The Messenger September 6, 2000

Llt^E AT THE LAKE! -

* Prairie I Grove, - Man.: •

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Andrew Kaltech (centre back), assisted by Stuart Ferguson (far left), and Monica Koop (sitting), directed the ProTeens. Happy birthday, Monica!

Prairie Grove celebrated baptism on June 4. Kevin Funk and Sherry Lesack testified to the powerful working of God in their lives. Pastoral couple Darnell and Emily Plett stands with them.

EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE VOLUME 38 NUMBER 15 SEPTEMBER 6, 2000

Messenger tea

EDITOR Terry M. Smith

A country boy, a heathen? CERTAIN WORDS make me uncomfortable. Heathen is one, partly because I have a farm­ ing background on both sides of my family tree. At first, heathen, like pagan, referred to a country dweller. In Jewish circles in Jesus’ time there were the amme-ha-arez, the peo­ ple of the land. In each case, however, a de­ scription of living in the country became a moral judgement; country dwellers were looked down on, viewed as inferior. To a country boy like me, that stings! Heathen in the King James Version is of­ ten translated in current Bible versions as gentiles. Gentiles refer to the nations, people beyond Israel. It was useful to refer to nations lacking a clear understanding of God through Israel (and ultimately in Jesus). When those making the judgement start to congratulate themselves, however, the term turns sour. Today, heathen is a caustic term that burns rather than builds bridges. In parts of Cana­ dian society, the Christian Church is rebuild­ ing its credibility. Involved in that challenge, it’s helpful for us to watch our language. We stand for our Christian truth partly by being careful in how we express it. Living and shar­ ing the Good News of Christ goes beyond political correctness. How shall we, for instance, view Roman Catholics? EMCers vary in their views (partly because, like us, there are devout and nomi­ nal members and even the devoted express their faith in various ways). For my way of thinking “separated brothers and sisters” is useful. The EMC has historic differences with the sixteenth-century Roman Catholic Church and these remain important. Still, the Catho­ lic Church is more diverse today than it was in the sixteenth century. While major con­ cerns remain valid, we can’t dismiss a com­ plex church involving the varied spiritual his­ tories of so many people. Some Anabaptists seem anxious to em­ phasize that we are “neither Protestant nor Catholic”; what’s less talked about is that we’re indebted to both Catholics and other Protestants. We have much in common. Menno Simons and other early Anabaptist leaders drew upon good learning from the Roman Catholic Church and other reformPAGE 2

ers. It helped them to be better reformers as they responded to bad learning. Though others know more about this, how shall the EMC relate toward conservative, tra­ ditional members of the Mennonite church in Canada and elsewhere? I suggest, with respect. We must be cautious about descrip­ tions that can disturb, be inappropriate, and serve little or no positive purpose. Few movements within the Christian church are simple; Mennonite history is com­ plex. In all movements there are events and developments to be commended or con­ cerned about, depending which side of the fence we are on. We are to be careful how we speak, whatever our position under the Mennonite umbrella. We are to seek to build bridges toward recognizing and enriching a common faithful devotion to Christ. An on-going challenge is to relate to spir­ itual histories and cultures with sensitivity. As an example, the cultural and religious histo­ ries of Scottish, English, Irish, and Welsh peo­ ple are complex; even the phrase British Isles poses a modern challenge. (1 recall what Peter Marshall, the Scotsman who became chaplain to the U.S. Senate, said to a man who asked if he was an Englishman: “Man — no! Wud ye insult me richt ta my face?”) Church history is complex. While some Anabaptists are less familiar with it, the Prot­ estant Reformation went beyond the Neth­ erlands, Germany, and Switzerland. Many factors combine so that the state of the Chris­ tian Church in Canada is complicated today. Does concern about language reduce peo­ ple’s need for forgiveness, direction, and hope through Christ? No. Rather, our goal is to effectively share what is most important: Christ has a rightful claim on every man, woman, and child on this planet. The nations are His. As a church formed from a small part of the nations, the EMC is to humbly bow before Him and call others to do the same. The Moravian church once had one mis­ sionary for each ten members. By that stand­ ard, our EMC missionary force needs to grow. As we go, let’s recall Paul’s inspired counsel: “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone” (Col. 4:6). Terry M. Smith

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Rebecca Buhler THE MESSENGER is the publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. It is available to the general public. Its purpose is to inform, instruct and inspire: inform concerning events and activities in the denomination; instruct in god­ liness and victorious living: inspire to earnestly contend for the faith. Letters, articles, photos and poems are welcomed. Unpub­ lished material is not returned except by request. The views and opinions expressed by the writers are their own and do not necessarily represent the posi­ tion of the Conference. THE MESSENGER is pub­ lished twice a month (once a month in July and August) by the Board of Church Ministries of the Evangelical Mennonite Confer­ ence, 440 Main Street, Steinbach, Manitoba. Subscriptions: $12.00 per year (Manitoba residents add 7% PST, total: $12.84). Sub­ scriptions are voluntary and op­ tional to people within or outside of the EMC. Members and ad­ herents pay through their church. THE MESSENGER is a member of Meetinghouse and Canadian Church Press. Second-class postage paid at Steinbach, Manitoba. Publications Mail Registration No. 09914 Mailing information: All correspondence, including undelivered copies, change of address and new subscriptions, should be addressed to; The Messenger RO. Box 1268 Steinbach, Manitoba ROA 2A0 Phone: 204-326-6401 Fax: 204-326-1613 Note new E-mail address: emcmessenger@mts.net

Cover: Jolyn Braun is Prairie Grove’s reporter. MESSENGER SCHEDULE: No. 17 - October 4 (copy due Sept. 22) No. 18 - October 18 (copy due Oct. 6)

THE MESSENGER

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What does it mean for Christ to be Head of the Body?

Part two of three (condensed)

Christ above all! Dr. T. Y Thomas THE CONVENTION theme Christ Through Us to Others is being developed from Colossians chapter one. This young church planted by Paul’s associate, Epaphras, faced false teachings. It was often believed in the Greco-Roman world that many divine beings controlled the unpredictable forces that caused misfortune, sickness, tragedy and death. An individual’s peace and salvation depended on being right with these supernatural powers. Trying to fit Jesus into this scheme, teachers (claiming to be super-Christians with special information) said that He was a redeemer outranked by other spiritual beings. Christ was inadequate for the Christian life and salvation.

Christ Jesus, the only Master! The great apostle Paul was spiritually concerned and so passionately jealous about the uniqueness of the person and work of Christ that he strikes back with God’s truth. His only Master is Christ Jesus the Lord (Col. 1:2). In Colossians 1:15-20 he invites Christians to worship Christ by singing a hymn — a summary of Christian orthodoxy and the loftiest statement in Scripture of the person and work of Christ. Paul’s first step to solve problems in Colossae was to praise God. When Christians and congregations face difficulties, we need to gain a new perspective through praise to Christ. Paul and Silas sang and prayed in a Philippian jail (Acts 16). Praise directs the Christian’s attention to the goodness and power of God; that’s a viewpoint needed to solve problems in our life and church. In Col. 1:18-20 Christ is presented as the Lord of the Church — Christ above us. That Christ is above all. Lord of the universe, raises a question: Is Christ responsible for the evil in the world? Paul says no. Sin is present, but this is not what God wanted. Sin is humanity’s rebellion against the Lord of the universe. In response, Christ chose to enter our situation in the incarnation to deliver us from

Dr. TV Thomas is the director of the Centre for Evangelism and World Mission, Regina, Saskatchewan. This message is condensed from written material provided by him. (Taped messages can be ordered from the Conference office — S5 for the three-tape set, including postage.)

SEPTEMBER 6, 2000

bondage to sin and death. By His life and death Christ opened the way for a new creation, the Church. Pfeople enslaved by sin can now be in the fellowship of the redeemed. Christ did more than open the way for persons to be saved from sin; in love He chose to establish an enduring relationship with those who trust Him. How is Christ’s lordship in the Church expressed? The apostle uses three titles to do so — head, beginning and first-born.

Christ, the head of the body Church refers to the Body of Christ, the common Bible image for the Church (Eph. 4:12, 15; Rom. 12:4-5; 1 Cor. 12). The Church refers to people who trust in Jesus Christ as their Savior. Every believer is a member of the Body of Christ — a spiritual, not an ecclesiastical, organization. Paul illustrates how the Body of Christ is to function under His headship. Christ is supreme leader of the church. The head is the most important body part because it contains the brain that directs the body, f^ul is saying that Christ is the supreme, undisputed Lord of the Church, who directs and controls its activities. Paul says that Christ is the Source of Life of the Church. Jesus is the source of spiritual life, individually and corporately — just as He is the Lord of the universe and the source of physical life. Christ is the One who accomplishes through the Church. As Head, Jesus accomplishes His will as He works through the Body. Christ is the Guarantor of Spiritual Unity. Just as He holds together the physical universe (1:16), Jesus spiritually unifies the Church, His Body. Spiritual unity is not man-made or designed by committee. Christ ensures spiritual unity between believers. Christ’s prayer in John 17 was not for us to create unity, but to express that unity in love and truth. Understanding the headship of Christ, what is our responsibility? Believers are to evaluate their function within the Body. Are you fulfilling God’s purpose, using your spiritual gifts for the Body’s growth? Each believer has a spiritual gift to edify the Body, yet about 85% of adult believers don’t know their spiritual gifts — a tragic loss for the Kingdom. Spiritual gifts are to be discovered and used; they should dictate the primary areas of ministry we are involved in. When we don’t use our spiritual gifts, we will be bored and not see our significance, and we will be envious because God uses others. Every local church needs to examine how it functions, to fulfill their calling to be more than a community institution. Every EMC congregation needs to ask how it fits into God’s agenda. 3

Christ, the beginning Of what is Christ the beginning? Beginning could mean supremacy in rank, priority in time or initiative in creativity. All apply to Christ, but here Paul emphasizes His initiative in creativity. It is Christ who initiated the Church — not a committee, the disciples, or early church fathers. Christ is the origin and the source of the Church’s life. This sounds like an ordinary statement. What is the big deal, anyway? That isn’t how the early Christians saw it. Christ’s coming made a radical difference in their personal and social life. It was awesome what God accomplished through Christ on the cross for humankind. Individuals could experience a life that never existed before, called eternal life, and be part of a new fellowship. When visiting new Christians in China, Nepal or Peru, this is more evident. They have not lost the wonder of being born again and they cannot have enough Christian fellowship. Christ, the firstborn Paul used the term first-born in verse 15 to point toward the supreme rank or honour that Jesus holds over creation. In verse 18, Christ is called the first-born from the dead, with emphasis on priority of time. What does it mean? Jesus wasn’t the first person to rise from the dead; the Bible lists other individuals brought back to life (1 Kings 17:17-24; Mark 5:35-43; John 11:38-44). Christ was the first-born from the dead not because he experienced death, but because He rose never to die. By His resurrection, Christ defeated and conquered death. That Christ is the First-born implies that others will follow. The resurrection of Jesus guarantees the spiritual and physical resurrection of all believers. Our future resurrection is possible because of His; this is why Paul declares the eternal significance of Christ’s resurrection in 1 Corinthians 15:17. As the first-born from the dead Christ imparts supernatural, eternal life. Paul says it was God the Father’s clear purpose for His Son (1:18) Zo have first place in everything. Christ must be pre-eminent, absolutely supreme. The apostle later emphasizes in Colossians 3:11 Christ is all, and in all. Lord, because of incarnation Why is Christ the Lord of the universe and the Church? The apostle Paul gives two reasons (1:19-20). First, it’s because of His incarnation (Col. 1:19). For it was the Father’s good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him. This is a brief, loaded statement to meet the Colossians’ needs. Fullness meant being filled without any gap. Dwell suggests a permanent residence, not a temporary visit. Fullness was a word used by the false teachers, but Paul turned it against them. Christ is the sum total of the divine powers and attributes of God. In Christ dwells the fullness of God as deity. It’s correct to declare Christ is God. It was heresy to make Christ less than God, as the false teachers were doing. The false teachers defined fullness differently. In their scheme they called many beings divine. They reduced PAGE 4

Christ to part of a hierarchy of hostile powers filling space between God and humankind. Paul counters this. Christ is not one of many divine beings; He is the only mediator between God and humankind. In Him resides permanently all divine powers and attributes, not part or most but all of deity. Christ is the only way to God and the door of salvation is open for anyone who trusts in Him. There are no other barriers or powers to overcome. This is possible because of the incarnation of Christ — God came in the flesh (John 1:14). Paul says in Col. 2:9-10 in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form, and in Him you have been made complete, and He is the head over all rule and authority. Hebrews 2:14-15 says. Since then the children share in flesh and blood. He Himself likewise also partook of the same, that through death He might render powerless him who had the power of death, that is, the devil; and might deliver those who through fear of death were subject to slavery all their lives. In Paul’s day, fullness described a warship supplied and ready for battle; our Lord Jesus Christ is fully equipped to do what is humanly impossible — to bring together God and humankind. He can save anyone who repents and trusts in Him. Lord, because of reconciliation Second, it is because of Christ’s reconciling work. Col. 1:20 says through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross; through Him, / say, whether things on earth or things in heaven. To reconcile means to heal a relationship, to change from enmity to friendship. Paul is the only New Testament writer to apply reconciliation to God’s work for humankind in Christ. Paul never wrote of God being reconciled to humankind; it is always we who need to be reconciled with Him. God cannot be reconciled because He didn’t separate from us; we separated from Him. Ephesians 2 describes our sinful state, but says God took the initiative to reconcile us to Himself and establish the peace agreement. Paul said in Romans, But God demonstrated His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him. For if while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life (Rom. 5:8-10). Our hostility to God is never greater than His love for us! How was reconciliation and peace established? It was through the blood of His cross (Col. 1:20). Jesus Christ suffered and died on the cross to reconcile sinful humanity to a holy God. Hebrews 9:22 says that without shedding of blood there is no forgiveness. When sinners are personally reconciled with God, alienation and hostility toward God is changed to a loving and trusting fellowship. In verse 20 that reconciliation extends to the universe. All the disorder and disharmony that human sin brought THE MESSENGER

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into the universe will be finally abolished. What did the reconciling work of Christ mean to the Colossians? It meant God had changed their lives. The Lord of the Universe and of the Church became their Lord. Christ was above them.

We can be grateful because of Christ’s incarnation and reconciling work on the cross for us. God has removed our alienation, loneliness, hostility, fear, and self­ destructive behaviors. We are now members of His Body and Christ is our Lord. He is Christ above us.

Protest in 1688

The noti^so^Qiuieit in the land. J. Daryl Byler

observed that Pennsylvania is rightly OFTEN WE urge Mennonites to contact their elected a place for liberty of conscience. They said it should also officials about pressing peace and justice issues. be a place for liberty of the body. They noted that in Europe Sometimes we are asked whether such contacts make many are oppressed for conscience-sake but in any difference. Pennsylvania many are oppressed because of their skin Does it matter if Mennonites express concerns about color. sanctions in Iraq? About the death penalty? About debt Marital fidelity. Mennonites asserted that our faith calls relief for poor countries? About U.S. military aid to us not to commit adultery. But with slavery, they Columbia? About gun violence in our own country? About immigration policies? contended, “some commit adultery in others, separating wives from their husbands, and giving them to others.” Is it a waste of time to dabble in the public policy arena? A poor public witness. They argued that it would harm Our history suggests otherwise. Mennonites have often the reputation of Quakers and keep others from coming been called “the Quiet in the Land” - die Stillen im Lande. to the new colony. It will be a poor witness in Europe when This is not the full picture. From their earliest days in the United States, some Mennonites have lifted their folks hear that “the Quakers do here handle men as they handle there the cattle.” voices when critical peace and justice issues were at stake. / \ An appeal to non-violence. With this If the slaves \ argument, Mennonites appealed to a core In The Tree of Liberty, Nicholas N. Kittrie and / Eldon D. Wedlock, Jr. write that, in 1688, / \ Quaker belief. The use of force will be revolt, will you Germantown Mennonites were the first group / necessary to maintain slavery, challenged "take the sword the Mennonite leaders. If the slaves revolt, to publicly protest the practice of slavery in the United States, arguing that it is “inhuman will you “take the sword at hand and war at hand and war / against the slaves?” and contrary to Christian principles.” \ William Penn’s colony was founded as a \ / This early public witness stands as a against the haven for oppressed Quakers. Indeed, \ / reminder that clear, persistent and biblicallyPennsylvania was broadly perceived as a place \ / rooted advocacy does make a difference. slaves?" tolerant of national, ethnic and religious diversity. Quakers became leaders in the movement to Yet, the law of Pennsylvania required that slaves abolish slavery, perhaps in large part due to the submit to their masters. persuasive voice of their Mennonite friends. Germantown Mennonites made the moral case for Like the Pennsylvania forebears, Mennonites today do breaking this law in defense of one’s freedom. In a letter well to root their witness in the biblical themes of justice drafted to Quaker leaders, they stated six reasons why and nonviolent peacemaking. As with the gross inhumanity they opposed slavery - or traffic of men-body, as they of slavery, change does not always come quickly, but called it then. Their reasons were as sophisticated as they change will come. Paul admonished the early church to “aspire to live were simple: quietly, to mind your own affairs, and to work with your The Golden Rule. “Would any of us want to be treated this way,” they asked, “to be sold or made a slave for all hands...” (1 Thessalonians 4:11). But living quietly does the time of his life?” They argued that the biblical not mean silently ignoring injustice. admonition to do unto others as we would want them to Perhaps Mennonites will never be loud in the land but do to us should apply to all, regardless of age, descent or we would do well to continue to find a clear and bold color. voice at the right times. Our faith tradition calls us to do Moral equivalence. Early Mennonites asserted that so, and it matters much to our sisters and brothers around there is no difference between those who steal or rob the world. people, and those who buy or purchase people. Morally, J. Daryl Byler directs the MCC U.S. Washington office. both behaviors are equally repugnant. All oppression is wrong. Germantown Mennonites SEPTEMBER 6, 2000

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SEette/is FAITH SHOULD NOT EVAPORATE I have read Dr. T.V. Thomas’ article, “Christ Above All!” in the August 26, 2000 Messenger. While 1 confess to several points of disagreement with Dr. Thomas, there is one matter in particular which 1 would like to address. Dr. Thomas links a faith in Christ to an acceptance of some sort of literal creationism. He says that to believe in the evolution of life on Earth is to reject Christ. This is a position which 1 cannot accept. It is a position which undermines the cred­ ibility of Christians and Christianity. Without debating the issue exhaustively, 1 think 1 can say with some confidence there is overwhelming physical evidence that our planet has changed over time, and that life on Earth has changed as well. It is equally apparent from the physical evi­ dence around us, that these changes have taken place over the course of many mil­ lions of years. The process of evolution, or any other natural process around us, should not work to undermine our faith in Christ. It is dangerous to base our faith on our present understanding of any science. After all, our ancestors viewed thunder and lightening as the direct work of God. We now view weather as a natural phenomenon gov­ erned by complex but understandable principles. Likewise, our ancestors viewed various illnesses as having a component of divine punishment or demonic posses­ sion. We now view these disorders as hav­ ing a natural, and not supernatural, expla­ nation. Likewise, it is reasonable for the Chris­ tian to believe that the process of evolu­ tion is a natural one, ultimately put in place by the Almighty. To deny the evidence of the world around us is to deny the intel­ lect given to us by God. It is dangerous and foolhardy to link our faith to some present understanding of paleontology. If it can be proven (as it has been) that life has existed for millions of years, and that it has evolved during that time, does our faith in Christ evaporate? According to Dr. Thomas, it certainly would. 1 would say that it certainly should not. Randy Brandt Steinbach, Man.

Region 7 Fall Worship Event

Crestview Fellowship 271 Hamilton Ave., Winnipeg, Man.

Sunday, October 22, 7 p.m. PAGE 6

Betty Koop La Crete, Alberta

THE UNNAMED WOMAN IT WAS a cold January day in 1527. In fact, it was the day the church celebrated Epiphany, the Festival of the Three Kings. Celebration, though, was far from this mother’s mind that day. As she and her son stood on the banks of the Limmat River in Zurich, Switzer­ land, her heart seemed as bleak as the cold, dark current flowing by their feet. She had another son. Looking up, she saw him being escorted by two guards to a boat on the other side of the river. She cried to God for strength to bear what lay ahead for both her son and herself. Her son’s name was Felix and he bore his father’s surname even though his par­ ents were not married. His father, John, was a high-ranking priest at the Grossmuentster Cathedral and, by vows, was not free to marry. However, it appears that this type of union was an accepted part of latter medieval society, and John provided a house for his “wife” and sons not far from the Limmat River. Felix was a studious young fellow. He thrived on subjects like Latin, Greek and Hebrew. When he returned to Zurich from the University of Paris, his inquiring mind attracted him to the great reformer, Ulrich Zwingli. Felix delighted in studying the scrip­ tures and soon began to ask difficult ques­ tions; Which is the right church? Will a church founded on the Word need to rec­ ognize that different people will interpret it differently? In spite of differences, should not followers of Christ still work together and live together? Felix’s mother remembered the small group that had regularly met in her home, searching the Scriptures. She recalled the excitement that had seemed to reverber­ ate through her home the night these men had come to the conclusion that baptism was a sign of the individual believer’s faith in Christ. Her simple water jug had be­ come an instrument of “reform” as one man baptized another, and he in turn, baptized the rest, including her son. A third Protestant movement, later known as the Anabaptist movement, was born. This led to what the established Reform (Protestant) Church felt was open defi­ ance of authority, since church and state were closely united at that time. Felix and his friends were tried and imprisoned several times. His mother remembered one day in

particular. It seemed she had just seen him swallowed by that dreadful prison’s maw, when he was back at her door, breathless, in a hurry. He had escaped, though unwillingly. Only at his fellow pris­ oners’ insistence did he flee so he could help them. Quickly, Felix gathered ropes and other equipment and returned to help them escape. Today, however, it seemed there would be no miraculous escape. Her dear son, only 27 years old, had been sentenced to death. The indictment read in part: “...he confessed having said that he wanted to gather those who wanted to accept Christ and follow Him, and unite himself with them through baptism, and let the rest live according to their faith, so that he and his followers separated themselves... and were about to raise up a sect of their own under the guise of a Christian meeting...” (Mennonite Encyclopedia, p. 473). Her heart warmed as she heard Felix’s confident voice echoing across the wa­ ter. He was praising God, telling the crowd that he was ready to die for his new-found faith! She watched as he was rowed out to an open-walled fishing hut in the middle of the river. Then he noticed her. She called out to him, strongly encouraging him to remain true and steadfast. With strength from God, she had become will­ ing to give him up for the faith they shared. That joy and freedom was something that even death could not destroy. As Felbc sang in Latin, commending his spirit into God’s keeping, the waves closed over his bound body. Felix Manz was the first martyr of the Anabaptist movement. I cannot imagine his mother’s feelings as she watched her son die. Surely one of the greatest sorrows a mother can ex­ perience is the death of a child. Yet this woman, who does not even have a name in the history books, is an inspiration to us all. We do not admire the fact that she was an unmarried mother and appears to have chosen that lifestyle. Or was she free to choose? Would a young girl be able to say “no” to a highly-placed priest who had authority over her? However, there are things 1 admire about her. She rose to the challenge of raising Felix alone. She seems to have taught him to search, to find answers to important life questions. Being a single mother must often be a lonely life, with no partner to share in rais­ ing the child. But the mother of Felix seems to have found an answer to her loneliness through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. In this way, she became part of a caring, interdependent family. Do our churches exemplify such a car­ ing family life?

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Ukrainians are able people! RATHER THAN analyze the problems of Ukraine and what the West can do to help, I suggest that, as Western churches and fellow believers, we need most to under­ stand the people; then, we can both give financially and pray more effectively. From our experience, it’s interesting and rewarding to examine the contrasts of faith and culture between Canada and the Ukraine. Since my wife, Corrina, and 1 began our assignment with MCC about two and a half years ago in Makeekva, Ukraine, our understandings of people and country have greatly changed. Much of our initial criticism and ethnocentrism has been rightly challenged, even if it was unvoiced. Though we came ready to teach, help, and change, local Christians humbled us by having more to teach and being more resourceful than we thought. It’s precisely this mutual exchange of ideas, relationship building, and a willingness to learn which gives us progress in both our work and individual lives. Although we could reflect on experi­ ences and lessons, 1 want to discuss the essence of the local Ukrainian believer. It’s no secret that the Ukrainian economy is in a very difficult position; there is much unemployment, many social problems and no clear direction. Young people, par­ ticularly, view their future with little hope. Even knowing the locals well — living and working with them — we can only pretend to imagine the burden they deal with daily. We have only partly experi­ enced this for ourselves. We have found, however, that the essence of Ukrainian life is found in each daily trial and how peo­ ple attempt to cope. I’m amazed at the courage, faith and persistence of the local Baptist churches. They rely strongly on prayer, and trust and depend on God to supply their daily needs. Their simplicity and healthy desire for heaven to come quickly is refreshing for us. It seems like we, as Westerners, had lost to some degree these key elements of faith. In Canada, when we are sick, for the most part we fall back on a decent health care system. Out of work, we seek help from our country’s social support services. In need of support, we go to our families or churches. To begin a charity or outreach program, we get the backing (or, at least, not the opposition) of our government. In the Ukraine, these are not taken for granted. Systems, structures, and securi­ ties, which give us a sense of stability in the West, are almost nonexistant here. To whom are Ukrainians to bring their prob­ lems to be solved? We’ve found that it hardly takes a moment when, working SEPTEMBER 6, 2000

At summer camp 1999, the kids were divided into eight teams and they picked which country to represent. Throughout the three weeks, they played games for points. Israel won and received the medals during closing ceremonies. Sadly, Canada placed last.

through problems big or small, a person says, “It is time to pray about it.” Who among us doubts that we won’t be able to provide for our basic needs? For some Ukrainians, this is a real struggle; liv­ ing day by day with few guarantees is typi­ cal for a family. When a local believer prays, “Give us this day our daily bread”, they actually mean it. Fortunately, many Christians who work in religious service organizations, such as the shelter where we work, get some funding from Western churches. However, there are times when a worker hasn’t been paid for four months and must provide somehow for their family. One’s faith, patience, and trust in God’s provision are regularly tested within this community; here, an extreme reliance on God becomes real. Because of the eco­ nomic situation of most people, the op­ portunities and openness for social work and evangelism are tremendous, even years after the collapse of the Soviet Un­ ion. Still, pressing needs of Ukrainian churches and religious organizations re­ main — overcoming unlimited, unclear government regulations; finances; and (to a degree) a lack of experience or direc­ tion in leadership. Generally, though, where there’s a lack of finances and ex­ pertise, there is resourcefulness; where there’s a lack of numbers, there’s a sense of community among believers; and where there is any need, there remains a constant hope and faith in the power of prayer. Above all, we have learned that Ukrain­ ians are an able people. They’ve come a long way, overcoming amazing obstacles in the past few years. A politician or an economist might find little good news

lately in Ukraine, but for the church, many very exciting things are happening here. There are many clear signs of growth. Peo­ ple have spiritual strengths that we have benefited from and relearned from. What is our challenge? If you have a heart or concern for a distant country, par­ ticularly the Ukraine, pray and give intelli­ gently. Try to know and maintain contact with a foreigner or a recent immigrant. Share with them and learn from each other the ways in which God can help us cope with the daily trials in different coun­ tries and cultures. Cameron Kroeker

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Corrina and Cameron Kroeker (Braeside) began serving as MCC volunteers in Makeekva, Ukraine, in November 1997. They are developing children's shelter programs. Cam has a social work degree and Corrina has an education degree. Their term ends in November. 7

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Gerald Reimer Conference Youth Minister e-mail:enicger@nits.net

BILLY GRAHAM, AMSTERDAM 2000, AND YOU AFTER NEARLY sixty years in the minis­ try, having preached to an estimated 210 million people in more than 185 countries and territories, Billy Graham is passing on the torch of world evangelism to other servants of the Lord. When Billy Graham made a decision to follow Christ at the age of 16, it would seem like a divine appointment that fel­ low evangelist Mordecai Ham led him to the Lord. Since that time, the history and direction of the world has been moved because of the dedication and commit­ ment of this wonderful evangelist, preacher and teacher. Now at Amsterdam 2000, supposedly the last public gathering to be hosted by Mr. Graham - who turns 82 this fall — other faithful servants from around the globe are taking up the challenge with re­ newed enthusiasm to proclaim the gos­ pel message to their respective country­ men (check the Amsterdam 2000 website). People such as J.l. Packer, Ravi Zacharias, Bill Bright, Franklin Graham, and Luis Palau are part of the leading

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Radio Mensajero was part of Jesus March 2000.

PARAGUAY MARCH FOR JESUS 2000 On a beautiful, June 10 morning, 800 to 1000 Christians marched along the main streets of Caaguazu - two to three times as many people as in past years. The march started around 9:30 at Caaguazu’s central plaza, with flags, bal­ loons, signs, singing, sharing and music. Curious people looked out of their shops at a peaceful, positive march - in contrast to the violent, negative demonstrations and turmoil of past months. The march ended PAGES

force calling Christians to be obedient servants, accountable regarding the treas­ ure we carry in jars of clay. So where does that leave you and me? Yes, we are members of the body of Christ, but somehow we may feel small and insignificant compared to the likes of Billy Graham. What part are we to play in the history of the Christian faith? How are we to reach our neighbour, never mind the world? What do we make of this gen­ eration and these days when things are constantly changing? As Ravi Zacharias puts it, we need to proclaim a message that is not only heard but also seen. We need a proclamation that is not merely argued but also felt. We must rescue not only the ends of the Gos­ pel but also the means, recovering the power of language. Gipsy Smith once said: There are five Gospels; Matthew, Mark, Luke, John and the Christian. And some people will never read the first four. Ravi goes on to say that we should not be afraid of trying to understand the times, because if we do not understand them, we will not be understood ourselves. This takes effort on our part, but is the sacri­ fice not worth seeing others come to a personal relationship with Jesus? TV Thomas challenged the youth at the EMC annual convention to be, first of all, the music that attracts people and then the lyrics that proclaim the message. What he meant is, if people do not see us model a consistent testimony and life­ style, they will certainly not be interested

at about 12:30 p.m. at a different plaza. There were singing groups, preaching, and praying for the country and its authorities. Radio Mensajero had promoted the event. The Association of Pastors of Caaguazu organized it. William and Lucila Candia, Berthold and Lilly Friesen and our family represented Radio Mensajero and met many of our listeners. We gave reports and cell phone interviews to our station in Tres Palmas and to ALAS (Spanish Chris­ tian satellite service in Quito, Ecuador). We met young men who had travelled 60 kilometres on bicycles over rough roads. Another group got up at 3:00 a.m., walked a while, got a ride with a tractor for a few hours, boarded a bus and made it to the march. Despite the cool morning, many people came on open trucks. Many wanted to see the faces of the Mensajero announcers. Later we heard of others who wanted to be there, but had followed the event by radio. They felt blessed to pray along with us. To God be the glory! Chris Kroeker

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in the gospel we share. We need to live with integrity. Only then will people be open to hear what we have to say. There are millions who have not heard the gospel message of hope and cleans­ ing through the blood of Jesus Christ, and yet the church seems to be struggling to change lives. God cries out. Whom shall I send? Who will go for me? In Isaiah 6 we see how Isaiah acknowledged the sin in his life and responded to the call of God. Having reached an understanding of the cleansing he had received through the blood of Christ, he was able to act upon his knowledge. He responded with a passionate yes, even though his message would fall on deaf ears. He asked God for how long he was to preach the message of salvation, and God told him. For the rest of your life, because I have called you to this minis­ try. The fact that people did not listen to the message was not Isaiah’s problem God wanted him to remain faithful to his call. As long as God gives us opportunity to share our faith, we need to do so, with humility and passion to see lives changed by God’s power. Be encouraged that although the likes of Billy Graham are slowing down, you and 1 are still the most effective ones to reach our families and neighbours for Christ. Pray that God would place inside of you the same passion that was in the heart of Isaiah and Billy Graham, to do the will of our Father in Heaven.

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William Candia provided live coverage of the march from a plaza in Caaguazu.

Chris and Revita Kroeker minister in Paraguay through Radio Mensajero. THE MESSENGER

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STATEMENTS OF COMMITMENT Steinbach, Man.: Sunday, July 9 saw a parent/child dedi­ cation ceremony take place in our church. Five couples decided that they would share with the church their commitment that they will be witnesses for Christ at home in their families. The following Sunday, July 16, Clara Toews and her daughter Joanne Toews were accepted into our fellowship on the basis of their testimonies of faith. David K. Schellenberg

Our July 9 parent/child dedication was conducted by pastor Arden Thiessen. Participants were Chad and Arlene Tkachuk, with twins Zachary Dylan and Braydon Kristopher; Leonard and Christine Dueck with Nicxon Benjamin and Rebecca Joy Noel; Jake and Tina Flores with Cecilia Celena; and Gerald and Heather Toews with Ethan Quinn Esau Toews (Darren and Andrea Reimer with Emma Rachel could not be present).

DEDICATION, ORDINATION AND MEMBERSHIP Ridgewood, Man.: The morning of May 7, parents dedicated themselves to raise their children for God. Pastor Travis Thiessen spoke on the theme Your Children will be Mighty in the Land. That same evening our church or­ dained a new minister. Gord and Laura Penner have risen to accept this new challenge in their lives. On May 28, we had baptism and membership transfer. Sara Reimer transferred membership and Tracee Plett, Ruby Loewen and Harry Reimer were baptized. Julie Friesen

Gord and Laura Penner (kneeling) were ordained May 7. Bill and Anna Penner, Don and Minna Thiessen, Emily Unger, Sharon and Travis Thiessen, and pastor Ralph Unger pray over them.

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Many parents came forward with their children on May 7 to commit before the church that they would raise them to love the Lord.

SEPTEMBER 6, 2000

Ridgewood baptismal and membership candidates on May 28: (front) Sara Reimer, Tracee Plett, Ruby Loewen and Harry Reimer (middle back). Pastors Ralph Unger and Travis Thiessen stand with them.

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BAPTISM, RETREAT, WEDDINGS Pansy, Man.: Pansy held a baptism April 9, pastor Ben Unger’s first such service here. Baptized were Tyler Braun, Chris Wiebe, Wes Fehr, Lycrecia Braun, Laurie Wiebe, and Luella Doerksen. Supporting church family, friends and relatives filled the chapel. Glory Road quartet and the church’s praise and wor­ ship team ministered in music. A com­ munion service followed that evening. It was a wonderful day of fellowship. Mike Braun and Trish Gagne united in marriage June 17. They had a wonderful wedding in the Grunthal gravel pits; it was a surprise to see the pits decorated so beautifully. We had a week of rain, but the Lord blessed them with sunshine. Offici­ ating was Leonard Barkman, a pastor from Copeland, Kansas. Thank you, Leonard and Betty. We had a delightful day. May the Lord bless you, Mike and Trish, in your journey together. Pansy Chapel had their annual youth retreat July 7-9, with 18 youth attending. A four-hour hike at Caribou Lake challenged them. Rick Penner was the weekend speaker. He spoke on The Wide and the Narrow Path, and the Four Spiritual Laws, focusing on the two greatest command­ ments (found in Mark 12:30-31). The youth had an exciting weekend, sharing lunch with uninvited animal friends. Mosquitoes were not a big prob­ lem, although perhaps the youth were too busy to notice. Among their other activi­ ties were hiking, swimming, devotionals, fishing and rafting. A special thanks goes to Dylan and Sheila Barkman, Tyler Braun and Rick Penner for adventuring with the youth. Great job! Congratulations go to Lowell Friesen and Pam Loeppky on their engagement; an August wedding is planned. Congratu­ lations go to Audra Falk and Jason Wyryha, who plan to wed in August. May God’s blessing be upon both these couples. This year we had graduates from Green Valley high school: Kevin Funk, Lycrecia Braun and Chris Wiebe. We pray that they will follow the Lord’s leading in their lives. Betty Anne Braun

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Baptized at Pansy Chapel on April 9 were (back) Tyler Braun, Chris Wiebe, Wes Fehr, (front) Lycrecia Braun, Laurie Wiebe, and Luella Doerksen. Pastor Ben Unger stands with them. PAGE 10

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Cam Dyck got bathed by the youth group.

BATHS, BEES AND O CANADA Roseisle, Man.: As 1 look back over the past months, 1 realized there were a lot of things 1 could report on, but using a cou­ ple of pages in The Messenger might not be appreciated or appropriate! Among highlights in April were our Sun­ rise service on the banks of the chilly Stephenfield Lake, the Ladies Fellowship annual fundraiser perogy supper on April 28, and a Tupperware shower for Pam Schmidt (who married our youth leader. Cam Dyck, in July). Our creative youth decided that if a bride-to-be could have a shower, a groom­ to-be could have a bath. This is why Cam found himself plunked into a bathtub of water on the night of May 12, “bathed” with a variety of gifts and good wishes. The tub was outdoors on a cold, rainy evening, and he was required to open his gifts while sitting in it. The place to “bee” the week of May 812 was at our Kid’s Rally. Our guest speaker, Frieda Johnson, did an excellent job of helping the 43 kids who came to learn how to “bee” like Jesus. The church was “buzzing” every evening from 7:00 to 8:30 with singing, stories, games and crafts. A colony of bees took up residence in our church for the week — the walls were covered with bees reminding us to “bee” joyful, kind, loving and other at­ tributes that we should have as followers of Jesus. Also in May, the Ladies Fellowship held a Spring Tea and Fashion Show with guest speaker Kathy McFadden from Carman. Our elementary children were excited on May 26 to move into their new school in Miami. Our church family made the deci­ sion to be in our new church building this fall. Hard work will have to be done for this to happen. In June, our youth participated in the 30hour famine. One project that night was to create a new church sign which will be posted on the highway. It will catch your eye. Our Sunday school picnic was held on June 11 with Fred Penner as speaker. It was a chilly day, though rain fell only in the evening. A new feature to our picnic was a mini carnival with several stations for kids and adults to visit and test their skills. They could choose from Frisbee

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Frieda Johnson was guest speaker at our kid’s rally in May. She is seen here with her puppet friend, Polly.

golf, ring toss, finding marbles in a tub of mud, balloon pop, shooting balls at a hockey net (with flashing lights, sirens and comments that went off depending how you shot), and a bell-ringer. You might recall that our “miracle baby,” Tristan (now three years old) had heart surgery in Montreal last September. Un­ fortunately, the surgery proved unsuccess­ ful, so Tristan and his parents. Deb and Sheldon Kuhl, made a return trip for an­ other surgery in June. We praise God that Tristan has made a remarkable recovery. After only two weeks, they were able to return home (as compared to three months last fall)! On July 1 our little community flings open its doors and hosts one of a few Canada Day celebrations in this area. Our population, normally about 75-80 in town, swells into the hundreds (even beyond 1000 on occasion) for this event. Some members from our church fam­ ily play an active role in making this event happen each year. Our youth again cooked and served a delicious waffle breakfast for about 300 people. They did an excellent job. Annie Peters kept the kids entertained in the afternoon with races, relays and baseball; she also helped organize our first-ever parade. Most people come for the evening ac­ tivities where Ang Penner again did an excellent job as emcee. A great deal of community spirit was shown that day. It made me proud to be part of this com­ munity and church family. Eleanor Friesen THE MESSENGER

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Tyler Wiebe prepares for his baseball career.

Harry Dickhaut, Len Frayle, Kathleen Grift, Elmer Loewen, and Eileen Koop do dishes at camp.

MARRIED...WITH CHILDREN Anola, Man.: Over the weekend of May 26-28, Star Lake had the privilege of host­ ing over sixty members of our church for family camp. This is the second year we have run such a camp and. Lord willing, there will be more in the future. Spending time with our church family in a different setting enabled us to get to know each other on a different level - one that we do not see on an average Sunday

morning. Barry Plett came with his family for the weekend. He built on what the parenting Sunday school class had been discussing - God’s plan for families. His theme was Married... with Children. Since we can all relate to the topic of family, it was a good choice for the weekend. Despite the infestation of tent caterpil­ lars, we were able to spend time outside playing volleyball and catch, roasting

marshmallows around a fire, doing water activities (boating, fishing, swimming, ski­ ing, tubing), and just hanging out. On Sunday morning, Elmer and Susan Loewen, who recently transferred as members, shared their faith journeys with us. Dwayne Koop also updated us on his time at Prairie Bible Institute with the Ex­ plore wilderness and leadership program. Vai Koop

DOWN BY THE RIVERSIDE Brandon, Man.: June 25 was hot, sunny and calm as three young men gave their testimonies and were baptized in the Assiniboine River as a public statement of their faith. James Warkentin, Jon Warkentin, and Johnathon Chihonik each spoke on why they thought church membership was important and told their faith stories. Pastor Wil Warkentin then baptized each young man in the river. The service was attended by friends and family who watched joyfully from the shore. A picnic lunch in the park followed the service on that wonderful Sunday after­ noon.

While pastor Wil Warkentin was away at convention and on holidays, our con­ gregation was blessed to hear from Jake Sawatzky, Rey Brandt, Ed Wiebe and Glenn Loewen. Many thanks for the words of wisdom you shared with us. Summer is upon us and camp enthusi­ asts are all geared up for family camp, August 4-6. We anticipate this will be a funfilled weekend of outdoor sports, camp­ ing and fellowship. We thank God for providing safety, fun and a special time of learning to young campers, teens and families at the vari­ ous summer camps that are going on this summer. Thanks also to those who have given in time and energy to serve as counselors, cooks, nurses and other help.

May God richly bless your efforts as you serve Him. Syd Chihonik

Jon Warkentin, Johnathon Chihonik and James Warkentin were baptized on June 25. Standing with them is pastor Wil Warkentin.

CONVENTION 2000 OFFERINGS The offerings during the 2000 EMC Annual Convention, July 7-9, in Landmark, Man., were:

Mission Projects (Sunday afternoon and evening)......................... $25,298 Steinbach Bible College....... 4,911 AIMM Ladies’ Auxiliary (Ladies’ Session)...... .. 3,141 Convention Expenses .. 4,316 Total........................... $37,666 The Board of Trustees Key Brandt leads the congregation in a time of worship through music. SEPTEMBER 6, 2000

Interim ministry has blessings and pitfalls, Pauls says Interim ministry is a “stop gap” minis­ try, similar to and yet different than be­ ing a pastor, Jake Pauls of Mennonite Church Canada explained to a small group of EMC leaders on June 29 at Fort Garry EMC in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The reasons for an interim minister vary, but are distinct - such as pastoral illness, a short or a long pastorate, or a pastor’s sudden death. Pauls, who has served in various in­ terim settings, said interim ministry’s joys are to know the end of the term of ministry, to leave before your blunders catch up, the freedom to speak to past church struggles, and the enrichment of serving in a new setting. Its pitfalls, he said, can include the struggle to be taken seriously, the slow process of a congregation’s pain, con­ flict which flares in an interim leader’s presence, a lack of goals, and not being around to finish what you start. He suggested that an interim pastor needs to focus more on process than on programs and ministries — to ask how and why are things done the way they are? Pauls said it is important that every in­ terim pastor be accountable to a small Everyone is invited to a gathering!

Ramwia and Henry

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Saturday, September 30 Steinbach EMC Gym

Celehraiui^ Htnry KtASsetds 2.8years of naiioKal serince^to the^E.M.ConferuicoCoffee and visiting starts at 6 p.m., with a program at 7 p.m. There will be an open mike.

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Region 8 Praise Night Steinbach EMC 420 Main Street Sunday, October 15,7 p.m.

PAGE 12

group, does not secretly plan to stay, takes training for such interim ministry, and claims all things for God. He recommended four books: Help­ ing People to Forgive (David Augsburger), Claiming All Things for God (George D. McClain), Interventionist (Lyle Schaller), and Discovering God’s Will Together (Danny Morris and Charles Olsen). Seven EMC couples attended. John Koop Conference Pastor

Menno Hamm Returned from El Paso, Texas

DIVINE APPOINTMENTS “WHERE SHALL WE have lunch?” is a common question when we are on the road. This time Elvina and I were pass­ ing through Winnipeg, on our way to Ed­ monton, to be with two of our grand­ daughters during their spring break. Circumstances required us to travel on Sunday morning, something we usually prefer to avoid. We were thankful for a radio station that carries Christian pro­ gramming, so we could worship and be spiritually fed as we drove. Ordinarily we don’t drive through Win­ nipeg when we head west, but we needed to pick up my camera which I had forgotten at our children’s place. That took a little longer than we had planned, so we were running a bit late. The question came up again, “What about lunch?” There are dozens of eat­ ing places on our route west along Por­ tage Avenue. Elvina suggested that we might regain a bit of lost time by having lunch at a fast-food outlet. That only slightly narrowed the possibilities; many choices were left. The decision unani­ mous was to stop at Arby’s, near the west end. As we slowed down and turned into the parking lot, I said, “That looks like Dave standing by the door.” It was our friend, Dave, whom we have known since our growing-up days in MacGregor, Manitoba. He was standing outside, wait­ ing for friends who were joining him for lunch after church. Since they hadn’t arrived yet, Dave joined us, and we had an enjoyable halfhour or so over lunch. Dave is such an

w* : S K i Jake Pauls (centre) of Mennonite Church Canada shared out of his experiences in interim ministry during an evening with seven EMC couples on June 29.

upbeat person that visiting with him is always a pleasure. Realizing that we needed to get back on the road again, we excused ourselves, while Dave went to join his friends, who had arrived in the meantime. That chance encounter with a friend brightened our day. Pleasant memories and conversation travelled with us for hours. Later, as I relived that experience in my mind, 1 wondered, Was that sim­ ply a chance encounter?T'o me it seemed that there were too many variables to attribute the meeting to chance. We were travelling on Sunday morn­ ing, which is unusual for us. We were passing through Winnipeg because of my forgetfulness, and were slightly de­ layed in getting the camera. Miles away, we selected the very restaurant where Dave would be waiting outside the door, just at the time we arrived. A few min­ utes sooner or later and we would not have met. Does God have a hand in setting up such encounters? 1 believe He does! 1 think that He enjoys giving us pleasant surprises once in a while, and uses even a poor memory to bring them about. There have been numerous such di­ vine appointments during our lives. For example, one time we “happened” to meet Marcia at an intersection in Harrisonburg, Virginia. We had previ­ ously taught together in northern Alberta. Talk about split-second timing! Recently, as Elvina and 1 were leaving a hotel-restaurant after an evening snack, we met a couple we knew from Swift Current. They had just arrived and were going into the hotel for the night. We were both hundreds of miles from home. Only a minute sooner or later and we would have missed each other. Thank you, Lord! Isn’t it great to know that our times are in God’s hands (Psalm 31:15)?

THE MESSENGER

EMC Post-Secondary Students Luncheon Wednesday, September 27, 2000 MARTENS - FAST; Bernie, son of the late Jacob and Agnes Martens, and Agnes, daughter of Anton (and the late Helen) Fast of Mitchell, Man., were married on July 8, 2000, in Blumenort, Man., with John Koop officiating. The couple resides in Fort Frances, Ont. EIDSE - GALSTON: Derek, son of Larry and Sandi Eidse of Rosenort, Man., and Joy, daughter of Bill and Maryann Galston of Portage la Prairie, Man., were married on July 29, 2000, in Winnipeg, Man., with David and Anita Ruis officiating. The couple resides in Winnipeg.

IDA REMPEL 1923-2000 Mrs. Ida Rempel, age 76, of Swift Cur­ rent, Sask, and formerly of McMahon, Sask., passed away peacefully in her sleep on Friday, June 9. The funeral service was held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, June 13 at the Bridgeway Com­ munity Church with Pastor Melvin Koop officiating. Music was provided by organ­ ist Connie Schlamp, by granddaughter Danae Kroeker on the piano, and by con­ gregational leader Maurice Schapansky. Special music was by grandsons Pat, Maury, and Dale Friesen and a duet by Gayle Wiebe and Gloria Neustaeter. Daughter-in-law Debby Rempel read the eulogy. Granddaughter Alysia Loewen and son Clinton Rempel gave tributes. The ush­ ers were Bill Neustaeter, Stan Giesbrecht, John Fehr and Wes Schapansky. A luncheon/reception hosted by the Swift Current EMC ladies and men was held following the interment service. The interment serv­ ice was held at the EMC cemetery at Chortitz, Sask., with Pastor Wilbert Friesen officiating. The pall-bearers were nieces and neph­ ews: Gladys Martens, Paul Funk, Anna Friesen, Jack Funk, Susan Wiebe and Bill Funk. Ida is survived by her husband, George K. Rempel; daughter Hilda (Wilbert Friesen), son Henry (Debby) Rempel, SEPTEMBER 6. 2000

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Room 205-207 University Centre The University of Manitoba Come and Go! Lunch Supplied. Bring a Friend. (This is for all EMC students, not just for those at the U. of M.)

For more information contact Travis Unger at 204-779-2888 Roseanne Friesen at 204-355-9259 Gerald Reimer at 204-326-6401

daughter Agnes (Dave) Kroeker, son Clarence (Mary) Rempel, son Clinton and fiance Heidi Townsend; 11 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; four sisters: Wilhelmina, Elizabeth, Agnes and Mary; as well as numerous in-laws, nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents Jacob B. and Agnes Linna Funk; grand­ child Ryan Hunter Rempel; great grand­ child Jason Scott Friesen; 7 brothers: Heinrich (in infancy), Heinrich, Johan, Abram, Jacob, Isaac and Ernest. Ida was born in Hamburg, Sask, on June 24,1923, to her parents Jacob B. and Agnes Linna Funk. She was the youngest daugh­ ter in a family of 12 children, having seven brothers and four sisters. She received her formal education at the Hopefield School. She found a companion for life when she married George K. Rempel on December 9, 1945 in the Schoenfeld Summerfelder Church. Ida farmed together with her husband George in the McMahon area. She was a member of the EMC where she faithfully served as Sunday school teacher for many years. She also served in the Ladies’ Aid group. Together, she and her husband served in the care-giving ministry of their church. Ida enjoyed crocheting, quilting, read­ ing, cross-stitching and gardening. She was especially fond of her roses. Ida also enjoyed games and was always ready to join in a game of Aggravation or Skip-bo with enthusiasm. She will be remembered for her willing­ ness to give herself to others. She was al­ ways ready to give and did it cheerfully. Ida will be dearly missed by her husband George, her family and many friends and relatives. Her memory will be cherished forever. Those wishing to do so may make do­ nations to the Heart and Stroke Founda­ tion, 1604 Hillcrest Dr., Swift Current, SK S9H IPl. Her Family

COMING EVENTS September 14-16 Winnipeg Prophecy Conference I Am Alpha and Omega Immanuel Pentecostal Church Winnipeg, Man. Phone: 204-889-8099 September 29-30 InScribe Christian Writers' Fellowship 20"’ Anniversary The King’s University College Edmonton, Alta. Phone: 780-467-7723 September 29-October 1 Mother-Daughter Retreat Forever, For Always, No Matter What Swift Current EMC Swift Current, Sask. Phone:306-587-2438 or 306-773-5759 October 15 Region 8 Praise Night Steinbach EMC, 7 p.m. Steinbach, Man. Phone: 204-326-2957

YOU ARE INVITED TO A FAREWELL OPEN HOUSE IN HONOUR OF DAVID AND MERNA THIESSEN

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Coffee and dessert will be served. A program will be held at 7 p.m.

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 17, FROM 6:30-9:00 PM.

FORT GAHKY EMC 13

HELENA (THIESSEN) PENNER 1912-2000 Glimpses into the seasons of a mother’s life...

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven, a time to be born and a time to die... (Eccl. 3:1-2). Seventy years is the span of life, eighty if our strength holds; the hurrying years are a labour and a sorrow... So quickly they pass and are forgotten. Teach us to order our days rightly, so that we may enter the Gate of Wisdom (Psalm 90:10-12).

For our mother, grandmother and great­ grandmother, Helen, the time to be born came on March 10, 1912. After the arrival of four sons, her parents Peter B. and Katherine (Plett) Thiessen of Giroux, Mani­ toba welcomed their eldest daughter with great joy. Her time to die came 88 years later, on a rainy Friday morning, July 7. After many years of ill health and a recent bout of pneumonia, followed by a viral infection in her stomach, she succumbed to kidney failure. She passed away peacefully with her youngest son, Leroy, at her bedside, holding her hand. The years between that beginning and ending were filled with many joys and sorrows. She rejoiced in being her mother’s helper and she perfected her considerable home-making skills. At the same time, she regretted that, although she loved to study, she had to leave school at an early age. In July, 1931, she was baptized upon confession of her faith and became a com­ mitted life-long member of the Kleine Gemeinde church (now EMC). Another joyous occasion was her mar­ riage to the love of her life, John K. Penner, on July 1, 1932. Together, they shared 53 years of marriage and rejoiced in the birth of their beloved children, Doreen, Ron, Peter, Lavern and Leroy. They also grieved over three children who died in infancy. PAGE 14

Later, she found joy in her four sons’ marriages, which brought a gender bal­ ance to the Penner family and gave her four daughters-in-law. She loved these family additions, and like the rest of her children, considered them extra-special. Then arrived twelve wonderful grand­ children and seven spectacular great­ grandchildren, with another one on the way. That little one will, on his or her birth, receive the last baby gift Mom purchased from the gift shop as she left the hospital after her bout with pneumonia. She wel­ comed each grandchild and great-grand­ child with delight and tried to remember the important events in their lives, though most of them lived far away. As Mom moved through her eighties and approached her nineties, her vibrant per­ sonality and keen intellect continued to hold even though she was physically frail. She continued to read extensively (though this became limited because of glau­ coma) and she listened to the World News on CBC Radio every day with a globe be­ side her bed to locate the countries she didn’t recognize! She loved lively conversations and freely expressed her thoughts on themes as var­ ied as faith and fashion, politics and pre­ ferred medical treatments, right until the week she died. As for “ordering her days rightly,” that came naturally to Mom both in her faith and in day-to-day living. Daily Scripture readings and prayer, listening to Back to the Bible, and participating in communal worship through the video service gener­ ously provided by the Blumenort church, nurtured and comforted her during the long years of being housebound by a de­ generative back condition. By nature, she was an orderly, home­ loving person who would probably have preferred a more settled life than she ex­ perienced. However, she managed to quickly create calm, attractive homes, al­ most sanctuaries, out of the 13 houses that came her way as she and Dad responded to the calls of faith and family in various communities in Manitoba and Saskatch­ ewan. It didn’t matter that their first home was a renovated granary or that they had to move into a chicken barn after their pa­ ternal home burnt down at Christmas in 1952; with a bit of paint and polish, these humble dwellings were transformed into something bright and beautiful. Nevertheless, these moves were hard for her, especially when this meant leav­ ing behind her beloved friends and ex­ tended family in the Blumenhof commu­ nity. Still, she was willing to uproot if this was best for her children and wider faith community. For example, in 1945, the family made a “temporary” move to the Saskatoon area so that their first-born child, Doreen, could attend a school for the deaf. Then in 1958,

there was a more “permanent” move to a beautiful, but somewhat isolated farm in Maryfield, Saskatchewan so that their sons would have access to more farm land (though none ended up farming); and so they could assist in helping to establish a small outreach church in Heron. Perhaps hardest about these moves was that, in the end, almost inevitably, they left her children, grandchildren and great­ grandchildren scattered from Ontario to B.C. and not infrequently, in various coun­ tries in southern Africa. In 1973, Mom and Dad retired to Blumenort and built a home which had an indoor bathroom with a flush toilet. Fi­ nally, in 1986, a year after Dad’s death. Mom moved into a sunny apartment at Oakwood Place. She hoped this would be her last earthly home. We give thanks that, after a very difficult year health-wise — when she was in and out of hospital many times — her much-loved daughter Doreen and loving home-care staff made it possible for her to stay there until the final week of her life. To mourn her passing and celebrate her life, she leaves behind a daughter and four sons: Doreen, Ron (Caroline), Peter (Leona), Lavern (Brenda), Leroy (Betty); twelve grand-children and seven great­ grandchildren; three siblings: a sister, Katherine Penner, and two brothers, Ben (Helen), Dick (Jessie); three sisters-in-law: Elizabeth (RK. Penner), Katherine (David Thiessen), and Erna (John Thiessen), and one brother-in-law, Ben Penner, plus many other relatives and friends. Helen was predeceased by her hus­ band, John, in 1985, as well as by six sib­ lings and many friends and relatives. Her hope was that she would be the next to

go.

Thanks to all those who helped to ease Mom’s passing during these last difficult months of illness. Many people worked to care for Mom with love and compassion. Thanks also to thoughtful Blumenort cous­ ins who assisted Doreen in various ways, including frequent rides to visit Mom in hospital, and especially, translating and offering support during the funeral. Finally, we express our heartfelt grati­ tude for all those generous acts of kind­ ness that came our way these past few days as we planned this farewell for our mother. Your gifts of prayer, time in plan­ ning, hosting, serving delicious food, lovely cards and flowers, helped to lighten the load and brightened many a tear-filled hour. And now, Aufwiedersehen, Mom, Grandmother, and Great-grandmother, Helen. We love you and miss you. May God’s face shine upon you and guard your going out and coming in, now and forever more, as you rest in peace. Her Family

THE MESSENGER

Rest Haven Nursing Home in Steinbach, Manitoba, invites applications for the position of volunteer coordinator on a volunteer basis. Responsibilities include recruiting volunteers and assisting the director of recreation services in management/coordination of volunteers. A job description is available. Call Peter Enns at 204-326-2206, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Providence College and Theological Seminary, an interdenominational evangelical institution, is seeking applications for the office of president. Providence is located at Otterburne, Man., thirty minutes south of Winnipeg. Present enrollment is 650 full-time equivalent with 7% growth during each of the past five years. Programs include theology, liberal arts, sports, music and drama. The president is to be responsible for the overall operation of the institution, including promoting the mission and vision of Providence, administrative oversight, public representation of the institution, and directing a program for academic and financial growth. The successful candidate must have a doctoral degree, administrative experience and be in agreement with the Providence statement of faith. Interested applicants should submit a curriculum vitae in confidence to: presidentialsearch@providence.mb.ca, or mail to Presidential Search, Don Streuber, chairman. Providence College, Otterburne, MB ROA IGO. Deadline for applications is November 10, 2000 and duties are to commence in spring or summer of 2001.

Mitchell Community Fellowship seeks a pastor on a half-time basis. The congregation, with a Sunday morning attendance of around 100, is located in the growing community of Mitchell, Manitoba, about 5 kilometers west of Steinbach. Experience and a commitment to preaching, teaching, and pastoral ministry are essential. Send a resume to: Pastoral Search Committee, c/o Donna Snider, Coordinator, Box 4093, Steinbach, MB ROA 2A0. Phone 204-3461973 or E-mail: mennovil@mb.sympatico.ca Beaver Creek Bible Camp, located about a halfhour north of Riverton, Manitoba, has rental dates open for September 25-30 for church groups, families and more. Contact Mark Westman at 204-378-5694 or e-mail at ninja@mb.sympatico.ca

La Crete Christian Fellowship Church (EMC) is presently looking for a youth pastor. Candidates should have a love for youth, have some experience in youth leadership, be willing to teach and be self-motivated. Is this you? La Crete is a predominantly Mennonite community with a population of about 6000, which includes the surrounding farming area. The LCCF has an average worship attendance of about 400, and a youth group of up to 40 people. If you feel God is calling you, we’d like to hear from you. Please contact the pastoral

SEPTEMBER 6, 2000

search committee chairman, Peter Fehr, Box 385, La Crete, Alta. TOH 2H0 or leave a phone message at 780-928-2045.

Northern Fellowship Chapel (EMC) in Creighton, Sask, (near Flin Flon, Man.) seeks a pastor gifted in outreach with a vision for the future; the worker could also direct a local CSSM Bible camp part-time. Salary and housing package worked out with church in consultation with the EMC Board of Missions and, if necessary, with CSSM. Information package available. Applicants are to be grounded spiritually and personally. Contact: Search Committee, Box 35, Creighton, SK SOP OAO. Call board member Deb Odegaard at 306688-2996, EMC Conference Pastor John Koop, or CSSM Manitoba director Dean Davidson at 204-667-8311. Mount Salem EMC in southern Ontario seeks a full-time senior pastor. This is a rural, growing church with an average Sunday morning attendance of around 350. For more information and applications contact Randy Fehr by phone at519-773-9021 ore-mail: r.fehr@kanservu.ca, or Peter Froese by phone at 519-773-8069.

Endeavour Fellowship Chapel (EMC) seeks a mature spiritual leader. Is the Lord leading you into full-time ministry? Prayerfully consider if this is where He would have you. Contact: Gary Sawatzky, Chairman, Box 650, Preeceville, SK S0A3B0. Phone: 306-547-2027 (home), 306-5472959 (work) or E-mail: gs_dega@qlo.com. Do you love being with youth and helping them grow deep spiritual roots that will help them stand against the pressures of this world? If this description matches your heart, consider applying for half-time youth pastor at Mission Heights Community Church (EMC) in Grande Prairie, Alberta. Grande Prairie, a city of 36,000, is a growing community in northwestern Alberta. It is a resource-based community which serves as the primary service centre for northern Alberta. Average Sunday morning attendance at Mission Heights is 190, with many young families. About 30 youth attend the weekly youth meetings; the group is growing. We seek someone to help coordinate and continue to develop our youth ministry. There is potential to become a full-time position. If you feel that God may be leading you, contact: Merv Brandt, c/o 8321 Mission Heights Dr., Grande Prairie, AB, T8W 2H4 or phone 780-831-4170.

High Level Christian Academy has full-time positions for the 2000/2001 school year: principal/part-time teacher (the principal will teach some courses, allowing teachers preparation time); E.C.S./speclal needs worker (it’s an asset, but not necessary, to have training in special needs); and a grade 3/4 teacher. Contact: HLCA, Box 5800 High Level, AB TOH IZO, phone 780-926-2360, or fax 780-926-3245.

to an interim position. The candidate should enjoy preaching and teaching, be effective in pastoral care, and encourage community outreach. Please send a resume to Jim Penner, Box 70, Kola, MB ROM 1B0, phone 204-8452105, or contact the EMC Conference Pastor, John Koop, at 204-326-6401.

Wymcirk EMC has a full-time associate pastor position available, with emphasis on youth ministry. Musical ability would be an asset. Duties are to begin in fall. Average Sunday morning attendance is 150. Contact Marv Hildebrand at 306-627-3545 or write: c/o Pastoral Search Committee, R.R. 1, Wymark, SK SON 2Y0. You may also contact the church by faxing 306-773-0952 or by e-mail at wymarkemc@sk.sympatico.ca. Are you looking for an exciting opportunity in youth ministry? Niverville Elim Mennonite Church (EMMC) is currently looking for an individual to fill a newly created part-time youth leader role. If you are a born-again Christian with a genuine love and concern for youth, and have some experience in youth ministry, please forward your resume to: Ben and Mika Sawatzky, Box 706, Niverville, MB ROA 1EO. You may also contact by phone at 204-388-4527, fax 204-388-9224 or e-mail at rob@wavefire.com.

Steinbach Bible College, a growing evangelicalAnabaptist college affiliated with a Mennonite constituency invites applications for head librarian. This faculty position involves library development, making acquisitions, and supervising staff and volunteers. The successful candidate will have an MLS degree and must be in agreement with and willing to abide by the college's Statement of Faith and Lifestyle position. The position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. A job description will be sent upon request. Submit application with resume and cover letter to: Harvey Plett, Academic Dean, Steinbach Bible College, Box 1420, Steinbach, MB ROA 2A0. You may also phone 204-326-6451 or e-mail harvey_plett@SBCollege.mb.ca. Fort Garry EMC in Winnipeg, Manitoba, is searching for a senior pastor who will take major leadership responsibility in the church and work with the church council and other ministries. The candidate should be an effective preacher and teacher, and be good at caring for and relating to people in the congregation and community. Pastoral experience and theological education are important. Please send resume, including references, to Corinne Klassen, 107 Ruttan Bay, Winnipeg, MB R3T 0H5 or phone 204-453-5563 for information.

Part-time and casual positions are available at El’dad Ranch (MCC), a unique and exciting opportunity to share God’s love on a mission field near Steinbach, Manitoba. If you are interested, please call Jewel Reimer at 204-326-1050.

Kola EMC at Kola, Man., seeks a full-time pastor to start immediately. We are also open

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‘A woman of prayer’

A Ib'ibule Io Heleno Heppner, my Mom Cvelyn Rodgers

do well. When extra time was needed for homework or MANY TIMES we pay tribute to a loved one when they studies, she saw to it that my chores got done. She put are gone. This is a very good idea, but I would like to pay extra effort into picnics. What scrumptious meals she tribute to my mother while she is still with us. It is my prepared, especially for school picnics! way of saying “Thanks, Mom, and I love you.” Her sense of humour saw us through tough situations. Helena Heppner (nee Dyck) was born on February Even now she continues to be a source of encouragement 19, 1918 at Aberdeen, Saskatchewan, to Abram and to others by her sense of humour and positive outlook Justina Dyck. She was the middle child of a family of 17 on life. children. Her family was poor, doing My mother is best described as a without most of the conveniences we “woman of prayer.” It was her prayers have today. that, first of all, brought my dad to his At age 14 Mom had to quit school knees before they were married. It because she had no shoes to walk to was her prayers that did much to school in wintertime. Shortly after, create a loving atmosphere at home. she left home to start work as a We knew that we had a praying housemaid. When she and Dad got mother supporting us. When my married she was working at the brother Jack told her he was going to Moffats. the mission field, she wasn’t Though Mom did not have much surprised; she said she had given him opportunity to receive a formal to the Lord long ago. education she learned many lessons Mom’s example in being hospitable from life’s experiences. Somehow has helped me greatly in extending she could make do with what was on hospitality. So many times Sunday hand and make us all laugh. She dinners or evening meals were passed on many important lessons of shared with others. There was always life. enough for everyone. Those without Mom was a great worker and loved ones near at hand often managed to get us involved in some became a part of our family. These way. Laundry day was a big day. You were times of rich blessing for us. had to carry water, heat it on the Upon her retirement, I have been stove, and then start the job. Clothes Helena Heppner is retired and living in blessed to see her continue to reach were hung outside (inside in winter) MacGregor, Man. out to those around her and be able and then most of them needed to lead some of them to the Lord. Her involvement in ironing. After this, the water had to be carried outside. Friendship Bible coffees in the neighborhood was a real This is one example of many things that took up so much outreach. time years ago. More by the way she lived her life than anything else, I’ll always remember her big garden and how hard she she taught us so much. I’m thankful for a heritage like worked to fill the pantry for winter. She taught us to have that. pride in our work. Mom was always there for us when we came home Evelyn Rodgers farms near MacGregor. She and her mother from school. Though she never had a chance to go to attend the MacGregor EMC. school for long, she made many sacrifices so we could Do you have a story for The Personal Touch? It must be a true account (although names may be changed, if necessary) illustrating the Christian life or character. Send your 700-word story and a photograph of yourself or suggestion for a story to the address below. PAGE 16

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