The Messenger November 15, 1985

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The Messenger 1/^ A1 ^/1c=M^ln^llTc r'nMCPDPMPP EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE

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NOV. 15/8: 15/85 VOL 9*^ 23 ND NO. 99 22 ^^^NOV. \/m

If you find yourself in a predica­ ment like Jonah, you may do one of two things: You may in pride hang on to or grapple for whatever threads of hope the evil one dangles before your blinded eyes. Or you may, like Jonah, swallow your pride and cry to God, confess­ ing that you are in trouble, confess­ ing that you are lost, without hope, and slipping away into darkness.

Jonah Prays (second in a series)

Jonah 2

By Glen Koop

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tions, that is, if all else fails. And I think onah, the man of God, had problems. Christians today sometimes say the same He planned to do things that were contrary thing when it comes to prayer. If my plans to Yahweh’s wishes. God called him to the don’t work, they don’t pan out, then I’ll Assyrian city of Nineveh, but Jonah, with pray. Anyway that was the way Jonah a hearing problem and stiff-neckedness, responded. His plans had failed badly. fled via land and sea to Tarshish. Cir­ Inside that gastronomic cavern, together cumstances were right for Jonah’s plans. with many other fishy things (specifically He had the problem of living by feeling and mentioned is “sea weed’’), Jonah wailed to by his emotions. God. He could do little else. Jonah also planned to sleep during the course of the journey. Jonah likely had plans to keep mum about the reason for his world cruise. But when things did not work Jonah, being swallowed out the way he had anticipated, he had to by the fish, admits that tell the sailors who he was, why he was on he is at the end of his board, and who his God was. And then he told them in order to calm the ever-worsening sea they would have to escapade. He had toss him overboard. This physically healthy problems. man of God had the problem of wanting to die. He wanted out. He wanted to get away from it all one way or another. And, sad No doubt Jonah learned a few things, to say, God sometimes allows certain in­ maybe better said, he remembered some dividuals to take their own life. things. There were a few things he need­ But in the case of Jonah God did not ed to see regarding self. There were also allow him to drown in the Mediterranean a few things he needed to know, have con­ Sea. God had prepared another sea journey firmed, regarding God. for Jonah. And as Jonah’s feet and hands To be at the end of the road and not know were tickling the ribs of this seaworthy it, or not admit it, is, to say the least, vessel. He prayed. tragic. I am reminded of the story in A Labels on products tell us to read direc- Drink at Joel’s Place. PAGE 2

“One day the village blacksmith was hammering a glowing red horseshoe. He happened to hit it a little awry and it fell into the dirt near the door. Just about that time Uncle Zeke came in and saw the horseshoe which had just lost its reduced glow, but was still very hot. Zeke reached down and picked up the horseshoe. Of course, he immediately threw it down. “What’s the matter, Zeke, is it hot?” laughed a group of onlookers. “Zeke raised his pride-filled self to his highest height and answered, ‘No, it just don’t take me long to look at a horseshoe” (pp. 45, 46). People who don’t admit their problems are often burned and the laughingstock of the town. Jonah, being swallowed by the fish, ad­ mits that he is at the end of his escapade. He had problems. He now admits that he is in distress (trouble, affliction, anguish). The root of this word means “something that confines, restricts, and hampers.” And one can understand that Jonah, confined inside the fish, was in anguish. Not only is Jonah in trouble and anguish, he speaks of himself as being in a dark, dismal place, totally cut off from (]od. This idea finds fur­ ther support in verse 4 where Jonah speaks of being cast out of God’s presence. The question he asks gives the same idea. “How shall I ever look again on your Temple?” (Jer. B.). How shall Jonah ever look again on the presence of God? There is no hope, humanly speaking, for Jonah to enter into God’s presence. And the man of God seems to recognize this. Next he makes the comment that he has gone to the very bottom. He has gone to the “roots of the mountains” or base of the mountains. He has gone to the land (coun­ tries) under the earth (Jer. B.) or to the underworld (Leslie Allen) and here the doors closed behind him forever. He has gone to the land of no return. Jonah, as seen in these expressions, sees no hope for himself. He is lost. Life is slipping away from him. He is los­ ing consciousness; this takes place prior to death. If you find yourself in a predicament like Jonah, you may do one of two things: You may in pride hang on to or grapple for whatever threads of hope the evil one dangles before your blinded eyes. Or you may, like Jonah, swallow your pride and cry to God, confessing that you are in trou­ ble, confessing that you can’t untangle the mess you have gotten into, confessing that you are lost, without hope, and slipping away into darkness. But don’t stop here. Had Jonah stopped in his crying to God with mere thoughts of his own predicament, he most likely would have died like Saul in the Old Testament or Judas in the New Testament. Jonah also saw God. How did he picture THE MESSENGER

Gati-hepher. II Kings 14:25b informs us that Jonah was of Gath-hepher. (Photo by the author.)

God? Many a .person near to death’s door eSK ^^^ss^drio ;i;Zt

being^^sovereim can work out His will for His good pleasure. And it is the latter that

Jonah sees in God. This is very similar to the situation in which Joseph found himself at the young age of 17.^ His brothers wanted to rid him and answered him (v. 2). No, I don’t themselves of the arrogant dreamer and so think they sold him to the Ishmeehtes (Genesis think Jonah Jonah’’ss prayer prayer was was answered answered imimmediately. I think he prayed as he went 37:25-28). down the drink (drain), and his prayer was was -------------------------------------------------------more intense as he slipped down the “slobslob­ . . ■ qnite Of h'lS bery , bery’”’ throat, throat, and and most most intense intense as as he he rolled rolled J O 0 a R, Hl bpilt! around inside the stomach of the fish. But tryinQ tO StOp GOCJ’S he had to endure that awful experience for three days and nights before God answered. Some of you may think your God-given commitments are keeping you cooped up, restricted in your social life, but if you continue tsilhfully ” ’“t fL^ter they meet in Egypt and Joseph says Will one day be grateful to God tor the in I to^them Later they meer in jrotrwho gyp r here, j ‘Ttwasnot sent me sight you gained. Ask God to to help you but God” (45:8). persevere He kwaiHng for'you picture perseveie. ne Indeed God, being sovereign, does work Him as the Almighty, the one who is near, out Ills will, Lpi.mwsI* 13 his although man tries,, iin ’-his listening, and giving you peace about your freedom to hinder the Almighty. And man place in the home as a mother, or your may also lose self in trying to hinder the place of employment as a father or your work of God. service as a single jierson, and so forth. However, Jonah, in spite of his trying to Secondly, Jonah saw God as being stop God’s work, receives grace to live and sovereign. The sailors threw Jonah over­ acknowledges God at work in him. In our boardC^^d^threw (1:5), but inhi'JoverboarrSSn chapter 2:3 Jonah states’t ™s we too; like Jonah, must see the EaSJ lieSk ThTsTealtyls a Hebrew sickness of our children, spouse, or self, the

that in those, what were thought to be dy­ ing moments, God was near. He heard, and gave peace. saw God as the one who heard Jbnah'too

work, receives grace to live an(d acknowle(dges God at work in him.

Furthermore, Jonah recognizes that peo1 worship^dols ..... forsaking the ple^who true God (2:8) or, as the Jer. B. puts it, they “forfeit the grace that was theirs” or “forfeit the grace that would be theirs” (NIV) And in contrast to those who worship idols and forsake God, Jonah speaks out with thanksgiving. How could he be grateful inside that “odd conveyance”? His is a prayer of thanksgiving for deliverance from a watery grave (p. 26, L. C. Allen). Furthermore, he brings the only sacrifice a man swallowed by a fish can bring: a voice of praise which re-echoes in the hollows of the fish. And with that the pro­ phet renews his commitment to God. “What I have vowed I will pay.” With this message to the fish. The fish obediently and doubtless, gladly, spews out this indian«t.ihle digestible obiect. object Then Then it it swims swims off off with with aa flick of its talk Its distinguished mission was accomplished (Leslie Allen). Let us learn from Jonah’s prayer 1) to put away pride and confess our rebellious attitude, 2) to ask God to help us get out of our messes, 3) to see God as He is listening, hearing our cries of anguish 4) that God is sovereign, 5) to praise God for the salvation, the deliverance. He has already given, 6) to once again commit ourselves to God and the God-gken commitment 7

'XTm:™,‘VSdX‘G.5aisowiii God’s sovereign purpose. By this Jonah is not absolving the men of wrongdoing when they tossed him overboard. Mankind is always responsible for his actions. But God,

which cause us to give up, but as being aiiuwcu MJ God uvu afor our maturing.------allowed by Paul in' H Cor. talks about going through these things so we can comfort others.

deliver us from the awesome circumsUnces we find ourselves im But we must be faithful and leave the how and when up to Him. PAGE 3

NOVEMBER 1, 1985

About 10 per cent of the farmers in Canada and the United States have been bankrupted in the past seven years. Another 15 to 20 per cent are in dire finan­ cial straits, unlikely to survive another year without some form of government assistance. It is the worst farming depression since the 1930s, and it pervades North America on both sides of the Canada-U.S. border.

Perspectives on the farm crisis — a Canada-U.S. comparison by Jim Romahn anadian farmers are somewhat shielded by the fact that the U.S. dollar has appreciated in value and by stringent import controls on poultry and dairy products. U.S. farmers, on the other hand, are offered more direct assistance from the federal treasury. Yet on balance, statistics indicate the failure rate is running about equal. Aside from the obvious differences of climate and soils, the biggest difference bet­ ween farming in the U.S. and Canada is government policies. Although they differ, they are surprisingly similar in their objectives. Both nations have an abundance of resources for farming, including prime farm land, water, skilled people willing to make huge sacrifices to be farmers, money and technology. Given this abundance of resources, whenever there is the faintest glim­ mer of profitability in agriculture, the desire of thousands of people to become farmers (or to become farmers on a larger scale), im­ mediately expresses itself in the form of ad­ ditional investments and production. Faced with this challenge of abundance and resulting marginal returns, politicians have tried to help farmers. In the U.S. the main ap­ proach has been to improve farm incomes by paying direct subsidies, deficiency payments and by buying, storing and exporting surplus commodities. In Canada the economy is less diverse and industrialized and politicians have therefore had less money to spend, so they have relied more on import restrictions and domestic supply management. Canada has no school lunch program, but donates more food to overseas aid. On both sides of the border, governments have undertaken almost all of the research, development and education related to agriculture and farming and have offered substantial subsidies to lower the cost of bor­ rowing to buy land. At the moment, the key subsidy in the U.S. is for corn and soybean producers. The result is that more corn and soybeans are produc­ ed than would otherwise be the case, more is held in inventory and more is exported into

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world markets. The effect of high production, high inventories and low prices ripples across all other crops and into the livestock, poultry and dairy sectors of the U.S. farming economy. The U.S. federal government policy respecting corn and soybeans has also had a powerful influence on land prices. In Canada the key subsidies are for grain transportation from the Prairies to export and to the dairy industry. The grain transportation subsidy was hidden in the past because it was a fixed rate that could not increase; now it’s out in the open in the form of a subsidy from the federal treasury to the railways of more than $600 million a year. It has the effect of enabling grain farmers to set a higher price for their grain, which must compete with sellers from the U.S. and other countries around the world. The Canadian subsidy to the dairy industry is about $300 million a year. It’s $6.03 a hectolitre, paid directly to dairy farmers, but only for the amount of milk required for the domestic market. If farmers produce more, they have to sell it at depressed world market prices. To signal that message back to farmers, marketing boards charge levies against every gallon of surplus milk dairy farmers ship to market. Every farmer has a quota, so he knows exactly how much milk will draw the full domestic price, plus subsidy, and how much will attract the crippling-high ($38 per hectolitre) export levy. Having accepted these restrictions on production, dairy farmers have in return been granted protection against imports, which might otherwise undermine their production restraints.

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his general approach has been occupied by chicken, egg and turkey industries, but without benefit of direct government subsidies. In the poultry industry, that has meant that imports from the U.S. have been strictly restrained by quota so farmers can set prices high enough to cover their production costs for the volume that’s needed for the Cana-

dian market, and no more. In the U.S. similar production restraints apply in the so-called land set asides, or milk levies, but these are voluntary. Farmers can choose to participate and benefit from the sub­ sidies, or stay out and take whatever the market offers. In Canada, the controls are mandatory and anybody who wants a piece of the dairy, chicken, egg or turkey business has to buy a quota, which is the right to market a product at the protected price. The effect of U.S. subsidies has been to drive up the price of land. The effect of Canadian policies has been to drive up the cost of quota for supply management commodities, and of land for other commodities. Quota is now the biggest cost of getting into the dairy and poultry industries. In Ontario milk quota costs about $7,000 per cow and egg quota about $35 per hen. Why is the farming situation so much worse today? The main reason was the 1972 beginning of a new boom in grain exports. That’s when Russia decided to buy massive quantities of feed and food grains. Russia and China were buying from Canada long before they became the American farmers’ best clients, so the effects of their buying were felt in Canada for a few years before the huge impact that came in 1972 and has been dubbed the Great Russian Grain Robbery. Not only did Russia buy massive amounts of grain that year, driving prices to three and four times pre-purchase levels, but she has also stayed in the market and grain prices were sustained at a new high for several years. Resources poured into North American agriculture - new capital, machinery and farmers. Production poured back out. With the exception of the 1983 harvest, which was reduced by drought and the U.S. Paymentin-Kind (PIK) program. North America’s farmers produced for more food than they could sell at a price adequate to cover their new and higher production costs. Government subsidies made up some, but not all, of the margin. THE MESSENGER

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.nd that’s where North American agriculture is today, stuck with an abundance of resources tied up in producing more food for which the world is unable or unwilling to pay a price adequate to cover costs. There’s plenty of demand for poor and hungry peo­ ple, but they lack resources to pay the going price. That situation is unlikely to improve in the next decade or two. That leaves two basic options - massive government subsidies to provide farmers just enough income to keep them farming, or a massive lowering of pro­ duction costs, either by bankrupting thousands of existing farmers and driving their land prices lower, or by finding and im­ plementing cost-saving technology. Faced with this difficult situation, farmers have asked politicians for help. They have asked for: - Strong action against imports, including U.S. pleas for duties and quotas against Canadian pork, potatoes, beef and raspberries. - Subsidies to lower the cost of borrowing money. - Moratoriums on foreclosures and bankruptcies. - Export subsidies. - Direct subsidies, massive government pur­ chases of surplus commodities and price sup­ port policies. All of these policies would likely make the situation worse in the longer run because all would attract, or hold, more resources in agriculture. The U.S. difficulties are made worse by the high value of the dollar, which makes it difficult to export and pulls imports into the country. If the Canadian and U.S. dollars return to par, there will be massive adjustments to be made in Canada’s fruit, vegetable, grain, beef and pork industries. The suffering will be most painful for those who bought into the business while the U.S. dollar was relatively high, and therefore paid premium prices for their land and livestock.

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ne final word about credit: In Canada the main sources of farm credit have been the federal government’s Farm Credit Corpora­ tion, five chartered banks and family members, mainly parents. In the U.S. more money is made available from private lending institutions which enjoy some form of back­ ing from government policy. In both coun­ tries, farm debt mounted sharply in the wake of post-1972 grain prices and inflating land values. In the U.S., as farmers have experienced trouble paying back their loans, some finan­ cial institutions have failed., That has created turmoil for all other clients of those institutions. So far nothing similar has happened to Cana­ dian farmers. But the Canadian system is under heavy pressure. The Farm Credit Corporation is car­ rying about $5 billion in loans on its books and about 20 per cent of its clients are unable to pay interest and principal. It’s the other FCC clients who must make up for that loss in the form of higher interest rates. As for the Cana­ dian banks, their lending portfolios are so diverse that they have so far chosen to write off their farm lending losses and are in no im­ minent danger of collapse. They have taken even larger losses in overseas lending and in loans to the oil and gas industry in Canada, yet continue to be profitable. In the U.S. many banks depend so heavily on farmers that they face collapse. Banks that are members of the farm credit system have $75 billion outstan­ ding and estimate that 20 per cent of those loans are in trouble. It’s likely that federal governments in both Canada and the U.S. will provide more backing to the farm credit system, either as guarantees on farm loans or as subsidies on interest rates, or both. Again, the main impact of those policies will be to hold more resources in agriculture - both money and people - than would otherwise be the case.

In summary, then, the farming sector of both the Canadian and U.S. economies is undergoing the worst depression since the 1930s. About 10 per cent of the farmers have been bankrupted in the past seven years, with the suffering beginning with beef feedlot operators in the late 1970s and extending now to pork and cash crop farmers. The situa­ tion is so bad today that another 15 to 20 per cent of the farmers in both countries could be wiped out within the next 12 months. Governments in both countries have adopted policies aimed at improving farm incomes, but in both cases the policies have also tended to increase production costs and to price North American food out of the reach of the vast majority of the world’s hungry consumers. Farmers on both sides of the border are press­ ing for subsidies and policies which would tend to reinforce the dilemma, and politicians are likely to respond to the lobbies with sub­ sidies and trade policies which will bolster farm revenues and therefore hold resources in agriculture. The longer-term prospects for farmers therefore range from bleak to dismal. Those who quit this year will have to build new lives and careers. Those who survive face the prospect of a lifetime of hard work, high risks and low returns, broken only occasional­ ly by short spurts of higher commodity prices.

Coming Events November 22, 23 - MCC Manitoba an­ nual meeting at the Sargent Ave. Mennonite Church, Winnipeg. November 29 - EMC Missions Auxiliary meeting, Steinbach E.M. Church, 7:30 p.m. January 4 - Mennonite Historical Socie­ ty of Canada annual meeting at the Men­ nonite Brethren Bible College, Winnipeg. Banquet speaker: Mr. Victor Davies. May 30-June 1 - EMC Ministerial/Missionary Retreat at Canadian Bible College, Regina, Sask.

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 mailed to the above address. The Messenger is a member of Meetinghouse. All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor D. K. Schellenberg, Box 1268, Steinbach, Manitoba, ROA 2A0.

NOVEMBER 1, 1985

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I In Transit By Leona Dueck Penner

My Luggage and I IN THREE WEEKS time, we leave Swaziland, Already, the house is beginning to have that empty, sterile feeling which results from the getting-everything-ready-to-move syndrome. The pictures are still on the walls, but our precious books are gone - all twentyfive boxes of them, packed and posted to a new life in Canada, Without them, we feel lost. And, in the kitchen, a minor miracle has occurred. Not only are the spaces behind, around, under the stove and fridge, scrupulously clean, but the cupboard shelves are finally sporting a brand new layer of mactac after a four-year wait. My husband thinks all this extra cleaning and re-decorating ac­ tivity is madness. Why cover the shelves now, when we’re leaving? And the new tenants are only arriving three months after we leave. Everything will be dirty again by then. What is the point of it? Like many of you, 1 can’t argue my case from a logical point of view, but 1 know what I have to do when I move, if 1 want peace of mind. So the cleaning continues . . . Meanwhile, in an upstairs bedroom, one or two battered-up suitcases have been rescued from their oblivion in dusty cupboards and are now rapidly being filled with odds and ends which are to be sent “home.” I wonder, will they make it one more time? Veterans of seven trips across the Atlantic, they are real­ ly showing their age. The blue metal one for instance — a Zeller’s special, way back in 1970. Still holding out in spite of fierce dents and bruises, deep gouges and pried-off corners, which mar its body, bearing mute testimony that life has not been easy. And yet, the stickers — Zambia Airways, Royal Swazi, KLM, Air Canada — show at least, that life has not been boring. I give it an affectionate pat. The sturdy metal sides should hold together one more

Airplane glue? Who knows? Bought secondhand, its past remains a mystery. Luckily, the stains don’t weaken the body and, with one or two bands of my husband’s double-duty, nylon reinforcing tape (bought in Canada, with great foresight), it too should make it one more time. That is my hope, at any rate , , . As I continue my packing, catching my hands on the jagged metal edges now and then, I keep wondering whether we should, in fact, have bought some new luggage before we left Canada, But at the time, as now, our Mennonite thrift and “more-or-less” con­ sciences, really wouldn’t allow for that. Why junk something which could be fixed with nylon reinforcing tape? Just for the sake. of looks? Or age? A‘ bit ' ■ of' wear and■ tear?" Surely, that’s no reason. Everybody knows that being used and useful demands some sacrifice of surface glow, a glow which fades at any rate, as times goes by. It’s really the underlying strength which counts . . . A comforting thought for a fortyish, North American female, who comes from a culture where everyone is terrified of aging. As I sit back to think about what that means to me, I catch a glimpse of myself in the fulllength mirror behind the suitcases . . . Yes, I too have dents and bruises, a few unsightly bulges here and there, increasing greyness at the temples and, if you look closely, some faint wrinkles on the forehead and around the eyes. Clearly, my face and body testify that time has passed, that I have lived, have sometimes been of use and hopefully, that missing youthful glow has been replaced by something deeper. Something strong enough to last a lifetime? I wonder . . . The suitcases are full at last. I close the lid, listen for the click of the one remaining latch, then call my husband to bring the tape. As I wait for him, I think, with amusement, that we are well matched, my luggage and I. Both show signs of wear, have travelled long together, and in the process, have achieved that “co-ordinated,” “go-together” look so much prized by the fashion conscious. All this, without spending a cent, except for an occa­ sional roll of nylon reinforcing tape. Who needs 2nd Debut or Samsonite lug­ gage? We’ll travel home “in style,” my lug­ gage and I!

The Penners have now been in this coun­ try since July of this year. They reside at 914 Somerville Ave., Winnipeg, Man, R3T 1B3.

time . .

But what about the red-checkered, American-style suitcase? It is huge and bold, looks much better from a distance, but can it make another trip? A closer look reveals one latch clasp and two strap buckles are missing and when you open it up, the pink satin in­ sides gape at you with startling stains of various shapes and sizes . . . What was spill­ ed, 1 wonder? Water? Perfume? Shampoo? PAGE 6

Letters

a large percentage of AIDS victims are homosexuals, heterosexuals (active with multiple partners) and drug users who share needles. Time magazine, August 12, 1985, in an article, “AIDS: A Growing Threat,” gave numbers to it. Seventy-eight percent of AIDS victims (USA) are homosexual or bisexual, 15% are intravenous drug users and some are heterosexuals, (Note: Heterosexuals are clearly at risk of acquiring the disease from sexual contact,” p, 47,) That means at least 93% of the problem is lifestyle-related! Centuries ago the Apostle Paul wrote, “The body is not meant for sexual immorality, but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body” (1 Cor. 6:13). “Flee from sexual immorality” (I Cor, 6:18), “, , . Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders , , , will inherit the kingdom of God” (I Cor, 6:9-10), We, the liberated generation, threw these teachings aside as just a sulking old God try­ ing to keep us from our destined fun and fulfillment. Now it becomes obvious that God’s command was one of wisdom and compassion, designed to keep us from harm and self-destruction! Why do we not admit that God’s ways are best? They will keep us from untold hurt and disaster. If we will return to His ways. His lifestyle, we will acquire a possibility of 93% of the remedy we so desperately need, Dave Wiebe

Brandon, Man. MESSENGER BRINGS RESULTS

I often get comments on how people en­ joy reading the Messenger. New people to our group always seem eager to read it and to become more acquainted with who we are. Today a family phoned us and wanted to meet us because they had read the Messenger at their neighbour’s house. They moved here recently and are looking for a good church. Their contact with Mennonites in the past has been very positive. We praise the Lord for such open doors to ministry. Dave Wiebe Kircaldy Heights Fellowship 19 Bison Way Brandon, Man. R7A 6R9 Note; Dave Wiebe is a pastor of a new EMC church planting effort in Brandon, Manitoba, which goes by the name Kircaldy Heights Fellowship. CONTRIBUTORS:

Glen Koop is professor of Old Testament at the Steinbach Bible College, Steinbach. Jim Romahn is agriculture reporter for the Kitchener Waterloo Record, Kitchener, Ont.

AIDS - THERE IS A REMEDY

Helen Kornelsen (Ridgewood) teaches at King’s College in Belize. COVER:

AIDS does not have to destroy our genera­ tion! Last night (October 15, 1985) on the CBC “Journal,” it was again made clear that

An early snowfall in October created this scene on Southwood Drive in Steinbach. By the editor. THE MESSENGER

Missions

Most work is

EMC Centre in Mexico THE EMC CENTRE in Santo Tomas. Chihuahua. Mexico is taking shape. The con­ struction site is located on a hill overlooking the village of San Jose. It is surrounded by apple orchards and cultivated croplands. Presently three buildings are under construc­ tion. To the west of the site lies the twofold purpose building with a workshop and living quarters for a watchman. In the northwest corner stands the kitchen/dining hall that will also be used for an auditorium. Next to it is

Juan and Alicia Castillo and daughter Gina.

the dormitory which is large enough to ac­ commodate nine couples. The proposed pur­ pose of the Center is that of training nationals by way of seminars, conferences and short Bi­ ble courses. The long-term goal is that it will develop into a Bible school. The EMC Missions Auxiliary is providing $50,000 for this project. An update on this project will be given at the annual Missions Auxiliary meeting on November 29, 7:30 p.m., in the Steinbach E.M. Church.

r ill* Dormitory for couples. Kitchen and dining hall on left. (See also photo on p, 8) 5;

BELIZE

Preparing Young People to Face the World College - a Training Center King’s College is a real practical training center for young Christian students as well as staff members. For many it has been the turngg^^g jgsus as Lord and Saviour. The four years 1 spent at King's College as a student served to mold my life and prepare me to face reality in this world in which we live. The dedicated teachers catered to the in­ tellectual and the spiritual growth of the students. Our faith in God was strengthened. Moreover, opportunities were provided for young Christians who wished to work fervent­ ly for Him. The small duties and respon­ sibilities entrusted to us prepared us students to face the world of work effectively. Now as a teacher at King’s College my responsibility to serve God is much greater. Now it is my turn to prepare students to face the outside world with a set of goals in mind. It is my obligation to turn students from sin and from the hands of Satan, the destroyer of young people’s lives. Besides, 1 feel respon­ sible for the spiritual growth of these young men and ladies who will be the future leaders of our church and country. 1 thank God for calling me to serve Him in this ministry at King’s College. Juan Castillo

Note; EMC missionary. Helen Kornelsen. teaches at King’s College. She sent this testimony.

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Friend Workshop and watchman’s living quarters at the EMC Centre in Mexico.

Mission Grams Nicaragua Don and Liz Plett with their children were involved in an accident in Costa Rica on November 1. Don’s brother Lawrence and his wife Marge were with them at the time. The vehicle, a double-cab truck, was severely damaged. Don experienced the most serious injuries. He spent a week in the hospital. Latest reports are that recovery is coming along fine. Don returned to Costa Rica on November 14 for a medical check­ up and clearing the insurance claim. Burkina Faso Paul and Lois Thiessen report that the rains this year were exceptionally good and that this resulted in a good harvest. This will alleviate the food shortage in the country. Praise the Lord!

Mexico - Camp 77 Dave and Susie Eidse report that the brethren in the church are taking turns in bringing mesages Sunday mornings. Dave is still waiting for his resident papers. Pray with the Eidses concerning this matter. Belize Helen Kornelsen reports that the enrollment at King’s College where she teaches has increased from 65 to 81. She requests prayer regarding the spiritual needs of the students.

Paraguay Luella Loewen writes that her time at La Esperanza is "packed full.” She is involv­ ed in a teaching ministry to women. Pray with her that the Holy Spirit would use the Word that is being taught to help the women in their spiritual pilgrimage. Mexico Jake and Bertha Kroeker, living in El Paso, recently visited Rio Grande Bible In­ stitute. They visited Mary Loewen, who is studying Spanish in preparation for further ministry with EMC in Latin America. A highlight was their visit with Rodolfo, a church leader from Juarez, who is taking Bible training at RGBI in preparation for further ministry in the church in Mexico.

Paraguay Ernie and Mary Ann Loewen report on the safe arrival of the ZP-30 tour group. The Loewens are busy preparing to leave for furlough in Canada. Harry and Tina Neufeld arrived in the Chaco on October 26 to take on the management responsibilities at ZP-30.

Mexico Peter and Mary Thiessen of the Morris EMC are in Mexico with New Tribes Mis­ sion under the EMC Board of Missions sponsorship. The Thiessens are hosting the NTM guesthouse in Chihuahua City and fellowship in the EMC Church. PAGE 8

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n agony you hung upon a roughly hewn tree, In deep sorrow you bled and died for me.

In despair your friends were standing silently by. Not fully willing to ask themselves why. They did not comprehend the fullness of this death so sweet. Or know of the many others that would stand at your feet.

You knew the ones that would yield to your plea. You also knew those that would turn away and flee. No greater friendship was ever promised to the tainted life of man, And no greater love was shown than by this perfect plan.

When I think of this love, now and forever true, I ask myself. Would I be willing to do the same for you? Would I give up my life so others may see. What you gave for us in agony hanging on a tree? Why do I hang my head when strangers ask me why Such a mighty Saviour as mine had to hang upon a tree to die?

Will my feeble heart not show its joy, for knowing one such as you? Will my gratitude not become a light to more than just a few? I have a perfect Saviour, for this I am blessed. Now in His perfect strength, let me tell it to the rest.

Linda Beadle, Swan Riuer, Man.

THE MESSENGER

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More than 200 people registered at the joint meeting of the EMMC/CMC/EMC held in Winnipeg on November 2 in the Morrow Gospel Church.

THREE MENNONITE CONFERENCES MEET

Historical Ministerial Meeting WE’RE MAKING history today. It’s ex­ citing,” said Mr. Harvey Plett as he address­ ed a joint ministerial made up of three dif­ ferent Mennonite Conferences: the Chortitzer Mennonite Conference (CMC), the Evangelical Mennonite Missions Conference (EMMC) and the Evangelical Mennonite Con­ ference (EMC). The gathering was historic in the sense that these three Conferences had never had a joint

ministerial meeting before. The possibility of such a joint meeting grew out of correspondence between the EMC General Board and the Executive Board of the EMMC. The CMC. when they heard about it, also agreed to participate. More than 200 people, both men and women, registered for the event held at the Morrow Gospel Church (EMMC) in Winnipeg, November 2, 1985.

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1 Harvey Plett, EMC (left, center) and Bill Hildebrandt, CMC (right, center) were two of the speakers at the joint meeting. Mr. Plett is academic dean at Steinbach Bible College. Mr. Hildebrandt is the bishop of the Chortitzer Mennonite Conference.

NOVEMBER 1, 1985

The stated purpose of the meeting was for the leadership of these Conferences to become better acquainted with each other and to share together in a common learning experience. The meeting began with the pastor of the Morrow Gospel Church, John Schmidt, ably leading in worship by way of some ap­ propriate hymns and choruses - “I’m so glad I’m a part of the family of God” - scripture and prayer. Mr. Harvey Plett. academic dean at Stein­ bach Bible College, had the task of giving an historical overview of the three participating Conferences. By way of introduction he pointed out that these Conferences have already done things together and are doing things together: e.g., Mennonite Central Committee and Steinbach Bible College. The EMC is the oldest of the three groups and he began his overview with that body, pointing out its origin in southern Russia in 1812. The instrument was Klaas Reimer. The group was named Kleingemeinde (now EMC). The Kleingemeinde was a breakaway from the established Mennonite Church. The reason was they wanted a more spiritual church. The CMC also originated in southern Russia around 1836 at Bergthal Colony. In 1876 nearly the whole group came to Canada, eventually settling in both East and West Reserves in Manitoba. In time the West Reserve people took on the name Sommerfelder and the eastern part took the name Chortitzer Mennonite Church. The EMMC goes back to 1936 in southern Manitoba. They came out of the Sommerfelder Church in the form of a renewal movement and initially began with around 1100 members. “I’m very happy.” said Plett, “that the paths are coming together again.” Plett’s presentation was followed by testimonies of how God is at work in the various Conferences. Wilf Loewen spoke for the EMMC. He too expressed his pleasure about the gathering. He felt that our duplicity has not always had sound justification. They have churches from Saskatchewan to southern Ontario and Belize, CA. The challenge is how to respond to needs. One priority today is church planting. He also felt we should concentrate more on long-term goals. We are slaves to the urgent and lack longer term emphasis, he deplored. He feels we should join hands and do it together. Ed Plett, speaking for the EMC, pointed out that regionalization, a recent concept in the EMC. seems to be working out quite well, which also resulted in the hiring of a Con­ ference Pastor. He also remarked on the acPAGE 9

celeration of cross-cultural growth in the Conference. One concern he expressed was that of materialism. He further believes the EMC suf­ fers from a poor self-image, “something we ■ need to look at.” Thirdly, he believes that we are moving away from an Anabaptist orien­ tation. Fourthly, he mentioned the role of women (definition). He reminded the audience that we must remember that the church is God’s possession and this gives reasons for optimism. According to Mr. Bill Hildebrandt, who represented the CMC, their Conference has eleven churches, nine in Manitoba and one each in Saskatchewan and B.C. They have approximately 2500 members and had about 10% growth in the last five years. He mentioned as an item of praise that they had now had their 17th missionary con­ ference. They have some 26 missionaries. He noted also the caring attitude among their people. He also expressed concern in certain areas. He would like to see more people in Bible col­ lege and Bible school. Materialism was another concern. Among the things they feel need more working on is the role of women in the church. They are also wondering about a name change for their church and the matter of salaried pastors. The afternoon saw three topics presented on “Improving the Quality of Community Life in Our Churches.” Ed Stoesz, a Winnipeg pastor (EMMC), spoke on “A church in which all members feel responsible.” Cornie Martens, teacher at SBC, and pastor (CMC), spoke on “A church in which all generations can participate.” Ed Friesen (EMC) address­ ed himself to “A church in which all cultures are welcome.” This was followed by a period of response to the above presentations. Among the ques­ tions was, how do we work in a cross-cultural community? Another question was on the language problem (German and English). Here the sentiment seemed to be to go slow­ ly. A few made suggestions on what they had done to bridge one particular generation gap. Finally, the chairman felt, it was time to think about response to this day’s happenings. Do we favour it? Should we have it again? “1 am deeply grateful for this day,” said one. “Years ago I hoped it would happen.” Another felt it was almost imperative that we get together in this way. “I would encourage getting together more,” said another. In closing. Mr. Arden Thiessen (EMC), chairman of the sessions, reminded the au­ dience that they were not together as a decision-making body. What will happen fur­ ther on remains to be seen. Two ministers of long standing, Mr. John D. Friesen (EMMC, Saskatoon) and Mr. Ben D. Reimer (EMC, Steinbach), were called up for the closing. Dave Schellenberg

PAGE 10

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The work begins on the new MCC building. Left to right: Leo Driedger, Vic Schroeder, George Loewen, Abe Wiebe, Dave Redekop, Walter Wilms, Art Cornelsen, Harold Funk, Dan Zehr, and Paul Peters.

Ground broken for New MCC Building WINNIPEG, Man.—With snow from the first flurry of the year still crusting the soil, par­ ticipants recently gathered here on a chilly Saturday morning to break ground for a new MCC building. A joint project of MCC Canada and MCC Manitoba, the building will take the place of a three-storey office structure erected by MCC Manitoba in 1968. That building has been outgrown as programs have increased. (MCC Canada’s budget alone has grown from $150,000 in 1964 to $17 million in 1985.) The building site is a four-acre lot on the banks of the Red River near the intersection of Bishop Grandin Boulevard and Pembina Highway. The new one-storey structure will

have numerous advantages, including ac­ cessibility to the handicapped, more room for office personnel, larger parking area and ad­ ditional warehousing space for material aid and SELFHELP Crafts. It’s hoped the addi­ tional space will also invite more participation from volunteers in various projects. The building will be the first office space owned by MCC Canada since its inception in 1963. Costs for the project will be split 50-50 by the two MCCs, with MCC Canada’s $675,000 portion to be raised through special drives in the supporting provinces. Each pro­ vince will be asked to contribute in propor­ tion to its share of the MCC constituency.

Canadian Foodgrains Bank Active WINNIPEG — Famine relief efforts are be­ ing stepped up to fulfill Africa’s need for food. Countries like Ethiopia, Sudan, Mozam­ bique and Mali are among those still suffering from food shortages. The Canadian Foodgrains Bank, a non­ profit, charitable organization representing 7 church denominations, provides foodgrains for use in emergency relief and food-for-work development projects. Once the grain arrives at its destination overseas, relief and develop­ ment agency workers supervise distribution. Last year some 28 shipments totalling 48,057 tonnes of foodgrains were sent by the Foodgrains Bank to Africa, Asia and Latin America. The relief portion was enough to feed 240,000 people for one year or almost three million people for one month. Foodgrains used in the food-for-work portion represented more than five million man days

of work at a daily ration of 2.5 kilograms. “Producers are the heart of the program,” says Bert Loewen of Winnipeg, Man., ex­ ecutive director of the Foodgrains Bank. “By giving grain, they demonstrate their own con­ cern for others. They also have the satisfac­ tion of sending something they have produc­ ed through their own skills and efforts.” Donations to the Foodgrains Bank are in­ creased automatically by the Canadian Government. All donations, grain or cash, are fully tax-deductible. The fall grain drive runs from the beginn­ ing of November to Christmas. Local volunteer committees are beginning to collect grain across the prairie provinces. Details of locations and times will be publicized later. For further information and/or comments: C. Wilbert Loewen (204) 944-1993 Executive Director

THE MESSENGER

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GENESIS SERIES VIEWED

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Virgil and Velma Scharfenberg celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary in Hudson Bay on September 14.

COMMISSIONING SERVICE HELD

Hudson Bay, Sask.: Relatives and friends gathered in the lower auditorium of the Pineridge Fellowship Chapel on September 14 to help Virgil and Velma Scharfenberg celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary. Son-in-law Brent Greba was master of ceremonies for the program which consisted of musical and vocal selections by the family, also by Virgil’s brothers and Edwin Wright of Sturgis, Velma’s brother-in-law. Rev. John Kornelsen gave a short meditation to close the program. Virgil and Velma were married on September 8, 1960 at Sturgis. Sask., and moved to Hudson Bay in 1965. They have three daughters, Brenda, Cheryl (Mrs. Brent Greba). and Janine, two sons, Garfield and Jeffrey, and one grandchild. On Sunday, October 20, our church fami­ ly and friends enjoyed a delicious potluck Thanksgiving supper. Later two films were shown and a group from Endeavour favoured us with instrumental music. On November 3 our church com­ memorated a solemn occasion when Myra Kornelsen was commissioned for Voluntary Service under MCC. As Myra gave her testimony and showed her willingness to serve, so the congregation responded with a commitment to stand behind her in prayer. Mr. Henry Block, an MCC board member from Saskatoon, gave an inspiring message on how we should be like Jesus, who was always willing to stop whatever He was do­ ing to help someone with a need. Myra will be serving as a teacher’s aide at Marymound School in Winnipeg, a school for troubled adolescents.

NOVEMBER 1, 1985

Kola, Man.: Friday. October 18, was the day of Kola's annual Thanksgiving supper. The meal, which was prepared and served by the women of the church, under the organization of the Mary Martha Committee, was delicious. The attendance was down from what it had been in the past few years. This was due mainly to the wonderful weather. Many of the farmers were very thankful that they could be out in the fields getting their crops harvested, and so missed the supper this year. After the food and fellowship, a short pro­ gram was held, right there in the basement of the church. Some congregational singing and group music was followed by the taking up of the Thanksgiving offering. The dona­ tions were substantial and flowed from thankful hearts. Pastor James Penner had a short devotional in which he recommended to us the generosity and contentment of the Macedonians (2 Corinthians 8:1-5) in contrast to the general avarice and covetousness so prevalent in the world today. The remainder of the evening was spent in cleaning up. Tradition has it that the men wash dishes at the Thanksgiving supper and there were willing hands again this year. The women kept busy cleaning up and clearing away. “And ye shall eat in plenty, and be satisfied, and praise the name of the Lord your God, that hath dealt wondrously with you: and my people shall never be asham­ ed” (Joel 2:26). Our fall sessions of Family Night began the first week in October and will continue through the second week of November. Dur-

ing this time we meet once a week to view the films, “The Genesis Series,” as presented by The New Media Bible. This series of 15 films takes us right through the book of Genesis, starting with the creation of the world and continuing through the story of Joseph. The early Bible stories are brought to life in a new way as we see them acted out in liv­ ing color. It is sad to see how quickly man deteriorates after that first sin is committed. It is wonderful to see how God can still work out his will through the lives of people who have sinned. It is revealing to see how sin is punished in various ways but God continues to be merciful to those who are faithful. These films are being enjoyed by the children as well as the adults and bring early Bible history to life in a new and real way. SERIES OF MESSAGES ON THANKSGIVING

Pleasant Valley, Man.: Weather made harvesting a frustrating time for the farmers in our congregation. Now that all is said and done, crops were “bumper.” The Lord sent cool temperatures and wet weekends all sum­ mer. making it ideal for growth and filling out. “All things work together for good." After the hail and tornado of last year it was appropriate that we set apart this October for a series of messages on Thanksgiving. The topics included “Thanksgiving for Our Heritage,” “Thanksgiving for Our Church,” etc. We appreciated each one and say “amen.” Our church building has been going ahead

1986 EMC Ministry Orientation IN FEBRUARY 1983 the Conference sponsored an event entitled "Ministry Orientation.” Some 75 people gathered to be challenged to serve the Lord in Conference-related programs. Since that time approximately fifty people who attended have begun new ministry roles: e.g., Ron and Rosanne Poffcnroth (Austria), John and Brenda Cosens (Kamsack, Sask.), Charles and Lorraine Koop (La Crete, Alta.), Peter and Trudy Dueck (High Level, Alta.). For some of these, the 1983 Ministry Orientation was a key event that helped them decide to enter these specific areas of ministry. We look for­ ward to a similar experience this January. Another Ministry Orientation has been planned for January 3, 4, 1986 to be held in the Steinbach Evangelical Fellowship Church. This orientation is designed for Bible college seniors, seminary students, ministers in training, missionary

recruits, local church ministerial who have begun serving in the last several years, and other people looking for Conference-related ministries. All spouses are encouraged to attend as well. We hope to create a better understanding of the Conference struc­ ture and relationships and implant a vi­ sion for ministry. It is meant to be a bridge to ministry and we hope that God will be able to use this in calling people to service. The Ministry Orientation will include a review of our spiritual roots, a look at our Conference and its program, an overview of our missions work and cur­ rent opportunities for service. This will include Canadian as well as foreign work, both leadership and support roles. If you wish to receive registration in­ formation, please call the Conference Office for details (326-6401).

PAGE 11

in “farmer fashion” - seasonal. By now we’re actually on the verge of moving in, and we’re all looking forward to the spacious new building. We were always cozy in our older, smaller one. The singing volume was always excellent. On special occasions we were always crowded, but it seemed to be a shar­ ing, caring give and take. The last few ser­ vices have had a sadness for some of us, knowing they’re numbered. We feel our regular attendance has been growing lately and we’ll have a super congregation to fellowship together with in roomier quarters. October 20 was our missions night. We heard from the many areas of summer ser­ vice by our young people. Wade and Cheryl Cornelsen shared of their experiences in Ger­ many and Mexico, with Teen Missions. Larry Eidse, who was director of the Living Foun­ tain Bible Camp, reported a record atten­ dance this year. One week had all the good weather desired, while the second was wet and cold. They had even considered coming home because the children had to be indoors so much, but then the Lord let the sun peep out and they finished the week. Grace Loewen and Annette Eidse told of all the in­ teresting aspects of DVBS in Sanford and Sperling. Mark Friesen had an excellent slide presentation of his travels this summer. He spent two and a half months touring the Mid­ dle East and Europe, starting with a con­ ducted tour of the Holy Land and ending up working at the Black Forest Academy in Ger­ many. Each person in the congregation was presented with a bookmark from Jerusalem for which we say, “Thank you, that was very thoughtful of you, Mark.” With fall comes the young people’s exodus to their various places of learning. To those of you interested in sending letters of en­ couragement, the faraway ones are Chuck Friesen at Trinity Western, Langley, B.C.; Pam Rempel, BBC, Caronport, Sask. Closer, but not necessarily at home, are Vai Cor­ nelsen (SBC), Barb and Joan Loewen, Audrey and Gerald Reimer (WBC), Lyle Siemens (U. of Man.) and Kathy Bartel (nurse’s training in Winnipeg). Mrs. C.U. Kornelsen had surgery in August but has had enough time to recuperate and head out on a trip (tour) to Paraguay together with her husband. They expect to come back in the company of Ernie and Mary Ann Loewen and their family. Get well wishes to Mrs. Elsie Siemens who has spent the last weeks in Winnipeg hospitals. Our missions conference speaker this fall was Walter Reimer. We had spot reports in word and slide presentations from Lome and Helen Kroeker (Pakistan), Joe and Olga Reimer (South Africa), and Gladwin and Jean Plett (Germany).

PAGE 12

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Parent/child dedication at the Fisher Branch church. Left to right: John and Irene Plantz with Matthew, Wilmer and Pearl Reimer with Jacquelyn and Karla, Cal and An­ na Dueck (pastoral couple).

THANKSGIVING SUPPER ENJOYED Fisher Branch, Man.: October 6 Thanksgiving Sunday! A beautifully decorated sanctuary was the setting for our Thanksgiv­ ing supper. The Young Teens’ Sunday school class had done an excellent job of decorating the church, and the turkey supper, with ail the trimmings, filled our stomachs well. We were reminded of the many blessings the Lord bestows on us as we all wrote down one bless­ ing in our “guest book.” Later we had a pro­ gram consisting of singing, a reading, and a skit, “What are you thankful for?” Things like driver’s license, a day off work (nursing), dry wheat, etc., were mentioned. On October 20 a baby-parent dedication service was held. Cal Dueck spoke to us about Hannah and her relationship with her son Samuel. We were reminded to spend time with our children. That same evening an informal get-together took place at Bert and Helen Dueck’s home. We enjoyed an evening of games, a wiener roast and a lovely sing-song around the warm fire. We thank the Lord for the lovely even­ ing He gave us so this was possible.

THANKSGIVING CELEBRATED

Crestview (Winnipeg): October was the day Crestview chose to celebrate Thanksgiving with special morning and evening services and with a supper. The “Call to Worship” in the bulletin set the mood for the entire day with Psalm 92:1, “It is good to give thanks to the Lord and to sing praises to Thy name, O Most High.” As the people were seated in the sanctuary, the table in front of the church reminded them to be thankful. The Thanksgiving display which was arranged by our ladies’ program committee, consisted of fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers, bread, canned goods and a quilt. All articles on the table were presented to Rev. and Mrs. Froese. The morning service was geared to

Thanksgiving. Pastor Froese has an interesting way of making simple truths come alive. His use of the overhead projector made his message on “Being Grateful” very clear and relevant. The choir sang “Lord, We Thank You” and “Seeking the Lost.” In the evening everyone was invited back for a Thanksgiving supper prepared by the ladies. Well over a hundred people enjoyed baked potatoes and ham, meatballs and pum­ pkin pie, with many other trimmings. Special thanks from the food committee to everyone who so willingly donated food and helped out. The evening praise service included sing­ ing, sharing and a message by Pastor Froese. The personal sharing stressed the need for us to pray for each other and to be thankful for each other. The last verse of a prayer for Thanksgiving sums up the message our celebration day presented. “We’re grateful for so much. Lord, Yet, grant us one request - To live each day with thankful hearts. That others might be blest.”

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VICTORY - THEME OF EVENING SERVICES

Steinbach EFC (Man.): Fall is the time when our church resumes a full schedule after a summer of reduced activities. One of our highlights this fall, which took place October 27-29, was our evening ser­ vices with Mr. Gus Konkel. Mr. Konkel is a professor of Old Testament at the Winnipeg Theological Seminary. He spoke on “Victory over anger, pain, fear and worry.” As his text he used the books of Jonah and Habbakuk. His knowledge of the history of the Old Testa­ ment gave us a better understanding as to why the prophets Jonah and Habbakuk delivered the messages they did. The way he applied their messages to our present-day cir­ cumstances made all of us aware of the im­ portance of gaining victory over anger, pain, fear and worry. A rather exciting new venture that we’ve undertaken is children’s church. Following the Scripture Press curriculum allows us to rein­ force the Bible story they had in Sunday school. Children’s church takes place during the sharing and message time of adult church. Seeing children excited about church and giv­ ing them a double opportunity to learn more about God at their level, like we adults get, is proving to be very rewarding. On October 6 Mr. and Mrs. John A. Reimer celebrated their 50th wedding an­ niversary. We as a church family would like to give them our special congratulations since they are the first couple in our church to reach that milestone. Our church was saddened by the death of Mrs. Jacob F. Dueck. After a long period of illness she passed away on Sunday, October 27. Her funeral was held on Friday, November 1. THE MESSENGER

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Left to right: Joetta Schlabach, Gilberto Flores Campos, Jake Letkemann.

CENTRAL AMERICA HIGHLIGHTED

Birch River, Man.: Mi Dios es potente. tan fuerte, ualiente, No hap nada que no pueda hacer . . . Spanish? That’s right! Translated, it means, “My God is powerful, strong, brave; There is nothing He cannot do.” After a boun­ tiful Thanksgiving banquet on October 6 our congregation joined together to hear Pastor Gilberto Flores Campos speak. Jake Letkemann, Executive Director for Manitoba MCC, introduced Pastor Campos and Joetta Schlabach, who assisted as interpreter. Brother Campos has ministered as a pastor, radio and TV evangelist, and Bible teacher with the Assemblies of God, Baptist and, more recently, with the Mennonite Church in Central America. He outlined life in Central America, impressing upon us that the harvest is ripe. Pastor Campos also requested prayer for the Christians there and those who need to be reached with Christ’s message of salvation. On September 29 the youth of our church presented a very enjoyable evening service. After praising God through song, we watch­ ed a skit that reminded us that when we leave our burdens with the Lord, we must not worry about them any longer. The church band played two selections and the evening clos­ ed with a family film called "Zack.” We are very thankful for the commitment of the youth group and leaders.

An Appreciation Supper was held for Ken and Vai Zacharias on September 27. They will be leaving the church to attend language school in Texas in preparation for missionary work in Paraguay. On October 6 an inspirational musical even­ ing took place with Gene and Ruth Jordon of HCJB Radio. It was a joy to see them use the talents God has given them for His work. The AWANA conference for leaders was held on October 19 in Winnipeg. The Awana is a club dedicated to reaching boys and girls for Christ. Its focus is on Scripture memoriza­ tion which motivates youngsters to earn awards. This conference was a great day of learning and fellowship. A workshop leader stressed the importance of Scripture that has been memorized. It is tucked away in the back of a child’s mind and someday the Holy Spirit will use those verses for His plan and purpose. Deeper Life meetings were held from Oc­ tober 18 to 20. The speaker, Rev. Cornie Martens of Gladstone, spoke on “Pride,” “Morality,” and "Thanksgiving.” A delicious Thanksgiving supper was enjoyed on the clos­ ing evening. The adult Sunday school class is having a good time of fellowship around God’s Word. The study is on “Unity in the Body of Christ.” One point that is frequently stressed is that we don’t just talk unity but that we practice it. Key verses are Ephesians 4:3 and 4, “Be com­ pletely humble and gentle; be patient, bear­ ing with one another in love. Make every ef­ fort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Do we hurt others by what we say? Do we harbour resentment? Do we lack forgiveness? Do we encourage others to destroy unity by gossip? Let us learn from God’s Word and make every effort to keep unity! Special thanks to Larry Dyck for shar­ ing his gift of teaching.

APPRECIATION SUPPER HELD

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Portage la Prairie, Man.: We have been blessed to have Pastor Nelson as our minister for the last few years. Pastor Nelson’s love and concern for people is clearly evident. His gift of listening is very much appreciated. It is en­ couraging to see how important prayer is to Pastor Nelson. I am sure prayer is what sus­ tains him and gives him the strength to keep on going. Our pastor has now felt the need to relax and pursue retirement. December 1 is the date for the arrival of our new pastoral couple. Rev. and Mrs. Otto Hamm. We thank God for His leading in this area. May you feel warmth and a real welcome as you join us. Pastor Hamm will be working with Pastor Nelson for two months.

NOVEMBER 1, 1985

Mr. Erdman Peters celebrated his 90th birthday on September 22.

GOLDEN WEDDING CELEBRATED Landmark, Man.: “Children are a gift from God, they are his reward”(Psalm 127:3, L.B.). To be sure, Mr. and Mrs. Abram P.

Mr. and Mrs. Abram P. Reimer celebrated their golden wedding on August 10.

Reimer and Mr. Erdman Peters would fully agree with this. Their children went out of their way to have something special for a special occasion. Mr. and Mrs. Abram P. Reimer found themselves the center of attraction on August 10. It was their golden wedding celebration. Their children had graciously planned an open house for them. The weather was favourable and so the approximately one hun­ dred guests could visit outside on the green grass with the flowers, trees and birds joining in. The guests were treated to open-face sand­ wiches and sweets, while talking about bygone days, blessings and hardships. The children joined their voices in songs of praise during the program that followed. Their son Sid and some of his brothers brought out some delightful, interesting experiences of the past. Rev. Frank D. Reimer, ever understanding, yet with a sense of humour, was also present to share some promises from God’s Word. Hale and hearty Brother Erdman Peters, a long-time farming resident of the Landmark area, now residing at Fernwood Place in Steinbach, was the special guest at a birthday party in his honour on September 22. He had reached the 90-year mark, and that was no small achievement. A delightful “faspa” (a light afternoon lunch) was set for about 90 guests in the spacious multi-purpose room at Fernwood. An interesting program followed. Participation was good. The choir consisted of the Peters children, grandchildren and even two great-grandchildren. Reminiscing went back many years. Rev. Simon Dueck of the Steinbach Chortitzer Church had encourag­ ing words from the Holy Bible. A beautifully decorated birthday cake, complete with a Bi­ ble verse, was then enjoyed by young and old alike. Truly it must have been a most exciting day and milestone for Brother Peters. Erdman Peters still takes his own shiny car and goes to visit and stay with his children in the Landmark area for a day or two at a time, especially in summer.

PAGE 13

Peter K. Plett 1912 - 1985

Peter K. Plett was born August 28, 1912 into the Peter F. Plett family at Hochstadt. He attended school in Blumenort. In 1926 the Peter F. Plett family moved to Landmark where Peter finished his schooling. He came to know the Lord and was bap­ tized in his late teens. On June 9, 1933 Peter married Elizabeth Plett in Prairie Rose. He set up farming in Landmark but in the early 1940s they moved to a farm in Linden. Later, in 1951, they moved to Willow Ridge to con­ tinue farming. To Peter and Elizabeth Plett were born three daughters and eight sons. Dad was very active in Sunday school and church work, and had a keen interest in missions. In May of 1956 word came from South America that Suzanne, Dad’s sister, had gone home to be with the Lord. This only served to deepen his interest in missions and commitment to serve God in a greater way. In 1964 Dad felt moved of the Lord to move to Arden and help in church planting. Dad took up farming there with the purpose of presenting a witness to the community. In 1966 Dad took Mom and their youngest son Reg to Nebraska to be fully involved in a ministry in an old folks’ home. They moved back to Arden in 1967, and again he became actively involved in the church work. Because of his desire for a ministry and love for the elderly. Dad started working in the Eastview Lodge at Neepawa. He worked at the Lodge and farmed for five more years before he had to retire because of a heart attack. On December 5, 1983 Dad and Mom mov­ ed back to Landmark to spend their autumn years close to brothers, sisters, and friends. They rejoined the church at Landmark, desir­ ing to be part of the fellowship. On September 19, 1985 Dad died and entered his eternal fellowship with God his Heavqnly Father, and Jesus Christ his Spiritual Head. It was always of utmost im­ portance to Dad that his sons, daughters, and grandchildren know the Lord as their personal Savior, and serve God as their Heavenly Father Perhaps the song that would most apt­ ly remind us of Dad is “Tell It Again.” Dad was predeceased by his daughter Alvira and is survived by his wife Elizabeth; his eldest daughter Lillian Bailey, her husband Jim, and their children, Debbie, Jim Dale,

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John Mark and Ruth Ann of Tulare, Califor­ nia; Evangeline Skjaerlund, her husband Jake, and their children, Sylvia, Jake, Gloria, Peter, Les, Dan, Anthony and Ingrid of Land­ mark; Alvin, his wife, Martha, and their children, Myron, Keith, Leighton and BethAnne of Brandon; Gilbert, his wife, Alice, and their children, Todd, Cheryl and Barbara of Neepawa; Les, his wife, Sandy, and their children, Stacey and Suzanne of Arden; John, his wife, Sharon, and their children, Jana and Johnny of Arden; Peter, his wife, Cecile, and their children, Sonya, Lincoln and Robyn of Arden; Dennis, his wife, Donna, and their children, Rachel, Shannon and Jody of Papua, New Guinea; Ken, his wife. Sue, and their. Sue, and their children, Jason and Desi of Arden; and Reg, his wife, Charlene, and their children, Debbie, Dan­ ny, Kelly, Judah and Ben-David of Flagstaff, Arizona. He also leaves behind eight great­ grandchildren and eight brothers and sisters.

Mrs. Marie Dueck 1907 - 1985

“Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on. Yes, says the Spirit, they will rest from their labour, for their deeds will follow them” (Reu. 14:13). It has pleased the Lord to take home to be with Him my wife and our mother on Sun­ day, October 27, 1985. She reached the age of 78 years. She was born in Rosenhof (near Morris) on February 2, 1907. In 1935 she came to know Christ as her Saviour and upon confession of her faith she was baptized by Bishop Jacob B. Kroeker on September 29, 1935 and received into the fellowship of the Rosenort Evangelical Men­ nonite Church. She joined me, Jacob F. Dueck, in maniage on November 3, 1940. We were just a week short of being married for 45 years. Marie enjoyed singing and music. She also enjoyed sewing and was an accomplished dressmaker. She loved flowers and always had a plot of them. Marie had her first stroke in October 1980. She again regained enough of her health so that she could be up and around, do light housework, attend church and go visiting. Subsequent strokes left her weaker, and when she was again admitted to the Bethesda Hospital on October 19, complications set in, and she peacefully passed away at 1:00 a.m. on October 27. She was predeceased by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Abram R. Dueck, her brothers, John, Henry, Nick and Jake; four sisters, Elizabeth, Helen Brandt, Annie Kroeker, and Margaret Reimer. Left to mourn her death are her husband, Jacob F. Dueck; her son Dave and his wife Bernice and three daughters, Melanie, Theresa, and Kathie; her son Marcel; her daughter Dorothy and her children Darren, Guy and Twyla; her daughter Rita and hus­ band Jackson Decker; one brother Abe A.

Dueck; two sisters, Agnes Samis and Susan Davies. We are confident that our beloved wife, mother and grandmother has gone to be with the Lord, released from all sufferings and cares of this world, and is resting in Jesus. The Famili;

Peter E. Friesen 1890 - 1985 "But be thou faithful to the end and I will giue thee a crown of life” (Reu. 2:10). Peter E. Friesen was born the youngest son of John P. Friesens on May 31, 1890. He passed away peacefully on October 18, 1985 in the Red River Valley Lodge, Morris, Manitoba, at the age of 95 years. Peter and his brother Cornie, both being bachelors, farmed at the family homestead near McTavish for many years after all the rest of the family had left or passed on. When Cornie died. Uncle Peter made a succession of moves, boarding out nights, while during the daytime he spent much of his time going to his beloved home in his half-ton truck and carrying on his own activities. He lived at K.E. Friesens, a small house in Rosenort, at John F. Warkentins, and spent many winter months with relatives in Fisher Branch and Riverton. The stay at John Warkentins stret­ ched into 18 years and became his second home, becoming “Uncle Peter” to everyone in the household. Eventually, as his health began to decline, he took up residence in the local Eventide Home from where he kept up the practice for a while to go out to his homestead. It was hard for his independent nature when this had to terminate. This last spring he was transferred to the Red River Valley Lodge in Morris. Uncle Peter was baptized upon his confes­ sion of faith in Jesus Christ on June 29, 1914 by Bishop Peter R. Dueck and received as a member of the Kleingemeinde Church, now Evangelical Mennonite Church. While he went through many spiritual struggles during his lifetime, he became increasingly sensitive that his life, and especially his speech, would glorify his Saviour. In recent times when he’d catch himself complaining about the restric­ tions his poor health was imposing on him, he’d end up saying the Lord had suffered so much more out of love for him than he ever would. Visitors did more for him than any medicine, and always when they left he’d ex­ press his appreciation, asking forgiveness for anything wrongly said. His constant prayer re­ quests were that he’d remain steadfast till his death. Uncle Peter’s simple, satisfying lifestyle bespoke his faith. Uncle Peter’s schooling consisted of meagre grades due to the demands of work at home. At the age of eight he was already herding cattle at the community pasture. He farmed most of his life. He preferred to keep some brush acres for pasturing cattle and horses for others. He had an inventor’s mind and made

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many interesting products. This kept him very alert. His accurate remembrance of the past was very much appreciated. Whenever we need­ ed some information, we could ask Uncle Peter. He was reliably conect, even to his last days, and remarkably well read and informed. Uncle Peter’s health through the years was very good, except for some difficulty in hear­ ing. Arthritic pains came with age, as did heart trouble and ulcerating legs. He suffered a few bad attacks in his latter years and was confin­ ed mostly to his room and wheelchair lately. On Friday morning, October 18, he was taken to the breakfast table as usual. Since he wasn’t hungry, he had only a glass of water and was tucked back into bed. An hour later the nurse checked on him and he had already been call­ ed home, something he had already longed for. We thank the Lord for taking him in this way. As family we’re grateful for the richness this unique uncle brought into all of our lives. Since he had no immediate family, the Lord let us have him around, enjoying his brand of humour, keenness of mind, and sensitivi­ ty to people. Uncle Peter was predeceased by his parents, four sisters and four brothers. Sur­ viving him are one sister-in-law, many nieces and nephews, and other relatives. We would like to thank the staff of the Eventide Home and the Red River Valley Lodge, and all the folks who visited and en­ couraged him. Anyone remaining faithful in these visitations will be blessed of the Lord. The 'Family' John R. Dick 1906 - 1985

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I was born on July 19, 1906 on a farm at Klecfeld, Manitoba. My parents were Heinrich and Katherina Dueck. Since my father was a farmer, and Mother an active gardener, we were always kept busy with numerous farm and garden chores. My father was also active in the church, ser­ ving as song leader, as deacon, and later as a minister and pastor. I remember my parents for many things, but especially for their cor­ dial hospitality to others. Many Sunday after­ noons the farmyard would be filled with cars and buggies of friends who had come to visit and to enjoy the warm hospitality extended to them. My father spent much time in visiting the sick and the needy, and he did what he could for them. I completed my grade school education at the local Kleefeld school, then worked on the farm at home, as was traditional, until the age of twenty-one. Throughout my teen years I could not pic­ ture myself as a farmer, but rather as a teacher, so after completing high school in Steinbach I attended the Winnipeg Normal School in preparation for a career in teaching. While going to school in Steinbach, I started to attend the E.M.B. Church, even though

NOVEMBER 1, 1985

Conference of Churches. God granted me strength and wisdom to serve in various Con­ ference and church responsibilities, including the revision of the Conference constitution.

John R. Dick

I was not saved. The evangelical sermons and the ministry of the church choir in their sing­ ing convicted me of my sinful nature. The load of guilt became too heavy to bear, so one day I went home and tearfully shared my con­ victions with my father. It was on that day that I received everlasting peace and the assurance of salvation. On August 20, 1929 1 was bap­ tized and accepted as a member of the E.M.B. Church at Steinbach. After completing Normal School training 1 was engaged as a teacher for the Seaton School District, a community about two miles north of Kleefeld. I taught there for six satis­ fying and enjoyable years. On July 19, 1931, Helen Friesen, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. P.R. Friesen, became my wife. During our fifty-four years of marriage we fully sensed God’s love and guidance as we served in various situations. I have felt a great sense of thankfulness and appreciation for her love and devotion, both to me as her husband, and to the Lord as her Saviour. While still teaching at Seaton 1 received a call from my church to the ministry, and was ordained as a minister of the Gospel. Keenly sensing my need for a deeper knowledge of the Bible, we left the Seaton School and mov­ ed to Chicago to attend Moody Bible Institute in the years 1936-1939. During my lifetime 1 served as pastor at Henderson. Nebraska; Luton. Iowa; and Grace E.M.B. Church, Ab­ botsford, B.C. While serving the Luton Church, 1 receiv­ ed a call from the newly established Grace Bi­ ble Institute of Omaha, Nebraska. The Lord clearly opened the door to this challenge, and 1 served at Grace Bible Institute for seventeen years, as class instructor, as dean, and in various other capacities. During the years as instructor, I completed educational re­ quirements at Morningside College in Sioux City, at Omaha University, and at Southern Baptist Seminary at Fort Worth, Texas, to earn my doctorate in religious education (D.R.E.). Also during this time I was elected to the position of President of the E.M.B.

After serving Grace Church in Abbotsford for some six years, his health and the pressures of the workload indicated a need for change. He accepted employment with the Dept, of Indian Affairs as chief guidance counsellor, stationed at Prince Rupert, B.C. This was an interesting and challenging ex­ perience, involving visits to isolated Indian reserves by seaplane, boat, and car. He was occupied with this until his retirement at age sixty-five. After his retirement he joined the staff of Burrard Bible Institute at Port Moody, B.C., which later moved to Kelowna and is now known as the Okanagan Bible College. Here he taught for eight years, retiring at age seventy-five. We felt the Lord definitely leading us to move to Abbotsford, where we have been so greatly blessed and helped by the kindness of family and friends in the church who have prayed for us and visited us. Less than a year later John became ill, and his sickness was diagnosed as terminal cancer. Radiation treatments were given, and much prayer on his behalf was made, but it pleased the Lord to call His servant home. Hebrews 4:9 tells us. “There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God.” John has entered into that rest. John’s prayer and desire was that he could remain at home during his last months of ill­ ness and suffering. God granted him this wish and gave Helen the strength to lovingly take care of him. His condition gradually weaken­ ed and on Friday, October 25, he was admit­ ted to the hospital, where he peacefully pass­ ed away on Saturday, the 26th, at 9;00 p.m. He will be deeply missed by his loving wife Helen; three sisters, Anna Friesen (Jansen, Nebraska), Margaret Dueck (Kleefeld), Net­ tie and husband Pete Peters (Kleefeld); one brother Pete and wife Helen (Kleefeld); Helen’s three sisters, Elizabeth Fast (Califor­ nia), Margaret Warkentin (Winnipeg), Mary Moore (Ontario) and one brother Peter and wife Linda. He was predeceased by his parents, by four sisters: Mrs. Marie Isaak, Mrs. Katherine Pen­ ner, Mrs. Elizabeth Fast, and Mrs. Helen Friesen; and by three brothers, Henry, Abram, and Jacob. The funeral took place October 31, 1985 at 1:30 from the Grace Church in Abbotsford with Pastor Mel Koop and Rev. Frank Wiens officiating. Also participating in the service were Mr. Wilkes, representing Okanagan Bi­ ble College: Jerry Franz, president of the EMB Conference; and Bill Regehr, who presented Helen with the first copy of Dr. Dick’s book. The Way It Was. Helen sincerely thanks all who shared in her sorrow by prayer, visitation, flowers or sen­ ding cards and letters of encouragement. ■

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From the Editor

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Faith or Realism? WE ARE AGAIN fast approaching the year end when those churches which operate on the fiscal year will be con­ cerned about budgets for a new year. I think one of the questions we need to ask ourselves at a time like this con­ cerns the relationship between faith and realism. Should we project only that which seems possible? Or should the peo­ ple of God also expect great things from God through faith? Greater things than we can see with our eyes? Maybe you are a member of a committee and supposed to hand in a proposed budget. Maybe you are one who ad­ ministers a budget. Maybe you are a pastor who needs to have input in a budget. Maybe you are a recipient of funds from the budget. Whatever it is, you are intimately involved. In talking of church finances the other day, a friend said something like this, “If you raise your hand in support of a program you should also back it up with your money!’’ This certainly is a reasonable expectation. To be in favour of a program and to pledge to back it up with your pocket­ book are two things. Paul Miller in his book Leading the Family of God warns against using what he called the “corporation model,” in church administration. “They will want you to follow the salesmanship model in proclaiming the gospel, the com­ petitive model in relating to other churches, and the marketing orientation as you decide whether a given church program will sell” (p. 150). I see a church as a non-profit institution which operates on faith as the bottom line. We can copy what is good from business but I believe we need to be on guard that we do not run the church like a modern corporation with its hierarchial structures. Paul states that the kingdom of God is not meat and drink (so important to us!) but it is “righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Rom. 14:17). The church is a God-made institution and its mandate and function is found in Scripture. And in this institution faith plays a very important role.

John White talks about “Christian enterprise” and “business enterprise” in his book The Golden Cow. These are two distinct entities and he fears for the church’s rela­ tionship with God, and the honour of his name. In the business of the promotion and extension of the kingdom of God, faith is the key element. Where the cor­ poration may operate on cold, hard, foreseeable facts, the church operates on faith. God commanded Abram to depart for a land that he would show him (Gen. 12:1). And Abram departed. He departed by faith. The New Testament (Heb. 11) informs us that, “he went out, not knowing whither he went.” This does not mean that we turn a blind eye to facts and reality. But they are not the overriding elements in our decision making. I believe God is pleased when we have a large faith when it comes to extending his kingdom on earth, even a faith which extends beyond what we can see. In fact, it must ex­ tend beyond our boundaries because what we can see is not faith. And Paul says to the Romans that we walk by faith, not by sight. Besides Abram, when thinking of Old Testament models of faith, we could mention Joshua and Caleb. Israel was standing at the crossroads. The issue was whether to enter the promised land or not. Ten of the spies saw only the seemingly insurmountable. The two mentioned above, no doubt, also saw the seemingly insurmountable, but there was one difference - faith. But, as we know, they were out­ voted. God was displeased. Faith in the New Testament has great rewards. Jesus said, “If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree. Be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you” (Luke 17:6). John writes in I John 4:4, “For what­ soever is born of God overcometh the world; and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” May God help us to exercise this kind of faith also as we D. S. consider our 1986 budgets.

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Conference Council WITH THE DATE of the semi-annual Conference Council session (December 7) coming closer, it might be well to re­ mind ourselves of the duties of Conference delegates. Conference delegates are elected by local churches, one per 50 members or fraction thereof. According to my calculations this translates into some 132 delegates for the Conference. Added to this, of course, is the Ministerial Council, which then makes for a total of more than 300 members in the entire Conference Council. Conference delegates have an important function in the Conference. According to the Constitution they are to at­ tend Conference Council sessions to “deliberate on the pro­ blems and business of the Conference, to make the necessary decisions as directed by the Scriptures, in the Conference, and to help build a mutual relationship between PAGE 16

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the local churches and the Conference with its total program.” The role is an important one because obviously we cannot have our total membership present to vote on Conference issues. Hence the churches elect delegates to represent them at the Conference Council meetings. It thus becomes important that the delegates are aware of Conference issues as well as local reaction to these issues so they can in­ telligently represent their church. To facilitate this, delegates receive advance information in order to be able to make their decisions at the Conference Council meeting. I would encourage all delegates to thus exercise the man­ date given to them by the Conference at the Conference Council meeting on December 7. D.S.

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