The Messenger EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE
UNE 27/86 JUNE
VOL. 24 NO. 13
• What about the power of faith? • Church dedication
• Church profile
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This is the final article in a series of three on three different aspects of the Christian life. To day’s article examines biblical faith in contrast to what the author dubs as the new faith.
What About the Power of Faith? Final in a series of three by Arden Thiessen
FAITH! There is hardly a topic that could be more common, and of greater interest, to all religious people. It is uniformly understood that a person needs faith in order to live well. For many years, however, I have been disturbed by some of the preaching I have heard, and by some of the books I have read, on faith. Recent ly, a number of people have spoken to me of a similar concern. And so I write to explain what I see happening to the practice of Christian faith. I want to draw a contrast between a biblical faith and the new faith. (“The new faith” is the term I will use as a simple, convenient way of identifying an attitude that has been emerging in many Christian circles. Maybe someone else has a better label for it.) The biblical faith is a trust in an all-powerful God. The new faith is a power that cer tain believers have. The biblical faith is necessary because of our humanness and weakness. The new faith is an inner strength by which believers control their lives and the world around them. This new faith is also called by other names - Positive Thinking, P.M.A. (Positive Mental Attitude), Possibility 'Thinking. Some writers always write about it with a capital F, as if it were some kind of new deity. It is advocated by all kinds of people, TV preachers, faith healers, pastors, business managers, sales motivators, soap ped dlers, and athletic coaches. It brings together the strongest diversity of believers - charismatics, fundamen talists, liberals, and Eastern mystics. They have great theological differences, but at one point they all sound alike when they speak of faith. I must immediately explain that this is not supposed to be a tirade against positive thinking. In the first place, there is a kind of positive attitude that PAGE 2
is based upon confidence in God’s power and God’s promises. Such a positive attitude is biblical and wholesome. I also agree that being positive always has its benefits, even when it is not based on God’s promises. The hospital patient who expects to recover will heal faster than the one who ex pects to die. The athlete who believes he is the best will likely do better than the athlete who thinks of himself as a loser. I do not argue against the values of such optimistic thinking. And I would not call such thinking “sorcery,” as do the authors of a new best seller. The Seduction of Christianity. (This book, in my opinion, contains many inaccurate judgements and is too critical.) What I am saying is that this is not what the Bible means when it speaks of faith. And this is not the kind of faith we should preach in our churches. I am distressed by the fact that this new faith is being substituted for the biblical faith. Many don’t even notice the difference. Let me list, then, five characteristics of this new faith with which I find fault. Not everyone who holds to one of these points will necessarily practice each of the others. There is, however, an innate relationship between them, as you will notice. And the believer whose theological perspective allows him to ac cept one of these traits will likely be hospitable towards the others as well. • First, the new faith is marked by a preoccupation with health, wealth, and success. Does God promise you a rose garden? “You better believe it!” is the message that comes from many pulpits. These evangelists of success will tell you that God hasn’t made the gold and the diamonds for Satan’s people, that you can be as rich as you want to be, and that poverty, ill health, or lack of
success is dishonouring to God. But when Jesus speaks of this earthly life it sounds as if the rose garden will have mostly thorns. “In the world ye shall have tribulation.” I notice a marked change in the way we are viewing life. Our forefathers knew how to live with hardships, tragedies, sicknesses, and death. Now, however, these are aspects of life we cannot endure. It now seems that the main purpose of believing is to avoid such normal human experiences. Sometimes I wonder - is our obsession with health and wealth due to our un precedented prosperity? Are we trying to justify ourselves as we compare ourselves with the rest of the world? Is it that we feel less guilty if we can per suade ourselves that God wants us to be rich? The anomalies of this new faith are strange indeed. The Bible sees selfishness and self-love as the parent sin. Now faith is touted as the means by which to satisfy the most ex travagant lusts of man’s natural selfishness. The Bible teaches that the love of money is the root of all evil. The proponents of the new faith see the ag gressive, prayerful pursuit of wealth as one of the marks of wholesome Chris tian living. The Bible speaks of us as being strangers and pilgrims here. Now it is seen as our God-given right to own as much possible. The Bible refers to covetousness as the most blatant sign of human depravity. (Paul calls it idolatry.) Now anyone who does not believe in wealth is accused of “stinkin’ thinkin’.” Traditionally, the Bible was read to see how our souls could be sav ed. Now it is seen as a textbook of suc cess principles. • Secondly, the new faith is often guilty of an inconsistent, fragmentary use of the Scriptures. The new beliefs THE MESSENGER
The new faith does not recognize a sovereign God who makes the final decisions. Instead, it teaches us to visualize what we want and then demand it... may seem biblical on the surface, but on closer inspection they may be found to be based on little bits and pieces of Scripture that are used in a very selec tive manner. It is possible to have the mind full of fragments of biblical ideas, but not comprehend the total message. And sometimes these personally-chosen pieces of truth are begun to be seen as the whole truth. For example, the preacher may base an entire sermon on one line from Psalm 103:3, “ . . . Who heals all your diseases.” But he may never preach on Psalm 102, which is the anguished lament of a middle-aged believer who is sick and dying and whose only hope is that his children, at least, will continue to live after him. Biblical texts can be used in a decep tive manner; they can be used to teach error. Every responsible speaker of God’s message will want his sermon to reflect the total body of truth that God has revealed. I realize this is a difficult task. But I get the impression that the adherents of the new faith don’t try very hard. • Thirdly, the new faith reflects an unbiblical confidence in the power of the human mind. We are being taught that we must deny the power of anything to harm us. We must mentally remove every roadblock that keeps us from success. One popular writer says she learned to control her little children with her mind. This concept of power is best summed up by the famous dictum of W. Clement Stone, “Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve.” About twenty years ago I read the book by Napolean Hill, Think and Grow Rich. I read it because I was intrigued by the title; my heritage had taught me to work and grow rich. Anyway, I read it and dismissed it as being unimportant and unrealistic. Now, however. Hill is being quoted by gospel preachers as if he is a Christian brother, even though, as I remember it, there isn’t one biblical idea in the book. This new confidence in the power of thinking is a new kind of humanism. And it is ironical that some of the same people who have warned us about the
secular humanism taught in our univer sities are now teaching this new humanism as if it were biblical truth. This new faith is as blatantly and as crassly man-centered as anything we have yet seen. But many Christians ac cept it because it is dressed up in biblical words and symbols; they see it simply as a newer and more relevant in terpretation of Christian faith. • Fourthly, the preachers of the new faith often seem to hold to an Eastern, pantheistic view of the world. The pan theistic concept is that everything is one. We, nature, the universe, God, evil, all is one. God is in all and all is God. And we are an integral part of everything. And if you find it difficult to grasp this, it’s because you have been raised on a biblical world view, which sees a distinction between the Creator and creation, between us and the rest of creation, between good and evil. It is easy to see why the new faith tends to look with favour upon a pan theistic view of the world. It gives credence to the idea that matter can be controlled by our minds. In recent years it has been learned that a healthy mind is conducive to having a healthy body, and vice-versa. Our minds and bodies are not as distinct as used to be thought. We now understand quite readily that the mind can influence the body. Now, if we are one with everything, as the Eastern gurus teach, then mind-control over external matters makes sense too, because there are then no external matters anymore.
• Fifthly, the new faith ignores the sovereignty of God. The biblical message is that we are nothing without God and that we have nothing that has not been received from Him. God is the giver of all good gifts - health, wealth, salvation, spiritual gifts, joy and peace. And in His sovereign wisdom He decides what to give, when to give, and how much to give. When God gives, it is always out of pure grace. He does not give because we have earned or deserved any gifts. He gives because in His divine love He
wants to give what is best for us. The new faith does not recognize a sovereign God who makes the final deci sions. Instead, it teaches us to visualize what we want and then demand it; we have the right to take charge of our own lives. And this is a pagan attitude. Most pagan people see the gods as powers that they must bribe, manipulate, cajole, or persuade to be nice to them. Every chicken sacrifice or rain dance is a technique for getting what they want from their gods. The rituals of the witch doctor are supposed to generate enough power of magic to convince the gods that they better be kind. The practice of the new faith is not much different. The apostle Paul spoke of the pagans of his day, “who worshipped and served the creature rather than the Creator” (Rom. 1:25). At that time the objects of worship were figures of frogs, snakes, or bulls. Now, the creature that is wor shipped is the human person with his innate powers. And the outcome of this new faith? It turns the believer into a god and changes the real God into man’s servant. How do you believe, the biblical way or the new way? Biblical faith is a faith in God. The new faith is a power directed at God. A biblical faith contains an essential element of humility and yieldedness. The new faith is a technique for taking charge and gaining control of ourselves and everything else that is important to US.
A biblical faith sees God as the gracious King whom we worship. The new faith sees Him as the dispenser of blessings to all those who have learned to manage Him. A biblical faith has to be deeply and profoundly aware of the marvelous grace of God. The new faith has no need for grace at all. The biblical view is that God is the source of all power. We are not healed by our faith; God is the Healer. We are not saved by our faith; Christ is the Saviour. Our faith is merely that at titude which allows God to work in our lives. It is our trust that permits Him to save us, heal us, and bless us as He chooses. And any teaching that transfers this power and this authority to ourselves must be viewed with grave concern, because it strikes at the very heart of the biblical revelation. The biblical view is not that there is power in our faith, but that there is power in God. ■
THE MESSENGER is published every other week by The Evangelical Mennonite Conference, Board of Education and Publication, Box 1268, Steinbach, 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.
JUNE 27, 1986
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The church choir singing at the dedication service.
Church Dedication By Dave Schellenberg Sunday, June 22, was a day of celebration at the Pleasant Valley E.M. Church. The oc casion was the dedication service of their new sanctuary. “We count this a tremendous privilege,” said Pastor Friesen in his welcome. “We have looked forward to this,” he continued. "Finally the day has arrived.” Reading from I Kings 8, his prayer was “that the glory of the Lord would fill this place." According to Ken Loewen, who gave the Building Committee report, September 26, 1984 was the date when they decided to em bark on this building program. Sod turning took place on October 24 of that same year.
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Thousands of hours of voluntary labour went into the building. To assist the Building Com mittee with its work was an auxiliary building committee made up of three ladies. Also serving with brief presentations were the two hired building supervisors. Art Cor nelsen and Jake Cornelscn. Ernie Loewen, after he had invited the building committee and the auxiliary building committee to the platform, handed out gifts of appreciation to those involved. The dedicatory message was given by Mr. Arden Thiessen, E.M. Conference moderator. He explained that he found it dif ficult to speak about a building because the
New Testament never mentions church buildings. Whenever it speaks of the church, it always refers to people. His address thus emphasized the church as people rather than a building. From a text out of I Peter 2, and especially verse 10, “now you are a people of God,” he pointed out the characteristics of the peo ple of God: 1. They are like newborn babes. 2. They are living stones. 3. They are a spiritual priesthood to offer spiritual sacrifices. 4. They are a special people to proclaim the acts of God. Special music was supplied by a choir, male quartet and a men's octet. Area pastors conveying greetings were Johnny Loewen {Rosenort EMC). Stan Plett (Rosenort Fellowship), and Wilbert Friesen (Roseisle E.M. Church). As well, Ed and Joy Loewen (Pakistan) and Dave and Susie Eidse (Mexico) sent greetings. The financial report gave the estimated cost of the church and furnishings as $325,000 (does not include volunteer labour) with jestimated receipts from donations and offer ings at $240,000. Seating capacity of the new sanctuary is some 250. The lower auditorium will seat about the same number for fellowship meals. Following the service a delicious lunch was served to the guests. CONTRIBUTORS:
"What About the Power of Faith?” is the third in a series by Arden Thiessen, pastor of the Stein bach E.M. Church Elmer and Tina Barkman '(Blumenort) are serving as dorm parents and school base coordinators at a New Tribes Mission School in Venezuela. COVER: Pleasant Valiev new church.
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Pleasant Valley church octet had a special number at the church dedication. Left to right: Ken Loewen, Brian Friesen, Danny Loewen, Leo Reimer, Jake Cornelsen, Levi Remple, Les Siemens and Allan Reimer. THE MESSENGER
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^Hb^iSra Church quartet (Rick Friesen, Randy Siemens, Ed Rempel and Rudy Loewen) singing at the church dedication.
The basement dining area can seat around 250 peopie.
Twenty-five Years This Year
Pleasant Valley Church Profile By Dave Schellenberg THE PLEASANT VALLEY E.M. Church was named after the school district of the same name. Pleasant Valley. The mother church of this newer congregation (1962) is the Rosenort EMC, located some 4^ miles to the southeast. The church was conceived and born as a result of a room problem at the Rosenort EMC. It became a question of building or dividing. After some discussion, the opinion seemed to favour the possibility of Sunday school facilities as well as a place of worship for this western area. Investigations were continued and when they received an offer to purchase the Homewood Bergthaler Church building, they felt this was a go-ahead for them. As noted before, some 4V2 miles separated the two churches. Who would go where? They decided to make a geographical boundary about half a mile west of the Prin cipal Meridian. Through the years, though, this boundary has been somewhat bluned. The building was purchased in December 1961 and moved onto a basement prepared for it. The first service was also held in December. The Rosenort EMC agreed to pay one third of the purchase price of $3000.00. The following year, June 24, 1962, an organizational meeting took place, with Dave Eidse (a minister at the Rosenort EMC) elected as leader and Nick Eidse elected as deacon. Sixty-five members were officially registered. Plans for this new church district were made in full cooperation with the Rosenort EMC. They were the outcome of an overcrowding problem. JUNE 27, 1986
In 1968, in a renovation project, a front en trance was added to the church. Another pro ject to take care of a room problem was the addition of a bungalow in 1978 to be used for Sunday school. Through the years the ministerial was ex panded. Frank Friesen was elected into the ministry and ordained on September 23, 1964. Bill Friesen was elected as the second
deacon and ordained on May 12, 1974. In 1976 Pastor Dave Eidse resigned; he and his wife were planning to go to Mexico as missionaries. To replace him as pastor they elected Frank Friesen. Ernie Loewen was elected as an additional minister. When the Loewens prepared to go to Paraguay as mis sionaries in 1980, an election saw Bert Kornelsen chosen as minister (1979). Mr. Kornelsen serves as assistant pastor in the Pleasant Valley church. The pastor’s term is reviewed every three years with a vote. Mid term they have a pastor evaluation. I imagine that their biggest project to date has been the construction of a brand new church. This project itself, and the starting of it, had to overcome a few significant hurdles.
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The Pleasant Valley church ministerial consists of the deacons and ministers of the church. Left to right: Mary Ann and Ernie (minister) Loewen, Mary and Nick (deacon) Eidse, Elma and Bert (assistant pastor) Kornelsen, Helen and Bill (deacon) Friesen, Frank (pastor) and Nettie Friesen. PAGE 5
The new Pleasant Valley church sanctuary seats some 250 people.
In the spring of 1984 they had a buyer for their old building and they felt this was their go-ahead - the will of God. Then came the July 8 tornado. This was a blow (Pleasant Valley is a rural church) but it did not discourage going on with plans. Four weeks later the hail came and the project was called off. However, after a better-than-expected harvest, they again decided to go ahead after all. A sod-turning ceremony took place in Oc tober. Although winter was approaching, the concrete could be poured without frost, prompting Pastor Friesen to remark, “That was amazing.” Nevertheless, they exper ienced severe cold the day the rafters were put in place. Lots of volunteer labour went into the building. However, two supervisors were hired. The move into the new building (November 17, 1985) “was quite exciting,” according to Pastor Friesen. (The Sunday school had already moved in prior to this because the
bungalow was moved away in July.) So much of history. What about the pre sent congregtion and its work? This church, which began with 65 members, today has 100 members. This may look like a small increase. But the picture changes when one thinks of all the lives that have been touched by this church. People have come and gone. Some found themselves helping to start new churches (Swan River, Birch River, to name some). The church is not discouraged when people leave for this reason. However, attendance figures show some 150 in the Sunday morning service and around 145 enrolled in Sunday school. Administratively, the church’s spiritual care ministry is headed up by the ministerial, which consists of the pastor, ministers, and deacons. The six-member Missions Committee looks after Vacation Bible School, children’s camp and the missionary conference. The church also has an outreach program in the form of institutional ministry in places
like the Carman Hospital, Boyne Lodge, Union Gospel Mission and Eventide Home, to name some. Special meetings are held in spring and fall - evangelistic in spring and missions con ference or deeper life in fall. They were also encouraged by an extension course taught by Steinbach Bible College in their church. Par ticipation was excellent, according to Pastor Friesen. Credits were available. Another church event in 1985 was the "Your Church Can Grow” meetings taught by Ed Friesen, Conference Pastor. The hope and prayer is that the church, through this event, will become a more effective witness in the world. The ladies are divided into two groups, the Sewing Circle and Ladies’ Fellowship. Ladies were also represented on the building com mittee as an auxiliary when the new church was being built. As mentioned before, the Pleasant Valley
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H's strawberry time at the Henry Bartels farm. We received a hearty welcome here. Mrs. Bartel Is in the Cheer Committee at the Pleasant Valley church. Looks like Renelda Is a good helper at home.
Church is a rural church. The closest center is Rosenort, some 472 miles distant. Morris lies some 12-13 miles to the east and south. And so one would expect to have a good number of farmers in the congregation, which they have. However, in so many instances one finds that the farmer may also have an auxiliary means of livelihood. (Or maybe it’s the other way around. The electrician may also farm!) Following are some of the occupations of the members of this church: Farming seems to definitely come first. (Pastor Friesen was a farmer until quite recently.) Then there are occupations like mechanic, carpenter, trucker, manufacturer, clerk, manager, welder, nurse, etc. Looking at the list, 1 cannot help but think that this church has a vast reservoir of pracPAGE 6
THE MESSENGER
SOME PLEASANT VALLEY MEMBERS IN THE WORKPLACE.
Kim Friesen is a teller at the Rosenort Credit Union. She has been there about a year. She teaches Primary I in the Pleasant Valley Sunday school.
Clarence Dueck is office manager at River bend Feed Mills, Ltd. in Rosenort. He has been here some 12 years. Clarence is on the church board at Pleasant Valley.
Danny Loewen was spraying forbroad leaf weeds when we intercepted him. Danny is a two-career person, also operating DKL Enter prises. He teaches in the Junior Department in Sunday School.
tical knowledge and skills. I think this stood them in good stead when the new church was being built. The church’s interest in foreign missions is evidenced by those who have gone out in this service. Dave and Susie Eidse went to Mex ico in 1976, Ed and Joy Loewen to Pakistan in 1978 and Ernie and Mary Ann Loewen to Paraguay around 1980. (The latter are home now on extended furlough.) Rachel (Bartel) Jantzen served a short term in Africa (1982-84).
Musically, the church seems very well equipped - choir, octet, men’s quartet (a new quartet), men’s choir, trios and girls’ choir (ac cording to the 1985 Yearbook). To give one a further idea of the activities of this church, the yearbook lists reports such as Christian Fellowship Committee, College and Career, Ladies’ Fellowship, Eventide Home, SBC, Morris Self-Help, Missions Committee, Music and Youth. What about the future? Last fall they finish ed the “Your Church Can Grow” program.
Strong points and weak points of the church came out, according to Pastor Friesen. Even though outreach seems to be dwindling, at present they want to keep it up in the surroun ding towns. With the new enlarged facilities they may also attract more people from the community. We wish this church well as it seeks to build the kingdom of God where the Lord has plac ed it.
Introducing 1986 Annual EMC Convention Themes The 1986 annual convention (July 4-6) will feature four speakers, each one addressing a part of the main theme, “Following Christ in a ‘Friend ly’ World.” We have asked each speaker to give a brief preview of his message for Messenger readers. The first of these previews appeared in the May 2, 1986 Messenger. \/^e have the final one today. The Christian and Sexual Morality by David Thiessen
We are living today in a sex-drenched society. The contemporary worship
at the shrine of sex has reached pro portions that make some of the recorded idolatries in Old Testament history pale in comparison. Few, if any, Christians in western society will be able to escape the effects of living in a sexually seductive culture. Therefore, in our personal lives and in our corporate bodies, we need to grapple with the challenge of sexual
JUNE 27, 1986
Therefore, in our personal lives and in our corporate bodies, we need to grapple with the challenge of sexual morality. One convention message will not be able to deal with all the issues and questions a topic like this brings to mind. However, perhaps it can offer some guidance and encouragement along the way as we seek to bring our sexuality under the lordship of Christ. The following are the areas I plan to give some atten tion to in my convention address: 1) Some assessment of the sexual thought and prac tice in our society and what some of the dangers and temptations are for God’s people. 2) A Biblical framework for understanding, ap preciating and expressing our God-given sexuality, whether married or single. 3) Guidelines for Christians in dealing with forbidden sexual desires. 4) Holding out hope and help for those who have liv ed outside of God’s guidelines for sexual morality. Our sexuality is one of God’s beautiful gifts to us, whether we are called to be single or married. We want to gratefully and prayerfully grow in our stewardship of this gift.
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Missions VENEZUELA
Why Missionaries? Why didn’t you come sooner? Why are we in Venezuela? Why are we in volved in the job of reaching the tribal Indians with the gospel? I’d like to answer this ques tion with a true story that was told to me by a fellow missionary, Joe Dawson, as it hap pened to him. Hearing about the missionaries that had settled down in TAMA TAMA to learn the In dian language, an elderly Guica Indian man sent his son to the missionary to ask him to come and teach their people. He travelled many days on the river to TAMA TAMA, just to hear Joe Dawson tell him that there were not enough missionaries so that one could move to their village to teach them. When this elderly Indian man heard this, he thought to himself, maybe this missionary doesn’t want to come because we live too far away. So, he had the whole village move closer to TAMA TAMA. Then he sent his son to the missionary again with the same question, “Will you come and teach us?” He came back to his father with the same answer, “Not enough mis sionaries to go around.” He was still thinking that they lived too far away for the missionary. Therefore, they moved closer. This happen ed a number of times. Finally Joe Dawson, having learned the Guica Indian language, took his family and moved to their village. By this time this Guica man was very old and feeble. Joe asked him, “Why did you want us to come?” He answered, “A long, long time ago, when I was a young boy, there was a big fire here in the jungle. Everything burned. My father told me that some day the whole world would burn just like that. I don’t want to burn in that fire. So, when 1 heard about you missionaries, I thought surely you must have the answer as to how to escape that fire.” Joe told him that Jesus, God’s Son, came to this earth and died on the cross in payment for his sins. If he would accept what Jesus had done, he would escape the fires of hell. Just before this old man died, he accepted the Lord. Some of the other Guica Indians became Christians too. One young mother came to Joe and asked, “How long have you and your people known about Jesus and that He paid the penalty for sin so we can have eternal life?” Joe answered, “For many, many years.” The lady responded, “If you have known this good news for so long, why didn’t someone come and tell us sooner? My mother died. She never had the opportunity to ac cept Him as her Saviour. Where is she now? Why, why didn’t you come sooner?” Tina Barkman
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Look on the Fields The EMC Board of Missions presents the following personnel needs for your prayerful consideration. Is the Lord call ing you?
•Edmonton: A church-planting pastor to commence September 1, 1986.
•Germany. A church planter to assist the Gladwin Pletts in a youth and music ministry. •Ft. Frances, Ont.: A younger couple to give leadership to a small group already meeting in regular Bible studies, with the intent to start a church. • Lundar, Man.: A church planter to begin this fall. A potential core group is ready to start.
•Mt. Salem, Ont.: A minister in train ing to assist in youth and music ministries. •Paraguay: 1. A nurse for East Paraguay 2. A nurse for the Chaco 3. A church planter for the capital city of Asuncion
•Mexico: Missionaries for church planting. For more information on any of the above write or call: Henry Klassen or Ben Friesen EMC Board of Missions Box 1268 Steinbach, Manitoba ROA 2A0
Mission Grams Pakistan — Ellen Brell reports a busy time in her role in administration at the Bach Christian Hospital. She writes, “God has sent busy days one after the other, but the needed strength has come, too. He is faithful and worthy of our praise for His loving care of His own.” Mexico — Ken and Vai Zacharias and Landis Friesen, who completed one semester of Spanish language studies, are spending the summer in Mexico. Pray for them as they are exposed to Latin culture and have the opportunity to practice their Spanish. In August they return to language studies at RGBI. Randall Krahn reports that he has five young people in a training class, studying “The Abundant Life.” Eight persons are enrolled in a SEAN Homiletics class at Camp 77. Peter Hiebert is instructing this course. Paraguay — David and Judith Schmidt praise the Lord for the Indian people who have been changed by the Gospel in a neighbouring settlement that they visit regular ly. Pray with them for a breakthrough on the Sta. Teresa settlement. Conflict has been experienced in the settlement regarding land. •Doris Friesen, coordinator of the public health program in East Paraguay, reports that as a result of the PH Program the Minister of Health has offered their assistance and support for the program. The local health promoter is recognized by the Health Department. Doris is investigating the possibility of expanding the PH program into another area. •John and Leona Reimer report on blessed experiences in their involvement in Tres Palmas/Lucero. They are assisting the pastor of the German church. The Reimers plan to return to Canada in early August. •Linda Penner reports that the Lengua store burned in late April. Some important records were lost. She also reports that a tragic death on Good Friday has been in strumental in the conversion of two men. Pray for Linda and her co-worker, Betty Friesen, as they meet up with difficult medical cases at La Esperanza. •Abram Giesbrecht reports that Ramon Diaz, national church evangelist, is busy as he ministers in the various churches. Ramon is making positive contributions to the church in East Paraguay. Pray for him and his family who live in Caaguazu.
THE MESSENGER
Messenger News STEADY MIGRATION OF MENNONITES CONTINUES
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WINNIPEG, Man. - Since their beginning in the 16th century, Mennonites of European origin have been a moving people. The reasons for moving from one country or col ony to another included religious persecution, unavailability of land for their offspring and fear of losing their traditional life style. At times, adventure might have been a reason for moving, too. Government interference with their “Selbstverwaltung” (self-administration), in cluding their private schools, and the scarcity of land were the main reasons for Mennonite movements from Canada to Mexico, to Paraguay, Bolivia and Belize during the past 65 years. Throughout all these years, individual Men nonite families and at times small groups have been moving back to Canada. But recently there seems to be a mini-exodus of Men nonites from Latin American countries back to Canada. Those coming from Belize settled largely in Nova Scotia, those from Mexico and Paraguay mainly in Manitoba and Ontario. There are fewer coming from Bolivia, but those that do come prefer the latter two pro vinces, while some move to Alberta. It has been estimated that at the current rate between 500 and 1,000 Mennonites from the Bergthal and Menno colonies in Paraguay will move to Canada this year. The number of Mennonites moving to Canada from Mexico in 1986 might even be greater. Although it is difficult to narrow down just one reason for these emigrations, many im migrants cite as their main motive the poor economic situation prevailing in the southern countries. Others are trying to get away from a strictly controlled way of life. The uncertainty of the future, especially with regards to the “Priviligien” (privileges of freedom from conscription, self administration, etc., given to Mennonites by special agreement with the governments of Bolivia and Mexico), seems to be another fac tor that encourages emigration. The fact that it is becoming more difficult for younger Men nonite men in Mexico to obtain a passport without first signing the so-called “military card” also contributes to these emigrations. A large percentage of Kanadier Mennonites in Latin America still have access to Canadian citizenship, but it is getting to be more difficult for many to obtain the necessary documents to immigrate to Canada, mainly because for many years parents in Mexico and Paraguay didn’t care to register their children as Cana dian citizens. MCC Canada provides a number of JUNE 27, 1986
ministries to Kanadier Mennonites both in Canada and abroad. Workers in Ontario and Manitoba assist with immigration and citizen ship applications and help with social and practical adjustments. They also find oppor tunities to counsel with those newcomers who may be experiencing severe struggles with marriage and family life. Die Mennonitische Post, an MCCsponsored newspaper published in Steinbach. Manitoba, is a lively forum for communica tion between Mennonites recently returned to Canada and those remaining in colonies throughout Latin America. As a rare means of sharing news and information, the Post is greatly appreciated by its more than 6,000 subscribers and the many others who read borrowed copies. An important sideline of the Post is book sales, mostly Christian literature and about half in the German language. Since 1980, some $200,000 worth of books have been sold, providing a boon to literacy and Chris tian education in several farflung parts of the Kanadier Mennonite world. Isbrand Hiebert The writer has served for the past year as assistant with Overseas Services, MCC Canada, with responsibilities for the Kanadier Concerns program.
NEW SOVIET LEGISLATION ON RELIGION AND CHURCH LIFE NEUWIED. West Germany — For some time now there have been rumors in the Soviet Union that changes on legislation for churches would soon be forthcoming. The latest issue of the Journal of the Moscow Patriarchate clearly suggests that revisions are indeed underway. “The Rights and Responsibilities of Religious Associations” states that “religious association shall consist of citizens of a region,” and not, as was the case before, simply a local group of 20 citizens over the age of 18. This means that a group could constitute itself even if spread over a considerable area in a rural district as long as they had the required number and age, consistent with the older established regulations. The most significant change may be the recognition of congregations as legal bodies or “juridical persons.” The older legislation did not give this recognition, at least in practice. The new legislation spells out that congregations may own property, rather than merely lease it under an arrangement with the state. Buildings would come under the definition of “property,” as would articles used in worship. The new regulations state also that a “religious community may invite clergy to con duct services and prayer meetings openly.”
Notice The Board of Education and Publication appreciated the services of Walter Kruse as editor-designate of the Messenger. However, due to personal reasons, he has resigned, and therefore the Board invites applications for the above position. At present Dave Schellenberg is continuing to fill the position of editor. The Board is also looking for a new Christian Education Director. En quiries concerning job descriptions and applications may be directed to the following address; EMC Board of Education and Publication Box 1268 Steinbach, Man. ROA 2A0 Phone: (204) 326-6401 This relates to the involvement of nonlocals in conducting religious services. Such a rul ing may be especially helpful to groups such as Baptists or Pentecostals who may wish to invite foreign visitors or individuals from other regions of the country to participate in their services. There is also a reference to the participa tion of children in religious services. The arti cle states that “believing citizens, including children up to the age of 10. may be volun tary participants in conducting religious rituals.” Present legislation does not include reference to the age of 10. Indeed the question of involving children under the age of 18 in church services has been a source of tension in some communities, and the application of a minimum age limit in congregations has been ambiguous and at times inconsistent throughout the country. Setting a “minimum age” in this way may lead to welcome changes in the lives of families of believers and congregations where they worship. For children under 10 the earlier legislation remains in force. They may not be involved in religious rituals, presumably including christenings, without their parents’ consent. This has earlier been widely interpreted to mean that children ought not to be taken to services at all. It seems clear that the Soviet government is pursuing a more realistic policy toward churches and believers. It is a step in the direction of providing more fully the freedom guaranteed in the Soviet constitution as far as the separation of church and state is concerned. Lawrence Klippenstein, MCC worker in Neuwied, West Germany.
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Baptism and reception of members at the Braeside church. Front row (left to right): Catherine Kroeker, Tracy Hiebert, Kendra Bartel, Debbie Fehr, Doris Loewen, Esther Loewen, Patti Boorman, Karen Neufeld. Second and third rows: Pastor John and Ellen Stoesz, Gerry and Blanca Dueck, Henry and Joyce Dueck, Neil and Agatha Friesen, Ben and Kathy Loewen, Wilma Thiessen, Helen Fast, Don Thiessen, Henry Fast, Mark Peters, Caroil and Erwin Kroeker (assistant pastor).
SPIRITUAL BLESSINGS ENJOYED Braeside (Winnipeg): On the evening of April 13 twenty-one people gave a testimony of the Lord’s leading in their lives. That same evening eleven of these were accepted into, the membership of our church by transfer and testimony. On Sunday, April 20, ten people were baptized. A communion service and ac-
ceptance of these new members took place in the evening. After the evening service we had a time of fellowship and refreshments downstairs. We praise God for this wonderful day and for each addition to our Braeside family.
MISSIONARIES REPORT
Fred and Irene Buhler and daughters, Alicia and Nicole. Hudson Bay, Sask.: Fred and Irene Buhler, missionaries to Paraguay, hosted an infor mation night at a Sunday evening service, June 8. Fred is the son of Bill and Anne Buhler and Irene’s parents are Aron and Betty Reimer, all of Hudson Bay. Fred and Irene were married in July of 1982 and went to language school in Texas that fall for a year of studies. They went to Paraguay in 1983 where they lived and worked until their furlough in April of this year. Both of their
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daughters, Alicia (almost two) and Nicole (nine months), were born in Paraguay. A display of various Paraguayan souvenirs was set up for visitors’ viewing and Irene had prepared some Paraguayan bread and tea for sampling. The evening began with some chorus singing followed by the opening by Pastor Kornelsen. Fred confided that their first impression was, “We don’t need to be here, the country is full of missionaries.” Fred continued by say ing, “After two or three months we began to wonder, ‘What are we doing?’ ” They felt this way because at first they did not have a specific ministry. The Buhlers’ main work in Paraguay is church planting. There are 160 baptized believers (five groups) in their area. Fred is heavily involved in film ministries of an evangelistic nature. Mini-crusades are held where an evangelistic film is shown and a na tional preacher gives a message. Between 200 and 300 people gather to see the film and hear the message. Fred works mostly in the technical areas, setting up and ensuring that the film runs smoothly. When Fred and Irene began their work they started with seven peo ple who regularly attended their services. The attendance dwindled down to only one regular attendant, much to their discourage ment. But at the time of fheir furlough, atten dance had returned to 12 and had gone to
as high as 20. Fred reported that there are not a lot of conversions but there are results. They have seen a family, as well as others, turn to the Lord. The Buhlers showed slides of the country they work in, illustrating their way of life. They live in Caaguazu, a new city with 12,000 residents. Although it is a new city, it is not modern, with dirt streets and wood houses. The city sprang up because of the logging in dustry. Cotton, corn and other crops are harvested, often by hand, and contribute to the country’s economy. The Buhlers found good prices on fruits and vegetables and quite a varied selection. They even have a grapevine and other citrus fruits in their back yard. Bill and Anne Buhler, who spent a year in Paraguay in mission work during Fred and Irene’s term, joined their son and daughterin-law in performing a skit about missionary life, using some true-to-life experiences. Fred sang a song in Spanish and Guarani, the two principal languages of the country, and had the assembled congregation join in on the Guarani chorus. “One term is not long enough to do a fruit ful work; it is a learning time. If we had gone for only one term it might have been a failure,” said Fred. “But the second term is more profitable.” Their second term will con sist of the same duties, with some changes because there are new workers. Fred’s work in the film ministries will be confined more to the country than the city. Fred also hopes to study some Guarani when he returns to Paraguay. The Paraguayan people are, in many ways, like the people in Canada. The same pro blems are in evidence everywhere. Fred and Irene feel long-range mission work is needed to make changes in Paraguay. Are the Buhlers looking forward to their return to Paraguay in January of 1987? Yes, they are excited about continuing God’s work in the country to which He has called them.
k
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Quellenkononie Reunion A Quellenkolonie reunion will be held April 26, 1987 at the Steinbach Bible College, Steinbach, Manitoba. All one-time residents are especial ly invited to a day of worship, fellowship and reminiscing. Other in terested people are also welcome. Voluntary items will be ap preciated. More detailed an nouncements will follow. Committee members: Willie B. Dueck, Jake K. Friesen, Abram R. Reimer. Inquiries to be directed to A.R. Reimer, Box 36, Blumenort, Man. ROA OCO. THE MESSENGER
I
"t:
Baptism and membership reception at the La Crete church on March 23. Back row (left to right): Pastor Charles Koop, Philip Wiebe, Leonard Meunier, Ben Schlamp, Frank Goertzen, Menno Hamm (minister). Front: Susan Watters, Eva Meunier, Anna Marie Schlamp, Tina Goerizen.
BULDING PROJECT BEGUN LaCrete, Alta.: “O, that men would praise the Lord for His goodness and for His wonderful works to the children of men!” (Psalm 107:8). Exciting things are happening at La Crete! The church is growing inside as well as out side. Pastor Koop had been going through the Christian Life classes with a group during the winter and they were enjoyed by everyone. They were held during the Wednesday Family Night, while the rest of the group gathered in various homes for Bible studies from January till Easter. After Easter, for six weeks, everyone (12 and up) viewed the film series “Strengthening Your Grip” by Charles Swindoll on Wednesday nights, while the children went downstairs for stories and singing. On March 23 we were happy to welcome several members into our church. Baptized were Leonard and Eva Meunier, Frank and Tina Goertzen and Susan Watters. Others ac cepted into membership were Philip Wiebe and Ben and Anna Marie Schlamp. Frank
and Nettie Fehr took the classes together with this group but because they were away in March they were received into membership on May 18. We praise the Lord for the way He has worked in each of their lives to bring them to Him. The ground-breaking ceremony for our building project took place on April 20 and work started the next day. The basement and floor are now completed and construction of the building is starting. Larry Dueck from Red Deer is in charge of the whole project with a few hired men and all the volunteer help we can get. We’re looking to God for guidance and safety, so the men have decided to meet for a prayer breakfast every Monday morn ing before the work for the week begins. Of course, the ladies are behind them as well and they are taking turns bringing something for the men’s coffee breaks. We have a busy sum mer ahead but are looking forward to all the added room.
*
Frank and Nettie Fehr were accepted into the membership of the La Crete church on May 18.
PARENTS - A GIFT FROM GOD
Riverton, Man.: Our church has enjoyed many activities throughout the year which are planned for all to participate in and enjoy the fellowship of believers. Taking a brief backward glimpse, I recognize such an event on April 27. The title, “Mystery Faspa and Video Participation Night,” was enough to arouse the interest of many who came to par ticipate. The evening was delightful with laughter and a few “oh no’s” from dismayed people who had guessed wrong. Many had to eat jello with a knife or test their skills at cutting meat with a dessert spoon! But we all certainly did enjoy the three-course meal even if it was not all ordered in order, but that was part of the excitement. Later we all gathered to watch the video, which ended the even ing beautifully! Our warm congratulations go to Jenny Von Gunten who graduated on April 27 from CMBC, with a Bachelor of Theology degree. She has left for Japan to serve and we wish her God’s blessing. Our parents are beautiful gifts from God and we should be thankful for them much more often than on Mother’s and Father’s Day. The congregation really appreciated the way in which Pastor Del acknowledged our mothers and fathers this year. On both days. May 11 and June 15, Pastor Del gave a very fitting message and ended with a dedication prayer. The messages, “Character Study of Mary” and “Duties of a Father,” were an en couragement. The mothers and fathers were invited to the front as an act of dedication to the Lord. Let us never forget how God has blessed us with Christian leaders like our parents.
The building pro/ect is in progress at the La Crete Christian Fellowship. JUNE 27, 1986
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CRAFTS AND BAKE SALE HELD
Creighton, Sask.: On May 3 the Mary Mar tha Mission (women’s group) held a combin ed MCC Third World Crafts and bake sale. The sale raised funds for MCC's self-help crafts and child sponsorship programs. It also brought many new people inside NFC chapel walls and allowed us to introduce ourselves. A week later NFC was host to the Region 3 Ministerial Meeting. Leaders from Endeavour. Pelly, Kamsack, Hudson Bay, Birch River and Swan River cam up. Dennis and Amanda Anderson, NCEM workers on the Big Eddy Reserve near The Pas, also participated in the regional meeting. On June 15 John Barkman of Grace Mis sion in Henderson, Nebraska shared on Sun day morning, showing slides of the mission's church planting in Mexico and children’s home in Haiti. For an 87-year-young man he showed enormous energy. May the Lord grant safe travelling this sum mer to all. If you want to know where to travel, come on up!
older brother and others, but remained hum ble and loving through it all. A richly mean ingful presentation, it was also quite humorous at times. Graduating from Bible colleges this year are Evangeline and Josephine Friesen from Prairie, Brenda Dueck and Darren Reimer from Briercrest, and Sheryl Reimer from Canadian Bible College. Back home from the mission field are Jake and Bertha Kroeker and family and Dora Friesen. The latter’s stay will be very brief, and is primarily to visit her ailing mother. Jake and Bertha are anticipating two weddings in their family and will be very busy with preparations and other duties. Mary Loewen is home from Rio Grande Bible Institute (language studies). Our youth group had a fund-raising “Cleanathon” the evening of May 5, which resulted in a great deal of good being ac complished in a short time. The next day the Ladies’ Fellowship had a “Mother and Daughter Tea” where a River ton group of ladies sang and Mrs Fran Harms had a delightful talk on “Worth Loving? That’s You!”
GOD HAS SPOKEN Mennville, Man.: On May 26 Lydia Barkman, wife of Frank Barkman, passed away after a short illness. Just a few hours later, Mary Kehler, wife of John Kehler, and a sister-in-law to Lydia Barkman, also pass ed away after a lengthy bout with cancer. Funeral services were held Thursday, May 29, for Mary Kehler and on Friday, May 30, for Lydia Barkman, both at the Mennville church. These were the third and fourth wife and mother in a row to be taken from a family here at Mennville. It is in times like these that we realize how short life really is. Who will be next? You? 1? New residents in this area are the Melvin Freemans and the Jim Penners. We welcome them to this area. Jim Penner brought a sermonette at our Christian Endeavour program on May 25. We were again privileged to have the Gospel Echoes Team from Ontario in our church on June 12. The church was filled to capacity to hear them speak, sing and play.
BAPTISM AND ACCEPTANCE OF MEMBERSS
Rosenort, Man.: The Ernie Loewen family served at our Mission Night on April 27 with songs, slides and report, dealing especially with the work of Radio ZP-30 in Paraguay. We were glad to see them all so enthusiastic in spite of some serious health problems. A group of Millar Memorial Bible Institute students presented the drama, “The Long Road Home,” on May 1. The returned pro digal son encountered opposition from his PAGE 12
Two Bible study classes of young marrieds went to Woodlands' senior citizens’ lodge on May 7, sharing and caring. They were made to feel very welcome. Our own Eventide Home held a Mother’s Day banquet and in vited all those 60 years old and over to share it with them. Music was provided by the Derksen “sisters” of Winnipeg. Laura Bergstresser was guest soloist at our morning worship service on May 18. She sings with great clarity and feeling, and was a real blessing to us. Nick Friesen shared the Word with a message on “Pentecost.” Our choir served at the Union Gospel Mis sion on May 29 and Larry Eidse brought the message. Wes Dueck gave his testimony, which spoke forcefully to the audience, see ing he has “been there” himself. His brother Don is serving this summer with Campus Crusade Ministries in India, giving his testimony and showing the “Jesus” film to large audiences (often in sweltering heat). Our annual outdoor worship service and Sunday schol picnic were held June 8 at the La Barriere Park. Dora Friesen appeared in typical Mexican Indian costume and hairdo to tell “what’s new in Mexico.” The “Joyful Melodies” sang and Frank Kroeker brought a sermonette based on Joshua 4:1-9. Then came the sack lunch followed by recreation and chatting. Finally, a delicious barbecue supper rounded out the day’s activities. Hospitalized recently have been Mr. John K. Loewen and Mrs. Werner Kornelsen. Both are convalescing at home, and Mr. Loewen is also attending various church functions, etc. Last, but not least, we had a baptismal ser vice and reception of new members on June 15. Baptized were Alanna Bartel, Audra Kornelsen, Gerald Dueck, and Travis Loewen. Pastor Loewen brought the message on Christian commitment and then perform-
A Reminder...
1986
Annual Convention Sessions
July 4-6 •Conference Council Meeting (Blumenort) Friday, July 4, 1:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday, July 5, 9:00 a m.-4:00 p.m. Conference Council sessions are open to non-delegates. Please phone the Con ference Office in advance. Fee for non delegates is $3.00. Phone 326-6401.
•Public sessions (Blumenort) Friday, July 4, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 5, 7:00 p.m. Sunday, July 6, 3:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.
• Ladies’ Session (Ridgewood Church) Saturday, July 5, 2:00 p.m.
•Youth Session Saturday, July 5 - 1:00 p.m. (A.D. Pen ner Park) Saturday, July 5 - 7:00 p.m., conven tion session Saturday, July 5 - “Tidal wave" and dessert (after convention evening session)
•Locations Blumenort: five miles north of Stein bach on Highway *12 Ridgewood: three miles north of Steinbach on Highway *12 and three miles east on PR 311 A.D. Penner Park: one mile north and half a mile east of Steinbach
ed the ceremony. He also accepted into membership Edward and Anne Loewen, Tim and Laurie Loewen and Mrs. Erika Friesen. We welcome all these new members with joy! God make you a blessing. THE MESSENGER
times. Always this has meant renovating rather dilapidated buildings. Because of the rapidly deteriorating condition of the present store, the need for new facilities became critical. The Board, consisting of one representative from each of the 10 par ticipating churches (drawn from four Men nonite conferences), is pleased with the finan cial support from the constituency for this new venture. The store itself will be built by a con tractor, but painting and decorating will be done by volunteers. It is our prayer that these new facilities will enhance our ministry of caring “in the name of Christ.” The writer, Shirley Bergen, is treasurer of the Brandon Community SELFHELP Centre.
n
John Whitehead
Review
A Van by Faith
And I’m Stuck With Joseph by Susan Sommer. Herald Press. Scottdale, PA. 15683, $5.35. Sheila Shenk thinks that a new baby sister would be a perfect addition to her family. Jen nifer and David, her younger sister and brother, are way past the baby stage and would rather play together than with Sheila. Her best friends have new baby sisters, and Sheila knows she’d help her mother with all the work. When her parents don’t seem to respond to her begging, Sheila decides to talk the mat ter over with God. Then her parents announce that they plan to adopt a child. Sheila is thrilled - until she learns that instead of a baby sister, she’s go ing to get stuck with a three-year-old brother. Joseph proves to be a difficult brother, in deed. He won’t let Sheila help him or hold him or cuddle him as a baby sister would have done. In fact, Joseph seems to ruin everything he touches and is almost impossible to love. Sheila’s world has suddenly fallen apart. She can’t understand why God would have done this to her.
WINNIPEG, MAN.: Choice Books (Choice Resources, Inc.), Winnipeg, Manitoba, found themselves in a dilemma this winter - their only trustworthy service vehicle, having served five years, had broken down and was beyond repair. Now what? After seeking God’s will and checking various dealers and prices, it seemed right by the board to purchase, by faith, a new mini van at two thirds the price. Rejoicing set in to see the expanding book ministry now again properly equipped to carry on. First of all, the board members commit ted themselves. Secondly, they volunteered to let the churches and in dividuals know of the $8,000.00 still need ed. (Some funds and pledges had come in already.) Sunday school departments or classes or missions committees may want to make this a special project. Manager John Whitehead is being ef fectively used of the Lord in setting up ac counts in stores, “chains” and summer resorts, even beyond the boundaries of Manitoba, in Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. The board is concerned about
following through with the plans that God has for this ministry. Choice Resources is also excited about hosting a three-day international Choice Books rally in Winnipeg, August 21, 22, 23, at the Canadian Mennonite Bible Col lege. The programs and seminars will be for rack representatives, area supervisors and interested individuals. In conjunction with this rally, with key personnel available, plans have been made to host a banquet August 21 at 6:30 p.m. at the Mennonite Brethren Bible College with speaker Jon Bonk, Winnipeg Bible College. Forty international guests are ex pected, including international director Paul Yoder, Harrisonburg, Virginia, and Simon Schrock of the Beachy Amish. This banquet has been planned with a threefold purpose (and much more) - an appreciation to the many dedicated volunteers, an awareness as to what is be ing done, and an opportunity to give finan cially to further the book ministry in cen tral Canada. Interested? Write or phone ' Choice Resources, 1421 Erin St., Win nipeg, Man. R3E 2S9, phone 783-7447.
Coming this fall .. .
Church Finances Workshop A Church
J
Sod turned for New Selfhelp Centre
BRANDON. Man. — The sod-turning ceremony for a new Community SELFHELP Centre held here May 2 marked a fresh start for the thrift and crafts store, which is part of a network of such stores across North America. The new building will be at ground level. JUNE 27, 1986
making it readily accessible for the disabled. It will also feature large display windows, good lighting and ventilation. Because of its ideal location right behind the new Rosser Mall, it is hoped that the sale of SELFHELP Crafts will be greatly increased. Used clothing has been the main emphasis thus far. Since its beginning in 1973, the centre has moved to larger and better premises three
Finances Workshop,
sponsored by the EMC Board of Finance, is being planned for this fall. Church treasurers, pastors, deacons, and others involved in stewardship and financial ministries in the church will want to attend. Tentative date: November 1, 1986 Watch for further announcements ...
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God’s presence. Leaving to mourn her early passing and to treasure her memory are her husband, Frank; their children, Randall and wife Wilma, Arley and wife Tina, Elvira, Marilyn, Garry, Wesley, and Daryl; parents, Mr and Mrs'Peter J.R. Barkman and Mr and Mrs Jacob D Friesen; as well as brothers and sisters. The family wishes to express appreciation for your friendship, prayers, acts of kindness and cards.
Births WIEBE - to Peter and Linda Wiebe of Vanderhoof, B.C.. a daughter, Sharayah Chantelle. on May 22, 1986. ESAU - to Bill and Sharon Esau of Vanderhoof. B.C.. a son. Matthew Jared, on May 22. 1986. DUECK - to Gerry and Blanca Dueck of Beausejour. Man., a daughter. Lolita Lara, on May 7, 1986. SCHLAMP - to Tom and Agatha Schlamp of Vanderhoof. B.C.. a son. Curtis Doyle, on March 22. 1986. KOOP - to Reg and Mary Koop of Vanderhoof. B.C.. a daughter. Kara Denae Marie, on January 3, 1986. CHOW - to Mike and Sylvia Chow of Vanderhoof. B.C.. a son. Michael Andrew, on February 16, 1986. KROEKER - to Reynold and Grace Kroeker of Steinbach, Man., a son, Matthew Dylan Isaac, on June 9. 1986. PLETT - to Dalen and Pat Plett of Blumenort. Man., a son, Joshua Dane, on June 6. 1986. GIESBRECHT - to Bob and Debbie Giesbrecht of Steinbach, Man., a son, William David, on June 14, 1986. WALL - to Ken and Marilyn Wall, a daughter. Kari Chantelle. on June 11, 1986. MARTENS - to Jerry and Jan Martens of Blumenhof. Sask., a daughter. Jenna Lee. on June •4. 1986. DOERKSEN ■ to Jake and Anne Doerksen of La Crete. Alta., a son, Jordan Mark, on May 15. 1986. SCHMIDT - to Isaac and Trudy Schmidt of La Crete, Alta., a son, Dustin Jacob, on May 23, 1986.
Administrative Position Applications are now being ac cepted for the position of ad ministrator of a 60-bed personal care home plus a complex of four senior citizen self-contained housing units (78 suites). Duties to start January 1,1987. Health care experience an asset. Send or bring resume to: Resthaven Nursing Home of Steinbach, Inc. Box 1029 Steinbach, Man. ROA 2A0
Coming MCC Events Saturday, August 2 Brandon MCC Sale Saturday, September 13 Morris MCC Sale
Sunday, September 14 Official Open ing of new MCC building PAGE 14
Frank and familii
No One Like Him
LYDIA BARKMAN 1934-1986
“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is staited on thee" (Is. 26:3). Lydia, as wife and mother, left us for heaven’s glory on Monday, May 26, 1986, at 4:45 p.m. at the Gimli Hospital. She had reached the age of 51 years, 4 months and 28 days. Lydia was born to Jacob and Tina Friesen on December 28, 1934. She grew up in the Rosenort area. Her early years were carefree and happy. Being the second oldest in the family, she often took care of younger sisters and brothers and shouldered major household responsibilities. Lydia accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Saviour, and was baptized on September 3, 1950 by her grandfather, Jacob B. Krockcr. She demonstrated a deep faith in God as she faced life and its challenges. Isaiah 30:15 aptly describes her approach to life, “. . . in quietness and confidence shall be your strength ..." Her husband and family were strengthened by her quiet con fidence in God. In 1952 the Friesen family moved to River ton. It was here that Lydia met Frank. They were married on October 8, 1956. They shared this life of companionship for 29 years, 7 months and 18 days. Frank and Lydia farm ed together, a career in which they shared the work, blessings and sacrifices. Lydia had heart surgery in March 1970, which gave her renewed physical strength. Though not robust, her health allowed her to lead a normal life, caring for the needs of fami ly and friends. Lydia was not one to complain. She accepted her role in life graciously, even though she could not always understand. Lydia entered the Gimli Hospital on Thurs day, May 22. Flu and a weakened heart left her fatigued. She experienced a good day on Sunday, saying she felt better. This reassurance, however, was short-lived. On Monday, May 26, at 4:45 p.m., she passed peacefully from this life. We believe that at that moment Jesus presented her to the Father in heaven, “without fault and with great joy” (Jude 24). We look forward to joining her in
Jesus is the Holy One (Jn. 14:6), God’s very precious Son (Lk. 2:11). He came to earth to set us free (Mk. 2:17), From our sin and agony (Rom. 3:23). He loved us so, and He let us know (Jn. 3:16), By giving us life, and defeating the foe (I Pt. 1:3,4). That is why we may sing (Col. 3:16), About salvation, and the King (Rom. 10:9).
Put on the armor, and fight a good fight (Eph. 6:10-18), He is our Guide, the Everlasting Light (Jn. 8:12). We must share the good news with all (Matt. 28:19), For the Lord is risen, and redeemed us from the fall (Rom. 5:14).
If the fire in your heart starts to dim (Heb. 2:1), Seek the Son, there’s no one like Him (Heb. 12:1-4). Keep on marching, toward the new land (Phil. 3:12-14), Because one fine day, we’ll touch His hand (Matt. 25:34). T.J. Hiebert
NEW DOBSON FILM SERIES
A new Dobson film scries is being announc ed by Word Incorporated, Waco, Texas. The new six-part series, “Turn Your Heart Toward Home,” addresses family problems and na tional issues which confront our nation. From the deep-seated rebellion found in adolescents to the evils of pornography. Dr. Dobson answers parents’ questions and offers hope. He encourages parents to adopt values which will lead the family back to prosperity and wholeness. THE MESSENGER
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Future
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Future! Future! Future! What’s in store for you? How do you view your future? See what these four young people say.
My View of the Future Most of us, when thinking of the future, have a mixture of thoughts and feelings some, perhaps, of dread and anxiety, and others, perhaps, of hopeful dreams and goals becoming reality. Looking at today’s national news strikes a lot of fear in my view of things to come, because things seem to be getting worse in stead of better. Gadhafi, nuclear disaster, Lib yan terrorism, wars and rumours of wars are things 1 hear a lot about, but how much does it really affect my daily routine? In some ways it might not even seem all that real, because things just seem to continue on as usual. However, when 1 mention unemployment, oil prices, divorce rates, housing shortages, etc., I begin to relate to its effects. These are real, daily, fearful circumstances. Things such as homosexuality, pornography, and teen suicide are more evident also. While travell ing I saw and heard about this daily, and for the people that lived there these were ac cepted facts of life. So how do I face the future, or escape this rampant gloominess? Is it better to let myself become calloused to the dangers and hurts around the world? If I don’t, every anxiety will tear me down. Should I look past all this and laugh and rejoice because God is good so it won’t ruin me? I feel 1 need to face the future head-on with a realistic look. So, it’s true that my future doesn’t look too rosy, but I must choose which attitude I’ll take towards it. It is not enough to only see it as it is; head-on involvement is necessary too. When I see negative things around me, I should not just watch, but actively stand up for what’s right. Sometimes my eyes can be clouded so that 1 no longer recognize the sin fulness of sin, and therefore sit back and do nothing. I believe I need to practice loving my neighbour more, as myself. Isn’t it so often that what’s wrong with the world is what’s wrong with people? This world is selfish because I am selfish; this world is full of hate and unforgiveness because I am like that. It all starts at the root of the problem JUNE 27, 1986
in individuals’ hearts. That’s exactly where Christ can make the difference. And what a challenge and responsibility there is for me as a Christian to get actively moving in the non Christian world, being careful, however, not to let the negative surroundings consume me. I need to remember that God’s goodness is still everlasting. I need to be still and know who is in control and has already won the victory. A wonderful promise from God, especial ly regarding the future is, “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Thee; because he trusts in you, oh. Lord.” What a fantastic and fabulous hope for me! I can hardly keep still for gratefulness! What a place of refuge and quiet rest in the midst of strife! Jacqueline Reimer Jacqueline has just completed a term of studies at the Capernwray Bible School in Sweden. She attends the Steinbach E.M. Church.
The Future The future, in many people’s eyes, must seem uncertain and bleak. This might be due to the enormous number of world pro blems. A person pro bably feels useless 5r when it comes to all the growing crises, and it seems there is little one can do to help. I Rhonda Reimer think that the main idea, when looking at the future, is not to get discouraged. When a person stops caring and becomes indifferent, there is really no bright future in store. Speaking for the younger generation, I think we have the responsibility to take the initiative and see the future as a challenge. We shouldn’t let the increasing number of world disasters get us down, but we should rather take a closer look at our immediate surroun dings and then see if we can help in any way. If a person doesn’t stop caring, there will always be hope for a better future. Rhonda Reimer Rhonda graduated from the Steinbach Regional Secondary School this spring. She attends the Steinbach E.M. Church.
What’s in store for my future? The way things look around the world - not much. Everywhere you look there’s war, tenor, and turmoil - apartheid in South Africa, Libyan terrorism, trouble with a nuclear reactor in Robert Ruhr Chernobyl, Edmonton not winning the Stanley Cup, etc., and, a worry for several years already, the possibili ty of a nuclear holocaust. Many people go to bed at night terrified of what the future has in store for them. Will they be found to have cancer? Will the world erupt in World War III the next day? Will they lose their job and not be able to support their fami ly? Will they lose their hair and be humiliated by their personal appearance for the rest of their life? Obviously these people have not yet learn ed that worrying is not the new-found preven tion for cancer. Nor is it going to save their job, nor is it going to save their hair, and it’s not going to save them from dying the very next day! All wonying will save you is a lot of needed sleep. So what’s in store for my future? Only God knows. For all I know, the rest of my life may be tomorrow. But, worrying isn’t going to change that. Robert Buhr Robert is from the Steinbach E.M. Church and is a grade 11 student at the Steinbach Regional Secondary School. God Is In Control In the world around us there is loneliness, violence, and disaster. It makes us wonder sometimes what the future has in store for us. The threat of nuclear war has become very real. The Chernobyl accident may have hap pened in Russia, but Europe certainly felt its effects. And what if an actual bomb exploded? From the world’s viewpoint the future in deed looks very bleak. But we as Christians have hope! Jesus has conquered death! Disasters will happen, but God is always in control. Perhaps we don’t always understand why they happen, but God sees the whole picture. I’m sure many of the early Christians wondered why God was allowing them to be persecuted. But now we see that because of persecution Christianity spread throughout the world at that time. And we can also take comfort in the fact that God has a plan for us as individuals. God will never leave us; He has a plan for our lives. The day is coming when we will see Him face to face. Now that’s a future to look forward to! Rhonda Hiebert Rhonda is a grade 11 student at the Stein bach Regional Secondary School and attends the Steinbach E.M. Church.
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From the Editor He halted upon His thigh FOR SOME TIME A certain scripture passage has kept coming back to me. It is a passage and an incident which I think, although a physical occurrence, could well have a spiritual application. It is the account of Jacob wrestling with a man as he is on the way back to the land of his birth. Jacob has been the subject of very bad press, and no wonder. He managed to somehow acquire his brother’s birthright and, finally, the blessing of the eldest. At Laban’s, through another set of interesting cir cumstances, he prospered. He achieved wealth. His in laws started to grumble and said, “Jacob hath taken away all that was our father’s” (Gen 31:2). He noticed that Laban’s countenance was not toward him as before. It was time to move again.
At this time the word of the Lord again came to Jacob, "... Return unto the land of thy fathers . . . and I will be with thee” (Gen. 31:3). We know Jacob’s record before he came to Laban. And if it is true that he defrauded Laban, we are aware of what seemingly his character must have been. But in all this God gives him good marks. This surprises us (me).
This tells me that God in his goodness and mercy is with us even in our immaturity, in the surprising things we do, in the blunders we make - and at that time even with Jacob’s scheming. This I find hard to understand, but I am not God. He who knows the end from the beginning saw in Jacob a quality which, after He (God) was through with him, would result in the continuation of the blessing to all the families of the earth as first given to Abram (Gen. 12:3), then to Isaac (Gen. 26:4), and final ly to Jacob (Gen. 28:14). But before the Lord could do that, Jacob would have to go through another experience, in the school of God Peniel. You see, Jacob had his back to the wall. He couldn’t go back to Laban. And before him lay the land where Esau, his brother, dwelt and neither was he especially anxious to see him. In his extremity he again was forced to go back to God. It was well that at a time like that he remembered God’s promises to him and his access to the throne of grace. He remembered and he reminded God of what He had said, “Return unto thy country, and to thy kindred, and I will deal well with thee” (Gen. 32:9). This reminds one of the saying. Never believe what Satan tells you in the dark when God has said it in the light. Jacob feared Esau. This should dispel all doubts that Jacob had not wronged his brother when he fled Canaan PAGE 16
those many years before. But his plan still smacked of maneuvering, . I will appease him with the present which goeth before me and afterward he will accept me” (Gen. 32:20). Then came Jacob’s Waterloo, as the say ing goes, but in his case it was Peniel. After he had made all his arrangements with wives and children and everything that he had, he was left alone and scripture tells us that there wrestled a man with him. Jacob, it seems, came face to face with God and with himself here. The outcome? Jacob’s thigh was put out of joint. His name was changed from Jacob to Israel and he came out of this as a prince who had power with God and men and he had prevailed. But also - and what I really have been coming to all the time - as he emerged from this conflict he passed Peniel, limping because of his thigh. Kidner in his book on Genesis affirms the conclusion I too had come to; that is, that this limping would be a lasting proof of the reality of his struggle. Maybe the analogy is weak but I would like to propose that maybe all of us, or many of us, have limps, greater or lesser, acquired from experiences in life. I suppose we could call them psychological limps. God is gracious to forgive and forget, but we may have a limp, perhaps imperceptible to others and maybe not often spoken of by oneself, yet it is a limp acquired by an act of self-will, disobedience, etc. The human spirit is very stubborn and will even pit itself against God. I may be way off course, but I think my limp came about when 1 thought 1 knew better than God, was un willing to accept his will for me and thought 1 could run my own affairs better than He. Through the years I have bent to the will of God in this matter. But those years of indecision left their toll - a limp. I have even more limps, I think, limps that sometimes leave me very weak. But then I again take heart that those things are under the blood, dealt with, forgiven. So we have transgressed, yes. We are forgiven, yes. But maybe ever after we will walk with a limp. This limp, so aggravating to us, may be the very thing God will use in our life to bless others. Transgressions are far from the will of God for us. But if we are sincere, God will use our experiences to bring blessing to his kingdom. The end of your struggle may result in a limp, but thank God that He did not give up on you. Your limp may still be your salvation. D.S. THE MESSENGER
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