The Messenger February 15, 1980

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ENNONITE ONITE C CO1MFERENCE FERENCE

VOL. 18 NO. 4

FEB. 15/80 I

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Wholistic Gospel For The Eighties

The gospel is essentially good news, good news of salvation now, of the kingdom now, of God's presence now by His Spirit. But man tends to dichotomize, separating between the sacred and the secular. The wholistic gospel calls us to overcome that dichotomy while at the same time main­ taining the awareness of pluralism, of two kingdoms in the world.

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A Wholistic Gospel For The Eighties by Myron S. Ausburger

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HE uniqueness of the 8O’s will be the seriousness with which we focus on human need. There is nothing magical about the 8O’s but there is something that is extremely moral. In the technological advance

the issue is still one of morality, how we use this technology. In the popula­ tion increase the issue is not so much whether we can feel the world, but whether we have the moral stamina to alter our lifestyle and share systematically to meet world need. The issue in the energy crisis is not so much whether we can find sufficient energies to maintain and accelerate our way of living, but rather whether we are willing to adjust our affluent lifestyles to concentrate more on per­ sons and their values than on luxury. In organized Christianity the issue is not so much whether the in­ stitutional church will continue to ex­ ist, but rather whether we can change our focus on institutional bigness to focusing on the gatherings of peoples, large or small groups, for their refurbishing to move into socie­ ty as agents of God’s presence. This is to say that the issues confronting us

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in the 8O’s are extremely moral and essentially ethical. The evangelical gospel when properly understood is always social. This is true both because God’s redemptive grace is primarily a reconciliation between God and man, and also because one who is so recon­ ciled now carries the same mission toward his fellowman as is the recon­ ciling mission of Christ. The gospel is essentially good news, good news of salvation now, of the Kingdom now, of God’s presence now by His Spirit. But man tends to dichotomize, separating between the sacred and the secular. The wholistic gospel calls us to overcome that dichotomy while at the same time maintaining the awareness of pluralism, of two kingdoms in the world. This is the paradox of God’s Kingdom invading a culture while any given culture at the same time tends toward idolatry. From among various con­ siderations it is important for this es­ say to lift out the following five con­ siderations as characteristics of a wholistic gospel. They presuppose a high Christology, apart from which

we have no gospel. They also presup­ pose that the nature of authentic commitment to Jesus Christ issues in an integrity which is the essential element in genuine integration. Apart from this integrity we would have syncretism rather than wholeness.

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IRST, the integration of the re­ demptive and the ethical. There is a tendency for us to swing from one to the other. But a high Christology should hold the two together, relating ethics to Christ in the same way we relate salvation to Christ. With our particular concerns in the 8O’s on ethics and social justice we will need care in relating the redemptive acts of God to the moral acts and concerns of God. We should be reminded that God redeemed and created a people for His name before He gave them an ethic.

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ECOND, the integration of the spiritual and the secular. By spiritual is not meant mystical, but rather that which is authentical­ ly related to the rule of Christ. By THE MESSENGER

secular is meant the sphere of man’s achievement by virtue of the very r?; s strengths of his humanness. The in­ terrelation of the two will prevent the secular from claiming the wholeness for itself, will permeate the secular with the influence of the spiritual, will correct the perversions of the secular and in so doing achieve a more authentic humanness or secularity. We are the salt of the earth, and salt applied to food makes it taste “foodier”, by which is meant that salt enables the world to be more genuinely world, and by so doing in­ creases the possibility that the world may recognize the supreme values of the Kingdom of Christ.

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HIRD, the integration of the personal and the social. By per­ sonal is not meant private, but rather as Bonhoeffer says, the reality of becoming “truly an individual when one answers in the face of Christ alone in spite of the crowd.” This can maintain the concept of a believer’s church, that each person is individually responsible to make the commitment to Christ that identifies him as a believer. But such believing is not done in isolation, but rather in the context of others and is expressed in relationship to others. Consequent­ ly one who knows Christ immediately shares the concern of Christ for all men, excluding none, and thereby ex­ periences the social implications of reconciliation. Being reconciled to God carries with it reconciliation to God’s mission in the world which is one of Shalom, of peace, of wholistic well-being for all men.

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OURTH, the integration of mis­ sion and identification. Our mission is to be agents of recon­ ciliation. This mission determines the method or the model. One cannot be an agent of reconciliation by proxy, nor by a lack of proximity, nor by patronizing, nor by a position of power when it is used to maintain a distance of status. Models of church life which do not overcome the distance between us and others in socie­ ty militate against our mission. Models of identification with people become an authentic channel of mission. It is by integrating mission and identification that we can become

FEBRUARY 15, 1980

Being reconciled to God carries with it reconciliation to God's mission in the world . . .

agents of reconciliation. And this can be done when we respect the paradox of a separation to the rule of Christ which at the same time permits our identification with others in the Spirit of Christ,

IFTH, the integration of community and openness. While spiritually community has the strength of being the interpreting,

encouraging, worshipping fellowship, viewed socially the very strength of community also becomes its liability. Communities tend to become ingrown, exclusive, and even distrust­ ful of others. Even within the church sub-communities within the large community develop hermeneutical approaches which often tend to alienate one group from another. Between the church and the world the community of God’s people often develop an exclusiveness and many times a provincialism which makes it difficult both to communicate with others and to be open to others. The next decade will no doubt throw us into more close relationships with other peoples, and we will need to dis­ cover how the community can ex­ perience new openness, sharing the love of Christ within differences while maintaining the integrity of our own faith and stance in relation to our Lord. The question is not whether there is a wholistic gospel, but whether we will permit the living Christ to broaden us to the larger understan­ dings of His mission. The question is not whether an evangelical versus a social emphasis, but rather whether we are willing to cease being possessive over a particular stance, and become agents of God’s presence in a wholistic way. Paul wrote to the Colossians of the cosmic significance of Jesus Christ, a truth which we have just begun to understand. This is the power of the gospel that enables its proclamation to all philosophies and religions with the assurance that while the gospel of Christ is as exclusive as the one Word of grace from the eternal Father, it is not narrow in the sense of being limited by comparison with other religions or philosophies. The next decade will involve us in such a manner as will call for the most com­ passionate and most clear com­ munication of Christian evidences. In this sense we could have also spoken of the integration of the academic and the pragmatic, and the integra­ tion of the theological and the ex­ istential. But this is enough to lay before us the challenge of both outthinking, and outliving our age. ■ PAGE 3

New Series

Straight Talk We Help Because Others Helped Us by Henry Fast

Help! The Vietnamese are coming. In fact, practically every community already has a refugee family living in their midst. They are a people with a different culture and background. They speak a strange language and have un­ familiar culinary habits. They may not even know or

Letters CONCERNED ABO UT STA TEMENTRE “SPORTS FIGURES" I seldom read a magazine or newspaper without seeing something which elicits a response within me. Sometimes I feel dis­ turbed at what I have just read, at other times, guilty, and frequently, especially when reading a church paper, I am en­ couraged to continue living out my faith. Like most people, I rarely share my responses with the editor or the other readers. For once, I would like to make an exception. In the article, “What They See for 1980,” The Messenger, January 4, 1980, one of the contributors wrote, “Hope you don’t mind, but the young Christians and the sports figures will make one of the greatest impacts on society.” I do mind, and I would like to tell you why, without, I hope, sounding self-righteous or judgemental. Although I found the above statement very disturbing, the prediction may un­ fortunately be all too true. We live in a youth-oriented society in which, if your skin looks “over twenty-five,” is has to be stretched and/or covered up. There are many mature Christians who have a lot to offer, but if they are not young, sports heroes, or recently saved from a life of titillating sin, many people cannot be bothered with listening to them. By the end of the ’80s a high percentage of our church members will be middle-aged or older people who cannot throw a football without pulling a muscle and have no re­ cent and exciting conversion experience to recall. Will this mean that they cannot make an impact on society? The prediction that it will be sports figures, in other words, professional athletes, who will have the impact, and thus, presumably, be the models whom our young people will emulate, is even more disturbing. Although I feel that peoPAGE 4

worship our God. They are aliens in a strange land. Why are we taking this risk? Is there not a danger of them changing our lifestyle? Will they take our jobs, or worse, will they show us up as lazy and incompetent? Will they negate our "democratic system"? Yes, there is a risk. Helping people is usually risky. But we help because it is our privilege. We help because we have so much. We help because others helped us. We help because of the love of Christ working in and through us. We thank God for this opportunity.

Mr. Fast is on the faculty of the Steinbach Bible College, High School Department.

pie of all ages should be encouraged to participate in healthy physical activities, assuming that they are spiritually and emotionally healthy as well, I also feel that our church leaders’ earlier fears of where all this would lead us were well founded. Every year we read about in­ cidents such as people being killed in riots at soccer games, cars being overturned and burned after World Series games and hotels being wrecked by irate Grey Cup viewers. This list could go on almost ad infinitum. Many Mennonites, it seems, have not only given up on the idea of being non­ conformist in an environment where mass hysteria (not unlike the atmosphere at a rock concert) reigns. The prediction that it is in this milieu where we must look for our future prophets and models is indeed disturbing. My response is possibly somewhat ex­ aggerated due to the arrival of the January 4 issue of The Messenger almost coinciding with that of the January 7 edition of the Winnipeg Free Press. The second page of the newspaper carried an article entitled “Athletes Dedicated to Spreading the Gospel.” If the reporting was at all accurate, then the possibility that this is going to be representative of our future witness is appalling. When questioned about the rightness of “letting a guy have it,” Ger­ vais, a professional athlete, was quoted, “If the Lord didn’t want you doing that.

he wouldn’t have called you as a football player.” Surely, anyone can see that this argument could be used to justify any profession. When questioned about the modern advertising methods they were using to spread the Gospel, he was quoted, “If it’s a bad thing for Christiani­ ty to use their techniques, is it not a worse thing for Madison Avenue to use them?” If this is the kind of ethical think­ ing that will characterize our future witness, then I fear that we as a church will be making no impact at all. I hope that I have not offended un­ necessarily by responding in this way. For some time I have felt that any business, such as the professional sports industry, which trains otherwise sen­ sitive people to become highly com­ petitive, to the point where they become insensitive to the “humanness” of their competitors, should not receive our moral or financial support. As a result, I felt it was my duty to respond to the above two articles. In closing I would like to refer to the following words from 2 Cor. 5:16-17, “With us therefore worldly standards have ceased to count in our estimate of any man . . . When anyone is united to Christ, there is a new world; the old order has gone, and a new order has already begun” (NEB).' Peter Penner 914 Somerville Ave. Winnipeg, Man. RST IBS

Church Dedication Ridgewood E.M.C. Church Three miles north and three miles east of Steinbach on Highway No. 311.

Sunday, February 24, 3:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m. — Dedication service 4:30-7:30 — Open house (Lunch will be served) 8:00 — Music Concert Come and praise the Lord with us. Everyone welcomel THE MESSENGER

From the Editor February EMC Ministerial Meeting Optimistic Some 24 churches shared by way of report at the regular February EMC ministerial meeting held at the Aberdeen church in Winnipeg. Traditionally this sharing period is the first item on the agenda. By and large the reports indicated that churches were active and pastors op­ timistic with new members being added by baptism and transfer. Bible studies, house fellowships and Bi­ ble Coffees seem to be on the increase as more and more see the value of small groups. Some half dozen brethren reported on some form of the above and the blessings resulting. One commented, “I don’t know if I’ve ever seen something like that before.” At least two churches had looked at their church program for effectiveness in future ministries. One church was considering expansion to provide more room. One reported of doubling club work since last year. Another reported of increased atten­ dance. Good news was heard from our prison chaplain. He related in particular of the conversion of one inmate. One senses also that our pastors are keenly aware of the need round about them. Said one, after hearing the prison report, “If we would go around from house to house we would see very many people in the same kind of need and they’re crying for help.” Another main­ tained that “the number of needy people far exceeds the number we can help.” Although the paid pastor system seems firmly entrenched in the EMC it is good to see that there are still churches who conduct ministerial elections from their own midst - even for a pastor. Thus there were reports of one minister election and one for pastor in the process. In all, six new ministerial members were present. Of these, four were deacons and two were ministers. (The EMC ministerial is composed of both deacons and ministers.)

The two brethren delegated to take part in the MCC (Canada) meeting at Vineland, Ontario reported back. Our new member was impressed with the ex­ tent of involvement. 'The brother who had attended the Native Awareness Day felt that maybe another consultation should be held where evangelical Mennonite mis­ sions (to natives) would be featured. Earnest concern was also expressed regarding misinterpretation of events in the police action at Carberry last fall. But it was not all business as usual at Saturday’s ministerial meeting. Liberal input was given by three brethren in in­ spirational and teaching sessions. A challenging devotional by the host pastor, as well as a lesson on preparing ex­ pository sermons, were given in the mor­ ning. The afternoon session closed with a lecture on Anabaptist distinctives.

EMC ministerial meetings are held some four times a year, including the one during the annual convention. They are appreciated as a time of sharing, learning and action. And as a fringe benefit, social interaction during noon and coffee break!

Where is Honesty? According to the praise given to a U.S. senator for performing his duty, it would almot seem that old fashioned virtue is in short supply.

The occasion of the praise was when Senator Larry Pressler “refused to go along with dishonest dealings” used in an FBI “string” operation, according to the report. This praise for “doing what I’m sup­ posed to do,” as the senator is quoted, makes one wonder whether many others fall for the temptations that come into their path. He said, “It’s a sad case that I’m getting some recognition for doing what I’m supposed to do.”

We would say, “Keep on doing what you’re supposed to do. Senator.”

Where is Justice? A Native artist, according to a report in the Winnipeg Tribune of February 5, received two years imprison­ ment for breaking into a Sargent Avenue art gallery. Court was told he was into.xicated at the time of the offence and alcohol was cited as the demon behind his lengthy criminal record, the report stated. Defence counsel suggested that the 27year-old native artist (Lawson) “perhaps deserves more of a chance than other in­ dividuals,” to which the presiding judge is said to have replied that talent is “not a shield nor crutch to justify unlawful conduct.” In the same issue of the Tribune there is an account of a Winnipeg man who is acquitted of two counts of armed robbery and two of assaulting police because, as the report states, he was “heavily drugged” on LSD when he committed the offence. One is led to exclaim, “Where is justice?”

CONTRIBUTORS: Myrnn Aniisbnrt/er is president of Eastern Mennonite College. He may be better known here as our annual convention speaker in 1978. The article is reprinted b.v permission from The Seminarian, a publication of Eastern Men­ nonite Seminary, Harrisonburg, Virginia. Marilyn Dneck is a housewife, living in Steinbach. Her husband, Lloyd Dueck, is the secretary-treasurer at the E.M. Church in Steinbach. Friiiik and Maryv Kroeker (Rosenort) are involved with radio work (Radio ZP-30) in Paraguay. Lvai and Elizabeth Reimer (Steinbach) are serving in Germany with the EMC Board of Missions. Kathy Friesen is the wife of John Friesen, teacher in Portage la Prairie, Man. Anne Klassen, is a free lance writer from High Bluff, Man. Bernie Wiebe is the editor of “The Men­ nonite”, a General Conference Mennonite Church weekly paper.

COVER: Windmill at the Mennonite Village Museum, Steinbach, Man, By the editor.

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 livirtg; 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.

FEBRUARY 15, 1980

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invitations and the rest would be hanging up posters. After lunch there would be a time of prayer and Bible study and then a children’s meeting in the bus. At 4:00 p.m. the doors would open for the young people. The showing of films in the youth center was a good means of bringing the young people into the bus later on. Night after night the young people kept coming. Some pastors even brought their youth groups. While the visitors were served a cup of tea one of the workers would sit down next to them and start a conversa­ tion. It was amazing how quickly the con­ versation would turn to their problems, and how deep seated these problems were! All these conversations led into the crusade where the Gospel was presented in a very clear way.

Crusade in Seesen, Germany with Martin Homann, director of Youth for Christ in Germany.

GERMANY

One young girl who was listening to the message, could not wait till the service was over. She asked whether we could have prayer together at once; she was wonderfully saved.

Martin Homann Crusade: Seesen The Lord Hath Done Great Things Three weeks of intensive evangelism in the Season area have come to a close. This was our first large venture and was a tremendous undertaking for a small

church like ours with both state churches, with a combined membership of 20,000, not favouring evangelism of this kind. After much prayer and consulting with the Martin Homann Team we felt led of the Lord to undertake this city- and country-wide crusade. The dates were set for the Tea-Mobile to start its particular type of ministry January 14 and lead into the crusade which was to take place in a large hall January 24-February 3. Prayer groups were organized in different areas. Even churches in Hungary and Rumania wrote that they were having special prayer for this cam­ paign. Many pastors were contacted in this area. Many encouraging responses came but also some discouraging ones. Some asked whether we had not con­ sidered the weather conditions at this time of year, or whether we had taken the

Missions PAGE 6

tremendous financial burden into con­ sideration, or what if the state churches will not cooperate? We had considered and this is what drove us to our knees again and again. Rather fearful, we began making applications for hanging up posters in the city, for the use of a large parking lot in the center of the city where we could park

Attendance increased night after night in spite of snow and icy roads. the bus, for the showing of a Christian film in the public youth center, and for the use of a large hall for the evangelistic meetings. All the requests were granted and even the local paper began to report very favourably. On January 14 the large double decker bus moved into Seesen and parked on the reserved parking lot. A team of five young people had come with the bus. They were quickly introduced to our young people and a program was set up for the coming weeks. In the morning most of the group would be handing out

Martin Homann, director of Youth for Christ in Germany, together with his team, presented the Gospel night after night in a very impressive way through song and message. The attendance in­ creased night after night in spite of snow and icy roads. Many came after the meetings for counselling. We felt the Spirit of God at work. Never have we felt such unity and warmth among the believers here even though we came from many different denominations. God’s presence was felt by all. A young girl sit­ ting next to me listened to the message. She could not wait till the service was ended. She asked whether we could have prayer together at once; she was wonder­ fully saved. At the end of the campaign we could say, “The Lord hath done above that we could ask or think.” The hall was crowded night after night in spite of bad road con­ ditions, the financial needs were met and a deep work had been done in many lives. Now the follow-up work begins and here again we will need your prayers. In­ vitations for new Bible study groups are opening up and we will need to carry on the prayer groups already started. Then there are the regular weekly church ser­ vices and other activities that will take much of our time. Time for evangelism seems to be running out and we would like to make use of all the open doors. Thank you again for your prayers. Levi and Elizabeth Reimer THE MESSENGER

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numerous attempts to “reach” their brothers but with little success. The Moros, a very intelligent and aggressive people, with the help of New Tribes missionaries, soon came up with their own gospel radio program which Radio ZP-30 began airing in 1977. Today the Moros produce and finance their own program, “The Voice of the Ayoreo,” which is broadcast every Saturday night. Their Christian brothers in Bolivia, a much larger and much earlier evangelized group, have written to ZP-30, telling us that they listen regularly - but what about the still “lost and wandering sheep”? About a month and a half ago six Moro men, their wives and some children, came out to this Paraguayan rancher’s place, about 400 km. northeast of here. The Paraguayan was afraid because he couldn’t communicate with them, but the Moros really didn’t seem to have any bad Tito (on the left) with two of his brothers and his father. intentions. After a few days, on a Satur­ day, he happened to remember the Moro PARAGUAY program on Radio ZP-30, so he got out his radio and brought it to them. Great ex­ citement followed as they heard someone Broadcasting the Good News from their own people, in their own “This gospel... unto all nations, and Lengua, Chulupi and the Sanapana that language, speaking from this strange lit­ then ...” we had in mind. Little did we dream that tle box bringing them such wonderful Out from their hiding place of centuries the then still hostile and dangerous Moros News! The Paraguayan, still wanting to (likely milleniums) of spiritual darkness (now called Ayoreos) would cash in on the get rid of them, finally convinced them to and the ruthless clutches of the “green deal too. Only in 1966 the New Tribes mis­ get going, but told them they could come hell” they came - hung around the sionaries made their first peaceful con­ again in a week and hear more. Natural­ Paraguayan’s ranch, apparently not tact with a group of Moros and opened a ly, the Moros were back in plenty of time hostile, but fear gripped the station way up north from Filadelfia. for the next week’s broadcast! Paraguayan’s heart. In desperation he Other groups of Moros gradually gave in After four weeks of this type of com­ brought out his little radio and for the and as the gospel took effect soon a munication, with the Moros’ interest first time this little group of “long-lost” church of born again believing Moros was mounting, the Paraguayan, a Catholic, Moros heard the Good News through formed. The “Pig People,” as the Moros and only 75 km. from the Catholic mis­ Radio ZP-30! call them (a splinter group from way sion, decided to go by jeep along the rugg­ Back in 1965 when we first entertained back, and their literal enemies), resisted ed trail all the way to Filadelfia to find the idea of setting up a gospel radio sta­ any contact and kept hiding in the wilds. someone who could personally talk to this tion in the Chaco it was primarily the The Christian Moros themselves made group. What excitement for the New 'Tribes missionaries and the Moro Christians to hear of such wonderful developments! The Moros lost no time now in sending Tito, one of their ministers, along with the Paraguayan. However, the last we heard was that due to heavy rains they had not been able to make it back by jeep, but had turned around and were now try­ ing to make it by boat up the Paraguayan River from Asuncion, about 1000 km. Of course, the story is not finished. But wouldn’t we agree that probably for this one incident alone it has paid to build this radio station? “This gospel of the Kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations (tribes), and then shall the end come” (Matthew 24:14). Yes, according to all indications, one of these days the very “last nation” will have heard and Christ will come! Isn’t it a thrill to be alive and to have a part in this Some Moros in Sunday morning worship in their palm-log church at El Faro, final hour of world evangelism and hasten His coming? Frank P. Kroeker north of Filadelfia.

“Unto All Nations”

FEBRUARY 15, 1980

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What

Shall It Profit? by Marilyn Dueck What kind of return would you expect if you invested an entire summer of your life and a sizeable amount of your savings in a term of service with a mission? (Most, if not all, summer mission programs require the worker to provide his or her own transportation to and from the field as well as some support for the months involved.) If you are a young per­ son, that would mean one summer’s potential earnings gone, plus a good por­ tion of what you had already saved for your future education. If you are someone who is already established in a line of work, it could mean losing your job, and an uncertain future. So what’s the profit? It would be hard for me to predict your personal rate of return, but from ex­ perience I would say that the returns are definitely long-term, reaching even into eternity. But before I tell you what you might expect in the way of returns from

such an investment, let’s take a look at such an experience from two opposing sides.

Answer: I have been interested in fulltime mission work for some time, so I felt this would be one way to see just what is involved in foreign missionary service. Q: How were you led to apply to Wycliffe Bible Translators? A: My friend, Grace Thiessen, is af­ filiated with Wycliffe, so I heard a lot about the mission from her. I had applied to another mission as well, but God directed me to serve with this one. Q: What value for the mission was your eleven-week stay at their station? A: I typed grammar files for them, which is very monotonous and tiring work, but it is required for government records. Then for four weeks I lived out in a tribe with a veteran missionary who is 60 years old. As a companion to her I helped with the enormous task of primitive living as well as teaching very basic number concepts to the young girls of the tribe, in their own language. Q: What experiences did you have that you feel will assist you in finding God’s plan for your life? A: I believe that the sum of my experiences during the eleven weeks with the mission gave me the assurance that God will equip me for whatever place of service He has designed for me, no matter where the location or what the work may be.'

The Lord began teaching me

some very important lessons,

Viewed from the side of the summer worker, I questioned Brenda Reimer Penner who spent her most recent summer in Peru working with Wycliffe Bible Translators. Question: What prompted you to in­ vestigate the possibilities of a summer in missions? PAGE 8

Mid-summer found me living in a tribe of Indians with only one other white person. I was surprised to learn that these tribal people were not bored, but were very content with only the very basics of life. I was not prepared for the heat or the bugs, and they proved to be a great hindrance to the enjoyment of my stay. Some days I would awake with a feeling of despair, not knowing how I’d manage to get through the day; however, I found that if I kept busy the days went by quickly. Living in such open quarters was also a frustration to me, for we only had mosquito nets over our cots for dressing and sleeping, but the remainder of our ac­ tivities were open to the curious eyes of the Indians who found everything we did extremely' fascinating. Anger rose within me particularly when the young boys stood and stared at me for long periods of time. My inability to communicate ver­ bally with them added to the tension in many situations during my short stay,

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one being that I cannot run , away from myself. When I got The jungle had a very different kind of geography than the open spaces of the to Peru my surroundings were Manitoba prairie and I found myself feelvery different and yet I was the ing very hemmed in at times. But realiz­ same person with the same ing that I could see farthest when I looked feelings which Manitoba

Brenda with pupils she taught numbers.

Where Brenda lived.

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Q: Can you identify some of the feelings, either positive and/or negative, that you had at the beginning of your stay, at mid-summer, and during the last few weeks before returning home? A: There was a deep feeling of great joy when I arrived at Yarinacocha, the Peruvian base of Wycliffe Translators. Part of my joy was in knowing that I would be having a part in God’s work there. As I looked around and got my bearings I noted the differences of life in that coun­ try, and I was impressed with the fact that the streets and houses, in fact, everything, was so dirty and yet the majority of the Peruvian people appeared clean and classy. I guess part of these feelings I experienced would be included in culture shock.

up, the Lord showed me an important lesson. No matter what the circumstances which seem to hem me in on every side. He is always waiting for me to look up to Him. The last few weeks of the summer found me again at the base in the community of missionaries, and these weeks were probably the most difficult due to a growing awareness that I would soon be going home. As a result I found myself living in the future rather than the present and it was difficult to keep my mind on my work. There was also an underlying feeling that I certainly had not wasted my summer, but that God had used it for my profit as well as for His. Q: Did you make any discoveries about missionaries or missionary life that surprised you? A: Yes, even though I’ve often heard it said, I was surprised to see how very much at home career missionaries are on their particular field. They have all of cant'd an page 15

THE MESSENGER

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A summer worker replaced a roof on this building in Panama.

Interview with Clifford and Diana Reimer In an equally informative interview with Clifford and Diana Reimer I learned that the summer worker is both an asset and a liability to the career missionary who takes on responsibility for the novice. The Reimers have served with the Gospel Missionary Union for twenty-one years, fifteen of these in the country of Panama. They are presently based in Steinbach from where Mr. Reimer serves as representative for the mission. They have been assigned to head up the 1980 summer missions program with GMU. Q: With how many and what type of summer workers have you had contact? A: We have worked with summer mis­ sionaries for approximately ten years, and they can be grouped into two main categories, the young person, usually a Bible college student, and the more mature individual who takes time from his or her established profession to give a summer of service to the mission. Q: How do you feel about these summer helpers? A: Mostly positive, but the program is not without problems. Q: What reason do you have for feeling that way? A: Well, sometimes young people come to us with wrong attitudes, and there is the language barrier which does not allow us to send them on errands by themselves. It really can be more work for the career missionary to keep the summer worker busy. But we find that the main value of these people coming to

the field is not in the work that they do; rather, it is the effect that their short stay has on their own spiritual growth and their outlook on missions. Q: What personal qualifications would you consider to be the most important for a summer worker? A: The biggest personal asset they can bring to the field is that of adaptability. They should be willing to do anything they are asked to do and be able to pitch in with helpful hands in the often FEBRUARY 15, 1980

When sightseeing summer workers may go to see this Old Colonial Church at Nato.

laborious tasks of daily living on the mis­ sion field, i.e. preparing and cleaning up meals, etc. Their attitude toward the native people is also of extreme impor­ tance. A loving acceptance without wan­ ting to impose their own culture goes a long way in establishing rapport with the people. Such an attitude crosses language barriers very effectively. Q: What value does the summer program have for your mission? A: A good proportion of summer workers return for a longer term of ser­ vice or as career missionaries. They do make extra work for the field missionary; however, there are also many routine tasks which they can do, helping to free the missionary for other work. Q: Does the summer program have any value for you personally? A: Very definitely! We enjoy getting to know the workers and make lasting friendships with many of them. We also catch some of their enthusiasm which gives us new inspiration and a fresh at­ titude for our work. It also helps to make us more tolerant, getting us out of some of our own habit patterns. It’s really good for us. Q: Can you describe some interesting experiences which you have had in rela­ tion to the summer program? A: Specific incidents are difficult to recall; however, taking the summer workers down Central Avenue in Panama City is always fun for us. Their first visit to the open market is an experience to test the senses. Sights, sounds, and ugh — smells, combine to make it an un­ forgettable trip. It is most interesting for us to observe the varying reactions to this kind of shopping. Another thing which happens when young people come to Panama for a few months is that they take every chance possible to visit the beach. Even though we warn them of the dangers of sunburn under the Panamanian sun, they often have to find out for themselves. I remember one young lady who wanted one last time at the beach before going home. She stayed a little too long and came back very badly burned. A few days

later she was to be a bridesmaid at a wed­ ding. No doubt all the guests knew where she had been! Perhaps the most enlightening ex­ perience for the young people is that of attending Spanish church services. Here they discover that God speaks all languages, that there is a viable bond between God’s children everywhere, and that when we lift our voices in praise to God it does not matter which language is used. « * * So what can I expect to profit from such an investment? Is that what you are thinking? The returns which I have ex­ perienced in the ten years since my summer in Ecuador with HCJB have multiplied themselves many times. From this vantage point I would say that you can expect (1) to gain a better understan­ ding of missions and missionaries, thus (2) increasing your ability to pray for mis­ sionaries effectively because you will un­ derstand to a greater degree their re­ quests. You will also (3) see the impor­ tance of writing to missionaries because you will experience first-hand what “mail call” means in a strange country. You can expect (4) to have some very interesting, enlightening, and perhaps humorous ex­ periences. It can (5) benefit other young people who are planning for a summer of service as you give them practical hints about what kind of things to take with them. But perhaps one of the most impor­ tant returns would be (6) that it is an ex­ cellent way to let God show you whether He wants you to be a missionary on a foreign field or if He wants you to be a missionary at home. For, you see, geographical location has very little to do with being a missionary. As for the returns to expect in terms of (7) your own spiritual growth, that will depend largely upon the attitude with which you go. The late Amy Carmicheal, one of God’s great warriors who worked in the land of India, has said, “Allow God to do more for you than you can understand.” Ask Him if there is a summer of mission work in His grand design for you. The profits??? Time and eternity will tell! ■ PAGE 9

Mission Grams Paraguay — Luella Loewen relates of life at La Esperanza: "The Sanapana are beginning to harvest their cotton fields. It is hard work and often they come complaining of severe headaches due to the heat. "They fellowshipped this morning - out under the trees. Somehow the outdoors has a way of drawing one's thoughts to worship more readily than an indoor service does where people are coughing and the air is stuffy. To them, of course, it makes little difference, but healthwise the former is so much better, "We have the clinic open from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. There are the occasional ones who like to try our patience and come in the afternoon anyway. However, there aren't nearly as many as before and we try to explain that if it is anything urgent they may come anytime. "Linda and I have both been going to the villages more often this year and especially trying to keep a closer tab on all our TB patients. This involves house to house visitations

and counting the number of pills they have in their bottles." — Frank Kroeker has consented to teach at the Menno Bible School one day a week this coming Bible school year. He has been asked to teach Acts of the Apostles, Missions and Personal Evangelism. Nicaragua — Clinic news from Doris Friesen: The MCC medicine donation has arrived so there is a fairly good supply of medicine on hand right now. Public Health Leaders (PHL) are continuing to give regular consultation and most of the needed vaccinations in the four PHL clinics under Doris's charge. — Pray that the Granada group may be granted a lot for the purpose of building a church. The group here is grow­ ing and is in need of a place to worship. — Camp Maranatha activities: Children's camps in February with the Sunday school superintendents in charge of planning these camps. A women's retreat for March 20-22. Construction of some cabins is to begin in February.

^ohn & Connic'J^cimcr TFtEVOFt & ANDREA

NICARAGUA CENTRAL AMERICA

John and Connie Reimer, Trevor and Andrea, left for Nicaragua on February 10 for another term of mis­ sionary service. Pray that God will give them an effective ministry there.

E.M.C. STUDY CONFERENCE “MARRIAGE AND DIVORCE” 1. The Theology of Marriage, Ed Plett, Pastor, Prairie Rose E.M.C. Church 2. Marriage Breakdown — Ernie Isaac, Counsellor, Eden Mental Health Center, Winkler

March 15, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Braeside EMC Church, 1011 Munroe Ave., Winnipeg, Man. Lunch will be served at the church. The sessions are open to all interested parties, both men and women.

PAGE 10

Latin American Congress in Lima The Latin American Congress on Evangelization, met after a ten-year lapse, in Lima, Peru October 31 to November 8, 1979. Some 255 delegates from 21 countries, representing 39 denominations, attended. Two Mennonites were present. One was Albert Enns, M.B. missionary in Asuncion, Paraguay. Two unplanned gatherings toward the close of CLADE II commanded intense in­ terest: firsthand reports from Cuba and Nicaragua. The delegates from Cuba, in­ cluding a theology instructor, reported that though evangelistic meetings cannot be held in public places, and there is no access for the church to radio and other mass media, Christians in Cuba ex­ perience freedom to worship, instruct their youth, and even evangelize, both in their homes and their churches. Albert Enns observed that delegates ranged all the way from strong liberation theology proponents, to the missionary who spent his time in evangelism and discipling. Other observations by Enns: The charismatic movement is growing. The liberation theology forces are gaining. The poverty conditions of so many in Latin America engenders a strong backlash toward capitalism and a growing acceptance of the socialist governments. The (7)ngress brought out the immense impact "renewed” Catholics are having. The Central American delegation called for a new appreciation of Roman Catholic charismatics in particular, as an evangelizing force. THE MESSENGER

Messenger News

MCC (Canada) annual meeting in Vineland, Ontario, January 18-19, 1980. At table, left to right: Peter Rempel, MCC (Canada) staff; Larry Kehler, Secretary; Frank H. Epp, Vice-Chairman; Hugo Jantz, Chairman; J. M. Klassen, Executive Secretary of MCC (Canada).

Refugee theme dominates

MCC (Canada) ' » agenda “While we are gathered in this place of peace and worship, there are other parts of the world where unrest and conflict abound — beyond our comprehension — which challenge everything MCC was created for about 60 years ago,” Hugo Jantz’ opening words to the 16th annual meeting of MCC (Canada) at Vineland, Ontario, January 18-19. Ross Nigh’s opening meditation, based on Philippians 3:12-14 shared a “dream of Jesus for MCC (Canada) in the 80s”; 1) renewed emphasis on justice; 2) more attention to lifestyle (“We’ve shown we are willing to give more; are we also will­ ing to change?”); 3) wholistic service (“Our message would be stronger if we advocated VS for all, not just our youth and retired persons.”); 4) to become more active peace practitioners and promoters (“The first word of Jesus after his resurrection was; ‘Peace (shalom)’ ”). In addition to the usual five provinces, MCC (Canada) 1980 also had representa­

tion by Mennonite leaders from (Quebec and from the Atlantic provinces. MCC (Canada) reported a 1979 income of $6,483,337. Of this amount, govern­ ment grants were $2,710,000; direct con­ stituency contributions $2,476,000. J. M. Klassen, executive secretary, commented, “We enjoy very rongenial relations with CIDA (Canadian International Develop­ ment Agency) and provincial funding departments, but we do want to remain the service agency of the church and not allow the temptations to be popular, big FEBRUARY 15, 1980

and powerful to overcome our need to be humble, faithful and obedient to our Lord.” The mood was affirmative and expansionist. Extra staff or staff time were approved for Native Concerns, Peace and Social Concerns, Die Mennonitische Post, Offender Ministries, and Voluntary Service. MCC (Canada)’s Refugee Assistance Program (RAP) was never far removed from the agenda. Lamar Fretz, Brethren in Christ board member, said at the beginning, “The “RAP has made the world a little better. It has also helped our own people by bringing the missionary experience—-cross-cultural at that — right to the local congregations.” The special public evening service was titled “Doing Justice To the Sojourner.” Main speaker was CMBC president, George K. Epp, himself a refugee in Russia in the 1940s. Art Driedger, overseas director for MCC (Canada) reported 3,400 refugees

sponsored^ by^MCC-related efforts in

Canada. Of 550 constituency . . churches, , , 430 have already committed themselves to participation in RAP. About 2,000 of ihese refugees have already arrived in Canada. ' Consensus of the board was that MCCrelated churches would also take in han­ dicapped or other “hard” cases once these were made known. Die Mennonitische Post, a German newspaper created by MCC (Canada) for the about 100,000 Mennonites who have

no publications of their own, now has 5500 subscribers in six countries. It was felt the Post has already contributed to a missions and service consciousness among some of the readership. Closest to becoming “hot” agenda was the Winnipeg-Akron question of respon­ sibility in overseas work. RAP focused the issue. US Mennonites did not become nearly as deeply involved as Canadians. Several board members — partly rein­ forced by constituency and Mennonite press — said the efforts in southeast Asia were hindered because all projects have to be cleared by Akron. If MCC (Canada) had been able to go directly, probably more material aid — especially food — could have been distributed. From this discussion came a revised “Southeast Asia 1980 Program Plan” to be considered by MCC International. Some field staff have resigned over the whole “problem” and MCC has been badly understaffed in SE Asia. Steps will be

‘’fe“,'mi'^S«neasine» about the

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dictating MCC s approach. A concern was voiced by several, “If there are people in need, we must try to aid these persons. regardless of the immediate political climate . .. MCC is simply not structured for emergency responses.” The SE Asia tension probably contributed to a “fast” adoption of the proposal to create a stronger, separate MCC (US) which would then be a partner with MCC (Canada) in MCC Inter­ national. A 1980 budget of $8,543,552 was readily adopted. Marlene Toews, Winnipeg teacher; Frank H. Epp, professor; and Stephen Lee, Vancouver Chinese Mennonite pastor; were newly elected to the MCC (Canada) board. Newly elected executive members for 1980 are Frank H. Epp, Joe Neufeld and Peter H. Peters. Bernie Wiebe Natives held a mirror before us

MCC (Canada) had invited all secretaries

i,..2 moderators ffrom y. and Mennonite and BrethrenTn Christ ChurchesTnCanadr— national and regional - to “Native Awareness Day”, January 17 at Vineland, Ontario. MCC (Canada) board, staff and provincial directors were also there. Arrangements had been made for Adam Cuthand, Toronto Anglican Cree clergyman; Bob Overvold, director of aboriginal rights of the Dene nation, Northwest Territories; Stan McKay, Koostatak, Manitoba Cree United Church PAGE 11

of Canada clergyman; and Ron LaFrance and Selma Delisle, from the Mohawk na­ tion, New York state; to speak to us. Topics were: “Aspirations of the Dene”; “Issues facing the Akwesasne”; “Land Theology and Ownership”; and “Expec­ tations from the Church.” Such a day arose out of the continuing misunderstandings in the constituency about MCC’s Native Concerns program. MCC has a mandate to work among Native Peoples. But when this program gets into land rights, nationhood and selfdetermination about forms of worship, controversy inevitably surfaces. Here was a chance to hear it straight from the natives — Christian and non­ Christian. White man has too readily abused the living earth and failed to replenish its resources. White man too readily colonized the Native Peoples and taught them dependence and submission. Then white Christians come regularly with a Gospel of “freedom, reconciliation and oneness.” Stan McKay said, “Today we are asking you to recognize us as your brothers and sisters, with a true oneness in Jesus Christ. . . our people face death because our land is dying.” Bob Overvold said the Dene want what Mennonites want, “A right to our own forms of education; a right to choose our language; a right to worship as we choose.” McKay reminded the over 125 MCCrelated white persons, “Sharing in part of God’s creation is a symbol of MCC. Our sense of God is one of all-over-caring. This is also part of the rich Anabaptist heritage ... but too many Mennonites feel urged to go with society, counter to your heritage ... A spiritual understan­ ding of the land begins with a spiritual understanding of yourself.” Vigorous discussion followed the input. Several MCC persons shared experiences which parallel the Native Peoples journey. Others simply could not yet con­ ceive a place for a unique Native form of worship and peoplehood. Nor was consen­ sus found on new ways to be missionaries among Native Peoples. But there was agreement that such direct meetings are helpful. We must pledge prayer support and greater efforts in getting to know each other. A findings statement — at the end of the day — recommended MCC must further work at affirming Native Peoples and helping its constituency to become more intelligently involved in their struggles. Secondly it urged development of “a Biblical theology of land ownership and stewardship, keeping in mind the state­ ment that ‘if the land dies we all die’.” Bernie Wiebe PAGE 12

four young people were baptized at the Mt. Salem church on January 20. Back row (left to right): Nick Peters, Jesse Dyck, Rev. C.F. Dueck. Front row: Mrs. Tina Banman, Mr. Pete Banman. FOUR BAPTIZED

Mt. Salem, Ont.: Exciting things are happening at the Mt. Salem E.M. Church! Evening services, with Rev. Milton Fast as speaker, were held January 16-19. The following day, Januar.v 20, four young people who recently accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Saviour were baptized and received into the membership of the church. The four, Peter Banman, Tina Banman, Nick Peters and Jesse Dyck, gave their thrilling testimonies to an overflowing church audience. The bap­ tism marked the result of the power of prayer. Much time was spent in prayer within the brotherhood for the conversion of these young people. One testimony stated, “This day, this event, is the result of prayer. God answers prayer!” We were pleased to have with us Rev. Menno Kroeker and Rev. Edwin Plett for this very special event. Communion service was held the same afternoon. The annual membership meeting was held January 26. It was a breakfast meeting with the young people serving breakfast as a “treat” before to fore getting ge the “nitty gritty” of an annual meeting. God be praised for this meeting for it showed that the small beginning of the Mt. Salem congregation has grown spiritually as well as numerically. ELECTIONS HELD Rosenort, Man.: On January 27 our con­ gregation observed the Lord’s Supper and also had a leadership election. Rev. Melvin Penner of Blumenort was our guest speaker for the occasion. Rev. John­ ny Loewen was re-elected as pastor for a three-year term, and Rev. Menno Kroeker as assistant pastor. Now it’s up to us to

undergird them in prayer. In other elections earlier, Ron Kroeker was chosen as songleader and Rev. Benny Friesen is again the Sunday school superintendent. Mrs. Frieda Loewen was elected leader of the Ladies’ Fellowship. “Serve the Lord with gladness.” At the January Mission Nite John Reimer reported and showed slides of Nicaragua. Surely, God is able to protect His children in any situation! May you again find Him sufficient in every cir­ cumstance as you go back to the land of your calling. Ernest Funk accompanied our young married couples to Winnipeg on January 31 to present a program at the Union Gospel Mission. February 4 was Steinbach Bible College Sunday in all the local E.M. churches which concluded with two meetings in the Rosenort Fellowship Chapel in the after­ noon and evening. In our morning service we were favoured with two solo selections by LeRoy Bartel, and then a message from Isaiah by Rev. Sam Epp. Thank you. DEACON COMMISSIONING SERVICE Ridgewood, Man.: A deacon com­ missioning service was held on January 13 for Victor and Valida Friesen, and Gilmer and Irene Penner. The Living Letters C Quartet sang two well-chosen songs am. id Rev. Arden Thiessen had „a suitable message on the Christian faith in Christian service.

SAY)IT CAMP Rosenort Fellowship (Man.): “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (II Peter 3:9). November began at the Rosenort Fellowship Chapel with the annual mis­ sions conference. The keynote speaker was Ben Eidse, missionary on furlough from Zaire. His basic theme throughout a series of five messages was “The Kingdom of God.” He emphasized the fact that we as Christians are presently living in that Kingdom and that we have responsibilities to live now as citizens of a heavenly Kingdom, especially in our response to material possessions. Each evening a particular mission field was highlighted. Ian Wallaces shared concer­ ning Upper Volta; Joe Reimers showed slides of their involvement in Rhodesia; Peter Thiessens presented a resume of their preparation for the field of Mexico; Ernest Funks spotlighted the work in Paraguay; and Milton Fast showed mismis­ sions from the home office viewpoint. The women had a special treat with a Mission Da.v on Saturday with Helen Eidse as guest speaker. Mrs. Eidse shared some of her personal insights into the matter of the Christian’s reponse to material goods. A highlight of the day was an African-style noon meal featuring chicken in a peanut sauce. Perhaps others would like to try it: Brown chicken pieces THE MESSENGER

and sliced onions in oil. Add 4 to 5 cups water. Add 1 tbsp, subala, 3 tbsp, of tomato paste, salt, red pepper to taste, % cup peanut butter, and 2 beef or chicken cubes. Simmer until meat is tender. Add vegetables (cabbage or spinach). Cook un­ til tender. When ready, take meat out and serve on platter. Pour sauce over rice. Remember to pray for our African Chris­ tian brothers and sisters during the meal. Five young people wer received into "■ ■ were fellowship on November• 18 upon their profession of faith and baptism; Valerie Flett, Jeannette Kornelsen, Russel Flett, Bob Friesen and Kelly Brandt. Later in the afternoon the fellowship of believers gathered to remember Christ’s death in the Communion service and to show love for one another in footwashing. What have the young people been doing at Rosenort Fellowship Chapel? The teens took charge of a morning service in November with Dan Reimer sharing the message. Dan was also challenged by attending the Urbana missionary con­ ference during the Christmas break. The children’s choir, under the direction of Helen Reimer, thrilled us with the children’s musical, “365 Days of Christ­ mas,” as the feature of the annual Sun­ day school Christmas program. The group also shared their enthusiasm at the Winkler Eden Mental Health Centre, at Union Gospel Mission and at the Aber­ deen church in Winniipeg. “Serve the Lord with gladness; come before His presence with singing” (Psalm 100:2). Snow Camp started 1980 off on a positive note for about 30 young- people _.-j . 1. . 1 X.. T . of and the «“-----------------young-at-heart. ” In spiti -3O‘’C readings and a few cases of frost fi ­ bite, most reported a profitable weekend of exercise, both physical and spiritual. Andy Sheldon, a dynamic worker with YFC Campus Clrusade from Toronto, was the camp speaker. He shared practically on how the Christian rededicates his life to Christ every day and every hour. Someone reported that they had “heard it all before, but this time the message was so simple and straightforward. You weren’t listening to Andy Sheldon; you were sitting at the feet of Jesus.” “And he said to them all, ‘If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me’ ” (Luke 9:23).

Births PENNER — to Lome and Annie Penner of Ridgewood, Man., a son, Marlin Blake, on January 13, 1980.

PENNER — to Earl and Florence Penner of Kola, Man., a daughter. Hazel Phoebe, on February 2, 1980. LOEWEN — to Peter and Florence Loewen of Rosenort, Man., a son, Douglas Peter, on February 4, 1980.

FEBRUARY 15, 1980

EMC Post-Secondary Student Meeting The Up-Side-Doam Kingdom by Donald B. Kraybill, Herald Press "The Upside-Doirn Kingdom merits wide circulation, reading, and study,” ac­ cording to Willard M. Swartley, professor at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminaries. “It combines radical Christian ethical perspective, rooted in scholarly biblical and sociological thinking, with an easy and interesting style. The response it asks for is not, ‘Do I like it?’ but ‘What will I do about it?’ ” “The excitement of reading Donald B. Kraybill’s book, The Upside-Doivn Kingdom, is not so much that he says anything about the kingdom of God that has not been said before,” Don Ratzlaff comments in The Christian Leader. “It is that he says it in a refreshing, understan­ dable style that focuses on the substan­ tive message of the gospel in a clear way.” Ratzlaff recommends the book highly “for all those who have chosen the label ‘Christian’ — both the skeptical believer who doubts the biblical support for a ‘socialized’ gospel, and especially the new believer who has walked the sawdust trail but wonders ‘What now?’ ” Kraybill is actively involved in a house church and in ministries to ex-offenders. He is author of Our Star-Spangled Faith, a study of civil religion (Herald Press, 1976). The Upside-Down Kingdom by Donald B. Kraybill is available in bookstores in a quality trade paperback edition for $5.95 ($6.90 in Canada).

February 29, 3:00 p.m. Room 205 University Center University of Manitoba

“The Authority of the Bible” Speaker: Ben Eidae

EMC Board of Education and Publication Box 1268, Steinbach, Man. Tel: 326-6401

Coming February 24 Ridgewood church dedica­ tion. February 29 EMC Post-Secondary Stu­ dent Meeting at the University of Manitoba with Ben Eidse. March 3-7 Institute for ministers and laymen, Mennonite Brethren Bible College, Winnipeg, Man. March 7-9 Youth Alive 80 at the Stein­ bach Bible College. March 15 EMC Study Conference on Divorce and Remarriage, Braeside Church, 1011 Munroe Ave., Winnipeg, Man. March 28-30 Regional Conference, La Crete, Alberta.

MBBC Announces Institute For Ministers and Laymen Theme: Church and the Family 1. Series: Biblical Perspectives on Family Relationships Allen Guenther and John Regehr, MBBC faculty 2. Series; Enriching family life Ron Penner, associate secretary. Board of Christian Education 3. Series: Helping hurting families Ron Hunsicker, Oaklawn Psychiatric Center, Elkhart, Indiana March 3-7, 1980

For information, write or phone to MENNONITE BRETHREN BIBLE COLLEGE 77 Henderson Highway Winnipeg, Manitoba R2L 1L1 (204) 667-9560 PAGE 13

Running Out Of Gas r- <

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Sowing the Seed A recent news item at our house brought a vivid recall of events that began several years ago. It started when we lived in the small German town of Schliengen, West Germany. My husband and I were at that time on a Christian Service assignment with the Janz Team. Feeling rather isolated and foreign in my new setting, I determined to make a conscious effort to be friendly and kind to my German neighbours. One day I noticed a neighbour lady, from across the hall in our apartment, had her arm all bandaged up. This injury turned out to be a good opportunity for me to show love and concern in a practical way. It was customary for the tenants to take monthly turns at cleaning the en­ trance and stairway of the building in which we lived. My offer to do her share of work was gratefully accepted. It wasn’t long before she started hand­ ing out candy bars to our children. There were other mutual gestures of friendship that resulted. With time my new friend also shared of her personal concerns and burdens with me. When the day came where we said goodbye at her door, there was another exchange. She gave me a flower vase and I left her with a German translation of the Four Spiritual Laws. The correspondence following our return to Canada was seldom and brief. In one letter, however, I asked her opinion of the booklet I had given her. I was delighted to receive a very positive reply, stating she had pursued it with great in­ terest. Throughout these past few years I

PAGE 14

i.-

I was Unaware that she was suffering from terminal cancer.

often thought I would like (and even made a few attempts) to purchase and send her a book that would help her get to know God. A few months later I actually did send her the German edition of “Peace with God” by Billy Graham. I was unaware that she was suffering from terminal cancer. I don’t know whether she ever made her peace with God by accepting Jesus as her personal Saviour, but I have the satisfaction of knowing that I had a part in sowing the seed. Kathy Friesen

“Mom, look at the gas gauge — it shows smpty,” exclaimed Mark, horrified and alarm­ ed as he was leaning over from the back. I was startled out of my reveries, stepped on the brakes on the middle of Main Street in Car­ man. This woke Mary-Ann who was sleeping beside me in the front. “Well, we have to look for a gas station,” I comforted our children. But where was one that was open at eleven o’clock at night? To make matters look worse it was raining steadi­ ly and the street lights glimmered on the wet windshield. How careless of me not to watch the gauge — as if the car would run forever without be­ ing “fed”! I knew we had a good car but it wasn’t that good. I tried one station after another but everyone was closed. With the flickering lights I couldn’t always make out whether there were lights or not. I tried the side streets only to be met with the same results: CLOSED. By now the children were getting thoroughfv alarmed. I heard Mark praying at the back and every time I stopped to investigate and would step out to make sure, he would lean over and turn off the car. I myself expected it to stall any minute. I walked to a nearby house in the rain to in­ quire where the owner of the pumps lived. Finally a tired looking lady emerged and when [ explained our plight and also mentioned that ve were enroute to Portage from Winkler, she asked, “Was there no gas available in Winkler?” After half an hour of fruitless search, we stopped on a big parking yard. The children asked, “What now?” “We’re going to pray,” I answered. “But God doesn’t almiys answer, does He?” “I believe He does, but maybe not always the way we want Him to — but He does answer.” We joined hands and I heard their earnest plea for help. “Dear Jesus, we need gas. Please give it to us ... ” And I joined by accepting the answer. “Thank you God for hearing us and for answering.” “Now let’s go to a home and ask for gas,” was Mark’s suggestion. I agreed, but decided to go right to the outskirts of town first. At the very end was another gas station. It probably would be closed too, we surmised. “It’s open,” shouted Mary-Ann. It was open. An attendant came out to oblige us. I couldn’t resist sharing with him how God had answered. He smiled and willingly accepted the book and tracts I offered him. Yes, God is interested in every minute detail of our lives, including an empty gas tank at 11 o’clock on a rain.v night.

Amie Klassen

THE MESSENGER

are from Menno Simons, the Reformation leader from whom Mennonites take their name. This booklet will help Mennonites and others appreciate the richness of the Anabaptist spiritual heritage. The selec­ tions highlight biblical truths that point the way to meaningful life today. J.C. Wenger is professor of Historical Theology in Goshen Biblical Seminary, a school of the Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminaries, Elkhart, Indiana. He has made a lifelong study of Anabaptism and has published numerous articles and books in the field.

Nine Booklet* Now Available in Mennonite Faith Series

Two New Booklets Encourage Appreciation for the Bible and for the Anabaptist Heritage

John C. Wenger, well-known Men­ nonite historian and theologian and member of the Committee on Bible Translation of the New International Ver­ sion (NIV) is author of the two latest booklets in the Mennonite Faith Series. According to Wenger, The Book We Call the Bible (Herald Press, 1980) was written "to enable the non-Christian to under­ stand what the Bible is all about." Simple and clear in language and style, this 80-page booklet presents with convic­ tion the eternal relevance and full authori­ ty of the Scriptures. A Faith to Live By (Herald Press, 1980), arranged in appropriate chapter groupings, contains about 125 key quotations from Anabaptist writers of the sixteenth century. The concise statements comment on self-understanding, becoming a Christian, the nature and ordinances of the church, love and nonresistance, Christian obedience, and Christ's return. About three-fourths of the quotations

FEBRUARY 15, 1980

Major emphases of the New Testament as understood in the AnabaptistMennonite tradition are presented In the Mennonite Faith Series, nine popularly written booklets of about 80 pages each. 1. How Mennonite* Came to Be sets forth a faith in Jesus Christ and His Word, born of intense suffering and persecution. 2. What Mennonite* Believe discusses points of agreement and difference with other Christians, emphasizing basic prin­ ciples tor Christian discipleship. 3. The Way to a New Life presents the plan of salvation and provides models for Christian living and for sharing the faith with others. 4. The Way of Peace discusses conflict and identifies Christ's love as the force that overcomes evil and enables His followers to love even their enemies. 5. Disciple* of Je*u* declares that com­ mitment to Christ requires following His example in a life of personal holiness and service to others. 6. The Way to True Riche*, by Milo Kauffman, shows how responsible Chris­ tian stewardship can unlock the door to a fuller life. 7. Teaching in the Congregation, by Paul M. Lederach, encourages churches to plan carefully for an adequate nurture ministry. 8. The Book We Call the Bible sum­ marizes the central message of the Bible. 9. A Faith to Live By contains brief quotations that highlight biblical truth as expressed by leading Anabaptists of the sixteenth century. Booklets 1 to 5 and 8 and 9 are written by J.C. Wenger, well-known Mennonite historican and theologian, and member of the Committee on Bible Translation of the New International Version. Commissioned by the Overseas office of the Mennonite Board of Missions, the Mennonite Faith Series booklets are designed to help bridge the gap between scholarly Mennonite writing and nonMennonite literature that emphasizes salvation but often neglects discipleship. The Mennonite Faith Series is published by Herald Press. Scottdale, Pennsylvania, and Kitchener. Ontario, at 95 cents per booklet ($1.10 in Canada). The above book* are available through your EMC Conference office. Write: EMC Publication*, Box 1268, Steinbach, Man. ROA 2A0.

Manitoba Choice Resources Celebrates 10th Anniversary

MANITOBA CHOICE Resources (books) celebrated its 10th anniversary in 1979. Since the small beginning in the basement of Henry and Luella Klassen and Fred and Tina Hamm, Winkler, ap­ proximately 350,000 books have been bought by the public through the Choice program. It is estimated that a good book has four readers. One report showed how a book had blessed three homes and led the fourth reader to Christ. A good book lives on - it’s not uncommon to receive response from a reader of a certain book, years after it was marketed. Choice books ministry had a good year in 1979. A record number of books were purchased by the public; (approximately $100,000 retail) representing 38% increase over the previous year. A modest budget of $28,500.00 enabled Choice to operate. Of this $14,000.00 come from operational earnings, $13,800.00 in donations, for budget and books to in­ stitutions. The operating budget covers cost of voluntary-service arrangement with M.C.C. for personnel, house and office rent, utilities, business tax, van operation, and upkeep, supplies, tele­ phone, freight and postage, promotion, printing and numerous other related operating costs.

Penner Interview cont’d their personal belongings there and they really settle into their homes, ac­ cumulating just as much “junk” as we do. Also at the base community I saw how easy it was to settle into the routines there and just be comfortable with the other Christians and not have any worthwhile contacts with non-Christians. Q: What personal value did you receive from your summer of service? A: The Lord began teaching me some very important lessons, one being that I cannot run away from myself. When I got to Peru my surroundings were very different and yet I was the same person with the same feelings and attitudes which I had in Manitoba. Thus I found that changing my environment did not automatically change anything within me. Another lesson had to do with the fact that the difficulties which the Lord allows to confront us are there to be fac­ ed and dealt with for spiritual growth. Perhaps the most significant lesson which I started to learn is the truth of II Corinthians 12:9, that God really is suf­ ficient for every circumstances no matter how difficult. ■

PAGE 15

Around The World ■ THE ENERGY-EFFICIENT Church: How to Save Energy (and money) in Your Church was prepared by Total Environment Action, Inc., Douglas R. Hoffman, editor. This 86-page paperback provides concise, practical advice on a variety of measures to save energy and money in your church and parsonage, in­ cluding extensive descriptions of insulation, heating zones, conservation plans, and a bibliography of how-to books. $4.95. If you can't find it through your local bookstore, write to The Pilgrim Press, 287 Park Ave. S., New York, NY 10010. ■ CAROL ERB, a Canadian Mennonite worker in Afghanistan, is reportedly safe after the Soviet military invasion of that country. "We wonder what the future holds for us and our projects," the Zurich, Ont., native wrote. "Pray with us that the Lord's will may be done." An overseas mission associate with Mennonite Board of Missions, Carol is a secretary at a mission-operated hospital. ■ ART JANZ, Ben Eidse and Weva Kabule Wetu represented AIMM at Urbana '79, the triennial missions conference of Inter-Varsity Christian Fellowship held December 27-31 at Urbana, Illinois. During an evening session, a multi-media presentation on "partnership" praised Mennonites who have been willing to provide resources and persons to work with churches "which are not Mennonite." This statement undoubtedly was made with reference to the pioneering work of Men­ nonites with AIC's in Africa. This of course in­ cludes AIMM's direct involvement in a Bible teaching ministry among Africa Independent Churches in Botswana and Lesotho.

■ THE RUSSIAN Orthodox Church receiv­ ed permission to print 50,000 Bibles and these were distributed in 1979. The All Union Coun­ cil of Evangelical Christians-Baptists in Moscow has received permission to print 25,000 Russian Bibles for the Evangelical Baptist Churches in the Soviet Union. These will be printed in Leningrad. These Bibles are in addi­ tion to the 25,000 Bibles the Bible Society was able to ship into Russia in 1979. There is a great shortage of Scriptures in Russia where the evangelical community numbers some 3 million souls. ■ THERE ARE MORE than 1500 languages in Africa; if one were to count all the dialects the number would be many more. In Nigeria alone there are more than 300 languages, and in Zaire around 200.

PAGE 16

THE MESSENGER

At the present time, about 225 languages in Africa have full New Testaments or Bibles; 480 languages have some portion of Scrip­ ture available. Of these 225 languages that have New Testaments or Bibles, the Bible Society is currently working on 65 new translations into idiomatic, common language. There are 255 on-going translation projects into languages receiving the Scriptures for the first time. Many of these already have publish­ ed portions available for use in the churches and for evangelism. The Bible Society is currently working with 250 African translation projects; 65 new translations (as indicated above) into languages that already have Scriptures available, and 185 first translations for languages that have never had complete Testaments or Bibles. ■ WHEN THE clean-up operations have been completed following a disaster, it is usually a time for reflection on how various groups responded in time of need. Men­ nonite Disaster Service in Canada received a letter from the city manager of Wichita Falls, Texas, on January 15, 1980, expressing thanks for the Mennonite assistance. Thile text follows: It is now over nine months since the April 10th tornado which devastated a large portion of Wichita Falls. With nearly 50 deaths, hun­ dreds of injuries, nearly 5,000 living units and businesses heavily damaged and hundreds of millions of dollars in property damage, this city was dealt a heavy blow last spring. During the past nine months, though, this city and its citizens have made remarkable progress toward full recovery - physically, economical­ ly and emotionally. This traumatic recovery process was greatly aided by many individuals and organizations from throughout Texas, this region and the country. Especially prominent in the recovery process was the volunteer manpower and materials supplied by many church groups to many tornado victims in their rebuilding ef­ forts. Your church and its members were a part of this humanitarian effort. Please accept this letter, therefore, as a token of our sincere appreciation for the Christian effort extended to us. . . ■ THE NUMBER of volunteers in the Cana­ dian Voluntary Service Program is down from 1978, while at the same time the service op­ portunities are increasing. These were the opening words of Dave Dyck, director of V.S., reporting to the MCC (Canada) Annual Meeting in Vineland, Ontario. From a high of 87 volunteers in the Canadian program two

years ago, the total has dropped to 63 in 1979. "To meet the requests for personnel in 1980," Dyck says, "we will need to recruit about 45 persons for the various projects in Canada." The area of V.S. expansion include projects in the Atlantic provinces, a youth ministry in Makkovick, Labrador, a public education program in St. John's, Newfoundland in rela­ tion to mental retardation, and assistance in the Mennonite Church in Sussex, New Brunswick in the establishment of a group home for the mentally retarded. A potential student ministry in conjunction with I.V.C.F. is being explored for the Truro/Dartmouth area.

■ DURING THE current academic year Canadian Mennonite Bible College students will visit about fifty congregations in Canada and the United States. Every year church visitation is an integral part of the College's activity. It serves not only to strengthen the ties between the College and its supporting church groups but it provides an informal educational function for the students. The first major tour takes place February 712 when the CMBC Ensemble, a group of twelve students under the direction of faculty members Henriette Cornies and John Friesen, plans to visit nine churches and two schools in the Rosthern area of Saskatchewan. ■ THE THIRD STORY, a TV series for older children featuring parables, Bible stories, songs and cartoons has been aired on numerous stations in Canada. It is now run­ ning in the United States as a part of the Mon­ day night schedule of the Christian Broad­ casting Network. CBN has about 1100 cable stations in its satellite hookup. The thirteenweek series of The Third Story is being run free of air time costs. It is a production of Mennonite Brethren Communications of Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Youth Pastor Wanted A youth pastor is needed to work full time with teens and children in the core area of Winnipeg. Applicants should preferably have some ex­ perience in this type of work. Position available as negotiated. For further in­ formation contact: Pastor Pete Peters 155 Essar Ave. Winnipeg, Man. R2G 0S6 Phone: 339-2301