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Th© Messenger EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE

Promise of Spring

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he hazy air is hanging low. The trees are bare. Gone is the show They staged a few short weeks ago. Quite soon the chilly wind will blow And bring again the winter’s snow.

Where lately glowed a bright display. Mope listless shades of brown and gray. Where grass and flowers sprang in May, Now all’s beginning to decay And winter’s chill is on the way.

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NOV. 27/87

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VOL. 25 NO. 23

Now lies the snow on field and hill, The frosty air is deathly still, The ice has choked the brooklet’s trill. Nature’s succumbed to frost and chill No sign of life, look where you will.

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But we have promise of the spring When warmth again the sun will bring And bid all nature, “Wake and sing!” Then grass and flowers with new life spring And joy returns to everything!

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Just so, our lives are short as grass. We bloom and fade, and quickly pass From life to silent death. Alas! But nothing shall our joy surpass When resurrection comes to pass!

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For Jesus died to set us free From sin and death’s dark tyranny. He rose again, and so shall we! With Him we shall victorious be And ever live abundantly!

L. Marie Enns <}«'

Our Wealth In Christ Ephesians 1:15-32 by John Hiebert

Are you looking for wealth that you already have? Paul voices his concern to the Ephesian Christians in the form of a prayer. His prayer for them is that they would understand their tremendous riches in Christ.

ave you checked your bank book lately? I often check ours when I write out a check and when I balance it. There really is not all that much to balance. However, we have another account which never runs dry. It has so much in it that we cannot make the slightest dent in it. I am talking about our account in the Royal Bank of Heaven. Do you have an account there? Have you checked that “bank book” lately? William Randolph Hearst was a newspaper publisher, and a very wealthy man. He invested a fortune collecting art treasures from around the world. One day Mr. Hearst found, in a newspaper, the description of some valuable items that he felt he must own. He sent his agent abroad to find them. After months of searching, the agent reported that he had finally found the treasures. Where were they? In Mr. Hearst’s own warehouse. Mr. Hearst had been searching fran tically for treasures he already owned. Had he read the catalogue of his treasures, he would have saved himself

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much time, trouble and money. We as Christians are sometimes just like this. We do not realize the treasures we have in Jesus Christ. So we are always looking for something more. We do not need to do this. Our “bank book” is full to overflowing. We do not need to go looking for spiritual wealth. God has given us even more than we need. Are you looking for wealth that you already have?

Paul does not pray that God would give them something they do not have, but that He will reveal to them something they already have. Paul voices his concern to the Ephe sian Christians in the form of a prayer. His prayer for them is that they would understand their tremendous riches in Christ.

Shallow Understanding (vv. 15-16) Before he goes into the “meat” of his prayer, Paul shares with them his gratefulness. Upon his hearing about the Ephesian Christians, he is thankful for their faith toward God and their love toward men. These are the two dimen sions of the Christian life, and they can not be separated. If you are characteriz ed by one, you must be characterized by the other. Both were evident in the lives of these Christians. He was tremendous ly encouraged by this. Faith and love, however, are only the beginning. It just skims the surface, so to speak. Paul desired for these Chris tians to understand what great wealth they had in Christ. We, too, need to understand this better. In all of Paul’s prison prayers he men tions the blessings Christians can enjoy. In none of them do we find material possessions mentioned. He emphasizes spiritual perception and Christian character. It is very interesting to note that Paul does not pray that God would give them something they do not have, but that He will reveal to them

THE MESSENGER

something they already have.

II. Deeper Understanding (vv. 17-23) 1. Source of Understanding (v.l7) Paul now comes to the “meat” of his prayer. We can have faith and love but still not understand what we truly have

Only the Holy Spirit of God can open the eyes of our heart, giving us a deeper understanding of that great wealth in Christ.

in Christ. These things cannot be understood with the natural mind. We need the Spirit of God (I Cor. 2:9-16). It is the Spirit of God that reveals truth to us from the Word. He also gives us wisdom both to understand the truth and to apply it. The Spirit is, so to speak, the cashier at the Royal Bank of Heaven.

2. Place of Understanding (v.l8) This understanding, which is so necessary in our lives, must come to the heart of the believer. The heart is not just the emotional part of man. It is the inner man, which includes the emotions, the mind, and the will. The inner man parallels the physical. It can see, hear, touch, taste, smell (in the spiritual sense). When it does not see, it is not the fault of our intellect but of the heart, the centre of our whole per sonality. Only the Holy Spirit of God can open the eyes of our heart, giving us a deeper understanding of that great wealth in Christ. 3. Extent of Understanding The Holy Spirit opens the eyes of our heart so that we can understand the tremendous wealth we have in our “bank account.” This wealth involves four spiritual realities. • The highest knowledge which is possible for us to attain is that of know ing God. Atheists say there is no God for us to know. Agnostics say if there is a God, we can’t know him. The Bible says there is a God and we can know Him. Paul met God in the Person of Jesus Christ, and he realized that man cannot NOVEMBER 27. 1987

really understand much of anything unless he has a knowledge of God. We can know of Abraham Lincoln and Menno Simons, but we can know God (see also I John 2:3-11). Not only can we know Him as Saviour, but also as Father, Friend, and Guide.

point across. These words mean “power” as in dynamite, “working” as in energy, “mighty,” and “power.” We can say he is talking about “divine dynamic, eternal energy,” which is available to us. We, as Christians, need power, but for God to give this vast spiritual wealth • The second spiritual reality is to over to a mere human being with mere know God’s calling. “Called” is an im human strength would be like handing portant word in our vocabulary. an atomic bomb to a two-year-old. We “Church” means “called out ones.” need something extra, God’s power, to Paul continually reminds us that we are enable us to use God’s wealth. called by God’s grace. This calling is a We also need this power to “over holy calling (II Tim. 1:9). power” our enemy, who wants to rob Paul takes this one step further and us of our wealth. He would like to says our calling has resulted in hope. We “clean out” our account. However, need to understand this because it is part with God’s power this enemy is crushed. of our spiritual wealth. Our calling Many Christians allow the enemy to assures us of a delightful future. We will rob them (deceive them) of this see Jesus, our “banker,” face to face. wealth because they do not realize or ap Not only does this living hope encourage propriate the power God has given them us for the future, but for each day.

• Another spiritual reality is that we can know God’s riches. Here Paul is talking about the inheritance Christ has in us. As physical wealth brings glory to a man’s name, so Christ receives glory from His Church because of what He has invested in it. We are God’s in heritance and so we live to honor and please Him. That is His return from His investment in us. Isn’t it a marvellous truth that God thinks of us as His inheritance? Not only do we benefit from this heavenly “bank,” God does as well.

• First, God showed us His love by making us His inheritance. Then He en couraged our hope by promising us a wonderful future. Now Paul gives us

As physical wealth brings glory to a man’s name, so Christ receives glory from His Church because of what He has invested in it. We are God’s inheritance and so we live to honor and please Him.

something to challenge our faith, to know God’s power. This truth is so tremendous that he uses several Greek words to bring his

There is no power, neither in the human nor spirit world, which is greater than that of Jesus Christ. And we, as Christians, have that power within us.

in Jesus Christ. There is no power, neither in the human nor spirit world, which is greater than that of Jesus Christ. And we, as Christians, have that power within us. Isn’t it exciting to know that even though our bank acccount at the Credit Union or Toronto Dominion is not all that much, our account in the “Royal Bank of Heaven” is infinite? Yes, there is no limit to the wealth in this “bank.” Why do so many Christians seem so “poor” spiritually? They are like Mr. Hearst who went looking outside of his own wealth for something he already had. Many Christians do not realize the great riches they have in Christ and so they go looking elsewhere. Let the Holy Spirit open the eyes of your heart so that you can know and understand this great wealth that we have in Christ Jesus. What an exciting truth it is that our “bank account” never runs dry! ■ PAGE 3

Missions PAPUA NEW GUINEA

To Si or Not To Si Whaf’s the Difference? “Sometimes we say it that way and sometimes we don’t.” I’ve often heard this statement while trying to learn to speak Tungag. Sometimes I’m frustrated by it. I feel as if people are inconsistent in their use of the language. If they would only say it the same way every time, 1 might be able to learn it, but now how am 1 supposed to know when to say it one way and when to say it the other way? But are they really just haphazardly chang ing the way they say things? Do 1 really believe that the two forms of the statement have ex actly the same meaning? That it doesn’t make any difference which one is used? Am 1 right in saying that people are just inconsistent in their speech? No, 1 don’t think 1 can afford to adopt that attitude. If I do. 1 will surely miss a great deal of the richness of the language that my friends speak. When 1 learn a new language 1 try to put everything 1 hear into boxes. Preferably each new bit of information goes into an already existing box. That way things hang together much better. My daughter is doing this when she says 'brang’ instead of 'brought’. She knows that ‘sing’ changes to ‘sang’, so, according to her existing box, ‘bring’ must change to 'brang’. We adults do this all the time too when we encounter something new. We process it. My boxes for information about language are pretty neatly arranged. After all. I’ve spent 30 years processing a few closely-related European languages. 1 have many built-in ideas of how language works. So, what hap pens now when I’m confronted with Tungag, an Austronesian language of New Ireland? Back to our original statement: “Sometimes we say it that way and sometimes we don’t.” And don’t ask why. It just sounds right. In Tungag, as in every other language, there is a way to talk about location. As a linguist 1 know this, but the three-year-old boy in the

Umbukul village knows this too. Every day he needs to use sentences like these: ‘Ngen went to the garden’ and ‘Siavor is playing at Tengelik.’ This locative construction was one of the first ones 1 thought 1 had learned. It was so simple. Almost immediately 1 had seen, and put in my existing box, two little words that were like to and at in English. 'To the garden’ was 'one matang and 'at Tengelik’ was 'e Tengelik.’ But then, after a while, 1 started hearing people sometimes slipping in another little word. To make it more difficult, the little word that was being slipped in was also crop ping up in all kinds of other places and seem ed to have a different meaning each time 1 heard it. So this is what I was hearing: Me one si ngig (Come to ? me) or ane si kamen uul (to ? our canoe). On the other hand, 1 was still often hearing this: ane matang (to garden) and e Tengelik (at Tengelik). Sometimes with si and sometimes without. Haphazard? No dif ference in meaning? Hardly. What is the difference then? At this point we’ll just have to admit that we don’t know yet. But let’s not say that it’s haphazard, or an unnecessary meaningless word, just because it doesn’t fit into one of our existing boxes. Language cannot be separated from the people who speak it. Sometimes, however, when 1 am very intent on learning Tungag, it becomes more important to me than my relationships with people. Being aggravated by ‘inconsistent’ ways of saying things can harm relationships. It also reflects my pride because it means that 1 expect the language to be 'consistent’ for my ease of learning. And when it gets even worse, paranoia sets in and 1 suspect people of speaking like that on pur pose to confuse me. What rubbish! Of course not! It’s just simply that 1 don’t know the language. There is a perfectly sound reason for + si in certain contexts and -si in others. Not until

I know what that reason is, not until 1 can use the two forms correctly and with confidence; in fact, so confidently that 1 don’t even notice myself doing it, not until then can 1 claim mastery of the language. And this holds true not only for the location phrase, but for scores of other everyday expressions. Where does this leave me? Is it hopeless? Will 1 ever learn the language? Must 1 admit that 1 will never be able to speak with the fluency that my three-year-old friend has? Yes, maybe I’ll have to admit that. But then maybe I’ll also gain the attitude necessary for me to really learn - to learn not only the language, but more important, learn to know the people who speak that language. Lesley and Marianne Fast

CONTRIBUTORS: Our contributor to the Pastors’ Series in this issue is John Hiebert, pastor of the Birch River EMC Church. Harold and Alfrieda East (Blumenort) are serving at the Bach Hospital in Pakistan. Lesley and Marianne East (Blumenort) are involved in linguistics and translation in Papua New Guinea, with Wycliffe Bible Translators. Lester and Darlene Olfert (Swift Current) are serving under the EMC Board of Missions in Nicaragua. Ray Eriesen is the pastor of the Aberdeen E.M.C. church in Winnipeg.

CORRECTION: In the editorial of the November 13 issue “former friends” should have read “farmer friends”. COVER: The stately clump of birch trees was photographed on the Steinbach golf course (MH). Bare of leaves they await the promise of new life in spring expressed in L. Marie Enns’ poem. The Ennses attend the High Level EMC church. 1988 Memo Calendar Due to budget restraints the EMC Board of Education would like to announce that there will be no Memo Calendar for 1988.

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

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THE MESSENGER

NICARAGUA

Church Celebrates Anniversary Exalting God’s Name in Trying Times Sunday, October 4, was a pleasant time of reflection and remembering those whose vi sion it had been to raise up a church in Ciudad Sandino (Open *'3). Now, as they celebrated their 15th anniversary, with the setting in typical pink, they are able to support their own pastor, they show real signs of spiritual maturi ty and have improved the grounds and building tremendously. The children’s choir from the La Paz church was present to sing several numbers, and most of the other churches had sent a delegation to represent the churches and present them with a gift. It truly was a time of celebration. Praise God!

Lester has been named the Director of Christian Education (by the National Coun

cil). He also has responsibilities in several other supporting roles, so he finds himself really busy with studies, teaching, travelling to the different areas, as well as encouraging and equipping leaders to meet the challenges in their area of ministry.

We praise God for church leaders and a National Council who are concerned about exalting God’s name in these trying times. Often they find it difficult to find a solution to the obstacles they face daily. Please pray for them.

Time has gone by quickly; already it is four months since we left Canada. It is definitely a challenge and a privilege to be part of what’s happening in Nicaragua today. We ask ourselves questions like: Will we ever come

to grips with the extreme poverty around us? How do we deal with being seen as wealthy people? Will peace break out soon? Or will we have to hear over and over again the heart-rending cries of a mother who has received the news that her son was killed in combat? What role can we play in the lives of the young mothers who become the sole bread earner when their husbands are called to the service? Will our youth ever be able to get on with their studies and will the children ever laugh and play freely again?

Our strength and comfort comes from knowing God who is in control of all these situations and who gives us daily what we need to live uprightly under every circumstance. Darlene Olfert

Senior Pastor Required PAKISTAN

God Has Mercy On Whom He Wants The Lord Prepares Hearts High up in the Himalayan Mountains, on ly 50 miles from the Chinese border, is an area called Hunza. The people in these moun tain valleys are very different from the peo ple in the rest of the country. They are isolated because of the mountains, and over the years have been much less influenced by the religion of India before and now Pakistan. They also come from different people groups and so their ways of life are very different. All in all Pakistan has 50 different language groups, many of them in the northern mountainous area. There is a twelve-year-old boy in our hospital from Hunza. He was handling a kerosene stove when it exploded and burn ed both his legs badly. That was six weeks ago. Since then he has been to several hospitals and received “treatment” from various doctors and others. There are two missionary families in that area and they found this boy after he was burned. They saw him through much of his suffering and after con sulting with us they brought him down here to Bach Christian Hospital. When he came to us a week ago he had lost about a quarter of his weight, and the ban dages were a terrible stench. Fortunately for him, the entire bum was not infected too badly and he was ready for skin grafting within a week. He now has his first graft and we are NOVEMBER 27, 1987

praying that it will “take.” For many people like this boy, our little hospital becomes a haven. Of course there is pain involved with some forms of treatment, but our entire care is geared to show Christ’s love in action. While treatment is ongoing we talk to the patients and their families, who are always there to care for them, about their spiritual well-being. Because of the work of the two men up there, this boy’s father had already changed considerably when we first met them. He used to be a hard man, not caring for his family well. Now his heart is soft and he is open to the gospel message. He wants to learn more and more about Jesus. Just like in the time of Paul some people were ready to hear and believe, so we find that among all the people that come to us, some come prepared by God in a special way. These are ready to listen to this new and wonderful message. In the case of this boy and his father, there were people whom God used to prepare them. In many cases we find people who have had no outside contact, but who are for some unexplained reason not pre judiced against the story of Jesus. Because of the hard line that this religion takes against the truth of the death and resurrection of Jesus, it seems to me that it is the Lord preparing these hearts.

Senior pastor required for con gregation of approximately 150. Near the University of Manitoba campus. Applications are invited, with resume.

Contact: Glen Klassen Pastoral Search Committee Fort Garry E.M. Church 26 Briarcliff Bay Winnipeg, Man. R3T 3H7 Phone: 269-2474 (evenings)

JOB OPENING MCC Manitoba is seeking an Ex ecutive Director effective July 1, 1988.

Applications should include resume and references. Send to Abe Dyck, 263-13th Street, Winkler, Manitoba, R6W 1S5, Tel. 325-7862.

Harold Fast

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Messenger News

Baptism and membership reception at the Morris Fellowship Chapel. Back row (left to right): Steve Eidse, Chad Friesen, Cornie Doell, Trevor Dueck, Curt Schroeder, Pastor John Reimer, Jason Dueck, Gordon Siemens, James Siemens. Front row (left to right): Paulina Wall, Natalie Siemens, Shannon Penner, Kristi Friesen, Jolene Siemens, Kendra Warkentin, Jewel Heinrichs, Vai Kroeker, Melanie Friesen, Nettie Rose Cornelson, Katherine Doell. (The last two are membership transfers.)

LARGE GROUP BAPTIZED

Morris, Man.: Our hearts were lifted in praise and thanksgiving to our heavenly Father on September 20 when our sanctuary was filled to capacity. The occasion was a baptismal ser vice for sixteen young people and one elder ly gentleman. This was the first time our church has baptized such a large group and received them into membership. Another two ladies joined by transfer of membership. Our communion service that same day also had a record attendance. I believe that as parents and friends of these new members we all felt renewed in our own spiritual lives and I trust new commitments were made. On November 1 our young people’s group, together with their leaders, ministered to us by taking total responsibility for our morning worship service. We were blessed by it and commend them for their effort. Our prayer is that they will all find joy in serving the Lord.

FELLOWSHIP SUPPER ENJOYED Pclly, Sask.: For the holiday weekend in Oc tober we had many young people present, as well as several visitors. It is always good to see familiar faces back with us. We had big adult classes that Sunday, both young and senior! The youth group has been meeting regular ly under the leadership of Ferlin and Liz Abrahamson. On the evening of October 11 they had an extra large attendance with so many home for Thanksgiving. The feature PAGE 6

event was coming with a stuffed animal and dressing to match your “stuffy." Those who did not dress up were given the responsibility of judging the costumes. First winner was Randy Fehr of Swift Current, the son-in-law of our pastor. Bruce Hamm is spending some time at home following his summer of work at a fishing resort in Ontario. It never seems suitable for us here to have our Fellowship Supper on the Thanksgiving weekend, so traditionally we have it later. As is our custom, we have an evening service the first Sunday of each month, so on November 1 we combined the two with a very delicious potluck supper, followed by a variety program.

forget your family. The young people and congregation were also admonished: “Accept Marvin and Lorraine, make an effort to get to know them, and make them feel at home. It’s a working together.” In quoting Ephesians 4. Pastor Edwin Plett said “that installing a youth pastor is to equip the saints of God.” A diverse group formed around the youth pastoral couple for the prayer of commitment, among them the diligent, dedicated young people’s leaders. Thankfulness was also evident in the words of the installed couple. Already in the morn ing service, when they were accepted as members, Lorraine reviewed the many things she was thankful for. Marvin went on to say, “We are thankful to God and you people. We are looking forward to ministering and help ing and we hope we can work together in this ministry: it takes all of us.” If the “coffee” later downstairs was any in dication. then this new venture is off to a re sounding start. The community was engulfed in sorrow when a brother and uncle. Martin Plett (age 65), was suddenly called to go to be with his Heavenly Father on November 11. Aunt Helen and family were strengthened and comforted to have their missionary children, Jeff and Laural Anne and family, come home from Seesen, Germany in plenty of time for the funeral on November 16. Many people came for the solemn occasion; it proved to be a blessed extended family reunion. Jeff Pletts, having been gone almost three years, will take this opportunity to benefit from a three-month furlough. They are staying with Mrs. Helen Plett, endeavouring to comfort and to cheer.

A NEW CHAPTER BEGINS

Landmark, Man.: The college and career choir said it well in the song, “Jesus, We Just Want to Thank You,” in welcoming Marvin and Lorraine Thiessen of Blumenort as their first-ever official youth pastoral couple at their installation the evening of November 15 at the Prairie Rose church. The 22-voice young peo ple's choir too was present to offer their salute in song. “As a church, a new chapter has begun,” said Harvey Plett. “We are engaging a paid youth pastor to work with our youth; it was the decision as a group.” He called the Thiessens to 1) set an example, 2) work for the unity of the church, 3) accept us as we are, and 4) in your busy life, also as a stu dent at Winnipeg Theological Seminary, don't

Marvin and Lorraine Thiessen and son Craig. THE MESSENGER

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People enioying outdoor activities at the Brandon church camp-out.

CAMP-OUT A SUCCESS

Brandon, Man.: Our camp-out was a great success! We rented the facilities at the Carberry CSSM camp for the weekend of September 26 and 27. Many outdoor sports and inside activities were planned and en joyed by all. Throughout the weekend we had sessions on “Strategy for Living.” Our pastor. Dave Wiebe, gave us guidelines for setting our own spiritual and personal goals as we grow as Christians. Dave Thiessen of Calgary, Alta, spent Oc tober 4 with us. He spoke to us during Sun day school about church growth, sharing with us some ideas for programs they are using in their work in Calgary and encouraging us to continue to serve God through our church. During the worship service he spoke on our likeness to God as Christians and how our relationships with our family and fellow church members are often the best witness we have.

MESSAGES ON CHURCH UNITY

Riverton, Man.: We were indeed privileged to have Rev. John Koop as our guest speaker for our annual fall meetings. His messages, based on Ephesians 6, were very encourag ing and also very thought-provoking, regard ing church unity, 1 am sure many of us have a new insight into and new enthusiasm for growing together as a body of Christ, Following the last meeting we had a time of sharing, and gathering from the things said, there was definitely proof of the Holy Spirit working in the lives of our congregation. Following are some of the highlights mention ed: “The armour of God is not ‘singular’ but ‘plural,’ meaning the church together wears the armour so that instead of one individual trying to prepare and fight against the evil one, it is the church as a unified body standing

NOVEMBER 27, 1987

One ot the sessions on "Strategy for Living" at the Brandon church camp-out at the Carberry CSSM camp.

against this most feared enemy of God’s followers.” Also, we are united by the same power. Another person stated that we fight in an unfinished race and we will not quit un til it is done, emphasizing that we as a church body are in this race together and plan to stay unified until the end so that our ministry in Riverton will go on, 1 am sure there were many other highlights that we could share but 1 pray that our hearts have been renewed and we will put into the ministry whatever we have learned during these meetings. The youth also expressed their delight in having Mr. Koop enthusiastically participate in a volleyball and soccer game. Later, after a delicious snack, he spoke on some very im portant issues facing the young people in our congregation. Just one note of encourage ment he mentioned was that often young Christians raised in a Christian home feel that their testimony is not as great as someone who has had a traumatic conversion in which a whole new life began. But we should be grateful for this privilege of growing into the Christian life, and allow this to strengthen our character and faith so that we will stand firm. About four months ago, on June 21, Don and Laurie Penner were accepted into our membership. It was evident in their testimonies that God had worked in their lives to make it possible for them to be here with us. Del Fast welcomed them officially and we are looking forward to many more happy ex periences with them. Don and Laurie are living at Camp Arnes, where Don works as maintenance man. They previously lived in Calgary. We appreciate their involvement in our congregation and the Sunday school welcomes their two girls’ at tendance. May God bless you, Don and Laurie and family, as you continue to seek His will.

Kathryn and Russell Loewen of Win nipeg, Man. are beginning two-year Men nonite Central Committee assignments in St. John’s, Newfoundland, where Russell will be working with the Victim Offender Ministry, Russell received a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg, He was last employed as probation officer in Winnipeg and Beausejour, Man, The Loewens are members of Fort Garry Evangelical Mennonite Church in Winnipeg, Their children are Andrew and Elizabeth. Kathryn’s parents are Douglas and Keta Mitchell of Winnipeg. Russell’s parents are Edwin and Lydia Loewen of Winnipeg.

Christmas Concert “You are cordially invited to attend the Christmas Concert of the Win nipeg Mennonite Elementary School. Featured will be choirs and a musical entitled, ‘Sleepy Little Shepherd’. It will be held at the Mennonite Brethren Collegiate Institute Theatre at 7:00 p.m.on December 17,1987. A collection will be taken.”

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JOHN K. PLETT 1918-1987

"Our lives are short, seventy, maybe eighty years. Our meaning and joy. that which makes life precious, is found in struggles and hard work. Yet that too is but short, and we leave this world. " (paraphrase). These words characterized our husband and father and his attitude toward life. All his life he was a hard worker, not only because he had to be but because he loved work. Dur ing the early years of marriage and raising a family, the farm did not provide all that was needed for a growing family. Consequently he farmed and held on to a full-time job, without grumbling. Then, when he moved to Wawanesa, long, hard hours of work were needed to build a barn, house and yard. At the same time chores had to be done and the whole farm cared for. Father was born on August 18. 1918 to Peter and Sara Plett in Twin Creek. Manitoba. At the age of six he moved with his parents to Prairie Rose, now Landmark. As a teenager he committed his life to Christ and followed that with baptism into the Evangelical Mennonite Church. The commitment to Christ and the church was one that Dad took seriously all his life, and gave expression to it by service within the church.

Dad’s faith and commitment to God and people would not allow him to be part of the war effort during World War II and so he served as a conscientious objector in a camp at Clear Lake. Before the war was over, he courted and won the hand and heart of Ellen Plett. They were married on April 25, 1943. God blessed their love and marriage with seven children, five girls and two boys. We know that God loved us dearly, a love that automatically ex tended to our marriage partners as we got married and then to our children. His grand children were a source of pride and joy to him. Dad's love for people was not restricted to his family, however. He enjoyed times spent visiting with brothers and sisters, in-laws, and neighbors.

After years of farming and holding a job, first in the lumber camps where he worked for his father-in-law and later for several years as a plumber for his brother-in-law Archie. Dad, together with Mom, saw the opportunity in 1967 to move to Wawanesa, to establish themselves on a farm, and to become part of a new church community. They moved in the spring of that year. Dad and Mom enjoyed travelling. They visited Banff on more than one occasion, Mexico, and other interesting places. A highlight for Dad was their trip to Israel and Arabia to visit their daughter Lillian in the United Arab Emirates.

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As Mom and Dad entered semi-retirement they were able to spend more time in leisure ly activities. Dad had earlier served as an MDS delegate and gone to help with flood clean up in Rapid City. Now they were able to take three bus tours to MDS meetings in the United States — to Enid, Kansas, to Newton, Oklahoma and to California. This past spring Mom and Dad made their retirement complete and moved off the farm and into a new house in Treesbank. Despite Dad’s increasing difficulty with his knees and the severe pain that he often endured, he en joyed working with Mom and completing their home and yard and nurturing their newlyplanted trees. They had expected to spend many good years here but it was not to be. On October 30 of this year Dad had his third knee operation, an attempt to give him more mobility and to decrease the pain that he was experiencing. The operation seemed to be successful, but Dad had difficulty regain ing his strength. Yet, he wanted to be at home. He was released from the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg on Thursday, November 12. However, he seemed to be growing weaker and weaker. On Saturday at noon Dad was admitted to the Wawanesa Hospital. Even at the end. as his strength was rapidly fading, he still had his sense of humor. Despite the nurses’ and Dr. Abel’s best efforts, he died early Sunday morning of massive blood clots. Dad had a real love for music. On Sunday evenings he would often take out his accor dion and play his favorite hymns. He passed this love on to us, his children, and encour aged it in our friends. Consequently our home was often filled with the sounds of young peo ple making music, praising God with various instruments. He was also an excellent singer. His strong bass would come through loud and clear wherever he sang — at home, in the church choir, or at family gatherings — allow ing young, developing singers to lean on him. Today he is blending his clear, rolling bass in perfect harmony in the choir rooms of heaven with those who have gone before. Dad was predeceased by his parents: his sisters, Suzanna and Anna: and his brother. Peter. He leaves to mourn his sudden pass ing. his wife, Ellen: his children. Marian and husband Les of Brandon, Shirley and hus band Del of Wawanesa, Luella and husband Leonard of Wawanesa, Lillian and husband Ken of Brandon, Leroy and wife Sylvia of Regina, Eleanor and husband Robert of Wawanesa, Eddie and wife Valerie of Wawanesa; 16 grandchildren; five sisters, Katherine. Mary, Margaret. Sara, and Helen; two brothers, Frank and Jake; Mom’s brothers and sisters; other family members and many friends. He will be greatly missed by all of us. Yet, in our deepest grief and the pain of this loss, we trust in God and rest assured that we will meet again on that great resurrection morning when all tears will cease. The Family

ELIZABETH (MRS. J.P.D.) REIMER 1905-1987 “Rejoice in your hope, be patient in tribula tion, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality” (Romans 12:12,13). This was Mother’s favourite verse, one which she often quoted in German, “Seid froehlich in Hoffnung, geduldig in Truebsal, haltet an em Cebet. Nehmet euch der Heiligen Notdurft an. Herberget gerne. ” It has pleased our Lord to call home our beloved mother, grandmother and great grandmother at 9:00 p.m. on November 9, 1987 at the Morris District Hospital. She reached the age of 81 years, 10 months, and 26 days. Mother was born to Peter J. and Anna Loewen on December 14, 1905, in the Rosenort area. She grew up in the then known village of Rosenort where she receiv ed her schooling. Being the oldest child in the family, she enthusiastically helped her father with the farm and field work. Mother was baptized upon the confession of her faith on July 19, 1925, together with 29 other baptismal candidates. Her firm assurance of salvation was her strength and stay throughout her life. Mother was united in marriage to our father, Jacob Reimer, on November 19, 1926 by her father-in-law. Rev. Peter P. Reimer of Blumenort. After living on her parents’ yard for a year and a half. Mom and Dad built up their own farm in Pleasant Valley. This was a fulfilling and enriching experience for both of them. The challenge and concern that a large family brought did not diminish the love and care Mother gave to each child individually. Mother enjoyed singing, and in doing so she frequently ministered to the spiritual needs of her family. Many a household chore was lightened by her song. Another avenue of ministry was her prayer life. She spent a lot of time praying for her children, grand children, and the church family. Mom made

THE MESSENGER

had not called her home at that time in order that she might continue to pray for the young people. Mother keenly felt the loneliness in the loss of her husband in 1982. Her strength in the Lord became more evident at this time. In May 1985 Mother had her first stroke, which resulted in some loss of vision. Several strokes followed. Her final admission to the hospital was in August of this year. Here she slowly deteriorated until the Lord took her home on Monday, November 9. Mother was predeceased by her husband, Jacob Reimer, her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Peter J. Loewen, her parents-in-law, and several sisters- and brothers-in-law. Left to cherish her memory are her sons: Menno and wife Marion (Morris), Pete and wife Tina (Birch River), Leo and wife Eva (Morris), Allen and wife Millie (Monis), Jake and wife Doris (Swan River), John and wife Connie (Morris), Lome and wife Delores (Cavalier, North Dakota); her daughters: Min nie (Steinbach), Mary (Steinbach), Betty and husband Francis Thiessen (Steinbach), Alma and husband Andrew Friesen (Maryfield, Sask.), Annie and husband Ed Kroeker (Mor ris), Paulina and husband Les Siemens (Rosenort); 39 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, her stepmother, Mrs. Aganatha Loewen, six brothers and three sisters and their spouses, as well as many relatives and friends. The love and care shown to our mother over the years by relatives and friends has been greatly appreciated. Thank you for the tokens of love, cards, visits and prayer sup port. May God richly reward you. We look forward to the reunion with our mother in the presence of Jesus! To God be the glory! The Family

MY TRIBUTE TO GRANDMA REIMER

We would have loved to keep her but as we saw her frailty increase we knew we would have to say good-bye. It was my privilege to be Grandmother’s oldest grandchild. 1 will always remember her warm hugs accompanied by her whispered “I love you” or “I’m praying for you.” She must have had a high tolerance level for noise because she put up with a lot of it from all us grandkids. However, 1 do know she enjoyed it when this noise could constructively be turned into singing the hymns and choruses she loved. Her love for singing has been passed on to many of us. As I’m writing this I’m sure Grandma is sing ing in heaven. She wanted to communicate and keep in touch with her grandchildren and made the effort to be bilingual. When I addressed her in Low German she would reply in English with a chuckle and a sparkle in her eye. 1 thank her for her laughter and irrepressible sense of humor. Grandma was always ruefully jok ing about her grandchildren growing taller than she was. Most of us may have surpassed her in physical stature but 1, for one, am still striving to achieve the stature of her faith.

NOVEMBER 27, 1987

She kept her faith, through prayer, even in the face of hardships. She was an inspiration to me when she was hospitalized in the Grace Hospital with her first stroke in 1985 and I was able to visit her almost daily. 1 thank her for showing me how to overcome rough times in life with a sense of humor, singing and an unwavering faith in God. She was special to me and 1 will miss her but 1 can look forward to a “family gathering” when 1 will see her again. We’ve all mourned the loss of loved ones and of friends. But the time will come we’ll see them all again. All the children of the second birth will meet around His throne. When God’s forever family gathers home! Sickness and death have taken Grandmother from us for now, but our memories of her are a legacy which cannot be taken away. by Jutene Reimer

MARTIN P. PLETT 1922-1987

We as a family would like to pay tribute to our husband and dad and to share a few of our memories of Dad with you. Dad and his twin sister Helen were born on October 7, 1922 to John and Margaret Plett in Willowridge. We know God had a plan for Dad’s life. There were several times in his life when God clearly had his protecting hand over him. At about two years of age a curious boy licked out a spoon of lye; this made him very sick. Complications resulted during eating and swallowing, but God was with him. On a cold winter’s day, Dad was working on a bridge for a construction company. The prying bar he was working with, slipped, and he fell into the icy water. God helped him reach the surface and a fellow worker’s hand helped him to safety. Dad enjoyed the outdoors and felt that hard work was important. At 18 years of age he worked at Birch River in a logging camp for C.K. Plett. Dad enjoyed the adventures of the logging life. He related a lot of stories of the wrestling, the romping around and the pranks. At this time his Christian life was not very important. He felt that he was basically a good person and didn’t need to make a personal commitment. However, God continued to speak to him. His mother had a deep con cern for the spiritual life of her children. She prayed regularly for them. When he was 21 years old he made a personal decision for

Jesus. He was excited about his new-found faith. He came into the house where his mother was working and told her of his deci sion to follow Christ. He was baptized upon his faith about a year later in the Prairie Rose Evangelical Mennonite Church. He was married to Helen Kroekcr on September 6, 1952. Dad enjoyed farming and they briefly farmed in the Riverton and Willowridge areas. Because of Mom’s health they moved to Linden. After this. Dad work ed at various job locations. Dad really enjoyed children and music. He would entertain his nephews for hours. Many evenings were spent listening to music and playing his favourite tunes on the mouth organ. His favourite song was “Be Thou My Vision.” He loved rocking his children to sleep and telling them exciting stories. Dad had a loud, clear voice, so he could go from room to room and all the children could still get in on all parts of the story. Dad was never very concerned about his outward appearance. That is why his overalls got the most wear. He didn’t find the need to impress people with his clothes. He seem ed to say. “Accept me as 1 am," and most people did. A highlight for Mom and Dad was their trip to Germany, where their children are involv ed in church planting. This gave him a chance to see the work firsthand and see his grand children. He loved his grandchildren and often took them for walks. Dad experienced his first heart attack on August 2, 1987. He had planned to work until his 65th birthday, but after a few weeks in the hospital he started his retirement a few months early. During this time he was able to do the things he really enjoyed. Together with his son, he built shelves for tools in the barn. He went for many walks to build up his en durance. His favourite pastime was going for wood with his brother Cornie. They went for wood whether they needed it or not. A special part of these trips was the coffee breaks. Even ings were spent playing Rummikub with the family. November 11, 1987 is a sad day we will always remember. After his supper he went for a short walk. During his walk he had chest pains, but shortly after he got home the pain went away. When he retired in the living room, the angels in heaven took our dad to be with Jesus forever. Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife Helen; two sons and two daughters, Jeff and Laural Ann and their three children, Stacy, Melanie and Christopher of W, Germany; Ron at home in Landmark; Christa and hus band Rod Giesbrecht of Winnipeg; Lynda at home in Landmark; four brothers and eight sisters. He was predeceased by his parents, John and Margaret Plett, three brothers and one sister. We as a family thank all those who through prayers, financial gifts and meals have helped us through this difficult time. The Family PAGE 9

JOHN B. FUNK 1909-1987

John Boehling Funk, age 78, of Pambrun. Saskatchewan, passed away at his home on September 16, 1987. Funeral services were held on September 23 at 2:00 p.m. at the Millar Memorial Bible Institute Chapel. Inter ment was held at the Pambrun Cemetery, with Parkside Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. John was born at McMahon, Saskatchewan on August 3, 1909. In 1936 he fell in love with and married Helen Reimer. Together they farmed in the Pambrun area from 1940 until their retirement. At this time they took up residence in Pambrun, where he lived until his passing. John experienced the Lord in a very special way in the summer of 1958 and often since expressed his thankfulness for the Lord’s mer cy and help in his life. John was a member of the Evangelical Mennonite Church at Wymark. John enjoyed his children and grand children, the relatives and his many friends. He spent many hours studying God’s word and in prayer. John was predeceased by his wife Helen in 1986, his parents, Jacob and Agnes Funk, and three brothers, Ernest, Jake and Henry. He is dearly missed by his children; Ernest and Elsie Funk of Pelly, Sask.; Pauline and Robert Rossander of Kitchener, Ont.; Mary Ann and Bill Brothers of Calgary, Alta.; Jack and Joy Funk of Pambrun, Sask.; six grand children, Gloria and husband Randy, Grace. Gladys, Amanda, Crystal and Erica. John is also survived by two brothers. Abe and Isaac; and five sisters, Minna Schellenberg, Agnes Schellenberg, Elizabeth Rempel, Mary Rempel and Ida Rempel.

Reimer, Conservative MP from Kitchener, Ont., and Dan Heap, New Democratic Party MP from Toronto, as well as senior civil ser vants and ministerial advisors. Reimer, a member of the Kitchener Men nonite Brethren Church, praised MCC Canada’s submission on foreign aid to the Ex ternal Affairs Committee, of which he is a member. Of the 749 submissions received by the Committee, the MCC Canada submission was judged “the best” by Committee members, he said. Similar words came from Dan Heap, who was a member of the Parliamentary Commit tee which held hearings on Canada’s propos ed refugee laws. Heap said that the approach of MCC Canada representatives, who presented a ten-page brief to the Committee, was effective because it was “nonconfronational” and grew out of MCC Canada’s assistance to refugees. Near the end of the seminar, Ottawa Of fice Director William Janzen asked the group whether Mennonite church members, by not being involved with the government, “have failed to recognize that God cares for the world as a whole. We have often thought that the church is the primary focus of God’s con cern. But God is also interested in the order ing of human affairs, in the well-being of the world.” Government has a “significant role to play in doing that,” he said. Ed. Also present at this seminar was Mr. Henry Klassen, executive secretary of the EMC Board of Missions.

The Family

Members of Parliament Praise MCC Canada at Ottawa Office Seminar “I wanted to know if we are heard in Ot tawa,” said Ernest Friesen, Evangelical Men nonite Mission Church member and a member of the MCC Saskatchewan board, explaining why he attended the Oct. 29-31 MCC Canada Ottawa Office Seminar. Friesen returned home with yes for an answer. Seminar participants heard Members of Parliament and civil servants praise MCC Canada for the effective way it communicates with the federal government through the Ot tawa Office. The Seminar, the sixth since the Ottawa Of fice was opened in 1975, gave 15 participants a chance to learn about the government issues and structures and meet people who work in government. Speakers included John

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Book Review Mains, Karen Burton. Making Sunday Special. Waco: Word Books, 1987. 191 pp. $18.80.

For many fine Christian people Sunday morning is a terrible time. From the minute you get up till you finally sit down in church as the congregation starts singing its first hymn, everything is a mad scramble to get to church on time, dressed, hair combed and wearing a good Christian smile. As you set tle yourself into place while others are joyous ly singing “Sweet Hour of Prayer” you wonder about last minute details you may have forgotten-offering for the kids, your Sunday school book, did you turn off the element on the stove, did you lock the door, etc. Stew ing in your mind and heart are the impatient words you spoke to your child and the

frustrated outburst that came from your spouse. It isn’t till the closing benediction that you feel as if you are ready to pray and sing (or maybe you are just glad that it is time to go home). If you can identify with any part of this scenario, then Karen Mains’ latest book. Mak ing Sunday Special, is for you. In it she re counts her own frustrations with Sunday morning as a child in her parents’ home and later in her own home with children of her own. Together with her husband, David, direc tor of Chapel of the Air, she began to make changes in her own home that would help to change Sunday from the worst day of the week to being a special, high point among the other six. Using the Jewish celebration of the Sabbath, which starts the night before, she tells of various ways they use to prepare themselves for Sunday and a special time with Christ and his people in church. Preparation for Sunday morning should not begin on Sunday when you get up nor even on Saturday just before you go to bed; it should begin no later than Wednesday. By Wednesday you should start thinking about Sunday and preparing yourself for it. You can read passages of Scripture related to Sunday’s sermon. You can think of friends you might want to invite to church. By Saturday morn ing the clothes for Sunday morning and the meals for the day could all be planned. Some families begin slowing down on Saturday afternoon in anticipation of Sunday. At the Mains household they have a special meal on Saturday night at least once a month to lead them into Sunday. Hockey games, late movies and other tiring activities that leave you sleepy and tired on Sunday should be saved for a different day than Saturday. These are only a few suggestions that Mrs. Mains shares from their own experiences. She recognizes that each household is different and that YOU need to prepare in YOUR way. Nonetheless, if we really expect to meet Jesus on Sunday morning and expect that meeting to change our lives, then we need to prepare for it and orientate our whole life around it. There are a few places, particularly in the last section, where the writing is somewhat repititious and would have been well served by one more draft and a slight delay in the publishing schedule. That, however, does not take away from the excellent suggestions made in a very readable style. This book should NOT be on any church library shelf. It should be in the homes and hands of the church people, being read carefully, and the suggestions being im plemented. If you would like Sunday to be special, an experience of meeting Jesus, a time of renewal, a high point in your week, start by reading this book. Buy it, read it. share it with others, and read it again. But most of all MAKE SUNDAY SPECIAL IN YOUR WEEK, for the whole family. Ray Friesen

THE MESSENGER

Wanted

Edwin Friesen SEVERAL WEEKS AGO 1 met with the pastor and deacon of one of our churches and the discussion focussed on evangelism and, in particular, on the integration of non-ethnic Mennonite people into their local church. The church has been active in friendship evangelism, evangelistic Bi ble studies and numerous other related outreach activities. Through these efforts some people have become Christians, while others express interest. As well, a number of new people over the last several years have attended worship services for some time, but, for whatever reason, have not continued. The integration process was not completed; e.g., baptism, becoming partners in the ministry of the church. This raises a series of questions: “Is our church family really ready to include new people in our friendship circles?” “Should new people be given some ministry oppor tunity almost as soon as they attend to give them a greater sense of belonging and ownership?” “Is our Anabaptist theological orientation a factor?” “Does the name ‘Mennonite’ on the church sign imply that the church is basically for those people who come from one distinct ethnic background?” Tough questions and no easy answers, and yet I believe they are at the heart of our mission as a church. It may be helpful to remember that every person in this world comes from some distinct ethnic background. We all have roots. Even Jesus, who was God, took on a Jewish background during His incarna tion. At times His background was somewhat of a barrier (Luke 4:45,46) and yet, when people got to know Him, they found Him to be the answer to their need. I hope that as new people really get to know the people in our churches, they will find the answer to their spiritual quest, as well as experience an affirming fellowship.

Gestetner Available A used Gestetner, in very good condition, is available free from Evangelical Fellowship Church, Steinbach, Manitoba. Write or call: Dave Harms Box 2368 Steinbach, Man. ROA 2A0 Ph. (204)326-4669

NOVEMBER 27, 1987

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.

Around World INTERMENNO PROGRAM NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS Swiss chocolate, travel, biking, coffee drinking, language learning, friendship building and hard work. These are just some of the many memorable experiences past participants in the Intermenno Pro gram have noted. Intermenno is a program administered by Euro pean Mennonites that enables North Americans be tween the ages of 19 and 27 to spend a year in Europe. One Intermenno participant wrote of her ex periences from 1985 to 1985: “It’s been an intense year of challenge, excitement, fear, pain and reward . . . I've learned a lot about endurance — how to run with endurance keeping my eyes on Jesus. I’ve seen and felt and experienced so many things ... I can definitely say 1 wouldn’t trade anything for the year’s experience!” Young people who want to apply for Intermen no should contact: Mennonite Central Committee, Box M, Akron, PA 17501; phone (717) 859-1151; MCC Canada, 134 Plaza Drive, Winnipeg, MB R3T 5K9; phone (204) 261-6381; or a provincial or regional MCC office. Applications are due to MCC by January 15, 1988.

ONE MILLION SOUTH KOREAN CHRISTIANS GATHER FOR PRAYER IN SEOUL One million people gathered in Seoul’s Yoido Square for the inaugural “Grand Prayer Meeting for the Nation and People” on Saturday, October 3. Leaders of South Korea’s Protestant denomina tions called for a day of prayer to draw attention to the fact that “the light of Christ does not appear in our society even though there are ten million Christians” in Korea. (ODNS)

QUICHUA EVANGELICAL LEADER MARTYRED IN ECUADOR Antonio Zuma, leader of a group of 80 Quichua Christians in Ecuador, was murdered in early August during an attack by a mob angered by the group’s profession of evangelical faith. The inci dent occurred at Totoras in the mountain province of Chimborazo, where the community of Quichua evangelical believers now makes up nearly 38 per cent of the population. Persecution has been severe in several mountain provinces against Quichua Christians, including severe beatings, destruction and robbery of houses and possessions, and the murder of two other believers in 1985. (MNS)

CATHOLIC DISSIDENT DOUBTS “GLASNOST” WILL BRING GREATER FREEDOM TO THE UKRAINIAN CHURCH Recently released Catholic dissident, losyp Terelya, has stated that Ukrainian Catholic Bishops fear the Holy See in Rome will come to an agree ment with the Russian Orthodox Church and thus pave the way for Soviet authorities to “manipulate believers,” in statements made soon after his arrival in the West. Terelya said that skepticism over glasnost has led to speculation among Ukrainian Catholics that there will be greater persecution ahead. (ODNS)

CHRISTIAN PEACEMAKER TEAM WORKSHOP PLANNED News of the massacre of 1,000 Dinka men, women and children by a Muslim mob in western Sudan has been reported by World Vision, one of at least sixteen relief agencies ordered out of Sudan by the government. The U.S.-based organization said the event occurred in late March and was direct ly related to a mob scene in which Rizeigat Muslims wielding sticks, spears, axes and Soviet-made Klashnikov guns attacked 25 Christian Dinka wor shipers attending an evening prayer service. Dinkas trying to evacuate the area the following morning were attacked at the railway station by hundreds of armed Rizeigats resulting in the mass killing, ac cording to World Vision observers. (ODNS)

“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. 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.

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From the Editor What More Shall I Say? (1) AS I SIT HERE and contemplate my soon departure from the position of editor of our Conference paper, 1 feel a little like the writer of Hebrews when he says, “And what more shall I say?" (Hebrews 11:32). I have now said it for almost 25 years and what I have not said will likely remain largely unsaid. I have had the opportunities - many of them. If you would walk into my office and peek around the desk to my chair, you would notice that the leading edge is starting to get frayed so that already the lining is showing through. It has served me faithfully and well. Maybe this is a little picture of my life as editor of The Messenger - the years are beginning to show and it’s time for a replacement. The edges are getting a bit ragged, the lining is beginning to show through. Although still serviceable, a new one would look better. And so, if things go as planned, this is exactly what is going to happen. On January 1, 1988 the reins will pass over to a new editor. 1 don't think he will occupy my chair, though; he already has a different one. I don’t think they’ll put my chair in to the archives because it would take up far too much room. I know - it could be put into the staff room and whenever I go back for a visit I could sit in it for coffee (because I think I will want to go back for an occasional visit)! How can you stay away from a place where you have spent some of the happiest and most fulfilling years of your life. They have been years of a very realistic sense of the support of a constituency which was able to overlook many of my shortcomings. Unqualified support has come again and again. For this I am deeply grateful. To say that, because of the nature of my work, I have gotton to know the Conference and its people better than anyone else, may sound like boasting, but I don’t mean it in that sense. And at the same time I have been tremendously enriched in the in teraction that was afforded me as I rubbed shoulders at church dedications, annual conventions, regional conventions, and making church profiles. Rich is the person who has such a wide range and variety of friends. Although some of these contacts meant leaving my wife and family at home and living among strangers, it has been well worth it. Then, of course, in later years there were times when my wife could come with me, which made it doubly eventful. I am reminded of some of these contacts even now when I think of a touching incident when one of these friends we made years ago sent me a present of wild mint recently! He and 1 and another brother, now with the Lord, had gone picking wild mint (northern Alberta). He knew 1 liked it, and now, after all these years, remembered and sent me some. (Thanks,

Gordon!) Remarks like, “The paper is getting better all the time,” of course generated mixed signals. So there maybe had been a time when the paper was rather mediocre! On the other hand, 1 felt gratified that it was beginning to meet more and more needs.

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Deep appreciation and recognition for work well done must, of course, also go to the help I’ve had from secretarial staff. In the beginning, of course, I did everything - paste-up, proof reading, making address changes, etc. (I think those early issues also reflect this.) A number of these secretaries have come and gone. But my last one has been faithfully at it for more than 10 years. Hats off to Martha Kroeker for excellent and meticulous work in col umn after column of Messenger content! An error will be dif ficult to find. She may have worked behind the scenes, but we could not do without one like her. Thank you, Martha! I think 1 have mentioned before that there were times when I had thoughts of leaving this work. But the Lord seems to have known better. Not only have I made many friends and acquain tances in this country but my vocation has taken me to a number of other countries. I am grateful to have been able to attend two Mennonite World Conferences (Wichita 1978 and Strassbourg, France 1984). How much poorer I would have been if I had not been able to go to places like Germany, Switzerland, France, England and Pakistan! Rubbing shoulders with fellow editors, authors, and other writers has enriched my life and enhanced my own writing. I think especially of you fellow editors of Meetinghouse over the last 10 years or so. You have been to me, one who was uneducated in editorial finesse, a teacher and critic and friend. Thanks, Don and Wally and Ron and Bernie, and I could go on and on. You others are not left out because of lack of in fluence but merely because of lack of space. I think I have lived in one of the most exciting times of history. In my time I have personally come from the horsedrawn vehicle (my father never owned a car) to the jet age where one can now get on a plane in London, England around noon and be in Winnipeg the same day in the evening. Unheard of in the days when I was growing up! But we have experienced this! During the last few years it has sometimes been an effort to get up and go to the office in the morning. But almost always once 1 got down to work, things changed and enthusiasm returned. For this I am deeply grateful to God. I think part of the enthusiasm was due to the fact that I felt I was doing a useful, worthwhile ministry in the Conference. And even though I sat solitarily behind a desk I knew you were out there waiting for another Messenger. Among the things 1 will miss most when I am no longer here, I believe will be the close fellowship of my colleagues in the of fice. They have been a source of inspiration to me so many times. When I began, now almost 25 years ago, I was the only staff person and. of course, worked out of my home. Later (1966), when we established a Messenger office in Steinbach, I at first again was the lone occupant and it got quite lonely at times. Today I share an office with a number of co-workers, in ade quate, lovely surroundings - thanks to you, the EMC constituency. D.S. THE MESSENGER