The Messenger May 6, 1998

The

Arlyn van Enns, EMC/NCEM worker, has a “prettyin’-up time” before a serv­ ice in northern Alberta. ▼

I A. Henry Klassen, EMC Executive Secretary to the Board of Missions, cuts his birthday cake.

The EMC: On the Cutting Edge of Missions?

(See pages 7-13)

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Messenger EDITOR Terry M. Smith

Sign, If You Want To "I am aware and give my consent that a portion of my donation forwarded through my church for the EMC national budget is used to pay for The Messenger. While I do not have to receive the magazine and can direct that my money not pay for it, I want to receive this magazine until I indicate oth­ erwise. ” (sample only) We have asked churches to get informed consent from people on the magazine’s mailing list who normally pay through their church. Why? The federal Department of Canadian Her­ itage (DCH), which handles the Publica­ tions Assistance Program (postal subsidies), has sent letters to some church magazines. (The Messenger has not received one — yet.) The magazines might lose their sub­ sidy. Discussion continues. With a subsidy. The Messenger costs 7.9 cents per copy to mail (roughly $1.75 per household per year). Without it, the mail­ ing cost alone jumps more than ten times to about 90 cents per copy ($19.80 yearly). For The Messenger to keep its subsidy.

“more than 50%” of subscribers must give informed consent. The subsidy applies only to those who give consent — say, 51 %. To send the magazine to the remaining 49% would cost roughly $38,000 per year. Informed, willing subscribers (from the address labels) are asked to provide con­ sent through their church. A telephone poll or a check beside a name is not enough; we need signatures from subscribers. To save mailing costs to you and other con­ senting homes, we need to provide proof of your consent. This is not the same dispute The Messen­ ger had previously with Canada Post, nor is this matter solved by printing fewer copies. (It’s important that as many people as pos­ sible receive The Messenger.) If you don’t wish to receive The Messen­ ger and prefer to see your money used else­ where, let us know your choice and we will respect it. Is this awkward? Yes. We know The Mes­ senger is valued. Thank you for your help. The Editor

The Reality Gap 1 CAN’T GO INTO DETAILS — it would be painful to those who know. As a minister, 1 am privileged to be at special times and sad moments. A special time was followed by a sad moment. There was a connection; 1 won’t say what. As a pastor then, 1 hurt. 1 told some of the story at a gathering with EMC missionaries present. As 1 shared, heads turned toward me. At that moment — and later — 1 real­ ized what had happened. A situation unusual in Canada was viewed by me as a “reason” why ministry did not occur. The missionaries commonly lived with such situations in their fields of serv­ ice — yet ministered. None of my brothers and sisters rebuked me in words. 1 had hit a “reality gap.” 1 am a middle­ class minister who has only read about the Great Depression — or seen it etched on the faces and lifestyles of older family and believers. My “world” is high tech. My mod­ est Canadian lifestyle remains extravagant by the standards of the Two-Thirds World. PAGE 2

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Martha Kroeker THE MESSENGER Is the publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. It is available to the general public. Its purpose is to inform, instruct and inspire: inform concerning events and activities in the denomination: instruct in god­ liness and victorious living; inspire to earnestly contend for the faith. Letters, articles, photos and poems are welcomed. Unpub­ lished material is not returned except by request. The views and opinions expressed by the writers are their own and do not necessarily represent the posi­ tion of the Conference. THE MESSENGER is pub­ lished twice a month (once a month in July and August) by the Board of Church Ministries of the Evangelical Mennonite Con­ ference, 440 Main Street, Steinbach, Manitoba. Subscriptions: $12.00 per year (Manitoba residents add 7% PST, total: $12.84). Sub­ scriptions are voluntary and op­ tional to people within or outside of the EMC. Members and ad­ herents pay through their church. THE MESSENGER is a member of Meetinghouse and Canadian Church Press. Second-class postage paid at Steinbach, Manitoba. Registration Number: 0591 Mailing information: All correspondence, including undelivered copies, change of address and new subscriptions, should be addressed to: The Messenger RO. Box 1268 Steinbach, Manitoba ROA 2A0

The “reality gap” reminds me of the obvi­ ous: The basic ingredient in ministry is not technology or wealth but people — and ministry is tough work. Christians are called to tell others of Christ’s freeing news for all people and the power He gives to all believers, however feeble their faith. Is the EMC on the “cutting edge” of mis­ sions? 1 don’t know. We have a good grasp of the basics: truth is to be shared by im­ perfect people who trust in Christ. In this issue, we read articles and features Phone: 204-326-6401 Fax: 204-326-1613 by EMC workers Amanda Barkman, Ernie E-mail: emconf@mts.net Koop, Arlyn and Ann van Enns, Lester Olfert and guest Jake Lepp. These Christian work­ ers show their devotion and imperfection, gifts and struggles. Cover: Birthday photo by editor. We are like them, because “they are us.” Quote by Arlyn. Pray for them, love them, appreciate them, provide for them, stand with them. They are; MESSENGER Tl^-^J^ne SCHEDULE: ' No. 11 - June 10

serving for us and with us — because to- (material due May 29) gether we are His. No. 12 - June 24 Terry M. Smith (material due June 12) THE MESSENGER

Some Motherly Advice on Being a Mother Lorraine Pintus MOTHERING IS AN EXHAUSTING, all-consuming pro­ cess that requires energy, concentration, persevereince, patience, and a host of other elusive attributes. What mother has not wondered at some point in her parenting. Will 1 euer make it to the day when my youngest is potty trained? I talked with eight parents who successfully survived the formative years of their children. “If you could share one ounce of advice to encourage mothers in the stresses of rearing preschoolers, what would it be?” I asked. Here are their responses:

Live one day at a time. Madalene Harris, mother of four, says, “Sometimes it’s good not to look too far down the road. For thirteen years I changed diapers. That thought overwhelmed me! But changing diapers for one day? I could handle that. Matthew 6:34 says, ‘Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.’ “When life was difficult I’d tell myself, ‘Just get through today. Forget tomorrow.’ That helped, not only when my children were young but later when I lost my husband to cancer. I now know that it is best to live life one day at a time.”

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. “As much as you need help is as much as I need to give it,” suggests Kit May, mother of three. “I love to help others. It’s fun! We all need help. We all need to be helped. That’s why God gave us to each other. John 16:24 says, ‘Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.’ Never be afraid to ask someone to help you.” Keep your marriage a priority. First you have a husband, then you have kids. It’s easy to forget the importance of that order when your children are little, says Sherron Hudson, mother of two adult children. “There were times I was so stressed out from my day that I dumped on John the minute he walked through the door. That didn’t work. “What did work was to make John my first priority. I began spending the last thirty minutes before he came home preparing for his arrival. I’d put the kids in their rooms for a quiet time, comb my hair, put on a clean blouse, splash on some perfume, and pick up the house. When John opened the door, I greeted him with a kiss. “Over time, his attitude about coming home changed. As I was sensitive to meet his needs, he became ea­ ger to meet mine. The best thing I did for my children — and my marriage — was to honour John and put his needs first.” i

ask me at dinner, ‘What did you do today?’ and I couldn’t point to a thing! So instead of setting goals I’d never achieve, I set one or two simple goals. “I’d take the kids on a walk and use that time to talk to God. This accomplished a spiritual goal and an ex­ ercise goal. Instead of having friends over for a fivecourse meal. I’d invite them for dessert. Sometimes I’d think,‘That’s not much.’ But it was realistic! And it kept me moving in a positive direction.”

Cherish each moment. John Davis, father of two teenagers, suggests, “Be glad that, right now, your kids want to be with you. In the snap of your fingers, they’ll be gone. The other day 1 asked Jeff if he wanted to go to the movies with me. He said, ‘No, Dad, I’ve already made plans with my friends.’ “It seems like yesterday that he was four, tugging on my pants legs, begging me to play with him. Now I am the one doing the begging. None of us can return to those early years once they are gone. That is why it is so important to enjoy the moments while you have them.” Apply consistent discipline early on. One of the best ways to ensure future peace is to be willing to have a little conflict early on, says Bat Reger, speaker for Moth­ ers of Preschoolers (MOPs). “I tell mothers, discipline your children when they are young if you want them to be responsible when they are adults. Be consist­ ent. Think before you threaten. Follow through on what you say. Doing this now will prevent a lot of heart­ ache in the future.” Hebrews 12:11 says, “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”

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Keep your goals simple. Lauri Bumann, mother of three, remembers, “When my children were babies, I felt as though I accomplished nothing. Doug would MAY 6, 1998

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“Be glad that, right now, your kids want to be with you. In the snap of your fingers, they'll be gone. None of us can return to those early years once they are gone. ’’

Don’t neglect your spiritual life. Phyllis Stanley regularly mentors mothers with young children. “For many women,” she says, “mothering does not come naturally. But we can mother supernaturally if we rely on the power of the Holy Spirit. It is impossible to real­ ize that power without spending some time reading the Word of God and praying. Make your kids have quiet time so you can have your quiet time.” Be willing to admit when you are wrong, Don Couchman, grandfather of three, offers this: “It’s im­ portant to be humble and honest with your children. If you make a mistake, admit it. Your kids are smart. They will realize you are not perfect. As teenagers, they will be more likely to share their struggles with you and seek your counsel if you have been open in the past about your own failures.” Advice salted with godly wisdom from nine seasoned parents — I have some tips of my own to share, not nearly as profound, but useful, nonetheless. 1. Buy stock in companies that produce bandages

and diapers. You will feel a sense of elation at being personally responsible for the economic success of these firms. 2. For girls, never buy a dress without first consider­ ing the “twirl” factor. 3. For boys, don’t worry if the only word he knows is “vroom.” 4. Keep your sense of humour. What upsets you now will be good joke material in five years. 5. In all situations, apply the “Thousand-Year Test.” Ask yourself, “In a thousand years, will anyone care?” 6. Don’t be too hard on yourself. You will fail. For­ give yourself and move on. 7. Above all, love “because love covers over a mul titude of sins” (I Peter 4:8). Lorraine Pintas contributes to many Christian magazines, speaks at conferences, and leads "Hearts at Home Ministries” marriage seminars with her husband. Used by permission of David C. Cook.

Ready or Not, You’re a Grandparent! Debra Evans “MOM...DAD...GUESS WHAT? We’re expecting a baby.” The news confirms it: a grandchild is on the way! And whether this is your first, second, or tenth grand­ child, the announcement comes as a powerful re­ minder of the dynamic family bonds you share. “When my daughter-in-law called to tell me the news, I was holding a cup of coffee,” reports Janice. “With­ out looking, 1 went to set it on the table, but the table wasn’t there. Bam! Down went the china mug. Up went the coffee.” Unlike Janice, Ed had been looking forward to be-

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coming a grandparent for a number of years. “Being a dad, for me, was practice for being a granddad, though I’d never admit it to my kids,” he says, grinning widely. “That’s because my grandfather was my favourite per­ son in the world while I was growing up — the only one who loved me unconditionally, no matter how mis­ chievous I was! Now that my daughter is expecting a baby. I’m really looking forward to being able to just pour on the love.” For Sharon, the less-than-ideal circumstances sur­ rounding her grandchild’s conception did not dispel her inner excitement when her son’s teenage girlfriend announced the pregnancy test’s positive results. “I know they’re going to face tough times, and I’m wor­ ried about that. “But I also know that my grandchild deserves all the love and support I can give. It wouldn’t make any sense for me to make things any more complicated or diffi­ cult than they already are.” What Janice, Ed, and Sharon discovered on the day they learned about their grandchildren’s conception is that grandchildren do not come by our choice. Ex­ pecting a grandchild is about accepting new roles and responsibilities that arrive regardless of our advice or consent. Our grandchildren are given to us ready to be unconditionally nurtured, cuddled, and cared for. And opening our hearts to them changes us for the rest of our lives. “Getting ready for grandparenting is entirely different THE MESSENGER

“A. new generation of elders is appearing in the 'advanced’ countries of the world. In the future, four-generation families will become more commonplace. ” from getting ready for parenting,” explains Dr. Charmaine L. Ciardi. “There’s no morning sickness or swollen feet, but there are changes. Our place in the family circle shifts, and subtle developments in our thoughts and attitudes are necessary to give birth to the grandparent in each of us.”

Grandparents in the spotlight Like most expectant grandparents today, you prob­ ably do not feel ready to sit quietly for hours in a rock­ ing chair or on the front porch swing. As you look in the mirror, you may have a bit of difficulty calling your­ self “Grandma” or “Grandpa,” in spite of the new gray hairs you discover growing near your temples. Your life is busy, activity filled, rewarding. Slowing down to savour the next generation may sound very appeal­ ing, yet you can’t help but wonder: What will it be like to be a grandparent? As our generation grows older, millions of us will be asking ourselves this key question. Perhaps this is why the grandparent rote seems to be receiving more pub­ lic attention than ever before. Grandparenting classes abound around the country; magazines and newspa­ per articles feature prominent grandparenting stories; movies and television shows depict intergenerational family sagas; states pass laws ensuring grandparents’ visitation rights after divorce. But grandparents have always been special. Why all this fuss about a basic family tie that goes all the way back to Genesis? “A new generation of elders is appearing in the ‘ad­ vanced’ countries of the world,” explains Dr. Arthur Kornhaber in Between Parents and Grandparents. “The beneficiaries of social and medical progress, they are long-lived, healthy, educated, and more economi­ cally secure than at any other time in recorded his­ tory. Within a decade, their children will be grandpar­ ents. In the future, four-generation families will be­ come more commonplace.” For those of us who treasure our family relationships, this is truly good news. We look forward, with eager anticipation, to coming “full circle” — embracing a brand-new generation. We view grandparent status as a matchless reward for the long years of parenthood. We believe that be­ coming grandparents will open up a bright horizon of premium opportunities to us. And upon hearing the mind-boggling news of our grandchild’s conception, we already know in our hearts that the adventure is just starting. “Simply becoming grandparents can open creative floodgates for elders to use the gift of time, health, and vitality, and gain the love and respect they deserve, “ Dr. Kornhaber asserts. “Also, it can earn them a vital place in the hearts of their loved ones and an impor­ tant role in their communities. “Shared with parents, the linchpin of the connection MAYS, 1998

between grandparents and grandchildren, their role enriches all their lives and assures the continuity of the family. This is the greatest gift of all.”

What only grandparents can offer Over the past decade, grandparents’ involvement in providing effective birth and parenting support has sig­ nificantly increased. As more couples realize the ben­ efits of grandparenting to their children — and them­ selves — they are inviting their parents to play a more active part in their children’s lives from the very first moments. They understand that the presence of caring, consid­ erate grandparents adds a rich dimension to family life that simply cannot be achieved by any other means. The reasons for today’s renewed interest in reviving the grandparent’s role include these;

• Grandparents function as a priceless family-life resource. Grandparents’ gifts of time, love, wisdom, practi­ cal support, and perspective significantly en­ hance, enrich, and enlarge family bonds. • Grandparents create cherished opportunities for multigeneratlonal get-togethers. Holiday traditions, birthday celebrations, memo­ rable milestones, and other important events are passed from one generation to the next by grand­ parents. • Grandparents offer the calming reassurance of continuity. The kind of love and tender care grandparents offer supplies a soothing beilm in a stressful world, demonstrating that the family is durable in times of change.

• Grandparents provide a strong sense of history. Children learn about who their families are and where their families come from when grandpar­ ents share their stories, pictures, recipes, and memories with their family’s latest additions. • Grandparents function as a back-up system in times of change and crisis. Families acutely appreciate knowing that there is “someone to fall back on” when exceptional events — such as childbirth, unemployment, sud­ den relocation, divorce, remarriage, serious ill ness, or death — occur. • Grandparents teach powerful truths about God. As grandparents’ faith is lived out before an ever­ watching younger generation, little ones see God’s love displayed in many delightful forms. PAGES

“Thankfully, grandparents are waking up to the challenge of nurturing the next generation. Given current social challenges, our children and grandchildren appreciate our assistance. ” “Becoming a grandparent is a deeply meaningful event in a person’s life,” confirm researchers Andrew J. Cherlin and Frank R Furstenberg in The New Ameri­ can Grandparent. “Seeing the birth of grandchildren...is an affirmation of the value of one’s life and, at the same time, a hedge against death. Grandchildren are also a great source of personal pleasure. Freed from the re­ sponsibilities of parenthood, grandparents can una­ bashedly enjoy their grandchildren.” Thankfully, grandparents are waking up to the chal­ lenge of nurturing the next generation. Given current social challenges, our children and grandchildren ap­

preciate our assistance. And, as Dr. Kornhaber reminds us, we have a higher level of education, better health, more resources, and a longer life expectancy than any previous generation has had. It’s a great time to be a grandparent! Debra Evans is a mother, wife and grandmother, as well as a teacher of grandparenting classes, a childbirth educator and writer. Her books include Kindred Hearts, Christian Parenting Today Answer Book, and Beauty and the Best. She and her family make their home in Texas. Used by per­ mission of David C. Cook.

Motherhood Debbie Martens MOTHERHOOD IS one of the most wonderful and awe­ some gifts, or tasks, a woman has. It is the most selfless in the world, and it is our job, as mothers, to love our children, through thick and thin, from the time the child is a thought in our minds till the time that either we or the child die. God has given us children and, in turn, we direct their thoughts and hearts back to Him. 1 am often reminded of the song “Here I Am” as I raise my children. The chorus. Here I am, Lord, Is it I, Lord? I have heard you calling in the night. I will go, Lord, if you lead me. I will hold your people in my heart, re­ minds me that children are people. They are not just “kids” but little people whom God loves. When they cry at night or whine all day, when they have you so frustrated, all you can do is love them. My daughter’s favourite time of the day is 5:30 in the morn­ ing. She comes into my room with the words: “Eat time. Eat time.” At times 1 am near the end of my rope, and my son comes up to me, 1 gives me a hug, and says, “1 love you. Mommy.” Meanwhile, the bathroom is dirty from one end to the other, and the toilet is running over because he has tried to f<2» clean himself up. I find it quite a responsi­ bility raising my two children. A mother has many jobs, and her services are free: owner of Mom’s Restaurant, fast food open all day, diaper-change station right in * her own bathroom, dish­ washer, laundromat, chauf­ feur, personal trainer, correcPAGE 6

tional officer, spiritual advisor, full night-and day-care facilitator, shopper, singer (whether you can sing or not), doctor, nurse, teacher, and many others. (This is for those who ask, “Do you have a job?”) Some moms have jobs outside the home as well. Wow! God has entrusted mothers with this special gift of life — a child to raise to His honour and glory. Just think what an awesome and wonderful “job” we mothers have, raising the children He gives us! Thank you. Mom!

Debbie Martens is from Morris, Man., where she attends the Morris Fellowship Chapel (EMC). She is the mother of two children. THE MESSENGER

Letters A WORD OF THANKS In the past fifteen months my name has come up on many of your prayer request lists, and so 1 thought it was high time 1 said thank you. God’s plan for my life certainly isn’t what 1 had anticipated. When He took my beloved husband, Delbert, on January 15, 1997, and left me a widow at thirty-five with a seven-yearold and a three-month old, 1 thought life would be tough; little did 1 know that would be just the beginning. Four months later 1 was “officially” diagnosed with Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia, and on March 13, 1998, 1 received a bone mar­ row transplant.

Melody Penner is a member of the Ridgewood EMC. She has two children, Carly and Austin.

Many, many of you have sent cards, vis­ ited and prayed with and for me. It is truly only by those prayers that I’m here today to thank you. Many times I have heard from friends and family who said they had been at a different church and my name was mentioned. While I can’t thank each

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of you personally, 1 do send each of you my deepest gratitude. 1 still have a very long road to complete recovery, and I’m quite literally a child again, requiring quite a bit of care. There is something exciting about being a child, and that is my new appreciation for our wonderful God. All the prayers and sup­ port have shown me how unfailing our precious Saviour is. He never leaves me alone (even when 1 was quite sure He wasn’t there), and your prayers have car­ ried me to Him in the darkest moments. There are no words to show you how much 1 have appreciated each of your prayers; please just know that 1 would not be here without them. 1 know that since God has brought me this far He must not be done with me yet. Melody Penner Ridgewood EMC DO YOU ENJOY COOKING? Because 1 know there are so many EX­ CELLENT dishes out there in our Evangeli­ cal Mennonite Conference, 1 am inviting the whole EMC family — from Burns Lake, B.C., to Straffordville, Ont. —- to sub­ mit recipes for a cookbook to be printed in the near future! Send one or two of your favourite reci­ pes (one recipe per sheet, please) byJune 15,1998, to: Mrs. Melanie (Penner) Frayle, RO. Box 8, Grp. 18, R.R.l, Steinbach, Man. ROA 2A0. Be sure to include your name and the church you attend, f^oofread your reci­ pes carefully! Feel free to enclose a oneor two-sentence note on how your recipe is special; for example, “This recipe has been in our family for four generations.” All monies earned above expenses, in­ cluding coordination, will be donated to our EMC missions program for the Lord’s work to be furthered around the world. 1 am really excited about having a cook­ book in my kitchen and yours featuring a variety of “tried-and-true” recipes drawn from our rich culinary heritage — and

hope you are too! To make this happen, I need your help. Note: To ensure that everyone has a chance to participate and to allow for more recipes in the cookbook, the dead­ line for recipe submissions has been ex­ tended to June 15. Don’t delay! Melanie Frayle Steinbach, Manitoba EDITORIAL WENT BEYOND EMC STATEMENT I’m writing regarding the cover story and editorial in the February 25 issue (“Seek No Peace Through War!”). It is quite biblical to remind us that the Christian Church is to work toward peace, and it is quite appropriate for Christians to oppose a specific war like that in the Persian Gulf, as the editorial does. But the statements “Our historic peace position...involves a clear rejection of war,” and “Christians have good reasons to be opposed to any war” go beyond both the Bible and the EMC Statement of Faith. As a church and as individual Christians we are to work toward peace by peace­ ful means. For the state, however, which is a secular authority instituted by God to restrain evil in an imperfect world, the use of force is legitimate and sometimes nec­ essary (Romans 13:1-5, especially verse 4). In my opinion, this applies both within the state (police force) and between states (military force). As nonresistant Christians, it is true that “we cannot support war.... Instead of tak­ ing up arms, we should do whatever we can to lessen human distress and suffering...we should be peacemakers and ministers of reconciliation” (EMC Statement of Faith). We are to work posi­ tively for peace as a church and as indi­ viduals. BUT this does not mean that we are called to oppose every state-spon­ sored military action. Wes Dick Calgary, Alberta

With Our Missionaries Editor’s note: No EMCers were killed. Many people are affected by the event. They need our prayers.

FIVE DIE IN NTM PLANE CRASH Five people were killed on March 23 in the crash of a New Tribes Mission plane in southern Venezuela. Dead are the pilot, Rick Burd, 45, of York, Pfennsylvania; Tim Stucky, 15, of Kansas; Bob McCormick, 60, and wife Ida McCormick, 56, of Whitehorse, Yukon

MAY 6, 1998

Territory; and Freda Lopez of Venezuela. The Cessna 207 left the village of Torqui on Monday morning for a return flight to Puerto Ayacucho. The last radio contact was shortly before takeoff. When the plane did not arrive on sched­ ule at Puerto Ayacucho, a search began. On Tuesday morning, NTM members on a search plane spotted the crash site, get­ ting glimpses as they flew past a cliff face. Poor visibility, high winds, and moun­ tainous terrain kept searchers away until

a team was able to land above the crash and rappel down. Rick Burd had recently been appointed coordinator of NTM’s South American flight program. He and his wife, Cynthia, have two children, Jennifer, 23, and Jonathan, 20. Tim Stucky was the son of NTM mission­ aries Maurice and Liz Stucky, who work with the Panare tribe in Venezuela. He was travelling to get his passport re­ newed. He has two sisters, Christina, 17, PAGE?

and Marilyn, 10. Bob and Ida McCormick were associate missionaries serving at the Mission school in Tama Tama. They were travelling to buy

DURHAM. ONTARIO LIFE IS SLIPPING AWAY Seize the day... 'cause life slips away like hourglasses.... Suddenly these are more than just words 1 hear on my CD player now and then. When 1 first heard that song come from my music box, I thought to myself, “How pretty,” but did not stop to listen to the lyrics closely until 1 read a letter from Tim Stucky’s mother. (Tim was the fifteen­ year-old in the recent plane crash in Ven­ ezuela.) The e-mail messages Liz Stucky sent for family and friends who were not in Ven­ ezuela read like a journal. She describes the days of wondering and waiting and shares verses the Lord used in their lives during that time, like Psalm 115 and Ro­ mans 15:13, to name a few. It is quite obvious that the Lord has blessed them with remarkable peace and a beautiful sense of His greatness and goodness dur­ ing this whole “tragedy.” She goes on to describe the memorial services that were held — first the joint one for all five of them and then the one for Tim at our school in Tama Tama. Here some of Tim’s classmates shared experi­ ences and testimonies. One friend, who had done some moun­ tain climbing with him, said Tim beat him to heaven and that the five in the crash are really more alive today than we all are. (Apparently Tim loved airplanes and mountains, the combination of which the Lord used to take him home.) Tim’s sister played “To God be the Glory,” and other praise songs were sung. The choir sang a favourite song of Tim’s, also called “Seize the Day,” though it has different lyrics. After reading the letter, 1 pulled out my CD and listened more closely. Now 1 hear even the version 1 have with different “ears.” Seize the day, seize whateuer you can, ‘cause life slips away just like hourglasses. How true! In a later e-mail, Liz describes what it was like to return to their tribal village af­ ter their time away. One of the believers there asked them if Tim was righteous before God. When they answered af­ firmatively, he said, “So you don’t need to be sad; you will get to see him again. It is not so for me; my daughter died before you all came. She died not knowing Je­ sus, so 1 won’t get to see her again. I still am sad about that.” Wow! What a reminder for us to seize the days we have! Now is the time for salvation. Now is the time to share the Gospel with those who need to hear. Such is the nature of the mail that has PAGES

supplies to help a missionary team. They have three grown children, Rod, Bob, and Debbie. Freda Lopez was flying out to go to the

F Amanda Barkman (BlumenorlJ is teach­ ing at the New Tribes headquarters in Durham, Ontario, and plans to return to Venezuela in May to teach missionary children.

been arriving at my house in these days, while 1 am in the process of making plans and getting my things together in prepa­ ration for my return to Venezuela on May 30. As tragic and shocking as the news seems, it has not detracted me from my desire to head back. On the contrary, the more 1 reflect on it the more I sense a

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United States to attend the graduation of her son Roel from Rio Grande Bible Insti­ tute in Edinburg, Texas. She also has a daughter attending there. NTM Sources

peace and contentment regarding my re­ turn. I treasure the past two years I have had here in Canada, one in Manitoba with family and friends and one here in On­ tario at the New Tribes headquarters, teaching the children of staff and of those in missionary training. What a privilege to be involved in the lives of people who are preparing for ministries in different parts of the world and those involved in preparing them! I can truly say 1 feel refreshed and very encouraged as I look forward to moving back to our mission school in Venezuela. 1 continue to be concerned about my pre­ cious, aging parents, but 1 want to trust the Lord with that situation too. A couple from here spent their Christ­ mas break in Venezuela and had occa­ sion to visit the village where many of my native friends live. When they returned they brought pictures and letters for me that have tugged on my heart. (1 am sure you know how that is.) Please let me express my sincerest grati­ tude to you as a church body that sup­ ports missions and makes it possible for me to be involved in teaching missionary children. Thank you for your continuing prayers and support. Amanda Barkman

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Canadian friends visit the Piaroa village near our school in Venezuela. The gentleman. Bob McCormick, was one of the five killed in the New Tribes Mission plane crash in Venezuela; he is now with the Lord. THE MESSENGER

YALVE SANGA. PARAGUAY

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FLOODING IN PARAGUAY On Sunday morning, March 22, El Nino hit Valve Sanga. Early Sunday afternoon, after having at­ tended church in Filadelfia, we suddenly received news that it had rained four hun­ dred millimetres in Valve Sanga that morn­ ing and that all the roads were flooded. Our neighbours, who had been to church in Filadelfia, telephoned and asked if they could travel back with us, since they would never make it with their little car. We have a one-ton Chevy pick­ up that sits high off the road, with an ex­ cellent driver! People in Valve Sanga know that Jake Lepp usually makes it through. Well, this time we would not have made it. We finally left Filadelfia at 3:30 p.m., loaded with ten grown-ups and six chil­ dren. We arrived at the Valve Sanga turn­ off where the Valve Sanga tractor just hap­ pened to be placing a Road Closed sign. (For us this wasn’t chance, it was God’s leading.) The tractor driver offered to pull us through, so we switched off the motor

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WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE SPIRITUAL? Six different Mennonite conferences, from different areas of Mexico, gathered April 13-17 for the annual lAMUM (Union of Anabaptist Mennonite Churches of Mexico) workshop. They got together for fellowship and to study different aspects of the topic “From Spiritualism to Spiritu­ ality.” Participants came from Puebla, Mexico City, Cuernavaca, Sinaloa, Sonora, Tamaulipas and, of course, Chihuahua, and included pastors, lay people, youth, children, women and men, representing many different aspects of church life but all united by their common identity in Je­ sus Christ. Different races and languages — Spanish, English and German — were also represented. Some sixty people were registered, and there were also visitors from the community present for the evening service. Our speaker for the event was Mario Higueros, dean of the Latin American seminary (SEMILLA), with its head offices in Guatemala. Mario’s wife, Paquita, joined us and used a slot each day to ex­ plain different aspects of prayer. Areas of spirituality that were discussed included perfection, fasting, holiness, prayer and adoration. We were chal­ lenged to think of spirituality not only in terms of our relationship to God (in a ver­ tical sense) but also to our neighbour (in a horizontal sense) as being part of our relationship to God and part of our spir­ ituality. The teaching was grounded in 1998

and prepared for the ride. Just at the entrance of Valve Sanga, where there are normally two little dug­ outs in the pasture, there was now one big lake. The tips of the bridge posts were showing, as were the tips of the fence posts. The water was at least a metre deep, so we ended up with a lot of water inside the truck — but we made it through. Our own house, as well as the Bible school, was sitting high and dry. Only a few houses in Valve Sanga had water in­ side, although most had been surrounded by water. A number of outhouses had fallen over, so the students dug new holes. The Indian villages fared much worse, since most of the homes are built of adobe bricks and do not have a solid foun­ dation, but help is on the way. We consider ourselves to be very fortu­ nate. We only have the problem of an unpleasant smell in the truck from the sopping felt layer beneath the carpet, and we have to drive a very roundabout route to Filadelfia. We are thankful that God protected us. Jake Lepp

different passages of Scripture and dis­ cussed from an Anabaptist perspective. Cooking for the event was done by a mixed group of German-speaking women from one of the colonies and some of our Hispanic sisters. It was wonderful to see the integration in the kitchen, as well as in the discussion groups and during serv­ ices and mealtime. One of the highlights of the week was the communion service held on Thursday night. A display with many symbolic items and some dramatized aspects of com­ munion, helped make it a very special event, fomenting an atmosphere of cel­ ebration and making it an expression of community. A group from Mexico City and Sinaloa/ Sonora went on a short tour of some of the colonies, including the homes and businesses of some of the Low German­ speaking people (apple orchards, cheese factories, machinery). Ernie Koop

Ernie and Diane Koop are EMC church planters in Mexico. They live in Chihua­ hua City with their sons, Michael and Christopher.

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Luella Loewen, (above) one of our mis­ sionaries, lives at the same station as Jake Lepp. Jake is the director of the Bible school in Yalve Sanga.

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WSrtd""’"'* Lester Olfert Foreign Secretary

Peacemaker Martyred Another peacemaker has been mar­ tyred! MENOPAZ, the Latin America peace and justice committee, writes (loosely translated): “Monsignor Juan Jose Gerardi Conedera of Guatemala died from a blow to the head on April 26, 1998. An individual waited in the darkness of the parochial dwelling and attacked the priest with a large stone. “It seems paradoxical that the mur­ derer, or murderers, wanted to obliter­ ate the face of one who was working for peace, because that face reflected the justice and forgiveness of God. “Monsignor Gerardo was coordinating the Historical Recuperation Project for the archbishopric. The objective was to bring to light the truth of the violence that many Guatemalans have suffered in recent years. He had stated that the building of the Kingdom has its risks, and only those who have the hope of peace have the strength to face these risks.” To continue to proclaim the gospel of peace by word and deed, the churches and institutions that work for peace need the support, prayers and solidarity of Christians around the world. The EMC has missionaries in places of conflict. Let’s pray for them. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the sons of God.” PAGE 9

FORT CHIPEWYAN. A1.RERTA

WHAT ARE ARLYN AND ANN UP TO? Arlyn and Ann van Enns (La Crete) serve as EMC workers under Northern Canada Evangelical Mission, out of Fort Chipewyan in northern Alberta. These photos — taken by them and Ann’s father, Harold Walton — show a bit of what they are up to. «

THEY CELEBRATE! «

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Arlyn says that is a banana plant growing out of his head. He successfully blows out the “thirty-something” candles on his cake. Joining in on the celebration are NCEM’s western field director, Ron Knightly, and Derrick and Jean Hiscox, now with the television program Tribal Trails (formerly of New Tribes Mission in Brazil).

A high-school reunion — and Arlyn is there for part of it. The photo includes five EMCers, from La Crete, Grande Prairie, and Fort Chipewyan, Alberta.

What a boost when parents visit! Howard and Mae Walton of Oregon sit with their daughter, Ann van Enns, in Fort Chipewyan, Alberta.

THEY CAPTURE SMILES!

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A camera often attracts a child’s interest.

Girls along the lower Peace River, Wood Buffalo National Park.

Children of the most northerly Cree village in Canada.

THEY DO THE CHORES!

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Towing a dry tree home for firewood.

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Unloading pulling dogs, dry wood, and tent poles at a fish camp in the Peace-Athabaska Delta.

Arlyn is “extricating himself” from driftwood following a big storm on Lake Athabaska. In the foreground are abandoned moosehide shoes. THE MESSENGER

THEY VISIT!

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Arlyn visits a camp on the Sieve River.

This Is a “berry camp” on an unnamed creek In the northeast corner of Alberta.

Arlyn visits every home in part of an “unreached” northern First Nations village.

THEY TRAVEL!

“No, Mom and Dad, It will be another three months before we can drive to the outside.”

Like it or not, being a northern missionary involves lots of flying in small planes.

THEY SHARE CHRIST!

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George Wanderspirit, “first believer from Fort Chlpewyan, Alberta.” MAYS, 1998

reel Arlyn van Enns was accepted by the Board of Missions in 1982, reaching the field in 1983. He is an ordained EMC min­ ister. Ann has been active in urban missions in the United States and as a Bible Col­ lege teacher in Canada. She joined the EMC missionary family in 1993.

The family drives to a camp to buy dry fish.

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN A WINTER VACATION? 1

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Throughout celebrations, the captur- i j ing of smiles, doing the chores, visits i and travel, Arlyn and Ann van Enns are i j sharing the freeing news of Christ in a | I remote part of northern Alberta. ! To visit Arlyn and Ann at Fort “Chip” involves a “long day’s drive” from La I Crete, Alberta. Go north from High ! I Level to Hay River in the North-West I Territories and on to Fort Smith. At Fort [ Smith, take the winter road south-east j I to Fort Chipewyan. | Fort Chip has a population of 1,200. I j It is 80 to 90 miles south of the North: West Territories and 40 to 45 miles from Saskatchewan in the north-east corner of Alberta, we’re told. i Visitors can travel on the winter road I from roughly November-December ' until March-April, though it softened j early this year, according to Arlyn. Travellers are advised to make ad­ vance arrangements with Arlyn and Ann. Arlyn prefers to meet visitors on the winter road. The Editor PAGE 11

MEXICO FIELD VISIT

God Uses Ordinary People Lester Olfert Santo Tomas The singing was already in progress when we arrived at the Santo Tomas church on Sunday morning, March 8. 1 had not visited this church since the group had a congregational split ten years ago. Reconciliation took place about two years ago, and now the two groups are again meeting in the same building. After a few songs and choruses, Sun­ day school classes began. Homero, the adult teacher, did a good job of getting the people involved in reading Scripture portions and getting their point of view. The worship service that followed was attended by some fifty to sixty people. The singing and testimonies made for a worshipful atmosphere. Individuals re­ sponded spontaneously with thanks and praise to God with a Bible verse or by telling of blessings during the past week.

affiliation with the CEMM (Conferencia Evangelica Misionera de Mexico), the conference started by EMC Missions. We attended their special first-Fridayof-the-month concert of prayer. We were drawn into fellowship with God and with these sisters and brothers as they opened their hearts to God in praise, petition and intercession.

a talented builder and mason. Their seven-month-old son does not have his own bedroom, but they have plans of adding to their home when finances be­ come available. During the field visit, Darlene and 1, ac­ companied by Charity Schellenberg, a member of the Board of Missions, visited a number of other congregations. 1 was impressed by the way God is using dif­ ferent individuals to build the church.

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Juarez The first Sunday we visited the Juarez church, where Jake and Bertha Kroeker have provided leadership. Because of health reasons the Kroekers had to leave unexpectedly in December. The lay lead­ ers of the church have been carrying on the ministry but are looking to God to supply them with a dedicated and capa­ ble leader. After an enthusiastic service and a de­ licious “hot” meal. Charity, Ernie Koop and 1 met with the church board to dis­ cuss their future. Gabino, Blanca, Clotilde, Manuel, and Victor were confi­ dent that they could handle the ministry for a while, using the gifts of the various individuals, but said they needed help and encouragement.

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Isaac and Maria Bergen, with their family, serve the Anahuac church. They are missionaries supported by the Blumenau General Conference Church.

Camp 77 We found the congregation at Camp 77 struggling with how they would continue their ministry. Ralph Dueck, who has been used of God as pastor, has been unable to continue active ministry be­ cause of a heart condition. He and his wife, Elizabeth, have a concern for the many people in the area who are out of

Anahuac Isaac and Maria Bergen, missionaries supported by the Blumenau General Conference Church, provide leadership to the Anahuac church. This church has Homero teaches Sunday school in the Santo Tomas church.

Later that afternoon, when we visited Homero and Lorenza in their home, he told us he had entered into a personal relationship with God only three years ago. He told of his desire to know more about God as an adolescent in the Ro­ man Catholic church. He and three other boys had started a Bible study group. Their pleas to the priest and sisters in the church for guid­ ance had at first been ignored and then opposed. The Bible study group had grown, but finally they had been denied the use of the parish hall. Today, he said, the two other young men are pastors and soon he might be a pastor as well. It was exciting to note his hunger for the Word of God and his desire to be used of God to bring the message of Jesus to others. Homero, a builder, has just recently built a home in a new part of Santo Tomas. The quality of the house revealed PAGE 12

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Board of Missions member Charity Schellenberg and Foreign Secretary Lester Olfert met the Juarez church board: Clotilde, Blanca, Victor, Gabino, and Manuel. THE MESSENGER

touch with God. The church is also struggling because attendance has dropped, mainly as a re­ sult of people migrating to other places in search of greater economic, educa­ tional, or spiritual opportunities. How­ ever, they are making an impact in the community. During the past year nine young people have been baptized; the report is in the January 28 Messenger. For the time being, Thomas Flett is fill­ ing the pulpit three Sundays a month, but a more permanent replacement is needed.

El Picacho

leadership. Arnaldo has been serving as pastor for some time, but since he was married in August he has gained more respect. The church has decided to go ahead on their own without continual (permanent) missionary involvement. 1 was encour­ aged by Arnaldo’s statement in a meet­ ing where the Juarez church situation was being discussed. He said, “They need to do what we have just done. We put on our own shoes, started walking by ourselves, and are already seeing posi­ tive results." Later, during a meal with Arnaldo and Rebecca, I asked what those positive re-

On a Monday evening we visited the con­ gregation in El Picacho. They had invited us to a potluck supper so that we could meet the congregation. Before the sup­ per was served, we were treated to some hearty singing. Visiting this congregation was a special treat for Darlene and me because this was the place where we started our missionary experience back in 1968.

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Rebecca and Arnaldo Gonzalez give leadership to the Efrata church in Chihuahua City. Arnaldo is the pastor.

Lester and Darlene Olfert “started their missionary experience back in 1968” in El Picacho, getting to know Luz and Guillermina Gonzalez. Luz and Guillermina “have served the Lord faithfully through the years.”

We renewed our friendship with Luz and Guillermina, a Christian couple whom we got to know at that time. They have served the Lord faithfully through the years. Though Brother Luz has diffi­ culty walking and can no longer work because of arthritis, he faithfully attends services with his wife. Here we also met Antonio and Leticia and their daughter, Ana Carmen. He is a junior-high teacher in the village. He serves the church on a voluntary basis as a minister of the Word. They also serve in Santa Ana, ten kilometres away, on Sunday mornings and at a weeknight Bible study. In her new assignment, Catherine Thiessen will be working with them and Hortensia from Santa Ana.

Chihuahua City The last Sunday we attended the Efrata church in Chihuahua City, where Catherine Thiessen has served during the past number of years. Pastor Arnaldo Gonzalez and his wife, Rebecca, provide MAYS, 1998

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suits were. He responded that the peo­ ple of the church are taking on responsi­ bility of things that they thought they couldn’t do, there is vision, and the at­ tendance has increased. Meeting these people and visiting the churches was tremendously encourag­ ing. We also visited the missionaries and were motivated by their dedicated in­ volvement. Again 1 saw how God takes ordinary people and uses them in the building of His Kingdom. There is op­ portunity for more ordinary people to join the team of Mexican sisters and broth­ ers and the missionaries in the task of evangelism and discipling the people of Mexico.

A Prayer The last Sunday morning I took an early morning walk in the area where Ernie and Diane Koop live. 1 climbed a knoll from which 1 could look over a large part of Chihuahua City, whose growing popu­ lation now is beyond the one-million mark. It looked so peaceful early that morning, but 1 realized that in so many homes and lives there was turmoil. My prayer that morning was that God would strengthen the witness of those in that city who have committed their lives to God, to bring the message of peace in Jesus Christ to their relatives, neighbours and co-workers. Will you join me in that prayer? And will you also pray that the Lord would send out more labourers into that whitened harvest?

Lester Olfert is EMC Foreign Secretary. The trip to Mexico was from February 28 to March 17.

Photos by Lester Olfert and Charity Schellenberg

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Chihuahua City is a modern, growing city with a popuiation of more than a miiiion people.

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You are invited to participate in

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The 4th Annual EMC Golf Classic at the

Steinbach Fly-in Golf Course

June 25, 1998 Rain or Shine 1?®D’ Supporting: Inner City Youth Alive and the Rwanda Widows Project

Betty Koop La Crete, Alberta

SUSANNA Susanna stood in front of their isolated log cabin at the edge of the Peace River surveying its jagged ice-covered surface. She was looking for any signs of spring break-up. She thought of their first baby, which had not survived even though they had made the long trek to the only doctor available in this vast Peace River terri­ tory. Now Susanna was expecting a sec­ ond child. She longed to be with some of her own people for this birth; another woman of like faith would be wonder­ ful. Susanna had been married to Abe Wieler in 1937 in Carcajou, which was situated on a flat near the Peace River. Her parents had been among the early settlers of this region in the far north of Alberta, more than 700 km north of Ed­ monton. The young couple enjoyed life, even though it was hard. Susanna was a good shot with her squirrel gun, and she helped Abe on the trapline. Their black cats were lively companions, and the fact that one was named Hiller shows that they were not unaware of world events, even in their isolated cabin! Now spring and a new baby’s arrival were near, and they agreed it would be good to go to “civilization” where some help would be available. The river was their highway, so they would have to wait until it started breaking up before PAGE 14

Bm(J®[?iiiTa§iSB®m ®®ml!ai©Gs 204-255-8062 Ruth Penner 204-378-5224 Ray Dueck 204-746-8200 Ron Friesen

venturing out. Abe lashed two canoes together, one to carry them and the other for their sup­ plies. Carefully they loaded the neces­ sary gear for their trip downriver. The river was high, and the ice floes were grinding by at a good rate, when they decided to embark. They made good time, with a strong current, avoid­ ing the ice as best they could. Susanna got very cramped and tired from sitting in the canoe, so they docked al a massive ice floe. A brisk walk re­ stored some circulation! As evening approached they began to look for a place to camp, but the Peace River banks were steep and unstable for long stretches. However, on rounding a sharp bend, Abe saw a large tree over­ hanging the river. He managed to grasp it, haul himself up and walk along the trunk to land, where he fastened the ca­ noes. But how could he get his young wife up the steep bank? A resourceful woodsman, he chopped down two small but sturdy saplings and stripped them of branches. He passed these down to Susanna in the canoe, and she carefully balanced them against the top of the bank. Then, using a ham­ mer and nails she had retrieved from their supply canoe, she nailed short crosspieces to the saplings, crawling up this makeshift ladder as she worked. They set up their tent. She told me how homey it felt, surrounded by a dense stand of spruce. The sounds of rabbits scurrying around outside the tent at night was most companionable! Her husband prayed, and they fell asleep with the knowledge of God’s protecting hand over them. In the morning a fresh blanket of snow met their eyes. Again they set out. The fast-flowing river carried them along swiftly. Finally

MARTENS - BARTEL: Henry Martens of Steinbach, Man., was married on February 7, 1998, to Calhleen, daughter of Alvin and Tina Bartel of Steinbach. The wedding took place at the Steinbach EMC, with Mel Koop officiating. The couple is making their home in Steinbach. BUHR - DYCK: Robert, son of Albert and Kathy Buhr of Steinbach, Man., and Sandra, daughter of Jac and Tina Dyck of Steinbach, were married at the Steinbach EMC on February 28, 1998, with Arden Thiessen officiating. The couple is residing in Steinbach. FRIESEN - REIMER: Nathan, son of Wes and Elaine Friesen of Steinbach, Man., and BobbieJo, daughter of Ron and Dianne Reimer of Steinbach, were married on March 14, 1998. The wedding took place at the Steinbach EMC, with Mel Koop officiating. The couple is making their home in Steinbach.

they arrived al their destination, the homestead of an uncle and aunt who lived near the river, some miles from present-day La Crete. Landing was another adventure. This time they clambered over huge chunks of ice piled up haphazardly by the cur­ rent. They dragged the canoes up to safety and then walked to their relatives’ small cabin, thankful to be on solid ground once more. A tiny nearby cabin served as a tem­ porary home. It had no door, so they hung a tarp over the opening to keep out inquisitive chickens. A short while later, a healthy baby girl arrived, with the aunt as midwife. That was May 6, 1940 — what a special Mother’s Day gift! As Mrs. Wieler told me this story 1 was again amazed at the perseverance and stamina of our pioneer women. Their simple but obviously deep faith and their endurance in the face of great hardship challenged me to examine my way of life. Mrs. Wieler has now been a widow for many years and has passed her eighti­ eth birthday. She still takes care of her own house and yard, with some help from the grandchildren, and is one of the faithful workers at the weekly MCC quilts making sessions. She again showed her courage and her faith when, in her mid-seventies, she at­ tended Christian Life classes, worked through each lesson carefully, gave her testimony before the congregation and transferred her membership to our church (La Crete Christian Fellowship). As “Pioneer Women” of another era, where are we on this scale of endurance and faithfulness that has been modelled for us by these staunch foremothers?

THE MESSENGER

THE WORSHIP SERVICE We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all the saints... Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spir­ itual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God (Colossians 1:3,4;3:16). It has been encouraging for Clara and me to visit the various churches of our conference and recognize the unique­ ness of each congregation — the number of people in attendance, the average age of those attending, city churches and rural churches, agricul­

tural differences from community to community. There are many differences, but there is also a deep sense of sameness — the desire to be faithful to Jesus Christ in the whole of life. This is seen in the simi­ larities in the worship styles. Whether they are small or large churches, rural churches or city churches, almost all of them use the worship-team approach in congregational singing, usually with a combination of choruses and hymns. It seems to me that worship teams have a greater tendency to introduce new songs than the lone song leader, likely because as a group they can bet­ ter support each other with a new melody and words than the song leader can by himself. This can be both positive and negative — negative in that the melodies may be difficult and new, and there may be too many of them in a short period of time, often a new one each Sunday. This cre­ ates a performance atmosphere and does not encourage congregational par­ ticipation.

It is positive in that songs that are new are enhanced by a worship team sing­ ing them well. Choruses and hymns that are known by the congregation, led by a strong worship team, create an atmos­ phere where singing together, praising God, “with gratitude in your hearts to God,” can take place. One of the things all participants in the worship service need to keep in mind is that the people in the audience have come to worship. Probably few have a music degree, and many of them can­ not even read music; they sing by ear. Think of the people who will come to worship, and prepare for them. That is equally true of the pastor preaching the sermon. The message given in the Sunday morning worship service needs to be well planned and brought to the people who will attend that service, not for a dream audience for which one would like to perform. The worship service should include the whole congregation in singing, pray­ ing and interacting with what is read and spoken.

Elizabeth Giesbrecht 1906-1997 Our mother passed away peacefully in her sleep at 8 o’clock on Sunday morn­ ing, October 26, 1997, at the Holiday Ha­ ven Nursing Home in Winnipeg. She was predeceased by her husband, William Giesbrecht, her parents, seven sisters and two brothers. Mother, Elizabeth Loewen, was born on February 16, 1906, near Winkler, Man., the tenth child of Peter and Agatha Loewen. Mother became aware of a spiritual need at the tender age of twelve in 1918, at which time she responded to an in­ vitation at an evangelistic meeting. Upon personal testimony of her faith, she was baptized on June 25, 1922, and became a member of the Winkler Mennonite Brethren Church. Then a special man, William Giesbrecht, came into her life, and the two became one when they were mar­ ried September 4, 1927, at the Kronsgart M. B. Church. In the next fourteen years, six children

— two boys and four girls — were born to them. During their married life, they set up housekeeping in at least sixteen different places, some in Saskatch­ ewan and others in Manitoba. The family moved to Lavenham, Man., in 1943, where they farmed for nineteen years. In 1962 they sold the farm and moved to Austin, Man. Here they enjoyed four years of retirement before it was cut short by Dad’s sud­ den death on November 17, 1966. On January 2, 1971, Mother moved to Winnipeg to live with her son David. During the years in Lavenham and Austin, Dad, Mother and the family were part of the MacGregor EMC. Af­ ter moving to Winnipeg, she joined the Crestview Fellowship, where she was the oldest member during the last few years. Many scriptures are underlined in her Bible, some with dates behind them, indicating that these portions had given her special strength during those times in her life. John 17 was a chapter she read many times after Dad died. Mother’s health was at times an ob­ stacle to being able to do all the work that needed to be done,but she taught her children to help. Sometimes the care of the family and farm was put on her shoulders when Dad had to be away. She did this very well, always making sure the day started with Bible reading and prayer to our heavenly Father, asking for en­ durance and strength for the day, al­ ways giving thanks for the His provi­

sions, spiritually and physically. Mother was concerned about the sal­ vation of everyone in her family. She loved to talk about her faith and the great love God has for mankind, so great that He gave His only begotten Son, Jesus, on our behalf so we can all have hope of salvation. Mother suffered a severe bout of shin­ gles in October 1990, from which she never totally recovered. Her slowing heartbeat was remedied by a pace­ maker in April 1996, but her body was tired and continued to deteriorate. Even so, it was important to her to read the Bible and pray every morning. On mornings when she was not well enough to be at the breakfast table, David would sit by her bedside and read and pray with her. When she couldn’t sleep at night, she would re­ cite Psalm 23 in either German or Eng­ lish. We grieve, but not as those who have no hope. We look forward to the resur­ rection when we will be united again. She leaves to cherish her memory her children: David (Winnipeg, Man.), Betty and Stan Crawford (Rycroft, Alta.), Bill (Brandon, Man.), Martha and Tom Grove (Columbia Falls, Montana), Kay and Abe Klassen (Winnipeg), Helen and Doug Johnson (Abbotsford, B.C.); sixteen grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren. Her Family

John Koop Conference Pastor

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MAY 6, 1998

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Steinbach Bible College, an evangelical­ anabaptist college affiliated with a Mennonite constituency invites applica­ tions for the position of professor of church music. The successful applicant will have a graduate degree (doctorate preferred) with competencies in choral conducting and related fields of church music. A willingness and ability to inte­ grate current trends and technologies with traditional music is desirable. Agreement with the statement of faith and lifestyle of the college will be re­ quired. The position starts August 1, 1998. Preference will be given to applications received before May 31, 1998. Submit applications and resumes to

Dr. Don Thiessen, academic dean, Steinbach Bible College, Box 1420, Steinbach, MB ROA 2A0. Phone 204326-6451 or E-mail: Don_thiessen@sbcollege.mb.ca

Pike! Pickeral! Perch! Whitefish! Trout! You! The Northern Fellowship Chapel (EMC) is fishing for a pastor. Half-time salary and modern housing provided. A trade is useful for other work. Contact: Search Committee, Northern Fellowship Chapel (EMC), Box 35, Creighton, SK SOP OAO. Or call board member Deb Odegaard at 306-688-2996 or Conference Pastor John Koop at 204-326-6401.

The Board of Church Ministries and the Board of Missions are inviting applications for a new, position of conference youth minister/executlve secretary. The applicant will be a mem­ ber of the EMC. For the Board of Church Ministries the work will include assisting with Abundant Springs, serving as a resource for youth leaders, visiting post-secondary students, and serving as a re­ source in the area of Christian Education for the churches. For the Board of Missions the work will involve . recruitment generally, but especially among youth; missions promotion in the Conference ; churches; direction of Project Macedonia; and Bible college visitation. For a more detailed job description, salary package, etc., contact the Conference Office, Box 1268, Steinbach, Man. ROA 2A0, telephone 204-326-6401, FAX 204-326-1613. Submit written application and resume to the : above address, Attention: Board of Church Min­ istries Chairman or Board of Missions Chairman.

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Heading South, Our Heart is North Christine Peters I still felt inadequate at times, wishing 1 could be more in­ PEOPLE ARE A GREAT influence in my life. 1 measure myself volved, but at the same time I had a fear of being involved and by other people and hope to become a better person by the making mistakes. There are many women in the church positive aspects 1 search out in them. 1 have a long way to go. whom 1 looked up to and from whom 1 learned a lot, and 1 Often 1 feel inadequate around others, so 1 suppose that is thank God for them. Women need a network of other women, why 1 am greatly influenced by how others live their lives. older and younger, to talk to, learn from, and to pass on what My father had great strength and determination. He was a they know, just as men need men, to become better persons, risk taker. My mother had a great gift of hospitality. The older husbands, fathers, and sons. my children get the more 1 see how all the things she did for Paul and 1 hope to find a church in Winnipeg like the Chapel, my brothers and me were out of selfless actions. My parents where we can walk in the front door and feel like a part of a are both gone now, and 1 try to remember their positive influ­ family, where we can make new friends and where we can ences. 1 suppose that is what most people do. Whether we learn and share our experiences. remember people who have died or those we have just moved Many changes have happened to us over the past five years, away from, we try to remember the good thoughts. and we try to see the positive aspect of each change. There Being a member of the Riverton Gospel Chapel, although for is always something to learn in every move we make in life. a short time, has been a great positive experience in my life Some moves we have chosen, and some moves are thrust and in the lives of my husband, Paul, and our children, Dexter and Hedi. upon us, sometimes unexpectedly. From Winnipeg to Marathon (Ontario), to Gimli, to Winni­ We will be leaving the church at the end of April and moving peg Beach, and now back to Winnipeg, my life has made a to Winnipeg to be closer to Paul’s work. Some members have full circle in five years. God has led my family to many won­ tried to convince us that since Paul won’t be commuting to derful people. Thank you to each member of Riverton Chapel work, we should think about commuting to church once a for the influence you have had on our family the past few years. week. It would be a nice idea, and we are flattered that the We have learned something from every one of you that we members think of us as an important addition to the church. will take with us as we look for a new church family. It will be hard to leave the Riverton Chapel. 1 grew up enter­ ing church through the basement, quickly hiding among the Christine Peters and her family attended the Piperton Gospel members, and blending into the woodwork. The Riverton Chapel while they Hued in Winnipeg Beach. She was the con­ church has given me a perspective of what kind of church 1 gregation’s reporter. want to belong to — a church that feels like a family; a church that has many families, intertwining, relating, and loving one another. Do you haue a story for The Personal Touch? It must be a true account (although names may be changed, if necessary) illustrating the Christian life or character. Send your 700-word story and a photograph of yourself or suggestion for a story Io the address below. PAGE 16

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