The Messenger Vol. 42 No. 22 December 22, 2004 by The Messenger

Paved roads: Preparing for royalty

Messenger The

EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE VOLUME 42 NUMBER 22 DECEMBER 22, 2004

Potholes were ﬁlled

Preparing for Royalty Pastor Brad Schneck

FEW YEARS ago when my family and I lived in Saskatchewan, his Royal Highness, Charles, Prince of Wales, came for a visit. Prince Charles had never visited Saskatchewan before; this caused a good deal of excitement for the province. I remember that before the Prince arrived there was a flurry of activity. The towns in which the Prince was to visit went into clean up mode. Streets were swept, potholes were filled, windows were washed, and trash was picked up throughout the Prairies. The province was now prepared for the visitation of the Prince. Finally the day came when the Prince arrived. The people of Saskatchewan could now get a glimpse of royalty. From farm and ranch from Assiniboia to Saskatoon, the people of Saskatchewan gave a royal welcome to the Prince. Waiting and watching for royalty is a major theme for the Advent season. The word Advent comes from the Latin word for arrival or coming. From around the sixth century the Church has celebrated the four Sundays before Christmas as the season of Advent. Traditionally, Advent is a time of preparation for the celebration of the first coming of Christ. Traditionally, it is viewed as a time of prayer and repentance. It has also been a time in which the Church has reflected on the Second Advent or Second Coming of Christ. The emphasis in Advent is on preparation and readiness. As the season of Advent is now well upon us, I couldn’t help but reflect on the visit of the Prince 2

of Wales to Saskatchewan and the visit of the Prince of Peace to Bethlehem. The people of Saskatchewan were prepared and waiting for Prince Charles’s arrival. When he did arrive, the red carpet was rolled out and the people welcomed him. The arrival of the Prince of Peace to Bethlehem, on the other hand, was rather ordinary. Or shall we say extraordinary? Luke 2:1–15 gives us this description. Who is it that welcomes Royalty? Typically if a member of the Royal family comes to Canada they are welcomed by the Prime Minister and Governor General. After that it may be a Premier of a province, a Lieutenant Governor, and, at the very least, a mayor of the city or town. Who welcomed Jesus to Bethlehem? Was it emperors, governors, and mayors? No, it was the shepherds. At that time, shepherds were just about the lowest on the social status rung that one could get. It is these social misﬁts, these lowly shepherds, who go and welcome the King of Kings. What would happen if the next time the Queen comes to Canada we send a shepherd to greet Her Majesty? I can see it now: As the Queen descends the stairs from the Royal Plane, Jack the shepherd shouts, “Howdy, Queen! Welcome to Canada! Hope you don’t mind, but the PM was mighty busy today so he sent me instead.”

ven for us today it sounds absurd to send a shepherd to greet royalty. Who would allow a shepherd to greet royalty? God would, and He did. But why shepherds? Perhaps it has something to do with what Mary said in Luke 1:51–52: “He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble.” Why did God announce the coming of royalty to a bunch of nobodies like the shepherds? Because shepherds were real people. They wore no masks. They didn’t have to pretend to be a somebody. They were meek and humble, just like Jesus. Psalm 138:6 says, “Though the Lord is on high, he looks upon the lowly, but the proud he knows from afar.” Why are the proud so far from God? It’s because they are self-sufficient. They don’t need God because they have themselves. There is only room enough in their heart for one god and they are it. I have a question for you, the reader. Is there room enough in your heart to welcome the meek and humble Christ Child? Or will pride and self-sufficiency keep you from recognizing His coming? Christmas is a time when we celebrate the first arrival of Christ. We look back at the humility it took for God to become man and be our Emmanuel, our “God with us.” We look back and see the cute little baby lying in the manger. Songs like Away in the Manger and Silent Night stir our sentimental emotions. Is there anything wrong with these sentimental emotions? I THE MESSENGER

don’t think so. Each Sunday as I stand at the back of the church to shake hands I get to see lots of babies. Let’s face it, babies are cute—with their chubby little cheeks, their chunky little hands and their eyes that sparkle at you. So when we remember the birth of Christ and picture him as a baby it is only natural that it stirs sentimental emotions. I believe that remembering Christ as a baby helps us to remember the humanity of Christ. It helps us remember that he went through the same life experiences that we did, only without sin.

ooking back at the birth of Christ is a good thing. Traditionally, the season of Advent is a time of preparation for the celebration of the first coming of Christ. It is viewed as a time of prayer and repentance. But we must not forget that Advent has also been a time in which the Church has reflected on the Second Advent or Second Coming of Christ. Jesus said, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am” (John 14:3). This verse is a literal promise that Christ will come again. The return of Christ, his Second Coming gives the believer hope. We have something to look forward to on that glorious day. Like the First Coming, the Second Coming brings hope. When we look forward to the Second Coming of our King we have to realize that it will be vastly different from his first coming. At his first coming Christ came as a helpless babe. He was born in the most humble of conditions. Meek and lowly, gentle and mild is how the Christ Child came into our world— the first time.

The Apostle John paints quite a different picture of Christ’s next royal visit. We ﬁnd this picture in Revelation 19:11–16. Take a moment to read this vivid description of Christ’s Second Coming. In this text we ﬁnd that the helpless Babe of Bethlehem has grown up. The one who said of himself, “I am gentle and humble in heart” (Matt. 11:29) is back. The gentle healer, the meek servant who blesses the little children, the Lamb of God who allowed himself to die on the cross for humanity’s sin is back. He is back not as Babe, but as the conquering King who comes in majesty and splendour. His entrance is not on a little donkey, but a frightful war-horse. The time of God’s grace, His patience, His long suffering has come to a close. The one who is called Faithful and True has come in fury and in wrath. He has come to make war, a just war. Revelation 19:11 says, “With justice he judges and makes war.” Is there such a thing as a just war? Yes there is; but the irony is only when it is waged by the Prince of Peace.

Are our hearts prepared to celebrate the arrival of the meek Christ Child? Are our hearts prepared for when the King of kings and Lord of lords returns with majesty and power?

hen sinful man wages war the innocent will always die. Man’s judgments are twisted because of sin. Christ alone can judge and make war with perfect justice. When Christ wages war, the guilty will pay the price, not the innocent. What should our response be to this awesome Second Coming? Matthew 24 gives us insight into this question. Christ tells us to “keep watch” (Matt. 24:42) and “Be ready” (Matt. 24:44). Keep watch. Be ready. What should our response be to Christ’s Second Advent? Keep watch. Be ready. Royalty is coming for a visit; we had better be ready. When Prince Charles visited Saskatchewan streets were swept, potholes were filled, windows were washed, and trash was picked up throughout the Prairies. The province was prepared for the visitation of the Prince. As Christmas quickly approaches we need to ask ourselves if we are prepared. Are our hearts prepared In July, Brad Schneck began serving as pastor to celebrate the arrival of the meek at Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship (EMC) in Christ Child? Are our hearts prepared for British Columbia. when the King of kings and Lord of lords Brad and his wife Cathie have three girls, returns with majesty and power? Anna, Andrea, and Allison. Brad grew up “The best way to prepare for the in Pandora, Ohio, where he attended St. coming of Christ is never to forget the John Mennonite Church. He graduated presence of Christ,” wrote William from Moody Bible Institute, holds a BA from Barclay. May we celebrate the presence Briercrest Bible College, and recently received of Christ this Christmas, and may we a Certificate of Seminary from Briercrest Biblical celebrate the presence of Christ each day Seminary. Under Avant Ministries, Brad served T as we eagerly watch for His return. M as a missionary for five years in Alaska and three years in Quebec. December 22, 2004

Cards with idyllic scenes of Bethlehem do not reﬂect it as it is today or was at Jesus’ birth

This Christmas in Bethlehem Dr. Terry Hiebert

But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times (Micah 5:2).

RECEIVE a Christmas card with Mary and Joseph leisurely camping outside the cattle stall in Bethlehem. Their faces glow with adoration while the peaceful baby Jesus sleeps in Mary’s arms. In the background, unlit homes of Bethlehem nestle in the Judean hills. Clouds in the night sky gently part to reveal a lone bright star indicating the Saviour’s birth. Inside the card I find a verse from Luke and sentimental words written by a professional card writer, “May God bless you this season with the joy that thrills the heart and takes you, wherever you are, to the manger at Bethlehem.” I wonder. Has the writer ever visited Bethlehem? Or did she borrow the popular images of the 19th century carol, O Little Town of Bethlehem? In 1865, the American preacher Phillips Brooks visited Bethlehem. He was deeply moved by the peaceful town. Three years later Brooks wrote a children’s carol for his church Christmas program based on his experience of Bethlehem. Recently I visited Bethlehem. I wondered if my experiences or those of Mary and Joseph matched the words of the Christmas carol. O little town of Bethlehem, How still we see thee lie! Mary and Joseph made the long and difficult journey from Galilee to Bethlehem. Only to find that this little town of a few hundred people was too small to host the swell of travellers. The couple would have found rooms available. This West Bank town of 45,000 Muslims and Christians is 4

remarkably quiet. We arrive at a hotel for a meeting only to find the lobby empty. We are one of the few tour buses to successfully cross the checkpoint between Jerusalem and Bethlehem. But would they have been allowed into the city? Jerusalem is Israeli. Bethlehem is Palestinian. Few people are permitted to enter or leave the city. An imposing 10-metre high wall separates the city from the outside world. For Israelis the wall represents peace and security. For Palestinians, it means poverty and isolation. On this Friday morning there is new meaning to how still we see thee lie. Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by Jesus was born in the middle of mayhem. Townspeople rejoiced to see distant family members. From a distance, oppressive foreign powers played chess with the lives of ordinary people. How much deep and dreamless sleep could Mary and Joseph find? At mid-morning we walk across manger square close to the Church of the Nativity. A few persistent vendors make final deals with us before we slip into the holy place. We stoop through the lowered door to enter the church. You need humility to worship the Christ Child. Once inside sincere worshippers jostle in cramped quarters. They wait for the brief chance to kneel and pray. There on the floor lies a 14-pointed star marking the exact spot where God became

An apartment complex at Beit Sahur, a settlement near Bethlehem, slated for destruction as the Wall is being built directly behind it. (photo courtesy PENGON/Anti-Apartheid Wall Campaign)

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man. I kneel in a desperate attempt to absorb the wonder of this moment. But beneath my deep and dreamless sleep, this silent star slips by. Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting Light In Hebrew, Bethlehem means house of bread and in Arabic, house of meat. The name makes me hungry. Our guide recommends the falafel—fried peas, onions, and spices in pancake batter. Tastes great. Talk about stomach unrest. The day started cloudy with showers, but now the sun is shining again. Earlier this morning Muslim clerics made impassioned pleas from loudspeakers. This is Ramadan. For 30 days Muslims celebrate when Allah dictated the Koran to prophet Mohammed. The word of Allah is more important than food. So during the day they fast. Pictures of Palestinian revolutionaries are plastered on lampposts along the street. Even children are addicted to news about the United States election. Shopkeepers stare vacantly toward the street in hopes of business. And in the MCC ofﬁces down the street an impassioned Filipino Canadian tour member pleads with workers to make Jesus the only light on these dark streets. Mary would have treasured those words in her heart.

Herod’s impressive building projects are still seen within a short drive from Bethlehem. But only a few local shepherds, two elderly saints in Jerusalem, and magi from a distant land glimpsed the kingdom that Lamb would build. Anne is our 66-year-old team member. Tears in her eyes express what it means to fulﬁll a lifelong dream to see the place where Jesus lived. We have no tears for Herod. Amen Returning to Jerusalem, I am thankful for coming to Bethlehem. Palestinian Christian, Zoughbi Zoughbi thanks our group for coming in what he calls “interesting” and “challenging” times for Bethlehem. Jesus also came in interesting times that ﬁrst Christmas. But T as Zoughbi says, “Just being in Bethlehem brings hope!” M Dr. Terry Hiebert teaches theology and general studies at Steinbach Bible College. He was the Bible teacher on TourMagination’s recent Lands of the Bible tour from October 20 to November 2, 2004. Terry invites you to join him for the next Israel tour on October 19–31, 2005. Contact thiebert@sbcollege.mb.ca or 204-326-6451 for details.

O holy Child of Bethlehem! Descend to us, we pray; Cast out our sin, and enter in; Be born in us today. We hear the Christmas angels the great glad tidings tell; O come to us, abide in us, Our Lord Emmanuel.

The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight A short drive from the old town of Bethlehem leads to Shepherd’s Field. We walk through the small caves where shepherds kept their ﬂocks at night. During lambing season the sheep were moved outside town limits. The reason? Lambs mess up peaceful communities. The hopes and fears of old Bethlehem focused on their king. A powerful but aging Herod felt the threat of the newborn king. Fear of the Lamb drove a mighty king to slaughter innocent sheep. December 22, 2004

letter Moderator commended for Missile Defence letter I would like to commend the EMC Moderator, Rev. Ron Penner, for his September 21 letter [noted in Nov. 3, 2004, issue] urging our Prime Minister not to become involved with the Ballistic Missile Defence System. Ron (I use his first name because I count him as a personal friend) identified the basic arguments and he wrote in a fine Christian tone, as befits a church leader. Ron Penner and the EMC can take credit for “leading the way.” On November 27, the MCCC delegate body authorized a letter to the Prime Minister that included a similar message regarding the BMD. Perhaps those of working under MCC should look to Ron and the EMC for direction in all matters. Bill Janzen Director, Ottawa office MCC Canada

The

editorials

The good news of Jesus

E NEED the good news of Christ. The historic Christian faith is good news. It includes forgiveness, hope, meaning, love and life, togetherness, and eternity rooted in Christ. We cannot manage life alone, and Christ came to right what we cannot. Stanley Grenz, a Baptist minister, says, “The universal history of all creation and the histories of every person who has ever lived ultimately ﬁnds their signiﬁcance in, and take their meaning from…Jesus of Nazareth.” A couple of generations ago, Sadhu Sundar Singh, a former Sikh who became a Christian, was asked by a British reporter what had he found in the Christianity that he had not found in his former faith. He replied, “Jesus Christ.” Singh served as an evangelist and eventually went to share news of Jesus in Tibet. He never returned, likely a martyr for his faith in Christ.

EDITOR Terry M. Smith

Yes, parts of the Christian Church are rocked by scandals and the commercialization of Christmas disappoints many of us. Still, the wonder of Christmas is Jesus Christ. Who, being in the very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness, And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, T to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:6–11 M Terry M. Smith

World AIDS Day

ECEMBER 1 was World AIDS Day. On each day, many people around the world receive news that they have HIV/AIDS. Millions have gotten the news already, while others don’t want to know, but secretly fear it. There are estimated to more about 40 million victims of HIV/AIDS worldwide, more than there are citizens of Canada. There is currently no cure for AIDS. Medical supplies to extend life are unavailable to many people, partly because prices are often higher than many families can afford. The government of Brazil recently decided to break the patent on some antiviral drugs, saying it was more important to save lives than to ensure that multinational companies earn higher proﬁts. Leprosy, the bubonic plague, Spanish Flu—AIDS is the latest in a list of major medical threats the world and the Church has faced. The early church historian Eusebius reported that while non-Christians ﬂed, early Christians in 6

Messenger

Alexandria ministered to victims of the plague, and their lifeless bodies were often carried out next. Today, many people of goodwill, in and out of the Church, are involved in battling HIV/AIDS, and more help is needed. In 1557 Menno Simons learned the “the fire of pestilence is beginning to rage” in Amsterdam. He counselled Christians to live faithfully, to rest in the “unique and atoning sacrifice” of Christ’s “unmerited bitter death,” and to not fear death. He reminded Christians that “the number of your days, nay, your life, is measured as by handbreaths from Him.” “Therefore do not fear,” Menno said, “but willingly serve each other in time of need. Oh, do not let the visiting of the sick vex you, for by this you shall be established in love…And it is also the nature of true love to lay down our lives for the brethren” (Complete Writings, pp. 1055–1057). T Those are difficult, challenging words. M Terry M. Smith

ASSISTANT EDITOR Rebecca Buhler THE MESSENGER is the pub-lication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. It is available to the general public. Its purpose is to inform, instruct and inspire: 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. The views and opinions expressed by the writers are their own and do not necessarily represent the position of the Conference or the editors. THE MESSENGER is published twice a month (once a month in July and August) by the Board of Church Ministries of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference, 440 Main Street, Steinbach, Manitoba. Subscriptions: $12 per year (Manitoba residents add 7% PST, total: $12.84). Subscriptions are voluntary and optional to people within or outside of the EMC. In cooperation with the EMC Conference Council, members and adherents pay through their church. THE MESSENGER is a member of Meetinghouse and Canadian Church Press. Second-class postage paid at Steinbach, Manitoba. PAP Registration #9914 Publications Mail Agreement #40017362

We acknowledge the ﬁnancial support of the Government of Canada, through the Publications Assistance Program (PAP), toward our mailing costs. The magazine and its publisher, the Board of Church Ministries, are obligated to work within the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act. Mailing information: All correspondence, including undelivered copies, change of address and new subscriptions, should be addressed to: The Messenger 440 Main Street Steinbach, Manitoba R5G 1Z5 Phone: 204-326-6401 Fax: 204-326-1613 E-mail: emcmessenger@mts.net On-line edition available at www.emconf.ca/Messenger

MESSENGER SCHEDULE: No. 2 – January 26 (copy due January 14)

THE MESSENGER

with our missionaries Mexico

Twenty years, then and now In July 1984 Marie and I were assigned a church-planting role in Camp 67, Chihuahua state, Mexico. After seven years of labour at that place and a couple of subsequent visits, we went for what we thought might be our last visit in July 2004. We wanted to see the work that was started during our time there. Our aim was to see some of the converts from our time there and to encourage them in the Lord. One of our desires was to see missionaries Peter and Kathy Friesen before they left Mexico. Without knowing it in advance, we came at an interesting time. A number of events had been planned during our two-week stay. On the ﬁrst Sunday of our stay a man and his wife were leading the singing; he was a convert from our time, and could barely read when he made his decision for Christ. Already before the service, I met a man who frequented our place as a youth. He now wanted to ask for forgiveness, which I gladly gave, for his mischief at our place years before. His brother had us on his conscience for years too. We were staying at the motel close by, so I invited his brother to come see us some evening. He and his wife came to see us later that week. There was forgiveness, and a good time of sharing and studying the Lord’s

Prayer in Low German. This seemed to be the only form of praying they are familiar with, and not understanding much of what it means at that, except for the part about forgiveness. They were glad to pray with us. This, of course, was not new to him, as I always prayed with them when the youth were at our house for faspa years ago. On the next Sunday, our last one there, a baptism and membership acceptance service was held during the morning service. The older couple, John and Susanna, had attended faithfully for many years and were ﬁnally ready to take this step. His testimony was, in part, that he should have done this years ago. Hers was that she had a good husband, and she wanted to do what he wants. The young man who was baptized seemed sure about his decision to live for Christ. There was a noon potluck in the gym for which most of the people stayed. In the afternoon there was a communion and footwashing service with 31 people present; it was very meaningful to us. In the past we had a few communion services, but only a handful or so people were present. During the last part of the service there was a heavy thunderstorm and a heavy rain came down, which added to the blessing, as people constantly wait for rain. Twenty years ago, when we ﬁrst came to the area, it was the rainy season too.

There were few bridges and no paved roads in the area. We often had to wait for streams to go down or for help to tow us through high water creeks. Now there are good paved roads and bridges over major creeks. Twenty years ago we saw many horse-drawn carriages on the roads. Now we only saw one mule-drawn vehicle. A major part of our work years ago was to run the EMC mission school. Many Old Colony children do not learn to read much at all. If they learn to read, they do so only in High German. This does not prepare them for any vocation other than manual work, and only the lowest paying jobs, if any at all, are available to them. This results in much poverty. We believe the school in Camp 67 is doing an important work. It has served many people, giving them a better life ﬁnancially and spiritually. The work that has been done at Camp 67 through EMC mission efforts over the years has certainly not been in vain. It was uplifting to see the fruits of these efforts. Jake and Marie Plett Jake and Marie Plett were involved in church planting and youth ministry in Chihuahua state, Mexico, from 1984–91.

EMC Day of Prayer for Missions is

Sunday, January 9, 2005 Pray for workers in EMC-administered ﬁelds and under associate missions Pray for more people to heed God’s call to go and tell the Good News

Marie and Jake Plett ﬂank Susanna and John, new members at Camp 67.

December 22, 2004

The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few... 7

window on missions Len Barkman

The emerging Mennonite church in Burkina Faso, West Africa

enedougou, Bobo, Oradara, Kartasso, Tin, Somoghori, Burkina Faso. Abdias Coulibaly is president of the national Kotoura might not easily roll off the tongue, but many church and pastor of Orodara congregation. In addition to will recognize them as place names in Burkina Faso, his pastoral duties and ministry in neighbouring villages, he West Africa. airs a radio program on HIV-AIDS awareness and prevention. When Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission ﬁrst began ministry Siaka Troare serves as an executive director with MCC in Burkina Faso in 1978, they were asked to locate in stationed in Ougadougou and is the national church’s viceKenedougou province and work with translation and church president. planting programs among tribal groups. Today Scripture Calixte Bananzaro is a linguist to begin a translation translation is well underway among Nanerege, Siamou, project among the Sicite in Kenedougou province. Each Somogho, and Sicite language groups. Five churches have man is well educated and trained with a strong vision for been started with a combined membership of over 300 the church’s growth and development. A priority they are believers, and organized under the Evangelical Mennonite strongly promoting is the development of a leadership Conference of Burkina Faso. training and resource centre where men and women can be EMC members, both short-term as well as career, have prepared for pastoral ministry, where youth and women’s contributed to establishing the church in Burkina Faso over workshops can be held, and facilities can produce radio the past 20 years. In September 2004 I had the privilege of programs. Their dream is to see churches and new believers traveling to Burkina Faso. After some 40 hours en route, multiplied in the next 10 years. including being overnight in the capital Ougadougou, I The Sunday morning worship service at Orodara church arrived in the small, interior village of Tin. Here Paul and was a beautiful picture of what the Lord has done in this Lois Thiessen, together with their children Jonathan, Caleb village. A large proportion of the congregation was young and Sarah, live and carry on their translation work among people and children. There was exuberance in worship and I the Siamou people. Their daughter Ruth has joined them for saw the potential of these many youthful believers becoming this year to home school her younger siblings. evangelists, church planters and compassionate servants of The hospitality of the village chief and elders and their Christ in the church’s future development. openness in relating to Thiessens was evident. Several In this new partnership the EM conference will continue villagers in Tin have become believers and others are open to uphold our missionaries in their ministry, and develop to the message. Thiessens look forward to the day when more personal church to church relationships with stories of God’s love and salvation will be in print, people Burkinabe believers. Many opportunities for sharing gifts will accept the message, and a church in Tin will become a between us will be available. May these become avenues reality. of blessing as we participate together in the building of the T One purpose in traveling to Burkina Faso was to church of Christ! M participate in the inaugral meetings of the new AIMM International Council and the Burkina Faso Partnership Council. These meetings in Orodara were historic as the BFPC took on the responsibility of administration and program development in Burkina Faso. The Council has three representatives from the national church, a missionary representative, and representatives from conference agencies. It was encouraging to experience a strong sense of common purpose and unity in plans for both translation/church planting projects and outreach ministries of the national church. There will be challenges in any transition and here, too, the Partnership Council is working through matters of property ownership, program development, and the assignment of personnel and evangelism. It’s a blessing to know the three national representatives and their vision for reaching spiritual and physical needs of the people of The Burkina Faso Partnership Council discusses a national evangelism strategy.

THE MESSENGER

with our churches

Showers and church camp Evangelical Fellowship Church (Fort Frances, Ont.): “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer” (Psalm 19:14). I hope all of you had an inspirational summer as you relaxed on sandy beaches or drove through wheat ﬁelds or camped in a park in the great outdoors. Many of our church people experienced some of these things this past summer as they went on vacation. All in all, we have had a busy summer and fall and now we are moving into the Christmas season. So many things have happened that I will not try to tell you about them all. One of the highlights that took place was the shower for Stacy Plett, Pastor Jeff and Laural Ann’s eldest daughter, who married Scott Gosman at the end of August. Many of the church people put on a shower for Stacy at Agnes Martens’ home. It was a fun time of games, delicious food and opening many gifts. This was a surprise shower and Stacy really was surprised when she entered Agnes’s home and everyone yelled that special word— “Surprise! Gotcha!” Scott and Stacy now reside and work in Fort Frances. Another wedding shower was given for Jodi Barker at our church on July 26 at 7:30 p.m. About 35 friends and relatives showed up to participate in this fun evening of good food, games and the opening of many gifts. Jodi was all smiles the whole evening as she waded through tissue paper, bags and boxes

to find some delightful gifts. Jodi’s mother, Wanda, her flower girls and bridesmaids all helped to make this a fun evening. At the start of the shower, some faith songs of praise were sung and someone read a story about how the first shower came about, which proved interesting. One of the games we played was called Dress the Bride. Three young ladies were selected and Evelyn Barker plays Toss the Balloon with her great-granddaughter. placed in opposite ends of the room. The rest of and roast marshmallows. The weather people were divided into three groups, was pleasant most of the weekend. and each group was sent to stand around Saturday brought more fun with one of the young ladies in the room. Each everyone participating in games like group was given a roll of toilet paper and Beanbag Toss, Egg Toss, Water Balloon told to make a wedding dress by wrapping Toss, and a Three-Legged Race. Clare and toilet paper around the young lady in their Char Brubaker won the Egg Toss. By the group. This ended up being hilarious. way, Clare and Char are newlyweds also; When the time was up, Jodi had to choose they just got married this summer. which wedding dress was the best. Ivan Plett gave the message on Sunday On September 12, our church morning in the church service held in the congregation and invited guests spent main lodge and the EMC Music Group the weekend at Sunny Cove Camp— provided lovely inspirational songs and something we do every year. On Friday encouraged everyone to join in. All in all, it night, there was a weiner roast, table was a most relaxing weekend where both games, Hide and Go Seek and later on young and old could join the festivities. everyone gathered around a bonfire on I hope that all of you had a wonderful the beach to sing songs of praise to God summer and will have a blessed Christmas as you put Jesus in the centre of your celebrations. Remember, Jesus said, “Abide in me and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me” (John 15:4). Evelyn Hicks

Correction: MFC should be under partnerships In the issue of Celebration! (Oct. 20, 2004) Mennonite Foundation of Canada should have been listed under partnerships, not associations. EMC, EMMC and CMC are part owners of MFC. Editors Jodi Barker opens gifts at her July 26 shower, while her mother, Wanda, takes notes.

December 22, 2004

Baptisms, church camp and graduation Community Bible Fellowship to Winnipeg in September and (Swan River, Man.): Sunday, the Mlazgars moved west near June 27, we celebrated togEdmonton. The Pot family has ether in the baptisms of Bob been part of our congregation and Ruth Boyachek, Alicia for nine years and has been Gibbings, Brook Burick and very active in the church, Elaine Kushniryk. Here are two school and community. We will short excerpts from Brook and miss you! Elaine’s testimonies. Although graduation seems Elaine: “When I was invited like a long time ago, we want to come here, I admit, I cam to acknowledge our grads, so out of curiosity. I wanted to check out the picture and see if know what they were teaching you are related to any of these my girl. At first, I wanted to fine young people. be invisible, and I was scared Karen Peters some of you might accidentally tell outsiders that you’d seen me here. I listened and I cried and I began to study and learn. The more I learned, the more I Participating in a June 27 baptism are Pastor John Reimer, Bob and Ruth wanted to know, and after eight Boyachuk, Connie Reimer, Alicia Gibbings, Brook Burick, and Elaine months I admitted to myself Kushniryk. that Jesus was who He said He was.” Brook: “I don’t remember a time when I have ever been far away from the Lord. I thank God that I have been raised in a Christian home and school. I thank God also for the church that I go to and all of the Christian influences in my life. I feel that God has changed me and strengthened me in many ways. I’m getting baptized because I want to follow the Lord’s example and be obedient to Him. I am also doing this because I want to become closer and have a better relationship with Jesus. After a relatively cool summer, we have appreciated the warmth of the fall sunshine and the beauty of the season. In Swan River we have our own Pike’s Peak. Many people hike up the “mountain” to CBFCS grads: (back) Ryan Barnett, Nathan Buhler, Aaron Reimer, (middle) Willie Pot, Scott Warkentin, view our scenic valley during this time. (front) Val Cluney, Kristen Cleaver, and Veronica Cluney. Our family day camp at Madge Lake was on September 5. We enjoyed a warm day and activities to help us get to know each other in a relaxed setting. September is also the time when life gets back to normal at CBF church. Many Sundays in summer we look around and wonder where everyone has gone to, but September comes and people return to the fold. CBF Christian School has had a great start and we are thankful that our pastor’s wife, Connie Reimer, has continued as principal. We clearly see the Lord guiding and smoothing out the paths before us and we are thankful that we have this awesome facility in Swan River. Of course, we’ve said our goodbyes to some dear people; the Pot family moved

THE MESSENGER

Missions conference at PV Pleasant Valley (Rosenort, Man.): Our annual missions conference was held October 29 to 31. There were many short-term mission trips this past year. They were challenging and rewarding times, according to reports during the weekend. Marc and Amy Loewen went to help Marc’s brother and sister-in-law, Carl and Lisa Loewen, missionaries in the Philippines. Their four-month stay was under ACTION. Donevon, Kerry and Barb Brandt attended a YWAM seminar in Bosnia. Barb regretted not having time to visit orphanages in that region. Blaine Dueck went with Project Macedonia in Belize for four weeks. It was hot and humid, he said, but the preaching opportunities he experienced were even more memorable. Angelica Loewen got into music ministry with One Accord. With songs and testimonies, they visited places in Germany and Switzerland; she also managed a trip to England. Kim Siemens presented a report on VBS, always a highlight of the summer. She told of the increasing attendance and of response to the gospel. Living Fountain Camp always involves a great number of our people, staff and campers. Earl Loewen was excited to see how God supplies staff as needed each summer. Stephanie Friesen has taken a teaching position for a year near London, England. Her mom Rhonda visited her in October and was assured that her daughter was managing very well. Together they acted as tourists in their spare time. A couple spoke in Sunday school and morning service about their time in Edmonton, Alta., with Arab World Ministries. The man is now serving as a volunteer at the Mennonite Centre for Newcomers and NorQuest College, teaching English to speakers of other languages. On Sunday, October 31, there was a fellowship lunch. Later that afternoon, the report from Marc and Amy Loewen emphasized many points that would help Pastor Darren Plett and family. They would leave in a week for short-term service in the Philippines. Nathan Dueck gave three weeks of his summer time to counsel at Beaver Creek Bible Camp. He did not bring a report, but his efforts are worth mentioning. Elly Rempel

December 22, 2004

On October 16, Jac and Tina Siemens celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary with supper at the Heritage Centre with their six children: Marilyn (Leo) Kornelsen, Glen (Irene); Jerry (Helen); Pete (Ang); Val (Jerry) Kroeker; and Eldon (Lynda) and their families. Later, the Eidsee family was invited to join them for a program, ice cream and cake. Forty-six people attended.

People leave, but only for the right reasons! Braeside (Winnipeg, Man.): A number of people have left Braeside in the past few months—but all for the right reasons! Arnold and Tina Thiessen left for a two-year term as hosts of the El Paso guesthouse; visitors are always welcome. In late summer, Gordon and Anita Kroeker returned to MCC headquarters in Akron, Pennsylvania, for a second term of voluntary service. Their task is to pack hundreds of boxes of handicrafts to be sold in Ten Thousand Villages stores. Adolf Dueck, too, volunteered with MCC—he began a two-year term working in a drug rehabilitation centre near Cuauhtemoc, Mexico. The centre’s purpose is to help men overcome substance abuse habits. Lastly, in October, we bid farewell to Hernan, Landis, Monica and Giovanni Benitez. They are now in Paraguay (acclimatizing to plus-30 degree summer temperatures) to help in church planting. Their absence from Braeside opens the door for a new Spanish pastor; a search committee has already made some contacts. A casual observer of Braeside would have been surprised to see grandparents, parents and children leaving the church carrying baby bottles. The bottles were part of a Crisis Pregnancy Centre fundraiser. A few weeks later the bottles returned, ﬁlled to the brim with coins of all denominations. The donations were used to supply baby formula and diapers for moms and their wee ones.

The week after Thanksgiving we had a Turkey Extravangza Potluck. The meal enabled us to kill three birds with one stone: leftover turkey was consumed, it reduced by one the number of meals someone had to prepare and we enjoyed the fellowship. After the meal Cam and Corrina Kroeker reported on their MCC-related work with individuals who have moved from the former Soviet Union to their homeland in the former East Germany. Cam, Corrina and daughter Angela have resettled in Winnipeg. Al Dueck

Farewell, Benitez family! We joyfully celebrated the acceptance and baptism of new members, but with some sadness bid farewell to Landis, Hernan, Monica and Giovanni. Our thoughts and prayers go with them to Paraguay.

shoulder tapping Mennville EMC, a rural church near Riverton, Man., seeks a half-time youth leader/pastor to give spiritual leadership and be a program director for a youth group of approximately 25 to 30. Call for information or send resume to Kenton Barkman, Box 576, Riverton, MB R0C 2R0. Phone 204-378-5623 or e-mail kenton@mts.net. The Archives Committee, under the EMC Board of Church Ministries, seeks a part-time volunteer archivist to work out of the Steinbach, Man., office. Tasks involve the organizing, filing and tracking of historical materials within the vault and overflow areas in the building. Assets are an interest in history and a skill or willingness to operate a computer database; an exceptional asset would be the ability to read German. For information, contact executive secretary Terry Smith at 204326-6401 or emcmessenger@mts.net. MDS workers are needed! Canadian volunteers, remember to connect with the MDS office in Winnipeg prior to making service arrangements directly with an MDS project. This will ensure that you receive a border crossing letter, travel assistance/receipting details and other important MDS information. Extension office: 866-261-1274. Braeside EMC in Winnipeg, Man., is seeking a fulltime associate pastor of Spanish ministries. The applicant should be familiar with the Anabaptist perspective and willing to be guided by the EMC statement of faith. Responsibilities to include: pastoral care, teaching, and outreach. The Spanish part of the Braeside congregation has an average attendance of 60 people. Please forward your resume and references to Braeside Evangelical Mennonite Church, Attn: Spanish Ministry Search Committee, 1011 Munroe Ave., Winnipeg, MB R2K 1J7. AIMM International is seeking an executive director for Burkina Faso to work with national and expatriate personnel under the direction of the Burkina Faso Partnership Council. This position is part-time administration and could also include part-time financial manager as well as other ministries to provide a full-time role. Please request application information from Len Barkman, 440 Main Street, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5. E-mail: emclen@mts.net. Head cook sought for year-round employment at Red Rock Bible Camp in southeast Manitoba. Must work well with people, be service oriented, be a team player, agree with the camp’s mission and statement of faith, and have experience and training in the food service industry or be willing to be trained. Cook is responsible to the food services director. Housing, partial board, salary, medical and dental benefits provided. Send resume to RRBC, 204-320 Main St., Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z1; Email:kim@redrockbiblecamp.com. La Crete Christian Fellowship seeks a fulltime youth pastor, an energetic leader with

vision who has a geniune love and passion to reach out to young people and the ability to be a partner with us to build a strong ministry with the young people in our congregation and community. Join dedicated parents and adults eager to be led and students ready to grow and learn. This person will work primarily with high school and junior youth, and also with children’s ministry. We’re eager to incorporate new ideas and capitalize on the gifts and talents of our youth pastor. This person should have some understanding and respect for EMC theology, diversity, and traditions. There is a generous salary, health insurance, and a new house to live in. La Crete is located in beautiful northern Alberta, eight hours north of Edmonton. To ﬁnd out more about La Crete and the church, see www.lacretechamber.com; www.telusplanet. net/public/lccfc; e-mail: lccfc@telus.net or lfem@telus.net; phone: Frank Winsor at LCCF, 780-928-3783. EMC Board of Missions seeks a pastor for Hillside Gospel Church in Chihuahua, Mexico for spring 2005. Attendance averages 80 on Sunday mornings. The applicant should be conversant in Low German and have gifts to help the congregation to develop local leadership and organizationally. A two- to three-year commitment is preferred, but a shorter term can be arranged. Contact Lester Olfert, Foreign Secretary, EMC Board of Missions, phone: 204-326-6401, fax: 204-326-1613, e-mail: lolfert@mts.net. Altona EMMC, a congregation of 650 people, seeks a full-time pastor of youth and education. This individual is responsible to set direction and vision for the youth programs, and to serve in education. Submit resume and applications or questions to Karl Dreger, Altona EMMC, Box 907, Altona, MB R0G 0B0; e-mail: karldreger@hotmail.com; phone: 204324-8223.

Executive foreign secretary for the EMC Board of Missions. Responsibilities: Administration, visiting Latin American mission ﬁelds, recruitment, promoting EMC missions, and reporting to the board. Qualiﬁcations that are important considerations: A ministry degree, a working knowledge of Spanish, and missions/ ministry experience. Some training may be provided. Starting date: Mid-2005 (negotiable). Send inquiries and resumes to: Chairman, EMC Board of Missions, 440 Main St., Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5, or e-mail: ernieloewen@yahoo.com.

weddings FRIESEN – LOEWEN: Peter, son of John and Maria Friesen of Morris, Man., and Rhonda, daughter of Ed and Margaret Loewen of Rosenort, Man., were married on May 15, 2004, at Pleasant Valley EMC with Darren Plett of Rosenort officiating. The couple lives in Morris. WOLFE – BUERMEYER: Jeremy, son of Cornelius and Anne Wolfe of Gladstone, Man., and Adriane, daughter of John and Irmgarde Buermeyer of Neepawa, Man., were married on July 3, 2004, at Neepawa First Baptist with Randy Fehr of Neepawa officiating. The couple lives in Rosenort, Man. EIDSE – RANCE: Keith, son of Rob and Diane Eidse of Rosenort, Man., and Stacey, daughter of Keith and Lynn Rance of Rosenort, were married on July 17, 2004, at Pleasant Valley EMC with Darren Plett of Rosenort officiating. The couple lives in Winnipeg, Man. SAWATZKY – MARTIN: Corey, son of Don and Joyce Sawatzky of Winkler, Man., and Angie, daughter of Harold and Joyce Martin of Anola, Man., were married on August 28, 2004, at Anola Fellowship Chapel with Edgar Unrau of Winnipeg, Man., officiating. The couple lives in Winnipeg. WALL – THIESSEN: Steve, son of John and Lorna Wall of Vienna, Ont., and Debbie, daughter of Abe and Margaret Thiessen of Aylmer, Ont., were married on September 4, 2004, in St. Thomas, Ont., with John Wall of Vienna officiating. The couple lives in Chihuahua, Mexico. JANZEN – GINGERICH: Mike Janzen and Jodi Gingerich were married on September 11, 2004, in Landmark, Man. The couple lives in Toronto, Ont. ENNS – LOEWEN: John Enns and Rose Loewen were married on October 2, 2004, at Mount Salem EMC with Dave Wiebe officiating. The couple lives in Aylmer, Ont. CORNELSEN – WALL: Curtis, son of Cam and Pam Cornelsen of Rosenort, Man., and Tamara, daughter of Laverne and Shirley Wall of Steinbach, Man., were married on October 3, 2004, at Rosenort Fellowship Chapel with Harry Friesen of Steinbach officiating. The couple lives in Winnipeg, Man. KLASSEN – BRANDT: Ferd Klassen and Carisa, daughter of Harry and Audrey Brandt of Rosenort, Man., were married on October 15, 2004, at Rosenort Fellowship Chapel with John Driedger of Rosenort officiating. The couple lives in Niverville, Man. MARIN – PENNER: Martin Joseph Noel, son of Marcel and Odile Marin of Haywood, Man., and Phyllis Irene, daughter of George and Mary Penner of Roseisle, Man., were married on October 23, 2004, at Glencross EMM Church with Hans VanRinsbergen officiating The couple lives in Roland, Man.

THE MESSENGER

2004 messenger index ARCHIVIST’S ALCOVE Good response! The archives needs you Thanks, Loren Koehler!

Feb. 25 May 5 July 14

ARTICLES Got Religion? Not Enough! Gord Penner Jan. 14 Special Prayer Report on Democratic Republic of Congo, WBT with Beth Koehler Jan. 28 Can the poor save us? Kent Dueck Feb. 11 Our eyes should have it, Cole Clifford Feb. 25 More guts than waving a palm branch, Mo Friesen Mar. 10 A Mozambican refugee story, Menno Plett Mar. 10 Low German Bible project completed Mar. 10 Our Risen Christ, the challenge to dead-end logic, Terry M. Smith Mar. 24 The Gift of Love, John Schlamp Apr. 7 Temporary or eternal: What was I thinking? Lincoln Vellacott Apr. 7 Faith in the farm crisis? Dr. Cameron Harder Apr. 21 The Medieval Warrior and the Public Boast, Arley Loewen May 5 Peter and the Public Boast, Arley Loewen May 26 Money and the witness factor, Edwin Friesen May 26 So you want to do a miracle? Ray Plett May 26 Is paying taxes a Christian duty? John Longhurst May 26 Paul and the Christian Boast, Arley Loewen June 9 Grand Rapids: Time to listen to the Native heartbeat? Doris Penner June 9 How captivating is your congregation? Terry M. Smith June 23 Anabaptism and current practices, Terry M. Smith June 23 Kick off those slippers and head for the mountain! Dora Friesen July 14 Evelyn Barkman: Africa still needs many workers! Terry M. Smith July 14 Many needs, challenging ministries in Paraguay, Lester Olfert July 14 An Ode to Walking, without a mention of high gas prices, Layton Friesen Aug. 18 Why should the EMC emphasize church planting in Canada? Trudy Dueck Aug. 18 Youth climb to summit of Pike’s Peak! Gerald D. Reimer Aug. 18 Women seek to touch their world through prayer, Becky Buhler Aug. 18 Reproducing the New Testament Church Through New Church Formation, Peter Dueck Sept. 8 We are Mennonites, Ron Penner Sept. 8 Refusing to Recycle, J. Daryl Byler Sept. 8 Reproducing the New Testament Church Through Church Leadership, Michael Plett Sept. 22 Jesus is driving me crazy! Conroy Koop Oct. 6 What keeps Albert Martens running? Terry M. Smith Oct. 6 A Living Faith in Changing Times, Jack Heppner Oct. 20 Reformation and Biblical Literacy,

December 22, 2004

Dave Reimer Are the heathen still heathen and are they still lost? Terrance L. Tiessen God in the Yukon, Ward Parkinson Why Believe in Peace? John J. Friesen Salt of the Earth: Reﬂections on salt, fertilizer, and same-sex marriage, Tim Rogalsky Mexico urgently needs more workers! Lester Olfert My Christmas Journey, Irene Kroeker Preparing for Royalty, Brad Schneck This Christmas in Bethlehem, Dr. Terry Hiebert

Oct. 20 Nov. 3 Nov. 3 Nov. 17 Dec. 1 Dec. 1 Dec. 1 Dec. 22 Dec. 22

BIRTHS Feb. 11, March 10, April 7, May 5, July 14, Sept. 22, Oct. 6, Nov. 17, Dec. 22 BY THE WAY After the ﬂowers have faded Mar. 10 Anything worth doing is worth doing badly Apr. 7 On celebrating goodness June 9 A cup of coffee and memories of 54 years ago Oct. 6 Tell your stories to the next generation Dec. 1 CELEBRATION! Oct. 20 Let Jesus be exalted! A Living Faith in Changing Times, Jack Heppner SBC and SCHS celebrate Grand Opening Project Macedonia Chortitzer Mennonite Conference Sharing the waves to share the gospel Inter-Mennonite Chaplaincy Association Memo Calendar Evangelical Mennonite Conference Evangelical Anabaptist Seminary Program Evangelical Fellowship of Canada Victor Kliewer appointed to EASP Eden Heath Services Evangelical Mennonite Mission Conference Reformation and Biblical Literacy, Dave Reimer Mennonite Central Committee Mennonite Disaster Service Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission North End Community Church, Winnipeg Steinreich Bible School, Mexico 25th anniversary at High Level Guelaguetza and God’s grace Far East Russia Report Canadian Council of Christian Charities Mennonite Foundation of Canada SBC Leadership Conference Worth, Debra Fehr (poem) Derksen Printers With Openness and Respect, Edwin Friesen Tri-Conference 1994 CHURCH NEWS Abbeydale Feb. 25, May 5, May 26, June 23, Sept. 22, Nov. 17 Aberdeen Mar. 10 Anola Jan. 28, Nov. 3 Buffalo-Head Prairie Feb. 25, Apr. 21, Aug. 18 Braeside Mar. 10, June 23, Dec. 1, Dec. 22 Creighton Nov. 17 Crestview Apr. 7, July 14, Nov. 3

Fort Frances Jan. 28, Apr. 7, June 23, Dec. 22 Fish Creek Nov. 3 Fort Garry Feb. 25 Grande Prairie Feb. 25, Oct. 6 High Level Jan. 14, Apr. 7, July 14, Oct. 20 Hudson Bay June 9 Kleefeld Jan. 28, Sept. 8, Dec. 1 Kola Sept. 8 La Crete Apr. 21, July 14 Leamington Apr. 21, Sept. 22 Lorette Feb. 11, July 14, Oct. 6, Dec. 1 MacGregor Sept. 8 Morris May 26, Nov. 17 Morweena Apr. 21, May 5 Mount Salem Mar. 10, May 26, Sept. 8 Pansy Nov. 17 Pelly Jan. 14, Apr. 21, May 5, Nov. 3 Pleasant Valley Jan. 28, June 23, Nov. 17, Dec. 22 Portage Apr. 7 Ridgewood July 14 Riverton Mar. 10 Roseisle Feb. 11, Apr. 21, May 5, Sept. 8 Rosenort Jan. 14, June 23, Nov. 17 Rosenort Fellowship Jan. 28, Feb. 11 St. Vital Feb. 11, May 5, July 14, Aug. 18 Steinbach Jan. 14, Feb. 11, Mar. 24, Sept. 8, Sept. 22, Nov. 17 Steinbach EFC Feb. 11, July 14, Sept. 22 Stony Brook Oct. 6 Straffordville Feb. 11, May 5, Oct. 6 Swan River Feb. 11, Feb. 25, June 9, Dec. 22 Tilbury Jan. 14, June 23, Dec. 1 Treesbank Mar. 10, Nov. 3 Wymark May 5 CHURCH PROFILE Fish Creek (Calgary) EDITORIALS Why am I a Christian? A second case of BSE Sing no sad songs for me? Calling imperfect people as pastors Beware a vague spirituality! The Christian need of togetherness Keeping a paper trail How has the role changed? Don’t miss the point! How many languages does your church use? More foster parents are needed! More churches are needed this year Numbers don’t matter? Knowing God and social justice Messiah and Jewish people Evangelicalism and Discrimination Spiritual hunger and a moving target Don’t blame Arden Thiessen! Who possesses you? 60 years and more steps The patience of Christ The public use of Scripture Women need more say in conference decisions A private faith is a public loss Passions and the Church’s mission Canada’s farmers feel forgotten Members, adherents, and covenant On starts, stalls, and stops

Nov. 3 Jan. 14 Jan. 14 Jan. 28 Jan. 28 Feb. 11 Feb. 11 Feb. 25 Feb. 25 Mar. 10 Mar. 10 Mar. 24 Apr. 7 Apr. 7 Apr. 21 Apr. 21 May 5 May 5 May 26 May 26 June 9 June 9 June 23 June 23 July 14 July 14 Aug. 18 Aug. 18 Sept. 8

Canada should opt out of BMD program Sept. 8 The grace to move past our failures Sept. 22 Learning from Ten Lost Years Sept. 22 Urgent needs and spiritual tourism Oct. 6 The Army and the Navy Oct. 6 Let Jesus be exalted! Oct. 20 Douglas Robert Smith Nov. 3 Moving toward faithful changes Nov. 3 What are your representatives doing? Nov. 17 Hockey players, members of parliament, and fair play Nov. 17 Elvis Presley and you Dec. 1 Getting rid of the laybel Dec. 1 The good news of Jesus Dec. 22 World AIDS Day Dec. 22 FAITH IN ACTION/SOCIAL CONCERNS COMMITTEE Essay contest ad Jan. 14 The church’s response to suicide, Irma Janzen Mar. 10 Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder and the Church, Irma Janzen Apr. 7 Rebuilding the credibility of the Christian Church, Terry M. Smith, Mildred Pashe Apr. 21 Reﬂecting on poverty and wealth, Wally Doerksen May 26 Does the Christian have a responsibility to the poor? Doris Penner Nov. 17 GENERATIONS Youth are leading the way toward 2010! EMC youth ministry is culturally relevant!

May 26 June 9

IN MEMORIAM Aganetha (Nettie) Fast, Jan. 5, 2003 Susie Eidse, Jan. 15, 2003 Katie Janzen Harms, Jan. 28, 1979 Henry Plett, 1957–2003 Georgina Friesen, 1933–2003 Lydia Foster Harold Plett Aug. 26, 2003

Jan. 14 Jan. 28 Feb. 11 Feb. 25 March 10 May 5 Sept. 8

KIDS’ CORNER Answers to Nov. 19 crossword A Puzzle and an Experiment You are Like a Penguin! Days of the Snowman The Story of Three Trees Choose your heroes carefully A Very Wise King Let the games begin! The Boulder Which Freedoms do you enjoy most?

Jan. 14 Jan. 28 Feb. 25 Mar. 24 Apr. 21 May 26 June 23 Aug. 18 Sept. 22 Nov. 17

LETTERS Goodbye, Arden Church! Sheila Rempel Care for the pastor’s husband, Brad Nance Thanks, Gord! Martha Doerksen Our riches, a caution from a senior, Peter B. Dueck Talked needed about depression and suicide, Hilda Loewen An accurate depiction of Christ’s suffering? Mary Reimer Taxes withheld to protest war, Elizabeth Plett Scripture and Iraq, Wayne Penner EMC convention: free childcare and much more, Stephanie Unger

Jan. 28 Feb. 25 Mar. 24 May 26 June 9 June 9 Aug. 18 Aug. 18 Aug. 18

Whatever happened to holiness? Glenn Loewen Loewen letter appreciated, Margaret Friesen ‘All the red lights went on,’ David Schmidt Thanks for Celebration! Robert Veitch Moderator commended for Missile Defence letter, Bill Janzen

Dec. 22

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ANALYSIS The Passion of the Christ, Doris Penner

June 23

Sept. 8 Nov. 17 Dec. 1 Dec. 1

MISSIONS Venezuela: Amanda Barkman Jan. 14 Paraguay: Evelyn Rodgers Jan. 28 Paraguay: Evelyn Rodgers Jan. 28 China: names withheld Feb. 11 Afghanistan: names withheld Feb. 11 Paraguay: Why camping in Paraguay? Mar. 24 North Americans seek their place in a new global mission context Mar. 24 Africa: Impact awaits as AIMM changes Apr. 7 Mexico: Sonia Bojorquez de Dyck Apr. 21 Africa: Opportunities abound for ministry in Africa, Leona Schrag May 5 Nicaragua: Don Plett May 5 Mexico: Gladys Terichow May 5 Canada: Albert Martens May 26 Russia: Dave Field May 26 Canada: Doris Penner June 9 Mexico/Texas: Peter Doerksen June 9 Zambia: Karlene Thiessen June 9 Southeast Asia: names withheld June 9 Picture Butte: Trudy Dueck June 9 Peru: Verna Doerksen June 23 Africa: Interview with Evelyn Barkman July 14 Paraguay: Lester Olfert July 14 Mali: Evelyn Barkman July 14 Senegal: AIMM/MMN July 14 Paraguay: Chris Kroeker Sept. 22 Picture Butte: Desiree Krahn Sept. 22 Steinbach: Global Gift Sharing program (photo) Sept. 22 Mongolia: Mongolian Rocks, names withheld Oct. 6 Canada: Interview with Albert Martens Oct. 6 Africa: EMC signs on with ‘new’ AIMM Oct. 6 Canada: Missionaries meet for supper and support Oct. 6 Paraguay: Gerald Reimer Oct. 20 Mexico: Grace Thiessen Oct. 20 Canada (Winnipeg partnership): Len Barkman Oct. 20 Africa (AIMM partnership): Len Barkman Oct. 20 Winnipeg, Man.: Kirsten Sandland Nov. 3 Mexico: Peter and Anne Wiebe Nov. 3 Mexico: Alvira Friesen Nov. 3 Mexico: Lester Olfert Dec. 1 Mexico: Jake and Marie Plett Dec. 22 Philippines: Carl Loewen Dec. 22 NEWS ITEMS EMC church planting gets boost from Dueck Foundation Remaining biblically faithful and socially relevant (ministerial) Council approves budget increase, hears panel Some people could lose their Canadian citizenship

Jan. 14 Jan. 14 Jan. 14 Jan. 14

A half-century on behalf of the poor (MEDA) Blumenort takes second straight EMCup MCC Canada marks 40 th anniversary Mennonites and Catholics study Anabaptist martyrs CFGB grain drive EMC pizza night at SBC MDS helps Louis Creek rebuild Survey identifies 19% as evangelical Volunteers grateful at Open Circle Celebration Storytellers and the coming of post-Vietnam refugees Attendance light at Providence post-secondary meeting All Boards Meeting Valentine’s celebrated at Rest Haven Global gift sharing program meeting Low German Mennonite colonies open drug treatment centre in Mexico, Schellenberg honoured! Youth are leading the way toward 2010! Gerald Reimer FLN launches two new Low German programs Privacy Protection Pledge East Reserve Vital Statistics 1915-1931 2006 Sunday school curriculum will focus on Anabaptist themes EMC Golf Classic Thanks, Loren Koehler! June 30 financial update Mennonites in Ukraine launch union Pray for good weather for crops! Ministerial: Exploring from discipline to discipling Conf. Council: Updates, elections and financial challenges June 30 financial update (clarified) Moderator writes Prime Minister about missile defence program Ordinary people, an extraordinary God (youth leaders’ retreat) MCC receives U of W global citizenship award EMC financial update HIV/AIDS infection rate drops in Uganda CO website receives award OBITUARIES Henry A. Reimer, Oct. 25, 2003 Aganetha (Nettie) Fast, Jan. 5, 2003 Ralph Edward Dueck, Nov. 28, 2003 Johnny D. Loewen, Nov. 16, 2003 Andrew Siemens, Jan. 23, 2003 John K. Fehr, Dec. 4, 2003 Minna Reimer, June 28, 2003 William Peters, July 26, 2003 Margaret Loewen, Dec. 9, 2003 Margaret Brandt Barkman, Oct. 7, 2003 Rose Kornelsen, 1931-2003 Norman James Christmas, Oct. 31, 2003 Agnes Kornelson, Feb. 26, 2004 Jake Giesbrecht, Feb. 15, 2004 Lillian Friesen, March 9, 2004 Elizabeth Penner, Feb. 3, 2004 Andrew P. Plett, Nov. 28, 2003 Esther Kroeker, March 6, 2004 Aganeta (Agnes) Peters, Feb. 20, 2004

Jan. 14 Jan. 28 Jan. 28 Feb. 11 Feb. 25 Feb. 25 Mar. 10 Mar. 10 Mar. 10 Mar. 10 Mar. 24 Mar. 24 Mar. 24 Mar. 24 Mar. 24 Apr. 21 May 26 June 9 June 9 June 23 June 23 July 14 July 14 July 14 July 14 July 14 Aug. 18 Aug. 18 Aug. 18 Nov. 3 Nov. 3 Nov. 17 Nov. 17 Nov. 17 Nov. 17 Jan. 14 Jan. 14 Jan. 28 Jan. 28 Jan. 28 Feb. 11 Feb. 11 Feb. 25 Feb. 25 Feb. 25 Mar. 10 Mar. 24 Apr. 7 Apr. 7 Apr. 7 Apr. 21 Apr. 21 May 5 June 9

THE MESSENGER

Ben B. Dueck, May 9, 2004 George Janzen, May 3, 2004 Aganetha Plett Warkentin, May 14, 2004 Maria (nee Friesen) Peters, April 10, 2004 Susan P. Isaac, April 11, 2004 Peter Klassen, May 6, 2004 Deanna Lynn Friesen, March 12, 2004 Evelyn (Cornelsen) Friesen, July 29, 2004 Thomas Koop, June 12, 2004 Martha Penner, 1922-2004 Henry Bruce (Hank) Mercer, April 21, 2004 Peter B. Dueck, Sept. 2, 2004 Jacob D. Koop, Aug. 24, 2004 Abram A. Redekopp, June 30, 2004 Abram Reimer, Sept. 11, 2004 Margaret Dueck, June 29, 2004 PAGES FROM THE PAST Regions, a proposal that looked to the future Felix Manz, the pain and the reconciliation From Russia, with Love PEOPLE MOVEMENT Annabelle Friesen, BOM Helena Guenther, MCC Harvey Thiessen, BOM

June 9 June 23

SBC Leadership Conference Christmas letter

June 23

SHOULDER TAPPING All issues

June 23 July 14 July 14 Aug. 18 Sept. 8 Sept. 8 Sept. 22 Sept. 22 Oct. 6 Oct. 6 Nov. 3 Nov. 3 Nov. 17

May 5 Aug. 18 Sept. 22 Feb. 25 April 7 April 21

PERSONAL TOUCH First Impressions to Lasting Impressions, Andrew Coates Jan.14 From Brokenness to Service, Menno Plett Feb. 11 I have learned to sit in awe of my Creator, Elaine Enns Mar. 10 A coincidence: Two girls and a wish, Gertrude Friesen Apr. 7 Let me tell you a story, Wes Dueck May 5 Fred Padalec, the ﬁrst man to love me, Linda Erickson June 9 Was it you who prayed so faithfully? Anna Neufeld, Betty Barkman July 14 POEMS They met at the cross, Brigette Toews Feb. 11 The circle of love, Gord Friesen Mar. 10 The Passover Lamb, Brigette Toews Mar. 24 Packing up my sins, Laura Plett Siemens May 26 Daddy, Take a Little Time, John Stoesz May 26 Lord, help! Laura Plett Siemens Sept. 22 Worth, Debra Fehr Oct. 20 REGIONAL EVENTS Region 6 Region 1 STEINBACH BIBLE COLLEGE SBC to host simulcast seminar SBC graduates 27 Imagine Tomorrow Campaign Update SBC publishes its 7th Bible Study guide (ad) Contributions and pledges are welcome Imagine Tomorrow (photo and caption) SBC and SCHS celebrate Grand Opening

December 22, 2004

May 26 Oct. 6 Apr. 7 May 26 June 23 Aug. 18 Aug. 18 Sept. 8 Oct. 20

Oct. 20 Dec. 1

FEHR – to Abe and Susy Fehr of Taber, Alta., a son, Clayton Conroy, on November 13, 2003.

STEWARDSHIP TODAY Been told to ‘act your wage’ lately? God ﬁrst Time to plan your giving? Money and the covenant community Money and the witness factor Receiving graciously Taxing as Tithing? C’mon! Who is the ﬁnancial gatekeeper? With openness and respect For couples only

Jan. 12 Feb. 25 Mar. 24 Apr. 21 May 26 July 14 Aug. 18 Oct. 6 Oct. 20 Dec. 1

WEDDINGS Feb. 11, March 10, April 7, May 5, July 14, Sept. 22, Oct. 6, Nov. 17, Dec. 22 WINDOW ON MISSIONS Mexico, the forgotten mission ﬁeld! 61, but the needs remain Younger leaders, the future is yours! Gifts from Africa AIMM: a new chapter in EMC’s history They also serve who hold the bags Don’t miss the point! The emerging Mennonite church in Burkina Faso A WOMAN’S JOURNEY OF FAITH A weekly day off, a short-lived quiet Vera Betsy Eva Kim: more love to give Minnie Connie: We had to be there for our son At Petra and facing fear Christmas Eve with Joseph and Mary

births

Feb. 25 Mar. 10 Mar. 24 Mar. 24 Apr. 21 May 5 June 9 Dec. 22 Jan. 28 Feb. 25 Mar. 24 Apr. 21 June 23 Aug. 18 Sept. 22 Nov. 17 Dec. 1

WRITINGS SHARED The dogmatic imagination, A. James Reimer Anabaptist-Mennonite Confessions of Faith: The Development of a Tradition, Karl Koop Micah: A Father Survives the Suicide of His Son, Claude Tremblay

Feb. 25 Sept. 8 Nov. 17

EMC Women’s Hockey Tournament January 22, 2005 Rosenort (Man.) arena Fans are welcome!

FEHR – to Peter and Susie Fehr of Taber, Alta., a daughter, Mackenzie Leanne, on January 26, 2004. SANDERSON – to Tim and Tammy Sanderson of Aubigny, Man., a daughter, Rayna Shaelyn, on January 27, 2004. SELLEY – to Troy and CoraLee Selley of Rosenort, Man., a son, Owen William, on January 29, 2004. KLASSEN – to Henry and Anna Klassen of Taber, Alta., a son, Nolan Austin, on February 21, 2004. TOEWS – to Alex and Andrea Toews of Rosenort, Man., a son, Zander Phoenix, on April 12, 2004. WIEBE – to Henry and Sarah Wiebe of Grassy Lake, Alta., a daughter, Emily Alexandra, on May 9, 2004. DYCK – to Ben and Tina Dyck of Taber, Alta., a daughter, Janae Isabelle, on May 15, 2004. MARTENS – to Willy and Linda Martens of Vauxhall, Alta., a daughter, Adelina, on June 17, 2004. PENNER – to Ryan and Marissa Penner of Steinbach, Man., a daughter, Avery Elizabeth, on July 20, 2004. KRUSE – to Rolf and Angela Kruse, EMC missionaries in Asossa, Ethiopia, a son, Joel Cornelius, on July 23, 2004. NEUFELD – to John and Helen Neufeld of Tilbury, Ont., a son, Malachi Joel, on July 28, 2004. FRIESEN – to Brent and Terrilee Friesen of Rosenort, Man., a son, Emery Randall, on August 4, 2004. GIESBRECHT – to Johnny and Eva Giesbrecht of Taber, Alta., a son, Kevin Brady, on August 13, 2004. KLASSEN – to John and Eva Klassen, a daughter, Melonie Grace, on August 24, 2004.

coming events January 9 Your congregation 204-326-6401 March 19–21, 2005 EMC Ministerial Retreat Speaker: Dave Reimer of Winnipeg, Man. Wilderness Edge Retreat Centre Pinawa, Manitoba 204-326-6401 May 20–23 Abundant Springs Caronport, Saskatchewan 204-326-6401 July 1–3, 2005 2005 EMC Convention Speaker Rod Masterson Finding Calm in Chaos Peace River Bible Institute Sexsmith, Alberta 204-326-6401

The Philippines

A Prodigal Son

My dreams are to finish the nine-month course od has blessed us in tremendous ways at Honest here at Honest Hands, and also go back to school. Hands. The home is full of young men from the The tutorial program is kind of hard for me, but with street and squatter communities. A garden the students planted is full of healthy squash, carrots, and the help of God I can do it. Sometimes there are disagreements between students, but mostly we get other Filipino vegetables. along with each other. Students are growing as well through God’s help I am now going regularly to the Day and the good example of the staff. Staff by Day church on weekends. I wasn’t are using the Purpose Driven riven Life in Tagalog for a daily small group time going before, but because Honest which the students are enjoying. Hands wanted me to go, I went. Students go home on We helped at a street weekends to their sponsoring kids’ camp last week, and I churches, and are starting really enjoyed myself and to feel like they are part found some new friends. of their churches. They I learned how to take care of kids; I became are a good group of guys like their big brother. with lots of enthusiasm I taught the kids, led and energy. They aren’t the Bible study, and perfect, of course, helped them get up in but their hearts are the morning. I was the teachable, and they are growing into godly leader, which made young men who listen me very happy. The kids respected me, to the God and obey. especially after I told One young man from Helping Hands tells a bit them about what my life of his story: I have five was like on the street siblings. My mother died before. God is helping me to become new. He is my when I was young. My dad Saviour and my God. is a carpenter, but he doesn’t Some of my prayer have much work now. I was on requests are for my parents and the streets for two years hanging The Prodigal Son in the Arms of His Father for the future of my family. My out with my friends, getting into by Gustave Doré, The Doré Bible Illustrations brothers and sisters need to study trouble. I stole things and used drugs. well and do well at school. But when I got to know Jesus I became My favorite verse is Psalm 27:10: “Though my new, and got rid of the rugby [solvent glue father and mother forsake me, the LORD will receive me.” used for sniffing]. God helped me come to Honest Hands, and I praise Carl Loewen Him for answering my prayers. I am new now! I am not Carl Loewen using drugs anymore, and I am obeying my parents. My (Pleasant Valley) favorite part at Honest Hands is studying the Bible, any directs Helping part, just as long as it is from the Bible. We studied the Hands, a discipleship story Jesus told about the Prodigal Son. The effect of ministry to street this story was very good! I changed. children under So after spending one week at Honest Hands I finally ACTI0N. He lives returned home to see my dad. I hadn’t been home for in the Philippines two years! My dad is happy with me now, because I am with his wife LIsa studying the Bible. Sometimes I tell my dad what I am and children Jacob, learning. He is glad because it is good what I am doing Samuel and Isaiah. here—I am doing it for God.

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