The Messenger August 6, 1976

The Messenger EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE

VOL. 14 NO. 16

• The Ones Who Are Left • E.M.C. Reaches Out to Europe

AUG. 6/76

Elisabeth Elliot, author of nine books and herself twice bereaved of a life partner, gives six simple things that have helped her through the valley of the shadow and that still help her.

The Ones Who Are Left by Elisabeth Elliot

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t’s gone." I could see the yellow-spoked wheel of the spare tire, perched on the back of a 1934 Plymouth, disappear over the hilltop. The car in which I might have got a ride home from elementary school on this rainy day had gone and I was left. It’s gone.” The trainman stood at the only lighted gate in Penn Station. The train had gone, leaving me behind to figure out how on earth I was to make a speaking engagement on Long Island in an hour and a half. We’ve all experienced the desolation of being left in one way or another. And sooner or later many of us experience the greatest desolation of all: he’s gone. The one who made life what it was for us, who was, in fact, our life. And we were not ready. Not really prepared at all. We felt, when the fact stared us in the face, “No. Not yet.” For however bravely we may have looked at the possibilities (if we had any warning at all), however calmly we may have talked about them with the one who was about to die (and I had a chance to talk about the high risks with my first husband, and about the human hopelessness of his situation with my second), we are caught short. If we had another week, perhaps, to brace ourselves. A few more days to say what we wanted to say, to do or undo some things, wouldn’t it have been better, easier? But silent, swift, and implacable the Scythe has swept by, and he is gone, and we are left. We stand bewildered on the sidewalk, on the station platform. Yet, most strangely, that stunning snatching away has changed nothing very much. There is the sunlight lying in patches on the familiar carpet just as it did yesterday. The same dis­ hes stand in the rack to be put away as usual, his razor and comb arc on the shelf, his shoes in the closet (O the shoes! molded in the always recognizable shape of his feet). The mail comes, the phone rings, Wednesday gives way to Thursday and this week to next week, and you have to keep getting up in the morning (“Life must go on, 1 forget just why,” wrote Edna St. Vincent Millay) and combing your hair (for whom, now?), eating breakfast (remember to get out only one egg now, not three), making the bed (who cares?). You have to meet people who most fervently wish they could pass by on the other side so as not to have to think of some­ thing to say. You have to be understanding with their attempts to

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be understanding, and when they nervously try to steer you away from the one topic you want so desperately want.to talk about you have to allow yourself to be steered away - for their sakes. You re­ sist the temptation, when they say he’s “passed away”, to say “No, he’s dead, you know.” After a few months you've learned those initial lessons. You begin to say “I” instead of “we” and people have sent their cards and flowers and said the things they ought to say and their lives are going on and so, astonishingly, is yours and you’ve “adjusted” to some of the differences — as if that little mechanical word, a mere tinkering with your routines and emotions, covers the ascent from the pit. I speak of the “ascent". I am convinced that every death, of whatever kind, through which we are called to go, must lead to a resurrection. This is the core of Christian faith. Death is the end of every life and leads to resurrection, the beginning of every new one. It i.s a progression, a proper progression, the way things were meant to be. the necessary means of ongoing life. It is supremely impor­ tant that every bereaved person be helped to see this. The death of the beloved was the beloved’s own death, “a very private personal matter," Gert Bchanna says, “and nobody should ever dare to try to get in on the act." But the death of the beloved is also the lover’s death, for it means, in a different but perhaps equally fearsome way, a going through the Valley of the Shadow. I can think of six simple things that have helped me through this valley and that help me now. f-'irsi, I try to he stilt and know that He is God. That advice com­ es from Psalm 46, which begins by describing the sort of trouble from which God is our refuge — the earth’s changing, or “giving way" as the Jerusalem Bible puts it, the mountains shaking, the waters roaring and foaming, nations raging, kingdoms tottering, the earth melting. None of these cataclysms seems an exaggeration of what happens when somebody dies. The things that seemed most dependable have given way altogether. The whole world has a different look and you find it hard to get your bearings. Shadows can be very confusing. But in both psalms we are reminded of one rock solid fact that nothing can change: Thou art with me. The Lord of Hosts is with us, the God of Jacob is our refuge. We feel

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that we arc alone, yet we are not alone. Not for one moment has He left us alone. He is the one who has “wrought desolations”, to be sure. He makes wars cease, breaks bows, shatters spears, burns chariots (breaks hearts, shatters lives?), but in the midst of all this hullabaloo we arc commanded, "Be slill." Be still and know. Stillness is something the bereaved may feel they have entirely too much of. But if they will use that stillness to take a long look at Christ, to listen attentively to his voice, they will get their bearings. There arc several ways of looking and listening that help us avoid being dangerously at the mercy of our (heaven forefend!) "gut­ level" feelings. Bible reading and prayer are obvious ones. Taking yourself by the scruff of the neck and setting aside a definite time in a definite place for deliberately looking at what God has said and listening to what he may have to say to you today is a good exer­ cise. And if such exercises are seen as an obligation, they have the same power other obligations — cooking a meal, cleaning a bathroom, vacuuming a rug - have to save us from ourselves. Another means of grace is repeating the creed. Here is a list of objective facts that have not been in the smallest detail altered by what has happened to us. Far from it. Not only have they not been altered; they do actually alter what has happened — alter our whole understanding of human life and death, lift it to another plane. We can go through the list and contemplate our situation in the light of each tremendous truth. It is simply amazing how different my situa­ tion can appear as a result of this discipline.

“I know of nothing more paralyzing, more deadly, than self-pity. It is a death that has no resurrection, a sink-hole from which no rescuing hand can drag you because you have chosen to sink.” The second thing / try lo do is to give thanks. I cannot thank God for the murder of one or the excruciating disintegration of another, but I can thank God for the promise of his presence. 1 can thank him that he is still in charge, in the face of life’s worst terrors, and that “this slight momentary affliction is preparing for us (not ‘us for') an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, because we look not to the things that arc seen but to the things that are un­ seen." Tm back to the creed again and the things unseen that are listed there, standing solidly (yes, solidly, incredible as it seems) against things seen (the fact of death, my own loneliness, this empty room). And I am lifted up by the promise of that "weight" of glory, so far greater than the weight of sorrow that at times seems to grind me like a millstone. This promise enables me to give thanks. Then / Uy to refuse selfpity. I know of nothing more paralyzing, more deadly, than self-pity. It is a death that has no resurrection, a sink hole from which no rescuing hand can drag you because you have chosen to sink. But it must be refused. In order to refuse it, of course, I must recognize it for what it is. Amy Carmichael, in her sword thrust of a book If wrote, "If I make much of anything ap­ pointed, magnify it secretly to myself or insidiously to others, then I know nothing of Calvary love." That's a good definition of self-pity — making much of the “appointed”, magnifying it, dwelling on one’s own losses, looking with envy on those who appear to be more fortunate than oneself, asking “why me, Lord?” (remember­ ing the “weight of glory” ought to be a sufficient answer to that question). It is one thing to call a spade a spade, to acknowledge that this thing is indeed suffering. It’s no use telling yourself it’s nothing. When Paul called it a “slight” affliction he meant it only by

AUGUST 6. 1976

“The last of the helps I have found is to do something for somebody else. There is nothing like definite, overt action to overcome the inertia of grief.” comparison with the glory. But it’s another thing to regard one’s own suffering as uncommon, or disproportionate, or undeserved. What have “deserts” got to do with anything? We are all under the Mercy, and Christ knows the precise weight and proportion of our sufferings — he bore them. He carried our sorrows. He suffered, wrote George Macdonald, not that we might not suffer, but that our sufferings might be like his. The next thing to do is to accept my loneliness. When God takes a loved person away from my life it is in order to call me, in a new way, to himself. It is therefore a vocation. It is in this sphere, for now, anyway, that I am to learn of him. Every stage on the pilgrimage is a chance to know him, to be brought to him. Loneliness is a stage (and thank God, only a stage) when we are terribly aware of our own helplessness. It “opens the gates of my soul," wrote Katherine Mansfield, “and lets the wild beats stream howling through.” We may accept this, thankful that it brings us to the Very Present Help. The acceptance of loneliness can be followed immediately by the ofl'cring of it up to God. Something mysterious and miraculous transpires as soon as something is held up in our hands as a gift. He takes it from us. as Jesus took the little lunch when five thousand people were hungry. He gives thanks for it and then, breaking it, transforms it for the good of others. Loneliness looks pretty paltry as a gift to offer to God — but then when you come to think of it so docs anything else we might offer. It needs transforming. Others looking at it would say exactly what the disciples said, “What’s the good of that with such a crowd?” But it was none of their business what use the Son of God would make of it. And it is none of ours. It is ours only to give it. The last of the helps I have found is to do something for somebody else. There is nothing like definite, overt action to over­ come the inertia of grief. The appearance of Joseph of Arimathea to take away the body of Jesus must have greatly heartened the other disciples, so prostrate with their own grief that they had probably not thought of doing anything at all. Nicodemus, too, thought of something he could do - he brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes — and the women who had come with Jesus from Galilee went off to prepare spices and ointments. This clear-cut action lifted them out of themselves. That is what we need in a time of crisis. An old piece of wisdom is “Doc the next thynge.” Most of us have someone who needs us. If we haven’t, we can find someone. Instead of praying only for the strength we ourselves need to survive, this day or this hour, how about praying for some to give away? How about trusting God to fulfull his own promise, “My strength is made perfect in weakness”? Where else is his strength more perfect­ ly manifested than in a human being who, well knowing his own weakness, lays hold by faith on the Strong Son of God, Immortal Love? It is here that a great spiritual principle goes into operation. Isaiah 58: IO-12 says, “If your pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in the darkness and your gloom be as the noonday. And the Lord will guide you continually and satisfy your desire with good things, and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters fail not, and ... you shall be (Next page please)

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called a repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to dwell in (or,

lie had prayed it. St. Frances was most certainly during those nights

in another translation, ‘paths leading home.’).’’

in 1973 an instrument of God’s peace.

The condition on which all these wonderful gifts (light, guidance,

Perhaps it is peace, of all God's earthly gifts, that in our extremi­

satisfaction, strength, refreshment to others) rests in an unexpected

ty we long for most. A priest told me of a terminally ill woman who

one - unexpected, that is, if we are accustomed to think in material

asked him each time he came to visit only to pray, “The peace of

instead of in spiritual terms. The condition is not that one solve his

God which passeth all understanding keep your hearts and minds

own problcm,s first. He need not “get it together.” The condition is

through Christ Jesus.” I have often prayed, in thinking of the many bereaved, the words

simply “if you pour yourself out."

of the beautiful hymn “Sun of my Soul”:

Countless others have found this to work. St. Francis of Assisi

put the principle into other words in his great prayer. “Lord, make

Be every mourner’s sleep tonight

me an instrument of thy peace. Where there is darkness let me sow

Like infant slumbers, pure and bright.

light, where there is sadness, joy ... Grant that 1 may not so much

There they arc - six things that, if done in faith, can be the way

seek to be consoled as to console... For it is in giving that we

to resurrection: be still and know, give thanks, refuse self-pity,

receive; it is in pardoning that we are pardoned; it is in dying that

accept the loneliness, offer it to God, turn your energies toward the

we arc born to eternal life." The words of this prayer were like a

satisfaction not of your own needs but of others’. And there will be

light to me in the nights of my husband’s last illness, and I

not calculating the extent to which ..,

wondered then at the marvel of a man’s prayer being answered (was

Prom the ground there blossoms red Life that shall endless

I the millionth to be blessed by it?) some seven hundred years after

be.

letters I BELIEVE IN PRAYER

who delights in answering prayer. Is it any

a dozen, and some of them asked several

wonder that I

others to join the circle.

believe in prayer? A few

months ago. my husband and I took part in

The other night I heard her happy voice

a melt together prayer meeting, where one

telling me. after her three week stay in the

about his

hospital. “I'm home and I’m well. Thank-you

brother was especially burdened

lather, who, well aged and illiterate, lived

Docs prayer really work?

Did it ever

without

Christ

in

a Godless community

so much for praying. And please tell all those

others who were praying, a big thank-you. I appreciate it so much.”

make a concrete, black and white difference

some five thousand milc.s away. Could our

to anyone? Someone declared, “It works alright. It

“human" prayers overcome such odds? —

Let us pray more, because thanks to God,

Uniting hearts and hands, we prayed and

it works. Your prayer could make all the

conditions your heart to accept the in­ received the assurance that God was hearevitable.” How true, and yet that statement Jng. On July 13, the brother flew to Germany

difference in the world to someone. Will you pray?

recks of untruth, for that, alas, is only one of

to make one more attempt to win his father

the thing.s that prayer docs. “The effectual.

to Christ. At a service before he left he asked

Belly Barkman

fervent prayer of a righteous man (woman or

all those to stand who would pledge prayer

Pansy, Man.

child) availcth MUCH.”

support. Many stood.

When my mother was dying slowly of

When we received the joyful news of the

cancer, and I had the privelege of being a

father’s conversion I shared it with another

nurse at her bedside, she would frequently,

brother. Jubilantly he answered, “Really? Is

when the pain got almost unbearable, ask me

il really true? I can hardly believe it. Now I will pray with greater faith for my father and

to pray. Each time after prayer, the stifled moans would be replaced by a smile, and she

would

helps.

whisper “It

Prayer always

my wife’s father." Both of their fathers are alcoholics,

and

real

boozers

at

that.

Wouldn’t you like the honour of being a

helps.” What did that prayer help? It didn’t take

prayer warricr for them, until their salvation

away the cancer, nor the need of drugs, but it

becomes reality?

did take away the fear, leaving peace instead.

Lately one of our loved ones became

It did temporarily case the pain. Now is that

strangely

as far as MUCH availeth? In her case it was.

burdened that I fell on my knees, crying out

year

I

seriously

ill.

I

became so

to God for help. Then I felt the need to enlist

but is it always? Last

and

was

in

critical

condition

others for prayer help. Now it is rather un­

hcalthwisc„ for some time. After it was all

usual. to phone people asking them to pray

over, the specialists recorded the case with

specifically, at a specific time each day until

like

most

rare,

unnatural,

un­

prayer would be answered, but that is what I

believable.

Why

were

the

results

un­

believed God wanted me to do. In my first

believable? Because hundreds of people were

attempt I was so broken that it turned out to

praying, including many who didn’t even know us personally. I OWE MY LIFE and

be more sobs than words. Maybe God didn’t

the life of our little son to them and to a God

rubbed it in. Should I quit? — I asked about

words

mind - He can use even tears; but Satin sure

CONTRIBUTERS THIS ISSUE: Our lead article is by a personality who is well known. Elisabeth Elliot is a writer living in Hamilton, Massachusetts. Her first husband died at the hands of Auca Indians in Ecuador in 1956 (for a recent look at the Christianity among the Aucas see the interview with Rachel Saint in the January 2, 1976 issue), and her second husband died of cancer in 1973. She is the author of nine books, the most recent entitled “These Strange Ashes” (1975). Copyright 1976, by Christianity Today, used by permission. In our missions section you will again read about some exciting happenings, Joy and Praise in Nicaragua, by Lester Olferts; Chrisl is Ihe Answer, by Abe Plett in Mexico; Believers Added to the Church, by Ernest and Elsie Funk, gives an account of a wedding and church growth in East Paraguay. Please take note also of recent mis­ sionary departures. I’m sure all of those named would covet our prayers. COVER PHOTO: Moon Lake in Riding Mountain National Park. By the editor.

THE MESSENGER is published every other week by the Evangelical Mennonite Conference, Board of Education and Publication, Box 1268, Stein­ bach, Manitoba, ROA 2A0. Second Class Mail, Registration Number 0591. Undeliverable copies, change of address and new subscriptions should be mail­ ed to the above address.

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from the editor NO ‘UNDERGROUND’ CHURCH IN RUSSIA "Underground church," said a recently come from Russia speaker, “is the wrong word. A church is always visible. It did not go underground. We call them Registered and Unregistered." Gerhard Hamm and Heim Martens, now from Germany, were speakers in an area church here recently and gave a first-hand ac­ count of conditions in Russia. Yes, they said, the situation was no longer like in the '3O's when they were not even allowed to sing at funerals or when people were apprehended, neighbours did not even dare to render assistance to the family, for fear of reprisals. Today this i.s different. However they cannot advertise and Children's services and Youth meetings are forbidden, according to the report. “Some will say in Russia there is the same liberty as in Canada.” said preacher Hamm. But he countered with, “I have never seen it. I have seen something entirely different with many times church assemblies disrupted." He cited Acts chapter four saying, “The same happens in Russia today." “Brethren let us examine ourselves," said Mr. Hamm in closing, “Where are our tears? Where are our prayers?” “In Russia there is much weeping," said Mr. Martens the other speaker who had come out in January of this year. On the other hand he is astounded at the moral collapse in America. Conditions that he docs not even sec in Russia prevail here, according to him. What if the Western press carries accounts of events transpiring in Russia? Docs this trigger repercussions in the East? The answer to this maybe is contrary to what we have sometimes heard. “The biggest error." said Martens, “is if we in the West do nothing and say nothing." He gave examples where incidents of atrocities had leaked into the western press which had so embarassed the per palrators that they had in at least one case made restitution. Both Hamm and Martens come from the so called Unregistered church. These churches arc those which do not go along with the restrictions placed upon them according to the law. Neither, ap­ parently, arc Christians put in prison for their faith, but because ac­ cording to the statutes of the land, they are law breakers. Wc might add here that the difference between Registered and Unregistered is that the former consists of believers meeting legally in churches under certain restrictions and conditions. The Unregistered have refused to register as long as the State interfered directly in church affairs. Now this evidently is the main reason why we hear conflicting reports about the church in the East Bloc. However in West Ger­ many the rift between registered and unregistered does not exist among immigrant.s from the Soviet Union. What should our attitude be? Are we in a situation to pass judgement? I fear not. Much rather should we be in a prayerful at­ titude for our brethren behind the iron curtain. — D.S.

WHY DO WE GO TO CHURCH? Can you imagine a conversation something like the following from two people meeting on the street?

“Where are yon going?" “Supper." "Why?" “O, its a status symbol, you know.”

"Any other reasons?" “Oh yes. a number. I go to meditate. Then I also go to meet friends there. Then of course there is the matter of habit. I go out of

AUGUST 6. 1976

habit. It's a good habit, you know. Then there's the matter of nothing better to do. so I might as well go and eat.” You meet another person and you ask him the same question. He's in a hurry. No time for trifling. “Man," he says impatiently, “I'm going home to eat because I'm hungry. And what's more if I didn't eat regularly my body would run down and Td soon be unfit to work." You stand and ponder this for a while and you have to say, "that man certainly has something there." Now lets change the allegory from physical food to spiritual food. How many of us go to church for the reasons the first man mentioned? I think too often, when we should go because w'e are hungry and because God says, “Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proccedeth out of the mouth of God.” Unless wc arc sick! Yes, sick. You know when a man is sick he doc.s not desire food. Maybe we are sick? In need of a checkup. Some people seem to think they can feed on the world and grow in the Spirit. It docs'nt work that way though. Just as the body needs good wholesome food and exercise, so does the spirit. Starve one and you have trouble. Starve the other and you have trouble. There is such a thing as reading the word for ourselves and there is such a thing as receiving the word from someone else. Joshua was told to immerse himself in the word of God. The Psalmist writes about the person whose delight is in the law of the Lord. Just as wc need food for the body, we need food for the soul — even more. Just as we desire growth in our children, so God desires growth in His children. For this wc require spiritual sustenance. Peter gives us a recipe for spiritual growth when he writes in the first Epistle of Peter ch. 2:2 "As newborn babes desire the sincere milk of the Word, that ye may grow thereby." But you may ask “How does this work?” Let me illustrate. In our Bible reading and meditation we come across a passage that condemns a certain action or practise that we have been doing. Maybe wc have been doubtful about it but never really convinced. Now wc sec it condemned and we repent and forsake it! We have made a step forward in our spiritual growth. Speaking with a Christian business man a number of years ago he told me that he had been a very enthusiastic fisherman, but he had seen that it was fast taking a too large place in his life and he had judged himself in the matter, because it was standing between himself and the Lord. That is profitable self discipline! He had grown spiritually! Paul also has a beautiful and precious promise concerning the Word when he says in Acts 2:32 that the word is “. . .able to build you up..." vitamins. Well here we have spiritual vitamins, minerals and proteins! Try them for a spiritual rundown condition and see if Paul was not right when he made that statement! Get your strength from God's word. Joshua just a.s he was taking over the leadership of that great (and oft rebellious) nation of Isreal, received this command from the Lord concerning the Word. “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein; for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous and then thou shalt have good success.” (Josh. 1:8. Have you ever tried it? If not then say that it doesn't work! David found the secret of spiritual growth when he said "Thy word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against Thee.” The word kept him from sin. — D.S.

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missions the Gospel and was saved, and is a positive testimony to his family. When Doris first met Pilar, she noticed that she had a real hunger for spiritual things, so she offered her a Bible course. In a short while Pilar betame a Christian by herself as she was answering the questions on salvation. Now her concern is for her hus­ band and*family. Recently Filipe and Cindy Cruz (E.M.C. Mexican Evangelist and his wife) went with me to visit Pilar and Jose. After a time of chatting with Pilar, her husband came home. Soon he waj sharing his doubts and fears with Felipe. “I have seen God change lives of men who were wicked sinners, but 1 can’t believe Christ will forgive me. I am a murderer.” Felipe tactfully talked to him for sometime. Although he listened attentively he didn’t seem to be ready to accept salva­ tion yet. A few days later Felipe and Cindy had a Bible study in their home. Jose was not pre­ sent but the rest of the family was. The four Pictured is the group which was present for the official organization meeting of teenagers seemed to enjoy the whole service. the EMC work in Germany. Front row left to right; Mrs. Doreen Peters, Mrs Elizabeth Two of the boys, ages 15 and 17, would like Reimer, Priscilla Reimer, (visitor), Lillie Penner, Mrs Joyce Dyck, John Dyck. Back go to the Youth Conference July 2-3 in row: John Peters, Lee Reimer, Ron Penner, Henry P. Dyck, Peter Dueck and John K. Chihuahua City. It seems however, that Reimer, The meeting took place in Loerrach, Germany. they don’t have the means to go. We have great hopes for this family. There is forgiveness for Jose.

EMC Enters Fifth Country

June 4. 1976 marked the day of organization of our EMC work in Ger­ many. This is the fifth country in which we carry on our own mission work. In ad­ dition to this we of course have mis­ sionaries in some 14 other countries working in our associate mission program. Present for this memorable occasion were John K. Reimer executive secretary and H.P. Dyck, board member of the Mission Board. Official name of the work agreed upon at the organization meeting was Evangelikale Missionsgemeinschaft. Translated into English this would be the equivalent of “Evangelical Missions Fellowship.” Incorporation papers are also in the process of being worked out. The executive of this new body con­ sists of John Peters, chairman; Lee

Reimer, vice-chairman; and Lothar Hiller, secretary-treasurer. Immediate goals call for establishing a work in Seesen (Hanover area of Ger­ many). In fact this work is already in progress with Sunday services, Bible study, prayer meetings and youth meetings, as well as children’s meetings. Average attendance on Sunday is around thirty. Some may already be prepared for membership. Long range plans call for outreach in the area generally north of the present site. By way of personnel there is a need for a few more workers or a couple in particular. We invite our readers to bear this work up before the throne of grace. Shall we also pray the Lord of the harvest to thrust forth workers.

Pilar Becomes A Christian About a month ago Doris Thiessen suggested that I visit Pilar, a new Christian since January. I received a warm welcome in her home. She was a school teacher before PAGE 6

she was married. She is 47 and her husband Jose is 50. They live in Juarez, and have eight children. The oldest son is married and lives in California. He came in contact with

— Dora Friesen

Joy and Praise In Nicaragua Faith Rewarded It all started when Beria took her turn at bringing the refreshments to one of the Vaca­ tion Bible School sessions; or perhaps I should say it started with the Luis Palau crusade. It was one of the last days of the crusade that Berta accepted the Lord, after a long and difficult struggle. Her involvements were of such a nature that it would likely break up her home if she would accept yet the Spirits wooing was stronger than all fear of man or self. She made a total committ­ ment and desired baptism knowing that her life would also have to be straightened out. She had been living common law with a married man for many years. But that was not the story I wanted to tell. At 5:00 a.m. on the morning of the day she wa.s to take the refreshments to V.B.S. she still had no money with which to buy the

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mission-grams DEPARTURES

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Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Hildebrandt left on July 27 for the Muree Christian School in Pakistan. They will be involved as houseparents in the boys’ dorm. Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Reimer with their two sons returned to Panama on August 1. Their major responsibilities will be in the field directorship and in Theological Education by Extension. Miss Irene Kroeker left for Mexico on July 29. She will be involved in Chihuahua City in children’s and women’s work.

Mr. Harvey Plett returned to the Bahamas on August 4 to resume his responsibilities at the Windemere High School. He is the business manager at the school.

Miss Alvira Friesen Is scheduled to leave for Panama on August 8. She will resume her responsibilities in the missionary children’s school and help in the national churches.

Wayne and Carol (Joy) Hildebrand left for Pakistan July 27.

V

I

Elvira Friesen left for Panama August 8.

bought tortillas for supper, and they all ate. Several months later, an accountant at one of the large factories here, accepted the 'Lord thru Berta’s witness. His public tes­ timony that night was how Berta’s faith had inspired him, and he specifically mentioned the account of the above supplying money. He went on to say, God had to speak to me in a special way; as I was walking to church 1 found C$2.00 at my feet on a busy path, and I knew this God was real and 1 want Him." “I want Him to change my life and my home." How thrilling it is to know that a faithful witness is rewarded. As in Berta’s case, a very humble, poor lady was able to com­ municate to a high class accountant by her bubbling countenance and willingness to speak of her wonderful Lord.

Subiniiied by Darlene Olfert

NICARAGUA Cont’d.

ingredients for the drink, but she did have a great faith. She mentioned her problem to her husband and went outside to pray. Her husband slipped her $10.00 which was a help but not nearly enough to give a drink to 80 100 children. So she opened her heart to the Lord as she walked and prayed. When lo and behold in the grass at her feet she found another $10.00 bill. With a shout of praise and joy she ran to the house, hurriedly got the things ready to serve her refreshments, a quick trip to the store and her daughter, who was a teacher, had with her enough to serve all the children a generous portion. By the way she was C$4.00 to the good with which she AUGUST 6. 1976

Sequel: Homes Reunited In Kamayala The readers may remember HOMES REUNITED IN KAMA Y/IL/I by Ben and Helen Eidse in the March 6 Messenger. To day ite have a sequel to that story — a happy one. — Ed. You asked about Kabeya and wife... a very timely question. We’ve been wanting to tell you and maybe also the Messenger readers about the Lord’s working in their lives.

The proverbial stove pipe which Kabeya and Ailleen had to piece together when we left them at the swamp that day was how to get along with Kabeya’s second wife. When Kabeya had brought her home a few months earlier she was expecting a baby. Ailleen found the two wife situation unbearable and went home to live with her folks. Consequently when we counselled Kabeya about their separation he admitted.” 1 know I’ve done wrong but I don’t know if Ailleen will want to come back.” Kabeya, however did persuade her, and when we visited there a month later both were taking part in the church services, at their school post. Two months ago the young wife had her baby. A few days later the baby died of tetanus of the new born. After the bural Kabeya came to our house. I felt that he was looking for moral support. So I said, “Kabeya, it seems to me the Lord is teaching you something. If He is showing You the way you should go, don’t be afraid to follow. The Lord loves you and will continue to show you what to do.” He agreed and left. Just this week I heard that he made the proper arrangements with the family of his second wife. He paid the required price for his involvement with her and returned her to her home. I know that Ailleen is thankful for the answered prayers on their behalf. But un­ derstandably they will still feel the need of the help of God to heal the wounds and to have victory over temptation. Ruffin and his wife are together too. They have come for counsel, and are hoping to make their home what each wants it to be. (More missions next page)

PAGE 7

Christ Is The Answer "His life changed! His vices vanished." They had been married for two years. But as in many cases, even though Lydia was a Christian, her main concern had been to get married, not taking too much into considera­ tion what kind of a person Elias, her hus­ band to be, was. Though Elias had concealed his drinking habit to some extent from Lydia during their courtship, nevertheless, soon after their wedding he plunged full length into drinking and seemingly their marriage was unsmooth almost from start. The first year and a half Elias was away from home working most of the time and Lydia stayed with her parents. This of course, aided in evading difficulties. Later they moved to the city, but things went from bad to worse. As the family responsibilities increased, Elias indulged deeper into drinking, leaving his wife and baby practically with nothing. Things became to be so bad that Lydia decided to return home to her parents with her son and let Elias shift for himself. This move seemed to have shaken Elias into his senses, since

two days later he caught up with Lydia at her parents' home. No doubt, Elias was searching his heart quite thoroughly during the week they stayed there together. The following Sunday, during the morning worship service he repented and received Christ as hi.s Saviour. His life changed com­ pletely! His vices vanished! Two days later, together as a family they returned to the city where Elias had left his employment. At present they are renting a one room apartment and are starting to fur­ nish it with their own furniture. Life has taken a completely different meaning for them. They arc rejoicing in the Lord and now, three months after Elias' con­ version they are climbing from victory to victory. Together with another couple and two young people they form a small E. M. C. congregation in the city they live. They have high expectations for the growth of their con­ gregation since joyfully they witness daily to fellow employees and people around them. — Abe PielI

ta, made a decision a few years ago, helped her daughter to know the Lord. Although the father is not a Christian, the family is being taught the principles of a Christian home. Julian and Arcadia arc the first EMC young people of the Paraguayan church to take this step. Can two walk together except they be agreed (Amos 3:3). We trust that their example will help other young people to make a wise choice.

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Ernest and Elsie Funk

AIMM Considers New Work In Upper Volta

Formerly a part of what was known dur­ ing the eolonial period as French West Africa, Upper Volta is being actively con­ sidered as an area of new outreach by the Africa Inter Mennonite Mission. Lying on the southern edge of the Sahel it, too, was sharply affected by the severe drought which in recent years caused such havoc in that part of Africa. In response to the desperate need for water, the MCC sent an initial team of workers into the country about two years ago under the leadership of Peter and Esther Hicbert. It was primarily through the con­ tacts of MCC team personnel and visiting administrative staff from Akron that an awareness of Upper Volta and its needs developed. While Protestant Missions have been at work in the country since the early l920's, there still arc language groups which have not been reached with the Gospel. When it was learned that the mission/church that arc attracted to the church? groups presently at work in the country Looking over the church work here in would welcome another evangelical mission Paraguay, we have to admit that progress in organization in the country, the AIMM the above mentioned areas is slow, although Board named a delegation to visit Upper during the last few years there has been Volta in June of this year. marked progress in all three areas. Even in Desiring to make it a joint investigation the last few months three young people have with the Mennonite Church of Zaire (French professed salvation and a fair number of un­ abbreviation, CMZA) a representative from that church was invited to be part of the believers are attending the services. July 17 will be remembered as a land three man study committee. Thus it was that mark for the Paraguayan church. Two Rev. Ghymalu Kianza from Nyanga, Zaire young people, both believers, were united in joined Elmer Neufeld, AIMM board vicepresident, and James Bcrtsche, AIMM ex­ marriage. Julian, a believer since less than a ecutive secretary, in Ouagadougou, the year ago, studied a lot with a Catholic priest. Upper Voltan capital, in early June. In order to insure his safety against the At the conclusion of two weeks of discus­ evangelicals, he had the priest order a sion and travel, the three-man study team Catholic Bible for him. When he began drew up a series of recommendations. A key reading his Bible, questions started to form proposal is that the AIMM open a new field in his mind. Why not get an evangelical Bible of missionary work in the Republic of Upper Volta in collaboration with the Zaire Menand compare? he thought. He soon found that basically there was no nonitc Church. The detailed recommendations of the difference. He began a real search in the study committee are to be submitted to the Word. Soon after he found peace and full AIMM Board in its fall meeting at Mor­ forgiveness of sins in the Lord Jesus Christ — ton, Illinois, on October 25. In the meantime, no more insurance policies needed against the recommendations are already under con­ the evangelicals. sideration by the administration of the Zaire His bride, Arcadia, whose mother, Jacin- Church.

Believers Added To The Church "He began a real search in the Word”

Julian and Arcadia How do you mark progress in an evangelical church? By the number of people that profess salvation? By the unbelievers

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THE MESSENGER

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(^urch news * .... - *' ».

Illi involved in preparation and follow-up of the erusadcs of the Janz Team. The serviee was dismissed just before 9 p. m. so we eould attend the film serviee at Island Park, which our church sponsors together with the Alliance church every Sun­ day evening for the summer. After a musical opening a Christian film is shown out in the open air at the band shell. Also visiting us were former Portagers Pete and Kathy Rempel and family from Cranbrook, B. C.

YOUTH ACTIVITIES

At a picnic everybody runs! Kleefeld: It’s heart warming to see groups of all ages teaming with church activity. Our Baptized at MacGregor July 18 were first group of about sixty, five to eleven year JULY ACTIVITIES (seen with Rev. Koop) left to right old youngsters, got together for five-day club Arden: July 3rd. the frequently cancelled at five dilTcrcnt homes. If the enthusiasm that Lorraine Unruh, Janet Martens, Debra prevailed at their July 26 closing program Sunday School picnic finally took place. At Klassen and Kenton Giesbrecht. was evident all week, then needless to say 6:00 p. m. a number of cars were seen head­ they must have had a great time of it, sing­ ed for the Arden Park. Not only did healthy, BAPTISM AND ing, Bible Stories, and prayer sessions. They hungry, people emerge from the cars but COMMUNION also memorized Bible verses, and in a simple also barbeques, bats, balls, gloves, and other MacGregor: On July 18th four young and loving way the plan of salvation was ex­ essential items. After a supper of ham­ people obeyed the command of our Lord and burgers, hot dogs, and ice-cream, races and a plained to all. were baptized. Baptized were Lorraine ball game commenced. Due to a prevalent There is a time to work and a time to play. Unrah, Debra Klassen, Kenton Giesbrecht Our next active group, the Young Teens, handicap of rapid onset, (a heavy stomach) and Janet Martens. Rev. John Koop of­ directed by Norman and Rosella Bartel dis­ the activities progressed a little slower than ficiated. Also on the evening of July 18th we covered that work can be just as enjoyable usual. were blessed as we took part in a Commu­ It was our pleasure to have Leonard as play, especially since the work consisted nion service. Rev. Dave Eidse spoke to us Barkman, Amanda Barkman, and Elma of painting picnic tables at the Kleefeld Park. from Philippians 2; 1-18. We were reminded And do you know of any better way to Wiebe with us for our Christian Endeavor of Christ’s attitude of self-emptying service, Program, July I Ith. Amanda and Elma gave satisfy a young teen's hunger pangs than by sympathy, submissivcncss and sacrifice; then a report in slides on their visit to Elmer and having a wiener roast? This they did. exorting us to yield our lives a holy sacrifice Our third group, the Young People, went Tina Barkman in Venezuela. Mr. Barkman to God. to Lake Bronson, Minnisota for the week­ in his message pointed out some end, accompanied by Brian and Elvira qualifications of a soldier of Jesus Christ. July 18th our visiting speaker was Mr. Schclicnbcrg and Rev. Ed Friesen. MISSIONARIES After the devotional led by Rev. Ed, en­ Koop from Kola. Being a teacher he por­ REPORT titled “True Discipleship,” they sang and trayed to us in a new and interesting way the meaning of faith. Portage: John and Joyce Dyck and famishared around the campfire, The Ladies Aid met at the home of INext day swimming, games and ly came home from Germany and spent Sun1' ' , after ''' . Margaret Plett on July 13th. A bridal shower day July 25th with us at the Portage church, relays, they had a Variety Program conAt the morning service a full church greeted sisting of skits and more devotional where was planned for the 18th in honor of Marilyn them and John spoke to us on Christian topics such as Terms of Discipleship, Neufeld whose marriage to Richard growth. During summer vacation we tend to Characteristics of Discipleship and Rewards Giesbrecht will be an event of Aug. 14th. The last Sunday in July, Peter Plett leave off our quiet time with God and he en- of Discipleship were discussed, presented the message since Mr. Toews had _________ , up , with the discipline . Since my last report Mrs. George Fast has couraged us to keep of■ been at CSSM Camp at Dauphin, all week. daily devotions. Il Timothy 3:16 tells us that gone home to be with the Lord, which is far the Bible is profitable for teaching, reproof, better! correction and training in righteousness. We PRAYER EMPHASIS need to read the Bible so we may be com­ plete and equipped for every good work. of Evangelistic Meetings from June 14th Creighton: Greetings from Creighton We gathered again for more in the even­ through 19th. Pastor Arnold Leister was Northern Fellowship Chapel! We have had a ing. After a devotional period on regaining used by God to meet the needs of people pretty full summer so far and it is not un­ our spiritual power and joy, we heard three both visibly and the secret needs of the heart. short reports on their life in Germany. Joyce usual to say a brief “good-bye” (which, by Where the power of the Holy Spirit is pre­ spoke on the frustrations of moving and the the way, means “God be with you”) to sent, people are always healed; either various friends and then greet them again a joys of the new experiences encountered in physically or spiritually, or both! Praise the doing so. She also told us of beginning a few weeks later. Summer is holiday time for Lord for the things we can enjoy right now Kinderstunde in their home. Bernice related most people around our area. on earth while waiting for His return! June 7th through 1 Ith was a week of close experiences in spiritual growth in the past June 27th was the day set apart for our year as she attended the Black Forest fellowship as we gathered together in prayer Mary-Martha Group windup. All the ladies Academy which is a school for missionary at 10:00 each morning and again at 9:00 met at the Gateway Cafe for supper and children. John gave us an idea of the work each evening in preparation for another week

AUGUST 6, 1976

PAGE 9

fellowship and it was much enjoyed by all who attended. The ladies arc appreciated for their functions within the Church and the world. Their opportunities for praying down power for the needs of the group and the Church — anyone in need, are great and they also offer aid in monetary form, besides sup­ porting a foster child through World Vision and many other important functions. Praise God for ladies! After another year's dedicated service to the Lord, a well earned three week holiday was enjoyed by our Pastor Arnold Leister, his wife Helen and their three children, Adrian, Tracy and Warren. They left on July 7th and returned on the 29th. We trust the Lord had many blessings for them on their travels. July 12th through the 25th was a busy time for probably hundreds of adults and children as this was Beaver Lake Bible Camp. This is such a terrific time to reach children of all ages with the love of Jesus Christ. It is also a precious time of meeting new people as counsellors are brought in from out of town. It is an important time of year and should be followed up by prayer so the seed sowed will reap a great harvest! We have been blessed by the six week return of Len and Evelyn Martens and children. They lived here for a few years and just within this last year were led of God to move to Kola. Manitoba.

Seen at Braeside farewell are left to right: Peter Kroeker, chairman Missions Committee; Mrs. Carol (Joy) and Wayne Hildebrand; pastor Arnold Fast.

COUPLE LEAVES FOR PAKISTAN Winnipeg, Man.; July 25 saw a farewell service being held for Christian Service workers, Wayne and Carol (Joy) Hildebrand at the Braeside E.M.C. Church. The Hildebrands will be going to Muree Christian School, at Muree Hills, Pakistan to be dorm-parents to a group of grade 10 to 12 bofs at this school for missionary children. Wayne is a graduate of Winnipeg Bible College. Carol graduated from Grace Bible Institute, and worked for Greater Winnipeg Youth for Christ for a while. Wayne has been active in Boys Brigade at Braeside.

PAGE 10

ELISABETH (DUECK) FAST 1904 1976 Mrs. Elisabeth Fast was born to Henry R. and Katharina Dueck of Klecfeld, on February I 2, 1904 and went to be with her Lord on July 16. 1976. at the age of 72 years 5 months, and 4 days. She recognized her need of a Saviour at the age of 20 and was baptized on October 5, 1924 and became a very faithful member of the Evangelical Mennonite church of Klecfeld. of which she remained a joyful and helpful worker till her end. On May 17. 1925 she was united in marriage to me. Gerhard Fast by her father. Rev. Henry R. Dueck. The Lord blessed our home with two daughters and four sons. Life has not always been easy but peace and serenity always prevailed. Many guests have enjoyed warm hospitality in our home through the years. Whenever there were children who needed a temporary home she was ready to open her mother-heart to them. The love she so freely gave spoke of the Saviour's love, to all who have known her. A special mile stone was reached, when, last summer we were privileged to celebrate our Golden Wedding anniversary with all our family present. When I was elected as a deacon on July 24, 1948 she just continued her loving ministry to the larger church family. Many have appreciated her loving concern and un­ derstanding in their times of need. Her desire to serve was evident in many years of service which she rendered to the sewing circle. She spent long hours sewing together patchc.s for numerous quilts and enjoyed many times of fellowship during quilting bees. M. C. C. was another area of service she really enjoyed. Her's has been a rich life, yet she has known many hardships, too, especially dur­ ing the last years when she has been hospitalized many times. In 1971 during an eight month period, she underwent three major surgeries. She had her first cancer operation on April 14, 1971 and her second one on February 13, 1976. Since this last one she did not recuperate as rapidly as she had hoped, but was very tired and grew con­ tinuously weaker. She was again hospitalized on May I I in St. Boniface where she receiv­ ed cobolt treatments during three weeks. From here she was allowed to go home for three days and was then taken to Steinbach where she remained for six weeks, until her death on Friday, July 16th. She is now re­ joicing in the presence of her Lord and Saviour and loved ones who have gone before. She leaves to mourn, me. her husband, two daughters and sons in-law, Leona and Ernie Reimer of Fort St. John, B. C. and Grace and Clarence Klicwcr, of Long Beach, California, and four sons and daughter-inlaw, Harold and Nettie of KIccfcId, Milton and Gladys of Swift Current, Sask., Henry and Helen of Steinbach and Vernon and

Edith of Klecfeld; 17 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild; four sisters - Katherine, Mrs. P. L. Penner of Steinbach, Anna, Mrs. Abe Friesen of Janzen, Neb., Margaret, Mrs. Martin Dueck of Klecfeld, Nettie, Mrs. Pete Peters of Klecfeld; and three brother, Heinrich Dueck of Steinbach, Dr. John R. Dick of Kelowna. B. C. and Peter Dueck of KIccfcId. Mrs. Fast was predeceased by two grandchildren. Ronald in infancy, and Margarete Elizabeth on May 26, 1972; three sisters, Helen in 1947, Aganctha in 1906 and Maria in 1975; two brothers, Jacob in 1930 and Abram in 1967. We do miss her very much, but we look forward to a happy reu­ nion soon, where, a.s was her fervent prayer, her whole family will be present. "O taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man that trustheth in Him". Psalm 34:8 "Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord." Psalm 31:24. George Fast and family

COME TO BIBLE SCHOOL

Have you finalized your plans for the next school year? Then con­ sider going to Bible School.

Have you been putting off going to Bible School? Then put it off no longer. Plan to come to the Stein­ bach Bible Institute this Fall.

Join us in a deeper study of the Word, for greater clarification of your faith; for preparation to serve God.

For more information or application form Phone 326-6451 or write Steinbach Bible Institute Box 1420 Steinbach, Manitoba ROA 2A0 THE MESSENGER

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around the world ADDITION PLANNED FOR WINNIPEG MCC BUILDING WINNIPEG - The Manitoba organization of Mennonite Central Committee is planning to add a second storey to its present building at 1483 Pembina Highway which houses the offices of MCC (Canada), Conference of Mennonites in Manitoba and Mennonite Foundation of Canada as well as MCC (Manitoba). Plans are that the building addition, estimated to cost $100,000, will get underway in fall. At its June 19 meeting the MCC (Manitoba) board ap­ pointed building and finance committees. The building committee has been designated general contractor for the project. A project manager will be appointed to supervise it. The reason for the addition is to provide more space for the growing needs of the offices in the building. There is no room for any of the offices to expand at this time.

MENNONITE GROUP LOOKS AT CHURCH LEADERSHIP Winnipeg - The Mennonite churches in Canada are known for their strong tradition of lay leadership. But for one of the Canadian Mennonite groups, the 19.000 member Mennonite Brethren Church, the form that leadership should take at the local church level is not as clear-cut as it once was, if discussions at the denomination's 65th annual Canadian Convention July 3 - 6 in Winnipeg are any indication. Just over 500 delegates from 140 churches and seven provinces, including 10.3 women, attended the sessions, held in the Kildonan East Regional Secondary School. The attendance swelled to over .3,700 at morning worship services on Sunday at the Winnipeg Convention Centre. An evening ser­ vice also attracted a large crowd. A study paper on the call to the ministry by Dr. John Rcgehr of the Mennonite Brethren Bible College in Winnipeg opened up the discussion of church leadership. The Business sessions chaired by Moderator Dr. Frank C. Peters began with a welcome from Manitoba Premier Ed. Schreyer, the first time a provincial premier has addressed a Mennonite Brethren Convention. He expressed concern at the materialism evident in society, and the waste of non renewable resources. We need a reliance on faith (in God), and not just on reason, he said. EDUCATION IN ZAMBIA FOREIGN TEACHERS STILL NEEDED WINNIPEG — Foreign teachers are still desperately needed in the African country of Zambia, in spite of an increasing number of Zam­ bian teachers, says Peter Penner, who recently returned from that country after teaching there for six years under the Mennonite Central Com­ mittee Teachers Abroad Program (TAP). For instance, in the school where he taught mathematics in his second three-year term, the

AUGUST 6. 1976

department was short two math teachers when he left, leaving it with less than half its requirement. Penner, who has recently been appointed Voluntary Service co-ordinator for MCC (Manitoba) replacing Campbell Nisbet, taught first in the secondary school at Kafue, then at Chikankata, both south of Zambia's capital, Lusaka. The small land locked country in southern Africa, formerly known as Northern Rhodesia, was a British colony until 1964.

Institute held over 1,000 persons, with seven or eight hundred persons regularly involved in the daily meetings.

MISSIONARY TO ATTEND CHINA CONFERENCE Hugh Sprunger, General Conference Mennonitc missionary in Taichung, Taiwan, will represent the General Conference's Commission on Overseas Mission at the Chinese Congress on World Evangelism August 18 - 25 in Hong Kong, The conference, organized by overseas Chinese, follows two similar conferences in North NEW RELEASE America. The first radio spots of the "Invitation to Live" Mr. Sprunger. a native of Berne, Indiana, and campaign will be released in August. Represen­ his wife, Janet, have been in Taiwan since 1954. tatives of the sponsoring groups auditioned the first set on July I in Chicago and approved seven 20 and 30 second spots for public service release. MISSIONARY VISAS A second series of radio spots is planned for FROZEN IN COLOMBIA release in early 1977. The Colombian Government has put a freeze The "Invitation to Live" campaign is a multi­ on all new missionary visas pending the introduc­ media campaign designed to encourage listeners tion of new regulations, including a quota system. to reach out to others, especially those who may However, the freeze is not expected to affect feel alone or unwanted, such as the elderly, General Conference Mennonite missionaries im­ teenagers, etc. mediately, according to Hector Valencia, Radio spots arc one of several media being secretary for Latin America for the Commission utilized in the campaign. United Methodist Com­ on Overseas Mission. munications were chosen to produce the television Larry and Jane Wilson, now in language study spots to be released in January 1977. Also, plans in Costa Rica, have already received their visas. arc being made for the distribution of transit cards Ed and Linda Enns will not be ready to leave for with the help of local congregations. Two paper­ Colombia until they complete language study next back books arc now produced that support the year. campaign theme. Luciano Jaramillo, president of the Confedera­ tion of Evangelical Churches of Colombia (CEDEC), said the government has announced it GOOD INTEREST will not grant any more visas until it has brought AT CONFERENCE About five hundred delegates attended the 74th up to date all information on which missionaries Conference of Mennonites in Canada sessions arc in Colombia. The government has asked held July ,3 ■ 7 in Clearbrook, B.C. A third of this CEDEC to cooperate by collecting this informa­ total represented 41 Manitoba Mennonite con­ tion from the various missions and serving as an gregations of the Conference. Two to three hun­ intermediary between the government and the dred guests from across the country attended the missions. meetings as well. The government has said it is tired of dealing Jake Harms, pastor of the Sargent Avenue with forty or fifty religious organizations with Mennonite Church, Winnipeg, was re-elected different representatives and systems of govern­ chairman of the General Board executive, and ment that often change. numerous other persons from Manitoba help make up the three 12-membcr boards of the BOOK TELLS PALESTINIAN VIEW organization. OF MIDDLE EAST CONFLICT “THE PALESTINIANS for the most part are "It turned out to be kind of 'holding' con­ determined to die rather than to say good-bye ference. a reaffirming experience," said Jake forever to the land that was once theirs," observes Harms, who moderated the eight main business Frank H. Epp in his new Herald Press book. The meetings of the sessions. A missions program on Palestinians: Portrait of a People in Conflict. Sunday afternoon, and a communion service on (Published in Canada by McClelland and Monday night were also included in the program. Stewart.) Special youth meetings took place on each of the “The Israelis, with very few exceptions, are five days scheduled for the gathering. About 40 equally determined not to surrender an acre of the children spent the time at Camp Squeah elsewhere Palestinian area over which they have gained con trol," Epp notes. in the Fraser Valley. “Both sides are backed, perhaps equally, by the The meetings of Canadian Women in Mission military, religious and emotional energies of and the Ministers' and Deacons' Conference took humanity. The stakes are very high. The conflict place on Saturday prior to the regular sessions. in the Middle East is constantly in danger of If it was a quiet conference, there was no lack becoming not only an East-West confrontation of of interest and participation. At maximum the unprecedented magnitude, but a final round in the auditorium of the Mennonite Educational battles of the nations of all time.”

PAGE 11

1976 ANNUAL CONFERENCE ELECTIONS

John Sawatsky (Steinbach)-1977 Bernie Brandt (Blumenort)—1977

Given below are the 1976 election results as well as members still serving. Since a term is three years those with 1979 behind their name are the ones elected this year. (Unless other wise noted when a substitute fills out a term.)

Social Concerns

Conference Executive

Music Committee

John Koop (MacGregor)-1979 Ed Friesen (Kleefeld)-1978 D.P. Friesen (Treesbank)-1979 Henry Kornelsen (Ridgewood)—1978 Henry Klassen (Steinbach)-1978 Melvin Penner (Blumenort)—1977 Frank D. Reimer (Prairie Rose)—1977

MCC (Manitoba)

Willie Dueck (Morweena)-1979 Stanford Penner (Prairie Rose)—1978 Ed Loewen (Steinbach)-1977

Ben D. Reimer (Steinbach)—1979 Carl Doerksen (Blumenort)-1978 Reg Toews (Crestview)-1978 Henry Fast (Steinbach)-1977 Harold Plett (Prairie Rose)-1977

Mennonite Disaster Service

Sydney Reimer (Rosenort Fellowship)—1979 Dave P. Loewen (Blumenort)—1978 Willie B. Dueck (Morweena)—1977

John J. Doerksen (Blumenort)-1979 Abe Friesen (Portage)-1979 Harry Friesen (Mennville)-1978 Harry Neufeld (Steinbach)-1978 Alvin Brandt (Morris)-1978 Walter Plett (Steinbach)—1977 Irwin Fast (Kleefeld)-1977

Eden Mental Health Centre

Neil Wiebe (Steinbach)-1979 Frank E. Plett (Prairie Rose)-1978 Andrew Dueck (Riverton)—1977 MCC (Canada) Herb Penner (Kola)-1977

Board of Missions

Ben Friesen (Crestview)—1979 Harry Neufeld (Steinbach)—1979 Harvey Barkman (Landmark)—1979 John P. Loewen (Blumenort)—1978 George K. Rempel (Wymark)—1978 Henry P. Dyck (Steinbach)-1978 Gladwin Plett (Portage la Prairie)-1977 Henry F. Harms (Roseisle)-1977 C.B. Loewen (Morris)-1977

E.M.C. BOOK FOR BAPTISMAL INSTRUCTION CLASSES NOW OUT The book that many pastors no doubt have been waiting for is now out and ready for distribution. ' “THAT I MAY KNOW HIM” consist.s of 12 chapters including one on our heritage and one on EMC Missions.

Board of Education and Publication Harvey Plett (Landmark)—1979 Dave Thiessen (Aberdeen)—1979 Jake Knelsen (Wymark)-1979 Menno Kroeker (Rosenort)-1978 Glenn Koop (Aberdeen)—1978 Norman Bartel (Kleefeld)-1978 Ernie Loewen (Rosenort)—1977 Melvin Koop (Steinbach)-1977 Glenn Klassen (Crestview)-1977

CHAPTER HEADINGS 1. Man and Jesus Christ 2. Salvation and Assurance 3. Christian Growth 4. The Holy Spirit in the Life of the Believer 5. Characteristics of the Christian Life 6. The Ordinances 7. The Universal Church 8. God 9. Angels and Satan 10. The Second Coming of Christ 11. Evangelical Mennonite Conference Missions 12. Our Heritage

Board of Finance Ed Wiebe (Treesbank)-1979 Pete R. Wiebe (Blumenort)-1978 Ben K. Plett (Prairie Rose)—1978 Victor Friesen (Ridgewood)—1977 Herman J. Dyck (Steinbach)-1977 Steinbach Bible Institute

Allan Friesen (Mennville)—1979 Henry F. Klassen (Steinbach)-1979 Abe G. Penner (Blumenort)-1979 Jim Penner (Kola)-1979 Abe Rempel (Portage)—1978 Jake P. Friesen (Blumenort)—1978 Ed Loewen (Steinbach)-1978 Frank K. Friesen (Morris)—1977 Fred Klassen (Blumenort)-1977

Price $1.25 E.M.C. Board of Education and Publication Box 1268 Steinbach, Manitoba Phone 326 6401

Estates Committee

Henry J. Reimer (Blumenort)-1979 Ed Loewen (Steinbach)-1978 Dick Eidse (Rosenort)-1978 Harry Fast (Braeside)—1977 A.F. Penner (Prairie Rose)-1977 Youth Committee

Peter R. Friesen (Treesbank)—1978 Gordon Schellenberg (Kleefeld)—1979 Johnny Loewen (Rosenort)—1978

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THE MESSENGER

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