The Messenger July 18, 1980

The Messenger EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE

VOL 18

NO. 15

JUL 18/80

1980 Convention Issue

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he 1980 Annual Convention is history. In this issue you will find some of the proceedings of the convention. A big vote of thanks and gratitude surely goes to the organizers and those who participated in the ac­ tual convention, be it in serving food, in messages, in reports, in ushering, etc. We all know that it takes a lot of people to make a convention work. We cannot begin to publish everything that went on, for lack of room. As you will see, the inspirational sessions were left out almost entirely. This is not because they were not important. It is our plan to at least summarize some of the messages for a future issue. I think I can take the liberty to thank all who helped to make the 1980 EMC convention a success. God bless you! D.S.

Conference Council Meets to Hear Reports and Decide on Issues By Dave Schellenberg SOME 200 PEOPLE (delegates, deacons and ministers, plus maybe some committee chairmen) were present for the 1980 EMC Conference Council meeting. Sessions were again held in the comfortable chapel/music building of the Steinbach Bible College. Hearty singing and a devotional by Moderator Henry Kornelsen started off the morning. Mr. Kornelsen encouraged to trust, courage and victory so that people will see the “supernaturalness” of Christ. We dare not rely on self-assertion and self­ effort.

As usual, committee and board reports were the first order of the day. The very first report I think must have been ac­ companied by some chuckles. When no one responded to the call someone remarked that B.D. was supposed to report. To the call, “Is he here?” the reply came, “I am here but I have not been notified!” Well, no harm was done. B.D. came up and read the report. 1. Social Concerns Committee: Ben Dyck reported. The report indicated involve­ ment in various social issues such as “Mennonite Culture,” “The Christian and Politics,” “Human Sexuality for

Conference council meeting during the convention.

Christians,»,” «•“Marriage and Divorce,” and “Forgiveness.” In addition, “Straight Talk” (Messenger articles) converged on many different issues by a number of different writers. The report was submitted by Mel Koop, chairman. Responses: “I want to commend the committee on what they are doing. Very appropriate and timely.” “I would like to see a stronger state­ ment on TV, where we would support pure thinking.” One questioner wondered if there was something in the line of recommended viewing for children. It was suggested that people share Information. “Has anyone looked into the matter of pornography literature?” Another one wondered if the Social Concerns Committee was our voice to government regarding the matter of abortion, etc. “Or is there any voice going to the government?” A remark was then made as to whether we expect the Social Concerns Committee to speak to government. To continue to speak to the abortion questioil was encouraged by one pastor. “We should work at the abortion issue.” Someone remarked that nurses could do a lot in this ares, 2. Youth Committee: Gordon Schellenberg, chairman, gave the report. THE MESSENGER

1954: EMC Annual Convention Travel: Some Contrasts But Things Have Not Always Been What They Are Now!

In a summary of the 1954 annual convention held at Rosenort, Man., we find the following interesting observa­ tion about travelling conditions at that time. The writer is Mr. P. D. Friesen, then pastor of the Steinbach EM Church. Delegates Arrive by Plane 1980: Of course, not many con­ ference delegates came to the 1980 EMC Convention this way. Most came by car (on good paved roads). Nevertheless the delegates from MacGregor, Man. (left to right), Men­ no Kroeker (pastor), Dave Sawatzky (pilot), Jake Friesen and Dick Hildebrand, chose to come via small plane. The Steinbach flying field is only about a mile from the 1980 con­ vention site (at SBC), making it very handy. The flight from MacGregor had taken about one hour.

“Saturday morning, beginning of the conference, a light rain was falling on the land and on the roads, as if everything should get a good soaking.

Among the activities of this eommittee were the annual snow camp and the par­ ticipation in the Youth Symposium (last fall) in Winnipeg. For this year a youth leaders’ seminar is again planned (November). Thanks was expressed for interest and prayer support. Mention was also made that the com­ mittee has been thinking of a Conference­ wide youth camp. They invite help in securing a site as well as choice of speakers. A venture like this might also require part-time paid help in ad­ ministering such a program.

Mennonite Conferences taking part. The annual conference will be in Winkler on September 27, with David Augsburger as guest speaker. Response: “Does the centre accept outof-the-provlnce patients?” The answer was, yes. Mr. P.J.B. Reimer, our senior minister, reminisced a bit concerning the centre, reminding us that it was the EMC which made the first move. He was the chair­ man of the first committee.

3. Eden Mental Health Centre: Gerry Doerksen reported. There are now seven

“Many autos left early because peo­ ple knew that a tough road (to Rosenort) lay ahead of them. “The rain soon ceased but not the muddy roads. The first people arrived a half hour late and they kept coming till 12:00 noon. By 2:00 p.m. most of those coming had arrived!” (Familienfreund No. 15, 1954)

4. Board of Education: The report was read by Harvey Plett, chairman. The report revealed that the Conference German paper, “Familienfreund,” has a circulation of over 2200

Conference delegates pick up name tags before proceeding to the business meeting.

JULY 18, 1980

copies and goes to Canada, Mexico, U.S.A, and Paraguay. “The Messenger” has a cir­ culation of over 2800 with mainly Cana­ dian readers. Some 70 copies go to mis­ sionaries by airmail. A joint publishing venture with the M.B. Conference will see a book, “Four Buds in His Bouquet,” come out shortly. It is the story of the Elvin Reimer family. The author is Betty Barkman, Pansy, Manitoba. A Messenger readership survey is to be conducted. The student aid fund (MSF) is low, the report revealed. Two post­ secondary student meetings have been held in the past Conference year. A re­ quest for cooperation with the Winnipeg Theological Seminary was mentioned. Responses: A question concerned itself with this last mentioned item. The re­ quest from WTS involved the matter of subsidizing EMC students at the seminary. This was taken up at a joint Executive/Board of Education meeting with the outcome being that we ap­ preciated the seminary but were not ready for such an involvement. A comment was made on the item which announced a “Church Profile” sec­ tion in The Messenger. It was a positive comment. The suggestion was made that we might even do this with people. Choice Books, which the Board sup­ ports came in for a good commandation from D. P. Friesen, our prison chaplain. A part of this discussion period also gave room for an announcement concer­ ning the launching of a new theological journal by a small group of interested in­ dividuals. An ad hoc meeting in June resulted in a committee being elected and the publication, to be known as “Open Forum,” proposed. One brother expressed the concern that “everyone would be gracious not to start labelling one another.” We need to accom­ modate ideas without labelling people. over please

Senior minister, P.). B. Reimer, making a point at the Conference Council meeting.

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A caution was expressed that an an­ nouncement whch had gone to the churches was maybe a little premature. This respondent would have liked a more official green light. 5. MCC (Manitoba): The report was given by Willie Dueck, one of our represen­ tatives. About 35 VSers are involved in Manitoba programs. The Offender Ministry continues on three fronts: Open Circle, Grosvenor Place and Victim Offender Mediation Project. Seventy-five percent of donor funds goes to the inter­ national program. Since this was a provincial report there was not much room for discussion. One i question concerned itself with division of administration between provincial and Canadian aspects of MCC. The Food Bank was mentioned and a questioner wondered if non-farmers could get in on this program. The reply stated that money could be donated to MCC for which they would then purchase Harry Neufeld, chairman, EMC Board wheat. of Missions, making a point at a business

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meeting at the annual convention.

6. MCC (Canada): The MCC (Can.) report was given by Menno Kroeker, our representative. The report revealed that 1979 was the first year in which MCC had received more funds from government sources than from the constituency. As of April 30, 1980 there were 68 VSers serving in Canada. There is a decline in applications. Food Bank inventory is 8,499.766 metric tonnes with a value of $1,282,233.33. 6. Finance Committee Report: This report was given by Victor Friesen and John Olfert. For the pessimist there was grist for the mill in this report. We faced the cold facts that receipts are over $88,000 short of the budget for the first six months of 1980! This is an alUtlme record of deficit. Shortages, of other years were given for comparison. 1977 — $31,099.88 1978 - 22,401.63 1979 - 29,685.36 We were encouraged by the committee to “examine our priorities and raise the Lord’s work to greater heights.” Total receipts to June 30, 1980 were $318,036.07 towards a proposed budget to that time of $406,489.98. Responses: “Is it alarming? For me it is.” “I don’t think the Finance Committee is alarmed, but it is concerned.” Someone wondered if people were unPAGE 4

able to give or if it was also a matter of communication. Another questioned if churches were informed as to what was expected of them. The reply was they were aware of the budget.

Have allowances been on time? Yes. There had been approximately a 2 bi­ month surplus on hand. There was also concern expressed over the volume of requests one gets in the mail. 7. Board of Missions: Report given by Henry Klassen. The report was divided into eight sub-sections: I. Field Activity II. Personnel III. Associate Missions IV. 1980 Missionary Orientation V. Administration VI. Other Organizations VII. Missions Auxiliary VIII. Issues and Concerns The last point had to do in particular 'ATth "future projections. Responses: Out of the point on Missionary Orientation the question was raised whether we need to wait till 1982 for renewal. The answer was, “No, we can have renewal now.” The report revealed a program of phas­ ing out public relations and ad­ ministrative personnel in Associate Missions in North America. This, however, does not affect the missionary. It was felt that the Board was moving in the right direction in this area. This Board, as mentioned earlier, also made some projections for the future. Among them were the following: 1. Priority towards evangelism/church planting and reaching the unreached. 2. Prayer. A Prayer Corps is being organized. 3. Upgrade allowance structure for foreign missionaries. 8. Ministerial Examination and Place­ ment Committee: The report was given by Arden Thiessen. The committee has had six meetings. Ten candidates were interviewed, four for ordination as ministers, one for licencing as minister, and five for ordination or commissioning as deacons. The committee would like to encourage the churches to continue to promote the minister-ln-training program. Experience shows that this can be productive. A number of pastoral vacancies have been filled. The following churches still need pastors: Birch River, Arden, Swan River and Rosenort Fellowship.

Good soup! Conference delegates enjoying lunch.

9. Music Committee: The report was read by Don Thiessen. The sheet music library has seen some expansion. The possibility of sponsoring some tours by EMC music groups has been explored. THE MESSENGER

10. Mennonite Disaster Service: The report was given by Henry Plett. MDS (Can.) now has representatives in all Canadian provinces. EMC con­ gregations are encouraged to elect contact persons and support MDS with prayer. Little activity has been seen on the Manitoba scene. There was some involve­ ment with forest fires in Ontario. Nebraska and Oklahoma saw post­ tornado clean-ups. The annual all-unit meeting will be held in Enid, Oklahoma, February 13, 14, 1981. 11. Nominating Committee: The report was read by Benny Friesen. Two meetings were held. Churches had again been asked to send in names. Some responded; others didn’t. The committee encourages churches to submit names when the request comes. By doing so they have a part in the nominations.

12. Steinbach Bible College: The report was read by Harvey Plett, president. “It is the goal of the College to prepare workers for the Kingdom of God,” stated the report. Semester I saw 68 enrolled. Semester II had the same number enrolled. A number of people took part in intersession as well as evening classes. The high school division saw some 130 students enrolled. A note of interest under Staff was the resignation of Mr. Ben Hoeppner after 26 years at the school. The College had 22 full-time and 10 part-time staff. Financially, the report said 1979-80 was a difficult year. The four-year degree program is to be phased out. The College also has a sizeable deficit in their current year. The Board has ap­ pointed a finance committee to assist the school administration in fund raising and budgeting. The report concluded with a note of praise to the Lord for His faithfulness and the constituency’s support and prayers. 13. Conference Executive: Art Neufeld reported. The report listed activities of the ex­ ecutive in the 1979-80 year. Two regional conventions took place. The regional representation study con­ tinued. As well, they looked around for a Conference pastor. One Study Conference was held. Papers on our Anabaptist heritage were planned for 1979-80

New moderator, Edwin Plett (on right), with outgoing moderator, Henry Kornelsen.

ministerial meetings. They will move the acceptance of the Anola Fellowship. A request has come from a group at Oakbank, Manitoba for affiliation with the EMC. The Virden Evangelical Christian Church does not wish to renew its affilia­ tion with the Conference due to the fact that a number of our families have left. The Anola group was accepted as a member in the Conference.

24. Constitutional Changes: On the docket were two proposed constitutional changes: 1. Board of Missions Advisory Council. It is proposed that the Advisory Council be disbanded and replaced by the Conference Council. The reason for this change is so that the EMC Board of Missions would be accoun­ table to one group and not two, as is the case now. This would eliminate some overlap and also extra travelling ex­ penses. The constitutional change was accepted for confirmation in December with the amendment that an extra half day be allotted to the business meetings. 2. Constitutional change of the EMC Conference executive. This change would divide the EMC of Canada into regions with a general board composed of representatives from each region. Representation on the board would be according to the EMC popula­ tion of that region. This general board would then replace the present executive. Regional representation on the General

Board shall be determined by a ratio determined by the Conference Council. The General Board would have an ex­ ecutive of five, who shall live within reasonable driving distance of the head office. Response: Quite a lengthy discussion was held on the “reasonable driving dis­ tance” point. It was moved to delete it but the motion was defeated. It was moved and seconded to bring the proposed change to the December Conference Council meeting. 15. Moderator Election: The present moderator, according to the constitution, could not be re-elected this year. Two peo­ ple had let their name stand - Ed Friesen (Kleefeld) and Ed Plett (Landmark). Elected for a one-year term was Ed Plett. Elected vice-moderator was Henry Kornelsen. Brother Plett thanked the council for its confidence and requested prayer. 16. Implementation of Regional Struc­ ture: A paper on implementation of a regional structure was presented by the executive. The tentative proposal would divide Canada into eight regions with representation according to membership (with two categories). Before the 1980 Conference Council ses­ sion closed at about 4:40 p.m. a note of thanks was given to the outgoing moderator, Henry Kornelsen, and outgo­ ing vice-moderator, Johnny Loewen, shown by a clap of hands. ■

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.

JULY 18, 1980

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Mary Ann and Ernie Loewen. Under appointment to Paraguay this month. Dora Friesen, El Paso, Texas and Juarez, Mexico. Ladies’ and children’s work. Planning to go back in August. Joyce Goertzen. Leaving for summer service in Mexico. The presentation of missionaries concluded with a prayer, led by Mr. Klassen, for those missionaries pre­ sent as well as the staff on the field.

Henry Klassen (right) talking with Ernie Loewen (center) and Doug Doerksen (left). The Loewens and the Doerksens are both under appointment to Paraguay.

Presentation of Missionaries at Annual Convention There are now 141 missionaries on the support roster of the EMC Board of Missions. This includes both short­ term and career missionaries. Six others are on leave of absence. On Sunday afternoon those workers who were present for the convention were presented by the executive secretary, Henry Klassen. The following came to the platform for a brief word: Wilbert and Hilda Friesen, on leave of absence (Nicaragua), serving at Roseisle, Man. George and Esther Penner, just arrived from Honduras, serving with Mission Aviation Fellowship. Begin­ ning of November they will go to Guatemala. “It’s a real joy to be under the umbrella of the EMC.” Elmer and Elvira Warkentin, Nigeria: They have just come back from Nigeria where they were in­ volved in Bible teaching in high school. Expect to be home about one year. “We hear Canada has a surplus of teachers. If you would like a challenging job, come and see me today.” Doug and Sandra Doerksen, with Maria and Lisa. Leaving for Paraguay on July 14. Elmer and Tina Barkman, Venezuela. Have been home for about a year. Serving as dormparents and coordinator of the school base. “We’re looking forward to going back in about two weeks.” Cornelius and Annie Dueck, Aylmer, Ontario. Church planting. “Pray for revival.” Mary Loewen, just returned from a PAGE 6

term of teaching in a Mennonite village in Mexico. Dave and Merna Thiessen, Calgary, Alberta. Church planting and pastoral ministries. Levi and Elizabeth Reimer from Germany. Church planting. “The church in Seesen sends warmest greetings.’’ Jean and Gladmn Plett, Winnipeg. Under appointment to Seesen, Ger­ many. Leaving August 25. “Thanks for sending us.” Ernest and Elsie Funk, Paraguay. Taking pastorate at Pelly, Sask. Jasch and Marie Giesbrecht, Paraguay. On furlough. Planning to go back as soon as the Lord opens the door. Amanda Barkman, Venezuela. Teaching missionary children. Going back in August. Irene Kroeker, Mexico. Children’s work and Bible studies. Agrwe.s Friesen, Manitoba. With Canadian Sunday School Mission. In­ volved with youth and children. Helen Komelsen, Belize. Home on furlough. Teaching at King’s College, Belize. Jake and Bertha Kroeker, Mexico. Church planting and literature work. Dave and Lydia Dueck, Kamsack, Sask. Pastoral work. Mary and Frank Braun, Kamsack, Sask. Church planting on Indian reserve. Olga and Frank Reimer, Pelly, Sask. Church planting. Dora and Diedrich Friesen. Prison ministry.

Frank and Olga Reimer, Pelly, Sask., missionary presentation participants at the annual convention.

ANNUAL EMC CONVENTION TAPES The following annual EMC conven­ tion tapes may be ordered (or picked up) from the Conference Office in Steinbach: — Ladies' Meeting (Saturday, July 5, EMC Church). One tape - $3.75 — Dennis Oliver's Messages: 1. The Awakening Church (Friday, July 4) 2. Possibilities for Church Growth (Saturday, July 5) 3. Multiplication by Division (Sun­ day, 3:00 p.m.) 4. Meanwhile Back at the Ranch (Sunday, 7:00 p.m.) Messages 1 and 2, one tape, $3.75 Messages 3 and 4, one tape, $3.75 If you want the tapes mailed to you, please include an additional 25<t. E.M. Conference Box 1268 Steinbach, Man. ROA 2A0 440 Main Street THE MESSENGER

Love Is The Greatest by Marilyn Dueck

Love is the smile of a friend thrown with reckless abandon. Love is the sound of many happy whispers joining to create a musical hush. Love is a pianist filling the air with favorite gospel hymns. Love i.s the Holy Spirit bringing women together for praise, for adoration, for mutual encouragement.

Facing camera (on left) may be seen Leona Reimer, Chairperson of the Ladies' Meeting.

meant that her trust in God deepened, strength, does not get pushed out of shape making Him even more precious. Con- by external pressures, accepts herself tinuing on the subject of the blessings with her strengths and weaknesses, is which result from trials, Katherine Plett willing to serve, submits to God and the (Alvin) from Landmark’s Prairie Rose authorities He has placed over her, uses EMC concluded that growing hurts. She her gifts, guards well her interpersonal traced her own spiritual growth through relationships, has high moral values, the death of her mother, the postpone- practices forgiveness and is full of joy. ove is what was felt by the nearly ment of her marriage and the subsequent Since blossoms can sometimes deceive, three hundred women who gathered at death of their two-year-old child. How the proof of our faith is the fruit which the Evangelical Mennonite Church on can people come up praising?? Love - we bear. This fruit which the Spirit Steinbach’s Main Street for the Saturday God’s great love for them and their un- produces in us as found in Galatians 5:22 afternoon session of the EMC convention, reserved love for Him! equips us to do the good works which God Love brought women from as far away Love surrounded these testimonies in has planned for us to do in the extension as Germany, Mexico, Nigeria, Belize, Tex- the form of musical packages presented of His kingdom. Three hindrances to as, and Oregon. Four provinces were by two double trios. The first was from growth were given with unconfessed sin represented: Ontario, British Columbia, Steinbach’s EMC and the second from the being the greatest. Isolation from non­ Saskatchewan, with_the largest delega- Prairie Rose Church in Landmark. Christians and cultural boundaries can tion from Manitoba. These are the women 7Love made ’ time " seem to stand, still as also stunt or stop our growing up to the who expressed their love by lifting their Joy Penner, wife of James Penner who full stature of Christ. ” voices in harmony to render their praises pastors the church in Kola, asked “How As we we grow grow and and mature mature in in Christ we As to God most high, led in their singing by Does God’s Garden Grow?” In likening will naturally share our faith, making it Gladys Fast (Milton) and accompanied by spiritual growth to the natural growth of valid not only for ourselves but to those Arlene Monkman (Gary) both of the plants, Joy took us through three basicGod has placed around us as well. If we Evangelical Fellowship Church in Stein- phases of growth: the rooting stage, the would obey His command to make disbach. blossoms, and the fruit. Before a seed can ciples it will mean investing our time in Love was demonstrated by these many take root it must fall into the ground and another individual. Always we need to sisters in Christ as Leona Reimer (John die. If we would be planted in God’s gar- remember that to keep our light shining K.) from Wymark, Saskatchewan, who den it will cost us everything. Death to brightly we must stay near the Source, led the meeting, asked each one to greet self is the only way we can rise to new life Joy closed by challenging us to grow in her neighbor with “an holy kiss” or “a in the light of God’s love. Our roots must God’s garden by keeping a positive, hearty handshake” as a modern transla- go deep if we would survive, yet the im- progressive response to Christ inour daition puts it. Into this atmosphere of love portance of taking time to be alone with ly walk with Him. Lydia Loewen (Eddie) of Steinbach EMC God often escapes us. Only this time Love then took action as the women proclaimed from His Love Letter the por- spent beholding our God will produce the reached into theirpocketbooks to give tion in Philippians 4:4-8. deep roots which we need so desperately $776 for the Lord’s work at the Nicaragua Love was recalled as three ladies gave for stability in our life. With the roots go- Clinic which Doris Friesen directs so testimony to God’s love in their lives by ing ever deeper, drinking the water of the faithfully. the suffering they have experienced on Word, the sprout can then reach upward ' ;Love united ' ’ as ” Mary Wiebe (Pete) of their personal road to spiritual maturity, to the light and be seen by our fellow men Blumenort led in the singing of “Blest Be Bertha Plett (Dave), Blumenort, shared and women. the Tie That Binds” bringing to a close the her feelings concerning the promotion to In order to blossom we must meet the formal worship portion of the afternoon, glory of two of their young children. ’The conditions for growth. These are the food An invitation was then extended for lessons which they learned and the tender of God’s Word, disciplined obedience, and everyone to join in a fellowship lunch concern of friends proved God’s sufficien- the teaching of the Holy Spirit. As we downstairs, cy to carry them through the hard days, continue to grow we will become mature Love has many definitions. Linda Plett (Clarence), Blumenort, gave Christians, which Joy described for us. Love is giving someone enough room to witness to God’s love in taking her Such a woman is one who trusts, who con- grow. through the waters of malignant disease trols her anger and her conversation, is GOD IS LOVE! and finding that the growth in her life content with her life, possesses inner

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JULY 18, 1980

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Russ Loewen performing at the children's session at annual convention.

Children’s Session Some 780 children attended the children's session at the 1980 annual convention. The Steinbach church was in charge of programming. Involved were the following people: Don Friesen (chairman), Mrs. Elizabeth Reimer, Russ Loewen, Brenda Penner and Peter A. Hiebert.

sion is limited because of a shortage of finances and personnel. We need to ex­ pand where the people are, in the cities, especially those that are growing rapidly. The Mexico national church council is asking for more missionary personnel to help them in strengthening the churches and for expansion. A building is being erected at Camp 67 for a school and a meeting place. A teacher will be needed for this fall. Nicaragua has become a socialistic country. The church seems to be adapting well to this and is maintaining its witness for Christ. The churches are growing. In Paraguay we have a diversity of ministries — the work with Indians in East Paraguay and the Chaco, assisting in the Mennonite church, church planting among the nationals, and working together with the Mennonite colonies in the Chaco with Radio ZP-30. Expansion in Paraguay is open to us; personnel is needed. In Germany one church has been es­ tablished in Seesen. Gladwin Pletts are preparing to take up the ministry there while the Levi Reimers are in Canada for a year’s furlough. A report was given on the highlights of the 1980 Missionary Orientation, par­ ticularly on the trends and issues for mis­ sions in the ’80s. N.B. Your delegates to the Advisory Council should be given the opportunity to give a fuller report of this meeting.

Canadian Mission Churches/Mission Board Consuitation The meeting of the EMC Board of Missions and representatives of the Cana­ dian mission churches took place on July 4. Five churches were represented; a short report was given from each church. Following are a few excerpts: Aylmer, Ont. — Cornie Dueck. Their growth has been good, with a good balance of conversion-baptism and transfer growth. Hudson Bay, Sask. — Aaron Reimer. A building program has been launched. About 50-60 boys and girls are attending an Awana Club which was started last year. Seven people were baptized recently and two more received into their church membership. Belly, Sask. — Frank D. Reimer. A number of people have come to know Christ this past winter. A baptismal ser­ vice is planned for July. Kamsack, Sask. — Dave Dueck. Two

people recently accepted Christ at the Eaglestone Lodge. One passed away shortly after. Milton Fast spoke on “Evangelism,” stating that the outcome of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) should be a responsible church which continues the cycle of “making disciples.” “The evangelistic goal is not fulfilled until new converts become reproducing Christians . . . and guarantee the con­ tinuous process of evangelism/church growth.” In the discussion periods the following were some of the thoughts expressed; “ ‘Tentmakers’ may be the answer to strengthening weak churches and begin­ ning new churches to broaden our Cana­ dian base.” “One of the roles of the church in evangelism is to be a loving, caring com­ munity of believers that attracts others.”

EMC Missions Advisory Councii Meeting Thirty EMC churches had Henry Klassen presented an update on representatives at the Missions Advisory field issues. Council meeting held at the Steinbach BiIn Canada there are many opporble College chapel on July 4. tunities for expansion. However, expanPAGE 8

Family Camp Place: Beaver Creek Bible Camp Date: August 29 - September 1 Fee: 1. Per person $5.00 (under six free) Maximum per family $18.00 per day 2. Per person, own lodging $4.00 per day 3. Per person, own food and lodging $2.00 per day Registration fee: $10.00 (Deadline August 20) When applying please state how many persons and in which category (See 1, 2, 3 above) Send application to: Ruben Friesen Box 9 Riverton, Man. ROC 2R0 Phone: 378-2745

Beaver Creek Bible Camp is located 51 kilometers north of Riverton, Man. on Highway 234. THE MESSENGER

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Main speaker at the annual convention, Dr. Dennis Oliver (center), Al Hiebert, Kleefeld (right).

Fellowship!

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'1 Welcoming the Anola church. Dave Friesen, pastor of Anola church (on left), with Henry Kornelsen doing the welcoming.

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Elizabeth (foreground, left) and Levi Reimer (center, back) and son, Daniel (back right), from Germany.

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Even the toddlers had their place at the EMC annual con­ vention. JULY 18, 1980

Picking up food for Sunday lunch (faspa). I think we see Ar­ nold and Anne Fast of Abbotsford, B.C. in the foreground. PAGE 9

Letters NOW A "CONVICT FOR CHRIST"

Convicts use the expression, “If you can’t do the time, don’t do the crime.” Before I committed my crime, I had to make a deci­ sion, “Will it be worth it?” For the pressure I’m under, a successful bank robbery would mean a release of that financial pressure. If I’m caught, it would mean an escape through incarceration. With the amount of time thereby allotted me, to ponder over many things, another wrong is brought to mind - the wrong I’ve done to my wife. My divorce has brought me ‘life’ in terms of doing time. The hammer is down and I am crushed. Just as an egg is broken or Humpty Dumpty falls off a wall, it seems like my broken heart will never be mended. Yet through Jesus Christ we are given a promise of rebirth. He mends the brokenhearted and sets the captive free (Luke 4:18). Praise God for the death of Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary through whom we can have burdens lifted that seem un­ bearable. “The righteous cry and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles” (Psalm 34:17, 18). The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves those who are crushed in spirit. His grace has enabled me to become a “convict for Christ.” Quintin Dueck Saskatchewan Penitentiary Box 160 Prince Albert, Sask.

BETTER LATE THAN NEVER

Recognition must be given where it is due. I hope the recipients of my compliments believe, as I do, in the adage “better late than never”. In the May 9 issue Dave Thiessen favoured us with an analysis of the difference between Mennonite culture and Mennonite faith. Thank you. I have sometimes for­ malized my own analysis something like this; My background is Mennonite - past, un­ alterable; my aim is to be a Christian. I believe it dare not be different. In the June 6 issue Betty Plett reminded us of the responsibility of describing people ac­ curately and courteously. Those audible peo­ ple who call the “unhearing” and those devoid of speech “deaf and dumb” automatically become the “hearing and dumb,” don’t they? Are not only those dumb who will not learn, be they hearing or “unhearing?” Thank you. Sister! Thank you, editor and staff, for your perceptive work. Keep it up! Arnold Brandt Arborg, Man.

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ANNOUNCING

Would it be possible to place the following announcement in the next issue of the Messenger? A quarterly Journal has been established by a group of interested individuals. A tentative statement of their purpose reads: To establish a journal that will be a forum for expression of theological con­ cerns with this in view, that loving one another we might analyze our understan­ dings of the Christian life, and that through healthy dialogue we might better learn obedience to Christ in the issues that face his church. Subscriptions can be obtained by sending a $5.00 fee to: Open Forum 311 Machray Ave. Winnipeg, Man. R2W 2A3 Tim Reimer RRl, Morris, Man. CORRECTION

I should like to point out a rather impor­ tant mistake (important insofar as it ex­ presses the opposite of my intended mean­ ing) in the published reproduction of my letter in the July 4, 1980 issue of The Messenger. In the third paragraph of the letter there is a sentence which reads, “We find here no unification of understanding within the diversity of tongues.” This sentence should have read: “We find here no unification of language into a universal sym­ bolism, but rather a unification of understan­ ding within the diversity of tongues.” In other words, the reversal of Babel is not the elimination of diversity but rather the fulfil­ ment and completion of all diverse elements into an all-embracing framework of un­ derstanding, i.e. the Kingdom of God. Travis Kroeker

CONTRIBUTORS: Dave and Susie Eidse (Pleasant Valley) are involved in visitation and church planting among the German-speaking people in Mex­ ico. COVER: Elevators, long a symbol of Canada’s grain harvests, may not be as busy

Reviews Drugs and Drinking The All-American Cop Out by Jay Strack (Sceptre Books, Nashville, 1979) Drugs and Drinking strips away any mystery of drug and alcohol abuse among the young, and offers easy-to-understand, accurate information and insights necessary to understand the confusion of today’s youth and adults. Jay Strack speaks from personal ex­ perience, growing up in an environment where his family was shattered by alcohol abuse, where there was no stabili­ ty displayed, nor was any genuine love and concern evident. Thus Strack sought meaning and purpose in the chemical culture and experienced an even deeper sense of loneliness. Drugs and Drinking is written to help interested persons — recognize drug abuse symptoms and know how to help, — discover why people turn to drugs, — discover a solution to this self destructive culture of drugs and alcohol. In-depth explanations of drugs available constitutes the first section and seems to become tedious as you read. But then Strack discusses the respon­ sibilities of the home, the church, and the school, and a freshness and a new enthusiasm overtakes you as you begin to realize that there is a cure, there is healing from this devastating lifestyle, Jesus Christ is the only cure from the sin­ ful disease. Parents and pastors can benefit greatly from Jay Strack’s analysis and solution to society’s greatest threat. Jim Harms

this year as in some other years. A headline in a Winnipeg paper estimates that 1980 losses due to drought may run into the billions of dollars. The elevators pictured here are situated at McMahon, Sask., former address of a number of our Wymark church members. By the editor.

THE MESSENGER

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From the Editor Reflections on the 30th Annual EMC Convention ANNUAL CONVENTION has again been conducted for another year. Many miles have been travelled, many words spoken, many hands shaken! Will it make a difference to those who attended? This was the thought that went through the mind of one EMC pastor after it was all over. “What impact does a con­ vention have?” he wondered. He also wondered if there would maybe be more witnessing after such a convention. I think it is useful and needful to sit down and evaluate our public functions periodically. Just to have an annual convention because we had one last year and the year before doesn’t say they should be perpetuated. In fact, this year we reached a milestone of sorts. It was our 30th convention. I don’t know if anything special was made of it though. But it is quite an achievement. No doubt, the first convention was an enormous undertaking. Think of it. No precedence to go by! A leap into the unknown! Maybe not even expecting that there would be another one! But there were - 30 of them, so far. One wonders, in whose mind did it originate? What was the rationale? Why was it held? That we could know! But then we do have some information. Thank God for men of vision, men - or even a man - of the hour. In this case it was the editor of our Conference paper. The Familienfreund, who at the very first EMC convention in 1951 gave a brief rationale in an address at the first convention. Here are his points (no doubt first discussed at a ministerial meeting), the record of which I do not have. (Who has ministerial minutes of the 3O’s and 4O’s? Surely some of our senior ministers would have them. I would appreciate any clue. Ed.) I will try and give the reasons, as given by Mr. Reimer at the first EMC convention, in point form, although they did not appear that way in the original. 1. We live in a world fraught with pitfalls and snares. 2. We want to live victoriously. 3. We need to save the lost and be a light to them. 4. We need to identify these pitfalls. 5. We need to identify our obligations and duties in the light of God’s Word in order to be more steadfast and strong, withstanding with one heart and soul (I Cor. 1:10). 6. We are living in an age where a sword of destruction (literal translation) threatens us by a) worldly practices at weddings and other functions, b) a party spirit emerging in our churches where greater zeal to serve the Lord seems to be the goal. Greater zeal should be the goal of all of us, but it should not cause divisions. These then are some of the underlying reasons for calling the first Conference-wide convention. Total membership at that time could have been around 1900, comprising five churches. (Some 15% of the EMC membership had moved to Mexico just prior to this in 1948-49). Mr. Reimer closed his discourse with the following sen­ timents; May God give us light and wisdom in these days to ascer­ tain His holy will. May God grant it. I, for one, cherish this brief account of the background of our annual conventions. I believe it throws a lot of light on some of the issues that the EMC was struggling with. JULY 18, 1980

1. Duties of the minister as an overseer of the church, and with regards to the members’ walk, obedience, prayer and intercession ... 2. Pride in General 3. Missions and its Hindrances, through Pride, etc. 4. Wordliness in General 5. Weddings - Worldly, and how they should be 6. Questionable Sports 7. The Imperative of Missions According to the Word of God A word of caution. Before we raise our eyebrows and fault our forefathers on their approach to issues maybe we should stop and ask ourselves whether we still have any conscience about some of these things! Maybe today the pendulum has swung over to the other side where we are afraid to tackle these issues. Maybe we even ignore some of them. I think we are all aware that the emphasis and approach to issues today is different than thirty years ago. Recent topics bear this out. 1977 Facing the Future With God 1978 Self-Discipline in an Affluent Society 1979 The Ministry of the Holy Spirit 1980 Church Growth I think maybe what we are saying is that wordliness - the great concern at that time and rightly so - goes far beyond some of the things mentioned. It permeates the whole man and includes also sins of the spirit, which are not so readily visible. I think what we are saying further is that if we preach positively people will set their lives in order in rela­ tion to worldliness. But it doesn’t always work that way. So one comes to the conclusion that maybe there should be some of both - precept and example. So where do we go from here? We might well rest on our laurels and say, “Great convention; we had a wonderful time. Let’s plan another one.” (Build three tabernacles!) But then the nagging question of my friend again comes back. “What will the impact be?” Will it make a difference in our lives? One could say at least the ingredients were there and no doubt all were moved to a greater or lesser extent. But maybe we should go a step further. In time past we had a resolution committee which would assess the overall impact of the convention and come up with a brief state­ ment of resolve. Maybe this should be revived as one step towards taking the conventions more seriously. It seems this practice was dropped somewhere around 1975, whether through board action or default I don’t know. I believe if taken seriously it can be a useful thing. Even after a good convention it might not be out of place to make a thorough assessment as soon as possible aherwards. Nothing is perfect in this world and an evaluation could only guarantee better and more useful conventions in the future. And if one keeps one’s ears and eyes open it seems there would be some areas where criticism is valid, even in the 1980 convention. (We have already heard some.) For us, and a number of other Conferences, annual con­ ventions have been institutionalized. And there is nothing wrong with this. But one thing we need to be aware of is the danger of riding on this wave to the exclusion of freshness and wholeness and concern for a vital, vibrant annual gettogether, one where we can meet God in a new way. D.S. PAGE 11

Missions MEXICO

“Come Over... end Help Us” A Concern and a Plea Greetings from the hot sunny South! We praise the Lord that the Missions Auxiliary has approved the proposed con­ struction of a school and worship building at Camp 67. This is an answer to prayer. We do have a concern and a plea, however. Many people seem to lack con­ fidence that this building will become a reality. Others take us at our word. A lot has been donated. Another person offered to supply all the gravel. Contractors are willing to erect the cement walls soon. These people are concerned that their children receive a better education. The Bible has been the textbook in many of these schools. We have noticed that when these Bible truths are presented from personal experience, by a vibrant Spiritfilled person, that they take on new meaning and life. The children become excited about the scriptures. (Note 2 Tim. 3:15-17.) Who is willing to take up the challenge of teaching these children? We are not aware of anyone who is will­ ing to fill this position. The building, however, would not be built in vain. We could use it as a place of worship. Right now the parents are interested in the education of their children, therefore the previously mentioned offers of help in the construction of the school building. Can you imagine the disappointment of these people if we fail to supply a teacher? The need is urgent! We need a teacher by mid-October at the latest. Who will respond like Isaiah of old, “Here am I; send me”? Anyone with a grade twelve education or more, a desire to teach, and a dedication to the Lord, would qualify. Bi­ ble school training, of course, would be a plus. Dave and Susie Eidse

Mission Grams Mexico — An evangelistic crusade was held in Cerro de la Cruz with Felipe Cruz as speaker. The attendance was good and some responded to the invitation to receive Christ. — The heat wave in the southern U.S.A, is also affecting missionaries in Mexico. They praise the Lord for some rain on June 30. — Joyce Goertzen of the Prairie Rose EMC has left for Mexico as a Summer Christian Service worker.

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Paraguay — A one-week ministers' course was given at La Esperanza. Fifteen to twenty Indian ministers participated in the course. — The Valve Sanga Bible School for Indians has 21 male students this year. Two men from Santa Teresa in East Paraguay are also attending. The EMC has 20% cost-involvement in this school. South Africa Joe and Olga Reimer are settling in at the Mosvold Hospital and are busy with the maintenance work. The water supply is a problem since it must be hauled in from a river about 10 miles away.

Canada Agnes Friesen and her partner, Freda Johnson, are again facing a busy summer of Bible camps and Vacation Bible School ministries.

Nicaragua Doris Friesen was involved in an accident when a car swerved into her lane. We praise the Lord that Doris was not seriously hurt. The clinic vehicle was damaged to such an extent that it will not be fixed. A new vehicle is on order.

Mission Personnel — Joanne Martens of Kola, Man. was accepted for short-term service in Paraguay. Her assignment will be to serve as a nurse at the La Esperanza clinic. — Amanda Barkman of Blumenort was accepted for another short term of service in Venezuela with the New Tribes Mission. She will be teaching at a school for missionary children. — Elmer and Elvira Warkentin are home for a year's furlough during which Elmer wants to take further training to qualify him to become a teacher's college professor, teaching teachers in Bible Knowledge.

/

Sandra, Maria, Doug, Lisa DOERKSEN C.D.C.166 Tres Palmas E.M.C. Asuncion, Paraguay Phil. 4:7

Family Leaves For Paraguay Doug and Sandra Doerksen with their two children, Maria and Lisa, left for missionary service in Paraguay on July 14. Their assignment is to work with the East Paraguay Indians in community development and church planting.

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SooHTSluJics:

PAGE 12

THE MESSENGER

Messenger News Nicaragua Peace Church Members Gather for Retreat Akron. Pa. — Eighty pastors, lay leaders and missionaries representing three Anabap­ tist groups in Nicaragua joined together May 2 to 4 at a Baptist campground outside Managua for a weekend of fellowship and study of peace theology. The group included workers with Mennonite Central Committee. The retreat was a time of reflection and challenge on what it means to follow the way of love in the Kingdom of God, and for many it was the first opportunity to fellowship with Anabaptist pastors other than those of their own Conference. Main resource person was Gilberto Flores of Guatemala, formerly pastor of a Mennonite church in San Pedro Sula, Honduras and currently pastor in Guatemala City where there is much political violence. Primary purpose of the retreat was to ex­ plore with the Nicaraguan peace churches who they are and what their mission can and should be in Nicaragua today. Specifically, it was hoped that the church would explore the biblical vision of the church as a visible com­ munity of suffering servants within another kingdom, the biblical basis for nonviolence, the church’s response facing systematic violence and the salient themes of Marx and Liberation Theology, in order to better un­ derstand current reality in Nicaragua. “We do feel we at least began a movement towards dealing with questions raised (by the objectives),’’ commented Phil Bontrager,

who is co-director of MCC’s reconstruction program, with is wife Lori. A high point of the retreat was a presenta­ tion by Francisco Rodes, Baptist pastor from Matanzas, Cuba, who teaches at a seminary in Managua. Rodes gave a brief in­ troduction to Marxist thought and shared the experiences of the church in Cuba since 1959. Originally the church in Cuba withdrew from the revolution and only recently has it attempted to exhibit that it is not the “opiate of society” as some would like to believe, he said. Besides breaking stereotypes of Cuban life and society, he challenged the Nicaraguan church to be faithful to its call­ ing and to become an influential dynamic in the changing society. Response to the retreat has been positive, comments Bontrager. “We accomplished what we hoped - begin the thinking process and dialogue.” In addition to providing in­ put, he added, such retreats provide “an op­ portunity for fellowship between the three Conferences, something that will become in­ creasingly important as they try to develop a peace witness in Nicaragua.” The three Conferences in Nicaragua are related to the mission programs of the Brethren in Christ, Conservative Mennonite Conference and Evangelical Mennonite Conference of Canada.

MWC Executive “Pitches Tent” Toward Strasbourg

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Osaka, Japan Mennonite World Conference (MWC) president Charles Christano opened the annual MWC ex­ ecutive meeting June 5-7 at the Osaka (Japan) Mennonite Brethren campground with a close look at the “gallery of the saints” (Hebrews 11:8-16). Among them was Abraham, who always lived as if in a foreign land. He chose to live a pilgrim life by faith. He “pitched” a tent and “built an altar” to God. Christians too often want to sink their roots deeply. “To pitch a tent means literally to just temporarily throw down a resting place and have faith that God will provide,” said Christano. Christano’s opening thoughts were ap­ propriate several times during the MWC ex­ ecutive deliberations. In its 79 operations MWC experienced a $30,000 shortfall. Preparations for the 1984 eleventh assembly at Strasbourg, France, July 24-29, will re-

JULY 18, 1980

quire substantially increasing donations over the next four years. The MWC executive looked at financial reports which showed only a small percen­ tage of Mennonite churches responding fully to the 1979 20 cents per member asking. Discussion on the theme for the 1984 assembly narrowed down to three options: (1) Faith in Obedience; (2) Disciples and Ser­ vants; and (3) Eschatology, Hope, and Pilgrimage. Final choice is to be made at Nairobi in 1981. From a recent USSR visit the MWC ex­ ecutive received positive indications that a four-person USSR delegation will likely come to Nairobi in 1981 and that there is openness to a delegation for Strasbourg in 1984. Projections are to raise $275,000 for the travel fund to subsidize Third World persons to Nairobi and Strasbourg. Much of it is already promised.

r

Betty Kroeker

ANNOUNCEMENT Betty Kroeker (Steinbach) has been ap­ pointed secretary to the Board of Missions and accountant at the EM Conference Office in Steinbach. She assumed her duties on July 7.

COMING AND GOING Mennville, Man.: Since our last report the Benjamin Klassens have pulled up stakes and moved to Aylmer, Ontario to assist in the church work there. The testimonies and plans they shared before leaving sounded ex­ citing and promising and we were challenged by our pastor and others to stand together and reach out to the needs around us, at home and abroad. The Paul Friesens too have left for fields in southern Manitoba. Farewells, of course, are painful but we re­ joice to know that God is still calling us into His service. Let’s be faithful. On the other hand, folks are moving into our community from different parts of the world, which is very encouraging. Reynold and Luella Kroeker from Winnipeg have settled down on a turkey farm. The Ed Monkman family from Loon Straits has moved into the house on the hill. Several young fellows, like Isaac of old, are marrying distant brides and settling down in the neighbourhood. Still a number of other fellows have found local treasures, and are courageously launching out into the challenging fields of matrimony, setting up homes of some kind or other. Happy homemaking to all of you! For others interested, productive farms are still available with potential for heavy crops of hay or grain. Possibilities for jobs and industry are numerous. Perhaps new couples, or new families, should be welcom­ ed with a get-acquainted fellowship supper of some kind. Most exciting, I suppose, is the possibility for service to God - Bible camp. Vacation Bi­ ble School, Sunday school, visitation, etc. “Come over into Macedonia and help us” (Acts 16:9). PAGE 13

The Aberdeen church had a child-parent dedication service on June 22. Left to right: Susie and Joe Matula and son Lerel, Delores and Dave Racette and daughter Jolene, Agatha and Roy Keyser and daughter Myrna, Karl and Grace Coertzen and daughter Alana, John and Kathy Schlamp and daughter Kaylyn, Marvin and Alviera Plett and daughter Rachel. COMMISSIONING SERVICE FOR PASTOR Aberdeen (Wpg.): In the past two years, our church had the privilege of having two pastors, Ray Friesen and Karl Goertzen. This leadership has undergone a major change as now Karl Goertzen has taken on the full-time pastorate. A commissioning ser­ vice was held on June 1 for Karl and Grace. In February when this change of leadership was decided on, it was also af­ firmed that Ray stay on as a minister in our church. At our last membership meeting, by a general consensus, we asked Peter Penner and John Schlamp to serve on the teaching team with Ray Friesen and Karl Goertzen. As a team they will individually serve us with the messages on Sunday mornings. June 1 was the date for our Sunday school picnic. Everyone gathered at the Kildonan Park for a potluck lunch followed by races and games. On the weekend of June 13-15 we had our annual church retreat. This year we had it at the Canadian Sunday School Mission Camp at Gimli. It was an enjoyable weekend as we worked and played and had fellowship with each other. Some highlights of the weekend were a devotional on Saturday led by Karl, a volleyball game in the afternoon, and a varie­ ty program in the evening followed by a singsong around the fireplace. Then on Sun­ day morning, seeing we had such lovely weather, we had our worship service outside. The children enjoyed a special children’s church. It had been rather chilly on Friday and Saturday but Sunday afternoon it was warm enough for us to enjoy the beach before we headed back to the city. A special closeness and love develops between folks after such a retreat. Praise the Lord! Supporting the idea of the importance of PAGE 14

families and to impress on the parents the responsibility God has given them for the spiritual and physical well-being of their children, our church had a parent-child dedication service on June 22. MISSIONS MONTH

Crestview (Wpg.): All of April has been Missions Month here at Crestview Fellowship, and what a month of gaining new insights and receiving such blessings. “Are the Heathen Lost?” was the difficult question Rev. Jerry Hildebrand tried to answer. If we look at the Bible’s criteria of what salvation is, we must conclude that man is lost without Christ. By nature man’s inclination is to sin and he expresses his hostility socially, physically and spiritually. There is a heaven and a hell. Repentance is available in this life and there’s no second chance after death. Does this knowledge spurn us on to talk to that neighbour? share with that co-worker? Now with the realization that so many are lost, how can we possibly reach them? Rev. Henry Klassen brought us an encouraging and realistic viewpoint when he shared with us on April 20. First of all, the church needs to have the conviction that we are God’s in­ strument to save the world. We must evaluate our strategies and priorities on mis­ sions. The word “missions” conjures up im­ ages of grass huts in Africa, very remote from our everyday lives. However, we should emphasize the urban areas as well as the foreign mission fields. Finally, all the Third World churches have the responsibility to develop their own identity. Yes, the task is enormous but it is possible if the above fac­ tors are operating. What will heaven be like knowing billions went to hell? This thought-provoking message was brought to us by Rev. Fred

Friesen on April 27. What’s heaven like? It’s a place where there is no suffering, a glory waiting for us and a promise to God’s children. However reassuring this may be, one must face the fact that there is a hell too. It’s a place of eternal suffering and aw­ fulness. Yet how can we enjoy heaven know­ ing billions are in hell? We come to the con­ clusion that saying “no” to God is such a great sin that punishment is eternal. This leaves the onus on us: we must proclaim the gospel. The Holy Spirit calls and equips us to reach the lost. Are we dull to His voice? On May 4 Vern Ratzlaff of MCC (Manitoba) concluded our missions emphasis. He spoke on how to be “in the world, not of it... ” How do we relate to the world? A tension is created between “come out” and “go ye” in the Christian. We must remember that God loves the world. He created those beautiful maples, those leafy vegetables, those wild roses. Jesus has authority in the heavens and the earth. We conclude that we can be in the world but not of it. As one can see, April has been a month of blessings. However, it’s impossible to report in depth on every visitor who brought a special report. Others visiting us were the Ernest Funks, Susan Reimer, the Bill Martens, the Bill Toewses and the Henry Dycks. With all the emphasis on missions we ex­ perienced a joyous occasion with the return of George and Esther Penner and their two daughters, Pearl and Jewel, from their term in Honduras with Mission Aviation Fellowship. The church ladies had a grocery shower for the Penners in their new home. We know it will be a hectic and full schedule for them on their six-month furlough. We pray that God will give them rest and perfect peace, spiritually and physically. Friends return home but Crestview also has to say goodbye, A fellowship lunch was held Sunday evening, April 27, for Jake and Marg Neudorf who have moved to B.C. We miss you and think of you often in our prayers. “May the God of peace ..., that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” (Hebrews 13:20, 21, NIV). Change of Address

Old Address: Frank D. Reimer Box 452 Pelly, Sask. SOA 2Z0 New Address: Frank D. Reimer Box 1, R.R. 1 Landmark, Man. ROA 0X0 THE MESSENGER

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WELCOME

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I TO CANADA ■ |thewa«^geamily« I FROM LkuoJH B MBggggsBB-MJM

prepared to evacuate if the fire alarm sounded. We were a very anxious town for a while. A large number of men from the army were sent in to help us. It looked strange to see the army men and their trucks moving up and down our streets. We thank them for their help. On May 22 God saw fit to change the wind and the fire turned back, an answer to many prayers. Can we just say we were lucky? No, I’m sure God heard the prayers of His people and we should be sincere in our thanks to Him.

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Levi Reimer (left) with wife Elizabeth (facing camera) and son Daniel, all of Germany, at the Winnipeg International Airport upon their arrival on July 1. ARRIVE ON FURLOUGH

rhe Vang family.

REFUGEE FAMILY ARRIVES

Birch River, Man.: April 23-27 we had a series of deeper life meetings. Pastor Dave Harms from Roseisle gave the message each evening. Both Mr. and Mrs. Harms spoke to us on what it has meant to them to lead a Christian life. May God bless them as they continue to work for Him. The Vang family from Laos arrived in Winnipeg on May 13, on their way to Birch River. They were met there by Mr. and Mrs. Ben Kroeker and Mr. and Mrs. Lome Friesen. They picked up another family from Riverton who could speak to our refugees in their own language. The family of four are Seng Vang, his wife Delor, their 2 ‘/2-year-old son Yee Ling, and a seven-month-old daughter. Ma Nee La. They have settled in very well and have a very nice garden, planted in oriental style. Seng is kept busy working and is eager to be independent. The Vangs are supported by the EMC Church in Birch River. On May 11 two tiny babies were dedicated to the Lord. They were Sharon Rose, daughter of Pastor and Mrs. Ralph Unger, and Kenton Dale, son of Harold and Laura Thiessen. Dale Reimer, who attended Caronport Bible Institute last winter, is now doing carpentry work in Norway House, Manitoba. If anyone would care to send him a card to Box 10 there. I’m sure it would be much appredated. The latter part of April and the month of May was a very bad time for fires which ravished the timber lands to the east and in the Porcupine Mountains to the west of us as well as to the north. At one point we were notified to pack our belongings and be JULY 18, 1980

Steinbach EMC: Arriving in Canada for a year of furlough were EMC missionaries, Levi and Elizabeth Reimer and son Daniel. The Reimers have been engaged in church planting work in northern Germany. While The extension committee of the Fisher in Steinbach they will be living at 417 First Branch church planning for DVBS. Left to Street in Steinbach. Telephone number is right: Nick Plett, Bert Dueck, Pastor Peter 326-6674. Mr. and Mrs. Henry T. Braun of 36 Pine K. Friesen, Ed Reimer. Crescent in Steinbach, together with their eleven children and their spouses, celebrated JOINT SUNDAY SCHOOL PICNIC their golden wedding anniversary on Tues­ day, July 8, in the Steinbach E.M. Church. Fisher Branch, Man.: We were delighted Many friends had come for the occasion, to have the people of the Hodgson ChapelThe Gideon Bible Plan wasavailable for join us for a Sunday school picnic on June those who wanted to donate Bibles to the Gi23. First on the agenda was a hearty game of deon organization. baseball, plus some other sports for the younger children. Next we all enjoyed the barbecued chicken for supper. After that each class contributed something towards an outdoor service. The short talk by Rev. Bill FRIESEN - DUECK: Peter Friesen of Peters was enjoyed by all. Wawanesa, Man. and Helen Dueck of Win­ A number of people motored to Mennville nipeg were married on June 19, 1980 at the on July 3 to attend a camp workers training Fort Garry M.B. Church with Karl Goertzen of Winnipeg officiating. The couple is making session. their home in Wawanesa, Man. Those of us who motored to Steinbach to KROEKER — REIMER: Vern, son of Rev. and attend the EMC convention were richly Mrs. Jake Kroeker of Riverton, Man., was blessed. married to Anne, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. All of us are excitedly waiting to read the Henry Reimer of Riverton, Man., on June 21, book Four Buds in His Bouquet which is to 1980. The wedding took place at the Menn­ be published in July. This book, written by ville E.M. Church with Rev. Jake Kroeker, Betty Barkman of Pansy, is a real life story father of the groom, officiating. The couple is making their home in Riverton. of the Elvin Reimer family. I believe God has become nearer and more precious to each one of us during the time we witnessed the four Reimer children suffering and then goBICYCLE TRIP ing to their eternal home. We were happy to have Mr. and Mrs. A father and son, plus two other young John Peters and Neoma at our morning serpeople, embarked on a bicycle trip to Florida vice on Father’s Day. Mrs. Peters reported which is to take in 2000 miles for the father of the Christian Education at the He and 4500 miles for The c.',Z_ Z.— ZZ -----------classes -----------‘ " the ,young„ .persons. ” intention is to invite promoters to give a per des Chenes School. Mr. Peters served with a mile donation to raise money for the building challenging message entitled, “Is God Speakproject of the Evangelical Fellowship ing Today?” Rev. Jake Kroeker of Mennville served at Church (EMC) of Steinbach. Inquiries may F, our morning service on June 29. On July 2 be directed to Evangelical Fellowship Abe and Olga Friesen, who are planning to Church, Box 2758, Steinbach, Man. ROA serve at the Black Forest Academy in Ger­ 2A0. many, shared at our church.

Weddings

PAGE 15

Around

World ABOUT 75 PERSONS were present for the groundbreaking ceremony at the Union Gospel Mission on Wednesday morning, June 4, at the corner of Princess and Higgins Street in Win­ nipeg. President of the Board, R. T, Rankin, and Executive Director, Peter Dyck, officiated. (It was not a matter of turning the first sod as that had already been done!) Prayer was offered by Albert Edgar of the Board of Trustees. A majority of the Board members were present. The singing of “Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow” brought the service to a conclusion. The contractor is Bill Martens of MBS Construction Co. The architect is Rudy Friesen. Without major setbacks the building should be ready for occupancy come fall. PLANS ARE UNDERWAY for making the United Nations International Year for Disabled Persons 1981 a memorable year, and an MCC (Canada) VSer will play a key role. During the last week in June 4,000 participants from 101 countries gathered in Winnipeg for the 14th World Congress of Rehabilitation. One of the participants, Henry Enns, of Winnipeg, was appointed chairman of the Steering Committee, to form a world coalition of persons with disabilities. In May of this year Enns began a VS term with MCC (Canada) as a resource person in the Han­ dicapped Awareness Program. He is available to the Mennonite constituency for workshops and is prepared to provide suggestions and information on integrating the physically disabled into society. Enns has been disabled through arthritis since 1966.

KENYA HAS BANNED all smoking in public places, in response to the World Health Organization's recently launched compaign on smoking and health. The Kenyan initiative was launched by health minister Mr Arthur Magugu, who says that cigarette smoking in public places is a nuisance. Many Kenyans wondered how the ban would be enforced. Their doubts were answered when Mr Magugu ordered police to arrest and prosecute people who violated the ban. Ministry of Health officials hope that the managements of public places covered by the ban will play a leading role in implementing it. The ministry is preparing to launch an aggressive campaign through the state-owned radio and TV, public lec­ tures and other media to educate people about the dangers of smoking. “Control of smoking,” says WHO, “could do more to improve health and prolong life than any other single action in the field of preventive medicine.” But reducing cigarette consumption is not merely a matter of education. More legislation and enforcement may have to be exercised if governments are to help people make the choice between smoking and health.

man, shared with the MCC (Canada) Executive Committee meeting in Winnipeg June 12 and 13 that their goal for constituency contributions had been met on the last day of the fiscal year. This, of course, was possible because of the sacrificial response by farmers in the western provinces. In 1981 the Food Bank will have completed its initial five-year term of operation. An evaluation, ap­ proved at this meeting, will be done in order to provide the information needed to decide upon its future mandate. Reports from the Canadian Inter­ national Development Agency (CIDA) even now indicate its continuing support for this program.

will be requested during the next three months. Organizers of the sale have set a goal to raise $30,000 for Mennonite Central Committee, which will go towards food shipments to Nicaragua, blankets for refugees in Pakistan and Somalia, and a well digging project in Upper Volta, Africa. In addition to the sale items, there will be food concessions, and home-baked sale items. The day will begin with a worship service featuring the Niverville Male Chorus. The chairman of the Sale Committee is Tim Kroeker of Landmark, a member of the MCC Manitoba Board.

SOME 24 PEOPLE gathered in Guelph, On­ tario on June 23 to begin some preliminary dis­ cussions regarding the need for a Mennonite con­ gregation in that city. Letters of invitation went to Western Ontario Mennonite Conference, the United Mennonite and the Brethren in Christ and Mennonite Conference of Ontario bodies to invite them to participate in the initial meeting. Persons from the three Mennonite groups were present. The Brethren in Christ indicated that they have no families in the area. — Mennonite Reporter

THE TASK FORCE on Mental Retardation, estblished by the Foundation Series Publishers’ Council, held its first meeting May 21 to 22 in Chicago. The task force worked on its purpose, which is to develop a proposal to meet the felt needs of all the Mennonite, Brethren in Christ and Church of the Brethren bodies with regard to the Christian education and congregational life con­ cerns for the mentally retarded. The need for this project arose out of the grow­ ing concern of parents and others that the spiritual, social and emotional needs of many mentally retarded persons are not being met by the churches. The Task Force feels strongly that the needs of the mentally retarded cannot be met solely in Sun­ day School. Rather there should be broad par­ ticipation from many members of the congrega­ tion in the life of the handicapped person. Integrating the retarded child or adult into the total life of the congregation was seen as a priori­ tyTo implement this action will require additional training of teachers, pastors, church leaders and congregations toward understanding more effec­ tive ways of relating with retarded persons.

EMPLOYMENT AND IMMIGRATION Minister Lloyd Axworthy announced on July 4 that Canada will admit the Vashchenko and the Chmykhalow families now staying at the American Embassy in Moscow if permission is obtained for them to leave the U.S.S.R. Both families are members of the Pentecostal Believers of Chernogorsk. “Many Canadians have shown concern for the plight of these families and have offered to help them, if they are able to emigrate,” said Mr. Ax­ worthy. The families have indicated they are only will­ ing to leave the American Embassy if they are granted permission to leave the Soviet Union and proceed to a Western country where they feel they would be able to follow their religious beliefs more freely. “Because of the humanitarian considerations, I am hopeful that we will be successful in achieving a solution satisfactory to all concerned,” said the Minister. THE LANDMARK, and community Mennonite churches in Manitoba have put plans into action for an MCC Relief Sale this fall. The date set is Saturday, October 4th, at the Landmark Arena and grounds, 20 miles southeast of Win­ nipeg. Donations of quilts and handicrafts are already being collected. Donations of livestock and new items from the surrounding business community

MARCH 2, 1980, marked the inaugural broad­ cast of a daily hour-long program from Bonaire to China. Dr. Freed and the Board members joined the staff in Bonaire as the first broadcast from the Caribbean island was beamed over the South Pole into China. The program can be heard in China at 6:30 a.m. Taking into consideration the great desire among the Chinese people to learn English, the program teaches the English language at several different levels, using the Bible as a source. A clear Gospel message in the Mandarin language concluded the broadcast. The transmission also makes a “bounce" into Brazil. A significant number of people living in Brazil are Chinese and they will also be able to tune in the broadcasts. Reports of a clear reception in China have already been received.

THE MCC (CANADA) Food Bank, in opera­ tion since only 1976, has shown continued growth. Irwin Friesen, Food Bank board chair-

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THE MESSENGER

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