The Messenger July 17, 1981

The Messenger EVANGELICAL MENNONITE EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENGE CONFERENCE

1981 Annual Convention Issue

VOL. VOL. 19 19 NO. NO. 15 15 V^ULY JULY 17/8 17/81’

Conference Council convened on Saturday, July 4, In the chapel of the Steinbach Bible College.

1981 Conference Council Meeting

which had already transpired. • Writers' Conference • A meeting where the matter of private SOCIAL CONCERNS COMMITTEE: schools was taken up Stanford Penner reported. The committee • A youth page was incorporated in THE has met five times. They hope to publish MESSENGER. some material on peace and labour manage­ • A team ministry to conduct family life ment relations. seminars was announced. The report further revealed that a person YOUTH COMMITTEE: Chairman Gordon had been engaged for the summer months to Schellenberg was quite enthused about the work with EMC Archives. The anticipated Friday night Youth Celebration ’81 held second man to work in the field of Christian after the regular convention session. Atten- education, family seminars, etc., has not yet dance had been around the one hundred been hired. mark. He felt it had been a real success. One of the questions arising from the One question had to do with the regional report was the underspending on some 1980 youth meetings. Were they thinking of this? budget items. One major item concerned the One had taken place at Swift Current. porojected salary for another man; this was only disbursed in part because the project THE BOARD OF EDUCATION AND did not materialize. One of the other items, PUBLICATION report by Harvey Plett, Teaching Aids, did not get off the ground by chairman of the Board, revealed a number of the time the year ended, resulting in a 94.2% projections which had been made at the variance. 1980 Conference Council meeting, some of

by Dave Schellenberg 1981 Conference Council sessions opened with some hearty singing led by Harry Neufeld, Steinbach. Close to 200 people were in attendance. Moderator Edwin Plett extended a very warm welcome to the assembled Council members. To his request for all first-timers to stand, there were some 19 standing. One of the first items of business already generated a few questions. Art Schwarz, speaking on behalf of the Nominating Com­ mittee, announced that they were proposing the nomination of two additional candidates to the Board of Missions' slate. The question concerned one of authority dropping the names of some candidates and adding others. How would the home church of those eliminated feel about this? In this case it concerned the Board of Missions where two names had been added due to the fact that one withdrew his candidacy.

Sid Reimer (left) gave the Estates Committee report at the Conference Council meeting.

Counting ballots at Conference Council meeting.

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Children’s session at annual convention. Mervin Friesen with guitar.

One person queried why the Church Membership Handbook was no longer available. Another wondered if the Resource Library was being used. ESTATES COMMITTEE: The Estates Committee had had ten meetings during the year. The report showed that they had published a handbook and also printed several articles in THE MESSENGER regarding wills and estate planning. The matter of establishing a Public Foun­ dation took much of their time. They recommended that the EMC should not form their own Foundation but become a working and participating member of the Mennonite Foundation of Canada. Their possible projections include Regional Seminars, a study of the purpose of the Estates Committee, and a Mennonite Cemetery in the Winnipeg area. BOARD OF FINANCE: Henry Friesen, a member of this Board, reported, using an overhead projector to explain the financial statement. “We are thankful that the joint efforts of all the members of our Conference enabled us to meet actual disbursements in 1980. Although receipts were $28,504 less than budgeted, expenses were also less than pro­ jected.” The report also contained this challenge, “We want to encourage each church to make the program of their Conference their own, rather than viewing the larger body as a separate entity. We believe that this ap­ proach would ensure that the Conference budget does not simply become a financial burden for each church, but that individual members within each congregation will view the Conference program as an opportunity for them to become involved in the effective and efficient administration of a larger out­ reach.”

JULY 17, 1981

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Mbonza Kikunga and wife Dimuka Ana of Zaire sang a duet at annual convention.

One question concerned the method of levying churches. What guidelines does the Board of Finance have? The figure for this year comes to $19.20 per member per month. “If all our members gave $19.20 our problems would be solved,” said Brother Friesen in reply. A brother wondered if our recent church building activities (“expensive churches”) had any bearing on missions giving. “If this is the case maybe we should build simpler,” he said. Apparent lack of communication was given as another possible reason for shortage of funds. A pastor from one of the smaller churches unburdened himself on the difficulties the small church has in meeting its Conference commitments after paying the pastor and keeping up the church and pastor’s residence.

MINISTERIAL EXAMINATION AND PLACEMENT COMMITTEE: Arden Thiessen gave the report. Mr. Thiessen said that seven candidates had been interviewed, some for ordination as ministers and some for deacons. One church (Arden, Man.) is still in need of a pastor. It is being served on Sundays by visiting ministers. This does not seem ade­ quate. What is needed is a minister to move into the area, take up employment, and work with the church. “Do we have someone in our churches who could fill this need and would be willing to respond to this challenge?” Two churches have expressed interest in having a minister in training.

doing this we decided it was necessary to develop a clear statement of our philosophy of music. This is no easy or quick task and so we are still in the process of clarifying and unifying our opinions on many basic questions. We expect to make public the out­ come of these discussions and trust it will enable us to identify our role and purpose as a committee.” This committee also plans the music for the annual convention.

EDEN MENTAL HEALTH CENTER: The Conference has three members on the Board of this Center. Mr. Gerry Doerksen, one of these members, reported. EMHC is the only Mennonite Mental Health Center in Canada. There are five in the United States. The majority of the funding (at present some $1,300,000 a year) is by the Manitoba

Making a joyful noise!

MUSIC COMMITTEE: Don Thiessen reported for this committee. The report stated that this committee is in the process of examining its role as a committee of the Conference. In part it reads as follows; “The Conference has changed considerably in the last ten years but the role of the music com­ mittee has not been evaluated or changed. In PAGE 3

requests. The project has also opened avenues of Christian witness. A question was posed concerning the locus of authority in the MCC set-up, “Does the staff lead MCC or does the Board lead MCC?”

The ladies from the Evangelical Fellowship Church in Steinbach served the noon iunch at the Conference Council meeting. Government. The Center is also in the process of establishing a Charitable Founda­ tion. This would pay for things not paid by the Manitoba Government. For instance, an extension of pastoral care would need Foun­ dation money. The report also explained that referrals for hospitalization and for consultation with a psychiafrist are made via the family doctor. Appointments for counselling from a staff psychologist, pastor or social worker may be made directly by calling the Center. Staff members are also willing to conduct workshops and seminars in churches. They are also working on changing the image of mental illness, depression, etc. “Who appoints the psychologist and psy­ chiatrist?" was one of the questions tendered to Mr. Doerksen. He replied that the Board was responsible to appoint the head of each department.

MCC (MANITOBA): Willie Dueck gave the report. In part the report read as follows: “MCC (Manitoba), the servant of the eight Mennonite Conferences that comprise it, seeks to be faithful to the commission. Thirty-eight Voluntary Service workers and six SALTers in Manitoba seek to give ex­ pression to that, reminding all of us ■ the 23,000 Mennonites in Manitoba - that that remains our commission as well. The V'olunlary Service program involves nursing, Christian literature distribution, day care staff, juvenile detention service, secretarial work, core area concerns, and native ministries. This summer about 16 gardeners are involved with native communities. Another major Manitoban program involves Offender Ministries where friendships and Bible studies with prisoners are sponsored (Open Circle), an alternative to prison is offered (Grosvenor Place), and victims’ needs are taken seriously (Mediation Ser­ vices), The Self-Help Crafts program sells the products of craftspeople in whose com­ munities MCC has other programs (health, agriculture) to increase self-sufficiency; the 13 Community Self Help Centers recycle used articles. All these programs involve volunteers giving their time and energies to make possible a total ministry of recon­ ciliation." One questioner felt that the figure of 23,000 Mennonites in Manitoba was out of PAGE 4

line; he thought there were many more. Some felt MCC was going beyond its mandate when working with environmental issues. MCC (CANADA): Menno Kroeker gave the report. Present also at the Council meeting was Eric Rempel of MCC (Canada). The report stated that 1980 saw an in­ crease in Voluntary Service workers in Canada from 63 to 85. An evaluation of the overall operation of the Food Bank was completed and as a result it was agreed to continue its operation for another five year period. William Janzen of the Ottawa office prepared a brief related to freedom of religious and conscientious objection which was presented to the Special Joint Com­ mittee of Parliament on the Constitution. During 1980 225 personnel applications were received. The EMC showed a decrease in people applying for service. The Mennonitische Post is experiencing continued growth with 5500 subscribers. A book ministry has also been begun. The 1981 budget is $9,000,000. Con­ tributions from the EMC in 1980 were slight­ ly below the previous year. Questions were raised regarding MCC af­ filiation with groups such as the Wider Ecumenical Council. MCC is there only in “observer status,” Council was told. Some felt uncomfortable with MCC sometimes ac­ ting as spokesman for all Mennonite groups. The long-term benefit of native gardening projects was questioned. It was indicated that response to this though was fairly positive. Staff placement is in response to

MENNONITE DISASTER SERVICE: In the absence of Syd Reimer, the report was delivered by Joan Barkman, a former staff member of MDS in Akron, Pennsylvania. MDS is divided into five regions in the USA and Canada. There are now 61 organ­ ized units with more than 2900 congrega­ tions. Their yearly average provides 50,000 person-days of help. The paramount purpose of MDS, accor­ ding to the report, is to bring the greatest potential resource for aid, in the name of Christ, to stricken individuals, families and communities. At present MDS is working with disasters in some 18 states.

STEINBACH BIBLE COLLEGE: James Penner, chairman of the Board, reported. Mr. Penner prefaced his report with the following brief introduction: “The Board of Directors of the Steinbach Bible College has been busy. We have wrestled with some very weighty and important issues. During our symposium in February, several recurring themes surfaced. The need for a stronger missions department has been voiced. The Board is projecting the hiring of a full-time missions instructor for the school year 198283. “Finances have been very tight. Several times the members of the Board of Directors have had to make personal contact to help alleviate the shortage. In the future we will need donations not simply to exist as a college, but rather, donations which allow us to flourish as a college. “The training of students in a strong Biblical base is why the school exists. For this reason, we, the Board of Directors, are making a special plea to our constituent groups for your students. Ministers, pastors, parents, youth leaders and young people, we encourage you to consider Steinbach Bible College. After all, this is your school. “Thank you for your financial and prayer support.”

Freedom Quartet from Steinbach performing at the 1981 annual convention.

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The College dean’s report showed that there were 63 full-time day students and 16 part-time in Semester 1. Semester II showed 65 full-time day students and 18 part-time. There was a total of 24 graduates: two Bachelor of Theology, 12 Bachelor of Religious Education, three Diploma in Church Music, and seven Diploma in Biblical studies. For next year there will be a need for a two-hour missions course. The report of the business manager show­ ed that the school ended with a substantial deficit. Existing facilities have been upgrad­ ed. A bungalow was constructed to provide needed classroom space. Some much needed landscaping has taken place. The Public Relations report showed that 49 churches and youth groups had been visited by music teams. The College Chorale made a tour to all four western provinces. Other groups made other tours. Up to 400 people attended the coffee house at the youth conference. The Servant has been enlarged to eight pages and includes a separate sec­ tion on the alumni. The High School Department report showed 116 enrolled in the first semester and 113 enrolled in the second sememster. There were eight Hong Kong students. A spiritual emphasis in the High School Department is obtained through chapel, special conferences and Bible classes. Student Services has seen the addition of one staff member, Fran Harms. The resident assistance program is looking back to its se­ cond completed year. This program has given students an opportunity to develop their leadership abilities. If any one subject predominated in the question period it could well have been the matter of a stronger Missions Department in the SBC. Plans are to hire a person in 1982. Another questioner wondered if there were plans to enhance Anabaptist doctrines. To the question. Who runs the school? the speaker replied that ultimately it is the con­ stituency that runs the school. Mr. Harvey Plett is resigning the presiden­ cy as of June 1982. After a year of sab­ batical he expects to come back to teach. It was moved and seconded to give Mr. Plett a vote of thanks for his services.

CONFERENCE EXECUTIVE REPORT: Edwin Plett gave the report. All elections for the General Board have been made. This 15-member Board will begin to function right after the 1981 annual convention. Conference ministerial meetings have been characterized by devoting part of the day to study sessions. The hiring of a Conference pastor has not yet materialized. New target date is 1982. The Peardonville Fellowship Chapel clos-

Mbonza Kikunga briefly addressed the annual convention on Sunday afternoon. Art Janz from Africa Inter Mennonite Mission, Elkhart, Indiana, interpreted. Greetings from Zaire It was a privilege to have with us for Sunday afternoon the president of the Zaire (Africa) Mennonite Church, Mbonza Kikunga and his wife, Dimuka Ana, and Mr. and Mrs. Art Janz who interpreted for them. Dimuka Ana spoke at the ladies' session on Saturday while Mbonza ad­ dressed the convention on Sunday afternoon. The Zaire Mennonite Church has some 40,000 members. "This is the fruit of your work," said Mbonza, "and in the name of those 40,000 members I want to greet you with very, very warm greetings, and in the name of those 40,000 members I continue to thank you for everything you have done for Zaire." "We address ourselves to you today as your children in Jesus Christ," he continued. In mentioning the Ben Eidses (long-time missionaries in Zaire) he said, "They have become to us as parents, brothers and sisters, and have become to us very, very dear friends." ed its doors after about 12 years of existence. The last service was held March 1, 1981. A Conference logo has been accepted. A ministerial retreat was held at Camp Arnes in June.

HOSTING THE I990 MENNONITE WORLD CONFERENCE: The General Conference of Mennonites of Manitoba has initiated a move to host the 1990 Mennonite World Conference in Manitoba and is asking for support from other Mennonite groups. The Conference Council gave ap­ proval to the proposal. NOMINATING COMMITTEE PROPOSAL: The proposal consisted of limiting Board and Committee members to two consecutive terms with a year out before they could be re-elected. Comments on this brought out both pros and cons. The matter was tabled.

CONSTITUTIONAL REVISION: It was drawn to our attention that there was a dis­ crepancy in our present Constitution. It was moved and seconded that we delete No. 12 Problems Committee from our Constitution. The reason for this is that it is similar to the statement in No. 2 on page 25. The difference is that in No. 12 the ministerial council appoints the committee and in No. 2 the General Board does it. ESTATES COMMITTEE PROPOSAL: “The Estates Committee has been investigating the possibility of establishing our own founda­ tion. They have also investigated several ex­ isting foundations and now recommend that the E.M. Conference become a working and participating member of the Mennonite Foundation of Canada subject to the following: 1) Legal council to be approached and requested to fully investigate legal

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 Mall, Registration Number 0591. Undeliverable copies, change of address and new subscriptions should be mailed to the above address.

JULY 17, 1981

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Peter Dueck led the annual convention song services. ramifications; to approach and negotiate with the MFC and their legal council for ap­ propriate identification of membership in the Mennonite Foundation of Canada. 2) Final report for approval to the EMC Council - December 1981. 3) Membership commencing April 1982.”

BOARD OF MISSIONS: Henry Klassen gave the report. Expansion in Canada is being worked on. Among the places mentioned were southern Ontario, Edmonton, Grande Prairie and Saskatoon. Following are some brief excerpts and comments from his report: “It is encouraging to see the national EMC church in Mexico maturing and grow­ ing in number. This past year approximately fifty persons were baptized. One new church emerged as a result of the involvement of a national evangelist.” The Nicaraguan church has experienced growth. The Managua church, which was built ten years ago, has outgrown its facilities. A national committee has taken on the responsibility of supervising the bookstore. Two main areas of work in Paraguay are the Chaco and East Paraguay. They minister to Indians, Paraguayans and in East Paraguay also to Germans. Radio ZP-30 in the Chaco is being expanded. Nurses are supplied to the clinic in La Esperanza. Board representatives plan to visit Ger­ many in early September to deal with certain business aspects. The report showed that there are 132 per­ sons on the support roster of the EMC Board of Missions. Twelve persons were accepted during the period July 1980 to June 1981. During the past year the Board has met nine times for full-day business meetings. One of the bigger projects of the MA was the purchase of land in East Paraguay for In­ dian settlement ($50,000). The Board of Missions is also supporting personnel serving with 16 different mission organizations. This operation goes by the name of Associate Missions. Two mission organizastions which would come under this category were evaluated but not approved because their stated purpose

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did not include evangelism and church plan­ ting as a primary goal. Items discussed had to do with medical coverage and furlough/vacation policy. A question which surfaced was whether we could not relax our requirements for accep­ tance of applicants. One church had had two couples for whom there was nothing available. Another suggestion had to do with inviting nationals to the convention to which the answer was that it was being worked on. One delegate was in favour of setting up a boot camp. Another concern was that some workers in Associate Missions had had their support dropped. This concerned those workers in administration. A discussion followed regar­ ding the wisdom of this policy adopted two years ago. No change was made. In the face of the need, how can we get more volunteers? Various brethren had suggestions: • Pay more frequent visits to the SBC. • The church should supply info to homes. • Maybe we should spend more time in prayer. Medical Coverage - “Most seem to feel that if major medical expenses are incurred, special offerings should be taken.” Missionary Vacation - “In general, single people serve shorter terms than their married counterparts. At present the Board does not encourage people to come home during their term for an event like a wedding. Though some expressed flexibility, there appeared to be general support to retain the policy.” Allowance Structure - “Currently the sup­ port base for our foreign missionaries is still below the Canadian base. Several felt that the Board should work (3-5 years) at making the two comparable.” NEW CHURCHES: There were no new churches for acceptance at the 1981 Confer­ ence Council meeting. 1981 Conference Council sessions closed with the singing of “Blest Be the Tie That Binds."

STANDING OF BOARDS AND COMMITTEES Standing of Boards and Committees following annual convention: BOARD OF MISSIONS: Andrew Dueck, Mennville (84); John P. Loewen, Blumenort (84); George Rempel, Wymark (84); Harvey Barkman, Prairie Grove (83); Henry Harms, Roseisle (83); Alfred Friesen, Rosenort Fellowship (83); Harry Neufeld, Steinbach (82) ; Bill Friesen, Pleasant Valley (82); Ed Kroeker, Rosenort (82). BOARD OF EDUCATION AND PUBLICATION: Jake K. Friesen, Stratton (84); Ernie Siemens, Morris (84); Gilbert Unger, Ridgewood (84); Melvin Toews, Steinbach (84); Fred Klassen, Blumenort (83) ; Ed Reimer, Fort Garry (83); Ron Dueck, Kleefeld (83); John Kehler, Wymark

(82); Harvey Plett, Prairie Rose (82) BOARD OF FINANCE: Ed L. Friesen, Rosenort (84); John Olfert, Braeside (84); Lloyd Dueck, Steinbach (83); Henry Friesen, Aberdeen (83); Norman Kroeker, Prairie Rose (82) MUSIC COMMITTEE: Lome Kornelsen, Rosenort (84), Ray Plett, Crestview (84); Walter Plett, Prairie Rose (84); LeeRoy Bartel, Kleefeld (83); Don Thiessen, Ridgewood (83); Ernie Klassen, Steinbach (82) ; John Doerksen, Blumenort (82) SOCIAL CONCERNS COMMITTEE: Harry Friesen, Mennville (84); Henry Hiebert, Steinbach (84); Frank Goertzen, Treesbank (83); Stanford Penner, Prairie Rose (83); Mervyn Abrahamson, Pelly (82) YOUTH COMMITTEE: Sheldon Giesbrecht, MacGregor (84); Ron Plett, Prairie Rose (84); Jim Harms, Steinbach (83) ; Ron Olfert, Wymark (83); Gordon Schellenberg, Kleefeld (82) ESTATES COMMITTEE: Dick Eidse, Rosenort (84); Lloyd Plett, Prairie Rose (84) ; Dave Loewen, Blumenort (83); Harry Fast, Braeside (83); Sid Reimer, Fort Garry (82) STEINBACH BIBLE COLLEGE BOARD: Frank K. Friesen, Pleasant Valley (84); Peter K. Friesen, Fisher Branch (84); Erwin Kroeker, Braeside (84); Norman Bartel, Kleefeld (83); Ed Wiebe, Treesbank (83); Ron Penner, Prairie Rose (83); Allan Friesen, Fort Garry (82); Abe G. Penner, Blumenort (82); Henry Klassen, Steinbach (82); James Penner, Kola (82) MCC (MANITOBA); Bert Kornelsen, Pleasant Valley (84); Leonard Dueck, Menn­ ville (83); Tim Kroeker, Prairie Rose (82); Willie Dueck, Morweena (82) MCC (CANADA): Menno Kroeker, Rosenort (84) MENNONITE DISASTER SERVICE: Art Cornelsen, Rosenort Fellowship (84); Henry R. Plett, Prairie Rose (83); Sydney Reimer, Rosenort Fellowship (82) EDEN MENTAL HEALTH CENTER: Gerry Doerksen, Blumenort (84); Albert Friesen, Kleefeld (83); Neil Wiebe, Steinbach (82) MODERATOR: Edwin Plett, Prairie Rose (82) VICE MODERATOR: Henry Kornelsen, Ridgewood (82) NOMINATING COMMITTEE: Jake Cornelsen, Pleasant Valley (84); Raymond Dueck, Mennville (84); Henry Fast, Stein­ bach (84); Benny Friesen, Rosenort (84); Leonard Barkman, Pansy (83); Allan Dueck, Braeside (83); David J. Reimer, Blumenort (83); Peter Doerksen, Fort Garry (82) ; Dennis Thiessen, Endeavour (82); An­ drew Friesen, Kola (82); Dan Warkentin, Prairie Rose (82) MINISTERIAL EXAMINATION AND PLACEMENT COMMITTEE: Ben Friesen, Crestview (84); Menno R. Kroeker, MacGregor (84); Andrew Dueck, Mennville (83) ; Arden Thiessen, Blumenort (83); Frank Friesen, Pleasant Valley (82)

THE MESSENGER

4 The ladies had their own meeting on Saturday afternoon in the Steinbach E.M. Church.

EMC Ladies’ Service (Convention) The ladies attending the special service on Saturday, July 4, enjoyed a variety of per­ sons. A ladies’ trio and mother-daughter duet provided extra special music and the two speakers gave the audience a bilingual treat. “I’m on my way to Brussels, Lord, and I expect you to meet me there!’’ Dimuka Ana, wife of the newly-elected President of the Zaire Mennonite Church (AlMM), gave a brief testimony in French. Her interpreter. Martini Janz, from the AIMM head office, helped complete any gap in communication. Dimuka told her audience a bit about her journey to North America as well as her misgivings about travelling so far alone. That was when she told the Lord He would certainly have to meet her in Brussels to help her make the right connections to New York. “This is the second time I’ve spoken to a group in English ...” Mrs. Elizabeth (Levi) Reimer told her audience that this would be the second time

Elizabeth Reimer, Edmonton, Alta., she spoke before a group in English and “I spoke at the ladies’ session at the annual hope 1 make it!” she added. convention. This delightful lady was introduced by Mrs. Karen Kopp who gave a brief background about Tanle Elizabeth, as she is known to so many. COVER PHOTOS: Top: The Saturday Elizabeth and her husband have been ser­ night session featured a Song Festival. The ving the Lord in Germany since 1953. They floral arrangements and banner were an add­ founded the Bad Gandersheim home for ed touch at the 1981 convention. children (Missions Kinderdorf) in 1960. Bottom photo: Main speaker Victor Together with a group of German believers, Adrian, from Ontario Bible College, Toron­ they also formed Freies Evangelisches to, Ontario. Missionswerk (FEM), a registered mission board in West Germany. They have been in­ volved with church planting, DVBS, street meetings, summer camp ministries as well as providing counselling and friendship to those who need an understanding Christian. Mrs. Reimer’s message continued with the convention theme, “Knowing and Seeking God.” It was evident that she was very well qualified to share on this topic. S. Barkman

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Dimuka Ana Kikunga, Zaire (center). Martini Janz (right) interpreted when Dimuka spoke. (Person on left not identified.)

JULY 17, 1981

Helen Kornelsen has returned to Belize for another term of service. She’will be teaching at King’s College and administrating the primary school.

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Missionary Presentation

have a Conference such as ours to stand behind us. The Lord bless you.”

Thirty-six persons took part in the Missionary Presentation at the annual con­ vention on Sunday afternoon. Some of these were recent arrivals; others were preparing to return to the field. They were presented by Henry Klassen, executive secretary, EMC Board of Missions. Here they are: IFaller and Margaret Reimer: “...in Paraguayan church planting and field ad­ ministration. We recently came on furlough.”

Elvira and Elmer IVarkentin: “...just com­ pleting a one-year furlough. Hoping to go back in August to teach Bible in a govern­ ment teachers’ college in Nigeria.”

Peter and Sally Dueck: “Missionaries in the German-speaking part of Europe with the Janz Team Ambassadors...hoping to return on August 10. Pray for us, please.” Helen and Lome Kroeker: “We’re plan­ ning to leave for Pakistan August 15. We’ll be houseparents at Murree Christian School.”

Doris Friesen: “...involved in medical work in Nicaragua and home for a fourmonth furlough.”

Helen Kornelsen: “...serving with the GMU in Belize and involved in education...plan to return this week.”

Albert and Edna Martens (Germany) at the missionary presentation at annual convention.

Mexico. I'm involved with church planting, children's and ladies' work.” Katherine Penner: “I'm teaching in Belize at King's College, a school for nationals. I’m home for July and August and plan to return for the next school year.” Flo Friesen: “I've been in Shell, Ecuador, working with World Radio Missionary Fellowship. I teach missionary children. I’ve just been home on a six-month medical leave and furlough. I'm looking forward to going back in two weeks. I'll be working again with teaching missionary children and Christian Education in the local church.” Phyllis Penner: “I’ve just come home from Venezuela. I was involved in various types of work, such as Christian education.”

Lome and Helen Kroeker, candidates for Pakistan, at missionary presentation. Pat Kroeker: “...teaching missionary children in Tokyo, Japan, under Japan Evangelical Mission and hope to go back in August.”

Paul and Lois Thiessen: “We’re involved in Indian ministry in Kamsack, Saskatchewan.” Linda Penner: “I'm excited about retur­ ning to Paraguay on July 21...involved in nursing at La Esperanza.” Erma Kroeker: “Planning to begin teaching at Black Forest Academy in Ger­ many in September.”

Edna and Albert Martens: “We’re plan­ ning to go back to Black Forest Academy, the Janz Team mission school, in September, serving as business administrator.” Len and Faye Barkman: “We’re serving in administration and teaching at King’s College in Belize with Gospel Missionary Union. We're home for a summer furlough.”

Doris Thiessen: “El Paso, Texas. I work on both sides of the US/Mexico border, mainly with Bible studies and visitation.”

Frank and Mary Braun: “We work in Kamsack among the Indian people...in­ volved in church planting. We’re so glad to

Pete and Elma Reimer: “We just came back from Tres Palmas, East Paraguay. We were pastoring in the German Mennonite church and preparing radio programs.”

Mary Brandl: “I serve with Youth for Christ, Germany. I work there as a housekeeper or hostess and I want to pass on Christian greetings of love from my co­ workers. I plan to fly back, the Lord willing, on July 24." Garry and Sharon Kornelsen: “...just finished a short term in the Bahamas...village outreach, dorm supervisor, and some teaching.” Doreen and John Peters with John Paul: “We're with the Janz Team in Germany in Bible school teaching, especially Christian Education. Involved also...with the Black Forest Academy, Europe's school for mis­ sionary children. We're here on a mini­ furlough, and thank you for your prayers and concern for the work there.”

Judy and Ron GoerZzen.’” We’ve just com­ pleted a two-year assignment with GMU at Windermere High School in the Bahamas...planning on attending seminary in Fresno, California this fall.”

Mission Grams The EMC Board of Missions • Andrew Dueck of the Mennville EMC was elected to the Board at the annual con­ vention. He replaces Henry P. Dyck who has served on this Board from 1964-1967 and again from 1974-1981, a total of ten years. • Other Board members Harry Neufeld (Steinbach) - 1959-1966, 1976-present John P. Loewen (Blumenort) - 1959-present Bill Friesen (Pleasant Valley) - 1972-1975, 1979-present George Rempel (Wymark) - 1975-present Harvey Barkman (Prairie Grove) - 1976-1979, 1980-present Henry Harms (Roseisle) - 1972-present Fred Friesen (Rosenort Fellowship) - 1977-present Ed Kroeker (Rosenort) - 1979-present The Board meets nine times a year for full-day business meetings. Each member is expected to be present at every meeting. • Organization • Harry Neufeld was re-elected as chairman of the Board, John P. Loewen as vicechairman, and Bill Friesen as the third member of the Board Executive. Seventeen missionaries reported to the Board on July 6 during the evening session held at the Steinbach Evangelical Fellowship Church. All were missionaries who had recently returned from a term of service. Pat Kroeker was given an extension to her two-year assignment of teaching at Japan Christian Academy.

Catherine Thiessen: “Chihuahua City, PAGE 8

THE MESSENGER

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The Vanderhoof Band and Choir leaving on tour

NEW RELATIONSHIPS BUILT Vanderhoof, B.C.: A highlight for our church band was a trip from our province all the way to Manitoba, serving with music in churches and schools. The following report on the band tour was submitted by LaVerne Yoder: In spite of softly blowing snow, band in­ struments, suitcases, uniforms, boxes of oranges and apples, and miscellaneous bulg­ ing bags were loaded onto the chartered bus. Even at 4:20 a.m. forty-nine passengers were wide awake as the bus pulled away from the EMC Church in Vanderhoof, B.C. We were off on an adventure of serving, being served and developing relationships. We served through music, presented by band, choir and small groups. From Alberta to Manitoba we shared our music in churches, a high school, a theatre, a Bible college auditorium, and lastly in a Ukrainian hall. There the triumphal sound of “A Mighty Fortress is Our God” resounded for

the last time. For the last time we folded music stands, put music folders together, dried our instruments and put them in their cases. How beautifully we were served! There were dinners at the churches, including tasty borscht, a banquet-like ham dinner complete with cut flowers, chicken and barbecued hamburger. There were lunches at two Bible colleges and evening snacks as we visited in homes. Our hosts provided taxi service, and on the bus came the time to look into our “surprise packages.” What would it be today? Ham on buns! Bananas! Cream puffs! Sack lunches, too, were love gifts from new friends. We were abundantly blessed by the warmth of the people who served us. But the key benefit of the whole trip was perhaps relationships. A church away out West had the opportunity to build closer ties with sister churches on the prairies. And in­ dividually we made new friends, sharing their homes and sampling their lifestyles. For some in our group the trip provided a re-

Children’s choir at the Vanderhoof church

union with old friends and with family members. It stretched us beyond our own community and regular circle of friends. And then there was the building of relationships within our own group, and bus travel was an important part of this. On the bus there was time for games of checkers and Othello — teens with teens, or a grown man with a six-year-old boy. Interaction between the different age groups was a real bonus. There was time for chatting, learning to know each other’s backgrounds, and time for sharing - concerns, spiritual growth, viewpoints. Changing seat partners was the norm. We experienced other sharing - pop, candy, lunches, books, games, and coffee. As one person sampled a friend’s hot fudge sundae, using a third friend’s spoon, her comment was, “It’s something what being together does to one. I wouldn’t have done this a week ago!’’ And when the ear came off a hard-used stuffed animal, out came needle and thread to the rescue. Of course, there were outbursts of song. And one member even flowered forth with poetry! We were not without situations that called for grace and forgiveness, but God blessed our days of travel together in such a way that they were truly enjoyable. “Praise the Lord!... Praise Him for His mighty deeds; Praise Him according to His excellent greatness ... Let everything that has breath praise the Lord” (Psalm 150). Our music program does not start with the band. Our children’s choir begins when the children are old enough to climb the few steps up the stage. The older children’s stronger voices blend with them in singing, “Praise the Name of Jesus.” The past two years we have been talking about and making plans to start a Christian Day School. The school building is now becoming a reality. The outer shell is now standing. We plan to have it ready for the beginning of September. Father’s Day was a beautiful day to have baby dedication. Parents with their little ones came to the front to dedicate their lives to God. They were Natasha, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dave Thiessen; Jaclyn Dale, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Reg Koop. June 7 was a special day for Jake Harder as he followed the Lord in baptism. Most of his brothers and sisters came from LaCrete for the occasion. The following Sunday we were invited to the Lord’s Supper. On June 28 the congregation enjoyed a beautiful day outside at our Sunday school picnic. We congratulate Margi Thiessen, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ike Thiessen, and Darrel Koop, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Koop, on their engagement., An October wedding is being planned. PAGE 9

Barbecue at the Aberdeen church retreat at Gimli Bible Camp.

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Washing dishes at the Aberdeen church retreat.

ing July 5 for Swaziland, Africa, under MCC in the field of teaching. Peter completed his Ph. D. and Leona her B.A. this past winter. Congratulations! May this enrich your ser­ vice for Christ. With all these good times we can’t leave camp without clean up and pack up again. We did not leave spiritually empty, but refreshed and challenged to serve the Lord with new joy. We thank Him for the good weekend.

SPECIAL FATHER’S DAY SERVICE

Evangelical Fellowship (Steinbach): June 14 we had planned our Sunday school picnic. It was rainy and wet so we had our guest speaker, Agnes Friesen, present her Peter and Leona Penner and their children’s feature in church. By noon it was bright and sunny so we moved outside. We sons, Robert (left) and Russel (right). gathered at Friedensfeld Park for a barbecue and pot luck dinner. After dinner we had a tabloid with everyone participating. Then CHURCH RETREAT HELD there was a ball game. It was enjoyable and a blessing to all. Aberdeen (Winnipeg): It was a great June 21 was Father’s Day. It was the weekend for us at Aberdeen June 12-14. As night for our evening service. The group in a church group we went to Gimli Bible charge decided to have the ladies do the Camp for our church retreat. Jesus says, program for the fathers. Clara Doerksen had “Come with me, yourselves, to some lonely a very appropriate talk on “The Role of the place where you can rest quietly.” Father.” The poem following is by Heidi During this quiet time we were able to Harms. open our hearts to God and to one another. Sharing time on Saturday morning, led by Peter Penner, helped many of us to respond My Dad’s Special and share our struggles, fears, and our joys in the Lord. Our physical needs were well cared for My dad’s special because he is fearless; too. The food was scrumptious and the ball When I’m afraid I slip my hand in his. games were played vigorously. Sunday morning, after our worship ser­ My dad’s special because he i.s so strong, vice, we had a commissioning service for When I feel so weak. Don and Kathy Procter and Peter and Leona, Russell and Robert Penpp'-, Don and My dad’s special because he feels good Kathy are working under MCC with the When I make my grade. natives, teaching them gardening. Peter and Leona, Russell and Robert Penner, are leav- My dad's special because he’s so wise PAGE 10

When I don’t know what to do with a problem.

My dad’s special because he’s helpful When 1 have a problem. My dad’s special because he’.s the best When he gets an A on an exam. My dad’s special because he has a lap When I need love. My dad’s special because he forgives When I break something of his.

Heidi Harms Grade 4

Letters A REQUEST FROM AFRICA

As avid readers of The Messenger we realize that it is not an advertising agent. However, we wonder if it could perhaps this once serve as a channel for a call for help. We will describe our situation and then leave it at your discretion. During the time we’ve served with MCC in Zambia, our house affairs in Saskatoon have not gone well. Being so far removed from the situa­ tion, we feel so helpless, but thought perhaps we could aid our house manager by writing church papers for some space. Rick and Grace Knelsen FOR RENT Mennonite Central Committee family x)n assignment in Africa wishes to rent their family dwelling on Ave. J.So., Saskatoon — main floor, L.H.K. unit and 1 bdrm, suite in basement. Contact: Harry Guenler, res. 2447001, bus. 244-2700, Saskatoon, Sask. THE MESSENGER

Northern Fellowship Youth Rally Sunday, May 31, dawned warm and sun­ ny, a beautiful day for our annual Northern Fellowship Youth Rally held in Hudson Bay, Saskatchewan this year. The Hudson Bay youth group had the privilege of hosting the activities. The youth rally is a popular event, and this year we had a great turnout with a total of 85 kids. The activities began with registration at 2:00 at the church. After everyone had arriv­ ed and the instructions had been given, we all headed for The Bowl, a little valley by the river. The first thing on the agenda was a Treasure Hunt. The four teams were each SBC Children of Light appeared at Celebration Youth '81 on Friday night, youth kept together by holding onto a rope. session. Groups of people could be seen running up and down the hillside and along the river in Celebration Youth ‘81’ search of clues which would eventually lead Some hearty chorus singing led by Jim Dr. Victor Adrian, spoke briefly on the topic to the treasure. After that we played a few more games and then everyone was more Harms set the tone for Celebration Youth “Let Us See Your Glory.” In a personal yet than ready for a supper of barbecued hot '81 on Friday evening, July 3, following the informal manner he talked about how dogs and the delicious watermelon which main session of the EMC convention. What Moses sought God. In Moses we have an ex­ the group of kids lacked in quantity was ample of a man who knew and experienced was the treasure from our hunt. compensated for by the volume and God. Despite the alluring opportunities and After supper we all headed back to the chapel where others from the church joined enthusiasm of their singing. By the way, if pleasures offered by Egypt, he turned his us. The new church was full of enthusiastic you missed out, you really missed out on a back on them and chose the oppressed minority. His request of God to “show me people as Tim Plett and Garry Wilkinson led great evening! The “Children of Light” from the SBC did Thy glory” was bold, and yet God honoured us in some lively choruses. The film “Shadow of the Boomerang” left us with a a lively rendition of numbers on the theme it. Dr. Adrian posed the questions: “To what challenge to turn our lives over to God and “Life Unlimited.” Following an intermission extent do you seek to know God?” and to serve Him wholeheartedly. Pastor John and doughnut break, Jim introduced us to “How intense is your search?” He concluded Kornelsen had a few closing remarks and Dawson Harms who opened with a real his talk with a summary on how we can kin­ crowd pleaser, “Why Did I Leave My Good dle within our hearts the desire to see God then we all said our goodbyes. We want to thank all those who came out Old Sally Brown?” and concluded his set and know Him better. We must intensely and contributed. We hope you had a great with a moving “You’re the Very Best want it; we must obey; we must be patient; time and hope to see you again next year! Friend.” His superb guitar picking and fine and we must be open for radical change in rhythm made for some good listening. our lives. Following the music, convention speaker, Barbara Plett

"Coffee break" at Celebration Youth at annual convention.

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From the Editor executive is made up of the moderator, vice­ moderator, secretary and two other members. With the exception of the moderator and vice-moderator, the General Board organizes itself. The moderator and vice-moderator are elected by the Conference Council. These two men now are Edwin Plett, moder­ ator, and Henry Kornelsen, vice-moderator. We would encourage prayer support for the Gener­ al Board members, as well as members in all boards and committees. There were no applications for acceptance of new churches at the 19M annual convention; nor were there any last year. Records show that there were two in 1975, four in 1977 and two in 1979. With one church closing (see Executive report this issue) we have a net loss of one church this convention year. Do we need a challenge? We are happy that the Board of Missions (see Conference Council report this issue) has this on their agenda for Canada. A pleasing feature of the inspirational sessions this year was the auditorium decorations, the large ban­ ner with the convention theme, and the beautiful flor­ al arrangements. This is to be commended. We were also well fed at the 1981 annual conven­ tion, thanks to the devotion of the various church ladies’ groups. A hearty thank you! You also gave! Offerings were designated for three different projects. The Board of Missions’ objective was $13,000. This was not quite reached ($10,837.13 received). They had four projected places for their offering: East Paraguay development, national church program subsidy, medical fund, and Radio ZP30 Chaco. Does that mean that some of the project­ ions have to be curtailed? Total offerings came to $17,997.25. Also receiving offerings were the Steinbach Bible College and the Conference. An added dimension to the convention was two visitors from Africa, Mbonza Kikunga and his wife, Dimuka Ana. Dimuka Ana spoke to the ladies on Sat­ urday while Mbonza addressed the convention on Sunday. Occasions like this bring home the imper­ ative of missions. Mr. Kikunga is president of the 40,000-member Mennonite Church of Zaire. This con­ stitutes some eight times the membership of our Conference. Fraternal delegates coming to bring greetings were Mr. John Dyck from the Conference of Mennonites of Manitoba and Frank C. Peters from the Mennonite Brethren. John Froese brought greetings from the Evangelical Mennonite Mission Conference. Where do we go from here? I think of one of the frat­ ernal delegates and the kind words he said about us. Made us feel pretty good, didn’t it? At the same time, if what he said was true we have a tremendous chal­ lenge to uphold, a faith to contend for. May God help us. D.K.S.

Looking Back at Annual Convention A considerable portion of this week’s Messenger is devoted to the annual convention report. We trust it will be a blessing to those who could not attend. For those who were there it should prove to be a reminder of blessings received. Attendance at the annual convention seemed defin­ itely to have fallen behind. This was not only my ob­ servation. I suppose the fault could lie in a number of areas at which one can only hazard a guess - the weather, lack of interest, or other obligations. The convention featured four inspirational sessions, each one with a message by guest speaker. Dr. Victor Adrian. The convention theme was Knowing and Seeking God. Under this Mr. Adrian developed four sub­ topics: (Also available on tape) 1. Seeking the Face of God 2. Thirs ting After Chris t 3. Knowing God Through the Cross 4. Knowing God Th rough the Resurrection We want to share some parts of these inspiring messages with you in a future issue of the Messenger. Certainly a lot of effort goes into an event like the annual convention and a note of thanks is in order to all who helped make it a success. You will also find separate reports on two events connected with the annual convention - Celebration Youth ’81 on Friday night and the ladies’ meeting on Saturday afternoon. We are indebted to Barb Plett, Landmark, for a report on the youth meeting and to Sue Barkman, Blumenort, for an account of the ladies’ session. Sue also receives credit for the photos going with the report of the ladies’ meeting. Those who have followed news of the EMC will remember the proposed changes in Conference struc­ ture. This came to pass this year when the administra­ tion passed from the so-called EMC Executive to a body called The General Board. The reason for the change is to give wider represen­ tation to the Conference as a whole. Whereas the former executive (seven members) was made up of members within relative proximity of our head office in Steinbach, the new 15-member General Board is made up of persons all the way to B.C. This, of course, has come about due to the restruc­ turing of the Conference for regional representation as accepted at the December 1980 Conference Council meeting. This divides all our Canadian churches into eight regions with representation according to the number of members in each region. This General Board meets a minimum of twice a year (not a maxi­ mum of three times, as erroneously reported in my June 19 editorial). This board has a five-member executive which can meet oftener for conducting interim business. This

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