ISS
EVANGELICAL
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MENNONITE I
CONFERENCE
r I
If
IN THIS ISSUE:
Mexico Youth Conference
No. 19 , 1968
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ocJitorial ONLY GETTING ALONG It came as a surprise to me when in a certain meeting a brother remarked, "I think there are more homes than we think in our Conference where people only get along." In fact it caught me unawares. I v.'ould never have imagined it. And although the statement was made, some time ago somehow I can not get rid of it. I cannot imagine a Christian home so devoid of mutual respect and love that it could be said that in that home "they only get along". The home, above all other human institutions, needs to ba a place of love, respect, shelter, example, sharing and co-operation. Anything less than this may well result in bitter regrets at some time for those who have lived in that home. For it is in the home where our children begin the school- of life. ■ Character, fortitude, courage and integrity are all taught in the impressionable years of childhood. But the opposite is just as true. Bitterness, envy, hatred and strife if present in the home will also be transmit ted to our unwary offspring. What is suggested by, "only getting along"? It goes without saying, "A difference of opinion." Marriage is not a fifty-fifty relationship. It is an all-out partner ship where we give and take 100%. Nothing else will work. Not willing to do this and bringing in our individual peculiarities then spells the situerton first referred to. I cannot imagine a worse situation,, and a more tragic situation than a loveless marriage partnership. And for Christians there is no reason why it should be. Christ Himself is the great Unifier of our individual spirits to make two one. Yet just as all living things have their enemies, the home too has a thousand dangers that beset it. Someone has said that our homes are endangered by, "dirt, debt and the devil." I believe this well sums it up. It well behooves us to Qssidiously guard against all three. And by the spirit of God they con be overcome, laid low, slain. A certain Ligh-school student was being driven home one afternoon after a meeting. The road skirted a beautiful lake, and, presently, at her in
struction, the driver stopped before a place that was little more than a shack. It was her home. She saw the look of surprise on the driver's face and quickly said, "It isn't much to look at, but it is a wonc.erful place to see from." Let me ask you the question, "Is your home a wonderful place to see from?" Does the perspective from your home afford you the initiative, the courage, the fortitude that is so sorely needed to face this battle of life? Or is the view from your home marred by attitudes and things that only make for defeat and failure? "Only getting along" is a sad commentary on anv Christian home. God has provided all the ingredients that go for making our homes victorious. But for the answer we must go to our knees, to the word and to His Spirit. —D.S.
Letters to the Editor: Dear Rev. Schellenberg, It was a pleasure to read the well-written, re searched article Pacifism and Non-Resistance QII ) in the July 5th Messenger. Mr. Friesen, to my way ol thinking attempts to cover all aspects of non-resist ance in a traditional, honest way but in so doing misses the whole point. The point which makes the doctrine as propounded in many Mennonite circles, deficient in terms of viability and further is the pos sible cause for the writer's frustrated page 6 plea, "Whav is Our Problem?" The Bible does not speak of pacifism or non-resistance but speaks of love, the basis (I hope) of the theological concepts of pacifism and non-resistance. This then is the issue the article fails to emphasize as does most of the Mennonite teaching on pacifism— Pacifism and non-resistance are but by-products of Christian love—similar to straw being the by-product of wheat—both are useful and real but to varying de grees. The writer contends that non-resistants are those who hove . in their hearts the principle of love and goodwill toward men", have a "belief in the overruling providence of God to care for those who are compelled to submit to unjust and unreasonable (Contd. on page 9)
The Messenger is lhe publication of the Evangelical Mennonile Conference. Its purpose is to inform, instruct and inspire. Inform os If what is going on in the Conference. Instruct in Godliness and victorious living. Inspire to earnestly contend for the faith. A'.', cr rrespondence should be addressed to the Editor, D. K. Schellenberg. Change of address and new subscriptions should be addressee to THE MESSENGER Box 1268, Steinbach, Man. 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. Views expressed in Letters Io lhe Editor, are not necessarily those of the editor nor of the paper. Unpublished letters are not returned except by request.
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THE MESSENGER
CHUMH DISCIPLINE (IIJ By John P. Loewen
II. The Command and Manner of Discipline. Jesus says, "Moreover if thy bro ther shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone, if he shall hear thee thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witness es every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them tell it unto the church; but if he neglect to hear the church let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. Matt. 18:15-17. With this it is understood that, if a member errs from the truth, every effort is to be made through pray er, admonition and warning to win him back, but if all is in vain the duty falls on the church to excom municate such a member.3 Menno Simons has the following to say: In short, all those who lead a shameful, carnal life, and those who are corrupted by heretical, unclean doctrine (Titus 3:10), and who will not be overcome by wine and oil of the Holy Spirit, but after they have been admon ished and sought in all love and reasonablness remain obdurate in their corrupted walk and opin ion. They should at last in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit, that is, by the binding Word of God, be reluctantly but unanimously separated Horn the church of Christ, and should thereupon in all divine obedience to the Scrip tures, be shunned until they re pent, 4 According to I Cor. 5:9-11, and Romans 16:17. the excommunicated The Author: Rev. Loewen is the leader of the Blumenorl E.M. Church as well as mod erator of the E.M. Cnoference.
member is to be shunned, this means, that we cannot have deal ings or fellowship with them, Paul soys, "And if any obey not our word by this epistle note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed." II Thess. 3:14. In I Cor. 5:10, it is understood that Paul is making a distinction be tween people of the world, and members of the church living in sin. Shunning of excommunicated members, according to this, is more than just not having communion with them.
The responsibility of administer ing discipline does not just fall on the clergy or ministerial, but on the brotherhood, since the church is one body. H. S. Bender points out well the mutual love, responsibility, and full participation of the brother hood. Brotherhood means mutual love and responsibility, full participa tion of all in the family of God, full sharing in the ordering of the life of the church, in exactly the sense as fellowship does. It means a love because of which all members minister to each other in all their needs, both tem poral and spiritual.5 Care must be taken when disci pline is administered, that it not be done in a Pharisaical or legalistic atttude, but in a spirit of meekness and love. We also cannot expect excommunication to serve its pur pose if procedures are not taken in the spirit of Christian love. In Gal. 6:1 we read, "Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself lest thou also be tempted. Further Paul says, "Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother. II Thess. 3:15. J. C. Wenger states in Complete Writ-
ings of Menno Simons as follows: When brethren or sisters fall into heresy, such as that of the corrupt sects—or into a life of sin, every effort is to be made through prayer, admonition, and warn ing, (to win them back. But if an is in vain, and no penitence comes, but the individuals give every evidence of no longer be ing in Christ, the painful and sad duty falls on the brotherhood to excommunicate and shun such apostates. This is not to be done in a proud, Pharisaical spirit, but with an earnest desire to win again the brother or sister who has fallen away. Church disci pline is to be redemptive, not punitive.6 Paul says, "Sufficient to such a man in this punishment, which was inflicted of many. So that contrari wise ye ought rather to forgive him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sor row. 11 Cor. 2:6-7. After genuine re pentance the excommunicated mem ber must be forgiven, and again received into the fellowship of the brotherhood. Jesus says, "I say un to you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance. Luke 15:7. III. The Purpose in Church Discipline The purpose in church discipline is threefold. The first and primary purpose is to restore the erring brother or sister, for Chist did not come to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved. John 3:17. If the brother hood is motivated by the spirit of Christ, they will also have the sal vation of the erring member in view. Paul says, "To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruc(Cont'd. on page 9)
September 13, 1968
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missions foul’ll
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by Mary Kroeker Approximately one hundred The program stressed the import young people assembled in the vil- ance of consulting Christ on all delage of Ouevedo for a united Youth cisions which face the young per Conference on June 29 and 30. An son. The first session was anair of excitement and expectancy nounced by good hearty singing pervaded the audience on the first such as only our Mexican brethren night. Very new Christians for the can produce. Several poems, musifirst time met their "brothers and cal selections, and testimonies fol sisters" from other villages,, while lowed and then Brother Edward Planning Committee: Back row, others renewed acquaintances and Friesen spoke on the importance Manuel Barragan, Jesus Manuel shared experiences before the ses- of deciding wisely in three very vital Vega and Alfredo Dominguez. sion began. It was a joy fo witness choices facing the young person — Front: Clotilda Rascon and Betra the really young and the young at 1) Choosing a Master 2) Choosing Vargas. heart together enjoying the fellow- a life of service 3) Choosing a ship. Although the audience con life's partner. Of central importance was the sisted mostly of youth, there were The Sunday morning service, Sunday afternoon session was the participants ranging in age from one although introduced by threatening panel discussion presented by the year to seventy-five years. clouds and claps of thunder, was young people of Picacho, Ouevedo The conference which is an an- enjoyed out of doors at the home and Buena Vista. The discussion nual event, was planned and con- of Brother and Sister Pedro Vega, dealt with the topic "A Well-Pre ducted entirely by the young peo- The highlight of this session was a pared Youth." pie. Five representatives, chosen panel discussion 'by the young The concluding session gave op at the March Bible Conference, people of Santa Tomas. The discus- portunity for voluntary items and were in charge of the program. Je- sion dealt with the problems of testimonies. Some of the testimonies SUS Manuel Vega, the chairman of Christian courtship, stressing es- reporting of wonderful experiences the conference represented Oueve- pecially the danger of being "un with the Lord, thrilled the hearts of do; Manuel Barragan represented equally yoked together with unbe- Christians. Other testimonies were Buena Vista; Alfredo Dominquez, lievers." urgent invitations to the many un Picacho; Berta Vargas, Santa ToThe last two sessions were held saved present, while still others, re mas; Clotilde Rascon, La Nortena, in the home of Concepcion Vargas porting of fearful temptations and A total of fifteen villages paticipat- Manos, where two rooms had been struggles, reminded Christians to ed in the conference. converted into a temporary chapel. pray more earnestly for each other.
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The panel members from the Santa Tomas congrega tion. (Outside session) 4
An indoor session.
THE MESSENGER
Institute in Edinburg, Texas.
Two of the "young al heart" enjoy ing a chat between sessions.
The conference was concluded by a message delivered by Brother Abe Plett who had just arrived on the field from Rio Grande Bible
Perhaps the highlight of the confererice came not during any of the four sessions, blessed as they were, but rather during the quiet hours of the night when a small group ( some saved and others not) decided to spend several hours in prayer. It was at two o'clock at night when the first break-through came. One of the group, a young lady, gave her heart to the Lord. It was at about three when the second response and a young man gave in to the Lord. What rejoicing there was in the audience the next morning! Truly, Christians experienced once more that "The Lord's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save, nei ther his ear heavy, that it cannot hear." Isaiah 59:1.
Teaching in My work at present is teaching at Muree Christian School. I have full charge of the Grade 4 and 5 classroom. Just now I have eleven students in Grade 5 and nineteen in Grade 4, with three more to coma for Grade 4. Most of them are from the mission which sponsor the school, but I do have three non missionary children.
The school building was at ona time a church. In ordar. to preserve the appearance,.'.^the ■ classrooms have been built' .in'side the existing walls. " "Phe . hostel has living space for about. 140 children. All the girls, live here, also the boys until the end of their Grade 8 year. The older boys live a mile away at Sandes Home, with their house-parents. During the summer, though, there are only about 20 children at the hostel. The others live with their parents in rented homes scattered over about ten miles of mountain. The school bus picks them up each day.
September 13, 1968
Pakistan
The school has‘quite a fair-sized staff. Four of us have the first six grades, and there are 7 teachers for the higher grades, plus the principal and his wife. They teach part-time. The office manager is a Pakistani Christian There are 7 house-parents for the hostel and Sandes Home. Would you like a glimpse into the Grade 4 and 5 room? We begin at 9 a.m., with our devotion time— hymns, choruses, Bible study, and prayer time. It is a real thrill to hear them pray. Then comes 15 minutes set aside for Bible mem orization. Some are learning as much as ten verses a week—per fectly! At 9:45 we begin the usual school subjects, with Penmanship
class. Recess is 10:15 to 10:30. When they come in, they have about 20 minutes to work on their spelling lesson, with the weekly test on Fridays. Before dinner, they usually do Mathematics and Eng lish. Dinner is from 12:'00 to 12:45. The first thing on the afternoon timetable is 15 minutes of "Story Corner" Each day I read to them from a story bock, and they would love to have me go on all after noon! Then they study Reading, Science and Social Studies. School gets out shortly after 3:00. About once a week we take time to do a little special work in English—per haps writing poems, or stories. Every Thursday, my students go to another room for their Arts and Crafts lesson,' while I take the Grade 2 and 3 children for Music. And every Friday at 9 a.m., the whole school gathers for joint cha pel. The summer semester runs from Juns 18 to August 30. The children will return on September 9 for tail semester, when all except staff children will be in boarding. Winter holiday begins the first week of December, and lasts for three months because of the snow up here. They come back to finish their grades in the March to ealy June semester. Now, just a bit' more personal news. My outfit arrived on A.ugust 7. It is good to have my things at last. The Lord vary wonderfully undertook at the Customs, and there was notning to pay. 'The in land freight charges were most reasonable too.
I expect to take a bit of holiday during the short break in Septem ber I will be going to TEAM'S hos pital near Abbottabad, where I stayed when I first arrived in May. Then during the winter holiday, 1 hope to get in a good deal of lang uage study — most likely at the hospital. Ellen Brell
WELCOME HOME We ore thankful to the Lord for the safe arrival home of Miss Margaret Neufeld and Miss Doreen Reimer from missionary service with Janz Team in Europe. They arrived on Sunday, September 1.
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Second
E.M.C. Orientation
School By the Editor August 27 was the opening of the E.M.C. Second (Orientation school for missionaries, ministers and deacons ot the EM Conference. All sessions were conducted in the Steinbach Bible Institute. It was a three day school. Principal speakers were Rev. Ben Eidse and Rev. Ed Plett who each had three lectures. Other speakers were Rev. John P. Loewen, Rev. Ben Eidse, Rev. Elmer Hamm, Rev. Abe Unger, Mrs. B. Eidse, Rev. Harvey Plett, Rev. Melvin Koop, Rev. Ben Hoepp ner and Rev. Milton Fast. One of the aims of the short course is to acquaint EMC workers both at home and abroad with the principals and practises of the Con ference. The other consisted of six challenging papers delivered by the two main speakers. Three ses sions on "Inductive Bible Study" by Ed Plett and three periods of "Principals of Mission Work" by Ben Eidse. There were also discussion per iods where questions and comments from the floor could be voiced.
Principals of Mission Work
This well worked out paper was delivered by Ben Eidse, missionary
on furlough from Congo. He dealt with the topic in three periods, one for each day of the school, subject matter was derived mainly from the book of Acts. He approached the subject in terms of 1) The Purpose or Goal of Missions 2) The Activi ties Engaged in Reaching That Goal 3) The Results tha* Actually Occur. 1. (Coals "The importance of having a spe cific goal or goals', said the speak er, "is all too frequently over looked." He continued, "There must be long range goals and short range goals and consequently long range planning and short range plan ning. He explained though that this does not mean following each step "slavishly". Rather it is to focus our resources on a goal, even though it requires constant re-evaluation. Illustrated out of the Book of Acts a long range goal would be to bear effective witness to the end of the earth. A short ^range goal was to bear witness in Jerusalem. In conclusion the speaker said, "It would be well for us to formu late, in our particular area of wit ness, long range and shorter range goals." He also included in his paper a brief questionaire that
MAIN SPEAKERS
1 Edvrin Plett 6
Ben Eidse
could prove very helpful in achiev ing goals. 2. Activities First of all, the speaker empha sized that in order to achieve the goals of Acts 1:8 the Disciples had to be endued with power. This was initially realized at Pentecost with subsequent fillings. "We too must be sure," he continued, "that we meet the conditions of the fulness of the Holy Spirit, or the abundant life, so that our mission activities are empowered and guided with the accompanying conviction and con version." Another important item of the matter of the Apostles witness was that maximum effort was concen trated on responsive groups (e.g. turning from the Jews to the Gen tiles). Implications of this study for us ore. 1) We should become ac quainted with the background of the group we are trying to reach. 2) We should devote our major efforts to groups that are responsive, yet not overlook the less open ones. He questioned whether we had made mistakes in seeking to es tablish churches in places that have no church growth potentiality. Mr. Eidse pointed out that an in digenous church has three basic characteristics. 1) It is selfgoverning 2) It is self-propagating 3) It is selfsupporting. 3. Results The final lecture was based on a series of five charts adapted from, "Using the Systems Appoach for Missions (MARC) This showed the step by step procedure in achieving goals. One of the charts from the speaker's own experience dealt with the "Plan of Effective Witness in Luwale Village" (Congo). The ensuing discussion periods brought our varied questions and responses. One centered on mis takes we could hove avoided in our pioneer mission work. Some of the comments were as follows; Mexico: "We equated our culture with theirs." Edmar Fast Paraguay: "Not being able to sense the need. We failed to stand back and look at the situation frqm farther off.". Canada: "We have sent our workers out unprepared."
THE MESSENGER
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On the third day after the last lecture the audience divided into four discussion groups and pooling their findings when they came together again. The groups were 1) Local large church 2) Local small church 3) Foreign 4) Canada field, Inductive Bible Study
should hove precedence. On the last day of the class was given a practical assignment of making a Summarization of Luke 11:1-13. The final step in Bible study is Application. We must apply the A. discussion period con truth reached. "Failing to do this," ducted by C. H. Plett, said the speaker, "we hove failed'." Winnipeg. Other Subjects Church Ordinances — Milton Fast Non-resistance — Ben Hoeppner Workers of the EMC — Ben Friesen Women in the Church — Elmer Hamm Rearing children — John P. Loewen Family Devotions — Abe Unger before using any helps." It is also Role of the Preacher's, Missionary's, of importance, he said, to be aware Deacons Wife — Mrs. Helen Eidse of the historical setting. Some scrip Role of the Deacon — Havey Plett ture is not applicable today. It was Devotional Life of the Preacher — written for certain classes and culMelvin Koop tures of the day. This needs to be Chairman for the sessions was watched. Abe Unger, Landmark. Accommo The lectures also brought out the dation for out of town guests was fact that revelation is progressive. provided in the SBl dorms. Meals That is that the New Testament were served in the dining room, sheds light on what was still mys cafeteria style. A baby-sitting ser tery in the Old Testament. Hence vice was provided for couples with on Principal and conduct the N.T. children.
The course given was a regular Bible school course which would normally be given in one semester. Thus it provided only a birds-eye view of the subject. Nevertheless it did give the basic elements of the course. The inductive method of Bible study begins with scripture and by following certain basic rules, the truths of the passage are drawn out. Among other things in studying a portion of scripture we need to Stait at the Kola Indian look at Terms and Structure. There Camp, cooks, teachers also in general six types of literary and helpers, forms. We need to see which form is used to get maximum benefit from the verses. These forms the speaker listed as: a. Discourse Sermon on the Mount b. Prose Narrative - the Gospels $3,000 EARMARKED FOR BIAFRA as a whole c. Poetry - Psalms Winnipeg—For the first time in modern history the population of an d. Logical literature - Paul's Epis entire nation faces extermination by famine and war. Millions of tles men, women, and children in Biafra are starving and plagued by e. Drama - Job disease. Unknown hundreds, possibly thousands, are dying every f. Parabolic - parables of Jesus day. g. Apocalyptic - Revelation The Mennonite Central Committee and the Mennonite Board of He said we should always deter Missions (Elkhart) together have allocated $25,000 to airlift 80 tons mine what Ititerary form is used of food to Biafran refugees. Distribution of the food will be supervised when we read. by the Refugee Relief Committee of the Churches in Biafra. Prayer and meditation with rais MCC (Canada) has promised to raise at least $3,000 for the special ing questions when reading, were Biafran emergency fund. Contributions should be made through given as steps to interpretation. regular MCC channels. The speaker cautioned against helps. "Exhaust your own abilities September 13, 1968
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youth section KoU E.M.C. Youtk Rdwflt oid CkiMw'i Camp
Accommodation — Tents were put up for added room. Abe Martens' big tent and two small tents from the Maryfield Tabernacle provided boys' dorms. Most of the food was donated. Workers — Camp cooks and chiefs: Mr. and Mrs. P. F Martens, Mr. and Mrs. P. P. Thiessen Cooks' helpers were different wo men and young girls from the Heron and Kola churches. Teachers and Counsellors (includ ing night lodgers in the tents with the boys and girls.) Rev. Jackson - Presbyterian church pastor - Virden Rev. Art Neufeld Mr. and Mrs. Peter K. Martens Mr. and Mrs. Frank Braun Mr. and Mrs. Leo Thiessen Mrs Wayne Plett Miss Bertha Janzen Miss Mary Janzen Mrs. Wally Plett Miss Kathy Thiessen Mrs. Walter Kruse (camp nurse) Camp Committee Mr. and Mrs. Elmer C. Siemens Mr. and Mrs Wayne Plett Mr. and Mrs. Peter F. Martens Mr. and Mrs John Remple Mr. and Mrs. Jake Reddekop
Since there were quite a few been a blessing. Being a Christian young people who did not find it is wonderful! But like all other possible to attend young people's Christians, I need your prayers. Judy Kliewer camps elsewhere, we thought it would be a good idea to have a Blessings at Youth Camp youth retreat locally. We chose the weekend just before the Indian The Youth Camp for the Kola Camp should begin. There were 34 young people was held on July 5, campers in all, though not as many 6, 7 at the Indian Bible Camp. 'This were present at all times. We start time of fellowship proved to be a ed Fidcry night with a wiener roast great blessing to me and I believe and closed Sunday afternoon. TTie also to most of the other campers. families were invited to come for The highlight of the camp to me, 'Faspa' which they brought them was on Saturday night. Rev. Elmer selves. Rev. Elmer Reimer from Reimer (director) had a message Winner, S.D. was our camp speak on "Perfection," the mark every er. The Young People's leader, Levi Christian should strive for. The Klassen, and our minister. Art Neu words spoken convicted souls and feld, and our missionries on fur I paused to ask myself, "Where am lough, the Peter K. Martens and I standing? Am I perfect?" Even their wives looked after the food though I very often fall short of and arrangements. The Peter Mar what I as a Christian should be, I tens supplied the Missions Hour. still have the assurance of salva Names — Campers were divided The Holy Spirit spoke to all through tion because he says in I John 1:9, into tribes: Navajo,.Mohawk, Black His Word these days. Dedications "If we confess our sins he is faithful foot, Cree, Iroquois, Chippewa. A and conversions took place, for and just to forgive us our sin and name for the camp, after five years, which we thank God. Here are a to cleanse us from all unrighteous was chosen by the campers. The few testimonies of those who attend ness." Therefore, if he removes all name 'Tribes Forest Bible Camp" ed. our sins from us we are perfect in was then laid out in stone on the the Lord's sight. This is the state in Pipestone Creek bank. Being a Christian is Wonderful which we can best be used to his Results (short and long-term) - Some runaways who returned by honor and glory. Sure I wanted to become a Christ 1 a.m. Murray Klassen ian — some day. But first I wanted - Some homesick taken home after some "fun". trudging a ways toward home. INDIAN CHILDREN CAMP When the question about going - Some stone bruises fixed by camp to our Youth Camp arose, I finally 'The camp stared on July 8. It was nurse. decided to go, out of curiosity. operated jointly by the Heron and - Some diligent Bible study by stu I'll never forget that second night, Kola churches. Rev. Elmer Reimer dents July 6, at the fireside. I wasn't pay of Winner, SD., was the speaker - Some convicted by the Holy Spirit. ing much attention to Rev. Elmer and camp director. This was his - Some decisions for the Lord. Reimer's "preaching", but at the end fourth year. - Hopes for a harvest from sown he gave an altar call. I felt that if Attendance — Ninety-four campers seed. I didn't go forward then, I might ne came from the Griswold Reserve Closing Program — It was held Sun ver get to know what being a Christ and some from the Pipestone Re day afternoon on July 14. The turn ian was like. serve. out was good. Some of the campers The next week I helped in~-the Ages — Thirty-two campers were . were present. kitchen for three days of the Indian in the 14-17 year age group. This Our Share in the Work — 'The camp Camp. I've also helped with DVBS big age spread gave the counsel- is growing More help is needed, for three weeks. Although this sum lors lots of work. This made it youth We can pray and give for the Frank mer. has been very busy it's also camp as well as children's camp. Brauns and the Indian church.
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THE MESSENGER
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spiritual welfare of each other. Caeser's" let alone giving unto God T^us it is understood that discipline what is God's. The writer suggests that the nontion of the flesh, that the spirit may must be maintained, in order to resistant Christian," while he be maintain the purity of the church, be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. 1 Cor. 5:5. With this it is to provide spiritual guidance and lieves it is altogether wrong to par understood, it is the salvation of the nurture for its members, and to suc ticipate in military service, does not cessfully follow the great commis dispute the state's right to declare fallen member he is seeking. sion of our Lord (The end) war." As I have already suggested It is evident however, that salva the Christian who believes in the tion and remission of sin is not to be '3 J. C. Wenger, Complefe Writings ol Menno fundamental doctrine of love can sought in excommunication, but not accept this statement for him Simons, p. 408. solely in the righteousness, death self. In addition to not accepting and blood of Jesus Christ. 'The pur 4 Menno Simons, Complete Writings ol Menno arms we as Christians must attempt, Simons, p. 483. pose in administering discipline having ... "a common citizen's therefore is; to bring the sinner to 5H. S. Bender, These Are My People, p. 51. loyalty to government", to persuade the realization of his dangerous government to discontinue unjust condition, and to move him to re 6 J. C. Wenger, Complete Writings ol Menno wars, policies which are discrimina Simons, p. 408. pentance and recommitment to tory and attitudes which are detri Christ. mental to the common good. One need only look at the U.S. Quakers Another purpose in disciplining Letters Contd. and their activities re: the Vietnam is, to give a warning signal, and thus avoid sin from spreading in coersive powers". Note that the two war to illustrate the above princi The church. The Apostle writes, statements contradict each other. ple. In view of our obligation to in '■'Looking diligently lest any man Love is not a mystical, pervasive fluence government policy, it fol fail of the grace of God, lest any warmth which mysteriously quiets lows that as Christians, we must root of bitterness springing up trou the enemy (as suggested by East vote. This is certainly so if we re ble you, and thereby many be de ern philosophy) but is rather the cognize the fact (as the writer filed." Heb. 12:15 We also read in glass of water in His name, the does) that "the government is or I Tim. 5:20, "As for those who per widow's mite, the Good Samaritan, dained to serve as a minister of sist in sin, rebuke them in the pre the "go ye", etc. The doctrine of God . . ." It is disappointing to note that sence of all, so that the rest may challenging doctrine demanding stand in fear." When the open sin love and pacifism is a positive the writer comes so close to sug ner is disciplined, the rest will take action and influence to the good. gesting a positive doctrine of paci warning and give heed, lest they (Possibly because we have not fism in sec. C of his article but also fall into the snare of the devil. made it this in the past such an unfortunately quickly skips over the alarming percentage of "good" admonition "to love our enemies" Lastly, church discipline is to Mennonite boys fought during W. without explainnig how this is done. cleanse the church. Since the W. II) This is why I must disagree Instead he goes on to remind us church is to be the image of the with the writer when he suggests that "vengeance is mine, I will re body of Christ, it is to be kept pure that the "non-resistant Christian has pay saith the Lord." However, to and holy, so that its witness will no interest in thwarting the govern love the enemy for this reason is no tbe hampered. Paul says, "Know ment in any of its activities, but has hardly acceptable to the thinking ye not that ye are the temple of a common citizens' loyalty to gov Christian. It is obvious that we are God, and that the Spirit of God, not to avenge evil but it is not so dwelleth in you?" And in I Peter ernment". One can retain a pure obvious that leaving the enemy is and logical doctrine of pacifism and 2:9 we read, "But ye are a chosen a natural compelling spiritual force generation, a royal priethood, an still attempt to influence govern which requires the turning of the holy nation, a peculiar people; that ments to discontinue racial preju other cheek and the forgiving of ye should shew forth the praises dices, hunger, unjust wars, lack of seventy times seven times. of him who hath called you out of equal opportunity or freedom, etc. Considering the author's final darkness into his marvellous light." After all we have used our influ section on "Social Aspects", I chal ence in business and in the form Conclusion of briefs and delegations to allow lenge him to enumerate the by us to have separate schools. Our products of "social good" as a re In view of all this, namely, that Christ is the head of the church, present, apparent belief in the sep sult of our quasi-pacifism. I contend the universal body, the local church aration of church, state and Christ that we ought simply to start letting being the image of His body, to ian and thus our not accepting our Christ live through us and see love whom He has given precepts in His complete citizen's obligations while in action. Yours sincerely, Word, as to its function and opera reaping the national benefits is un Peter Dueck tion. Be it concluded that the local reasonable from a rational point of Suite No. 303 congregation is responsible to Christ view and smells of zombi-type 461 Griffith Pl. and His word. The members within Christianity. Certainlv we are not New West, B.C. this body ore responsible for the even "giving unto Caeser what is Church Discipline Contd.
September 13, 1968
9
MENNVILLE
BURNS LAKE
Mr. and Mrs. Delmer Kornelsen and fam ily enjoyed a nine day holiday at Banff and the Okanagan Valley. They came home July 25th.
Daily Vacation Bible School was held from August 12-23, with the program on Sunday evening. All classes were held in the evening, including pre-schoolers, and although the children as well as the teach ers got very tired, the attendance remained at a record high. Total enrollment was 130. With an average attendance of around 100. We praise the Lord for answered prayer in being able to reach so many from non church attending homes. 55 were from our home church Sunday school (also many from non-Christian homes), 25 from various other Sunday Schools and 55 from no church background at all. Our young people can vassed the vilage the Sunday prior to opening day. We believe this was good for both, our Young People's Group and the prospective students. May the Lord richly bless the -seed sown. One Ititle girl made a profession of salvation,'and several children were convicted. We greatly appreciate the many visitors we have had this summer. Among them were the Pete Martens from the Paraguay field. Miss Chris Schuman from Village Mis sion and Miss Barbara Bingham from Child Evangelism. On Sunday morning July 28th the Edmar Fasts, the Cornie Pletts and their parents Mr. and Mrs. Jake Plett dropped in some what unexpectedly- With Cornie in the pul pit and Bernie renderinij a solo it seemed like "old times". It was a full day with Mr. and Mrs. Fast bringing a report of their work in the evening^
Congratulations to the newly weds, Rosa lind Kroeker and Irwin Dueck, and Rosa Penner and Ben Brandt, The Sunday School enjoyed an outdoor program and fellowship lunch July 28th. This was the first venture of the kind and it was met with good response. We were happy to have Pete and Betty Friesen with us at the occasion. They have singe left for B.H. to visit Betty's parents. They plan to attend the language school in Edinburg this winter. May God bless you. Many children have again been under the sound of the gospel this summer at D.VB.S. We had 37 teachers with assistants instructing 275 children at 6 different places. One decision was recorded. Praise God! One soul is worth more than all. Hie .world! Many of these children face’; g’feat' diffi culties in their ungodly surroundings.’. Do pray for these. The teachers teaching in Gimli and Win nipeg Beach boarded in Gimli. They enjoyed devotions, fellowship suppers and sleeping on floors as well as teaching. In the eve nings special services were conducted at the chapel where these young people could share their faith and talent. One special feature of these evenings was the showing of slides of the Holy Land by Rev. Abe Unger. Abe Friesen, Henry Loewen, Leona Reimer and Grace Thiessen assisted with D.V.B.S. at Hudson Bay. The interlake churches conducted one week of camp at Fisher Bay. This was a new venture and it was met with much enthusiasm. The question now posed is, "Will we be able to construct a camp of our own?" We are hoping the answer will be, "Yes, the Lord willing." Rev. Harry Friesen was in charge of the work. Mrs. Mildred Harms spent a few days in the hospital. She got a piece of pipe into her leg while mowing the lawn. We wish you a speedy recovery. Plans are made to observe the Holy Com munion service Sept. 1st. May we be pre pared to take part in this- holy observance. May the bond of love be strengthened as a result.
10
A two week visit by Mr. J. J. Martens from Winkler, Man. was particularly en joyed by the family. Mr. Martens is one of the founders and an "old-timer" of the church.
MORRIS CHAPEL
After meeting old friends at various points this summer it was encouraging to note how many are relying on our church paper for more news from home. Its a privilege to be able to do something so worthwhile, even if its only a small way. When we do it for the Lord, He will bless. A greeting to all our readers!
We have had some changes in our church family. New members received are the Ben Thiessens, Joan Eidse, and the Frank Klas-
sens. Welcome! Moving to other areas oie the Jake Klassens who are farming at Souris and the Bernie Klassens. The B. Klassens will be in Winnipeg for further studies. Also, the Elmer Warkentines are in Winnipeg where Elmer is studying and Elvira is teach ing. An informal farewell was held outdoors at the H. Siemens farm on Sept. 2. A shock for all of us was the sudden pass ing away of Brother Abe L. Friesen. He will be sadly missed because he was active in Sunday School, church and committees. Our hearts go out in sincere sympathy to Mr. Friesen and Ronnie. Congratulations on their wedding to Don ald Heinrichs and Alvina Siemens, July 12, 1963; Lome Siemens and Joan Eidse, July 19, 1963; Elmer Warkentine and Elvira Dueck, Aug. 23, 1968. New arrivals! Melodie Dawn, born to Ed. and Laura Friesen, July 16, 1968. Sherilyn Gail bom to Ted and Georgianna Friesen, July 17, 1968. The Ladies Fellowship resumed lheir meetings on Sept. 3 under the leadership of a newly elected executive. President is Mrs. Henry Siemens and secretary is Mrs. Ernie Siemens. New projects were discussed and some old ones discontinued. We are looking forward to working together as we desire to serve one Saviour.
FLIN FLON
During July and August church attend ance has been quite low, due to several fam ilies being away. Those enjoying holidays were: Henry Koops, Maurice Meachems, Henry Rempels, Henry Reimers, and Lena Friessen. Miss Diana Plett spent 4 weeks visiting with her sister, Marie Penner, and family. The evening message on July 28 was brought by Rev. C. P. Dueck of Wawanesa. The famiy were here visiting with the Brauns and enjoyed our north country for a few days. The Beaver Lake Bible Camp was held from August 1st to 6th. There were 18 campers. All enjoyed the cooking of Shirley Koop and Marie Penner. Rev. Melvin Koop from Winnipeg was the main speaker. Mrs. Koop and boys accompanied him and we trust they enjoyed their stay even tho' the weather didn't co-operate every day. Daily Vacation Bible School opened Aug. 12 and the closing evening was Aug. 23
THE MESSENGER
with the church being more than full. There were 84 children enrolled, 8 teachers to serve. From Flin Flon: Mrs. Helen Lester, Doris Friesen, Edith Hanchar, Melvin Pen ner, From Blumenort: Priscilla Reimer, Alice Friesen, Anne Plett and Dennis Plett. We trust the hours put into the weeks will have fallen on fruitful ears.
Two new families attending N.F.C. are Mr. and Mrs. Peter Friesen, and Mr. and Mrs. Stan Klassen. We extend a hearty welcome to these folks.
Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Penner and Michael left Aug. 24 for 2 weeks holiday. The next day Pastor and Mrs. Braun, Myron and Myia left us for a 4 week vacation.
made us more aware of our responsibility to those who have never heard of God's great love. The beliefs of the natives make us realize their need of the true gospel of our Lord and Saviour. Our young people took part in the United Song Festival. We were all blessed by this joint effort. Our refreshment booth at the Austin Mu seum paid off well — thanks to those who worked faithfully for four days. It will help a great deal in foreign and home missions. Our young people were invited to take over the Worship service on Sunday, Aug. 16 in the Museum Chapel at Clear Lake. God granted grace to do this. The theme they chose was "Salvation", which they presented in song and word.
We sang praises to the Lord on June 16 when Margaret Anne Wiebe, Vernon Fehr, Abe Toews and Jim Toews were baptized by Rev. Frank Reimer. It is our prayer that they may be real witnesses for the Lord Jesus.
Some much needed work has been done on our church building. Our Sunday school picnic was held on a meadow at the D. Fehr farm on Aug, 31st. The day was cool with the threat of rain all afternoon so it wasn't too pleasent for the older folk, however the children enjoyed rcing etc. alsc the treats and lunch-.
Communion Service was held in the after noon and was well attended.
FISHER BRANCH
VALLEY STREAM
We rejoiced with Mr. and Toews on the birth of their Warren on June 17.
Mrs. Dick son James
We also praise the Lord for having been able to present the Word of God at Vaca tion Bible school to 30 children at Katrime and to 29 in the Sinclairville district. The Pete Martens missionaries to Para guay gave us a report on their work and i-
Valley Stream baptismal candi dates with Dick Fehr (righf) and Frank Reimer ClelF). September 13, 1968
As a small group in a populated area we continually sense the need for a true Christian light. May God work through us to meet this need. Since our last report many things have happened here. A report was due much earlier. Sorry I The Bartlet School property, which was occupied by the G. H. Kcrnelsens last win ter is now rented by the H. Olschewskis, a high school teacher for Fisher Branch. These neighbors respond to the invitation for fel lowship at their first opportunity. A Hutterite Colony has bought a tract of land some 10 miles north east of here, and are busily making headways there. Our last revival meetings were conducted by Rev. Dave Eidse of Pleasant Valley. Since that time many others ministered to us here. Rev. David Thiessen, Nick K. Friesen, J. D. Friesen, D. K. Schellenberg, Andrew Plett, H P. Friesen, Harry Friesen, etc. Communion service was held July 10. Baptism service for Elda K. Dueck and Marie F. Friesen, daughter P. F. Dueck and J. R. Friesen, was held Aug. 11. May the Lord grant them much spiritual gowth and daily guide them.
The marriage of Bro. Leonard F. Reimer and Mary S. Loewen took place in the Fisher Branch hall on Aug. 31, which was well filled with guests from far and near. Rev. H. P. Friesen officiated, and rendered
the message. The couple is to reside at Morweena. The Walter Reimers, after their studies in Steinbach have moved into Fisher Branch town, to accept duties as a teacher in the elementary school there. The Art Pletts motored to the eastern U.S.A, to attend conference meetings there. They have safely returned by now and report of many blessings from the more conservative side, of which no doubt, we could all learn from. We need it I In our church service Sept. 1 we were honored with 12 guest couples which was quite unusual. Three of them were from British Honduras. We are indeed thankful for the interest shown, and ask them to come again. On the same Sunday a Reimer gathering was held at the P. P. Friesen home, a fare well for the H. P. D. Reimers of B.H.
BLUMENORT The summer months have been busy ones. Many young people have taught VB..S or week of camp at Fisher Bay. This was a helped in camp work. Pat Janzen and Irene Bergmann spent two weeks at Steeprock Bay Bible Camp as counsellors. While here, they met Phil Doerksen and John Klassen, who spent six weeks at Steeprock as part of their summer service (V.S. as signment). Following their stay at Steep rock, Phil and John spent a few weeks in Mafeking conducting V.B-.S. Eight young people were baptized gnd accepted into membership on Sunday morn ing, July 21. They were Emily Fast, Lois Fast, Loreena Reimer, Marlene Plett, Wanda Fast, Allen Reimer, Johnny Barkman and Wes Plett. The church rejoices as more work ers are added.
Amid the rainy days, Saturday, August 17 presented some sunshine. The Young Peo ple were happy for this change, especially on this particular day. This was the day of the Youth Retreat. The day was spent at Grunthal Park where activities included devotional periods, recreation, and a bar beque supper. The messages^ on the theme "Inside and Out," as brought by C. Wilbert Loewen were enjoyed by all. These helped the listeners in learning to understand one self and to adjust to others.
A farewell service was held for Rev. and Mrs. Melvin Penner and family on Sun day night. August 18. The Penners are planning to leave this month for LaCrete, Alberta where Mr. Penner has taken a teaching position. May the Lord bless you as you work for Him there.
11
ness of farming. Besides farming he also had a heating and plumbing business in Morris. He had this business with his bro ther Dave for some time, but formed a Company after his brother sold his share. He felt the strain of the business and de sired to leave occasionally for trips and plans had been made to go to British Col umbia this fall.
ABE L. FRIESEN
1915 - 1968 "The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble: and he knoweth them that trust in him." Nahum 1:7. Our beloved husband and father Abram L. Friesen passed away on August 22, 1968 at 3:00 p.m in the Morris Hospital. His death was the result of a heart attack.
He was born on November 7, 1915 in the Rural Municipality of Morris. He was the third son born to Mrs. and the late Mr. David F. Friesen. He received his elemenatry education in the local school and took grades nine and ten by correspondence. Hf was serving as a Conscientious Ob jector when he realized his need of a Saviour. Upon the confession of his faith in Christ, he was baptized by Rev. Bishop Jacob B. Kroeker and was received into the fellowship of the E.M.C of Rosenort, on June 27, 1943. On June 9, 1962 he was married to me, Sara Dueck, with Rev. P. L. Friesen offi ciating. Our marriage lasted 6 years, 2 months, and 13 days. One son, Ronald, 5 years of age, and one still-bom babe were bom to us during this time.
For about 18 months during the years of the Second World War he served as a Conscientious Objector at Seebe, Alberta; Courtenay, Port Albemi and Kelsey Bay, Vancouver Island. It was quite hard when the announcement was made that these men would stay in camp for the "Duration" of the war, instead of the orignial 4 month assign ment.
For his occupation he pursued the busi-
12
About two years ago he suffered a se vere heart attack. He was hospitalized for 4 weeks in the Morris hospital. He recovered so that he could again resume his business engagements, but his health was not com pletely restored. On August 22, of this month he went to work as usual. At about 9 a.m. he phoned home and asked for his pills. The car was at the office and the workmen had gone Io the jobs. It was only when one of the men returned to the shop for supplies that Abe sent him for me and the pills. Upon arrival it was realized that his sickness was much like his previous attack. Abe managed to gel into the car and was taken to the Morris Hospital and admitted by wheel chair. The nurses gave him an injection and his pains were partially relieved. I left the hospital, but about 12 o'clock I was called to return to his bedside. Because of his busy schedule the doctor did not come to check him be fore 1 p.m. He ordered two injections and still pains did not cease completely. He weakened as the pains, bringing up, and retching continued. He passed away at about 3 p.m. to be with the Lord and Sav iour whom he cherished so much during these last hours. He felt that the end of his earthly life was near and we con fessed shortcomings and asked forgiveness of each other. Also he had this desire that any failures and mistakes towards the church be forgiven. He was glad that he had made his decision for the Lord before this time of sickness, which made it so m.uch easier now. He expressed the desire that if he should survive he wanted to take more time to testify of his faith in Christ. He reached the age of 52 years, 9 months, and 15 days. He leaves to mourn his early departure me, his wife, one son, Ronald, his mother, Mrs. David F. Friesen, in the Morris Eventide Home, four brothers, Peter, Frank, John and Dave, with their wives and families, one foster sister, Elsie, and her husband, Jac. R. Dueck, all from the
Morris area, his
mother-in-law,
Mrs.
P. K. Dueck, of Steinbch, 13 brothers-in-law, 12 sisters-in-law, and their families. We sorrow not as those who have no hope
but look forward to meet him in the presence of the Lord. "Earth hath no sorrows that heaven can not heal." The bereaved wife and Ronald
The funeral service for the late Abo L. Friesen was held on August 25, 2:30 p.m. in the Rosenort E.M.C. church where Rev. C. B. Loewen of the Morris Congregation chaired the service. He read Psalm 24 and made remarks on "Integrity" based on verse 4 Alvin Brandt led in congregational singing. The obituary was read by John R. Dueck. The Morris Choir rendered two numbers in song. Ernest and Arnold Dueck sang a duet. Rev. Frank P. Kroeker, the main speaker read Luke 7:1-10. Henry Rempel, deacon of the Morris Church, closed the service. Interment was in the local cemetery. Rev. C. P. Dueck read from Romans and i Thess. 4:13-18 and led in prayer. Lunch vras served in the lower auditorium of the church.
KOLA
Mrs. Don P. Shidler was here on August 8 The two ladies' sewing groups had a joint sewing circle. Mrs. Shidler talked Io them about Ephesians — the different walks of life. They are: The past walk (Eph. 2:2), Walk in good works (Eph. 2:10), Walk worthy of the vocation with which ye are called (Eph. 4:1), WaJk not as other Gen tiles (Eph. 4:17), Walk in love (Eph. 5:2). Walk as the children of light (Eph. 5:8), Walk circumspectly (Eph. 5:15). She told about the growth of the Gospel Missionary Union. She closed with Psalm 126:5 and 6.
Mrs. Susie Dueck and Mary Bute of Wowota conducted a good news club there the last school year. The meetings were held in the Lawrence Dueck home everv Thursday. This was the third year. Results— much interest shown, one girl was there every time, one girl made a decision to fol low Christ.
CORRECTION
We regret the error that crept in to the obituary of Isaac H. Cornelsen in our last issue. The fourth paragraph should have read as follows: (Fifth line) "Two young brothers died in infancy. His 20 year old brother Jacob was killed in action at Vimy Ridge, France."
THE MESSENGER