized. With the 25th EMC annual conference looming on the horizon it might not be out of order to stop and ask ourselves whether annual conferences are necessary at all. And the silver jubilee one (1975) might be an appropriate time to give some serious thought to the subject. I believe I would be quite safe in saying that for some EMCers annual conference has less significance than some of the high days on the local church calander at least if their absence is any indication. No doubt after we have said this we must concede that some can not come due to geographical reasons - annual conference is always in one region and this never is Winnipeg or Swift Current or Kola to name a few places. With the construction of the SBI gymnatorium this is of course even more narrowed down to one par­ ticular place. Others would not come because annual conference is just not relevant, it does not head any priority list. The faithful, if near at hand, come. A few, comparitively, also come from farther away. But here cost be­ comes an additional factor and is thus more likely to hinder coming. Delegates of course have no excuse be­ cause they get their way paid. Yet not nearly all dele­ gates were present either. The yearly average is maybe around 70% present. Another reason for my questioning the need for an annual conference is the indifference by the rank and file of our members towards the annual yearbook which con­ tains the proceedings, reports and sometimes inspira­ tional messages of the conference. One would surmise that not having been present they would eagerly await the appearance of this annual. Not so. One is some­ times almost embarassed in the church leader’s stead when he orders his yearbooks for the church. Why? Be­ cause past experience tells him that unless he does a superb selling job these books, at least some of them, may well still be around when the next one comes out. Annual conference is by no means a waste. Much has been accomplished through the years. Especially is this the case along the informational, inspirational and visitational lines because in the past this I think was the main end product. Since 1972, when all Conference elections were shifted to annual conference, there has also been more meaning to the business sessions. Even the Conference Resolution, which we have now been formulating for the last four years or so, becomes meaningless unless acted upon and reviewed during the the year. And how many times have we done this on the 1973 resolution? Page 4

In fact I was challenged on this very item by a brother regarding the 1974 resolution which appeared in the MESSENGER after the conference. He admitted that it was good but what would be done about it. A valid question. The cost factor, although minimil because of our affluence, is nevertheless also an item to consider. The 1974 annual conference will constitute a cash outlay of over $1000.00 which in any terms is a sizable sum. Added to this is the fuel which is burned in the cars of the conference guests, wear and tear etc. which might add up to another sum of the same amount. This money if given to the MCC would go a long way towards famine relief in Africa. You will have noticed, I hope, that I have not been questioning EMC conference-wide conventions per se. My question is whether we need an annual conference; a yearly one. And I believe there could be some attractive alternatives. We could alternate, for instance, with a delegates only conference one year and a general conference the other year. For the delegate only years we could also com­ mandeer a few more sites besides the traditional ones in Southern Manitoba. With three Greyhound buses we could have a delegate session at anyone of our larger churches in Manitoba or Saskatchewan within a matter of some 12 hours. Inviting all churches of the area and adding a few inspirational and report sessions would give many who may never have attended an EMC conference, an op­ portunity to also share in the blessings. And there might be more of these then we suspect. Consider that our Conference, which not too many years ago had maybe 95% of its members in Manitoba, to date has over 500 members in Saskatchewan! I’m sure many of these have never had the privilege of fellowshipping with us at an annual conference because of distance to travel. We are thrilled about this "lengthening of our "chords" and the growth of our membership. But with this should also come the willingness to maybe relinquish some cherished traditions on our part. Neither should we be unnecessarily dismayed if an EMC annual conference all of a sudden becomes out of our reach as it is to many hundreds in the past. It should be cause for rejoicing that we have gained so many brothers and sisters that makes an adjustment imperative. -D.S.

Cover photo: Rushing River Provincial Park on No. 71 Highway east of Kenora, Ontario.

THE MESSENGER

Progress at Gramado If you were to visit the Janz Team Cen­ Immediately after we pass Novo Hamter in Gramado, Brazil you would likely burgo, we start the long ascent to the land some eighty-five miles to the south in town of Gramado lying some 3050 feet the city of Porto Alegre. As we leave this above sea level. This drive has to rate as bustling metropolis (population of 100,000) ‘ one of the most beautiful in all of Brazil, we pass through the smaller cities of Sao Mountains and forests on both sides of us Leopoldo ahd Novo Hamburgo both cele­ with a sprinkling of farms in the most im­ brating the 150th anniversary of the German possible places. Little wonder that this immigration to Brazil this year. To celebrate part of country is called "The Switzer­ this event, thousands of tourists from Ger­ land of Brazil. " many will flock to these centers including Gramado is a famous resort area in the world champion German football club. Brazil. Thousands of foreigners besides A large part of the population in the three Brazilians visit this town annually. The southernmost states of Brazil is of German architecture of the buildings tells us that origin. most of its inhabitants are also of German

Because they stayed Rafael Marquez’ young face reflected deep concern. “I have been called before the town authorities for the third time. They are bent on getting us out of town. My oldest son has been beaten up several times in school because he confesses to be and Evangelical. I'm afraid we can take no more of this.,. ", His voice trailed off disconcertedly. "Bro., my wife and I have de­ cided to move to San Juan where the Evan­ gelical Church has quite a few members and is respected. This town is hopeless. We have testified of our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ to practically every person in this place. Their only response is ridicule and persecution, and I think we have had our share of that kind of treatment. Don't you agree?" (A long tense silence). "But. bro. Rafael, if you move out who will hold up the torch August 23, 1974

of light in this dark place? Look here, we will come to live with you for a week or two—let's see what happens?" Bro, Rafael consented reluctantly with, "Esta bien", (Seven years later). The joyous strains, “En las luchas en las pruebas la Iglesia sigue caminando", (Amidst battles and trials the Church is going forward) comes floating through the doors of the newly constructed chapel. This is the twice an­ nual Youth Conference inaugurating the new place of worship. Bro. Rafael, his wife and four children are seen sitting in the congregation with some one hundred other worshippers. Yes, the present re­ sult has not been without any cost. It has been a dogged battle every inch of the way. Many a time since that first eventful discussion Bro, Rafael has been at the

stock. Though Gramado is not a big town it has 15 hotels which cater to the tour­ ists. At present Varig, Brazil's biggest airline, is constructing a huge hotel of international standard. Gramado's main attractions are the beautiful tempera­ ture and the hortensia festival which last year drew 100,000 people. Because of it's high altitude Gramado is one of the few places in this country where the hortensia flowers grow. On a high hill overlooking the town of Gramado is the site of the Janz Team Centro de Treinamento Biblico. This 1600 sq. meter building will accomodate 150 people and is scheduled to open on January 5th, 1975. The summer months of January and February will be devoted to camps and retreats. The Bible School term will begin in March. During the year we will also be offering Bible School short courses, and weekend seminars. There will always be an apartment or two available for folks who want to spend their vacations here. This fall the main office, which at pre­ sent is located 400 miles north in Curiti­ ba, will be moved to Gramado. This will include the radio studio as well. Janz Team releases four programs per week over CHJB Quito one of which originates here in Brazil. In all this activity we want to keep our goals in focus, namely to train Brazilian young people to take responsibility and leadership in the local churches. Please pray with us. Marvin Thiessen

point of throwing in the towel. But by God's grace they always manged to weath­ er another storm of attack. Others have come into the ranks. Bro. Chano Vargas, now leading minister, boasts many a scar from Satan's fiery darts. Tall, handsom, Joaquin Madrid, well-to-do po­ tato grower, is the quiet staff and stay when everything seems to teeter-totter, Abel, Joaquin's older brother, always ready to give a helping hand, running here and there—what would have happen­ ed to the chapel construction without Abel? Just the other day someone said, “Have you noticed the way Abel is matur­ ing of late? Not without reason—talk about trials! The third, and younger brother, Salem Madrid and his blond wife, Yvonne, have also decided to follow the Lord. Their train depot home is always a haven of rest for the visiting missionaries. Barely three days ago Yvonne finally managed to convince her parents that they should invite us over. Cont’d on next page Pages

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WITH OUR MISSIONARY FAMILY: COMING AND GOING

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Go ye into all the world ARRIVALS:

Mr and Mrs Harry Friesen and family arrived home August 15. The Friesens have served a two year term of Christian Service, teaching in Belize with Gospel Missionary Union. The Clifford Reimers of Panama arrived home for their furlough on August 13. They will be residing at 388 Hospital Street, Steinbach, Man. Mrs Stan Houghton, Ecuador, and Becky arrived July 29th due to Becky needing medical attention. Mr Houghton is to arrive later.

Miss Katherine Penner, Ridgewood, left August 20 for a two year Christian Service term in Belize teaching with Gospel Mis­ sionary Union. Peter and Sally Dueck of Steinbach, Man. left August 20 for a two year Christian Service term at the Children's Home at Bad Gandersheim, Germany. Mr Ben Eidse, Steinbach, Man. left August 11 for Zaire, Africa in connection with his translation work. He expects to be gone six weeks.

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DEPARTURES:

Ken and Nellie Loewen, Steinbach, Man. left on July 19 for New Guinea. They will be serving with Wycliffe Bible Translators. Miss Grace Thiessen of Steinbach left Aug. 9 for a two year Christian Service term in Bolivia teaching missionary children with Wycliffe Bible Translators. Mr and Mrs Jasch Giesbrecht and family left August 10 to take up service on La Espera za Station in Paraguay. For the Giesbrechts it is a return "home”. They have been in Canada studying for about the last three years. Mr and Mrs Edmar Fast and family of Blumenort, Man. returned to El Paso Aug­ ust 16 after a summer furlough. Miss Irma Heppner, R.N.. MacGregor. Man., left August 19 for Rio Grande Bible Institute for language study and prepar­ ation for service in Nicaragua.

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On left, Ken and Nellie Loewen. Above: Monica, Andrew and Lisa Loewen; on right, Irma Hoeppner. THE MESSENGER

Four Bibles: Mexico «

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“Lord, let me sell four Bibles this Slightly fatigued, I slowly wend my way afternoon,” I prayed as I reached the top back to my humble home at Campo 77. of the hill. God seemed so close and dear After I reached my favorite mountain as my eyes took in His wonderful creation top, my thoughts went backto my pre­ from this vantage point. I ould see the vious request...' God, didn’t I ask you to huge ranch of Bonito Juarez vividly, allow me to sell tour Bibles? And yet, teeming with lost souls. how come only three homes requested a That was the place I was heading for— Bible? What is wrong. Lord?...Maybe in with my heavy bag over my shoulders, my own life...?” filled with tracts, introduction papers, A voice interrupted my reverie. Start­ little Gospels and Bibles. In this manner led, I looked behind me. “Buenos I had already canvassed three ranches, Tardes” was the friendly greeting of a trying to bring the Word of God to the man on horseback. I returned the Mexican homes. greeting. He inquired about my business After I had meditated with my Lord and I obliged in my very limited Spanish. for a few minutes, I continued on to the He asked to see the Bibles. I thought my ranch. My path up and down over the ears were deceiving me...when he stated rolling hills. I drank in God’s beauty that he would like to buy one. I was over­ and breathed, “How Great Thou Art." joyed...and let him have one for half How thankful I felt to be able to serve price. As suddenly as the rider had ap­ this King of kings. peared, he was gone and all I heard were Like a "pedlar” I walked from adobe the hoofbeats in the distance, re-echoing hut to adobe hut, offering my “Goods" through the lofty mountains. of eternal value. Most of the hosts and Overwhelmed, I sank down before my hostesses are very friendly and hospit­ God. “Yes, you are a great God,” I able, offering me coffee or tortillas. breathed, not only in nature, but You When I notice there is interest for God’s care about poor little me—no request Word, I give them a small gospel, or if goes unnoticed before You. Thank you. they can make a small payment of a few Lord, and bless the recipient of the pesos, I give them a Bible. All receive Bibles, especially also the last one— tracts. Most of them are reading the that Your Word might not return void...” literature before I leave their humble My fatigue was gone and with a spring abode. in my step, I quickened my pace towards After I have been in and out of about home. To God be all the glory! twenty homes, I noticed the sun starting to sink behind the majestic mountains. Daniel Klassen Her mother also invited two other Catholic ladies to listen in. The planned thirty min­ ute stay drew out to two hours. When we left this beautiful home we knew several new contacts had been established. And then there is our dear Bro. Salvador Garcia, who reminds us of "quiet waters flow deep”. Oh, yes, and then there is Bro. Felipe Cruz, the fellow playing the guitar, he is home on a month's vacation from Rio Grande, Texas, and expects to return for his fourth term in the Bible Institute. But we think of three more brethren who are not present, Armando Garcia, Dulcenombres Valdez and Fernando Vargas we are sadly reminded of Demas, "who loved this present world". Of course we have not mentioned the faithful women who have played such a very important role in the life of the fellow­ ship, but that is another chapter perhaps even more exciting. Yes, this little group of some two ten August 23,1974

(20) has weathered many a storm. In fact last month the matter of the church con­ struction pretty near split the group into two separate tens. But the Lord had his way the other day....“Bro Rafael, I'm sorry I treated you bad, will you forgive me?” said Don Chano. "These words cut me deep, Bro. Chano, may I also count on your pardon?” replied Bro. Rafael. Again Satan was pushed off center stage. Oh, no, they are not perfect. Bro. Rafael can become very irritable. Bro. Chano is too lenient in his family discipline, causing him untold grief. The Madrids seem too materialistic. Some are too worldly. But then...well, when He comes we shall all be like Him. Pray that even here and now we would be conformed to His glorious image. "Except the corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone, but if it die it bringeth forth much fruit. ” Edward Friesen, Mexico

Peter and Helen Plett with Jacky and Angela. Mr and Mrs Peter Plett, Ridgewood, Man. left on August 12th for a period of orientation in Toronto, Ontario and Akron, Pennsylvania after which they will continue on to Nigeria for a three year teaching term in a Sudan Interior Mission national school. The Pletts are going under the MCC but are on loan to SIM. Their address will be; ECWA Secondary School, c/o SIM, Miango (via Jos), B. P. State, Nigeria.

RESPONSE TO LATEST TRAGEDY WINNIPEG—Disaster has again struck beleaguered Bangladesh. This time it is in the shape of floods engulfing more than half of the country, bringing in their wake colossal property damage as well as great human suffering. Reports indicate that 30,000 out of a total of 55,000 square miles are affected. Five hundred thousand homes have been damaged. Summer rice crops have been spoiled before harvest­ ing, while winter crops just planted are seriously affected. The number of people affected is staggering - 20 million - equal al­ most to the entire population of Canada. Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) has immediately responded to a cable re­ quest for help from Bangladesh with a shipment of beans valued at approximately $40,000 to be used in food-for-work projects. There is a readiness for further response with emergency aid just as soon as MCC workers in Bangladesh can identify and communicate the specific needs there. It is expected that considerable aid will be required.

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BLUEPRINT cont'd

posed to Gesellschaft. In the latter case there is an interdependance based upon organizational structure in which we help to meet each other's needs by Since capitalism is based on the virtue of the organization. But surely profit motive we need to be aware the church must be a place where we go beyond that and we come to know of the fine line of distinction each other intimately, trust each between proper profit and other so fully and love each other so covetousness. deeply that we experience Gemeinschaft. I rather suspect that we will need to gather as small fellowship les out covetousness as being idolatry groups within the church in order to and hence particularly heinous. Covet­ have everyone involved in warm fel­ lowship and supportive relationship. ousness can hurt my brother. So we need to grapple jointly as In that setting most, if not all, of the Christian brethren with practical ques­ functions of the church will take place tions like, "What is proper profit?” on a primary level and brothers and What is the place of gambling gimmicks sisters will share in confidence and in selling? What standards of advertis­ grow through mutual upbuilding. Young people who take this passage ing are Christian? How can and ought a dealer (or buyer, for that matter) to seriously will find that they are be­ relate to planned obsolescence in mer­ coming more interested in the welfare chandise? What are fair wages? What of the group than in their own needs. is fair work? How can Christian labor and management transcend the worldly concept of the adversary dynamic ... we will need to gather as small (i.e., the idea that the two are irrecon­ fellowship groups within the church cilable foes)? What is our responsibility in order to have everyone involved for quality of service and product? in warm fellowship and supportive What is our response to competition? How do we relate to the welfare state relationship. —or do we have no more obligations to our brother?” The point is this—there needs to be When someone lacking popularity and a communal approach to such ques­ personal magnetism enters the Sunday tions. As Christian brethren we need to School or youth group or ISCF group seek together the guidance of the Holy the concerned young person will seek Spirit. to meet the person's needs and make Another implication here is seen in him feel a part of the group rather the difference of attitude that has been than seek to meet his own needs of detected among the various immigrants acceptance and worth by trying to be from Europe. Whereas a large number with the pacesetters. of immigrants looked upon the prairies These and many more implications as an adversary, as a land to be con­ flow from Colossians 3. If we were to quered, people coming from the encapsulate the teaching here we Ukraine and that area, were noted to would say that people who have been think of the prairies as a land that had born anew must be noted for reconcil­ to have its best qualities drawn out. In iation. They will demonstrate and init­ other words, our forefathers thought in iate reconciliation. As we look ahead terms of working in harmony with to the second century, should God tarry, God’s laws. But now as we have shifted may our touchstone for action be that from the farm into business, are we we Mennonites are noted for our con­ not finding that the competitiveness cern for reconciliation. of the situation is changing our mindset and that the qualities like gentleness and meekness are beginning to subside RETROSPECT cont'd and the conquering spirit is taking their place? in the country, it served as a stimulus to Thirdly, we need to recover a deeper encourage higher education for their fellowship with one another. Sociol­ young people, because they needed teach­ ogists speak of Gemeinschaft as op- ers who were qualified in the English langPage8

uage. Then came another 20,000 more of our people from the Ukraine in the 192O's, which took the place of those who had left, although they came without money again, very much like our earlier im­ migrants, but with one big difference: they were people with a better education and were progressive-minded. Many of their young men quickly acquired the English language and helped out in our schools. World War II Then came World War II in 1939. We accepted Alternate Service, which allowed our young men to do useful work in forests, for example, instead of being trained to kill. However, we must not forget, that probably close to one half of our Mennonite young people volunteered for mil­ itary service. Because of all this, several thousand more of our more conservative Mennonites left for Mexico, Paraguay and Bolivia in 1948. They wanted to es­ cape any further, future military adven­ tures in Canada. Several thousand Mennonite refugees came from Europe during the 195O's and a good many have also re­ turned from the Latin-American countries, because they did not find what they want­ ed. To the Cities Another great change for our people has been the ever-increasing movement to the city. Fifty years ago Winnipeg had one Mennonite church housed in a basement. Today there are 26 beautiful, mostly large Mennonite churches in the same city. As our young people got a higher ed­ ucation they entered all the different pro­ fessions and careers. We have many pro­ fessors, doctors, engineers, architects, nurses, and other professionals. We have hundreds of missionaries all over the world and we now encourage moving out among other people to become involved. We have a provincial as well as a country-wide Mennonite organization called the Menno­ nite Central Committee, which encourages our young people to go out for works of charity and helping to rebuild after a dis­ aster, in the name of Christ. In spite of some migrations, our original 8,000 Mennonites have become about 65,000 in Manitoba, and just as many in the three other western provinces, not counting another large number in Ontario. What WUl It Be? During the last fifty years we have left our isolated way of life and have become involved in all different ways, even in pol­ itics, because we have several MLA’s as well as MP's in Ottawa. Now we have the challenge of becoming the salt of the earth, or just a part of the unbelieving world. What will it be?

THE MESSENGER

Prodigal I have mangled your gifts I have wasted your time I have trodden your name Down into the slime.

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There is only one thing I can plead in my shame There is only one thing I ask in your name I request only this as I shoulder the blame Have mercy. Have mercy on me. I have tested your patience and courted your wrath How can I stand here and plead How can I ask that your love set me free When I've lived by the hypocrates creed.

All of my sin I unload at your feet Cursed thrice, cursed they be But this I know that forgive them you will For your Son once bled empty for me.

This Morning ..

''lint Toews

Did you meet your Lord this mornihg E’er you saw a human faceP Did you look upon His beauty Through His all-abounding grace?

Did you how in prayer before Him E’er you went upon your way? Did you ask for strength to carry All the burdens of the day'? Did you seek His will in reading From His Holy Word, and take Of His promises a portion. Blessed with love, for His Name’s sake? Oh. how weak and worthless are we. And our spirits quake within. If we fail to meet our Master E’er the pathway u>e begin.

How He waits to give His blessing On our lives another day. Christian, never start without Him. T.et Him speak, and then. obey.

—T.a Von Doherty.

THINGS DON’T JUST HAPPEN

Things don’t just happen to us who love God; They’re planned by His own dear hand. Then molded, and shaped, and timed by His clock! Things don’t just happen; they’re planned. We don’t just guess on the issues of life, We Christians just rest in the Lord. We are directed by His sovereign will. In the light of His Holy Word. We praise our dear Savior for loving us so. For planning each care of our life; Then giving us faith to trust Him for all The blessings, as well as the strife.

Things don’t just happen to us who love God To us that have taken ourstand; No matter the lot, the course, or the price. Things don’t just happen; they’re planned.

We’re Squished! by Laura Siemens On the way to church one of our little girls piped up, "Mommy, I’m squish­ ed!" I was busy looking for my comb, (On a long drive to church you get quite a bit of grooming, and even dressing done.) I tried to soothe her with, "Isn’t it nice to have so many brothers and sisters?" in that irritatingly adult tone. Her sister added, "My leotards are getting dirty." After combing 1 looked back. My little "squished" girl sat there quite con­ tent-saucy black eyes looking up at me. That started me thinking. We Christ­ ians are all huddled together, just like our children-warming each other, task­ ing in the glow of each other’s lights. Maybe we revolt at first against the im­ mobility in our Christian lives. But we get used to it. All we really need to live the good Christian life is a set of good clothes. We believe in Christian service. Oh yes! We dress up and go to a Christian service. We don’t get to close to each other—afraid of soiling our good clothes. We listen to sermons till the good words come out of our ears. Is that our Christian service?

August 23,1974

-Esther L. Field

tlHRIST, THE SUPPLIER AND SATISFIER I. To the restless He gives rest (Matt. 11:28-30) 11. To the hopeless He gives hope (Rom. 5:5, 6) HI. To the helpless He gives help (Heb. 4.14-16) IV. To the lifeless He gives life (John 10:9, 10) V. To the friendless He gives friendship (John 15:15) VI. To the powerless He gives power (Acts 1:8) VII. To the joyless He gives joy (John 15:11) —George W. Myers

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Kews From the Chit re lies PORTAGE LA PRAIRIE Forty-campers made Camp Jubilee a lively place July 22-28. We thank God for willing workers who provided for the spiri­ tual and physical needs of the camp. The pictures show you one of the activities en­ joyed by the campers during "Trail Craft." Paul Ruten was the instructor. Cookings from a “hobo stove" consisted of fried eggs and bacon. Not all the stoves got started in the time allowed, because the kindling was not dry enough.

with about forty children attending. It was our (Abe Rempels) privilege to tour parts of Europe for three weeks. We had the opportunity of visiting in the homes of the John Dycks and John Friesens. We had a glimpse of the work of the Janz Team. One Sunday we attended the Basel Christian Fellowship, the guest speaker was Rev Boyce from Philadelphia who was one of the founders of that church. In France we enjoyed our visit with the David Afflecks and the fellowship with the Chris­ tians on Sunday. The pastor spoke on the theme “Running the Race" and gave some guidelines on how to be a good ath­ lete for Christ. The Afflecks are involved in the radio work in Marseille with Back to Bible Broadcast.

ROSEISLE

Pictured are Gordon Francis, Long Plains and Sammy Giesbrecht, Edwin during "Trail Craft” at Camp Jubilee, July 22-28.

Two more successful chefs on the "hobo stove” were Bradley Plett, Arden, and Arthur Toews, Bagot.

Rev Plett had the opportunity of serv­ ing at the Beaver Bible Camp and will be going to Red Rock Bible Camp as a speaker later on. Island Park Evangelism proved a real success the attendance was quite good. Thank you for praying, God answers pray­ ers. This week V.B.S. is in progress. In the afternoon classes are being taught at Long Plains with about twenty to twentyfive attending. In our church three different age groups are being taught in the evening Page 10

On June 23, 1974 our annual Sunday School picnic was held at Prairie Grove Fruit Farm, north of Morden. Worship service began at 10:00 a.m. with some sing­ ing and special numbers, including a pan­ tomine by the youth class. The children's club favoured us with a few songs. Guest speaker was Rev B. K. Friesen. After a barbeque everyone enjoyed the races and relays. Tug-of-wars and baseball games completed the events of the afternoon and the congregation then enjoyed a lunch of rollkuchen and watermelon. The next weekend was the annual con­ ference with some of the congregation at­ tending and receiving a blessing from the messages. July 14 a communion service was held in our church. July 21 was a very busy day for our con­ gregation. It began with the centennial celebration at Rosenort. The morning and afternoon services were very enjoyable and many of us learned more about our Mennonite heritage. In the evening the young people brought a program at Boyne Lodge while the first showing of the film “For Pete's Sake" was shown in church. Two showings of the film enabled the young people to see it also. The weekend of August 3 and 4 had a good time in store for the young people who attended their annual camp-out at Lake Mary Jane. Guest speaker was Leonard Barkman of Pansy. It seems the young people who were there for the first time showed the others who had attended before how they could have a good time. From the reports, everyone thoroughly en­ joyed themselves.

Some of the young people of our con­ gregation attended camp this year. Janet and Stuart Warkentin attended Winkler Bible Camp and three other girls; Diane Olfert, Mary Dyck, and Elaine Harms also attended camp. They learned many new things at camp and shared their experiences at the camp-out and also during the week of Vacation Bible School. Vacation Bible School was held the week of August 5 - 9. Teachers for this week were Mrs Katie Harms, Mrs Mary Loeppky. Mrs Alice Siemens and Mrs Selma Warkentin. Aides for the week were Lucille and Elaine Harms. Diane Olfert and Valerie Friesen. These leaders, aides and students were under the capable leadership of Mrs Martha Olfert. Congratulations are in order for the lovely program presented on the evening of the last class. Guest speakers during July and August were Deacon Levi Dueck and Rev P. L. Friesen. Thank you very much for the in­ spirational messages. Congratulations are extended to Mr and Mrs Ben Loeppky on the birth of a daugh­ ter, Darlene Jeanette on August 1.1974. A baby shower was held for Mrs Allan Morgan (Tina Thiessen) and her daugh­ ter Beverly born on July 21. The shower was held at Mrs Dennis Klassen's home on August. 10. About 20 ladies enjoyed a few games and a sociable lunch. Best wishes go to the new mother and baby. Also congratulations go to Mr and Mrs Jac Dyck who are enjoying their new granddaughter. Mr and Mrs John Klassen have a new granddaughter. It seems girls are very popular. August 11 was a rather cool day for a family gathering but that didn't stop the Corny Friesen family including Mr and Mrs Alfred Nickel. Mr and Mrs Dennis Klassen and Mr and Mrs James Friesen and Valerie Friesen from attending. Also the Henry Harms family attended the reunion at Blumenort. The occasion being the visit of the ladies' sister Mrs Henry Dueck and her husband and Anton and Adina from Belize. There were 83 of the family to­ gether.

HERON

Andrew Friesens have arrived to take over the Heron Church. Although they moved to their new location in the eastern suburb of Ebor back on July 12, Mr Friesen didn’t begin his actual pastor duties until August 11. During this time the Friesens had a vacation, attended an evangelism THE MESSENGER

1

camp (Navigators) in Kamloops, B.C. and To Mr and Mrs Allan Morgan of Home­ Mr Friesen directed Beaver Creek Camp wood, a daughter Beverly, on July 21, for a week. We are anticipating new vigor 1974. in our service for our Lord under Mr Fries­ To Mr and Mrs Ben Loeppky of Ro­ en’s leadership. Already his messages have seisle, a daughter Darlene Jeanette, on challenged us to greater dedication to August 1,1974. Christ. To Mr and Mrs Wayne Klassen of Elm One candidate, Barbara Thiessen, was Creek, a daughter Marsha Jade, on baptized August 4 by Rev Art Neufeld of August 11, 1974. Kola. During the same service Mrs Lawrence Penner, previously member of the Niverville Mennonite Church, was re­ WEDDINGS ceived into the membership of our church. Lawrence and Lenora were married June WALLACE—REIMER: Ian, son of Mr and 29. Several of our young people went as Mrs John Wallace of Niverville, Man. was counsellors to two camps. John Thiessen married to Elizabeth Daryl, daughter of and Ruth Thiessen went to Hilbry (Shanty­ Mr and Mrs Syd Reimer of Rosenort, man) and Gilbert Penner went to Kenosee Man., on July 6, 1974. The ceremony took place at the Elmwood Mennonite (CSSM). We were sorry to have Ben Thiessen hos­ Brethren Church with Rev Melvin Dueck pitalized He had two operations on his of Rosenort, Man. officiating. leg. We wish him a speedy recovery. We are proud to be part of the age of pro­ PLETT—REIMER: Ronald, son of Mr and gress. Kandell Thiessen and Audrey Kem­ Mrs Isaac K. Plett of Landmark, Man. ple, both of our church, have announced was married to Barbara, daughter of their engagement. Following their exam­ Mr and Mrs P. X. Reimer of Landmark, ple are Gilbert Penner of our church and Man., on March 9, 1974. The ceremony Margaret Reimer of Landmark. Both cou­ took place at the Prairie Rose E.M.C. ples plan November weddings. May God with Rev Harvey Plett of Steinbach of­ ficiating. bless you richly! To discover who has taken a vacation this spring and summer, I think you need only REIMER—FUNK: Philip, son of Mr and Mrs P. X. Reimer of Landmark, Man. read our church membership roster. BIRTHS

To Mr and Mrs Lome Friesen of Birch River, a son Lowell Shawn, on January

was married to Phyllis, daughter of Mr and Mrs P. W. Funk of Landmark, Man., on April 6, 1974. The ceremony took place at the Prairie Rose E.M.C. with Rev Melvin Koop of Steinbach officiating

17,1974. HILDEBRAND—REIMER: Bill, son of Mr and Mrs Dick Hildebrand of Landmark, Man. was married to Wendy, daughter of Mr and Mrs Melvin Reimer of Landmark, Man., on May 4, 1974. 1974. The ceremony took place at the Prairie To Mr and Mrs Irvin Kroeker of Rose- Rose E.M.C. with Rev. Edwin Plett of nort, a chosen daughter Andrea Jean, on Landmark officiating.

To Mr and Mrs Raymond Dueck of Riverton, a son Andr'e Kristin Dairs, on June 2, 1974. To Mr and Mrs Harry Brandt of Rosenort, a son Jeffrey Ward, on June 17,

«

June 30, 1974. To Mr and Mrs Eddy Friesen of Riverton, a son Lowell Scott, on April 7, 1974. To Mr and Mrs Paul Ruten of Portage la Prairie, a daughter Kimberly Joan, on

April 2, 1974. To Mr and Mrs Dennis Friesen of Steinbach, a daughter Kerri Ann, on

PENNER—FRIESEN: Lawrence, son of Mr and Mrs Isaac Penner of Maryfield, Sask, was married to Lenora, daughter of Mr and Mrs Isaac Friesen of Niver­ ville, Man., on June 29, 1974. The ceremony took place at the Niverville Mennonite Church.

December 18, 1973. To Mr and Mrs Harry Friesen of Klee- FERGUSON—PLETT: Niel, son of Mr feld, a son Jason Kim, on February and Mrs Theodore Ferguson of 27, 1974. Dufrense, Man. was married to Diane, To Mr and Mrs Larry Goertzen of daughter of Mrs Anna Plett of LandKleefeld, a son Keith Geoffrey, on March mark, Man., on July 6, 1974. The cere­ 23, 1974. mony took place at the Prairie Rose To Mr and Mrs Dan Koop of Japan, E.M.C. with Rev Ronald Penner of Landa daughter Iwyla Adele, on April 4, 1974. mark, Man. officiating. To Mr and Mrs Dave Warkentin of Steinbach, a son Dale David^ on' June 3' ,« 1974.

August 23,1974

DYCK—EIDSE: Larry, son of Mr and Mrs Jacob Dyck of Morden, Man. was mar­ ried to Sylvia, daughter of Mr and Mrs Abe B. Eidse of Rosenort, Man., on August 10, 1974. The ceremony took place at the Rosenort E.M.C. with Rev. Menno Kroeker of Rosenort, Man. of­ ficiating.

FRIESEN—BRAUN: Henry Richard, son of Mr and Mrs Henry F. Friesen of Rose­ nort, Man. was married to Helen Ber­ nice, daughter of Mt and Mrs Jacob L. Braun of Lowe Farm., on July 27, 1974, The ceremony took place at the Lowe Farm Bergthaler Mennonite Church with Rev Ed Funk of Lowe Farm, Man. officiating.

CONFERENCE OF MENNONITES OF CANADA MEET IN STEINBACH Meeting in Steinbach, Manitoba, July 2326 for their 72nd annual convention was the Conference of Mennonites of Canada. It was reported to be among the best attend­ ed conventions in the conference’s seventytwo-year history registering 535 delegates and 420 adult guests and children. The CMC is comprised of some 140 churches in Canada. The conference’s approved budget for 1975 totals $601,000 of which an estimated $226,000 will go to Canadian Mennonite Bible college in Winnipeg. One congregation, the Grande Prairie Mennonite church in Alberta was accepted into membership this year. The report also noted that several times during floor discussion delegates urged the conference to be more active in church plan­ ning. These comments came in light of re­ ports that the conference’s membership' had dipped slightly. Nearly 600 women attended the business meeting of the Canadian Women’s Mission­ ary Conference where Vera Fast of Winni­ peg spoke on "Mennonite pioneer women.” A young people's conference was held parallel to the Canadian conference. The youth activities included workshops, par­ ticipation in the creative arts and a nightly coffeehouse. Mennonite Pioneer Mission presented a resolution focusing on relationships to the native people. A statement approved by the delegates proposed a number of “concrete ways of showing our acceptance of Indians.” The Conference of Mennonites of Canada is part of the larger church known as the General Conference Mennonite Church comprising both Canada and the United States and South America. Total member­ ship according to the 1974 Mennonite year­ book is 59,250 of which 20,601 are in the Canadian Conference. Page 11

The Mennonite Church in Russia by Peter J. Dyck The words of Charles Dickens, "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times," describe the situation of the Mennonite church in the Soviet Union, It was "the best of times" for the last decade for the 50,000 Mennonites in the Soviet Union because the church is alive and witnessing. It witnesses on three levels. First, there is the testimony within its own ranks and among the many Baptist believers. Frequently Men­ nonites and Baptists are locally merged into one con­ gregation. Secondly, there is witnessing to the unbelieving popu­ lation. Mennonites find many opportunities at work and in private associations. One pastor recently reported six­ ty baptisms in his congregation. Another reported twenty, most of them young people. Thirdly, there is the witness to official authorities. Though Mennonites in Russia seek to be law-abiding citizens, they must occasionally appear in court because they obeyed God rather than man. When this happens, and when they are thrown into prison, they speak fear­ lessly of their faith in Jesus Christ to persons who other­ wise would not have had a chance to hear the gospel. It is also "the best of times" because, according to Article 124 of the Soviet constitution, freedom of con­ science and freedom of religious worship is guaranteed to all people. In practice, this means that any twenty persons can legally constitute a congregation and make application for official recognition as a church. It is "the best of times" because external conditions in Russia contribute to a constant sifting process of church members. The fainthearted and indifferent are soon weeded out by the external pressures to conform to a communist atheist society. If it is true, as Tertullian said, that the blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church, then there has been a lot of seeding in the Soviet Union in the past decades. It is "the worst of times" because with all other be­ lievers in the Soviet Union, Mennonites are second-class citizens subject to harrassment and persecution. Some Mennonites are always in jail for conscience sake. Many are discriminated against at work and harrassed in their communities. Young people frequently cannot obtain higher education when it becomes known that they are believers. When a group of twenty persons applies for official recognition as a legally constituted church, the government authorities frequently refuse to grant the permission, or simply engage in footdragging tactics for months and even years. When such a local group of

Page 12

believers finally takes matters into its own hands and meets in private homes, the police break up the meeting, impose heavy fines and arrest the leaders or the owner of the home. For such illegal private meetings of wor­ ship, the jail sentence is three to five years. It is "the worst of times” because there are not enough Bibles and hymnbooks, there are no other Christian publications, and it is virtually impossible for ministers to receive theological education and training. Govern­ ment permission recently granted for a limited corres­ pondence course is woefully inadequate. It is "the worst of times" because whenever a minister attracts people, especially young people, in any number to the worship services, of which there are normally two or three every Sunday and two or three during the week, he will soon be informed that it will not be good for his health if he continues such a vigorous ministry. So he has the choice of conducting a dull and routine service or face the possibility of being removed from office. All of this is understandable and perhaps even logical if one remembers that the communist government is officially an atheist government and, consequently, opposed to all religion, whether Christian, Jewish or Muslim. Mennonites coming out of Russia in recent years to join their close relatives in Canada and West Germany give evidence of being deeply spiritual and much con­ cerned about-the church. On the other hand, it is also clear that because of their history of persecution, es­ pecially under Stalin, their lack of leadership and other external and internal factors, they tend to be what we in the West would call "narrow". They are often legalis­ tic and dogmatic, much concerned about eschatology and the events of the end times. They have little under­ standing of our concern for social action. Their under­ standing of the church seems to be primarily as an institution mediating salvation from God to man rather than as a vehicle for such social concerns as peace and justice. For this situation the Government bears much res­ ponsibility because it forbids the church to be active in social programs. On the one hand the Government has driven Christians into the four walls of the sanctuary, compelling it to a ghetto existence and on the other hand criticizes it for being "other worldly" and irrelevant to life on earth. It is all part of a deliberate plan to weaken and kill the church. But the church in the Soviet Union is alive and well.

THE MESSENGER

Jisvs iNsaano ijns IS aax'iva oo£i Koniji xcyj