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The Messenger
EVANGELICAL EVANGELICAL MENNONITE MENNONITE CONFERENCE CONFERENCE
VOL. VOL. 29 29 NO. NO. 19 19 Vm^OCT. OCT. 11/91 11/91
SILENCE ■
The wind whispers through the trees, Silenee disturbed by the rustling of leaves, A slap of beavertail against water Sends waterfowl into the air for proteetion. Around the bend emerges a canoe. Quietly it cuts through the calm waters Leaving behind it a small wake of disturbed water. Downstream the beaver re-emerges, The waterfowl return to their feeding. Flash of paddles dipping in water continues — The canoe disappears from sight behind bulrushes. Silence returns to the wilderness. The wind whispers through the trees. Silence disturbed by shouts. A rush of wind from birds’ wings And quick retreat of beavers. Around the bend emerges a canoe Behind it are six, seven, eight more. With shouts ofjoy and cries of pain they come. Upstream the beaver re-emerges and Waterfowl return to the coolness of water. The shouts fade in the distance As the canoes disappear behind wild rice. Silence returns to the wilderness.
The wind whispers through the trees. Silence disturbed by the dull drum of a motor. The sound swells and fades, it rises and falls. Is it coming or going? In confusion the beaver slaps its tail And around the bend emerges an 18-foot Lund. The wake is bigger this time The waves slap against the shoreline. Upstream the beaver re-emerges But slaps its tail and again disappears. Around the bend the 18-footer fades from sight Hidden by the ripe wild rice. Silence returns to the wilderness. The wind whispers through the trees. Confusion and noise interrupt the silence. Slap of beavertail turns heads — Children and adults with Jewellery-laden fingers point. Around the bend emerges a riverboat Its stacks pumping thick black smoke into the air. Downstream fish and waterfowl die Collecting in eddies by the shoreline. Flash offish fin as it surfaces and dives Seeking the security of the depths. Silence in the wilderness is only a memory. “DANO” Danny Olfert, November 22, 1988
A Theology of Earth-Keeping by Arden Thiessen
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nvironmental concerns are a relatively new development. Words like “ecology” and “pollution” have only recently become part of our everyday vocabulary. The three interlinking problems of accelerating population growth, depletion of natural resources, and the rapid pollution of the entire environment — water, land and air — have now irrevocably been brought to our attention. Whether or not we agree that the issue is as critical as the doom-sayers tell us, it would be irresponsible for us to ignore it. The heightened attention being given to the ecological issues forces us to come to grips with aspects of theology which have till now not been of great concern to us. What is the place of nature, the created world, in the divine purpose? And how does our human technology relate to God’s plan for His world? These questions are now inescapable and we must seek to deal with them from within the biblical revelation and our Christian tradition. How does the Bible teach us to think about the state of this world? Should we be concerned? Is it up to us to do something? When we hear of people who are ignorant of God we send missionaries. When we become aware of people who are starving, sick, or illiterate we feel responsible to help. When we hear of people in conflict we volunteer as God’s peacemakers. What, then, about this sick and troubled earth? Does God expect us to care? Would God want us to feel responsible? Further, does God care? Does God care about polluted air, dead fish, eroded farmland, depletion of the rain forests, holes in the ozone layer, and extinction of species which He created? At this point, our evangelical faith creates some difficulties for us. We have been taught that we must not love the world.
''How does the Bible teach us to think about the state of this world? Should we be con cerned?" The warning of I John 2:15-17, that the world with all its lust and pride is passing away, has made a deep impression upon us. Even though we now understand that “world” in this text refers to the system of evil and ungodliness present with us, we still retain the conviction that concern for the natural world is not nearly as important as concern for the souls of people. Secondly, we are waiting for the Second Coming. The Scriptures teach that we are to expect the return of Christ at any time. Some of the texts speak vividly about destruction by fire. So we look at this soiled earth and we shrug, “So what!” As we used to sing, “This world is not my home. I’m just a’passing through.” Thirdly, we don’t like the excesses of some earth-watchers. They may treat nature as if it were sacred. It may seem to us that they are actually worshiping nature. In recent years we have been introduced to a whole cluster of ideas from the Eastern religions; we call it the New Age Movement. This PAGE 2
movement fosters the doctrine that there is no distinction between us, God, and the rest of the created world. This monistic view of the world leads to a reverence for all plant and creaturely life that seems almost idolatrous. It is not the purpose of this essay to develop or propose solutions to the modern problems. Nor do I want to dictate what others must believe. Rather, this is an invitation to start thinking in a new direction about our role as keepers of the earth.
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he creation accounts in Genesis 1 and 2 teach that nature is not divine. This, I suggest, is one of the essential basics for clear thinking in these times. Nature is God’s idea; it was created by Him. Genesis establishes the separateness or apartness of the natural world. The world is objective to God. God is God by Himself, apart from the world. This separateness of the created world already implies the freedom of nature. While some find this concept difficult, I believe it has to be accepted in order to make sense out of the created world. The Creator upholds His creation, but He is not part of i». While Genesis teaches that nature is not divine, it does, however, declare that it is good (Genesis 1:25). God recognized the goodness of creation before man was made, suggesting that creation is good in itself, not merely because of its usefulness to man. (“Man” is used here as Genesis uses it, of male and female.) This goodness is derived from the Creator. A good and holy God would not have designed an imperfect world. God’s appreciation for His world is further expressed in other Scripture passages (e.g.. Job 38, 39). On the sixth day, God created man. Biologically, man is at home here in this created world; he is formed from the dust of the ground and lives here among the rest of God’s creatures. In another sense, however, man is distinct; he is made in the image of God. This may express the fact that man has rational and spiritual qualities that make it possible for him to know God and communicate with Him. Man is designed this way because he is to function on earth as the representative of the invisible God. Gerhard von Rad states, “Just as powerful earthly kings, to indicate their claim to dominion, erect an image of themselves in the province of their empire where they do not generally appear, so man is placed upon earth in God’s image as God’s sovereign emblem” (Genesis, p.58). Then God said to the man and the woman, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky, and over every living thing that moves on the earth” (Genesis 1:28). Further, man is given authority to use every plant on the earth for food. The concept of man’s dominion is developed further when it is said that man was placed in the garden to care for it and that he named all the other living creatures (Genesis 2:15,19,20). It is clear that man’s dominion is a delegated dominion. Man creates nothing. The possibilities for fruitfulness have already been established by God. Man can only discover and utilize the created potentialities. Man can only achieve
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anything as he recognizes and co-operates with the laws of nature that God has designed. Since this dominion has been delegated to him, man will be responsible for how he uses it. The earth belongs to him, not as a right but as a favour. The Maker has entrusted him with the earth. He will live here merely as a tenant, or as the steward, managing the earth for God. Old Testament scholars agree that the words “subdue” and “rule” in Genesis 1:28 are strong words. They could be used to support the idea that man may treat the earth harshly and severely. However, this impression is modified in 2:15, where it says Adam was placed in Eden to till and keep it. These Hebrew words suggest caring, watching and preserving.
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an was created for the role of dominion. Man is capable of this, and qualified for this, because he was designed in God’s image. And since his task has been given to him by God, he will be accountable to God for what he makes of it. Psalm 24:1 says, “The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it.” But Psalm 115:16 says, “The heavens are the heavens of the Lord, but the earth He has given to the sons of man.” Genesis shows how both can be true. The earth belongs to God because He made it; it belongs to man because it has been entrusted to him. The rest of the Scriptures assume this Creator-steward relationship. Man has the right to plow the land and to plant crops. He has the right to cut down the trees and to mine the hills for metals and precious stones. He can use the animals as beasts of burden and he may kill them for food. Man is free to use this world, but he is always accountable to God for how he does it. Various earth-keeping principles were incorporated right into the Mosaic Covenant. The singers of the Old Testament often express their appreciation for God’s creation. It is a good earth, and man has the right to enjoy it. This idea receives New Testament support in I Timothy 4:4, “Everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected ...” To reject God’s created benefits would be demonic, according to I Timothy 4:1. In a later chapter we are reminded that God “richly supplies us with all things to enjoy” (I Timothy 6:17). In general, especially in recent years, man has acted on God’s command with enthusiasm. We have learned to cultivate the soil and to grow more and better foods. We have learned how to dam rivers, irrigate deserts, fertilize land, and destroy pests. An acre of land may now produce more food than when God had it by Himself. Our supermarkets offer more luscious fruits than God ever created. We have learned to build. We have discovered the secrets locked up in the created world — in fire, water, steam, coal, oil, gas, uranium, solar energy and now the silicon chip. We can now stay warm in the coldest climates and cool in the hottest. We have learned the causes of most diseases; many can now be controlled, some have been wiped out entirely. In all this man has functioned within his role as a steward on earth. He has not behaved as did Prometheus in the Greek myth, stealing fire from a fellow god to give to man. Man did
OCTOBER 11, 1991
not wrestle these benefits away from God. It was God who challenged man to find them. Some have feared that when man improves matters he is usurping God’s powers. Rather, man is then exercising the dominion God gave to him. Man has, however, also made some terrible mistakes. Some mistakes have been caused by immediate economic necessities — marginal land has been over-grazed and hillsides have been over-cultivated, which have then turned into deserts. Some mistakes were due to ignorance; I suppose no one guessed that DDT would also destroy birds. And it was previously not understood that the destruction of a species’ habitat could cause its extinction. Another mistake has been the reckless misuse of the earth without giving thought to the long-term consequences. Steel furnaces have been built, fired by coal, without any concern for the sulphurous smoke that would be emitted. Pulp mills were built by rivers for the convenient flushing of waste, without realizing what it would do to marine life. Nuclear reactors were built before anyone knew what to do with the spent fuel. New substances were invented which cannot be destroyed. At many points the development of technology seems to be motivated, not by a concern for the long-term welfare of the earth and its inhabitants, but by the lust for quick riches. Modern man has an insatiable appetite for more goods and an easier life. Consequently, man’s dominion seems to have
acre of land may now produce more food than when God had it by Himself. ” degenerated into an expression of arrogance and selfishness. The Scriptures teach some kind of relationship between human morality and the health of the ecosystem. When Adam and Eve sinned, the created world was subjected with them to the curse (Genesis 3). There are repeated promises in the Scriptures that when God’s people obey, the earth will be productive. And there are warnings that disobedience will result in a barren, hostile earth (e.g., Deuteronomy 11:13-17; 28:38-42,45; Job 31:38-40). The nation of Israel frequently failed, and the prophets point to their unfruitful fields as evidence of their sins (Leviticus 26:32-35; Isaiah 24:4,5; Jeremiah 4:18-26; Hosea 4:1-3; Micah 6:9-15; Zechariah 7:14). Christian ecologists sometimes use these passages to show that Israel was being punished for their bad farming practices and their disrespect for the ecology. However, such particulars are hard to identify in these texts. Rather, I suggest they teach that God has designed an interrelationship between man and his habitat. God blesses obedience with natural productivity, but when the rains fall, the crops wither, the creatures disappear, and the land seems to reject its inhabitants, God is expressing His displeasure. This article is taken from a paper presented by Arden Thiessen to the EMC Ministerial, October 1990. In part 2 Dr. Thiessen will discuss the practice of earth-keeping. PAGE 3
Personal Concern Column . . Male Violence in the Home It is a fact that male violence exists in our homes. Male violence occurs because men use it to keep them in positions of power, thereby keeping women and children in positions of having no power. Male violence also occurs because the church and society in general do very little to stop it. We know that male violence is cyclical. Bas ically the cycle begins with a time of general peace and passivity. This part of the cycle gives way to tension building and verbal/emotional abuse. When this tension building stage reaches its peak the man uses his physical strength to punish or batter his partner in an attempt to make up for this feel ing of powerlessness. After the episode of bat tering there is a period of remorse and apology in an attempt to make things right. What is important to understand is that dur ing this “make things right” phase the church and its people are missing a glorious chance to break the cycle. In effect, we are condon ing violence by believing that a renewal of the relationship occurs when the man feels badly and confesses his wrong. A renewal of the relationship does not occur when the man sim ply confesses. This is an almost guaranteed start-up of the previous behaviour once again. When men resolve not to batter again, they are simply trying to establish their goodness as people. More than question whether the vio lence was wrong, they try to establish that they are good persons after all. This forgiveness-
taken-for-granted approach is not helpful for the woman or the man. The church has a “glorious” opportunity to say that battering is wrong every time it occurs. It is time to say we are angry at the violence and that it has no place in our world in any form. We must be held responsible for allowing violence to continue. As we attempt to understand and care for victims and aggressors of violence, I hear of care-givers in our communities condoning vio lence by counselling women to be reconciled to their husbands and to “be better partners.” Our churches are full of men (and women) to whom it has never occuned that woman bat tering is wrong. Until church members hear that violence against women is wrong we can expect it to continue to occur. The choice of the woman to reconcile should only occur when the man gets help for his violent be haviour and shows prolonged periods of change. On another level, we can address the way in which society and its structures promote violence toward women. Until the pervasiveService Opportunity for suitable person in MCC Manitoba Mediation Services as a Volunteer Coordinator/Program Administrator Duties: •Coordinate 50 volunteer mediators •Be responsible for their ongoing professional development • Be a business manager lor the Mediation office on 583 Ellice Avenue •Must be able to write funding proposals
The position is considered voluntary but it may be salaried according to MCC schedule. Apply to Peter H. Peters by October 30. 1991, at 134 Plaza Drive, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3T 5K9, Phone 261-6381.
COMING EVENTS October 18-20 “Aid to Christian Teaching (ACT) Weekend” Mennonite Collegiate Institute Gretna, Manitoba Phone: (204) 327-5891 October 26 Zone 4 Volleyball Tournament 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 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, Manitoba Phone: (204) 327-5891 November 7-8 Mennonite Studies Symposium "Mennonites and Modern Wars” University of Winnipeg Winnipeg, Man. Phone; (204) 786-9104
ness of male violence is undone in our socie ty, hurting will likely continue to happen in politics, sports, pornography, business, the church, and in the home. Until the voices that say NO to male violence are louder and more numerous than those that are silenced, we will have violence in the home. And silence in the face of violence is heard as “YES!” Russell Loewen Winnipeg, Man.
CO Conference and Reunion A CO conference commemorating the 50th anniversary of alternative service in Canada will be held in Winnipeg and Altona, Man., on November 9-10, 1991. The first day, Satur day, will feature lectures by Dr. William Janzen of Ottawa and Dr. Ted Regehr of Saskatoon, several shorter afternoon presen tations by Betty Goosen of Winkler, and others, as ell as an evening banquet at the Portage Avenue MB Church, with guest speaker Dr. David Schroeder of Winnipeg. The pro gram is sponsored by three agencies, the Mennonite Heritage Centre, the Centre for Menneonite Brethren Studies, both of Winni peg, and the Education Committee of the Manitoba Mennonite Historical Society. The second day, Sunday, will provide an af ternoon CO reunion in Altona, with an eve ning meal following the program. Lawrence Klippenstein will be one of the speakers. The conference will follow the Mennonite • Studies lectures on the topic Mennonites and Modern Wars to be held at the University of Winnipeg on November 7-8. More information may be obtained from the Centre for MB Studies in Winnipeg (1-204-669-6575) or the Mennonite Heritage Centre (Ph. 1-204888-6781, Ext. 243; or Fax 1-204-831-5675).
November 9 Mediation Services Workshop "When God’s People Quarrel” Bethel Mennonite Church Winnipeg, Man. Phone: (204) 774-2469 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
Contributors: Arden Thiessen, the pastor of the Steinbach E.M. Church, is the vice moderator of the E.M. Conference. ■ Dave Schellenberg, now retired, is the former editor of 77ie Messenger.
Cover; Photo courtesy of Manitoba Government Travel. Danny Olfert (Swift Current) was one of four young tree planters who died when their van plunged into a river in B.C. on June 11, 1990. We share his poem in memory of Danny and his friends, whose lives ended so suddenly.
THE MESSENGER is the publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. Its purpose is to inform, instruct, and inspire. Inform as to what is going on in the Conference; instruct in Godliness and victorious living; inspire to earnestly contend for the faith. All correspondence should be ad dressed to the Editor Menno Hamm, Box 1268, Steinbach, Manitoba, ROA 2A0. Letters, articles, art and poetry are welcomed. Views expressed in Let ters to the Editor are not necessarily those of the editor nor of the paper. Unpublished articles are not returned except by request. Subscription Members pay through their church. Non-members pay $6.00 per year. Send subscription money to The Messenger, Box 1268, Steinbach, Manitoba, ROA 2A0.
THE MESSENGER is published every other week by The Evangelical Mennonite Conference Board of Church Ministries, Box 1268, SteinROA 2A0. Second Class Mail; Registration Number 0591. Undelivered copies, change of address and new subscriptions should be mailed to the above address. The Messenger is a member of Meetinghouse.
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THE MESSENGER
Four New MCC Volunteers
E.M. Conference
Financial Update
October 9, 1991 Budget Receipts for January to September Receipts during January to September Shortfall
Sandi Brandt
Marcia Friesen
Sandi Brandt, most recently of Winni peg, Man., began a two-year Mennonite Cen tral Committee assignment in Winnipeg, where she will be serving as a receptionist with Pregnancy Distress Service. Brandt, original ly from Riverton, Man., began her assignment in May. She is a member of the St. Vital Evan gelical Mennonite Church. Marcia Friesen of Maryfield, Sask., be gan a two-year Mennonite (Central Commit tee assignment in Winnipeg, where she will be serving as receptionist at the MCC Canada headquarters. Friesen, who began her assign ment in June, is a member of the Kola, Man., Evangelical Mennonite Church.
Norbert and Judy Jacques of Winni peg, Man., began a two-year Mennonite Cen tral Committee assignment in Edmonton, Alta., where he will be serving as a carpentry foreman with MCC’s Employment Concerns program. Her position will be determined later. The Jacques, who began their assignment in August, are members of the Aberdeen Evan gelical Mennonite Church in Wininpeg. They have two children. Coral and Jean-Paul. Wordpower in Winnipeg
BANQUET
On October 1 we were not able to make all necessary disbursements due to the shortfall and to the depletion of the reserve/operating fund. In October to date we have received $48,665. This has made it possible to make the neces sary disbursements of October 1. For the past two years the constituency has given extra during the Thanks giving and Christmas seasons and made up the shortfall. We encourage you to do the same again this year.
Continue to pray and to respond concerning this urgent need. Together we can do it!
Don Moore Challenges EMC Ministerial “The church was intended for those who don’t belong,” said Don Moore to the EMC ministerial at their meeting in the Crestview church in Winnipeg on October 5. The church’s mandate from the Lord includes evangelism, bringing in those who are outside. The “come to” philosophy of the 50s and 60s, when large crowds of people responded to invitations to attend evangelistic meetings, no longer works today, he said. In the 90s we must use the “go to” approach, taking time to build individual relationships with people be fore we present them with the Gospel. Moore, the executive director of Vision 20(X) Canada, began his presentation by tell ing what is happening in evangelism in (Cana da. There is an increasing swell of denominations, parachurch organizations and other groups responding to the challenge of Vision 2(3(30 — a goal of ensuring that every person in Canada will have the opportunity to see, hear and respond to the Gospel by the year 2(300. This is not only a Canadian vision, the speaker said, but similar goals have been set in over 150 countries around the world. After a question period, Moore talked about critical issues facing local churches in evan gelism, and later about creating a vision for evangelism and church growth. He stressed the importance of prayer as the underlying core of growth. The period allotted to hearing from our churches was much too short. There was time for only a few examples of exciting things hap-
with speaker: Tom Sine author of “The Mustard Seed Conspiracy”
Friday, November 1, 1991 6:30 p.m. at MBBC Dining Hall Winnipeg, Man.
For reservations call (204) 669-6575 OCTOBER 11, 1991
$1,075,924 766,665 $309,259
Dave Thiessen (left) with speaker, Don Moore, during the question period at the EMC ministerial meeting.
pening in evangelism. It was unfortunate that the whole day was not devoted to the one theme. The last two hours were used to get feed back from the ministerial members on the pro posed statement of faith, which is the final section of the revision of the Constitution. Ben Eidse, chairman of the revision committee, ex plained the rationale for the proposed changes, and bravely defended his position. It became obvious that more work will need to be done, and more time devoted to develop an accept able statement.
VAN AVAILABLE 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
for use by Church Groups Capacity: 12 adults or up to 20 children Contact: Harv Brandt Bus.: (204) 326-2386 Home: (204) 326-6SS4
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Messenger News
The Ridgewood youth group embarking on Chicago Mission.
Prayer for a safe trip (Chicago Mission).
YOUTH IN MINISTRY Ridgewood, Man.: A year as an Intermenno trainee — It’s a year of going to Europe with about 30 other North Americans, from 18 to 27 years of age, to experience whatever comes your way and learning how to live in a strange culture and totally new surroundings. It’s a year of leaving all your friends and fam ily, everything familiar to you, to experience life anew, sharing with Christians overseas, comparing how your different surroundings have affected your Christian faith, seeing what areas you agree on, and areas where you dis agree and, hopefully, learning why. It’s a year of depending on God when all else fails, but still feeling a lot closer to God be cause of all this. It’s times of feeling very lonely and times of making many new friends and, hopefully, shar ing your faith; of helping those around you, as well as being helped by them. It’s knowing who God really is and how much He really cares in times of need, both for yourself and those in deep need all around you. It’s being called and following God’s will, reaching out where you can to those who will listen. It is not an easy year, but in the end it will always be worth it if you give it a try and go with the right intent and with God in your heart and on your mind. Frank Reimer July 19, the day our youth group was to leave for Chicago, started with pouring rain and blowing winds. It didn’t feel very cheerful but the rainstorm was soon over. Everyone met at the church, all very excited about what was going to happen in the next two weeks. We all got to know each other better on the trip to Chicago by being cooped up in one big van all day for two days. It was a lot of fun, seeing all sorts of new sights, especially in the big city of Chicago. Chicago was something none of us had experienced before, having lived in the country all our lives. The slums were really as bad as in the movies, and so
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was the smog! Everything seemed so big! The first week there we attended SEMP (SonLife Evangelism and Mission Project). At SEMP we took classes in the morning on apologetics and practical evangelism training. After lunch we went out to the streets, malls, beaches, airports, etc., to witness. This was pretty scary at first to a lot of us, but after awhile we got pretty used to it. One of these afternoons my partner and 1 had the joy of leading someone to the Lord. Meanwhile, back at Moody Bible Institute, people from each group stayed back to pray for those who went out, which was a great encouragement. It was a really exciting week and a lot of new friends were made from all over North America. Our second week in Chicago we went to work at an Inner City Impact Center, which was located in the worst five-block radius of Chicago. Outside everything looked scary, even the building we were staying in, but once inside we all felt safe and comfortable. Dur ing this week we worked at another Inner City Impact Center, remodelling it to fit the needs of that Center. In the evenings we even had a bit of time for sightseeing. We visited the John Hancock Tower, some fancy malls, a huge amusement park. Rock & Roll McDonalds, and we even got to see a White Sox game with an exciting ending! Saturday, August 3, at 5 a.m., it was time to say goodbye to Chicago. The ride home was a bit more stressful than the drive to Chicago. We planned to do the whole trip in one day. This was hard enough, having all spent enough time with each other living in such close quarters, never mind experiencing van trouble too. But we did arrive back at the church at 5 a.m., exactly 24 hours after we had started our journey. All in all, I think everyone had a great time. We all learned and experienced a lot. 1 don’t think any of us would have had such an awe some, meaningful summer had we stayed in Ridgewood. It was definitely something to remember. Melanie Plett
SUNNY COVE RETREAT Fort Frances, Ont.: Have you ever been to a retreat? The members and friends of our church planned a retreat weekend for Septem ber 6-8. We rented the lodge and cabins at Sunny Cove (located about five miles out of Fort Frances just off the highway). I believe 1 can speak for everyone when I say that a wonderful time was had by all, young and old alike. Some people arrived Fri day afternoon and got settled down in their cabins. Each family brought their own supper and everyone got to know each other. On Saturday morning all were awakened to the wonderful smell of bacon and pancakes and rushed to the main lodge where breakfast was served. Each family prepared and brought food for everyone for one meal during the whole weekend. This included cleaning up af ter and doing the dishes, dishes and more dishes. Everyone helped and the workload was much lighter; sharing and laughter could be heard in the kitchen. More families started to arrive and unpacking took place. It was sun ny in the morning and clouded over in the af ternoon, but the Lord did not let it rain. The youth group from the Baptist church in Emo dropped in and joined us in a game of volleyball. Much laughter and fun prevailed and, needless to say, there were a few sore muscles. Pastor Henry was one of the many who got into the game with enthusiasm. Sloppy Joes were served for lunch, along with juicy, crunchy apples. After lunch some people went for a peaceful boat ride on the lake and others chose to swim and sun them selves. Many games were played by the chil dren, with adults joining in - water balloon toss, wheelbanow race, three-legged race, and more. Supper time came and by this time more people had arrived, so about 70 people en joyed a wiener roast. After supper the children enjoyed toasting marshmallows over the fire. At 8:30 p.m. everyone sat around in the lodge and sang hymns, accompanied by Ma rina Gerber on the accordion, Rachel Leh mann on the keyboard, and Karla Ans, Ken Brandrick and Ike Friesen on guitars. Our THE MESSENGER
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Pastor Henry Kornelsen’s birthday.
spirits were uplifted by the lovely hymns and voices. By then some people were getting sleepy and went off to bed, but a few hardy souls built a campfire near the beach and stayed up till the wee hours of the morning, sharing and singing some more. On Sunday morning the sky was overcast and it rained lightly much of the day. However, our spirits could not be dampened by the weather. Everyone ate a hearty breakfast of hashbrowns, bacon and French toast - yum, yum! Pastor Henry gave the message at the church service held in the main lodge. More singing and praying took place and everyone was invited to share their thoughts on the weekend. I understand that two children ac-
Taking time out to start the day off right - worship through songs and devotional.
FAMILY CAMP A SUCCESS Grande Prairie, Alta.:What a busy and enjoyable summer it’s been for Grande Prairie! Father’s Day found us digging into stacks of watermelon and “rollkuchen,” after which numerous rounds of volleybcill and soccer and fellowship finished the day. We recently held elections, from which var ious boards and committees were formed. These individuals, along with the continued faithful commitment of all our church families, will work even harder towards creating a more effective outreach and warm worship at mosphere in the Grande Prairie area. The first annual family camp was a warm, resounding success! It was a weekend of bond ing, fellowship, great food, games and sports for children and adults alike. Handy access to water hoses, children’s pools and water bal loons brought refreshing, and sometimes un expected, relief from the hot sunny weather. Saturday was wrapped up in gales of laugh ter, with the performance of humorous skits,
OCTOBER 11, 1991
Relaxing at the beach.
cepted the Lord as their Lord and Saviour dur ing the events of the weekend. Praise the Lord for directing these children and preparing their hearts to acept God’s plan of salvation! Dur ing the day a few of the men played a game of horseshoes and the children played on the swings in the playground. Crafts were provided for the children and they were kept busy making pictures of their hands; these were put into a booklet to give to Pastor Henry for his birthday. Lunch was served to about 75 people. A delicious vegetable soup was served, along with buns and veggies, and tarts for dessert. Pastor Henry was taken by surprise when everyone sang “Happy Birthday” to him and
sparkling candles glowed on two birthday cakes. Some of the crowd left in the afternoon and those who were left played board games or had a snooze. Cold cuts and salads were enjoyed by all for supper, along with more cake and dainties. It was delicious, and I am sure some people went home with a few more pounds on them. After supper people slowly left for home and many goodbyes were said. 1 think everyone left with a warm glow, filled with many happy memories. Thank you. Lord, for giving us this time together. May everyone return again next year. “And all thy children shall be taught of the Lord, and great shall be the peace of thy chil dren” (Isaiah 54:13). Euelyn Hicks
“Hop, hop like a bunny, ’’ just one of many creative activities for the children.
commercials and mock newscasts in the Var iety Nite Special. The weekend ended with an inspiring worship service Sunday morning, fol lowed by another delicious meal. With the arrival of fall, the church moves on to events no less exciting and interesting. Bible studies are getting under way once again
and the many new faces in church Sunday mornings are a welcome, encouraging sight. We look forward to a winter of continued spiritual and numerical growth and praise God for the many blessings He bestows daily on the Swan City Christian Fellowship family. Betty Brandt
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Adults must play too! Careful, girls, don’t drop those eggs!
These little tykes had the best idea - tak ing a cool, refreshing dip. PAGE 7
DARE TO BE A DANIEL Calgary, Alta.: “Dare to be a Daniel, dare to stand alone. Dare to have a purpose firm! Dare to make it known!” These words in a recent message by Pastor Charles got me thinking about how mem bers of our church family were daring to make a statement with their lives. The first group of people who came to my mind were four cou ples who dedicated themselves to raising their children according to God’s will as revealed in the Bible. In a society that says there are no absolutes, it’s daring for these couples to say that God’s Word is the absolute truth needed to guide them in their lives.
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Parent/child dedication at the Calgary church. Left to right: Ray and Becky Friesen with Katelynn, Rod and Tina Reimer with Tiffany, Rob and Eleanor Reimer with Megan. Aland Lydia Zentner with David. Pastor Charles Koop.
Then my thoughts moved to four young women who dared to get involved in summer service. In our drive for material things, it’s dar ing to volunteer our services without pay. Each of these women, however, felt that she had gained by what she had dared to do. This is what they shared . . . Twplla, “Experiencing the life of a missionary in my own country proved to be an exciting summer for me. I spent this past summer in Mission, B.C., with InterAct Ministries, sharing the gospel with our East Indian friends. I worked alongside a full-time missionary lady, and together we taught six weeks of Good News Clubs. We also did a fair bit of visiting with various East Indian families. By learning to enjoy their food, hearing their language and learning about their customs and religion, I grew to love them for who they are. Through Twyla, daughter of this cross-cultural summer ministry I have Les and Marion Plett, learned to love and minister more effectively graduate of Nipawin Bible Institute to my neighbors of another race.” Wendy, “As 1 boarded the jet for Europe I was filled with many mixed emotions. 1 was excited and filled with anticipation of what my summer in Sweden would hold. Yet I was also a little apprehensive because I wasn’t sure what to expect culturally and 1 dreaded the loneliness that 1 expected. The culture didn’t take much adapting to. I met many mission aries who were friendly, open and encourag Wendy, daughter of ing. I now further understand their situation Henry and Susan Dueck, firsl-year stu and experience, which in turn deepens my dent at SBC respect for them. As for loneliness . . . God really pulled me through. Although I really missed my friends and family, I always felt content and at peace with what 1 was doing and where 1 was. I’ve also had to deepen my trust in God and believe that He will provide a job upon my return home.” Melodp, “This summer I worked at Gimli Bi ble Camp. It was great to be back in sunny Melody, daughter of Manitoba and get to know some new people. Les and Marion Plett, It was also great watching how God works in grade 12 graduate
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various lives. I had the opportunity of leading five girls to Christ.” Carlita, “This summer I went to Camp Silversides for five weeks. It was a really good ex perience. The first week I was a dishwasher. That week I learned to work hard and to do the jobs that no one wants to do, like the washrooms. But I would have done it again because without dishwashers the camp couldn’t run. The next four weeks I was a junior counsellor. I had 28 girls Carlita, daughter of in my cabin over the Dennis and Irene summer. Eight of them Plett, grade 12 made first-time decigraduate sions for Christ. I learned a lot about patience and love when the kids started getting on my nerves. I also learned to relate to other staff.” Adults also dared to take a stand. Barb Wiebe recently moved to Calgary to work for Venture Teams International. While there, she was asked by RBMU to consider going to Irian Jaya for a Barb Wiebe one-year term to do office work for a mission ary going on furlough. It was daring to leave a very stable position and a new church family to travel to a strange country.
Peter and Susan Thiessen with their children, Cynthia, Terilee and Shawn.
Peter and Susan Thiessen had often considered some sort of Christi an service. This summer they were encouraged to accept a position with MCC in Harlan, Kentucky. Peter will be involved in helping the Ap palachian people to upgrade their existing homes, while Susan will help part-time in the office. Those of us who know them saw firsthand how daring it was to rent out their home, figure out how to store more of their belongings for two years, and get themselves down to Kentucky, all within a few weeks!
Galen Plett (center), with Pastor Charles Koop (left) and Rod Reimer (youth leader, minister-in-trainIng).
Lastly, when a person gets baptized, he is daring to make his purpose firm and daring to make it known. Galen Plett, son of Dennis and Irene Plett, shared this testimony at his recent baptism. “1 grew up going to church, clubs, youth group and going to a Christian junior high school. Now that 1 am going to a public high school, 1 have many non-Christian friends and I’ve had to take my Christian life more seriously. The Bible tells of many who have dared to stand for Christ and 1 know 1 can do this with God’s help. I want to fully commit my life to His way.” What an inspiration these people are to us! Will you dare to be a Daniel today? Lorraine Koop
THE MESSENGER
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Sioux Valley. Man.: (Clockwise from upper left) 1. Sioux Valley VBS, August 5-9. When there are more than 100 active children, it's hard to line them all up for a picture. 1/IZe praise the Lord for every helper and child who was there. It was a very busy week. 2. Doug Reader, Shantyman missionary, came with the large Hilbre Bible Camp bus, to pick up the boys and girls from Sioux Valley. Camp work is not without problems. Hilbre Bible Camp reaches children from many reserves for the Lord Jesus Christ. 3. The cooks at Hilbre Bible Camp, July 22-27. Left to right: Hazel Bell (Sioux Valley), Helen Martens (Kola), Vera Sinclair (Kola), Eire Jackson (Hilbre).
ABRAM FRIESEN PENNER 1905 - 1991 “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christi By his great mercy we have been born anew to a living hope through the resur rection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and to an inheritance which is imperishable, undefiled and unfading, kept in heaven for you” (I Peter 1:5,4). Another pilgrimage has successfully ended. The desired homeland has been entered. Our father, Abram Friesen Penner, was born in Sunny Slope, Alberta, September 7, 1905, and died Sunday, September 15, at the age of 86 years and eight days. His death oc curred at the Health Science Centre, Winni peg, Man., where he was recovering from surgery on his aorta, because of an aneurism. The reported immediate cause of death was “cardiac arrest.” Our dad was the second child of Peter Mar tin and Mary (nee Friesen) Penner. The par ents to our father had proved their homestead in Alberta, and approximately a year after our father’s birth, they, with their two children, moved back to Manitoba. They made their home in a farming area which for years was known as Prairie Rose, and more recently, Landmcirk. In early manhood, our father came to a clear understanding of his spiritual need. How long he wrestled with this need we do not know. But that he came to a fixed, personal faith in OCTOBER 11, 1991
Jesus Christ during that time because appar ent to all who knew him. On the basis of this faith, he asked for and received believer’s bap tism. This occurred on May 26, 1926, and was performed by Elder Peter P. Reimer. In this act he also submitted himself to the larg er brotherhood in becoming a member of the Kleine Gemeinde, now the Evangelical Mennonite Church. He remained a faithful and active member of this congregation for the rest of his earthly life. Our dad found a caring and dedicted help mate in our natural mother, Mary, the daugh ter of the local pastor. Minister H.R. and Mrs. Reimer. Our mother and father were married on October 28.1927. They shared their mar ried companionship and faith for over fifty yecirs. Although our mother had struggled with cancer for a number of years, both parents were delighted to be able, by the grace of our heavenly Father, to celebrate their Golden Wedding, in 1977. However, this beautiful companionship was not to last long after this. Mother died December 17, 1978. To this union were born, Herbert, Mildred, Edgar, Wilmer, Leslie, Ronald, and Dennis. Although anticipated for some time, the death of his spouse, Mary, was a time of test ing and reorientation. However, instead of floundering spiritually. Father grew in his com mitment and passion for the Lord’s work. Some time later he found a new companion ship in the widow, Mrs. Pauline (nee Friesen) Reimer, of Kola, Manitoba. They were mar ried on Februciry 16, 1980. This new and suc cessful relationship, although not without times of difficulty because of Pauline’s illness, ended with her death on October 11, 1989. Our father early became a hard and willing worker, as well as an enterprising youth and young man. His life showed vitality and en thusiasm, as well as concern and faith. He seemed to have energy without measure. His skills were numerous. He seemed to enjoy all the enterprises he attempted. Problems were
to be overcome, not evaded. He was a farmer all his life. For more than two decades he was also a lumberman and sawyer. He served on the Manitoba Broiler Marketing Board. He made his mark on Western Gospel Mission, both as a director and an active participant in the activity of the mission. At least twice he went to Paraguay as a board member and participant in phases of directing the work of the Paraguay mission on the field. Steinbach Bible College, too, was one of his concerns as director and actual par ticipant in the moving of the campus and the initial building of the school at its present lo cation. When Red Rock Lake Bible Camp was built, he, in company with his brothers, was at the forefront in making it possible. However, we are rather sure that our dad hardly would have wanted us to say all this. And yet, we are sharing these things as a wit ness to the grace of God and an encourage ment to other children of God. Our father’s commitment to his loving Lord, his consum ing desire to do His will, his concern for the salvation of people, especially his own chil dren, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and his steadfast and controlling desire to be the best husband, father and grandparent, despite his confessed failures, eclipsed all else in his life. There are thoughts, expressed by our dad particularly during his time in the hospital, which we will not forget. He clearly gave us to understand that, while willing to remain, he was also ready to leavae. He desired to meet his Lord. He said, “No one will ever know how much I love my family.” We, as family, sorrow and rejoice at the same time. We rejoice, because after a life of comparatively good health, and an effective witness and service as a Christian, our father is now delighting in his desired life with his Lord and those who have preceded him into the glories which God had prepared for him. PAGE 9
We sorrow, because in this life we shall see him no more. We will not feel his smile or hear his word of encouragement and admonition. We will miss him, a father indeed, one who loved us and whom we loved. We, the family, mourn the too early pass ing of Dad, even though he was 86 years old, but we do so with joy and hope. Left to mourn are Herbert and Martha Penner (Calgary, Alberta), Mildred and Ralph Reimer (Land mark), Edgar and Ellen Penner (Kola), Wilmer
Births MARTINDILL - to Peter and Sharia Martindill of Portage la Prairie, Man., a daughter, Ashley Beth, on August 9, 1991. DYCK - to Gordon and Marllyles Dyck of Steinbach, Man., a son, Jeremy Bryan, on September 15,1991. HIEBERT - to Danny and Linda Hiebert of Stein bach, Man., a son, Myles Brendan, on September 20, 1991. PLETT - to Don and Rose Plett of Steinbach, Man., a son. Byran Scott, on August 24, 1991. GOERTZEN - to Robert and Monica Goertzen of Steinbach, Man., a son, Markus Aron, on Septem ber 8, 1991. ANDERSON ■ to Grant and Luella Anderson of Calgary, Alta., a son. Grant John Lyle, on July 25, 1991. DYCK - to David and Mary Dyck of Aylmer, Ont., a daughter, Andrea Kaitlin, on August 5, 1991. LOEWEN - to Rick and Tina Loewen of Port Bur well, Ont., a son, Thomas James, on September 17, 1991.
JACOB WIEBE 1971-1991 "The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; May the Name of the Lord be praised” (Job 1:21). Jacob was the firstborn son of Abram and Margaret Wiebe, born on May 29, 1971, in Mexico. Jake spent the early part of his life in Mexico and moved to Canada with his par ents in 1987. In his early youth he realized his sinfulness and received Jesus Christ as his per sonal Saviour. He was baptized upon his profession of faith on May 15, 1988, in the Mount Salem E.M. Church. At the time of his baptism he wrote, “1 became convinced that it would be better if 1 could accept the Lord in my youth. 1 have accepted Him, and He has forgiven my sins.” Jake had many struggles in his Christian life but read his Bible regulcir-
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and Sheila Penner (Steinbach), Leslie Penner (Kola), Ronald and Ruth Penner (Newport News, Virginia), and Dennis and Agnes Pen ner (Toronto), ctnd their families, 28 grandchil dren and 22 great-grandchildren. Also left to mourn their stepfather, the fa mily of our dad’s second wife, are Vernon and Helen Reimer (Clearbrook, B.C.), Norma and Abe Martens (Kola), Helen and Jake Martens (Kola), Katherine and Peter Klassen (Denver, Colorado), and their families.
VAN BERGEN ■ to Floyd and Christine Van Ber gen of Sexsmith, Alta., a son, Jesse Mitchell, on September 10, 1991. PENNER - to Roland and Connie Penner of Stein bach, Man., a son, Casey Daniel, on August 29, 1991. THIESSEN - to Wes and Helen Thiessen of Hadashville, Man., a son, Eric Rodney, on Septem ber 17, 1991. PLETT - to Royden and Karen Plett of Steinbach, Man., a son, Karsten Blayne, on September 17, 1991. PETERS - to Jake and Elaine Peters of Stephen field, Man., a son, Matthew Carl, on August 22, 1991. KLASSEN - to Wes and Brenda Klassen of Roseisle, Man., a son, Lucas Allan, on September 9, 1991. DYCK - to Barry and Ruthanne Dyck of Winnipeg, Man., a son, Aaron Cory, on September 11, 1991. Correction: SIEMENS - to Jeff and Tammy Siemens of Winnipeg, Man., a daughter, Jillian Diedra, on June 12, 1991.
ly. We believe that he is now in the presence of His Lord and Saviour. He passed away on Saturday, August 31, at about 4:30 p.m., after being hit by a car while riding his bicycle in front of his parents’ home. He never regained consciousness after the accident; he passed away three hours later in a London hospital. Jake was an active and helpful son in the family. He loved to have things neat and clean. He was a willing worker and was always ready to help his father in making the necessary repairs on the vehicles. He was employed in building construction, which he enjoyed. He will be sadly missed by his many friends and his family. He is survived by his saddened family, Abe and Margaret Wiebe; two sisters, Nettie and Aggie; and four brothers, Dave, Frank, Benny and Johnny. He is also survived by his grandparents, David and Elizabeth Wiebe and Mrs. Anne (Jacob) Wiebe, all in Mexico; as well as by his special friend, Lisa Fehr; and many uncles, aunts and cousins. The marker in his Bible rested at the book of Jude. “To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy - to the only God our Saviour be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen” (Jude 24,25). The sorrowing family
Two brothers, Walter (Landmark), and Archie (Steinbach), and two sisters. Ruby Plett and husband Archie (Landmark) and Hazel Satey (Edmonton), and one aunt, Esther (nee Friesen) Schmidt, also survive our dad. Preceding Father in death were his daughterin-law Beverly (nee Letkeman) Penner, the late spouse of son Lesie; two brothers and two sis ters, David, Norman, Carolyn Reimer and Tina Reimer; one grandson, Trevor, son of Ronald and Ruth, and one great-grandson, Lucas, son of Kim and Bruce Penner. The family is very grateful for the support and comfort given to Dad, particularly by the church and community in these last years. God bless you all! The Family
Weddings MARTENS ■ LOEWEN: Abe Martens of Kleefeld, Man., and Eleanor Loewen of Rosenort, Man., were married at the Pleasant Valley E.M. Church on April 13, 1991. Ed Wiebe of Grunthal, Man., officiated. The couple is making their home in Kleefeld. HEINRICHS - PETERS: Dennis, son of Ed and Nora Heinrichs of Carman, Man., was married on August 24, 1991, to Jan, daughter of Walter and Mary Peters of Winkler, Man. The wedding took place at the Winkler EMMC, with Dave Thiessen of Winnipeg, Man., officiating. LIVINGSTONE - JOHNSON: Frederick, son of Frederick and Oriole Livingstone of Norquay, Sask., and Thelma, daughter of Arthur and Viola John son of Pelly, Sask., were unmarried at the Norquay Covenant Church on August 31, 1991. Dr. W.B. Anderson of Prince Albert, Sask., officiated. The couple is residing in Calgary, Alta. HILDEBRAND - KORNELSEN: Walter, son of Mrs. Helen Hildebrand of Winkler, Man., was married on July 20, 1991, to Audra, daughter of Lome and Doris Kornelsen of Rosenort, Man. Frank Kroeker of Paraguay officiated. The couple is making their home in Winnipeg, Man. KROEKER FRIESEN: Greg, son of Frank and Marge Kroeker of Paraguay, and Lynette, daugh ter of Peter and Esther Friesen of Arnaud, Man., were married on August 10, 1991. The wedding took place at the E.M. Church in Rosenort, Man., with Frank Kroeker, father of the groom, officiat ing. The couple is making their home in Rosenort. FIELDS - FRIESEN: Wayne, son of Mrs. Hazel Fields of Saskatoon, Sask., was married on Sep tember 7,1991, to Diana, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Peter L. Friesen of Rosenort, Man. The wedding took place at the Winnipeg Evangelical Free Church, with Al Gordon of Winnipeg officiating. The cou ple is residing in Winnipeg. CYR • SCHROEDER: Franc, son of Wilfred and Freda Cyr of La Broquerie, Man., and Maries, daughter of David and Frieda Schroeder of Kleefeld, Man., were married at the Kleefeld E.M. Church on August 31, 1991. Greg Dermody of Elrose, Sask., officiated. The couple is making their home in Steinbach. ENNS - NEUFELD: George Enns and Sandra Neu feld were married on July 20, 1991. The wedding took place at the Steinbach E.M. Church, with Mel Koop of Steinbach, Man., officiating. The couple is making their home in Winnipeg.
THE MESSENGER
SMOKER ■ O’RILEY; Richard Smoker and Sonia O’Riley were married on August 31, 1991, at the Salem Mennonite Church in Tofield, Alta., with Rev. Smoker officiating. The couple is making their home in Calgary, Alta. TOEWS - SEMPLE: Jonathan, son of John and Tina Toews of Bums Lake, B.C., was married on August 3,1991, to Liana, daughter of Gordon and Alice Semple of Victoria, B.C. The wedding took place in Victoria, with John Toews of Bums Lake officiating. The couple is residing in McKenzie, B.C. GIRARD - WOLF: Paul Girard and Nettie, daugh ter of Elizabeth Wolf of Calgary, Alta., were mar ried on June 5, 1991. The couple is making their home in Calgary. WUDRICH - DYCK: Roger, son of Mr. and Mrs. Louie Wudrich of Calgary, Alta., was married to Carolyn, daughter of Bruce and Elma Dyck of Cal gary. The wedding took place on July 27,1991, at the Abbeydale Christian Fellowship in Calgary, with Charles Koop of Calgary officiating. The couple is making their home in Calgary. HAMM - KLASSEN: David, son of David and Tina Hamm, and Lisa, dau^ter of Abe and Justina Klas sen, all of Aylmer, Ont., were married on Septem ber 8, 1991. Wilbert Friesen of Aylmer officiated. The couple is residing in Aylmer. BECKER - PLETT; Ryan Becker of Winnipeg was married on August 17, 1991, to Patti, daughter of Willie and Mary Plett of Steinbach, Man. The wed ding took place in Winnipeg. The couple is making their home in Winnipeg. REMPEL - FRIESEN: Peter, son of Jake and Anne Rempel of Steinbach, Man., was married on August 24,1991, to Lyla Friesen. The wedding took place at the EMB Church in Steinbach with Arden Thiessen of Steinbach officiating. The couple is residing in Vancouver, B.C. KOOP - KOOP: Peter S. Koop and Elizabeth Koop were married at the Kleefeld E.M. Church on July 20, 1991, with John Koop of Kleefeld officiating. The couple is making their home in Steinbach.
WIEBE - HARMS: Andrew Wiebe of Grunthal, Man., was married on August 10,1991, to Shauna, daughter of Dan and Helen Harms of Prince George, B.C. The wedding took place at the E.M. Church in Kleefeld, Man., with Abe Bergen of Kleefeld officiating. The couple is residing in Grunthal.
WHEN GOD’S PEOPLE OUARREL
Conflict in the Church Location: Bethel Mennonite Church 870 Carter Avenue (off Stafford) Date: November 9, 1991 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Cost; $20.00lperson (lunch included) Sponsored by: Mediation Services (Program of Mennonite Central Committee, Manitoba) in conjunction with Menno Simons College and The Community Dispute Centre Facilitators: Ruth Boehm - Assistant Pastor, Bethel Mennonite David Falk - Community Dispute Centre Janet P. Schmidt - Mediation Services Bernie Wiebe - Menno Simons College Contact: Mediation Services 774-2469 Ask for Colleen or Janet
OCTOBER 11, 1991
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BY the WAY
By Dave Schellenberg •
SEPTEMBER 21 WAS THE DAY of the now quite renowned MCC Relief Sale at the Morris Stampede Grounds. Al and Arlene had never visited this event so this year they wanted to go and see what was going on. In fact, they took their car and gave us a ride. Going to Morris, some 40 miles from Steinbach, we went through St. Pierre and Dufrost on a nicely paved highway. But it was not always so. There is a stretch of road past Dufrost that I shall not soon forget. That was long before the road was paved. I was employed at C.T. Loewen, the firm I mentioned in my September “By the Way” article. I was a truck driver and delivered building materials in the country. It wasn’t often that I made a trip this far out. As I recall, I was going to “Jandtzeed” with a load of building material. It so happened that the road was muddy and I ran into complications with the truck, and it was getting towards evening. I forget what time I finally made it to this farmer. As I recall, I spent the rest of the night in his bam. In the morning I went to the house and I guess I announced my self. I think I even got breakfast. But as I stat ed before, seldom do I travel this stretch of highway that I don’t recall that night long ago. But here I am reminiscing again. So let’s go back to the MCC sale in Morris. It was a nice sunny day. The size of the crowd again met our expectations. For lunch we side-stepped the long lineups at the restaurants and opted for barbecued chick en at the fast food outlet. We were not dis appointed. Like many others, we did not stick to the auction itself, but wandered around the grounds among the many other attractions: meat sales, potato sales and the huge indoor building with baked goods, crafts, books, and what have you. For me it was a few hours well spent. I enjoyed the unhurried pace, meeting friends and acquaintances. Proceeds, as we heard the next day, exceeded the $100,000 mark. One can imagine that all those hard-working volunteers must have been more than pleased by the grand total. But best of all is the good this money will accomplish in a needy world. Keep up the good work.
THE WEEK WAS going to be a particular ly busy one. Seldom do we have so many things demanding our time. Tuesday was the “Volunteers” banquet at the Mennonite Heritage Village. This is a gift of gratitude to volunteer workers at the Museum the past summer. On Wednesday was our first Home Bible Study for this sea-
son, and it was to be at our house. Thurs day was an appointment with a son-in-law. But Friday it really accelerated: a game of golf with a son and grandsons, an assign ment at the Prairie Rose Golden Age gather ing and a banquet at Providence College at Otterbume (formerly WBC). And to top off the week was a golden wedding which we had been looking forward to for some time. It would be busy but I thought it could work. All was well until the flu made its unwelcome appearance. I made it to the supper at the Museum but then appointments had to be cancelled one after another, much to my regret. But, as we all know, the flu doesn’t come to stay, but it seems so long. Our bodies are wonderfully created to combat disease. And medications, I suppose, make it more beara ble. Fortunately, by the time Saturday rolled around, things were going so well that we could attend that golden wedding at the Dutch Connection restaurant in Steinbach. But it only goes to show how fragile we are. So far my wife and I have scorned flu shots, but this year I think we will be candidates.
THE COOL AIR, the falling leaves, birds congregating and, of course, geese bound for warmer climes, all herald the coming of winter. And so today, October 8, the marigolds that were so carefully planted and watched in spring, are ruthlessly pulled up and consigned to the compost heap; like wise, the dusty miller. But would you believe it, fall is also a time for planting. Have you noticed the fall bulbs appearing in stores? And who can resist those beautiful pictures of many-colored tulips on the box covers? I succumbed again. The ones I planted last fall had done so well this spring. We are, of course, running out of space to plant things on our small property. Well, to counteract that I dug up a small patch of front lawn (I guess I’m getting desperate!). I dug out the poor dirt and put in some new soil, and planted (rather transplanted) three shrub rose bushes (Adelaide Hoodless). I have found that shrub roses make it through the winter very well, and continue blooming year after year. I had dug the patch in the form of a triangle, two sides of which I planted with tulips. Since that newly dug patch on our lawn is close to the sidewalk, some passersby next spring may admire our tulips; that is, if they come through the winter well. Till next time.
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From the Editor Where There is No Vision WHEN WE LIVED in northern Alberta we learned to anticipate the chinooks that passed through the area several times each winter. Sometimes a bow of clouds, called a chinook arch, heralded the approach of mild weather. At other times we were alerted by the sound of a wind blowing a hundred or so feet above the ground. In a few hours it would descend, causing the temperature to rise rapidly and the snow to melt. The chinooks were al ways a pleasant relief from a spell of cold weather. Perhaps in a similar way, we can also sense the begin ning of a surge of spiritual refreshing in our country. We desperately need a renewal from the Lord. A recent report from Vision 2(300 Canada pointed out some signifi cant changes in the number of believers from 1900 to 1990: Region 1900 1990 Africa 3% 40% Korea 0% 30% Soviet Union 7% 36% Canada 22% 8%
While the percentage of believers in a number of regions has increased remarkably, the percentage in Canada has declined. That is not good news. Is it pos sible to reverse the trend in Canada? How can the tide of secularism and complacency be turned around? It may not be accomplished through the major crusades or television blitzes. God may prefer to work through in dividuals on a small scale, winning people to Himself one by one. Here and there we may also witness results on a larger scale. We need a new vision from God, because the Scripture says, “Where there is no vision, the people perish” (Proverbs 29:18). The question is not why doesn’t somebody do something, but what can I do, what am I doing? We have seen some encouraging signs recently. Perhaps a new spiritual chinook on its way. We felt a touch of it at Abundant Springs ’91 in May. Dave Currie challenged the young people to “talk about Jesus.” Many of them responded, determining to make their lives count for the Lord. Their resolve was reinforced through other influences, such as Rick Cua’s song, “I Can, I Will!” Reports from various places confirm that many of these commitments are real. A strong sense of spiritual warmth and encouragement aroused us at our Annual Convention, through the will ingness of nine recent Christians to share their faith sto ries with us. Almost all of their conversions resulted from a growing friendship with one or two caring Christians who were supported with much prayer. Many of us caught a new vision. What other ordinary folks had done, we could try too. With his messages, Dave Thiessen PAGE 12
helped us to focus that vision. Those of us who attended the Region 4 Conference in August sensed another dimension of the vision. Chris tians responded to the Lord’s challenge to take their vi sion and make it happen. Since this involves an invasion into tenitory that Satan has claimed, it brings us into spiritual warfare. Clothed in the armor of God, we can move forward to claim lives for Christ. In the presentations by Don Moore of Vision 2000 Canada at the Ministerial meeting last weekend, we sensed the moving of the Spirit again. He shared many things that were happening across our country in evan gelism and encouraged ministerial members to develop a vision for their communities. He listed seven activities and questions to raise in order to shape a vision for evan gelism: 1. Focus on prayer - What is the quality of our prayer life? 2. Studying God’s Word - What is our biblical under standing and vision for evangelism? 3. Reflecting on our past - What is our current aware ness of what has been and is being accomplished? 4. Dreaming for our future - What are our greatest dreams towards which we can each contribute? 5. Defining of priorities - What priorities emerge from our faith-stretching vision for ministry? 6. Developing our plans - What are the means, resources and plans necessary to accomplish our pri orities? 7. Acknowledging our progress - In what ways can we acknowledge effective models and progress made towards our vision being fulfilled? Getting close to the Lord through prayer and the Word is obviously very important. We can then hear His voice more clearly and He can lead us more effectively. In the short time allowed for hearing from the churches at the meeting, it was exciting to hear some examples of the vision being put into action. One man, working with Alcoholics Anonymous, has been instrumental in bringing several men into his church. In another church an elective Sunday school class is designing a strategy for evan gelism. Another man, with a heart for refugees, recently had over 50 attend a backyard barbecue. There is now an ethnic Sunday school class in his church. In another church the college and career group has been paired off with the young people. The partners are spending a short time together each month. The stories go on. We trust that what we are seeing is only the beginning of revival in our homes, communities and nation. Let the vision spread across our great Dominion. Menno Hamm
THE MESSENGER