The Messenger December 7, 1990

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EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE

VOL. 28 NO. 23

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DEC. 7/90

The Moderator speaks ■ ■ ■

EVERYTHING IS PERMISSIBLE, BUT . . by Harvey Plett

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o if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (Jn. 8:36, NIV). This is one of the great truths of the Good News of Christ - Jesus sets us free. Paul picks up that theme of freedom in Christ in 1 Corinthians 8-10 and Galatians, as does Peter in his first epistle. Being free in Christ is looked at in various ways. For some it suggests that because forgiveness is in Christ the Christian is under no obligation to any law. For these, any suggestion that the Christian is under obligation or duty is criticized as being legalistic. For others being free means I can do as I please without any consequences. To these, being free means being without restraints.

'"Freedom in Christ has a double significance: free from sin and the power of the devil and free to obey Jesus Christ. ” To be free in Christ means tht we have been set free from the power of sin. We no longer need to obey its passions and desires. We are free to not sin. To be free in Christ means that we are freed from the tyranny of the powers of evil. The prince of this world had us in his grasp until by faith we ac­ cepted the forgiveness in Christ. By Christ’s shed blood the powers of evil were broken and we were freed and are free from submitting to them. Thus the freedom in Christ has a double significance: free from sin and the power of the devil and free to obey Jesus Christ. The idea that freedom in Christ means that I am free to do as I please is an untruth. That kind of freedom is license to sin and bondage to self. Freedom in Christ has ethical implications for the Christian. The Ten Commendments, the Sermon on the Mount, and Jesus’ statement, “if you love me keep my commandments,” describe the obligatory ethics and lifestyle of the Christian. In addition to these prescribed ethics we face the question of the ethical implications of being free in Christ in the areas of our life that are not prescribed or proscribed as just noted. I in­ vite you to think with me on this question. Paul says “All things are permissible, but not all things are helpful” (1 Cor. 10:23). The first guide for the right use of our freedom in Christ in the non-prescribed area of action is the principle of helpfulness. I say I am free to do a particular thing, and Paul says you are right, but before you jump, remember, “not all things are helpful.” When Paul says not all things are helpful he may have in view the effect on oneself. Much more he has in view the ef­ fect on the church, in its mission outreach and nurturing of the body. The context of 1 Corinthians 10 makes this clear. Paul, of course, is not talking about an obvious sinful prac­ tice. What he is saying is that even though an action is per­ missible it does not follow that it is appropriate or right. When we are free in Christ we do not only ask. Is this action right or wrong? We must also ask. Will the contemplated ac­ tion build up the faith of my brothers and sisters in Christ? If PAGE 2

it doesn’t, Paul says, then refrain from doing it. At that point it becomes an inappropriate action and sinful in that context. That puts a heavy responsibility on each of us to examine our actions in light of their consequences for our fellow church members. The right course of action is that which builds up. Are you asking, “What is the will of God?” Here you have an answer. If it builds the body of Christ it is the will of God. One further question that needs clarification is, “What is meant with the phrase, ‘build up’?” Its meaning seems almost self-evident. But let me illustrate. Is your talk gossip, idle chatter, or does it enhance understanding and encourage? Will your contemplated activity lead others to greater faithfulness or will it lead to questioning? Does your action manifest true Biblical teaching or does it leave it unclear? The meaning of the phrase is well expressed in the words of Leon Morris when he says, “There are some things which are not expressly for­ bidden, but whose results are such as to rule them out for the believer.” Paul further expounds the principle of the freedom of the Christian in 1 Corinthians 6:12 with these words, “Everything is permissible for me but I will not be mastered by anything.” Another translation says, “I will not be enslaved by anything.” Both translations underline the concept that the issue at hand is not wrong but the Christian will not be mastered or controlled by it. Paul is not talking about things that are wrong per se. He is discussing food in connection with the statement. What he is trying to tell us is that whenever something controls us or has mastery over us it becomes wrong. If we are free in Christ we are free to not allow anything to master us.

‘■'Will the contemplated action build up the faith of my brothers and sisters in Christ? If it doesn % Paul says, then refrain from doing it. ” This raises the question, “What are some things that may enslave us?” Let me hazard a few suggestions. What happens if you have to miss your coffee break? if you have to cancel your golf game? your afternoon nap? Taking this a step further we may ask. Are you willing to give up some of your time to teach Sunday school? help in club? help with the Big Brother/Sister program in your com­ munity? How enslaved are we to using our time for ourselves rather than for the church or needy? The question is not a matter of sinful action or activity but placing the benefit and welfare of others over selfish interests. In addition to these two guides on what it means to be free in Christ, Paul adds a third one in 1 Corinthians 8:9. He says, “Be careful, however, that the exercise of your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak.” This is a further conditioning of freedom for the sake of the welfare of others. In this case it is the weak. In the just-mentioned passage, the THE MESSENGER

issue being discussed had to do with eating meat offered to idols. Paul says we know that idols are nothing, for there is only one God, the Father of all things. However, there are some who do not have this insight or have not developed to the stage where they see it this way. Therefore when they eat the meat they eat it as an act of idol worship and that is sin. The weak eat because they see one eat for whom it is merely food and in following that example, without having the right understanding, they sin. Here the act of freedom is eating the meat offered to idols as only meat without any further con­ notations. For the sake of the weak, for whom eating the meat is more than merely eating food, Paul says the Corin­ thians are to refrain from eating. Paul goes on to say that food does not bring us closer to God. We are no better if we eat or if we do not eat. One is to consider what his action will do to the other person. It is not the act that makes the difference in this case but the conse­ quences. Our freedom in Christ is conditioned by the weaker brother. It should be noted that in 1 Corinthians 10, Paul goes on to argue that Christians should not attend the pagan temple feasts for that identifies them with the demons being

“One would like to believe that no one would use his freedom in Christ to justify evil. Paul and Peter both warn against it.” worshipped there. A legitimate question arises out of this, “Does it mean that whenever somebody opposes something I do, I must refrain because I will be hurting the weaker brother?” No, that is not what Paul is suggesting. Consider two examples: Paul exhorts Peter for no longer eating with the Gentiles when Jews appeared from Jerusalem (Gal. 2:11-15). He had Timothy circumcised but not Titus. These examples are instructive as we seek to find our way on when to refrain and when not to refrain. In Peter’s case it was the question of integrity of the action of Peter and the Jews with him. Paul says they acted insincerely and therefore he withstood them. Thus one guide is the sincerity of the reaction to my action. Is it a matter of conscience for the person or is it not? When it is not then one may proceed. When unclear, proceed cautiously. The last thing you want to do is to hurt someone or make it difficult for someone’s faith. In the case of Timothy and Titus it appears the issue was the difference in the circumstances. On the one hand, it helped Paul reach out to the Jews; in the other case it didn’t play a role.His guide was the welfare of others, not what he could permit himself to do without sinning. Thus when you hurt a person’s faith you are doing the wrong thing. A summary of this principle as a guide for the action of the one free in Christ is found in 1 Corinthians 9:19, where we read, “Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everybody, to win as many as possible.” Paul’s freedom in Christ meant he was free to do those things that would best draw people to Christ. It is well to note again that the activity in view is not sinful in itself. In Galatians 5:13 we have a further exhortation about the freedom we have in Christ. There Paul says, “You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather serve one another in love.” Paul is concerned that some will say that since we are free in Christ we can do as we please - “It is my own business what I do.” Again Paul calls us back to the proper use of our freedom. Only what is for the good of my fellow believers is appropriate and right. Paul is concerned that some will go as far as to justify sin with their freedom in Christ. Peter expresses the same concern DECEMBER 7, 1990

when he says, “Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God” (1 Peter 2:16). One would like to believe that no one would use his freedom in Christ to justify evil. Paul and Peter both warn against it and therefore anticipate the possibility of this hap­ pening. That means we need to guard against that as well. Perhaps one of the most obvious ways we could do this is in pursuing our own course of action without having regard for other Christians. One may justify his actions by saying this is a private matter, or the weak are not to judge the strong ac­ cording to Romans 14. We may also use it as a cover for evil when we argue, “It doesn’t bother my conscience.” We know, of course, that just because someone’s conscience doesn’t bother him does not make the action engaged in appropriate or right. Other criteria must be brought to bear on the matter. In any case, though, one should never go against his conscience. If your conscience is more sensitive than other people’s, it is wise to adopt the principle, “Others may, I cannot,” until you have had time to test your standard of conscience against the Word of God. Praise God, we are free in Christ. This freedom gives us liberty to use our freedom for the upbuilding of the Church. Paul says that we are free in Christ. This means we are free 1. to live so that we may win as many as possible to Christ (1 Cor.9:19); 2. to do all to the glory of God (1 Cor. 10:31); 3. to give no offense to anyone (1 Cor. 10:32-33); 4. to seek the good of our neighbour (1 Cor. 10:24); 5. to be an example to fellow believers (1 Cor. 11:1). This is what Jesus meant when He said they will know you are my disciples if you love one another (Jn. 13:35) or, as Paul put it, on this hangs the whole law, if you love one another (Gal.5:14-15). It is our freedom in Christ that makes this kind of love possible. And so I remind us once more, “All things are permissible, but . . .” ■

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CHRISTMAS IS Bewildered, jumbled, December introduced, Looking, grasping, at times proclaiming, Comparing, measuring, often guessing. Which gift is reduced? Shall I give, and in what way? Is my mind locked, or will I hear. Help, and not remain sightless. Befriend those astray?

Accomplished? No, not so. This essence of affection won’t proceed Without attempt, a brighter vision Of goodwill to them that want to know.

Hot stoves, decorating, gift drive, At times I feel forced To sign the cards and ribbon the wrap For what must be given. Holy One! It’s all for Your birth; Give to me all Your gaiety. Though I love this spinning festivity. Assist me to relax in Your mirth. Alfred Dueck Morris, Man.

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SBC Plans to Revitalize Collegiate

Letters To the editor: I’m sorry to have to bother you like this. With Christmas approaching rapidly, 1 know you must be very busy. But I was hoping you could help me out with something. 1 wanted to send Santa Claus a letter, but 1 don’t trust Canada Post. However, I’m certain our postal service will ensure prompt delivery of The Messenger and since Santa is into goodness and such. I’m certain he reads The Messenger. Could you please print my letter to him so he can read it in the next shipment to The North Pole. Thank you! Dear Santa, Dear Santa Claus, You brighten up this season every year. With Your folly laugh and tinkling bells You fill our lives with cheer. We wonder at the miracle You manage Christmas Eve — reaching every home on earth. It's hard but we believe.

Of course it's true! We can't forget the meaning of this day — eternal gifts of love You bring upon Your reindeer sleigh.

I thank You, Sir, for all You give to me this time of year, but could You, Santa, please remove the question that I fear? Why is it that You seem to miss the poor and homeless ones? How can You promise peace on earth, and then distribute guns? Why are You always laughing, Sir, While lonely people weep? Why do they choose Your holiday to put themselves to sleep?

This spirit that we speak about — why does it have to end? Can't You make it last beyond this season of pretend?

Today I stopped and wondered if Your story's really true. I heard another story once — it didn't mention You. It spoke of gifts, of foy, of peace, and love forevermore. It promised "No more suicide" It promised “No more war." Trust in you or me can't solve the problems that I face Maybe if I'd fust believe That God once walked this place...

I could start by changing me, by changing my belief. ’Cause if this other story's true then, Santa, you're a thief. Sincerely His, Jason Dueck

Morris, Man.

The Board of Directors of the Steinbach Bible College has decided to come to grips with declining enrollment in the Collegiate department. After peaking in 1985-86 with an enrollment of 147 in grades 10 to 12, there has been a steady decrease, resulting in a cur­ rent enrollment of only 86. The Board has appointed a committee to study the situation and prepare recommen­ dations for action. The committee, under the leadership of Ed Reimer, conducted a sym­ posium on November 10. The 45 people pre­ sent (parents, staff, alumni and friends of the Collegiate) agreed strongly that the high school department should continue to operate. They also felt that enrollment could be brought back up again. The committee then prepared a list of recommendations which was presented to the College Board on November 30. All of the recommendations were accepted. It was agreed that the Collegiate should develop its own identity. Therefore the process of choos-

ing a name will be underway shortly. In the area of programming, French will be introduced in September 1991. The staff has been asked to continue to strengthen the music, drama and physical education pro­ grams, in both the curricular and extracunicular areas. The Administration has been asked to prepare a public relations plan for the January Board meeting. A fund-raising drive will be initiated to finance the Collegiate promotion effort. Three parents of current students will be added to the Collegiate committee, which will serve in an advisory capacity to the Collegiate Dean. The committee will also develop a mis­ sion statement and revised objectives for the Collegiate. Ed Reimer reported a renewed optimism concerning the Collegiate, its role today and its future. There is definitely a place for a school which integrates education with prac­ tical Christian living.

MCC CANADA invites applicants for DIRECTOR: PEACE and SOCIAL CONCERNS PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: • peace education within the MCCC constituency • respond to issues where Biblical peace is relevant • foster relationship and dialogue with church and peace groups • some administration KEY QUALIFICATIONS INCLUDE; • faith in Jesus Christ and constituent member • understanding of Anabaptist peace perspective and MCC constituency • Christian service experience (North American and/or Overseas) • communication and organizational skills APPLICATIONS: by February 15, 1991. IDEAL STARTING DATE: April 1, 1991. CONTACT: Ed Barkman or Personnel Services. MCC Canada 134 Plaza Drive Winnipeg, MB R2T 5K9 (204) 261-6381

NEEDED

GERMAN HYMNBOOKS If any congregations have a surplus of German hymnbooks in good condition, Glaubenslieder or Gesangbuch, please notify: Johnny Loewen Box 56, R.R. 1 Morris, Man. ROG 1K0 Ph. (204)746-8468

CONTRIBUTORS: Jeff and Laural Ann Plett (Prairie Rose) are pastoring a church in Seesen, Germany under the EMC Board of Missions. Ed and Joy Loewen (Fort Garry) are ministering to international students in Win­ nipeg, Manitoba. THANK YOU to all who contributed poems and stories for this Christmas Messenger. We appreciate your service. COVER: Two lighted spruce trees lend a festive air to Steinbach’s little chapel beside the No. 12 highway.

THE MESSENGER is published every other week by The Evangelical Mennonite Conference Board of Education and Publication, Box 1268, Steinbach, Manitoba, ROA 2A0. Second Class Mall; 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. PAGE 4

THE MESSENGER

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A true story

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A Christmas rose blooms in the North by Doris Penner

The rose is one of the most beautiful sym­ bols of Jesus, denoting something rare and precious. It is often offered as a gift, and when we accept it we indeed possess some­ thing of great price.

Lo, how a rose e’er blooming From tender stem has come . . .

I had sung the carol often, but never before in Inuktituk. The melody sharply brought back memories of past Christmases at home, and I shut my eyes and prayed fervently for a mo­ ment that the plane would be in tomorrow. Transportation to the little outpost villages along the lonely coast of Labrador was en­ tirely dependent on weather conditions. If the day was fair, the plane would be in early, landing on skis on the ice-covered harbor, and I would board the small four-seater for the first part of my trip home. For once the church was warm — wood in the drum stove set in the centre of the building had been stoked with special care in preparation for the school Christmas concert. Not that we needed extra heat that night — parka-clad bodies filled every bench tightly and packed out the entrance, generating waves of heat on their own. 1 got up somewhat apprehensively to sing with my fellow teachers — I knew any flaws in my pronunciation would easily be detected by the people who spoke the Eskimo language every day. But 1 was, if not ap­ prehensive, at least burdened for another reason. My eyes ran over the rows of bench­ es and noted the children with glowing expec­ tant faces peering from beneath fur-trimmed hoods, and other faces lined with age, belong­ ing to men and women bent with years of toil in a harsh climate. Lo, how a rose e'er blooming ... 1 sang. Living in the frozen North, where nothing blooms for eight months of the year (we had seen the last bit of moss disappear under the snow several months earlier), what did these people know of a rose? Would the analogy

DECEMBER 7, 1990

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(Sreetinge from tljE (Office staff! of the rose so beautifully outlined in the old carol help them better understand the character and identity of Christ, the Saviour? I well knew if any of these humble hardy folk would receive a delicate freshly-cut rose — something most of them had never seen except in pictures — it would be regarded with a passionate delight and cherished beyond measure. It came a flow’ret bright amid the cold of winter When half-spent was the night . . . I thought of the snow that had drifted into every crag of the rocky coast and of the in­ tense chill that had settled over the land and crept into the small houses where fierce little fires tried hard to keep it out, not always suc­ cessfully. Then a small - almost fleeting - in-

sight took root: Perhaps because the contrast between the fragility of the flower and the harsh bleak land was so stark, the beauty of the rose would be all the more marked. I went home the next day and got involved in the bustle of Christmas preparations. In the shopping mall, where bodies too were tightly squeezed against each other so one could hardly breathe, I spotted a rose in the win­ dow of the florist shop against the lush background of a sea of other flowers. Somehow the rose didn’t seem half as lovely as the picture I had in my mind of a deep red rose laid against the pristine whiteness of the snow. I knew the beauty and uniqueness of Christ would be very well understood by the peo­ ple of my village in the frozen North.

LOGOS - Biblical Training by Extension LOGOS had its beginning with Johannes Reimer. Converted from an atheistic background in the Soviet Union he was able to emigrate and study in Europe and North America. In 1985 God gave him a vision for a training program for Soviet believers. The Lord has blessed Johannes and those who joined him in this effort. Already hun­ dreds of potential leaders have been enroll­ ed in theological education by extension courses (TEE) and in October a Bible institute was opened in South Russia. The work is done on an interdenominational basis, although most of the staff have a Mennonite background. In addition, there have been leadership seminars in Germany and in California for im­ migrants from the Soviet Union. Among those who have served in these seminars are Samuel Gerber (Switzerland), David Ewert, Viktor Reimer, and J.B. Toews from North America, and Peter Penner, now from Germany. Johannes Reimer is the director of LOGOS

International. There is also a LOGOS branch in California and recently one was organized in British Columbia. In British Columbia we started one year ago with an Interim LOGOS Committee. In October we were able to register and received our own tax number. We had our first official annual meeting on November 5, 1990, with about 50 interested people from about 10 churches attending. A seven-member board has been elected representing six different churches. Our purpose is to encourage prayer and financial support for the work of LOGOS - an exciting challenge in our time. Members of the board would be glad to give further informa­ tion about LOGOS in your churches. Any inquiries and financial support may be sent to; LOGOS BTE Society *'4-33020 Maclure Rd. Abbotsford, B.C. V2S 4N3, Canada Bill A. Wiebe

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Leona Dueck Penner

Meditation on the Star of Bethlehem This morning at the breakfast table, I men­ tioned to my young adult son that I needed to write a Christmas article for this column but had no fresh ideas. To me it seemed that all the stories 1 knew, had already been told. And he, in an effort to be helpful, suggested that 1 listen to a song from one of his records which contained the line: “Maybe the Star of Bethlehem wasn’t a star at all.” It could be that the line was completely “off the track,” he said, but just possibly, it would stimulate my thinking. Well, 1 followed his advice and listened to the song. It turned out to be one of those melan­ choly but beautiful ballads, composed and sung by a local folk artist who crooned on about waking up in the morning and finding that all his dreams and lovers had gone. His life was empty. All he had left were his “memories of happiness” which “lingered on” but which gave him very little comfort as he contemplated the dawning of a new day. Then he noticed the light of a lamp shining down the hallway and, for a mo­ ment, hope bloomed as he remembered the Star of Bethlehem. But soon he was again overcome by skepticism and he concludes his song, more depressed than ever: “Maybe the Star of Bethlehem wasn’t a star at all.” As 1 thought about the sadness of that song — the last line in particular — it occuned to me that 2,000 years after the birth of Christ, people still do have reason to be melancholy and to doubt the promise of that star, a star which heralded the coming of the Light of the World, the Prince of Peace, the Lord of Love, a star which promised peace and goodwill to all people but which seems, at first glance, to have changed the world very little. Indeed, things seem to have gotten worse. All around us, in the “hallways” of our world, we see evidence of war and lack of love. There are so many broken families, so many people caught up in life-destroying poverty, so much conflict between the races, so many countries threatening to go to war . . . And even within ourselves and within the churches, in spite of our best in­ tentions and our deep commitment to the one who told us to live at peace with each other, we find attitudes and inclinations which are self-centred and which lead to conflict and division rather than to love and peace.

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In such settings, the light of the star often seems far away, barely visible at the end of a tunnel, and so, like the folk singer, we are tempted to despair. And yet, if we look at the world with eyes of faith — through the eyes of our hearts — we catch glimpses of the light here and there: We see it shine in the changed life of someone who has experienced the saving grace of Jesus, we see it reflected in the generous forgiv­ ing love of a friend, we see it haloed ’round an outstretched

hand offering a bowl of soup to a hungry person, we see it glowing in the eyes of a group of young people who leave safe homes in the country to spend a week on the streets of the inner city in order to better under­ stand what it means to be poor and to find out for themselves that the colour of your skin makes a difference in how you are treated, and we “see” it flow from the voices of people of peace who say “no” to war in the Persian Gulf by pledging to use their cars less so that no one will need to die fighting over oil in the sands of a faraway desert. These are the rays of light which assure us of the continuing presence of the Star of Bethlehem. They beckon us onwards and lead us to uncover our own lamps so that they, too, shine bravely in the darkness which sunounds us. This Christmas, may our lives reflect the light of that long ago star so that others who, like the songwriter, are on the verge of los­ ing hope, will be comforted and encouraged to journey onwards towards a brighter New Year.

Evanselical Mennonite Conference BOX 1268 STEINBACH MANITOBA ROA 2A0 / PH (204)326-6401

December 3, 1990

The Rt. Hon. Brian Mulroney Prime Minister of Canada Ottawa, Canada

Dear Sir: The Evangelical Mennonite Conference is one of Canada’s historic peace churches. This message comes to you from the December 1 meeting of our Conference Council, representing about six thousand members in fifty congregations.

As followers of Jesus Christ we are committed to the Biblical ideals of love and non-violence. We believe it is our calling to witness and to work for peace wherever possible. On various occasions through the years, we have noted Canada’s distinct role in international affairs. Canada has earned international respect for its commitment to finding negotiated, non-violent solutions to international conflict. We commend our government for this constructive and exemplary influence on international relationships.

During the last several months, however, we have become increasingly concerned about the growing militaristic role of Canada’s involvement in the Iraq-Kuwait conflict. We urge our government to again take a leading role in working towards a negotiated, non-violent solution in that situation. We realize the issues are complex and the choices difficult. Therefore, we commit ourselves to support you in prayer, asking God to give you wisdom and boldness to lead our country well. Sincerely, Evangelical Mennonite Conference Per Harvey Plett, Moderator

THE MESSENGER

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Kleefeld, Manitoba

Conference Council Approves Goals for 1991, Works on Constitution Revision “I Know Whom 1 Have Believed,” the song led by Gordon Schellenberg to open the Con­ ference Council meeting on December 1, set the tone for the day. Peter K. Bartel, minister at the Kleefeld church, based his fitting meditation on Ephesians 2:14-20, where Paul prays that the believers will be strengthened with power by the Spirit and comprehend the great love of Christ. Part of the day involved hearing the goals for 1991 of the various boards and commit­ tees. Delegates were given an opportunity to ask questions and make suggestions in each area. It was obvious that, in general, the boards and committees are conscientious in their mandates and that the overall ministry of the Conference will move forward in 1991. The Board of Finance presented a budget for 1991 of $1,434,565, an increase of 2.2% over the 1990 budget. Since there is still a considerable shortfall in receipts this year, the Board of Finance recommended that the 1991 budget be approved provided that the 1990 disbursements were met. The motion that was passed almost unanimously, approv­ ed the proposed budget for 1991, with the condition that, if there is a shortfall in 1990,

the 1991 budget be reduced by that amount. The Council did a major piece of work in giving final reading and approval to two sec­ tions of the revised constitution. All churches have been given an opportunity to go over the proposals previously, and to send in sug­ gested amendments. Five congregations responded. Their proposed changes were for­ warded back to all churches for study prior to the Council meeting. Six amendments had been received for the Conference Administration section, two of which were approved. Following the vote on the amendments the whole section was ap­ proved by a vote of 140 to 5. The General Board presented to the Council a plan for the transfer of Conference administration, bridg­ ing the change between the old and the new. It is expected that the process will take two years. One of the churches had recommended that more work be done on the Church Ad­ ministration section before there was further discussion and a vote. They wanted the com­ mittee to clarify which parts were binding on all churches and which were guidelines. However, the delegates wished to proceed

Harvey Plett, Moderator, and Gordon Kornelsen at the Conference Council meeting. and agreed to table this motion. The Council dealt with 32 proposed amendments to the Church Administration section. All but three of these were approv­ ed. The section was then approved by a vote of 113 to 2. An editorial committee has been selected that will prepare both of these sections for publication. They will go into effect at the An­ nual Convention in July 1991. In the final item of business, the Council approved a letter to be sent to Prime Minister Mulroney, expressing our concern over the crisis in the Persian Gulf. The letter is printed elsewhere in this paper. Pangs of hunger were well taken care of by ladies of the Klcefeld church. Lunch consisted of a hearty soup, brown bread and butter, dessert, tea and coffee. Delegates enjoyed a faspa of buns, cold cuts, cheese, pickles, jam, and a variety of squares before leaving for home.

Representatives from five churches fetlowship at one of the lunch tables.

The ministerial and delegates attend to Conference business at the Council meeting.

WHERE DOES THE MONEY GO?

Evangelical Mennonite Conference

In 1991 each dollar given to the Conference will be divided as shown:

BUDGET FOR 1991

All Others 1.3C

General Board 4.8C

---------- 1 General Conference Expenses 5.3C

Education and Publication 6.9C

Board of Missions ................ Board of Education and Publication General Conference Expenses General Board ...... Youth Committee ...... . . Social Concerns Committee ...... Music Committee Ministerial Examination Committee Estates Committee Revolving Building Loan Fund TOTAL

DECEMBER 7, 1990

$1,171,335 99,400 76,450 68,880 6,100 500 500 300 6,100 5,000 ’ $1,434,565

PAGE 7

I Went Looking for Christmas I went looking for Christmas. I looked at the mall. I found decorations and lights. Busy people rushing about. And Santa with a child on his knee Who wants the world. But I didn’t find Christmas. I went looking for Christmas. I looked at home. I found presents under the tree, Cookies that Mother had made, And people with Christmas joy in their hearts. But I didn’t find Christmas.

Mila and the children join me in conveying our very best wishes for a joyous and festive holiday season. In communities throughout Canada, family and friends are united through the bonds of love and fellowship that exist the world over. An occasion filled with hope and promise, this celebration reminds us of the blessings we share as Canadians and encourages the spirit of goodwill and generosity to flourish among us. Our warmest wishes to each of you at this special time, and may the coming year fill your homes with peace and every happiness. OTTAWA 1990

I went looking for Christmas. I looked at church. I found people singing carols. Children reciting and singing in the Christmas program. And everyone wishing “Merry Christmas.” But still, I didn’t find Christmas. I went looking for Christmas. I looked in my Bible. I found the simple setting, A barn and animals in a little town called Bethlehem. I found the simple gifts. Sheep; gold, frankencense and myrrh; And a Saviour. I knew I had found what I was looking for. I had found Christmas. Cheri Dueck Steinbach, Man.

International Visitor Exchange Program Needs Sponsors and Hosts

AKRON, Pa. — Sponsors and hosts are need­ ed beginning in February 1991 for the second half of Mennonite Central Committee’s (MCC) oneyear International Visitor Exchange Program (IVEP). IVEP is a one-year cultural exchange for young people from Africa, Asia, Latin America and Europe. They usually spend six months at two placements arranged by MCC in either Canada or the United States. This year 96 IVEP participants from 30 coun­ tries are living and working in North America. Their first six-month semester will end in early February 1991 when the participants will move to a new placement for another six months. Participants are qualified for work as recep­ tionists, secretaries, carpenters, cabinet makers, masons, plus work in greenhouses and on vegetable and fruit farms, among other vocations. Sponsors provide work for 40 hours a week and room, board and spending money for the partici­ pant. Sponsors also arrange for hosts to give the visitor a “home away from home” for the length of the placement. Sponsor and host can be the same person or family. If you would like to sponsor or host an IVEP participant, contact: MCC, Box 500, Akron, PA 17501-0500, Phone (717) 859-1151; or MCC Canada, 134 Plaza Drive, Winnipeg, MB R3T 5K9, (204) 261-6381; or your local regional or pro­ vincial office. PAGE 8

PRINCPAUADMINISTRATOR required for the Winnipeg Mennonite Elementary School for August 1991. The school provides a progressive educational program in a Christian environment. The school has a student enrollment of approx­ imately 300 students, a transportation system of eight buses; a full- and part-time teaching, support and transportation staff of over 25. The candidate should have strong leadership, communication and relationships skills and have a proven record of classroom teaching, school ad­ ministration and an Anabaptist faith commitment. Curtis Penner

MCC Assignment

Curt Penner of Steinbach, Man., is beginning a two-year MCC assignment in Akron, Pa., where he will work as a truck driver and canner with the MCC meat­ canning crew. Penner was last employed as a meat cutter with Penner Foods in Steinbach. He is a member of Ridgewood (Man.) Evangelical Mennonite Church. His parents are Martha and Russel Penner of Steinbach.

Resumes should be mailed to arrive by January 31, 1991 to: The Principal Search Committee Winnipeg Mennonite Elementary Schools, Inc. 26 Columbus Crescent Winnipeg, Manitoba R3K 0C6

MCI Concert A special highlight of the Mennonite Collegiate In­ stitute’s Christmas concerts this year will be the performance of Vivaldi’s Gloria by MCI’s Con­ cert Choir and members of the Mennonite Com­ munity Orchestra December 20 at 7:30 p.m. and December 21 at 1:30 p.m. THE MESSENGER

I

Missions GERMANY 4

Baptism Celebrated A Church Highlight For most churches in our E.M.C. Con­ ference, baptisms are normal occurences. In flipping through The Messenger, I noticed that one church was privileged to baptize 20 young people in one baptismal service! “Wow!” 1 thought, “It must be thrilling having that many young people wanting to publicly show that they belong to Christ and His Church.” 1 was impressed! In our small church here in Seesen, Ger­ many, we dream of being able to baptize so many at one time. People are resistant to the Gospel here. We had not been able to cele­ brate a baptism in a very long time. And so it was a special privilege and highlight for me as a pastor and for us as a church to be able to baptize two individuals on May 13. Karl Herschelmann and Chris Kaldenberg had completed a lengthy baptismal course and were now ready to openly identify with Christ and our small fellowship of believers. 1 asked Karl Herschelmann to share his testimony with you. He was glad to do it and hopes you will rejoice together with him for God’s working in his life. Jeff Plett

A Testimony of God’s Leading in My Life: Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, I am not one who can name the exact date of his conversion. For me, giving my life over to Christ was a process. I remember thinking about God in my childhood years. As an eight-year-old I memorized a number of prayers. I did, however, not only pray memorized prayers. I remember praying par­ ticularly in stormy weather for God’s protec­ tion over my grandfather, who worked as a logger. 1 even prayed for the safety of my grandparents’ cow in the pasture! I learned about God in our school, in our confirmation classes and later on in the evangelical youth organization presently known as the YMCA (Young Men’s Christian Association). However, when I began my secondary educa­ tion my interest in spiritual things came to a standstill. All my efforts were concentrated on becoming a successful forest ranger. Only after repeated visits from deaconesses, who later gave me copies of the weekly periodical “Frohe Botschaft” (Good News), was my spiritual life reawakened. 1 began regularly attending church services and Bible studies that were held in a small inconspicuous room in the church. There I first learned about Christ’s sacrificial love poured out on behalf of sinful mankind. Here I understood for the first time that Christ became man to save the DECEMBER 7, 1990

*5 :: .4? ■

Vi,...

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* Left to right: Karl Herschelmann, Pastor Jeff Plett, Chris Kaldenberg

Chris Kaldenberg was baptized by Pastor Plett in the Free Church in Bad Gandersheim.

lost world. I learned about the necessity of personally giving one’s life over to Christ and about the assurance of salvation. Was I glad to hear this good news! 1 began to regularly read devotional material and to listen to Christian radio programs, in­ cluding music programs produced by the Janz Team. I was then living in what was formerly known as the German Democratic Republic (East Germany). 1 ordered Christian literature from West Germany. In 1979 I was able to move to West Germany and was then able to take part in a Bible correspondence course without fear of being mistreated. This course, among other things, helped me understand that my child baptism was in actuality no bap­ tism because it was impossible for me to believe in Christ as an infant. The desire to be baptized upon my confes­

sion of faith in Christ was awakened in me as I took part in special baptism classes in our church. Actually I first started attending these classes, not with the intent of being baptized myself. Through my participation I only wanted to encourage a fellow brother in the Lord to be baptized! However, my faith in Christ was deepened through the teaching, love, and example of my pastor and others in the church. Also contributing to my deepened faith was the fact that I was asked to help lead the mid-week Bible study. And so at the end of the baptismal classes, when my pastor asked me whether 1 wanted to be baptized, I was convinced that God had led me in a very real way. I was baptized and to­ day I am very happy to be safe and secure in my Savior’s arms. Karl Herschelmann

Annual Meeting of EMC Missions Auxiliary On November 30, 1990, the membership of the EMC Missions Auxiliary held their an­ nual meeting in the Steinbach E.M. Church. The MA is an organization whose purpose is to propagate the gospel through expertise in feasibility evaluation, financial assistance, pro­ ject development management and other needs that may arise in missions. At this year’s annual meeting the member­ ship was informed that the following projects were sponsored in 1990: Bible Project with Wycliffe Bible Translators Printing Projects of AIMM Missionary Vehicle Loan Fund ZP-50 Phase I “Singing Hills” Bus

$ 2,000 11,000 2,000 1,688 5,000 $21,688

The membership authorized the executive committee to proceed with the Radio ZP-50 project fund-raising when the license would be granted, and if the Paraguay constituency would affirm their commitment to the project.

A fund-raising committee is in place and a promotional brochure will be printed. Since the ZP-50 project is not ready im­ mediately, the membership directed to spon­ sor two small projects: 1. East Paraguay Radio Project . . .$7,900 This is for radio air time for a daily halfhour program for a year and equipment needed to produce the program. 2. RGBI Radio Project..................... $7,500 This will pay for half of the costs for an auxiliary power plant for the transmitter operated by Rio Grande Bible Institute. Dave P. Loewen, who has been on the MA Executive since MA was organized, com­ pleted his term and did not permit his name to stand for re-election. Eldon Penner of Blumenort was elected to replace Mr. Loewen. Jake L. Dueck of Rosenort was re­ elected for another term. Other members on the executive commit­ tee are Arnold Reimer (Landmark), Harry Fast (Winnipeg) and Burton Loewen (Steinbach). Henri! Klassen

PAGE 9

WINNIPEG

Are We Just Playing Games? Removing Stones By observing the ninety international students and Canadians play­ ing table games and ping pong on November 10 at the Fort Garry church, one may have had reason to think we are simply involved in playing games at church. The evening was filled with happy laughter and noisy chatter. For many of the students it was the first time they had played a Canadian table game or entered a church building or talked to a Christian. Muslims, Hindus, atheists, Buddhists and Christians enjoyed each other’s company while expanding their global vision and knowledge. The students appreciate opportunities to form friendships with Canadians and we want to communicate that we value their cross-cultural friendships and can learn from them. A family from a Muslim tribe in Indonesia, for example, was at the game night. This tribe has been very resistant to the gospel. The husband is working on his post-doctorate and will most likely return to a government post. The only thing he knows about Christians is that they are fanatics. One of our goals is to build a strong bridge of friendship so that someday we will be able to share the gospel with them. Farmers understand that before seed can be planted the ground must be broken up. But even before that, stones must be removed. In the same way, much of our ministry is removing stones — stones of ignorance and misconceptions of Christianity, of pre­ judice and resistance and fear. The church needs planters and harvesters, but also stone removers. If we are to reach the Muslim and Hindu block of people in this world we will need more people who are willing to do the difficult but necessary job of removing stones. Another practical hands-on missions experience we have en­ couraged our church family to become involved in is inviting small groups of students to their homes for a Christmas meal or tea. Most of the students desire to become part of a Canadian family, to be cared for while away from home. We are encouraging our church family and the students to do some fun Christmas things together like decorate a tree, have a gift exchange and sing carols. Along with this we feel it is a wonderful opportunity to share what Christmas is all about from a Biblical perspective. Pray for these 50-60 students who will be special guests and for the Canadian families who will be involved in cross-cultural communication of the Good News of Jesus. Ed and Joy Loewen

Evangelical Mennonite Conference

FINANCIAL UPDATE As of December 1, 1990 DISBURSEMENTS January to November $1,192,039 Projected December 145,000 Total required

1,337,039

RECEIPTS January to November

1,130,814

NEEDED by December 31

$206,225

Regarding the 1991 budget the Conference Council pass­ ed the following motion on December 1: “if the money for the 1990 disbursements is short of the amount needed, then that amount is to be subtracted from the 1991 budget. The boards and committees wiii then have to cut that amount from their budgets.” It was felt that the needs can be met. All churches are requested to send in their contributions by the end of the month so that the books can be closed in the black, and that no cuts will be required in the Conference ministries. PAGE 10

r

Who But God? Who but God loved the world so much that to the earth He would bring, a manger-Child to be our King? Who but God fulfilled this Plan, through the virgin, Mary, to be part of man? Who but God spoke through various methods that He led shepherds aherding their sheep, to Bethlehem to learn of this message deep? Who but God set a star in the sky, to guide the wisemen of the east from afar?

Who but God gathered His love toward us that the Child, Jesus, grew in wisdom as a young man, fulfilled the words of prophecy through His teachings, the healing of physical sickness, and the spiritual healing of sin-ridden souls?

Who but God devised salvation’s plan through the mockery of those despising the knowledge and truth of His Omnipotent Sovereignty? Loved, rejected, hated by all men, the cross intoned our unrighteousness to His Righteousness. No mere man, the manger-Child became Christ the King, Saviour to all mankind; no alienation of race or creed did He reject, for Who but God would love us all, though born into sin we be? Jesus is the True Meaning of Christmas, the Birthday of Celebration to the redemption of mankind. And Who but God, when we ask Him to come into our lives, will He not accept each one with open arms? He will live within our hearts and we will live. Because He is there with us in our hearts and lives each day. Who but God could have loved us. His world, this much! Eleanor Lee Gustaw Riverton, Man. © 1990, All Rights Reserved THE MESSENGER

Messenger News THIRTY-SECOND ANNUAL MISSIONS CONFERENCE Kola, Man.: Did you know . . . that only .2% of the people of Thailand are evangelical Chris­ tians, although there have been missionaries there for more than a hundred years? . . . that if you’re a white person in Guyana, South America, you had better not wear your wedding ring or carry a camera, because they will surely be stolen from you? . . . that, though Paraguay is only 2% evangelical Christian, the number of Christians has more than doubled in the last decade? . . . that half a dozen new EMC church groups have been formed in Canada in the past year? On November 2-4, at our annual missions conference. Bob and Adeline Storey reported on Thailand, Major Stephen and Millicent French on Guyana, South America, Luella Loewen and Sara Loeppky on Paraguay. Walter Reimer, as representative of the EMC Board of Missions, gave a general report. Our guest speaker was Major Stephen French, who, together with his wife Millicent, traveled down from Edmonton, where they are directors of a Salvation Army men’s hostel. A special part of our conference this year was music. There was an adult choir, as well as a children’s choir, and both performed an excellent ministry of music. The youth group also sang and their two short dramas certainly made a point! Every service was well at­ tended, including the Men’s Breakfast and the Ladies’ Fellowship. 1 have tried with the following free verse to express the tone and the message we heard during this missions conference.

A Renewed Vision Becomes A New Responsibility You are the light of the world . . . yes, but . . . before you can be a light, you must be lit. How? I have heard a joyful sound - Jesus saves! I saw the Lord - my personal vision of God.

Seated on a throne - is He on the throne of my life? High and exalted - higher and bigger and greater than I can imagine, and He is in me! Oh, no! I am unclean, unworthy I am nothing, really nothing at all.

Of course not. But He is worthy, worthy of glory, honor and power, the whole earth is full of His glory, and He is in me! Yes, my guilt has been taken away my sins have been atoned for. He touched me - with His Spirit He cleansed me - with His Blood He changed me - transformed me and now I am no longer the same. 1 have heard the voice of the Lord - He has called me I respond (1 struggle to respond) - Here am I, send me.

He says “Go and Tell, Go and Tell Be salt in the earth Be a light in the world.” and it’s no longer I, but Christ in me. Individually we are called but together we strive we pray, we work . . . for the night is coming.

Our hope in the Lord is the source of our strength. We can walk we can run we can soar as the eagle. Rejoice in the Lord, Hallelujah!

Pat Schellenberg

NEW MEMBERS ACCEPTED

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Mount Salem, Ont.: Praise God, He is still at work here in Mount Salem! Three couples were accepted into member­ ship on September 2: Ben and Justina Thiessen, Ben and Helen Friesen and John and Mary Neufeld. Isaac Dyck was accepted as a member on November 4. May the Lord bless and keep you as you work in His vineyard. A program was presented on November 4 by the local mission board, which included the film, “A Man Called Norman.” We were blessed to have revival meetings with Cornie and Tina Loewen from October 31 to November 4. Many people responded. May God grant strength and victory in temp­ tations to those who committed their lives to Him. On November 11, David Friesen express­ ed his desire to follow Jesus. He was baptiz­ ed upon his confession of faith. The Lord grant you strength and wisdom as you serve Him. A Thanksgiving supper of soup and pie was

DECEMBER 7, 1990

David Friesen (right) was bap­ tized on November 11. He is seen here with Pastor Wiibert Friesen.

New members at the Mt. Salem church. Back (left to right): Pastor Wilbert Friesen, Ben Friesen, Ben Thiessen, John Neufeld. Front: Helen Friesen, Justina Thiessen, Mary Neufeld.

served on October 7. We also had a good program, which included a film on what MCC is doing in different lands. We were privileged to have Menno Kroeker here on Sunday morning, September 16. He served with the Word of God. The local MCC staff presented a program in the evening. A SEAN class on Book 2 was started in September, led by Wilbert Friesen, with twelve students attending. We’re having a

good time together. The Aylmer Bible School has opened its doors again. A few members of our church are taking a full course, while others are at­ tending part time. Several different churches are participating in a Singstunde (a time of singing) every Mon­ day evening at the Menno Lodge. Lorna Wall

PAGE 11

Jibbeyrfa/e Ghrislian Sfe/fomship

S^rom our faaii/y to yours —

Ga/gary, ^/berta

C^oy ancf T^eace as we ce/ef>rale Jfis 'J^irf/i

SPECIAL MEETINGS HELD Steinbach, Man.: Two series of special ser­ vices were conducted in our church this fall. The first one was a Sunday-to-Sunday event with Bill McLoed of the Canadian Revival Fellowship. The second series was a mis­ sionary conference held from Friday to Sun­ day, November 23-25, with Fred Friesen from Mountain View Bible College, Didsbury, Alta., as the guest speaker. November 24 saw many guests at the church for a 40th wedding celebration. Ben and Henrietta Friesen were the ones who were celebrating. The program following the lunch included special numbers and a slide presentation, as well as a devotional. Mr. Friesen is the Canadian Secretary for the EMC Board of Missions. For a good while we have contemplated and planned expansion. This has again been activated and a decision is to be made on December 11 on whether to go ahead. Plans call for an edifice on the parking lot side of the existing building, which would house a gym-dining room, kitchen and offices, to name some features. It would also be wheel­ chair accessible. Daue Schel/enberg

Ben and Henrietta Friesen ceiebrated their 40th wedding anniversary at the Steinbach E.M. Church on November 24.

PAGE 12

THANKSGIVING SUPPER ENJOYED

Peace River, Alta.: On October 27 we had a belated Thanksgiving supper in our basement. Not all who were invited came, but we had a good group of 28. The church families did a great job of preparing a delicious turkey dinner, which was enjoyed by all. We had a short devotional and good visiting afterward. We could use some help with our con­ gregational singing. We would like to challenge some young couple, gifted in music and singing, to come and help us. Jobs are likely easier to get here than in some other

areas. I’m involved with the local ministerial ministries and take part in Bible studies with the seniors at the Heritage Tower, visiting and being available at the junior and senior high schools, and writing articles for the local newspaper. We also have weekly prayer fellowships as a ministerial. Thank you for your prayers and please con­ tinue to pray that we’ll have an effective outreach in the community. Daue Dueck

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Left to right: Ed and Laura Friesen, Miidred and Eidon Schroeder.

NEW DEACON COUPLES ELECTED Morris, Man.: The Lord has been so good to us! For a while our church had felt the need for more care-giving to be done within our membership as well as to people from our community who visit our church. In order to have this need met, we asked the Lord to guide and direct us in electing two more deacon couples. He graciously supplied our need! Ed and Laura Friesen and Eldon and Mildred Schroeder were elected in June and commissioned on September 30. Surround­ ed by friends and family who promised their support and prayers, they committed them­ selves publicly to fulfill their calling with the Lord’s help. Ernie Loewen, pastor of the Plea­ sant Valley church, was our guest speaker. Marvin Thiessen brought us challenging, heart-searching messages during our Deeper Life meetings in October. We thank the Lord

for the recommitments made and also for Marvin’s straightforward presentations. On September 16 we welcomed three new members to our Fellowship: Gaylene and Arietta Bartel, who transferred from the Rosenort EMC; and James Boulten by baptism. May the Lord bless you and make you a blessing. Our pastor, John Reimer, has started another class in the SEAN TEE course, an indepth study on the book of Matthew. This course is one we would recommend to anyone who desires to study God’s Word and hasn’t had the opportunity to go to Bible school. Here’s what one student says, “I find the course very mind-expanding. I do a lot of self-searching. Our discussions in class are so interesting.” Of course, we have an ex­ cellent teacher in our pastor! Betty Siemens THE MESSENGER

I clearly recall that some time after Dad brought in the morning’s milk, we all gathered around the Christmas tree to think about How many times had I been awake, listening? I just couldn’t the real meaning of Christmas. In the half-light of the winter wait for morning, but the house was still dark and quiet. Normal­ morning, the candles flickered on the tree, causing shadows here ly, waking up was difficult, but this was far from an ordinary day. and sparkles there. As we sang “Silent Night” it was not hard to It was Christmas! — the day we had anticipated so long! imagine the baby Jesus in a manger in the shadows, and perhaps We had already experienced the excitement of the school con­ candlelight, of a stable. cert and the Sunday school Christmas program, for both of which Sometimes I would take some little gifts over to our neighbors. we had practiced long and diligently, and after both of which we While the snow crunched heartily with every footstep, I thrilled had been rewarded with candy bags. For these at the beauty of miniature stars glistening on momentous occasions we had donned and duly the driven snow all around. But I had to hurry compared the new clothes which somehow our and get back in time to go to church. Dad hit­ mothers had managed to find material for and ched the horses to a sleigh with a caboose on taken time to sew. it. There was a tiny heater inside, so we were At home. Mom had baked her usual quite cozy on the two-and-one-quarter-mile trip. Christmas cookies and let me help spread the date filling on the oatmeal ones, and ice the At church, the adults were greeting each gingersnaps and dip them in coconut — such other with “Merry Christmas,” while we kids luxury! Dad had found a spruce tree small were asking each other, “What’d you get?” enough for the house, and Mom let us kids Then we settled down for the service. My help decorate it. (In later years my brother and mother or one of the other two organists I used to go for the tree.) The tree was ready played the old pump organ, and we sang “O, 4' in the usual corner, and our Christmas cards Du Frohliche” and some English carols. If we i were displayed on a string on the wall. Best sang something like “Silent Night” English and of all, just before going to bed on Christmas German were sung simultaneously. My dad or Eve, we had set our plates on the table, know­ one of the other homesteading preachers en­ Alvin and Luella Friesen bring home ing that Mom and Dad would put treats in­ thralled us with the Christmas story, and we the Christmas tree, about 1950. side and presents beside them. rejoiced together because God loved us and At long last 1 heard some movement. Dad was getting up, lighting sent His Son to save us from sin and its consequences! the coal oil lamp, stoking up the smoldering embers in the air­ After the service, either we went to my uncle’s place or they tight heater, and replenishing the heater with wood. Finally we came to ours for Christmas dinner. Turkey and sage stuffing could get up! Christmas was really here! Dad went out to do the belonged in English storybooks. We were utterly content with our chores. Mom prepared breakfast, and we kids rushed to the table chicken and bubbac, complete with wild cranberries and home­ to see what wondrous treats and gifts we had received! Of all the grown vegetables. After dinner, the women did the dishes, the candy, I especially liked the chocolates shaped like haystacks. Our men had medacb-schlope (dinner naps), and we kids tried out our presents were often books, crayons, puzzles, games, paper dolls, new games and toys or read our new books. Later on we ate can­ and other simple things, but to us they were treasures. In more dy and nuts. Mandarin oranges, and eventually faspa. At last the prosperous years, girls would get nice dolls and boys would get visit had to end, because chores had to be done even on Christmas meccano sets. It’s funny, I have no recollection of when Mom and Day. The most wonderful day of the year came to a close, but Dad opened their gifts. I never thought of it before. I wonder if the wonder, joy, and delight of it lingered on in our hearts, in they spent all they could spare on us, and there was nothing for our log cabin, in the long winter, and the memories are with me them to open . . . still. L. Marie Enns I’m not sure how we fit breakfast into Christmas morning, but Meander River, Alta.

CHRISTMAS ON THE HOMESTEAD

I X*I

Kola Captures its Third EMCup

»

Christmas came early again for the Kola hockey team, as they captured their second straight EMCup championship by beating the Braeside team 6 to 3 in the final game. This is the third time that Kola has won this an­ nual tournament since its inauguration in 1985. Participating teams came from as far west as Calgary and as far east as Fort Frances. In all, 15 EMC churches and Steinbach Bible College were involved in this year’s tourna­ ment. We are already looking forward to another successful tournament next year. Doug Friesen, Winnipeg, Man.

DECEMBER 7. 1990

The Kola team took first place at the hockey tournament, November 9 to 11. Left to right (back): Les Penner, Barry Koop, Darrel Erickson, Wally Plett, Dave Schellenberg. Front: Scott Martens, Don Neufeld, Chuck Neufeld, Rob Plett, Garth Koop, Gerald Martens.

PAGE 13

FUNDS RAISED FOR YOUTH GROUP

St. Vital, Man.: Hello from the St. Vital EMC! After a summer of slowly getting to know each other as a new church family, the majority of our congregation headed out to Star Lake for a September weekend retreat. It was a time of relaxation, of getting to know one another better, and of planning for our church life. We had beautiful weather, good accommodations, and excellent food, thanks to the inspired cooking of Shirley. Pastor Al Friesen led us in devotionals, Bert Loewen let us in our planning meetings, and Lyndon Olfert led us in singing. The retreat was fol­ lowed by several meetings, both council and congregational, to complete the planning we began at the retreat. Now our executive, council, and committees are in place and active. In October we held a special Thanksgiving morning service on the 14th. That same even­ ing we met for a turkey supper at the church, which was followed by a service of enthusiastic singing and a good deal of sharing.

Candidates for transfer of membership at the St. Vital church. Left to right: Judy and Roy Friesen, Evelyn and Alan Davison, Bev and Emery Plett, Myra Kroeker, Caroline Martens, Wendy and Brent Schlamp, Wes Kroeker. Our youth group, now well underway, is an energetic and zealous group of people. On October 27 they hosted a breakfast at the church. Borrowed bales of straw, harness, saddles and other items transformed the base­ ment into the atmosphere of a cowboy’s lifestyle. Renamed cowgirls and boys with polished manners, all suitably dressed, were in place to personally greet each guest. (They made sure our horses were tied in free stalls.) Cooks flipped flapjacks and turned sausages like pros, keeping about 60 guests satisfied and happy. Roy and Judy Friesen, leaders of the youth group, declared the breakfast a success. Proceeds are intended for use in the youth program.

On October 28 we held our second bap­ tism and transfer of membership service. Two young people were baptized and received into membership, while 11 people were transfer­ red into membership. Each person told part of their faith story before their reception. It was good to be part of that service, and to see so many people come out to show their support. Our sanctuary was filled to overflowing, and some people had to sit in the foyer! We were privileged to take part in our first communion service as a new church in early November. We look forward to continuing our growth in all sorts of ways, and we ask that you continue to pray for us as we do so. Janet Hamm and Betty Giesbrecht

Baptism at the St. Vital church. Left to right: Pastor Al Friesen, Jennifer Sinnott, Lynelle Friesen.

The Cand'y Cane and Christmas

WAITING ON THE LORD

Are there any candy canes on your Christmas tree, With the balls, and lights and tinsel hanging there? Did you know the candy cane has a message About Christmas, and of service it could share?

MacGregor, Man,: “They that wait on the Lord, shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings of eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:41). Right now our church family, and especially Richard and Karen, are waiting on the Lord, knowing that He will gives us the strength to keep walking and to keep us from fainting. We are on that slow long walk of deep grief. Justin Sawatzky, almost four years old, died accidentally on November 9 while he was “helping” his dad on the farm. We as the church family have again become aware of how short life can be and also how precious our children are to us. We are confident, though Justin’s life was short, it was not an incomplete life. Justin has completed the race and has received the crown of righteousness. Our prayers continue to go up to our loving heaven­ ly Father on behalf of Richard and Karen and their family. Our thoughts and prayers are also with Grant Thiessen and his fiancee Sue Zacharias. They were on their way to Manitoba to visit Grant’s parents, Irvin and Evelyn Thiessen, when they had an acci­ dent. The accident damaged Sue’s spinal column. She has been hospitalized in Saginaw, Michigan since October 3, and was recently moved to London, Ont., which is much closer to her home. We are thankful that no matter what the future holds, God has promis­ ed to go with us - all the way. Elaine Giesbrecht

PAGE 14

The Christmas candy cane bears a resemblance By the way it is fashioned and is styled To the crook that was used by the shepherds. Which they carried when they saw the Holy Child. The message of the cane is its colors: They are stripes of red on white, and plain to see. The wide stripe is Christ’s sacrifice on Calvary The white part speaks of faith and purity. The smaller stripes are what we do for Jesus, The time, our love for others, we must give. Our Saviour-Shepherd came to earth a servant. He gave His life that others here might live. Though the story of the cane may be a legend. The birth of the Child is brought to mind. And we think of the Christ of Golgotha, The Saviour-Shepherd, Servant of mankind.

Violet M. Wright Sturgis, Sask.

THE MESSENGER

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WHO CARES? Rosenort, Man.: “Who cares for those around us?” was the theme of our missions conference held from November 2 to 4. The emphasis this time around was much more on personal involvement in local mission work by members of our congregation and others who came from our community originally. It was felt that we had likely neglected this area of service to some extent in the past. The guest speaker for this occasion was Bill McNairn, director of the Union Gospel Mis­ sion in Winnipeg. He represents an ever­ expanding ministry to the poor and outcast of the city. Our offerings went for this ministry. The first missions “spot” in our conference went to Kent Dueck, the director of Inner City Youth Alive in Winnipeg. They work largely with native youth, teaching crafts and self-sufficiency. Also, they take them camp­ ing at the lake, where they have built their own dock, and nature helps to draw them closer to the Creator. Yes, the main thrust of the work is to win them for the Lord. God grant it! Frank Braun of Kamsack shared very briefly on 34 years of service to the native people of Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Bill McNairn’s first message was entitled “Sins of the Saints” and dealt with Lot’s residency in Sodom, where pride, prosperi­ ty, pleasure, possessiveness and impurity were rampant. Though Lot was “righteous,” he was not unaffected by these sins and, as a result, his testimony was very weak towards

Mr. and Mrs. Peter J.K. Loewen celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary in Mor­ ris, Man., on November 17.

his own family. How does the carnality of our world affect us? At Saturday’s men’s breakfast. Bill expos­ ed the dangers of social drinking, giving some real-life examples from work at Union Gospel Mission, but also applying Romans 15:1-6 to this issue. He said, “We have become so ‘liberated’ that we accept almost anything,” I Corinthians 10:23,24 is a good rule to follow in our lives. Sunday missionary spots were filled by Levi Brandt and Adina Kornelsen. Levi is involv­ ed in a fruitful hospital visitation ministry and Adina in a compassionate counselling role at the Crisis Pregnancy Center. Would you believe that there are 50 million abortions yearly worldwide? “The Disobedient Missionary” was McNairn’s topic for both of his Sunday messages, and dealt with the life of Jonah. He was like us, or are we like him? God says, “Go ye,” and we shrink from His command. What we need is a fresh touch of compassion.

An ordination service was heid on November 4 for Dave Siemens at the La Crete Christian Feiiowship.

ASSISTANT PASTOR ORDAINED

La Crete, Alta.: We enjoyed a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner at the church on October 7. The dinner was followed by a short pro­ gram and an opportunity to share about the things we were thankful for. The biannual Women’s Retreat was hosted by the La Crete Christian Fellowship on Oc­ tober 20. This is a special opportunity for DECEMBER 7, 1990

and that we would see lost people as lost indiuiduals, whether they are native, Asian, drunk, sick, blind, drug addicts, AIDS victims, prostitutes or whatever. Jesus said, “I am the Way . . . ; no man comes to the Father, but by Me.” Let’s show them the Way! Mr. and Mrs. Peter J.K. Loewen celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary on November 17 at the Red River Valley Lodge in Morris, where Mr. Loewen is a patient, while Mrs. Loewen is a resident at the Rosenort Eventide Home. There were numerous guests who took in the singing and the talk by C.F. Dueck, a brother of Mrs. Loewen. Tasty sandwiches, cookies and squares were served. Although Mr. Loewen’s health has improved from a year ago, he still tires easily and is quite emotional at times. But he was obviously very much aware of the pro­ ceedings and still very fond of his lifetime part­ ner who visits him three or four times a week. Leui Dueck

Sharon and Dave Siemens and their children, Jocelyn and Christopher

women to spend time together in worship, prayer, encouragement and sharing. Many women expressed the blessing they received from the main speaker, Mrs. Nafziger’s, talk, as well as the short talks shared by Ruth Unger and Maryann Harder. November 4 was another very special day for our church. It was the afternoon in which we held an ordination service for our Assis­ tant Pastor Dave Siemens. Pastor Richard Klassen of High Level brought a message and

represented the Conference General Board in the ceremonies. Special music was shared by Harley Middel and Martin Friesen. This was a day in the history of our church where we stood together to acknowledge our sup­ port for each other in obedience to Christ. Our prayer is that God will bless you, Dave and Sharon, as you continue to obey God’s will in the ministry He has called you to. F. Boehlig PAGE 15

Mary, the Lord’s Chosen Servant In reading the Christmas story again, I became aware for the first time of Mary, who becomes somewhat lost as shepherds and angels present themselves. There is little writ­ ten about Mary’s character, what her feelings were as these events came to life. Mary was thrust into a most delicate situation as she faced Joseph with the news the angel had made known to her. Luke 1:29 speaks of Mary’s feelings with these words, “But she was greatly troubled at this statement, and kept ponder­ ing what kind of a situation this might be. I can only im­ agine the emotional turbulence Mary experienced as she faced the angel, then Joseph, and the others. Mary knew she was going to have a son, a Son of the Most High God. The following months would be full of ex­ pectations of the coming birth. A King for the throne of David! As I read Luke 2 I tried to imagine riding through a desert on a donkey. It seemed somewhat lacking in comfort for one near to giving birth. They arrived at their destination only to find that there were no accommodations at the inn. This is becoming an experience to bring the most deter­ mined gal to tears. Mary is about to give birth to the King, but where? In the desperation of the hour, a room is of­ fered: “You may use the stable.” Following along with the events of chapter two, I read, “But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” Suddenly these words became magnified on the page. Here, in these simple words, Mary’s reactions to the most celebrated birth in the history of the world, are ex­ pressed: “Mary pondered these things.” As a mother, my heart went out to the plight of Mary’s situation, for she was a very special mother. In the few words that are written about Mary, I have learned many things about her. Mary found favour with God, therefore her heart must have been righteous. Mary was humble, considering herself a bondslave of the Lord. Mary’s character portrays faithfulness and obedience in response to the angel as she replies, “Be it done to me ac­ cording to your word.” I believe Mary was very much loved by her family and she knew they would uphold her in her need.

John and Nellie Knelsen celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in Burns Lake, B.C., on November 10 and 11.

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Mary has emerged in a special way as an example of God’s chosen people, and inspired the words of the follow­ ing poem:

Mary Long, long ago in a faraway place A child was born to save the human race. A birth that was honoured, by shepherd and King, With great rejoicing, even the angels would sing. His birth was exclaimed by the very hour Glorious, in the brilliance of God’s own power. The beautiful star that would lead the way That man and angel would not stray. Mary and Joseph, by a manger, with hearts full of love Praising their Father in heaven above. Mary’s heart must have stirred within For the son, God’s Son, the King. A Saviour for her people, promised from ages past Announced by an angel, He had come at last. With angels and men, Mary would share A gift so wonderful, precious and rare. Her Son, a King born to set people free Wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying upon her knee. Her thoughts were filled as she laid Him to rest At how her people He would surely bless. Linda Beadle Minitonas, Man.

50TH ANNIVERSARY Burns Lake, B.C.: The weekend of November 10 and 11 was the climax of about a yecir’s planning and preparation by the fami­ ly of John and Nellie Knelsen in a celebra­ tion of their 50th wedding anniversary. Fami­ ly, relatives and friends began coming in dur­ ing the week, but the abundance of food the family had prepared did not run out as peo­ ple gathered in the Brown Room at Heritage Manor for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Truly it was a blessed time the Lord gave to com­ memorate His faithfulness throughout the 50 years of His loving, caring provision of health, strength and just being that all-sufficient One in every joy, trial and sorrow, as well as the victories after defeat. The family also provid-

ed a Gideon Tree for use of the Gideon Honour Bible Plan. This, through the generosity of the guests, will be placing over 400 copies of God’s Word in needy countries overseas (this fund is still growing). On the romantic side, they had also set up a Honey­ moon Trip Tree for the parents to take a honeymoon trip that certainly had not been the order of the day back in 1940 when they were married. The program, skit, song and meditation and poems were a delight and en­ couragement as well as a challenge for the future. Praise the Lord for His goodness and, most of all, for the marvelous salvation He has wrought for us in His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, to whom be glory both now and forever. THE MESSENGER

*

GOD NEEDS ORDINARY PEOPLE

BEGINNINGS OF A NEW CHURCH

Riverton, Man.: Today I wish to not only relate events, but to encourage and inspire you as we have been inspired during our November missions conference. We were fortunate to have with us Maria Koop. Don McNaughton, Evelyn Plett, Henry Klassen, Mary Loewen, John Peters and Dave Wiebe. I’d like to present a comparison between the missionary and the ‘average’ Christian in today’s society. I’ll be drawing on comments made by the speakers during our services. God needs ordinary people to go and help people meet God, whether here at home or abroad. We need to be in a position where we can meet and influence others (plant a seed), which usually begins within our circle of acquaintances. We are not always willing workers, at home or abroad. But Matthew 28 tells us to “go and make disciples of all nations.” Once we have said yes, we often ex­ perience trials, struggles and grief, and whether you are a field missionary or a mother, or carpenter or teacher . . . things don’t go right a lot of the time. Perseverance and prayer are important ingredients needed to overcome. And when we question, as in Psalm “Will the Lord reject forever? Will He never show his favour again? Has his unfailing love vanished forever? Has His promise failed for all time? Has God forgot­ ten to be merciful? Has He in anger withheld his compassion? then we need to see verse 11, “1 will remember the deeds of the Lord; Yes, 1 will remember your miracles of long ago.” Only then are we, like the missionary, able to carry out that task of reaping the harvest field. 1 would like to take this opportunity to send greetings to John and Diane Goertzen, Christopher, Daniel and Jonathon. Enjoy your new home in Hepburn, Sask. Best wishes to Irene Reimer, Cory, Vanessa and Andrea, who have made their home in Gimli. The junior Sunday school department has been busy these last few weeks. Enthusiasm is increasing as preparations for the Christmas concert are underway. We are awaiting the eve of December 16 when the fruit of their labour will be unveiled. Why not come and celebrate Christ’s birth with us? Merry Christmas from our congretaion to yours!

Grande Prairie, Alta.: We have been meeting as an EMC group for Bible studies on Sunday nights for the last six months. We’ve been very encouraged by the number of people showing up. Each one of us is waiting with anticipation for Peter and Trudy Dueck to move up here. They’ve been ap­ pointed as the pastoral couple for the Grande Prairie church-planting project. The Lord has already richly blessed us and we look forward to the Duecks joining us to get this new church organized in January. Betty Brandt

Carol Kornelsen

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Christmas is beautiful only when Christ is given the preeminence in all things. DECEMBER 7, 1990

JUSTIN SAWATZKY 1986-1990 Justin Paul Sawatzky, son of Karen and Richard, was born on December 13, 1986, at Portage la Prairie, Man. His big grin, bub­ bly giggle, and sparkling eyes were a delight to all he met. He was a ray of sunshine at 7:00 a.m. every morning with a “Boo! Scared you!” with a giggle and a twinkle in his eye. He en­ joyed Sunday school and especially singing. Justin’s favourite choruses were “Jesus Loves Me,” “Jesus Loves the Little Children of the World,” and “Oh, How 1 Love Jesus.” He cared for everyone and everything. In Sunday school he insisted the horse sticker go on the green page so it could have lots of green grass to eat. He also enjoyed Nursery School, with lots of stories to tell us of what he had done, and what he had made. He cared very much for his family. He was usual­ ly all full of kisses and hugs; sometimes he was all empty! Justin especially cared for his baby sister Brittany and was also an excellent little babysitter. We know he loved his older sister Tamara, although it was difficult to tell occa­ sionally. But he really missed her when she was in school and she really misses him too. He mostly loved his mom, who was a source of refuge, a source of food, and had hugs and kisses that could heal any hurt. We are thankful for our parents whom Justin loved dearly. He especially liked being the co-pilot in Grandpa’s combine. We are thankful for the uncles, aunts, cousins and friends that gave Justin much joy in his short life. He loved his favourite babysitters, Gloria and Sherry, and looked forward to seeing them. 1 asked him what he was going to be when he grew up. Well, he was a pretty big boy already, standing beside me and measuring himself, and he could feel his “pickies” start­

ing to grow on his soft cheeks. He looked up to me with his big blue eyes, “I’m going to be a policeman and give you a ticket! Naw, I real­ ly wouldn’t do that. I’m going to be a farmer.” Justin and 1 spent many hours together working on the farm, memories 1 will always cherish. He had it all figured out - the way machines work - and would explain it to me in great detail. When something broke down, he had a solution, “If 1 were you, 1 would hold it together and tape it.” He was saving his pen­ nies to buy a big new semi, tractor, combine and other things. He would come to the granaries, find a pail, pour grain on the ground and combine it for hours with his toy combines and then hook a wagon on his trac­ tor and haul it away. We would have devotions before bedtime. Sometimes we were too busy or too tired to spend time having devotions. Listening to him pray was a blessing: “Thank you for Mommy and Daddy, Tamara and Brittany. Thank you for Grandma and Grandpa and Gloria. Help me to be a good boy tomorrow. 1 love you, Jesus. Give me wisdom from above. Amen.” Last week he asked if Jesus could zoom down and take him to heaven. I asked him if he should ask Jesus into his heart. He replied, “Daddy, 1 already did that.” Doing what he loved the best, farming with his dad, he died accidentally on Friday, November 9, 1990, at the Health Sciences Center in Winnipeg. Justin reached the age of three years and eleven months. He had spent his short life with his parents and two sisters on their farm in the Beaver Creek District. Justin was dearly loved and will be deeply missed by his parents, Richard and Karen, and his two sisters, Tamara and Brittany. Also left to mourn his passing are his grandparents, Dave and Lillian Sawatzky of Beaver, John and Helen Klassen of Austin, great­ grandfathers, C.A. Sawatzky and Ben Funk, both of MacGregor, great-grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. George Dyck of MacGregor, and several aunts, uncles and cousins. We believe Jesus wanted him now and that is why the accident happened. We know he is safe in the arms of Jesus, running, playing and singing, telling us not to worry because he is waiting for us. This is our only hope. Justin, we wish we would have played with you more, read you more stories and played more ball. There will always be a place in our hearts for you. We will miss you. Children are a gift from God and we thank Him that He gave us Justin for almost four years. God’s plan is perfect and Justin died for a reason which we can’t understand. We must trust God to work it out. Justin, we loue you. From your mom, dad and sisters The funeral service for Justin Sawatzky was held at the MacGregor EMC on November 13. Rev. Jerry Plett and Rev. Menno Kroeker officiated. There was a Children’s Memorial Service held prior to the funeral.

PAGE 17

Births

THE CHRISTMAS STORY (From A to Z)

COGHILL — to Rudy and Sheila Coghill of Vanderhoof, B.C., a daughter, Ashley Briana, on September 25, 1990. BRANDT — to Mervin and Betty Brandt of Grande Prairie, Alta., a son, Owen Jon Jerome, on September 24, 1990.

A is for ANGELS, shining and bright. Telling of Jesus that first Christmas night. (Luke 2:13) B is for BETHLEHEM, crowded and old. Birthplace of Jesus, by prophets foretold. (Micah 5:2) C is for CATTLE - their manger His bed There in a stable where he laid His head. (Luke 2:7) D is for DA VID and his ancient throne. Promised forever to Jesus alone. (Luke 1:32) E is for EAST, where men saw the star. And rode away quickly to follow it far. (Mall. 2:1, 2) F is for FRANKINCENSE, with myrrh and fine gold. Brought by the Wise Men, as Matthew has told. (Matt. 2:11) G is for GOD, who from heaven above Sent down Io mankind the Son of His love. (John 3:16) H is for HEROD, whose murderous schemes Were told to the wise men and Joseph in dreams. (Matt. 2:12, 13) I is for INFANT, taken by night Down into Egypt, from the wicked king's sight. (Matt. 2:13) J is for JOSEPH, noble and just. Obeying God’s orders with absolute trust. (Matt. 1:24) K is for KING. A true King was He, A Coming Io rule in great majesty. (Zech. 9:9) L is for LOVE Jesus brought down to earth That night in a stable in lowly birth. (I John 4:9) M is for MARY, His mother, so brave Counting God faithful and mighty Io save. (Luke 1:47) N is for NIGHT, when the Savior was bom For nations of earth and people forlorn. (Luke 2:8) O is for OMEGA, meaning "the last;” He’s eternal: present, future, and past. (Rev. 22:13) P is for PROPHETS, who foretold Jesus’ story In visions of Bethlehem, Calvary, and glory. (Num. 24:17) Q is for QUICKL Y, as shepherds who heard Hastened to act on that heavenly word. (Luke 2:16) R is for REJOICE. The sorrow of sin Is banished forever when Jesus comes in. (Luke 1:14) S is for SA VIOR. To be this He came; The angel of God assigned Him His name. (Matt. 1:21) T is for TIDINGS related Io all. Telling of Him who was born in a stall. (Luke 2:10) U is for US, to whom Jesus was given To show us the way and lake us to heaven. (Luke 2:11) V is for VIRGIN, foretold by the sage, God’s revelation on prophecy’s page. (Isaiah 7:14) W is for WONDERFUL. That’s the Lord’s name; With wonderful words and works He came. (Isaiah 9:6) X is for CHRIST, when in Greek H’s read. He’s our Savior and Lord, the angel said. (Luke 2:11) Y is for "YES" to all of God’s ways. Like Mary, whose "yes" filled her spirit with praise. (Luke 1:38) Z is for ZEAL that burned in God’s Son, From His childhood years ’till His life’s work was done. (John 2:17)

LOEWEN — to Lloyd and Arlene Loewen of Fisher Branch, Man., a daughter Jalysia Jewel, on January 15, 1990. PLETT — to Ron and Sylvia Plett of Arborg, Man., a son, Gregory Alan, on March 26, 1990.

LOEWEN — to Milton and Loma Loewen of Fisher Branch, Man., a daughter, Krystalee Joelle, on April 3, 1990. PLETT — to Alvin and Sue Plett of Arborg, Man., a daughter, Carlabeth Lanae, on April 10, 1990. STAUFFER — to Lowell and Bev Stauffer of Ar­ borg, Man., a son, Jared Kendall, on May 22, 1990. PLETT — to Delmer and Janice Plett of Arborg, Man., a daughter, Donnalee Tawana, on August 13, 1990. FRIESEN — to Ted and Annie Friesen of Arborg, Man., a daughter, Kara Ann Michelle, on October 3, 1990. NEUFELD — to Erwin and Vicki Neufeld of Stein­ bach, Man., a daughter, Jessica Robyn, on November 13, 1990. REIMER — to Dan and Helen Reimer of Mitchell, Man., a son, Jeremy Scott, on November 20, 1990. MARTENS — to Gordon and Lynn Martens of Churchill, Man., a daughter, Shayleen Nicole, on October 19, 1990. PENNER — to Gordon and Susan Penner of La Crete, Alta., a son, Caleb Gordon, on November 10, 1990. SCHMIDT — to Isaac and Trudy Schmdit of La Crete, Alta., a daughter, Chelsea Leanne, on November 4, 1990.

KRAHN — to Walter and Vicky Krahn of La Crete, Alta., a son, Shane Ryan, on October 7, 1990.

Weddings REIMER - MILLER: Jeff, son of Leo and Laura Reimer of Kola, Man., was married on July 7, 1990, to Kathy, daughter of Robert and Isohel Miller of High River, Alta. The wedding took place at the High River Baptist Church, with Ed Dyck of High River officiating. The couple is making their home in High River. PETERS - ELIAS: Cameron, son of Henry D. and Gertrude Peters of La Crete, Alta., and Gwen, daughter of Jake and Eva Elias of La Crete, were married on November 3, 1990. The wedding took place at the La Crete Christian Fellowship, with Milton Fast of La Crete officiating. The couple is making their home in High Level, Alta. PENNER - WOLFE: Martin, son of John and Katherine Penner of La Crete, and Judy Wolfe, daughter of Frank and Margaret Froese of La Crete, were married at the La Crete Christian Fellowship on September 16, 1990. Milton Fast of La Crete officiated. The couple is making their home in High Level, Alta.

PAGE 18

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THE MESSENGER

BY the WAY

Bj Dave Schellenberg

This book is about the total aspect of wor­ ship, from the prayers at the beginning of a service to the benediction at the end; the sing­ ing of hymns, choruses and the reading of scripture, as well as sharing testimonies, the preaching and communion. This book also in­ cludes information on the ‘love feasts’ and the ‘holy kiss.’ The author encourages both tradition and change in worship services. She writes, “Our worship patterns are best not modeled on the coal mine tunnels. Going to church, on the other hand, should not be like entering a fairground” (p.48). Some good ideas are presented, as well as examples given as to how to accomplish the suggestions. The writer suggests that the music leaders of a church have an “index of all music known to the church by categories” to fit all occasions of worship. This would in­ clude the hymns known in the hymnbook, as well as choruses or songs known by memory. She also gives examples of personalizing and updating Scripture for the invocation. Call to Worship, as well as for praying and confes­ sion. Overall, she advocates more use of the Bible than just reading a passage before the messge. “Let Bible words be the substance of our prayers.” The writer also gives guidance to writing benedictions on the basis of Scripture, to be used as we have done in our churches, where the speaker or pastor says the benediction. But she suggests that we also change the wording so it becomes a responsive benedic­ tion where the leader reads a line or two and the congregation responds as well. This book is not written for the song leaders or music committee alone but for all who arc involved in the morning worship service. I would recommend this book especially to the leaders, planners of the worship service and pastors who need fresh ways of using Scrip­ ture for prayers and benedictions.

DECEMBER 7, 1990

I WAS SURE I was on to something big when I saw the results of our recent church elections. This must be a first in the Con­ ference. We had elected two women as delegates to our EMC Conference Council. Surely this had never happened before! But when I excitedly shared this with Conference Pastor Ed Friesen he quickly deflated my balloon. No, we weren’t the first church to elect women delegates. And he named two other churches which had done this previously. In the realm of Sunday school and mis­ sions we have long abandoned the literal in­ terpretation of Paul when he said, “Let your women keep silence in the churches ...” In fact, when 1 study history I find that in the EMC it came to an end when in the Steinbach church (where the modern EMC Sunday school movement began on January 17, 1926) one of the six teachers was a woman, Anna Dueck. Bless her heart! The fact that she was the daughter of an EMC minister, I think makes it all the more significant. Today, of course, 1 don’t think there is a question in any of our churches about hav­ ing female Sunday school teachers. I also don’t think our Board of Missions ever ex­ cludes a missionary candidate on the grounds that she is a woman. I believe we even have women church planters on the field. If in the Sunday school and in missions we employ women, are we not fostering a double standard in not allowing them more say in the affairs of the Conference? To me it would seem that way.

THE OTHER DAY at the post office 1 greeted my friend, and his unexpected re­ joinder was, “I like it when somebody notices me!” Isn’t this a fact of life? We like to be noticed. It gives us a good feeling, a sense of self-worth. Then, sometimes, you are noticed and you haven’t a clue who the other person is. This happened to me the other day when I sat beside a person at lunch after a funeral. 1 wanted to keep my reputation intact by knowing who the person was. But, try as I might, I had to admit defeat. John was aware of the blessing and uplift­ ing of a personal greeting when he wrote in 3 John 14, “Greet the friends by name.” You may say, “I can remember faces, but I can’t remember names.” I think we could remember a lot more names if we made a

little effort. One way of doing this is to associate names with some characteristic or a physical feature of the person. How many times, to my embanassment, have 1 had to ask for a second time the name of the per­ son 1 have been introduced to! For exam­ ple, you have been introduced to a person whose name is Paul. Now if it happens that he is also tall, you have an immediate association. Right? And with a little thought this can be applied to other situations. Try it sometime.

HAVE YOU EVER tugged away at every corner on those plastic jam containers which the restaurants serve at breakfast? Maybe you have even become frustrated. Well, from now on you can open them with ease. The other day I discovered the secret. As you contemplate this sealed wonder you will see that of the four corners three are round­ ed and one is square! It’s that simple. The opening tab is on the square corner! Lest I would be the only person ignorant of this 1 tested it on my friend the other day as we were sitting at coffee. No, he hadn’t known that either. I realize that this is nothing pro­ found but someday it might save you some frustration.

BY NOW YOU KNOW my love of trees and the outdoors and so, a bit saddened, I took down another tree today, an ever­ green at that. There were only two left standing on my lot line. The others had been removed earlier. One of the reasons for their removal was that they were scraggly. I think for this reason I had gotten them free when I planted them maybe some 20 years ago. But I couldn’t get myself to remove them all and I left two standing. However, this year, when I realized that the two would also have to bite the dust (or snow), I felled one of them. Another reason was that at the top there was a bunch of large cones, bigger than ordinary. I figured they would make lovely Christmas decorations. And they were too high to comfortably reach with the ladder. So down it came. What I would like to do would be to plant a young tree here. But likely I would have to do it secretly because my wife thinks we already have too many trees. A blessed Christmas and fulfilling New Year to all! PAGE 19

s

From the Editor ii

CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Dear Girls and Boys: Are you getting excited about Christmas? I am. I’m look­ ing forward to having our children come home again. Some of them live far away, and we haven’t seen them for a long time. It will be good to be together again. What are you looking forward to? a vacation from school? getting together with your cousins or friends? going to your grandparents? There are many things that remind us that Christmas is not far away: Hearing the Christmas music, seeing the pretty decorations, smelling Mother’s special bak­ ing, practicing for Christmas programs in school and church, are just a few reminders. One more thing about Christmas that gets us excited is the thought of getting presents. There is a special thrill in getting new things. Here’s a story about Sara and her experience with presents. Sara was so happy she could hardly keep still. It was her ninth birthday and she was having a party. It was exciting to welcome her guests. Everyone came in with a present; some brought three or four. Sara would have liked to open the presents right away, but her mother had persuaded her to wait until after lunch. First they had a lot of fun playing games. Everyone laughed when Ann pinned the tail on the donkey’s head. Feme got the prize in the ring-toss contest. After a final lively game the girls all gathered around the dining room table for refreshments. They enjoyed the dainty sandwiches, chips and colorful, jiggly jello shapes. Then the lights were turned off as Sara’s mother brought in the birth­ day cake, glowing brightly with nine candles. Even though Sara was breathless with excitement, she managed to blow them out. The girls cheered loudly. By the time the cake was cut and eaten everyone felt stuffed. They returned to the family room for the presents. This was the moment Sara had been waiting for. But something was wrong. There was a present for Brenda, and two for Dawn. In fact, there were presents for everybody, but none for Sara. Not even one! She was shocked. It was HER birth­ day. Why did her friends give each other presents, but none to her? She started to cry and ran out of the room. The next thing she knew, her mother was standing by her bed, asking her why she was so restless. When Sara realized it was only a bad dream, she hugged her mother, turned over and soon was sound asleep again. In a few days we will be celebrating Christmas, which is really Jesus’ birthday. There will likely be good food, oranges, nuts and candy to enjoy. And there will be presents. Presents for whom? Let me guess. It is Jesus’ birthday, so all the presents will be for Him, right? The birthday person always gets the presents. Unfortunately, that is usually not so at Christmas.

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But there was a time when Jesus did get some presents. I love that beautiful story in the Bible. Somehow God had given some wise men in a faraway country a message that a very important person had been born. They called Him the King of the Jews. They had such a strong desire to see this baby and to wor­ ship him, that they prepared to go and find him. 1 suppose they packed their clothes, food and some blankets for the long trip. (I don’t think they had sleeping bags in those days.) Prob­ ably they loaded their supplies on camels and began to travel through the desert country. How did they know where to go? God prepared a special star that seemed to guide them. 1 don’t know whether they travelled only at night and rested during the day, or whether the star was visible in the daytime too. It seems they got a bit off track in their search. They went to Jerusalem, where the king lived. They probably thought that’s where the new prince would be. But he wasn’t there. So they got new instructions to try to find him in Bethlehem, a little town not far away. And sure enough, when they started out again, there was the star. Joyfully they watched it carefully and it led them right to the place where Jesus and his family were. They bowed down and worshipped Jesus. Then they opened their gifts — gold, incense and myrrh. These were very expensive presents. We might think they were not very suitable for a baby. But I think they were just what Joseph and Mary needed when they quickly had to move to another country to protect Jesus from jealous King Herod. God had provided in a wonderful way that this precious Baby would be well taken care of, and grow up to be our Saviour. Jesus is God’s Christmas gift to us. The Bible says, “For God so loved the world (all of us) that he gaue his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). God has given us a very precious present because he loves us so much. Maybe that is why we give and receive presents at Christmas. We want to show people how much we love them. Have you truly received God’s gift to you? Just as you take a gift from a friend, you can take Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour. He loves you and wants you to love him too. Ask him to forgive your sin and make you one of his children. And then be sure to say thank you. Can we give presents to Jesus? I think so. One young boy couldn’t think what to give, so he said, “I’ll give myself to Jesus.” That is really the best gift we can give him. We can also give him other gifts. When we are kind, forgiving and helpful to others, we are really giving presents to Jesus. 1 hope you will have a happy Christmas. May God bless you. Your friend, Menno Hamm the messenger

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