The Messenger October 20, 1999

SOMETHING FOR ALL AGES Steinbach, Man. (Stony Brook): September 10-12 saw our church converge on Gimli Bible Camp. Four very capable young women looked after the children during the sessions, which was greatly appreciated by the parents. The children also seemed to have a wonderful time in their own sessions, singing, doing crafts, learning verses and watching skits. Donnelda Friesen and Heather McNair served as camp cooks. Corny Krahn was spotted doing dishes. Heidi Friesen

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Games were played at camp, including a rousing Saturday afternoon volleyball game.

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Our first baptism took place in a very wavy Lake Winnipeg on Sunday morning. Pastor Earl baptized Joe Thiessen, with Emery Plett standing by. Corinne Thiessen, Joe’s wife, joined our church by transfer.

Musical abilities were displayed by all ages during the Talent Show; Laurel and Josh Rempel, Pat Martens and Vic Friesen.

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Our camp photo shows how our numbers have doubled since last year.

INSIDE: John Banman was our energetic speaker.

•Chris Puhach: Every Hour, Every Minute, Every Second! •More Church News

EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE VOLUME 37 NUMBER 18 OCTOBER 20, 1999

.....Page 3 Pages 8-11

Messenger EDITOR Terry M. Smith

Reg Bibby: A Needecd Burr REGINALD W BIBBY, a sociologist out of The University of Lethbridge, Alberta, has written books on the church in Canada which con­ tain challenges on how we evangelize and nurture faith within the EMC. His name came up during our national convention when the speaker. Dr. Vern Heidebrecht, mentioned briefly some of Bibby’s findings. 1 was familiar with Bibby’s Fragmented Gods: The Poverty and Potential ofReligion in Canada (1987). Recently — to my chagrin, four years after the fact — I came across a 1995 publica­ tion called There’s Got to Be More! Connecting Churches and Canadians (Wood Lake Books). 1 appreciate what Bibby has said about the Canadian religious psyche; more importantly, 1 need to hear it. To some Bibby will seem like a burr under the saddle of the Canadian church. His books examining the religious scene in Canada tend to poke at various views which help some cir­ cles cope with failure and excuse ineffective methods. Bibby says that Canadians are interested in spiritual matters and that they need what churches have to offer. He goes on to say, how­ ever, “the heart of the problem” in making the connection between churches and Canadi­ ans “is churches.” Consider these snippets from his book: •“...the research tells us that most Canadi­ ans are not looking for churches — or even religion, at least as many of them understand it. But people do express spiritual and super­ natural interest, have personal desires and needs, and want to experience enhanced in­ terpersonal life. Therein, 1 have been maintain­ ing, lies religion’s great challenge and oppor­ tunity. “A religion that begins with God and that pro­ ceeds to minister to the spiritual, personal, and social needs of Canadians is a religion that has the potential to have a profound impact on Canadians” (pp. 53-54). • “...one of the main reasons why Canada’s churches are not ministering to a larger number of people is because they typically wait for people to come to them” (p. 32). •“...many religious groups look very much like ‘religious clubs,’ with fairly predictable cli­ enteles and cultures.... Homogeneous churches are not especially appealing to out­ siders who, because of ethnicity or class or PAGE2

religious culture, do not ‘fit in’” (p. 33). •“...I’ve argued for some time that there is nothing in the stars that requires young peo­ ple to drop out [from church] in their late EDITORIAL teens. 1 suspect that most who say goodbye to ASSISTANT the churches do so for one main reason: they Martha Kroeker THE MESSENGER is the don’t find churches to be particularly enjoy­ publication of the Evangelical able or gratifying environments” (p. 75). Mennonite Conference. It is • “If young people are going to stay, then they available to the general public. Its purpose is to inform, instruct have to be treated like the rest of us. They have and inspire: inform concerning to find that they are respected, valued, wanted events and activities in the and needed. They have to find out that the denomination; instruct in god­ liness and victorious living; church environment is one that is in touch inspire to earnestly contend for with their spiritual, personal, and relational the faith. Letters, articles, photos and needs—including their enjoyment of music!... poems are welcomed. Unpub­ As part of being treated as full-fledged people, lished material is not returned children and teens need to be seen as an im­ except by request. The views and opinions expressed by the portant part of the church not just in the fu­ writers are their own and do not necessarily represent the posi­ ture but in the here and now” (p. 76). tion of the Conference. • “...it is imperative for religious groups to be­ THE MESSENGER is pub­ come far more deliberate about keeping track lished twice a month (once a of their geographically-mobile members. Far month in July and August) by the Board of Church Ministries of too many active members and nominal affili­ the Evangelical Mennonite Con­ ates are being lost to the churches in the course ference, 440 Main Street, Steinbach, Manitoba. of moving from place to place” (p. 78). Subscriptions: $12.00 per Bibby cares greatly about the church and year (Manitoba residents add (Canadians. He does bring in Scripture at times, 7% PST, total: $12.84). Sub­ scriptions are voluntary and op­ and is a seminary graduate; both witness to tional to people within or outside his own commitment to the church. He is, of the EMC. Members and ad­ herents pay through their however, also looking at the church in Canada church. with the trained eye of a sociologist, drawing THE MESSENGER is a member of Meetinghouse and conclusions from research. Canadian Church Press. As 1 work through the book, there are com­ Second-class postage paid at forting and disturbing portions. That is neither Steinbach, Manitoba. Registration Number: 0591 unexpected nor unusual; many people can Mailing information: All share stories of how they have been both com­ correspondence, including forted and disturbed by the church. Like many undelivered copies, change of address and new subscriptions, others, I am concerned as well about how the should be addressed to: The Messenger church is perceived by those who are not ac­ PO. Box 1268 tively involved within it and how to help more Steinbach, Manitoba people to become active within it. ROA 2A0 Bibby says that churches need more “collec­ Phone; 204-326-6401 tive, cooperative ministry.” I agree. The Chris­ Fax.: 204-326-1613 tian church and the kingdom of God go far E-mail: emconf@mts.net beyond the EMC, the wider Mennonite church, and self-described evangelicals. Cover: Stony Brook FellowBibby’s work can assist us as we consider ship'held'Tts'famify camp at our methods for including people in local Gimli Bible Camp, churches, retaining “affiliates” (as he calls them), and expansion in Canada. Whether we MESSENGER SCHEDULE No. 20 - November 17 want to be helped is, of course, not decided (copy due November 5) by him. No. 21 - December 01 TenyM. Smith

(copy due November 19)

THE MESSENGER

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‘BECOMING GOD-INTOXICATED’

Every Hour, Every Minute, Every Second! Chris Puhach What a Story! IN 1929 A MAN by the name of Frank Laubach made a commitment, a commitment to live in “continuous inner conversation with God and in perfect response to His will.” Although expecting somewhat of a change in his life, never could he have guessed what was about to happen. Let us ponder his own words: “This concentration upon God is strenuous, but every­ thing else has ceased to be so. I think more clearly. 1 forget less frequently. Things which I did with a strain be­ fore, now 1 do easily and with no effort whatever. I worry about nothing, and lose no sleep. I walk on air a good part of the time. Even the mirror reveals a new light in my eyes and face. I no longer feel in a hurry about anything. Every­ thing goes right. Each minute I meet calmly as though it were not important. Nothing can go wrong except one thing. That is that God may slip from my mind.” Amazing, isn’t it? If we are honest, are there not times when we feel burdened by the “duty” to spend time with God — to pray, to be still before Him, to fellowship with other believers in His presence? Yet here was a man who was afraid of the possibility that God would slip from his mind. Here was a man who pursued a relationship with God to the point where he had days of which we only dream. Listen to the way he describes such a relation­ ship: “Last Monday was the most completely successful day of my life to date, so far as giving my day in complete and continual sunender to God is concerned. I remember how as 1 looked at people with a love God gave, they looked back and acted as though they wanted to go with me. I felt then that for a day I saw a little of that marvellous pull that Jesus had as He walked along the road day after day, 'God-intoxicated’ and radiant with the endless commun­ ion of His soul with God.” No Easy Answer Wow! By now I’m sure you’re asking the same ques­ tion I asked when I first read these words. How can I expe­ rience this intimacy with God? Perhaps we must live out our lives by constantly asking the question. What would Jesus do? and acting on the answer. Or maybe we need to pray and fast more. Or could it be that, by God’s grace, we need to give in less to the temptations that surround us day by day? Maybe one of these suggestions is the answer, but it is more likely that the answer lies in not one but a combina­ tion of the above. Unfortunately, 1 do not know. However, that is not the purpose of this article. Instead, the purpose of this article is to encourage all of the believers within the EMC to search for an intimacy with God, an intimacy that is nothing less than being God-intoxicated. OCTOBER 20, 1999

The Road Less Travelled The road with the potholes is the one most often trav­ elled (for proof, just see Winnipeg’s streets!). It is the road we take when we develop Sunday school programs and services that are meant to create, by human means and rationale, an intimacy with God. However, such efforts will ultimately fail. The fmit of such efforts will be churches with lots of programs but little spiritual growth, churches that have attempted to discover the ten steps to intimacy with God, yet have no one on “fire” for God. Of course, things need not be this way. Instead, we can take the road less travelled. What is that road? It is a road difficult to describe, a road that even the best humanmade map does not have. Basically, it is a road that we can find only by desiring it. Sounds complex and cryptic, doesn’t it? We don’t know exactly what this road is, but we must desire to find it, and only when we do can we actually discover it. In other words, tme intimacy with our Saviour and Lord will come when we desire that intimacy and follow the road that appears before our eyes as that de­ sire breeds an increasing oneness with God. There Are Many Roads Will the road be the same for everyone? The answer is no, and to think so is dangerous. After all, brother or sister in Christ Joe and Mary may be experiencing an intimacy with God that looks exciting. However, to model their ac­ tions will not produce the same result in all Christians. We cire unique individuals with unique gifts. We all belong to Tl

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Chris Puhach is a second-year student at Providence Theo­ logical Seminary in Otterburne, Manitoba. He and his wife, Carolynn, attend Braeside EMC in Winnipeg, where they were recently elected as a deacon couple. PAGE 3

In Other words, true intimacy with our Saviour and Lord will come when we desire that intimacy and follow the road that appears before our eyes as that desire breeds an increasing oneness with God.

the Body, although we are various body parts. Therefore, as you desire God, as you search for our individual roads to intimacy with Him, make it a search that is between you and your Creator and Sustainer. That said, listen to others’ experiences and share your own. We can be encouraged and blessed by others’ testimo­ nies of their experiences. But do not copy such stories; to do so will lead to a dead end.

Enjoy the Journey! Last summer my wife and 1 drove to Toronto and back. We had many exciting things planned — a trip to Cana­ da’s Wonderland, a Blue Jays game, a day at Niagara Falls, fine dining and Shopsy’s hotdogs. We were not disap­ pointed. However, the highlight of the trip was none of the above; it was the beautiful forest, rocks and lakes of northern Ontario. You see, in focusing on the destination, 1 had forgotten about the journey. Yet it was that very journey that put our search for true intimacy with God into perspective. Chances are that we will never reach the point that Frank Laubach did. However, be encouraged that we can enjoy the journey as we head towards the ultimate destination, a destination where tme intimacy will no longer be a dream but a reality — heaven. Of course, in the meantime, we can move closer to God every hour, every minute and every second. With this movement we can increasingly cry out with the psalmist, “How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord Almighty! My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God” (Psalm 84:1 2). God will bless us as we desire to know Him.

A Way Out Sin invades our life Plunging into our soul Like a piercing knife Leaving a gaping hole.

We scream for relief As the blood flow quickens Oh the sorrow and grief How it crushes and sickens. But do not despair Brothers and sisters As Jesus has repaired Our cuts and blisters.

So give yourself to Him In all His glory Do not be afraid to swim And reach his eternal quarry. PAGE 4

A CLOSER LOOK:

Will compassion greet the new Boat People? In 1979 thousands of boat people fled persecution by the communist regime in Vietnam. Canada opened its arms to huge numbers of these refugees, as well as those from Cambodia and Laos. Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) was at the fore­ front, helping Mennonite churches sponsor approximately 5000 refugees from Southeast Asia. Twenty years later more boat people have arrived off the coast of B.C. This time they’re from China. And their arrival has sparked questions and concerns. What are they doing here? What kind of illegal activities are they involved in? Can they be refugees when they just show up on our shores? As coordinator of refugee programs for MCC Canada, Tim Wichert deals daily with these difficult issues. Mennonite churches have long assisted refugees they have selected overseas. But what of newcomers who come uninvited to our country and make refugee claims here? “Our approach as churches must be based on com­ passion. Our challenge is to ensure that as Christians we are indeed compassionate,” says Wichert. He says it’s important to look beyond the news to see the people involved and why they are taking such desper­ ate actions. “The reasons for migrating and fleeing these days are very complicated, but we can usually be assured that peo­ ple are doing so because they really feel they have to,” said Wichert. “I’m not saying that all these people should au­ tomatically be allowed to stay, but that we need to at least listen to, and try to understand, their reasons for fleeing in such a desperate manner. “If it turns out that they are not genuine refugees, then there is a process for sending them back.” Wichert sees communicating refugee issues to church groups as an important part of his work. “As we get fur­ ther removed as a culture from our immigrant roots, it is easy to forget about our personal connection to the plight of refugees,” he says. MCC also works closely with other church groups to advocate on behalf of refugees. Wichert says the federal government has drastically reduced the numbers of refu­ gees that it accepts into Canada and is attempting to do so further. MCC calls for a more accepting environment for refugees. For example, MCC has urged government to remove the $975 Head Tax imposed on every adult refugee apply­ ing for permanent residence in Canada. And MCC has called for faster overseas processing time for refugees, which can take up to two years. The government proved this past summer with the refu­ gees from Kosovo that it can process refugee cases more quickly if it really wants to, said Wichert. “These delays simply encourage people to find more underhanded ways to get here.” THE MESSENGER

MCC’s high-profile work in Mennonite communities continues to be refugee sponsorship. But Wichert also anticipates growing opportunities to work with refugees who have already arrived in Canada and are claiming refu­ gee status here. He believes it’s something in which congregations can also become involved. “These people are here. You see them in the news. You see them in your community,” he said. “Their needs call for compassion too.” Carol Thiessen

From Bosnia to Boissevain After spending the first decades of their lives in a cozy village home in Bosnia, with family surrounding them, the life of Cheely and Senada Traljesic was torn apart by war. They endured four years of violence and food short­ ages as Bosnia convulsed in the ethnic violence that has gripped the Balkans this decade. Cheely fought on the Muslim side of the Bosnian conflict until, shaken by the horror of what was happening, he quit. He and Senada ended up in a refugee camp where they languished for a year. “War destroyed everything that is normal for life,” said Cheely. “All that you did is nothing. All that you had is gone.” Still, he clung to the hope that they would find a place to belong again. Meanwhile, across the ocean in the sleepy farming com­ munity of Boissevain, Manitoba, the Mennonite Brethren church decided to help a refugee family. It took a few years of red tape and false starts, but eventually the right connection was made. The Traljesics had found a new home. They arrived in the midst of a cold blast of winter in January 1996. Over the first few months they slowly be­ came more comfortable with the English language. They found work, and by six months had bought a modest twostory house. “If you have to start your life from zero it is

hard. But it is something,” says Cheely, 36. “Boissevain is a little town, but we have everything here.” Their story is the story of many refugees. They are peo­ ple whose pasts have been destroyed. They are fleeing war, persecution, political upheaval. Refugees are looking for a piece of “normal” again — a taste of hope to propel them onward. Of the approximately 15 million refugees in the world (not including the millions who fled their homes but not their countries), Canada accepts approximately 25,000 each year. In the last twenty years, MCC has helped Mennonite and Brethren in Christ churches in Canada sponsor some 10,000 refugees to come to Canada. Besides volunteer time and energy, the church groups have spent an esti­ mated $40 million to help these newcomers settle in a new country. In the Traljesic case, MCC helped the Boissevain church sort through the layers of paperwork and facilitate the right match. The Canadian government covered costs for the first three months of the Traljeslcs’ stay in Canada, while the church guaranteed financial support for the rest of the first year, along with moral and social support. It took only a few months, however, before the Traljesics were fully supporting themselves financially, and beginning to fit into their new community. “1 know it has taken a lot of time with them and effort, but it’s very rewarding to watch them learn English and so on,” says Kathy Peters, part of the church’s voluntary com­ mittee that has worked with Cheely and Senada. A number of church families have spent a lot of time with the newcomers. And they’ve become good friends. “1 think it’s been well worth it,” agrees Ben Martens. “Now you have peace, you have food, you are work­ ing,” says Cheely. “You need time.... Now 1 have been here three years, and 1 finally feel normal.” Carol Thiessen

THERE ARE MORE REASONS TO INVEST WITH US EVERY DAY.

WHAT A SHAME. ftCanarfian

^Foodgiaiiis ^Bank

, Mennonite k Central F Committee

OCTOBER 20, 1999

As God has graciously provided for us, so too should we provide for those who are less fortunate. Invest in the lives of hungry people throughout the world by making a donation to your church's account at Canadian Foodgrains Bank.

Grain donations can be made at any licensed facility on the Prairies or in Ontario. Cash donations to Canadian Foodgrains Bank are also welcome. Call 1-800-665-0377.

Carol Thiessen works in Media Serv­ ices for MCC Canada. She and her hus­ band, Russ Schmidt, attend Aberdeen EMC. PAGES

FORMER MCC WORKER RELEASED IN MALAYSIA Murray Hiebert, a journalist for Far Eastern Economic Review, was released about Oc­ tober 10 after serving four of a six-week jail sentence in Malaysia for an article that the judge said offended him. In January 1997 Hiebert wrote about grow­ ing litigiousness in Malaysia, and made ref­ erence to a lawsuit launched by the judge’s wife against a school because their son was dropped from the debating team. The September 23, 1999, issue of the Far Eastern Economic Reuiew described Hiebert as “a gentleman who by his disposi­ tion and Mennonite upbringing eschews the gruff sometimes found in other equally sea­ soned reporters.” According to the article, a Bible was among the few personal effects Hiebert took to prison with him. Hiebert’s wife and children are in Wash­ ington, D.C., awaiting his release. His par­ ents live in Manitoba. The U.S. and Canadian governments have joined human rights groups in criticizing Malaysia’s action in imprisoning him. Accord­ ing to a news report, authorities released Hiebert early for good behaviour. Hiebert served with MCC from 1973 to 1986 in Vietnam, Laos, and the Washington office.

A CALL FOR SOA’S CLOSING A group of Mexican Mennonites have called for the “definitive closing” of the U.S. Army School of the Americas (SOA). In a statement sent about the SOA to MCC, five Mexico City pastors and twenty-eight church members say they “consider that its

work of people in a community who farm a common plot of land, usually with do­ nated inputs. Once harvested, they do­ nate the crop to CFRB for use in food aid and development projects carried out by church partners. MCC is one of thirteen church partners in CFGB and many of the growing projects help MCC provide food for the hungry. The Canadian International De­ velopment Agency (CIDA) generally matches the donations at a four-to-one ratio, making the giving projects even more valuable. Grain farmer Dave Reimer, who gave up some of his land for the growing project, took a CFGB-organized tour to Africa a number of years ago. That ce­ mented his commitment to growing projects. As he surveyed the strong canola crop from his combine cab, he said he felt no regret for his lost income. “Since I’ve been there [to Africa], it gives you quite a sat­ isfactory feeling, 1 should say.”

LOAN FOR MEXICAN DAIRY CO-OP MCC, with the help of Mennonite and Amish investors, is lending $50,000 to a group of Mennonites in Mexico to buy new heifers to improve a dairy co-op­ erative. The co-operative on Campo 4 colony, near Cuauhtemoc, had been designed with the help of the Kanadier program. When New Zealand heifers produced only fourteen litres of milk per day, down from the expected twenty, the co-op could cover its operating expenses but not buy better animals. Co-op members expect to buy thirtyfive to forty cattle in Manitoba. The loan is at a low interest rate.

military teachings and practices are a great violation of the human rights of Latin Ameri­ cans.” The School of the Americas, located in Ft. Benning, Georgia, provides training for elite Latin American military officers. During 1997 and 1998 Mexican military officials were the largest group trained at the SOA. The SOA is accused of human rights abuses. The pastors and church members close with a cry for others to join their call: “We ask that the Christians of the world lift their voices and fulfill their prophetic role of de­ nouncing injustice...In prayer raised before our heavenly Father, and with a cry of ‘Help!’ to our brothers and sisters, we issue this Statement in favour of closing the U.S. Army School of the Americas.” DONATED HARVEST TO HELP HUNGRY Across Canada more than 175 growing projects are expected to raise approximately $1.8 million worth of grain for Canadian Foodgrains Bank this year. The growing projects — such as the one near Pilot Mound, Manitoba, a project which is worth approximately $15,000 — are the PAGE 6

TURKEY RELIEF EFFORTS MCC and Rosedale Mennonite Mis­ sions have agreed to donate $375,000 toward relief efforts in Turkey. MCC and RMM will work closely with local part­ ners in Turkey to provide winterized tents, elevated tent bases, school sup­ plies and more. The earthquake, which shattered Tur­ key in mid-August, left more than 17,000 people dead and many more homeless. Tent cities have been set up on the out­ skirts of the main cities hit by the earth­ quake. “The needs are still great, especially for winterized housing,” said Rebecca Pereverzoff, an MCC representative. “We have heard figures of several hundred thousand people with no place to go, meaning they’ll have to spend the win­ ter in tent cities.” JUBILEE 2000 INITIATIVE Leaders of church denominations, ma­ jor church agencies (including MCC U.S.) and Catholic religious orders from

throughout the U.S. met with World Bank president James Wolfensohn and other senior WB officials on September 17. The religious leaders emphasized their support for the worldwide Jubilee 2000 campaign that calls for cancelling the debts of poor countries. The poorest countries in the world owe approximately $250 bil­ lion to the WB and other international fi­ nancial institutions. The Jubilee 2000 movement supports implementing debt cancellation in ways that ensure that the savings from debt re­ lief benefits people living in poverty. On June 8 the G-7, the seven most eco­ nomically powerful governments in the world, announced in Cologne, Germany, a Cologne Debt Initiative. The CDl contains a number of improve­ ments over a previous program: It would increase debt relief from $12 billion to $50 billion; raise the number of poor countries potentially eligible for relief from twentysix to thirty-three; and calls for organiza­ tions of ordinary citizens to help design poverty reduction programs funded from debt-relief savings. The CDl has been criticized for not in­ cluding all of the fifty very poor countries which need help, for providing only onethird of the funding needed, and for still requiring IMF-designed policies which are seen as imposing hardship. EFC CALLS FOR ACTION ON SUDAN The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada, which represents approximately 1.2 mil­ lion Canadians, has issued an urgent call to action on Sudan. More people have died in Sudan in this conflict than in Rwanda, Bosnia and Kosovo combined. “It is time that Canada took the strongest action possible to bring an end to this con­ flict,” says Janet Epp Buckingham, direc­ tor of the EFC’s Religious Liberty Com­ mission (RLC), based in Ottawa. The RLC has written a strongly worded letter to Talisman Energy Inc. of Calgary, Alberta, asking it to end its investment in Sudan. RLC has also written to the Minis­ ter of Foreign Affairs asking him to take all possible domestic and international mechanisms to end the conflict in Sudan. RLC is also urging all EFC members to take similar action by writing letters to their elected representatives. Leading Western political figures are in­ creasingly calling the situation in Sudan “genocide.” Human rights abuses have recently been documented again in an exhaustive study by the U.S. Committee on Refugees. That study shows that civil war and famine in Sudan has displaced some four million persons and has resulted in the deaths of over 1.9 million people since 1983. The membership of the EFC includes several Christian organizations that have ties to the people of Sudan. EFC

THE MESSENGER

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WANTED: YOUR GIFTS!

Connections Made, Challenges Given t

Gerald Reimer, Conference Youth Minister, reminded students of the tremendous potential they have to affect the lives of others.

Jordan Fast, an engineering student, shared of being involved in a ministry of personal evangelism in Wildwood, New Jersey.

About 45 students, pastors, and visitors attended the post-secondary students meeting at the University of Manitoba on September 28. People were welcomed by Ed Johnson, Board of Church Ministries board mem­ ber and chairman of the BCM’s education committee. The theme for the day was Wanted: Your Gifts! Gerald Reimer, Conference Youth Min­ ister, was introduced and then gave a de­ votional from the story of Esther. “What a great opportunity God has provided to touch different lives,” he said. “We need to forget about the discussion so preva­ lent in some evangelical circles as to which gifts are the most important to have, and focus on the ones he has given us.” Jordan Fast, an engineering student and connected with Blumenort EMC, spoke of summer ministry with Campus Crusade in Wildwood, New Jersey. The ministry fo­ cused on personal evangelism. Though he was “always nervous,” he found that “ninety percent” of the people ap­ proached were willing to talk. Lester Olfert, Foreign Secretary, shared pamphlets listing service opportunities in EMC missions. He spoke from John 14:21, saying that students need a relationship with the Lord. “If we don’t have a relation­ ship with Him, then our gifts are not going to be used for Him either.” In a dynamic relationship with the Lord, our gifts will come to the forefront and be used for Him, he said. Fiona Plett, of Landmark and a General Studies student, shared of her literacy work in Mali, West Africa. She said that her experience in Africa has opened opportu­ nities for ministry with international stu­ dents on campus.

Fiona Plett spoke briefly about teaching literacy in Mali, West Africa.

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Donavan Friesen, a physical education student, is involved in youth work at the St. Vital EMC. (photos by editor)

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Among the students gathered were Brad Unger, a management student; Heike Schmid, in education; and Kari Fast, a pre-med student. Heike wanted to get into The Messenger.

OCTOBER 20, 1999

Lester Olfert, EMC Foreign Secretary, shared of missions opportunities within the EMC. PAGE?

outdoor education and youth work at Camp Ames, located in north-central Mani­ toba. They are now involved in youth work at St. Vital. Substantial growth has been happening. A prayer time was held, with people di­ vided into small groups. The Board of Church Ministries sponsors

two meetings per year on the campus of the University of Manitoba, to which all post-secondary students in and around Winnipeg are invited. There are plans to expand the meetings to elsewhere in and out of Manitoba. Terry M. Smith

1 WOULD like to open a window on two parts of Africa where Africa InterMennonite Mission (AIMM) has been in­ volved for many years. The EMC is a part­ ner in this mission and is committed to providing missionaries and financial sup­ port to AIMM. For the first picture, we go to Congo in Central Africa, where AIMM has been involved since 1912. During the past 40 years Congo has experienced economic and political instability, often in the con­ text of civil war. Recently Rev. Fimbo, president of the Mennonite Church of Congo, reported that famine and pov­ erty continues to grow each day in the Republic of Congo. He wrote of misery, of 100 per cent inflation, and of nourish­ ment becoming rare and sometimes im­ possible to find. Hospitals lack medica­ tion to give proper care. The picture is grim in this respect.

He continued his report saying that in spite of these extreme difficulties the people continue to pray to God. The churches grow as the Good News touches people who are being trans­ formed into disciples of Jesus Christ. Here is the picture of a growing church that numbers 85,000 baptized believers, with 220 ordained pastors, in the midst of adversity. Next we open the window on the southern part of the continent in Bot­ swana where AIMM missionaries work with Africa Independent Churches in a Bible-teaching ministry. Recent reports indicate that a dominant reality for Botswana is the impact of AIDS on the population at large and in the church as well. With nearly one-third of the population HIV positive, the number of funerals is increasing. The churches are struggling with the ravaging effects of AIDS, but they are ac­ tive in responding to needs around them. Congregations are alive and excited about Jesus and ministering to others. A youth group put together a drama teach­ ing abstinence until marriage and total commitment to Jesus. The need and opportunity for the Bi­ ble-teaching ministry continues to be an

important focus for AIMM missionaries. A recent report stated that it is becom­ ing increasingly difficult to know how to respond to the many requests for Bible classes. Evidently there is a real hunger for God’s Word. The difficulty is to find teachers to teach these classes. Because of the impact of AIDS, AIMM missionaries have taken steps to address this issue in very practical ways. AIMM personnel are involved in training pro­ grams for pastors, providing them with tools to deal with the AIDS issue. They have also started peer-counselling pro­ grams for teens and feeding programs for AIDS orphans. Churches are organizing small groups to care for the physical and spiritual needs of those who are sick and their families. Here is a picture of a growing church fac­ ing difficult social and spiritual needs of society. People are drawn to the church, which they see as a loving and caring com­ munity. May these pictures encourage us to pray for the suffering church in many parts of the world. May we be encour­ aged to show the same zeal for evange­ lism, for love and care for people in our world.

PASTORAL COUPLE HONOURED Rosenort, Man.: We had a special fam­ ily Sunday on September 19 to honour Pas­ tor Menno Kroeker and his wife, Dorothy, who are leaving to serve an interim pastor position at the Mount Salem EMC. We enjoyed a potluck dinner after the service. Menno and Dorothy were given several tokens of appreciation by the con­ gregation. Pastor Menno jokingly said the automatic car starter would be nice to use from his bedroom on those cold winter mornings! Several people shared memo­ ries at the open mike. Later that evening we gathered again for a concert given by Jon Buller. (Frank and Marge Kroeker have been elected as our interim pastoral cou­ ple.) We were pleased to accept John Wiebe as a baptized member on August 29. Here are excerpts from his testimony; “During my childhood in Mexico, I attended a pri­ vate school and became a Christian at a

young age. We moved to Canada when 1 was ten, and as 1 grew older 1 became oc­ cupied with things other than God, and drifted away. “God started to become less and less a part of my life. Even though 1 was doing wrong, 1 always felt that God was near me, and 1 knew someday 1 would have to con­ fess my sins to Him. Yet 1 continued to push Him away. Shortly after 1 realized 1 needed God in my life, 1 met Desiree (now my wife). She showed me that being a Christian isn’t boring, and answered a lot of my questions. “1 rededicated my life and began to at­ tend church regularly. A verse that has helped me is Isaiah 1 ;8. Since 1 rededicated my life to Christ, my relationship with Him has grown, and He is now a part of my eve­ ryday married life. 1 feel that the next step in strengthening my relationship with Him is to get baptized and become a member of this church.”

Those gathered were invited to share. Ardith Frey, a pastor with overseas mis­ sions experience with MCC, shared that “This (the university campus) is a place of mission.” Donavan Friesen, a physical education student connected with St. Vital EMC, shared that he and his wife had served in

Mi**’""* Henry Klassen Executive Secretary

PAGES

John Wiebe was baptized in August. Pastor Menno Kroeker stands with him.

On September 26 we had an excellent mission night. Our emotions were stirred by the movie Testament of Faith, which was written, produced, directed and acted out by several local youth. The film is dedi­ cated to the Colombian missionaries who are still believed to be held by kidnappers. Dave Schmidt spoke to us on the parable of the ninety-nine sheep and the one lost one that the shepherd seeks. He chal­ lenged each of us to be shepherds who seek the lost instead of being content in the fold like the ninety-nine. May that be a challenge we eagerly respond to as the new millennium approaches! Lori Scharfenherg

THE MESSENGER

THE TWO EVELYNS Landmark, Man.: The sun was shining on the Canadian prairies when Evelyn Barkman came home on furlough in May 1998 from Mali, Africa, where she had served the Lord since 1970 with Gospel Missionary Union. She was glad to meet her loved ones, including the church family. However, before long, dark clouds drifted in. She was diagnosed with can­ cer, and so her furlough was extended. Bravely she carried on in spite of surgery, radiation and chemo treatments. A trust­ worthy trained national took on leader­ ship at the school in Mali. 1 Thank God, she eventually received a clean bill of health, and in August of this year she returned to the ministry of her life. Before she left she inspired the church to become involved in a building Elvira Plett, missionary Evelyn Barkman, and Evelyn Plett (lower left) found the presence her colleagues, Isabel, Marjorie, and project for the school. A giant garage sale Hilda Koop worked hard at a garage sale to of Elizabeth, made special the celebration of raise money for a school in Mali. at the Landmark Arena netted over $4000, both her birthday and thirty years of and a team is getting ready to go to Mali missionary service in Spain. in January 2000. Furthermore, the church her uncles, aunts and cousins present. Pastor Edwin Plett set the tone for the has set a target of $10,000 to be raised to complete the project, with GMU cover­ evening service. He quoted Mr. Hirt, past­ in Spanish, English and German. president of BCM: “No one can know ing the balance. Harvey Plett referred to “their singing A twofold celebration took place for God’s will apart from the Scriptures. May from the heart,” and mentioned that Evelyn Plett on Sunday, September 26, this evening challenge others to go.” The Evelyn has modelled a close relationship upon her arrival from Spain with three audience was given a look into the past with Christ, how to handle difficulties and colleagues. She had an excellent exam­ both reached the age ple for our youth. Comments and trib­ of sixty and had The sun was shining on the Canadian prairies when served thirty years utes came from peo­ Evelyn Barkman came home on furlough in May 1998 with Bible Club Move­ ple who had visited ment (BCM) in Spain. her or spent the from Mali, Africa, where she had served the Lord since summer helping at Around 150 guests 1970 with Gospel Missionary Union. Bethel Bible Centre. came for the faspa (light supper) in her Evelyn was pre­ sented with a watch honour, and others came for the evening service. Besides and present of Evelyn’s experiences by engraved with the words Missionary in her colleagues, Isabel, Marjorie and Eliza­ Evelyn and her colleagues — interesting, Spain, 30 years, 1969-1999. Birthday cake beth, her “parents,” Mr. and Mrs. Cecil honest, informative. They sang two old- and coffee was served in the dining hall. Nelson came from Oshawa, Ontario, for time hymns: Take Thou My Hand, O Fa­ Harold Plett this event. It was good to see many of ther and I Know Whom I Have Believed,

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NFC board members are Marg Cone, Bernie Hillier, Bob Hillier, Deb Odegaard, Janice Imrie, and Dorothy Hillier.

OCTOBER 20, 1999

PASTORAL SEARCH CONTINUES Creighton, Sask.: Terry Smith certainly keeps us in the limelight with his creative ads for a pastor. We appreciate it. It’s amaz­ ing the number of people who have com­ mented that they are aware, through The Messenger, of our need for a pastor. Meanwhile, we plug away. It’s a good thing we didn’t know up front that we’d be waiting three years (except for our much-treasured six-month time with Dick and Tina Unrau)! The board has met with several individuals, and we are continuing to seek the Lord’s guidance. We have been blessed with visits from many guest speakers from near and far. The Region 3 Ministerial has been helpful, providing us with a speaker each month. These people travel from Pelly, Swan River, Birch River, Endeavour, and Hudson Bay; the shortest distance under ideal driving

conditions, rare during winter, is 3'/2 hours. We appreciate the time and effort each traveller puts in. We also have speakers from the local churches — Pentecostal, Baptist, Salva­ tion Army and Mennonite Brethren. For the summer, we invited Alex Suderman, an intern at the MB church, to speak. We moved our church service to 10 a.m. so he could speak in both places. Thank you, Alex! Marg Cone and Kay Smith provide con­ sistent front-line help in serving as greet­ ers and scripture readers. Deb Odegaard continues to lead in worship services. She keeps our services moving quite smoothly. Janice Imrie, Diane Hillier and substitute teacher Bernie Hillier, have started the fall Sunday school program, concentrating on Bible stories from the Old Testament, be­ ginning with the story of Ruth and Naomi. PAGE 9

II I

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Stephanie Melenchuk and her class are ready for the wagon trail, with their stick horses.

Last year they covered the Bible from the period of Creation until the time of Samson. Diane continues to come up with amaz­ ing crafts which tie in with the Bible story. The children love to dramatize each story. They have finished the Sunday school project, raising money to help purchase a guitar for Maureen Pogue who serves with Greater Europe Mission in Latvia. Maureen is from Creighton and has visited our church. Our next project is to contribute toward Spanish Sunday school material, “Teach Us Your Ways,” for Latin America. Our Vacation Bible School drew in fiftysix children, from kindergarten to Grade seven. The theme, Sonward Ho, led the children through the stories of Jesus going to heaven and of the early church. The skit characters, Butch Casserole (Alex Suderman), Doc (Kevin Imrie) and Sun­ flower Kid (Kristen Imrie), experienced many challenges on the wagon trail and learned to share and cooperate.

DEACON ON YOUR DOORSTEP Morris, Man.: Deacon on Your Doorstep is a new program invented by our three dea­ con couples. Church people are being vis­ ited (sometimes unannounced) and cared for. We ourselves were the recipients of a delicious meal. This past summer Pastor Ward Parkinson took us on a study of the Ten Command­ ments. He used a relevant and fresh ap­ proach to get the age-old message across. David and Eleanor Parkinson, who cel­ ebrated fifty years of marriage, were hon­ oured at a special meal at the church on September 13. The basement was deco­ rated beautifully, with an autumn theme, for the potluck dinner. The event was a surprise for the Parkinsons. In September our Sunday school children concentrated on making MCC school kits to be sent to needy countries. TWenty kits were put together. Gaylene Siemens PAGE 10

Kristen Imrie, Alex Suderman and Kevin Imrie were the skit performers for VBS.

Coordinator Janice Imrie, class leaders and helpers guided the children through class discussions and crafts. Diane Hillier was the craft co-ordinator, and many oth­ ers assisted in the preparation of crafts; it was definitely a group effort! In the spirit of sharing, the children contributed to a hamper which was donated to the Food Bank. Bob Hillier’s carpentry skills shone as he added a deck to the front of the manse. Shawn Fraser kept the chapel grass cut this summer. The pastors of Region 3 held their meeting in Creighton on September 19. Lincoln and Marilyn Vellacott, Nathaniel, Samuel and Tabitha; John Reimer; Kenton and Lucille Penner, Ashley and Meagan; Lome and Margaret Moorhead; and Ferlin Abrahamson travelled north to visit us. Deb and Janice also attended part of the meeting. Jack Hillier had surgery in Winnipeg on September 28. Jack and Dorothy have continued to travel to their cabin this sum-

mer. At their age they have great batter­ ies! Bob Imrie finished his chemotherapy and radiation, and his cancer is now in re­ mission. He is feeling better and his appe­ tite is returning. Periodic visits to Saskatoon will continue. Our youth, Kevin, Kathryn and Derek, have been attending the youth group with Dale Warkentin of the MB church and usu­ ally attend the three youth retreats at Simonhouse Bible Camp (September, March and June). Kristen Imrie is enjoy­ ing her second year at Bethany Bible Col­ lege. Kristen and Kevin both worked at Simonhouse Bible Camp this summer, Kevin as a counsellor-in-training and Kristen as counsellor and lifeguard. Lisa Hillier and Kevin Collins have been blessed with a baby girl, Keira. It is nice to have a baby with us again. In closing, thank you for praying for our congregation. Janice Imrie

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Eleanor and David Parkinson celebrated fifty years of marriage.

A parent/child dedication service took place on June 27 at the Morris Fellowship Chapel; Wes and Sherri Siemens with Graham Mackenzie, Chester and Ruth Bartel with Gina Desirae, George and Patti Nickel with Joshua George, Lynn and Betty Bartel with Olivia Kaylyn. THE MESSENGER

ASSISTING MISSIONARY FRIENDS Kola, Man.: Two of our church families had a special opportunity this spring to spend two weeks in Haiti. Their purpose was to visit missionary friends and to work alongside them. Gerald and Elly Martens with children, Tamara, Tyson, Jenette, and Chealsey, and Roy and Vi Kroeker with son, Tim, shared their report on June 6. A slide presenta­ tion helped us gain a better perspective of the daily routine of missionaries, Dave and Ingrid Vaderflier. Then the rest of us had a chance to get involved by giving money for a bread machine for Ingrid; this will free her to spend more time with the na­ tionals. A special treat on June 9 was a concert given by Wayne and Esther Weaver of Apple Creek, Ohio, with daughters, Pauline, Jennifer, and Jessica. Their younger sons, Clinton and Nick, travelled with the family and joined them in one song. An outdoor concert had been planned but mosquitoes and wet weather forced a change. This family, sharing their southern gospel music, travels extensively across North America and are well worth listen­ ing to. Our Sunday school picnic took place on June 13. We appreciated the puppet min­ istry of Julie Friesen of Wawanesa. After the service, the young people served a fund-raising dinner. Games were played on the church yard all afternoon, followed by a wiener roast. The rain held off, thank­ fully, allowing for an evening baseball game on the school yard. A farewell was held for Pastor Henry, Doris and Kendall Plett on June 27. After six years of having a pastor, it is an adjust­ ment again to “do without.” Thankfully, there are those who are willing to stand in

the gap and do extra duty as the search continues for a pastor. Naomi Penner graduated with a two-year diploma from Columbia Bible College on April 18. On June 4, Ryan Klassen received a diploma in electronic computer tech­ nology from CDl Community College in Winnipeg. Grade 12 grads included Maxine Plett, Nikarre Yutzy, Lyndon Klassen, Steven Konkin, Jarvis Penner, and Scott Schellenberg. We wish you the best as you continue where God has placed you. Frank and Mary Braun moved to Maryfleld from Kamsack this spring. On August 15 they were accepted and wel­ comed into our church as members. The youth have been an inspiration to all as they continued with their weekly Bible studies throughout the summer under the leadership of Reuben Penner.

Menno Hamm Returned from El Paso, Texas

INTO MEXICO AND BACK PERHAPS IT IS natural to have a bit of fear about the unknown. When Elvina and I got to El Paso we knew that in time we would have to cross the bor­ der into Mexico. Several “horror” stories of incidents experienced by other tourists fuelled our imaginations. But our missionary friends did their best to calm our fears. If crossing borders was a necessity they took in their stride, we could too. One requirement was insurance for our ve­ Florence Penner hicle because Canadian insurance is not valid in Mexico. That was not a problem; it was available in El Paso through a friendly Chris­ tian agent. In addition to the policy, Mr. Dickie gave us several tips. “Don’t travel at night,” he advised. “There have been collisions with cattle or vehicles without lights abandoned on the highway.” He also informed us that in Mexico pedestrians always have the right of way, even while jaywalking. On the chosen day we prayed again for the Lord’s guidance and protection. Crossing over the Bridge of the Americas, we drove into one of the entry lanes. We had been told to expect either a green or a red light. If green, we could drive on without stopping; if red, we had to pull over to the inspection area. It was green! We were now in a foreign coun­ try in whose language we could not commu­ A farewell was held for Elmer and Betty nicate. What would we do if we had trouble? Siemens on September 17. The Siemens, who On this trip Elvina and I were on our way to moved to Kleefeld, had lived beside the Chihuahua City, and fortunately there were church for 34 years. Their presence will be signs indicating which way to go. About thirty missed. kilometres south of Juarez, we got to the for­ mal immigration station. Here we had to get our personal tourist admissions, the vehicle permit and windshield sticker. Other than taking a considerable amount of time wait­ ing in various lines, the process went quite smoothly. The officials understood our Eng­ lish and served us cordially, if slowly, by our * IV Ill Canadian standards. Back on the highway we passed through the inspection station, answered a few ques­ tions and faced another set of lights. Green! (On some later trips we got red lights, but the inspections were cursory. We never had to ■ unload everything in our vehicle, only open a 1 suitcase or a box and answer a few ques­ tions.) J From there, travel to Chihuahua on the fourI lane highway was a breeze — only one more I checkpoint with armed guards and two toll booths. After about four hours, having re­ ceived good directions, we arrived at our destination without a problem. Subsequent trips became more relaxed, but they were A baptismal service was held on May 30. Baptized were Paul Kruse, Jarvis Penner, Scott Schellenberg, Jolene Schellenberg, Bonnie Friesen, and Tamara Martens. Pastor Henry always bathed in prayer and thanksgiving to Plett stands with them. God.

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OCTOBER 20, 1999

PAGE 11

125 Years of a Godly Heritage Lorilee Scharfenberg

THE REGION 6 churches, located on the area earlier known as the Scratching River Reserve, celebrated 125 Years of a Godly Heritage on July 24-25 at the school in Rosenort, Manitoba. On the Saturday evening of July 24 about two hundred peo­ ple were privileged to enjoy an evening of Low German drama looking at the Early Years on the East Reserve M'rajoa enn de Oost-Resarwe). There was plenty of laughter and even a few tears. On July 25, Sunday, a joint worship service was held at the Rosenort School, sponsored by four area churches. Dr. Harvey Plett spoke in two 20-minute sessions, giving us a short over­ view of Mennonite history in general and then keeping our attention with many unique stories from the past! Walter Dueck led us in a traditional German Mennonite musi­ cal style with two songs from the Old Songbook (O/e Gesangbuch'). It was amazing that the congregation of five hundred sang out the German words loudly and clearly, with no notes or words before them. It was beautiful! The Pleasant Valley men’s quartet harmonized with several selections, and then Lome Loewen directed the congregation in two English hymns. We closed with Youth Pastor Cam Rempel

and the Rosenort Fellowship Chapel Praise and Worship Band leading us in a number of selections. What wonderful and di­ verse music we enjoy! We thought it fitting to give back to the land our forefathers left 125 years ago, so our offering was designated to help build a church in the Ukraine. A total of $5342.00 was given for this project. The afternoon began with an historical artifacts display. Bi­ bles, clothes, dishes, tools, and toys from the turn of the cen­ tury or earlier were displayed by local people. Several items, such as a wafflemaker, a clock, and a cradle, were brought from Russia by the first pioneers in the area. Approximately two hundred people sat in the comfort of an air-conditioned bus on a tour of local historical sites, guided by Alvin Friesen and Amos Fehr. Several cemeteries, old church and school yards, and pioneer homesteads were pointed out. Many more memories were shared by local tourists. This was the highlight of the weekend for many people. At 4:30 a large crowd gathered to enjoy a delicious old-fashioned light supper {faspa), coordinated by Lorraine Loewen.

.. The old Rosenhoff Church Cemetery was one of the stops for the bus tour.

SBC TO PRESENT LES MISERABLES Les Miserables, the classic tale performed on stage by the drama department of Steinbach Bible College, is coming to two points in Manitoba — Steinbach on Novem­ ber 5 - 7 and Portage la Prairie on November 13-14. Set in 1862 France, Les Miserables is a powerful lesson in forgiveness in the midst of human poverty, cruelty and selfishness. It tells the story of an ex-convict, Jean Valjean, who struggles to reform his past while fleeing from the vengeful Javert, an officer dedicated to law and order. Though trapped in the infamy of his past, Valjean is given a second chance by a godly priest. But society is not so forgiving, for PAGE 12

Former Aeltester (elder or bishop) Pete L. Friesen of the Scratching River Reserve examines some of the displayed books. It was great to see him enjoying this event.

despite his efforts to change and to protect the weak, Valjean is relentlessly pursued by those whose laws condemn him. Richard Klassen of Oak Wiley Productions, Inc. directs the play. Casting for the twenty roles took place in September, and the cast will spend an intense three weeks prepar­ ing for the production. Most performances are at 7:30 p.m.; the Nov. 14 performance is at 7:00. Tickets are $8 in advance and $10 at the door. Tickets are available at Henry Armstrong (St. Mary’s, Winnipeg), Hull’s Family Bookstore (Steinbach and Winnipeg), Steinbach Bi­ ble College, or Kitchen Designs and Hill’s Drugstore (Portage la Prairie). SBC

Director Richard Kiassen coaches student Ron Zacharias as he prepares for his role as Jean Valjean in Les Miserables.

THE MESSENGER

'a-.,!

pastor. If interested, please contact the search committee: Ron Penner at 250-5679983 or Lindsay Janzen at 250-567-4905.

Editor’s note: An ad is free. Unless ar­ rangements have been made, it can be removed after two insertions. Please include more than one tele­ phone number and contact person, fax number, e-mail, whether the position is full- or part-time, when the applica­ tion deadline is and duties begin, and a brief description of education and qualities sought.

Mitchell Community Fellowship seeks a pastor on a half-time basis. The congre­ gation, with a Sunday morning attendance of around 100, is covenant-based and is not linked to any denomination. It is lo­ cated in the growing community of Mitchell, Man., three miles west of Steinbach. Ex­ perience and a commitment to preaching, teaching and pastoral ministry are essen­ tial. Send resumes to Search Committee, Box 49, Randolph, MB ROA 1L0. For in­ quiries please contact committee chair Garry Neufeld at 204-377-4283 (phone) or 204-326-9933 (fax).

Looking for an ore-dinary congregation? The Northern Fellowship Chapel (EMC) is located in a mining community. We seek a pastor. Part-time salary and housing available currently. Information package sent upon request. Applicants should be well-grounded spiritually and personally. Other employment is available, depend­ ing on training and experience. Contact: Search Committee, Box 35, Creighton, SK SOP OAO. Call board member Deb Odegaard at 306-688-2996 or Conference Pastor John Koop.

Youth for Christ in Carman, Man., is look­ ing for a person to fill the position of ex­ ecutive director of a drop-in centre. The successful applicant needs to be excited about the challenge of ministering to youth and have a good grasp of dealing with people. For more information, contact Ang Penner (204-745-6186) or Mel Toews (204-745-6062), E-mail: yfchrist@mb.sympatico.ca.

EMC ministry opportunities in Paraguay. Church ministries workers are needed to follow up contacts, disciple new believ­ ers and train for leadership. Church or­ ganizational skills are an asset. Involve­ ment would be within rural and urban set­ tings. Contact Lester Olfert or other mis­ sions staff (Henry Klassen, John Koop).

COMING EVENTS November 5-7 Les Miserables Steinbach Bible College Chapel Steinbach, Manitoba Phone: 800-230-8478 November 10-13 A National Conversation on the Gospel, Church and Culture in the Postmodern Era Prairie Bible College Three Hills, Alberta Phone: 800-705-7481

OCTOBER 20, 1999

The Rest Haven Nursing Home in Steinbach, Manitoba, invites applications for the position of volunteer coordinator on a volunteer basis. Responsibilities in­ clude recruiting volunteers, and assisting the director of recreation services in management/coordination of volunteers. A job description is available upon request. Call Peter Enns (204-326-2206), Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Senior pastor position available at the Mount Salem EMC in Aylmer, Ontario. Duties to begin early spring 2000. Con­ tact Arnold Loewen at 519-773-2728 (phone and fax) or David Dyck at 519765-1409.

EMC ministry opportunities in Mexico. A youth worker is needed to work in the Spanish churches. Duties include discipling youth and training/mentoring youth lead­ ers. A pastor for a long-term (2 to 3 years) ministry is needed for a new Low Ger­ man-speaking church in Oasis, Chihuahua State. Contact Lester Olfert or other mis­ sions staff (Henry Klassen, John Koop).

Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship (EMC) invites applications for its position of youth

is preferred. The application deadline is November 26. Contact: Marsha Jones, MCCC, 134 Plaza Drive, Winnipeg, MB R3T 5K9, phone 204-261-6381, e-mail: mgi@mennonitecc,ca.

MCC Canada seeks a Maritimes regional representative to start June 2000 and be located in a central city in the Maritimes. The work includes program development, personnel supervision, administration and constituency relations. Qualifications in­ clude personal Christian faith, active church membership, and a commitment to nonviolent peacemaking. Previous MCC experience and administrative experience

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. Duties to commence July 1, 2000 Submit application with resume and cover letter to:

Stan Plett, Chairman EMC Search Committee Box 1420, Steinbach, Man. ROA 2A0 Phone: 204-326-6451 • Fax: 204-326-6908 E-mail: splett@sbcollege.mb.ca

November 13-14 Les Miserables William Giesby Centre Portage la Prairie, Man. Phone: 800-230-8478

December 3 Annual Christmas Concert Steinbach Bible College Steinbach, Man. Phone: 800-230-8478

March 3-5 EMC Leadership Retreat Speaker: Abe Block Camp Arnes, Man. Phone: 204-326-6401

November 19-20 Impact '99 Steinbach Bible College Steinbach, Man. Phone: 800-230-8478

December 4 EMC Conference Council Meeting Steinbach EFC Steinbach, Man. Phone: 204-326-6401

March 17-18 SBC Leadership Conference Steinbach Bible College Steinbach, Man. Phone: 800-230-8478

December 3 EMC Ministerial Meeting Ridgewood EMC near Giroux, Man. Phone: 204-326-6401

January 23,2000 World Fellowship Sunday Mennonite World Conference Phone: 204-326-6401

PAGE 13

(Ite Dave Sehellcnbcrg Steinbach, MB

COMING, GOING AND STAYING THROUGH the year 1999, we have been sharing various episodes of our past. We have done this in conjunction with the 125th year of celebration of Dutch-Ger­ man Mennonites coming to Manitoba. You might think But I live in Saskatchewan or Alberta or British Columbia. Why should I care? That’s a good question. You might be a member in an EMC church, with a non-German name such as Smith, Jones, or Mitchell; as such you have no cultural links to the Dutch-German or Russian Mennonites who came to Mani­ toba in the 187O’s. Yet by joining an EMC church you have now latched on to this spiritual heritage. To the rest, whether you live in Saskatch­ ewan, Alberta or British Columbia or else­ where, it is likely that many of those who moved to other provinces had previously settled, or had family who settled, in Mani­ toba. More importantly, 1 believe we can all benefit from any faith stories. The inspira­ tion of the faith of our spiritual forebears is not limited to any certain culture. 1 be­ lieve, and hope, that all readers have ben­ efited from the current series of Pages from the Past. In Proverbs 28:19 we read, “Where there is no vision the people perish.” Peter Pauls, in his preface to the book Stories From Mennonite Life by Gerhard Lohrenz, com­ ments on this verse: “There can be no vi­ sion, no future, where there is no under­ standing of or respect for the past. The past is both our heritage and a part of our religion.” We shall again lift from the pages of his­ tory some matters which we hope will in­ spire us with new faith and zeal to press towards the goal. In the face of opposition and remon­ strance some one-third of the German­ speaking Mennonite population left Rus­ sia to begin a new home in North America. It might surprise us to learn that there were those who cautioned against emi­ gration; one was a pastor of the Evangeli­ cal (Moravian) Brethren who felt it was the Mennonites’ Christian duty to remain in Russia. As well, the terms of the alternative serv­ ice offered by the government — in for­ estry, marine and fire brigades — were very attractive {The Mennonite Brother­ hood in Russia 1789-1910}. Basically, it was not much different from what Canadian Mennonites accepted as alternative serv­

PAGE 14

ice in World War II. Why then did roughly 18,000 people leave Russia when their position on non-resistance was threat­ ened? Was the pastor correct who appealed to their Christian duty to stay and be a wit­ ness? Certainly it was their Christian duty to let their light shine in their Russian neigh­ bourhood. However, by Russian law the Mennonite church was forbidden to pros­ elytize. {Der Chortitzer Mennoniten, Mani­ fest Pt.IV #1 1788) Were Mennonites aware of this? Since it was a part of the Manifest, the church certainly must have been. The church had experienced this restric­ tion in Prussia where Mennonites had lived for some 250 years. They were not allowed to bring any outsiders into the church. If a Mennonite married a non-Mennonite they usually joined the non-Mennonite church (Lohrenz). Various reasons are given for the emigra­ tion of the 1870’s. The government move toward Russianization of the German colo­ nists was one factor. Another was that be­ cause of population increase many peo­ ple were landless. Land in Russia was hard to come by; in Canada land was given to the settlers. For Jakob T. Wiebe, who delivered the Festival Address {Fest Predigt) at the 75th commemoration Jubilee in 1949, it was strictly a matter of faith. He likened the call to emigrate to the call of God to Abraham in Genesis 12. “That was the command of the Lord to Abraham,” he stated, “and this also applies to our fathers and grandfathers in Russia ... The quest was for a land, a government where they and their descendants could freely live their faith.” Johann B. Toews (1865-1967) was con­ vinced that it was God’s leading. "... we as a whole were convinced that when our forefathers planned this exodus, leaving our comfortable homes and moving into a wild and unsettled country, it was God’s way; it was His leading in sending the del­ egates; the same as Moses did when he sent the twelve. Yes, we believe it was according to His will — the will of our Maker, Lord God” {Memoirs of Johann Barkman Toews, 1961, p. 12). The chief reason, the precipitating fac­ tor, behind the migration was the issue of militarism. Mennonites rejected all serv­ ice having the slightest bearing on milita­ rism or service to the crown. In the Privilegium it was asked that they and their

Johann B. Toews (1865-1967) was convinced that it was God’s lead­ ing. we as a whole were con­ vinced that when our forefathers planned this exodus, leaving our comfortable homes and moving into a wild and unsettled country, it was God’s way; it was His lead­ ing in sending the delegates; the same as Moses did when he sent the twelve. Yes, we believe it was according to His will — the will of our Maker, Lord God” {Memoirs of Johann Barkman Toews, 1961, P.12). descendants be freed from military serv­ ice. They were granted this freedom. Now the privilege was being altered, and many people moved. Who was right — those who left or those who stayed? In spite of the horrible trag­ edies that befell those who stayed, we should not pass judgment at this point. Very likely both groups did what under God they felt they should do. I agree that in some instances both faith and economics played a role in our migra­ tions. Be that as it may, I believe we can also see the hand of God guiding these movements. Mennonites are Wanderfolk, a wander­ ing people. When Dutch-German Menno­ nites came here, there were already Mennonites living in Canada; they had migrated from Pennsylvania as early as 1786. In the 1870s these Pennsylvanian Mennonites were in a great position to lend assistance to us. Then, when thousands fled Russia in the 192O’s, we were here to help them get settled. (This also happened in Paraguay when those fleeing Russia were assisted by earlier Mennonite immi­ grants.) We could also mention the 1948 Kleingemeinde emigration to Mexico and the resulting spread of the gospel in that region. The further migration of some Mennonites to Belize has opened doors for Christian service in that country. All this would lead us to agree with the words of Frank Epp writing in the Mennonite Reporter in the 1974 centen­ nial year, “Rare are the migrations that are all right or all wrong in all their aspects. We can therefore relax in our zeal about migrations and accept readily the coming and going as well as the staying. God has a way for His people wherever they may be.”

So we close off the emphasis of 1999 on the 125th anniversary of the coming of the first EMCers from Russia to Canada. We hope that readers have been challenged by the farsighted faith evidenced by the move our spiritual forebears made 125 years ago.

THE MESSENGER

QA^eddings REIMER - NEUFELD: Abe, son of Cornelius and Susanna Reimer, and Magie, daughter of Johan and Margaret Neufeld, all of Leamington, Ont., were married at the Leamington EMC on July 31,1999. Peter Reimer officiated. The couple is living in Leamington. REIMER - WIEBE: David, son of Cornelius and Susanna Reimer of Leamington, Ont., was married to Helen, daughter of Isaac and Anna Wiebe of Wheatley, Ont. The wedding took place on September 5, 1999, at the Leamington EMC, with Peter Reimer officiating. The couple lives in Wheatley. COSENS - PLETT: Dan, son of John and Brenda Cosens of Anola, Man., was married to Melissa, daughter of Lawrence and Marge Plett of Blumenort, Man. The wedding took place at the Blumenort EMC on August 28, 1999, with Trevor Esau officiating. The couple lives in Blumenort. KOOP - BUHLER: Stan, son of Art and Thelma Koop of Ste. Anne, Man., and Rhonda, daughter of Jacob and Betty Buhler of MacGregor, Man., were married on May 30, 1999, in MacGregor.

ELIZABETH K. DUECK 1902-1999 Our mother was born near Blumenort, Manitoba on March 17, 1902, to Jacob and Maria (Koop) Plett, the fourth youngest of eleven children. At sixteen she was already mourning the death of her mother and oldest sister in less than one month’s time. This was dur­ ing the 1918 flu epidemic. Her sister’s youngest child, a baby girl, was then raised by the rest of the Plett sisters in the paren­ tal home. They also helped their father considerably in his farming operations, as did the two brothers. In her late teens, mother yielded her life to the Lord Jesus and never looked back. She was baptized on her profession of faith, becoming a member of the Blumenort EMC (Kleine Gemeinde). On November 11,1923, she married Jacob K. Dueck of Rosenhoff, and the young cou­ ple lived with his parents for five or six months. Then they moved to their own homestead near McTavish, although their first home was just a granary. Farming was OCTOBER 20, 1999

Dale Doerksen officiated. The couple lives in Portage la Prairie. WIEBE - SAWATZKY: Frank, son of Abe and Margaret Wiebe of Vienna, Ont., was married to Margaret, daughter of Franz and Anna Sawatzky of Aylmer, Ont., with John Wall officiating. The couple is making their home in Aylmer. KROEKER - HAMM: Merle, son of Dennis and Janice Kroeker of Riverton, Man., and Loma, daughter of Walter and Helen Hamm of Winnipeg, Man., were married on May 8, 1999, in Winnipeg, Man., with Al Friesen officiating. The couple lives in Winnipeg.

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SCHMIDT - to Marvin and Heidi Schmidt of Asuncion, Paraguay, a daughter, Carla D’anne, on October 3, 1999. LUTZER - to Erwin and Tammy Lutzer of Landmark, Man., a son, Zackary TV, on April 24, 1999. WARKENTIN - to Paul and Wanda Warkentin of Landmark, Man., a daughter, Nicki Cameron, on May 30, 1999.

very difficult at first, since there were sev­ eral crop failures due to excessive rain­ fall. At the end of August, their modest new house was ready. Here they raised their family of eight children, four girls and four boys. A larger house was obviously needed, and became a reality in 1946. Mother was a very energetic woman; work was a part of her nature, and she taught it to her children as well. She was an avid gardener, with lots of vegetables, strawberries and flowers. She made beau­ tifully decorated tablecloths (for all the children), doilies, tea towels, bathrobes and doll chairs (for her granddaughters). She also liked to play games like Skipbo which, she claimed, sharpened the mind even in her late nineties. She took great joy in singing, music, fam­ ily gatherings, prayer, and the word of God. She prayed faithfully for the chil­ dren and grandchildren, and expressed her concern that all would meet her in heaven. Our Dad passed away quite suddenly in February, 1972, and Mom spent the rest of her life as a widow. In 1975 she and her youngest three daughters moved into a new house near her son Edwin’s place. Here she helped with the finishing work in the basement, actually handling a skill saw if required. Four years later she underwent major surgery for the removal of a malignant tu­ mour and her gallbladder. She recovered fairly well, as she did also after four flood evacuations. Her health did give way eventually, and she was hospitalized in late 1992, and then moved to the Eventide Home in Rosenort. Evacuated during the Flood of

PLETT - to Cameron and Kara Plett of Landmark, Man., a son, Dylan Tyler James, on June 15, 1999. BAKER - to Darren and Bev Baker of Anola, Man., a son, Brendan Richard, on April 26, 1999. WIEBE - to David and Denise Wiebe of Anola, Man., a son, Tyler Dallas, on May 29, 1999. SCHROEDER - to Don and Bonnie Schroeder of Anola, Man., a son, Daniel Martin, on July 5, 1999. WIEBE - to Frank and Margaret Wiebe of Aylmer, Ont., a son, Donovan Josiah, on August 17, 1999. SAWATZKY - to Jacob and Margie Sawatzky of Eden, Ont., a son, Braden Jacob, on September 10, 1999. SAWATZKY - to Frank and Anna Sawatzky of Springfield, Ont., a daughter. Jasmine Frances, on September 20, 1999. STREMPLER - to Dave and Nichole Strempler of Winnipeg, Man., a son, Nathan Joshua, on August 14, 1999. GEORGESON - to Betty-Anne and Jeff Georgeson of Winnipeg, Man., a son, Eric David, on March 9, 1999.

the Century in 1997, she was soon admit­ ted to the Red River Valley Lodge in Mor­ ris, where she was also lovingly cared for. Her health suffered a setback with an abdominal mass and she gradually weak­ ened until on October 1 she was put on morphine for pain. She passed away peacefully the following night with her two youngest daughters and her oldest grand­ daughter at her bedside. Rejoicing in spite of sorrow are all eight of her children: Elma and Levi Dueck (Mor­ ris), Helen and Jake Friesen (Mitchell), Leonard and Linda (Riverton), Edwin and Elsie (Rosenort), Wilbert and Lena (McTavish), Mary and Peter Krause (Win­ nipeg), Alfred and Marj (McTavish), and Norma and John Derksen (Winnipeg). She also leaves to mourn 21 grandchil­ dren and 26 great-grandchildren. Another 26 grandchildren were added through sec­ ond marriages. She is survived by her sis­ ter, Aganetha Warkentin of Rosenort, six sisters-in-law and two brothers-in-law. She was predeceased by her husband Jacob K. Dueck, son-in-law Cornie Friesen, grandson Leroy Dueck, and great grand­ daughter Erin Unger, as well as most of her siblings and in-laws. We wish to thank the nursing staff at the Lodge, as well as those who served at Eventide, for their care and compassion. We also wish to thank Dr. Fraser for sensi­ tive care of our Mother. We thank all of you dear friends who have shared in our bereavement. The funeral was held at the Rosenort EMC in October with Loewen Funeral Chapel in charge of arrangements. Her Family

PAGE 15

‘SMILE BACK!’

tasking in the Glow Henry Friesen I HAD THE incredible experience of a new baby this past sum­ would be no joy in such compulsive and, at best, totally anaemic mer. Truth to be told, it was incredible for my companion, Mary, services and concerns. 1 am well capable of taking care of my in ways that it could never be for me; nevertheless, we also son; indeed, it is my delight to do so. All 1 want from him is for shared joys that defied verbal description. him to drink the cup of life to the full. It never ceases to amaze me how the simple yet exuberant His joys are my joys. When he smiles at me, 1 ask nothing more smile of an uncomprehending infant can send such shivers up from him. 1 do not care that the excitement of his father looking and down the spine of a grown man. My son does not worry into his eyes causes him to flail his arms wildly in an exorbitant about how to please me, or how 1 care for — and about — him; expenditure of precious energy. Who cares about efficiency yet he, like his brothers before him, manages to provide me with and effectiveness? What better use of energy than to waste it in moments of the most genu­ raptures of connection with ine, unfettered pleasure his father? 1 love him. that 1 have known. By way of confession, the There are times when I seeds for this meditation place him in his little seat sprouted during a Sunday and put him on the floor service as 1 reflected on the beside me as 1 work on my joys of parenthood and the computer. He is happy for a model of the Father’s love. while, but his satisfied mur­ A scant few moments af­ murs turn to grunts of dis­ ter being moved by the content; then little wails sig­ simplicity of an infant’s un­ nal a definite desire for at­ inhibited ability to indulge tention. Frequently, when 1 in simple pleasures we turn around to see what he were into a celebration of wants, by the time 1 can see the Lord’s Supper. 1 found his face he is absolutely myself becoming philo­ beaming, sparkling, with the sophical and asking myself sheer pleasure of basking in about the nature of the the glow of his father’s at­ commemoration. What tention. You can imagine does the bread and the wine how that warms my soul. represent? What is its sig­ To a cultivated adult who nificance to us? What sig­ has learned so much about Henry Friesen and his wife, Mary, live in Brantford, Ontario. Members of the nificant distinctions are Morweena EMC, they currently are part of a Church of the Nazarene life and how to cope with congregation in Brantford. The Friesens have three sons. Josh, Zackary there between theories of life, such communication is and Nathan. (Mary took the picture.) transubstantiation and sym­ amazing. How is it that such bolism? a simple action on the part of an infant who has not yet learned And then 1 had to tell myself, Hold it right there! Why does to formulate words, or rational thoughts, can communicate such everything have to be so theological? Be still. Just remember. warmth? How can an infant who is unskilled in the “sophisti­ Just say thank you. Just smile. cated” ways of society, share such simple yet total joy? So today or tomorrow, and whenever you sense your Father Could it be that in not knowing he actually knows far more? turning to look at you with His eyes of love, smile. His love might How much of what we learn as we mature, in fact, obscures the be revealed in the sound of the wind mstling in the leaves of the simple joys and satisfactions of life more than uncovers or un­ trees, or the sight of those leaves in an annual sunset of autumn folds new and better ways of experiencing life? brilliance, or the babble of a brook, or in the words of a favourite How does God see me? How can 1 bring joy to the heart of scripture, or the touch of a loved one, or any of the myriad ways God? How would 1 feel if 1 discovered that my precious son with in which He reaches out to you every day. the ready and carefree smile was becoming obsessed with how Just remember to smile back. Nothing you can do could make to make me happy, or how to help me more effectively? There Him happier.

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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-ujord story and a photograph of yourself or suggestion for a story to the address below. PAGE 16

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