The Messenger November 14, 1986

Th© Messenger EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE

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VOL. 24 NO. 23

NOV. 14/86

Outside of faith in Christ Jesus and repentance of sin there are no pro­ mises of any kind of hope for eternal life. Eph. 2 says man by nature is dead in trespasses and sins. He lives according to the desires of the flesh, accor­ ding to the course of this world. He is by nature a child of God’s wrath.

by Fred Friesen

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he EMC Board of Missions had just come into being and the first missionary sent by them had gone to Africa. As a young boy, 1 still recall the intense discussions on the age-old question of whether the unevangelized are actually lost. That question was then and still is the bottom-line question when it comes to our involvement in the missionary imperative. For me it was not then, nor in Bible college, but years later as a missionary in Central America that that ques­ tion demanded a satisfactory answer. During our first Easter week we were standing on a street corner and watching thousands of people following a life-size crucifix of Jesus. With zeal and fervor they were surging forward to just get a touch on the figurine in hope of absolution of their guilt. The thought that kept running through my mind was. surely all these thousands cannot be lost. It was the Jesus who died for their sins that they were going for and not some dumb idol. I had never seen such fervor in North America. Either then or later Romans 10:2 came to me where Paul talks about his own people, “They have a zeal for God but not according to knowledge.” Zeal was not enough for the Jews so it could not be enough for these thousands either. Maybe not, we say, but how can a God, who is love, condemn these ignorant masses? They, through no fault of their own, were ignorant of the fact that Jesus is the resurrection and the life. How could they call on Him whom they do not know? And calling on His Name is the revealed condition in order to be PAGE 2

saved (Rom. 10:13). Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of Christ (Rom. 10:17). Slowly it dawned on me that they had to be told. That realization gave me a mission. For the Bible gives no hope to the man out­ side of a saving faith in the risen Christ. If Jesus is Lord, and He is, we are bound to the posi­ tion that what He taught about the lostness of man we have to accept. This teaching has not come via ra­ tionalization but by divine revelation. Scripture is clear that in the end men will be judged according to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Outside of faith in Christ Jesus and repentance of sin there are no promises of any kind of hope for eternal life. Ephesians 2 says man by nature is dead in trespasses and sins. He lives according to the desires of the flesh, according to the course of this world. He is by nature a child of God’s wrath. From the sole of the foot even to the head there is no soundness, says Isaiah (1:6). For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23). These texts and others are in­ dicative of a whole line of divine revelations about fallen man’s lostness, whether Jew or Gentile, The fact is that no man lives up to the light he has, so he stands judged without excuse (Rom. 1:18-20). What then must happen for lost man to be able to be saved? “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever belieueth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16), “That if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead you shall be saved” (Rom. 10:9). It is impossible that this THE MESSENGER

In evangelical circles today, far too much time is spent on just such speculation ... Speculation taught as possible truth in one generation tends to become accepted truth in the generations following.

knowledge can come from natural revelation only. Jesus Himself said, “It is written in the prophets, ‘And they shall be taught of God.’ Everyone who has heard and (earned from the Father, comes to me” (John 6:45). Can natural revelation do that? Very unlikely, because man’s mind is darkened and even nature’s revelation is blurred (Rom. 8:20). We still believe that God’s existence and some of His attributes are discernable. But all they can do is to point to God even as the law did for the Jews. But no flesh can be justified by the works of the law, so neither can they by nature’s revelation alone. This dim revelation of someone divine is what makes untouched stone-age man saveable. The missionary can go from the known to the unknown. Paul did this in Acts 17 when he visited Mars Hill. Many missionaries have told stories of people waiting for someone with a book to inform them of what they needed. This is substantiated in the story of Cornelius in Acts 10. Cornelius was searching but lacked knowledge. The Holy Spirit sent Peter to tell Cornelius how he could be saved (11:14). Now, could Cornelius have been sav­ ed if Peter had disobeyed and Cornelius had died waiting, as so many have in history? We just do not know! The Bible does not inform us. We, like Peter, must obey and go. We can speculate. But Jesus said, “Except a man be born again, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” In evangelical circles today, far too much time is spent on just such speculation. And it certainly takes away the keen edge of the missionary imperative. Speculation taught as possible truth in one generation tends to become accepted truth in the generations following. Paul gave the Athenians, who worshipped at the altar of the Unknown God, no assurance of salvation. Rather, he maintained that God had overlooked ignorance in the past but now declares all men to repent or be brought in judgment before the Man He has appointed (Acts 17:22-31). Revealed truth is that the unevangelized knows about God’s wrath on his sin (Rom. 1:18-20 and John 16:8) to some degree and must be told the good news in order to have saving faith (Rom. 10:9-15). A college student in one of my classes, upon hearing the above, said, “Surely God would not risk the salvation of a searching heathen on my faithfulness!” What would you have answered? The Bible seems to take the Church’s faithfulness for granted. If there is anything I would like to remove from Holy Writ, it would be this very revelation - that those who do not know God will be condemned along with those who knowingly disobeyed (II Thess. 1:8). We must go one question further. Do the lost actually go to a place of eternal hell? Again, if we want to be NOVEMBER 14, 1986

true to the Lord Jesus, we have to face up to His teaching. Will 1 bow my knee to my own ability of understanding and thinking or to revelation? Jesus said these words. “Do not fear those who kill the body, but are unable to kill the soul, but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” The very One who gave His life so man can live said, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes . . . shall be saved ... he who disbelieves shall be condemned” (Mark 16:15. 16). Some have respond­ ed to this verse by saying that by making the heathen knowledgeable, we actually condemn him. We have just shown that ignorance is not salvation and Jesus said that His coming did not condemn the world - it was con­ demned already (John 3:18). John, the revelator. says “But the fearful and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and immoral persons and sorcerers and idolators and all liars, their part will be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone” (21:8). Jesus made numerous references to that place of outer darkness or

Praise God, people are coming to the Lord as never before in all history. The gospel banner is being picked up and car­ ried by third world legs. The gospel is no longer the white man’s religion alone. furnace of fire where there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matt. 8:12; 13:42). In the parable of the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31) Jesus taught that in hell (1) consciousness will continue after death; (2) the wicked will be tormented; (3) there will be ab­ solutely no escape; and (4) all efforts on the part of God for salvation after death will be abandoned. If God has condemned the unrighteous to hell before (I Peter 2:3,4), on what basis do we think He will not do it again? If we want to retain the glory of heaven we cannot reject the fact of hell and that sinful men will be condemned there for all eternity, because the two come to us in parallel passages (Matt. 25:46). In conclusion, God is a just God. Nobody will be con­ demned or judged unfairly. Our mandate is to evangelize. We have no option as to our involvement. The commission was given to the Church. We can only ask “how, when or where?” Praise God, people are coming to the Lord as never before in all history. The gospel banner is being picked up and carried by third world legs. The gospel is no longer the white man’s religion alone. The Church of Jesus Christ is fast moving toward the goal of having “a church for every people group by the year 2000.” Rev. 7:9 must become a reali­ ty, “. . . behold a great multitude, which no one could count, from every nation and all tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb clothed in white robes ...” Pray you therefore the Lord of the harvest that he will send forth laborers into his harvest. For the harvest is plenteous but the laborers are few (Matt. 9:37, 38). ■ PAGE 3

a Musically 2 Speaking By Don Thiessen

Why Knock Rock? Why Knock Rock? is written by Dan Peters and Steve Peters, pastor brothers in Minneapolis. Minnesota, and publish­ ed by Bethany House Publishers in 1984. In the past years, ever since Bob Larson began his crusade against rock music, there have been periodic releases of books on rock music that were addressed to Christians, especially young people. Bob Larson, Steve Lawhead. Tom Allen and others have written on the sub­ ject: some have condemned any music that incorporated any rock idiom: others have attempted to justify certain aspects on the premise that contemporary music is effective in evangelism. Almost all speakers and writers encounter some problems when dealing with this subject but the greatest snares await those who attempt to justify or condemn rock on musical grounds. More recently, discussions of the rhythms, instrumentation, and melody of rock music have been avoided. The Peters brothers also have avoided some of these issues but they do deal with those that can be supported Biblically.

The feature of the book that makes it more credible than some is its documentation. Of all the books I have read on the subject, none has approached this one in terms of sound research prac­ tices in the form of footnotes and bibliography. Facts are sup­ ported by complete source listings and the book contains very little material that could be challenged on grounds of poor documentation. It is this that makes this book more than a diatribe against secular rock. Earlier books were often too anecdotal and opinionated in their approach. The first chapter is a brief history of secular rock music with a brief account of the better known rock musicians - Elvis Presley, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and others. The bulk of the book deals with the lyrics, lifestyles, goals, and graphics of rock music. The authors state the problems clearly and outline why they oppose rock music. When they do so they give Scriptural support for their position. What many would like to see, however, is a guide to contem­ porary Christian music with some suggestions on how to choose wisely in this area. This will probably be some time in coming. You might need to study the same aspects for this music as the Peters brothers did for secular rock. Unfortunately, some of our Christian music also would not stand up under the scrutiny. On the subject of secular rock, this book is the best one I’ve seen. Why not read it. It costs less than a recording.

Don Thiessen is Chairman of the Diuision of the Music Studies at Winnipeg Bible College. Otterburne. Man.

Tapes

Associate Pastor Required The Swift Current E. M. Church is looking for an associate pastor. This is a salaried position involving the youth ministry. Musical ability would be an important asset. Starting date: June or July 1987.

Direct inquires to; Rev. John Toews 1300 Walker St. Swift Current, Sask. S9H 1H2 Ph. (306)773-2678

THE EMC RESOURCE Library has tapes of some of the events at “The Teacher in Public Education” conference held at Win­ nipeg Bible College last February. The pur­ pose of the conference was billed as “an in­ service seminar to help Christian teachers, ad­ ministrators, trustees and their spouses in public education apply their faith commitment to their profession.” Attendance, at a meeting where hundreds should have been, was low. If you were not there, why don’t you avail yourself of the above-mentioned tapes. We have the following titles on a free loan basis: •The Christian Teacher in Labour Manage­ ment Relations - Panel •Belief at the Blackboard: Dr. Daniel Klassen (keynote address) •Thinking Christianly About Teaching: Dr. Daniel Klassen (keynote address) •Luncheon Addresses: Dave Church and Ed Buller (Manitoba Dept, of Education)

COFITRIBUTORS: Fred Friesen is Professor of Missions at Mountain View Bible College, Box 190, Didsbury. Alta. TOM OWO. He is also a former EMC missionary to Nicaragua. Paul Kra^bill is executive secretary, Mennonite World Conference. Bruce Derksen (Braeside) is enrolled in the Spanish language course at the RGBl, prepar­ ing for missionary service in Paraguay. Doris Friesen (Mennville) is involved in coordinating the health promoter program in East Paraguay. Peter and Louise Hiebert (Steinbach EFC) are serving in Cuauhtemoc, Mexico as church planters under the EMC Board of Missions. Albert and Edna Martens (Steinbach) are involved in business ad­ ministration at Black Forest Academy in Germany. COVER: Billed as “the worst blizzard in 20 years,” the weekend (November 7-9) snowfall nevertheless proved a boon to Karla, Annie, Greg, Sharon and Johnny as they slid off this snowpile on Monday. By the editor.

THE MESSENGER is the publication of 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.

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THE MESSENGER

Missions I do not want to think that Christians “back home” are losing interest in spreading God’s Word, and becoming more content with ac­ cumulating more wealth for themselves. I have had a very distinct feeling over the past nine years that we have a lot of "missionary partners” in Canada and the USA. We work in Germany, and they work "at home”; they have the funds to keep our work going, and we do the work on the field. We work for the same goals - to bring men. women and children to Christ.

Are churches in Canada and the USA still mission-minded? Are they still actively in­ terested in sending out new missionaries, as well as keeping present missionaries on the field? I am always excited for every person 1 read about in the Messenger who is going to serve the Lord in a missionary capacity. Let’s pray together, work together and bring the gospel to more people. Let’s not get too com­ fortable on those church pews - there is a big job to be done - and only God’s children can -S do it. .a Edna Martens u

I The Market Place - Kandern, Germany.

RIO GRANDE BIBLE INSTITUTE

Language Learning A Humbling Experience Frustrations!

GERMANY

Working for the Same Goals Losing Interest? “This is the day that the Lord hath made, let us be glad and rejoice in it.” It is such a lovely fall day today that this song has been going through my mind all day. I have also spent some time catching up on reading through the last few Messengers. I was especially touched by the poem “The Disap­ pearing Missionaries” (Aug. 22 issue). At Black Forest Academy we are back into full swing now with 237 students and almost all staff here. Some people who had said they wanted to come and join us did not. Why not? For various reasons. Some resemble the mis­ sionaries in the poem, others simply could not get enough support to come. Other co-workers went home on furlough this summer, and some came back rather discouraged - they also were not able to meet their support needs. One young man shared with me on the telephone that people in Canada were no longer interested in missions. Is that really true? We are also missionaries, and have beei for the past nine years. We are totally depen­ dent on the Lord to supply us with all our NOVEMBER 14, 1986

needs. We do not have an employer who guarantees that if we work the required hours then there will be a pay cheque for us - and we do not know in advance what that amount is. The Lord moves people to give to mis­ sions. and in this way the missionaries are "supplied with all their needs.’’ What happens when people lose interest in giving, and the dollar value in the country you work in goes down, and down and down? Is the missionary then obligated to leave the field? Does God then say. there is no need for missions anymore? The work on the field goes on, the missionaries eat more potatoes with ap­ plesauce and less meat, they tell their children that if they will just wear those worn-out shoes another month, maybe there will be an extra gift next month so that they can have new shoes.

Sometimes we would like to come back to Canada, find a well-paying job and give a lot of money to missions. We have been on the receiving end for nine years, and the Lord has been faithful in providing for our family for nine years.

I detest being wrong, don’t you? Yet not one Spanish phrase seems to come out of my mouth without some type of mistake in pro­ nunciation, grammar, or intonation. Frustra­ tion! A person gets tired of constant correc­ tion by teachers and Spanish students, even though it is necessary for growth in language learning. Did I really say “thanks” for yet another correction? (Actually, I appreciate tremendously the ability of Manuel Gutierrez, my grammar teacher, in detecting and cor­ recting my many errors.) Humility truly is an integral aspect of language learning: 1) Realizing our incapabilities. Others realize them whether we do or don’t! This was evidenced when I prayed in Spanish for our church offering for the first time at Alianza Donna (the Spanish church I attend). I had a choice of English or Spanish - but, hey, my faults were already evident to everyone and I hear that God can even translate my worst grammar constructions. As Andrew Murray writes in Humility, “Humility before God is nothing if not proved in humility before men.” 2) Continuing to converse when you don’t understand the subject. I remember the first Sunday at Alianza Donna. Daniel, an older gentleman, was explaining his testimony to

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me for ten minutes in Spanish as people slow­ ly filed into the church. We happened to be standing at the front of our one-room church, on a 90°F Sunday morning. Sweat, obvious to all. seeped down my shirt as I occasionally inserted the words in his monologue - “Comprendo poco. pero esta muy bueno" (1 com­ prehend little, but it's very good). Mercifully, the pastor asked us to sit down for the ser­ vice. Actually. 1 appreciated the chat except for my drenched shirt. 3) Mimic Spanish students even when you feel inept. Did you ever try repeating a word five times for correct pronunciation and then forget how to use the word one minute later? But is it harder on the speaker or the listener? Have you ever heard a foreigner attempt to speak English'? Edna Penner at RGBI stated. “Only a mother can truly have such patience with a child." which is why it's hard to believe that my Spanish friends have such patience with me. especially my close friend. Juan Carlos, who visits with me every night. How much 1 appreciate his attention, as do 1 all the

students here! Do you ever contemplate about Jesus also needing to be constantly cor­ rected as a child in grammar and pronuncia­ tion - “No. Jesus, you don't say 'shep.' you say 'sheep.' " Talk about humbling for our all­ knowing God! Yes. He does understand my situation. God. do 1 really have to learn more languages when 1 go to Paraguay? A person gets tired of childhood, you know? Someday 1 would like to get past “Pato Donald" comic books into philosophy and theology. (I can tell you. Donald Duck is meant for a higher intelligence than that of new language student.) Bruce Derksen

PARAGUAY

of cooling that feverish brow or binding up that bleeding wound. I may need to spend hours at the desk, preparing teaching material to equip others for the job. Presently. God is giv­ ing me the opportunity to spend four weeks in a rural community (Yhovy) in teaching health promoters to become equipped to meet the health needs in their own com­ munities. This kind of program was im­ plemented in a few communities about eight months ago. and today one of these pro­ moters is already actively involved in training his own people for this role. Being one of them, he can relate of experiences, much like those that the new promoters will be facing in their own communities, and can relate to them in their heart's language - Guarani. As I reflect on the development of this pro­ gram. I realize that it will be more and more the health promoters who will do the job. and that my role will be that of serving 'behind' others. 1 may never meet the many patients that come to the different clinics, but I may have an influence in the quality of care that they receive from the promoters that tend to them. Much depends on the kind of teaching they receive now while they are in the course and the kind of support we will give them on their job in the community. 1 realize that this is a big responsibility, but also a privilege, and

my dependency must daily be on the Teacher of all teachers - Christ - to use me in equipp­ ing these promoters and learn to work alongside with them in the building of God's Kingdom. Doris Friesen

MEXICO

Count Your Many Blessings Leaders Being Trained

Working Alongside

Here in Cuauhtemoc we have experienc­ ed a mountain of blessings. Many times,

Preparing Others to do the Job

however, we spend or waste our time dwell­ ing on the negative. Satan likes this because when we are down and discouraged we are of little use to the Lord. We want to reach in­ to our barrel of blessings and share a few of them with you. 1. Thanks to all of you. the Board of Mis­ sions. and most of all thanks to God. we are able to live in the house purchased by the mis­ sion in a good part of the city. We have become friends with almost all our neighbours. We are looking forward to the time when they will receive Christ into their lives. 2. We praise the Lord for Maria Dolores Holguin who accepted Christ as her Saviour and Lord on October 14. 1986. She is 60 years old and says she has had everything ex­ cept rabies. (She hasn’t had that only because she received the necessary shots in time.) She has a severe thyroid problem and is often choking. She has studied with different cults but her spiritual need was never met. No per-

Working alongside our brothers and sisters in Paraguay is a privilege and blessing to me. This gives opportunities to tune into the needs of the people we are relating to. Being a nurse, the needs I hear being expressed as I move among the people in the different com­ munities are often health-related. Attending to these needs myself would seem like a big workload. Oh. yes. sometimes it would seem easier to roll up my sleeves and do the job quickly myself and perhaps even receive the rewards of a job well done. But will that meet the long-term needs of the people we have come to relate to? Our national brothers and sisters are begin­ ning to see that they can do the work; e.g.. that of meeting the health needs of their peo­ ple. if only they will be given the opportunity to develop in that role. But someone must work alongside them to help develop this abili­ ty and prepare them to do the job. So instead PAGE 6

son could convince her; the Holy Spirit did. Pray for her. 3. On our last furlough. 1 often related the story of Rita and her boys. Rita's husband was an alcoholic. Many of the boys and girls will remember the story of Pedrito. Rita's son. Last week Rita's husband died and went to be with the Lord. Ten days before he passed away he surrendered his life to the Lord. Were we to gain our salvation by good works, it is doubtful that he would have attained it. Our God is so merciful! Thank you. boys and girls, for praying. 4. Fridays we go door to door here in Cuauhtemoc. There are a number of homes that are open to Bible studies. A number have admitted their spiritual need. It is a joy to share how Christ has filled this emptiness in our own

lives. 5. Thank God for men and women and young people who are preparing themselves for the Lord's service. Here in Cuauhtemoc there is a group of nine students taking the SEAN course. Two of these are ministers, three are school teachers and the others are potential leaders as well. In other areas as well young people are showing a real concern for their lost relatives, neighbours and friends. Among the German-speaking people there are those who show a real desire to serve the Lord. They need training and Bible education. And so we could go on and on counting our blessings. Yes. there are problems, dishar­ mony. and persecutions, but only when we hang our heads and dwell on these things can they destroy us. As we count our many bless­ ings and get involved in what the Lord is do­ ing. the negatives become more and more insignificant. Louise Hiebert

Wanted The MacGregor EMC Church wants to buy up to 100 used copies of Worship and Service Hymnal by Hope Publishing Co. Please contact: Henry Giesbrecht Box 1013 Portage la Prairie, Man. Tel. 252-2646

Coming November 21, 22 MCC Manitoba an­ nual meeting in Blumenort EMC church (five miles north of Stein­ bach, Man.) December 6 EMC Conference Coun­ cil meets in Pleasant Valley EMC Church. February 13-16, 1987 Canadian Revival Fellowship annual con­ ference at Grant Memorial Baptist Church, Winnipeg, Man.

THE MESSENGER

Messenger News i

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Forty-seven candidates formed this summer’s baptismal group at the Mennonite Brethren Church, Danskoe, USSR. The Danskoe church was one of those visited by an MWC delega­ tion in October.

The Audience That Wouldn’t Go Home by Paul N. Kraybill It was midnight in Orenburg. USSR. We were in a beautiful new church building dedicated only a month ago. An audience of 650 persons filled the building. Here in the village of Susanowo we had finished nearly four hours of music, choirs, sermons and poetry. Finally, the hour obviously late, the minister tried to dismiss the audience. But no one moved. And a people spell­ bound by a foreign delegation were obvious­ ly totally oblivious to the lateness of the hour. Orenburg, long an area untouched by out­ side visitors, had never received an official Mennonite delegation. We were four: Jacob F. Pauls of Winnipeg. Manitoba (Canada), vice-president of Mennonite World Con-

ference: John Redekop of Toronto. Ontario (Canada), president of the Canadian Men­ nonite Brethren Conference: Abram Ens. Mennonite pastor from Enkenbach. West Germany: and the writer, executive secretary of Mennonite World Conference, comprising an official MWC delegation. For the first time we had been granted per­ mission to visit this famed area of collective farms and Mennonite villages. Almost 100 years ago Mennonites from the Ukraine moved to Orenburg as pioneers. In the shadow of the Ural mountains, on the border of Europe and Asia, they founded their villages which spread like a panorama through the fertile valleys of the area. Revolution and

A partial view of the congregation lor an evening service at the Danskoe M.B. Church.

war swirled around them, but never succeed­ ed in disrupting the community as they did in the Ukraine, where the original settlements have all been destroyed and the people removed. Today these are the only surviving original settlements of Mennonites in the USSR. The limits of time and distance restricted our contacts to three major communities: Dan­ skoe. Susanowo. and Orenburg City. But the delegation was involved in Mennonite life in a way seldom before experienced in the USSR. Arriving at the Orenburg Hotel from the air­ port long past midnight, we were met by a delegation of German-speaking Baptists and autonomous Mennonite Brethren leaders. Nowhere else in the USSR is there such a solid concentration of German-speaking chur­ ches with a Mennonite background. Even the Baptist congregations are composed largely of Mennonite Brethren German-speaking people. Not only is there an unusual clustering of Mennonite people, but of church buildings as well. The 35 Mennonite congregations have a total of 22 church buildings, including seven "Kirchliche.” 13 Mennonite Brethren, and two Baptist. Of these, most were originally con­ structed as church buildings: a few are remodelled residences. The other 13 con­ gregations meet in homes. All of the church buildings have been built since 1978. The baptized membership is close to 4.000 in the total German-speaking community. The agricultural traditions that Mennonites brought from the Ukraine are preserved here, where many work on the large collective farms. On the farms Mennonites are respected and well-known for their industriousness and honesty. With the demands of summer work in the fields, they deliver long hours, and their evening church service activities begin at 11:30 p.m.. with services every night, in some congregations at least. The MWC world map depicting Men­ nonites in 6 continents speaking 100 languages, in addition to the Mennonites in the USSR, opened up new vistas of a world of which they knew so little, but of which, to their amazement, they were also a part. Here the church demonstrates a strong, dynamic life, an intensive piety, rigidly held convictions, strict discipline, and an active pro­ gram that includes youth, music and choir. Stories of revival in the mid-1950s reflected a turning point that brought new life in much the same way that revival marked the chur­ ches of North America in the late 19th and early 20th century. On the evening of the Reykjavik summit we experienced an unusual bond with the peo­ ple of the USSR. Everywhere the hopes for peace were evident. As representatives from other nations, we were often aware of the futility of war and of the political rhetoric that creates artificial boundaries and borders in the face of the good will among people. PAGE 7

Dr. Archie Penner speaking on "A Search for Understanding of the Genesis Record of Creation" at the recent post-secondary student meeting in Winnipeg.

Penner Addresses Post-secondary Student Meeting An EMC post-secondary student meeting held at the University of Manitoba on November 6 saw Archie Penner address the assembly on "A Search for Understanding of the Genesis Record of Creation” Harvey Kroeker, who chaired the session, challenged the group to “allow God’s spirit to speak to us - change us.” in his opening remarks, Mr. Penner, when he began, clarified that he did not come to this group as one who would tell them something but as one who is on a search - to understand the Word of God better. Yet he added that he still had the obligation to evaluate, criticize, deny or affirm other positions. His presentation consisted of two parts: 1) Presentation of a paper. What Kind of Literature is the Genesis Record of Creation'-' 2) A period of discussion. The opening statement of his paper made the following assertion: "In the interpretation of exegesis of any literary corpus, including all Bible literature, the prior question which must always be answered and which becomes the concrete cornerstone of all proper and sound interpretation is. Into what category or genre of literature must the writing examined be placed? To fail to deal with this prior ques­ tion is to fail in interpretation. In fact, much theological error has its beginning precisely at this point” Where does the creation record fit into history, modern or ancient? Mr. Penner states the following: “For many of the same reasons that the Genesis record cannot be modern history, it cannot be ancient history. If ancient PAGE 8

history would be simply defined as events and actions, the term could perhaps be used. However, not euen ancient history as a type of literature quite seems to fit the Genesis record." Is the creation story science? Mr. Penner says, "It is obvious the scientific writing, as usually accepted, is a late phenomenon, and therefore the Genesis record cannot be scien­ tific literature. Further, the whole Bible testifies that the creation story is not science. Science can deal only with the repeatable, and as a consequence, with uerifiable euents. Miracle and the unique are not the constituents of science. ..." Anyone wishing to see the full text of Mr. Penner’s paper please contact the office. Post-secondary student meetings are ar­ ranged by the EMC Board of Education and Publication. The last one previous to this one was held in February and featured Peter and Leona Penner, lately of Swaziland, Africa.

CHARTERING SERVICE HELD Brandon, Man.: May 25 was an important day for us here at Kirkcaldy Heights Fellowship. Many of our neighbours in the Region 4 churches, as well as family and friends, joined us for this special day. "The Children of Light" from Steinbach Bi­ ble College were here in the morning and gave us an encouraging message in song. After a noon meal, which everyone enjoyed, we gathered for our Chartering Service. Ed Friesen and Henry Klassen both encouraged us to continue to stand firm in our walk with

the Lord as we continue to establish a church. Dave and Audrey Wiebe were installed as the pastoral couple of Kirkcaldy Heights Fellowship. Dave then accepted twelve more as members in our church. Rob and Eleanor Reimer. Al and Pat Fuller. Art and Cheryl Penner. Gary and Karen Hildebrandt, Gari and Cindy Brandt. Ruth Thiessen and Irene Thiessen were the first to join as a body of believers to form an Evangelical Mennonite Church here in Brandon. After the service we all gathered for coffee and cake and an hour of fellowship. We as a church really felt God’s love and blessing in our lives on that special day. ■The Region 4 conference at Kola was en­ joyed by many of us during the August 9-10 weekend. The theme. “Missions for Everyone," was very fitting for our small group as we witness to our neighbours and friends. From August 22-24 our church enjoyed a weekend of camping at Cross Roads Range. N.D. (just east of the Peace Garden). We were spiritually challenged by the four Bible studies on prayer, which the men took turns leading. We were also kept busy taking ad­ vantage of this Christian camp's facilities horseback riding, canoeing, and swimming. The children had a great time running after and playing with the turtles that were readily found in the lake. Evenings were a special time of visiting around the campfire. We left the camp having thoroughly enjoyed the fellowship that we had shared. On September 7 we invited our friends to join us at Harry's Ukrainian Kitchen for a Pro­ motional Banquet. After a delicious supper we had an evening of special music, games and fellowship. This was a great way to start off our fall program.

BAPTISMAL SERVICE HELD Arden, Man.: The youth group was thankful for the beautiful weather on August 17, 18. and 19 as they camped out at Lake Katherine in Riding Mountain Park, chaperoned by Jerry and Phyllis Plett. It was a perfect op­ portunity to enjoy God's creation in the great outdoors. On August 24 all DVBS teachers, helpers and their spouses were invited to a barbecue at the Arden Park. It was nice to get together again with all those who had been involved with running this summer's DVBS program. School is back in session and it's good to see the church attendance back up to normal again. Promotion Sunday. September 7, saw many children advanced to the next level of Sunday school. Family night is in full swing now since September 19 and so far the at­ tendance has been good. A special event took place September 14 when Cindy Plett was baptized in the river at the Arden Park. It was Pastor Jerry Plett's first baptismal service. Everyone was welcome to THE MESSENGER

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Cindy Plett was baptized by Pastor Jerry Plett on September 14 in the river at Arden, Man.

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stay at the church for a fellowship dinner and the communion service which followed. Pastor Jerry and his wife Phyllis came to Arden three years ago in September which meant that their first term at Arden was over. At a membership meeting October 16 it was a unanimous decision to extend another threeyear term to them. We praise the Lord for their commitment in serving Him here at Arden. Meatballs and turkey with all the trimmings were on the menu for our Thanksgiving din­ ner on October 19. There was more than enough food, so after our Thanksgiving pro­ gram we all stayed for faspa. The special feature for the Thanksgiving service was a report and slide presentation by Murray and Florence Carter, missionaries in Italy.

GOOD READING PROMOTED

Rosenort, Man.: Brother Harry Neufeld spoke to us in the morning service on September 21. His theme was “To Know God” (11 Peter 1:1-11) . A blessed time of ad­ ding virtue to knowledge! Our youth group put into practice what they had heard when on Tuesday evening they visited and sang at the Eventide Home. On October 5 they viewed the mission-oriented film, “The Wait of the World.” Wendi Brandt of California, representing Eastern European Bible Mission, spoke at our September Mission Night. She also showed a film on “smuggling” Bibles to Eastern Europe. It is fraught with danger, but appears to be the only way to begin making up the shortfall of Bibles there. The Bible societies do what they can, but this is not enough. October 5 was our “Library Sunday,” pro­ moting good reading, especially of the Book of books. “Read and Grow” was the theme of Benny Friesen’s message. Our library and resource rooms have been combined into one NOVEMBER 14, 1986

large room, open for browsing and book selection. Mrs. Peter K. Kroeker and Mrs. Jack Pen­ ner are both convalescing well after major surgery. Mrs. Penner, now residing in Fort Garry, had open heart surgery on October 3. Young Brent Dueck, son of Ben and Elvira Dueck, was trying out the new playground equipment at school when he fell and broke his elbow. What a bother for an active fellow! Brian Loewen, son of Johnny and Sarah Loewen, had an appendectomy on October 19. Frank K. Kroekers are visiting their mis­ sionary children, Rick and Lavina Kroeker, in Germany. October 8 was the date of a Thanksgiving get-together of our Golden Age group. They had invited the Winkler Senior Citizens' Or­ chestra to play for them; it was much ap­ preciated. The banquet featured chicken with all the trimmings. The entire church family had a Thanksgiv­ ing evening two days later, which featured the film “Never Ashamed.” We saw the disastrous results of “hiding your light under a bushel” and the victory possible if you let God work through you. Pie and coffee rounded out the evening. We have a new choir director in Colin Reimer. The group sang at the Union Gospel Mission on October 30. Peter and Anne Kroeker have adopted Nicole (10) and Patrick (8), who will be welcome playmates for 14-year-old Cindy. God bless your growing family! Ernest Klassen, co-founder of Brake Bible School in Germany, spoke to us on October 19 in his lively, inimitable way. Dave and Susie Eidse gave a mission report as well as a slide presentation and a devotional in our church on October 26. They desire our prayers for further direction regarding their return to Mexico. (Their immigration papers are still stalled.)

REACHING OUT Endeavour, Sask.: It has been a busy sum­ mer filled with the wonder, power and glory of God at work. Our camp in July hosted 105 children and 53 teens. To see them flourish under the teaching of God’s Word brings joy to the hearts of those who work with them. Despite two vicious hailstorms two hours apart, we re­ joiced, knowing that God was very present, as He is during all of life’s storms. Each evening, July 28 to August 1, up to 70 children and 11 teachers gathered at the chapel for DVBS. The theme this year was “Jesus, I Love You,” and the highlight of each evening was a Bible story by Fred Buhler. Fri­ day evening parents and friends visited the children’s classrooms and enjoyed a short pro­ gram. Our prayer again is that the seed so aptly sown in the hearts of these people will take root and grow and produce much fruit

in the years ahead. The people of our area again hosted the “Second Day of Celebration.” Plans were made by people from our church and another church. The day was designed to reach non­ Christians with the Gospel through testimonies and contemporary music. Three testimonies were shared throughout the day by Pastor Ron Mills of Saskatoon; Doug Stadniuk, a drug/alcohol counsellor from Saska­ toon; and by Dave Silver, who shared how he had become entangled in the drug and secular rock music scenes and had later become a Christian. Music for the day was provided by two soloists, Greg Plett and Gary Wilkinson, and two bands, “Sign Post” and “Frontline.” We believe the day accomplished what we hoped for; of those attending about 75 were non­ Christians. Praise the Lord! Promotion - the act of helping to grow or develop. The coming of fall brings promotions of various kinds. For the wee ones it means a first real Sunday school class. For others it means going from children’s club to the youth group; and for some, Bible school and univer­ sity. We have seen all of these this fall and our prayer is that they will be true promotions where each one will be helped to grow. Sunday, October 5, we had membership reception in our church. Isobel Schur, Bradley and Carol Steppan, Brent and Cheryl Greba and Pete and Rose Steppan were accepted as members. Each one gave a short testimony of what God means in his/her life. October 10 was an exciting evening at children’s club when the Zinchews from Benito, Man. presented a program which was highlighted with a puppet show. The annual meeting on October 22 saw some changes in boards and committees, giv­ ing some a chance to serve in new places. Another annual event was the fall supper put on by the ladies' group. Among the guests were two former pastors and Ed Friesen, Con­ ference Pastor. The potluck meal was delicious, prompting the remark, “If this is potluck, what would a planned meal be like?” The program which followed was enjoyed by all. We are truly thankful for the recent good weather, allowing crops to be harvested.

MISSIONARY CONFERENCE HELD

Steinbach EFC, Man.: Our Thanksgiving Supper was held October 9 in the church basement with a very good turn-out, including a few guests. The supper, consisting of tradi­ tional food, was enjoyed by everyone. The special guests, Ruth Oomen and Doreen Klassen, who are instructors at SBC, presented some messages in song. Following their singing, our pastor. Milton Fast, gave a short devotional. Our Missions Conference was held October 23-26. The theme this year was “Fan into

PAGE 9

Flame Your Spiritual Gift in the Light of World Missions." The guest speaker was Marvin Thiessen, missionary to Brazil with the Janz Team. Other missionaries that came for the weekend were Fred and Irene Buhler, mis­ sionaries to Paraguay; Agnes Friesen with CSSM; and Catherine Thiessen, missionary to Mexico with the EMC Board of Missions Marvin Thiessen gave inspiring messages dur­ ing the weekend. The children enjoyed Agnes Friesen with her stories and activities. Fred Buhler gave a progressive mission report about Paraguay. A fellowship breakfast took place on October 25 with the members of the church and missionaries, followed by a children's rally with Agnes Friesen and separate men's and ladies' meetings with Paul and Lois Thiessen. Special music was provid­ ed each evening by various groups. The con­ ference was well attended and everyone was enriched by the messages given by Marvin Thiessen. He also enjoyed the fellowship and singing during his stay at our church. SUPPORTING EACH OTHER Saskatoon, Sask.: Blessed is the name of the Lord! In Saskatoon we are thankful that the Lord loves each one of us. The members of the church have experienced ups and downs but are happy that we can meet and give praise to God.

We give thanks for new children born to members. Our small church continues to be dominated by a majority of children. We also continue to give thanks for the souls coming to the Saviour at the Saskatoon Correctional Centre. Both our personal families and the family we have in Jesus Christ are a blessing to us. A regular church men's prayer breakfast has been started and at the first gathering the gift of family was discussed. The church's ladies' group has continued to prepare items to send to people in Haiti. As well, the children's Sun­ day school classes are supporting one Haitian child. Supporting each other through the church has been a blessing and we ask for your prayers for us and for those who come to our church "to have a look."

Pastor Friesen and his family had a good visit in Mexico this summer. He and members of our congregation also attended the EMC Region 2 conference in early October in Swift Current. The latest gathering was for our Thanksgiving dinner, held at the church. Everyone had a good time.

PAGE 10

Book Review Money and Power by Jacques Ellul. Downers Grove, III.: Inter-Varsity Press, 1984. Paperback. 173 pp. Reuiewed by Ray Friesen Few, if any, of us are used to thinking of money as a power. The coins in our pockets and the bills in our wallets seem quite powerless, ours to do with as we please - like any other piece of metal or strip of paper. We do at times recognize that to have money is to have power. For example, if you have $10.00 and I have $50.00 and we are bid­ ding on the same item at an auction sale, we know that I can buy it if I please; i.e., I have power over you. Jacques Ellul, in his book. Money and Power, goes further than this and states that money, in and of itself, is a power. He writes. What Jesus is revealing (in his discussion of Mammon) is that money is a power . . . Power is something that acts by itself, is capable of mov­ ing other things, is autonomous (or claims to be), is a law unto itself, and presents itself as an ac­ tive agent . . Money is not a power because it is the means of wealth or because accumulating money makes things possible. It is a power before all that, and those exterior signs are only the manifestations of this power which has, or claims to have, a reality of its own (75-76). In his opening chapter Ellul outlines the problem of our responses to money historical­ ly. In particular he feels that too much em­ phasis has been placed on the corporateness of the problem and the bringing of change through changing or replacing our economic systems. The second chapter examines the Old Testament teachings on wealth. He men­ tions its close association with righteous men like Abraham, Job, and Solomon, its ability to tempt us, and its receipt from God as a blessing. In the Old Testament, according to Ellul, wealth was a sacrament, a present sign of the coming New Jerusalem. The danger faced by the people was that they might (and did) give to the sign the worship that was due to that which it was a sign of. It is in the third chapter of the book that the author really develops the idea of money as power, basing his argument almost entirely on Jesus' teaching on Mammon. As Mammon, money is a spiritual power which demands our loyalty, "tries to be like God, which makes itself our master and which has specific goals” (76). Therefore, we must choose between God and Mammon. There is no way of for­ ming an alliance between these two enemies. As this evil power, money will seek to cor­ rupt all it can, gaining total mastery over its slaves (all of us. unless we say. 'No', and tak­ ing us to destruction with itself. Withdrawing from the use of money is not an option for the Christian. Rather, the Chris­ tian is called to live within a world of evil and

rebellion and to be faithful to God within that world. As people with money and as a peo­ ple of faith we are called to live with money according to God's will, “to accomplish something extraordinary.” In this the Chris­ tian will always side with people against money in business transactions, in lending money and in paying fair wages. By rejecting savings and not worrying, the Christian will show his/her freedom from the love of money. This activity, along with giving our money to God (actually giving it, not just say­ ing it's his and then using it “for him”) will destroy money’s power. Ellul writes, “An ob­ ject which belonged to a hostile power is torn from him in order to be turned over to the true God” (111). Chapter four encourages us to teach our children realistically and carefully about the true nature of money and power. Chapter five discusses the Biblical teachings on the haves and have-nots. The Bible has very harsh things to say to the rich and has a very car­ ing, redemptive message for the poor (so unlike our world and twentieth century Christianty). The existence of the poor is our call by God to get involved, not simply by giving money but by total involvement with and for them. When we see the poor as God’s personal question in our lives, . . . the existence of misfortune becomes intolerable to us, and we will agree to do anything, to risk everything, to involve ourselves totally so that the situation of the poor can be changed (158). Ellul continues. We must take personal responsibility for the state of the poor; this is being responsible before God . . . To accept our responsibility is to enter into the spiritual and material condition of those who put God’s question to the world. It is, in fact, to become poor ourselves with the poor, with the Poor One (160). There are a few problems with the book. One is Ellul’s existentialism that is too quick to place the entire onus on the individual and to disregard the corporateness of the problem and the need to deal with and address systems. A second is an inadequate explana­ tion of the change from wealth as sacrament to money as Mammon. A third problem (and it relates to the second) is the fact that at times the five chapters seem to be five separate ar­ ticles collected in one book. Despite these shortcomings (no books are perfect) J. Ellul has given us an important con­ tribution to our ongoing discussion about how to be a people of faith in a situation of wealth. Along with Ron Sider’s Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger and John White's The Golden Cow. Money and Power should be read and studied by all those who wish not only to believe as Christians but also wish to live as Christians. To make the book more helpful we now need for a few of our businessmen, farmers, accountants and bankers to take this theology and develop its implications for life in day-to-day business, for the book is really a call to reject the world's ways of dealing with money and to replace them with Biblical ones.

THE MESSENGER

Births REIMER - to Alvin and Mildred Reimer of Win­ nipeg. Man., a son. Tylor Jerome, on September 24, 1986. KOOP ■ to Darrel and Margi Koop of Winnipeg. Man., a son Derek Oliver, on September 19. 1986. MARTENS - to David and Lenora Martens of Win­ nipeg. Man., a daughter. Stephanie Lenora, on Oc­ tober 19, 1986, CASSELL - to Bill and Ruby Cassell of Winnipeg, Man,, a son, Eric Troy, on August 21, 1986, SCHUR - to Gary and Judy Schur of Endeavour, Sask,, a son, Adriei Gary, on October 13, 1986, PLANTZ - to John and Irene Plantz of Fisher Branch, Man,, a son, Seth Jeremy Phillip, on August 9, 1986, STOESZ - to Gerald and Kim Stoesz of Edmon­ ton, Alta,, a son. Brandin David, on October 16, 1986,

MCC Canada Personnel Assistant, Winnipeg Assignment start date: January 5, 1987 Qualifications; - Previous MCC experience - Can communicate sensitively with applicants - Willing to travel to Western Provinces - Experience in addressing groups preferable - Administrative skills and organiza­ tional abilities Responsibilities (shared); - Processing applications of persons considering a voluntary service assignment - Coordinating the placement of ap­ plicants in Canadian assignments - Recruiting of volunteers in churches and schools - Planning and conducting one North American and one SALT Canada orienta­ tion per year - Preparing reports

MCC Canada Office Assistant, Ottawa Assignment start date: Decembers, 1986 Qualifications: - Low German facility - Inclination to do detailed, thorough work unsupervised - Ability to write

Responsibilities: - Secretarial work - Qffice and financial managing work Kanadier work with Mexican Mennonites - Other services such as responding to constituents and obtaining visas for MCC workers For an application form call: Harold Koslowsky Coordinator of Personnel and Ad­ ministrative Service

(204)261-6381 MCC Canada 134 Plaza Drive Winnipeg, Man.

R3T 5K9

DAVID THIESSEN 1909-1986

“( haue fought a good fight. I haue finish­ ed my course. I haue kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall giue me at that dag: and not to me onig. but unto all them also that loue His appearing." (2 Timothg 4:7-8). David Plett Thiessen, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed on to be with our Lord at 9:00 p.m. on Monday. October 27, 1986 at the Stein­ bach Bethesda Hospital, reaching the age of 77 years. 6 months and 7 days. Dad was born to Peter and Katharina Thiessen at Giroux on April 20, 1909. He received his education in the Blumenhof and Ekron schools. He accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal Saviour at the age of 22 and was baptized on July 12, 1931. He was received into the Kleingemeinde Church (now E M C.) that same day and remained a faithful member until his death. He married our mother. Katherine Penner, on December 13 of the same year, and together they shared joys and difficulties for nearly 55 years. During this time 15 children were born to them. They were elected into the ministry at the Blumenort E M C. in 1952. They farmed in the Blumenort area until 1954 when the fami­ ly moved to Riverton. Manitoba. Being a farmer at heart, he wanted his sons to have an opportunity to get into farming as well. Another reason for the move was to take up the pastorate in the Mennville church. He served as pastor in that church for 20 years. Three years after giving up the pastorate he retired from farming as well and moved back to Blumenort. Dad enjoyed very good health for most of his life. He had two accidents which resulted in serious injuries, but he recuperated very well. He had his first heart attack in February of 1985 and again recuperated remarkably well. He was hospitalized for the last time on

Sunday. October 19, 1986, after his second attack. After being critically ill for two days he again appeared to be improving until Mon­ day, October 27, when he had his fatal attack. “We remember you. Dad, as a man who enjoyed working and took great pride and satisfaction in work well done. “We remember you as a man with a keen interest in missions. It was a great thrill for you to see your children and grandchildren become interested and involved in missions. You personally exemplified this by, even after retirement, spending four months in Mexico yourself. “You had a great love for people, especially children, and your grandchildren will remember you for that. You loved to go out and meet people and many will remember your visits. “We remember you. Dad, as one who lov­ ed to serve the Lord which you did as long as health permitted. Your faithfulness with Bi­ ble studies at Ashwood, Birchwood and Oakwood Apartments encourages us to follow your example - serving until death. “It hurt to see you go. Dad. We prayed much for your recovery, but after seeing you in agonizing pain our prayers changed to, ‘If you will. Lord, take him home.’ It is a com­ fort to know that you led a full and meaningful life, that you were ready to go, and are now in the presence of your Lord, whom you lov­ ed to «erve. "We will miss you. Dad. Your favorite chair in the living room is vacant, but thank you for these memories and examples you have left for us.” He will be remembered and greatly miss­ ed by his wife Katherine, six sons, Arden and wife Helen, Blumenort, Man.; Dennis and wife Sara, Endeavour, Sask.; David and wife Merna, Calgary. Alta.; Bernie and wife Irma, Bowsman, Man.; Harold and wife Laura, Bowsman, Man.; Gerald and wife Ruth, Blumenort, Man.; nine daughters, Doris, El Paso, Texas; Mary and husband Menno Pen­ ner. Arborg, Man.; Catherine, Chihuahua Ci­ ty, Mexico; Levina and husband Harry Friesen. Seminole, Texas; Grace and hus­ band Karl Goertzen, Winnipeg, Man.; Janice and husband Dennis Kroeker, Riverton, Man.; Betty and husband Wilbert Friesen, Steinbach. Man.; Louella and husband Ray Kroeker, Riverton, Man.; Darlene and hus­ band Henry Remple, Winnipeg, Man.; 41 grandchildren, one great-grandchild, four brothers. Peter, Frank, Ben. and Diedrich Thiessen; four sisters, Mrs. Helen Penner, Mrs. Katherine Penner. Mrs. Margaret Loewen, Mrs. Sara Penner, as well as in-laws, nieces and nephews and a host of friends. He was predeceased by his parents, his brother John three months ago, and a sister in infancy. As a family we wish to express our sincere appreciation for the heartfelt sympathy and love extended to us in our present bereave­ ment. We thank you all. The famili;

NOVEMBER 14, 1986

PAGE 11

From the Editor Blessed are the Peacemakers Blessed are the peacemtkers for they shall be called the sons of God (Matt. 5:9). SOME OF US MAY recall that the main theme of our 1985 annual convention was “Peace and Conflict in the Christian Community” (F. C. Peters). This was good and in order. However, it did not deal with the peace question in the larger Christian community, the world, and our relationship to it. And so I feel that we who belong to the Historic Peace Chur­ ches maybe are too complacent about our historic peace tradi­ tion. (In 1986 worldwide membership totals for Mennonite and related churches comes to 774,000 according to a world member­ ship summary compiled by Mennonite World Conference.) If it wasn’t for the fact that the peace teaching was very im­ portant to our forefathers, many of us would likely be citizens of the USSR today. Our forefathers, as pilgrims and strangers, had been on the move from the Netherlands to Prussia to Russia, because of their faith. The Russian experience begins towards the close of the 18th century. One of the appealing aspects of the migration was the offer of Catherine the Great for sweeping religious and other forms of freedom - exemption from military service, allowance to worship God in their accustomed way; administration of their civil order and complete control over their schools. However, in time, there grew a desire for an alternative to the tzarist government among Russians. Special privileges granted to foreign groups came under review. In 1870 a decree ended the unique position of the German colonists. A military conscription bill was passed in 1874. Although there were modifications later, almost a third of the Mennonites left Russia for Canada and the United States. In Canada again they got the promise of military exemption. Some 65 years later (World War H, 1939-1945) the Canadian government still recognized this promise, as I personally experienced. I had no question where my ultimate loyalties lay when I had to appear before the .judge to answer for my convictions as a CO (Conscientious Objector) in Winnipeg in the early forties. Many COs, of course, did their alternative service in forestry camps or farm work, some in Portage la Prairie or Brandon in­ stitutional work. I did mine as a lumber worker at Hudson Bay, Sask., where m,v employer had a lumber operation. And so it happened that my young wife and I and our son of almost two years arrived at Hudson Bay (Junction at that time) at 3:30 a.m. on June 1, 1943 to begin our alternative service, which included handing over part of our salary to the Canadian Red Cross. In May of 1946 I got the welcome news that Red Cross payments were suspended. In July of the same year a mailing stated that under “order-in-Council PC. 3030 that the regula­ tions governing men of your status will be revoked as of August 1946.” That was the end of my alternative service. (We had come home in the meantime, I think in 1944.) Although the peace position is unique to the Historic Peace Churches, which includes Mennonite, it is of interest to note that already in World War H a “Distribution of COs according to

PAGE 12

Racial Origin” listed 31 racial groups. True, those listed as Dutch, Russian and German were in the majority, but there also were English, Scotch, Irish, etc.; in all, 31 racist groups. Today the tables are turned. With the possibility of a nuclear holocaust, to be a peace witness no longer carries the stigma it did 45 years ago. A few illustrations will support this. The September-October 1985 issue of “Peace Section Newslet­ ter” (M(jC) carried a report on interviews done by World Peacemakers of “staff persons carrying responsibility for arms control, disarmament and/or peacemaking in thirteen Protes­ tant denominations,” among them Baptist, Lutheran, Reform­ ed, Presbyterian. The findings are listed. Among them are adop­ ting a “Mandate for Peacemaking” (American Lutheran), “Peacemaking: The Believers’ Calling” (Presbyterian USA), and a first ever American Baptist Peace Conference (American Bap­ tist). “In 1979 the General Synod of the Reformed Church in America sounded a clear and resounding ‘no’ to nuclear armaments.” The United Methodist bishops have brought down an “episcopal address” denouncing warfare and rejecting both nuclear and conventional weapons according to an editorial in the Mennonite Weekly Review entitled “Mainliners Move Towards a Peace Stance” (May 31/84). It might be well here to remind ourselves of our statement on the peace position as outlined in The Constitution and ByLaws of our Conference (pp. 16, 17). I wonder, are we giving this article its proper place in our Christian Life classes? (See also the statement on “Love and Peace” in The Christian Life, pp. 49-50.) At present we are, of course, riding the crest of the peace posi­ tion. It has not always been as popular as now. Some who did not get their CO status in WWH were put in prison, some were called “yellowbacks.” Could it then be that, while others are becoming more and more aware of the peace position (as outlined previously), we are receding? At the 1984 sessions of Mennonite World Conference (Strasbourg, France) one of the speakers made a very bold peace­ keeping proposal, one that has now been picked up for discus­ sion by Mennonite and Brethren in Christ Churches in North America. Briefly, it is the idea of Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT) - “nonviolent approaches to conflict resolution” (Ronald J. Sider). “The goal of the CPT would be to witness to Jesus Christ as we seek to identify with the suffering, promote peace, reduce violence, identify with those caught in violence and oppression, and foster justice by using the techniques of non-violent direct action. In situations of conflict between nations or societal groups within nations, CPT would place a body of praying, welltrained Christians in the midst of warring parties or groups in order to foster shalom. By standing between hostile groups, documenting and reporting atrocities and human rights viola­ tions, and challenging evil by the physical presence of praying Christians, CPT would hope to promote peace, justice and freedom” (Christian Peacemaker Teams). Is this maybe what the Historic Peace Churches should do next? D.S.

THE MESSENGER

M