The Messenger July 24, 2002

Like a tree, Stony Brook Fellowship grows!

On Sunday, May 12, Stony Brook had a parent-child dedication. This is an exciting morning when we see the children's parents desire to raise them in a way that honours and pleases God. We thank God for the "little buds" in our congregation. Participating were Mark and Lisa Gretsinger with Rayce, Wes and Myra Kroeker with Tyana, Darrell and Cheryl Peters with Thomas, and Mike and Melissa Thiessen with Gabriela. Pastor Earl Unger supported them.

Erica Quiring, Jillian Poirier, and Rebecca Wiens became members by a reafirmation of faith on May 5. Doreen Penner

(see report on pagell)

EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE VOLUME 40 NUMBER 13 JULY 24, 2002

Messenger EDITOR Terry M. Smith

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A decision to concern us

E SHOULD be concerned about the recent Ontario Court of Appeal’s decision that it was unconstitutional for the province not to register same-sex marriages. From wider society and the courts, and even from within the Church itself, there is increasing pressure felt by historic Christian churches to accept same-sex relationships—yet we must not do this. We also need to have a sensitive pastoral response to individuals and families who struggle with homosexuality, as the March 1999 EMC ministerial’s position statement brings out. We must beware of overstatements and stereotypes, as many people might remind us. There are involved questions of biblical authority and interpretation that we cannot go into. Here, however, is my position on this issue. We cannot accept homosexual practice as an appropriate lifestyle or bless same-sex unions. A central scripture says, “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh” (Gen. 2:24). Marriage is described here as between a man and a woman, with generations of heterosexual relationships within marriage (father and mother, husband and wife) upheld and affirmed. Homosexual practice is unnatural and inappropriate (Lev. 18:22; Rom. 1:26-27; 1 Cor. 6:9). While Scripture does not record that Jesus directly addressed the issue of homosexuality, we are told that our Lord spoke positively of marriage and of it being a relationship between a man and a woman (Mark 10:1-12). Jesus referred us back to Genesis 2:24. The EMC’s official position is the historic position of the Christian Church: “God’s will for marriage is the union of one man and one woman” (EMC Constitution, p. 15). In the March 1999 ministerial statement, it was said that “Both Old and New Testaments consistently present the practice of homosexuality negatively.” The statement supported permanent, heterosexual, monogamous marriage. The Ontario government has decided not to appeal the decision. This is regrettable. We can hope and pray that, whatever future court decisions about homosexual practice might be, the state will respect churches who have a declared position affirming marriage as between one man and one woman. That, PAGE 2

however, remains to be seen. Many denominations have been touched by the issue of homosexuality—a basic issue involving nature, morality, and Scripture—and we cannot expect to remain unaffected by it. For example, in 1976 the Presbyterian Church USA decided to form a National Task Force to Study Homosexuality, it was to consider “the ordination of avowed and practicing homosexuals.” The majority of the nineteen-member task force supported ordination, a minority did not, according to one of the minority, Don Williams, who published a book in 1978 The Bond that Breaks: Will Homosexuality Split the Church? Williams argued that the church should oppose ordination of avowed and practicing homosexuals. He also held that the truth should be spoken in love. In 1988 the United Church of Canada—though not without inner opposition—voted to allow for ordination of homosexuals. More recently, the Mennonite Church USA and Mennonite Church Canada have discussed nationally or at lesser levels whether to accept homosexuals as members and openly-declared homosexuals as ministers. To an outsider, their decisions and polity appear complex—a mixture of national position and of local church autonomy—with a resulting lack of clarity. Dozens of letters have been published in the independent newspaper Mennonite Weekly Review, from Newton, Kansas, on the topic of homosexuality and church membership. Recently an Anglican diocese in British Columbia voted to allow the blessing of samesex unions—not without opposition. During its General Assembly on June 2-6, the Presbyterian Church in Canada passed a motion to “communicate to both the provincial and federal governments that” it “holds to the position that marriage is between one man and one woman.” Some commissioners dissented {Presbyterian Record, July/August 2002). The courts and governments are influenced by wider Canadian society. Political parties seek to emphasize that they reflect the will of Canadians. As citizens of Canada, if we are “the silent in the land” on this important matter, will the government and the courts know what we want for the church and for the well-being of wider society? Terry M. Smith

ASSISTANT EDITOR 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. Unpublished material is not returned except by request. The views and opinions expressed by the writers are their own and do not nec­ essarily represent the position of the Conference. THE MESSENGER is published twice a month (once a month in July and August) by the Board of Church Ministries of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference, 440 Main Street, Steinbach, Manitoba. Subscriptions: $12.00 per year (Manitoba residents add 7% PST, to­ tal: $12.84). Subscriptions are volun­ tary and optional 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 We acknowledge the financial

support of the Government of Canada, through the Publications Assistance Program (PAP), toward our mailing costs. The Messenger occasionally gets requests for use of its mailing list, usually a one-time use from usually conference-related institutions. Approval for such use comes from the executive or complete Board of Church Ministries. If you prefer to opt out from such requests, please notify the editors. 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 E-mail: emcmessenger@mts.net Portions available at www.emconf.calMessenger

MESSENGER SCHEDULE: No. 14 - August 24 (copy due August 9)

THE MESSENGER

Living as people of peace in a climate of war Joanna Plett Peace (pes) n. 1. freedom from war 2. an agreement to end war 3. law and order 4. harmony; concord 5. serenity, calm, or quiet {Webster's Dictionary).

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you (Jesus Christ, John 14:27). Actually they [Israel] are merely split down the middle between those who have long wanted to withdraw and those who think land is more important than peace (Edward N. Luttwak, TIME magazine).

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone (Apostle Paul, Romans 12:18). If Arafat is killed...you can say goodbye to the peace process for 10 years (senior Arab official). He [Jesus] came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near (Apostle Paul, Ephesians 2:17).

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EACE. Where is peace? What is peace? We call ourselves a people of peace. Lip service, perhaps. But in this time of turmoil and war, it is crucial to know what our place is as a people of peace. In order to understand our place as people of peace, we must understand what people of peace really are. God is the instigator and author of peace; therefore, our first and most important peace is with God. While we were God’s enemies (Romans 5:10), he found a way to break down the barriers and bring peace. The only way to bring peace was justice, but, instead of waging war against us, God chose to be our peace by paying the price of justice (Ephesians 2:14). The peace treaty he offers includes primary citizenship in heaven and only temporary visas on earth (Ephesians 2:19, Philippians 3:20, Hebrews 11:13-16). While our citizenship is in heaven, we find that the treaty offers explicit instructions on how to live peacefully abroad. In order to strengthen and encourage his citizens on earth, God created embassies for them—the church. The church is also given a mandate for peace. The church is one body with many parts (1 Corinthians 12) told to work together toward unity (Ephesians 4:3). Love within the church is so important that it is our trademark (John 13:35) and reconciliation is vital to our relationship with God (Matthew 5:23-24, 6:14-15). Unless we have peace with God and with each other, we cannot be ambassadors of peace to the earth. “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace” (Colossians 3:15). As foreign ambassadors, our peace treaty requires that

we also obey the laws of the country we live in. God, as sovereign ruler, appointed authorities to rule the earth, to keep order, and to do good. He also gave authorities the sword, as an agent of his wrath (Romans 13:4), since vengeance is God’s (Romans 12:19). Christians are told numerous times in the Bible to obey authorities. Jesus taught his followers to pay taxes (Matthew 22:21). Paul told Timothy to remind the church to be subject to authority, to be obedient, to be ready to do good, to be peaceable, and to show true humility to all men (Titus 3:1). In Romans 13, Paul told the Christians to submit to authorities in order to be free. Peter tells his readers to submit to every authority to silence foolish talk and to be witnesses (1 Peter 2:12-17). When Christians are forced to choose between obedience to authorities or to God, we are to obey God (Acts 5:29). We are a people of peace: peace with God, peace within the church, and peace with authorities. Unless we live a life of peace among these entities, we have no right to speak to the world about peace. We have a calling to bring God’s peace into the world by love. God’s peace is beyond our understanding and is different from the peace the world offers (John 14:27). As people of peace, world circumstances should not need to drastically change the way we live. We are people of peace in our homes, churches and communities, as well as on the world stage. Our lives must reflect peace. In this time of war, trauma and pain, we must approach the battle, not with physical violence, but with the weapons we have been given from our homeland. One of our primary weapons is prayer. “The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective” (James 5:16). In 1 Timothy 2 we are told to pray for everyone and to pray for peace. Another weapon we are given is the Word of God (Ephesians 6:17), which is quick, powerful, and sharper than a two-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12). With it, we are able to stand firm in our faith as well as direct others to the message of true peace. Truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, and the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace are given to us for our defence (Ephesians 6). The weapons we carry have the power to demolish strongholds and deception (2 Corinthians 10:3-4). One of the difficulties of this battle is that it is a battle of the mind and heart. It requires a living sacrifice, a willingness to hurt, feel, love and cry, not only physical fitness and a keen

Joanna Plett received an honourable mention in the EMC Social Concerns Committee essay contest. She attends Morweena EMC and has completed grade 11 at Morweena Christian School.

JULY 24, 2002 PAGE 3

“Palestinian mothers share the sadness of Israeli eye. It requires a willingness to switch from the definition of justice that says, “My family had the right to live, but you mothers. A mother is a mother. We are helpless. We can only cry tears” (Ibtisam Daragmeh; mother of suicide killed them; therefore, I have the right to kill your family” to a definition of justice which says, “1 have the right to bomber Mohammed Daragmeh). This is the climate of live; therefore, you have the right to live,” leaving war. Our responsibility as people of peace is to “give the volunteers more reasons for vengeance to God and his appointees. living than for dying,” to Are we willing to take the combat depression with definition one step further truth, to grieve with those and say, “If 1 have the right to who grieve, and to bring a peace. It begins in our hearts, then spreads message of hope and light three cars and a swimming pool, you have the right to at darkness. to our homes, communities and, eventually, to the least one meal a day”? Are “As a former drug addict, we acting justly and loving 1 know that fear of HIV is no to the world. We are armed with prayer, mercy (Micah 6:8)? We find deterrent to dmg use. It was in Isaiah 59 that justice and the care of a friend, a place serving the Commander who has peace go hand in hand. “The to stay, a shower, a few way of peace they do not meals, and a belief my life overcome the world. know; there is no justice in was worth saving that their paths” verse eight changed my life” (Bud states. Osborn, poet). “For some Where there is injustice, there cannot be peace. The [Christians], the dialogue is more about sin and prophets are full of warnings against injustice—unfair punishment than it is about healing” (Dave Toycen, World business deals, oppression, complacency. God himself Vision Canada). punished injustice. Are we living our everyday lives and Again and again, we find that we must be willing to step using our resources justly? out into the world, not to tell people that they’re wrong, but to walk beside them, to listen to them, and to 'e are a people of peace. We are messengers of understand—to visit the sick and grieving, to feed the hope and love. These are the voices of hungry, and to shine in the world so people will see our . hopelessness: “Nothing, neither policies nor love and turn to the Prince of Peace. military barricades, can prevent a person who chooses to We are on the front lines of a battle for peace. It begins be a martyr from carrying out his action” (Musa Abu in our hearts, then spreads to our homes, communities Marzouk; No. 2 leader of Hamas). and, eventually, to the world. We are armed with prayer, “There’s enormous despair. There’s no meaning to life” serving the Commander who has overcome the world. (Ehud Sprinzik regarding suicide bombers). “There is a We are living sacrifices willing to give up our lives for the disagreement over how to staunch suicide bombings: sake of our homeland. We are citizens of heaven. We are should one remove the infrastmcture that supports them living brochures. We have a message of hope and peace or give the volunteers more reasons for living than for that can only be brought by love and truth. We are a people dying?” (TIME magazine). of peace. ■

We are on the front lines of a battle for

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CORRECTIONS TO JUNE 26

WRITINGS SHARED-. Ed Reimer’s review of Scientific Creationism in perspective, Biblical Creation Defended:

So deep was Your grief You could die So full was the cup of our pride The sorrow of Your soul would begin To bear the gross weight of our sin Your soul cried out in despair At the thought of this cup You must bear You were stren^^thened when the hour had come Not my will, fut the Father 's, be done You could have washed us away in a flood But You decided to say with Your blood That the price was too high to be met This is the year / will cancel your debt Brigitte Toews

Deut. 31:10, Mark 14:32-42, Matt. 26:38, Luke 4:19, Is. 61:1-2. PAGE 4

“It unequivocally de­

fends the belief in creation as revealed by God and recorded in the Bible, while exposing scientific creationism as a futile endeavour that is more harmful than helpful to the cause of Christian apologetics.” Ed Reimer is a retired educator. He has not been a university professor. Our apology. Editor

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Steinbach In Golf-Course Fly-tn Coffee at 8 a.m. I T' Golf at 9 a.m. 'hone: Al Fast at 204-256-4051

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Duane Penner at 202h&47-^t85

THE MESSENGER

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SEettefts We need to continue the dialogue I enjoyed teaching Old Testament in southern Ontario this past winter. It was interesting to note that they include all the EMC and EMMC (and Aylmer Sommerfeld) churches in one phone directory. 1 was encouraged to see how these churches were working together. Recently, Dave Dyck wrote a letter to the

editor of The EMMC Recorder encouraging the EMMC to consider further dialogue regarding our “dating relationship.” Would you consider reprinting that letter in The Messenger? 1 think we need to continue the dialogue. Gord Penner Steinbach, Man.

Letters to the Editor Letters published are generally to comment on issues raised in The Messenger. Letters by hand or fax require a handwritten signature. All letters require a name, an address and a phone number. Letters can be edited for length, clarity, legality, and taste. The focus of letters is to be on an issue, not a personality. All publication of letters is subject to the policy approved January 2002 by the EMC Board of Church Ministries. 5

EEMMMCC Dialogue (printed in The EMMC Recorder} Any serious relationship must happen on the basis of friendship. The EMMC and the Evangelical Mennonite Conference (EMC) have been friends for many years. My own personal friendship with the EMC began in the early 70’s when Harvey Plett stayed at our home in Saskatoon. After graduating from SBI (Steinbach Bible Institute at the time) and WMB (Winnipeg Bible College, now Providence College) I entered the pastoral ministry at Bagot, Man. My experience was that in the central plains region—Portage, Bagot, MacGregor, Austin—our two conference churches functioned as a “family” of churches. We are friends. For about two years the idea of a merger between the EMMC and the EMC has been “hatching” in my mind and on my computer. I have discussed it with a number of EMMCers and have been encouraged to discuss it further and publicly. With the recent article in the Recorder [a reprint of Terry Smith’s editorial The EMMC and EMC have merged?] and the “interesting” response to it, I believe now is the time to dialogue about a possible merger. There are a number of reasons why a merger seems logical. The EMMC and EMC have historically worked in harmony in various education and other ministry experiences. Joint conventions, serving on the board of SBC, education publications like the Christian Life Book, memo calendar, just to name a few. Presently there is discussion about a joint Pastor’s Handbook. The two conferences have historically experienced similar renewal movements, which in turn have developed into a similar mission vision, such as a ministry to our Mennonite people, serving in AIMM, and mission activity in Latin America. Another reason is an economic rationale. Instead of two head offices, it seems to make economic sense that, as one conference, we could easily operate with one head office, reducing the cost of administration in ministry. This would especially apply to our mission activity in JULY 24, 2002

Latin America. We could have one expanded conference periodical. Our educational activities and publications could be strengthened and expanded. Mission strategists say that, in the new millennium, mission agencies will need to partner in order to remain functional. We are already enjoying partnership, for example, the tri-conference church plant in North Winnipeg. Our church ministries could be strengthened. There would be a greater resource of potential pastoral candidates and other workers for our churches. We would have strengthened regions. 1 have already mentioned the central plains region. There would be other regions, such as Ontario, that would be strengthened. We might also be a viable alternative for churches seeking a “Conference Home.” Churches that have left another Mennonite conference and become independent might consider partnering with a new evangelical Mennonite body, a conference that is not too big and not so small. Perhaps we could include churches interested in a “new umbrella” from the very beginning in a joint discussion. There is already a Mennonite Evangelical movement, somewhat like this, in North America. Check the web site on the Internet, Mennonite Connections on the WWW. Follow the links to the Association of Evangelical Mennonite Congregations. Can we learn from this? I know there might be a number of objections to a merger. One might be that “we would be too big.” With over 80 churches and a membership of about

10,500 (round figures), we would still be significantly smaller than a number of other Canadian Mennonite conferences. Another might be that “we would lose our distinctive.” We could still celebrate unique distinctives in regions. In the EMMC, Saskatchewan, Ontario, Belize, Seminole, each have their own story to tell, quite different than the Manitoba story. Bringing the two conferences together would only enhance our overall story. Another might be “theological distinctive.” It doesn’t seem that there are any major theological obstacles for amalgamation. Many informal discussions have taken place over the years about a possible merger. Should we put it to a test, as to the seriousness of our informal discussions? How do we move this idea forward? The matter of working closer with the EMC and a possible merger is not a new idea. It has been discussed as early as the 1950s and 60s. Are we ready at this point for a more formal discussion and dialogue? Should the EMMC initiate the process? It could take the form of the EMMC inviting the EMC to for a “joint study commission” to study the possibility of a complete merger. Is the bringing together of like-minded Evangelical Mennonite denominations/ churches in the new millennium of the Lord? Let’s pray about it and discuss it together. If it isn’t, we can lay this matter to rest. If it is, then let’s move ahead. I invite your response. Dave H. Dyck Winnipeg, Man. Reprinted with The EMMC Recorder's permission (June/July 2002).

Both modes of baptism used Your reports on various recent child consecrations came along in timely fashion last month while 1 was working on a little series attempting to explain, among other things, that christening and baptism are less than synonymous. 1 used two articles, especially the one by our good friend Heidi Koop, in one message.

Within the same issue (April 24) I was also delighted to find Brother Ron Penner’s article on baptism by pouring—delighted, I say, because of the modern rarity of the open discussion of particulars and specifics. Rev. Penner is to be commended for his thoughtful practicality. The only other article on affusion I can PAGE 5

recall was one 1 read before my own baptism in 1975—and it was old then. I was, however, not as surprised as Mr. Penner at “the interest in some parts of our conference in immersion.” As 1 read that introduction 1 thought immediately of the once much-circulated Didache, which has always given us a fascinating window into much of the church circa the end of its first century of existence. Regarding baptism it suggests, pragmatically, in 7:2,3a that “If you do not have running water, baptise in some other. If you cannot in cool, then in warm. If you have neither, then pour water upon the head three times....” In the sub-arctic we neither have shortages of flowing or cold water! Appreciating the validity of both modes, we find it meaningful and uncomplicated to be able to incorporate both into our ceremony. Arlyn H. van Enns Fort Chipevyyan, Alta.

DEEPLY TROUBLED BY MALAWI The June 12 issue of The Messenger came across my desk just before I break for the day. You made my day with your editorial Movie Stars or Malawi? As one who served in Malawi for six years and whose people have been a part of my thinking and intercession since, I have been deeply troubled by the latest (beyond the usual poverty and the horrendous HIV/AIDS pandemic) crisis of the drought emergency. Thank you for your clear word of admonition. Ronald J.R. Mathies Executive Director Mennonite Central Committee

Editor’s note: MCC Canada’s phone number for donations is 1-888-622-6337. MANY MISS THE HEALER’S TOUCH 1 very much enjoyed the freshness and wit you applied to the Jesus-as-Physician theme in your The Doctor is still in\ editorial (May 8). Regrettably many avoid our imperfect churches, and thereby miss the touch of the perfect Healer too. Most tme healing is effected through a synergy of not just Christ’s Spirit and Word, but along with His Body as well. Arlyn H. van Enns Fort Chipewyan, Alta.

Evening history course at U. of W. Mennonites in Canada, 1800-2000 at the University of Winnipeg Fall 2002, Wednesday evening taught by Dr. Royden Loewen for information, call 204-786-9391 Daytime courses: Mennonite Studies I, Fall 2002 History of Peace, Winter 2003 Mennonites and Gender, Winter 2003

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Betty Koop LaCrete. .Alberta

GOD’S WILL AND CIRCUMSTANCES TODAY I am looking at a fat little cream jug, ivory with an opalescent sheen and decorated with gold flowers and trim. It brings back memories of our wedding and the beginning of my life together with my very special husband. When 1 met my future husband Glen, 1 had no plans to be married to him, or to any other man, for that matter. Marriage was fine for later in life, since no one wanted to be alone in old age, but 1 had many other dreams to follow first. Fortunately, Glen came from fairly determined stock and did not give up on this rather immature young woman who thought she knew her mind. After dating for two and a half years, we were engaged and then married in August 1963. And this little jug was a lovely little present together with a matching sugar bowl and a teapot. However, I must say that if 1 believed God leads on through circumstances, then we would not have been married. There seemed to be so many obstacles in our way. Early one spring morning, soon after we had our wedding invitations printed, the phone rang. It was unusual for Glen to call me at that hour, but in my rosy haze of love 1 thought he just couldn’t resist calling! But this was not the case. My home church. Prairie Rose EMC, had been struck by lightning the previous night and had burned to the ground. Was this a direct message from God? 1 don’t remember whether we even considered it as such. We simply switched to Glen’s home church and went ahead with our plans. Then the soloist we had asked to sing at our wedding phoned to decline. Fortunately, my aunt (who was more like a special sister) agreed to take his place. The night before our wedding, though, she phoned with the tragic news that her husband’s nephew had drowned in Thunder Bay, Ontario. She needed to decide whether she should go to the funeral or stay to sing for us. 1 immediately said that her place was with her husband. We could be married without a soloist even though we had looked forward to her sharing our day with us. There were other bumps along the way, such as having money stolen from my locker at work, which was to have been used for some wedding stuff. But we were married! It was special to

have my father, Abe Unger, officiate using Psalm 23:1 as his text. A happy surprise was that my Sunday School class of 10and 11-year-old girls had secretly (with my mother’s collusion) practiced to sing Saviour, Like a Shepherd Lead Us for us immediately after the vows. No one had cuter or dearer “soloists” than we did. It was good to be surrounded by loving family and friends as we celebrated the beginning of our life together. 1 am sure God was there, giving his blessing. So, does God always lead through circumstances? Does He sometimes lead through circumstances? When we pray in our morning prayer that He will lead us through the day, what are we asking Him to do? How will we know that He is guiding us? We know God is seemingly aware of every detail of our lives. Jesus even speaks of the hairs of our head being counted (Matt. 10). What a blessing to know He is so intimately interested in each one of us. Do we need to wait for a voice inside to tell us that now it is time to clean the bathroom? Maybe we could just follow the message our nose and eyes are giving us? Perhaps that’s where the secret lies, at least to some extent. God has given us the ability to think, to see and to use our senses to realize what needs to be done. When we are yielded to him, our senses, our thoughts are yielded to him as well and He can use them to guide us. According to Jesus, it is of utmost importance to “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. This is the first and most important com­ mandment. The second most important commandment is...Love others as much as you love yourself” (Matt. 22:37-39 CEV). If these loves are firmly imbedded in us, we can trust him to guide us through the inner witness of the Holy Spirit, the outer witness of the Word, the counsel of believers, and maybe even the circumstances.

Betty and Glen Koop were married in August 1963—despite some circumstances.

THE MESSENGER

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MCC seeks to be fair to national workers Sub-Saharan Africa struggles to respond to the growing HIV/AIDS pandemic. Afghanistan's displaced peoples need long­ term aid. Famine looms for Malawi, Mozambique and Zambia. Tensions continue in the Middle East. Immigrants to North America face low wages and racism. These are the cries. And MCC seeks to respond by "sharing our life, our goods, our gifts."

WITH THE THEME Listen to my cry, MCC Bi-national, which oversees MCC Canada and MCC U.S., held its Annual General Meeting June 15-16 in Hepburn, Saskatchewan.

FINANCES In looking at overall figures, despite a shortfall in receipts in the first half of the fiscal year, MCC finished the year with $18.3 million* in receipts, two percent more than budgeted. However, “We have a problem,” Dave Worth, director of Resource Generation, said, reporting on the fiscal year ending March 31,2002. “The general line has flattened out. When the general money goes flat, we can’t pay Ron’s salary [Ron Matthies is MCC Bi­ national’s executive director], we can’t start new programs. If you go back 20 years, you will see that the designated money has provided the new money for the whole system...We want an increase in unrestricted funds.” “You want to know who is really providing the money for the organization? It’s 75,000 volunteers that you [board members]

In a Friday morning devotional Evie Schellenberg spoke of her experiences in Iran as pari of MCC’s Visitor Exchange program.

represent in various ways...in other income generation projects,” he said. Expenses for the fiscal year ending 2003 are budgeted at $23.6 million, virtually unchanged from the previous year. EQUITY AMONG WORKERS A major part of the meetings were the workshops held Friday afternoon to acquaint board members with international programs and issues. A major question, present in many discussions, is equity, or fairness, in dealing with locally appointed (national) staff and board-appointed (North American) staff. There is an imbalance in how North American workers and national workers

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are compensated for the work they do. However, giving national workers a higher salary would make it difficult for other charitable organizations who employ nationals, said Eric Rempel, an MCC Bi­ national board member representing MCC Canada. Given MCC’s commitment to “principles of operation that are non-discriminatory” {MCC Principles pamphlet), how can it be reconciled that a North-American worker living in a foreign country receives the best medical care in case of emergency while a national worker, perhaps even performing the same function, has no such safety net? In an irony that is anything but laughable, MCC struggles with how to apply its principles on justice to itself. The HIV/AIDS pandemic has brought this to the fore. In the Africa workshop, a major part of the discussion centred around how MCC should respond to national MCC workers who have contracted HIV/AIDS, whether MCC is responsible for their medical care, and, if it is responsible, to what extent. “1 think we have entered a commitment to our workers, and if we do not honour, regardless of how it’s interpreted, if we do not honour that commitment, it’s going to come back and haunt us,” said Tesfa Dallelew, an African director for MCC. MCC, in a major initiative called Generations at Risk, is currently developing plans to raise funds for HlV/AlDS related work. MCC hopes to raise $1 million of designated income in the coming year for the decade-long program, with $2 million annually coming in by the third year. To be successful, the Generations at Risk initiative requires that $1 million of new money come in this year, $750,000 from MCC and $250,000 from MCC Canada. During a workshop on HIV/AIDS, Bill Ginter, at the time Resource Generation/ Thrift Shop Co-ordinator for MCC Saskatchewan, shared that he has a difficult time raising funds from churches for this program. Some people still stmggle with feeling that people with HIV/AIDS are reaping the effects of a sinful lifestyle. Yet what about the 14-year-old girl given in marriage to a man with HlV/AlDS, and what about their babies? What have they done wrong? he asked. “We’ve seen children taking care of children, grandparents taking care of children. ..it is very emotional,” said Willie Reimer, director of Food, Disaster and Material Resources. Tesfa Dalellew said, “AIDS is a violence that is taking place.” It is a violence to which MCC seeks to respond, as it listens to the cries of people in pain. Becky Buhler, for Meetinghouse

Following the meetings, the Carlton Quackgrass Band provided the entertainment for Saturday evening’s festivities. (photos by Becky Buhler)

JULY 24, 2002

‘All financial figures are in U.S. dollars

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Pacifism is Evangelism: CPT’s Witness WHEN WE think of evangelism, images come to mind of church planting, casually telling friends about one’s faith, summer camps, overseas missions. Some images do not first come to mind: chaining oneself to a house to prevent it from being bulldozed, accompanying children to school in hope they will arrive safely, living with a family who fear they may be a target of violence, listening to stories of pain and death, participating in marches which hope to sway political leaders to address concerns for the poor and oppressed, being human shields, being arrested after breaking unjust laws, and holding prayer services at military bases. However, my experience with Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT) in the West Bank last November is persuading me to consider including these actions under the category of evangelism. Christian Peacemaker Teams is an organization that initially came out of peace traditions of Mennonite and Brethren in Christ churches, and Quaker Meetings in North America. Its goal is to be a peace witness to nations by sending teams of peacemakers to violent areas of the world to work alongside local groups working for peace. Although most of the team’s work ends up being relationship building, the goal is that these relationships will lead to being able to address core issues of violence and oppression. In the past they have had teams in South Dakota, Haiti, and Chiapas, Mexico. Members boldly tell violent parties, such as soldiers or paramilitary, that violence is not the way to peace. They often put themselves at high-risk of death to be human shields for others. They allow themselves to be arrested in order to draw attention to injustices, and other activities that are very foreign to a Canadian life. CPT currently has full-time teams in Hebron, West Bank, and Barrancabarmeja, Colombia. There is a seasonal team in Burnt Church, New Brunswick. CPT draws this model of witness directly from Jesus. In the teachings of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus tells us that we should turn the other cheek, give the thief of our cloak our garment as well and thus leave us naked. We are to, if forced to walk one mile (referring to a law that gives Roman soldiers the right to force civilians to carry their army packs as far as one mile) to go two (see Walter Wink’s chapter in Transforming Violence: Linking Local and Global Peacemaking, Herr and Herr, eds., and John H. Yoder’s The Politics of Jesus). Jesus was not trying to build a passive group of followers that would bend to any oppressing power. He was trying to build a group of people who understood that believing to include actively standing up PAGE 8

bl A CPTer runs toward a soldier to prevent shooting during a peaceful march of Palestinians of all ages—including women and children—to a mosque for prayer.

to violence and oppression with love and sacrifice, that is as pacifists, and thus reflect back to the violent offender how evil their deeds are. Jesus’ own trial and death is a wonderful example. Although he was unjustly accused and tried, he did not allow for a violent rebellion. He allowed himself to be killed. God submitted himself to humanity. In so doing he reflected back to all humanity, both the people of his present day and through all history, the imperfection of our souls. Moreover, central to Jesus’ message was forgiveness, by which we gain hope for salvation. Adopting Jesus’ example and message we are to evangelize; we are to tell of the Good News. Pacifism, a central theme in Jesus’ message, is also a fundamental characteristic of the Trinity. The return of Jesus as written in Revelation sees a lamb leading a large army. The absurdity of a lamb as an image of a great warrior demonstrates the author’s intent to demonstrate the non-violent, yet active, will of God (see Dr. Archie Penner, The Divine Covenants: Conflict or Harmony, Servant Publishers). We follow a pacifist God and our actions should thus follow. If pacifism and the theme of peace is central not only to the gospel, but to the core characteristic of God the Trinity Himself— as 1 argue it is—then this should be demonstrated in our church models, mission models and methods, our interpersonal relationships, and our view of politics. Shouldn’t our theology affect the surrounding world? Should we not “become well educated on all aspects of conflict, including soldiers’ stories, past and current; how and why decisions are made by military and political leaders; historical factors in ethnic fighting; economic factors in unrest; morality with conflict and how that effects the peace process” (Erica Fehr’s letter. The

Messenger, March 13, 2002) so we can proclaim God’s love to the peoples of the earth and ask them to trust only in Him, and not their weapons, for salvation, more effectively? Pacifism is no longer simply tacked on to our doctrine, or something of our past faith heritage, but central to our common dayto-day Christian lives to which we invite all people. This is the goal of CPT, the organization that 1 made a pilgrimage to in the Holy Land both by idea and body. In short, CPT, with all of its imperfections, tries to demonstrate a peace witness demon­ strated by Jesus. There is a third option other than kill or passively stand by and watch others be killed: pacifism, active non-violence. “Again and again...love for enemies is not utopian madness or destructive masochism but rather God’s alternative to the centuries of escalating violence that now threatens the entire planet” (Ron Sider, God’s People Reconciling, unpublished, available through CPT). That is why 1 put myself through an experience after which for about two weeks 1 jumped at every sudden sound. That is why 1 cried with families that have lost their loved ones and vowed to tell their story. What can we do in the face of violence, death, and destruction? Proclaim our faith! For more information on CPT view their website at wvvw.cpt.org or call 1-800-3182814. Reuben Penner

Rueben Penner, a member of Kola EMC, is a reservist with Christian Peacemaker Teams.

THE MESSENGER

New missionary appointments

A Hope and a Future includes Sod-Turning!

The EMC Board of Missions is pleased to announce the appointment of Anthony and Karlene Thiessen to a three-year MCC teaching assignment in Choma, Zambia. Anthony and Karlene are members of La Crete Christian Fellowship (EMC).

ON JULY FOURTH, Inner City Youth Alive put on a community barbeque to kick off another summer of kids clubs as well as a sod-turning ceremony for their building project. On hand were dozens of kids, parents and families from the neighbourhood as well as board members and other supporters of the ministry. As part of the program, Ed Reimer, a board member since the beginning of ICYA in 1986, shared some historic facts as well as the purpose and goals for the expansion project. ICYA—a Conference-supported ministry which aims to bring “a hope and a future” to inner city families through their drop-in program, woodworking shop, kids clubs, camp program and discipleship ministry to families in the inner city of Winnipeg— reached their goals in a large fund-raising effort this past year. It called for a ceremony to mark the beginning of constmction. The building addition, close to 9000 square feet, will be three stories high and will include parking for ministry vehicles, a welding shop, staff offices, counselling and class rooms, laundry facilities, an enlarged drop-in area for the Bridge

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The EMC Board of Missions is pleased to announce the appointment of Ray Eidse to career missionary service. Ray, a member of Rosenort EMC, will serve as a radio technician at Radio Mensajero, Tres Palmas, Paraguay. He will study Spanish at Rio Grande Bible Institute from August 2002 to May 2003.

program, and room for future expansion into potential ministry options. Growing opportunities means a need for more space to expand their outreach, as well as to employ more staff. Work began on the building on July 8. The desire is to use the facility sometime this fall. Drop by ICYA and encourage director Kent Dueck and his staff in their ambitious ministry at 418 Aberdeen Ave. in Winnipeg, two blocks away from Aberdeen EMC. Gerald Reimer Conference Youth Minister

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Please pray for these missionaries as they adapt to a new culture and seek to use their gifts in the Lord’s service. ►

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Teachers are needed for schools in Mexico, at Camp

67 and Oasis. Teachers will ” ■ work with local teachers who instruct in Spanish and German. Knowledge of Low German and Spanish would be a great asset, but is not required. Some instruction is in English. The positions could be short-term (one year) or career (four years). For information contact Lester Olfert at lolfert@mts.net or 204-326-6401.

JULY 24, 2002

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Participating in the sod-turning on July 4 were community members, along with ICYA board chair Chuck Brandt, board members Ed Reimer and Murray Barkman, and ICYA staff member Mark Friesen. (photos by Gerald Reimer) PAGE 9

Region 1 leaders gather at Peace River Leaders from EMC Region 1 met at Peace River Bible Institute in Sexsmith, Alta., on May 10 and 11. Region 1 consists of five churches: Vanderhoof and Burns Lake in B.C., and Grande Prairie, High Level and La Crete in Alberta. Approximately 50 people attended, although we missed our colleagues from the Burns Lake church who were unable to send a representative. The theme was Mentoring and our speaker, Ralph Unger, pastor of Ridgewood EMC in Manitoba, spoke clearly, simply and directly at sessions. His topics were The Motivating Mentor, The Mentor’s Priorities, and Giving Them a Second Chance. Friday evening Ralph also led us in an informal session which included having each person or couple give their names, a definition of servant leadership and/or their vision as leaders. From the amazing variety of definitions that came out, it seems it may not be all that simple to define. To further help us get acquainted, he divided us into five teams to work at solving a creative word puzzle highlighting our region. Lots of fun! Abe Bergen from Steinbach Bible College added to our information on the school through a report and informal visiting. It was also special to have our Conference Pastor, David Thiessen, and his wife Merna with us. He led us in a

meaningful communion service, which included sisters and brothers bestowing blessings on each other as they spoke private words of encouragement and appreciation. 1 called persons in each of the churches of our region to ask for highlights. If they could remember some a month after the event, it must have been good. Vanderhoof: “1 found it encouraging to be able to meet together, sharing ministry experiences with people who are in the same type of work.” “The communion, especially the time of blessing, was very encouraging.” Grande Prairie: “...always enjoy getting together with people from the region, feeling connected with EMC.” “Loved the fellowship time, getting to know people better.” “Ralph’s introduction session, having people give leadership definitions, was most interesting.” High Level: “...will be using the things [1] learned to train staff at Bible camp this summer, to give them devotionals on mentoring.” “Seeing so many of our elders and wives there, several for the first time, was an encouragement.” “When Ralph spoke on giving people a second chance, as God does, that spoke to me.” “Good food!” La Crete: “Excellent sessions—very basic

and very helpful.” “Enjoyed the small discussion groups with specific clear questions to guide.” “Communion was good...very close fellowship.” “Enjoyed the whole thing; refreshing, empowering to hear that we should be models, even if it’s not a comfortable concept. Ralph’s sessions were encouraging.” Betty Koop

fcw '■Abe Braun, from Grande Prairie, and Conference Pastor David Thiessen enjoy a laugh together.

I

Coffee break was a special time to renew friendships and meet new people. PAGE 10

Weekend speaker Ralph Unger (front right), and Richard Klassen of High Level wait for a session to begin. THE MESSENGER

3 years becomes 19! Steinbach EMC: When Arden Thiessen came to our church in 1983, his commitment to our church, we were told, was for three years, maybe six. On June 23, 2002, 19 years later, we celebrated his farewell! And so on this Sunday morning we reflected on that time of service. According to our pastor of discipleship, Hans Rahn, Mr. Thiessen maintained that this was not retirement. There still would be teaching at SBC, gardening and maybe writing books. This reflection included giving thanks, a meditation set for reading by leader and congregation. The meditation was called Thariksgiuing for our Pastoral Couple. Mr. Rahn said he could well list different achievements but that wouldn’t give the

true picture. “1 would suggest,” he said “we’ve had a man of God.” To support this, he read out of Eph. 3:7-9. He added that God had given Mr. Thiessen a strong ability to preach the word of God: “We’ve been encouraged. You’ve inspired us.” Others were called on to give tributes: Helen and Henry Fast: “After 19 years his sermons are still fresh. Arden and Helen, we thank God for your minisry in the Steinbach EMC.” John Dyck remembered that early in the week Arden would already be going on the next sermon. Mr. Dyck also brought regards from the Steinbach Ministerial Association. Brenda Penner remarked what a blessing Mr. Thiessen has been to us. She also read tributes from Albert and Edna Martens, Germany; Luella .-yy

Reyn Kroeker, church council chair, presents gift certificates to Arden and Helen Thiessen while co-chair Henry Nickel looks on.

Toews, MCC, Switzerland; Leanne Warkentine, Winnipeg; and Elmer and Elvira Warkentin, Toronto, Verna Reimer presented a Memory Book to Thiessens. Finishing this part of the service was a solo Thank You by Steve Friesen and the congregational hymn Great is Thy Faithfulness. Closing remarks by our pastor suggested that the best church in the country is looking for a pastor, but no one is pounding on the door to get in. He remarked that it had been an easy church to pastor. “You have been good to us. Thank you very much.” A fellowship lunch for the congregation followed the morning service. DaveK. Schellenberg

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Helen and Henry Fast give a farewell tribute to Arden and Helen Thiessen.

A church is like a tree Stony Brook (Steinbach, Man.): As 1 look out my window and gaze at our trees, 1 see small buds and young leaves beginning to unfold and flourish. In a short time, the leaves will reach maturity producing beautiful trees and welcome shade in the days to come. Each tree has strength and character of its own, each has its own unique beauty. The same idea hold.s true for Christians. We begin life in Christ as young buds, eager to grow, eager to learn. We grow stronger as we weather the many storms of life and bask in the sunshine of God’s amazing love and grace. Maturing Christians are beautiful people who provide refuge and inspiration to younger Christians. At Stony Brook, we celebrated with Lee Anne Poirier and George Wiens as they took a public stand for Christ through baptism on May 5. They desire to grow spiritually as they follow Christ. We were happy to add new members to our church family that day as well: Lee JULY 24, 2002

Ann Poirier, George and Rebecca Wiens, Mark and Erica Quiring, Allan Harder, and Jillian Poirier. As each member shared a testimony, we heard how God worked uniquely in each life, drawing each person to follow Him. A bridal shower was held for Jen Funk and Erin Koop. This was our largest ladies

h' Mark Quiring and Allan Harder became members of Stony Brook on May 5.

event ever. The brides-to-be were overwhelmed at the ladies’ support and generosity. Helen Rempel gave a short devotional sprinkled with tidbits of advice for those who are married, and those yet to be married. It was a fun, refreshing evening. On Saturday, June 1, the men of SBF showed their support for Roger Penner (who married Jen) and Andrew Unger (who is to marry Erin Koop). They were the guests of honour at an evening barbecue; a challenging devotional by pastor Earl Unger followed. Both men received gift certificates for Canadian Tire to spend as they please. This gesture of kindness was greatly appreciated. As SBF grows and flourishes, I pray we may continually mature, offering love, acceptance, safety, and refuge for those who enter our doors. 1 hope people can see our beauty and character as we seek to be more and more like Christ. Doreen Penner PAGE 11

People join LCCF by birth, baptism, and transfer La Crete, Alta.:

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Members were added to La Crete Christian Fellowship through baptism and transfer on April 28, 2002: (back) Rudy Janzen, Wayne Peters, Nathaniel Siemens, Bernie Friesen, Carrie Munro, (middle) Andy Wiebe, Calvin Elias, Dan and Mary Ann Fehr, Annie and Ray Wiebe, (front) Diana and Andrew Wiebe, Suzanne Fehr, Chris Fehr, Nicola Sherman, Jennifer Banman, and Bev Harms. Pastoral couple Glen and Betty Koop stands on the left.

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A parent-child dedication was held May 26. Participating were (back) Ed and Darlene Bergen with Emma, Becky and Gordie Banman with Cassidy, Jeff and Kay Hollinshead with Mackenzie, (middle) Mike and Dora Schellenberg with Spencer, George and Bonnie Fehr with Matheo, Trudy and Darryl Friesen with Karmen, Ray and Annie Wiebe with Wyatt, (front) Bill and Melanie Driedger with Madison and Mitchell, Lisa and Kevin Wolfe with Amber, and Michelle and Dale Wiebe with Journey. Mimi Friesen

Carrying the cross in Taber Taber, Alta.: Taber EMC once again took part in Taber’s third annual Cross Walk this year. This event takes place on Good Friday. Participating churches of Taber carry a wooden cross to several different churches of the Taber ministerial. At each stop at the different churches, there is a reading of part of the Easter story, we sing a song, and the pastor of the church makes a few comments and prays. This event is important for the fact that is makes us realize that we are all serving the same awesome God, no matter what denomination we are from. What a joy it is to see people committing their lives to the Lord Jesus! On November 25, 2001, four young people were baptised into the body of Christ. Pastor Edwin Plett baptised David Klassen, Kathy Wiebe, Tina Fehr, and David Wiebe. A ladies’ breakfast was held on Saturday, March 9. The guest speaker was Diane Lang. Mrs. Lang is the mother of Jason Lang, a teenage boy who was killed in a school shooting in April 1998. She gave a

%

very powerful testimony. The ladies all felt blessed to have her there. We had revival meetings from March 813. We were privileged to have Jacob Funk from Winnipeg, Manitoba, come speak to us. Mr. Funk is involved in a Low German radio program called the Family Network. The program is aired on 25 different radio stations around the world. Also in March we had an all-male choir

from the Coaldale Mennonite Church come minister to us in song. We took up an offering for a seniors’ home that’s being built in Zeporogje, Ukraine. The Mennonite Benevolent Association of Manitoba has been given an old building by Ukraine’s government. The people there are all very excited about this important project. Tina Wiebe

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Four young people baptised on November 25, 2001—David Klassen, Kathy Wiebe, Tina Fehr, and David Wiebe.

PAGE 12

Abe Wiebe, Abe Bueckert, and Maria Wall carry the front of the cross at Taber’s third annual Cross Walk. Pastor Edwin Plett Is on the left.

THE MESSENGER

professors Corey Herlevsen, Gord Penner Harvey Plett, along with EMMC and Leaders study Evangelical Anabaptism and EMC leaders Jack Heppner, David Experienced missionaries and newcomers to the Mennonite church together explored Introduction to EuangelicalAnabaptism, a Tri-Conference

course held April 22 to 26 on the campus of Steinbach Bible College, an event co­ sponsor. Instructors of the course were SBC

■

Instructors and students gathered for a photo during the Introduction to Evangelical Anabaptism course taught at SBC from April 22 to 26. (photos by editor| ■■sisft’

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Students ponder Gord Penner’s presentation on love in all relationships.

Thiessen, Frank Zacharias and Allen Kehler. Lecture topics included why study Evangelical Anabaptism, the Anabaptist vision, discipleship, community, love in all relationships, mission, and the Anabaptist story. Activities included a visit to a Hutterite colony, a tour of Mennonite Heritage Museum, watching of videos, debriefings, and a wrap-up panel discussion. The course was designed to provide a broad overview of Evangelical Anabaptist theology and history to ministers not raised within a Mennonite church setting or whose ministerial training was outside of Anabaptist institutions. About a dozen people took the course. Beyond ministers currently serving in a pastorate, SBC students, and experienced missionaries Paul Thiessen (Burkina Faso) and Dora Friesen (Mexico, retired) were involved. Gord Penner spoke on the Mennonite peace position, saying that it involves more than avoidance of warfare. David Thiessen spoke on missions, drawing on his master’s thesis that identifies the sixteenth-century Mennonite church as a missionary movement with active lay involvement. He encouraged people to get to know their spiritual heritage as part of the Mennonite church. Terry M. Smith

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MEDA BOLIVIA GETS AWARD! ASOPROF, a national bean association formed with help from Mennonite Economic Development Associates in Bolivia, was awarded the Premia Exportador (Export Award) this spring for being the second-largest agribusiness exporter in the region, with over $1.2 million in bean exports. They came second only to a large soybean exporter. This is a major accomplishment for MEDA Bolivia, which has provided crucial support to ASOPROF in the past three years. Here ASOPROF manager Juan Carlos Barrios receives the award from the president of the Chamber of Exporters. (meda)

LOEWEN HEADS RESTORATIVE JUSTICE James Loewen, returned from almost three years with MCC in Jamaica, began his term as restorative justice coordinator with MCC Canada on May 13,2002. A multidisciplinary master’s degree and a certificate of conflict resolution led Loewen to Jamaican Theological Seminary. He taught courses in church and family violence as well as conflict resolution in schools. An upcoming project is coordinating The Gathering, an annual event that brings together both MCC-related programs as well as the wider restorative justice community. MCC

JULY 24. 2002

PAGE 13

Menno Hamm returned to El Pa.so, Texas

SAUDER TO GUIDE MEDA Allan Sauder has been appointed president-elect of Mennonite Economic Development Associates. Sauder, 49, has been with MEDA for 15 years, since 1998 as executive vice-president. A native of St. Jacobs, Ontario, Sauder holds a bachelor of science degree and a master of business administration degree in international business. MEDA

FREY TO LEAD TEN THOUSAND VILLAGES CANADA Marvin Frey will be the new executive director of Ten Thousand Villages Canada effective September 1, 2002. He brings a wealth of MCC experience in Canada and overseas, and is currently director of Canadian Foodgrains Bank. He is a member of Aberdeen EMC. Originally from St. Jacobs, Ontario, Frey will direct the operations, which is headquartered in New Hamburg. MCC PAGE 14

A CHARMING LADY ELIZABETH, the Queen Mother, impressed millions with her charm and grace throughout her long life. Those who knew her suffered a keen sense of loss following her death on March 30 this year. She was 101, having outlived her husband. King George VI, by 50 years. “During her long and extraordinary life,” said UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, “her grace, her sense of duty and her remarkable zest for life made her loved and admired by people of all ages and backgrounds.” Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon was born August 4, 1900, into a large family, the ninth of ten children of a Scottish earl. Shy Prince Albert, the second son of King George V and Queen Mary, won Elizabeth’s hand in marriage. At the time of their wedding in 1923, neither of them foresaw that they were destined for the throne of the Commonwealth. Nor did they desire such a role. Following George V’s death in 1936, Albert’s older brother was crowned Edward VIII. But the new king was not at ease. He could not remain king if he married Wallis Simpson, the woman he loved, who was a twice-divorced American. Before the year was over, Edward abdicated. And so, reluctantly, Albert became king, and Elizabeth his queen. She was concerned about the effect this change would have on her shy, stammering husband, now known as George VI. But she was determined to stand by her husband, and helped him become a respected king. Though they had not asked for the role, they took it on with an unfailing commitment, including visits to member nations of their far-flung Commonwealth. Thus, in 1939, the royal couple came to Canada, crossing the country by royal train, and stopping in cities along the way. When my parents learned that the King and Queen would stop over in Regina, they decided to take their family to see them. Dad had recently purchased a twoton truck for their business and, with a tarp over the box to shelter five of their six children, we embarked on the fourhour trip. Not long ago I asked my older sisters and brother about their recollections of the event, and we shared our memories. I was surprised to learn that the initiative came from our parents and not from the

pleading of the children. Upon our arrival in Regina, we soon found a place to park adjacent to the King and Queen’s route. The truck box gave us a vantage point for an unobstructed view of the procession. We think the entourage paused near that point to be entertained by a choir from the Grey Nuns Hospital. The colour and pageantry impressed us. King George looked properly formal and serious, while Queen Elizabeth won the hearts of the crowd with her smile and friendly wave. All too soon they were gone and we began the long journey home. Apparently we stopped at a railway crossing along the way to watch the royal train roll by, giving us one more glimpse of the King and Queen waving from the observation deck. What caused our parents to make such an effort, coming as it did toward the close of the Great Depression in Saskatchewan? Was it was partly because the Queen was born the same year as my mother? Whatever motivated them, 1 am thankful they did it. Their example taught us to respect and appreciate not only the King and Queen, but also our country and its government that they headed. Since that memorable day, the picture of the King and Queen hanging at the front of our school classroom had new significance. Having seen the royal couple in person, I became more appreciative of my country and what it stood for. Queen Elizabeth was a charming lady indeed. Today 1 am reminded again that Paul advocated honour and respect for those in authority: “Pray for kings and all those in authority” he urged (1 Timothy 2:1-2). And Peter added, “Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every authority instituted among men” (1 Peter2:13-14).

12th

annual Winnipeg Prophecy Conference Be always ready to give an answer... (1 Peter 3:15)

October 3-5 Immanuel Pentecostal Church 955 Wilkes Ave., Winnipeg, Man. Phone: 204-888-7270

THE MESSENGER

ARON REIMER 1924-2002 After a brief battle with leukemia, Aron Reimer passed away at home, with his loving wife Elizabeth and several family members at his side. We are grateful for the assurance we have that he now enjoys eternal life with Jesus. Aron was bom in Landmark, Manitoba, on February 18, 1924, to Isaac and Sarah Reimer. It was in this community that he was raised and received his formal education. As the youngest son in a large family, he stayed home and eventually took over the family farm, where he ran a dairy

until 1969 when the family moved to Hudson Bay, Saskatchewan, and farmed in this area until retiring. As one of their peers, Aron developed a special relationship with his nieces and nephews, enjoying social times as well as working together. Aron grew up attending the Prairie Rose EMC, where he accepted Jesus as his Saviour and Lord and was baptised at the age of 16. As a part of living out his beliefs and convictions, he served as a Conscientious Objector (CO) working in bush camps and as a farm labourer. Throughout his life, Aron was involved in church, serving as Sunday school teacher and church board chairman. He also served as a school tmstee. Soon after returning home from his CO duty, Aron’s life was changed when Elizabeth Sawatzky, a single schoolteacher, came to board in the Reimer home. Although dedicated to work on the farm, Aron, being a considerate gentleman, could sometimes be persuaded to provide transportation for the teacher when the weather was inclement. It was soon apparent that more than a sense of duty was involved when this relationship led to marriage. Into the home they established were born: William (Donna), Dennis (Ruth), Irene (Fred), Elfrieda (Charles), Sandra (Vic),

and Wesley (Lenora). Family gatherings were always special times, and as in-laws and grandchildren came along, they were welcomed with open arms. What a joy to hear several generations of Reimers singing about the Lord each one loves. As various children moved to other areas. Dad and Mom showed their love by staying in touch and visiting whenever possible. Aron was predeceased by his parents, Isaac and Sarah (Plett) Reimer, six brothers, three sisters, and three grandchildren. He is survived by his loving wife Elizabeth, six children and their spouses, twenty grandchildren, two great­ grandchildren, one brother, two sisters, four brothers-in-law and six sisters-in-law. Words from a favourite hymn express Aron’s belief and bring comfort to us, his family: My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus blood and righteousness... On Christ the solid rock I stand. All other ground is sinking sand. His Family

SBC I7LLLlLLVLLL0 is pleased to present

its fifth annual Bible Study guide

LIVING TR.UTH

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Written by Dr. Terry - Hiebert, t/V/NC TRUTH explores I twelve basic doctrines .!I of the church.

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i LIVING ■“HS- Discussion questions. I Scripture passages, and worship suggestions provide excellent material for a group study series.

All books and Leader Guides are $5!copy

Order now for fall classes call

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MDS 2002 Wildfire Response - Marvin Brubaker, Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) Colorado Unit chair, examines a charred fencepost burned by the Iron Mountain fire. Thousands of acres and hundreds of homes have already been damaged or destroyed by multiple fires across an eight-state area. The binational MDS office has opened an investigation and is accepting contributions to fund a long-term reconstruction response that will involve volunteers from throughout North America. MDS may use volunteer labor to repair or rebuild damaged property in Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, California, Utah, Wyoming, Montana or the Dakotas. Contributions to the wildfire response may be sent to 134 Plaza Drive, Winnipeg, MB R3T 5K9. Additional information will be posted at www.mds.mennonite.net/2002wildfires.html. Iphoto: Paul Unruh, MDS)

JULY 24, 2002

l/LLLLdVLLLtr Biblical Trainingjor the Church

Steinbach Bible College Box 1420 • Steinbach, MB • ROA 2A0

PAGE 15

GEORGE F. EIDSE 1934-2002 It is with our very deepest sorrow to announce that on April 30, 2002, George Eidse, age 68, loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather passed away. With his family by his side, he peacefully entered into eternal rest with our Lord. George was born on March 11, 1934. He grew up on his family farm in Riverside, Man., and always felt deep pride connected to it. He gave his life to the Lord at the age of 17. He followed the Lord in baptism on May 24, 1953. On September 25,1955, Dad married the love of his life, Elma Wiebe. After selling the family farm in 1993 Mom and Dad moved to a house in Morris. Dad was a conscientious and hard­ working provider. Work was a major part of his life, his main career being farming. He worked at a variety of off-season jobs. Mom and Dad were a team, whether in farming, in gardening together, or in delivering bins. Some of Dad’s many accomplishments were: serving in numerous different church committees, being a member of the Riverside Co-op board, playing hockey on the Regals hockey team and later coaching them. Dad’s deep faith in God impacted every aspect of his life and those around him. Dad demonstrated a courageous spirit when he was diagnosed with cancer. After several day surgeries during the course of a year, he was cancer free for 15 years. We are so grateful to the Lord for healing, for which Dad always gave God the glory. In October 1998 Dad was diagnosed with a more progressive bladder cancer. Three trips to Tijuana were made to the Bio Clinic for alternative medical treatments. All the scans in the year that followed showed the tumour reducing in size, and finally he was pronounced clear. Dad praised God for healing. In February 2002 after many tests Dad was diagnosed with a form of pulmonary fibrosis. He was admitted to the hospital on February 18, spending three and a half weeks there on oxygen. He returned home on March 13, continuing with oxygen 24 hours a day. PAGE 16

He was stricken with double pneumonia and was re-admitted into the hospital on April 27. His brave determination and outstanding will to live shone through especially in his last words to Mom: “I don’t want to leave you behind, my darling. Just keep looking up.” Dad has always showed a real concern for each of his children to accept and live for our Heavenly Father. Dad left a legacy of loving and care giving for Mom and the family. He was an outgoing encourager who deeply cared about people. Dad’s sense of humour is what we love so much and will greatly miss. Even in his final days his comical nature never slowed. He had us laughing shortly before the ambulance came, also in the hospital, and even in the funeral chapel as we recalled his many humorous lines. The sense of humour Dad displayed has been an enormous strength through many a trying time for our family. He is predeceased by his parents, David and Elizabeth Eidse. His siblings, Abe, Lena and Martha, and five in infancy also predeceased him. On April 30, 2002, at 1:15 a.m.. Dad passed away at the Victoria General Hospital. He leaves to mourn his beloved wife of 46 and a half years, Elma; three daughters, two sons, eight grandchildren and one great-grand­ daughter: Wanda and Merl Friesen with children Ainsley and Evan; Darlene and Orville Goossen with children Desiree, John and Megan Wiebe; Sherisse and James Brandt; Kelli; Bev and Howard Brown, with daughters Chantel and Nikki; Rick Eidse; and Doug and Lorie Eidse with

son Soren. Dad is also survived by six brothers, four sisters and special twin sister Myrtle Brandt. We know that Dad has started a new beginning with his Creator although we feel our loss profoundly; we anticipate a full family reunion. We love you, Dad. Rest in peace. Elma Eidse and Family

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY, DAD Hi. It’s just me wondering how heaven must be? Hope your first Father’s Day in Heaven's the best. You can tell jokes, laugh and talk without rest. Bet your crown is way too heavy to wear! The jewels on it must be veiy rare. Your memories are so special, and so very near. Some bring a smile and others bring a tear. Are you lonely up there in your new life? Do you miss your family and your wife? It's so empty here without you, Dad. Our hearts are heavy, and we’re so sad.

So many battles you had to fight. So many reassurances ‘TH be alright." You weren't ready to leave Mom yet. God's plan we don't understand and just don’t get. You are in a better place, this we know. We just weren’t ready to let you go. Just wanted you to know we miss you a lot. Thanks for all the love, joy and the good we were taught. Love you and Happy Father's Day, Dad

Bev (Eidse) Brown

On November 17, pray for persecuted church On November 17, churches across Canada will join Christians around the world in praying for those who are persecuted. Every day in more than 60 countries 200 million men, women and children face discrimination, persecution and even death for loving Jesus Christ. This year’s theme is Paul’s plea in Colossians 4:18 to “remember my chains.” Like Paul, there are Christians today who are in chains for the Gospel of Jesus. International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (IDOP Canada) is asking Canadian churches to pray especially for Pakistan, Turkmenistan, Sudan and LaosA'ietnam. IDOP Canada is preparing a resource kit to assist congregations, groups or friends to

pray effectively. IDOP Canada is a partnership between the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada’s Religious Liberty Commission, Open Doors with Brother Andrew (Canada), Voice of the Martyrs (Canada), The Bible League and Partners International (Canada). For information and to order kits, go to www.idop.ca. Resource kits include a four minute video, a PowerPoint presentation, suggested songs, a speakers list, a sermon outline, a 21-day devotional guide, children’s materials and country prayer profiles. Kits are $20 before or $25 after September 1 (tax included). IDOP

THE MESSENGER

Playroom Workshop and the Amaranth Homecoming Committee. Reuben was a member of the Lutheran Church in Waldersee and later of the Amaranth Gospel Mission Church. Since residing in Portage, they attended the Portage Evangelical Church (EMC). Reuben enjoyed camping and fishing and traveling with his wife Frieda. He especially loved the times when his family was all together.

REUBEN OSWALD 1914-2002 Reuben was born on October 7, 1914, son of Samuel and Eva Oswald at Bernie, Manitoba. He grew up in a family of 14 children on the family homestead, and attended Falmouth School. He was employed at the gypsum mine at Amaranth and later commercial fished on Lake Manitoba. In 1936 he married Frieda Hanke and they farmed in the Falmouth area until 1974 when they moved to Amaranth. Reuben and Frieda had five children—

Donald (Noreen), Jerry, Patricia (Kris), Jim (Marilyn), Gene (Roberta); 15 grandchildren—Shawn (Christine), Dana, Alanna (Jerad), Mark (Valerie), Darren (Jolene), Esther (Willis), Johnathon (Trista), Jerad, Tannis, Robert, Troy, Scott, Vaugn, Brent (Linda), Ryan; and 10 great­ grandchildren—Sarah, Levi, Jacoba, Ciera, Joseph, Nathan, Cassidy, Collin, Brandon and Ashley. He was predeceased by one granddaughter, Tara; seven brothers— John, Sam, Roy, Bill, Aby, Matt and Arnold; and two sisters—Carolyn and Natalie. He leaves to mourn one brother Fred (Violet) and three sisters, Elsie, Emma (Lavern), and Vi (Alvin). Reuben was very active in the Amaranth community in the following: Village Council for 15 years. Board of Directors on the Amaranth Credit Union for 29 years (three years as chairman), councilor on the L.G.D. of Alonsa for four years, Neepawa Hospital for 12 years. Amaranth Gospel Mission Church board of many years. Whitemud Watershed Committee, the Amaranth Work Project which developed Creative

KLASS R REIMER 1918-2002 Our father, grandfather and great­ grandfather, Klass P. Reimer, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 16,2002, at the Ste. Anne Hospital. Dad was born in the Blumenort area on February 16,1918, and reached the age of 84 years. He grew up and received his education in the Prairie Rose (Landmark) area, where his parents Isaac R. and Sara Reimer pioneered. Dad was baptized upon the confession of his faith on July 12, 1936, at Prairie Rose and was a member of the Prairie Rose Evangelical Mennonite Church, attending faithfully, until he was not able to drive anymore. He was married to our mother, Jessie Loewen, on November 30, 1941, sharing 56 years together. They lived with Dad’s parents at first, then in various locations in the Landmark area, and also spent several

winters in lumber camps. He lost a finger in a farming accident, and later another one in a sawing accident at the lumber camp. Most of his working years, he was employed at Super Crete (now LaFarge Canada Inc.) in St. Boniface. Many of his evenings in the summertime were spent with gardening and yard work. Later, as Mom’s health failed. Dad also contributed to the household needs and Mom’s health needs, especially after Marilynn passed away. Dad never complained in any of these tasks. After Mom passed away. Dad was often very lonely, spending much time listening to his cassette tapes and Christian radio programs. Highlights for him were the weekly Bible studies and congregate meals at the Prairie Rose Apartments, also the Niverville Day Program, which he was hesitant to attend at first. Soon he really enjoyed the new friends he made there, and wouldn’t miss it for anything. One of the last words he said on Sunday was “1 am going to go to Niverville tomorrow!” This was Dad’s best Father’s Day ever, as he often expressed his loneliness for Mom and Marilynn, and his desire to join them. Dad was hesitant to have eye surgery, but was thrilled to be able to read without glasses after the first surgery, and see much better overall after the second one two months ago. He leaves to mourn his passing one daughter, Sheila and Merle Koop of Kleefeld, Man., with children Holly, Joshua, Jethro, and Tyler; three sons, Ernie

and Mary Anne of Niverville, Man., with children Lloyd (Corinne) and Conrad (Carla); Edmer and Betty of Lorette, Man., with children Nathan (Tammy), Deena (Chris) Reed, Linsay (Shaun) Friesen; Patrick and Joanne of Foxwarren, Man., with children Matthew (fiancee Cindy Friesen), Justin (Corrine), and Nicole; and three great grandchildren. He is survived by two sisters, Sarah Friesen and Elsie Toews; sisters-in-law Annie Reimer, Gertrude Reimer, Mary Reimer, Betty Reimer; and brothers-in-law Frank P. Plett and Lome Toews. He is also survived by seven brothers-in-law and 10 sisters-in-law on Mom’s side of the family. Dad was predeceased by his wife Jessie in 1998; daughter Marilynn in 1991; granddaughter Jacquie Koop in 1984; his parents, Isaac and Sara; 10 brothers and sisters, Helena, David, Marie, Katherina, Abram, Isaac, Peter, John, Frank, Aron, eight in-laws, and one brother-in-law on Mom’s side of the family. The funeral service for Klass P. Reimer was held Thursday, June 20,2002, at Prairie Rose EMC, Landmark, Man. Interment was in the churchyard cemetery. We, as a family, want to express our gratitude to the home care staff, all of the people involved in the Niverville Day Program, and all those who visited him, brought home cooked food, took him out for coffee or meals, or visiting elsewhere. Donations in memory of Klass may be made to EMC Missions. Arrangements entrusted to Birchwood Funeral Chapel.

JULY 24, 2002

His Family

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His Family

PAGE 17

ISAAC R. WIEBE 1916-2002 On Friday, June 7, 2002, at the Portage District General Hospital, Isaac Wiebe of Portage la Prairie and formerly of MacGregor, Manitoba, widower of the late Tina Wiebe, passed away at the age of 85 years. Funeral service was held at the Portage Evangelical Church (EMC) on Tuesday, June 11, with Pastor LeRoy Barkman officiating. Isaac was born on November 18, 1916, the son of George and Anna Wiebe at Winkler, Manitoba, where he was raised and received his education in the Burwaldy district. He then started to farm in the Winkler district. In 1938 he married

Tina Penner and they continued to farm at Winkler until 1952 when they moved to MacGregor. Here they farmed until their retirement in 1975 when they moved to reside in Portage la Prairie. At Portage he was employed at Smith Motors as custodian until his retirement. Isaac was a member of the Portage Evangelical Church. He centred his life around his family and the farm and always maintained a keen interest in agriculture. In his earlier years he enjoyed playing ball and hockey. Later he enjoyed watching ball on television. Predeceased by his wife in 1997, one daughter Evelyn and grandson Stanley Wiebe, six brothers and five sisters, he leaves to mourn his passing his three sons, Isaac (Edna) of Gladstone, John (Anne) of Portage la Prairie and Peter (Fern) of Carberry; one daughter Kathy (Bernie) McCartney, nine grandchildren, 17 great­ grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. Should friends so desire, memorial donations may be made to the charity of their choice. The Omega Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Friends may leave a message and sign the register book at vvvvw.omegafuneralhome.com “Where life stories live on.” His Family

QAJedctLags EDWARDS - MARION: Justin, son of Ron and Kim Edwards of Otterburne, Man., and Jackie, daughter of Roger and Lorraine Marion of llesDes-Chenes, Man., were married on August 18, 2001, at Morris Fellowship Chapel with Ward Parkinson of Morris, Man., officiating. The couple lives in Steinbach, Man. KLASSEN - LOEWEN: Abe, son of Abe and Helen Klassen of Morris, Man., and Bonnie, daughter of Ben and Joan Loewen of Morris, were married October 20, 2001, at Morris Fellowship Chapel with Loren Pullman of Winnipeg, Man., officiating. The couple lives in Morris. BRAUN - THIESSEN: Daryl Braun and Aganetha Thiessen were married on January 5, 2002, with Ron Penner of Winnipeg, Man., officiating. The couple lives in Winnipeg. FRIESEN - MARTENS: Willie Friesen and Jacquie Martens were married on April 12, 2002. METHERAL - WHITE: Perry James Metheral of Calgary, Alta., and Michelle Annette White of Calgary were married April 20, 2002, at Abbeydale Christian Fellowship in Calgary with Charles Koop of Calgary officiating. The couple lives in Calgary. BRAUN - GOERTZEN: Jason, son of Henry and the late Olga Braun of La Crete, Alta., and Bonnie, daughter of Peter and Margaret Goertzen of La Crete, were married on May 18, 2002, at the La Crete Museum site with Peter Janzen of La Crete officiating. PAGE 18

KOOP - ZACHARIAS; Dwayne, son of Art and Thelma Koop of Greenland, Man., and Pamela, daughter of Dan and Diana Zacharias of Morden, Man., were married on May 18, 2002, in Morden with Lawrence Klassen of Morden officiating. The couple lives in Three Hills, Alta. FUNK - PLETT: David, son of Elmer and Brenda Funk of Ste. Anne, Man., and Kendra, daughter of Waldon and Eileen Plett of Riverton, Man., were married on June 1, 2002, at Riverton Gospel Chapel.

SEEKING TO BE FAITHFUL This is the story of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference written by Dr. Harvey Plett. Price: $5

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Order thmughynurrhun-h or fniiii the Confcrenw office, hsstage for mail orders is 82.(10 for one copy Evangelical Mennonite Conference Box 1268, Steinbach, MB ROA 2A0

PLETT - to Scott and Marcia Plett of Landmark, Man., a son, Jonah Markus William, on May 15, 2001. PLETT - to Aime and Sandy Plett, a daughter, Sydney Nicole, on May 18, 2001. ROGALSKY - to Tim and Deb Rogalsky of Landmark, Man., a son, Philip Paul, on June 19, 2001. REIMER - to Travis and Tracy Reimer of Landmark, Man., a daughter, Victoria Rae, on June 20, 2001. PLETT - to Tim and Jenny Plett of Landmark, Man., a son, Christopher Henry, on June 25, 2001. MACDONALD - to Darrell and Angela MacDonald of Landmark, Man., a son, Alexander James David, on October 8, 2001. REIMER - to Brian and Carla Reimer of Landmark, Man., a daughter, Chloe Ellen Grace, on November 9, 2001. FUNK - to Jeremy and Helena Funk of Landmark, Man., a son, Zacchaeus Wilmer, on December 28, 2001. PLETT - to Mike and Deidre Plett of Landmark, Man., a son, Callum Isaac, on January 10, 2002. DICK - to Scott and Robin Dick of Landmark, Man., a son, Dawson Michael, on January 16, 2002. FRIESEN - to Reg and Rhonda Friesen of Rosenort, Man., a daughter, Reanna Marie, on January 19, 2002. KROEKER - to Wes and Myra Kroeker of Mitchell, Man., a daughter, Tyana Lee, born March 5, 2001, placed in their home January 25, 2002. REIMER - to Ernest and Sherridan Reimer of Virden, Man., a son, Bryden Dominik, on January 26, 2002. PLETT - to Nathan and Barb Plett of Landmark, Man., a son, Owen Christopher Louis, on February 25, 2002. LEBLANC - to Patrick and Rhonda LeBlanc of Landmark, Man., a son, Shane Allan, on March 5, 2002. GRETSINGER - to Mark and Lisa Gretsinger of Steinbach, Man., a son, Rayce Carter, on March 13, 2002. PLETT - to Kris and Andrea Plett of Landmark, Man., a son, Ryan Kristopher, on March 13,2002. UNGER - to Jason and Bonita Unger of Winnipeg, Man., a daughter, Emma Jane, on March 22, 2002. EDWARDS - to Justin and Jackie Edwards of Niverville, Man., a daughter. Trinity Hope, on April 11, 2002. BANMAN - to Frank and Agatha Banman of Grassy Lake, Alta., a daughter, Martha, on April 26, 2002. WALL - to Pete and Anna Wall of Grassy Lake, Alta., a son, Isaiah Jericho, on May 2, 2002. HEDGER - to Travis and Melanie Hedger of Hudson Bay, Sask., a daughter, Rachel Mae, on May 10, 2002. WIEBE - to Ray and Annie Wiebe of La Crete, Alta., a son, Wyatt Raymond, on May 15, 2002. NEUFELD - to Wes and Kathy Neufeld of La Crete, Alta., a daughter, Halie Angela, on June 3, 2002.

THE MESSENGER

Tlie Evangelical Mennonite Conference office requires a full-time secretary effective mid-August 2002. The candidate should have a strong Christian character; good communication and computer skills; and an ability to coordinate multiple tasks in areas of responsibilities with the Board of Missions, Board of Tnistees, and the General Board. Please submit a letter of application and resume by mail (Box 1268, Steinbach, MB ROA 2A0), fax (204-326-1613) or e-mail (emconf@mts.net) to Len Barkman, EMC General Secretary, at the national office. MCC Ontario seeks a global education/ communications coordinator. The individual is to be knowledgeable about MCC and Ontario constituency, and be skilled in communication and population education. It’s preferred the coordinator work out of the Kitchener office. The position is .8 to full-time. The deadline is August 15. Inquiries and application requests may be directed to Cath Woolner, MCC, 50 Kent Ave., Kitchener, Ont. N2G 3R1, phone 519-745-8458, or e-mail cathw@mennonltecc.on.ca

St Vital EMC in Winnipeg, Man., seeks a pastor of congregational life and outreach to work at equipping, organising, preaching and teaching alongside the present pastor of family and counselling. Our church is a vibrant and involved growing congregation. Enquire for a job description and church profile at awlnd@hotmail.com or in writing to pastoral search committee, c/o 10 Kenneth St., Winnipeg, MB R3T 0K8. Community Bible Fellowship Christian School invites applications for teaching positions: grades 4 to 6 teacher and high school teacher, social studies and language arts. CBF Christian School is located in Swan River, Man. It is a K-12 school with about 70 students and seven teachers. CBFCS is sponsored by an Evangelical Mennonite church, but has a diverse staff and student population. The candidate must be a born-again Christian, hold a valid teacher’s certificate, and provide a pastoral reference. Salary depends on experience and a benefits package is available. Visit our website www.cbtcs.swan-river.mb.ca; inquire with principal Leslie Leask at 204-734-2174; or send resumes to CBFCS, Box 1630, Swan River, MB ROL 1Z0 or by fax to 204-734-5706.

MCC Canada has the following opportunity in the Winnipeg office: Low German program coordinator. Overseas Services Department (available September 1, 2002). Excellent communication skills and an understanding of Low German speaking communities throughout the Americas is essential for this highly relational position. This position could be shared by a couple. Also required is a computer services manager for Winnipeg office to administer their computer services department and provide technical support to provincial MCC offices. Experience is required with Lotus Notes, Corel Office Suite, Blackband Raiser’s Edge, Great Plains Dynamics, FundVISION, Citrix Metaframe and in supporting a Windows NT and Windows 9x network. The complete job description can be found under “Get Involved” at www.mcc.org. All MCC workers are expected to exhibit a commitment to personal Christian faith and discipleship, active church membership and nonviolent peacemaking. Contact Marsha Jones mgj@mennonitecc.ca or Marilyn Funk mrf@mennonitecc.ca in the MCC Canada office at 204261-6381.

JULY 24, 2002

Mennville Christian School invites applications from certified teachers committed to teaching Manitoba curriculum from a Christ'jn perspective for the following two multigrade positions to commence August 26,2002: grade 1 -3, grade 4-7 or grade 8-S2. An ability to enrich the school’s program through music or other specialization is an asset. If you are excited about work with children in a team-oriented environment, are a caring and compassionate individual, and are committed to professional development, we would welcome your application. MCS is an independent, government-funded school with 50 students, located near Riverton, Man., and Hecla Provincial Park. MCS offers a competitive salary and benefits package. A variety of housing options are available in the area. Please include a statement of faith and one pastoral reference with your resume. Send it as soon as possible to Roger Friesen, MCS board chairman. Box 448, Riverton, MB ROC 2R0 or fax 204-364-2454 to his attention. MCS thanks all applicants for their interest, however, only those chosen for interviews will be contacted.

Inner City Youth Alive seeks a full-time outreach coordinator to work in our drop-in centre in the north end of Winnipeg, Man. Applicants must be self-motivated and eager to build relationships. The coordinator joins a team responsible for developing and maintaining a strategy of outreach, evangelism, and discipleship training for youth. Inner City Youth Alive trains and equips its staff to raise their own support. ICYA is a vibrant and growing ministry striving to bring hope and a future to youth and their families in the inner city. For a job description, contact Kent Dueck: phone 204-582-8779; mail 418 Aberdeen Ave., Winnipeg, MB R2W IV7; e-mail icya@mts.net. ICYA information is available at www.innercityyouthalive.org.

Youth For Christ in Morris, Manitoba, is looking for a ministry director who will be responsible to develop an outreach ministry via a teen drop-in centre known as Cate 75, targeting teens who are falling through the cracks of society. The ministry director will report directly to the board, provide supervision and training for local adult volunteers who will assist in the outreach process, promote the ministry throughout the community, and supervise any future employees. The successful candidate will be required to raise his/her personal support through the deputation process. Applicants should have a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and be able to embrace and sign the YFC statement of faith and conduct. Resumes should be submitted to Gavin Vanderlinde, chairman, YFC Morris, Box 238, Morris, MB ROG 1 KO. Phone 204-746-6164.

The board of directors of the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada is calling for applicants and/or recommended candidates to fill the role of president of this organization. For details regarding the position description and the application process, please see www.evangelicalfellowship.ca/about/personnel.asp Morweena Christian School is accepting applications for the following positions for the 2002/2003 school year. Teachers are needed for grades 3 and 4, grades 7 and 8 and grades 11 and 12. Certification is preferred but not required. MCS is a K-12 school of approximately 100 students in a rural setting near the town of Arborg, Manitoba. Resumes or correspondence should be addressed to Harold Reimer, Box 858, Arborg, MB ROC OAO. Phone 204364-2346, cell 771-5239, e-mail hmreimer@mts.net or fax 204-364-2218.

Teachers are needed for schools in Mexico, al Camp 67 and Oasis. Teachers will work with local teachers who instruct in Spanish and German. Knowledge of Low German and Spanish would be a great asset, but is not required. Some instruction is in English. The positions could be short-term (one year) or career (four years). For information contact Lester Olfert at lolferl@mts.net or 204-3266401.

Wynyard Gospel Church (EMMC), located in southern Saskatchewan, is looking for a full-time pastor with an appreciation for small-town, rural life. The congregation averages 40 to 50 on Sunday morning, and comes from various church and cultural backgrounds. A pastor who could do well would be strong at visiting and relating to people, be able in preaching and teaching, and have at least limited administrative ability. The pastorate is currently available, with a flexible starting time. Contact Dennis Dell, congregational chairperson, by phone 306554-3117, fax 306-554-3118, or Box 371, Wynyard, SK SOA 4T0.

High Level Christian Fellowship, a growing church in a thriving northern Alberta town, seeks an associate pastor of discipleship to lead in discipleship of new Christians, small group ministries, and education and outreach programs for youth and children. Contact Scot Leys (780926-2942 or ssleys@telusplanet.net) or Eugene Peters (780-926-4126).

Food for Fun and Fellowship is still available!

Christian Parents’ Association seeks intermediate and senior high school teachers in math, English, science, computer and French to serve within the Sturgeon Creek Alternative Program, under the district school board. Contact Heidi Gerber at 807482-1860 (hgerber@mail.rrdsb.com) or Kendall Olsen at 807-483-5414.

Wymark EMC seeks a full-time associate pastor who is passionate about discipling young people and building relationships in the community. Additional responsibilities could include Christian Education, small group leadership, and/or music and worship, depending on the giftedness of the successful applicant. Contact Pastor Len Harms at Box 125, Wymark, SK SON 2Y0; phone 306-773-9089; fax 306-773-0952; or e-mail wymarkemc@sk.sympatico.ca.

Contact Melanie Frayle at 204-355-4060, or Conference office. PAGE 19

God Rocks! DO YOU collect rocks? Where has each rock come from? If rocks could talk, what story would each one tell? Although rocks do not talk, they can tell us many things. Geologists study rocks to trace the earth’s history and to find out whaf s in them. Diamonds are found in Africa in a rock called peridotite; emeralds are found in limestone in Colombia. Rocks collected from the moon are mostly made of minerals. Fossils found in rocks give us information about extinct plants and animals, like the woolly mammoth found in Alaska. Fossils of early plants and primitive life forms can be seen in rocks at the Manitoba Museum of Man and Nature and in Manitoba Legislative Building’s walls. In the past people used rocks to communicate. Ancient Egyptians carved records of important events onto temple walls and large slabs of stone called stelae. The oldest record of history is found on a stela called the Palermo Stone. Early North American Indians painted pictures on rocks of animals they hunted. In the far north, Eskimo make rock piles with arms that point the way back to camp. These Inukshuk mark the path for hunters to take. In Plymouth, Massachusetts, a rock commemorates the first arrivals to the U.S. from England in 1620. Called Plymouth Rock, it is in a shelter for everyone to see, but once it was an ordinary rock people climbed over to get to shore. In the Old Testament, too, rocks were used as markers and

to communicate. Remember how the Ten Commandments were first given to Israel? They were written by God on tablets of stone (Exodus 34:28). Jacob marked the spot where he wrestled with the angel as the place where God promised to be with him and bless him. He set a stone as a marker where God changed his name from Jacob to Israel (Genesis 28:12-18 and 35:14). Joshua helped the people of Israel •Tpromise, or covenant, to serve God and he marked with a stone where this agreement took place (Joshua 24:2627). David says that God is his Rock—his protector in times of trouble (Psalm 18:2). In Matthew 7:24-27, Jesus tells of a wise man who built his house on a rock. Jesus says that if we follow what He says to us, we are building on a rock. That rock is Jesus.

co’" Loreena Thiessen Winnipeg, MB

Try fun printing. It's fun! You will need: • empty aluminum pie plates (one for each colour) • newspaper to protect your work surface • art paper • liquid paint (mixed tempera powder paint) • balloons (one for each colour) Steps to follow 1. Spread newspaper over your work area. Put one colour of paint into each pie plate.

2. Blow up one balloon for each colour, but not too big. Put one balloon in each pie plate with the end tied up. The tied-up end makes a good handle. 3. Dab one paint-covered balloon onto art paper several times. 4. Continue making balloon prints with each colour. Remember to return each balloon to its own colour plate each time. 5. Experiment as you work: slide the paint-covered balloon across your paper; press the paintcovered balloon onto the paper, then give it a sharp twist before you lift it off; dab the balloon into two different colours, then print; use other objects to make a variety of prints on one paper; add handprints or footprints to your masterpiece. Remember, this could be messy, but you will have fun!

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 20

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