The Messenger October 28, 1966

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October 28, 1966 Vol. 4 No. 22

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IN THIS ISSUE

'■Church Renewal (VII) 3 Answering the Call 4

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ren of indiviuality and hope. We must be careful here that we do not throw out the baby with the bath­ water, as the saying goes. We council with the child over his foolish unpremeditated action but we do not reject him. We remember that he is in the process of being, brought up.

And thus we could possibly go on. But let us con­ sider one further thought while we are on the sub­ ject; the victory of Christ over Satan. THE WRONG DOOR

Our office is located where formerly the Ag-Rep's. office was. Occassionaly someone drops in by mistake thinking this is still the Agriculture office. So it hap­ pened that the other day a man came in for a de-horner. Perfectly natural in its place. But we did'nt hcrve such an article in the office of the Board of Education and Publication of the EMC. Later I was struck with the comedy of the situation. Wouldn't a spiritual dehorner come in mighty handy sometimes? How often we would have liked to "dehorn someone who rubs us the wrong way. Rare is the person who does'nt have someone whom he would like to trim down to size. How handy it would be to have a tool by which he could do this.

Maybe it's the pastor. He should tone down his message. He is forever preaching against sin. If this is so maybe it's time that we got our spiritual sights lined up. We are living in an age of grossly mixed up values. The Bible, God's Word, which is forever settled in heaven needs to return as the standard and norm. In the days of the judges everyone did that which was right in his own eyes. But God sent Judges to bring the people back to Himself. We must preach against sins and it's follies. Young people are seething and boiling over restric­ tions which they feel are Victorian and straight-laced and not in keeping with the times. They chafe under this "yoke". They would like to rob their parents of this tool and be "free". Not knowing that this kind of freedom will in the latter end lead to a bondage that they cannot break.

Pastors might like to dehorn certain individuals in their congregation who are always causing strife and dissention. But again, there is no mechanical way of doing this. We must needs go home by the way of the cross. There is no other way but this. And we ne'er get sight of the gates of light. If the way of the cross we miss. Love never fails! An unthinking parent may sometimes use the de­ horner of unquestioning authority to rob his child-

On the cross, Jesus once and for all broke the pow­ er of the Devil. His power over the child of God has been destroyed, for we read, for this purpose the Son oi God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the Devil. (I John 3:8) And having spoiled principalities and powers He made a show of them openly, triumphing over them. (Col. 2:15) Now Paul says, sin shall not have dominion over you. (Rom. 6:14).

IN TIMES LIKE THESE

One of the characteristics of human nature is that we can spout long and loud over the ills of this world but present no solution on how to resolve the sit­ uation. If we go to the intellectual we find an adept­ ness at avoiding issues and posing more problems. Needed today are people like the children of Issarchar (I Chron. 12:32) that had an understanding of the times and knew what Israel ought to do. Many can tell us what's wrong; few can tell us what to do. Too often we are like the person who rushed up to a man standing on the street corner and asked if he had seen a group of people go by. The man re­ plied, "Yes, they went that way a few minutes ago." The inquirer rushed off and yelled back over his shoulder, "I've got to catch them. I'm their leader."!

Is there such a thing as a congregation getting ahead of it's spiritual leaders? I believe yes. In the pleasure-minded age we are living in, the temptation for many is great. Spiritual values and norms go by the board for a mess of pottage. May God open our eyes and give us men who will not only discern the times but also know what ought to be done. —D. S.

REPORTERS THIS ISSUE: Rosenort, Johnnie Loewen; Blumenort, Rev. J.R. Dueck; Weekes, Lester Olfert; Riverton, Miss Mary Harms; Arden, Mrs. Nick Dueck; Endeavour, Ruth Downey. COVER photo: Courtesy Manitoba Department of In­ dustry and Commerce.

The Messengee is the publication oi the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. Its purpose is Io inlonn. instruct and inspire. Inform as Io what is going on in the Conference. Instruct in Godliness and victorious living. Inspire to earnestly contend for the faith. All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor. D. K. Schellenberg, The Messenger, Box 1268, Steinbach, Man. Changes of address should be sent to 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 <jr payment of postage in cash. Printed by Deluxe Printing. Steinbach. Manitoba, Canada.

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THE MESSENGER

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CHURCH RENEWAL (VII)

Nowhere in Scripture do we find believers fellow shipping together with unbelievers in churches. When the world leels at home in our churches we have become too much like them.

H. P. Dyck is pasfoj o/ the MacGregor EMC church. He also oversees the Arden and Valley Stream work. Before going to MacGregor the Dycks lived in Steinbach.

"6 6 THE IVA/y ANf> MOW OF eUBATeil SPIRITUAL VIGOUR 2. ■»

By Henry Dyck

The need for a greater spiritual vigour in the church is everywhere evident. Recently I have discussed this topic with several other pastors and without exception they express a desire for more spirituality, a deep­ er spiritual walk; a revival in the church. A greater spiritual vigour in the church is needed because of

CHURCH WORLD RELATIONSHIPS I want to briefly compare what the world said of the New Testa­ ment Church and what the world says, and how it reacts, to the church today. In Acts 11:26 we read the world called the disciples CHRISTIANS. The reason I say the world called them Christians is because I believe only disciples constituted the church, and it does not say they called themselves Christians, b u t they were called Christians. Christians are Christ-followers, Messiah imi­ tators, O that this were true today. At best in many instances we are called a bit religious, maybe only Mennonites. I am convinced that if we were really Christ followers. Walking in His steps of Holiness, love and com­ passion the world would see the dif­ ference. Milton T. Wells in Ids article Ev­ angelicals at the Cross Roads, Life October 28, 1966

in The Spirit March 1965 says; with Him whose name we bear. "Churches have not rejected the As a result God cannot demonstrate Apostles Creed, but they have pre­ his power in and through us, and sumed to modify the Apostles stand­ the world laughs, and questions ards. They have retained the cross the authority of the Christ, the word as God's way of atonement, but of God and the relevancy of its mes­ have denied it as His way of life. sage. Daniel said to God, "The hea­ They proclaim Christ as Saviour then mock You because Your city but condone practices which deny lies in waste because of our sins." Him as Lord. They have exchanged 9:16 L.L. the "costly grace" of Calvary with In our day and age we have lost the "cheap grace" of easy believism which require neither repentance, the Go in the gospel and substitut­ restitution, separation nor obed­ ed it with Come. " Come feel right ience." If this is true are we than at home in our churches, don't be any longer entitled to the name afraid." We have forgotten the pur­ Christian? Can the world see Jesus pose of the church which is to be a in us?The New Testament world place of fellowship and prayer for knew Christ of the New Testament the believers. Nowhere in script­ Church as they beheld the walk of ure do we find believers fellowshiping together with unbelievers in the New Testament Christian. churches. When the world feels at After God had cleansed the early home in our churches we have be­ church of that first intrusion of world­ come too much like them. Harnack, liness, Acts 5, we read that "fear the historian, said the Church influ­ came upon all the church" and in enced the world the most, when it verse 13 "of the rest durst no man was unlike the world. Today in join himself to them." This not only many churches the unsaved can tells us that the Christian had a god­ stomp through the church, take part ly fear lest he sin and grieve a Holy in its activities, be a part in its act­ God, but the world was also afraid of ivities, be a part of services intend­ the church and the power of God. ed to bring others the Gospel with­ Today we see the exact opposite. out being gripped with the fact that The world is no longer afraid of the it is a fearful thing to fall into the church. They don't mind sitting to­ hands of a living God." gether with, or even in the church. Being connected with the church The reason for this is not because God and his word hove lost their in some way is a popular thing topower, but we are out of fellowship cont'd. on page 11.

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Pictured here is the little town of Soufriere, St. Lucia, West Indies

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Afiiiming tke Caft jjj Duly By Gladwin Pleft

The day we had thought of and typing machine and a P.A. system planned for, say more than three into the Chastries customs early hundred days, had dawned! Tuesday morning July 19. The rousing send-off of the previ­ Underway ous night more than vindicated our Chicago's "fire of the year" answers to the oft asked questions: smoked up the free way pretty bad­ "Are you going back again?" ly just when we entered. Of course "Are you going to the same soon after we entered we were place?" parked studying the map to find "To which island are you going the way to Missionary Equipment. this time?" "Ah, you can't be all that lost, The odds and ends of unfinished coming from Florida!" the Cruiser "things" seems endless when a to­ Cop offered, as he pulled along­ tal clean-up is in effect. With the side. In typical policeman's style last box nailed up, the last account he fitted us with the finest directions, paid up and the last piece of furni­ repeating them a number of times ture returned to its rightful owner, slowly. A map? Not for a Chicago we turned our faces southward-des­ Cop! tination? St. Lucia! Missionary Equipment equipped Over three thousand miles by us well, however until we retired ' Chrysler," one long flight by Brit­ for the night the children were ish West Indian Airways "Sunjet," cramped for space on the rear seat. and one short flight by BWIA Vis­ By next morning though, the same count: in short, a two week pil­ items minus bulky packaging took grimage to our former island home. up much less space. Saturday, July 9 we were wel­ Points of interest and happenings comed at the Myron VanNada's. enroute? No, we had no problems with Eleven years ago almost to the date customs nor immigration at any port. we had been the first to visit them Not aven when we carted a new when they moved to Grand Blanc. accordion (brought along for one Now they felt close to us, even as of our national pastors), a new we did to them I. shared his Sun-

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day School class Sunday morning and also gave the message during the worship service. Though having served in this church for only three mxonths so many years ago, it sliowed a singular interest in our going forth. Ever been in a "Drive-in-church"? I spoke at one the same Sunday night. The Bethany Baptist Church sponsors one during the summer months. Fellowship with this spirit­ ual group was meaningful. At the Head Office The Mission's Head Office in Pennsylvania halted travel for a good day and a half. Fellowship, business, laundry, some pleasant memories plus meeting the other furloughing "Plett family" in the Mission, quickly filled in the stay. Oil can refilled and fuel replen­ ished, we started out for Miami, mid-day Wednesday. Miami Travelling the scenic routes had been the fare most of the way so far, but the last motoring day side­ tracked us onto the "Sunshine State Parkway." Registering well over seven hundred miles for the day we finally bedded down in a motel in Miami at eleven p.m. Friday. If we hadn't already settled the bill we might have looked for an­ other. Why? Simply because this motel (Cuban operated) was func-' tioning minus maid service! Obvi­ ously our bed linens had already rested some other weary traveller the previous night. (Service for Less!!!) What was yet to be, before de­ parture Monday afternoon at two? Finalizing flight tickets, necessary shopping for tropical clothes, call­ ing at the Thompson's and Dalke's, for fellowship and meals, arranging for sale of the "Old Chrysler", (not one flat all the way, only one ticket to get burned headlamp replaced) repacking the baggage, and enjoy­ ing American restaurant service in anticipation of the West Indies, and, well, that's just about it.

MISSIK THE MESSENGER

It Just Had to Happen Simday July 17 we accompanied the Thompson's to an Independent Baptist Church where they were re­ ceived as members the same morn­ ing. To be sure my baggage was over­ weight 1 was prepared to pay too. Having foimd I was a missionary, the ticket clerk waived it. Really it vzas our St. Lucian pastor's advan­ tage, for it was his accordion that was weighed in along with my luggage. It just had to happen! Just when our flight was announced, and we were filing out, my poor old grip that I was carrying (to absorb some weight) collapsed. Quickly I undid my belt and strapped the ailing bag . . . Airborne BWIA's "Sunjet" took us from Miami to Barbados in fine style. Had we liked alcoholic beverages we could have gotten ourselves well drunk meanwhile. We preferred iced tea or orange juice—no cost! A short flight next morning, July 19, landed us safely in St. Lucia. Due to misunderstanding of flights, our colleagues were expecting us in the afternoon. We did surprise them when we met them in Castries shortly after a cab took us and bag­ gage into town. New Location Where do we go from here? To the newly rented house (Sa­ phire by name) near the Diamond Falls, of course. Unoccupied for many years this place was (and sitll is) in need of a thorough go­ ing over. We are grateful for the house and its location. It is quiet and cool yet not too for removed from Soufriere. Our charge is much like during last term, except that we have a goodly number of souls to "follow up" with Bible instructions in Sou­ friere. A second group in Debrail has also been placed under our care. Project Compassion "Project Compassion" is made up of a Doctor and family, a Dentist and a goodly number of R.N.'s (three of whom are married) most of which hail from Bob Jones Uni­ versity. This team made a great impact, both spiritually and med-

ically on Soufriere, not to mention the rest of the Isle. Correlated with medical work were Child Evangel­ ism classes, open air services, Bible Classes and Evangelism in its var­ ious forms. Except for the doctor and his fam­ ily, the rest of the team was vir­ tually new in the tropics and in missionary work as it is known in the West Indies. How we would wish that all those who "called on the Lord" would hcEve followed Him. Alas! This happens not to be the case. To the Work So: summing up matters for the moment, we got orientated and ad­ justed to the team (their project terminated within a month), we started cleaning and occupying the house, we did our best in getting to know the scores of "new believ-

ers", we proceeded to get adjusted to new missionary personnel—the Basil Bickels (WIM'ers) and Miss Bertha Thiessen (an MCC'er teach­ ing in the Mission Elementary School), we have just finished building a set of new church bench­ es, and we are looking to the Lord for His blessings upon both of our gioups as we insirucl, pray with and guide the brethren to win others for Him. Furthermore we are much encouraged with those who appear to be genuine. The initiation of this term has been strenuous, but we know that the Lord is, and will continue to vzork out all things according to the good pleasure of His will. This then is an account of just a short journey within the long jour­ ney toward that "better counry." Galdwin Flett

Missionaries Arrive in British Honduras Box 290, Belize City, British Honduras October 6, 1966 Deor Friends, Just a note to let you know of our safe arrival. We are grateful for the prayers that have gone up to the throne of grace as we travelled a little more than 4,000 miles. We trust that you will continue to pray as we take up our re­ sponsibilities here in the place of God's appointment. The native believers gave us a very warm welcome and were very glad to see us back. It was a real blessing to fellowship with them again last night at the regular mid-week Bible study and prayer meeting. We are indeed grateful to each one that has had part in making it possible for us to serve Christ in B.H. May the Lord reward. Your fellow labourers, Henry, Ramona, Phillip, Terry and Ladine Klassen

ANNOUNCEMENT The Extension Committee of the EMC Board of Missions would like to announce the appointment of Rev. D.K. Schellenberg as Field­ man, on a part time basis. His duties will be to make personal con­ tact with our home missionaries and report to the committee. We encourage our constituency to pray for brother Schellenberg. Extension Committee Ben Friesen - Chairman

October 28, 1966

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1______ NEWSI WEEKES FALL Fall, with all its brilliant color and activ­ ities, has come and gone. The trees hove lost their leaves, the ground is bare and uncolorful. Here and there houses are being banked up, ready for what the cold how­ ling wind suggests. Soon we will be in an­ other season with its varied activities. But as we look back, on the last several weeks, we remember with joy and praise the many blessings received. September 25 was our Sunday School pro­ motion day. We were glad to see several parents come to participate in the promo­ tion, and back up the children in their spir­ itual training. A short program was ren­ dered by the children. We then viewed a Moody Press film which depicted God's greatness and his intricate plan in forming life The pastor had a very timely talk di­ rected to the children, which he continued in the worship service, directing it then to the parents.

FULL HOUSE On October 2 we had our Thanksgiving service, followed by a fellowship dinner, and concluded with a singspiration. It was good to see the house of the Lord filled to overflowing. The Hudson Bay group joined us in this service. The pastor spoke force­ fully to our hearts on giving thanks out of gratefulness, love and devotion with a pure motive. Young peoples clubs and other activities have again started as the school year be­ gins. Pray for those attending that God will remove pride, rebellion and stubbornness and that there will be a reaping of souls and a yieldedness to God, PROBLEMS The Hudson Bay work is encouraging as far as the spiritual church is concerned. The physical church however, has its problems. The basement that has been dug for the church is full of water, the water level being high and a constant stream flowing into it. The sump pump has been installed, how­ ever, and the footing will be poured as soon as the water is drained. We trust God to hold this situation entirely in His hands, and ask that you will join hands with us in fervent prayer.

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ROSENORT MISSIONS CONVENTION Our local congregation was fortunate to host the 12th annual missions convention of our conference on Oct. 7-9, On Sunday, the last day of the convention, the church was packed and many guests had to find room in the lower auditorium. From 750-800 people were present during the final session. We were sorry that better accomodation could not be provided, but hope that everyone who was in attendance heard and saw enough to be challenged anew to serve the Lord more faithfully in the whitened har­ vest field.

THANKSGIVING Rev, Edward Friesen had the 'Thanksgiving message on Monday evening Oct. 10. Bro. Jake Kroeker made appropriate remarks du­ ring the opening of the service. Both the Friesens and the Kroekers plan to return to the Mexico Mission field within the next few weeks. EXTENSION As was mentioned in an earlier report, the Jake Kroekers took on the work at Miami which was started after the Vacation Bible School. Since the Kroekers are planning to leave for the south, this responsibility has now been given to the Levi Duecks and the Ernie Siemens. The George Brauns and Peter Kroeker are continuing the work at Woodlands. Bro. Kroeker is also a teacher in the public school at Woodlands.

GRADUATION Graduation Exercises at the Rosenort Col­ legiate were held on Friday, Oct. 15. Rev. Bernie Wiebe, a familiar voice on the Abun­ dant Life program, was the guest speaker. Graduates were Anne Kornelsen, Esther Loewen, Elvira Dueck, Irene Kroeker, Sylvia Dueck, Lavina Brandt, Paulina Reimer, Dan­ ny Loewen, Richard Kroeker and Ken Fries­ en. BIBLE SCHOOL A number of our local young people have again enrolled at the Steinbach Bible Institute. They are Helen Friesen, Myrna Friesen, Mary Ann Eidse, Florence Eidse, Katie Friesen, Mary Loewen, Merna Loe­ wen, Hilda Friesen, Irene Kroeker, Paulina Reimer, Betty Reimer, Elma Friesen, Eliza­ beth Loewen, Ernie Loewen, Peter Friesen, Lome Friesen, Erwin Kroeker, and Leonard Loewen. This list includes six from the Plea­ sant Valley EMC.

DEEPER LIFE MEETINGS Rev. Ben Hoeppner, instructor at the Stein­ bach Bible Institute, has consented to con-

duct a series of Deeper Life Meetings be­ ginning on Tuesday, Nov. 1. As Christians get right with God, the unconverted will no doubt respond more readily to the invita­ tion extended them.

BLUMENORT

DEDICATION SERVICE AT ANOLA On the night of October the ninth, the people of Anola, together with many guests from Blumenort, gathered at the new chapei to dedicate the building to the Lord's work. The opening singing was led by Ralph Unger, Ben Wiebe, the leader of the group at Anola, was the chairman of the dedica­ tion service. Two groups, a ladies’ quartet " and a men's quartet, favoured the audience with several songs. Rev. Melvin Koop of St. Charles delivered the dedicatory mes­ sage and prayer. In his message he outlined the requirements of a God-honouring ded­ ication. The closing remarks were made by Rev. Melvin Penner. Following the ser­ vice, a well-prepared lunch was served by the ladies of Anola. Every Sunday morning approximately fifty to sixty sparkling eyes greet the teachers al the Anola Fellowship Chapel. Those pres­ ently instructing are Ben Wiebe, LeRoy Bark­ man, Ralph Unger, Elfrieda Thiessen, and Margaret Rose Barkman. Worship services are conducted on the second and fourth Sundays of each month where about ten to fifteen adults attend very regularly. The speaker at these services is the Rev. Melvin Penner. It is our prayer that this dedication service will have aroused a new spirit of dedication in the heart of everyone present so that the Lord's kingdom will also be furthered in the district of Anola. Leroy Barkman

ENDEAVOUR Approximately fifteen young people from the chapel accompanied Mr. and Mrs. Friesen to the Senior Citizens Hostel in Preceville on Sunday, Oct. 2. A program consisting of group singing, special vocal and instrument­ al numbers and a message from the Word was held, followed by a light lunch and time of fellowship with the folks there.

A film entitled "The Search" was shown following, the regular afternoon service on Oct. 16. This film portrayed the work of Mennonite Broadcasting Incorporated and proved encouraging as we look forward to the "spot" programs over our local radio station CJGX.

THE MESSENGER

A large number gathered in the Chapel on Wednesday evening, Oct. 19 -when Miss Pcnnie Friesen a missionary candidate to the Greater Europe Mission was with us. Miss Friesen showed some very interesting slides on Germany, stressing the sharp di­ vision between Communism and freedom which exists in that country.

ARDEN

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Eph. 3:20 "Our Lord" — is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us." What a blessing and yet by my weakness and shortcomings I often limit this great power of God. Bro. and Sis. Gilbert Plett are residing on a farm north of Arden since this summer. Mrs. Plett is a school teacher and has had a number of opportunities to substitute at the Arden Collegiate which is greatly apprec­ iated. Mrs. Eunice Johnson of Child Ivangelism from Brazil gave a very challenging re­ port in church on the 25th of Sept. The church was almost filled and the need of workers in Brazil was shown with slides. Rev. Clark a blind missionary under the Salvation Army sang some lovely hymns accompanied by his accordian the same evening. He can only read in braille and his Bible weighs 120 lbs. On Thanksgiving Sunday a well attended program was held in the evening with Bro. Dick Buhler from Wpg. bringing the Thanks­ giving Message. Lunch was served after the service as a farewell for Bro. and Sis. Peter K. Plett. They left for Geneva, Nebras­ ka to work in The Sunshine Home for the aged. We wish them the Lord's blessings in their work. Bro. and Sister Art Plett and family and Bro. and Sis. Elmer Barkman and family have both purchased farms north of Arden. We are happy to see the Art Pletts at Bible Study and church while they are working their land here. We understand that both couples are planning to move over in spring.

Ben Klassen Construction on East View Home is nearing completion. The 75 bed home for the aged is to be ready by the end of Dec. Mr. Dennis Patterson has again taken on duties as teacher in the Arden Collegiate and we are looking forward to having a choir again.

Bro. and Sis. Abe Neufeld moved to Rivers as he is working for Bro. Jake Mart­ ens. Bro. and Sis. Abe Doerksen have received

October 28, 1966

n blessed addition to their family, a baby boyl Les, John, and Peter Plett left for further Bible and Missionary training in the States.

Steinbach Bible iNCTirutK

RIVERTON GOSPEL CHAPEL PRAYER ANSWERED We praise the Lord for answering the players of His children for a pastor for the Riverton Gospel Chapel. The Edwin Wrights (former missionaries at Endeavor) have come to serve in Riverton. We extend a hearty welcome to you! LADIES ORGANIZE On Sept. 26th a meeting was called to organize the Sunday School program for the coming year. The same evening a Lad­ ies Fellowship Group was organized. Mrs. Edwin Wright was elected president, Mrs. John Klassen vice-president and Mrs. Pete Loewen secretary. Our prayer is that the endeavours of this group will aid in bring­ ing many from darkness to light. The Ladies Group went to work immed­ iately. They planned a delicious Thanks­ giving supper for Oct. 10. The event turned out to be a good success. After the supper we enjoyed a tremendous hour of inspiration and blessing as we gathered together for an informal Thanksgiving program. Truly the eager contributions of stories, poems, duets, solos and quartets created in us a spirit of rejoicing. "May the Spirit of Thanksgiving motivate us to daily Thanksliving." GOOD NEWS CLUBS On Oct. 16th a big group attended the evening service. Mr. Durston for the Good News Clubs of Manitoba served us with a very interesting message. He also had an interesting display of visual aids. As a result of this meeting Good News Clubs will bo started in Riverton.

PLEASANT VALLEY

A baptismal service was held in the Plea­ sant Valley church with five candidates being baptized. These were: Lome Reimer, Barry Dueck, LuAnna Siemens, Norma Kor­ nelsen and Laura Loewen. On Thanksgiving Day the church gathered for a fellowship supper in the basement of the church. After this, the choir rendered a program called. The Greatness of God." The choir has been actively engaged in rendering this program at Roland, Columbine and Opawaka-the extension areas of our church. Eight students of our midst are again at­ tending the Steinbach Bible Institute. This inclucles our pastor, Frank K. Friesen, who is in his third year.

OPENING EXERCISES, STEINBACH BIBLE INSTITUTE The official opening of the Stein­ bach Bible Institute was held in the E.M.B. church on Oct. 16 at 7:30 p.m. Chairing the meeting was Rev. Ben Friesen of the SBI staff. "We believe the Lord has answer­ ed prayer in behalf of the Steinbach Bible Institute" said the new pres­ ident Harvey Plett. He referred to the increase in students over last year. There are now 140 enrolled. Mr. Plett then went on to intro­ duce the staff. Some of these were on the staff for the first time. They were teachers Neil Friesen and Mel­ vin Friesen and Mr. and Mrs. John Unrau. Mr. Unrau is on maintenance and Mrs. Unrau cooks. Brother Plett also noted that this was the first year out of 24 Opening Exercises that Rev. B.D. Reimer was absent. He is on leave of absence in a Mis­ sions assignment in Paraguay. Two messages were delivered in the course of the eveing. One, Stu­ dents in the School of Jesus, by Rev. Hoeppner and the other. The Task of Chiistian Education, by Harvey Plett. Other items included three num­ bers in song. .Henry Kornelsen chair­ man of the board presided at tak­ ing the offering. Ed Plett, another staff member made closing remarks.

COMING EVENTS

Oct. 30 - Nov. 6. Missionary Conference, Steinbach EMC. John Peters, main speaker. Oct. 30-Nov. 6—Evangelistic services at Ridgewood. Spea­ ker: Rev. Frank Koop, Wpg.

Oct. 30-No'V.4—Deeper Life meetings at Prairie Rose with Melvin Koop. Nov. 5,6. Mis­ sionary Conference at Prairie Rose. John Peters speaker.

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Missionary Conference The E.M.C. Twelfth annual mis­ Other workers in Paraguay from plan to go. Extension Report sion conference convened at the here are Ernest Funks, Pete Martens, The Extension Committee report Rosenort church this year. This year and Sara Loeppky. Doors are open therewas one main speaker. Rev. for Mission work in this Land Re­ consisted of different people from John Peters missionary on furlough porting for the P.M.A. (Paraguay the Extension churches of Oak Riv­ from Germany. Bro. Peters had four Mission Auxiliary) was Dave Loe­ er Indian Reserve and Riverton Gos­ wen. The PMA operates the mission pel Chapel coming to the platform messages. The main theme was. Ye Are farm on the shareholder plan. There with songs and testimonies. This,, Witnesses. Some of the topics of are now 43 members. A share costs "live" presentation seemed to get a good reception. There were two brother Peters' messages were the $600.00 songs by the children of the Oak R. Mexico Report Icllowing: Ye Are Salt, Ye Are the Taking part in the report on Mex­ Indian reserve under the direction of Light of the World and Ye Are Wit­ ico was Ed Friesen, Andrew Plett missionary Frank Braun. Testimonies nesses. Illustrations were brought in out of his own experience in Europe. and Nick Friesen. Brother Ed Frie­ were given by Mr. Demos Dowan Tho messages were challenging sen spoke on the Bible school move­ and Mrs. Olive Steel. Marvin John­ ment. He gave a brief history. This son and Jim Garret had come from and inspiring. Riverton. Both gave testimonies In addition to the other items on can be traced back to the year 1963 General Board Report when there was talk of a joint ef ­ the program each of the three com­ Milton Fast gave the General Mis­ fort with the (Old) Mennonites. mittees who make up the General sion Board report. Mission Board had a part on the This,did not materialize and so the EMC started alone in January 1965 Four new missionaries had been agenda. with some five students. The second processed. Mrs. Betty Friesen, Miss Paraguay Report year 13 came. Brother Plett related Ellen Brell and Mr. and Mrs. John F. D. Reimer represented the Par­ of the pathetic state among the Sawatzky. The latter three gave aguay Committee with a report on Mennonites. They have two radio their testimonies. Miss Brell who their activities. There are now two programs with Elmer Hamm and comes from the Wymark EMC has 1 T main areas of work. One in the J-JNeufeld as speakers. A young applied to go to India under TEAM. Chaco and the other in East Para­ couple had responded and was She will serve her probation in the guay. In East Paraguay there is an saved. Nick Friesen, chairman of Portage church. Mrs. Sawatzky organized EMC church headed by the Mexico Committee reported that chose Prov. 3:6 for her verse. R is the Frank Kroekers. In the Chaco there were also Spanish programs wonderful that the Lord directs our the B.D. Reimers are active as well on the air. He also mentioned Nic- paths as we acknowledge Him. os some South American workers. uaragua where the Alfred Friesens John Sawatzky related how he had

Main speaker, Hev. John Peters

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Milton Fast, chairman General Mission Board, and Stan Houghton, missionary on furlough from Ecuador. THE MESSENGER

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been saved at age 13. They have

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seen a year of foreign service al­ ready teaching missionary children in Morocco. They are serving their probation at Bredenbury Sask. Among missionary re-appoint­ ments are the Harvey Barkmans who will likely return to Congo in 1967. On the program also with a brief account of their doings was the Christian Service Committee. They reported of three workers who had recently left in this program for for­ eign service. The audience was challenged with the need. A Christ­ ian service worker, Don Warkeptin, gave a testimony of what Christian Service had meant to him. Present also were the Stan Hough­ tons from Ecuador. Mrs. Houghton gave her impressions of the field and also reported on her work. Stan spoke enthusiastically of pre-tuned radio receivers. They have sold 175 of these at a subsidized price. The cost of one set is $15.00 and they sell them for $7.50. Each set may hove from five to ten people listen­ ing to it. He related how a couple had been saved through this radio minstry. Testimonies were also heard from Mrs. John Peters and Mr. and Mrs. Henry Koop. Mrs. Peters, who gave her testimony in German, related how the Lord had seen them through joys and sufferings. Few

churches in Germany still really stand on the word of God, accord­ ing to her observation. The Henry Koops, formerly Flin Flon, plan to go to language school at Edinburgh, Texas in January.

The financial report given by sec­ retary P. L. Friesen showed that missionary giving was up from last year. Numbers in song were rendered by groups from the various churches.

On Sunday afternoon the local ladies served a delicious lunch, where many ate. Mention must also be made of the prayer meeting on Sunday be­ tween the afternoon and evening sessions. We were especially re­ minded to pray for our missionaries. As stated in another place, this type of a missionary conference is to be replaced next year by smaller regional conferences. It is hoped that in this way the constituency will be more adequately covered.

MINISTERIAL NOTES (October 7, Ministerial^ opening: Rev. P.J.B. Reimer read II Cor. 4, made some remarks and prayed.

The forenoon was spent with reports of various church events and announcements. Report­ ing on their session also was the Board of Missions. Deeper Life meet­ ings were announced for Ridge­ wood, Rosenort and Prairie Rose with Ben Hoeppner of the Stein­ bach Bible Institute as speaker. At Arborg services have been started with Andrew Plett of Morweena in charge. reports:

M

devotional: Rev. Edwin Wright from Riverton Gospel Chapel had the afternoon devotional. His text was taken from IlCor. 9. He exhort­ ed to thanksgiving.

One of the singing groups, a quar­ tet! from the Winnipeg church. L.to H.; Arnold Heimer, Irwin Kroeker, Gordon Schellenberg and Abe Klas­ sen.

October 28, 1966

STEINBACH BIBLE INSTITUTE: Chair­ man of the Board, Kornelsen reports that enrollment is higher than in '65. There ore 139 students registered. They will need $8,000.00 operating expenses to Dec. 31.

BOARD OF EDUCATION AND PUBLICA­ TION: They had three items, 1) A proposed church membership hand­ book. 2) Year book announcement. 3) Student work announcement. EDEN MENTAL HEALTH CENTRE; The building is to be ready by Dec. 15. Furnishing will take another 30 days or so. There is still an urgent need for trained personell. CHRISTIAN SERVICE COMMITTEE: This committee reports that three work­ ers have been sent out. Two to Ger­ many and one to Paraguay. AMALGAMATION OF ANNUAL AND MIS­ SIONARY CONFERENCES: Recommend­ ed that the Annual conference re­ main as it is, with the exception that more time be given to individual committees and more time to confer­ ence council needs. The Missionary Conference will come in for a change. The traditional Missionary Conference will be replaced by Re­ gional Conventions. These will be held in the local churches. This will make for much greater participation and will provide better coverage. Mcc (Manitoba) A discussion was held regarding the merits in partici­ pating in the present Peace and So­ cial Concerns committee. It was felt that we could not go along with the trend of some present day "peace" movements. A letter is to be written. RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION IN SCHOOLS: Arnold Fast reports of the open door for this ministry. He is participat­ ing in the Religious instruction pro­ gram at the Steinbach Collegiate. LEADERSHIP PRINCIPLES Henry Kornelsen feels we should continue to work on guidelines for church lead­ ers. MENNONiTE WORLD CONFERENCE: In­ formation was given regarding trav­ el to the Mermonite World Confer­ ence in Amsterdam next July.

SLOW ME DOWN LORD! "Slow me down Lord, I am going too fast 1 can't see my brother when he's going past I miss a lot of good things day by day; 1 don't know a blessing when it comes my way . . . Slow me down, Lord, so I can talk With some of your angels. Slow me down to a walk!" William J. McCormack Philidelphia, Pa. 9

CHILDREN’S STORY

WHO CARES

FOR A

cypsy? By Bernice Callaway Many years ago an old gypsy wagon lumbered into the sleepy town of Baldock, England, and pull­ ed up outside a doctor's house. Quickly the driver jumped to the ground and hurried to the door, deep lines of worry showing in his tired face. The doctor, seeing the man to be a gypsy, followed him outside in silent contempt. Without entering the home-on-wheels, the physician leaned over the doorstep and ex­ amined a frail little girl inside. "This child has smallpox!" he de­ clared sharply. "You must leave town immediately!" Sadly the gypsy father climbed onto the wagon and drove down the lane, his heart seemingly heav­ ier with each turn of the squeaky old wheels. It was hard sometimes to be a gypsy, he reflected. Al­ though he was proud of his race and loved the outdoor, carefree life, his family and friends were never particularly welcome in town. Of­ ten they were unjustly accused of petty crimes and reported to be child-stealers. Nov/ they were com­ plete outcasts! At the bend in the road he stop­ ped and pitched a tent for the mother and the rest of the children. Then he drove farther down the lane and set up his little "hospital" in the old trailer. Here, as best he could, he nursed Emily, and then her brother, Ezekiel. For a whole month he struggled to care for the two seriously ill children, without once taking off his clothes.

10

In the tent down the lane, the gypsy mother did her utmost to keep the dread disease from attacking her other children. It was bitterly cold, and often she would trudge to town to buy food, little Rodney and Tilly by her side. Then she would return and cook a meal over the open fireoutside. Part of it she would take halfway down the lane for the sick ones and their father. The rest of the meagre meal she would feed to her little charges, then wrap them in their ragged blankets for the night. No one ever ventured near that despised gypsy camp — not even a minister, or a Christian worker, or a kind neighbour. It seemed that no one cared. It was not long before the little mother, too, fell ill. Her family soon realized that she was very, very sick, and held out little hope for her recovery. As the children huddled nearby, they heard their father quietly talL ing to their mother. "Have you been praying. Moth­ er?" "Yes, I am trying, but it seems that I cannot. Something says there is no mercy for such as I." As he sat there in distress, the poor man remembered having heard the gospel when he had been in prison as a lad. A faithful chaplain had preached about the Good Shep­ herd, who gafve His life for the sheep. Although the gypsy did not himself understand it all, he told his dying wife all he could recall of it. "Mother," he said, "God will for-

give all those sins you are remem­ bering because Christ the Saviour died for sinners. Chaplain said He will not turn anyone away — not even a poor gypsy." There was no Bible in that shab­ by, dark, old wagon-trailer, and if there had been, the gypsies could not have read it. But One who cares for all men everywhere, even gypsies, was there that night, and heard the dying mother's prayer. With outstretched arms, the blessed Saviour welcomed her into His fold. Soon the children heard her sing­ ing quietly: "I have a Father in the promised land. My God calls me, I must go To meet Him in the promised land." She had long since forgotten those lines which she had heard as a little girl. Now she sang them over and over, and, turning to her husband, said, "I am not afraid to die now." Monday morning dawned on the gypsy tent and wagon standing in the lane. Outside on the ground siTiouldered the fire, with a blacken­ ed kettle hanging over it. Some tattered washing fluttered on the fence, and the faithful old horse nibbled the grass by the roadside. Little Rodney stood gazing from the doorway, then turned to the dear wan face on the pillow. His mother's lips were moving in silent prayer. Was she praying for him? Sadly he wandered out into the lane, tightly clasping his sister Tilly's little hand. With no one to talk to, the two little things clung to one another, sharing their sor­ row. Suddenly the boy heard his older sister calling him. He turned around and ran back to the tent, where Emily stood in the doorway, still weak and pale from her illness. "Rodney," she cried, her big dark eyes fille<i witjh tears, "Mother's dead!" The ragged, forlorn little fellow fell to the ground, sobbing, "I'll never be like other boys, now. Oh, Mother, Mother!" Since they were only gypsies, the authorities forbade the funeral be­ ing held by daylight. When dark­ ness finally fell on that long spring evening, an old farmer's cart was sent to bear the body of the dearly THE MESSENGER

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loved gypsy mother to her last rest­ ing place. When Rodney's father returned at midnight, he threw himself on his face and asked God to help him be a good father to his motherless children. That dying gypsy mother, des­ perately searching for peace and forgiveness, began a search for God which ended happily in the salvation of the entire family. Rodney, the gypsy waif who felt he never would be like other boys, never really was! Although he was denied almost every privilege of a

normal child, God had heard his mother's prayers for him. In his manhood he was presented to Queen Victoria and to two presidents of the United States. By the grace of God he was a blessing to many thousands of people during his long life. For Rodney was none other than the famous evangelist of this early century, Gypsy Smith.

Jesus said, "Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out"— no, not even a gypsy. —Young Pilot

have any special talents, has a great burden for souls, and puts his whole heart into the task of soul winning.

FROM

HOUSE

TO YO

HOUSE

"SHINE AS LIGHTS"

By Mrs. V. M. Wright

We were sitting in our dining room when the light started to go dim. "The light is going out!" some­ one said. Then suddenly it was gone. The evidence that there had been light was still with us, in every room. The bulbs were there, but the light itself had gone. Now where were the candles? We had to have the candles, for we didn't know when the light would return. These lesser lights must take the place of the greater. When our Lord left us, though there was evidence everywhere of His being on earth, did He not leave lesser lights to take His place? He said "Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel . . ." Mark 16:15. Ah, yes, here is a candle. It has no comeliness so that one might remark on its beauty, no special way of letting its light shine, but it is sturdy, and its light is bright as it shines into the darkness cround it. This candle is like the Christian who, though he may not

October 28, 1966

And here is one that is strong of stature, but for some reason needs a great deal of encourage­ ment of older Christians, and to be reminded of the promise of Phillipians 4:13.

This candle is broken; it does not stand too straight. Yet it shines forth with a steady light, not wavering. This reminds me of a Christian who may not be too strong physically, but whose witness goes forth with a purpose; unwavering; fruit bear­ ing. Psalm 27:14. Here is one that shall be taken to the basement to do its work. Here it is not seen by many as its light shines forth, but it carries on its work as long as it is needed; quietly, humbly, its work unmen­ tioned and unnoticed by the crowd. The Christian whose ministry is praying for others, visiting, and sending out tracts—a work done quietly, unnoticed by the crowd, un­ mentioned, could be likened unto this candle.

How long must these candles shine forth in the darkened places?; Until the return of the greater light. Thus we as witnesses, must let our lights shine into the darkened plac­ es of this sinful world until the re­ turn of that Greater Light, the Lord Jesus Christ. John 14:1-6. We do not all have the same ministry, but God's word tells us, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven!"

Cont'd. from page 3. RENEWAL day, this was not so in the early church. Our messages have lost their im­ pact. In Acts 17:6 it is said of Paul and Silas "They turned the world upside down." Today the world turns the church upside down. The original would read, they "disturb­ ed" and caused them "to sigh deep­ ly." This was the world's testimony of Paul's message. It disturbed them! Their message caused them to sigh deeply! People were being loved and convicted of sin and brought to the Saviour. Is this true of us today? Oh that it were. This will only happen as we learn the: how of greater spiritual vigour.. THE HOW OF GREATER SPIRIT­ UAL VIGOUR Recently I had the opportunity of speaking with a missionary on furlough from India. We discussed revival and with radiance in his face he said, brother I have had the privilege of experiencing a revival in a church in Bombay, India where I was interim pastor for some time. "Give me the recipe," I said. First of all he said a lot of church activity can stand in the way. We can be sincerely busy and with good intentions like Martha and yet forfeit That good part that Mary chose as she sat at Jesus feet. Lk. 10:42. Secondly it must begin with a hunger for revival on our part. We must desire it to the extent that we are willing to have it at any cost. Otherwise it will never come. This hunger only God can give as we take time for prayer. Praye,r is not only a constant begging for God to supply and bless, but adoration and praise, basking in the sunshine of His presence, expressing our love to Him who is the altogether lovely one-Iesus Christ. Our vision of Him and what he has done for us is often so dim. He who should be the preeminent one in our lives, is often so obscure because we "fol­ low afar off." Only as we daily enter into His wonderful presence, adore Him and feed our souls from His abundance, talk things through with Him and weep at His feet will we experience RENEWAL. I am hungry for revival, are you? 11

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ih -o

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Have Ywi uod tkue HERALD PRESS BOOKS

”

THESE ARE MY PEOPLE by Harold S. Bender A study of the nature of the church and its discipleship according to the -New Testament. The author delines who the people of God are, how thev came to be, and how they respond to God. Chapter titles are: The People of God, The Body of Christ: The Holy Community; Believers, Disciples, and .Saints; and The Lord’s Ministers. There are eight pages of footnotes and a four-page list of recent writings on the nature of the church at the back of the lx>ok. This is another of the Cotirad Grebel I.ectttre Series. 1962. 136 pages. Cloth. $3.85

THESE ARE MY PEOPLE

ANNOUNCEMENT

THE WAY OF THE CROSS IN HUMAN RELATIONS

Cross II •

♦

I H

THE

Melvin Koop The Board of Education and Pub­ lication wishes to announce that Rev. Melvin Koop will replace Har­ vey Plett in Student Work. This ap­ plies to those in our Conference who are pursuing their studies in Institutes of higher learning as: University, Nurses Training, etc. Brother Koop would appreciate hearing from you who are in this category. Pastors are also encour­ aged to contact Mr. Koop regard­ ing students from their area who are studying in the city. Address; Melvin Koop 271 Hamilton Winnipeg 22, Man. Tel. 837-9490 Rev. Koop is the pastor of our St. Charles church. The Koops will be occupying a suite in the church basement as soon as it is ready. The above address is the church add­ ress.

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NEW TESTAMENT the CHRISTIAN

,1' m STATE

•JESUS AM>

HVMAN ’ CONFLBTI'

by Guy F. Hershberger Brings the teachings of Jesus filirist to bear on the com­ plexities of modern living and human relations problems. Everv man's responsibilitv is examined in the light of God’s eternal purpose. Business, labor, rare relations, the rcsponsibilitv of the state, the role of the community, family, and persotis are brought itnder the searchlight of Christian dis(ipleship. 1958. 412 pages. Cloth. -$6.05

THE NEW TESTAMENT, THE CHRISTIAN AND THE STATE by Archie Penner .A Biblical study of the relationships of the Christian to God and to the state. Mr. Penner gives the history of the church’s relation to the state. He examines the teachings and example of Jesus. He interprets the Sermon on the Mount in regard to retaliation and war. The remainder of the book considers the teachings of Paul, Peter, and John on the question of state and church relationships. —$2.75

JESUS AND HUMAN CONFLICT

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by H. A. Fast .An easily read but penetrating study of Scriptures dealing with the Christian's response to political, religious, domestic, and personal aggression. Here you will see what the every­ day character and attittide should be for the person in whom the rule of God has become a living, working reality. A valuable, fresh, sotirce material for study groups. 1959. 215 pages. Cloth. $4 jq

EMC BOARD OF EDUCATION AND PUBLICATION BOX 1268 STEINBACH, MANITOBA

The above books may be ordered from Evangel Book Shop, Steinbach, Man.

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