The Messenger March 26, 1971

INSIDE: Vol. 9 No. 7

March 26, 1971

SB! Minister Seminar

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Numerical growth can never be a safe sign of a church or a Conference and yet on the other hand it is a signifi­ cant factor in the progress of a church or conference. At least so thinks EMC moderator P.L. Friesen and right­ ly so. To support this he gave us the 1970 figures at our last ministerial. It showed 112 baptized and 45 accepted by transfer while at the same time there had been 176 child­ ren born. From these statistics he surmised that, in his words “we are losing out.” Counting numerical growth is not all carnal as some would suppose. A look at the Book of Acts bears this out. The first church carefully recorded the increase of disciples. So take for instance the follow­ ing. Acts 2:41, “Then they that gladly received His word were baptized; and the same day there were added unto them about 3,000 souls.” Acts 2:47, “Praising God and having favour with all the people and the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. ” Acts 4:4, “Howbeit many of them which heard the Word believed and the number of men was about 5,000.” Acts 5:14, “And believers were more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.” Acts 6:1, “And in those days when the number of the dis­ ciples was multiplied.” Acts 6:7, “And the Word of God increased and the num­ ber of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly and a great company of the priests were obedient to the team.” Acts 8:12, “But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the Kingdom of God in the Name of Jes­ us Christ, they were baptized both men and women.” Acts 8:38, “And he commanded the chariot to stand still and they went down both into the water, both Philip and Eunoch and he baptized him.” Acts 9:31, “Then had the churches rest throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; walk­ ing in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Acts 11:21, “And the hand of the Lord was with them; and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord.” Acts 11:24, “For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.”

Acts 16:5, “And so were the churches established in the faith, and increased in number daily.” Acts 17:12, “Therefore many of them believed; also of honourable women which were Greeks, and of men, not a few.” From these accounts of the first church it appears that numerical growth was of sufficient interest to have it re­ corded. Yes, I believe God is vitally interested in church growth both on the spiritual and numerical level. The pic­ ture of the shepherd going after one lost sheep till he found it also illustrates that God is conscious of numbers. I take my hat off to anyone who makes efforts to go after the lost, and likewise to institutes, and seminars training Christians for more effective witnessing. Among these would be Campus Crusade (L.I.F.E.) and the Coral Ridge program, to name a few. It is thrilling to hear of laymen who have received the necessary impetus to witness from these various institutes and are leading souls to Christ. We are also aware that there is no one universal method when it comes to witnessing. The important thing is that we do it. One brother related how he had used the booklet “The Four Spiritual Laws” to lead a soul to Christ during a business encounter; he had gone through the booklet from cover to cover after which the person had made a commit­ ment. Then we read of those who used Kennedy’s approach. “Suppose you were to die tonight and stand before God and He were to say to you, ‘Why should I let you into My heaven?’ what would you say?” This was also used with good results. As we seek reasons for our slow growth maybe we have missed the most elementary one. That is that Christ is not Lord in our lives. Jesus explicitly says “Follow me and I will make you fishers of men. ” The book of Acts records that “they that were scattered (the Christians) went everywhere preach­ ing the Word.” They took witnessing seriously. This we can see from the Scriptures we cited earlier. The alarm has been sounded and we agree we should set our goals higher. But to set goals higher alone will not bring results. We need to mobilize our laymen for the work of building the kingdom of God and as labourers together with God go forward. —D.S. Cover photo: Department of Travel anti Industry, Victoria, B.C Swans and Cygnets, Beacon Hill Park, Victoria.

should every aspect of our church’s program. My concern thus is not related to Abe Plett’s vitriolic indictment but The Editor: rather centres on the letter as an My letter, although addressed to example of the pervasive and growing all your readers, is directed more dichotomy among Mennonites; those specifically to Abe Plett in Mexico who want to evangelize and those who who appealed to our Conference to want to humanize. Abe Plett obvious­ challenge the “declarations and prac­ ly only wants to evangelize and feels tices of the MCC”. I would agree that he is not called to minister to the the principles and practices of that whole man as the Gospel rather clear­ particular arm of our church should ly suggests. He is of the opinion (as be reviewed from time to time as are many others) that MCC is or is be-

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coming a “mere” humanitarian agency.” True, the churches have instructed MCC to emphasize certain roles but these roles are very much in keeping with Christ’s com­ mands. May God forgive us for being myo­ pic and factious rather than being perceptive and conciliatory. Sincerely, Peter Dueck Appalachia Director

THE MESSENGER

SB! MINISTERS SEMINAR

movement had its roots in the Ang­ lican Church. Together with them was a national by the name of Simioni Sibamba. It began with an in-depth study of the teaching about the Holy Spirit and His work in the life of a believer. These people were deeply touched and experienced revival. From its starting point the revival spread to neighboring villages. This resulted in the formation of fellow­ ship groups. Their theme song was “Precious Savior Thou Hast Saved Me” which is the theme song even to this day. In 1937 Dr Church had to leave his medical work and started to spend his time working with teams. These teams would go out to villages even farther away. In this way the news spread into Kenya, the Sudan, and Tanzania. It spread into the Congo, Nyasaland, Angola, Ethiopia, Indonesia, India, and Pakistan. In 1951 a team came to England.

First row: Ed Wiebe, Wawanesa; Frank D. Reimer, Landmark; Dave Eidse, Morris; Here an evangelist by the name of Pete Buhler, St. Laurent; Andrew Plett, Arborg; Dick Buhler, Winnipeg; Dave Hilde- Roy Hassien was deeply touched by brand, Winkler; John Arden; Bruno Voss, Morris; Fred Friesen, Morris. f ’ ministry J ' '■team and2 1.. - - Toews, ~ -of; this in Second row: John P. Loewen, Giroux; John D. Friesen, Saskatoon; Dave Thiessen, Riv- tym became an ardent proponent of erton; Abe Giesbrecht, Austin; Peter B. Reimer, Steinbach; Arnold Fast, Steinbach; the movement. Frank Isaac, Steinbach; Died. Gerbrandt, Winnipeg; John Bergman, Altona; Ed Friesen, Following are some of the signifi­ Morris; Jac. L. Kroeker, Riverton; Henry W. Kornelson, Giroux; Frank K. Friesen, Mor­ cant things about the movement as ris, Harvey Plett, Steinbach. Third row: Henry K. Schellenberg, Steinbach; Peter K. Bartel, Kleefeld; Dave Rempel, pointed out by brother Gerbrandt. 1. It had its beginning in the conDominion City; Frank Braun, Griswold; John Wiebe, Steinbach; Corny B. Loewen, Mor­ ris; Norman Groening, Lowe Farm; Menno Penner, Arborg; John K. Reimer, Winnipeg; text of the church of England. Frank Thiessen, Wawanesa; P.W. Brandt, Morris; Ben Hoeppner, Steinbach. 2. The movement is non-schisFourth row: Ernest Friesen, Vermillion Bay, Peter Dyck, Hepburn; Pete Broesky, Stein- matic. bach; Peter B. Reimer, Stratton; Ed Klippenstein, Steinbach; H.F. Klassen, Maryfield; 3. There is a tremendous emphasis Frank Doerksen, Gladstone; Jake Gerbrandt, Lowe Farm; P.L. Penner, Steinbach; Mil- of fellowship. P .J .Leonard... . .Pansy. 4. Honesty is a key word. ton w, Fast, ... Kleefeld; Barkman, Fifth row; Nick Eidse, Morris; Ed Stoesz, Saskatoon; Jerry Hildebrand, Winkler; Ben L. 5. Confession of sin is emphasized. Kroeker, Morris; Henry Thiessen, Austin; Jake Froese, Winnipeg; Corny Harder, Austin; 6. Team ministry is carried on. John Dueck, Winnipeg; Isaac Friesen, Winkler; Henry Friesen, Lowe Farm.

The 1971 SBI Minister’s Seminar saw six key people speak to as many issues, facing today’s minister. Dealing with these issues were David Ewert (Gifts of the Spirit); Paul Peters (Relationship of Phy­ sical and Spiritual Man); Henry Klassen (The Relationship between the Doctor and Minister); Died. Gerbrandt (Revival Movement); Ben Hoeppner (Perils of the Minister); Travis Reimer (Goals of the Min­ ister); Harvey Plett (Authority of the Minister).

7. Exhortation of one another is practiced. REVIVAL MOVEMENT 8. Group decision making is stress­ ed. Died. Gerbrandt The movement has also spread to parts of the United States and Can­ Mr Gerbrandt, who in 1968 made an ada. objective study of the East Africa revival movement gave two lectures PERILS OF THE MINISTER on the topic. This revival movement had its beginning in East Africa, in Ben Hoeppner the Ruanda - Uganda territory. Sev­ eral people were involved, with In dealing with this topic, Mr Ben special mention made of a Dr. Church and Bishop Barham both Hoeppner emphasized five points. from the Church of England. The 1) Undue Familiarity with Divine

THE MESSENGER. Publi.shed every other week by Evangelical Mennonite Conference, Board of Education and Publication, Box 1268, Steinbach, Manitoba. Second Cla-ss Mall, Registration Number 0591. Undeliverable copies, change of address and new subacription.s should be mailed to the above addre.s.s. Pages March 26, 1971

man to confess Christ’s Lordship in his life, is just as real in the life of a believer who does not have the ecstatic gift as in the life of a be­ liever who has the ecstatic gifts. The presence of the Spirit in a man’s life is determined by whether he ac­ knowledges Christ as Lord. The second point raised by Mr Ewart had to do with the diversity of spiritual gifts. These differences of the manifestation of the Spirit should not destroy the unity of the church. “There are different kinds of ser­ vices” the speaker pointed out “and for that reason we need to have dif­ ferent kinds of gifts.” “Where people serve God, by serving others, that is THE GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT where you have the evidence of the presence of the Spirit.” David Ewart The gifts mentioned in this chap­ ter (12:8-10) fall into two general Dr. Ewart delivered two lectures categories — communicative and on the topic, “The Gifts of the Spirit.” wonder-working gifts. The first one based on I Corinthians “The baptism of the Spirit refers al12 and the final one on I Corinthians ways to initiation” said brother Ewart 14. “whether it is a reference to PenteChapter 12 opens with the test of cost, or whether it is a reference to authenticity. The speaker pointed out the founding of a church or for that matthat in paganism there was a lot of ter an individual’s membership in ecstacy and even frenzy in worship, the body.” Paul with his Jewish attitude toward “Spiritual gifts are not there to be idolatry calls this a kind of slavery, paraded” said Mr Ewart. “Spiritual He says, “you were dragged away gifts are there for service. The gifts from time to time as you worshipped of the Spirit are related to a man’s these dumb idols that didn’t speak, calling in life. ” over against the Christian God who In his second study, Mr Ewart answers the cry of those who come continued with the “Gifts of the Spirit.” to Him in faith.” The prophets of This time his text was taken from the Old Testament had ridiculed the I Corinthians 14 titled “The Proper deafness of the idols many times. Use of Gifts.” The comparative value Now many of those who had come to of tongues and prophecy; as related the Christian faith experienced ec- to the church and as related to the Stacy in Christian worship, as they unbeliever. had in pagan worship. The question “The argument is this” said the would arise, how do you tell that it is speaker “that prophecy is more imauthentic and that it is of the Spirit portant for the church than tongues of God or that it is a genuine ex- because when a man speaks in perience at all? Paul gives the an- tongues he engages in a kind of spirswer that the difference lies not in itual soliloquy, he is talking to God; the ecstatic experience as such but talking between himself and God goes in the content of the experience, on...but that has no meaning for the He says that the man who has the congregation because the congregaSpirit of God will always confess tion cannot understand what he is that Jesus is Lord; he will never saying, curse Jesus, but always acknowledge Prophecy, on the other hand, has the lordship of Christ. So the im- value for the congregation because portant thing for the believer is by it the congregation is built up.” that he acknowledges Christ’s lord- He continued “There is then an imship, not whether he has the rich portant principle to observe in the endowment of charismatic gifts. For use of all gifts. Does it build up the the fullness of the Spirit enabling a congregation?” Page 4

Things, “the loss of reverential awe and fear for God Himself.... You and I talk about God daily, we talk about the Bible daily.... and the danger is that these things can become common to us.” 2) The Peril of Inconsistent Living. It is possible to fall into the trap of being an exhorter but not an example. 3) The Peril of Jealousy. “We have ample examples of this in the Word of God. Study the relation­ ship of the Pharisees and Jesus and you have a real dramatic illustration and example of how jealousy operates.” 4) Peril of Faulty motives and 5) The Peril of Compromise.

What about tongues and the unbe­ liever? To sum up the effect of tongues on the unbeliever Mr Ewart saw two possible effects. “They may be taken aback when they see tongues being used...the finger of God telling them that they are on the outside. Or they may lose all respect for the church when they witness the un­ believers carrying on in this kind of ecstacy and confusion.” Mr Ewart concluded the study with a point on The Orderly Employment of Tongues and Prophecy. Here he again brought out the fact that in all the spontainity and variety, “there must be one general, over-arching principle and that is the upbuilding of the church.” He also explained that “in our con­ cern to preserve the Biblical pat­ tern of church life we must not overlook the fact that we cannot ever repeat the apostolic age in all its dimensions. Some things in the Bible are descriptive and other things are normative...not everything you have in the book of Acts can be put on a flat plane, with what you have in Paul.” GOALS OF THE MINISTER

Travis Reimer

“Sometimes there is a certain kind of suspicion that when we talk about planning and we plan too specifically that then we are trying to shut the Holy Spirit out.” This is not the way the speaker viewed the topic. “On the other hand the Holy Spirit ought to lead us to very concrete planning,” he stated. He used the Apostle Paul as an example when he said “I press to­ wards the mark.” Mr Reimer pointed out that the min­ ister’s personal goal could be stated in the words of Paul to Timothy “Take heed unto thyself”. Ministers are often so busy with the things of the Lord that they don’t even take time to pray. The teaching goal of the min­ ister is also from a statement by Paul in the same verse, “Take heed to your teaching.” Thirdly, he spoke on administra­ tive goals. These consist of 1) The need for planning, 2) Example of planning, 3) Kinds of leadership, 4) Definition and 5) Sample plan. THE MESSENGER

INTER-RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE PHYSICAL AND THE SPIRITUAL Paul Peters

there could be some physical illness. On the other hand (from the minister’s side) one ought to be a little careful to assume immediately that this is a spiritual problem, per se.

5. Where a patient has cancer. 6. The dying patient. 7. Maternity ward. - the mother with a still-born baby - the mother with an abnormal baby - the inter-faith married - the unwed mothers

“Man at his best is a very complex creation, and he is a very complex problem. There are several trinities THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN that exist in him. He has a body, he THE DOCTOR AND THE MINISTER has a mind and he has a soul. And Henry Klassen AUTHORITY OF THE MINISTER Harvey Plett these three things do not always get along too well together. There are Harvey Plett spoke on the topic Mr Klassen started out with saying conflicts”, says Dr Paul Peters. he had changed the topic to “Doctor “The Authority of the Minister”. He Dr Peters went on to analyze the and Minister' an Effective Team,” He began by stating that “the world’s problem in three categories: mental feels that it will not be too long until authority today has a very negative illness, spiritual illness and physical the doctor and minister will work as connotation.” illness. He also mentioned the min­ a team. He based his talk on the following istry of our Lord and that He dealt Why should doctor and minister scriptures: I Timothy 4:11-16; 5:1-3, with people in total, body, mind and work as a team? 17-19; Titus 1:8; Heb. 13:7,17. spirit. 1. “We are both in the healing minFor the source of authority he Dr Peters also explained how close- istry. The doctor ministers to the named four things: 1) The call from ly the spirit and the body are related, patient and so do»we.” God, 2) Call from the people, 3) “About 50 percent of the problems that "2. “We are concerned about the same Gifts received and 4) The nature of I meet with from day to day are people patient... He (the patient) is in need the work done. complaining possibly about some phy- of all the resources that the doctor In relation to the nature of the sical ailrnent but the physical ailment as well as the minister can give...” authority of the minister Mr Plett is related to an emotional.... or pos . ­• 3. “The whole patient needs our stated that it is not an indefinite sibly even a spiritual matter. (" ’ help.” authority, “Just as one may lose health (We know from statistics that nineteen out 4. “Many diseases have a mental or through a lack of physical exercise, of twenty headaches are related to spiritual cause.” one may lose ministerial authority tension, anxiety, or to some prob­ 5. “Jesus was concerned about the unless he participates in the full exer­ lems.)” whole person... Jesus never compart- cise of his preaching, teaching, and Thirdly, let both of us not forget mentalized man.” preparing work of the ministry.” In that in emotional and physical illness­ Mr Klassen hazarded a guess as other words I suggest to you that es there is a marked inter-relation­ to why doctors and ministers were the ministerial authority that you have ship, It could be one or the other or not working together by saying “we is not something that once you have some of both. Maybe this is another 33 ministers are to a large extent received is yours for life... It is reason why we need to get together to blame. For too long we have not something that, in a sense, you have a little more to see how we can help asked for and have not sought the co- gained because of God’s call due to each , • . . too what you were doing. If you fail to ---- other. operation of- the doctors. And Dr Peters also felt that the train- often we do not know how to work exercise your authority you are going ing a hospital chaplain gets is very with a sick patient in a hospital sit­ to lose that authority... Ministerial helpful to understanding the total nation.” authority can be lost as well as won. needs of the total patient. He also Are trends toward teamwork enMr Plett went on to explain that strongly urged the ministers present couraging? Mr Klassen thinks yes. He ministerial authority should manifest that “as part of your training you seek states “There are many encouraging itself more as an influence than as to understand a little better what the trends towards teamwork.” And “The dictator. “It is not because I sit on a total human problem is; the soul; the hospital chaplain is becoming more pedestal that I can therefore com­ body and the mind so that we can treat and more an integral part of the hos- mand obedience ... Genuine Christian the whole man more effectively.” character and spirituality inspire and pital staff.” In the minister’s dealing with the “With what types of patients can encourage. The leader helps to guide sick the doctor also was concerned we as ministers help'.’” The speaker but the will of the group must also enter the picture...” that they would not always relate a gave the following list: sin aspect to an illness aspect. The speaker also made it clear that 1. The lonely ones. The time we live in is one that has the nature of the authority of the 2. Pre-surgical visits. created much more emotional stress 3. Dlnesses which will necessitate minister is unlike an employer-em­ than we have had in the past. a change in style of life (accident ployee relationship. This authority is exercised by do­ warning one victims, amputees, etc.) would like to give would possibly . , be ’ ! 4. Patients whose illness is rooted ing the work of a minister and should two-fold. People that have problems in spiritual problems (hundreds of grow out of a rich personal faith. (chronic) let us as physicians be people go to the doctor who are act- It will manifest itself in preaching, teaching, exhortation and counselling. careful that we do not rule out that ually in spiritual distress). March 26.1971 Pages

missions Many Jobs — Canary Islands they aren’t worth anything unless thay are what God wants. Even if God wants them they may still be worth­ less unless YOU and I pray, yes PRAY! Then, if it is really true that we live and move and are in God, things will nappen. I believe they can happen. Here are some praise and prayer items: 1. Building has once more resum­ ed. The men are working on what we call ‘the big classroom’. We had hoped to have it finished by Christmas but we are now looking forward to its completion by Easter, Lord willing. 2. We are expecting several new students in the fall. Before they come we need dormitory space and more

“He himself gives life and breath to everything, and satisfies every need there is....For in Him we live and move and are!” Acts 17:25b, 28a. Yes, God satisfies every need there is. Let me give a few examples from my life; through special gifts He has provided me with both a guitar and a radio-phonograph. The guitar is an instrument that is easy to carry ar­ ound and use (after I learn to play) at meetings as well as informal gettogethers. The record player, which is portable, has already been most useful in children’s meetings. It sounds as though I’m doing every­ thing but teaching, doesn’t it. I thought that the Lord called me out here to teach but He seems to have many other ‘jobs’ for me to do. And I am finding that I am really being pulled to the Spanish side of the work. What does the Spanish side involve? Everything a person thinks of in re­ gards to reaching people with the Good News; meetings — with children as well as young people and adults, and especially personal witness through visits or ‘chance’ meetings on the street. Young People! Any day of the week we could meet hundreds of them on the streets of Arrecife, the capital of the island of Lanzarote, They need to be reached! .... but how? I have so many dreams and ideas but Page 6

staff. Your prayers will help us be ready for the children. 3. Tana, a Spanish Christian friend of mine, is going through a difficult time right now. She would greatly appreciate your prayers. How thankful I am for prayer! Not only for my own personal relation­ ship with God, but your supplications on my behalf. Only eternity will re­ veal how often it was your prayer that helped me keep communications open at this end. Because of Christ, (Miss) Marilyn Goertzen Canary Islands

Our Mission Board The EMC Board of Missions is made up of 25 men from various constit­ uent churches. To better acquaint you with the internal working of the Mission Board we want to present in this and succeeding issues the various functions of this Board. The work of the Board is done by various committees as well as individ­ uals. The committee we present today is the Mexico Committee, in charge of our Mexican and Nicaraguan fields. Pray for this committee as they seek the Lord’s guidance in the administration of 17 missionaries with a bud­ get of some $43,000.00.

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MEXICO COMMITTEE

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Seated: Ed Reimer, Ste. Anne, Nick K. Friesen, Morris (chairman) Henry P. Unger, Giroux. Standing: J. L. Kroeker, Riverton, Adrew Plett, Arborg.

THE MESSENGER

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One of the discussion groups at the recent Student-Minister Feliowship at MBBC. Mr Ad­ rian may be seen in the right front foreground.

Student - Minister Fellowship

1’

The auditorium of the Mennonite Brethren Bible College was the scene of an EMC student-minister fellowship on March 6. Keynote speak­ er was Mr Victor Adrian, president of the college. The topic which Mr Adrian was asked to speak on was the relationship between faith and reason. This was followed by smaller discussion groups. Mr Adrian began his topic by say­ ing that we should think of reason as a great gift from God to man; it is part of man’s personality. “The Bible calls us to use the mind, and to use our reason.” He pointed out that the great commandment, which sums up the totality of law, speaks of the mind thus; “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul and with all thy mind.” The mind of man is to function in the Christian, in the one who has faith. “Nowhere in Scripture to my know­ ledge” said Mr Adrian, “is man’s mind castigated, nowhere is man’s reason­ ing power depreciated, nor does be­ lief call a man to commit intellect­ ual suicide... Faith does not ask a man to stop thinking. Faith is not anti-reason. Reason is to serve faith.” On the other hand the speaker pointed out that faith is anti-ration­ alism. “I see faith in conflict with rationalism...that view that maintains that the human reason, unaided by divine revelation, is an adequate and sole guide to attaining religious truth. In other words it places hu­ man reason on the pedestal as lord March 26,1971

...Faith rejects such a view of human powers. Through the centuries Chris­ tian faith has been in conflict with rationalism.” To further illustrate this he went to Colossians 2:6-8, where there is a suggestion of a conflict between the divine and the human. And it is the wrong use of reason which is in con­ flict. He pointed out that there is noth­ ing wrong with the scientific method, providing our frame of reference is Jesus Christ. In II Corinthians 10:3 Paul further illustrates this when he demands of the Christian “nothing less than a total submission of the mind, the heart and the will to Jesus Christ.” Rationalism on the other hand maintains that the finite human mind is lord. The speaker continued by saying, “The grand conflict in our world today is not communism against free en­ terprise, nor white against black... rich against poor, but the major con­ flict...is the Lordship of Jesus Christ with our minds. ” Mr Adrian touched on the real problem when he said, “Our problem is that we are satisfied far too much to accept Christ in a small corner of our life...but we don’t permit Christ to penetrate and open up our mind and challenge all the presup­ positions of men... The major con­ flict is between the Lordship of Christ and the hundreds of other allegiancies which are based upon aut­ onomy of man and man’s reason.”

To conclude his talk the speaker summarized his views of rationalism as “taking a viewpoint that the human mind can go it alone...” On the other hand answering his own question “What is faith” he sum­ marized “Faith is based on know­ ledge. It is based upon that which you and I regard as credible. Faith is not apart from knowledge. But having been convinced and persuad­ ed that the knowledge about Jesus Christ is true we then trust in Him. Faith is trust in a person... There­ fore I would like to define faith bas­ ically in terms of an inter-personal relationship. A relationship with Jesus Christ... Faith is having Christ. As simple as that... “Such a faith then is also a renun­ ciation of intellectual self sufficien­ cy of man... Reason from that point then is brought into active service for Christ... Therefore faith with reason is the Christian’s approach to truth... Faith not without rea­ son, but faith with reason and faith with understanding.” After Mr Adrian’s talk the assem­ bly divided into four smaller dis­ cussion groups to discuss the impli­ cations of what they had heard.

Following are some of the questions which came out of the group discus­ sions. 1. When a person makes a de­ cision for Christ isn’t it at this point to some extent a leap in the dark? 2. We often say we are just ration­ alizing, how does this relate to rea­ son that comes from God? 3. Where do you draw the line be­ tween rationalism and reason with faith. How do you know that your reasoning is from God? 4. How do you communicate to somebody who uses a different frame of reference, and who claims to be objective? 5. What function does reason have in salvation? Total attendance at the meeting was around 70. This included some 12 minister guests. Lome Kornelson served with two numbers in song. Food was served by a group from the Aberdeen church. Page?

GOULDTOWN

Seen here together with Mr and Mrs Art Loewen (right) and Mr and Mrs El­ mer Hamm (left) are bap-

tismal candidates Esther Wiebe, Margaret Wiebe, and Isaac Wiebe.

Our annual meeting was held on JanIn the past several weeks some work Jan­ Pastor Art Loewen read Col. uary 21. 1 — has been done to improve the church 3:22-24 and we were admonished to do basement. Although some paint had to be all things as unto the Lord. It wa.s a real cleaned off afterwards, it was a real joy joy to see people eager to take part in to work together, knowing that itj^as for spirits were upThe pasthe Lord's work. (Our _, . the ' Lord' and' not' for ourselves. ' lifted and we are looking forward with tor's house also had some repair work new courage to a year of service for done. our Lord and Master. Mr Isaac Wiebe. MCC promoter, atOn February 18 Mr Wright from the tended the MCC meeting held jointly Canadian Bible Society showed us some with the Conference and M.B. church slides of how Bibles are made. We were in Herbert. March 11. Mr Fred Peters informed us of help made to realize how much is involved ...for in making Bibles and we learned to ap- needed Pakistan and Nigeria..The predate them more. But the thought ling- need stressed most was the work among Bro. Barney Barney LaLaered in the congregation whether all the the northern Indians. Bro. cendre, a Cree Indian from Meadow Lake. new translations are good. cendre. We had the priviFege of having Mr and Sask, gave a stirring testimony. On March 13 Mr and Mrs Art Loewen Mrs Alfred Friesen report of their work and family, as well as Margaret and in Nicaragua on February 19. The membership meeting on March Esther Wiebe went to Caronport to enjoy 4 was a time of sharing and fellowship a program of singing by the Caronport in preparation for the Lord’s Supper. Bible Institute and High School choirs. The baptismal candidates also gave their testimonies. March 7 was a day of great blessing. BLUMENORT Mr and Mrs Art Loewen, our pastor and his wife, transferred their membership A new and challenging avenue of Chrisfrom the Braeside EMC to this church, tian service has opened for our young Then pastor Loewen baptized the fol- people. It all started when Margaret lowing: Isaac. Margaret and Esther Penner took her youth Sunday School Wiebe. Rev Elmer Hamm was the guest class to the Juvenile Reception Centre speaker. on Vaughan Street for a Sunday afternoon The presence of the Lord was very as a missions project of the class. Even real. In the afternoon we enjoyed fel- though the girls were given a cool receplowship around tne Lord's table. We tion and left with a pessimistic attitude were again reminded of the great cost toward continuing this type of service, of our redemption. Opportunity was giv- the Lord had other ideas. en for testimonies. It is our prayer that It wasn't long after this that our Sunday these newly baptized young people will School superintendent received a letter stand firm so that others may thereby from the program co-ordinator at the be challenged to follow the Lord. They Centre, inviting him for an interview need your prayer support. to discuss further opportunities for our Pages

young people. A decision was reached which allowed our young people to come in and play, sing, and talk with their juveniles. February 13 the first such effort was launched. A group of nine went to play volleyball with them at the centre. Since then more Saturday afternoons have been spent in this way. Permission has been granted by the co-ordinator at the Reception Centre, that some of the inmates may be taken out for an evening or afternoon of rec­ reation and fellowship out in the country. What a glorious opportunity of winning a troubled young person to Jesus. The objectives for this project are two-fold: 1) By genuine Christian friendliness show them that we love them. 2) Through our association with them win their confidence and win them to Christ.

STEINBACH In our church, Bible cell groups were started in January. The theme has to do with living with one another and what the Bible says on this subject. We are now nearing the end of the ten weeks study, and I wonder just how much bet­ ter our living together has become! January 17th Rev David Braun was welcomed as a new member to our church. Sunday, the 21st of February, Mrs Nellie Loewen, Maryanne Berger, Lin­ coln Kroeker, Arnold Leister, and Corny Hiebert were baptized. Welcomed as new members were Mrs Linda Braun, Anna Vogt, and Mrs Helen Leister, That evening, Feb, 21, the Steinbach Bible Institute Ladies Aid brought us an informative program about the work of the Ladies Aid, Participants in their

THE ATONEMENT an Easter Cantata

will be performed by the

Steinbach Bible Institute Friday, April 2nd

at 8 p.m. in the

Emmanuel Free Church Everyone is Welcome THE MESSENGER

»

I

presentation were soloist Lome Kornelson of Morris, besides various sing­ ing groups from different local churches. Dr Lome Penner spoke briefly about the people of Ethiopia, and Mrs Kathy Ebner With the advent of warmer weather, thoughts are already turning to sum­ gave a testimony. A question and ans­ mer camping programs. We are presenting here the needs of three sum­ wer period by Mrs Harry Neufeld, mer Bible Camps for 1971. Why don’t you prayerfully consider going to help at one ol them. and Miss Gert Giesbrecht, secretary of the Bible school, gave people an insight to the work done by the Ladies aid. The collection went for a much needed garSTEEPROCK BAY BIBLE CAMP buretor for the Bible School. “The Paper” edited by Audrey Barkman This camp is situated at Mafeking, Manitoba on Dawson Bay, Lake Winand Steve Reimer and printed monthly, nipegosis. It takes in children of Metis and Indian origin. is an outreach of our young people to First camp-July 5-9 make contact with the church. They in­ Second camp - July 12-16 vite contributions and feedback from old­ Third camp - July 19-23 er people who are interested. Needed are: The funeral for Larry Reimer, 20 year Counsellors old son of the John A. Reimers, was held Sports director here on March 2. For three years the Water safety knowledge of his certain departure was a daily companion in the Reimer house­ Music director hold, but when the final break comes it Cook ’s helper is as always a painful parting. Larry was Gratis supervisor one of the first young men to take the Apply to: Brigade leadership training course, and Rev. Abe Giesbrecht helped to get the Battalion well started Box 154 and organized. Austin, Manitoba Allan Dueck, son of the Ben Duecks, and Ernie Penner, Altona, presently on CAMP JUBILEE a European tour, visited Allan’s brother Stan, MCC trainee in Hilversum, Holland. Camp Jubilee is situated some 20 miles north of Portage la Prairie, on On March 5 the fellows visited the John Lake Manitoba. The EMC group at Portage has their camp here on the fol­ Peters. They report a wonderful time lowing date: spent with the Peters and a trip to Basil July 5 -12 with Robert. March 7 Myrna Dueck gave a testim­ If you would like to help here please apply to: ony at our morning service. Myrna is Rev. Gladwin Plett leaving to serve as a full-time office S.S. 1, Site 3, Box 17 worker at the Wes Aarum Living Waters Portage la Prairie, Man. Circle C. Ranch. The evening of March 7 Jake Shultz TRIBES FOREST BIBLE CAMP and Ruth and Peter Koop and Emily served with music in the Braeside church, Tribes Forest is a camp for Indian children at Kola, Manitoba. It is locat­ Winnipeg. ed on Pipestone Creek some 10 miles from Kola. Bill Derksen, guest speaker at the For applications to help in this camp this summer please contact: annual music conference, held in the Rev. Frank Braun Rosenort Fellowship Chapel, on March Box 156 7th, spoke on “Traditional and Contem­ Griswold, Manitoba porary Music.” At our Cradle Roll social, Feb. 14, Rev Ben Friesen spoke on “Love in the Home”. A good message for us to prac­ tice. Rev and Mrs Fast were pleasantly ship class in the Portage Avenue MB surprised to come home to a lovely sup­ church PRAIRIE ROSE on Sunday, March 14. His topic was per, complete with guests Martin Frie­ sens, Mrs Susan Reimer and family and “The psychology of the boy age 8 to 18.” A message from Paraguay (Rev Frank Mr Frank Friesen has returned home the David Brauns on the occasion of Rev after a lengthy stay and surgery in a Kroeker) suddenly made us seriously Fast’s birthday on March 8. aware that sister Diane Plett had not Winnipeg hospital. March 14 Dr and Mrs Lome Penner and arrived there as planned. As a matter of Mrs Henry Peters is hopefully on the Mr and Mrs Rollin Reimer presented a fact Rev Kroeker had waited two days very interesting and informative skit of road to recovery after a short time spent already before finally calling. Where in Winkler Eden Mental Health Centre. the life beyond, where missionaries go, could she have gone? Elizabeth Reimer is also happy to be to our entire Sunday School. Well, a letter from Rio De Janeiro, home and freed of her body cast. Ben Dueck was invited to address a Brazil tells us that apparently in select group of people in a church leaderNew York no such flight was available.

Apply Now

March 26,1971

Page 9

and so a completely different flight plan was mapped out, leaving her stranded in Brazil for four days. Fortunately with God's help she found a pastor family that accommodated her during this time, as the airways weren’t paying for the hotel. Now word has been received that she has arrived safely at Asuncion, Par­ aguay, “Like a Mighty Army” was a film very well received at our recent Sunday School workers gathering. The executive was most grateful for the good attendance and interest shown. The film is a true evangelical story of a pastor and his church in southern United States whose congregation “grew” from 45 to 17 and then climbed to over two thou­ sand in nine years, and how they went about it. It was a challenge and an eye-opener to all of us, and no doubt the Prairie Rose Sunday School and its affiliates will carry on with more dedication, zeal, and fer­ vour to win the lost. A light lunch was served after the film where it was noticable that the conversation centered around the episode just seen. In closing Rev Melvin Koop told us of the many opportunities that presented themselves if only we were willing and ready to "share” the love of God with others. He encouraged us to a greater life of obedience in this wonderful area of ser­ vice to the many “lonely” people around us. We are trusting that this will be the beginning of a real spiritual harvest slat­ ed to begin right after Easter with Rev Henry Dueck as speaker.

CRESTVIEW FELLOWSHIP

been witnessed. May it be the same spiritually! The Bible lessons we are using are from the Mennonite Hour and are simple yet hold the basics of our faith in Christ, and the walk of the bellever,

HUDSON BAY

it C:

Ordination service at Hudson Bay. Mr and Mrs Ed Friesen (ordained). Rev. P.L. Fric­ sen (minister, EMC), and Rev. John K. Reimer (Executive Secretary, EMC Board of Missions).

r 11I 1

Rev John Reimer gave an inspirational talk on the different aspects of a min­ ister’s work. This was followed by the solemn and sacred ordination by Rev P. L. Friesen. In closing Rev and Mrs Ed Friesen sang a duet and Dan Loe­ wen led in closing prayer. Guests who had come to join us on this special day were Mr and Mrs Frank Barkman and Rev and Mrs Andrew Dueck of Mennville, Man., Mr and Mrs Isaac Reimer, Betty and Bertha and Norma Reimer of Fisher Branch. Rev Dueck brought greetings from Ed's parents who were unable to attend and Mr Isaac Reimer too spoke some words of encouragement. That evening Ed and Lil were pleasantly surprised to receive a phone call from Lil’s broth­ er wishing them well in their new task. A fellowship lunch followed in the church basement. The next Sunday, Feb. 28, was another very special occasion at the chapel, when we had our first baptismal service. Baptized and received as members were Rodney and Dianne Salmond and Elfrieda Reimer. We were happy to have Mr and Mrs Glen Ford with us for these special occasions. Due to ill health they have not been able to take part in very many of our church services this winter. Pastor Friesen attended the Northern Fellowship chapel ministerial at En­ deavour on March 13. Sunday he was guest speaker at Kamsack. Elmer Plett took over for him at the home church on Sunday morning. The young people had their monthly program on March 12. After spending some delightful time at bowling, a short devotional period followed. Pastor Frie­

sen challenged us all by his talk on

“bones”. Wish bone, jaw bone, funny bone, The George Penners and little Pearl aims •' •aav tail bone or back bone; which one are you? travelled via air to Mr Penner's parents Baptismal candidates at Hudson Bay. Left Which one would you like to be? in B.C. and have arrived back after a to right, Pastor Ed Friesen, Elfrieda refreshing visit. Reimer, Diane and Rodney Salmond. Our pastor Melvin Koop spent two weeks at Burns Lake, B.C. conducting FELLY February was a very special month Deeper Life meetings with the evangel­ ical church there. Rev Koop spoke of here for all of us at the Pineridge Fellow­ February 21 saw the Pelly group gath­ rich blessings experienced and wonderful ship Chapel. protection throughout his trip. At a special meeting, led by Rev. Bill er at the chapel for an informal fare­ The concerns and prayers of the group Buhler of Endeavour, it was unanimously well for Mr and Mrs Ron Penner who have at Crestview Fellowship are constantly decided to elect Ed Friesen as our pastor now left to make their home at Vanderwith the Jake Klassen family. Mrs Kias- and to have him ordained into the min- hoof, B.C. Also present with us for the evening were Mr and Mrs C.F. Dueck and sen is ill in the hospital much of the time istry. and Mr Klassen, who is in poor health The ordination of Edwin and Lily Frie- Jeanette, Kamsack, Mr and Mrs John himself, came down with a severe strain sen followed on Feb. 21. We were very Penner (Ron’s folks) Maryfield, Sask., of the flu. Mr Klassen’s sister has been happy and honoured to have Rev Peter Miss Helen Wolfe, Winnipeg Man., Mr living in at the Klassens to care for the L. Friesen and Rev John K. Reimer come P. L. Friesen, Rosenort, Man. and Mr John K. Reimer, Winnipeg. An enjoyable four young children and we also think of out for this occasion to serve us. her and her responsibility which she The service was led by Elmer Plett evening was spent with various ones tells us she is enjoying with God’s help. as chairman, while Virgil Sharfenberg taking part, also group singing and visit­ Our prayer meetings continue to be led in opening prayer and scripture read- ing. Gifts of appreciation were given to The evening held every Wednesday in the various ing. Lloyd Penner and Mrs Patsy Plett Ron, Caroline and girls. homes and real growth in numbers has served with several numbers in song. was brought to a close with a tasty lunch. THE MESSENGER Page 10

Mr C. F. Dyck is now in charge of the Pelly church along with his home church of Kamsack. which gives him a very busy schedule and we certainly appreciate his willingness to serve us in this way. Word comes from Donna and Mervin Abrahamson that the flowers are bloom­ ing in Victoria, out there in beautiful B.C. and they are swimming every day. They plan to return to Pelly after Eas­ ter. We still have lots of snow but the days are warming up and the feeling of spring is in the air.

TOBATI This is our first "church news" report from our church in East Paraguay. Mrs Betty Jaruen is the reporter.

weeds and others raked. After the work everyone enjoyed the lunch that was brought along. March 1 school started with Miss Sara Martens teaching grades 5 to 8. The low­ er grades wait for Miss Diana Plett to arrive from Manitoba. She will teach grades 1-4. On March 3 Rev Frank P. Kroeker, Ernest Funk, Mr and Mrs John Janzen and Johnny were at the airport to wel­ come Diana Plett. She had been ground­ ed in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil for four days due to misunderstandings. We praise the Lord for her safe arrival and may she enjoy her stay in Paraguay. “Welcome, Diana!” We are also happy to report that Greg­ ory Kroeker is a lively, healthy baby boy after being hospitalized around Christ­ mas.”

munity College as planned, she had to take chiropractic treatments and is at present staying with Miss Margaret Un­ ger in Winkler. The Willie Duecks and the John W. Loewens- attended the annual M.C.C. meeting in Winnipeg. Wayne Herrod of Winnipeg gave us his testimony in our morning worship ser­ vice, March 7. The senior choir, under the direction of our youth leader, Mr Eddie Brandt, is going to Winnipeg to serve with songs at different hospitals every last Friday of the month. The engagement of Martha Reimer to Raymond Dueck was announced March 14. A summer wedding is planned.

PORTAGE LA PRAIRIE

We, in the Portage Church, are march­ ing forward. When our eyes are fixed MORWEENA on Jesus, we ought to progress, to “con­ quer” more territory.... to be a living The Kleefeld reporter states that the witness to our next door neighbour or next best thing to travelling is to go via to the person we rub shoulders with at pictures and reports. As this is out of work. our reach here, some people prefer to Communion and foot washing was ob­ do the best, namely travelling. served in our church on Feb. 11. The The David H. Duecks made a trip by many testimonies — sharing experiences jet to British Honduras to spend the and words of praise, prepared our hearts Christmas holidays with relatives and for the message, rendered by Rev Dave friends. Mr and Mrs Klass Plett trav­ Harms. Encouraged and revived, we felt elled by jet to British Honduras to visit prepared to continue with the Lord, and their children and other relatives. The to anticipate His return. John W. Loewens with four of their Added to the church on Feb. 14 were children travelled by car as far as Miami. Mr and Mrs Albert Martens. They gave From there, they boarded a plane to a word of testimony after which they Belize, British Honduras to spend the were formally accepted into church fel­ Christmas holidays with Mr Loewen’s lowship by the pastor. Judy Kroeker (on right), daughter of mis­ parents and other relatives. On their A prospective new member made his sionaries Frank Kroekers, welcoming Di­ way home from Florida to Manitoba the first appearance in their home on March ana Plett to Paraguay. Loewens, met up with a very sudden bliz­ 9 — their first born, named Patrick Ja­ zard, and had to take refuge in a truck­ son. stop cafe for the night. For the second On Feb. 28 we were taken on a “tour” to On Feb. 20 Rev Frank P. Kroeker of- night lodging arrangements were made West Indies, a flashback of the work over ficiated at a wedding ceremony of Elsie in a large school for those travellers there during the 13 years that the Glad­ Janzen and David Janz at Tobati. The that were stranded until the storm sub­ win Pletts laboured in that field — pre­ weather being nice many people turned sided. sented by Rev G. Plett. Our male choir out for the wedding. Elsie is the daughMr Abe Reimer also boarded a jet to rendered two numbers in song intermitter of John and Betty Janzen. May the^ British Honduras to visit his mother. tantly. Lord be their light and guide on their who at that time was quite sick. Mr and uur pastor was engaged in conduct­ life’s pathway. Mrs Pete Plett and family took a trip ing special services at the Morris MenWe also had the pleasure of having by car to Mexico to visit friends and rel- nonite Church from Feb. 14 to 21. The Mrs Alvina Kehler from Landmark, Man. atives. Mr Plett at the same time took responses were gratifying and hospitality in our midst over the weekend. She is medical treatments due to rheumatism, in homes supreme. visiting her parents, brothers and sisSeveral young people of our church al­ On March 11, ten mothers (including ters in Col. Bergthal whom she had not tended the Youth Conference at the S.B.I. a few guests) congregated around the seen for some 22 years. Marvin, son of Mr and Mrs Jake Plett, table in the church basement for our On Thursday, Feb. 25 the ladies did a is attending the second semester at the Mothers’ Club Meeting. Mrs Kathy Rem­ good job of cleaning the school house, S.B.I. pel, moderator, opened the meeting with and on Saturday afternoon young and old Naomi, daughter of Rev and Mrs An- prayer and reading of Scripture — Matt. chipped in to do outside work. The men drew Plett, had quite a disappointment, 5:43-45 — “Loving Our Enemies”. For an cleaned up fallen trees while some cut Instead of attending the Red River Com- introduction to the film, she read a chapMarch 26.1971

Page 11

PORTAGE

It was a real comfort to have the many Christians at our side, again showing that we are one in Christ. (Even though Continued our immediate family was not present we know they were praying for us.) The ter from “The Woman in her Home’’ (by funeral service was held here in the Ella May Miller). The film “Willie Bible School chapel with the burial in Catches On’’ depicted Prejudice in a the El Picacho cemetery. Chairman of child’s mind. During his formative years the service was Bro. Alfredo Domin­ he was exposed to snatches like “He’s like guez, messages were presented by Rev. a Jew”, “That nigger”, etc., dropped by his P. B. Loewen of Quellen Colony and Bro. well-meaning parents. His mind became Abe Plett; obituary was read by Jake warped and prejudiced against races and Kroeker father of Kenny. Testimonies people. / and poems were brought by Mexican Later, a lively discussion followed on / Christians. Many of those present our predjudices — close to home. What heard for the first time the plan of opinions do our children form by the “The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken salvation, and others for the first time words we say and by our attitudes towards • -• away; blessed“ ■be the Name of the Lord.”’ witnessed a Christian funeral. Most of other nationalities and certain individ­ are saying this with deep our village people came and others uals? Job 1:21. We ’ , emotion after the accident that took the came from Quellen Colony and surround­ Evidently others also observe Mennonites and form opinions. One mother life of our dear son Kenny last month, in^churches. The deeply moved parents, Jake and related how her daughter, upon coming Feb. 13, 1971 at six p.m. in El Picacho, Bertha; brother and sister, Lester and home from school, reported: “The boy sit­ Namiquipa, Chihuahua, Mexico. ting in front of me at school said, T don’t Kenny was born to us on August 10, Yolanda. (A sincere thank you to all our pray- like Mennonites because they pray too 1969 here in Mexico and was a very •healthy - • He especially ing friends for the many cards and sym- much!' ” and lively boy. 1 May. the Lord bless you Refreshments were served at the enjoyed the outdoors and on the day of pathy shown, f' " close of the pleasant evening. his passing away he played outside al­ for it.). most all day. He enjoyed his toys and the faithful dog who was usually at his side. Kenny was attracted to the far r i side of the truck in which two little friends were playing whose father had come to chat for a few minutes. How­ i ever, when this friend got into his truck to leave, nobody thought of the where­ abouts of little Kenny. So when the truck started he was thrown over and struck by the rear wheel. When we picked him up we had little hope of him being alive. We rushed him to the doctor who soon affirmed that our dear little boy had been An interesting program is being planned killed instantly since his skull was KENTON JOHN KROEKER 1969-1971

REST HAVEN ANNUAL MEETING April 5, 7:30 p.m.

Ridgewood Church

crushed thus causing internal hemmorrage (brain hemmorrage). Externally only a few bruises were noticeable. We are missing his happy laughter in our home. This sudden separation brings deep sorrow to us but we rest assured that God makes no mistakes and soon we will see him in Glory. We also trust that this sudden accident will bring lasting results. Already, our maid, Mar­ garita, has accepted the Lord, after this sudden call of God. Please pray for the chauffeur of the truck that caused this sudden separation — that he also may find peace, the peace that only Jesus gives.

Everybody welcome

Calendar

March 28 - April 4 - Special services at Morris Fellowship Chapel with B.D. Reimer as speaker. March 28 - 31 - Family Crusade with J.C. Peterson at Riverton. April 1 - 4 - Family Crusade with J.C. Peterson at Ashern.

April 8-18 - Special services at Ridgewood with Rev. Melvin Koop as speaker.

N.B. Pastors: You are invited to send us your coming events to be included in our MESSENGER Calendar. We should have notices of this kind at least two weeks before publication date. WHEN CHANGING ADDRESS please fill out the following form and return it together with your present address as it appears at ri^ht to: The MESSENGER, Box 1268, Steinbach, Manitoba.

Name ... Address

City

Prov..

.....

Page 12

THE MESSENGER

NVK MOniH 1SV3