Issuu

The Messenger EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE

VOL 24 NO. 10

MAY 16/86

mission, teaching, preaching, counsell ing, or whatever our vocation may be, will become shallow and hollow. Let me, then, encourage you first of all, to drink deeply at the wells of salvation, found in the Word of God.

Pii.

A Spiritual Tune-Up by David Ewert God’s Spirit can help us establish a relationship with God so that we scarcely pass through any experience without speaking to him about it, either in supplication, in sighing, in pouring out our woes in fervent requests or in thanksgiv ing and adoration.

EPEATEDLY 1 HAVE heard the adjective “pietistic" used in a negative sense, but “piety” is one word that 1 would hesitate to abandon. There is a word in the New Testa ment that can be translated as “piety” (eusebeia). which is the mark of ge nuine Christianity. It is a New Testa ment equivalent for the Old Testa ment “fear of the Lord.” “Devoutness” (piety) is a very signifi cant Christian virtue, especially in the pastoral epistles (see 1 Tim. 6:11; 2 Page 2

Tim. 3:12; or Tit. 2:12). Surely in the Western world, which has become thoroughly secular. Christians need to foster genuine piety and devotion. What are the resources for the for mation of true godliness? They are those which the saints through the many centuries of the Christian church have tried and tested, such as Scripture, prayer, and song. Is it redundant for me to remind our readers of these once more? My own conviction is that without a constant renewal of our inner life through these spiritual disciplines our activities in

SCRIPTURE Paul speaks of the “consolation” that comes from the Scriptures (Rom. 15:4). No doubt all of us have ex perienced the lifting power of a word that spoke to our need. Dr. Helmut Gollwitzer. in Unwilling Journey, tells the story of how he was captured by the Russians at the end of the last World War and dragged off to a slave labor camp in Siberia. On the way he read Psalm 1 which speaks of the tree planted by the waters. This verse, he says, became for him the ladder out of the abyss. It was the verse that kept him from becoming a beast. He knew that if only his roots were in the waters, he could bear fruit even in a Siberian labor camp. And, he con fesses, the streams did not cease to flow. If the Scriptures are to be a source of renewal we need to take note of the following: Regularity of habit. Everyone must work out a plan for him or herself in the matter of Bible reading—a plan that is suitable and manageable. Whatever the pattern, we must read and study the Scriptures regularly. Good habits make life so much easier. We all know, what is done habitually can become meaningless and can become a mere formality. On the other hand, there are few things that protect us from the disintegration of our inner life as do good habits. Flexibility in schedule. Our habit of Bible reading must allow for changes and innovations. One should not measure the effectiveness of Bible reading by the amount one reads, and so there should be flexibility in the amount one reads. Not only in the amount of reading, but also in the time when we do our reading should we be flexible. My habit for some 40 years has been to have “morning watch” before breakfast: others may prefer another time of day. Variety in method. We need to use our imagination in the matter of Scrip ture reading. Some make a habit of reading through the entire Bible in a year or two years. Others may read a THE MESSENGER

chapter a day; or one chapter from the Old, one from the New. When one reads Kings and Chronicles one may have to take somewhat larger slices, but when one reads the Gospels or epistles, then shorter por tions may be more profitable. Some may use a marking pencil, others make marginal notes; some read a passage together with a commentary (perhaps not too heavy a commen tary), or together with a book of ser mons. or calendar of daily devotions. We should also change the version of the Bible occasionally.

Simply to read the Bible is not enough. We must ponder its truth if we are to be built up. Meditatively in spirit. Simply to read the Bible is not enough. We must ponder its truths if we are to be built up. Johann Bengel’s dictum is ap plicable today as it was in the 1734 edition of his Greek New Testament: “Apply yourself wholly to the text; apply the text wholly to yourself.” I am speaking here of the devo tional, meditative reading of the Scrip tures. There is, of course, also the more serious study of the biblical text, particularly when we prepare ser mons. And this at times becomes an important source of spiritual renewal. William Barclay in his Spiritual Autobiography diagnoses the cause of spiritual malnutrition in a minister’s life: “The more a man allows his mind to grow slack and lazy and flab by, the less the Holy Spirit can say to him. True preaching comes when the loving heart and the disciplined mind are laid at the disposal of the Holy Spirit.” And when we read the Scriptures devotionally we should expect some dry periods. Not every passage leaps at us with a relevant message for the day. Bunyan writes in Grace Aboun ding (p. 118), “Sometimes 1 have got ten so much out of my Bible that 1 could hardly stand it. At other times the whole Bible has been as dry as a stick to me; or rather my heart has been dead and dry to it, that I could not get the least drop of refreshment MAY 16, 1986

out of it, though I looked everywhere for it.” All of God’s saints have ex periences like that. Of John Baillie, noted theologian of Scotland, it was said: his study had a big uncluttered desk, and a big leather chair—one for writing, the other for reading and brooding. But there was also in that room a prayer-desk by the window with its little pile of well-worn versions of the Scriptures and devo tional books. There he was sure to be found alone in worship and thought. His days were very full, but that cons tant and regular habit of devotion was the secret of the holy and humble heart of this man of God. And that brings us to a second spiritual discipline by which our inner life is renewed. PRAYER

Paul exhorts us to pray without ceasing (1 Thess. 5:17), but it is as Claus Harms wrote: “Whoever does not pray at determined times, does not pray at undetermined ones.” The devotional reading of the Scriptures and prayer can hardly be separated from one another. We need to pray in order to hear God’s word to us, and the hearing of God’s word in forms our prayers. It isn’t the length of prayer, nor the posture (Dr. Oswald Smith, formerly of Toronto’s People’s Church, usually did his while walking), but the regularlity of it which is important. Also, our prayer life can be enriched at times by books on prayer, such as John Baillie’s A Diary of Private Prayer. Don Jacobs, the Mennonite missionary statesman, tells of an Anglican missionary whom he learned to know in East Africa, where he served some 25 years, who regularly used the Book of Common Prayer. When Jacobs asked him why he used it, he said, “It helps me over the dry periods.” We will of course never be com pletely satisfied with our prayer life. We have to confess with Paul, “For we do not know how to pray as we ought,” but we also have the assurance that “the Spirit himself in tercedes for us with sighs too deep for words” (Rom. 8:26). Although we need to set aside specific times for private prayer, we should have a prayerful spirit at all times. One does not have to speak

words in order to pray. O. Hallesby defines prayer so beautifully: “Prayer is helplessness.” He writes; “Prayer therefore consists simply in telling God day by day in what ways we feel that we are helpless. We are moved to prayer every time the Spirit of God. which is the spirit of prayer, emphasizes anew to us our helplessness, and we realize how im potent we are by nature to believe, to love, to hope, to serve, to sacrifice, to suffer, to read the Bible, to pray and to struggle against our sinful desires” (Prayer, p. 24f).

We need to pray in order to hear God’s word to us, and the hearing of God’s word informs our prayers. God’s Spirit can help us establish a relationship with God so that we scarcely pass through any experience without speaking to him about it, either in supplication, in sighing, in pouring out our woes in fervent re quests or in thanksgiving and adoration. SONG “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, as you teach and ad monish one another in all wisdom, and as you sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs with thankfulness in your hearts to God” (Col. 3:16). Paul here has corporate worship in mind, but 1 have at times used the hymnbook alongside my Bible reading. Sometimes the words of a song help us to express what’s in our hearts or address the needs in our life in a pungent manner. If we have opportunity to be alone during the day we may wish to sing a hymn audibly for ourselves. It can be a great source of renewal. And I do not want to overlook the strengthen ing that comes to us from the cor porate singing of the great hymns of the faith and the songs our choirs sing. The church has come through the vicissitudes of history “singing.” Other spiritual resources could be mentioned, but space forbids us to say more. May God help us to become truly devout, godly, pious. ■ Page 3

more unlike, but they loved each other. I knew this because of the many times they visited together, the things they discussed anc the way they talked about God. Likewise, my mother had special friends, particularly an older single lady. who. when Mother was gone, became my friend. 1 can hear them still, talking till all hours of the night, their voices soft, mingled with tears and laughter. 1 knew, though unconsciously, that they were strengthening each other in the faith of Christian womanhood. 1 remember another friend fondly. Henry lived with my parents for many years, and was about seventeen when 1 came on the scene.

He was a tall young man. the kind who k his feelings come out. In the evenings he played his accordion for us. When I was grown up. he told me things about myself that no one else did - of the time 1 fell downstairs, the pretty white outfit 1 wore when he first saw me and especially that 1 was a good kid. He is dead now. but when 1 think of him I know he was my friend. I have made friends in the most unexpected

Friendship .

by Helena Dueck

1 friend called me via long distance the other day. She didn't have anything very special to tell me. All she wanted was to keep in touch, chat a bit and remind me that she is my friend. In thinking over the term. "Friend." I came up with the following definition: A friend is someone you can laugh and cry with. Friends are at peace with each other. Friends forgive and ask forgiveness Friends are not influenced by your finan cial or social status. A friend can be trusted and does not betray confidences. A friend teaches me both the positive and negative things about myself. Friends bring out the best in each other. Friends treat each other as they want to be treated. And friends can be quiet with each other without feeling the silence.

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The Bible has a few stories to tell us about friendship. Abraham and Sara were friends, and in James 2:23 we read that Abraham also was the friend of God. The friendship of Ruth and her mother-in-law Naomi is beautifully il lustrated in Ruth's words: "Whither thou goest 1 shall go and where thou lodgcst 1 will lodge. Thy people shall be my people and thy God

my God." Or take the story of Jonathan and David, the harpist in King Saul's palace (1 Samuel 18-20). The relationship between these two young men is one of the most celebrated friendships of the ages. Jonathan gave David his robe, his tunic and even his sword everything that represented his royalty. In the end Jonathan saved David's life from his father’s insane rages "because he loved David as he loved his own soul." From my childhood 1 remember the friend ship of my father with a neighbor who had lived through the horrors of the Russian Revolution. No two men could have been

ways and places. Ten years ago 1 met an In uit girl. She had grown up in the far northern reaches of Quebec, and 1 did not think that we could have anything in common. But see ing her sitting alone day after day. week in week out. in the noisy lunch room at Pollock's Hairdressing School, made me take notice. Emily was strange to white men's ways and Winnipeg, but she knew what it meant to be a friend. She is married now to a man who works for C.B.C.. and every time we get together, our friendship becomes better. It was a friend who took a curler out of my hair (that 1 had missed at home) just when 1 picked up our baby to walk into church, and it was a friend who advised me to cool my anger at another friend - long enough, anyway, to become rational. 1 have a young bride for a friend; a Scot tish pastor: a lady who just turned ninety: the girl from Bogota. Martha Liliana Suarez, who lived with us last year, and my daughter. Each friend gives me something that 1 get from no one else, and let's me give something in return. A teacher I had for six years gave me a strong belief in myself. Over time when we each went our different ways, we kept in touch with letters. And. always when 1 got a letter from him 1 felt a little taller and a bit more confident. He died this past fall and already I miss him. Friendship is a day-to-day adventure that embodies the living Christ. He will not die and He has promised never to forsake or leave me. It takes humility to confirm our fears, ad mit our inadequacies and ask forgiveness. But friendship cannot just happen unless each par ty to the friendship makes an investment of self in the relationship. It was that way with David and Jonathan, my father and his neighbor and my friend who touched me with her love via the long-distance telephone call.

THE MESSENGER

Letters THANKS FOR REMINDING US In reference to your article {Messenger. April 18. 1986). diversity;, according to your observation, would seem to be the answer to the farmer's woes. In view of this I would like to draw your at tention to a few of the avenues we as farmers have explored in the past. We raise at least thirteen varieties of cereal crops, three of alfalfa, four of flax, three of canola, ten to twelve of sunflower, plus numerous varieties of corn, peas, lentils, soybeans and sugar beets. Also included are faba beans, timothy, rye and bird seed. Our livestock and poultry farmers have sup plied us faithfully with beef. pork, poultry, eggs. milk, turkey, duck and goose. To the west of the Red River we have the vegetable growers who are also making the best use of the lighter soils. We may have a long way to go in the agricultural field, but our economic crisis is much more complex than “rising to new challenges,” as you suggested. Edwin Peters R.R.l Box 73 Ste. Anne. Man. ROA IRO

TRIBUTE TO A MOTHER I am sending you a tribute I have written to my mother, and wonder if you would publish it in the Messenger. So often we read about great evangelists and missionaries. How about the great Christian mother? Lena Friesen R.R.l Bowsman. Man. ROL OHO

A bouquet for my dear mother. Mrs. Ger trude Friesen, who passed away sudden ly on May 19, 1985. Dear Mom. It's been a year now since you went to heaven. How we’ve missed you! How we've ached to talk to you, to hug you, to see your smiling face again. 1 thank you. Mom. for being such a wonderful Christian example to your family. You were so unselfish. We sing the song

“Others, Lord, yes others, this shall my mot to be . . .” You lived it! How you loved! Your God. your family, beauty, singing, work, and life in general. Even though your family was large, each of us felt we were “special” to you. You made us feel special by the thoughtful things you did, the way you cared and listened. Your love was not limited to your immediate fami ly. but extended to in-laws, grandchildren and everyone you came in contact with. You serv ed God by serving others. Each of us has his own precious memories of you. I will always remember the late-night talks I had with you when we visited you. sharing joys and concerns long after the rest of the household was asleep. How we treasure the last letter you wrote to our sons (with a little surprise tucked in). Your last words to one of your daughters, as she left your hospital room, were “Blieft ma moutich” (keep on being happy). How you loved to look after the grandchildren when their parents went to town, to teach children’s clubs, or whatever. You really enjoyed work. even washing dishes. Your theory was that if a person enjoys his work, it isn’t work; it is a hobby. One of your many hobbies was making noodles for all the family, another was baking buns for family, for church suppers, etc. Growing a garden and flowers was such a joy to you. Your church has missed the lovely bouquets you brought so faithfully. Our pastor’s wife was thrilled with the “frozen kiss” you sent her on the hottest day in summer (a jar of frozen strawberry jam). How loving ly you cared for Dad through his many il lnesses. always encouraging him. How you loved music! Your favorite part of the family Christmas gathering was the carol singing, and we all knew your favorites. “Star of the East” and “Beautiful Star of Bethlehem.” You enjoyed listening to Chris tian music on records and tapes. How you loved playing that one where Helene was singing in a group. You were sure you could hear her voice above the others. Now you are together, “singing in God’s choir in the sky.” The last church service you attended on earth was on Mother’s Day last year. This will be your first Mother’s Day in heaven, and I know it will be beautiful. Even though we miss you so. it’s a joy to know that you have arriv ed. in that city “where the roses never fade.” We will meet you there, someday. Love, Lena

CORRECTION We failed to give you the right title for our group when we sent in our last article. The “Keesee Koose Church” title does not apply anymore. We now go under the name Badgerville Evangelical Mennonite Fellowship of Kamsack. Frank and Mari; Braun Kamsack. Sask.

Position Open The Steinbach Bible College Board of Directors invites applications for the posi tion of Dean ot \NomenlSecretary. Responsibilities include supervision of the physical, social, and spiritual aspects of female residential students and co ordination of the resident assistants pro gram. General secretarial responsibilities include typing, filing, and record maintenance. Deadline for applications and resumes is June 15, 1986. Contact Ben Eidse, President, SBC Box 1420, Steinbach, MB ROA 2A0 (204-326-6451).

CONTRIBUTIONS Mr. David Ewert is president of the Men nonite Brethren Bible College. Winnipeg, Man. The article is reprinted by permission of the Mennonite Brethren Herald. 3-169 River ton Ave., Winnipeg, Man., Herb Kopp, editor. Helena Dueck does free lance writing. She lives at 312 Cedar in Steinbach. Man. Dave and Helen Plett (Kola) are involved in church planting at the Sioux Valley Indian Reserve. Dick Friesen is EMC Prison Chaplain in Manitoba living in Landmark. MB. Abe and Dee Koop (Kleefeld) are serving under the New Tribes Mission where their work includes teaching missionary candidates, office work and field administration. COVER: Although sheep farming is likely com paratively rare among our readers, I hope you still enjoy our today’s cover picture. By the editor. (Picture taken last year at the Peter Goertzen farm near Steinbach.)

THE MESSENGER is the publication ot the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. Its purpose is to inform, instruct, and inspire. Inform as to what is going on in the Conference: instruct in Godliness and victorious living; inspire to earnestly contend for the faith. All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor D. K. Schellenberg, Box 1268, Steinbach, Manitoba, ROA 2A0. Letters, articles, art and poetry are welcomed. Views expressed in Letters to the Editor are not necessarily those of the editor nor of the paper. Unpublished articles are not returned except by request. Subscription Members pay through their church. Non-members pay $6.00 per year. Send subscription money to The Messenger, Box 1268, Steinbach, Manitoba, ROA 2A0. THE MESSENGER is published every other week by The Evangelical Mennonite Conference of Education and Publication, Box 1268, Steinbach, Manitoba, ROA 2A0. Second Class Mail; Registration Number 0591. Undelivered copies, change of address and new subscriptions should be mailed to the above address. The Messenger is a member of Meetinghouse.

MAY 16, 1986

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Missions BRAZIL

Salt is Sweet

exemplary lives that display Christian concepts in action and that they pay the price to live with these people to learn their ways and how

Every tribe, tongue, and nation....

"Salt is sweet" is no typographical error. You and I would not express it that way but the Pacaas Novos Indians did in their first en

counter with salt. It was unknown in their primitive jungle diet and they had no word for this good feeling in the taste buds. Con sequently they employed the closest equivalent, “sweet." until they saw it in a bag. felt it. tasted it and discussed it. They adopted the Portuguese word “sal" to express this total ly unknown concept in their experience. You may say. “So. these primitive people did not know salt. Interesting, but what is the big deal?” True, there is nothing profound about having no word for salt. However, it is an eye opener of what happens when new concepts are introduced. “Salt" they can see. feel, taste, dissolve in water, evaporate the water and the crystals are back again, buy a kilo of it and show it to their friends to see and taste and the new concept is effectively and thoroughly introduced and becomes a perfect ly understood part of their lives and thinking. The missionary, however, did not primari ly come to introduce salt, or whatever, but came to teach spiritual concepts, which are abstract concepts, concepts that cannot, like salt, be handled, tasted, looked at. taken home and shown to others. They only can be described in word pictures. However, in a tribal language where Biblical concepts are totally new. such vocabulary often is non

existent or carries only a small fraction of meaning needed to portray the new concept.

Abe and Dee Koop.

created all languages is the constant Compa nion of the missionaries; in fact. He lives in them. But. it does demand that they live

and the bulk of their meaning is misleading. “God" is a name full of meaning to you and

me: in fact, it takes the whole Bible to describe the little we know about Him. Can you feature someone knowing nothing about God? “God” being as “Toira" is to you? Meaningless. Right? Imagine for a moment that you had to teach a tribal people about salt, but they had never heard of it nor have a word for it. and you have no access to salt to show. What words and gestures would you use to describe

it? God. angels, guilt, sin. judgement, love, mercy and forgiveness are some of the many concepts that are difficult to teach. It requires a thorough knowledge of the tribal language, customs and beliefs to avoid pitfalls of misunderstanding on the part of the tribal peo ple. Their already existent words and concepts must be used to gradually broaden their horizon of understanding. However, there is the danger of the “salt is sweet” syndrome; that is. equating "God" with one of their spirit deities, or understanding love, peace, forgiveness, sin and judgement according to their tribal experience, thus coming to a false conclusion of what the missionary is trying to communicate. Once the missionary is fluent in their language and has a good understanding of their culture we find it best to begin teaching the Word from eternity past. God's Spirit alone before creation, and move along the chronological path of Biblical history to the crucifixion, progressively developing understanding and vocabulary. These stories portray Biblical concepts, like the Prodigal Son portrays repentance without using the word. On the first time through the missionary only touches on the areas that contribute to understanding their utterly lost condition and salvation by grace through faith apart from works. Afterwards it is repeated with more detail applying to the Christian life. We call this the "Chronological Approach" to Bible teaching. This approach, with its many stories of God speaking, man's actions and God's dealing with mankind, clarifies many prior er

roneous concepts inherited from their old beliefs. Not only is it an effective way to lay a solid foundation for Indians hearing the Good News for the first time, but believers come to understand the Scriptures as never before. One Indian pastor said with deep con viction. "Now. it is as though I see Jesus Christ on the cross for me" No. it is not impossible to teach the Word to primitive tribal people. The very God Who

to communicate effectively with them. Pray for our missionaries working on this field in 19 different languages, each with its own peculiarities and problems, that they will carefully and diligently study, teach and translate with great confidence in the Lord who sent them, seeing that victory is certain because the book of Revelation declares there will be some of every tribe, tongue and na tion present before the Lord. Pray, too, for us field leaders that we may provide wise counsel and encouragement. Abe Koop

SIOUX VALLEY. MAN.

Controlled by Christ’s Love Working Together “Whatever we do. it is not for our own pro fit. but because Christ's love controls us now. Since we believe that Christ died for all of us, we should also believe that we have died to the old life we used to live. He died for all that all who live, having received eternal life from him. might live no longer for themselves, but to spend their lives pleasing Christ who died and rose again for them" (2 Cor. 5:14. 15). We had 23 present at our service at Sioux Valley last Sunday. A few Sundays ago (April 10) Mrs. Doris Pratt, a lady who used to be one of the leading people in our church, at tended. She became discouraged in her Christian life and lived in sin for ten years. Now she came back to give her testimony of how she has rededicated her life to Christ and received forgiveness of her sins. She is now teaching a class in church; ten children were present for the first class. Last Sunday we had a native brother from Sioux Valley share the Word with us; it was well accepted and all were blessed by it. We are also excited about and working towards our DVBS which is planned for July 7 to 11. Quite a few have already indicated that they plan to attend. We hope to double our attendance this year. (It was 30 last year.) The Kola church has again offered to come and help, for which we praise the Lord. I have had wonderful experiences working with the Native Evangelical Fellowship from Brandon. 1 have done quite a bit of visitation together with them and the responses have been very favourable. They have also shared God's Word at our church services. We praise the Lord for the groups that

THE MESSENGER

come out to serve us with music and singing, as well as those who come to take my place when I can not be present. On May 4 we had the privilege of having the Sonrise Band from Kola with us. The turn-out was very good 50-60 people. We were all richly blessed and hope to have them back sometime. Please remember to pray for us as we minister in Sioux Valley. Dave and Helen Plett

' I

Prison Chaplaincy f

Stopped Running 1 am at present incarcerated at the Stony Mountain Penitentiary due to a serious mistake I made a few years ago. The reason for the mistake was that I was running away from God. I have gone through a lot of deep inner struggles, but my chaplain. Dick Friesen, has helped me a great deal. I have been helped and have found the Lord. The Lord has been very good to me. He forgave my sins and helped me through a very traumatic ex perience. A number of important matters are falling into place. My wife and I are planning to remarry after eight years of divorce. We are both Christians now and love the Lord. Albert Widenmaier (Submitted by Dick Friesen. EMC Prison Chaplain)

James Bertsche

Bertsches Honored at AIMM Dinner Reflections and gratitude marked the April 4 banquet hosted by the Board of the Africa Intcr-Mennonite Mission in recognition of retir ing Executive Secretary. James E. Bertsche. and his wife Genevieve. All former and pre sent AIMM missionaries and Board members, along with friends and family, were invited to the catered meal served in the Evangelical Mennonite Church. Archbold. Ohio. The program attended by 150 guests featured vignettes of the Bcrtsches' thirty-eight years of mission service, including twelve years of AIMM staff leadership in the Elkhart. Indiana office. Brief highlights were shared by

« Baptism in Chihuahua City on March 9. Baptized were Alma Castro and Maricela Gon zalez. They are pictured here with two of the brethren, Jose Rodriguez and Oscar Nieto.

MAY 16, 1986

twelve persons representing church and mis sion colleagues, the staff and Board and the “missionary kids.” Daughters Sandra and Lin da presented tribute by means of slides which covered Jim and Jenny’s days of courtship in the 1940s. experiences in the Congo and the prospect of activities in the coming retire ment later this summer. Commemorative plaques were presented by the AIMM Women’s Auxiliary to Jenny, who has been the WA Coordinator, and by the AIMM Board to Jim for his leadership as Executive Secretary since 1974. It was noted that more than 35% of the 340 4- workers who have ever served with AIMM in its 75-year history were sent to the field during James Bertsche’s time as Ex ecutive Secretary. The fields in which these serve have grown from two to five and the partnership that forms the Mission expanded from three to six groups during his tenure. The inscription on the plaque given to James Bertsche describes his many years of ministry and summarized the theme of the evening: “A Life for Christ and a Love for Africa.”

Zaire Colleague Drowns Word was received that a young Zaire church leader. Mukulu Kalenga Kasanda. was missing and presumed drowned after a boat accident on the Tshikapa River Wednesday. March 12. At the city of Tshikapa the Tshikapa River flows into the larger Kasai River, There is a narrow steel bridge over the Tshikapa River which dates from the era of ox carts once used by the Forminerc Diamond Mining Company. It was recently closed for badly needed repairs. Local people with dugout canoes were providing ferry services for peo ple needing to cross the river at that point. Kalenga was on his way to the General Hospital regarding some printing the hospital requested to be done. A survivor of the ac cident reported that Kalenga had been a passenger in the canoe but he had not been seen after the canoe capsized. Kalenga had worked for years with mis sionaries in the area of Christian literature pro duction and distribution. He was working with Leona Schrag in the Christian Education Department where he operated the platen press and mimeograph. Mukulu (deacon) Kalenga Kasanda was the son of long time CMZ pastor. Kasanda David. He had inherited something of his father’s traits: quiet, steady, faithful, committed to his church and his work. He will be keenly mis sed by all. Co-worker. Leona Schrag. in a note repor ting the tragic loss, wrote. “We have very heavy hearts tonight. It is so hard to believe. I’m praying God will bring some special fruit from his death.”

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Messenger News EMC Ministerial Discusses Divorce/Remarriage At their meeting on February 1, 1986 the EMC ministerial grappled with issues involv ed in the pastoral care of the divorced and remarried. The purpose of the study was to examine the practical aspects of marital con flict, counsel, and how the church needs to respond. Questions of how to accept, counsel, and integrate people into the church who have experienced divorce or whose mar riages are faltering were aired in a brotherly fashion. The approach chosen was not a theological or Biblical study method. Rather, the General Board had prepared four case studies and the major work on each was done in small groups. After small group discussion, reports, clarification, and feedback were given in the larger group setting. The case studies contain ed enough detail to provoke discussion on a wide variety of issues. Following is a brief sum mary of these case studies (names are fictional): Case study A: Joe and Sally (he’s divorc ed. she’s single) are living common-law and decide they want a church wedding. How should we respond? Case study B; Mike and Susan, both with children from a previous marriage, are living common-law. Neither has a divorce from his/her previous marriage. They come to you. as an EMC pastor, seeking your advice regarding divorce, remarriage and baptism.

we not fall prey to prevailing trends of our society in resolving marital problems and breakups. We need to live by Biblical prin ciples and seek their relevance to the solution of the problems of marriage and divorce. We are concerned as a church to be a redemp tive body providing healing for broken mar riages without endorsing further compromise and sin. Each of the groups was also asked to state what next steps should be taken by our Con ference with regard to the issues discussed. The following proposals were voiced: - Conduct a seminar on how to deal redemptively with problem marriages. - Have a thorough Biblical study on the subject.

- Examine the inconsistency in our Con stitution statement. - Avoid imposing Conference guidelines. Perhaps each local church needs to set their own; however, we need to learn from one another's experiences.

What is your response? Case study C: Bernice was an abused wife. One night her alcoholic husband sent her and the children away and told them never to return. Ben disappeared. Bernice is seeking divorce. What is your response? Case study D: A couple, divorced and remarried, have become members in your church. They want to serve in the church. What is your response? Perhaps agreement was best evidenced in the discussion of the reality and the problems of divorce and remarriage. Disagreement became more evident as the brethren tried to solve the problems. There was also disagree ment on how to interpret Biblical teaching on divorce and remarriage. There was disagreement over whether an ill-entered marriage might be annulled and whether desertion of the unbelieving partner would permit remarriage. Several brethren ex pressed fear of setting precedents or trends in tolerating divorce. Others felt that we should be more concerned about care and ministry in each case than long-term principles. Another special concern is that as churches

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New British Columbia MCC Director Appointed Waldo Neufeld, currently Coordinator of Personnel and Administrative Services with MCC Canada, has been appointed Executive Director of MCC B.C.. effective January 1. 1987. Before joining MCC Canada eight years ago. Neufeld was director of Mennonite Brethren Communications for five years, and also served with MCC in West Africa between 1960 and 1965. Reflecting on the role of provincial direc tors. Neufeld sees a big part of the job as "building stronger bridges with constituent Conferences." That should be reflected, he says, in the local service program, "so that it becomes an extension of Conference church planting efforts wherever it's practical and feasible." Developing a sense of “ownership" of MCC within the constituent churches is another priority, Neufeld says, noting that he too fre-

quently hears "we,'they kind of terminology -- and MCC is considered the ’they'." He would like to "affirm our people as a giving people," and at the same time continue to remind them that even when images of the poor and hungry fade from the television screen the needs continue.

Bible Press for China Tremendous changes are underway in the People's Republic of China these days and Chinese Christians are missing no opportunity to make their witness count. Their latest pro ject is the $6.7 million dollar "Amity Press." Planned in cooperation with the United Bi ble Societies. (U.B.S.). This Bible press is the largest single project ever undertaken by the U.B.S. and is an answer to prayer for Chris tians around the world. In March 1985 Chinese Christians created an organization called "Amity Foundation." Its aim is to spread the Gospel and help China's modernization and social develop ment through education and medical work. An additional aim is to make the Christian presence and involvement more widely known among the Chinese people. The automated press, which will be opera tional early in 1987. will print educational materials but will give priority to Bibles and Christian literature. Estimated annual produc tion is 250.000 Bibles and 500.000 New Testaments. The Bible is especially precious to Chinese Christians because during the years of the "Cultural Revolution" Bibles were forbidden and ordered destroyed. One couple told how they wept as they burned their only copy and asked God to forgive them for destroying His Word. During these difficult times, believers met to recite what they had memorized before

Pastor Required Mount Salem EMC, Aylmer, On tario, is looking for a pastor to begin duties July 30, 1986. It is necessary forthe incoming pastorto minister in the Low German language. For further information contact; Ben Friesen Canadian Secretary EMC Board of Missions

Box 1268 Steinbach, Man. ROA 2A0 Phone: 326-6401

THE MESSENGER

p.'s*

(Bahamas). Bill and Anne Buhler (Paraguay). Lome and Helen Kroeker (Pakistan) and Phyllis Penner (Venezuela). They chal lenged us to use the EMC Missionary Direc tory to pray for missionaries.

TEACHING ON CONTINUOUS REVIVAL

Han Wenzao, General Secretary of the Amity Foundation, and John Erickson, General Secretary of the American Bible Society, review the traditional method of typesetting in the People’s Republic of China. The new printing facilities funded by the United Bible Societies and the Amity Foundation will include computer typesetting which will greatly improve upon production facilities currently available.

the ban. and wrote the passages in notebooks. Today the Chinese may own Bibles again - if they can find one. In the last five years the "China Christian Council" has printed an average of 36.0(30 Bibles per year. There are more than 1,000.000.000 people in China. The Amity printers are planning an edition in simplified Chinese script for younger readers. Traditional script is complex picture writing and has no alphabet. Characters are combined in various ways to form new pic tures with different meanings. For example, in the new simplified script, four elements combine to form the word “easy."

Mr. David Thorne, a member of the Australian Bible Society, is in charge of instal ling the new equipment and training Chinese printers. The press will be located at Nanjing University. 800 km north of Hong Kong. Mr. Li Thong Hua. a Chinese interpreter and a friend of MCC. talked about the changing times and the new influences: "It's like we have been in a room for a long time and the air is stale. It's time to open the window and let in some fresh air. Of course, some flies will also come into the room and they might bother us a bit. yet the fresh air is worth ha ving a few flies around."

SBC Drama Group Performs

Arden, Man.: On March 9 Mr. Frank Giesbrecht of the Neepawa Gideon Camp gave us a report on the work of the Gideons. He also encouraged us to make a habit of using the new 'In Honour’ and ‘Memorial Bi ble Plan’ cards, because 100% of that money goes to placing Bibles. We were fortunate to have the Glen Wiebe family of Gladstone in our church on March 16. They are going into Northern Manitoba under Continental Missions in September; they will be taking their training in B.C. first. Three of their five children sang a song for us about being in the will of God. Mr. Wiebe then filled us in on the work they will be in volved in once they get there. Glen will be flying an airplane and his wife Sharon, who is a registered nurse, will be helping out wherever she can. as well as taking care of the family. For Christian Endeavour on March 16 the SBC drama group performed for us. The nine students acted out many short skits perMAY 16, 1986

taining to the life of a Christian. Mr. Ben Eidse had the devotional and encouraged us to pray for the school. Our young people's group was blessed by the Silverwind Concert they attended in Bran don on March 21. Pastor Jerry Plett was asked to preach in the Heron church on March 23. so James Penner, pastor of the Kola EMC. came to our church to share God's Word. Our annual missionary conference took place April 3-6. The main speaker was Glad win Plett of Seesen. Germany. His wife Jean entertained the children with a story each night and also taught them a German song. A slide presentation and report of their work in Germany was given during Sunday school time. Each evening different missionaries at tended to give a report and slide presentation of their work which gave us a better idea of what that part of the world is like. We can now more effectively pray for the missionaries who reported to us. They were Harvey Plett

Swan River, Man.; "Revive me according to Thy word" (Psalm 119:5b). This was the prayer of our fellowship before and during the week of April 20 to 27 as Harry and Evelyn Thiessen of the Canadian Revival Fellowship ministered to us. We were challenged to live according to the three S’s: 1) Deal with sin. 2) Deal with the self life. 3) Deal with the fil ling of the Holy Spirit. As soon as the Holy Spirit convicts us of sin. we need to do what 1 John 1:9 says. "If we confess our sins. He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." Next, we must consider ourselves “dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus" (Romans 6:11). Then we need to ask the Holy Spirit to fill us and. as an evidence of faith that He will, thank

Him. The last evening many shared of the truth and practicality of the three S’s and how they were experiencing victory. Mr. Thiessen chaired the sharing time and brothers and sisters in the Lord ministered to one another in praying for requests and concerns that were expressed. There was no need for a message. Mr. Thiessen said. “You have spoken more than I could have." “We are thankful for their genuine love and desire to instruct us in the way of continuous revival." As Evelyn said, when people ask “How long does revival last?” she answers. "As long as we want it.” Plans are going ahead for a new church building. We have felt the need for more room, especially for the Christian Day School and Sunday school. Land was purchased a couple of years ago with plenty of room for a playground for the day students.

Church Planter Required A church planter is required to continue planting an EMC church in Edmonton, Alberta, starting Ju ly 1, 1986. This position is under the direction of the EMC Board of Missions. Contact; Ben Friesen Canadian Secretary EMC Board of Missions Box 1268 Steinbach, Man. Phone: 326-6401

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Left to right: Robert Wiebe, Sheidon Esau, Gary Esau and James Toews in the skit "Jaws."

TALENT NIGHT HELD Crestview (Winnipeg): The long-awaited evening finally arrived on April 27. The church was almost filled with many friends and relatives who had gathered to hear and see the talents of Crestview. Orville Harder did a good job of chairing this evening of variety. The two youngest per formers were Marcie Funk and Andrea Kehler, who are well on the way to be coming concert pianists. Some other soloists were Betty Dyck who read a poem. Daryl Thiessen who presented a lively puppet show on love, and Mary Solnik who sang. Others got together with friends and relatives to perform such feats as a violin duet. Well done. Ray and Betty! A vocal duet by Roxie and Orville Harder was enjoyed. Another duet arrangement took place in the form of a skit by Mary Esau and Helen Funk. Four young people got together to form a quartet - Londa Esau (soprano), Chris Toews (alto), Joanne Loepp (tenor) and James Toews (bass). Cheri Toews accompanied them on the piano. The men’s ensemble sang a rousing hymn. Lest anyone should be forgotten, all the ladies of the audience were asked to join in a hymn. The men also sang a little later. Two mass choirs were instantly formed! One of the highlights of the evening was a musical skit by the young people. The skit “Jaws.” directed by Ray and Pat Plett, was a real success. After a few weeks of practice King Darius (James Toews) was quite authoritative, Daniel (Sheldon Esau) was un shaken in his faith, the guards (Gary Esau and Robert Wiebe) were convincingly mean. The lions (the girls) bared their teeth and snapped their jaws at the most appropriate times. The

Page 10

entire cast joined in the refrain of "Jaws. jaws, lions' jaws - roarin.' crunchin’ lions’ jaws sharp and munchin.' hungry snappin.’ crackin.’ lions’ jaws!” This modern version of Daniel 6 showed once again the omnipotence of God. We hope to see more of these per formances in the near future. After several voluntary items were heard. Rev. and Mrs. Jake Froese sang the song "My Jesus Has Broad Shoulders.” Rev. Froese made a few challenging remarks before everyone went downstairs for refreshments. We extend a hearty thanks to the program committee for their efforts in putting on such an inspiring evening. “And let us not be weary in well-doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not” (Galatians 6:9, KJ).

Watch for counterfeit peace! 2) Dwelling in the richness of God’s Word (v. 16). Spiritual revival is dependent on feeding on God’s Word. Let’s not develop spiritual anorexia nervosa where food is available but we do not allow it to nourish us. 3) Upholding Christ’s name. Would Jesus “autograph” or “endorse” the decisions we make, the way we live? “. . . . do all in the name of the Lord Jesus. . . .” An attitude of thankfulness runs a thread through this passage of scripture. If our lives lack this same attitude, we need to examine ourselves for a lack of involvement in these three areas. There were many visitors present for the occasion. A potluck followed the service. Sympathies are extended to the Aitken and Willis families. Heather Aitken passed away suddenly on Tuesday. April 29. The funeral was held on May 3 and a fellowship luncheon was served at Helen Cameron’s home after the funeral. Heather will be missed by many relatives and friends and especially her three children. Angie. Bruce and Vicki. Congratulations go out to Les Martens who graduated from Mountain View Bible College in Didsbury. Alta, on April 27. He received his Bachelor of Religious Education degree. A shower for two more newcomers was held on May 1. Gift money was collected for a stroller for baby Shanon and Ivy Plett and gifts were given to baby Danny and Margaret Thiessen.

GIDEONS HOSTED

Fisher Branch, Man.: An evening with the Gideons was hosted by our church. Some 100 people were present to enjoy a delicious chicken supper and an excellent program of testimony, songs, and reports. It is amazing to see the various ways the Spirit works in opening hearts to Christ. We are happy for the open doors in our area for this work of Scripture distribution. Our evening services from April 17 to 20 with Gladwin and Jean PIctt were a blessing. The services were centered on "The Family.” Mr. Plett spoke on family relationships - hus-

NEW MEMBERS RECEIVED

Calgary, Alta.: April 27 was a very special day for the Forest Grove congregation. We accepted thirteen new members, seven by membership transfer and six by baptism. Transferring from other churches were Agatha Wiebe. Henry and Susan Dueck. John and Nicole Friesen, and Rey and Eleanor Plett. Those accepting baptism were Jack Friesen. Wendy Dueck, Donita Thiessen, Rudy Dueck, Adam Friesen and Darcy Cameron. Pastor David Thiessen’s message was based on Colossians 3:15-17 He emphasized the fact that three main factors are involved in the growth of a believer: 1) Knowing the peace of God (v. 15) by making decisions based on whether they will increase or decrease the peace of God in our hearts.

Maritime Mennonite Retreat

Mennonites in the Atlantic Provinces (MAP) will have their 12th annual retreat on Saturday and Sunday, 23-24 August. The Cornerstone Community Church (M.B.). at 86 Penhorn Drive, Dartmouth, will host MAP ’86. Ewald and Linda Unruh are the pastoral couple. Herb Kopp, editor of the MB Heraid, Win nipeg, will be the featured speaker. His overall theme “At the Heart of The Gospel” will highlight Peace, Love, Service and Justice. Everyone in the MAP community is welcome, also tourists from the West who would like to arrange their travel accordingly. For further details contact: Peter Penner, Sackville, NB EGA 3C0.

THE MESSENGER

« «

band and wife, parents to children, children to parents, and closed off with the question. “How do we spend our time?" Gladwin gave us many practical tips on family life. Jean shared with the ladies during the Sunday school session and Glad win spoke at the Saturday Men’s Prayer Breakfast as well as the Communion Service on Sunday afternoon. We appreciated hav ing Mr. and Mrs. Plett visiting our homes. Friendship Bible Coffee has been started in Fisher Branch. According to reports, it is go ing very well. The Bible class teachers of our schools were hosted to a lovely Chinese supper on April 29. The evening was filled with exciting reports from the teachers. Bev Huff. Child Evangelism, was our guest speaker. She showed us the film “Children Crying on the Streets." depicting the needs of today’s children and teens. We have only begun to realize the great responsibility that is ours in reaching young people for Christ. A Clean-a-thon to raise funds for Beaver Creek Bible Camp turned out to be a success. The towns of Fisher Branch. Arborg. and Riverton got the benefit of a cleaner environ ment. while at the same time the camp re ceived some $8000 for their building project. The workers were served a barbecue supper in Arborg after all their hard work. On April 27 the film “Treasures in the Snow" was shown in our church. The lesson of forgiveness was vividly demonstrated in this story. That same evening we had a grocery shower for Brad and Bess Dowler, newlyweds who are fellowshipping with us. Brad is a teacher at the Pequis School. Congratulations to Adele Plett! She graduated from the Steinbach Bible College with her Diploma of Biblical Studies.

FAREWELL AND COMMISSIONING SERVICE HELD

Landmark, Man.: The lightning and rain did not keep the many friends and relatives from coming to the farewell service for the Bob Storey family at the Prairie Rose church the eve of Mother’s Day. It was gratifying. For the leaving missionaries this occasion was a milestone. This time, after serving in Thailand for fifteen years, they were not on ly going back as official members of our church, but also under the umbrella, blessing and support of the EMC Board of Missions as rightfully accepted missionaries. Brother Bob was heartily welcomed into the member ship February 9. 1986. Sister Adeline has been a faithful member since her baptism in her youth. Rev. Henry Klassen joined Pastor Plett in the commissioning prayer. Rev. Harvey Plett. chairman of the EMC Board of Missions, had words of encouragement and recognition. “You are setting a good model - you are focussing for us the urgency of the gospel." he said. His words to the “sending

MAY 16. 1986

Bob Storey and his mother, Mrs. Sarah Quinn, ofireiand, who visited the Storeys in Land mark in March.

ones" were. "Our work is not done in sen ding the Storeys; we are to be missionaries wherever we are." In their farewell thoughts Bob and Adeline mentioned the blessings and support they had received. “A house for us to stay in. a car to drive, and the school friends and teachers have been most accommodating." The warm fellowship and love of the church had been appreciated very much. The refreshments and fellowship after the service offered oppor tunities for the numerous people to say good bye. They expect to depart May 17.

Births THIESSEN — to Daniel and Margaret Thiessen of Calgary. Alta., a son. Danniel. on March 21. 1986. ENNS — to John and Elda Enns of Calgary. Alta.. a daughter. JoLynne Elizabeth, on April 1. 1986. PLETT — to Rod and Ivy Plett of Blackie. Alta., a daughter. Shanon Coleen Rose, on March 22. 1986. Correction: SCHELLENBERG - to Bob and Carol Schellenberg of Steinbach. Man., a son. Dustin Beau, on January 8. 1986.

Weddings GRIMEAU—HARDER: Dave, son of Bob and Madeline Grimeau of Calgary. Alta., was married on March 29. 1986 to Trudy, daughter of Abe and Sarah Harder of Calgary. The wedding took place at the Forest Grove United Church in Calgary, with Rev. Mullen of Calgary officiating. The couple is making their home in Calgary.

The Storeys will touch down in Ireland for about two months to visit their supporting home church and friends and Bob’s mother. Mrs. Sarah Quinn, who. by the way. visited them here in Canada in March. In Thailand they have been asked to minister to the New Tribes missionaries, numbering about thirty. Tribal work with Pwo Karen is the other op tion. Adeline is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Klaas P. Plett of Landmark, who did so very much for the Storey family to make their furlough an enjoyable one.

BOORMAN—STOESZ: Eric Stuart, son of Tony and Jean Boorman of Winnipeg. Man., and Patricia Ruth, daughter of John and Ellen Stoesz of Win nipeg. were married at the Braeside EMC on May 2. 1986. John Stoesz of Winnipeg officiated. The couple is making their home in Winnipeg. LUNDY-KLASSEN: Robert Lundy was married on March 1. 1986 to Roxane, daughter of Marvin and Helen Klassen of Portage la Prairie. Man. The wed ding took place at Highway Tabernacle with Rev. Cecil Nelson of Portage la Prairie officiating. The couple is residing in Portage la Prairie. NEUFELD-KORNELSEN: Larry John, son of Mary Neufeld of Arabella. Sask., and Brenda, daughter of Delmer and Betty Kornelsen of Riverton. Man.. were married on February 22. 1986. The wedding took place at the Mennville E.M. Church with Del Fast of Riverton. Man. officiating. The couple is making their home in Riverton. WIEBE-STOESZ: Kevin, son of Ben and Marina Wiebe of Oakbank. Man., was married on March 14. 1986 to Marjorie, daughter of John and Ellen Stoesz of Winnipeg. The wedding took place at the Braeside E.M. Church with John Stoesz of Win nipeg officiating. The couple is making their home in Winnipeg.

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From the Editor

Pentecost BY THE TIME this reaches you. Pentecost Sunday (May 18) will likely be a thing of the past. If you are like I am and are not reminded, you would probably not even notice it. I believe, however, that we do well to remember the day. Christmas is God sending His Son. Good Friday

and Easter are Christ giving His life and rising again. Pentecost is the coming of the Holy Spirit to abide with believers. As such, it is a significant day to remember. Our lead article today is a reminder to be spiritually in tune.

D.S.

Evangelism ARE WE seeing a revival of evangelism and church growth as a priority of the church? From some indica tions it seems so. One large Mennonite Conference is going to ask their delegates at a forthcoming convention to “affirm evangelism as the top priority of the Conference for the next three years.” With this also comes the request to fund this project. Recently the General Program Council of the Reform ed Church in America (RCA), among other things, pass ed a ten-year denominational plan for church growth. Another Mennonite body (Mennonite Church), with some 100.000 members in North America, at their General Assembly in 1985 adopted a ten-year witness and stewardship goal. They committed themselves to “pray and work toward” four goals. Among these were the following: double total witness efforts, add more than 500 congregations and increase membership by more than 50%. Faith Todat; (formerly Faith Aliue) reports in a news item. “The three largest Christian broadcasting organiza tions have pledged cooperation in an attempt to blanket the planet with the gospel by the year 2000.” The three networks are HCJB (Quito. Ecuador). Far East Broad casting Company, and Trans World Radio.

Then there is the Pavilion of Promise at Expo ’86 in Vancouver, set up by Crossroads Communications. Reportedly in their search for hosts and hostesses they are “looking for individuals to represent the church of Jesus Christ.” One hopes that this will become an option for many people who visit Expo. In addition to this we could mention the ongoing crusade work of Billy Graham and Barry Moore, to men tion two well-known ones. Last year marked the 25th year of Moore’s ministry. On the more local scene, I understand that evangelism is to be the main theme at the 1987 EMC annual con vention. This is good news. Maybe we should even make a faith commitment as some others have done. Our EMC Region 3 (Northern Fellowship Chapels) have announced the main theme for their 1986 conven tion (October 25-26 in Birch River) as “Our Church Can Grow.” That too is good news. I believe we need a positive outlook in an age when so much is competing for the minds of men. After all, among Jesus’ last recorded words (Mark 16:15) was His burden that the Gospel be preached to the whole creation. That there seems to be a concern and renewal of this mandate is cause for rejoicing.

D. S.

Revival AT THE Billy Graham Centre in Wheaton. Illinois one can see a poster which announces that the ministers of Boston got together to find the reasons for “religious decline in their communities." The list gave ten causes as reasons for this decline. Among them were the following: decay of godliness.

pride and extravagance of dress, intemperance, adultery, gaming and idleness, dishonesty, covetousness, and love of the world. The date when this happened? 1679! Times have not changed that much in 300 years, have

they?

D.S. Page 12

THE MESSENGER