The Messengers EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE
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VOL. 25 NO. 9
MAY 1/87
• Baptism and Filling In Acts • She lived with eternity in view • Feature: Mennonite Elementary School
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The apostle Peter was present at three occasions where the Holy Spirit was given: 1) Pentecost, 2) Samaria, 3) Household of Cornelius. In this first article in a series of two, the author goes on to point out the similarities in these three events.
The Baptism and the Filling of the Holy Spirit in the Book of Acts by Harvey Kroeker
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here are various terms commonly used in the Book of Acts concern ing the empowerment and ministry of the Holy Spirit in the lives of the Chris tian believers. These terms may be divid ed into two basic categories according to the ways in which these terms indicate their significance. The terms “poured out,” “came on” and “fell on” all suggest an ex ternal source or agency of the Holy Spirit on the life of the believer. Likewise the terms “receiving the Holy Spirit,” or “receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit” and the “giving of the Holy Spirit” also indicate an external source. The term “baptism of the Holy Spirit” is compared several times to water baptism in the Gospels. Water is an external agent in water baptism; it follows by implication that the Holy Spirit is also an external agent, at least initially. This diversity of terminology, often used interchangeably, suggests that they are non-technical in their sense and significance. There is another similarity between all the above terms in that the descriptions of how Christians receive the Holy Spirit in Acts are never repeated for those same individuals or groups. They receive the Holy Spirit once; then the Bi ble implies that they have the Holy Spirit and do not receive Him again. There are no repeat performances. The second category actually involves on ly the one term, “filled with the Holy Spirit.” This term describes a repeated ex perience. It also suggests an internal, as opposed to an external, relationship and reality. This term will be dealt with later. The discussion of the first category of PAGE 2
terms, describing an external agency or source, will first be limited to those three in Acts which involve the Apostle Peter, and then later the single event which in volves the Apostle Paul. The three events with Peter were at Jerusalem (Acts 2), Samaria (Acts 8) and Caesarea (Acts 10 and 11). A study of the
The description of how Christians receive the Holy Spirit in Acts are never repeated for those same in dividuals or groups. They receive the Holy Spirit once ... There are no repeat performances. events reveals certain differences especial ly in the way the rite of water baptism preceded (Acts 2:38 and Acts 8) or follow ed (Acts 10 and 11) the receiving of the Ho ly Spirit. In spite of these and other differences, there are at least six significant similarities that are true for all three events.
•Firstly, all three groups that received the Holy Spirit were separate and unique ethnic groups. The first group was Jewish Christians. Jesus himself had said, “Salva tion is from the Jews” (John 4:22). And so the first recipients of Holy Spirit baptism were all Jewish Christians. The second
group was also unique. These believers were all Samaritans, who were hated and despised perhaps more than the Gentiles. Samaritans could be accused of apostasy, since their forefathers had at one time been part of the people of Israel. Yet they had repudiated many teachings of the law, in that they had intermarried with Gentiles and also in that they set up their own place and pattern of worship as opposed to the sacrificial system which centered around the temple at Jerusalem. The third group was the Gentile believers with Cornelius in Caesarea. The significance seems to lie in the fact that the Lord Jesus wanted the Samaritans and the Gentiles to be fully accepted with the Jewish Christians in His church, without them having to become proselytes to Judaism as in the old dispensation. It also establishes the pattern and sequence of evangelism that the Lord Jesus set down in Acts 1:8, “ . . . you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Revised KJ).
•Secondly, in each one of these three oc casions all the Christians in the group at that particular place received the Holy Spirit. No one was left out as being too car nal or too immature, or not prayerful enough or not worthy enough. They one and all received the baptism.
•A third similarity arises when you con sider that there was no further discussion of that particular group anywhere in the Bible described as receiving the Holy Spirit THE MESSENGER
again. There was only one description of a Jewish Christian group “baptized” by or with the Holy Spirit, only one Jewish Christian group that was described as having “received” the Holy Spirit. After Pentecost it seems to be assumed in Acts and in all the following books of the New Testament that Jewish believers everywhere had received the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Now this is also true of Samaritan Christians after Acts 8, and it is also true of all Gentile believers after Acts 10 and 11. The one possible exception is in Acts 19 which will be dealt with later, And so the third similarity is the fact that each of the three groups experienced a unique event. And so Luke deliberately left out any reference as to when the Ethioplan eunuch or the Apostle Paul or the Philippian jailor “received the gift of the Holy Spirit” or was “baptized in the Holy Spirit.”
After Pentecost it seems to be assumed in Acts and all the following books of the New Testament that Jewish
dorsement of Peter, no doubt, was a powerful factor in establishing and maintaining the unity of the Church, •Fifthly, at each of the three events there was a powerful and overriding emphasis on the lordship and exaltation of Jesus Christ. Christ himself had claimed authority over the Holy Spirit when he pro mised to send him to his disciples in Luke 24:49, “and behold I am sending forth the promise of My Father upon you; but you are to stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high” (NASB). As Lord, he had commanded his disciples to stay in Jerusalem. Peter, on Pentecost, referred to the resurrection of Jesus at least four times; Peter declared twice that Jesus had been exalted to the right hand of God and that Jesus had been given the authority to send the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:33). Moreover, Peter said that God had made Jesus “both Lord and Christ” (Acts 2:36). Peter said that his listeners should be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38) before they would receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Philip the evangelist preached Jesus Christ to the Samaritans and before Peter
and John came from Jerusalem to be pre
sent at the giving of the Holy Spirit, the Samaritan believers had been “baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Acts 8:16). Peter, in his sermon to Cornelius, em phasized the lordship of Jesus Christ, “he is Lord of all” (Acts 10:36). Peter said that •The fourth similarity of the three events God had ordained Jesus to be the Judge was that an apostle was present. In of the living and the dead (v. 42), and that Jerusalem, Peter and the eleven apostles it was through Jesus’ name that everyone presided at the “pouring forth of the Holy who believed on him (Jesus) shall receive Spirit.” At Samaria, Peter and John were remission of sins (v. 43). While Peter was present, and at Caesarea, Peter alone of preaching this message centering on Jesus the apostles was there. It brings to mind Christ and His lordship the Holy Spirit fell the promise of Jesus to Peter in Matthew on the hearers. Later Peter reported to the 16:19, “I will give you the keys of the apostles and brethren at Jerusalem, on the kingdom of heaven; and whatever you shall event at Caesarea, using the following bind on earth shall have been bound in words: “And I remembered the word of the heaven, and whatever you shall loose on Lord” (Acts 11:16). Peter went on to say, earth shall have been loosed in heaven” “If God therefore gave to them the same (NASB). Luke, himself, may not have had gift as He gave to us also after believing this prediction of Jesus in mind but he did on the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that make sure that he gave us the information I could stand in God’s way?” (Acts 11:17). that Peter alone of all the apostles presid ed personally at all three events and so •The sixth similarity is the presence of gave official recognition that the miraculous signs at the three occasions. Samaritans and the Gentiles were fully ac- The miracles of the mighty rushing wind cepted into the Christian Church. This en- and the tongues of fire on the heads of the
believers everywhere had received the gift of the Holy Spirit.
apostles happened at Jerusalem. The miracle of speaking in tongues took place at Jerusalem and Caesarea. Admittedly, when the Holy Spirit was given to the Samaritans, it is not expressly stated that miracles did occur. However, it is reasonable to assume that some super natural and powerful visible phenomenon did take place. Simon, the sorcerer, in fact was very impressed at the laying on of hands by Peter and John for he attempted to buy this power. It is also stated by Luke in Acts 8:18: “Now when Simeon saw that the Spirit was bestowed through the lay ing on of the apostles’ hands ...” What Simeon saw was more than the act of lay ing on of hands for it says that he saw that the Spirit was bestowed by this act. Since it is impossible to see the Spirit Himself, it follows then that he must have seen a
At each of the three events there was a powerful and overriding emphasis on the lordship and exaltation of Jesus Christ. supernatural manifestation produced by the Spirit. That is as close as one can come to proving the last similarity. We might ask the question, “why the miracles at Pentecost?” What about the speaking in tongues and/or prophesying at the initial pouring forth on the Christian believers? The miracles were signs to at test to what Jesus had promised. Since the Holy Spirit was and is invisible, God wanted people to be aware of the new era of the day of the Lord which began on the day of Pentecost at the exaltation and glorification of Jesus Christ. Jesus had started to become Lord and the Holy Spirit was evidence of that fact. The miracles demonstrated this fact to the people in a visible and tangible way so that there would be no ambiguity. These miraculous signs also gave divine affirmation in a visi ble form to the inclusion of the Samaritan and Gentile Christians with the Jewish Christians into one body of Christ. (To be cont’d)
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, R0A2A0.
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.
MAY 1. 1987
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Mother hadn’t heard about the dangers of over population, or if she had she didn’t worry about it. She brought her even dozen into the world and I never heard her complain about the size of the family. We were all wanted. OUR MOTHER
She Lived With Eternity In View By C. B. Loewen ’T^aybe WJI'aybe she wasn’t made for this world. Her mind I’M seemed to t( be locked in with Someone somewhere else. Mother sang a lot - in her own way - and in this way expressed audibly her other-worldliness. Mother seldom got excited or was surprised. She seemed to always expect us even if we came to her door at three o’clock in the morning, bedraggled and dirty and tired from a trip through the mountains. She always found
She would always be looking for things to do in her own quiet way. She lived in the present but with eternity always in view. something for us to eat, especially fried potatoes and eggs or some leftovers which just happened to come in handy. Mother was not afraid of wrong diets. People were welcome to stay for a meal and they knew it. Mother hadn’t heard about the dangers of over population, or if she had she didn’t worry about it. She brought her even dozen into the world and I never heard her complain about the size of the family. We were all wanted. She also had many grandchildren. She knew them all and wanted them all. Mother hadn’t heard of the Joneses and if she had she would not have bothered trying to keep up with them. She loved simplicity and old things. She seemed to have a grateful heart and was content with a little. She seemed to be remarkably detached from covetousness, a strange attitude in the midst of a society that always wants to have more. Her Maytag washing machine was a prime exam ple of endurance in a household. Mother loved flowers, and gardening made her glad. She saw and heard birds as they entertained her during general household chores. She knew something about en joying the free entertainment of life. Mother was always picking up sticks and things on yards
- a probable by-product of picking up things children leave behind, or maybe a throwback to her younger years when the emphasis in life was more on making do with what one had than reaching out for things one thought he need ed. She would always be looking for things to do in her own quiet way. She lived in the present but with eternity always in view. Mother’s respect for spiritual leaders was well known in the house. One of her favorite ones was her Uncle Jacob Kroeker. Elders were to be honored. The church was a divine institution. Sunday morning worship was a must. When she walked down the aisle to a front pew she would already be singing with the congregation. She always wanted to serve the Lord some day - after she had raised eleven of her twelve to maturity and all were somehow involved in serving the Lord. All her children became Christians and all married Christian partners and her grand children followed the Lord in baptism as soon as they grew up. Five of her sons entered the Christian ministry. When we were yet unsaved she would quietly remind us of the imminence of death and Christ’s return and the absolute essentiality of being born again to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. She cried a lot. Her tears were prayers. Her main concern seemed to be our salvation in the here and now. Mother never taught us the danger of humility. She had never studied enough theology to know that humility was something we lost as soon as we thought we had it. She was convinced that a humble spirit would reveal itself in a simple lifestyle and a modest outward appearance. She didn’t seem to be overly concerned about outer attrac tiveness since she carried most of her beauty on the in side. She always covered her head for prayer. She seemed to understand simple Bible commands. Mother never learned enough psychology to know that she had to spend a major portion of her time playing with her children and catering to their whims and wishes. She was kept too busy baking bread and buns and patching pants and parkas and washing floors and furniture and wiping running noses and crying eyes to play ball with us.
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She even taught by example that work was virtue. Mother’s medical record was almost flawless. She taught us that time healed hurts. When we had frostbite itch in our toes she would send us out to walk barefoot in the snow. Liniment and wonder oil and a loving hand seemed to perform miracles of healing. She let us shift for ourselves a lot. We learned early to be answerable for our childhood
Liniment and wonder oil and a loving hand seemed to perform miracles of healing. capers. She never became emotionally off kilter if we skinned our knees or buttocks. Simple home remedies were applied only when absolutely essential. We all came through fairly well. Mother believed that her children were accompanied by guardian angels and I believe she was right, as usual. Mother is gone now. It is hard to believe, since she was around for so long. Even if we hadn’t seen her for years, she was always the same when we met, never older or younger, except now when 1 was with her for the last time on this earth. She was somewhat mixed up in her think ing and her talk. What she said still had meaning but it was hard to understand since she didn’t complete her sentences. She talked of love. She quoted scripture. She even talked poetically as though she wanted to leave some deep thoughts with us before she left. She talked of her unwor thiness and seemed worried that she might not be holy enough to meet her Lord. Then she would break out in thanksgiving when least expected. She held our hands tightly and didn’t want to let go. Mothers are like that. First they are so badly needed and then they need us. When we sang songs around her sickbed she would sing with us. She knew the melodies, although she sometimes put in substitute words. It didn’t really matter. Singing
MAY 1, 1987
seemed to do miracles for her. Mother stood with her life-partner for more than sixtythree years. Our parents seldom were separated, even for short periods of time. They understood each other even when communication was hindered by physical disabilities. They married young and showed us that marriage can work for a lifetime. We wish her well. Her tears, as we believe, have now been wept. Her loneliness has ended. She probably watches us now from a higher perspective and without the need of glasses. She didn’t really care for them anyway. Who knows what she sees? Or will she be so busy wor shipping Jesus that she will have little time left for us? 1 know better. She cares for every one of her widely scat tered family right now. And we shall meet again and know each other better than we have ever known. And we will be together forever. She is probably watching us right now and chuckling in her own quiet way. She surely sings with us because she
We wish her well. Her tears, as we believe, have now been wept. Her loneliness has ended. She probably watches us now from a higher perspective and without the need of glasses. knows the melody and she’s in the world that she always wanted to see. Who knows what she’ll be like when we meet her next? Will she simply greet us in her matter-offact way and make us feel at home without any frills or fancies? 1 don’t know but 1 believe I will know her and she will know me. It should be exciting, I’m sure, to be with Mother at the place she really belongs. In memory, Cornie
Grade 3 class at the Winnipeg Mennonite Elementary School, with Elsie Dyck as teacher. OVER 200 STUDENTS
Winnipeg Mennonite Elementary School
Mr. Len Barkman, principal of the Winnipeg Mennonite Elementary School, has been with the school since its founding in 1981.
by Dave Schellenberg
The Winnipeg Mennonite Elementary School (WMES), K-VI, had its beginn ing in 1981 in rented facilities at the Lansdowne School. A move to a school in the Westwood area on Columbus Crescent was made in 1982 where the school is still located. Beginning in 1981 with a teaching staff of one part-time and three full-time persons and 50 students, the school this year has a total teaching staff of 14 (some part-time), with 220 students. Six buses pick up children from Transcona in the east to Headingley in the west to Vermette in the south to North Kildonan in the north. Some 160-180 come in this manner. “Parents are encouraged to become very much involved in the school,” says Principal Len Barkman. Parents serve on the school board and run a very ac tive Parent Organization. They also basically run the library, are active as teacher aides and do office work. They also coordinate some of the fund-raising
for the school and help plan and organize social events. About 30% of funding for the school comes through fund-raising. Various means are used: churches, businesses, private individuals, craft sales. There is also an annual banquet and they have collections at concerts, of which they have two a year. Daily devotions are held in classrooms, 9:00-9:20. On Friday they meet as a student body for chapel where they might have an invited guest speaker. The students are very actively involved in providing music, skits, etc. Teachers, according to Barkman, must be committed Christian, should demonstrate a Christian lifestyle, be academically qualified and show a real interest in and a caring involvement with children. In other words, it is to be not just a job but a ministry. Their philosophy is that Christian teaching should come through in all subjects. French and German are taught as se-
cond languages. All pupils take both. Piano, voice, violin and cello are also taught. All students receive choir and music theory. WMES is an inter-Mennonite school. No one Conference has ownership. Staff comes from Mennonite Brethren and General Conference churches, as well as EMMC and EMC. Mennonite students make up just over 50% of the school population. A wide variety makes up the rest. Average cost per child for parents is $1400.00 per year. More children from
Winnipeg Mennonite Elementary School Spring Concert at the Grant Memorial Baptist Church in Winnipeg.
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A parent volunteer on Hot Dog Day at the school. -
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A grade 1 retigion ciass with teacher Bernie Baergen, at the Win nipeg Mennonite Eiementary Schooi.
one family reduces the cost per child. Where do they go when they’re through grade 6? Most go on to one of two Mennonite collegiates in the city, MBCI or Westgate. Although this school was founded and is operated by Mennonites, the school is open to children of other denominations. Students of nonMennonite background are equally
Letters Serving God in our generation I read with interest “Women of Faith in the 1980s” because I felt this article was directed right at me. I would like to make several com ments in response to this article. The point was made that to understand the meaning of faithfulness to the Lord in the 80s we need to be reminded of our roots. I agree that is a good place to start, but it must be taken farther. In the Bible we have many ex amples of women of faith who courageously put their faith into action. We must know where we’re coming from, know our beliefs, our values, our principles - and then we must apply them to the problems facing us in 1987. If I am to “serve my generation by the will of God” (Acts 6:36) as David did, I must con tinually ask the question, “What is a faith response to the problems that are around me?” 1 agree with the writer of the article that to be good wives and mothers, to respond to a needy neighbour, to bring recognition to the poor is important. If we are to truly be women of faith in the 80s, however, can we not broaden our vision and dare to make an im pact on the big problems facing this generation? Can my life and choices make any impact on the threat of nuclear holocaust? Can my MAY 1, 1987
Winnipeg Mennonite Eiementary Schooi aiso houses the Westwood Community Church.
welcome and enjoy the same privileges. The Winnipeg Elementary Schools Society, Inc. is a registered non-profit corporation. Membership is open to all who share the goals of the Society, upon payment of a membership fee. Mr. Len Barkman (principal), with his wife Faye, prior to coming to WMES in 1981, taught a number of years in Manitoba and spent five years in the
faith response to the millions of starving peo ple in the world make a difference? What does faithfulness mean in this age of advanced technology, of computers, of space programs? Can my life of faith help oppressed people such as oppressed minorities, oppressed peo ple living under dictatorships, oppressed women, or the oppressed mentally ill and mentally retarded? Can my life help bring us a little closer to world peace? Women in 1987 have never had it so good. Society and the church do not require us to limit our impact and influence like it once did. We are free to get educated, free to become knowledgeable, free to become involved and “serve our generation.” We are free to courageously face the problems of 1987 with faith. Greater freedom for women also means greater responsibility. “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required” (Luke 12:48). It is my opinion that to be women of faith in 1987, we women are going to have to go much beyond the problems of outer or inner beauty, cliques in the church, proper rules of hospitality, etc. We will have to courageous ly deal with and respond to the bigger pro blems facing our whole human race. Then we will be remembered as women of faith, who served our generation in the will of God. Irma Heppner Mahone Rt. 1, Box 55 Charlottesville, VA 22901
Bahamas at Windermere High School and three years at King’s College in Belize under the Gospel Missionary Union and EMC Board of Missions. Any families living in Winnipeg who are interested in a Christian education for their children may contact the school for more information, telephone: (204)885-1032.
Right On Thank you. Brother Schellenberg, for your article, “Sending Workers,” in the April 3 Messenger. You have said what 1 felt and observed (in Acts) while 1 was on the mission field. I would like to be in a church that wor ships, fasts, prays and then ‘sends’ workers as they did in Acts. Irene Kroeker Box 40 Rosenort. Man. ROG IWO CONTRIBUTORS: Harvey Kroeker lives at 299'/£ Kroeker Ave. in Steinbach, Man. He is a member of the EMC Board of Education and Publication. C. B. Loewen’s address is Box 106, R.R.l, Morris, Man. COVER: I thought this spring maybe it was time for another rural scene for our cover. It must have been the leading of the Lord when on a search for a seasonal picture last Monday I happened on this typical spring scene not far from Stein bach. I hope you like it. According to the news, farming does not seem to be too lucrative these days. Surely it must be true of the farmer also that “hope springs eternal in the human breast,” as he prepares his fields for seeding this year. D.S. PAGE 7
Straight Talk Mennonites and the Death Penalty The Social Concerns Committee invites reader response to this article. The committee is aware that not all will agree with the thrust of the article and expresses its respect for persons with a differing view. The article is submitted with the prager that it mag contribute toward the search for faithfulness on this difficult issue.
* * * * * A RECENT OPINION POLL report in Faith Todag (Canada’s evangelical newsfeature magazine) places Mennonites at 26 percent in support of capital punishment among seven denominations surveyed. This places them as the denomination which is least supportive of capital punishment. Given the historic Men nonite tradition of emphasizing the sanctity of life, the Lordship of Christ and adherence to the new covenant, one might expect even less support for the death penalty among Men nonites, consistent with sanctity of life posi tions on war, abortion, and euthanasia. What are some of the factors that lead Men nonites and others to support capital punish ment? The Scriptures most often cited are Genesis 9:6 and Romans 13:4. The Genesis reference mentions only one of numerous of fences in the Old Testament for which the death penalty is indicated. Some 17 other of fences punishable by death include adultery, accidental manslaughter, rebellious teenagers, striking a parent, etc. (Exodus 21). Consisten cy in following the Old Testament teachings would allow today’s governments to apply the death penalty for these additional offences. Where should the line be drawn? If Genesis 9:6 is to be taken as more than a restraining order, to a requirement, then God’s dealing with the first murderer seems strange, as God protected Cain’s life and for bade any human authority from killing him. Moses, David and others also deserved the death penalty for murder. Paul too breathed “threats of murder” on his way to Damascus (Acts 9:1). Romans 13:4 speaks of rulers not bearing the sword in vain, a reference frequently used in defence of capital punishment. Given the Romans 12 context, leading to chapter 13, one must also come to terms with the admoni tion to leave vengeance entirely to God. It is furthermore agreed by reputable Bible scholars that the term “machaira” for sword, mentioned in verse 4, was a small instrument and symbol of judicial authority not used for execution. The one direct New Testament reference
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to the death penalty is John 8:1-11. The ac cusers of the woman caught in adultery in voked the Mosaic law which called for her ex ecution. Jesus implied in his response that we are all guilty of sin and deserve death. “Let him that is without sin cast the first stone.” He did not condone what the woman had done, as he said, “Go now and leave your life of sin.” Jesus gives evidence of having placed clear limitations on vengeance, certainly short of the death penalty. In the Sermon on the Mount, Matthew 5-7, Jesus appeals to a new and higher ethic than what “you have heard it said ...” offered, by his “but I say unto you ...” He addressed specifically the “eye for eye and tooth for tooth” ethic (5:38, 39). There is evidence to suggest that the blood paid with blood, in cluding that of animals, in the Old Testament was a sacrificial and ceremonial emphasis which anticipated the sacrificial death of Christ. Hebrews 10 teaches that the sacrificial aspect of taking a life was fulfilled “once and for all” by the sacrifice of Christ on the cross. Christ died in the place of a murderer, Barab bas, thus closing off the Old Testament reason for the death penalty. While the ideals of Christ’s Kingdom can not be imposed on the state, should, however, Christians who are themselves com mitted to a higher ethic urge sub-Christian kingdoms toward the practice of a higher or lower ethic? As the salt and light of Christ to the world, should Christians urge the state toward a higher or lower ethic than Christlikeness? To have governments impose less severe punishment for murder has the back ing of restraint from both Old and New Testaments. There is the pro-capital punishment argu ment of deterrence. While controversy abounds on this, there is not conclusive evidence that the death penalty has had a net deterrent effect. Evidence points to the con trary. The lower murder rates are found in states and nations where the death penalty has been abolished. Recent studies show that the rate of murder in Canada has not increased since 1976 when capital punish ment was formally abolished. If anything, it has declined slightly. Murder of police officers and prison guards has intensified the call for the return of the death penalty. Such murders are deplorable and all reasonable protection for police officers and guards should be practiced. Statistics, however, document that such occupations have a safer rate statistically than those of firemen, miners, sailors and numerous other vocations where there is an element of risk. In October 1986 a national poll revealed
that 68 percent of Canadians called for the return of the death penalty, and 20 percent were opposed. That is about how it breaks down for the Canadian churches as well. If the Faith Todag survey is even close to ac curate, then the majority of Mennonites will respectfully counsel their MPs to vote against the return of the death penalty with a cor responding commitment and call for increased redemptive/caring ministries to families of murder victims and offenders. Menno Simons wrote in 1556, “It would hardly become a true Christian ruler to shed blood . . . and for a Christian to be party to having someone hanged on the gallows, put on a wheel, placed on the stake . . . would look somewhat strange and unbecoming in light of the compassionate, merciful, kind nature, disposition, spirit and example of Christ, the meek Lamb ...” Daniel Zehr for the Social Concerns Committee of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference April 1987
Teachers Wanted A private Christian school requires two teachers, one elementary and one high school, for the 1987-88 school year. Interested persons should apply in writing to Bill Siemens, R.R.6, Aylmer, Ontario N5H 2R5, or Ben Klassen, R.R.6, Aylmer, Ontario N5H 2R5.
Teachers Needed Community Bible Fellowship Christian School invites applications from certified teachers for grades 1 through 9. At present these grades are divided into three classes - grades 1-2, grades 3-5, grades 6-9. Please send resume to: Mr. John Beadle School Board Chairman Box 1630 Swan River, Man. ROL 1Z0 Ph. 734-4829 (days) or 525-4311 (evenings)
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Let’s meet in Brandon for the
July 3, 4, 5, 1987 Theme: “Evangelism” Speaker: Arthur McPhee Needham Heights, Massachusetts Author, radio speaker, professor, pastor and church planter.
Inspirational sessions: Saturday, 7:00 p.m. - “Transformation” Sunday, 10:00 a.m. - “Inevitably Evangelists” 2:30 p.m. - “Say it With Love” 6:30 p.m. - “The Making of a Disciple”
Art McPhee Sessions will be held in the beautiful air-conditioned Centennial Auditorium in Brandon. For accommodation details check the convention brochure. The deadline for motels is May 15. If you choose to stay in the University dorms, please register by June 15.
Special Convention Features YOUTH Saturday, 1:30 - Youth Explosion 7:00 - “Transformation,” featuring music and drama 1
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LADIES Saturday, 2:00 - Drama, “Who is My Neighbour,” and a presentation by Frieda Nickel, “Evangelism from our house to yours” CHILDREN Cages 5-12) Saturday, 2:00 - Recreation Sunday afternoon and evening - special programs. Babysitting available during ladies’ session and during each convention session.
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REGISTER NOW Make it a family event! If you are unable to attend the Saturday session (s) we would encourage you to drive in for Sunday. No pre-registration is required for this.
Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium
MAY 1, 1987
Evangelical Mennonite Conference Box 1268 Steinbach, Man. ROA 2A0 Tel. (204) 326-6401
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Messenger News FAMILY SEMINAR HELD
A Golden Age group meets monthly at the Mt. Salem E. M. Church. Irsiis saib lainthf'J'ay Ibr tnilh aiiJ Thr lifr
A men's group with a special number in song at the Mt. Salem missionary conference in January.
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A baptismal service at Mt. Salem (Aylmer) E. M. Church recently san six people baptiz ed. Left to right (front): Pastor John Loenen, Mary Krahn, Theresa Loewen. Judy Loewen. Back: David Dyck, Rick Loewen, Tina Loewen. On right is Deacon Bill Siemens.
GOLDEN AGERS MEET
Mt. Salem, Ont.: The Mt. Salem E M. Church has a monthly Golden Age Fellowship group meeting, with some 30 participants. They meet on the second Thursday of the month. The order of the day includes sing ing. special numbers, a sermonette and lunch. PAGE 10
Morweena, Man.: February 8 was the day we welcomed Melvin Plett into our church upon his baptism and testimony of faith. May the Lord be with you, Melvin. March 26-28 several of our members at tended a counselling seminar at Grant Memorial Baptist Church. It was part two of a three-part series on counselling. Part one was held last fall. After the seminar they rushed home to take part in a family seminar that began Saturday. March 28, with two ses sions back to back Saturday evening and four more sessions on Sunday. Allan Friesen, pastor of the Fort Garry EMC, spoke to us on all aspects of family liv ing with special emphasis on the young family. Throughout the weekend, Al stressed the importance of firm parameters. A child will always test the boundaries and he wants to know that they will hold. The Saturday sessions dealt with what our system of beliefs tells us and how it affects our children. He also stressed the need for families to do things together, not only for entertainment but for learning purposes as well. He said we should have family projects; e.g., a family might befriend another family or individual. Following are some of the parenting helps he left with us on Sunday: - Children are very capable of understan ding instruction at a very young age (1-1 Vz) - How to deal with negative attitudes - The need to support the child’s teacher - Giving young people Christian heroes and models to look up to - The spiritual, mental, physical and social needs of our children - Understanding age characteristics The Sunday evening service vyds a general session where Mr. Friesen talked to the young people on how to witness, giving personal ex amples from his life and a guideline for young people to follow iri daily devotions. We thank Al Friesen for the informative, inspiring and timely presentation on the fami ly. We all went home wiser and with many helpful insights gleaned from the seminar. The leadership seminar on April 9-10 was attended by several couples as well. Congratulations to Alvina Reimer who designed a cover for the church bulletin. It shows a profile of the church and the name on the front and the pastor’s name and phone number with space for sermon notes on the back.
Pastor John P. Loewen is the leader. Meetings take place in the church. A missionary conference held in January had Mr. C. B. Loewen as speaker. A recent baptismal service saw six young people baptized. THE MESSENGER
The Roseisle youth group at their winter retreat at Nutimik.
REVIVAL MEETINGS HELD
Roseisle, Man.: The youth group has had several special events in the past months, in cluding a skating party in January after ex ams were over, their annual curling bonspiel on February 28, and a winter retreat at Lake Nutimik Bible Camp the weekend of March 13-15. The retreat was definitely a highlight. The weather was beautiful, so many activities were enjoyed outdoors. The guest speaker was Orville Janz, CSSM National Director. Special music was provided by Mark Withers poon and Gloria Russel of Glenboro. The married couples of the church had a night out together on Valentine’s Day. They went skating in St. Vital Park, followed by supper. The week of April 8-15 was a busy but very rewarding week. Revival meetings were held with Harold and Irene Schacher from Bawlf, Alta. They work with the Canadian Revival Fellowship. God ministered to our congrega tion through these messengers. Many found a new and closer relationship to God and we thank Him for speaking to us.
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Mr. and Mrs. Orville Janz were the guest speakers at the Roseisle youth retreat.
MISSIONARY CONFERENCE HELD Arden, Man,: Arden is welcoming spring! We have been enjoying the beautiful weather which has set the trees to budding and has brought out crocuses in abundance. Flowers have been adorning our church for the last while, thanks to some people in our congregation. On March 15 we had our monthly Chris tian Endeavour meeting with Neil Rempel (GEM) giving us a report on his work in Austria. Food and fellowship followed. A very special event took place in our church on March 29 when Herman and Lyn da Loeppky became members. We have MAY 1, 1987
nie Loewen family from Paraguay. Then for both Sunday morning and evening services, Dave Eidse gave us an idea of what his work is like in Mexico. In the evening Alvira Friesen (Panama) also gave a report. I just hope that we will remember to continue to pray for these and other missionaries in the future. Some time has also been spent outside of the church building, but as a Christian group together. On March 8 Margaret Plett, with the help of Leona Rempel, took the Junior Sun day school class to Neepawa to go bowling. Then on April 2 the young people’s group took a trip to Brandon to enjoy part of their spring break roller skating. A Friday morning service started off our Easter weekend. Then on Sunday the young people led the service. Each one took part in some way, with the message by our pastor, Jerry Plett. This weekend (April 26) we as a family plan to travel to northern Alberta to attend the graduation of our brother and son, Dwight Plett, from Peace River Bible Institute. We are looking forward to the trip.
already learned to appreciate them and their four children. Both Herman and Lynda shared their testimonies and, among the many Bible verses they chose, were Colossians 3:12 and I Corinthians 10:13. From April 3-5 we had our annual mis sionary conference. The meetings this year were slightly different in that we had five speakers instead of one main speaker. Ben Friesen, the Canadian secretary for the Board of Missions, had the message Friday evening and Linda Penner gave a report on her work in Paraguay. On Saturday we were blessed with a message, report and songs by the Er-
May 15-18 Pray for the Administrative Committee (EMC Youth Committee):
Sheldon Giesbrecht Cliff Loewen Stan Hamm Roger Plett Russ Loewen Registrar: Angela Harms PAGE 11
HOPE FOR FAMILIES AND INMATES Landmark, Man.: His message was right on target Sunday morning, April 5, when he spoke on “Encouragement” at the Prairie Rose Church. That is what the people would receive in the nine following sermons. April 5-12, Author John Drescher is also a man of prayer. Thirty Christians were asked to covenant to pray daily and fast one day a week, starting thirty days prior to the meetings. He requested these names so that he could pray with them and for them as well. The speaker had a unique twofold ap proach each session. First it was a timely talk on the family, then an encouraging message from God’s word. From a rich storehouse of learning and experience. Brother Drescher
J Baptism at the Riverton church. Lett to right: Ed Doerksen, Vicki Enns, Dave Doerksen, Lowell Friesen.
FAREWELL Riverton, Man,: It would be simply fantastic if we never had to say goodbye to our friends along life's way. but that would seem a bit unrealistic. These times of farewell are sad and even though it is a common experience, we will never look forward to or enjoy them. But. we can grow mentally and spiritually through these sad experiences. Gilbert and Anne Sperling, with their two sons. Craig (2'/z) and Scott (8 months), are a family we will sincerely miss. Since they ar rived in Camp Arnes, where Gilbert and Anne were actively involved, approximately three years ago. they have given our church many positive experiences. We appreciated their willingness to par ticipate in church responsibilities and we especially enjoyed their frequent special numbers. With a family, busy camp schedule, plus extra responsibilities to an active church and community, it is not hard to understand that their time was spoken for. yet they never
Gilbert and Anne Sperling and sons Craig (right) and Scott (left).
PAGE 12
seemed hesitant in carrying any of these responsibilities out to the fullest. On February 8, at our monthly participa tion night, we got together for a farewell for this special family. They will be missed by all, and their positive, energetic and encouraging attitude will be hard to forget. How thankful we are that the Lord made it possible for us to become friends and grow together even for such a short time. We know that their family and friends will be happy to welcome them back, and we are glad that we had the opportunity to get to know them. We, the congregation of Riverton Gospel Chapel, wish Gilbert and Anne. Craig and Scott the very best as they make their home in their hometown. Dalmeny. Sask. May the Lord bless you! Following the Lord in baptism is a very im portant decision for an individual. Making a personal decision for Christ is marvelous, yet stepping out and making that decision public is a decision only a mature Christian with the sincere desire to follow God’s command ments, can make. Not only is this a time of growth for the candidates but those around who reflect on their own baptism or of their baptism to come. We were very pleased that four individuals chose to make that decision and join the church as members. Dave Doerksen. Ed Doerksen, Lowell Friesen and Vicki Enns were baptized on March 15 after giving their personal testimonies. Pastor Del Fast officiated. We as a congregation want to stand with you, pray for you and encourage you in every area as you take this positive stand. May God be near you and may you be open to His leading.
John Drescher.
shared many a helpful, vital truth heartening to the hungry listener. All the adult Sunday school classes joined the auditorium Sunday morning to hear him speak on “If I Were To Start My Family Again.” Many a loved one will be the beneficiary for months or years to come, as a result of these times together with John M. Drescher, a man of God who has a loving heart for the sinner and the family. Chaplain Dick Friesen and wife Dora had it coming. They had invited a priest and some inmates to our church for an evening service known as Missions Night, on April 26. The guard stayed back watching the exits, and Rev. Pinet sat in the very front pew together with his “brothers” (the inmates). After Don Carriere finished telling of his ex periences at Stony Mountain Penetentiary without God and then with God, he turned to Brother Friesen (who was the emcee) and said, “I love this guy.” Brother Friesen had listened to him and often prayed with him, especially on one occasion, “when he had been on the hit list." Rev. Bernard Pinet, a prison chaplain for fourteen years, and chairman of the prison chaplains of Manitoba, went on to call the church to “hospitality . . . welcome strangers THE MESSENGER
I
Dick Friesen (left) and Ftev. Pinet.
into our homes and community.” “It is a sad reflection on our society when a kid has to break the law to get attention.” “A person who calls himself a Christian cannot ignore this.”
Book Review Bontrager, Edwin G., and Showalter, Nathan D. IT CAN HAPPEN TODAY! ($8.35). Herald Press, Scottdale, PA. Co. 1986 (with Teacher’s Manual). Teacher’s Manual, $20.95. Reviewed by David Wiebe, pastor of Kirkcaldy Heights (EMC) Fellowship, Brandon, MB. If you like short books, here's a good one! Adult Sunday school students may even get close to finishing this book. But for its short ness, it says a lot. It has some excellent statements for stirring discussion. The authors pose some ever-new questions about "... still trying to learn about the dynamic that caused the phenomenal growth in the early church” (p. 9). What happened? How did it happen? And can it happen to day? With such questions they search through the events of the book of Acts. I was blessed! The authors have the nerve to highlight the basic spiritual principles, such as prayer, the Holy Spirit, power, unity, witnessing and follow-up. Yet at times I was uncomfortable with their deductions. Some statements seem too wide and sweeping, like this one, “Power was a keyboard of the day,” referring to Acts chapter one (p. 15). Survival and what to do seem to me to have been the pressing issues. On witnessing, they present a very good MAY 1, 1987
Don Carriere and his mother and sister.
He went on to “congratulate this Christian community for your contribution to Stony and the Remand Centre. We need Rev. Friesen in jail,” he emphasized.
Lome Plett shared experiences that he and his wife Ingrid, and even their boys, have had at Stony as active members in the Open Gir cle ministry for almost ten years.
challenge. From Philip’s story, they learn that he listened to the Spirit, was inquisitive, knew the Word of God, and then how to clarify commitment. They challenge, “Even falter ing words are powerful tools when the Spirit is at work. ‘When I am weak,’ wrote the great missionary Paul, ‘then I am strong’ ” (p. 31). What are we Christians to be doing? The authors say, “As churches in mission, we must be winning persons, leading them to conversion through Christ .... If we are not, we must question whether our Chrisian faith is valid even for ourselves and our own children” (p. 36). I was concerned about this view of the church, until later in the book they include worship. “Mission flows from worship ...” (p. 59). What motivated the apostle Paul? The authors say, “He was spurred on from city to city because of the great spiritual need he felt in these centers of civilization” (p. 77). This seems to me a rather weak and one-sided view of Paul’s motivation. Of himself, Paul says, “1 am obligated . . . Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel ... the trust commit ted to me . . . Since then we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men . . . For Christ’s love compels us ... ” (Romans 1:14; 1 Corinthians 9:16, 17; II Cor inthians 5:11,14). The book as a whole has good background material on the events of Acts. It has sharp challenges for us as individuals and churches. The Teacher’s Manual breaks each lesson into points and illustrations, mak ing it very useful. Any person or group that studies this book will be blessed and challeng ed. Perhaps in this way, God could motivate us to carry the torch with Paul and his com panions, and open the door to the many out side of the church and God’s kingdom.
WRITERS NEEDED
(Scottdale, Pa.) — Writers are being sought for new junior-age club materials. The sixyearclub program is being developed joint ly by the General Conference Mennonite Church and the Mennonite Church. Qualifica tions required for writers are: experience with children, grades 3-8 (preferably in clubs or non-formal educational settings), writing ex perience, and an Anabaptist theological orientation. Expertise in one of seven major club areas is also helpful (self-understanding, social skills, creative expression, basic living skills, spiritual awareness and disciplines, service, and nature awareness). Send resume and writing samples to Virginia A. Hostetler, managing editor of junior-age clubs, Men nonite Publishing House, 616 Walnut Ave., Scottdale, PA 15683. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Virginia A. Hostetler (412) 887-8500
COOK REQUIRED
MENNONITE COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE In vites applications for the position of HEAD COOK. Preference will be given to applicants with dietary training, institutional cooking ex perience, and a Christian commitment. Duties commence August 15, 1987.
Please apply to: Allan Dueck, Principal MCI Box 250, Gretna Manitoba ROG OVO Ph. (204)327-5891
PAGE 13
MRS. HELEN LOEWEN 1910-1987
ABE WOLFE 1928-1987 Abe Wolfe spent his adult life serving the public as a mechanic and garage owner. He worked at Winnipeg Motors from 1953-1970. He then purchased his own service station where a friendly, jovial chat usually accom panied the services provided. Abe and Gertrude were married on Oc tober 22, 1950. In 1960 he rededicated his life to the service of the Lord in the Bergthaler Church where he and his wife served as a deacon couple. He was active in the Moose Lake Sunday School Camp, the Christian Businessmen’s Association and the Union Gospel Mission. Most recently Abe was in volved with the “Why Encounter,” a group seeking to contact each household in the Win nipeg area in October 1987. When they moved to North Kildonan in 1971 they began to fellowship in the Braeside E.M. Church; becoming members and later being chosen as a deacon couple. Abe is survived by his beloved wife Ger trude, three children and their families, Ron and wife Bev and their children Jonathon, Matthew and Sarah; Bernice and husband Stan Irvine and children Tyler and Ashley; and Michael. The funeral service was held on March 2 at the Braeside Church, with Pastor John Stoesz officiating. Al Cooney, a friend, delivered the eulogy and the music was rendered by Harry Harder, Henry Thiessen and John Penner. At the graveside service, Erwin Kroeker reminded family and friends of our blessed hope in Christ.
Pastor Required The Endeavour Fellowship Chapel is looking for a full-time pastor. For details contact the church board chairman, Peter Steppan, Endeavour, Sask., Ph. (306)547-5439, or Edwin Friesen at the Conference Office, Ph. (204)326-6401.
PAGE 14
“I have fought a good fight, I haue finish ed my course, I haue kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall giue me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that loue His appearing" (Il Timothy 4:7. 8). On Thursday, April 16, 1987, at approx imately 7:30 a.m., my dear wife and mother of our family, Mrs. Helen Loewen, was called home to be with the Lord whom she loved and served. She was born Helen Siemens at Rosenort, Manitoba on November 12, 1910 and passed away at the Steinbach Bethesda Hospital, reaching the age of 76 years, five months and four days. On August 2, 1931 she was baptized upon confession of faith in Jesus Christ by Bishop Jacob B. Kroeker and was received as a member of the Rosenort Evangelical Mennonite Church of which she remained a faithful member until the time of her death. On November 12, 1933 she was united to me, Jacob B. Loewen, in holy matrimony, with Bishop Jacob B. Kroeker officiating. This relationship was enjoyed for 53 years. She was predeceased by her parents Peter H. and Susanna Siemens; by three sisters, Agnes, her twin sister (the former Mrs. John B. Loewen), Justina (Mrs. Peter T. Rempel) and Susanna (Mrs. Henry F. Brandt); by two brothers, George W. Siemens and John W. Siemens. Left to mourn her departure are husband Jacob B. Loewen of Rosenort; two sons, Percy with his wife Elizabeth, and Bill with his wife Ruth, both of Winnipeg; seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; one brother, Peter W. Siemens; three sisters, Mary (Mrs. Cornelius T. Friesen), Anna (Mrs. John D. Harms) and Elizabeth (Mrs. Abram F. Friesen), many nieces and nephews. Helen was a very dedicated, efficient mother and homemaker. Flowers and gardening were a delight to her. Also among her particular interests were taking an active part in quilting blankets for MCC and in short trips visiting relatives and friends. The obser vance of their 25th and 50th wedding an niversaries were special highlights. Although Helen enjoyed a life of generally good health, she did undergo gallstone surgery twice. Since late last summer she suf fered frequent fatigue but it was not until about two months ago that her health took a definite turn for the worse. She was admitted to the Steinbach Hospital on March 19. Two weeks later her ailment was diagnosed as cancer of the liver and the intestines. Her condition rapidly deteriorated. Relatives began to take turns at bedside vigils until her last breath was taken. As family we wish to express our sincere appreciation to the hospital and medical staff for their tender care. We also extend our gratitude to all those who prayed for and with Helen, for the many comforting and en
couraging words and deeds of kindness. We firmly believe that the prayers of fellow believers minimized her physical pain. May the dear Lord reward you all! - The Family
In Memoriam In memory of Mom, who luas uery special to me. Passed away May 19, 1985.
A Mother’s Farewell To Her Children When I must leave you for a little while. Please do not grieve and shed wild tears And hug your sorrow to you through the years. But start out bravely with a gallant smile; And for my sake and in my name Live on and do all things the same. Feed not your loneliness on empty days. But fill each waking hour in useful ways. Reach out your hand in comfort and in cheer And I in turn will comfort you and hold you near; And never, never be afraid to die. For I am waiting for you in the sky! With many fond memories, Julie Friesen Wawanesa, Man.
Weddings UNRAU-SCRIBA: Mark, son of Clive and Margaret Unrau of Sidney, Man., and Sandra, daughter of Fred and Denise Scriba of Wanham. Alta., were manied on August 31, 1986. The wedding took place in Peoria. Alta., with Jim Hertzler of Wanham. Alta, officiating. The couple is making their home in Sidney.
GIESBRECHT-HILDEBRAND: Stacey Edward, son of Ed and Linda Giesbrecht of MacGregor, Man., and Sherry Leann, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wilfred Hildebrand of Winnipeg, Man., were mar ried on April 18, 1987. The wedding took place at the Morrow Gospel Church with Ed Stoesz of Winnipeg officiating. The couple is making their home in MacGregor.
THE MESSENGER
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OM team at church in Matamoros, Mexico.
Witnessing Experience Wendy Thiessen, Heron EMC. was in Mex ico with Operation Mobilization to take part in their Christmas Crusade. This is a report she gave about her experience:
***** When our big chartered Greyhound bus left Three Hills, Alta, on December 16, all 45 of us aboard were excited about what the Lord had in store for us this Christmas. Our excite ment was dampened when we had problems with the bus on the 18th and had a two-day delay in Monument, Colorado. The Lord led us safely to Brownsville, Texas at 6:00 a.m. on December 22, just in time for breakfast at 7:30. We all stayed in Brownsville, the men at Primera Iglesia Bautista (First Baptist Church) and the women at the Mission Outreach Centre. We were all glad to be there since we had eaten all our meals on the bus, slept on the bus, and even got used to pushing it to start it several times a day. We began the crusade as a tired group and ended that way also. Our schedule consisted of three conference days, three evangelism days, and two Sun days with our churches. We had Christmas morning off. That afternoon we had a special open air meeting in Matamoros, Mexico and then the all-night prayer meeting — oh, what a blessing! There were approximately 200 OMers. We
MAY 1, 1987
were all divided into groups of six and each group was assigned to work with a different church in Texas or Mexico. I had the joy of working with Iglesia Menonita de Cordero (Mennonitc Church of the Lamb) on the Texas side, but had several afternoons and evenings of street evangelism/literature distribution blitzes in Mexico. Each group was assigned to cover their church’s area in doorto-door evangelism. Wow, what an ex perience! Praise the Lord, He gives boldness and strength to His children! The Lord did a tremendous work through this ministry. The young people in my church were a joy to get to know. PTL, most of them could speak English (90% of their neighbourhood could not)! But, just like young people in Canada, they also have struggles. Forty per cent of the church young people were stuck in the drug habit, and thus were difficult to work with at times. Praises go to our power ful God who can transform their lives. 1 was blessed to get close to several precious Mex ican youth in that church and look forward to future correspondence with them. We were able to participate in the young people’s Christmas party and also Sunday worship ser vice. Their young people also joined us in door-to-door outreach — a new experience for them (they were also our translators). The Spanish people are very open and receptive to the Gospel, which was exciting. Brother Joe (a Mexican) and 1 went door to door and at the first house the angels rejoiced as a lady gave her life to the Lord. What a joy! The OMers of Mexico with whom we worked were a great blessing and example to me — seeing their expressions of praise to the Lord, hearing them pray, and just seeing their zeal in serving the Lord. The Mexican culture Street evangeiism.
r
Wendy Thiessen.
was also something to get used to, but the Lord is faithful and He undertook in every situation. I could say much more, but I’ll close with saying that several hundred souls were brought into the fold in those ten days — through crusades, open air meetings, doorto-door evangelism and street evangelism. Literature distribution played a major part in the campaign, and we trust that the seed has been sown in many souls so the believers there can reap the harvest. Through this experience the Lord has opened my eyes to the need of evangelism at home and has given me a vision of the lostness of souls that 1 meet every day. I will be held responsible for them on the Judge ment Day — what an awesome responsibili ty each one of us has! What are we doing about it? 1 challenge each one of you to a greater love life with the Lord, and thus a greater outreach program. I’ve grown to love the Spanish people, their language and even their culture, and thank the Lord over and over again for giving me the opportunity of sharing His life and love with those people. Oh, what a difference He’s made in my life! That is why this past Christmas has been the most special and rewarding one in my 23 years. The Lord knew I was seeking for more in my walk with Him, and through this cam paign He faithfully answered my seeking. “I’ll never be the same again!” Jesus murio por mi. Creo en Jesuscristo. El es mi unico Saluador, Gracias por su atencion. Dios le bendiga. Wend^ Thiessen PAGE 15
From the Editor 1987 Annual Convention
Why Brandon? For the 1987 annual convention planners, the choice of Brandon as a site must have meant a whole new step of faith. Thirty-six times the annual convention has been in the Steinbach/Rosenort/Blumenort area, and almost primari ly Steinbach and Blumenort. Something can be said for choosing the Rosenort area in the beginning years. But it didn’t take place there for long, mainly because of lack of adequate facilities, 1 suppose. Winnipeg has come under consideration but it never took place there. I believe it was felt that the change would be too slight. Speculation has not been lacking, though. An am bitious proposal in 1979, which would rotate conventions between Steinbach, Morris, Caronport and Winnipeg, never got off the ground. I think we were still locked too much into a narrow provincialism; it wouldn’t work. But something has changed. We are now breaking away from an old established pattern and taking a giant leap of faith to an area some 200 miles west of our roots, Brandon, Man. Will it work? 1 would like to think, though, that the 1979 proposal at the annual convention to rotate maybe had something to do with it. Maybe a seed was planted which is now bearing fruit. So, as far as 1987 is concerned, at least, Brandon will be the site of this year’s annual convention. Reasons? 1 think we could attempt to list some.
•At last we’ll have an air-conditioned building for annual convention. This alone would be reason enough to drive at least half that distance.
•It has resulted in far more extensive planning than heretofore; there were so many unknowns. It called for more extensive advertising to make people aware of the change. This was good. •There will be, I understand, a special effort made to make people - adults, youth, as well as children - feel welcome. This in itself is already good. •The cost of travelling itself is a factor. You might say, but others will now make that up by travelling farther. This is true, but at least some, for once, will be getting a break, which is about time.
•Some of you will become aware, maybe for the first time, that there is an EMC church in Brandon! •To switch the hosting and involvement responsibilities to a different Region, I think should also be a real blessing, even if it means extra work for that Region. •It will, even if in a small sense maybe, give some of us a new vision of the larger EMC body which extends all the way to B.C. in the West, Creighton, Sask, in the North and Aylmer, Ont. in the East.
•For all of us, Brandon ’87 will be a new experience, at least in that all activities will take place at one location, the University of Brandon campus in Brandon, Man. And I believe that could be a big advantage. The die has been cast. We hope you will be there to help make this year’s annual convention a real success. Shall we see you there? D. S.
•Foremost I think would be the fact that for a good number of years now, in fact the last 25 years, the EMC has been bigger than what we find in southeastern Manitoba. Yet people have been faithfully travelling here for annual conventions all this time.
•To pull in new people. I think we will expect many more participants from Regions outside of Regions 5, 6, 7 and 8 to be present this year. By the same token, there may be fewer from Regions 5-8. •It will be more of a fellowship with people living and eating together. Most people will not be able to absent themselves so easily and drive home in between. People will stay in dorms or motels.
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THE MESSENGER