The Messenger April 24, 1981

The Messenger EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE

24/81

VOL. 19 NO. 9

I see The wonder in a baby’s face As in your arms it lies. The beauty of a leafy branch Against the morning skys, A cheery bird-song in early spring, I see our God in everything.

The softness of the new spring grass As I walk along a shady lane. The sunlight filtering through the trees, The freshness of the first spring rain. Flowers blooming sweet and fair, I see our God is everywhere.

A spider in a corner, hides, Spinning his web so gossamer fine, A humming bird among the flowers Glorying in the honeysuckle vine, A meadow lark on fence post sings, I see our God in little things. The towering pine with peak toward sky, A tiny flower within its shade. The cattle browsing in open space Rabbits feeding in the glade. In all these things, whether great or small, I know our God rules over all. I

And though I can’t express in words The things I feel so deep within, nr thank my God each day in prayer. For giving me another chance, I’ll turn to Him each day anew. And know my God will see me through.

- H.M.K.

Claudine An Anabaptist mother who chose death

Anne Neufeld Rupp

“Come wife, come.” Piersom’s voice rang urgently into the room. He wore a heavy coat and a dark cap pulled down over his eyes. A cloth bag hung over his shoulder. He took a step to­ wards his spouse who was handing clothes to the three older children. Claudine turned quickly, her large, brown eyes fixed tensely on him. “But the children,” she whispered, “they must have clothes and bread.” Her restless fingers were folding the last little frock. “Yes, yes,” Piersom replied. He lowered his voice as he bent towards his wife. “Word has just come. They are nearing Meinen. We must hurry. In this moment life means more than bread.” Claudine’s eyes deepened. She touched his sleeve and said, “Go! You are the Mennist minister they seek. Take the older ones and go. It takes but a moment to care for the babe.” He glanced at the wailing infant cradled near the fire. “Go,” she urged again. “Go. I come shortly.” She pushed him towards the door. He turned. Reluctant. Look­ ing back he saw her already bending over the cradle. Calling the children, he turned again and they ran down the back lanes of Meinen into the dark woods beyond the town. Claudine picked up the child, held PAGE 2

him quietly for a moment, and took down wraps and covers from the cup­ board. “What a terrible time we are living in,” she said half aloud. “That men of so-called faith will turn against those who find new faith in the Word, and bring them to death.” She shuddered. “I’m glad Piersom is safe.” Tying her long black cloak around her shoulders, she stepped into the yard, moving furtively towards the woods. She heard the horses clatter­ ing down the streets, the shouts, the squabbling voices, and then the screech of a neighbor’s voice, high above the tumult. “Men, there goes the wife with a child on her arm. Take her.” Claudine gasped with fear. Unbe­ lievable. Why her? Her breath quick­ ened as she stumbled along the rough lane. “Run, run,” her mind whispered. “Don’t let the child fall. Don’t let the child fall,” it urged. Loud, raucous laughter followed close behind. Claudine tried desper­ ately to evade her captors, but a rough, heavy, hand grabbed her cloak, and pulled her to a stand­ still. She stood, her head bent mutely, sobs heaving her body. “0 my dear God Jesus Christ, save my child,” her mind murmured.

The moments fled into a dream. They were taking her away from Meinen. What would happen to her children? Piersom? She clutched her babe to her breast as the wooden cart rattled along the rough road. After hours that seemed like days a town appeared. A mocking face looked over the edge of the cart. “How be you liking the prisons in Ypres, madame?” he taunted. “Full of the likes of you. Anabaptists.” He spat on the ground and leered back at her. The cart jolted to a halt. Claudine was in prison. Her comfort - those around her who suffered for the faith as she did. Her agony - a child with­ out a future. “What is to become of you, my son? My Jan?” she moaned as she nurs­ ed and cared for him. The tightly closed prison doors gave no answer. Week after week the monks and priests came, urging her to recant. They offered the freedom of the wide open world, and the warm security of the little home in Meinen. But this was no ordinary woman. Claudine had a faith that would not be refut­ ed. For every assault she answered with Scripture, undaunted by the learnedness of her assailants. They watched her through narrow, tight THE MESSENGER

"We are outdone by this woman. She is stronger than a rock,

more perverse than a storm."

eyes as she sat holding her babe, calmly speaking as though she her­ self were versed in theology. “The audacity of this woman,” the priest muttered as he turned to go. For 10 months they had been trying to break her, but she remained as un­ shakable as the stately trees of Meinen. “Perhaps we have not yet found the key that will open her doors,” an­ swered the younger priest who had escorted him. “What do you mean? We have tried everything.” The older man didn’t like the young certainty in the other’s eyes. “Remember the prison break last month? All those Anabaptists who broke out? Madame didn’t leave. Why not?” He eyed the older man who shook his head as though confronted by a puzzle. “Aha, let me tell you,” the younger priest continued. “Her babe was not kept with her at night. She would not flee without the babe. That is where her faith lies. Take the babe and you take her heresies.” The older man laughed. Unbelievable how these younger minds worked. Next morning Claudine heard the clatter of prison doors. Fear fingered the edges of her mind. Bending closer to the nursing child, she gazed at the APRIL 24, 1981

dirty, tattered blanket. “0 my little Jan, what will become of you,” she murmured. “When will these days end?” The two priests appeared. They watched her. “You love that son,” said the older man in a feigned, gentle voice. Claudine pretended not to hear. What did they want now? “Leave your heretical Mennist be­ liefs or we take your child. We will give him to a wet nurse. You will never see him again.” The air was heavy with silence. Claudine, bewild­ ered, looked at one and then the other. How cruel to play these hu­ mors on an imprisoned woman. Soon they would say what they really wanted. Her silence angered the priests. “Recant or we take the child,” shouted the younger. He reached to­ wards the screaming child held tight­ ly by his mother. “No, not my child,” cried the mother in an unguarded voice. “0 my dear Savior, not my child!” “Recant,” shouted the voice again. Claudine’s voice quivered as she stood up, tall, solemn, and pale. “Never will I betray my Master, Jesus Christ, nor will I deny him. Neither death nor life . ..” Before she could finish the younger man

snatched the child, pushed the mother back, and fled. Week after week the two came back, urging Claudine to recant. They promised the child. They threatened. They bribed. Only a staring silence met their words. But when the prison doors banged once again, they heard her song rising through the prison windows, wafting towards the sky like wings that know only the ecstasy of flight. “The Lord is my light and my salva­ tion. Whom shall I fear?” rang her praise. Those gathered near the prison heard and wept. “We are outdone by this woman,” the elder priest muttered, again feeling thwarted. “She is stronger than a rack. More perverse than a storm.” “She gives strength to others with her stubborn will. Soon they will all oppose us,” added the younger thoughtfully. “Better she were dead.” Claudine le Vettre met her death by burning in AD 1568. Survivors were her husband, Piersom de Muliers, and four children, Margriete, Pieter, Nicolaes and Jan. (Story based on Martyrs Mirror, Pages 737-738).

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Straight Talk “Follow the Leader’’ by Stan Plett TELEVISION HAS tremendous power to create “hero types” and to enhance values that are associated with such “hero type” models. Young people are especially im­ pressionable and seek to imitate their “heroes” in clothing, speech and behavior. A survey conducted by a team of mental health professionals produced the following “personality profile” of a “mentally healthy male” (i.e. hero type): 1. Aggressive, 2. Independent, 3. Unemotional, 4. Logical, 5. Direct, 6. Adventurous, 7. Self-Confident, 8. Ambitious. Scripture presents other “hero-type” models for us to follow. The ultimate “hero” we are to«mulate in attitude as well as action is Jesus Christ. Much of the media portrays him as an anemic, effeminate weakling quoting quaint and pious platitudes, its own twisted version of meek and mild.” A. For a less biased view of “our leader” let’s take a Scrip­ tural “random sampling” to draw up a “personality profile” of Jesus Christ. The following picture emerges: 1. He was not prejudiced but showed a genuine compas­ sion to those considered as outcasts or unimportant by society. 1) Sinners (Mk. 2:15,16) 2) Children (Mk. 9:36,37) 3) Samaritan woman (double “curse”) (Jn. 4:9)

Letters MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT THE HANDICAPPED I am pleased to see the focus on disabled persons in the February 27 issue of The Messenger. One reason for this is that I am handicapped by cerebral palsy. Also, public awareness is my job, and I am glad to see others in the Conference involved as well. (I am public relations director with The Cerebral Palsy Association in Alberta. I sup­ port my internship this way.) Two points might have been made stronger in the focus, I thought. First, mis­ conceptions about handicapped persons are common; they should have been listed and discarded. Included among them are the following: 1) Handicapped people are hap­ piest when they are together. In fact, they are happiest when they are involved in of life’s activities, and accepted as the people they are. 2) A ll physically handicapped per­

2. Showed deep emotions 1) Anger at unrighteousness (Mk. 11:15,16) 2) Deep grief and distress (Mk. 14:33-36) 3) Cried for others (Luke 19:4) 3. Normal growth and development (Luke 2:52) 4. Sympathetic and not afraid to go contrary to public opinion (Mk. 3:1-5) 5. Rebuked unbelieving (Mk. 9:19) 6. Authority (Mk. 9:25) 7. Generally well liked (Mk. 14:1,2) 8. Kept cool when wrongly accused (Mk. 14:61,62; Is. 53:7) 9. Powerful “sin-convicting” presence (Luke 5:7,8) 10. Magnetic personality (Luke 5:27,28) 11. Enjoyed “good things of life” (Luke 7:34) 12. Strong self-discipline; tempted but refused to yield (Heb. 2:18; 4:15) B. Compare this “sketch” with that of a “mentally healthy male.” C. Evaluate your children’s T.V. heroes in the light of our biblical norm, Jesus Christ. (Do it with them together). Remember: A child’s first “heroes” are his parents. As they “follow the leader” in imitating their parents, do they thus also imitate Christ? (1 Thess. 1:6).

Stan Plett is the pastor of the Rosenort Fellowship Chapel, Rosenort, Man. Straight Talk is a feature of the EMC Social Concerns Committee.

sons are mentally retarded. Not so! Sometimes people are affected physically and intellectually, but only one-third of peo­ ple affected by cerebral palsy are also affected by mental retardation! If people can’t speak, that doesn’t mean they are stupid. They just can’t express verbally what they are thinking. 3) Marriage is "out" for handicapped people. Handicapped persons may or may not marry, but many factors must be considered besides a person’s han­ dicap. it is not automatically “in” or “out”; circumstances and freedom of choice are in­ volved, the same as for “normal” people. More could be listed, but I recognize space is short. Second, handicapped people give - they don’t just take. They might well be more dependent than many people, but that is only one side of the picture. People such as Helen Keller, Franklin Delano Roosevelt and the apostle Paul have made significant con­ tributions to society. Many handicapped people hold responsible positions and sup­ port themselves. Even those severely limited

in their abilities teach us the value of relationships. If society responds to the handicapped in an insensitive or inappropriate manner, I

next page please

CONTRIBUTORS: Anne Neufeld Rupp lives at Box 447, Middlebury, Indiana 46540. The article, “Claudine,” is reprinted by permission from The Mennonite with Editorial Office at 600 Shaftesbury Blvd., Winnipeg, Man. Marilyn Dueck lives at 541 Henry Place, Steinbach, Man. Leona Dueck Penner lives at 914 Sommerville Ave., Winnipeg, Man. R3T 1B3.

COVER: HMK is Mrs. Henry Krahn, Birch River, Man. The picture comes from Photographic Branch, Department of Travel Industry, Vic­ toria, B.C.

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. THE MESSENGER is the publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. Its purpose is to inform, instruct, and inspire. Inform as to wha, is going on in the Conference; instruct in Godliness and victorious living; inspire to earnestly contend for the faith. All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor D. K. Schellenberg. Box 1268. Steinbach. Manitoba, ROA 2A0. Leiters, 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.

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THE MESSENGER

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suggest that society has more of a problem than the handicapped person does! • Terry Smith Calgary, Alta.

CHRISTIANS: A CHOSEN GENERATION Since I know some of your people it is very interesting to get The Messenger. I read with great interest the article in the January issue on “Sharing Our Family’s Stories.” We are a family who wears those funny clothes. But we believe, as do all others who accept the Word as light, that Christians “are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people: that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light” (I Peter 2:9). People who don’t think the Bible tells us how to dress need to study this subject. It starts in the account of the fall of man in the Garden of Eden. God had to take a goat and cover the body of man. Rev. 1:13 says that the Son of man was clothed with a garment down to the foot. As we approach the summer time again, I feel sorry for people who profess to be Christians and who expose their bodies to the snare of Satan. One of our Conference elders has stated. We are a people within a people. The church is a called-out people, so let us faithfully serve Him; this is my prayer. Noah Hege Littlefork, MN

THE POWER OF PRAYER Have you ever wondered if it is worthwhile to say grace before eating if you are in a restaurant? Late one evening, a small group of teenagers entered a restaurant. There were only a few other people there. These teenagers, who were all Christians, prayed before they began to eat, and God blessed them for it. How do I know? I was there. After we had finished eating, a young woman asked us if we were Christians. She, together with her friend, had seen us praying. They wondered if we could talk to them for a while. As a result, we were able to spend an hour counselling these women. These ladies asked many questions. We were not prepared for all of them, but we could answer when they asked what difference Christianity made in our lives. All three of us had the privilege of explaining what Christ meant to us. We encouraged them to follow Jesus and prayed with them. The Lord truly did bless. Although this type of experience may not happen to everyone, God will bless each per­ son who is faithful to him. Joanell Wiebe RRl, Dugald, Man.

APRIL 24, 1981

PEARDONVILLE CHURCH CLOSED We wish to inform our Conferences churches of the decision of the Peardonville Fellowship Chapel to close its doors. This decision was made largely in light of the fact that the church failed to grow. After some time of careful evaluation the Peardonville people decided that it would be in the best interest of all to recognize that the Peardon­ ville Fellowship Chapel had served its purpose. The last service was held on March 1, 1981. At present the Em­ manuel Church is using the church facilities until they will have completed their own church building. Some of our members are fellowshipping with them. The selling of the property will be considered at a later date. EM Conference Executive

Book Review A book to renew your faith Majken. Carl Lawrence, Nashville. Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1981. 188 pp., $4.95. Reviewed by Dave Schellenberg. Here is a book you will find hard to put down. From the age of four Majken already had the desire to be a nurse, “I will help people get well and tell them about Jesus at the same time.” Majken did not only become a nurse, she went on to graduate school and finally became supervisor and child X-ray techni­ cian at a 3(X)-bed hospital. When refugees, trying to escape the after­ math of Hitler, began arriving in ever greater numbers in Sweden, she had a feeling that she should devote her life to help the helpless. Coming back to Sweden from a period of time in the U.S.A., her attention was drawn to a home for refugee children at Eckern­ foerde, Germany on the Baltic Sea. And so began her ministry at this home which was to span many years. By faith this children’s home began to be built and became a refuge for victims of war. It was a miracle of God. Early in the ’6O’s she embarked on a new ministry, this time to the Muslims in North Africa. Here again she laboured and became a blessing to many. After some years she had to vacate North Africa because she was a foreigner.

When she left, a desert had been turned into an oasis. Lush watermelons and other garden products dotted the landscape. Several miles of pipeline fed water to thirsty roots ... a clinic was the focal point of the entire province. Some drank of the Living Water. News about Hurricane Fifi (1974) in Hon­ duras set her off on another mission of mer­ cy. Again, as in her two former ministries, she was able to bring hope to many in Hon­ duras. This is a book that will inspire you and renew your faith in prayer.

Calling All Nurses Student, active and inactive nurses Plan now to attend the next EMC Nurses’ Fellowship Date: Friday, May 22, 1981 Time: 7:45 p.m. Place: Evangelical Fellowship Church, Steinbach, Man. (corner of Friesen and Giesbrecht) Telephone: 326-9028 Theme: “Communications”

Steinbach Bible College

Graduation May 3,1981,3:00 p.m.

Bible College Gym Speaker: Arthur McPhee Well-known speaker of the radio program "In Touch"

Everyone Welcome PAGE 5

Missions I invited some brethren to come to my home. They sang. They prayed. I felt something special. Something wonderful, I felt the touch of the Lord. I was spiritually healed. Pardoned, Forgiven. I accepted Christ as my God, My light; I accepted Christ as my Salvation. I was physically healed, I can walk, I can work. Christ raised me up. I’m praising And glorifying the name of my Lord.

Luz Elena Munoz Vargas

The Great Physician Brethren and friends, I testify to you. Being sick I was healed. An epileptic. In bed with spinal arthritis, The Lord came to make me whole.

The doctor said, “You can’t be healed.” I was bedridden, Without hope. I couldn’t walk Nor work. Only waiting for a hopeless death.

One day, crying, I said to my mother, “The Great Physician I want to meet. He is love And power. I know He has power to heal.” My mother shouted, “Glory to God, Christ is waiting, Christ has power. He can heal you. Save you. The Lord can make you whole.” PAGE 6

I am very grateful to my Lord, My Redeemer, My God. I praise Him, Glorify Him. I left the world to follow Him. Great miracles He has done To my body. My soul. How beautiful to sing And shout. And shout again - PRAISE THE LORD!

New accountant at head office. Beth Hiebert of Steinbach commenced duties at the Conference Office in Stein­ bach on February 26. She is the accoun­ tant and also does the secretarial work for the EMC Board of Missions.

The testimony of Luz Elena Munoz Vargas, Chihuahua, Mexico as told to Catherine Thiessen. Opportunities in EMC Missions

EMC Missions Executive Secretary Box 1268 Steinbach, Man. ROA 2A0

e Spanish-speaking couple for evangelism and church planting In Paraguay. e Three couples to take language I am seeking God’s guidance concern­ training in preparation for service in a •”0 missionary service. At this point I Latin American field by 1982. would like to know about: e Two German-speaking teachers for Mexico in the fall of 1981. career service a Two German-speaking teachers short term service (up to two years) ■ " ' the ■■ 1982 ------ school year. summer Christian service for Paraguay for • A nurse to take language training in preparation for a missionary nur- The kinds of ministry that interest me: sing assignment. If you have been thinking about --------------------------------------------------missionary service, even as a remote possibility, it could be that God is --------------------------------------------------speaking to you. If so, we would like to help. We’ll send you information Education I have completed:-----------about EMC missions, be ready to counsel you and pray with you for ---------------------------------------------------God’s continued guidance. Wo Invite you to take the first step now. Fill In Name -----------------------------------------the form at right, mall It to us, and Address we’ll take It from there. THE MESSENGER

Messenger News PRIVATE SCHOOL MEETING HELD

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On April 18 some 37 people turned up at the Crestview Fellowship (EMC) to listen to and share views on the private school issue in the EMC. Initiating the meeting was the EMC Board of Education and Publication. Invitations had gone out to the areas where private schools were already operating or where people were interested. Bro. Harvey Plett, speaking for the Board of Education and Publication, outlined a broad objective for the meeting: A report on what is being done. What are the needs? How can we help? Reports were given on eight different schools either operated by locals in the Conference or schools which were situated in EMC areas. A free interaction of concerns, questions and answers enhanced the meeting. There was an interest to have another one in the future. A summary of the meeting is to be mailed to all those who attended. - D.S.

The younger section of the children's rally in session at the Ridgewood church.

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PARAGUAY MISSIONARIES REPORT

Arden, Man.: Last month it was our joy to have missionaries. Bob and Lavon Goddard and their family, with us. They have been serving the Lord in Paraguay with the New Tribes Mission. The Goddards and their two boys arrived in our area on March 17. They spent five days with the Rempel families. Margaret Fast (nee Rempel) was a co-worker with the Goddards for several years. Sunday, March 22, the Goddards and Margaret presented us with an evening program. They sang songs for us in Spanish and Guarani, accompanied by Bob with his guitar. Nowadays when there’s a missionary, you also expect slides, right? The Goddards made a good choice by showing us a great variety. It gave us a much better understan­ ding of the country, people, and church work. Since we adopted the Paraguayan pace of life for the evening, there was time for people to ask many questions. The meditation by Bob, and the thoughts shared by Lavon, revealed how they live in total dependence upon the Lord. Oh, that we might iso learn to live by faith!

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APRIL 24, 1981

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Croup discussions after a lecture during the evening services at the Ridgewood church. SEMINAR ON SERVANTHOOD

Ridgewood, Man.: We have just completed a series of evening services. Dr. Arden Thiessen from the Steinbach Bible College was the speaker. The type of service was something new for our church. Dr. Thiessen gave a lecture for the first hour after which we were dismissed and those that wanted to could stay for a question and answer period. Coffee was served during the question and answer period to give us a more informal at­ mosphere. The main topic of the series was “Ser­ vanthood.” The topic was presented very well with lectures on sub-topics such as “Ser­ vanthood in the Family,” «(< “Servanthood in Church and Community,” “Servanthood and Selfism,” plus several others. The exam­ ple of servanthood was Jesus himself.

During the first hour of the services there was also a rally for the children. They en­ joyed the singing, memorizing Bible verses, puppet shows, films and many other ac­ tivities. The evenings were well planned and enjoyed by everyone. On Sunday, April 12, the young people organized an afternoon of roller skating. The roller rink was rented for two hours during which there was skating as well as a short devotional by Pastor Henry Kornelson. No count was made of the number of bruises en­ countered. The afternoon was enjoyed by all who attended. The parents of children in the primary department of our Sunday school enjoyed the Open House on April 12. It gave parents a chance to chat with the teachers and also to see the class in session. Each teacher and class was presented. The hearty singing and the filmstrip were much appreciated. PAGE 7

CONCERT PRESENTED BY CHILDREN’S CHOIR Fisher Branch, Man.: A short Easter service was conducted at the home of Sally Tretiak of Broad Valley. Attendance was en­ couraging. On April 12 the children’s choir, under the direction of Danny Reimer, presented a short concert entitled “Why Jesus is Special.” Mr. Lawrence McAllister of the Canadian Sunday School Mission was the guest speaker at the Christian Education classes at the Fisher Branch and Poplarfield Schools early in March. A few weeks later John F. Plett treated the students to a movie on Beaver Creek Bible Camp. The host at the young people’s meeting on April 11 was Rodney Reimer. Rev. Harvey Plett of the Steinbach Bible College was the guest speaker at a short series of meetings here April 3-5. The guest speaker at our Communion service on April 16 was Rev. Ben Friesen of Winnipeg. Speaking at our Good Friday morning ser­ vice was Rev. Bill Peters of Hodgson. The ladies had a bake sale in a local store on April 10 to help raise support for an orphan in Haiti. The P.K. Friesens motored to Stonewall to attend an Interlake Fellowship meeting at the Dick Hamm home of Komarno. Guest speaker. Rev. Bob Orr, of Winnipeg spoke on “Church Growth.” The Peter Rimer family gathered for supper at Busy Beaver in honor of Mr. Reimer’s birthday in early April.

MISSIONARIES’ VISIT APPRECIATED

Heron, Sask.: It is a real treat for us to have visitors to our church. We had such a treat on March 22 when the Elmer Warkentins spent the day with our church family. They were here already for the morning service when Mr. Warkentin had the morning message. They visited in a few homes during the afternoon. Then in the evening they reported to us on their work in Nigeria. We especially appreciated the display that their son had made up, showing agriculture in Nigeria. Farming practices are a little different in Nigeria than in Heron, Sask. Mrs. Warkentin shared how the Lord had led them to Nigeria. We really enjoyed hav­ ing the Warkentins with us. We were sorry to see Kelvin and Corallee Thiessen leave our community in the begin­ ning of March. They moved out to Calgary, Alberta where Kelvin has a new job. Our church is small and so we miss each person who leaves our midst. A farewell coffee was held for them after one of our Sunday even­ ing services. For about six years now Norman Thiessens and Dick Thiessens have been

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The Forest Grove Church in Calgary, Alta, recently accepted a number of new members. Top (left to right): Clarence and Ingrid Krahn, Peter and Susan Thiessen, Harold and Marion Dueck. Bottom (left to right): Harold and Sandra Friesen, Terry and Marilyn Kroeker, Irene and Dennis Plett. driving to Maryfield once a week to join a group of older people for Bible study. The group has been slowly, but steadily, growing in that time as the people who come keep in­ viting more of their friends. Because the par­ ticipants are from quite a few different denominations, it makes for some very in­ teresting discussions. The Thiessens really enjoy this work.

CHURCH STUDY RETREAT Kleefeld, Man.: What are the goals of our church for the next five years? What plans or purposes do we seek to fulfill or strive for? How do we evaluate our church progress and priorities? The only way to find out the answers to these questions is to get together for some prayerful discussions. This our Kleefeld church did at our Study Retreat on March 20-21 at Nutimik Lake Bible Camp. First of all, it was a time of celebration and praise for the great things that the Lord has done for our church since our first

retreat held at Moose Lake in 1978. He has strengthened our church family with His love. He has increased our musical ministry. He has given us good youth programs. He continues to provide sound Biblical teaching during worship services.’ He has so marvelously provided us with adequate facilities in the form of a beautiful sanctuary. All this and so much more! Is it any wonder then that we look with confidence and op­ timism into the future, expecting great and mighty things from our God? With increased faith we set about making new goals such as planting new churches, contacting the un­ saved around us, increasing foreign missions, and many more. In closing. Pastor Ed Friesen shared these thoughts, “God has given us great potential, and as we stay in tune with the Holy Spirit, we have yet to see what God can do through the church. After all, it’s His church. His work. His people, so automatically it’s His glory too, and we praise Him! In order to help our children feel more a part of our worship services, we prepare THE MESSENGER

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Summer Christian Service What is Summer Christian Service? This is a program giving opportunities to young people to be involved in short-term Christian service during the summer months, but there are also opportunities of short-term service during other times of the year. For example, during this past winter two fellows spent five weeks in Nicaragua constructing bunk beds for the camp and doing various maintenance jobs. Why do young people apply for Christian Service? Here is what some of them have said: • “To give myself a broader view of the world, to grow in the Lord and to help other people.” • “To mature in my Christian life. To learn about missions and how I can be of more help.” • “Expand my experience and expose myself to mission work. To step out and see if overseas missions is what God’s plan is for me.” • “To see if mission work could be con­ sidered for myself, to learn to share my faith and to make new friends.” • “I feel God is leading me to serve Him in some way this summer.” • “I have wanted to serve the Lord in a summer program for a long time. I feel a few months on the mission field would give me a much better picture of what it is to be a mis­ sionary.” • “I want to share Jesus with other kids and I also want to grow and mature in Him.” What does Summer Christian Service do for you? Young people who return from a short term of service usually refer to their involve­ ment as a rewarding experience. They feel that their own lives have been enriched and that they have contributed to the building of God’s kingdom. Here is the testimony of a young person who spent six weeks in Germany one summer: “We could tell you of the many good times we had together - sharing, pray­ ing, working, crying and laughing together. This summer was a great opportunity for us to get to know each other, as well as to get to know our missionaries in Germany and gain some understanding of foreign missionary life.

APRIL 24, 1981

“Summer service provided a unique way of serving the Lord and people. ‘Tell the peo­ ple back in Canada thanks for sending you and send us a group again next year,’ we were told. “This summer also provided an opportuni­ ty to do some travelling and to see a little more of Europe. During a day off we went to Berlin where we took a tour of East and West Berlin. This experience certainly helped us appreciate our freedom in Canada. Dur­ ing the five days designated for travel we went to Denmark, Norway and Sweden. We enjoyed especially the beautiful scenery in Norway. “This summer also challenged us to trust in God in various circumstances. On our way to Seesen, due to some complications with some of our luggage, a few of the group just barely made it for the air bus from Frankfurt to Hanover. ‘No one boards after 15 minutes before leaving time,’ we were told. Yet somehow the last few got on five minutes before we left. A real answer to prayer, we felt. One day one of the mikes we had rented seemed to have disappeared. That would mean a lot of money. Where would it come from? We prayed about it and after a lot of searching on our part the company located it in their repair shop. We could tell you of many other times we felt God’s guidance, thanks to those of you who prayed. “Want a great summer? Have you con­ sidered summer service?’’ What are the opportunities for Summer Christian Service in the EMC? Canada — There are many opportunities to serve in Canada during the summer months in the following ministries: 1) Bible camps, 2) Vacation Bible School, 3) Pastoral “fill-in” when a pastor is on holidays. Smaller churches appreciate young people taking employment in the area where the

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church is located and helping along in the church during their off hours. This also gives opportunity for the young person to be a witness at his place of employment. A number of young people have been involved in this way while earning money to return to school. Foreign — Most of our opportunities for summer service this summer in a foreign country have been filled. The program this year involves the following areas: 1) Mexico - A few young people are go­ ing to help in areas such as office work, VBS, visitation, housework, and the literature ministry. 2) Nicaragua — A nurse is going to Nicaragua to assist in our medical work while one of the nurses is on a short furlough. Two fellows spent five weeks there earlier this year, as mentioned above. Another fellow plans to go for some time during the summer. 3) Germany — For the past number of years we have had a team in Germany. This coming summer there is no team going. We are planning to send another team in 1982. What do I do if I am interested in Summer Christian Service? If you are interested and would like more information write, phone or visit: Office of EMC Board of Missions Box 1268 Steinbach, Manitoba ROA 2A0 Location: 440 Main Street Phone: (204) 326-6401 We invite you to discuss your interests in Christian Service with us.

This page has been presented by the EMC Board of Missions for this issue.

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From the Editor GUEST EDITORIAL

with matters of time and eternity. Alone in the crowd! Oh, for someone who’d come and sincerely and pointedly ask, “How is it going, pastor? May I pray with you and for you?” Lord will You not prompt folks to do just that? Some pastors are fatigued. This could be the result of poor time management. Or some may be overworked because of the indifference of so many church members. Not enough folks are A PASTOR’S PRAYER willing to carry their share of responsibilities. These folks fail to realize, it seems, that with the adherence to a local body Dear Lord, of believers there come both, privileges and responsibilities. It is a beautiful morning! You gave me peaceful slumber. My Sometimes we pastors are in danger of developing a worka­ body, mind and spirit feel refreshed. All nature, too, is alive holic syndrome; we have to keep moving lest we be labeled and jubilant. As I read and meditate. Your Word is rich with slothful. After all, many of us are salaried and we’re expected new meaning. I’m challenged anew to give my best to the to be on 24-hour call. And we want to be, but sometimes it’s so Master. Indeed, this is the first day of the rest of my life. May exhausting! The family, too, often does not get the needed it be lived for Your glory! attention. Lord, I’m glad to hear that many congregations ex­ I’m thrilled again, and also very much humbled, by the real­ pect, and arrange for, the pastor to have an annual vacation ization that You’ve called me to shepherd Your flock. As You time together with his family. You also, when You walked this know. Lord Jesus, there have been times and occasions when I earth, took time out to rest awhile. was riding the crest of the wave, so to speak, because of the Some pastors are really struggling with temptation. Pastors blessings that came my way. But of late there is disturbing evi­ tempted? Definitely so! Lord, You know. They are not a super dence of more and more — what should I call it — well, something class of men, constantly victorious and above reproach as they like PASTOR DROPOUTS! We’ve sort of become used to the are purported to be. Satan is real, very real. term SCHOOL DROPOUTS, yet why pastor dropouts? Dear Lord, help all pastors this day to preach the gospel and In recent months I’ve tried to analyze why in pastoral work, to live the gospel! And as Christians band together in prayer, a ministry so vital and rewarding, there is such a dearth in there will be fewer PASTOR DROPOUTS. Thank You for lis­ personnel. Do You know why? (Why, of course You know, for tening! Amen. You know all things! Pardon me — I guess I just got carried away in my chit-chat here this morning.) Some suggestions to congregations: Some pastors are discouraged. They may slip into a period of A pastor needs to enrich and revitalize his ministry. Have depression. Their actions and words have repeatedly been mis­ you offered to take the pastor and his wife to a Christian interpreted and misrepresented. Or they have tried so hard Workers’ seminar, or if they have a family, have you offered and “failed.” This is nothing new, really. Elijah was a man like to take care of their children so the two of them can go to­ as we men are — very human indeed. After his astonishing vic­ gether? tory on Mount Carmel, he fled from Jezebel and wished he A pastor and his wife also need to socialize in a non-church could die. But You came to his rescue and, in most remarkable setting. How about arranging to take them to a concert? Anti­ fashion, restored his confidence in his prophetic ministry. cipation of a future event adds to the thrill! Could it be that in today’s demanding society of professional­ One of the most profitable things a church can do for its ism too few parishioners, members of the congregation, make pastor is to periodically enable him to visit a mission field. it their God-given responsibility to offer words of encourage­ If you do not agree with a pastor’s decision or message, do ment to the pastor and his family? not criticize him publicly. Chat with him personally about it. You’ll both be glad you did! Some pastors are lonely. Sunday mornings they have their The pastor is expected to visit the homes in the community, accustomed ear-to-ear grin as they welcome folks to church. and this ministry is usually deeply appreciated. When did you They are surrounded by people. They sing lustily the hymns of last visit the pastor’s home? “praise and assurance” and even dare to “Amen!” a timely A pastor’s wife is often lonely. Visit her during the day spoken word by the chairman of the deacon board. And they sometime, especially when her husband is away on an assign­ seem to preach with conviction and courage, and exalt the ment. name of Christ. Yet when it’s all over, they sit in the living A pastor’s children need adult attention in order to help room at home, very much alone. them feel accepted. They do not want to be regarded as a Yes, there is a loneliness in the ministry, a loneliness which class by themselves! They are very normal children, also is shared by many in public office or in professional life who facing frustrations and temptations! almost daily find themselves confronted with issues for which And more than anything else, a pastor and his family need there is no “blueprint.” It is a loneliness which wells up your prayers. They have physical, emotional and spiritual whenever decisions must be made that affect the lives of needs like everyone else. Furthermore, there are times a others, and for which there can be no definite assurance as to pastor’s ministry is rendered ineffective because of rebellious the final outcome. It is a loneliness which tends to overwhelm family members. Are you praying for them daily? the pastor when he realizes his personal inadequacy in dealing —name unthheld by request

This article is not to be interpreted as an attempt to evoke sympathy for the ministry. Rather, the reader is given a glimpse of the “inside story "of many pastors, areas that often go unnoticed by the majority ofparishioners.

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