The Messenger EVANGELICAL EVANGELICAL MENNONITE MENNONITE CONFERENCE CONFERENCE
VOL. VOL. 30 30 NO. NO. 22
V^JAN. JAN. 24/92 24/92
PROPERTY PURCHASED IN PARAGUAY At their annual meeting in December the EMC Missions Auxiliary approved the purchase of the property pictured above in Caaguazu, East Paraguay. The main build ing is a two-story structure, 10 m x 10 m. In the rear there are four rooms attached to the building. These were formerly used as hotel rooms.
The lot, which is bordered by a fence, also has a building 7 m x 5 m on it. This will be used for a school classroom for missionary children. The upper story of the main building will be a residence for missionaries, while the lower level will house the bookstore and a reading/counselling room. Radio program production will be done in the smaller back rooms. There will also be a room or two for guests. A down payment has been made, and papers for the transfer are presently be ing drawn up and signed. While this is a project of the Missions Auxiliary, dona tions to help with the purchase of this desirable property are welcome.
^hey are what and who they are due to forces Z beyond their own control or comprehension. They are kids just like yours or mine were, or are, or will be. They also came into this world kicking and screaming, more or less. One thing we all have in common with them is our Adamic nature and physical prowess and in tellectual possibilities. Although born in sin, they are also candidates for heaven. Their entrance into our human social system riddled with problems was complicated many times over by a very localized situation: Either they were born to a mother who was left to carry her “burden” of pregnancy alone or where alco hol and drugs were prevalent. All too often they were ushered into an uncaring climate with out any welcome sign. They learned to hate early. Their little world usually began in hostile surroundings. They hurt and healed alone - but scars remained, ugly but invisible to the human eye. As their inner drives de veloped they surely and prematurely moved into an atti tude and atmosphere of “the survival of the fittest” and “I’ll respect those who respect me, maybe” but no body did. They declared war on society. They began to manipulate their own and others’ bod ies to satisfy their quest for life and love. They reached out and took that which appealed to their senses and used that which was available and did that which was possible. As rejections continued, their rebellions mounted.
times and continuing love and the freedoms to be en joyed. Everyone said their prayers. The officers made their rounds, did their duties and retrieved the vagrants. They locked up the lawless and hoped their day would soon end. As they settled down in their easy chairs they still remembered and wondered and felt and shuddered. It could have been them or theirs. The judges listened to their cases, checked their gigan tic legal files, and weighed the transgressions of the derelicts in the scales of justice and passed their sen tences. The court recorder got it all down right and had it signed, sealed and delivered. They all closed their books and doors, shucked their robes and rode home in their Cadillacs. They ate - and tried to sleep. The Boards convened. The greatest minds sought answers for the derelicts but found none. Their awesome educational monster with its humanistic bent had failed again. The ponderous and overworked legal and judicial system had done what they could and a little less. The liberalized social system had become a nightmare of failure. The professionalized ecclesiastical system tried to keep itself going. Smart suggestions brought only smarter answers and argu ments. The derelicts continued to increase even from those who manned the administrative posts in an other wise prosperous land.
by C.B. Loewen
^ociety tried to contain them with the restraints of the law. Their deeds were computerized and they were stigmatized with condemnation. They lost what lit tle dignity and sensitivity they had retained and became liars and legal burdens. They were rejected by their own families since most atrocities are comitted closest to where we live. Parental restraints, if there were those, became challenges for defiance. Some were adopted into homes for a price and little more. Before puberty they had lost their sense of se curity by being shifted from place to place and gradual ly they became wards of the State and were shuffled into “families” of people just like them. Releases to freedom often were cut short due to quick dabs into delinquency. Society did not want them, nor need them. They knew it and scarcely cared at all. They learned that use was abuse but before teen trou bles were due they were already selling sex and practic ing adult immorality. Girls who should still be at home playing with dolls or learning to cook and to knit and to clean were walking the streets of the city looking for quick financial gain. They hurt but pain almost became pleasure.
^^eople all dressed up in their Sunday best went to church, shrugging their shoulders at the derelicts sleeping in the alleys with the cats and eating what was discarded by others. The choirs raised their voices melodiously and piously in the cathedrals, expecting an “amen” and “praise the Lord” from the smug congre gations. The preachers expounded the immeasurable treasures of the Scriptures with the promises of good PAGE 2
^wo thousand years ago there had been no room in f the inn. But there was One Who saw and knew and understood and cared. He had been left out. The only One Who could really make the difference was sup posed to exist only as a figment in the minds and hearts of religious fanatics. He still ruled the universe and counted the stars and sent the sunshine and the rain. Man had become his own god and wanted no competi tion or interference from Someone Who was invisible and impartial and infinitely wise. If there was such a One, He was shunted into a place where He belonged, or so they thought. Since man would not recognize his God, he did not recognize or respect the only laws that really were uniquely adapted for the maintenance of sanity in society. With the rejection of these laws there followed the immediate rejection of the One Who gave His life and sent His Advocate for man to help him cope with life. And so life goes on and man is derelict, snared in his own dilemma, and can find no way out because there is but one. Yes, there is one way. The Nazarene who died on Calvary. The One Who rose again. The One Who be came a derelict to give them life. And time is short. We must do what we can — only He can do the rest. This article was written after a visit to our children. Bob and Lil Loewen of Welland, Ontario, who work with delinquents in a Group Home in the Niagara Peninsula.
THE MESSENGER
Calendar Joy by Dauid Mains
M
y wife and I are mismatched. We are opposite in almost every way. In fact, we’ve said to each other that we’d better develop some similarities, so that after our children have gone we’ll have some common ties. Karen is one of those instinct-impulse persons. A free spirit who can commit herself totally to short-term projects, she becomes restless when they run longer than they’re supposed to. She’s literary and poetic, feels everything — all of life’s glory and pain. But she never balances her checkbook and refuses to run the household on a regular system. She will languish physi cally, then suddenly rise, phoenix-fashion, to do five days’ work in 30 minutes, dash off countless articles, whip together a dinner for 40 — simply because she feels like it. She is rare ly predictable. I like order. I am a list maker. I know exactly what the next week holds. I never miss appointments, love to plan ahead, faithfully mark anniversaries, and remember to send cards on special days. I’m a disciplinarian. 1 am consistent and generally predictable. Let’s face it. I’m dull, always wondering whether it’s garbage day or not. To further complicate things, we have four children, each with his or her own distinct, strong personality. We have two full-time ministries, mine in Christian broadcasting and Karen’s in writing. Top it all off with a dog and a cat, fish and a hermit crab, not to speak of house repairs, yard responsibilities, church activities, car schedules, and travel itineraries — does some of this sound familiar?
of experience harmony. But T without of work,
God’s work in our lives is that we do it has not been achieved a great deal hard a submission to one another’s callings and goals, and some special tools. One of them sounds like a very simple thing, but it works. It is the family calendar. Families today are in a crunch: school schedules vie against work schedules, work schedules vie against church schedules — and all these vie against the needs of the fami ly for time with each other. “But I didn’t know we were planning that!” can sound strangely like a battle cry. “Why didn’t you tell me you were planning to go to that meeting!” can be dangerous words. Our calendar, faithfully kept, keeps us from bumping into he miracle
Hamm on Loan to the BGEA The Mennonite Brethren Communications board and administration wishes to announce that Viktor Hamm, Russian radio speaker and evangelist, will be on loan to the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association from April 1,1992, through June 1993. MBC welcomes the opportunity to partner with other evangelistic organizations and com mends Viktor Hamm and the BGEA to you for your concerted prayer support. JANUARY 24, 1992
each other — and it also makes certain that we schedule fa mily time. We are extremely careful about over-booking our calendar; we insist on free space. We don’t take pride in see ing that every day of the week has things scribbled onto it. Sometimes our daughter will hear her mother or me say, “No, you can’t babysit tonight. You’ve already worked too much as it is.” And I get after Karen for crowding one writing deadline against another until not only she, but all the rest of us are
“The miracle of God’s work in our lives is that we do experience harmony. But it has not been achieved without a great deal of hard work, a sub mission to one another’s goals, and some special tools. ”
breathless just watching her fingers pound the computer’s keys. I catch it, too, when I take on too many speaking engagements and the family gets shortchanged. To us, a jam-packed calendar is a sign of lack of discipline, of not having established firm priorities, of being unable to say a healthy “No!” e schedule family times on our calendar just like going to see the doctor. If we don’t write them in, other will take their place. A night with my family is just as important as a speaking engagement. If it is blocked out, I won’t fill it up as if it were an unscheduled evening. My challenge: Start a family calendar. Add the church ac tivities that concern you: youth meetings, choir practices, men’s and women’s meetings. Fill in your other commitments and special events. Block out evenings for fa milies. Guard all open spaces carefully. Each member of the family needs private moments. Obviously we are sold on calendaring. It’s enabling Karen and me to function as a team, instead of pulling off in our own directions and getting nowhere as a family. We have eliminated some of those tense moments that our form er careless scheduling produced. We’re not all the way there yet, by any means, but we’re working hard at it, smoothing out those rough spots that develop in the day-to-day rela tionships of any family.
Wthings
Dauid Mains is the director of The Chapel of the Air. He will be the speaker at the EMC convention at Morris, Juli; 3 to 5. Article courtesy of David C. Cook Publishing Co., 850 N. Grove Ave., Elgin IL 60120.
1992 has been designated the “Year of Revival” for Russia by the BGEA. Plans in clude an extensive program of seminars, ral lies, TV broadcasts, literature production and evangelistic campaigns. It is the vision cind prayer of those involved that this “Year of Revival” will introduce hundreds of thousands of people to the Kingdom of God and help bring stability and direction to that nation. Hamm’s background and experience make him uniquely qualified to give leadership and direction to this venture, and MBC is pleased to make him available to the BGEA.
EMC Ministerial Meeting
Constitution Revision Statement of Faith Review Saturday, February 15 9:00 a.m. Evangelical Fellowship Church 200 Friesen Avenue Steinbach, Man. All ministers and deacons are invited to attend. PAGE 3
SBC Seeks New President
EMC VIDEO LIBRARY Newer additions include the following titles:
Out of the Saltshaker — Becky Pippert’s seminar on evangelism, helping people become enthusiastic about sharing their faith. Four 45-minute programs. Rental: $10 + postage. The Mormon Dilemma — In this moving drama the difference be tween Mormonism and orthodox Christianity is clearly, but lov ingly, presented. 67 minutes. Rental: $6 -t postage. Jesus — The story of Christ from the Gospel of Luke. Filmed in Israel, it has been translated into over 100 languages. Spon sored by Campus Crusade for Christ. 120 minutes. Rental: $5 -I- postage.
The Holiness of God — R.C. Sproul shows that an understand ing of holiness can lead the Christian to true intimacy with God. Six tapes: 1. The Importance of Holiness 2. The Trauma of Holiness 3. The Definition of Holiness 4. The Holiness of Christ 5. Holiness and Justice 6. How Holiness Affects Your Life Rental: $2 each or $10 for the set + postage. Life-Style evangelism — Joe Aldrich helps Christians cross tradi tional boundaries to reach the unbelieving world. Four tapes, 43 to 52 minutes each; 1. When People See the Light 2. Breaking Through the Cultural Barrier 3. Taking the Pulse of the Growing Church 4. Becoming a Redemptive Neighbor Rental: $20 for the set ■+ postage. For bookings or a catalog, call or write: EMC Video Library Box 1268, Steinbach, Man. ROA 2A0 Phone: (204) 326-6401
The Board of Directors of Steinbach Bible College wishes to inform the SBC constituency that President Ben Eidse will be retiring from his position as SBC President effective August 1993. A Presidential Search Committee has been appointed by the Board. The SBC constituency is urged to: *pray for wisdom and direction as a person is sought to assume this position * provide input and suggestions as to a suitable candidate for this position
The Board invites interested individuals to submit a letter of application with a resume before April 1, 1992. Please ad dress all inquiries, suggestions, and letters of application to: Presidential Search Committee Board of Directors Steinbach Bible College Box 1420, Steinbach, MB ROA 2A0 Phone: (204) 326-2155
COMING EVENTS February 15, 9:00 a.m. EMC Ministerial Meeting Statement of Faith Review Evangelical Fellowship Church Steinbach, Man. Phone: (204) 326-6401 March 1 MCI Alumni Benefit Concert CMBC, 600 Shaftesbury Blvd. Winnipeg, Man. Phone: (204)327-5891 March 5-7 MCI Annual Spring Drama “Flowers for Algernon” Gretna, Man. Phone: (204) 327-5891
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Hanover Steinbach Historical Society Inc. To all members and interested individuals:
Date: Place:
Time:
Friday, February 7, 1992 Mennonite Heritage Village Multi-Purpose Room Steinbach, Manitoba 7:00 p.m.
Agenda: 7:00 p.m. ■ Business Meeting 7:30 p.m. - A Presentation of Four Papers on Entrepreneurs of the East Reserve: (1) Abram S. Friesen (1848-1916) by Ralph Friesen (2) Klaas R. Reimer (1837-1906) by Dr. Royden K. Loewen (3) Erdman Penner (1837-1907) by John Dyck (4) Klaas Peters (1855-1932) by Leonard Doell EVERYONE IS WELCOME
Do you have the latest
EMC Yearbook? It includes: •Missionary Directory •Church Directory •Boards and Committees •Conference Council Proceedings
Cost; $3.00 Available from your church or the Conference Office Box 1268 Steinbach, Manitoba ROA 2A0
March 6-8 Mother and Daughter Retreat Camp Moose Lake Sprague, Man. Phone: (204) 896-1616 March 13-14 “Time for Healing” Conference Voices for Non-Violence & MCC Fort Garry MB Church Winnipeg, Man. Phone: (204) 269-8555 March 13-14 Evangelism Alive Seminar Hillsdale Alliance Church Regina, Sask. Phone: (306) 522-3685 May 15-17 EMC Leadership Retreat Brandon, Man. Phone: (204) 326-6401 July 3-5 EMC Annual Convention Speaker: David Mains Morris/Rosenort, Man. Phone: (204) 326-6401 CONTRIBUTORS: C.B. Loewen is a member of the Rosenort EMC. He is also the speaker on the radio program, “De Goode Norecht." Elsie Funk and her husband, Ernest (Pelly) are involved in a teaching minis try in the national church in Paraguay. Marge and Frank Kroeker (Rosenort) live in Asuncion, Paraguay. They are serving with the EMC Board of Mis sions in radio work and field leadership. CORRECTIONS: Ron and Judy Bietz (“Beginning to Understand,” Dec. 6/91, p.3) are mem bers at Braeside EMC, not Fort Garry. Don Neufeld (EMCup, Dec. 6/91, p.6) was incorrectly identified as Darcy. We apologize for the errors. Editor.
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.
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THE MESSENGER
Missions PARAGUAY
Christmas Eve in Yhovy Because Christ Came It is December 24, 1991 - Christmas Eve in Yhovy, Paraguay. The hot, sultry day is drawing to a close; even the sudden, heavy shower hasn’t changed the atmosphere. A cart drawn by two clumsy-looking oxen drives up and parks beside the yellow-painted church. A young couple, with two preschoolers, descend from the cart. Slowly a few more church members trickle in, and by 8:30 p.m. about twenty people have gathered in the little evangelical church. Open doors and windows allow the bugs to buzz around freely; the slow ones get caught every once in a while in the ceiling fan and come smashing to the floor.
One of the church elders addresses the au dience, announcing the reason for this unex pected get-together. (In a previous Sunday morning worship service the elder had begun the preliminaries for this meeting. “A spirit of forgiveness must prevail when a church mem ber confesses his sin and repents,” he said.) A dejected-looking young woman of about 25 years of age is given the opportunity to make a confession. Amidst tears she con fesses to the audience her involvement in adultery, and pleads for forgiveness. The au dience is asked to respond by raising of hands and saying, “Amen.” The message that follows is based on Matthew 18:21-35. The young woman’s case is considered to be very seri ous, with far-reaching consequences. However, as Christians, it is our responsibili ty to forgive and to help restore this marriage.
PARAGUAY
Friends in Need - Friends Indeed! Friendships Renewed Since our “early beginnings” in Paraguay (1963), we have always felt really close to New Tribes missionaries. Often we’d go to them for counsel, comfort, fellowship and encourage ment while struggling through our adjustment years. As a result, many close friendships de veloped. Among these close friends were Paul and Claudia Heckart. In 1970, when we moved to Tres Palmas, way back in the “backwoods” (jungles), we soon discovered that Paul and Claudia (then a young married couple, with two girls and a boy) had moved even further into the interior (approximately 80 km from us), attempting to establish a peaceful contact with the then hostile Ache Indian tribe. Once in a while they would come to visit us in their jeep over the rugged jungle trails. Our kids would play together, while we en joyed our friendship ties. At one time, when Garry (our son) was only 14, he struck out all alone (travelling the long and dangerous road - the long way ’round) to the Heckarts to ac company Paul on one of his “trips” further in, hoping to find a suitable location for a con tact with the Ache. Garry has often recalled how they slashed through the dense jungle, slept under the stars at night and hunted wild pigs, etc. Years slipped by, and while we were home on our “extended furlough” (1984-90) we heard about Pamela, Paul and Claudia’s teenage daughter, being sick with terminal cancer. The Heckarts returned to the U.S. for some years, during which time Pamela went Home to be with the Lord! Obviously, Paul and Claudia and their family went through some deep valleys. Some more years have slipped by and, would you believe it, to our surprise, Paul and Claudia are also now living in Asuncion, not
JANUARY 24, 1992
too far from us. We have already met a few times and refreshed our friendships! Paul is on the New Tribes field administration team and is their “buyer” in Asuncion, while Claudia is in charge of the print shop and does secretar-
Her husband testifies of how the Lord is help ing him and them. The “other wife” has also found strength from the Lord to forgive this young woman. Yes, this is Christmas Eve! Why are we reminded so forcefully of the reason for Christ’s coming to this earth? In Old Testa ment days this young woman would have been condemned to die, according to Leviti cus 20:10. Now she could be forgiven and set free. Jesus came to save His people from their sins (Matthew 1:21). Because of the forgive ness we have experienced in our own lives, it is possible to forgive this woman as well. It just filled my heart with gratitude all over again to know that we do not have to remain condemned. Praise to our heavenly Father, we are free to start over again! Elsie Funk
ial work. When New Tribes’ last Paraguayan field paper. “The Land of the Guarani,” came out, we eagerly read its pages ■ and were especial ly blessed by Claudia’s article. “Jungle Jot tings.” Claudia consented to share it with the Messenger readers. Marge Kroeker
bg Claudia Heckart Asuncion In today’s ecology-conscious world, con cerned with recycling to prevent waste, Paraguay is keeping right up with the times. Supermarket shelves offer salvaged coffee jars filled with jams and jellies and pow dered milk cans refilled with homemade peanut butter. Driving from the capital toward the Ache work, we were impressed with the way Paraguay is using her resources. After leav ing the main highway, all the telephone poles are simply trunks of palm trees. Mile after mile these straight poles faithfully up hold the wires of communication. In the countless times we have made the trip, I have become fascinated with these humble and unsophisticated poles, most of which are supported by a second pole angled to one side. Some, unsupported, lean perilously toward collapse, though the wires are still connected and the message does get through. But alas, some of the un supported ones have succumbed to the buffeting of the storms and the uncertainty of the swamps and have collapsed, pull ing the lines of communication down with them. Not only is the message lost, but more strain is put on the remaining poles. I couldn’t help but see a parallel between these palm tree poles and the missionary.
The tree could have remained in the palm grove, comfortable with its neighbors, in distinguishable from the crowd. Instead it left its home grove to carry a message to remote areas. But the job was tough and the palm tree needed support, just like the missionary who cannot do the job alone. Even as the phone pole needed another tree to sustain it, so the missionary needs the “tree” of the home church to sustain him in the storms and swamps of the ministry. The telephone wires represent the mar velous message that makes it all worth while — the Gospel of Jesus Christ. What kind of palm tree are you? The sturdy tree carrying the message, the faith ful tree supporting the earner, or are you nestled comfortably in the palm grove, ig noring those who struggle to carry the pre cious communication?
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Messenger News
In my early teen years 1 fought discipline and set out to do everything that 1 had been told not to do. At the age of 16 1 left home. From then on 1 was hooked on anything that life had to offer or that 1 thought was ex citing. 1 was married at the age of 20. 1 tried to
be a good wife and mother. 1 wanted to be a good person. I thought that with my strong will 1 could earn the world’s approval. 1 suc ceeded to the degree that my conscience said 1 was good enough. Then my world fell apeirt. 1 was pregnant with my second child when my husband and 1 separated. 1 realized then that 1 was not the good person 1 believed 1 had become. 1 had not succeeded as well as 1 had believed. I was completely empty and in desperation; for the first time in my life 1 was compelled to pray. 1 cried out to a God 1 did not know. I doubted He was even listening. Over the next four weeks or so I was totally confused and did not know where my life was going. 1 had been seeing a Christian counsellor for a few weeks to deal with my separation and emotional state. He also kept telling me how much Jesus loved me. On December 4, 1990, during one ses sion, in frustration, 1 finally asked, “Who is God?’’ Carefully and patiently he explained the plan of salvation. 1 realized 1 was a sinner and no matter how hard 1 tried, I could not be good enough. I could not earn my salvation. 1 stepped out in faith and believed that Jesus Christ had died for me because He loved me! I then con fessed my sins and accepted this perfect gift from God. I now have eternal life! As I left their home that night I was over whelmed by what had just happened. 1 real ized that if 1 died that night I would go to heaven. Such a complete peace and com fort enclosed me on that ride home. 1 know that the Bible says that all of heaven rejoices when a lost sheep is found
LOOKING BACK - 1991 Morweena, Man.: On a cold January day, one year ago, God sat faac/c on His Throne And He commanded . . . Call Death, Call Death . . . And Death heard the summons . . . And waited for God’s command. And God said. Go down. Death, go down . . . And find (Brother Lloyd). . . Go down, Death, and bring him to me. Death . . . loosed the reins On his pale white horse And out and down he rode. Through heaven’s pearly gates Straight down he came (Lloyd) turned his eyes and looked. . . He saw what we could not see. He saw Death. He saw Death. But Death did not frighten (Lloyd). He looked like a welcome friend. He thought, “I’m going home. ’’ And he closed his eyes And Death took him up . . . And began to ride again
Lip beyond the . . . stars Into the glittering lights of glory And there he laid (Lloyd) On the loving breast of Jesus. It has been a long and difficult year for Arlene and her girls as they have tried to ad just to life without a husband and daddy. So many times they’ve thought, “If only Daddy could see this ...” or “I wish Daddy were here to . . .” as milestones were reached in their lives. Our hearts and prayers continue to go out to Arlene and the rest of the family as they have just commemorated the first anniversary of Lloyd’s death. But if the Lord has taken away, it is also true that He has blessed us, by adding two new members to our fellowship this past year. Christy Reimer (on June 30) and Rose Harasemiw (on November 17) were baptized upon their desire to make known their intent to be obedient to Christ as a member of His body of believers. It has been a real joy and blessing to see the Holy Spirit at work in their lives as they grow in their Christian faith. As part of our New Year’s Day service, our
A FAITH STORY Rosenort Fellowship (Man.): IVbat happens when disaster strikes, when the un expected happens? It is in these times that pain is felt but also a time when a doorway to faith is opened. This is one such story but we will let the author tell it in her own words: 1 was bom and raised in this community. I grew up on a farm, along with seven brothers and sisters. We had a good family life. My parents loved me and taught me the principles of life from the Bible.
Pat Penner was baptized at the Rosenort Fellowship Chapel on November 24. Left to right: Pastor Michael Derksen, Pat Penner, Margaret Derksen.
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but 1 was not prepared for the rejoicing of many Christians over my decision. Since that decision, life has not been all roses. The road has been rough and long, with many trials and temptations on the way. But no matter what changes come my way, 1 know that I can trust my Lord to carry me through. 1 also discovered that God uses people, and my care group, through prayers and car ing, have been a great strength to me. Trust ing the Lord with every detail of my life has been a struggle for me. Often 1 find myself fighting to do it in my own strength. Then 1 realize that Jesus is waiting to be asked to lift and carry any and every burden. It is won derful to be able to teach my children about Jesus and that He will be with them always. My heavenly Father has affirmed me, tell ing me that 1 have been bought with a price, I am special to Him. He will take me by the hand and lead me and He will let no harm befall me. During a message in church, I strongly felt that God was asking me to take the step of baptism. 1 want the world to know 1 belong to the body of Christ. 1 believe God has called me to this church. 1 thank you all for your prayers and support. 1 also thank you for standing behind me and allowing me to make my own decisions in my own time. Please pray for me that I will be true to my Lord and Saviour. Pat Penner Pat mas baptized at the Rosenort Fellow ship Chapel on Nouember 24, 1991. We are blessed bp her presence with us.
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Christy Reimer was baptized at the Morweena EMC (seen with Pastor Glenn Plett). Missing is Rose Harasemiw.
pastor gave us a brief review of some of the sermons we heard in 1991. God’s Word has been expounded, the seed sown by men who allowed themselves to be instruments of God, and the Lord has watered - sometimes with gentle rains, sometimes with hailstones and fierce winds, at times like softly falling snow and other times with a blizzeird’s stinging blasts. And as we emerged from the buffets and balm of 1991, into a new and yet untried year, have we been honed into a more likely image of Christ? Marlene Reimer
THE MESSENGER
I r Elroy Friesen leading the choir at the St. Vital Christmas program.
RETREAT ENJOYED -/
St. Vital, Man.: Well, it’s the first day of the new year. Since most of my resolutions could be summed up in the words, “Buckle down and DO it,” 1 think Fm right in line by doing the St. Vited Messenger report today. First of all, I must apologize to our congre gation and to The Messenger for not being a faithful reporter. A lot of things have tciken place in our midst, and they deserve to be reported. Fm sorry. I hope I won’t miss any thing of major importance. A first for us in 1991 was our church pic nic at St. Vital Park. An open-air service was held near the river, and large numbers of bar beques and cooks kept us well fed. Afternoon showers put a premature stop to the proceed ings, but the day was enjoyed by all. Another important item this summer was the renovation of the sanctuary. Although this task proved slightly more difficult than any one had anticipated, the job was soon com pleted. With the purchase of some chairs, our seating area increased considerably. The help of all volunteers was greatly appreciated. There were times this summer when it seemed as though all our new space would not be needed. But just as the leaves turn from green to red and gold to signify the coming of fall, so too the return of members from camp, vacations and summer missions to fill the pews signified the start of a new season for St. Vital. This would be a season of ad justments and new beginnings. There were
MISSIONARIES APPRECIATED
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Pcily, Sask.: It has been interesting to read in the Messenger of the various missionaries who have served at fall missionary confer ences and sometimes 1 think, “My, it would have been nice to have had them here” (please realize this is just speaking for myself). However, we have never been disappointed with whom we’ve had. That certainly was true again this fall, November 15-17. We had been without a pastor since the middle of Septem ber and at times felt we were coming un ravelled. Then came this great weekend in mid-November. It was so good to have Grace Thiessen, Jake and Marie Plett, Abe Gies brecht, Luella Loewen and Dora Friesen each bringing their individual reports and messages. They gave us so much insight into their lifestyles and how the Lord is building His church. Thank you. Each of you was a real encouragement to us. Ben Friesen was also with us for a service, which is always ap preciated. News from Paraguay was of speJ ANU ARY 24, 1992
good-byes to be said to friends moving away and to those who were off to college for a time. There were hellos to be said to all the new faces. Some of us were adjusting to school, others to new jobs, others to no jobs. Some were adjusting to an increased family circle, others to an emptier nest. Groups which had ceased meeting for the summer began to meet again. New Sunday school classes were started. And a new Kids Klub was brought into being, led by Ian MacBeath. A very special fall event was our church retreat at Gimli Bible Camp. Alan and Evelyn Davison did a great job of organizing the event and choosing leaders for the different activi ties and workshops. Excellent food and fel lowship was the order of the day, as well as learning from God’s word. As fall moved into winter, a number of events took place. Joshua Spickett and Scott Reitmeier, together with their parents, were dedicated to the Lord one Sunday morning. We celebrated together with a potluck meal. A communion service was held. Another Sun day saw Jon Bonk talk to us about missions in the morning and the Paraguay summer mis sions team report to us in the evening. We raised our voices in song on another Sunday evening. In between Sundays a number of congrega tional meetings took place. At one of these meetings we heard testimonies from those who wanted to join the church, and the fol lowing Sunday we welcomed Brenda Blais, Kris Goertzen and Tanya Giesbrecht into
cial interest to us and we even got a glimpse of the house that Ernest and Elsie Funk live in. November 10 we had a couple candidating for ministry. Murray and Linda Vader, with their two children, stayed on in the area for the following week and throughout the weekend of our conference and visited in as many homes as possible. We are pleased to report that we have called them to pastor our church and they have accepted. They moved here at the beginning of January. It is good to have the pastor’s home buzzing with life again. On December 9 we ladies had our annual Christmas party. It was a lovely mild evening and almost all of the ladies were in attendance; there were also a number of visitors. It was a supper party with games, gifts, singing and visiting, an enjoyable evening during this won derful season. In closing, we would like to wish each of our readers health and happiness for 1992. Viuian Anflnson
Tanya Giesbrecht, Kris Goertzen and Brenda Blais recently became members of the St. Vital church.
membership. At our last congregational meet ing, a constitution was accepted. Bert Loewen deserves thanks for showing us why we need a constitution and for his help in bringing us to this point. Elroy Friesen brought the choir together again for Christmas, and the results were heard at Aberdeen EMC on the morning of December 8. The choir returned home from its “road trip” that evening to put on a joint Christmas program with the Sunday school which was much enjoyed. And to top off the year, a New Year’s celebration party was held December 31, with the College and Career leadership in charge. As we look forward to the new year, with all its challenges, I pray that God will bless us as we try to do His will. Janet Hamm
SHARING CHRIST, THE LIGHT
Brandon, Man.: This year amidst the busy ness of Christmas preparations, we found a general consensus of a need for time off. In a small church it is often the same people who are asked year after year to peirticipate in plan ning and participating in a Christmas program, which can be draining. So this Christmas we decided that we would not prepare a tradition al program, but instead go caroling as a church family in the immediate community. In preparation for this event, the ladies busied their hands with making decorative candle holders to give to each home we would visit. Notes were also made up, explaining the symbolism of us sharing this burning candle with them - Christ is our Light, whom we want to share with those around us. The awaited evening finally arrived, and we set out equipped with candles and matches, song sheets and bells, and children in tow on toboggans. We were greeted with smiles and some looks of confusion; some joined in the singing; some offered donations, but it was our turn to give - a truly heartwarming experience. With freezing feet and wet, snow-covered children, we returned to the church for hot chocolate, pizza, and goodies. Then we had our own little program with each family presenting something special, such as the Christmas story, using a manger scene, poems, music, recitation of the Christmas sto ry, and games. 1 think we all shone a little brighter that even ing as we shared the love and light of Christ with our community and with one another. God truly gives to us, as we give to others. Lorie Schlamp PAGE 7
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REACHING OUT
CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES Portage la Prairie, Man.: November 2, 1941, to November 2,1991, equals 50 years! “To love and cherish.” Marriage vows were ex changed in Aberdeen, Saskatchewan, be tween Kay Quiring and Peter Hamm. Rev. Henry Neudorf married them and Isaac Ber gen and Peter Koop were the signing witness es. Their family, two sons and three daughters and spouses, were all here to host and celebrate a Come and Go Tea on October 26, 1991. Eleven of their fourteen grandchildren were also present for this occasion. About 250 friends and relatives responded to the invita tion. A surprise program was put on by the family. Ben Wiebe and Dick Fehr provided the music. This was the second 50th anniversary celebration for our church - Henry and Han nah Neufeld (1940-90) and now Peter and Kay Hamm. The parents of both couples were like grandparents to me. Now these couples are my parent image since my parents have “returned Home.” Peter and Kay are always giving of them selves. They interact with all, especially the wee ones and young people, in touch with everyone. I asked Peter and Kay what they would like to add to this, and their response was, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him” (Romans 8:28). They are an inspiration to our church family and we wish them more happy years together. God bless you both. Other activities of the season were a ladies’
Christmas party on November 25, an adult Christmas banquet on December 14 and the annual Sunday school program on December 15. Londa Nickel, with Paul assisting, directed the children’s choir in a Christmas cantata. The cantata was also presented at the new Douglas Campbell Lodge for Seniors. The first four Sundays of December and Christmas Day we had messages for the Ad vent season: Theme: “A Love Story,” “Mary: A life touched by God’s love,” “Shepherds: Touched by God’s love,” “The World: Touched by God’s love,” “Joseph: A life touched by God’s love,” “The Wise Men: Responding to God’s Gift of love.” These truths were presented through messages, dra ma and songs. 1991 went out with a watchnight program. It was an evening of games, fellowship, food, a Billy Graham film, “The Cry on the Moun tain,” a devotional by Darrell Dyck, and “The Lord’s Prayer” at the stroke of midnight. Hap py new year to one and all! Catherine Epp
MISSIONARY CONFERENCE MacGregor, Man.: Our missionary confer ence took place November 16-18. The mes sages were well delivered by Marvin Thiessen of Janz Team Ministries, the speaker for the weekend. He spoke on the topics, “Pray,” “Give” and “Go.” Just how far am I willing to go that the Gospel may be preached? Just how much am I willing to giue that the lost ones may be reached? Just how much am I willing to pay for the souls that are lost in sin? Just how much am I willing to do to go and bring them in? Lillian Sawatzky
Interaction after the service.
Kay and Peter Hamm celebrated their 50th wedding anniversay on October 26.
Mennville, Man.: Reflecting on the latter part of 1991, I see again how the emphasis on reaching out and sharing Christ has been a challenge held before us here at Mennville. October 20 was a unique day for the Region 5 churches as they met for a “Missions Day” at the Vidir Hall. Fred Friesen, Ernie and Diane Koop and Walter Reimer shared honestly of the struggles and victories involved with missions. Several weeks later we held our own local missions conference. We enjoyed the reports of our visitng missionaries and were inspired by the enthusiastic messages presented each session by Neil Rempel. The theme was “Mis sions Begins at Home.” For several in our fel lowship this has translated itself into conducting Bible studies in the community outside of the regular care groups structured within the church. For others it means con tinuing to work at “building bridges” in a friend ship evangelism style. For those who have a special interest in foreign missions, the oppor tunity to experience a little of what it entails, exists within our own fellowship right now! Living in our midst is a Laotian family. Samlane and Phettodoune Sattakoune spent nine years in a Thai refugee camp waiting to im migrate to Canada. Their dream finally came true! Their presence has created many oppor tunities for service. Babysitting (they have three children), blanket making, creating em ployment, shopping trips, doctor’s appoint ments, extending hospitality, teaching language and Canadian cooking ways are some of the activities that have taken/are tak ing place. A big thank you is owed to the Klass Friesen and Ed Harms families. They have as sumed a tremendous amount of responsibili ty in helping this family cope and get settled. With some cultural and language barriers still evident, our actions truly speak louder than our words! The effort of extending friendship and love to those who are “different” from us enables us to empathize somewhat with our foreign missionaries who are constantly in such circumstances. May it motivate us to pray more diligently for them. Happy New Year and God’s best in 1992. Carol Hiebert
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/ A > The Thiessen quartet concert blessed the audience on Sunday evening: Marvin, Larry, Irvin and Leonard. PAGE 8
An informative, challenging service was well attended.
THE MESSENGER
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The Kleefeld Sewing Circle had their Christmas banquet at Alma's Kitchen on December 9. Left to right (standing): Katherine Dueck, Betty Falk, Frieda Schroeder, Helen Fast, Esther Dueck, Nettie Fast, Ellie Martens, Helen Dueck, Gertie Sonnichsen, Clara Koop (treasurer), Nettie Peters (secretary), Adina Penner. Sitting: Elizabeth Friesen, Margaret Dueck, Martha Schellenberg (vice-president), Lena Schellenberg, Katherine Reimer.
New members were accepted into the Kleefeld church on Novem ber 24. Left to right: Pastor John and Clara Koop, Jake and Esther Froeze, Glen and Deb Kuhl, Gail and Terry Tiessen, Calvin Tiessen.
LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOUR Kleefeld, Man.: “Love your neighbour as yourself.” This can be done in a most practi cal, down-to-earth way, by putting our faith into action. The Sewing Circle offers this kind of opportunity by knitting and sewing for those in need. And those in need, from around the world, are our neighbours. The sewing of MCC blankets, the knitting of socks and mitts, the making of scarves and slippers, creates a special joy within our hearts to be able to share with those less fortunate. Our prayer is that the recipients may in turn feel the love of Je sus enfolding them! We have so many reasons to praise the Lord! Once again we have been blessed with more members joining our growing church family. We heartily welcome Scott Ferguson,. James and Sandi Toews, Andrew Wiebe, Jake and Esther Froeze, Glen and Deb Kuhl, Terry and Gail Tiessen and Calvin Tiessen. We wish you God’s richest blessings as you serve and fellowship with us.
Morris. Man.: t
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Baptism and reception of members at the Morris Fellowship Chapel. Left to right: Chris Eidse, Patti Dewaid (transfer), George Nickel (transfer).
JANUARY 24, 1992
Abe and Mary Reimer's golden wedding took place at the Personal Care Home in Steinbach on December 7.
Six people were accepted into the membership of the Kleefeld church on December 15. Left to right: Pastor John Koop, Scotland Rhonda Ferguson, Sandi and James Toews, Andrew and Shauna Wiebe.
This will be my last report for the time being. I have enjoyed writing the Church News ever since I started in 1971, all because the Lord has been wonderfully faithful and en-
couraging and helping me in this task, for which I thank Him! I also wish you, the “reading audience,” God’s very best in 1992! Nettie Fast
LADIES ENJOY CHRISTMAS BANQUET
Mount Salem, Ont.: A larger group of our church family left to visit family and friends for Christmas. Some went to Manitoba, others to Mexico and Belize. With everyone back home and the happy and blessed Christmas season behind us, things seem to be back to normal again. On January 11 we had our annual meeting, with each committee giving a report. Elections were held and decisions made. On New Year’s Eve we had our ladies’ Christmas banquet, the only time of the yeeir when the ladies invite their husbands to join them. About 90 of us enjoyed a delicious tur key supper and pie for dessert. An offering was taken, which went for the new building project. We had a large quilt as a door prize, as well as a few smaller gifts. Wilbert and Hil da were presented with an appreciation gift. The evening included some singing, the read ing of a few poems and a video, “In His Steps.” The video is about a church group, who, be fore doing anything, ask themselves, “What would Jesus do?” (I Peter 2:21). Having just read the book by the same title, it was very rewarding to me. January 5 was set aside as a day of prayer, where we prayed for missionaries both at home and abroad, especially for Peter Reim ers and Jake and Anna Enns and their work in Leamington, and for those in leadership in our Conference. Let’s continue to pray for Marvin and Wendy, who are looking forward to conducting revival meetings in this area in March.
On January 12 Pastor Friesen’s message was "Walking in His Steps” (I Peter 2:21), based on the parable of the mustard seed. “Again he said, ‘What shall we say the King dom of God is like, or what parable shall we use to describe it? It is like a mustard seed which is the smallest seed you plant in the ground. Yet when planted, it grows and be comes the largest of all garden plants, with such big branches that the birds of the air can perch in its shade’ ” (Mark 4:30-32). There has to be growth, and in order to grow you need a good diet. We need to keep clean in our physical life in order to grow in our spiritual life. We exercise physically to keep fit and we also need to exercise spiritually and share our faith. “He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers” (Psalm 1:3). The SEAN classes (Books 1,3 and 5) have again started. The young people had their banquet on De cember 15, with 93 attending. They had a blessed evening. We had unseasonably warm weather through the holidays, which I’m sure we en joyed, but our ‘nice’ winter came to an end on January 14, when we were hit by a nasty, cold winter storm. Let’s not forget to pray for the sick — Mrs. Gertrude Enns, who is slowly recovering from surgery, and Frank Reimer, who injured his hand at work. Kathi/ Klassen PAGE 9
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Barbecue supper for the Moms Sunday school class in the Swift Current church.
Thanksgiving display at the Swift Current church.
SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS ENJOYS BARBECUE
Swift Current, Sask.: The busy schedule of the fall season carried over into November, with no sign of letting up. Meetings and meals were the order of the day, although there were plenty of somewhat less demanding activities taking place as well. Almost 45 adults and children spent an af ternoon of “close” fellowship at our home when the Mom’s Sunday school class visited our farm for a barbecue supper in September. Men braved the cool, damp and windy weather to barbecue delicious hamburgers and hot dogs. Children, undaunted by the cold wind, enjoyed taking turns for short rides on our horse. Ginger. Introductions were also made to the family calves and kittens and, of course, our dogs, a blue heeler named T.J. and our “house” dog. Bear. Bear is a small, cudd ly honey-colored poodle who easily won the hearts of adults and children alike. Everyone enjoyed themselves and hopefully we can get together annually for a celebration of fun and
GROWTH EXPERIENCED La Crete, Alta.: Greetings and a blessed new year to all from La Crete Christian Fel lowship! We begin the new year stronger in body by the addition of seven new members, five by baptism and two by transfer. The bap tismal service was held December 1 and was followed by a communion and footwashing service. We had eight weddings, eleven bap tisms and sixteen new babies bom to people in our congregation in 1991. Our Sunday school remained strong, with an average at tendance of 200. We are weakened by the absence of Peter and Telita Janzen and their family, but we trust they will return at the appointed time. We have cause to rejoice in the abundance we have, which has allowed us as a congregation to provide partial support to two missionaries, as well as keeping our own affairs in order. There is a quiet strength here, an underlying resilience that speaks of a foundation set upon a rock, strength that looks forward without trembling and strengthens the hands of the weak. May all who read these words also be strengthened and may our witness reach out to the ends of the earth. Patrick Heglund PAGE 10
fellowship. October was an extremely busy month for everyone! We celebrated Thanksgiving with a traditional turkey supper and program. It’s good to offer praise and thanks to our Crea tor together as members of one family. We were privileged to have Marvin Thies sen speak to us at deeper life meetings in Oc tober. He preached the first few days in English and two services in Low German. Our annual Missions Conference immediately fol lowed the deeper life meetings, with Mr. Thies sen serving as guest speaker for this event as well. Our theme was “God Working In Us, God Working Through Us.” We experienced an unexpected taste of winter in late October with a heavy snowfall and temperatures taking a quick nose dive. Then, just as quickly as it turned cold, tem peratures rose and the snow began to disap pear. We still have a bit left but the temperatures are neeir normal, which serves as a daily reminder that winter indeed is here. I attended the WordPower ’91 conference held in Winnipeg November 1 and 2. It was the first time I’d been to Winnipeg, or to a writer’s conference and . . . wowser! What memories that weekend has left me with! As a result, I could write a skit, poem, drama and a novel (just kidding!) and likely not write about the same thing twice. The Lord gave me the
needed courage to travel to and through Win nipeg. Imagine ... a country bumpkin travel ling full tilt along Henderson Highway ■ which I learned firsthand is not really a highway! It’s a GOOD thing I didn’t know it was a freeway until after I was on it, or I never would have attempted it! He also gave me the strength and courage (and it took MUCH courage!) to spend the weekend with 150 complete strangers. But I met many wonderful people from all over the place. We all had two things in common which drew us together ... a love of writing and a love for the Lord Jesus. Another highlight was sharing the long ride with Darlene Olfert. Lester and Darlene will be leaving all too soon to take up a new posi tion with the Conference. It was a special op portunity for me to spend some quality and quantity time with a very dear friend. 1 will remember our trip with fondness for a long, long time. We even got to stay an extra night in Winnipeg with Lyndon, Bailey and Todd, thanks to a Winnipeg blizzard that wouldn’t let us leave the city! I truly did enjoy myself. I was impressed with the friendliness and helpfulness of those whom the Lord allowed to touch my life, albeit ever so briefly. But I must admit, the somewhat barren and bald fields of southwest Saskat chewan sure looked good after my weekend adventure. Cindy Penner
GUEST SPEAKERS A BLESSING Rosenort, Man.: Guest speakers have again been a blessing to us. Ernie Loewen of Pleasant Valley, William Thiessen of Winkler (Zion Mennonite), Merlin Bartel of Steinbach and Arnold Weber of Alberta (on Christmas Day) all brought us excellent messages in our worship services. We thank them heartily! The Webers frequently attended our services dur ing Arnold’s semester at Steinbach Bible College. The annual Canadian Bible Society rally, which involves Pleasant Valley and the two Rosenort churches, was held in our sanctu ary on December 1. Harry Vibe had a very good report on his recent trip to Russia and the great need for Bibles there. Our youth had a month-long and very suc cessful Christmas charity project for the Un ion Gospel Mission. Donated articles included non-perishable food items, men’s, women’s
and children’s clothing, toys, mittens, boots, etc. Wayne Fields came in the Mission’s van to pick it all up. He was obviously delighted, but no more so than the many poor people who received the gifts. On the 8th of Decem ber the youth groups put on a fund-raising din ner at the church, which was also partly for the Mission and partly for the annual youth snow camp at Camp Ames, which had an ex cellent turnout. The Ladies’ Fellowship gathered gifts for the Crisis Pregnancy Center in Winnipeg. Their “Christmas special” evening also included food, fun, carols and fellowship. Another very special event for all of us was the reception of new members, Arlin and Lori Scharfenberg, in our morning service on De cember 8. They are already quite involved there with Lori serving enthusiastically with AWANA and Arlin recently elected to our mis sions committee. THE MESSENGER
On December 15 the choir, under Lome Kornelson’s direction, presented their Christ mas cantata, “Christ is Bom.” It was much ap preciated. A week later we were treated to a nostalgic Sunday school Christmas program called “Christmas Memories.” It starred Mrs John B. Loewen as the reminiscing Mrs. Jenkins. All the young students were also able to have a real part in word and song, and many older people contributed costumes, old toys, etc. Recently hospitalized have been Jeffrey Dueck, son of Wes and Melody, with a broken cirm from a fall at school, Jake K. Friesen be cause of a heart ailment, and Alfred Dueck for surgery. All are mending slowly. Comie Loewen based his New Year’s mes sage on the life of Elijah and particularly those times when he was discouraged. After Mount Carmel’s victory came the cave of despair where God sent the ravens to feed His prophet. Then he was told to let a widow with practically no resources feed him. It must have been humiliating! But God was still with him. So too, God has not promised us prosperity and clear sailing for 1992. He has promised to be with us. There will be grave predica ments and problems, sickness and even death among believers and unbelievers. Let’s live brave, godly lives to show the world God is still with us! He is! And if He is with us, then everything is alright. “There will not fail one word of His promises.” Leui Dueck
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PETER J.K. LOEWEN 1907 — 1991 “Be at rest once more, O my soul, for the Lord has been good to you. How can I repay the Lord for all his goodness to me? Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints” (Psalm 116:7,12,15). Our dear heavenly Father called ‘home’ our dear earthly husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather at 12 noon on Sunday, December 29, 1991. We rejoice in the hope that after two years of complete dependence on other people’s hands, he is released from his physical and emotional weakness to be forever in the presence of his Saviour. Several of the family members, including Mother, were at his bedside softly singing when he peace fully departed. The flu he contracted about ten days earlier was given as the cause of hasten ing his death, although his main ailments were his stroke and a slowly developing prostate cancer. It was never easy for Dad to verbally express his faith, but the way he lived was evidence of his deep faith in God. We’ll always rememJANUARY 24, 1992
ber him as a man of integrity, a man of dig nity and courage in times of trials and blessed with a sense of humour. We fondly remem ber Dad sitting at his writing desk, and later in his rocker, reading his Bible for hours. His earthly pilgrimage began on November 10, 1907, when he was born to John and Elizabeth Loewen of Rosenhof near Morris. He reached the age of 84 years and seven weeks. He was baptized upon his confession of faith in Jesus Christ at the age of 20 and received as a member of the Rosenort Evan gelical Mennonite Church. On November 23, 1930, he married our mother, Annie Dueck of Rosenort. God graciously gave them 61 years of sharing their joys and sorrows. Dad underwent two major surgeries during his lifetime - goiter surgery in 1937, which was a very traumatic time for his young family, and kidney surgery in 1976. Two very special occasions in Mom and Dad’s lives were their 50th and 60th wedding annivesaries. Our mother has been Dad’s faithful and cou rageous supporter and ‘helpmeet.’ Together they created a home that to us children was a haven of security and unconditional love and acceptance. Together they supported and affirmed us as we left home in pursuit of jobs, Bible College, Teachers College, nursing careers and marriage, always assuring us of their prayers. Dad had a deep commitment to the local church and to Confernece activities, giving full support to family members who felt the call to various kinds of ministries. Mom and Dad moved off the farm to retire into a new home in 1974, after all their chil dren had left home. They enjoyed their new home together until two years ago when they made the difficult decision to move to the Rosenort Eventide Nursing Home. Dad suffered a mild stroke during their third week at Eventide and was admitted to the Morris General Hospital, where he stayed for ten months. To Mom’s sorrow. Dad was unable to return to Eventide but was transfened to the Red River Valley Lodge in Morris in Sep tember 1990. Throughout this past year. Mom, with her own failing health, has brave ly attempted to visit Dad several times a week. As a family, these last two years have called for commitment and regular support to the parents we loved and to whom we owe so much. Dad was predeceased by his parents, five sisters, one Isrother, three stepbrothers, three siblings in infancy; one grandson, Kenton Kroeker, and one son-in-law, Abe Bartel. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Annie, six daughters and three sons: John and wife Sarah; Nettie, Mrs. Abe Bar tel; Bertha and husband Jake Kroeker; Vic tor and wife Frieda; Lena and husband Wilbert Dueck; Mary; Betty and husband Ernie Sie mens; Len and wife Marlene; Merna and hus band David Thiessen; thirty-three grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren; one brother, Jacob K. Loewen; one stepsister, Mrs. Peter Plett of Blumenort. We gratefully remember the staff at Even-
tide Home, Morris General Hospital and Red River Valley Lodge, who so wonderfully cared for Dad these last two years. A special thank you to Uncle Cornie and Uncle Jake for their loving and faithful ministries to Dad, as well as the many friends and relatives who visited him. May God bless and reward you all! The family
Births GIESBRECHT • to Vic and Rita Giesbrecht of Win nipeg, Man., a daughter, Meaghan Danielle, on De cember 17, 1991.
PETERS - to Abe and Maria Peters of Blumenort, Man., a daughter, Naomi Maria, on December 5, 1991.
REITMEIER — to Bob and Verna Reitmeier of Win nipeg, Man., a son, Scott Alan Luke, on July 23, 1991. REIMER — to Henry and Sara Reimer of Arborg, Man., a son, Trevor Cordell, on January 29, 1991. PLETT — to Ray and Janice Plett of Linden, Alta., a daughter, Jannie LaVonne Joy, on February 5, 1991. PLETT — to Milton and Valerie Plett of Arborg, Man., a daughter, Judith Valerie Fay, on March 13, 1991. LOEWEN — to John and Emily Loewen of Pickle Lake, Ont., a daughter, Sherayah Joy, on Septem ber 8, 1991.
Weddings NEUFELD - PENNER: Tim, son of John and Sara Neufeld of Steinbach, Man., was married on August 24,1991, to Lois, daughter of Menno and Mary Pen ner of Arborg, Man. The wedding took place at the Grace Mennonite Church in Steinbach, with Menno Penner, father of the bride, officiating. The couple is residing in Steinbach. HYSLOP - MARTENS: Rick, son of Arnold and Brenda Hyslop of Hamilton, Ont., and Trudy, daughter of John and Gertrude Martens of Yarrow, B.C., were married on August 10, 1991, at the Yar row Mennonite Brethren Church, with Ron Braun of Yarrow officiating. The couple is making their home in Winnipeg, Man. REIMER - PLETT: Lyndon, son of Mr. and Mrs. Abe Reimer of Arborg, Man., was married to Violet, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joas Plett of Arborg. The wedding took place on October 12, 1991, at the Morweena E.M. Church in Arborg, with Glenn Plett of Arborg officiating. The couple is residing in Arborg. LOEWEN ROSCHE: Bob, son of Ken and Mary Loewen of Blumenort, Man., and Bonnie, daugh ter of Willie and Leona Rosche of Steinbach, Man., were married at the Blumenort E.M. Church on Sep tember 28, 1991. Walter Reimer of Blumenort officiated. The couple is making their home in Blumenort. FRIESEN - LOEWEN: Hans, son of Abram and Anna Friesen of Aylmer, Ont., was married on Janu ary 12, 1992, to Ellie, daughter of Hein and Susanna Loewen of Vienna, Ont. The wedding took place at the Mount Salem EMC, with Wilbert Friesen of Aylmer officiating. The couple is making their home in Aylmer. PAGE 11
From the Editor That Blessed Hope ... "Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ" (Titus 2:13). WHEN THE STRUGGLES and troubles of life tend to overwhelm us, it is refreshing to be reminded that better times are ahead. The Christian has a “blessed hope” that Jesus, the Saviour, will return. When He comes all wrongs will be righted. In the meantime we can be as sured the Lord is always near. “To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gen tiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Col. 1:27). The mystery of the indwelling Christ in all believers is indeed a glorious hope. “Christ in you” is the refrain that enables us to meet the challenges of life head on. He pro vides His resources to meet our needs, whatever they may be. . Hope thou in God; for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance” (Psalm 42:5). Repeatedly the psalmist bursts into expressions of hope and expectation. His hope is rooted in the sure promises of God. Such hope, he declares, causes him to praise the Lord. We echo his assurance. Praise God for the capacity to hope. “At that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world” (Eph. 2:12). Paul reminds us of our life before we turned to Christ. It was a time of hopelessness, because we were outside of God’s family of faith. Life was meaningless. In such a state the future looks even more dismal than the past. “But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope” (I Thes. 4:13). Christians may be encouraged by the hope of reunion with loved ones who have died in the Lord. When Jesus returns we will be reunited and rejoice in His presence forever. Unbelievers have no hope of reunion with loved ones. “... We .. . have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: which hope we have as an anchor of the soul” (Heb. 6:18,19). The anchor is necessary equipment on a ship. In stormy weather the anchor is let down and the ship is kept from smashing on the rocky shore. For Christians, hope is an anchor for the soul, helping them to safely PAGE 12
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weather the storms of life. They recognize Christ as the rock in whom their anchor of hope is kept. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively (living) hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (I Peter
1:3). Through the new birth God has mercifully provided a living hope for us. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the means by which hope becomes not only our expectation but also our life. He causes us to share His undying life. “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable” (I Cor. 15:19). Paul ponders the consequences if Christ had not been resurrected, as some claimed. He concludes that we would be “most miserable.” Life would lose its meaning and purpose. “But now is Christ risen from the dead,” he continues. Therefore our faith and hope are valid, and we may rejoice. “And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure” (I John 3:3). People who have a living hope in Christ expect His return at any time. Because they want to be like Him, they take pains to constantly purify themselves. This is not a slavish looking inside themselves for dirt to sweep away, but a dependence upon Christ to resist temptation in all its forms. They experience ongoing renewal in Christ. “Rejoicing in hope . . .” (Rom. 12:12). One of the characteristics of the Christian life is its radiant joy. Our hope of all that God has promised to do for us in Christ gives us reason to be joyful. He enables us to rejoice even in suffering and persecution. “And we desire that every one of you do show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end” (Heb. 6:11). Through our devotion to God and service to others in His name, we demonstrate the confidence of our hope. We are encouraged to continue our devotion and service as long as we live. Our expression of hope honours the Lord who makes it possible. “And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity” (I Cor. 13:13). Hope is one of the three great virtues of the Christian life, as are faith and love. Equipped with faith as the shield, hope as the anchor and love as the heart we are ready for life today and forever. Jesus is coming! What a glorious hope is ours! Menno Hamm
THE MESSENGER