The Messenger May 21, 1971

Inside Haven 25th

Vat. 9 Ha 11

May 21, 1971

o

o

THE ASCENSION Basically Jesus’ personal teaching and healing ministry came to an end at the cross. This struck me very forcibly as I pondered over the fact of the ascension. Nowhere, to my knowledge, do we read of these activities after the resurrection. It seems that His activities were especially confined to His disciples and also some other believers. In these encounters He appears to have been very active. John records that “He did many other signs in the presence of His disciples ...” which he did not even record (John 20:30). Again Acts 1:3 seems to point out that the apostles were among the select to whom "... He showed Himself alive after His passion ...” Here it is added “by many infallible proofs.” In the passage in I Coi^nthians 15 the writer again omits any reference to His being seen of unbelievers. All this seems to point to the fact that as far as the world was concerned Christ’s earthly ministry had come to an end. From now on He, the head, would direct the earthly ministry through His new body, the Church. Unlike His return to earth the second time, when He will come in fiery judgement upon unbelievers. His as­ cension heralded the opening of a new day of grace, even for those who had crucified Him. But this day of grace appears to be fast drawing to a close. As trees budding before summer, so Jesus said there would be signs prior to His coming to herald this event. These signs I believe are already appearing. The accounts of His ascension, and His appearing are given as it were in one breath (Acts 1:9-11). One we know is fact. It has already happened. By the same token, “... He shall come the second time ...” Are we ready? -D.S. TOO MANY CHURCHES!

They were a comparatively neat couple but from my van­ tage point at the roadside carwash I couldn’t quite see whether they were two girls or one girl and one boy. After consultation with Mom and daughter we decided to pick them up. It turned out that they (both female) were on the way to a nearby town to see about attending a Junior College. To make a stab at getting acquainted and see if I could put in a word of witness for my Lord I began with “How many churches are there in W....?” I was almost startled by the quick reply “Too many!” This, of course, gave an excellent opportunity to inquire for the reason of such an abrupt answer and the nature of it. In spite of the fact that they thought there were too many churches they admitted that there were still some who didn’t attend any. This prompted me to say that maybe

they needed another one, which they apparently had never thought about. On the other hand the statement does give one food for thought. Why? Because this is what the world thinks. Far too often we scratch where it does not itch. In order to help the world we may have to give up some of our stock phras­ es and stereotyped arguments which merely serve to shut our hearers off and listen to them for a change. —D.S. BY THE WAY The Blue Trunk Well, it was really more of an oversized suitcase, com­ plete with metal binding, than a trunk. It had originally been a dark blue but through the years it had had quite a beating. Neither did it do much travelling anymore since the owners had more permanently settled down in one place. In its day it had served its owners well. It was a strong piece of luggage and was frequently used. It had been pur­ chased in Eatons basement and although in today’s money value the price would not mean much, yet at that time it was a purchase one would consider. All the service it now did was store things which were seldom needed. No doubt this would also be the end of its travels. But the day came when the old trunk was brought up from the basement, aired, repainted a bright blue (this time) and prepared for another adventure. What was the occasion? It was this. Daughter was getting ready to go off to Bible School and the old trunk was exact­ ly what was needed to supplement her modern luggage! And so the day came when with its new coat of paint, fill­ ed with precious belongings, it was stowed away into the trunk of the car together with a lot of other things for the trip, which would end some 700 miles from home in a strange city. Unlike another suitcase, a fancy one, about which I wrote last fall, this one did not fly open upon my touch, but faith­ fully did its job of keeping the contents in. But the sequal was yet to come. The time quickly went by and on May 10 of this year its new owner culminated her studies, marched down the aisle with some 70 other capped and gowned graduation candidates to receive the reward of their diligence. For Mom and Dad as well as for her it was a great day, long to be remembered. Once more, now coming home after its stint of service. Dad went up the dormitory steps, gripped the familiar han­ dle of the old blue trunk and proceeded to carry it out of the dormitory to the trunk of the car for the homeward journey. It had served well. Today it is back in the basement. And after its contents are removed will likely be pushed into some obscure corn­ er again. But who knows, the day may come when it will again be brought up, polished, and made ready for another adven­ ture. We hope so! —D. S.

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. Page 2

THE MESSENGER

I

The Doctrine of the Holy Spirit by the Editor

THE SPIRIT IN THE OLD TESTAMENT

were both filled with the Holy Ghost (ws. 41 and 67) It seems though that in the Gospels the Holy Spirit is intimately associated with the immediate person of Christ (as in Luke one) and His ministry. This is understandable since the Holy Ghost was not yet given (generally). (John 7:39) Thus also some others received the Holy Spirit in the Gospels. For instance we are told that the Apostles re­ ceived Him. (John 20:22) But that which was written in Joel saying “it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh . . had not yet come to pass, indeed could not before the ascension of Jesus, Probably the clearest teaching on the promise of the Spirit is given in John chapters 14 and 16 by Christ Himself. Tenderly, almost compassionately, He now unfolds the mystery of the Spirit. Already anticipating His griefstricken followers He speaks not of “Spirit" but uses another word. “Comforter”. How wonderfully Jesus was providing for the needs of these now soon “orphans”. He will not leave them comfortless but will send the Holy Spirit who will abide with them forever.

Although the time from Penticost to the present is sometimes referred to as, “the age of the Spirit”, the doctrine of the Holy Spirit is not confined to the New Testament. The Spirit is first mentioned in Gen. 1:2, “And the earth was without form and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.” Genesis 1:26 also seem to imply that more than one person was present at Creation, “And God said, let us make man . . .” We could possibly state that all three. Father, Son and Holy Spirit had their part in Creation. “The Old Testament has many references to the Spirit s work in men of God. “The Spirit of God came upon such men as Gideon and Samson. He came, ‘mightily upon’ Saul and David at their respective anointings as king. Oil anointing became the symbol of Spirit anointing. Bezaleel and Micah were filled with the Spirit. The Spirit, ‘entered into' and fell upon’, Ezekiel. He instructed, warned, spoke, gave rest and could be grieved. Concerning exiled Israel God predicted, ‘I will put my Spirit within you.’ He In The Acts also assured them, ‘My Spirit remaineth among you’.’ How marvelously identical are all these manners Then came that memorable, never of activities with His acts after Pen- to be forgotten day; the day that the ticost.” (Chester Lehman in Gospel prophet Joel wrote about. “This is Herald) that ...” said Peter, “which was spoken by the prophet Joel”. This was that of which Christ spoke in Acts IN THE NEW TESTAMENT 1:8 saying, “But ye shall receive power, The Gospels after that the Holy Ghost is come upon Already in the Gospels much is writ- you • ” From here on it is no longer ten of the Holy Ghost. Luke 1 gives F „ a quesfour distinct references. First, Jesus lion of what Christ meant when was to be filled with the Holy Ghost. He spoke of the promise of the Father, (vs. 15) Then we are told that the uew begun; by some called Holy Ghost would come upon Mary the age of the Spirit. This same Holy (vs. 35) and Elizabeth and Zacharias Spirit now commenced the building

May 21,1971

of the New Testament church. Almost immediately 3000 people were saved. Soon it was 5000! But the fire burned on - and on - and on. It leaped across the sea; it transcended lang­ uage, ethnic and cultural bar­ riers. It gathered into its fold the rich and the poor; the humble and the proud.

THE MINISTRY OF THE SPIRIT The Spirit And The World

Christ already told the disciples what the function of the Spirit would be. (John 16:8-11) Generally speaking these are the three great facts that the Spirit bears witness to today. “And when He is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judge­ ment . . .” This three fold ministry then consists of the following. He re­ proves the world of the sin of un­ belief in Christ; of the righteousness of Christ and the fact that the power of Satan has been broken. The Spirit And The Believer The Holy Spirit regenerates the bel­ iever. John 3:3-5 - “Born of . . . the Spirit.” Thus if any man be in Christ he is a new creation. The Spirit makes alive that which was dead - in trespasses and sin. We furthermore see that the Spirit indwells the believer. Christ has al­ ready foretold this. “. . . he (the Spir­ it) dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. . .” (John 14:17) “Every be­ liever, no matter how weak and imperfect he may be, or how immature his Christian experience, still has the indwelling of the Spirit.” (William Evans) “Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.” (Rom. 8:9) This statement makes it plain that there is no such thing as Cont’d on page 12

Pages

evening when she left. Then they moved me in with the oldest girls I until a new Tante came. When she came I took up most of the responsib­ ility in the kitchen and now Jan and I are doing the cooking all by our­ selves. Tante Elizabeth gives us the menu and checks up on us every May we come to you as a family and who are beginning programs of Bible once in a while. It will be nice if they can carry share some of our experiences with Teaching through with the plans for the new - the pastor in Wolfsburg, who after a you? kitchen. The kitchen we have now conference in March is giving his church Bernice — “A German girl, Yvonne, visited me members an opportunity to teach who is about the size of ours at home and yesterday. She helped me with my never before have had such a respon- considering that we have to cook for 70 people I’d say it was somewhat German and maybe I can help her find sibility. small. It happens occasionally that Jesus. She wants to come with me to - a group of teenagers under Mr Paul Kinderstunde next week.” Staebler (a layman in the State Church) we have to tell each other to “walk Laurie— who were glad to receive encourage- on your own feet.” The Lord has been very faithful “If I hadn’t come to Germany I would ment and directions on how to teach a not know Patricia. I enjoy all my friends S.S. of 150, which started about a year in answering prayers and helping me to adjust and overcome lonelin­ at theJanz Team school.” ago. Jonathan — Will you please pray for all these step- ess. I’m especially concerned that “Guess what! Last weekend we went ping out by faith!” we’ll be able to show the teenagers with Daddy and we stayed at a farm. Joyce — Oh, I had a good time seeing the ani- “No two days are the same, participat- what it’s like to live in close fellow­ ship with the Lord. They need to mals.” ing in my famdies’ activities. Jewel— - we spent three days at an Intermis- see that the Christian life is one “I like to go with Mommy. We go to a sions Conference with missionaries uf peace and joy. Pris Reimer Bad Gandersheim weekly prayer meeting, to Kinderstunde from German-speaking Europe. and to the office where Mommy - on Sunday afternoons the children and works. lean help, too.” I go for a “Spaziergang” - something John — most German families do. 936 BIBLES SOLD IN ONE DAY “Have had a winter of sowing the seed - last weekend we visited a thriving at two short term Bible Schools. Have Sunday School in a State Church, People in Canada find it hard to be­ had many weekend conferences in Ger- - we thank the Lord for you, who suplieve that in so many areas of the many and Switzerland, teaching church port us with your prayers and gifts.” world the supply of Bibles is less growth through Christian Education! Some problems arise because of deep Now, will you also share your exper^’in ^esdho °”in ^Africa tradition. Some say tells of not! 936 Bibles being z.z^izi sold in iz,z.z. less ideas are American. They don’t work much to us. than a day and writes as follows: here!” Postfach 21 “You will be pleased to know that Have had many encouragements such 785 Loerrach Bibles have arrived. One gets as In Him, so anxious seeing customers going Germany - the group of churches in Switzerland The John Dycks away daily from the Bible Society with­ out a Bible. There were 1,400 Bibles at the station, and after I had sign­ ed them, a local tradesman, hearing of my difficulty, told his driver to "Walk on your own feet" return to the shop and unload all their Seeing I’ve been here for over three slowly which I was glad for, because goods, go back to the station and months now I guess it was about I had quite a time adjusting to the take the Bibles to the Bible office, time I let you know how things are change of hours. The language is The Morija reserved five boxes not really much of a problem. I can’t (700 books); the Assemblies of God going. Maybe I should start from the be­ express myself the way I’d like to at took 100 Bibles. The Anglican church ginning. I had a good trip over. Ab­ times, but that will come with more took 100 for use in schools. One church solutely no problem changing flights time. My work as such has had var- ordered 100 but could only have 36 and I didn’t have to wait long any­ ious forms. At first I was helping Tante copies because of the delay. So in where. Uncle Lee was waiting for me Elizabeth in the kitchen and looking less than a day we sold 936 Bibles.” —Quarterly Newsletter in Hannover. I got into the work very after Tante Virginia’s children in the

Missions—Family style

Page 4

THE MESSENGER

Mission^Grams

I Managua, Nicaragua: Here are some statistics for April: S.S. - 54; Sunday1 evening - 36; Prayer meeting 15; Young Peoples - 13, Service in La Paz 35. We had special services during Easter week from Thursday to Sunday hav­ ing morning and evening services. Friday morning we had communion, Saturday we had a S.S. picnic and Sunday we had four services starting with a sunrise service, as well as having dinner and supper at church. We were somewhat tired after that week. On April 30 we had a wonderful service in La Paz. There were about 50 people present. After the service 6 stayed for counselling and made decisions. We trust that they will be able to grow and stand firm. Lester Olfert Amaranth, Man.: These past few months we have been sowing the seed, some boys and girls have grasped the truths and responded. While others have found it more difficult to understand the Bible truths or simply rejected them. There is Kenny, an alert Indian boy, who is very attentive and simply drinks in the Bible stories. But then there is Albert, who is restless, inattentive and disturbing. Please pray for these boys. Let us rejoice together in the fruits of your labour in prayer. The Lord has certainly supplied all our needs. The Lord has been with us and granted us health and safety as we have travelled many a mile to our clubs during the winter months. We have seen the Holy Spirit at work in the lives of boys and girls and have witnessed some turn to Christ. Agnes Friesen Mexico: We praise the Lord for the rich blessings we enjoy daily as we seek to follow His guidance. As rain from heaven on the dry fields so was the annual Bible Conference here during the Easter week. The general theme for this year was “Whom should man fear?” Divided into six sub-topics — Man should fear (or watch); 1) God; 2) Satan, 3) Bad company, 4) Wrong ambitions, 5) Laziness, 6) His own Spiritual Life. The conference program was planned and organized by the Church council of six; three members for the Conference and three for the Youth work. The messages were presented by five of the dif­ ferent church leaders, and they did a wonderful job. The conference revealed that there had been discouragements and defeats but confessions were made and new decisions or victories were claimed. Praise the Lord! Four made open decisions. A new Confer­ ence Council was elected. Jac Kroeker Bad Gandersheim, Germany: Time is going very fast here. I can’t believe that we’ve almost been here a month. I enjoy being here very much. It has helped me in so many ways. I thought that after school I would become dry spiritually, but it’s been so wonderful here. Not really being able to understand the language that well, I don’t get too much out of church, except the fellowship. So I have to dig everything out of the Word. It’s great. Ruth Schellenberg Bad Gandersheim, Germany: I want to thank you for arranging it for me to be here. I really appreciate it. I was working with the children for one day and I thought that I wouldn’t be able to do that every day so Ruth tried it and now I’m in the kitchen with Pris, and Ruth is with the kids. I like it in the kitchen much more.

YOUR MISSION BOARD Christian Service Committee

1 '

I

.

Christian Service Committee members: Standing 1. to r. Dave Dueck, Swift Current, Sask.; P. L. Friesen, Morris; Sitting: D. K. Schellenberg, Steinbach.

The Christian Service Commit­ tee was begun in order to fill a need for short term service, either at home or abroad. By short term we mean anything from a few months to a maximum of two years.

There are at present some 23 missionaries serving under this Committee. Five more are proces­ sed and looking forward to going out. These 23 workers are engaged in various ministries such as teaching, nursing, children’s work, child care and domestic. The 1971 budgeted figure for Christian Service is some $25,000. Your prayers for both workers and committee would be apprec­ iated.

Janet Toews

Pages

May 21,1971

I

NGOM A Ths by Elsie Milligan

CHAPTER VIII (Cont’d.)

help us. I wonder if you have under­ stood from what you have learned since you came here, that Mwanta Yesu (the Lord Jesus), God's Son. wants to come into your heart and life to save and keep you from sin, and to lead you in a good new path." ■'Yes, Bwana, I know," said Ngoma uncomfortably. •'There is another matter," Mr Nel­ son went on, "Shimoni tells me that at first you told a lie about this and denied having been to the village." Ngoma felt even more uncomfort­ able but did not speak. "I know," said the Bwana, "that you Mr Nelson called him back after the did not understand before vou came others had gone and talked to him. "You have repaid the kindness here that it was wrong to tell lies, but shown to you," Mr Nelson had told him, I want to tell you what God says about "with disobedience and deceitfulness. it in His Book. He says "There shall in I have not punished you for going to no wise enter in (to God's Village above) the dance but for breaking the school anything that defileth...neither that maketh a lie'. And in another place the rules. "You are less to blame than some Bible tells us that, 'A lying tongue is an of the others," the Bawana continued, abomination to the Lord',” "Think about these things, Ngoma, "for you have only been at school a short time. I expect that the 'things of and open your heart to receive and to the village’ still have a strong pull for obey God’s Words. Remember that you. But you did know that it was Mwanta Yesu died to save you from sin. He is alive today, and He knows wrong to do, didn’t you? ” "Yes, Bwana, I did," said Ngoma, you and loves you and is calling you to “but..,but when I heard the beat of the follow Him in His path.” It was after this episode that Ngoma drums..." "I understand," said the Bwana first began to think seriously about quietly, "you could not resist their call. spiritual things. The challenge of the We have no power of ourselves, my boy, Gospel began to touch his heart, but not to resist temptation to sin and evil in our yet was he ready to respond to it. Then the first term came to an end own hearts. We need a Strong One to

Later when he met Tshombe and heard his message, he realized that the game was up, and he wished that he had not lied to Shimoni. It was. no doubt, owing to the Chrb‘ian teaching he had been having that he now felt un­ easy about it. He went with the other three boys to the Bwana's office at two o’clock. They had to wait some time till Mr Nelson arrived to deal with them, and as they waited, Ngoma felt more and more miserable. He did not mind the caning which he had when the School Bwana arrived, but he did mind when

Page 6

and the boys of the boarding school scattered to their far-off villages. What a tremendous welcome Ngoma and Tshombe got when they arrived home, dressed in a smart shirt and shorts which they had earned through working in Dr. Hendon’s garden in their free time. Both boys went straight to the Chief's Compound to greet him as tribal cus­ tom demanded. His grandfather gave Ngoma a warm welcome and exclaimed with pleasure at the way the boy had grown and developed. "What do they feed you on at the Mission that you have grown so much fatter?" he asked. "Just the same food, Nkaka, as we have at home," Ngoma replied, "only we always have plenty, and often they give us meat with our mush. Also we have the fruit that grows in the School gardens, bananas and pawpaws, and pineapples. We all have to work in the fields in the afternoons." "Tut, tut," said the old Chief, "that is not good—field work is only for the women. " "But we have to do it, Nkaka," said Ngoma, "the Bwana says that though we are learning the wisdom of the books at school, we must never think that we are not too clever to work with our hands and we must not be proud or boastful. We have to chop all the fire­ wood used in the School Compound."

"Quite right too, ” grunted his grandfather, "that’s a man's work." That evening Ngoma’s mother cooked a fowl with their evening mush to cele­ brate the homecoming of her boy. Afterwards Ngoma produced a large brightly coloured cotton handkerchief as a present for his mother to wear on her head, and a smaller one for his young sister Lena. How proud Lena was as she ran round the village, showing it to all her friends! That evening in the 'mahanjikilu' (time of the conversations) Ngoma and Tshombe answered the many ques­ tions put to them by their friends and relations and told of their life at the Mission School. Ngoma took his reading book and impressed his elders very much by telling them the words that were in it. Then he took a small stick and with it he wrote his name and Cont’d on page 12

THE MESSENGER

Twenty-fifth anniversary festivities were held in the new spacious assembly room which Ls part of Apt. “C”.

Resthaven 25th Anniversary

i

For future historians January 6, 1946 will be one of the outstanding dates in E.M.C. history. It was on this day now just over 25 years ago when a concerned group gathered for a meeting to plan the establishment of a home for the aged. On Sunday, May 16, 1971 we were able to look back and reminisce on the intervening years together with many who had come for the festivities of the 25th anniversary celebrations at the Rest Haven Home. Already the previous year (1945) a committee of six had been elected to explore the possibility of erecting a home. These six came from as many geographical areas of the E.M.C. constitutency which at that time consisted of some 15(X) members; the six men were Mr George Bartel, Morris; Mr H. R. Friesen, Morris; Rev. Frank D. Reimer, Prairie Rose; Mr C. T. Loe­ wen, Steinbach; Mr John R. Toews, Giroux; and Mr Peter Unrau, Kleefeld.

May 21,1971

Various locations, including a few farm locations, had been looked at. Finally the Hanover street location (Invalid Home until 1961) was agreed on. This was then purchased for some $10,000.00. This building was replaced by the new Rest Haven in 1961. Rev. Frank D. Reimer, on Sunday afternoon, in looking back on these 25 years especially paid tribute to some of those who had pioneered with them in this venture. Mentioned were Mr and Mrs John B. Reimer, the first house parents; Elizabeth Reimer (now Mrs Albert Friesen, Kleefeld) as the first head nurse; Mr John R. Toews as ad­ ministrator. Mr Reimer also spoke at some length on the gathering of this, at that time, great sum of money. It was obtained by a levy of $7.00 per E.M.C. member. Three dollars of this was due on de­ mand with four dollars on time. The purchase was made and as Mr

Reimer put it in his address on Sunday “We today praise the Lord for the way that He has undertaken all this time... shall we give Him the honour and the glory.” Mr P. A. Plett spoke of early begin­ nings in the physical life of the home. The newly purchased home had a pos­ sible occupancy of twenty patients. He went on to explain that the first nurses did not come in order to grow rich but did their ministry as a mission service. Occupants paid a dollar a day for care. To subsidize operating expenses the E.M. churches were levied on a per member basis of some 10 cents per month per member. Mr Plett also had a list of directors who had participated in the Board of Directors of the home over the years. The following were mentioned: A. K. Penner, 22 years of service; C. A. Plett (deceased) 19 years; Jac. W. Friesen, 15 years; F. D. Kroeker, 13 years; P. K. Plett, 13 years. “I am happy today to speak of the work which I did with such joy and which has such a hold on my heart, the work with the dear elderly and infirm.” Thus Mrs Friesen opened her talk at the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Rest Haven on Sunday afternoon. She continued to relate of some of the in­ ternal struggles that had accompanied the beginning of the first home. Mixed with this of course were also the joys, being able to serve the Lord in this way. March 1, 1946 she recalled, had been the official opening of the home. She herself had come about a week previous to this to acquaint herself with the place. The first annual meeting was held on July 10,1947.

Mehmonite Nursih Home

Page?

Resthaven Apt. "C" Opening

Performing the official ribbon cutting to open Rest Haven Apt. “C” is Steinbach’s mayor, Mr. A. D. Penner. Sunday, May 16, also saw another important milestone accomplished at the Rest Haven. It was the occasion of the official opening (ribbon cutting) of the third set of apartments to be built on the grounds. Present for this occasion was Stein­ bach mayor A. D. Penner. In a short speech before the ribbon cutting he commended the E.M.C. for their vision and initiative in constructing these fac­ ilities.

Mr and Mrs F. D. Kroeker (second and third from left) showing guests the Ben H. W. Reimers, their apartment.

Representing the general contractors, C. T. Loewen and Sons was C. P. Loewen of that firm, who also handed the keys to chaplain Rev. Jac. P. Dueck. Mr Boyle F. Schaeffer was present on behalf of the architects of the unit. The dedication message and the dedicatory prayer were made by Rev. Henry Kornelson of the Ridgewood church, The Hiebert quartette sang several hymns during the festivities on Sunday.

After all formal services were over all guests were invited to partake of a lunch as well as view several of the new apartments. And so from a small beginning in 1946 ($10,000.00) the total estimated value of the Rest Haven complex consisting of the three Senior Citizen Apartments with a total of 67 suites and the home proper with room for some 60 patients, is about $600,000.00.

PANSY

fering brethren behind the curtain, and that their brave ‘standing’ might truly challenge us to do the same in our own situations. Twice recently we have had the privilege of having a different program at church. At Easter a group of local young people presented, very fittingly, a play portraying a Jewish Christian home at the time of Christ, which turned out as a real blessing to all of us. Then on April 30, at an “open for all” Young People’s meeting, we had a group of neighbour young people under the direction of Dave Wiebe present a musical program, which was lively and very well done. Their theme was “The Difference before and after you meet Christ”. Our revival meetings have come and gone. Rev. Corny Loewen of Morris min­ istered to-US, and we appreciate his untiring efforts. The attendance and participation was good. It is now our desire to long re­ member some of the truths learned during this blessed work.

Recently we had a special afternoon ser­ vice, at which Brother and Sister Abe Kornelsen, formerly of Mexico, were accepted into fellowship here. We were privileged to have with us Rev. Andrew Plett of Morweena who spoke very clearly on “Example of the Believers”, as well as the Levi Plett family of Wawanesa, who brought several fine special numbers. Thank-you again! There were various other guests also, and the service seemed really worthwhile. Bro. Jake Klassen has transferred his membership to Pansy. Welcome here! Many of us have been attending meetings sponsored by Underground Evangelism of Russia, etc., with speakers like Rev. Wurmbrandt (at Minnesota) and Rev. Popov (at Winnipeg). These meetings, as well as the Mr Levi Schellenberg, chairman of the reading of their books, seem to have left a Board of Directors and M.C. at Sunday’s real impact on all of us. Our prayer is that we festivities at the Resthaven. might ‘remember’ more faithfully our suf-

Pages

THE MESSENGER

GOULDTOWN

the four types of people as found in I Mrs Solnik and her two daughters Shar­ Cor. 2:14-3:3. These are the 1) unsaved. on and Shirley were involved in a car On March 28 we had a group from the 2) “baby” Christians, 3) “retarded” Christ- accident which resulted in minor injur­ Western Tract Mission in our church. ians and, 4) mature Christians. He has ies. However, they have come back to Mr and Mrs Isaac Wiebe and Mr and Mrs elaborated mostly on the last three, draw- full health and we are thankful that a Henry Penner spent some time in March ing ideal analogies from real life. Again more serious accident did not befall them. visiting relatives in Manitoba. and again we have been faced with the Mr and Mrs Art Loewen went to Weekes question, “To which group do you belong?” for a visit. While they were gone their par- Praise the Lord, we do not have to remain MACGREGOR ents came over from Manitoba. So the tele- in the first three but by God’s grace we can phone served a good purpose again. The proceed on to Christian maturity. Our missionary conference was held Loewens cut their visit short and came March 21-27 with Rev. Mel Slack, missionary CRESTVIEW FELLOWSHIP home to see their parents. to India as main speaker. Bro. Slack is Youth Wendell Cornelson, adopted son of Ernie for Christ director in India. He let us see The Henry Dycks have come to fellow­ many of the practical aspects of missionary and Olga Cornelson, has spent several days ship with us here at Crestview Fellowship life that we so often forget. Also he had in Swift Current Hospital with pneumonia. Mrs Justina Zacharias was in Swfit Cur­ and we warmly welcome you. The Dycks good messages from the Word of God that rent hospital for surgery. She is at home, previously attended the Braeside E.M. really spoke to all of us. church but because they have moved to and well again. This year our pastor invited quite a num­ April 6 the film ‘To Russia With Love” the west side of Winnipeg, they find it ber of missionaries. The main objective was shown in our church. It made us realize more convenient to worship here because was that each home have some missionary what it is worth to be able to worship so of the distance involved. for meals or for night. We felt this was an Rev. Melvin Koop has returned from excellent way to get more direcfly involved freely. April 16 and 17 was Christian Education Ridgewood, where he held a series of with the mission field. I’m sure all those conference in Swift Current. It was good to revival meetings and we pray that God involved received rich blessing. see quite a number of our church take part. would bless that work there. Friday evening after the service the young Rev. Curt Bork (who is a preacher people had a fellowship lunch with all the We were challenged to go and do something. The young people had a clean-up day at in various lumber camps up at Vermil­ missionaries present. the cnurch April 27 followed by a wiener lion Bay, Ontario) held Deeper Life I'm sure all really enjoyed the week with meetings here at Crestview from May 2 our missionaries. They seem more a part of roast which was enjoyed by all. The young people of our church sponsored to 5. Mr Bork showed various films which us now and we will be able to pray for them a Mission sale on May 8. The proceeds are really inspire one to have a closer walk more effectively. with God. I believe the fact that stayed to go for work in the church. April 17-18 was our annual United Youth with me most is what and who the Holy Rally with the churches in the area partici­ BLUMENORT Spirit is and His power. We tend to pating. Rev. Ben Friesen was the main think of the Holy Spirit as an “it” rath­ speaker. We have been privileged within the last er than a person. The Holy Spirit is so Our congratulations go out to Sylvia few months, to have various visiting willing to fully indwell us and bring forth Giesbrecht and Ervin Loeppky on graduat­ groups and speakers in our church. the fruits of love, peace, faith and joy, ing from Peace River Bible Institute at - A group of S.B.I. students together if only invited to do so by us. Sexsmith, Alberta. May God bless you. with Mr B. Sawatsky brought a message Richard, son of Henry and Helen Mrs Cornie Rempel is on the sick list and in word and song. Schmidt, broke his arm and was hospit­ needs much prayer. - Leo Thiessens presented the need of alized for a short period of time. We are Our sympathy is extended to the Peter our Indians in the city. glad to see Richard back in our midst Wiebe family on the passing of Mr Wiebe. - Wayne Herrod gave his testimony in and we see that he is still his usual hap­ His cheerful presence is missed at church. church one Sunday morning. py self! - Rev. Frank Isaac visited us and brought the message on Easter Monday morning. He enumerated and elaborated on various symbols of the stone which was rolled in front of Jesus' tomb. We were all shocked by the news of Mr ANNUAL MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT John F. Janzen’s passing away on April 26. Our sincerest sympathies are extended The annual meeting of Eden Mental Health Centre will be held in the Bergto Mrs Janzen and family. May our dear thaler Mennonite Church, Winkler, Manitoba on June 5, 1971 at 2:00 p.m. Master sustain you in your moments of loneliness. Guest speaker will be Dr. Waldemar Janzen, Professor at Canadian Menno­ On May 2nd, a series of meetings began nite Bible College, Winnipeg, Manitoba. in our church with Mr Ed Friesen, mis­ sionary to Mexico, as our speaker. His There will be open house and coffee at the Centre following the meeting. meetings are more in the form of a Bible All delegates and interested friends are invited to attend. study than a message. Even though this method may be a bit strange to us, it seems as if young and old alike appreci­ ate facts straight from God’s Word. Mr Friesen has been duscussing with us May 21,1971

Page 9

PRAIRIE ROSE

School Bus No. 41 pulled up to the gas pumps after a day's run with the motor running unusually fast. "By rights I should adjust that carburetor for you” the me­ chanic suggested. "Better do it when you and I both have a little more time,” were Uncle Peter’s last words to his nephew. Little did he realize (we believe) that this was his last run. Mr Plett could be trusted with a load of students on short or long trips. Many came to his store for groceries, or have their skates sharpened, or hair cut. Conversations occurred quite frequently on community affairs, spiritual matters, travelling experiences, or of days gone by. It was a beautiful Easter morning when his two brothers, the doctor, and Pastor F. D. Reimer were quickly summoned to the Peter P. Plett’s home to find that a fatal heart attack had suddenly changed courses for the better for Mr Plett. Plans had been to visit Mrs Plett’s sister (who had had a serious operation) at Moosehorn, Manitoba that day and others during the holidays. God's undertaking in such a situation was again marvelously realized in working out plans. A telegram to Dianne in Para­ guay was confirmed the following day by a hamm signal from Rev. Frank Kroeker. Bro. Richard Plett had his brother Lome help him move to Manitoba from British Columbia on their way home for the funer­ al. Of special note was that the Executive of the Bible Club Movement were in session in Spain, who received the sad news first, and relayed it to missionary Evelyn Plett who was also present. Before retiring that night she already knew that the flight up to New York at least was confirmed. A col­ lection had been taken to pay the fare, and one committee member was to accompany her. While in our midst sister Evelyn had the opportunity to present an interesting and challenging report with slides of the Lord’s work in Spain. Bibles are a must in certain grades in the government schools we were told. Many people attended the funeral. Rev. Frank D. Reimer, and A. P. Unger officiat­ ed. Rev. Melvin Koop prayed at the grave­ side. Mrs Plett has decided to discontinue the store business, but will keep her home in the community. Jerome is still at home and is attending the Landmark Collegiate. We have marvelled to note how you have appropriated the strength and comfort of the Lord during these days, dear sister and aunt. May He continue to be near and dear to you is our prayer. Page 10

ONE OF THE MOST dramatic results emanating from the repeal of abortion laws in Hawaii, first state to do so, was the psychological reaction of nursing staffs in the hospitals involved. Describing this at the 48th annual meeting of the American Orthopsychiatric Association was Dr. John F. McDermott, Jr., professor of psychiatry at the Uni­ versity of Hawaii School of Medicine. Within a month after passage of the law in April 1970, Dr. McDermott and his colleagues were called upon by major Hawaiian hospitals performing unrestrict­ ed abortions to help them cope with psychological reactions among nurses in­ volved in abortion duties. Mixing obstetrical and abortion patients in the same hospital unit produced an "acute state of confusion" among nurses. They found themselves helping both in the delivery of new life and "taking it.” "New definitions of life and death, the role of a nurse, and the function of med­ icine were required,” Dr. McDermott said, and "they were forced to face their own personal feelings regarding sexuality and standards of sexual behavior...” —Gospel Herald

«*«*«

VERNON REIMER, MCC director for India, was recently contacted by the Relief Minister of Bengal to help with the influx of refugees which are pouring into his country. Reimer was encouraged to investigate the area and was given letters of introduction to the border areas where the refugee camps are located. He visit­ ed the refugee camps in the Nadia district which has 13 different camps with ap­ proximately 26,000 refugees living in the camps. He was told that approximately the same number of persons are living with friends and relatives elsewhere. Reimer learned from consultation with the camp directors that the camps needed two things which the government was not supplying—clothes and blank­ ets. Upon his return visit from the camps, Reimer was asked by the Relief Minis­ ter if MCC could supply clothing and blankets for the refugees. After receiving the go ahead from MCC (Akron), he ordered enough saris for 4,000 women, 2,000 dhoties and 2,000 lungies for men, (traditional Indian cloth­ ing), 4,000 outfits for boys and 4,000 dresses for girls. He was also able to order 8,000 blankets from the wholesale supplier. The government indicated that they would arrange for the pickup of the goods at the warehouses and transport them to the camps. The government is also interested in having soap, of which MCC has at least 1,300 cartons in the warehouse or on the docks. Reimer also agreed to supply the Nadia district camps with soap. The government officials are quite pleased with the offer of the clothing, blank­ ets and soap. The camp directors will distribute the goods and an MCC represent­ ative will be present at the time of distribution. A certificate and master roll of all those receiving goods will be given to Reimer. Reimer indicated in his recent letter that the Indian government will be happy to receive any amount of food it can get. Especially needed is rice, although wheat will be accepted. India has its own problem with food apart from all the refugees now flocking in.

***** AKRON, PA.—Word was received here on April 26 that Ted Studebaker, Union, Ohio, a 25-year-old volunteer staff member of Vietnam Christian Service (VNCS) was shot and killed Sunday at Di Linh, South Vietnam, when several soldiers, pre­ sumably North Vietnamese or Viet Cong, entered the local staff headquarters. Mr Studebaker had married a fellow VNCS worker. Miss Ven Pak Lee, only a few days before his death. His widow is a native of Hong Kong and had formerly been with Asia Christian Service. Mrs Studebaker and two other women residents. Miss Phyllis Cribby, VNCS nurse and Miss Daisy Banares, International Voluntary Ser­ vice worker, were unharmed. Mr Studebaker was a member of the Church of the Brethren. He is survived by his parents, Mr and Mrs Stanley Studebaker, 6721 West Countryline Road, Union, Ohio.

THE MESSENGER

The messages contained much food for five daughters, all of them living. They are; thought. The Holy Spirit was at work. I’m Leanna, Mrs Lloyd Witmeier, in Winnipeg; We observed Holy Communion on April 12 sure that each one who had the privilege of Wesley, Kola, Manitoba; Evelyn, as a mis­ in the evening. Rev. David Thiessen of attending any or all of these meetings were sionary in Spain; La Verna, Mrs Gerald enriched in their spiritual lives. The ser­ Gaudry, in Rorekton, Manitoba; Lome, Mennville was our guest speaker. Salmon Arm, B.C.; Rosalyn, Mrs Peter Rev. Henry P. Friesen was re-elected as vices were well attended. Word has come from Vanderhoof, B.C. Peters, in Winnipeg; Richard, Pierson, church leader. For this occasion. Rev. John that Ron and Caroline Penner have a son, a Manitoba; Dianna, as a missionary in Para­ P. Loewen was guest speaker. We were pleased to have Rev. and Mrs brother for Brenda and Debbie. Congrat­ guay; Jerome who is still at home. \!^en father was three years old he had Frank Reimer, Landmark, as well as some ulations! an accident which left its mark on his hands other friends, fellowshiping with us on April throughout life. The horses ran away with CREIGHTON 25, Rev, Reimer brought a very inspiring the .sleigh where he was tucked in and his message at our morning worship service. Lloyd, son of Mr and Mrs John W, Loe­ The Northern Fellowship Chapel in hands were very badly frostbitten. He had wen, was taken to the St, Boniface hospital Creighton, Sask, has a need for a pastor, pneumonia in 1939. Apart from that he has on April 24, due to severe pain in the lower starting July 1. We would like to make you enjoyed good health throughout his lifetime. part of the abdomen. Surgery had to be per­ aware of this need for two reasons. First of During his whole lifetime he has spent only formed. After a stay of ten days in the hos­ all requesting your prayers on our behalf one day in the hospital. He worked at the Ste. Anne Co-op for and then for those who would be interested pital, Lloyd is back at school again. Fire completely demolished a chicken in taking up this challenge to contact our eight years where he acquired many friends. Later, after being employed at different barn with ten thousand laying hens on the church secretary at the given address: places, he bought the Linden Store in 1956. Mr Stan Plett Willie Dueck farm. No help was near at the In the store he also had a barber shop. He General Delivery time the fire was noticed by Mrs Willie has also been a school bus driver for the Creighton, Sask, Dueck during the noon hour. About one hour last seven years. after the smoke was first noticed, the Sunday, April 11 we got ready to leave on a whole barn was merely ashes. MR PETER P. PLETT short trip for a few days, when he came into May 9 in the evening at our Christian En­ 1915-1971 the house and mentioned that he did not deavour program Miss Doris Thiessen, of feel well. He wanted to rest for awhile. Mennville, and Dora Friesen of Rosenort, However, after a few minutes he passed each gave a testimony and report of their away. mission work in Mexico. They intend to He leaves to mourn his all too sudden take up missionary work, though slightly passing, me his deeply bereaved wife, four different from what they did previously. sons, five daughters, three sons-in-law, three After completing her second year at the daughters-in-law, 13 grandchildren, his University of Manitoba Elvira, daughter of 87-year-old mother, seven brothers, nine Mr and Mrs David Dueck, travelled to Hali­ sisters, four brothers-in-law, five sisters-infax, Nova Scotia by train on a student trip. law, and a host of friends and relatives. PELLY FELLOWSHIP CHAPEL His sudden passing, which we cannot understand, came as a severe shock but we The E.M.C. Youth Rally was held in the do not begrudge him his rest and trust that Pelly high school gym on April 24. There “He that overcometh, the same shall be we shall see him again on the resurrection were close to 100 in attendance, including a clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot morning where there will be neither pain few adults who came as chauffeurs and also out his name out of the book of life, but I or sorrow. to help in other ways, Alfred Friesen, mis- will confess his name before my Father, and We thank all the relatives and friends for sionary home from Central America was before his angels." (Revelation 3:51 their prayers and acts of kindness and love speaker and opened the rally with a timely It hath pleased the Lord, who has power during our time of bereavement. talk to the people. This was followed by over life and death, to take our loving husThe wife and family. group discussions and a question and an- band, father, and grandfather from us sudswer period. A time of recreation was well denly, to his eternal home. Mr John F. Janzen participated in and so was the supper which Father’s parents were the John K. Pletts. 1896-1971 the ladies served. Special singing and mus- He was born at Giroux on May 30, 1915 and ical numbers highlighted the program. Al- died April 11, 1971 at 11:45 a.m. He reached It has pleased the Lord, the Giver and together it proved to be an enjoyable time, the age of 55 years, 10 months and 10 days. sustainer of life to call home my husband We had a short series of spring meetings In 1920 he moved to Prairie Rose with his and our father to enter into the promised April 30 to May 2 inclusive. Rev. Ben Friesen parents where he grew up and went to rest in the heavenly home. Christ said. Tn of Steinbach came out and very ably served school. He committed his life to the Lord in my Father’s house are many mansions, if it us. Using material from the book of 1933, was baptized by bishop Peter P. were not so I would have told you, I go to Ephesians, Rev. Friesen spoke on commit- Reimer and joined the fellowship of the prepare a place for you. And if I go and ment. Evangelical Mennonite Church (Kleinge- prepare a place for you, I will come again, 1) Commitment to a person (Jesus Christ) meinde at that time). We were married on and receive you unto myself; that where I 2) Commitment to a purpose (a goal in June 14, 1936. Rev. Cornelius R. Penner am, there ye may be also." John 14:2,3. life) spoke the blessing at our wedding. We have He was born on February 28, 1896 to Cor­ 3) Commitment to a partner (husband and thus been able to share our joys and sorrows nelius and Agatha Janzen at Giroux and wife) for 34 years, nine months and 27 days. passed away in the Steinbach Hospital on 4) Commitment to a party (the church) The Lord blessed us with four sons and April 26, 1971 at 4 p.m. at the age of 75 MORWEENA

May 21,1971

Page 11

years, one month, 26 days. Our father rea­ lized his need for salvation and was bap­ tized upon the confession of faith in Christ's redemption on May 15, 1926 and was re­ ceived into the fellowship of the E.M.C. by Rev. Jacob F. Isaac. On July 25, 1926 we were joined in holy matrimony. We shared life's joys and sor­ rows for 44 years and nine months. During this time the Lord blessed us with nine children: seven daughters and two sons. After our marriage we spent several years on the farm. Following this we start­ ed with our automobile repair and black­ smith shop. This was a vocation he had be­ gun before our marriage. He continued with this on a full time basis until 1965 when our son Cornie took over the busi­ ness. Since that time he was in semi-retire­ ment and spent considerable time in the garage every day until his last illness. In 1949, while on a business trip to Win­ nipeg, Father suffered a slight stroke. This marked the beginning of an illness with which he was afflicted for the rest of his life. In February of 1963 he suffered a second stroke. At this time he was hospitalized for several weeks. This illness resulted in a period of real heart searching, repentance and cor.fession. Since that time he has fre­ quently expressed grave concern for his, and his family’s salvation. Father has been in hospital on several other occasions with related illnesses. On Friday, April 23 at 4 a.m. father experienc­ ed a spell of dizziness and increased weak­ ness on the right side of his body. Since these symptoms did not let up by the even­ ing we contacted the doctor and took him to the hospital for observation and rest. His condition remained much the same until 2 p.m. on Monday, April 26 when it became grave. He lost consciousness almost im­ mediately and was relieved of his suffering at 4 p.m. We believe he has gone to his eternal re­ ward to which he looked forward with great anticipation. We also look forward to the time when we shall meet him again in the presence of Christ, our crucified and risen Lord and Saviour. He leaves to mourn his departure me. his bereaved wife Getruda, daughters Sara, Mrs Aron Reimer, Giroux; Katherine, Mrs John Dueck, Blumenort; Thelma. Mrs

Abe Penner, Blumenort; Minnie, at home; Linda, Mrs Ernest Penner, Steinbach; An­ nie, Mrs Joe Plett, St. Vital; Irene at home; and sons Alvin and wife Bernadette, St. Lazare, Manitoba; and Cornie at home, as well as 23 grandchildren. Two grandchild­ ren have predeceased him. He also leaves to mourn three brothers Neil, Mission City, B.C.; Klass, Blumenort; Diedrich, Whitemouth; and two sisters Hel­ en, Mrs Ben Fast, St. Vital; and Anne, Mrs Bill Bergen. Merritt, B.C.; as well as many other relatives and friends. His parents, three brothers and one sis­ ter have predeceased him in death. We sorrow, but not without hope of a glad reunion in the great beyond. We are grate­ ful for the prayers and many tokens of sym­ pathy received during our bereavement.

Mrs Getruda Janzen and family

guides in the matter of vocation. Wliy is it that a believer will all of a sud­ den sense an overwhelming definite leading to enter the service of the Lord as missionary or minister? This can be attributed to none other than the Holy Spirit. At times He will even guide as to the exact field of labour as when Paul went to Macedonia. Seld­ om though does it happen in the manner that it did there. More often it is the still small voice. We readily admit that with this writ­ ing we have just barely sketched the teaching of the Holy Spirit in Scripture. We trust though it will whet the appetite for further study and research into this fascinating sub­ ject.

HOLY SPIRIT Cont’d

NGOMA Cont’d

being a Christian and not having the Spirit. All believers have the Spirit. The Spirit also infills the believer. This is distinct from receiving the Spir­ it. The scriptures teach one initial receiving, but subsequent fillings are mentioned after Penticost. In Eph. 5:18 Paul expresses his desire for the Ephesians saying, “be filled with the Spirit." Moreover the Spirit empowers the believer for life and service. The be­ liever, though still in the flesh, does not live after the flesh. He now has a new nature to overcome the old nature. A believer may still be "overtaken by a fault" (Gal. 6:1) but he does not live in, practise sin. "No one who has received the new life from God lives sinfully, because the very nature of God dwells within him; and he can­ not live in sin, because he has received the new life from God." (I John 3:9 Twentieth Century New Testament) The Holy Spirit will also be our Guide. Christ already said to the dis­ ciples, ", . . when He, the Spirit of truth is come, he will guide you into all truth . . .” (John 16:13) He also

other words in the sandy ground. ■'Truly." the people exclaimed, "the white people have many wits and it is good that our children should learn of them." But there were still others who ob jected to this going in for a new way of things, and the witchdoctor hinted darkly that no good would come of it. The two boys revelled in the free life at home, and everywhere they went they were followed by a hero-worship­ ping crowd of small boys who thought they were all that is wonderful. The schoolboys taught them to play some of the games which they had learned at school and to do some simple drill and marching. So the holiday passed quickly by and then it was time for Ngoma and Tshombe to set out on their long three days' walk back to the Mission and school.

WHEN CHANGING ADDRESS please fill out the following form and return it together with your present address as it appears at right to: The MESSENGER, Box 1268, Steinbach, Manitoba.

Name ..... Address City

Page 12

Prov..

THE MESSENGER

NV5S an3J331)l

Nonil JLSV3

BIRTHS To Mr and Mrs Jack Hooper, MacGregor, a daughter, Maureen Dawn, on March 7, To Mr and Mrs Richard Plett, Morweena, a son Terry James, on April 17,