The Messenger Vol. Vol. 16 16
EVANGELICAL EVANGELICAL MENNONITE MENNONITE CONFERENCE CONFERENCE
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No. June 23/7£ 23/78 No. 13 13 V^June
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• WORLD CONFERENCE UP-DATE • YOU WOULDN’T; HE DID L
The Kingdom of God in a Changing World Mennonite World Conference 10th Assembly Wichita
July 25-30 1978 Million Belete
Festo Kivengere
Seven Messages on God’s Kingdom Set the Tone for World Conference Work When Mennonites from forty coun tries gather in Wichita, Kansas, during the last week in July, the rule of God for a world in turmoil will top the list of items for attention. Using the five official languages of the conference, the more than 15,000 people expected to attend will talk and will be talked to about what it means for them to be citizens of the kingdom of God while living as members of nearly a hundred Mennonite and Brethren in Christ groups on the world's five continents. On each morning of the first four days of the Mennonite World Conference, which will meet in Century II, the con vention complex in Wichita's city center, the speakers will treat the conference theme, "The Kingdom of Cod in a Changing World." They will represent four different countries: David Schroeder, Canada; Paul G. Hiebert, the United States; Hank B. Kossen, the Netherlands; and Albert Widjaja, In donesia. Their presentations will deal with the theology, social meaning, politics, and economics of living in God's one world while facing the many power systems of the present age. In addition to these morning addresses on the conference theme, three evening messages will enlarge on the topic. Three
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persons associated with Africa will be featured; Million Belete, Ethiopia; Festo Kivengere, Uganda; and Donald R. Jacobs, formerly of Tanzania. In releasing the names of the seven speakers who will highlight the six-day meeting of the Mennonite World Conference's Tenth Assembly (the first one was held in Switzerland in 1925), Paul N. Kraybill, Lombard, Illinois, ex ecutive secretary, noted that the number of addresses beng given had been limited. This was done in order to give those in attendance more time to deal with the theme directly and to interact with each other. "This will not be a delegate or business conference," said Kraybill. "Rather there will be opportunity for discussion of issues, and sharing of insights, un derstandings, and information." David Schroeder, 54, professor of New Testament and philosophy at Canadian Mennonite Bible College, Winnipeg, will deliver the first in the series of four messages on the conference theme on Wednesday morning, July 26. Speaking on "The Church Representing the Kingdom," Schroeder will show how the Bible portrays the church as an agent of change, and how the church prepares the way for the coming of the kingdom.
Schroeder's twenty-tive-minute state ment, as those of the other speakers on the three following mornings, will be probed by 100 study groups of about 50 persons each. All persons registered for the conference will be assigned at ran dom to one of these groups, providing a crosscultural context for learning. They will meet twice each day. Discussion in each of the groups will be in one of the conference's official languages; Dutch, English, French, German, or Spanish. Japanese and Taiwanese will also be us-
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Meeting immediately after the mor ning message has been given, the 100 un its will use an intensive group process to probe the meaning of the Bible's teaching on the witness of the church in today's revolutionary world. In the after noon, the same groups will spend an hour and a half finding ways to put the Bible's concepts into practice in the communities in which each person lives. The small meetings will also provide opportunity for spontaneous worship, prayer, fellowship,I, or celebration. The second th^leme address will be given on Thursday morning, July 27, by Paul G. Hiebert, 45, professor of anthropology at Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, California. He will
THE MESSENGER
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Albert Widjaja
deal with the relations of the church humanity to other religions and with secularized society. In his message, "The Kingdom Reconciling Humanity," he will also touch on human rights, justice, and poverty. Hiebert, who was born in India of mis sionary parents and served in that coun try as a missionary himself, is a member of the Mennonite Brethren Church. A European churchman will deal with the political meaning of the kingdom in the Friday morning message, "The Kingdom Confronting the Powers." Hank B. Kossen, 55, professor of practical theology at the Mennonite Seminary, Amsterdam, will discuss the church's relation to the power systems of society. Kossen is a member of the Mennonite Church of the Netherlands, a group that has been more outspoken on political issues and more active in social causes than most of the other bodies related to the Mennonite World Conference. Ecology, economics, energy, food, and stewardship will be dealt with by an Asian Mennonite on Saturday morning, July 29. How the church copes with the world's new awareness of the earth's limited resources will be discussed by Albert Widjaja, 38, an instructor In economics at the University of Indonesia in Jakarta. Formerly chairman of the Muria Christian Church (Mennonite) he holds an earned doctorate from the University of California at Berkeley. Title of his address will be "The Kingdom Renewing the Environment." Following each of the four morning presentations, three persons from different parts of the world will respond JUNE 23. 1978
David Schroeder
to the message, emphasizing the mean ing of the theme for their churches and nations. The four theme messages will be preceded by an introductory address,
Million Belete, 45, an Ethiopian living in Nairobi, Kenya, will open the assembly on Tuesday evening, July 25, speaking on "Christ Establishing the Kingdom." As president of the Mennonite World Conference, Belete, is the first person from oustide Europe or North America to hold that office. Formerly general secretary of the Bible Society of Ethiopia, he is the Africa regional secretary of the United Bible Societies. The two concluding addresses at the assembly will be given by persons who have served the church in Africa with the title of bishop — one black and the other white, one an exile from his home coun try and the other a former missionary. Festo Kivengere, bishop of the Church of Uganda (Anglican), will address a meeting of the Mennonite World Conference on Sautrday evening, July 29. Over 15,000 people are expected to come to Cessna Stadium in Wichita to hear the man marked for execution by his country's tyrant. His remarkable testimony of forgiveness has been given in a book published recently by Revell, / Love Idi Amin. Bishop Festo, 58, fled Uganda after police had murdered his colleague. Archbishop Janani Luwum, in February of last year. Both men, along with the contd. on page 7
Russian Mennonite Elders to attend MWC Tenth Assembly LOMBARD, II—A delegation of six persons from Russia is planning to at tend the Tenth Assembly of the MWC in Wichita, Kansas, July 25-30, 1978. This news came in a recent com munication addressed to the Men nonite World Conference office. Included in the delegation will be two Mennonites, Henry P. Goertzen from the Kraganda Mennonite Brethren Church and Bernard Sawatsky, a Kirchliche Mennonite from Novosibirsk. Brother Goertzen is a leading minister of the independently registered Mennonite Brethren con gregation in Karaganda with 900 members. Sawatsky is elder of the Kirchliche Mennonite congregation in Novosibirsk. This congregation is also independently registered. This will be the first time that a delegation from the Soviet Union has been able to attend the Mennonite World Conference, even though an in vitation has been extended repeatedly
since' the first Mennonite World Conference was held in 1925. Further more, it will be the first time that Mennonite leaders, not members of the Baptist Union, have been included in any official delegation in response to an invitation from Mennonites. The delegation also includes four Baptist leaders. Two of them are well-known Mennonite Brethren leaders now members of the Baptist Union. They are Traugot Quiring from Dushanbe who was recently appointed as superintendent for the Baptist con gregations in his area, and Jakob Fast, a Baptist leader from Novosibirsk. Additional members of the delega
tion will be Michael Zhidkov, senior minister of the Moscow Baptist Church and Sergei Nikolaev, pastor of the Leningrad Baptist Church. The delegation is a response to an invitation from the Mennonite World Conference. That invitation was ex tended personally by an MWC delega tion that visited the USSR in November 1977. PAGE 3
straight Talk by Mel Koop
You Wouldn't? He didl
Early this spring I was challenged by one in our household: "Dad, get me a job for this summer or I'm heading West." This "green light" put my computer into motion and with thanks to the Lord and gratitude to my Dad, I set my son up with ten beehives. One evening last week three little youngsters erupted with hollering and prancing that seemed quite abnormal. Upon investigation one finally confessed for the other: "He kicked the beehive." The second then retorted: "You told me to." Need I say more? Do you get the message? Sure, it's ob vious! Kick the beehive and you are bound to get stung. Let me talk to us "Bees" here in "Messenger Land." Please, let's keep an even keel. 1. Our emotions are a funny thing. They tend to distort our outlook. When we're feeling good, the world seems bright all over. And when we're feeling bad, the world seems blacker than it really is. 2. Secondly, let's note that our emotional ups and downs can be a real problem, especially the downs. Negative emotions tend to string us along to the point where a small problem results in a reaction as if it's a major tragedy.
Letters THANK YOU FOR PRAYING Christian greetings in our wonderful Saviour's name! Just a word of encouragement in your work, brother. I think very highly of "The Messenger" and am justifiably proud of it. I think the news from the churches is helpful in keeping us to-
CONTRIBUTORS: Our lead article is an up-date on the 10th Mennonite World Conference and comes courtesy MWC as a news release from Lombard, Illinois. This includes the photos. Marvin Thiessen {MacGregor, Man.), together with his family, is with Janz Team in Brazil under EMC missions. Erna Plett (Treesbank) is with our church in Germany. COVER PHOTO: Cover shows a scene in the Hartz area of Germany not far from Seessen where the EMC church is located. By the editor. Photos on page 12 were all taken in the Greenland area.
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3. Wise "Bees" guard against low moods. We all find ourselves "kicked" at times. These "kicks" can really rob us sick when we've got our dark emotional glasses on. A bad mood, in other words, can cause us to over-react and hurt our children or other people's feelings, or be unfair, make bad decisions and create more problems. 4. So . . . guard against a bad mood. Be aware of it. Notice how you feel. Are you upset, pessimistic, cranky? Admit it. Don't continue thinking that things are as black as they seem to be. Recognize the fact that you're just in a bad mood. 5. Just suppose you're on edge because several things have gone wrong. A minor mistake by your child in your presence just about "blows his head ofL" No, you didn't mean it . . . you weren't yourself, right? Yes, you were yourself. Just say it: "That's what I really am." But I should have counted to ten. Or I should have taken a breather and come back later when the fog had lifted. Better still, I should have said, "Thank you. Lord; now deal with it as you would have me do it." 6. Nothing or no person or deed is totally bad. Remember a few good points about the person you'd like to "boil in oil." Perhaps it might be wise to 'sleep out' our negative attitude. 7. Yes, all human bees get into negative moods. And it's human to over-react when we do. But it certainly is not smart to do so. So, let's be aware of our bad moods and always take them into account. No matter how I feel, I must try to act in a reasonable way. Jesus, I know you are most willing to help me in my moods of negativism and pessimism. Thank you/ YOU WOULDN'T? HE DID is the last in a series of ar ticles written for the EMC Social Concerns Committee by Mel Koop, Box 2232, Steinbach, Man. A new series may be started in the fall.
gether and involved with one another as churches. Another spin-off from the church news is that we get ideas fromI other churches to use in our local church. Keep . it up! . I I am really writing this letter to express heartfelt appreciation and thanks to all who prayed for me during my recent heart attack and its aftermath. I hear now of where pastors have encouraged their entire congregations to pray. I can assure you I needed and felt those prayers. Those with heart problems know that after the initial attack there is really no pain, and it's just a matter of time^and resting. Then for a restless, active, im patient person like myself to calm down and take life at a slow speed has been delightfully possible, because of your prayers. Thank you.
1 wish to thank those individuals who sent cards and visited me in the hospital M., heart was and also after II got home. My touched when the Ladies' Organization of the Burns Lake church sent a card. Thank you, sisters. God bless your labour . .
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of love. Many ask me how I feel. That depends which day I'm asked. I have no pain, but also very little endurance. Constant
tiredness. But I thank the Lord for His presence and help. My prayers and love to all. How good it is to belong to a Conference where people care for one another. Yours because of Jesus, Ben Friesen
LESSON FROM A BROKEN WATER TAP Hi! My name is Adele Plett. I attend the Branch CoNegiate, and am in Grade 7.1 became 3 Christian when I '*;as seven years old. Christian « "Ot always .l ■ .________ ■.__ The other day I was opening the tap do the dishes when, to the surprise of my r wildest dreams, the hot water tap flew off and the water shot all the way to the ceiling! I tensed up and stared. VVhat on oarfn earth ix/ac was arMncr going to Hannon happen novfl next! "Hey," my oldest sister shouted from behind me somwehere, "Close the tapi" contd. on page 77 THE MESSENGER
From the Editor Ministering to One Another I believe it may be time that we bring to a conclu sion the editorials on ministering to one another. I do trust though that the concept will not suffer the same fate because I believe it is basic to New Testa ment life and teaching. Failure to practise this ministry can only leave us poorer. Permit me to recall the places we have touched on where the one another ministry is encouraged in the New Testament: 1. Love one another (1 John 3:11) 2. Pray for one another (James 5:16) 3. Exhort one another (Hebrews 3:13) 4. Forbear one another (Ephesians 4:2) 5. Confess your faults to one another (James 5:16) 6. Bear ye one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2) 7. Members one of another (Romans 12:5) 8. Receive one another (Romans 15:7) 9. Servants of one another (Galatians 5:13-15) 10. Teaching . . . one another (Colossians 3:16) 11. Comfort one another (1 Thess. 4:18) 12. Submitting yourselves to one another (Ephesians 5:21) Before we conclude this series we want to look at two more New Testament one another's. These would then constitute numbers 13 and 14. 13. Be ye kind one to another (Ephesians 4:32) 14. Use hospitality one to another (1 Peter 4:9) Be ye kind one to another (Ephesians 4:32). This is the only place where this word occurs in the New Testament in relation to one another. Closely follow ing it is the word kindly which also appears once also (Romans 12:10) and also refers to interpersonal relationships. Kindness, onhe other hand, is men tioned as a Christian characteristic three times. The dictionary meaning of the word kind, is, among other things, "of a good or benevolent nature of disposition," beneficient, helpful, friendly (Luther translates it this way in Ephesians 4:32 "Cor dial, pleasant, aggreeable, favorable").
Does this describe my Christian life? Yours? I'm afraid for myself I still have work to do in this whole area. How often in one's legalistic way is one guilty of the error of the Pharisees in breaking one com mandment in trying to observe another one. What
we mean is that we can get so zealous to make our point that we are in danger of transgressing the first and great commandment as well as the second (Mark 12:30, 31), to love Cod and our neighbour. Paul includes kindness as one of the qualities of Christian workers (2 Cor. 6:6). No doubt he had had to learn this himself in his own experiences. I think kindness is a virtue to be coveted. He again mentions the matter when writing to the Colossians (3:12). Here it is something to be put on. The elect of God - Christians - are to have this quali fy-. Peter mentions it (2 Peter 1:7) as something that needs to be added to godliness, to help make our Christian life fruitful and effective. Use hospitality one to another without grudging (1 Peter 4:9). The Phillips version of this verse helps us to see it in such a very practical light when it says, "Be hospitable to one another without secretly wishing you hadn't got to be." There is a real test.isnj there? Tne New Testament uses the word four times. Twice Paul uses it to describe one of the qualities of a bishop (1 Tim. 3:2, Titus 1:8). The other two times it is used generally. The dictionary meaning of the word is, "The generous reception and gracious entertainment of strangers or guests; the disposition to extend friendly treatment to guests.” In Matthew 25 Christ lays very great emphasi;IS on this aspect when he says, among other things, "I was a stranger and ye took me in.'^ The writer to the Hebrews (Heb. 13:2) claims that by entertaining strangers some have entertained angels unawares. I believe the admonition to use hospitality one to another is well taken. And it may be practised in a much larger context than only in the home, as we may usually think about it. The church is one place where this is very applicable. How many times have we heard people say that they were in church but went almost un noticed. For strangers this might sometimes mean the difference between continuing to come or never coming back. In a church the ushers have very important role to play in this respect. For many a worshiper this might be the only contact. An alert usher can render a very important service to visitors by making them feel at home. —D. S
THE MESSENGER is the publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. Its purpose is to inform, instruct, and inspire. Infortn 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 oav $2.00 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.
JUNE 23, 1978
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Missions Crusade Work in Brazil JOINVILLE CRUSADE One year ago the Janz Team was in vited by seven Lutheran churches in Joinville, Santa Caterina, to conduct a one-week crusade. God blessed, and about nine hundred people were counselled. Now, one year later, we were invited back for a weekend of follow-up meetings. On our arrival we found a rather discouraged group of pastors. "Everything is ready," they said, "only we don't know if many people will come." This is the last weekend of the summer and the weather is so good that very probably many people will go to the beach, (about 30 kilometers distant). What a thrill it was on opening night, and every subsequent night, to see the 4000-plus sports arena filled to capacity. We again were witnesses of God's work ing as we saw two hundred and eightyfive people come for counselling in these three days. It was a special joy to see some of the people who came to Christ in last year's crusade, take the counsellor training course, and now in turn helped others find peace with Cod.
AFEADO CRUSADE The next crusade took us to Lajeado, Rio Grande do Sul. This city is situated in a foothills type of countryside with the large Taquari river flowing between the two cities of Estrela and Lajeado. This is basically a farming community with the city itself boasting of various big fac tories. The crusade was held in the communi ty hall with a seating capacity of 2,200 and was sponsored by the Lutheran churches. The thing that impressed us most about this crusade was the openness to the gospel. From the very first altar call people literally streamed forward to be counselled. On youth night about three hundred young people came forward during the first two verses of the invita tion song. In all, about 1,100 people came for counselling during the sevenday crusade. This is all the more remarkable when one realizes that this is a 100% German community and that they are not as emotional as are the pure Brazilian people. It was most touching to see the pastor of the largest Lutheran church in Lajeado come forward for salvation. He admitted that his life and
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ministry were empty and that he just could not go on this way any longer. Another highlight was the meeting between members of the Janz Team and the representatives of the area Lutheran churches and of the Theological Seminary of the Lutheran church. After two hours of questions and discussions as to the theological stand of the Team, the Seminary and the Lutheran church representatives officially stated their readiness to work with the Team and to permit the Team to minister in their churches even though both groups do not see eye to eye on all points. This, of course, opens up tremen dous possibilities for the work here. It is our prayer that we can, to some extent, fill the vacuum in the Lutheran Church and be a help to them.
attendance of three hundred fifty and building up nightly to seven hundred fif ty. Here we had the opportunity to pre sent the gospel on a 15-minute TV program sponsored by the station. Many of the 271 people who came for counselling were unaffiliated with any church which is very unusual for Brazil. One eighty-year-old woman accepted the Lord in her home after the evening meeting. Next night she came forward and with the joy of the Lord in her face told us about it. How we praise God for His working during this time of harvest. We thank Him too that you prayed. Once again we have seen the wide open doors to the Gospel here in Brazil. We are taking up the challenge to do more to bring the harvest in. Pray for the ministry of our Bi ble school in Gramado where we are training young people and also for the preparation of crusades in 1980, if the Lord tarries. Marvin Thiessen
SANTO ANGELO CRUSADE If the Lajeado crusade was remarkable for the tremendous response to the gospel, Santo Angelo was known for the lack of response. One possible reason is that the crusade there was sponsored by two Baptist churches and that the gospel has been preached there, the result be ing a hardness of heart. We saw the nightly attendance grow from three hun dred to seven hundred, with a total of one hundred people coming for counselling. A large number of these were church members dedicating themselves to the Lord and backsliders being restored. We do praise the Lord for this and pray that this too will leave its impact on the local church. Considering that southern Brazil was in its worst drought in thirty years, it was a real pleasure to drive in the rain all day to our next and last crusade in Bage, Rio Grande do Sul.
BAGE CRUSADE The countryside around Bage is very much like southern Saskatchewan so that we suffered just a touch of homesickness. Here one finds mostly ranching and farming communities. The town of Bage lies about fifty miles from the Uruguayan border and boasts a pop ulation of 70,000 inhabitants. The crusade in this town was spon sored by the Mennonite Brethren churches with limited participation from the Lutheran church. This too was a smaller crusade with an opening night
SIX ACCEPT CHRIST We have just finished a week of meetings with a team from the Brake Bi ble School. Many blessings were receiv ed as I saw how devoted the students (seven of them), as well as the young evangelist, were. During the day children's classes were held, tracts and invitations given out, contacts made with people on the streets, house visitations made, etc. In one children's class six children stayed back to accept Christ. Let's pray that the Lord will keep these young souls and that more great things will happen in that city. We opened a children's class there in February which we teach once a week; the attendance is usually between 15-20 children. Most of them come very regularly. It is a blessing to see the interest of the parents and children. Let's pray that the parents themselves will have a greater desire to listen to the Word of God. Tonight Mr. Levi Reimer is to have a service in a town where there are a few concerned people. They want to hear the true word of God which they ap parently do not get from their pastor. At the present time "Youth for Christ's" tee-mobile is in Seesen. It is to be here for two weeks. The two-storey bus is open daily. There people are con fronted with the word of God. Preparations are also being made for a Janz Team Crusade in Seesen for November 1979. This gives us a lot to pray for and also to help along personal ly. Erna Plett
THE MESSENGER
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sGRoant "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: who . . . made himself of no
reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant..."
NEWS FROM STEINBACH BIBLE INSTITUTE
Phil. 2: 5-7 May—)une 1978
CURRENT ISSUES
Decisions and Leadership Harvey Plett
President
Decisions! Decisions. Life is made up of decisions. The other day I was in class discus sion. The topic of discussion was teachers and their responsibilities. I was surprised to learn that many teachers shy away from getting involved in deci sion making for the school. Why? The answer given was this way they need not take responsibility for the decision and further they could blame ad ministration for the decisions. I was further surprised to hear that in one school where they were planning to implement shared decision making, the teachers rebelled at the idea. Is this not being irresponsible, copping out? If this is true of teachers, a most responsible segment of our society, what about less responsible people. They possibly care even less. This has frightening implications. Who will dare to stand up to be counted? Let's quickly admit that decision
making is frequently difficult. If it is dif ficult to make a decision when only I am involved, how much more difficult it becomes when others are involved. Since all of us tend to be defensive, and we certainly seek to avoid being responsible for bad decisions, we perhaps understand a little better the problem of decision making. Everyone in a leadership position knows how difficult it is to please everyone with the decisions that have
The 1978 College Graduates
to be made. Often it appears impossi ble to do the right; someone is going to accuse you of doing wrong. This tension is a "given" in leadership. If you wish to lead you must accept this. If it gives you ulcers you should check your attitude or evaluate whether you are in the right place. Unless a leader learns to handle this tension he will shelve himself through physical and possibly psychological breakdown. How can you handle this tension? It is possible by casting your cares on God as Peter exhorts in I Peter 5:7. This means you do not worry nor do you allow the decision to nag you all the time. continued on page 4
Degrees conferred at S.B.I. On April 30th was an important day for 10 students and the whole S.B.I. community. This was the occassion of our first College graduation at which we conferred degrees. Four students received the Bachelor of Religious Studies degree. The school began offering degree programs in the fall of 1977. Students can study toward the diplomas in Bible and Music, a Bachelor of Religous Studies degree. Bachelor of Theology degree and a Bachelor of Church Music degree.
continued on page 4
FROM THE PRESIDENT
New Faculty Appointments
Faculty Going and Coming
Gerald Barkman
Mr. Garry Froese Mr. Froese has been the vocal-choral instructor here for the past two years. He has been very active in developing a strong choir program at the High School level and beginning the Oratorio Choir. The number of students studying voice also increased with his instruction. His ministry here has been appreciated and we wish him well as he goes to Westgate Collegiate in Winnipeg.
It is a pleasure to announce the following faculty appointments. We welcome them to the S.B.I. team.
LeRoy Barkman
Mr. Gerald Barkman Mr. Barkman served at the school as High School teacher and Physical Education instructor for the past two years. He has taken a position as manager of the Mennonite Village Museum in Steinbach. He took up his new duties on May 1st. His excellent coaching and enthusiasm will be miss ed.
Mr. LeRoy Barkman Mr. Barkman has taught high school classes and tended the library during the last 3 years here. His thoroughness and diligence will be missed. Our thoughts go with him as he returns to study at the Winnipeg Theological Seminary.
Myrna Friesen
A a\ Jon Gonder
Christel Watzke
Mr. Jon Conder Mr. Gonder instructed piano on a full time basis this year. He came as a well qualified teacher and did much to es tablish college level piano instruction here. He has received $3900.00 in scholarship from the University of Michigan where he is going to begin work on a doctorate. He also received The Henry Lewis Caulkins Scholarship of $5000.00 from the University of Western Ontario. We congratulate him on this honor and encourage him in his studies.
Miss Friesen is returning after a two year leave in which she completed her B.A. at the University of Manitoba and her B.R.S. at the Mennonite Brethren Bible College. Myrna has some six years teaching experience, teaching in the Rosenort area as well as Flin Flon. Before her leave she worked at the S.B.I. for six years as receptionist, librarian and teacher. She returns to fill the need as Librarian and High School teacher.
Mrs. Christel Matzke Mrs. Matzke is leaving her duties in our kitchen to attend Red River Com munity College to study child care ser vices.
Florence Friesen
Garry Froese
Miss Flo Friesen Miss Friesen has been teaching in the High School Department for the last two years. She has been much ap preciated for her enthusiasm and dedication in her work. Her missionary concern has been obvious and we wish her God's blessing as she prepares for service in Ecuador.
2/May—June
Mrs. Dorothy Froese Mrs. Froese has been our organ instructor for the last two years on a part-time basis. Mr. and Mrs. Froese are moving to Winnipeg where she will be teaching in the St. Boniface school divi sion. Miss Faith Rynders Miss Rynders, who has taught voice here during the last semester, has taken up full time employment in Winnipeg and will not be with us next year.
David Reimer
David is joining the High School teaching staff to teach English. David comes to us with a B.A. Honors in English from the University of Manitoba.
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FACULTY NEWS
He has been involved in camp work during the summers, as well as being involved in Sunday school. During his years at the University he worked on the Inter-Mennonite Campus Ministries Committee and served as cochairman at University College Residence. David has worked at the Health Sciences centre where he had opportunity to work with a variety of people. We welcome David to our faculty.
b Vi
Cornie
J.
Martens
Brother Martens and his family are joining the S.B.I. family as high school teacher to teach in the area of social studies. Cornie has 17 years of teaching ex perience two of these in the Steinbach High School and four in a High School, Prespatou, B.C. The Martens served as missionaries and Church Planters for four years in northern B.C. In those years they es tablished a church that is organized and self-supporting. At present Cornie is the pastor at the Mitchell Chortitz Church. Cornie has a B.A. from the University of Manitoba and plans to graduate with an M.A. from the Winnipeg Theological Seminary after the summer of 1978. We are happy to have the Martens join the staff.
Change in Dean Announced The president of the Steinbach Bible Institue recently announced the ap pointment of Mr. Arden Thiessen to the position of College Dean. Mr. Ben Hoeppner, who has carried out the responsibilities of dean, resigned from the position after having served in that capacity for 12 years. Mr. Hoeppner has been with the school for 24 years as a Bible Instructor and will continue in that capacity. Mr. and Mrs. Hoeppner have taken on a four month teaching assignment in a Bible School in Paraguay. They left for Paraguay on May 4. Mr. Arden Thiessen, who takes on the responsibilites of College Dean, has taught at S.B.I. since 1972. He had previously served as pastor in Gouldtown, Saskatchewan and Burns Lake, B.C. He is a graduate of S.B.I., has studied at Eastern Mennonite College where he earned a B.A., and at Wheaton Graduate School of Theology where he received an M.A. in Biblical Literature. He has done additional study at Wheaton Graduate School, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and Regent College. He is currently doing course work toward a doctorate.
Thiessen attends Conference Mr. Arden Thiessen, newly ap pointed dean of the College depart ment, attended the annual conference of the Association of Canadian Bible College in Toronto. The Conference was held in May on the campus of On tario Bible College. The main speaker. Dr. James Bjornstad dealt with the problems of spiritism and the occult. Mr. Thiessen also attended sessions designed for College administrators.
Koop Speaks in Vanderhoof Mr. Glen Koop was invited by the Vanderhoof E.M.C. church to conduct a Teacher Training seminar there. He went to the church for the series from May 7-14th and spoke on "How to Interpret the Bible."
Summer Activities Mr.. Harvey Plett, president pi Mr. /tr. Plett will be attending University of North Dakota for part of the summer doing course work toward a doctorate. He is also plan ning to attend the Mennonite World Conference, speak at two Youth retreats, and work at the school. Mr. Barry Thiessen College instructor Mr. Thiessen has several Youth retreat speaking engagements. He is also taking a vacation and some summer employment.
Mr. LeeRoy Bartel College instructor Mr. Bartel will be doing course preparation, vacationing, and bookkeeping. Mr. Glen Koop College instructor. Dean of Students The Koop family is planning a vaca tion to Virginia. Following that Mr. Koop will serve as camp speaker at Carberry Bible Camp. Miss Gert Giesbrecht Dean of Women, Secretary Miss Giesbrecht is planning to take several weeks of holidays and then spend the rest of the summer in the S.B.I. office.
Mr. John Wiebe Business Manager Mr. Wiebe will spend the summer in the S.B.I. office plus a few weeks of holidays. Miss Emily Penner Receptionist Miss Penner will be working with the Blumenort Church Camp for two weeks and is considering other D.V.B.S. and camp work. Miss Gertie Klassen Cook Miss Klassen will be taking a holiday at home this summer.
Mr. Motilal Patram High School Mr. Patram and his family are plan ning a trip to Trinidad to visit relatives there. Mr. Henry Fast High School dean Mr. Fast will spend the summer with his hobby - gardening. May—June/3
STUDENT NEWS
continued from page one
Decisions and Leadership
Student Wins Math Contest
The Children of Light
Children of Light on Tour Barry Thiessen
May 1 to May 15 the Children of Light and Mr. Barry Thiessen went on tour to the Western provinces. Tour was filled with excitement, joy, pain and anticipa tion. There was excitement because of the romance of travel, and the reunion with friends or relatives; joy because of being able to use our God-given talents for His glory in His service; pain because of the injury one member of the tour group encountered en-route; and anticipation because looking forward to a familiar room and familiar faces sure seemed good after 14 ser vices in 15 days. As a group we want to thank our Creator for giving us a good time while travelling, for protecting us, and for giving us the strength to praise Him. You, our constituency, some of whom we met on tour, we thank for meeting us and making this tour so en joyable. God will bless you for your generous hospitality.
Allen Leung, a grade 12 student, recently competed in the 1978 Manitoba Mathemcatical Contest sponsored by the Canadian Mathematical Congress, and the Ac tuaries Club of Winnipeg for students in Grade 12. He placed first in district 6 and seventh in the province. He was given a $40.00 prize for this achievement. Congratulations, Allen! This is the second year an S.B.I. stu dent has placed first.
S.B.I. Choir at Manitoba Day The S.B.I. High School choir, directed by Mr. Garry Froese, was selected from the South eastern Manitoba region to attend the Manitoba Day celebrations on May 12th, 1978. Our students joined 900 other students from across Manitoba on the steps of the Legislative Buildings to sing several songs in honour of Manitoba. Our choir was part of a smaller group that also sang on Albert Street in ceremonies declaring that part of Winnipeg an historical site. In the afternoon the choirs participated in a choral workshop and then per formed in public concert in the Convention Center. It was an enjoyable and educational day for the students.
Che
seRoant
I
Vol. I No. 4 May—June 1978
The Servant is a publication of the Steinbach Bible Institute Box 1420, Steinbach, Manitoba ROA 2A0
It is intended to be a means of providing inspiration and information to our constituent. Issued as a supple ment to The Messenger June 23 and The Recorder, August Issue.
ISSN 0705-6338 4/May—June
Rather, you pray fervently in faith, gather all the data possible, consult with informed and trusted friends, and then you make the decision and rest in the Lord. It is easier said than done but it works. Another important factor is the at mosphere and attitude you create and have. You can never be careless about the feelings of others. Carefully guard against a selfish decision and building your own little kingdom. As leader, your decision is for the welfare of the group; personal desires, wishes, and dreams take second place. Jesus ex horts us in Matt. 6:33 "Seek ye first the kingdom of God." In Matt. 25 we are told that what we have done to others we have done to Christ. Therefore, the leader becomes a servant and is willing to sacrifice self for the welfare of the group he leads. If those, who are affected by the decisions you and I make, sense con cern and love, even if it is a decision they do not like or agree with, inter personal relations will not be disrupted. As a matter of fact people will not be distrubed. Most of us have a fairly good tolerance barrier if we sense such a car ing attitude back of a decision. Unpopular decisions take great courage to make, but they must be made. If you are the leader it is your privilege to make that decision. By the grace of Cod you can do it. Do it. Leaders can make wrong decisions. They are not infallible. Therefore there is a place for re-examining decisions at times. Should you have made the wrong decision, quickly, quietly and humbly admit your error. Leadership among other things in volves influencing and making decisions. Many times the decision you have to make you make alone in your closet in agony of soul. If God has call ed you He will give the guidance, direc tion and strength needed. Pray! Decide! Then leave it with God.
*
Degrees Conferred
J S.B.I. Choir at Manitoba Day
The graduates and their friends and families were addressed by Dr. Henry Krahn of Mennonite Brethern Bible College. Dr. Krahn challenged the graduate to an attitude of compassion and conviction which he called Christlikeness. He left Phillipians 2:5 with the graduates as a theme verse.
-Mission Grams Brazil Mrs. Susan Reimer writes that she again is enjoying good health. The Janz Team had a crusade in Gramado. About 1,000 people responded to the invita tion to receive Christ or to recommit their lives. Abe Koops are spending the last month of their furlough in Kleefeld, Man., after which they want to spend a week with their children and return to Brazil for another term of missionary service with New Tribes Mission.
Mexico A baptismal service was held at Santo Tomas. A youth conference is to be held at Lazaro Cardenas on June 24 and 25. The five single lady missionaries serving in Mexico enjoyed the Basic Youth Conflicts Seminar at Albuquerque, New Mexico, May 22-27.
Venezuela The Elmer Barkmans ask for prayer that their busy schedule will not keep them from reaching out to the natives in the Tama Tama area where they live. Many desire to walk with the Lord but need much teaching and counselling, which takes a lot of wisdom and patience. Canada Agnes Friesen, serving with the Canadian Sunday School Mission, reports: "As we look back at our various clubs, our hearts rejoice with the many children who have shared that Jesus has come into their life and now desire to live for Him." Agnes is moving from Swan Lake to Strathclair, Man. this month. July and August will be busy with camp work. Honduras George Penner writes of a forced landing he had to make as he was transpor ting supplies and missionaries. "We encountered a down-draft on take-off which we could not outclimb. I attempted to make an emergency landing in a couple of vacant lots, but because of the heavy downdraft the landing was short and extensive damage was done to the aircraft. Everyone was okay, except for a few small bruises. Praise the LordI" They request prayer for their safety, for spiritual growth, that the Lord may be glorified through them, and that the damaged aircraft may be replaced. Personnel Mr. and Mrs. Abe Penner of the Steinbach E.M. Church arrived home for a summer furlough. They plan to return to the Bahamas for another year of teaching. Helen Kornelsen of the Ridgewood E.M. Church is also home for a summer furlough. She plans to go back to King's College in Belize to teach. Our con dolences go out to her on the passing away of her mother the day after she arrived home. Diana Funk and Elma Wiebe of the Pansy, Man. E.M. Church are back home after a year of Christian Service in Paraguay.
WORLD CONFERENCE contd.
other bishops of the church had protested the persecution of the people of Uganda by Amin, who has been responsible for the death of 100,000 peo Iple during the six years of his rule. "^Speaking of "The Kingdom Shaping lie, Lyviiaiu R. IX. Jacobs, 50, -id, the Future," Donald overseas <director of the Eastern Mennonite Board of Missions and Charities, ; Salunga, 7 Pennsylvania, will summarize the experiences of the week at the assembly's closing service on Sunday evening, July 30. The Sunday service, which will also feature the Lord's Supper, JUNE 23, 1978
is expected to attract 12,000 people and fill all of the available space in Century H's three auditoriums plus its Exhibition Hall, Jacobs went to Africa as a missionary in 1954. In 1964, the Mennonite Church in Tanzania chose him to serve as its bishop. From 1970 to 1973 he lectured F ---------------------------------—on African religion and philosophy at the University of Nairobi. The ” number of speakers for the six-day convention, says Kraybill, has been in tentionally limited, being only half of the roster scheduled for the ninth assembly at Curitiba, Brazil, in 1972. The Wichita
meeting is intended to be a people's conference rather than a meeting for scholars and specialists in church work. Maximum opportunity is being given for each person who attends to become in volved in the study process of the con ference. The program of the Mennonite World Conference will be a many dimensional experience with music, drama, worship, reunions, tours, art ex hibits, demonstrations of folk art, and a wide variety of interest groups on all phases of church life. Special sessions are being planned for children and youth. "This will be a unique opportunity," says Kraybill, "to experience greater reality in the meaning of the universal character of the church. We hope it will lead to new understanding and deeper commitment to discipleship and obedience to Christ." The heart of the experience will not be in the speeches delivered from the plat form, though it is hoped they will set the tone, but in the celebration of people being together — people who represent a community of 600,000 Mennonites and Brethren in Christ from around the world.
CAMP RENTAL OPENINGS
Place: Beaver Creek Bible Camp
Dates: July 2-8 and middle of August to end of September. Staff Openings
— Qualified lifeguards — Counsellors Age of campers: Pre-teen through to teens. Date: Starting July 9 (for 3 weeks). Avail yourself of a summei* of rewarding service. For more information contact: Beaver Creek Bible Camp Box 310 Arborg, Man. ROC OAO Telephone: 364-2347 PAGE 7
Messenger News people who are willing toI share their music and love for Cod with wit us.
Four young people were accepted into membership at the Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship at Vanderhoof, B C. on May 28. Left to right: Pastor John Harms, Betty Guenther, Sara Hamm, Karen Klassen, Anna Wiebe.
YOUTH RETREAT
M our church on April 19 in the Legion Hall. We had a perfect day weatherwise, and the sale was well attended. The proceeds will go to help in different mission fields. On May 20 and 21 the EMC churches ____ _______________________ of this_____ area sponsored a Youth Retreat at the Beaver Lake Bible Camp near Flin Flon. Five young people and their leader, Harold Thiessen, went from this church, Some of these campers made their decision to follow Christ while there. Let us pray that they will grow in love and continue on with their Saviour. May 28 was a heart-warming day in our church as seven new little lives were dedicated to God: Angela Renee and Chadwick Dale, daughter and infant son of Bernie and Irma Thiessen; Charles David and Steven Derek, sons of Harold and Laura Thiessen; Carol Raynette, daughter of Allen and Gladys Friesen; Lyndon Trent, son of Lome and Lena Friesen; and Bradley Curtis, son of Pastor and Mrs. Ralph Unger. May Cod bless and watch over these little ones who have been so freely given to Him. On June 10 and 11 the "Galileans" from Winnipeg were with us for two ser vices, telling in testimony and song of their love for their Saviour. Many hearts have been touched by their words and the joyful music. We thank God for these PAGE 8
YOUNG PEOPLE’S OUTING Stratton, Ont.: On Saturday, May 27, our young people rented a school bus and ventured out to Winnipeg for a pleasure trip. We were 28 people, in cluding the driver, Henry Rempel. The trip consisted of several scenic places in Winnipeg. On our way back we stopped at Jake Thiessens in Blumenort, formerly of Stratton. Their fourteen-year-old son, Isaac, had passed away the day before so we were all moved to sympathize with the family. While travelling, much of the time was spent in singing. We also stopped for a time of prayer; several rededications were made. Praise the Lord! The following day, Sunday, we witnessed a baptismal service in our church where Sidney Friesen, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jake Friesen, was baptized. In the evening we had a farewell service for our pastor and family, the Peter Reimers. They left us on June 4 for service in Paraguay. We wish them the Lord's blessings over there. Betty Friesen graudated from her R.N. Assistance training on June 2. May the
he;;.';;:
ing to use. John and Sara Rempel are pleased with their little baby girl, Laura Lynn, who was ^^7; onK^otheH^DaV’May '17.
THE GROWTH OF A CHURCH Prairie Grove: It has been several years now that we have been looking forward to more room in the Prairie Grove Fellowship Chapel. Due to various complications we were not able to go ahead with expansion of the chapel. We were getting impatient as we felt we needed more room badly, especially for Sunday school. However, our Lord has taught many of us patience during this waiting period. This year He gave us the 'go-ahead' and construction of the base ment started during the winter. The chapel is now resting on a basement and a foyer and nursery have been added. Work is progressing slowly as it is totally dependent on voluntary help. However, we are grateful to the Lord for leading and guiding in this building project, and we are eagerly looking forward to the day when it will be completed. Not only is the chapel growing, but the ■ ; we held membership as well. This spring our second baptismal service at < which four people were received into membership. They were Ken Penner of
Linden, and Patrick and Joanne Reimer of Niverville. Shirley Unger of Prairie Grove was baptized and accepted into the church membership. This increa sed the membership of the chapel to 32. Yes, the chapel is growing, the membership is growing, but that isn't all. The congregation is growing too. The month of May saw happiness anew enter the homes of two families. Betty and Ed mar Reimer of Landmark became the proud parents of a sweet baby girl, Dean na Germaine, on May 1, while Sid and Dora Koop, also of Landmark, were close runners-up when on May 22 God bless ed them, also with a darling daughter, Kendra Lynn.
VISITORS BRING INSPIRATION Roseisle: On June 6 the Ladies' Aid group met at Mrs. John Klassen's home for a double feature evening. First, Mrs. Marlene Enns gave a report, supplemented by slides, of their work in Niger, Africa where they have been working under the Sudan Interior Mis sion for two years. Seeing where friends live and work and hearing what they do and how they cope with the extreme differences (climate, culture, availability of products, especially food) from what we and they are used to experiencing, really makes an impression on a person. After Marlene's report, the group listen ed to Dale Evans Rogers give her testimony and talk via television. Lunch was served by the hostess. On Sunday, June 11, the Living Letters quartet from Ridgewood presented an evening of song and sharing which was thoroughly enjoyed by the congregation and visitors.
CHILDREN’S DAY Peardonville, B.C.: Theodore Barkman had the misfortune of breaking his leg under the trampoline. He is the youngest son of Ken and Betty Barkman. So, for the Mother's Day service he was on crutches. The Mother's Day service was a real blessing. Some of the children had poems, and there was a children's choir. After they served in special numbers, they each gave a rose to their mothers. On June 11 we celebrated Children's Day. It was a meaningful weekend, star ting out with camping on Friday night at Silver Lake in the United States. Then on Sunday morning we gathered for an open air worship service around the fire in the park. Wayne Loewen and his group. Bondservant, favoured everyone THE MESSENGER
with many beautiful songs that morning. After a hearty lunch we gathered on the baseball field for races, games, drinks and ice cream. This was our annual Sun day school picnic. We are rejoicing that the church is growing and there's a warm feeling of fellowship. Another couple from this area, Peter and Betty Friesen, have requested membership. They will be accepted this Sunday into the church. We are very grateful that Ernest Dyck from Steinbach, Manitoba has arrived for a pastor-in-training course, and to lead the young people's group. He also has a gift of music which should be very helpful here. We had a wonderful time at our Wednesday night church meeting, shar ing and hearing different testimonies. It's interesting to hear how others have found the Lord. Henry Bartel, who has just started coming to our church recently, celebrated his 80th birthday. In sorrow upon the loss of husband, and father of two sons, is Karen Longman. Her husband Vance passed away after much suffering and pain from cancer for four years.
SPEAKING AND SINGING UNTO THE LORD Arden: Recently we have been privileged to have the MacGregor Ladies' Choir, the "Endurance of Love," and' Mary Koop visiting us.• ‘ ‘ On May 21 the ladies' choir from MacGregor, under the direction of Elvera Hamm, sang numerous songs of praise for us. John Koop had scripture reading, a poem, and a sermonette. between choir numbers. Since they had made a record the day before, they were well prepared. On June 4 the "Endurance of Love" sang to a large audience. It was a blessing to see the church fill up to capacity, Some songs they sang were "Please, Dear " Jesus, Take My Hand," "Amazing Grace," "Help Me," and "Front Seat." Everybody got to participate in the singing of choruses. Leroy Friesen had a message about the peace of God. After both of the services a fellowship lunch was provided where we could get better acquainted. Mary Koop was with us on May 23. She told of her first five years of loneliness, discouragement, and seemingly fruitless efforts at her new location. But, praise the Lord, the next five years brought a change of events. Now many children are coming to classes, young people ' are! being baptized, parents are becoming interested, and several people are teaching. She emphasized how God answers prayers.
JUNE 23, 1978
to God's Table." Also sharing in the way of a personal testimony was Mrs. Ben Janz, mother of the late Royden Janz, missionary pilot. The evening banquet was attended by approximately 200 people. Among the numerous head table guests was the Honourable Jake Epp, MP for Provencher. The banquet speaker was the Gideon Area Trustee for ManitobaSaskatchewan, Elmer Bartel of Neepawa, formerly of Kleefeld.
EVENTIDE HOME
Elmer Bartel, Neepawa, was the guest speaker at the annual rally of the Gideons on May 6.
Gideons hold zone rally Prairie Rose: The Gideons held their annual Zone One rally on Saturday, May 6, at the Prairie Rose Church in Land mark. The theme of the rally was "Holding Forth the Word". Hosted by the Niverville-Landmark camp, the rally was attended by Gideons from each camp in Zone One which includes camps Jfrom Winnipeg, Steinbach, NivervilleLandmark, Interlake, Portage la Prairie, Altona-Winkler, Morden-Carman and Manitou, — „ from The agenda included challenges Cod's Word by Dan Block, Winnipeg Bible College; teachings on keeping records and setting objectives by Bert Moore and Elmer Bartel; sharing highlights of the year; discussions on a riew zone formation, followed by elections of officers for the next fiscal year. , highlight of the rally was the ' division A of Zone One into two zones. The! new zone will be known as Zone Four. Zone One now inicudes the four camps from Steinbach and Niverville-Landmark. The camps from Portage la Prairie, AltonaWinkler, Morden-Carman, Interlake and Manitou make up the new Zone Four, Dr. Bert Moore of Winnipeg and Peter Krahn of Winkler were elected as presidents for Zone One and Zone Four respectively with Ed Loewen of Steinbach and Ben Janz of Hodgson being elected as the vice-presidents for the respective zones. The Gideons' ladies' auxiliary met simultaeously and many highlights were shared from the various camps. The guest speaker was Mrs. Petit from the Winnipeg camp on the theme "Coming
ANNUAL MEETING Rosenort: The morning worship ser vice on Mother's Day included songs by several Sunday school classes as well as the familiar "What a Friend We have in Mother" from a mass choir consisting of all the men from 15 to 50 who still have a mother. Rev. Benny Friesen brought the message from the Word. The following Sunday it was Rev. Frank K. Friesen speaking to us on "Confession and Restitution," a very vital part of the Christian life which is too often neglected. At the evening service Rev. Delbert Little of Global Outreach show ed slides and told of evanglization in strife-torn Ireland. Doors are opening and the need is very great to spread the Gospel now. They are also building a Bi ble school to train more workers there. Sister Dora Friesen is back on the mis sion field, whereas Irene Kroeker and Luella Loewen have come home for a while. Rev. Frank P. Kroeker and Rev. C. B. Loewen are expected home from their revival ministry in Paraguay around June 23. Frank's mother, Mrs. P. T. Kroeker, was quite ill and hospitalized for a while, but has improved con siderably and is again in her room at the Eventide. Brother Frank L. Friesen, who had heart surgery in April, is convalescing at home now. Others who have recently had surgery include Mr. and Mrs. Frank C.L. Friesen, Mr. and Mrs. H. D. Brandt, and Mrs. John F. Friesen. The Ladies' Friendship Bible Coffees, having terminated for the summer months, held their annual get-together in our church on May 25 with plenty of sharing time on the program. On May 28 Rev. Nick Friesen spoke to us on "Renewal of the Mind," another on the series of revival follow-up messages. That evening Mr. Jack Klassen of the Canadian Sunday School Mission shared the burden on his heart in a most sincere and interesting manner. He said there are around 400 Manitoba towns and villages without a gospel witness. In the same vein we heard Rev. Ed K. Friesen bring the message on June 11: "Evangelism on the Local Level." "Whom shall I send, and who will go for PAGE 9
us?" (Isaiah 6:8) In Acts we notice that leaders of the church were sent out. The annual meeting of the Eventide Home was held the evening of June 12. Relinquishing the post of administrat or, Jake P. Dueck told of the myriad duties that had been his and were now be ing performed by Henry K. Dueck, the new manager. They are so varied that it really takes a "jack-of-all-trades" to do them all properly. The director of nurs ing, Mrs. Marilyn Dueck, also relin quished her post, but will continue on the nursing staff. Miss Agnes Fast is the new matron, and her duties will also be many and varied. Two very important changes in the constitution were made: The method of electing board members will be altered to provide for more equitable represen tation from the four sponsoring churches, and, secondly, the name of the home was changed from "Morris Even tide Home" to "Rosenort Eventide Home" to avoid confusing it with the senior citizens' homes in the town of Morris. Brother Frank Klassen, a member of the board, after .making the comment that their board meetings were "anything but dull," proceeded to pre sent plaques of appreciation to three men who had served the Home in some capacity for more than ten years. Rev. P. J. B. Reimer has held services regularly on Thursday evenings for eleven years. Jake K. Friesen has served as song leader at those services for thirteen years (part of the time also serving on the board) and Brother Peter H. Dueck served on the board for fifteen years, six of them as chairman. May God reward all service done for Him. The Morris Fellowship choir sang two fitting songs in the program and later served a light lunch. Rev. Ed Friesen clos ed the meeting with Ephesians 6:2 and Mark 7:10-12.
Births
MR. JACOB D. KROEKER
1911 - 1978 "And God shall wipe all tears frorr their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain; for the former things are passed away" (Rev. 21:4). It pleased the Heavenly Father to relieve our husband and father to be with Him in glory. Jacob D. Kroeker pass ed away peacefully on May 31, 1978 at 10:00 p.m.
He was born to his parents, Peter and Elizabeth Kroeker, on February 12, 1911 in Clearsprings. He accepted the Lord and upon the confession of his faith was baptized in the Blumenort EMC church on August 10,1941. On December 7,1941 he was united in marriage to me, Anna Toews, by his father. Rev. Peter B. Kroeker. After farming for many years he was employed by Peter B. Reimer Building Movers and later by Co-op Implements in Transcona till his health started failing about two years ago. The past winter he spent much time studying God's word and he frequently expressed his longing to see his Lord face to face. He would often voice his concern about those who were not ready to meet the Lord. Also during this time he helped many friends and relatives by doing small repairs. On April 3,1978 he was admitted to the Steinbach Bethesda Hospital where he remained until the time of his passing.
Besides me, his wife Anna, he leaves to mourn four daughters, Marina (Mrs. Lewis Reimer) of Steinbach, Elfrieda (Mrs. Gerald Friesen) of Transcona, Betty and Joelah at home; four sons, Rodney and wife Carol, on furlough from Australia, Lincoln and wife Maryann, Jerry and wife Barbra, Bob and wife Netha, all of Steinbach; and ten grandchildren. Through Father's spiritual influence all his children have accepted the Lord as their personal Saviour.
REMPEL — to John and Sara Rempel of He also leaves to mourn eight Stratton, Ontario, a daughter, Laura brothers, two sisters and numerous Lynn, on May—27,lu1978. inuMiLR vvdiici aiiu i.»c. ii friends and relatives. He was predeceasFALKNERAlderi/ove7B.C., — to Walter and Evelyn’ FailX'of a daughter one son in infancy, his parents, two sister, and one sister-in-law. Andrea Dawn, on March 27, 1978. KOOP — to Reg and Mary Koop of We wish to express our sincere thanks Vanderhoof, B.C., a son, Kristopher and -..J appreciation to the doctors, nurses, Kerry, on May 8, 1978. f friends ; and relatives for the many acts of PETERS — to Larry and Marianne Peters kindness, prayers and expressions of of Abbotsford, B.C., a daughter, Tamara sympathy. Lynn, on ' - April * - 7, 1978. Mrs. Anna Kroeker and family PENNER — to Gilbert and Margaret Penner of Maryfield, Sask., a daughter, Stephanie Nicole, on May 22, 1978. THIESSEN — to Ken and Sherry Thies sen of Vanderhoof, B.C., a daughter, Jill Abigail, on May 31, 1978. PAGE 10
MRS. ANNIE KORNELSEN
1901 - 1978 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ frm the dead. To an in heritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you. IPeter 1:3,4. The Lord called our mother, Mrs An nie Kornelsen, home to His rest on June 14, at 6:05 a.m. Mother was born on January 1,1901 to Mr and Mrs Henry D . Warkentin at Rosenort, Manitoba and reached the age of 77 years, five months and 14 days. She spent her childhood and youth years at Rosenort. She accepted Christ as her Saviour and was baptized upon confes sion of her faith on August 5,1918 in the Rosenort EM Church. On December 9, 1923 she was united in holy matrimony to her late husband, George S. Kornelsen, who predeceased her on September 3,1973. For almost 50 years they shared their joys and sorrows. Six sons and five daughters were born to this union. They experienced many hardships during the depression years. In 1935 they moved to the Giroux district and in 1969 they retired from their farm. For the last 20 years her health often failed. She suffered from a heart condi tion and diabetes. After Father's death in 1973 she was able to remain in her home for over three years. Due to her failing health she was admitted to the Extended Care Unit in Steinbach in February, 1977
where she spent about eight months. Last November she made her home at Rest Haven. She was hospitalized on Saturday, June 9 and due to a heart attack she left this life peacefully early Wednesday morning, conscious to the end. She frequently expressed concern for the spiritual welfare of all her family members. She missed her family during her lengthy stay at the Extended Care Unit and the Rest Haven. Through her suffering she rarely complained and often expressed appreciation for the lov ing care of the nursing staff. She is survived by six sons, Tony and wife Mary (Blumenort), Henry and wife Tina (Giroux), Alvin and wife Adina (Rosenort), Bill and wife Darlyne (Selkirk), Cornie and wife Linda (Win nipeg), Harvey and wife Yvonne (Ste. Anne); five daughters, Helen of Belize, Mary and Ken Loewen (Blumenort), Tina and Elvin Reimer (Poplarfield), Alma and Stan Plett (Rosenort), Annie and Elden Penner (Giroux); 46 granchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; one brother, John
THE MESSENGER
and wife Nettie (Rosenort); two sistersin-law, Mrs. Katherine Warkentin (Stein bach), and Mrs Lena Warkentin (Rosenort). Predeceased besides her husband George, are four grandchildren, one sister and two brothers. Though we mourn the loss of our lov ing mother and grandmother, we rejoice that she has gone to her eternal home for which she so longed. We wish to express our thanks to the doctors and nurses who did all they could to make her comfortable during these last months, and also the many who have prayed and shown love.
Are Y ou Coming To Annual Convention? July 7-9 Steinbach Bible Institute Auditorium
The Family
Here are some of the highlights • Friday, July 7,7:30 Public Session • Saturday, July 8, (Afternoon) Ladies’ Session • Saturday, July 8, 5:00 p.m. Youth Banquet • Saturday, July 8, 7:30 p.m. Public Session • Sunday, July 9, 3:00 Public Session • Sunday, July 9, 3:00 Children’s Session • Sunday, July 9, 7:00 Public Session
Featured guest speaker at all public sessions is Dr. Myron Augsburger. In addition to the above the EMC Board of Missions will conduct orien tation meetings with furloughing missionaries and new appointees beginning Wednesday, July 5 and running to Friday, July 7.
SHALL WE SEE YOU! Waldo Neufeld
M.B. COMMUNICATIONS' NEUFELD TO MCC (CANADA) WINNIPEG — Waldo Neufeld, director of Mennonite Brethren Communications in Winnipeg since 1973, has been appointed to a new staff position at Mennonite Central Com mittee (Canada), Beginning August 1 Neufeld will be respon sible for the personnel department and infor mation services; later he will also be in charge of the accounting department and office management. Executive Secretary J. M. Klassen said one of the main reasons for creating the new position was the need to improve certain support services, such as recruitment, preparation of personnet for MCC service, and communications with the constituency. Another reason, he said, was the internal staff structure which had 10 departments directly responsible to the ex ecutive. ________________ _ Neufeld was educated at Steinbach Bible Institute (high school diploma), Mennonite
JUNE 23, 1978
Brethren Bible College, Winnipeg (B. Th.), Brandon University (B.A., sociology, geography), and Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminaries, Elkhart, Ind. Mr. Neufeld is of General Conference background but is currently a member of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference Church in Landmark. He is the father of three, Timothy, Brenda, and jonathan, all of school age. His wife is the former Elinor Reimer of Landmark.
LETTERS cont'd
. By now the water in the sink was more than enough and running over, but the hot water kept right on shooting to the ceiling. Swish, swish, swish, on and on . ... and■ onl No one .knew what to do, but in this whirlwind of excitement my older sister (who was laughing) ran outside to find my dad.
Well, eventually the water fountain was stopped and my mother and sister (still laughing) were down on their knees wiping the steaming water off the kitchen floor. By now the whole family had appeared on the scene to see how things were be ing managed!
My dad calmly fixed the faucet. This episode helped me in two ways. First, I could postpone doing the dishes for a while. Secondly, and more impor tant, it reminded me that Jesus Christ will return just as suddenly. In Matthew 24:27 it says the coming of the Son will be as the lightening cometh out of the east and shineth even to the west.
PAGE 11
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SOUTH-EASTERN MANITOBA HIT BY TWISTER, MENNONITE DISASTER SERVICE ACTIVE A tornado which hit at least three Southeastern Manitoba com munities on Monday evening June 19, left one dead and some 20 injured according to reports. Hit were Aubigny, Greenland and Ste. Anne, Manitoba. The dead man was reportedly an occupant of a railway bunk car when the car was tossed off the track. Most of the injured were supposedly from Aubigny.
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In Aubigny an estimated 20 homes and buildings were destroyed and some 20 homes damaged. Manitoba premier. Sterling Lyon, says an estimate of the damage could take several weeks.
Service there the same evening, we understand. On Tuesday, reported ly, over 300 registered. Wednesday and Thursday again saw many com ing to help. On Tuesday our MDS represen tative, (EMC), Jac Koop and John P. Toews, Steinbach, together with Dave Loewen and Cornie Fast, Blumenort, were in Greenland and Ste. Anne offering aid. These two places have some 30 - 50 volunteers working.
Aubigny, Manitoba probably hardest hit, had Mennontie Disaster
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