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Th© Messenger EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE
VOL. 22 NO. 26
DEC. 28/84
When Christians Drink by Al Hiebert What happens when Christians drink alcoholic beverages’?
When Christians first begin drinking socially they are usually very careful to do so in moderation. They tend to set their limits and stick to them, at least for some time, often many years. Still, havingstarted to drink socially, they have raised their level of acceptance of alcohol — and logically also of other mild consciousness altering drugs. By example they encourage other Christians and non-Christians in their own homes and communities to raise
their level of acceptance and use of alcohol and other mild drugs. When Christians drink they lower their level of mental alertness. This is poor stewardship of our God-given abilities and opportunities. Our God is worthy of nothing less than our best. When Christians drink they lower their level of physical alertness, particularly reaction time. That is why serious athletes abstain from such impediments. Too many innocent victims are killed and injured on our highways each year by legally sober social drinkers with slightly slowed reac ts
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tion times to tolerate social drinking Chris tians doing more of the same. Surely the legally sober social drinker who kills on the road carries a moral responsibility for his actions borh when he drinks (even in moderation) as well as when he kills. When Christians drink they lower their level of moral inhibitions, thus making it that much easier for them to yield to an un told myriad of temptations, thus betraying their Lord in countless ways in private and in public. They also lower their resistance to taking a second, third and fourth drink which they may not have planned to take when they started drinking. Every pro blem drinker and alcoholic started out as a temperate social drinker. Many stay at that level of consumption for years before they increase their consumption to the point where they recognize their problem. When Christians drink they tend to quench the Spirit’s leading in their lives and ministries; they blunt the effectiveness of their testimony for Christ; they become less effective in spiritual warfare with the enemy of our souls; and they disqualify themselves from ministry to the many pro blem drinkers in our society. Numerous studies show that when problem drinkers seek help the vast majority turn first to church leaders. If these church leaders themselves drink alcoholic beverages, how can they predict that they are not already travelling down the road towards a pro blem with beverage alcohol? When Christians drink they intensify tl eir tendencies to rationalize their behavior in manifold ingenious ways. These include the observation that the Bible nowhere condemns as sin all consumption of alcohol (an argument from silence) but that it only condemns drunkenness (note, however, “Wine is a mocker,’’ Prov. 20:1). They also observe that wine is viewed as a symbol of joy, that Paul commended the medicinal use of wine for Timothy (1 Tim. 5;23), and that even our Lord miraculous-
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ly provided fermented wine for a wedding celebration. In such rationalizations they tend to neglect the significant differences between Biblical times and the present. For exam ple, they overlook the fact that Palestinian water in Biblical times was generally quite putrid (they saved water in cisterns given to bacterial growth) whereas we have clean, safe water and today many non alcoholic beverages are readily available. Secondly, fruit drinks could not be kept very long from fermenting in tim ,s before efficient refrigeration whereas now they can. Thirdly, the alcoholic beverages consum ed in Biblical times were naturally fermented and undistilled, hence carrying a much lower proportion of alcoholic con tent than almost any consumed today. Fourthly, ancient civilized cultures routine ly diluted their undistilled naturally fermented beverages and despised as bar barian and uncouth any who drank the un distilled beverages undiluted, i.e., civilized people of Biblical times would have despis ed as “barbarian” most of today’s Chris tian “temperate” or “moderate” or “social” drinkers. Fifthly, the level of alcoholic consump tion that may be tolerated as prudent for disciples of our Lord in a culture where people walk and ride on donkeys or horsedrawn carts may be quite different from that acceptable where people drive cars that do not voluntarily veer to avoid obstacles or know the way home on their own. Studies show that even very moderate drinkers show a three to four times greater risk of having an auto acci dent compared to non-drinkers. Surely such an increase in risk of injury and death carries moral responsibility. Our technology today is simply too significant ly different today from what it was in Biblical times. Sixthly, medical science to day certainly makes available a vastly im proved roster of remedies for various ailments beyond the ancient panecea of “a little wine for thy stomach.” The list of major differences could be expanded greatly. In the seventh place, we are much more
VAZhen Christians drink they
lower their level of moral inhibi tions, thus making it that much easier for them to yield to an untold myriad of temptations, thus betraying their Lord in countless ways in private and in public. PAGE 2
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The self-righteous Pharisaical Christian may never become a problem drinker or an alcoholic . , . And yet his tolerant attitudes and practices concerning social drinking may encourage others in his own family, church or community to adopt similar tolerant at titudes and practices, which may later be further liberalized as these others are pulled further down the slippery slide of increas ed quantities and frequencies of alcoholic consumption. affluent today than people were in Biblical times so that we have more money to spend on beverage alcohol than they did. Also we have much more leisure time than they did so that the opportunity for increased con sumption is further compounded for us. The differences between Biblical times and ours are far too many and far too significant to argue so naively that what may have been acceptable then is therefore acceptable now for the prudent committed disciples of our Lord. In our time we thankfully have abundantly more alter native non-alcoholic beverages available to us than they did. In short, “responsible drinking” may have been quite pragmatically possible in Biblical times but it is surely not possible today. The rationalization that each of us has a right to do as we choose in our own homes sounds so plausible in our enlightened modern culture with its stress on personal and civil rights. The Christian, however, bears a commission as a personal am bassador of the King of kings and Lord of lords. As such he is wise if he voluntarily lays aside his claim to exercise various rights which the state may recognize or
grant. In the area of rights especially, the Chris tian needs to echo with Paul, “All things are lawful, but not all things are expedient; all things are lawful, but not all things edify” (1 Cor. 10:23). When Christians drink in the privacy of their own homes, they should in all honesty defend the “right” of other Christians to do the same — some of whom will then become “pro blem drinkers,” some of whom will then become alcoholics, some of whom will then kill and/or maim themselves and/or others on the highway, some of whom will then destroy their marriages and/or their children through the use of alcohol, etc., etc. — the list could continue almost endlessly. Have these “mature, strong, temperate” Christian private drinkers no moral responsibility for their part in in fluencing others in the direction of such unambiguously disastrous consequences? Are such moderate Christian drinkers real ly choosing “expedient, edifying” behavior? Who really is the wise, enlighten ed one in this situation? The self-righteous pharisaical Christian
may never become a problem drinker or an alcoholic; he may never encounter marital or parental difficulties brought on by his careful use of alcohol; he may never have an accident on the road, at work or at home that is in any way affected by his own moderate use of alcohol, etc., etc. And yet his tolerant attitudes and practices concer ning social drinking may encourage others in his own family, church or community to adopt similar tolerant attitudes and prac tices, which may later be further liberaliz ed as these others are pulled further down the slippery slide of increased quantities and frequencies of alcoholic consumption. Even if none of the “temperate” drinkers’ friends increase their alcoholic consump tion, how can he be sure that none of them will fall victim to the innumerable tragedies that all too frequently befall even “temperate” drinkers? “Temperate” drinking Christians find it easy to rationalize that for Christians the use of beverage alcohol is “a question of conscience” by which they mean that no Christian has the right to tell another Christian what his convictions and behaviors concerning beverage alcohol ought to be. This rationalization is another subtle assimilation of the “open-minded, tolerant,” liberal, pluralist values so per vasively promoted in our western cultures. A similar argument is used to defend the “pro-choice” (i.e. , pro-abortion) position. But in the body of Christ all Christians are members of one another, responsible to “reprove, rebuke, exhort (each other) with great patience and instruction” (II Tim. 4:2). As the early church preacher, Chrysostom, argued, would not the eye upon seeing a poisonous scorpion in the path ahead warn the foot to avoid the danger? In the body of Christ we are our brother’s keeper. When Christian brethren assimilate the attitudes and practices of the world regar ding beverage alcohol it is clearly inap propriate to defend that assimilation by ap pealing to the supposed autonomous rights of sovereign individual conscience choices such as the world prizes. When Christians begin to think and act like the world more and more regarding beverage alcohol, they too will suffer more and more of the tragedy and pain that beverage alcohol has
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already far too abundantly brought on our society in our times. When Christians drink they find it easy to ignore the implications and applications to their drinking of a whole series of Biblical prudential ethical principles; • Wise Christians avoid anything that .slows them down in their spiritual race (Heb. 12:1; 1 Cor. 9:24-27), such as beverage alcohol tends to do. • Wise Christians choose activities that contribute in some profitable way to the overall purposes which God has for our lives; they also avoid activities that may be “lawful” but that are not useful or “expe dient” (1 Cor. 6:12) which today probably should include beverage alcohol consumption. • Christians are to be controlled by the Holy Spirit, not by alcohol — to any extent (1 Cor. 6:12b. Eph. 5:18). • Christians are to be examples to others of how we are to race toward our goal of conformity to the image of Christ (1 Cor. 8:1-13. 10:23, 15:1-3; Rom. 14:13-23). Un fortunately drinking Christians all too thoughtlessly trip up their stumbling fellow runners in this race. • Christians are to witness to the unsav ed by our actions and attitudes as well as by our talk (1 Cor. 9:19-22. 10:27-29; Col. 4:5). But non-Christians tend to view drink ing Christians as being “just like everyone else,” regardless of the gospel story they may or may not tell. Such an abuse of Christian liberty is inappropriate to our commitments to spread the gospel. • As Christians we need to be actively building up our fellow Christians (1 Cor. 10:23; Rom. 14:19). Christians who liberalize their attitudes and behaviors con cerning beverage alcohol usually do the opposite. God wants us to glorify Him by becom ing like Him (Rom. 8:29. 15:5-9; 1 Cor. 6:20, 10:31). Beverage alcohol steers us in the opposite direction. • Christians are to be “little-Christs,” followers of Christ, imitators of Christ (1 John 2:6; Eph. 5:1; 1 Pet. 2:21). Beverage alcohol, as it is available and used today, pushes our behavior in the opposite direction. • As Christians we are not to be conform ed to this Satanically run world (Rom. 12:2). This includes our attitudes and behaviors regarding beverage alcohol. • Christians are to treat their bodies as God’s temple (1 Cor. 6:19) which argues against the use of alcohol which dehydrates brain cells and causes damage to a host of other bodily organs depending on the amount consumed. • Since beverage alcohol is rated as the third largest health problem and the
foremost social problem in North America, drinking Christians are clearly not avoiding the appearance of evil as required in 1 Thess. 5:22. • Beverage alcohol tends to stimulate its own lust for increased consumption. Drink ing Christians thus are clearly not fleeing from such lusts as God’s Word instructs (II Tim. 2:22). • Beverage alcohol consumption is both the cause and the result of much strife. But Christians are called to live at peace with others (Rom. 12:18). • The Bible contains some 637 references to drinking and drunkenness (e.g.. Lev. 10:9; Prov. 20:1; Isa. 5:22; Num. 6:3; Luke 12:19), more than all references to lying, stealing or sexual immorality combined. Today beverage alcohol is an even greater problem than it was in Biblical times. 'When Christians drink they close their eyes to many Biblical warnings concerning the dangers they thus heap to themselves. When Christians drink alcoholic beverages on rare occasions some good results may be produced as was more often the case in Bible times when the alcoholic content was much different and other medicines were unavailable. But the situa tion today is such that the vast majority of the results of beverage alcohol consump tion are evil. In the present circumstance Spirit-controlled disciples of our Lord clearly are wise to avoid the use of beverage alcohol.
Mr. Al Hiebert is the academic dean at the Winnipeg Bible Col lege, Otterburne Man. Al is also a member ot the EMC Social Con cerns Committee. The Hieberts attend Kleefeld E.M.Church
Review The Holy Spirit in the New Testament David Evert. Herald Press. Reviewed by John Koop, Box 1518, Vanderhoof. B.C. My first impression was that this book is comprehensive and not to be skimmed! The subject material is interesting and as a bonus it has notes on related Biblical data. The book is written in three parts: 1) The Promise of the Spirit. 2) The Coming of the Spirit, 3) The Spirit in the Life of the Believer.
Each part is divided into chapters and the ' chapters into subject headings. The first part deals with promises of the Ho ly Spirit; the author recognizes that the Spirit works in different ways. He says. “We should not reject or question the claims of devout followers of Christ who have had a significant second or third profound experience since their conversion. Nevertheless, one searches in vain in the New Testament for a descrip tion of a second work of grace" (page 45). In the second part of the book. “The Com ing of the Spirit." the writer gives a good ex planation of the “Pentecost” event, but warns us. “It is hermeneutically improper to insist, as some do. that all believers must experience what the 120 experienced” (p.ll4). He deals with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Samaritans and Gentiles and says. "The book of Acts is not a handbook on Christian initia tion. The book illustrates rather the freedom with which the Spirit works" (p. 121). The author clearly differentiates between “baptism" and “filling" of the Holy Spirit and reminds us. “No one in the New Testament ever claims that he or she is full of the Holy Spirit; it is always a testimony that others give” Ip. 129). Dr. Evert emphasizes the ministry of the Spirit in missions. He says of the tongues at Pentecost. “The fact that then all heard the tongues in their mother tongues was another sign to the church that it must take the gospel to all nations in their own language" (p. 157). In the last part of the book. “The Spirit in the Life of the Believers." he writes about Paul’s emphasis on the Holy Spirit, quoting E.W. Hunt. “The doctrine of the Spirit is one of the salient doctrines of Paul's theology: in deed, some would argue that it was the core of it” (p. 168). In regards to preaching, the book states. "It is of utmost significance . . . that all who proclaim the gospel be reminded that the Spirit is not only the source of all insight into God’s saving truth, but He alone empowers the revealed Word of God' (p. 183). The author stresses the scriptural admoni tion to “walk in the Spirit" and quotes David Watson, "All Word and no fruit, we dry up, all Spirit and no Word we blow up. both Word and Spirit, we grow up" (p. 225). The book deals with ecstatic speech as well as "sighs too deep for words" and allows for valid tongues in the church but cautions against emphasizing one above the other. He recognizes the gifts of the Spirit but reminds the reader to be careful about interpreting the gifts too narrowly. Allow for both spiritual and natural gifts to be of the Spirit. There are notes on each chapter and a list (five pages) of scripture references. This book is a welcome addition to the Bi ble student's library on the subject of the Ho ly Spirit.
THE MESSENGER is published every other week by The Evangelical Mennonite Conference, Board of Education and Publication, Box t268. Stein bach. Manitoba, ROA 2A0. Second Class Mail; Registration Number 0591. Undeliverable copies, change of address and new subscriptions should be mailed to the above address. The Messenger is a member of Associated Church Press and Meetinghouse.
DECEMBER 28, 1984
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Missions PARACl’AY HEALTH FOR ALL Health is Weal I h Health is wealth, says an old proverb. No one likes to be sick. Everyone would like to enjoy good health. World Health Organization projects “Health for all by the Year 2000.” What contribution can Chris tian health care ministries offer toward that goal? The mission hospitals or clinics certainly make their contribution, but tak ing health care beyond the walls of the mis sion hospital may provide a more complete answer in attaining that goal. Santa Teresa, the Indian settlement in East Paraguay, is developing a community based health program as a partner in the church planting work. In a community based health program a local person is chosen by the community to be trained to understand and teach prevention, as well as diagnose and treat common illnesses and minor injuries. This is a strategy whereby people can assume responsibility for their health to a large extent. During my one-year assignment in Paraguay, we will do some further studies of the health needs in Santa Teresa and also in other rural areas where EMC mis sions is involved in East Paraguay. Based upon the results of these studies, we will look at what kind of health program might best meet those health needs. With God’s enabling we can respond effectively and compassionately to this challenge. Could you join us in prayer as we go about this assignment? Doris Friesen Paraguay
Van Needed The Board of Missions is in need of the use of a warm van from January 21 to January 30. A missionary conference is being planned for the Mount Salem Church, Aylmer, Ont., during that week and the van is needed to transport missionaries (a distance of about 2500 miles, round trip). For more information contact Ben Friesen at the Conference Office, (204) 326-6401.
Mission Grams Nicaragua: • "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few." The EMC in Nicaragua desperately needs national workers. Communities like Los Panamaces. Las Lajas, San Jose. El Caribe. La Uva and Yano Grande don't have spiritual leadership and some don’t even have a Chris tian witness in them due to lack of workers. "Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field." • Pray for Jairo Arce, pastor of the Morazan church, who is getting married to Ditra on December 2. May their ministry be more com plete as they form a Christian home together and continue work in the church together. Peter, Louise and Kevin Joe! Hiebert.
Canada: "This fall has been a busy time for me. At the Mission Office we do a variety of jobs which includes sending the Best Book Club lessons to the^many boys and girls who at tended camp and vacation Bible school. How encouraging to see many lessons being return ed for correcting from boys and girls who at tended the camp 1 was at this summer, plus others whom I had the privilege of teaching in VBS." "Fall also brought with it a change of loca tion for me as I moved from Munroe Avenue to an apartment on Valhalla Drive. I am grateful for family and friends who gave of their time to assist in the move. Although my new apartment may be a bit smaller, there is always a warm welcome for you to come for a visit. “Fall also brought the joy of having Freida with me for a short time. She left on November 12th for Toronto. Chicago and then on to Barquisimeto. Venezuela. This will be our first Christmas of not being together since 1970. "Fall also brought with it some changes. After a joint effort in conducting a VBS in St. Adolphe this past summer, the Rosenort E.M. Church will carry on the ministry there. At present I am teaching a Youth Class at the Salem M.B. Church. "Thank you so much for your vital support in prayer and financial support. What a joy to meet some of you at the Missionary Con ferences I was involved in during October. I value your continued support as I desire to be a channel through which God will bring more into His kingdom." Agnes Friesen CSSM Winnipeg. Man.
(Excerpted from a Christmas newsletter ) PAGE 4
Return to Mexico
Peter and Louise Hiebert returned to Mexico on January 1, 1985. They will be engaged In leadership training and evangelism.
MENNONITE DISASTER Service (MDS) All-Unit annual meetings will be held February 8 and 9 in Archbold. Ohio at the Central Mennonite Church and the Four-Century Voca tional Technical School there. The meetings will include reports from the MDS regions and units as well as presenta tions by guest speakers Judy Wander of Wilton. Conn., a recipient of MDS assistance: Robert Vessey of Washington, D.C., national director of disaster services for American Red Cross; and Rev. Elmer Jantzi of Irwin, Ohio, Mennonitc evangelist and teacher at Rosedale Bible Institute. The public is invited to attend all sessions. Region II MDS and the Western Ohio Unit will co-host the meetings that begin the morning of February 8 and conclude noon the follow ing day. AN UNEXPECTED staff shortage at the Mennonite Brethren hospital at Kajiji. southwestern Zaire, has prompted Mennonite Brethren Missions/Services to launch a recruitment drive for doctors to serve in short stints of service. Dr. Harry Janzen of Win nipeg. Man., was the first of a string of volunteers to go, arriving in Zaire in Nov. 21 to spend a month at the hospital. Several physicians still need to be recruited for June. July and August of next summer. A general surgeon for January is also urgently being sought.
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Messenger News
Living The Giving Way
CARONPORT’SS INTRODUCING
Isaac and Maria Hamm, 1919
Fred Friesen Keynote Speaker Issac and Maria Hamm, April 27, 1984
65 Years “Be glad in the Lord and rejoice” (Psalm 32:11a). Through all our years together We’ve never walked alone, For with a great sustaining love God takes care of His own.
Let us walk in the light of His love. On April 22, 1984, Isaac and Maria Hamm of MacGregor, Manitoba celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. On December 2, this year, Mr. Hamm passed away, (see obituary this issue) Ed.
WANTED An associate pastor is needed for the Steinbach Evangelical Mennoiiite Church, 422 Main Street. There are approximately 500 members. Primary areas of responsibility would be in outreach, evangelism and visitation. Some em phasis in music and Christian education would be an asset. Send application to: c/o Henry Fast Church Board Chairman Bo.x 387 Steinbach, Man. ROA 2A0
DECEMBER 28, 1984
YOU NEED NOT be around Fred Friesen for too long before you realize that he loves Jesus Christ. He also enjoys life and the challenges it presents. His deepest desire is to live and serve faithfully the One who died and rose so that we might have life. Having served for five years as pastor of the Rosenort Fellowship Chapel, three years as a pioneer missionary in Nicaragua and one year in Mexico gives Fred an ex cellent background for his present involve ment as Professor of Missions at Mountain View Bible College, Didsbury. Alberta. Besides teaching, he works as Dean of Students at the College. Fred graduated from the Steinbach Bi ble Institute in 1963 and later earned a Bachelor of Religious Education at Win nipeg Bible College. He then went on to receive his Master of Missiology at the Canadian Bible College, Regina Saskatchewan. Among Fred’s most prized possessions are his wife Doris and their family - two sons, two daughters and their husbands. As a family, they love to go mountain hik ing, bicycling, camping and fishing. We are excited about having Fred come and work with us as our keynote speaker at Abundant Springs ’85. Come and meet Fred personally and allow God to minister to you through him. He knows what "Liv ing the Giving Way” is like. We encourage you to pray for Fred even now as he prepares to come and speak.
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Three deacons were ordained at the Rosenort EMC on August 19 (see Messenger, September 7, 1984). Left to right: Martha and Art Dueck, Mary and Melvin Friesen, Annie and Ed Kroeker.
Baptismal service at Heron on October 14, 1984. Left to right: Pastor Richard Klassen, Angele Fournier, Abigail Thiessen, Michelle Thiessen, Eric Thiessen (took up membership in our church).
Mr. and Mrs. Jack Funk, Valerie Dyck and Gordon Giesbrecht were baptized at the Wymark E M.Church on November 25. 1984. Helen Giesbrecht was accepted by transfer of membership. Left to right: Pastor John Reimer, Jack Funk, Joy Funk, Valerie Dyck, Gordon Giesbrecht, Helena Giesbrecht.
Baptized at Landmark on Dec. 2 were the following: Standing: Heidi Plett, Scott VJarkentine, Ernest Penner and Lloyd Plett. Seated with pastor Edwin Plett on right is Mark Penner.
ETHIOPIA DRIVE SURPASSES TARGET
SWAN RIVER — The target was $200 - the final amount was over $1600. And in the pro cess. the Community Bible Fellowship and its Christian day school discovered a new dimen sion to ‘giving in the Christmas spirit.' It began just ove two weeks before the end of the school term when the teachers at the school challenged the 45 students to co operate in raising $200 for Ethiopian famine relief. The enthusiasm of the students quick ly spread to people in the church and to the town of Swan River. A variety of methods, including a starva tion by the senior grades, were used to raise the money. The starvation not only realized over $800. but was a dramatic way of remin ding students and sponsors that our abunPAGE 6
dance of food must not be taken for granted. The concept of "giving up" proved to be the key to the success of the food drive. Students voluntarily gave up receiving the usual candy bag. usually distributed at the Christmas Sunday School program. A cash equivalent of $125 was given to the project. The school board normally takes the teachers and their mates out for Christmas dinner. This year, a pot-luck supper was held and a cash equivalent was given to the relief program. And the students in the school were en couraged to make a Christmas greeting card and consider giving the cash-equivalent of a Christmas gift to the relief project. Donations from the public and a $300 col lection at the Christmas program brought the
grand total to $1625. The money will be given to the MCC for the purchase of food. Each dollar donated to the MCC is matched 3-for-l by the Canadian International Development Agency. — David Nadeau
SALE Saturday, January 12, 1983 10:00 a.m.
Contents of the old Resthaven Nursing Home on Kroeker Avenue in Steinbach including chairs,J kitchen equipment, freezers etc. THE MESSENGER
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ISAAC HAMM 1898-1984
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“Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: yea. saith the Spirit, that thep ma^' rest from their labours: and their ujorfcs do follow them" (Revelation 14:13). It has pleased our loving heavenly Father to call home my beloved husband to be forever with Him in glory. His passing occur red on Sunday evening at 5:30 p.m.. December 2. 1984. at the hospital in MacGregor. Manitoba. The cause of death was a severe stroke suffered at 10 p.m. Friday evening. November 30. 1984. My husband was born in the village of Edenburg, east of Gretna, Manitoba, on December 31, 1898. At the turn of the cen tury he moved with his parents to what is now Didsbury. Alberta. Nine years later they mov ed to Herbert. Saskatchewan and in 1911 to a homestead north of Gouldtown. Saskat chewan. In 1918 he was baptized upon his confession of faith in Jesus Christ by Bishop David Doerksen of the Sommerfelder Mennonitc Church. On April 27. 1919 we were married at Gouldtown, Saskatchewan by Bishop David Doerksen. We began our life together farming north of Gouldtown. In the fall of 1920 we moved to Manitoba and worked on the farm of my sister and brother-in-law, the John Hildebrandts of Gretna. In 1922 he became a barber in Altona. Manitoba, a profession which he continued for eight years. At the end of June 1930 we moved back to Gouldtown, Sask, when the railroad was being built, to open a general store and post office. Later, we also began a trucking business, hauling cream, livestock and produce. The fall of 1942 saw us on the move again back to Manitoba where we had purchased a farm at MacGregor. After twenty years on the farm we retired and moved to our present home in the town of MacGregor. My husband was a hard worker and generally enjoyed good health except for fre quent problems with severe headaches. Around 1927 he developed tuberculosis which, however, with medical help cleared up in a relatively short period of time. In June
DECEMBER 28, 1984
1981 he suffered a stroke which severely af fected his throat and speech. He recuperated quite rapidly and was able to carry on a nor mal life until March 8. 1982 when a more severe stroke left him partially paralyzed from which he never totally recovered. However, his mind was not affected and he retained a good memory. On Friday, November 30, 1984 a very severe stroke left him un conscious until the time of his passing Sun day afternoon. Together we shared joys and sorrows for 65 years. 7 months and 5 days. He acquired an age of 85 years. 11 months and 2 days. The Lord entrusted us. through birth, with six children, three boys and three girls. My hus band was a sincere Christian and practiced his faith not only on Sunday but also through the week. He was not afraid to witness of his faith and stand up for his convictions. For some years he was disappointed that he could not enter into a more direct service for his Lord and Master. However, he later found consola tion in the fact that all of his three sons were ordained into the ministry. He constantly car ried a real burden for the salvation and spiritual welfare of the grandchildren, fre quently praying audibly for them. He kept up a good relationship with them, sometimes challenging them on who could eat the most ice cream before retiring at night. Of course, he always won and. naturally, he supplied the ice cream. We joined the local Evangelical Mennonite Church as members when it was organized in June 1952. He was predeceased by his parents, Jacob and Sara (Sawatzky) Hamm; six brothers: Jacob. Peter. Henry. Barney. Abe and George; four sisters: Helen. (Mrs. Jacob Pen ner). Tina (Mrs. Peter Schellenberg). Sadie (Mrs. Henry Schellenberg) and Agatha (Mrs. Cornie Neufeld), and one grand daughter, Valerie Joyce Rempel. Left to mourn his passing are I, his wife. Maria (nee Schellenberg), son Elmer Henry and wife Lena of Swift Current. Sask.; daughter Orlanda Anna and husband Ben Rempel of MacGregor. Man.; daughter Henrietta Margarite and husband Ben Friesen of Steinbach, Man.; son Otto Jacob and wife Margaret of Winkler, Man.; son Menno Ray mond and wife Elvina of LaCrete. Alberta; and daughter Elvira Marion of MacGregor, Man.: one sister, Anna Hamm, of Swift Cur rent: 21 grandchildren; 25 great grandchildren and many relatives and friends. Though we feel the loss of our loved one we do not sorrow as such that have no hope but are looking forward to a glad reunion in heaven. We join with the song writer, “Sleep on, beloved, sleep and take thy rest. Lay down thy head upon the Savior's breast. We loved thee well, but Jesus loved thee best. Sleep on. good night, good night." We wish to thank all our dear friends who prayed for us. brought food, offered help in preparation for the memorial service and sent cards of condolences. Mrs. Maria Hamm and family
MRS. JOHN D. BARKMAN 1895-1984
“And I heard a voice from heaven, saying. Write. Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on: Yes. says the Spirit, that thep map rest from their labours, for their deeds follow with them" (Rev. 14:13). It pleased God to call our beloved mother. Susanna Berg Koop Barkman. to her new home in heaven on October 14, 1984. Mother was born about four miles nor thwest of Steinbach (Neuenlage) on April 25. 1895. Her parents were pioneer farmers. As a young woman she worked the fields with horses and did the farm chores as was re quired of farmer’s daughters. Mother accepted Christ as her Saviour early and at the age of 18 was baptized and joined the Kleingemeinde Church (now the EMC). About 272 years later, on December 5. 1915. she married our father, John D. Barkman. The young couple resided in several places in the Steinbach area and then moved to Saskatchewan where Dad was employed as an engineer for Reimer Trading of Saskatoon and later in the same capacity for Burns and Co. of Prince Albert. In 1932 they returned to Manitoba and bought land in Landmark from Mother’s parents, the John B. Koops, and set up in far ming and a garage-blacksmith business. Mother, being an avid gardener, wasted no time in planting a substantial orchard and a large vegetable garden, and it seemed that flowers bloomed everywhere. Hoeing weeds and keeping this vast operation cultivated when it was hot and sultry and we were be ing attacked by swarms of bloodthirsty mos quitoes. was a task we as children did not relish. Mother, undaunted, called in the reserves - the grandchildren - to help. Remuneration went with the task. We all learned to work hard and at the same time earn pocket money. Arbeit macht das Leben suess (work makes life enjoyable) was an oftrepeated encouragement. The parents decided to retire in 1965 because of age and failing health. They sold
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the farm and moved to Steinbach. Mother had several big operations in her lifetime. A throat operation affected her ability to speak and breathe. This was also a factor in her last week as she laboured in breathing. Mother was a woman of prayer; she believ ed in it and practiced it. She prayed much for missionaries, for her family and neighbours. She wrote letters and sent cards to mis sionaries and when they were home on furlough she had them in for fellowship and meals. She supported them with gifts of money as well. She liked to have people visit her and she visited when she could. In later years when Mother could no longer attend worship services in church, the Ger man radio church services. Bible studies in her home and visits from ministers and laypeople were of great help to her in the building and maintaining of her faith in the Lord. Mother had a deep concern for her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. She prayed for each one's salvation and that each one would follow the Lord in obedience. She knew each one's birthdate and what each one was engag ed in. Sister Ella has been a constant help to her. Her nurse's training became even more valuable as Mother grew older and weaker. The dedication and commitment to helping Mother was exceptional. The Lord keeps the books and will reward in His own time. The children in the family are Annie and her husband Abram (Landmark); Sarah, who preceded her in infancy: Ella (Steinbach; Mary and husband Milton (Arborg): Edwin and wife Tina (Landmark); Harvey and wife Avril (Landmark); John and Mary (Regina). There were two foster children. Eric and Corine Stranger (Winnipeg). Mother has 36 grand children. 52 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by two sisters, Anna. Mrs. Abram C. Penner (Blumenort): and Helena. Mrs. Peter F. Martens (Kola). Mother was preceded in death by daughter Sarah and our father in 1974. as well as by two sisters and three brothers: Sara. Mrs. Peter F. Plett; Kathrine. Mrs. Peter G. Barkman; John. Peter and Jacob. On Friday. September 28. 1984, at the re quest of the doctor. Mother entered Bethesda Hospital in Steinbach for blood tests. She was having much arthritic pain in her arms and legs. It was becoming impossible for her to get around in her walker at home. On Sunday. October 7. she went into shock and we thought the end was near. However, her strong heart rallied and by Friday she was speaking and understanding quite well again. Because of difficult breathing the doctor recommended a blood transfusion. The transfusion was done with her permission Saturday evening. A few hours later she went into unconsciousness and breathed her last at about 4:45 a.m. Sunday morning, absent from the body but present with the Lord, ac cording to the Apostle Paul in 11 Corinthians
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5:8. What a glorious victory! During her last days she prayed that the Lord would come and take her home to Himself. She asked others to pray for her too. The pain and shortness of breath were agoniz ing but her faith remained strong. God heard and answered. Although we grieve deeply we would not wish her back to the pain and the suffering she endured, but we look forward to meeting her up there. May God grant that none of us as family will fail to reach heaven. The Children
KATHERINE UNGER LOEWEN 1905 - 1984
Our Mother. Mrs. Katherine Loewen, pass ed away on December 23. 1984 at the Per sonal Care Home in Steinbach. Manitoba. She was born on April 14. 1905 in the Blumenhof district. Her parents were John and Maria Linger. Mother and Dad were married in 1923, living together for 56 years. Dad passed away in 1979, leaving her widowed for 5W years. They farmed the old homestead in Twin Creek for 50 years. In 1973 they moved to Steinbach. At the age of 17. Mother trusted the Lord in believing faith and was baptized. As a young wife and mother she enjoyed good health and was very much involved in raising her family and supporting Dad on the farm. She was active in the local ladies' organizations, assisting post war refugees as well as serving in the Bethesda Hospital Ladies Aid. She was quite creative and has left us many momentos of her talents for crafts and needlework. As the years went by her health began to fail. No longer was she able to give of herself as she had in the past. Later in life she enjoyed travelling with Dad when her health permitted. She accompanied him on one of his trips to Brazil, as well as taking many shorter ones. Mother leaves to cherish her memory her children: Helen of Steinbach: Henry and Ed na Loewen, of Brazil; Martha and Herb Pen ner. of Edmonton. Alberta; Annie and Jake Plett. of High River, Alberta; Wes and Lor raine Loewen, of Winnipeg; Dora and Frank Reimer, of Sherwood Park, Alberta: Elaine and Rudy Reimer, of High River. Alberta; 19 grandchildren. 13 great-grandchildren, 2 brothers, and 6 sisters. She was predeceased by her husband Jac. F. Loewen in 1979. One daughter. Elma, in 1947 . one daughter-in-law. Betty in 1957, and one granddaughter. Carol in 1960. The Family
A Tribute to Mother Thank you. Mother, for caring for us and for your love to us. Thank you for teaching us right from wrong and teaching us to say our prayers. Thank you for your compassion
and helpfulness. We remember when the neighbors needed help and you would drop everything at home and go to them. How you would spend some of your busy time in sew ing for the needy, especially after the war. How you would lend a helping hand to the refugees when they came from war torn Europe. When we were young, you would always let us bring home our friends and often this was a crowd. Even after we were married and had our own family, the welcome mat was always out for us. Then years of sickness and trouble came to you. we are sorry we could not do more for you. We tried to help. We loved you and will always remember you for the good you were and meant to us. We could say so much more, but you would understand. We love you and are looking for ward to meeting you at the feet of Jesus. Thank you Lord for a Godly Mother. The Children
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BOWED AND BROKEN?
If you are bowed and broken In sadness and despair; If you are bent and brittle As if beyond repair. .. Then let the Great Physician Heal, and make you whole; And let the Holy Spirit Refill your empty soul. — John R. Dick
Weddings CHOW - KOOP: Mike, son of James and Alice Chow of Vanderhoof. B.C.. was married on August 18. 1984 to Sylvia, daughter of John and Clara Koop of Vanderhoof. B.C. The wedding took place at the Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship with John Koop officiating. The couple is making their home in Vanderhoof.
KURUCZ - KLASSEN: Allan, son of Mrs. Annie Kurucz of Heinsburg. Alta., and Karen, daughter of Ike and Tina Klassen of Vanderhoof. B.C.. were married at the Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship on August 11. 1984. John Koop of Vanderhoof of* ficiated. The couple is making their home in Vanderhoof. HARDER - FRIESEN: Jacob, son of Jacob and Katherine Harder of LaCrete. Alta., and Verna, daughter of Cornie and Tina Friesen of Vanderhoof. B.C.. were married on July 14. 1984. The wed ding took place at the Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship with John Koop of Vanderhoof of ficiating. The couple is making their home in Vanderhoof. JANZEN - KLASSEN: Dan. son of Isaac and Helen Janzen of Bolivia, was married on September 15. 1984 to Ruth, daughter of Dave and Eva Klassen of Vanderhoof. B.C, The wedding took place at the Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship with John Koop and Peter Wiebe, both of Vanderhoof. of ficiating. The couple is residing in Vanderhoof.
THE MESSENGER
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Music for worship, or any purpose, is not an entity in and of itself.
Youth Music - The Need To Express By Reg Reimer Band.” What do the company of such im a definition given me earlier this fall by mensely talented people in our headphones a music professor, music is “any planned, or tend to convince us of? . . . that their talents ananged sound which is made to occur for and expressions make our own pall to in a listening audience.”' By such an all- significance? Maybe, and maybe not. But, in encompassing definition, a variety of sounds all of our heightened awareness, comparisons which are generally thought by you or me to just can’t help but pop up. When that hap be mere noise suddenly will have to take on pens our young people can hardly be blam new importance. And, maybe that’s okay. It ed for wondering about whether the way they just shows, 1 believe, that our exposure to are led to worship and express themselves in music has been of a relatively consistent varie music is relevant. After all, the examples seen resplendent in spotlights seem just a bit more ty and we know what we like to hear. But how suitable is our concept of the ‘com esteemable. Remember that our use of music fortable’ worship music to our individual needs reflects us. The possibility of the idea that service music for self-expression before God? Several obser vations about music in youth circles, which must be fantastc or be endured, is a grave have been with me for some time now, sug one, 1 suggest. If such is the case then we’ve gest that some reminders of what we expect missed the point of this area of expressive gift. King David was a prolific song writer. He from music and what we should be expecting addressed a wide range of emotional ex from ourselves are needed. Music for worship, or any purpose, is not periences. Words like “Enter into His courts an entity in and of itself. It will always be with praise” (Ps. 100) and “Give ear to my prepared and offered for a listening audience words, O Lord” (Ps. 5) came from his heart or participants. And as such, our service music as a reflection of his life struggles and pur poses, in the context of his faith in Almighty reflects us. Where are we now? Well, try this. We suf God. He knew that to utter aloud the joys and fer from something which 1 suggest to you is victories of his Lord, as in the words “My cup the “Let the Pros do it” attitude. This attitude runneth over, surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life” (Ps. is very deeply ingrained in society at large, 23), served as a confession and a witness to and it begins and ends almost indistinguishably. I’ve observed re-enforcement all who heard. Although we recognize David of it in our public schools, where national an as a “pro” of sorts, his example shows something quite common to all believers; thems are heard, not as sung by students, but namely, he encountered his God and then by the convenient service of a cassette expressed himself about it. Psalm 40:1-3 il recording. There is a similar phenomenon occurring lustrates it well, “And He put a new song in with the input from sources of Christian my mouth . . .” (v. 3). We need that outlet media. 1 remember my good peers and me too! in youth group idolizing the stature of some For the young person (or anyone) who sees “Evie-Grant-Taff-Petra- and Key-Vocal his contributions to music as less than signifi cant, David’s understanding should be an en Reg Reimer is a couragement. We don’t need ‘professional’ ik’?” song leader at the musical expression as much as we need Rosenort church. honest spiritual expression, in order to mature He also was music in Christ. “. . .to confess with your mouth director at Abun Jesus as Lord . . .” (Rom. 10;9). So open dant Springs 1983 up a little, your honesty, by displaying atten 1. and again has the tiveness to the spiritual truths found in the ser same position for vice music as a way to give witness to your Abundant Springs faith, which interprets itself into spiritual '85. growth.
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DECEMBER 28, 1984
second concern which relates to the ac cessibility of expression through music for youth lies in the area of the session itself. Why do there appear, from time to time, periods of musical stagnation? Although no easy answers appear to be available, there are several basic premises on which successful youth music must rest. Having earlier established that reception and expression are central to healthful development as Christian youth, the follow ing suggestions for planning of group session music, wherever it occurs, could be helpful: a) Is there a clear and useful idea being transmitted by the song/chant/item? A very basic goal, but one which is un mistakably central. For example, does this ‘warm-up’ song embody that which will allow the group to establish group rapport? Or, does the ‘meditation’ song offer op portunity to do just that? b) Is there another way in which to do the expected? Can we offer our praise to God as a group before the Bible study unique ly by some format which will effectively position the individual ‘one-on-one’ with the truth being recognized, thus impress ing more deeply or expressing more freely? c) Understand that ‘call and response’ are the only two things happening in your ses sion. Place ‘active,’ theme-related music or responsive activity into the session, which will highlight either the call or the response. d) Be sensitive to those individuals who do find singing difficult to ‘get into.’ The use of responsive readings, scripture passages, or proclamations may be helpful for the flow of your session as well as in allowing a more thorough group participation. e) There is no substitute for preparation. Eliminate intenuption from as many sources as possible during your sessions, for example, hand-outs, overhead projec tors, pencils and other ‘supportive’ materials. Rewards for good planning are often seen early. Do, however, be sensitive to worthwhile digressions! Let’s benefit spiritually, socially, and emo tionally from our music! Above all, let’s not forget to give honor and glory back to God!
Footnote; 'Keahey, T. H.; Lecture notes from ‘Musics of the Western World’; School of Music, Univ, of Manitoba. Sept. 10. 1984. PAGE 9
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1984 Messenger Index ARTICLES AND MESSAGES Music in the Evangelical Mennonite Conference, Don Thiessen Jan. 13 The Contemporary Mennonite Family, Jan. 27 Maurice Martin The Marks of a Good Church, Arden Thiessen Feb. 10 Our Visit to Asia and How We Saw It, Feb. 10 John P. Loewen The Glory and Joy of a Good Relationship, Arden Thiessen Feb. 24 It’s Too Soon to Stop Growing, March 9 Arden Thiessen The Life that Pleases God, March 23 Arden Thiessen April 6 My Substitute, L. Marie Enns The Day of the Lord, Arden Thiessen April 6 Your Prayers are too Small, April 20 Warren Wiersbe Doing Business as People of Light, Gerry Selzer May 4 May 4 What is a Wife? Edna Martens The Higher One Goes: The Better the View, LaVema Klippenstein May 4 The Teacher and the One-year-old, May 4 Lucille Reimer Pfeifer The Gospel Suited to Every Culture, Don Jacobs May 18 June 1 The Masquerade Party, Laura Hall When People are not a Couple, Johnny Loewen June 15 If Any of You Have a Dispute With Another June 15 Disabled Persons and the Church, Terry Smith Aug. 10 Confessing Our Hope, Charles Cristano Sept. 7 God’s People Witnessing, Sept. 7 Gilberto Flores Moving from Regret to Restoration, Sept. 21 Erwin Lutzer Oct. 5 Jesus and Peace, Archie Penner So You’re Calling a Pastor, Arden Thiessen and Edwin Friesen Oct. 19
Guidelines for Pastoral Evaluation, Arden Thiessen and Edwin Friesen Nov. 2 Fifty Years (Familienfreund) Dec. 14 A Never-to-be-forgotten Christmas, Margaret Reimer Dec. 14 Dec. 28 When Christians Drink, Al Hiebert
CHURCH NEWS (selected) Jan. 13 Wyinark: Baptismal Service Held Morris; The Way of the Cross Vermilion Bay: Service Held at Jan. 13 Victoria Apartments Arden: Pastoral Couple Installed Jan. 27 Jan. 27 Arabella: 1983 Highlights Birch River: Parent/Child Dedication Jan. 27 Wyinark: Ordination Feb. 10 Feb. 10 Kola: Father-Son Retreat Pleasant Valley: Navigators Course Feb. 10 Being Taught Calgary; Lifestyle Evangelism Feb. 24 Practiced Feb. 24 Steinbach EFC; SBC Sunday Feb. 24 La Crete; New Pastor Welcomed March 9 Kola: New Deacon Couples Elected Anola; Parent/Child Dedication March 9 Held Blumenort; Couples Commissioned for Missionary Service March 9 PAGE 10
Crestview: And the Lord Added to the Church March 23 Prairie Rose; Pastor Re-elected March 23 Rosenor! Fellowship; Combined Communion March 23 Service Held Riverton; Baby Dedication Held April 6 Morweena: MCC Rally Held April 6 Mennville: Young People Present April 6 Worship Service Crestview; Two Deacon Couples April 20 Commissioned Pelly: Spring Meetings Held April 20 MacGregor: Women’s World Day of Prayer April 20 Swan River: Many Experience New Touch of God May 4 Steinbach: Commissioning Service Held May 4 Creighton; Changes May 4 Stratton: New Minister Ordained May 18 Aylmer: Deeper Life Services Appreciated May 18 May 18 Aberdeen: Our Church Can Grow Rosenort: Deacons Elected June 1 Endeavour: Showers of Blessing June 1 Hudson Bay: Program Presented by Visiting Choir June 15 Portage la Prairie; New Members Accepted June 15 Fisher Branch; Religious Survey Done June 15 Braeside: Two Deacons Commissioned June 29 Fort Garry: Construction of New Building Begun June 29 Saskatoon: Church Organized July 13 Burns Lake: Musical Drama Presented July 13 Blumenort: Two Ministers Elected July 13 July 13 Pansy: Women’s Meeting Held Morweena: Pastor Installed July 27 Treesbank: First Family Church Camp Held July 27 Rosenort: Tornadoes Hit Rosenort July 27 Swift Current: Parent/Child Dedication Held Aug. 10 Kleefeld: Pastor Installed Aug. 10 Vanderhoof: Ministers and Deacons Elected Aug. 24 Braeside: In Honour of Sandra Doerksen Aug. 24 Rosenort: Three Deacons Ordained Sept. 7 Kleefeld: Cradle Roll Graduation Held Sept. 7 High Level: Trust God Sept. 21 Prairie Rose: To Ontario, Brazil and Africa Sept. 21 Ridgewood: Recommitments Made Oct. 5 Fisher Branch: Appreciation and Farewell Held Oct. 5 Roseisle: Three Young People Oct. 19 Baptized Vermilion Bay: Farewell Held for Interim Oct. 19 Pastor Portage la Prairie: Church Celebrates 25th Anniversary Nov. 2 Heron: Many Attend Thanksgiving Nov. 2 Supper Nov. 2 Kleefeld: Deacons Ordained Nov. 16 Arden: Growing in Christ Kola: 25th Anniversary Nov. 30 Steinbach EFC: Fall Missionary Nov. 30 Conference Held
Nov. 30 Rest Haven Official Opening High Level: Pastoral Couple Dec. 14 Installed 1 Dec. 14 Vermilion Bay; New Pastor Arrives LaCrete: First Parent-Child Dedication Dec. 14 Service
CHURCH PROFILES Swan River Birch River Kamsack Fellowship Chapel Cote Indian Work Kamsack Drop-in Centre
June 29 July 27 Nov. 30 Nov. 30 Nov. 30
CONVENTIONS AND CONFERENCES Strasbourg, France, Site of XI Mennonite March 23 World Conference April 5 MMHS Annual Meeting Held April 20 Leadership Conference, SBC May 4 AIMM Board Meets in Ontario SBC Graduation May 4 May 18 Ministering to Special Needs July 13 34th Annual EMC Convention Missionary Retreat July 27 July 27 1984 Conference Council Meeting Ladies’ Meeting - Annual July 27 Convention XI Assembly Mennonite World Aug. 24 Conference What Others Said About Mennonite Aug. 24 World Conference Sept. 21 Region 4 Conference Northern Fellowship Churches Meet Oct. 19 Conference Council December Session Dec. 14 EDITORIALS Some Principles of Church Planting, Menno Kroeker Jan. 13 Jan. 27 Pastors The Terrifying Truth: We are Normal, Charles Colson Feb. 10 Feb. 24 Conquering the Enemy March 9 The Sanctity of Life, James Penner March 23 Time - We All Have It April 6 When Trials Come April 20 Needed: A Prophetic Voice May 4 Mother’s Day Some Reasons for Annual Convention May 18 June 1 By the Way Why EMC Missions? Wilbert Friesen June 15 June 29 By the Way July 13 Setting the Captive Free Tentmakers July 13 Who Do People Say that We Are? July 27 David Brubaker XI Assembly Mennonite World Aug. 10 Conference Aug. 24 By the Way Annual Convention Reflections, Ben Friesen Sept. 7 When You Make a Feast, Sept. 21 Garry Hiller Oct. 5 The Real World Oct. 19 There is also Good News Hurrah for Handicaps, Nov. 2 Menno Kroeker Nov. 16 More Good News Do You Know What’s Happening to Your Nov. 30 Sunday School? Linda Cannell Dec. 14 Good Tidings of Great Joy
THE MESSENGER
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Dec. 28
LETTERS Delightfully Surprised, Abe Reddekopp Jan. 13 Opportunities for Service, Anne Heal Feb. 10 Sound Advice, Henry Friesen Feb. 24 Human Wisdom Limited, Ray Friesen April 6 Special Thanks, Jeff Plett April 6 Concerned, Garry Friesen April 20 Finds Difficulty with Term “Christian Evolutionist,” Wayne Sawatzky May 4 Thinks Messenger Has Failed, C. P. Friesen May 4 Thank You for Messenger, Fred Peters June 1 Another Side, Catherine Stewart-Kroeker June 15 Gospel Needs to be Made Relevant, A. H. Enns June 15 Appreciated Article, Randy Hiebert June 29 Where is the Holy Kiss? H. R. Reimer Aug. 10 Couple Celebrates 65th Anniversary, Mary Reimer Aug. 10 Straight Talk Informative, Larry Sauvegeot Aug. 10 Sharing a Burden and Concern, David Hiebert Aug. 24 To Upper Volta, Paul Thiessen Aug. 24 Holy Living, Tim Reimer Sept. 21 Was Blessed, Harry Neufeld Sept. 21 Straight Talk Response, Lori Klassen Nov. 16 A Concern, H. R. Reimer Dec. 14 Shocked! Mr. and Mrs. Frank Brandt Dec. 14 Good and Evil, Henry Dyck Dec. 14
MCC MCC Annual Meeting, Tofield, Alta. Feb. 10 Moderators and Secretaries Meeting in Tofield Feb. 24 Nicaraguan Government is Moderate and Acceptable Says Veteran Mennonite Missionary March 9 MDS Meets in Southern California March 9 Does Grain Get to the Hungry? May 4 Mennonite Food Aid Reaches Ethiopia Nov. 16
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MISSIONS Nicaragua: Don Plett Jan. 13 Mexico: Dave and Susie Eidse Jan. 13 Japan: Mary Koop Feb. 10 Venezuela: Elmer and Tina Barkman Feb. 10 Paraguay: Dietrich and Tina Lepp Feb. 10 Paraguay: Luella Loewen Feb. 10 Pakistan: Helen Kroeker Feb. 10 Nigeria: Rachel Bartel Feb. 24 Mount Salem, Ont. Feb. 24 Canada: Elmer and Lena Hamm March 9 Nigeria: Elvira Warkentin March 9 Canada: Dave Dueck 1March 23 Canada: Rod Greenacre (submitted by Dick Friesen) March 23 Spain: Evelyn Plett March 23 Edinburg, Texas, Ernie Koop April 6 Paraguay: David and Judith Schmidt April 6 South Africa: Raymond Mitchell April 6 (submitted by Joe Reimer) April 20 Paraguay: Sarah Martens April 20 El Paso, Texas: Doris Thiessen April 20 Panama: Alvira Friesen April 20 Brazil: Elizabeth Koop
DECEMBER 28, 1984
May 4 Nigeria: Rachel Bartel May 18 Peru: Verna Doerksen May 18 Mexico: Ricardo Alire May 18 Mexico: Dora Friesen May 18 Belize: Katherine Penner Durham, Ont.: Abe Koop May 18 Ecuador: Flo Friesen June 1 June 1 Brazil: Laura Sharp Pakistan: Ed and Joy Loewen June 1 Edmonton: Mrs. Delores Barkman June 1 Keesee Koose: Frank and Mary Braun June 15 El Paso: Marv and Lorraine Thiessen June 15 Austria: Rosanne-Poffenroth June 15 Germany: Albert Martens June 15 Paraguay: June 29 Ernie and Mary Ann Loewen June 29 Mexico: Felipe and Cindy Cruz July 13 Griswold: Dave and Helen Plett July 13 Paraguay: Dave Schmidt July 27 Peru: Verna Doerksen July 27 California: Esther Penner July 27 Germany: Mary Brandt EMC Missions Study Tour: July 27 Randy Hiebert ■ Aug. 10 Kamsack: John Cosens Aug. 10 Edmonton: Jake Unrau Aug. 10 Pakistan: Alfrieda Fast Aug. 10 Mexico: Maria Koop Aug. 24 France: Paul Thiessen Sept. 7 Germany: Gladwin and Jean Plett Sept. 7 Brazil: Marvin Thiessen Sept. 7 Paraguay: Sara Loeppky Sept. 7 Paraguay: Linda Penner Sept. 7 Kenya: Wayne Herrod Sept. 21 Mali: Evelyn Barkman Sept. 21 Nigeria: Elvira Warkentin Oct. 5 Peru: Submitted by Verna DoerksenI Oct. 5 Germany: Sally Dueck Oct. 19 Mexico: Jake and Marie Plett Oct. 19 Brazil: Elizabeth Koop Nov. 2 Paraguay: Bill and Anne Buhler Nov. 2 Paraguay: Etna Plett Papua New Guinea: Nov. 2 Rod and Carol Kroeker Nov. 16 RGBI Release: Ernie Koop Nov. 16 Venezuela: Amanda Barkman Nov. 30 Brazil: Mary Doerksen Dec. 14 Mexico: Eva Dyck Paraguay: Doris Friesen Dec. 28 MISSIONARY DEPARTURES Flo Friesen, Ecuador Alvira Friesen, Panama Verna Doerksen, Peru Dave and Judy Schmidt, Paraguay Linda Penner, Paraguay Marvin and Lorraine Thiessen, El Paso Ellen Brell, Pakistan Sara Loeppky, Paraguay Etna Plett, Paraguay Alvin and Mary Doerksen, Brazil Abe and Dee Koop, Brazil Amanda Barkman, Venezuela Rod and Carol Kroeker, Papua New Guinea Grace Thiessen, Arizona Bill and Anne Buhler, Paraguay Eva Dyck, Mexico
OBITUARIES Jacob D. Rempel, Dec. 27, 1983 David F. Penner, Jan. 23, 1984 Mary Lemky, Jan. 24, 1984 Mrs. Margaret Kornelsen, March 7, 1984
Jan. 13 Jan. 27 Jan. 27 Feb. 10 Feb. 10
Apr. 20 May 18 June 21 June 21 Aug. 10 Aug. 10 Aug. 10 Aug. 10 Aug. 10 Aug. 30 Sept. 7
Jan. 13 March 9 March 9
March 23
May 4 Justina Peters, Feb. 17, 1984 May 4 Anna Lescheid, April 9, 1984 Mrs. Peter P. Reimer, May 18 April 11, 1984 June 1 Henry P. Brandt, April 30, 1984 Mary Reimer, May 29, 1984 June 29 June 29 Herman G. Friesen, June 1, 1984 Norma Thiessen, June 20, 1984 July 13 July 27 Alice Brandt, June 24, 1984 July n Bill Koop, June 19, 1984 Aug. 10 Marie Pankratz, July 16, 1984 Cornelius D. Olfert, July 20, 1984 Aug. 10 Aug. 24 Mrs. Mary Dueck, July 15, 1984 Sept. 7 Jacqueline Koop, July 20, 1984 Kenton Schroeder, Sept. 15, 1984 Sept. 21 Oct. 19 Mrs. Peter A. Plett, Sept. 16, 1984 Oct. 19 Gordon Termeer, Sept. 28, 1984 Nov. 2 John D. Kroeker, Oct. 23, 1984 Nov. 30 Peter U. Brandt, Oct. 28, 1984 Nov. 30 Frank P. Reimer, Oct. 26, 1984 Nov. 30 Peter C. L. Penner, Nov. 13, 1984 Dec. 28 Isaac Hamm, Dec. 2, 1984 Mrs. John D. Barkman, Dec. 28 Oct. 14, 1984 Mrs. Katherine Unger Loewen, Dec. 28 Dec. 23, 1984 POEMS Feb. 10 Then Ask the Lord, John R. Dick Rowing on Troubled Waters, March 19 J. M. Fehr March 23 Trust God, L. Marie Enns April 6 Paradox, Clint Toews Easter Morning, April 6 Martha Snell Nicholson April 6 Redemption, Leo Reimer Spring Resurrection, Violet Wright April 20 May 4 To Mother, Anne Campbell Tribute to a Mother, Adina Kornelson May 4 June 1 The Stronghold, Alvira Friesen Lord, Make My Life a Prayer, June 1 Laura Siemens July 13 No One Like Him, T. J. Hiebert What Heaven Means to Me, Aug. 10 Bettie Kehler Prairie Lighthouse, Aug. 24 Mrs. Edwin J. Wright Sept. 21 God Understands, John R. Dick The Uncut Gem, Eleanor Lee Gustaw Dec. 14
STRAIGHT TALK Sport, Dennis Hiebert Sport, Dennis Hiebert Sport, Dennis Hiebert The World of Television, Jon Bonk What’s Wrong with Television, Jon Bonk The Christian and Television, Jon Bonk
Jan. 27 Feb. 10 Feb. 24 Oct. 5 Oct. 19
Nov. 2
YOUTH IN TOUCH Jan. 27 Our Visit to Banff ’83, Ron Plett Cynicism: Spiritual Cannibalism, Feb. 24 Edwin Plett March 23 Cynicism (continued), Edwin Plett Merits of Bible School/College April 20 Attendance,. Stan Hamm Getting to Know Jesus Christ Better, May 18 Vern Neustaeter People Lost and Dying Without Christ, June 29 Julia Hamm Peer Pressure, Sheldon Giesbrecht Aug. 24 Sept. 21 Summer Service Reports A Guideline for Choosing Christian Music, Al Menconi Oct. 19 A Guideline for Choosing Christian Music, Al Menconi Nov. 30 Youth Music, Reg Reimer Dec. 28
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From the Editor The Departing of a Loved One In 1984 “The Messenger” carried 27 obituaries. They involved persons whose life span stretched all the way from 4 years (Jac queline Koop) to 95 years (Mrs. Peter P. Reimer). Most of these obituaries carried only a few essential details plus maybe some brief highlights of the deceased's life. I suppose. No doubt in most cases much, much more could have been said. I again feel this is so true of the 3 obituaries carried in this issue. Pages, maybe books, could be written on the life and influence of these departed loved ones. Some of the 27 whose names we carried in 1984 of course had a comparitively short life span. Others labored through the toil and heat of the day as it were. But Paul tells us that then (when the Lord comes). “. . . shall every man have praise of God.” (1 Cor. 4:5b) The hymn writer expresses it well with “what a day. glorious day that will be.” And though earthly life has been cut off. influence goes on and on. It is so true that a life of faith continues to make its impact even after death, as the writer to the Hebrews says of Abel. “. . . through faith he continued to speak after his death.” (Hebrews 11:4b. NEB) This. I’m sure, will also be the experience of those who were in timately involved or associated with these departed loved ones. Their lives, short or long, will undoubtedly continue to have a bearing on lives still here on earth. So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. (Psalm 90:12) could well be our prayer in times like these.
TWO SIGNIFICANT MOVES
I believe the decision at the December Conference Council session (Messenger, Dec. 14/84) to join the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada (EFC) is a good one. We have a history of being very wary of in any way mingling or fraternizing with other church groups. Our fathers saw a cer tain danger in this and I do not want to fault them at this time. If we judge them in the light of present circumstances and cur rent conditions we do them a disservice. We may today be guil ty of moves which to our grandchildren will seem backward. No doubt, some small (to us now) accommodations would have allowed some good people to stay with us and work with us in the Conference. However, if they erred on the side of discretion, according to our interpretation, we today maybe are sometimes guilty of err'ing on the side of liberality. However, looking at our exclusiveness of the past in the light of today it does seem to have been overly cautious in the areas of recognizing other Christians as fellow believers. But again, it is easy to say that from my vantage point today. One of the stated purposes of the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada is to provide at local, provincial and national levels for the teaching, expression and experience of the truth of the oneness of the body of Christ. Since the oneness of the body was a high priority in the prayer of Jesus Christ in John 17. 1 believe no one would have a quarrel with this purpose (John 17:21-23).
1 don’t think this necessarily means that we unite with other churches, although one should not rule this out where it is feasible, but rather that we pull together in certain areas of mutual concern. These might be in a further stated purpose of the EFC which reads: To provide mutual encouragement and enrichment through the broader fellowship of the Body of pastors. Christian leaders and individuals. 1 think as Christians and churches we need all the encouragement and challenge we can get. This body also wants to discover and cultivate evangelical leadership and evangelical voices within Canada for ministry to the churches at large. We as a small Conference can benefit by this expertise and our interaction with other Christians. With what do we involve ourselves if we join this group? EFC. it was pointed out by one Conference Council member present, is not a decision-making body like we are in a Con ference. Another commented that we should become involved and help set direction. A valid comment of concern had to do with one of EFC’s stated purposes re expression to government. Then we should also endorse MCC’s voice on Parliament Hill, said one. However, taking everything into consideration. I think we have done well in deciding to seek to work together with this body. This is not a one-time commitment but may be ter minated or renewed on an annual basis. Membership fees are five cents per member which comes to about $265.00 for the EMC. As a member Conference we can also place one member on their Council. The EFC publishes an attractive quarterly magazine Faith Alive through which they seek to be “Canada’s Voice of Evangelicals.” We have copies here at the office should anyone be interested. Subscription price is $10.00 per year. Bulk subscription rate of ten or more is $5.00 per year. It has a cir culation of around 15,000. The address for Faith Alive is Box 8800, Station B. Willowdale, Ont. M2K 2R6. Another action, as noted in the December 14 Messenger under Conference Council report, was placing a member on the advisory board of the Winnipeg Theological Seminary (WTS), Otterburne, Man. In light of the number of EMC students who have studied here it seems to make sense to accept this request. The func tions of this body are to act as a sounding board and also for feedback. This Advisory Council is not a decision-making body, but WTS asks for denominational input about seminary concerns. Our Conference Council minutes where this was discussed also note that because of the large EMC enrollment at the seminary level and also the opportunity to further our Anabaptist heritage we should go in with this. Since the motion carried we can now have a member on this body. Since we have gone in with the above two proposals we have added a bit to our responsibilities which I think is good. It will also mean that we become more alert and aware of what is going on in these two institutions and contribute as much as we can. Only then will our association be meaningful.
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PAGE 12
THE MESSENGER
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