The Messenger December 5, 1969

VOL. 7,

EVANGELICAL

NO. 25 ■II

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DEG. 5. 1969

M ENN0N ITi •s-W

C0NFERENCE

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IN THIS ISSUE: Anabaptism (11) ...... Arrivals W Paragua'?

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WHO SHALL EVANGELIZE? (II) AS STATED in the previous MESSENGER we want to continue on the vital topic of “Who Shall Evangelize?” As we study the subject we see that witnessing and soul-winning is the work of every Christian. One denominational Mission Board, in the Fore­ word of the book, “Witness Workshops” makes this comment, “No longer can the Christian church be satisfied with sharing limited to professional shar­ ers. A new day is dawning when Christians know intuitively and specifically that the responsibility for witness rests with them individually and col­ lectively, as well as with the professional minister and preacher.” Where this is practiced the Holy Spirit is bless­ ing with fruit beyond all human expectation. In Indonesia the Mennonite church has grown from 2,000 in 1951 to 32,000 in 1969. One of the reasons for the remarkable church growth in Indonesia could well be attributed to the words of pastor S. Djodjodihardj’o, an Indonesian Mennonite pastor visiting here last summer, when he said, “In In­ donesia we have more courage to witness and to work. We know gladness and joy. We are more con­ scious of the presence of tbs Lord.” Under the title, “What Couldn’t Happen Does in Congo” World Vision magazine reports in its Dec. 1968 issue how God mightily blessed a nation that seemed to have everything against it. Among the strong features contributing to the success of the Christ for All Crusade was, “. . . the progressive nature of the national plan which methodically strives to involve the entire church in evangelizing the entire society . . .” As noted last time, almost without exception our witnessing and sharing and evangelizing is done in a structure setting; a meeting; a Sunday school class, a service, etc. I believe a personal inventory into the lives of most of us would confirm this. And yet I believe one can also say that most structured functions are sadly bare of real fruit. What sometimes has been said jokingly, may yet one day come true that Africans (or Indone­ sians or Japanese) will come and evangelize us. The following testimony of effective lay witness comes to us from Takashi Yamada, a Japanese Mennonite pastor visiting and lecturing here last summer. We have much to learn from what he said and does. During the decade of 1958-1967 there were a total of 42 baptisms in his church. Twelve during the first five years and thirty during the last five years. During the latter period laymen be­ came very 'active in witnessing, as a result of which the number of seekers rose rapidly.

This church had come to the realization that, . in order to establish a strong missionary church to penetrate into society, occasional special campaigns are certainly insufficient. Rather, daily, continuous evangelism by members of the church must take place.” This principle'hefld true in Formosa when dur­ ing World War II missionaries were banished from the Island. They left a Bible, translated into the language of the people, and as few as two Christ­ ians, one an old lady converted in a hospital and the other a boy converted while living with a mis­ sionary family. Six years 'later when the mission­ aries returned there were 4,000 believers who had 12 churches and others under construction. All this because these two Christians had gonie to their tribe and had told what Jesus Christ had done for them. We are told that when missionaries were forced to leave Ethiopia in 1937 due to the Italian invasion they left 48 baptized believers. When they returned five years later, fearing the Gospel light might have been snuffed out in the ensuing years, they found not only 48 believers but some 100 churches and perhaps as many as 10,000 believers! I believe there is a theological basis for the total involvement of every member in witnessing. The parting words of Christ bear this out as He said, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is oome upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” (Acts 1:8) Paul puts it this way. “Now then we are am­ bassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.” (II Cor. 5:20). We need to pro­ claim the word of reconciliation. Peter reminds us that we are, “. . . a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvellous light.” (I Peter 2:9) We are reminded here of the function of the priest in Bible times. “The functions of the priest were not fo­ cused first at his own need, rather he lives and works for the welfare of others.” Wherein lies the reason that evangelism has almost totally been made the work of the clergy? Where is our hang-up in reaching people? We want to explore these and maybe other questions in our —D.S. D.S. next article. — News Reporters this issue: Pleasant Valley, Mrs. Mary Anne Loewen; Aberdeen, Mrs. Glenn Koop; Morweena, Edward Klassen; Hudson Bay, Mrs. Aron Reimer; Riverton Chapel, Mrs. Tena Reimer; Endea­ vour. Mrs. Peter Steppan; Blumenort, Elizabeth Reimer; Prairie Rose, Harold Plett. Cover: Limmat River, Zurich, Switzerland, site of the drowning of Felix Manz, one of the first Swiss Brethren martyrs. (Christian Living)

The 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 victorious Uving. 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 Mennonite Conference, Board of Education and Publication, Box 1268, Steinbach, Manitoba. Second Class Mail, Registration Number 0591. Undeliverable copies, change of address and new •ubacrlpUons should be mailed to the above address.

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THE MESSENGER

by Carolyn Goertzen The Anabaptists Part Two What They Believed The Biblicism of the Anabaptists led them to the doctrine of unequalified love and this doc­ trine is founded on the way of love and the cross as it is portrayed in the New Testament.” As God through Christ reconciled men unto Himself, He in turn gave unto them the minis­ try of reconciliation, God making His appeal of love through the Christian disiciple who does not repay evfl for evil, who does not avenge him­ self, who loves his enemies and prays for those who persecute him.i6 As intimated above, the doctrine of non-re­ sistance has implications for all phases of tbs Christ­ ian’s life. The basic motive is love, firstly to God, and secondly to the neighbour (Matt. 22:36-40). Christ expanded the idea of neighbour to include enemies. In the Christian brotherhood, there is to be a loving and forgiving spirit. This then spreads to those who hate the Christian (Matt. 5:43-45) Love to the enemy is commanded by Christ. The enemy is to be overcome by deeds of goodness. (Rom. 12:17-21.). In wider social relationships, justice and loving mercy are to prevail. Justice is embodied in love. “The evangelical Anabaptists and their spiritual de­ scendants, the Mennonites, understand the Bible to require the renunciation of all force in human rela­ tion, including warfare.”i7 Accordingly, the Ana­ baptists did not believe in using tbs law to settle differences (I Cor. 6:1, 6). It is better for the Christ­ ian to suffer injustice than to resort to justice by way of the law. Also in regard to the practice of non-resistance was the refusal of the Anabaptists to use the oath. This was also in keeping with New Testament teach­ ing. (Matt. 5:33-37) (James 5:12). Menno Simons stated his position in this matter clearly: The oath is required for no other purpose, but that we shall truthfully testify. Can the trial not be told without being sworn? So all testify to the truth, even when under oath? To the first question you must answer in the affirmative; and to the last in the negative.18 Instead of taking the oath when required, Menno­ nites make an affirmation. The doctrine of non-resistance was also appli­ cable in regard to the Anabaptist view of and rela­ tion to the state. They reco^ized the state as or­ dained of God for the maintenance of order, by the sword, if necessary, in the sub-Christian society of this world. However, because the Christian is first of all a disciple of Christ, he cannot participate in state functions without violating the New Testament ethic. The calling of the Christian in evangelism, not the dispensing of justice in the state. It does not

December 5, 1969

follow, however, that the Mennonites condemn the state. 19 The Anabaptists were to obey the state, but they were not to participate by holding a political office. “Their new concept of the church also required a complete separation of Church and State. In their emphasis on this separation . . . the Anabaptists were pioneers.”20 When obedience to the state conflicted with the teaching of the New Testament, the authority of the Scriptures was accepted. “For Grebel, the church is a suffering church with no right to use the sword or engage in war.”2i According to Grebel true Christians do not use the sword or war, be­ cause for them killing is done away with altogether. Grebel advocated not only the negative aspect of non-resistance of suffering, but the positive refusal to kill. “It is noteworthy that Grebel bases his re­ jection of the sword and war and killing as a whole, not upon the specific teaching of the Sermon on the Mount, but upon the thought of the suffering church. ”22 Today after 400 years of migrations, suffering and persecutions, there is a Mennonite Brother­ hood composed of some 500,000 baptized mem­ bers, scattered over, many parts of the globe, still witnessing in a warring world the more excellent way of love and non-resistance . . It is true . . . that God has abundantly blessed the peace and the service of love to his obedient children.23 Ill. The View of the Church The third main doctrine of the Anabaptists was their view of the church. The Anabaptists would have nothing to do with the State church. This was a main point in their separation from the Lutherans, Zwinglians and the Calvinists. The real church for them, was an association of committed disciples, based on the principle of the newness of life in Christ Jesus and applied Christianity. It was Grebel’s conception of a free church, consisting of freely committed and practicing believers, as apposed to the Volkskirche, or in­ clusive state church of the Catholics and most Protestants, which formed the basic doctrines of the Anabaptists.24 The church comes into existence through the preaching of the Word, through the voluntary acceptance of this Word of Truth, and through the consequent conversion and renewal of life of individual believers. ”25 According to Menno Simons the true church of Christ could be distinguished by the following: 1) unadulterable pure doctrine 2) scriptural use of the sacramental signs (Continued on page 5) 3

PARAGUAY

News Briefs

The following pictures were received on the morning our copy usually goes to the printers. They came air-mail from Frank Kroeker, Paraguay. We are happy to include them at this time as we be­ lieve they will prove of interest to our readers. ARRIVALS ON THE FIELD

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On Sept. 26, 1969, Mr. and Mrs. Peter Thiessen, Maryfield, Sask., with their daughters Trudy and Susan arrived in East Paraguay to help along in the work. They have come on their own and are planning to stay about one and

On Nov. 16, the bretheren John K. Reimer and John P. Loewen arrived in Asuncion, after having already visited other missionaries in Central and South America.

one half years.

On Nov. 23 from East Paraguay (from the home of the Frank Kroekers) these breth­ ren were privileged to speak to their wives in Manitoba by HAM radio just before their twoweek trip to the Chaco.

Mr. and Mrs. Henry D. Reimer, who spent the last two years under MCC in India arrived back in Man­ itoba on Nov. 14. The Reimers are the parents of Vernon Reimers who are also with MCC in that land. Dennis Friesen, Blumenort, and George Wiebe, Pansy, plan to leave for British Honduras on Dec. 3 to help with building construc­ tion at Kings College (GMU). They plan to be away for several months. Mr. and Mrs. Peter P. Friesen are on leave of absence from the Fisher Branch Church to take up a work among Mennonites in Mex­ ico. They have taken their family with them with the exception of one married daughter. Rev. Andrew Plett, Arborg, has taken up leadership duties at the Fisher Branch EMC church during the absence of the Peter P. Frie­ sens. Harvey Plett, Steinbach Bible Institute, was speaker at the re­ cent missionary conference at the Chortitzer Mennonite Church in Steinbach. Harvey Barkman has taken up

duties as interim pastor at the Ri­ verton Gospel Chapel. The Bark­ mans are on extended leave from Congo. Mr. Barkman is presently principal at the Landmark Colle­ giate and commutes to Riverton. The Edwin Wrights, Canada Committee workers at Riverton, Man. are presently on furlough and residing at Landmark, Man. The Wrights began service around 1956 when they were placed at Canora, Sask. They served at Endeavour, Sask, before coming to Riverton in 1966.

COMING Feb. 6 - 8 Annual S.B.I. Youth Conference Keep these dotes open.

F. P. Kroeker.

THE MESSENGER

B.C. REPORT EMC activity in B.C. dates back to the year 1958-59 when the Burns Lake congregation was established. Work centered in three areas at the time, Vanderho-of, Andako and Bums Lake. The lat­ ter place is where the church was built. In 1968 interest was aroused in a new fast developing town west of Burns Lake, Houston. For years also, as more EMC families made migration to southern B.C. there has been speculation about beginning a work in the Fraser Valley. Believing that we owe our readers a report of what is happening there now, I went to Mr. Bien Friesen, chairman of the Canada Committee, who are the overseers of this work to see what he could tell me about the latest developments. What follows concerns three of the places mentioned above, Houston, Vander hoof and Clearbrook.

HOUSTON • The Walter Reimers, Fisher Branch, who are accepted EMC missionary candidates have been living hene since Sept. 1, 1969. Walter is a teach­ er, but since he was not able to get a school this year he is working on a planer. • The Canada Committee together with the Burns Lake church is spearheading the work. So far this has consisted only of purchasing a lot to build a future church. • Present plans call for three young couples to move to Houston (work is plentiful) and help with the establishing of a church (Who will go?)

VANDERHOOF • A call came from this area late in 1968, to es­ tablish a church, moved the Canada Committee to investigate. After personal visits with the group requesting help and other consultations it was decided to start. • In July of this year a minister family, the John Harms from Kola, moved to Vanderhoof to be­ gin the work. • They are worshipping in an unused church building seating some 100 persons. Some 50 people in atten&nce. • The group supplies the pastor’s residence. • Latest reports have it that the group has grown to about 70. CLEARBROOK • Open doors for beginning a work presented themselves this past summer after the B. D. Rei­ mers, returned missionaries from Paraguay, visit^ the area. • A house of worship has been purchased at a fraction of the cost.

• Somie six couples declared themselves willing to worship here. (As a beginning). These cou­

ples are all from the area. • The B. D. Reimers moved to Clearbrook on November 18 to begin the work. • We acknowledge the following people who offered their services and trucks (four ve­ hicles) to assist in the move. Reynold Penner and Walter Penner from Landmark, P. R. Barkman and Jacob Plett from Blumenort. December 5, 1969

THE ANABAPTISTS Continued from page 3 3) obedience ...................................................... to the “ Word■ 4) unfeigned brotherly love 5) unreserved confession of God and Christ 6) oppression and tribulation for the sake of God’s word. The Anabaptists could impossibly accept the idea of a provincial church which includ^ the whole population, firstly, because this entailed in­ fant baptism which they opposed. Secondly, they considered the church as a body of believers who had by their free will, made an intielligent commit­ ment to Christ and who had been baptized upon confession of their faith. The high view of the church caused them to observe church discipline to keep the church pure. If an offender continues in sin despite earnest coun­ selling and prayer, the church must act (Rom. 16:7; Titus 3:11; I Cor. 5:13). Menno Simons made it clear that church discipline did not apply to every kind of sin, only open sin. For the Anabaptists, the church had a very high calling. It was thought of as a corporate body achiev­ ing God’s will for society. Conclusion The Anabaptists have left a very high ideal for their descendents. Their unshakeable faith in Christ was evidenced by their discipleship and the results of discipleship. Their biblicism led to the formation of doctrines, some of which are still in effect today, more than 400 years later. In view of their anscestry, Mennonites of our day have every reason to examine their heritage and to re-examine their present situation in the light of scripture, as well as in the light of their heritage. FOOTNOTES 1) Guy F. Hershberger. The Recovery of the Aanabaptist Vision. (Scottdale; Herald Press, 1957), p. 136. 2) Hershberger, p. 148. 3) John C. Wenger, The Doctrines of the Mennonites (Scott­ dale; Mennonite Publishing House, 1952), p. ? 4) John C. Wenger, The Doctrines of the Mennonites (Scott­ dale; Mennonite Publishing House, 1952), p. 26 5) Guy F. Hershberger, The Recovery of the Anabaptist Vision (Scottdale; Herald Press, 1957), p. 160 6) Menno Sauder, The Christian Faith (Canada; 1954) p. 39 7) H. S. Bender, (ed.),The Mennonite Encyciopedia (Scott­ dale; Mennonite Publishing House, 1957, III, p. 712 8) Menno Simons, The Complete Writings of Menno Simons, Biography by H. S. Bender, (Scottdale; Herald Press, 1956), p. 8 9) Ibid., p. 8 10) Mennonite Encyclopedia, I, p. 224 11) Harold S. Bender. Conrad Grebe,I (Scottdale; Herald Press, 1950), p. 207 12) Abraham P. Toews, The Problem of Mennonite Ethics (Grand Rapids; Wm. B. Erdmans Pub. Oo., 1963), p. 153 13) Menno Simons, p. 417 14) Toews, p. 230 15) Ibid., p. 230

16) Mennonite Encyclopedia, in, p, 898

17) Wenger, p. 40 18) Wenger, p. 40 19) Ibid., p. 34 20) J. A. Toews, True Nonresistance Through Christ (Win­ nipeg; The Christian Press, Ltd., 1955), p. 62 21) Bender, p. 179 22) Ibid., p. 179 23) J. A, Toews, p, 63 24) Hershberger, p. 120 25) Harold S, Bender, Conrad Grebel, (Scottdale; Herald Press, 1950), p.

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The Student And His

Home Church The question of student-church relationship has lived in my mind for the last four years while I have held the status of a “post-second­ ary student”. I believe it is a very important question, and therefore, am thankful that our Board of Ed­ ucation planned this fellowship evening. I have been given this op­ portunity to share my views on the subject with you. Firstly, I believe we students must stop and consider how we related of our home church before we began our post-secondary train­ ing. Did we respect our pastor and other church leaders? Was our re­ lationship to them warm and friendly? Did we have confidence in their counsel when we were faced with special problems? Did others have confidence in us as Christians, or were we their con­ stant concern because of our lack of dedication to Christ? How much effort did we make to serve God through our home church? When each one of us answers these questions for ourselves, we may find that our present relation­ ship to the church is strangely based on our previous one. Secondly, students, our purpose for studying can be an important influencing factor. If our purposes and goals are worthy and honour­ able, and We are assured that we are fulfilling God’s design for our lives, our warm bond of fellowship with our home church need not be broken. Should misunderstandings arise, we must do our part to classi­ fy them by communicating to the church our “calling”. Another factor that may influ­ ence student-church relationship is “The student and the Home Church”, is one of the papers presented at the recentEMC Student-Minister Feliowship. Miss Loewen is studying at the Univer­ sity of Winnipeg.

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the distance between our church and school. Single students who are living with their parents while studying, and married students who have tentatively made their home in the proximity of their school will probably already have decided in which they want to worship and work during their school term. Those of us students who do not live in the city may find that our relationship to our home church is partly dependent upon how regularly we attend it. If we go home for all our week­ ends, well probably worship in the same church we did before school started whereas, if we spend most of our Sundays in the city, we may need to find a new “home church”. I trust we’ll find an E.M.C. church to worship in, for don’t we want to be true to our conference? After having chosen the church, we’ll need to decide whether or not to transfer our membership there, for the time span in which we’ll

be studying. May I suggest that we

talk it over with our pastors, and should we decide to keep our pre­ sent membership but fellowship elsewhere, that we also talk to our new pastor about it? Both of them have a right to know what we’re doing, for are not they the ones who keep watch ever our souls, as men who will have to give ac­ count? (Heb. 13:17).

Once the matter of “home church” is clarified, w.s students must decide upon our church in­ volvement. Will we attend only the Sunday Morning worship servioe? Attend Bible Studies and Prayer Meetings? Meet with the brother­ hood? Help in the church’s organ­ ized evangelistic outreach? Here the element of time is crucial, for getting an education often means five or six twelve-hour-or-so days a week. Therefore, extensive church

involvement may prove impossible. However, can we as Christian stu­ dents, led by the Holy Spirit, not make each day count for God where are we? The campus is a mission field. Let us there live Christ! We are the best outreach the church has into this particular field — both in evangelization and edification of fellow-students. Now permit me to say a few things to our ministers, since this was also a part of my assignment. What does the student expect from the ministers? (1) That you’ll show an interest in our activities. (2) That you’ll encourage us in our studies so that we may do them “as unto the Lord”. (3) That you’ll visit the various centres of education where your church members are stu­ dying, and thus gain some first­ hand information on where we are, whom we associate with, and what kind if atmosphere we live in five days a week. You might be quite surprised! (4) That you’ll show forth in us as Christians, and challenge us to “live Christ” where and while we study. (5) That you’ll pray for us, so that we may not subtly be led astray or become weak in our faith in God. (6) That you’ll offer us your coun­ sel and help. Although you may not have a ready answer for all our “intellectual” ques­ tions, We do consider you our spiritual leaders. Are you doing your part to keep qualified to meet the needs of your stu­ dents? In ooncluson, as regards student­ church relationship, I say: We students equal the church! If we suffer spiritually, the church suffers. If we mature as Christians, the church matures. If we go astray, the church loses a member. If we serve God where we are, the church has an added out­ reach! Students, let’s keep our relation­ ship to the church clear, and then use our education for more effec­ tive service to God through the church. Merna Loewen

THE MESSENGER

THE LIFE OF AN "M.K."

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The three young people featured on this page are the daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Eidse, Congo. Since the Eidses are back on the field again the girls are continuing their schooling in the American School at Kinshasa, capital of the Republic of Congo. Thus they are away from their parents (550 miles) for the greater part of the year. In the letters on this page the girls are writing to their Grandma, Mrs. P. D. Reimer in Steinbach. Since most of our readers may not have heard of Charity’s recent brush with death we let this letter appear first. As we read, may we also be encouraged to continue stead­ fastly in prayers and intercessions fonr our missionaries and their families. Ed.

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Near Fatality

Sees Astronauts

Charity 13

Faith 14

November 1, 1969 B.P. 4081 Kinshasa II, Congo

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Dear Grandma: Hi! Thanks a lot for the letter and birthday card you sent me. The birthday card was real cute. Maybe you wonder why I’m print­ ing. Well, three weeks ago, Satur­ day, I was plugging in a record player and I stepped off the cu­ shion I had been standing on. It was raining outside and I was barefoot. The plug-in came apart and I got a terrible electric shock and a burn. Becky Zook was there and she’s terribly quick-witted. She yanked at the cord I was fro­ zen to but I was frozen onto it too tight and it didn’t come out of my hand. She yanked terribly hard and finally it came out of my hand. By that time I had gotten a third de­ gree burn. If I had been holding onto it with both hands I would have been killed almost instantly. If I would have been frozen to it just a few seconds longer I would have been killed also. The doctors have told me over and over again how lucky I am to be alive. I know that God saved me because He has a plan for my life. From now bh with His help I’m going to follow Him mone closely. Say Hi to everyone from me. O.K.? Love, Charity

December 5, 1969

Dear Grandma, Hi! I really miss Canada some­ times and right now I wish I were back in Steinbach again. I miss the snow and tbs cool weather. We saw the astronauts a few weeks ago. I was close enough to shake their hands but it wasn’t allowed. Yesterday there was a pot-luck supper at our church. Everyone brought food to share with every­ one dlse and after that we had a program. It was a lot of fun. Things like baptism and com­ munion aren’t anything like in Steinbach, though. But there are so many different denominations that they just shake hands when they baptise. I like the school here a lot be­ cause the kids all seem to have a lot of school spirit and everyone else like oild friends. Love, Faith African Adventure

Hope 16

Dear Grandma, We sure miss you and really look forward to your letters. I’m

sure you don’t mind not having to make an extra big Sunday din­ ner with us gone. This summer Faith and I start­ ed out on our 3rd long bike trip. This time 130 miles — to Kajiji. We left home at 3:30 a.m. It was so dark we rould hardly keep from tipping in the sand, even with flashlights. We reached the state post, (Kahemba) an hour later, it was just as dark but I turned off the flashlight anyway so that we wouldn’t be noticed by the sold­ iers, who sometimes have a little too much to drink. It was no use, they had already heard us and began shouting at us to come to their fire so they could see who We were. I just kept peddling all the faster which was the wrong thing to do. They were furious at us for not obeying orders but at last they calmed down and let us go again. At 12:30 noon we reached Kajiji. After a real good dinner we picked up the mail, (that was the main reason for coming) and at 3:00 we started back. We made good time the first 20 miles but just before we reached the ferry crossing our escort’s bike went kaput. We walked till the river and were just in time for the last crossing before nightfall. We tra­ velled the next 4 miles in wind, thunder, and lightening — but lit­ tle rain. By that time it was dark and walking seemed much too slow. So the orphan who had gone with us tied his old bike onto mine and I pulled him for awhile. That went quite a bit faster but the rope kept breaking. Ths third time it broke the wreck started peddling again. We spent that night at the Honey post. The next morning we started out at 3:30 a.m. again and got home just in time for break­ fast at 8:30 a.m. November 16 It’s been quite some time since we wrote that first letter to you. I found out later that I still had one picture to take. I didn’t find anything worth taking a picture of until the moon astronauts came through here a few weeks ago. It just so happened that as we were crowding into the car which was to take us to ses these important men, I got bumped and my precious picture snapped. I wish I knew the moral of that sad tale. Love, Hope,

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by Elsie Milligan SIMBA GOES ON TREK “MAMA, LOOK AT SIMBA,” said Samba one afternoon soon af­ ter she and Chamola had returned to the village. Their mother went to the door of the hut and looked out. There was Simba coming, just arriving back from school, he had to stay laber than Samba now that he had been moved up to the Sen­ ior School. Samba and her mother watched Simba cross the village with evleveryone shouting at him: “Ha! Ha! Simba, how smart you look!” And indeed, Simba felt smart, for was he not wearing his new school uniform for the first time! Khaki shorts and singlet with red stripes down the side of the shorts and round the neck and sleeves of the singlet. Simba was quite a tall boy now, and certainly he looked very hand­ some in his smart uniform. His mother felt a glow of pride in him as he arrived now at the hut, and so did Samba. “Is this my big brother or who?” teased Samba. “I wouldn’t have known you. My! you do look smart!” Simba’s friends gathered round now to examine his school-clothes more closely. They explored his pockets and admired the buttons on the singlet shoulders. But to have this smart uniform was not the only reason why Simba was glad to have moved up into the Senior School. Now he would learn to read and speak English, and other interesting subjects.

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One day the School-Ndona sent for him, so he went bo her house. “Ah, Simba,” she said, “how would you like to go on trek’ with me during the dry-season holidays. I hope to gO' and visit some of the distant people to tell ‘the Words of God’ to the people. How would you like bo come with me as my cycle-boy, just to run with my bicycle and take charge of it when I am not able to ride it? Do you think you could do that?” “Oh, yes, Ndona,” said Simba. “I would love to come if my fa­ ther will let me.” “Very well, you ask him and let me know in good time before the end of this berm.” On his return from school that day Simba told Samba about the Ndona’s suggestion. “Oh, aren’t you lucky!” said Samba. “You will have a lovely time travelling in far country and seeing many new people. How I wish that I could come too!” she added. “Tata,” said Simba, when his father came home, “the Ndona has asked me to be her cycle-boy when she goes ‘on trek’ in the next holi­ days. Please may I go with her?” His father looked at him. Yes, he was a well-grown lad now. It would probaWy do him a lot of good to travel and see other vil­ lages and people. “Will the Ndona pay you?” asked his father. “Oh, yes, Tata. I shall get the usual pay for a cycle-boy, but the Ndona said she wanted a school­ boy with her who could read and

write, and she chose me.” “Do you want to go?” asked his father, “and how long will you be away?” “One whole moon, Tata,” said Simba, “and I should like to go very, very much.” “Very well, you may,” said his father, “but when you come back you must spend the rest of your holiday helping me make a new ‘ntema’ (field). I shall need your help with that.” “Yes, Tata, I will work very hard when I come back.” When the term ended the Ndona told Simba: “Come on the third day, very early in the morning, for that is the day that we ‘rise up’ (start) on our trek.” The first glimmer of dawn was visible in the sky as Simba climbed the hill to the Mission the third day. He was very excited. It was a great adventure for him bo go on this trek with the Ndona and her carriers. What fun it would be to sleep out in the forest by a big camp-fire, to cross strange rivers, and to see far-off villages! When he got to the Ndona’s house at the Mission the carriers were already there tying up their loads, the tent load, the bed-roll, the food-box, the camp-chair and table load, and the “mutona” (long native basket containing the pots and pans and other kitchen things). Rations were given out for three days. Simba tied his up together with the little cooking-pot his mo­ ther had given him. He rolled these inside the new sleeping-mat which Samba had weaved especially for him. He slung this roll over his shoulder so that both of his hands would be free to take the Ndona’s bicycle when necessary. The village cocks were crowing as the carriers set off down the hill in single file, each man with his load on his head or shoulder. After the load-men came the Ndona with her bicycle and Simba, then, last of all, her hammock and four hammock-men, for the Ndona to travel in during the heat of the day or across impassable places such as swamps. At the foot of the hill the path turned sharply to the east, away it went, winding in and out of the forest trees and across the big plains, away to the villages on the far side of the Zambesi River. THE MESSENGER

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I V

4

I

It was nice and cool in the first freshness of the early morning. The dew sparkled 'on the tips of the long grass like diamonds, and glit­ tered on the great spider’s webs which hung in festoons across the path in pllaces. As Simba ran along the path, his bare feet thudding on the soft earth, he was very happy, he felt it was good to be alive on such a morning, and going “on trek” with the Ndona. Soon, however, the sun popped up over the distant horizon and greeted them with a warm “Good morning”. In a very short time it was too hot to be comfortable. Simba still ran, but not so jaunti­ ly now; the carriers now had to stop from time to time, prop their loads against the nearest tree, and mop the perspiration from their faces. They were all glad when they came to the lunch-camp, a shady spot beside a small river, where they could throw down their loads and nest for an hour. The Ndona ate her lunch under a shady tree, while the men made their “mush” and rested. Simba ran down to the little stream to bathe his hot tired feet in the cool water. Then he walked a little way upstream, and finding some nice, clean, white sand in the river-bed, he cleaned his pearly teeth with it. The afternoon trek was shorter. Simba and the Ndona went ahead and found a nice spot to camp for the night near a village and where there was plenty of water. The village people came running •out to great them. “Shifcenu, shikenu!” (Arrived, arrived!) they said, as they clapped their hands in greeting and wel­ come. Then they watched with in­ terest as the camp was fix.ed. Some of the men cut down some trees and cleared the undergrowth; others pitched the Ndona’s little green canvas tent, while yet others built a little leafy bower to give shade and be a small “sitting­ room” for the Ndona. Two men went off to the river carrying a petrol drum between them on a pole. This they filled with water and carried back to the camp. Tbs sun sets early and suddenly in the Tropics, but by that time the camp was all shipshape. The men made their own little fires and spread their slseping-mats be-

December 5, 1969

tween them so that they would have a fire each side of them dur­ ing the cold night as they slept in the open. Each man brought his share of the logs which were to keep a big fire going in the middle of the camp all night. This was to keep wild animals away, lions, leopards, and hyenas, for these animals are all afraid of fire. Simba slept beside the big fire with three other boys who were in the Ndona’s caravan. They were travelling with their fathers or uncles who were among the Ndona’s carriers, to carry their personal goods for them. The carriers chatted for a while as they lay relaxed on their sleep­ ing-mats, watching the flames of the big camp-fire, and listening to

the pleasant crackle of the burning wood. As they grew sleepy the chatting died away, one by one they said, “Ku ntanda” (Till the morning star), which is the Afri­ can way of saying “Goodnight”. Simba lay contentedly on his mat gazing up at the bright stars, which twinkled in such a friendly way at him from the velvety darkness of the sky above him. This was fun, thought be, even though his legs did ache and his feet were sore. An owl hooted miournfully in a nearby tree, and away in the dis­ tance he could hear a jackal bark­ ing. Soon the snores of the carriers around him were the only sounds that broke the stillness of the Af­ rican night. Now his eyes were drooping, soon he was fast asleep.

BLUMENORT

L. Penner bade farewell to their fami­ lies, boarded the plane, and were off to British Honduras. They arrived in Be­ lize in the morning where the mission­ aries, Henry Klassen and Harvey Plett, were waiting to welcome them and take them to their mission station “The Ca­ rol Farm”. The fellowship with the mis­ sionaries, services, and the native home visitations all left a real impact upon their lives. Then they went to the Mennonite Co­ lony where they visited their relatives and friends. The warm hospitality will always be remembered. At 7:30 a.m. on Nov. 11 Rev. John P. Loewen, joined by Rev. John K. Rei­ mer as had been planned previously, were off to visit other mission stations such as Panama, Nicoragua, (Quito), (Equador), and Paraguay. Mrs. Loewen departed at 5:00 p.m., of the same day, and was heartily welcomed by her fa­ mily the next day, who had been well taken care of during her absence by their aunt Sarah and two cousins, Alice and Ann Friesen. The P. C. L. Penners boarded the plane on Nov. 12 for Mexico. They ar­ rived home safely on Nov. 30 together with their daughter Linda who has serv­ ed under Christian Service in the Quellen Colony Clinic for one year.

Special Meetings Some real highlights for our district were the Deeper Life Services, the Com­ memoration of the Lord’s Supper, and the Missionary Conference held Oct. 26 to Nov. 2. Rev. Henry P. Friesen serv­ ed as guest speaker for the Deeper Life Services and spoke emphatically on topics such as 1) Jonah, a Backslider and his Restoration 2) The Filling of the Holy Spirit 3) Obedience 4) The Love of God 5) Encouragement to Youth. Our missionary guest speakers were Gladwin Plett, speaking on Luke 4: 33-35 “Let us alone” (applying it to non-Christians and to Christians); Eve­ lyn Plett, Psalm 71:16 “I will go in the strength of the Lord . . .; Ernest Funk, Romans 1:14-18 “I am Debtor” Convic­ tions have much to do with our zeal; Lester Olfert, Isaiah 55:1 “. . . every­ one that thirsteth come”; Ben Thies­ sen, Matt. 4:17-19 “. . . Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men”; Est­ her Reimer, H Tim. 3:14-15 “And that from a child thou hast known the holy Scriptures”; and Rev. Ben D. Reimer who spoke on “The Christian and What He Is” a) Alive in Christ b) A sufferer c) A soldier d) A free slave e) A steward and f) A saviour. Our hearts were stir­ red to become more personally involv­ ed in the spiritual welfare of others. Travelling On Nov. 3 at 5:00 p.m. Mr. and Mrs. John P. Loewen and Mr. and Mrs. P. C.

To be continued

Sewing Circles

The Sewing Circle Ladies participat­ ed in a Bake Sale sponsored by the La­ dies Aid in order to raise fimds for the Steinbach Bible Institute. The proceeds were favourable.

9

Some of the projects the various Sew­ ing Circles (the Blumenort district has six) are enthusiastically engaged in knitting mitts, scarves, and socks and sewing pajamas for the Children’s Home in Bad Gandersheim, Germany; making warm quilts for Indians which are chan­ nelled through Mrs. Gaudreau’s hands; making blankets, bandages, layetts, etc. for the M.C.S.; and one group recently sent baby gifts to all Mexico E.M.C. missionaries who had been blessed by a new bundle of joy. Wedding

Miss EHeanor Plett and Mr. Henry Epp from Homewood were united in holy matrimony on Nov. 8. God bless your new home. Senior Choir

'The Senior Choir, directed by John Doerksen, rendered a very worthwhile program '"The Meaning To Life” based on Romans 8: 1-8 on November 9. Moving

'The Peter Barkmans (Rest Haven Administrator) and Bernie Brandt and Harold Fast (with Jake G. Plett’s truck) were the fortunate ones to help move the Rev. Ben D. Reimers to Clearbrook, B. C. Prayer Cell

A bi-monthly prayer cell is formed by a group of sisters for the purpose of spiritual fellowship and be more in­ volved in the ministry of prayer. Prayer Request

Sister Leona Doerksen attending the Ontario Bible College in Toronto, from which she would be graduating this year, suddenly contracted an ailment causing fatigue, headaches, etc. 'The specialist has prescribed an extensive period of rest, therefore she has been imable to attend College for a while and will not be able to further her education this year. She requests our earnest prayers. Guest Speakers

We were deeply stirred by the mes­ sages of our recent guflst speakers Rev. Ben Friesen whose theme was “Do You Care” and Rev. Harvey Plett, who em­ phatically spoke in the different ways people can deny Christ. Thank you.

Wright from Landmark served us with the message. ’Then in the afternoon Bro. Wright spoke again at the baptismal service. Five young people were baptiz­ ed and accepted into the church; Mar­ lene Komelsen, Linda ’Thomas, Rose Lena Dueck, Glen Dueck, and Bert Plett. Deeper Life Services were held from Nov. 10-13. Rev. Jessie Neuenschwander from Litz. Pennsylvania, served as guest speaker. For our Regional Missionary Confe­ rence we had Henry Thiessen, Ben Frie­ sen, Jake Kroeker, Esther Reimer and Lester Olfert as guest speakers. ’The re­ ports and messages were all very chal­ lenging. On Sept. 12 the Willie Duecks receiv­ ed a phone call from Mexico informing them that their father. Rev. Bernhard Dueck, was seriously ill. ’They, together with their family, except for two sons, Raymond and Cornie, departed for Mex­ ico on Sept. 18. ’Their father, having reached the age of 90 years, passed away on Sept. 30. 'The funeral service was held on Oct. 2. 'The Willie Duecks then left Mexico for home on Oct. 7 and arrived here at 2:30 a.m. on Oct. 12. We are grateful that God granted them a safe and merciful jounrey. Our choir rendered a program on Oct. 19 in the Stoney Mountain Penitentiary Farm Annex. Then on Nov. 16 they ren. dered another program in the prison it­ self. 'The choir was well received. Bom to Mr. and Mrs. Menno Penner on Nov. 9, is a son Michael Dean. ABERDEEN CHURCH, WINNIPEG Sunday Evening Service

Our group has decided to have an in­ formal service the last Sunday of each month with one of the couples from the congregation as “hosts”. Since our membership is quite scattered we are hoping that this time of fellowship will promote acquaintance and Christian concern for each other and consequent­ ly for the lost people around us. Alice and Linda Doerksen were host­ esses at our October meeting. 'They had invited Rev, Harry Flumbaum of the

Association of Jewish Evangelism to take us to the Holy Land via slides ta­ ken on his recent trip; he also gave a challenging message. A time of sharing over coffee and cookies, served in the church basement, brought the evening to a close. Guest Speakers

Rev. and Mrs. John Koop of the Mac Gregor E. M. C. were with us for com­ munion service November 9; Rev. Koop directed our thoughts inward and up­ ward in his message. Rev. and Mrs. Harold Dueck and fa­ mily from the Crestview E M. C. wor­ shipped with us Sunday, Nov. 23. Rev. Dueck brought the morning message. Mrs. Con Durston presented the work of Child Evangelism Fellowship at our November Ladies’ Mission Group meet­ ing. She showed some of the visial aids available and spoke of the club she conducted in their home with the help of her two and three year old children! Congratulations and the Lord’s bles­ sing to Victor and Valida Friesen on the birth of a baby girl, Bonnie Jocelyn, November 7. ENDEAVOUR

On Oct. 15 the Women's Fellowship met at the home of Mrs. Elsie Kobe. Work on the quilt blocks continued. Our annual Fellowship Supper was held in the church basement on Oct. 24 with approximately 200 present. 'The service that followed was highlight­ ed by the film "'The Heart is a Rebel”. Choir practice continues each Sunday evening. On Oct. 31 the Sturgis young people were invited and presented a skit. Despite a few flat tires, every­ one had a good time. Dennis 'Thiessen spoke at our morn­ ing service on The Christian Life on Simday, (Nov. 2. We are also enjoying the comfortable warmth in the church from the newly installed furnace. Sunday, Nov. 9 we began a series of services with Rev. Frank D. Reimer as g;u.est speaker. On Sunday evening it was our turn to take the Hostel Service at Preeceville again.

Building

A new church building is being built in Stratton. Bro. Peter R. Brandt with four other passengers motored down on Nov. 17 to help shingle the roof etc.

A Christmas program to be presented by the

MORWEENA

Steinbach Bible Institute

Sunday morning, Oct, 26 Rev. P. K. Bartel from Kleefeld served as guest speaker. He spoke on the Second Com­ ing of Christ as recorded in Matthew 24:1-4 and Luke 21:25-33. Sunday morning, Nov. 9. Rev. Edwin

10

CHRIST'S TWO ADVENTS

DEC. 12. 7:30 P.M. SPEAKER: REV. B. W. SAWATZKY Program consists of musical numbers and reading

'THE MESSENGER

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The Women’s Fellowship met at Mrs. Hazel Scharfenberg’s home on Wed. Nov. 12. Visitors from Arrabella shared oui last service with Mr. Reimer on Friday, Nov. 14. Truly it was a worthwhile ef­ fort and many were blessed. Friday, Nov. 12 the young people en­ joyed a skating party on a small lake, after which about 50 gathered at the home of Pete Steppan for lunch. I>espite a few bumps everyone had had a wonderful time. HUDSON BAY

On Thanksgiving Day, October 13, Bill and Dennis Reimer left for the Plett and Martens Camp north of The Pas, They are missed in the church here. Our pastor and his wife attended the Field Council Meeting and Institute on Evangelism held at Kamsack October 13 and 14. They took this opportunity to visit parents and relatives in Mani­ toba, especially Lilly’s sister Esther, who had just returned from two years of service in Germany. We are happy to see Kimberly, 3 year old daughter of Dan and Mavis Loewen, much improved after her kidney infec­ tion in October. She was hospitalized for almost 2 weeks. Our first Young Peoples Meeting of the season was held October 24. Let us pray that more young people might be drawn to the Lord through this channel. ’The Ladies Mission Group held its organizational meeting on October 30 at the home of Mrs. Elmer Plett. November 2 the Pineridge Fellowship brought a service at the Pioneer Lodge. The various churches in town take turns bringing these services. On Friday, November 7, our Chapel had a Fellowship supper followed by a short informal program. Welcome visitors during the beginn­ ing of November were: Mr. and Mrs. Abe Reimer and Rev. F. D. Reimer of Landmark; and Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Rei­ mer. Esther and Betty of Fisher Branch. ’Thank you for taking time from your busy schedule at Endeavour to come and see us. Get well wishes go out to one of our faithful members, Mr. John Horocholyn who suffered a severe heart attack on Monday, November 17. He is resting in the complete assurance of salvation in Christ. What a blessed hope for belie­ vers. On Friday, Nov. 21, United Young Peoples was held at Porcupine Plain. Pastor Edwin Friesen brought the mes­ sage.

December 5, 1969

xi£r

.1-■

• The largest all-black denomination in the United States, the 6.3-million-member National Baptist Convention, U. S. A., Inc., denounced black militancy as leading to a "disastrously" divided nation. In a series of resolutions the 14,000 delegates disavowed the “doctrine of separatism”, criticized the methods of James Forman and called the demands of the Black Manifesto a form of dictatorship. Dr. Joseph J. Jackson, pastor of Olivet Baptist Church, Chicago, was reelected president by acclamation. has led the convention for the past seventeen years.” • The St. Paul Bible Collage, a Christian Missionary Alliance School in St. Paul, Minnesota, has purchased the Campus of the Jesuit Collge near Mound, Minn., built just nine years ago at a cost of over four million and of top quality construction. The Unit could not be duplicated today for less than ten million, according to an architectual consultant. St. Paul will iget the entire Campus inluding furnishings and equipment, for $3.1 million dollars. Th© facility, locat­ ed approximately thirty miles west of downtown Minneapolis, consists of a main building on 120 acres of rollimg land bordering a small lake. The building, 600 feet by 500 feet and constructed of mankato stone, can accommodate a student body of about 400, including dormitory and dining rooms, classrooms, library, chapel, and administrative offices.

•

Mennonite Broadcasts Incorporated Harrisonburg, Virginia, in a letter to its constituency, disclosed a serious shortage of funds. This has resulted in a sub­ stantial cutback in programs. Reasons given For this cutback are inflationary costs of programming and living.

• Mcnnonite Central Committee (Canada) will hold its sixth annual meeting in Virgil, Ontario January 16-18. A special program commemorating the inter­ national MCC’s 50th anniversary will be held Sunday evening, January 18.

Some 600 people crowded into the Portage Avenue MB church on ,Nov. 1 for the annual banquet of the Union Gospel Mission. Guest speaker for the even­ ing was R ev. John R. Barkman, of the Grace Children's Home, Henderson, Nebraska. Reports indicated that about 25000 men attended the Union Gospel Mission the past year. Some 8000 meals were served to men coming off the street. The repoirt also stated that about 1500 received beds for the night and that thousands of articles of clothing were distributed. In addition to this the Good News Center (Women’s and children’s work at 158 Aikens St. in North Kildonan) saw some 2000 women and 6000 children attending over the past year. Arthhr B. Janz, formerly with Congo Inland Mission in Africa will share res­ ponsibilities in the CIM headquarters office at Elkhart, Ind., beginning Janu­ ary 1, 1970.

The Mennonite Disaster Service office has received a letter from Mills E. Good­ win, Jr. governor of Virginia. It thanked the disaster organization for the ser­ vices rendered by the Mennonite people during the disastrous flooding of the James River Basin Area. The letter reads in part: "I am especially appreciative of the prompt res­ ponse to the needs of our people by your volunteers who arrived on the scene, completely organized and ready to function in the cleanup phase. “This humane effort on the part of your membership helped to minimize the hardship and suffering of our citizens durinig a natural disaster such as this Commonwealth has never before experienced.” "Soldiers of Compassion” by Urie Bender, an overview of Pax, its workers and the countries in which they have served, was recently released by Herald Press. Through the use of activity reports, interviews and letters. Bender pre­ sents the story of Pax — young men going out to serve in places where igno­ rance, oppression and greed had chilled the spirit and crushed hope. Pax, a Latin word meaning Peace, is an overseas program which MCC began in 1951 to help assist refugees in Germany in rebuilding homes and es­ tablish normal living patterns. Since that first group of 28 fellows, the Pax program has sent nearly 700 men into various work situations in Europe, Asia and Sosth America. The book has an insert of 24 pages of pictures of Paxmen in different countries and also includes in the appendices a list of all Paxmen who have served from 1951 to 1968.

11

PRAIRIE ROSE Miss Evelyn Plett Commissioned

At our November deeper life services Rev. B. D. Reimer as in past years challenged and dared us to go all out for Christ. An interesting part of the services was the answering of various questions. Many were startled at the na­ ture of the questions that were submit­ ted, and dealt with. A well planned weekend was dedicat­ ed for the mission’s conference, with many missionaries and committee re­ presentatives attending, to inform us of past blessings and experiences, and present pressing needs. It was good to hear and see of the work that had been done, and yet heart rending realizing that so much was still undone. Of inte­ rest was the pictorial report of Badgandersheim, Germany, by Miss Esther Reimer (formerly cf Prairie Bose). Rev. John K. Reimer presented some deep thought provoking messages, especially the last evening when he spoke on “Labourers together with God”. To con­ clude a missionary conference with a commissioning service is really encouraging and solemn. The tone of the evening was given by the choir when they sang “When He Calls Me I Will Answer” or the congregation singing “It Must Be Told”. The song “God is still on the Throne” was dedicated to our outgoing missionary Miss Evelyn Plett, by the choir. Rev. F. D. Reimer offered the dedication prayer. It was a solemn yet very happy occasion. The parents P. P. Pletts, Rev. F. D. Reimer and others were at the Winni­ peg International Airport to see Miss Plett leave for Spain, November 4 as scheduled.

vested (at the time of writing) though it had to be done in bone chilling wea­ ther and gratitude is voiced for the returns received from fields that had been “written off”. RIVERTON CHAPEL

November 2-9, Rev. Curt Bork, a Shantyman missionary from Vermillion Bay, Ontario, ministered to us during a week of evening services. In addition to a film every night we also had some special numbers. We wish to thank Mr. and Mrs. Frank Schultz from Land­ mark who came out two evenings to sing to us. We were also happy bo have Rev. and Mrs. Edwin Wright with us on the concluding Sunday night of the meetings. May we all endeavour anew to walk as “children of the light” as a result of these meetings. A very tragic accident occured in Ri­ verton on the night of Nov. 6. Dennis Hartnell, 32, a Manitoba Telephone em­ ployee from Arborg, met his Creator, when his truck swerved against a brid­ ge railing, plunged into the Icelandic River and sank. The Missionary Conference was held in cur chapel on Nov. 21-23. Reports and messages of the Lord’s work in dif­ ferent parts of the world were given by Miss Esther Reimer, Lester Olferts, Jake Kroeker, Ben Thiessen, and Glad­ win Plett. We trust that as a result of this conference we will support and pray more faithfully for our mission­ aries. PLEASANT VALLEY Graduation

Among the students who graduated with grade 12 standing, at the Rosen ort Collegiate on October 18, were Nor-

ma Komelsen (C.U.K.) and Laura Loe­ wen (D.L.L.) Missionary Conference

Our deeper life meetings, October 2023 proved to be a fine preparation for the missionary conference which follow­ ed. Gladwin Plett was speaker at the deeper life meetings. He discussed seven virtues which should be found in Chris­ tians, basing his messages on n Peter 1:5 ff. ’The reports and messages by diffe­ rent missionaries were challenging. We even had reports from our own mem­ bers such as Mr. C. F. Dueck, Kamsack. Jake and Joyce Comelsen reported on the work they had done in Pelly. The Comelsens are back in our midst now though. We also had reports from our extension areas. Columbine and Opawaka. Choir

The choir has been fairly active ilT its outreach. On October 30 they ren­ dered a program at the Union Gospel Mission in Winnipeg. On November 13 they presented the program “How Great Thou Art” at the Roseau River Indian Reserve where the Dave Rempels are serving. Liz Loewen, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. D. L. Loewen, has safely returned from her trip abroad. It included an interest­ ing tour of the Holy Land plus several countries in Europe. John Reimer (J.P. D.R.) has returned from Spanish Hondurras where he worked under MDS for over a month. Our sympathies go out to Mr. and Mrs. John L. Loewen, Mr. and Mrs. Nick Eidse, and Mr. and Mrs. Dave Eidse whose mother, Mrs. D. K. Eidse. passed away November 15. The funeral was held November 19.

Thanksgiving

Yes we did have a thanksgiving ser­ vice this fall inspite of soaked grain fields waiting to be harvested. Rev. Wright, (now enjoying? a years fur­ lough in our midst) spoke or “We Know”, that evening which really lifted us up to thanksgiving. He referred to the facts that “we know” that our Re­ deemer liveth, . “we know” whom we have believed - “we know” of a build­ ing not made with hands, - “we know” that when He shall appear we shall be like Him - and “we know” that His grace is sufficient for us. Rev. Gladwin Plett referred to the fact that we too often like the nine le­ pers forget to give thanks. Where are the 364 days where we should give thanks he asked. Helping us to remember he sighted many incidents and occasions that should move us to gratefulness. Even the soggy fields have been har-

Page 12

THE MESSENGER

MCC PROJECT OF THE MONTH — DECEMBER BAR SOAP 45 tons of bar soap are needed for distribution in Bolivia, Burundi, Congo, Haiti, Honduras, Hong Kong, India, Korea, Taiwan and Tanzania. All brands of soap can be used. In some countries, used bars of soap are acceptable. To facilitate handling of the soap at the various centers, leave the soap in its original wrapper and place the used soap in small plastic bags. Be sure the used soap is complebely dry before placing it in the plastic bags. 'J

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NVH HOD3HnO!5 N3a T3dR3H