The Messenger March 8, 1995

The Messenger EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE

VOL VOL. 33 NO. 5

MAR. fi/95 8/95

A subsistence farmer poses with his pair of oxen near the village of San Jose in Nicaragua.

WHAT IS PRAYER? by Gari Brandt Prayer is such a vast topic that I feel somewhat like a mosquito in a nudist colony: There’s so much material to cover I just don’t know where to start! A million books could be written and yet still more could be explored about prayer. 1 have read a lot of books and heard a lot of sermons on prayer. Too many of them have left me with a guilty conscience that ‘T need to spend more time in prayer, ” or “I should go to more prayer meet­ ings.” Not that theses activities are wrong, but none of these pangs have ever helped me to actual­ ly do so in the long run. We need a view of prayer that is not only Biblical but one that will help us to pray with freedom, joy, energy and depth. he Bible tells us to pray constantly or “pray without ceasI ing.” This is either a ridiculous or impossible command or we have a too limited and incorrect concept of prayer. This brings us to the most basic question we struggle with: “What is prayer?” I have often echoed the request of the disciples, “Lord, teach us to pray.” Jesus answers with a short formu­ la. No! It is more than a formula to be “vainly repeated” (although it should be used with meaning). It is a pattern, a loaded poetic prayer. One could preach a sermon on each line! Jesus goes on to explain prayer in Luke 11:9 with three words: ask, seek, knock. A preacher once explained these as three schools of prayer: elementary, college and graduate school. Learning to pray is also kind of like getting to know your neighbour. First you yell across the back fence, then you go look for her in the back yard, and finally knock on the door of the house. Unfortunately, most of us are still in the elementary school, yelling across the back fence. In this arti­ cle, I would like to explore the deeper levels of prayer and to wonder together about the meaning of prayer. What is prayer? Is it silence or is it words? Is it solitude or is it community? Is it waiting or is it action? Is it listening or is it speaking? Is it seeking or is it receiving? Is it questioning or is it answering? Is it psychology or is it theology? Is it inside me or is it outside me? Is it always or is it now? I want to pray but I don’t know what it is. Lord, teach me to pray. First of all, prayer is a relationship with God, initiated by God, as Delia Smith says in the introduction to her book: Prayer is something that God does. If only we could grasp this simple truth. The trouble is that this something that God docs is essentially mystery: there are no neat for­ mulas, no amount of books on prayer can ever reveal just what it is that God docs.

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First and foremost, prayer is a relationship in which God is the initiator, constantly seeking to elicit a human response. It is an ongoing relationship and, like any other, it can’t be programmed or labelled and packaged — “this is prayer!” Prayer is life: living, growing, developing, but always in secret, like a tiny seed buried in the earth, steadily yet im­ perceptibly thrusting itself upward to the light. What is it that impels this seed upward? We know the earth and the rain sustain its growth, but what awakens it to life? That is a mystery, something that God does. Prayer is precisely like that: something mysterious within that gent­ ly pushes us towards that albeit unidentified light, which will ultimately bring u.s to the blossoming of our full poten­ tial and answer all our deepest longings.' Prayer is our longing for God put into words by such scrip­ tures as Psalm 42:1-2: “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?” Prayer is life: day and night, comedy and tragedy, ordinary and mystery. Prayer is my thirst for God that I live out in what I do all day, every day. Thomas Merton say.s that “to desire God is the most fundamental of all human desires. It is the very root of all our quest for human happiness.’” Prayer is the language of the heart, of the soul of every human being on the face of the earth. In fact, the whole world prays, every living creature in it, one way or another. Listen to Psalm 104:21: “The lions roar for their prey, and seek their food from God.” But human prayer is more than just “give us this day our daily bread” (or meat in the lion’s case); we also pray as Jesus taught us, “Our Father.” It is a prayer of intimate relationship, which animals cannot and do not enjoy.

Prayer is my thirst for Cod that I live out in what I do all day, every day. But we must remember it is a relationship which God initi­ ates. Prayer is not so much something we do, but something God does through us as we surrender our being to Him for His use. “Thus prayer is essentially a divine activity rather than a human one. It is our participation in the life of God as His life is lived in and through us.”^ The regular place of prayer is ordinary life. Prayer is our response to God’s initiative and action in our lives. “Prayer is language used to respond to the most that has been said to us (by God), with the potential for saying all that is in us.’’* Prayer is our part in a relationship with God which He in­ itiates.

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econd, prayer is a nakedness before God that includes honesty, transparency, confession and repentance. Jacques Ellul reminds us that prayer in the Biblical sense is “a renun­ ciation of human means. It is not merely the point beyond which I cannot go, the limit of my power which dissolves into impotence, but it i.s indeed a stripping bare, the abandonment of all human apparatus in order to place myself, without arms or equipment, into the hands of the Lord, who decides and

THE MESSENGER

Prayer Is not so much something we do, but something Cod does through us as we surrender our being to Him for His use. fulfils.”® Or more simply, as Mike Roe of the rock band “77’s,” says, “PRAY NAKED.” In this sense prayer is a bit like the prodigal son returning home: coming to the father, admitting guilt, frailty, weariness, helplessness, being honest before him. Prayer is confessing I can’t make it on my own. The son tried, I try, but we always end up saying, “I need you. Father.” The son needed to feel the futility of independence before he could find communion with his father desirable. He disco­ vered that his own incomplete and limited resources were just not enough. Our tendency is to be independent, selfprotective, “I can handle it.” But prayer means a loss of in­ dependence, breaking out of our self-protective shell and say­ ing, “I can’t handle it, I need you. Father.” So is it possible to be dishonest before God in prayer? Huck Finn has some good advice, which he learned firsthand. “Deep down in me I knowed it was a lie, and He knowed it. You can’t pray a lie, I found that out.” If we believe that God knows everything about us, as Psalm 139 says, even my hidden thoughts and my words before I speak them, then “anybody would have to be a consummate dummy to suppose that he or she could deceive God. Therefore, it is safe to say that when anybody above the lowest level of intelligence prays with any real knowledge that he is presenting himself naked before the all-seeing and all-knowing One, he is much more inclined to be honest than he is with anybody else. He has nothing to lose, since God already knows the whole of him. »»6 In this sense prayer is not always nice. It may even offend our sensibilities. Consider some of the Psalms (3:7; 6:4-5). We all come to prayer with a mixed bag of motives: confidence, confusion, hate, love, bitterness, anger, happiness, helpless­ ness, desire, skepticism, etc. “But God is big enough to receive all of us with our mixture. That is grace. Not only are we saved by it and live by it but we pray by it as well.”' We love it if our children come to us with even the most ridiculous requests. This is precisely how it is with prayer. We simply come before God, zits and all, and say, “Here I am, these are my concerns, worries, fears, struggles.” Prayer is a personal, honest diary before God.

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bird, prayer is being present where we are. It is paying at­ tention to who we are, where we are in the present. Presence comes in an act of prayer. For in the life of prayer we bring ourselves into an openness that makes it possible for us to be freshly aware of God’s presence. It is not that He is not present at other times but that by this voluntary act of ours, the act of prayer, we are enabled to break with our outer preoccupations and to become aware of the presence and of what that presence does to search and transform and to renew us and to send us back into life again. To be present, really present, is to be able to be hurt. And when pain is in prospect, it is so much easier to be elsewhere than where we are. How much interior emigration there is all about us!" Students wish for graduation or lament that life just isn’t like it was during last summer’s mission or camp experience. Parents long for when their children will be grown up and gone or that they would come home more often. Adults work for and live for retirement. Churches wish for the good old days without all the sins of the “new age,” or for the future when renewal will surely come. Prayer is living in the present. “To be present is to be vulnerable, to be able to be hurt, to be willing to be spent — but it is also to be awake, alive, and engaged actively in the immediate assignment that has been laid upon us. »»9 Prayer is acknowledging God in the midst of ordinary life, as this short poem by Elizabeth Barrett Browning illustrates: March 8, 1995

Earth is crammed with heaven and every common bush on fire with God. But only those who see take off their shoes, the rest sit and pluck blackberries. Moses, the educated prince, while tending sheep alone in the wilderness, recognized the God of the Ages in a flaming desert bramble. My children marvel at God in the intricacies of a spider’s web. Christian prayer is different from other religions in that it is firmly rooted in the earth, in the commonplace of daily life. The closer a person comes to God, the more He is “seen” in the normality of day-to-day existence. Yet who is it that “sees” God in the events of ordinary daily life? Are some people more sensitive, special in some way? And who are the blackberry pluckers? The key to these questions perhaps lies in the fact that Moses encoun­ tered God when he had deliberately taken time off to be alone. There is a time when we all, figuratively speaking, need to wander off from the pressure of life and simply be alone. Prayer begins with space, no more and no less. For­ get any magic formulas, and start with ordinary spaces and lonely places like bus shelters, car journeys, walks. If you want to get really earthy, the answer I once heard a priest give to a lady who protested she had no “spaces” was, how

Prayer Is being present to the world, to ourselves, to people around us, to God In all of these. about a sink full of dirty dishes? Now there’s a lonely place! Like Jesus, we must go away from people so that we can truly be “present” when we are with people. We can so easily settle for being blackberry pluckers, busy, yet too lazy to really set out and “see” the wonder of God, who doesn’t exist in some faraway inaccessible dwelling nor needs to be sought in temples or shrines. No, He’s so close. Right at the end of our noses, so to speak, in the whole of creation — but only those who see take off their shoes.''’ Prayer is being present to the world, to ourselves, to people around us, to God in all of these. In summary, we can say that prayer is a relationship with God, a nakedness before God and being present with God. But prayer is many more things; we have only scratched the surface. We don’t have to understand prayer to pray, we do not have to prepare, or take certain postures, or learn effec­ tive methods, or get into certain moods, or say the right words. “We just do it, and in doing it, we find out what we are doing, and then deepen and mature in it.”" The definitions of prayer we have explored have tremendous implications for both our personal and corporate lives. May we find new joy, vigour and meaning in life as we explore the depths of communion with God. 1. Delia Smith, The Journey into God 2. Thomas Merton, Seeds of Contemplation 3. Carroll E. Simcox, Prayer: The Divine Dialogue 4. Eugene Peterson, Working the Angles 5. in Donald Bloesch, The Struggle of Prayer 6. Simcox 7. Richard Foster, Prayer: Finding the Heart's True Home 8. Douglas Steere, “On Being Present Where You Are” 9. ibid. 10. Smith 11. Eugene Peterson, Answering Cod Cari Brandt, a graduate of Steinbach Bible College, Brandon University and Ontario Theological Seminary, was Youth Pastor of the Braeside EMC Church from 1988 to 1994. He and his wife, Cyndy, are currently Residence Directors at the Swift Current Bible Insti­ tute, Swift Current, Sask. They have three young children.

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Letters Usurping God's Authority I too have various questions and concerns about the death of Tracy Latimer, but also about the editorial of February 8. You say we are not to go about “usurping the authority God has reserved for Himself, “leaving the span of life in God’s hands.” In general, yes, but what does “playing God” include or leave out in specific cases? Does it mean taking a person’s life intention­ ally? Or giving (or withholding) medication to control pain which might have a secondary ef­ fect of shortening life? Does it mean not us­ ing life-support systems for people because if God wanted them to live they would breathe on their own? Or using life supports because God gave us the wisdom? Or, when doctors, families and ministers decide to remove life supports, is that “usurping” of God’s role? When is taking or refusing medication or sur­ gery an act for or against God? Generalities on the “sanctity of human life,” on “not playing God” and the need to protect life, must be said, but there is a further need; grappling with what to do in specific cases. Tracy’s case was one of active euthanasia. Sue Rodriguez’s was doctor-assisted suicide. The decision to not go to “extraordinary means” in medical care has been made (passive eu­ thanasia). Families in our Conference have made decisions to remove life-support sys­ tems. Are all these cases the same? Not to me. It seems to me that we as a church are more comfortable in public dealing with generalities.

PASTOR The Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship (EMC), Vanderhoof, B.C., invites applications for the position of pastor. Please send resume to: Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship c/o Ron Penner Box 377 Vanderhoof, B.C. VOJ 3A0 Phone: (604) 567-9983

while agonizing in private over specific situa­ tions. How does that help people like Robert and Tracy Latimer? Robert Latimer was part of a congregation. We need to enter more vigorously and publicly into specific questions. I find it sad that Robert Latimer decided Tra­ cy’s future alone. His wife, pastor, congrega­ tion and medical team should have had a role in the decision making. I certainly would have

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Creighton, Sask.

Peace Curriculum For Youth Launched WINNIPEG, Man. — In an increasingly angry and abusive world, the Christian spiritual heritage of peace is being lost to a culture of violence and retaliation. This month various Mennonite groups have been introduced to PEACE — Just Live It!, a newly released peace curriculum for high school youth, which will challenge youth to reclaim a Biblical peace heritage. PEACE — Just Live It!, published by Faith and Life Press, is the result of the coopera­ tive efforts of several institutions and individu­ als. Several constituencies of MCC Canada have expressed concern over the weakening of a peace position among their youth. In an effort to make the issue of peace relevant to young people. Marg Neufeld, MCC Canada Peace Office, initiated conversations with per­ sons involved in youth ministry in August 1993. The result of this consultation was a deci­ sion to invite Christine Neufeld, a recent University of Manitoba graduate and member of Sargent Avenue Mennonite Church in Win­ nipeg, to write PEACE — Just Live It!. A con­ sultation group supported and guided Christine’s efforts and included representatives from the Brethren in Christ, Mennonite Brethren, Conference of Mennonites in Cana­ da, Evangelical Mennonite Conference, and the Mennonite Conference of Eastern Canada. The curriculum uses a Bible-centred ap­ proach in each of the ten active sessions on Christian peacemaking. Every lesson begins with a situation that teens may experience, leads the student into the Scriptures to see what God has to say about the issue and con­ siders practical applications and ageappropriate responses to the situation. The Bi­ ble is at the centre, both literally and methodo­ logically. The curriculum is designed to broaden a teenager’s understanding of Biblical peace to include racism, the family, the media, gender

March 26, 3:30 p.m. April 7 - 8 Inter-Mennonlte Songfest ’95 Conference for Men March 17 - 18 featuring a mass choir In Search of a Gentler Spirit SBC/Tri-Conference conducted by Don Thiessen Fort Garry M.B. Church Leadership Seminar Summers Corners Public Winnipeg, Man. Seniors & Church Ministries School Phone: (204) 269-8555 Speaker: Katie Funk Wiebe Aylmer. Ont. May 19-22 Steinbach Bible College Phone; (519) 773-5095 Abundant Springs ’95 Steinbach, Man. April 1 - 6 National Youth Convention Phone: (204) 326-6451 "The Christian response to The Ray of Hope March 24 - 25 cult and occult influences” Speaker: Mark Vincent Conference on homosexuality Speaker: Ron Carlson Briercrest Schools New Directions lor Life Grant Memorial Baptist Caron port, Sask. Speaker; Joe Dallas Church Phone; (204) 355-4511 The Meetingplace Winnipeg, Man. Winnipeg, Man. Phone; (204) 477-5320 Phone: (204) 942-6353

COMING EVENTS

preferred a different decision. Perhaps your fi­ nal paragraph (if applicable and implemented in the Latimer case) might have helped. But in dealing with our response in the Latimer case, we should go beyond generali­ ties and respite. Or shall we leave that to the more liberal churches? Terri; Smith

issue, lifestyle choices and other areas. PEACE — Just Live It!, which includes photocopiable student handouts, is available through local Christian bookstores or Faith & Life Press (1-800-743-2484) for $24.95 Cdn. (CMBC and Eaith & Life Press) CONTRIBUTORS: Aluira Eriesen (Rosenort) is involved in chil­ dren’s ministries, visitation and training pro­ grams in Cuauhtemoc, Mexico. Rosanne Poffenroth (Calgary) and her hus­ band, Ron, are church planters with Gospel Missionary Union in Austria. Jake and Myrna Bartsch (Steinbach EEC) are working with youth at Camps 67 and 77 in Mexico. COVER: Photo by the editor.

NOTE: In the production of a periodical, the amount of material seldom “fits” the amount of space available. The space is always in mul­ tiples of four pages (12, 16, 20, etc.), so some­ times we have to look for additional material to fill the space. At other times (as in this is­ sue) we have to hold back some material for the next issue, when it will receive priority. Thank you for your patience. — 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 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 T-h PST. totai: $7.49. All correspondence should be addressed to Tbe 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

19-22, 1995, at MA (Mctnmd.

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Mark Vincent To communicate the truth that Jesus is our "Ray of Hope," we have asked Mark Vin­ cent to be our main session speaker. Mark currently serves as the director of pro­ gram for Camp Ami­ go in Sturgis, Michigan, The Fire and assists his wife, Lorie, as minister of "The Fire” consists of Tony Perkins, Joe Hill, youth for the Indiana-Michigan Mennonite Tom Miller and Nick Morgan, who are dediConference. cated to showing the difference Jesus Christ Previously, he served for ten years as a has made in each of their lives. They want youth pastor, associate pastor and senior to let youth know that "it's not all loud muspastor of the First Mennonite Church in Fort ic, smoke and lights," but that "Jesus Christ Wayne, Indiana, and, as a result, has an is real." “The Fire” began in 1989 and released abundance of experience from which to draw as he conveys Biblical truths. As a part their first album, “Burn Me Up," in Septemof his ministry in Fort Wayne, he helped de- ber 1992 and their second album, “The velop Afterskool Stop, an outreach minis- Fire," in July 1994. They are from Fridley, try to children in the inner-city neigh- Minnesota, and have done numerous conbourhood surrounding First Mennonite certs for Youth for Christ in a five-state area; Church, a ministry in which conveying they have opened for Mark Earner, the Newsboys and Bride. Christ as "the Ray of Hope” is essential. For those of you interested in his creden­ tials, Mark has a BA degree in Biblical studies from Fort Wayne Bible College (now Taylor University, Fort Wayne), an MA degree in ministry from Moody Graduate School, and has done additional graduate work at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary. Mark has been married to Lorie for ten years and they have two children: Autumn J . (seven) and Zachary (five). Mark also told Plstt and Liberation us he enjoys reading fiction, biographies. and first-century history; and he enjoys As some of you may know, "Danny Plett nearly all athletics, making music and eat- and Liberation" currently minister with the ing in new restaurants! Janz Team in Germany to bring the message

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of the gospel to Europeans. They will be on a tour of western Canada in the spring and will perform at Abundant Springs. Danny Plett is a Canadian who, before moving to Germany, toured with B. J. Thomas and Silverwind, and opened for Michael Card and Steve Camp. He has writ­ ten numerous songs and produced two solo records while still in Canada. The group has produced two albums in Germany: “Different Drum" and, most recently, "DPL." The ~ group includes one other Canadian, Brian Delamont, who was working as a recording engineer in Canada until he felt he should be doing something more than 30-second radio spots. So, he moved to Germany to work with the Janz Team in the recording studio, as a producer, and to help with tour organization for ‘One Accord,” the summer ministry team of the Janz Team. Brian also plays bass and writes songs. The third member of their group is Hein­ rich Reisich, who was born in the former Soviet Union near the Chinese border. He grew up in Latvia and was then able to emi­ grate with his family back to their German homeland. In addition to keyboards, Hein­ rich also plays guitar, bass, accordion and mandolin. He has been working with Janz Team for eleven years at hundreds of cru­ sades and evangelistic outreaches. All three members of “Danny Plett and Liberation" are concerned about reaching people with the gospel and are very willing to talk personally with people about the message they are presenting in concert.

Teen Sexuality Issues Evening Course at SBC - Parents and youth STEINBACH, Man. - -----workers arc invited to participate in a four-

church in St. Boniface, anc1 Duerksen a, teen counsellor at Youth for Christ in Steinbach

La Crete Christian Fellowship (EMC) La Crete, Alberta is inviting applications for the position of

SENIOR PASTOR help youth caregivers -------------with today’s youth sexuality issues from a bib­ lical perspective. “Breaking the Barriers: Exposing the Myths of Teen Sexuality” will be taught by Don Boddy of Winnipeg and Bev Duerksen of Steinbach. Boddy, pastor of a Mennonite Brethren

ministering to youth. “Breaking the Barriers: Exposing the Myths of Teen Sexuality" will be offered Tuesdays, 7 to 10 p.m. at SBC, through its Christian Community Education Division. The course begins March 7 and concludes March 28.

with duties to commence September 1, 1995

Please contact: Isaac Dyck Phone; (403) 928-3749

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March 8, 1995

SBC/Tri-Conference Leadership Seminar

Seniors AND Church Ministry Seminar Leadership Seminar

“Seniors AND Church Ministry” is the fo­ cus of the 1995 SBC/Tri-Conference Leader­ ship Seminar. Planned for March 17 and 18 at Steinbach Bible College, the seminar will feature keynote speaker Katie Funk Wiebe of Wichita, Kansas, and an impressive list of workshop leaders. The theme “Seniors AND Church Ministry” intentionally includes two aspects of ministry: ministry TO as well as BY seniors. This means there are two specific target groups for this seminar: those who identify themselves as seniors, as well as those who wish to be­ come better caregivers. Speaker Katie Funk Wiebe ably exemplifies the dual focus of the seminar. She is well quali­ fied both in terms of personal experiences and in giftedness as a communicator and caregiver. A Positive Look at Aging

Katie Funk Wiebe’s publications on aging Soon to be released:

The Krahn Family History 1744-1994 This book includes the story of the Krahns and their migration from Russia to Cana­ da to Mexico, as well as a family register dating back to the early 1700s, and also a collection of photos of the Isaac P. and Agatha (Teichroeb) Krahn family. To order, send $45.00 plus $5.00 shipping and handling to: Ernest J. Dyck Box 1060 La Crete, AB TOH 2H0 Phone/Fax: (403) 928-2116

and church ministry include Life After 50: A Positive Look at Aging in the Faith Commu­ nity (Newton, KS: Faith and Life Press, 1993). Wiebe is both editor and chief author of the book, which includes contributions by nine other authors who are seniors or have worked with seniors. Life After 50 is thoughtful and mind stretch­ ing but not “academic.” Instead, the authors discuss themes such as hope, adjustments and the role of the church in an easily under­ standable way. The book’s subtitle, A Positive Look at Ag­ ing in the Faith Community, reflects the thread of hope running through the book. The title of the first chapter, “If You’re Going to Be Old, Now Is the Time,” sets the stage for this basi­ cally positive approach. In today’s world, the number of seniors is increasing; they live longer, feel younger and have many more op­ portunities for new experiences than seniors have ever had before. Although it takes a positive slant, the book does not ignore or downplay the complications of aging. Growing older does mean loss. This requires major adjustments. Loss is discussed, but the authors focus on how saying goodbye to losses opens the door to saying hello to new opportunities. Perhaps a humorous quote by “Fred,” an 86-year-old in a wheelchair, illustrates the at­ titude of one who has handled adjustments well. He says he and his wife “decided that whoever can push the wheelchair will be the head of the home.” Aging and the Church

The centrality of the church is another com­ mon theme. The authors discuss not only how

Winnipeg Mennonite Elementary Schools Inc. The mission of the Wlimlpeg Meiuionlte Elementary Schools Inc., Is to provide quality, Christ-centered education Integrating faith and life within a oaring school community. I RAIN l/P A f HIIO.

■ Grades K to 7 ■ Strong academic program ■ Caring Christian environment ■ Department of Education curriculum ■ French, German and Music Programs ■ Up-to-date computer lab • Bus transportation available

Applications for students are being accepted for both locations For more Information call the school offices

880BedsonSt.,St. James, Ph: 888-1033 86 Agassiz Dr., Pt. Garry, Ph: 861-9637 PAGE 6

seniors need the church but that the church needs the contributions of seniors. Because they have time and experience, “Older be­ lievers are the only ones who can teach the next generation that the Christ-way works at every stage.” Contributions of seniors are not limited to “doing.” Instead, the editor emphasizes that seniors need to get a sense of worth from sim­ ply “being,” not only from "doing.” The authors do not merely repeat wellaccepted assumptions or conventions. They question practices like seniors distributing as­ sets to their children in order to have the state medical plan pay for nursing home costs. Even though this is legal, one author asks whether this is an acceptable ethical choice or if the church needs to discuss this issue. Federal spending on the elderly is also ques­ tioned. The U.S. federal government report­ edly spends ten times as much per person on the elderly as on children, even though only 12 percent of the elderly live in poverty com­ pared to 21 percent of children. The author, a senior, asks if “seniors [are] demanding too much and thus short-changing the next generation.” Relevant to All Readers Although the title of the book suggests it is a book for seniors, it is also an excellent book for other age groups. In the first place, it helps readers to understand seniors and thus to destroy negative stereotypes. Second, it can help younger people prepare for aging because it reveals that the way seniors handle major life adjustments is largely dependent on pat­ terns established in youth. The aging process is inevitable, but people can prepare for it. I would encourage you to prepare for the seminar by reading Life After 50: A Positive Look at Aging in the Faith Community. — by Stan Plett, SBC President

EDEN MENTAL HEALTH CENTRE Nursing Unit Coordinator (full-time) — provide leadership, sup­ port and direction to ward staff in order to ensure provision of a high standard of nursing care in the Centre’s 40-bed In­ patient Unit. B.N. preferred; related experience and Manito­ ba licensure required.

Social Worker (full-time) — provide a range of therapeutic and support services to persons in the Centre's 40-bed Inpatient Unit. B.S.W. with related experience and familiarity with the Low German language preferred. Community Mental Health Worker (half-time) — provide ther­ apeutic and support senzices to individuals experiencing psy­ chiatric disorders. BSW, BScMH, RPN or equivalent training and experience are desirable qualifications. Familiarity with the Low German language preferred.

Eden Mental Health Centre is a service of Mennonite churches and the Province of Manitoba and is located in Win­ kler, 120 km southwest of Winnipeg.

Direct applications to: Personnel Eden Health Care Services Box 129, Winkler, MB R6W 4A4 Phone: (204) 325-5355 (204) 325-8742 Fax:

THE MESSENGER

Congregational Caregiving Class WINNIPEG. Man. — For the Sunday school quarter, September to December 1994, about thirty adults gathered every Sunday at Fort Garry EMC to learn more about Congregation­ al Caregiving. The class was developed and led by Rhonda Reimer and Ed Barkman. A church is a community of many people — people of various ages, abilities, cultures, and interests — and somehow, despite this diversity, there is a unity. Being part of a con­ gregation means that everyone is connected in some way to each other — all are part of a “web” of relationships that makes a congre­ gation a unique caring community. So who are we? And what does this mean? What are the implications of belonging to a congregation? As a community that Christ has created, we have a right and responsibility to care for each other. Some of us are profes­ sional caregivers, others are very informal and low key in their caregiving. Everyone’s way of giving care is important. The purpose of this class was to help us become better caregivers by empowering us to respond in a helpful way to situations where we often feel uncomforta­ ble and/or awkward. This was done by invit­ ing several resource people to help us, as well as hearing from fellow members about how they have been cared for (or needed to be cared for) when facing difficult situations in their lives. People also shared about ways in which well-intentioned friends in the church had increased the pain and confusion in their

STEWARDSHIP CONSULTANT The EMC Board of Trustees is invit­ ing applications for a part-time posi­ tion of Stewardship Consultant. Qualifications include: - enjoys meeting people - able to travel extensively in Canada - able to communicate in English and German - basic understanding of stewardship and church financial issues Responsibilities include: - assisting people in estate planning, including the preparation and updating of wills - promoting the involvement of the Conference - raising funds for Conference ministries - speaking at stewardship and financial seminars - co-ordinating regional stewardship efforts Applications to be submitted by April 30, 1995. Projected starting date is September 1995. Contact: Henry Klassen Executive Secretary EMC Board of Trustees Box 1268 Steinbach, MB ROA 2A0 Phone: (204)326-6401 Fax: (204)326-1613 March 8, 1995

attempts to be helpful. We discussed experiences of death and grieving, children with special needs, mental illness (including several types of depression), unemployment, caring for aging parents, and living with a chronic illness. For discussion on death and grieving, mental illness, depression, and unemployment, we used a resource per­ son one Sunday to give us an overview, and then heard a personal story relating to the topic the following Sunday. Planning the class seemed like a daunting task at first, but when September came around, everything seemed to fall in place. People in our congregation were willing to share — some as resource people and some more personally — and that had a powerful

effect on the rest of us. Only two people from outside our congregation were brought in and they came as resource people. Response from the class was very positive. We had a consistent group of 25 to 30 peo­ ple attend each Sunday. We want to com­ mend these folks for their faithfulness, and for their caring, compassionate responses to sto­ ries that were sometimes difficult to hear. We owe the success of the class to those who were brave enough to share personally with us. It is our hope that those connections that make Fort Garry EMC a unique community were strengthened and that class participants were affirmed for the caregiving they already do and challenged to continue to walk along­ side those who are hurting. — Rhonda Reimer

The panel at the EMC student luncheon at the University of Manitoba on February 6 included (left to right): Diane Hiebert Murphy (Faculty member in Social Work), Renae Fast (third-year education student), Al Hiebert (moderator and Board of Church Ministries member), Tim Rogalsky (third-year student in applied Mathematics) and Glen Klassen (Professor of Microbiology with research in genetics).

Thinking and Living Christianly at University WINNIPEG, Man. — Although it was the week before mid-term exams, more than 50 EMC university students showed up for the pizza and pop and panel discussion. Al Hiebert, who moderated the two-hour “come-andgo” meeting, had asked each of the panellists to identify several areas of concern. Diane Hiebert Murphy discussed the tenden­ cy to live an unbalanced life — either focus­ ing on the academics or being distracted into social activities. “We need to maintain the spiritual side of our lives, even grow and ex­ pand in that area,” she said. “Strength to stand up for what you believe," was the first concern that Renae Fast men-

YOUTH PASTOR The Evangelical Mennonite Church of Swift Current invites applications for the position of youth pastor.

Please send resume to: Pastoral Search Committee Myles and Cindy Penner Box 1165 Swift Current, Sask. S9H 3X3

For more information please contact Myles and Cindy Penner, phone (306) 773-8073.

tioned. She suggested our actions will arouse people’s interest. “We can answer their ques­ tions,” she said, “while we respect their rights as non-Christians.” Glen Klassen, from his experience in science, spoke about “defending the truth as you know it from experience.” This includes presenting the Christian alternative view of natural law, for example, which includes moral and emotional dimensions. Sharing one’s faith, was Tim Rogalsky’s opening statement. He told of befriending some of the foreign students in his classes, one of whom has become a Christian. Several other themes were discussed. Al Hiebert concluded, “The more we think and live Christianly, the more the Lord will be praised through our witness.”

TAPES AVAILABLE The panel discussion was recorded on audio tape. Anyone interested may either borrow the tapes or purchase a set. Borrow — no charge, for three weeks Purchase — $5.00 per set Mailing (borrow or purchase) $1.00 No charge if picked up Evangelical Mennonite Conference Box 1268, Steinbach. MB ROA 2A0 Phone: (204) 326-6401

PAGE 7

Missions

Peter Friesen addressing the inauguration audience on the purpose of a school.

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Jake and Myrna Bartsch, Judy Dueck and Eddie Kornelsen singing at the inauguration service.

MEXICO

New School Building Inaugurated The congregation of the EMC church at Camp 77 and invited guests gathered at the newly constructed school building to dedicate the facilities to the glory of God and for the education of the children of the community. The building is located at Edental, five miles northwest of Camp 77. Peter Friesen, missionary and pastor of the Camp 67 congregation, gave the message, in which he talked about the purpose of educa­ tion and how the parents and church should be involved. Jake Loewen, chairman of the school board, related how the building was constructed and the cost of the project. Ac-

I

knowledgement was given to all who donat­ ed materials and volunteered their time. Spe­ cial thanks was given to the EMC Board of Missions, who provided an interest-free loan of $4,CXX) US. Jake and Myrna Bartsch, Judy Dueck and Eddie Kornelsen provided the spe­ cial music. David Peters, a General Confer­ ence minister from the Burwalde congregation, had the closing prayer. The afternoon ended with coffee and dain­ ties, giving opportunity for fellowship with the people who had come from far and near. The first day of classes was January 11, with 22 students. Margaret Voth and Edna

Bojorquez are the teachers. Edna teaches the Spanish courses. More students will likely at­ tend in the future as parents see the effective­ ness of the school. Myrna Bartsch

Note: The school board would welcome SPONSORS for the poor families in the area. This year is es­ pecially difficult because of the drought and crop failures last year. Some families do not send their children to school because they lack the finances. Forty-five dol­ lars a month would sponsor one child. Donors should designate gifts “Edental School Scholar­ ship.”

..ei MEXICO

Expecting God to Work

Today I rejoice in the Lord

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The new school building at Edental built by the Camp 77 congregation.

CUBAN LEADERSHIP TRAINING PROJECT The Evangelical Anabaptist Mennonite Congregation of Cuba (CEAMC) has asked SEMILLA of Guatemala to assist them in developing and running a leader­ ship training program. SEMILLA is an Anabaptist Extension Seminary that directs a training program in Central Ameri­ ca and Mexico. CEAMC was started by US Mennonite missionaries a year before the Cuban revolution. Even though mis­ sionaries left a year later, the believers con­ tinued to meet in homes and this group has grown into several house churches. To date they have been unable to operate as a church recognized by the Cuban govern­ ment. They have requested recognition with a letter of support from the Cuban Brethren in Christ Church and the MenPAGE 8

nonite World Conference. CEAMC proposes to run four one-week leadership training courses during 1995 with 12-18 students. Some courses would be instructed by professors from outside Cuba. Average cost per course would be $1,515 Cdn. This would cover travel for the professor, books and materials, and some room and board for the students. The Board of Missions has approved a project of $1,500 to assist in this training program. We are looking for churches, small groups, or individuals to contribute to this project. Please designate gifts “Cuban Leadership Training” and make cheques payable to the E. M. Conference. Lester Olfert

• grateful for the gifts of His love • considering God’s guidance as our church group moved from a rented house to a hall to our present adequate building. • because of the fellowship and harmony within our church-planting team. • for the year of Sunday services we have completed in Cuauhtemoc. • as I expect Him to work in tonight’s Bible study at Josefina’s hair salon. • for the faithfulness of four adolescents: Ruby, Edgar, Angelica and Brenda. • for every evidence of spiritual growth in the group. I am concerned, however, • that in our Bible teaching we will not lose sight of our goal of establishing a church. • that women like Lidia and Ramona can par­ ticipate in one Bible study after another without making a firm commitment to Christ. • that our vision to reach new people will not diminish. • that you keep on praying for God’s work­ ing within the different areas of ministry in Cu­ auhtemoc. Alvira Friesen THE MESSENGER

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AUSTRIA

Celebrating My Birthday A Completely New Life For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saued it is the power of God (1 Cor. 1:18). Yesterday 1 celebrated my 41st birthday. I thank God that 1 could experience it. Another birthday makes me even more thankful. This year I’ll celebrate it for the eleventh time. My life has completely changed since this second birthday. The Lord has done great things and in this I rejoice. It was not easy for me, a religious Catho­ lic, to accept the fact that I was one of the un­ saved. As a child I already believed that there is a God and a devil and hence believed my­ self to be good. Later, my “faith” became more concrete as I called God good, and Satan evil, and identified myself with the good. I often at­ tended mass but the Bible didn’t mean any­ thing to me. In 1984, about July 20,1 realized I was a sinner before God and accepted Je­ sus Christ as my Lord and Saviour. During this time I began to read the Bible and my sinfulness became more and more evi­ dent to me and at the same time God’s grace became greater. This shocked me and made me so thankful, as I recognized that what I had thought to be good in my life was actual­ ly ego-centered. There was nothing in me that could please the Lord, and so I accepted God’s view of me — a condemned person. A peace, such as I have never known before, came into my life — darkness became light, the flowers

seemed more beautiful and the meadows had never been so green. The Lord wonderfully gave me healing and freedom; life seemed completely new. Before my conversion 1 was plagued with fear, ten­ sion and jealousy. Those who have grown up in a warm secure environment may not un­ derstand this. Someone who has experienced a torturing unfounded jealousy, which always returned with a crippling fear of the future, will really understand my joy and thankfulness. 1 couldn’t talk to anyone about my jealousy and no one knew how much 1 suffered because of it. One day the situation arose again and the jealousy had such a power over me that at that moment nothing seemed more inviting than death, but the peace and joy of the Lord took over and 1 realized later what had happened. In much the same way, the Lord freed me of fear. My original joy gradually became clouded over. I was involved in a charismatic group for a time and 1 eagerly read books by charismatic authors. It would take a book to tell you what 1 went through during this time, but as my socalled knowledge became greater, my trust in God and joy steadily decreased. The security was gone and faith became more and more a type of positive thinking. Health, success, wealth and miracles (mostly healing) became a standard or, better yet, a proof of real faith. The Bible portion in 1 Corinthians 1:22 and 23 made me rethink everything: Jews demand miraculous signs and Greeks look for wisdom,

but we preach Christ crucified. I found myself thinking like the first two groups but longing with all my being to identify with the latter. A terrible struggle began as 1 turned from this wrong way. Now, in writing about it, everything seems so clear but back then it wasn’t. 1 find it hard to describe my situation at that time. Some­ times 1 doubted whether Jesus would really be there at the end of the way, or would some­ one else await me? 1 put my whole trust in the Lord and 1 was sure that He had accepted me and forgiven my guilt. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. The Lord knows and loves me. He has done miracles in my life, including deliverance from the belief that He will meet my demand for a miracle. Maria K. (Translated by Rosanne Poffenroth) Maria is one of the leading members in the women's Bible study group.

Change of Address

Dora Friesen has returned to Canada, following many years of missionary serv­ ice in Mexico. She welcomes communica­ tion from her many friends. Address until August ’95: 104 Greenwood Box 21652, Steinbach, MB R5G 1B3 Phone: (204) 326-3942

After August: Box 109, R.R. 1, Morris, MB ROG IKO Phone: (204) 746-6631

Messenger News BAPTISM: TAKING A STAND Morweena, Man.: Last fall and early this winter were busy for our congregation. On Oc­ tober 2 our church was filled to capacity with friends and relatives as we welcomed five new members into our fellowship. Four young peo­ ple, TaraLee Loewen, Sharilyn Loewen, Corey Plett and Amanda Reimer, received water bap­ tism, while Mrs. Bea Dueck transferred her membership. Speaking at the baptism serv­ ice was Tim Reimer, a deacon and former teacher of the young people. Mr. Reimer challenged the new members on taking a clear stand. He outlined three areas where each would have to decide what stand they would take: 1) Taking a clear stand on black and white issues, which have the potential to cost dear­ ly (Joseph’s stand against Potiphar’s wife). 2) Taking a stand on issues that are misun­ derstood in our culture (deciding to be true or question our conscience [Daniel 1:8a]). Some­ times it means making up our minds to take a biblical stand on unpopular issues. 3) Taking a stand on deciding what will in­ fluence us (Ruth realized that her surround­ ings would greatly influence her faith [Ruth

March 8, 1995

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Baptism at the Morweena church. Left to right: Corey Plett, Amanda Reimer, TaraLee Loewen and Sharilyn Plett.

1:16]). Choosing what we read, listen to and watch are the fine tunings of our faith. November 25-29 we were encouraged and admonished in our personal payer life by guest speaker Gladwin Plett. Many adults, as well as the children, enjoyed the children’s stories told by Jean Plett. An ordination service was held for Henry and Vivian Plett, our new deacon couple, on December 11. It was a blessing and en­ couragement to see so many friends come out for this special occasion. Sixteen years ago a fledgling ministry was

begun in Seminole, Texas, among the Old Colony Mennonites who were immigrating from Mexico. This mission has expanded into Kansas and north Texas, where more of these people are pleading for leadership and spiritual help. A leadership seminar was held in our church on January 4 and 5 for these new mis­ sions. At the public sessions in the evenings we heard firsthand reports on the work God is doing in many lives. May the results of the Spirit at work in our own lives be our challenge and an encourage­ ment to others. Marlene Reimer

PAGE 9

The Pelly church Christmas program — “A Christmas Made in Heaven.”

A CHRISTMAS MADE IN HEAVEN Pelly, Sask .: Our ladies’ Christmas supper was held Monday, December 12, and was well attended. After a delicious meal we played some games, which helped us to get acquaint­ ed with the visiting ladies. Sylvia Abraham­ son, who had just returned from visiting Papua New Guinea, shared a video of Tim and Laurel Schroder’s work there. The evening closed with a gift exchange and the revealing of pray­ er partners from the past year. The ladies’ an­ nual business meeting was held January 10, and Laura Hamm became the new president of the group. Our Christmas program, “A Christmas Made in Heaven,” was presented December 19. The church was full, mostly community folk, as the Christmas story was portrayed, from Christ’s birth to His resurrection. Most of the church people, from children up to adults, were involved and God honoured their dedication to the task. We know of at least one commitment made for Christ that evening. On January 8 we welcomed Valerie Omelchuk to our church for the evening service. She shared of her plans to serve in the Ukraine with SEND International. She presented a full program, including a slide presentation and a solo with a thought-provoking message. We enjoyed a coffee and fellowship time follow­ ing the service, where we got to know Valerie and her mom better. Our annual church meeting took place on January 27 and we thank God for an orderly meeting. It’s now our responsibility to en­ courage and pray for those elected to serve

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God in various capacities We wish you all a good year as you serve our Lord and Saviour. Linda Vader

Winnipeg, Man. (Fort Gary): The Fort Garry church welcomed another group of ser­ vant Christians to their church on Sunday, November 20. Left to right: David and Jackie Hoehne, Myron and Shirley Loewen, Nicole Penner, Darrell and Chris Friesen. Their variety of involve­ ments in church ministries is much appreciated.

JB. Pleasant Valley, Man.: Left to right: 1. The Christmas Sunday school choir, led by Julie and Bonnie Friesen, in the drama/musical; 2. The nursery Sunday school class — part of the Christmas program; 3. Attic scene with Terrilee Siemens, Henry Bartel, Marshall Rempel, Brenda Kornelsen and Annie Bartel in the drama/musical “I Wish You Jesus.” PAGE 10

THE MESSENGER

«

I “Jingle, jingle happy bells — Jesus had a birthday on Christmas Day ..

“Let us go straight to Bethlehem to see the King of kings ..

TIMES OF JOY, TIMES OF SADNESS

MacGregor, Man.: In the past several months our church family has been emotion­ ally stretched from heights of joy to depths of sorrow. Rich blessings were received through the various ministries of our missionary confer­ ence weekend. A slide prelude, featuring the West Indies, Ecuador, Nicaragua and Bolivia (courtesy of Dave Sawatzky and Lena Hepp­ ner), with soft organ music, set the tone for each evening service. Harold and Alfrieda Fast shared of their experiences in Pakistan, work­ ing with illness prevention programs in rural areas. Les and Marianne Fast briefed us on the reducing of a language to writing and trans­ lation of the Bible for a tribe in Papua New Guinea. Abe Giesbrecht of Radio ZP-30 (Paraguay) described the programming that is meeting the physical and spiritual needs of the people groups in the area. Lester Olfert challenged us to pray for specific projects in Nicaragua and Mexico. Doug Reader, an experienced Shantyman speaker at camps for native children, held the rapt attention of young and old alike with his dramatic presentations of God’s Word. His wife, Gena, also a gifted speaker, shared nug­ gets from the lives of Bible women in the Saturday ladies’ session. During the Sunday school hour, the children were treated to a Bible lesson by Mr. Reader, followed by ven­ triloquist Nita Wiebe and her puppet. Aunt Min, a distant relative of Balaam’s donkey, who stressed the importance of obeying God’s rules. Stan Wiebe closed with a dual projec­ tor audio visual showing of “Jesus Loves the Children of the World.” In the worship serv­ ice, Peter Fast gave us a glimpse of the ad­ venturous life of an MK in Papua New Guinea via slides and tape. The acting out of the slave girl and Naaman episode, vividly made the point that all God’s children are missionaries in all situations and locations. A ten-year-old youth commented he wished the conference could continue another week! Christmas praise resounded as we celebrat­ ed in concerts throughout December. At our evening of Christmas music, the flute and or­ gan prelude faded into the singing and hand­ bell tolling of O Come All Ye Faithful, becoming more audible as the musicians came down the aisle carrying candles to various loMarch 8, 1995

cations. A guitar, flute or trumpet at different times joined the piano and organ in the carol singing. The adult mixed ensemble with soloist, the men’s trio, the Sounds of Joy, and the men’s chorus provided packages of vocal and handbell music, including Der Friedensfurst. Throughout, the Voices of Christmas, Gabriel, Mary, a shepherd, and Anna, with their dramatic portrayals, canied the events of Christmas from beginning to end. A glori­ ous rendition of the Hallelujah Chorus closed the celebration. Who steals the show at our Sunday school programs? The tiny tots, of course! They hap­ pily tinkled their little golden bells as they sang/said their piece. The grades one to seven classes presented Listen to the Voices, a mu­ sical of touching lyrics set to beautiful melo­ dies, directed by Elaine Giesbrecht (choir) and Elvira Hamm (drama). “To be a blessing” was the goal Elaine impressed upon the children, for which they prayed at rehearsals. Three rather impish shepherd boys were caught in the happenings of the first Christmas, blind­ ed by the announcing angel, worshipping at the manger, and questioning the stately wise­ men who proceeded down the aisle to the house on stage, where the couple with their baby King then resided. Our pastor empha­ sized the need to accept Christ as Savior to experience real Christmas joy. The children

ANNUAL MEETING HELD

Portage la Prairie, Man.: On January 21, at 9 a.m., some thirty adults gathered around long tables in the lower auditorium of our church for the annual meeting. There was keen anticipation and excitement in the air. Brian Rushton, chairman of the Board, opened the meeting with the reading of I John 3;3, and shared a few thoughts: “Sometimes we’re fresh for prayer meeting but not for cleaning boots.” Recognizing our own inadequacies and our utter dependence on God, we had a short time of prayer. (Much prayer had already gone into this meeting many times previously.) Next, Brian went through the whole year­ book, presenting each report for discussion, followed by a motion to accept it. Ed Nikkei

and audience joined ranks in a vibrant cho­ rus of Joy to the World. During January, the threads on the under­ side of the tapestry God is weaving here, seemed terribly tangled. Our congregation was stunned at the news of the sudden home-going of another cherished servant of the Lord. Karl Goertzen of Portage la Prairie consoled us that morning with John 14:1-6, reminding us that the nail-scarred hands of Jesus were lovingly preparing mansions in glory for all who loved the Lord, Elaine Giesbrecht’s having just been completed for occupancy. Because of her serv­ ice to family, church, schools, community and friends, over a thousand mourners attended her memorial service. Her Sunday school choir softly and tearfully sang “Soon and very soon we are going to see the King...no more dying there...no more crying there....” That same week God’s grace was evident as Abe Suderman survived a rare technique for unclogging arteries, and Agnes Neustaeter was given peace after her cancer diagnosis and radical mastectomy the following week. Talented young Daniel Dickenson, part of our young people’s group until his illness, lost his battle with cancer, but left a radiant testimony, touching many lives with his quiet, unassum­ ing, helpful concern for others. Some day our many “whys” will be an­ swered with a particularly beautiful area as we view our tapestry from the top. What a blessed hope! — Eluira Hamm

presented the Building Committee plans. His opening remark was, “If you want excitement, get involved with the city of Portage,” sharing that, through prayer, God came through three times in the face of gigantic obstacles, which can now be resolved. Like Nehemiah of old, we too can say, “...we, his servants, will arise and build.” Noon hour arrived all too soon, when every­ one grabbed for their sandwiches and served themselves homemade soup in the kitchen, with much socializing and interacting going on. After we were in our places again, elections began. All went well! By 3:00 every vacant po­ sition had been filled and energy was still soar­ ing high! As we left for our respective homes, we felt that “...surely, God has been in this place....” — Anne Klassen PAGE 11

CHILDREN’S RALLY Swift Current, Sask.: Hello (at last!) from Swift Current! There’s been no shortage of news in our parts — just a dramatic shortage of time. My life and that of my family have been turned upside down and inside out (quite literally) since beginning major renovations to our home in August. The days have been very long and nights very short, leaving little time for leisure or writing (which happens to be one of my favourite leisurely activities)! In fact, just finding the computer was a major accomplishment! After clearing a path between boxes, tools, paint pails, more tools, gyproc, more boxes — you get the picture — I finally found the desk! Then 1 had to dig through a thick layer of blankets and dust to locate the computer itself — and that’s no kid­ ding! But at last Fm here to fill you in with news from our congregation. Indeed, uncovering my keyboard is somewhat like finding a long lost childhood friend. 1994 passed quickly, thanks in part to a very full calendar. The Sunday school depart­ ment experienced a flurry of activity. Our an­ nual Children’s Rally in May, with the theme Celebrate Jesus, was also a kick off for sum­ mer Sunday school. We were thrilled to have Hippo-party-mus join us in celebrating Jesus through Bible lessons, singing, puppetry and crafts. It was a huge success, thanks to the children, Hippo-party-mus and the many teachers and helpers. Special thanks to Shirley Fast, who provided much-needed creativity, support and encouragement. Fm not sure who had more fun celebrating Jesus, the children or I! I can hardly wait until Hippo-party-mus comes for a visit! The annual Sunday school picnic. Bible memorization and attendance awards con­ tinue in popularity. The contests have proven to be great incentives for children, parents and teachers. Teaching staff were also presented with certificates in recognition of their years of service. What a privilege to be a part of such a dedicated team of teachers, who willingly de­ vote precious time to faithfully teach Sunday school. It’s always a pleasure to renew acquain­ tances with friends, and none more so than former pastoral staff. We enjoyed visiting with John and Tina Toews and Tom and Connie Peachey when they passed through Swift Cur­ rent. Thank you for stopping! Our church family was thrilled to have Amy Engel participate in the EMC Mission Project in Paraguay last summer. It was a wonderful opportunity for Amy, and she continues to share her experiences with us. July was an eventful month, to say the least, especially for Pastor John and Lyn. In early July, Lyn experienced health problems during her pregnancy, even to the point of her life be­ ing in danger. Frederick John Taylor III (or J. J., as he is affectionately known) was born July 18, weighing two pounds half an ounce. Lyn, J.J. and the rest of the family were saturated with prayer, support and encouragement.

PAGE 12

The John Taylor family: Cheryl, Kim, Lyn, “J.J.” and John

God’s grace was evident in the ensuing weeks as we witnessed Lyn’s recovery and restora­ tion of strength. J. J. spent several weeks in the neonatal unit in Regina, which meant weekly trips to visit. Lyn would stay the first few days of the week, then John would make the trip in to visit J. J. and return home with Lyn for the weekend. It was a difficult time, but what a joyous celebration in mid-October, when J. J. was discharged to the loving care of his family! On October 17, J. J. was wel­ comed with open arms to worship with us. We were thrilled to meet him. Fm pleased to report he’s gaining steadily and growing like a weed. He might not have been “planned,” but there’s not a shadow of doubt he’s loved and treas­ ured by all who know him! Summer just wouldn’t be summer without family camp, and 1994 was no exception. We welcomed the opportunity to have Pastor Arden Thiessen of Steinbach, Man., minister to us. We celebrated the ordinance of baptism in the chilly waters of Lac Pelletier and wel­ comed into our fellowship Wanda Fast, Kirk Fehr, Tara Lopeter, Mary Jane Nelson,

Swift Current youth group with leaders Cam and Jen Rempel.

Herman Neufeld and Janice Zacharias. Jacob and Mary Driedger, Terry and Penny Giesbrecht, Betty Martens, Barb Neufeld and Greg Zacharias were also welcomed into our mem­ bership. Following the baptism ceremony, a delicious fellowship dinner was served to a very large crowd. The youth group continues to maintain a busy schedule. We bade a temporary farewell in fall to Kerrie Engel, who is pursuing studies in Saskatoon, and Tanya Fehr, who is study­ ing in Moose Jaw. Time and space does not permit me to elaborate on Christmas celebrations, but suffice to say there was no shortage of them! Now that I’ve found my keyboard, and there’s light at the end of our renovation tunnel, 1 will report on Christmas activities next time! (Be­ sides, 1 just found my Christmas film in my purse!) Cindy Penner

COMMISSIONING OF DEACONS

Rosenort, Man.: On January 8 we held a commissioning service for our new deacon couples. The speaker for this occasion was Terry Dueck of Mennville, Rod’s younger brother. Moderator Ralph Linger led the dedi­ cation part of the service. Both men stressed the need for the church to back up their work­ ers with prayer. It’s an opportunity to be co­ workers with them. Our Sunday school Christmas program on December 18 featured one item from each class. This resulted in a great treat for those who could be there. I was hospitalized follow­ ing surgery and had to miss a lot of Christ­ mas activity in church. However, I did come home for the holidays and am now feeling quite healthy. Mr. Frank C.L. Friesen was also in the hospital just before Christmas as a result of a heart problem. We praise God for grant­ ing speedy recovery. Pastor Menno Kroeker preached “Good News of Great Joy” on Christmas Day, and our choir repeated portions of their previous­ ly rendered cantata of the same name. There was also a service on Boxing Day with Pas­ tor Johnny Loewen bringing the Word of God on the different ways we can worship our Lord. The College and Career group rendered a

Left to right: Ed and Anne Loewen, Sharon and Rod Dueck

program at Union Gospel Mission on Janu­ ary 29, and the senior adult group that goes once a month held a service there on Decem­ ber 18 and January 15. Our youth groups had a great two-day outing to Crossroads Range Bible Camp in North Dakota. Tobogganing was the big attraction. It was good to have Alvira Friesen home for Christmas from her mission station in Mexi­ co. Karen Dueck also made it home from San Jose, California, where she helps “street kids” find Christ. Leui Dueck THE MESSENGER

GIFTS FROM GOD

Winnipeg, Man. (Aberdeen): Though the people of Aberdeen church don’t always real­ ize it, God is using His power in our lives these days. Our grades 4-6 Sunday school class mem­ bers reminded us of that fact when they en­ thusiastically took charge of the Sunday morning service on February 5. We enjoyed the pizza potluck that ended in an unusual kind of Sunday morning. So what happened in the last year? We’ve had a child given back to us. In May, Zachary Kramer was accidentally backed over by a truck, which left tire tracks on his face, but he is with us, as active as a five-year-old can be! His parents, Gerry and Maggie, hosted a meal for the church in thanks for God’s resto­ ration of their son. We’ve had children given to us in a more ‘ordinary’ way, if the birth of perfectly formed babies can be called ‘ordinary.’ Since summer, Kate Niebuhr, Steven Guenther, Laura Gies­ brecht, Ginny Giesbrecht and Noah Block have come to join us. On Mother’s Day we brought these children and Peter James Suon to our church community, acknowledging that they are gifts from God and asking the church to be the supporting community for them, and for us as parents, as they grow physically and spiritually. We’ve had people decide they’d like to for­ malize their participation in Christ’s body at Aberdeen. Heather Block, Terry Goertzen and Brad and Carolyn Nance have joined our membership. We’ve rejoiced with people celebrating mile­ stone birthdays. Melinda Penner turned 70 on December 23. Her quiet appreciation of life is enjoyed by us. We were invited to celebrate Linda Doerksen and Sarah Reimer’s 65th birthdays with Open House gatherings. Other celebrations we’ve had this year included a corn roast and New Year’s Eve drop-in. We were glad for Mak Suon, who could travel to Cambodia, and for Sol Janzen, who visited Bolivia. We were excited with Bruce Thiessen and his family when he finished a year with Inter-Menno in Holland. Retreating at Gimli’s Sunday School Mission Camp was also a

I Parent/child dedication at the Aberdeen church on May 8. Left to right: Murray and Ivy Guenther with Steven, Terry Goertzen and Kathy Block with Noah, Ruby Niebuhr and Mo Klippenstein with Kate, Ed and Lynda Giesbrecht with Virginia, Vic and Rita Giesbrecht with Laura, Kan and Sorn Suon with Peter.

highlight and a time of relaxation. The women of the church spent many hours piecing and quilting this summer, an activity that culminated in a fund-raising dinner for John and Ann Friesen, who work for IVCF. The quilt was auctioned off as part of a very entertaining evening. Many of the men of our church participat­ ed in a men’s retreat last February and are looking forward to another one in April. Our church continues to wrestle with what our mission is as a North End church. Satur-

FIFTH ANNUAL FUNSPIEL Winnipeg, Man. (Crestview): February 4 saw several early birds arrive at the Rosser Curling Rink to prepare breakfast for curlers and fans, who started to appear shortly after the bacon started sizzling at 6:45 a.m. Thanks to John Wiebe and his crew of several men, dozens of hungry people were treated to a hearty breakfast. After the grill was shined, the ladies moved into the canteen to serve homemade soup, chi­ li, hotdogs, pies and all kinds of goodies. The curlers were well fortified for those gruelling games! Sixty people took to the ice bearing brooms and words of encouragement for fellow play­ ers. The ice was kept busy from morning un­ til evening as curlers threw rocks, persuaded tardy rocks with sweeping, ran, slid, or other­ wise made their way down the slippery sheets! During games the fans cheered or speculat­ ed, while others skated, played table games or enjoyed good visiting.

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Anola, Man.: Six new members were added to the Anola Fellowship Chapel (EMC) by bap­ tism on February 5,1995. Left to right: Karen Gullden, Christopher McCulloch, Ernie and Christine Hadaller, Valery Koop and Yvette (Nikky) Pennarun.

March 8, 1995

day breakfasts have been tried and some com­ munity involvement has happened, along with strengthening of member-to-member bonds. This is, in part, what has happened in Aber­ deen lately. There have been hard times for people, hard events to bear and hard feelings between people at times, but when we look back we see that God has been working among us, equipping us in part by the support of each other, to go out into our work days and live as children of God. Ivy Guenther

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■ J Esther and Dave Dueck

Thanks especially to Barry and Sharron Straub and to Ernie and Kathy Hildebrandt for organizing Crestview’s fifth funspiel. Thanks to all who donated food, served and helped with clean-up. Everyone’s efforts com­ bined to make this a great day of fun and fel­ lowship for Crestview and friends. Dave and Esther Dueck celebrated 45 years of marriage on July 10. The couple and ap­ proximately 250 guests, who gathered on the Duecks’ yard to celebrate the happy occasion, were blessed with beautiful weather. Most ac­ tivities took place under a large canopy, which provided shade. The well-groomed yard, with its many colourful flowers and large trees, was a pleasant reminder to all of God’s goodness. The Duecks were thankful that their chil­ dren, grandchildren and many other relatives were able to come. The couple and their guests enjoyed music by the Duecks’ children and by the Crestview men’s group. Reminisc­ ing, interesting and entertaining, was done by family and friends. Pastor Ralph Unger con­ cluded the program with a devotional. A lovely faspa was prepared and served by family and friends. Dave and Esther, your Crestview friends wish you God’s blessings in the years ahead! Helen Toews PAGE 13

Fort Frances church ladies’ Christmas social. Left to right: Bonita Friesen, Toots Rempel, Karla Ans, Penny Faragher, Sandie Siemens.

LADIES ENJOY ACTIVITIES Fort Frances, Ont.: Snow! Snow! Snow! That’s what Fort Frances has been getting, along with cold weather since January 1. The snowbanks are three to four feet high in some locations. We are looking forward to spring — it should be right around the corner (we hope). Anyway, snow does remind me of one of God’s most precious promises, “Purge me with hyssop and I shall be clean; wash me and 1 shall be whiter than snow” (Psalm 51:7). Going back to October 16, Pastor John Hiebert gave a wonderful sermon on “The Weak­ ness of Samson” and Ike Friesen read scripture. A delicious potluck lunch was en­ joyed by all after the service, followed by a membership meeting. Another video was shown to those who at­ tended the October 28 Bible study. “Why Values are Important” was the topic for a ser­ ies of videos shown each week. The parents who attended learned a great deal on how to raise their children God’s way. Pastor John led this study. Pastor John and Becky Hiebert provided a couple of beautiful hymns at the November 27 service. Thank you, John and Becky, for praising God with your wonderful voices. “In the morning, O Lord, you will hear my voice, in the morning I will order my prayer to you and eagerly watch” (Psalm 5:3). Phil Friesen gave the sermon on December 4 since Pastor John was away. I believe he touched many hearts with his message of wis­ dom. John Lowe led the congregation in sing­ ing and Bill Rempel read God’s word. At 5 p.m. on Sunday, December 11, a Christmas banquet was held at the church. The room was very festive as it was gaily deco­ rated and the table held a large assortment of delicious food, including lots of turkey and stuffing. Good fellowship prevailed and God blessed each of us who attended. My father came as my guest and was most impressed

Cookie exchange at the ladies Christmas social.

with the warmth and caring he felt from every­ one. I hope we can do this again next year. Our children’s Christmas concert on Decem­ ber 18 was a blessing to all who attended. The children did a wonderful job. (I was unable to attend, but that’s what I hear.) Refreshments and Christmas cookies and candy were served later. The ladies’ group held a Christmas gather­ ing at Sandie Siemens’ home on December 15. A few games were played and a gift exchange took place. Also, we all found out who our secret prayer partners were. There were a lot of surprises! We also had a cookie exchange, where all who brought cookies got to take a variety of Christmas cookies home — yum, yum! Sandie provided a lovely lunch and we thank her for her hospitality. We all enjoyed the evening immensely! Elections were held and the following were elected to our church vacancies: Bernie Mar­ tens (Board member), George Friesen (Board member), Joshua Ans (usher), Evelyn Hicks (usher), Hal Mickelsen (usher), Anne Barnard (librarian), Tina Friesen (Food Committee), John and Becky Hiebert (Christian Parents Association Reps.). The ladies’ group met again on January 26, this time at Kim Mickelsen’s home. Becky Hie­ bert led in praise and prayer. Each lady provid­ ed a scripture on the word “patience,” which she had memorized. The rest of the evening was spent on working on crafts. Swags, hearts and hats were decorated and a fun time was enjoyed by all. Kim and Penny provided a love­ ly lunch. A lot of sharing was done as the la­ dies got to know each other better. On February 12 we were blessed when Hen­ ry Kornelsen gave an inspirational sermon. Pastor John told the children a story and Karla Ans looked after the children’s church. A pot­ luck was served after the service. Thank you, Henry, for coming all that way from Steinbach to share in our service. It was great to see and talk to you and Tina again. God bless you

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both! Until next time, God keep all of you in His care. Euelyn Hicks

IN MEMORY

In memory of our dear son, brother and un­ cle, Jonathon, who died in a car accident on February 23,1994. ARE YOU STILL SHY? My beautiful Jonathon, I have a question for you... Are you still shy in heaven too? Are you still sensitive, inquisitive, and learning? Are you aware how for you we are yearning? Are you still blonde with eyes of blue? Are you still shy in heaven too? Are you still wearing clothes? do you need new jeans? Are you tall and handsome still in your teens? Do you dream of the crystal riverbanks? For not living with illness, do you give thanks?

is heaven in any way like you thought it to be? Did Jesus pass on all the messages from me? Are they treating you well, taking care of you? And how was the valley that you walked through? And are you still shy in heaven too? HOW did it feel to leave your body and all pain? Was it a shock to go to work in vain? Did Jesus greet you? Did he meet you? Did they make you feel at home too? And were you shy as they opened the gates for you?

I wonder...are you really okay? is it true? And how did you feel when Rachel came through? Followed by loyal Mike and, wowi Tom too? Did you greet them and hug them and show them around? I'm sure no happier teenagers could anywhere be found. Did you gather at the river where angel feet have trod With its crystal tide forever flowing by the throne of Cod?

Soon we ll reach the shining river Soon our pilgrimage will cease Soon our happy hearts will quiver With the melody of peace.

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Christmas banquet at the Fort Frances church.

Jonathon’s mom Until we meet again, Don, Aluina, Jewel, Mike, Taylor, Jim, Tamara and Analisa Heinrichs THE MESSENGER

MARGARET (SIEMENS) REIMER 1894-1994

It is with great sadness that the family an­ nounces the peaceful passing of our mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great­ great-grandmother on July 25, 1994, at the Morris General Hospi­ tal, at the age of 1(X) years. She leaves to mourn her passing, two sons, Pete and Tina Siemens (Morris, Man.) and Jake and Mona Siemens (Penticton, B.C.); four daughters, Susan Huzil (Calgary, Alta.), Donna and Lawrence Coates (Morris), Margaret and Paul Blehm (Meade, Kansas), Helen Young (Morris); one son-inlaw, Victor Severson (Winnipeg, Man.); 26 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Also surviving are three stepsons, John and Tina Reimer (Blumenort, Man.), Jake and Tina Reimer (Wichita, Kan­ sas), Henry and Margaret Reimer (Meade, Kansas), step-grandchildren and stepgreat-grand-children. She was predeceased by her first husband, John P. Siemens, and her second husband, John H. Reimer; daughter Betty Severson; four grandchildren and three sons-in-law. The funeral service was held on Friday, July 29, in the Rosenort E. M. Church, with inter­ ment in the Rosenort Cemetery.

Weddings TOEWS - ESAU: Gerald, son of Gus and Agnes Toews of Steinbach, Man., was married on Febru­ ary 10, 1995, to Heather, daughter of Erdman and Myrtle Esau of Mitchell, Man. The wedding took place at the Steinbach EMC, with Glen Krentz of Winnipeg, Man., brother-in-law of the groom, officiating. The couple is making their home in Steinbach.

Births WIELER - to Doug and Fran Wieler of Steinbach, Man., a son, Jason Matthew, on November 24, 1994.

KOOP - to Ron and Brenda Koop of Steinbach, Man., a son, Braden Joel, on November 30, 1994. KOEHLER - to Loren and Beth Koehler of Stein­ bach, Man., a daughter, Priscilla Anne, on January 1, 1995. KOOP - to Howard and Marge Koop of Steinbach, Man., a son, Travis Wayne, on January 16, 1995. KORNELSON - to Menno and Mary Kornelson of Aylmer, Ont., a daughter, Tracey Jane, on Decem­ ber 6, 1994. FRIESEN - to David and Anna Friesen of Aylmer, Ont., a son, Rudy Ronald, on January 7, 1995. LOEWEN - to Rick and Tina Loewen of Pt. Bur­ well, Ont., a son, Jeffrey Paul, on January 9, 1995. DUECK - to Roydon and Cheryl Dueck of Sooke, B.C., a son, Nicholas Reid, on October 21, 1994.

March 8, 1995

By the WAY

By Dave Schellenberg

WE WERE SITTING across the table from each other at a recent function and the conversation drifted to retirement. What preparation had I made? Well, to be honest, I really hadn’t. Or had I? Finally I said that I didn’t think I had done so, consciously. The work I had been engaged in prior to retirement, as editor of The Messenger, which had included photography and writing, had in a sense prepared me. This, plus voluntary and church work, has not left me much time to get bored! However, I believe the question is legitimate. People who have worked on assembly lines all their life, day labourers, farmers, etc., suddenly retire and find time heavy on their hands. They may have wished for the day when they could punch out for the last time — then life would begin — but they are disappointed at the outcome. I would certainly endorse making preparations for retirement. In my case, maybe my vocation already was a preparation. But those of you who are retired farmers or assembly-line people cannot go back and continue where you left off. Let me suggest some alternatives. Maybe the first thing you should do is write your memoirs. Oh, but I am far too modest for that, you say. Nothing exciting ever happens to me. Maybe not in your mind — but how much do your children know of your childhood, your growing-up years (maybe in the Depression years), your meeting their mother, their grandparents, etc.? I’m afraid sometimes they don’t know very much. After my brother had written his memoirs, which provided fascinating reading, I followed, and last year our oldest brother wrote his. So there you have your first assignment! Peter Mustirc in The Joy of Growing Oider emphasizes preparation: ‘‘Long before retirement ever looms on the horizon, and preferably in younger years, one ought to begin developing interests other than work, yard, house

and family.” He then goes on to list twenty-six different things that could appeal to you. Then there are all the serviceoriented jobs in the church and community. Many communities have MCC Self Help stores. Occasionally I visit ours, although I’ve never thought I had time to offer my services. But I see older individuals manning the check­ outs, volunteering maybe once a week or once in two weeks. There are also those behind-the-scenes people in the back room sorting the donations. God bless them! My neighbour John is (or was) a school crossing guard. Others volunteer as receptionist at the local Serving Seniors Club. Do you play the mouth organ? (Some of you may remember the ones from the 15-cent store in Winnipeg.) There is a mouth organ band in my town, which performed at a seniors banquet recently, I think practice takes place on Wednesday mornings. Now there is something to do. For a number of years my wife and I have been care group leaders in our church. This has given us occasion to visit, pray and, in some cases, help with transportation. For some it might mean teaching a Sunday school class or leading a home Bible study group. When we built our church addition, there was opportunity to paint. Some women enjoy being involved in Cradle Roll activities. Why should age be a factor? When our church adopted nightly security checks, some of the volunteers were seniors. Other seniors volunteer for breakfast preparation at men’s fellowship breakfasts. Senior ladies can take part in Mission Sisters, Well, there you have some ideas. I’m sure you could come up with some of your own. However, if you are the kind of person who just enjoys taking things easy and are perfectly happy doing so, maybe the foregoing is not for you. I suspect, though, that this is not the case with most of us.

FRIESEN - to Dwayne and Sheila Friesen of Grunthal, Man., a daughter, Tess Janae, on February 13, 1995. SLYWCHUK ■ to Gary and Jackie Slywchuk of Warman, Sask., a son, Justin Nicholas, on Janu­ ary 14, 1995.

KROEKER - to Jim and Lyn Krocker of Mitchell, Man., a son, Shelby Jimmy Russel, on February 26, 1995. SAWATZKY - to Dave and Rose Sawatzky of Mac­ Gregor, Man., two sons, Donavon Cornelius and Darren Kenneth, on January 22, 1995.

PAGE 15

From the Editor Another Way BRINGING DOWN the federal budget always creates a storm of reaction. Hon. Paul Martin’s 1995 budget this week was no exception. It seems the government is beginning to get serious about bringing the national debt under control. In principle I am sure we all agree such action is long overdue. There is also general agreement that higher taxes are out of the question. So the debt must be lowered by making drastic cuts in areas of the budget — exactly where, is the cause of much argument. Each one of us can think of many areas that can be cut — areas that do not affect us directly. But don’t touch any area that I benefit from. But if the government sticks to its plan to reduce the deficit without raising taxes, we will be affected in one way or another. We have to realize that the standard of living we have come to enjoy and expect as a “right,” costs more than we as a nation can afford. We may well lose a piece of our social “security blanket” through reductions in such programs as pensions, unemployment insurance, welfare and medicare. That will create serious problems for many who depend on these services. But if such changes are inevitable, we need to start now to look for “another way” to provide the necessities of life. Actually, in some areas that has already begun. Food banks for the destitute, manned by volunteers, are just one example. In the years ahead, opportunities to serve as “good Samaritans” will multiply. Through the privilege given me to participate in a work project in Nicaragua for two weeks in February, my mind was opened to a new perspective. Citizens of that country have no medicare, no pensions, no unemployment insurance and no welfare. As difficult as their situations may be, the people have a strong determination to survive. The economy of Nicaragua is devastated for many reasons. There have been natural disasters in recent times such as earthquakes, drought and a tidal wave. Ten years of revolution in the ’80s took their toll on the economy, as did government mismanagement. Now, international bank loan payments, demanded by the International Monetary Fund, leave less money to spend at home. Although efforts are being made to improve the situation, there is a long way to go. Unemployment still runs around 65%. Nicaragua is far from its potential as Central America’s “Garden of Eden.” So how do people cope? What maintains their hope? PAGE 16

The faith and optimism of Christian people we met challenged us many times. We observed examples of the compassion and care they show for each other. Dona Azucina was our gracious hostess and cook. while our group of seven worked in Managua, the capital city. She lives about two blocks from the head office of the Fraternity of EMC churches, where we replaced the metal on the roof and did some interior repairs. Azucina lost her husband suddenly just over a year ago from a heart attack. And the church lost a pillar. After his death she had no means of income or livelihood, which made her grief all the more intense. But she and her single daughter have found a new home with a son and daughter-in-law, who both work in the police force. Azucina does much of the housework and cares for her young grandson while his parents are at work. It seems like a convenient arrangement, family members looking after each other’s needs. Although there are sure to be problems, there are also many benefits in a multigenerational family. And there is no dependence on government support. On February 18 we were at Camp Maranatha, witnessing the annual convention. Around noon, while driving onto the campground, a youth from Colama had the misfortune of slipping under the wheels of the truck. One of his feet was crushed and he was rushed to the hospital in Masaya. His foot could not be saved and his leg was amputated below the knee. Since there is no medicare, someone has to pay the medical and hospital bills. In addition, someone has to provide food and personal care for the patient. We were impressed by the way the people at the convention responded. As a first measure an offering was taken among those present. Later the council had a meeting where each committee decided to give up part of its annual budget to help meet this need. We were shown that where there are needs, Christians find ways to meet them. Motivated by the love of Christ, they demonstrated care and compassion for each other. That is one of the blessings of Christian community. So, though we are tempted to complain about hard times, let’s be ready to solve problems “another way.” It is a privilege to be able to contribute to a need in a way that is more personal — demonstrating Christian love and compassion — both at home and to our sisters and brothers in Nicaragua and elsewhere. — Menno Hamm

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