The Messenger January 11, 1995

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EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE

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Amf tRe Lorrf is ific one wRo goes oHead of you; Jie wiU Re nntR _you, Me wiCC not /ail j>on or for­ sake you. (Do iwtfear or Re (Rsnw^eifJ^ — (Deuteronomy 31:8

Moderator’s New Year’s Message

H H/ir’.S AT THE HUB? (SETTING PRIORITIES) by Ralph Unger

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f you placed all the things that are clamouring for your attention on a wheel, what would you put in the middle? What’s most important to you? How do you decide what goes into the hub and which issues can be moved farther out near the rim? Fortunately, God has given us some guidelines. Someone interested in doing it right once asked Jesus, “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “ 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. ’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbour as yourself. ’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments” (Matthew 22:35-40). In other words, if the teaching of the Old Testament were like a wheel, Jesus says that loving God and loving your neighbour are the two things that we should put at the centre. The Israelites thought that abstaining from food would impress God. In response to this, Isaiah gives us this window of truth. Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter — when you see the naked, to clothe him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? (Isaiah 58:6-7). Isaiah tells them that God is not as impressed by their fasting as by their working for justice and helping the poor. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus admonishes us, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33). Jesus is not saying that food and clothes are unimportant. Rather, He promises that if His followers will put a higher priority on kingdom issues, then He will make sure they have their food and clothes. In the teaching on what will occur at the end of time, the King cites some interesting criteria on which he bases the separation of the sheep from the goats. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, / was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me (Matthew 25:35-36). PAGE 2

At Pentecost, Peter is asked by the convicted crowd of Jews, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:37-38). While under the influence of the Holy Spirit, Peter says that turning from a life of sin to God is of first importance. This is to be followed by water baptism. Paul says many things about priorities, but what he says to the Philippian jailer in Acts 16:31 is of particular interest to me. Paul and Silas have just been severely beaten by order of the magistrate. Now they are thrown into prison where the jailer takes over. He is under orders to make sure they are well guarded. So he puts them in a high security cell and fastens their feet in stocks. That night an earthquake rattles the prison and all the doors swing open. The jailer expects the worst...the prisoners are gone! He decides to kill himself rather than to have the authoritie.s do it. Paul notices this and calls out to him just in time. The shaken jailer comes to Paul and Silas and asks what he needs to do in order to be saved. They reply, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved — you and your household” (Acts 16:31). Paul does not say that he should sell all that he has and give to the poor as Jesus said to the rich, young ruler. He simply tells the jailer to believe. James has firsthand knowledge of Jesus’ personal priorities. After all, he is the half brother to Jesus. In his letter James emphasizes the balance between faith and works. “In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead” (James 2:17).

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n this somewhat random selection of passages we get a sense of what God requires of us. Though this list is certainly not exhaustive, it does give a framework for those of us who accept the Bible as the foundation of our lifestyle. It seems there are two themes in the above passages. On the one hand, we are to love God. We are supposed to put His kingdom as first priority. We must repent from our sin and be baptized. We are told to believe in God. All this speaks of the vertical relationship, our connection with God. But there is another theme that runs through the passages. It is the horizontal relationship, that with other people. Loving your neighbour, feeding him, THE MESSENGER

clothing him, and working for justice on behalf of those who are underprivileged in society is also important. Saying we believe in God and ignoring the blatant needs of our neighbours does not make sense. Francis Schaeffer once asked, “How shall we then live?” The answer is not simply in developing the correct creed. Yes, doctrine is important, but if we as “believers” have our statement of faith correct on paper but incorrect in our workboots, Jesus is not impressed. On the other hand, if we set aside the business of believing correctly and begin addressing human needs around us without a proper theological base, we will be busy all right but may lack the focus that we see in the ministry of Jesus. In Fines’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words, he says, “Faith is of the heart, invisible to men; obedience is of the conduct and may be observed. When a man obeys God he gives the only possible evidence that in his heart he believes God.” In studying the meaning of the Greek word pistis in the lexicon, I noticed that first of all the word means to believe or to have faith. Second, the word also means to be faithful or to be reliable. Faith, if it is genuine, must lead to faithfulness. In setting our priorities we must keep those two things in balance. You as an individual must decide what is to be at the hub of your life. As a member of your church you make an impact on your church’s overall influence in your community. Your church, in turn, is a vital part of the group of fifty churches known as the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. What will our priorities be in the rest of this millennium? Should we as a Conference continue to spend over eighty percent of the budget on evangelism and missions? Or is it time we listen to other voices? For example, should the Conference pay more attention to feeding the hungry? Should the Christian Life classes that we have for those seeking membership in our churches zero in on ecological issues so that the new members will be prepared to make a positive impact in a society that has become environment­ conscious?

Ralph Unger, pastor of Crestview Fellowship (EMC) in Winnipeg, Man., was elected Conference moderator in December 1994. He and his wife, Mary Lynn, have four children, two of whom are at home.

What about supporting or starting advocacy groups for those who have experienced political, physical, emotional, or sexual abuse? Should we spend more energy on creating equality between the genders? Are we active enough in helping visible minorities in their efforts to get a fair shake? Or is the church’s job to preach the gospel? Will those who respond to the saving grace of Christ have the best chance of getting their social needs met? Is there any other agency that will tell the world that Jesus loves them? If the church becomes another social agency, who will tell people that they are sinners and that they can be saved through the blood of Christ? As we saw in the passages above, the Bible does not isolate the word from the deed. Our faith is measured by our faithfulness. We must not allow ourselves to become polarized. Just because we are evangelical does not mean that we are not concerned about our neighbour’s flooded basement. Helping them clean up their basement without first checking their doctrinal orthodoxy does not mean that we are not primarily concerned about their salvation. My concern for myself, for our church, and for our Conference is that we allow the Bible to guide us in setting our priorities. There may not be a proof-text for every move we make, but as we study the Bible with an open mind we will feel the heartbeat of God. That, my friends, and not the pressure of society, should guide us in deciding what we put in the hub of the wheel.

Questions for the Neui Year In the New Vear are you willing... ...to dose your booh of complaints and to open the Booh of Praise? ...to ignore uuhot life owes you and to thinh about what you owe life? ...to stop loohing for friendship and to start being friendly? ...to be content with such things as you hove and to stop whining for the things you have not? ...to enjoy the simple blessings of life and to cease striving for the artifi­ cial pleasures of the day? January 11, 1995

...to forget what you have accom­ plished and to meditate on whot others have done for you? ...to cease loohing for someone to help you and to devote yourself to helping others? ...to consecrate your life to the serv­ ice of an imperfect church and to remember that Christ chose twelve imperfect followers to be His dis­ ciples? — The Beacon

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Letters Concerned About Changes It is saddening and regrettable that the E.M. Conference is evidently unwilling and/or un­ able to take a unified, Biblical position Service Opportunity for

Co-Directors EL’DAD RANCH El'Dad Ranch is a residential treatment centre for borderline mentally challenged adult men in conflict with the law. While El'Dad receives government funding, it is accountable to MCC Manitoba and oper­ ates under the advice of a nine-member advisory committee from the surrounding communities. There are six residents. This is asalaried position beginning July 1, 1995. For a full job description or details, call or write Peter H. Peters at the MCC offices, 134 Plaza Drive. Winnipeg, Manito­ ba R3T 5K9. ph: (204) 261-6381 or fax: (204) 269-9875. Application deadline: Feb. 28. 1995

POSITION AVAILABLE

concerning the issue of divorce and remar­ riage, the acceptance of such persons into for­ mal church membership and the involvement of liberal E.M.C. ministers to perform mar­ riages involving divorced persons (where the first partner remains alive). Acceptance of such persons as members, despite their personal testimony, personal justification, rationalization and explanations of their divorced and remarried state, is unbiblical. What is to prevent the acceptance of persons of other deviant lifestyles into the church in the future? “And [Jesus] saith unto them, Whosoever shall put away his wife and marry another, committeth adultery against her. And if a woman shall put away her husband and be married to another, she committeth adultery” (Mark 10:11, 12). “Whosoever putteth away his wife and mar-

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Youth Leadership Faculty Providence College is inviting applica­ tions for a faculty position in Youth Leadership (Doctorate preferred, Masters with significant experience con­ sidered). Preference will be given to Canadian applicants with Christian col­ lege or university experience. Candi­ dates must be able to support the College's non-denominational mission and standards of faith and conduct. Contact Mark Little, Acting Academic Dean, Providence College, Otterburne, Manitoba ROA IGO. Phone (204) 433-7488

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MENNONITE FOUNDATION OFHCES; Winnipeg 4-117 Victor Lewis Drive, Winnipeg R3P 1J6 Tel. (204) 488-1985 Fax 488-1986 Kitchener 50 Kent Avenue, Kitchener, Ontario N2G 3R1 Tel (519)745-7821 Fax 745-0064

Clearbrook 303-32025 Dahlstrom Ave , Abbotsford, B.C. V2T2K7 Tel. (604) 850-9613 Fax 850-9372 MFC Is a stevjardshlp ssvke agency sponsored by Evangelical ennonJte Mission Mennonite Mission Conference, Conference, Ewan^Bflcal Evangelical Mennonlte Mennonlte Conf«ence, Conf«ence, Northwest Mennonlte Confemce, Conference of Mennonltes In Canada, and Mennonlte Coriference of E^em Canada.

January 31 - March 1 ■‘30 Days Muslim Prayer January 15 Focus," an international EMC Missions movement calling Christians Day of Prayer to pray for Muslims Phone: (204) 326-6401 Phone: (604) 768-4410 January 22 February 3 - 5 Mennonite World Conference Missions Fest World Fellowship Day West Meadows Baptist Phone: (519) 571-0060 Church January 26 - 28 Edmonton, Alta. Vision 2000 Consultation Phone: (403) 487-1417 on Evangelism February 9-11 Toronto, Ont. Vision 2000 Consultation Phone: (519) 725-2000 on Evangelism January 27 - 29 Winnipeg, Man. Missions Fest Phone: (519) 725-2000 Vancouver Trade and February 16-18 Convention Centre Vision 2000 Consultation Vancouver, B.C. on Evangelism Phone: (604) 524-9944 Saskatoon, Sask.

COMING EVENTS

Phone: (519) 725-2000

PAGE 4

CANADA

March 17 - 18 SBC/Tri-Conference Leadership Conference Steinbach Bible College Steinbach, Man. Phone: (204) 326-6451 May 19 - 22 Abundant Springs National Youth Convention Briercrest Schools Caronport, Sask. Phone: (204) 355-4511 June 17 EMC Mixed Slo-Pitch Tournament Steinbach, Man. Phone: (204) 326-6573 June 30 - July 2 Annual EMC Convention Calgary, Alberta Phone: (204) 326-6401 or (403) 273-6222

rieth another committeth adultery: and whosoever marrieth her that is put away from her husband committeth adultery” (Luke 16:18). It is ironic to think, for example, that the Steinbach E.M.C. up until approx. 1919, ex­ communicated members purchasing automo­ biles. During the 1940s and 1950s, the use of musical instruments in church services was considered worldly. The Blumenort church ac­ cepted a piano in approx. 1972, a controver­ sial issue during the 1960s. The acceptance of TV during the 1970s was considered, at best, controversial. Today, divorce and remar­ riage appears to be gaining alarming justifica­ tion and acceptance, without much objection, less so than the issues the church has faced in the past. I feel compelled to express my concern regarding this issue. As a former EMCer, I have warm and fond memories of the years I was a member, but in seeing what is occur­ ring, the realization that the past is not the present becomes very obvious. Robert Loewen Ra^imond, Alta. CONTRIBUTORS: Vai Zacharias, her husband. Ken. and their children returned from missionary service in Paraguay recently and are presently living in Kleefeld. Man. Alanna Bartel (Rosenort) is a dorm assis­ tant at the Black Forest Academy in Germany. Amanda Barkman (Blumenort) teaches mis­ sionary children in Venezuela, under New Tribes Mission. OMISSION: We failed to acknowledge Elisa Olfert (Steinbach EFC), whose poem, “Search Me,” appeared on page one of the previous Messenger. Sorry. COVER: Photo by the editor. 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 their own, 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: (204) 326 6401: Fax: (204) 326-1613

THE MESSENGER

VISjON VISION

CANADA

CANADA

Celebrating God and the Gospel At Work In Consultation with You Be ready for the 1995 Consultation on Evangelism coming to a city near you! Join with us as we celebrate the evidence of God at work in churches across Canada representing over 90 denominations and ministries cooperating together. Here is a mid­ decade opportunity you will not want to miss!

Moncton - January 12-14 Montreal - January 19-21 Toronto - January 26-28 Sault Ste Marie - February 2-4 Winnipeg - February 9-11 Saskatoon - February 16-18 Calgary - February 23-25 Vancouver - March 2-4 ---------- Vision 2000 Canada is a ministry of

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PO Box 154 Waterloo ON N2J .57.9 Ph: 519-725-2000 Fax: 519-725-2001

"Hidden Heroes" book to be released at Consultations on Evangelism Waterloo, Ont. — Last summer Vision 2000 Canada selected 70 stories of “hidden heroes” for publication. These heroes include people who share their faith in the inner cities, in business, with children, and in many other walks of life. They are people with a low profile but a high impact for the Kingdom.

The book will be released during the 1995 Consultations on Evan­ gelism hosted in eight centres across Canada. With the theme “Celebrating God and the Gospel at Work,” the consultations will encourage Christian leaders by what is happening in evangelism in Canada and equip them to refine their vision for evangelism for the next five years. Each consultation will feature a variety of speakers, chosen from a pool of pastors, national Christian leaders, business people and other lay people (including representatives of the aboriginal, French, Chinese and other ethnic branches of the church). A combined at­ tendance of 2500-30(30 pastors and laity are anticipated at these Consultation centres. Following the eight working consultations, a National Leadership Consultation on Evangelism, composed of national denominational and parachurch leaders, will study the findings collected at the eight centres to gain a sense of what God is doing and to recast their vi­ sion as we move towards the year 20(X).

STEWARDSHIP THAT COUNTS

$$$

by Henry Friesen

Are New Year's Resolutions Lies in Sheep's Clothing? Have you ever wondered why New Year’s resolutions don’t work? I don’t even make them any more. My last resolution was a promise to my wife to wash the dishes every February 29 — and I forgot. New Year’s resolutions and fairy tales belong in the same category. They don’t work, especially when they relate to budgeting. If you hate paperwork in general and budgets in particular, you are probably in the majority. You may begin every year with the best of intentions but, like some of the seed in the “Parable of the Sower,” wither at the first sign of heat. So what’s the alternative? It’s actually so simple you may not believe it. Just follow these “non-budget” rules consistently and your "non-budget” will look after itself. Goodbye budgeting! Hello financial success! 1. Give a tithe to your church every time you get paid. (That way you never have to catch up.) 2. When you get unexpected income, give a double tithe. 3. Put 10% in savings every time you get paid (minimum 5%). 4. Pay off your credit card bills in full every month. (If you can’t, mail all your credit

January 11, 1995

cards to your pastor and ask him to store them until further notice.) 5. Go out for a meal with your spouse once a month (twice a month if you are over 50). 6. Never use your credit card for un­ planned purchases. 7. When in doubt about buying something, wait 30 days before deciding. During those 30 days get at least two comparative prices, Did you notice that the first five points are ways to spend your money? Financial success consists of spending your money wisely, not simply refraining from spending. And did you notice that the last two points re­ quire you to think before you spend? Many budgets don’t work because people spend first and think later. So do New Year’s resolutions work? Not unless you re-resolve them 364 times a year, Attitude is as important as action for longterm success.

Cuba's church attendance triples in three years (MWC) Attendance at all of Cuba’s Protestant churches, including mainstream and Pen­ tecostal churches, has tripled in the past three years, according to a Cuban church histori­ an. Jacobo Guiribitey said, “This massive at­ tendance by new members and former church members has changed in a crucial way the pastoral ministry and the life of the local par­ ishes. Several years ago there was an aver­ age of 100 people in churches on Sunday, now the average is 300. According to Guiribitey, the large-scale return of people to the church proves that atheism in Cuba has produced a spiritual void which in turn has led to a search for new values. (Ecumenical News Interna­ tional)

Plan to attend the

Tri-Conference Leadership Conference at Steinbach Bible College Steinbach, Manitoba on March 17 and 18, 1995

Topic: Seniors and Church Ministries Speaker: Katie Funk Wiebe These articles are prouided as a service of the Board of Trustees. Henry Friesen (Kola) is a char-

tered accountant at Virden, Man.

Phone (204) 326-6451

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MCC urged to consult more before sending statements to government Kitchener, Ont. (Meetinghouse) — How state­ ments to government are drafted came under scrutiny at the Mennonite Central Committee Canada annual meeting held here November 17-18. This was one of four discussion topics scheduled into the agenda. The Ottawa Office provided a ready-made case study for the dis­ cussion. As part of their report from Ottawa, Chris Derksen Hiebert and Joanne Epp tabled a statement about the federal government’s so­ cial policy reform proposals. Several board members took issue with the sentence: “We urge the government to resist making debt and deficit reduction the corner­ stone of policy making.” Without deficit reduc­ tion, they argued, there would be no money for social programs. Other board members said the debate needs to be broadened; they advocated taking more money from the defense budget, or requiring businesses to pay more tax. The discussion shifted quickly to the process of how statements to the government are drafted. In the past year, MCC Canada issued over 30 communications to govern­ ment, many of them on international issues such as immigration and refugees, foreign af­ fairs and conscientious objection, and some on domestic matters. Board member David Cressman proposed that MCC Canada “routinely test draft state­ ments with board members and with confer­ ence moderators.” Aldred Neufeldt revised the

Youth propose inter-Mennonite council Kitchener, Ont. — High-school age youth got inspired as they took part in the November 16-19 meetings of both Mennonite Central Committee Canada and MCC Ontario. Members of the youth delegation announced they would like to plan a retreat or some other event for young people from each of the groups that are part of MCC. The purpose of the retreat would be to pro­ mote MCC and also "bring together youth from across conference lines.” according to a letter drafted by three of the participants — Tina Jantzi, John Loewen and Scott Albrecht. They added: “We believe that since we all have the same solid foundation of Christ Je­ sus, we need to come together to share our applications of Christian life and learn from each other.” In a letter they further suggested that a “youth council” be formed to plan the retreat and other events, and also to send a represen­ tative to the MCC Ontario board. For further information on the proposed council, write to: MCC Ontario, 50 Kent Avenue, Kitchener, Ont. N2G 3R1. — Ron Rempel, editor, Mennonite Reporter, for Meetinghouse PAGE 6

proposal slightly. He urged that “resource net­ works of ‘wise people’ with diverse perspec­ tives be drawn on in actually drafting statements.’’ Board members approved the proposal, with a dissenting vote from Jeanette Neufeld, who said, “It seems like we want to control the Ottawa Office.” Speaking in support of the proposal, Cressman said he felt business per­ spectives were missing in the response to the social policy reform proposals. The relationship of MCC to the business community was a second discussion topic. “How can these two worlds...be brought together in increased trust and cooperation?” was the question posed to small groups. No specific proposals emerged. The other two discussion topics centred on MCC Canada’s “strategic planning process.” The board sent a summary vision statement back for more work because they felt it was not visionary enough. The board approved a summary of MCC Canada’s “fields of activities” — with the “global support” program on the top of the list and the domestic “peace and justice” program second. This list reaffirmed the 1992 “Red River Ac­ cord,” which aims for 60 per cent of revenue to be spent on overseas programs. At the

same time the board acknowledged the grow­ ing strength of arguments to spend more money on programs closer to home. The next steps in strategic planning will in­ clude a more detailed process of setting pri­ orities, and then restructuring. The tough decisions about what gets cut or shifted are still to be made. The board approved a $19.8 million budg­ et, with just under 60 per cent of this money earmarked for relief and service work in other countries. Of the 36 people around the table, 23 represent 11 Mennonite and Brethren in Christ groups; there are several members-at-large. The remaining members represent provincial MCCs. The most vigorous discussion came near the end of the 12-hour agenda, with expres­ sions of frustration. A new board member, David Wall, called for fewer reports and more time for “discussion of policy and difficult ques­ tions facing us.” Others said they’re not sure whether they’re a constituent assembly or a board. The chair, George Richert, said they’re both — with a tenmember executive committee handling the “nitty gritty.” Board members said they wanted more reports from the executive committee, and more say in the full range of policy matters. — Ron Rempel, editor of Mennonite Report­ er. for Meetinghouse.

Mennonite Historical Society of Canada Receives Volume III Manuscript The Mennonite Historical Society of Cana­ da board and executive met on Saturday, De­ cember 3, at Conrad Grebel College, Waterloo, Ontario, for their annual meeting. Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Ontario representatives attended the meeting. These included provincial chapters of the Historical Society, as well as representatives from the General Conference, Mennonite Brethren, Evangelical Mennonite Conference and Con­ ference of Mennonites in Ontario. The society had the pleasure of receiving the full manuscript of Volume III of Mennonites in Canada. This was a milestone in the project’s three-decade life. Earlier volumes pub­ lished in 1974 and 1982 were written by Frank Epp, former professor at Conrad Grebel College. The new volume has been written by Profes­ sor Ted Regehr, Historian of Canadian Busi­ ness at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon. The manuscript will be examined a final time by the national Reader’s Commit­ tee, and then go to press at the University of Toronto Press. The book will cover years that have not been examined systematically before; name­ ly, the years between 1945 and 1970. This was a time of major change in the Canadian Mennonite community and readers of Men­ nonite history will look forward to the insights of Professor Regehr on what really happened during these years.

The society also examined other proposed projects: a pamphlet useful for teachers, a binational conference with the American Mennonites and a special women’s archival search. The board re-elected Ted Friesen, former co-owner of D. W. Friesen’s in Altona, Manito­ ba, as president. Mr. Friesen has been with the Mennonite Historical Society of Canada since its inception in the 1960s and has provided close guidance of the project since that time. Linda Huebert Hecht (Waterloo, Ontario) was reappointed treasurer, Mr. Dick Epp of Saskatoon was elected the vicepresident and Dr. Reg Good of Waterloo was named secretary. Royden Loewen

RACISM RESOURCE The Peace and Social Concerns desk of MCC Canada has just completed a wor­ ship resource packet on Racism, entitled: “Racism — A Worship Resource Packet.” It includes sermon texts and illustrations, stories, hymns, litanies and prayers. Although the topic is applicable at any time during the year, it would be appropri­ ate for use around March 21, Internation­ al Anti-Racism Day. The packet can be ordered from the MCC Canada or provincial MCC offices.

THE MESSENGER

L.

Reflecting and Moving Ahead Vai Zacharias Furlough — a time to rest, relax and report. For us it has also been a time to look back and also wonder at the future. Upon reflection, we see how God uses each experience in our lives to mould us, chip at our rough edges, encourage us and show us who He is. In 1979, a year after we were married, Ken spent a year at Winnipeg (now Providence) Theological Seminary studying. Mid-Prairie Scripture Mission in northern Saskatchewan gave us a call and we spent two years there. At this time Nathan, our oldest, was six months old and towards the end of our time there Travis and Tara were born. Our time was spent in teaching religious classes in the schools, holding DVBS in various communities and directing the newly built Camp Kadesh. Spending time with the parents of the school children in these communities helped us realize the importance of the need for local churches. We felt the need to get some church experience to fully understand the idea of church planting. Portage la Prairie, Man., was our next move. Nathan was two years old and Travis and Tara were six months old. It was truly a time of learning, and under the guidance of Pastor Nelson we received the instruction we needed and saw the wisdom of God in this godly man. After three years as associate pastor and pastor, plus another son, Jared, added to our family, we were affirmed that church planting was our gift. A Korean couple was very instrumental in reminding us of this. They encouraged us to go and work with another culture. During the same week another lady phoned and said, “Why don’t you guys go to Paraguay? Then our church would have missionaries to send out.” As well, that same week, that ever-present (or so it seemed) ad for church planters was in the Messenger. “Well,” I thought to myself, “I guess we’re going to Paraguay. We packed our bags and headed off to Edinburg, Texas, to learn Spanish. In many ways it was a relaxing time. The only responsibilities were to learn Spanish and take care of our four children. During the summer months we travelled to

Evening Courses offered at Steinbach Bible College Steinbach, Man. — Three evening courses will be offered at Steinbach Bible College this winter to community residents for developing relational and ministry skills. Child Abuse and the Church will ex­ plore the dynamics of child abuse and discuss ways in which the church can minister to abuse victims. It is offered Tuesdays, 7:00-9:00 p.m., beginning January 17 and concluding February 21. It is a non-credit course offered through SBC’s Christian Com­ munity Education division.

Introduction to Counselling, taught by Harvey Plett, will examine theories and

January 11, 1995

The Zacharias family, left to right: Tara, Ken, Vai, Nathan, Travis and Jared.

Mexico, visiting the different EMC churches and practicing our limited Spanish. January 1987 found us in Paraguay. Caaguazu was our home for the next seven years. Here we made many friends, shared God’s love with many people and had our frustrations. In other words, it was a time of moulding us, chipping away at us, encouraging us and realizing who God is. As we have been sharing with many of you in your churches and will be sharing with many more of you in the near future, we pray that our experiences and the experiences of the national brethren in the Paraguayan churches will also help to mould you, encourage you and renew your love and commitment to God and to who He is. Our future is uncertain at this point. God knows and that’s enough — as long as He keeps moulding us, chipping away at us, encouraging us and helping us to see who He is.

models of counselling in relation to Biblical teaching. Dr. Plett, Dean of Student Services at SBC, will draw on his own extensive coun­ selling experience to give the course an em­ phasis on practical application. This course, offered Mondays, 7:00-9:00 p.m., begins January 16 and concludes April 17. The Camping course will be taught by Kim Coursey, who brings with him many years of experience at Red Rock Bible Camp. This course will introduce participants to various types of camp programs, as well as group leadership, effective craft work, recreation and methods of counselling. It will be offered Tues­ days, 7:00-10:00 p.m., beginning January 10 and concluding February 21. “Introduction to Counselling” and “Camp­ ing” are offered for academic credit, but are also available for audit. Further information about these courses is available by calling Steinbach Bible College at 326-6451.

6A1C post-secondari^ students: Come and bring a friend to the

5TUD€NT LUNCH€ON Monday, February 6 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (Como and go)

Boom 205 207 (Flrborg I Firn Fton) Universiti,i Centre

University of Manitoba Featuring a panel discussion:

Thinking and Living Christianly at the University (Professors and students address the issues) moderated by Dr. fl/ Hiebert

FRCC LUNCH Sponsored bi^ CMC Board of Church Ministries Phone: (204) 326-6401

PAGE 7

Missions GERMANY

The Life of an MK God is Interested in Me! I want to introduce i^ou to one of the girls liuing in my dorm. Natalia Fledderjohn. Nata­ lia is a sophomore at Black Forest Academy in Kandern, Germany. I haue asked her to share a little about where she is from, about her family and her walk with God. My name is Natalia and I’m an MK from Ita­ ly. Most of my growing-up years were spent in Sicily and Vdine, Italy. My parents have now been in Italy for fifteen years and they are presently church planting in Vdine, about 100 km northeast of Venice. The church is slowly growing, 1 witness to my friends and try to in­ volve them in many church activities. But it’s very hard, and my role in my parents’ work has been to be a good daughter, and to be able to show what a Christian family is like. We witness to Italian Catholics who don’t know how to come to Christ or how to worship Him; most of their prayers are to the Virgin Mary, who is considered holy. I have no Christian friends in Italy, besides my brother. In the last year I’ve really felt the need to share my feelings and struggles with someone who could completely understand. Outside the house I was put under too much

SUMMER MISSION *95 in northern Alberta and British Columbia

July 1 to Ausust 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 call to; Evangelical Mennonite Conference Box 1268, Steinbach, MB ROA 2A0 Phone: (204)326-6401 Fax: (204) 326-1613

PAGE 8

pressure because all my “friends” smoked and took drugs. My parents sent me to BFA, hop­ ing that it would help. It really has! It’s just in­ credible to have a Christian next to me every hour of every day. All my friends have been in the same situation I was in and they under­ stand the problems 1 face, but I’m also driven to be a good example and testimony, since there are many non-Christian MKs at the school. Being away from my family is a bit differ­ ent, but it’s not hard for me and I know that God is helping me. The most important les­ son that I’ve learned since I’ve come to BFA is how powerful the Lord is. It’s so incredible to see how He works out the small things in my life. No matter how mighty He is, He’s still interested in my small life. Realizing this. I’ve

really learned to put my trust in Him and to carry everything to Him. I’m very anxious to go home and see my fa­ mily as Christmas draws nearer. I’m not sure yet what we’ll be doing, but everything is fine with me as long as I can be with them. You may be wondering what Christmas is like in Italy. Well, it’s very similar to the Ameri­ can Christmas. I only noticed one small differ­ ence — Italian manger scenes are always very complicated. Streams of water and flashing lights, mills, farms, lakes and houses all sur­ round the small bam where the Baby is. Italian Catholics’ lives are the same way — they don’t put much emphasis on Christ but on what sur­ rounds Him, such as good actions and going to church faithfully. Alanna Bartel

VENEZUELA

What Do You Do? How Can We Pray? Thank you for asking! When 1 am asked what I do in Venezuela, 1 say I teach in a boarding school for mission­ ary children in the jungles of southern Venezuela. What does that really mean? The teaching part is much like teaching in any Christian school in Canada. The sur­ roundings are somewhat different, of course. We swim while you skate; we swat gnats while you shovel snow; we make our school and grocery orders months in advance while you hop in a car and do your own shopping. Our students are flown in while yours are bussed to school; our students live in dorms for eight weeks at a time and then go home for two weeks while yours go home nightly. This last point may be the most significant difference. Let me elaborate somewhat on it. To do so, ni take you on a quick “tour” through our jungle to show you where missionaries work. If you have a world map, find Venezuela in South America and locate the southern tip just north of the equator. It is in this general area where most of the following villages are located and where the parents of our students live, in villages, very primitive and isolated, with little exposure to the outside world. Acanana — a Yekuana village, one of the first tribes reached here. The older generation with its spiritual enthusiasm is slowly being replaced by younger folks who lack teaching in the face of worldly pressures. Please pray for the new workers being trained to meet this growing challenge. Cano Iguana — a Yuana village, another one of the first tribes contacted. The work here has seen an incredible number of setbacks and a lot of missionary turn over. It is still in the early literacy and translation stage. Please pray that the forces of darkness will be bound and that teaching can begin. Chaparalito — a Pume village, one of our newer works. Language learning, translation

and teaching went amazingly smoothly. After teaching through the Bible and laying firm foundations, there is beautiful evidence of spiritual understanding and growth. Please pray about recent accusations and attacks on the work from outside sources; pray for wisdom, safety and continued spiritual growth, Colorado — a Panare village. A situation similar to that in Chaparalito in both progress and recent difficulties. Please pray as leaders are being trained to teach their own people. Coyoatcii — a Yanomamo village, one of the earliest works here. There has been much teaching over the years. After recent renewed efforts, using the chronological approach in laying firm foundations, eyes are being opened to see what sin is and to understand that Christ’s work on the cross is our only hope. Malaria is a constant threat. Please pray for health, endurance, wisdom and continued spiritual growth. Maraca — a Piaroa village. The situation is similar to the Yekuana one. Recent foundational teaching is seeing very encouraging results — a hunger for further teaching and eyes being opened regarding the “grace versus works” issue. Many villages are being

THE MESSENGER

i

reached from here. Many are caught up in a very legalistic works emphasis. Pray for con­ tinued growth. Marueta — a Maco village, our newest work here. Still in language and culture learning stage. Please pray for endurance and con­ tinued progress in learning. Northern Venezuela — the Guajiro tribe. Mostly city dwellers but need much teaching and attention in their own cultural setting. Please pray for the family working there alone. Parima — a Yanomamo village. Covers a large area and reaches out to many small vil­ lages. A situation similar to the one at Coyoateli. Please pray about malaria problems and for further understanding as foundational teaching and translation continues.

Parupa — a Ye’ kuana village. Please pray for the new families moving in and learning the language, etc. Yajanamateli — a Yanomamo village. Please pray for the new workers moving in who already know the language but are fac­ ing some resistance as they are exposing a seeming pretence of having understood the Gospel. This can happen when the people think by conforming they will earn more material benefits like medicines, etc. Please pray for wisdom. Caracas, Ciudad Bolivar, Puerto Ayacucho — our city offices and Spanish course. Our supplies, paper work, finances, mail, med­ ical and travel needs, etc., are handled here. Please pray for endurance and for wisdom in

public relations situations and in decision making. Tamatama — home of the Robert Shaylor Academy and my home, along with fellow staff members and approximately fifty stu­ dents each year. About 1 'A hours by small plane from the nearest city, two or three days by boat, no roads. Also located here are three native villages, each with their own school and trained native teachers. Please pray as we seek to meet the needs of our own students and at the same time seek to be an encouragement and spiritual help to our native brethren. Thank you for your continued prayer and financial support. Amanda Barkman

Mission agencies search for answers to declining constituency support Chicago, III. (Meetinghouse) — “We are hang­ ing on — by our fingernails.” That’s what personnel from Mennonite and Brethren in Christ mission agencies told each other here December 11-15 at the annual meeting of the Council of International Minis­ tries (CIM). Having focused on the world and the church in previous meetings, this year CIM turned its attention to itself with the theme “The Health of the North American Mission Enterprise.” “What are the signs of health and struggle in your agency?” they asked each other. Jack McClane of Brethren in Christ Mis­ sions, Grantham, Pa., was the first to use the fingernail imagery. His report told of declin­ ing financial support, which has meant a decrease in the number of missionaries spon­ sored by his agency. Others picked up the theme. Mennonite Board of Missions (MBM), Elkhart, Ind., reported a decrease in overseas staff from a high of 127 in 1989 to 107 in 1990. For the Commission of Overseas Mission (General Conference), Newton, Kans., the decline has been from 133 in 1989 to 69 in 1993. Eastern Mennonite Missions (EMM), Salun­ ga, Pa., reported a 15 percent budget cut in the last fiscal year. Mennonite Brethren Missions/Service (MBM/S), Fresno, Calif., had a surplus of $600,000 in 1990; it will have a deficit of almost that much in 1994. Once projecting 200 overseas workers by 1995, it has had to cut from 125 to the current 84. Len Sawatzky of the Evangelical Mennonite Mission Conference, Winnipeg, Man., charac­ terized his agency as “going right down to the tip of the fingernail.” The number of mission­ aries EMMC has been able to place overseas has been cut in half in the past nine years. For only one group have the past years been better than hanging on: the Evangelical Men­ nonite Conference, Steinbach, Man. Henry Klassen reported an increase of $300,CXX) in overall funding, mainly through the use of spe­ cial projects. The number of missionaries with EMC has also remained constant, though many are “seconded” to work with indepen-

January 11, 1995

dent mission agencies. Why the decline? For some CIM members, the answer for lessening missions support can be found in a new generation of Mennonites that has not caught the mission vision of a previous one. “There’s a disconnectedness of Baby Boomers and post-Baby Boomers with the mission enterprise,” said Stanley Green, president of MBM. Others charged that the individualism and affluence of Western culture has diverted the church from its primary task. “Church mem­ bers have changed from stewards into con­ sumers,” said Sylvia Ronsvalle of the Empty Tomb, Inc., a resource leader for the CIM gathering. Ronsvalle would shift the focus of the cri­ sis away from agencies to the constituency. “Mission agencies are just products of their constituencies,” she said. “We have not developed a sound Western theology of money,” Ronsvalle went on. “We cannot even discuss our finances with people in the church. The area of stewardship, if it is touched at all in our seminaries, is general­ ly seen as a necessary evil.” For Ronsvalle, a theology of money would relate stewardship to discipleship. She indicat­ ed surprise that such a theology has not been developed in light of all the references to finances and stewardship in the Bible — “more than on prayer,” she said. When challenged that stewardship is more than money, she replied: “But [money] is a North American sin we need to deal with. If we let one little crack in the door and say our problem isn’t money, everyone will stream out that crack.” Cosmetic changes so far. Hugo Zorilla, a member of the MBM/S board and a profes­ sor at Fresno (Calif.) Pacific College, called for major changes in Mennonite mission strate­ gy. A former pastor in Colombia, Puerto Rico and Spain, Zorilla placed particular emphasis on missionary training. “Many missionaries have never evangelized in their cultures, and now they want to plant churches in other cultures — often in the worst Western manner,” he said.

“We have not found a Mennonite way of do­ ing mission,” Zorilla went on. “Yes, there have been changes, but these have only been cosmetic.” After 2 ’/z days of lectures and discussion, CIM members agreed that the church needs a new vision for mission. They also agreed a first priority for this vision must be to capture the imagination of youth. That agreement came after three young adults challenged CIM to develop this mission vision for the church. “Give us a new vision that will inspire our generation like the Anabaptist Vision did a previous one,” they said. In a closing session, two recently appoint­ ed mission board presidents — Richard Showalter for EMM and Stanley Green from MBM — spoke of their visions for missions for the future. Showalter said he finds his in the fact that between 3,000-4,000 “people groups” in the world have not yet received the gospel. “There are many people...who have never met a Christian, whether through a cup of cold water or through a witnessing community,” he said. Green called for the church to recover a sense of identity in mission. Early Anabaptism was primarily a mission movement, he said. “I believe God is calling Mennonites to share a message of peace with the world...good news rooted in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.” Signs of health. CIM agency personnel told each other not only of their struggles. They also gave signs of hope. One was the partnerships for mission work many of them have developed — with each other and with churches around the world. Several also cited “grass roots” interest in mis­ sions, including congregations who come to their agencies asking for help in sending mis­ sionaries to different locations around the world. Another sign of health: “We are wrestling with the issues,” said the first of a list of ten summarized by a findings committee. — J. Lome Peachey, editor of Gospel Herald, Scottdale, Pa., for Meetinghouse. PAGE 9

Messenger News 1

The Nursery class with Jessica (Mary) and Colton (Joseph) at the Portage church Sunday school Christmas program.

Four- and five-year-olds: “Peace for the Nations.”

COMPLETING THE FAMILY PICTURE

Portage la Prairie, Man.: I didn’t give a complete “family picture” of our church dur­ ing 1994 International Year of the Family. Two groups I didn’t report on are the Young Marrieds and the Middlers. When you add your age and your spouse's age and stay be­ low 70, you are still in the young marrieds, but exceed 70 and that automatically classifies you as a Middler! These groups were or­ ganized during the past year. The Young Mar­ rieds is under the direction of Brian and Vicki Rushton. They had three events — a canoe­ ing treasure hunt, bowling evening and gym night, which ended at the youth drop-in centre for a social evening. The ladies presented their

Texan and Japanese lighting candle

MISSIONS ENCOUNTER

Rosenort, Man.: Our missions committee had a novel idea and lined up opportunities for personal involvement in missions. The new “missionaries” reported on this involvement at a missions evening December 4. Bryan Loe­ wen, along with Pastor Kroeker and a few others, visited the El’ Dad Ranch and helped to cut logs and split firewood together with the young offenders who are “farmed out” there (not all are young in age). Ron and Wendy PAGE 10

hubbies with corsages.

Ed and Mary Nikkei are the leaders of the Middlers. They met for two special occasions — a barbecue and social evening and a bowl­ ing night. December brought with it many church ac­ tivities. An adult banquet was planned and or­ ganized by the Ladies Fellowship. Jerry and Phyllis Plett from our "sister church,” Mac­ Gregor, were our special guests. Thank you, Jerry, for the devotional. The “Heading Home” quartet from Austin provided us with great in­ spirational singing. Thank you! Our mission­ ary couple, Ken and Vai Zacharias, also joined us for the evening.

Two days later, December 4, the church fa­ mily had an Appreciation Potluck dinner for Pastor Karl and Grace and family. We got together to eat and recognize their service to us. Opportunity was given for anyone who had something to say to them, and the ministerial leaders and congregation gathered around the Goertzens for a prayer of blessing for their future. December 18 the Sunday school present­ ed a Christmas program, under the direction of Paul La Pratte and Londa Nikkei. Each class did their own thing and involved as many individuals as possible, from the nursery to the youth. Catherine Epp

Ed Nikkei’s class of six- and seven-year-olds,

Riley Slater (left) and Stephanie Boese at the Sunday school Christ­ mas program.

Kroeker went to Stony Mountain and Rock­ wood Farm under “Open Circle.” This brought back memories for Wendy, who grew up right next to Rockwood. Both of the above outreaches are sponsored by MCC. Ed and Annie Kroeker went to The Pas, where Northern Canada Evangelical Mission has stationed Dennis and Amanda Anderson, a couple we have known and loved for many years. For most of their visit, Ben and Helen Kroeker were “subbing” for their children (for a missions encounter of their own). The na-

tive Christians of the Umperville Reserve are very happy for a “new” church building, which they paid for and helped renovate (building materials came to $17,(XX)). Vic Loewen had visited the Redboine Bap­ tist Church in Winnipeg, which is also an out­ reach to native people. Wilbert and Lena Dueck helped in the kitchen and the drop-in centre of the Union Gospel Mission in the city. Quite a few of our youth went to the polio ward of the Municipal Hospitals to visit the patients, many of whom are in wheelchairs.

THE MESSENGER

f

Dana Loewen reported on four patients who have been at the hospital for 38 years or more. That was an eye-opener for those of us who have been only briefly hospitalized in our en­ tire lives. Nicole Kroeker also related her im­ pressions. Another project for our church has been to fill several barrels with nonperishable grocer­ ies for the Union Gospel Mission. Young and old seem to enjoy this. Our ministerial travelled to Cross Roads Range in North Dakota for a two-day retreat. It was an enjoyable time, which also included serious planning sessions for the direction of our church. The annual Canadian Bible Society rally for the Rosenort area was held in our church this year. Clarence Epp had been in the Ukraine this past summer, and witnessed firsthand the need for more Bibles. His slides and talk were very interesting and challenging. On November 20 we heard Lot Spence and Bill McNaim of the Union Gospel Mission give a testimony and a message, respectively. Lot is one of those who first came to the mission for food and clothing, but is now serving the Lord in helping others. George and Lily Bartel are working at a building project for a Christian college in Lithu­ ania. Their four weeks will be over in mid­ December. Imagine the conversation at their Christmas gatherings this year! It should be great!

Esther and Gordon Siemens with Aiex, at the parent/child dedication on July 24.

Tina Friesen broke her arm in a fall a while ago, and has since worn a cast. However, the arm did not heal straight, and she has had to go back for further adjustments. Mrs. John B. Loewen underwent hip surgery in Morden on December 5. She remained conscious through it all, conversing with the doctors. Plucky woman! Both ladies will need much patience. Others on the sick list include Mrs. P. J. K. Loewen and Mr. Henry D. Brandt, both in the Morris Hospital. John Kornelsen of Wymark brought us a very good message on December 4. His theme, “Your Heart’s Desire,” taken from Psalm 37:1-7, provided some deep spiritual truths for our digestion. Thank you! The Ladies Fellowship held their Christmas banquet on December 6, and invited their menfolk as well. The featured guest soloist was Andy Funk of Sanford who sings Christ­ mas from the heart. His wife helped him on a few numbers. The Christmas cantata, “Good News of Great Joy," under Lome Kornelsen’s direction, was performed before a large audience on De­ cember 11. The 41-voice choir sang to the glory of God, and the narrators, Peter and Anne Kroeker, read clearly from God’s Word in the intervals. It was an inspiring perfor mance, and we hope some of it will be repeat­ ed on Christmas Day. Leui Dueck

January 11, 1995

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

Parent/child dedication on June 26: Joe and Kathy Reimer with Kimberly, Terry and Clara Reimer with Lindsay, Cliff and Lucille Reimer with Allison, Al and Marlene Siemens with Heidi, Anthony and Jennifer Siemens with Nathan, Pete and Anne Harder with Rebecca, Doug and Cheryl Bergen with Christopher, Ward and Janine Parkinson with Racheal.

PARENT/CHILD DEDICATION

Mrs. Helen Koop celebrated her 80th birth­ day on April 22 with an Open House, with many kfriends and relatives attending.

Steinbach EMC: Three members were accepted on December 18. Left to right: Lynn Kroeker was received as a member, Jennifer Hieberf and Suzanne Teichroeb were baptized, with Pastor Arden Thiessen officiating.

Morris, Man.: Greetings from the Morris Fellowship Chapel! God is so good! Let us praise His name forever! Our church celebrated a parent/child dedi­ cation on June 26. Eight couples pledged themselves to nurture and bring up their chil­ dren for the Lord. The pastor spoke on being childlike in our faith (Luke 18:15-17). He went on to explain some of those childlike charac­ teristics: 1) a sense of wonder, 2) innocence, 3) simple trust, 4) forgiveness, 5) dependence. Ernie Siemens, our deacon, led in the dedica-

tion prayer. On July 24 we had another par­ ent/child dedication, with one couple present­ ing their son and themselves to God. In July we had our annual VBS, with many children attending. A mission Sunday, combined with our an­ nual Thanksgiving meal, took place on Oc­ tober 2. Several missionaries spoke in the morning service. At noon every one gathered in the lower auditorium for a fellowship meal. In the afternoon we had a panel discussion, with the missionaries taking part and Gladwin Plett giving us a missionary challenge. Helen Klassen PAGE 11

Sheryl Loewen went to Germany for six weeks last summer to help in building projects with other young people. They had good relation­ ships with the nationals. Bill Dyck, director of Youth Ministry Builders, finds his work very demanding — giv­ ing direction; counselling; consoling; encourag-

Ben Eidse brought the message on Sunday morning.

CELEBRATION OF MISSIONS

Winnipeg, Man. (Braeside); In October a Celebration of Missions took place in our church. Since my husband and I had made plans to visit our missionary children in Ger­ many and Ukraine during this time, I asked my friend Mary Reimer to take some notes for me and Ken Friesen, my photographer, to take pictures. Thanks to them. I can now share some of these with you. Sunday, October 9, Jon Bonk, professor at Providence College, spoke on the Anabaptist perspective of global missions. The emphasis was on personal, practical involvement: Prac­ tice hospitality: husbands, love your wives; do not forget to entertain strangers. His message was in the form of a story of a sheik, Bazing, in a Nepal prison, who noticed a smile on the face of a fellow prisoner. The testimony of this fellow prisoner started a chain reaction and, as a result, many came to know Jesus as Saviour. Are we as faithful in our witness for Jesus? On October 14, Friday night, the empha­ sis was on youth, with a lot of singing, accom­ panied by Braeside’s band, “Hero.” Heather Herrod talked about her experiences as a "mis­ sionary kid.” She had had multi cultural ex­ periences but was part of none. She found the inevitable “goodbyes” increasingly difficult. However, she had many good experiences and does not regret being an MK. Five young la­ dies, Lisa Doerksen. Elyse Hartman. Caroline Kroeker, Deidre Doerksen and Julie Hamm gave reports on their various “summer camp” experiences. The theme on October 16 was “EMC and Associate Missions." Ben Eidse based his mes­ sage on Matthew 22:37-38. He emphasized that we need to relate to people in our testimo­ ny, to demonstrate with our life, attitude, etc., the love of God. The Holy Spirit will guide you to someone, or someone to you, with whom to share the love of God. Be friendly, love them, show how Jesus loves. Les and Marianne Fast, career missionaries in Papua New Guinea, gave a report in the evening. Marianne had a very good slide presentation narrated by their nine-year-old son, Peter. Erna Plett reported on her work in Paraguay, where she works in a bookstore and helps along in various church programs (Sunday school, visitations, young people’s). PAGE 12

the Crisis Pregnancy Centre, has lots of op­ portunities to love her clients, who ask her, “Becky, why do you care?” Fellow Christians ask, “How many have you led to the Lord?” Becky finds courage in John 4:31-38, a challenge to be a sower, a testimony. Elmer Loewen has received many blessings in befriending new neighbours. One young couple, whom he had invited to church, have accepted Christ. The harvest is not finished until all the neighbourhood farmers have finished, helping one another. Burton Johnston told about testifying to a man who was keenly interested in his motor­ cycle. Burton had a Bible in his saddlebag and because of the cross on the cover the man thought it was a first aid kit — a wide open door to tell the man of God’s saving love. Our pastor, Ron Penner, summarized the evening’s testimonies with the thought that it

Ken Zacharias speaking to the Braeside adult Sunday school class.

ing youth, hurting parents and burned-out youth pastors. He is thankful for the strong support of his wife and two children. Evelyn Wiens found fulfillment as a school teacher, with the Christian Women’s Centre (Union Gospel Mission), in the MCC Ladies Auxiliary and as a tour guide. In the evening the focus was on home mis­ sions. Braesiders told of some of their ex­ periences in sharing their love for Christ. Melissa Matthews. Colin Doerksen and Elyse Hartman related how they attempted to share Christ’s love and be an example at school and at home. Another three teenagers presented a short skit to portray how love or lack of love was shown on a park bench. Joyce Dyck shared about her involvement with the Union Gospel Mission programs, babysitting in her home and hosting a Bible study group. Becky Goertzen, a counsellor at

MISSIONS CONFERENCE PcIIy, Sask.; We are busy practicing for our Christmas program, "A Christmas Made in Heaven.’’ to be held December 19. Our pray­ er is that God will help us to do our best for Him and that it will be an outreach into our community. Murray and 1 had the privilege of attending the Billy Graham School of Evangelism held in Lake Louise. October 31-November 3, time well spent. The importance of prayer in evan­ gelism was stressed over and over again. Im­ agine how God could work in our communities if we would just take the time to pray. We’re thankful to our church for allowing us this op­ portunity. Our missions conference is always a yearly

Three Braeside teenagers present a skit at youth night.

was love that motivated God to give His only Son. He quoted the words of this chorus, “Lord, lay some soul upon my heart, and love that soul through me, and may I nobly do my part, to win that soul for thee.” Are we going to show forth love? Elma Dueck

highlight and this year was no exception. Viv­ ian Anfinson has reported on that for us: Our missions conference was held Novem­ ber 4-6. The first evening, Kent Dueck. Direc­ tor of Inner City Youth Alive in Winnipeg, gave a report on some of the aspects of the work — the needs, the obstacles and the challenges they are faced with. Lester Olfert gave a mis­ sions report — an overview of the mission­ aries, numbers, funds, etc., and zeroed in more fully on the Mexico and Nicaragua churches. He spoke briefly on the changing power of Christ. Kent then brought a lively message from the life of Jonah. A time of visit­ ing in the lower hall over coffee and cookies completed the evening. Saturday evening we had the pleasure ofl

THE MESSENGE

J

meeting Benny and Esther Goertzen from Paraguay. Their presentation was a shared one as they sang and each had a part in tell­ ing about their work and family. In his mes­ sage Benny posed three questions: 1) Are we where God wants us? 2) Are we doing what God wants of us? 3) What will it take for God to get our attention? He used the illustration of Peter being called from his fishing business; the Lord had a greater purpose for him. Each one of us should strive to know whether we are where God wants us. He closed with com­ ments about the extent of Peter’s growth and commitment shown by his writing in I Peter 4:10-11. On Sunday morning Marianne Fast had a children’s feature and slides about their work in Papua New Guinea. They expect to finish translation of the New Testament this term. Helen Komelsen gave an interesting talk about how the Lord has led in her life of teaching. ...

Randall and Faith Krahn with John Reimer

PASTOR INSTALLED Roseisle, Man.: October 16 was a day of praise and thanksgiving for our congregation. We had the joy of receiving Randall and Faith Krahn as members in the morning service and then installing them as our pastor couple in an afternoon service. John Reimer spoke to us about the responsibilities of a pastor, as well as the responsibilities that we as a con­ gregation have to our pastor. Our double trio sang two songs before the message. Follow­ ing John’s challenge, we enjoyed special music provided by Steve Bell, Faith’s brother. The installation was led by John Reimer, which was followed by a dedicatory prayer. Our dea­ con couples and several other members par­ ticipated in the prayer of dedication for Randall and Faith. The Krahns then responded by ex­ pressing their joy about starting their work here and also their thankfulness to the con­ gregation for their love and support. Visitors included friends and family of the Krahns and representatives from neighbouring churches

January 11, 1995

She spent many years in Belize, then taught missionary children in Paraguay and now she is waiting for her next assignment. Lester Olfert brought the message, speaking from II Cor. 5:1121: All Christians are ambassadors. He closed with the thought-provoking ques­ tion, Are we faithful ambassadors? We had the noon meal together in the lower hall. Be­ cause we have missionaries from our church in Paraguay and Papua New Guinea, it was of special interest to hear from these places. It was a much-appreciated weekend.

Rylan Schroder. Laurel is Clifton and Sylvia’s daughter. We trust God will give you strength for a new year and that we will all be ready to serve Him in 1995. Linda Vader

Attention Youth Pastors Pelly Fellowship Chapel (EMC) would like a group of young people and leaders for Vacation Bible School at the end of July and/or the beginning of August 1995.

Viuian Anfinson

Our annual church bazaar and tea and bake sale was held on December 3. John and Anne Brown with “Springs of Living Water Books” had a display. We’re anticipationg the safe return of Clifton and Sylvia Abrahamson, who have been in Papua New Guinea visiting Tim, Laurel and and the E. M. Conference. A fel­ lowship lunch was served in the lower auditorium. We held our annual missions conference the weekend of November 11-13. We enjoyed reports from Leslie and Marianne Fast (Papua New Guinea), Harold and Alfrieda Fast (Pakistan) and Abe Giesbrecht (Paraguay). The Sunday evening service plans had to be altered somewhat due to a cancellation. So on rather short notice, Ernie Dyck from the Roseisle Gospel Hall came to share some of the experiences he and his family had while distributing Bibles in Russia. Throughout the weekend we enjoyed the music and sing­ ing, which was led by our “firstever” worship team. A big thank you to Faith for the time and effort she put into organizing us all. We also appreciated Eric Boorman’s contribution on drums. Thanks for coming, Eric. On November 18 we had activities to celebrate the Year of the Family. Those who chose to go swimming piled into the church bus and headed to Southport Pool for two hours of family fun there. Those who chose not to swim, enjoyed crokinole and other games in the church basement. We all gathered at the church for a lunch of hotdogs and chips following our physical and mental activities. Christmas has come and gone with its flur­ ry of activities. On December 21 we had one of those old-fashioned Christmas concerts. Each Sunday school class was responsible for their presentation. There was an excellent var­ iety of songs, skits and other spoken parts that helped us to celebrate Christ’s birth. The chil­ dren’s choir was led by Eleanor Friesen and accompanied by Elaine Friesen, Faith Krahn and Jeff Klassen. The children also visited the seniors at the Boyne Lodge in Carman the day

Contact: Pastor Murray Vader Box 389, Pelly, SK SOA 2Z0 Phone: (306) 595-2074

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:J si

I Steve Beil provided special music at the in­ stallation service.

before the concert and brought them CHRISTmas cheer. Throughout the Advent season we had the privilege of having some of the “Voices of Christmas” come to visit. Those who came to tell us of their experiences before and after the birth of Jesus were Zachariah, Elizabeth, Mary, the Angel and Simeon. It was interest­ ing to hear them tell their personal stories regarding events sunounding Christ’s birth. Somehow the faces and voices of these peo­ ple seemed very familiar. Thanks to those who helped bring the story of life. From all of us here in Roseisle, we wish you a happy and blessed New Year. Eleanor Friesen

May Cod give you peace and prosperity in 1995! PAGE 13

ISAAC JANZEN LOEWEN 1919-1994 Isaac J. Loewen, husband, father and grandfather, was called from this life to be with the Lord on Tuesday,November 29, 1994. He passed away in the Bethesda Hospital in Steinbach, Man., from the effects of a stroke, T having attained the age of 75 years. He was born in the Giroux area on Febru­ ary 19, 1919, the youngest son of John K. and Elizabeth Loe­ wen. He will be sadly missed by his loving wife, Rosaline, one son, Darrel (Winnipeg), two daughters, Rhonda and special friend Scott Playfair (Kenora, Ont.), Shannon and husband Russ Dyck (Steinbach); and two grandchildren, Matthew and Dustin. Other family members left to mourn his passing are his in-laws, Sarah Loewen, Mar­ garet Loewen, Elma and Henry Dueck, Tilly and Abe Eidse, Marion and Menno Reimer, Ron Friesen, Laurence and Linda Friesen, Carol and Vern Janzen, Myrna and Gord Friesen and Dave and Betty Friesen. He was predeceased by his parents, four sisters and three brothers. Dad was baptized on his confession of faith in the Lord by Elder Peter P. Reimer and ac­ cepted into the fellowship of the Blumenort Evangelical Mennonite Church in 1938. Dur­ ing World War II he took a Conscientious Ob­ jector stand and served at Clear Lake cutting pulpwood for four months, then at a lumber camp in Roblin till he was called home to the bedside of his dying mother. Dad married Rosaline Friesen of Kleefeld in 1952 and they began their married life in the home place of his deceased parents. They continued the operation of the dairy farm till 1970, when health problems necessitated a change of occupation. He found it hard to sell their farm and his dairy herd, in which he had taken pride. Mom and Dad built a house in the village of Blumenort. Dad obtained a job as bookkeeper at Ert Peters (Texaco), where he stayed until his retirement in 1988, after he suffered a heart attack. After his retirement, Dad had more time to pursue his woodworking hobby. He took up golfing with family members and friends. He and Mom enjoyed fishing in the Whiteshell and Crowduck lakes — just the two of them. Pull­ ing in a fighting fish or having a picnic lunch on a flat rock in a secluded bay in God’s coun­ try was always a highlight. They also enjoyed travelling, making it to Europe twice. Dad developed an ear for good music early in life. He took violin lessons and joined a com­ munity orchestra. With the dairy chores in the evening, it didn’t work out too well so he didn’t pursue it, something he later regretted. With his interest in music, it was no surprise that when the Ridgewood church was founded in 1958, he was its first song leader and choir

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PAGE 14

director, a capacity in which he served for many years. After his singing voice was per­ manently damaged during cancer treatments, he felt bereft. He consequently dusted off his old violin and joined the New Horizons Or­ chestra. He appreciated this opportunity very much and thoroughly enjoyed the friendship of seniors with similar music interests, as well as the pleasure they could provide for shutins. He often lamented the fact that he couldn’t play better and said that someday he would play no false notes or squeaks, in a glorious orchestra, praising his great Creator in heaven. In 1992, after medication could no longer relieve his angina pains, he underwent coro­ nary artery triple by-pass surgery in St. Boniface Hospital. Because of serious com­ plications, it took him a long time to recover. He could eventually resume a normal lifestyle and enjoyed several more years of good health. It was at 7 p.m. on Friday, November 29, when Mom and Dad were relaxing in the liv­ ing room that he slumped over in his favourite chair, with a paralyzing stroke. He was rushed to the hospital by ambulance. He deteriorat­ ed every day, his breathing becoming more laboured as pneumonia set in. On Tuesday morning, with Mom and Shannon at his bed-

side, he quietly and peacefully slipped away from us, never to suffer again. Dad was a caring, loving and gentle hus­ band, father and grandfather. He provided well for his family. He had a great concern for the spiritual welfare of his children and prayed daily for them. In his later years, he spent much time in Bible reading, often using a com­ mentary as a help. During the weeks prior to his passing, he was studying the book of Ro­ mans, using a study book. Saved by Faith. Mom and Dad talked about it briefly the day after his stroke. His speech was very slurred but Mom remembers these words: “I’m so thankful I am saved by grace because I don’t deserve it.” Mom will always cherish those last hours when he was still conscious (she held his hand and he responded with all the pres­ sure he could muster) and the endearing words of love they exchanged. We grieve deeply because we will miss him so, but we know he is safe in God’s hands, where no pain or sorrow will ever touch him again. We would like to thank all of you for your prayers, tributes, flowers, visits and cards, and the loving help we received from so many of you. The bereaved family/

PETER H. DUECK 1912-1994

and Margaret (Mrs. Martin Dueck), and by a number of cherished brothers- and sisters-in-law. Dad’s hard work and determination were evident throughout his career as bookkeeper/accountant for several local businesses, in­ cluding the Kleefeld Credit Union, Schellenberg’s General Store, Kleefeld Co-op, Steinbach Lumber Yards and Penner Trans­ fer. Dad’s dedication to serving people was equal to, if not greater than, his dedication to work. Many years were devoted gladly to the Kleefeld E. M. Church as Sunday school su­ perintendent, church treasurer and Conference representative. He also served diligently on the Hilfsverein and Estates Committee for the E. M. Conference. The Kleefeld community also benefitted from the years he served on the Gruenfeld School Board, the Parks and Recre­ ation Committee and the Kleefeld Refugee Resettlement Committee, to name just a few. Family was always one of the most impor­ tant things in Dad’s life. His love and commit­ ment to us were never doubted. We remember Dad as a man of principle and integrity. His commitment to God was deep and strong. Perhaps this was the reason for his enormous inner strength. With creativity and courage he fought the physical limitations he lived with all his life after a bout of polio as an infant. Although his struggle became quite difficult at times, especially near the end, there was neither bitterness nor complaint. Instead, the peaceful calm of his character and his kind generosity have given his family and friends an example to follow. “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.’’

Peter H. Dueck of Kleefeld, Man., entered the gates of heaven in peaceful dignity on November 27,1994. He died at the Bethesda Hospital in Steinbach, Manitoba. Our dad was born January 23, 1912, in Kleefeld, the son of Rev. Henry Remple Dueck and Katherine Reimer Dueck. He married Helen Hiebert, our mother, in 1937. He was predeceased by his wife, Helen, in June 1993, after a mar­ riage of some 56 years; by his daughter Joanne in 1961; his parents; his stepmother, Elizabeth Brandt Dueck; his brothers, Henry, John, Abram and Jacob; his sisters, Maria, Katherine, Anna, Elizabeth, Aganetha and He­ len; and also by a number of brothers- and sisters-in-law. He is survived by five children, who lean on his example of love and courage at this time of their bereavement: Lorna and Albert Hie­ bert, Louella and Dennis Friesen and Patricia Dueck (all of Kleefeld), Sandra Neufeld (Stein­ bach), Ron and Wendy Dueck (Kleefeld); eight grandchildren, Rhonda and Jim Friesen, Jona­ than Hiebert, Naomi and Nathan Dueck, Ker­ ri, Joelle and Andrew Friesen, and Jason Dueck; one great-grandson, Matthew; and a special niece, Terri Hiebert, who lived with our family during her childhood. He is also sur­ vived by his sisters: Nettie (Mrs. Pete Peters)

THE MESSENGER

AGATHA REDDEKOP 1911-1994 Agatha Dyck was born in Rosthern, Saskatchewan, on April 1,1911, to David and Maria (Quiring) Dyck. On December 13,1934, she married Jacob Reddekop. They worked at various jobs before they moved to their new homestead near Swan Plain, Sask., in 1936, where they farmed until 1954. Then they moved with their fami­ ly to the Maryfield, Sask., area, where they

managed a farm until they purchased their own land five miles northwest of Kola in 1958. They sold their farm in 1976 and retired to Kola. In the fall of 1992, Agatha had a stroke and it became necessary for her to be moved to Elk wood Manor in Elkhorn. Here she resided until her death on December 13,1994, the day of their 60th wedding anniversary. Left to mourn are her husband, Jacob; their children, Doug and Doreen (Steinbach), Geraid and Helen (Prince Albert), Jean and Jim Noone (Victoria), Philip and Carol (Wawota), Eunice and Dayton Reimer (Kola); 16 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Agatha is also survived by one sister. Mar-

ia and Abe Giesbrecht; two brothers/Peter and Katie Dyck and Frank and Ann Dyck; and I T I. three sisters-in-law, Justina Dyck,t Anne Dyck and Alvina Dyck. Agatha was predeceased by one daughter. Fay; one grandson, Elroy Reddekop; four brothers, Comey, Jim, David and Bill; and one sister, Elizabeth. She will be fondly remembered by family it

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and friends. “Precious in the Lord’s sight is the death of His saints.”

Births BARTEL - to Chester and Ruth Bartel of Morris, Man., a daughter, Leah Renae, on November 19, 1994. REIMER - to Joe and Kathy Reimer of Morris, Man,, a daughter, Carolyn Marie, on October 3, 1994.

JANZEN - to Marvin and Myrtle Janzen of Morris, Man., a son, Marshall Travis, on October .......... ... - . 11,1994.

Weddings WIEBE - KENNEDY: Howard, son of Henry and Thelma Wiebe of Morris, Man., was married on November 12, 1994, to Katie, daughter of the late Charlotte and Chris Kennedy of Winnipeg, Man., The wedding took place at the Fort Garry M. B. Church, with John Reimer of Pleasant Valley, Man., officiating. The couple is residing in Morris.

January 11, 1995

By the WAY

By Dave Schellenherg

FROM NOW ON I'll have a greater ap­ preciation for those wonderful wool comforters (VJolldaki), which I suppose have graced our homes as long as we can remember. Recently my wife thought it was time to make another one. Do you know how many stitches it takes to make one comforter? The one which was made the other day had 17 rows of stitches. I counted some 65 stitches in one row and over 100 in another! I suppose it could translate into over 1000 stitches in one blanket. Finally all was ready — the wool washed and carded. Helen’s sister and sister-in-law came to help. When I came into the basement where they had set up the frame I thought, why not give them a hand? It looked simple enough, I' cannot“ recall" ever having done this work before. Have you ever heard of a ntale stitching a comforter? But you know how it is nowadays, women are apo 11»* rzi'sHt/ ♦/-» folza /-ir* “tnon’e , */r\rlz ” patently ready to take onj’men’s work,

so why what is tradition­ ' not‘ men doing ' ally “women’s work” (within limits, of It looked easy. So unless there was a catch somewhere, I thought I could do it too. After some instructions and a minimum of assistance I began stitch­ Ing. ing- However, it didn’t take long until I humbly had to ask for a band-aid! I had pricked my finger. (It happened a second time before we were through.) Well, with a break in between, I did about two rows the length of the com­ forter. I felt quite proud of myself. But it bothered me a little that their rows looked neater than mine. That was to be expected — they had likely done this many times and for me it was a first. U WHEN MY FRIEND asked me to accom­ pany him to the Open House at the Legislative Building before Christmas, I thought I would do him the favour of going along. Before the event was over I had to revise my thinking — he had done me a favour by Inviting me. This Open House lets you meet MLAs and their families, an opportunity one does not otherwise get. It was impossi­ ble to see all of them in the short peri­ od allotted, but we did see our own MLA and at least one other. Meeting the Premier, the Honourable Gary Filmon, and his wife, Janice, was

a highlight. I had my camera with me and had been snapping pictures in some of the other offices. Here, for certain, I wanted to get the Premier greeting one of our party from Steinbach. However, before I could focus, I was told to come on the picture too! So there we were, the Filmons, my three friends and I all on the picture, while someone else handled the camera. I thought this was a gra­ cious gesture on the part of Mr. Filmon. Maybe the best impression was saved for the last, when on the grand staircase inside the Legislative Building, between the bison. Premier Filmon and the legis­ lators lined up to sing Christmas carols. The New Testament encourages us to pray for “kings and all who are in high positions...’’ (1 Timothy 2:2). And again, “Let every soul be subject to the higher powers...” (Romans 13:1). I hope this Open House and meeting some of the people who guide the affairs of our province will help me pray with more meaning than I did before. U U AS I SAT IN THE CHAPEL at Providence College and Seminary waiting for the wedding of our grandson to begin, my mind went back some 20 years when in the same chapel I had officiated at the wedding of one of our daughters. How time flies! One’s own wedding, our children’s and now grandchildren leaving father and mother and cleaving to wife or husband, experiencing all over again the mystery of such a union. But what a confirmation of God’s truth, “Male and female he created them.” And today young people still find each other, fall in love, and join hands in holy matrimony, as Kevin and Melodie did. They now embark on the sea of matrimony as my wife and I did over 54 years ago, and Kevin’s parents more than 24 years ago. I wonder why it is called sea of matrimony? I suppose a sea with its var­ ious moods could picture the married life. Do the marriage vows still contain the words for better or for worse and In sickness and in health? If so, then maybe this is part of the answer. So often, when asked, or we volunteer the information, we have said we have eight grandchildren. Now, with the ad­ dition of Mel, we must be careful to re­ vise ourthinking and say nine! And you can be sure we will do so with pride.

PAGE 15

From the Editor Inventory Time WHEN ONE OF OUR STORES served notice that it would be closed on January 2 for stock-taking, I was reminded of similar occasions in my parents’ store when I was a child. A day was chosen, usually right after New Year’s, when every item in the store would be counted and listed to prepare the annual inventory. Some things, like boxes of corn flakes on the shelves and in the warehouse, were easily counted. Others took more time. Bolts of cloth had to be unrolled and measured to determine the number of yards left. Fortunately nails did not have to be individually counted, but they had to be weighed, because that is how they were sold. It was a big job, and often additional help was brought in so it could be completed in one day. Closing the store for a longer period was not good for the business. Today the inventory in many businesses is controlled by computer. Of course, the necessary data must all be fed into the computer. But this is done on a daily basis throughout the year. Goods purchased are added to the inventory. Goods sold are automatically subtracted, thanks to the technological marvel of bar codes and scanners. Why do businesses go to all the bother of taking stock, or keeping track of their inventory? Because that is the only way they can calculate their net worth (cash plus value of inventory). By comparing the figures with results from previous years, the owners/managers can tell what kind of year they had. Was it a year of growth, or of recession? The business will then adjust its course, making changes that will hopefully make the business more profitable. Incidentally, the inventory is also part of the process of calculating the amount of tax owed to the government. IT SEEMS THAT pausing occasionally and taking stock of our personal lives is also a valuable exercise. Many Christians do this daily — evaluating their gains and losses at the end of each day. They make adjustments and course corrections that will improve their spiritual growth and service in God’s kingdom. The beginning of a new year seems to be a good time to make a special effort to stop and consider how far we have come in our spiritual journey. Obviously such a measurement is not as easy as counting items on a shelf PAGE 16

Another year is dawning. Dear Father, let it be, in working or in waiting. Another year with Thee; Another year of progress. Another year of praise. Another year of proving Thy presence all the days.

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Another year of service, Of witness for Thy Love, Another year of training For hoiier work above. Another year is dawning. Dear Father, iet it be. On earth, or eise in heaven. Another year for Thee. — Frances R. Havergal

or weighing a box of nails. And that may dissuade us from making an honest effort. But is such neglect good for the “business”? Rather than simply ask ourselves, “Am I better Christian than 1 was a year ago?” it may be helpful to consider one quality at a time. For example, have I become more considerate and compassionate towards the needs and feelings of others? Am 1 trying to be more patient and understanding? How arc my relationships with my spouse, children, colleagues at work, employees, employer, neighbour, etc.? Has there been improvement? How much? Do 1 reflect the love of Christ in my attitude and interaction with them? Am I drawing closer to God, becoming more Christ-like in my spirit, as 1 fellowship with Him and His children? Do 1 more consciously seek His will and direction in my plans? Has the past year been a good year, or has there been a recession? What changes can/must 1 make to ensure that 1995 will be more profitable, as measured by God’s standards? May God give you and me the integrity to answer such questions honestly and the strength to make 1995 the best year of our lives. — Menno Hamm

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

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