The Messenger January 2, 1970

JAN. 2. 1970 VOL. 8, NO; 1

EVANGELICAL HENNONITE

CONFERENCE

Keopers lew Year

Who Shall Evangelize (IV) In this concluding article on evangelizing we would like to present three different methods of evangelizing. We trust they will prove helpful to you. According to a survey conducted by Nelson Kaufman the main reasons for a lack of sharing our faith and witnessing are 1) I do not know how, 2) I am afraid, 3) I do not know enough, 4) I am not good enough. Out of a survey of 703 persons he got the following answers. Do Not Know How 274 I Am Afraid 174 Do Not Know Enough 107 Not Good Enough 124 From the above diagnosis we can see where the trouble lies. I would not be surprised if the survey would come out very much the same in our circles. “During-the-W'Sek” Witnessing To help people share their faith and present a meaningful witness, Mr. Kaufman has prepared a small booklet called, “During-the-Week Witness­ ing”! It is a plan or guide, for study and action. It combines study, prayer, action and reflection. It goes beyond the mere “discussion of a portion of scripture and everybody goes home for another week.” The coursie focuses on carrying out an as­ signment during the week. This is the reason for the name. The emphasis is on witnessing to “your world”. Each one of us has a small “world” in which we move day by day. Your assignment is to witness to that world. During the course of the evening, after the Bible study, there is a short time called, “Planning During-the-Week Action”. Here there are some possible questions that may be asked of the con­ tact we plan to have during the week. Knowing the questions you want to ask will relieve you of tension. It will in a measure help you with your, “Don’t know how” problem. Since the questions are thought through, they will also be of the meaningful type, drawing out your con­ tact. This could then well result in fruitful dis­ cussion, opening the way for further contacts. This course was given in the Steinbach EM church and resulted in more than one person ex­ pressing the help they had received from it. I believe one of our basic weaknesses is that we must, or think we must, always do all the talking. Someone said that for every person who wants to listen there are ten who want to talk!

This course emphasizes listening and asking ques­ tions. But can we not so best find the need of the person? And then seek to meet the need! Door to Door Surveys Another method which has been used is to use a pre-determined set of questions in a door-to-door survey or canvass. I think the Crestview church would forgive me for using their name here. They have used this method about which they were quite enthused. They take an area close to the church and go from home to home. They knock on the door and introduce themselves as from the Crestview Fellow­ ship church.2 Then they ask for co-operation in an­ swering three questions. The answers thus received are written down right there as the contact is being made. The three questions they ask are the following: 1. What do you think of the church? 2. What do you think of the Bible? 3. What do you think of Jesus Christ? Rev. Koop of the Crestview church relates they have had good response with this method. At no homes have they been turned down. After the third question the caller leaves a piece of literature and seeks to establish a future appointment. Would they like someone to come into their home and study with them about the Lord Jesus Christ? One re­ sponse to this last offer was, “This is just the thing I’ve been waiting for, I’d like to know my Bible better.” Survey material consisting of the Questionnaires and the literature that is left with the contact is produced both on Gestetner and at the printers. They also find that this direct method of literature distribution is definitely more effective than put­ ting it in mail boxes er sending it by mail. I’m sure Mr. Koop would be the first to agree that this is not the only method, in fact he said as much when he stated that, “. . . this is another experiment . . .” But his burden is to seek out better ways of Lgetting the job done. He feels that there it need to simply is a great . „ “go out and find out what works . . They feel that their’s is one method that works. “Nucleus” I would like to refer briefly to one other pro­ gram. It is produced by Christian Outreach.3 They call it Nucleus. It is designed to reach your friends. Next page please News Reporters this Issue:

Mennville, Mrs. Abe Barkman; MacGregor, Mrs. George Rodgers; Arden, Mrs. Norman Rempel; Kamsack, Mrs. C. F. Dueck; Rosenort Fellowship, Rev. P. J. B. Reimer; Mafeking, Mrs. Jake Warkentin.

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 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 editon 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 subscriptions should be mailed to the above address.

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THE MESSENGER

neighbors, business associates, etc. People with whom you would like to establish contact but so far you have had no plan. The basic premise of this program is non­ sectarian, non-directive and inductive. Each person is given absolute freedom to develop his own re­ sources and concepts. The four faces of Nucleus are. Recreational, Educational, Cultural and Spiritual. The whole pro­ gram comes in notebook form. The initial parts are supplied by the host. One set consists of four parts (Good for four sessions). One part is hand^ to each guest. The session, which maybe takes one hour is divided into several periods. All the work is done right there at the table without previous preparation. Those who come back for another eve­ ning get the next part when they return and the process is repeated. They do not have to come back. This is left up to each individual. Conclusion We have sought to introduce some possible ways of reaching, our communities, our friends our neighbors for Christ. Certainly there are many other ways. Maybe you have tried something that works. Why not let us know about it. We need more of this sharing. It is also my prayer that these four articles on evangelizing may have produced in us a spark that will be fann^ and will glow and turn to revival fires. Let’s hear from you! —D.S. FOOTNOTES

1 Mennonite Board of Missions and Charities, Elkhart In­ diana 46514 2 Crestview Fellowship Church, 271 Hamilton Ave., Winni­ peg 22. Man. 3 Christian Outreach Inc. Box 115, Huntingdon Valley, Penna. 19006

of the Indians in the city. On November 19 we were appointed to the Indian work in Winnipeg. We ear­ nestly covet your prayers for the following: - guidance of the Holy Spirit in making initial contacts - wisdom to determine the best method of unit­ ing the Indian Christians into spiritual work­ ing force - a suitable home and a place to hold services - financial support. Box 895 Leo and Leona Thiessen Virden, Man. THANK YOU NOTE Dear Sir: “Ye also helping together by prayer for us, that for the gift bestowed upon us by the means of many persons, thanks may be given by many on our behalf For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our con­ science that in simplicity and godly sincerity not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God. We have had our conversation in the world and more abundantly to you-ward.” II Corinthians 1:11, 12. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the dear brothers and sisters in Jesus Christ of Mennville, Morweena, Fisher Branch, Gimli Gospel Chapel, for their kind and loving donations of love to us, after we had the misfortune of having eleven animals struck by lightening this summer. Also to the kind brother who was visiting from Mexico for his donation. We want to thank you all for the donation and the great love and kindness you have shown to us. It was all greatly appreciated. May God bless each one of you. With much love in Christ, Mr. and Mrs. August Singbeil & Rudy Fraserwood, Man. MISSES CHURCH

Letters ENTER INDIAN WORK

. . And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?” (Rom. 10:14) Many of you have been inquiring about the result of the burden the Lord has placed upon us for the Indian people. We are happy to report that the Lord is working out His will for us. We have been accepted as missionaries to the Indian people by the Christian and Missionary Alliance as of October 1. My first assignment was to conduct surveys on Indian and Metis population in various centres. Approximately 17,000 Indian and Metis people reside in Winnipeg at present. There is no mission or Church program that meets the total spiritual need of the Indian family. The existing missions are of the Rescue Mission type. I interviewed numerous Indian Christians who informed me they have no church home. The Lord has been directing toward the or­ ganization of an Indian church geared to the need January 2, 1970

Dear Sir, I am enclosing a little Poem from our daughter Christine, maybe, you could have it in The Messen­ ger for Christmas. We lived for 7 years on the farm in MacGregor, Manitoba. Our pastor, Mr. Elmer Hamm of the EMC church is one of the most wonderful and true Christians we have met. We had a great bless­ ing there. Since we are living in Hope, B.C. we miss, especially our now 15 year old Christine, the nice little homely Church in MacGregor. The Christian Spirit is missing so badly these days! Box 1044 Sincerely, Hope, B.C. Mrs. Ortrud Cott THANK YOU Dear Bro. Schellenberg, Just a line to encourage you to write editorials in The Messenger such as appears in the Nov. 21 issue. I always read them with keen interest but this one was tops, on Who Shall Evangelize . . . In Christian love, Kola, Man. John Unger

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ARRIVES IN SPAIN Plaza Cylca 1-9 Zaragoza, Spain December 8, 1969 Cnristmas greetings to you all from Spain! I rejoice that I can share with you some of the things the Lord has done. “As /or God, His way is perfect.” II Sam. 22:31. I thank the Lord for giving me a safe journey without complica­ tions and for supplying my finan­ cial support. Thank you for your prayers. I received a very warm welcome from the missionaries here and so far have not found it difficult to adjust to different hours, food, people and surround­ ings. Perhaps the cold, penetrat­ ing winds here in Zaragoza right now are a little more difficult to get used to, since my trunks with heavier clothing have not yet ar­ rived. However, I’m told that for this time of year, the weather here is very good. The grass and some of the trees are still green. My communication with most people here is very limited as yet, not knowing Spanish. But I am very glad that I am able to attend language school three times a week. With these classes, studies on my own, and the help of my

cheerful companion, Gloria, I hops to learn the language soon. Pray that I may have much patience, a clear mind and be able to concen­ trate. I am very much looking for­ ward to the time when I will be able to speak and teach in Spanish, for I see many opportunities. I praise the Lord, that, while I am studying the language, I have the opportunity of teaching Ann Carman’s English Sunday School class at the American Air Force Base here, while she is on fur­ lough. Right now we are busy practicing a Christmas program. Pray that this opportunity of presienting the true meaning of Christ­ mas to the parents at the Base will bring forth fruit for God’s glory. I am also glad for the op­ portunity of accompanying Gloria to her Spanish Bible Clubs daily. I am sure that at this time you are all very busy getting ready for Christmas. As yet, I don’t know just how I will be spending this, my first Christmas away from home. I am enjoying choir practice with the young people of the Bre­ thren church we attend, as we are practicing for a Christmas Cantata. In His service, Evelyn Plett

men might step out for the Lord. The following poem expresses our desire. The Frank Brauns

PLANT THE WORD We are not expected To germinate the seed — Jesus said to plant it. This world’s a field of need.

God does not expect us To cause the seed to sprout — He just said to plant it. And plant it all about. Jesus never told us To make the seed to grow — He just said to plant it. To plant it where you go.

God does not expect us To make the seed bear fruit —• Jesus said to plant it. And pray that it will root. Jesus does expect us To plant the Gospel seed, Plant it, pliant it, plant it. The world’s in desparate need.

Plant the seed and sow it. Get much seed in the soil. Jesus said the harvest Will compensate the toil. —Wilma Pender graft

Deuteronomy 33:25 SARA ANN WILSON

OAK RIVER INDIAN RESERVE Greetings in Jesus precious Name. After the summer activities we have been busy preaching God’s Word. We have planned evangelistic meetings with Rev. Elmer Reimer from Winner, South Dakota, U.S.A, from January 19 to 25. We have had him as our camp director and speaker for the last five summers. Please pray for these meetings. Instead of holding Good News Clubs this winter for the children, we have been led to hold cottage meetings to try and reach the 4

whole family for the Lord. We have from two to four cottage meetings a week. Our burden is to have the meetings in ths homes of the leading men of the reserve. I have prepared a series of messages the best I know how, to bring be­ fore the people God’s plan of sal­ vation, hell, and future events of prophecy. Some of the Christians are always with us helping in these services. Already some new­ comers are coming to Sunday school because of these meetings. Will you remember to pray, that

“As thy days”—oh, blessed promise! Day by day His strength is mine. Balm for every bitter sorrow, Grace to wait and not repine; Strength to cast my care upon Him, Faith to trust His power divine. “As thy days”-—oh, faithful promise! For His word can never fail, Tho’ my hopes lie, oh, so broken, And my prayer a mournful wail; In His strength I cannot fall. For His promise must prevail.

"As thy days”—oh, wondrous promise! Everlasting, tried and true; May I rise and rest upon it. Finding hope and strength anew; Like the manna day by day Comes His strength to see me through

★ ★ THE MESSENGER

NEW KINDERGARTEN CURRICULUM FOR 1970 BIBLE STORY BOOK GOES TO PRESS Some four years ago Herald Press launched into a thorough revision of its Kindergarten Sunday School curriculum. Since many of our churches wens using Herald Press material we were invited to help with revision work. Through these four years the executive-secretary has attended some four of these meetings. The chairman of the Board of Education (At that time Harvey Kroeker) was at one. The revision is now in the finishing stages and ready to be released in September, 1970. The following statement, which should be of interest to all our superintendents, gives a brief overview of what’s coming in this new curriculum. Ed.

The first piece of new kinder­ garten curriculum for Sunday schools has gone to the press. It is the core piece, God Keeps His Promise, A Bible Story Book for Kindergarten Children. 'The cur­ riculum, published co-operatively by the (Old) Mennonite Church, Scottdale, Pa., and the General Con­ ference Mennonite Church, New­ ton, Kan., is to be ready for use in churches by September, 1970. Bible Story Book Writer of the seventy Bible stories in the 192-page book is Cornelia Lehn, overall editor of the curriculum. A staff member of the Commission on Education since 1959, she has studied Christ­ ian education at Mennonite Bibli­ cal Seminary, Elkhart, Ind., and holds a master’s degree in journa­ lism from the University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa. The biblical material is central in the curriculum. In selecting the stories, therefore, the curriculum developers were concerned that the Bible story book tell the whole story of redemption. They felt that the child had a right to become familiar with the total sweep of Gol’s activity in history. The book, therefore, contains a balance be­ tween Old Testament and New Testament stories (it contains thirty-four of the former and thir­ ty-six of the latter), while at the same time emphasizing that all of them tell one story. Underlying the writing of the Bible story book is a new look at the relationship between child growth and development and the story of God and His people. The Bible stories are chosen and writ­ ten with the assumption that the biblical material must be allowed

January 2, 1970

to speak to the child in such a way that the message is not distorted, while on the other hand, the growth, development, and readi­ ness of the child are not over­ looked. This makes child develop­ ment theory the servant in com­ municating to the kindergarten child God’s activity in history. Put another way, curriculum developers did not say, for in­ stance, “It is important to teach the child kindness. Therefore we will look for a Bible story to illustrate kindness.” Rather they said. “We will tell the Bible story in the language of a kindergarten child without distorting the mes­ sage. Then we will give the child opportunities to respond to the story in his own way and help him to discover the relationship be­ tween the biblical material and his own life. Instead of deciding beforehand what the story is to sav to the child, we will have con­ fidence that the Holy Spirit will sp^ak to the child as He wills.” The book will be the core piece in the curriculum, taking the place of the st'orv leaflets of the curri­ culum used at present by our churches. Because each child will have his own copy, it is hoped the book will be used in the home also.

Teacher Aids Together with the Bible story book will be a set of teacher aids. Outlines of the teachers’ manuals, Bible Lessons for Kindergarten Children (there will be separate books for Year I and Year II), were drafted for four educators, representing both conferences, dur­ ing brainstorming sessions in the summer of 1968. Mary (Mrs. Dick) Rempel of Hesston, Kansas., is the

writer of the lessons in the teach­ ers’ manuals. She has been a pub­ lic school teacher in British Col­ umbia and has written a quarter in the primary Living Faith grad­ ed materials currently in qse. The­ ological interpretations before each unit, written by Helmut Harder of Canadian Mennonite Bible College, Winnipeg, for the teacher, act as a unifying concise guide through biblical history. Also accompanying the Bible story book will be weekly activity papers for each child. Learn for Year I and Think for Year II. All activities — stories, pictures, puzz­ les—are closely related to the les­ sons so that the teachers can use the activities in class. Premium has been put on creative activities on the kindergarten level that will make the child think and learn. For teachers a teacher’s packet will be available. This will include twenty figures of people (e.g. Pharaoh, priest) and animals (e.g. donkey, goat) to help clarify bib­ lical material. These figures are to be used only in the class to clarify concepts and to play the story. Also in the packet will be sixteen teaching pictures other than those illustrating the Bible story, as well as a fold-up Pales­ tinian house. A record of the children’s songs in the curriculum is also envi­ sioned. This will help teachers and parents learn songs they do not know. Parents’ Book A book for parents, which will aid them in understanding the curriculum and what teachers are trying to do in the classroom, is also being planned. This book is written by Paul Lederach, director of curriculum development of Mennonite Publishing House, Scottdale, Pa. Superintendent’s Manual A manual for the Sunday school superintendent to help him help teachers make tbs most of the new curriculum is also to be part of the series. The tentative publishing date of tbs Bible story book is April 4, 1970. The book will bs on sale as part of the curriculum as well as on the open market. All six parts of the curriculum will be ready for use in Sunday school classes by September, 1970.

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A PROGRESS REPORT

MENNONITE HISTORY BOOK

Waterloo — The five-year undertaking by a joint committee of conference and historical society representatives to a history of the Mennonites in Canada is on schedule after its first year.

’Twelve persons from five conferences and the Ontario and Manitoba Histori­ cal Societies attended the joint com­ mittee’s first annual meeting here No­ vember 22.

The project’s editor in chief, Frank H. Epp, reported that the highlight of research progress during the past year was the mastery of the (Jonrad Grebel College archives. The particularly valu­ able finds included documents related to the two world wars and the Mennonites of Ontario in the 19th century. During the past year research focus­ ed on the pre - 1870 phase of Mennonite history, but considerable work was al­ so done on the 1870-1920 period. Edward Dahl, chief research assist­ ant, researched the early presence of Anabaptists in the Maritimes, gathered and photocopied materials in B. C. and went through denominational year­ books.

'The committee devoted some time dis­ cussing the Involvement of additional Mennonite conferences in the project. A representative of the Waterloo-Mark­ ham group indicated that his group would hold a special offering, but they would not designate a specific annual amount for the project.

Of particular concern was the absence of the Mennonite Brethren on the Com­ mittee. ’The committee went on record saying that they “took note of the grow­ ing interest, representation, and finan­ cial support of various Mennonite groups for the project, but expressed deep regret that no visible progress had been made on Mennonite Brethren par­ ticipation.”

’The committee resolved to keep the door fully open for future M. B. involve^ ment. The research and writing project ope­ rated on an income of $7,800 during 1969. For 1970 its budget will be just over $7,000.

Of the amount needed for the coming year, $2,800 is not yet covered by con­ ference commitments. The Ontario re­ presentatives offered to assume respon­ sibility for this balance, with the un­ derstanding that other provinces will pick this up in succeeding years.

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•

MOST PEX>PLE WON’T go to church to hear about Christ. What about them ? Realizing the potential of mass communication to reach this generation of Americans, the (G. C.) Commission on Home Ministries this year has invested $30,000 in radio and television. Together with the (Old) Mennonite Church, it has produced a special 3’ri-minute daily radio broadcast called CHOICE, as well as four one-minute Family Life TV Spots. CHOICE, the short daily radio broadcast, is now being heard on about one hundred stations in Canada and the United States. The Family Life TV Spots .have been seen weekly by about forty million people since June 1 on over three hundred stations in iN'orth America. Another way of saying this is that the spots are now being used by stations which can be seen by over 80 per cent of those living in the United States and Canada. It is estimated that the free time given by television stations alone is worth about four million dollars. Comments on the radio and television productions are favorable. Like this one from a United Methodist minister from Bangor, Maine; "Besides being ex­ cellent television, it (potter’s wheel 'TV spot) has done a fine job of awakening some of the couples in our city to come and seek help.’’ Bernie Wiebe, whose office is tn Winnipeg, has been directing the radio and television witness. ’The commission, in using the electronic twins, radio and tele­ vision, seeks to accept the challenge to share the good news about God’s love, forgiveness, and friendship with people of today.

• J. M. KLASSEN has resigned as Executive Secretary of the Mennonite Cent­ ral Committee (Canada). The resignation, which will become effective June 30, 1970, was accepted with regret by the MCC (Canada) Executive Committee at its quarterly meeting here December 5-6. Klassen said he had thoroughly enjoyed his relationship with MCC during his twelve years with the organization, but he felt that this was an appropriate time to make a change.

• WHILE MRS. MADALYN MURRAY O’HAIR challenges prayer and Bible reading by U. S. astronauts during space travel, the Democratic Republic of Congo requests Bible teachers for their government schools. Currently 36 Bible classes are held weekly in government schools. ’Twenty additional classes are awaiting teachers with none available at present. Mission­ aries are working at capacity and qualified Congolese teachers are still wanted. • THE CANADIAN COUNCIL of Churches had an MCC (Canada) observer present at tlieir seventeenth meeting Nov. 24-28 in Montreal. Newton Gingrich, vice-chairman MCC (Canada) writes: “Major attention was given to four concerns: (1) the French and English fact, (2.) poverty in Canada, (3) world development, and (4) the future of the faith. As an observer, I praticipated in the group which discussed the future of the faith. I was impressed with the spirit of acceptance and mutual concern for candid involvement. ’The group agreed that there will be little or no change in the faith of the future. ’The expression of faith as centered on Jesus Christ will, however, require careful discernment and flexibility.’’

• AFTER NEARLY a year of trying to arrange a meeting with the Prime Minister leaders of the Mennonite Central Committee (Canada) have finally given up. ’They made direct approaches to Mr. Trudeau’s office and also attempted to set up an audience through two cabinet ministers, James Richardson and John Turner. A final effort was made earlier this week, but with no success. After this last door was closed, MCC (Canada) asked Minister of Justice John ’Turner to deliver their brief to Mr. Trudeau. Copies of the statement were also circulated to various other cabinet ministers. Mr. Trudeau’s refusal to see the Mennonite delegation marked the first time since the 1920s, when William Lyon McKenzie King became leader of the Govern­ ment, that the Mennonites of Canada have not had an audience with an incom­ ing Prime Minister.

by Elsie Milligan

TELLING THE WORDS “Come boys and girls,” said the Ndona, “I have some lovely pic­ tures to show you.” The children from the villages around were clustered round the Ndona in her camp. At first they had been shy and half-afraid of the strange white lady, for they hardly ever saw a white person in their district: But the Ndona loved boys and girls, and she spoke the Lunda language so well that these children had no difficulty in un­ derstanding her. Now they were sitting on the ground looking at a scroll of pic­ tures which Ndona had hung upon the branch of a tree. They did not wear any clothes except for a little loincloth round their middles. Their heads were covered with woolly curls as they raised their eager little faces to look at the pictures. There was one picture of Jesus sitting down, with boys and girls of different nations around Him. “See,” they said, “there is a black child like us there, and Jesus is smiling at him.” “Yes,” said the Ndona, “Jesus loves the Mack children just as much as the white boys and girls. Long ago He died to save them, for even children have sinful hearts which need to be cleansed in the precious blood of Jesus.” Then she taught them to sing a little chorus. Jesus died for all the children. All the children of the world;

January 2, 1970

Red and yellow, black and white, All are precious in His sight. Jesus died for all the children of the world. African children love singing, and they quickly learned this cho­ rus and sang it over and over again with great joy. When it v'as time for them to go home to their villages the Ndona gave them all a spoonful of salt as a little treat. Ths boys and girls would cup their small hands to receive the salt, then eagerly lick it as they ran home through ths forest, till not one grain was left. Simba went with the Ndona on her bicycle to visit the villages in the afternoons. There she would talk to ths grown-up people and teach them about Jesus. There she would see again the boys and girls who visited her camp in the morn­ ings. By now they were great friends with her, and when she left on her bicycle to return to camp the children would run be­ hind her bicycle, singing and clap­ ping their hands. They always went with her as far as the first river from their village, for that is a polite African custom, to go with your departing guest as far as the first river. At the river they would part, the children clapping their hands and saying: “Goodbye, Ndona, come again soon.” And Ndona would say: “Goodbye, my little friends, come and see me in my camp soon.” One day the Ndona sent Simba on a message.

“Go round the villages, Simba,” she said, “and tell all the sick peo­ ple that if they will come to my camp tomorrow morning I will give them medicine and try to help them.” So Simba went round telling all the people. “But,” they asked him, “how much must we pay the Ndona for her medicines?” “There is nothing to pay,” said Simba, “it is out of the mercy of her heart that the Ndona helps our people who are sick.” When they heard that there was nothing to pay, many of the peo­ ple hurried off to the camp to get some of the white man’s medicine. But some were afraid to go, afraid that the witch-doctor would be an­ gry with them, afraid too, perhaps of the unknown medicines of the strange white people. What a busy time the Ndona had helping all the sick people who came to her camp. She put oint­ ment on their sores and bandaged them up. She put drops in their eyes, and gave them medicine to drink for their coughs and fevers. It made her heart very sad to see the sick little children, especially the babies. She wished she could take them all back +o the House of Healing at the Mission, where they could have the care and treatment that they needed. But the time that the Ndona liked best of all was after sunset. When they had had their evening meal the village people would come to her camp and sit round the lovely big blazing camp-fire and chat. The dry-season nights are cold, and they loved to warm themselves by the fire. Sometimes a great crowd would come, laugh­ ing and chattering and vieing with each other to get the best seats by the fire. No one wanted to sit the way the smoke was blowing, so they all tried to get the seats on the other side. The Ndona would bring her camp-chair and sit beside the wo­ men. She loved to watch them. She could just see the whites of their eyes and their gleaming white teeth showing up in the flickering firelight, with the dense darkness of the bush behind them. Suddenly the flames of the fire would shoot up, lighting up the branches of the trees overhead, or perhaps a show­ er of red sparks would shoot sudNext page please

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denly out of the fire, looking like the fireworks the Ndona used to see at home in England. She loved to hear the resin of the trees hiss­ ing and sizzling as the logs got hot in the fire. Her heart went out in love and longing to these heathen men and women and boys and girls, and she wanted so much to win them for Jesus. Like the children, the grown-ups also loved singing. She taught them to sing some hymns and choruses. One they specially liked was: Tell me the story o/ Jesus, Write on my heart every word; Tell me the story most precious Sweetest that -ever was heard. Then she would tell them Bible stories very simply, so that even the old people could understand. At last the old Chief would get up from the leopard-skin on which he had been sitting (Lunda chiefs always have to sit on a leopard­ skin) , and his nephew would roll it up and carry it back to the vil­ lage. The Chief would say a polite “Goodnight”, and set off to return to his village, followed by all the people. When the sound of the chattering of the people and the clanking of the women’s metal anklets had died away in the distance the Ndona would sit on by the fire by herself. She was tired now—oh, so tired, but still so very, very glad that God had called her to leave her home in England and come out to tell these heathen people about Him. One evening when all the others had gone, Simba sat there for a time and chatted with the Ndona. Suddenly there was a dreadful, blood-curdling noise right behind the Ndona’s chair. She jumped up in alarm, she didn’t know what it was. But Simba said: “Do not fear, Ndona, it is only a hyena, they are great cowards. See, I will throw this at it, and it will run away.” He reached forward and took a stick alight from the camp-fire and threw it at the hyena, and, sure enough, it ran off yelping into the forest. So Simba heard the Words of God day after day as the Ndona taught the people. And because he did not obey them his heart got just a little bit harder each time he heard them. To be continued f

8

Can You Accept Your Life? Laura Siemens

Soanetimes Wts see our role oj motherhood in a very wrong perspec­ tive. The Joneses are up ahead. We pelt along behind.

Are you married? Are you hap­ py? Or are you resigned? Sullenly resigned, grimly resigned, defiant­ ly resigned, or patiently resigned? Are you plodding through life like an ox in a team? Are you on your husband’s side? Honestly? When he suffers adver­ sity do you suffer with him? Or do you mutter to yourself, “I told you so”? We may never discuss our attitudes or even fully recognize them. But they show. And they make a difference in our marriage. You may be surprised at the joys, the delights, that will come when you place yourself conscious­ ly, wholeheartedly on your hus­ band’s side. The man you married. Maybe he’s too charming when he shouldn’t be. Maybe he’s too small, too tall, too fat, too talkative, too quiet! But, of all the men you know, he is the man you chose. Accept the fact. Accept the man. Some of us need a course in ac­ ceptance. The Great Teacher is ever ready to teach willing pupils. (Given time He could even change the plodding ox into a brilliant moth!) Do you accept your children? If they are bright, alert, handsome, obedient, we can readily accept what they do. A reading teacher had saved books during the school years for their children. One of their boys didn’t read after a year of school. The parent was shocked, disappointed. A fond father may

buy horses for the boys. But then he may find they’re too scared to ride. When our children don’t con­ form to our ideas of what they should be we’re so easily disap­ pointed, or even embittered. Some of us parents need to take our emotions behind the woodshed for a thorough purging. We must ac­ cept our children as they are. We cannot force them to be something they are not. It’s much easier to love a stubborn little boy into read­ ing than forcing him. After ac­ ceptance, love, applied regularly with intelligence, will help where force will fail. Love is the greater power. Do you accept yourself? With limitations. Sure, you can sew five dresses the week before Christmas if you have to. But which is more important to your child just now? A new dress or mother’s presence and attention? Sometimes we see our role of motherhood in a wrong perspec­ tive. The Joneses are up ahead. We pelt along behind. Past the grimy, defiant hands of the frighten^ boy who is punishing his brothers. Past the clutching, begging hands of ths whiner. Past the chubby hands of the toddler who is reaching out for mother. Often we have to make difficult choices — time for the child, time for material things? Are you superwoman? Or can you accept yourself — with limitations? THE MESSENGER

with th© Chur©ties MAFEKING

On Wednesday. LNTovember 12 a group including Andrew and Alma Friesen, Walter and Nita 'Dueck, and Jake and Betty Warkentin presented a program to the Senior Citizens at the Swan Val­ ley Manor. While discussing the evening afterward we came to the conclusion that we were the ones who received the greatest blessings. It seemed strange to stand before these older folk and re­ late our experiences while looking into faces wise with the experience of years. Many nodded their heads while we talked or sang in agreement and know­ ing what we said was something that had probably happened long ago in their past. Nevertheless, at the end of the service they thanked us profusely and showed us around their home. They are a very happy group and truly love the Manor. They have many luxuries and privileges such as the use of the kitchen for a snack at any time. It thrilled me to see on the faces of many, a peace that only God can give. How­ ever. we know there are unsaved souls there who need our prayers. A Christmas program was presented in the Mafeking Fellowship Chapel on Sunday, December 21, All classes from Beginner to Adult participated before an audience that filled our little chapel to overflowing. We thank God for the blessings of that evening. ROSENORT FELLOWSHIP CHAPEL

Mrs. Elma Friesen and Mrs. Helen Reimer had given our Chapel pulpit a new coat of varnish for Thanksgiving Sunday. October 12. Some of the girls had put up a beautiful thanksgiving display. Rev, Frank Eidse was the gfuest speaker at the Chapel and spoke on Thanksgiving. Thank you, brother, come again. Harry Brandt, one of our young ushers, graduated with a Grade XII Diploma from the Rosenort Collegiate, Oct. 18. A highlight in the activities of our Fellowship was the three day Mission Conference, beginning October 17. The first session on Friday afternoon was a ladies session, chaired by Mrs. Helen Reimer. Among others the Pleasant Valley ladies and the Morris Fellowship ladies sang some special numbers. The Rosenort E.M.C. ladies also sang. Mrs. Elsie Funk presented a skit and the missionaries Miss Evelyn Plett and Mrs. Jean Plett, West Indies gave reports on their work at the evening session.

January 2, 1970

The missionary Gladwin Plett, West In­ dies brought a message. At the Satur­ day night session, the Executive Secre­ tary of our Mission Board, and Rev. Ben Friesen, chairman of Canada Commit­ tee, spoke. The Junior Girls sang some special numbers. Sunday morning, Oct. 19, the Chapel Choir sang and the missionary Ernest Funk, Paraguay, preached a message. At the evening session the missionary Jake Kroeker gave a message and Mrs. Bertha Kroeker reported on Mexico and Miss Esther Reimer on Germany. It was a successful and inspiring Mis­ sion Conference. The young brethren, Ron Hoeppner, Richard Kroeker, Wilbert Warkentin, Abe Loewen, Allan Loewen, Harry Brandt and Leroy Barkman, spent Sun­ day, Oct. 26, presenting a Christian pro­ gramme at Hodgsen, Dallas and Fisher River. Beverly Giesbrecht spent an enjoyable week at Moorehead, Minnesota, as an exchange student from the Rosenort Collegiate. The ladies have been quite busy sew­ ing school kits for the MCC. The Green, bank Sewing Circle under the leader­ ship of Mrs. Marie Reimer had their Auction Sale, Nov. 13 at the Collegiate Auditorium. The proceeds are all for mission purposes. Our paster Melvin Dueck conducted a series of services in the Maryfield Church, Saskatchewan, November 17 to 23. Sunday, November 16 Mr. and Mrs. Abe L. Loewen were welcomed as new members of the Ro­ senort Fellowship. There are 61 mem­ bers now and the Sunday School has grown to 110. We are very thankful and appreciative of this steady growth and increase. November 16 Rev. John P. Komelsen was the guest speaker in the morning service. He spoke on “The Basic Need For Love”. Indeed, a very timely message, even for us Christians. On the same Sunday the minister Peter J. B. Reimer arrived at the Win­ nipeg Airport at 4:00 p.m. from his Around the World Mission Tour. The whole family, except Nita and Guy Ho­ gue from Texas were there to welcome him home. He was tired but happy to be back after an absence of 6*^ weeks. They took him for a family dinner at Elmer’s house in the city. ’Twenty-five flights with a total mileage of about thirty thousand miles were successful­ ly completed by God’s grace and love. The next Sunday, Nov. 23rd. he preach­ ed a sermon in the Chapel on the theme

“The Lord is a Great God” based on Psalm 95: 3. He also made a report on his trip to the regular session of the EMC Ministerial at MacGregor, Dec. 6. At the regular Bible Study time on Wednesday, Oec. 3, we had a Panel Discussion based on Col. 3:18-4:1. Three topics were briefly discussed. ’They were: The Relationship Between Husband and Wife; between children and parents; and between employer and employee. Members of the panel were: Darryl Rei­ mer and Bruce Martin as children; P. F. Warkentin as a father; Ri.Thard Za­ charias as a husband; Leroy Barkman as an employee and John 'Thiessen as an employer; then Mrs. Melvin Dueck as a wife. It was an interesting and in­ structive discussion. Dec, 9 the brethren decided at a bro­ therhood meeting to enlarge the kitchen facilities in the Chapel basement and build a large window into the wall of the nursery in the Chapel. Sunday evening, Dec. 14, our Assist­ ant Pastor Peter J. B. Reimer made a pictorial report of the first half of his World Tour, He showed 300 colored slides of his tour through England, N'etherlands, Switzerland, Rome, Greece, the Holyland and Egypt. Some time af­ ter Christmas he will show slides on the other half of the tour, which should take us through Ethiopia, India, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan and Hawaii. He al­ so showed several hundred slides at the Eventide Nursery Home at the Thurs­ day regular evening service. 'The elder­ ly folk enjoyed this very much. Sunday evening, Dec. 21, the Chapel Choir rendered a fine Christmas pro­ gramme at the Chapel under the direc­ tion of Ron Hoeppner. Theme was; “'The Manger King.” ARDEN

On November 23 most of the Sunday School workers and their families ga­ thered at our pastor’s home. First we did some skating on the creek. After that we had lunch together. Then we started preparations for our Sunday School Christmas program. The pro­ gram will be held on December 23. On December 13 a group from our Sunday School went to the East View bodge Senior Citizens Home to present part of our Christmas program. Many of the residents were present. We sing at this home and at the Neepawa Hos­ pital every Saturday night Good News Club has again been started for the winter in Arden. It is held in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Jim Hosier with Mrs. John Toews in char­ ge. The attendance is very good.

9

KAMSACK

On Nov. 13 we had a ‘Youth for Christ’ meeting. Garry Enns, from Saskatoon, Youth for Christ director for northern Saskatchewan, was the speak­ er. At present, the Canora Baptist Church and the Pelly Fellowship Cha­ pel are planning to join us in the Youth for Christ program. Communion Service was held on Nov. 16. Rev. Bill Buhler from Endeavor had the message. This commemoration of Christ’s suffering and death touched our lives anew. Mr. and Mrs. Scharfenberg came with the Buhlers. Brother Ron Penner from Pelly also took part. We had a good turn out. 'The testimony period was a blessing. We praise the Lord for it. Nov. 19 was Mission Nite. Rev. David Afflick serving under the Greater Europe Mission showed slides from France and gave us a short report. Many came out to share the blessings. Nov. 23, we had our regular service at the Eaglestone Lodge. The Ladies Sewing Circle had made beautiful fruit baskets which were distributed. These people appreciate the services very much. Brother Walter Haljeski speaks in the Ukrainian language.

We have had the privilege of having a missionary couple with us. Mr. and Mrs. Mervin Van Nortwich, who having been serving under the Northern Cana, da Evangelical Mission, sang several duets, showed slides, with Brother Van Nortwich giving a challenging message, Elliot Eobyck, son to Mrs. Swerhun, passed away suddenly. The funeral ser­ vice was held on Dec. 4. Our Pastor was in charge. Our group sang a number of songs. On Dec. 14 our Sunday School Christ­ mas Concert was held with approxima­ tely 140 children and adults attending. The church was filled to capacity. Our Church Club and Miss Johnson’s Club participated. It was a real blessing.

Rev. and Mrs. P. K. Friesen, from Pleasant Valley, visited the C. F. Duecks. Visits like these are appreciat­ ed very much. Come again! Brother Al­ bert Fink had a successful hernia ope­ ration in Saskatoon on Dec. 19. Mrs. Fink accompanied her husband to Sas­ katoon. We wish Brother Fink a speedy recovery. Brother Haljeski is on the sick list. He had a slipped disc. We are glad he is improving again. Mrs. Arthur Zaitsoff is at present in Winnipeg. She is treated for rheumatism. She may have to stay till after the New Year. We wish her well.

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LOVE Love: Is a rose in bloom, A lily white, A star in the sky. And the wind at night.

Love: Is a cosy home, A Christmas Tree, A blanket of snow. And a beautiful dream. Love: Is a talk with God A helping smile, A forgotten mistake, And an extra mile. Love: Is a blossom in spring

A blade of grass. The song of a bird, And la beautiful l^s.

Love: Is a walk in the woods, A bird on the wing, A coving of doves. And the coming of spring. And Love: Is GOD, so great and kind. Then turn to your neighbour, whoever he may be, shake His hand. And give him a smile. by Christine Cott, 15 Box 1044, Hope, B.C.

MCC PROJECT OF THE MONTH — YARD GOODS — JANUARY 30,000 yards of yard goods are needed in nine countries. Light­ weight materials are requested for Haiti, Honduras, Paraguay, Tanzania and Vietnam. The heavyweight material is needed for Algeria, Hong Kong, Jordan and Korea. Feed bags and flour sacks are acceptable for sewing classes if they are washed. Remnants can also be used if there is at least a yard of material. Material is a very important part of the MCC self help.

An appeal to Canadian families

Take an Overseas Visitor (Trainee) into Your Home for Six Months New placements will be made February 1, 1970 (Manitobans, here’s a good project for your provincial centennial) Trainee program objectives:

The sponsor’s responsibilities:

1. Promote goodwill between people of North America and other coun­ tries;

1. Furnish room, board, and spending money per month.

$20

2. Give trainees opportunity to ob­ serve life in Mennonite Churches.

2. Send MCC $75 monthly to cover travel, medical and administrative expenses;

3. Provide opportunity for trainees to improve their occupational skills.

3. Give trainee opportunity to work, preferably in his chosen vocation; 4. Make him a member of the family for the six months.

If you are interested write or call

MCC (CANADA) 201 - 1483 Pembina Highway, Winnipeg 10, Man.

453-4897

THE MESSENGER

MENNVILLE

Our deeper life meetings Nov. 9-16 proved to be a good preparation for the mission conference which followed. Rev. Milton Fast pointed out the greatness of our Saviour by using the "I Am’s” of St. John. He bravely pointed out sin which hinders our relationship to God but, he also encouraged us not to get discouraged because Christ knew all about our sin and weaknesses and He was ever willing to forgive and to re­ store. The reports and messages given by Esther Reimer, Gladwin Flett, Lester Olfert, Ben Friesen, Henry ’Thiessen and Jake Kroeker were impressing and challenging. We realized anew that there are many needs on the mission fields of today. However we also realiz­ ed that God is still at work and that He still adds His blessings to faithful ser­ vants. ’The mission conference also in­ cluded a closed election for the Fete Friesens. An ordination service is to take place Dec. 28. The choirs are enjoying their privi­ lege of spreading the "joyous news” during this festive season again. They have rendered programs at Matheson Island, Fine Dock, Riverton, Gimli Be­ thel Home, Gimli hospital and Gimli Chapel. May this outreach result in the ingathering of many souls for the Lord. MACGREGOR

Recently some of the men have been busy making renovations at the church to increase the washroom facilities. On Friday, December 5 the EMC Mis­ sion Board had its meeting at our church and on Saturday the Ministerial was also held here. ’There were about 70 ministers and deacons in attendance. Members of the local congregation invited the Mission Board members for meals on Friday as well as for the night On Saturday the ladies served dinner at the church. On December 4 the home of the Hen­ ry Hieberts was completely destroyed by fire. To show their love and concern the church had a pantry shower for them. Also some members volunteered to canvas the community to help them financially at this crisis time. Happen­ ings like this are hard to understand but when we can look beyond the pre­ sent and know that God has a purpose in all things we can be comfort^. The Ladies Aid had their final meet­ ing of this year on December 9. This was a social with the husbands present as well. On December 20 the ladies dis­ tributed plates of Christmas goodies to the senior citizens in town. These to­ kens of thoughtfulness seemed to be ap­ preciated.

January 2, 1970

Our Young People had their Christ­ mas banquet on Dec. 19 and their Christmas program on Dec. 21. Their program took the form of a pageant in which they brought to mind once again the events of the first Christmas. The Sunday School is .busy practicing for their program on the 24th. They’ve also bought presents for the Children’s Home at Montreal Lake, Sask. Amidst all the activities of the Christ­ mas season it is important that we don’t lose the true spirit of Christmas. It It is our desire that Christ be exalted this Christmas season.

S. B. I. Annual

Youth Conference FEBRUARY 6 - 8 Theme: "Power To Burn"

Films and Filmstrips ABOUT RELIEF SERVICE AND PEACE. Make your reservations now for showing this winter. FILMS Africa in Three Dimensions 16 mm, color, 45 minutes. Shows the Mennonite church alive in Nigeria, Congo and Tanzania.

Speaker: Rev. Rudy Boschman

Ages: 16 and over

Cost $5

Write today: Steinbach Bible Institute

Box 1420 Steinbach, Manitoba

Algeria Mission 16 mm, black and white, 20 minutes. Shows MCC’s program in Algeria,

Wide is the River 16 mm, col­ or, 25 minutes. Depicts the problems of the Middle East and what MCC and Mennonite missionaries ana attempting to do.

FILMSTRIPS Pax: Men for all Reasons, 95 frames, 17-minute tape. Aimed particularly at high school and college-age young men.

WhatTl You Give? 91 frames, 17- minute tape. Story of the oldest Mennonite relief auc­ tion, the Tri-County sale at Morgentown, Pa. Bedding, Bundles and Band­ ages 59 frames, 17-minute tape. Describes need for and use of material aid supplies. A Farm in Crete, 62 frames, 18- mdnute tape. Describes MCC’s agricultural program in Crete.

Order from your provincial MCC office or MCC (Canada) 201-1483 Pembina Highway Winnipeg 19, Manitoba.

The Eternal Goodness Of marvel or surprise; I know not what the future hath Assured alone that life and death His mercy underlies. And if fny heart and flesh are weak To bear an untried pain, The bruised reed He will not break, But strengthen and sustain. And so, beside the silent sea, I wait the muffled oar; No harm from Him can come to me On ocean or on shore.

I know not where His islands lift Their fronded palms in air; I only know I cannot drift Beyond His love and care. . .

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