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EVANGELICAL 31. 4, No. 17 ug. 19, 1966

MENNONITE

IN THIS ISSUE: Front Bench Theology 3 A Lingua Christian Writes 4 Orientation School 6 ^1}--

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Letters To the Editor Box 575 Burns Lake, B.C. August 16, 1966

SPIRITUAL HEALTH The plants on the windowsill did not at all look healthy. 'They appeared drooping and lifeless. I en quired of the lady of the house if her plants had been frozen. Then she told me this amazing story. Her plants had not been doing well and she had not known why, until one day someone had told her that the fault lay with the town water. "Now we use snow water," she said, "and they thrive."

My, I thought, what a spiritual lesson there is in this incident. Herein lay the answer to spiritual lethargy. If we are not spiritually thriving maybe it is because we have not been feeding on the pure, "snow water" of God's Word. Jeremiah, writing about backsliding Israel makes the following statement, "For my people have com mitted two evils; they have forsaken me the foun tain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns that can hold no water." (Jer. 2: 13) Before we accuse Israel of forsaking the Lord, the fountain of living water, let's ask ourselves if we are as close to the Lord as we should be. Peter likens the new-born soul to a babe when he says, "As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word that ye may grow thereby." (I Peter 2;2) If we are spiritually weak, maybe it is because we have not heeded the admonition of Peter to, ". . . desire the sincere milk of the word." If we haven't got victory over sin, maybe it is simply because we have not like David hidden God's word in our hearts. Maybe on the contrary, we are cherishing in our hearts things or thoughts that can but lead us away from God. One has aptly put it this way, "We are not what we think we are, but WE ARE WHAT WE THINK."

How then can we be spiritual thriving Christ ians? 'The answer lies in ,the Word of God. The secret is revealed in the Scriptures. Christ said, ". . . man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God." —D. S.

Mr. D. K. Schellenberg Box 25, Station F, Winnipeg 5, Man. Dear Bro. Schellenberg, I meant to write this letter for quite, some time, but I have been putting it off long enough now, as I hove been prompted by others to write.

We are proud of our wonderful church paper, and commend you on your excellent job of editing it. We thought it was a good idea to make one paper of "The Messenger" and the "Missions Informer". But there is one thing missing which we're very sorry for, namely the list of our missionaries. In order to intelligently pray for all our missionaries we must know who they are and where they are. We still have the latest list out of the "Missions Informer", but we're afraid it's greatly outdated. I don't think it's necessary to have it in every issue of the Messenger but it should be revised and published at least twice each year.

This might not make such a difference to those of you who get to see most of them occasionally, but we who are so far out of the way would certainly appreciate it. Thank-you. Your co-lobourer in Christ, Jake B. Klassen ED. NOTE: Thank you lor the reminder, brother Klas sen. The Lord willing such a list shall appear shortly. IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

After September 1 the office of the Board of Education and Publication will be located in

Steinbach at 275 Reimer Ave., (Evangel Book Shop). This will also be the office of the MES SENGER. All mail after this date intended for the MESSENGER should be sent to Box 1268, Steinbach, Manitoba. Thank-you.

Reporters this issue: Morweena, Gertie Penner; Flin Flon, Wal don Doerksen; Kola, Mrs. Martha Penner; Portage la Praiiie, Mrs,

Cover photo: Although not as common as 30 years ago never lheless there are still places where you can see scenes like that

Leanne Penner; Pelly, Mrs. Vivian Aniinson; Ridgewood, Elsie Plett.

on our cover photo. Picture shows a farm scene near Cocoboconk, Ontario, courtesy Ontario Department of Tourism and Information.

The Messenger is the publication ot the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. Its purpose is to inform, instruct and inspire. Inform as to what is going on in the Conference. Instruct in Godliness and victorious living. Inspire Io earnestly contend for the faith. AU correspondence should be addressed to the Editor. D. K. Schellenberg. The Messenger, Box 1258, Steinbach, Man. Changes of address should be sent Io the circulation manager, Abe Klassen, Box 1447, Steinbach, Manitoba. Subscription; Members pay through their church. Non-members $1.00 per year. Authorized as second class mail by the Post Office Department, Ottawa, and for payment of postage in cash. Printed by Deluxe Printing, Steinbach, Manitoba, Canada.

the messenger

Church renewal is the business of each of us, and each one of us must make decisions on the direction our lives and our churches will take in the years to come. Oapgsag-Ka

CHURCH RENEWAL SERIES flV^

FRONT BENCH THEOLOGY W. K. Schellenberg

"What do you know about church benches. There is such a variety of renewal?"! asked myself when the people in our congregations. That editor gave me this assignment. I which is spoken to the student will would like to write on one aspect of not be listened to by grandpa, and it as it has been impressed upon so on. If it were not for the working of the Holy Spirit in hearts, the word me by the Holy Spirit. Three things come to my mind oi God preached on Sunday morn when I think of church renewal: ings would have no effect. But then ( 1) the size of our Sunday morning again, Satan sees to it that there congregations (2) our places of are so many disrtactions that keep worship (3) the place of the Bible the message from reaching us or registering in our understanding, in our lives. that there is hardly a word or 1 have often wondered just how thought that reaches the right des much is gained by our habit of at tination. tending a church service on Sunday When I was a child I used to morning. The blessings and helps ihink that a sermon, or anything that are experienced as a result of spoken from the pulpit, was aimed listening to a Sunday morning mes at each one in the congregation sage—are they proportional to the personally and was meant for him large number of individuals in the to apply to himself. Then I grew congregation? Does there result a up and learned that you could ac motivation for holy living and tually take it or leave it. You could Christian service that is in propor listen to a sermon in a general, de tion to the size of the audience? tached sort of way, and then you I realize that it is hard for the could take in those parts that suit pastor of a large congregation to ed you, and you could close your inerest any except those in the front mind to other parts, letting those August 19, 1966

parts apply to others in the congre gation. As I mentioned before, the front pew seems to be about the only place in our large congrega tions where you can feel personally involved so as to get something out of the message. The trouble is (you guessed it) there are too few front benches in our large church build ings. The problem is not with the mes sages themselves, nor with those who deliver them. As a rule, we get good sound Bible teaching from our pastors. The messages are well pre pared and much study and prayer goes into them. Neither is the fault with our comfortable benches, or the excellent lighting, or the first class music. The bottleneck to Bible truth be ing received seems to be with each individual in the congregation. Even under the best of conditions, where there are few distractions, where everything is perfectly suited (Cont'd. on page 10)

MISSIONS

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A Letter from a Lingua Christian o

Lingua Christian Writes io His Brethren in the North

Juli den 20. 1966 Enaymacoc co nelhelhquija co Cristo lhamo. Acialhosqui lhama vaycajec enaymacoc; payjecIhec ningcoo ingilvalhoc yitnec nintamjaycam quilhvo. Avanjec apquiltamjaycomenlhitaoc, apquilingquim pejim apvajac. Quilhvo. yitnec najan quilhvoc Escuela; aplhamoc insiaa enlhit quinjan Sanapana apquitquicc. Paayjeclhec mataa ingilvalhoc alhnancoc nintemaclha. Quilhvo vamlha caymalhquic yecje Nintom cjvataoc. Tasi jingilpasim sat, jatem masquic ningcoo ninyajem insicaa. Nanoc alhta apcajac mataa insicaa enlhi;. Ayinyemaclha poc enlhit mataa meltamjoc apquitca, moc quilvana najan coltamjoc ayitca. Quilhvo apqiiyanmongcasquic aquilvalhoc enlhit; masguic apcajem apquitquic, ayinyemaclha apquilingac quilhvo Bios appayvam. Quilhvoc apyitnec enlhit apvanquic pquilyipsatem vaycajac quinjan aptalhsecama apancoc vaycajac. Apvanquic najan enlhit elhicmocsic apnaymacoc apanco quinjan apquitquic, elnhii lihamo yitnec quilhvo soycam amyaa quinjan aplhicmcscama enlhit apquitquic quilhvo nacjay, quitlhingcasqui apquilyasingvocmec napocja enlhit quinjan Sanapana; javea apvamlha lhapcoc enlhit ingilpasmec najan lengco jatem mongvonquejic inIhapcc. Quilhvo invanqui inlhapco, sas anco. Quilhvo payjeclhec ningcoo ingilvalhoc jatem ninglingac mataa amyaa ingilpawmec quilhip co nelhequigja inaaymacoc, jatem quilhvo co Cristo lhamo Ihalhma-anco nintemec Dios apquitquic. Quilh/o ingvonquic ongilmalhnesquisic quilhep. Ningililsovasoc ningcoo quilhvo ning'vita apquimja apmamyi, siclho alhta apvisay Joh. W. Toews, jate ingilpasmec ningcoo aso Mision La Esp.; Natamin poc najan apvisay Jakobo Giesbrecht, eycaso apquilhicmoscama ingquitquic. Natamin apvaac lhama mocjam, yoyam jimpasmoc ningcoo aso La Esp. apvisay Ben Reimer. Natamin quipayjelhec ningcoo ingilvalhoc, avanjec quilhvo nelsovascama. Quilhvo ingvonquic ningcoo lha ningminaycmas cama aso chaco Paraguay; poyjaclhec mataa ingil valhoc yitnec ningcoo najan lha ningminaycmascama, malha nac quelhep Lengco. Apquiltamjoc ancoc quelhep elayclhojo apquilminaymascama lengua ayinye-

Isaac Fehr, Lingua Indian and choir

ma aso Chaco Paraguay, tasic, ingyapajas sot lhama assoc (-Assoc acmam ningminaycmascama-) tama'ac yoyam elayclhojo qulehep lha aso apquilaoclha. Eyanayc coo vamlha sictalhescama. Lhenquic evalhoc apquilanamacpo elyalhinga co Cristo! Coo sicvisay, Isaak Fehr

(Isaac Fehr is a Lingua Christian. He can read and write quite well. He is one of the native teachers here in the school on La Esperanza. He is also one of the songleaders in the Lengua congregation, and is able to translate melodies from numbers to notes or vice versa. The other day he had written the music for a song over from notes to numbers, prac tice it with a men's quartette. They sang it as a sur prise in the morning service a few Sundays ago. We are very thankful for men like him, concerned Christ ians who help in the work. Remember him, his family, and the others in prayer). B. D. Reimer

The English Translation La Esperanza c.d.c. 984, Asuncion July 20, 1966 Dear friends and brothers in Christ, I would like to write you a short letter. We are very happy because we have ample work. The men (Lingua and Sanapana) work at clearing land. We also have school with the Lingua and Sanapana children. We are thankful too that we are well. Our children need food, and we appreciate your help very much. THE MESSENGER

Since we do not kill our children now as formerly, we have families. Formerly, if a man or woman did not want the child, it was killed. Now that we are converted this has stopped. We now always hear God's Word. A few of us can now read God's Word, and write and read letters. Through this it is possible that we can teach our own children. Some of us can no wteach and preach the Word to our own peo ple, because a few Lingua and Sanapana are already able to understand the written Word somewhat as ihey read. But we do not have that of ourselves. The missionaries hdve taught us, so that by now we can begin to help ourselves. We do appreciate it so much. We are indeed happy that the John Toews' are with

us, who know how to understand and help us. Also the Jacob Giesbrechts are here, on La Esperanza, helping us with our children in school, and with singing. Later brother Ben 'Reimer came to help along. We were very joyous about that, and are still full of joy. We Lingua and Sanapana can now also sing your wonderful gospel songs, in which we rejoice. We can now teach and preach the Word to our own peobe interested to hear us sing, send us a tape, and we will sing for you in your home. With this I will stop for now. I greet all brethren in Christ! Isaac Fehr

EMC Ministerial Notes (August 6)

Reports were again heard return to British Honduras in Sep frcm various churches. In general tember. they were optimistic. Valley Stream ORIENTATION SCHOOL: The Orienta reported a good VBS at Katrime. In tion school seems to have met a S'. Charles the walls are up on the real need. This was the first of its rew building. Flin Flan is concerned kind. Present were foreign mission about a replacement for the Koops aries on furlough and the majority and also a building extension. The ot our home missionaries as well Steinbach report included a short as local ministers and mission board account of the Barry Moore Crusade members Especially noticeable had where there had been 232 deci been the spirit of oneness and unity sions of which 95 were for salva reported Ben Firesen, Orientation tion. In Kleeield a leadership elec School secretary. Up to 75 people tion was coming up. Blumenort an had been present at one session. nounced a deacon ordination as well as a baptism service. In Rosen- MENNONiTE WORLD CONFERENCE: Har vey Plett was appointed to keep us Cat five had been baptized. informed on developments regard MEXICO trip: Nick Friesen, Morris ing travel, etc. reported on the exploratory trip un dertaken by him and Andrew Plett ■weddings: Concern -was expressed recently. Their main objective was over some modern trends creeping to look for new fields of service. into, our weddings. This led to the The open doors presented a real question of officiating at weddings where both parties were unsaved, challenge. etc. The Committee on Social Con BOARD OF missions: The Board of cerns was asked to further study Missions reported that they had one the matter. applicant. Th© Annual Missionary STUDENT ministry: H. Plett has been Conference is to take place on Oct. the represeniative since his appoint 7-9 at Rosenort. John Peters, Europe, ment last fall. He tenders his resig is to be the main speaker. The Al nation but is willing to help. Melvin fred Friesens who are now in Mex Koop, Winnipeg was elected to re place him. ico will be opening a new work in Nicuaragua in the near future. CHRISTIAN service: Christian Service Dora Friesen will serve at the Rio secretary reported that two workers, Lena and Nettie Brandt expect to Grande Bible Institute to January 1, leave for Germany around Septem 1967 after which she will be back ber 15. Another vzorker, Sarah Mar in Mexico. The Henry Klassens will tens, Kola will likely leave for Parfeports:

August 19, 1966

aguay around the middle of August. FRATERNAL DELEGATE: F. D. Reimer and Milton Fast had attended the Conference cf Me-.monites in Cana da convention held in Winnipeg as invited guests. F. D, Reimer report ed on the proceedings.

Mcc HALFWAY HOUSE: George Fast shares the need for a function of ihis sort for released prisoners. There is a crying need for such a service. The Committee on Social Concerns was asked to take this up.

ANNUAL conferences: The matter of one annual conference instead of the present two (Annual church conference and Annual Missionary Conference) was again brought up. This was referred for further study.

TRUST EVELYN ADAMS I cannot see beyond the turn Or know what lies ahead; But trusting in God’s loving care, I know that I’ll be led.

And so I put my hand in His And let Him take the lead, I’m striving hard to win the lost By word as well as deed. And He who leads me day by day I know some day I’ll see, For He has died and shed His blood To pay the ransom fee.

missionary r*j M RIENTATION SCH By the Editor '(

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Front row left to right: Mr, and Mrs. Alvin Kleinpeter, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Klassen, CBritisb Honduras): Mr. and Mrs, Arden Thiessen (Burns Lake), Mr. and Mrs. Peter Friesen. Mr. and Mrs. Henry Koop; Second row: Mr. and Mrs. Frank Braun, (Oak Lake Indian Reserve); Mr. and Mrs. Dan Koop CCreiqhion); Mr. and Mrs .Edwin Wright (^Endeavour): Betty Friesen (Mexico): Ellen Brell; Lenora Koop; Dora Friesen (Mexico); Betty Plett; Elizabeth Reimer; Margaret Unger. Third Row: Mr. and Mrs. Ed Friesen (Mexico): Mr. and Mrs. John Peters (Europe): Mr. and Mrs. Jake Kroeker (Mexico): Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Dueck; Mr. and Mrs. Dave Dueck; Mr. and Mrs. John Koop (Kamsack). Fourth Row; D. Schellenberg; Harvey Plett; Mr. and Mrs. Art Loewen; Lester Ollert (Weekes): C. B. Loewen. Alvin Doerksen (Gouldtown): F. D. P.eimer, Henry Kornelsen, P. L. Friesen. Arnold Fast. Fifth Row; Ben Friesen Abe Unger. Andrew Plett, H. P. Dyck, Milton Fast, Dave Eidse, Peter Barkman, John Loewen, Nick Friesen,

A mission orientation course, the first of its kind ever offered by the E.M.C. was conducted on the prem ises of the Steinbach Bible Institute August 1-4. Spearheading this fourday intensive missions orientation was the EMC Board of Missions. It was designed primarily for the home missions force but foreign mission aries also attended and participa ted All four days were filled with ac tivities from morning to night. From the rising bell at 6:30 to lights out, the day was filled with devotions, lectures, question periods, etc. One of the aims of the course was to acquaint missionaries with the workings of the Mission Board. The EMC Board of Missions has three sub-committees namely; Paraguay, Mexico and the Extension Com mittee. Speaking in behalf oi the work in Paraguay was F. D. Reimer, chairman of this committee. Nick Friesen gave a report on Mexico missions while Corny Plett and Ben Friesen spoke for Extension. This gave an overall view of what the EMC mission program consisted of. Each day began with chapel. The speakers here were, Henry Klassen, British Honduras, now on furlough; Elizabeth Reimer, Mexico; Abe Giesbrecht and one "sharing" devotion-

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Seen here are some ol the hard working men who contributed to the success oi the Orienta tion School. Millon Fast, chairman oi sessions: Ben Friesen, Abe Unger and Harvey Plett, Orientation school committee.

F. D. Reimer, chairman Paraguay Committee, with map at Paraguay.

THE MESSENGER

al chapel. The topics were: The Fioblems of the Devotional Life, The Pov/er of the Devotional Life and The Price of the Devotional Life. Harvey Plett, President Steinbach Bible Institute had a series on The Church. He spoke on The Nature of the Church; The Life of the Church and the Mission of the Church. In another lecture he dealt with Calvanism and Armenianism. These lectures were much appreciated and a request made to publish these talks. Abe Unger, past chairman EMC Board of Missions very ably dealt with Church History, concentrating mainly on Anabaptist church his tory and later the origin of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. This proved highly interesting. Mr. Unger bringing out many a thing that no doubt many were not inti mately acquainted with. Not only v/ere the lectures on church history interesting but also very pertinent and relevent giving us a new ap preciation for our church. P. L. Friesen, missions secretary treasurer spoke on Mission Econo mics. Finances are a vital part of any missions program. It was brought out that the Board has a good financial structure. A new handbook is to be published. Other matters touched on included: Outfits (both home and foreign) Applica(Cont'd. on page 10)

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Time out ior relaxing and visiting. Mr. and Mrs. John Peters, Europe; H. P. Dyck, Mac-

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The lectures on The Church at the Orientation school proved highly interesting. Lecturer H. Plett at board.

Even drying dishes was tun! Lester OMert, Weekes.

August 19, 1966

Food was served Caleieria styJe Jrotn the SB! kitchen,

1 NEWS I MORRIS CHAPEL

Seen here are two baptismal candidates who were baptized at our first baptismal service in the Morris chapel in July. They are Martha Brandl, daughter of H. H. Brandts, Morris, and Irma Remple, daughter of H. B. Remples, Rosenort. A fellowship supper was given by the Ladies Fellowship Group for members and their families in Assiniboine Park on Aug. 9 th. Rev. Loewen had a short message. Also jcining us from Winnipeg were the Abe Thiessens who worshipped with us while they lived in Morris. There was a very good turn out. We extend get well wishes to the Dave Sawatskys. Mr. Sawatsky is in hospital at present, and we hear that his wife is to go in also. May the Lord undretake for you! We are very happy to hear that Elmer Warkentin and Elma Brandt, both of our congregation have takeh up teaching posi tions in town. We believe this is a real step toward reaching the children by daily con tact and example.

FLIN FLON Camp Camp time is now a thing of the past. We are indeed thankful that our building pro jects at camp were completed in time for camp. Both the boys' dormitory and the float ing dock were very useful. A prayer re quest goes out on behalf of all the child ren who were saved or rededicated their

lives to the Lord at camp. Although the number of campers was lower this year than last year, the spirit was much better. Kids camp sow close to 30 campers out with about half of that amount in Teens camp. July 31 was a noteworthy day on our calender. The morning offering that Sunday was designated to be put into our building fund. We are still aware of our extension needs and are striving to gain some grounds in regards to this building project. This was also the Sunday that the Dan Koops left for Steinbach for a week orien tation classes. That same Sunday the evangelical church es joined hands for the evening service to view the film "Angry Jungle". Once again we were made aware of the peace we can enjoy in this country. This is so unlike the countries where communism is seeking to take a hold. On August 7, two young men substituted as "preacher" in place of our pastor who was still out in Steinbach. Jerry Koop was in charge of the morning service and Ben Dyck challenged us with his message in the evening. An important future event for the young people is the Youth Retreat at Steep Rock Bay. We hope to meet many old friends there and also to form new friendships. With holidays fast drawing to a close, we are praying that as souls come back to church they will in turn be registered in the Book of Life,

FELLY A highlight for your reporter and family in July was being able to attend the E.M.C. Annual Conference at Prairie Rose and also have a little holiday visiting with our sister in Winnipeg. Rev. and Mrs. Giesbrecht were busy with camp work during the month of July. One week at Crystal Lake and then two weeks at Steep Rock Bay. A number of children from this area spent a very enjoyable week at Crystal Lake Bible Camp. Mr. Russel Dell, wife and son from Minn eapolis, Minn, visited the Giesbrechts for the weekend and was guest speaker in the chapel on July 24th. Eight Vacation Bible School teachers from Man. arrived in Pelly last Sunday and ore conducting classes in four of the rural schools this week, Aug, 8-12, Rev. and Mrs. Jacob Dyck from Steinbach are also in the area supervising the work. RIDGEWOOD The last days of June brought our teach ers back home from the north, the Bill Pel

tiers, Gilbert Ungers and Don Thiessens from God's River and God's Narrows and Mildred Penner and Irma Janzen from Lynn Lake. An evening was set aside for these taechers to give us a report of their work, which was given to us in testimonies, songs, and slides, Sunday afternoon, July 10th, we had the privilege of having a group out from Valley Stream to present us with a program of songs and a challenging message. After the program the group was invited to the difierent homes for a fellowship meal. Thanks for coming and come again some time. July 31st communion service was held to again remind us of the Lord's death at Cal vary for our transgressions and that we are all one in Christ. August 1st was the day of the Ridgewood Youth Retreat which was held at the Grunthal Park. The day was spent with games, sing songs, and devotionals with Rev. Wilbret Loewen as the main speaker. Vacation Bible Schools Vacation Bible School has been taught at East Braintree and Giroux with a fairly good attendance of the children also the closing programs were well attended by the adults in the communities. Further plans are made to teach Bible school at Sandilands. The Bert Penners and Margaret Jan zen have been teaching Good News Clubs at Sandilands for the past year. The children seem to show interest in the work that has beer done so far. It is our prayer that souls might be won for Christ through this work. PORTAGE LA PRAIRIE The Lord's Supper was observed Sunday afternoon, July 17, 1966. Rev. Schellenberg and Rev. Dyck spoke and led in prayer as Christians gathered around the supper table and gave testimonies of the love and good ness of the Lord. A time of real blessing and strengthening is experienced as we re member all that the Lord has done. We are glad to have in our midst for the summer months Mr. and Mrs. Johnny Bark man and family of Steinbach. Mrs. Barkman assisted as teacher during DVBS.

MORWEENA Mr. Andrew Plett came back from a Mis sion tour in Mexico on July 15 after a three week stay. On July 25 he gave a very in teresting report of the work and the lack of missionaries in that area. Seven Families to Fellowship in Arborg At a meeting on July 30, it was decided that at least seven families would begin to fellowship in the Arborg Gospel Chapel ev-

THE MESSENGER

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ery Sunday morning. It is hoped that this may lead to a greater interest for those that need the word in tovm to come and fellow ship. The minister is Rev. Andrew Plett. The families going there are Pete F. Reimers, Walter Pletts, Menno Penners, Abram Pen ners, David Pletts and Richard Pletts.

Start Own Private School Since most of the schools in this area have been consolidated we have purchased the Morweena School to have a private elementery school. It is decided that we will be hav ing a two room school. The two teachers will be Mary Loewen and Rosalind Kroeker.

KOLA Kola had an ordination service here on July 17. Brother Menno Kroeker was or dained as minister and Brother Herb Penner as deacon. Rev. Frank D. Reimer of Land mark and our own pastor Rev. Art Neufeld performed the ordination ceremony. Rev. Elmer Reimer of Winner, South Dakota, was guest speaker.

A camp for Indian children was held here on July 18-24. Rev. Elmer Reimer was camp director. Henry Klassen, missionary on fur lough from British Honduras, also helped as counsellor at camp. Mr. and Mrs. Frank Braun, missionaries at the Griswold Indian Reserve and several others from the Kola and Heron congregations served as counsel lors and kitchen staff. Rev. and Mrs. Don P. Shidler were with us for an evening service on July 27. Most of us have learned to know and appreciate Rev. Shidler some time ago. This was the first time we had Mrs. Shidler in our midst. On Saturday, July 30, Sister Anne Kliewer was married to Brother Cecil Perlette from Virden. Sister Kliewer has been a faithful member of our congregation from its very beginning. We wish the newly married cou ple God's blessing. We had our Sunday school picnic at the Indian Camp grounds on July 31. After a program of devotional, Bible quizzes and contests we visited over our lunches and were treated to ice cream.

BIRTHS (KOLA) To Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Giesbrecht, a chos en daughter, Joanne Marie, on June 13. To Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Dueck, Wawota, Sask., a daughter, Jocelyn Dawn, July 15. To Mr. and Mrs. Norman Remple, a daugh ter, Christine Anne.

August 19, 196Q

OBITUARY — MR. PETER U. KORNELSEN 1893

1966

Peter U. Komelsen, oldest child of Jacob and Elizabeth W. Komelsen, was bom in Kleefeld on February 22, 1893. On July 20th, 1966, shortly before four o'clock in the after noon, his life of 73 years, 5 months, and 28 days came to its earthly close. Tfie influence of sound Christian training at home and in school made him relaize his need for salvation. He accepted Christ as his Saviour and was baptized by Bishop Peter R. Dueck and received as a member of the E.M. Church on June 22, 1913. On June 6, 1914, ho married the former Anna R. Reimer. Together they began their marriage with the hope and optimism of youth, farming in Blumenort and Kleefeld. After the first few good years came hard ships. They lost their home in Blumenort through fire in 1922. Later they experienced the trials and adversities of the depression, but their faith in God did not fail or falter. In 1950 they sold their farm in Kleefeld and retired to Blumenort village. They were pri vileged to share life's joys and sorrows for nearly 45 years when mother passed away suddenly on May 4, 1959. For father, there was deep sorrow in having his life's com panion removed from his side, and many lonely hours were spent in prayer and com mitment to Him who has promised to be with us always. Our beloved father did not have a college degree or wealth, but he knew the secret of Christian living. Ho gave more than he got, which put a smile on his face and a spring in his step. Honesty and integrity were matters of utmost importance with him, and money was only good for the good it did in relieving the suffering of the poor and needy. His love for people found pur pose by taking in and welcoming strangers and loved ones alike besides being foster parents to many, outside of their own child ren. He loved song and music and was always happy to join in the singing of the old favorite and beloved hymns of the church.

On Jan. 8, 1961, he was united in mar riage to Mrs. John W, Friesen, nee Katherine Harms. This second marriage though of short duration proved to be a blessing to both. He enjoyed working and was in relatively good health during his younger years but in 1948-49 he was very sick for many months. We did not expect him to get well but God in His grace gave health again. However since then he has been under almost con stant medical care, but he still was able to work. Although father rarely complained.

his gradual loss of hearing was a real cross in his life. For over twenty-five years he had to wear a hearing aid. His handicap greatly hindered his communication with others. 'Though the creeping years restricted his physical acitvities, he still remained alert, and greatly treasured the associaiton with friends and relatives. The cause of his death was rapid infec tion from a gall-bladder attack which he suffered during the night of July 17-18. He was taken to Bethesda Hospital at once. On Monday we were still hopeful but by Tuesday to the time of his death on Wed nesday, his decline was very rapid and sure. To those of us watching, it was hard to see his laboured breathing, but in the end he slipped quietly and peacefully into the Beyond and, with only his granddaughter, Luana of the immediate family at his bed side. Preceding him in death were his first wife, his parents, one sister, one brother, and one granddaughter. Surviving him are his wife, Mrs. Katharina Komelsen, two daughters: Elizabeth (Mrs .Dave Reimer), Helena (Mr;-. Ben Dueck), two sons: Jake of Mexico and Pete of Kleefeld; one step daughter, Mrs. Peter Klassen of Riverton; 55 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren and 7 brothers and 3 sisters. We his family are grateful for a father and husband whose spiritual interests at home and in the church have proven to be a definite factor in shaping the spiritual experiences of his children. He will be missed, but we would not wish him back, for now faith has become sight and hope a reality. "For now we see through a glass darkly; but ‘hen face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known." The Sorrowing Wite and Family. 'The funeral was held in Blumenort, Sot., July 23, We wish to thank all those who have shown their love and sympathy — to the ministers who served at the funeral and the ladies who helped with the light lunch.

Let come what may, Christ is my stay— My sure defense. Let come what may. He guides my way—

It is His will. Let come what may, I will obey— It’s His command. Let come what may, He makes night day— He is my friend!

THEOLOGY (Cont'd.) to our reciving all that the speaker says, there is a definite limit to what can be accomplished on Stmday mornings. How much Bible truth can a pastor cover in a life time of preaching half-hour sermons on Simday mornings? We cannot hope to receive a thorough ground ing in Bible faith by listening to half-hour sermons 52 Sundays a year (or was it 51 last year, or 40, or 30?) The Bible must have a much larg er place in our lives. Srmday school should be a “must" for everyone. Much more truth is gained in Sun day school than from the Sunday morning message. But even here, the teacher has a mere half-hour or .J.. / so per week to explain the Bible. So in addition to our church ser Sister Martens just prior to her departure at the Winnipeg Interna vice and Sunday school there could tional Airport on Tuesday morning, be another meeting, a discussion type of Bible study that would be of Aug. 16. tremendous benefit in our lives. It The Christian Service Committee might meet in various homes; it takes pleasure in announcing the would be very personal, making ev appointment of Miss Sarah Martens eryone a front-bencher. In this hour of discussion, prob for service in Paraguay as a mis lems would come up that could sionary teacher. Sister Martens is a graduate of never be voiced in the Sunday the Steinbach Bible Institute and the morning church senvice, or the Sun Manitoba Teachers College, and day school class, or the brethren has several years teaching experi meeting, or any other church meet ence. She will relieve in the newly ing. At this gathering a few Christ established school in East Paraguay ians, or non-Christians too for that matter, would bring up their needs started by Frank Kroeker. or problems. These problems would then be discussed and the answers would be sought in Scripture. WHAT THEY SAID. All this will never take the place of personal Bible study, where the ORIENTATION SCHOOL — WORTHWHILE? Christian reads and meditates and "I have found this orientation very helpful." —D. D. asks the Holy Spirit to reveal truths that he needs. But private Bible "I think there should be an Orientation school every year." study will be of help in any group "I strongly favour an orientation course. I have been greatly discussion of problems and needs. blessed and encouraged by it . . ." —A minister Conversely, group discussion will help the Christian in thinking about "I would suggest an orientation course to be held about every these problems and praying for them other year . . ." in private. Both personal Bible study Very good. By all means have another . . . Include a day of and group Bible discussions will fasting and prayer as well as communion . . . help us in latching on to the Sun "I am definitely in favour of annual get-togethers such as this one. day morning sermon. The sermon I felt a strong unifying factor in aims and purposes ..." —A. D. that the pastor has thought through so well, will have a much greater "I believe that this type of gathering was overdue. . . ." —A minister meaning for us. "The fellowship was a blessing . . . Discussions were open and Church renewal is the business frank and one recognized a spirit of understanding ..." of each of us, and each one of us "It gave me a deeper understanding of the problems and difficul must make decisions on the direc ties that the Mission Board, different committees and missionaries tion our lives and our churches will face. Thus being able to pray more effectively . . . take in the years to come.

ORIENTATION SCHOOL (Cont'd.) tions, Probation period. Offerings, Love Gifts and the activities of mis sionaries while on furlough. Other Missions, was discussed by John Peters, Europe. Brother Peters voiced his appreciation of Confer ence relationships towards other Missions. In the matter of preference though it was felt that the Board has its primary responsibility to its own fields. Keen interest was shown in the discussion periods. Some topics touched on were: Local member ship, Should the missionary or pro bationer be a member of his church. Should a probationer be Pastor of a group he is serving? What about material aid? Does it affect the pro clamation of the Gospel? At another discussion period the matter of feet washing was brought up. Then there was the matter of offerings at new stations. Yes or no? What about Peace marches and Paxmen? etc. Chairing the meetings was Milton Fast, chairman General Mission Board. The Orientation school com mittee consisted of Abe Unger, chairman; Ben Friesen, secretary and Harvey Plett, Was it a worthwhile venture? Those who were there (see sepa rate reports) said yes. Should it be held again? Again the answer was yes. But maybe not every year.

CHRISTIAN SERVICE APPOINTMENT

THE MESSENGER

Faculty And Staff of Steinbach Bible Institute 1966-67 Rev. Harvey Plett, M.A.. B.D. Mr, Bill Derksen, B.4.

President Dean of Students Bible

High School cmd Music Department

Rev. Ben Hoeppner, B.Th.. M.A.

Mr. Alvin Reimer Dean of Bible Bible

Voice

Mr. Edwin Plett, B.A.. B.D.

Mr. Neil Friesen, B.A., B.Th. Dean of High School Bible and High School

Bible and High School

Miss Doreen Reimer, B.A.

Mr. Melvin Friesen, B.A. Dean of Women High School

High School

Rev. Ben Friesen Public Relations

Miss Gertrude Giesbrecht Secretary

For Catalogue or other intormation. Write to

Steinbach Bible Institute Box 7420

Steinbach, Manitoba

ASHAMED OF OUR RELIGION?

D. Fast KetcWMav.

Gtrnifiy FOR THE BUSY READER

THE MAIL

The mail started about 3800 B.C. when Sargon, King of Babylonia, handed messages to a newly or ganized band of runners. They de parted to all parts of his empire to iho sound of golden trumpets. To day's mail is more likely to inspire groans than trumpets . . . The esti mated cost per letter in an office, for secretarial work, indirect labour, materials and postage, ranges from $2.97 to 1.43. (Royal Bank Monthly Letter). You missionaries and others far from home — is a fetter worth $2.97 to you? "LORD, DELIVER ME" If you passed by a river and saw c man drowning, you doubtless would plunge into the stream to res cue him. You might save the manfrom drowning but you would not feel compelled to follow him about for the rest of his life, just in case he should fall into the water again. How different it is when the Lord Jesus Christ saves a man. He is more than a Saviour; He is a deli verer. (The Beacon)

INTERESTED IN SPEED? This is an interesting fact; Christ ians who go on their knees go much faster. So if you want the most di rect route to happiness, get on your knees before God. (Clyde M. Narramore in Young Only Once) MONEY? NOT ME! Sometimes we are hesitant to talk about possessions. Not so Jesus

A Japanese girl who was study ing in on American college was in vited to spend the Christmas holi days with a classmate. Afterward, when asked how she liked it, she replied that she liked it very well, but she said she missed God in the home. "I hove seen you worship in your church," she said, "but in our country we have a god-shelf so we can worship in our homes. Do not you Americans worship God in your homes?" (Our Daffy Bread) FOR BUSY CHRISTIANS

I am convinced that the death of great saints in these times even Christ. Of the 38 parables that Je among those who truly believe in sus taught, 16 were related to mon Christ is due at least in part to our un ey or possessions. He probed the willingness to give sufficient time to consciences of people. How did they the cultivation of the knowledge of obtain their money? How did they God. We are of the nervous west and spend their money? What did mon victims of the philosophy of activism ey do to them? Jesus had more to tragically misunderstood. Getting say about possessions than about and spending, going and returning, any of the outstanding doctrines organizing and promoting, buying like repentance, the new birth, hea and selling, working and playing— this alone constitutes living . . . Our ven and hell. (Africa Now). religious activities should be or RADIO dered in such a way as to leave Recognizing that there is much plenty of time for the cultivation of duplication of religious radio, we the fruits of solitude and malice. favour a new approach to religious (A. W. Tozer). broadcasting. Instead of Sunday broadcasts we should try to buy CHANGE commuter-time (7-9 a.m. and 4-6 Tomorrow will be a critical day p.m.) with broadcasts prepared ac in the life of the Mennonite church. cordingly. This means that our Fortunately, periods of crisis are of broadcasting could truly become "missionary" broadcasting. (from ten the great periods of productivity. ^Ontario Mennonite Evangel^ an open letter to members oi Con ference of Mennonites in Canada'). CRUSADE LOOK FOR THE STARS One secret of Billy Graham's For threading a needle, light is power in San Francisco was his indispensable. But an astronomer ability to bring Christians into touch needs darkness to see the stars. with one another by omitting the Some of our greatest spiritual ex things that divide them. There was periences come to us in times of a notable absence of the labels, darkness, experiences that we could cliches and stock phrases that never knov'- in the light. Whatever Christians normally use to disting may be the darkness that oversha uish themselves. An even more im dows your soul . . . the death of a portant secret was his appeal to loved one, or a shattered dream, or youth. Probably the Holy Spirit's broken health, or suffering, or an greatest work in the Crusade vzas xiety . . . look up through the dark done with young people. They ness and you will see the stars of seized enthusiastically upon the God's presence and the glory of His hope and purity that he held out to grace more clearly than ever before. them in Jesus Christ. (Crusade at (Dr. Wayne Dehoney). Golden Gate — Billy Graham).