!■
Th© Messenger EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE
Vol. 24 No. 26
26, /86 Dec. 26,
A request for adoptive parents was passed on to people in Mennonite churches. Interested peo ple called ... most dropped their inquiries once they discovered the disabilities/handicaps of the baby.
About Abortion:
A Story of Hope Bernie Wiebe The first chapter. On March 1, 1984, Wayne Plenert, a lawyer, who was also the moderator of the Mennonite Brethren congregation at
PAGE 2
Dawson Creek, British Columbia, called my office about a baby boy born prematurely on February 22, 1984, to a single, young girl. The
young mother did not believe in abortion and had hoped to keep her child. But when he was born with severe disabilities, she felt the baby needed more care than she could give. With the support of family and the father of the child, she requested Plenert’s help to place her son for adoption. This request for adoptive parents was passed on to people in Mennonite churches. Interested people called from several states and pro vinces. Most dropped their inquiries once they discovered the disabilities/ handicaps of the baby. Elizabeth Wiebe, age 28, single, a graduate in early childhood educa tion, member of the Foothills Mennonite Church at Calgary, Alberta, went to meet this baby boy on April 8 and took Nolan home with her on April 13, 1984. She says that when she first heard of Nolan, she felt here was a person who needed other people. He was given the gift of life by God and deserved the same care and oppor tunities anyone else had. The first chapter was written up in The Mennonite (“An encouraging chapter on abortion,” Oct. 9, 1984 issue, pp. 482-483), and in the Men nonite Medical Messenger (“About abortion: a story of hope,” Jan.Mar. 1985 issue, pp. 28-32). Abortion: beliefs and practices. At that time, as well as today, this case could help us put abortion into a better total perspective. We know that the debate - both pro and con - goes on unabated among us. Mennonites have deep com mitments to life-giving beliefs. For 460 years we have professed to believe that life is so sacred a trust that we should not kill - in suicide, in capital punishment, in murder, or in war. We’ve not been unanimous that abortion is in the same category. But the vast majority of Mennonites are “pro-life” here too. A test such as this baby boy needing adoptive parenting calls our “bluff.” Do we believe in thought only? Or, do we believe also in practice? It is one thing to confess and to shout anti-abortion slogans. It’s quite a different bailgame to accept the consequences. Is this the kind of thing Jesus
THE MESSENGER
I
would have included when he was teaching his disciples, “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you?” (Luke 6:46). Jesus
Nolan has an extensive vocabulary and loves to talk. goes on in that section to say that hearing and doing (believing and practicing?) his word requires careful planning and thorough assessment of consequent outcomes. One second chapter. In February 1985, a few days after Nolan’s first birthday, he became Elizabeth Wiebe’s legally adopted son. Elizabeth says, “In my heart he was my son from the day I met him . . . maybe even before that” (correspondence with writer, Oct. 1986). In that same letter, Elizabeth asked me to continue Nolan’s and her story. She believes many people must wonder how it’s been the past two-and-a-half years. And she wants other people to have courage when such opportunities come. Her opi nion is that other potential parents “missed out” on something special. Of Nolan, his mother says, “ . . . anyone who has met Nolan does not forget him. He’s a charmer. He tells women they have cute babies. He stops to talk to babies. He stops men in the store to show them something. He calls all older women ‘Grandma’ and stops to talk to them. He’s polite.” About Nolan. Nolan was born with hydrocephalis (water accu mulates in the cranial cavity and is drained with a shunt) and with spina bifida (a congenital cleft of the vertebral column with hernial protru sion of the meninges). At nine months, the shunt had to be revised. In May 1986 he had her nia surgery and in 1987 the shunt will require revision again. Nolan also has strabismus - his eyes don’t focus at the same point at
the same time. This means regularly wearing a patch over the stronger eye so that the weaker one gets extra exercise, and wearing special glasses. There are allergies, the extent as yet undetermined. He needs or thopedic help for his right foot. Because he has little sensation below his waist, his skin needs to be check ed daily for pressure sores. Born with a multicystic kidney, Nolan has only one functioning kidney. He has no bowel or bladder control. A child with some handicaps. Some of Nolan’s favorite recreations are throwing rocks into the water and swimming. For swimming, he has to wear stockings, socks and a long sleeved shirt to protect his skin. While others stare, he pays no heed and has great fun splashing and crawling through the water. He has an extensive vocabulary and loves to talk. When not talking, he sings, whistles or plays musical in struments. While others sometimes show embarrassment in his presence and shy away, he shows no such tendencies. Is he a handicapped child? Elizabeth says Nolan is child first; his disabilities or handicaps are total ly secondary. Perhaps God just gave him alternative abilities. Through assistance from social agencies, Nolan has his own “STAR CAR” - a miniature wheelchair designed for children with Spina Bifida. He also has a Parapodium that permits him to stand and leaves his arms free to play. The extended family is deeply cherished by Nolan. Not without clouds. Elizabeth Wiebe says the way Nolan has won the hearts of her whole family seems like an answer to prayer. She wonders, though, how it all fits into God’s will. No, it hasn’t always been a path of roses. There have been days of frustration and depression - the most severe times came when Nolan was being ignored and hurt. But there’s more. When her sister could no longer care for Nolan while
she was at work, Elizabeth decided to give up her job for a year (as of Nov. 15, 1986). It means going total ly on social services, but this mother says her child comes before a job at this point. Nolan needs the extra care to get the necessary treatments and exercises which can prepare him to one day live independently. Her career can continue at any other time. A cloud of uncertainty hangs over
There have also been days of frustration and depression. the outcomes. But the commitment is made. No discount on discipleship. Words come cheap, fast and in fan tastic multiples. The rhetoric against abortion - from Christians - would fill many volumes. How many stories do we see and write ourselves to back up this rhetoric? Ours is a time when most people expect to buy things at a discount. MSLPs (Manufacturers’ Suggested List Prices) are almost meaningless in today’s marketplace. But, there is no discount on discipleship. When you and I stand up for Jesus, the die is cast. We live for the future in all circumstances. When we confess to be against abortion, we heed the needs of un wed mothers, unwanted pregnancies and babies with alternative abilities. In the historic train of Mary of Nazareth and another Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist, Elizabeth Wiebe demonstrates to all of us what it means to join sacred history. It has pleasant and tough surprises. Only chapters one and two of the much bigger unfolding drama are now written. By faith we look for ward to more. ■
THE MESSENGER is published every other week by The Evangelical Mennonite Conference, Board of Education and Publication, Box 1268, Stein bach, Manitoba, ROA 2A0. Second Class Mail; Registration Number 0591. Undeliverable copies, change of address and new subscriptions should be mailed to the above address. The Messenger is a member of Meetinghouse.
DECEMBER 26, 1986
PAGE 3
IIIVII LP.--’-
JSfe 'f
• 'V 1; '■ ■
i-
Left to right: Leonard Barkman (pastor), Betty Barkman, Dennis Friesen (assistant pastor) and wife Agatha, Jake Penner (deacon) and wife Margaret.
George Wiens (song leader) leading the singing.
BEGAN AS AN OUTREACH
Pansy EMC Church Profile By Dave Schellenberg
SITUATED some 28 kilometers mainly south of Steinbach, Man. is the mixed farming district of Pansy. It is to this area that the Blumenort Home Mis sions Committee was led to begin an outreach ministry around 1960. Also during this time a young man, Leonard Barkman, of the congregation, heard the announcement for a need of outreach workers for Pansy. Shortly after this, Mr. Barkman,
L
together with another brother, Arnold Brandt, started commuting to Pansy to hold Sunday school in the adjacent Barkfield School. (This same school now graces the grounds of the Mennonite Village Museum in Steinbach, Man.) Later also adult classes were conducted. Around 1961 things had advanced to the stage where a chapel was built. Blumenort supplied material and one
'1
Diane Goertzen was substituting for her sister Edna Patenaude in this Beginner class at Pansy.
PAGE 4
carpenter; volunteers did the rest. By 1962, encouraged by Blumenort, Leonard and Betty Barkman, as a young married couple, purchased a farm at Pansy and moved into the area. Leonard became the self-supported minister. He was ordained to the ministry in 1964. At the time of the move the Barkmans did not even have a telephone. Not long after the Barkmans came, another cou ple, George and Esther Wiebe, joined them. Later came Dennis Friesens; Den nis is now assistant pastor. He and his wife Agatha operate a dairy farm. Also during those years, school teachers would come to teach and help the Pansy church. Among these have been Alvin and Adina Kornelsen, Bert cant’d next page
Betty Braun teaches a Primary class.
THE MESSENGER
Wilbert Falk teacher of a Young Teens class at Pansy Chapel.
and Dora Penner, Ben and Betty Thiessen, and Norman and Rosella Bartel. Organization into an EMC church came for Pansy shortly after the Barkmans’ move. The Pansy church is a fellowship of some 50 households. There is a member ship of around 75. Attendance on Sun day mornings could be just over the 100 mark. One thing which the pastor feels is significant about Pansy Chapel is that it seems to attract people of various ethnic backgrounds, which also was the desire and goal of the Barkmans through the years. There is a young people’s group of around 15. Leaders are Wilbert Falk and
Wyatt Goertzen. They also have a yearly children’s rally. There has been an at tendance of around 75. A five-member church board consists of Mr. Barkman (pastor), Dennis Friesen (assistant pastor), Jake Penner (deacon), and two laymen, David Funk and Andy Fehr. Allen Holmes is secretary. The ladies are organized into three ac tivities: Sewing Circle, Prayer Sisters, and a ministry at Menno Home in Grunthal. The Sunday morning pattern is Sun day school followed by the worship ser vice. There are ten Sunday school classes. Mr. Ben Schlamp is the Sunday school superintendent. The pastor
Richard Klassen and young teens. DECEMBER 26, 1986
Thelma Goertzen and Alvina Falk (not pictured) are teachers in this nursery class.
preaches about three out of four Sun days. Assistant Pastor Dennis Friesen also presents sermons. Bible studies have been held both in church and home. Sunday worship service is conducted quite informally. One of the scheduled features is a slot for prayer. Special musical numbers are supplied by the congregation. Brethren take turns in Sunday school opening. A major church renovation project was undertaken in 1978, enlarging its seating capacity and Sunday facilities, etc. The church has a registered plot for a cemetery but as of now it has seen no burials. The Barkmans disposed of their dairy
Andy Fehr has a Junior Sunday school class at the church. PAGE 5
4
Dennis Braun, college and career class at Pansy.
in 1979. They are still farming part time. Betty is also quite a well-known writer. She has two books to her credit. Four Buds in His Bouquet (1980) and Anna (1985), as well as articles. She has also been a seminar leader at all three EMC Christian Writers’ Conferences (1981, 1983, 1986). Although Pansy is a rural area, a survey of how church people are
Brent Schlamp has a Junior class at Pansy.
employed makes it look almost as ad junct to Steinbach. A good number are employed in Steinbach. Farming (hogs, turkeys, dairy) could come in second as a means of livelihood. Some are engag ed in trucking as well as farming. The Pansy EMC Church gives one the impression of a warm, caring church. Why don’t you go and see for yourself?
Church Dedication Date: January 18, 1987 Place: La Crete Christian Fellowship, La Crete, Alta.
Time: 3:00 p.m.
Everyone attend!
is
welcome
to
Church Finances Workshops FOR: Pastors, Deacons, Treasurers and others involved in the stewardship and financial ministries of the church. DATE: January 24, 1987 PLACE: Braeside E.M.C. Church 1011 Munroe Winnipeg, Manitoba TIME: 9:00 a.m.-4;30 p.m. (Lunch will be served)
WORKSHOPS: 1. Government Regulations for Charities. 2. Receipting and Disbursements Systems 3. Financial Counselling 4. Financial Planning
Application forms will be available in the churches early in the New Year.
Sponsored by: E.M.C. Board of Finance. Leonard Barkman - adults. PAGE 6
THE MESSENGER
Missions THE BAHAMAS
Missions in The Bahamas? What is GMU Doing? The Bahamas! Gently swaying palm trees, a warm tropical sun caressing turquoise waters and white sand beaches, luxury resorts and exciting night life! This is the picture, painted by tourist brochures and travel agencies, that is readily accepted by most people. What is Gospel Missionary Union (and, by affiliation, EMC Missions) doing in the Bahamas? Is there a reason for missionaries to be working on an island paradise? Probably the best way to answer these reasonable ques tions is to give you the true picture of the Bahamas. When one looks beyond the glossy tourist brochure image, one finds that the Bahamas, especially the minor Family Islands, is basically a Third World country struggling to find itself. Poverty, political corruption, spiritual apathy, moral degradation, sudden wealth due to illicit drug trading, and the en suing drug abuse are all prevalent problems in today’s Bahamian society. The Bahamas is a country that desperately needs a spiritual awakening and, as such, is a valid field for missionary activity. Gospel Missionary Union is involved in four main tasks in the Bahamas: 1) Personal Outreach - GMU missionaries conduct Bible studies and Bible clubs, operate a Christian library, sell books, and do personal visitation in the communities. 2) Outreach by Mail - An EMC missionary, Harvey Plett, is involved in a correspondence course ministry which sees lessons sent out each month. This ministry reaches all Baha mian islands as well as other Caribbean countries. 3) Preaching and Teaching - Since most Bahamians already belong to churches and are very reluctant to attend new churches, GMU missionaries are not involved in church planting. However, they do work in co operation with national churches in the areas of preaching, teaching and music. 4) Windermere High School is the major focus of GMU’s missionary work in the Bahamas. The school has three main objec tives: a) Evangelization of the many non Christian students, b) training Christian students to continue in their Christian walk following graduation, and c) providing the best academic training possible. In a country of 220,000 people it is not unreasonable to think that some of our graduates will be spiritual, business or political leaders in the future. Many of the people on Eleuthera support
DECEMBER 26, 1986
the school and GMU’s other work, but opposi tion is present from local school administrators and the government (career missionaries have some difficulty receiving work permits). Op position to the Lord’s work strengthens the belief that the work is important and beneficial to the strengthening of the Bahamian Church. The purpose of this article is to answer the questions asked by many people about the usefulness of mission work in the Bahamas. I have asked myself this question and, after much thought, am totally convinced that mis sionary work is useful, even necessary, in this island paradise. -Allan Thiessen
How Long 0 Lord? “How long. O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?” This theme from Psalm 13 was the focus of a session taught by AIMM missionary Larry Hills recently in Southern Africa. A Bible teacher among the African Independent Churches of The Transkei, Hills’ instruction was soon put to the test. On Friday, October 31, Larry Hills was taken along with five others by security police from the offices of the Transkei Council of Churches (TCC) in Umtata and was held in Transkei’s Wellington Security Prison. Being detained under the Public Security Act, it was not possible for others to communicate with him until the time of his release 13 days later. During the two weeks of waiting, Christian friends and colleagues in Southern Africa and North America prayed fervently. Church and mission leaders sought appropriate channels of contact and appeal with those holding authority. But for many it seemed there was little recourse - except for prayer. Early on the morning of November 13, a North American phone rang in the home of AIMM Executive Secretary, Earl Roth. A clear voice said, “Good morning, this is Larry Hills.” “It was with great gratitude,” said Earl Roth, “that I heard Larry tell me he had been releas ed from detention that morning. Larry said he was treated ‘good’ and that the food was ‘alright.’ He had just telephoned his parents and they, too, were rejoicing.” All but one of the others detained were also released without charges being filed. A secretary employed by
the TCC continued to be held as of mid December. It appears the detention resulted as local authorities sought the source of mimeograph ed pamphlets critical of the government and considered to be of a seditious nature. The alleged criticisms coincided with celebrations in late October marking the tenth anniversary of Transkei’s declared independence from South Africa. The Transkei is a Switzerlandsize area that has been the traditional home of Xhosa-speaking peoples. It was the first of the designated “homelands” given selfgoverning status. TCC officers have stressed that they never authorized or permitted printing of such materials of a political nature in their office. They emphasized this is contrary to their policies. Larry Hills is continuing to work with Bible teaching ministries. Since his release, he con ducted another conference in which Bible studies and community development ideas are linked practically. In Larry’s previous conference the par ticipants composed a personalized paraphrase of the 13th Psalm. It included the words; “Lord, why have you deserted me? I am cry ing out to you, remember me.” But it also declared: “Lord, take away all my worries. Let me not be afraid to speak of your word . . . Lord, give light to my eyes so that they may see your salvation. As for me, I will trust in your mercy.” With this kind of faith Lany Hills continues his ministry. ■AIMM
Coming January 4, 1987 Day of Prayer, EMC Missions January 21-22 Consultation of Canadian Conference moderators and secre taries, Winnipeg, Man. January 22-23 MCC Canada Annual Meeting, Winnipeg, Man. February 7 EMC ministerial meeting, Crestview church February 13-16 Canadian Revival Fellow ship annual conference at Grant Memorial Baptist Church, Winnipeg, Man. March 13-14 EMC History Symposium, Steinbach Bible College May 15-17 Abundant Springs, Caronport, Sask.
CONTRIBUTORS: Bernie Wiebe is Research and Teaching Associate, Mennonite Studies Centre, Univer sity of Winnipeg. Allan Thiessen (Blumenort) is teaching in the Bahamas, under the Gospel Missionary Union. COVER: Pansy EM Church
PAGE 7
Messenger News /■
The Canadian Bible Society held their an nual rally here on September 21. A film was shown, a children’s story presented, and cof fee served later. Attendance was very good. Welcome home to Dave and Susie Eidse. They have had a very busy schedule giving reports at various mission conferences. They miss Mexico but are happy to be able to live in their own house and take on the privilege of being real grandparents.
DECEMBER - FULL OF CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES Helen and Aron Bueckert (center) with Ernie and wife Sarah on right and Gordon and wife Mary on left, eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren on the occasion of their 50th wedding anniversary celebrations at the Steinbach Bible College, November 15, 1986. Beside the wedding cake (center) is a 50th anniversary plaque which Helen’s parents received on their golden wedding in 1957.
COUPLE CELEBRATES 50TH ANNIVERSARY Steinbach, Man.: For Helena and Aron Bueckert of 214 First Ave. N. in Steinbach, November 15 was a memorable day when they celebrated their 50th wedding anniver sary amongst family and friends. Festivities took place at the Steinbach Bi ble College, with a program, followed by refreshments. Before moving to Steinbach in 1964 the Bueckerts lived in the Wymark, Sask, area, as well as 11 years in Paraguay. They have two married sons, eight grand children and two great-grandchildren. One son, Ernie, together with his wife Sarah and
family, operates a dairy farm near Steinbach. Gordon and Mary live in Winnipeg. Gordon is employed at Flo Form Industries while Mary is employed at the Health Sciences Center. On display also was a plaque bearing the words, “Herr, bleib bei uns, denn es will Abend werden” (Lord, stay with us because evening is coming). This plaque was one which Helen’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. A.G. Knelsen, had received at their Golden Wed ding in 1957. Friends and relatives came from as far away as B.C. and Saskatchewan.
AWANA CLUBS STARTED
Pleasant Valley, Man.: Our church, together with the Rosenort Church and the Rosenort Fellowship Chapel, started Awana children’s clubs this fall, under the direction of Larry Eidse. The meaning of the name Awana comes from the Bible - “Approved workmen are not ashamed” (2 Tim. 2:15). The clubs provide unique opportunities for boys and girls to learn the Word of God and it is a vital supplement to Sunday school. Every Wednesday night about 145 children gather at the Rosenort Fellowship Chapel to play games, sing, hear challenging messages and memorize scripture. The emphasis is on memorization and it is truly remarkable how children can memorize and retain what they have learned. Our October 13 Thanksgiving supper was a special treat this year because of our spacious area. However, our fellowship re mained on the same warm level as when we were cramped. It was vital and alive even PAGE 8
then, in spite of it, not just because of it! The service for the evening was an overall, in-depth view of DVBS and camp work done this summer. Brad Reimer was very emphatic in his reports. Taking the percentage of the membership that served this year, which was very good, we could have even better par ticipation next year. Grace Loewen was chairperson. DVBS workers were Rosaline Rempel, Renee and Darlene Reimer, Bonnie and Michael Friesen, Annie. Renalda and Luke Reimer, Grace and Joan Loewen. Sperling and Sanford areas were served. The camp duties this year were conducted by Chuck Friesen. A short, humorous skit was brought by campers involved, complete to the realistic barking of an annoying “dog.” Camp counsellors were Gerald Reimer, Pam Rempel, Randall Friesen and Kathy Bartel. The latter served as camp nurse also. It was the perfect Thanksgiving Day celebration.
Fort Garry, Man.: On August 24 John and Clara Koop and Mark and Sandy Wiebe transferred their membership to our church. We feel it is a real privilege to have them fellowship with us. September brought its annual spurt of newcomers to our church. The majority of these are College and Career age. To smooth things out as much as possible, a College and Career open house was held on September 10. There were approximately 50 college and career young people in attendance. On September 20 our ladies had a Ladies’ Prayer Breakfast at the Montcalm Gordon Hotel. We had a good time visiting and shar ing. A highlight was the sharing of Lydia Loewen on self-esteem, and the discussion that followed was very meaningful. October 25 and 26 saw our College and Career Group at Gimli Bible Camp for a retreat. Contributing to the overall success of the weekend were the speaker, Mr. Tassos Zanthropolis, who spoke on priorities, and, of course, the cooks, John and Clara Koop. A potluck dinner after church, followed by communion and footwashing, made October 19 a very special Sunday. Ward Parkinson gave a very appropriate message. Parent/child dedication was held on November 16. Taking part in the service were Bill and Ruby Cassell with Ryan, Bruce and Monica Friesen with Erika, Darrell and Margi Koop with Derek, David and Lenore Martins with Stephanie, and Alvin and Mildred Reimer with Tyler. December was, as usual, a busy month for us. December 1 found 35 ladies at the Mont calm Gordon for the ladies’ Christmas ban quet. December 7 the young marrieds were at the Ramada Inn for a smorg. The adult Christmas banquet at the church, with a pro gram by Rosalie Koop following, took place on the 10th. Our Sunday school presented their Christmas program on December 14. That evening the choir and drama program took place. Our second annual candlelight service was observed on December 21. It was a month full of Christmas festivities and celebrations. THE MESSENGER
gj
1 SSSSXmhAmdQmun pm TH
sssarss^ I
I
Baptismal service at the Mennville church. Left to right: Layton Friesen, Bonnie Barkman, Pat Friesen, Barry Barkman, Pastor Andrew Dueck.
BEAVER CREEK BIBLE CAMP ANNUAL MEETING HELD Mennville, Man.: On October 12 four young people were baptized and accepted into membership. That same evening we also had our communion service. On October 19 we had our church Thanksgiving supper, followed by a voluntary program. Quite a few people went to Fisher Branch on October 24 to take part in the Beaver Creek Bible Camp fellowship supper and an nual meeting. Our camp has had another good year. We have just finished Phase 3 of our longer range building program, which is the dining room/kitchen and offices. Phase 1 was the walk-in cooler. Phase 2 was the washrooms, now all incorporated into one building. The old dining room and kitchen will eventually become a storage and crafts room. October 31 to November 2 was our mis sions conference weekend. Due to the funeral of Rev. D.P. Thiessen in Blumenort. Marvin Thiessen’s report for the 31st was reschedul ed for December 7. The other missionary reports were brought by Paul Thiessen. Fred Buhler. Henry Klassen and John K. Reimer. The Sunday school presented a short pro gram on December 14. The Mennville School Christmas concert took place on December 19 and the choir presented their program on the 21st.
I r
I
CHALLENGED BY MISSIONS CONFERENCE Kieefeid, Man.; Today is one of those beautiful mornings. We were again reminded of God’s amaz ing grace at our missions conference, November 23-25. It was most encouraging to hear guest speaker, Fred Friesen of Didsbury, Alberta tell us of a tremendous movement of God in the Third World countries like Mex ico, Central America, Brazil and Africa. Sad
DECEMBER 26, 1986
Jake and Elsie Kliewer celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary on November 2.
Fred Friesen was the guest speaker at the missions conference at the Kieefeid church, November 23-25.
to say, Canada and the USA are losing ground. Other speakers during our conference in cluded Cathy Thiessen, missionary to Mex ico; Fred and Irene Buhler, involved in church planting in East Paraguay; Paul and Lois Thiessen, Africa, involved in language and Bi ble translation; an eye-opening report from Ben Friesen, EMC Board of Missions; Werner Hauser, Brazil, teaching at a Bible college and hoping to go more into Christian counselling; Alvira Friesen, 13 years in Panama, teaching and counselling. An interesting panel discus sion, led by Jon Bonk, included Harry and Tina Neufeld, Ernie and Mary Ann Loewen, and Fred and Irene Buhler, all missionaries to Paraguay. How are our Mennonite brothers and sisters getting along in Russia? To find out, MCC sent a music/ministry tour group to the USSR in August. Rudy and Henrietta Schellenberg, Bill and Irmgard Berg and Jake Klassen were among those who shared in this unique ex perience. They presented a most interesting report on October 19 at our church. The pur pose of this tour was to strengthen the bond of love and fellowship between North American and Soviet Union Christians. And, as Rudy said, “We were impressed by the sincere warmth and gracious affection shown to us wherever we went, and we hope and pray that we and MCC can continue to meet the needs of our brothers and sisters in the USSR.” Phil and Ellen Koop have been with us now for about six weeks and we have enjoyed their fellowship so very much! They left December 2 for the USA and then on to Brazil to spend Christmas with their parents, the Abe Koops, whom they have not seen for five years. They plan to go back to the Philippines in spring of 1987. A happy occasion for Jake and Elsie Kliewer was the celebration of their 45th wed ding anniversary, which took place with an Open House on November 2. We sincerely wish them many more happy years together! Another important occasion was the
parent/child dedication service on September 28. Those taking part in this service were Abe and Grace Enns with sons. Jonathan and Justin; Merle and Sheila Koop and children. Holly. Joshua and Jethro. Jesus said. “Let the little children come to me.” Jesus also said. “The death of a saint is precious in the sight of the Lord.” The funeral service for Leonora Isaac was held on November 27. Our heartfelt sympathy and prayers are extended to Henry Isaac and family.
Births KORNELSEN - to Art and Alma Kornelsen of Kieefeid, Man., a daughter, Giselle Leanne, on Oc tober 21, 1986. DUECK - to Wes and Jerlene Dueck of Kieefeid, a son, Matthew Ryan, on December 2, 1986. DUECK - to Ray and Martha Dueck of Riverton, Man., a daughter, Alayna Samantha Racheal, on November 10, 1986. DUECK - to Bryan and Kathy Dueck of Riverton, Man., a son. Jensen Tyler, on October 28, 1986. NEUFELD - to Larry and Lois Neufeld of LaCrete, Alta., a son, Kenton Richard, on November 26, 1986.
Weddings DRIEDGER-FEHR; Peter Driedger and Martha Fehr were married on November 30, 1986. The wedding took place at the LaCrete Christian Fellowship in LaCrete, Aka., with Charles Koop of LaCrete officiating. The couple is making their home in LaCrete. WIELER-BRAUN; Isaac Wieler and Sandra Braun were manied at the LaCrete Christian Fellowship on November 1, 1986. Charles Koop of LaCrete. Alta, officiated. The couple is making their home in LaCrete. WIEBE-BRAUN; Isaac Wiebe and Martha Braun were married on September 20, 1986 at the LaCrete Christian Fellowship in LaCrete, Aka. Men no Hamm of LaCrete officiated. The couple is residing in LaCrete, Aka.
PAGE 9
1986 Messenger Index ARTICLES AND MESSAGES Looking Ahead, Joel Nederhood Jan. 10 Revenge is a Hazard to Your Health, Willard Kraybill Jan. 24 What Mean Ye by these Stones? Milton Reimer Feb. 7 A Hundredfold in This Life, Frances Fast Feb. 7 My Walk Through the Valley, Marilyn Dueck Feb. 21 The Home and Children, Howard Hendricks Mar. 7 Our Children’s Grandma, Kathryn McNeill Mar. 7 Walking in the Resurrection, Myron Augsburger Mar. 21 My Substitute, L. Marie Enns Mar. 21 Video in the Congregation, Glenn M. Lehman Apr. 4 Thanking God for MCC, Anna FunkApr. 18 Can Mennonite Christians Govern? Reg Toews May 2 A Tribute to Granny, Daniel KlassenMay 2 A Spiritual Tune-up, David Ewert May 16 Friendship, Helena Dueck May 16 What About Speaking in Tongues? Arden Thiessen May 30 How and When to Disagree, LaVerna Klippenstein May 30 What About Divine Healing? Arden Thiessen June 13 Redeemed, Wes Dueck June 13 What About the Power of Faith? Arden Thiessen June 27 Following Christ in a ‘Friendly’ WorldJuly 25 The Christian and Entertainment, John Koop Aug. 8 Why Christian Schools? Abe LeidingAug. 8 Faith on the Job, Oswald HoffmanAug. 22 Fulfilment Without Marriage? Mary Kroeker Aug. 22 The Great Commission, David Thiessen Sept. 5 Demonstration of the Gospel, David Thiessen Sept. 19 When God Delays His Answer, Bettie Kehler Sept. 19 Thanksgiving for a Many-sided Salvation, Terry Smith Oct. 3 Faith on the Campus, Stan Plett Oct. 3 The Missioners, the Laity, David Thiessen Oct. 17 To Love or Not: Eve^ Wife’s Choice, Karen Burton Mains Oct. 31 Are the Heathen Really Lost? Fred Friesen Nov. 14 Furlough Checkpoint, Doreen PetersNov. 28. God Hears Sign Language, Merlin Becker-Hoover Nov. 28 Christmas Reactions, John StoeszDec. 12 A Common Bond of Suffering, Wendy Magneson Dec. 12 Unselfish Love, Helen Toews Dec. 12 A StGiy of Hope Dec. 26 CHURCH NEWS (Selected) Morris: New Members Received Jan. 10 Morweena: Neighbours Visited Jan. 10 Endeavour: Christmas Programs Presented Jan. 10 Wymark: Baptismal Service Held Jan. 24 Riverton: New Members Accepted Jan. 24 Blumenort: New Pastor Installed Feb. 7
PAGE 10
Steinbach EFC: Parent/Child Dedication Held Feb. 7 Hudson Bay: Baptismal Service HeldFeb. 7 MacGregor: Report from South Africa Presented Feb. 7 La Crete: New Members Accepted Feb. 7 Fort Garry: New Members AcceptedFeb. 21 Rosenort: New Pastor Elected Mar. 7 Aberdeen: Anabaptist Themes StudiedMar. 7 Roseisle: Annual Meeting Held Mar. 7 Steinbach: Deacons Installed Mar. 21 Crestview: New Members AcceptedMar. 21 Creighton: Signs, Seminars, SingingApr. 4 Treesbank: Weekend with Missionaries Appreciated Apr. 4 Prairie Grove: Deacon Couple ElectedApr. 4 Stratton: Youth People Survive Planned Famine Apr. 4 Kleefeld: Young People Baptized Apr. 18 Kola: Deacon Couple Chosen Apr. 18 Pelly: Young People Baptized May 2 Saskatoon: New Bible Study Groups Started May 2 Birch River: Time to Move On May 2 Ridgewood: Second Minister Hired May 2 Calgary: New Members Accepted May 16 Landmark: Farewell and Commissioning Service Held May 16 Braeside: Cradle Roll Graduation HeldMay 30 Rosenort Fellowship: Growth in God’s Family May 30 Roseisle: Child Dedication Held May 30 Kola: Celebration of Strength and Christian Unity June 13 Pleasant Valley: Church DedicationJune 27 Rosenort: Baptism and Acceptance of Members June 27 Calgary: New Life July 11 Portage la Prairie: Deeper Life Meetings Held July 11 Fisher Branch: Sunday School Picnic July 11 Enjoyed July 11 Arden: Family Night Wind-up Hudson Bay: Kornelsens Honoured at July 25 Farewell July 25 Aberdeen: Church Retreat Held Burns Lake: Showing Christ in SportsJuly 25 Rosenort: New Pastor Installed July 25 Landmark: Torchbearers Enjoy Fishing Aug. 8 Trip Aug. 22 Mennville: Camp Well Attended Edmonton: Appreciation Dinner Held tor Aug. 22 Unraus Sept. 5 Braeside: Many Attend VBS Kola: Kola Hosts Third Region 4 Sept. 5 Conference Fisher Branch: Pastoral Couple Sept. 5 Installed High Level: First Church Camp HeldSept. 19 Swan River: Baptismal Service HeldSept. 19 Hudson Bay: New Pastor InstalledSept. 19 Crestview: Pastoral Couple InstalledOct. 3 Wymark: New Pastor Welcomed Oct. 3 Rosenort Fellowship: Youth Pastor Installed Oct. 3 Heron: 25th Anniversary Celebrated Oct. 3 Pansy: Rally Held for Children Oct. 3 Kleefeld: Cradle Roll Graduation HeldOct. 17 Steinbach EFC: Church Retreat HeldOct. 17 Vanderhoot: Preparing for Missionary Service Oct. 31 Landmark: Worthy Examples Oct. 31 Brandon: Chartering Service Held Nov. 14
Pelly: Missions Conference Nov. 28 Appreciated Mount Salem: Deacon Couples Nov. 28 Ordained Calgary: Fund Raised for Building Nov. 28 Project Nov. 28 Morris: Goals Set For Future Nov. 28 Braeside: Do We Care? Birch River: Revival Meetings HeldDec. 12 Dec. 12 Rosenort: Missions Highlighted
CHURCH PROFILES Pleasant Valley Aberdeen Pansy
June 27 Dec. 12 Dec. 26
CONVENTIONS AND CONFERENCES Jan. 10 Second EMC Orientation Held Feb. 7 Major Study Conference Planned Third EMC Christian Writers’ Feb. 21 Conference EMC Students Hear About Relief Efforts in Africa Feb. 21 The Christian in Public Education Mar. 7 Soviet Visitors Meet Delegates tApr. 18 May 2 Region 1 Leadership Conference May 2 Region 2 Sno Camp ’86 May 2 Manitoba MHS Presentation EMC Ministerial Discusses Divorce/ Remarriage May 16 1986 Annual Convention July 11 Annual Convention Ladies’ MeetingJuly 25 50-Year Celebration of Chaco Indian Sept. 19 Mission Oct. 17 Region 2 Regional Conference EMC Region 7 Celebrates Oct. 17 Oct. 31 Region 3 Annual Conference Oct. 31 AIMM Meets in Manitoba Penner Addresses Post-secondary Student Meeting Nov. 14 MEDA Convention Examines Faith and Excellence Nov. 28 Conference Council Meets in Pleasant Dec. 12 Valley
EDITORIALS Jan. 10 1986: What Does it Hold? Jan. 24 Good Works and Fruit Jan. 24 Affirmation: We All Need It February EMC Ministerial Meeting Feb. 7 Feb. 7 Frank H. Epp Feb. 7 Law and Grace Feb. 21 Farm Crisis Mar. 7 Children in the Congregation Mar. 21 Resurrection Joy Apr. 4 You and the Conference Apr. 18 What Next? Apr. 18 Farmers and Exports World Fellowship Sunday Set May 18Apr. 18 May 2 When Caring is Not Enough May 16 Pentecost May 16 Evangelism May 16 Revival May 30 The Free Lunch June 13 Annual Conventions June 27 He Halted Upon His Thigh July 25 Our Judea and Samaria Aug. 8 A New Teaching Tool Aug. 8 What is Your "Love-Quotient"? Aug. 22 Hope Sept. 5 Faith and Works Sept. 19 New Horizons Sept. 19 Sarasoda
THE MESSENGER
What are Our Priorities? Needed: A Cause EMC Regions: A Good Move Blessed are the Peacemakers Great Joy, do I have it? A Time for Faith One Hundred and Seventy-five Years Our Heritage - Important
Oct. 3 Oct. 17 Oct. 31 Nov. 14 Dec. 12 Nov. 28 Dec. 26 Dec. 26
IN TRANSIT .... for what we have left undone ... Jan. 24 Seven Hangings on a Swaziland Sabbath Apr. 4
LETTERS God Has a Purpose for Us, Jan. 10 B.P.D. Reimer Jan. 10 They Repented Not, S. Peters Church and State, George E. BraunJan. 24 Can You Help? Mrs. Violet Wright Feb. 7 The New Beatitudes, Ray Hill Feb. 7 Visited Missionaries, Glen SawatzkyFeb. 21 Truth, H.R. Reimer Mar. 21 Church and State, George Braun Mar. 21 Thanks for Reminding Us, Edwin Peters May 16 A Tribute to a Mother, Lena FriesenMay 16 The Lord Healed, Ben L. GiesbrechtJuly 11 Messenger Appreciated, Stanley Wiebe July 25 The Way It Really Was, Henry FriesenAug. 8 Changes Address, Rick Kroeker Aug. 22 Concerned, John L. Penner Sept. 5 Keep it up, Bruce! Henry Friesen Dec. 12 More Teaching Needed, Peter PennerDec. 12 Priorities, G.S. Koop Dec. 12 MISSIONS Mexico: Catherine Thiessen Jan. 10 Canada: Arlyn Enns Jan. 10 Paraguay: Abe and Justine GiesbrechtJan. 10 Brazil: Mary Doerksen Jan. 10 AIMM Jan. 10 AIMM Jan. 10 Paraguay Jan. 24 AIMM Jan. 24 Mexico: David Rascon Feb. 7 Saskatoon: Dave and Lydia Dueck Feb. 7 Paraguay: Harry and Tina Neufeld Feb. 7 AIMM Feb. 21 Mar. 7 Nicaragua: Lester Olfert SEMILLA Mar. 7 Mar. 21 Canada: Dave Dueck Canada: Mrs. Dora Friesen Mar. 21 Paraguay: Sarah Martens Mar. 21 Mar. 21 Paraguay: Luella Loewen Mar. 21 Nigeria: Elmer Warkentin Paraguay: Viola Giesbrecht Mar. 21 Mar. 21 Germany: Joanne Martens Brazil: Mary Doerksen Mar. 21 Spain: Evelyn Plett Apr. 4 Papua New Guinea: Lesley Fast Apr. 4 Apr. 4 AIMM Apr. 18 Keesee Koose: Winnifred Cote Apr. 18 RGBI: Ken and Vai Zacharias Apr. 18 RGBI: Landis Friesen Apr. 18 Germany: Laural Ann Plett Apr. 18 El Paso: Marvin Thiessen Apr. 18 Paraguay: Linda Penner Pakistan: Ellen Brell Apr. 18 Germany: Albert Martens May 2 Brazil: Abe Koop May 16 Sioux Valley: Dave and Helen PlettMay 16 AIMM May 16 Canada: Diedrich Friesen May 16
DECEMBER 26, 1986
RGBI: Mary Loewen May 30 Paraguay: Dave Schmidt May 30 Brazil: David Sharp May 30 Arizona: Grace Thiessen May 30 AIMM May 30 Nicaragua: Ernie Koop June 13 Venezuela: Tina Barkman June 13 AIMM June 13 Venezuela: Tina Barkman June 27 Pakistan: Ed Loewen July 11 Austria: Rosanne Poffenroth July 11 AIMM July 11 Mexico: Maria Koop July 11 Paraguay: Dietrich and Tina Lepp July 25 Mexico: Randall Krahn July 25 Venezuela: Tina Barkman July 25 Mexico: Elsa Bustillos Aug. 8 Mexico: Dora Friesen Aug. 8 AIMM Aug. 8 Pakistan: Ed and Joy Loewen Aug. 22 Kamsack: John Cosens Sept. 5 Nigeria: Elmer and Elvira WarkentinSept. 5 Spain: Evelyn Plett Sept. 19 Griswold Sept. 19 Papua New Guinea: Lesley and Marianne Sept. 19 Fast Oct. 3 Paraguay: Sara Loeppky Oct. 17 Nicaragua: Don Pleft Oct. 17 Belize: Helen Kornelsen Oct. 17 Nicaragua: Ernie Koop Mexico: Jake and Anita Letkeman Oct. 31 Oct. 31 El Paso: Doris Thiessen Oct. 31 Mexico: Eva Dyck Oct. 31 Paraguay: Betty Friesen Nov. 14 Germany: Edna Martens Nov. 14 RGBI: Bruce Derksen Nov. 14 Paraguay: Doris Friesen Nov. 14 Mexico: Louise Hiebert Nov. 28 Peru: Verna Doerksen Nov. 28 Peru: Evelyn Friesen Nov. 28 Germany: Gladwin Plett Quebec: John and Charity Schellenberg Dec. 12 Dec. 12 Germany: Mary Brandt Dec. 26 Bahamas: Al Thiessen Dec. 26 AIMM MISSIONARY DEPARTURES Les and Marianne Fast, Jan. 24 Papua New Guinea Aug. 22 Evelyn Friesen, Peru Jake and Anita Letkeman, Mexico Aug. 22
MCC Mediation Services Grow Jan. 10 MCC Canada Meets in Vancouver Feb. 10 Mennonite Disaster Service All-unit Meeting Feb. 21 New B.C. MCC Director AppointedMay 16 New MCC Building Completed Sept. 19 Oct. 17 Accepts New Assignment Nov. 28 MCC Manitoba Annual Meeting MUSICALLY SPEAKING A Chorus, Someone? Why Knock Rock? Non-Musical Benefits of Music OBITUARIES Peter L. Penner, Nov. 20, 1985 Henry Funk, Oct. 1, 1985 Dietrich Hildebrand Margaret Siemens, Dec. 23, 1985 Katharine Loewen, Jan. 3, 1986 Jacob J. Penner, Dec. 9, 1985 Abram A. Dueck
Oct. 31 Nov. 14 Nov. 28 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Feb. 7 Mar. 21
Margaretha Reimer, Mar. 11, 1986 Apr. 4 Mrs. Maria Reimer, Mar. 20, 1986 Apr. 4 Dave Schlamp, Mar. 4, 1986 Apr. 4 Jacob D. Reimer, May 4, 1986 May 30 Mary Kehler, May 26, 1986 June 13 Lydia Barkman, May 26, 1986 June 27 Margaretha Klassen, June 23, 1986July 25 Walter Davison, May 29, 1986 Aug. 8 Peter P.D. Reimer, July 5, 1986 Aug. 8 Peter Unger, Aug. 1, 1986 Oct. 3 Norman Penner, Sept. 1, 1986 Oct. 3 Agnes Peters, June 1, 1986 Oct. 31 Kathrina Heide, Oct. 9, 1986 Oct. 31 Elizabeth Brandt, Sept. 20, 1986 Oct. 31 David Thiessen, Oct. 27, 1986 Nov. 14 John K. Loewen, Oct. 2, 1986 Nov. 28 Mrs. Susanna Plett, Nov. 10, 1986 Dec. 12 Marilyn Plett, Nov. 9, 1986 Dec. 12
POEMS Love is Kind, Clint Taves Jan. 24 Mother’s Hands, Mrs. Irwin ThiessenMay 2 All Our Love With a Red, Red Rose, Mrs. Violet Wright May 2 No One Like Him, T.J. Hiebert June 27 Facing Life’s Circumstances, Jacob M. Fehr Aug. 22 A Son’s Farewell to His Mother, Submitted by Helen Loewen Sept. 19 Thanksgiving, L. Marie Enns Oct. 3 When Christmas Was Born, Eleanor Lee Gustaw Dec. 12 YOUTH IN TOUCH Evangelism, A Way of Life Jan. 24 “For Young Men Only” Jan. 24 You Know You’re Watching Too Much TV When ... Mar. 31 Relax or Accomplish? Apr. 18 Youth Retreat May 30 The Future June 27 EMC Youth Explosion July 25 What is Important? Aug. 22 The Lord Can Use You Sept. 19 A “Learning” Summer Sept. 19
Positions Open Eden Mental Health Centre is a fully ac credited facility which attracts staff seek ing to integrate their Christian faith and their career. Applications are invited for the following positions: 1 Registered Social Worker (HS 3-4). Ex perience in mental health, therapeutic skills, and mobility required; an ap preciation for Mennonite culture, and interest in women’s issues definite assets. 1 Registered Occupational Therapist. In terest in mental health and geriatrics essential.
Contact: Assistant Executive Director Eden Mental Health Centre Box 1300 Winkler, Manitoba ROG 2X0 Phone (204) 325-4325 Closing Date: January 9, 1987
PAGE 11
From the Editor One Hundred and Seventy-five Years 1987 will mark the 175th anniversary of our Con ference, which for about 140 years went by the name of Kleingemeinde (small church), but since around 1952 has carried the name Evangelical Mennonite Con ference. Membership, which to that point counted some 2000 members, today numbers more than 5600. The question which might come to some upon hearing this is, “Why bother about the past?” “Live for the present,” and so forth. True, we need to capitalize on present opportunities. But we dare not forget our roots, our heritage. The Old Testament makes much of events and places. (Read Psalm 78 and Joshua Ch. 4 as an example.) Peo ple suffered as they forgot their great heritage. The New Testament does not emphasize this as much, but we do see it play a role in the book of Acts when the apostles recall various prophecies. As we go into 1987 and learn to know more about our leaders and some of the events surrounding them. I’m sure we’ll gain a new appreciation and admiration for the past. And so plans are underway to mark this anniversary in several ways: 1) An EMC History Symposium: This already receiv ed brief mention in the December 12 Messenger. This symposium will consist of highlighting the lives of some of our leaders of former years, some quite recent, others from 100 years ago. 2) Historical Vignettes: These will be short historical sketches or events in our history. Anyone having access to this kind of material, please contact us. These vignet tes are to appear periodically through the year in the Conference paper. The Messenger. 3) The third thing to commemorate this is planned for the 1987 EMC annual convention to be held in Brandon, Man. in July. This will be in the form of short spots during the convention to 1) help capture im portant EMC events of the past 175 years, 2) create historical awareness, and 3) help celebrate our 175th anniversary.
Our Heritage - Important He that does not know his past, does not understand his present and has no direction for the future. Why bother about the past? We should concentrate on the present and the future! He who makes that statement forgets a very important dimension of the experiences of life. The present and PAGE 12
future are important and maybe should have priority in our life. However, I believe the statement at the head of this article is one we dare not take lightly. It is an insight which we ignore only to our hurt. Moses (Deut. 31) had received the announcement of his impending death and the possible backsliding of Israel after he would be gone. In view of this, God asked Moses to write a song which would confront them as a witness when evils and troubles would come upon them. Hereupon Moses wrote the song. Going on to chapter 32, verse 30, we find that Moses spoke the words of this song (I take it the song God ask ed him to write) until they were finished in the ears of all the assembly of Israel. These were all things which the people were taught by means of this vehicle - a song. It seems these means of recall for teaching were used by our Kleinegemeinde forebears in Russia when they wrote poetry (and they did!). We are indebted to Mr. Delbert Plett for recalling for us the part played by poetry in the Kleingemeinde of the 1800’s, some of it, at least, designed specifically to record aspects of their own history: “Poetry was used to memorialize the history of com munities. The poems of Heinrich Balzer stand as a leading example of poetry written to enshrine certain aspects of the history of the Kleingemeinde, such as the poem in honour of Aeltester Klaas Reimer” (Storm and Triumph by Delbert Plett, 1986, p. 54). In the New Testament as well we will find the word remember. It is there to remind us of some past impor tant event. Here are some: “Therefore remember that at one time you were Gen tiles in the flesh . . . you were at that time separated from Christ ...” (Eph. 2:11-12). ”... I have aroused your sincere mind by way of reminder that you should remember ...” (2 Peter 3:1). We, of course, are very Johnny-come-lately when it comes to our past. But those of us who are working with these concepts feel that it will be a profitable exercise to recall for our constituency something more than has already been published. We shall be enriched beyond our imagination if we will seek to enter in, in 1987, to some of the material which is to be presented on the subject of our common heritage. We will learn to see that our predecessors were not only a dark, somber group of people but men and women of flesh and blood with the same dreams, aspira tions and purposes which we have today. -D.S.
THE MESSENGER