From the writings of an Old Testament prophet this author draws some com parisons for our day.
Misunderstanding God (Habakkuk 1:1-11) First of a two-part series.
by Glen Koop
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fter I have read the newspapers and then sit back and reflect I have a difficult time believing in God. Let me just share a few things that bother my faith. It bothers me when I page through some of the Time or Newsweek magazines from the 1960s and see death, fire, bombs being poured on the small privimtive country of Vietnam. And to think that it was the mighty U.S.A, who is seen as a Christian nation by the world. Then, just recently, I read about the black people, seeking for independence from the whites in South Africa, being mistreated, tortured and killed. And then the mistreatment of Christians, and even children, under the reign of Idi Amin. And another thing, why does God allow a young man, with a wife and five children, who is flying for missions up North, to suddenly be killed in an air plane crash? How can I tell an unbeliever, who is suffering, that when he will turn to God, God will hear and help, for He cares for all of His people; He wants to save all mankind? Having asked the question. Why? I can turn to a few men of the Old Testament whose writings are very helpful to me. One is the man Job and the other, Habakkuk. PAGE 2
I. MISUNDERSTANDING GOD’S INACTION
Habakkuk was writing during the time when Judah was being threatened by the great nation of Babylon under Nebuchadnezzar, The people did not recognize this but God brings it to the attention of Habakkuk (1:6). One must keep in mind that the prophet was a true man of God, asking questions. He was not an ungodly man under oppression. He was a man of con cern for the people of Judah. Habakkuk was like Abraham of Genesis 18:23-33 where he cries for the wicked city of Sodom. He asks God to spare the city for the sake of ten righteous. He can be likened to Moses who pled for Israel when Israel rejected the message of Joshua and Caleb to go and conquer Ca naan. He asks God for patience with Israel and not to destroy them (Num. 14:15-25). When I hear stories like these I have difficulty with my faith. God answered Abraham and Moses, but Habakkuk is still without an answer. This righteous man of God is asking, “How long shall I cry for help? How long shall I cry for help, and thou wilt not hear (listen)?” The rich were getting richer and the
poor were getting poorer. Oh yes, the rich were bringing their offerings. But they thought God would forgive because they had brought offerings and then they could go on living as they had. They could exploit the poor and mistreat their slaves. And Habakkuk asks God how long this kind of atrocity will continue without God’s intervention. Habakkuk has not only asked the ques tion, “How long?” he has also spelled out the injustices and oppression. Habakkuk had told God of all the immoral acts of the people to their own brethren. But the saving God was not acting. This the genuine prophet cannot un derstand. Why is the God of action so in active? Habakkuk wants to know why he has to see all these injustices? The people are acting outrageously toward their fellowmen. There is fighting and quarrelling among the brethren. The judges of the law are weak. In other words, they have no hold on the unjust. The words of this prophet are very con temporary. Looking at the newspapers and hearing some of the concerns of men who are trying to rehabilitate the criminal we see a similar thing in our day. Our justice department has two sets of laws, one for the rich and another for the THE MESSENGER
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poor. Justice is distorted. Like in Habakkuk’s day so in ours everything seems to be coming loose; the bad guys always get away and I do something wrong once and I get caught. I pray to God for help. Is not my Good om nipotent? Yes, He is! Is not my God righteous? Yes. Does He not care? Yes, He does, — I can’t understand Him. — I cry for help. — I confess and tell Him everything. Why does He not answer? These four verses leave me with some more questions. Can I today come so boldly to God with my questions of doubt, fear and anxiety as Habakkuk did? We who hunger and thirst after righteousness may come to God just as boldly. We who have been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb may come boldly (Hebrews 4:16). Does God have to answer my questions of frustration? When the disciples asked Jesus, “Who has sinned that this man is born blind?” Jesus’ answer was, “Not his parents, nor he, but that God be glorified.” When Abraham, Moses and Habakkuk questioned God, God answered them quite simply, but when Job asked, God did not give him a clear cut answer. And therefore we, like Habakkuk in this section, may misunderstand God’s inaction — Zaire, Vietnam, Haiti. But, in spite of his inaction, as we see it, we must trust Him. II. MISUNDERSTANDING GOD’S ACTION
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We have prayed and there seems to have been no action from heaven. Instead things have gotten worse. This was also the case in Habakkuk’s situation. What does God do? According to the prophet God does the unbelievable. God tells Habakkuk to keep his eyes on the nations, not Judah, but the pagan nations. God had heard the prayer of Habakkuk. And now He was acting, not in Judah, but in Babylon. The idea that God was going to use the heathen nations should not have been new to the prophet for God said something similar to Isaiah. Assyria would be His servant. This did not mean that Assyria was right with God. It just meant God would use ungodly Assyria as one of his tools to punish Israel. And God informs the prophet that it is un believable. Here I can see myself in the prophet’s shoes. — I can’t believe God is working in Uganda, South Africa or Russia .. .
SEPTEMBER 12, 1980
— Right now I think He is working in Steinbach, and mainly in the Steinbach EMC. — To think that God is doing something in Africa or the Middle East or Russia, that is just unthinkable. — The prophet may have been hoping that the rich in Judah would be punished and then things would turn for the better. — But to think that things will get worse before they get better!! Impossible! — Habakkuk couldn’t believe it. And verse 12 could be interpreted as a question: “0 Lord, hast thou ordained them as a judgement?” (Gowan, Don E., p. 30). “Hast thou established them for chastisement?”
We have prayed and there seems to have been no action from heaven. Instead things have gotten worse . . . What does God do? Habakkuk seems to have had the teaching which was prevalent among the Jewish people — we are God’s chosen peo ple, we are the elect and therefore we will not be destroyed. But God also said in Deut. 8:19, 20, “If you forget the Lord . . . you shall surely perish. Like the nations that the Lord makes to perish before you ...” Indeed God warns, but if people do not listen they are destroyed. For example, in the time of Noah eight were saved. Sodom and Gomorrah — three were saved. Lot and two daughters. Yes, God’s actions. His ways, are surprising. Those who pride themselves in their greatness are defeated — Assyria, ' Babylon under Belshazzar, Persia, ' Greece, Rome, Germany . . . and Israel, priding themselves in that God had chosen them to be His people, were also surprised by God’s action. And we today who pride ourselves in coming from good Mennonite stock, beware lest we too be surprised at God’s actions. Habakkuk couldn’t believe that God would use the Babylonians. Why couldn’t he believe it? These Babylonians or Chaldeans were too wicked. How can God use the more wicked to punish the less wicked? Chaldeans (Babylonians) were a fierce people. They were at this time beginning to march across the then known world conquering people after people. They were greatly feared. And when they entered or captured a people they es tablished justice.
Their horsemen are seen as a beast, the leopard, speedily moving in and conquer ing. They swoop down on the enemy like an eagle from the sky. You are not aware of their nearness and then they strike and kill. They have come to plunder and everyone is terrified as they approach. They gather captives as easily as a per son gathers sand on the seashore. These Babylonians treat royalty with contempt. They laugh at high officials. And they make light of the fortresses that stand in their way. They capture, destroy, plunder and then, like the wind, move on. These Babylonians believe that power is their god! 'They think “might is right”! I think I can understand why the prophet could not see God using the Babylonians to punish Judah. How can God use someone who is completely op posed to Him, especially when it is someone who thinks that might is right? And when it is someone who hurts, tor tures and kills people created in God’s im age? If God were to tell you and me today that He is active, that He is arousing the people of the East to bring justice to Canada and the U.S.A., who would believe Him? This book of Habakkuk teaches us a number of things: It teaches us that even men of God may misunderstand God’s inaction or God’s action. This should caution us in inter preting the details in foretelling (prophecy). It teaches us that God is sovereign, he controls even the ungodly nations (as well as the Christians). They cannot operate outside of God’s boundary. It teaches us not to give glib answers to all the questions of life. It teaches us the finiteness of man, even spiritual man. And it teaches us the infiniteness of God. And so we may misunderstand God’s action or the lack of it. But as children of God we may trust even though we do not understand. This prophet misunderstood God. He did not understand God’s inaction nor his action. But in the end it mattered little. Habakkuk will rejoice because God is his motivation. God will give him the strength to stand even if all else fails. God will make him sure-footed along the treacherous road. God will let him walk safely. We may not understand but we may trust as did the prophet Habakkuk. We
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a Musically-^ Sneaking By Don Thiessen
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Music In The Home Music is available to us at the turn of a dial in all the styles that one could desire. Radio, television, recordings and live concerts are all available to us and we as parents need to be more than just bewildered as we decide about musical activities in our homes. Music, like sports and many other activities, can be passively and/or actively pursued. It is easiest to watch and listen because the only contribution you as a person need to make is time and possibly some money. The additional facets of mental and physical exertions which make the ac tivity active for the individual are possibly difficult but make music much more rewarding and satisfying than if there is only a passive participation. Your listening habits are largely determined by your con cept of how your mind is affected by what you hear. If you feel that “it really doesn’t make much difference,” and “what goes in one ear goes out the other,” you will likely be a somewhat indiscriminate listener with few compunctions about your family’s listening habits. You are possibly tell ing yourself that you are not listening to the words — you are simply hearing the music as a background to your driv ing, work or leisure activity. Studies have been done with subliminal advertising in which brand names were flashed on a screen at such a rapid rate that the subjects could not consciously see them, but in their succeeding choices it was found that they were unconsciously acting according to patterns they had unconsciously been subjected to. Similar ly, in music, the words which you are unconsciously absorb ing will affect your thinking and actions. When the apostle Paul tells the Philippians to “think on these things” he instructs them to consider whether it is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, of good repute, excellent and worthy of praise. Although in our application of this
principle we might not all arrive at identical conclusions it
will rule out indiscriminate, unthinking listening habits. If you always listen to the same radio station, there should be
a better reason than “I always listen to this station,” or “I like the music.” As parents we must evaluate our tastes and decide whether they measure up to Paul’s guideline and as a result of this evaluation determine what the minds in the family will dwell on. This will then affect which radio and television programs we will listen to and what recordings we will buy. And this brings us to a remark that is often heard, “I would like to buy some classical recordings but I don’t know what to buy.” If you are looking for classical recordings for children the following list is a suggested beginning (adults enjoy them too): 1) Peter and the Wolf by Serge Prokofiev 2) Carnival of the Animals by Camille Salnt-Saens 3) A Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra by Benjamin Britten 4) The Nutcracker Suite by Peter Tchaickovsky 5) Musical Adventures for Young People compiled by Reader’s Digest 6) A Soldier’s Tale by Igor Stravinsky As mentioned earlier it is better to be involved in music in an active way. It is this area that requires strong leadership by the parents because they are the ones who will be setting the priorities for their children. You are the one who makes the decision whether your boy will commit himself to a hockey league or a choir or church band in fall. The one will develop abilities that can be of spiritual benefit and blessing to others for a lifetime; the other is primarily a physical and social interaction. Most certainly this will mean that you are also committing yourself to driving your child and supporting him in every way that you can. These opportunities should be greatly valued and utilized because it is a definite waste to have a family spend large amounts of money and time on instruments and lessons and then for the person not to put it to use in a Christian worship set ting. All of these abilities, of course, provide possibilities for a very enjoyable time of music making in the home. To sing and play around the supper table after devotions can be very relaxing and unifying for the family. Whatever the musical activities are in your family, the path of least resistance is not the best one. Most things that are worthwhile require some effort — even if it’s only turn ing the dial.
MESSENGER OF GREAT VALUE
Letters FINDS MESSENGER INSPIRING
For several months now we’ve been receiving your publication, “The Messenger.” I’ve found it inspiring to read. Thank you for placing us on your mailing list. You’re helping us place good literature in our house for our family, friends, and visitors. From time to time we pray for you all and especially for friends like Rev. Gladwin Plett and family. God bless your efforts. Once again, thanks for “The Messenger.” Sincerely, Aaron Aboiyar Box 36, Gboko Benue State, Nigeria PAGE 4
Greetings from the Forest Lawn EMC. As one of the few churches of the E.M. Conference in Alberta, we find the denominational organ to be of great value in feeling more than one small congregation. However, we wonder if there is one small way in which the value and usefulness of the magazine may be improved. It has generally happened that our issues of the magazine arrive a month or so after the date on their covers. Is there any way of speeding the delivery of the magazine? If so, it would be much appreciated, and would help us keep abreast of the “happenings” in our Conference. As a journalism graduate, I believe the printed page to be a powerful means of spreading the gospel and Christian educational material. I share the concern you must have as editor, that the magazine. The Messenger, be the best it can be for the sake
of God’s Kingdom. I am willing to help the magazine in any way possible. Sincerely, Terry Smith Calgary, Alberta Pastoral Intern J 1
CONTRIBUTORS: Glen Koop (“Misunderstanding God”) is on the faculty of the Steinbach Bible College. The article is the first in a series of two. Diedrich and Dora Friesen (Treesbank) are involved in prison chaplaincy in Manitoba. John Peters (Steinbach), together with his wife, Doreen, is serving in Germany with the Janz Team. COVER PHOTO: Fall scene at one of Manitoba’s roadside parks (No. 12 Highway, 1979). By the editor. THE MESSENGER
From the Editor More on Sunday School
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Since space limited us to only a brief discussion of the Sunday school in our last issue we want to pursue the topic at least for this Messenger also. Every Sunday school should have a standard, one which they can share with new and old teachers at the beginning of the Sunday school year. By a standard we mean a set of values or guidelines which will be kept before the staff as attainable goals. Here is one from one Mennonite church: “The Sunday school is to teach the word of God, using the Bible as its textbook. All supplementary helps and materials are to be Christ-centered, Bible-based and pupil-related.” The following standard comes from the Mennonite Church (MC): “Through Christian education the church seeks to help all persons to become aware of who they are, of what their situation is, and of their alienation to the end that they may repent of their sin, respond to God’s redeem ing love in faith, and become members of the body of Christ; to grow in Christ within the community of believers, to walk in the Spirit in every relationship, to fulfill the call to discipleship in the world, and to abide in the Christian hope” (adopted by the Mennonite Commission for Christian Education in 1963). “The objective underlies the development of the Uniform Bible Lessons and Mennonite Elective Studies.” To possess a set of guidelines like this or something similar could be very helpful in keeping a person on course in teaching a Sunday school lesson. Last time we also said that Christian education is churchrelated. Let me elaborate a little. There should be in the Sunday school a strong emphasis on the place of the church in the Christian’s life — baptism, church membership and church involvement. The church should be seen as a fellowship where each one needs each of the others. Not of lesser importance is the matter of working in har mony with the teaching of the local church, as we also men tioned in our previous article. Failing to harmonize the teaching of the church and the Sunday school can only spell ultimate trouble. The problem is enhanced if the Sunday school uses a curriculum which may be at variance with our beliefs. I think if this is the case, Sunday school administrators should be very careful to give teachers a thorough orienta tion on how to teach when discrepancies arise between what the quarterly says and what the church teaches. For one thing, we need to emphasize that lessons are only helps, not necessarily to be taught word for word. Nor should we be under the impression that unless we get through with the lesson we have failed. First and foremost, we do not teach lessons, we teach persons! Persons with their needs, their tests and trials, etc. I believe any stan-
dard should bring this out. Someone has said it very appropriately as follows: “What matters most is not the amount of content absorbed by the student, but what happens to him personally. Successful teaching is measured by needs which are being met and lives which are being changed.” But how do we evaluate Sunday school curriculum? What do we look for? And what do we notice if it is left out? One of the ways we can evaluate it is by comparing it with our EMC constitution, both the statement of faith and the practical part. We could also try to get the publisher’s statement of faith. For those of you who subscribe to the Builder, this paper had a good list of things to look for as you evaluate curriculum. In brief they included the following: 1. The theological orientation 2. Use of the Bible 3. Broad aims and characteristics 4. Objectives 5. Appropriateness 6. Organization 7. Teacher helps 8. Format and appearance 9. Pricing and availability These are some of the things which would help you in evaluating lesson material. We also alluded to the matter of teacher training. One wonders how many churches offer training classes to their staff or potential staff. Every Sunday school should offer some form of training. 'There are many different possibilities: 1. Area conventions: Pay the way for your staff, or help pay the way. 2. Weekend local church seminars which you as a group of churches can arrange. 3. Local effort: You can have your own program where you meet once a week for ten weeks, or you can have a more concentrated effort in a block. When I was involved in our local CE program we con ducted training sessions on Sunday mornings during the Sunday school hour. This worked out very well. We got some local educators to come in and help with this. This would be worth exploring as well. 4. Got-at-your-own-pace programs: This is a training course where you can do part of this on your own with attending some outside lectures. A curriculum has been worked out for some of these and information is available. I might say, in conclusion, that here at the Board of Education office we have a limited number of teacher train ing helps available. These consist of filmstrips with cassettes and other items. Why don’t you write or call in to see what’s available? Wishing all Sunday school staff in the EMC a good year. D.S.
THE MESSENGER is the publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. Its purpose is to inform, Instruct, and inspire. Inform as to wha. is going on in the Conference: instruct in Godliness and victorious living; inspire to earnestly contend for the faith. All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor D. K. Schellenberg, Box 1268. Steinbach. Manitoba. ROA 2A0. Letters, articles, art and poetry are welcomed. Views expressed in Letters to the Editor are not necessarily those of the editor nor of the paper. Unpublished articles are not returned except by request. Subscription: Members pay through their church. Non-members pay $2.00 per year. Send subscription money to The Messenger. Box 1268, Steinbach. Manitoba ROA 2A0. THE MESSENGER is published every other week by The Evangelical Mennonite Conference. Board of Education and Publication, Box 1268. Stein bach. Manitoba, ROA 2A0. Second Class Mail, Registration Number 0591. Undeliverable copies, change of address and new subscriptions should be mail ed to the above address.
SEPTEMBER 12, 1980
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Missions CANADA
Mission Grams Man’s Spiritual Needs - In Prison “When a person is sentenced to prison and arrives at the gate he is stripped nak ed. This is symbolic of what actually happens to him as an individual. His selfrespect and authentic individuality is completely taken away, which is followed by self-hatred. This hate-turned-inward is the most difficult part to overcome in a person and certainly cannot be overcome by passing a new judgement.” This is where we as Christians need to look at ourselves and make a real inven tory of ourselves. Considering what Christ did for us, being made sin for us, taking upon Himself our punishment, and bringing about reconciliation through His atonement, we need to reach out and help the very unfortunate. The people behind bars are hurting; they are suffering inwardly; they are cry ing for help. They are society’s erring children. Dr. McMillan from Canadian Bi ble Society says, “If we as chaplains (Christians) do not fulfill this need, who then will?” The physical needs of the prisoner are well met. But the psychological, social and, above all else, the spiritual needs must be met. “Man does not live by bread alone.” Here the Bible Society is doing very well. I can hand out Bibles according to my discretion free of charge. I have given out a number of them already. McMillan says, “When we open the Bible we are in the presence of God.” The Conference pays $25.00 a month towards literature. This is used for books and literature offered to the inmates. The inmate has so much time to read; this time can be utilized by reading good books. I also hand out tracts, pamphlets and Spire comic books. This literature is accepted well. There have been a few very definite decisions for Christ lately which makes the work very rewarding. Some have made new commitments to Christ. There are those who have gone through crises and see these as ways of growing in the Lord. I am so thrilled to see so many tak ing a stand for Christ. Please pray for us that we will fulfill our task as servants of those who are in need, whether in the institutions or on the outside. Opportunities present themselves all around us, if we are only available. Diedrich and Dora Friesen PAGE 6
Canada A team of mission personnel is travelling to the Alberta and B.C. EMC churches for missions conferences. The team includes Levi Reimer, Linda Penner, Diedrich Friesens, and Milton Fasts. High Level, Alta. - The church group has purchased some town lots for the purpose of constructing a church building. Kamsack, Sask. - Paul and Lois Thiessen are filling in for the Frank Brauns while they are taking a three-month course in Quesnel, B.C. with Inter-Mission Cooperative Outreach (IMCO). Paul and Lois plan to continue with the native ministries for at least a year.
Personnel — Sara Loeppky was reappointed for service in Paraguay. — Mary Loewen has changed her status from that of short-term missionary to career missionary. She plans to teach at Camp 67 in Mexico. — Irene Kroeker was given a year’s extension to her furlough; she plans to study. — Jake Wiebes were reassigned for further service in Chihuahua City in Mexico on a half-time basis. Bro. Wiebe is taking a dental course. — Gladwin Pletts were installed as pastor of the Seesen church in Germany on August 31. Dietrich Lepp was elected president of the Yalve Sanga Indian Bible school Dora Friesen has returned for another term of service in Mexico. — The Nicaragua field would welcome two fellows to come and help in camp con struction and building bookstore bookshelves. Two girls would be welcome after Christmas to become exposed to the clinic program and help in the missionaries’ homes. This would give some good exposure to missions.
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Mali, Africa Evelyn Barkman informs us: “The building program at the Warsala school is continuing. Larry McNeill has begun work on the second dormitory. “I am presently involved in preparing materials for the girls’ school, a challenging but enjoyable task. “We were not able to have a school for boys during the summer and fall, as planned, but we are happy for a group of local boys, ages 9 to 14, who are coming for afternoon classes every weekday.” Germany Mary Brandt shares of her work with Youth for Christ in Germany: “If the weather permits, I take a shortcut to work through a narrow path over a grain field. It’s only seldom that I meet anybody here. This way I get to work in less than fifteen minutes and leave the house at the same time Barbara leaves for school at 7:30. During these few minutes I’ve made a point of praying for relatives. Coming to the headquarters, I check the charts to see how many people we’ll have for dinner. Usually we’re anywhere from 10-20, sometimes more, but seldom less. Last Friday we had the group “Sweeter Than Honey” over, as well as three young people from Hungary and a fellow from Brazil. We have different groups helping us from time to time. It’s great meeting so many different young Christians. Even though we don’t have any guest rooms, we still often have groups staying for the night. They sleep in the offices and all over. Our missionminded young guests seem to have one thing in common - they’re satisfied with bare necessities and are grateful for any little extras. “Twice a week all the workers at the centre pause for a short devotional and then join in praying for the various needs of the different branches of our work. Once a month all YFC workers from all over Germany meet for a day of prayer and fellowship. (It is a family of 50 for dinner). We then hear reports of young people who are reached with the gospel either by coming into a Tee-mobile, a coffee bar, by attending a crusade, by hearing a concert by our choir or by hear ing God’s word in jail, in school, in a hospital or at camp. The film ministry is also an important part of the whole. I could go on to mention even more avenues of our work, like our short-term Bible school - but all these efforts would be in vain if the Lord wouldn’t bless. We are only vessels, dependent on Him.” THE MESSENGER
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Around the World Hurricane Leaves Destruction X.....................................
Gladwin and Jean Plett. GERMANY
Gladwin Platts Installed The installation of Rev. and Mrs. Gladwin Plett took place at Seesen, West Germany on Sunday, August 31. The lit tle chapel was filled with members and guests. Lothar Hiller chaired the meeting. After welcoming the Pletts both Gladwin and Jean shared in German for several minutes, expressing their joy and gratitude for the warm welcome extended to them by the church. John Peters asked for open prayers by members and spoke the dedication prayer, followed by a message on the prayer from Colossians 1:9-12. A time of fellowship and getting acquainted followed, where all interested stayed on for a delicious meal. Two Bible school graduates, Lydia Wenger and Ute Seeger will be supporting themselves in the ministry in Seesen by working at half-day jobs and giving themselves to youth, visitation and club work. A very open and free time of planning and shar ing by the people involved in the various ministries had been held on Saturday. Your prayers for God’s leading and blessing in the church work at Seesen are deeply appreciated. John Peters
Misunderstanding God (cont’d from p. 3) may trust the one who created us in his image; the one who redeemed us from sin and the power of Satan; the one who holds everything in His control. Habakkuk says, "... but those who are righteous will live because they are faithful to God” (2:4). “Even though the fig trees have no fruit and no grapes grow on the vines, even though the olive crop fails, and the fields produce no grain, even though the sheep all die, and the cat tle stalls are empty, I will still be joyful and glad, because the Lord God is my saviour. The Sovereign Lord gives me strength. He makes me sure-footed as a deer and keeps safe on the mountains” (3:17). (to be concluded)
SEPTEMBER 12, 1980
THE “STRONGEST hurricane of the century,” Hurricane Allen left its mark of destruction as it ravaged crops, properties and killed people in Haiti, Jamaica and St. Lucia of the Caribbean Islands, August 2 to 9. Although the devastation was much less than expected, and much less extensive than that caused by David in 1979, in areas hit it has caused genuine loss and grief. Mennonite Central Committee personnel near such areas are organizing to respond to suffering. Of the three islands named, St. Lucia suf fered the most property damage and in Haiti 41 were killed. From Haiti, MCCer Walter Sawatsky of La Junta, Col., reported that damage in Port-au-Prince was slight. He and his wife Joy reported from Les Cayes, on the southwestern peninsula, that extensive damage was done to the trees and coffee crops. Between five and 10 percent of the homes in that area are damaged. MCC is preparing to assist churches related to the Worldteam Mission (formerly West Indies Mission) in Haiti. MCC would, through them, help set up home repair pro jects and food distribution.
CMBC Announces Opening Exercises The Canadian Mennonite Bible College will officially and publicly open the 1980-81 academic year at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 21. All interested members of the public are invited to attend the exercises which are to take place at the TuxedoShaftesbury High School located at Grant Avenue at Shaftesbury Boulevard in Win nipeg. The College opening speaker will be Dick Rempel, pastor of the West Abbotsford Mennonite Church and Chairperson of the Conference of Mennonites in British Colum bia. Also featured will be an all-College choir directed by George Wiebe. Other events that fall on the same weekend include the following: - September 21, 4:00 p.m. Dedication of a 24-suite apartment building which is being built on the College campus. - September 20. Alumni Homecoming, in cluding a slow-pitch game, supper and even ing program. Activities begin at 2:00 p.m. - September 19, 8:00 p.m. in the College Chapel. Faculty recital featuring Peter Letkemann, Henriette (Cornies) Schellenberg and Esther Wiebe.
CMBC also invites the public to make plans to attend this year’s J.J. Thiessen Lec tures to be held on October 21 and 22. They will be given by Dr. Gerald Janzen, Professor of Old Testament at Christian Theological Seminary, Indianapolis, Indiana. The four lecture series are entitled “The Terror of History and the Fear of the Lord.” All presentations are open to all those in terested and will be held at 9:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. on both days.
David Augsburger to speak at Eden Mental Health Centre Eden Mental Health Centre at Winkler this week announced that David Augsburger will be the guest speaker at their annual meeting slated for September 27, 1980. Augsburger is Associate Professor of Pastoral Care and Counselling at the Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminaries, Elkhart, Indiana. An ordained minister of the Mennonite Church, he is a graduate of Eastern Mennonite College, Eastern Men nonite Seminary, and the School of Theology at Claremont, California from which he received a Ph.D. in Personality, Religion and Psychotherapy. He is the author of twelve books, the most recent of which are Anger, Assertiveness and Pastoral Care, The Love Fight: Caring Enough to Confront, Cherishable-Love and Marriage, and Communicating Good News. For eight years David served as a radio spokesman for the Mennonite Churches. His productions won four awards for creative religious broadcasting. His feature articles have been published in over 100 different periodicals. Although active in teaching, consulting, doing individual, marital and group therapy, David spends more time in marital, familial and communal relationships. Any leftover time is devoted to art, music and writing. In addition to speaking at the evening meeting in the Winkler Bergthaler Church, David will be conducting two workshops. The Saturday morning workshop planned for staff persons of health care facilities, will focus on “Dealing With Staff Anger” and “Caring That Confronts.” The afternoon workshop, planned for pastors and other helping professions, will centre around “Assertiveness” and “Marital Therapy.” Both morning and afternoon workshops will be conducted at Eden Mental Health Centre in Winkler.
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Messenger News
David and Audrey Wiebe.
CRADLE ROLL STARTED
New members at the Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship. Back row: Anita Thiessen, Ed Peters, Danny Janzen, John Wiebe, John Koop (Pastor). Front row: Sandra Wiebe, Sylvia Koop, Sally Guenther, Jessie Wiebe. On June 15 eight new members were add ed to the local church. Anita Thiessen, Ed Vanderhoof, B.C.: For those of you in Peters, Danny Janzen, Sandra Wiebe, Sylvia terested in what has been happening in the Koop and Sally Guenther were baptized and Vanderhoof E.M. Church during spring and John and Jessie Wiebe transferred their summer of 1980, sit back, and I shall men membership. tion a few highlights. Pastor John Koop and family have had a In spring, from May 11 to June 6, very busy summer due to the fact that they Vanderhoof had the privilege of having a built themselves a new house. They were revival crusade held by evangelists from the renting a house several miles out of town, Canadian Revival Fellowship. The Sutera which was very inconvenient for them. Their Twins were the main speakers. The meetings new home is situated close to the church. were held in the Gospel Chapel of, Now their legs will often be able to take them Vanderhoof and the church was packed where gas and wheels always had to do the nearly every night. The Vanderhoof Chris job before. Living close to the church will no tian Fellowship (EMC) Church was fully in doubt enhance their ministry. volved in all the crusade activities. Many Last, but not least, the refugee family we people went to the prayer rooms and lives are sponsoring arrived in June. Father, were changed. Our prayer is that we will not Mother and five children are here, and four revert back to our old attitudes and ways of children are still in a refugee camp in In living. donesia. One of the children in Indonesia has On May 18 a commissioning service was TB and cannot come yet because of it. held in our church for David and Audrey Hopefully the whole family will soon be Wiebe and Tina Hamm. Dave and Audrey together again. Wiebe went to Germany for six weeks as i summer missionaries with the EMC Board of Missions. They were involved in literature ’*'■ 's.,. distribution, street meetings, and special ser vices. They have now taken the responsibili ty of pastoring the church at Endeavour, Sask. Tina Hamm also went to Europe for mis sionary work. She went with the Mission To Europe’s Millions as a member of the Yugoslav Outreach team, and was involved with open air meetings, special services, and » literature distribution as well. She went for ft two months. May the Lord raise up many more young people like them to go and serve Him at Tina Hamm home and abroad. REVIVAL CRUSADE HELD
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Fisher Branch, Man.: Greetings with Galatians 6:2, “Bear ye one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ.” What? You mean carry burdens and go the second mile during summer holidays? For us at Fisher Branch this included knocking on doors (yes, even at strangers’ doors) and starting a Cradle Roll! How en couraged we were by each one of the parents who have shown an interest in the Bible and have signed up for this. A number of us were busy helping with the DVBS work at Fisher Branch, Poplar field and Hodgson. We thank God for willing workers and for good attendance at all three schools. Some of us were privileged to attend Family Camp at Beaver Creek (August 2931). Jacob Wiebe from Blumenort was the speaker for this retreat. He spoke on “How to Know God’s Will For Your Life.” Stan Plett of Steinbach was the music director. On August 12 we had a special ladies’ meeting where Arlene Klassen challenged us and explained how Stonecroft home Bible studies function. Kathy Archibald of Arborg shared here testimony that evening as well. Helen Kornelsen spoke at our Sunday school opening on July 20. She shared about the mission work in Belize and showed slides. A tiny little girl has been welcomed into the Danny Reimer home as a foster child. We all miss Darrell Thiessen of Winnipeg who was living with the P.K. Friesen family this summer. Darrell was a real asset in the young people’s group and also helped along at Beaver Creek Bible Camp. During this summer I believe all of us pull ed aside to rest awhile and how refreshing this can be! However, rest is not the only way of resolving life’s tensions. The two scriptural bears, bear and forbear, found in Ephesians 4:2 and Galatians 6:20 can also be of great help! THE MESSENGER
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Baptism and acceptance of members at the La Crete, Alta. E.M. Church. Left to right: Menno Hamm (deacon), Henry Krahn, Jake Fehr, Joyce Janzen, David Fehr, Mrs. Tina Fehr, Danny Fehr, Marie Ann Dyck, Mrs. Anne Elias, Dave Elias (membership transfer), Elmer Hamm (pastor). YOUTH ENCOUNTER SINGERS La Crete, Alta.: We would like to let you in on a number of highlights of what has been happening in our fellowship these past months. In March we had a group of young girls, “The Choristers,” from the Peace River Bible Institute. They shared testimonies and their singing was a blessing to hear. March 27-30 saw our fellowship hosting the Regional Conference. Much time was spent in prayer and planning for this event. Everyone was very willing to help in whatever way they were able. Many old ac quaintances were renewed and new friends made as well. In May the “Youth Encounter Singers” from Winnipeg Bible College had services in our church. They also went to the various schools in the district presenting the drama “It’s Cool in the Furnace.” They were well received. Rev. Bill Kilpatrick brought the
message each evening. Many people were blessed through their ministry and several people gave their lives to the Lord. The meetings closed on Sunday with a potluck dinner. One of the men made a dare to one of the ladies to ask the men to clean up. She did! The men did an excellent job! On June 8 we had a baptismal service. Eight people were baptized with one person transferring membership. It was a joy to hear them testify to the Lord’s guidance in each of their lives. DVBS was held from August 18-22. Highest attendance was 79 children. The closing program was held on Sunday even ing. Each class presented some aspect of what they learned during the week. The director, Mr. Peter Janzen, together with the teachers and helpers, did an excellent job.
AN OPEN LETTER FROM THE SUMMER 1980 MacGregor, Man.: Dear Friends, I would consider it a real pleasure to be your compa nion on a stroll down my life’s memory lane. My time here is almost ended now, yet it seems like only yesterday when, fresh and new, I swept in, miraculously awakening all of nature to its full-blown potential. How I hope that the beauty of my season has uniquely inspired many to meditate on the goodness and praiseworthiness of so great a God! My coming was especially welcome in the MacGregor area this year since I brought the rains that were so badly needed and which Sister Spring had somehow slipped up
SEPTEMBER 12, 1980
on. (Granted, lately I have become somewhat carried away in this regard, but at least growth has been possible.) Along with the many changes that oc curred when I arrived, came chances. Chances, for instance, to celebrate special occasions in lovely weather. Weddings, of course, spring to mind, as they must have to the minds (and hearts) of three young men, members here, who were married recently (particulars elsewhere in this paper), and while these weddings did not take place at MacGregor, many relatives and friends motored to witness the happy proceedings at Landmark, Blumenort and Austin.
The Menno Hamms from La Crete celebrated a special day, their 25th wedding anniversary, during a visit to their home area, on the afternoon of July 13 at the church. The program consisted of items by family and relatives, a Come and-Go Tea, and the viewing of some family slides. Truly an enjoyable occasion! The Martin Hoeppners commemorated their 40th year together in the same manner. However, this event was enjoyed outdoors at the scenic farm home of one of their daughters, the Ed Giesbrechts, the former home of the parents as well. Chances also came to take holidays. Pastor and Mrs. Kroeker spent theirs in Alberta where they have some family members. While there they also really en joyed visiting the Calgary E.M. Church which is thriving and enthusiastic. All occasions, however, even in my lovely season, were not joyous. Farewells are among those less-than-happy events, a fact that was brought home to this congregation forcibly with the one on June 25 for Martin and Eleanor Harder and their young family, prior to their move to Winkler. The evening was characterized by many sincere tributes which showed the deep feelings of regret shared by all age groups in “losing” so capable and dedicated a couple. Certainly, though, the Lord will continue to use them wherever they are. My season also brought challenges such as attending summer Bible camps, or possibly the greater challenge of counselling, cooking, or helping in other areas of the camping program. The response to this was very good here with a number of young peo ple, young marrieds and even grandparents, accepting responsibilities at Carberry, Beaver Lake Camp, Beaver Creek and at Bethany Missouri Mission Outreach. Many children and young teens from this area also had worthwhile experiences as campers. Another challenge that I brought was that of Daily Vacation Bible School. Held at the church from July 7-11, it was a good week of enthusiastic participation in singing, playing and the study and memorization of God’s Word, with about 40 children in attendance. A challenge too which became a real highlight for the choir (and the community) was learning new music in order to take part in a mass choir, under the auspices of the United Prayer Fellowship on August 17 at the EMMC Church in Austin. This large new building was filled to capacity, with the many participating choirs and with the sounds of praise, truly an inspiring evening of song. Well, now I must say “goodbye”. By the time you read this letter, perhaps I will be over. May I remain in your memory as a time well spent since I will never come again. With best wishes for a good fall season, I remain, Yours truly. The Summer of 1980 PAGE 9
SOD TURNING
Steinbach EEC: Sod turning for the Evangelical Fellowship Church at the corner of Giesbrecht St. and Friesen Ave. in Stein bach took place on Saturday, September 6 at 2:00 p.m. The ceremony was well attended by the people of Steinbach and surrounding areas. The weather was excellent for this oc casion. The ceremony consisted of remarks by Rev. Milton Fast, board chairman; historical perspective by Rev. Henry Klassen; devotional by Rev. Glen Koop; building con struction report by Ken Toews, chairman of building committee; and prayer by Pastor John Dyck and Rev. Henry P. Dyck. The building contract has been awarded to C.T. Loewen and Co. Construction is to begin in September and services are to begin in the spring of 1981. This will be the only church west of Highway No. 12 in Steinbach. All services of the EFC will continue at the SBC music chapel until the construction of the new sanctuary is completed. The EFC is a member church in the Evangelical Mennonite Conference which in cludes 46 churches in Canada. The ordination service for John and Erna Dyck took place on September 7 at the Steinbach Bible College Chapel. It was well attended by friends and relatives. The service included singing by the Freedom Quartet of which John was a member until May of this year. Rev. Henry P. Dyck of the Steinbach EMC gave the main address, based on I and II Timothy: 1) to John and Erna - study the Word, live the Word, preach the Word; 2) to the congregation - pray, obey, pay (more
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John and Erna Dyck and their sons, Jonathan Paul and Timothy Mark . than money). The congregation shared in dividually during which time they pledged their full support. The ordination ceremony, which included laying on of hands and prayers, was directed by Rev. Edwin Plett of the Prairie Rose EMC, moderator of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. The ceremony was followed by fellowship and refreshments. Everyone was very enthusiastic as a result of the Lord’s blessings upon the congrega tion, especially in the last few days.
NEW SCHOOL SYSTEM INTRODUCED
Morweena, Man.: Due to growing concern in recent years among parents about the public school curriculum and its philosophy we began to investigate other options in education for our Christian Day School. Over a period of several years various avenues were explored for a possible solution to the quest for a more Bible-centered program. This school term will mark the first year that the curriculum will be totally Christian-oriented. The school board has in stalled the Christian Light Publications educational system. It resembles the of fice/workbook style of ACE but it is a Men nonite publication. It will be a new ex perience for students and teachers alike as it deviates quite sharply from the conventional classroom system and will take some ad justing. Teachers for this year are Mr. Pete Peters of Winnipeg, Tim Reimer of Arborg (has ACE experience) and Gladys Plett of Arborg. A fellowship evening was held in May Sod turning ceremony for the Evangelical Fellowship Church in Stein- when much of the Northern Light Mission bach. Left to right: Ken Toews, Pastor personnel was evacuated to Gimli from Red John Dyck, Rev. Milton Fast. Lake as forest fires threatened that com-
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munity. Rides for the evacuees were provid ed to Morweena and we all enjoyed the infor mal evening of sharing in song, testimony, reports and a lunch later. Our church was also the scene of two weddings this summer. John and Carol Petkau exchanged their vows on May 17 and are planning a winter of Voluntary Service in Mexico. Delmer and Janice Plett were united in marriage on August 23. They are con templating Bible school later this year. God bless you. Phonexay and Vandy Ly, the refugee family we have grown to love, were proud to announce the birth of a bouncing baby boy on July 27. Heng Toung is their third child. Phonexay was a merchant and, together with his wife Vandy, ran a shop in Laos before coming to Canada in 1979. He has since learned the inroads of the housemoving trade. He is employed by one of our members and has proven to be a hard and willing worker.
Births REMPEL — to Ed and Agatha Rempel of Kola, Man., a daughter, Nettie Colleen, on May 19, 1980. PLETT — to Wally and Anne Plett of Kola, Man., a son, Bradley Donald, on April 23,1980. SINCLAIR — to Roland and Judith Sinclair, a son, Joel Timothy, on July 1, 1980. QUIRING — to Lionel and Janet Quiring of MacGregor, Man., a son, Alexander Matthew, on July 19, 1980. SCHLAMP — to Bernard and Pauline Schlamp, a son, Douglas Kurt, on November 12, 1979. PLETT — to Rod and Debbie Plett, a son, Matthew Franklin, on September 25, 1979. FEHR — to Andy and Dianne Fehr, a daughter, Venessa Leann, on March 26, 1980. BOWCOTT — to Wayne and Karen Bowcott of Pansy, Man., a son, Jordon Aaron, on May 14, 1980. LY — to Phonexay and Vandy Ly of Arborg, Man., a son, Heng Toung, on July 27, 1980. DUONG — to Sai and Lingh Duong of Prairie Grove, Man., a son, Chan Trung, on June 29, 1980. EFTHYMIADIS — to Theo and Bev Efthymiadis of Rosenort, Man., a son, Miltiadis Stephan Anastasios, on August 15, 1980. REMPEL — to Allen and Diane Rempel of Rosenort, Man., a son, Phillip Ivan, on August 6, 1980. FRIESEN — to Jerry and Nancy Friesen of Rosenort, Man., a daughter, Debbie Bonita Nancy, on July 23, 1980. WARKENTIN — to Wil and Lynn Warkentin of Rosenort, Man., a son, Jonathan Luc, on June 7, 1980.
THE MESSENGER
as to enjoy crafts and recreation. Our teachers came from the Hepburn area. They were Barb, Deb and Cheryl Amendt and Vai Reddekopp. The closing program Friday evening was well attended with the church being filled to capacity. The message was brought by Pastor Funk. As in the past, VBS has been a means of outreach in the com munity. Pastor Funk’s message on August 31 was entitled “The Saviour’s Credentials.” He brought out that there were four basic credentials; His Divinity, His Baptism, His Anointing by the Holy Spirit, and His True Humanity. Man cannot redeem man, but we need to come to Christ who sacrificed His life on the cross.
NEW HORIZONS
Fort Garry Church Needs You If you are planning to move to Win nipeg to work or study this fall, con sider helping the Fort Garry E.M. Church, 602 Pasadena, Winnipeg, in one of the following areas: — Club leaders (for children ages 8-12, on a bi-weekly basis) — Sunday school teachers — Music
If you can help, contact Al Friesen (Pastor), phone 453-4586; or Irma Na deau (Club Coordinator), phone 2618930.
Ernest and Elsie Funk and daughters, Cladys, Grace and Gloria.
Rosenort Fellowship, (Man.): The summer months at Rosenort Fellowship Chapel have been filled with spiritual blessings. NEW PASTOR INSTALLED July 13 was a busy Sunday. During the Arabella, Sask.: The Psalmist David wrote, morning service six young people were bap "Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised tized upon their confession of faith in Jesus in the city of our God, in the mountain of his and accepted into membership. In the after holiness.” Greetings are once again extended noon, following a challenge by Rev. C.B. to our readers. It has been a busy summer Loewen and the celebration of the Lord’s with members involved in “Celebrate Supper, the Brotherhood elected Stan Plett Saskatchewan” activities both near home to the ministry. Later, on September 7, Stan and elsewhere and also family reunions was installed as our pastor. We at the Chapel which for some people meant being away will stand with Stan and Alma in prayer and in encouragement as they take on these new from this area. On August 8 we gathered at the church' responsibilities. On August 3 several parents dedicated for a farewell supper and program for our pastor and his wife, Frank and Olga Reimer. their children to the Lord. We were reminded Their ministry has been greatly appreciated that children are given as gifts from the during the years they have served here. We Lord, and with them comes the responsibility wish them God’s richest blessings in their to train them to love the Lord. During the past few months we have again present location. On August 10 we attended the installation seen how the Lord says “Follow Me.” This service in the Pelly church for our new often means pulling up stakes and moving on pastor, Ernest and Elsie Funk. We are into new experiences. On August 6 the grateful and praise the Lord for sending the chapel bid a formal farewell to Pastor Fred Funks to us. We anticipate many spiritual and Doris Friesen and their family. They were presented with a personalized quilt blessings as they minister to us. August 11-15 was the week of Vacation from the Ladies Fellowship, and with a ‘love Bible School. Twenty-nine children came gift’ from the chapel in appreciation for their daily to be instructed in God’s Word as well five years of faithfulness in ministering to us
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in our joys and in our sorrows. Pastor Fred is enrolled at Canadian Theological College in Regina in a Missions program. Early in September the Fellowship also wished Jerry and Helen Siemens and their girls the Lord’s blessing as they moved to Swan River. But as members moved, others were added. Irwin and Marilyn Dueck, Art and Gladys Friesen and Elmer and Chris Dueck were received into membership dur ing the summer. We praise the Lord when young people go out for further training in God’s Word. Ian and Darryl Wallace are attending seminary in Elkhart, Indiana, enrolled in a Missions program; Cam Cornelsen has left for Okanagan Bible Institute; Lloyd Kornelsen is attending Winnipeg Bible College; Delbert Fast is in his second year at Peace River Bi ble Institute in Sexsmith, Alberta; Dan Reimer is attending Columbia Bible College in Columbia, South Carolina. Lyle Koop is planning to leave for Capernwray in Sweden later in September. As a family of believers it is our responsibility to pray that the Lord will lead these young people as they prepare their lives for His Service.
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Six young people were baptized at the Rosenort Fellowship Chapel on July 13. Front row (left to right): Patricia Friesen, Barb Thiessen, Rhonda Dueck, Pam Thiessen. Back row: Lynette Cornelsen, Allan Friesen, Fred Friesen (Pastor).
SEPTEMBER 12, 1980
Baptismal service at the Rosenort Fellowship Chapel recently. Left to right: Fred Friesen (Pastor), Bob Friesen, Kelly Brandt, Russel Plett, Valerie Plett, Jeanette Kornelsen. PAGE 11
Weddings SAWATZKY - WIELER: Daniel Gorden, son of Mr. and Mrs. Glen Sawatzky of MacGregor, Man., and Sandra Grace, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Wieler of Austin, Man. were married on June 21, 1980. The wedding took place at the E.M. M.C. Church in Austin with Rev. C. Harder of Austin, Man. officiating. The couple is making their home in MacGregor, Man. SAWATZKY — LOEWEN: Alvin Wayne, son of Mr. and Mrs. Glen Sawatzky of MacGregor, Man., and Bonita Lynn, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dave Loewen of Blumenort, Man., were married on July 26,1980 at the Blumenort E.M. Church with Rev. Gerry Doerksen of Blumenort officiating. The couple is making their home in Kleefeld, Man.
GIESBRECHT — UNGER: Ivan, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jake Giesbrecht of MacGregor, Man., was married on August 9, 1980 to Cheryl, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Unger of Landmark, Man. The wedding took place at the E.M. Church in Landmark, Man., with Rev. Edwin Plett of Landmark, Man. officiating. The young couple is making their home in MacGregor, Man. PLETT — REIMER: Delmer, son of Mr. and Mrs. Joas Plett of Arborg, Man., and Janice, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Abe Reimer of Ar borg, Man., were married on August 23,1980. The wedding took place at the Morweena E.M. Church with Rev. Glenn Plett of Arborg, Man. officiating. The couple is residing in Ar borg.
PETKAU - PLETT: John Petkau, son of Mrs. Betty Friesen of Winnipeg, Man. was married to Carol, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Pete Plett of Arborg, Man. The wedding took place on May 17, 1980 at the Morweena E.M. Church with Rev. Glenn Plett of Arborg, Man. of ficiating. The couple is making their home in Fisher Branch, Man. THIESSEN - DUECK: Elmer, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Thiessen of Winnipeg, Man., and Jeanette, daughter of Rev. and Mrs. Cornie Dueck of Aylmer, Ont., were married on July 26, 1980 at the Rosenort Fellowship Chapel with Rev. Harvey Plett of Steinbach, Man. of ficiating. The couple is residing in Steinbach, Man.
ENNS — KROEKER: John, son of Mrs. Maria Enns of Leamington, Ont., and Elda, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jake Kroeker of Riverton, Man., were married on August 31,1980 at the Mennville E.M. Church in Riverton, Man. with Rev. Jake Kroeker, father of the bride, officiating. The young couple is making their home in Winnipeg, Man.
FRIESEN — BRANDT: Roland, son of Mr. and Mrs. Milton Friesen of Arborg, Man., was married to Laureen, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Abe Brandt of Riverton, Man., on September 6,1980. The wedding took place at the Menn ville E.M. Church in Riverton, Man. with Rev. Harry Friesen of Riverton officiating. The cou ple is residing in Arborg, Man.
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THE MESSENGER
Calling All Youth Workers, Pastors, Planning Committees to a Youth Leaders Seminar Place: Winnipeg Bible College Date: Saturday, September 27 Time: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Topics include: Discerning Needs of Your Youth Group Setting Goais to Reach Those Needs How Can Our Group Study the Bible? Music and Youth Ministry
Registration: $10.00 Call Winnipeg Bible College, Phone 433-7230, by September 15 for early registration.
EMC Youth Committee
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!