Christ was not forsaken!
The
Messenger EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE VOLUME 43 NUMBER 6 MARCH 23, 2005
The
editorials
Messenger EDITOR Terry M. Smith
Mexico and Native ministry in Canada
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WO overlooked areas of need are and a greater awareness of social needs. Mexico and Native ministry in Simple assimilation was never an option. Canada. The Christian Church has been Both involvements date back to about humbled, forced to regain credibility the 1950s, and our results in many circles (Phil. have been modest. This 2:4–11). The Church Part of our is a time for assessment has much to learn in challenge is to and renewed efforts. order to develop a larger respond well If serving in Mexico indigenous Christian has lost its romantic community in Canada. to social and haze, that’s no reflection Part of our challenge political changes in is to respond well, rather on its needs: 120 million people, 31 states, and than to react, to social addressing wider our mission work mostly needs of Native and political changes in confined to one northern addressing wider needs communities. state. We have fewer of Native communities. workers now than years Otherwise, most EMCers ago and some “sent ones” retire this year. by convenient default will continue Beyond tourism, what do you see in to benefit from a power imbalance. Mexico? Workers are urgently needed This hurts the Church’s credibility, in both Spanish- and German-speaking overshadows the message we share, and areas; this needs to be stated as strongly limits the message itself. But the Church as diplomatic EMC tones permit. can learn and grow. Native ministry is changing in Canada. Who are willing to be “sent” with the T We live in a post-colonial, post-residential message of Christ? M school age, with growing Native activism, Terry M. Smith
Another blow to the farming sector
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N MARCH 7, the U.S. border did not open to live Canadian beef, and the agricultural sector has been dealt another setback. On March 9, farmers protested at the Ontario legislature. Governments are starting to put in money to find other markets; this is a good development. To expand our markets in other countries, Canada will likely have to test more animals for BSE than many of our farmers or scientists might see as necessary—but that’s the price of public relations. Many farmers talk of the need for greater Canadian slaughter capacity. Canada needs more slaughter-houses. How can governments find money to attract or retain large business interests, while slaughter plants are seemingly considered a lower priority? By depending on court and political processes that we don’t control, Canada 2
has been seriously affected. It’s nearly two years since the first case of BSE was detected. Is that longer than it takes for a slaughterhouse to be erected and begin running? The hurt in the farming sector affects us in a basic way. If Canada was forced to provide all of its own food, how productive and profitable would we want our farms to be? The latest setback will cause some farm families to quit beef or sheep farming; others will quit farming (in an already shrinking sector). In a farming culture where independence and toughing it out are valued, it’s difficult for rural families to reach out for emotional support. They need to be publicly and privately in our prayers. Churches—their churches—need to give them opportunity to voice their pain and to feel supported. They need not struggle alone, but that’s T easy to say. M Terry M. Smith
ASSISTANT EDITOR Rebecca Buhler THE MESSENGER is the publication 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. 8 – April 20 (copy due April 8)
THE MESSENGER
letters
coming events
Issues and people, or sex and friends I appreciate that as editor you have to make choices. Also the choices you make will not always be ones that I, or anyone else for that matter, would make. Goodness only knows how often I would reverse my actions if I could. Nevertheless, I think it is worth stating my opinion on a recent article about our Aberdeen church (Feb. 9, 2005). I note that the headline and the picture have no immediate relationship. One needs to read to the very last paragraph to find out what the picture represents. I understand that this article is in fact a combination of two reports done separately. If I had my choice about that combination I think the headline should
have read perhaps Aberdeen’s Newest Members, and then should have talked about those people. If one of those two articles was to receive only cursory mention it should have been the “issues” article. I hope that in my more sane moments at least, I remember that no matter what the latest sex craze is (divorce and remarriage, sex outside of marriage, or same-sex unions), people are always more important than my own or anybody else’s view of a particular issue or interpretation of the biblical message. Kathy Schlamp Winnipeg, Man.
people movement
April 2 Mental Health Retreat God Is Not Silent St. Benedicts Centre North of Winnipeg, Man. 204-261-6381 April 2 MDS Spring Banquet Prairie Rose EMC Landmark, Man. reporting, updates, music 866-261-1274 April 15 Eden Foundation Celebrating a Journey in Song Bergthaler Mennonite Church Winkler, Man. 204-325-5355 April 16 Eden Foundation Celebrating a Journey in Song First Mennonite Church Winnipeg, Man. 204-325-5355 May 20–23 Abundant Springs 2005 Cascade Caronport, Sask. 204-326-6401 July 1–3 2005 EMC Convention Speaker Rod Masterson Finding Calm in Chaos Peace River Bible Institute Sexsmith, Alta. 204-326-6401
Martha Ras (Abbeydale) renewed a twoyear assignment with MCC as thrift store manager in Calgary, Alta.
Leon Janzen (Aberdeen) is serving with MCC as a web editor in Winnipeg, Man.
Volunteer for a workteam! May 26–June 10
Caaguazu, Paraguay Training Centre construction Roof and ceiling, electrical Individual cost: About $2,100 (includes airfare from Winnipeg)
Eva Unrau (Leamington) is on a two-year MCC assignment as a receptionist in Ontario.
March 23, 2005
For applications or information contact: Lester Olfert EM Conference office 204-326-6401 lolfert@mts.net emconf@mts.net
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We are not forsaken in
our suffering! Pastor Tom Warner
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Y WIFE Andrea and I originate from southern Ontario. We both have fond memories of warm winters and long hot summers, but the season that has most meaning for both of us is autumn. This is the time of year when we first dated and began to love each other. Coming from this part of the country means we enjoyed the great tall sugar maple trees. We have walked through many piles of large red and orange maple leaves and reveled in the aroma of the bush they grew in. It is a tree that was used, not for such beautiful purposes as we have in our memories, but to crucify our Lord Jesus. I wonder what memory that tree has for Him.
Did God turn His back on Jesus at the cross? If so, that’s not very encouraging for us when we struggle. 4
Joy brought Jesus to the cross We can gather some insight to our Lord from Hebrews 12:2: “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Imagine having joy in such horrible circumstances of death and suffering! My wife and I have such good memories for reasons of love and a new life together. Did Jesus see love and new life from His view on the tree from which He hung? Was that why He had joy? This joy brought Him to the cross to die and through the cross to live again beyond it. How precious this cross for us who love the Lord! Like Jesus, we look beyond our circumstances of pain and seek to see the outcome with joy. This is not always easy while we are in the suffering; it takes faith and vision in the darkness. Jesus could not find His Father while suffering. His words were, “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” (Mark 15:34). This is the only occasion where Jesus addresses His Father as God. Truly the suffering blinded Him to His Father’s presence! But had His Father left Him, as some have taught in the past? Did He turn His back on His only Son? If so, that’s not very encouraging for us when we struggle. Not too very long after, while yet on the cross, Jesus said, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit” (Luke 23:46). The Father did not turn His back on Jesus, nor forsake Him; He was there all along. Jesus’ suffering blinded Him to seeing His Father. While our suffering will often prevent us from finding our Heavenly Father, that does not mean He is gone. He does not THE MESSENGER
turn His back on us when we suffer. Jesus found Him in His suffering and so can we. When did Jesus make this turn from not seeing His Father to knowing He was there? Was this after He saw the joy of the cross? Did the joy of the cross help Jesus remember why He was being crucified? I cannot say for sure; I can only wonder. But I can say that when I look beyond my current circumstances to the joy in them, because Jesus is in them with me, then I will ride out the suffering and will see the face of my Heavenly Father. Finding joy in trials Is this what James 1:2 is trying to tell us? “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds.” The joy is not in the actual trials, but in what they are capable of producing in us for the glory of God. To take joy in the trial itself is a form of mental illness. It is the outcome beyond the trial that is joyful. Further on we read the outcome of trials and the reason we are to count them as pure joy. James 1:12 says, “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” The joy of a crown is ours when we embrace trials from the Lord as leading us to pure joy. The pure joy? A crown of life? Why? Because we love Him. How then do we turn trials into joy? This comes from a life lesson I learned some time ago. Many years ago I learned what 1 Thesselonians 5:18 means. I am to “give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” We are not to give thanks for the tough circumstances or the evil attacks; but, rather, we are to give thanks in these circumstances. Why? When we say thank you to God in the middle of horrific circumstances, we are simply saying to God that we trust Him. I say thank you to the Lord not because it is easy or pleasant, but because He knows what’s going on March 23, 2005
and I trust Him to take me through the circumstance, even if it means death. Obedience to the point of death Consider Jesus again. Philippians 2:8 tells us more about Jesus and the cross: “And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross!” Was there a blind obedience to the Father’s will that also played into His joy? Is not joy the fruit of the Spirit? (Galatians 5:22). Could it be that when we obey the Father’s will, even when it hurts unto death, we have joy? Joy is not happiness, which is based upon happy circumstances. Joy is the fruit of the Spirit. Is it possible for us to enter into such joy in the midst of terrible circumstances? Yes! For sure! No doubt! Why do I say that? By heritage my wife and I are not Mennonites. But as I grew in the Lord and learned what Mennonites have lived and died for, I chose to be a convinced Mennonite. In my opinion, Mennonites have been closer to the way of the Lord than all others. The Word of God, which is the Mennonite’s recipe book for life, teaches us by example and truth that this is so. The question is not, “How can this be?” but rather, “Am I ready to be like Christ?” If so, then get ready for extraordinary living. In that extraordinary living there will be dying as well. It may be in extraordinary ways such as some of our Anabaptists forerunners died. Heroes and martyrs Hebrews 11 is that great chapter of the heroes of our faith. How often we look only at verses 1 to 35a and want that kind of experience! But the last few verses (35b to 38) list the experiences of God’s people, people of whom this world was not worthy (Heb. 11:38). These extraordinary heroes of our faith could be realized as the normal way of Christian faith. We are to be in the world, yet not part of it. In this way we can see the Father’s protecting hand from the evil one (John 17:15–16). This is Easter. It is a good time to look at the joy of suffering for and with the Lord Jesus. Not for our sadistic pleasure but for the Lord’s righteous pleasure.
I say thank you to the Lord because He knows what’s going on and I trust Him to take me through the circumstance, even if it means death. 5
Discovering God’s will When I am willing to say thank you in the middle of suffering, I enter into God’s will (1 Thess. 5:18). We often ask what God’s will is for our lives. A place to begin to discover His will is to say thank you for your life and all that is in it, regardless of what you think is unfair or hard to bear. As I visit with senior saints, the most joyful are those who have learned to obey God’s Word and say thank you in the midst of suffering. These saints have such joy on their pain-filled faces. It is not easy, but Jesus is real in them. They have found the will of God, and this brings great joy to their hearts. The cross is a symbol of joy, the joy of suffering for God and finding Him. This is what it was for Jesus. Should we look at something less than His experience as our guide? It was for joy that Jesus died on the cross for you and me. May we learn to find joy in our suffering as T well—whatever cross we bear! M
Tom Warner has served Steinbach EMC as senior pastor since August 2004. Previously, Tom was pastor of Calvary Mennonite Church (Ayr, Ont.), Calvary Mennonite Church (Monetville, Ont.), Erie View United Mennonite Church (Port Rowan, Ont.), Brussels Mennonite Fellowship (Brussels, Ont.), and Boissevain Mennonite Brethren Church (Boissevain, Man.). He graduated with an M.A. in bibilical counseling from Briercrest Biblical Seminary (Caronport, Sask.). He and his wife Andrea have five grown children and three grandsons. 6
The lack of deep community
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oday, like many days, I am mourning a loss or perhaps mourning an absence. Here is why: Tonight I am in a reflective mood, and with reflection comes renewed passions, and renewed visions, mostly of a deeper life than that which I have. These emotional thoughts need to be shared with someone—someone who won’t just listen, but will feel along, understand, and go even one step further, to deeply feel for me and inspire me to pursue after a deeper and more purposeful life. This “community” is what I deeply need. Man was not meant to live alone. And so the absence is this: Deep community, deep friends, and the deepest of all human communities, marriage. For a second I was going to end this writing with that, but the Deepest of all Beings has also been on my mind very much today. The Deepest of all Beings whom, I honestly and sorrowfully admit, I do not have deep communion with, and that is by far my greatest absence. I know some of the reasons why this absence is: A lack of total pursuit, a lack of deep human community to seek within, a lost knowledge of His love and holiness brought on by questions and doubts. There are probably more that I yet do not yet know of. The last of the three reasons (doubting), I feel, is necessary in this stage of my life, so that I can move from childhood beliefs to deep, well thought-out ones—incredibly difficult, but necessary. The second one (lack of community) I discussed earlier. The first reason, lack of total pursuit, is something that I can change. However, this pursuit is much harder when one is not living in community. And so, tonight, my decision is this: To pursue a deep “community” which will inspire me to seek after God. Dawson Kroeker Riverton, Man. Mennville EMC
THE MESSENGER
a woman s journey of faith Betty Koop
Viola: Worth is not determined by doing
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IOLA LAY on her lounge listening to the birds outside the window. Her Chronic Fatigue symptoms were acting up again and resting quietly sometimes helped control the pain. When the phone rang, she hesitated. Answering it required her to process thoughts quickly and then respond, difficult in these circumstances. But she did pick it up. It was my husband, Glen, phoning from Lesotho, in Africa. The Flying Doctor Service needed a fill-in physician temporarily. Since MAF did the flying for this government program, they had asked Glen to help with recruiting. Glen thought of Vi’s husband, Ron. But since he had an active practice in north-western Ontario, and Vi was not that well, there was little possibility of them coming to Africa. However, he decided to call. It is always good to chat with friends! Vi took down the message and hung up the phone. Then she couldn’t help but laugh. Here she was, flat in bed, and the Great Physician was calling her? “Here am I, Lord, send me,” she repeated with a wry smile. Did God have a sense of humour, or what! She knew her husband would love to go; service was his middle name and this was a great opportunity. To make a long story short, they overcame major roadblocks and did come to Lesotho for nine months. We were thrilled to have our friends join us. We had become good friends some years ago when Glen was pastor of the Aberdeen EM Church in Winnipeg. Ron was doing his internship at the St. Boniface Hospital and they attended our church. Spending time together with our babies in the nursery, and later working together in Cradle Roll helped to deepen our friendship. Here is where I saw how committed Vi was when she saw a need. One of the ladies on her Cradle Roll visit-list had to go in for surgery. She had no family nearby so Vi became a sister to her, plugging in as needed. That was Vi: See a need, fill it! After Ron’s graduation, they and their two young sons, left for a term of overseas service with MCC. Upon their return Ron established his practice in Kenora, Ontario. It was here that Vi became ill with a viral heart infection, followed by Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Treatment for this debilitating disease is limited. In Vi’s case it was accompanied by severe pain and numbing fatigue. It’s a constant fight to get muscles to respond; even eyelids won’t stay open without effort. Our time together in Lesotho was special. We shared meals and other visits, enjoying each other’s company. We even took a ten-day vacation together, enjoying the breath-taking scenery in the Drackensburg region of South Africa. In spite of her fatigue, Vi’s fun-loving nature
March 23, 2005
made the trip one to remember! Vi’s caring went beyond her ‘old’ friends. Her maid became a friend, a helper, rather than a servant. A flight into the mountains with Ron when he went out for clinics was a welcome change. She could sit and sketch: the village people, the surrounding mountains and valleys. Later, she struggled to duplicate the subtle tints of the mountain scenery in her paintings. They returned to Ontario after their brief Africa interlude, back to Ron’s medical practice in Kenora. Vi’s health endured a setback, but they enjoyed their rustic home by the lake, surrounded by forest. She tended her unique garden and continued to create beautiful quilts and hangings. Then, just over two years after their return to Canada, Vi was hit by another tragedy. Ron died suddenly following a massive heart attack. Even with the faithful support of their two sons, physical pain and emotional anguish seemed to become entangled into one huge lump of suffering. We have occasionally visited her in the ensuing years, often amazed at Vi’s seeming ability to handle whatever life throws her way. And yet, she told me, “Fighting pain every day is not pleasant, warm and fuzzy. It’s sharp, pointy, jagged and it doesn’t always make me a nice person. But I go on in spite of it, just as others who fight daily battles, be it with pain or disabilities or grief… Some days are better, some are the pits!” Vi describes the crux of her problem thus: “My worth and reason for living had to change from productive work to watching, waiting, being, enduring.” She finds direction from the 17th century writings of Brother Lawrence when he speaks of practicing the presence of God “at all times—every hour, every minute.” During long periods of enforced rest, the mind can easily wander into negative thoughts. So, she says, “My aim is ‘every minute’… Failing often, [but]‘something about forgetting Him stimulated remembering Him’.” There is a profound lesson here for all of us who claim T to be His followers. M
Fighting pain every day is not pleasant, warm and fuzzy. It’s sharp, pointy, jagged and it doesn’t always make me a nice person. But I go on in spite of it.
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with our missionaries Venezuela
Opportunities: Open doors and hearts A Venezuelan missionary friend shared with me her desire to reach 10,000 Venezuelan children for Christ in the year 2005. She trains leaders and teachers in churches across the country. As part of her 2005 project, her desire was to obtain 4,000 Gospels of John for children desiring to read. I felt burdened to help her get the booklets, but we were shocked to find what this would cost. A few days ago she “just happened to run into” a representative for a group in Caracas who distributes Bible materials free, except for handling and shipping. Many of their funds and materials seem to come from Holland and Northern Ireland. Talk about incredibly good news! I have many friends who are open to hearing about the Lord. The couple I visited yesterday is one example. I took a Venezuelan sister in the Lord with me to help answer their Bible questions. Before we left their house, both husband and wife made a commitment of faith to Jesus Christ. What a beautiful thing to behold! They had only two old chairs and not enough dishes to serve the cake we brought. The house doesn’t even have a door or screen in the windows. But spiritually they are rich today. This country has many poor, hurting, and searching people who are open to love and attention. There are wide open doors on every side, and not just to their houses, but to their hearts as well. Another example is the lady who comes to help me clean the school a few days a week. She and her husband have three children and struggle to make ends
meet. They need the money and I enjoy the help. They live about five to six miles from here, across the river, and through much city traffic. They used to come to work riding double on a little scooter meant for one. They overdid it, wore the little thing out, and were sad about it. He works near here, too, as a guard at an apartment building. His kind of security work earns him pitiful wages; he works 12-hour shifts for six days a week and gets about $170 Canadian a month. Now, he had a chance to buy an older, but bigger scooter for a good price, and because of generous Christmas gifts I was able to help him buy it. The friends I want to see tomorrow live as squatters on some company’s property in literally a tin-can shack. The man works as a poorly paid guard, and the woman can’t have outside jobs because of paralysis in one leg. She goes to a church, and he wants to go to a church (but not that one). Pray that they will decide where to go as a family. Another project of mine is to develop a small Spanish library of devotionals and other good reading materials. Some guards, who protect houses and businesses in our neighborhood, frequently come to my door for water; those on night shift, at times, ask for books to read. What an opportunity! They are not the only ones interested in reading materials. I have already bought a few good booklets and want to buy more. I love to be able to let them borrow good reading materials, including Bible story books for their children. When I had the opportunity to buy a car last year, I was nervous. What if the car needed fixing? What if I had an accident? What about car
Because of your generous Christmas gifts, I was able to purchase a scooter for a couple who needed it. 8
thefts? I have now had the car for a year and the previous owner (my principal) oversees the repairs. Most of my friends do not have cars, and my little buggy comes in handy—a blessing for me and for the many folks who reap the rewards. Thanks a million and more for praying and giving. I trust that this gives you a picture of how welcome your funds and prayers are, and how they will be serving to bless me and my many needy friends. May the Lord recompense you in His own beautiful way. Amanda Barkman
Amanda Barkman (Blumenort EMC) serves in Venezuela as a teacher with New Tribes Mission.
SBC Graduation Weekend April 15-17, 2005
April 15 Spring Concert featuring the SBC Chorale 5:00 pm • Concert Practice Alumni are invited to join the Chorale. A light supper will follow the practice. RSVP to Minna Thiessen 204-326-6451 ext 267 or mthiessen@sbcollege.mb.ca 7:30 pm • Concert April 16 Alumni Brunch 10:30 am • SBC Gym • Tickets $10 Call or E-mail Minna Thiessen Come visit with friends. April 17 Graduation 3:00 pm • Graduation Ceremony at Steinbach EMC • 422 Main Street Speaker: Layton Friesen, SBC Alumnus, Pastor at Fort Garry EMC 50 PTH 12 N • Steinbach, MB R5G 1T4 www.sbcollege.mb.ca
1 column ad - 2 1/4 inches THE MESSENGER
Uganda/Sudan
The cost of ministering cross-culturally We were driving 80 kilometres an hour when we just missed a bike traveling on the trail of a road. The land rover hit a deep hole and the vehicle started to roll. The eight of us in the vehicle had no seat belts on and flew around inside with no protection from crashing pop bottles, luggage and other flying debris. The land rover stopped as we were lying in broken glass, with the roof almost ripped off. Only then did we begin to realize what God had done.
A land rover rolled and was totalled, but passengers were not seriously hurt.
International Teams (IT) has an associate relationship with Evangelical Mennonite Conference. IT sends teams all over the world. Some teams go places that are comfortable and easy to adapt to, but some go to places that are not so comfortable. Northern Uganda and Southern Sudan is one of those areas where it is less comfortable. Sudan is a country which has been ravaged by war for the past 50 years. In the hot season the temperature is 40 plus degrees Celcius; for a Canadian it’s uncomfortable. In November we sent a team there. They saw revival and ministered to thousands of Sudanese. But two of the three team members incurred malaria. We knew that God was doing something, but we were not ready for what we were going to experience. Getting to our ministry location was difficult. We were promised by the airline that we would be rerouted to our destination; instead we were abandoned and delayed three days in Chicago without any luggage. This was only the beginning of our troubles, which lead me to believe that the evil one was at work. There is definitely a cost when we enter the enemy’s territory.
March 23, 2005
When we got to Uganda, only one person’s luggage arrived and it did not have any ministry supplies. The rest of the luggage was only recovered at the end of the trip. In Uganda we were faced with a number of unusual delays and barriers. We were finally able to leave to our next destination, but our ministry was cut short. Though we were able to minister powerfully in this city, when it was time to leave again we faced another barrier: We missed the military convoy to our next destination. As we tried to catch up to this military convoy we had our car accident. The land rover was totaled, but by the hand of God no one was seriously hurt. We were held at a police station for hours because they wanted a bribe. We were stopped by different officers and officials from doing ministry. After the accident our taxi’s tires blew out and we missed some services we had scheduled. Our second land rover literally fell apart: Springs broke, wiring fell apart, and we had steering and battery problems. Our last revival meeting was tainted by tragedy. A mother and two children were shot by a soldier, one revival leader passed away, and another revival leader hung himself because of depression. Many did not attend the meetings because of funerals. God has a plan. Though we were not able to see it all unfold, we saw Him work. Our Muslim driver came to Christ, at the prompting of our German brother. Every time the vehicle would barely make it to the next destination he would say, “It’s a miracle!” One time the steering locked up right in the middle of an intersection. We could have caused
another accident, but then it suddenly released and we drove on. That same day as we drove into the compound—the end of our journey—the lights of the vehicle went out and the vehicle died. Once again the driver said, “It’s a miracle!” and it truly was. Through all the delays and problems, the prayers of God’s people were answered. Our African brothers held all-night prayer vigils, fasting and praying. I fasted for a day and a half after the accident. I and a team of four people were able to preach day and night in towns and refugee camps and settlements. Thousands of people were touched with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and many people responded and came forward. Making Jesus known was such a blessing. For some, after a few problems, they would say, “Let’s stop right here and head back,” especially after rolling a vehicle. But this team counted the cost, pressed on and saw the blessing of God. International Teams has been sending teams now for the past three years to Southern Sudan and has experienced great blessing in what God is doing among the Sudanese people. Gordon Skopnik Gordon Skopnik (Wymark) works with International Teams in the Tri-Cities area of Ontario and even farther afield.
Prayer update: Adjumani, a village in Uganda where the team was based for some time, was attacked by LRA rebels. Seven people were killed and 70 houses burned. The whole community is living in fear.
Because of the team’s perseverance, and the prayers of God’s people, thousands were touched by the gospel of Jesus Christ.
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stewardship today Darren Pries-Klassen
God’s Gift: The Prince of Peace
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HE season of Spring is around the corner so why make reference to a traditional Christmas passage? It’s simple—some biblical passages aren’t specific to a season. Any time of year is a good time to reflect on the words of the prophet Isaiah: “For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (9:6). I am intrigued by the last reference to Jesus in this verse; Prince of Peace. The Prince of Peace arriving on earth during the busy and frantic time of a census 2,000 years ago is more than a little ironic. Also ironic is our present-day celebration of the arrival of the Prince of Peace. We celebrate it amidst the rush of kid’s schedules, pageant practices, gift purchases, banquets, shopping malls, get-togethers at work, family reunions, and so on. When I think of our family’s past Christmas schedule I remember I had to be very intentional to reflect on God’s gift of the Prince of Peace. As I looked beyond my own schedule into the wider world I saw that the war in Iraq had not ended, tension in the middle-east seemed only to build, Ukraine teetered on the verge of civil war, and HIV/ AIDS continued to kill thousands of people (mainly in Africa) on a daily basis. In the midst of a frantic pace of life and these horrific events God’s gift of Jesus—the Prince of Peace—seemed not only out of place but “pie-in-the-sky.” However, as I read these words from Isaiah now that Christmas is past, I am challenged to reread the Christmas story found in Luke, chapter 2. Isaiah spoke of Christ’s birth hundreds of years before it took place. That is a long time for people to wait for the Prince of Peace. It requires a great deal of patience; but more so, it requires hope. Hope that the world of Isaiah’s time was not all that God had promised. Hope that the arrival of Jesus would mean the beginning of something new. Hope that throughout the year, not only at Christmas, the gift of the Prince of Peace is not yet finished working among us. It is a shame that Christmas comes once a year. The birth of Christ, that is, not my December schedule. Remembering God’s gift of the Prince of Peace regularly gives us hope throughout the year rather than just in the cold and busy month of December. 10
If you don’t believe me, just look at how the Christmas story ends: “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favours.” It won’t be long before the crocuses and daffodils begin to poke through the ground. Just like Christmas, that will be a perfectly good time to remember God’s T gift of the Prince of Peace. M
New General Manager Appointed to MFC Erwin Warkentin has been appointed General Manager of Mennonite Foundation of Canada, effective March 14, 2005. Erwin holds degrees in theology (CMBC) and law (University of Manitoba). He has practiced law in Winnipeg, Man., for almost 25 years, focusing on wills and estates, charities and non-profit organizations, small business Erwin Warkentin and real estate. From MFC’s head office in Winnipeg, Warkentin will lead its stewardship ministry and manage 11 staff located in five offices across Canada. Peter Dueck, board chair, highlighted Warkentin’s professional and voluntary work experience, communication skills, and understanding of stewardship and charitable gift and estate planning. He brings to MFC leadership skills and vision. When asked what motivated him to consider this position, Warkentin stated, “Here is a charitable organization serving our church constituency, emphasizing stewardship through proper estate planning and development of legal trusts, many of the issues with which I have worked from a different angle for years. What a perfect fit for me, to do the work I love for the church I love!” Warkentin and his wife Val live in Winnipeg and are members of Bethel Mennonite Church. They have two adult children. MFC THE MESSENGER
with our churches
Marg Cone honoured for 40 years of service Creighton, Sask.: In early November 1964, Northern Fellowship Chapel was officially formed. The pastor at that time was Mel Koop. Later that month, Margaret Cone joined the congregation. She remains the longest-serving member in the church’s history. Margaret is our official greeter, welcoming all who come in the door with a smile, a hearty handshake, and the weekly bulletin. Early in the fall, the church board decided to plan a service of recognition of her faithfulness to the Chapel and its congregation. A portion of the service on December 5, 2004, was set aside to show our appreciation to Margaret. Letters were read from several of the pastors that have served Creighton over the past
40 years. On behalf of the congregation, Janice Imrie and Debbie Burman represented Marg with two brooches—a Christmas pin and a sheaf of wheat. A bouquet of flowers was also presented to her. Several of Margaret’s family shared in the special day. Family and friends shared personal words of appreciation during a sharing time. Following the service, a time of fellowship was shared by all over a light lunch. Margaret Moorhead
Marg Cone (centre left) was honoured in December for 40 years of service within the congregation at Northern Fellowship Chapel. She was presented with congregational gifts by Janice Irmie and Debbie Burman. Pastor Scott Koop stands on the left.
Purpose campaign helps Stony Brook reach needs Stony Brook (Steinbach, Man.): For seven weeks, from the end of September to the middle of November 2004, our church focused on our purpose in life. The 40 Days of Purpose campaign did much to boost the feeling of community in our congregation. As we went through the readings and studies together, our hearts were opened to what God had to say to us. As a result, many needs in our church family were met. It has been wonderful to see what our Heavenly Father can do if we put aside our pride and obey. This momentum has come with us into the new year. During January and February, our church offered two exciting courses that helped us with everyday matters of life. A Good Sense money course was taught, and over Valentine’s weekend in February, our church hosted a parenting seminar weekend. We look forward, as well, to more programs that aid in the daily struggles of life beginning throughout the coming year. These endeavors are part of our continuing goal to introduce and reintroduce people to a relationship with Christ. Another exciting new development in our church family is Fellowship at Five. This is a set Sunday evening for which congregation members sign up. Two couples in our church then pair those who have signed up. One member of
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each pair is called on Friday evening and told they will be hosting and the number of people (adults and children) that will be coming over. The other member of the pair is given an envelope on Sunday morning with the location of the host they have been paired with. In this surprising way many new relationships have begun in our congregation. This event is enjoyed and appreciated by our congregation. On February 20, we were privileged to have five more people join our membership. Mark and Carolyn McBride, John and Agatha (Aggie) Berg, and Ken Klassen entered into partnership with us, and we are grateful for the input and gifts they will bring to our family. Unfortunately, on March 3, 2005, we also remembered the one year anniversary of the sudden and tragic passing of 19-yearold Adam Poirier. His unexpected death left a big hole in the lives of his parents, Maurice and Esther, two of his sisters and their families and in New members who
the youth group of our congregation. We all remember how much spunk Adam brought to our worship services, and are happy to know that heaven hasn’t been the same since he got there. God certainly blessed us with his presence while he was here. “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more then all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” (Eph. 3:20–21). Miryam Bueckert
joined Stony Brook on February 20 are Mark and Carolyn McBride, John and Aggie and Berg, and Ken Klassen.
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Golden celebration Straffordville, Ont.: February 6, 2005, marked the celebration of 50 years of marriage for David and Gertruda Giesbrecht from our church. In honour of this joyous occasion, a celebration was held at the church. Nine of their 13 children were present; many had travelled a long distance to be there. Brothers, sisters and friends of the couple joined in the celebration as well. David and Gertruda have 84 descendants, including those married in, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. God has blessed the family with a rich heritage. It is also a great inheritance to the 84 that follow to have parents/grandparents who display such love for one another and for the Lord Jesus Christ. The program was officiated by Pastor John Wall who spoke an encouraging message about different milestones that the people of God inaugurated in
Gertruda and David Giesbrecht celebrated 50 years of marriage.
the Old Testament. This golden year is another milestone along Giesbrechts’ path, testifying to God’s faithfulness in their lives up to this point. The program continued as different family members and friends of Giesbrechts shared fond memories and recounted testimonies. One of the testimonies used this beautiful verse to describe the commitment they have made to one another. “Ruth answered, ‘Please don’t tell me to leave you and return home! I will go where you go, I will live where you live; your New members were received on January 2: Jake and Debbie people will be my people, your God Thiessen, and Justina and Norman Kornelson. will be my God. I will die where you die and be buried beside you. May the by Larry Zacharias on the guitar, sang Lord punish me if we are ever separated, the touching song Thank you Mom and even by death!’” (Ruth 1:16–17 CEV). Dad for Teaching Us to Pray on behalf of Ruth knew the importance of the Giesbrecht children. Following the commitment. Her dedication to her ceremony everyone enjoyed a light meal mother-in-law changed history. We and fellowship with friends and family. see later that Ruth is one of the few Part of the joy of celebrating this couple women mentioned in the genealogy of is to simply watch them in their everyday Jesus. David and Gertruda have stayed lives. They can be seen every Sunday committed to one another through every sitting in the second row, comfortable in season God has brought them through. the house of the Lord. They are always In addition to that testimony, there smiling and they are not too shy to were different musical numbers and hold hands wherever they go. They are plenty to laugh over as one by one those a couple in love and they have been a who are close to Giesbrechts shared their great model of love and an inspiration hearts. Debbie and Kimberly Giesbrecht, to their children, grandchildren, greatyoung granddaughters, added culture to grandchildren and peers. the program by singing a song in Spanish. Linda Giesbrecht Lisa Peters, a young girl, accompanied Reporter: Margaret Berg
Abundant Springs 2005 Caronport, Sask. May 20–23
Abundant Springs Entertainers The National Youth Committee is pleased to have The Panic Squad coming to our event this May. They will be bringing us an evening of entertainment on Sunday, utilizing their skills and gifts of improv comedy. Performing together for over five years, The Panic Squad is made up of Andrew Bright, Cliff Prang and Elijah Tadema, seemingly ordinary guys who have been called to use their improv talents to glorify God and spread pure, passionate comedy around the world. The Squad is convinced that people are in need of a good laugh. They believe that when God has authored the talent and is directing the vision, something special happens. Pray for The Panic Squad as they travel to Abundant Springs and minister to the hearts and lives of our young people.
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THE MESSENGER
by the way Dave K. Schellenberg
The Family of God
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HE New Testament makes it abundantly clear that the Church may be likened to a family (1 Cor. 12, Gal. 6). William Gaither penned a song to this effect: I’m so glad I’m a part of the Family of God. The first verse goes like this: You will notice we say “brother and sister” ’round here It’s because we’re a family and these folks are so near; When one has a heartache, we all share the tears, And rejoice in each victory in this family so dear I’m not always gung ho. In fact, one day my journal recorded, “Slow lazy day. Need energy and ambition.” But I think someone must have prayed for me because the next day I felt a whole lot different. In fact, I felt so different that I got up shortly after 6 on that morning and cycled to Tim Hortons for a coffee and a muffin; and, after I got back, I baked a cranberry pie (my favourite!). This is why it’s so beautiful and necessary to be part of the family of God. And we don’t have to wait till Sunday to get charged. I have found the greatest encouragement in what Christian leaders have contributed to me through challenging books and periodicals. Now, I know that one should not take oneself too seriously, but my problem often is I take myself extraordinarily seriously; consequently, it makes me depressed and miserable. Myron Augsburger is one of my favourite authors. He says in one of his books that as Christians we should not take ourselves too seriously. He encourages Christians to have a sense of humour and a joyous delight in God’s purpose. I also sometimes have difficulty forgiving myself. Is that ever your problem? Here Frederick Buechner helps me. He points out that we are to love our neighbour as ourselves. That, of course, does not mean we love ourselves with a blind passion, but I think we sometimes fail to forgive ourselves for an offence we would gladly forgive in our neighbour. And then it’s William Barclay in The Plain Man’s Book of Prayers, with its daily readings for the month, who reminds me of many of my shortcomings. He cautions against envying other’s gifts and success. He reminds me to guard against vain regrets of things that cannot be altered. He tells me to beware of indulging in thoughts and feelings which make life wretched. There is much more that he puts his finger on. It has spoken to
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me on numerous occasions. Philip Yancey is another writer who can direct you into new vistas of knowledge of the Divine. With his wide experience and insights gained from observations of life, he can be helpful in directing us to those things that ultimately matter. He is one of my favorite authors; again, if you come across one of his books, read it and see if you agree. While William Gaither has been mentioned, there are many other hymn writers who through the years, no doubt, have been an inspiration to many. We may not have a large library of books, but surely every home has a hymnbook. And in the reading or singing of an old hymn one can get a real charge. Tony Campolo, speaker and author, shares in his book Carpe Diem, how uplifting the singing of a hymn can be to him. If we believe that the Spirit works in every age, and through all Christians, then these hymns can speak directly to a need we may have that very hour. I inherited my parents’ German Gesangbuch (Hymn Book). When I see the many hymns that they have noted in the back of the book, I think they in their day got great inspiration from them. The songs spoke to them. Charles Wesley died over 200 years ago, but 15 hymns by him can still be sung out of the hymnbook currently in Steinbach EMC pews. He faithfully wrote not only for his generation, but for us living today. As a member of the Family of God, although long dead, he can still speak to us. There’s another very important feature of belonging to the family of God. One can easily get caught up with the things of the world. Your testimony is not as vibrant as it used to be. Your feelings come into play and you might feel rejected or even have lost the joy of the Lord. At such a time it revives my spirit and strengthens my faith to seek encouragement I may need at this time. We need more people like Barnabas, about whom we read in Acts 14. His real name was Joseph, but the apostles called him Barnabas—“one who encourages.” We can make our Christianity more balanced and meaningful and challenging by taking advantage of all T members of this great family—The Family of God. M
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JESSIE REIMER 1917–2004
Jessie Reimer, age 86, passed away at Bethesda Hospital on July 26 at 5 p.m. after a gradual decline in her heart condition. Her family and friends have many fond memories of her and will miss her dearly. Jessie is survived by her daughter Lorna and Abe Penner of Steinbach, Man., grandchildren Sheila and David Kroeker, Chris, Kevin and Angela; daughter Kathy of Japan; son Linden of Steinbach; son John of Steinbach; and daughter LillyAnne and Ken Giesbrecht or Steinbach, grandchildren Colin and Jeannette Giesbrecht, and Jill. She was predeceased by her husband Henry F. Reimer. The family expresses sincere thanks for all the loving care given by Woodhaven homecare workers and office staff, and also to Dr. Gordon Dyck for many years of excellent medical care. Our mother was born in Blumenort, Man., on September 1, 1917, to John P. and Katherine (Brandt) Reimer. She married Dad, Henry F. Reimer, on November 30, 1941. They enjoyed 53 years of life together, living on a farm north of Steinbach. Mom dedicated her life to raising her family. Nutritional meals were a top priority. Her values were expressed in her love for gardening, preparing many jars of preserves for the winter, and keeping her freezer full of all her wonderful garden produce. She loved to share her annual bountiful harvest
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with friends who dropped by. She also enjoyed evening outings together with Dad visiting friends, relatives, and shut-ins. The gifts from her garden and kitchen reflected her generous spirit. She had a genuine concern for others, and her nieces and nephews were very special to her. Mom was very creative and sewed many our clothes, often creating her own designs from catalogue pictures. She also sewed many blankets for MCC. For years Mondays became her work day at the Thrift Store and she enjoyed her circle of friends there. As her family left home, there were new challenges for her to face. Kathy made her home in B.C. and later in Japan. Lorna and Abe with their two children moved to the Bahamas for a three-year term. Mom entrusted them to God and took comfort in prayer. When her third grandchild was born in the Bahamas, she and Dad had the pleasure of traveling there to help Lorna with the new baby. After Dad died, Mom moved to Woodhaven Manor, where we saw the strength of her character in the way she dealt with her loneliness. She saw others who were hurting more than she was and found great joy and comfort in providing companionship or gifts of her baking. She developed wonderful new friendships. Monday’s game night was a highlight of the week. Sing song and Bible studies were also great opportunities for fellowship with friends. With her deteriorated health, her interests needed to change and her knitting and her sewing of blankets had to be set aside. She took up puzzling and appreciated help from homecare workers and family members. Mom treasured time spent with her grandkids. They pleased her greatly when they came to play Skipbo. Because going out to visit friends was so difficult, she became considerably more dependent on her family. She longed for our phone calls and visits and we each had our special role to play. Kathy’s weekly calls from Japan and annual visits were a big comfort. Mom’s faith in God was her stronghold. She was a prayer warrior, praying daily for her children, and all her grandchildren and friends. Throughout her life and especially in her later years, she demonstrated her strength and willpower to overcome adversity. She left us a great example to follow. Her Family
Would you like to challenge yourself this spring? Great courses are available for credit or audit through the
Evangelical Anabaptist Seminary Program One-week Intensive Courses: (9 a.m.–5 p.m.) • Wisdom Literature, Pierre Gilbert, April 25–29 • Discipleship and Ethics, Mark Baker, May 16–20 • Evangelism, Art McPhee, May 24–28 • Human Sexuality from a Christian Perspective, Roland Martinson, May 24–28 All courses are taught on the Canadian Mennonite University campus and may be taken for credit at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary or Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary. For information, please contact: Pierre Gilbert, Coordinator Ph.: 204-487-3300/877-231-4570 E-mail: pgilbert@cmu.ca
THE MESSENGER
shoulder tapping Steinbach Christian High School, in Steinbach, Man., invites applications for a full-time principal for 2005–2006 academic year. Applicants should be able to provide spiritual, educational, and administrative leadership. Applicants should submit a letter of application and a current resume with three references. Police and Child Abuse Registry checks will be expected of all interviewees. Closing date for application is March 18, 2005. SCHS appreciates all applicants; however, only those considered for interviews will be contacted further. Interviews may begin before the closing date should a suitable candidate be found. Submit applications and resumes to Sam Doerksen, Board Chair, SCHS, 50 PTH 12N, Steinbach, MB R5G 1T4. Phone 204-326-3537; fax 204-326-6908; e-mail schs@schs.ca; www.schs.ca. Endeavour Fellowship Chapel in east-central Saskatchewan, with a congregation of about 50, is currently looking for a pastor. Contact Tom Treen (Elders’ Chairman) at 306-547-3383 or tdpromise@sasktel.net. What are you doing this summer? Summer staff positions available at Inner City Youth Alive, 418 Aberdeen Ave., Winnipeg, MB R2W 1V7. Phone 204-582-8779; e-mail icya@mts.net; www. innercityyouthalive.org. 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 204-326-6401 or emcmessenger@mts.net. Call Mennonite Disaster Service (Winnipeg, Man., office 866-261-1274) about volunteering shortterm (one to three weeks) and long term (one month or more) or check the website at www. mds.mennonite.net for current opportunities. Construction or cooking experience is helpful, but not necessary for bringing hope back to the
lives of disaster survivors. All ages 18 and over are welcome. La Crete Christian Fellowship seeks a full-time 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. 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, 780928-3783. MacGregor (Man.) EMC is seeking applications for a full-time pastor to minister to a congregation of about 140 people. The applicant must be able to relate well to all age groups. If interested, please contact Bruce Unger at 204-685-3177, email bruceunger@mts.net, or by mail to Pastoral Search Committee, c/o MacGregor EMC, Box 133, MacGregor, MB R0H 0R0. Full-time pastor needed for community church connected with Mennonite Church Canada in Burns Lake, B.C., 2 1/2 hours northwest of Prince George. Attendance is around 85 plus; good building with room for growth. Church serves people from a wide range of church backgrounds, making them open to God’s choice of pastor from another denomination. People are ready for positive changes to draw those who seek the Lord or to be encouraged. For information and salary negotiations, contact Rob Wiebe at 250-698-7334 or rcwiebe@futurenet. bc.ca. Is God calling you to use your leadership abilities, management skills and two or more years of cross-cultural experience to serve others through MCC? This year MCC needs people to lead work in Congo, Bangladesh, and its Visitor Exchange Program (based in Akron, Pa.). In 2006, MCC needs leaders for work in Jamaica, Bolivia, Haiti, Tanzania, Nigeria, Mexico and a West Coast director (based in Reedley, Calif.). Plan ahead. Application review begins immediately for 2005 positions. Review for 2006 positions begins August 2005. Contact Charmayne Brubaker at 717-859-1151, cdb@mcc. org or your nearest MCC office for descriptions and information about these openings. Required: general director for smaller faith mission in northern Manitoba working largely with First Nations people. Director is expected to give overall leadership, overseeing a staff of about
July 10 to August 6, 2005 Team members 18 years of age or older Cost $2,500 CDN See your youth pastor for information, or contact the EMC office at: Project Macedonia 2005 – Paraguay 440 Main Street, Steinbach, Manitoba R5G 1Z5 Canada Phone: 204-326-6401 E-mail: emcger@mts.net
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20 missionaries. A candidate should have a heart for Native ministry, preferably have ministry and some administrative experience, and be willing to relocate to Thompson, Man. For information, contact: Continental Mission, Inc., 159 Cree Road, Thompson, MB R8N 0C2; phone 204-778-4491; email cmi@mts.net. Could you do one of these? The EMC Archives Committee seeks volunteer help with: Data entry on computer, assisting in the photo library, organizing overflow area, backlog of materials, organizing books, examining vault contents, organizing Messenger sets. Do you enjoy computers? Do you hate computers? There’s work! Contact Terry Smith, executive secretary, at 204-326-6401 or emcmessenger@mts.net. Red Rock Bible Camp is recruiting spring and summer staff. For a complete listing, contact rrbc@redrockbiblecamp.com. Two particular positions are as follows: photovideographer (bursary plus support) and assistant cook (salary plus support). Hague Gospel Church (EMMC) is accepting applications for a senior pastor. HGC is a young, growing church with about 100 regular attendees. It is located in Hague, Sask. Please forward resumes to Hague Gospel Church, attention: Pastor Search Committee, Box 577, Hague, SK S0K 1X0, or e-mail willie.unger@comco-controls. com.
Executive Position
Applications are invited for a part-time (60%) administrative position with the EM Conference, responsible to the Board of Trustees and the General Board. This position includes the role of chief financial officer and requires training and experience in financial management. Administrative leadership and office management skills are essential. Good oral and written communication abilities are required. For information or an application form, contact the office at 204-326-6401 or Ron Penner, EMC Moderator, at 204-255-8062. Applications should be in by April 30, 2005.
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. Note: Both positions are open to male and female applicants.
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kids’ corner Loreena Thiessen
Something small Can Be
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HAT would riding your bike be like if its tires were not made of rubber? What about riding in your car? Could its tires be made of wood or metal? What would it be like to kick a soccer ball not made of rubber? Or, dribble a basketball, play water polo, or just bounce a ball on the sidewalk? Some things have to be made of rubber, like rubber boots, to keep your feet dry, or a ball so that it will bounce. Rubber is a very important material. Another value of rubber is that it is air tight. Tires give us a smooth ride because they are made of rubber, but also because they hold air. If the air goes out we cannot ride our bike, or bounce a ball. Balloons are also made of rubber. To enjoy a balloon it has to stretch and it has to hold air. A tiny hole lets out all the air and the balloon is gone. A balloon may seem like a small toy but it is also very important. At first balloons were not toys at all. They were used in science experiments and to measure the speed of air high above the earth. They were also used to calculate altitudes to help airplanes fly at the right height. Today balloons help to study weather conditions. This tells us if a storm is coming. Another use of balloons is for advertising. A company or a store will print its name on a balloon and when people see it they will think of that company. For a hundred years advertising on balloons has been an important way to use them. Can you imagine a birthday party without balloons? Bright colorful balloons are a sure sign that something exciting is about to happen. This happened in a faraway country called Bangladesh, where many children are poor and cannot go to school. But each one has a secret dream. Thousands of children wrote their dream on a card. Each card was placed inside a balloon. Then all the balloons were let go and they floated out across the world. The children hoped that someone who found them would know about their secret dreams. In Matthew 10:42 Jesus says that one small cup of water given to someone who needs it will be rewarded. T Something small can be big. M PAGE 16
BIG!
Make a balloon garden You will need: • a plastic funnel • a clear balloon • soil • sprout seeds What you do: Pour ½ cup of soil into a clear balloon. Hold the balloon firmly by the neck and add ¼ cup of water into the soil. The soil should be wet, but not soggy. Next pour seeds into the balloon. Sprout or radish seeds work best. Gently blow air into the balloon. When the balloon is almost full of air, tie a knot in the neck of the balloon without tipping it. Tie a ribbon or a piece of kite string around the knot, hang it near a window, and watch your garden grow.
THE MESSENGER Evangelical Mennonite Conference 440 Main Street Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 Publications Mail Agreement #40017362 PAP Registration #9914