The Messenger Vol. 51 No 5 May 2013 by The Messenger

The Messenger Volume 51 No. 5 May 2013

HOPE: Identity protection – and Daniel p. 6 Young people, you do have a good future p. 9 The future of pacifism p. 11

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Editorials

Invitations at hand

eed positive reasons to join an EMC church? The EMC focuses on Jesus. Menno Simons said in 1557: “And we believe, moreover, that there is no other name under heaven given among men by whom we must be saved, other than in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ...” (Complete Writings, 958). Do we believe it because Menno said it? No, but he did say it. Because of this, we can have confidence in this servant of Jesus (1 Cor. 3:5). Menno’s theme verse was: “For no one can lay any other foundation than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ” (1 Cor. 3:11). The EMC officially combines evangelism and social justice. Scripture speaks about both, and the Church’s mission—both globally and locally—is to

integrate them. We need not choose between them. The EMC is cautious about the state and objects to war. True, individual members do not agree on to what extent Christians should be involved in politics, nor on what to do in some situations of violence. But caution is warranted: “Look before you leap.” We have a flexible view of ministry. The EMC elects ministers from within congregations, recognizes various educational routes, and levels the serving field between “clergy” and “laity.” Members care about practical service. This is shown in scores of ways. Some members even submit writing that if no good, they inform me, can be placed into the “garbage.” That is a practical statement indeed. Terry M. Smith

For no one can lay any other foundation than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.

••

To look more closely

ecently, Dr. Stuart Murray listed, without elaboration, five reasons why some people move away from Anabaptist churches. A response is possible, he said. Shall we say these generalizations don’t fit the EMC? A prudent public relations stance is to look more closely and ask questions. Anabaptist churches are now wealthy and conforming. What does a “simple lifestyle” mean today? A friend said to me that our EM Conference members have bought into materialism. How does our wealth influence our politics? Ethnic identity is a barrier. Our conference is developing a welcoming outreach and identity, but still sends double messages. How can we improve our welcome? Mission is elsewhere, not local. The EMC is mission-minded, yes, but how well do we

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balance local and global concerns? Do we divide the mission of Christ? Quietism. Does this mean discipleship lived in physical isolation, witness by lifestyle without words, or a rejection of social engagement? In each case, quietism is unfortunate. A lack of passion for or interest in Anabaptism. Murray encouraged tired people to draw upon other vital Christian streams and to reconsider early Anabaptism. How can we properly affirm the spirituality of the wider Church? Are we prepared to compare early Anabaptist teaching and practice with those of the Kleine Gemeinde (early EMC)? Such early differences remain challenging today. We need to care about the front door and the back door—and continue to make positive changes. Terry M. Smith

Table of Contents Features

Departments

Editorials

Pontius’ Puddle

Identity protection – and Daniel – Geralyn Wichers

Young people, you do have a good future! – Darryl G. Klassen

11 The future of pacifism? – Chrystie Kroeker Boggs

Columns 15 Writings Shared 16 An Education App

The Apostles’ Creed and EMC churches – Terry M. Smith

page

4 Letters 17 With Our Missionaries 20 With Our Churches 25 News 32 In Memory 32 Calendar 33 Shoulder Tapping

page

19 Thinking About An outward forcus – Ward Parkinson

34 Here and Far Away Pure Joy – Jocelyn R. Plett

35 Stewardship Today Don’t do as I do? – Dori Zerbe Cornelsen

page

36 Kids’ Corner

Who is Jesus? – Loreena Thiessen

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The Messenger

Letters

Volume 51 No. 5 May 2013

Moratorium on creation letters

EDITOR TERRY M. SMITH

ASSISTANT EDITOR ANDREW WALKER

Submissions to The Messenger should be sent to messenger@emconf.ca. The Messenger is the monthly publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. It is available to the general public. Its purpose is to inform concerning events and activities in the denomination, instruct in godliness and victorious living, inspire to earnestly contend for the faith. Letters, articles, photos and poems are welcomed. Unpublished material is not returned except by request. Views and opinions of writers are their own and do not necessarily represent the position of the Conference or the editors. Advertising and inserts should not be considered to carry editorial endorsement. The Messenger is published by the EMC Board of Church Ministries, 440 Main St, Steinbach, Man., and is a member of Meetinghouse and Canadian Church Press. Subscription rates 1 year $24 ($30 U.S., $45 foreign) 2 years $44 ($55 U.S., $85 foreign) 3 years $65 ($82 U.S., $125 foreign) Manitoba residents add 7% PST. Digital only subscriptions: $15 per year. Single copy price: $2 Subscriptions are voluntary and optional to people within or outside of the EMC. Subscriptions are purchased by the Conference for members and adherents. Change of address and subscriptions Undelivered copies, change of address and new subscriptions should be addressed to: 440 Main St, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 Phone: 204-326-6401 Fax: 204-326-1613 E-mail: messenger@emconf.ca www.emconference.ca/messenger Second-class postage paid at Steinbach, Manitoba. ISSN: 0701-3299 Publications Mail Agreement Number: 40017362 We gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage for our publishing activities. Advertising The Messenger does not sell advertising, but provides free space (classified and display) to enhance our Conference, its churches, boards, and ministries; inter-Mennonite agencies and educational institutions; and the wider church. Ads and inquiries should be sent to messenger@emconf.ca. THE MESSENGER schedule: No. 7– July 2013 issue (copy due June 21)

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After the magazine’s permitting a lengthy period of published discussion, there will now be a moratorium, for a year, on publishing letters on creation. This decision follows the magazine’s policy, which includes consultation with Board of Church Ministries executive members. During such a period, writers and readers are free to share their concerns with appropriate EMC boards, committees, and other structures. – Terry M. Smith Executive Secretary/Editor

No need to complicate it

Regarding Alan Kreider’s recent article Apprentices in Faith [April], I am uneasy about the institutionalization and ritualization his approach would create. For example, while the confirmation process in some denominations has benefits, it has also become so entrenched that peer, parental, and congregational pressure have become bigger motivators than the individual’s heart. There is an age people are expected to start, and an air of disapproval for those who have not participated. The points outlined by Kreider could easily become a “tradition” that leads people to an expected baptism rather than a desired one. There is a huge benefit to structured learning about our Christian faith, and clarification about denominational beliefs before becoming a member. However, I don’t think formal training is a prerequisite for baptism and, in fact, believe that

Guidelines for letters

Letters published are generally to comment on issues raised in The Messenger. The magazine reserves the right to edit letters for length, style, legality, and taste. Letters by regular mail and by fax must contain a handwritten signature with at least the writer’s first and last names and an address. For letters by e-mail, the writer’s name and e-mail address are deemed to be an electronic signature. The writer’s regular postal address is to be included in e-mail correspondence. The writer’s name and general address are to be published. In sensitive matters, names may be withheld. Letters to the editor should be 250 words or less. regimented requirements have been an intimidating barrier for many. In learning from the past, why an arbitrary Third Century choice instead of some of the first baptisms? Acts 2:38 says “repent and be baptized,” not “repent, take 18 months of classes, and be baptized.” In Acts chapter 8, when the eunuch asks Peter what prevented him from being baptized, Peter didn’t cite his lack of formal instruction. Peter’s reply was, “If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest.” In Acts 16, when the Philippian jailer and his household were saved, Peter and Silas “took them the same hour of the night” and baptized them. God made salvation simple and baptism accessible—there’s no need for added complications or constrictions. – Allan G. Lie Steinbach, Man.

Letters

General Board responds to creation issue We have received and appreciate the many letters regarding the February-March 2012 articles in The Messenger about creation. We would like to address some of the concerns that have been raised about the General Board’s response to the articles. When the articles were printed, there were both sentiments of anger and disappointment, as well as comments and letters of support. In response to a formal request, the General Board decided to address these concerns at that time. The General Board examined the position of the Conference to determine whether the articles had violated this position. The most recent statements on the creation account are from summary positions, accepted after a process of study and discussion, by formal vote of the EMC Ministerial in May 1985: The Literary Nature of Genesis 1-11 and Guidelines for Developing a Doctrine of Creation. As the General Board reviewed these papers in 2012, it agreed that these documents still provide an excellent guideline for our Conference today. While allowing for a variety of views on the interpretation of the creation account, they affirm God as the creator and they contain solid statements to guide our understanding of the doctrine of creation. Following the response to the creation articles, the Board of Church Ministries examined whether the editor of The Messenger had acted appropriately in publishing the articles. The BCM agreed that the articles were within the mandate and purpose of the magazine. The Board of Leadership and Outreach examined the articles for consistency to the EMC Statement of Faith and the 1985 papers, and agreed that they were consistent. The General Board affirmed the work of both the BCM and the BLO in this matter. We acknowledge that the articles raised some questions that could be perceived to go beyond these 1985 statements. We would encourage all discussion to respect the framework of the 1985 statements even as questions are pursued. Some letter writers have asserted that a literal six-day creation is the only position that is doctrinally sound, and that any other view would cause division. In the minutes of the 1985 meeting, it should be noted that the EMC Ministerial specifically avoided affirming a single model for creation, including the literal six-day creation, because this would cause division. It also stated that interpretation issues should not detract us from our main calling to build God’s kingdom and share the good news. We as a General Board affirm these commitments, and invite all members to embrace these commitments as well. The General Board affirms, as do the 1985 statements, that Scripture and science do not ultimately conflict. We further affirm, as foundational and unique, the inspiration and authority of Scripture. In light of the EMC Ministerial’s 1985 statements, we would also ask those who differ to allow more freedom and charity in exploring the relationship between Scripture and science. To guide this discussion, the General Board is publishing a pamphlet that describes the EMC position in more detail. Our common commitment is to Christ and to each other. – Richard Klassen, Moderator on behalf of the General Board May 8, 2013

Letters continued on p. 14 ➢

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Identity protection – and Daniel

IMAGE: THE DORE BIBLE ILLUSTRATIONS

by Geralyn Wichers

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nce in a while I have an out of body experience. It happens in the thick of a bitter rant, a crude joke, or a selfish

decision. I see myself and wonder, “Who is that? And why is she in my body?” It’s like I’ve become someone else whom I dislike. It’s like someone kicked me out and took over, like someone stole my identity. Identity theft is a big scare these days, and for good reason. I got suckered by a phone scam just the other day—I, who should know better. I usually keep a close eye on my personal information. I hide my pin number. I invent strong passwords. But what about my true identity, who I am in Christ? What about the “new creation” that I am? Is that being stolen from under my nose? In anyone would know about identity theft, Daniel would. He was a teenager when he was dragged from Israel to Babylon. Then his captors tried to force him into the mold of a Babylonian courtier.

they learned the basics of Babylonian culture, the language and literature (Dan. 1:4). They even learned the arts of divination and omen interpretation, practices forbidden in the Law of Moses (Lev. 19:26). It was not just knowledge that these men were immersed in. It was also lifestyle. It was the privilege of the young men to eat the fine food and wine from the king’s table. At this point Daniel stood up to protect his identity. He asked for vegetables and water instead.

Why the threat?

Why did the King’s food threaten his identity? John Calvin explains: “We know how far enticements prevail to deceive us; especially when we are treated daintily; and experience [shows] us how difficult it is to be moderate when all is affluence around us.” Daniel realized that the decadent, courtly lifestyle threatened to make him “fall away from piety and the worship of God” (Calvin). A meagre diet, on the other hand, kept him mentally sharp. It may have also been his way of remembering that he was a captive far from home (Calvin). Furthermore, Daniel had three friends with him who believed as he did. Together they rejected the Babylonian delicacies. When Daniel needed God’s wisdom, Joyce Baldwin said he sought “like-minded companions to join him in prayer for a revelation” (Dan. 11:1-13; 2:17-18). Later, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego demonstrated their faith and strength of character by refusing to worship the king’s statue. The friends stood together and were true to their identity. But in the end, it was Daniel’s hardy relationship with God that kept his identity unscathed. Throughout the book he is seen praying, fasting and reading Scripture (Dan. 2:18-19; 9:2-3). Even when praying to Yahweh was outlawed by King Darius, Daniel still kept up his custom of prayer (Dan. 6:10). “He preferred meeting [death] fearlessly rather than ceasing from the duty of piety” (Calvin). He knew that God was in control of his life. ➢

In hindsight we can see how God orchestrated events. Daniel could not see ahead. Still, he remained faithful.

Daniel never forgot

Yet even dressed in Babylonian robes, head filled with foreign languages and literature, Daniel never forgot who he was. He was a servant of God. Daniel refused to be lured away by the benefits of his new lifestyle. He stuck close with a group of like-minded friends and he clung tightly to God, believing God was in control. He never lost his identity, and God used him to do great things. I believe this is applicable to me. Daniel wasn’t alone in his predicament. Upon the sack of Jerusalem, the brightest, most promising, handsome young Israelite men were taken to serve in the Babylonian court. Their captors’ first aim was to strip them of their Israelite identity and reprogram them as good little Babylonians. First, their Israelite names were taken away and replaced with new ones—symbols of Babylon’s culture and faith (Dan. 1:7). Then,

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God orchestrated events

PHOTO: DESIGN PICS

In hindsight we can see how God orchestrated events. Daniel could not see ahead. Still, he remained faithful. God caused Daniel and his friends to excel at their schooling so that at the end of three years there was none equal to them (Dan. 1:19-20). God granted them wisdom and understanding. He gave Daniel the ability to interpret dreams (Dan. 1:17). Together these abilities were the ticket that allowed them to influence kings. Their legacy outlasted them through the book of Daniel: a book that showed a struggling Israel that God was in control of their history and destiny. It continues to teach us this today.

Maintaining our identity

I know that I am God’s workmanship, created to do the good works he has prepared for us (Eph. 2:10). I have written out my identity: Christian first, then sister, daughter, friend, citizen, artist and scholar. That’s who I am. I even have it on my fridge. But I forget. There are “delicacies” that lure me away from this God-given purpose. I am enticed by time-wasting activities. I get consumed by my to-do list. I listen to my negative self and the negative people around me. I do not discipline myself to pray and study as Daniel did. Then I step back, see myself, and wonder what happened. It helps to be a part of a community of

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I have written out my identity: Christian first, then sister, daughter, friend, citizen, artist and scholar. believers—kindred spirits. My busyness, selfinterest and self-absorption can get in the way, yet I realize this community is a vital “identity maintenance program.” As Daniel’s friends stood for the same values and helped him in his critical moments, so my fellow believers support me and I can support them. And, unless God “prop us up by his special aid, we know how entirely we should be reduced to nothing” (Calvin). Prayer, praise and the reading of Scripture remind me who is in charge. It keeps my eyes and ears on my God. My efforts—the to-do list, the entertainment, the looking out for number one—aren’t what propel my life. My plan isn’t who I am. My identity lies with God’s plan. And so, I must cling to that identity. I live in a hostile culture. Yes, my faith is often looked down upon as intellectually deficient. Yes, Christians are viewed as hypocrites. But worse, North American culture is full of delicacies. It’s easy to scurry from one activity to the next without direction. It’s fine—expected, actually—to fill time with empty entertainment. It’s acceptable not to be excellent at what I do. People even say, “Don’t work too hard” instead of “Goodbye.” I can’t afford to think like that. If God has given me an identity and a plan for my life, then I must cling to this, and work it out with fear and trembling (Phil. 2:12). If not, it will be stolen from me and I will bear no fruit. And, face it, our country needs fruit. Geralyn Wichers (Anola) graduated from Steinbach Bible College with a Diploma of Biblical Studies in 2012. She is a teacher, a musician, and a storyteller. Sources: Daniel commentaries by Joyce G. Baldwin, John Calvin, Jim Edlin, and Tremper Longman III.

PHOTO: DESIGN PICS

PHOTO: DREAMSTIME

PHOTO: DESIGN PICS

Young people, you do have a good future! by Darryl G. Klassen

igh school graduates, young adults, and the newly married, I hate to tell you this, but the prosperity bubble is popping. But you do have a good future. For six decades North Americans have enjoyed increasing financial freedom and lived as if it would never end. It might not end soon, but finding a job you like, getting married, and raising a family in a home you own will look a lot different than what you grew up with. Considering this uncertain future for our high school graduates and young adults, what hope is there for you in an increasingly unstable economy? Young adults the world over are Twittering and Facebooking their anxiety over unemployment concerns and political systems that appear to disregard their future. How do we, the Church, speak hope into your lives when your worldview is full of disillusionment and cynicism? How do we integrate our faith with your reality?

A reality check

“Reality” is a principle concept in this conundrum. For decades we have swallowed the predominant propaganda of the American Dream, adopted by Canadians as well, of what makes for a successful and happy life. If we attain employment that pays 100k per year, a spouse, 1.5 children, a house and a two-car garage, we might enjoy the security and comfort of a normal life. That’s the Dream standard. But dreams are not reality.

Rebooting by the gospel

So the first order of business for young adults today is to reconfigure what reality is in your context. Rebooting the standard according to the gospel of Christ in the face of societal pressures is a revolutionary undertaking. This rebooting begins with a biblical worldview and its evaluation of the present world. John Piper writes, “Imagine being able to enjoy what is infinitely enjoyable with unbounded energy and passion forever. This is not our experience now. Three things stand in the way of our complete satisfaction in this world. One is that nothing here has a personal worth great enough to meet the deepest longings of our hearts. Another is that we lack the strength to savor the best treasures to their maximum worth. And the third obstacle to complete satisfaction is that our joys here come to an end. Nothing lasts” (God is the Gospel, 2005, 102). A Christ-centred biblical worldview invites us all to re-evaluate the pursuit of happiness in our present context. It is plain to see that those who have everything are not truly happy. Just read a few tabloid headlines at the supermarket. Therefore, contentment is found elsewhere. What young men and women are rediscovering is that their joy is found in relationships. Prioritize your relationships to include your relationship with God, subordinate all your other relationships under God, and you will soon begin to know that elusive joy of living. ➢

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Relationships

Relationships in this worldview are worth more than prosperity. Our relationship with God brings order to all our other relationships as we live by the “Jesus code” of interpersonal communication and service. Piper says, “We must make plain to people that if their hope stops short of seeing and savoring the glory of God in Christ, they are not fixing their hearts on the main thing and the best thing Christ died to accomplish—seeing and savoring the glory of God in the face of Christ with everlasting and ever-increasing joy” (102). Pursuing Christ first in all things—work, love, life itself—is the beginning of joy.

but no work in her field, bemoans the fact that her and her husband and their two children will never be able to own a house because of extreme real estate prices in her community. Another came to the shocking realization that this up-and-coming generation should not expect to have the same “stuff ” her parents had. The house, cars, winter vacation and retirement funds might be things of the past. That is the cry of a people struggling to hope. The amazing thing about people of faith is that, in spite of the pessimism that has been around for centuries, people keep bouncing back. We all need to remember that there have always been hard times. They come in different forms. But people, especially people of faith, have always emerged and prospered. “All a man’s ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the Lord. Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed…In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps” (Proverbs 16:2-3, 9). The teacher of Wisdom instructs us in the ways of true success—commit your way to the Lord. That is your key to the future.

The amazing thing about people of faith is that, in spite of the pessimism that has been around for centuries, people keep bouncing back.

We must let you

Our second order of business in transforming your reality is for those of us in the baby-boomer, baby-buster, or Gen X generations to let you. Sometimes we stand in your way with our wise counsel and experience, telling you “it won’t work” or “we tried that and it failed.” We have a hard time letting you experiment with life and especially with what we call “church.” As the workweek has changed in the past two decades, more of our young adults have had to take employment requiring Sunday shifts. The old “9 to 5” Monday to Friday work schedule is a relic of the past. How will you younger disciples “do” church? How will you nurture your relationship with Christ and the community of faith? You may have to come up with some radical alternatives that will make the traditionalists sweat. What we “older” folks need to tell you, as you work out this transition in your life and worship, is that we believe in you. That is to say, we believe that He who began a good work in you will continue on doing that good work in you until Christ comes (Philippians 1:6, Klassen Translation).

Beyond pessimism

If we believe the pessimism of the mainstream media, then the middle class lifestyle in Canada is eroding. In a recent Macleans article reporting on the uncertain future of young Canadians, a waitress with a degree in applied linguistics,

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A prayer

My prayer for you is that you will receive wisdom and grace from God our Father to proceed into your future, that He will show you how to worship Him when you can’t meet Him in the usual way, that He will reveal how faithful He is when jobs are in short supply, and that you will show your elder brothers and sisters in Christ how faithful you are in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity (1 Timothy 4:12). You do have a future. That future is certain because of our common faith in Christ who has gifted you and equipped you to face any circumstances that may come. On you, Christ will continue to build his Church as you faithfully reorient your world to serve Him. Darryl G. Klassen, BRS, MA, is the senior pastor of Kleefeld EMC and editor of Theodidaktos, Journal for EMC theology and education.

The future of pacifism?

PHOTO: DREAMSTIME

IMAGE: GAMEO

by Chrystie Kroeker Boggs

hile on a hunting expedition, Jeff heard screams. He followed the cries of desperation. He found the truck. Inside, was a woman named Eileen, bound and gagged. She told Jeff about her ordeal, that she was being held captive and her kidnapper could return at any moment. Eileen explained that the man keeping her hostage was armed, dangerous, and evil. Despite the danger, Jeff freed Eileen from the truck and began leading her out of the woods. Still far from safety, Jeff and his fearful companion were intercepted by the enraged villain. Both men were armed. Jeff, a pacifist, was faced with the dynamic decision: Should he use his gun to kill the evil kidnapper? These are some of the questions and quandaries that Jacob Enns, SBC graduate, former police chaplain, and current EMC pastor, poses in his book The Gentleman. These are also the questions that more than sixty people brought with them to class at Steinbach Bible College on February 21, 2013. The evening Refresh! Session, entitled “What’s the Future for Pacifism?” proved to be intriguing and relevant.

There was a disconnect between teaching and deed, continued Enns, and this spilled over into the theology of pacifism. He wrote the book as a response to this upbringing. “The summary of the book,” revealed Enns, “is the question of ‘What’s underneath pacifism?’ Pacifism is not all black and white. Would you rescue someone who’s being held by a serial killer?”

The panel

Joining Enns on the panel were representatives from SBC’s constituent churches of EMC, EMMC and CMC. Each panel member provided sincere and heartfelt insight into the topic of pacifism, its ambiguity, and its present and future significance. “Pacifism means living at peace with ourselves, with God and with each other,” explained panelist Lil Goertzen (EMMC). This definition of pacifism broadened the boundaries beyond weaponry and war. While the average person may never be in “Jeff ’s” shoes, faced head-on with the decision to use deadly force, Goertzen’s definition of pacifism extends to everyone. This sort of authentic, real-life pacifism is inclusive. Dave Reimer (CMC) extended the definition to include reconciliation. “Christ came to bring a gospel of reconciliation. How can I take a loss, as a Christian, so that someone else can win? Because that’s what Christ did. He brought reconciliation and peace and that is also our calling as Christ-followers.” The essence and depth of authentic pacifism was expounded by this statement. Pacifism as ➢

Should he use his gun to kill the evil kidnapper?

The Gentleman

Enns, a presenter and panelist, began by explaining the premise of his recently-published novel. “I was born into a traditional Mennonite family and realized early on that we were different. Yet, as I grew up, I saw a lot of inconsistency and hypocrisy in the church.”

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PHOTO: JACOB ENNS

reconciliation. Pacifism as Christ-like living. Pacifism as calling. These definitions gave heart to the meaning of the word. Pacifism, it was presented, encompasses more than wars and weapons. At its core is the emulation of Jesus. Jesus was the perfect peacemaker. “You’re blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That’s when you discover who you really are, and your place in God’s family,” said Jesus in Matthew 5:9. The situations Jesus discusses in these verses extend well beyond war. The type of pacifism defined and exemplified by Jesus is reconciliation and is calling. Sam Doerksen (CMC) asked an intriguing question, “Is a theology a theology if it doesn’t have any feet? Can I say that I believe (in pacifism) if there’s no action to follow?” When pacifism is linked solely to war and taking up the (literal) sword, the tendency is for it to become a theology of word alone. The conversation plays out at the dinner table, and is left there alongside the dirty dishes. Yet, as was echoed many times by panelists, pacifism is not crisis-related ethics. Its relevance is not applicable only to those who come face-to-face with an armed kidnapper. Instead, pacifism is a theology that could, and should, be lived out every day. Just like Jesus, we live in a world plagued by conflict. These conflicts may not hit the evening

Peace theology – pacifism – is part of what makes Anabaptist churches distinctive.

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news, but are nonetheless present. “Pacifism is often described as ‘lack of conflict,” voiced panelist Andy Funk (EMMC). “This isn’t true, because look how much conflict surrounded Jesus.”

The burning question

The burning question was asked of the panelists: What, then, does this mean for our Anabaptist churches? “We should not be hiding peace theology in our back pocket,” suggested Ward Parkinson (EMC). He continued that pacifism is a topic not often preached. While the pacifist message used to be a tenet of distinction within Anabaptist churches, its topical absence from behind the pulpit seems to be a growing trend. “The distinctive aspect used to be a positive connotation,” continued Parkinson. “But, now it’s changing into something negative.” The focus of Anabaptist churches has shifted towards evangelicalism. Pacifism is seen as a side theology, left untouched in our back pockets. Peace theology—pacifism—is part of what makes Anabaptist churches distinctive. And yet life-long church members, like many who attended the Refresh! evening at SBC, are confused as to its definition and relevance. When pacifism is a creed based solely on war and weapons, it’s easy to detach it from the greater theology. In order for pacifism to truly have a future in Anabaptist churches, the definition needs to be taught and expanded.

The pulpit is pivotal

The responsibility, then, lies partly in teaching. If pacifism is something that shapes Anabaptist churches, the pulpit becomes pivotal. According ➢

PHOTO: JACOB ENNS

Resource Materials

Jacob Enns

to panelist Terry Smith (EMC), a 2005 survey of the EMC revealed that only 25 percent of members recalled a recent sermon on pacifism. It’s difficult to ascertain the future of pacifism when its definition goes unidentified. Pacifism is something to be lived out every day, even in—perhaps especially in—times of political peace. It can be lived out by emulating the perfect peacemaker. It can be lived out, as expressed by Harvey Plett, through “coming together as churches to counsel families in conflict towards redemption and reconciliation.” It can be lived out by going the extra mile in pursuit of peace. The way of peace can also be lived out by consistency. “Pacifism has become somewhat sentimental,” articulated Andy Funk. “It’s a personal practice that we do as individuals, which ends up making it situational. We seek pacifism as long as it seems to be working, producing the outcomes we desire.” Funk continued by stating that the pacifist distinction can set Anabaptist churches apart. “Nonviolence sets up the church to be an alternative politic in this world.”

The question and the answer

Clearly, Jeff is not the only one asking the question. The answer is complex and perhaps somewhat unknown. What is undeniable, however, is that people, most notably congregants in Anabaptist churches, care enough to participate in dialogue. Perhaps this is the beginning of the answer. Chrystie Kroeker Boggs is the director of library services at Steinbach Bible College. When she is not watching her Alabama-born husband, Richard, shovel snow, she can be found playing Lego with her seven-year-old daughter Ellie, watching college football, or leading a group of young adults at Steinbach EMC.

Enns, Jacob. The Gentleman. Victoria, BC: FriesenPress, 2012. Through a novel about a violent encounter and its aftermath, an EMC minister grapples with issues of non-violence in order to assist others. Bainton, Roland H. Christian Attitudes Toward War and Peace: A Historical Survey and Critical Reevaluation. Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1960. An oft-cited survey that is still valuable though somewhat dated. Clouse, Robert G., ed. War: Four Christian Views. Downers Grove, IL: IVP, 1981. Advocates of non-participation, noncombatant service, just war, and preventative war joust in print as they consider how the Christian faith and war relate. Hornus, Jean-Michel. It Is Not Lawful For Me To Fight: Early Christian Attitudes Toward War, Violence, and the State. Scottdale, PA: Herald Press, rev. 1980. A French scholar, whose father and uncle “died as Christians and as soldiers” during World War Two, examines the attitudes of Christians toward war in “the first few centuries” after Christ’s first coming. Mahedy, William P. Out of the Night: The Spiritual Journey of Vietnam Vets. New York: Ballentine/ Epiphany, 1986. A former Roman Catholic military chaplain, now an Episcopal priest, reflects on his and others’ spiritual journeys during, and in response to, their participation in the Vietnam War. Weatherhead, Leslie D. Thinking Aloud in War Time. Toronto: Musson Book Company, 1940 A Methodist pastor in England during World War Two reluctantly defends Christian involvement in the war effort. Yoder, John H. What Would You Do? Herald Press, reprinted 2013. A prominent Anabaptist theologian explores the question, “If a violent person threatened to harm a loved one, what would you do?” The book includes the experiences and reflections of many people. – Terry M. Smith

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 13

Letters Licensing Reminders

Continued from p. 5

Universe formed at God’s command

May God bless the editors, readers, and writers of this publication. I’m a rather new reader of The Messenger and would like to commend the magazine on its purposes as stated there on page four. Alongside of the various activities and events of our EMC and larger church, the stated purposes there are “to instruct in godliness and victorious living, inspire to earnestly contend for the faith.” These seem like much needed instructions in our day and age. I also appreciated a recent letter by Heidi Plett entitled I believe it does matter [Feb. 2013]. In it she writes about some of the discussions that deal with certain aspects of creation and evolution, and she ends her letter

with this quote from “Days of Praise” where it says, “If death is not tied to Adam’s sin, then life is not tied to Christ’s death and resurrection, and the Christian faith is all in vain.” In closing I’ll just leave a couple of verses that speak to me on this very same issue. Psalm 33:6, 9: “By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. For He spoke, and it was done, He commanded, and it stood fast” (NKJV). Hebrews 11:3 says, “By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what was seen was not made out of what was visible” (NIV). – Mark Gerber Fort Frances, Ont.

We welcome you!

Who does Jesus save?

At the November ministerial and conference council meetings, I asked a few people whether we might see them in La Crete this summer. One too common reply was, “La Crete is very far away.” It has been my suspicion for some time that the distance from Steinbach to La Crete must actually be farther than from La Crete to Steinbach. Our hope is that this suspicion will not be proved correct. The distance is actually less than two-thirds of the distance from Winnipeg to Phoenix. We are looking forward to welcoming, hosting, billeting, feeding many from the farther reaches of EMC, offering warm hospitality, fellowship, inspiring sessions with speaker Tim Geddert—and beautiful, long summer evenings that must be experienced. It’s a long drive, but it’s worth the trip. – Peter Janzen, chair, EMC convention planning committee La Crete, Alta.

14 The Messenger • May 2013

I have been following the letters to the editor, challenged to also bring a perspective. I submit the story to follow. Bob and Bill made a deal. Years later their children were not pleased. Times had changed. Understandings had changed. The letter of the law came to replace the intent of the deal. Standers by, those not familiar with the law, stated their opinion of the intent. Each side gained supporters, and the supporters often became emotional regarding their views. One Sunday morning Bob’s side of the family and Bill’s side of the family were clearly not pleased to be in the same morning service. “Jesus saves!” rang out the chorus. A little child tugged on their parent’s sleeve. “Who does Jesus save?” The parent bent down. “Jesus needs to save us all.” – Gordon Dyck Steinbach, Man.

Video license Our denominational video license (which covers EMC churches) is purchased yearly from Audio Cine Films. ACF does not cover all films. Check the website (www.acf-film. com) to see if a particular film is included. The license allows churches to use videos legally during services, children’s church, youth events, and more. Local churches should not purchase a license from ACF. CCLI license The EMC national office CCLI music license covers musical uses at regional and national events. It does not cover music use by local churches. Such congregations need to purchase their own local license from CCLI.

Seeking an Anabaptist S.S. curriculum?

The EMC is too small to produce one, but the Board of Church Ministries recommends considering Gather `Round or Shine, its replacement in late 2014 (www.mennomedia.org). Whether Scripture Press, David C. Cook, or Gather `Round is used, it might need supplementing to reflect Evangelical Anabaptist beliefs and practices.

Policy on published items

The Messenger’s policy on originals of published items: letters to the editor are to be retained for a year. Originals of all other categories are to be retained for four months or can be destroyed sooner at the editor’s discretion. After their respective time periods, the originals of print materials can be destroyed. – Board of Church Ministries March 14, 2013

Columns • writings shared Black and Blue Sari, Kamal Dhillon (Canada: Lotus Speaking and Writing, 2012). 292 pp. Price $20. ISBN 9870981386904. Reviewed by Diana Peters (EFC Steinbach), BA, administrative assistant, EMC national office.

amal Dhillon dreamed about a fairytale love and marriage. She looked forward to the day where she would meet her knight in shining armour and be freed from the restrictions placed on her by her family and culture.

To victims of abuse, she gives hope, worth and a message: never give up.

But what she got instead was a life filled with terror and torture, a husband who found pleasure in finding creative ways to make her suffer. Dhillon tells her story of abuse, betrayal, rejection and hopelessness. She is open and honest about the disturbing experiences she went through, with the intent of opening the reader’s eyes to the despicable nature of abuse. “Abuse is never justified,” she says. “Abuse not

only wounds physically, but destroys people emotionally and mentally. It is a systematic breaking down of the person you were meant to be” (271). Thankfully, this story does not end there. In the last few chapters Dhillon highlights her discovery of God’s love and the healing of forgiveness. It is obvious that it is only through God’s strength and love that she came to this point. To victims of abuse, she gives hope, worth and a message: never give up. “Despite what you have been told about yourself, you are not worthless or useless, and you are not the cause of the abuse,” Dhillon says. “You are unique and precious in God’s eyes. No one deserves to be treated abusively. You are entitled as God’s child to be treated with dignity and respect” (273-274).

Radical Christian Discipleship, John Howard Yoder (Herald Press, 2012). Edited by John Nugent, Andy Alexis Baker, and Branson L. Parker. 183 pp. $15.99. ISBN 9780836196665. Reviewed by Henry Friesen, BA, MPhilF, part of The ConneXion’s (Arborg) leadership team.

adical Christian Discipleship (RCD) is a new release of Yoder’s sermons and writings dating from 1955 to 1978. It is a testament to the prophetic character of Yoder’s work, and a credit to the editorial team, that this book reads with such contemporary freshness a full generation after its initial delivery. Yoder’s best-known work, The Politics of Jesus, was voted one of the ten most influential books of the twentieth century by the editors of Christianity Today. RCD is a very readable entry into Yoder’s thought, and it showcases the reason for his influential stature within the academic evangelical community. Yoder was always a committed Anabaptist, and it is his unwavering commitment to scripture, and the teachings of Jesus Christ, that make Yoder’s echo of Jesus’ call to a radical discipleship so

persuasive. Indeed, it is precisely Yoder’s commitment to hear clearly the words of the Teacher from two thousand years ago that affords his work such continuing vitality. RCD is the first of three new volumes of Yoder’s work that will be released by the end of 2014. This volume focuses on non-conformity, reminding us that believers “are called to follow Jesus completely in every aspect of our lives” (19). Yoder issues a powerful challenge for the church to walk in the way of Jesus, to have our lives formed by scripture, and to listen very carefully in order to discern, through the siren distractions of our comfortable cultural conditioning, Jesus’ provocative call for radical discipleship. www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 15

Columns • an education app

The Apostles’ Creed and EMC churches

H by Terry M. Smith

ow is the Apostles’ Creed used in your church? Most EMC churches do not use it. Some might say they are not credal and focus more on lifestyle than on doctrine. They might say the creed has been used for legal enforcement, includes the word Catholic, and does not mention Jesus’ life or teaching. Yet Menno Simons in 1554 referred to “The Twelve Articles.” He replied to a Reformed leader, “I trust that we who are grains of one loaf agree not only to the twelve articles (as he counts them), but also as to all the articles of the Scriptures.” Menno had been a priest, so it once was a regular part of his confession, and he says he and other Anabaptists still believe it. Balthasar Hubmaier, also a former priest, used it in his 1527 order of service for Anabaptist baptism at Nicolsburg. Prior to their baptism, much of the first part of what he asked candidates centred on the Apostles’ Creed. Peter Riedemann, the early Hutterian leader, used the creed as a structure for his Confession of Faith (ca. 1540-45) to explain Anabaptist

I BELIEVE in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

16 The Messenger • May 2013

beliefs to Philip of Hesse, and the Swiss Brethren of Hesse used the creed in dialogue with Reformed leaders in 1578. The Latin word credo means, “I believe.” Does our common use of the word confession mean anything different? Some say a creed is enforced, while a confession is voluntary. Yet even in the EMC there are limits. Our Constitution says a minister can be disciplined for unsound doctrine (p. 19). The use of Catholic predates the AD 1054 separation of the Eastern (Orthodox) and Western (Roman) churches. Whatever Catholic means, it does not mean Roman Catholic. Were early Anabaptists more focused on lifestyle than doctrine? They came from a credal background and affirmed classical doctrines. They knew that they were being examined doctrinally and used the creed to show their orthodoxy, but it is important to recognize that they could do this because there was common ground. Anabaptist theologian J. C. Wenger says, “On the major doctrines of the Christian faith, as found in the so-called Apostles’ Creed, for example, there was no significant difference between the Anabaptists and the larger bodies of Christendom.” Early Anabaptists did not dismiss the need for correct teaching. Menno Simons often wrote to correct wrong teaching that led to wrong living. If we minimize the need for correct doctrine, we misuse part of our early Anabaptist background. Sixteenth-century Anabaptists knew the weakness of the times: people could memorize a catechism without taking it to heart and remain careless about lifestyle. Felix Manz, Obbe Philips, and Dirk Philips—all early Anabaptist leaders—were the illegitimate sons of Roman Catholic priests. As a result, when early Anabaptists explored the creed, they brought out its ethical implications. Does the creed skip over Jesus’ life, work, and teaching? To say yes is an over-statement. Jesus’ influence upon the Apostles’ Creed is revealed by looking closely at many of its parts.

With Our Missionaries

Do we think of our backyard neighbours? I am a member of an EMC church here in Swan River, Manitoba. My wife and I are involved in First Nations ministry. I ask the question: how do the believers in the Bible Belt look at First Nations people? I remember the story of Abraham. He had a relative named Lot. Lot and his family lived in Sodom and Gomorrah, which were destined for destruction. Judgment was on the way. Abraham received news what was going to happen. He interceded for Lot and his family who was of the same nation as he. He did all he could

The

to get him out of the condemned cities. The lesson here to me is: do I think of those who are of the same nation as I am, namely the First Nations people? Abraham did not forget his backyard neighbour Lot. The churches have many Fred and Charlotte Evans backyard 19th Annual neighbours—peoples of the church here in Swan River into a First Nations. reserve to minister. Are they remembered, or is I have been preaching for 35 years the foreign field given priority? (36 years on June 1). It is the result I, along with others, see the im- of a man from a German Mennonite portance of foreign missions. community who came to our village. God bless those who have gone There were no fancy push-button gadand are there. gets to use or running water; we just However, judgment is ran to the lake with pails to get water. looming for people on our own He decided to come to see the soil, the reservations. people in his backyard in the North. Mission stations sit empty; As a result I got saved out of the the communities are empty darkness. Steinbach of workers for the Lord in Down through the years I have Fly-In Golf missions. seen many brought out of darkness Darkness hangs over the into the light by the power of the Course communities for lack of light gospel because a man obeyed to go from the gospel. Are there north—to the First Nations people, any Spirit-filled workers who his backyard neighbours. To register, contact Ruth will give themselves without – Fred Evans Penner: 204-255-8062 or reservation? rrpenner@shaw.ca\ Are there any who will go Fred and Charlotte Evans (Communinto a new area, as did Dr. John ity Bible Fellowship, Swan River) serve Details available at G. Paten (1824-1907) into the as workers under Mid-Way Christian www.emconference.ca New Hebrides? There he burLeadership in evangelism, radio min(under events). ied his wife and only child. istry, and leadership developement. I thank God for some people going from our EMC PHOTO: COMMUNITY FELLOWSHIP

CANADA

EMC

PROJECT BUILDERS

Golf Classic

June 20, 2013

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 17

With Our Missionaries

It’s Time

18 The Messenger • May 2013

We plead “guilty” to this charge and desire to remain xenophiles. Living next to the university, we see many foreign students walk by our house.

PHOTO: ELVIRA AND ELMER WARKENTIN

CANADA

It’s Time. Sometimes this term spells hope; other times pain. Sometimes it introduces a huge challenge. It’s a signpost that indicates an opportunity, a major responsibility, a new direction to follow, or tough days ahead. All of us experience these It’s Time moments in our lives. The older we get, the more of these definitive moments we can share. For us: November 11, 1974… to board the plane and fly to Nigeria to teach Bible in Nigeria’s government high schools and colleges. June 1987… to move back to Canada (Steinbach) to be there for our kids as they began university. August 1992… to pull up stakes again, sell our house, and move to Toronto to work in the SIM office in Toronto. August 2003… to sell our Toronto condo, move to Thailand to open and set up an Asian office for SIM. April 2008… to hand over leadership of SIM Asia and move back to Canada. February 2010… to focus on mobilizing English teachers for Asia. May 31, 2013… It’s Time to retire from active status with SIM. Retire? Yes, you read correctly. After almost 39 years in active ministry with SIM we sense God saying to us: It’s Time. While our passion is still there for the amazing opportunities for English teachers in Asia, we realize that it’s time to hand over to younger people. We are not retiring from life nor from active ministry. Someone sent us this email: “I have found a definition of you: xenophile – a person who is attracted to foreign peoples, cultures, or customs.”

Elvira and Elmer Warkentin

Guelph, Ontario, area; it seems like God’s bonus after being separated for so long at times. We look forward to discretionary time to spend together. While the future in retirement will be challenging for us, we will continue to depend on God’s faithfulness. There are times of anxiety and worry. But then we pray for God to replace our anxiety with anticipation, our worry with worship. If we were to write a book on our past 39 years, the title would definitely include the affirmation “God is Faithful.” It’s Time to sign off. – Elmer and Elvira Warkentin

There is an “attraction,” and we want Elmer and Elvira Warkentin are conto act as God leads. nected with Steinbach EMC. It’s Time to say thank you to all EMC CONVENTION 2013 JULY 5–7 of you who have LA CRETE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP been partnering LA CRETE, ALBERTA with us over the years. Some of you have been on our team since we first left for Nigeria in 1974, others for a major part of that time. Some of you have supported us financially; many have faithfully prayed. To all of you we want to say a huge thank you. It’s Time. Time to move forward into a new chapter speaker: timothy j. geddert of life and minregister online : www.emconference.ca istry. We thank God for our family or call: 204-326-6401 who all live in the

living as KINGDOM people

Columns • thinking about

An outward focus

“

by Ward Parkinson Conference Pastor

PHOTO: DESIGN PICS

ake up and look around.” Normally when we hear such words we assume someone is alerting us to an urgent need or reality. We’ve been preoccupied and now we must snap to attention. “Wake up and look around.” These are the words of Jesus (John 4:35 NLT). He said this to his disciples after he’d had a heart to heart conversation with a Samaritan woman beside a well. That conversation was a divine appointment the disciples—good Jewish boys all—would not have even considered, let alone approved. So Jesus sat them down in his optometrist chair and did some vision correction. When we go to the eye doctor, she will position the lens machine in front of our eyes and say, “What do you see?” Her assessment of our vision begins with current reality. For Jesus’ disciples, an outreach vision likely did not include Samaritans. And certainly it would not start with a Samaritan woman with a sketchy history. In fact, their vision for outreach was severely limited. The village of Sychar was simply a place to buy food and move on. There was a world of opportunity to which they were blind. For Jesus their condition was not only serious, it was urgent. Not only were they not seeing the ripe harvest, they were not out there reaping, and it was high time. A key factor in assessing your church’s health is measuring its outward focus. When you look at your community, do see harvest fields or minefields? Minefield thinking will see the world as dangerous and threatening. The prospect of dealing with “lifestyle issues” and messy situations is too much. It is safer to wrap our witness in a handkerchief and bury it. In such thinking we turn inward. In the process, we unwittingly deny the power of the gospel we say we believe.

Harvest field thinking

Harvest field thinking is quite different. It puts so much stock in the transforming power of Jesus that dares to see the impossible. Who would have thought the Samaritans actually had a spiritual hunger? Who would have suspected a five-time divorcee could be such an effective evangelist? Without a harvest field vision we fall prey to the lie that we will survive best by preserving and protecting our own. Without a harvest field vision we are content to pride ourselves on being a faithful remnant, with lifestyles and convictions intact. The reality is, for a church such minefield thinking only leads to slow death. Admittedly, plunging into the harvest field involves risk. The Book of Acts records that, as the Church grew out from Jerusalem to Judea and Samaria and into the Gentile world, the believers were confronted with one challenge after another. These were not minor hurdles; these were cultural and religious issues that cut to the core of their theology. The governing pulse of the Early Church was this: we are entrusted with the gospel message. This message from a loving God has an urgency built in. People need Jesus. Whatever our differences, we must not lose sight of our mandate. When you look at your community, what do you see?

When you look at your community, do see harvest fields or minefields?

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 19

With Our Churches

New pastoral couple, LOFT is active WINNIPEG, Man.—March was an exciting month for us. Darrel and Audrey Guenther joined us as our new pastoral couple. Welcome to the family of Crestview Fellowship! We had the privilege of taking part in a Good Friday service together with the Free Methodist church. This joint service is a long-standing tradition and sees two different cultures come together over our shared belief in Jesus Christ. We sing, laugh, pray together and share communion as we commemorate this very important day. Excitement is building for the biennial Abundant Springs youth retreat taking place in Caronport, Sask., the weekend of May 17–20, 2013. Crestview’s youth group, a.k.a. The L.O.F.T. (Living Our Faith Together), has hosted a couple of fundraising luncheons, the most recent of which was a delicious soup and pie lunch on March 17. The youth also put a video together in which they individually shared what they hoped would be

accomplished at this year’s retreat. Some of the answers were to: • grow closer to my friends at youth • grow closer in my relationship with God • grow in knowledge of the Bible • develop my passion for third world countries • as leaders to become closer to those who are being led So what happens on a “normal” youth night? On average there are about 10 to 15 youth attending. Some nights focus on Bible study and discussion topics have covered creation over evolution, bullying, and using the bible as truth. Sometimes the group joins up with other EMC churches on Friday evenings to go skating or attend a large youth group park event. The youth are encouraged to get to know each other, have fun and create good memories in a safe environment. Favourite activities include Hide-n-Seek in the dark (a particular

PHOTO: CRESTVIEW FELLOWSHIP

Crestview Fellowship

Audrey and Darrel Guenther

favourite of some of the parent volunteers), Capture the Flag, and Bump (a variation of basketball). The youth also take their turn in the church cleaning rotation, and have contributed in the music portion of Sunday morning worship services. I asked a few of the adult volunteers for their perspective on an evening with the youth. The words used were “exhausting,” “challenging,” and “rewarding.” It’s encouraging to watch these young people grow in their relationship with each other and especially in their relationship with the Lord. A few have expressed a desire to work in the mission field or some other form of ministry, and I am humbled when I hear how they have stood firm in their belief and not bowed to peer pressure. – Sharron Straub

•• Westpointe Community Church

Five members gained GRANDE PRAIRIE, Alta.—Celebrating commitment to Christ, we joined with Harmony Leroux, Jennifer Lawrence, John Wiebe, and Valerie Unruh as they were baptized on March 17, 2013, during our worship service. After hearing individual testimonies of God’s leading and guidance in their lives, Pastor Dwight Munn officiated at the baptisms. Jennifer Lawrence was also accepted into membership. – Katelyn Tarnowski 20 The Messenger • May 2013

With Our Churches Steinbach EMC

PHOTO: STEINBACH EMC

Light of the World: An international celebration people arrive from the Philippines, they are invited as well, providing them with opportunities to make friends and receive support as they adjust to life in Canada. A passage from Mark 14 was read in both Low German and English, followed by a song by a youth group, “Hand in Hand with Traditional Filipino flower dance STEINBACH, Man.—Spanish, Jesus,” in Low German. Tagalog, Low German, Russian, High A number of people from our German, English—these are some of church meet with a group of Low the languages that you might have German-speaking friends in the heard if you had entered our church Grunthal area for a biweekly Bible on March 28. study and fellowship evening and The event was an International are also involved in a teaching and Celebration, with the theme “Light of prayer ministry. Five to seven families, the World,” a multi-cultural program, including twenty to thirty children, followed by food samples. It was a attend the Bible study regularly, and great opportunity to connect with our the children enjoy a time of stories friends from different cultures who and crafts. live in our community. The Evangelical Carl Loewen, our community pasFellowship Church, tor, welcomed the audience and read together with the Psalm 67. Latinos who attend The program began with a “flower there, joined us for dance” to the music of a traditional this celebration. Filipino song, gracefully performed Several people from by a group of young ladies beautifully the group shared dressed in their Filipino finery. The about how Easter is Filipino Bible study group put on an celebrated in “their” impressive light show/hand mime, to countries—Bothe Avalon song, “Testify to Love.” livia, Mexico and Carl leads a Filipino Bible study Nicaragua. This was that meets weekly, attended by fifteen followed by a Spanish adults. His wife, Lisa, is busy with the song, focusing on the children during this time, with stories, Cross, sung by the crafts and games. They have been pastor couple, Irai blessed with a group who enjoys look- and Silvia. ing into the Word, praying together, The Spanish serand they are growing closer together vices take place once as followers of Jesus. When new

a month, with an average attendance of fifty, with double that number at special events. The Hispanic women meet twice a month, and weekly Bible studies and useful workshops for the Latino community take place every Wednesday. Outreach activities include a soccer program, in partnership with our church, an annual Latino festival and an Hispanic camp. A movie, illustrating God’s love in sending His Son to die for the whole world, was shown, after which Associate Pastor Rick Bettig made some closing comments. Paska, chipa, lumpia, tortillas, pancit—what an array of delectable foods greeted us as we entered the colourfully decorated church gym after the program. Sampling the different foods gave us an opportunity to interact and enjoy fellowship with friends who have chosen to make Steinbach their home. – Martha Kroeker

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 21

With Our Churches Community Bible Fellowship

Supporting our missionaries PHOTO: COMMUNITY BIBLE FELLOWSHIP

SWAN RIVER, Man.—Prayer Teams, would you ever go on one? Why not pray at home? What benefit can prayer teams be, especially for those that are hosting the team? Those questions were answered as our pastor Ron Thiessen and his daughter Kendra had the opportunity in February to travel to Guadalajara, Mexico, to be a part of the prayer team. What made it interesting is that John and Connie Michelle Peters, at Winnipeg Airport, is ready to Reimer, who were our former pasleave for YWAM in Kona, Hawaii. toral couple, lead the church plant in Guadalajara. What a blessing for John are serving in Schroeder, Brazil. They and Connie to meet their pastor and went to work, support, and encourage for them to encourage each other. the camp work there. What a way to Kevin and Carolyn Penner togethspend a vacation. er with their girls Natalie and Lindsay, Michelle Peters left for YWAM in spent their spring break March 21 – Kona, Hawaii, on April 4. One of her April 3 with our missionaries Dwayne passions is performing arts and she and Shannon Klassen, and family, who will be doing her discipleship training

school there and then, as a group, they will be bringing a production and touring South Africa and Israel to spread the good news through this art. This summer Kevin and Sanna Scales, Terry and Lorrel Scales, Kevin Penner, and maybe a few more are planning to run a VBS program together with our missionaries Fred and Stella Neff who are in Grand Rapids, Man. We pray for vision and their planning process for a week of spiritual enrichment for children there. Jake and Doris Reimer arrived back from Rio Grande Bible Institute after spending three months volunteering there from January – March. Maybe they were looking forward to the snow being gone when they came back, but no such luck this year. – Karen Peters

•• St. Vital EMC

WINNIPEG, Man.—March 31, 2013, was a special day at St. Vital EMC for a number of reasons. First and foremost, we were able to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We enjoyed a time of singing and worship with an extra large worship team, and received a reminder of what the resurrection means for us today. As a church family we were also blessed to celebrate the baptism of three wonderful young people as well as a membership transfer. What a joy to hear their testimonies of Brynae

22 The Messenger • May 2013

Thiessen, Emily Wahl, Grace Robertson and Tyson Kornelson (transfer), and see how God has worked in their lives. Welcome to the St. Vital EMC family! It was also a sending day for our pastoral couple Jerry and Phyllis Plett, who are going to be enjoying a well-deserved three-month sabbatical. We joined together to bless them and send them on their way. This church family is such a blessing. – Lorena Penner

PHOTO: ST. VITAL EMC

This church family is a blessing!

Baptismal group

With Our Churches Roseisle EMC

Living for God 24/7 ROSEISLE, Man.—It was that time of year again: the youth needed funds to attend Youth Quake. They really “beefed” up their fund-raiser idea, and, together with an evening of desserts and entertainment on January 12, they were able to raise the money needed so all of them could attend. On February 15, they hopped on the Winkler Bible Camp bus that was part of a three-bus or van convoy, along with about 60 other youth from the surrounding area, and headed to Briercrest. On Sunday, March 3, they led our worship service and shared with us highlights of their weekend at YQ. Most mentioned the praise and worship, concerts, and fun activities. Some expressed appreciation to other members of the youth who spent time listening and encouraging, but most importantly of the impact that the

main sessions (led by Chris Tompkins) had on them. The theme was living for God 24/7. It was inspiring and encouraging to hear from our youth how they were going to strive to live for God every day. The weekend after they were back, the youth hosted the first “Junior Youth” event for kids ages four to 12. This was a high-energy evening with close to 30 kids attending. The event was packed full of fun and games, singing, snacks, 400 balloons and spending time with God. While our youth were with the kids, adults spent the same evening bowling and eating pizza in Carman. Pastor Kelly recently led a challenging, but practical sermon series on sin. He covered topics like the sin of self (misjudging the influence of sin

on our lives, pride, selfishness) and sins of the tongue (cursing, gossip, slander, negative comments, lying). He also covered anger (the devil loves our anger) and our body. We project an image by how we look. Are we representing Christ? What does our lifestyle say about our faith? He also dealt with envy and jealousy. Are we pursuing more “things”? Do we want others brought down? Whose blessings are we counting, others or our own? On Thursday, March 28, we began a three-day celebration of Easter with a Maundy Thursday Communion and footwashing service, followed by a community Good Friday service at the Roseisle Pentecostal Assembly. Our congregation met again on Easter Sunday to worship followed by breakfast with our church family. – Eleanor Friesen

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 23

With Our Churches Taber EMC

An eventful spring at Taber

PHOTO: TABER EMC

TABER, Alta.—It has been an eventful In April Dr. Harvey and Pearl Plett to see pictures from our collective spring here in Taber. In March our blessed us with a visit. Dr. Plett spoke past and see the two areas that many senior pastoral couple, David and at various services throughout the German Mennonites originated from. Audrey Wiebe, announced their plans weekend. On Thursday night he spoke This explained the differences in to retire in August. Although we will about the background of the Anabappronunciation of some Low German miss them greatly, we are happy to see tist movement, especially the world words; we were able to discern which them move on to an exciting chapter that early Anabaptists lived in. He village our families originated from by in their lives and wish them all of the way we pronounce certain words. God’s blessings. This spring we also had our anOn April 4, Albert Klassen, Annie nual church cleaning day. The day Wiebe and Deeds Peters were all kicked off with a pancake breakfast, baptized and received into memberafter which people cleaned the ship by Pastor Wiebe after completchurch. It is a blessing to have so ing a Christian life class taught by many people willing to do the not-sodeacons Jake and Nancy Heide and glamorous jobs. Abe Klassen. It is always encouragMother’s Day is also an exciting ing to see young people pledging day. Again this year the mothers in their lives to Christ in a visible way. Pastor Dave Wiebe, deacons Nancy and Jake Heide, our church were blessed by a disco Abe Klassen, Deeds Peters, Albert Klassen and lunch by the men. The oldest child in each family presented their mom with Annie Wiebe. gave much information about a rose. This is always a special day in the Roman Catholic Church our congregation, and I think many and how that church and the women look forward to the wonderful early Anabaptists interacted. meal put on by the men. On Friday night a youthOverall, it has been a great geared service was held springtime here in Taber. We look where Dr. Plett talked about forward to a fun summer filled with Join fellow golfers for an evening the pitfalls of life, including camp-outs, the Sunday School picnic, round at EMC Convention – comparing oneself to others. barbecues and other fun events. We `In the Land of the Midnight Sun’ Saturday morning was the also look forward to the future of our monthly men’s breakfast at church as we face leadership changes. church, and in the evening We ask that you pray for wisdom Dr. Plett challenged us to and guidance as our board and TEE-OFF 10 PM, SAT, JULY 6 think about what Jesus really ministerial seek God’s will for the 36 GOLFERS MAX taught. new pastor and youth pastor for our REGISTER AT CONVENTION A question and answer church. We believe that God will GREEEN FEES $25 time was held on Saturday bring us two people that will bless our LIMITED CLUB RENTALS evening, and many people congregation and continue to lead our had questions for Dr. Plett church forward. about their Mennonite – Naomi Klassen origins. Dr. Plett also gave the message on Sunday morning. On Sunday evening he shared with us some photos from the recent EMC tour to For more info call: Ukraine. It was fascinating David @ (780) 841 – 2889 or Warren @ (204) 355 – 4989

Yes Mennonites Do Carry Clubs!

24 The Messenger • May 2013

News

CMU’s Outtatown program graduates 61 Graduates share stories, are challenged to ‘see differently’ WINNIPEG, Man. – Stories of love, hope, community and transformation characterized the Outtatown Discipleship School graduation celebration on Sunday, April 14, as 61 young people graduated at Canadian Mennonite University (CMU). “For years to come, we will be influenced by the experiences we’ve had as a community, as well as the things we have learned individually,” said Ross van Gaalen, a student from the South Africa group. The celebration included worship and a message by instructor Nathan Rieger, who challenged graduates to

use their experiences to look at the world differently. “You have to see differently—that is the core of discipleship,” Rieger said. “To say, ‘Jesus, I want to see with your eyes.’” Before praying for the graduates, CMU President Cheryl Pauls likened the university to a rich mosaic. “Outtatown is definitely a vital part of what makes it glistening and gritty, real and holy,” said Dr. Pauls. In addition to the South Africa and Guatemala teams, this year’s program included a team that traveled to Burkina Faso. The team graduated this

past December. The Outtatown Discipleship School is a program of serving and learning for students seeking a lifechanging experience of adventure, travel, service, and Christian studies. Through participation, students may earn up to 18 university credit hours for the academic work completed during their programs. Outtatown offers two-semester programs at site locations in Guatemala and South Africa, and a one-semester program in French Africa. – CMU

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Joint project of MCC, MC Alberta EDMONTON, Alta. – A young man at the Al Rashid Mosque welcomed Donna Entz and Miriam Gross and thanked them for their work within his Muslim community. Entz and Gross say the young man’s hospitality was poignant because it came only days after a deadly attack in Libya that escalated religious tensions around the world. Entz and Gross are with a project jointly supported by MCC and Mennonite Church Alberta to build connections between Christian and Muslim communities in North Edmonton. The women work with newcomers,

finding tutors from Mennonite schools to mentor immigrant students, and organizing small gatherings to bring Mennonites and Muslims together. For Entz, it is a natural progression after 30 years in a Mennonite ministry in Burkina Faso, Africa. “At the mosque I identify myself as Christian,” says Gross, who is 21. “Then I say I don’t want to sit at home and listen to what the media are telling me about Islam. I want to hear about Islam from Muslims.” At the Al Rashid Mosque in Edmonton, Entz and Gross have become familiar faces. After the service, they

PHOTO: JOANIE PETERS

Building bridges between Christians and Muslims

Miriam Gross and Donna Entz, at Al Rashid Mosque in Edmonton, Alta., seek to connect Christian and Muslim communities.

smile and share the traditional Islamic peace greeting with several women who stop to chat. “They recognize something about me because I wear a long dress like them, but they also know there’s something different,” Entz says. “These are the opportunities we have,” Entz says. “It’s an amazing thing.” – Julie Bell, MCC Canada

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 25

News

SBC graduates 31

PHOTO: SBC

Certificate, diploma, and degree graduates honoured

Diploma and degree graduates of 2013 (two missing)

STEINBACH, Man.—Steinbach Bible College saw 31 young people graduate on April 27-28. It began with a spring concert on Friday evening, April 27, with music, drama and faith stories, and the presentation of seven Certificates of Biblical Studies. The ceremony for the diploma and degree graduates took place on the following day at Steinbach EMC. On Sunday, Dr. Chuck Nichols gave the commencement address. Rebecca Fehr Reimer gave the valedictory, with Raymond Ginter giving the undergraduate response. Nine grads received a Diploma of Biblical Studies, 13 received a three-year BA in Christian Studies, Bible/ Theology, or Youth Ministry, while two four-year BAs were awarded in Christian Ministries and Pastoral Ministry. A celebration banquet and an award ceremony took place at the college that evening.

Congratulations to the following 2013 award recipients: Delta Epsilon Chi (ABHE) – Sarah Barkman (Mennville) Timothy Award – Adrienne Petkau and Alexander Brandt Harvey Plett Scholarship – Markus Fast Betty Reimer Scholarship – Dianna Wiens MFC Spirit of Generosity Award – Nate Siemens (La Crete) Bible/Theology Award – Jayelle Friesen (Prairie Rose) Youth Ministry Award – Ashlyn Neufeld Peer Counseling Award – Angela Dueck (Pleasant Valley) Worship Arts Award – Thomas Penner (Steinbach EMC) Children’s Ministry Award – Gillian Hunt The class of 2013 included eleven EMC graduates. Please pray for all of our graduates as they move on as servant leaders in full-time, part-time or volunteer ministry, further education, and/or employment (Psalm 91: 1-2). – SBC

PHOTO: SBC

Note: SBC is co-owned by the EMC. It is likely that more EMC members and ministers have attended SBC in its 75-year history than any other Bible college.

26 The Messenger • May 2013

EMC grads 2013: (front): Jolene Plett (Morweena), Sarah Barkman (Mennville), Kyla Plett (Prairie Grove), Angela Dueck (Rosenort EMC), Gwen Reimer (Ridgewood), Rebecca Reimer (Stony Brook); (back) Sean Bucholz (Prairie Rose), Jeremy Dyck (Riverton), Nate Siemens (La Crete), Thomas Penner (Steinbach EMC), James Corder (Abbeydale)

News

PHOTOS: PROV

EMCers graduate among many at Providence

Russell Doerksen M. Div. in Biblical Languages Fort Garry EMC

OTTERBURNE, Man.—EMCers who attended Providence University College and Theological Seminary were among the scores of graduates on the weekend of April 20-21. At the seminary’s ceremony on April 20, Russell Doerksen (Fort Garry) gave the valedictory, and received both the expository preaching award and a Master of Divinity (biblical languages) degree. Winnipeg police chief Devon Clunis gave the graduation address, and military chaplain Greg Costen received the seminary’s alumnus of the year award. Costen said that he and other Master of Divinity students, who studied

Ingrid Fast B.A. in Theatre Blumenort EMC.

Caleb Thiessen B.A. in Humanities Blumenort EMC

biblical languages, had looked down upon counseling students who were to get in “touch with their feelings.” In his years of ministry, though, no one had ever asked him to parse a Hebrew word, yet he had often wished he could better assist the people who came to see him for counseling, he said. Providence University College’s graduation was held on April 21 with Chief Clunis again giving the graduation address. Wilma Arnold-Hebert was the University College’s alumnus of the year. A resident of St. PierreJolys, Man., she has long-served within the youth drop-in centre in that community.

Kayla Rose Penner B.A. in Music Kleefeld EMC

Among the university college’s graduates were EMCers Caleb Thiessen (Blumenort), Ingrid Fast (Blumenort), and Kayla Rose Penner (Kleefeld). Presiding at both graduations was Dr. David Johnson, interim president. The search is on for a new president, with a desire to have an individual in place by the start of the 2013-1014 academic year. Providence University College and Theological Seminary is not an officially EMC-affiliated institution. However, EMCers have been involved within it for many years as students, professors, and supporters. – Terry M. Smith

Sarah Thiessen Diploma of Biblical Studies Blumenort EMC

PHOTO: PROV

PHOTO: BETHANY COLLEGE

EMCer graduates from Bethany College

Interim president Dr. David Johnson and graduate Ingrid Fast

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 27

PBs hosts seminar on Succession Planning Friesen: Put it in writing BLUMENORT, Man. – Your will is the last conversation you have with those left behind when you die. What do you want that statement to be?” That was one question posed on April 6, 2013, by Tim Fry at a seminar on planning for succession sponsored by EMC’s Project Builders and hosted at Blumenort EMC. Fry, a lawyer with experience as a pastor, presented some of the legal hurdles to address in succession planning. He elaborated on the importance of a well-prepared will and defined the role of an executor to carry out your intentions. Elaine Froese, a writer and family coach, addressed the dynamics of working through a succession plan with your family. “Conflict is not bad, but unresolved conflict is,” she said. “What are the filters we have in place preventing us from seeing the next person’s point of view?” Dr. Arden Thiessen provided an overview of Old and New Testament, including principles such as: “Prosperity can be Dangerous” (Deut. 8:11-18; Luke 12:13-21), “God’s Rules are for own Good” (Deut. 12:12,13; Luke

11:28, Romans 11:22), and “Extend Generous Compassion for the Poor” (Deut. 15:7-11; 2 Cor. 9:6-12). Harold Penner and Rick Braun Janzen, Mennonite Foundation of Canada representatives, introduced us to various giving options: gifting accounts to average giving from year to year, options at the time of a transition to offset Capital Gains, and gifting options provided through the estate. Henry Friesen, accountant, addressed practical ways to enhance estate value in management or ownership to business partners or family members. Start planning your exit strategy the day your child asks to join the family business. Redefine parting ways as success rather then failure. Put your cards on the table. Put it in writing. This year we decided to focus on a topic having practical applications for all of us as we seek to be faithful to Christ through the material assets we have accumulated. It was encouraging to hear affirmation for addressing the theme of “Integrating Faith and Business in Planning for Succession.”

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ST. CATHARINES, Ont.—MFC welcomes Andrew Epp as stewardship consultant in the Niagara/St. Catharines office. Previously, Andrew was the director of operations with Evangelical Missionary Church of Canada. He has more than nine years of experience in youth ministry, and spent five years working with the Ontario Government in the financial sector. Epp is married with three children. He will officially join MFC on July 8. – MFC 28 The Messenger • May 2013

PHOTO: MFC

Epp hired as MFC consultant

PHOTO: MENNONITE FOUNDATION OF CANADA

News

Harold Penner

Participation from our sister conferences, CMC and EMMC, was much appreciated. Project Builders is becoming increasingly known in the EMC as an organization dedicated to assisting our mission workers and national churches in developing capital projects to serve the church and help it meet spiritual and physical needs within the community. PB has invested close to two million dollars in a range of buildings, facilities, micro-loans, and Business for Transformation initiatives. A year ago in April, Project Builders had a number of excellent seminars with Craig S., as he challenged us with to engage in Business for Transformation in difficult access countries. Project Builders is currently involved in supporting three distinct projects in Asia, North Africa, and West Africa. – Len Barkman

News

MCC sets new target for Syria crisis campaign WINNIPEG, Man. –The situation in Syria is likely to worsen and more must be done for the people affected by the conflict, says Don Peters, executive director, MCC Canada. Don Peters recently visited Lebanon, where up to one million Syrian refugees are living. He says they are in desperate need of shelter, food and medical assistance. MCC began its Syria crisis campaign last year with an initial goal of $500,000. The total has now surpassed $1 million. Peters is calling on MCC supporters, and all Canadians, to help meet the new goal of $1.5 million. “There is much, much more work to be done. This is an ongoing disaster. The United Nations agencies haven’t yet kicked in with the amount of assistance that these people need. And

MCC PHOTO: SARAH ADAMS

The goal now is $1.5 million

Walid Dabbous, a Syrian refugee; Don Peters, MCC Canada executive director; Ali Jammoul, a program worker

other agencies, such as MCC, are going to have to continue their support.” To date, MCC has dedicated more than $4 million to programs in Syria, Lebanon and Jordan. That includes cash contributions, as well as material resources such as blankets, relief kits, clothing and footwear. While the bulk of MCC’s work

has been in humanitarian assistance, Peters says MCC is also assisting in other ways. It’s providing training for partner agencies that work with displaced Syrians, both inside and outside the country. MCC is also supporting peacebuilding programs, some with a special focus on trauma recovery. It’s estimated that more than 70,000 people have died in the ongoing conflict. More than three million are displaced, either within Syria or to neighbouring countries. To contribute to MCC’s Syria crisis campaign, visit mcccanada.ca, contact your nearest MCC office, or call 1-888-622-6337. – MCC

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Prison families served in Bolivia ABBOTSFORD, BC – The children come running out of the prison gates with their backpacks, saying goodbye to the guards, ready to begin their day at Casa de la Amistad (House of Friendship). Their parents are prisoners who are expected to provide for their families. For Tyler and Renae Regehr (South Abbotsford MB Church), Cochabamba, Bolivia, is their home for this year as they help some of the neediest children in the country. The prisons are much like selfcontained cities. There are no bars on windows and inmates are not

confined to rooms. Rooms are sold or rented. Inside is a chapel, stores, a restaurant, woodworking shops, and a library. Prisoners supplement their income by bartering and working in the shops. Renae spends most of her day working with the youngest children, playing games, making crafts, teaching them the alphabet or numbers, or going on a trip to a park. Tyler says that perhaps the strangest part of the day is when children return to their prison homes. Despite the challenges, there are benefits to a prison system that allows

PHOTO: MCC

Children live in prison with parents

Tyler Regehr gets a hug from Carlita who lives with her parents in a prison.

families to stay together. Allowing prisoners to contribute to a community even though they are cut off from the outside world is also humane. Still, living with convicted criminals is not the best environment for children to grow up in, and so places like Casita make an enormous difference. – MCC

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 29

News

New Anabaptist curriculum coming fall 2014 Shine is successor to Gather ’Round HARRISONBURG, VA—Development of a new Anabaptist Sunday School curriculum called Shine: Living in God’s Light is underway, with it to be available for use in fall 2014. More than 18 months ago work began to prepare a successor to Gather ’Round, whose final quarter will be in summer 2014. Designed for children ages three through grade eight, Shine will incorporate the latest understandings of the ways children learn. The material is based on a three-year overview of the Bible, with a separate outline for early childhood (ages three to five). Sessions include an emphasis on teaching prayer and other spiritual practices, and will also highlight peace themes. Primary and middler children will read from a hardcover Bible storybook for use at church and home.

Junior youth will read stories directly from the Bible. The flexible multiage resource serves congregations with a small number of children of different ages. Like Gather ’Round, Shine will continue to be Bible story-based; lift up Christian discipleship, peace, simplicity, service, and community; use “wondering” questions and activities to help children reflect on the Bible stories and connect them to their lives; and provide various engaging activities. It is “a user-friendly, enriching curriculum that grows out of our distinct beliefs as Brethren and Mennonites,” notes Wendy McFadden, publisher of Brethren Press Shine is co-published by the Church of the Brethren, Mennonite Church Canada, and Mennonite Church USA. – MennoMedia

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Housing complex involves Eden, partners Slated to be open in April 2014 WINNIPEG, Man.—A new 45 unit safe, affordable, housing project, initiated by Eden Health Care Services of Winkler, held its ground–breaking on April 12, 2013, in north-east Winnipeg. This new apartment building will be known as Concordia Village IV and open in April 2014. Manitoba’s Minister of Housing and Community Development, Kerri Irvin-Ross, made the announcement to a crowd of 90 area residents and supporters Friday morning. In the past Eden, with its head offices in Winkler, Man., has constructed similar housing projects in Winkler and in Steinbach. These apartments provide safe, affordable housing for individuals and families who cannot afford the cost of today’s market

30 The Messenger • May 2013

rental rates. Eden’s housing projects support a range of needs including an emphasis on mental health. The apartment building will be constructed near Molson Street and Kimberly Avenue on a vacant portion of the Concordia Village campus. Concordia Village, a project of Concordia Wellness Projects Incorporated, is an assisted living housing facility for seniors. This project brings together Manitoba Housing, Concordia Wellness Projects and Eden Health Care Services. As Glen Klassen, EMC member and Eden’s chair of the housing initiative, notes, “It is gratifying to live in a society where social projects are initiated and supported by several levels of government in cooperation

with non-governmental, faith-based, groups such as Eden.” The federal government has provided $5.7 million for the project with Manitoba Housing providing the remainder. The total cost of the apartment complex is $11.9 million. Eden will invest in amenities in the common areas to add value to the community building aspect of the apartment. – Eden

News

MWC reps attend papal inauguration Will take step’s to lead differently in December 2012. Attending the inaugural services in Rome, at the invitation of the PCPCU, were MWC Henk Stenvers and Rainer Burkart representatives Rainer Burkart of Germany and Henk Stenvers of the Netherlands. “It was our impression that he will take steps to let the papal office appear in a different way,” they said. In an interview in a Dutch newspaper Stenvers noted that many world political leaders and royalty also attended, and he stressed the importance of the separation of church and state in the Anabaptist tradition. – MWC PHOTO: MWC

BOGOTA, Colombia – After the March 13 election of Argentinian Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio as Pope Francis, Mennonite World Conference issued a letter of congratulations and also sent two of its leaders to March 19 and 20 inaugural services in Rome. In a March 14 letter to the Pontifical Council for the Promotion of Christian Unity (PCPCU), César García, MWC General Secretary, wrote: “Without a doubt the ministry of Francis as the first Latin American—and the first Jesuit—Pope will bring new impetus to our relationships.” García expressed his belief that the history of MWC dialogues with the Catholic Church “will create important spaces for our churches under the pontificate of Pope Francis.” García referred to the 1998-2003 Mennonite-Catholic dialogue that led to the joint report “Called to Be Peacemakers” and to more recent trilateral dialogue on baptism– involving Catholics, Mennonites and Lutherans–begun

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SBC presents Jesus: Messiah Steinbach, Man.—Steinbach Bible College’s powerful drama Jesus: Messiah, presented March 21-24, received wonderfully positive reviews. More than twenty students, alumni, and community actors, under the direction of Richard Klassen (Candlewick Productions) presented a moving drama that gave a glimpse into the thoughts and reactions of Christ’s disciples, family, the religious leaders, and the public during his Passion Week. Richard Klassen and Robert Riddell wrote the script, noting “it was their hope that through the drama the audience might consider the eye-witness/character’s thoughts and reactions to this Jesus, to consider His real identity, and to be able to ask themselves if they can claim Him as their Messiah.” – SBC

PHOTO: SBC

Audience asked to consider his identity

An ancient question was presented for moderns: the identity of Jesus.

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 31

News

Assistant editor and trainee visit

Calendar Alberta July 5–7

PHOTO: ANDREW WALKER

STEINBACH, Man.—Rebecca Roman and her daughter, Evelyn Marie, visited the EMC national office on May 1. Evelyn, born on April 8, is the reason Rebecca is on maternity leave. Rebecca was happy to pose for a photo, but Evelyn was too sleepy to be interviewed. Greg was at work.

•• In Memory

1930 – 2012 Dad was born on Aug. 7, 1930, at the Rosenhof, Man., farmstead of his parents, Henry and Maria Friesen. He was the youngest son in the family and as his older siblings got married and moved off the farm, Dad stayed behind to support his aging parents. In July of 1950, Dad gave his heart to the Lord and was baptized shortly thereafter. In 1957 he began his service in the church and he would continue along this path for many years, be it teaching Sunday School or leading various Bible study groups. On August 2, 1963, Dad married his loving wife Elma in the Rosenort EM Church. They built their new home and life together on the same farmstead where he grew up. Dad 32 The Messenger • May 2013

Manitoba June 20

Rebecca and Evelyn Marie Roman stopped by for a visit.

Levi Dueck

Living as Kingdom People EMC Convention 2013 Speaker: Tim Geddert La Crete Christian Felllowship, La Crete 204-326-6401

continued with mixed farming and also worked part-time in construction. In 1967, Dad was ordained as a deacon in the church and he and Mom would serve diligently in this role for over thirty years. In 1969, Mom and Dad adopted the first of their two children with the second adoption following in 1971. While Dad was a hard worker and usually found on the fields or in the barn tending to the hogs, he always made time for his family. Christmas and birthday gifts were often homemade toys or items that Dad would discretely work on to surprise the children (and later, grandchildren). Dad also loved history and spent many years translating the diaries of our forebears, working carefully to maintain the integrity of the scripts and also preserving the genealogy. His passion for this resulted in his significant editing and translation contributions to several published books on extended family histories. As Dad was introduced to the new role of grandfather in 1986, his nurturing nature expanded to include grandchildren, and he was careful to model the same values to them that he

EMC Project Builders Golf Classic Steinbach Fly-In Golf Course Register with Ruth Penner by May 18: 204-255-8062 or rrpenner@shaw.ca www.emconference.ca, 204-326-6401

did to his children. After the Flood of ’97, Mom and Dad decided that they had enough of weathering floods, and in 2001 they left the farm to move into the Rosenort Housing complex. He and Mom adapted very quickly and immersed themselves in their new surroundings. Dad enjoyed playing crokinole with the neighbors and was also a Bible study leader at the residence. Dad spent ten good years in Rosenort before his health began to decline. He passed away on December 14, 2012, in Morris General Hospital with his family by his side and funeral services were held on December 18 at Rosenort EM Church. Levi is survived by his wife Elma, son Tim, daughter Lorna (Norman), and grandchildren Raymond (Mursal), Amber, Philip, Zacary and Abigail. He is also survived by one sister Agnes (Frank). He was predeceased by his parents, four sisters (two died in infancy) and four brothers. The family would like to thank Rosenort EMC, Morris Funeral Home, and the wonderful staff at St. Boniface Hospital for excellent care. – The Family

Shoulder Tapping EMC pastoral needs* *With any applications for EMC church pastoral positions, candidates are expected to also register a Ministerial Questionnaire with the EMC Board of Leadership and Outreach, which can be obtained through Erica Fehr, BLO Administrative Assistant, at efehr@emconf.ca or 204-326-6401. Taber EMC is seeking a full-time youth/associate pastor. Candidate should have the ability to plan and oversee a comprehensive youth ministry and oversee associate pastor ministries as arranged by the church leadership. Valuable assets would be skills in sports and music. Contact church board chair Abe Klassen at 403-223-0588 or 403-331-9563. Send resumes to Taber EMC, Box 4348, Taber, AB T1G 2C7 or taberemc@ yahoo.ca. Fort Garry Evangelical Mennonite Church is seeking a full-time senior pastor for an established, dynamic urban congregation with an average Sunday attendance of 225 people. We are an inter-generational, ethnically diverse congregation, located in Winnipeg, near the University of Manitoba, with programs for all age groups, and a strong ministry to international friends and university students. Working out of their own commitment to the Lordship of Christ, the ideal candidate is a collaborative and inspiring team leader and gifted speaker. They possess a reputable theological education at the graduate level and are committed to a theology shaped by Anabaptist tradition. Submit queries and résumés to rosemreimer@ gmail.com. Projected start date is September 2013. Christian Fellowship Church (EMC) in Birch River, Man., is currently seeking a part-time pastor. We are a small community church located 500 kms north of Winnipeg, Man., next to the Porcupine Provincial Forest, which lends itself to excellent hunting, fishing and camping opportunities. We are a friendly congregation with approximately 40 attendees and a vibrant community youth program. We have a history of long-term pastors with a heart for our community and varying levels of education. We also have strong ties to Steeprock Ministries, which runs a Bible camp that touches the lives of 300plus children from local First Nations communities every summer. Interested applicants may apply by sending a resume to Greg Thiessen at g.thiessen@yahoo.com; to Greg Thiessen, Box 224, Bowsman, MB R0L 0H0; or phoning 204-734-8395. New Life Christian Fellowship in Stevenson, Ont., seeks a senior pastor who has a heart for people and loves the Lord. We are an evangelical church located in Stevenson, Ontario. The church is mostly young families with average attendance between 80 and 100 people. The majority of the people attending have a Low German-speaking background. We seek a pastor who has the heart of a shepherd and a desire to see our church grow. He should have strong preaching and teaching skills and ability to develop

Other opportunities leaders. Pastoral experience is preferred. He must be in agreement with our constitution and statement of faith. Anyone who possesses these qualifications and is interested in this position can forward their resume to nlcf@ciaccess.com. Ridgewood EMC is looking for a full-time senior pastor. This multi-generational family oriented rural church is located north-east of Steinbach, Man., with over 200 in attendance on Sunday mornings. As the spiritual overseer, the senior pastor is the shepherd and guardian of the congregation. This ministry is accomplished by studying and teaching, praying and preaching, and visiting and visioning on the basis of the Word. Ridgewood EMC members strive to be a people that minister to the whole family, worshipping God together, sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ in love, responding to needs around, and cultivating a culture of Biblical discipleship, prayer and fellowship—all for the glory of God. Applications along with a cover letter should be sent to Stan Hamm, stan.hamm@prov.ca, or Stan Hamm, Box 140, Blumenort, MB R0A 0C0. Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship, an evangelical and friendly, Christ-centred church with approximately 100 regular attendees, is looking for a senior pastor who is especially gifted in preaching, teaching, and biblical guidance. Located in a vibrant forestry and mining community, one hour’s drive from Prince George, BC, we are looking for someone who can fulfill such pastoral duties as conducting weddings, baptisms, baby dedications, and funerals. With an ability to minister to all age groups, the applicant should be committed to a personal Christian faith and be a disciple of Jesus Christ. He should be a willing and teachable leader, and a person whose love for the Lord is reflected in his ability to work well with others. Feel free to check out our website at www.vcfemc.com for information. If the Holy Spirit seems to be inviting you to pursue this further, please contact Marcy Giesbrecht at mikegiesbrecht@msn.com., with your résumé and cover letter attached.

Steinbach Evangelical Mennonite Church is seeking an energetic director of worship arts to function in a half-time capacity within a team environment together with a lead pastor, associate pastor, youth pastor, community pastor, and support staff. Responsibilities and qualifications include the following: provide leadership in programs such as coordination of worship services, overseeing music related groups within the church, strong administrative support. other responsibilities may include overseeing Toddler Time and Kidz Kamp programs and responsibility for music and equipment purchases. Submit resumes and cover letters to chair of search committee, 422 Main St. Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5; or semcsearchcomm@gmail.com.

The Australian Conference of Evangelical mennonites Church of Hope requires an enthusiastic pastor with a passion for Christ to come to Australia for a minimum term of two years to take over the spiritual leadership of the church For information on this position please contact: Anne McQueen (annemcqueen@dodo.com.au) or David Rouse (dmrouse@idl.net.au). Mid-Way Christian Leadership, based in Thompson Man., is looking for an adult life coach, youth life coach and office manager. Please email generaldirector.mcl@gmail.com for full job descriptions or inquiries. If you love teenagers, consider this: Arborg Youth for Christ is seeking a director to lead an active youth centre in Arborg, Man. Contact Information: Keith Tarry, 333 King Street, Winnipeg, MB R3B 0N1; keith@ yfcwinnipeg.ca; 204-669-4205, ext. 204. Inner City Youth Alive seeks a full-time administrative assistant to provide reception services for all ICYA staff and programs, and to provide assistance to administration staff. Contact Dory Richards, dory@ icya.ca. Further description at www.icya.ca. First Mennonite Church, Burns Lake, a small body of believers in northern BC, is looking for a part–time or full–time servant leader pastor. Our candidate will agree with the Confession of Faith in the Mennonite Perspective. Please send your resume to FMC c/o Wilf Dueck wedueck@telus.net, phone 250-692-3455 or (cell) 250-692-6454.

Rosedale Bible College (Irwin, Ohio) invites nominations and resumes for the role of president. Rosedale Bible College is an evangelical junior Bible college in the Anabaptist tradition that equips students to grow spiritually and academically and to serve effectively in the church and society. Inquiries and/or resumes can be submitted to: presidentsearch@rosedale.edu. West Zion Mennonite Church, a rural church near Carstairs, Alta., is seeking an experienced full-time senior/lead pastor for a multi-staff growing congregation of 180–200 in a rural/urban setting 70 kms north of Calgary. We are a Mennonite church that is evangelical and outreach/missions oriented. The applicant should be a deeply spiritual leader gifted in preaching/teaching and one who is committed to doing pastoral work. Interested persons should send a resume, a brief biography and statement of faith to: James Miller, Box 1078, Didsbury, AB T0M 0W0. MCC Manitoba is seeking to fill the position of financial services coordinator. This full-time, salaried, term position (13 months) is responsible for planning, organizing and managing all aspects of the finances of MCC Manitoba. A detailed job description is available at serve.mcccanada.ca

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 33

Columns • here and far away

Pure joy

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PHOTO: JOCELYN R. PLETT

by Jocelyn R. Plett www.writewhatyousee. wordpress.com

ure joy” is not what I’m thinking moment. I don’t often have the presence of about when my three-year-old comes mind to focus on persevering however, even if inside crying — again—because he’s allowing perseverance to “finish its work in me’ been mistreated by the neighbour kid while will bring me closer towards maturity, and God’s playing outside. view of perfection, not lacking in anything. It’s not what Josh is experiencing when he The key, as always, is in the receiving. comes back from the Aviation Authorities office James continues, “If any of you lack wisdom at 8:30 p.m. on Friday night after having had (my hand rises up faster than the African to go in and once again explain something that sunrise), [s]he should ask God, who gives generhas been previously ously to all without approved in order finding fault”( v. 5). to do a flight the Without findnext morning—this ing fault with the being necessary fact that my first because someone instinct is to act out didn’t do their job in un-love toward passing along critical my neighbour. Give information. me wisdom, Lord, “Pure joy” is not to turn to You first often what comes to when this trial mind when we face walks, crying, in my trials of many kinds, front door. I want to and yet that’s what receive a generous the half-brother of serving of Your One of the Plett children showing joy on a swing. Jesus encourages us to think of these aggravawisdom to know how to deal with this problem, tions, these “trials.” because I believe that there is a solution that James tells us, “Consider it pure joy whenever glorifies Your Name. you face trials of many kinds, because you know Despite the discomfort of “trials,” Lord, I that the testing of your faith develops perseverrecognize the gracious gifts you have hidden ance. Perseverance must finish its work so that in these thorny patches for those who have the you may be mature and complete, not lacking presence of mind to turn to You for wisdom and anything” (James 1:2-4). allow perseverance Is it a testing of my faith when I feel my to have its way rather blood begin to boil and my impatience rise to than impatience and the surface like the frothy scum in the street gut- angry reactions. ters? Do I have the wherewithal to realize that Life throws us all I am being offered the opportunity to develop many “trials” on a perseverance (steadfastness) when my first daily basis. Considreaction is to allow my mind to despair at the ering them “pure joy” inability to allow my son to play unsupervised in has focused my attenour own front yard? tion on what gifts lay Yes, it is the testing of my faith, and I am hidden within the irritating wrapping and what being offered the opportunity to develop a life I stand to gain if I can react with God’s wisdom, of steadfast, grace-filled living in that heated given freely to those who ask.

Give me wisdom, Lord, to turn to You first when this trial walks, crying, in my front door.

34 The Messenger • May 2013

Columns • stewardship today

Don’t do as I do?

PHOTO: MFC

e can be sure that the children and youth around us are observing our money habits— sometimes in surprising detail. On a shopping trip with my then young children, one of them was pestering me to buy something that they wanted. After my using a lack of cash as an excuse not to buy the item, my child pressed me saying, “You know you can pay for it—you have that card.” It was definitely time for me to talk with my children about how credit cards work. I explained to them that whenever I paid for an item with a credit card, I wanted to make sure there was enough money in my account to pay for every purchase. Money is complicated. On top of that, we live in a world saturated with advertising. Ads tell our children and youth that they are what they buy. We need to counter some of these messages with conversation that we are more than the

MMFY is available online for free.

products in our lives. We certainly don’t want to end up admitting, “Don’t do as I do, do as I say.” To encourage money conversations between youth and their adult mentors in church, Mennonite Foundation of Canada offers the free, online resource, Money Matters for Youth (MMFY). The hope is that the information and activities included in this resource can stimulate conversations about this taboo subject in our churches. From Fun facts about Canadian currency to the Needs vs. Wants prayer, each session weaves practical information together with a spiritual connection. Topics in MMFY include: biblical perspectives on money – whose money is it anyway? what spending says about us – budgeting and understanding debt, learning to defer gratification – saving for future dreams, and raising our standard of giving – God invites us to share. The message throughout is that choices we make with our money can either draw us closer to God’s heart or move us farther away. In the final session, youth are invited to reflect on the quote, “Credit cards have made it possible to buy things we don’t need, with money we don’t have, to impress people we don’t like.” We must admit that no matter what our age, we are tempted to impress. Money Matters for Youth doesn’t propose to have all the answers. We hope it sparks conversations across generations about the mechanics of money and the values that shape our money choices. Perhaps we’ll all learn something, have some fun in the process, and avoid the temptation to say, “Don’t do as I do....” MMFY is a free resource available online at mennofoundation.ca/mmfy.

by Dori Zerbe Cornelsen

Dori Zerbe Cornelsen is a stewardship consultant in the Winnipeg, Man., office of Mennonite Foundation of Canada. For information on impulsive generosity, stewardship education and estate and charitable gift planning, contact your nearest MFC office or visit www.mennofoundation.ca.

www.emconference.ca/messenger • The Messenger 35

Columns • kids’ corner

Looking for signs of spring

by Loreena Thiessen

f you go down to the woods today, you’re sure of a big surprise….” What is the surprise? If you guessed a picnic by teddy bears, you’re right. Signs of spring are another kind of surprise. You find them in the woods, in a park, on your way to school, and on the school playground. They are a surprise because you don’t know exactly what you’ll see or when. This year the wait has often been extra long. And the change is drastic, from all white to bright colors, from very cold to comfortably warm. The most obvious signs are the ones you can easily see. You see the snow disappear and underneath, grass begins to show, brown, then it slowly turns to green. Tulips, daffodils, and dandelions appear. Canada Geese, mallards and robins return from their winter home. As soon as the snow is gone they find grasses and a good spot to build a nest. A few weeks later fluffy yellow goslings and ducklings march along following their parents. How does spring feel? The sun shines warm on your skin and you leave your winter jacket and toque for a hoodie or t-shirt. Touch new grass and fresh buds on trees—they feel soft like velvet. To feel the earth you can take some

Activity: Looking for signs of spring

Need: Drawing paper or notepaper, camera, pencil, crayons. Do: Take a walk to look for signs of spring. Make headings on your drawing paper or notepaper, one for each of the five senses: see, hear, taste, feel, smell. For each sense make a note, draw a picture, or take a photo of something you find that is a sign of spring. Share your findings with family or friends.

36 The Messenger • May 2013

PHOTO: DESIGNPICS

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soil from a bag and plant seeds in containers indoors. When it’s warm enough you can put them outside so they will grow tall and strong. What is the taste of spring? It’s your first ice cream cone you eat outdoors, crisp salad from the first lettuce leaves in your garden, a picnic, sipping a cool drink sitting on the grass, the sun bright and warm all around you. And the smell of spring? The air smells fresh. New blossoms, lilacs and apple trees, fill the air with their perfume as you walk by. Your nose will tell you when chicken or hamburgers are sizzling on the barbeque. You’ll eat them on the deck or in the park and you know spring is here. What are the sounds of spring? The robin’s four up and down notes clearly announce he is on a branch nearby, and his sharp alarm call warns of danger. The crow caws urgently from a rooftop. Soccer players shout at each other to pass the ball, then kick it with an explosive thud and it soars over the field. Your feet pound on the pavement as you run. Your bike tires hum as you ride. Your senses are treasures; they are valuable to you. Through your five senses you experience everything around you. God has created it all for you to enjoy. Read Psalm 104:10-24.

The Messenger Evangelical Mennonite Conference 440 Main St, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 Publications Mail Agreement #40017362