The Messenger March 20, 1987

The Messengers EVANGFL ICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE CONFFRFNCF EVANGELICAL

VOL. 25 NO. 6

MAR. 20/87

Unwelcome Winds he wind is gusting loud and strong. It buffets as I walk along. It roars when caught in branches bare. Oh, this would be a day so fair If that wild wind would blow away And find another place to play.

Then I could walk at peace and ease Without the onslaughts of the breeze And revel in the clean, fresh air. Warmed by the sunshine, bright and fair. My thoughts might wander where they may. Enjoying such a pleasant day! Again I go out for a walk And all is silent as a rock. The sun is shining with its might On fields of snow, so dazzling bright. The trees are standing deathly still, There’s not a breeze on vale or hill. How tranquil is this pleasant day! But winter’s slow to go away Without the wind to lap the water The snow sheds as the sun gleams hotter. We must have days when wild winds blow To help the seasons come and go.

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How oft’ we wish that life would be All peaceful, calm serenity Where winds of trouble never blow To bring us sorrow, pain, and woe. With not a problem to annoy. Just happy days all filled with joy!

But we must trust our Father’s hand To guide our lives as He has planned. He understands the winds that blow To teach us faith or make us grow, That we His grace to others show As our life-seasons come and go. L. Marie Enns

There is growing awareness today that we must learn more about aging and about the aged. The demographics demand it. Scripture commands it. Compassion desires it.

Adding life to years By Bernie Wiebe

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ging still frightens too many people. The young don’t want to be reminded that today’s prolonged adolescence may be followed almost directly by ob­ solescence. They see aging as calamity. Decreased mobility and agility, memory lapses, almost assured illnesses, uncer­ tainty about financial security in an inflation-infected world. Will the geriatric glut become too much of a burden for the working population? Disposable commodities. The aged feed like excess baggage. At 65 they are given a watch or a plaque, an old age pension, and excused. It’s in­ tended to be a reward; but, for what end? While the aged are learning to switch from a materialistic preoccupation, we have nothing to make this rite of passage show that. Clearly, there is need for another dimension at this stage of life. In the meantime, medical technology, dieting and exercise are adding years to our lives. Today about one of ten peo­ ple in the United States and Canada are 65 or over. By 2030 that number will be about two of ten. The average male now lives to 70, female to 76. But who wants the extra years in societies and churches where old is con­ sidered disposable? And youth is regarded as the true “fountain of life”?

Honor the aged. The Bible includes “honor” to the aging and aged as one of the fundamental commandments for ethical and long life in any community (Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 5:16; PAGE 2

Ephesians 6:2-3). The Fifth Command­ ment says that respect for age will bring long life into the land. It is a command­ ment with promise. There are some hints what this “pro­ mise” may mean. Proverbs 16:31 (NIV) says age is attained by a righteous life. Righteousness is often said to be synonymous with justice. Justice generates an atmosphere of fairness and respect for all people. One obvious result of that is less contention, violence and re-

Senility is a disease too often imposed upon the aged because we promote the no­ tion that to live beyond age 65 is like driving up a dead end street.

jection toward anybody, therefore “adding life to years.” Proverbs 20:29 states: “The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old.” It seems that the life­ cycle moves from an emphasis on brawn to an emphasis on brain. That’s not to discredit either one. It recognizes their complementary nature. While brawn or muscular power may decrease with age, brain or wisdom will increase unless we discount and suppress it. Justice and wisdom speak of tolerance THE MESSENGER

and maturity or equilibrium. It is often thought among us that today belongs to the young; the world moves too fast for the old. Could it be that this is one reason why our societal norms seem to be careening from one extreme to another with ever-growing speed? Doesanyone know where and why we are moving in such a hurry? There are aged people who resist every change as if the only good in this world has happened in some romanticized “good old days.” Their eyes are ever over their shoulders or on the rear-view mirror. But, isn’t it time for youth to listen to the experiences of age and to learn that good, solid paths take time to build and to travel with awareness? Aged tolerance, justice and wisdom are one of the fundamental hopes for the future. It has been so from the beginning.

greatest gifts parents can give to young children is to help them be friends with at least one person over 75. When children appreciate elderly people, they soon learn that in one such person they have come to know a whole library or a whole encyclopedia. The vast storehouse of knowledge and wisdom in such a relationship is beyond imagination. And the exciting thing is that it’s not a one-way street. Elderly peole are equally fascinated by the imagination and dreams of the young. Such dyads become mutually enriching in ways that formal school learning can rarely match. There is growing awareness today that we must learn more about aging and about the aged. The demographics demand it. Scripture commands it. Com-

Our excuses. Such truth has never been easy on the young. In Jesus’ time, he confronted the people with their own selfishness. “You have a fine way of set­

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mother,’ and ‘Anyone who curses his storehouse of knowledge and wisdom in SUCh a relationship

father or mother must puts^ys'to to death. But you ray'thaUf a be man his’ But you say that if a man says to his

father or mother: ‘Whatever help you might otherwise have received from me is Corban’ (that is, a gift devoted to God), then you no longer let him do anything for his father or mother” (Mark 7:9-12). Even religious excuses seem to come up naturally. What we might have set aside to work with the aged is needed for our other worthy Conference and con­ gregation causes. So there are no peo­ ple or financial resources left. Gray Power. Gray Power keeps on asserting itself and we will see more at­ tention to aging and the aged, like it or not. When the present Canadian govern­ ment suddenly announced it would cut old age pensions (by de-indexing — an indirect and subtle attempt to tax the ag­ ed) , the Seniors of Canada surprised Ot­ tawa by how quickly they could organize and lobby against the injustice of this ap­ proach. There was little evidence of any geriatric senility and an ample display of the creative potential among the aged. Libraries and encyclopedias in people. I have frequently used an illustration in family seminars. One of the MARCH 20, 1987

is beyond imagination. passion desires it. ( One model for “adding life to years” through our churches and families could be the following: 1. Ministries to the aging and the aged. We have designated services to most categories of people. There are things we must offer to people with handicaps, to children with learning difficulties, to single parents with low incomes, to disturbed adolescents, to those

who are abusers of alcohol, other drugs, spouses or children. Likewise there are ministries essential to older peopie. Like counseling for meaningful transitions from career orientation to relationship orientation, from productivity orientation to “being” orientation, from a work-focus to a more leisure-focus — all with self-esteem. Much needs to be done in this area. We have too easily assumed our service to the aged was done when we built homes for the aged. About two thirds of the elderly live in their own homes and only six percent require nursing care. But all of them deserve a sense of dignity and outlets for continued creative “being.” Senility is a disease too often imposed upon the aged because we promote the notion that to live beyond age 65 is like driving up a dead end street. More essen­ tial than housing is the service to the elderly of caring younger people who will counsel them about adding life to their years. Pensions, until recently mostly

built around men, have been totally inadequately designed. In many cases, the women outlive their spouses and are then left with little provision for them, 2. Ministries for the aging and the aged. Like other groups of people, there are among the elderly those who cannot help themselves on certain mat­ ters. They need help with meals, transportation, medical support and cmotional/spiritual assurance. While it is never wise to do for people what they can and need to do themselves, there are legitimate times for carrying one another’s burdens. Access to buildings, especially churches, needs to be more considerately designed. Learning opportunities, both formal and informal, are essential for these people who have new and extra time to integrate into their lives, (cont’d next page)

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3. Ministries with the aging and the aged. One of the things that makes life meaningful is to become equal part­ ners at work, at leisure, at church and in the family. When the elderly are sudden­ ly pushed aside and pointed to the rock­ ing chair, all sense of partnership is destroyed. While their singing voices may change and their speed decline, their gifts of caring and wisdom naturally increase with age. Aren’t these elements crucial to any church and community? Memory loss is often as much due to lack of use and “selective inattention” because they have no reason to practice it, as it is due to any biological reasons. The sense of well-being, self-worth and intergenerational connection fostered by partnership in ministries of the church and of the community can often largely erase the gap between young and old. Instead, it can generate the koinonia community that the Body of Christ is all about (1 Corinthians 12:12-26).

Older people are shifting from an orientation that says “time is money” to “time is people.” Any keen look at the Bible notices that this is in keeping with the example of Jesus.

4. Ministries of the aging and of the aged. This is the greatest challenge currently facing us. There was a time in many churches when the children and youth were relegated to unique roles out­ side of worship services and outside of participation in formal church ministries. Today we build many of our programs around the children and youth. We have special choirs, summer service and mis­ sion outlets at home and overseas, places to provide opportunities to the young.

For our elderly people to retain their dignity, their self-respect and self-worth, they must be able to serve in ministries that are distinctively appropriate for

them. Not token ministries where we let them share or ministries where we set the “golden agers” in some separated centers by themselves. They must feel freedom to choose to be together or choose to be in special groups. They need to feel the opportunities to creatively express their gifts and commitments in places and ways where this can be appreciated. Older people are shifting from an orientation that says “time is money” to “time is people.” Any keen look at the Bible notices that this is in keeping with the example of Jesus. Could it be that our churches will experience their next great revival when we see the ministry of the aging and the aged actually turned loose among us? Would we then see how beautiful it is to have the elderly with us? And wouldn’t all of our spirits be blessed because we actually believe and exercise the Fifth Commandment?

Letters Enriching Experience

My husband and I and our girls had the privilege of visiting Harvey Plett in the Bahamas this winter. We found it a very enriching experience. Harvey asked me to write a short report for him: The colours of the Bahamian flag are blue, black and white. While they all have a cer­ tain purpose, black seems to be the most im­ portant. It stands for the black people, and there are a lot of people in Eleuthera. Dan and I had the privilege of visiting with quite a few of these people. While we were in Eleuthera, Harvey took us to see some of the. friends he has made. Everyone expressed thankfulness and appreciation for the work that Harvey is doing. Harvey is not only visiting and making friends, he is also involved in Junior Achieve­ ment with the young people. Also every Friday he has library where people can come in to borrow books or just enjoy a game of Sorry

with some friends. Once a week he joins a men’s group for Bible study. Sending out Bicourses to 100-125 children ^week also takes up quite a bit of his time Besides his twice-a-week trips to Governor’s Harbour to pick up the mail for Windermere High School and doing business for many of the mis­ sionaries, Harvey is also kept busy with maintenance of the school grounds. And as funds come in there is this new school building to complete ... We really enjoyed visiting a missionary while on holidays and would encourage others to do so too. Sincerely, Martha Reimer Box 406 Fisher Branch, Man. ROC OZO

MCC Service Opportunities

FOR SUMMER: Looking for an outdoor challenge? Why not plant gardens and build

friendships in a native community? MCC people from 17^0 retiremejit age, from

May to August, for this and other summer assignments. Apply as soon as possible. FOR ONE YEAR; Are you 17 to 20 and ready for a year of serving, learning and liv­ ing together? MCC needs young people eager to join a SALT unit at the end of August. Apply before April 30. FOR TWO OR THREE YEARS: Are you ready for the challenge of a regular service assignment in North America or overseas? MCC needs people in areas like agriculture, health care, education and social services. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: -Len or John (204)261-6381 134 Plaza Drive Winnipeg, MB R3T 5K9 -OR your provincial MCC office

CONTRIBUTORS: Bernie Wiebe. 515 Portage Ave., Win­ nipeg, Man. R3B 2E9, is a Teaching and Research Associate at the Mennonite Studies Centre, affiliated with the University of Winnipeg. Frank and Mary Braun (Badgerville) are in­ volved in church planting among native peopie. Joe and Olga Reimer (Blumenort) are serving in South Africa under The Evangelical Alliance Mission. „ _Enns __ _ lives in Meander ii.vei, L. ___ Marie River, Alberta. Anne Klassen makes her home in Gienora, Man. ROK OYO.

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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MARCH 20, 1987

Missions SOUTH AFRICA

News Bits From South Africa Our Involvement at EBC - We have, since September, been kept busy with the construction of two double dor­ mitories for married students at Evangelical Bible College. The first one has just recently been occupied while the second one is waiting for a little more money. - We are also busy with two church building projects in Cape Town, both of which are slated for completion by the end of the year if the funds will be available. - The church in Port Elizabeth, 400 km. east of Cape Town, was finished in February. It will be dedicated in April. - Joe is teaching music at EBC for the first year. The choir is also under his direction. - We have ten first-year students at EBC, bringing our student body to 26. - Olga has become librarian and book­ keeper at EBC. - One of the frustrations with our lawns, both at the Bible college and at home, is the problem of moles. - The two guava trees in our back yard are promising a good crop again this year. - Many of the farmers in South Africa are facing a sixth consecutive year of crop failure due to drought. - TEAM has been involved in food distribu­ tion for some time already in Mozambique. We are hoping for a resident missionary there in the near future. - Several tourists have recently been ab­ ducted by South Africa’s neighbouring countries. - In our last baptism, 17 were baptized. Among them was one whole family of five from Mitchell’s Plain. - The nine EBC churches come together for a combined meeting once every two months. This is where our baptisms take place. - In our discipleship class we have a cou­ ple, Laurence and Urshella Tengren, who have recently been saved out of the New Apostolic Church, the fastest growing cult in South Africa. - Joe is presently working on building plans for a new church to be built in Mitchell’s Plain, where we have worked since we came to Cape Town. - The church-planting ministry in Mitchell’s Plain has grown to the point where we are occupying four school classrooms on Sunday mornings for worship services. - Pinelands Municipality is putting in a new

MARCH 20, 1987

surface water drain past our house, on Nightingale Way, where one of their employees was killed a couple of weeks ago when the trench caved in. - The wife of our native African evangelist was recently killed when she got run over by an ambulance at a hospital. - We buy our groceries at a supermarket called Pick and Pay, about one mile from us at Howard Place. It’s also where we collect our mail. - One of our EBC graduates from last year, Reg van Rooyen, and his wife Bernadette, have now been elected to serve as the pastoral couple in Mitchell’s Plain where we also work. - Pastor Bowers, our former pastor, has now become a full-time evangelist. - Government elections are coming up in May. Speculation is that the National Party, the present government, will lose a number of seats to those more to the left. One of the drawing cards these parties use is the promise to give the Blacks a vote in parliament. - One of the portions of Scripture we recently used in our devotions was the book of Exodus. After the Israelites committed the sin of idolatry (chapter 32) and grieved the heart of Moses, he prayed, “Show me now your way . . . that 1 may consider this nation to be your people.” This is probably the most fitting prayer at a time when those who are near us are suffering, or insulting us, or backsliding. Although God is ultimately responsible. He has given us a great responsibility. Joe and Olga Reimer

SWAN RIVER, MAN.

The Lord is Building His Church Growing Friendships The phone rang. A call came to relatives, saying, “Your grandmother is very ill, come at once.” This incident was the means of opening the way to regular visits, Bible studies and a Sunday service among the native peo­ ple in Swan River. A few days later we followed the relatives and concerned Christians to stand with them in their hour of struggle and trial. As prayers were made and the way of salvation made plain (both in Saulteaux and English) peace came to her heart. She rallied and in a short

time left the hospital. The Lord spared her life and gave this mother and grandmother a few more months. This is how we met up with a large family group, many of whom were longing to see a regular work started. Since this lady’s death and funeral last fall, we have made regular visits to Swan River. (We were asked to sing, share the Word of God and in this way bring comfort at her “wake.”) On Thursday we make housecalls, searching for native people. In the afternoon we conduct a Bible study, which is rotated from home to home. On Sunday afternoon we have been having services at George and Christine’s home. Our friendship has grown and the Lord is blessing. We sense God drawing the people together. Much groundwork has been done in the past by churches, Steep Rock Bay Bi­ ble Camp and individuals. Recently the EMC opened its church doors to us, as a group, for Sunday services. This church is supporting the work in other ways as well. A bond of fellowship was established when the ladies asked Mary to share about the work at a ladies’ fellowship meeting. The Christian native women from both Kamsack and Swan River were also involved. God blessed as they witnessed to their faith in Christ and told how Jesus had brought forgiveness and changed their lives. Today the Badgerville Evangelical Fellowship (Kamsack) is involved in this outreach. Each Sunday someone will join us as we travel the 60 miles, to help in the ser­ vice. Ron and Betty Predy (Swan River EMC) have offered their assistance. The Lord is building His Church and we are so glad to be part of it! Frank and Mary Braun

LITERATURE CONTINUES TO BE A WITNESS IN EGYPT

Wheaton, Ill. (MNS) -- Three Nile Chris­ tian Bookshops continue to produce and distribute gospel literature to Egypt’s truthseekers and evangelical Christians, accor­ ding to James A. Albrecht, Church of God missionary in Egypt. In the past five years, books with an evangelical and holiness em­ phasis that more clearly communicate the gospel message to nominal Christians have been published, Albrecht said in a recent ar­ ticle. All books are printed in Arabic. Book publishing is subsidized in order to of­ fer the public books and literature at affordable prices. Most books sell for one dollar or less. Christian literature has much competition for the attention of literate Egyptians. At a bookfair in Cairo, the Soviet Union and China each had large booths of attractive literature on display. PAGE 5

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Messenger News

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The participating personnet at the EMC History Symposium on March 13 and 14 at the Steinbach Bible Coiiege. Back row (left to right): Dei Plett, Henry Fast, Al Reimer, Menno Kroeker. Front: Ctarence Hiebert, Harvey Plett. Roy Loewen.

EMC History Symposium By Dave Schellenberg MARCH 13 AND 14 saw an EMC History Symposium take place at the Steinbach Bible College, sponsored by the EMC Board of Education and Publication. The Symposium consisted of presentations by seven invited speakers who addressed themselves to brief biographies of some of our leaders of the past. Dr. Clarence Hiebert, on the faculty of Tabor College, Hillsboro, Kansas, had two lectures on Aeltester Peter W. Toews. Dr. Al Reimer addressed himself to Klaas Reimer. Dr. Reimer is on the faculty of the University of Winnipeg. Del Plett, a Steinbach barrister and solicitor.

spoke on Aeltester Abram Friesen. Harvey Plett, Academic Dean at the Steinbach Bible College, spoke on Heinrich Balzer. Henry Fast, dean of the high school department at the Steinbach Bible College, addressed himself to the life of Abr. L. Friesen. Menno Kroeker, MCC Kanadier Concerns, spoke on Aeltester Jacob M. Kroeker, while Roy Loewen, farmer and student, spoke on Aeltester Peter R. Dueck. The sessions were well attended, speaking well of the interest there is in this topic. Who were the leaders of old? The following gives you an idea:

Elder Peter W. Toews (1841-1922) by Dr. Clarence Hiebert: Mr. Toews was the KG elder who in 1881 left the church and formed the Church of God in Christ Holdeman. Ed. The conclusion reached by Mr. Toews after his consultations with Mr. Holdeman was the following: “1 believe that church (Holdeman) is more entitled to be the church of God than ours insofar as they have more ex­ perience in the peace of God . . . They are baptized into one body by one Spirit and have a firm rule by which they take only the born again children of God into their church by baptism.” The response then to Holdeman com­ ing back to Manitoba in the winter of 1881-82 was that 136 were baptized. One hundred of these could have been KG members. The other 36 could have been unbaptized children of KG members. What motivated Mr. Peter Toews to leave the KG and join with the Holdemans? According to the speaker, Toews, in his search for a pure church held that such a church must be historically traceable, among other things. He wondered if the KG was what Klass Reimer, Heinrich Balzer and others had said they were. The reading of a certain book supported his question as to whether the KG really was the true church. Holdeman, he felt, had the answer. &

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z Mr. John C. Reimer (right), long-time resident and former teacher, with Lawrence Kiippenstein, director of Mennonite Heritage Cen­ tre, Winnipeg, Man.

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Well-known historian Peter J.B. Reimer (left) of Rosenort and Harvey Plett, one of the speakers at the Symposium. THE MESSENGER

sharing. “If the members of the Gemeinde were truly one in a spiritual sense . . . then the socio-economic for­ tunes must be intertwined as well.” He was “a man of courage and princi­ ple, a sensitive spiritual leader and evangelical missioner ...”

Heinrich Balzer (?-1846) by Harvey Plett: Very little is known of Balzer’s early years. He joined the Kleine Gemeinde in 1833. According to one source, Mr. Balzer kept minutes as well as other records of Kleine Gemeinde brotherhood meetings. According to our speaker, Mr. Balzer was somewhat of a writer and poet. One A larger-than-expected crowd came to the EMC History Symposium. poem reveals that he was a man con­ Aeltester Klaas Reimer church or the state (Gebietsamt). cerned about creeping worldliness, he (1770-1837) by Dr. Al Reimer; Dr. Another was the contributions which believed in the bann and in voluntary Reimer, as he began his report on Klaas were solicited by the Russian government membership. He was a man willing to follow his convictions. He held a high Reimer, spoke of him as a man who “ap­ in its war against Napoleon. view of scripture. Klaas Reimer did not want to split peared at just the right moment in Rus­ A publication credited to him is the away from his church but reform it from sian Mennonite Church history . . .’’He went on to say, though, that at “. . . the within. The basic question was who booklet Verstand und Vernunft written time and for many years afterwards most would control the community, the church probably around 1833 (Understanding and Reason). This book is divided into or civil authorities. Mennonites did not think so.” 11 parts, according to Plett. Among The ultimate result, however, was that Klaas Reimer’s parents were Heinrich and Agatha Reimer of Petershagen near Reimer and his followers did withdraw, other things, he brings out that man is Danzig (Prussia). Apparently Klaas and in 1812 they decided to form their created to a threefold life - body, soul and received no formal education, although own church and Klaas Reimer became spirit. He continues to expound that there is a big difference between reason and the first elder. learning came easily. Vernunft. In one of the parts he em­ In his youth he was drawn to the freedom and pleasures the world had to Aeltester Abram Friesen phasizes that it is a matter of the head and offer. At age 20 he was baptized and ac­ (1782-1849) by Delbert Plett: Mr. the heart. To summarize, Plett points out that cepted into the Danzig Gemeinde. But Abram Friesen was the second Aeltester Balzer pleads for what he calls the he confesses that he was “too preoc­ of the Kleine Gemeinde in Russia. Mr. Friesen was a man of vision of a simplicity of the Gospel. cupied with the world of created things The basic manifestations of Vernunft and not enough with the Creator of all church restored to its apostolic are big business, higher schooling, wealth things Himself.” foundations. He was elected to the ministry in 1801. He was born in 1782 in West Prussia. and looseness in ethics and morals. “Heinrich Balzer, with his acute mind He recorded that he felt unworthy and His parents seemingly had a high regard unprepared for a spiritual role in the for the normative of writings of the and logical arguments, becomes a powerful spokesman for the Kleine church . . . But he felt that since God Anabaptist-Mennonite faith. had called him into the ministry He He made the move to Russia around Gemeinde.” would also grant him strength to carry out 1804. “In 1818 he made one of the most difficult decisions of his life and joined the his duties. Aeltester A.L. Friesen In 1804, with 30 adult followers, he Kleine Gemeinde Mennonites.” He quickly became one of the promi­ (1831-1917) by Henry Fast: Mr. emigrated to Russia and settled in the nent leaders in the Kleine Gemeinde. In Friesen was the Kleine Gemeinde (KG) Molotschna settlement. Mr. Reimer, although a determined 1823 he was elected as minister and in Aeltester who led a group of 36 families man, was not the religious reactionary his 1838 as Aeltester to replace Klaas from Russia to Jansen, Nebraska in enemies made him out to be. Nor was Reimer who had died the previous year. 1874. At this time it was separated from he always as mild and submissive as He saw the worth of literature. “It the Manitoba Kleine Gemeinde group. some of his friends have claimed. He is seems that Friesen was singlehandedly Biologically, though, there were many characterized, however, as a truly loving responsible for the translation and connections. and caring man. Yet tact and diplomacy publication in German of the Peter Peters He was elected as minister in 1861. were hardly his strongest traits, according book The Mirror of Greed. ” He was vital­ Some years later there was a division in to Dr. Reimer. ly involved in the 1834 publication of the the KG, which resulted in a new settle­ The issues at stake were serious ones, three-volume Foundation of Christian ment (Borsenko). the main one the question of whether of­ Doctrine by Menno Simons. In Jansen they purchased land for He also believed in the community of $3.75 an acre from the Burlington and fenders should be disciplined by the MARCH 20, 1987

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Missouri Railroad. The Jansen KG was not without its problems as different church groups made inroads in the community. In 1882 Mr. Friesen was called to Manitoba to help reorganize the Manitoba KG church which had become unorganized by the Holdeman schism. Aeltester Jacob M. Kroeker

(1837-1913) by Menno Kroeker: Jacob M. Kroeker was the first Aeltester after the Holdeman split. He was baptiz­ ed at the age of 19 by Bishop Johann Friesen. He married Maria Klassen in 1857. In looking at his life before conversion, Mr. Kroeker remarked that as far as men were concerned, he appeared to be alright, but from God’s standpoint he clearly perceived that he must be born again. He searched much in scripture and also read extensively. His prayer was that he would persevere until his salvation would be made complete. Mr. Kroeker was elected as deacon in 1872. He and his family made the move to Canada in 1874, settling in Rosenhof. He was elected as minister in 1878. With typical KG reserve, he emphasized how unworthy he felt himself to be for such an important calling. Soon after, he was to face the greatest crisis of his ministry when the Holdeman revival split the KG. This was obviously a very heart­ wrenching experience for Mr. Kroeker. Together with two other ministers, Mr. Kroeker remained in the KG “with the once accepted confession of faith.” Upon invitation, Mr. Abram Friesen from Nebraska came to Manitoba in January 1882 and helped to bring some order into the church once more. A bit later Mr. Jacob M. Kroeker was elected bishop. Mr. Kroeker’s impact on the KG lies

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very much in his commitment to the original vision of Klaas Reimer that the church must be a body of committed believers whose life will demonstrate a life of discipleship in a spirit of humility and devotion. The speaker concluded with, “I believe it is safe to say that without Mr. Jacob M. Kroeker and his sense of commitment at a very vital time in our history the KG would not have survived.” He died in 1913 after serving the KG for 30 years as bishop. Aeltester Peter R. Dueck (1862-1919) by Roy Loewen: Mr. Dueck was the Aeltester of the East Reserve KG for almost 18 years (1901-1919). He lived in Steinbach. Mr. Dueck was an active person with a well-thought through plan of action, and one “who confidently took up the challenge of leading a church along a dif­ ficult path in a rapidly changing society.” His children remember him as a gen­ tle, mild-mannered and generous man. In 1901, as the youngest of three can­ didates, he was elected as Aeltester. This spoke well for his character and spirituality. During his term as Aeltester there were 269 baptisms, 61 funerals for members, 37 resignations and excommunications, etc. He was to see his Gemeinde almost double in size from around 208 to 387 members. His emphasis in his sermons was that people are in this world to prepare for the next.

Our grain got through, CFB officials say Winnipeg - Church representatives returned to Canada recently with eye-witness accounts of grain donations being delivered in Africa. The ten-member delegation, directors of the Canadian Foodgrains Bank, witnessed the unloading of the vessel “Al Rahman,” at the Port of Assab in Ethiopia in early February. Going inland, they also met people who had received previous food aid from Canada. The story began last fall, after the harvest. More than 1000 farmers in western Canada donated 7000 tonnes of wheat for food aid and relief programs by churches, coordinated through the CFB. The grain was collected at 25 points on the Prairies in late November and early December. Matching three-to-one donations in cash and kind by the Canadian International Development Agency multiply the annual Foodgrains collection. Up to $48 million has been pledged by CIDA for support during the

next three years. Bert Loewen, CFB Executive Director, first witnessed the grain being collected at Lamp­ man, Sask. He again saw it being transferred from rail cars to the “Al Rahman” in Montreal on December 22. When the “Al Rahman” docked at Assab, Loewen and the CFB directors saw workers filling 120,000 bags with the 6,000 metric ton­ nes of wheat. The bags were loaded onto waiting trucks for distribution at feeding cen­ tres and in developmental projects throughout Ethiopia. Even spilled grain was swept up by women from the deck of the ship. The group then travelled 150 km west to Ali Dar and was introduced to the leaders of the Afar people. The nomads expressed gratitude for the CFB wheat which has been used for baking bread for families. Ethiopia was one of three drought-stricken African countries visited by the delegation members during their two-week visit. Several CFB representatives visited Mali and another group visited Mozambique. Along with these three nations, the CFB shipped food to Angola and Algeria in Africa during the past year, working through more than 20 different agencies. The group was able to meet many of the agency personnel involved in distributing CFB grain, and visited project sites in each coun­ try, speaking directly with some recipients of the food aid. In Geneva, Switzerland, the group had meetings with United Nations officials and members of non-governmental organizations. Interviewed in Geneva, Loewen said the purpose of the trip was to find out, “Did the food in fact get to the people? We are all agreed our food indeed went through.” Loewen said less than four percent of the 54,000 tonnes of food shipped in 1986 to Ethiopia by the CFB was lost or wasted. “The consignees (receiving agencies in Africa) did a conscientious job of getting the food to the people in greatest need.” The CFB food now is being used mostly for development projects, as opposed to direct famine relief operations. More than half of the Foodgrains Bank shipment to Africa in 1985 and 1986 has been used in long-term, foodfor-work projects. The food is given in ex­ change for vital public work projects, such as bridge and road construction, well drilling, ir­ rigation systems, fish pond development and reforestation. In Mali, for example, the CFB grain enabl­ ed people from five villages to build a road. The “short cut” eliminated a 200 km drive to nearby towns and markets. The CFB is a non-profit coalition of seven Christian denominations, based in Winnipeg. The church partners are The Canadian Bap­ tist Federation, Canadian Lutheran World Relief, The Christian and Missionary Alliance, Christian Reformed World Relief Committee of Canada, Mennonite Central Committee (Canada), The Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada and the United Church of Canada. THE MESSENGER

I

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USSR AGREES TO IMPORT RUSSIAN-LANGUAGE BIBLE COMMENTARY

!

Missions evening supper at Pioneer inn in Steinbach.

Missions Information Evening by Dave Schellenberg March 6 saw a gathering of post-secondary students and the EMC Board of Missions take place at the Pioneer Inn in Steinbach for a supper meeting of information by the Board of Missions. The program after the meal consisted of dif­ ferent presentations. Mr. Henry Klassen, Ex­ ecutive Secretary to the Board, spoke on “Missionary Strategy”: 1) Proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ; 2) lead to living relationships; 3) train for leadership and 4) provide frater­ nal assistance. Mr. Jon Bonk, member of the Board of Missions, spoke on the uniqueness of EMC missions and expressed surprise that so many

overlook the advantage of serving under EMC missions. He emphasized this advantage under eight points, all beginning with the letter “F”. Mr. Ben Friesen, Canadian Secretary, spoke of personnel needs. He believes, like Esther of old, that God has brought the EMC into existence for such a time as this. “Maybe God has made an appointment for you to be here tonight.” He challenged to obedience in being involved in EMC missions. The meeting closed with a testimony by former Nicaragua missionary, Wilbert Friesen, and prayer by Andrew Dueck. Total attendance was just over 50.

Visiting at the Missions evening at Pioneer Inn.

MARCH 20, 1987

MOSCOW -- The chairman of the Coun­ cil of Religious Affairs for the Soviet Union, Konstantin M. Kharchev, announced in a February 9 meeting that the Soviet Union wil allow the importation of 5,000 sets of the 17-volume Barclay Bible commentary (85,000) for use by church workers. This is the largest number of pieces of Chris­ tian literature ever authorized for importation by the Soviet Union. The Baptist World Alliance, Mennonite Central Committee and the All-Union Council of Evangelical Christians/Baptists (AUCECB) were elated by the announcement. “This is an act of God’s intervention,” telexed MCC Europe Secretary Edgar Stoesz. Alexei Bichkov, general secretary of the AUCECB, says the approval is “an example of the democratization (glasnost] now in pro­ cess” in the USSR. Paul Kraybill, Mennonite World Con­ ference executive secretary. Baptist leader Denton Lotz of Washington, D.C., and Euro­ pean Baptist Federation General Secretary Knud Wumpelmann of Copenhagen also at­ tended the February meeting with Kharchev. Kharchev, in agreeing to grant the license for importing the books, said that he has read the Barclay commentaries and found them to be a “totally religious” work that poses no political obstacles to importation. Kharchev added that the Russian Orthodox Church plans to print 100,000 Bibles this year. AUCECB leaders chose the Barclay com­ mentary series after reviewing several possibilities. Marvin Ziegenhagel of Mainz, Germany, did major translating on the pro­ ject. Henry Wiebe of Winnipeg, Man., now deceased: Herman Wiebe of Ohio; and Mary Raber, MCC worker in Europe; did editing. The manuscripts were also sent to an editorial team working in the USSR. In July 1985 the Soviet Union approved the importation of 5,000 volumes of the com­ mentaries. At that time long-time MCC worker Peter J. Dyck, who has been closely Involved in the commentary translation pro­ ject, spoke on the common temptation to smuggle Bibles into the Soviet Union: “Smug­ gling requires a willingness to deceive and lie. Smugglers believe that the end justifies the means. “We believe there is no biblical basis for a Christian to speak the truth and deal honest­ ly only with believers, but lie and deceive in dealing with unbelievers. (Our) open dealing with the authorities in frank negotiation was rewarded.” Fifteen of the 17-volume set have been completed. The final two volumes on Revela­ tion are still in production. The total cost will be over $500,000 when the commentaries have been printed and shipped. MCC and BWA are equally sharing the costs.

PAGE 9

English Teacher A private Christian High School requires a qualified English teacher for the 1987-88 school year. Interested persons should apply in writing to Henry Fast, Dean of Collegiate Division, Steinbach Bible College, Box 1420, Steinbach, MB ROA 2A0.

Parent/Child dedication at the Steinbach Evangelical Fellowship Church. PARENT/CHILD DEDICATION HELD

Steinbach EFC (Man.): “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint” (Isaiah 40:31). The Ladies’ Fellowship group has been having some wonderful meetings. On January 12 Louise Hiebert, Cathy Thiessen and Mary Anne Loewen reported on their missionary work. Joey Budala showed the ladies how to wear an Indian sari. Following the meeting the ladies took time to enjoy a taco salad. On February 9 Lorena Reimer spoke on the topic of how to look after both your physical and spiritual health. There was also a feature on colour analysis and wardrob­ ing by Marg Funk. On March 9 the topic was “Single Parenting,” what it is like and how the church can be more helpful and understan­ ding. The speaker was Cheryl Vogt. There was also a “Community Response” by Mary Koop and Rhoda Neufeld. They reported on what the community is already doing to help single parents and how we can become involved. Parent/Child Dedication was held on March 1 with seven families taking part in the service - Jake and Myrna Bartsch with daughter Venessa Flora and son Jerome Cornelio, Gerald and Hildic Friesen with daughter Carlee Anne, Herman and Linda Peters with daughter Victoria Christelle, Cornie and Helen Petkau with son Jason Javier, Dan and Helen Reimer with daughter Karissa Joy, Rod and Tina Reimer with son Brock Jamal, and Rick and Liz Siemens with daughter Crystal Dawn. Parent/child dedication involves Christian parents who carry a deep concern to train their children in the nurture and ad­ monition of the Lord. In the life of the church PAGE 10

this concern is highlighted in the parent/child dedication service. On March 8 our church had a farewell in the evening for Wes and Tina Dobson, who will be moving to Meadow Lake, Saskat­ chewan, where they will take on pastoral duties. Our prayers go with them. HOLIDAYERS VISIT MISSIONARIES

Fisher Branch, Man.: The Ladies’ Fellowship invited their husbands to a Valentine’s sup­ per social on February 17. The beautifully decorated church basement was a lovely set­ ting for the delicious supper catered to us. Later we had fun and laughter with some skits and games. A ladies’ group sang “Jesus, Rose of Sharon,” and Arley Barkman had a short talk on Psalm 148, stressing the need for love and affection in our homes. Holidaying and travelling was very prevalent in our church circle in February. Dan and Martha Reimer, with Kim and Karen, went to the Bahamas. Martha writes, “Dan, Kim, Karen and I had the privilege of visiting a missionary this winter. We went to Eleuthera, Bahamas to visit my brother, Harvey Plett. During the six days we were there we saw a bit of the work Harvey is do­ ing. We went to visit in some of the Baha­ mian homes. We also had the opportunity to see a vegetable garden which was covered with rock and the farmer had to dig holes bet­ ween the rocks to get the seeds in. Yet the garden was very productive. We enjoyed fresh tomatoes that were in season at that time. While in Eleuthera we also went to beautiful Harbour Island. Another highlight was visiting a Methodist church and fellowshipping with the Bahamians. The peo-

pie are very friendly and we thoroughly en­ joyed our visit.” David, Fenella, Adele and Jeff Plett went to Haiti, and Jeff Plett writes: “In February we had the opportunity to go to Haiti for ten days to visit our friend, Stan Wiebe. We went as a group of five young people. All of us had a very enjoyable time. Following are some things which impressed us: the nice, warm weather; the contrast in scenery from mountains to green vegetation to flat dry desert; the number of people on the streets, highways and even in the moun­ tains; the way people drive; the number of people who can fit into a tap-tap (taxi). Also it was interesting to note the number of mis­ sions and charities situated in Haiti. During our stay we visited a number of missions and an orphanage. The dedication and dependence on prayer, by the missionaries, was very impressive. Haiti is a very needy country and needs our prayers and help.” It was nice to enjoy fellowship with each other at a potluck dinner on March 8. We real­ ly notice how much the church family needs each other when the people are missing. May we continue to be united in the bond of God’s love. MISSIONARY RETURNS TO FIELD

Treesbank, Man.: Erna Plett has returned to her place of service for another term. A com­ missioning service was held for her on January 11. Pastor Melvin Friesen challeng­ ed the worshippers with the message “Prayer, the Power of Missions.” We had a special prayer session, with Erna Plett sharing some of her upcoming needs. Following the service, a fellowship lunch was shared by those who wished her the Lord’s blessing in her service for Him. John Pletts and Peter Reimers attended the regular MDS meeting at Newton, Kansas. Hearing their report, we realize there are many needs to be met and that the Lord works graciously in the hearts of men and women to help alleviate the needs and sufferings. THE MESSENGER

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Post-secondary students meeting March 12 at the University of Man. Harvey Kroeker (far end) speaking.

Students Hear Speaker on Biblical Hermeneutics A gathering of post-secondary students at the University of Manitoba campus saw Mr. Harvey Kroeker speak on Biblical Hermeneutics (interpretation). The meeting got underway around 3:30, with Mr. Kroeker distributing a paper contain­ ing his talk. He began by a personal testimony of his spiritual pilgrimage. He described some of his emotions; e.g., that Adam and Eve’s choice in the Garden of Eden forced the sin state on

him. After he became a Christian he had an overpowering thirst for God’s Word. He then went on to bring out a number of principles which helped him resolve some of his problems of interpretation. We should expect that God’s Word is counter to our own ideas many times because of two realities or facts. Our own natural bent or mind-set is sinful and against the truth (Rom. 3:9-18, Proverbs 14:12, Numbers 23:19). In other words, the human mind is

deeply committed to falsity and not the truth. That is the reason God says in Isaiah 55:7-11, “ . . . Let the evil man forsake his thoughts . . . For my thoughts are not your thoughts . . . my word will not return to me empty ... but will accomplish and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” Romans 12:1, 2 reminds us that to be guided or led of God requires total commit­ ment. If we want God to guide us in any area of our life, then every area of our life must be controlled by God, not only those areas that we select. Another fact to remember in Biblical inter­ pretation is that we have only part of the truth in the Bible. All of the Bible is dependable and God-breathed (2 Tim. 3:16, 17) but God has not given us all the truth there is. Thus, because this is so, there are many times the truth will appear illogical and even contradictory. He concluded with the statement that “the bottom line in Biblical interpretation is the ministry and witness of the Holy Spirit” (citing a number of verses) and “Let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” The session ended with pizza and a discus­ sion period. A total of some 16-18 people were present. D.S.

PLANNING FOR EMC 1987 NATIONAL CONVENTION UNDERWAY Brandon University is the site chosen for the 1987 national conven­ tion for the Evangelical Mennonite Conference to be held July 3, 4, and 5. Hosting such a convention outside of the Steinbach/Blumenort area adds challenging dimensions. The Ar­ rangements Committee has accepted the challenge and has already done much work and planning. The large beautiful air-conditioned Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium will be the location of all Conference Council sessions, the ladies’ meeting, babysitting, and public sessions. This auditorium is located on the campus of Brandon University and is the best facility Western Manitoba can offer. All the meals will be conveniently catered on the university campus. There is a giant barbecue planned for Saturday supper and a banquet-style meal for Sunday dinner, as well as other meals and night snacks. These meals are being offered at a reasonable price, with children’s rates as well. Tickets may be purchased MARCH 20, 1987

1

upon registration at the convention center. Rooms in motels in the vicinity are reserved. There are also one hundred air-conditioned, double occupancy rooms reserved for us at Brandon University. Children accompanied by parents are permitted to use sleeping bags in the same room at no extra cost. Linens and towels are provided for two per room. These dorm accom­ modations are close to all the conven­ tion activities and are available for reservation on the pre-registration form on a first-registered - firstreserved basis. Other lodging sugges­ tions will also be given in the pre­ registration material. The contact per­ son in each church will have more details. Babysitting (ages 0-4) is provided for all sessions beginning Saturday afternoon through Sunday evening. There are also activities and programs planned for children ages 5-12 Satur­ day afternoon and Sunday afternoon and evening. The Saturday evening session will be of interest to children and adults. The Conference Youth

Committee is planning a Youth Explo­ sion on Saturday afternoon. Since pre-registration is essential in planning meals. University lodging, and children’s activities, forms will be sent to each church in April. There is a contact couple in each congregation responsible to keep you informed and aid in the pre-registration process. These forms will also give general in­ formation on lodging, activities, meals and programs. The Arrangements Committee con­ sists of Jim and Joy Penner (chair­ man), Dave and Audrey Wiebe (hospitality), Abe and Gertrude Wolfe (promotion), Peter and Alvera Brandt and Dave and Lillian Sawatsky (children’s activities) and Abe and Norma Martens (food). The death of Brother Abe Wolfe is a great loss to the committee. Brother Abe brought much enthusiasm and direction to the work of the commit­ tee. All correspondence that was to be given to Brother Abe should now be redirected to the Evangelical Men­ nonite Conference, Box 1268, Stein­ bach, Man. ROA 2AO.

PAGE 11

DANIEL LEIBEL JANUARY 27 - JANUARY 28, 1987 Daniel Leibel, son of David and Maryann Leibel and brother to Monique and Brian, was given to us in birth on January 27, 1987 at 1:37 p.m. He went to live with our Lord at approximately 3:00 a.m. on January 28, 1987. We still physically grieve for our son, but the Lord has given us the strength to ac­ cept and handle his death, and our lives are filled with the comfort of his eternal, peaceful rest in heaven with God and joy in the knowledge that someday we will be with him. Daniel died as a result of a diaphramatic hernia, which let his intestines move into his chest area through this hole, pushing over his heart and lungs, leaving no room for the lungs to develop to maturity. (This is extremely rare.) He fought hard for life while the doc­ tors worked on him, during the airplane ride and his delicate operation, but his immature lungs were too hypoplastic to keep breathing on their own and handle the waste of carbon dioxide which affected his organs, resulting in his death. Daniel’s birth was an exceptionally easy one. I gave my fear and pain to the Lord, say­ ing, “We are weak, but He is strong,” during my labour contractions. 1 imagined Jesus breathing with me and holding us as a family in His arms. After Daniel’s birth and three at­ tempts to cry, 1 repeated over and over in prayer, “Please,” and dedicated him to God, finishing with, “Thy will be done.” In my testimony as a new Christian (since January 28, 1986) I told the story of five years earlier (after four years of marriage and still childless) how I lay in bed crying, pleading with the Lord, “If you let me have a child and become a mother, I will have as many children as you want me to!” Now I have been blessed with three. 1 still have two; He has one. We ask why all this happened to us. Are we to learn from it? Was it a test of our com­ mitment to see how faithful we’ve become, like Job and Abraham? How can God’s love for Daniel be more comforting than mine as a mother? I know through God’s Word that this is true, yet at that moment I had a hard time understanding this. Maybe we’ll never fully know the answers or reasons why, unless God decides to reveal them to us in time. Maybe we can eventually help others in their time of need. We’ve had little uplifting things shown to us. Daniel died on the first anniver­ sary of our commitment date to the Lord. Perhaps this was a test of that commitment. Also, that day in our devotional, 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 was our reading, with the heading “Request Denied - Grace Given.” It couldn’t have fit in better! “When 1 am weak, then I am strong” (2 Cor. 12:10) were the words I used in my labour. “My grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor. 12:9) gave us a new lift

PAGE 12

and peace and deeper faith. He makes no mistakes. The hurt is still there, but the Lord’s time heals and memories will not be forgotten. 1 pray a prayer which 1 also used as a breathing technique through my labor contractions and 1 prayed with Daniel and my other children, “Now 1 lay me down to sleep/ 1 pray the Lord my soul to keep/ If I should die before I wake/ 1 pray the Lord my soul to take.” I praise the Lord for all my blessings, my healthy children, my husband, choosing me to be the mother of Daniel, and life itself and salvation through Jesus Christ. Praise to you. Lord, I’ve been blessed!

I Am Your Mother

I'm your mother. You may haue known me only for a short while. When I saw you for the first time my love grew deep . . . You looked so small. All J wanted was more time with you, for you not to be alone.

You were mine, or so / thought, but only for a little while. You were really His all along, I was just borrowing you for a time. I just pleaded it could have been longer, I lost and won at the same time. Maryann Leibel

Position Open The Mennonite Foundation of Canada in­ vites applications for the position of Ex­ ecutive Secretary/Accountant, to work within the head office at Winnipeg. Qualifications for this position include membership in a constituency congregation; good understanding of the mission and ob­ jectives of MFC; strong organizational abilities and self-discipline; a knowledge of office procedures, accounting and stenographic abilities. Send resumd or enquiries to: Henry F. Wiebe General Manager Mennonite Foundation of Canada 201 - 9th Street Winkler, Manitoba R6W 1W5

i' '* *• ■

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I

JACOB D. FRIESEN 1907-1987 Jacob D. Friesen, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed on to be with the Lord, early Sunday morning, March 1, 1987, at the St. Boniface Hospital in Winnipeg. He had reached the age of 79 years, 8 months and 23 days. Dad was born to Jacob and Anna Friesen at Morris, Manitoba on June 10, 1907. He received his education in Rosenhof. As a teenager, Dad accepted Christ as his Saviour and committed his life to Him. In 1925 he was baptized and received into the membership of the Evangelical Mennonite Church of Rosenort. Dad married our mother, Katherine Kroeker, on July 5, 1931. They were mar­ ried for 55 years. Eleven children were born to them. Due to the early death of his father, Dad had to shoulder major responsibilities for his parents’ farm and family. Shortly after that, Dad and Mom began their own farming career, which they enjoyed until Dad’s forc­ ed retirement at age 62. In addition to farming. Dad also served as school trustee, barber, store manager, etc. Because of his commitment to Christ, Dad became involved in many church ministries: song leader, Sunday school teacher and Sun­ day school superintendent. In 1945 he was elected as deacon at the Rosenort Church. When the family moved to Mennville in 1952, he continued serving as deacon. He was also the interim church leader for more than a year. Except for some short illnesses. Dad en­ joyed reasonably good health until his first heart attack in 1969. Although subsequent heart attacks and other illnesses left his body weaker, his spiritual life blossomed. Dad was admitted to the Steinbach Bethesda Hospital for the last time on February 20, 1987. When his condition worsened, he was transferred to the St. Boniface Hospital. On March 1 he passed away quietly in his sleep. We look forward to joining him in his new home with our Lord. Dad, we remember you as a man who

THE MESSENGER

faced difficult times courageously. When your father was dying of cancer, you stood by him; when you lost much of the farm in the 1950 flood, you courageously picked up the pieces. You were a tower of strength. Dad, we remember you for your deeplyheld convictions. We also remember your will­ ingness to change as new insights and challenges came your way. Dad, you were a man of compassion. When people were in need, whether in the home community or in other lands, you gave generously of time and money. Dad, we remember you for your support to your children as they chose to serve the Lord in various ways and in several countries. You will be sorely missed by the family: Mom, by whose side you have stood so faithfully; and the children and grandchildren, who have always looked forward to your cheery welcome. Left to mourn his death are his beloved wife Tina, their children, Esther and Andrew Dueck, son-in-law Frank Barkman, Helen and Arden Thiessen, Pete and Betty Friesen, Doris Friesen, Margaret and Walter Reimer, Ed and Lil Friesen, Jake Friesen, Paul and Barb Friesen, Irma and Bernie Thiessen, Ar­ nie and Judy Friesen; 37 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; five brothers and sisters, Mrs. Anna Reimer, John Friesen, Peter Friesen, Aaron Friesen and Mrs. Evelyn Reimer; and four stepbrothers and sisters, Henry Reimer, Bernhard Reimer, Mrs. An­ na Penner and Mrs. Margaret Friesen, as well as in-laws, nephews and nieces and many friends. He was predeceased by his daughter Lydia, his parents, stepmother, ten brothers and sisters, seven stepbrothers and sisters. “To him who is able to keep you from fall­ ing and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy - to the only God our Saviour be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen” (Jude 24,25). The Family

BEVERLY JOAN PENNER 1940-1987 “He will never let me stumble, slip or fall. For He is always watching, never sleeping. He keeps His eye upon me as I come and go, and always guards me” (Psalm 121, paraphrased). Although we do not completely understand why it had to be, we acknowledge that God in His infinite wisdom allowed our wife and mother to go Home on March 2, 1987. Beverly Joan (Letkeman) Penner was born on March 26, 1940, at her parents’ home near Steinbach, Manitoba, the second daughter of John and Elisabeth Letkeman. She grew up and went to school in Ste. Anne. After receiving Christ as her personal Lord and Saviour, she was baptized by Rev. G.S.

MARCH 20, 1987

Rempel and accepted as a member of the Steinbach EMB Church. After completing grade 11, she moved to Winnipeg and was employed at Trans Canada Airlines as a keypunch operator. During this time she met Les Penner, the man with whom she would spend the rest of her life. They were married on November 5, 1960 at the Steinbach EMB Church by G.S. Rempel. In 1961 they made their home in Kola where Les and his brothers. Herb and Ed, established a lumberyard. During the next ten years, Bev and Les were blessed with four daughters. Bev took an active part in the church and community and used her gifts and abilities in service to God and others. She enjoyed teaching Sunday school and serving on various committees and boards. She liked to express her creativity in every aspect of her life. This was demonstrated in her personal appearance, her home and her cooking. Her guests always benefitted from the special effort she made to ensure that they received royal treatment. Her deep love for her family was shown in her self-sacrificing at­ titude and concern for their happiness. She was enthusiastic in her approach to life and actively participated with her family in various activities, such as skiing, biking and tennis. In August 1982 Bev discovered that she had cancer. In spite of the ups and downs of the next four years, she continued to live a life of fulfillment. Handicrafts, reading and sharing in family fun took the place of some of her previous interests. After various forms of treatment, it ap­ peared that her health was improving. However, after a sudden change in her con­ dition, she was admitted to the Virden District Hospital on February 27, 1987. Her family gathered together to be at her bedside until her death on March 2, 1987. During her life, and especially her last years, she was an example to us as a family of grow­ ing faith and love for her Lord. We will always remember how she remained so strong, if not physically, always spiritually. This strength ob­ viously came from God and it has carried on to us as a family. We thank God for working through her life and death, for His faithfulness to us in the past and for His strength for the present. We know He will be there for us in the future and we pray that He will continue to work in our lives through all that has happened. Many people cared for and supported our family over the last years. We express our ap­ preciation to everyone who prayed for us, en­ couraged us, and showed love in many other ways. May God richly bless you for tbe love you have shown. Among those who are left to cherish her memory are her husband Les; four daughters, Kim, Nikki, Jacqueline, and Daphne; Kim’s husband Bruce Penner and Jacqueline’s

fiance Curt Brandt; her parents, John and Elisabeth Letkeman; two sisters and one brother, Dick and Evelyn Friesen, John and Libby Wohlgemuth and Chester and Marie Letkeman. In memory of Bev’s appreciation for beautiful music, friends may donate to a memorial fund which will be used as she would have desired. Donations should be made out to the Kola EMC Church and designated “In memory of Bev Penner.”

The following poem was found in Beu's Bible: Life on earth is a transient affair just a few brief years in which to prepare for a life that is free from pain and tears where time is not counted by hours or years for death is only the method God chose to colonize heauen with souls of those who by their api nticeship on earth proued worthy to dwell in the land of new birth so death is not sad . . . it’s a time of elation, a joyous transition the soul’s emigration into a place

where the soul’s safe and free to Hue with God through eternity ■ Unknown

The Family

European Delegates Form Continent-Wide Church Growth Association BRUSSELS, Belgium (MNS)—Concern for the new “dark continent" of Europe in January led delegates from Belgium. Finland, France, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and West Germany to form an Association for the Pro­ motion of Church Growth in consultancy ser­ vice to national church growth associations in Europe, and help to establish national associa­ tions in countries that do not have them. “Increasingly. Europe is becoming a new irreligious dark continent,” organizers said. “There has been a massive decline in church attendance: an estimated 1.8 million people leave European churches each year. Europe is dominated by materialism and pervasive im­ morality. A declining and often irrelevant church has a largely discouraged leadership. Yet, we believe that Christianity is totally rele­ vant to Europe’s needs.” PAGE 13

Births KLASSEN — to Gordon and Sandra Klassen of Swift Current, Sask., a son, Nathan Andrew, on January 6, 1987. THIESSEN — to Danny and Margaret Thiessen of Calgary. Alta., a daughter, Jennifer, on January 29. 1987. KORNELSON — to Gerry and Elfrieda Kornelson of Calgary. Alta., a daughter, Priscilla Dawn, on January 15, 1987. NUSSBAUMER — to Joel and Joelle Nussbaumer of Emo, Ont., a daughter, Ruth, on February 15, 1987. UNGER — to Wendell and Iris Unger of Burns Lake. B.C., a daughter, Jocelyn Iris, on December 15. 1986.

HARMS - to Jim and Ang Harms of Steinbach. Man., a daughter, Adorae Susanne, on February 3. 1987. FRIESEN - to Larry and Deb Friesen of Steinbach. Man., a son, Mark David, on February 13, 1987. KOOP - to Ron and Brenda Koop of Steinbach, Man., a daughter, Erin Jesilyn, on February 27. 1987.

McCOY ■ to Victor and Sandra McCoy of Wabamun, Alta., a daughter, Susan Anne, on September 24, 1985.

REMPEL - to Gerald and Jessie Rempel of Swan River, Man., a daughter, Dorothy Elizabeth, on February 9, 1987. LEIBEL - to David and Maryann Leibel of Swan River, Man., a son, Daniel, on January 27, 1987 (died on January 28). KROEKER - to Garth and Betty Kroeker of Swan River, Man., a son, Stephan James, on February 14, 1987.

REIMER - to Dan and Helen Reimer of Steinbach, Man., a daughter. Carissa Joy, on January 10, 1987.

SIEMENS - to Rick and Liz Siemens of Steinbach, Man., a daughter. Crystal Dawn, on February 4, 1987. DUECK - to Gerald and Laura Dueck of Riverton, Man., a son, Darson Peter, on January 23, 1987.

Weddings KLASSEN-SOUTER: Robert Klassen and Wendy Souter were married January 24. 1987. with Rev. Gary Inrig officiating. The couple is making their home in Edmonton. Alta. KAVANAGH-MURRAY: Allan Kavanagh and Bev Murray were married at the Forest Heights Baptist Church, with Pastor Dave Thiessen of Calgary. Alta, officiating. The couple is residing in Calgary. Alta. REIMER - SCHMIDT: Elfrieda Reimer and Charles Smith of Chinook. Alta, were married at the Pineridge Fellowship Chapel in Hudson Bay. Sask, on October 4. 1986. The couple is making their home in Chinook. Alta.

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“/ knew I had been on holy ground” ETHEL: Forever healed of Cancer

“Anne, have you heard that Ethel is dying of cancer?” was the ques­ tion posed to me while I was visiting friends at Oddfellows Towers (Por­ tage la Prairie), where Ethel, too, was a resident. Needless to say, I was stunned. It was just a few weeks since I had seen her. And even though she hadn’t been well for years, she seemed her cheerful, usual self - never complaining. “Maybe you ought to visit Ethel at the hospital,” my friend further add­ ed. Yes, 1 certainly wanted to see her! Driving to the hospital later that day, I was constantly thinking of Ethel. How sick was she? Would I be able to talk to her about the Lord? And most important: Was Ethel really born again? During the years when I guided Bible study at the Towers, I always wondered about Ethel. If peo­ ple would get to heaven by Brownie points, Ethel would most certainly be at the top of the list: Being never married, she looked after her aging parents for many years - never complaining, but always cheerful, despite poor health. Always caring about people. “Dear God,” 1 was praying when I drove up at the hospital, “give me the right words, and please give us privacy ...” Upon entering the sick room, 1 spotted Ethel immediately. The nurse was working with her but when she saw me, she said, “Ethel, you have company. I’ll leave you two alone.” Ethel opened her eyes when I greeted her and she gave me a sweet smile. To my surprise, she soon broached the subject of death, by say­ ing, “Yes, it’s only a matter of time with me.” After breathing a prayer, 1 delved in . . . “Ethel, do you know Jesus personally? Has He come into your life . . . ?” “Oh, yes,” she interrupted me, “I’m ready to meet Him!” Reverberating with joy, I almost heard the bells of heaven ringing! “Oh Ethel, I’m so happy for you,” I breathed joyfully. When I looked at her, I thought her face looked like the face of an angel, almost at heaven’s door. I envied her. “Do you mind if I pray with you?” I asked softly. “Oh, that would be nice,” she smiled so peacefully. 1 was almost bursting with a mixture of joy, but also sadness. After hugging her goodbye, I turned to go. Sensing that this was our final goodbye on this side of heaven, I couldn’t resist one last request: “Ethel, will you say ‘Hi’ to Jesus for me?” “I sure will,” came her firm reply. Blinded by tears, 1 walked out of that hospital, as it were, on wings. 1 knew I had been on holy ground. Several days later (after I was back home at Rock Lake), 1 heard that Ethel had gone to be with Jesus right the next day. How happy 1 was that the Lord had guided me to see her! Yes, Ethel is forever healed of cancer - and is now rejoicing with her Saviour and her loved ones! Anne Klassen

THE MESSENGER

THIRD NATIONAL

EMC Youth Conference May 15-18 Caronport, Sask. C A /o N P O Vr 8 7

Jerry Proppe An all-Canadian musi­ cian, songwriter, per­ former and artist from Calgary, Alberta. Jerry’s easygoing, fun-filled stage presence carries a very intense and prac­ tical Christian faith. You’ll enjoy the full­ band sound produced by one man and his “electronic band.” His album Two Feet Deep, recorded in 1985, stresses the need forChristians to get “both feet wet” in a faith that demands nothing less. Jerry recently opened up at Whiteheart Concerts in Calgary and Edmonton.

Resource Staff Bob Black A fulfilled, energetic, organized and clearlydevoted follower of Christ, who com­ I municates a relevant ’ message for teens. Bob . r has served with Youth j for Christ for the past 15 { years, the last four as 9 ) Winnipeg Campus Life ’ Director. He is rated as J Canada’s #1 teen * speaker. Bob is a family man, married to Caroline, * and the father of Christy and David,

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Michael Hart High energy, intense and vigorous describe the character of another all-Canadian singer, songwriter and performer from Vancouver, B.C. Michael appeals to the imagination and | heart of his listeners | with a very strong, ver- I___ satile and smooth voice ■ -■ backed by an aggressive electric guitar. enhanced by a day-to-day faith in Jesus Christ.

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Seminar Leaders Grant Anderson - Relating to Non-Christian Peers The seminar focuses in on the challenge Christian teenagers face as they try to live “Christianly” amidst non-Christian peers. Our goal will be to develop a framework of Biblical principles and attitudes.

Cliff & Pauline Loewen - Dating Daze Dazzling expectations and confusing myths are given to us by society and peers. What are reliable principles in this dating daze and where do we find them?

Lee Bartel - Effective Song Leading at Youth Meetings A discussion of the purpose of singing at youth meetings and how various types of songs and leadership approaches can lead to effectiveness.

Harvey Plett - Is There Life After Graduation? What happens to me after grade 12? Where do I go? What will I do? Is a bachelor’s degree going to provide the necessary credentials for my job? Will there be a job for me? Will I be suited for a job?

Abe & Kathy Bergen - Time Out With God How can I channel the abundant springs of God’s Word to quench my thirst? Discover how to dip into practical devotional helps to make your relationship with God vibrant, challenging and on the cutting edge.

Jerry Proppe - Rock Talk An objective approach in dealing with the criticisms of rock music from a Christian sociological perspective.

Al Friesen - Building Self-Esteem What I can do to improve, to grow to feel bet­ ter about myself, and, in turn, feel better towards others, and towards the things of God?

Arden Thiessen - Fact or Fiction? Was there ever a couple called Adam and Eve? Was Jonah swallowed by a whale? Did Jesus really do and say the things we read in the Gospels? Does the Bible teach the truth? And what is truth?

Larry Friesen - Conflict in Relationships ■ Do I Have a Choice? All of us experience tension to the point of hostility in our relationships with other people, whether they be casual or intimate. None of us likes to live with conflict. What can I do to work towards resolving a relationship that right now is hurting or destroyed?

David Thiessen - Survival in Today's Sexual Jungle Here’s help in developing Christian thought patterns as they relate to sexual matters in the midst of a sexually seductive society. The Bible offers helpful guidelines.

Gus Konkel - The Peacemaker in a World of Traitors (Psalm 120) Gus Konkel - Knowing When Enough is Enough (Psalm 73)

MARCH 20, 1987

Jim Watson - Friday Night Fever What’s right? What’s wrong? Does the Bible offer any help in evaluating issues?

PAGE 15

From the Editor The Symposium “He that does not know his past, does not under­ stand his present and has no direction for the future” (J.B. Toews). “Life can only be understood backward. It must be lived forward” (Soren Kierkegaard).

I BELIEVE, generally, those who were involved in organizing the EMC history event, which took place March 13 and 14 at the Steinbach Bible College, would agree with the above quotes. Else why bother! The event went well beyond expectation attendance­ wise, seeing more than 100 participants at one of the sessions. This speaks well for the EMC constituency. The presence of some young people itself was gratify­ ing. The mood seemed definitely upbeat. I think the designers of this symposium felt the need for a rehearsal of the life and acts of some of our leaders in public life of the past. To my mind this was long overdue. We can only ignore the past to our own hurt, and make the same mistakes. As Kierkegaard puts it, we understand life backward and we live it forward. An appreciation of the leadership people of the past will prick the balloon of our arrogance, and it will cor­ rect many a misconception we may have had of the past. In addition to this, with the past to learn from, our theology in the present should benefit because we have this body of experience. It is easy for us, who now have the advantage of hindsight, to look with amazement at some of the issues with which they occupied themselves at church meetings, things that we have left far behind. There were, however, things about which they had great con­ cern; e.g., automobiles, dress, worldly innovations, etc. However, if they were overly concerned, I think we must say today we are under concerned. One thing which I believe we have maybe overem­ phasized is that our forebears did not teach assurance of salvation. One of the reasons may have been that they had such a great concern that all should finally be saved and that required a life of constant diligence. However, as one reads the old sermons which have been preserved for us (their sermons were written out in longhand) one gets an insight which sometimes might be different than popular opinion. Mr. Peter Baerg (1818-1901) is one example. Among the texts he preached on was Romans 10:13 (clearly a salvation message), where in his sermon he says the following: “ ... he shall be saved. In other words, he shall be declared righteous through faith and have peace with God. He lies under the wrath of God, but he becomes a child of God and the love of God is out-

PAGE 16

poured in his heart through the Holy Spirit. He is dead in sin but receives the life of God in his soul ...” Further on he emphasizes that “salvation does not de­ pend on man’s works, but on Christ’s atonement ...” Gerhard Schellenberg (1827-1908), another minister, in his sermon booklet #1, chooses as his text I Cor. 2:2, “For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.” Is there a more suc­ cinct, all-embracing passage to preach from? And, as it appears, this was for his initial sermon. The verse affords two main points and we find that that is also the division he makes: 1) Let us not think ourselves to be wise and all-knowing. 2) Knowing Christ is better than all other knowledge. He, of course, is very conscious, as a new minister, of the first part of this verse when he says, “Beloved brethren, I find myself totally unworthy and incapable for this important service to which I have been called.” In this connection he refers to Jeremiah and Moses in their initial call and I believe finds comfort in the Lord’s reply to them. Secondly, in going on he refers to John 14:6 where we see Jesus as the only way. He notes also Hebrews 7:19 (For the law made nothing perfect). On the other hand, a better hope is introduced, through which we draw near to God. He goes on, “When we first know Christ, that He is the only remedy through which we can be saved, which Paul is teaching and life witnesses to, we will soon say ‘Lord, what will you have me to do’ . . . ”

Mr. Schellenberg, in this sermon, is seen to have an amazing knowledge of scripture and quotes the Bible again and again to support his thesis. One wonders whether he possessed a concordance, or did he simply apply himself to the Word to the extent that he seems to almost have had a Bible school education? I think the fact that he quoted so much scripture had a direct bearing on his humility. He saw himself as un­ worthy and found the solution in saturating his message with the Word of God. And could he go wrong in do­ ing this? The symposium brought out the life and times of seven of our leaders of the past. It spanned a period of some 108 years. It was, of course, a selected list, and others could have been chosen. I believe that some of the speakers were chosen because of prior work they had done on some of these leadership persons; e.g., Clarence Hiebert on Peter W. Toews, Henry Fast on Abr. L. Friesen, etc. The list certainly is not exhaustive. I wholeheartedly support the prospects of holding another symposium in this our 175th year, to highlight another group of leaders of the past. A knowledge of their contribution to what we are today will certainly enhance our present. D.S. THE MESSENGER

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