The Messenger August 15, 1980 by The Messenger

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• Freedom From Worry • Church Profile

• Musically Speaking

"Doobts! AnKiefy!

Freedom from Worry! by Dr. Harold D. Burkholder EVERY DAY PEOPLE die who might have enjoyed a longer life and good health if only they had learned not to worry. Worry tends to destroy the body. It can cause heart attacks, kidney problems, stomach ulcers as well as strokes. According to Webster’s New Collegiate dictionary, to worry means “to annoy, harrass or to torment something by tearing it with the teeth.” Worry will cripple the worrier. PAGE 2

It will chew at us until it tears us apart. Medical doctors tell us that 80 per cent of the sicknesses which show up in their offices are unrelated to organic causes. Patients’ problems seem to be related to the various at titudes they express toward others as well as toward circumstances of life. In a recent newspaper editorial en titled, “Worry needs to be Scheduled,” a husband turned to his wife and said.

“What are we going to do about the Ocelot?” “What should we be doing about it?” replied the wife. “Worrying about him. He is becoming extinct,” said the husband. “I know,” she replied, “but there are so many things to worry about these days. I’ve been worrying about the dented cans on my shelf, wondering whether they are safe to use. I have also been worrying about my deodorant soap, whether it protects mp all day or just clings to my THE MESSENGER

glasses. Why don’t you worry about the Ocelot?” Finally, she added, “Unless we set up some kind of a schedule, we just aren’t going to get around to all the things we should be worrying about.” Worry! Worry! Worry! This is the story of many a life. According to the Bible this problem was very real in every era of Biblical history. In this article it is my purpose to help us recognize the problem as well as to suggest solutions to the problem. RECOGNIZING THE PROBLEM In Matt. 6:25 Jesus turned to His disciples and said, “Take no thought for your life, what ye will eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than food, and the body than raiment?” These words were addressed to the disciples during the early part of our Lord’s public ministry. It appears that these men, who had left family, friends, finances, were beginning to worry about food, drink and dress. When Jesus saw what was taking place. He literally commanded them (imperative mood) to “stop worrying.” It is of interest to note that our Lord had to deal with the same problem near the end of His public ministry. In John 14:1, He said, “Let not your heart be troubled.” What was it that caused these men to experience a spiritual heart attack? According to chapter 13 our Lord had just informed them that He would soon leave them. This truth really “shook them up.” In other words, the disciples were real first cen tury “worry warts.” How did Jesus handle the problem? He applied the principle of Matthew six by command ing them (imperative mood) to “stop worrying.” A lady told her doctor that she was sure she had a certain deadly disease. “That’s impossible,” replied the doctor, “because the disease you are talking about never has any symptoms.” “That’s exactly why I’m worried,” she said. “You see, I really feel wonderful.” Many of us worry about things that never exist and never come to pass. To all such, our Lord would say, “Stop your worrying.” The church at Philippi was also plagued by this problem. In Philippians 4:6 the Apostle Paul addressed them as follows: “Be anxious for nothing.” By using the imperative mood, the Holy Spirit once more com-

AUGUST 15, 1980

mands believers to “stop worrying.” The Apostle Peter recognized the presence of this problem and penned the following words: “Casting all your cares upon Him for He careth for you” (I Peter 5:7). According to the New Testament (Matt. 6, John 5, Phil. 4, and I Pet. 5), worry and anxiety was the lot of all believers. Since each text appears in the imperative, we must conclude that Christians must stop worrying. In fact, not to obey the commands of the Scripture is to sin against God. In other words, WORRY is a sin. Many people evade the problem by saying, “We never worry, but we do become concerned.” Concern is not a sin. However, a concerned person is able to commit his problems to the Lord and go to sleep. On the other hand, a worried person lies awake most of the night. As stated before, many believers have gone to heaven ahead of time simply because they worried themselves to death. God says, “Don’t do it!” Having recognized the problem let us examine the context of the very same Scriptures in order to discover;

GOD’S SOLUTION FOR WORRY A careful examination of Matthew 6 and John 14 reveals the first solution, namely

1. A VITAL FAITH IN GOD In John 14:1 Jesus said: “Believe in God, believe also in me.” Such faith or belief goes beyond the reciting of a creedal statement. Creedal statements are good; however, unless the truth of that statement has gripped our heart and produced a vital relationship with the Father and the Son, it will do very little to deliver us from the sin of worry. To believe in God means to take Him at His Word. This is a faith which rests in the promises of God. Such a faith will deliver you from the problem of worry. I challenge you to “believe God.” He will never let you down. Another solution is:

2. LET GO AND LET GOD This truth is expressed in I Peter 5:7. “Casting all your care upon Him for He careth for you.” The word “care” literally means to worry. Peter challenges the believer to “cast all his worries on the Lord, for He worries for you.” Since He who never slumbers nor sleeps, is willing to do this for us, then why should we lie awake all night

worrying about our problems? There is no sense in both of us staying awake. Let us stop worrying and trust Him to do it for us. A certain widow had successfully raised a very large family. She had six children of her own, plus twelve which she adopted. Through it all she remained very stable and strong. One day a newspaper reporter interviewed her. When asked for the secret of her success she replied: “I managed so well because I’m in a partnership.” “What do you mean?” asked the reporter. She replied, “Many years ago I said ‘Lord, I’ll do the work and you do the worrying,’ and I haven’t had an anx ious care since.” Beloved! When we put our cares into His hands. He puts His calm into our hearts. The real solution to the problem of worry, set forth in I Peter 5:7, is related to the word “cast.” To most people, this word means, “to pick up and throw.” However, the word literal ly means “to roll off.” If all our problems were small, then to “pick up and throw” would be relatively simple. However, since many problems are so large, it would be impossible to re spond to such a command. Why is it that the burdens of life cling to us? Why do they remain on our back? It’s because we are hanging on to them. According to I Peter 5:7, we are to let go and let God. Unless we release our grip the load cannot “roll off.” The final solution to worry is:

3. PRAYER After Paul commanded the believers at Philippi to “stop worrying” (Phil. 4:6), he added the words: “But (con junction of contrast) in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” The prayer requests, which we pre sent to God, are related to the com mand: “Stop worrying!” As believers, we are encouraged to “take our burdens to the Lord and leave them there.” “Said the robin to the sparrow, I should really like to know, Why these anxious human beings Fret about arid worry so.

Said the sparrow to the robin, I imagine it must be. That they have no heavenly Father Such a.s cares for you and me." (author unknown) ■ PAGE 3

area and begin to fellowship and help along in the work at Arden. Kola, Prairie Rose, Steinbach and Rosenort were some of the places they came from. Some bought farms and pursued their occupa tion as farmers. Others maybe would rent a property, live there and assist the church. Another important milestone was reached when the event which we listed at the head of this article took place - a church in town. It was fitting that the of ficiating ministers, Elmer Hamm, pastor of the MacGregor church, and deacon, Henry Thiessen, should turn the first sod on this occasion. Both had been with the work from the beginning. This occasion then resulted in a base ment being constructed and a church building, purchased in southern Manitoba, moved on to this foundation.

The Arden, Manitoba E.M. Church, June 1980.

CHURCH PROFILE

The Arden E.M. Church By Dave Schellenberg For some of the residents of Arden, Man. Saturday, October 17, 1964 maybe was just another day. But for a small group of Christians it was a day of rejoicing. It was the day of groundbreaking for a new church building in town. One says “town” because the old church was situated in the country some three miles north of the village. But to go back to the beginning of the work we must go back another almost ten years (1955). It was in that year that certain brethren from the district came to one of our EMC deacons from the MacGregor church and requested that we start a work at Arden. This was then brought to the pastor of the MacGregor church and resulted in services being started, at first in a home. The work was blessed by God. We see this when 19 brethren and sisters were

present at a communion service which was held in July 1957. In the beginning the services were held jointly by the EMC and the EMMC. The MacGregor church had the oversight of the EMC. There was an active work, Reports indicate, for instance, that there was an average attendance of 40-50 in Sunday school. There were baptisms. Bible studies and prayer meetings were held every Friday. VBS was held in summer with a reported good attendance, A group regularly sang in the nearby Neepawa Hospital. In 1959, with assistance from other EMC churches, an old schoolhouse was purchased and moved onto a lot donated by a local couple, about three miles north of Arden. The early ’60s saw different couples fgrom other EMC churches move into the

This building, some three miles from Arden, served as the first EMC church building at Arden. PAGE 4

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A piece of ground for a new church is ~ to be claimed at Arden, Man. (Early six ties) Left to right: Wilbert Kroeker, N. A. Dueck and Harold Dueck.

This is the present building but it has un dergone further renovations since that time. The church continued to be served by MacGregor and for a period after 1959 by the Portage la Prairie minister. They did not yet have their own pastor. When the Hamms left MacGregor the new pastor, H.P. Dyck, continued the service. But happily this was to change when on September 17, 1967 John Toews was installed as pastor of the Arden church. Victor Unger was chairman at this time. Official organization of the Arden church took place on July 15, 1965 with the following being accepted into the church by Mr. Henry P. Dyck, pastor of the MacGregor church: Mr. and Mrs. Peter K. Plett, Mr. and Mrs. Nick A. Dueck, Mr. and Mrs. Wilbert Kroeker, Mr. and Mrs. Victor Unger, Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Plett, Leslie Plett, John Plett, Peter Plett, Kenneth Plett, Dennis Plett, Harold THE MESSENGER

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Taken at the old Arden church likely in the early sixties.

Dueck, Abe Dueck, Elfrieda Ducck, Leonard Dueck. The coming of the Toewses to Arden was a happy occasion. It was their first pastoral couple. The first year Mr. Toews took on this duty full time. The second year he pursued his vocation as a public school teacher part-time. After this he taught full-time, as well as leading the church. Their pastorate was to encompass a period of more than ten years. Then in 1978 Mr. Toews accepted a call to the Swift Current, Sask. E.M. Church. On July 23, 1978 the Arden church gathered for an appreciation day for the Toewses. Friends came from the community, neighbouring towns and as far away as Winnipeg. On August 3 the Toewses left for Saskatchewan and their new pastorate.

Since the Toewses left, the church has Art and Margaret Plett and their been without a pastor, although they have tried to get one. Maybe this is what children, Bradley, Dwight, Heather and prompted a deacon election in 1979, to get Cynthia. interim leadership. June 17, 1979 was another important day — the day when a local brother, Art Plett, was elected as deacon. Brother Mrs. Leona Rempel, Messenger reporter; Plett now assumes the position of interim Alvin Unger, MDS representative. leader. He and his wife Margaret and Arden is situated on P.R. 352, some 100 their family life on a farm some six miles northwest of Winnipeg. According miles from Arden. A commissioning ser- to a 1978-’79 figure it had a population of vice into the deacon ministry for the 130. Some of the church people live in Pletts came on November 18, 1979. The town; others are scattered in the sur Pletts have four children, Bradley, rounding area. Dwight, Heather and Cynthia. Win. will be the next pastor at Arden? I’m sure the whole membership is anxiously, even impatiently, waiting for Open Forum that announcement. So far no one has come to step into this position. Maybe the Open Forum is a journal published Lord will call someone who is reading by an ad hoc committee within the these lines. EMC to encourage open and accept In the 25 years since this church was ing dialogue within the community of started many people have come and gone WATCH PRAY.... believers. from the church. We would love to name The first issue was published ...MIOPD IS COMING some who have left their mark but are August 15. To receive this copy and hesitant to start for fear of leaving the next three issues send $5.00 to the someone out. But the Lord knows and will cCOMMUMITM-. following address: reward each one individually. According to the 1979 EMC Yearbook Open Forum BIBLE CHURCH SUNDAV SCHOOL 10AM ■■ l^e chuTch has 33 members and the Sun311 Machray Ave. woRSHiP SEPWE-iiAM Ib day school enrollment is 53. The present Winnipeg, Man. VICITORd WELCOIHtE I'* membership is 28 and the Sunday school R2W 1A3 enrollment is 40. The main occupation is farming. Younger members work away from home. Young Couple Needed Among the other people presently ser ving in various capacities at Arden are Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship the following: Wilbert Kroeker, needs a young couple to serve as secretary-treasurer; Andy Penner, chair youth leaders. Some musical ability man and Sunday School superintendent; would be desirable. Reynold Toews, youth leader: Neil Contact: John Koop, Box 377, * Rempel, song leader; Leander Unger and Vanderhoof, B.C. VOJ 3A0, Ph. 567Arthur Plett, deacon, is the interim Rey Toews, assistant song leaders; Victor 9389 leader of the Arden EMC congregation. Unger and Rey Toews, Carberry Camp;

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 15, 1980

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a Musically Cp Sneaking By Don Thiessen

We are happy to feature a new series on Musically Speakiny. The articles are ayain submitted by Don Thiessen for the EMC Music Committee. Brother Thiessen is on the faculty of the Winnipey Bible Colleye, Otterbume, Mani toba. He is a minister of the Ridyeivood EMC conyreyation.

CONGREGATIONAL SINGING

Me, sing?! Yes, you! We all realize that not every member of the congregation sings equally well. Not all members of a choir or ensemble sing equally well but everyone can sing to some extent. It is in congregational singing that all of us can and should sing lustily and without inhibitions since it is to be a corporate worship experience. It is here that we can lift our voices together in audible praise that can be a help to us in uplifting us spiritually. It is not right for anyone to give the excuse, “I can’t sing” because that is a relative statement and does not apply here. I would rather see (hear) a person drone a whole song in a monotone (if that is all he is capable of) than to sit staring into space while everyone else joins in. It would be worthwhile to consider some of the Scriptures that deal with the singing of God’s people. In Exodus 14 we are told of the Israelites’ escape from the pursuing Egyp tians and in chapter 15 of how they break forth into a seemingly spontaneous and exuberant song of praise to God for their deliverance. First Moses and the men sang and later Miriam and the ladies followed with singing and danc ing. These people had something to sing about. They were singing to the Lord and thanking him for a specific deed and in this way reminding themselves of what he had done. Too often we think only of the fact that we are singing to each other and forget that we are singing to the Lord as well. Furthermore, in the Old Testament we have a whole book (Psalms) devoted to songs which were sung at that time. This in itself indicates to us the importance that was placed

Letters MESSENGER APPRECIATED IN PARAGUAY

Like many other missionaries, we very much appreciate receiving the Messenger by airmail. Thank you. We have just finished reading the May 23 issue. We are very pleased with the many ar ticles, from P. K. Friesen’s “Walking in the Spirit Today” to James Gilbert’s letter to the U.S. Draft Board. We heartily agree with Mrs. Freda Schroeder’s article, “Never Too Young,” where she tells how she got her five-year-old son to throw away a toy revolver. Many of the things we permit our children to do have a far greater impact on their future than we often realize. If we really believe and hold to the peace teaching which James Gilbert suggests is scriptural, why would we permit or even encourage our children to learn war and killing with the toys we give or permit them to have? Childhood years are very im pressionable. Therefore let us choose wisely

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on singing in that time. Composers such as David, Solomon, Hernan, Asaph and others contributed to the repertoire of the time as we have composers doing now. In the New Testament brief references are made to music. When Jesus and his disciples had eaten the passover feast, they sang together and went up to the Mount of Olives (Matt. 26:30). Paul also gives some brief exhortations regarding singing in Eph. 5:19 and Col. 3:16. These passages speak of the function of music as being that of fellowship in teaching and admonishing each other, and of expressing ourselves to God for personal edification. The instruction, therefore, is that our singing is to be directed to ourselves, to our fellow Christian and to God. Each dimension must be present as we sing. Lastly, it might be beneficial for us to note some suggestions (here given in an abridged form) for con gregational singing that were given by Wesley some years ago. They are forthright and lucid giving further occasion for thought and action in the matter of singing. 1. Sing the songs exactly as they are printed, and if you have learned to sing them otherwise, unlearn it as soon as you can. 2. Sing ALL. See that you join with the congregation as frequently as you can. If it is a cross to you, take it up, and you will find it a blessing. 3. Sing lustily and with a good courage. Beware of sing ing as if you were half dead, or half asleep; but lift up your voice with strength. 4. Sing modestly. Do not bawl, so as to be heard above or distinct from the rest of the congregation, but strive to unite your voices together. 5. Sing in tune. Whatever time is sung be sure to keep with it. Do not run before nor stay behind it, but attend close to the leading voices, and move therewith exactly as you can; and take care not to sing too low. 6. Above all sing spiritually. Have an eye to God in every Word you sing. Aim at pleasing Him more than yourself, or any other creature. When you get the opportunity, sing. It’s not just for you — it’s also for others and for God.

when we give toys to our children. Such wise actions, based on the teaching of God’s Word, can have a great part in forming the convictions of our next generation. Peter and Elma Reimer Tres Palmas, Asuncion Paraguay

NOTES OF PRAISE AND PRAYER CHURCH OF THE OPEN DOOR

Greetings to our many friends among the readers of The Messenger. Because of our kinship in Christ and our common task of sharing the Good News we are encouraged to share our joys and concerns in order that you may more intelligently pray for us. The work of the inner-city church is never easy and when the group is as small as ours is, it means a close fellowship but it also means a lot of work shared regularly by all. We praise our Lord for keeping us united in our love and for the faithfulness of our people. The special children’s rallies in May were well attended with many decisions for Christ registered and many contacts made for Sun day school and clubs. Canadian Sunday

School Mission workers were the resource people. In Vacation Bible School, July 9-16, again we thank God for so many from other Cont'd. on p. 12

CONTRIBUTORS: Dr. H. D. Burkholder is known through his long-time connection with Grace College of the Bible, Omaha, Nebraska. He was president from 1951-1955 and director of the Pastoral Ministries department from 19601974. The article, “Freedom From Worry,” is reprinted by permission from Grace Tidings. Copyright 1978 by Grace College of the Bible, Inc. Joe and Olga Reimer (Blumenort) are ser ving in South Africa with TEAM. They are involved in maintenance work at the Nosvold Hospital. Frank and Mary Braun are pastoring the church at the Keeseekoose Indian Reserve in the Kamsack area. Ed and Joy Loewen (Pleasant Valley) are serving at the Bach Christian Hospital in Pakistan. PHOTOS: Cover shows a scene on Highway 12 South; page 2, Ron Kroeker. Arden Church by the editor. THE MESSENGER

From the Editor CONGRATULATIONS

We wish to congratulate Betty (Mrs. Leonard) Barkman upon the publication of her book, 4 Buds In His Bouquet. It is the story of Elvin and Tina Reimer who experienced the loss of their four young children to a rare heart disease and their spiritual resources which enabled them to cope with these losses. The Reimers are members in the Fisher Branch E.M. Church. Mrs. Barkman, the writer of the story, lives in Pansy, Man. where her husband is the pastor of the Pansy (EMC) Chapel. The book is now available and we believe it will afford a wide readership. See also ad in another part of this issue.

WHAT THEY SAID ABOUT OUR ANNUAL CONVENTION We want to continue one more time on the topic of the an nual EMC convention. You have heard my comments and interpretations. Now we want to listen to a few others whom I have asked to give their observations. The first one I have here has high praise for the fellowship aspect: “As in other years the highlight of the annual convention was the meeting of God’s people from all over the Conference. I am so encouraged by this fellowship that it exceeds any other considerations.” Another one in the same vein felt it was a good time to meet friends and acquaintances. One said, “The Sunday faspa was a good opportunity for renewing acquaintances and meeting new people.” One sister commented very positively on this aspect of the convention when she said, “Faspa time on Sunday was a precious time to share with many friends.” In the light of the foregoing, I wonder, are we putting our priorities in the right place with the kind of tightly organiz ed program that we have? Is fellowship after all not impor tant? If this brief intermission for fellowship of about two hours on Sunday is so precious, could we not somehow ex tend this period? How? I think I have an answer! There is no reason why we could not have the third message of the convention on Sunday morning, bring a sack lunch and have fellowship from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. over lunch. Then I would propose a change of format for the afternoon session and make it a celebration for the whole family, young and old, with testimonies, singing, sharing (a roving mike would be needed but I believe this could be a small matter) and prayer. After this we could resume the normal format offaspa and the evening service at 7:00 p.m. The workshops were mentioned by more than one person. Not enough time, two stated. There was also a question on the general worth of workshops. A personal comment might be the disparity of atten dance. But this I suppose is always a factor. One gets a back room, another the main auditorium. I’m sure all made a lot of preparation and all should have had a good hearing. But I suppose it is hard to get away from the variables. Of course, all mentioned the speaker or the topic. This was basically positive. “Having a Presbyterian speaker can broaden our ex posure to other than Mennonite thinking.” “I appreciated the emphasis given to an important responsibility of the believer and the church.” “The speaker was down to earth and easy to understand.” “Dr. Oliver did an excellent job.” AUGUST 15, 1980

“I liked his concept of the church and how evangelism relates to it. Coming from another tradition was a plus in many ways.” “Dr. Oliver’s talks were practical, interesting and if put into practice we should see our churches grow.” At the same time some comments were made which in dicated a bit of uneasiness from the standpoint of our Anabaptist orientation. Are we consistent if we invite a non-Mennonite speaker? But if we do it in our churches, is there a difference? The ladies’ session also scored good marks (from the lady respondents!) We realize that the brethren would not be there but maybe next time they could ask their wives and also make some appropriate remarks! Here is what they said: “Due to circumstances beyond my control I only got to the ladies’ session for coffee. I heard very good comments about the program, speaker, and testimonies.” “I was encouraged to see so many ladies come to share the ladies’ meeting on Saturday afternoon. The meeting was an inspiration . .. We learned how we can personally grow.” Mostly positive comments were forthcoming on the organizational aspect of the convention. There was praise for the committee in choosing a timely theme. There was a good word for the arrangements com mittee for the way they handled their job. One commented that the displays had been “good.” Then there were some concerns which surfaced which I think I can share for our mutual benefit. One concerned the tight schedule of the Conference Council meeting. “I think the matter of the Conference Council meeting needs some work.” In particular, the person mentioned the fact that the printed reports were already brief and then be ing asked to make it short at Conference Council meeting just was not fair! Then something very significant: “There are other social (and) spiritual issues that need debating and we have put it off long enough!” I agree. When one brother, after some positive comments, ended his remarks with “But somehow something was missing,” you can be sure I read on. “Somehow something was missing,” he said. “I’m not sure what. Was it the music? The singing? Perhaps it was the drab-looking gymnasium? When we promote the con vention, as we did, and gather together hundreds and hun dreds of our EMCers from many places, could we not offer them something more of the tremendous talent that lies within our people? And we’ll give the glory to God!” One respondent was sorry to see so few young people pre sent. He further made the valid observation that neither were there any sessions especially for them, which was true. He felt that we especially needed the energy and vi sion of young people to carry out the challenge. Right again! One writer had a suggestion to make on a youth session. She said, “It might be a good idea to also have an afternoon youth session on Saturday.” Since we had some comments of concern on the general atmosphere of the convention, one respondent, I thought, had a good idea when he suggested posting the convention theme in the auditorium. Good suggestion! I was happy for this frank and honest evaluation of our convention, even though the sampling was small. I believe evaluations like this can give us better, more successful con ventions in the future. - D.S. PAGE 7

Mission Grams Nicaragua Lester Olfert writes, “In April I was finally able to realize one of my main goals for this term, namely to begin Theological Education by Extension. I wanted to have at least two places going simultaneously but because of a number of people leaving from the Morazan church to participate in the literacy program I was only able to start in La Paz. Just after I had the first class I had my back injury which halted the program for six weeks. Now I have only two lessons to go to finish the first book. (There are six in the complete course.)’’ MCC in Nicaragua - Relationships between MCC and the three Anabaptist Conferences in Nicaragua have been strengthened this past year. However, they are still somewhat fragile in some respects, so sensitivity and respect for the local mission and church structures must be extended by MCC at all times. The objective is to walk alongside the church in Nicaragua in a way so it receives necessary support and also is encouraged to discover relevant new models for adapting to the unique political environment in Nicaragua. With God’s help we must be servants. Doris Friesen informs us, “We were privileged to have the Minister of Health speak to us at the health seminar with PROVADENIC recently. He presented the plan the government has for complete health coverage for the country. When asked how the non-governmental organizations would fit into the plan he in dicated that there would still be a place for them, especially since the govern ment did not have the resources to give complete coverage. But these organizations would have to fit into their program. We would need to be in close communication with them so as not to place a clinic in an area where they are about to place one, and thus duplicate resources, while other needy areas remain unattended. “We will need to re-evaluate our program, perhaps be in closer communication with PROVADENIC and try to analyze in what way a small agency like ours would fit into the whole plan. It’s exciting to be part of changes, but we certainly need much wisdom to be able to discern the direction we are to take.” Ecuador Flo Friesen writes, “I’ve been really busy with ALFALIT, a Christian literacy program for adults. In Mera, 10 kilometers from Shell, we have classes three nights a week. Twenty-two students attend, 11 in Level 1 and 11 in Level 2. I have been teaching the Level 1 class. What a challenge and what a reward to teach an adult to read and write! “In Kilometer 31 I teach a class of 12 Quichua Indians. This class meets only once a week, Sunday afternoon. They prove an even greater challenge since Spanish is not their native tongue. Frequently we have to pause for a translation session as the group leader explains in Quichua what I’ve been saying in Spanish.” IFMA Reports Statistics Wheaton, Il (MNS) —Missions belonging to the Interdenominational Foreign Mission Association (IFMA) now sponsor 8465 missionaries, according to IFMA News (Third Issue, 1980). This figure includes 432 short-term missionaries but excludes summer workers and others serving less than one year. The missionaries originate as follows: United States - 5151; Canada - 1168; other countries - 2146. Their places of ministry work out this way: Africa - 2165; Asia and Pacific 2437; Europe - 1060; Latin America - 1833; North America - 970. In addition, 970 persons have “missionary status” but serve in the homeland administration of missions, and 1244 summer workers or others are serving less than one year. Mexico Juarez — The church at Independencia is managing their own DVBS program this year, declining the help of mission personnel. Camp 67 — The school/church building is well on the way in its construction. Local people have given a hand in the building. Some ten to twelve students are expected for the school year. A teacher is needed for this assignment. El Paso, Texas — Three of the church’s young people went to Lubbock, Texas for teacher’s training classes with Child Evangelism Fellowship in July. They are now involved in five-day clubs in the CEF program. Felly, Saskatcheican The Ernest Funks have taken up the pastoral assignment for the Pelly and Arabella churches. The Frank Reimers have returned to Landmark. PAGE 8

Amanda Barkman has returned to Venezuela for another two-year assign ment to teach missionary children in a New Tribes school.

PAKISTAN

For Men Only Lots of Variety! If I would try to describe a typical day for me at Bach Christian Hospital it would be difficult since they are all so different, but there are certain things that happen every day. My workmen start work during the hot season at 6:30 a.m. At that time I give out the work assignments and necessary materials. Then after a quick breakfast I attend a 15-minute devotional period for all Chris tian staff members. Needless to say, I follow up the initial work assignments with on-the-job inspections three or four times a day until I am convinced that everything is running correctly. By mid morning I have gotten a list of maintenance needs and have often been diverted in my activities by little maintenance emergencies. Normally I take time out for brief meetings with our administrator or business manager, deal ing with the administrative aspects of my job. I try to work on special projects like broken hospital equipment in the after noons when things are quieter. Quite a bit of my time is spent in get ting hold of materials either in the nearest town, Abbottabad, or in the city of Rawalpindi. Patience and persistence are needed in getting hold of satisfactory materials or making arrangements. Over the past few months I’ve made seven trips to the electrical office to get hold of a meter for our residential power lines and it still isn’t installed! There is plenty of vareity in this position. About a month ago I supervised getting ready for a funeral of a patient with no living relatives other than her small grandson. After measuring the corpse we built the casket and dug the grave on a rainy day. I THE MESSENGER

get called for killing bugs (by the ladies), for shooting stray dogs wandering around on the compound (I shot three this week!), emergencies at night like no electricity or water, etc. My past auto-mechanic ex perience comes in handy as I take care of the hospital van and electric generator. Right now I am responsible for three gardeners, two carpenters, one plumber, one electrician, one painter, and two labourers. We have been doing mostly repair work for several months now in Pakistani staff quarters. A lot of woodwork has been damaged by water or white ants plus they are badly in need of whitewash, paint and electrical repairs. Besides this we get orders for crutches, cabinets, stools, and just a few days ago a wooden leg for a fellow who had his leg amputated! I have to make practically all the decisions in our department; even the most minor ones are left up to me. The workmen aren’t as qualified as I would like them to be, and with my limited building experience and being faced with new methods and materials, this job is a challenge and a learning experience. I feel as if my contacts with various shopkeepers are good evangelistic oppor tunities. Even so I desire to be somewhat more involved in evangelism and Bible teaching with men patients. That will be easier once our former maintenance man returns so we can divide the respon sibilities and both be involved in evan gelism and Bible teaching. As the pressures and problems of the job hit me, I am aware more and more that I need to depend on God for strength, wisdom, and patience to carry on effec tively. So please continue to pray for us here in Pakistan. Ed Loewen SINECIO ROMERO, elected leader of the Chulupi (Convencion de las Iglesias Evangelicas Chulupies) conference, died on June 10, 1980, as a result of a collision of his motorcycle with a truck. Although one leg was amputated in an effort to save his life, he had lost too much blood on the way in to the hospital riding in the back of a truck. Romero died nine hours after the accident. He leaves a wife, Rosa and a son, Faustino. He is a graduate of the three-year course in the Bible Institute in Asuncion. Missionaries Gerhard and Irma Hein write that they have found no one who could translate the Bible so precisely as Romero. They were working together on a translation of the Old Testament when the accident oc curred. Romero was buried on June 11 in Betania, his own village, near Valve Sanga. Between 1,500-2,000 people attended the funeral. Words of comfort and encouragement were given in Chulupi, Spanish and German on behalf of a brother who was greatly loved and appreciated. — MB News Service

AUGUST 15. 1980

Baptism and organization at the Keesee Koose Fellowship Chapel on June 15, 1980. Front row (left to right): Rosie Musqua, Jeanette Severight, Mary Braun. Back row (left to right): Milton Fast, Frank Braun, Henry Kornelsen. KAMSACK, SASK.

News from Keeseekoose Church Organized Those of you who have not had close touch with us will at times have been wondering what is happening in Kamsack and area. We who are involved will have to say that we’ve been slow in informing. Please forgive. June 15 was the day when Rosie Mus qua and Jeanette Severight were baptized and the church at Keeseekoose Reserve was organized. Frank and I also transferred our membership, bringing the membership to four. We were blessed to have Rev. Henry Kornelsen and Rev. Milton Fast with us for this special occasion. In fall we were again able to direct all our time to the Indian people. We had made many home visitations and had conducted cottage meetings, but now we were looking for a home that would have its doors open to regular Sunday morning worship services. The Lord soon led us to that home! It was not only open but the people had been waiting! Here a group soon gathered. The Spirit was sensed as the Word was preached and a number accepted Christ as Saviour. During the winter we found it necessary to look for a church building. By the people’s request the chief gave per mission to renovate an old home for this purpose. Together with the people we worked and were able to move in the Sun day before Easter. The joy of serving and worshipping the Lord, together with those that love Him, is precious. Besides our Sunday morning offerings, the ladies have had rummage and bake sales to help along with the church ex penses. To make special days, such as Mother’s

Day, even more special, we have resorted to the sports ground after the service for a wiener roast and ball game. The children’s club has been well attended. Many children have accepted Jesus and listen attentively, eagerly learning more about their Saviour and Lord. On July 14 thirty-four of us set out by bus and cars for Bible camp at Steep Rock Bay. There was much excitement in the air. For many it was a first! Frank was to feed the spiritual food to the campers and staff for the coming week while Jeanette Severight and I and other helpers would seek to satisfy the physical hunger. Much was received through this week at camp, for which we will continue to praise God. Children accepted Christ, while others asked for help in living for Jesus. All in all more and more people are looking for spiritual help and guidance. The Lord has opened to us many avenues to serve His Word to hungry souls. The Lord willing, starting September 1, we will be in Quesnel, B.C., taking a refresher course in Indian Missions. The children are coming with us so this will mean a change of schools for these fall months. Paul and Lois Thiessen are coming to carry on the work here. We will need your prayers in this ven ture - for the church and the people here, for Paul and Lois as they adjust and for our family as we travel, change schools and take this training. Pray that all this might be for the glory of the Lord Jesus and the building of God’s kingdom. Frank and Mary Braun PAGE 9

African. It is so important that our witness and influence are such that the rest of the staff will also maintain a high Christian morale. We need your prayers. I suppose a plea for workers is something that is strange in some areas of North America where the rate of un employment is climbing. If you are a Christian doctor or someone with a heart for working among African churches then please be assured that you could have a very fulfilling ministry here. Joe and Olga Reimer

WORKERS SAFE

Morison Mgomuzulu, water truck driver; Frank Nyasengo, foreman of the labour crew; Joe and Olga Reimer; and a workman, beside the hospital water truck.

SOUTH AFRICA

Hospital Maintenance - Natal Dryest Year in History It’s just over two months ago since we arrived here in South Africa. Many things here are strange and many things are also similar to Rhodesia (now Zim babwe). One thing that is strange is the language (Zulu). A number of workmen here speak some English though, so we can communicate at least with some. Otherwise we use an interpreter. We use this method when speaking in church. We understand that it is very dry in Manitoba this summer. This is also the case here. The local news media says that this is the dryest year in recorded history for this area (Natal). This also affects us here at the hospital as our 650-feet deep well produces less than half of our water demand. The rest we have to haul by tanker from the Ingwavuma River, 10 miles away. There is a possibility that this river will dry up before the rains come in October or November. The government is presently building a dam about two miles away on a spruit which will be a real help in the years to come. At the dam site there is quite a work force that lives in a makeshift type of a village. We are trying to get regular worship and evangelistic meetings started there. Our senior doctor. Dr. Douglas Taylor (brother to Ken Taylor who is the author of the Living Bible Paraphrase), is leaving us now after 32 years at this place. The load of the Medical Superintendent falls PAGE 10

into the hands of Dr. Kenneth Gamble of Swift Current, Sask. He, together with two Christian army doctors, Miss Ardith Johnson who is a nurse, and the two of us, are the only foreigners on the 200-bed hospital’s work force. The rest are all

ALL MENNONITE CENTRAL Com mittee workers in Bolivia are safe in the wake of a July 17 military coup and continued fighting there, but the effect of the takeover on the kind of community development which MCC is involved in is still uncertain. Bolivia has had 189 coups in its 155 years of independence, but the latest may prove to be more serious than other recent ones. The coup was well-planned, brutally efficient and especially significant because prospects seemed good for a democratic civilian ' ■ _ " 1 an election June 29. The U.S. State Department, which has encouraged the move toward free elections, said the election was Bolivia’s fairest in years. A moderate leftist, Silas Zuazo, won 40 percent of the vote for president. Although the lack of a majority meant Congress would make a final decision on the presidency, the parties of the two other candidates with a significant showing were on the verge of agreeing to a reformist coalition government with Zuazo at its head. Hearing this the military moved swiftly to remove interim President Lydia Gueiler Tejada, claiming that Zuazo is a communist.

TEACHERS WANTED The Mennville Private School requires teachers for the coming school year for the elementary and the high school. Interested persons please contact Peter Dueck, Box 373, Riverton, Man. Phone: 378-2715.

EMC NURSES’ FELLOWSHIP Date; Friday, September 19, 1980 Time: 7:30 p.m. Place: Pleasant Valley E.M. Church Topic: Death and Dying Speakers: Mary Braun - “Relating to the Family of a Dying Patient” Lena Harder - “Death in the Family as Compared to Death in Another Culture” Margaret Reimer - “Leading questions to help open conversation of death and Christ with the dying patient” Special singing by a group of nurses with Lena Brandt in charge. An offering will be taken for a special project to be decided on. Lunch and discussion of the evening’s topic will follow. All nurses and student nurses are invited!

THE MESSENGER

Messenger News ’ Israelites. Rosella Bartel has a special gift for storytelling. She kept the children’s rapt attention (and the older ones too) by using flannelgraph illustrations. LeeRoy Bartel even created a theme song for us, and to sum it all up. Pastor Ed Friesen asked us to realize that whether in happy or difficult situations . . . God is sovereign, and to trust and acknowledge Him as such. We praise the Lord for DVBS! Over 90 .A ■ students participated in crafts, stories, games and singing, with the closing rally taking place on August 1. More than 40 of our young people, together with their leaders, enjoyed a Youth Camp at Manitou on the July 25 weekend. Their devotional theme was Baptismal service at the Rosenort EMC on July 20 (see August 1 issue for report). “Facing Life.” We appreciated having Cornie Balzers Back row (left to right): Pastor Johnny Loewen, Ron Friesen, Ray Eidse, Kerry Bartel, with us on July 2. They shared their joys Mervin Dueck, Rev. Benny Friesen, Rev. Menno Kroeker. Second row (left to right): Michael Siemens, Lester Kroeker, Blake Friesen, Jeff Erhardt, Clareen Bartel, Valorie and concerns about the rapidly growing Quichua mission work in Ecuador. They Dueck. Front row (left to right): Polly Brandt, Yolanda Kroeker, Gloria Funk, Gwen brought warm greetings from Flo Friesen Friesen, Jenny Kroeker. who is teaching missionary children in Ecuador. be sweeter than such a delectable treat. SWEETER THAN HONEY We were also especially happy to see The answer is found in Psalm 19:10, Ron and Judy Goertzen, missionaries to Kleefeld, Man.: August is the time of “God’s laws are more to be desired than the Bahamas, back home with us for year when honey flows sweet and clear in fine gold, yea, sweeter also than honey.” three weeks. Judy related some of their Kleefeld. As you sink your teeth into No wonder that our “Sweeter Than experiences to us at an informal outdoor some warm “shnetki” and fresh golden Honey” group can sing with such Cradle Roll Mothers’ Tea held at the home honey, you wonder, what coupld possibly enthusiasm! They have a desirable of Rosella Bartel. About twenty mothers message to sing about! They were even and their children (25) participated. We more excited when they learned that they praise the Lord for this Cradle Roll out were to go on a singing tour in Germany, reach as well. for the whole month of August, under We will miss the warm fellowship of Youth for Christ. They left on July 29, Peter and Bette Smith who have been and part of their time will be spent with with us for the past five years. An infor the Janz Team. We firmly believe that mal farewell for them took place at the many will be blessed through their sing home of Rev. and Mrs. P.K. Bartel on ing ministry because the message they July 27. We wish them the Lord’s proclaim is indeed “sweeter than honey.” blessings as they continue to serve Him in We praise the Lord for our church Langley, B.C. building which is nearing completion. DVBS Week Due to this building program we do not have Sunday school this summer. Instead Arden, Man.: August 4-8 was chosen we have a multi-age level service from 9:45 to 11:00 each Sunday. These services as our DVBS week. Classes were held in are devoted to the stories of Israel. Moses the evenings from 7-9 o’clock. We again and his people have literally become alive worked together with the Baptist church. to us through the various vivid portrayals The theme this year was “Jesus our and interpretations. Through his solilo Lord.” Teachers and helpers from our church quy, Jerry Koop portrayed Moses and offered many excuses why he did not were Betty Penner, Ed and Esther want to go into the Lord’s service, even Heppner, Jerry and James Neufeld, and though God called him. During one of the Heather and Margaret Plett. It was a great encouragement to see 65 messages, Peter Smith admonished us to be more aware of the burning bushes in children coming to hear God’s Word, our lives. During another service Rev. Ar- quite a number being from non-Christian Kleefeld's "Sweeter Than Honey" nold Fast reminded us that in the same homes. It was also thrilling to see most of group now on a singing tour in Germany way as God prepared Moses for a life of the parents there for the Friday evening together with Director Shirley Reimer. Christian service, so he prepared us for a closing program. We ask your prayer support as we Top to bottom: Esther Neufeld, Jeanette life of dedicated service too. And then struggle through difficulties and seek a Fast, Janice Froese, Rose Fast, Alice there was the puppet show so vividly porpastor. Schellenberg, Marcia Friesen. traying the life of Moses and the

AUGUST 15, 1980

PAGE 11

LETTERS cont’d. churches who responded to our call for teaching staff and then for the response of the children from the area. Vital to much of this work was Tim Froese who came to join our work as fulltime youth pastor in May. We thank God for hearing our prayers. Tim is being well re ceived and is already building a core of young people through Bible studies and per sonal counselling. Pray for wisdom and sen sitivity for him in dealing with many different situations. Pray also that funds will come in for the added financial cost. The hiring of a youth pastor is a step of faith. Knowing the need is there we believe God will supply through this people in helping with the finan cial cost. Last year we had no boys’ and girls’ clubs because of lack of personnel. This is present ly a matter of prayer with us. Pray that those having an understanding of city young peo ple or those willing to learn will come to us in time to begin in early fall. It is the area of youth work that is most promising in break ing through the unbelief and sinfulness that is so pronounced in the core areas of our cities. These are the mission fields of America to day and are crucial to the well-being of our nation as well. Our family camp last year was such a success that again we have planned a weekend camp for August 15-17. More peo ple from our area are planning on coming. Pray that the Holy Spirit will continue to work in the lives of these who come even after the camp is over. For this winter plans are being made for neighbourhood Bible studies as an outreach. We believe the Word of God is powerful enough to bring to conviction and salvation. We will endeavour to have the studies in different homes rather than wait for people to come to our church. A new approach to the mid-week service will be tried which will include a fellowship meal and sharing, followed by approximately 20 minutes each of inspirational input (Bible study); practical training in subjects such as visitation, teaching Sunday school, conduct ing home Bible studies, etc.; small group planning and discussion of problems facing various areas of work. To close the evening, there will be a time of prayer. Thank you for listening and we thank you for praying. God’s hand is not shortened that it cannot save; praise God that His grace is still available. Pastor Pete Peters

Now ready . . .

Four Buds in His Bouquet by Betty Barkman Four Buds in His Bouquet is the story of a family who were severely tested when four of their children succumbed to a rare heart disease. Four Buds in His Bouquet is an account of how El and Tina Reimer, now living in Fisher Branch, Man., again and again received spiritual resources to cope with their situation. It is a book you will find hard to put down once you start it. The book is published jointly by the Canadian Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches and the Evangelical Mennonite Conference and printed by Christian Press in Winnipeg. Available at your Christian bookstore or by writing to the address below. Postpaid $5.00 per copy.

Evangelical Mennonite Conference Board of Education & Publication Box 1268 Steinbach, Man. ROA 2A0

Four Buds in His {

Bouquet

Ed. Church of the Open Door is the name for the former "Euclid Mission" in IVinnipeg, operated for a number of years by the Braeside church. A few years ago the church became an independent, separately organ ized church. PAGE 12

THE MESSENGER