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STEINBACH BIBLE INSTITUTE The big red brick building on the No. 12 high way just north of town is once more alive with ac tivity. Yes, classes are in full swing both in the Bible and High school departments of the Steinbach Bible Institute with a total of just over 150 students in this its 34th year of operation. The Steinbach Bible Institute is an example of co-operation between four different churches, three Mennonite and one Free church. In a day when many look critically at our divisions this experi ment in joint administration is certainly something to be cherished. Faculty is also represented from most of these denominations. We also rejoice with the school that after a lag in Bible department enrollments, there are this year some 50 students in first year Bible. In all there is an almost 50'; increase in students in the Bible department.
This Institution in our midst is a great asset and we should value it as such. To see young people in this materialistic age take time to study the word of God and prepare themselves better to serve God is inspiring and challenging to all of us. There is however one question that bothers me. Is the school the part of the community that it should be? Is it recognized as a part of our town? It should be because it has been here long enough. Nevertheless the feeling persists that it is not in tegrated the way it should be. One of the reasons might be that activities are greatly decreased for about five months of the year, after the Bible dept, closes. Another I believe is that most of the students are from out of town and as such do not come from our homes. This latter is unfortunate and we hope that this tide will event ually turn for the better.
The school merits our prayer intercession, our financial support and our assistance and co-opera tion. May it continue to grow. — D. S.
DANGER OF COMPARING
“For we dare not make ourselves of the num ber, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves, and comparing thems^ves among themselves, are not wise.” 2 Cor. 10:12
There is a story going something tike this: A telephone operator got curious when a certain par-
ty phoned in for the time every day. Upon asking the man said, “I’m in charge of blowing the noon whistle, and need to know the correct time”. “Oh” said the operator, “I set my time by your whistle, every day”.
It does not take much imagination to see the confusion that could result from such a practise.
But are we not often doing exactly this in the realm of the spiritual: Measuring ourse’lves among ourselves? “I’m not as bad as he.,»” u“I would never do that”. And so on. When it comes to matters of rule and conduct, we dare not measure ourselves by anything less than, “The measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.” Eph. 4:13. —D. S.
Letters Steinbach, Man., Oct. 7, 1969
Dear Christians,
I feel very unworthy to write to the Messenger, but as I am laid up this summer, I have more time to write and read. At time.s I feel that the Lord has planned it this way that, we might get more in contact with our loving Saviour Jesus Christ. I came upon a tract this morning which I would like tc send along. It expresses my feelings. It is a prayer and I would like to pass it along to everybody. “Unto thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul. O my God I trust in thee. Show me thy ways. O Lord; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth and teach me for thou art the God of my Salvation; on Thee do I wait all the day. For Thy name's sake, O Lord, pardon mine iniquity; for it is great. Turn thee onto me, and have mercy upon me; for I am desolate and afflicted. The troubles of my heart are enlarged. Look upon mine affliction and my pain, forgive all my sins and bring thou me out of my distresses. O God, our Father, whose compas sion never faileth; whose love ever guardeth, whose presence ever abideth; Hear me, I humbly beseech thee, when I pray for all who are here seeking health, and grant that they may find both health of body and healing medicine of thy saving grace; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.”
Mr. John K. Wiebe, Box 215, Steinbach, Man.
Tlhe Messenger is the publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. Its purpose is to inform, instruct and inspire. In form as to what is going on in the Conference. Instruct in Godliness and rictorious living. Inspire to earnestly contend for the faith. All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor D. K. Schellenberg. Views expressed in Letters to the Editor are not necessarily those of the editor nor of the paper. Unpublished letters are not returned except by request. Subscription: Members pay through their church. Non-members $1.00 per year. THE MESSENGER. Published every other week by Evangelical Meimonite Conference, Board of Education and Publication, Box 1268, Steinbach, Manitoba. Second Class Mail, Registration Number 0591. Undeliverable copies, change of address and new subscriptions should be mailed to the above address.
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THE MESSENGER
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n Interpretation of Matthew 24 and 25 PART TWO (conclusion)
By Ben Eidse
Introduction — After the previous session some one asked me, “On whose theological toes were you stepping?” The implication was, on my own. I had intended to warn you about this in my introduction (but forgot), that you might hear me say things today that contradict other statements I’ve made in the past. But I am confident that where I have changed my position it is now more soundly ground ed on the Scriptures, after a more thorough study of the context. Well, I asked this brother, “What are you charging me of? What am I teaching dif ferently from the last time you heard me?” Two counts were against me: (1) the secret rapture, and (2) the last judgment. I could assure him that in the last ten years I had not believed in the secret rapture of the believer (emphasis on “secret”) nor had I preached on it. In regard to the judgment, I’ll discuss that later.
Turn with me to Matthew 24 please. You may accuse me of taking something out of its context if I use the same Scripture passage while speaking on a different theme. You be the judge.
How is commitment related to this chapter? We reserved verses 9-14 for this evening as well as verses 29-51 with a brief reference to chapter 25. What Jesus has here revealed should be an in centive to us to commit our lives to the Lord. First of all, what do we mean by commitment? It is not just a decision. You can make a decision
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The Author: Rev. Eidse is presently engaged in transla tion work in the Congo where he resides together with his family.
today and a contrary decision tomorrow. But a commitment means a state of decisiveness. You commit yourself to continue making a certain kind of decision. It Is throwing one’s lot in with another person or cause. In this case we are speaking of throwing our lot in with Jesus Christ, committing ourselves to Him as a Person, and daily renewing this committal. It invdlves throwing in our lot with the cause of Christ, the proclamation of the gospel. Now we know that the world is characterized by non-commitment to high and lofty ideals. But the Christian should be different. The Signs of the End (vs. 9-14) Having related “the beginning of the sufferings” Jesus proceeds to describe definite signs of “the end”. 'Though it should be added that these refer ences also partially apply to the destruction of Jerusalem. 'The two events are not precisely differ entiated — in keeping with the nature of prophetic utterances.
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1) Personal suffering of believers (vs. 9, 10). “Then will they ddliver you up to tribulation.” Wit ness the persecution related in the Book of Acts. Hear Paul’s own testimony. “Five times have I re ceived of the Jews forty lashes less one. Three times I have been beaten with rods; once I was stoned . . .” (2 Cor. 11:24-25). Prior to the end believers will have to suffer similarly. “And put you to death.” Stephen was the first recorded martyr. Then there was James, the brother of John, Paul, and Peter. In fact, ac cording to tradition, all the apostles except John died violently, as a result of their un swerving commitment to Christ. Countless other believers laid down their lives for their Master —and this will recur before “the end.” “And you will he hated of all nations for my name’s sake.” When Paul explains his case to the Jewish leaders in Rome they reply, “We have received no letters from Judea concerning you, and none of the brethren coming here has reported or spoken any evil of you.” But they
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The Bible does not differentiate between "the gospel of the kingdom" and "the
gospel of Jesus, Paul, and the other disciples preached."
continue, “with regard to this sect. (i.e. Christ ianity) we know that everywhere it is spoken against.” (Acts 28:21). People will turn against the totally committed because of the name of Christ. They identify themselves with all that He is and stands for. “And then many will fall away.” Compare the warnings in Hebrews. The tribulation will take its toll . . . Many will succumb. Their com mitment will not be genuine enough. Lenski comments: These are the wormy fruit which falls when the wind blows. Even when some earthly connection is to be broken, some sin ful and dangerous practice to be given up, how many fail to prove true! But let mon ey, goods, position, honor, liberty or blood be the price of faithfulness, how many will then deny the name.i Paul exhorts Timothy, “Take heed to yourself and to your teaching; hold to that, for by doing so you will save both yourself and your hearers,” (I Tim. 4:16). Constant re-evaluation and re-examin ation is essential. “And betray one another.” Not only will peo ple fall away, but they will also betray those they associated with before—like Judas. This is exactly what happened during the Roman persecutions. Tacitus, referring to the persecutions under Nero writes, “At first those who confe.ssed were seized, afterwards upon their information a great multi tude” (Annals 15, 4). This, again, was due to lack of commitment, and will be a sign of the approach ing of “the end”. “And hate one another.” This was the exact op posite of what Jesus had commanded. Note the pro gression defection, betrayal, hatred. 2) Arising of false prophets (v.ll). “And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray.” Hear the parallel warning of Paul, Peter and John. “Take heed to yourselves and all the flock; and from among your own selves will arise men speaking perverse things to draw away the disciples after them. Therefore be alert . . .” (Acts 20:28, 29). “There will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing up on themselves swift destruction” (II Pet. 2:1). “Beloved do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are of God; for many false prophets have gone out into the world” (I Jn. 4:1). Because the people believed false prophets many remained in the city during the Jerusalem siege and consequently suffered and died. Since those days there have been many other false teachers. We may not be lured away by Liberalism so easily but NeoOrthodoxy with its subtle undermining of
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the authority of the Scriptures is a greater threat. Let’s be sure of our commitment. 3) Increase of wickedness (vs. 12, 13). “And be cause wickedness (lawlessness) is multiplied most men’s love will grow cold.” Due to the increase of lawlessness there will be a gradual cooling off of love; therefore the imperativeness of vigilant, con tinual commitmnt of the past, that is not actually effective today. Scriptural assurance is grounded on a faith that is alive today. “But he who endures to the end will be saved.” This may have reference to physical life as well as spiritual, but the necessity of spiritual endurance, of course, is clearly taught in the Word. Compare Rev. 2:10, “Do not fear what you are about to suf fer. Behold the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation. Be faithful unto death and I will give you the crown of life,” Luke 2:19 states, “By your endurance you will win your souls. It is thus necessary to continue to be faith ful, to continue enduring. 4) Preaching of the gospel throughout the whole world (v. 14) “This gospel of the kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world; as a testi mony to all nations; and then the end will come.” We pointed out earlier that commitment involved throwing in our lot with Christ and His cause. His cause is the proclamation of the gospel. In a sense this was fulfilled prior to the de struction of Jerusalem according to Col. 1:22, “the gospel . . . has been preached to every creature under heaven.” See Acts 1:8. But it will not actually be consummated until just prior to Jesus’ return according to this verse. What is the content of the message we are to sound out? It is described here as “the gospel of salvation, but rather to the announcement of Christ’s return. The preachers will not be Christians at all, but rather the Jewish remnant left on earth after the church is gone. But the Bible does not differ entiate between “the gospel of the kingdom” and “the gospel” Jesus, Paul, and the other disciples preached. Jesus announced the good news of the kingdom (Mk. 1:15). Philip was engaged in its proclamation (Acts 8:12). Till the end of his labors Paul preached it. (Acts 28:23, 30-31). The Great Commission is to be carried on till “the end of the age” (Mk. 28: 18:20) There is no indication of a change of message till then. Observe also the close connection between the witness of believers and the return of our Lord in Acts 1:9-11. The content of the message is summarized by Paul in I Cor. 15:1-5, “I preached to you the gos pel . . . that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day . . . and that He appeared.” THE MESSENGER
We must urge people to receive this message and to stand in it (I Cor. 15:1). If they do they will be delivered from death (I Tim. 1:10; I Cor. 15:24, 26), Satan (Heb. 2:14, 15), and sin (Matt. 1:21).
Our goal is “the whole world.” We have not been commanded to save “all nations”, but to give a testimony to all. Too often we are apologetic re garding our task of proclaiming the Word, but there is no need for it. The Church’s mandate is more im portant than that of any other organization — in cluding the United Nations.
What impels us in our witness? The Knowledge that when our goal is reached our Lord will return. “Then the end will come.” Do we want to have a part in hastening the return of Christ? Then we must commit ourselves unreservedly to Him, and His cause, the spreading of the gospel.
We have considered the signs of the end: (1) the personal suffering of believers, (2) the arising of false prophets, (3) the increase of wickedness, and (4) the preaching of the gospel throughout the world; noting their significance to commitment. Next we focus attention on the section beginning at V. 29, which deals with additional indication of the coming of Christ. 2. The Coming of the Son of Man. (vs. 29-31). 1) Cosmic signs (v. 29). There are still some indirect references to the destruction of Jerusalem, but the main thrust is the coming of the Lord. “Immediately after the tribulation of those days ...” Some people have been troubled by the adverb, “immediately”. Does it mean that the Lord will come immediately after the destruction of Jerusalem? If we take this passage only, it might seem that way. But checking the parallel verses in Luke is helpful (21:23, 24). “Great distress shall be upon the earth and wrath among this people; they will fall by the edge of the sword, and be led cap tive among all nations; and Jerusalem will be trod den down by the Gentiles, until the time of the Gentiles is fulfilled.” The implication is that this passage is not completely fulfilled yet. The events predicted are still going on. As soon as they are consummated the Lord will appear. When, we do not know.
“The moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken.” — cataclysmic cosmic convulsions! 2) The sign of the Son of Man (vs. 30-31). Com pare I Thess. 4:16-18. What will happen when He comes? (1) All the tribes of the earth will mourn. (2) All the tribes of the earth will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, (3) He will send His angels with a loud trumpet call to gather His elect.
39). The activities related are not necessarily ^nful. They are neutral, but the shocking thing is that those thus engaged are completely ignoring the warnings of an almighty God. The coming of the Lord will be completely unexpected. But we must be different. We must be alert. We must be commit ted. 3) The illustration of the two men and the two women (vs. 40-44). Jesus does not say that this will be a secret separation, but He makes it clear that two different destinies are involved. The gist of the comparison is that since the time of His coming is unknown we must be watchful at all times.
4) The illustration of the householder (vs. 4344). The application is similar. 5) The illustration of the slave set over other slaves of the household (vs. 45-51) . The headslave did not intend to continue his wickedness to the end. He was just going to have a momentary fling. By the time his master returned he would be tend ing to his business already. He had underestimated the power of sin. We don’t dare gamble with care less living, we must be committed now. Just a word about chapter 25. The parable of the virgins illustrates that there are those who have a “form of godliness” but “deny the power thereof.” There is no genuine commitment. There must be internal faithfulness.
The parable of the talents illustrates the need of faithfulness in externals.
Finally, there is the description of the judg ment, which has been interpreted by some as re ferring to the judgment of the living nations before the millenium; and by others, as referring to the final judgment. I favor the latter at present and do not see that it necessarily conflicts with a premillenial interpretation of eschatology. Conclusion — In conclusion, I believe Matthew chapters 24 and 25 are written to us in our day. The Lord tells us of signs and also of the need to be ready. How to reconcile the two may pose some difficulties. But remember that Jesus taught both. Regarding the judgment, I can see that the view of one general judgment could be reconciled with both the premilleniel and amilleniel positions. How ever, the important lesson is this, that as far as prophecy is concerned it should serve to forewarn and forearm us. Realizing the certainty of His com ing and yet the uncertainty concerning the time of His coming we should commit ourselves whole heartedly and continually to Christ and His cause, the proclamation of the gospel to the entire world. There is no greater satisfaction than this.
3. The call to readiness (vs. 32-51). 1) The illustration of the fig tree (vs. 32-36). The main point of the parable is that the events Christ has been depicting are signs of the certainty and imminence of His coming. 2) The illustration of the days of Noah (vs. 37October 24, 1969
BIBLIOGRAPHY 1
R. C. H. Lenski, The Interpretation of Matthew’s Gospel, Columbus: The Wartburg Press, 1943), p. 933.
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DVBS in Mexico
Getting Settled IT’S OVER A MONTH since we arrived and by this time most of the adjustments have been made and we feel that we’re part of the work once more.
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A typical VBS in Mexico.
WHAT IS OUR AIM in teach ing DVBS in Mexico and how do we go about reaching our goal? First of all, our aim is to reach as many children as possible with the Gospel and give sound Biblical instruction to children who have heard the Gospel before. To reach this goal we generally start With the Christians in the villages where we have members of our church. They can do a lot in order to make known the fact that DVBS will be held in the village. In some villages they also do the teaching. When teachers arrive in a village they also make an effort to visit homes. We try to get the children to invite others as much as possi ble, too. The numbers vary greatly in the various villages, ranging from 12 to 65 enrolled in a village. We feel that it is worthwhile to give classes even though the num ber attending is small because the children of Christian parents also need this extra Bible instruction. DVBS also presents an opportunity to the children for making a deci sion for Christ which we can say to God’s glory that some did during the DVBS this summer. In the Pi cacho area 439 children were en rolled in the classes. A second aim in our DVBS pro gram here in Mexico is to get our Mexican Christians involved in service as much as possible and to place them in different villages in order to become acquainted with their fellow believers and the Lord’s work in other villages. To reach this goal it does mean at times that the missionary must make an extra trip to transport the young people from one place to
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another. However, we feel this is very worthwhile because some young people who are going ahead for the Lord have very little op portunity for fellowship with other young people. Thus, when they get the opportunity to spend a week in service together with another young person it presents them with the opportunity to fellowship while at the same time they make them selves useful in the Lord’s service. For example, one girl of Lazaro Cardenas is the only Christian girl in her village and has very little opportunity to leave home. She was able to teach DVBS together with another girl of Terrero who also is the only Christian girl in her village. Both of them needed the fellowship greatly and we not iced how one could help the other. Seventeen of the Mexican Christ ians participated in the DVBS this summer. In five ranches the Mexi cans were totally in charge of the DVBS work. A third aim of our DVBS pro gram is to reach adults at the same time. This is done by house visitation and if possible some spe cial meetings for adults in the eve ning. This is especially practical if the missionary has to go out to the village and stay there for a week. The closing program of course, presents an opportunity to reach some parents of the children as well. As a whole, we feel that the DVBS program is a very vital part in our evangelical work in Mex ico, since a number of churches have been started through this work. Submitted by Mrs. Tina Plett
I guess we had forgotten just how warm the tropics could get and for a while we didn’t feel too energetic. However, either it has cooled off a bit or else our bodies have become re-acclimatized; any way we’re doing better now.
Our house, which had stood empty for over a year was pretty dirty and in need of some minor repairs but scrub-brush, paint brush, hammer and saw have al ready worked wonders and by now it’s quite livable. A big help was getting our household goods down here. With pots and dishes in the kitchen, books in the study, and toys underfoot the place feels like home. We’re once again busy teaching the M.K.’s and working in the nearby church on Sundays. The work in this immediate area has gone ahead while we were away. People have been saved and bap tized. Two young people are at tending Bible Institute, and the older Christians have taken a greater part in the work of the church.
We are looking forward to using national help in reaching a number of new areas with D.V.B.S. and visitation campaigns when the dry season begins. The Panamanian children are out of school and our Christian young people will be available too.
Sincerely in Him,
Clifford Reimer N.B. The Reimers drove down with a station wagon which they had purchased here and on which they are to pay $1500 duty. This has to be met 60 days after entry (Nov. 14). Pray that the Lord will provide this so that they can use the car. Ed. THE MESSENGER
Two Join MCC Service Program
CAROL FRIESEN JOINS CHURCH SERVICE PROGRAM IN PENNSYLVAINIA Akron, Pa. (MCC) - Carol Friesen Morris, Man., has begun a one-year term of service in Pennsylvania under the Mennonite Central Committee, a church relief and service agency with an international program. Miss Friesen graduated from the Steinbach Bible Institute with a degree in Christian Education. She is serving as secretary for the Latin American and Mennonite Indemnity, Incorporated de partment at MCC Headquarters in Ak ron, Pa. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Friesen, Morris, Man., and is a member of the Evangelical Mennonite Church, Rosenort, Man.
MARY REIMER JOINS CHURCH SERVICE PROGRAM IN KENTUCKY
Akron, Pa. (MCC) . Mary Reimer, Fisher Branch, Man., has volunteered for a one-year term of service in Ken tucky under the Mennonite Central Committee, a church relief and service agency with an international program. Miss Reimer is a graduate of Grace Hospital School of Nursing from which she received her R.N. degree. She will be involved in nursing at the Appala chian Regional Hospital in MC Dowell, Ken. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Reimer, Fisher Branch, Man., and is a member of the Evangelical Metinonite Church, Fisher Branch.
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October 24, 1969
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IMMEDIATELY LICENCED PRACTICAL 'NURSE
Various Experiences in Mexico Box 180, Lower Chihuahua Chih., Mexico October Sth, 1969 Greetings to our Fellow-Brethren, Precious Thoughts Let us take note of the “but” in Rom. 6:23. It contrasts wages and gifts, sin and God, death and eter nal life. We as Christians have much to reioice in this precious eternal Gift of God and to tell others about it too. Past Happenings We’ve all been doing fine most of the time. Gaylene has been growing as only a baby could and
also fought ants, worms, wood roaches, flies, and bugs. Present Doings We are in McAllen now for Bor der Renewal staying at the Har vesters International Mission. Spent a week at El Paso. At Camp 28 our passports were held back, but re gained them the next day with some unwelcome threats not to enter again. Last night we had an enjoyable fellowship at R.G.B.I. visiting with Dora Friesen, Martha Bartel, and Sarah Martens. They’re all busy and happy as it seems. Possible Future Unknown yet wonderful, the Lord will lead. We expect to re enter Mexico on Thursday and stay till after Easter. What then? The Lord knows. During this stay we expect to live in Campo 77, help ing with Sunday School, Worship Service, Bible Study and Sing Practice. Also we plan on visita tions and Bible School for the win ter months. We ask, “Will you be a part of this future?” Come and help, pray and give. The Lord will bless. In Christian Service, Edwin, Lydia, Gregory and Gaylene Reimer.
has a good start also in her smil ing lessons. Gregory has been on the move either playing with Gay lene, kissing her loved ones or beg ging to play outside. Besides en joying a busy, yet happy family life here, we have visited some of the sick, lonely, needy or unsaved. We have seen some gain VICTORY and others slip further into sin. We have been appreciated and re jected, have been true in witness yet often failed, have often been encouraged yet seen discourage ments too. Besides fighting the great forces of the evi'l one we have
To take up duties as assistant to the matron.
Write or Phone REST HAVEN NURSING
HOME Box 820
Steinbach, Man.
Tel. 326-3605 J
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New Campsite on Lake Winnipeg
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On June 10, 1969 the brotherhood of four EMC churches, Mennville, River ton, Morweena, and Fisher Branch aJfter a few previous meetings decided to go ahead with building a Summer Bible Camp site of their own. From three pro posed sites, a site was chosen on Lake Winnipeg at Beaver Creek, some 30 miles north of Riverton, Man. From there on work started immedi ately. Pledges had to be taken, the lot lease procurred, and a large part of the 6 acre lot cleared. The large cottage which was on the lot was relocated and renovated into a kitchen and large dining room. A very useful two bedroom house was also moved in and serves as a staff house. Four cabins were built and haul ed in and with the aid of a $1000 loan from the Conference Church Building
Fund an attractive 24x32 camp chapel was built on the site. Looking at the site one realizes that only a rough framework has been start ed with much left to do but we are in deed grateful to God, the churches, and individuals for Beaver Creek Bible Camp. Camp sessions opened on August 4 with children ages 9-11. The 12-14 and over age group came in on the 9th staying till the 15th. We received plen ty of campers for both children’s and teen's camp — 46 in Childrens camp and 42 in teens camp. The majority of campers came from non-Mennonite ho mes. The first week the camp was staffed by 3 lady and 3 men counsellors, 3 girls in the kitchen, the camp director Mr. Harry Friesen and Mr. Edwin Wright
E.M.C. Nurses Fellowship TWENTY-EIGHT NURSES were gathered at the Morris Fellowship Chapel on October 3, for the fourth annual E.M.C. Nurses Fellowship. The wet weather was a disap pointment and even though the attendance was much lower than we had expected, we felt a real enthusiasm and a spirit of warmth and fellowship. Lena Brandt ably chaired the program and opened the meeting with prayer and the reading of Page 8
Psalm 121. “Reflections”, a group of five young people from Kane, provided the music. Their choice of contem porary songs was both inspiration al and entertaining. We greatly ap preciated and enjoyed their ren dition. It was a real challenge to have Rev. H. Klassen, Hospital Chaplain in Winnipeg, speak to us on meet ing the “Patients’ Spiritual Needs.” His seven years of serving the Mennonite patients in Winnipeg
being present for evening services as speakers. The second week was much the same, 3 lady and 3 men counsellors, a couple and a girl in the kitchen, the camp di rector and Mr. Peter K. Friesen as our camp pastor. Besides these many other people were involved a little more be hind the scenes. There was the 15 mem ber camp board, the many who gave fin ancially and the Sewing Circles which supplied liberally much of the good food which is so important at camp. What was camp like? It was enjoyed by most of the 88 campers as well as the staff. The program of activities seemed full — a little too full for the staff, but seemed to meet the need of most of the campers. The response of the campers was good for the greater part. A number of the campers showed growth in knowledge about Spiritual things and a good number responded in open decisions for Csrist. Especially grateful are we for the older campers, who after hearing very clearly of the cost of “Running in the. Greatest Race Ever .Held” still stepped out and “met the coach’’ Jesus, and began on' “the starting line." We trust that the Spirit is in them now to give them new direct ion in life. To us is left the praying and instructing in follow-up to keep these young Christians moving on in the narrow way. Future Plans
For the future we anticipate great things. We aim for more improvements on the property and facilities, improve ment in the program and staff, a great er utilization of the camp as a whole, and of course an increasing ministry to the spiritually hungry world around us. There are still so many unsaved youth around and camp gives them a unique opportunity to consider lifes most ur gent questions in a much more unhin dered environment than elsewhere.
hospitals, have wdll prepared him to speak to us. He shared numerous experiences with us and alerted us to the needs of the sick, as he encounters them in his visits. The greatest needs he feels that need to be met are; fear, worry, loneliness, guilt and lack of faith. To the question, “How can you as a nurse meet these needs?” he said that our ministry is two fold; that of word and deed. He seemed to be well aware of our limited time, but strongly encour aged us to be keen in discerning a patient’s needs, winning his confi-
THE MESSENGER
dence and following the feelings of the patient. We could then serve as a link in referring the patient to the minister who would further counsel them. Of utmost import ance, he told us, was that we live close to the Lord at all times. A presentation on “What’s hap pening to Nursing?” was given by Miss Amanda Reimer R.N. She has had past experience in nursing in the Congo and is presently serving as Assistant Director of Nursing, at Grace Hospital in Winnipeg. She brought us up to date on the latest discoveries and techniques in modern nursing service and educa tion. The increase in scientific and medicai knowledge in her twenty years of nursing experience, she feels, is overwhelming. She chal lenged us to keep up to date in nursing, and made us aware of the prediction that in the future the professional nurse will attain equal status with the doctor. This will require of her a much broader medical knowledge in such fields as bacteriology and chemistry. As such, we as nurses face an exciting future but at the same time. Miss Reimer said that she is very afraid what might happen: “The heart will be taken out of nursing and if the heart is taken out of nursing, you are rbo longer a nurse.” An example she used is the heart monitor machine. A nurse can now sit at her desk and have an accurate recording of the patient’s temperature, pulse, blood pressure and heart tracing without going near the patient. This is mak ing nursing impersonal. In closing, she encouraged us to do our best as Christian nurses and to always keep “the heart” in nursing. A business meeting followed in which the executive for the com ing year was elected. The members are: Linda Schinkel R.N., Blumenort, Betty Friesen R.N. Morris, Susan Friesen L.P.N., Morris, Eliz abeth Reimer L.P.N., Steinbach and Ella Barkman L.P.N. Stein bach. P.S. We regret that so many of you couldn’t be with us. We al ready extend a hearty welcome to our Fellowship next year. If you are not on our mailing list or have just entered training and your name has as yet not been submitted to us, please feel free to contact us. We as executive stand ready to serve you. Betty Friesen October 24, 1969
HUDSON BAY
July 7-11 was D.V.B.S. week in Etomami. The lessons were taught at the Btomami hall. Enrollment increased throughout the week so that by the time the last day rolled aroimd 49 pupils were enrolled. The closing program was well attended by the mothers and several of the fathers of the pupils. A delicious lunch of sandwiches and dainties was served by the ladies of the community. Teachers were Grace Thiessen and Doris Friesen from Riverton and Rev. Andrew Dueck and Irene Reimer from Hudson Bay. July 18 marked the closing program at the chapel Grace Thiessen, Doris Friesen, Paul and Mildred Harms from Riverton and Rev. Andrew Dueck and Irene Reimer taught a group of 54 youngsters. July 18 marked the closing program and also a short farewell for Rev. and Mrs. Andrew Dueck and family who left our midst to return to Riverton. We were sorry to see them go. On Sunday August 3 we were happy to have our new pastor and family, Mr, and Mrs. Edwin Friesen with us. May the Lord bless their ministry here. We have been sorry to see several of our congregation leave us this summer. Mr. and Mrs. Tom Legett moved to Winnipeg. Dave Thiessen, who faithful ly served v.s as songleader and Sunday school tbacher, left to attend the M.B, B.C. in Winnipeg. September 26-28 our missionary con ference. It took quite a bit of effort on part of our speakers to reach us be cause of adverse weather and road con ditions. We are grateful for their minis try which they so cheerfully performed inspite of broken fan belts, cars landing in ditches and 4 mile walks in the rain. Craft club has been started again for another season. A.fter a rather small beginning due to bad weather and mud dy roads, the second session saw 13 youngsters between the ages of 8-15 out for the club. Mrs. Aron Reimer. PANSY The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and — ? Have we achieved that which we set out to achieve? Many hours of strenuous labour have gone in to the completing of the feed and grain harvest. Yet where do we stand in the spiritual harvesting, which the Lord has planned for us to do?
Our D.V.B.S. this summer was a blessing, reaching some 75 children. We used the 5-lesson course from Scripture Press and liked it. What proved to be a milestone for us, was the fact that for the first time our teaching personnel consisted of local workers only. Oct. 5 turned out to be a really “Bles sed Lord’s Day”. Promotion Exercises are always important to the younger set. Also we had with us the Ruben Friesens, missionaries to Mali, Africa. Their reports and the message really gripped our hearts. Almost — it seemed we could see for ourselves, the dear lost ones waiting to be told. Are we faith ful? BIRTHS
June 26 to Brother and Sister Harry Punk, a son, Herman Mark. Sept. 2, to Brother and Sister Tony Tesarski, a daughter, Virginia Germaine ENDEAVOUR
Friday Sept. 12 the young people had a request program which proved inte resting and showed up some real talent. Sunday evening Sept. 14 another Christian Endeavour program was held. Mr. Ed. Penner spoke especially to the young people. Monday Sept. 15 a general meeting was held in preparation for the annual meeting. The Womens prayer fellowship met at the home of Mrs. June Jackabowski on Sept. 17 at which time work on a quilt was started. Sunday morning Sept. 21 Mr. and Mrs. Ed. Penner and Mr. Dennis Thies sen were received into fellowship. In the evening a farewell program for Leona Wilkinson, Shirley Kobe, Allan Dow ney and Bert Buhler was held in the church basement. The evening was closed with every one enjoying some hearty singing while the ladies prepar ed pie and ice cream. We wish these young people the Lord’s blessing as they attend Bible School. Monday 22 of Sept, the annual meet ing was held with a good deal of busi ness and elections attended to. Friday Sept. 26 Mr. John K. Reimer was with us to open our Missionary con ference. His message for the evening was entitled "Enlargement”. We were served at this time by a Number from Arabella. Saturday Gladwin Plett of the West Indies was with us and gave a message “Leave me Alone”. Sunday morning Mrs. Ben D. Reimer shared
Page 9
with us some of the adverse things they face on the field. Mr. Reimer brought the morning message. Sunday evening Miss Plett, mission ary to Spain spoke of her year spent at Oshawa, Ont. and showed some slides. Mr. Reimer showed some slides of their work. Monday evening Miss Lulla Morgan was with us for our last evening. She showed some interesting slides of her work in Swaziland, South Africa and spoke of the work at the school there. The taped singing was a real thrill. Friday, Oct. 3 in spite of the muddy roads the Arabella young people brought a program of song and word to v,s. We did appreciate the effort put in to this. For our young peoples on Oct. 10 the theme was "Prayer”. Our new Young Peoples leader Dennis Thiessen is now in charge. For our Sunday morning service we welcomed visitors, Sunday evening an other Christian Endeavour program was held. The various numbers were a real blessing with visiters enjoying it with us. HERON Summer has come and gone, and wth it, many activities. The highlight of ou.r summer was the wedding of our pastor Rev. Henry Klassen and Anne Kroeker of Rosencrt, which took place on July 26. We wish you both God’s richest bles sing as you serve together. Peter Thiessens, Trudy and Susan left us for an extended trip to Paragu ay. They boarded a jet in Winnipeg on September 25. They plan to assist the missionaries in East Paraguay. The ranks of cur young people’s group have again been depleted. Melvin Klassen and Larry Penner have begun studies at S.B.I. Lavem Penner is at tending the University of Manitoba. Kathy Thiessen has taken up a teaching position at Mennville. Wilbert Friesen is still working at Cranberry Portage, and Garry Thiessen and Richard Klas sen are working at Brooks, Alberta. All these departures have especially affected our Sunday School and choir work. Ben Thiessens are the happy parents of a chosen daughter, Sharon, 8 months.
PRAIRIE ROSE The combination of our extension S. S. and V.B.S. by the Jugend Verein committee proved to be quite enlight ening and interesting Oct. 12. Bros. Frank Goertzen and Sid Koop told of the V.B.S. that they had con ducted at Weekes, and Neely Lake,
Page 10
Saskatchewan. A local Christian couple had greatly helped in V.B.S. at iN’ew Bothwell we were told by Mrs. Melvin Reimer. Mrs. Robert Koop shared with the congregation of the nice little group at the Prairie Grove chapel where they had had a week of strenuous Bible studies. A total of 161 students had been in structed this summer. Brother Ronald Penner told us of the church services and S. S. at Prairie Grove with Rev. Abe P. Unger minis tering to them as one of the responsible ones. They are enjoying a nice enroll ment of around 45 with about ten wil ling workers. People and children come from as far away as Rosewood. Floyd Penner was in charge of the young peoples choir. They rendered two songs one together with workers with Francis Furgeson as piano accompanist, who also played a piano solo. Reference was also made with gratitude to the 13 years of faithful dedicated service of the Emil Reimers, who have now mov ed to Blumenort. The sun seemed to shine through just long enough for Mrs. Rudy Penner (with boys) and Mr. Cornie Martens (Kola) to be united in holy matrimony Sept. 27.
No doubt the readers will remember of Mr. Penner’s sudden passing about two years ago, and now the Heavenly Father had answered prayer in again providing a husband and father. Rev. Art Neufeld officiated in the English language, illustrating his mes sage from 1. Cor. 3: 10-13, in the form of a house starting with the foundation as Jesus Christ; the roof as the cover ing of a prayer life; the door - a place of welcome: the windows as good home relations, and a godly outlook. A solo “The Lord’s Prayer” was sung by Lloyd Penner. Many relatives and friends of the bri de and groom had come to fill the sanc tuary. A delicious supper was served to all, with a good old fashioned program following.
The Comie Martens expect to move to The Pas where he is a partner in a pulp business. We will miss “Faith” now, and her busy life of caring for her three sons, and visiting friends, but nevertheless are rejoicing with her new life of hap piness.
MORWEENA
The following young people were bap tized upon confession of faith and re ceived into Church fellowship. Vernon Plett, Jerry Brandt, Jerry Reimer, Glen Plett, Norma Loewen, Pearl Dueck, Cla rice Plett and Janice Penner. Bro. Arnold Brandt has transferred his membership from the Blumenort E. M. Church to Morweena E. M. Church. We extend to him a hearty welcome. Bro. Allan Plett has left for Stein bach where he is attending the Stein bach Bible Institute. Wishing him the best and God’s blessing. We extend a hearty welcome to Mr. and Mrs. Cornie Thiessen and family into our midst. The Thiessens live in the town of Arborg. Mr. Thiessen drives the Gray Goose Bus between Arborg and Winnipeg. The Thiessens are for merly from Morris. On Sunday Sept. 21 we were happy to have Bro. and Sis. Ben Derksen from Blumenort. Bro. Derksen made the opening morning worship service. He spoke on Luke 19: 1-10 and John 10: 20-22. We bid a hearty welcome to Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Siemens and family to ou.r midst. Mr. Siemens has taken the posi tion of High School teacher in our pri vate High School. He teaches grades IX and X. Sunday Sept. 28 we were privileged to have Bro. Isaac Plett and Bro. Frank D. Reimer in our midst. Bro. Plett made opening remarks from 1. Cor. 13. Bro. Reimer brought the message which proved to be both challenging and in spiring. Both brethren come from Prai rie Rose. On October 1, Mr. and Mrs. A. C. L. Penner received visitors from British Honduras. They were the Mr. and Mrs. Peter J. Dueck. They have been visit ing other friends and relatives here in Manitoba as well.
RIVERTON GOSPEL CHAPEL Congratulations and God’s blessing are extended to Willy Weik and Ellen Ross on their recent engagement! A spring wedding is being planned. On Sunday, August 13, during the evening worship service, Mr. and Mrs. Levi Reimer were formally accepted as members of the Riverton Chapel.
THE MESSENGER
r
On September 14, a farewell was held for Rev. and Mrs. Edwin Wright and family, and Mrs. Wright’s mother Mrs. Gillespie. The Wrights have served us faithfully for the last three years. They are now on a one year furlough, and are residing in Landmark. At present Rev. Harvey Barkman is our interim pastor; he comes out to Riverton ap proximately every second Sunday. Following a visit at the Peter B. Duecks in Fisher Branch, Mr. and Mrs. Bernie Brandt and family from Kamsack, Saskatchewan, came to see the Levi Reimers on September 14. A newcomer at the Peter Loewen home is little Gregory 1David, who arrived on September 23,, and weighed 8 lb. oz. An Interlake Sunday School Conven tion took place at the Morweena Church, on Sunday October 12. Guest speaker was Rev. Henry Voth, a Chris tian Education teacher at MBBC in Winnipeg, who spoke on "Opportunities and Privileges of a Sunday School Teacher". The afternoon session con cluded with four different workshops Kindergarten, Mrs. Mary Barkman; Juniors, Mr. Menno Penner; Intermedi ates, Mr. Ron Friesen; Youth, Mr. Tony Kornelson. During this period Rev. Voth spoke to the parents on the “Parents Role in Sunday School’. ’The evening session included a question and answer period, a special number by a mass choir, and another inspiring message by Rev. Voth. On ’Thanksgiving Day several mem bers of the congregation gathered at the Chapel for maintenance and cleaning. Following the "work bee” they fellow shipped around a Thanksgiving lunch. MORRIS
Our Young People seem to be putting more action into their plans than ever. Under the able leadership of Don Hein richs they have had a social, with a wiener roast on the church grounds, and devotional by the Pastor. An evening of vocal music by the “Harmonies" of Landmark was much enjoyed by a full church at the Sept. Y. P. This was followed by a sermonette on the power of praise by Rev. C. B. Loewen. It was a time of rich bles sing as we realized the power of praise through song, sermon, and fellowship Coffee and doughnuts were served la ter. Sincere get well wishes to Mrs. Bill Schellenberg who is recuperating at St. Boniface Hospital. Also to F. L. Kroeker of Rosenort, whom we have also missed in our fellowship. We wish to announce the arrival of
October 24, 1969
Baptismal service, at Morris last sum mer. Baptized were Beverley Remple and Mary Fast, seen here with Rev. C. B. Loewen.
Phyllis Diane to Alvin and Diana Rem pel, Sept. 4, and Valerie Rose to Henry and Eva Kroeker, on Sept. 22, 1969. Congratulations go out to Frank and Gertie Friesen of Swan River on the birth of a son on Sept. 20th! The wedding of Sharon Loewen, daughter of Corny and Tina Loewen, and Ron Friesen took place at the Rocenort church on Sept. 26th. The con gregation extends hearty congratulati ons and God’s blessings for your future! Low German services will begin in our chapel on Oct. 6th. Speaker for the week will be Rev. J. J. Neufeld of Win nipeg. Visitations are planned prior, to in vite Mennonite residents of Morris. MAC GREGOR
’The Lord’s blessings were once again experienced in our summer ministries. Mr. and Mrs. Menno Hamm, home for the summer, directed the C.S.S.M. Camp at Carberry. Rev. and Mrs. Koop and family were at Camp Jubiliee for a week where Rev. Koop was the main speaker. ’The Daily Vacation Bible Schools were successful with Evelyn Barkman of Portage as superintendent and the other girls from MacGregor, the Lavenham. D.V.B.S. turned out really good. The attendance was 30. Rev. Koop di rected the work here in MacGregor with an attendance of 82 and 8 teach ers. We trust the seed sown in young hearts will take root and bring forth fruit for time and eternity. Our young people singing in their choir have been very active all summer. Besides choir practise each Saturday night they conducted street meetings and sang in the hospital and manor on alternate Saturdays. On August 10 the choir left early in the morning to conduct a morning ser vice at the Ninette Sanatorium. From
-.’f H MV*
there they went to the Peace Gardens for lunch and the afternoon. In August they also combined efforts with Valley Stream choir. Under the direction of Marvin Thiessen the choir prepared and rendered some programs. First of all an Open Air Service at the Austin Museum Grounds on August 31st was presented. Singing to a large audience from the surrounding areas the claims of the gospel were presented sin cerely and with enthusiasm by the choir and soloist Larry Thiessen of Brandon. Then on September 21st the combined choir brought another program in the Baptist Church in Brandon. Having taken part in a pre-service prayer meet ing the young people sang heartily be fore a full house, preparing hearts for the message from the Word of God. Marvin Thiessen presented the claims of Christ after which an invitation was given. It is our prayer that all may have profited spiritually. May souls have been brought into the fold as a result. Those on our sick list are Archie Harton, and Mrs. Harold Brown (is at home now). It is good when we remember the sick in prayer. July 6 we had baptismal service with Ruth Esau, Beverly Glesbrecht and Sharon Giesbrecht receiving baptism. In the afternoon a communion service was held. ABERDEEN CHURCH (Winnipeg)
Our Winnipeg churches have been called “churches on wheels because it seems members move in and out of the city frequently. Over the last month we are happy that most of the moving was “in” as far as our group is con cerned. Welcome to the Ben Dycks from Flin Flon, the Allan Friesens from Gimli, the Lome Friesens from Swan River and Arnold, Mary and Matha Kornelson from Blumenort. Also welcome to the Victor Friesens and the Jake Dycks, both of Fort Garry. We are happy, too, for the college and nursing students from out-of-town churches who are making this their home church when here on weekends. Childrens Work
Oct. 5 was Promotion Sunday for our Sunday School. Elmer Warkentine, Su perintendent, chaired the worship ser vice that morning. Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Punk, missionaries on furlough from Paraguay, were with us and Mr. Funk gave the message. We are thankful for the staff of teachers and workers who serve so faithfully. The Girls’ Club has begun again for another season. Five workers and approximately 25 students come to the
Page 11
church each Tuesday for choir, Bible study, craft work and cooking lessons. Good News Club for the boys and girls will be starting Oct. 20. Elizabeth Dueck is the teacher. BLUMENORT
The senior choir goes to the Cana dian National Institute for the Blind, Winnipeg, every other week on Thurs day, to serve in song. This service is much appreciated by the in-mates of the institute. Last week Saturday, Oct. the 11th. the choir left per chartered bus for Flin Flon and Mafeking, where they render ed a program. May the Lord bless these efforts. Deeper life services are planned for October 26-29, with Bro. Henry P. Frie sen serving as guest speaker. Thurs day Oct. we anticipate commemorating the Lord’s Supper, if the Lord so leads. Oct. 31 - Nov. 2, Missionary conferen ce will follow the above mentioned ser vices. May we be yielded, and set eter nal values as our goal, so that God may add His Blessings to all of this. Thanksgiving service was held Mon day, Oct. 13th. consisting of song, poem, sermonettes, and offerings. After the service arrangements were made
for a short time of fellowship in the lower auditorium, where the ladies serv ed coffee and cookies. FIS.HER BRANCH
The Larry Duecks, John F. Plett and Norman Dueck are out for further stu dies. Miss Sara Reimer has now taken up duties at Mennville teaching grades 9 and 10. Miss Hilda Dyck is teaching grade 1 in Fisher Branch and is living in a rent ed room together with her mother Mrs. A. Dyck from Lowe Farm. The Donald Warkentins are again teaching north of Hodgson and also helping in the Gospel mssion there. The weather has been favorable this summer and a good harvest is over half done, when a rainy week started Sept. 20. Miss Rose Friesen is attending dut ies in the Selkirk Sanatorium and Miss Tina Dueck in Arborg Hospital. The Arnold Reimers are safely back from visiting their parents B. D. Sie mens in Alberta. The Elvin Reimers moved to Stein bach for the winter to attend the S. B. I. The new Bible camp at Beaver Creek, (north of Washaw Bay) opened this
summer by the EMC churches of Inter lake has proved to be a worthy venture for 2 weeks under the leadership of Brother Harry Friesen. Several cars full of children were taken there from Fi sher Banch area. Most of them had attended our DVBS classes before. The Dan Reimers of Prairie Rose are living in their new house bulit near his parents and are farmers. Welcome! The Walter Reimers, after their stu dies in Winnipeg have left us for B. C. to take up work manually and spiritual ly, We wish them God’s guidance. For the last few months we have had visiting speakers here. Bro. Dave Eidse, the B. D. Reimers, Nick Friesen, Jac. L. Kroeker; Andrew Dueck; David Thiessen; etc. On July 28 two persons were baptized, namely Allan Dueck and Loreen Plett officiated by Bro. P. P. Friesen. May they grow as new plants in the Lord’s vineyard. Norman Dueck is back from his trip to Europe. At Dauphin school, Miss Hall is re placing Miss Wiebe as teacher this term. She is also a Christian and sin cerely at work. She hails from California.
,,
E.M.C. Student-Ministerial Fellowship AN INVITATION is extended to all EMC and other interested post-high school students, University, Nurses Training, M.I.T, etc. (and wives or husbands) Ministers and Deacons (and wives) for an inspirational fellowship meeting.
PLACE: Mennonite Brethren Bible College, 77 Henderson Highway, Winnipg. Mon.
November 9th, 1969, at 5:30 p.m. PROGRAM I
Ministers Presentations:
Main Addresis:
Len Siemens, University of Manitoba
John P. Loewen and Harold Dyck
Student Presentations: Merna Loewen and Len Barkman
Music:
LeRoy Bartel
An interesting program has been planned, beginning with refreshments at 5:30. Plan to attend! LliilL!
Page 12
THE MESSENGER
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