The Messenger June 23, 1989

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TheMessenger EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE

VOL. 27

NO. 12

JUNE 23/8' 23/89

bv Harvey Plett On Father’s Day I had the privilege of preaching in my home church. I spoke on the theme “Communication in the Family.” On the way home our son and I were discussing the sermon. In the conversation he said, “You know, Dad, I don’t remember ever hearing a sermon on the role of the father or the man in marriage.” He went on to say, “We hear quite a bit about the role of the woman and motherhood. Why do we not hear more about the role of the man?” 1 conceded rather quickly that we probably had em­ phasized the role of the woman more than the role of the man. So I invite you to think with me on the role of the man.

SOME HALF TRUTHS It is a truism to say that we all have our expectations about the role of man in marriage. Included in these expectations are a number of half truths or, as I like to call them, myths. The first myth' that is still alive and around is that HOUSEWORK IS WOMAN’S WORK. It is true that the domestic work is largely in the realm of the woman. A number of sugges­ tions could be made why this is so. For example, motherhood in­ volves very much the domestic dimension and motherhood is the domain of the woman. But it is incorrect to presume that the kitchen is foreign territory for the man of the house. It is not. The man can be very handy with the dishtowel or broom. As a matter of fact, this was an ex­ pected procedure in the home where I grew up. The boys (there were four sisters) had to help wash floors on Saturday, polish shoes and perform many other household duties. I know, that just because I had to do it, that does not make it necessary for everyone. But not only did we boys help in the house, the girls also helped with chores and field work, which is largely considered to be the male domain. 1 suggest that to refuse to help in the house because 1 am a man and because it is woman’s work is simply not realistic. In the home we function as a team and we help where it is necessary, even though we have our major areas of responsibilities as males and females.

HUSBAND AND FATHER HAS THE ABSOLUTE LAST WORD Many times we hear of how, in the past, the man was the ruler in the home and family. His word was not questioned, only obeyed. In the community where 1 grew up this would be a caricature of the way things were. 1 am aware that this was the case in some homes. But in many homes it was not so. I wonder whether at times this straw-man is being put up to ridicule the male. In our homes of the past, the man carried considerable power.

'1 use the word myth but I do not mean an untruth. Rather I mean that the expectation is a half-truth; that is, it has truth in it but is not totally true. Thus 1 use half-truth and myth interchangeably in this article. PAGE 2

But it was frequently modified by Mother and excercised in tandem with Mother. Our agricultural pursuits required teamwork and many of our fathers did a super job of functioning as head of the home. I suggest we think twice before we too readily accept the half-truth that our forefathers were tyrants. Let us examine the facts carefully before we jump to conclusions.

GENDER DOES NOT AFFECT THE ROLE WE FULFILL IN MARRIAGE Unisex is in vogue today. There is a tremendous amount of literature and debate today on whether gender plays a role in deter­ mining roles. The idea that family roles are asexual is a pipe dream, a myth. When God created the human race he created two humans that were equal but different. One was male and one was female. Here is a fundamental difference that is there by virtue of creation (see Gen. 1-2). To deny it or ignore it is done to our hurt. The Bible warns about disregarding the differentiation of the sexes. The prohibition for a man to wear woman’s clothing in Deut. 22:5 is based on the concern not to confuse or remove the distinc­ tion between the sexes. 1 Cor. 11 also has as its basis the concern to maintain a distinction between the sexes. James Dobson in his book. Love for a Lifetime, underlines the distinction of the sexes and its impact on role function when he lists some 11 fundamental differences between the male and female. The long infancy of the human being and the inability of the male to produce milk play a significant role in determining role function. The long infancy suggests the need for Mother’s con­ tinual presence and care on the one side and the providing­ protecting role of the father on the other. The importance of father­ ing and mothering by the real father and mother is futher substan­ tiated by the findings of such psychologists as Piaget. John Peters in his books. Lectures on Piaget, reports on studies done by Piaget on the question of substitute mothers. Piaget discovered mother substitutes may be satisfactory for the first six months of life or so but on the social level the real mother is need­ ed from the age of seven months. Infants then need their own mothers for security and socialization or a variable extent of per­ manent emotional and intellectual damage will occur. In a study entitled, “Family Styles of Fatherless Households,” printed in Journal of the American Academy of Child Psychiatry, 11, 1972, pp. 238-248, it is reported that parent-child relations are most hurt in fatherless children — those who have been without Father for two years or more. Most of these children were either psychotic or retarded with a fatalistic view of life. What a challenge to responsible fatherhood! To say gender does not affect my role in the home is not ac­ curate. The evidence suggests that it is practically impossible to replace either Father or Mother. Both serve a unique role and substitutes just won’t do. THE MESSENGER

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we as fathers are given the responsibility of seeing to it that our children will be brought up in harmony with God's word. EQUALITY MEANS I CAN DO ANYTHING MY WIFE CAN DO There is a secular view of equality that suggests that unless a man can do exactly what a woman can do or vice versa we have sexual discrimination and inequality. This is a secular feminist definition of equality. Not only that, but then we will never be equal, for there are many things my wife is better at than I will ever be. I will never be able to mother a child. In my estimation, the above myth does not take an adequate view of two facts. First, it seems to assume that gender plays no role. Secondly, it fails to take note of the fact that the Bible sug­ gests the sexual distinction will only be removed after Christ returns (Matt. 22:30). Until Christ comes there will be marrying and giv­ ing in marriage. The sexual roles continue and as long as they con­ tinue they will accord privileges and restrictions on my role and function. Even redemption and the experiencing of the “powers to come” now does not remove this distinction. Here we again have a significant factor that affects the father role.

SOME SPECIFICS We have briefly examined a few half-truths as they relate to the role of man in marriage. Let us now become a little more specific. What are some of the unique functions of the man in marriage and family? The first important role of the man is to love his wife as Christ loved the church (Eph. 5:25). That is what it means to be a hus­ band. This very familiar passage almost loses its impact from familiarity. Let us be on guard for this. The love asked for in Ephe­ sians 5 asks the husband to pay the ultimate price for his wife — to love as Christ, who gave Himself for the church, loved. We are to give ourselves for our wives even if it includes giving our lives for them. This love for our wives is unconditional. That is, we are to love the unlovable as we love the lovable. We respond in love regardless. Here we find non-resistance in the most intimate relation in life and it is required of the man to fulfil that obligation. In this way we will overcome evil with good in our marriage and home. Gary Smalley in his book. If He only Knew, argues that in­ evitably marriage problems arise when the husband does not love his wife as he should. A man is to love his wife and thereby create an environment where she will be able to respond as only a woman can. This kind of love will also create an environment where children will develop into men and women who will also love and establish good Christian homes. As a husband the man is to be loyal to his wife. She can utterly rely on him even when she is wrong. He will not justify her wrong but he will help her find the more right way. Not only is the husband loyal, he is considerate and faithful. He may meet prettier women but he has made his choice and com­ mitment and in this he is content.

A husband needs to encourage his wife to develop to the highest of her potentiality. This means first of all encouraging her in her role of motherhood. During each pregnancy she senses his pride and support. As she takes on mothering he helps where he can to make her role easier to fulfill. As the children leave he encourages her to find new outlets for her abilities. This may involve taking courses at some school, it may be doing volunteer work and it may be continuing her ministry at home. The man is also the father of the children. This means he takes on the joys and privileges of fathering. Please remember, father­ ing is not the same as mothering. As Father he first of all models commitment to Jesus Christ. As decisions are made it becomes clear that what the Bible teaches is important for a decision. Faithfulness to the Word of God in times of temptation again helps the children to walk the path of righteousness. Eph. 5:4 says, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” It is worthy of note that the exhortation to teach the children is given to the father. We as fathers are given the responsibility of seeing to it that our children will be brought up in harmony with God’s Word. Of course, we cannot do it alone. We work in close harmony with our wives. We are in a sense the high priest in the home and will have to give account for what we have done in this area. This is an awesome task, but it is ours. This nurturing of our children is done by nurturing a spiritual atmosphere in the family - children catch the spirit of the parents more easily than they do what they are told: direct teaching in life circumstances; reading the Bible and other literature to the children from the time they can first understand it until they want to read themselves; taking them to church and Sunday school and staying there with them — they need this exposure to the community of faith. Finally, there is the headship, provider, protector role. These overlap though each focuses on a different aspect. Headship is tak­ ing leadership and responsibility for what goes on. It is not being an arbitrary ruler but rather leader of the team. As head you are sensitive to the need of each member and with your wife you seek to determine what is best for the family (1 Cor. 11: Iff; Eph. 5:21ff). Motherhood seems to require a provider and protector. God commissioned man to till and keep the garden and declared that after the Fall we would eat our bread by the sweat of our brow. Thus the primary responsibility for bread on the table rests on the man. As protector, he, together with his wife, takes care of what the media brings into the home. Lines are drawn and reasons are given. When necessary the man protects his wife and family from dangers, be they physical or spiritual. Brethren, the Lord has committed to us the leadership in our homes. It is no easy task, but with the grace of God we take on the responsibility joyously. ■

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 Menno Hamm, 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 Board of Education and Publication, Box 1268, Stein­ bach, 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.

JUNE 23, 1989

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Letters

in charge of this guest house till the end of July and we’d love to see you here. Neil and Susan Wiebe Washington, D.C., USA

SERVICE IS REWARDING We appreciate receiving The Messenger here in the eastern USA. We moved from Akron, PA in the first week in May and are now in Washington, D.C. until the end of June 1989. The Messenger will be forward­ ed to us by MCC {unless you want to send the next few copies directly here). When we left Steinbach last August we had no idea what it would be like to get away from the “home town” but it has been a very in­ teresting, exciting and rewarding experience to be involved in service to others. We now have a much better idea about so many others who have gone away to be of service in another part of the world. We miss our children, our friends and our church and we appreciate so much the contact that we have been able to have this past year. It seems to us that we have come away from the con­ stant striving for materialism and we now can see that we can do very well without that kind of competition. We can now see the need for the local church and friends to keep in touch with peo­ ple who have gone out for service or have moved away. We would like to make all the EMC members, who plan to come to Washington, D.C., aware of a fine Christian home away from home. Make reservations at the address or number below - you will love it. We are

INTERNATIONAL GUEST HOME 1441 Kennedy St. N.W.

Washington, D.C. 20011 (2021726-5808 A homelike atmosphere, maintained by the Mennonite Church since 1967. Four miles directly north of the White House. $20.00 per person - includes tea at night and breakfast in the morning.

THE MESSENGER Goes to Sunday School For the past tour months our adult class has been using The Messenger as our Sunday school material. Generally we discuss the lead article on the Sunday just after receiving the Messenger and then we concentrate on a number of articles the next Sunday. There is always enough to discuss and we have found that the experience has made us appreciate the Messenger much more and has allowed us to become much more familiar with Con­ ference events and people. At the beginning of each class we have a short prayer session, using the prayer calen­ dar as a guide, and we often use poetry or readings from the Messenger as part of this session or at the end of the class. Usually someone in the class knows the missionary mentioned in the prayer calendar so we ask him or her to share some information about the missionary and lead in the prayer. A

A FATHER'S DAY TRIBUTE A tribute to our father, Jacob I. Dueck, who passed away in 1957, after being bedridden for more than a year due to a stroke. Dear Dad; Today, on Father’s Day, we, your sons and daughters, pay tribute to you! Even though you are long gone from us, we still dearly love you. We remember you as a loyal, kind, and compas­ sionate father. You sacrificed in so many ways to bring up your family in a Christian way to adulthood. Now when we ourselves get old and gray, we realize more and more what you have meant to us. You were faithful and loyal to your wife and family in all the 47 years you lived together. In the era that we live in now, it’s so often not the case. Those pioneering years meant hard work to provide bread for the table and clothes for your family. But we have never been in want. Even though you couldn’t say to us, ‘Now listen, since you all worked so hard at home and school. I’ll take you on a vacation, either to Hawaii, Florida, or wherever you want to go,’ we still enjoyed our life on our big spacious farm. The trilling of the birds, the croaking of the frogs and the bleating of new little lambs were music to our hearts and ears. You did take us three or four times a year to visit our grandparents, ten miles away - a long way to drive in those days, in winter with the big bobsled and in summer with horse and buggy. We were all snug and warm under the blankets, with heated stones at our feet. You were the only

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highlight of the last month was your visit to our class when you shared your experiences as editor. May God bless you in your work. We would like to encourage you to con­ tinue to publish articles that are relevant to our lives, even though at times controversial ideas are expressed. Our best discussions have been occasioned by articles on business, peace, missions, family violence, and acceptance of “outsiders.” (We agree with Ed Friesen that we should put that word in cold storage.) - As a result of our experiment with the Messenger we will no longer take it for granted. We now realize what a vital part it is playing within the Conference and in the Kingdom of God. We encourage you to take full advantage of the potential of this ministry for teaching, evangelism, nurture, and inter­ Church communication. “Sharing the Messenger” Adult Class Fort Garry E.M. Church Frank Moses Ed Loewen Roy & Adina Doerksen Don & Lorraine Giesbrecht Sid Reimer Erna Dueck Daue & Merna Thiessen Bob & Verna Reitmeier Al Friesen Peter & Wilma Doerksen Doug & Pat Cattani Allan Maronese Dennis Brandt Kostas Chantziantoniou Glen & Betty Klassen

one who couldn’t tuck his feet under the blankets and warm his toes. You had to have the reins in your hands and guide your team of horses. Often, when 1 peeked from under the blankets, I saw you slap your hands and stomp your feet to keep warm. Since there were no weather forecasts in those days, we could never know what the weather would be like coming home, even though the day looked bright and sunny in the morning. Dad, you always brought us safely home. A belated thank you. You also yearned for a good education for your family. Since you yourself were a schoolteacher, you often helped us with our schoolwork or Sunday school lessons. You also loved to sing and were a song leader in our church for many years. Very often when we were tucked in bed we would listen to you practicing your songs or trying to learn new ones. Dad, you were a man of a quiet nature and few words. But your words, when spoken, were words of wisdom. You taught us the truths of the gospel and rejoiced with us when we turned from our sinful ways and accepted Christ as our Saviour. Thanks, Dad, for your Christian influence in our lives. Even to this day, the faith that you taught us still lives on in us, your children, your grandchildren and great­ grandchildren. Thank you. Lord, for the parents you gave us. May we also be found faithful in teaching the word of God from one generation to the next, till the Lord returns. In the name of the family/, your loving daughter Gertie

THE MESSENGER

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Straight Talk -AIDS

Part 3 of 3 by Menno Kroeker

The most recent “new” issue related to the topic of sexuality is the fatal disease known as AIDS. This disease, which derives its name from the first four letters of the phrase that describes it (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), involves the breakdown of the body’s ability to fight infection. It destroys the cells that have that function and leaves the body at the mercy of infections of all kinds. In its active state the disease is always fatal and there is, at this time, no known remedy. While there is nothing essentially sexual about the disease itself, the transmission of AIDS occurs more readily in sexual relations and has been most marked by its high proportion of occunence in homosexuals. For this reason AIDS has become very much a sexual issue and therefore something that the church is called to respond to. By the end of 1988 there were 2,000 cases of people with AIDS (PWAs) in Canada. Of this number, 82.6% were homosex­ ual or bisexual males. The fatality rate for PWAs is 100% four years after diagnosis. When we consider that worldwide there are an estimated five to ten million human immuno-deficiency virus (HIV) carriers, of which one to two million can expect to develop AIDS, with an eventual mortality rate of 100%, then it is obvious that we are dealing with a disease of epidemic proportions. Since AIDS is transmitted primarily through blood and semen, the measures to prevent acquiring the disease lie in insuring that there is no transfer of these body fluids from an infected person to another. It is by now widely recognized that sexually the best preventative to acquiring AIDS is chastity in sexual relationships. While some are hereby being “scared into chastity” it is also becoming obvious that sexual indulgence has become so much a part of our society that it will not be easily arrested even by

TEACHERS NEEDED The CBF Christian Day School in Swan River, Man. is in need of two teachers for the fall term, one for the kindergarten class and one for grades 1-3. Apply to: John Beadle Swan River, Man. ROL 1Z0 Ph. 525-4311 or 734-3464 (work) or Lorrel Scales Box 220 Swan River, Man. ROL 1Z0 Ph. 734-2593

PASTOR NEEDED Pastor needed for the Mennville EMC, Riverton, Man. For information contact Milton Friesen (204) 364-2357 or Edwin Harms (204)

378-2810. JUNE 23, 1989

the threat of acquiring a fatal disease. Educationally the current emphasis is very much on promoting “safe sex” as a preventative measure. Supposedly if you acquire sufficient knowledge about the use of condoms and question the past history of your sexual partner it is possible to have your cake and eat it too. A recent article in one of our national magazines dealt with this topic and readily cited sexual chastity as the only safe response to the threat of AIDS. At the same time the writers held out no hope that this could become a widespread response to the problem. Our TV screens are bringing us “The New Facts of Life” as an educational response to AIDS. It is noteworthy that there is really nothing new about this at all but it is a tacit admission that the old morality, which was outlined in our Bibles all along, does, in fact, make a lot of sense. The spread of AIDS in Canada, as we have noted, is very much a sexual matter because the vast majority so far involve practis­ ing homosexuals. It may be tempting, in that context, for Chris­ tians to label AIDS as God’s just judgement on the sexual sin of our society. I know at least one Christian doctor who is strongly of that opinion. While there may be much truth in that view, it is not an option to treat all cases in that way. A recent edition of Faith Todai) carried the testimony of a Christian hemophiliac who, through no fault of his own, acquired the AIDS virus through a blood transfusion, which occurred before the present screening process was instituted. So AIDS is already producing innocent victims and it will not do for the church to take a selfrighteous and judgemental approach to this deadly disease. Our response should not be determined either by the relative guilt or innocence of the person involved. In that respect the ministry of Jesus models for us a compassionate response to anyone in need regardless of that person’s past history. Several churches have already confronted cases of AIDS and have gone through traumatic times in trying to chart a compas­ sionate course for their response. As one such pastor put it, “We hope to model the words of Jesus, T was a stranger and you invited me in. I was sick and you looked after me ... I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did it for me.’ ” Hopefully those words will temper our response as well. "A Service of the Social Concerns Committee"

The Mennville Christian School requires

A PRINCIPAL AND A TEACHER Room 2 (grades 4-7) Room 3 (grades 8-10) Salary commensurate with ex­ perience. Housing available. Send resumd with references to the chairman. Mennville School Box 358 Riverton, Man. ROC 2R0 Fax No. 376-2953

CONTRIBUTORS: Harvey Plett, EMC Moderator, is a member of the Prairie Rose EMC Church in Landmark, Man. Gertie, author of A Father’s Daii Tribute, page 4, is Mrs. Pete L. Friesen of Morris, Man. Menno Kroeker and his wife, Dorothy, live in Rosenort, Man. Kaylene Plett (Prairie Rose) has been serving at the Black Forest Academy in Ger­ many for almost 4 years. She plans to return to Canada in July.

Camp Staff Required Beaver Creek Bible Camp COUNSELLORS, NURSES AND SPORTS DIRECTORS for four one-week camps during the month of July

Contact: Dennis Kroeker Box 370 Riverton, MB ROC 2R0 (204) 378-5507 or: Roger Plett (204) 378-2413

COVER: This issue features the Portage EMC Church, which was started 30 years ago by former Messenger editor, Dave Schellenberg. From top left: 1. Early anivals on Sunday morning. 2. Portage is on the Trans-Canada Highway. 3. The sanctuary was comfortably full. 4. Carole Plachner with the Kindergarten 5 class. 5. A hymn of worship by Alvin Iverson on his accordion. PAGE 5

Missions

Kaylene Plett

Debbie Sigafoos

GERMANY

A Great Experience! BFA - What is it? In wondering what 1 could tell you about life at the Black Forest Academy I concluded that a word from the kids themselves might be appropriate at this time. So here are a few thoughts on what B.F.A. has meant to some of my girls: Debbie Sigafoos (10th grade, has been here four years) - “The things I like best about B.F.A. are that the teachers care about your grades and try to help you when you need it. The staff is always there when you want to talk and, although they are in authority, they are also your friends and you can have a lot of fun with them. I’m glad there’s a B.F.A. because I have no idea where 1 would be without them. I love it here and 1 don’t want to leave!” Ricky Horneman (German-born, has been here four years, a senior) - “B.F.A. means; - a place to grow spiritually because of the pressure you are under - how to make friends, how to treat them and how to keep them - getting along with all types of different peo­ ple and getting to know more types of personalities - learning how to be a blessing or encourage­ ment to others - a familiar atmosphere to return to after vacation - a place of friends. “B.F.A. has taught me maturity in a lot of areas of my life. It has been a great blessing to me and 1 have lots of memories. Yet I am glad to graduate and start a new life somewhere else.” Judy Fischbach (9th grade, has been here two years) - “Hi! My name is Judy Fischbach, and this is my second year here at B.F.A. Even though these two years have been quite difficult academically, they’ve also been a lot of fun. I really enjoy dorm life. It’s always nice to come back to the dorm after a long, hard PAGE 6

Ricky Horneman

Judy Fischbach

day at school; it’s even nicer if you find a let­ ter in your mailbox! Although dorm life can be fun, it can also get a little frustrating. Sometimes living with the same people can be tiring, and not everyone likes everyone. Also, there’s always A LOT of work on everyone’s mind. The school makes sure to keep us good and busy!” Barbie Lacey (a senior, here three years, from France) - “1 do not regret having come to B.F.A.; 1 have learned so much here that 1 probably wouldn’t have if 1 had stayed in French school or correspondence courses. Not only is it challenging academically, but be­ ing away from my parents, I have learned to trust more in Christ and be more dependent on Him to provide in every way. “It has been hard to be away from my fami­ ly because we’re very close. Yet, if one comes

Barbie Lacey

here with the right attitude, he’ll see that the atmosphere here is great. Most of the other kids here are M.K.’s too and they’re for the most part very understanding. And the staff members are very caring and patient {not like French public school!). All of these things have made it easier for me to be away from home. Some of the friendships that I’ve made here 1 know will be life-long ones (and even beyond). B.F.A. is not perfect (nothing is), but being here has been a great experience.” We all, who have lived and worked at B.F.A., are changed people for it, and we thank God for this vital alternative for mis­ sionary families to educate their kids in a wholesome atmosphere. Pray for the kids that must break the lies as they leave and for new staff to replace those that are returning home. Kaylene Plett

South Eastern Manitoba Christian Education Convention September 15-17, 1989 The third biennial South Eastern Manitoba Christian Education Convention (SEMCEC) will take place at the Steinbach Regional Secondary School on September 15-17, 1989. Because of the enthusiastic response to previous conventions and continuing in­ terest on the part of church leaders, the con­ ference, which features plenary sessions and workshops in many areas of Christian ministry, will convene again this fall. Rev. Mark Senter, professor of Christian Education at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and his wife, Mrs. Ruth Senter, author and editor of “Partnership” magazine, will speak during general sessions and present a variety of workshops. More than 100 other workshops will offer help in the “how to’s” of ministry, with experienced workshop leaders sharing skills for working with early childhood through adult learners, in areas such as teaching, music, library development, special ministries, missions/evangelism, and ad­ ministration. This year a more specialized Writer’s Track will provide information and

assistance for those who write or wish to write for denominational publications, religious magazines, or newspapers. Approximately 1000 participants attended SEMCEC ’87; many churches found the event to be a time of concentrated training and encouragement for their entire Christian education staff and church workers. A com­ mittee of eight people, representing various churches and schools in South Eastern Manitoba, plans and prepares for the nondenominational event. A Pastors’ and Christian Leaders’ Con­ ference will precede the Christian Education Convention. On September 14 and 15, Dr. Carlin Weinhauer, senior pastor at Willingdon Church, Burnaby, B.C., will be the featured speaker at the conference. He will minister along with thirteen workshop leaders, in­ cluding Rev. and Mrs. Senter, focusing on the topic “Knowing God.” One hour of academic credit for this conference is available from Winnipeg Theological Seminary. For further information about SEMCEC ’89 or about the Pastors’ and Leaders’ Con­ ference, write to SEMCEC ’89, Box 3370, Steinbach, MB, ROA 2A0. THE MESSENGER

Sunday morning service at Portage is led by Les Kroeker, youth pastor.

Portage ministerial (seated): Pastor Otto and Margaret Hamm, (standing): Sharon and Lester Kroeker (youth pastor); Ed and Mary Nikkei (deacon couple).

Church Profile

PORTAGE EVANGELICAL CHURCH SUNDAY MORNING On April 23 we were privileged to join the congregation of the Portage Evangelical Church for their Sunday morning activities. Pastor Otto Hamm and his wife, Margaret, were in the foyer, warmly greeting the people as they arrived. By 9:45 the children and young people had assembled in the basement for the Sunday school open­ ing under the direction of the superintendent, Marge Hildebrand. In the sanctuary the adults were beginning their Bible study, led by Lany Dyck. Many were sipping a cup of coffee from the pot at the back of the room. Meanwhile the group downstairs was singing choruses. After the opening activities they dispersed into eight classes. The attendance was 87, close to the current record of 90. At 11:00 everyone gathered in the sanctuary for family worship led by youth pastor Lester Kroeker. The service included a children’s item by Debbie Iverson, accordion solo by Alvin Iverson and a good deal of singing led by Larry Dyck. Ron Loewen read the Scriptures and Frank Goertzen of Virden preached the sermon. Frank is the chairman of the Region 3 Ministerial. His theme was “Love,” based on I Corinthians 13 and I John 4. He contrasted the selfish attitudes and demand for personal rights with true love which does not insist on having its own way, but considers the needs of others. “Selfishness aims at happiness,” he said, “but always cheats itself out of it.”

PORTAGE LA PRAIRIE The church is located on the north side of the tracks at the corner

Singing In the Sunday school assembly. JUNE 23, 1989

of 5th Avenue and 6th Street N.W. in Portage la Prairie. Portage, as it is commonly known, is about an hour’s drive west of Winnipeg on the Trans-Canada Highway. La Verendrye established a fur­ trading post here in 1738, known as Fort la Reine. Since it was on the route of the portage across the prairie between the Assiniboine River and Lake Manitoba, it later became known as Portage la Prairie. When the railways came, both CP and CN chose to have their main lines pass through Portage. A large institution on the north side of Portage was the Manitoba School for Mental Defectives, now the Development Centre. It pro­ vided employment for a number of members in the early years of the Portage church. The Portage plains are so well-suited to growing vegetables that the Campbell Soup Company, and later McCain’s, established large processing plants here.

PORTAGE CHURCH BEGINNINGS Dave Schellenberg, former editor of The Messenger, was the planter and first pastor of the Portage church. We asked him to tell us how it began: “The beginning of the Portage la Prairie EMC Church goes back to the year 1959 when the EMC Extension Committee began a church-planting ministry here. As / recall it, the MacGregor EMC Church conducted the first meetings. If i am correct, the meetings were held in the home of Benny Penners in Portage. From there they moved to rented quarters in the Portage Orange Hall.

Saskatchewan Ave., Portage’s “main street.”

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EVENTS FROM THE PASl

story time with Debbie iverson.

“Not very long after, the request came whether we would move to Portage to take up this ministry. We consented. We were living in Steinbach at the time and made the move in July of 1959. Our oldest son uias 18 and there were five younger children. “We moved into a rented house on Royal Road. To supplement the services in the Orange Hall we began morning services and Sun­ day school in our house. The meetings in the Orange Hall were shifted to the evening. There were around seven families who wor­ shipped with us. Others maybe came once in a while. “The need, of course, soon was there to have our own building. I can still remember when Brother Henry Thiessen (MacGregor) and I went shopping for a lot. We chose to look in the northwest part of the city. We found a parcel of corner land (I think it consisted of two lots), which we purchased. "On May 2. 1960 we had a sod-turning ceremony for our new church. Very much voluntary labour, labour of love, went into the construction. One end would contain an apartment for the pastor and his family. On November 6. six months later, we held our first service in the basement of the new church. This was a great day for the church. The upstairs part remained unfinished for a while. ” On February 19, 1961 the group was organized into a local church of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference, with 14 charter members. With much volunteer help, locally and from other districts, the upstairs was completecd by the spring of 1964. A large audience filled the new sanctuary for the dedication service on June 7. I I I I I I

1974: Pastor Giadwin Plett with morning devotions on Radio CFRY, Portage. This ministry is shared with other pastors in Portage.

5 YEARS AGO November 2, 1984: “Except the Lord build the house - they labour in vain that build it.” Our church can, because of this verse in Psalm 127, celebrate 25 years of being alive and well. Sunday, October 14, was a great day of reminiscing and looking toward the future. The church was started with a group of people meeting in a home with Elmer Hamm and Henry Thiessen teaching the Word. In February 1961 fourteen charter members were organized: Mr. and Mrs. Dave Schellenberg, Mr. and Mrs. John Klassen, Mr. and Mrs. Glen Sawatzky, Mr. and Mrs. Dave Sawatzky, Mr. and Mrs. Jake Bergen, Mr. and Mrs. Menno Kroeker, and Mr. and Mrs. Bennie Penner. The services were held in the church basement until 1964 when the sanctuary was completed. In the slide presentation we saw the men (volunteers from many areas) building and felt the dedication and work involved in getting the church where it is today. May we never take this for granted. The Sunday school started with 14. The first year it grew to 80 and several years later to 165. Dynamic growth indeed! How visible the hand of God was as the work was blessed beyond measure! The superintendent at the time was Mr. John Klassen, presently residing in Steinbach. Mr. Klassen stressed that the key to this growth was visitation, children’s rallies, absentee follow up, and a home department Sunday school. In the home depart­ ment, Sunday school material was taken to the elderly or to those unable to attend church. Then once a week the superintendent would go to the homes and answer any questions they had and teach them further. Laura Falk 10 YEARS AGO June 8, 1979: We have the opportunity to hear a variety of speakers while our congregation is still without a pastor. It was a delight to have Tina Blatz, a long-time missionary to Europe, minister to us at the morning service on Mother’s Day, May 13. While she is not a natural mother she is a spiritual parent to many. Miss Blatz challenged us with a Scripture passage from Acts 16, emphasizing three aspects; 1) the cry of the people, 2) the call of the Lord, 3) the consecra­ tion of the vessel. We also listened with interest to experiences that Tina enthusiastically shared from her visits to communist countries. Our young people’s group, under the leadership of Larry Dycks, had a very successful garage sale on May 19. The purpose was to raise money for a camp-out this summer. On May 30 our church was the scene of the annual Friendship Bible Coffee Rally for the Portage area. A large group of ladies was present to enjoy the inspirational afternoon. Representatives from approximately 25 Friendship Bible Coffee groups shared blessings and testimonies. It is really thrilling to see God at work, changing and enriching people’s lives. Praise the Lord!

15 YEARS AGO August 23, 1974: Forty campers made Camp Jubilee a lively place July 22-28. We thank God for willing workers who provided for the spiritual and physical needs of the camp. The pictures show you one of the activities enjoyed by the campers during “Trail Craft.” Paul Ruten was the instruc­ tor. Cooking from a “hobo stove” consisted of fried eggs and bacon. Not all the stoves got started in the time allowed, because the kindling was not dry enough.

1984: Former members singing at the 25th Anniversary.

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November 15, 1974: The Mennonite centennial arrival was marked on October 27 at the Crescentview School. The event was hosted by the Por­ tage Evangelical Mennonite Church. Approximately 200 attended. Song leader Mr. Wes Chen and pianist Mrs. Leona Ruten led the group in the familiar gospel hymns. The scripture from Deuteronomy was read in German by Mr. H. Fast and in English by Charles Rempel. The after­ noon was highlighted by selections from the Niverville Mennonite Brethren Male choir under the direction of John Koslowsky. They sang both in

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English and German and repeated on special request “Gottes Volk Darf Nie Ermueden.” Rev. Henry Gerbrandt, Winnipeg, executive secretary of the General Conference of Mennonites, was the guest speaker. A time of fellowship with coffee and doughnuts concluded the celebration. 20 YEARS AGO February 26, 1969: Miss Evelyn Barkman, who is serving her term of missionary probation here, is kept busy with church work. She teaches six Good News Clubs a week, one in our church and five in different homes. These are all in Portage except for one at High Bluff. In the last month she reports six decisions for the Lord among these children. In her visitation program she contacts one or two homes a day of families in need of spiritual help, love and kindness. Eight of these families are visited regularly. The older citizens at the Municipal Farm appreciate her visits very much too. Evelyn assists Mr. Klassen in leading our Young People’s Meetings. About fourteen young people come to the meetings quite regularly; quite a few who do not attend church regularly are included. They have had an enjoyable Valentine’s party at the home of Pete Hamms on February 14th. Besides these activities Evelyn has a part in our Sunday School, Family Night and other church functions. We’re thankful for her service here and pray that God will continue to bless her work.

April II, 1969: The cantata “From Life to Life,” selected, arranged and directed by Jake Bergen, was presented on March 30 by our Youth Choir, Octet, Quartet, Double Duet and Soloist. The pianist was Mrs. Albert Groening. The program was a blessing to all who attended. March 16 the young people brought the program “What is the Bible Worth to You?” A display of Bibles (old ones, different translations, dif­ ferent languages) was placed on a table at the back of the church. We were encouraged, through the message by John Klassen, as well as the other items on the program, to take more time to study our Bibles.

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Larry Dyck leading the Adult Bible class.

LEADERSHIP The pastors and their terms of service are: Dave Schellenberg — 1959 to 1965; John Dyck — 1965 to 1969 (elected by the member­ ship); Gladwin Plett — 1969 to June 30, 1978; Cecil Nelson — pastor, November 25, 1979 to 1984, August 1 to November 30, 1985, 1984 to July 31, 1985, December 1, 1985 to January 31, 1986; Ken Zacharias — associate / youth pastor, October 1982 to 1984, pastor, 1984 to July 31, 1985; Otto Hamm - December 1, 1985 to the present; Lester Kroeker — pastor-in-training/youth pastor, February 7, 1988 to the present. Cecil Nelson shares some highlights of his ministry in the Portage congregation: “The occasion of the 20th Anniversary of the church was a great blessing when many of the local pastors plus a number of the EMC churches sent greetings or representatives. “There was rejoicing when new members were added to the church. The pre-membership classes were a time of study and blessing. “The Lord gave the church a real outreach to the community, not only through the members and adherents, but as a body through the ministry in Lions’ Manor, hospital, Oak Tree Towers, radio and

25 YEARS AGO February 21, 1964: Thanks to a group of men from Kola the Portage la Prairie E.M. Church’s upper auditorium is now all but ready for oc­ cupancy. Having been built in 1960, all services thus far were conducted in the lower auditorium. On Feb. 4 a group of 14 men, with saws, ham­ mers and a mind to work, proceeded with the “finishing” of our main auditorium. They worked all day and evening and all next day with the result that where before there had been bare walls, floor and ceiling, there now was an almost finished room 40x44. Here you see them, but for a well earned supper, ready to leave for home.

September 18, 1964: “CAMP JUBILEE” is a Bible camp site located on the shores of Lake Manitoba some 20 miles north of Portage la Prairie, Manitoba. The camp grounds consist of dormitories, chapel, kitchen, etc., sufficient to accommodate about 70 campers. This year, for the first time, the Portage E.M. Church, with valuable assistance and help from the MacGregor E.M. Church, sponsored its own camp at these camp grounds. It was an enjoyable and blessed experience for the 36 campers who made up the first camp. About half of these came from Portage. Others came from MacGregor, Valley Stream, High Bluff and two from Blumenort. We rejoice in the first-time decisions that were made at this camp. Another cause for thanksgiving were the many testimonies by both children and young people. It is our prayer that all decisions, whether for salvation or rededication, will be carried on into life. Dave Schellenberg

1964: Building helpers from Kola and the staff and campers at Camp Jubilee.

JUBILEE

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later, television. “The love of God shown through the church family was a bless­ ing and encouragement. ” Ed and Mary Nikkei and Henry and Hannah Neufeld have serv­ ed terms as deacon couples in the church. The church has passed through periods of growth and decline. Membership peaked at 45 in 1976, and at 85 in 1984. It appears to have entered a new period of growth, having 68 members and a considerable number of adherents. In his report to the church at the annual meeting in January, Alvin Iverson, Board Chairman, said, “It is encouraging to see what the Lord has done within our church over the past year. New faces in our church and sharing spiritual joys and challenges throughout the year have brought us as a church board and family closer together. ”

CURRENT HIGHLIGHTS The Portage church is active in many programs: SUNDAY SCHOOL: Last year the Sunday School superinten­ dent was Debbie Iverson. They had special events such as a Fun Fair, a Family Swim, and a Christmas program featuring the customs of Christmas. Marge Hildebrand is the new superintendent. Among various projects is the support of a boy, Titus, in Kenya, through World Vision. “TREASURE ISLAND” KIDS CLUB: The club brings in many children from unchurched families. Regular activities include story time, singing and gym time. These are interspersed with crafts, presentations, videos, puppets and Scripture memorization. Many parents came to the Christmas program put on by club members. CAMP JUBILEE: This has been a profitable program for many

The Senior High class with Larry Giesbrecht. years. It is an inter-church camp at Delta, on Lake Manitoba. Each church gets to use the camp for a week during the summer months. It has been the means of presenting the Gospel to many unchurch­ ed children, as well as nurturing the faith of Christian boys and girls. It is also the site of an annual Family Camp. YOUTH: Les and Sharon Kroeker are assisted by Gary and Corrina Yanchuk in leading the youth program. It was a thrill to see two persons commit their lives to Christ last year. Many of the young people have become involved in a variety of Christian service activities. YOUNG ADULTS: This is a recent addition to the church pro­ gram, and is off to a good start, with Les and Sharon Kroeker tak­ ing the lead. LADIES FELLOWSHIP: The Portage Church has an active Ladies Fellowship. They have a morning Bible Study on Thursdays. The regular monthly meetings are centered around a theme and include a special feature. The theme just concluded has been on “Priorities,” divided into six different areas. Money is raised for projects chosen by the ladies. Another service provided by the ladies is the prayer chain, ready to respond to any emergency or need.

CONCLUSION: As usual, in trying to get to know a church family and how it works, I am impressed by the quality and quantity of what I discover. I feel I have just begun to scratch the surface of the enthusiasm and dedica­ tion of the people in the Portage Church. I wish it were possible to convey more of the spirit of unity in this report. To learn more about the people of the Portage Church I suggest two things: visit the congregation and read their reports in The Messenger. Menno Hamm I"'-*.

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THE PORTAGE EVANGELICAL CHURCH SUNDAY SCHOOL 9:45 AM SUNDAY WORSHIP 11.00 AM PASTOR OTTO HAMM 857-4146

WELCOMES YOU

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Kay Hamm teaches Kindergarten 4.

Your welcome at Portage is assured.

The Ladies' Group Is active.

Both CP and CN trains pass through Portage. THE MESSENGER

Messenger News •

w Karla Dueck (center) was baptized at the Rosenort church on May 14. Seen with her in the photo are Amos Fehr (youth pastor) and Frank P. Kroeker (pastor).

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BAPTISM Rosenort, Man.: Karla Dueck, daughter of Art and Martha, was baptized on May 14. Mrs. Laura Bergstresser was the talented soloist for this occasion, singing “Broken and Spilled Out,” “They’ve Never Heard of Jesus” and “Calvary’s Love.” Karla’s uncle Wes had words of encouragement before he read the scripture (Acts 8:26-40) and prayed. Pastor Frank spoke on “Prerequisites for Baptism” and performed the ordinance. Amos Fehr presented Karla with a study Bible. “Why stand ye gazing?” was the question posed by Cornie Loewen as he spoke to us about Christ’s ascension and his imminent return. Let’s be doing the work He called us to do! On May 1 a drama team from Millar Col­ lege of the Bible, Pambrun, Sask., presented a program (mostly drama) in which their dean of students, Mr. Bob Peters, also took part. They portrayed the man born blind and later healed by Jesus. The man suffered immediate persecution and ostracism because he prais­ ed the Lord. What would we do in his shoes? Dan Zehr of MCC spoke in our church on May 7. His text was Acts 10:30-48 and his theme “Indonesia - The Church in a Muslim Environment.” Dora Friesen and Mary Loewen are both home from Mexico at present. Welcome! Dora reported on some aspects of her work on May 28. Karen Dueck is going on a ten-week urban program under City Team Ministries in California. She will be involved in helping in­ ner city kids find meaning in life as she helps with Vacation Bible Schools and camps. Our youth groups combined for a “cleanathon” on May 13. They picked up plenty of trash along the roadsides from River­ side to Rosenort and east to McTavish. The proceeds went for Abundant Springs registra­ tions and Bible camps, etc. Another very wor­ thy project was taken on by the College and Career group that went to Ashern, Man., under MDS, repairing fences, building a cor­ ral, etc. Many older volunteers have also

JUNE 23, 1989

Parent! child dedication of the Wymark church on May 14. Back row (left to right): Ken and Marilyn Wall with Kristi Danae, Dennis and Anita Zacharias with Alyssa Dawn, Gerald and Esther Hamm with Amber Lee Katie, Marvin and Talita Hildebrand with Brittany Aliece. Front: Gordon and Hilda Peters with Trent Benjamin, Pastor John Kornelsen.

gone, and their work was greatly appreciated. Our youth and college and career people have also had canoe trips down the beautiful Morris River. These were followed by camp­ fire singing and sharing. God is near at such times, as we draw near to Him. Murray and Muriel Brandt were bereaved of little Angela Marie at birth. A family funeral was held May 24. A ringing message on the need for gospel witnessing was brought by Amos Fehr on May 28. Do we really believe that non-Christians are lost and doomed? It should cause us to reach out and rescue them! A slide presenta­ tion and a hearty challenge on Choice Books

were brought in the evening service by Harold and Mary Plett of Landmark. A sisterly trio (daughters of Edwin Pletts) sang of Jesus’ love. Larry Eidse taught an adult Sunday school elective on two Sundays. His topic was “How should a Christian relate to the World?” The second lesson zeroed in on social drinking. “Wine is a mocker” (Prov. 20:1). Other elec­ tives will follow, taught by Menno Kroeker, Frank P. Kroeker, Larry Eidse, Barb Thorn­ ton and Amos Fehr. Most of these will deal with teacher training for Vacation Bible Schools. Leui Dueck

THE CHURCH AT WORK AND PLAY

Arden, Man.: on May 12 we held our last Family Night for the season at the Arden Park. The older participants enjoyed a ballgame while the younger ones entertain­ ed themselves on the playground equipment. The evening ended with a wiener and marsh­ mallow roast. Early the next morning some ladies drove to Portage to sell all the baking the ladies had prepared. They also raised some money at the Arden School Track and Field Day. We wish to thank the fathers and sons who presented a Mother’s Day program on May 21. Dennis Paterson, from the Baptist Church, led in a devotional. We appreciated every item. Several people graciously donated their time and energy to help clean and fix the church building and yard on May 31. The delicious cakes made by Mrs. Neufeld were a much appreciated treat for the workers.

During the past month the young people have spent every Friday evening cleaning up yards in the community. They are raising money for their Camp-Out in August. June 4 we enjoyed a missionary report and message brought by Mr. Ben Strohschein. He and his wife have been missionaries in Chad for many years and will be returning for a short term in November. Presently he is TEAM’S western Canada representative. Mr. Strohschein asked us two challenging questions after considering Job’s response: 1) Will a man serve God when God is silent? 2) Will a man serve God when hope is gone? Job did. So did the persecuted Chadian Christians who died for their faith. The Lord is so good to us. Our prayers for rain are being answered. This week we have had almost three inches, and it’s still raining. Great is our God and greatly to be praised! Leona Rempel PAGE 11

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A baptismal service was held at the Swift Current church on May 7. Back (left to right): Tom Peachey (Associate Pastor), Herman Wiebe, John Toews (Pastor). Front: Wanda Klassen, Anne Brown, Bernice Funk. Communion was celebrated following the baptism. A fellowship dinner was served after the service.

A parent I baby dedication was held at the Swift Current church on Mother's Day, May 14. Participating in this service were (left to right) George and Marlene Friesen and Christine, Pastor John Toews, Tina Toews, Gloria and Gord Neustaeter and Derek.

JANZ TEAM CRUSADE HELD

Laverna Klippenstein speaking at the Prairie Rose church spring tea.

SPRING TEA ENJOYED Landmark, Man.: Three times a year a prophet of God is invited to come to our church for a series of meetings, known as deeper life meetings, revival meetings or mis­ sions conference. Rudy Boschman of B.C. was the minister this spring, April 16-23. He has a heart for people, and his messages were sound, convincing and helpful. It was evident that he was talking from experience. Much of his instruction dealt with our first love and discipleship. Object lessons on tithing had a small part in every service. Singing was with gusto, especially the closing hymns of sur­ render, and the response of the people was encouraging. Brother Boschman, your tears relayed a message; do come again. It was also a blessing to have Mrs. Anne Boschman in our midst. It had been a resounding success, the ladies agreed, as they put away the last dishes. Their friends and neighbours had been out to a spring tea and all its benefits at our church on May 9. Instead of a mother/daughter tea, the doors were swung wide open to include ladies of the community of Landmark. No efforts had been spared to make it an enjoyable evening. The decor was beautiful with spring flowers and plants. Tasty fancy sandwiches and fruit flans just suited the guests. Laverna Klippenstein, renowned writer and speaker from Winnipeg, shared thoughts on “Mother’s Christian Qualities”

Riverton, Man.: ‘Encounter Life' - To In­ terlakers this theme became familiar as our at­ tention turned to the Janz Team Crusade held the week of April 9-16. The services were sponsored by surrounding churches and held at the Arborg Elementary School gymnasium. Larry Janz spoke nightly, directing our thoughts towards our relationship with God. It was a joy to see people responding to God’s voice. It was a pleasure to serve in the mass choir under the leadership of Jack Stenekes. The special music provided by Mr. Stenekes and his family was also much appreciated. Christa Janz spent several mornings speak­ ing to the women about mothering. She says she always enjoys young mothers because they haven’t yet made all the mistakes. She encouraged the older women to continue to direct and advise the younger generation. What could be more invigorating on a cool April night than a hayride (horsedrawn), a

huge bonfire, some snacks and a sing-along! This was the scene at the home of Darrell and Vicki Friesen the evening of April 23. The Children of Light from the Steinbach Bible College, along with Jerry Hildebrand, came to our chapel on May 1 to present an inspiring program of song, testimony and a devotional. It seemed that night lodging was no problem; many of the young people had family and friends here that they wished to see. We wound up the month of May with “The Mix-Up.” The grade 6 Religious Education class from the Riverton Elementary School presented this play, under the direction of their teacher, Roxanne Buhler. Fresh insights into humility were presented through this presentation of the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector (Luke 18:9-14). A warm welcome to Dale and Gaylene Kornelsen who moved into our community from Winnipeg. It is good to have you in our midst, already willing to serve. Carol Kornelsen

that could be developed by everyone present. Rozelle Reimer had a scarf-tying demonstra­ tion, and a few ladies’ groups ministered with appropriate songs. A blessed venture, dear sisters! Your friends will be waiting for next spring. Harold Plett Cindy and Les Warkentin (front) and Gor­ don Buhr (back, right) were welcomed as members into the Prairie Rose fellowship by Pastor Edwin Plett (back, left) on February 12, 1989. The Warkentins' contribution to the church for a number of years has been greatly appreciated. ,,i r

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Rozelle Reimer had a scarf-tying demonstration at the spring ladies tea at the Prairie Rose church. Bob and Rose Klippenstein were received into the membership of the Prairie Rose church on May 7.

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NETTIE FRIESEN 1911-1989

Taking part in a parent i child dedication service at the E.M. Church in Steinbach, Man. on May 21 were the following (left to right): Ross and Barb Klassen and daughter Stephanie Susanne, Kevin and Julie Friesen and son Camren Brett Shore, Marilyn Martens (Randy is missing) and son Christopher James, Jeff and Karen Wood and daughter Katherine Sarah. y' f .

Junior Young People’s skit.

Age 4-5 c/ass at Kola.

FAMILY NIGHT CLOSING PROGRAM

Kola, Man.: On May 3, 1989 we wrap­ ped up another session of Family Night at Kola, with a closing program. In this way, each class could share what they had learn­ ed in their Bible studies. After a number of choruses, Richard Klassen, the adults’ teacher, opened the pro­ gram with scripture and prayer. The children, age 4 through grade 5, took last summer’s DVBS material, “Champions for Jesus,” in their classes. They learned a lesson for each letter in the word “Champion” and they started off their portion of the pro­ gram by stating what these were: C - commitment

H - honesty A - active in service M - memorization P - prayer I - interest in others O - overcoming hurdles N - never give up All the children, together with ‘Spunky,’ their eagle friend (a puppet, operated by Elly Martens), had a skit. Like an eagle, we need to keep practicing, we need to be properly equipped, we need to trust our Savior and follow His instructions if we want to be cham­ pions for Jesus. Included in the skit were the songs that the children had learned during their Wednesday evening classes. The young people sang two songs, “Don’t You Know It’s Time to Praise the Lord” and “How I Love You.” JUNE 23, 1989

The Junior Young People, under the capable direction of Geneva Siemens, per­ formed an original skit. They showed us quite clearly that we really can know that Jesus Christ was and is a real Person and not a myth or an invention of the mind. Also, He really did rise from the dead, and gives us assurance of life eternal. Through their realistic TV documentary, complete with commer­ cials, we learned that the “Good News” is still relevant today. They ended with a song. “As a Deer Pants for the Water.” Pastor Art Neufeld closed the meeting and everyone headed to the basement for coffee, juice and doughnuts. It was a great ending to Family Night. See you in the fall! Pat Schellenberg

NOW WE REMEMBER This family book of Jacob and Maria R. Klassen will be ready July 1, 1989. Pre-publication price until June 30 is $25.00. Price after June 30 is $27.50. It mailing is required, add $2.50 for each book. Order from: Walter Dueck Box 103 Rosenort, MB ROG 1W0 Phone (204) 746-8985

"Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: never­ theless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exer­ cised thereby” (Hebrews 12:11) (Mother’s favorite verse). Our mother was born to David and Sarah Siemens on November 11, 1911 at Stein­ bach, moved to Kansas as a little girl with her parents, came back to Manitoba and grew up in the Rosenort area. When she was a teen they moved to Giroux, where in summer of 1930 she accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as her Savior and Lord and was baptized that same summer, becoming a member of the E.M.C., of which she was a life-time member. She was joined to our father, Abram Friesen, in holy matrimony on September 21, 1930 in a double ceremony with her sister Mary and Father’s cousin, Abram Friesen. Seven children were born to them, of which they lost four at infancy; later they adopted a two-year-old girl. Their first home was established in Father’s parents’ garden. Eight years later they bought a farm and moved to Landmark. Then in 1957 they saw possibilities for spiritual and financial advancement in moving to the new settlement at Riverton and together they en­ joyed their farm life and were active in church activities, especially the Riverton extension work. Her life of happiness and blessing was sud­ denly intenupted when Dad was called home through a tragic combine accident in 1978, a shock from which she seemingly never quite recovered. Since about 1950 she has suffered much from leg ulcers and was in and out of the hospital quite often up to the early 198O’s. In 1980 she suffered spells from a blockage in the carotid artery. Surgery was planned but the Lord intervened and when another test was done they found He had provided a by­ pass. When cancer was discovered in 1986, Mother underwent a major operation, follow­ ed by 25 treatments. She took these amaz­ ingly well but never fully regained her strength. In the summer of 1988 she began receiv­ ing weekly injections to control some malig­ nant spots. The side effects, in addition to her gallstones, diabetes and hernia, further weakened her and required several hospital stays. Mother didn’t fail to express her apprecia­ tion and it always brought her joy when her children, grandchildren and great­ grandchildren came to be with her. She spent many hours crocheting afghans and slippers for her family members and the local thrift shop. It was a real struggle for her when she couldn’t serve her guests with meals anymore, and when she had to submit to personal care. She also enjoyed the visits, cards and PAGE 13

telephone calls from brothers, sisters, friends and neighbors in her lonely hours. Shortly before last Christmas she was per­ suaded to enter the hospital for a quick build­ up, so that she could be with her family for the holidays. On January 6 she was re­ admitted for hospital care. After two weeks she was discharged into the care of her daughter Sharon. She was failing day by day and wondered why it took so long until she could go home. By February 7, Mother’s blood sugar had dropped dangerously low and the swelling was giving her constant pain. She was taken to the Gimli Hospital again where she was put on oxygen and was given morphine for the pain. The following morning John and Sharon were at her bedside when she pass­ ed on to the beyond. She was conscious to the end, recognizing those at her side, trying to respond by opening her eyes and moving her lips, but unable to make a sound. She breathed her last at 10:40 a.m., February 8, 1989, giving her a lifetime of 77 years, 2 months and 28 days. Mother had shared almost 48 years in marriage with our father, and had lived in widowhood for over ten years. She leaves to mourn her passing, yet re joicing for her sake that she is relieved from her suffering and loneliness, daughter Sara and husband Dave Plett, son Milton and wife Mary, all of Arborg; son Eddie and wife Marian of Vernon, B.C.; daughter Sharon aud husband John Kernot of Arborg; 13 grandchildren (seven of them married) and 9 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by three sisters, three brothers, as well as four aunts (her mother’s sisters) and a host of relatives and friends. She is predeceased by her parents, two brothers and one sister. Although we miss her, we are thankful to know she is now at rest, her suffering ended. and has been transplanted from this home to a much better one up yonder. Praise the name of the Lord! We as a family would like to express our deep appreciation to the Gimli Hospital staff, Dr. S.V. Patel and Dr. A. Mehta, as well as for all the visits, cards, prayers and many other kind acts towards our dearly beloved departed Mother and us, her family. The last Sunday and again on Monday her daughters had each shared this portion with her, which she appreciated: What Cancer Can’t Do Cancer is so limited It cannot cripple loue It cannot shatter hope It cannot corrode faith It cannot eat away peace It cannot destroy confidence It cannot kill friendship It cannot shut out memories It cannot silence courage It cannot invade the soul It cannot reduce eternal life It cannot quench the Spirit It cannot lessen the power of the resurrection. PAGE 14

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MARY KORNELSEN FRIESEN 1898-1989

“Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on. Yes, says the Spirit, they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.” (Revelation 14:13). Mother passed on to heaven’s glory at noon Friday, May 26, 1989, having attained the age of 91 years and three months. She was born in the Kleefeld area in Manitoba on February 24, 1898 to Mr. and Mrs. Jacob W. Kornelsen. Our mother accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized upon the confession of her faith in Christ by Bishop Peter R. Dueck, and remained a faithful member of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference all her life. On May 6, 1917 at the age of 19 she mar­ ried our father, Jacob W. Friesen. They resided in Blumenort for the first year, and then purchased a farm in Kleefeld where they farmed for about 45 years. In 1963 they sold the farm and took up residence in the village of Kleefeld. On May 1, 1979 they moved to Birchwood Apartments near the Rest Haven Home in Steinbach, and lived there until September 7, 1979 when Mother suffered a severe stroke. She was admitted to Bethesda Hospital for several months and later to the Rest Haven Nursing Home, where they resided until Father’s death in July of 1981. Mother carried on for nearly eight more years. Although she maintained a fairly cheerful outlook on life, she suffered from impaired speech. When she suffered another light stroke this winter her condition noticeably took a turn for the worse until her death, Mother will be remembered for her quiet loving care for her family. She was a capable seamstress and had a heart for the under­ privileged. Her concern for the physical and spiritual well-being of the family was evident, especially during the years that the family was growing up. She was intimate with her children and wished that she could have pro­ vided more for them, especially during the early 3O’s depression years. “She did what she could,” as recorded in Mark 14:8. Mother served God cheerfully with her heart, soul and hands by sewing, quilting, knitting, cooking and baking. She also loved the old familiar German songs, and sang a lot over the years.

She was predeceased by an infant daughter, a son Peter (age 14) in 1934 due to appendicitis, her daughter-in-law Annie (Mrs. Albert Friesen) in February 1960, and our father in July of 1981. She was also predeceased by her three sisters and eight brothers, leaving only one brother, Bernhard, in Mexico. She leaves to mourn her passing: six daugthers, Annie and her husband Jake B. Reimer of Mexico; Mary and her husband Jacob C. Penner of Nova Scotia; Betty and her husband Abe B. Reimer of Arborg; Dora of Steinbach; Lillian of Moose Jaw, Saskat­ chewan; Helen and her husband Dave Loewen of Winnipeg; five sons, Frank and Adina of Florida; Albert and Elizabeth of Kleefeld; Jake and Mary of Stratton, Ontario; Abe and Mary of Portage la Prairie; Harvey and Doris of Calgary, Alberta; 72 grand­ children, 149 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. The family extends sincere thanks to the many friends, neighbors, the Rest Haven staff especially, and the doctors and nurses who administered loving care during the ten years of her illness. May God richly reward you all. The Tamili)

In memory of Alvin Doerksen, who passed away fuly 5, 1988 It seems but like a moment, Since I arrived up here. According to earth's time, I know it is a year.

I know that you are struggling. Alone, hurting, often full of fear. But, oh, never ever do give up. It's worth it all, once you get here. The bliss beyond expression. Harmony, love, joy and peace we share. With Jesus in the midst of us. Not a thing on earth with this compares.

When your work on earth is done, You too will join this blissful throng. I will meet you at the gate. While heaven's hosts break out in song. The Family

Weddings BUHR — PLETT: Gordon John, son of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Buhr of Steinbach. Man., was married on April 21, 1989 to Tamera Claudette, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Plett, of Landmark, Man. The wedding took place at the Prairie Rose E. M. Church in Landmark, with Dan Warkentin of Land­ mark officiating. The couple is making their home in Landmark. REIMER - SMERCH: Lome, son of Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Reimer of Landmark, Man., and Gayle Smerch, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bill Savage of Winnipeg, Man., were married at the Landmark Fellowship Church on June 17, 1989. Winston Penner of Landmark officiated. The couple is mak­ ing their home in Landmark. THE MESSENGER

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It is better to have several smaller churches than one large church. That was the thinking of our church leaders in the 1950s. In a large church, people could drift to the spiritual periphery without being noticed. In a small church there was greater accountability. In a large church people were uninvolved. In a small church everyone was needed. Besides, more farming land was need­ ed for expansion and future generations. And so. Conference leadership encourag­ ed churches to divide and form new con­ gregations such as Pleasant Valley, Ridgewood and the Steinbach EFC. Others moved to areas such as Kola, Heron, Mennville (1 was part of this

group), Arden, Morweena, Fisher Branch and Pansy to farm and establish churches. Some of these churches have grown substantially, while others have felt the squeeze of a declining farming population, and the pain of seeing their young people migrate to urban areas for jobs and education. Though contemporary church planting strategists would not likely suggest plant­ ing churches in some of these smaller com­ munities, these churches are having a ma­ jor spiritual impact in their communities. In a number of places, they function as the community evangelical church. Again and again I am impressed with the ministry car­ ried on by our smaller churches. But they also face some difficulties. While some people are happy with the inter-generational flavour of a small church, others are looking for a church that provides specialized programming for each age or interest group; e.g., clubs, youth, single adults, music programs, etc.

BLUMENORT YOUTH HAVE LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCE IN KENTUCKY WINNIPEG, Man. — Thirty-two young people from the Blumenort (Man.) Evangelical Mennonite Church, traveled to the Appalachian region of Kentucky this spring to serve through the SWAP (Sharing with Appalachian People) program of Men­ nonite Central Committee (MCC) U.S. It was a life-changing experience, according to two participants. Eighteen-year-old Rita Plett said the week­ long experience was “an introduction to mis­ sions. I got a feeling for what missions would be like. I’d like to go back some day.” Marge Thiessen, 17, felt the same. “I’m go­ ing to have to do some Christian service after high school,” she said, adding that “my think­ ing about missions has changed. I used to think about it as something over there, that you had to go overseas to do. But missions isn’t a place, it’s people.” During their March spring break, the Blumenort youth met people in southeast Kentucky while repairing homes for poor peo­ ple. “It was a positive experience,” said Cliff Loewen, a youth pastor who accompanied the group. “It gave us a sense of accomplish­ ment to share God’s love in a practical way.” One of the main things the group learned, according to Loewen, “was to be content with what we have when so many have so little.” Rita Plett said that she had never seen that kind of proverty before. “I was upset that employers in the region could pay people so little,” she said. Marge Thiessen was impress­ ed by “how content the people seemed to be, even though they didn’t have things we con­ sider necessities.” She was particularly im­ pressed by their close family ties. JUNE 23, 1989

The Blumenort group was the largest ever to participate in SWAP; it was also the first group from Canada to participate, according to Carol Loeppky, MCC Kentucky worker who currently administers SWAP. Loeppky recalled one family with which the group worked. Frieda and Johnny Rodriguez were unable to make home repairs on the in­ come Frieda earns in a fast-food restaurant; Johnny cannot work due to a mining accident several years ago. The Blumenort group repaired the roof on Rodriguezes’ house, installed a new toilet, placed tile on a floor and painted. When they were done, “Johnny stood back in amaze­ ment,” reported Loeppky. “It must have been a worthwhile ex­ perience,” said Loeppky, “for although the group traveled a total of more than 60 hours, those I spoke with said they would recom­ mend SWAP to other youth groups.” Participants in the SWAP program have to pay their own way to Kentucky and buy the materials used in home repair. The Blumenort group raised $7,000 for the trip through work­ days and fund raisers; each participant also paid $125. —from an MCC News report TEACHER REQUIRED

The Fort Frances-Rainy River School Board requires a half-time Special EducationResource Teacher at Sturgeon Creek Alter­ native Program, Stratton, Ontario. (This is a Christian Day School operated jointly by Chris­ tian parents and the Public School Board.) Start­ ing date is August 28. Apply in writing to Peter Reimer, Box 71, Strat­ ton, Ont. POW 1N0, or call (807) 483-5883.

This is especially true of parents with children moving into the teen years. Another difficulty at times is pastoral leadership. A shift is happening here. Not that long ago, all of our churches elected local men to lead the church. The chosen leaders, along with several other ministerial members, would lead the church, donating their time, while they carried on farming. Now many churches are choos­ ing to call pastors from outside their local church. In situations where it is not feasible or the church is unable to provide a fulltime salary, the pastor needs to look for appropriate part-time work, which at times is hard to find. Often this means that our smaller churches are led by young pastors begin­ ning their ministry. After they have gain­ ed some experience and developed some pastoral skills - you guessed it! They are called by one of our larger churches. I sup­ pose that simply proves that large and small churches each have their place.

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Mennonite Central Committee

Canada

SECRETARIAL SUPPORT NEEDED RECEPTIONIST: -Akron, PA OFFICE COORDINATOR: -Project Ploughshares, Burnaby, BC. -Peace Office, Washington, DC -Head Injury Assoc., Saskatoon, SK ADMINISTRATIVE SECRETARY: (Akron & Winnipeg) -Executive Office -Africa Dept. -Urban Ministries -Overseas Services -Peace Section

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT: -Family Services, Winkler, MB -Mozambique -Bangladesh -Refugee Offices, Miami, FL; Washington, DC -East Asia Dept., Akron, PA -Northern Ontario -Middle East/South Asia Dept., Akron, PA FOR MORE INFORMATION about these and other voluntary service opportunities, contact your Provincial MCC office or; MCC CANADA 134 Plaza Drive Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 5K9 (204) 261-6381

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From the Editor FATHERHOOD WE HAVE just celebrated Father’s Day. I was not able to express my love and appreciation to my father directly. He died 4y2 years ago. Lately I have been thinking about him much more and 1 often wish 1 could converse with him again. I don’t have an explanation for this desire unless there is some connection with my becoming a grandfather a few months ago. Perhaps the progression of genera­ tions forward reminds us of the progression of generations in our past. We are like links in a chain of life. I remember my father as a man dedicated to his family. He loved to work, and worked hard as long as he was able. His formal educa­ tion ended after grade three, when he was needed to guide the horses harrowing the fields on his parents’ farm. He was pleased to see his children receive an education that had been denied him. Father was a man of few words. We learned to sense his approval or disapproval of our actions, and developed a healthy respect for him. At the same time 1 grew up with a feeling of security and well­ being, the result of his concern and love for us. Although 1 did not often hear my father pray, 1 somehow knew he was a praying man. His prayers have been effective in the lives of his children. His love for music and singing has also been passed on to his family, a heritage that has blessed our lives. In his later years a series of strokes left Father increasingly han­ dicapped. The time came when he could no longer tend to his yard and fruit trees, or his building hobbies. His active mind and spirit felt imprisoned in a body that could not respond to his wishes. He bore his handicap patiently and did not complain. We are thankful the Lord solved that problem by allowing Dad to pass through the veil that separates this life from the eternal. 1 am deeply grateful for the father that God gave me. By his characteristics he made it easy for me to relate to God as my Father. The love, faithfulness, concern, respect, security and provision 1 ex­ perienced with my father are also attributes of God’s character. What if my father had not loved me? Or neglected, abandoned or abused me? Could 1 have developed a healthy concept of God as my Father? Fathers, we must help our children by exercising our fatherhood responsibilities faithfully. May God give us wisdom and strength for this task. —M.H.

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GRADUATION THIS TIME of year is marked by various graduation ceremonies. High schools, colleges, universities and professional schools recognize those students who have successfully completed a prescribed or chosen program of studies. We want to add our congratulations and best wishes to all the graduates in our Conference family. Graduation is an end. Studies are finished; books can be flung aside; and schedules are obsolete! You have come to the end, the last page of the last chapter is done. What began as an exciting adventure has become for many a drudgery to be endured. But you have persisted, you have “hung in there” and you have climbed to the top of your mountain. The pain of the past is overshadowed by the exhilaration you feel at the moment of graduation. Graduation is also a door or a gate. It marks a passage from one phase of life to another. Life keeps moving on. We hope that our experiences and the knowledge gained in the past somehow make us better equipped to handle the challenges of the future. Graduation is also a beginning. It may be the beginning of a career, or the preparation for another course of studies. When one thing ends another begins. You need to evaluate carefully the opportunities before you and to choose wisely the path to take. Peter has some advice for all of us to help us pass “with honors” the final graduation at the end of life on earth. He says, “Make every effort to add to your faith, goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ...and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:5-8,11). No graduation can compare with that one! —M.H.

WHY I AM GOING TO THE CONVENTION ASIDE FROM my duties as editor of The Messenger 1 have other reasons why 1 am going to the Convention in Regina: • 1 want to witness the business sessions of the Conference, to get an overall view of what God has done through our service to Him and to each other. 1 want to get a feel of where we are going. • I enjoy the family spirit, and look forward to meeting people, renewing acquaintances and making new friends. It helps me develop a sense of the larger body of which 1 am a part. • I want to help demonstrate that we are now a national Con­ ference. Our presence in Regina in large numbers will help to focus that perspective and to encourage growth.

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• 1 recognize an inner need to be inspired and challenged, especial­ ly in the area of prayer, which is the 1989 Convention theme. The Word of God and prayer are our two offensive weapons, and 1 want to learn to use prayer more effectively in the battle against evil. • 1 don’t want to miss the excitement of Convention. When representatives gather from all our churches and from our mission fields, 1 can’t help but get excited. Your reasons for coming to the Convention may be different from mine, and better, too. The important thing is that you and I will be there, together. And God has promised to join us. -M.H. THE MESSENGER

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