The Messenger April 2, 1976

The Messenger EVANGELICAL EVANGELICAL MENNONITE MENNONITE CONFERENCE CONFERENCE

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VOL. PR. 2/76 VOL. 14 14 NO. NO. 77 V^a APR. 2/76

The Cross In the Christian Experience Kingdom of God Series 2

The Cross in Christian Experience By Harold J. Ockenga

TEXT: Matthew 16:24. “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself take up his cross, and follow me." SCRIPTURE: Matthew 16:13-27

The cross is central to the Christian religion. It was transformed by Christ from a symbol of shame, ignominy and cruelty to a sym­ bol of beauty, love and worship. It is at the center of Christian architecture where the nave and the transept meet. It is at the crown of our spires. It is at the heart of the symbols of Christian worship. Clow said, "In the teaching of Jesus, in the preaching of the apostles and in the appeal of the epistles, the eclipsing topic is the cross and its redeeming sacrifice.” By the cross habits are broken, prisoners are released, broken hearts are healed, guilt is washed away, condemned consciences are justified and human nature is renewed. St. Paul taught that the cross was the source of all blessing. He declared, “God forbid that I should glory save in the cross of my Lord Jesus Christ." In his Galatian epistle the cross takes a promi­ nent place in every chapter (Galatians 1:4; 2:20; 3:13; 4:4; 5:11; 5; 6:14). Every religious movement that leaves out the redeeming cross of Christ ends like a desert river in a marsh, or in Unitarianism. There is no life in a redemptionless Christianity. Revivals are utterly impossible without it. There is never a great conversion without a soul kneeling at the cross. The great need of the world is the preaching of the cross as doctrine and as life. “We preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; but unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God” (I Cor. 1:23) There are three great messages of the cross, no more and no less. Let us examine them.

I THE MESSAGE OF SALVATION (ROM. 3:25, 26)

John Bunyan's picture of Pilgrim passing trough the wicket-gate and on up the hill toward the cross where he found that his burden was loosed and tumbling down entered into a sepulchre so as to be seen no more, is the common interpretation of the cross. It is one in­ terpretation and the major one but not the only one. A. Emphasis upon the cross as a means of salvation by Jesus One need only read the Gospels to learn that the Lord placed a great emphasis upon the inevitability of the cross (John 2:19; Matt. 16:21; 17:9; 17:22; 23; 20:18-19; 20:28). The fact of the cross

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looms large in the thinking of Jesus. The meaning of the cross was explained by Jesus (Luke 24:25, 26). He pointed out to His dis­ ciples that it was essential for Him to suffer and enter into His glory and that it behooved Him to suffer and to rise again from the dead the third day that repentance and remission of sins might be preach­ ed unto the Gentiles. The content of the apostolic gospel of the cross as an atonement and as the satisfaction made by the Lamb of God for the people of God was received from Jesus Himself. The one explanation for the unanimity of the New Tewstament writers concerning the content of the gospel is that they received it from the Lord Himself. He tarried for forty days after His resurrection, teaching them things concerning the kingdom of God. During this time He undoubtedly gave the authoritative interpretation of His incarnation. His life. His death and His resurrection. B. Exposition of this phase of Biblical truth We have see that the phrases, the cross of Christ and the death of Christ, are used synonymously in the Bible. The blood of Christ is mentioned three times as often as the death of Christ and five times as often as the cross of Christ but the content of these phrases is identical. The shedding of the blood of Christ was in atonement for our sins (Heb. 9:22). Hence, in the Old Testament all figures poin­ ting toward the death of Christ showed that the life was in the blood and the blood was given on the altar as an atonement for the soul (Lev. 17:11). For this reason Abel was accepted by God, for he came in the appointed way through a blood offering. Cain was rejected because he brought the fruit of the ground. For this reason God instituted the Passover to teach the people the necessity of an atonement of blood. For this reason the Day of Atonement was enacted every year as an object lesson to the people of Israel concerning the necessity of forgiveness through redemption. Therefore, the acceptance of redemption by the cross is a matter of life or death. We either yield evangelical obedience or we are ex­ cluded. Thus the cross has become the symbol of objective salva­ tion wrought by Christ. The foremost meaning of the cross is the removing of the guilt of our sin by redemption. The cross reconciled God by a satisfaction made in the meeting of the penalty of sin (Eph 2:14; Col. 2:14; II Cor. 5:19).

C. Experience of salvation through the cross Salvation comes by believing that my sins were imputed to Christ on the cross (1 Peter 2:24). This constitutes forensic righteousness

THE MESSENGER

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The consequence of union with Christ in death is union with Christ in resurrection iife. if we have died with Him, we aiso shaii live with Him. There follows a new beginning with new motives.

in the sight of God. It is justification by faith. It is a declarative truth and it is factual (Rom. 3:25-5:1). Once an individual is justified before the tribunal of God, the flow of regenerative life begins from his union with the Crucified One. This beginning of life for us was purchased and is received through the experience of the cross.

II THE EXPERIENCE OF SANCTIFICATION (ROM. 6:1-14)

A. The position of crucifixion with Christ It is a great truth that when a Christian is justified and born again, he is born crucified. He is joined with Christ in death by the baptism of the Holy Spirit. This is the primary teaching of Romans 6:3-6. It is an aspect of the cross which is overlooked by many Christians. Many are glad to claim forgiveness for their sins but not glad to take the position of death to sin. But it is necessary for us to accept this truth that we are dead to sin, the old man is crucified with Christ, hence dead to lust, lying, pride, selfishness, ambition, pleasure and other springs of evil. We are not only dead to the law but also to sin. Immediately the justified and regenerated Christian should manifest the attribute of holiness which is received by identification with Christ in death. This is the beginning of sanc­ tification, by identification with Christ’s cross. B. The power of deliverance by the cross

The consequence of union with Christ in death is union with Christ in resurrection life. If we have died with Him, we also shall live with Him. There follows a new beginning with new motives, new desires, new thoughts and new purposes. “If we be dead with Christ, we believe we shall also live with Him,” (Rom. 6:8). In this new life the conquest of the motions of sin occur as they attack us. Ye are “to reckon yourselves to be dead to sin,” “to let not sin reign in your mortal bodies," and to “yield your members servants to righteousness unto God.” Thus the Christian is separated by the cross from the world, the flesh and the devil. This assuming of a place of identification with Christ in death is a critical experience. It necessitates consecration, surrender and a deliberate dedication. It is not done in a moment. C. The place of the Spirit in this sanctification Once a person is crucified with Christ, or united with Him in death, the glorified Christ releases in his life the work of the Holy Spirit. Thus, on Pentecost Peter could declare “Who being by the right hand of God exalted, hath shed forth this which ye now see and hear.” The crucified and glorified Christ gives unto the crucified believer the Holy Spirit so that he can reverse the condi­ tion of life from one of defeat to one of victory. This is all through the Spirit. Whereas in Romans, chapter 7, the personal pronoun I, me or my is mentioned forty-eight times, in chapter 8 of

Romans it is not used at all but instead the Holy Spirit is mentioned nineteen times. This indwelling Holy Spirit renews the life of the believer by fulfilling the law in him, by making him spiritualy mind­ ed, by quickening his body, by guiding him in the truth, by assuring him of his salvation, and by helping him with his infirmities.

Ill THE EXPERIENCE OF SERVICE TROUGH THE CROSS (ROM. 12:1-2) A. The principle of service The principle of service is involved in the cross and is often stated by Jesus. He declared that we are to deny ourselves, to sacrifice and to serve if we become Christians (Matt. 16:24; John 12:24; Matt 20:28). The surrender of self to this principle is the greatest obstacle to our sanctification, our spiritual attainment in love, our exercise of power and our manifestation of holiness. Unless we are willing to dedicate self and take the place of crucifixion and to enjoy new life in Jesus Christ, we cannot render such service. But the scene of contemporary life demands redemptive living and if we are to have any effect upon our age through missions, evangelism or social service, it must be through adopting this principle.

B. The pattern is Christ Himself Christ set the pattern for such action in saying, “Follow Me,” We examine His life of teaching, of healing, of doing good and of ministering until He was so exhausted by the strain that He could sleep in the midst of a storm, and we realize that we do not follow Him, He sealed His teaching of the truth by laying down His life upon the cross. He suffered at the very hands of those whom He served the most. When He was reviled. He reviled not again, but He bare in His body our sins on the tree. C. The practise expected of a Christian Christians are to be imitators, followers of Jesus. Our highest objective is to be conformed to His image. Anything less than such a standard is sin. What Jesus did He wants us to do. We have a loss of religious motivation and power when we leave all of this imita­ tion of Christ to the modernist. This is an error of too many evangelicals. They are willing to take the forensic aspect of the cross but not the sanctified or the service aspects of the cross. Whether we like it or not, we as Christians must be identified with Christ’s cross.

CONCLUSION It would seem that if one has the illumination concerning the se­ cond and third aspects of Calvary in Christian experience and refuses to apply them, that he also would reveal by this action that the forensic aspect of Calvary has never been applied to him, name­ ly, he is not forgiven.

THE MESSENGER is the publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. Its purpose is to inform, instruct, and inspire. Inform as to what is going on in the Conference; Instruct in Godliness and victorious living; Inspire to earnestly contend for the faith. All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor D. K. Schellenberg, Box 1268, Steinbach, Manitoba, ROA 2A0. Letters, articles, art and poetry are welcomed. Views expressed in Letters to the Editor are not necessarily those of the editor nor of the paper. Unpublished articles are not returned except by request. Subscription: Members pay through their church. Non-members pay $1.00 per year. Send subscription money to The Messenger, Box 1268, Steinbach, Manitoba ROA 2A0. 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.

APRIL 2. 1976

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KINGDOM OF GOD SERIES 2

The Nature of the Kingdom by Levi Keidel Scripture teaches it, and the human situation increasingly con­ firms it; the Kingdom of God offers the only hope to a world floundering in compounding crises and edging toward self­ annihilation. Human history will terminate in an apocalyptic Day of the Lord when the ruling powers of evil will finally be destroyed, the created universe will find its complete restoration in Christ, and God will take His seat again as lord of His universe. The beginning of that universal end-time kingdom are already present among us, wherever men have renounced the rule of sin, and have bowed their knees to the lordship of Christ. We who have surrendered ourselves to Him are trustees of the kingdom, indebted to extending it among our fellow men. These facts were so primary in the thinking of Jesus, that He designed 18 of His 33 recorded parables to teach us about the nature of the Kingdom of God. In this article we deal with four predominant truths. / Its Separation ‘IVlieal and Tares: Matt. 13:24-30; 36-43) Jesus said that He would sow good seed in the field; but the devil would sow among it tares. Each would produce its progeny. They would exist side by side until “harvest time” at the end of the age, when God would separate them, destroying the evil, and rewarding the righteous. Why must the progeny of God and the progeny of the devil stay separated to the end of time? Why can’t they inter-breed and produce a compromise hybid? Why doesn’t one gradually over­ come the other? Because they are radically different, and diametrically opposed the one against the other. They can never mix. They can never strike a compromise. This is strange language in our relativistic day when we all seek to settle ourselves amicably in a warm communal bosom of comfor­ table gray. Such was not the case with Jesus. He acknowledged that Satan has authority over earth’s temporal kingdoms, and refused to share in it. (Mat. 4:8-10) When on trial. He told Pilate, “My kingdom is not of this world; if my kingdom were of this world, then my servants would fight.” (Jn. 18:36) The sharp distinction between these two kingdoms is underlined in His words to Paul, “I’ve appeared to you to appoint you a witness to the Gentiles, to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light, and from the dominion of Satan to God...” (Acts 28:18) Our 16th century forbears were mercilesly persecuted by “the dominion of Satan”; they had a sharp-honed perception of the separation of the two kingdoms. “All creatures are in but one of two classes,” they wrote: “good and bad; believer and unbeliver; darkness and light; the world and those who have come out of the world; God’s temple and idols; Christ and Belial; and none can have part with the other.”' Make no mistake about it. These two kingdoms are separate en­ tities, and the conflict between them is sharp. I’ve seen it in Zaire:

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where a witch doctor used miraculous power to dupe a small boy into an effort to kill his Christian parents; where a maker of ancestral medicines exhausted his resources in effort to kill an evangelist. With a bit of scrutiny, we can also find it close to home. As the time of harvest approaches, the wheat and tares will harden more firmly in their separate identities. Increasingly, evil and good will become separately polarized. We may be seeing something of it today with, on the one hand, growth of Satan Worship, blackmail by international terrorism, and sexual liber­ tinism; and on the other hand, spontaneous exciting outbreaks of the Holy Spirit’s power at separate points around the world. As “harvest time" approaches, polarization could in all probability spawn growing conflict and persecution. //. Ils Permeation (Mustard Seed, and Leaven: Mat. 13:31-33) The mustard tree starts as a tiny seed; but eventually birds haphazardly build their nests in it. The leaven quietly transforms the entire structure of the loaf, which becomes man’s “Daily bread". Thus the Kingdom of God is starting as a tiny insignificant thing, but will so extend its outreach and permeate society that mankind will rely upon it and benefit from it without even recogniz­ ing its presence. Jesus Christ lived and died without a single Roman historian tak­ ing notice of His existence; an itinerant teacher in a tiny detested Roman colony who never wrote a book, who never traveled more than 160 miles from home, who ministered only three years and died as a criminal. Of the 12 He taught, one committed suicide, another swore he never knew Him, and the rest deserted Him. Thus was the inauspicious beginning of the Kindom of God. But from the vantage point of today, who can estimate the benefits brought to mankind by that “itinterant teacher” and His followers? How many hospitals schools, and institutions of benevolence have been built in His name? How many lives have they saved and blessed? How many persons have been rescued from the ruin of debauchery, inpurity, and bondage to all kinds of sin? What have societies been spared by the moral and ethical in­ fluences of Christians living in them? The effects of Christianity have thoroughly permeated our culture. Many of our great literary classics rest solidly on Biblical foundations. “The Christian influence on the West is said to be so decisive that without it. Western history could not be explained and the Western world could not exist as a cultural bloc with common basic elements.”^ Philosopher Karl Jaspers, responding to the ques­ tion of whether Europe would be, without the Bible, wrote, “Without the Bible we fall into nothing.”^ To illustrate, from the maelstrom of political and religious currents swirling about them the Anabaptists selected, defended, and died for such things as liberty of human conscience, freedom of religion, and separation of Church and State concepts which even­ tually were made foundation stones of western democracies (and of the American Constitution)... a debt to “Reformation heretics” which German scholar Lezius said has never been paid. This permeating action of the Kingdom is cosmic and perpetual. While its over-all influence is on the decline in the “post-Christian West, it is permeating third-world societies with increasing momen­ tum, so that their peoples too may benefit from it, acknowledge the goodness of God, and have opportunity to surrender to His lordship So the mustard tree continues to grow; birds build their nests and enjoy them oblivious to the origin of the limbs which support them. The leaven does its work; men eagerly consume the full-grown loaf, ignoring the important force which created its structure. Ill Ils Realization (Sower: Mat. 13:3-9; 18-23) The Jews of Jesus’ day longed for deliverance from the oppres­ sion of Rome. Their yearning was fired by the promise of their continued on page 8

THE MESSENGER

from the editor BY THE WAY After travelling some 5000 miles (California and back) without mishaps it was quite humiliating to get stuck in a snowbank off our driveway when I went back to work the morning after we came home. Nevertheless I figured if I worked fast 1 might be able to get off the ridge before too many people caught me in this situation. But no such luck. The car wouldn't cooperate. I was stuck and to which fact I had to get reconciled. Very kind neighbors came to my assistance, but it took another car and a tow rope to get me free. But on the more serious side, my wife and I cannot help but praise and thank God for a very meaningful, enjoyable and educational two weeks. Especially is one aware of friends in need, being friends indeed. To receive such a cordial welcome away from home is precious. It makes a trip so much more meaningful. Our Mercury Comet was also quite cooperative. No major breakdown. Since our Torino had had a perpetual squeak, I was not loo perturbed when after about a day's drive or so this one began to dcvciopc the same characteristics. Not so friend wife. And the con­ versation went something like this.

“What’s that squeak?” Silence "You should look at it” "Huh." "Maybe a wheel will fall off!" I knew there was very little I could do about it so I shrugged it off. But I could have known better. "You should look under the hood.” "Oh”. Then came the crowning explanation. “Maybe its your golf clubs!" Now to me that bordered on the ridiculous. How could my golf clubs in the trunk cause a squeak in the vicinity of the left front wheel. Eventually I of course gave in and I looked under the hood, as she had suggested, took the dip-stick and tried to administer a few drops of oil to the shining part of a shock absorber which was visible. The amazing thing was that it seemed to help for a while. Leaving the lighter vein and going on to the more serious I am reminded of daughter-in-law Diana's question after we came home, "What arc the highpoints of your trip." Among them would certainly be the cordial welcome by friends along the way, as already mentioned. To experience friends in a strange place is indeed very precious. I want to again determine that this is to be reciprocal on my part to strangers within my gates. It is something which must be constantly practised. Maybe with this in mind I stopped the car for a lady in distress whose car had stalled in the mountains just out of Butte Montana. I was Icary about pushing her car, as she requested, because the bumpers did not fit. I was scared to pull her because I had no way of knowing what the old heap would do to me if it did start (an automatic). I felt the least I could do was to attempt booster cables. When it refused to do more than a feeble click 1 gave this up and offered her a ride to Butte. This she was reluctant to accept for fear someone would strip (!) her car, I found this hard to believe because to my sight there was not much of value left in this auto. As I got back into our car and drove away I must say I was a lit­ tle bit at odds with myself. Obviously my well meant chivalry had fallen flat. Maybe I should have gone the third mile and pushed her. Secondly the sight of the Pacific ocean filled me with awe. To see those breakers rolling in all the way from Japan, well that is another thing. Secretly I had hoped I would be able to at least swim in the ocean once. This was denied me because it was far too cold and no

APRIL 2, 1976

one was in the water. Nevertheless I was not to be daunted that easily. I figured the next best thing would be to at least get my feet wet. I Ciin now say that I have planted my feet in the Pacific. No doubt it is not hard for anyone to guess how I did it. I only know that my passengers were quite concerned that I would put my shoes and socks back on before going into the restaurant where we went after this. By the way, the waters of the Pacific really are salty. Another one of God's wonders one can see are the giant Sequoa's (Redwoods) of California. To think that some of these trees may have been growing when David, the sweet singer of Israel was tending his father's sheep on the hillsides of Judea, boggles the im­ agination, Nevertheless some of these giants may be as old as 30(X) years. Many of the big trees have names. One of these, the General Sherman, is said to be the biggest living thing on earth. This tree stands in the Kings Canyon National park. If my pictures have turned out I may be able to show it to you or part of it some time on the cover of the MESSENGER. Another thing for which we were thankful was that on each Sun­ day we were able to fellowship in some church along the way. Twice this happened with people related to us, once in a strange town. But to think that we could drive into a strange place and minutes before starting time find a church where God was honored is something for the record. How well our land is Christianized one sometimes wonders, but to find a town, place or village in North America without a church, seems to me very rare. This impressed me. I hope this will be to our credit some day. I did wonder though, on one of the churches we visited, what the pastor would speak on when he anounced his message. “The Cave of the Tiger.” Seeing as he had not expected to preach that Sun day, and seeing that (as he said) he usually had his messages all written out by Thursday morning, he did quite well on such short notice. The parallel he drew was that we should feel the same awe and fear and reverence before God that we would sense in a dark cave with a tiger. I thought that maybe he had a point there. I realize that some of my better travelled readers may just be a little bit amused by some of my observations. And I know that I take a risk when I say that picking an orange off a tree and eating it was a highpoint. Yet to be honest I must say it was. To see this golden fruit lying under the trees in numbers, was something hard to get used to, as was also to see them loaded like potatoes in big trucks on the way to market. Mountain.s always inspire awe in me. My wife and I had been in the mountains in Switzerland but this was still different. They were not higher, or more majestic, but there are so terribly many of them. Taking the northern route home I was under the delusion that we would go over the mountains, the summit, and then more or less coast down the eastern slope. I could not have been more wrong! After about two days driving I finally said to my wife, “I think there will be mountains ail the way to Steinbach!” Pass after pass, divide after divide, and always beyond the next curve, — more. However, reluctantly is seemed, we finally got out of them. I had to admit that for prairie dwellers you can get too much of a good thing, much as I admire these majestic ranges. Looking at the pages I have typed 1 realize that space is fast run­ ning out. On the other hand this was not a business trip and why should I write about our holidays! Who cares? Well, for better or worse, you have read this far and thanks for staying with me. At least I have relived some of our experiences. O yes. some of you may wonder about those golf clubs? I did get to use them a few times. —D.K.S.

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1.

missions

Part of the group that attended the seminar at ZP-30 recently.

Seminar for ZP-30 Personnel and Associate Workers A very I'nscinnting. and valuable seminar for radio operaters. announeers. news­ reporters. radio journalists, and program­ producers was olTercd in Filadelfia I'rom February to l.tth by three profcssor.s from the ASSOCIATION OF RADIO OPERATERS AND ANNOUNCERS OF PARAGUAY (ALORPA). in which fortythree persons from the three Chaco Colonies participated. The purpose and essence of the seminar.

was. in the first place, informative. We were brought up to date on government regulations and requirements for national broadcasting stations. ZP—,30. was given high recognition as being a “unique cultural sttition". In addition, the courses offered a wealth of information, both in theory and practice, in every field related to radio broad­ casting (except in the technical). From the forty three participant.s we now have a wider selection from which to fill the personnel-

Pedro Molinier, Frank Kroeker, Nicolas Casola, Girilo Zayas at the ZP-30 Seminar at Filadelphia, Paraguay.

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needs of the station. The majority of the class will receive a diploma for taking part in the seminar. Furthermore, the purpose of the seminar was to surface "local potential" for a "local job". The professers were very favourably impressed with the high academical standing of the participants, as well as with the enthusiasm and the eager and regular attend­ ance at classes in spite of the heavy rains and very muddy rotids. They were simply amaz­ ed and indicated that this was the best seminar held, outside of Asuncion. Moreover. ANTELCO (the Government Department of Communications) will now recognize those holding a diploma and will issue ollicitti licenses to operaters and an­ nouncers who will actually be employed by the station. It is a legal requirement that those Filling such positions be licensed. So far the Department has been very tolerant with us in this respect. As a result of the seminar we can expect enough local Christians to get their license, which is very encouraging. The seminar itself was in fact unavoidable (and its costs as well), yet, we believe it all to be to the benifit of Radio ZP- 30 and the carrying out of our ultimate purpose. Then also, it is almost incredible, that already at this early state. RADIO ZP-30. THE VOICE OF THE PARAGUAYAN CHACO, in the eyes of the Authorities, is rated as the highest ideal of modern technical installations in the country — is recognized its a testimony of the Mennonite community and highly respected for its contribution to the spiritual and cultural development of the indigenous and nationals. It is certainly our prayer that this will always be true — more, in practice, than in words of Praise. May the Lord always keep us humble — and at the same time proud in that we are called to pre­ sent Flint and His Word to hungry listeners! In conclusion, we can say that the seminar wtis a success in that: I) it satisfied the legal requirements, and 2) as was stated earlier, it surfaced local potential for the local job. However, being a "unique cultural station", or. as we term it. "a gospel radio station", having a deep concern to maintain a pure Christian testimony, and an underlying pur­ pose to evangelize, and to raise the spiritual standard.s of the evangelized, we are respon­ sible to select and to further train our staff to meet our "ideal" (or prerequisites). This is a great responsibility, and we do rely on your continued, fervent prayer support! -I-rank P. Kroeker

THE MESSENGER

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MISSIONS SUPPLEMENT

April 2,1976

Presented by the EMC Board of Missions

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE “Let us not allow slackness to spoil our work and let us keep the fires of the spirit burning, as we do our work for the Lord." Rom. 12:11 (Philips) This is no time to let off in missions. The enemies of worldliness, Inflation and a general ungodliness among men seem to be taking giant-like strides to overwhelm the church. It seems that these things are having an adverse effect on the church of Jesus Christ. Therefore we must keep the fires of the Holy Spirit burning through renewal revival, repentance and a general drawing nigh to God, because greater is He that is in us then)he that is in them. Our entire Conference has the call to work for Christ in missions. We do not pray, or give, or go, we must all pray and give and go. When we pray and give, to send sub­ stitutes (to use an old concept) we are not really fulfilling our Lord’s command. Surely you have a mission field where God has placed you to lip and live Jesus Christ in. When we substitute giving and praying for going (witness­ ing by lip and life) very soon our giving and praying will slack off too. One is conditioned by the other. God has given us as a Conference tremendous potential in terms of willing givers and goers. Without these re­

sources this could not happen. But with these resources He has also given us great challenges. When I visited Latin America last fall, I was impressed again and again with the tremendous need for workers. We will not go to them as authoritative white men who have all the answers, but as brothers with our Latin American brothers to build the church of our Lord. In the last year two new projects have been initiated. An evangelism and church planting ministry in Germany, and a mission reporting radio program, called Focus on Missions” in southern Manitoba. We thank God for what is happening. May I as chairman express our sincere appreciation to all the churches who have stood with us as Board this past year in all three phases of our work, praying, giving, going. As we look ahead, we will need more and more mission recruits. May the young people whom God has given us catch the vision and go. Let us continue to carry on. not slacken at this time, but pushing evermore to the regions at home and abroad.

Ben Friesen

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY REPORT A phrase of a song has impressed itself upon me of late, namely, ‘God is Still On The Throne’. What a comforting, reassuring fact when one thinks of the turmoil our world is in. With our confidence in a omnipotent, omniscient and omnipresent God we can face the future in an increasingly hostile world. Looking back, we have much reason to be encouraged. The Lord has enabled us to move forward and expand in our missions’ outreach. You will read about the projects in other parts of these pages. All this is made possible through the willingness of God’s people to pray and to share. As usual, we would like to have seen more people apply for service, more people move out to join the ranks of those faithfully serving on various fields. But we are indeed grateful for the goodly number who did. Over a hundred dedicated people serving in 21 coun­ tries. What a trust God has given to us as E.M. Conference! To send forth and maintain such a number of workers takes many more dedicated people at home. Let us not forget that we are in this all together.

What do we see for 1976? New challenges and oppor­ tunities. To meet these new challenges will require new dedication on the part of all of us. It will mean INVOLVEMENT. God looks for total-involvement, not token involvement. If we are going to enter new doors through expansion, this is what it will take. — John K. Reimer

1975 WORKER STATISTICS Christian Career Service Summer Applications Accepted Re-appointments New Workers to Fields Furlough Arrivals Christian Service Terms Completed Workers at end of 1975

7

Total

5 13

8 4

4 12

4

8 12

23

23

23

114

91

20 17

Some Urgent Personnel Needs: Canada — Pastors for mission churches Personnel for pioneer work

Mexico — Couple for work among Mennonites WorkeYfor evangelism/church planting Interior Worker for evangelism/church planting Border Teacher for Missionary children Summer Workers Nicaragua — Worker for evangelism/church planting Worker for TEE ministry Worker for Book ministry Nurse for Mobile clinic

Paraguay — Pastor for Mennonite Church Worker for evangelism/church planting Nurse for La Esperanza clinic Germany — Summer Workers

EMC BOARD OF MISSIONS MEMBERS John P. Loewen, Box 144, R. R. 1, Steinbach, Man. ROA 2A0 George K. Rempel, Box 5, McMahon, Sask. SON IMO Henry P. Dyck, Box 1706, Steinbach, Man. ROA 2A0 Gladwin Plett, S.S. 1, Site 3, Box 17, Portage la Prairie, Man. RIN 3A6 Henry F. Harms. Roseisle, Man. ROG IVO C. B. Loewen, Box 106, R.R. 1, Morris Man. ROG 1K0 Ben Friesen, 54 Bellivista Cresc., Winnipeg, Man. R2Y 1A8 Bill Friesen, Box 102, R.R. 1, Morris, Man. ROG 1K0 Edwin Plett, Box 80, R.R. 1, St. Anne, Man. ROA 1R0

TUNE IN . . . . . And hear FOCUS ON MISSIONS on Thursday evenings 9:30

CHSM — Steinbach — 1250 CFAM — Altona — 950

CJRB — Boisevein — 1220

MISSIONARY ROSTER

CANADA Mr and Mrs Frank Braun, Box 377, KAMSACK, Sask., SOA ISO Mr and Mrs Dave Dueck, 100 Pennsburg Way, S.E. CALGARY, Alberta T2A 2J4 Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Hamm, Box 385, LA CRETE, Alberta TOH 2H0 Mr. Harvey Kroeker, Box 13, HUDSON BAY, Sask. SOE OYO Mr. and Mrs. Ben D. Reimer, Box 2139, STEINBACH, Man. ROA 2A0 Mr. and Mrs. Dan Thiessen, Box 452, PELLY, Sask. SOA ISO Internship Mr. Larry Heppner, Box 377, KAMSACK, Sask. SOA ISO Mr. Dave Wiebe, Box 772, VANDERHOOF, B.C. VOJ 3A0 Leave of Absence Mr. and Mrs. Cornelius F. Dueck Box 174, ROSENORT, Man. ROG 1W0 Mr. and Mrs. Harry Friesen, Box 145, RIVERTON, Man. ROC 2R0

NICARAGUA Career Missionaries Mr. and Mrs. Wilbert Friesen, Aptdo. 43, JINOTEPE, Carazo, Nicaragua, C.A. Miss Irma Heppner, Aptdo. 3163, MANAGUA, Nicaragua, C.A. Mr. and Mrs. Lester Olfert, Aptdo. 3163, MANAGUA, Nicaragua, C.A.

Short Term Workers Miss Doris Friesen, Aptdo. 3163, MANAGUA, Nicaragua, C.A. Mr. and Mrs. John L. Reimer, (Language School) Box 840, EDINBURG, Texas 78539

MEXICO Career Missionaries Mr. and Mrs. Edmar Fast, 4409 Memphis Ave. EL PASO, Texas 79903 U.S.A. (New address effective June 1976 — 3604 McConnell Ave. El Paso Texas) Mr. and Mrs. Edward Friesen, Sue. "C”, Apdo. 1580 Cd. Chihuahua, Mexico Miss Maria Koop, Sue. “C”, Apdo. 1580 Cd. Chihuahua, Mexico ♦Mr. and Mrs. Jake Kroeker, Box 17, R. R. 1, MORRIS, Man. ROG 1K0 Mr. and Mrs. Abe Plett, Apdo, 8, El Terrero, Namiquipa, CHIHUAHUA, Mexico Miss Dora Thiessen, 4109 Snowflake, EL PASO, Texas 79904, U.S.A. Miss Catherine Thiessen, Sue. “C" Apdo 1580, Cd., CHIHUAHUA, Mexico Miss Dora Friesen, 4109 Snowflake, EL PASO, Texas 79904, U.S.A. Miss Irene Kroeker (Language School) Box 840, EDINBURG, Texas 78539 Short Term Workers Mr. and Mrs. Larry Dueck (Under appointment) Box 99, SEXSMITH, Alberta TOH 3C0 PARAGUAY Career Missionaries Miss Betty Friesen, c.d.c. 166 (Tres Palmas) ASUNCION, Paraguay, S.A. Mr. and Mrs. Peter K. Friesen, c.d.c. 166 (Tres Palmas) ASUNCION, Paraguay, S.A. Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Funk, c.d.c. 166 (Tres Palmas) ASUNCION, Paraguay S.A Mr. and Mrs. Jasch Giesbrecht, c.d.c. 883, Loma Plata, ASUNCION, Paraguay, S.A. Mr. and Mrs. Frank Kroeker, c.d.c. 984, FILEDELPHIA Paraguay, S.A. Mr. and Mrs. Diedrich Lepp, c.d.c. 984, (La Esperanza) ASUNCION, Paraguay, S.A. ♦Miss Sara Loeppky, Box 1921, STEINBACH, Man. ROA 2A0 Miss Sarah Martens, c.d.c. 166 (Tres Palmas), ASUNCION, Paragury, S.A. Mr. and Mrs. Walter Reimer, c.d.c. 166 (Tres Palmas), ASUNCION, Paraguay, S.A. Mr. and Mrs. Dave Schmidt, c.d.c. 166 (Tres Palmas), ASUNCION, Paraguay, S.A.

Short Term Workers Miss Tina Barkman, c.d.c. 984 (La Esperanza) ASUNCION, Paraguay, S.A. Miss Mary Loewen, c.d.c. 984, FILADELPHIA, Paraguay, S.A. Miss Linda Penner, c.d.c. 984, (La Esperanza) ASUNCION, Paraguay, S.A.

‘‘f

GERMANY Career Missionaries Mr. and Mrs. Levi Reimer, 3371 Seesen — Herrhausen, Nettebergstr. 1. Germany

1975 PROJECTS The following are major projects that were either commenced or com­ pleted in 1975:

...

«

ASSOCIATE MISSIONS Career Missionaries Miss Evelyn Barkman (GMU) Mission Protestante Tiefala par Bougouni, Rep. du Mali Miss Mary Brandt (FEM) 3353 Bad Gandersheim, Postfach 113, Germany Miss Ellen Brell (TEAM) Murree Christian School, P.O. Jhiki Gali, Murree Hills, West Pakistan Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Doerksen (JEM home office) Box 640, THREE HILLS, Alberta, TOM 2A0 Mr. and Mrs. John Dyck (JT) 7842 Kandern 5, Kirchbergstr, Germany Mr. and Mrs. Ben Eidse (AIMM) Kamayala, Kahemba Par Kikwit, ZAIRE, Africa Miss Agnes Friesen (CSSM) SWAN LAKE, Manitoba, ROG 2S0 *Miss Alvira Friesen (GMU) Box 700, MORRIS, Manitoba, ROG 1K0 Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Herrod (AIM) c/o AIC Lokichogio, Box 21028, Nairobi, Kenya Mr. and Mrs. Stan Houghton (GMU) Casilla 11, Riobamba, Ecuador S.A. Miss Elizabeth Koop (NTM) Caiza Postal 35, 78980 Guajara Mirim, Territory Federal de Rondonia, Brazil Miss Mary Koop (NTM) 163 Minamikawa, Hanno Shi, Saitama kan, Japan Mr. and Mrs. Dan Koop (JEM home office) Box 640, THREE HILLS, Alberta, TOM 2A0 ♦Miss Helen Kornelsen (GMU) R.R. 1, STEINBACH, Man. ROA 2A0 Mr. and Mrs. Rodney Kroeker (NTM) New Tribes Mission, Roooty Hill Rd. N.S.W. 2761 Australia Mr. and Mrs. Ken Loewen (WBT) Summer Institute of Linguistics, P.O. Box 54 Jayapura, Irian, Jaya, Indonesia Mr. and Mrs. Larry McNeill (GMU) Warsala Par Fana, Mali Republic, West Africa Mr. and Mrs. John Peters (JT) Wilhelmsweg 18, 785 Loerrach/Baden Germany Miss Evelyn Plett (BCM) Bloques Zafer, La Albuera, Portal 11, bajo 1, Buzon 4, Segovia, Spain Miss Phyllis Penner (WEC) Box 301, R.R. 1 STEINBACH, Man. ROA 2A0 (Under appointment to Venezuela, S.A.) ♦Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Reimer (GMU) Box 171, STEINBACH, Man. ROA 2A0 Mrs. Susan Reimer (JEM) Box 375, STEINBACH, Man. ROA 2A0 (Under appointment to Brazil) Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Thiessen (JT) Caiza Postal 80, Gramado R.G.S. Brazil Mr. and Mrs. Ben Thiessen (GMU) Box ^90, Belize City, Belize, C.A.

Short Term Workers Mr. and Mrs. Len Barkman (GMU) c/o Windermere High School, Governor’s Harbour, Eieuthera, Bahamas Miss Annie Brandt (CSSM) Box 1062, GiMLi, Manitoba ROC 1B0 Mr. and Mrs. Peter Dueck (FEM) 3353 Bad Gandersheim, Postfach 113 Germany Miss Sara Koop (NTM) Caixa 221, Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil Miss Katherine Penner (GMU) Box 290, Belize City, Belize, C.A. Mr. and Mrs. Ron Penner (JT) Janz Team, D-785 Loerrach, Postfach, 1710, Germany Mr. Harvey K. Plett (GMU) c/0 Windermere High School, Governor's Harbour, Eleuthra, Bahamas Miss Grace Thiessen (WBT) Casilla 64, Riberalta, Beni, Bolivia Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Warkentin (SIM)c/o Sudan Interior Mission, Jos. B.P. State, Nigeria Miss Lillie Penner (JT) Janz Team, Haus Bad Riedlingen, 7824 KANDERN 4, Germany

* Missionaries on furlough

Nicargua Clinic Building

Medical Clinic in Nicaragua Miss Doris Friesen, RN, went to Nicaragua in fall of 1974 to open a medical work. During the first few months she spent time observing and working with medical clinics operated by another missions organization. This was a valuable experience in ad­ justing to a different culture and in preparing for the responsibility of opening a new work. In January of 1975 a special vehicle which had been donated to the Board of Missions was driven to Nicaragua. This opened the door for Doris to travel to some of the needy places in Nicaragua. There are towns and villages with very limited medical facilities. In June Irma Heppner joined Doris in this important ministry. The clinic not only meets physical needs but it is a means of meeting the spiritual needs.

Germany Mission

Chapel Building

In August of 1975 the Levi Reimers returned to Germany under the auspices of the EMC Board of Missions. They were given the

Continued next page

Chaco Radio AUDITED FINANCIAL REPORT for the period January 1, 1975 to December 31, 1975

Fields Canada Mexico Nicaragua Paraguay Germany Short Term Service Associate Missions Administration Employees Benefits Missions Publications Radio Other Disbursements ISB Building Project Contingent Reserve Fund Paraguay Vehicle Medical Fund Chaco Operations Mission Car Expense Total

Budget 56,600.00 36,000.00 22,000.00 53,500.00 10,000.00 43,300.00 81,000.00 24,000.00 3,200.00 700.00 18,900.00

Disbursements 49,982.58 37,028.55 20,744.02 51,624.79 2,749.00 39,279.42 71,604.05 21,907.73 3,883.69 330.03 10,617.76

$349,200.00

1,400.00 4,000.00 5,000.00 1,000.00 400.00 152.00 $321,703.62

Actual Receipts on Budget Actual Disbursements on Budget Excess transferred to 1976 Budget

$359,887.67 321,703.62 $38,184.05

DESIGNATED DISBURSEMENTS

La Esperanza projects Missionary Children Education Chaco Radio prject Nicaragua field projects Nicaragua Clinic Paraguay projects Paraguay Typewriter and Duplicator Paraguay 2-Way Radio Paraguay Bookstore Germany Duplicator Project Passages Missionary Vehicles Vehicle Loan Fund Mexico TEE program Gimli Utilities Bookstore, Literature, Bible Correspondence

1,280.00 906.36 810.88 2,412.85 1,705.45 527.53 1,180.00 116.50 500.00 1,000.00 3,123.48 515.00 5,500.00 500.00

Total Project Disbursements Extra Missionary Support Disbursed Totai Designated Disbursements

$20,361.46 29,118.54 $49,480.00

responsibility of commencing a church planting ministry in Germany. They have located in Seeson and are busy with evangelism, visitation, children’s meetings and other ac-

113.41 70.00

tivities. Their aim is to win people to Christ and to help them to grow in the faith. The nucleus of delivers has already rented a building for Sunday School and services.

EMC BOARD OF MISSIONS BOX 1268 STEINBACH, MANITOBA ROA 2A0

ZP-30 Announcer

1975 saw the completion of Radio Chaco ZP-30. Much time had been in­ volved in planning, evaluating and constructing of this station. The Frank Kroekers returned to Paraguay in fall of 1973 with the responsibility of in­ vestigating the feasibility of construc­ ting a radio station in the Chaco of Paraguay. In fall of 1974 after evaluating various reports involving different aspects of such a project the Chaco Mennonite Colonies and the EMC decided to jointly construct and operate the 10,000 watt station. Under the capable supervision of Jack Hoeppner the construction was completed in August, 1975. By September 1 the station was broad­

casting in various languages. In

November the station was officially dedicated to the glory of God.

Focus on Missions The Board of Missions had for some time been planning on produc­ ing a radio program that would focus attention on missions by way of reports, interviews, discussion of trends in missions and opportunities. In fall of 1975 the Board appointed Henry Klassen as producer of this program. Early in 1976 the program. Focus on Missions, was being released over Radio Southern Manitoba’s network.

Growth of Mexico Church May I relate one matter that is developing, though little by little, but over the period of a number of years a long s-t-r-e t c-h. On February 5 of this year a business meeting took place in Lazaro Cardenas w'here plans for the up coming annual conference were made. Early morning the Conference Coun­ cil chairman, his wife and son and another brother from San Juan were at our place. Since they came with an elderly car with low road clearance they asked me to drive the rest of the way to Cardenas. The day was sort of windy and cool but the hearts and spirits of the believers really warmed. The congregation at Cardenas was waiting for our arrival since we were half an hour late due to some trouble on the road. (May I in­ sert that a few years ago the procedure would have been reversed. Instead of the nationals coming and getting me out of bed it would have been the other way around). The first item on the agenda was to prepare the main theme for the conference. How would they go about it? Did anyone have a suggestion? After a while someone in the benches came up with the idea that they should first look at the needs of the churches. This suggestion was accepted and the work begun. Five main needs were listed: Sunday School, family alter, church organization, church doctrine and tithing. Taking together these five items, the main theme was careful­ ly derived which reads: The Doctrine and Practices of the Evangelical Mennonite Church. Four sessions were planned for the two day conference so the main theme was CONTRIBUTORS: We have chosen our lead article in keeping with the season, Easter. The writer is Harold J. Ockenga and the message is taken from the book PROTESTANT PREACHING IN LENT., Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., used by permission. The cross may be a beautiful symbol but it is more than that. It needs to be applied to the daily life of the Christian. The Kingdom of God series by Levi Keidel continues today and the second in the series is entitled. The Nature of the Kingdom. We would encourage readers to carefully read the entire series as they are presented. I think they are well written and by an authority on the subject. Our special centrefold today comes from the EMC Board of Missions. Instead of prin­ ting and distributing the annual report in a folder type of pamphlet they decided to do it this way this year. This then is the annual

APRIL 2, 1976

divided into four sub-topics. Two sessions were dedicated for the discussion of the doc­ trine. These would be the first sessions on both days. In the afternoon sessions church organization and Sunday School would be discussed the first day and family altar and tithing on the second. (Just recently I came across a national Mennonite group who found it real difficult to identify themselves with the Mennonites and here the idea of

Mennonite doctrine and practices was a spontaneous matter coming from the nationals). The meeting was closed with a "Brooch of Gold", as one of the nationals put it. or in other words with singing, testimonies and a message of the Word of God. For the discussion of the themes three national brethren and yours truly was chosen. How the national church has grown! Only a few years ago the missionaries did all the planning and preaching and a lot of wheelbarrow driving. How the tables have turned and it is our turn to take the oc­ casional ride in the wheelbarrow with a national driver.

Belize Conference We had our annual conference on Tues­ day. March 9. 1976 and felt very happy about it -. To eliminate a risk of rain on our Conference day it was decided to move the conference day from January first to March ninth. March ninth dawned cloudy and doubtful but soon turned into a beautiful sunny day with just enough breeze for comfort. Soon after eight in the morning the buses, trucks, jeeps, mokes, etc. started gathering in the shade of a Kahoan thatch especially con structed for the day by the Pincridge church group. Mr. Hubert Cain, reverently nicknamed Brother Happy did a tremendous job of ex­ pounding the theme of "The Christian Home and Family". Having recently lost his wife iind having four children approaching their

teens, his words seemed to carry an extra weight. Numerous testimonies from the different churches added a further personal touch. Even the special numbers in song and a panel discussion on the theme of the home were testimonies of what God has done and ciin do for families and individuals in the family. The noon meal was enjoyed picnic style with our cocoanut trees providing the shade. A first for our Conference was a special teen session where the young people were also given some practical instruction on family living. When four o’clock came and it was time to go home again, it was very evident that many a heart had been cheered and blessed, (including: our own). Ben and Belly Thiessen Kiny's College

report including the missionary roster. Even if you discard your MESSENGERS, take out this annual report and save it. You will need it throughout the year for the names and addresses of missionaries as your write to them and pray for them. And it is our hope that many will do this.

one on our cover today. I think by now my wife is convinced that I have an obsession for windmills. Back in my mind was the wish that 1 would get one in a perfect setting and use if for a cover picture. The direction we were travelling (South) I needed it on the west side of the highway and towards the close of the day when it would be silhouetted against the sun. But to my consternation the sun was sinking lower and lower and no windmill. Yes there were windmills but none which had just the right setting. Then when I saw it I knew this was it and it had been worth waiting for. I hope you think so too. Doesn’t it make a beautiful picture?

PHOTOS:

The pictures with the Paraguay report come from Frank Kroeker, Paraguay. The photo with the Prairie Rose report is sent in by reporter Harold Plett.

COVER: Aside from the diversion and information I usually get when I take time off from the office I look forward to the new scenes that will present themselves for my trusty camera. Our vacation this year was no ex­ ception. And I hope that out of it will come worthwhile shots. In fact we are featuring

I'm sorry that I do not have the exact location. I believe it was located in the Salina Kansas area along the highway we were travelling.

PAGE 7

KINGDOM OF GOD continued from page 4 venerated prophets that one day the kingdom they had enjoyed un­ der David and Solomon would be restored and extended. Their thinking was pre occupied with the realization of this dream. “Are you the Son of David? they asked Jesus. (Mat. 12:23) “What are the signs that the Kingdom is near?” (Lk. 17:20) “Is it going to happen now?" (Acts 1:6) To correct the thinking of the Jews of His day, Jesus used the Parable of the Sower. The Kingdom of God is not coming instan­ taneously and dramatically, either by violent insurrection against Rome (as the Zealots hoped), or by a supernatural appearance of the Son of Man in the clouds (as the Pharisees hoped). It will come unnoticed, and begin its work quietly, like a sower sowing seed Peo­ ple are not going to be immediately and universally swept under its power. They are going to react in different ways. Some like stone, will ignore the work of the Kingdom. Others, like shallow soil, won’t be able to give it sufficient rootage. Others will acknowledge it with a flurry of enthusiasm; but when the going gets rough, their strength will wither and die. Others will grasp the truth and offer it rich soil, so that it can grow, and by means of their fruitfulness, greatly extend its influence. Of all the random ground upon which the seed is sown, what part of it is rich and fertile so that the seed can take root, grow, and bear fruit? A relatively small part of it. Thus, while the sowing of the seed is universal in scope, positive lasting response to it will be limited. Jesus warned that “the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and many are those who enter by it,.. The gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and few are those who find it.” (Mat. 7:13-14). During this present age, numerically, those in the Kingdom are going to be a minority; the Kingdom of God as it co-exists in this world with the Kingdom of darkness, is going to be small. /F. Ils Culmination (Pounds: Luke 19:11-27; Harvest time: Mat. 13:40-43) One of the most predominant themes in Jesus’ teaching is that of eventual human accountability. Citizenship in the Kingdom of God is a trust. He says. It is like a nobleman about to leave for a distant country to have bestowed upon him the power he needs to return

M

and rule his kingdom with authority. There are two groups he must contend with: those who have bowed to his authority and serve him, and those who reject his authority. His servants are entrusted with quantities of his wealth and commanded to do business with it until he returns. His rebel subjects are for the moment disregarded. Upon the nobelman’s return, he will separately examine the business His servants have done with his wealth; he will reward them and grant them a share in his rule accordingly. He will destroy those who still reject his rule. Or, in the graphic words of Jesus, “The Son of Man will send forth His angels, and they will gather out of His Kingdom all stumblingblocks and those who commit lawlessness, and will cast them into the furnace of fire ... Then the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the Kingdom of their Father.” (Mat. 13:41-43) In a society so affluent that we can alleviate virtually any dis­ comfort by spending money, we who have given our allegiance to Jesus must do our utmost to remember that the wealth we hold in our hands is His wealth, ^e must live each day in the prospect of eventual accountability. The time-line of human history will ter­ minate in His return; He will separate His servants from those who have refused to bow to His lordship; He will judge and sentence the rebels; He will reward His servants according to the faithfulness they have demonstrated in the use of His wealth, and will then show them to their respective “thrones” from which they will share in His rule. Heaven’s standards for measuring heros are quite different from those of earth. Every servant of Christ is a candidate for Heaven’s coronation. It is quite possible that the brightest diadems will be given to those who never made an earthly headline, but were consistently faithful in their daily walks with Jesus and in the socalled mundane duties of prayer and service. Thus is the nature of the Kingdom of God. Its separation is dis­ tinct; its permeation is extensive; its realization is gradual; and its culmination will be triumphant.

I

Schleitheim Confession, Art. 4

' Why Is The Third World Poor? Gheddo, Orbis Books, p. 37

round the world PANEL TALKS ABOUT PERSONAL EFFECTS OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM

"The offender and the offended are not the only ones affected when a crime is committed. I suggest that the church needs to be much con­ cerned." said Clarence Epp of Winnipeg, moderator of a panel on criminal justice in January at the Altona Bergthaler Mennonite Church, Altona, Manitoba. The panel, sponsored by Elim Bible Institute and Mennonite Central Committee (Manitoba), included Corporal Miller, a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police; Dave Sawatzky, an Altona merchant whose business had been burglarized; Judge John Enns of Winnipeg; Cornelius Fast, a prison guard for twenty-two years; Jim Wier, an offender serving time at Stoney Mountain; and Victor Bergen with the Parole Service in Winnipeg.

PAGE 8

PARAGUAY INDIANS RECEIVE CATTLE The purpose of the evening was to provide op­ Chaco, Paraguay—During the past six years portunities for lay people to become involved in the Mennonites of Paraguay have donated almost offender ministries, said Mr Epp. Offender 1,000 head of cattle to five different Indian ministries is part of the church’s peace witness in settlements under the Indian Settlement Board's program which has as a goal a cow for every settl­ a time of peace. ed Indian family. “One primary goal is to improve the diet of the CONTINUING EDUCATION PLAN Indian family through the incorporation of highFOR MINISTERS PROPOSED quality protein in the daily menu,” says Lehman A continuing education program for all Metzler, Mennonite Central Committee Paraguay General Conference ministers was recommended agriculturalist. “Meat, milk and cheese are all ex­ by the conference’s committee on the ministry, cellent protein sources which are made available meeting November 10-11 in Minneapolis. by the livestock project.” Under the plan proposed by the committee, the A second major goal of the project is to General Conference, the district or area con­ stabilize the economic base of the Indian families ference, the local church, and the minister each through diversification. Because drought often would contribute one-fourth of the cost, which affect the Chaco, the Indian farmer who is reliant would total about $200 per minister. During the solely on crops from his 12 acres cannot count on years 1977-79 each pastor or leader of a con­ a secure income. gregation would participate in three weeks of Metzler reports that the Indians have been growth-study experiences, with priority given to generally enthusiastic about the program and Mennonite-Anabaptist biblical and historical about 50 percent of the community has par­ studeis and to developing group leadership skills ticipated in fencing and pasture improvements in and deepening the inner life. each case.

THE MESSENGER

church news A NEW MINISTER AND DEACON Kola: A commissioning service was held for Peter Klassen and his wife Katherine on Sunday. February 29th. Rev. Art Neufeld talked about the responsibilities of our new deacon. This was followed by laying on of hands and prayer. Three couples also gave their testimonies at this service. They were Mr and Mrs. Wilbert Friesen. Mr. and Mrs. Wally Plett, and Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Rempel. They were welcomed into our church fullowship. On Tuesday nights we go to our cottage meetings. We have about five groups meeting in different homes for sharing, pray­ ing, studying, discussing, singing instead of a regular prayer meeting at church. March 9 all the groups met at the church. Quite a large number of people came out to share what was being done in the different groups. Ladies of the Pentecostal Church, Virden Evangelical Christian Church and Kola Evangelical Mennonite Church met at the new Virden Pentecostal Church for a World Day of Prayer service on March 12. The speaker was Miss Olive Olfrey. She spoke on The power of Spirit Power. The ladies divid­ ed into groups for prayer. They prayed about world problems, church problems, our educational program, and personal needs. They enjoyed a lunch together after the meeting. A moving service was held March 14 when James Penners were ordained. The main speaker was Rev. Archie Penner. He told us a few experiences from James’ early years. Rev. Penner pointed out these things that were required in a servant of God's people. 1. Faith in God. 2. Committment to Jesus Christ. 3. Faith in the Holy Spirit and the part He plays in drawing men to Him. 4. Deep trust in the Scriptures. (We need to use all methods to spread the Gospel — discussion, preaching, etc.) 5. Faith in the brethren. 6. Faith in your wife. 7. Faith in your child, or children. Rev. Art Neufeld charged the congrega­ tion to take up its responsibility and support its ministers, especially in prayer. The church should be able to choose workers from its own membership but in the new responsibility given to the new worker also lies the responsibility of the church member to pray for and help the worker. “God is faithful but brethren pray for me”, Paul says in I Thess. 5:24 and 25. Then Rev. Art Neufeld led in laying on of hands and prayer. A symbol was presented to James — a towel and basin. James accepted the symbol of leadership through servanthood. He was thankful for families, grandmother, uncles

APRIL 2, 1976

.... .... and aunts, parents and his father. He was also thankful for the church. His desires are to work with Art and Ernest, to work with others in the church, to be faithful to Christ, to be church, to reach the world for Christ. Then Joy spoke. She stressed that we want to help each other. We want to be open to each other and share our joys and our needs. A lunch followed the service. The Ladies Fellowship Group had a talent night at their bi-weekly meeting. Some items were: a report, and pictures on a recent trip to South America by Norma Martens, a solo “Last uns Stets Einander Lieben” by Mrs. P.F. Martens, a trio, a poem by Esther Wiebe, Some of the poetry and music was composed by our members. The food was also brought in the same way — donated by local talent. An in­ teresting evening! CRESTVIEW STUDENT PLANS SUMMER SERVICE Crestview: For the past school year two of our members have been attending Briercrest Bible Institute at Caronport, Sask. They are Marilyn Goertzen and Joyce Klassen. On February 29th during our morning service, we were presented with a very infor­ mative package of music, slides and getting acquainted, by a group of seven students from Bricrcrcst. What made it so very in­ teresting to us in particular was the fact that one of the group was our own Joyce Klassen, Who were these people and what were they presenting? These young people have decided to go to Austria this summer for ten week.s of Christian Service under Greater Europe Mission. All are presently studying at Caronport, but one by one dur­ ing the school term felt called by God to join this group. They spent a busy weekend in Manitoba visiting the home churches of the Manitoba students in the group. While in Austria they expect to do a con­ centrated work of personal evangelism and group outreach: the goal being to help es­ tablish a church in a country largely Roman Catholic. Our church members will be supporting Joyce both financially and prayerfully while she is away and we thank God for her willingness to do what she feels is God’s will for her. FAMILY NIGHT Birch River: This is a particular night where the young and old alike can enjoy themselves with various activities. First of all we gathered at the church where we got the evening events organized. Some went skating at the local arena, while others remained at the church to enjoy themselves at different table games. Even two of our grandpa’s ven­ tured out on the ice. After many had tired

aching muscles everyone returned to the church. Next on the agenda was the film “Gospel Blimp". The people is this film were trying to witness and win their neighbours to Christ in a big way. They designed the Blimp, a big air ship with a trailing Bible verse behind it, hoping that many people would read the message and get saved. However in the end when their close neighbours accept Christ, they are shocked to find that God had not used the Blimp but the personal loving concern of a couple who had taken time with them and showed them by life and example what a Christian really is. It was humorous but brought out the point very well. The ladies upon hearing comments like, “Tm hungry; when is lunch?" hurried off to the kitchen to prepare lunch which brought the evening to a close. Tm sure everyone present would be in favour of having “Family Night" again in the future. February 12th the Lundstrom Team had a one night rally in the Regional School at Swan River. The school gym was packed and when the invitation was given at the close of the meeting about 50 people responded. Several girls from Birch River also went forward to accept Christ. Mrs. Betty Warkentin is having follow up Bible Study with these girls every Wednesday afternoon. Just a note about our church building program: it is progressing well. The gyproc is all in, chairs have been bought, a piano has been loaned to us for two years, but the get­ ting of pews is not final yet. We are hoping to begin services in our new church in early May, when a series of special meetings have been planned with Mr. Elmer Chilerhose from Saskatchewan. A GIFT OF FRESH BAKED FOOD Burns Lake: The Ladies Aid is helping the needy families and also those who are lonely, by taking turns in presenting them with a gift of some fresh baked food and thus paying a short visit. They are also making seven quilts which they want to sell. On February 10th the E.M.C. Church at Vanderhoof had a Seminar especially for ladies. The theme was ‘Child training and Husband and Wife relationship’, A number of ladies went and were greatly blessed by the instructions received from it through His servant, Mrs. Viss, a former missionary. We have been very thankful to the Lord for our pastor, his wife and family, the Abe Leidings. They have done a lot of visitation work here in this area and have been able to enter some homes that have been closed so far. We know that if we will be faithful in praying God will bring these families into His fold. A few weeks ago the “Ten Com-

PAGE 9

mandments for Husbands” appeared in our Church bulletin which I would like to share with all Messenger readers. Ten Commandments for Husbands 1. Remember that they wife is thy partner and not thy property. 2. Do not expect thy wife to be thy wife and wage earner at the same time. 3. Think not that thy business is none of thy wife’s business. 4. Thou shalt make thy wife’s love by the same means that won it. 5. Thou shalt make the building of thy home thy first business. 6. Thou shalt co-operate with thy wife in the establishment of family discipline. 7. Thou shalt enter into thy house with cheerfulness and a friendly spirit. 8. Thou shalt stand up for thy wife before all and let all men see thy love and respect. 9. Thou shalt not take thy wife for granted. 10. Remember thy home and keep it holy. WHO IS TRAVELLING? Ridgewood: A big welcome home to Phyllis Penner. She has finished her orienta­ tion. Now she is waiting to attend language school in Texas, in August. Congratulations go out to Allan Plett, son of Ben R. Pletts, and Mavis Reimer, daughter of John S. Reimers, who became engaged recently, A lot of people have had the travelling urge during the last month. Tony Kornelsens and Mrs J.R. Plett visited their children in Edmonton. Darrell Loewen, a member of the M.B.B.C. Acappella Choir served at various churches in Saskatchewan, Alberta and northern B.C.. Ken Pletts went to Florida. Bill Penners went to Wabowden for a weekend on a mission errand. Grace Friesen went to Toronto. Elden Penners travelled to Indiana. Ron Barkmans flew to Bahamas and Victor Friesens to California. Lastly, Rev. Henry Kornelsen went to British Columbia for a few days. March eleventh the Ridgewood Ladies Fellowship held a Bake Sale and Tea. Ladies were invited from surrounding areas. The Ladies Fellowship raffled out a huge quilt, a baby quilt and a large doily. A quilt was also raffled out by the Senior Ladies. Proceeds from the Bake Sale and Senior Ladies raffle went for the Steinbach Bible Institute. The Ladies Fellowship raffle money went for mis­ sions. A short program featuring a few numbers by the Endurance of Love and a play “Woman in the Kitchen” was also presented. This play portrayed the Biblical story of Mary and Martha. It revealed how we can become so busy with the unimportant tasks, like preparing all kinds of unnecessary extras for company, that we miss out on the more important things in life. After the program a delicious lunch was served to eighty ladies. NEW LIFE Mennville: Spring has come, and the robin has arrived with the order to “cheer up”. Ladies are tinkering with seeds and pots and plants. Newborn calves scamper with tails

PAGE 10

up behind the barn, boys and girls excitedly present Mom with the first pussy willows of the season. Signs of brand new life all around. And so at Mennville we are looking forward to new life and vigor, and enthusiasm in our spiritual lives. Deeper life meetings are planned with Rev Menno Kroeker beginning April 1st. You readers could join us, that God might, “revive us again, fill each heart with His love.” Praise God, this need not be a seasonal affair, but can be experienced all year round. Little Kristin Dueck seems to be having his share of problems this winter, patiently spending over two months as a patient in the Children’s Hospital in Winnipeg. Medical professionals seem to be puzzled, hassling with something, apparently not knowing what. Eventually Mom, too (Martha) chang­ ed her role from a visitor to a patient for a few days, leaving Dad, (Raymond) to roam on his own. Considering circumstances, one wonders how we measure up to the Lords standards in Matt. 25:36. With Easter around the corner, family reunions are again taking place in various homes. With a family leaning towards the teaching profession, (Allan, Wpg.; Abe, Flin Elon; Susie, Mennville; David, student at S.B.L; others persuing honorable oc­ cupations). Mrs. D.D. Friesen is looking forward to seeing children and grandchildren during the term break, starting March 29th. Occasions like these remind us of that grand reunion in the sky, by and by, where loved ones gone before will join us as we rise to meet the Lord in the air. And so shall we ever be with the Lord. 1 Thess 4:17b. THE DYCK TEAM VISITS PRAIRIE ROSE Prairie Rose: God’s Word went forth very emphatically ten times in eight days in Prairie Rose with Rev. and Mrs. Peter Dyck of Wymark, Sask. Sunday morning March 21, the night after the worst blizzard of the winter Bro. Dyck spoke to us, and this continued each night till the following Sunday evening. Saturday evening was a special evening for the Young People. Mrs. Dyck had a story, or object lesson,

Peter Dyck preaching.

for the children each evening. Of special in­ terest .was the continued story of Annette and Lucien. Parents with children could even come to the pre-service prayer meetings, as Mrs. Dyck offered to take charge of the children. Since they lived right in our midst throughout the series, they were able to visit many homes. May God bless them for it. A number of committments were made which is real cause for rejoicing. However wouldn’t God have been pleased to see the whole community repent as in the days of Jonah and Nineveh. We do trust that the emphasis on repentance will continue to draw our people to the One that offers forgiveness even in the days and months to come, as His return and judgement are fast approaching. ACTIVITIES AND INACTIVITIES Rosenort: Since our last report a round of activities has been the rule. Whether all of these good things served to make us better citizens of God’s Kingdom or whether it was just a great deal of business may have depended on our own spiritual attitudes. The Eventide Home annual meeting on February 19 was followed the next day by our young people leaving for the E.M.C. Snow Camp at Arnes and the Briercrest “Youth Quake”. Both of these activities were much enjoyed. Also, quite a few mothers and daughters attended a snow-camp at Red Rock on March 6 and 7. On the 29th we were privileged to see and hear a film on our Paraguay mission, thanks to the John Doerksen family. A week later MDS representative, Syd Reimer, gave an illustrated report on the Guatemala Earthquake and MDS involve­ ment there at present. He had experienced a heavy tremor just before leaving that coun­ try for home. It was enough to satisfy all curiousity he might have had about how it felt! The Morden Bergthaler Men’s Choir presented a program in song on March 14 complemented by their pastor’s nuggets for thought from the Bible. It is a long time since we’ve heard a better program anywhere. At our member’s meeting on March 17, three sisters, who wished to become members told of how the Lord had led them in the past and of their desire to serve Him better in the future. Mrs. Larry Eidse, Mrs. Alvin Friesen, and Mrs. Richard Friesen were accepted into our fellowship the follow­ ing Sunday. Hospitalized some time during February and March have been: Mr. John D. Harms, Mr. John F. Friesen, Mrs, Levi Brandt, Mrs. Annie Eidse and Mrs. Levi Kornelsen for major surgery, Mrs. Jacob H. Friesen and Abe B. Eidse for minor eye surgery. All are back at home and recuperating, for which we praise the Lord! Also back from a stay in hospital are Mrs. G.W. Siemens, Mrs. Dora Friesen, Mrs. Abram Klassen and Laura Kroeker. Mrs. C.K. Eidse, bedridden for so many

THE MESSENGER

I

years was called home to glory on March 8. Again, our hearts are truly grateful for the Lord's leading! March 24 was our special day of Prayer in preparation for our ^evangelistic meetings with Rev. Peter Broesky, March 28-April 4, May the Holy Spirit have His way in each of our lives!

UNITY Arabella: Winter is drawing to a close and looking at prophecy of the end time it would seem that the world is also drawing to a close. We stand in awe that God is so mer­ ciful to let such a sinful and wicked nation stand for the sake of a few God-fearing peo­ ple as in Sodom and Gomorah. Does not our age look just as sinful and identical, especial­ ly in the area of sex which is impregnated into our young people in our schools. The activity in the church here has been light of late except that a meeting was held with the Pelly Church Board members and they were not quite at ease that they could not have the Pastor more than every second Sunday. The reason was stated that some people did not want to come to worship ser­ vice if the Pastor was not there. So the Spirit of God led so that the church here give up the Pastor from one service in our Sunday School class in order that Pelly would have only one service without the Pastor. It is no wonder that the Bible makes it clear in Romans 10:5 “How shall they preach except they be sent? As it is written, how beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace and bring glad tidings of Good things. This church would like to send greetings in the name of Jesus Christ to all preachers and especially those that we met and ministered to us. May God bless you all is our prayer.

WINTER ACTIVITIES Pelly: A few lines from us all at Pelly before winter slips away and spring is here. We are all fine here. On the 22nd of February our Sunday School held their an­ nual sliding party, this was well attended and enjoyed. After an afternoon of sliding, lunch was served at the church by the mothers. March 15 saw us with a missionary ser­ vice in the evening. Dan and Darlene Bankert representing the Northern Canada Evangelical Mission gave an interesting talk on their work in northern Saskatchewan and Manitoba and showed a film to further show the work being done. Our pastor and Mr. Mervin Abrahamson are once again having young people’s ac­ tivities on a Sunday afternoon once a month. Prayer meetings are held every Wednesday evening. Our ladies are busy working on ar­ ticles for another bazaar. Next Sewing Circle meeting is at Mrs. Valerie Andruiasks this Thursday. Some of the congregation have been away for holidays, namely Sam and Margaret Wasalenko and Mrs. Vivian Anfinson to Edmonton, Alberta. May the Lord bless each and every one. APRIL 2, 1976

Y.P.’S TRY SOMETHING NEW Riverton: After last weeks snowstorm it looks as if winter might be with us for awhile. But the youngster in this household won’t mind, he loves skating and playing in the snow. We older ones are looking forward to warmer weather and gardening. Our Chapel Young People’s are trying something new. They're having their own Bi­ ble Study and prayer meeting with Waldon Plett as their leader. They meet once in two weeks and study a different topic at each meeting. Gay Gustaw and Leland Nilson are engaged to be married in fall. Gay is the daughter of Frank and Bernice Gustaw and Leland is the son of Albert Hansons of Sprague, Manitoba. Although rather late I would like to report a baptism we had in our Chapel a while ago. There were five candidates; Joan Klassen (John Klassens, Riverton) Debrah Kroeker (Menno Kroekers, Riverton) Sylvia Loewen (Pete Loewens, Arborg) Ralph Loewen (Pete Loewens. Arborg) and Bradly Kornelsen (Delmer Kornelsens, Riverton).

BLESSINGS AT PANSY CHAPEL Pansy: The Lord seemed to be leading on a new road, when a number of local Christians took part in the “Family DaySnowmobile Run-Smorgasbord” thing at the hall on March 7th. Some of our young peo­ ple provided musical entertainment for several hours, while others took part in different ways, all for the purpose of being a witness. Later, well-known brother Gordon Penner of Steinbach, shared his testimony with the crowd. What an opportunity for the Lord! On the evening of March 14 the Chapel was filled up and overflowed as friends came to join us for the Baptism service. Baptized were Larry Funk, Mr and Mrs George Friesen (nee Lily Chernecki), Dianne Wiebe and Jolyn Barkman, Rev. H. Kornelsen spoke very fittingly on the first church accor­ ding to Acts 2. After the ceremonies time was given to the audience for sharing and many made use of it. A spirit of love and concern, as well as rejoicing was evident. The guests represented at least eight different denominations. Somehow this occasion reminded us of the first Pentecost service, or could it be a foretaste of heaven? It is our desire to rejoice in the Lord even when the blessings are not that evident. May the newly-baptized Christians have joy as they grow and go on with the Lord, and may we stand behind them faithfully in prayer. WHY? Fisher Branch: WHY do you suppose the EMC Publication ofTice has a series of Moody Science filmstrips available for Sunday-School teachers meetings? (Our teachers were enthused after viewing several of these.) WHY would all of us rejoice when the first wedding took place in our church on March 12? (Mary Reimer to Frank Braun)

WHY does Rev. Ben Hoeppner together with a group of intelligent students from the Steinbach Bible Institute bother coming to our church (also to other churches) to share? WHY do you think a group of men would gather for prayer breakfast? (Rev. B. Hoeppner was our guest speaker on March 13) WHY is it that a couple like Danny Reimers do not panic when their toddler, Kimberley, was rushed to Winnipeg by am­ bulance as the result of an accident? (She was released ten days later.) WHY does our pastor bother to order a series of films “Growing Up”, by Dr. Brandt, to share with our congregation? WHY did so many of our brethern show up to help with the laying in of carpet into our church basement? (Also for finishing the pastor's office?) WHY is it that Christians give prayer sup­ port when they hear the Young Peoples com­ mittee is gathering for a planning meeting? WHY would a lady like Mrs. Bernie Dueck of St. Paul, Alberta bother to attend her home church when she came to visit her parents in early March? WHY would a small group of men representing different denominations of the Inter-lake gather to plan future crusades? WHY would anyone plan a World Day of Prayer? (Our Christian Education teachers shared at school; also a group of ladies shared at the Catholic church that night.) WHY? Could it be because Christian Brotherhood does not grow untended? I believe our leaders are concerned to maintain Biblical principles. These leaders will only succeed if each one maintains the ideal of Christ in his heart and in his daily actions!

FRIENDSHIP BIBLE COFFEE Rosenort Fellowship: Mrs. Alvin Rempel has opened her home to a weekly Bible Study Hour. The book of Mark will be studied for several months. Twelve ladies attended the first meeting. Mrs. Kathy Thiessen, coordinator for the Morris area, would encourage any groups who desire a study of God's Word in the home to contact her. In February, the Pal-Gal Tea was well attended at the church. Mrs. Melvin Dueck is now the Ladies Fellowship president. These Pal-Gal relationships cause adults and young girls to learn to know each other better and be a blessing to each other. Each of the ladies also has a prayer sister. Pete and Evelyn Friesen have returned safely from their Mexico-Belize-Guatemala trip together with John Koops and Tony Fasts. The hospitality down south was very warm. Syd Reimer has been showing slides and reporting on the disaster in Guatemala in several churches. We have a real responsiblity for our “neighbours” down South. Our church members were divided into five groups by the Music Committee. These groups take turns serving at Eventide, Union Gospel Mission, the Manor Home and Ex-

PAGE 11

According to official statistics almost 225,000 houses have been destroyed by the earthquake with almost 19,000 persons left dead and over 62,000 persons injured.

Menno Loewen, a Mennonite volunteer from Belize gets a hand sawing boards from Jesus Modesto Choa and Eleuterio Chiros Aguilar, two Guatemalans. Loewen Is part of MCC team building houses in Santa Maria. (Photo by Gerald Shank)

Houses Going Up in Guatemaia Akron, Pa. —Mennonite Central Com­ mittee in cooperation with Eastern Men­ nonite Board of Missions and Mennonite Disaster Service has begun building houses in Guatemala and is keying up for full-swing production of 60 houses a week until the planned 1,000 houses are completed. The houses, originally designed to be built from adobe according to a plan based on a house which remained standing while those around it collapsed, are now being built of wood. The people will not rebuild with adobe bricks because their previous houses proved to be unsafe, reports on-location project director John Koppenhaver. “The govern­ ment had done an education project against construction with adobe and the people are following the government’s advice,” he says. Besides the core of six long-term leaders for the project, 13 persons have arrived from the United States, Canada, Mexico, Belize, Paraguay and Honduras to spend two months as project leaders, construction foremen and community case workers. Divided into three groups, these twomonth volunteers have begun work in the communities of Santa Maria, San Jancito and La Brigada, They estimate that once all three projects get moving full-swing, 20 houses will be completed each week at each location. Currently lumber for the houses is arriving from Honduras at the rate of three or four truckloads a week. “Local sources of lumber are now improving as sawmills again become operative following the February 4 earth-

PAGE 12

THE MESSENGER

quake,” Shank indicates. “As these local sources become more stable it is expected that the purchase of materials will be from local sources instead of from Honduras.” Mennonites in Honduras have been coor­ dinating the purchase and shipment of lumber to Guatemala. Although MCC is providing the funds for building the houses, each family receiving a house is required to pay back part of that cost by making a small monthly payment to the cooperative. The cooperative will then use the money it receives for the provision of community services deemed necessary by the community. “Temporary housing is still the living quarters of thousands,” Shank, who arrived about six weeks after the earthquake, reports. “These houses are made of an assortment of materials such as corrugated tin, cardboard, plastic and plywood and are built in many of the vacant lots and public parks. “The rebuilding of permanent housing comes slow, and it is assured that for thousands these temporary shelters will become semipermanent unless assistance is received from agencies or organizations. Governmental and church-related groups are organizing to begin the rebuilding, but to date few houses have actually been built.”

r;?;; V

ROSENORT FELL, continued tended Care in Morris. The Young People enjoyed their weekend at Star Lake in February. Harry Koop was the speaker. Pastor Fred was the bus-driver and a counsellor too. The weekend proved to be a spiritual boost to many. Convert’s classes have been started during the regular Sunday School periods. Several young people have expressed their desire to obey the Lord’s command to be baptized. Praise the Lord! As our present church just wasn’t large enough to accomodate great numbers of people on Sundays, we are looking forward to worshipping the Lord in our new church sometime in April. We trust that God will be magnified in this edifice and His children live to the praise of His Holy Name and win many precious souls to Him. Art Cornelsen and Richard Kroeker (local members) were the foremen in the building of the new church. The Corny F. Duecks, who are on leave of absence for a year from full-time mission work, are busy serving the Lord in Rosenort and elsewhere. Uncle Corny speaks at the Union Gospel Mission and other places, as well as witnessing on the job. Aunt Annie and Mrs. Anne Funk are suitable “cheer” visitors. Mother and Daughter Camps, as well as Father and Son Camps have been ap­ preciated by many of our Chapel members. The “Joyful Notes”, a choir of ten teenage girls, with Mrs Helen Loewen as director and guitarist together with son Gary also guitarist and Patty Hoeppner as pianist, have had the opportunity of serving the Lord not only in our chapel but also in other churches, hospital, and community events. The adult choir is led by Ron Hoeppner, who is presently attending the U. of M. while his wife teaches at the Elementary School. Our pastor has been holding revival meetings at Heron. The blizzard on Saturday cut the meetings short by a few days. A large shower was held for Cindy Dueck at our church on March 19th. Louise Olson, Charlotte Wiens and Helen Reimer were in charge. About 68 ladies attended. The same weekend several showers were also held for Sandra Fehr, bride-to-be of Harold Friesen. Dan Reimer has been serving the Lord at Red Rock on weekends as a sports leader. His desire is to serve the Lord wherever he is.

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