The Messengers EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE
VOL. 25 NO. 22
NOV. 13/87
Unofficial estimates are that AIDS has to date killed 75,000 people around the world, including 657 in Canada and 22,548 in the United States. A majority of Americans and Canadians with AIDS are young men in their 20s and 30s.
What every Mennonite should know about AIDS Bernie Wiebe Tales from two cities. Recently, three young brothers, in Arcadia, Florida, were discovered to be carrying the AIDS virus. The school board wanted to ban them from school, but a judge ordered them admitted. Many parents in Arcadia boycotted their elementary school. Some made telephone threats to the family. Someone burned their house down. Finally the boys quit school and the family moved away. About two years ago, Mark Hoyle, age 13, was discovered to carry the AIDS virus in Swansea, Massachusetts. The school administration called a public meeting. Almost all parents attended. At first, most were hostile and demanded to know why there would even be a meeting. A threat was made to sue the superintendent. Medical people told parents that AIDS can be passed on through blood, through sexual intimacy, or through abusive use of needles and drugs. Each question was dealt with patiently. Mark Hoyle attended school, but died a year later--October, 1986-at age 14. Almost 1,000 came to the funeral. Even today, because of Mark, the community is closer. The Hoyle family still often finds fresh flowers at Mark’s grave. These tales from two cities illustrate the Great Divide that exists among people about AIDS. It shows the explosive poten tial for violence, prejudice and ostracism. And it portrays how a community can discover a legacy of love even in today’s most publicized and most dangerous health problem in the world. It is being said by many that AIDS is testing the fundamental fabric of our living in community. That obviously makes it also a keen issue for Christians. How do we cope with AIDS? What difference, if any, does it make that we are Anabaptist believers?
The Faces of AIDS. When western scientists first identified the AIDS virus in 1983, it was not immediately considered a
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great tragedy. Initial signs among us that 90 percent of the casualties occuned among male homosexuals or drug users (Newsweek, Aug. 10, 1987, p. 22) led many in our society to label AIDS as the “gay plague.” People saw it as the gay disease that would finally punish these moral perverts by killing them off--by themselves. It would never affect the general population. Signals from other parts of the world have disturbed and destroyed this initial western image. Richard Munochiveyi, epidemiologist in Zimbabwe, says, “It could be like the black plague in Europe. That killed millions” (Maclean’s, Aug. 31, 1987, p. 36). For reasons not clearly understood, in Africa and in the Carib bean, AIDS strikes roughly as many women as it does men. And the most
Since HIV can be transmit ted in blood, there is much fear of catching the virus through an accident. common population is heterosexual. The special 12-page photo gallery of 302 people struck down by AIDS (Newsweek, Aug. 10, 1987), probably was for many people, in the United States and in Canada, a first encompassing glimpse of how this epidemic is affecting our society. There we see men, women, and children, ranging in age from one year to 87--people from every walk of life. They are our people. Their mean age is 36--SO young that many feel their life has been snatched from them before it could begin. That special issue is Newsweek’s eighth cover feature on AIDS since 1983. It takes us past the statistics, beyond the epidemiological charts, right into the lives of those who have AIDS, those who are affected--families and friends, and those who carry the mysterious HIV virus. As we look into the eyes of those 302 peo ple, we cannot help but see the real faces
of AIDS. Their faces are our faces.
The Facts of AIDS. HIV (human im munodeficiency virus) was positively iden tified in 1983 as the virus that causes AIDS. This virus has an incubation period ranging from two to fifteen years. The World Health Organization (WHO), estimates that there are 10 million HIV carriers in the world (Maclean’s, Aug. 31, 1987, p. 31). Between 10-30 percent of these will develop to AIDS (Acquired Im mune Deficiency Syndrome). HIV kills in directly by weakening the body’s natural immunity to a variety of infections and malignancies. There is no known cure to stop the virus. Unofficial estimates are that AIDS has to date killed 75,000 people around the world, including 657 in Canada and 22,548 in the United States. A majority of Americans and Canadians with AIDS are young men in their 20s and 30s. People with AIDS (PWAs) will die. Time span between diagnosis and death has ranged from a few days to a few years; the average is 14 months. In addi tion to finding only a few drugs to date that slow the progress of AIDS, a recent report from the Los Alamos National Laboratory shows the HIV virus altering its genetic codes five times as fast as the in fluenza virus, which till now was thought to be the fastest in mutating. This laboratory holds specific genetic codes from 30 different AIDS viruses isolated to date (Winnipeg Free Press, Sept. 8, 1987). AIDS brings with it progressive weakness and disability, gradual loss of body-function control, severe weight loss, and, often, dementia as the virus attacks the central nervous system and brain cells. AIDS is contagious. The “A” in AIDS stands for “acquired.” People get it from other people basically in one of five ways: 1. Intimate sexual contact. 2. Con taminated blood products. 3. Con taminated needles (usually drug users). 4. Fetal transmission by parent. 5. Accidental blood absorption from PWAs. THE MESSENGER
The Fears of AIDS. There are at least three fear epidemics connected with AIDS. 1. Primitive fears. Robert Buck ingham, head of psychiatric emergency services at Toronto General Hospital, says many people who are knowledgeable about AIDS exhibit fear “that is out of proportion to the danger” (Maclean’s. Aug. 31, 1987, p. 32). Buckingham calls these “primitive fears,” related to the fact that since the great plagues of the Middle Ages none has so clearly been regarded as a “death sentence.” Also, says Buck ingham, people feel that somehow science and medicine has let them down by not being able to provide certainties about AIDS. The magnitude of the growing fear can be partially seen in the Gay Men’s Health Crisis AIDS hotline in New York City. A year ago they were getting 7,000 calls per month; now they field 14,000 calls per month (Winnipeg Free Press, Sept. 8, 1987). 2. Physical fears. Of the 166 nation members of the WHO, 143 countries have reported AIDS cases. Even in the USSR, AIDS or “SPID” is now written about dai ly. Business Week (Aug. 3, 1987, p. 14) predicts that AIDS will add $23 billion to United States health care costs over the next four years. AIDS is highly communicable. In one U.S. study of 25 couples where only one partner had AIDS, 14 of the uninfected partners caught the disease. A quarter of the diagnosed cases in the U.S. involve people who abused in travenous drugs. The possibility of passing on AIDS to newborn infants is one of the most tragic physical realities. In such cases the virus is transmitted from the mother to the fetus. 3. Emotional fears. To be PWAs often becomes a most traumatic emotional ex perience for those people and for their families. Of the people who get AIDS in the western world, the majority are homosexuals. Already marginalized and stigmatized in many communities, this added dimension almost guarantees social isolation. Candice Mossop, age 36, who is believ ed to have gotten the virus from con taminated blood used in transfusions, says her greatest source of bitterness, pain and anger is that friends and relatives avoid her. One nurse donned four pairs of gloves, a mask, and a gown, before ap proaching Mossop. In a survey of Winnipeg’s 250 dentists, only six said they would treat HIV positive patients. The families of people diagnosed to have AIDS, often find out in one string of shocks that these people are terminally ill, that they are gay, and that they may be passing the virus on to other loved ones. For the PWAs to admit their condition,
NOVEMBER 13, 1987
means to deal with life, death and loneliness all at once. Parents often cannot deal with this total scene. They may choose to face the illness and ignore the other implications.
People must be protected from the AIDS virus. The best protection is preven tion of contact. The Christian Care of AIDS. When AIDS is compounded upon gay people, the extra doses of stigma and chagrin expressed by the Christian community make it next to impossible for PWAs to accept pastoral care. Some church care givers are relieved at that, because they are too petrified to know how to show Christ’s care in this situation. To the homosexuals, a large portion of the church said “repent” and be changed. But what do we say to a doom ed PWA? Even in church-related institutions, some PWAs have had their food trays left in the hallways; staff were afraid to enter patient rooms. Treatment has been done with such a wide assortment of protective measures that the care givers in some cases seem more like robots than like people. When professional health care providers discuss AIDS, even some Christians have supported special quarantine measures, all kinds of mandatory testing schemes, and a right to refuse services. Scientifically there are to date not many hopes for care that will cure. A few drugs can slow the virus down. Some ex perimental testing on PWAs is now being done with several new drugs. But medical predictions are that a successful vaccine will yet take years to develop. So what can we as Christians do? And what must we do? 1. Work hard at prevention. People must be protected from the AIDS virus. The best protection is prevention of con tact. This means being careful about blood, about drug use, and about sexual activity. Effective blood tests are now in place. 2. Think about the meaning of Chris tianity. From the beginning, God has formed His People by calling them out upon mysterious journeys of faith. Abraham and Job and Hosea are three Old Testament examples. Then, just think about Jesus. Called to leave His Special Glory, to become one with us-sinful human beings on earth! Not only to live among us as a servant, but to give His life for sinners! Son of God to die for people with sins (PWS). And He died “outside the camp” like an unclean, curs ed person! Could it be that giving our lives for
PWAs would be in keeping with Jesus' giving His life for PWSs? Or, what does it mean when Paul says. “For there is no distinction; since all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:22b-23)? 3. Possible shape of ministry to AIDS (PWAs). The Bible deals in the same passage with a whole range of sin and sin ners (Romans 1:29-31). Anyone who is careless with any sin-sexual or otherwise-is in danger of generating hell on earth and ending up with eternal damnation. God's wish for all people and the number one purpose of calling forth a People of God is to forgive sins, create alternative constructive relationships, and to be a healing influence upon all the human hurts in the world. For people with AIDS, as well as for all hurting people, Christians must provide at least three things: i) Presence ■ a ministry where peo ple can see and feel that we are there; we are not trying to avoid anybody. It may well mean we need to begin with listening to the stories of PWAs. Once most (if not all) sinners begin to feel that we authen tically listen, they will speak to us of their needs and seek the help that we are find ing in Christ. This may be a ministry as crucial to families and friends of PWAs as to the AIDS people themselves. The PWAs will die; but their loved ones will linger. And it is probably true that the latter are the real “victims” of AIDS, ii) Touch - a ministry that says to PWAs that they are still peo ple. Like the lepers of the Bible, many people with AIDS feel themselves being treated as “unclean” and to be avoided at all costs. When Jesus ministered to peo ple, often we notice he “touched” them. A gift of “touch” is an enormous step toward coming together in Christ. Try it! iii) Word - a ministry of speaking the “words with power” (the Bible says “God spoke” and “there was”). Words without “power” become word storms that make a person feel as if someone is trying to drown him or get rid of him. “Words with power” draw you to their source. If our words are from God’s Spirit, PWAs too will be drawn to God’s Spirit. He is willing to save them just as He was willing to save you and me. In fact, as our words with power meet people who need to hear them, we will both feel the ongoing grace and mercy of God’s healing love for “the world.” Mennonites and Brethren in Christ chur ches emphasize the central significance of Christian community in our teaching and in our practice. AIDS will make us reveal whether this Word and Deed is meant to share the Good News of the Gospel with all people in the world. Which of the two tales from cities would be the tale of your community? What about your faith community? ■ PAGE 3
By Don Thiessen
Musically
peaking
“I’LL JUST RUN A COPY. ” Churches and schools are the worst offenders under the copyright laws. You just might be one of them. Since publishers and composers consider the copying of music as a violation of the eighth commandment we should be aware of what the law says and what we can do to avoid transgressing. In Canada the copyright law protects materials until 50 years after the writer's death. In the U.S. music is protected for 26 years and can be renewed for another 26 years. The law states that it is illegal to copy music -- this includes materials such as transparencies, chorus books, and copies for the pianist. What then shall we do? First, you should destroy all copied music in your own or the church’s file. It should not require a committee to decide whether or not to take this action; a church should not be in possession of materials obtained illegally. Second, stop copying. It requires a determined, deliberate deci sion to stop if one is accustomed to last minute copying on the
Letters SEND YOUR PASTOR!
We are 35,000 feet over southern Pakistan. We enjoyed 17 exciting days in that beautiful and hospitable country. Our hosts, Ed and Joy Loewen and Harold and Alfrieda Fast, did an excellent job of making our visit plea sant and profitable. We also enjoyed dinner with Arley, Janice and Julia Loewen last night. The trip was very meaningful. Our hosts allowed us to participate in their daily routines. Visiting in the mud hut of an Afghan freedom fighter and a morning in the doctor’s office were just two of many eye-openers. Henry was also able to help several TEAM offices with their accounting. (Thanks, Ellen Brell.) The breath-taking roads, fantastic scenery and interesting people will be relived as we view our many pictures. Why this letter? We want to encourage your readers, especially pastor couples, to visit our missionaries. Churches would do well to set aside funds each year so their pastors could travel periodically. A few reminders: If possible, learn to know the missionaries first. Get on their mailing lists. Write letters. Visit them during their furloughs. Support them financially (if applicable). Learn
church copier, or free copying at the sympathetic employer’s office. Third, plan ahead. Most of us are aware of our performing responsibilities to provide adequate time for ordering and pur chasing music. Choir directors should order music during the sum mer. Groups should always purchase at least two copies. Almost any item can be in your hand in a month when you order through your bookstore or music store. Fourth, budget for music purchases. Most churches have music committee budgets. These should be large enough to prevent the need for copying. An average church might need only $500-$ 1,000 per year. If there is a very active choir program this might not be sufficient. You can stretch the budget by utiliz ing the EMC choral library and exchanging with neighbouring choir directors. Fifth, ask for permission to copy. I have never been refused permission to arrange, record, or copy materials that cannot be purchased. The publishing company wants to sell - it is the only way they can survive. If you need a transparency, write. The company might charge you a fee, but it is unlikely that you will be refused. There are some exceptions to the rigidity of the law. Some copying can be done for educational purposes but never to per form or to avoid purchase. Second, you can copy if you have an order in for the music and it doesn’t arrive on time. When the music arrives, the copies must be destroyed. The facts can be distressing but we can’t flaunt the law to be a blessing.
about their country. Ask what time of year is best for your visit (climate, work-load. etc.). Perhaps they will plan to share their vacations with you. Don't forget to reimburse your share of expenses (although you may have to insist). Renew your missionary vision! Visit mis sionaries on their turf! You won’t regret it. Henri; and Nancy Friesen Virden. Man. WHICH IS IT?
The following is my response to the article written by Mr. Peter Thiessen (or should it be Friesen?) (Yes, it should read Friesen. Ed.) in the October 2 issue of The Messenger. Please publish it at your discretion. In his article entitled “Obedience” (October 2, 1987), Peter Friesen exhorts Christians to become more obedient to God’s Word. The comment that “each Christian has to respond personally to what God wants him to do” caught my eye. While 1 heartily agree with that statement, 1 disagree with Mr. Friesen’s in struction on how this comes about. The way we do what God wants us to do, he says, is to open our hearts to the inner still, small voice of the Holy Spirit. My question is this; Do we obey God’s Word by listening to a “still, small voice” or do we become obedient to God’s Word by studying it, interpreting its principles and then applying what the written Word says? By depending on the “still, small voice,”
are we not making obedience too subjective? Especially since Mr. Friesen is specifically talking about obeying God’s Word (i.e., the Bible), shouldn’t he be emphasizing confor mity to the actual written Word rather than to an “inner voice” which is hard to define in the first place? Mr. Friesen outlines many good points about obedience, but this article would have been more authoritative if he had left out this overused cliche and emphasized our responsibility to obey the written Word. Dave Siemens LaCrete. Alta. CONTRIBUTORS: Bernie Wiebe. 515 Portage Ave., Win nipeg. Man. R3B 2E9, is a teaching and research associate with the Mennonite Studies Centre at the University of Winnipeg. The ar ticle was commissioned by Meetinghouse. The profile on the Rosenort Fellowship Chapel gave me a good insight into another EMC church. 1 hope you enjoy it. Menno Hamm, our editor-designate, covered the Kleinegemeinde/EMC History Symposium. Elmer and Tina Barkman (Blumenort) are in charge of the New Tribes Mission guest home in Venezuela. Ed and Joy Loewen (Pleasant Valley) are serving in Pakistan, where Ed coordinates the evangelistic outreach of the Bach Christian Hospital. Cover: Rosenort Fellowship Chapel, Rosenort, Man.
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.
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THE MESSENGER
Kb- I
The Rosenort Fellowship Chapel seats around 350.
CHURCH PROFILE
Rosenort Fellowship Chapel By Dave Schellenberg
THE ROSENORT FELLOWSHIP Chapel is one of our newer EMC chur ches, established some 19 years ago. The first service was held on October 6, 1968. It was an outgrowth of the Rosenort EMC some two miles to the south, a country church. The Fellowship Chapel, on the
other hand, is located in the village of Rosenort. When in 1967 there was talk of enlarg ing the Rosenort EMC, a suggestion was made to rather build another church in the village. However, the idea of dividing the congregation was turned down. At
Stan Plett (pastor) and his wife Alma have served the church since 1980.
Marie and Rev. Peter J. B. Reimer are charter members at Rosenort Fellowship.
NOVEMBER 13, 1987
Jim Heinrichs (left), Sunday school superintendent at Rosenort Fellowship, and Orville Kehler (right) with money.
a separate subsequent meeting, a vote favoured the move. The move then was made in consultation with the EMC Ex ecutive and the Rosenort EMC. The church was established with 40 members. The first pastor, Melvin Dueck, was elected from a slate of three Rosenort E.M. Church ministers. The elderly minister, Mr. P.J.B. Reimer, offered to serve as an assistant without remuneration. For their first church building they pur chased a schoolhouse close to Rosenort and renovated it into a chapel. The congregation continued to grow. In 1970 sixty-three members are record ed. By 1975 there were 97 members. A new bungalow had to be added in 1974 to provide more rooms for Sunday school. Generally it is a younger congregation. The congregation embarked on a new church building project, which resulted in a new sanctuary being dedicated on May 30, 1976. Alfred Friesen was by this time the pastor, with Melvin Dueck the assis tant. The new building seats some 350 persons. Greetings and congratulatory words were given by all the sister chur ches in the area. The dedicatory message was given by EMC moderator, John Koop. Presently, due to lack of Sunday school room, a bungalow has been put up adjacent to the church, with an en trance from the church. Mr. Stan Plett, present pastor since 1980, says he would like to think of RFC as a community church, welcoming peo ple of whatever background. As a mat ter of fact, according to Stan, a minority (Cont’d next page) PAGE 5
Helen Reimer (second from right, back) teaches the mothers' class.
of their members have their roots in Rosenort Fellowship Chapel. Present membership of the chapel is around 175. Setting spiritual direction is a church council consisting of three elected members plus the pastor and two deacons as ex-officio members. Deacon couples are Alvin and Adina Kornelsen and Pete and Evelyn Friesen. The deacons are on three-year renewable terms. In addition to this, there is a threemember administrative board who looks after financial stewardship, maintenance, salaries, etc. As a part of Region 6, the church is also involved in regional activities, one of which is the new Low German radio program Goudi Noarecht aired on Mon-
day nights over CHSM and CFAM at 9:30 p.m. Stan is also chairman of the Region 6 ministerial. Although the village is surrounded by farmland, very few members of the con gregation are farmers. Many are con nected with business places, others are truck drivers or retired, etc. What does a week of activities at RFC look like? Why don’t we take the week of October 25-30? With variations I im agine it could be a typical week. Sunday night: Eventide service Monday: Christmas Sunday school program practice, ages 7-12 Tuesday: Junior young people’s hayride Wednesday: Awana; “Counselling by Encouragement” series; Young Couples
Now let me see, how was that again?
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Lots of activity at children's church at Rosenort Fellowship.
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Iy Orville Kehler makes sure people will see current attendance figures.
THE MESSENGER
Richard Zacharias teaches the Middle C Boys class at the Rosenort Fellowship Chapel.
Home Bible Study; Prayer and Bible Study at the church; Life of Christ Group meeting Thursday: Mr. P.J.B. Reimer’s service at Eventide Friday: College and Career Bible Study; Costume Social for young people. The church has a mid-week service but more and more Bible studies are being
The boys and girls in Primary A with their teacher, Elma Friesen.
held in homes. Baptismal instruction classes are held once or twice a year. Preaching is done mostly by Stan. Stan and his wife Alma have five children; two are married. They live in a newly-constructed bungalow right in Rosenort. Presently they have no missionaries. They have had in former years, though, when people like the C.F. Duecks, Stan
Audrey Brandt directs the Bible search in her Junior B girls class.
Pletts, Ian Wallaces, and Rick Kroekers, to name some, were out. Why don’t you make it a point sometime to visit this church? Sunday school begins at 9:45 and the church service at 10:50. If you receive the welcome I got, you will not regret it. Rosenort is located some 50 km. southwest of Win nipeg on Highway *205.
The Nursery class is under the capable direction of Angela Siemens.
Are you listening to “DE GOUDI NOARECHT” (The Good News)? A weekly 30-minute radio broadcast in Low German, with host and speaker. Rev. C.B. Loewen.
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Monday, 9:30 p.m. CHSM 1250 kc CFAM 950 kc Sponsored by Region 6 EMC Churches The Primary B class is taught by Holly Zacharias.
NOVEMBER 13, 1987
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Missions VENEZUELA
Serving Others - a Privilege Working as a Team How can running a guest home in the city be a part of reaching the tribal folks of this country with the Gospel? Of course, one needs to understand the situation and the isolated location of most of our missionaries in order to appreciate the value of a guest home or of other support ministries. Numerous reasons necessitate the missionary to leave his place of work in the jungle and make a trip to the city. Many needs can be met by writing the folks in the city or by call ing out by radio. If there was no one in the city, the missionary would have to leave his base every time he needed to replenish his food supply, renew his visa, and do other re quired, legal paper work. One needs to understand that some of our folks are living in areas that are accessible only by plane and boat or only by plane. A trip out means a lot of lost time away from learning the language or from translating the Word of God. It may also mean a lengthy absence from an intense Bible teaching series with the Indians. Sometimes, however, because of sickness or some other reason, the missionary needs to leave his station and come to the city. This is when it is nice to have a home away from home. The guest home is a place where the mis sionary can stay overnight or spend a couple of days. He does not have to run around looking for a place to eat because the hostess always has food ready to serve to hungry travellers. Of course, the guest home is not only open to our missionaries, but also to you visitors or relatives of our missionaries who come down to visit your friends or loved ones. We are here ready to pick you up at the air port and to make sure you get on the plane when you leave for the interior or when you go back home again. We would even invite you to come and spend a day or two at our home. Planes do not all come in at convenient hours. Sometimes it means going to the air port at midnight. When you get there you find that, due to unfortunate reasons, the flight has been delayed an hour or two. What do you do then? Wait at the airport or go home and sleep for a few minutes in between? For tunately, we are located very, very close to the airport. What do you do if you come and it hap pens that some or all of your luggage is ac cidentally put on the wrong plane, and you have reservations to go interior the following day? You would be welcome to stay with us
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a day or two until your luggage arrived, or you could leave the following morning and either Tina or 1 would check at the airport to see whether your belongings had arrived. We would then see to it that they would be sent interior to you. We would also reconfirm your reservations back to the USA or Canada. If you desired to go into the city, you could take a taxi or, if our schedule would allow, we would gladly take you and give you a brief tour of the capital city of Venezuela. If you are a new missionary coming to the field and are bringing in some of your belong ings air freight, we see to it that it comes through customs channels without problems. We see to it that it gets shipped within the country, whether by truck or by plane, wherever you want it shipped. If you are a missionary on this field and your visa is expired, you can send us your passport and we will be glad to take your passport into the office and get it renewed for you. If you need to travel in the country or abroad, you can send us the needed infor mation and we will be glad to make the pro per arrangements and purchase your tickets. These, plus other duties, keep us busy in the guest home. Are we having a part in reaching the lost for Christ? Would a hockey team be complete without a goalie? It certainly takes our work ing together as a team in order to get the job done. Our job is one of serving others. Then we remember that we are called upon in the Word to serve one another and to do it in love. We consider it a privilege to serve others and to have a small part in reaching those who have never heard of God’s love. Our prayer is that we might indeed do it with love and with joy, and thereby be an encouragement to those who are passing through our home. Elmer and Tina Barkman
PAKISTAN
“...Down with Christians’’ Reaching out with the Good News “Down with the Jews, down with Chris tians, long live Islam, God is great . . .,” roared the angry crowd in a small town visited recently by four evangelists from Bach Chris tian Hospital. Literature bags were forcibly snatched from the evangelists and gospel packets scattered on the Karakoram Highway, leading up to the China border. The zealots rudely shoved these Christian workers to the
Celebrating God’s Faithfulness 1962-1987 You are invited to attend a special celebration of the 25 years the Northern Fellowship congrega tion has had a chapel in Creighton. This event will be of special in terest to former members, the cur rent congregation and friends of NFC.
November 21, 8:00 p.m. 6:30 Supper (freewill offering) 8:00 p.m. “A Look Back” Pictures and slides Singing Message: Mel Koop Coffee to follow November 22, 11:00 a.m. “A Look Ahead” Special worship service Message: Mel Koop
Limited billeting available. Anniversary mugs for sale. Call or write: Pastor Terry Smith Box 35, Creighton, Sask. Tel.: (204)687-4689 or (204)687-6225 Plan to celebrate with us. (Send us your slides.)
office of the Assistant Commissioner. The doors of the office were quickly locked once the evangelists and their accusers were inside. The air was electric outside as the crowd awaited the decision of this powerful govern ment official. Inside the two fanatical religious leaders heatedly accused this group of break ing the law by selling books that would lead people away from Islam. After listening to both sides of the story, the AC warned the religious leaders not to take the law into their own hands and politely asked the four of us to leave town.
Selling literature in the bazaars of villages and towns around Bach Hospital is one (cont’d next page) THE MESSENGER
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method of getting God’s Word into the hands MISSIONS PERSONNEL NEEDS of literate Muslim men. We are thankful for the freedom of being able to reach out with Pastor: Anola Fellowship Chapel, the Good News in this Muslim land. Very few Anola, Man. distributions end with fanatical and violent op This is a half-time supported posi position like this. We frequently receive hostile tion. The incoming pastor is to com stares and critical questions. The typical ap plete his income by outside employ proach to shopkeepers goes like this: ment. The church is presently ad “I brought some special literature for you ministrated by the EMC Board of Mis this morning. You can have this whole packet sions. The need is immediate. Please of booklets for only one rupee.” contact Ben Friesen. “What kind of books are they?” “There is one gospel portion of the life of Church Planter: Lundar, Man. Jesus Christ and some other booklets on how The EMC Board of Missions is to find peace with God.” looking for personnel to found a “We have our own book, the Holy Koran, church in Lundar, Man. The need is that was given to our prophet. I don’t need immediate. Contact person: Ben these books.” Friesen. “But you Muslims pray that God will show you the right path. In the gospel God clearly Teacher: Mexico shows us the path of salvation.” A teacher is needed to instruct in He reluctantly takes the packet of literature. the German language in a Mennonite After peering into the plastic bag filled with village in Mexico. Contact person: tracts, he hands over a rupee (9b). Henry Klassen. Since I handed over the job of Maintenance/building and Administrator to Youth Worker: Germany two other missionaries recently assigned to A youth worker is needed for Ger Bach, I have been coordinating the many to assist Gladwin and Jean evangelistic outreach of the hospital. We have Plett in establishing a church in six part-time and three full-time evangelists in Braunschweig. Contact person: volved in various programs. Gospel messages Henry Klassen. are regularly presented in the out-patient clinic and the wards. This is followed by personal Write or call: contact with each patient and their many EMC Board of Missions relatives. Quite a few take literature home with Box 1268 them or read tracts off the tract racks Steinbach, Man. strategically placed in various parts of the ROA 2A0 hospital. We also show films and filmstrips to Telephone: (204)326-6401 in-patients. My staff and some of the medical personnel also visit interested ones and new leadership struggles that have hindered believers as part of a follow-up and the Zaire Mennonite Church. discipleship program. Other reasons for joy were the opporWe need your prayer support in this new tunities for the growing mission team in role. Pray for God’s encouragement and Burkina Faso as reported by Art Janz and the boldness and His preparation of hearts of lost expanding open doors among AfricanI men and women without the knowledge of Spiritual Churches in Southern Africa. John1 the truth. I' . . . . Larry . ........from and Tina Bohn from Lesotho, Hills Ed and Jo^i Loewen the Transkei, and Lynn and Kathleen Roth of Botswana represented the Southern Africa ministries. But the Board meetings were touched by grief as well. A time of prayer was held for AIMM Board Meets with Board member David Harder of Sterling, Kansas, who was hospitalized. He was Sorrow and Joy seriously injured the previous week in an auto Elkhart. IN (AIMM) — Winkler, Manitoba’s accident in which his 13-year-old son Joshua Mennonite churches hosted Africa Inter- had been killed and the other members of his Mennonite Mission’s Fall Board sessions, Oc- family hurt. tober 15-18. Sixteen missionaries joined the Many reflected, too, on the fruitful life of Board, staff and Women’s Auxiliary members former AIMM Board member, Frank C. for reporting, deliberations, budget adoption, Peters, whose ministry was suddenly ended praise and prayer. Three candidates were ap- by death, October 7. proved for missionary service. The uncertainties of life were underlined The apparent resolution of church ad- again when word was received Saturday midministration problems in Zaire was good news day that missionary appointee Tim Wier’s father,Ralph RalphWier, Wier,had hadbeen beenkilled killedininaafarm farm and a source of joy. Board and missionaries father, alike saw the changes in the CMZ administra- accident that morning in Lacon, Illinois. Just tion as encouraging signs for moving beyond the day before Tim and his wife Sandy had
NOVEMBER 13, 1987
been accepted for service in Zaire for the agricultural project at Nyanga. In addition to the appointment of the Wiers for Zaire, candidate Linda Cummings was ap proved for Burkina Faso. She will teach mis sionary children after her French language study. A difficult budget process resulted in adop ting a 1988 budget with no increase over 1987. Budget restraints were necessary since giving in several of the partner groups has not kept pace with rising costs or the decline of the dollar. The budget crunch was a factor in another action of the Board, the cutting of Executive level staff from three persons to two in AIMM's Elkhart office. The Coordinator of Com munications position will be discontinued as of June 1988. Robert Gerhart has served in this capacity since the role was begun in 1981. In other action Arthur Janz was reap pointed as Associate Executive Secretary for another three-year term. Leadership of the Women’s Auxiliary changed as Joyce Gerhart found it necessary to resign as WA Coordinator. Martini Janz was chosen as the next WA Coordinator. Ramona Klassen, Evangelical Mennonite Conference representative from Steinbach, was selected as WA Chairperson for 1988, replacing Elsie Flaming of Leamington, Ontario. In spite of difficult experiences, the joy of Christian service was evident during Board sessions in the missionaries’ testimonies. Several long-time workers reflected on changes they have seen over the years. Peter and Annie Falk and Mary Epp will retire at the completion of their current furloughs. The Falks, along with Peter and Gladys Buller, shared their hopes for the Zaire church from their perspective at the theological college in Kinshasa. Mary Epp closed out her career at the place of her first love, teaching Bible at the Bible Institute in Kalonda. AIMM persons scattered among area churches on Sunday morning. The Winkler congregations combined for a closing service Sunday evening in the Bergthaler Mennonite Church. Bob Gerhart’s ventriloquial puppet “Jed” helped introduce the program in which missionaries John Bohn and Peter and Annie Falk shared, Art Janz reported from his re cent administrative trip to Burkina Faso, and Executive Secretary Earl Roth explained AlMM’s team approach The multimedia presentation “There Is A River” was featured. George Hildebrand of Winkler chaired the host committee. Board sessions were held in the EMMC, Immanuel Mennonite, Grace Mennonite and Bergthaler Mennonite Church buildings. Five of AIMMs six partner conferences have congregations in Manitoba but for many of the participants it was their first visit to the Winkler community. community. Thanks Thanks to to the the warm warm Winkler hospitality of the host congregations, it will not be their last
PAGE 9
Messenger News MISSIONS
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Participants at the EMC History Symposium II were Arden Thiessen, Archie Penner, Dave Schellenberg, Edwin Plett and Royden Loewen.
EMC History Symposium II by Menno Hamm
An attentive audience gathered in the chapel of the Steinbach Bible College on Oc tober 30 for the EMC History Symposium II. This was a sequel to the first symposium held in March, which addressed the founding and development of the Kleinegemeinde to about 1920. The theme of the second symposium was “The Years of Transition,” covering the period from 1920 to the present. The session was chaired by Royden Loewen. Four papers were presented: Edwin Plett, pastor of the Prairie Rose EMC, spoke on Dispersion; Archie Penner. Professor of Theology at SBC, on Structure; Dave Schellenberg, editor of The Messenger, on Missions; and Arden Thiessen, pastor of the Steinbach EMC, on Theology. The evening also included two question periods and a cof fee intermission. It was sponsored by the Board of Education and Publication.
DISPERSION In speaking on Dispersion. Edwin Plett first recalled the movement to Winnipeg beginn ing in the late 40s. Farming had been con sidered the “ideal” Christian lifestyle in that it provided shielding from worldly influences. However, young ladies especially found the job and career opportunities in the city much more appealing and so a gradual drift to Win nipeg began. After several requests from the city residents, church services were begun in rented facilities in 1951, where attendance mushroomed from 6 to 100 within one year. Today there are four EMC churches in Win nipeg, with a combined membership of 486. In the mid-fifties, active colonization was encouraged; that is, groups of families,
PAGE 10
preferably including a minister and a teacher, would move to a new area where land was more readily available. Plett mentioned two motives: the need for more farmland and the opportunity to witness in the new com munities. Washow Bay (Mennville) and Kola, Manitoba were cited as two examples of col onization. The speaker also provided infor mation on the migration to Mexico (Quellenkolonie) and subsequently to British Honduras (Belize).
STRUCTURE Archie Penner introduced the subject of Structure by briefly explaining four systems of church government: papal, bishops, Presbyterian and congregational. The early Mennonite churches seem to have had three levels in their structure: Aeitester (elder or bishop), Diener (minister, later called Lehrer or teacher) and Gemeinde (congregation). Considerable authority was vested in the posi tion of Ae/tester. On the east side of the Red River the Kleinegemeinde consisted of four groups worshipping separately at Steinbach, Blumenort, Kleefeld and Prairie Rose. However, they were considered one con gregation and held joint brotherhood meetings under the leadership of one Aeitester. Mr. Penner traced the transition from the central authority of the elders to the relative independence of each district or congregation. A large step was taken in 1947 when the ministerial passed a motion authorizing any ordained minister to baptize. The transition was not without difficulty. Records of meetings hint at the differences of opinion held by the participants in the process.
Dave Schellenberg traced the development of Missions in the EMC. His findings were bas ed on research through records and documents available from this period. He noted several “steps” in the growth of a mis sions program. In the earliest phase there was some influence from Mennonite missionaries of other Conferences. In 1929 the Steinbach Sunday school sent a donation to a Mr. Bartel serving in China. Evangelization was on the agenda at the 1937 conference held in Meade, Kansas. Further awareness was fostered through occasional missionary letters in the Familienfreund, which began publica tion in 1935 under the editorship of David P. Reimer. In 1942 Susan Plett left for South America, becoming the first missionary from EMC ranks. Slie received neither official approval nor support from the church. Her letters helped to awaken a missionary vision. Other steps that Mr. Schellenberg mentioned were the influence of the Steinbach Bible Institute and its missionary conferences, the formation in 1946 of the Western Gospel Mission, under the presidency of Ben D. Reimer, within the EMC but not including all churches, and in dividual mission programs of several churches. An EMC Board of Missions was created in 1953 and in 1956 a decision was made to bring the mission programs of all EMC church es under the jurisdiction of the Board of Mis sions. In 1969 John K. Reimer was appointed the first Executive Secretary of the Board of Missions. The missions program has grown from 2 workers in 1953 to 154 in 1987.
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THEOLOGY Arden Thiessen’s paper was on the subject of Theology. His research was more difficult in that references to theological issues in minutes of meetings are very rare. However, transcripts of sermons from a number of former ministers were available. In reading a sizeable number of these, Thiessen sensed not a significant change in theology, but rather a change in emphasis. He selected three doc trines to illustrate the point: salvation, sanc tification and the church. Early messages generally consisted of a series of exhortations and admonitions where salvation is seen as a struggle unto the end, after which we enter into rest. Often sermons produced intense guilt, but offered little help. There seemed to be an absence of joy, confidence and assurance. In contrast, today sermons stress inner confor mation to the image of Christ by allowing the Holy Spirit to work in believers. The Chris tian life is portrayed more as a good life THE MESSENGER
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characterized by joy and fellowship. It was noted at the meeting that the speakers, as well as many in the audience, had either experienced much of this transi tion themselves or were closely related to those who had. The four speakers are to be commended for their generous efforts in research and presentation. We sensed that they identified with their subjects. It was evi dent that they had sifted through a great deal of material, and compiled a concise, infor mative set of papers for our benefit. For this the audience was appreciative.
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Symposium Papers Kleinegemeinde/EMC History Symposium I 1812-1920 (March 13-14, 1987) Papers: 1. Klaas Reimer (1770-1837) by Dr. Al Reimer 2. Abram Friesen (1782-1849) by Del Plett 3. Jacob M. Kroeker (1837-1913) by Menno Kroeker 4. Peter R. Dueck (1862-1919) by Royden Loewen
Kleinegemeinde/EMC History Symposium II 1920-1960 (October 30, 1987) Papers: 1. DISPERSION by Edwin Plett 2. STRUCTURE by Archie Penner 3. MISSIONS by Dave Schellenberg 4. THEOLOGY by Arden Thiessen All eight papers: $10.00 (plus $2.00 postage if mailed) One paper: $1.50 Order from EMC Board of Education and Publication Box 1268 Steinbach, Man. ROA 2A0 Telephone: (204) 326-6401
Left to right: Peter and Dolores Dyck, Agatha and Rick Enns.
DEACON COUPLES COMMISSIONED
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Roseisle, Man.: September 13 was an ex citing day for our congregation. This was the day we had set aside for our deacon commis sioning service. We had elected two couples as deacons on May 31, Peter and Dolores Dyck and Rick and Agatha Enns. I thought it would be appropriate to have them tell you what this event meant to them. They agreed and following are their comments. Peter and Dolores Dyck: “We were truly blessed and encouraged by the deacon commissioning service. It was a special, memorable event. The responsibilities and ex pectations of a deacon were made clear to us through Stan Plett’s message. We are accept ing this position in our church and doing it for the Lord, not for ourselves. We desire to do our best for the Lord as servant-leaders. We were encouraged by Wilbert Friesen and Dave Harms also taking part in the service. We want to thank family, friends and relatives who shared this special event with us. The Ladies’ Fellowship served a delicious lunch after the service. Thank you for your prayers and sup port, and continue to pray for us in our new field of service as deacons. ‘Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him’ (Col. 3:17).” Rick and Agatha Enns: “Our commis sioning as deacon couple was the most exNOVEMBER 13, 1987
citing step of faith and obedience next to ac cepting Jesus as Lord and Saviour. We ap preciate and are thankful to our congregation who has such confidence in us. At first the temptation to make excuses was very strong, but reading the account of God calling Moses in Exodus 3 and 4 showed us that excuses are not acceptable. After Moses had said, ‘But Lord,’ at least five times, chapter 4:14 says, ‘Then the anger of the Lord was kindled against Moses.’ We want to be found faithful in what God gives us to do and not make ex cuses when we’re asked to do something new or unexpected. ‘He who calls you is faithful and He will do it’ (2 Thess. 5:24). Christians are tools in the Master’s hands.”
PRAYER CELLS REACH OUT Landmark, Man.: Winds of love and concern were beginning to blow in the capital city of Manitoba. The effects reached out to neighbouring towns and villages. A giant pan
was initiated which caused even the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association to take note. Every home in Winnipeg was to receive a beautifully coloured, well-written book, Why Am / on This Earth? Pastor Edwin Plett approached the Missions Committee about whether “our friends and neighbours” should also be included in this movement. “The structure to implement this outreach is already in place,” he said. “Why not let the prayer cells buy the books and distribute them on the wings of prayer.” Yes, they were the ones who did it! Orders were placed and paid for by the beginning of May 1987 and maps were drawn up for deliveries. Each group got their allotment of books and these were then taken to about 190 homes. The blessings of God’s Word reached Land mark, the surrounding area (about a radius of three miles), and farther north beyond the Seine River Diversion. Besides that about 40 books went to He des Chenes.
The prayer cell groups of the Prairie Rose church gathered for a time of prayer in prepara tion for the distribution of the books, "Why Am I On This Earth?"
SUNDAY SCHOOL STAFF GETS TOGETHER Rosenort, Man.: On Saturday. September 12, the entire Sunday school staff and their families were invited to the home of the superintendent. Art Dueck, for a barbecue and social evening. It was a joy to be a part of this large gathering in the beautiful park like setting that is their backyard. The children’s delight was to try out the elaborate and sturdy playground equipment. Following the delicious meal, we formed two groups of teachers with an executive member leading a discussion on issues involved with Sunday school. Thank you. Art, Martha, and all of you executive members! Awana classes are in full swing in our area again, but have gotten off to a slow start in Woodlands, Luella Loewen arrived home from Paraguay on September 24, and Alvira Friesen left for Mexico on the 28th, following a short commissioning service in our church the previous day. Henry Klassen of Steinbach was our guest speaker that morning. At our September mission night, Stan and Marian Houghton reported on their work at Radio HCJB in Quito, Ecuador, with slides and word pictures. Thank you! The youth group had their annual hayride on September 29, and included a progressive supper. What better way to work up an ap petite! They all had a great time, including the leaders, Larry and Sandi, and Amos and Wendy. Our church family enjoyed a Thanksgiving supper and fellowship on October 12. Follow ing this, we viewed the film “Twice Given,” which deals with the true story of Tom and Pam Williams and their struggle with bacterial meningitis that had Mrs. Williams in a coma for months. Tom never gave up on her, though, and was rewarded in the end. The Golden Agers (including Eventide peo ple) held their annual Thanksgiving banquet on October 14, and they also viewed a film. The worship service on October 25 featured a youths’ singing group of six, with members from three of our local churches. However, the sermon by Frank Kroeker was geared more for older people, “Golden Age: Golden Days,” as seen in Titus 2:1-5 and 11:15. The evening service included special numbers by the Gospel Echoes, a children’s story by Wen dy and Amos Fehr, and slides and report by Menno Kroeker on his trip to South America on behalf of the MCC “Kanadier” work, October 27 was quilting day for the ladies. They made upwards of 15 blankets for MCC. On Thursday evening, the 29th, two young manieds’ Bible study groups went to Win nipeg to sing at the Union Gospel Mission, Larry Eidse was the speaker. Last, but not least, our EMC Region 6 Mis sions Conference is scheduled for November 13-15, with James Nikkei as guest speaker. The offerings for this event will be channelled towards our new Low German, half-hour radio program on CFAM/CHSM, which is
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STEINBACH BIBLE COLLEGE ACQUIRES NEW STATUS
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Steinbach Bible College has moved a step closer to receiving full accreditation by the American Association of Bible Colleges. College President Ben Eidse said the Associa tion granted the college candidate status Oc tober 29. The action was taken by the Association’s commission on accreditation which met in St. Louis, Missouri prior to its annual convention. Eidse and Academic Dean Jack Heppner represented the college before the Commission.
Ben Eidse.
The college received applicant status with the association in 1984. Since then it has carried out a study identifying areas of strengths and weaknesses. It is expected full accreditation will not be reached for another two or three years. However, the new status will already make it easier for students to transfer credits to other colleges and universities. planned to begin on November 2. Cornie Loewen will be the speaker for “De Goudi Noarecht” (The Good News).
Births LETKEMAN-HOLST ■ to Don and Marlene Letkeman-Holst of Winnipeg. Man., a daughter, Katura Marie, on September 30. 1987. REMPEL - to Peter and Marlene Rempel of Win nipeg. Man., a son. Jonathon Henry, on October 9. 1987. REIMER • to Wayne and Marilyn Reimer of Birch River. Man., a son, Nathan Derek, on September 30. 1987. LECNIK - to Josip and Lynn Lccnik of Winnipeg. Man., a son. Jonathan Arthur, on September 26. 1987. BUHLER - to Alan and Janet Buhler of Winnipeg, Man., a chosen son. Theodore Joash, born on November 7, 1984, received for adoption on May 11. 1987. PLETT — to Randy and Twyla Plett of Landmark. Man., a daughter. Alexandria Denae, on October 10, 1987. GIESBRECHT — to Brian and Sylvia Giesbrecht of Landmark. Man., a son, Adam Jakob, on July 14, 1987. REIMER — to Douglas and Angie Reimer of Land mark, Man., a daughter, Lindsay Sharayah, on September 13. 1987. PLETT — to Steve and Delores Plett of Landmark. Man., a son, Michael Devon, on September 10. 1987. VEENHUIS — to Hank and Eunice Veenhuis of Upper Stewiacke, Nova Scotia, a son, Tyler William, on July 16, 1987. REIMER — to Pete and Kathy Reimer of Riverton. Man., a daughter, Karen Beverly Anne, on October 19, 1987. FEHR — to George and Edith Fehr of LaCrete, Alta., a daughter, Melanie Elizabeth, on October 19, 1987. SCHMIDT — to Isaac and Trudy Schmidt of LaCrete, Alta., a daughter, Sara Lynn, on October 16, 1987.
FAST — to Lesley and Marianne Fast of Ukarumpa, Papua New Guinea, a son, Hans Peter, on Oc tober 9, 1987. DYCK — to Gordon and Marlylles Dyck of Stein bach. Man., a son, Michael Jordan, on October 31, 1987.
Weddings FROESE - FEHR: Aron, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob A. Froese of LaCrete, Alta., and Margaret, daughter of Mrs. Susan Fehr of LaCrete, were mar ried on October 11, 1987. The wedding took place at the LaCrete Christian Fellowship, with Charles Koop officiating. The couple is making their home in High Level, Alta. PETERS - GIESBRECHT: Randy, son of Neil and Elma Peters of Ste. Anne, Man., was married on October 10, 1987 to Jo-Anne, daughter of Ernest and Hilda Giesbrecht of Steinbach, Man. The wed ding took place at the Steinbach E M. Church, with Jim Harms of Steinbach officiating. The couple is residing in Mitchell, Man. HAMM - REIMER: Gerald, son of Menno and Elvina Hamm of La Crete, Alta., and Esther, daughter of Abram and Margaret Reimer, were married on July 11, 1987. The wedding took place at the North Kildonan M.B. Church in Winnipeg, with Stan Hamm of Ridgewood, Man. officiating. The couple is making their home in Winnipeg. JANZEN-BRANDT: Peter Janzen of Killarney, Man. was married on June 14. 1987 to Lena Brandt of Winnipeg. Man.. daughter of Mrs. Tena Brandt of Morris. Man. The wedding took place at the Fort Garry M.B. Church in Winnipeg, with Dan Unrau of Winnipeg officiating. The couple is mak ing their home in Killarney. ESAU-HILDEBRANDT: Lome, son of John and Lena Esau of Winnipeg, Man., and Shannon, daughter of Ernie and Cathy Hildebrandt of Win nipeg, Man,, were married at the Crestview Church in Winnipeg on October 17, 1987, Jake Froese of Winnipeg officiated. The couple is making their home in Winnipeg.
THE MESSENGER
Schellenberg (Steinbach), Martha Schellenberg (Kleefeld), Linda Tremere and Elma Wiebe (both of Coaldale, Alberta); two sisters-in-law, Mabel Reimer (Steinbach) and Susie Reimer (Winnipeg), one brother-in-law, Peter Loewen and wife Tina (Steinbach). Mother was predeceased by her parents; one son-in-law, Carl Mills; one grand daughter, Bonnie Kroeker; two brothers. Cor ny and Ben; and one sister, Mary. The family would like to express their ap preciation for the care given to our mother by the Resthaven staff, as well as Dr. Peters and the second floor nursing staff at the Bethesda Hospital. The Famil^i
MARGARET KROEKER 1906-1987 “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them. ” Margaret Kroeker was born on March 19, 1906 to Mr. and Mrs. Isaac W. Reimer of Steinbach, Manitoba, and died on November 6, 1987 at the Bethesda Hospital in Steinbach. She was baptized on September 30, 1923. and on November 9, 1924 was married to Frank D. Kroeker. They made their home in the Steinbach area, where they farmed, and also lived in the Prairie Rose area for some time. Mother was a caring, sensitive person. She was sociable and enjoyed travelling. She did a lot of handwork (smocking, knitting and sewing), even though she never had any sew ing lessons. The children remember her as a good cook, especially when they think of her buns and chocolate cake. Mother was also ac tive in church sewing circles, although she did not always enjoy the best of health. Our parents moved off the farm and into the Cedarwood Apartments in Steinbach in 1973. By 1977 Mother had to be admitted to the Resthaven Nursing Home. In 1983 Father too entered the Resthaven. When the new Resthaven was opened they moved in there and had rooms side by side. As a result of a stroke suffered in March, she was admitted to the hospital for the se cond time on October 11, where she passed away on November 6. Left to cherish her memory are her hus band Frank in the Resthaven Nursing Home in Steinbach; two sons, Clarence and Agnes (Steinbach), Albert and Tina (Steinbach); two daughters, Elda Mills (Winnipeg) and Shirley and Pete Rempel (Steinbach); twelve grand children and thirteen great-grandchildren; four brothers. Bill Reimer (Steinbach), John Reimer (Kleefeld), Ed Reimer (Winnipeg), and Levi Reimer (Edmonton); six sisters, Esther Kroeker (Hillsboro, Kansas), Kay Jones (Hesperia, California), Helen NOVEMBER 13, 1987
You are my fortress. My loving God. I will praise you forever For what you have done! 1 will sing praises to your name, O Lord, my Rock, and my Redeemer. Bettie Kehler Box 1588 Steinbach, Man. Based on actual words from Psalms (RSV)
Peace Peace of heart Can it ever be? How my mind longs to be free
GOD: OUR REFUGE (Some selected portions as found in the Psalms)
Hear my cry for mercy As I call to you for help. My thoughts trouble me And I am distraught. I call — as my heart grows faint. Lead me to the Rock That is higher than 1.
My heart is in anguish, Fear and trembling beset me. Horror has overwhelmed me. O, that 1 had wings of a dove I would fly far away — Far from the tempest and storm. Evening, morning and noon I cry out in distress, Do not forsake me When my strength is gone; Till I declare your power To the next generation.
Don’t ignore my plea. Hear me and answer me. The cords of death entangle me, The anguish of the grave — What can mortal man do to me? On my bed 1 remember you; Through the watches of the night I think of you; Let the morning bring me word Of your unfailing love. For your name’s sake Preserve my life. Who is like you, O Lord? You have done great things; You saw my affliction. You knew the anguish Of my soul; You heard my cry. You lifted me up By your love.
Peace of mind Will it ever be? How my soul longs to be free Peace with others Can it ever be? How my heart longs to be Free!
“My peace I give you” Can it be? How my soul longed to be Free! Having been justified by faith we have Peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ! -D, Nadeau Swan River, Man,
“SON OF THE HIGHEST’’ Christmas Musical Drama Crestview Fellowship 271 Hamilton, Winnipeg, Man. December 4, 7:30 p.m. December 5, 7:30 p.m. Featuring:
•Senior choir •Junior choir •Instrumental •Drama Also at Austin EMMC on December 12, 7:30 p.m., and at Winkler EMMC on December 13, 7:00 p.m. Freewill offering will be taken. PAGE 13
Around
World NAME CHANGE FOR EMB Delegates of the Evangelical Mennonite Brethren Conference held their 93rd Annual Convention July 15-19, 1987 in Steinbach Manitoba, Canada. The delegates voted to adopt a new name, FELLOWSHtP OF EVANGELICAL BIBLE CHURCHES. The Fellowship of Evangelical Bible Chur ches, founded in 1889, has 36 churches in Canada, the United States and South America. This new name was chosen to reflect the organization's commitment to inerrant Scrip ture as the guide for faith and practice, a strong evangelical emphasis and local church autonomy in a larger fellowship. Rev. Lyle Wahl, pastor of the St. Vital Com munity Church, Winnipeg, Manitoba, was elected as president of the Fellowship. RON SIDER AND ERNIE REGEHR TO ADDRESS WINNIPEG CHURCHES ON PEACEMAKING
Ron Sider, director of Evangelicals for Social Action, author of Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger and Nuciear Hoiocaust and Christian Hope, and originator of the “Chris tian Peacemaker Team” concept, will address the 1987 Festival of Peace. Mr. Sider will give his keynote address. New Avenues of Peacemaking in a Dangerous World, on Fri day, November 20 - 7:30 p.m. at First Mennonite Church, 922 Notre Dame Ave., Winnipeg. Ernie Regehr is research director of Pro ject Ploughshares, author of Canada and the Nuciear Arms Race and Arms Canada: the Deadiy Business of Miiitary Exports, and an expert on the Canadian arms industry. Mr. Regehr will give a second keynote address at the 1987 Festival of Peace, Saturday, November 21 - 9:00 a.m., also at First Mennonite Church. Mr. Regehr will address issues of Canadian defence policy (especially as outlined in the recent Defence White Paper), and the state of Canada's military in dustry and export of weapons. GRAIN DRIVE EXPECTED TO RAISE 15,000 MT WHEAT FOR ETHIOPIA
According to Executive Director Bert Loewen, this year’s drive, entitled “Project Africa,” is expected to garner about 15,000 tonnes (over'/? million bushels) of wheat for Ethiopia, which is on the verge of another food crisis. If all goes as planned, Loewen said, the wheat will move through the St. Lawrence Seaway before freeze-up in December. ARRESTS The pre-trial hearing for the 370 who were arrested on Aug. 9 for blocking the entrances to the Rocky Flats Weapons Facility near Denver will be held on Nov. 20. Three Mennoniles-Marilyn Miller, pastor of the Boulder (Colo.) Mennonite Church, and Bob and Dianne Carlsten, Arvada (Colo.) Mennonite Church - were among those arrested on Aug. 9. “Our intention is to pul Rockwell and the Department of Energy on trial on Nov. 20,” said John Chanin, staff member of the two organizations which sponsored the Aug. 9 protest, in a phone interview from Boulder. (GCNS)
CHURCHES SPROUTING AMONG REMOTE INDIANS OF MEXICO
In the mountains some 200 miles north of Mex ico City, something bordering on a “people move ment” is taking place among various Indian groups, according to representatives of the Associated Reformed Presbyterian Church World Witness. The fruit of more than 10 years of mis-
PAGE 14
Wanted The Steinbach Bible College Board of Directors invites applications for the position of Director of Develop ment. Responsibilities include public relations, student recruitment and fundraising. The successful applicant must be highly motivated and possess good communication and organiza tional skills. Duties commence August 1, 1988. Applications will be processed after January 15, 1988. Application and resume should be sent to Ben Eidse, SBC, Box 1420, Steinbach, MB, ROA 2A0.
Ministers’ Study Fund WE WOULD like to give you another opportunity to enroll in the Macedo nian Corps project to assist EMC ministers, missionaries and seminary students to further their education (see Messenger, September 18, for details). Simply fill in the coupon below and send to the address given on the form. Thank you for your response. “For they gave according to their means
. and beyond their means . .
(2 Cor.
8:3).
MACEDONIAN CORPS MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
As God enables, I will give $25, $50, or $ (please circle amount) per year for five years to the EMC Ministers’ Study Fund. Enclosed find $ I am making a one-time donation. Enclosed find $ Please make check payable to Evangelical Mennonite Conference. Send to: Macedonian Corps Box 1268 Steinbach, Man. ROA 2A0
Signature Hundreds of prairie farmers this fall will be trucking some of this year’s harvest to specially designated grain elevators for ship ment to hungry people in the Third World. They will be participating in the 1987 grain drive of the Canadian Foodgrains Bank, a Winnipeg-based inter-church agency which forwards food aid to relief and food-for-work development projects around the world.
sionary labor has suddenly mushroomed into 46 official churches, with expectations of at least a dozen more before the end of the year. Response to the ministry of both lay and train ed Christians has been strongest among the Huastecan and the Aztec Indians, two of five groups living in the area. Still, says Neal Mathias, candidate secretary for the ARPCWW, there is much to be done. The single missionary couple working there reports that only 200 of the 1200 villages have been reached with the gospel. Some 250,000 Indians live in the area. One of the five Indian groups is completely unreached. (MNS)
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THE MESSENGER
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After supper Lil and I dropped in at Dave and Sharon Siemens, the new youth pastoral couple. Dave has roots in Kola and Sharon in Edmonton. They are grads of Peace River Bible Institute.
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GOD’S WORK is bigger than any local church, town or province, and the methods He employs are as diverse as the people who serve. Yet it is God’s work and it is moving forward. Lil and I were indelibly impressed with that thought as we visited our Conference churches and friends in western Canada. Let me retrace our trip for your information and encouragement. Wednesday, October 14 The weather was ideal for the drive to Saskatoon. Lil had packed some sandwiches and we picnicked enroute in a road side park. Peter and Kathy Friesen, the pastoral couple, welcomed us with the aroma of a delicious supper. In addition to the discus sion on church development, discipleship and evangelism, we took time to enjoy a table game, including Jonathan (Friesens’ son) and another friend. Approximately 60 people at tend our Saskatoon church.
Thursday, October 15 We enjoyed a delicious meal with Dave and Lydia Dueck at a local restaurant. They both praise God for restored health. Dave con tinues to spend a significant amount of time behind bars at the Correction Center but he says that he enjoys it (chaplaincy). In the afternoon we had coffee and fellowship with Gary and Debbie Sawatzky in North Battleford (formerly pastor of Endeavour). They were in the process of renovating their home to provide care for Gary’s invalid mother. Lil’s brother and his wife, Clarence and Doris Reimer in Lloydminster, welcomed us for supper and night.
Friday, October 16 A long day’s drive took us to High Level in northern Alberta, a mere two hours short of the Northwest Territories. Peter and Trudy Dueck, who hail from Morweena, in Manitoba’s Interlake area, greeted us warmly. God is using them and the people of their church to reach many new people. Sunday morning attendance has hit 100 and they are in real need of larger facilities. Saturday, October 17 We joined the church board and their spouses for breakfast, sharing friendship, news from the churches and the Conference at large. In the afternoon, it was on to La Crete to see Charles and Lonaine Koop. Their daughter Heidi had made a large welcome poster and hung it on the wall, adjacent to what was to be our room for the next two nights.
NOVEMBER 13, 1987
Sunday, October 18 Recently the La Crete church completed a new sanctuary with a seating capacity of 425. If the present congregation of 325 ■+■ continues its rapid growth, it will soon fill the new sanctuary. It was a joy to share the Word in the morn ing service as well as at the installation ser vice for the Siemens held that afternoon. This was followed by a potluck Thanksgiving sup per. In the evening we went to Ben and Bet ty Thiessen’s home for a brief visit. Ben is a local school teacher and also serves as chair man of the church board.
Monday, October 19 We went out for breakfast with Charles and Lorraine Koop, Dave and Sharon Siemens, and Sharon’s parents, who had come up from Edmonton for the occasion. Fellowship had been good, but it was time to leave the “Peace” country and head for B.C. The fall foliage was still beautiful as we wound our way through the Pine Pass. The city lights of Prince George were a welcome sight, marking the end of another day of travel. Tuesday, October 20 Lil and I enjoyed a leisurely breakfast in our motel restaurant. The morning also provid ed some preparation time for later events on the trip. Then we continued on to Burns Lake and the Leidings. The church has almost com pleted construction of a full-sized gym and classroom building, which will provide firstclass facilities for their Christian Day School. We met with the church board and their spouses (16) for supper and an evening of sharing, prayer and reporting on sister churches. Wednesday, October 21 1 joined the staff and students of the Chris tian Day School for their weekly chapel. At present there are 49 students, plus staff and “monitors.” Once again it was time to say “aufwiedersehn” to friends here and move on to Vanderhoof. LeRoy and Marcella Barkman opened their doors of hospitality and we felt right at home. In the evening we attended their regular church Bible study and again shared from the Word, as well as Conference news and church updates.
Thursday, October 22 Lil and Marcella enjoyed the morning together while LeRoy and I toured the area, conversing about their ministry, other chur ches in the area, etc. The weather continued to be sunny and mild as we headed towards Jasper for night.
Friday, October 23 On the way to Banff we stopped to admire several large herds of elk which had come into the valley to feed. Majestic! We spent a day in Banff hiking and stroll ing through the numerous souvenir shops, resting and preparing a sermon for Sunday. Saturday, October 24 On the way to Calgary we stopped briefly at Canmore to look at the Olympic cross country skiing facilities. The next stop was Calgary, the host city of the 1988 Winter Olympics, but more impor tantly, the site of a growing EMC church. After supper with Dave and Merna Thiessen, the pastoral couple, we took a quick tour of their new church building which is under construction. The building has been designed to accom modate expansion as the congregation grows. Excellent! The evening saw us joining the board members and their spouses for bowling, shar ing and Conference news. Sunday, October 25 It was our privilege to worship with the Forest Grove church in Calgary. The people were responsive and the fellowship was enriching. The body of Christ is growing. John and Elda Enns hosted us for Sunday dinner. It was good to renew our friendships. For night we travelled to Nobleford where we stayed with Lil’s brother and sister-in-law, Elvin and Tina Reimer. Monday, October 26 The longing to get home intensified as we headed east, but we put that aside as we turned into Swift Current and shared our friendship with John and Tina Toews. They are looking forward to leading a tour group to Israel in November. In the evening I met with their pastoral search committee re youth pastor and pastor. Abe and Kathy Bergen, youth pastor at Wymark, accommodated us for night. Tuesday, October 27 We spent the morning and lunch time with John and Leona Kornelsen. They left Hud son Bay just over a year ago to assume pastoral leadership in Wymark. At the request of our Conference Ministerial Examination Committee, John Toews and I interviewed one of the local deacon couples re acceptance into the Conference ministerial. In the evening we visited Alvin Doerksen in Regina. Due to illness, he has had to leave his work at the TEAM office and is presently basically staying at home. Wednesday, October 28 One last stop — Kola! Though it was a poor time to meet, 1 was able to meet with several members of the local church pastoral search committee. Home! After fifteen days and 6500 kms, it was good to be greeted by our family at home. Praise the Lord for the many answers to specific requests, as well as the unexpected blessings along the way! PAGE 15
From the Editor Praise, a Worthwhile Sacrifice >1
DO YOU EVER find that a snatch of a song lodges itself in your mind and, like a broken record, keeps repeating itself over and over in your mind? The one that has attached itself to me and won’t let go is one that I learned not long ago: “Praise the Lord anyhow.” The song lists a variety of frustrating situations, but always concludes with the exhortation to “praise the Lord anyhow!” Why is it that grumbling and complaining come so easily and naturally, while praising and rejoicing require so much conscious effort and determination? Perhaps that is why the writer to the Hebrews equates praising God with the offering of a sacrifice (13:15). It would seem logical that the better off we are, that the more we prosper, the greater and more sustained our praise would be. Unfortunately, in real life praise is rarely in direct pro portion to prosperity. Often the sweetest praise is en countered in the context of suffering and adversity. Recently 1 have been studying in the book of Isaiah. The prophet delivers one warning of God’s impending wrath and judgement after another. How refreshing it is, in the midst of all the doom and gloom, to come to chapter 12 with its opening statement, “In that day you will say, ‘1 will praise you, O Lord. Although you were angry with me, your anger has turned away and you have comforted me’ ” (NIV). In one of his messages at the Region 3 Conference, Bill Jackson reminded us of Habakkuk’s mindset, “Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord. 1 will be joyful in God my Saviour” (3:17,18, NIV). This comes rather close to many of our dear former friends suffering from depressed prices of their produce, businessmen coping with a reduc tion in sales, or others faced with the spectre of unemployment. Is it really possible to praise God in such circumstances? Is God cruel, betraying our trust in Him? Or is He unconcerned, ignoring our pleas and prayers? Recall with me the experience Paul and Silas had at Philippi. Going to Philippi hadn’t been their idea in the first place and here they were chained in the dungeon, their backs raw from a merciless beating. If anyone had reason PAGE 16
to complain, they did. If anyone had reason to doubt God’s leading, they did. If anyone had reason to ques tion God’s love, they did. Their reaction in this crisis? “And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them” (Acts 16:31). On our way to Steinbach from La Crete just over a month ago, we stopped in Edmonton, and while there we went to see our dear friend, Peter D. Peters, at the University Hospital. He had just recovered from surgery in which an unusually large tumour was removed from his brain and he was to undergo a five-week series of radiation therapy. We wondered what we might say to cheer him up. Well, Peter’s trust in the Lord was so secure and his praise so free that we were the ones who came away cheered up. What a testimony to those out side of Christ! “How He longs to put a new song into their mouths: a hymn of praise to God” (Psalm 40:3). Just this past summer we as a Conference passed through a financial crisis. It had never happened before so we were caught unprepared. Alternatives were weigh ed and it was decided to inform the members of the need. What would the response be? The response is a cause for rejoicing. Month by month donations are com ing in, and all salaries and bills are paid on time. Praise the Lord! Needless to say, there is still a need to be cautious, but the pall of apprehension has lifted. The missions program can be maintained. Though painful, the experience has been good for all of us. We will be more careful so that the future may be a brighter one. Who knows, perhaps the Board of Missions will have the courage to process one or two more missionary can didates to fill desperate needs on the fields. Would you join me in a session of praise? If you find it hard to begin, try paging through a hymnal . . . Praise God from whom all blessings flow , . . Praise, my soul, the King of heaven . . . Holy God, we praise Thy name! . . . Jesus, thou joy of loving hearts . . . It always helps me; I hope it helps you too. “Praise the Lord anyhow!”
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M.H. THE MESSENGER