The Messenger February 13, 2002

War, Just? Or not so Just? page 3 ■I*

EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE VOLUME 40 NUMBERS FEBRUARY 13, 2002

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Messenger EDITOR Terry M. Smith

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why so much space?

HY IS so much space given in tribute to Abraham (Abe) Koop? The tribute to Mr. Koop is more than the usual 700 words for an obituary in our maga­ zine. This small magazine cannot give the room that each EMCer—whether career missionary, farmer or homemaker—de­ serves out of respect when they die. Why, then, the additional space for Mr. Koop? His life reminds us of an urgent task we must not lose sight of: the need to take the news of Jesus to people who have never heard of Him. Dated from 1792 when William Carey pub­ lished a pamphlet urging formation of a mis­ sions society, the modern missions move­ ment is 210 years old. Dated by workers from the Netherlands going to Indonesia in 1852, Mennonite missions is 150 years old. Mod­ ern EMC missions started about a half-cen­ tury ago, only about a third as long as Mennonite missions. Mr. Koop became a foreign missionary when such plans were considered suspect in some EMC circles. He was a pioneer mis­ sionary who challenged both the thinking of people he contacted in the Amazon and the thinking of people he left behind in Canada. Our denomination went through one stage

in its missions history when it lived a quiet witness of lifestyle in Russia. Some people outside of the usual EMC circle did become believers there, but concern for this does not appear to have been a major emphasis of the church. With the passing of Mr. Koop, we are moving through the second chapter of missions history, a renewed emphasis on the need io speak and to go. What will be the third stage of missions in our conference? Will it be an advance or a retreat? As a conference, we remain ac­ countable for how we share the good news. Despite satellite technology, the Internet, and much else, there is no substitute for Chris­ tians living and serving among unfamiliar peoples in lands far from home. Christ’s love for all peoples made Abe Koop move far from his Kleefeld home, commu­ nity, and church to pour out his heart and life in the Amazon. Do you know of a Chris­ tian—perhaps a young person or someone middle-aged—who ponders the same ur­ gency? Rather than discourage them, sup­ port them. Such believers are not strange; they are wonderful. We need more of them, and we need to give them away to peoples who need them more than we do. Terry M. Smith

Sanctions in Iraq

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HEN it comes to the economic em­ bargo against Iraq, some people might think MCC is telling only half the story. Why does MCC object to economic sanc­ tions on Iraq, yet not say governing in Iraq hurts the common person? It’s estimated that 500,000 people have died in Iraq because of the effects of sanctions. Surely such a large figure reflects on the Iraqi government, not only on the sanctions. It can be recognized as difficult for a relief agency to be openly critical of any govern­ ment when this might result in more restric­ tions and less opportunity to help needy and hurting people. (The wider church, though, has a continued prophetic role to both friendly and unfriendly governments.) MCC might continue to dialogue quietly

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with churches about the realities of diplo­ macy as well as its opposition to sanctions. Meanwhile, it remains important for the United Nations to pursue inspection of weap­ ons sites. At the same time, we can question the use­ fulness and fairness of economic sanctions for a basic reason. While sanctions affect the entire country’s population in some ways, they hurt common and poor people the most. Do we think that the leader of Iraq and his elite troops suffer as much as the average Iraqi? It is to no leader’s advantage in Iraq or anywhere to starve or to annoy those relied on for muscle and trigger fingers. Terry M. Smith

ASSISTANT EDITOR Rebecca Buhler THE MESSENGER is the publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. It is available to the general public. Ils purpose is to inform, instruct and inspire: inform concerning events and activities in the denomination; instruct in god­ liness and victorious living; inspire to earnestly contend for the faith. Letters, articles, photos and poems are welcomed. Unpub­ lished material is not returned except by request. The views and opinions expressed by the writers are their own and do not necessarily represent the position of the Conference. THE MESSENGER is pub­ lished twice a month (once a month in July and August) by the Board of Church Ministries of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference, 440 Main Street, Steinbach, Manitoba. Subscriptions: $12.00 per year (Manitoba residents add 7% PST, total; $12.84). Subscriptions are voluntary and optional to people within or outside of the EMC. Members and adherents 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. Mailing information: All correspondence, including undelivered copies, change of address and new subscriptions, should be addressed to: The Messenger RO. Box 1268 Steinbach, Manitoba R0A2A0 Phone:204-326-6401 Fax:204-326-1613 E-mail: emcmessenger@mts.net Portions available at WWW. emconf. ca/Messenger cover:

Photo from Canadian Armed Forces.

THE MESSENGER

Just war theory and justice are contradictory terms

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War, Just? Or not so Just? Archie Penner Second, what the state is described RATHER recently this magazine carried as doing, the believer is absolutely for­ a feature defending what is known as bidden in Romans 12:17-21. Conse­ the Just War Theory.’* Many of us, ap­ quently, the Just War Theory cannot parently, were surprised. be derived from the Romans passage. The reader must not misunder­ Rather, it must be the compromise of stand me. Issues like this must be dis­ some Christians with secular philoso­ cussed in the community of faith. phers, which is, in effect, fallen men However, one may question the use devising a fallen justification to support of our periodical—dedicated to the and sustain man’s fallenness. edification of believers—for this par­ Must not every careful thinker ad­ ticular purpose. Clearing bombies in Laos. mit that this theory is an unfortunate Be this as it may, our editor will attempt to justify that which under no circumstances is surely want to give some space to a bit of an analysis of justifiable? C. J. Cadoux, a British scholar and thinker, will this unbiblical concept of the Christian and war. The latter have nothing of this theory. He writes that it “is the diaboli­ statement is my thesis, and 1 am using the word unbiblical cal savagery of the acts of fighting, a savagery which makes advisably. any plea for their compatibility with Christian love an ethi­ 1 will present my analysis in three parts. First, 1 will criti­ cal farce.” cally look at the theory in general. Then will follow some Karl Barth faces the issue of war and writes frankly, specific observations about the results of war. Third, 1 will “Does not war demand almost everything that God has take to task the article as it appeared in The Messenger. forbidden...? To kill effectively...must not those who wage Only concepts, not persons, are targeted in this essay. war steal, rob, commit arson, lie, deceive, slander, and unfortunately to a large extent fornicate, not to speak of The theory in general the almost inevitable repression of all the finer and Some years ago Leslie Keylock and 1 discussed war weightier forms of obedience? And how can they believe and the Christian in the University of Iowa’s library. Finally and pray when at the climax of this whole world of dubi­ Leslie concluded, you are basing your views on the New ous action it is a brutal matter of killing? All affirmative Testament and we are basing ours on the Old Testament. answers to this question are wrong from the very outset, He was right. This is just what the just war people do. and in Christian ethics constitute a flat betrayal of the Gos­ But the Old Testament commands aggression, geno­ pel.” cide, and total destruction: “Kill both man and woman. These are not my words. Those involved in justifying gn^fant and suckling, ox and sheep, camel and ass” (1 Sam. ^3:3). Again, “the cities of these peoples that the Lord your war can hardly avoid these charges by these prominent Christian thinkers, can they? God gives you for an inheritance, you shall save alive noth­ What also hits the perceptive reader is that the theory is ing that breathes” (Deut. 20:16). Is this what the Just War through and through selfish. We are worth more than Theory permits? The theory is inconsistent with the Old those whom we subdue and kill in a wholesome manner, Testament. Furthermore, it is shattered by the New Testa­ if we think it is necessary to retain our selfish lifestyle. Do ment. If and when the theory is based on Romans 13, it is we find this selfishness in the teaching of Jesus and the bankrupt. Apostles? It is not there. It is bankrupt for many reasons. 1 have room for only Is not God absolutely impartial? Every person in Africa two. First, in Romans 13:4, the bearing of the sword is and every person in the Arab and Muslim world is worth descriptive; it is not commanded. This interpretation is de­ as much in God’s heart as any one of us. If 1, as a child of manded by Paul’s statement in Acts 14:16: “In past gen­ God, sacrifice the life of another to retain mine, 1 am then erations he allowed [conceded to] all the nations to walk speaking plainly with my action: “God is valuing me more in their own ways.” than the one 1 kill.” This is preposterous from the view of the Gospel. Emil Brunner, the late Swiss theologian, writes searchingly, “In its reality the state is always organized selfish­ ness.” This cannot be denied: War is a manifestation of Archie Penner, B.A., B.Div., M.A., Ph.D., the fall. It is human selfishness multiplied and com­ is professor emeritus at Malone College pounded. Such is the thrust of the Just War Theory. and Steinbach Bible College. A long­ How dare fallen, sinful man play God and force count­ time ordained EMC minister, he has served as a pastor and as a college and less numbers of people for whom Christ died into a lost seminary professor for many years in Canada and in the U.S. Dr. Penner was the EMC's first moderator. Now in his 85“’ year, he is actively retired with his wife EMra near Elkhorn, Manitoba.

FEBRUARY 13, 2002

■‘Editor’s note: The article was Reflections of a nontraditional peace-seeker. Dr. Terrance L. Tiessen, No­ vember 21, 2001. PAGE 3

eternity? Even God does not do what the theory permits Christians to do, namely, send people into a Christless eternity. Man throws himself into eternal lostness, and God releases him to experience that for which he has entreated Him with his sin and rebellion. Of playing God in war, HansWerner Bartsch writes succinctly, “The usurpation of God’s authority will be necessary on such justification of war.” If Bartsch is right, the Just War Theory becomes repulsive to the believer. The western world, including myriad Christians, fully justified the horrid, bestial, abhorrent punishment of Ja­ pan with atomic bombs. There were countless innocent people burned to a crisp. Others we killed in different ways by the bombs. Still others suffered the results of this damn­ ing penal action in life-long physical and psychological suffering. In numberless cases, even the offspring of these people were victims of these sufferings. The Japanese said it was the Christian bomb used by white devils that did this. Where is the witness of the gospel in all this? Let’s refer once more to Hans-Werner Bartsch, who poses a most acute and determining question. Answered from the New Testament and raw human logic, it demol­ ishes every iota of the Just War Theory. The question he poses is “whether participation in warfare is a possible way of proclaiming the gospel?” Is God’s loving mandate for us to kill or to bring life to both friend and foe? The Just War Theory seems to be as twisted as the think­ ing of Hiram Maxim, the inventor of the machine gun, when he claimed that this invention was “the greatest life­ saving instrument ever invented.” This “life-saving,” has, of course, devastating and final meaning for those in front of the machine gun. Should we not face stark realities? Much of our recent generation prides itself with calling things as they are. Per­ haps we too must use plain language to unravel the mean­ ings of a questionable acceptance of the theory. The following statement is meant to do this. Only they can accept the Just War Theory as part of a true and es­ sential Christian practice who understand their disciple­ ship as following a Jesus who charges out of the trenches with machinegun in hand and grenades dangling from his bell, shouting, "Come on, fellows, help me kill all those demons. ” Do some object to the latter word? So do 1. But

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is to kill not far more problematic than the word demons! Bluntly stated, the so-called Just War Theory fosters es­ sentially immoral means to morally damning ends. Has there ever been a war where not both winner and loser were defeated? In the Christian faith, redeemable human life is the end. This end can only be obtained by redeem­ able means. This is the total opposite of the Just War Theory.

Some specifics of the theory Where is the justice in the Just War Theory? What is just in forcing the finest of a nation to be conscripted as can­ non fodder, while those who send them to their death sit in ivory towers? Where is the justice in the slaughter of millions of innocents? Or, who can call it just to bring about a myriad of widows, often condemned to destitution for the rest of their lives, together with their offspring? What kind of justice is it that makes orphans out of innocent children by the thousands, even millions? Again, is it justice when governing authorities send their citizens to actually and potentially sacrifice their lives, the ultimate sacrifice, and then, for those who return often the dis­ grace of destitution, while the governing authorities in­ crease their salaries, quite forgetful of the returned men? Who can call the immoral actions associated with war moral, when, for example, a prominent person in world government recognized that the first casualty of war is truth? Who can call war just when the direct result is that sexual morality, because of war, is so recklessly thrown to the wind? Is there any justice at all in the wholesale de­ struction of property, so often of almost ultimate value, or the destmction of crops and foods given so graciously by divine compassion and love? 1 submit that the Just War Theory and true justice are contradictory terms. The article The article affirms some honourable and Biblical tmths and practices. There is emphasis on the Christian’s calling to pray for the governing authorities. This article also em­ phasizes reading, preaching, and obeying God’s written Word. Finer advice cannot be given, in my estimation. We read, too, that “God has specifically forbidden the Church from using coercive or force­ ful means to further the pur­ poses of saving grace” (p. 4). We appreciate this statement. However, if the statement implies that we are forbidden to use violence to defend the kingdom of divine, saving grace, our most precious treas­ ure, may we not question with Rutenber, the Baptist theolo­ gian, whether God could pos­ sibly mandate the shedding of blood to defend the far lesser values of our culture? In the same immediate context, the Just War Theory is defended because this kind of war is fought “to protect the innocent” (p. 4). This argu­ ment is a bit stunning. In effect, this argument is devastating in its real meaning. It inherently THE MESSENGER

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means to sacrifice as many innocents as necessary of the enemy side to protect our own innocents. Consider Ham­ burg, Darmstadt, hundreds of thousands of civilians, largely innocents, annihilated by allied bombs. Does God care more for our innocents than for the innocents of other peoples? Is God partial in favour of those who are mightier in the weapons of war? The article makes a questionable statement about Paul’s teaching in Romans 12:17-21. This text tells us that the Christian is forbidden to enforce divine justice (NEB). Then Paul adds, “Do not let evil conquer you” (v. 21), clearly pointing to an alternative action of the believer. Is it not clear from the whole passage that Paul considers the rec­ ompensing of evil for evil by Christians as wrong? Yet we are told, to justify the Just War Theory, that Paul does not consider “retribution is intrinsically wrong” (p.5). The logic in the article is flawed. According to the article, “Jesus says that it [the author­ ity to wage war] is not something for the private citizen (Matt. 5:38-42), but for duly constituted government” (p. 5). This is difficult to understand, for two reasons. One, Jesus says nothing of the kind. Two, nowhere in the New Testament is this concept stated or taught. The reader will forgive me to be taken aback when it is stated that “we can kill someone whom we love” (p. 4). Do we not accept Paul’s instruction anymore? Romans 12:9-12 calls us to love (agape love which always forgives) and particularly 13:10: “Love does no wrong to a neigh­ bour, therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.” The reader should not stumble at the word neighbour. The New International Dictionary of New Testament The­ ology states clearly that Jesus “demanded the inclusion of even the enemy” in the concept of neighbour (read Mat­ FEBRUARY 13, 2002

thew 5:43ff). According to the context, this wrongdoing includes killing (KJV, RSV, Menge, NEB, JB, Phillips). Are matters clearer than that? Furthermore, to kill is to do the will of the devil, for he “has the power of death” (Heb. 2:14). Again, all death, not merely murder, is the enemy of God (1 Cor. 15:26). Is that which constitutes enmity against God, the will of God? The answer is obvious. This is Scripture to be believed. We should listen to fine evangelical interpreters. Donald Guthrie says, “The idea that the devil has the power over death is in complete agreement with other New Testament passages regarding his power. Death is the worst enemy of man....” B. F. Westcott and A. T. Robertson agree: “Death is the Devil’s realm, for he is the author of sin.»” «“Death as death is no part of the divine order,” says Robertson. Bruce Milne says, “Death is Satan’s handiwork, from the begin­ ning in Eden until the last moment before the return of the Lord.” Is not he who kills by choice doing that which is the will of the enemy of God, according to these Bible schol­ ars? One devastating final observation. Consider the socalled Golden Rule, “So whatever you wish that men would do to you, do so for them; for this is the law and the proph­ ets” (Matthew 7:12). Clearly, these words have only refer­ ence to the good and the positive. However, the Just War Theory has twisted this command of Jesus out of all ethi­ cal joints by reversing it ethically and logically. According to the Just War Theory, it would read, “Whatever evil oth­ ers do to you, do it equally to them, and even more.” It should be remembered that the words “the law and the prophets” makes the Golden Rule the teaching of the whole of the Scriptures. ■ Photos of soldiers courtesy Canacten Armed Forces. Photo of deanrig DomCxes in Laos from MCC.

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My Valen-tine Irene Kroeker O JERUSALEM, Jerusalem, you who kill the Son, lest he be angry and you be destroyed prophets and stone those sent to you, how in your way.” I have meditated on Psalm 2 often I have longed to gather your children and the command “Kiss the Son” keeps together, as a hen gathers her chicks un­ jumping out at me. God is a jealous God. der her wings, but you were not willing! He wants our hearts, our first affection, (Luke 13:34) our first love. 1 love it when a child runs up to me with open arms to hug and kiss me. 1 HEARD a young preacher expound upon Jesus wants us to do that to him. this verse and it has never left me. Jesus’ Luke 10:27 gives us Jesus’ own words to own people rejected him, yet he longed a law expert, “Love the Lord your God with to embrace them and hug them to him­ all your heart and with all your soul and self. They would not allow this. with all your strength and with all your Jesus is out to hug us even if we are mind.” Do we have a passion for God and “unhuggable.” Precisely at our worst, we his kingdom? Do we share God’s heart for can turn to him. He will love us the way the lost? That’s why Jesus came. we are and then change us into his like­ Do we love God with all our strength? Is ness, if we will only let him. What more my best energy directed to God? 1 am a can he do or offer? Are you in need of a morning person so 1 need to get up early hug from God? Ask him for one and then enough to have my quiet time with him ask that your eyes be opened to his amaz­ before 1 start my day. A dear sister in Christ ing response. shared with me last week how happy she Perhaps you are going through a tough was because she was taking time to meet time and need more than one hug. Just God in the morning. 1 knew very well what keep asking and looking. One day God 1 needed to do. And yes, it makes a differ­ gave me many hugs. 1 counted seven and, ence in my attitude and my whole day if 1 chances are, there were more; we don’t sit at his feet long enough to not only read always see. and pray, but to listen before 1 hurry into Jesus is out to hug us. It may come in the the day’s activities. form of a song, a letter, a parcel, a grocery We are to love the Lord our God with all delivery, a compliment, someone open­ our mind. How do we do that? Paul writes ing your driveway, or a call from a child, in Romans 12 that we are to present our­ which happened to me today. On January selves as “living sacrifices” to God. We are 4, the day after 1 came home from my trip not to be conformed to the world, but to to Texas, 1 got my missing baggage deliv­ be transformed by the renewing of our ered to my door. Did 1 feel loved and mind. hugged by God? Yes, yes, indeed! Just this week, in my reading of Jill Psalm 2:11-12 says, “Serve the Lord with Briscoe’s book Faith Enough to Finish, 1 fear and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the had to agree with her that 1 am a natural

QTHETYUS

EMC Post-Secondary Students Luncheon Wednesday, March 6, 2002

WHATGDISGW

11 ;30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Room 543-544 University Centre (Churchill/Boissevain) The University of Manitoba Come and Go! Lunch supplied. Bring a friend!

YOURUIORVPLHG

For more information contact

F U T U R E:F L

FDJKVISIO N?

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K

Gerald Reimer at 204-326-6401 Travis Unger at 204-779-2888 Rose Friesen at 204-355-9259

Speaker: Dr. Arden Thiessen

whiner. Pray for me that my attitude will become one of constant thanksgiving and praise. We also need to fill our minds with Scrip­ ture, prayers and petitions, confessions, and songs. Are we so hung up with pleas­ ure and all our modern conveniences and technology that we’ve lost the hope and urgency of Jesus’ second coming? Perhaps we are just so busy in everyday life that we’ve lost our joy in the journey to heaven. We need to fill our mind with heaven and our blessings in Christ Jesus. Remember the story of Mary and Martha? Martha lost perspective and patience. Mary sat at Jesus’ feet and focussed on him. 1 can only imagine she took time to quietly listen to her guest. She had a special close friendship and relationship with Jesus, and Jesus acknowledged it publicly. Mary knew how to “kiss the Son.” Irene Kroeker is part of Rosenort EMC.

Region 8 Minlstrp Equipping Dap tor club, pouth, and Sundap school workers March 2, 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Steinbach EMC

Cost $10 (by Feb. 22) or $12 at door ! includes brunch and three 50-minute seminars Seminar topics: How to lead a child to Christ Keeping ministry alive in the summer Safe cross gender relationships Remaining sane in your Sunday school Contacting kids Pushing the classroom beyond the walls Active learning What works for adult Sunday school

Send registration (with cheques pay­ able) to Region 8 Ministry Equipping Day, Box 8, Steinbach, MB ROA 2A0. Phone: 204-326-6820, fax 204-326-6831. No refunds. Please identify home church. THE MESSENGER

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China

Foreigners and Festivities On Friday, December 21, we are enthusi­ and there are oranges for all. Santa comes astically ushered by Michael, chairman of with a bag of candies, and we get a gift. the students English association, to the Before we go, curious students surround fourth floor classroom where a party is us. Pictures are taken. Everyone wants to starting. At the door we are greeted by a be on a picture with a foreigner; some­ Santa Claus. times we are even stopped on the street Desks are piled at the walls, and many and asked to pose with a total stranger. students are sitting around the room, up By the way, 1 have good news. 1 have against the desks. Two chairs are placed “arrived," been promoted, because at the head of the room; we are the Sk 1 am now part of the elite class of S3 Chinese (millions and millions of honored guests tonight, the English foreigners. Introductory remarks are X If them) who own a bicycle! Our made in English. Foreign Affairs Office delivered At first we are interviewed. The it. It’s a new one-speed, topic is Christmas and we must equipped with standard bas­ answer many questions. We ket carrier in front and car­ manage to tell the real rier seat at the back. This story of Christmas, about carrier seat is where the angel, Mary, and =5^ finely-dressed women Bethlehem. They listen, Y perch gracefully sidebut their questions are > 1) ways as they get a ride JJ from their boyfriend or about customs, food, and what we do on spouse. So far 1 haven’t Christmas Day in got Leona to ride with Canada. Later we will be asked the usual me. We’ll probably buy a nice ladies bike barrage of questions: When did you come for her. to China? Can you speak some Chinese? Oh, and you must know that the bike What do you think of China? Can you use came with three separate locks. One can chopsticks? Can 1 be your friend? How never be too careful. Bicycle theft in China many children do you have? As the party progresses, a small desk is placed in front of us and we are served some hot water, which is the custom, sum­ mer or winter. The main game of the evening is played: Someone makes a ham­ mering noise as a Santa hat is passed around. The music stops and the holder of the hat must perform. When we are it, we sing Silent Night. Mandarin oranges are placed before us

ASgHS

Steinbach Christian High School

16mm films free to churches These older 16mm films, formerly used by Mr. Ben D. Reimer, are available as /s free to interested churches: Autobiography of a Tract, Law and Grace, the Home that God Built, Five Minutes to Live, Visits Africa, The Unpardonable Sin, Clean Vessels, The Dying Thief, Charge it to my Account, The Doctor Prescribes, Missionary to Walker’s Garage, That Kid Buck, The Man who Forgot God, Korea, The Crucifixion, Appleman and Faith of our Fathers, Family that Changed the World, Forgotten Valley, and Regions Beyond. Contact Terry Smith at 204-326-6401.

FEBRUARY 13. 2002

Information Evening

John and Leona Kornelsen are on a one-year MCC assignment in China, where John teaches English. John and Leona's home is in Winnipeg, Manitoba, where they attend Fort Garry EMC.

is the rage. Almost everyone has had one, or many more, stolen from them—some as many as 20! Well, I like my bike. It has three locks. I keep it inside for the night. I will make sure it will not be stolen! John Kornelsen

SBC Leadership Conference 2002 March 15 to 16 The Challenge of Change

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John H. Redekop, Trinity Western University

February 21®^

7:00 PM Starting September, 2002...

Friday: Registration (6 p.m.) and banquet The Changing Mennonite Church in Canada

complete Grades 7-12!

All interested parents and students are invited to tour the school and interact with the staff. Have all your questions answered and find out all you need to know about our Quality Education with a Christian Perspective.

Saturday: Coffee at 8:30 a.m., The Mennonite Church in a Changing Canadian Society Lunch The Challenge for the Mennonite Church: Discerning the Essentials and NonEssentials in a Changing World $40 single/$60 couple before March 8, $50/$80 after. To register, call SBC at 204-326-6451 or 800-230-8478. PAGE 7

Pioneer missionary Abe Koop dies at 77

ABRAHAM (ABE) KOOP 1924-2002 Abraham (Abe) Koop, a pioneer influence within the modem missions movement of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference, has died. He passed away on January 8, 2002, in Sanford, Florida, at age 77. At a time when the conference was re­ gaining a vision for missions in Canada and beyond—which was viewed with suspi­ cion by some EMCers—Koop, originally from Kleefeld, Manitoba, went to Brazil as a pioneer missionary in 1949 (or 1950, de­ pending on the source). It wasn’t until 1953 that the EMC formed its Board of Missions. According to an article by Martin E. Co­ mas of The Orlando Sentinel, Koop spent 45 years on the field deep within the Ama­ zon River valley with the Pacaas Novas tribal group. At the time tribesmen struggled with Brazilian workers for control of land and the indigenous mbber trees. “They would not be alive today if it were not for our work. The rubber workers would have killed them all,” Delores Koop, Abe’s wife for 49 years, is reported as saying. Abe was born on April 21,1924, raised in Kleefeld EMC and accepted the Lord as his Saviour at age 19. U^ile at Steinbach Bible Institute (now College) he was chal­ lenged by Leroy Larson, to become part of the fledgling New Tribes Mission. After missionary training at Fouts Springs, Cali­ fornia, Abe went to Brazil, according to a memorial bulletin. Initially supported by Kleefeld EMC and individuals, it wasn’t until the early 1970s that Koop was ac­ cepted by the EMC Board of Missions, ac­ cording to former General Secretary Henry Klassen. In 1954 Koop and two other missionaries contacted the Pacaas Novas, leaving gifts PAGE 8

of ax heads and bush knives, according to The Orlando Sentinel. Two years later mis­ sionaries moved in with tribal people. They taught them how to read and write in their own language, made storybooks, and sewed clothes. “They went from being a savage group to a pacified tribe,” Delores Koop is quoted as saying. According to a memorial bulletin from Florida, “After his arrival in Brazil, Abe mar­ ried Delores (Dee) Bleich whom he had met during his missionary training...They were instrumental in seeing a thriving church develop among the Pacaas Novas. “Abe served faithfully as a pioneer mis­ sionary and later as field chairman. He was known as a patient, meek, compassion­ ate and understanding man. He loved the Lord, whom he served faithfully, and used every opportunity available to challenge others into missionary service. As a leader, he was a good listener whom people sought out for wise counsel. As a humble

man, Abe never viewed himself as quali­ fied for the positions he held and the jobs he performed. Instead, he found his suffi­ ciency in the Lord and found his counsel in God’s Word.” Funeral and memorial services in hon­ our of Abe Koop were held in various set­ tings in the U.S. and Canada. A graveside service for family and close friends was held on Friday, January 11, with a fellow missionary from Brazil as speaker. A larger memorial service was held on January 13 at Latham Center, a New Tribes Mission home in Florida. Abe is survived by his wife Delores; three sons Phil, Bruce, and Don; one daughter Sharon Gustafson; their spouses and nine grandchildren. He is survived by two broth­ ers, Henry and Peter; and five sisters, Katherine Loewen, Sarah Doerksen, Eliza­ beth Koop, Margaret Banman, and Mary Goertzen.

Koop memorial held at Kleefeld EMC On Sunday, January 27, a memorial serv­ ice was held for Abe Koop at Kleefeld EMC with minister Ron Dueck in charge. Mr. Dueck opened the service by reading Psalm 23. In reading the obituary, nephew Dan Koop commented how Uncle Abe had always been a challenge to him. Different individuals gave tributes to Abe. His brother Henry Koop commented that Abe had made a difference in people’s lives, including being a blessing to them. Henry Loewen, a fellow missionary in Brazil, related how they had gone through different struggles together. When Loewen as field chairman had to leave, Abe would efficiently take over. Henry Part of the congregation gathered for Abe’s memorial service on Jan. 27.

recalled how they traveled together and walked together. “Now we’re rejoicing that he is in the eternal presence of Him whom he loved,” he said. Henry Klassen, former EMC Board of Mis­ sions (Jeneral Secretary, remembered the deep concern Abe had showed towards the unreached. In thinking of brother Koop he was reminded of the words of Paul to the Romans in Romans 9:1-2. A good number of people turned out for this memorial service. The afternoon serv­ ice was followed by a fellowship lunch. Elizabeth Koop, Abe’s sister, speaks in tribute, while husband Peter Koop listens.

Dave Schellenberg Editor Emeritus THE MESSENGER

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( It is a privilege for me to be here and and their language was analyzed and they share in this memorial service. Abe has were told of Jesus and His love.” been a blessing and encouragement to me I remember when Abe was 70 years old, over the years that I knew him. I consider he and Dee came to visit me in my office Abe a pioneer missionary of our confer­ to discuss their return to Brazil. I asked ence. He went to Brazil as a missionary him if it wasn’t time to retire from the field. three years before the Board of Missions He responded that the opportunity for organized in 1953. Shortly after I became ministry was there, that the missionaries Executive Secretary of the Board of Mis­ invited them, that healthwise he felt they sions, Abe was accepted as an associate were fit, and that they believed it was the missionary. Lord’s will for them to return. They re­ I appreciated working with Abe and Dee turned to continue their ministry to the during these years from 1978 to 1995. They missionaries. were good communicators and I was im­ In December 1994, six months before the pressed with their vision to reach Koops came to North America for retire­ unreached tribal people and their com­ ment, they wrote me: “We thank God for mitment to be an encouragement to their strength as we made several trips in the fellow missionaries. tribal areas to be with our missionaries. At In 1995 the Board of Missions gave spe­ times our old bones ached, but the joy of cial recognition in appreciation of the being with the Indians and our friends took Koops’ 45 years of active missionary serv­ away the ache and tiredness. We thank ice. On this occasion Abe shared the joys God for our children back in the USA. We of reaching the Pacaas Novas people even thank God for each of you who pray and though they encoun­ support us. Love was tered many difficulties. bom at Christmas and On the application to continues for it has no the Board of Missions end, the Love of God.” Abe was asked what In May 1996, after the motivated him to be­ Koops had settled into come a missionary. He their retirement home stated: “The heathen in Sanford, Florida, I re­ are lost without Christ. ceived a letter from His love for me moti­ Abe and Dee. The let­ vates me to obey His ter included a poem command to go into all that had challenged the world and preach them and I believe ex­ the gospel to every pressed their feelings creature.” Abe’s bur­ about Brazil. It speaks den for the unreached about a prayer ministry tribal people reminded they could have even me of Paul’s statement though they couldn’t in Rom. 9:1-2. “In the be on the field. They Dee and Abe Koop presence of Christ, I closed the letter, “We speak with utter tmthsorely miss Brazil, but fulness—I do not lie—and my conscience we can travel there on our knees!” and the Holy Spirit confirm that what I am My last visit with Abe took place in Sep­ saying is true. My heart is filled with bitter tember 1996 at their home at the retire­ sorrow and unending grief for unreached ment centre in Florida. At the conclusion tribal people” (paraphrase). of a mission consultation that I attended In 1961 the Koops wrote: “We as God’s in Orlando, Abe and Dee picked me up people need to prostrate before his face and took me to their home for the in agony over the lost. We are still very evening. I spent the night with them. Af­ limited in what we can present of God’s ter supper Abe and I went for a long walk. word; so join us in this struggle against the Even though Abe encountered some dif­ forces of darkness, and may the Lord grip ficulty due to the onslaught of Alzheim­ yours and our hearts with the need of er’s disease we had some good discus­ those who have never heard before.” sions about their ministry in Brazil. Abe’s I believe the scene in Rev. 7:9-12 cap­ mind seemed crystal clear on this. This tures for us the vision Abe had when he visit was a blessing and an encouragement reached out to the unreached people. to me. An article in the February 1996 issue of I believe Paul’s words in 2 Tim. 4:6-8 ex­ the Amazon Challenge, a New Tribes Mis­ press the conclusion of Abe’s life: “As for sion publication, pays tribute to Abe. It me, my life has already been poured out reads: “In spite of arrows zipping past his as an offering to God. The time of my death head, Abe remained in the contact work is near. I have fought a good fight, 1 have until the Pacas Novos became peaceful finished the race, and I have remained

FEBRUARY 13. 2002

An earlier photo of Abe. faithful. And now the prize awaits me— the crown of righteousness that the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on that great day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his glorious return.” Today we celebrate the life of one of God’s great servants. Abe’s life challenges us to faithfulness to God’s call in our lives and to a deep concern for unreached peo­ ple in the world. His love and concern for fellow missionaries models for us a rela­ tionship we need to practice. The impor­ tance that Abe gave to prayer reminds us that effective ministry is undergirded by prayer. May God grant us a faithfulness that Abe so lovingly demonstrated. Henry Klassen

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L=______ i Henry Klassen served as an administrator with the EMC Board of Missions from 1972 to 2000, when he retired as General Secretary.

other Pioneer EMC workers •Susan Plett, 1942, Brazil •Marian Loewen, 1949, Equador •Elizabeth Koop, 1950, Brazil •Tina Reimer, 1952, Mali

•Ben and Helen Eidse, 1953, Congo

PAGE 9

Region 6

Eyes opened to needs in Canada and elsewhere The weekend of November 23-25 was our regional missions conference, held at the Big M Centre in Morris, Man. Evange­ list Randy Friesen of Leamington, Ont., led us in worship with stories of the Lord’s dramatic working in the world. He called us to open our eyes to spiritual needs of those around us and to be willing to go where the Lord leads. We worshipped with song led by a wor­ ship team blended from the four Region 6 churches. Team members were Cal Sie­ mens, Alex Loewen, Earl Loewen, Angela Siemens, Arlin Scharfenberg, Rolf and Angela Kruse, Jeanine Parkinson and Amos Fehr. Gavin Van der Linde (Church of the Open Door), soundman, and Jer Loewen on Powerpoint completed the team. Other conference highlights were the

come-and-go breakfast on Saturday morn­ ing and fabulous displays put up by vari­ ous sending agencies. Lots of hearty visit­ ing with missionaries took place. Children enjoyed their exposure to missions pre­ sented by Child Evangelism Fellowship. Regional youth worshipped with pizza, a concert, and a challenge by Randy Friesen on Saturday evening. Thank you goes to

the joint missions committee that, once again, gave us a meaningful challenge and an amazing worship experience.

Worship involves giving, as treasurers Ernie Loewen, Mel Friesen and Cheryl Friesen show. Through our gifts, a pastor in Paraguay and a pastor in Africa will receive motorcycles, and Radio Mensajero in Paraguay will receive an extension for the radio tower.

We worshipped with joy and laughter as mission representatives shared agency opportunities in 30 seconds or less, including Dave Loewen from Kingdom Ventures.

Lori Scharfenberg Hi,-

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Speaker Randy Friesen visits with Ron Friesen, EMC Missions Auxiliary member.

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Emmanuel All testified to the Lord’s working in Sudan.

PAGE 10

Among Region 6 members attending the missions conference, Rolf and Angela Kruse (right) will be returning to Ethiopia shortly to work among refugees. THE MESSENGER

Antonio Bello prepares to carve the turkey at the Spanish ministries Thanksgiving potluck as Carmen Rivas looks on.

Potlucks, campouts and warriors Braeside (Winnipeg, Man.): Every month on a Saturday, Braeside’s Hispanic community gathers for a Spanish worship service. There is sharing, singing and a mes­ sage; refreshments usually follow. The group is led by Hernan and Landis Benitez; they are assisted by Sergio and Carmen Rivas, Ricardo and Rosa Martinez, and Adolf Dueck. The service is open to any­ one, including people who don’t speak Spanish. Weekly Bible studies and Sunday school are held as well. Despite unanswered questions regard­ ing refugee or immigrant status for some in the congregation, they are not sitting around and waiting, but are involved in the work of the church. Our family of Span­ ish-speaking believers is an active, enthu­ siastic and caring group. They are a bless­ ing to Braeside and we fortunate to have them in our midst. In late September a handful of men and two boys spent a weekend at Inner City Youth Alive’s Gem Lake camp on the east­ ern shore of Lake Winnipeg. To reach the camp requires some determination and Ken Fast, from ICYA, provided the leader­ ship to get the men to follow the right road through the colourful fall forest and point the boats in the right direction once they were on the lake. While there, campers helped with clean up and maintenance, fished and spent time in a hot-tub, and strengthened rela­ tionships. Young Simon and Jasper Fast enjoyed the excitement of camping out. Gem Lake is an ICYA-administered camp where urban kids can get away from their sometimes difficult life in the city. During their stay, campers enjoy many activities; they are also challenged to learn more about Jesus who loves them and died for them. The camp has benefited greatly from the proceeds of the EMC golf tour­ nament. Braesiders who visited this year. FEBRUARY 13, 2002

Five fish that didn’t get away. Mel Bennett, Bert Wiens and Warren Kroeker pose with supper, while Jasper Fast and Simon Fast smile in support.

as well as those who have gone in previ­ ous years, found it provided greater insight into the work of ICYA. Braeside celebrated Thanksgiving with a traditional turkey supper put on by our ladies fellowship. The church dining hall was full to capacity with hungry and thank­ ful people. After the supper, opportunity was given to share thanksgiving testimo­ nies and to contribute offerings to the be­ nevolent fund that enables the church to give food vouchers and financial assistance to needy families and individuals from the community. On November 2 to 4 weekend, we had a warrior in our church. Though he was adorned in a war bonnet, tassels and an eagle feather fan, none of us were scared because this was mission conference and the warrior was a full-fledged warrior for Christ! Roy Cardinal counsels clients at a native centre in the heart of Vancouver. He and his wife Leona are committed to working amongst the downtrodden in Canada’s largest west-coast city. Dan Woodard works with InterAct Minis­ tries, an organization focussed on equip­ ping and mentoring emerging native lead­ ers. Dan and Roy worked well together as they sang, preached and dramatized a brief history of the North American Indian’s search for the gospel. Their love for Cana­ da’s native people was evident. Through their enthusiasm and commitment, they encouraged us to pray more fervently for First Nations people and for those who work among them teaching and preach­ ing. On Sunday, November 4, Braeside elected a new pastor! A search commit­ tee, formed in spring 2001, prayerfully ex­ amined numerous options and, after care­ ful consideration, presented Carl Heppner, our youth/associate pastor, as the candi­ date. On Sunday the congregation en-

dorsed the committee’s recommendation. Carl and Kathy began their role as our senior pastoral couple on January 1,2002. The Heppners take over from Ron and Ruth Penner who served at Braeside for seven years. Although Ron and Ruth re­ tired from pastoral duties as of December 31,2001, we know that this move will sim­ ply open other doors of service in the king­ dom. We pray for God’s continued guid­ ance and blessing for both couples. Al Dueck

Plan to attend the

52nd EMC Annual Convention July 5-7, 2002 Swift Current, Sask.

Speaker: Herb Kopp

Hosted by Region 2: southwestern Saskatchewan and southern Alberta

PAGE 11

Ken Graham, standing second from the left, was a special speaker for the 25"’ anniversary celebration. He attended with his family. George and Elsie Braun, Lynn and Wil Warkentin, Karen and Joel Peters (representing Darryl Peters), John and Tina Toews, Connie and John Reimer, and Dwayne Klassen have served as Community Bible Fellowship pastors over the years.

25 years, a milestone to celebrate Swan River, Man.: An anniversary is a spe­ cial time. Excitement builds as the date approaches. Invitations are sent, some to people not seen in a long time. Memories are fondly or not-so-fondly re­ called about love that was shared, difficul­ ties along the way, the way God has worked in the family’s life. This is not a story about a young couple’s love, but of a church cel­ ebrating 25 years of existence, and what God has accomplished through it. Our celebration took place on October 21, 2001. Many people we had not seen in a long time, though once an integral part of church life, attended the celebration. Our morning worship service included a special song This is a House ofPrayer, writ­ ten and sung by Martyn and Jackie Snell. Milton Fast, interim pastor of Rosenort Fellowship Chapel, who represented the Conference in 1976, mentioned that “shar­ ing and caring have always been a part of this church. Many events have happened, babies have been born and others reborn. People have moved from death to life. Not always good things, but all things have hap­ pened because of our church family.” The first person baptised in our church was invited to share the morning message. Ken Graham, now a pastor in Virden, Man., had an inspiring, touching, sometimes hu­ morous, message as he recalled life 25 years ago. Ken was grateful for the invitation to come and to speak. He said that this was his spiritual home; it is to this church’s credit that he is where he is today. His spiritual beginnings made you mar­ vel at how God worked in Ken’s life and at PAGE 12

how faithful Christians stood by his fami­ ly’s side in the early years of their faith. “Walk by faith and not by sight. God has carried us every step of the way. We have doubted and struggled, but we have thanked God that what you have taught us is to be faithful,” he said. “Swan River is full of Ken Grahams, answer the call, the work is not over. You instilled in me a great love for the Bible, God’s Word. People need what this church has. Twenty-five years from now, hopefully there are oth­ ers who will stand up and say that they were faithful.” After the morning service we gathered for lunch and visiting. Our afternoon serv­ ice focussed on pastoral couples who served the church. Each couple came up and reflected on their time at Community Bible Fellowship. Wes and Lenora Reimer (of Hudson Bay, Sask.), and Alvin and Esther Brandt (of Winnipeg, Man.) sang for us. George and Elsie Braun, now in Calgary, Alta., were our first pastoral couple. Wil and Lynn Warkentin, who served from 1980-1994, are in Brandon, Man. Jack Dyck gave a wonderful tribute to pastor Darryl Peters (serving from 1994-1996). John and Tina Toews were interim pastoral couple for six months in 1997; they live in MacGregor, Man. Dwayne Klassen served as associate pastor from February to Au­ gust 2001. Closing remarks were made by pastor John Reimer. The day was truly an awesome time of remembering the faithfulness of our spir­ itual leaders and the results of faithful

mentoring of new Christians. We laughed and our hearts were touched by this spe­ cial time of remembrance. Never give up on people you are praying for to receive the fullness and peace of life that a relationship with God brings. Be faithful and trust God for the outcome. Just before the new year, on December 30, we welcomed two members by bap­ tism. A unique part of the celebration was the age difference between the two women: one was 15, the other 81. Many friends and relatives were there to sup­ port Anne and Ashley. Pastor John Reimer’s message focussed on John 5:6: jAre we content with where we are at or do we want to mature more and more in Christ-likeness? It was a challenge and encouragement for the new year. Karen Peters

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& Anne Snyder and Ashley Wolgemuth were baptised December 30. Along with many friends and relatives, pastoral couple Connie and John Reimer support them. THE MESSENGER

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A ladies retreat with the theme Hugs for Women was held October 26 to 27. Thirty-three ladies participated.

Hugs for women Rosenort Fellowship (Rosenort, Man.): Hugs for Women was the theme for the ladies retreat of Rosenort Fellowship Chapel. It was held at the Winkler Bible Camp October 26 to 27. Linda Edwards, provincial coordinator for Mothers Who Care, was our speaker at three sessions. On Friday she spoke on Celebrating Womanhood. She emphasized that we are God’s precious daughters. God longs for a relationship with each of us and wants to protect us. She painted a word picture of us sitting on God’s lap on a rocking chair and rocking. On Saturday she spoke on four ways to have good self-esteem. • We need to turn to God to fill all our

longings instead of trying to fill our rela­ tional thirst ourselves. • We need to allow God to reveal truth to replace the lies we believe in. He will make our imperfections into strengths or something good. He doesn’t waste any­ thing. • If we examine our motives we will make better choices, making our lives more meaningful. • Embracing our feelings instead of sup­ pressing them can draw us closer to God. FEBRUARY 13, 2002

Focussing on God instead of ourselves can increase our self-esteem. Her key verses were Jer. 9:23-24 (adapted), “This is what the Lord says: ‘Let not the wise woman boast of her wisdom, or the pretty woman boast of her beauty or the rich woman boast of her riches, but let her who boasts boast about this: that she understands and knows me, that I am the Lord, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight,’ declares the Lord.” Saturday afternoon we could choose from a variety of pampering services, in­ cluding getting our hair blow-dried and styled, and having a manicure or pedicure. We could also choose to make a Christ­ mas tree ornament, play games, or inter­ act with one another. In the middle of the afternoon we divided into four groups for a time of sharing and prayer. The weekend ended with communion and sharing. Throughout the weekend we heard touching readings and numerous door prizes were awarded. Women left having received many hugs, both emo­ tional and physical. Kathy Cornelsen

Joey Siemens, Erin Kroeker and Nettie Giesbrecht were baptised and received into membership on November 18.

PAGE 13

Betty Koop La Crete, Alberta

KATHY CHRISTMAS WAS coming, but our chil­ dren weren’t. That left us with two options: sit at home, feel sorry for ourselves and have a miserable time, or invite someone to share the holidays with us and have a great time! We chose the latter and did have a wonderfully relaxing and enjoyable Christmas. We adopted Kathy and Rich­ ard, pastoral couple at the EMC church in High Level, Alta. Since this is only an hour and a quarter’s drive from La Crete, they are pretty well next door neighbours in this land far from everywhere. When 1 called to confirm with Kathy, she mentioned she had been feeling a bit blue because their children were also far away and not coming home. So our invitation was just what we both needed. They joined us for our packed-out Christmas morning service. We could feel the joy in the air as the congrega­ tion and various groups sang of the mira­ cle of Christ’s first coming. Eager young­ sters blanketed the floor at the front on the sanctuary and undulated up the broad platform steps to enjoy an original puppet show. The pastor’s closing devo­ tional was brief, but meaningful. Christmas dinner visiting, playing fun games, napping and more visiting and refreshments filled our day and the next morning. 1 know we all missed our chil­ dren because we talked about them a lot. Somehow, though, the hurt of the separation seemed to have subsided. 1 had heard Kathy speak on her jour­ ney through the “valley of the emptynest syndrome” at their Spring Tea. She graciously agreed to let me share of how she had coped with this experience so common to many mothers. Their three children all live in Winni­ peg, Man., with their oldest, a daughter, being the last to leave High Level. Her move coincided with the time when Ri­ chard had a short study leave in Mani­ toba, so they were all together again for a few months. How they enjoyed those family times! Then Kathy and Richard returned to their ministry in High Level. They came back to an empty house and no children. Kathy mentioned, “...every ache and pain that I had experienced in previous years set in again...The travel, the hard work of settling in again at home, and probably the change in climate all con­ PAGE 14

tributed to a spell of most miserable pain. In the frame of mind that I was in be­ cause of having to leave all my children, this was a prime opportunity for a firstclass pity party.” She told of how she spent a lot of time playing computer games, “mostly of a fairly mindless variety.” But she also lis­ tened to music on the tape player by the computer, and repeatedly to a Twila Paris song entitled This Thorn. This song spoke of the writer’s frustra­ tion in her physical disability. Kathy said, “1 could identify with that.” Then she continued, “Then the last half of the song started to sink in. 1 began to imagine what it must have been like for God to send his son Jesus into the world. He was sending him here to die! 1 had left my family in Winnipeg to live! They were healthy, happy and living for God. Our relationship was not broken...And when Jesus offered his life on the cross, he was willingly going into anguish much greater than 1 could imagine. My own pain was so trivial compared to his. “And 1 was quite sure, even in the mid­ dle of all this pity party, that 1 would be better again soon. God used the words of this song to speak to me, teaching me that in all of my hard times, he could identify with me, for he had been through it all and more. I learned then to hand all my frustration over to him and let him carry me.” Kathy continued with a half-smile, “The months since then have not really been so very different. My children are still all far away...There are still many weeks when 1 live in a lot of pain and fatigue...But 1 hope that the lessons God has been teaching me about putting my trust in him, and letting him carry me through the difficult patches will not be forgotten. I know that he is able to lift my spirits and help me adjust to what­ ever he allows in my life. I know that my kids are in his capable hands. That helps me to go on, one day at a time.” As mothers we’re so used to doing the carrying that we’re a little rusty when it comes to letting someone carry us. But I think we should try it anyway. Experi­ ence the delightfully reassuring feeling of having his comforting arms around us, as he comforts us “as a mother comforts her child” (Isaiah 66:13).

Dishes for ssle Prairie Rose EMC has these dishes for sale, all white china with a gold rim, for a nominal fee: 166 bread and butter plates For information call 195 dinner plates Ella Rempel 48 soup bowls 204-355-4591 144 cups or Hilda Koop 266 saucers 204-355-4484

MYRNA FRIESEN JULY 24, 1940 — FEBRUARY 21, 1997 In loving memory of Myrna Friesen, who went to be with the Lord on Feb­ ruary 21, 1997. In a quiet graveyard Not so far away. Where the gentle breezes blow Lies the daughter, sister, aunt. We loved and lost five years ago. Her resting place we visit. And put flowers there with care. But no one knows the heartache. As we turn and leave her there.

Lovingly remembered and missed by her parents, Peter and Gertie Friesen, her brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews.

I Couldn’t, You Didn’t, They Wouldn’t How I wished I could have held you, could have kissed your little nose. How I hoped you would escape this death, would escape this senseless pain. How I prayed they might change their minds, might change their cruel plans ...but I couldn’t, you didn’t, they wouldn’t. If you’d lived I would have loved you, would have wiped away your tears. If you’d lived you’d have breathed your first, have breathed the smell of spring. If you’d lived they’d feel the love of God, feel the joy a baby brings

...but I couldn’t, you didn’t, they wouldn’t. You’re gone, I never got to say good-bye, got to hold your little hand. You’re gone, you never saw the sun go down, saw the world that God has made. You're gone, they never gave you any chance, gave you the life you had ...but I couldn’t, you didn’t, they wouldn’t.

Now dear child, you are in Heaven. One day I’ll see you there. But what I can’t understand Is how they wouldn’t care

...I couldn’t, you didn’t, they wouldn’t. Name withheld THE MESSENGER

•-.A-’

Steinbach EMC in Steinbach, Manitoba, seeks a full-time senior pastor to be part of a pasto­ ral team that includes a pastor of discipleship ministries, a youth pastor, and a minister of music. This individual would be expected to be a spiritual leader to a multigenerational congregation of about 600 people. The applicant should feel comfortable in preaching and teaching, visitation, adminis­ tration, working together with a pastoral team, and caring for and relating to people in the congregation and community. Previous pastoral experience and a Bible college or seminary degree are important as­ sets. This individual should share our evan­ gelical Anabaptist beliefs. Please forward your resume by March 1, 2002, to Abe Hiebert, Box 754, Steinbach, MB ROA 2A0. Phone 204-326-1851, fax 204-3884393, e-mail hnickel@stacoop.com A junior high school teacher is needed as soon as possible for Tigertown, Texas. Teacher’s cer­ tification is not necessarily needed. An ability to speak Low German helps to communicate with students and parents, though teaching is in English. Contact Willie Dueck, Box 700, Arborg, MB ROC OAO, 204-364-2335.

Inner City Youth Alive seeks a full-time outreach coordinator to work in our drop-in centre in the north end of Winnipeg, Man. Ap­ plicants must be self-motivated and eager to build relationships. The coordinator joins a team responsible for developing and maintain­ ing 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 striv­ ing to bring hope and a future to youth and their families in the inner city. For a job de­ scription, contact Kent Dueck: phone 204582-8779; mail 418 Aberdeen Ave., Winni­ peg, MB R2W 1V7; e-mail icya@mts.net. ICYA information is available at www.innercityyouthalive.org Rosenort Fellowship Chapel (EMC) in Rosenort, Man., seeks a full-time senior pastor. Send resumes to Kel Zacharias, Box 203, Rosenort, MB ROG 1W0, phone 204-7462866 (home) or 204-895-1412 (work), or email: zachstgmb.sympatico.ca

Crestview Fellowship (EMC) in Winnipeg, Man., invites applications for a full-time pas­ tor. Send resumes to Alex Wiebe, Board Chairman, c/o Crestview Fellowship Church, 271 Hamilton Ave., Winnipeg, MB R2Y 0H3, phone 204-353-2780 (home) or 204-982-0322 (work), or e-mail alwiebe@escape.ca Kleefeld EMC, in Kleefeld, Man., seeks an associate pastor to primarily work with the youth program in a support and rela­ tional capacity. Other duties include Chris­ tian education and music ministry, with mini­ mal administrative duties. Please direct applications and inquiries to Dean Kamstra, Box 21, Kleefeld, MB ROA OVO or dkamstra@eliteswine.com

FEBRUARY 13, 2002

Braeside EMC, a Winnipeg, Man. church with a Sunday morning attendance of 200 to 250 people, seeks an associate pastor to work primarily with youth. Send resume to Irven Hiebert, 76 McLennon Rd., St. Andrews, MB RIA 2W7 or Bob Hartman, 669 McLeod Ave., Winnipeg, MB R2K 0V6. Call Irven at 204-3389114 or Bob at 204-663-5438. E-mail: b.hartmanc&shaw.ca NCEM-TV seeks voluntary typists for its TV pro­ gram Tribal Trails. The typists will transcribe programs; copies of the programs are made available to interested viewers. Contact admin­ istrator Brent Wahlstrom at Box 3030, Prince Albert, SK S6V 7V4; phone 306-764-3388; fax 306-764-3390; or e-mail tribaltrails@ncem.ca

EMC archives committee seeks a voluntary archivist to learn from Dave K. Schellenberg, archivist emeritus. Contact Terry Smith at 204326-6401. Mennonite Mutual Insurance has a marketing/ underwriting position open. MMI is a church­ based mutual aid insurance organization serv­ ing the Mennonites of Alberta through churchappointed representatives. MMI offers a broad range of products, including property and li­ ability coverage for dwellings, farms, churches, and commercial properties. Responsibilities include program promoting among congregations; assisting with inspec­ tion of farm, commercial and other properties; assisting with loss prevention program; com­ municating with policyholders and company personnel; working in a computer environment, and might include claims handling. The preferred applicant will identify with a Judeo-Christian ethic; exhibit a commitment to mutual aid concept; be self-motivated, enthusi­ astic, and open to new challenges; possess strong inter-personal and communication skills. The successful candidate must be willing to pursue post-secondary education on insurance or other courses as needed. A farming or con­ struction background is an asset. Salary is commensurate with experience. Training will be provided. Please forward resume, including references, to Mennonite Mutual Insurance Co. (Alberta) Ltd., attention: Larry Jantzi, 76 Skyline Cres­ cent NE, Calgary, AB T2K 5X7. E-mail mmiab@cadvision.com

MCC Canada seeks a (Winnipeg) restorative justice coordinator (75 percent FTE). A man­ aging editor (full-time) is sought for Die Mennortilische Post, a German newspaper serving many Low German-speaking colony Mennonites scattered throughout Ccinada, U.S., Mexico, and South America. The preferred starting date is March 1, 2002. MCC seeks an executive director for El’dad Ranch, near Steinbach, Man., which offers a residential treatment program for adult men with mental disabilities who are in conflict with the law and a supported living program for two adult men with mental disabilities. Ap­ plications are accepted until April 30. All MCC workers are to be committed to a personal Christian faith, active church mem­ bership, and nonviolent peacemaking. Contact

Marsha Jones or Marilyn Funk at MCC Canada. Phone: 204-261-6381 e-mail: mgjfS mennonitecc.ca or mrf@mennonitecc.ca Providence College, an interdenominational, evangelical Christian college in Otterburne, Man., seeks applicants for following positions: contemporary thought (Ph.D. in humanities, ABD also considered), full-time; recreation leadership (master’s, Ph.D. preferred), fulltime; contemporary Christian/worship mu­ sic (master’s), full-time or part-time; business (MBA or equivalent); part-time professors in mathematics and computer (master’s, Ph.D. preferred). Interest and experience in teaching at an un­ dergraduate level is required. Application dead­ line is March 20. Details can be obtained from Dr. A. van Kuik, vice president for college aca­ demics, phone 204-433-7488, ext. 241; fax 204433-7158; E-mail: antoinette.vankuik@prov.ca

Coming Events February 21 ]nformation evening for parents Steinbach Christian High School Steinbach, Man. Phone: 204-326-3537

February 21 Explore CMU Canadian Mennonite University Winnipeg, Man. Phone: 204-487-3300 February 21-22 Breakaway (grades 11 and 12) Providence College Otterburne, Man. Phone: 800-668-7768

March 1-3 Mother-daughter retreat Nurturing our understanding Camp Koinonia Boissevain, Man. Phone:204-896-1616

Mennonite Heritage Museum Steinbach, Man. Phone: 204-487-3300 or 877-231-4570 (Heidi)

Marche EMC Post-Secondary Students Luncheon University of Manitoba Winnipeg, Man, Phone: 204-326-6401 March 8-10 Peace It Together: Weekend peace conference for senior high youth Canadian Mennonite University Winnipeg, Man. Phone: 204-487-3300 March 11 Module 6 begins Steinbach Bible College Steinbach, Man. Phone: 204-326-6451

March 12 Sacrifice, Survival, Simplicity March 1-3 Evening with Tim and Retreat for families with Deanna Treadway of a mentally handicapped Pioneer Quest member Providence College CampAssiniboia Otterburne, Man. Headingley, Man. Phone: 800-668-7768 Phone:204-896-1616 March 15-16 March 2 SBC Leadership Region 8 Ministry Conference Equipping Day Steinbach Bible College Steinbach EMC Steinbach, Man. Steinbach, Man. Phone: 204-326-6451 Phone: 204-326-6572 or 800-230-8478

March 2 The Power of One Canadian Mennonite University Dinner Story, song, food, community

March 21-24 Drama: The Curious Savage Providence College Otterburne, Man. Phone: 800-668-7768

PAGE 15

does not destroy. Love is patient and kind. Love accepts and forgives. Love is gentle. Love heals and trusts. Love believes. Love hopes. Love en­ dures. Love rejoices in the truth. Love never fails.” All of these are actions. If you practice love, you become loving.

co’" Loreena Thiessen Winnipeg, MB

WHAT IS LOVE? DO YOU wear your heart on your sleeve? Connecting Valentine’s Day with love goes back to the time of early Christians in Rome. One story says that Valentine was an early Christian who helped and befriended children. He believed in God and was imprisoned because he refused to wor­ ship Roman gods. Children brought loving notes to him in his prison cell to show that they missed him. People believe this was the beginning of ex­ changing messages and cards on Valentine’s Day. Later, Valentine’s Day became a day to give a gift to the person you love. An old custom was the prac­ tice of writing ladies’ names on slips of paper and placing them in a jar. Men each drew a name. The woman whose name was picked became the man’s valentine. The man had to give her special attention. He gave her a gift; a common gift at that time was a pair of gloves. Wealthy men gave fancy dancing parties to honour their valentines. For several days each man wore his valentine’s name on his sleeve. The saying wearing his heart on his sleeve may come from this practice. Today this saying means that you easily show how you feel. Sometimes people are not sure what love is. They confuse love with a feeling of excitement or of at­ tachment. Sometimes people confuse love with things they want or get as gifts. Sometimes people think the kind or size of a gift somehow equals an amount of love. But you don’t have to be confused. You can know what love is. God says he is love. God has written a letter to every person, a love letter. It is an account of how he has led his people, and in this account he re­ veals who he is and his plan of love for every per­ son. This letter is the Bible. God explains what love is in 1 Corinthians 13. This is what he says: “Love is not envious or jealous, does not brag, does not serve itself, does not judge or blame, is not touchy, does not think evil thoughts, is not happy when bad things happen to others. Love

Activity: Send a secret message in a blooming heart to someone you love. You will need: 1 sheet of red construction paper. 1 sheet of white bond paper. crayons or colored pencils glue scissors

Follow these steps: •Cut a heart from red construction paper. • Draw a flower with six petals on white bond pa per; cut it out. •Decorate the petals, leaving the centre. •Write a message in the centre of the flower. •Fold each petal inward, covering the message. • Put a few dots of glue on the back of the flower and stick it onto the red heart. •On the back of the heart write. Float this heart in water, and watch a message bloom. •When the heart is placed in a bowl of water, the petals will open slowly and your message will be revealed. The solution to the puzzle of December 5 is:

Do you have a story for The Personal Touch? It must be a true account (although names may be changed, if necessary) illustrating the Christian life or character. Send your 700-word story and a photograph of yourself or suggestion for a story to the address below.

PAGE 16 KOOP,. HELEN PO POX 345 MB BL LIMENOR T

£.135

oco 9912

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

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