Vol. 9 No. 8
INSIDE:
SB! Minister
Seminar
SO knew that after this would come the opening of heaven’s gates to eter nal spring and death abolished. And so we who live amidst snow, and ice and below zero temperatures for a part of every year also know that when the present drabness ex hibits itself upon our landscapes, SPRING’S RESURRECTION this is imperative to the transition from This morning as my wife looked out winter’s icy blasts to summer’s lush of the window she remarked on the green vegetation and soft breezes. Thus, far from being gloomy we re dralHiess of the landscape outside. A field covered with slushy snow; joice over the prospect of spring and streets flanked by dirty snow deposit summer which are sure to follow win ed there by a winter snowplow, a ter. And isn’t life itself made up of sum brown lawn, now almost bare, plus a dark, threatening sky. Now certainly mers and winters and again summers? anyone would agree that this kind of Or what did the Psalmist mean when scene was enough to make you want he said among other things the follow ing; to close the drapes! “I had fainted unless I had believed As I thought about this I remember ed a poem I had seen in Easter “War to see the goodness of the Lord in the Cry” the day before and which spoke land of the living” (Psalm 27:13). “They gather themselves together to exactly this situation. Let me share it with you. against the soul of the righteous... but the Lord is my defence; and my Would you believe, God is the rock of my refuge” (Psalm While pond’ring o’er 94:21,22). Those stark, bare trees. “Unto thee will I cry, 0 Lord my That they would come to life again, rock; be not silent to me... Blessed Pulsating green be the Lord because he hath heard With shimmering leaves the voice of my supplications” (Psalm After the wind and rain? 28:1,6). He could also say “Many are the af Could you believe. flictions of the righteous, but the Lord While pond’ring o’er delivereth him out of them all.” There Those sad goodbyes. That life would breathe and bloom is no doubt that he could speak from a living experience. Though going again through unspeakable anguish, pur Exultant sued as a dog, hounded by false bre And forevermore After the grief and pain? thren, his throne usurped by his own son, Absolom, this man by his faith in a God who could intervene in the af Yes, we believe; fairs of man, has left for us a rich For we believe heritage of optimism and hope for a In Him who rose again! brighter tomorrow. Great is our in And thus the beautiful winter land debtedness to the writer of these scape; the exhilarating frosty air; Psalms, which depict life as it is, but frost patterns on the window pane also gender the hope that sustains. If today as one of His children your must all undergo a change. A change that almost invariably brings with it soul seems as drab as the landscape a period of the drabness such as seen outside, remember that this drabness can blossom into a joyous spring, in in ordinary spring thaws. It was the same in the life of Christ. fact a spring that may be just around Before Him He knew, lay dull, drab, the corner. And if perchance God grey, dismal death. “I have a baptism tarries long, remember that Paul, to be baptised with, and how I am under the inspiration of the Holy Spir pressed with anguish till it is accom it, could say ". .. the sufferings of this plished!” (Luke 12:50). But He al- present time are not worthy to be
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compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us” (Rom. 8:18). Peter encouraged the beleagured pilgrims of his day, that even though the present trials were almost over powering, “... we, according to his promise, look’ for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth right eousness. ” The Christian, in the world, in a sense never arrives. He is encased in a mortal body which is constantly subject to sickness, infirmity and fin ally death. But for the believer this is not the end, it is rather the begin ning of that blessedness which New Testament writers keep reminding us of, as they speak of watching or waiting or tarrying. There is more to come. Death does not end all. And this God has confirmed with the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It is His crowning visual aid (said respectfully) that".... if the Spirit of him who raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.” (Rom. 8:11) ___________________ -D.S.
ILi(®’(b(b®3r© A MISSIONARY WRITES To the Editor: I have often wanted to write you to express my appreciation for your church paper. The Messenger. Lena Brandt has faithfully sent me the pap er ever since I left Canada almost 16 months ago. I appreciate the variety of articles and the frank opinions expressed. Your editorials reveal an honest ef fort to understand the world we live in and to make the gospel of Christ relevant to the needs of individuals. The “Joy of Discovery” in the issue I received today, was an inspiration to me. I also enjoy learning about the activities of many of my friends in your churches. May God give you continued joy and wisdom for this ministry. Lena Dueck New Guinea Elvira Dueck. page 3. is a student at the University of Manitoba. Her home is at Arborg. Man. Helena Dueck, page 9. is from the Steinbach EM. Church.
THE MESSENGER. Published every other week by Evangelical Mennonite Conference, Board of Education and Publication, Box 1268, Steinbach, Manitoba. Second Class Mail, Registration Number 0591. Undeliverable copies, change of address and new subscriptions should be mailed to the above address.
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THE MESSENGER
We sing for them— Do they listen just to be polite? I know it sounds terrible—But we gotta pull thru; We better try harder... The notes—think about the notes—harmonize. At last! It’s over—Now let’s get out of here since we did our duty. The meaningless music going through my mind... “This is my story...my song. Praising my Saviour ALL (?) the day long.’’ A friendly word or two would help. But I don’t have the gift to speak! Ah! But do they mind? Shine forth in radiance and love With His abundant power from above. Look what Jesus has done for me— I’m saved and so happy! Be willing to share and show that you care. But first of all—believe in your own heart. (Rom. 10:9) Christian living comes from truly believing.
Even the Cross can become |ust a sym bol unless a person has experienced the reality of God's salvation which results in a personal relationship with Him.
Christian Service!
by Elvira Dueck
Handing out tracts— This tract, this paper with the precious message in my hand. Fluttering—StutteringWill they laugh? Scorn me? I’m afraid and 1 know it’s showing. But I must—I plunge in—doomed—“to be or not to be’’—rejected. How can God reach them thus? Why hesitate? Ashamed of Jesus? Involved in self? Afraid they’ll trample me down In the streets and ignore me? A smile would help. Assurance—not in self but in the Lord. Shine forth...Show that you care. Everyday living— What a scramble! What a bustle! Busy? Sure am! With what? Studies...housework... Oh yes friends...My job... How can I believe if I don’t have time? Time to read God’s letter to me? Time' to talk with God? Unless—if I take time. Acquaintances... They don’t notice me that much—really. I’m just one of them. Well if they’d ask me then I’d tell them, of course. Tell them what? What are words without actions? Shine forth in radiance and love With His abundant power from above. Look what Jesus has done for me— I’m saved and so happy! Be willing to share and show that you care. And God cares—God loves them.
I have failed. I am sorry. Forgive me. A testimony. I will with God’s Help. Oh Jesus, I humbly pray. That Throughout each day They may see You in me And—will come to Thee. Through Your power Lord Jesus. Amen
Friday, April 9,1971
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Seen here are some of the guest speakers at the recent missionary conference. Left to _ right front row: John Reimer (EMC Board of Missions), Dora Friesen (Texas), Mrs. Helen Pope (Northern Canada), Mrs. Elma Reimer (Ethiopia). Back row: Bill Peters (EMB Conference), Mrs. Jean Penner (Ethiopia), Lucille Wiens (South America), Mrs. Kathy Ebner (Austria), Jerry Hildebrand (Brazil).
SB! Missionary Conference Sixteen missionaries or representalives of missions from some seven different countries made up the roster of speakers at the annual missions conference at the Steinbach Bible Institute March 17-19. The conference got off to a good start on Wednesday morning with president Harvey Plett welcoming guests and students with saying “let us open our hearts as He (God) speaks to us..." Keynote speaker was Jerry Hilde brand, a veteran of eight years of missionary work in Brazil, who delivered the six main messages: 1. Make Disciples, 2. Restore the Impaired, 3. Train Teachers, 4. Baptize the Believers, 5. Feed the Hungry, 6. Intercede for all Men. Mr Hildebrand spoke out of a wide knowledge and experience of Latin American mission work. His first mes sage had to do with the preaching part of the ministry. He emphasized that
mission s THE MESSENGER
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“preaching is the essential and distinguishing mark of Christianity." From scriptural examples, another message, he showed that Christ was not against using means when healing, On Thursday morning Mr Hildebrand brought out the need for trained teachers (workers) for the Mission field, He himself had already been told that his full ministry, when returning to the field, could well be in training men. ■‘As you Go—Feed the Hungry” was the theme of Mr Hildebrand's message on Friday morning. “As you sat down to your last meal, one third to one half
of the world had no meal,” said the speaker. John K. Reimer, executive secretary of the EMC Board of Missions shared some pertinent facts concerning EMC Missions. “From a small beginning” he stated, “we now have almost 100 mis sionaries serving in 16 countries." The E.M.C. has their own mission work in four countries. There are 12 mission churches in Canada. Mexico has some 25 EMC preaching points. In Nicaragua there are two preaching places with a new church in Managua. In Paraguay work is being carried on in both the Chaco and East Paraguay. There are also radio ministries in all these countries. Mr Reimer earnestly challenged young people to take up the work of missions. Lucille Wiens reported on her work as a medical missionary in the Chaco of Paraguay. She covered an area which took in some 8000 people. She also related of the joy of the Indians when they received a Bible in their own language. They told her that now they need no longer say “the mission ary said” but can read it themselves. It was touching to hear her give a greeting from one of the Indians who said “Tell the people where you go, remember to pray for one another." “How little I knew what was ahead of me" said Dora Friesen, as she relat ed of beginnings at Rio Grande Bible Institute, where she is dean of Latin girls. She supervises girls from seven different countries. Her work lies in the area of conduct, discipline and gratis work. She also stated that since 1963 some 27 EMC missionaries had studied at RGBI. Sister Friesen is home on furlough. Mr Calverly is superintendent of the Union Gospel Mission in Winnipeg’s cont’d on page 6
S.B.L choral serving at one of the sessions during the missionary conference.
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God, our attitude towards our hus band, our attitude towards the work he is doing, as to whether we are furthering it or whether we are break ing it.” Mrs Reimer: “I felt that praying for my husband was a privilege and also a duty. So often our husbands would go on treks and you wouldn’t know when they would be back...” She con tinued with the following additional comment. “I found that one of my duties was to always have my home open to Ethiopian women. (Once when she decided to let the person Seen here are the ladies participating in the panel discussion. They are Mrs. Elma Reim- knock it wasn t long till she saw eyes er, Mrs. Jean Penner, Mrs. Kathy Ebner, and Mrs. Helen Pope. peering into the bedroom window.) “If you’re too busy for them they won’t come again. And they’ll tell all the other ladies...”
Missionary Panel A feature of great interest at the ways expected is when they build a recent SBI Missionary Conference house the lady has to be right in it... was a panel conducted on Thursday carry bricks and things like that, afternoon. The panel of four ladies Where she does not do that she is consisted of Mrs. Rollin Reimer considered lazy...” (Ethiopia), Mrs Lome Penner Mrs Penner: (Testimony of na(Ethiopia), Mrs Joe Pope (Northern tional) “This man (Mr Penner) really Canada), and Mrs Frank Ebner (Aus- loves his wife. He doesn’t beat her. tria). I’ve never heard them quarrel, and Mrs Reimer was in charge. The I’ve even heard him bathing the main theme centered around “The babies.” ' , " Mrs Reimer: “The love between us Joys, Frustrations and' Challenge of" a missionary wife and a missionary was a real testimony to the national They see that our husbands mother” under the following headings: families. t 1. Example of the missionary wife love us...” Under the same point Mrs Reimer and her husband and their relation asked Mrs Penner’ to tell how the ship to the nationals. 2. Our duties as a missionary wife, nationals feel about the missionary 3. Our example as a missionary having only one wife. mother, to the nationals. Mrs Penner: “Some of them don’t 4. Our duties as a missionary really believe it. In our case we had mother in the home. a single missionary nurse living (The word “national” always refers with us. A lot of the nationals used to the people of that country.) 1to say ‘She’s your old wife and this Following are some of the answers one is your new wife.’ But when they given to the points listed. tgot to know us a little better they 1. Example of the Missionary Wife got to ................. believe... ” 2. Our Duties as a Missionary Wife: and her Husband and their relation (Some of the answers) ship to the nationals: Mrs Penner: “A real commitment to Mrs. Pope: “Unity between my husband and myself in our common trust the Lord Jesus Christ. He’s got to in God was very important.” Also come first in our lives.” Mrs Ebner: ‘ Having the home ready “they (the Indians) found it very hard to understand that my husband for my husband at any time and any hour...” and I wouldn’t fight.” Mrs Pope: “Our attitude towards Mrs Ebner: “One thing that is al-
Friday, April 9,1971
3. Our Example as a Missionary Mother to the Nationals: Mrs Reimer started with: “We are watched very closely as to how we treat our children. Their children are not disciplined. We felt we had a real ministry in showing them how we brought up our children.” The question asked of the panel was “Have any of you got anything to say as to how you had a special min istry with your children that would teach something to the national mo thers?” Mrs Pope: “Motherly love and con cern for our children is very im portant.” Mrs Penner: (The nationals would say) “She has children, she understands us. ” Stealing and lying are common among Ethiopian children. Mrs Reimer was an example in not allowing this in her children. 4. Duties of a Missionary Mother in the Home: Mrs ”Penner: “...there is no place like home for the barriers to be down. What you say has to be borne out by what you are. One of the first things that is important in the training of the child on the mission field
is the right attitude towards the nationals.” Mrs Pope: “It is very important that we have the cooperation of our children in our mission work.” “Children are honest newspapers, When they are together with the other children... what their impressions are of the home naturally will
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be related...if the nationals don’t observe it, the children will discuss it. For that reason a good home relationship is very important." Mrs Reimer: "Jean and I both have the experience that our children leave us and go to school when they are six years old. And because of that we as mother have a real responsibility to our children the first six years.,..” Mrs Penner: "It is important that the child gets the right attitude to wards the life and call of the par ents...they need to feel that they are part of the work." Mrs Ebner: "Keep the children in volved... we took them along in tract distribution..." A concluding remark on the topic was made by Mrs Reimer. "Sending our children off to school really speaks to the nationals. We had one lady come and visit our home one time. We had our family picture in the living room and this lady asked ‘Who are these two children?' " After Mrs Reimer told her they were hers and that they sent them off to school the lady remarked: “What, you sent those small children off to school? You are very evil!" But she contin ued "You must love God very much to do that." So when they see that we send our children off to school they see that we mean business with God and that we have a real love for God and alsodor them..."
SBI cont’d
north end. He narrated a silent film on the happenings at the Mission from day to day. The work of the Union Gospel Mis sion began 37 years ago. Some 25,000 to 35,000 men go through its doors per year. The men receive everything free, which includes meals as well as cloth ing where there is a need. Some had questioned this policy but Mr Calverly explained that with a hungry man and a storm outside it had some merit. Miss Eva Koop gave a slide report of Ethiopia. Other participants were Fred Fries en, Nicaragua: Joe Pope, Northern Canada; Frank Ebner, Austria; Wil liam Peters. Page 6
A film “Like a Mighty Army" was viewed on Friday afternoon. It showed the work of church growth in one particular church in the U.S. This is the Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church at Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This congregation has grown from less than 50 to some 2000 members in about 10 years, the secret being lay involvement. 'Various mission boards also featur ed missionary displays in the display
room. Here one could pick up litera ture and view different crafts from var ious countries, as well as talk with mis sion representatives. Sessions were open to the public and many availed themselves of the oppor tunity to hear the speakers. Day meet ings were in the Institute while the evening sessions were held in the local Bergthaler Church.
S.B.I. students Leona Kehler, Sylvia Dueck, Betty Friesen and Esther Reimer looking at the Mexico display at the recent S.B.I. Conference.
Your Mission Board Canada Committee The Canada Committee over sees the work of some 13 churches in Manitoba, Sask atchewan and British Colum bia. The chairman is Rev. Ben Friesen (sitting). Other members are I. to r. Ben P. Penner, Glen Sawatzky, and Melvin Dueck. (Missing from picture is P. F. Klassen.) The Canada Committee oper ating budget for 1971 is $44,508. The Committee goal is to build autonomous churches which will be self-governing and self-supporting. In other words, local administration. Pray for this committee which is concerned for home outreach.
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THE MESSENGER
- Not acquainted with philosophy undergirding curriculum construction of individual publishers. - Peace marches, anti-government, and American oriented content in Herald Materials.
Solutions - Get a statement of philosophy undergirding curriculum construction from publishers. - Develop your own curriculum for a part of the Sunday School year. One of the topics mentioned “Anabaptist History”.
REACHING AND RETAINING TEENAGERS
£ M. C. Sunday School Superintendents Seminar Visitation For some time it had been felt that we should convene an EMC Sun day School Superintendent's Seminar. Problem: Why is visitation such a It became a reality on March 20 when hang up? A. Because we lack the concern of some 35 people, superintendents. Board of Education members and Christ for the individual soul, we other interested people gathered at overlook the importance of the per the Braeside church in Winnipeg for sonal visit and too often look for ex a morning and an afternoon session cuses not to do it. to discuss common concerns relative Q. Is the child the end or means to the Sunday School. to an end in visitation? (The child is The program patterns called for in Sunday School.) A. We should use this relationship two distinct encounters. The fore noon was devoted to problem stating to reach the family. It opens up a while the afternoon was given over means of effective outreach. The to problem solving. basic goal is to reach the whole fam The entire body was divided into ily. Q. How can we motivate for visit four groups. Secretaries of each group brought findings to a public ation? A. We need to motivate and inspire session and report on what had taken place in the small group. our workers with training. We need Each small group wrestled with to demonstrate how the job can be one main issue facing the superin done. tendent today. The issues were: MATERIALS 1. Materials 2. Reaching and Retaining Teenagers Current Problems as Sunday School Students 3. Visitation - Not enough teacher helps 4. Teachers - The material is geared more to The following is part of what trans urban areas pired. Not all problems or all sug - Scripture Press makes too much gested answers are given. of sports
Friday, April 9,1971
Current Problems - Students are bored - Outward indifference - Teachers probably do not under stand teenagers - Lack of involving teens in mean ingful church activity - Irrelevance of traditional Sunday School approach to teens
Solutions - Engage in outside class activities - The teacher must have an aim - Do not dodge scriptural problems - Involve them in activity - Parents should show greater interest.
THE TEACHER Current Problems
- Lack of Spirit-filled life - Selecting and placing staff - Lack of leadership - Absent at Teacher Training ses sions - Discipline - Qualification of the teacher
Solutions - Ask for the Spirit - Discuss problems - Superintendent needs personal contact with teachers - Parent-teacher communication
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N60M A The
OrwnL
by Elsie Milligan NGOMA GOES TO SCHOOL
at the boys while they kept up a cease less chatter amongst themselves. Early the next morning, the village Ngoma picked up some pebbles from boys accompanied their two friends the bed of the stream and threw them Ngoma and Tshombe for a little way on lightly, one by one, up at the montheir journey. When they reached the keys. This caused a great increase in first stream, they turned back as is the the chattering, and one little fellow. Samba custom. more daring than the others, caught “Endenu” (Walk well), theysaid in one of the pebbles in his small paw parting greeting. and quick as lightning threw it back “Stay well,” (Shalenu) repliedNgoma at the boys. This was great fun and and Tshombe, then they hurried after Ngoma and Tshombe soon forgot their the carriers of the Bwana. tiredness in playing with the monkeys. They were in the highest spirits for and splashing each other. were they not setting out on a great Refreshed by the bath , they went up adventure. Never before had they to the camp to do their share of the been more than a few miles from their camp work. After the evening meal home village. They knew nothing of the the carriers gathered as usual round world beyond. Like boys of their age the campfire. As the doctor and his all the world over they were thrilled wife sat resting by the fire and listenat the thought of venturing forth to ing to the chatter of their men, they new country and new experiences. marvelled, as they had so often done By the end of the second day’s trek, before, at the fluency with which they however, their spirits were somewhat talked and the expressive gestures damped by the extreme soreness of that they used, their hands taking altheir feet. As soon as they reached most as much part in the conversation camp that afternoon, the two boys as their tongues. went limping down to the nearby After a while, when it was time to stream. What a relief it was to put turn in for the night, the Bwana called their blistered aching feet into the for silence while he commended them cool water. Soon they slipped in al- all to the care of God, asking for His together and lay there on the sandy protecting care over the camp throughbed of the shallow stream letting the out the hours of darkness. water flow over them. Above their Ngoma and Tshombe spread their heads the spreading branches of the sleeping mats side by side beside a trees on either side of the little small fire of their own. For a time river almost met, and the boys had they lay there looking up at the bright great fun watching the little grey mon- stars in the sky above them, keys as they swung themselves from “Where does this Mwanta Yesu (Lord branch to branch or along the heavy Jesus) live, that the Bwana talks so rope-like vines which intertwined the much about?” asked Tshombe. branches. The monkeys peered down “Up there somewhere is His village,”
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said Ngoma, pointing to the sky above them. But Davidi told me that He is also near to us down here. He said that though we can’t see Him with the eyes of our heads, we can see Him with the eyes of our hearts, and that if we speak to Him, He will hear us.” “Just like the spirits,” remarked Tshombe. “I think it s different,” said Ngoma. “Davidi says He is not angry like the spirits. He loves us, and whoever heard of the spirits doing that! ” So Ngoma and Tshombe discussed the One of whom they were now hear ing for the first time, and into the darkness of their young hearts, the first glimmer of the light of the Chris tian Gospel was beginning to shine. Two more days’ journey brought them to the Mission. How amazed the two boys were to see the enthusiastic wel come given to the white people as they approached the low hill on which the station was built! Men, women and children came running out to greet them, clapping their hands and sing ing greeting songs of welcome. They were still more astonished when they saw the buildings, the school and hos pital buildings and the Mission houses. But Davidi hurried them off to the School Compound where they were in troduced to Mr Nelson the School Bwana. He in turn took them down to the boarding school compound and left them with Shimoni, the Christian African helper who took charge of the boys there. He welcomed them warmly and took them to the big dorm itory where they would sleep with ten other boys. He showed them the wash-house where, to their amaze ment, he touched a piece of metal sticking out from the wall and lo and behold water came gushing out! “You need not go down to the river here to wash,” he explained to them, “you can get all the water you need here.” The other boys present laughed at the astonished faces of the new boys. Later on, too, Shimoni touched the dormitory wall and the place was flooded with light. As our two young friends blinked their eyes at the elec tric light, they wondered what sort of magic it was which could produce such wonders.
to be cont’d THE MESSENGER
I
I Christian Service Brigade in Action.
Christian Service Brigade
At home these boys have during their regular meetings, observed a ham-set radio in operation at Abe Bestvater’s house and several boys interested in aviation have been re ceiving lessons in aeronautics from the ground up, given by local pilot John Barkman. How do the leaders keep up? By giving their time and abilities and by continuing their own training when ever possible. Bert Kroeker and Clarence Dyck took their One-Star training course in the city recently. An advanced two-star course, given in Winnipeg consisted of 12 hours of classroom instruction and numer ous homework research projects, was taken in five evening sessions by Dave Penner and Ben Dueck this winter. A ‘Father-Son’ banquet took place in our church on March 1. On the pro gram were the Bergthaler male quar tet, a Battalion presentation by Cap tain Dave Penner and three Brigad iers, and a Stockade item by Chief Ranger Adolf Koop who presented two Stockaders who had done excel lent work in achievements. Crown ing the evening was a power-packed talk by Captain John Klassen of the River East M B. church in Winnipeg. He spoke on the spiritual aspects of Brigadier and C.S.B. leaders. A chance to see what other church es are doing came for Ben Dueck when he was invited to speak at the Portage Avenue M.B. church at their Brigade-Stockade program on Feb. 21. Interesting features of the eve ning included an achievement testing of a Stockader by his Ranger and a series of slides with taped commen tary, showing the C.S.B. boys and men of the church interacting. In conclusion I believe the church has every right to expect both faith and action from its members. The hour is late and the cause too critical to live simply for one’s own needs. C.S.B. is one area of action packed Christ-centered work, geared to boys and has dedicated men as leaders.
self-evaluation which is sometimes a painful process ”. Adolf Koop. Chief Stockade Ranger If I were a boy today — say somewhere between the age of 8 and 18, says that their physical activities this I would want to be a Brigadier or a winter have included a floor hockey Stockader. If, however, I was an tournament, skidooing, games, and older man, I would most assuredly individual post outings. In their work want to have an active part in the shop periods they have built bread boards, picnic tables and house num Christian Service Brigade program. bers. After this physical exercise Why? Because I see a new generation of boys coming over the horizon, the boys are willing to settle down and we must address ourselves to and join in Story-Circle and Bible them in their language. Boys who don’t study. Stockade boys (ages 8 to 11) want to lie around, waiting to be dis- are very receptive to the gospel and covered. They're going somewhere - enjoy the man-boy relationships, not gathering' Recognition for achievements is givgathering moss. But what boy wants to gather moss anyhow? To en whenever a boy has satisfactorily Junior, all the world’s a stage and he covered a set number of carefully is one of the chief actors. planned and balanced achievements For this reason C.S.B. came into in outdoor activities, workshops, ex being in December of 1937. Since ploring God’s Word, service and physthen it has grown to about 12,500 boys ical fitness. and 4,450 trained leaders in Canada Battalion Captain Dave Penner, with alone. This fellowship of men and the older boys, cooked their own meals boys shares the common interest and and slept out in 20-below-zero weachallenge to live “bright and keen for ther in the Sandilands area one night. Christ”. In this setting Dave found the boys Our church, after carefully feeling especially receptive to God’s Word, its way, took on this program in Jan- Another outing enjoyed by this uary, 1968 and now has an enroll- age of boys was horse-drawn sleigh ment of 76 boys and 12 leaders active- rides, through bushes and over bumps, ly involved in Brigade. In Stockade followed by a wiener roast. /...J And on Ranger Pete Hieberfs words, “It be- March 6th two leaders and seven hooves us to consider how we can noncoms went ice fishing at Buffalo best help all boys, so that some need Bay. not feel neglected while others get too much attention. The group situa tion is a tool where they learn one from the other. We want this group April 8-18 - Special services at Ridgewood with Rev. Melvin Koop as speakto learn to be positive. Therefore, throughout the week, the leader must April 11-23 - Special services at Prairie Rose with Rev. Henry Dyck of Ft. be an example to the boys wherever Wayne, Ind. II they see him. This means regular by Helena Dueck
Qalendar 1“'
Friday. April 9.1971
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with Ike churches
Souls are saved under these adverse con ditions whereas in our country Christians are living an easy life and few are added to the kingdom. Many Christian parents STRATTON his health and time. He is the author of of those countries have their children 23 books, speaks 14 languages, including taken away by the state with force, but Wurmbrand Draws Big Crowd German and English. He is a Jew, and through faith and prayer they still hold to a Lutheran and the pastor of the Under the Christian faith even though separat ed. We, maybe without realizing it, are Through reading books and material ground Church. written by Richard Wurmbrand on the On the 19th about 1000 people gathered giving our children over to the seducing suffering and working of the Underground in the auditorium. Rev Johnston from spirit of the world around about us and Church in Communist lands, the Stratton the Border Evangel Society chaired the losing them for all eternity. Take heed! brethren were led to enquire about the meeting. A few hymns were sung, Bro. Matt. 24:4, Mark 13:9. possibilities of having the author come to P. B. Reimer read the Scripture and had Jake K. Friesen our area and bring us a personal mes opening prayer. After the message the sage on Christian struggles going on be Gerber family sang “The Cross is not hind the Iron Curtain. His answer was Greater than His Grace”. Bro. Wurm HERON that he was willing to come out on the brand took his message from Luke 22, 19th of February if a worthwhile crowd especially stressing the part where the was to be expected, considering his cock crew and Jesus looked into Peter’s Have we been transferred to a south health and limited time. face. He mentioned he was only the cock ern location without being aware of Our area is a sparsely populated one, crowing, but he pleaded with us to look the move? Well, the surroundings are so we contacted Rev John Gerber from at Jesus' face. For doing this we cannot about the same, except for less than the Fort Frances. He seemed interested and have our backs turned to Him. He has usual amount of snow. The weather cer interviewed different people in Fort been trying to make us realize that the tainly has been mild for most of the win Frances and International Falls and ar suffering Christians is the body of Christ ter. There has been considerable travell ranged for the renting of the Backus Jun suffering. When Saul (later Paul) met ior High School auditorium in Interna Jesus on the road to Damascus Jesus ing for which the mild weather and good did not ask him, “Why do you persecute roads were most favorable. On Feb. 21 tional Falls. The 18th of February came and Mr the disciples” but he asked “Why do you the Ronald Penners moved from Pelly, and Mrs Wurmbrand arrived at Inter persecute me?" And he also mentioned Sask, to Vanderhoof, B.C. so the Died national Falls by plane as scheduled. that Jesus' address in Russia was Matt. rich Thiessens and the Ben Thiessens, They were received into our car with 25:44, not the one church in Moscow from our congregation here, gave them out much attention. We wondered if with seven million inhabitants where the a helping hand and took their belongings people of this calibre would need spe state leaves the impression on the West down for them. The Peter P. Thiessens ventured out cial state protection in view of all the ern people that there is religious free opposition they have experienced in the dom in Communist countries. The thou as far as Winnipeg and Steinbach to different countries especially from the sands of martyrs and prisoners are visit their family. This was the first time since Mr Thiessen took ill in Oc Communists, and knowing that our be evidence against this. After the message a question period tober. loved country is not free from this el Last week the Menno Thiessens with ement either. But they seemed surpris followed where many were answered. ingly at ease and confident in the Lord It was stated that there is evidence that some of their family made a trip to that all would be well. We had no troub about 50 percent of our help arrives Swift Current to visit friends. Apparent le taking them across the border into for the needy families of the prisoners, ly they had quite a blizzard to contend and about 75 percent of the literature with on the way home. Canada. Other members again have been con The rest ~ The Gerbers were meanwhile pray arrives at designated areas. ing for a safe crossing and had the din may be lost on the ocean or destroyed. fined to the house more or less during the winter months. Among them are the ner meal ready when we arrived. The It is costly, but well worthwhile. After the service Br. Wurmbrand dis Herman Friesens who had prolonged privilege of dining together was wonder ful and the Lord was praised. Especial appeared to resting quarters but Mrs cases of colds that developed into bron ly were we amazed at the happiness of Wurmbrand stayed and exchanged greet chitis. Mrs Friesen was hospitalized for the visiting couple. They have been re ings and autographed books of which a five days, but we were glad to see her leased from fourteen years of prison in number were sold. Most popular were in church again after that. Also Brother Menno Thiessen has his Rumania by a ransom of seven thousand the books "Tortured for Christ” and “The relapses and has been hospitalized sev Pastor's Wife". dollars and the miracles of God. I believe the Wurmbrands really have eral times during the winter. He is also They have since established the mis sion of “Jesus to the Communist World " something to say to us and it should chal to undergo more physical examinations lenge us to intercede for the suffering again in Winnipeg after Easter regard in 26 countries. The Minister's supper was held in a Christians, and doesn't it humble us when ing his heart condition. Let us remember those that are ill Fort Frances hotel where many ques we hear how earnestly they are praying or lonely and take time for them. tions were asked and answered about for us? We are happy for another open door We may notice some viewpoints that the Underground Christians. Due to hav ing had a spell of pneumonia a few we would not agree with, but who are we to serve the Lord and witness for Him. weeks ago, Mr Wurmbrand spent much to judge, not having been in the shoes they The Redvers Senior Citizens Home re of the time at the Gerber home resting. are in and we have had the Bible truths ceived us with a warm welcome when It was remarkable how a man of that all our lives. They have been deprived our young people brought the first pro stature was able to discipline himself of the Word of God and the knowledge they gram there in February, started on a so as not to let other people roo bim ot have of it they are putting into practice. monthly basis. Page 10
THE MESSENGER
and Elmer Friesen who spent the win sionaries are surely more effective than we ordinary ones. ter months working at Thompson. March 21 our church bulletin read, “Mini Wedding vows were made by Miss On February 10 the Sunday School teachers enjoyed an evening of fellow- Sandra Schellenberg, daughter of the Bill Sunday School Convention.” However, ship. After a hot supper we saw the Schellenbergs, of Morris and Brian Klas- there was nothing mini about the hearty film “The Big Blast”. I believe it challeng- sen at Morris Fellowship Chapel, on Feb. 13. Christian ideas and advice we received ed us all anew. Reception followed in the lower auditorium. from Rev. John D. Reimer of the M.B. I was told the Youth Fellowship Vai- Congratulations and God’s blessing to church of Steinbach, concerning the teach entine’s banquet, held February 20 was you, Sandra and Brian, as you make your ing and training of our children. We divided into small discussion groups once more a smashing success. South- new home in Altona. ern-fried chicken, music or singing by Our prayers also follow Jim and Mar and came up with many, but two outstand groups from the various churches and ie Scott who moved from Morris to Kel- ing points: communication between teach er and child, and using short stories to the film, “Worlds Apart” were the high- loe, Man. lights of a wonderful evening. Our pastor is presently serving at drive home a point. On March 27 the choir had an over We had the privilege of having Rev evening services at Roseisle, Man. The Henry Klippensteins reported to whelmingly successful bake sale. Proceeds and Mrs Don P. Shidler with us for special meetings March 25 to 28. The morn- us on March 21, prior to leaving for went for choir gowns. A while back our choir went to sing at ing Bible study in Romans was a real Austria in May, under Child Evangel blessing as well as the evening services ism Fellowship. Slides were shown, the Selkirk hospital, while the Junior choir and pictures. and a presentation made of the field they sang at the Extended Care Unit. Also the are entering. Sewing Circle had a Valentine party at the Quite a number of our congregation Rest Haven. To see all of these patients’ participated in presenting the play in faces light up makes me wonder why we the Rosenort Elementary on “Seedtime don’t do these things more often. ROSEISLE and Harvest”. Tjiere is blessing in workSome come, some go. Lillian Friesen came for a short holiday Deeper Life Services have been held ing in harmony for the Lord. Proceeds from Saskatoon, Sask, on Feb. 7. She is this month with Rev. C. B. Loewen as went to Steinbach Bible Institute, speaker. We were indeed happy for the Our sincere sympathy is extended to working for the Western Tract Mission many who came to hear. It stirred our Henry and Leona Dueck in the loss of managing a book store. It was good seeing hearts to see the many commitments made their mother, Mrs P. U. Brandt; also to you Lillian. The three Koop sisters, Sara, Agnes and at the final service. It’s a real inspiration to Mr Brandt and the family. Elizabeth decided to go. They left some at work in the lives of people. May we time in February for LaRonge, Sask, to show forth fruits of a revived church in cook for a crew of construction men. I won our neighborhood. KLEEFELD CHURCH NEWS der, girls, have you ever before seen food Other recent visitors to our church have been Rev Menno Kroeker, the GladWhy is spring so exciting? Because it is disappear so fast in so short a time? The Pete Peters have gone on a threewin Pletts, Wayne Herod and a group filled with a new hope of better things to from the S.B.I. come. Why is being a Christian so wonder- week holiday to see their children in Oma Congratulations go out to George and ful? Because we too are filled with hope of ha and California. They might even meet Vern and Edith Fast out in sunny Califor Anna Loeppky on the birth of a lovely much better things to come. daughter. May God bless your home. Part of our ’filling’ came this week-end, nia. Another one going is Wayne Herrod, can March 25 at our Mission Conference with Rev. Ed Friesen as our first speaker. He didate missionary to Africa. He gave a not only talked of souls being saved, but heart-warming testimony on Feb. 21. MORRIS FELLOWSHIP CHAPEL Mr Jacob D. Fast, Dora Friesen, Kurt ‘proofs’ along. One, a Mexican young man, the other a Bolivian, Schwartz, Henry I. Dueck, and Martin Get well wishes to Mrs Arlene Loe- each giving a thrilling testimony of God's Dueck all had a short stay at the hospital, wen who was in Morris Hospital for three saving grace. There we were sitting in the but are happy to report all are back at work weeks with a spinal condition, now re- same church, worshipping the same God, and school, except the latter two who we cuperating at home and to Mrs Klassen despite the difference of skin colour or na- prayerfully hope will soon follow suit. Mrs Cecil Fast was critically iH from hem of Morris Manor who was also hospital- tionality. We were brothers and sisters in orrhaging March 21. God has miraculously ized. Christ! Congratulations to John and Mary Dyck The children sat spell bound as Dora kept her; though still weak she is improv of 835 Riverwood Ave., Winnipeg on the Friesen told them of tar ott Mexican boys ing. What a wonderful God we have! arrival of Shauna Colleen and to Levi and girls. and Tina Reimer of Arborg, a son. On Friday night the S.B.I. choir filled MRS AGNES BRANDT A visitation project was launched at our church, our beings and our souls with 1899-1971 the last ladies meetings in which each the glorious message of Jesus Christ in member and her husband were ehcour- song. What a spiritual uplift! "Precious in the sight of the Lord is aged to pick some homes to visit before Sunday morning Roy Koop said that in the spring meetings to invite folk. We less than 20 years the Chippewa Indians the death of his saints". Psalm 116:15. It has pleased the Lord in His all are expecting Rev B. D. Reimer of Clear- have their own Bible School. brook, B.C. to speak to us from March “My Grace is sufficient for thee," be wise providence to call home my belov ed wife, mother and grandmother Agnes 28 to April 4. came a precious verse to Doris Thiessen. The young people, under the leader Rev. Alfred Friesen stressed that each (nee Loewen) Brandt. She was born to the late John D. Loe ship of Ernie Siemens, enjoyed skating one is a missionary, but after seeing his picin the St. Vital outdoors . rink recently, tures and the great work they have been wens in Rosenhoff, Man. on October 28, Welcome home ^to, Lawrence ' Kroeker doing in Nicaragua, I thought some mis- 1899 and passed away on March 19, 1971, ..i. Page 11 Friday, April 9,1971
KOLA
reaching the age of 71 years, 4 months, no hope,' hut rejoice to see her again on ber of songs. Rev Nick Friesen render the Great Resurrection morning. and 19 days. ed the English message, based on II Cor. The Family At the age of 17 she realized her need 5 and Amos 4:12 after which the obituary of the Saviour, repented of her sins and was read by Ben L. Kroeker. Rev John accepted Him as Lord of her life. Upon Funeral services were conducted on ny Loewen closed the service with the comforting words out of Rev. 21:7. this confession of faith she was bap March 24,1971 at the Rosenort EMC. tized and accepted into the Kleingemeinde Rev P. L. Friesen made the introduc Interment followed in the adjoining (now E.M. Church) fellowship by the tory remarks, reading from I Thessalon cemetery with Rev Jac. L. Kroeker con late Elder Peter R. Dueck on July 17, ians 4:13, 14 and led in prayer. The ducting the graveside service. 1917. She remained true to her vows choir led by Dave L. Friesen sang a num The Family until her death. On March 13, 1921 she was united to me, Peter U. Brandt, in the bonds of holy matrimony in the Rosenhoff church MDS Prepares for Disaster by the late Elder Jac. R. Dueck, Kleefeld. We have shared life’s joys and sorrows mixed-blood Metis. The Canadian cul by Delmar Stably for 50 years and 6 days. She remarked ture limits the Indians in both overt just recently how she enjoyed our work and subtle ways, as seriously as the ing together in the latter years when we “Unless the Word becomes flesh in United States discriminates against had retired from our farm in the year our time, we face a disaster.” So con blacks, Puerto Ricans and Mexicans. 1962. Eight different MDS units reported A week before she got her stroke, she cluded Cornelius L. Dick, professor that they had helped in the clean-up of sociology at Medicine Hat Junior had an attack of severe nausea and diz ziness which she had had several times College, Alberta, and an ordained work of Hurricane Celia in the Corpus on previous occasions. On March 11 minister, in his message at the ban Christi and surrounding areas of Tex at 7 p.m. while she started washing dish quet session of the Mennonite Disas as, Tornados as Sudbury, Ont.; Lub es, she suddenly suffered from a stroke ter Service All-Unit Meeting held in bock, Texas and Plainview, Texas which left her paralyzed and speechless. Calgary, Alberta, Feb. 12-13, 1971. also drew volunteers from nearby I managed to get her to the bed with dif areas. The largest flood of the year ficulty. I asked her if she could under Speaking on “Christian Responsibility was in Manitoba where spring thaws to Minorities in Time of Social Rev stand me; if so, she should press my hand, which she did. I called the children olution,” Dick challenged the MDS del brought the need for large scale pro and they immediately came and arranged egates to replace the false promises tection and the ensuing clean-up work. to take her to the Morris Hospital. Hin and meaningless babble of words char Discussions also went back to the dered by her diabetic condition, complic acteristic of Christendom today with enormous MDS actions in the after math of Hurricane Camille in Missis ations set in, and after four days, pneu-- something more substantial, monia was added to her already severe Two hundred delegates from MDS sippi and Virginia in 1969, as a num illness. Her condition steadily got units in the United States and Canada ber of units had continued their wit worse, staying in a semiconscious state participated in the two-day confer ness in these states well into 1970. till she passed away quietly shortly af ter 12 noon on Friday, March 19. The ence at three different meeting places Reports covered MDS cause of her death was a stroke or brain in Calgary. response to storm and flood in 1970 hemorrhage. She leaves to mourn her departure. and the increasing involvement of many me, her husband, John and wife Katie. units and individual congregations in an Easter Cantata B.C.; Justina in mission work, Mexico; rehabilitation of low cost housing in Eddy and wife Violet, Morweena; Paul urban areas. In two panel discussions will be performed by the and wife Myrtle, Morris; Alice and hus the questions and problems of racial band Ed Siemens, Roseisle; Loreen and and economic minorities in North Am Steinbach Bible Institute husband Jack Siemens, Morris; Leona erica were faced. The goal was for and husband Henry P. Dueck, Roseisle; Please note new date: also Mary Remple, being an orphan, more effective relationship between and who looked upon us as her foster our middle class, white Mennonite April 18 parents. Also left behind are 43 grand and Brethren in Christ constituencies, at 7:30 p.m. children, two sisters, Elizabeth, Mrs and the racial minorities and poverty John B. Thiessen, and Helena, Mrs Jac. stricken in United States and Canadian in the D. Remple; three brothers, Jacob, John cities. and Peter. Her parents predeceased her Emmanuel Free Church The first panel discussion centered in death, as well as two sisters, Annie, on the problems of the Indians in Can Everyone is Welcome Mrs P. J. Loewen and Mary (in adult ada — both the treaty Indian and the hood) and two sisters and four broth ers (in infancy). We express our sincere gratitude for all the love we have felt, the prayers that have been sent up to the throne of grace on our behalf, and for cards and help we have received. Nvn Thus we do not sorrow as ones who have
THE ATONEMENT
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THE MESSENGER
Nonm 1SV3