The Messenger December 7, 1994

YEAR OF THE FAMILY

|

Messenger

TF CONFFRFNCF EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE

VOL 32 NO. 21

F

DEC. 7/94

l: • !

i

bi

pl Mr

(Greatest €>tUl by Eleanor Lee Gitstaw Baby Jesus, born today, come into our hearts to stay.

Bring to you our treasures small, with richest praise on knee we bow.

Yours the greatest birth to be, from our sins to set us free. This day of all is greatest still because our lives you came to fill.

From manger small to Victory rise, from cross to tomb, then Paradise. With thankful hearts we join this day, for You are Lord and King, the Way.

1

f

iSlessings on gnu and all tljDae gnu I)d1Ji bear at (Ktiristmaa!

Your virgin birth metes all in all, and to each one You gently call. And time alone shall change for naught, our Saviour dear and what He wrought.

We worship You, our glorious King, this Christmas Day! with praises sing. Born today and born to save, forever in our hearts, please stay! ® 1993 All Rights Reserved

CERe Virgin (Biriti of Cfirisi 21 IVccwnis Trutfil by Terry CU. Smith AS WE APPROACH CHRISTMAS, the virgin birth of our Lord is a precious, if to some a puzzling, truth to celebrate. While we look briefly at some questions about our Lord’s virgin birth, bear in mind such a great truth means much more than 1 say here.

■w

fiat do we mean by it? — We mean that the virgin birth of Jesus was an actual event 2000 years ago in which God by-passed part of the normal process of human conception for His own saving purpose. Mary was a virgin and Jesus was conceived in her without a human father, by the creating power of the Holy Spirit: “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you” (Luke 1:35). The Spirit of God who was involved in the creation of the universe (Genesis 1:2), who created Adam and Eve (without parents), simply, yet wonderfully, assisted with Jesus being conceived (with only one parent, Mary, involved). There are no sexual overtones in the words “come upon” and “overshadow”; they simply speak of His presence and creating power. To some, the teaching of the virgin birth might seem unbelievable. Keep in mind, though, that Mary, Joseph and the early church were not fools. Mary wonders how she will get pregnant without a man (Luke 1:34), Joseph assumes she had gotten pregnant in the “old-fashioned” way (Matthew 1:19). Both require a visit from an angel in order to accept Jesus’ virgin birth. Partly because they did accept it, we can too. It’s been said that the virgin birth of our Lord was an embarrassment to the Early Church (as it would seem to be to some churches today). If so, it is one the wider church has lived with for nearly 20 centuries. Why? It is based on the clear testimony of Scripture

(Matthew 1:18,25; Luke 2:34-35). Besides, people some­ times first blush about what they later rejoice in. (How many married couples would say that about their wed­ ding night?) In the virgin birth of our Lord, there is much to rejoice in. Might Jesus have been born our Saviour with two parents involved? Some people say yes, some say no. Perhaps there is a place for saying that Scripture is si­ lent about what God might have done (Deuteronomy 29:29); it says clearly, however, what He did do. “His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 1:18). Such a clearly stated teaching in Scripture is to be ac­ cepted. I was raised in a church that often, sadly, teaches the virgin birth is more poetry or myth than ac­ tual event. I am very grateful that for the past 15 years I have been part of the EMC, a conference of churches which teaches our Lord’s actual virgin birth. And 1 am glad the EMC is far from alone in upholding and celebrating this precious truth.

TV

bat does it say to us? — Whenever we talk about the virgin birth, one of its purposes is accomplished: it has our attention. One way God captures our attention is through a miracle or a wonder that causes us to look to Him. It certainly did for Mary and Joseph who, as Edward John Carnell wrote, for 30 years “had no other proof of Jesus’ divinity than the signs surrounding His birth” (The Case For Biblical Christianity, p. 143). The virgin birth makes us ask, what is God doing here? The virgin birth says the Person born at Christmas is unique, because the one and only true God (Deuterono­ my 6:4) became a baby in a manger (Luke 2:7). He who made the universe (Hebrews 1:2-3) with supreme and absolute power, chose to take on human nature (Philippians 2:6-7) without sin (Hebrews 4:15) in order to bring us home (Colossians 1:20-23). The Child in Matthew 1:23 is called Immanuel, “God with us.” When the shepherds knelt before the Christ-child, there was much that was not new: the earth they knelt on, the air they breathed, the stars that shone above them, the sheep they watched and the life they lived. What was new was they met the one respon­ sible for it all. God had come so close to them — and US.

A mother tucked in her young son, shut off the light and turned to go. When the boy protested, she remind­ ed him that God was with him all the time. “Yes, I know God is here,” the boy answered, “but I want someone who has a face.” Christmas shows us God PAGE 2

THE MESSENGER

. Jbcws on Cfirisl as the Son of Qod, your Saviour, gerve Xim even as you seek more faith, understanding, and inner peace to accept this truthJ^ decided we needed such a face. Jesus is “the human face of God,” as Bishop John A. T. Robinson has well said. God became a man to speak to our fears and meet our needs. Christmas is centred on Christ and He is much more than a good man, a wise teacher or rabbi, or a great re­ ligious leader. As the virgin birth shows, Jesus is unique. He is the image of the invisible God” (Colossians 1:15), who in the “exact representation of His be­ ing” (Hebrews 1:3), and has made the Father known (John 1:18). Why had He come so close? He was named Jesus (God is salvation) “because he will save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). The virgin birth reminds us that Jesus came to do for us what we cannot do for ourselves. The angels said to the shepherds, “Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11). God became a man to rescue us from sin (Romans 6:23) and restore us to the Father for our delight and fulfilment in Him (Ephesians 1:4-14). Beyond the manger lay the Sermon on the Mount, the cross, Easter morning. His ascension and His soon return — all part of His saving plan. The virgin birth of Christ reminds us how salvation is not within our power. As seminary professor Victor Shepherd has written, “We can’t be the saviour of the common pool of humanity because we are products of it.... Our Saviour must be someone whom God has given us” (italics his). The work of governments and the United Nations has a role in doing good or restrain­ ing evil; hard work by people around the world can make a difference (even if temporary). Only Christ can save us ultimately. Salvation comes to us as a baby born of a virgin in a manger. “We preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to the Gentiles.... For the foolish­ ness of God is wiser than man’s wisdom, and the weak­ ness of God is stronger than man’s strength” (1 Corinthians 1:23-25). For salvation, we must look to Him by grace through faith in His finished work (John 14:6; Acts 4:12; Romans 3:23-24; 2 Corinthians 5:21).

'tV

fiat are we to do with it? — The virgin birth is an actual event to be believed, taught and celebrated. It is a precious truth. But what if we strug­ gle with it? Must we believe in the actual virgin birth to be a Christian? The larger question is, how do we deal with our doubts as Christians? Some people have an answer: “It’s in the Bible. You either believe all of it or none of it.” That’s a position that works for some people (and has hurt others). Are we really so consistent in how we hold our beliefs? Even mature believers need to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18). I take my cue from how Jesus responded to people. In Matthew 16:15-16 Jesus asks, “Who do you say I December 7, 1994

am?” Peter gives a thrilling confession of faith, “You are the Christ.” Jesus did not interrupt at that moment and say, “Now, what about my virgin birth?” The thief on the cross requested, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus assured him, “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise (Luke 23:42-43). Our Lord did not ask, “Now what about my virgin birth?” Romans 10:9-10 says “that if you confess that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” In commitment to Christ as Saviour, we have a relationship even if we don’t have everything figured out. If you struggle with the virgin birth, place your questions in His nail-scarred hands: “A bruised reed he will not break and a smoul­ dering wick he will not snuff out” (Isaiah 42:3). As John Gresham Machen, a great defender of the Lord’s virgin birth, first said in 1930, “So today...many are troubled by the voices that are heard on all sides. It is very hard to be a Christian in these times; and there is One who knows that is very hard” (The Virgin Birth of Christ, Baker reprint, 1965, p.395). I would counsel you (as others have done in many times and places) to focus on Christ as the Son of God, your Saviour. Serve

^^Our must 6e someone whom ^od has given USJ^

-V. Sfiepfient

Him even as you seek more faith, understanding, and inner peace to accept this great truth. If bothered, though, let it be an honest doubt. Years ago in Winnipeg a man faced major surgery. He was scared but basically told me (as a student chaplain), “I believe in God, but I don’t believe in the virgin birth. I want God to be with me in the surgery, but I can’t promise I will follow Him when the surgery is over.” The virgin birth was not the issue; the man’s willingness to follow in obedience was. Christ will accept our faith and doubts; denial and excuses are another matter. Christians sang of Christ long ago: “Beyond all ques­ tion the mystery of godliness is great: He appeared in a body, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was preached among the nations, was believed on in the world, was taken up into glory” (1 Timothy 3:16). This Christmas let us focus on Christ. And may God grant that as we focus on His wonder and glory, more people will be able to rejoice that (in the words of the Apostles Creed) Jesus “was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary.” Yes, indeed, thanks be to God!

Terry Smith is the pastor of Northern Fellowship Chapel (EMC) at Creighton, Sask. He and his wife, Mary Ann, have one son. PAGE 3

Letters An Act of Reconciliation Having just returned from visiting refugee camps on the Rwanda border, I can only underscore the importance of Stan Penner’s commentary in the October 26 issue. His concem for Christian integrity is precisely the right question: Can there be authentic conversion without an expectation of discipleship? Arlyn van Enns in the same issue raises the question about MCC’s support for the “build­ ing of temples to pagan spirits.” MCC did in­ deed give a grant of $6,0C)0 to the village Tim Dao, Vietnam; $3,(300 was used to rebuild a church and $3,000 was used to rebuild a pagoda. The church and pagoda had been partially destroyed by the war. Both serve as community centres as well as places of wor­ ship. It was a controversial decision which would, in all likelihood, not be made again. But, as Earl Martin pointed out, this was a re-

Mennonite Foundation of Canada invites applications for:

STEWARDSHIP CONSULTANT This position will commence in early 1995 and is located in the Winnipeg office. Ap­ plications will be received until December 31, 1994. The position carries responsibilities in the areas of stewardship education and charitable financial planning. The individu­ al filling this position will be expected to promote biblical stewardship through con­ gregational, seminar and workshop presentations. This person will meet with individuals and organizations and assist them with charitable giving plans in rela­ tion to estate and financial planning. The person filling this position will pos­ sess good communication and interper­ sonal skills. Individuals with experience in the areas of financial planning, busi­ ness or public relations in a church con­ text should consider this opportunity. Please direct inquiries and resumes to:

quest from the local church. Staff on location thought this an appropriate response as an act of reconciliation. MCC spent much more time and money in this community to repair an ir­ rigation system. The question Arlyn raises about MCC’s character and decision-making processes are appropriate. Our committees and staff strive to be faithful to the gospel as understood by the Mennonite and Brethren in Christ tradition. We strive to be responsive to the conferences’ concerns. I regret if we appear to be

Vanderhoof

25TH ANNIVERSARY Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship is extending an invitation to come and join them in celebrating God’s faith­ fulness on February 18 and 19,1995. For more information or billeting needs, you may write or phone to: Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship P.O. Box 377 Vanderhoof, B.C. VOJ 3A0 Phone: (604) 567-9198

HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL Steinbach Bible College, Inc., an evangelical-Anabaptist College and High School, affiliated with a Mennonite con­ stituency, invites applications for the 1995/96 school year for the position of: Principal of Steinbach Christian High School The position includes: • public relations • student recruitment • some teaching The person should • be dynamic, creative & energetic • be an effective team player • have a vision for alternative, quality Christian education

A job description and more informa­ tion will be sent upon request. Please address resume and letter of applica­ tion by February 28, 1995 to:

Edgar Rempel, Manager Mennonite Foundation of Canada 4 - 117 Victor Lewis Drive Winnipeg, MB R3P 1J6 Phone: (204) 488-1985 Fax: (204) 488-1986

Stan Plett President of SBC, Inc. Box 1420 Steinbach, MB ROA 2A0

COMING EVENTS January 2-6 intersession/Anabaptist Graduate Studies Steinbach Bibte College Steinbach, Man. Phone: (204) 326-6461 January 7 Church Finances Workshop Braeside EMC Church Winnipeg, Man. Phone: (204) 326-6401 PAGE 4

January 15 EMC Missions Day of Prayer Phone: (204) 326-6401 March 17-18 SBCZTri-Conference Leadership Conference Steinbach Bible College Steinbach, Man,

Phone: (204) 326-6451 '

May 19-22

Abimdant Springs National Youth Convention Briercrest SchOois Caronport, Sask. Phone:(204) 366-4511 June 30 - July 2 Annual EMC Convention Calgary, Alberta Phone: (204) 326-6401 or (403) 273-6222

more concerned to teach than to be teachable. I believe committees and staff strive to make decisions based on Biblical faith rather than simply “human sight.” John A. Lapp, Executive Secretary Mennonite Central Committee CONTRIBUTORS: Henry and Tina Kornelson (Ridgewood) returned recently from Paraguay, where they served at the Sommerfeld Colony for six weeks. Dave Schmidt (Roseisle) and his wife, Judy, are church planters in Paraguay. Tricia Reimer (Ridgewood) and her hus­ band, Brian, are involved in Bible teaching in the African Independent Churches in Lesotho. Dave Schellenberg (Steinbach EMC) is the former editor of The Messenger. THANK YOU We express sincere thanks to everyone who submitted material for this Christ­ mas issue of The Messenger: Alfred Dueck (Morris, Man.), L. Marie Enns (Rapid View, Sask.), Eleanor Lee Gustaw (Riverton, Man.), Charlen Janzen (Burns Lake, B.C.), Caroline Loewen (Arborg, Man.), Leona Dueck Penner (Durban, South Africa), Terry Smith (Creighton, Sask.), Jonathan Toews (Victoria, B.C.) and Leanne Tonn (Kleefeld, Man.). Your contributions are appreciated. Messenger Staff

COVER: Laurel Giesbrecht lights the Advent candles at the Portage Evangelical Church (EMC). Photo by Catherine Epp (Portage la Prairie, Man.)

THE MESSENGER is the publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. Its purpose is to inform, instruct and inspire: inform con­ cerning events and activities in the denomina­ tion; instruct in godliness and victorious living; inspire to earnestly contend for the faith. Let­ ters, articles photos and poems are welcomed. Unpublished material is not returned except by request. The views and opinions expressed by the writers are theirown, and do not necessari­ ly represent the position of the Conference. Subscriptions: $7.00 per year. Members pay through their church. Manitoba residents add 7% PST, total: $7.49. All correspondence should be addressed to The Messenger, Box 1268, Steinbach, Manitoba, ROA 2A0. THE MESSENGER is published twice a month (once a month in July and August) by The Evangelical Mennonite Conference Board of Church Ministries, 440 Main Street, Box 1268, Steinbach, Manitoba, ROA 2A0. Second Class Mail; Registration Number 0591. Undelivered copies, change of address and new subscrip­ tions should be mailed to the above address. The Messenger is a member of Meetinghouse and Canadian Church Press.

Editor: Menno Hamm Assistant: Martha Kroeker Phone: 1204) 326 6401, Fax: (204) 326-1613

THE MESSENGER

Moderator's Christmas Greeting...

IMMANUEL "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" — which means "God with us" (Mat­ thew 1:23).

Isn't that wonderful? God is with us!

A Miracle Cbriatnum

No longer is there any doubt that He is concerned about us. God broke into our world. He identified with us.

by Leanne Tonn

Even if you are a non-believer, God is right beside you, wooing you to open your life to Him. That was the purpose of His coming.

When 1 was a child, we lived in Washow Bay, a northern Mennonite and Icelandic community near Hecla Island (in the boonies). It was the custom of the Woodglen #1 students to prepare an evening of enter­ tainment for family and friends to enjoy at Christmas time. We prepared numerous plays, dialogues and musical numbers, which we practiced until we could perform them backwards in our sleep. Excitement peaked a few days prior to the concert as we cleaned and decorated our classroom for the special event. Evergreen branches were ornamented with tinsel and bells. The classroom was tastefully adorned with all the fancy and glittery trappings per­ taining to a special Christmas. On the night of the concert, the snow was falling gracefully, with flakes that appeared larger than usual. It was peaceful, yet differ­ ent. An uncertain hush followed us, the four youngsters, to school that night. None of our family would be present at our performance. The entire household plans had been changed, and quietly we were sent on our way to walk the two-mile stretch to school. It was dark, but we were not bothered by that; in fact, I doubt we noticed it at all. A deep, settled peace hovered over us at a time when our home was faced with illness and “almost certain” death. All the way to school I was aware of a heavenly presence, giving us calm assurance. Doctors were not handy, and if one had been available, his services would definitely have been unafford­ able to our family. We didn’t know if Dad

would be with us when we got back home. The concert performance went well. My heart was at peace, yet I felt disturbed and restless. The class choir sang heartily. A dozen of us were stuffed into the small teacher’s office, waiting our turn to go on stage. The program seemed to move along slowly. Finally it was my turn to go on stage and do what I enjoyed — performing! When the concert came to an end, the neighbour lady (who often filled in for my mom when she couldn’t make it to special occasions) took me under her wing. She offered us a ride home! When we arrived home, the aroma of freshly baked buns welcomed us. The house was squeaky clean and the floors shone beau­ tifully. We were quickly informed that our older, married siblings had been called to Dad’s bedside and would be arriving soon. Did we wish to see Dad one last time? We

Partnership in Paraguay

tiements (5%). Presently about 36,000 Indi­ ans live in 77 communities in Paraguay’s Chaco. (Frieda Siemens Kaethler, Paraguay report­ er for Mennonite World Conference)

Cooperative work between people of differ­ ent cultures demands much empathy and planning, according to Helmut Giesbrecht, director of ASCIM (cooperative agency of In­ dians and Mennonites in Paraguay). “In our association we try to practice partnership be­ tween groups of different mentality, financial possibility and thinking. Both sides must practice daily love and willingness to cooper­ ate,” he said. The US$1.5 million budget for ASCIM comes from local Mennonite churches (38%), the government of Paraguay (21%), inter-Mennonite organizations (19%), various other sources (17%), and Indian set-

December 7, 1994

You may have already invited God to come into your life. If so, then you can rest assured that He is there. On the authority of His Word, He is now living in you. No longer do you have to beg Him to come.

This Christmas, thank Him again that He lives in you. Decide to enjoy His presence as you attend concerts and prepare for family gatherings. Look for His presence in those whom you meet through­ out the season.

While you are enjoying presents this holiday season, also enjoy His presence. God is with you! Ralph Unger

Scriptures in 2,062 Languages Scriptures were translated into 44 new lan­ guages in 1993, bringing to 2,062 the number of languages in which at least one book of the Bible can now be read. The Bible or por­ tions can now be read in 587 African lan­ guages, 513 Asian languages, 358 Central and Latin American languages, 341 Pacific lan­ guages, 189 European languages and 71 North American languages. About 6,000 lan­ guages are spoken throughout the world. The complete Bible is available in 337 languages. (Ecumenical News Service via MWC)

y

were instructed that we could stand “quiet­ ly” in the bedroom doorway for a moment and then we were to leave. As I stood in the doorway, my heart was doing double-time. Dad was often sick, but I’d never seen him this bad. Although I was young, I believed Jesus would heal my dad, and in a way He did, as Dad lived and did not die. One of the best Christmas gifts I’ve ever received was to have Dad celebrate Christmas with us that year. Jesus answered our prayers. Jesus is still alive and well, and still in the business of answering prayers for children and adults alike. Let’s make it a fun-filled and prayer-filled Christmas this year. God bless your Christmas.

SECRETARY POSITION Steinbach Bible College requires a half-time secretary. Duties include word processing, data entry, recep­ tion, mailing and assistance to the Registrar and Public Relations Coor­ dinator. Experience with computer applications, an aptitude to learn new software, good verbal and written communication skills, and organiza­ tional abilities are required. Familiar­ ity with College transcripts, GPA and FTE would be an asset. Resumes and references should be directed by De­ cember 16, 1994, to: Business Administrator Steinbach Bible College Box 1420 Steinbach, MB ROA 2A0

PAGE 5

CHURCH FINANCES WORKSHOP

STEWARDSHIP THAT COUNTS

for treasurers, finance committees and church boards (pastors are also welcome)

by Henry Friesen

Did God Invent Income Tax Deadlines? I can just hear you! “Don’t bring God into this one! He’s perfect, so how could He be involved in taxes?” OK, you can calm down. God didn’t in­ vent taxes or tax deadlines. Or did He? Let’s see. Our God is a God of order (Job 25:2; 1 Corinthians 14:40) and tax deadlines cer­ tainly help. Would your bookkeeping dead­ lines be as organized if there were no tax implications? Do tax deadlines motivate you to save (RRSPs) and make donations on a more timely basis than might otherwise be the case? Or are you ahead of the law? By now you’ve probably guessed that 1 want you to review your year-to-date giving. Many of us need reminders because our lives

These articles are prouided as a seruice of the Board of Trustees. Henry Friesen (Koh) is a char­ tered accountant at Virden. Man.

are not quite as orderly as the universe around us. Thankfully we have income tax deadlines that help. So why might you make an extra dona­ tion or two in December? 1. Because you want your Christmas to be less self-centred. 2. To follow the example of the wise men.

3. Because your giving to date is less than you had planned. 4. To get a big tax refund (43-50% can come back to you). 5. Because your church and/or conference receipts are below budget. 6. Because your income this year was higher than anticipated. 7. To be an example to your family. 8. Because you think sharing is fun. 9. Because your accountant said it was a good idea. HUS • seMmt

V

January 7,1995 Speaker: Henry Friesen, CA Braeside EMC Church 1011 Munroe Avenue Winnipeg, Man.

Fee: $10 for the first person from each church $5 for each additional person by December 15 After December 15: $15 per person Contact: EMC Office Box 1268, Steinbach, MB ROA 2A0 Phone: (204) 326-6401 Fax: (204) 326-1613

10. Because you love God. Inspired to give more before December 31? Great! Thank God for income tax deadlines!

x*"

The Steinbach Team (black) edged out the Kola squad (white) in the EMCup finals. Art Wiens presents the trophy to Mel Koop, Steinbach captain.

EMCup Celebrates Tenth Anniversary Sixteen teams participated in the 1994 EMCup Hockey Tournament, from which the Steinbach squad emerged in first place. The two-day event, on November 11 and 12, in­ cluded out-of-province teams from Fort Frances, Ont., and Wymark, Sask., the lat­ ter’s first time to compete. In action at the Mitchell and Ste. Agathe are­ nas, the teams, divided into four pools, each

played against the other three teams in their pool on Friday. The play-offs followed on Saturday. The weekend concluded with a banquet Saturday evening in celebration of EMCup’s tenth anniversary. Following the meal, Rus­ sell Loewen reminisced about the founding of the annual event. He had felt, he said, the need for people from EMC congregations to inter-

act in a more action-filled setting than conven­ tions and meetings. His idea found acceptance and in 1985 the first tournament took place. Guest speaker, Art Wiens, originally from Swift Current, Sask., related some of his ex­ periences as a Christian on the Winnipeg Blue Bomber football team. Commitment and teamwork are vital, he said, both in the Chris­ tian life and in sports. Team members and supporters expressed their appreciation to organizers Doug Friesen, Darrel Koop and Brad Kroeker.

a

Sid Reimer and Mel Koop have played in all ten EMCup Tournaments.

PAGE 6

The Tenth Anniversary Banquet was held in the EMC Church in Steinbach, Manitoba, on November 12.

THE MESSENGER

- ■.

' ’ Ml

The Church of the Nativity, showing the low doorway at the far end of the courtyard.

IMijsit to iUctblcbem by Caroline Loewen My first sight of the hills around Beth­ lehem inspired awe and amazement — these very hills were here two thousand years ago when the shepherds left their flocks to go into the village to see the new­ born Prince of Peace. This October, twenty of us, most of us relatives, with Ron and Ruth Penner as leaders, went on a tour of Israel and Egypt. After spending a week or so in northern Israel, seeing the "friendly fence" between Israel and Lebanon, walking in Jesus' foot­ steps on the Mount of Beatitudes, visiting the church commemorating the multiply­ ing of the loaves and fishes, having a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee and touring the holy sites in Jerusalem, we finally reached the “little town of Bethlehem.” I waited eagerly to see the birth place of Jesus. How I would like to see the origi­ nal site undisturbed — but that was not possible. Here were the hills, here was the village, and at last we came to a stop on a busy street. "We were told to walk into an old huge church, obviously a popular place with tourists, as many were going in and out through a low doorway. This huge building was built over what is believed to be the exact place Jesus was born. We were told it was built by Con­ stantine the Great in 332. We entered this church through a very low door; as the Christian community in 1646 blocked up most of the opening to prevent people rid­ ing in on horseback. Our guide, Shlomo, waited with us for our turn to walk down the steps into the “grotto of the Nativity.” The group ahead of us was celebrating mass, and did not want to be hurried. "We came a long way, and we have waited a long time for this," they said. It was a hot day, the interior of the church was hot, and with the candles burning, and people crowded into a small space beneath the floor of the church, the wait became a matter of endurance. When our group's turn came, I do not think any of us kissed the star in the grotto, which supposedly marks the exact spot Jesus was

born, but I was impressed with the excite­ ment of others who revered this spot so in­ tensely. To me, the most impressive thing was na­ ture and not the man-made structure. The scene here may still be the same as it was when Mary and Joseph travelled here to reach the inn. Did the shepherds come from that hill in the distance? Surely these must be the same hills, the same fields, the same environment that existed 2000 years ago. I know Jesus was not born in this church building; instead, the “King of all the Ages” was born in the humblest of places, a cattle shelter. This year, when I hear the Christmas carol "O Little Town of Bethlehem," I will have a mental picture of the surroundings of the events that are so familiar to us from the Christmas story.

with Jonathan Toews

The Christmas Inquiry

Is this the tallest candle in the world? Peter Loewen (Arborg) is dwarfed by the candle we saw in the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem.

This time when I hesitated, it was not because I didn’t understand, it was because the question caught me off guard. “How can you not know who this person is?” I said inwardly. I know Christmas is a Western tradition, I thought to myself, but the person about whom you ask is Christ­ mas, He embodies Christmas. 1 answered the question simply, in the manner it had been asked. “He is the Son of God, the one whose birth we celebrate during the Christmas season.” “Thanks,” was his reply. We went on singing “Away in a Manger,” a song I knew from memory.

It was innocent enough and I might have expected it, but it still surprised me. The story with its people, places and pronouncements is not new; it’s been around since long before the turn of the century and will be told long after the next. I’ve heard the story many times — I wouldn’t be exaggerating if I said hundreds. Jonathan and Liana Toews (Calgary) have The question wasn’t malicious, asked with returned to Canada from a two-year as­ a twist; nor was it a time-filler, intended to signment in China, teaching English at occupy an awkward moment of silence. It Shenyang Teachers’ College. was a simple “give me an answer" question. The kind children ask. “Who is the Lord Jesus?” , I asked the inquirer to repeat himself because, with his Chinese accent, I wasn’t sure I’d heard him correctly. “Ask me again,” I told him, “I’m not certain I under­ stood your question.” “Who is the Lord Jesus?” he queried a second time.

December 7, 1994

PAGE 7

C. ..-.jrtL

Receiving gifts from the students and staff at Bharat College.Lillian and Edwin Plett in their suite after the farewell service on September 14.

A Summer of

Teaching in India by Edwin Plett This summer 1 was privileged to spend eleven weeks at Bharat Bible College in Secun­ derabad, India. Lillian joined me for the last three weeks. We are deeply grateful to our church for giving us this cross-cultural experience. It is an experience we will never forget and we greatly treasure the many good friends we made among the student body and staff. “The Bharat Bible College is an indigenous evangelical faith ministry, dedicated to the training of national Christian youth for the evangelization and church planting of India” (1993-1996 Prospectus). The College offers two programs — a four-year Bachelor of The­ ology certificate and a three-year Bachelor of Divinity degree. The College is the result of a burden and vision God gave to Dr. Buraga, the founder and president. After seeking the Lord’s will in fervent prayer for a period of time in 1963, God gave him a vision of the need for a school that would train young men and women to evangelize the vast country of India. The Col­ lege opened its doors in 1969, with six stu­ dents. Today it has an enrollment of 150 students and over 90% of its graduates are involved in Christian ministry. From its beginning, the College was largely dependent on finances from outside of India and that is still true today. Most of its opera­ tional and expansion funds come from friends and donors in the United States and Cana­ da. A good percentage of these funds are channelled to the College through Christian Aid Mission. My responsibilities were to teach during the week and preach on Sundays. 1 preached at least once every Sunday and often twice, ex­ cept for the Sunday 1 spent in Calcutta. I had the privilege of speaking in a number of vil­ lage churches. 1 was shocked at the poverty in which many village people live, but im­ pressed with the strong, simple, uncomplicat­ ed faith of many of these people. When they attend church on Sunday they are not ruled by the clock. A minister who

PAGE 8

speaks for only 20 or 25 minutes is not con­ sidered to be much of a preacher. There it is expected that a sermon will be between 45 and 60 minutes in length. If 1 did not arrive on time at a village, that was no problem, the congregation would keep on singing till 1 ar­ rived and when I arrived late they would still anticipate a full-length sermon. After the serv­ ice many people would come up to me and want me to pray for them, even though they couldn’t understand English. After a while 1 would have to break off these prayers because there seemed to be no end to the number of people who came for prayer. The village churches were frugally furnished — a small pulpit, sometimes a makeshift one, and just a few chairs. The people would slip out of their thongs at the door, walk in barefoot and sit down on a mat placed on the stone floor. I was very happy for this exposure to the village churches. There are no circum­ stances in which God cannot build His church. It was good to be in the classroom again. I found the students very respectful and gener­ ally eager to learn. My biggest problem was the language. Instruction was in English but many students had a very weak understand­ ing of the language. After the first test I gave them, 1 realized how poorly I had communi­ cated when 29 out of 42 students flunked. At that point 1 changed my style and spoke very slowly and clearly and things improved. At the end 1 believe only two students failed. I was impressed by the commitment to evangelism and church planting evidenced by the students and faculty. It was not uncom­ mon to hear students say that after gradua­ tion they wanted to plant a church. That was not a presumptuous or an over-zealous state­ ment as it might be perceived over here. When they go out in church planting they do not have a sending church to support them. They are on their own. Support that they may get, both morally and financially, comes from the College. Dr. Buraga often counsels with these aspiring pastors, preaches in their churches, and from time to time may dip into his own pocket to help a struggling pastor financially. The College has a church on campus and it is sometimes difficult to distinguish between the ministry of the College and that of the church. Church attendance is compulsory for the students and the church’s outreach into

the surrounding villages is through the stu­ dents of the College. They run 21 Sunday schools, sponsor an orphanage of 60 children and a private school, and give monthly sup­ port to 17 widows. Students receive a handson experience of Christian ministry that seeks to minister to the whole person. Lillian and I have come home challenged and encouraged by our experience in India. God is building His church through the com­ mitted and humble ministry of Christian be­ lievers. We have come back with a strong desire to be faithful and true in the church­ planting ministry that He has committed to us.

Rev. Edwin Plett has been the pastor of the Prairie Rose EMC Church in Landmark, Man., since 1976. He and his wife. Lillian, have five grown children.

SUMMER MISSION *95 in northern Alberta and British Columbia

July 1 to August 20,1995 •WHO? Ten young people, led by Ken Zacharias, in various types of ministries and work projects. • WHERE? The EMC churches in Grande Prairie, High Level and La Crete in Alberta; Burns Lake and Vanderhoof in B.C. • WHAT? Develop commitment and gifts in service: camp, VBS, programs, projects, interact with other youth. •COST? $500 each, which covers orientation, travel, meal and lodging costs. WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Write or calf to;

Evangelical Mennonite Conference Box 1268, Steinbach, MB ROA 2A0 Phone:(204)326-6401 Fax; (204) 326-1613

THE MESSENGER

Missions J if-'

Jacob and Eiizabeth Heinrichs with six of their 16 children. They hosted Henry and Tina Kornelsen PARAGUAY

Come Over and Help Us Seeking a Deeper Spiritual Life Benny and Esther Goertzen were invited sometime ago by a group of people on Som­ merfeld Colony in East Paraguay to assist them with singing, school and Bible teaching. The Goertzens accepted the invitation and during the past year or two have spent time with the group. This was in addition to their responsibilities with the radio ministry. Last spring, when the Goertzens were plan­ ning to come to Canada for a six-month furlough, the Sommerfeld group invited a senior minister couple to assist them for up to six weeks. The Board of Missions respond­ ed by sending Henry and Tina Kornelsen, formerly pastoral couple in the Ridgewood and Fort Frances EMC churches, for a six-week assignment in early fall. The following is a report by the Kornelsens and a letter from Jacob Heinrichs, leader of the new church on Sommerfeld: It was a very worthwhile experience to fel­ lowship with the Sommerfeld group of be­ lievers from September 15 to October 31. The new church has chosen to be called Evangeli­ cal Mennonite Church. We were royally welcomed into their fellow­ ship. The former bishop of the Sommerfeld

Jacob Heinrichs with the family pet parrot.

December 7, 1994

Terrere time at the Heinrichs’ home in Sommerfeld Colony, Paraguay.

Mennonite Church in East Paraguay, Jacob Heinrichs, and 132 other members, were meeting in a machine shed for serv­ ices. Their new building should be finished by now. The new church group is seeking a deeper spiritual life through Bible studies, youth ministries and involvement in mis­ sions. It was my privilege to share the Word with them in thirteen services during the six weeks. The attendance was between 200 to 300 a night. It was encouraging to see them grow in their openness to share testimonies and prayer requests. They now have a Friday youth evening and a sing­ song, which Benny and Esther Goertzen started. The Monday night Bible study was also well attended. At the farewell they arranged for us, with about 350 in attendance, there was a repeated request from them to continue to pray for them. They feel the need to grow, start Sunday school and upgrade their schools. We were also encouraged by the work of our EMC missionaries in Paraguay — not easy, but rewarding. Remember to pray for them. We thank the Board of Missions for the support and all of your prayers. Henry and Tina Kornelsen

Tina Kornelsen with Mr. and Mrs. Dave Schroeder and daughter, their hosts for three days. Mr. Schroeder is an active Gideon.

October 27. 1994 Evangelical Mennonitc Conference Steinbach, Manitoba, Canada

Dear Brothers and Sisters in the Lord: We greet you with I Corinthians 1:3; “Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” As bishop of the Evangelischen Mennoniten Gemeinde in Colony Sommerfeld, Paraguay, 1 want to write you expressing the church’s appreciation for your response in sending Henry and Tina Kornelsen. For almost six weeks they have accompanied us with the Word of God and much love during the new beginning of our church. We have learned to appreciate their service very much. Their fellowship during this time has drawn us as a church closer to one another as we gathered every Sunday and Monday evening and were instructed on important topics. We sang a lot, prayed, heard testimonies and wit­ nessed decisions — a blessing to us. These evenings with the Kornelsens will be missed but not forgotten. The buds of love will not permit themselves to die easily. We give honour to our great God in the name of Jesus because all that helps in the building of God’s kingdom is from Him and for Him. We are very thankful to our loving God for His daily guidance which we have ex­ perienced. In the future we do not want to be without Him. He has called His church to stand in His service. He has also said that the gates of hell will not overcome the church. His work affirms that we need not doubt how good it is to have such a Leader. Praise His name! May the same Lord be with you with His great love, power, victory and blessing in your church work. The Lord keep you and us all from now to eternity. Amen. We remain yours in the bonds of love, Jacob and Elizabeth Heinrichs, with family and church PAGE 9

Conference participants at the Bible Society headquarters. Ntate Monyatsi is at the right.

AFRICA

Getting to Know God Thankful for Bible Teachers We have the privilege of being seconded to an organization of indigenous churches (AIC) churches, the Africa Federal Church Council, here in Lesotho. They have appointed a com­ mittee to head the Bible teaching. Each mem­ ber of this committee has been an encouragement to us but none more so than the chairman, Ntate Monyatsi. We would like to introduce him to you. Ntate (father/Mr.) Stephen Machobane Monyatsi has a deep concern for the leaders and members of the churches with whom we work. As a pastor in a Moshoeshoe Berean Bible Readers Church, he agrees with their founder, who pointed out that if you read the Bible, you can know God. “The work of Bi­ ble teaching is so important because our churches are weak in this area,” he states. “People are being called by the Spirit of God to preach but they are not learning the Bible. It is our responsibility to encourage the lead­ ers in this so that they can teach their mem­ bers what God truly says.” Ntate Monyatsi was born in 1926. He was the last born of four children and belongs to the Batau (lion) clan. (Does this make him related to the Loewens in Canada?) In 1942 he travelled to Italy to help in the war effort. He got married when he was 29; his wife passed away in 1991. In order to support his family, he worked in the mines of South Afri­ ca for many years. When he came home, he became a farmer and sold corn, sheep and goats to pay for his eight children’s school fees. As a pastor, he receives no support from the church, although members may bring him food. He relies on his gardens for food to eat, but it is very difficult when there is no rain. The indigenous churches have faced a lot of discrimination. When Ntate Monyatsi want­ ed to go to a main church’s Bible school in 1974, he needed the assistance of his church leaders to be accepted. Since his church was a branch off of this main church, he received permission to attend. He also faced discrimiPAGE 10

nation in the classroom. One day the lecturer said that the Moshoeshoe Church believed in ancestor worship because every year they went to the grave site of their founder and prayed. Ntate Monyatsi denied that the mem­ bers of his church did such a thing and most of the fellow students accepted his word. Children of members of indigenous churches have also found it difficult to get schooling. In the past, the schools were run by the three main churches in Lesotho and since the children had to list their church af­ filiation on the application form, they were often passed over in favour of children of the church running the school. In 1987, the Moshoeshoe Church where Ntate Monyatsi is pastoring, opened a primary school, which has

Ntate Monyatsi is the chairman of the Bible Teaching Committee.

200 students and seven teachers. It is open to all children in their community, and Ntate Monyatsi is the manager. Ntate Monyatsi is very thankful to the Mennonite churches in North America for send­ ing missionaries to them to assist in the Bible teaching. “We are very glad that the churches of Canada have had good teaching of God and that they have sent someone to show us how people in Canada know God. We are thank­ ful to the Mennonite churches for sending young people who find it easier to learn Sesotho and can teach the people in their own language. Please pray for us because we need to know the word of God.” Tricia Reimer

PARAGUAY

The Cost of Following Jesus What Would I Do? What is my faith worth to me? What does it mean to deny self and take up the cross daily to follow Jesus? Why did he say, “If anyone comes to me and does not hate...his wife and children...he cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:26)? Aurelio is a new Christian who lives about four kilometres from the church where he fel­ lowships. When we had a three-night cam­ paign at their church last month, he invited me for similar meetings at his home. We agreed on October 14-16. 1 made the one-hour trip from Pastoreo to his house on the 14th. When 1 arrived, only his wife, Elva, was home. She was quick to let me know that she did not approve of this “new religion” that Aurelio had chosen. If he insisted on continuing with this, she would take the children and go back to her mother’s. Conveniently, her mother was there to “res­ cue” her daughter. Soon Aurelio arrived and I suggested to him that since the atmosphere was so heavy, perhaps we should cancel our plans. 1 didn’t want to be the cause of a marriage break-up. But Aurelio was determined, “If I would listen to her, 1 would never do anything.” So I stayed — and Elva left.

We had the campaign, and I “batched” with Aurelio. Most of the neighbours seemed to know that there was a battle going on, and they were definitely not on our side. I tried to make some visitations but could not get much beyond mere formalities. The other Christians came, however, and gave lots of encourage­ ment with food, prayers and their presence. During the day, Elva would come and in­ vestigate the situation and leave again without comment. The hurt was obvious in Aurelio’s eyes; he was bearing a heavy burden. After the services, when we asked people to come forward for prayer, Aurelio was there. Prayer and tears came freely. The Spirit was at work, drawing us closer to Him, and draw­ ing others to repentance. Praise the Lord, the last night there were four people who respond­ ed to the invitation to receive Christ as Lord and Saviour! And one of them was Aurelio’s brother! There was great rejoicing together that night and it was near midnight before we went our separate ways rejoicing. Didn’t Jesus also say, “And everyone who has left...father or mother or children...for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life” (Matthew 19:29)? David Schmidt

THE MESSENGER

I

Messenger News FUND-RAISING PROJECT Leamington, Ont.: In a previous article we reported that our congregation has purchased a four-acre lot on which to build a church. Presently we are working on getting plans and funds for the project. On Thanksgiving Mon­ day a sign was put up to let the community know where we are planning to build. One of the fund-raising projects for the past three years has been selling fresh Ontario ap­ ples in the Steinbach area. This year fourteen people gathered at Diedrich Wiebe’s orchard to pick and pack apples. Projects like this help to draw us closer together and give more peo­ ple a sense of ownership. The Reimers took the apples along to Manitoba when they went for the October ministerial meeting in Strat­ ton. Donated help and vehicles have made this fund-raising project another success. Bernice

i J

»

On Thanksgiving Day a group of men put up the sign and did some other work on the site of the new church building. Left to right: Jake Dyck, John Berg, Frank Berg, Abe Klassen (painted the sign), John Enns (chairman of the Building Committee) and Abe Berg.

Barkman (Blumenort) and Cheryl Harder (Grunthal) are to be thanked for their hard

work of taking orders and distributing the ap­ ples. (Maybe next year you too can help our church by buying Leamington apples!) Gladwin and Jean Plett were in our midst from October 31 to November 6 for a week of meetings. By the end of the week the “dome” at the school where we meet just couldn’t take the crowds. Fortunately, the school had another room which was a little bigger. People were encouraged in their Chris­ tian walk, recommitments were made and several came forward for salvation. Night af­ ter night the children listened attentively as Mrs. Plett told a children’s version of Pilgrim's Saturday, September 24, fourteen people from the Leamington church gathered to pick and Progress. pack apples. p^gy jjggj. gg gur church grows numerically, --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- we will also increase in spiritual stature. Peter Reimer young son Peter. Artifacts kept both adults SHARING THE VISION and children interested as we learned new We thank God for each of the missionaries Endeavour, Sask.: On Sunday, October things about their culture. Helen Kornelsen also reported to us that who visited us that weekend and broadened 23, three young couples indicated their desire to dedicate themselves and their little ones to night about her earlier teaching ministry in Be- our view of missions by sharing their vision the Lord. It was a joy for us to witness the lize and her more recent role as teacher for with us. Margaret Moorhead event and to have in our midst grandparents the missionary children in Caaguazu, and great-grandparents of the three little ones. Paraguay. The following report was submitted by Sara Kent Dueck shared Thiessen: with us on Sunday We experienced another excellent mission morning about their conference in our chapel during the Novem­ ministry among the in­ ber 4-6 weekend. It began on Friday with Ben­ ner city youth, many of ny and Esther Goertzen. They informed us of native origin. Our their work in radio ministries in Caaguazu, hearts ached for these Paraguay, in an interesting way through their kids who so desperate­ report, slides and children’s feature. We ly need to be loved and thoroughly enjoyed the Spanish-Paraguayan accepted, who need songs they sang accompanied by the accor­ true friends, homes and a caring family, dion and guitar. Saturday night we were doubly blessed by things we take so having two missionaries with us. Marianne much for granted. He Fast shared with us the Bible translation minis­ shared his vision of es­ try she and her husband. Les, have in Papua tablishing further work Parent/Child Dedication at the Endeavour church on October 23. Lett New Guinea. Her slide presentation was ex­ education facilities and to right: Pastor Lome Moorhead, Duane and Sharon Karcha and Na­ than, Neil and Elfreda Fenske and Tricia, Brad and Carol Steppan and cellent and especially appealing to children be­ some form of housing Jay. cause the narration on tape was done by their for the homeless.

December 7, 1994

PAGE 11

Dennis Thiessen, Debbie Sawatzky, Sharon Karcha, Carol Steppan and Willie Jakubowski (missing) led the congregational singing at the Region 3 conference.

Free Servant from SBC ministered in music.

Region Three Conference The annual Fall Conference of the Region Three churches was held on Sunday, October 30, at the Ukrainian Hall in Endeavour. The weather cooperated and provided good travel­ ling for the approximately 150 people who came from each of our six churches. Our Conference theme, “Peering Through the Surface of Each Other,” dealt with the fa­ mily and parenting. Our speaker for the day was Al Friesen, pastor of the St. Vital church. He spoke three times during the day. The morning’s message was “Our Kids Didn’t Come with a Manual — Or Did They?” using Ephesians 4:30-32 as the basis. One thing which stood out was the statement “The best parents cannot do everything to allow a child to attain his utmost but they will allow him to be exposed to examples that will do so.” After a time of fellowship over bag lunches, the afternoon session began. The topic was “Adolescence, is it a Dark Tunnel for All of Us?” (Deuteronomy 6:6-9 and Ephesians 6:1-4). Al reminded us of the needs of chil­ dren: mental, physical, social, psychological and spiritual. As parents (and grandparents) we were reminded to meet our children where they arc, to love and listen to them and to learn from them. During this session. Brad Steppan and Neil Fenske of Endeavour met with those ages 10 to teens in the school gym, while the younger ones met in the church basement with

Al Friesen, the conference speaker

Laura Thiessen of Birch River. A delicious turkey supper was served by the ladies of the Endeavour church. The evening session followed in the Fellowship Chapel. The scripture for this session was Galatians 5:16-26 and the topic was “Unity? What Hap­ pens if I’m Right and He’s Dead Wrong?” Throughout the day we enjoyed the ministry of “Free Servant,” a music team from SBC, who provided special numbers at all three serv­ ices, as well as for the offertories. For us this group had a special bonus since we became reacquainted with three of the members of the Summer Missions Team who spent time in each of our churches in 1993. Don Thiessen and his wife, Minna, were with us for the day and Don gave us a report

What to choose — an important decision at mealtimes!

of some of the recent developments within our Conference and put in a plug for the annual convention next July in Calgary. Fred Buhler presented the mission projects which had been chosen for this yccir. After the expenses of the day were taken care of, the offerings were divided equally between the pro­ vision of VHF radios for missionaries in Paraguay and assisting the AMPE Native Drop-in Centre in Kamsack with needed roof repairs. Margaret Moorhead

\

Children and adults alike appreciated the children’s story told by ’ Maury Friesen.

PAGE 12

Lunch — a time for food and fellowship.

THE MESSENGER

♦

»

A Parent/Child Dedication service took place at the High Level church on Oc­ tober 16. Left to right: Peter and Susan Penner with Courtney, Harvey and Jack­ ie Siemens with Kirsten, Andrew and Angie Penner with Michael, Peter and Shelly Christianson with Austin, Troy and Sandy Sebastian with Steven and Jeffrey, Martin and Judy Penner with Jayde.

ELDER COMMISSIONED

High Level, Alta.: Greetings from High Level! On October 2 we held our annual Thanksgiving potluck and, due to our having outgrown our church basement, it was held at the High Level Friendship Centre again. It was a fun afternoon of delicious food, visit­ ing and games. Two weeks later, on October 16, our morn­ ing worship service was made rather special by the addition of two important events: Parent/Child Dedication: As you can guess by the picture, our worship services ar­ en’t always conducted in an atmosphere of quietness, and our Sunday school classes are bursting at the seams, but I can’t imagine a church without children. Not only are they cute and interesting, but the Bible tells us they are a gift and a blessing from God, and Jesus con­ firmed this by showing special love and care for them and by making unique references about them. That is why we consider it im-

portant for Christian parents to publicly dedi­ cate themselves to raising their children God’s way. It also gives the congregation a chance to respond and promise to do what they can to help lead them to Christ and to be encouragers in their lives. Elder Commissioning Service; As well that morning, we held a commissioning serv­ ice for our newly elected elder, Harvey Sie­ mens, and his wife, Jackie. This young couple has been in our midst for about three years, and their desire to serve the Lord has been evident in their commitment to the church and in their willingness to use their gifts and be in­ volved. As we remember this commissioning and how the leadership gathered around to pray over them, let’s be reminded to continue to do this in spirit by sunounding them, and the rest of the leadership couples, with prayer and en­ couragement, for their job is not an easy one. Any time one is in a more “watched” role, Sa­ tan seems to work that much harder to get

Christmas is usually a time of family gatherings, of laughter and of fellowship with friends. In my home, though, things were different. Like other children, every Christmas my eyes shone with an­ ticipation of what was under the tree for me. I remember watch­ ing with delight as my mother decorated the Christmas tree. My small hands itched to help, so Mom gave me the unbreakable ornaments to hang on the branches. I remember my mother wrapping gifts secretly in their bedroom, while I tried to peek beneath the door. She would then put the wrapped gifts under the tree to tease us. With eager eyes I waited for the big day. I also remember watching in fascina­ tion the icicles on the tree as they twinkled in the light. Late on Christmas Eve I’d awake and sneak over to the tree. I would touch the pretty paper, marvel at all the gifts and the loveliness of the tree, even in the dark. With great difficulty I would make myself go back to bed, thinking I’d never sleep. Before I knew it, though, I would hear Mom stirring in the kitchen, putting the turkey into the oven. Then she would go and turn on the Christmas tree lights. I remember springing out of bed and going to sit by the tree. There my mother, my brother and 1 would wait for Dad. Mom would call him, but he wouldn’t come, so we would open our stockings without him. Even in my excitement I remember seeing Mom blinking quick­ ly as she tried to hold back tears of disappointment. Then we would wait again for Dad. When Father did appear, he became angry that we hadn’t waited for him. He would make Mom cry December 7, 1994

Baptism at the High Level church on August 31. Left to right: Pastor Richard Klassen and his wife, Kathy; April Wieler, Derek Klassen, David Klassen. It was encouraging to hear the testimo­ nies of these young people. God bless you richly!

Pastor Richard and Kathy Klassen with our new elder, Harvey Siemens, and his wife, Jack­ ie.

them to fall, because in doing so, often many others will fall with them. So, let’s all be reminded to pray for our leaders, that they’ll stand strong on the rock of God’s truth, that they will be led by the Spirit and convey the wisdom of the Almighty God as they preach, teach and make their many decisions. God bless them. Gert Knelsen

and would be miserable through­ out the entire day. I wish I could say I had one Christmas where my father par­ ticipated normally, but he didn’t. Every one was spoiled by him staying in bed until after the stockings were finished. As the years passed, disappointment gave way to anger, and anger to hatred for my father. He never remembered my birthday, he didn’t know how old I was, and he never told me he loved me, unless under the influence of alcohol. Even after I was married my father never participated in my life. Not once did he try to write a letter or give me a phone call. I was really hurt by his indifference toward me. I spent much of my childhood trying to please Daddy. I never succeeded; noth­ ing was ever good enough. I think many fathers don’t realize how important it is for them to participate in all the events of their children’s lives. (The same goes for mothers, too.) Christmas should be a time of laughter and fun. A child should not have to deal with violence, tension or anger in the home. It saddens my heart, knowing there will be children crying on Christmas Day. Though I was brought up in an abusive environment, God has shown me that I can have a new start in Him. It is possible to have a complete life again, in spite of a broken family. God can heal a broken heart and give comfort to those He loves. “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; He delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the broken­ hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:17-18). I have received a Father for Christmas, and He is my God.

PAGE 13

Z.

7

Main speaker Jean Bareness (left) with Lore­ na Reimer.

J

Region 8 Women’s Day planning committee (left to right): Donalda Friesen (Blumenort), Lore­ na Reimer, Chairperson (Kleefeld), Luella Hiebert (Ridgewood), Laural Ann Plett (Landmark).

WOMEN'S I Steinbach, Man.: Soi registered for the third Regii Day, with Jean Barsness as featured guest speaker. Sessions took place in the Steinbach E. M. Church on November 5, beginning with registration and a continental breakfast. Participants had a wide selection of work­ shops to choose from: “Spiritual Gifts’’ (Gail Thiessen), “Priorities vs. Self-indulgence” (Flo Friesen), “Hindrances to Service” (Anna Pen­ ner), “Stories of Women in the Bible” (Mary Lou Driedger), “Historical Perspectives on Women in the EMC” (Elizabeth Plett), “Panel on Prayer” (led by Darlene Olfert), “Sharing Christ on the Job” (Doris Penner). Workshops had been planned to relate to the theme of how inner beauty has a positive effect on our impact on the world around us. Special music was brought by “Shiyrah,” a singing group. D. K. Schellenberg

Some 175 women attended the Women’s Day.

'* a

.

The group “Shiyrah” sang at the Region 8 Women’s Day.

L 4

1

■i

1

Darlene Olfert (standing) led a panel on “Prayer.”

REMINDERS FROM GOD’S WORD Lowe Farm, Man.: Our annual Thanksgiv­ ing supper, which was held on Saturday, Oc­ tober 8, this year, continues to be a well-attended function. For some folks it was their first appearance in our meeting place. Af­ ter the delicious meal, we enjoyed a sing-song, followed by a film, “Cross Currents,” em­ phasizing the importance of obedience — chil­ dren to camp rules and everyone to the claims of Christ. Neil and Mary Martens, a couple who were baptized upon their profession of faith while residents in Albert City, Iowa, and accepted as members of the Lowe Farm EMC at that time, have moved to Walhalla, North Dako-

PAGE 14

I

I

Gail Thiessen conducted a workshop on “Spiritual Gifts.”

ta, where Neil is employed by Lome Reimer in the manufacturing trade. They are within relatively easy driving distance to come to our Sunday morning services. From October 16-23 Gladwin and Jean Plett ministered to us in message and story. The timely reminders from God’s Word and the practical lessons in the stories had every­ one’s attention. Three of the evenings had spe­ cial emphases — Family Night, Youth Night and Missions Night. The commitment to dis­ cipleship, particularly as it relates to family liv­ ing, was the highlight of the final evening. The pull of the family bond has again been noticeable with the absence of several faces. Visiting relatives in Mexico at the time of this writing are Lisa and Mary Reimer and the John

Fehr family. The latter were accompanied by their parents. All plan to be back in time for the Christmas season preparations. The Benny Goertzens, missionaries in Paraguay, gave an interesting account of their ministry on Sunday evening, October 30. Since some of our parishioners have close ties with East Paraguay, this created added in­ terest in coming out for the occasion. Biological expansion is always an exciting experience. Benny and Mary Petkau had the joy of welcoming their second son, Colin Ray, on November 7. Because of some respirato­ ry problems, the baby stayed in the hospital about a week longer than the mother. J. Loewen THE MESSENGER

I

Come to the Stall by Alfred Dueck The man declined to go to church. Even though ’twas Christmas eve. His eyes were staring at her dress. As she prepared to leave. “I should not go, I have no faith, ’Tis hypocritical, you know.” Then slowly she put on her coat; “But I must go, yes I must go.”

She left, he stayed, then warmed his feet. And listened to the crackling flame. He read about the news today. And of the latest football game. He nigh near fell asleep, upon his seat; But noises wakened him again. He finally rose to see; what could be. That racket on the window pane. In awe he saw the swirling snow. The wind was whipping everywhere. So many birds had lost their way. To flounder wildly in despair. So he got dressed to help his friends. The feathered flock could see no more; He flicked his switch to light the way. Then opened wide the old barn door.

He tried to shoo them toward the warmth. He tried to lure them, tried to call; They failed to trust his good intent. He could not force them to the stall. Ah, but they were scared of him! They lacked all faith and blindly flew; Some died, some vanished in the night. Where once so many, now so few.

He hears some music in the air, As carollers sing and church bells ring. His trickling tears begin to freeze, “Good tidings we have come to bring.” He sinks into the snow and weeps; Just like the birds he did not trust. “O come, all ye faithful,” he hears as he prays. And this night, another unjust, became just.

ARE WE AVAILABLE?

Ridgewood, Man.: “Am I available?” That was the question each one of us had to wres­ tle with during our missions conference. God wants our total commitment. Then He will lead us step by step to the place He has ap­ pointed for us, be it on foreign soil or right here at home. Marvin Thiessen of Janz Team Ministries challenged us evening after evening to search our hearts to determine where our allegiance lies. “Great things are happening,” he said. “God is mightily at work in many parts of the world. In Asia, an average of 300 new churches eire established every day. In Brazil, we had an average of ten people saved per meeting. People are hungry for the Word.” That sounds very encouraging. The bad news is that there are not nearly enough workers available to take advantage of the wide open doors. “Pray ye therefore the Lord of the har­ vest, that he will send labourers into his har­ vest” (Matthew 9:38). December 7, 1994

Every night we had special reports, some­ times accompanied with slides, acquainting us with the various fields of service. Our speak­ ers were Lester Olfert, Henry and Tina Kornelsen, Helen Kornelsen, Don Thiessen, Harold and Alfrieda Fast and Ken and Vai Zacharias. We heard reports from our local outreach programs, Bible camps and VBS as well. One night Bert and Liz Genaille, a na­ tive couple from Nipawin, favoured us with music and testimonies. After Bert’s comple­ tion of Bible school, they intend to go into fulltime missionary service, own ministering to their people. (Bert used to be Pastor Bill’s stu­ dent at Cormorant many years ago.) The children had their own mini-conference in the dining hall. At our ladies’ meeting on Wednesday morn­ ing, Vai Zacharias gave us a close look at the numerous adjustments facing foreign mission­ aries — culture, climate, language, etc. Our prayer time included women internationally.

as well as our own missionaries. The attendance at our conference was good and the response heartwarming. Our Silver Set enjoyed a very special gettogether on November 17. We had invited the Braeside Reenagers and the Blumenort Gold­ en Agers to join us for a time of fellowship. The Keenage Choir and musical group had prepared a delightful program on the theme “Praise Him for His Mighty Acts.” Their former pastor, John Stoesz, directed the choir and favoured us with a short devotional. Henry and Evelyn Wiens, in an entertaining manner, told us about the “glue” that keeps their mar­ riage together — the main ingredients being TLC (Tender Loving Care, or Trust, Loyalty and Caring). I must add that we liked your serenades, Henry — seniors need some romance, too (part of the glue!). Later all twelve of us renewed friendships around the table, enjoying delicious soup and pie. Thank you all for coming. You were a real encouragement to us. Please come again. Rosaline Loewen

PAGE 15

r

w

T Bridget and Derek Edwards and children, Me­ gan and Calum

PASTORAL RENEWAL

Fisher Branch, Man.: New faces in our church are those of a missionary family from the United Kingdom. Derek Edwards, his wife, Bridget, and their children, Megan and Calum, have been in Canada for two years. They worked previously with the Shantymen at Hilbre Bible Camp in the northern Interlake. They moved to the Fisher Branch area in Sep­ tember to begin a new phase in their mission work. The new work, “Christian Ministries,” is a non-denominational faith ministry. At the heart of the ministry is a concern that Cana­ da evangelicalism is losing the gospel. “The gospel was rediscovered at the time of the Reformation after 1000 years of corruption,” says Derek Edwards, “but today the gospel is being attacked as never before. Liberal theol­ ogy tried in the early 20th century. The response was fundamentalism. But today the gospel is being attacked from within the socalled evangelical community. Neo­ evangelicalism, psychology and antinomianism, among others, are busy corrupting the

colleges and churches. “The result is growing confusion as to what the Christian message is and what the Chris­ tian life requires. Christian Ministries is com­ mitted to answering both of these questions with clarity and conviction on behalf of the ’old-fashioned gospel’ of the Reformation — Scripture alone, by grace alone, through faith alone, for God’s glory alone.” Through public ministry, individual counsel and personally directed study, the new minis­ try intends to help believers and unbelievers come to an intelligent understanding and con­ viction of the truth once delivered to the saints. Derek became a Christian 23 years ago. When he was 15 he joined a boys weightlift­ ing and bodybuilding club, which was held in the hall of an evangelical church and run by one of the deacons. They became friends and four years later he became a Christian and joined the church. Derek says, “1 was simply amazed that in the Bible God had spoken to us! It seemed to me at that time, and indeed still does, that I needed to examine everything I had ever thought or learned in the light of that revela­ tion. Twenty-three years of pretty steady study, a stay at one of the best Bible colleges in Britain, mission work and ordination in my own country find me today in Canada. 1 had been thinking of coming here to minister the gospel for more than 20 years!” Derek met Bridget at the evangelical church when she was just 13. Bridget, although not from a Christian home, had attended the Sun­ day school from an early age and became a Christian at age 12. They married when Bridget was 18 and moved to their first country home in Kent, England. Three years later they moved 700 miles north to Scotland to their first cattle and sheep farm in the Orkney Islands. The ups and downs of farming eventually led to Bible col­ lege and then into mission work. In the eight­ een months before coming to Canada, the

JPor

Edwards were involved in helping families who had been wrongly accused of ritual sex abuse. But that is another story. Derek Edwards

The following article, “Pastoral Renewal at the Billy Graham School of Evangelism,” was written by Edward and Leona Friesen, our pastoral couple: We had just turned off the #1 Highway into a steep climb and already the car was shift­ ing down into a lower gear. Hey, this is steep. Will our old Ford make it up this icy road? But before long the beautiful Chateau appeared. Other vehicles were fast arriving and soon we were inside forming long line-ups at the regis­ tration desks. Will we see any familiar faces? Oh yes, look over there: Murray and Linda Vader from Pelly and familiar faces from Pleasant Valley, Wymark and other EMC churches. Yes, folks arrived all the way from New Brunswick to Vancouver, from the Northwest Territories, and from 25 states south of the border — a total of 650 pastors and pastors’ wives, seminary students and others, from 75 different denominations. All came with one singular goal — to experience renewal, recommitment, learning and sharing. Perhaps one of the greatest highlights was the 8 a.m. quiet time up in the Victoria Din­ ing Room overlooking beautiful Lake Louise. What a breathtaking window on the greatness and majesty of God! By 8:30 singing began with the 650-voice congregation. That alone was worth the sacrifice of the long trip up! The five plenary sessions and two workshops daily gave us a lot of material to process. By the end of the entire event, two major themes seemed imperative for a fruitful ministry; namely, servanthood attitudes and a fervent prayer life. Thank you to the Lowell Berry Foundation for scholarships and to our own churches for supporting us in prayer. Rose Plett

(irtinddttMihier

by Leona Dueek Penner This is (.’.hristmas, my little one, may y<nt rest your sweet head on a warm pillow. May yon sleep smoothly in a quiet star*lit room, your dreams undisturbed by the mntraur of lowing cattle or the sound of city traffie. And, oh, my dear one, may all your Christmas travels be well-planned (passports in order, rooms booked in advance)

no fear-filled escapes from crazed kings at midnight, no scrounging for food on the run PAGE 16

no bursts of gunfire in the towjisfnps no sound of weeping In Rwanda ... Surely, my little tme, iCs right to wish yon a safe journey even if yon do miss some of the bursts of glory, and have fewer things to treasure in your heart;

What value the brightness of a single star the peace and allcihla songs of angels the joy of simple shepherds the wise men bringing gifts . . . if little ones like you still can’t sleep and dream at Christmas?

(J'rir Vanessa) THE MESSENGER

t

THOMAS JAMES HEINRICHS 1976-1994

Thomas James Heinrichs was born on Au­ gust 25, 1976, and died in a tragic traffic ac­ cident, along with his dear cousin Rachel Kaylani Heinrichs and ! his friend Michael •"*!■■■■ Scott Cameron McCul- ,j lough, on August 23, E 1994. He leaves to mourn | w his parents, Jim and J -J Marj Heinrichs; sisters Jen, Kate and Sara, and brother Bill of Ms Rosenort; his grand­ parents Syd and Helen Reimer (Rosenort) and Dick and Phyllis Heinrichs (Morden); his great­ grandmother, Marie (P.J.B.) Reimer (Rosenort) and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Tom was predeceased by his precious cou­ sin and friend Jonathan Wayne Heinrichs on February 23,1994, six months to the day be­ fore his own death. A funeral service for Tom was held at the Rosenort Fellowship Chapel on Friday, Au­ gust 26, at 2:00 p.m. His remains were lov­ ingly buried by the hands of his family and closest friends. A Tribute to Tom Our son Thomas James was bom in the same season in which he died — under the harvest moon. I laboured long and hard to be delivered of our firstborn son. As our hearts now break with grief, so were they filled with joy and wonder and love at his birth eighteen years ago. By the time Tom went to kindergarten, we were convinced he was a genius — the cutest, smartest, best behaved child on earth. Tom became involved in athletics early. He took swimming lessons, participated in all school sports and played hockey. In his first real hockey game, Tom scored a goal in the first minute of the first period of the game. We were convinced he was a Gretzky. By the second or third grade, we realized Tom was no more brilliant than most and by the second or third hockey game, we realized he might not be a Gretzky. But that kid of ours was special. He was anything but average. He marched to his own drummer and refused to conform just for the sake of conforming. He had a keen sense of justice. We never knew what colour his hair would be or what outfit he would wear. It was no surprise when he painted his room bright purple this summer. Now we are so glad these things never made us mad. We could always shake our heads and laugh and enjoy a very unique individual. Tom travelled a fair bit in his short life. He went to music fests in Chicago, youth work holidays in Denver and visits with friends to B.C. It was hard to let him go on these trips, but we knew that sooner or later we had to let go. Tom was a talented musician and a song writer. He loved music and jammin’ with his

1

December 7, 1994

friends. Our child grew up to be taller than his dad. He learned how to work like his dad, too. They spent many hours together, picking up eggs, carrying chickens and doing yard work. What he did, Tom did well. It was a high­ light of his life to help his team win the Provin­ cial Volleyball championship this year. Tom was just coming out of the stage where teenage boys generally ignore their siblings. He was spending more time with Jen, Kate, Sara and Bill. He was protective of Jen, shared a love of purple with Kate, and had to admit his teenage sisters were growing up to be as “cool” as he was. Sara says Tom loved her the best. He cherished the many cards she made for him. Tom and Bill (Billy to the rest of us) shot baskets and wrestled and were “buds.” Tom drove us crazy by borrowing every­ body’s clothes and money. He loved to have change in his pocket. He also loved his first car (a ’76 Dodge Dart), a gift from Grandpa Syd, and his last, a ’79 Ford LTD. Tom was satisfied with few possessions; he did not have a lot of stuff. He spent all the money he had — mostly on guitars, cars, food, music, and helping out his friends. Tom had many, many friends. His cousin Jon’s death devastated him. As a result of his wounded heart from Jon’s death, Tom did not get enough credits to graduate. He took a sum­ mer course to officially finish high school. Tom attended the 1994 graduation as his cousin Rachel’s escort. He was so proud of her. They loved each other dearly. Michael was a good friend to them both. These three made countless trips to Morris

together in Rachel’s half ton. (She didn’t have to pay for gas.) It is a good thing that these three do not have to mourn for each other. When Tom returned from a month in B.C. this summer, he wrote in his journal, “The thing I came to find was right beside me all the time, back home.” He was happy to be home. We were so happy to have him home. We had missed him so much. I told Tom how very, very difficult it was for me to let him go — to let him be a man. I told him how I just wanted to keep him near me and keep him safe. His reply was always the same, “Don’t worry. Mom.” Tom knew how much we loved him and how very proud we were of him. We do not live with regrets about what we didn’t say; everything was said. Tom was a gentleman. Tom had integrity. Tom was a good, honest person. We miss him more than words could ever say. We believe the arms of Jesus were wide open to receive our Tom. And we believe the words of our Lord were the same as the words of his Mom: “This is my son, in whom I am well pleased.” Afterward: In the three months since Tom’s passing, we have been overwhelmed with generous gifts of all kinds from our families, friends, church cind community. Somehow, we are able to bear the unbearable. As Tom’s fa­ mily, we want to give our heartfelt thanks to each one who has given us support in this most difficult time. We are particularly grate­ ful to Tom’s friends for their continued visits and “Tom stories.” Please continue to remem­ ber us and the families of Mike and Rachel in your prayers.

BERNHARD P. D. REIMER 1912-1994

was actively involved till his death. A few years later, on a beautiful summer Sunday evening. Dad went to visit Justina Brandt, which start­ ed a friendship that has lasted sixty years! They were married the next summer on June 30, 1935, at a double wedding with his sister Annie and Ben C. L. Penner. Along with the struggles of making ends meet, two of their children died in their early childhood. These were difficult times, but they were also times of spiritual maturing. Dad found comfort in the words of the song “Die Zeit ist kurz, O Mensch sei weise” (The time is short, redeem it wisely). He recognized that the difficult times of life were little suffering in comparison to what Christ had suffered for him. Dad was very interested in community, fa­ mily and church affairs. He spent a number of terms as a school trustee for the Blumenort School. In the last two decades he held very dear the adult German Sunday school class with its discussions. Along with the spiritual concern for his family, he also cared deeply for the physical and emotional well-being of others. The frequently used statement “Wie motti di aundri entjaen kommi” (We have to be open and meet others halfway) exemplified his generous attitude. Dad’s mind for numbers and dates fascinat­ ed us. Telephone numbers, birthdays, dates

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness which the Lord the righteous Judge will award to me on that day — and not only to me but also to all who have longed for his ap­ pearing” (2 Timothy 4:7). Our father was born on March 14,1912, in Twin Creek near Blum­ enort to our grandpeirents. Bishop Peter P. and Elizabeth R. Dueck Reimer. As a young boy he was very much in love with life, enjoying the farm work, and trapping muskrats and fox­ es. As a two-year-old, his curiosity got the bet­ ter of him when his fingers caught between the rope and the pulley of the haylift on the farm. The mangled fingers that resulted be­ came an identifying feature of Dad’s hands for the rest of his life. Recognizing his spiritual need. Father ac­ cepted Christ as his Saviour and Lord. He was baptized by his father on the confession of his faith in July 1931. He joined the Kleine Gemeinde (now EMC) at Blumenort, where he

PAGE 17

of weddings, baptisms, deaths and other spe­ cial events involving people, he remembered with amazing accuracy. He used his interest in dates and statistics to compile an index of obituaries appearing in the Familienfreund or in the Messenger — not for the interest in death as such, but he saw these important events as graduations and homecomings. He also worked on genealogy books and family clan get-togethers. In 1990, when he was 78, he wrote a biog­ raphy of Mother and himself. His legacy will also live on in the little and some not-so-little wooden projects — tractors, cribs, and tables and chairs for the grandchildren, pictures var­ nished onto wooden blocks, as well as covered coat hangers. Dad signed and dated many of these projects; they will take on extra mean­ ing as time goes on. Although Dad enjoyed physical health well into his seventies, the wearing down of his body became evident when the ligaments in his knees gave out, which was followed by a contest with cancer. Later he needed a pacemaker. Some of the physical health problems helped him see better than ever that real strength is not physical, but spiritual — rooted in Christ. Dad indicated on a number

In Memory In memory of my dad,

k

Norman B. Wiens,

of occasions that he wasn’t afraid to die, but if he were to suffer the agonies of cancer, that was another matter altogether. We are indeed grateful that he has been spared that pain. On Thursday, September 8, he went about his activities in the afternoon, going with Mom to Steinbach to make some visits. That night Dad called some of the children — to continue keeping up the family ties. He went to bed ear­ ly, having fought a cold for a few days. He mentioned that if he didn’t feel better by Sun­ day he wouldn’t go to Springstein for the pas­ tor installation service of his children. A few minutes later his time on earth was over, the race having been finished, the good fight hav­ ing ended. Dad leaves to mourn his wife, Justina; and nine children: Peter and Elma (Leamington), Ed and Lydia (Blumenort), Tina (Blumenort), Margaret (Winnipeg), Denver and Anne (Twin Creek), David and Lorena (Kleefeld), Elizabeth and Don Plett (Springstein), Marion and Harold Dueck (Dewinton, Alta.), Leona and Kurt Schwarz (Toronto, Ont.). He was predeceased by two children. Almon and Abram; his parents, his brothers and two sisters. We mourn, but not without hope. Dad’s life was not always easy, but it was abundant and productive in so many ways. He recognized that true riches are not the material things of this world, but the spiritual tie with Christ, and the blessing of good relationships with the fa­ mily and friends around him. The Family

who passed away ten years ago on

December 24.

I wish you knew I missed you I wish you knew i stiil needed you i wish you knew I’ve never forgotten, And hoid you ciose to my heart.

Time has been a healer But Jesus heals all wounds Tears and laughter, joys and pains There'S much I wish you knew.

I wish you knew my deepest hurts I know you’d help me through I wish you knew the happy times They’d mean so much to you! I wish you knew where we are now And how we re getting on I wish you knew YOUR greatest joys. Your grandsons — Jeremy, Andrew and Tyler. I wish you knew a lot of things These ten years have given to us I wish you knew WE needed you And that your life lives on through usi But, at least I know where you are, Dad, And I know I'll see you again And deep in my heart I KNOW YOU KNOW and wishes do come true.

Love, your daughter, Judy PAGE 18

JACOB K. BARKMAN 1921-1994

Peacefully on September 28, 1994, at the Riverview Health Centre, Jake Barkman of Winnipeg, Man., beloved husband of Tina, went home to be with Jesus at the age of 73. Besides his wife, he is survived by one son, Ronald; and two daughters, Lorraine and David Jacobson and Theresa and Wil­ liam Perdonic, all of Winnipeg; grandchil­ dren, Laura, David Jr. and Joshua Jackson, Scott, Shawn, Michael and Michelle Perdonic. Jacob was born on February 1, 1921, near Steinbach, Manitoba, to John and Sarah Bark­ man, one of nine children. He is survived by one brother, Peter, and five sisters, Marie, Margaret, Elizabeth, Katherine and Helen; and Tina’s three brothers and three sisters; as well as his stepmother, Mrs. Anna Barkman, and her children. He was predeceased by his par­ ents and two sisters, Nettie and Sarah. When Jake was four years old, the family moved to Satanta, Kansas, because his father had been asked to teach in a private school there. They thought it would be for one year but it lasted for twelve. Then in 1937 the dust storms were bad and times were hard so the

^1

family moved back to Canada, to Blumenort, Manitoba. As a young man, he worked at Plett and Co. and at P. J. Loewen’s General Store in Blumenort. When Jake was 26 he made a personal de­ cision to follow Christ and in 1948 he was baptized and received into the EMC. A few years later he met Tina in the doctors office where she was a nurse and tended to his cut hand. They were married on September 2, 1951. Jake was employed with the Hudson’s Bay Co. for most of his married life and retired in 1983. Because Jake had not been very healthy and strong in his teen years, he was always con­ cerned about keeping healthy. He tried to take good care of himself with exercise and eating well, but in the fall of 1991 Jake had his first episode of cancer, which responded well to radiation therapy. After surgery and 36 treat­ ments, we all felt confident that he was a sur­ vivor. Jake never let this stop his activity; even during his daily treatments he often went for a long walk and he always felt better af­ terwards. Jake and Tina loved to travel and over the past six years found themselves in Phoenix, Arizona, and Hawaii several times. They en­ joyed their retirement to the fullest. In June 1994, almost three weeks follow­ ing his thirteenth annual 100-mile cyclathon for Red Rock Bible Camp, he was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. This was a shock for all of us since he had taken such good care of himself. On June 23 he was admitted to the hospital and had brain surgery two days later. The doctors found three tumours but could remove only one. This was a very hard time for Jake because the remaining tumours were pressing on his brain and he found it hard to relax. His memory was fading quickly, but through his memory loss he never once for­ got who his sweetheart, Tina, was, or his love for Jesus. Jake had a burden for the lost and this last spring he helped distribute the Jesus video around our church and witnessed to many, door to door. During his many weeks of hospitalization, he shared that he prayed for each new roommate. Jake appreciated the prayers of those who visited him and as long as he was able he ex­ pressed his thanks each time. He spent many weeks at the Health Sciences Centre, had surgery there and five cobalt treatments to help reduce the pressure. The treatments made him very weak so he was only able to be at home for five days. As Jake became progressively worse, he was transferred to the Riverview Health Centre, where he spent his final days. We wish to thank the doctor and staff on South 3 for their tender care of Jake during his stay there. We also thank all the family and friends who came to visit Jake and sent many cards. Heaven seems nearer now that our husband and father is there. Tina and children

THE MESSENGER

r

this regulation...” The request to speak at the school assembly? Yes, I accepted it with gratitude.

“r -r X-

ii

By the WAY By Dave Schellenberg I WAS OF DRAFT AGE during World War II (1939-1945) and as a Mennonite I had the privilege of applying for Con­ scientious Objector (C.O.) status when my call came. For many this meant do­ ing some form of alternative service, a government-administered program during the war. Many served in Nation­ al Parks in different assignments: log­ ging, sawing mine props, making hay, fighting fires, planting trees, etc. I was a married man with a wife and young child at the time. My alternative service consisted of hauling lumber from the mill site, where it was sawn, to the railway and loading it on flat cars. Part of my salary went to the Red Cross. (In the camps the young men received about 50 cents per day.) This year I received an invitation from a school in our area to participate in their assembly at Remembrance Day observances. My assignment was to relate my C.O. experience in World War II.

Births PETKAU • to Benny and Mary Petkau of Morris. Man., a son, Colin Ray. on November 7. 1994.

Weddings KLASSEN ■ DYCK: John, son of Abe and Agatha Klassen of Leamington, Ont., and Eva, daughter of John and Helen Dyck of Leamington, were manied at the United Mennonite Church in Leamington on October 8. Menno Epp of Leamington officiated. The couple is making their home in Leamington. CROY ■ BUECKERT: Warren, son of James and Elizabeth Croy of High Level, Alta., and Linda, daughter of John and Margareta Bueckert of Fort Vermilion, Alta., were married on July 16, 1994. The wedding took place at the High Level Rural Hall, with Allison Leavitt of High Level officiating. The couple is residing in High Level. FROESE ■ KLASSEN: Simon, son of Jacob and Helen Froese of La Crete, Alta., was married on Oc­ tober 8,1994, to Christine, daughter of Henry and Nancy Klassen of High Level, Alta. The wedding took place at the La Crete EMC Church, with Richard Klassen of High Level officiating. The cou­ ple is making their home in La Crete. DYCK - WIEBE: Darwen, son of John and Anne Dyck of High Level, Alta,, and Joanne, daughter of John and Betty Wiebe of Martensville, Sask., were married at the Grace Mennonite Church in Neuanlage, Sask., on May 21,1994. Richard Klas­ sen of High Level officiated. The couple is making their home in High Level.

December 7, 1994

When young men received a call to join the armed forces, the Conscientious Objectors had to have a medical examination and then appear before a judge to declare their intention to apply for C.O. status. As they were processed they were given a number; mine was J103239. In all, some 10,700 opted for C.O. service in Canada (some were nonMennonite), and over $2 million of their wages went to the Red Cross. The churches rallied and sent chaplains to the camps to give spiritual help. The war ended in May 1945. I still have the letter, received in September, from the Divisional Alternative Service Officer, Mr. M. P. Blair, stating that reports could now be limited to every three months. It contained these kind words for this service: ‘‘Due to the satisfactory co-operation received from conscientious objectors and their employers in regard to reporting to this office, we are now able to ease

FOR THE SMALL GROUP of some twelve people on October 27, It was an opportunity to reminisce about days gone by. In this case it was Bible school days at the Steinbach Bible School, mainly during the 1940s. We had been invited to an alumni gather­ ing at the home of former Bible school students, John and Leona Reimer, Others could have come, but the fol­ lowing were present: Ben and Helen Eidse (Steinbach), George and Evelyn Enns (Winnipeg), Archie and Elvira Penner (Kola), John and Leona Reimer (Kleefeld), Dave and Helen Schellenberg (Steinbach), and Gus and Agnes Toews (Steinbach). Steinbach Bible College has made great strides since those days. For one, it is now an accredited college. Where in the ’40s there were maybe half a dozen full-time staff, there are now twenty-seven. The annual budget is around $1.5 million. I’m looking fonward to the next alumni gathering of this chapter. If your connections go back to the forties, be sure and make it a point to be present.

The ABCS of Christmas by L. Marie Enns Angel announces advent Baby born in Bethlehem Choir celestial Descends Ethereal Fear not Give glory to Cod in Highest Heaven Incarnation in infant, Immanuel Jesus our joy King of kings Lamb of Cod, Lord of lords Manger-miracle mystery, Messiah Nativity news for all nations 0 come, let us adore Him, the One and Only Prince of peace Ouickener of souls Regal Redeemer of rebels Suffering Servant, Saviour of sinners TO Cod be thanks for this Unspeakable Gift! Virgin-born, vicarious Sacrifice, victorious Christ Whom wise men worship, the Way, Truth, Life xactly the same Yesterday, today, forever Zion'S King! PAGE 19

From the Editor No Vacancy Dear Boys and Girls: DO YOU LIKE to travel? We do, because we think it’s fun to see new places and things and to meet new people. Sometimes we travel because we want to visit our family and friends. One Christmas time, quite a few years ago, we were on our way from our home in northern Alberta to Manitoba. We and our four children were looking forward to having a good Christmas celebration with our relatives. When we left Edmonton we noticed that the weather was getting worse. It was snowing quite heavily and the wind was getting stronger. For a while we drove quite well. But as we continued it was getting harder and harder to see the highway. Snow drifts, piling up on the road, slowed us down. Besides, it was getting dark, which made driving in the storm even worse. We had planned to keep driving through the night so we could arrive by noon the next day. But what if we got stuck or drove off the road in the middle of the night? Should we continue? It would be better and safer, we decided, to stay at a motel in the next town. By morning the storm might be over and we could continue on our way. After about 15 or 20 minutes we got to the town and began looking for motels. The sign on the first one said “No Vacancy.” The next few were also full. Many other travellers had already stopped because of the storm. There was only one motel left. Would it have room for us, we wondered? It did. We got their last room! We thanked God for saving a place for us for the night. After a good sleep, we woke to find the sun shining. The wind had stopped and the snowplows were clearing the snow off the highway. We continued cheerfully and safely on our way to a happy Christmas.

zzszzzsniiizswSA

I PAGE 20

MANY, MANY YEARS ago, Joseph and Mary had to travel from their home in Nazareth to Bethlehem. It was a trip that probably took several days because they walked or rode on a donkey. A lot of people were travelling at that time, because they had to register in the place where their people had come from. For Mary and Joseph that place was Bethlehem. Of course there were no phones, so they couldn’t make reservations at the Bethlehem motel. When they arrived they were so disappointed. The motel was already full. There was “No Vacancy.” And there were no other motels. But they needed a place to stay. The only place they could find was a barn. So they moved in with the animals. Poor as it was, it was much better than spending the cold night outside under the stars. That night, in that barn, Mary’s baby boy was born. There was no nice white crib for Him, such as you probably had when you were little. But there was a manger (a place for cattle to eat) for Him to sleep in. There was no soft mattress, but there was sweet­ smelling straw. There was no warm, woollen quilt, but Mary had pieces of cloth in which to wrap her little baby, Jesus. When Jesus was born there was no room for Him. Is there room for Jesus today? He is the Saviour and He wants room in our lives. Are you so busy with other things that you have no time or room for Jesus? Does your sign say “No Vacancy”? The Bible says that He is knocking at our door. Open your door and make room for Jesus in your life. When He comes He brings love, peace and joy. Take time for Him, He loves you very much. I pray that Jesus will help you to have a wonderful Christmas. Your friend, Menno Hamm

r

►-*

■

I

I IM

THE MESSENGER Evangelical Mennonite Conference Box 1268, 440 Main Street Steinbach, MB ROA 2A0

ovz voa aw H3vaNi3iS NIVW NiS ozvi xoa Od 3931103 31818 H3VaNI3iS i.oda-ov2vou- re 1-98 no

A|d8U sssuisng

seJiBHB.p esuodeu iR>] >

«

T6T98TT0

TO !,

oAed MOd

of

jnQ( 3)ppui p'/M dufS|S y

W—3 ■..... W— I

P!Bd aBeisod

3±SOdClIVVM

ajl^5-'l

.■' Jjj

Steinbach Bible College and Steinbach Christian High School Report to Constituent Members Christmas 1994 "His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his purpose which he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord." Ephesians 3:10 Si 11

Our goal at SBC is to prepare students to assist in making known the wisdom of God in our world today. However, as your constituent College we train our students to do this through the church. ''Xh are simply a training arm of the churches in the Chortitizer, Evangelical Mennonite, and Evangelical Mennonite Mission conferences, as well as the Steinbach Evangelical Mennonite Brethren Church. Without your faithful support we could not continue as your College providing Bible-based education. This support includes praying, contributing financially and directing potential .^students our way. God is indeed using our partnership to help make known His wisdom in th^ world today.

Highlights of the 93-94 School Year With increased enrolment in the High School and a need to update the computer lab for both the College and High School the construction of a temporary classroom building was begun in spring and was nearly completed by the end of the summer. Thanks to many volunteers assisting with construction and considerable donations of material, the cost of the new 2160 square foot building, including furnishings, was kept under $50,000.

The Board of Directors approved the new position of Youth Ministries Coordinator to begin on August 1, 1994. John Schellenberg as the Coordinator is available to assist constituent churches with their youth ministry programs. Nineteen students graduated from the College on May 1st and 30 students graduated from the High School on June 26th. We are thankful for all 49 graduates and trust they will be used of God both in the Church and abroad. With considerable prayer and strong donation support the College was able to balance its budget for the 1993-94 fiscal year which ended on July 31. We want to thank all of our churches as well as those individuals who supported the College in its fund drive.

Looking Ahead to the 94-95 School Year Once again, enrolment is up slightly in College and substantially in the High School. praise God for this increase. Continue to pray for us at the College as we strive to prepare present and future students to serve in an ever changing world. Pray for us as we plan the SBC 60th Anniversary. A committee is being struck to plan for the celebration which will look back at 60 years of God's faithfulness to the College. A 60th Anniversary history book is also being written for the occasion. Celebrations are planned to begin in the fall of 1996 with the launch of SBC's history book. Pray for John Schellenberg as he assumes the new role as Youth Ministries Coordinator. It is the hope of the College that he will have the insight and wisdom to minister to the many youth workers in our constituent churches.

God continues to use SBC in training servant leaders for our churches in the Chortitizei; Evangelical Mennonite, and Evangelical Mennonite Mission conferences, and the Steinbach EMB Church. It is only with your support and prayers that SBC can continue this ministry. Again, thank you for your continued support and prayers. May God bless our partnership as we make known His wisdom in the world today. Steinbach Bible College Box 1420 Steinbach, MB ROA ZAO 1-800-230-8478 or 204-326-6451

Dear Friends, Christmas is always a special time for me. It is a time to celebrate with family, friends and church community. It is a time for reflection and renewal. It is a time for a change of pace. It is a time for "touching base" with "long-distance" friends. (I know form letters are not the most personal, but I trust you will read it anyway. I would love to share briefly what the Lord is doing at SBC.) We have had a busy first semester. Student numbers are holding their own in the College and are up in the High School. We have a brand new temporary classroom facility ("hut") providing for a large computer lab and two full sized classrooms. We enjoyed a wonderful "Beginning of the Year" Student/Faculty orientation and bonding time at Red Rock in mid September. The College faculty with many friends of the College spent a day in long-term planning in early November. In mid November we hosted YOUTH ALIVE, the annual SBC youth event. Life moves at a fast pace at the SBC and all of us are grateful for the privilege of being involved. SBC life spills over well beyond the walls of the institution. Over this past year I and other faculty members have had opportunities to serve in many constituent churches and in various ways. This service includes preaching, music and conducting seminars. This is a ministry 1 personally find very fulfilling. We as a College are trying to build stronger partnership ties with the churches. Together we can assist one another in sharing the Good News which we are celebrating this time of year I am grateful for the support we receive from people like you. Support includes the following: prayer, encouraging potential students to attend SBC and financial contributions. Friends of SBC make it possible for us to continue to provide affordable College education. As you consider your Christmas or Year-end giving, please consider SBC. Trusting you and your family will have a blessed Christmas and a "wonder filled" new year.

President

Yes, I want to assist SBC in sharing God’s Good News Here is my gift of: $50 $ 100 I will pray for the ministry of Steinbach Bible College.

.$250 Others.

—

Name Address

City

Province

i’isi

Postal Code__________________________________________________________ Your gift is tax deductible under registration number 0238030-20 TEAR HERE

FOLD OVER FLAR SEAL AND MAIL THIS FLAP IS GUMMED

TEAR HERE

^15