The Messenger August 17, 1979

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VANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE

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NO. 17Wl^^AuC|. Aug. 17/7S 17/79

VOL. 17 NO. 17

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• 1979 Ministerial Retreat

• Missionaries Leave

Although our background is “the quiet of the land” we are at the same time com­ mitted to meeting the total needs of man including spiritual, physical, emotional and social. How well do we score on each? What about physical action as related to emotions? He maintained that in Scrip­ ture physical action was often related to emotions and attitudes (Psalms 4:4, 6:6, 7; 16:8,9; 149:3; 150) He cautions though that “we need to be careful to find ap­ propriate physical action to symbolize our attitudes and emotions.” Spirited singing at the 7979 EMC Ministerial Retreat; under the leadership of Harry Neufeld.

Worship

Theme at 1979 EMC Ministerial Retreat

1979 was the year for another ministers' retreat. Invited were ministers, deacons and their wives. The theme, developed in three topics, was “Worship.” “Many go to a worship service,” said Art Neufeld, the first speaker, “and never worship!” To properly worship he felt we needed to know three things: 1) who we are, 2) what we ought to be and 3) what we will be. He went on to emphasize that we are created by God, above all other creatures, for praise, glory and fellowship. This fact will also enhance the self-worth of man. We should not think of ourselves as of no worth or despise ourselves. The topic was followed by a group dis­ cussion. Maybe the person who said, “My total life is a worship,” summed it up well. Ed Friesen, Kleefeld, Man., presented a paper on “Emotions and Music in Worship.” To start out with Brother Friesen main­ tained that God has made us emotional beings which implies that emotions are normal and good. Emotions are our

response to our environment as we perceive it. They are subjective personal experiences that can be triggered but not predicted. Our inhibitions to a display of emotions in our worship may be for various reasons according to Mr. Friesen: — afraid of inappropriate excesses — afraid of inappropriate responses — afraid of “mindless worship” He also believes that emotions give character to life. They make people provide some of their uniqueness. Music he believes is not a tool to get us into the mood of worship but rather an expression of it. “Our selection of music is often based on pious pregnatism rather than a serious look at the underlying theology or philosophy of the song. “Worship embraces our whole life response to our God,” said the speaker. “To worship God is to live a life worthy of Him and that reflects His work of grace in our hearts.” He further stated that “worship isn’t a mood to be worked up by techniques of meditation or mass hysteria. Worship arises through the work of God’s Spirit as we listen to Jesus and look to Jesus.”

Small group discussion on two questions posed by Brother Friesen con­ cluded this session. 1. Is there a real need for more emotional expression in our worship? 2. What symbolic forms can you think of that would enhance worship? On question one answers varied. We should not try to impose symbolism. Maybe it could be developed in small groups. On question two some answers were: 1) Lifting of hands, 2) Kneeling, 3) Shaking hands, 4) Action Choruses, 5) Holding hands. The final paper was presented by Harvey Plett. He spoke on “Corporate Worship.” The session began with dividing into small groups to answer two questions. 1. Why do you go to church on Sunday morning? 2. What part of the morning service do you find most worshipful? Some sample answers to question one were: 1. To hear what God will say to me 2. Fellowship with believers 3. Habit 4. Obedience 5. 1 am expected to 6. A good example 7. To be a blessing to others 8. To enjoy the Word of God 9. Tradition 10. To worship ^*7

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Small group discussions at the EMC Ministerial Retreat. THE MESSENGER

Retreat Committee; Frank Friesen, Pleasant Valley; Diedrich Friesen, Treesbank; Gladwin Plett, Winnipeg. (They did a good job!)

Whether something happens at mor­ ning worship, according to Harvey, depends on both the leader and the par­ ticipant. However he also proposed that maybe we could change the order of worship from time to time. Some items mentioned were: 1) Unison reading, 2) Silent meditation, 3) Saying the Lord’s Prayer and 4) Testimonies. He also feels we should be tolerant of various bodily as well as emotional ex­ pressions and focus on the greatness of God. The communion message on Sunday morning was delivered by Harvey Plett on the theme of the great commandment (Mark 12:28-34 and Matthew 22:35-38). He i— first of all showed the loopholes of biLUdiimi CV..1VO ethics definition wx of .„,x. love situation (“whatever vou'do ouVof love isHght!’’)^. This love he said is rooted in selfishness and self-centeredness. “But our love,” he said, “is not self-generated but from God.” / think this one is doser! (Playing 1. How are we to love God? horseshoe) - keep His commandments (John 14:15; 1 John 5:2) - love the brethren (1 John 4:12)

Some answers to question two were: 1. The singing 2. The message 3. It depends how the heart is tuned 4. The organ prelude (sometimes) 5. Teaching a Sunday School class 6. Comment: Does preparation maybe ..... than ...V... we ... think? play a bigger role Mr Plett ended his presentation by posing the question “W’ho should participate in the service? 1. Believers? 2. Children? 3. Unbelievers? xv.v that the V..V. morningp, worshipp serHe felt vice is not our evangelistic outreach. “I preach to believers” (not exclusively though). He also believes that children should be in the worship service. He believed this because they are part of the family of God. Maybe there should be a part for them, children’s item.

I wonder how many cups of coffee John Plett (Treesbank) served?

- love our neighbour 2. Consequences of this kind of love - it eliminates fear (1 John 4:18) - it gives assurance (1 John 3:14, 15) Communion service followed the message. A time of sharing took place after communion. Song leading throughout the retreat was done by Harry Neufeld who deserves credit for making the singing meaningful and inspirational and worshipful. He also jed two volunteer singing groups, one ladies’ and one men’s choir. The location of this year’s retreat Pente­ costal Campgrounds at Ninette) was a Con t'd. on page 11

^5^ a Musically-^ Speaking flyOon Thwssew

Hymnal Review Hymns for the Family of God; Fred Bock, editor; Paragon Associates, Inc.; 1976.

The hymnal contains the following approximate propor­ tions of the various types of songs: Total number of songs 509; Total number of readings - 190; 1) Hymns - 25%; 2) Chorales - 10%; 3) Traditional Gospel - 35%; 4) Contem­ porary Gospel -15%; 5) Folk -10%; 6) Choruses, Responses, Amens, etc. - 5%. Although the table of contents is organized with different topics than we have traditionally seen, i.e. 1) God’s Love for Us, 2) Our Love for God, 3) Our Love for the Family of God, and 4) Our Love for Others, the usual sub topics are includ­ ed. Indexes include 1) Scriptural allusions in hymns, 2) Topical index of hymns and 3) Alphabetical index of titles and first lines of hymns. The book has a Scriptural index of readings, an alphabetical index of readings, and an alphabetical index of authors for the readings. Other index­ es often included in a hymnal are published in the Hymnal Companion which redeems the company from the accusa­ tion that they slipped up on important work. This compa­ nion would also include other background material on hymns in the book. Topics from the table of contents are printed on each page for quick reference. This hymnal has introduced some unique features in the general layout of the book. Readings, which are usually at the end of a hymnbook, have been interspersed throughout the book between hymns of the same topical theme. The readings are comprised of Scripture and thoughts by con­ temporary writers. The readings do indicate that con­ siderable thought and imagination has gone into the typesetting. Prose is set as prose; poetry as poetry; some

Letters REFUGEE SPONSORSHIP GOING AHEAD Thank you for the encouraging editorial in the last Messenger regarding refugee sponsorship. It might interest you to know that about 650 refugees in Manitoba are being sponsored by 80 congregations and groups under MCC’s umbrella agreement with the government. Of these, 14 are E.M.C. congregations or related, spon­ soring about 130 people. God’s people still respond! Vem Ratzlaff Executive Director MCC (Manitoba) LAUDS CONCERN FOR REFUGEES

The Messenger has recently published several articles on the involvement of the MCC in aiding refugees in various parts of the world (“Spreading the Resources Around the World” by Harold Jantz, Feb. 2, 1979; and “Refugee Sponsorship

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readings are responsive; Psalm 24 has the text ascending and descending rather than crossing the page from left to right; light and dark print for resonsive reading has been eliminated. Although this hymnal is more innovative than some, several of the features are not an improvement: having verses numbered in each staff and italicizing alternate stanzas gives a cluttered appearance. Beaming continuous eighth notes might be better for the instrumentalist but not necessarily for the singer; in vocal music the grouping of notes should suit the words as well as the time signature of the piece. Features that could be useful to choirs are the descants for numerous pieces and alternate last verse har­ monizations for the pianist and/or organist. The hymnal has clear, average-size printing and is available in four colours. The book is larger and heavier than almost any other hymnal now available. The price is about $6.50 per copy. Biases of the editorial staff are evident as soon as you see the book. The idea for the title is obviously from a song. The Family of God, written by Gaither (who is on the staff). A large balance, however, of the book is quite acceptable, giv­ ing a variety that is necessary in a church hymnal. The features which the company advertises and which are in some cases unique will be useful only if the congregation is willing to incorporate new material and procedures into their worship service. The publishing company has attempted to print a book that is more than just a hymnal but also a worship and devotional manual. If utilized in these various ways the features can be worthwhile. The buyer should realize that he is not buying over 700 songs, but about 500 songs and about 200 readings. In terms of music this is less than you get in most hymnals. Interestingly, this hymnal has a section on brotherhood and world peace. The songs on baptism are not on baptism per se but more songs of obedience and consecration. This hymnal could be a good hymnal for a church that would utilize the features not ordinarily found in other hymnals. If the leaders in the church are not willing to do so another hymnal would be just as useful.

Program” by Waldo Neufeld, Mar. 30, 1979).It is most encouraging to see that the Mennonite churches are concerned and are actively involved in alleviating the plight of the world’s refugees, a plight that is becoming more serious and more urgent with each passing day. If the 20th century can be referred to as “A Century of Refugees,” perhaps 1979 can be called the “Year of Refugees.” It is estimated that there are approximately 12 million dispossessed people throughout the world today (equal to one half the population of (Canada). Nowhere in the world does the seriousness of the refugee problem take on the proportions of those in Southeast Asia where approximately 65,000 people a month are fleeing Viet­ nam alone. The plight of the so-called boat people, the 250,000 floating refugees in the waters of the South China Sea, is without precedent in the history of mankind. Since the beginning of 1979 over 55,000 refugees have been towed out to the high seas by Malaysian naval ships and the 76,000 people crammed into the Con I'd. on page 11

CONTRIBUTORS: For our lead article we are featuring a brief account of the 1979 Ministerial Retreat. We trust you will find the presentation in­ spirational, as the retreat was to many. The ar­ ticle and pictures are by the editor.

Kiltie Flink Wiebe (p. 12) is a veteran author and columnist whose work frequently appears in Mennonite periodicals. She is literature co­ ordinator at the Mennonite Brethren Board of Christian literature and teaches English and Journalism at Tabor Oillege, Hillsboro, Kan­ sas. Wiilter Rvimer and his wife, Margaret, (Mennville) are missionaries with the EMC Board of Missions in Paraguay. Evelyn Biirkniati (Prairie Rose) is with the Gospel Missionary Union in Mali, Africa. The Elmer Biirknianx (Arden) are home on furlough from Venezuela where they are serving under the New Tribes Mission.

Cover Photo: A scene in front of the chapel during the 1979 Ministerial Retreat. Note our sequence of numbers this issue: Vol. 17, No. 17, Aug. 17!

THE MESSENGER

From the Editor Guest Editorial

Can You Tell the Difference?

4

ot all people are unhappy without Christ," said the speaker. How's that again? My brief nap was over. "Not all people are unhappy without Christ. For them Christ is not the answer, for they aren't asking the question." But they've got to be unhappy. My reaction was almost a mental knee-jerk. Why do we sing, "I'm so happy and here's the reason why..."? They just think they're happy. We know they really aren't. . . About 61 percent of the people we surveyed in a large city said they had a sense of purpose, a positive self­ concept, and found joy and fulfillment in vocation and family," continued the speaker. "Loneliness was not a problem. They weren't interested in sex outside of marriage, and didn't listen to hard rock. They had no guilt over life. So what difference should Christ make in their lives?" The speaker was James Engel, author of Whatever Happened to the Harvest?, at a Christian communications seminar in Fresno. Engel said it's impossible to reach all people with the same evangelistic strategy because people have different felt needs. And some feel no need of Christ, so to expect an immediate decision from them is out of the question. For these people he suggested a strategy of Christian presence — simply being there with a kingdom lifestyle, so that when such people experience a crisis (death, illness, etc.), they have seen the difference Christ makes and someone is around to help them. Others may be ready to become Christ-followers, having been made aware of the Gospel earlier, so communication prepared for them must be different from that prepared for the totally satisfied per­ son or for a Christian audience. The matter of felt needs came up often that day, mostly because communicators don't take them into considera­ tion enough when they prepare radio and television scripts, or write and preach. Some assume everyone can be reached with the same kind of message. Engel said, "The audience is sovereign and the message must be adapted without sacrifice of biblical fidelity if it is to have relevance." When the Gospel is not made relevant to felt needs, it is screened out. Some switch the knob on religious broadcasting or never pick up a piece of literature which comes from a religious press.

How much does one adapt in order to meet felt needs of the audience, asked seminar participants. When 1 was in India, a national church leader mentioned his country needs Christian writers who can write for a secular audience to make them aware of the Gospel. The same need exists here in America. Yet such writers have a dif­ ficult time, because they are pressured to conform to orthodox Christian writing — to meet the needs of church members. Religious broadcasting has a similar problem. Because people support with finances those religious progams they like to listen to, the content is often determined by what the supporters enjoy, rather than the felt needs of a secular audience. The need seems to be for people who are big enough to pay for what doesn't particularly meet their need. Adaptation of message to felt needs of audience produced many questions. Is there such a thing as a minimal Gospel? What part does the Holy Spirit play in proclamation? In adaptation, is it necessary to artificially create a need for the Gospel the way advertisers create a need for a new product? How do you market a Gospel when the marks of the Gospel are not marketable with sex appeal, promise of prestige, and the good life? Christ promised a cross. Has a person become a Christian unless he knows the full im­ plications of the Gospel? Reference was made to the Americanized, popularized version of evangelical Christianity, which expects little of a convert except a decision and offers fame and fortune. The trend, said Engel, is an emphasis on church growth and away from evangelism, for evangelism and dis­ cipleship are on a continuum. One is impossible without the other, for all persons who are effectively evangelized should end up as part of a body of Christ. Evangelism which does not have this as part of its strategy is not a com­ plete program. But as the seminar continued, I returned to the first question: What difference should Christ make in the life of a contented, fulfilled, moral individual in modern American society? Happiness is not an answer. Heaven or hell some day is not an answer either for the person who has dismissed this notion long ago with trikes and sand­ boxes. If you want the answer, ask your family or friends. Katie Funk Wiebe

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

AUGUST 17, 1979

PAGE 5

Missions VENEZUELA

MALI, AFRICA

VICTORIES IN SPITE OF DIFFICULTIES

FOREVER TOO LATE No opporfiiiiifg to bear

Froicb Bible Cutups

Guzmancito was a Panare Indian, born and raised in the jungles of Venezuela, When the Prices first moved into this village and started to learn their language he was a big help. When they finally got to the place where they could give the people short stories on tape he did what he could to help. He showed every sign of becoming a believer as soon as the mis­ sionaries would be able to clearly present to them the way of salvation. One day Guzmancito, together with some other Panare men and their wives, went on an extended trip to hunt wild pig and tapir. They came across some wild honey, and while Guzmancito was eating some a large overhead branch broke off and fell on the back of his head. He fell over instantly and died almost right away. The missionaries were so close to being able to share with the Panares the good news of salvation yet for this man it was forever too late. He died without ever having the opportunity to accept Christ as his personal Saviour. What a tragic fact! Yet everyday many, many people like Guzmancito are passing into a Christless eternity because they have never heard that Christ died on the cross for their sins. What if God had allowed you or me to be born into Guzmancito’s village and we would have gone the same way he went? Would we think it was fair that no one had ever come to tell us of God’s love? Could it be that there will be people eternally separated from God because you have been too concerned about your own way of life and not con­ cerned enough about others? God has given to us the message of reconciliation (2 Cor. 5:19). He has given us the power to be witnesses to those that are lost (Acts 1:8). Christ does not want anyone to be lost but wants everyone to be saved before it is too late (2 Peter 3:9). How will they hear unless someone is willing to go and tell them? (Rom. 10:14). God loved the world so much that He gave His own Son to die on the cross. The Apostle Paul said that the love of God constrained him to live for the one who died for him. Is God’s love constraining you to fulfill the respon­ sibility he has given us in proclaiming the message of eternal life? Elmer Barkman

It is very quiet here after three busy weeks packed with people and activity. I am glad to get back to my desk and much needed work on the Girls’ School materials, but will miss all the bustle and happy noise.

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We had two weeks of French Bible camps here on the Bible school campus at Mana. There were at least 80 campers and staff at each of the camps. During the first week we had many non-Christian Cotit'd. ov piige 8

Mission Grams Brazil Marvin Thiessen reports on a good trip back to Brazil. While on furlough prices have increased substantially in the country. He also mentions that the government has granted a few hundred visas to missionaries recently.

Venezuela Phyllis Penner is involved in a special evangelism campaign. The evangelical churches in the area where she lives are cooperating in this outreach. She reports that there have been good results.

Nigeria The Elmer Warkentins are very busy with teaching Bible Knowledge. Elmer reports that there is a real need for more teachers expecially in the area of Bible Knowledge. Their youngest daughter, Karlene, is experiencing an eye problem which might necessitate surgery. Will you pray? Mexico The annual youth conference was held on July 28 and 29 at Santo Tomas. Due to technical difficulties with the plane the invited speaker was not able to be present. The Lord's blessings were experienced and several youth made rededications. There were also some first-time commitments. Dave Eidses experienced a fairly good trip on their return to Mexico. They now have bi-weekly evening services at Camp 67. This community has also requested a teacher.

Nicaragua The national EMC of Nicaragua is involved in feeding 445 families in areas where the churches are located. Florencio Arguello and Lester Olfert are directing these relief ef­ forts. EMC (Canada) is providing the funds needed to carry out this program. CEPAD, a national Nicaragua relief organization, has a program to feed 50,(X)0 families. MCC is actively involved in providing funds and food for the relief efforts of Mennonite. Brethren in Christ, and CEPAD. Lester Olfert has informed us that normalization is slowly taking place in the midst of the war-devastated situation. There is much that needs to be done in the area of relief and reconstruction. It is expected that Darlene Olfert and children and Doris Friesen will be returning to Nicaragua on August 25. Wilbert Friesen plans to go to Nicaragua for three or four weeks on August 24. Designated gifts for Nicaragua relief and reconstruction may be forwarded to: Nicaragua Relief and Reconstruction, EMC Board of Missions, Box 1268, Steinbach, Man.

Language School Doug and Sandra Doerksen, and Ernie and Mary Ann Loewen, are enrolled in Spanish language studies at the Rio Grande Bible Institute in Edinburg, Texas. Helen Koop has returned for the second semester of language studies. Furlough Edna Penner (Ridgewood) returned recently from Paraguay for furlough. Elsie and Ernest Funk and three daughters (Wymark) arrived in Winnipeg on August 2 from Paraguay.

THE MESSENGER

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AUGUST 17, 1979

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Cont'd. from paye 6 campers. Even though they enjoyed the activities and paid close attention in classes, the staff was kept on their toes trying to control some of the more un­ wholesome and rowdy activities going on during free time. It was a privilege to meet with eight Malien colleagues, morning and after­ noon, to pray for these young people. So, in spite of difficulties, there were vic­ tories: — 4,000 FM ($10.00, a fortune here) stolen from a girl’s suitcase at the begin­ ning of the week was returned the last day. — A girl, who had a severe seizure, was again “accepted” by the campers in spite of their terror of evil spirits. This provid­ ed a good opportunity to demonstrate and teach the power of Christ over Satan. — Several seriously ill campers responded quickly to treatment. — Eight young people committed their lives to Christ in spite of the fact that this was not a popular thing to do. The second camp, for younger students, was totally different. Many of these had been in contact with Christians before and so were ready to make a decision

when the opportunity was given; 41 came to Christ! Katharine Kroeker (Bible translator), Treva Geiger (midwife) and I would appreciate your “co-labour” in prayer. Evelyn Barkman PARAGUAY

IN THE NAME OF CHRIST Ouch, that hurts! Nimia Rivero was playing happily with her friends at school. Suddenly the paper she held in her hand fell into the pit. She jumped in to fetch it. A shriek of pain! Her friends quickly helped her out. “Ouch, that hurts ...” Her wailing con­ tinued on her truck ride to the clinic. They had cleaned up the schoolgrounds two weeks before. They had burned the dead grass in the pit. Several soaking rains had extinguished all evidence of fire. But she fell into the embers knee­ deep. Six days later they came to Campo 9. She had been crying all night. By now she was screaming. 'The Beachy Amish medical staff came over. She had to stay

LOEWEN, Ernie and Mary Ann

KROEKER, Pat

FIELD: Paraguay - EMC Board of Missions

FIELD: Japan - Japan Evangelical Mission

ADDRESS: Box 840, Edinburg, Texas 78539 (language studies)

ADDRESS;

HOME CHURCH: Pleasant Valley CHILDREN:

Faith

Crystelle,

for two weeks. A local official who taxied them there promised to pay for the medications. For seven more weeks her parents brought her to Campo 9 two or three times a week to change bandages. They came by bus from 30 kilometers away. Oh, those painful experiences! “Mbe’gue katu ...” she would wail as the kind nurse would try ever so gently to remove the well-soaked bandages. “What is she saying?” the nurse asked the mother. She is saying, “Slowly, slowly.” Out came the notebook to record another Guarani word. Finally it was done. “Opama,” was the response. “What did she say?” asked the nurse. “Now it’s finished,” was mamma’s reply. “How kind the nurse is!” was the father’s reaction when he related the episode to me, their taxi driver from Campo 9 to the clinic, three kilometers away. Loving, conscientious, competent medical attention given in the name of Christ means so much to the Paraguayans. “Be not weary in well doing,” says the Word of God. Walter Reimer

1-2-14

Shinkawa-cho,

Higashi

Kurume-shi,

Tokyo, Japan 180-03

Jennifer

Nicole,

Hannah

Rochelle, Monique Joyelle

HOME CHURCH; Prairie Rose

BIRTHDAY: August 8

BIRTHDAYS: Ernie - Nov. 18; Mary Ann - May 25; Faith -

Apr. 2; Jennifer - May 12; Monique - Oct. 16

COMMENCEMENT OF MISSIONARY SERVICE: 1979 MINISTRY: Teaching missionary children

ANNIVERSARY: Aug. 2 COMMENCEMENT OF MISSIONARY SERVICE; 1979 MINISTRY: Radio work Bible Verse: "Let my cry come before thee, O Lord; give me understanding according to thy word!" Psalm 119:169

Bible Verse: "And the Lord, he it is (hat doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dis­ mayed." Deut. 31:8

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Clip for your Mission Directory

THE MESSENGER

Messenger News

Five young men were baptized at the Treesbank E.M. Church on May 6. Left to right: Pastor Diedrich Friesen, Wayne Wiebe, Bradley Reimer, Dave Driedger, Rodney Reimer, Stanley Reimer, Ed Wiebe (deacon).

On June 24 eight young people were baptized and received into church membership at the Treesbank E.M. Church. Back row, left to right: Pastor Diedrich Friesen, Gari Brandt, Dennis Reimer, Mr. Ed Wiebe (deacon), Brian Reimer. Front row, left to right: Arlene Brandt, Betty Clark, Joanne Plett, Myrna Plett, Lynette Friesen. SPECIAL SERVICE FOR DEAF

Sod-turning ceremony at the Treesbank E.M. Church on June 17. SOD-TURNING CEREMONY Treesbank, Man.: God said. “Call unto me and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things which thou knowest not” (Jeremiah 33:3). The Treesbank congregation has been rais­ ing their voices in thanksgiving to the Lord since many of their young people committed their lives to Christ. In obedience to Him, many also were baptized and received into church membership. One baptismal service

AUGUST 17, 1979

was held on May 6 and another one on June 24. On June 17 Mrs. Dennis Friesen (formerly Margi Driedger of Dominion City) was accepted as a member of the Treesbank EMC. The evening of June 17 saw many gathered for a sod-turning ceremony. Again we praise God for blessing us so richly. Construction of the new addition is progressing very well. “The Lord reigneth, Blessed be the name of the Lord.”

Rosenort, Man.: On June 17 we had a special service during the morning worship hour. It featured our deaf friends from all over southeastern Manitoba including Winnipeg, Winkler, Blumenort and Steinbach. Of special interest was the poem by our own Dale Friesen and the message for Father’s Day by Reg Rempel, also a local youth. The sincerity of these people was very evident, speaking louder than words. The following week Rev. and Mrs. Dave Eidse presented to us the work at Camp 77, Mexico, via word and slides. It is a joy to hear of children and grown-ups finding the Lord out there. Rev. Ben Eidse brought the message at the morning service on June 24 and teamed up with Mrs. Eidse at mission night on July 29 to bring us some vivid word-pictures of the work of the Holy Spirit in Zaire. Again, it was gratifying to hear of God smashing hard hearts and healing broken ones. Vacation Bible School has again been taught at Lake Francis and at Miami, and the Living Fountain Bible Camp is being held the week of August 6-10 at Gimli. Much effort has been ex­ pended to teach the Word of God to many children. May that effort bring forth fruit, is our prayer. On July 22 Bro. John Derksen of MCC Manitoba presented to us the plight of the Vietnamese refugees. He also related what is alread.v being done b.v MCC and supporting churches to re-settle these homeless people. At our members’ meeting on August 1 we decided to sponsor several families and elected a com­ mittee to do the planning and co-ordinating. We hope the families that come will eventually accept Christ personally.

PAGE 9

SUCCESSFUL WEEK OF DVBS

Arden, Man.: On July 15 we had the oppor­ tunity to see and welcome back the Elmer Barkmans. Their presence reminded us of the times when we saw them regularly every/Sun­ day. Elmer gave a report in the morning and started to show slides in the afternoon. However, the bulb made it a short slide presen­ tation. We enjoyed their fellowship during the cold plate dinner. July 2,3 - 27 proved to be a successful week of DVBS. This year it was a joint effort with the Beautiful Plains Baptist Church, with our church hosting the program. A total of 60 students registered. There were five classes with teachers and assistants as follows: Pre­ Primary — Mrs. Sharon Plett (teacher), Lynal McCullough, Mrs. Leona Rempel (assistants); Primary — Mrs. Mary McCullough (teacher), Mrs. Betty Penner, Mrs. Agatha Wiebe, Mrs. Mary Unger, Mrs. Cecil Plett (assistants); Middler — Mrs. Margaret Plett (teacher), Mrs. Myrnie Kroeker (assistant); Junior — Mrs. Alice Plett (teacher), Mrs. Sandi Plett (assistant); Teens — Mrs. Martha Plett (also in charge of the singing). The main theme was “Wheeling Along God’s Way” To our knowledge one first-time deci­ sion was made. The Friday night program was well attend­ ed. Our captivating song was the theme song, “Wheels,” and a well-loved chorus, “SALVATION.” The classes individually presented songs and recited verses. Andy Penner, the Sunday school superintendent, spoke a few words, challenging the pupils to keep on learning. At the close of the program prizes and certificates were handed out. Some crafts were on display in the classrooms. We claim the promise that God’s Word will not return void.

MISSIONARIES LEAVING FOR FIELDS Ridgewood, Man.: Peter Pletts and their

three daughters are leaving for Nigeria to teach school for the MCC. The two older girls will have to be in a boarding school away from home. Katherine Penner is going to Belize as a teacher at King’s College, and Garry and Sharon Kornelsen with baby Donovan are leaving for the Bahamas. May the Lord richly bless them as they are labouring for Him in foreign fields, is our prayer for them. Mr. and Mrs. Peter P. D. Reimer celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on July 2. On July 15 Reuben Reimer was baptized upon the confession of his faith in Jesus Christ our Saviour. Edna Penner came home from her field of service, as a nurse in Paraguay, on July 22. Fred Buhler from High Level, Alberta is ser­ ving as a student pastor in our church for the summer months. The young people report having had a bless­ ed time at their annual retreat which was a camp-out this year at Lake Manitoba. They had Mr. Allan Friesen from Fort Garry as their speaker. It is also camp time again for the children, as well as for directors, counsellors, cooks, etc. A camp at Long Bow Lake, Ontario has been rented for this for several years now. May the seed that is sown in these young hearts grow and bear much fruit is our prayer.

PAGE 10

Mr. and Mrs. Isaac K. Plett of Land­ mark, Man. celebrated their Colden Wedding anniversary on June 3, 1979 (see July 20 issue of Messenger).

WHERE HAVE OUR YOUNG PEOPLE GONE

that her needs had been met before her depar­ ture. This farewell was quite unique because it also was a “welcome home” gathering for the Bob Storeys (children of Klaas P. Pletts) who had just arrived, finishing a five-year term of service in Thailand under the New Tribes Mis­ sion. Bob was grateful for the church’s in­ terest, fellowship, and support. Some in­ teresting and humorous incidents were related about the work in Thailand, and about the children’s “reactions” to a strange unknown culture here in Canada. The Storeys presented the church with a beautiful hand-carved wooden plaque from Thailand, as a token of appreciation. Now isn’t all this something to humbly praise the Lord for? Sure, it is, but a few more young people are out serving the Lord abroad this summer, and they need our prayers too. First it was Cheryl Unger who quickly went to work for the Janz Team in (jerraany right after Bible school. Then Hulda Plett went to help her niece, Lillian Plett, in United Arab Emirates under TEAM. Two young men went out to serve the Lord in Germany under the EMC Board of Missions’ summer program. Tom Koop and Jeff Plett did some sightseeing before their assignment began. However, word has it that they are busily involved in tract dis­ tribution, singing, personal work and preaching?

Prairie Rose, Man.: That is quite a difficult question to answer, isn’t it? Well, let’s narrow it down to missionary young people - going abroad. A big job was waiting for Menno and Lydia Plett in Zaire, Africa. They had been there before. However, this time they were to coor­ dinate all the affairs of the Mennonite Central Committee in the country of Zaire. “Quite a shoe to fill,” Menno said. On Ascension Day in the evening. May 24, the church gathered to bid them godspeed. Evelyn Barkman’s farewell was only three days later, on May 27, and she was excited to

go back to Mali, Africa under the GMU to supervise in the new girls’ school in Warsala, after a term of studying at the Winnipeg Bible College. Her support was all met, and even enough had come in for her to get a good used car in Africa, which will greatly help her in her many responsibilities. Leonard (a brother to Evelyn) and Faye Barkman, with their two boys, were in the meantime eagerly getting ready to leave for King’s College in Belize. This college is similar to the Windermere High School in Eleuthera, where they have served for five or six years. The farewell for the Barkmans and Pat Kroeker took place on August 12 with a good attendance. Quite a few guests had come for this occasion, to make it so much more com­ plete. Even our former pastor was present. The Barkmans are trusting the Lord to supply all their needs before departing. Pat Kroeker spent one summer at the Winderemere School in Eleuthera, helping at the school, in camps, and clubs. This evening it meant saying goodbye for two years. Her place of service will be a Christian academy where she will be teaching missionary children, using the American curriculum. Being a committed teacher at heart, this is what the Lord has been preparing her for. Pat too was glad to go out as an “extension of the church.” She was thankful

Menno and Lydia Plett, serving with MCC in Zaire, Africa.

Full-time Camp Cook Needed Red Rock Bible Camp, an inter­ denominational, evangelical, yearround camp, 100 miles east of Win­ nipeg in the Whiteshell Provincial Park, requires a full-time cook im­ mediately. Lodging at camp is provid­ ed. For more information call 3269784 in Steinbach or write Red Rock Bible Camp, Box 790, Steinbach, Man. ROA 2A0 THE MESSENGER

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE! Braeside (Winnipeg): The following is a run­ down of the activities of our church during the past few months: Friday, April 13 a.m. — Good Friday Com­ munion Service. Speaker was Rev. Ben D. Reimer. Saturday, April 21 — Braeside Christian Service Brigade Father and Son Banquet. Wednesday, April 25 — Pioneer Girls’ Spr­ ing Sale and Puppet Show. Sunday, April 29, a.m. — Gideon represen­ tative, Mr. Ratzlaff, brought an excellent message and report. Tuesday, Ma.v 1 — Church membership meeting for discovery of our church’s goals which were discussed earlier in group meetings. These are the goals we discovered: 1) to involve at least 120 of our church family in small group fellowships to study as stated in Ephesians 4:12-27, 2) more soul winning, bap­ tisms and church membership, 3) to work toward the completion of an education wing for our church in the next year. Sunday, May 6, p.m. — “Inspiration,” a group from Okanagan Bible Institute, presented a program of beautiful sacred music. Monday, May 7— Ladies’ Spring Cradle Roll Tea. Guest speaker was Mrs. Audrey Harder. Sunday, May 13 — Mother’s Day. A.M. Message entitled “Don’t Forget Your Mothers,” an all ladies’ choir, and a baby dedication ser­ vice. P.M. — Mother’s Day Program and refreshments. Monday, May 14 — Church Spring Cleaning was completed in one evening. Workers were all served refreshments. Tuesday, May 22 — World Vision of Canada reported on results of TV special, “I’m Hungry.” The film, “Cups of Cold Water,” was shown. Saturday, May 26 — Young People’s Coffee House featuring a singing group called “The Gospel According To.” The.v also had a bottle drive earlier that afternoon. Sunday, May 27, a.m. — Westgate Collegiate Choir sang for us and Mr. Heimo Bachmeyer, a member of our church and a teacher at Westgate, had the message. P.M. — Sunday school Parent/Teacher meeting and refreshments. Dr. John Unger from MBBC spoke on the topic, “Teaching Children to Pray.” End of Ma.v — Wednesda.v night activities including Junior Church, Pioneer Girls, Stockade and Batallion Boys were discon­ tinued for the summer. Bible Stud.v and Prayer Meetings continue through the summer. Friday, June 1 — Young People’s Hay Ride. Frida.v and Saturday, June 8 and 9 — Overseas Missionary Fellowship Annual Prayer Conference. Special messages on prayer b.v Dr. Stephen Woodward. Sunday, June 10 — Children’s Day. A.M. Our pastor spoke on “Priority Rating of Children” and a children’s choir presented their songs. Thursday, June 14 — Youth Banquet in honor of the ’79 grads in the York Room in the Winnipeg Inn. After the banquet the young people and man.v friends and relatives boarded the Lady Winnipeg for a cruise on the Red River. Congratulations to the following 1979 grade 12 graduates: Mike Plett, Audrey

AUGUST 17, 1979

Goertzen, Darlene Stoesz, Lorraine Barkman, Debbie Schultz, Pauline Plett and Marilyn Kroeker. Saturday, June 16 — Sunday School Picnic at Birds’ Hill Park. A sunny afternoon enjoyed by all! Sunday, June 17 — Father’s Day. A.M. - Mr. Wayne A. Welch from Scripture Union gave us a very good message. A men’s choir sang. P.M. - Father’s Day Program including music by the “Maranatha Gospel Team,” a children’s special, “The Ideal Father” talks, a sermon by our pastor and refreshments and fellowship. Tuesday, June 19 — Ladies’ Mission Group year-end wind-up. The ladies invited their husbands along on a tour of the Winnipeg Mint and to a barbecue at Pastor and Mrs. Plett’s home. Wednesday, June 20 — Church Membership Meeting. Items on the agenda were testimonies by the baptismal candidates and refugee and building progress reports. Saturday, June 23 — Young People’s Car Wash. The proceeds were directed back into the .vouth program. The young people also have Bible studies every other week. The topics dis­ cussed are very real to the everyday Christian life, e.g. “Devotions,” “Faith vs. Feelings,” “Anger and How to Deal with it.” Sunday, June 24 — A.M. - Baptism and Membership Reception. Baptized were Kim Bartel, Felecia Dueck, Pauline Erickson, Karen Fast and Lewis Lunn. Mrs. Louise Dyck and Mrs. Pegg.v Kleinpeter transferred their church membership to ours. We sincerely wish them God’s guidance and blessing. P.M. - We viewed the 1975 third best evangelistic film, “Blood on the Mountain.” This film demonstrates the strength of God’s love and forgiveness. Sunday, July 1 — Pastor and Mrs. Plett and family left on vacation. They were gone for two weeks and enjoyed themselves immensely. It was a well-deserved holiday. Friday, July 13 — Our church’s first refugee family arrived. The family consists of a hus­ band, wife and five children. We are very pleased to have them with us here in Canada and hope to make them feel very much at home. 'They are attending our church. Sunday, July 15 — Mr. Tim Reimer, a member of our church who is studying for the ministry at MBBC, had the sermon this morn­ ing. Sunda.v Jul.v 29, P.M. — We were treated with an ice-cream social in the Fraser Grove Park. The evening started with everyone receiv­ ing a generous helping of homemade ice-cream. This was followed by volleyball, croquet, frisbee, etc., then a devotional under the trees. It was a first for our church and was so enjoy­ able that it probably won’t be the last. SUNDAY SCHOOL PICNIC

Riverton, Man.: The month of July was a hus.v one for the Riverton Gospel Chapel. The Sunday school picnic, DVBS, as well as a number of guest speakers made the month a very inspiring one. The Sunday school picnic was held on July 3. It began with a wiener roast. The ladies brought cookies for dessert and the treat of ice­ cream really topped it off. Games for all ages was next on the agenda. The annual baseball game was enjoyed by players and spectators

alike. A sing-song and object lesson by Mr. John Klassen ended the evening of friendship and fellowship. We had 75 children enrolled in our DVBS. Since there were 13 classes each child could get a more personal confrontation with the Word of God. The week ended by the DVBS taking part in the Riverton Reunion Days parade on Saturday, July 8. The young people and their sponsors, Ken and Carol Kornelsen, had work­ ed hard in preparing a lovely float with the motto, “Thy Word have I hid in my heart.”

RETREAT from page 3 good choice. It was more than adequate and a generall,v central location for the majorit.v of participants. The Saturday afternoon free time I think was also well utilized for interac­ tion and recreation. Meals were served by a group from our Treesbank (Wawanesa) Church. They need to be commended for their service (John Pletts, Peter Reimers, Irwin Pletts). Able organizers of this year’s retreat were Diedrich Friesen, Treesbank; Frank Friesen, Pleasant Valley and Gladwin Plett, Winnipeg. This is the fourth Ministers’ Retreat held thus far. The others were: 1) Red Rock - 1972, 2) Clear Lake - 1975, 3) Clear Lake - 1977.

LETTERS cont'd. country’s refugee camps are threatened with the same fate. Their future is bleak indeed and the,v have little choice; they will drown, starve, or by some miracle be rescued and given asylum in a benevolent country. It is superfluous to say that these peo­ ple need our help. We cannot act too quickly in our efforts to alleviate this tremendous human tragedy. Each one of us must show our individual concern. We must work in community and church groups to raise support for refugees and to become involved in the refugee spon­ sorship program. We must impress upon our government the urgency of the problem and pressure it to accept more refugees in Canada. Let us not be like the wealth.v tourists who were sitting com­ placently on the patio of their luxurious hotel on the Malaysian beach, watching as soldiers fired on an overloaded refugee boat as it tried to land. We would do well to remind ourselves of words often forgotten by the Christian community, “If a man is rich and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against his brother, how can he claim that he has love for God in his heart? Our love should not be just words and talk; but it must be true love, which shows itself in action.” A / Frieseyi P.O. Box 98.5 Maseru 100 Lesotho

PAGE 11

Around the World

1 Newton Gingrich at an annual MCC meeting. NEWTON GINGRICH DIES; ll'.lS MCC CHAIRMAN, WATERLOO COORDINATOR

Newton Gingrich, 53, of 21 Henry Vogt Ave., Tavistock, Ont., longtime leader in the Men­ nonite Church and in Mennonite Central Com­ mittee, died about noon on August 1. Gingrich was working with his son Daryl at the Em­ maus Center, a private retreat center partly owned by the Gingrich family, when he was stricken with a heart attack. Gingrich was chairman of Mennonite Cen­ tral Committee since January 1977, and had been chairman of MCC (Canada) from 1972 to 1978. He was an MCC executive committee member since 1968. At the time of his death he was employed half time by the General Board of the Men­ nonite Church as coordinator of local arrangements for Waterloo ’79, the Mennonite Church conference set for August 11 to 16. From 1973 to 1975 he was moderator of the Mennonite Church, of which he was moderator-elect from 1971 to 1973. He con­ tinued as a General Board member until 1977. He was executive secretary of Region I at the time of his death. Gingrich had resigned as pastor of East Zorra Mennonite Church in Tavistock in June.He had earlier pastured churches in Elora and Markham, Ont., and was teacher and prin­ cipal of Ontario Mennonite Bible School and Institute in Kitchener from 1958 to 1969. An avid supporter of inter-Mennonite cooperation, he chaired the inter-Mennonite Mission and Service Board in Ontario for many years. He atended Eastern Mennonite College in Harrisonburg, Va. Memorial services were at 10:00 a.m.. August 4, at East Zorra Mennonite Church. Speakers were Ralph Lebold, Ontario Conference minister, William Snyder of MCC and Ivan Kauffman, general secretary of the Mennonite Church. The family designated that special contributions be made to MCC. PAGE 12

THE MESSENGER

Bob Detweiler, and Erland Waltner, Elkhart, Ind.: Kenneth G. Bauman, Berne, Ind.; Charles Neff, Lebanon, Pa.; David Thomas, Lancaster, Pa.; James Miller, Kidron, Ohio; Norman Schmidt, Quakertown, Pa.; Simon Schrock, Fairfax, Va.; Nathan Showalter, Landisville, Pa.; Gary Stenson, Quakertown, Pa; Art McPhee, Harrisonburg, Va.; Richard Tschetter, Pretty Prairie, Kan.; Albert Epp, Newton, Kan.; Ivan Yoder, Belleville, Pa.; John Drescher, Scottdale, Pa.; Paul G. Landis, Lan­ disville, Pa.; James S. Herr, Nottingham, Pa.; Bill Detweiler, Kidron, Ohio; Bob Detweiler, Goshen, Ind.; Erland Waltner, Elkhart, Ind.; Eugene R. Witmer, Smoketown, Pa.; and J. C. Wenger, Goshen, Ind. — Dave Graybill. (Excerpted from Gospel Herald)

GROUP REAFFIRMS SCRIPTURAL AUTHORITY Saying the Mennonite Church needs to reex­ amine its priorities, an ad-hoc group of church leaders has issued a statement reaffirming scriptural authority and calling for renewed emphasis on evangelism and personal piety over confrontive social action. The group, comprised of pastors and lay­ persons from the Mennonite Church, the General Conference Mennonite Church, the Conservative Conference of the Mennonite Church, and the Beachy Amish, made its observations at a July 10-11 consultation at Smoketown, Pa. SENATE PASSES BILL TO AID “Central to all activity must be an emphasis SEMINOLE MENNONITES on the saving power of the gospel,” the 20Washington, D.C. — The full Senate voted member group said in its statement “For the church all endeavor needs to flow out of an ap- Thursday, August 2, to pass Senate Bill 707, predation of our redemption in Christ and our the private immigration bill for Mennonites in awareness that all men everywhere need this Texas and Oklahoma. Senate approval of the wholeness in Christ.” bill had been anticipated but was expected to Though pointed in their criticism of certain be delayed until after September 7. The bill church trends, consultation participants passed without debate in the final hours before emphasized that the meeting had not been call­ Congress adjourned for its August recess. S. 707 is designed to prevent the eventual ed, in the words of Bill Detweiler, a convener. to “pick a fight.” The consultation was called deportation of the Old Colony Mennonites in because of “a deep love for the church and with Seminole, Tex., and Boley, Okla., from the the desire to build up the body of Christ," John United States. The bill must now move through the House Drescher, Scottdale, Pa., told Gospel Herald. While areas of concern raised by par­ Judiciary Committee, chaired by Elizabeth ticipants ranged from Mennonite attitudes Holtzman (D-N.Y.l, and the House of toward abortion to the withholding of war tax- Representatives. If approved by the House, it es, several of the group’s major concerns were will be sent to President Carter for his similar to those cited by Detweiler, a Kidron, signature. It is expected that the House will take more Ohio, pastor, in his opening remarks. Among current attitudes and trends in the church that time considering the bill and that passage in the House may be more difficult than in the concern him, Detweiler said, are: —“An emphasis which seems to focus more on Senate. The approximately 650 Old Colony Men­ political action and confrontation than on per­ nonites seeking permanent resident status sonal salvation.” —“An approach on the part of some which came to the United States from Mexico in early 1977. They were given repeated assurances, seems to be moving close to humanism.” —“A ‘lack of concern’ for evangelism.” primarily from real estate agents, that they —"A low view of the inspiration and authority would have no problem obtaining permanent of Scripture.” resident papers once they had purchased land. —“An inordinate or unbalanced adulation of They were permitted to enter the United States on tourist visas, but through ad­ cultural Anabaptism.” Albert Epp, a General Conference pastor ministrative channels their efforts to from Newton, Kan., scored what he called a regularize their status has met with little “psuedo-intellectualism” in the church. Per­ success. Only through legislation efforts such as sons with such a viewpoint revise or reject S.707 can they hope to achieve permanent resisuch doctrines as the virgin birth, he said. The following persons w’ere present at the dent status. The Mennonites in Seminole lost consultation and helped to draft the statement, their land in early 1979, but remain in which was copy-edited by Drescher, Bill and Seminole.