The Messenger May 26, 1999

EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE VOLUME 37 NUMBER 10 MAY 26, 1999

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Curl Up Under a Corner! THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH has been de­ scribed as a patchwork quilt made of many pieces, shapes and sizes. The Mennonite Church has been called “a many-splintered thing.” Both appear accurate. What’s most important, however, is to curl up under a Christ-centred corner of the quilt, and to invite others to do the same. Many Christians today are disturbed by the fragmentation of the Christian Church, yet we can also rejoice that the Church is wider and richer than we understand. Raised in the United Church, baptized in a Baptist church, and encouraged to study for the ministry by a Presbyterian pastor, I began ministerial training within the Pente­ costal Assemblies of Canada. I transferred to Steinbach Bible College, an interMennonite-conference institution (after praying about it with a charismatic Angli­ can priest and a Salvation Army officer). This year will mark twenty years since 1 joined the EMC and fourteen years since I became a minister; while I recognize this, I rejoice that Christ has been gracious to me, a sinner. I thank Him for His grace which has been experienced within various parts of His Church. While differences must not be overstated or denied, discussions among parts of the Christian Church need to continue about the person, mission and message of Christ, and the formation and mission of the Church. There are basic Christian truths to be affirmed in each generation (1 Cor. ISH­ II; Rom. 3:21-26). For various reasons, we cannot assume that these truths are equally valued in all parts of the Church. Discussions of Christ and the Church need, however, to come out of an active commitment to Him and our calling in His world. Like some who ponder differences among models of automobiles, we dare not discuss various matters of faith without choosing to drive or risk being left standing on the sidewalk! Dr. Reginald Bibby, the leading sociologist of religion in Canada, says many Canadi­ ans have a strong loyalty to a particular church, though they may be inactive or se­ lective in involvement. A church leader is quoted as saying, “It’s not that they’re leavPAGE 2

Messenger EDITOR Terry M. Smith

ing; it’s just that they’re not coming!” Bibby says there are connecting points between the Church and Canadians {Fragmented EDITORIAL Godsy, this is significant as we seek to help ASSISTANT Martha Kroeker others to follow Christ in life. THE MESSENGER is the Is an inactive or selective faith enough? publication of the Evangelical The Lord alone can sort out what He means Mennonite Conference. It is in the life of each person. Still, the uncom­ available to the general public. Its purpose is to inform, instruct fortable words of the apostle James cau­ and inspire: inform concerning tion us that if a claimed faith is without ac­ events and activities in the tions, it is actually dead (James 2:17). Mar­ denomination; instruct in god­ liness and victorious living; tin Luther, the reformer, reminds us that we inspire to earnestly contend for must do our own dying and our own be­ the faith. Letters, articles, photos and lieving. It is crucial, however, that the be­ poems are welcomed. Unpub­ lieving comes before the dying! lished material is not returned Compared with following Christ as Sav­ except by request. The views and opinions expressed by the iour and Lord, which corner of the quilt we writers are their own and do not keep warm under is so much less impor­ necessarily represent the posi­ tion of the Conference. tant. THE MESSENGER is pub­ In the late 1970s at Central Pentecostal Col­ lished twice a month (once a lege, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, a picture month in July and August) by the Board of Church Ministries of of James Eustace Purdie resided in the li­ the Evangelical Mennonite Con­ brary. Purdie was the institution’s first prin­ ference, 440 Main Street, Manitoba. cipal, and he has been called “the father of Steinbach, Subscriptions: $12.00 per Canadian Pentecostal Bible colleges and year (Manitoba residents add schools.” He was shown wearing a clerical 7% PST, total: $12.84). Sub­ scriptions are voluntary and op­ collar, fitting for a man who had been an tional to people within or outside of the EMC. Members and ad­ Anglican minister. herents pay through their When 1 entered the college, the academic church. dean was Dr. Ronald Kydd. Dr. Kydd was a THE MESSENGER is a talented, intelligent, caring professor who member of Meetinghouse and Church Press. taught courses on church history and Pen­ Canadian Second-class postage paid at tecostal distinctives. While my college ex­ Steinbach, Manitoba. Registration Number: 0591 perience was positive, I lost touch with him Mailing information: All after my studies ended at CPC. correspondence, including Recently Dr. Kydd, after a decade of teach­ undelivered copies, change of and new subscriptions, ing at Eastern Pentecostal Bible College in address should be addressed to: The Messenger Ontario and nearly forty years in the PAOC, RO. Box 1268 left the Pentecostal church to become an Steinbach, Manitoba Anglican minister. This surprised me. ROA 2A0 Is there a bit of reverse movement here? J. Phone: 204-326-6401 Eustace Purdie left the Anglican corner to Fax: 204-326-1613 serve within the Pentecostals; now. Dr. Kydd E-mail: emconf@mts.net has left the Pentecostals to serve within the Anglican corner. Whatever his reasons for moving, I am cover: The EMC convention confident that while Dr. Kydd has shifted date is approaching, his position under the quilt, he is still keep­ ing warm in Christ. Regardless of what part MESSENGER SCHEDULE 12 - June 23 of the quilt we prefer, following Christ as No. (copy due June 11) Saviour and Lord is what is most important! No.'^I 3”-”jury 21 Terry M. Smith (copy due July 9) THE MESSENGER

The Care and Feeding of Shepherds Richard F. Studebaker HOW DO YOU feel about being compared to a sheep? This might not seem like a compliment, yet it is an accurate comparison. A difference, however, between sheep and God’s peo­ ple is that sheep are not responsible for their shepherd. Sheep might provide the shepherd with wool or meat, but they hardly see this as their intention! Within the family of God, however, sheep also have responsibility for their shep­ herds. There is much in Scripture about shepherds caring for sheep. Jesus is the Good Shepherd (John 10:11), and human shepherds are to care for the flock (1 Peter 5:2). “Pastor” means “shepherd.” God’s Word also provides direction for sheep in caring for their shepherd. Here are principles 1 shared as an interim pastor, shortly before a permanent shepherd ar­ rived. They will help all sheep to care for their shepherd biblically. They do not stem from personal frustration; the congregations 1 have served have treated me and my fam­ ily with great love and support. Most of these principles apply equally to the shepherd’s spouse. Many apply to our relationships with all believers. Most are actions sheep expect from shepherds as well. For many, you might say, “We already do that!” For others, 1 hope you will think, “We should try that.” I pray that you will determine to be and do everything possible to help your pastor be what God calls him to be. Pray for your pastor Remember Paul’s request of the Ephesians: “Pray also for me, that whenever 1 open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which 1 am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as 1 should” (Eph. 6:1920). Pray for your pastor’s own spiritual life, for his marriage and family, and for wisdom and power for ministry. Tell him that you are praying, and ask how to pray more spe­ cifically. It’s said that the great British preacher, Charles Spurgeon, asked a visitor touring his church building if he would like to see the power plant. Then Spurgeon opened a door just enough to see two hundred or more people on their knees in prayer. Your pastor needs that kind of spiritual power base.

Welcome your pastor When Epaphroditus was returning to Philippi, Paul ex­ horted the Philippians to “Welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honour men like him...” (Philippians 2:29). Introduce yourself to your new pastor, several times if necessary. Remember that a new pastor has many names to recognize, while you have only the pastor’s family to learn. Listen to your pastor’s introduction; if he asks to be

MAY 26, 1999

called “Pastor Howard,” don’t greet him as “Howie” or “Reverend Smith.” Watch for opportunities to introduce your pastor to your “circle of influence”: friends, neighbours, relatives and co-workers This will expand his influence and open doors for ministry which would otherwise take him months to unlock. Introduce your community to your pastor. Share maps, brochures and information about the area. You can help your pastor to feel welcome quickly. Assume the best of your pastor Paul warned Timothy: “Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three wit­ nesses” (1 Timothy 5:19). Put more simply, don’t believe everything you hear, especially if it is negative. Practice thinking positively about your pastor. Look for the best possible explanation for any situation; hu­ man nature will quickly suggest the worst. Don’t inspect his ministry for faults; look for what your pastor does well. If you’re in the hospital for two days and the pastor never visits, don’t conclude he doesn’t care or simply for­ got. Pastors are human; they make mistakes. Assume he never knew you were hospitalized or that he had an una­ voidable schedule conflict. Give your pastor the same benefit of the doubt you prefer when you miss church for two straight Sundays. Invite your pastor to your home Peter encouraged his readers to “Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling” (1 Peter 4:9). Include your pastor in the “one another.” Your pastor will usually come to visit on his own; your invitation, however, makes his path to your door easier. You needn’t feel you must share a banquet or a meal; if you must offer something, a snack or coffee is fine. What’s important is fellowship and for the shepherd to know the sheep God calls him to tend. Pastors rarely manage to invite every church family to the parsonage. Someone is inevitably offended because their Invitation wasn’t early enough. On the other hand, most pastors can accept invitations they are given.

Guard your pastor’s time As Paul observed, “What 1 mean, brothers, is that the time is short” (1 Corinthians 7:29a). Pastors do not have any more time in their day than you have in yours. Don’t begin a call to your pastor by saying, “I’m sorry to bother you, but....” If the matter is important, it’s no bother; if it’s genuinely a bother, don’t bother! Pastors do not mind ministering to needs, but the timing should be ap­ propriate to the urgency. (3:00 a.m. is not the time to call the pastor to ask for your favourite hymn to be sung next Sunday!) PAGE 3

When contacting your pastor, distinguish among the urgent, important, informative, and the trivial. Whenever possible, make an appointment. Help your pastor safe­ guard a weekly day off, periodic vacations, and time away for prayer and planning. Encourage him not to feel guilty about leisure time. A retired pastor was asked what he planned to do with his free time. His response: “Work in my garden without feeling guilty!” A genuinely overworked pastor is unhealthy, ineffective, eind ultimately of little value to you.

Talk to your pastor Jesus said, “If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you” (Mat­ thew 18:15a). This principle could be at the top of the list. If obeyed, church relationships would improve dramati­ cally! If (rather, when) your pastor hurts you, don’t tell any­ one except God and the pastor. (This assumes “normal” hurts, not situations of abuse.) Talk to God in prayer, then talk to the pastor so he can make it right, and can avoid this action or inaction. Strive to be reconciled so you can continue to grow from his ministry. When he blesses you, say so — if only so he can do it again! Talk to him with a suggestion or about a need. The only class 1 flunked in seminary was “Mind-Reading 101,” and 1 have yet to meet a pastor who passed that course! Encourage your pastor In Acts 4:36, we read about “Joseph, a Levite from Cy­ prus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means Son of Encouragement).” What a great nickname! Where would the early church have been without the encour­ agement of Barnabas in introducing Paul to the church at Jerusalem or in restoring Mark to valuable ministry? It’s said it takes ten compliments to outweigh the dis­ couragement of one criticism. Pastors often experience this reality. They can be easily discouraged by criticism, but they can also be energized by encouragement! Say how his message helped you. Write a note of thanks or appreciation (to be enjoyed repeatedly). Share a word of spiritual victory; pastors love to rejoice with their sheep! Volunteer to help with a ministry (keep the smelling salts handy). Encourage your pastor with a sincere and appro­ priate “amen” during a sermon. Look for ways to ener­ gize your shepherd through encouragement. Brag about your pastor Paul wrote to the Romans, “First, 1 thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being re­ ported all over the world” (Romans 1:8). This is only one instance of Paul’s “bragging” about his brothers and sis­ ters in Christ. If shepherds can brag about their sheep (and most pastors 1 know love to do so), why shouldn’t sheep brag about their shepherd? Don’t talk to people outside the church about your pas­ tor’s weaknesses (all have some). Tell everyone about your pastor’s strengths (they all have these, too). Talk about your pastor the way you hope he talks about you. People often live up to what we say about them. Test this princiPAGE 4

pie on your pastor!

Court your pastor’s affection Paul could say, “It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since 1 have you in my heart.... God can testify how 1 long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:7-8). 1 am not encouraging women of the congregation to woo the pastor romantically. I am, however, suggesting that church people develop a deep and lasting spiritual love relationship with their pastor. What does it take to be the kind of flock your shepherd learns to love deeply? There is no ministry so powerful as that of a pastor who deeply loves his people in Christ! Support your pastor’s leadership Paul’s instructions to the Thessalonian church included: “Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other” (I Thessalonians 5:12-13). Strive to be a person who builds up your pastor as a leader, not one who tears him down. If you are praying for God to give him wisdom, live as though God is answer­ ing your prayer. Even when you must disagree with him, do so first privately and in a way which confirms his lead­ ership. A leader is ultimately never better than the quality of those who follow him.

Do your best for your pastor Even in Old Testament days, the wisdom of God said: “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might...” (Ecclesiastes 9:10a). God’s people are expected to give their best for our King, His Kingdom and His Church. If we do our best for our shepherd, we will help him to do his best for the King! A congregation committed to doing their best as believers will multiply a pastor’s strength and maximize his effec­ tiveness in ministry

Send your pastor to Africa Send your pastor to wherever your church is involved in missions. In Mark’s account of the Great Commission, Jesus tells his disciples, “Go into all the word and preach the good news to all creation” (Mark 16:15). If you share a strong commitment to foreign missions and want to have a missions-minded congregation, you need to continually develop a missions-minded pastor. To get a pastor excited about missions, send him and his spouse, at church expense, to a mission field. Your pastor will never be the same, and neither will you! This could be on a work team or a volunteer service assign­ ment. It will be a great investment of time and money. Encourage other people from your church to go along; this builds lasting bonds between shepherd and sheep. The cycle of love in ministry is this: for sheep to be at their best, they need a shepherd doing his best; for a shep­ herd to be his best, he needs sheep doing their best as well. Your pastor is God’s gift to your congregation and an THE MESSENGER

outstanding ministry resource. Ask yourself, “If everyone in my church supported my pastor exactly as 1 do, would he be effective in the Lord’s ministry?” Take an active role in the care and feeding of your shepherd, and watch what God does among his sheep!

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.

Caring For My Shepherd I will pray for my pastor. I will welcome my pastor. I will assume the best of my pastor. I will invite my pastor to my home. I will guard my pastor’s time. 1 will talk to my pastor. I will encourage my pastor. I will brag about my pastor. 1 will court my pastor’s spiritual affection. I will support my pastor’s leadership. I will do my best for my pastor. I will send my pastor to Africa (?).

Richard F. Studebaker served as interim pastor of the Nappanee (Indiana) Brethren in Christ Church in 1993-94, and later served as pastor of the Sunnyfield Missionary Church in Goshen, Indiana. This article was published, slightly longer, in the October 1995 issue of the Evangelical Visitor and is reprinted with permission of the magazine.

I Watch Him, and Hoe! Ben B. Dueck

IN SPRING, with the snow vanishing, my winter-hibernating limbs come awake with an eager vengeance. Can it be? It seems as if the world switches to a fast-forward gear as well. Now and then a squirrel darts out of our highest blue spruce, scurrying nimbly across the thirty feet of hydro wire to another tree, scolding, Hey, come alive. Tree! to a buddy. For me and my gardening cronies, eager trips to the mail are rewarded by the appearance in March of seed catalogues. Every page witnesses to God’s marvellous love in previous years — fat juicy tomatoes, crisp lettuce, artichokes, unbelievable on­ ions, and even watermelons pour from the mouth-watering cornucopia. Rhododendrons, petunias, gladiolus and hundreds of rare flow­ ers wave colourfully as the catalogue pages are flipped. What’s this? No, it can’t be! Yet it says plainly: “Potatoes which have an enzyme growing in their leaves that takes care of the Colorado potato beetle; no poison sprays needed. Guaranteed!” Where is that order blank? Troy Tiller, old veteran, do you feel the new life stirring in your trusty steel frame? How carefully you will pulverize that soil! Make straight rows with that hoe, Ben, and cover these tiny seeds. The Lord will send the rain; we hardly ever have a crop fail­ ure. Thank the Giver of Life for the metamorphosis of each tiny seed into a vigorous, upward-thrusting entity. For several selfish moments, I thought this was my garden — not so! Athe­ ists, think again! My Master-Head-Gardener is at work, creating thousands of miracles. I watch Him, and hoe.

SEetteftg THE REAL QUESTION I would like to comment on two state­ ments from articles on Kosovo which have appeared in The Messenger this past month. The first was an editorial, “Kosovo and Khristos,” which used this illustration: “If the Good Samaritan had ridden a faster donkey and come upon the robbers hurt­ ing the traveller, what would he have done?” It is applied to Kosovo and the bombing campaign, but I would like to look at the real question: Would the Samaritan have used physical force to defend the travel­ ler? I think the answer is obvious. If he would not have defended the traveller, he would have shown a total lack of love and mercy by simply standing by. Romans 12:18 says, 'df it be possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (emphasis mine). This implies that it will not always be possible to live at peace, especially in the case of thieves and murderers. Let’s not overlook the first part of this verse in an idealistic approach to peacemaking. The second statement comes from “War and Pacifism on Trial in Kosovo.” The writer states that he withholds money from his federal taxes every year because he does not believe in paying for war. This is a care­ less and disturbing idea. Numerous other MAY 26, 1999

reasons could be found for withholding tax money. Doesn’t the Government also use our tax dollars to support abortion clin­ ics and gay rights, among other immoral things? When Jesus was confronted with the tax issue, he replied, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s....’’ (Matthew 22:21a). 1 am sure Jesus was well aware of the Roman gov­ ernment’s military system and endorse­ ment of war when he made this reply. This verse applies to us as well, whether or not we agree with everything our government is doing. Let’s not take pacifism to the ex­ treme. Melanie J. Penner Blumenort, Man.

HOW MANY ARE NEEDED? Historian Leslie Plett of Calgary, Alta., has compiled a remarkable, informative book on the Abraham L. Plett family (1859-1934), but we need to know how many copies to print. On May 7, 1999, members of eight tribes gathered in Blumenort, Man., to put to­ gether the final details before printing, under the leadership of Walter Plett of Landmark, Man. Of concern was that everyone would have an opportunity to order this book (the rea­ son for this letter), so please respond im­ mediately to one of the following: Harold

Plett, Box 41, R.R.1, Landmark, Man. (204355-4995); Leslie Plett, 923 Midridge Dr. SE, Calgary, Alta. T2X 1H5 (403-254-2901); Ben P. Plett, Box 27, Blumenort, Man. ROA OCO (204-326-9307). The Abraham L. Plett family included twelve children. By now there is a host of almost six thousand descendants, scat­ tered to many parts of the world. Most of them are Christians. This unusual book of 738 pages (6" by 9”) has biographies, a detailed index, poems, stories, games and 200 photos. It sells for $39 (tax included) plus shipping. It should be ready for the Abraham L. Plett reunion at the Prairie Rose EMC on August 15,1999. This is so exciting 1 must let readers know about it. Thank you for this opportunity. Harold Plett Landmark, Man.

Letters to the Editor Letters for publication, commenting on issues raised in The Messenger, are welcomed. Their tone should be charitable, dealing with subjects rather than individuals. Letters may be edit­ ed for length, style and charity.

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Betty Koop La Crete, Alberta

KAREN I DROVE UP TO a beautiful log house. It blended comfortably into its snow-covered setting, protectively sheltered by aspen and spruce. Karen’s directions had been easy to follow. Karen is a full-time mother and home­ maker with three lively children. 1 had come to interview her on the trauma of moving and how she had coped with it. She and her doctor husband had moved from South Africa to Canada shortly after their marriage. Their first home was in Sas­ katchewan, but now they had lived in High Level, Alberta, for about six years. We had met briefly before, when 1 met her and her husband at a wedding in our church. Their graciousness reminded me of many people we had met in South Af­ rica. Then 1 realized they were transplanted to our great Canadian northland! “So,” 1 asked, as we sipped tea, “how do you cope with moving so far from family and friends — other than crying a lot?” She smiled as she told of their arrival in

High Level. They had a new baby, the temperature was -35, their accommo­ dations were almost bare of furniture, and her husband seemed to be busy day and night. The community needed him, but she also needed him at home. The change from a warm climate, with her family’s huge, year-round flower farm, to ice and snow and flowers only in summer, was dramatic and daunting. Karen also spoke of those who wel­ comed them, brought furniture, and tried to make them feel at home. They made new friends, but High Level is a very transient town, and even new friends moved away. The church fellowship filled a need. The day 1 vis­ ited, Karen was hosting a women’s Bi­ ble study. She mentioned that she had found it helpful to get involved in the commu­ nity. Volunteer work was rewarding, and craft classes provided an outlet for creativity and for making new friends. Just because you move away, you don’t have to lose touch with your fam­ ily. “Phoning helps,” Karen said. She was grateful to have a brother and his wife next door. Still, being far from parents, who have more needs as they grow older, is difficult. From my experience, Karen’s open sharing, and from visiting newcomers in town, there seems to be a common de­

nominator in adjusting: grieving for the place you left. Regardless of a friendly welcome, well-meaning new neighbours, and a lovely new house, there is a period of grief for who and what was left be­ hind. If we realize this, perhaps we can cope more easily. Then, as Karen mentioned, getting in­ volved with the new community, espe­ cially a church, helps in adjustment. Slowly we begin to see the good around us and dwell less on what we left behind. Then there comes a day when we expe­ rience a revelation: “1 really like it here!” With our population being more tran­ sient, we need to be open and ready to welcome newcomers. First visitors are very special and long remembered, as I know from our experience. This is a min­ istry in which women could specialize. Often the woman is home alone while her husband is at his job, finding new chal­ lenges and acquaintances. It’s harder for the homemaker to meet new people, especially if she does not work outside the home. As we visit and try to ease someone’s loneliness, let’s not be impatient if the newcomer needs a bit of time to grieve, to separate herself from what is past. If you are patient, she may become a won­ derful friend, and both your life and hers will be enriched.

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A DREAM COME TRUE When the Lord called me to missions at a young age, 1 imagined that He would send me to a place in the wild. My experience has been quite different. It was, however, like a dream come true this Easter when we were invited to take a missions trip with our young people. The trip’s purpose was to expose our young people to missions and give them the experience of sharing their wealth with the poor. The sixteen of us drove six hours into the mountains and arrived at a mission centre. A newlywed missionary couple was living there. We unloaded our baggage and be­ came acquainted with our hosts and sur­ roundings. Without electricity and running water there would be no baths for four days. Our day’s menu consisted of burritos for breakfast, lunch and supper. After learning two songs in Tarahumara, a local language, we were ready to retire for the night. In the morning we began eating the leftover burritos, which we later noticed were spoiled. Lord, please don't let anyone get sick. It was time to leave for the local village. PAGES

At Easter young people travelled to a mountain community to learn howz to share the Good News of Christ. They met adults — and children.

and after forty-five minutes we got to our destination. It was windy, raining and cold. The missionaries dropped us off and left in search of butane gas, which they needed to do their cooking. We felt unsure of what to do, so we

waited in the sawmill, which provided some shelter from the rain. Men came to light a fire for us. We soon realized it would be a long wait, so we started singing. Some of us ventured out and visited in homes. A few people spoke Spanish, and we chatTHE MESSENGER

ted with them. When the missionaries returned, we started the first service. At 7:30 the first meal was served. A raw cow leg was brought and each person cut off a piece of meat and fried it in a large pan of oil. After the meal the next service began, which was attended by about sixty people. Many of the local people shared and prayed. It was a moving experience to see them share with such reverence and love for their Lord. Many had walked for up to six hours in the wind and rain to be at this special Easter celebration. There was no worship team to attract crowds with their specif music. They came to hear the Word of God. We spent the night with the missionaries, while other people stayed in the sawmill waiting for us to re­ turn the next morning. The following day we arrived at 8:00 a.m. The young people were beginning to real­ ize the price being paid to make these days special for us and for them. There were three services and a small children’s session that day. Our interpreter was ready to translate all we said into the two dia­ lects represented there. The young people played volleyball, and the women prepared food during free periods. 1 was amazed at how quickly the women shared of problems they were fac­ ing. We ended the day with a supper of soup, made from the leg bone, cooked in water without salt for many hours. With so much tallow in the soup, some of the young people found it difficult to eat, but no one complained. We distributed among the people three sacks of beans we had brought. We had come to give, but each one of us felt we had received much more than we had given. We had grown to love these brothers and sisters who displayed a deep devotion to the Lord in spite of never having read His Word in their language. We became aware of great needs right around us here in the state of Chihuahua. We were touched. We want more now to help these dear peo­ ple. How about you? Peter and Louise Hiebert

Peter and Louise Hiebert (Steinbach EFC) and their three children, Kevin, Rochelle and Justin, live in Chihuahua City, Mexico, where Peter and Louise serve as church planters.

MAY 26. 1999

PARAGUAY USE ME, LORD! As / work in the bookstore today. Lord, show me how I can best serve you; use me however you want to, regardless ofthe situ­ ation. I’m in the bookstore tending to custom­ ers’ needs and doing odd jobs that are al­ ways part of managing and operating a book­ store. I’ve been here all morning and part of the afternoon, and nothing seems out of the ordinary. Then, two ladies come in. They speak Guarani, and 1 have to concentrate to understand what they’re saying. These women had been at the Mennonite hospital (leprosy station), and somebody had referred them to our bookstore for spir­ itual help. One of them had heard on the radio that they could get help at the book­ store. I tell them that 1 don’t know Guarani very well, but that doesn’t intimidate them. They want prayer for one of them who has not recovered from an accident a few months earlier. As 1 ask them to sit down, 1 pray silently for wisdom and the right words. 1 feel 1 can not just pray with them, 1 need

Ema Plett (Treesbank) works at the Christian bookstore in Caaguazu, Paraguay. Currently she is in Canada on furlough. CONFERENCE YOUTH MINISTER APPOINTED The Board of Church Ministries and the Board of Missions are pleased to an­ nounce the appointment of Gerald Reimer as Conference Youth Minister as of June 1, 1999. Gerald Reimer is a member of the Pleasant Valley EMC. He and his wife, Sandy, live in Rosenort, Man. Gerald was an EMC missionary in Mexico (1992-96) with a focus on youth ministry. In this new position, Gerald will be re­ sponsible to minister to the youth and youth leaders of the Conference on be­ half of the two boards. He will report to the General Secretary of the Confer­ ence.

to share the plan of salvation. 1 get the little booklet “How to find peace with God” (in Spanish) and start sharing the gospel. 1 real­ ize this is the special situation God is send­ ing my way this day. These women, Ignacia and Luciana, are sisters. They cannot read, so 1 read Bible verses and, with God’s help, explain the message of salvation in Guarani. The two sisters know about prayer, but seem not to have received Christ as their Saviour. They want what is best — and what is better than knowing Christ as their Saviour! They prayer the prayer of salvation. 1 ex­ plain to them that if we receive Christ as our Saviour, He comes to stay in our lives; He does not leave us. After the prayer 1 ask them, “Where is Jesus?” Ignacia immedi­ ately replies, “He is in my heart.” Luciana, the one needing prayer for her health, lives close to Caaguazu — only three blocks from the school where Lucy, Pastor Agripino’s wife, teaches. When 1 tell Luciana that, she says she can go to school and pray with Lucy at recess time. Ignacia lives further away but is close to one of our rural churches. 1 write down details to pass on to Pastor Agripino, especially about Luciana. Just then who shows up but Pastor Agripino! (1 thought he had gone to Asuncion.) Now he can meet Ignacia and Luciana. Luciana shares her health needs with him and speaks of her home life. Pastor Agripino suggests that he can visit her at her home. A couple of days later, at prayer meeting, 1 ask Lucy whether Luciana has come to the school. She had, and Lucy had the op­ portunity to help her. Pray for Luciana’s and Ignacia’s spiritual growth, and for others who come to the bookstore for spiritual help. Pray also for the bookstore staff, that we’ll be sensitive to the customers’ needs and have the wis­ dom of God to help them effectively. Our aim continues to be to help people find peace with God and grow in their Christian walk. Ema Plett

Sandy and Gerald Reimer

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PSYCHED TO BUILD! MacGregor, Man.: Plans are underway for a new church building. The congrega­ tion has reached the point where it seems obvious another building is needed. Tim Sawatzky, Dave Sawatzky, Ken Wright and Harold Giesbrecht (and Ed Giesbrecht in Dave’s absence) have been busy with meetings, phone calls, building plans and details. The building committee possesses a con­ tagious enthusiasm which has quickly spread through the congregation; a number of groups have gone to the Car­ man Pentecostal Church to see what our completed building might look like. We are tmsting God to bring in those who do not know Him personally. Bill McCaskill spoke to nine couples at the Adult Winter Retreat, January 22-24. The theme was “Encouragement.” Bill shared “The Encouragement Equation,” based on Romans 15:1-13. Camp Arnes was an ideal location to “hang around” for the weekend. While some tried cross­ country skiing for the first time, others brought snowmobiles and enjoyed the view from the lake. Everyone enjoyed the swimming, games, meals and the com­ pany.

We felt a little outnumbered by the 200 Boy Scouts who shared the grounds with us. We were very impressed with how organized they were, and they amused us with their ice fishing. We were happy to have our own sleeping quarters and din­ ing area apart from them. The youth served a spaghetti lunch on February 14 to raise funds for the upcoming Abundant Springs weekend. The food was excellent, and the service and decorations were impressive! The Willing Helpers (women) planned a community soup-and-pie night at the MacGregor Hall on March 5. About 200 hungry people enjoyed good summer borscht, chicken noodle soup, cabbage borscht and pie. The money raised is to go to missions and for supplies in our new kitchen. “Promises Worth Keeping” was the theme of our 50-Day Spiritual Adventure this year. The topic for Sunday, March 14, was “Support the Ministry of My Church and Pastor.” Ron and Charlene Sawatzky posed as cheerleaders and presented a humourous skit which clearly impressed on us the importance of supporting the work of the church. Bill McCaskill spoke, encouraging us to do the same.

Bill McCaskill spoke at the Adult Winter Retreat.

Our congregation is blessed to have Jerry and Phyllis as our pastoral couple. We ap­ preciate their caring nature and their loy­ alty to the church and people, and we enjoy their humour. May we continue to be a church that “lives what we say we be­ lieve.” Mary K. Giesbrecht

FCCF BECOMES CHARTER MEMBER Fish Creek (Calgary, Alta.): March 14 was a monumental day in the life of our church — a day of celebration as we be­ :i : h‘ came a charter member of the EMC. Our special guest was Harvey Plett, Conference moderator, and we appreciate !Si his blessing on our congrega­ iW r ., tion. Our name, as explained by 1 our pastor, Conroy Koop, stands for the following: Fish Creek ', the name of the beau­ tiful, natural park in our com­ 11 munity; Christian', reflects our desire to model Christ in our community; Fellowship: our aim is to encourage, pray for, support and enjoy each oth­ er’s company as a congrega­ tion. We are praising the Lord for The seventeen members of Fish Creek Fellowship are (back) Les Martens, Jan Martens, Sheila how He has brought us thus Koop, Pastor Conroy Koop, (middle) Colette Lyons, Anne Boehlig, Gary Kornelsen, Sharon far and anticipate more of His Kornelsen, Virginia Janzen, Arlene Bergen, Janette Fehr, (front) Allan Lyons, Henry Boehlig, Frank “showers of blessing” as we Enns, Abe Janzen, Rob Bergen and Dan Fehr. serve Him. Please pray for us as we search for a muchneeded larger facility. Anne Boehlig

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THE MESSENGER

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PARENTING SEMINAR HOSTED Stony Brook (Steinbach, Man.): The past few months at Stony Brook Fellowship have been very exciting! January 22-24 we hosted a Parenting Seminar, with Pastor Al Friesen of St. Vital EMC as speaker. Twenty-three families and two single adults attended. Only eight of these families were from our church. We worked together and provided babysitting, children’s programs and snacks; we did have to hire some outside help. As a result of this seminar, several

WORKING AS CHRISTIANS Pelly, Sask.: Recent events included an eightieth birthday celebration for Stella Andmsiak on March 11, put on by her chil­ dren and grandchildren; the drama, “Easter — a New Beginning,” performed by our young people, here and at the Kamsack Evangelical Free Church; and the wedding of Darrell and Kelsie Abrahamson. The gospel of salvation was presented by Fester the Tramp Clown (Peter Mieran of Three Hills, Alta.) at the Pelly Commu­ nity Hall on March 20. Ed Friesen, from the Mennonite Foun­ dation of Canada, spoke at the deeper life services in April. Using various types of footwear to illustrate his messages, he emphasized how we can be Christians in our work. He spoke to a large group of men on Saturday morning at a pancake breakfast. Our pastor, Kenton Penner, had a mes­ sage series on the seven words of Jesus on the cross. The series ended with a com­ munion service on Easter Sunday. A rumpus room was constructed in the manse basement, serving as a warm place for children to play as the Moms’ Group, for mothers of preschool children, meets upstairs. Men gave their time and women provided the financial resources. Phyllis Dyck

J Kelsie and Darrell Abrahamson were honoured at a wedding reception at the Pelly church on April 3.

MAY 26, 1999

families have begun attending our church. With the increase in the number of fami­ lies, our Sunday school program has also increased. We began in fall with one adult class and one children’s class. We now have three children’s classes, an adult class and a new believers’ class. Each time we needed more personnel for these classes, someone was ready to serve. This is truly exciting! On February 16 we had the privilege of serving others by washing dishes at the Grace Haven Pregnancy Crisis Centre ban-

quet. Little did we know as we enjoyed our meal and the program that a member of our congregation was serving us by qui­ etly washing many loads of dishes. We saw a tme servant’s heart that night! A sad first for our church was the death of one of our attenders, Peter Penner. Please continue to pray for his wife, Martha, and their children. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today... ” (Hebrews 3:13). We want to continue to do this. Heidi Friesen

An Easter drama was presented to a full church on April 1. The plot centred around a teenage girl who realizes she could be missed in the Rapture and gives her heart to the Lord. The characters were played by Twyla Hamm, Chad Abrahamson, Trish Shingoose, Cameron Dyck and Shannon Dyck. Lucille Penner directed the play, with assistance from Kelvin Dyck, Donald Hamm and Connie Rudachyk.

GOD IS AT WORK! Fort Frances, Ont.: Thank you, Lord, for simple things that brighten every day, Like sunshine in the morning and daffodils in May. — Clay Harrison God, through His Holy Spirit, has been at work in our church these past six months. We have grown in numbers as more peo­ ple come through our door. Pastor Jeff Plett and his wife, Laural Ann, and their four children have been busy attending to church matters, and we praise the Lord for sending them to us to help in God’s work. God has blessed us and given us the abili­ ties to provide Bible studies, a youth group, baptismal/membership classes and outreach activities to our congregation and community. We have a Bible study at the church, led by Jeff and Laural Ann, and a second one on Wednesday in a member’s home. The women of the church gather occa­ sionally for social events. Two recent events were playing volleyball and a fa­ vourite book exchange at Wanda Barker’s

home. The youth group, led by Ben and Norma Rempel, has been doing well, with ten to thirty young people meeting a few times each month to study the Bible, go bowl­ ing, play volleyball, and for other activi­ ties. Thank you to Ben and Norma for their work and for letting God use them in this way. Some of the young people attended Abundant Springs in Caronport, Sask., May 21-24. My husband passed away on December 3, and 1 have been busy sorting my life anew, with God’s help. God has been good to me, blessing me in so many ways since this sadness came into my life. 1 thank the church family and other Christians who have been praying for me and my family and have been so supportive. This is my commandment, that ye love one another as I have loved you (John 5:12). Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto thy own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your path (Proverbs 3:5,6) Evelyn Hicks PAGE 9

TELLING WHAT HAPPENED Calgary, Alta.: A member of our congre­ gation recently shared how he had wit­ nessed a car-pedestrian accident. When the police arrived at the scene, Wes men­ tioned that he was a witness. The police­ man turned to him and asked, “Okay, what happened?” Yes, being a witness is quite simple; all one has to do is tell what hap­ pened. In the months of January and February several people in our church witnessed to their faith in preparation for baptism or church transfers. Following are their “wit­ ness statements” in short form: Noella (Janzen) Koop: During a time of loneliness and difficulty, 1 discovered that true joy and peace come only from God. Genevieve Baxter: 1 accepted Christ as an adult. Now my longing is to see my adult children experience the new life 1 am enjoying. Elaine Teichroeb: 1 quit going to church as a pre-teen, but after getting married and having two children, 1 realized that a growing relationship with Christ is what 1 really wanted. Martha Ras-. 1 rededicated my life to Christ when we were expecting our first child. Sometimes it is hard to let God have control, but obedience to Christ brings peace. Marilyn Kroeker. 1 accepted Christ as a young child. Through my involvement with a Nazarene church, 1 experienced a lot of growth in my walk with God, and now 1 am striving to be a witness at my work at Costco. Kathryn Janzen-. God stretches us be-

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yond brokenness to the possibilities of what we can be­ come. 1 look forward to being accountable to this church family. Malcolm Koop-.

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lived a selfish life­ style as a teen. 1 gave my life to God several years ago but made the mistake of not getting involved with other Christians. I’m glad that 1 met Noella and am looking for­ The Calgary church had the joy of accepting sixteen members recently. Eleven of them are shown here. Front: Noella Koop, ward to serving God Genevieve Baxter, Elaine Teichroeb, Martha Ras, Marilyn Kroeker, together with her. Kathryn Janzen. Back: Malcolm Koop, Howard Baxter, Dennis Howard Baxter: 1 Teichroeb, Terry Kroeker, Abe Janzen. came to know the Lord through my wife. A former pastor school God revealed Himself to me and helped me grow in my understanding of wrapped me in His love. Christ. Christ has made our home life bet­ Jan Morgan-. 1 knew Christ as a child, but ter, and we really want to belong to this He was more like a distant friend to run to church family. only in times of trouble. Recently 1 discov­ Dennis Teichroeb: 1 moved away from ered that faith in Christ is much more than my family as a troubled teen. After mar­ just a list of don’ts, it is a living relationship riage and the birth of our two children, 1 with the awesome God. 1 hope to touch attended church for the sake of the chil­ others by witnessing with my whole life. dren. 1 slowly realized that 1 needed to Dan Peters-. As a young person 1 was pri­ give God total control of my life. marily interested in what 1 could get, not Terry Kroeker. God has blessed me in what 1 could give. The world satisfies for a amazing ways, and 1 see how he showers bit, but Christ satisfies wholly. me with his grace daily. Trevor Bueckert: 1 realized that until Abe Janzen-. My life has been a growing recently 1 had been willing to sacrifice consciousness of my relationship with everything for a hockey puck, but now I God. The idea that my mind is to be trans­ want to give my life totally to Christ. formed is fascinating and exciting to me. Jon Friesen: 1 thank my parents for con­ A few weeks later we heard five more tinually praying for me through my tough testimonies as five teen years. 1 realized that my faith de­ young adults were manded understanding, so 1 enrolled at baptized. Briercrest Bible College. During my time Cheyanne Friesen: 1 there 1 decided to put my trust in God and found that the longer become accountable to Him. 1 tried to do things on So how about you? If someone found out my own, the more that you were a Christian and came up and insecure and bitter 1 asked, “What happened?” how would you became. At Bible witness to your relationship with Christ?

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You are invited to participate in

The 5th Annual EMC Golf Classic at the

Steinbach Fly-in Golf Course June 10,1999 Five young people followed the Lord in baptism at the Calgary church. Front: Cheyanne Friesen, Jan Morgan. Back: Dan Peters, Trevor Bueckert, Jon Friesen.

PAGE 10

Rain or Shine Phone 204-255-8062

THE MESSENGER

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OUR VISION STATEMENT Winnipeg, Man. (Fort Garry): About a year ago we hammered out a vision statement in order to focus on our tasks as one of the outposts of the Kingdom: We are a community of believers seeking to follow the teachings and example of Christ in all of life. We gather to worship God, to pray, to study the Bible, and to en­ courage one another to faithfulness. We strive to care for the spiritual, physical, emo­ tional, and intellectual well-being of all whose lives we touch. By our verbal witness and the example of our lives, we call people to faith in Christ and to mature discipleship. We are actively engaged in bringing justice and peace to our local world community in the name of Christ. We value the strength and richness

that diversity brings to our church. You wouldn’t believe how much work and discussion goes into the making of these statements. The most challenging bit was the last sentence. How do you strike a balance between broad acceptance and “anything goes”? For the past few months The Messenger has served as the guide for discussion in one of our adult Sunday school classes. Thanks to the writers for the fine lead arti­ cles that have given us much food for dis­ cussion. Dr. Terry Tiessen was there one Sunday to extend his discussion on postmodernism and the church, which was much appreciated. Terry Smith came out to share with us what it’s like to be editor and how he sees his task. Thank you, Terry.

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Glen and Betty Klassen

DUECK - to Myron and Marjorie Dueck of Shawnigan Lake, B.C., a son, Ryan Andrew, on December 13, 1998. PENNER - to Rick and Doreen Penner of Steinbach, Man., a son, Regan Pierce, on January 20, 1999. DYCK - to Allan and Hilda Dyck of Austin, Man., a daughter, Arianna Nicole, on April 27, 1999. PLETT - to Milton and Valerie Plett of Arborg, Man., a son, Jonathan Milton, on May 2, 1999. HOWARD - to Robert and Kim (Andrusiak) Howard of Norquay, Sask., a daughter, Andriana Shannon, on April 1, 1999. ABRAHAMSON - to Rod and Abigail Abrahamson of Red Deer, Alta., twin sons, Myles Blade and Colten Drake, on January 20, 1999. BERG - to John and Agatha Berg of Mitchell, Man., a daughter, Kimberly Cassandra, on March 30, 1999. QUIRING - to Ken and Yolanda Quiring of Elkhart, Ind., a daughter, Adriana Sophia, on May 14, 1999.

1 preparing 11 A parent/child dedication service was a highlight for the Fort Garry EMC. The parents and children who took part were Lorraine and Randy Plett with Kathryn, Cheryl and Ernie Waldner with Kaelee, Nancy and Stuart McTavish with Andrew, David and Tammy Kruse with Janae and Emily, David and Jackie Hoehne with Bronwyn, Randy and Lisa Farmer with Abbey.

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Steinbach Bible College An unusual event in the Fort Garry church was the shower for nine brides: Jody Braun, Kathy Rieder, Laurie Dueck, Michelle Friesen, Rebecca Brandt, Christine Penner, Heather Peters, Leanne Braun and Emily Penner.

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EMC KID5’ corner NAME THESE MISSIONARIES 1. Their children are Ashlyn, Alyssa, Austin and Dylan. Who are the parents, and in what country do they serve? (check June 1993 Prayer Calendar)

□.Hailey lives in Winnipeg, where her parents, Chris and Rebecca, serve at Inner City Youth Alive. What is Hailey’s lost name? (April 1999 Prayer Calendar) 3. I Corinthians 13 ends with “faith, hope and charity." Years ago a missionary couple named three daughters Faith, Hope and Charity. What did they name their fourth daughter? (ask your parents) U. Where is Burkina Faso? Can you name one couple who has served there and is going back? (June 1999 Prayer Calendar)

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Children 6-12 years old are welcome to send their answers to “Kids’ Quiz" at the Conference Office. Those who answer correctly all four questions will go into a draw for a prize. The winner will be announced in the July 21st issue. Contest deadline: July 5. Editor's note: A children's feature, prompted by the Steinbach EMC kids, will go in at least monthly. MAY 26, 1999

Box 1420 • Steinbach, MB • ROA 2A0 204-326-6451 • 1-800-230-8478 pr@sbcollege.mb.ca • www.sbcollege.mb.ca STUDYING AT SBC THIS FALL? The Board of Church Ministries has a limited Student Assistance Program for EMCers in full-time attendance at Steinbach Bible College. During the past academic year the amounts awarded were from $100 to $300 per student per semester. The amounts can vary, de­ pending, in part, on the number of ap­ plicants and their needs. Application forms are available at SBC or the Conference office. They are con­ sidered in September and in January. Please plan six weeks lead time for processing. For further information, contact Terry Smith, Executive Secre­ tary. Board of Church Ministries PAGE 11

Edwin Friesen Stewardship Consultant

erosity can flow through you. Lessons 1-3 are grouped under the theme “God’s Good News.” They focus on the meaning of the good news we have in Christ, the contentment Christians can experience when they keep their eyes focused on eternal values, and the joy that

In­ STUDY NOW AVAILABLE A NINE-LESSON study series on steward­ ship is now available for use by Sunday school classes and other study groups. Published as Managing God’s Good Gifts, and written by Mennonite Foundation of Canada staff, the material challenges peo­ ple to consider all possessions as gifts from God, gifts to be managed for Kingdom purposes. Readers are encouraged to con­ sider themselves managers, not owners, of time, talents, creation and material pos­ sessions. The words of 1 Peter 4:10 are foundational: God has given gifts to each of you from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Manage them well so that God’s gen-

comes to those who reflect God’s exam­ ple of generosity in living and loving. Lessons 4-9 are entitled “Responding to God’s Good News.” The discussion is di­ rected to the responsible use of money,

Edwin Friesen is a stewardship consultant serving, in part, the EMC and SBC constitu­ ency. He is available to meet with groups or individuals to discuss will/estate plan­ ning, family finances, and charitable giv­ ing. He can be contacted at 204-488-1985.

Soon after, a prolonged cold spell destroyed the grasshoppers and the settlers were saved. Although the faith of the pioneers was sometimes severely tested, especially in the first year when grasshoppers consumed their crops, they were steadfast in their faith. As one related, they likened the emigra­ tion to the call of Abram in Genesis 12:1, “That was the command of the Lord to Abram and also applies to our fathers and grandfathers in Russia....” * WHEN LAND was becoming scarce in the established settlements in southern Manitoba, Brittensteppe (British plain) was one of the first ventures in 1917-1920. Located between Winnipeg and Steinbach, the area today is better known as Prairie Rose. How did it get its name? The first Dutch-German (DG) Mennonite village of western Canada, Gruenfeld (green field), was settled in 1874. Soon after this came Blumenort (place of flowers) and Steinbach (stony creek). These villages were thirty to forty miles southeast of Winnipeg and were given German names. Are you still wondering about the name Prairie Rose? The June 4,1919, issue of the Steinbach Post reports on a meeting where some farmers in the R.M. of Tache decided to name their settlement Prairie

Rose. Historian Peter A. Plett says Henry R. Reimer, a schoolteacher and church leader among the settlers, was concerned that the name should be suitable and appro­ priate in both German and English, so they agreed on the name Prairie Rose. (Rose is spelled the same in both languages.) This suggestion is farsighted and intriguing, nearly a mission vision of a community to which those of other languages would be attracted. It was, in fact, from this area that the first known EMC missionary, Susan Plett (1911-1956), went out. She went to Brazil in 1942 under New Tribes Mission and passed away on the field. With 1999 seeming to be the eightieth anniversary of the choosing of the name Prairie Rose, it might be in order to make this the year of making an area history book. How about it? *** AMONG THE hardships that DG pioneers had to face was that some of the oxen they purchased in Winnipeg knew only English commands. My great-grandfather, Gerhard Schellenberg, bought such a team of oxen. The commands were strange to Mr. Schellenberg, so he wrote them down in his notebook, whoa and giddap. On the way home the tired oxen saw a waterhole by the side of the road and branched off the main road toward it. The driver could not stop the team because he had forgotten the words. By the time he found his notebook the oxen were deep in soft mud. It took a lot of effort to get them back on the road again. (Some material was taken from “Historical Sketches of Steinbach, ” The Carillon, Steinbach, Manitoba.)

, fro*** tJte Dave SchvUciibcr^ Steinbach, MB.

A WOMAN OF GREAT FAITH DO YOU KNOW the story of how an elderly grandmother of great faith averted a move shortly after the East Reserve settlement? In 1875, a year after the EMC’s arrival, the first crops of pioneer settlers fell to hordes of grasshoppers — a severe trial. Without a loan from the government and Ontario Mennonites, it would have been difficult to survive. The next year, 1876, after the grain was starting to grow, hordes of grasshoppers again appeared. The settlers lost their cour­ age. One warm Sunday afternoon the Reimer clan, including the grandparents, assembled at a home in Steinbach. They were consid­ ering leaving Manitoba, where only starva­ tion stared them in the face. Most favoured moving to Mountain Lake, Minnesota. The grandmother rose slowly to her feet, and pleaded tearfully with her sons and sons-in-law to wait another year. She re­ called how reluctantly she had left her cozy home and how, before she and her family had left for the unknown land, God, who had guided her forefathers in their search for a home, had given her a clear vision, telling her to trust Him completely. She felt that the plague was only temporary, to test their faith. That Sunday it was decided that the grandmother’s pleadings should be obeyed. PAGE 12

appropriate accumulation of material goods, wise estate planning, use of per­ sonal skills, abilities and time in kingdom work and caring for God’s creation. Short, professionally produced video dis­ cussion starters accompany the 96-page lesson book. The videotape (eight seg­ ments, all on one tape) and one lesson book may be borrowed from the Confer­ ence Office or purchased from any MFC office for $35. Additional lesson books are $3 each. MFC staff are prepared to participate in group sessions on any of the lesson topics. The authors hope these lessons and the accompanying videos will prompt healthy discussions about what it means to be re­ sponsible managers of God’s good gifts.

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DR. VERN HEIDEBRECHT IS CONVENTION SPEAKER Dr. Vern Hiedebrecht of Abbotsford, B.C., will speak on “The Power of Purpose in a Healthy Church” at the 49th EMC Conven­ tion, held this year at Calvary Temple, Win­ nipeg, Manitoba. According to information supplied, Dr. Vern Heidebrecht is senior pastor at Northview Community Church, a Mennonite Brethren congregation in

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Dr. Vern Heidebrecht

Abbotsford, British Columbia. He was bom in Tofield, Alberta, and raised, like his wife, Carol, in the Abbotsford area. He has served as a pastor for five years in North Dakota, twenty years in California, and for eleven years at Northview. He completed his undergraduate work in Winnipeg and North Dakota, and finished a Masters of Divinity and Doctor of Minis­ try degrees in California. The Heidebrechts have four children and two granddaugh­ ters. In 1988 they returned to the Abbotsford area to serve at Northview. Since that time the congregation has grown from 400 to more than 3200 in weekly service attend­ ance. His ministry team carries a passion to follow Jesus in carrying out the Great Commission and building an effective church ministry. Contemporary worship and leadership development are signifi­ cant aspects of Northview’s core values. “It is my conviction that God is preparing His people for a new work of grace and renewal as we march towards the year 2000,” says Dr. Heidebrecht. On Friday Dr. Heidebrecht will address the ministerial and spouses on “Healthy Pastors and Spouses in Ministry,” and “‘Healthy’ Conflict in the Church.”

COMING EVENTS

June 10 EMC Golf Classic Steinbach Fly-In Golf Course Steinbach, Man. Phone: 204-255-8062 June 10-12 Promise Keepers Conference (Bring a Teddy Bear!) Phone:888-901-9700 June 10-18 Art, Media, and Music Conference Tyndale College and Seminary Toronto, Ont. Phone:416-226-6380 July 2-4 49th EMC Convention Calvary Temple Winnipeg, Man. Phone: 204-326-6401 March 3-5, 2000 EMC Leadership Retreat Speaker: Abe Block Camp Ames, Man. Phone: 204-326-6401

FOOD FOR FUN AND FELLOWSHIP I avorite Recipes of the Canadian Evangelical Mennonite Conference IT’S HERE...ACAINI!

Haw ng sold out the first printing of the cookbook so quickly, several corrections were made and 3 second printing is on its way! You now have the opportunity to once again purchase the ookbooks at a cost of $12.80 each (plus Shipping & Handling).

FO< D FOR FUN AND FELLOWSHIP is now available at the Conference Office as well as at Hull's Family Bookstores in Steinbach and Winnipeg. You may also use this form to order your copies by mail. If you’re enjoying your cookbook, why not order a few extras as gifts for others so they, too, can enjoy cooking nearly 600 of our EMC’s favorite recipes! "To date, through the sales of Food for Fun and Fellowship a total of $1,260.00 has been given to our EMC missions program. THANK YOU!!

NAME: ADDRESS:

PHONE: CHURCH:

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Send books at $12.80 Add Shipping & Handling Total Enclosed Return to: Melanie Frayle, P.O. Box 8, Grp. 18, R.R. 1, Steinbach, MB R0A2A0 (cheques payable to Melanie Frayle) Shipping & Handling: 1-3 books to MB/SK $ 4.10, 4-i- books $ 4.55 1-3 books to AB/ON $ 5.45, 4-t- books $ 6.05 1-3 books to BC $ 5.30, 4+books $ 7.10

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The E. M. Conference invites applications for the position of

General Secretary Responsibilities include: Overall administration of Board of Missions programs Management/coordination of conference office personnel and facilities Administration of conference finances Coordination of conference events A job description is available upon request. Preference will be given to applicants with experience and/or training in missions, administration and accounting. Candidates who apply by May 31, 1999, will be given preference. Duties to commence August 1, 1999 Submit application with resume and cover letter to: EMC Search Committee Box 1268, Steinbach, Man. ROA 2AO Phone: 204-326-6401 Fax: 204-326-1613 E-mail: emconf@mts.net PAGE 13

>Y 26, 1999

1999, and sent to Jake Thiessen, Chairperson, Mennonite Foundation of Canada, Box 215, Altona, MB ROG OBO. Editor’s Note: An ad is free. Unless ar­ rangements are made, it can be removed after two insertions. Please include more than one telephone number and contact person, fax number, e-mail (if available), whether the position is full- or part-time, when the application deadline ends and duties begin, and a brief description of education and qualities sought.

Church planter needed for Tillsonburg, in southern Ontario. A core group (with the bless­ ing of the Mt. Salem EMC) is meeting in this city of 16,000 without a Mennonite church. The worker would be under full-time EMC Board of Missions support and is needed as soon as possible. The ability to speak Low German and an understanding of conservative German­ speaking Mennonites are assets. Contact Ca­ nadian Secretary John Koop at 204-326-6401 or other missions staff (Henry Klassen, Lester Olfert) at the same number. Senior pastor position available at the Rosenort EMC. Duties to begin September 1, 1999. Send resume to: Search Committee, Larry Eidse, Box 218, Rosenort, MB ROG 1 WO. Phone: 204-746-8422 (home) or 204-746-8355 (work). E-mail: leidse@hotmail.com.

Pansy Chapel (EMC), a rural congregation of around 100 people, invites applications for its position of pastor (leading minister). Please send resumes to the Search Committee, Box 4, Pansy, MB ROA IJO, or phone Dennis Friesen at 204-434-6386. Duties are to begin after Sep­ tember 1. Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship (EMC) invites applications for its position of pastor. If inter­ ested, please contact the search committee: Ron Penner at 250-567-9983 or Lindsay Janzen at 250-567-4905.

I.

Northern Fellowship Chapel (EMC) con­ tinues to search for a pastor. Part-time salary and housing available currently; position could become full-time. Appli­ cants should be well-grounded spiritu­ ally and personally. Other employment is available, depending on training and experience. Contact: Search Commit­ tee, Box 35, Creighton, SK SOP OAO. Call board member Deb Odegaard at 306-688-2996 or Conference Pastor John Koop at 204-326-6401.

Morrow Gospel Church (EMMC) invites resumes from persons interested in the posi­ tion of senior pastor. Duties are to begin the spring/summer of 1999. Send inquries or resumes to Search Committee, 755 Ste. Anne’s Road, Winnipeg, MB R2N 4G6 or call search committee member Henry Thiessen at 204-2370684. PAGE 14

Rainbow Christian School of Vanderhoof, B.C., is accepting applications from teachers for the following positions: kindergarten, grades 4/5 and 8/9. Please send resume, including philosophy of Christian Education, to Rainbow Christian School, Box 710, Vanderhoof, B.C. VOJ 3A0 or fax to 250-567-3177. For informa­ tion call Wilf Loewen, principal, at 250-5673127 or (after hours) 250-567-5124. EMC ministry opportunities in Mexico. Guest home hosts, a couple to run a guest home in El Paso, Texas, for a oneor two-year volunteer term. Housing and utilities are included. Duties include host­ ing and occasional pastoral visits to mis­ sionaries in Mexico. A youth worker is needed. A single or a couple is needed to work with youth in the Spanish churches. Duties include discipling youth and training/mentoring youth lead­ ers. A pastor for a short-term (5 to 6 months) or long-term (2 to 3 years) min­ istry is needed for a new Low German­ speaking church in Oasis, Chihuahua State. Responsibilities include leader­ ship, preaching, teaching and visitation. This church recently organized with 30 adults who are excited about their church. (Most speak some English.) Contact EMC Foreign Secretary Lester Olfert at 204-326-6401 or other missions staff (Henry Klassen. John Koop) at the same number.

Youth for Christ Altona is looking for an execu­ tive director to develop an outreach ministry via a teen drop-in centre known as The Station, targeting teens falling through society’s cracks. The director will report directly to the board, provide supervision and training for lo­ cal adult volunteers who assist in the outreach process, promote the ministry in the commu­ nity, and supervise any future employees. The candidate is required to raise his/her personal support through deputation. Appli­ cants should have a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and be able to comply with and sign the YFC Statement of Faith and Conduct. Resumes are submitted to Harv Schroeder, Chairman, YFC Altona, Box 1837, Altona, MB ROG OBO. Phone: 204-324-5292. Blumenort EMC seeks a full-time senior pastor in plural ministry. Contact PSC chairman Glen Loewen 204-326-5119, PSC member Menno Barkman at 204-326-1554, or the church office at 204-326-1644. Address: Blumenort EMC, Box 114, Blumenort, MB ROA OCO. Fax: 204-3265504. E-mail: blumemc@mb.sympatico.ca.

I

Positions available in the Winnipeg MCC office: Peace and Justice Program Assistant, Office Administration Assistant, Central Files Man­ ager, Women’s Network Coordinator. MCC qualifications include a commitment to the Christian faith, active church membership and nonviolent peacemaking. Call Marsha Jones or Marilyn Funk, MCC Canada, 204-261-6381.

EMC ministry opportunities in Paraguay. Church ministries workers are needed to fol­ low up contacts, disciple new believers and train for leadership. Church organizational skills are an asset. Involvement would be within mral and urban settings. Contact Lester Olfert at 204-326-6401 or other missions staff (Henry Klassen, John Koop) at the same number.

Youth for Christ Carman needs a full-time execu­ tive director. Successful applicant must have a desire to minister to young people, the ability to raise funds and promote YFC in the community. For more information contact Ang Penner, Box 449, Carman, MB ROG OJO, Phone: 204-745-6186. E-mail: yfchrist@mb.sympatico.ca.

Mennonite Foundation of Canada requires a permanent full-time general manager. MFC is commissioned by five Mennonite conferences across Canada and has its head office in Win­ nipeg. Its mission is to develop Christian disci­ pleship through the integration of Bible-based stewardship teaching and the promotion of a practical lifestyle of personal sharing and re­ sponsible distribution of possessions. The General Manager is accountable to the Board of Directors and is responsible for di­ recting and implementing the goals and mis­ sion of MFC. The successful applicant will be required to reside in Winnipeg. Duties include organizational leadership and policy development, implementation and com­ pliance; coordinating, monitoring and super­ vising the day-to-day operations and more. For afull list of qualifications and experience sought, and compensation available, please contact MFC. Applications are to be received by May 31,

The Community Bible Fellowship Christian School in Swan River, Man., has an opening for a Grade 1 and 2 combined classroom teacher for the 1999-2000 school year. Pastoral references re­ quired. Inquire with Principal Ken Geddert, 204734-2174, or send resume to CBS Christian School, Box 1630, Swan River, MB ROL IZO. The Evangelical Fellowship Church (EMC) of Steinbach, Man. (a growing city of 10,000), is accepting applications for se­ nior pastor. The successful candidate will be a godly person; have previous pastoral experience; have strong preaching/teaching gifts; be committed to pastoral care; train and equip the congregation for minis­ try and outreach; and have good public relations skills. An information packet is available upon request. Direct inquiries to Lester Olfert at 204-326-6401. Send resumes to EFC Pastoral Search Commit­ tee, Box 2758, Steinbach, MB R0A2A0.

THE MESSENGEI

PETER HARMS 1919-1999 On April 16, 6:30 a.m., our dear hus­ band, father, grandfa­ ther and great-grand­ father left his earthly body and went to be with his Creator and Friend. Peter Harms was bomonMay21,1919, to Peter and Maria Harms, beside the PETER HARMS Morris River, seven miles from the Red River, as he used to say. Dad trusted Christ as his Saviour and was baptized on July 25, 1937, in the Rosenort Kleine Gemeinde (now EMC) by Jacob B. Kroeker. He remained faithful to his com­ mitment until the end. He was married to Neta Friesen on Febru­ ary 15, 1942, and settled down in Rosenort. In 1953, because of the lack of work and the flood of 1950, they moved to Riverton, Man. Pioneering was hard, but Dad had many sto­ ries to tell of clearing land, logging and bush camps in that timber-wolf country. During the summers he worked on con-

stmction jobs to create extra cash. Dick and Ben Klassen were usually part of that crew, and they called themselves Pepsi Construction. They had many fun times together. In 1969 Dad and Mom moved to Blumenort, Man., and he worked at the Rest Haven in Steinbach, Man., as an or­ derly. He often said that he wished he would never be as helpless as many as the residents there, though he was during the last four weeks of his life. Before his re­ tirement he spent years in custodial work at the Blumenort Elementary School, Rest Haven and Janzen Garage. In 1991 his friend and wife, Neta, went to her eternal home, leaving him very lonely. In the summer of 1992 the Lord was espe­ cially gracious to him and allowed him to meet Helen Hildebrand. He fell in love with her, and they were married on September 19, 1992. She has been a wonderful part­ ner and wife for him. As a family we thank her for always being there for Dad, espe­ cially during his last days. Many people will remember Dad for his gift of massaging; some of his friends will remember their fishing trips with him; and others will remember him on his Massey

tractor. He gladly cleared driveways, plowed gardens and cut grass along the Blumenort streets. Our dad was a man of principles. Even though he did not preach, he taught by ex­ ample. Many times he wrote his deep thoughts on paper. Dad is the first of his siblings, a family of twelve, to cross the Jordan to his heavenly home. He was predeceased by his par­ ents; three children, Esther, Elma and Leonard; and his first wife, Neta. Cherishing his memory are his wife, Helen; six children, Mary and Abe Barkman (Riverton), Paul and Mildred (Riverton), Ed and Helen (Riverton), Doris and Burt Plett (Minneapolis, Minn.), Betty and Glen Plett (Riverton), Henry and Lorna (Blumenort); seventeen grandchildren, seven great­ grandchildren, seven sisters, four brothers, in-laws, and many friends. We thank the doctors and nurses of the Steinbach Bethesda Hospital for the com­ passionate care they gave Dad during the last four weeks of his life. Thank you also to the many relatives and friends who have been a continuous support through this dif­ ficult time. We love you all. The Harms Family

LINDA JANZEN FRIESEN 1922-1999 I will lift up mine eyes to the hills, from whence

family and relatives in Mexico. In 1992 Mom and Dad moved to the Oakview Manor in Blumenort. Dad passed away in March 1995. Mother kept busy making quilts and blankets for MCC and knitting afghans for her grandchildren. She sewed for other people, and baked cookies for camps, clubs and other groups. She loved garden­ ing and looked forward to spring. Mom had a heart for needy people, continuing her involvement with Grace Mission and Wycliffe Bible Translators after Dad passed away. She was independent by nature and healthy most of her life. On May 1, 1995, she broke her knee. Though she never regained full use of her leg, she was ac­ tive without a cane. A year later she went on a bus tour to Pennsylvania with her friend Helen Friesen. Mom read her Bible daily and was trying to read it through in one year. Between her Bible’s pages are many prayer letters from missionaries and special verses writ­ ten on small pieces of paper. Mother accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Saviour, and upon her confession of faith was baptized in June 1939. She was concerned that her family would follow the Lord, and was thrilled when her grand­ children were to be baptized. On April 5, she had severe abdominal pain, was admitted to the Ste. Anne Hos­ pital and then transferred to St. Boniface Hospital for tests. The doctors said she had liver cancer. She was transferred to Steinbach’s Bethesda Hospital Palliative

Care Unit. She expressed a desire to go to her suite, so we made plans to take her home on a Friday. We were puzzled when she did not respond to being home as we had ex­ pected. The next day, Saturday, we were called to her bedside and were told she had twenty-four to forty-eight hours to live. We could not believe her change overnight. The whole family came to see her on Sat­ urday afternoon to say goodbye. On Mon­ day morning, April 26, she died as peace­ fully as she lived. She will be remembered by two daugh­ ters, Lorna and Peter Penner (Blumenort, Man.), Pat and Wes Plett (Blumenhof, Man.), and one son, Earl and Mona Janzen (Ste. Anne, Man.); two stepdaughters, Ber­ tha and Dave Plett (Mexico), Linda (Steinbach, Man.), and one stepson, Dan and Ann Friesen (Steinbach); grandchil­ dren, great-grandchildren, three sisters, six brothers and their families. She was predeceased by her first hus­ band, Klaas F. Janzen, in 1972; her second husband, John D. Friesen, in 1995; one step­ son in 1983; three brothers and one sister. We express our appreciation to Dr. Hamm and the staff at the Bethesda Hospital for their care during her last days. Thank you to Pastor Melvin and Eva Penner for the hospital visits to Mom and for the care and help after she passed away. Thank you to the many people who have shown their love and support to us during these past few weeks. Her Family

cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth (Psalm

121:1-2). Our mother was bom in Greenland, Man., on April 1, LINDA JANZEN FRIESEN 1922,10 Peter D. and Helena Goossen. She was the sixth of four­ teen children. She learned to work on the farm and enjoyed going to school. She fin­ ished Grade eight, which was unusual then for a girl. She had various work experiences: at St. Boniface Hospital as a nurse’s aide; cook­ ing at a lumber camp; working at a fruit cannery, in pulp and paper mills and at Manitoba Dairy & Poultry Co-op Ltd. (now Granny’s). Mom, with Dad Friesen, worked at Mennonite Heritage Village as a tour guide for several summers. After meeting Klaas F. Janzen, they were married on June 4, 1949. They lived on Dad’s family farm in Greenland for ten years. Dad built a new house in Blumenort, Man., where they moved to in 1959. He died in July 1972, leaving mother lonely but active with her family. Mom met and married John D. Friesen in 1975. They travelled, frequently visiting MAY 26, 1999

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‘GOD DOES CARRY US’

Tragedy

a Kathy Klassen

THE PERSONAL TOUCH is the page I read first when The Messenger arrives. I have been a widow for ten years; my husband died of a heart attack while driving a semi-truck. 1 enjoy my home near Aylmer, Ontario, but often I feel alone and need to get away. I’ve decided to share some unplanned events which have been part of my life in the first few months of this year. In January one of my cousins in Mexico had a very serious accident, a head-on collision. There was no one to give first aid, and when the ambulance finally arrived they did not have enough money to pay for it, so the am­ bulance left. (This young family, with four small children, has always been very poor.) A man in a pickup came along, got them out of the wreckage and took them to the hospital. There again they were asked for money, which the family did not have. The mother had a broken leg and arm and many cuts on her head. The two boys both had a broken leg. The stranger demanded that the mother receive the needed attention immediately, so he signed for her — truly a Good Samari­ tan] The mother’s leg was so severely crushed that it had to be amputated below the knee. 1 wanted to do something for them but didn’t quite know what. A cousin from Leamington called and asked me to collect money for this family from relatives and friends, which 1 did. 1 arranged to go with them to Mexico to visit the family, as well as other relatives, and try to help them. A few days before we were to leave, the roads were slippery and slushy; 1 lost control of my car and ended up in a ditch, which had a high embankment. There was damage to the car, but 1 was fine, thank God! We arrived in Mexico on February 13, a month after the terrible accident. The mother was still in the hospital. Her face and head had healed well, and she acknowledged that the Lord had helped her. She was looking forward to going home, but she needed more surgery. A steel plate was put in above the knee, and after two days she was able to go home. 1 didn’t sense any sadness from her, only

hope. One day some cousins and 1 went shopping and got groceries to replenish their pantry, as well as a washing machine. I also looked after some needed repairs in the house. Another tragedy happened a few days before we were leaving for home. Several children were playing on the yard, some jumping on a trampoline and others enjoying riding a horse. An hour after 1 left their home, we got the shocking news that my cousin’s seven-year-old son had fallen off the horse and was seriously injured. The horse went through a dip, and the boy lost his balance. He fell off, but his foot stayed in the saddle stirrup, and he was dragged before the horse could be stopped. At first they thought he was dead, but when they took him to the hospital they noticed that he was breathing. They found no broken bones, but he had severe internal injuries. Before he died he asked his parents not to shoot the horse because it wasn’t its fault. 1 spent an hour with the family before we started our trip home. Shortly after I got home 1 ex­ perienced another tragedy. The eighteen-year-old son of my husband’s brother was riding his dirt bike and was in a headon collision with a pickup truck and killed instantly. A sad event for the family and community! All these events in less than three months are reasons to do some very serious thinking and praying. God, with His everlast­ ! ing love and strong arms, does carry us at such times.

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Kathy Klassen lives near Aylmer, Ontario, and is a mem­ ber of the Straffordville EMC.

Do you have a story for The Personal Touch? Il 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.

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

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