The Messenger
EVANGELICAL EVANGELICAL MENNONITE MENNONITE CONFERENCE CONFERENCE
VOL. 27/91 VOL. 29 29 NO. NO. 18 18 V^.SEPT. 27/91
Giving Thanks: a Miracle Sometimes, Lord, we need to give thanks with gratitude for little: the skimpy meal the blighted crop the reversal of our greatest expectations.
We need to be thankful for what we have, facing the lack the loss the frustration as it really is, trusting in You. For only then can You take the remnants of our hopes and change them to fulfill our deepest needs. —Lucille Gripp Maharry Creston, Iowa
“Letusbe Thanitful”
Weekend Prayer Oh Lord, what a week this has been! I got a new student But I didn't get ten! We were hit by a bus But we didn't get hurt! The car wouldn't start But the telephone worked! (I was chauffered to Sand Hills before the last bell.) The cistern ran dry But there still is the well! My daughter awoke spattered over with spots But it isn't meningitis (only chicken pox)! I found my son's watch in the washing machine But it still ticks on. Bright, shiny, and clean! The washer flooded right over the top But it chugs and it spins. And I do have a mop! So Lord, I thank You for giving to me A blessing with every calamity. But if it so please You, One thing more I seek: That the next may be just A plain, ordinary week. Z. Marie Enns Meander River, Alta.
A twentieth-century miracle in China: ""The more you burn Bibles, the more you end up with” by Dorothy Cutrell lease don’t use your flash in this room. Camera flash may affect the normal sensors of the press. Thank you for your cooperation.” This warning sign on the side of a printing press in Nan jing, China, is a clue to the sophistication of the high-speed machine that visitors from all over the world may be tempted to photograph. A roll of paper 37 inches in diameter enters one end of the giant press, and at the other end the words of the Bible’s prophets, kings, and apostles, as well as the teach ings of Jesus, emerge in characters that can be read and un derstood by a half billion or more Chinese people. According to a count just completed, this is about half of the popu lation. Three years ago United Bible Societies, represented by David Thorne of Australia, purchased the finest printing and binding equipment available, set it up in a building on the outskirts of Nanjing, and Amity Press was born. Amity Press is a child of Amity Foundation, an organization of Chinese Christians created five years ago to meet a variety of needs. In addition to the printing operation. Amity Foundation has work among orphans and the handicapped, provides English teachers in various schools, and most recently has become in volved with Habitat for Humanity to improve housing. Nanjing is a city of four million on the Yangtze River, a four-hour train ride inland from Shanghai. In 1988 Chinaborn Peter Macinnis came to Nanjing from the United States with his wife, Elyn, and two daughters to manage the infant Press. With no printing background of his own, a staff of un skilled workers, and a confounding Chinese bureaucracy to
'"At last we got new Bibles. We embraced them with tears in our eyes, and for a long time we felt great excitement in our hearts. ”
deal with, Peter nursed the project along so that by 1990 the Press had produced and distributed two and a half million Bibles. The goal of the Press is to produce another million and a half Bibles in 1991. Getting the giant enterprise to work has been no small feat. The manager not only needs to understand the language but also Chinese thought patterns and ways of working. He now has employees who have confidence in what they are doing and are able to produce well-made Bibles, as well as hymnals and other products. The support and en couragement Peter Macinnis received from his family is an important factor in making the operation work. Bible production in China is a many-faceted miracle. Only a few years ago the idea of printing Bibles in China would have been unthinkable. The existence of the Press still surprises many who hear about it. But in Nanjing, Bible production is just another part of the changing cultural and economic scene.
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The text used in Amity Press Bibles is the 1919 Union Mandarin version, developed over a long period of time. It re mains the standard Bible for Chinese Protestants. The text is printed in simplified Chinese characters which run horizontally on the page.
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nother aspect of the China Bible miracle is the efficient distribution system. Bibles move from the Press to four main distribution points: Nanjing, Shanghai, Jiangsu, and Hang Zhou. From these points they find their way to seminaries, congregations, and individuals in an orderly, reliable way. One example is St. Paul’s Church in Nanjing, where hundreds of Chinese Christians worship every Sunday morning. There is al ways a Bible stand in the courtyard where people may pur chase a full-size Bible, a pocket Bible (very popular), or a kivar-bound hymnal, all produced at Amity Press. Between Nanjing and Shanghai is Hang Zhou Seminary, which trains Chinese pastors for the Hang Zhou area. The young people who study there receive intensive training: This includes learning to play the organ, as well as instruction in preaching and biblical interpretation. Their return rate to their own churches is an enviable 100 percent. Hang Zhou Seminary orders 1,000 Bibles a month. These are sold for a price Chinese Christians can afford, a fact made possible by United Bible Societies’ contribution of paper on which to print the Bibles and by careful management of the Press. A key user of Bibles is another seminary in Nanjing which also has an excellent record of returning students to their home communities where they serve as pastors. The hunger of these training centers for Bibles seems insatiable. Their churches are vigorous and eager to learn. The story of Bibles in China becomes even more dramatic with individual Christians and congregations. Elyn Macinnis has recorded this story which she heard when she visited a vil lage in Yunnan Province. Pastor Wang told her: “The Cultur al Revolution was a test which let me receive Jesus. The Revolution was a disaster, but the number of Christians in the Miao minority grew very quickly. You could say our church grew up during this disaster. At that time, our fellowship was secret. In the night two or three people would get together at someone’s home to study the Bible and pray. We felt that our confidence was strong and we had no selfishness. “At that time we wanted Bibles but we couldn’t get them. When we had fellowship, we recited familiar verses from the Bible and sang familiar hymns.” (Pastor Wang’s Bible was hidden in his house in a hole in the wall covered over with mud. He didn’t dare to take it out until the policy of Freedom of Religion was carried out in 1982.) “At last we got new Bibles. We embraced them with tears in our eyes, and for a long time we felt a great excitement in our hearts. At last we were allowed freedom of religious be lief. Now we have enough Bibles. There are at least one or two Bibles in each family. Our Christians have grown to more than 200. The whole village here is Christian except one fami ly. Thanks be to God, the Holy Spirit did this, and many
THE MESSENGER
non-believers have become Christians.” Another pastor tells how Bibles were burned during the Cultural Revolution, but now they have more Bibles than ever. He says, “The more you burn Bibles, the more you end up with.” The American Bible Society Record reports that Bibles are in demand among non-Christians as well. Mr. Lu, the leader of a “Meeting Point Church” (a church that often does not have a full-time pastor), says, “We distribute 50 Bibles each month to non-Christians. Non-Christian teachers, doctors, and nurses want Bibles. I ask them why they want Bibles even though they do not attend church and are not Christians. They say . . . the Bible teaches many things by which they can govern their lives.” Chinese Christians are known for acts of mercy and their interest in helping people. The church empha sizes discipleship and integrity. Since China has been opened to the rest of the world, this vast and ancient civilization has attracted many groups and individuals from all parts of the globe to teach, do business,
''Bible production in China is a many-faceted miracle. Only a few years ago the idea of printing Bibles in China would have been unthinkable. ’’ and see the sights. Working in China requires careful planning and supervision. In response to the need, Mennonites created China Educational Exchange, an inter-Mennonite agency which has sent more than 100 North American teachers to China and brought more than 40 Chinese educators to North American colleges. In addition to providing teachers to the Amity Foundation and contributing financially to the Amity Printing Company, China Educational Exchange has spon sored two persons to the Press, Ben Cutrell and Stanley Yod er. Ben and Stanley, who worked together at Mennonite Publishing House for more than 30 years, go to the Press each day with Peter Macinnis, observing the work and trying to discover ways of increasing productivity. They are also working with Peter and his staff to establish an accurate cost accounting system. The story of the Bible in China is long and fascinating. Printing and selling Bibles has alternately flourished and gone underground in this country. Following some difficult years, Chinese Christians in partnership with United Bible Societies are now themselves producing Bibles to meet the needs of the growing Chinese Christian church — a true twentieth-century miracle. Dorothy Cutrell and her husband. Ben, are both retired from their work at Mennonite Publishing House, where Ben was publisher for 26 years. They lived in China and worked at the Amity Press for five months in 1990-91. They returned to their home in DeLand, FL, in spring. (This article first appeared in the Gospel Herald April 16, 1991.)
Contemplating Thanksgiving As I prepared for Thanksgiving, and contemplated the time of sharing with family and friends, I was overcome with all that God has provided. The realization of God’s grace in my life was evident. Has God given you the desires of your heart? I believe He has done that for me. I find inspiration and exultation above measure, in the life so expertly moulded, from one that was once lifeless. His creation of man did not stop with birth, but is elevated in both physical and spiritual realms to meet our innermost needs. How delightful! In awe of God’s greatness, words from a favourite hymn, How Great Thou Art, flow through my thoughts. What can surpass the knowledge of God’s healing and direction in life? I thank God for providing through His own dear Son, the way, the truth, and the life. With thanksgiving, I found myself writing the following words that express that which I am thankful for:
MN THANKSGIVING I listened to the voice of one, deep in despair, Longing for a friend, one that would care. I thanked God for His command that we care for our brother. With love in our hearts, one for another.
I listened to the voice of one, standing near, Speaking of a dear one, that is no longer here. I thanked God for family, close by my side. Walking close together, our footsteps keeping stride.
I listened to the voice of one, that spoke softly to me Of the day when once again his family he will see. I thanked God for the vision that is mine for the day, Directing my steps, come what may. I listened to the voice of one, filled with bitter tears, Edged with remorse, hardened with fear. I thanked God for life, safe in His hands. Following His way, kept in His perfect plan. I listened to the voice of one, marked with a sigh. Weary, longing for the strength just to get by. I thanked God for rest, that He gives to His own, Until we come at last, before His golden throne. I listened to the voice of one, crying in the wind. Searching for the heart, forever lost to sin. I thanked God for salvation, the gift that He gave, For life that lives, long past the grave. I listened to the voice of one, in passing by. Asking of a brother. Why, oh why? I thanked God for caring, in the shadows of life. For walking close beside me, in love or in strife.
is mentioned one hundred and forty times in the Bible.
SEPTEMBER 27, 1991
I listened to the voice of one, calling within, I am here, that all may come in. I thanked God for the love He has for everyone. Paid as a ransom, through the life of His Son.
Linda Beadle, Red Deer, Alta. PAGE 3
Al Friesen Named Principal of WMES The Winnipeg Mennonite Elemen tary School is pleased to introduce Mr. Al Friesen as our PrinT cipal/Administrator beginning I August 1,1991. Mr. Friesen has 20 years teaching experience, most re / cently at Harrow School in Winni peg *1 School Division. He has spoken at many seminars reaching parents, teachers, camp staffs, etc., on topics such as parenting, discipline and mov ing into adulthood. Mr. Friesen has been the pastor at the St. Vital EMC Church since April 1990 and was at the Fort Garry EMC Church prior to that. Al and his wife, Laura, have four children ranging in age from eleven to twentyone years. Mr. Len Barkman, our Principal/Administrator from 1983-1991, is taking a leave of absence for one year to spend more time with his wife, Faye, and four sons as well as putting in some time at the university. Len is a resident of Landmark, Manitoba, and attends the Prairie Rose EMC Church.
Praying and Fasting in Zimbabwe by Rev. A. Ndlovu Bulawayo, Zimbabwe (MWC) — May I share with you what happened at our church in the month of October 1990? We organized some days of prayer and fast ing. These were on the 14th and 28th respectively. We requested the church to fast and pray those days for our building plans. We have never had such prayer before. The prayer session was scheduled to start at 7 in the morning and to continue to 8:45.1 never expected people to come to church that early or to pray, for that mat ter. When I arrived at church at 6:55, the church sanctuary had over 300 people. I cried in my heart that I was a man of no faith. When we went into prayer session at about 7:10, we had about 450 people in the church. This was a refreshing ex perience when the church poured her heart out to the Lord. It was the same thing again on the 28th. Praise the name of the Lord. We are hop ing to continue fasting and praying at least one Sunday every month. It is excit ing to wrestle with the Lord in prayer be cause at the end of the day he blesses us. We will not let him go except he blesses
fam/
^MS Xi BlSIfl 9J-92
When you give grain or cash to the Canadian Foodgrains Bank, you’re doing two things. You’re supporting your own church’s ministry of world relief and development, and you’re helping to relieve hunger. Consider sharing your resources. Make a deposit. Designate your contribution to the account of
Mennonite Central Committee For more information about how to make a grain or other donation, or to be involved in a grain drive, please phone or write:
Rev. A. Ndlovu pastors the Lobengula Brethrert in Christ Church in Bulawayo (Zambia).
CANADIAN FOODGRAINS BANK Box 767 Winnipeg, MB R3C 2L4 Toll Free Number: (8001 665-0377 Local: (2041 944-1993 Fax: {204} 943-2597 -----------
1991 EMCup
The Endeavour Fellowship Chapel
Hockey Tournament November 8, 9, 10, 1991
30th Anniversary
For more information, contact: Doug Friesen Ph. 257-1682
SORRY, we messed up the cover photo on the last Messenger (Sept. 13). The photo should have been reduced to smaller proportions, something like the sample below:
The Messenger
FVANGtUCAI. EVANGtHCAI. MENNONITE MfNNONITE CONFERENCE CON^EAENCE
VOL 29 NO 17
'seat13-91 13-91
US.
Great things are happening in our church. We have just baptized 76 people and it is my prayer that they grow in the knowledge of the Lord and Savior. Please continue to pray for us.
Urgent food need.s exist in the world, particularly in Africa. The Canadian Foodgrains Bank is a consortium of II church partners committed to addressing these needs. This year the Foodgrain.s Bank is seeking 20.(XX) mt in donated foodgrains.
‘ ‘A word apttv .spoken is like lIu apptes apples of of gold ^old in settings of siU’cr.” •(•nnrrtw
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is planning a on October 13, 1991.
We would like to extend this invitation to all who have been associated with the work in En deavour: V.B.S., camp, carpenters, special speakers, missionaries, etc. Services will be at 10:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. (Sask, time), with a noon meal provided. If you plan to attend please contact us by September 30: Leroy Scharfenberg (306) 547-5445 or Peter Steppan (306) 547-5439 or Box 89, Endeavour, Sask. SOA OWO
CONTRIBUTORS: Lucille Maharry is a free lance writer from Creston, Iowa. L. Marie Enns, from Meander River, Alta., attends the High Level Christian Fellowship (EMC). She is the mother of Arlyn and Lyndell Enns, missionaries at Fort Chipewyan, Alta., and Tanzania, Africa, respectively. Linda Beadle, formerly from Minitonas, Man., now lives in Red Deer, Alta. Jeff and Laural Ann Plett (Landmark) are involved in church planting in Germany, un der the EMC Board of Misisons. Peter and Mary Thiessen (Morris) manage the New Tribes Mission guest house in Chi huahua, Mexico. Ben Friesen, a member of the Steinbach EMC Church, represents the Board of Mis sions on the EMC Vision 2CXX) Committee.
THE DEADLINE for receiving poems,
articles, stories and photos for the Christmas issue of The Messenger is November 25.
THE MESSENGER is published every other week by The Evangelical Mennonite Conference Board of Church Ministries, Box 1268, Steinbach, Manitoba, ROA 2A0. Second Class Mail; Registration Number 0591. Undelivered copies, change of address and new subscriptions should be mailed to the above address. The Messenger is a member of Meetinghouse. Editor: Menno Hamm. PAGE 4
THE MESSENGER
Janzen Announces Plans to Leave MEDA Presidency After 10 years as president of Mennonite gram has developed increasing competence and recognition in international development Economic Development Associates (MEDA), Neil Janzen has declared his desire to step circles, said Troyer. “In the past year, for ex down. The MEDA board of directors accept ample, our micro-enterprise assistance pro ed his decision with reluctance and with “deep gram has helped 4,0(X) third world businesses, appreciation for his long and distinguished and the target for the coming year is 7,300. On the domestic side, the Janzen years service,” said MEDA chair LeRoy Troyer. Janzen joined MEDA in 1979 and became have seen solid progress in establishing forums president in 1981. He presided over a decade for fellowship among Christian business and of significant growth for MEDA, an associa professional people. The annual MEDA con vention has grown into the largest annual intertion of 2,000 businesspeople concerned with Mennonite gathering in North America, with applying faith to business and using businessattendance reaching as high as 700. The or oriented means of assisting the poor. ganization’s magazine. The Marketplace, has During his tenure, MEDA’s overseas proa circulation of 6,900. “During Neil’s presidency the mission of The Fisher Branch EMC MEDA has been clearly focused at the inter is planning a section of business, faith and development,” 25th Anniversary Celebration. said Troyer. “He has developed the organiza Date: October 6, 1991 tion into a unique forum for those who see Time: 3 p.m. business as mission.” We are inviting all those who have attended and have been associated with the Fisher Branch EMC, and anyone else interested, fora time of worship and fellowship. The service is planned for 3 p.m., with lunch following. For more information, call Bert (372-6792) or Dan (372-6723). You are most welcome to attend the morning worship service at 11 a.m.
PASTOR NEEDED Pelly Fellowship Chapel requires a pastor. If interested, please call: Lewis Anfinson (306) 594-4743 or Eldred Hamm (306) 595-4961, or write Lewis Anfinson, Box 24, Pelly, Sask. SOA 2Z0
S.B.C. WORKDAY Friday, October 11
Inservice for Christian Educators An ACT (Aid to Christian Teaching) in service weekend for Christian educators will take place on October 18-20 at the Mennonite Collegiate Institue in Gretna, Man. Featuring many fine resource persons, the ACT weekend seeks to provide a hands-on ex perience in Christian education at the con gregational level for Sunday school teachers, superintendents, pastors, and members of congregational Christian education com mittees. The live-in nature of the weekend adds to the quality of the learning as participants have time to visit informally and enjoy each others’ company over several days. The program commences on Friday, October 18, at 6:00 p.m., and concludes Sunday, October 20, at 4:15 p.m. Accommodations and meals will be
COMING EVENTS October 4, 6:30 p.m. RGBI Gratitude Banquet International Inn Winnipeg, Man. Phone: 488-4032, 326-1334 or 746-8228 October 5 EMC Ministerial Meeting “Vision 2000 EMC" Crestview EMC Church 271 Hamilton Avenue Winnipeg, Man. October 6 Recovery of Hope Seminar for troubled marriages Winnipeg, Manitoba Phone: (204) 275-6649 October 6 25th Anniversary Fisher Branch EMC Church Fisher Branch, Man. Phone: (204) 372-6792 October 11 Student Work Day Steinbach Bible College Steinbach, Man. Phone: (204) 326-6451
Hespeler Centre to be Dedicated Winnipeg’s German-Canadian Community is proud to announce the long awaited dedi cation of the Hon. Wilhelm Hespeler Centre on Thursday, October 10, 1991. There will be a celebration in the form of a dedication dinner in the Skyview Ballroom of the Marlborough Winnipeg, 331 Smith Street, sponsored by the German-Canadian Congress (MB) Inc. The guest speaker will be the Hon. Jake Epp. Tickets for this important event are avail able through the German-Canadian Congress Office, Tel.: 338-7903 at a cost of $30.00 per person. The reception will take place at 6:15 p.m., dinner will be served at 7:00 p.m. The enter tainment will be by The Faith and Life Male Voice Choir.
October 13 30th Anniversary Endeavour Fellowship Chapel Endeavour, Sask. Phone: (306) 547-5445 October 14
THANKSGIVING October 18-20 “Aid to Christian Teaching (ACT) Weekend” Mennonite Collegiate Institute Gretna, Manitoba Phone; (204) 327-5891 October 28-31 Billy Graham School of Evangelism Lake Louise, Alberta Phone: (612) 366-8020 November 1-2 “Wordpower in Winnipeg” Christian Writers' Conference Mennonite Brethren Bible College Winnipeg, Man.
Phone: (204) 669-6575
To hire a student call 326-6451 All contributions above minimum wage are tax deductible. provided by the Mennonite Collegiate Institute. Tuition, including meals and accommoda tions, is $125. Persons interested in more in formation, or application forms, can contact the Conference of Mennonites in Manitoba at 888-6781 (Winnipeg) or Allan Dueck, the lo cal ACT coordinator, at 327-5891 (Gretna). The ACT weekend is jointly sponsored by the Conference of Mennonites in Manitoba, the Commission on Education (Newton, Kans.), the Mennonite Board of Congregation al Ministries (Elkhart, Ind.), and the Mennonite Publishing House (Scottdale, Pa.).
November 2 Recovery of Hope Seminar for pastors and church workers Fort Garry M.B. Church Winnipeg, Man. Phone: (204) 275-6649 November 7-9, 7:30 p.m. Musical “Song of Norway” Mennonite Collegiate Institute Gretna, Man. Phone: (204) 327-5891 November 7-8 Mennonite Studies Symposium “Mennonites and Modern Wars” University of Winnipeg Winnipeg, Man. Phone: (204) 786-9104
November 9-10 CO Conference & Reunion Winnipeg and Altona, Man. Phone: (204) 669-6575 or (204) 888-6781, Ext. 243 November 14-17 MEDA Convention 1991 “The Business of Service” Lancaster Host Resort Lancaster, PA Phone: (204) 944-1995
November 15-17 Building on Hope Seminar Marriage relationships Winnipeg, Manitoba Phone: (204) 275-6649
Pontius' Puddle THE WORST TRAG-EbY OF THIS DECADE COULD BE THE failure of OUR SAVING'S PROG-RAMS.
YOU mean the COLLAPSE OF OUR SAVING'S -t- LOAN INSTITUTIONS THAT COULb COST SILLIONS OFDOLLARS!
NO, THE CUTBACKS IN OUR MISSION PROG-RAHS THAT COULD COST e>iLLIONS OF UNSAVED SOULS. jv, iK
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SEPTEMBER 27, 1991
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Missions
The Seesen church enjoyed a barbecue dinner at the Jeff Plett residence on August 25.
Some took a “swing” at badminton.
Church Affiliation: The Joys and Sorrows
GERMANY
Transition Period “Does anyone want to affiliate with us?” has been a most impor tant question for our small church in Seesen for about a year now. On September 19,1990, the church members, together with the mission board representatives, Henry Klassen and John Stoesz, sat down together to discuss the future of the Seesen church. It was decided that the EMC Conference would pull out of Seesen after faithfully supporting the work for 14 years, since 1976. The time had come for a major change to take place. The Seesen church was to gather information in the next year of the various churches or Conferences that would be viable options for church affiliations. We would be joining a German church organization. The church has probably never been quite the same since. An un certain future lay ahead of us. Questions like, “Doesn’t the EMC want us anymore? Couldn’t we stay EMC?” “Which is the best group for us and will they send a full-time pastor?” and “Will 1 be able to con tinue to feel at home here in the church after so many changes? What do I do if I don’t like the new group?” filled our minds. We were somewhat fearful and uncertain, but we proceeded to gather the needed information. We contacted the leaders of churches that we considered viable candidates for the affiliation, the Mennonite Church in Bad Pyrmont, the Mennonite Church in Wolfsburg, the Evangelical Free Church, the Baptist Church and the Mennonitische Heimatmission (Mennonite Home Mission). We interviewed the pas5 ■ I I i I I I I 1 I I • Others enjoyed visiting in the shade.
tors and asked many questions. We prayed much to our Lord for guidance and wisdom. We visited the church services of the groups where possible. We tried to pinpoint the strengths and the weaknesses of each of the groups as we saw them. We considered the needs of our church people and asked ourselves which group was perhaps best able to meet those needs. Many factors came into view that needed careful, prayerful consideration. We were not always agreed in certain matters. PAGE 6
Sometimes I would ask, “Lord, do you really want us to go through with this decision? It is so hard.” Then He would reassuringly say through His Word, “Yes, go ahead. This is my will for you now. ‘God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus’” (Phil. 4:19).
The youngest set preferred the activities around the sandbox.
The time had come to make a decision and so seven faithful church members gathered together on August 14, 1991. Many questions had been answered but many more were still unanswered. There was still some fear, some uncertainty, but also strong evidence of unity and a faith in our God who would lead us in making the right decision. We decided for the Baptist church in Goslar, which is about 20 kilometers from Seesen. We strongly felt they were the group that had shown most interest in helping us and in evangelizing here in Seesen. Their theology is also similar to our Mennonite theology, especially as it concerns the close association between baptism and church membership. The chances of our church staying together without anyone splitting away we felt were best given under the Baptist leadership. The decision has been made and we find ourselves in a not-soeasy transition period. Getting to know a new pastor, establishing a trust relationship with him, seeking fellowship with people who are as yet strangers to us takes much patience and love and perhaps also a determination to make this friendship work. It is definitely a challenge in faith, in love and in perseverance. Please pray together with us that each of us here in Seesen will be up to the task, Jeff Plett P.S. The Board of Missions has decided to send Henry Klassen, executiue secretary, to Germany during the last two weeks of October to help finalize the transfer. An official service of transfer is planned for October 27, 1991. THE MESSENGER
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MEXICO
The Old, Old Story New and Appropriate for Today We are living in a fast-changing world, in the political, economical, as well as in the spiritual scenes. The political scene can change overnight from peace to war, where one leader is put down and the other is put up. Inflation seems to be out of control as prices, as well as the national debt, keep on going up, and the lead ers of this world don’t know where to turn. On the spiritual scene, it seems as if every day there are new groups and new ways to find spiritual satisfaction, new do’s and don’ts. Praise the Lord that we have the written Word, the Bible, in which we can completely put our confidence! The gospel message that we share is old and new - old as far as age goes, but still cunent (it will never change), and so new that it transforms lives. Every person, man, woman, boy or girl who accepts the mes-
sage becomes a new creature in Christ (2 Cor. 5:17). Are wfe as believers, as a church or mission, convinced that this gospel is the solution to this world’s problems? Are we preaching the pure gospel of grace? May we never deviate from it! We know that if anyone sees himself as totally hopeless and places his complete trust in the finished work of Christ at Calvary, he becomes a new creature in Christ (John 1:12,13). God is satisfied with the payment that Christ made by dying for us. Are we also satis fied or are we still trying to improve a little bit on what Christ did by adding works to the gospel of grace? (Eph. 2:8,9). It is God who works in us to will and to act out the good works after we are saved through the power of the Holy Spirit indwelling us (Eph. 1:13,14; 2:10; Phil. 2:13). Let’s not look to political or religious lead ers of this world, but to God alone for help and strength (2 Sam. 22:2,3). This is our desire as we serve the Lord in Mexico. Peter and Mary Thiessen
BACK IN CANADA
Diane and Ernie Koop Ernie and Diane Koop and their young son, Michael (Steinbach EFC), have returned on special leave from service in Nicaragua.
Please continue to pray for the Koops
Messenger News PULPIT EXCHANGE Rosenort, Man.: Ward Parkinson spoke to us on July 28 on “Faithfulness and Purity Come with Price Tags.” How true, and how necessary that we pay the price! After a very successful week of Vacation Bible School in Woodlands, our group also participated in St. Adolphe and later at The Pas. This last school involved native children, resident missionaries Dennis and Amanda An derson and our youth pastor, Amos and Wendy Fehr. Larry Eidse served as camp speaker at Roseau River Bible Camp from July 28 to August 3. On August 4 we had a commissioning ser vice for Chris and Revita Kroeker, who have since left for the Paraguayan mission field with their little son. Frank and Marge Kroeker also said “farewell” to the church and they have also returned to Paraguay. Allan Kehler, pastor of the Altona EMMC, spoke to us from Jonah 1 on August 11. He pictured for us “The Scenic Route to Nineveh.” Thank you for this pulpit exchange. A week later our pastor spoke at the Winkler Gospel Mennonite Mission Church. Chuck and Luella Brandt have left us for a year of studies at Briercrest Biblical Semi nary. Others who are studying include Leanne Kroeker, Bryan Loewen and Patricia Loewen at Steinbach Bible College, Karla Dueck at Providence College, and Russ Brandt, Curtis Friesen, Darren Reimer, Don Kroeker and David Kroeker at the University of Manitoba. Mary Loewen has returned to Mexico for another teaching assignment. She will also be training new teachers. Dave L. Friesens have moved from their country home into an apartSEPTEMBER 27, 1991
MacGregor, Man.:
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y Baptism at the MacGregor EMC on May 26. Back row (left to right): Ray Hill, Trevor Neustaeter, Michael Hill. Tyler Giesbrecht, Debbie Emerson, Pastor Jerry Plett. Front: Dorothy Hill, Carolyn Neustaeter, Roxie Giesbrecht, Jennifer Hill, Heather Giesbrecht, Charlene Rem pel, Phyllis Plett.
4 parentichild dedication took place at the MacGregor church on Father’s Day, June 16. Left to right: Pastor Jerry and Phyllis Plett, Mark and Sandi Unrau with Russell, Ken and Diana Wright with Emily, Tim and Liz Sawatzky with Matthew, Gordon and Amy Rempel with Lindsay, Richard and Karen Sawatzky with Brittany, Ted and Irene Reimer with Joshua.
ment in Morris. They held an auction sale on September 3. May God bless you in your fur ther service for Him. C.B. Loewen used Matthew 7:13-27 to speak on “The Church - Apostate or Apostol ic?” He stressed the importance of absolute obedience to the Word of God.
On September 8 another pulpit exchange brought Pastor Michael Derksen from Rosenort Fellowship into our morning service. He spoke to us on “Wounded Soldiers,” based on the experience of Elijah when he felt for saken and rejected by both God and men. Levi Dueck PAGE 7
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"Sonivard Ho,” closing program of the DVBS week.
Albert Heal and his family
DVBS - A PIONEER THEME
Prairie Grove, Man.: Around the West Lorette/Prairie Grove areas, the Prairie Grove Fellowship Chapel has a great reputation for having a Daily Vacation Bible School no one would want to miss! July 8-12 this year was not a disappointment to any. Under the guidance of directors Gertrude Kropp and Tim Kroeker, our chapel was teaming with feathered Indians, cowboys and old-time set tlers. Sixty-five children from all around the area attended the DVBS, with the pioneer theme, “Sonward Ho,” breaking an attendance
b£Ly
“It's only fair that the youth leader get the biggest fish.” Darnell Plett with the biggest fish at the young people’s lather-son fishing trip.
record from past years! A lively foot-stomping closing program was enjoyed by many par ents, family and friends on Friday. Following the program a luncheon was served, while all
could view crafts made during the week at DVBS. Thanks to all the DVBS staff, teachers and helpers for a great week! Summer really seems to bring out the na ture lover and outdoors person in us Prairie Grove folk. We took full advantage of God’s great outdoors. St. Malo was the site for our annual church camp-out August 12-14. Hot weather, good fellowship, great excitement and a challenging guest speaker, Albert Heal from Northern Canada Evangelical Mission, along with his family, made our weekend full of special memories. Sailing Lake was the destination of the father-son fishing trip. The September long weekend proved to test the real man! All who went came back with some version of a “big fish” story. The mother-daughter retreat sounded a little more relaxed, thanks to the use of John and Wilma Unger’s cottage at Fal con Lake. What a special time it was to have a few days of quality time in God’s great outdoors! A newcomer to our church arrived in mid August. This newcomer was very much need ed and an answer to many prayers. Needless to say, everyone was excited. The newcomer? A bungalow from our sister church in Land mark, the Prairie Rose EMC. Thanks to Edmer Reimer’s hard work and lots of muscle from our men, our bungalow project is nearing completion. No more over crowding during Sunday school... for a
Let Tls ‘Ifiank Cfod . . . r ‘“l^member this; the matt tvfio plants few seeds witt have a small crop; the one who plants many seeds will have a large crop. ‘Each one should give, then, as he has decided, not with regret or out of a sense of duty; for Qod loves the one who gives gladly, find Qod is able to give you more than you need, so that you will always have all you need for yourselves and more than enough for every good cause, fls the scripture says, ‘die gives generously to the poor, lifts hitufness Costs /orever. ’ find Qod, who supplies seed for the sower and bread to eat, will also supply you with all the seed you need
PAGE 8
while! The young people and the Ladies’ Fel lowship also look forward to using the large open area. Facilities that are too small, and overcrowding, are signs that God’s family is
Prairie Grove church mother-daughter retreat.
growing. A challenging but exciting situation for any church to be in! Fall brings with it the start of a new Sun day school session, boys’ and girls’ clubs, young people’s, etc. The Sunday morning serv ice planned for September 29 will include a dedication for all Sunday school teachers and club staff. Thanks for all the love, prayers and hours of preparation you all put into your serv ice to our Lord in leading and teaching His children. Lorraine Giesbrecht
and make it grow, to produce a rich harvest from your generosi^. die will always make you rich enough to be generous at all times, so that many will thank Qod for your gifts through us. ‘for this service you perform not only meets the needs of Qod’s people, hut also produces an outpouring of gratefurC thanks to ^od. 5ln<f hccause of the proof which this service of yours brings, many will give glory to ^od for your loyalty to the gospel of Christ, which you profess, and for your generosiQr in sharing with them anti all others. Und so they will pray for you with great affection for you be cause of the extraordinaiy grace Qod has shown you. Let us thank god for 3fis priceless gifl.” 2 Corintltians 9:6-15 (TET?)
THE MESSENGER
CAMP RALLY HELD
Fisher Branch, Man.: August started off with many youngsters (and some adults) at tending Daily Vacation Bible School. Another project that many of us were involved in was the work at Beaver Creek Bible Camp. A follow-up rally for campers, parents and staff was held at Camp Morton on the September 1 weekend. What a privilege to spend part of our summer studying God’s Word and in shar ing and caring for others! We greatly rejoiced when at last, after a twoyear wait, Manuel Aguire was finally able to welcome his wife and two small children to Canada (all the way from Colombia)! We were very happy to have a church fellowship lunch in their honour on September 8. Welcome to Fisher Branch, Manuel, Helen, Andreas and Stephen! God bless you! On September 17 the ladies enjoyed an evening of fun and fellowship. Sherryl
DVBS at the Fisher Branch church.
Woloshyn demonstrated and helped us do some soft sculpture. Leona Friesen, former missionary to Mexico, and more recently from Millar College of the Bible, spoke on the role of a woman.
A RICH EXPERIENCE
Kleefeld, Man.: We praise the Lord that God’s family keeps on growing. We count it a blessing to be able to report another bap tism in our church. A hearty welcome to Dave Fehr and Gus LaBelle, who were baptized on July 14, and Hilde LaBelle, who was received into membership that same morning. For many years we have already enjoyed and ap preciated their warm fellowship and look for ward to many more in the future. Belated congratulations go out to Bob and Iris Bartel on the adoption of their chosen daughter, Katryn, from Romania. Iris spoke at our Cradle Roll picnic this summer and told us all about their experience in choosing their precious little girl. The following is a brief sum mary of that experience, written by Iris herself: “Our life changed dramatically last Christ. mas when we heard of the plight of the many children in Romanian orphanages. There was no doubt in our mind that God planned for us to take the risks involved and go to Roma nia. We immediately began looking into it and were amazed at how quickly we moved along. From decision to departure was 2‘/2 months. “We were greeted at the airport in Bucharest by our Romanian contact, with the good news that if we wanted we could adopt a newborn girl. A dream come true! Our daughter had been bom only a few days before, but since
SARAH HAMM 1911-1991
Iris Bartel with little Katryn, chosen daugh ter from Romania.
her mother, a 16-year-old girl, could not keep her, she was destined for the orphanage. We started adoption proceedures right away, but because of several delays in the courts the adoption was only final twelve weeks later. It was a long and difficult time, but also a time filled with God’s presence and peace and a de veloping of a love for the Romanian people. We were blessed with an interpreter, who be came very dear to us and whom we could trust. It was in many ways a rich, rewarding experience and will always be regarded as a highlight in our lives.” Nettie Fast
A baptismal service took place at the Kleefeld church on July 14. Left to right: Pastor John and Clara Koop, Erica and Dave Fehr, Hilde and Gus LaBelle.
SEPTEMBER 27, 1991
Our very best wishes go out to Stanley and Lavem Goias and Bert Vandersteen, who are sick. Thought: Thank you. Lord, for the care you give us during our earthly journey. Make us all conscious that you are able to do immeas urably more than we ask or imagine. Rose Plett
Our mother, grandmother and great grandmother, Sarah Hamm, passed away on Sunday, July 28,1991. Left to remember her are her six children: three daughters, Luella and Ben Andres (Ethelbert), Ida and Arthur Martynes (Ruddell), and Martha and John Jan zen (Saskatoon); three sons, Edward and Laura (Norquay), Eldred and Helen (Arran), and Elmer and Margaret (Portage la Prairie); 28 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren; one brother, Jake and Mary Janzen (Norquay); one sister, Susan Wiebe (Saskatoon). She was predeceased by her husband, Jacob; one son, Clarence Peter; two sisters, Ann Boschman and Mary Dyck; and three brothers, Henry, Abe and Peter. Mom was bom November 21,1911, at Os ler, Sask., the daughter of Henry and Sarah Janzen. She attended school at Aberdeen. On May 21, 1933, she married Jacob Hamm at Aberdeen and they farmed there until 1939. Because of droughts and farming difficulties they moved their young family to the Arabella district where she worked very hard indoors and outdoors. Playing her guitar and singing with her family and with the church congre gation were very special to her. Organizing Sunday school Christmas programs was a great joy for her. Many a Vacation Bible School teacher en joyed her hospitality and fine cooking, as did her many friends. One of the most important things in her life was her love and devotion to her family. We will miss you. Mom; you were very spe cial to us. You are in a far better place, rejoic ing with the angels and loved ones in heaven. We know we shall see you again someday soon. Praise His wonderful name! The Family PAGE 9
MARIA HAMM 1900-1991
“Biessed are the dead in the Lord from henceforth: yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do fol low them” (Rev. 14:13) “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints” (Psalm 116:15). It has pleased our loving heavenly Father to call unto Himself our beloved mother to be forever with Him in glory. Her going home occuned at 10:20 a.m. on September 9, 1991, at the MacGregor Health Care Centre. Our mother was born in the village of Neuanlage, east of Gretna, Manitoba, on January 25,1900. She had a happy childhood and attended the Edinburg School. With lots of cousins in the village to play with, life was great. Her bosom friend seems to have been her cousin, also a Maria Schellenberg. One story she has often related is how they would sit on a double rope swing in the evening and sing. The buggies passing nearby would slow their pace just to listen. Mother’s parents moved to Gouldtown, Saskatchewan, when she was fourteen years of age. Here she was baptized upon her con fession of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ by Bishop David Doerksen of the Sommerfelder Mennonite Church. On April 27, 1919, she MRS. MARY FRIESEN 1899-1991
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints" (Psalm 115:15). God called our precious mother home to be with Him on Monday morning at 10:15 a.m. After having sat with her and watched her suffer for three long weeks, it was an answer to our prayers to see her go peacefully and to finally rest. We are thankful that during these last weeks each family member was able to come and see her, and, although she did not speak, she indicated recognition of each one. It has drawn our family closer to each other, as together we sat with Mom, held her hand, prayed for her, read scripture and sang favorite, old German hymns, which always seemed to soothe her. Mom was born to Peter and Susanna Sie mens on February 27, 1899, at Rosenhof, Manitoba. This is where she grew up and received her education. She was baptized PAGE 10
and Isaac Hamm were married at Gouldtown in the home of her parents, the Peter Schellenbergs. They began their life together on a farm north of Gouldtown. In the fall of 1920 they moved to Manitoba to work for the John Hildebrands of Gretna. Mother and Mrs. Hildebrand were sisters. From 1922 to 1930 they lived in Altona, Manitoba, where Father was a barber. In the summer of 1930 another move took them back to Gouldtown to open a general store, post office and trucking busi ness. In 1939 they began to look for a suit able place to farm. Our parents were concerned that the war just beginning at that time would take their sons away. In the fall of 1942 they moved to MacGregor with the whole family. After 20 years on the farm they built a new home on the edge of town and retired. Our parents were hard workers. The plant ings of shade and fruit trees around their last home bear fragrant witness even today of their labours years ago. Mother and Father worked together to beautify a place where they would welcome, entertain and inspire their growing family of children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, as well as many relatives and friends. Mother enjoyed cooking for others and only the best food would do. Her fingers were al ways busy with knitting needles, a crochet hook or the sewing machine. Many beautiful photographs and slides remind us of her joy in growing flowers, especially pansies, which were Father’s favourites. We remember Mother as a friend, as a disciplinarian, as an optimist. When she reached the age of 88 one of the children reminded her it was only two years till she would be 90. Her immediate re ply was, “En dann yeht daut bet de hundat” (and then we move on to the hundred). On October 29, 1989, we moved Mother into the MacGregor Personal Ccire Home. Her body remained fairly strong but her ability to
remember and recognize loved ones faded. On September 2 jaundice revealed liver failure and only one week later our Lord called our mother to her eternal home. Our parents shared the joys and sorrows of marriage for 65 years, seven months and 15 days. Her heavenly Father blessed Mother with 91 years, seven months and 15 days. Mother was predeceased by her husband, Isaac; by her parents, Peter and Margaretha (Linger) Schellenberg; five brothers, Peter, David, Henry, Jacob and George; three sis ters, Aganetha (Mrs. John Hildebrand), Mar garet (Mrs. John Klassen) and Anna Schellenberg; one son, Elmer Hamm, and one granddaughter, Valerie Rempel. Left to mourn her passing are daughter-inlaw Lena (Mrs. Elmer Hamm)(Swift Current, Sask.), Orlanda and Ben Rempel (MacGregor, Man.), Henrietta and Ben Friesen (Steinbach, Man.), Otto and Margaret (Winkler, Man.), Menno and Elvina (Steinbach, Man.) and El vira (MacGregor, Man.); two brothers, John and Nettie Schellenberg (Herbert, Sask.) and Abe Schellenberg (Herbert, Sask.); one sister, Henrietta and Jacob Funk (Swift Current, Sask.); 21 grandchildren, 44 great grandchildren, many relatives and friends. Though we feel the loss of our loved one, we do not sonow as those who have no hope but are looking forward to a glad reunion in heaven.
upon the confession of her faith and received into the membership of the Rosenort Evan gelical Mennonite Church, at that time called the “Kleingemeinde.” On October 22, 1922, she pledged her love and life to Cornelius T, Friesen. Twelve children were born to them. Her lifestyle and Christian example has greatly impacted all of us children and grand children and will live on in our lives, even though she is not with us anymore. Mom was a quiet, gentle person, who enjoyed life and sewing numerous blankets for M.C.C., bring ing baked goods to people in need, and help ing wherever she could. She never complained. Even in the last years when we would ask her if things were okay, she would reply, “Es got” (it’s good), always expressing appreciation for small things we did for her. Mom was a peacemaker, never one to be critical, seeing the positive side of life. She had a great sense of humor, which was still evi dent these last years, even though her memory
was beginning to fail her. We have so many precious memories of her. We remember the special times we had at the lake together as a family. She would enjoy those weekends together immensely, going from cabin to cabin to see where each one lived, enjoying the outdoors, but especially be ing with her children. Being a large family, our holiday gatherings and Sunday evening gettogethers got quite noisy at times, but never once did we hear Mom say it was too loud, and she insisted on staying up until everyone left. She was a mother who got totally involved in the interests of her children, helping wher ever she could, whether that was making hockey uniforms, sewing combine tarps, or checking the “Co-operator” for machinery ads. The grandchildren remember her for the doughnuts she baked; the slingshots she helped to make; the things she could create, such as dolls from a handkerchief, shovels out of javex bottles, paper wallets and boats. She taught us so much about being open-
Sleep on, beloved, sleep and take thy rest Lay down thy head upon the Saviour’s breast We loved thee well, but Jesus loved thee best Sleep on, good night, good night.
We wish to thank all our dear friends who prayed for us, brought food, offered help in preparation for the memorial service and sent cards of condolences. The Family/
THE MESSENGER
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minded, non-judgmental and tolerant. She al lowed us to be ourselves. She was the best mother in the whole world! We as a family would like to express spe cial appreciation to the homecare staff who helped us so much in these last years and to all those who have shown us love and support. Mom is survived by daughter-in-law Mary, Susan, Bill and Helen, Frank and Gertie, He len and Ike Heinrichs, Tina and Pete Reimer, Len and Bertha, Art and Ruth, Millie and Al len Reimer, Elmer and Mary Ann, Laura and Ed Friesen; 35 grandchildren and 29 great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, Cor nelius T. Friesen, in 1988; son Peter in 1990; son Johnny in infancy; four sisters and three brothers. We feel sad today, feeling the pain of part ing from a mother who loved us a great deal and whom we loved in return. But we are com forted knowing that Mom is alive and well in the presence of Jesus, seeing Him face to face!
J
Just think: Of stepping on land and finding it heavenly, Of touching a hand and finding it the Father’s, Of breathing new air and finding it celestial, Of waking up in glory and finding it home. The Friesen family
Births KORNELSON — to Clarence and Norma Kornelson of Steinbach, Man., a son, Jared, on August 19, 1991. REMPEL - to Gordon and Amy Rempel of Austin, Man., a daughter, Michelle Lee, on September 4, 1991. NERNBERG - to Allan and Clare Nembcrg of Win nipeg, Man., a son, Tyson Allan, on July 23,1991. SIEMENS • to Jeff and Tammy Siemens of Winni peg, Man., a son, Jillian Deidra, on June 12,1991. BARTEL - to Kerry and Myrna Bartel of Rosenort, Man., a son, Kyle Abram, on June 29, 1991.
VISION Living and Sharing the Good News
EMC Book Review Reclaiming a Nation. Arnell Motz, Edi tor. Richmond, B.C.: Church Leadership Library, 1990,280 pp. Reviewed by Ben Fries en, Steinbach, Man. The book Reclaiming a Nation is written as a challenge to re-evangelize Canada by the year 2000. This is a book about Canada’s Christianity, its decline, its need to be revital ized. I highly recommend the reading of this book for a full view of where we are and where we should go with the task of “Reclaiming a Nation” for God. Motz employs a number of writers and, with the help of graphs, tables and other helpful formats, makes a very convinc ing argument for every Canadian Christian to become involved in reaching Canadians for Christ. The book makes the assumption, based on research and with the help of Reginald Bibby’s book Fragmented Gods, that Cana dian church life has been in decline for 100 years, and the spiritual decline is picking up speed. Brian Stiller in his Foreword starts out by saying, “A rumour was started in Cana da which claimed that the United Nations no longer listed Canada as a Christian nation. Like many rumours, it seemed to have suffi cient truth to be believed. The fact is the Unit ed Nations never made such an assertion, even though the idea seemed to have some validity.” Only eight percent of Canadians be long to evangelical churches. In his Introduction, Motz states that “the purpose of this book is to examine the state of the church in Canada, the needs of the na tion, and then to listen to see what God could be saying to us.” SEPTEMBER 27, 1991
I Thess. 1:4,5
Following are chapter titles and authors: 1. State of the Canadian church - Arnell Motz 2. Who’s growing and who’s not - Arnell Motz 3. Future trends for our nation - William Wong 4. Church planting: the key to growth Murray Moerman 5. Guess who’s coming for dinner (dealing with ethnic evangelism in Canada) Murray Moerman 6. Ethnic receptivity factors - Enoch Wan 7. Who responds to the gospel and why Donald Posterski and Arnell Motz 8. Evangelism - distinctly Quebec - Wesley Peach 9. How churches are doing evangelism Arnell Motz 10. Local church research - Arnell Motz 11. Bridging where society hurts - Gerald Kraft 12. Year 2000: the challenge for vision - Arnell Motz I recommend reading Reclaiming a Nation for sheer information on church life in Cana da, but, more important than that, read it for the purpose of becoming involved in helping to reclaim Canada for Christ. If I have a question about the book, it is about statistics. Statistics are all-inclusive of all Trinitarian churches. With the social and religious changes in Quebec resulting in the church being deserted in droves and the rapid, steady decline in most mainline churches in Canada in the last 50 years, the point that evangelical church membership has increased by 2.2 percent is almost forgotten. Simply put, the overall statistics are so nega tively impacted by the reversals in the Catholic
Edwin Friesen Conference Pastor
The Other Side of Church Attending Sunday morning worship ser vices is great but it is an incomplete church experience. The Sunday worship service is an excellent occasion for corporate wor ship, Biblical teaching and for maintaining nodding acquaintances. But the worship service falls far short in several other key areas of what it means to be the church. It is hardly the forum for significant inter personal care-giving or the development of meaningful friendships or specific prayer for personal or family needs. And what about the integration of new people? I believe this is where small groups come in. I believe that every person in the church should have the opportunity to participate in and belong to a small group fellowship. Lil and I have found our own church ex perience greatly enriched by being part of a house fellowship. Since we are often gone to other churches on Sunday mornings, the house fellowship helps us to feel “con nected,” even though we miss many of the regular functions of our church. While pastoring the Kleefeld church, I was deeply troubled whenever people who had attended for a while, would choose to quit or attend some other place. At one point in a meeting with some of the church leaders, we reviewed each individual case of people who had left during the previous two years. Was there a common thread? In what way had we failed or missed their expectations? Though there were different factors as to why people had left, there was also a common thread. With few excep tions, the people who had left had not been a part of any small group in the church; i.e., Sunday school, choir, Bible study, clubs, ladies’ fellowship, etc. They had ex perienced corporate worship and teaching but had not experienced the equally impor tant dimension of church, that of body life in a small group. Too bad! Get on board! Join a group today or be gin a new one. You’ll be glad you did and so will others. Remember: “Where two or three come together in my name, there I am with them.” and other mainline churches as to take away hope over-all, while, in fact, if new births are counted, there seems to be an increase in real growth. That’s not saying we evangelicals can rest on our laurels because the point has been made that mainline church people don’t end up in evangelical churches in large numbers, and added to that is the challenge of new Canadians. Read the book for yourself. It’s available from the Conference Office.
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From the Editor Is It Really So Bad? AT THIS TIME of year it is customary in our country to pause and give thanks. Briefly we reflect on the past year and acknowledge that the Lord has indeed been faithful. With hardly a break in our stride we resume our daily ac tivities. This year, instead of counting my blessings, I began to make a list of complaints. I thought it would be a good way to spend some time. After all, there are many things in this beloved Canada that make me unhappy. For one thing, take a look at government. I don’t like the way our country is run. It is becoming more difficult to find an honest politician, one who doesn’t have a hidden agenda, or a scheme for personal gain. I’m disgusted with the patronage system where politicians reward their close friends with lucrative plums - at my expense. What about taxes? It costs us more and more to get less and less. 1 complain about the G.S.T. and all the hidden tax es we have to pay. It wouldn’t be so bad if a good portion of the taxes we pay would go to reduce the national debt. But no, the national debt keeps rising at an alarming rate. Equally disturbing is the widespread unemployment, aggra vated by shutdowns and layoffs. In this dismal setting some groups even have the nerve to go on strike, holding this country at ransom, for more pay, increased benefits, and un conditional job security. I am becoming uneasy also about the new trend of hiring by quotas, not on the basis of competence or qualifications, but by gender, language or skin colour. Does substituting one kind of discrimination for another somehow make both right? I think not. Another source of alarm is the growing moral decline in Canada. The producers of smut are becoming bolder each year. Things we used to blush about are now common sub jects of discussion. This country no longer offers protection to unborn babies. Violent crime and abuse increasingly threaten the safety of the innocent. Sometimes it even seems that criminals have more rights than victims. My list could go on and on, but I think I have included enough for you to understand how I feel about my beloved Canada. Finding my location so intolerable, I began to wonder if I might be happier in another country. Where would I rather live? I definitely would not choose Iraq. War and its accom panying hardships and bereavements don’t appeal to me. Nor would I want to be one of the Palestinian refugees on the West Bank. Disguised Israeli soldiers have been known to shoot and torture innocent children and teenagers. End less curfews don’t sound inviting, either. The plains of Bangladesh are too risky for disastrous floods and violent storms. I am glad I don’t have to live there. I don’t especially enjoy waiting in line, so Russia is off my list of better places to live . . . All things considered, I am really glad that God, by special design, placed me in Canada. This is no self-centred “betterPAGE 12
than-thou” statement like the Pharisee in Luke 18:11, “God, I thank Thee that I am not like other people . . What I am and where I live are not of my choice, but purely of God’s grace. Therefore, I will gratefully receive whatever He decides in His infinite wisdom is best for me: hardship or prosperity, ill ness or health, trials or benefits. And 1 will with thanksgiving do my part (even pay the G.S.T.) to make this country a better place for my descendants and my neighbours. And as I am able I will, with God’s help, pray for and help those in other lands whose needs and troubles are greater than my own. Will you join me? Menno Hamm
Home At Last DURING THE LAST few years Mother often expressed her wish to “go home.” Due to a fading memory she often felt confused, and her familiar surroundings seemed strange to her. So she would say, “I think I’ll go home now.” Mother’s sense of home was strong. Her adult life had centred around home, with Dad and their children. As the years went by the family circle grew to include in-laws, grandchildren, and later, great-grandchildren. Every one found acceptance and love in Mother’s heart and home. Even in her last months, when little else stimulated her, her eyes brightened and she smiled whenever little chil dren visited her. It was difficult to watch Mother lose her independence. Always a hard worker and generous provider, she more and more became dependent on others for her care and needs. When we, her family, and the home care workers could no longer provide the increasing care she needed, we agonized over the decision to move her into a per sonal care home. It was her “home” for only 22 months. It was difficult for Mother to give up her sense of digni ty. Even though the care givers were kind and gentle with her, she found it hard to accept the personal care she could no longer manage herself. But she was not one to hold grudges, and it seemed she soon forgot the indigni ties she endured. One of Mother’s favourite hymns, the German version of My Home is Over There, is one she was able to sing along with her children until shortly before her death. It expressed her longing to “go home.” On September 9 her wish was granted when the Lord opened the door of heaven and welcomed Mother to her eternal home. We, who are left behind, cherish memories of Mother’s life, example and love. More than ever, we also desire to “go home at last.” M.H. THE MESSENGER