The Messenger March 31, 1978

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EVANGELICAL EVANGELICAL MENNONITE MENNONITE CONFERENCE CONFERENCE

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Helping A Friend Cope With Grief

Helping a Friend Cope With Grief Elva McAllister

“If there's anything I can do, let me know," I heard a kind-voiced businessman say at a funeral home re­ cently. "Anything." The man he greeted, the stunned father of a lad who had been killed in an auto crash, gripped his hand and nodded and thanked him. And I wondered. If they're like most of us, the stun­ ned father won't pick up a telephone and say, "Yes, here's a thing you can do." The kind-voiced one will be glad he made the offer (which, indeed. I'm sure he meant very earnestly), but he won't take the initiatives that might be taken, further helping someone cope with grief. How does one cope? How does any­ one cope? How can anyone help any­ one else to cope? I wonder what Adam said to Eve, and what she said to him, on the day after Abel's funeral. (What kind of funeral did they have for him?) What did they say to each other a month later, a year later, a decade later? Some way, they coped. Some way, mortal generations have been coping ever since. We stagger under bereavement. We screech protests inside ourselves, and we speak them or sob them outwardly. We follow the rituals of our culture. We hurt. The partings lacerate even when they're expected, and may utterly stun when they're unexpected. In it all, friends can help to cope. "If there's anything I can do —" he PAGE 2

said. "Anything." . Tonight I look at my calendar, and think about some of the "anythings" that have come into my life in the last six months, since a telephone call shat­ tered my evening, shattered me. (Murder. Brutal murder.) What did Adam say to Eve six months later?

AFTER these six months of griefheightened sensitivity — like optic nerve endings on arms and face and fingers — I think hard about what he said at the funeral home. After these six months, and after the dark chasms I've sometimes walked through previously, and after the counselings I've had occ­ asion to do when other people were in their dark chasms. "If there's anything I can do — There's no prescribing. Each person is a different person. Each grief is a different grief. But there are things one can think about, things one can suggest. Take some initiatives. Don't wait for the asking voice. They may be little initiatives, but they may mean im­ mensities. I do not forget that Jack tele­ phoned six months ago and asked me if

I should see my doctor for a sedative. I do not forget that June buttoned the back of a blouse for me while I dressed to catch a post-funeral plane. I do not forget a special packet of bergamotscented tea that Ella left at my door, with a valued note.

Keep in touch. Your flowers and cards and telephone calls during the first days are healing and helpful. The rememberings later on may be even more healing and helpful. My sister Aleta died when I was ele­ ven. Of all the kindnesses that came to our family, the one I remember most vividly and most gratefully happened when our neighbor Cleo Woodbury came some days after the funeral, bring­ ing a little potted geranium. Just a few weeks ago, a note contain­ ing a quotation from C. S. Lewis was a gentle and kindly touch of spiritual merthiolate. Listen. Maybe that should come first — and middle, and last. Listen. Listen often. Listen, without lecturing and advising. Listen, with the quiet inquiries when they're ap­ propriate. Listen. Just listen. "Grief wants to be heard," a young

THE MESSENGER

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man said to me last summer, with deep tremors in his long-distance-tele­ phoned voice, on the night before a friend of his was to be buried. Yes, grief wants to be heard. It needs to be heard. When the whole world has suddenly gone topsy-turvy, the weird new landscapes need to be described. Memories need to be examined, lin­ gered over, discussed. Anton Chekhov depicts this need brilliantly in his classic short story, "The Lament." Iona Potapov's son has died and no one will listen to Iona, and finally in his desperation he tries for relief by telling the whole narrative to his horse. Listen. I wonder. Their afterward-days were unlike the afterward-days of any other mortals, for he, though absent, was di­ vinely with them. But was it one reason that our Lord commended his mother and John to each other's care, from the cross? — so that each could always find utterly unwearied ears that would listen?

Remember, you're dealing with am­ putation. In our brittle, fun-oriented American society, there is a deep and pervasive impatience with contin­ uing grief. We tend to send off a sym­ pathy card, to shrug inner shoulders, to say to ourselves, "Well, why doesn't he snap out of it?" But it's amputation. Every touch of merthiolate is valued, every band-aid, but we're still dealing with amputation. Sometimes I think the earlier gener­ ations were wiser, who prescribed their mourning armbands and mourn­ ing veils. After the sudden death of his college friend Arthur Hallam, the poet Tennyson spent some seventeen years in writing the lyrics that become his great poem. In Memoriam. Not days, nor weeks, nor months; seventeen years. This morning I talked with a woman who spoke thoughtfully of how bitter a person she would be apart from her Christian faith. She buried an adored young daughter thirty-six years ago today, and she is still an amputee. Peacefully, now, but an amputee.

Say if. Maybe in a written note, may­ be in a telephoned word. It needn't be immediate; it may mean more later. It needn't try to say everything, or to say much at all. One of the most helpful moments in these past six months, surely, came when Orley Herron walked past my office door and paused to toss Jeremiah 1:8 to me in The Living Bible's para­ phrase: ". . . for I, the Lord, will be with MARCH 31, 1978

you and see you through." It meant a lot. My friend Janey telephoned me when she first 'heard -------: the -------news.’.'."J Without -----------am■ plifying, she said— and reiterated—"We love you, Elva, We love you." Again it meant much. I know now something of the depth of what Joe Bayly means in one of his observations: "Time heals: love keeps scar tissue from forming." Say it. Don't say it. The other side of the coin. I realize that different people have different needs, but from all I've ever known and experienced, I would now venture a few sayings to censor out, if you can, when you're the kind-voiced businessman saying, "Anything I can do — Don't say; "I know JUST how you feel." No, you don't. You mean to be kind, but if you say those words you may cause twinges and alienate. Every agony is a new and private agony. Jeremiah spoke for each of us: "Is it noth­ ing to you, all ye that pass by? Behold and see if there be any sorrow like unto my sorrow." You'll have clues. Use them. But don't assume; don't presume. If there's a deep kinship in grief from what you have experienced, let the one who is new in the brotherhood to be the one to claim it. Don't say: "Time will heal." It will. It does. But don't say so to the rawness of new grief. You are inevitably im­ plying, "He won't always be as im­ portant to you as he is now. You won't always remember all you're remem­ bering now. He will fade out of your life." And grief may want to shriek back, "Don't tell me that! I know it already, and it's agony to know." Don't say: "How are youi"' We're not at the funeral home now, but in the weeks that stretch ahead. Of widow­ hood, newspaper columnist Clarissa Start wrote that there is nothing to compare it with, nothing, unless it's being cut in two by a buzz saw. An­ other widow commented with gentle but pained humor some weeks after her Great Going, "What do you say when people ask, 'How are you?'." Of course, "How are you?" is usually counted a quite meaningless greeting, the equivalent of a "Good morning." But it can be like acid against cut flesh. "How are you?" "Oh, quite devastated, thank you." If you really want to know how he is, how she is, listen, listen, listen.

Don't say the pitying word. Com­ passion, yes. Understanding, yes. But

not pity. Pity induces self-pity, and self-pity wilts the human spirit. Very matter-of-fact matter-of-factinquiries inquiriesmay may be be much much more therapeutic than other forms of sympathy. One of the most therapeutic conver­ sations I have had was with a state det­ ective who came to me for informa­ tion. He was calm, intelligent, fact-ap­ praising, understanding, human. "I wish I could have known Danny Cade," he said thoughtfully—and I was renewed in the radiances that were interming­ led in all my dire grief. I had known him.

I was for a while a person of Kleenex packets blurred eyes, and murky sobs. Expect the unexpected. Expect the vacillations, the inconsistencies. The chemistry of grief is not to be pre­ dicted. Yesterday, through a linking of epi­ sodes and conversations and over­ lapping associations, I was for a while a person of kleenex packets and blurred eyes and, yes, of murky sobs. Today, there has been a pervasive calmness and serenity all day. Tomorrow? We'll see about tomorrow when it comes. Maybe glad gratitudes for what was and for im­ mortalities — the gratitudes that some­ times send me to Beethoven's Ninth or to Handel so that music can say for me what I can't verbalize. Maybe new laughters. Blessed is the friend who can be flexible and discerning. Who is pat­ ient if I dissolve. Who doesn't try to make me ignore, for his own comfort, the topics that are filling my mind. Who doesn't try to pull out what seems to need, for the time, to be hidden within dark earth-humus of a heart. Pray. Does it sound like a platitude? Prayer may stop with platitudes, but it need not. Within the deep chasms of gief, prayer of one's associates is veritable rod and staff. Prayer that is not prayed casually. Prayer that is affirmed. (Who can mea­ sure the worth of a few words on a post­ card: "I talked to God about you this morning, and he gave me this Scripture verse to put into your hands, for your now"?) Prayer that leads to deeds. Prayer that leads to new levels of human sharing, while there yet is time. I still hear his earnest voice at the funeral home: "If there's anything I can do, let me know. Anything." I hope he won't wait for a telephone call. I hope he will find some "any­ thing" on his own initiative. ■ PAGE 3

straight Talk by Mel Koop

JUST FOR TODAY? I've taken this little writing from the January issue of "Bits & Pieces" and it certainly has some challenging thoughts. Why not try one of them? Re-read it a couple of times if you can't make up your mind right away. "JUST FOR TODAY I will try to live through this day on­ ly, and not tackle my whole life problem at once. I can do something for 12 hours that would appall me if I felt I had to keep it up for a lifetime. "JUST FOR TODAY I will be happy. This assumes to be true what Abraham Lincoln said: 'Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.' JUST FOR TODAY is the sixth in a series of articles written for the EMC Social Concerns Committee by Mel Koop, Box 2232, Steinbach, Man.

Letters TWO CONCERNS

After looking through the March 3 issue of "The Messenger," I felt it was time that I rais­ ed two concerns that I have, one with regards to the magazine, the other with regards to our Conference. First, then, with the magazine. It seems to me that on occasion not enough discretion is used in the choice of pictures for the front cover. The March 3 issue is an example. I fail to see what significance the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace has for us as a body of Christ. How is that picture related to what is printed in the magazine, or to the goals of the magazine? It seems to me that if we cannot print pictures that are related to these goals then let's not have pictures. Secondly, a concern that I have with our Conference. I found myself very much in agreement with the questions raised by Mr. Schlamp with regards to the brief presented at the MCC meeting. Ever since I became aware of the brief I have felt very uneasy about it and con­ sider it unfortunate that it was drafted and presented. In the brief we say that we favour both social action and speaking to government, Yet, do our lives agree with this? As long as social action means onl)^giving a few of our extra dollars to MCC, after we have bought the luxuries we desire, and our connection with government requires only that one of its members be part of the dedication ceremonies at our schools (see p. 8 of March 3 issue of "The Messenger"), we are in full

PAGE 4

"JUST FOR TODAY I will try to strengthen my mind. I will learn something useful. I will read something that re­ quires effort, thought and concentration. "JUST FOR TODAY I will adjust myself to what is; and I will not keep trying to adjust everything else to my own desires. "JUST FOR TODAY I will exercise my soul in three ways: I will do somebody a good turn, and not get found out. I will do at least two things I don't want to do — just for ex­ ercise. And today, if my feelings are hurt, I will not show it to anyone. "JUST FOR TODAY I will look as well as I can, dress becomingly, talk low, act courteously, criticize not one bit, and not try to improve or regulate anybody except myself. " JUST FOR TODAY I will have a program. I may not follow it exactly, but I will have it, I will save myself from two pests: hurry and indecision. "JUST FOR TODAY I will have a quiet half hour all by myself for meditation and relaxation. During this half hour I will try to get a better perspective of my life. "JUST FOR TODAY I will be unafraid. Especially I will not be afraid to enjoy what is beautiful, and to believe that, as I give to the world, so the world will give to me." Thanks for telling me, Jesus (Matt. 6:34). I'll try not to be anxious about tomorrow. I know you'll take care of tomorrow, too. So you want me to live "One day at a time"? O.K. I'll try it again.

agreement. When that social action requires us to look at our affluence and threatens our life style, we suddenly decide that our emphasis should be evangelism. It's much safer. When speaking to government requires that we side with people whose land we took and whom we see as inferior to us, it becomes inappropriate. That might infringe on our own rights. How do we decide which organizations to support and which to condemn? The Bible's teaching on evangelism, social action (caring

somewhat and mailed to the Conference Council delegates for perusal before it was presented to the Conference Council. The statement was accepted on December 3, 1977 at the Conference Council held in the Steinbach EMC. I trust this information is helpful to clarify some of the questions raised. Sincerely, Edwin Friesen, Secretary EM Conference Executive

for the less fortunate) and non-resistance (or

CONTRIBUTORS:

active peace witness) comes through very clearly, with the emphasis placed on love and caring. Why then have we made evangelism the criteria? Why is an organization that has different concepts of evangelism than we do, any less right than one that has a different concept of love and non-resistance? The former we pull away from, the latter we greet with open arms. Have we really become a people that can so easily be swayed by someone who happens to say the right words? Ray Friesen 2-691 Corydon Avenue Winnipeg, Manitoba R3M 0W4

I believe our lead article could prove to be a very timely one since at one time or another it could affect all of us. Maybe we ourselves have sometimes been frustrated when trying to help. Here are some useful guidelines. "Helping a Friend Cope with Grief" is reprinted by permission from the May issue of Moody Monthly, Copyright 1977, Moody Bi­ ble Institute of Chicago. The author, Elva McAllister is a professor of English at Green­ ville College. Our missions contributions come from Gloria Trevizo, a member of the EMC Church in Cardenas, Mexico; Florence and Henry Goertzen, Mennville, serving in Japan Evangelical Mission; Alvira Friesen, Rosenort, with GMU in Panama; and Betty Friesen, Rosenort, a teacher in Paraguay. Henry Klassen reports on the medical clinic expan­ sion in Nicaragua. COVER PHOTO: Snow in California? Yes, if you go to a high enough altitude. Photo was taken by the editor in King's Canyon Park in 1976. The kind driver who took us there was Harold Dyck, then living in Reedley, Calif. I'm sure my wife and I shall not soon forget this lovely park.

EMC STATEMENT TO MCC CLARIFIED I read with interest and appreciate the concern expressed by Bro. Schlamp about the Conference statement to MCC The statement was originally drafted following a meeting on September 24, 1977 which included pastors. Social Concerns Committee, elected MCC representatives and Conference Executive. The statement was then presented to the Conference ministerial meeting held October 7,1977 in Morris. It was then refined

THE MESSENGER

From the Editor Ministering to One Another (4)

I.

We have so far looked at six areas of Scripture which encourage the mutual care of one another as Christians. 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 one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2) We want to continue today and look at the seventh one. 7. Members one of another (Romans T2:5) - Probably one of the best illustrations that could be given of the church is that of a human body with its various functions. Paul explains this, begin­ ning with the previous verse, "... As we have many members in one body, and not all members have the same office: So we, being many members, are one body in Christ, and every one members of one another." He takes this a step further (on which he elaborates even more in 1 Cor. 12) and explains the reason for the many members. This brings us to the whole matter of the exercise and function of the body according to the gift or work of each member. The question

which may arise here is whether each local church has all the gifts it needs to function. Generally speaking, Paul seems to think so. If they are not visi­ ble maybe they need to be stirred up (II Tim. 1:6). In the Romans passage Paul mentions seven different gifts: 1) prophecy 2) ministry 3) teaching 4) exhorting 5) giving 6) ruling 7) show­ ing mercy. He infers that as members one of another they have these gifts and are to use them for their mutual benefit. We could divide opinions on gifts into maybe three classes: 1. One church does not have all necessary gifts; 2. One church has all the necessary gifts; 3. One church has more gifts than it needs. I believe if we subscribe to number one we are in danger of: 1) refusing to recognize gifts; 2) lack of humility (we have no one); 3) an excuse for lack of growth. Number two seems to me to be the intent and purpose of Paul's writing on the subject in all three places where he mentions gifts (Rom. 12, 1 Cor. 12 and Ephesians 4:7-16). The third concept of gifts supercedes both the first and second. I was first introduced to this thought through an address I heard one time by Dr. John White. The way he put it made sense. He maintains that God is very liberal with gifts annd even gives us far more than we need! To support this theory he referred to seeds and fruit trees, etc. which produced an over-abundance of seeds, far more than were needed. Now, if this analogy can be carried over into the church, surely we are in need of nothingl That is, nothing except tapping the resources. And might we say even to the extent of being selective? To sum up, we could say every Christian has one or more gifts. In a small church it might sometimes be necessary that one person exercise more than one gift. (But woe betide if one person thinks he has all the gifts!) In a large church this should not be necessary nor maybe even allowed because it will deprive some other per­ son of exercising his/her gift. In a small church situation I am expecially thinking of one where my wife and I had a pastorate where a comparatively small number of members had to carry the whole administration. The

beautiful thing about this was that every, or practically every, member was put to work - teaching, ushering, song leading, church board, you name iti And what a blessing it turned out to be. The gifts were all there. In a case like that it is comparatively easy to delegate different gifts to different positions. The position needs filling, someone pitches in and makes a good job of it: 1) because there is a job to be done; 2) he feels he is needed; 3) it is a responsible position. This "members one of another" is lumped together by Paul in Ephesians 4:16 and he names it the whole body, directed by its head, Christ, "fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth ... maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love." Every joint does its function to the up­ building of the whole. Are we that kind of "members of one another"? Or is there en­ vy, and strife and jealousy and jostling for position? This never happens in the human body, which is here used as an illustration. And as Paul puts it in 1 Cor. 12:21 for example, "... the eye can­ not say to the hand, I have no need of thee ..." May God help us to seek to fulfil that function in the body for which we are designated - gladly. One word of caution before we close on this "one another." The word of caution is that one member does not start to think more highly of himself than of another. I believe for this reason Paul, in all three passages where he speaks of gifts and members, also warns, "think soberly" (Romans 12:3), "be kindly affectioned ..." (Rom. 12:10), "Be of the same mind" (Rom. 12:16). To the Corinthians he says, "By one Spirit we are all baptized into one body" (1 Cor. 12:13). To the Ephesians he prefaces his teaching by talking first of all of lowliness, meekness, longsuffering, forebearing and then of the various gifts (Eph. 4:1-12). In other words our gifts are to be exercised in an humble attitude. In relation to the others maybe we have spent much time on the "members of one another" aspect of the body of Christ. On the other hand, I believe the space is justified because of the impor­ tance of this particular theme. Hope you agree. We shall then go

on to the next one. 8. Receive one another (Romans 15:7) - This verse is again variously translated in other versions which throw additional light on the subject. I believe the key to the full realization of Romans 15:7 lies in the opening verses of the chapter. •bearing the infirmities of the weak •not pleasing ourselves • pleasing our neighbour •being like-minded •with one mind and mouth glorify God With this in mind we receive one another. The final agreement then being as Christ has received us! Christ received us as sinners, guilty, vile, undone. In other words Christ received us as we werel Maybe we are still puzzled by the word receive. Here other translations can again help us out: "Welcome one another" (RSV), open your hearts to one another" (Phillips), "accept one another"

(NEB), "practice receiving one another into full Christian fellowship" (Williams). I think we need to be careful tht acceptance of one another is not based on status or on legalism or on a too narrow interpreta­ tion of Scripture. continued on page 76

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.

MARCH 31, 1978

PAGE 5

Missions Murder by Savage Indians ON THE 28TH OF NOVEMBER 1947, a hot summer day, the scorching sun was flickering above the hills and bushes. People and animals gladly searched for shade during this midday heat. Twenty-two kilimeters north of Filadelfia, between Rosenort and Auhagen, a lonely farm was situated on a hill. The Paul Stahls, with their seven children, had lived there for some time. A day previous the farmer had been in Filadelfia at a colony meeting, where they had discussed the refugees and their situations. This morning the two

arrows came from the Chamococos tribe. Nevertheless, like for the past 17 years, the settlers remarked that these rumours from the Indians were no cause for fear. It was also that way when the Lenguas all moved away from their places. They also warned Stahl but instead Stahl would always try and calm his wife when she would voice her concern. Just the day before, they had seen the last two Lenguas passing by their house going toward the colony. Then came the fate ... Three children are playing outside on the yard, during which time the father is lyirig down for a rest. Themotherjs busy with the youngest two. Suddenly they hear a wild cry outside on the yard. Already they see through the door naked

Today there is a group of believers among these Indians who have now become a more settled and industrious people. The power of the gospel and the commitment of faithful witnesses has resulted in this dramatic change.

old Erhard she finds a little further, in the garden, with a shattered skull with the brain hanging out. The oldest child, 12year-old Selma, she finds by the well dead. All this happened within a few minutes. The mother cannot say whether there were 10 or 15 murderers, The next worries for the mother are to calm down Dorchen......... who is so beaten up ^as blue marks all over. After this she takes care of her own wounds temporarily. Then she thinks of hitching the horses to the buggy and fleeing. sinceTheVs so ver'y weaUrom her’bs^of blood j^e is afraid she won't make it so 7he”doesn't even try. ~

So this poor woman spends the next ten agonizing hours with the bodies, like on a battlefield. Evening comes, the sun is sinking and it is getting dark. The moon comes up and lights up this horri­ ble scene. Finally, around midnight, the dog starts barking. The scared mother hears the wagons coming. They are the two small boys, bringing home the bricks; they don't suspect anything. They are greeted by their mother with this horri­ ble news, "We were attacked by savage Indians. Father, Selma, Erhard and Gunther are dead; Dora and I are wounded.

boys, Alfred (11) and Rudolf (10) were Indian figures rushing toward the house, The two poor weeping boys are ensent to Filadelifia with two ox-carts to Quickly they close the door and Stahls pick up bricks for the new settlers. Two both prop themselves against it. The couraged to hitch up the horses. They kilometers from their place six farmers savages force it open and two of the men ate scared but they do it. Then all five were going to settle down in a little come in. The father jumps out of the survivors get into the wagon and drive to remote village called Kronsweide. At the window. Both the savages pierce at the the next town called Auhagen which is time nobody lived there. In the forenoon mother with heavy wooden spears. She eight kilometers away. They wake up the farmer rode out to his land. His wife leans into the corner and tries to protect some people and they take them to the and children got a barrel of water with her one-year and two-month-old family of the father in Lichtfelde. The the horse and wagon. Gradually it had Eischen with her body; with her arms she next morning they bring their wounded gotten very hot. The mother prepared tries to protect her head from the hard daughter-in-law and beat-up grandchild the dinner and after dinner everybody; blows and stabs. All she can do now is cry fo fhe hospital where they are treated, took his usual nap, after which the father' to God, for Him to deliver her or to let Immediately they contact the governplanned to ride to Orloff. ! her die soon. Once the blood starts flow- ment from Mas. Estegarribia by phone. For a few weeks the Lengua Indians ing from her many wounds, they leave Three coffins are built, one for the had repeatedly reported of strange foot- her and start beating up the three-year- father, one for the daughter and one for prints from savage Indians called the: old Dorchen in bed, who cries anxiously the two small boys. During this time a Chamococos, of whom they were afraid. I for her mother. When the rungs of the wagon is sent to pick up the bodies. Here These Indians had searched the forest for bed are all broken, they sneak out. What they actually find the weapons that had honey. It had also been reported that a| could have happened there? been used. They are made of hard brown few Lengua had pushed their way too far Immediately the blood-covered wood smoothed into spears, four to six north; one of them had even been mother hurries out. As soon as the feet long and approximately 3 cm. thick, wounded by a gun (so people said). Bui savages catch sight of her, they escape Usually one end is very pointed and the after this they moved back to the colony, through a wire fence in the nearby bush other flattened, something like an iron They had also advised Stahl to move and disappear with a wild cry. crowbar. They brought along all these because they feared enemies would What a picture of horror it was for this primitive weapons, just like the Lenguas come. Also just recently a cow had come poor woman! Right beside the window had told them - it is the custom for the home with a short arrow, a different kind through which her husband jumped, lies savages to leave their weapons at the than what the Lenguas used. Stahl had his body, face down, with a shattered scene of the crime. removed the arrow, which had left a very skull; he is dead. On the yard she finds Before evening the army arrives in small wound, but still the animal died, the five-year-old Gunther, bleeding bad- Filadelfia to search for the savage InThey believed it had been poisonous, ly from his nose. She carries him into the dians. Since the bodies had been in the The Lenguas pointed out that these house where he too dies. The six-year- heat for 30 hours they were so decomPAGE 6

THE MESSENGER

^Mission Grams

Blessings Through Trials

La Esperanza, Paraguay It is harvest time at La Esperanza. The Indians have been busy gathering in their cotton. In February a Bible course was given. Twenty to 30 young men and women came together each morning.

Germany Albert Martens report from the Black Forest Academy: "Applications are already coming in for the next school year. The high school is nearly filled up already; possibly some students who apply will not find room." The Martens praise the Lord for the many opportunities to share their faith, both by their daily lives and by word of mouth.

Rio Grande Bible Institute Luella Loewen writes that her Spanish language studies are coming along, though the coming mid-term exams will gauge how well she has advanced. Pray for the language students. El Paso/fuarez The following were prayer items, but by the time you read them they will have become history: Baptismal service in El Paso on March 19. Easter Conference in Santo Tomas with the theme, "Complete Body of Christ." Missionary Fellowship and Field Council meeting in El Paso, March 30 and 31. Pray for the spiritual growth of the Christians in Juarez. Mexico The annual conference of the Mexican EMC was held March 24-26 in Santo Tomas. The Jake Kroekers and the Edmar Fasts went to the conference to fellowship and participate in the program.

Murder by savage Indians. . . posed that they had to be buried. At 7:00 that evening the funeral took place in the Lichtfelder cemetery, with a big attendance.

Miguel de la Borda In Need of Prayer Coverage

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What is this? Miguel de la Borda not on the TOURIST ATTRACTIONS list? But look at its drawing features — exclusively located near the free beach-shopping mall — salt-breeze conditioned homes without possible telephone interruptions and with easy access to public river baths — rich national and local cuisine ineluding coconut rice, succulent lobster, rabbit in tomato sauce — panoramic view of the mighty Atlantic Ocean Worthy of a visit? Most definitely — YES! During the last week of February Rev. and Mrs. Saenz, accompanied by three girls, trekked their sandy way to this village on the mouth of a river emptying into the Atlantic. The reason was threefold — VBS, a baptismal service and a

MARCH 31, 1978

This article was translated from the Menno Blatt which is published in Filadelfia in Paraguay. The author is N. Siemens and it was printed in the December t 1977 issue, thirty years after the tragedy that is described.

chapel dedication. Eighty children and young people listened attentively to the lessons on Peter, the apostle of the greatest Master ever. The week's highlight was the baptism on Thursday afternoon, when a crowd gathered at the river's edge to see a brother and sister baptized, as well as the young wife of a school teacher and an elderly man who had recently found Christ. That night at the chapel dedication this man's radiant testimony just bubbled over with great force and power of the Holy Spirit. Precious in every way! The aura of that afternoon and evening the knapsacked group „ accompanied . . . of seven the following morning as they trudged back those five sun-laden hours along the beach. Miguel de la Borda now in need of special prayer coverage as its small group of Christians seeks to share Jesus Christ with its unbelieving neighbours. Alvira Friesen, Panama

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Saviour. May the Lord bless you and always give you joy in serving Him (I Cor. 15:58). I want to share with you some of the blessings I have received here at the Bi­ ble Institute in Edinburg, Texas. I began my fourth semester with much enthusiasm, really enjoying everyone of my classes, but on Jan. 23 I became ill with a strange virus, and had to stay in bed for nine days. At first I didn't realize that I'd have to stay in bed that long, and every day I expected to be well enough to get up and go to class. By the fourth day I became desperate, and started tell­ ing the Lord, "Lord, you know I don't want to miss my classes," and with a cer­ tain amount of rebellion I asked, "Why can everybody else attend the classes while I can't?" This same day He gave me a verse from Lamentations 3:33 which says: "for He doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men." I felt asham­ ed of my attitude and asked for forgiveness. This day the nurse in her daily visit told me, "You won't be able to get up for five or six days." I accepted this, believing that the Lord had a purpose in it. Then He was able to teach me some things. First of all, patience - I stopped worrying about the classes I was missing. Another thing He taught me was to ap­ preciate my friends more, and the great value of friendship. Also, I learned to know people better, and to accept them as they are. Sincerely I tell you that this has been one of my greatest triumphs which the Lord through His grace has given me in the one and a half years in the school here. Finally on Feb. 5 I could get up, very weak and having lost several pounds, but having gained much more joy.

I thank the Lord because He does everything perfectly. Through this ill­ ness, and some other things, I now have a new and beautiful fellowship with the Lord which I've never had before. Also, He has given me a greater interest in my studies and a new desire to serve Him. I know there still are many more trials waiting for me, but in everything that awaits me He gives me confidence, not in what I can resist or overcome, but because the Lord will be with me.

May the Lord bless you and always guide you. .I'd -like to feave another verse with you: "O magnify the Lord with me. and let us exalt his name together" (Ps. 34:3). Because of the love of Christ, Your Sister, Gloria L. Trevizo (Translated from the Spanish by Doris Thiessen) PAGE 7

Medical Clinic Expansion in Nicaragua The Board of Missions approved a recommendation at the March meeting to expand its clinic ministry in Nicaragua. This will mean training two more public health leaders and opening clinics in two needy rural areas this year. EMC medical work began in Nicaragua in 1974. Two clinics were opened and operated by missionary nurses. This meant that the nurses were kept busy with consultations, innoculations, dispensing of medicines and teaching health classes in the communities. As time permitted, the nurses would be in­ volved in visitation and church-rejated activities. They experienced many op­ portunities to share the Good News. Our nurses observed the Baptist medical program known as Provadenic. This program was started by Dr Gustavo Parajon, a national doctor who has been trained in public health in the U.S.A. He saw a need in public health in the rural areas of Nicaragua. After the earthquake in 1972 Dr Parajon began the Provadenic program. What is the need that caused EMC, Dr Parajon, and others to become involved in a medical program in the rural areas? According to Dr Parajon: "In Nicaragua there are more than 500,000 people, es­ pecially in the rural areas, that are not served by the public health service. 56.6% of the population under five years suffer from malnutrition and 13% of the

Doors Open For Another Year Once again the doors of the Tres Palmas School opened for another year of studies. All over happy voices could be heard as the children returned after four months of vacation. For some, however, it was the very first day of their school life. What would it be like? Not only the pupils asked this question but the teachers as well. Really, I was rather taken aback as I saw my classroom filling up. Last year I had only nine pupils on the first day. I did expect a few more this year but I had not counted on having 20. In a group of 20 pupils you also find many different characters. Some of the grade 2'ers went through quite a few struggles the first few days. Having been away from school for four months and not having picked up a book to read throughout this time, they had forgotten pretty well all they had learned about phonics. Others found it hard to concen­ trate and it took them ages to do a few simple problems. PAGE 8

children die before reaching one year of age. Nicaragua averages less than one doctor per one thousand inhabitants." In February Dr Parajon informed us personally that Provadenic has public health programs in fourteen com­ munities. The mortality rate in these communities has dropped 35%. They also found that their program opened more opportunities for evangelism and church planting than their evangelism personnel could effectively take care of. This public health program is basically community oriented. The community is organized by electing a health com­ mittee which is responsible to work with a qualified supervisor in establishing a clinic in the community. This committee is responsible to find facilities for a clinic and to find a person in the community to become a public health leader. (PHL). The PHL's basically need to be able to read and write, have an interest and apti­ tude for the work and be free to spend about half time in the clinic. They are given a small salary for this work. In preparation for the clinic work the PHL is given a two-month intensive train­ ing by Dr Parajon and other qualified personnel. This training gives the PHL enough preparation to become respon­ sible to manage a clinic under the super­ vision of a qualified nurse. Dr Parajon in­ formed us that the PHL is able to help 85% of the illnesses in the community. Since these clinics are community projects they are not necessarily iden­ tified as part of the sponsoring church. This type of identification is not Most of the beginners came with a lot of enthusiasm and eagerness to try all that would be offered. One little boy is so excited about all he sees and does that he can't keep it to himself but wants the teacher to enjoy it with him. Another lit­ tle boy is forever wriggling about, not knowing yet what it means to sit quietly for a second. One of the little girls came with the idea that she couldn't do anything, whether it was to stand to her feet, put down her hankie or else put her hands on her hips. The language, too, creates some dif­ ficulty for the beginners. High German is the official language of the school but to begin with, Spanish, Low German, English as well as High German have to be used. Even though a classroom full of pupils like this can bring a lot of frustrations to a teacher there is still the challenge there to mold and influence each one for the Lord. It is my earnest desire that I might be an instrument that God can use for His glory.

Serving Christ in Paraguay, Betty Friesen

detrimental to evangelism. The basic concern is to help people in need and while doing so share the Good News. The PHL's are exposed to the gospel in their training program as well as in the regular refresher courses which they have to take. A supervisor is identified with the sponsoring church. In her con­ tact with the community she is able to demonstrate the love of Christ. This in­ variably opens the door for an effective evangelism and church planting program in the community. The program approved by the Board of Missions will mean a continuing of the two clinics at San Jose and La Trinidad. New clinics will be opened in Colama and Los Encuentros. Doris Friesen, RN, will then have four clinics to supervise. The Board will subsidize the training program of the PHL as well as the medicines used in the program. The salary of the local PHL will be the respon­ sibility of the local health committee. Because of the extreme poverty of many of the people in Nicaragua the consultation fees and medicines are kept at a nominal rate. Income from these fees will cover about one-third of the ac­ tual cost of operating the clinic. These costs do not include the nurse's salary and the maintenance of the clinic vehi­ cle. Will you remember to pray for this ministry?

Henry Klassen Executive Secretary

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The four teachers at the Tres Palmas School in Paraguay: Left to right — Betty Friesen (Morris, Manitoba), Sarah Martens (Kola, Manitoba), Adelina Janz (a member of the local church), Viviana Vera (a Paraguayan).

THE MESSENGER

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Some of the English students at the Joshi Tandai College in Japan.

Thankful for Open Doors We arrived in Toyamo, Japan on August 31, 1977 to begin a two-year term of teaching conversational English to Japanese under the Japan Evangelical Mission. Our ten classes per week vary from one to 30, rang­ ing in age from 14 to about 50. Some of our students' occupations include school students, housewives, businessmen, printers, office per­ sonnel, electrical consultants, and even a Japanese English teacher! The ten classes we teach per week give us the opportunity of meeting more than a hundred individuals each week. It is our desire not only to teach them the English that they

are so eager to learn, but to also share the message of salvation. We are thankful for the open doors in some of the classes to teach Bible lessons, and trust the Lord to continue opening more doors! "He is able." In addition to the weekly classes a monthly English Seminar is held at the church to which all the students are invited. This provides a more informal time together as we play table games, sing, have a Bible lesson and some tea. Our second main avenue of outreach is through the church. Our pastor and his wife, Mr. and Mrs. Akira Uchida, and another couple who also assist in the church work are all members of the Japan Evangelical Mission. We seek to help

them in whatever way possible which includes a variety of things, from cleaning the church to providing "taxi service" for the ones who attend the evening services. Buses start their last run at about 9:00 p.m. I also have had the opportunity of delivering several English messages. This is quite a challenge because everything has to be translated into Japanese. But we trust that the precious truths from Cod's Word will help the 10 -15 individuals who usually attend the services, to grow, even if they are presented in this way. Some of our time is also devoted to language study. We spend three hours a week with our Japanese teacher and are finding these classes very useful. The latest step in our studies was to learn the "Hiranga" Japanese characters, so now we can sing along with the others at church! During the six months we have been in Japan we have seen God working in the lives of others, However, we have probably seen a greater work done in our own lives and attitudes. We thank Him so much that we can continue to be in His school of training. It is our prayer that we will always be ready and willing to learn the lessons He wants to teach us each day. Henry and Florence Goertzen

Lord, Make my Life a Prayer

OPPORTUNITIES WITH THE EMC BOARD OF MISSIONS FOR SUMMER CHRISTIAN SERVICE . . . IN CANADA — Camp ministry, Vacation Bible School (one to eight weeks)

Applications should be in by April 30 Box 1268 Steinbach, Man. ROA 2A0 MARCH 31, 1978

Lord, make my life u prayer; A prayer of praise Praisi)iy Thee for life, Praisitiy Thee for joy, A joy that no man can take away. Make my life a fray rance A sweet savour in the nostrils of God. Lord, make my life a prayer; A prayer of en treaty Prayiny for others Those who are lonely Or those who are lost. A constant prayer that uplifts Someone who has special needs. Lord, make my life a prayer; A prayer of submission Lettiny Thee control my life. My family, my time, my dreams, My possessitms and all my sins. Please sort them out Accordiny to Thy plati. Lord, make my life a prayer. Laura Siemens PAGE 9

Messenger News EMC SNOW CAMP 1978 The EMC Youth Committee once again sponsored the annual EMC Snow Camp for young people at Re/ Rock. It was filled to capacity as it has been in the last few years. There seemed to be a lot of an­ ticipation and expectation for the camp; many churches had their registrations in before the posters even went up. There was good reason for this year's anticipation, es­ pecially since the topic under discus­ sion was "Rock and Roll Music." Doug Howard was the invited speaker. His background, especially his interest in rock music, dates back to when he went to Bethel Seminary in Minneapolis and helped along in the drug squad in that city. As a result of this he saw the snowballing effects of drugs - prostitution, demon possession, and Satan worship. During this time he realized the effects that music was having on individuals and came to the conclu­ sion that music is Satan's number one tool in this world. With this wealth of experience Doug was able to relate to most to the young people at snow camp. His approach was very practical and helpful. He started off in his first session by giving the basis of our authority, the scriptures. This was given as a presuppositional fact and he never attempted giving evidence for this fact. From here he went into the se­ cond session speaking on Satan's kingdom. Some passages he used such as Isaiah 14 and Exekiel 28 were questionable as to their true inten­ tions. But in spite of this hermeneutical disagreement, he entered the third session with a very practical approach. In this session he played the songs of Don Hill, Olivia Newton John, Elvis Presley, and the Eagles. After playing each song he put the words on the overhead projector and allowed the group to feed back what they felt the songs were saying. Many of the young people were

PAGE 10

open and admitted that the songs that had been listening to regularly were actually inconsistent with a Christian view of life. In fact, some of the songs were actually advocating worship of, and obedience to, Satan. This session, more than the others, spoke to the hearts of the young people. The last session sort of wound things up and in this session he dis­ cussed Christian rock music. Here he referred to the belief that rock music itself is sexually stimulating. His con­ clusion on this topic was not really hard and fast as he didn't really define rock in a concrete manner; rather, young people were allowed to examine themselves and see how the music they were listening to was affecting them. The weekend had more to it than just lectures; it was also a time of physical interaction of individuals in recreation. This year again, as was the case last year, the "Goof" Cup was awarded. There was also time

for cross-country skiing, snowshoe­ ing and other types of outdoor activ­ ity. There were also time of fellow­ ship and interaction between indiv­ iduals, especially since the topic of the weekend was one that hit home to many young people. As for next year, get your applications in early since I am sure it will be another full house and as ex­ citing as this year's. Phil Klassen

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Doug Howard of Seattle, Washington, speaker at the EMC Snow Camp '78 at Red Rock.

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Winners of the Goof Cup at the 1978 Snow Camp (left to right): Calvin Schapansky, Gary Anelien, Mervin Dyck, Darryl Koop, Charles Koop, Marvin Hildebrandt, Roxie Esau, Judy Friesen, Jane Hiebert, Karen Brandt, Dale Sawatsky, Gordon Dyck, David Loewen.

THE MESSENGER

Young people burn records Steinbach, Man.: A church parking lot is not usually thought of as a place for burning refuse. But it happened in Steinbach at the close of the Sutera Twins crusade. The occa­ sion was the setting on fire the contents of a couple of boxes labelled ROCK, STOCK and

BARREL, which had been collecting different questionable (records, tapes, printed matter, etc.) paraphernalia from young people during the meetings. Total value of donated items was estimated to run into the thousands of dollars.

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Pictured are some of the young people of the Steinbach church who participated in the ROCK, STOCK and BARREL collection burning.

MISSION CONFERENCE MESSAGES ARDEN:We were privileged to have John Dyck as our guest speaker for our Missionary Conference, March 10-12th. He worked for the Janz Team in Germany. In order to share with you, so that you can benefit from his teaching as well, I will give a brief outline of his messages. 1. What did Jesus Teach about Missions? (Luke 10) 1. The LORD must appoint and send. 2. BESEECH the Lord to send out reapers. 3. The message and messenger are viewed as hostilities. 4. Carry no bag or purse, greet no one by the way. 5. The laborer is worthy of his labor. 6. The message is to be directed at the total man. 7. The message is to be proclaimed MARCH 31, 1978

regardless of the response. II. Why Missions? (Acts 17) 1. Because of man's great ignorance of God, and his tendency to become ignorant again. 2. Man is really God's rebellious property. 3. We live in a period of time when God commands everyone to repent. 4. Because He has fixed a day of judgement. III. The Christian and his Attitudes (II Cor. 4) 1. The Christian and his attitude towards himself. 2. His attitude toward life and death. 3. His willingness to forego a life style for Jesus. IV. The Christian and his Motivation (II Cor. 4:16-5:10) 1. His motivation is inspired by an eternal reward. "2/11” reduces our occupation with material things.

TO BELIZE KOLA: Two young men left Kola for Belize on January 31. Rocky Siemens and Ernest Reimer arrived there February 1. Mr. Peter Wiebe got them from Belize to King's College. Next day they were lining up beams and started a building to accomodate staff at the college. The building was built on poles about three feet from the ground. Some things that were of interest to Ernest and Rocky were the following: - It could be gS’F. in the shade on a day in February. - A day's work lasted from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. - It was dark at 6 p.m. - It wasn't uncommon for someone to walk, or at least start walking, the 32 miles from Belize City to King's College. - The road to King's College was a onelanel road. - They had no hydro. Life was a lot more primitive. It was interesting to see how people lived in these conditions. Ernie sums it up this way, "It gave us a good feeling to know that we'd contributed by building King's College." Rocky adds, "I appreciated the experience of going down to a mission field where the life style is not so rushed. Some of Kola's young people went to Snow Camp at Red Rock Lake.Andrew Friesen and Jim Penner took them in the van. The camp speaker was Doug Howard. He talked about rock music. A few points that came out in his talks and discussions and analyzing of rock songs' words were: - Rock music has to pass a certain sen­ suality test to be categorized as rock. - Words are often depressing, negative. Don Neufeld said in a Sunday morning church report, "I think the Lord was really speaking to young people about the way they were living."

SPECIAL SPEAKER RIDGEWOOD: on March 12 we were blessed in message and song by Jim Reese from the Ken Campbell Crusade. He sang "Cod is so Wonderful" and "How Rich I Am" which blended in well with his talk on faith. Some pointers he brought out were faith obeys, faith separates, faith sojourns, faith seeks, faith has vision, faith strengthens, faith satisfies, faith sacrifices. This is the formula for living a victorious Christian life. On March 15 the "Endurance of Love" group left on a tour of the United States. They will be serving in a number of places in North and South Dakota and Kansas. They are ex­ pecting to be back April 3. May the Lord bless them and also their hearers in their service. Pastor Henry Korneisen and his wife and the Living Letters Quartet, together with their wifes, are travelling by bus to Vanderhoof, B.C. They are leaving March 29 for an EMC conference in Vanderhoof. They will also be serving in Burns Lake, B.C. on Sunday, April 2. Martin Penners cam home March 18 from visiting their daughter Edna, serving in . Paraguay. They also went to Belize to see some of ouf som® our other missionaries serving there.

3. It enhances the prospect of death.

PAGE 11

BABY DEDICATION MACGREGOR: I haven't had a report for a long time so shall quickly mention some things that have happened since the last report. Baby dedication was held on October 2. Bill and Sharon Esau dedicated their little girl. Shannon Crystal, and Larry and Ruby Heppner dedicated their son, Scott Lawrence. The young people put on a play and a can­ tata for Christmas. They also sang songs from Handel's Messiah which were much ap­ preciated. The Sunday School Christmas program was held on December 23. With the church filled to capacity we heard songs by the Junior Choir, poems and quite a few short plays. Bible studies have again started this winter. All the people in our congregation were divided into six different groups. Each group meets once a week for a Bible study for six weeks. The turn-outs are usually quite good and the fellowship is just great. February 12 was baptism Sunday. Barb Rodgers and Karen Klassen were baptized and accepted as members. Communion was held in the afternoon. Rev. Ben D. Reimer spoke on the thrill of salvation. A speedy recovery is extended to Tena Sawatzky who underwent surgery last week. Pastor and Mrs. Koop were involved in a car accident near Wawota, Sask, on February 15. No one was seriously injured; however, Mrs. Koop was hospitalized with minor injuries for two days. We are very thankful that nothing worse happened. Congratulations to Marvin Koop and Evelyn Thiessen on their engagement. Also con­ gratulations to Darlene Rodgers and Bill Lothian on their engagement. Clarice Giesbrecht left for Cannon Beach, Oregon to attend Ecola Hall for a short term Bible study — seven weeks. Our church has decided to start a Pioneer Girls program. We plan to start in fall and hope to see a lot of girls out.

ONE BAPTIZED PEARDONVILLE: We praise the Lord for Darlene Friesen who was baptized and accepted into membership on Jan. 15. It was a special, meaningful service. The Falk Quartet served us with some songs. Please remember to pray for Darlene that she will be true and faithful to her Lord and Master. There are not too many girls attending our church that are her age. Many of you would not recognize our church building now, should you drive past

BAPTISMAL SERVICE BLUMENORT: On February 26 we had a baptismal service as well as membership reception. Isaac Bueckert, Gary (son of Otto Ungers), Arlen Reimer (son of Martin Reimers), and Allen Thiessen (son of Arden Thiessens) were baptized and received into fellowship. Norman Petkau from Mexico was received into our church. Our prayer is that these new members will experience real

PAGE 12

Peardonville. It's surprising what can be done in two rainy days - painting, old trees removed and new shrubs planted. Why don't you come and see for yourself what a tremendous ______ change took place and voluntarily at that. March 8th, after our regular Bible study we surprised our pastor, Arnold Fast by celebrating his birthday. He was overwhelmed by the little golf cart and clubs he found on his cake made by one of the ladies. March 17th we had a fellowship supper at the prepared me church. VIIUIk.ll. George GlCUIgC Laird, LflllU, our UUl chef, picpaicu a delicious meal of Chinese food. The young people were in charge of serving, and they made a good job of it. Pastor Fast had a short devotional.

MEN’S FRIENDSHIP BANQUET L.‘. PORTAGE LA PRAIRIE:About seventy

in our church basement on Frimen gathered i day, March 3, for our annual Men's Friendship Banquet. The evening started with a delicious home-cooked meal at 6:30 p.m., after which came irnroductions and a skill-testing parbur game. The "Fruit of the Spirit" quartet was present for the evening and favoured the audience with lovely music and words of testimony. ThTr^ain feature, the special guest speaker, was Ed Lepp from Brookdale, Manitoba. He

Weddings BUECKERT — KORNELSON: Isaac, son of Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Bueckert of Morden, Man. was married to Sarah, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jac Kornelson of Blumenort, Man. The wedding took place on March 5,1978 at the Blumenort EMC with Rev, Melvin Penner of ff,

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Blumenort officiating.

Births REIMER — to Mervin and Velma Reimer of R.R.1, Steinbach, a daughter, Tamara Dawn, on November 18, 1977.

THIESSEN — to Gerald and Lorraine Thiessen of Blumenort, a son, Michael

Ryan, on January 5, 1978. RODGERS — to Evelyn and George Rodgers of MacGregor, a daughter.

Melodie May, on January 17, 1978.

related the dramatic story of his airplane crash a few years ago while working as a bush pilot in northern Ontario. In a miraculous way God kept him alive through 48 hours of sub-zero f A nn n ArI I lir I Ar A rJ -4 temperatures. I—His lone t-^nrcAAA passenger had died, and yet Ed knew the protection and provision of God while in severe pain due to broken bones, inadequate shelter and howling wolves. —He was finally spotted through unusual circumstances and then was able to receive the much needed physical and medical attention. He has had one hand and the fingers of the other amputated, though. He hasfrequent opportunities now-to share with other people his faith and God's faithfulness as he relates his story. The evening provided a good opportunity for outreach to unsaved friends and colleagues; it was under the leadership of Abe Friesen. We very much appreciated the services of Gerry Hildebrandt, a returned missionary from Brazil, during our missionary emphasis weekend in February. In one of his messages he referred to the term, the fourth world, which consists of all the unsaved people around us. This is a challenge for every believer to consider. Missionary reports were also presented to us by Henry Klassen and Frank Kroekers.

LOEPPKY to Ben and Elsie Loeppky of Roseisle, a son. Dale Anton John, on February 1, 1978.

growth in Christ. Our pastor, John Loewen, went out West to visit some of our members in the different Bi­ ble schools. He visited Peace River, Okanagan, Prairie and Briercrest Bible Schools. Fred Klassen, our youth leader, had previously gone East to visit our students at Moody and Trinity Colleges. March 12 we had a missions night again. This time Dora Friesen spoke on the work in Mexico and challenged us to "make sure you

find Cod's plan for your life." Bill Newell from World Vision gave us the message emphasiz­ ing loving our neighbour, as illustrated in the story of the Good Samaritan. On March 4 Mr. and Mrs. John D.K. Plett celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary with friends and relatives. They had a lunch and program. Our sympathies go out to Ken and Phyllis Penner of Landmark on the passing away of their infant daughter.

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GIESBRECHT — to Harold and Elaine Giesbrecht of Austin, a daughter, Jaynee LoRae, on February 23, 1978.

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REIMER — to Rick and Alice Reimer of R.R.1, Steinbach, a daughter, Gerrilyn Rose, on March 1, 1978.

BARKMAN — to Melvin and Arlene Barkman of Riverton, a daughter, Andrea Mae, on March 10, 1978. GOERTZEN - to Henry and Florence ------- ry and Florence Goertzen of Japan, a daughter, Twyla Crystal LaDawn, on March 16, 1978.

FRIESEN — to Menno and Barbara Friesen of Nipawin, Sask., a son, Cyril Dean, on March 17, 1978. VVIEBE — to Larry and Teena Wiebe of

Regina, Sask., a daughter, Sherri Gwen, on March 18, 1978.

THE MESSENGER

INTERFAITH WORSHIP SERVICE BIRCH RIVER:An interfaith worship ser­ vice was held in the Legion Hall in Birch River on February 26. It was well attended. Pastor Ralph Unger, Rev. Thelma Tanner and Father Schmeltz brought the messages. The collec­ tion of well over a hundred dollars was presented to the Pat Hall family who had lost their home and all contents including clothing in a fire two days previously.

Pastor Kent Robblee of Little Woody Baptist Church near Swan River brought the message on March 12 in the morning service in the form of a seminar, namely "Build a Bridge for Christ." Through study we found how we could best approach others for Cod. I pray that each one of us may profit by putting into practice what we have learned.

Darlene Friesen was baptized and accepted into membership at the Peardonville Fellowship on January 15. Rev. Arnold Fast officiated.

On March 19 an Easter program was presented in the Christian Fellowship Center. It consisted of singing, an accordion solo, Bi­ ble readings pertaining to Easter and a play by our tiny tots. It was well attended and all en­ joyed a dainty lunch and Christian fellowship as the evening ended.

WINTER YOUTH RETREAT

PRAIRIE ROSE: On a blustery afternoon, February 24, thirty-five young people met at our church to register for the annual winter retreat. After a two-hour drive we arrived at Moose Lake Camp in a flurry of snow, sleep­ ing bags and anticipation. Vern Ratzlaff, Ex­ ecutive Director of MCC Manitoba, who had joined our group, introduced the first evening with a presentation on "separation-the Church IN the world but not OF the world." His timely talk confronted us with the urgency of separating from the sin of the world, rather than from the people of the world. Remaining sessions dealt with such current issues as the Church's involvement in the social/political structure; the Christian's responsibility of being a signpost always pointing toward Jesus; how Jesus' example of friendship to sinners must affect our own at­ titude in a society of gays, pushers, and other "unlovables."

new concern and a fresh vision of our responsibility. God help us to be faithfull

Barb Plett

ROSENORT: On February 12 the EMC churches of our community were privileged to have SBI personnel with us. In our church Rev. Harvey Plett had the sermon in the mor­ ning service. He dug deeply into the full con­ tent of John 3:16.

The afternoon rally saw all young people and SBI alumni from our area meet, eat and share with the SBI staff and students that had come out. I guess you could call it an adver­ tising campaign. The concert that followed in the evening put the "icing on the cake." The SBI ladies' chorus, the "Children of Light" singing group and the school's music directors all had their part to present, and it was an enjoyable, worthwhile effort, a blessing to the hearers. Rev. Arden Thiessen had the message. February 26 proved to be another blessed day for us. Rev. Ernie Loewen of Pleasant Valley brought us a lengthy message that mor­ ning (his first in our church), but nobody went to sleep and (hopefully) no one wished he would stop! He text was from Jeremiah 48:11,12 and his topic,"Make or Break." A hunger for revival became apparent in the speaker and in the hearers alike.

That evening CSSM missionary, Agnes Friesen, reported on their work in the Swan Lake area of Manitoba and her co-worker, Frieda Johnson, entertained the children with a "parable" of the trees. Also, Ed and Joy Loewen related how the Lord had led in their lives to the point where both became willing to serve in the Moslem country of Pakistan. A quiz on the Islamic religion and a few slides from the Loewens' prospective field helped to give us a better view of their assignment. The group from our church that took part in the Caribbean Child Care Tour from March 110 consisted of Benny Friesens (who also visited Belize), Edwin Duecks, P.K. Kroekers, John B. Loewens, Amanda Loewen and Mr. H. R. Friesen. All reported having a blessed, meaningful tour, even the tour leader, Edwin Dueck, who found himself in the strange predicament of being recruited to serve as bestman at a Haitian wedding. This contact later brought glory to God when the native couple's friend rededicated her life to Christ. Since returning from Haiti, Sister Amanda Loewen has broken a bone in her foot and will not be back at her nursing job for a while yet.

Saturday morning broke upon us with the tranquil beauty of a winter morning in the woods. A strong feeling of wonder at God's creation swept over me as we shared our mor­ ning meal in view of a sparkling, snowy world. Surely we are a privileged people!

A most meaningful part of the retreat was the time of sharing on Saturday evening. Problems, joys and concerns were openly shared and prayed about. This beautiful hour of closeness seerned^ to ^hjghlight the weekend. Praise the Lord for Christian friends and fellowship! We trust that all who were able to participate in this retreat have captured a

SBI DAY

Abe B. Eidses, Henry K. Duecks, and Pete K. Friesen took part in the MDS meeting in Phoenix, Arizona and they too report of blessings received.

Rev. Menno Kroeker recently made a twoweek visit to Aylmer, Ontario where he had a Bible teaching ministry. The following were received into "ac­

tive" membership at the Prairie Rose EMC on March 19, 1978?Mr."and Mrs. Albert Plett (left), Mrs .Ken Plett (rear, center), Mr. and Mrs. Waldo Neufeld (front). Pastor Edwin Plett (rear, right) is seen with them.

The four local EMC churches had a united prayer fellowship in our church on March 22. This was in preparation for the revival crusade in April with Leslie Hamm, Tom Allen and the Henry Teichroebs of the Canadian Revival Fellowship. We would be happy if other churches and individuals would also pray for our area at this time.

PAGE 13 MARCH 31, 1978

Historical Flashback Our First Jugendverein by Peter J. B. Reimer When we speak of a Jugendverein we do not mean quite the same thing as Young People's today. It was called Christian Endeavor, and was, of course, oriented towards the young people, although the elderly were taking part to a certain extent too. The Kleine Gemeinde, now LM.C. had traditionally frowned upon any such modern innova­ tions in their church. The teaching of the Bible in their church elementary schools, Sunday morning worship and brotherhood meetings were supposed to do the job, in ad­ dition to the proper upbringing of the children in the homes. However, the loss of the church private school and the restrictions, particularly of the teaching of the German language, together with the teaching of the Bible and the Mennonite Catechism, began to worry many of the members in the early and mid-twenties. In the fall of 1925 I came to the community of Prairie Rose, now known usually as Landmark, to teach in the Linden School. The new school was not built until a year later so I started off teaching in the old church building. I was still single and stayed at the home of Rev. H. R. Reimer, my first cousin. We became very close friends because we saw things in regards to education and spiritual development pretty much the same way. With his approval I started singing practice with the young people, which led to some special programs during the winter. The need for this proved itself when both young and middle-aged people from both the Holdeman and the Kleine Gemeinde in the community attended and par­ ticipated in these activities. The next fall, again with the approval of Rev. H. R. Reimer, the leading minister of the Kleine Gemeinde at Prairie Rose, I called a meeting at our church of all the people interested in organizing a Jugendverein, on November 20, 1926. About 30 people, mostly young peo­ ple from the two different churches, were present and voted unanimously to establish a Jugendverein. The following constitution was also adopted: 1. The name was to be Prairie Rose Jugendverein. 2. The aim was to be to support the building of the Kingdom of God, not to build up something personal, but to assist in the preaching of the old gospel. This society, therefore, shall not work for one special church, but for all Christian churches; yes, for all Christianity. 3. Membership: Everybody who is 14 years or older, and who lives a good moral life, can become a member of the organization. It is the duty of every member to support the society to the best of their ability in word and deed. Every member has one vote. Every member must either sign his or her name in the register or have it written in. 4. Officials: The Program Committee shall name a chair­ man for each session. The secretary is to be elected an­ nually, and is a member of the Program Committee. 5. Three committees, a Program Committee, a Membership Committee and a Welcome Committee, of three members each, one of whom must be a female, were to be elected annually. The secretary is to be the third member of the Program Committee. Nobody can be a member in more than one committee. The duty of the Program Committee is to plan a good Christian program for each session. The duty of the Membership Committee is to solicit as many new members as possible, presented at PAGE 14

a session, and then only become members by a majority vote. The duties of the Welcome Committee are to provide for a suitable meeting place, heated and lighted properly, and also to look after the seating accom­ modations.

6. As to the number and time of sessions the Society is to determine this at their regular sessions. 7. Amendments shall only be adopted with a two-thirds majority and then only be applied at the next session. First Amendment; There is to be an offering at z each ses­ sion to pay for expenses, and for any other contribution the, members decide on. The Secretary shall also be the treasurer. After the constitution was adopted the elections of the Committees was undertaken. Program Committee: Peter J. B. Reimer, Secretary­ treasurer; Peter Wohlgemut; Mary D. Reimer. Membership Committee: Mrs. P. Wohlgemut; Jacob Fast; C. K. Plett. Welcome Committee: P. D. Reimer; John D. Reimer; Mrs Jacob Fast. The first session was held December 19, 7:00 p.m. From that time a session was to be held every three weeks on a Sunday evening. Within a short time there were 65 members registered. They were: Mr. and Mrs. P. J. B. Reimer, Mr. and Mrs. C.K. Plett, Mr. and Mrs. P.P. Wohlgemut, Mr. and Mrs. P.D. Reimer, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. M. Wiebe, Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Fast, Mr. and Mrs. Jacob F. Reimer, Mr and Mrs. H.D. Reimer, Mr. and Mrs. P.M. Penner, Mr and Mrs. Jacob T. Reimer, Mr. and Mrs. David F. Penner, Mr. and Mrs. Peter A. Plett, P.P. Giesbrecht, Marie P. Giesbrecht, Abe Penner, Mary D. Reimer, John D. Reimer, Abe Friesen, Neil P. Dueck, B.D. Reimer, F.D. Reimer, David P. Reimer, Alfred Friesen, Mr. Abr. D. Reimer, Mrs. A.D. Reimer, Tina Penner, Tina Giesbrecht, Esther Giesbrecht, Susie Friesen, Maggie P. Plett, Annie L. Giesbrecht, Sophie Baiuck, Agnes Baiuck, Carolyn Penner, Agnes G. Toews, Annie B. Koop, Lena B. Koop, Augustie Goertzen, Marie S. Reimer, Martha G. Toews, Martin G. Penner, Walter F. Penner, Catherine B. Giesbrecht, Elsie E. Toews, Neta F. Reimer, Frank P. Plett, Ben L. Giesbrecht, Pete Reimer, Hein Kroeker, Susan Plett, Justina Goertzen, Maria E. Toews. Although the German language was used almost ex­ clusively at every session the young people of the whole community were very much interested. Two young girls from a Ukrainian family also became members, having acquired some German at the Public School. The sessions were all held in the Kleine Gemeinde Church. In the summer of 1927 I moved back to Steinbach with my first wife and our one-month-old son Al. On the first Sunday in July, after our arrival, I was elected superinten­ dent of the Kleine Gemeinde Sunday School, and that way immediately became involved in the educational and spiritual efforts with the young people in the Kleine Gemeinde of Steinbach. Within a short time we had a choir and a Jugendverein. Then we proceeded to arouse an active interest in the Bible School and mission activities. To Cod be the glory. THE MESSENGER

GUIDELINES FOR WISE GIVING The NIB is a nonprofit service for contributors. It was founded in 1918. Its objec­ tives are to maintain sound standards in national philanthropy and to advise and protect contributors. Recently the NIB sent a Wise Giving Bulletin which sets the stan­ dards by which they judge charitable organizations. Much of the following is quoted from the Bulletin. 1. Board. The organization should have an active and responsible governing body, serving without compensation, holding regular meetings, and with effective ad­ ministrative control. The board should not include paid staff among its voting members, a minimum of three evenly spaced meetings should be held each year by the board and/or executive committee, and an average attendance at meetings should be at least the majority of voting members. 2. Purpose. The organization should have a legitimate purpose with no avoidable duplication of work of other sound organizations. 3. Program. The organization should have reasonable management efficiency with adequate material and personnel resources to carry on its stated program together with reasonable administration and fund-raising expense. The concept of reasonableness applies to fund-raising costs and to the amount of assets that a charitable organization may accumulate. 4. Cooperation. There should be consultation and cooperation with established agencies in the same and related fields. Organizations should know or find out what services others are providing in their field before they undertake new and expensive programs. 5. Fund-Raising Practice, (a) No payment of commissions for fund raising, (b) No mailing of unordered tickets or merchandise with a request for money in return, (c) No general telephone solicitation of the public, (d) No use of identified government employees in solicitation of the public. Payments to professional fund raisers or for fund-raising counsel should be on a fee basis for the actual work performed. 7. Audit. Annual audit employing Uniform Accounting Standards and prepared by an independent certified public accountant, showing all Support/Revenue and Ex­ penses in reasonable detail. Audited financial statements of an organization should be available upon request. 8. Budget. Detailed annual budget, consistent with the Uniform Accounting Standards employed in the audit report, translating program plans into financial terms. The budget should be approved by the controlling Board of the organization; it is always subject to the availability of funds and may be revised by the Board. There are a lot of charitable organizations — both worthy and unworthy — who are asking for our help. I am glad that there is an organization like NIB that helps us evaluate them. Vernon R. Wiebe General Secretary

Somelimes one becomes aware that people would appreciate some guidelines for wise giving. The following pointers come from a Mennonite Brethren Missions/Ser­ vices Newsletter and signed by Vernon R. IViebe, General Secretary. His source of in­ formation is the National Information Bureau which was founded in 1918. Ed.

MARCH 31, 1978

PAGE 15

Around the World THE LAW OF RELIGIOUS LIBERTY UNDER REFORM First Meeting of the Confessions with Director General of Religious Affairs. Representatives of the majority of the religious confessions and spiritual movements existing in Spain met on Friday, January 13, 1978 in the Minstry of Justice with the Director General of Religious Affairs, Eduardo Zulueta. A second meeting is to be held on February 20. The representatives of the different con­ fessions represented the majority of the 260 institutions of a religious character that are ^..K. registered with the Ministry of Justice. One representative from the Catholic Church attended. The spokesman for the Commission of Spanish Evangelicals, Jose Cardona, said following the meeting, "The meeting has been positive and promising because it is another example of the change of State language that is eliminating the divisions between Spaniards for motives of religion. This first step causes optimism... I hope that the spirit evidenced today will be lasting." Apart from defining what shall be the new norms for religious liberty in Spain, the different confessions shall state their concepts of liberty for religious education and liberty in general; they are /for education J 1 .1... to present facts to work out a definition of church, to avoid the situations that resulted when the Religious Liberty Law of 1967 was approved, and many churches refused to constitute _____________ __________”. themselves as "Associations '"iduardo ZuluetaT'the Director General, stated, "in a law of religious liberty, the liberty should be included as a right, not one which is given but one which is acknowledged.” (M.B. News Service)

A NEW CONSTITUTION FOR SPAIN A new constitution is being written for Spain aiiu and iiiaiiy many formerlavvs lawsoic areupupiv/iforicvi reviupaiii Sion and study. One is the law of religious ' ■ in • 1976. ----- --In January • ■ J liberty approved a meeting took place in the Ministry of Justice with many representatives to prepare a new law. It received TV coverage and three daily papers in Madrid covered the proceedings. The reports from the meeting are favorable. Mr. Ernie Friesen has translated an article from the daily El Pais.

PROJECT NORTH The Presbyterian Church in Canada has discontinued its support of Project North, the interchurch group that works with native peo­ ple. The decision to stop its financial support and participation in the sometimes controver­ sial work of Project North was made by the Presbyterian board of world mission ex­ ecutive. However, the Rev. Edward Johnson, who has represented the Presbyterians on the Project North support team, says the question

PAGE 16

THE MESSENGER

could be reconsidered when the whole board meets in March. The United Church, Anglican, Lutheran, Roman Catholic, Mennonite and Presbyterian Churches formed the Project North Coalition two years ago.

RESTHAVEN ANNUAL MEETING Resthaven annual meeting took place at the Steinbach E.M. Church on Monday February 6. The financial statement revealed that the whole Resthaven operation is becoming quite a large concern. The budget last year ran well over $400,000. It was also revealed that all 66 beds were taken. There were 10 admissions, seven deaths and three moved out in 1977. Further to this the administrator reported that the addition to the lounge had not been granted, the reason being that the present building may have to be replaced shortly. Permission was receiv­ ed that additional apartment units could be built. This gendered quite a lengthy discussion. The result was that the board is going to make investigation. Provincial Employment Program (PEP) grant enabled a good bit of pain­ ting to be done. Margaret Peters tendered her resignation as head nurse. Another one has been hired. One couple, lac H.W. Reimer, celebrated their ---------------------------------------------------------------Editorial. . . . from page .5 James is concerned over people in his time who made a distinction between the rich and the poor (James 2:2:4) and queries, "Are ye not then partial in yourselves and become judges of evil thoughts?" We need to be careful here because the poor man we reject might be one who nevertheless is rich in faith , L * / L. I * _J and an heir of the kingdom (James 2:5). A leaglistic too narrow interpretation of Scripture may be another reason why we do not accept one another. Such a case, I think is meant by Paul in Romans 14:1 when he counsels, "Him that is weak in the faith receive ye but not to doubtful disputations." Here the issue clearly is with external things as the eating of "all things” as over against the one who eats herbs. In today's language I think this clearly reveals that there is a certain area where we are to exercise tolerance and forbearance lest we become guilty of judging,

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60th wedding anniversary. Board members Albert Friesen, Kleefeld and Henry A Reimer, Steinbach were re-elected into the board. The annual general meeting of Resthaven falls later on in Spring. A suggestion was made that maybe there should be thinking of making this a banquet type of meeting. This also is to be looked into. Chairing the meeting was board chair­ man Levi Schellenberg of Kleefeld.

TEACHERS WANTED The high school department of the Steinbach Bible Institute re­ quires qualified teachers for the year 1978-79 to teach in the follow­ ing subject areas: ■ English ■ German ■ Social Sciences ■ Librarian ■ Physical Education Send your application and a resume' to Mr. Harvey Plett, Box 1420, Steinbach, Man. ROA 2 AO. This may manifest itself in many different ways. I understand there was a time when marrying outside of our particular denomina­ tion was cause enough to put a person off the church roll. I believe another hopeful sign of accep­ tance is when we check the announcements of baptisms in the Messenger and see other than the traditional Mennonite names. Maybe this receiving one another, in a sense, could also be applied to showing hospitality to those who come to our church as visitors. It is said that first impressions are lasting. A genuine, warm welcome to strangers might just be enough to bring them back. I believe all of us who have visited in other churches on travels, etc. could relate of experiences in this area, some good and maybe some not so good. But before we find fault with others we should first see how good we are at it. — DKS

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