child child!
Dr. Harvey Plett says,
Let a be a The
Messenger EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE VOLUME 43 NUMBER 9 MAY 4, 2005
The
editorials
EDITOR Terry M. Smith
Districts or presbyteries?
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n October 1998, a national youth leaders’ retreat was held near St. John, North Dakota, to make the event more accessible to EMC leaders from outside Manitoba; only Manitobans came. In March 2005, southern Ontarians and Manitobans attended the well-run, positive national ministerial retreat in Pinawa, Man. No one came from the western provinces. This is, in part, the new reality. As our conference properly grows and spreads, geography makes gathering for national events more challenging. The emphasis is perhaps shifting toward regions actively working together and holding events. Some do this well; others less so. I suspect that more power will shift to the regions in future years. Such regional ministerials and gatherings could become more authoritative. Could there be division into districts or presbyteries? Shall national events remain important? I hope so. All churches in our nine current regions benefit from sending delegates to
A s
national decision-making meetings and by participation in national inspirational events. Some congregations will need to work harder to ensure that ministers, delegates and members are present. The conference is changing, but change doesn’t mean we need each other less. Our covenant in Christ isn’t only to be lived out on local or regional levels. Regions, more power to you! Use it well and for our common good. T Annual convention is coming. M Terry M. Smith EMC Regions in Canada
Our hope is in Christ
Christians, our faith centres on Christ. We are to “always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3:15). Our hope is in Christ. The good news is, “For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God” (1 Peter 3:18). This is of critical importance. Anabaptists have a heritage of discipleship, of indebtedness, of suffering. We are not alone in this. About the same time that thousands of early Anabaptists were killed in Europe, thousands of Roman Catholics were killed for their faith in Japan. When 17th century Covenanters objected to liturgical changes in the Church of Scotland, they were hunted, jailed, killed, and banished. One of the imprisoned leaders was brought the hand of his son; the leader remained convinced of the Lord’s goodness. During the Second World War,
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Messenger
hundreds, if not thousands, of Protestant ministers and Catholic priests were sent to concentration camps for protesting the actions of Germany’s government. Anabaptist history is, to us, a prized part of Church history, and the wider Church can glean lessons from it. We need to continue to stand for Anabaptist and wider Protestant concerns. All parts of the Church, though, do well to humbly view our histories against the backdrop of that of the wider Church. Respect our past as we will and should, no part of Christ’s Church can hold up its history as the shining example of interpretation or devotion; that risks overlooking the depth of convictions held and suffering endured elsewhere. Faithful suffering for Christ continues on in the world, including in Anabaptist circles. The best way to honour Christ and any part of the Church’s history is to follow T Him today. 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. 11 – June 8 (copy due May 27)
THE MESSENGER
FASD families need supportive faith communities On February 18 Teresa Kellerman explored the impact of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) on the family at an evening session held at Fort Garry EMC in Winnipeg, Man. Kellerman directs the FAS Community Resource Center and is president of Fasstar Enterprise in Tucson, Arizona. The event, called Riding the Rollercoaster, highlighted the need to make faith communities aware of, and sensitive to, families dealing with FASD, mental illness and other disabilities. It was co-sponsored by MCC Manitoba and Community Living Manitoba. Kellerman is the adoptive mother of two young adults with special needs, one with FASD. She explained that parents of children with special needs must have support systems within their community, but that these systems are frequently not present due to a lack of awareness and understanding. A child’s behavioral problems can isolate parents from their peers. “People in church and in public assumed that I just didn’t have control of my kids,” said Kellerman. The fear and grief that wells up out of this public perception can manifest itself in anger, withdrawal and seclusion. “Many (parents),” she said, “are afraid of what will happen to their children after they die. These parents are grieving the loss of a dream, not
only for their children, but for future generations and their own retirement.” Kellerman was candid about her journey to balance spirituality with the daily challenges of raising a young man with FASD. “I felt socially isolated and so I isolated myself spiritually,” she said. “I was angry with God, and thought, ‘You’d better have a good place for me in heaven, because I’m working hard with these kids.’” Kellerman is one of several guest speakers on FASD that MCC Manitoba has invited to speak to church groups. MCC Manitoba has been helping with an FASD parent support group for two years and meetings are held every four months. MCC’s Mental Health and Disabilities program is designed to help families and individuals dealing with a wide range of issues, including FASD. To find out more, visit the website at www. mcc.org/fasd. MCC
Faith and Life Choirs
BENEFIT CONCERTS for Mennonite Heritage Village Steinbach, Manitoba Faith and Life Women’s Chorus Faith and Life Male Choir with soloists Henriette Schellenberg and Victor Engbrecht Saturday, May 28, 7:30 p.m. Buhler Performing Arts Centre Mennonite Collegiate Institute, Gretna Sunday, May 29, 7:30 p.m. Bethel Mennonite Church 465 Stafford Ave., Winnipeg Rush Seating
Teresa Kellerman (right) poses with Irma Janzen, the coordinator of the MCC Canada’s mental health and disabilities program.
May 4, 2005
Donations in lieu of admission gratefully accepted. Proceeds in support of the educational and pioneer interpretive programs at Mennonite Heritage Village, and the Faith and Life music program.
coming events May 14 Retirement celebration for Dr. John J. Friesen Canadian Mennonite University Winnipeg, Man. 204-487-3300 May 20–23 Abundant Springs 2005 Cascade Caronport, Sask. 204-326-6401 May 27–28 All Women’s Day Speaker: Elizabeth George Providence College Otterburne, Man. 204-433-7488 ext. 256 May 27–29 Birders Retreat Camp Moose Lake Sprague, Man. 204-895-2267 June 4 Open Circle barbeque Community Integration Initiative Kildonan Park Winnipeg, Man. 204-772-5317 June 6–8 55 Plus Retreat Camp Koinonia Boissevain, Man. Speaker: Jake Neufeld/Jake Harms Parables of Jesus 204-895-2267 June 12 Eden 13th Annual Charity Golf Tournament Winkler Golf Course Winkler, Man. 204-325-5355 June 16 11th Annual EMC Golf Classic Steinbach Fly-In Golf Course Steinbach, Man. 204-947-7185 or 204-326-7000 July 1–3 2005 EMC Convention Speaker Rod Masterson Finding Calm in Chaos Peace River Bible Institute Sexsmith, Alta. 204-326-6401 July 2–8 Mysterious Providence Arts Camp 2005 for grades 7–12 Providence College Otterburne, Man. 204-433-7488 ext. 260
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Let a
Child C be a
Dr. Harvey Plett
A
question that bothers many parents is, “If my child dies, is it lost?” Partly, this reflects weak teaching by pastors about what the Bible says about children. Organizations that promote child evangelism tend to foster discomfort by stressing a child’s need, regardless of age, to make a decision, and by teaching Eternal Security, they offer comfort in that a child’s decision is secure forever. Another
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influence is dynamic Christians who were baptised in infancy— we are not sure what to do with their baptism. Such confusion makes us search for an answer. For many, child dedication has become a partial answer. The ceremony gives a sense of comfort. The hope is it will do something to the child until it is old enough to make its own decision, and also condition the child to make the decision when old enough. Though it doesn’t do anything for the child, it makes parents feel better. We tend to forget that since we are free moral agents, no human can dedicate another. The Bible gives us some guidance on this. First, a child is not condemned because of Adam’s sin. Such guilt has been dealt with in Christ. Romans 5:12 says, “Therefore as sin came into the world through one man and death through sin, and so death passed to all because all men sinned.” Death came because of sin. Paul asks if death came because of sin, how is it that all die? His answer, because we have all sinned. We will die not because Adam sinned but because we sinned. In Titus, Paul says that the grace of God has appeared for the salvation of all men (Titus 2:11; see Romans 5:18–21). I conclude that we all sin because we are children of Adam, but we will be held responsible for our sin and not for Adam’s. If we go to hell it is because of our sin, not inherited sin. Second, Jesus teaches children are in the Kingdom of God. Look at Mark 10:13–16, especially verse 14, where Jesus says, “Let the children come to me, do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of God.” Rather clearly and simply Jesus rebukes his disciples for hindering children coming to Him and then adds
THE MESSENGER
Child
!
that they are in the Kingdom (see also Luke 18:15–17 and Matthew 19:13–15). Children are in the Kingdom because Christ’s salvation dealt with any guilt from Adam that might be passed on to a child. No ceremony or baptism is needed to secure its salvation—the child is covered by Christ’s blood. Does this mean a child does not need to make a decision for Christ? Every one must make a decision when he or she reaches the age of accountability. When is a person old enough to be held accountable so that when he sins he will die? The Bible does not give a specific age. Those who were 19 and younger were able to enter the Promised Land (Numbers 14:29–31); those 20 and over were condemned. When Jesus is brought to the temple at the age of 12 (Luke 2:41), this could have been preparation for his Bar Mitzvah a year later. At 13, a Jewish boy became accountable for his obedience to the Law. Both are illustrative and not necessarily normative. However, we know from child development that a person grows in knowledge, understanding, and accountability. Somewhere around puberty a person begins to become accountable. (It’s around puberty that children can be confirmed in infant baptism churches, when courts begin to hold children accountable for crimes, and when governments begin to issue driving learner’s permits.) To make a decision for Christ, a person has to understand some of what sin, faith, and salvation are. Understanding sin as merely individual acts does not mean there is an May 4, 2005
understanding of what sin is. Just because a child is taught what to do and what not do does not mean they know what sin is. They are being taught the truth. Further, since each person develops and matures at his/her own pace, a community of faith needs to discern when a person is accountable enough to receive baptism. Second, the transition from childhood to adulthood through adolescence takes time; there’s an overlapping of childhood and young adult states. This demands discernment by the faith community—one made humbly, lovingly but not motivated by fear.
How does this work out?
c Accept children as children. They are safe in the Kingdom of God. Do not demand that they make little adult choices in the spiritual area any more than you expect such choices in other areas. Accepting that they are in the Kingdom gave me as a parent a real sense of peace.
d Teach children that Jesus loves them, that they are in the
Kingdom, and that they need to affirm their love for Jesus. The parent-child love relationship is a good model for love between Jesus and child. Don’t teach the frightening realities of lostness until they can understand. Any child can be wrongly scared into a decision. Use discretion in selecting Bible stories taught to children. We need to develop the best materials possible and then diligently teach our children, in our homes, churches and schools, the precious truths of God.
c Be aware of what our children are taught in Sunday school, at camp, Vacation Bible School, and club.
d Expect that children below the age of accountability will
make decisions for Jesus because they see how adults make decisions. If this happens, rejoice in the response, but don’t deal with them as a miniature adult. Accept the decision as that of a child.
c Expect that our children will make many decisions as they grow in their understanding. We need to affirm them each time.
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d Ideally, a child from a Christian home should never know a time that it was lost because it made right decisions as the opportunity came along.
baptize infants, but neither do we accept that baptism. We deal here with truth, not feelings about a person’s goodness. We need to graciously stand on the truth.
c Clean up our language when it comes to child dedication. We cannot dedicate another individual. We can influence them only. When reporting such services we should call them parent dedications. Dedication of parents is an excellent idea, but it does not mean that parents who don’t do this in a public service are less Christian or less concerned to raise their children for the Lord.
c When a person with a dramatic
testimony shares, pair it with a testimony that isn’t dramatic. Guard against the impression that only those with dramatic conversions can share or have a genuine conversion or have something to share. A child will share her/his decisions they made as a child and possibly date their conversion from that time.
d Be clear that baptism is
believer’s baptism and not infant or child baptism. Baptism is not a sacrament that conveys the grace of God, but a ceremony that illustrates God’s grace and incorporates the individual into the visible local body of Christ. We don’t condemn those who
On this issue of the child and the Kingdom of God, we, as a Conference, have drifted toward both sacramentalism and demanding of a child what it is incapable of doing. It is time to reaffirm in word and practice that our children are in the Kingdom and should be baptized when T they are of accountable age. M Dr. Harvey Plett has long served as an educator and an EMC minister. He has formerly served as EMC moderator and as president of Steinbach Bible College. He is an adjunct professor at SBC.
Abundant Springs 2005 Caronport, Sask. May 20–23
Abundant Springs Seminars
Pray that our seminar leaders, who will be leading numerous workshops throughout the weekend, will teach with boldness and sensitivity. Hearing God’s Call – Garth Friesen Focus and Purpose in the Sports Arena – Dave Fehr Integrity: A Life Devoted to God – Trevor Esau Missions: Why All the Fuss? – Flo Friesen Did You Call Me a Mennonite? – David Kruse Homosexuality—What Would Jesus Say? – Tye Gamey Just Thought You Oughta Know (girls only) – Fiona Thiessen Straight Talk About Purity (guys only) – Chris Reimer Improv Comedy 101 – The Panic Squad Youthworker/Pastor Sharpening Tool – Matt Wilks
David Kruse
Dave Fehr
Flo Friesen
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Garth Friesen
Tye Gamey
Fiona Thiessen
Chris Reimer
Trevor Esau
THE MESSENGER
letters Not feelings, but reality I was deeply grieved and troubled at the headline on the cover and the article Jesus was not forsaken in the March 23 issue of The Messenger. Nowhere does Scripture indicate that Jesus “felt” forsaken or that He could not see God because of His suffering. When Jesus cried, “Why have you forsaken me?” He was forsaken. Jesus’ suffering on the cross has no comparison with our sufferings. His suffering was the sin burden and guilt of the whole world upon Him. God in His holiness could not look on the indescribable mound of sin and guilt that was on His Son. God’s holiness cannot be in the presence of sin. When Jesus cried, “It is finished!” the redemption plan was finished, and the Father embraced His Son when He cried, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” “Because He was forsaken, we are accepted.” Because He was forsaken, we His redeemed will never be forsaken. May He forever be praised! Mary Doerksen Winnipeg, Man.
Jesus was forsaken for us! The problem I have with the author’s article [We are not forsaken in our suffering! March 23, 2005] is in following his thoughts through to their logical conclusion. He argues that when Jesus said, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” He only felt forsaken, but was not, in reality, forsaken by the Father. If you follow that argument through, however, you end up in a position where every statement of Jesus’ can be second-guessed into being Truth or not, depending on His circumstances. In so doing, Jesus is stripped of His Godhood. Is this really where we want to go? I would rather stick with the truth that Jesus is God and, as such, was still able to discern truth while on the cross in the midst of terrible physical and spiritual suffering and realized that He was in fact forsaken by the Father. To me, that is not a discouragement in the midst of my own sufferings, but rather an incredible gift that He has taken my place in being forsaken, so that I no longer have to be. Ivy Sawatzky Winnipeg, Man.
May 4, 2005
How could the Father gaze upon sin? I am thankful that the readers of this periodical are discerning and do not necessarily agree with everything that is written in it. For that reason it may be redundant for me to respond to the recent article We are not forsaken in our suffering [March 23, 2005], but I do so for my own sake then. While I appreciate the sentiment that both Warner and Heppner [letter, April 6] expressed, I am not so sure that they have adequately contextualized the theology they are promoting. We are too eager to portray God as a kind, loving, approachable personality that we forget that he is a holy God as well. Thus, the writers wish us to adopt a God who does not forsake us in our suffering. That’s good. Yet it seems to take a great leap from the context of Christ’s forsakenness which has eternal implications, to our own personal circumstances of suffering. Christ’s forsakenness was imbedded with the divine plan in which Jesus took on the immense load of the world’s sins and received our punishment for said sins. How could the Father gaze upon this concentration of sin heaped upon his own Son when the Bible teaches us that sin is revolting to him? A more careful study of Scripture would reveal that “it was the LORD’s will to crush him and cause him to suffer” (Isaiah 53:10). The contemporary worship songs that Heppner wants to scrap are more honest in revealing the truth that because “the Father turned his face away,” we are the beneficiaries of an amazing grace.
A short letter does not do justice to the theological implications that reveal my own convictions. But let’s continue to be discerning about our theology and dialogue together on these core truths. Darryl Klassen Kleefeld, Man.
To register, call Duane Penner (204-947-7185) or Gary Reimer (204-326-7000)
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April 17
Steinbach Bible College graduates 29 Sixteen degree and diploma students graduated from Steinbach Bible College on April 17, 2005, with the commencement held at Steinbach EMC. Thirteen others received certificates earlier. President Abe Bergen welcomed graduates, family members, and guests. “With this great gift of education, you have entitled yourself to be better prepared for the challenges you have yet to face to advance the work of God in this world,” he said. “The church of Jesus Christ needs people like you right here, right now.” Valedictorian Kevin Martens said, “It is your privilege and your responsibility as members of Christ’s body to continue to encourage each other to grow into the likeness of Christ. I exhort you not to squander the opportunity that is yours.” Martens is pastor of Steinbach CMC. Cathy Elias gave the undergraduate response: “With the example you have
Layton Friesen, commencement speaker
Valedictorian Kevin Martens
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left behind, with the help of the SBC community, and with a lot of prayer, we will strive to live as Christ did and give of his love, as you have shown us many times.” Layton Friesen, pastor of Fort Garry EMC in Winnipeg, Man., gave the commencement address. Friesen’s focus was on Galatians 6:1–2, where Paul’s concern is not with a Spirit-led person, but “with a Spirit-led community.” It’s all “relational stuff.” There are “three signs here that should make us suspect that we are living in a community that has been touched by the Spirit,” said Friesen. First, there is a “method of gentleness toward those who sin.” He said, Sixteen graduates received degrees or diplomas. “Maybe we could say that we don’t expect people to believe we are pacifist in regards to Iraqi dictators if we have not been pacifist in regards to transgressors in the church. I suspect that gentleness is perhaps one of the more counter-cultural fruits of the Spirit.” Second, Paul guards against a misinterpretation. “Take care that you yourselves are not tempted,” said the pastor. “In other words, as we live in the church as a Spirit-fused community, stay a little suspicious of the human heart. Never be caught overestimating your own sanctification.” Friesen quoted John Calvin, “that great hero of the Anabaptist Reformation”: “For what is more consonant with faith but that we are naked of all virtue…to take all away all occasion for glorying that He alone may stand forth glorious Among the EMC graduates, Rick Harder received a BA in Christian Studies. and we glory in Him?” Third, “bear one another’s burdens and in this way fulfill the law of Christ.” in four musical selections. Professor This goes against “the iron law” that Ernie Koop prayed the dedicatory prayer, “you get what you deserve.” That law, and President Bergen pronounced the though widely necessary, can quickly benediction. lead to individual despair. There needs Steinbach Bible College is an to be grace. “We will look at the iron law Evangelical Anabaptist college co-owned of cause and effect in the eye and say, by EMC, Evangelical Mennonite Mission ‘stop in the name of the law of Christ,’” Conference, and Chortitzer Mennonite said Friesen. Conference. Luann Hiebert led the College Chorale Terry M. Smith
THE MESSENGER
with our missionaries Paraguay
A relationship, not a religion Richard, a fellow who works in the bookstore in Caaguazu, had been talking with Yanik, a university student. He called me over to introduce her. He said that she was interested in learning more of the Bible. She took home a Bible correspondence course. She was back shortly, having done the lesson and saying that she wanted to accept Jesus in her life. She began to absorb the teachings of the Word and with it came many questions about the religious life she had been living. She came from a staunch Catholic home and was still teaching catechism. She had been searching for answers, but didn’t find them in her “religion,” as she put it. She was discovering that what she now had was a personal relationship with Jesus and not a religion. Her changed life opened up many opportunities for her to testify of who Christ was for her now. She was “trail blazing” the Christian faith in her family, at her place of work, at university and among friends. It definitely meant going against current, but her faith was growing stronger as she faced these
Doris and Yanik in their study time.
May 4, 2005
challenges with God’s help. I had been introduced to a “one on one” discipleship course called Call to Joy used by the Billy Graham team in follow-up. I was able to introduce this course to her just before Christmas. This gave us weekly times together to share, study and pray together. More and more she felt abandoned by her family as she became more open about her faith. This has been a very painful walk for her. It seemed that since she was taking such an open stand for the Lord, the opposition was more intense, but her “spiritual muscles” were growing. On January 12 she was beginning to see some fruit. Edit, another new believer, and I had gone to visit her. She introduced us to a friend who had just come to live with her while attending university as well. Yanik had already testified to her and we prayed with her as she invited Jesus into her life. That was a neat discipleship class! New Christians are said to be the best evangelizers and that “first love” for Jesus is contagious. She soon saw several others come to know Jesus as their Saviour—family members and friends. Her family has changed and is now respecting her stand as a Christian. She is now asking for baptism and we pray that she may integrate into a church body where she can be edified and contribute in a meaningful way. We’re asking for God’s angels to camp around each one of these new believers as they journey with Jesus, be it through sunny times or stormy days. Remember the roots go deeper when the winds blow stronger. Will you join us in prayer for these and many other who are searching? Doris Friesen Doris Friesen (Blumenort) is involved in ministry in Caaguazu, Paraguay.
Part of the group that has come to the Lord.
Peter and Anne Wiebe have been involved in providing pastoral care to conservative Low German-speaking families in northern Mexico. Peter and Anne are retiring. Now, who will help Low German-speaking families as they face many challenges in Mexico?
Will you? Contact: Lester Olfert, Foreign Secretary EMC Board of Missions 440 Main Street Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 Phone: 204-326-6401, Fax: 204-326-1613 E-mail: emconf@mts.net
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Mexico
Una fiesta! A party!
Yes, we had a party! Ebenezer in Cuauhtemoc, Chihuahua, celebrated its 10th birthday on Sunday, April 3. The church filled with members, visitors, a neighboring sister church, and people who were part of our fellowship in the very beginning. What a joy to “raise our Ebenezer [stone of help]” and realize once again that God is faithful. With Samuel, we said, “Thus far the Lord has helped us!” It was the perfect occasion to renew our vows to the Lord and to His church as we remembered God’s goodness in the past and and claimed His promise to go with us into the future. On April 2, 1995, our church was officially organized with eight members. The late Manuel Barragan, then president of the Conferencia Evangelica Misionera de Mexico, officiated. Of the original eight members, five are still active in Ebenezer; two are active in other churches and one has gone to be with the Lord. Many have come through our doors and have heard the Word. Some have stayed and have become responsible Christians. We are grateful for the privilege of moving ahead with these committed Christians. Our church began through a children’s ministry in the home of Magda Ceniceros, who knew that her time on earth was limited. She was a member of the Anahuac
Ebenezer church shares a meal as part of a 10th birthday celebration.
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church, but when her family moved to Cuauhtemoc, she wanted to influence her street for Christ. In 1992, I was asked to help in this ministry. In 1993, Walter and Josefina Rempening, Isaak and Maria Bergen and I formed a church planting team with the fixed purpose in mind of establishing a Spanish Mennonite church in Cuauhtemoc. Shortly thereafter, Bergens had a sabbatical leave and upon their return moved to other ministries. From Magda’s home, we moved next door, and later to a small hall close by which we named Centro de Transformacion (Transformation Centre). Here we began Sunday morning services. In 1994, the property on Belisario Chavez belonging to the Comite Menonita de Servicios became available to us and we worshipped in the “blue house.” With the help of Canadian work teams from Mennville and La Crete, we were able to dedicate our present building in December of 1997. We are beginning to consider the construction of Phase II as we plan and work toward growth. As I reflect on our church progress, I am indeed grateful to the Lord for His presence with us. I am thankful for the dedication of Rempenings. Together we have sought and received the Lord’s guidance in the many details and problems that arise in church planting. We have worked together in love and unity and that in itself is a testimony to God’s working within us. With the help of the four deacons appointed in 2004, we trust that the church will continue to
move forward with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Our strength as a church, I believe, rests in our emphasis that all members should be active participants in ministry. Do all of our present twenty-eight members live and serve in victory? No, some are struggling and require support and much prayer. Our vision is to be faithful in the preaching of the Word and in the living out of that Word. Our vision includes evangelizing in Vista Hermosa, a five-minute drive from our church, and in some way establish a permanent presence in this new and growing suburb. We are ten years old now. What does the Lord require of us in the next ten? Alvira Friesen Alvira Friesen (Rosenort EMC) has served in Mexico since 1987.
Arnaldo Gonzalez gave the message.
Special music was also part of the celebrations.
THE MESSENGER
Venezuela
Lives won, a wallet found, a hose repaired The Lord is doing neat things these days in Puerto Ordaz, where I live and teach. Actually He does neat things all the time; sometimes He allows us the unique privilege of seeing some of it with our own eyes. Just in these last days I have watched three individuals give their lives to Christ. I have occasion to visit several more folks now and then who are opening up to the Lord bit by bit. I find that so thrilling, it creates in me a tremendous desire to share it with you—those who pray for me and those who give financially. Thanks from the bottom of my heart for every prayer you say and every gift you send on my behalf. May you feel rewarded knowing that your prayers and funds are reaping results for eternity. I am continually aware that without you I could not be here, and without the Lord I would be nothing. Being a teacher here has its side benefits. Our school is in a state that is famous for its many lovely waterfalls. Most are hard to reach, but this last school break a group of us hired a jeep to take us to see a few. Recently I was visited by a student, a special one in the sense that she is the daughter of a student I had in my first year here in Venezuela.
A national missionary friend who travels to churches teaching children stays with me when she travels through town. I went to our big department store a month or so ago. We can’t take purses in—just wallets. I had my cell phone, bank card, keys, driver’s license and other identification stuffed into my little money bag. As I shopped, I called a person about an item, put down my wallet, and walked away. When I remembered my wallet, it was gone. I panicked and ran to the security desk, but what good would that do if the thief was already on his way out the store? I ran back and forth when suddenly a gentleman approached me and asked if my name was Amanda. He had my wallet and told me to make sure all was still inside. I shiver when I think of that. I was totally helpless. I dreaded the hassle that goes with replacing locks, keys, cards and more. Was that an angel? Next day a friend and I drove to take a family to church over the bridge and on the other side of the river, in a part of town I would prefer not to have to stop for help. We took the family home and then came back to our part of town looking for a place to eat lunch. Suddenly the car
stopped dead in its tracks just before we reached the downhill part of the road. We glided to the curb, at a perfect spot to have trouble and waited till help came. A radiator hose had snapped and the water escaped. It was simple to fix, but believe me, I was glad it happened half a mile from home instead of in that other part of town. Amanda Barkman
Amanda Barkman (Blumenort) teaches missionary children in Venezuela under New Tribes Mission.
with our churches
VBS has ‘amazing possibilities’ Steinbach EFC (Man.): Every year our church puts on an incredible VBS program. We do this as an outreach to the community, as approximately 70 percent of the children who attend are not from our church.
Volunteers act out a skit at VBS.
May 4, 2005
While this is a great reason to put forth all the effort it takes to put this together, I have another reason for thinking it’s great. And it is the reason I wish to encourage other churches to put forth the effort. It takes about 70 volunteers for our church to hold VBS for the hundredplus kids who attend. That’s 70 people working for the same goal. Watching this happen inspires me every year. This is an awesome example of the body of Christ in action. VBS brings together the varying gifts within the Body, gifts that God has blessed EFC with. It all begins with a host of people who get together to paint, draw, cut,
paste and more. We’re not necessarily all gifted artists, but we’re willing hands. Once we have the props on the go, we look for storytellers, guides, game organizers, snack providers, crafts leaders, song leaders, actors for skits, and a few “schec bangels” (gofers) to do the running around. Then we wait for the kids. I love to watch all of this happen because it demonstrates to all how the Body of Christ should function: likeminded, united in mind and spirit to serve the Lord. Together we’re building His kingdom, a real team effort. I would like to encourage other EM churches to look at the amazing possibilities instead of the daunting task. Yes, it’s hard work, but the joys of working together and seeing the joy in the children who come make it well worth the effort. Diane Koop
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Call us Cornerstone Fellowship Church! Swift Current, Sask.: Greetings from sunny southwest Saskatchewan and Cornerstone Fellowship Church (formerly known as Swift Current EMC). Medicine Hat, Alta., is Canada’s official sunniest city, and Swift Current takes second place. A sunny sky almost every day of the year makes for a sunny disposition in people. God is truly great to people in this area. In early May 2004, Cornerstone officially welcomed our new pastoral couple Randall and Faith Krahn, and their daughter Rebecca. What a joyous occasion as we renewed our friendship with them. More than 20 years ago Randall and Faith were youth leaders in our church, and most of Randall’s family resides in Swift Current, so it is like old times. We really appreciate the freshness which Randall has brought to the pulpit through his sermons. This writer sits on the edge of his pew waiting for the next part of Randall’s sermon. His knowledge and thoughts regarding Scripture is supreme. All who are in attendance on a Sunday morning cannot believe how quickly the 30 to 35 minutes for his message goes by, and so we patiently wait for next Sunday. Thank you, Randall and Faith, for accepting the invitation to pastor our flock. I must not exclude Faith in my comments; we are truly blessed by her musical talent and leadership. God bless you, Faith, as you serve in this area. Christmas is always an exciting time of year and this past one was even better as Faith Krahn agreed to direct our Christmas play, A Star is Born. The program was held December 21.
Fellowship and refreshments followed the program. Sunday school children did a fantastic job of presenting the true meaning of Christmas. January found our church accepting membership transfers. Dave and Lorraine Dyck moved from Leamington, Ont., a couple of years ago, and felt it was time to get involved in the work of Cornerstone. They transferred from Leamington EMMC. Their three children are Stephanie, Curtis and Amanda. Ben and Marge Banman from Wymark EMC also transferred their membership. We look forward to working with both couples in future. Welcome. On a serious note and with a fervent request for prayer, Faith Krahn was diagnosed in fall with breast cancer. She had surgery and is now in the process of taking chemotherapy. We ask people to pray for healing in Faith’s situation and for reassurance and understanding for the family. Times like these are stressful and challenging. We pray for God’s healing hand upon her and that His will be done. In February, Dr. Alfred Bell (Faith’s dad) delivered the morning message after leading a significant goal-setting session for the entire Sunday school and church group. After an enjoyable potluck, Dr. Bell continued the session and we had a serious prayer time seeking to determine the Lord’s future direction for our church. Thanks to Dr. Bell for a wonderful time of teaching and leading. On Easter weekend our church, as a member of the Evangelical Churches of Swift Current, participated in a joint Good Friday worship service at the Comprehensive High School.
May God continue to guide and bless us all, whether here or in other areas of Canada, as we follow Him and carry out his charge to us to expand His Kingdom on earth. Keith Clothier
In January, David and Lorraine Dyck (back) and Ben and Marge Banman (front) joined Cornerstone Fellowship through transfer. Pastoral couple Faith and Randall Krahn stand with them.
The EMC Board of Missions is pleased to announce the hiring of Ken Zacharias as Foreign Secretary. Ken is an ordained EMC minister and served as pastor at Portage Evangelical Church from 1982 to 1985. He holds BRE and MA degrees from Providence College and Seminary. Ken and his wife Val have served with the Board of Missions as church planters in Paraguay from 1985 to 1995. Upon their return to Canada, Ken was appointed as executive director at Roseau River Bible Camp, a position he has filled to the present. Ken and Val are members of Kleefeld EMC, where Ken serves on the Missions Committee. Ken will take on his new responsibilities with the board at a time to be arranged for late 2005.
Sunday school children presented the play A Star is Born on December 21.
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THE MESSENGER
a woman s journey of faith Betty Koop
KATHERINE
L
ITTLE Katherine was awakened by the sound of the cowherd’s horn. She knew that meant her father was on his way out of the village with the cattle. She wouldn’t see him until he brought them home from the pasture in the evening. It was neat watching the cows return, with each animal knowing which yard to turn into for the night. Katherine was one of 25 children. Her father had remarried twice after his first wife died, and Katherine was born in 1898 to his third wife. Since her father was a schoolteacher in the winter and cowherd in summer, as was the custom in the early days of the Steinbach settlement, he found it difficult to earn enough to feed his large family. Therefore, when she was only eight years old Katherine was sent to work in the neighboring village of Blumenort. She was to be a babysitter, and always saw herself as a helper. She worked in various homes. Most of her employers were kind, even if she had to work hard. In one home, as she told her children many years later, she had to pile a large stack of wood before she could eat. This was a difficult, back-breaking job for such a little girl. But, with her typical attitude of always seeing the best in others, she would add that these people had only very little children and probably didn’t know how much an eight-year-old could handle. More often she told of the “good homes.” In one much-appreciated home she was treated like their own child. At another one the mistress and maid both sat down to read after working hard all day. That was special! Katherine’s joy in reading stayed with her all her life, as did the habit developed early of persevering at hard work. As one of her daughters told me, “She quickly saw what work needed to be done, and did it.” When she was given a rare dayoff, she would walk from Blumenort to Steinbach, a good five miles, to see her family. Katherine also briefly moved to Saskatchewan to live with her halfbrother. Her job was to be hoeing the garden but her interest was to hunt gophers—you got money for the tails! However, she was very homesick so far from home. At one special home, she met her future husband; he was the brother to her mistress. They were married
May 4, 2005
when she was 20 and moved to the Landmark, Man., area. These newly-weds were among the first to settle this area, working hard at draining the land and preparing it for seeding and harvesting. Just a year after their silver anniversary, more hardship came into Katherine’s life. Her dear husband suffered a stroke and lingered for just six months before he went to his eternal home. His death had a profound impact on each of the children, several of whom committed their lives to Christ by his sick bed at home. Life was hard. Not only was Katherine grieving the loss of her husband, but also she felt for her teen-aged sons as they took up the struggle of running the farm. The family pulled together to make it work, with Mom as their strong example. Katherine loved her flower and vegetable garden and it became her place of prayer. She would be up early each morning, whistling and singing as she worked. Sharing vegetables with others was a special joy. When I visited with her daughters over coffee recently, it struck me how each one had a special memory (or memories) of their busy, yet contented mother. She managed to give individual attention to each child, in spite of the never-ending work. But, as one of the daughters said, she was contented, happy, choosing not to be bitter, but to see the best in others. And, her daughter added, “she taught that to us as well.” Moving off the farm to live with her children in Hudson Bay, Sask., and then in Winnipeg, Man., must have been difficult, but again she chose to adjust. She loved to sit out in the yard and “play” with the neighbourhood children and naturally share about Jesus. They loved her. Her sense of humour seemed to enjoy the boys’ pranks, and sometimes the daughters wondered who might have instigated them! In Katherine’s last days in the hospital, she kept the nurses entertained by her quaint, amusing remarks. She would often say, “Go help the sick people, I’m all right.” Katherine was a pioneer in so many ways. We may not face the challenges of going to work at a tender age, or breaking hostile new land to begin a farm, or raising ten children without their father, but we may pioneer in our own way. Let’s check our attitudes and rise to the T challenge! M
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GERTRUDE REIMER 1910–2005
Peacefully, on April 19, 2005, with family members by her side at Rest Haven Nursing Home, our mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother Gertrude Reimer, age 94 years, was taken from us to be with her Saviour. Remaining to cherish her memory are her two sons, Ed and Betty, Dan and Martha; six daughters, Mary and Alvin Suderman, Arlene and Melvin Barkman, Helen and Bert Dueck, Sara and John Plett, Adina and Wes Plett, Norma and Ed Klassen, 22 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind two brothers, two sisters, and nine in-laws, besides numerous nieces, nephews, and many friends. She was predeceased by her husband Peter, son-inlaw Frank Braun, and two grandsons. Our mother was born on October 6, 1910, to John and Gertrude Friesen, the fifth in a family of 14 children. She grew up in Blumenort, Man., in a home where Christian values were held in high regard. She accepted Christ as her Saviour at an early age and was baptized into the Blumenort Kleinegemeinde (now EMC) church. Although life had its hardships on the family farm, there was a lot of love, unity, and care for each other. Mother received limited school education due to her being needed to help on the farm. Mother’s younger sister married a Prairie Rose fellow. They then became the matchmakers which led to our parents’ courtship, followed by their marriage on December 11, 1938. They began their married life near Mom’s parents, followed by a move into their own home in Prairie Rose. They began their lifetime of farming, first in Landmark, followed by a move to Fisher Branch in 1968. Mother enjoyed gardening and growing beautiful flowers. Summers were busy with filling many jars of vegetables and fruit. She prided herself in the many different flowers she grew; it seemed anything would grow for her indoors and outdoors. She enjoyed cooking and serving food to family, friends, and acquaintances, no matter how many were present around the table. Her many hours of preparation brought full gourmet meals of chicken dinners, lemon pie, fresh
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bread—foods that everyone in the family has raved about. Mother was not afraid to tackle any job on the farm, be it milking cows, feeding the chickens, stooking sheaves in the field, carrying many pails of water from the ditch for laundry. In spite of all this busyness, Mother would take time with her children and surprise them with tea parties and picnics. Mother always wore an apron which had many purposes, including gathering eggs, picking fruit or vegetables in the garden, shelling peas, protecting her dress, and soothing someone’s hurts. Leisure time in earlier years were spent mending and fixing clothes; later she spent time playing games with us. Now in her later years she always had a knitting project on the go. Mother enjoyed traveling, especially visiting Wes and Adina’s family in Alberta. She had a tendency to befriend people wherever they went and would keep up friendships via letters. Family has expressed how encouraging Mother was to them, both in their spiritual walk and in their career choices. She didn’t complain in her hardships, especially during the eight years that she was Dad’s caregiver after he suffered a massive stroke. She was a great example of seeing the positive in all situations—even when it meant being uprooted from her familiar surroundings. Singing was so much a part of her life, and it was also a means of being uplifted in whatever situation or circumstance she was in. Mother had a heart of service. She spent many years very involved with a ladies group working on MCC projects, and was president of this group for a time. She and Dad participated in a singing ministry for a number of years. Our mother was a very thankful person and the words “Thank you” were so much a part of her vocabulary, be it for a visit, kind word, or thoughtful deed. This was heard from her lips until she was no longer able to express herself verbally. Thankfulness was so much a part of her prayers as well. Mother was a prayer warrior until the very end. Hearing her prayers was a blessing in itself; we will miss them so much. Along with prayer, Bible reading was important to our Mother. Often when we would phone her and ask what she was doing, she would say, “I’m reading my Bible.” The Bible given to her a few Christmases ago is well worn and well read. Our mother was a very special part of our lives and we will miss her so much. She was the heart of our family! We will miss her phone calls, her encouraging words, the friendly greetings she had for us when we’d visit, and of course the Tim Horton’s coffee times we shared together. We know that she has been reunited with Dad and we are thankful that God has relieved her suffering. She has left her wheelchair behind and is now walking through streets of gold in heaven. We are assured that we will one day be reunited with her.
As a family, we would like to express our deepest thanks to you who have come to join us in celebrating her life. We would also like to sincerely thank Dr. Gordon Dyck, the staff at Rest Haven Nursing Home, pastor Barry Plett, the caregivers at Woodhaven, and all those who have touched her life in so many different ways. We know how much our dear Mother would have expressed her thanks to you once more. Thank you!
Her Family
In Loving Memory WILLIAM (BILL) FEHR July 14, 1949–May 8, 2004
The season of spring brings with it the beauty of life as trees start to bud and perennials start to sprout, the sound of meadowlarks and the return of the robins. For us it also brings back the memory of God’s plan to take you home to be with Him. Even though a year has passed, words cannot express the loss we feel, but it was God’s idea helps us face tomorrow. Lovingly remembered by Linda, Kirk, Tara, Kiernan and Emily, Tanya, Logan and Nigel, Justin and Amanda There are some things I’d like to say. But, first of all to let you know that I arrived okay. I’m writing this from Heaven where I dwell with God above, where there’s no more tears or sadness; there is just eternal love. Please do not be unhappy just because I’m out of sight; remember that I’m with you every morning, noon and night. When you are walking down the street and you’ve got me on your mind, I’m walking in your footsteps only half a step behind. And when you feel the gentle breeze or the wind upon your face, that’s me giving you a great big hug or just a soft embrace. And when it’s time for you to go from that body to be free, remember you’re not going you are coming here to me. And I will always love you from that land way up above. We’ll be in touch again soon.
THE MESSENGER
shoulder tapping Are you a church planter? Are you a visionary person with entrepreneurial abilities? Do you have a passion for God and an ability to relate to the culture around you? Are you flexible and adaptable? Perhaps God has uniquely gifted you to be a church planter. E-mail Peter and Trudy Dueck at tpdueck@mts.net to discover more about the qualifications and the opportunities for church planting in Canada.
The director will give overall leadership, overseeing a staff of about 20 missionaries. Candidates should have ministry and administrative experience. The director is expected to relocate to Thompson, Man., a city that serves as a hub for much of the mission’s activities. Contact: Mel Friesen at CMI, 159 Cree Road, Thompson, MB R8N 0C2; phone 204-778-4491; e-mail cmi@mts.net
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.
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).
Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission seeks an executive director/financial manager to serve the Burkina Faso Partnership Council. This position requires administrative skills, experience with missions in Africa, and an ability to work with expatriate and national personnel. French and English are required and Jula would be a definite asset. For information contact Len Barkman at emclen@mts.net or 204-326-6401.
Call Mennonite Disaster Service (Winnipeg, Man., office 866-261-1274) about volunteering short-term (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.
Fourteen school teachers are needed to serve in an international/national K–S4 school in Kabul, Afghanistan. The school currently has 72 students and 6 teachers, but a new campus and school are being built to accommodate more teachers and students (currently turned away). Teachers are preferred to come with support from their churches and friends. Contact Len Barkman at emclen@mts.net or 204-326-6401.
MCC Manitoba seeks an executive director qualified to provide dynamic leadership. This administrative team leader will work with staff and board to provide vision and structure to Manitoba’s program within the broader MCC context. A commitment to MCC’s mission and goals is needed. The position is in Winnipeg. For information call Ron Loeppky at 204-261-6381. Send resumes to MCC Manitoba, Executive Director Search Committee, 134 Plaza Drive, Winnipeg, MB R3T 5K9, or email to ronloeppky@mennonitecc. ca. Application deadline is May 15, 2005.
Targeting tentmakers! Are you willing to pursue your vocation in a new setting so that you can more fully use your gifts in the church? Do you have a passion to help those without hope to find Christ, and to be people of integrity in a new community? Are you a team builder? Consider the opportunities available as a tentmaker in a new church plant. E-mail Peter and Trudy Dueck for information at tpdueck@mts.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. Contact Kenton Barkman, Box 576, Riverton, MB R0C 2R0. Phone 204-378-5623 or e-mail kenton@mts.net. 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.
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, 780-928-3783. MacGregor (Man.) EMC is seeking 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. Contact Bruce Unger at 204-6853177, e-mail bruceunger@mts.net, or by mail to Pastoral Search Committee, c/o MacGregor EMC, Box 133, MacGregor, MB R0H 0R0. Continental Mission, Inc., seeks a director. Working largely with First Nations people in northern Manitoba, this 63-year-old faith mission seeks a visionary team player with a heart for Native ministry. Many opportunities for ministry exist, and the mission is ready to be taken to the next level.
May 4, 2005
Elim Mennonite Church, about 150 people in Niverville, Man., seeks a full-time senior pastor. It has active English and German ministries and a range of programs. Primary responsibilities include preaching, teaching, administration, counseling, visitation, and community and conference involvement. They seek Bible teaching, a passion for outreach and discipleship, and a desire to lead a crosscultural group. German is an asset, not a requirement. Contact Darlene Redekop, Box 1062, Niverville, MB R0A 1E0; phone 204-388-6667; or e-mail darlene_redekop@hotmail.com. MCC Canada seeks an administrative services director (60–80 percent time) with a preferred start of June 1, 2005. The director is responsible for supervision and support of building, computer and financial services; records management and the central warehouse in Plum Coulee, Man. Contact Marsha Jones at 204-261-6381; e-mail at mgj@mennonitecc.ca; or view job description at www.mcc.org/servicetree/st_frame.html. 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.
Steeprock Bay Bible Camp, near Birch River, Man., seeks counselors, cooks and especially a lifeguard. Camp runs for five weeks starting in late June. Some wages are available for counselors, lifeguard, and speakers. The handyman, who could start in June, receives room and board. The camp is geared toward First Nations people. Contact Ang Thiessen at 204-238-4244 or ang_thiessen@hotmail.com or Walter Oberlin at 204-734-4269.
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. Note: This position is open to male and female applicants.
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pages from the past Dave K. Schellenberg
Memories of the first
R
ecently I met a man who actually helped to print the first issue of The Messenger, dated January 11, 1963. That’s more than 40 years ago, and what memories the encounter evoked! I knew that Rodney Kroeker had been an employee of the shop where we printed the first years of The Messenger and so naturally our conversation revolved around this subject. But I was not aware of what would come next. He had actually had printed Volume 1, No.1. I think by then we were both a bit excited. And by this time we needed a copy of The Messenger under discussion. Fortunately, I have a set of Messengers for the 25 years I was editor and I live at Woodhaven apartments, where we met in a chance encounter. It was quite simple for me to slip upstairs to my suite and fetch the first year’s copies. You can be sure we did some reminiscing. If I recall correctly, it was already December of 1962 by the time it was finalized who the editor would be. We already had a German paper Der Christlicher Familienfreund (The Christian Family Friend), and since 1957 it had a six-page English section added in the back. We also had in English the Missions Informer, a missions paper. I believe it was God who created the desire in some of us to launch out with an all English general family magazine at this time. This was confirmed to me when I read a brief, but meaningful letter to the editor from one of our church leaders. It appeared in the third issue of The Messenger and said, “…congratulations on new English Messenger. Long overdue” (from Archie Penner, Iowa City, Iowa). Since the Christlicher Familienfreund came out twice a month, this English paper should appear on alternate weeks. That meant January 11, 1963. Well, as you can imagine, this did not leave me very much time to get the first issue together. Another problem for me was that the paper would be printed in Steinbach, and we lived in Portage la Prairie, Man., about 100 miles away. The Conference had sent us there for church planting. A church had
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been started here in the spring of 1959, and we had been there since the summer of 1959. But I took my election as from the Lord and wouldn’t let this distance deter me. Some years later we also moved to Steinbach. I think my duties usually took about the same pattern. I would go to Steinbach every other Thursday to bring the copy, stay overnight, and we would print on Friday. But you can well imagine that, once elected, I had to get busy. I cannot recall any assistance in putting those eight pages together. I think I had done some pre-planning. The first issue came out with a red cover. I believe we changed colours four times a year, but the first was red. I think this gave me the greatest concern. I believe the design came from a professional designer we likely had engaged. Anyway, I also had an assistant editor to whom I went to share this cover design, Rev. Abe Unger of Prairie Rose EMC. I think it was somewhat with a quaking heart that I made that trip to get his approval. After all we were a conservative conference and not flashy. But, bless his memory, he figured it would pass. Was I relieved! With this hurdle overcome, the venture of the EMC’s Messenger was launched. And Rodney Kroeker at Deluxe Printing, owned by the late Bill Neufeld, in Steinbach was the printer, and Rod also likely printed succeeding copies. I met Mr. Kroeker at the birthday party of his aunt, who also resides at Woodhaven. I was invited to the party, and on that occasion the aunt wasn’t the only person there who T received a present! M Rodney Kroeker stands with the January 11, 1963, initial issue of The Messenger, which he helped to print.
THE MESSENGER Evangelical Mennonite Conference 440 Main Street Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 Publications Mail Agreement #40017362 PAP Registration #9914