The Messenger Vol. 43 No. 17 October 5, 2005

Messenger The

EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE VOLUME 43 NUMBER 17 OCTOBER 5, 2005

exclusive holiness honouring the

sabbath

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editorials

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Considering the issues Paul faced within the Church in Corinth, is his thankfulness a bit surprising? Yet the apostle, like his Lord, had confidence in Christ’s mission and in His Church.

Did you know we have EMC believers in Corinth? Yes, in Corinth, Ontario. We can give thanks for them and for other Church of Living Water members living in and around Tillsonburg.

We can give thanks for the Church in Vanderhoof, Burns Lake, High Level, Calgary, Endeavour, Wymark, Winnipeg, Pleasant Valley, Fort Frances and Leamington. We can include “all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ—their Lord and ours” (1 Corinthians 1:2). But if the list goes on, the T space does not. M Terry M. Smith

The Commission is Great

e can’t bring in the Kingdom.

Therefore, some Christians say we should not try to influence the government or be involved in social activism.

If so, then we can also abandon our missions efforts.

The Church can’t save sinners. Jesus is the Saviour! If the Spirit of God isn’t involved in what we are doing, people will not come to the Lord, nor will society change (or be properly challenged).

Yet the Lord uses His people in many ways.

Though the Great Commission is often interpreted as involving going into all the world, making disciples, baptizing them, and having them repeat the process, there’s more. Jesus calls us to “teach them to obey everything I have taught you.”

The Commission is Great both because it is important and broad. Though it’s often interpreted as involving going into all the world, making disciples, baptizing them, and having them repeat the process, there’s more. Jesus calls us to “teach them 2

EDITOR Terry M. Smith

Thanksgiving for Corinth

ow was the Apostle Paul thankful?

For grace: “I always thank God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus.” For their response: “For in him you have been enriched in every way—in all your speaking and in all your knowledge—because our testimony about Christ was confirmed in you.”

For their giftedness and eagerness: “Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed.”

For the keeping power of Christ: “He will keep you strong to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.” For divine faithfulness: “God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful” (1 Corinthians 1:4–9).

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Messenger

to obey everything I have taught you” (Matthew 28:18–20).

Dozens of Scriptures call us to pursue social justice, as well as missions.

Which has priority, evangelism or social justice? Perhaps that’s an unhelpful question. Is any part of the Great Commission unnecessary? One should lead to the other.

The Church is not to prop up a dead system, but we are to be a pastoralprophetic community of the Way that Christ intends for all peoples. (This is neither post-millenialism nor a social gospel.)

Yes, Jesus said we are to be as “shrewd as serpents and as innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16). Sometimes in our pursuit of social justice the church errs; but, then, we do not abandon missions despite its own mixed history.

We are not to neglect “the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy, and faithfulness” (Matthew 23:23). We are to pray and live so that “Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10).

Do evangelism and social justice exhaust the Great Commission? Far from it.

T The Commission is Great indeed. 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.

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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. 19 – November 2 (copy due October 21)

THE MESSENGER

letters An emphasis proper beyond individualism I would like to thank the editors and Ron Penner for the wonderful article in the September 7 edition of The Messenger [What are the benefits of being part of the EMC?]. At a time in North America when it is common for people to think in terms of themselves alone (unfortunately, this

includes Christians), it is nice to see an emphasis placed on belonging to something bigger than ourselves—our church conference.

Our individualistic mindset has unfortunately started to erode our EM Conference as we have placed as much or more emphasis on local church autonomy than on accountability to our Conference, our fellow EM churches, and our Conference constitution.

If we are going to reverse the trend of individualism in our personal lives, and in our local church lives, then we will need a renewed enthusiasm for our Conference, and above all, the authoritative Word of God! Let’s work together as a vital EMC as we do the Lord’s will.

Matt Plett Landmark, Man.

Truth stranger than fiction It was refreshing to read Mr. Ben Eidse’s comments regarding the ongoing debate about whether Christ was truly forsaken at the cross [letter, September 7, 2005]. It seems to me that if we want to pontificate on the nature of Jesus’ words at the moment of his death, and theorize that he was simply uttering clouded emotion instead of spiritual reality, we are entering speculative territory.

October 5, 2005

God cannot separate from Himself— that to me seems to be a truism—but does forsaking necessarily infer spiritual separation? That God can and does withdraw his presence (or Spirit) from some because of sin, as in the case of King Saul, is a scriptural reality. That God forsook His Son who bore our sin on the cross portrays the antithesis between a Holy God and sin, between good versus evil, between love and hate.

These words that Jesus screamed out at the cross are not the only ones that are unsettling. In fact, I find much of what the gospel writers recorded as the words of Jesus troubling, but maybe that is the point. Truth seems to sound stranger with the passing of time, and sometimes downright anachronistic.

Truth has indeed become “stranger than fiction.”

Dale Loewen Blumenort, Man.

For the theologian and the Bible believer there is an answer. We call it a paradox.

J. I. Packer treats it as an antinomy and thus an apparent incompatibility between two apparent truths (Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God, pp. 18f).

Of the forsakenness, C. E. B. Cranfield writes, “It is, of course, theologically important to maintain the paradox that, while this God-forsakenness was utterly real, the unity of the Blessed Trinity was even then unbroken” (Cambridge Greek N.T. Commentary, p. 459).

I am also troubled with the original thought that the forsakenness is a discouragement in our suffering. If Christ’s death was a substitution for ours, which we must accept, then we agonizingly rejoice in the forsakenness of our Lord by God. Then the latter encourages.

Archie Penner Brandon, Man.

A paradox to be accepted

Prolonged discussion needs summation

Readers of The Messenger have grappled with Jesus’ words while hanging on the Cross: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Great care must be taken to guard the Word of God. As I read the comments in our paper, it seems that the question boils to a raw: Is Jesus’ statement true and factual, or is it not true as it stands? Can the literalness of Jesus be challenged? As structured both in English and in Greek, the matter seems closed. It is a statement of fact.

Can we really reduce these words to psychological meaning and conclude that Jesus believed that which is not true? That is, that he was wrong. Did indeed Christ’s suffering make Him ignorant? Have we thought through what this denial could do to our view of the rest of the Scriptures? If we can declare these words of Jesus as not true to fact, how much of His teaching can be accepted as true? Put in another way: Is there then any limit to imposing our concepts on the texts of Scripture?

In my estimation, to be true to the Scriptures, we accept that Jesus was forsaken by God. But this is not the whole of our Lord’s relation to God, at this moment. It is equally fact that He was never forsaken by God, because He was, and is, a member of the Trinity. But how can we accept such a “contradiction”?

Wow, another letter about Jesus’ forsakenness! What a prolonged discussion we’ve had on this subject and for the most part it has been congenial; people have mostly spoken their piece without any malice. It would be interesting to know when the famous article even was written and how many letters were written in response.

With so much interest in this subject I wonder if we could somehow learn something life changing from this theological conversation. I understand that the way I see G-D is the way I will respond to the world, but I’m not quite sure how this discussion will influence my response to my world.

I was very interested in the letter some time ago by Arden Thiessen about the various theories on this subject.

I wonder if he could be asked to write an article summing up all the wisdom from these letters and expound on how these strange words are a vital part of being followers of that One on the cross?

My guess is it would not be exclusiveish-ness, but would be highlighted by welcomeness, embracing, hospitality, kindness, love.

John Schlamp Winnipeg, Man.

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Finding Calm in the Chaos through an

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cientists have discovered that the part of our body that most needs sleep is our brain. They can’t seem to figure out why the rest of us needs sleep, but they are certain that our brain must have regular rest.

Now they also say North Americans are for the most part sleep deprived, and that sleep-deprived people cause as many fatal car accidents as drunk people. This would suggest that not only are we tired, dangerous people, we are functionally challenged when it comes to brain activities like thinking and decision-making. This should go a long way in explaining your (fill in the blank) husband, teenager, mother-in-law.

Worse than simply being tired, we may be what St. Augustine once described as “unquiet people.” He said they are “those who recoil from the Holy Spirit, loving quarrels, spreading slanders, keener on argument than on truth, and so in their restlessness they do not allow the quietness of the spiritual sabbath to enter into themselves” (Joseph T. Lienhard).

The ancient Israelites were an “unquiet” people.

Forever grumbling at their leaders and even God Himself they were restless, stubborn, insubmissive, and unholy. The fourth commandment strikes at the heart of their willfulness. It is an intriguing, somewhat ambiguous, and, today, often ignored command. Yet in Exodus 31:15 the penalty for the failure of an Israelite to observe it is death. Christians honour the Lord’s Day, Sunday, since the resurrection of Jesus, and have seemingly, like our culture, assigned this command to the dustbin of history.

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THE MESSENGER

exclusive holiness Rev. Rod Masterson Vital principles Could there be vital principles enshrined in this ancient command that would lead us to a greater holiness of life, a holiness characterized by a calm, centered, rest-full relationship with God, a calm in the chaos? Have we missed something critical here?

The command is simply to “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy” (Exodus 20:8).

Remembering means to “observe without lapse” or “hold as a present and continuing priority.” It is not

a day to come away from the essential but mundane tasks of earning one’s keep to refocus on the One who was the very centre of life.

The text spells out further details of this special day. It follows six days of “labour” in which the people were to “do all your work.” The Jews have struggled for years over what labour or work mean. The most obvious answer is that they were to set aside their usual work, the work of sustenance. I believe it is left vague to help avoid legalism.

The command is extended to include sons, daughters, servants, animals or outsiders. This may have shown a humanitarian concern, but perhaps was a way to close a loophole of arranging to have your usual work done by someone else. The inclusion of aliens suggests also a universal application of the principle to all people.

Christians honour the Lord’s Day, Sunday, since the resurrection of Jesus, and have seemingly, like our culture, assigned this command to the dustbin of history. merely to recall to mind, but like a man remembering his wedding anniversary, it is to take immediate and decisive action.

The word “Sabbath” comes from the Hebrew word meaning “rest, or cease” related to God ceasing from the work of creation on the seventh day. The Old Testament uses the term to describe a day of cessation or “stopping,” for religious reasons, from the normal daily routine (John I. Durham).

The idea that it was a day for mere relaxation or a day devoid of any activity was not part of the concept.

This is suggested by the phrase “by keeping it holy,” or better, “in order to keep it holy.” It was a day at the end of every week that was to be different or “set apart” for God and spiritual or religious purposes. It was October 5, 2005

A spiritual rhythm A spiritual rhythm of life is undoubtedly involved here. It is patterned after God’s six days of creation followed by a day of rest. If God could complete His work in six of the seven days in a week, then surely His people whose work was to be viewed as a continuing re-creation could do likewise. To cease from one’s usual work was to acknowledge a God-dependency, that a complete and holy life on earth would always be characterized by one day in seven be set aside for the Lord, the author of life.

Clearly this was not to be viewed as a penalty or divine imposition but rather a blessing, just as a “rest stop” during a long journey is a delightful intermission for relief from the rigours of the trip so far and refreshment for the journey that lies ahead.

If one feels he must work seven days a week to sustain himself and his family, he is denying the sufficiency of God to care for him, and, in fact, setting himself up for ultimate spiritual, physical, and emotional failure. A day of rest was and is a blessed gift of God to all of mankind. As Jesus said, “The Sabbath was made for man” (Mark 2:27).

Terrance Fretheim says that “one needs only to 5

participate for a moment in the rat race which is the modern world to realize how the neglect of the sabbath contributes to the spread of chaos. This points to something fundamental about the relationship between human endeavor and cosmic order. There is a place for human dominion within the created order (Genesis 1:28). But sabbathkeeping puts all human striving aside, recognizes the decisive role of God in creation, and provides for a weekly oasis to rest back in the arms of this reality.”

The observance of the Sabbath also pointed to the Sabbath rest that would be established in a spiritual sense in the lives of believers in Jesus as they experienced their own deliverance from the slavery of sin and rest for their weary souls in the grace and forgiveness of the Saviour (Hebrews 4:9–11). Of course, Hebrews points also to the eternal Sabbath rest for the people of God in heaven. The Sabbath then is a reminder that this life is not all there is!

Obedience today What then should constitute the essential elements of obedience to the spirit of this commandment today?

We should retain one day out of seven as a unique and special day each week for God and His purposes.

We should make every effort to avoid our usual work on that day without becoming slavish about it.

We should see it as an opportunity to restore ourselves through worship, fellowship, extra rest, and the study of God’s truth.

We should find ways to bless and encourage others on that day as Jesus did.

We should make the day fun and enjoyable for ourselves and our children like the holiday (holy day) it is.

In the ancient wisdom of God’s truth we find hope for spiritual prosperity in the chaotic rush of our lives. Godly balance and integrity are possible if we love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength by observing a T weekly day of rest. M Rod Masterson, BRE, MA, is president of Peace River Bible Institute in Sexsmith, Alberta. He has served as a pastor of Baptist, Evangelical Free, and Evangelical Mennonite Brethren churches, and as a missionarypastor in Mali, Africa.

SPECIAL MISSIONS PROJECTS Is your church or Sunday school department looking for a special missions project?

Here’s a sample of projects.

Christmas Toys (Gifts) for Children – Nicaragua Code: N1-CG Children of the Fraternity of Mennonite Churches are collecting funds to bring joy this Christmas season to under-privileged children. They want to have a Christmas fiesta (games, piñata, gifts) and share the love of Jesus. They need your help. The task is too big for them! They would like to minister to 2000 children.

Oasis Church Construction – Mexico Code: M1-OCC The Oasis congregation has erected the basic structure (sanctuary, gymnasium, and Christian Education wing).

They need approximately $90,000 to complete the inside construction. They hope to finish this in the next couple of years as funds become available. The Board of Missions approved a project of $50,000.

Syryka Church Construction – Paraguay Code: P1-ChC The Syryka congregation has grown during the last two years. They plan to build a 10 x 12 meter church building. The Board of Missions would like to contribute $2,000.

Leadership Training Centre in Orodara, Burkina Faso Code: U10-LTC The national Church has a vision to build a training centre. This would include a meeting room for larger groups, classrooms for teaching, dormitory space and a recording studio for radio programming. The project will be built in stages with a total cost will be over $50,000. EMC is setting a goal for $10,000 toward this project.

For a complete list of special projects, contact Ruth Anne Peters, EMC national office, 204-326-6401, emconf@mts.net. Please use the project code when sending cheques to the Conference office.

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THE MESSENGER

pages from the past Dave K. Schellenberg

Change and leaders who watch over our souls

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t isn’t easy to be a leader who must give account to God for the souls of others who are affected by changes that happen within the church.

During the 1930s to 1950s the winds of change were blowing through what is now the EMC. More changes and innovations likely were made during those years than in 100 years previously—changes we today take for granted.

The year 1935 saw the launching of an all-German Christian family periodical Christlicher Familienfreund (Christian Family Friend). The printed page was added to what had formerly been done primarily in churches.

The paper began as a monthly, and soon developed into an every-other week vehicle of inspiration and information.

In 1937 the Kleine Gemeinde grappled with an agenda at a historic ministerial gathering in Meade, Kansas (we had two churches in that state, in Meade and Satanta).

Of 23 points on the agenda, issues included music in the church, higher education, evangelizing, mixed bathing, photography, life insurance and women’s head covering. Historian P. J. B. Reimer refers to this conference as “taking a new look at a changing church.”

“In some cases they could not reach a unanimous decision,” Reimer says, “and had to be satisfied with a majority decision.”

The early forties saw the end of the historic bishop system of church government. Until then the four EMC churches on the so-called East Reserve in Manitoba— Steinbach, Kleefeld, Prairie Rose and Blumenort—were considered as one church with a bishop. Local church ministers could not baptize; only the bishop had this function.

During these years the ruling bishop sent a letter suggesting churches be given more autonomy to allow a local minister to function at baptismal services. As well, local churches alone would cast ballots when electing a minister to their congregation (rather than involve all four churches).

Individuals saw the need of fulfilling the Great Commission. In 1945 the first missionary from an EMC church, Susan Plett, left for foreign missions in South America. The next year saw the founding of October 5, 2005

the Western Gospel Mission, organized outside of official EMC jurisdiction, to evangelize rural areas in Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

The forties and fifties saw the beginning of the transition from German to English in worship services.

I observed this in Steinbach EMC, and imagine it was true also of other churches.

Change saw an end to use of the church’s German hymnbook Grosze Gesangbuch (Big or Old Hymnbook).

With up to 16 verses to one hymn, it was a thick book without notes that had reportedly been used for over 100 years. In 1943 a German hymnal with notes was introduced in Steinbach church. The reason: Our young people in particular had not learned the old melodies, consequently found it difficult to join in the singing, and would benefit from a book with notes.

Annual conventions began (1951). Our name changed from Kleine Gemeinde (Small Church) to Evangelical Mennonite Church (1952) and Evangelical Mennonite Conference (1959). The Conference began its own mission program (1953). The mid-fifties also saw the beginning of salaried pastors.

Another historic move for the Conference was the adoption of a written constitution. For 144 years we had operated without a formal written constitution. In 1956, after a committee of seven ministers had spent some three years on its formulation, a formal written constitution was presented and accepted.

I have mentioned some of the major changes that our Conference experienced in the 1930s to 1950s.

Perhaps we today take these changes for granted, yet in their time they, no doubt, to some appeared overwhelming.

If some changes were opposed or questioned, we should not sit in judgment of those who watched over our souls (Hebrews 13:17; 1 Peter 5:2). Rather, we need to believe that the grace of the Lord Jesus was with their spirit (Galatians 6:18). And we should thank the Lord for those who were concerned enough to move ahead carefully. And move ahead they did—hopefully, all to God’s glory.

Shall we pray that their counterparts today have the T same concern they had! M 7

with our missionaries Lesotho, Africa

Fuel fluctuations and God’s sovereignty

Alpha, Alpha, Uniform it’s 49. Alpha, Alpha, Uniform it’s 49. Alpha, Alpha, Uniform it’s 49.

This had been going on for almost an hour and I was starting to feel panic. The radio operator at the hangar was trying to reach Melvin and there was no response.

What did it mean? My imagination went wild. The last words I clearly heard him say were “the fuel flow is fluctuating again.” And then nothing.

A question people frequently ask me is: Are you afraid to send your husband off to work every day doing the work that he does?

Knowing MAF’s high standard of maintenance and the policies regarding flight time, I can honestly answer that question, “No!” I do not live in fear. In fact,

Location: Southern Africa, an enclave of South Africa Area: Land, 30,355 sq km; water, 0 sq km Ethnic groups: Sotho 99.7%, Europeans, Asians, and other 0.3%, Religions: Christian 80%, indigenous beliefs 20% Languages: Sesotho (southern Sotho), English (official), Zulu, Xhosa Population: 2,143,141 Note: Estimates for this country explicitly take into account the effects of excess mortality due to AIDS; this can result in lower life expectancy,

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I go so far as to say that I choose not to live in fear. But then there are situations like the one above which happened just this week and the fears grabs you so hard that it hurts.

The day started like any other day.

Melvin had an early flight because they were not able to complete the flights the previous day because of some mechanical problems with the airplanes.

Melvin and I shared a predawn cup of coffee before he headed to work and a little later he was off. He phoned back to ask me to flight follow and so I turned the radio on. By the time he was 20 minutes into the flight I could hardly hear him due to the static and the disturbance in the airwaves caused by the sun rise. This happens quite frequently and didn’t cause me alarm.

higher infant mortality and death rates, lower population and growth rates, and changes in the distribution of population by age and sex than would otherwise be expected (July 2000 est.) .

Age structure: 0–14 years: 40% 15–64 years: 56% 65 years and over: 4% Population growth rate: 1.65% Infant mortality rate: 82.97 deaths/1,000 live births Life expectancy at birth: 50.79 years Information from geography.about.com

But then he called saying that something was acting up in the fuel system and with communication already breaking down I started to worry. I thought I faintly heard him call a few minutes later, but I couldn’t be certain. By this time the guys were at the hangar and took over the flight following, but I kept the radio on hoping to hear something.

My thoughts were going wild and I was wondering if this had been the last morning to ever see my husband alive again. I remembered to pray and then it came to me that before I started planning a funeral, I should phone the hangar and find out if they had been able to make contact with Melvin.

When I called, Mike, the manager, reassured me that they had contacted the clinic where he was making his first stop and that he had, in fact, arrived there safe and sound and was already on his way to the next point. Whew! Thank you, God! Like I said, I do not live in fear. I cannot give way to the fear because I could not be here if I did. But moments like this are real and frightening, and I need to be honest about our situation and admit that we live in extenuating circumstances.

Our safety is at risk on so many fronts: At home, at work, on the roads and at school. Situations such as HIV/AIDS, bad drivers on the roads, strange germs/ bacteria, thieves, opportunists, weather, and customer demands all become factors in our daily welfare.

In order to be wise and vigilant we have learned to adjust our lifestyles accordingly. We need to live responsibly, and yet I find incredible comfort in knowing that my God is in ultimate control.

Our Lord is Sovereign and nothing happens outside of His will and so it is to Him that we turn to for strength and courage. Psalm 27:1 says “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?”

The Psalmist goes on to speak more of our security in the One who made us.

We want to give Him the honour and glory for our safety and we thank you for your prayers on our behalf.

Kari Peters Kari and Melvin Peters (La Crete) serve in Lesotho with Mission Aviation Fellowship.

THE MESSENGER

EMC and EMMC churches celebrate in Mexico On August 28, 2005, five EMC and EMMC churches held a joint celebration at Steinreich Bible School.

Our worship services were a great success. The worship team was made up of all the churches. Each group brought with them their own church’s favourite songs. Willie Wiebe, EMMC pastor at Camp 79, preached a powerful sermon We Are Family, Members of One Body (Acts 2:42–47).

Peter Doerksen of Oasis also preached a powerful message: One Church Equals a Powerful Church (Ephesians 2:14–22).

In the second service each church did a presentation of their congregation and programs they had available. Both services were very well attended. Many said, “We should do this again.”

I was surprised by how few people were aware that we are two conferences.

To them I don’t think it matters whether

we are EMMC or EMC. Two EMC churches are currently without a leading pastor.

The cry for labourers in the mission field is getting louder and louder. I appreciate that our conference is looking into how we can mentor disciples for the mission field.

Lunch at the celebration was a great time for our people to mingle with others from different regions in Mexico. We had hired for 300 catered meals, but we had approximately 400 show up. To our pleasant surprise the caterer had plenty of food. All the people were fed well with lots to spare. The leftovers we donated to das Kinderheim (a nearby school/ orphanage).

After the second service we had potluck faspa, if there is such a thing.

You get the picture: We had faspa (a light supper) and fellowship. At the end of the day we were all richer people. All of us

had acquired new relationships. If a man dies with nothing but one true friend, he dies as a rich person.

We were five churches: EMC from Oasis, EMC from Camp 76, Hillside Gospel Church (EMC) from Camp 306, EMMC from Steinreich Camp 79, and Evangelische Missions Gemeinde (EMMC) from El Valle. Unfortunately EMMC from Durango could not make it for this event due to the long drive. We really missed them.

John Froese EMMC pastor, El Valle

The Ebenezer Christian Church (EMC) in Brandon requires 10 to 20 folding chairs. Please contact Len Barkman at 204-326-6401.

Request Regarding Rev. Ben Froese Rev. Ben Froese, director of Steinreich Bible School (SBS) in Steinreich, Mexico, is in need of our prayers. Ben was flying a crop-duster on Saturday, September 3, 2005, when something went wrong, resulting in a nosedive into the ground.

Ben survived the crash; however, he sustained broken bones and serious internal injury. Ben is in a hospital in Juárez, Mexico, where he has undergone several operations.

Information received September 21 is that he is in intensive care and remains in serious condition. However, he is showing slight improvement. Pray for Ben’s healing and also for his family.

Further, pray for wisdom for the SBS board as this accident may affect Ben’s ability to serve as director for the next

school term beginning in January 2006.

EMC and EMMC are partners in SBS. Therefore we share the concern regarding Ben’s health and leadership of the Bible School.

We have received information that insurance will not pay for Ben’s medical costs. That means the costs will need to be paid from other sources.

Steinreich Bible School has set up a medical fund for Ben Froese.

Contributions are welcome to assist in the medical costs that Ben Froese is incurring.

Send contributions to the Evangelical Mennonite Mission Conference office at Box 52059, Niakwa PO, Winnipeg, MB R2M 5P9. Designate the gift to: Steinreich Bible School Medical Fund for Ben Froese.

Please note: Send all funds to EMMC

in Winnipeg. It will forward all funds received and will also issue a receipt for all donations to this fund.

Len Sawatzky EMMC Director of Missions Lester Olfert EMC Foreign Secretary

Ben Froese Update (Sept. 30)

Rev. David Peters, Rev. Ben Froese and his wife Tina Froese.

October 5, 2005

Ben continues to improve. His thought processes are improving. The doctors are very optimistic, and marvel at how well and quickly he is healing. It is expected that Ben will be released from hospital today to an apartment in Juarez for one or two weeks for doctors to monitor his progress. In one month he is scheduled for further abdominal surgery to reverse the colostomy. Beyond what has already been paid, $40,000 US is needed for current and future hospital costs.

The family expresses appreciation for all the prayers and support.

Lester Olfert

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stewardship today Dave Kroeker

Is seeking wealth a proper Christian vocation?

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here are various approaches to wealth in the Bible. Maybe it is enough to simply accept that all we have is a gift and it therefore matters how we use and manage our gifts.

“Misfortune pursues sinners, but prosperity rewards the righteous” (Proverbs 13:21). Clear enough, right?

Wealth is a sure sign of God’s blessing. But then we need either to allow everyone into the kingdom, since some “sinners” are wealthy, or look elsewhere for our definitions.

Jesus said to a rich young man, “Go, sell what you have and follow me.” But is it necessary to be poor to be faithful? Don’t you know poor people that are ornery, cantankerous, and ungodly?

Can both wealth and poverty be God’s blessing?

To debate is probably useless. If all we have is a gift, we will be grateful—and find ways to express it in living.

Money is not evil, but when we love our money more than we love God and our neighbours, it can be the root of all kinds of evil.

“Don’t store up treasures here on earth where they can be eaten by moths and get rusty…For where your

treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6).

Isn’t the answer really a matter of priorities? How did we gain wealth—at the expense of others? How are we using it—only where it is most satisfying to our ego?

No one, or everyone, deserves disease or poverty or health or wealth. Circumstances and choices make our lot either redemptive and healing or wounding and destructive. Paul could say after shipwrecks, beatings, robberies and humiliations: “I have learned in whatever state I am to be content” (Philippians 4:10).

The measurement, whether wealthy or poor, is not dollars and cents but to live as though all we have is a gift to be used for others. “Tell those who are rich to use their money to do good” (1 Timothy 6) and tell the widow that her two coins was a gift greater than that of the wealthy patron.

After the parable of the talents where two servants risked as they managed their gifts and where judgment falls on the servant who buried his gift and risked nothing for anybody (Matthew 25), we are given priorities for the faithful: I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.

“If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need and has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?” (1 John 3:17). The implied answer is no.

The moral issue is not wealth or poverty as much as it is priorities and the desires of one’s heart. Seeking wealth for its own sake will lead to selfishness, and taking pride in poverty will be no different except for the numbers. But the lives of wealthy and poor people will both reflect God’s grace when generosity is present and practiced.

T It depends on the slant of the heart. M For stewardship education and services, contact your nearest Mennonite Foundation of Canada office.

Abbotsford – Dave Kroeker, 888-212-8608; Calgary – Gary Sawatzky, 877-717-0708; Niagara – Darren Pries-Klassen, 888-212-8731, Kitchener – Mike Strathdee, 888-212-7759, Winnipeg – Edwin Friesen, 800-772-3257.

10

THE MESSENGER

with our churches

Purchasing livestock, a facelift at Creighton Creighton, Sask.: Greetings from the land of rocks, trees and water! All is well here at Northern Fellowship Chapel.

Marg Cone’s family held a birthday party for her at the church, and last fall we celebrated having Marg as a member of our church for 40 years.

In June former pastor Dale Warkentin and his crew came up to give us a hand.

They worked at the MB church in Flin Flon and gave our church a facelift. We now have new siding on the front.

To complete this project later many helped with lattice work, new facia, a new flower bed and flowers. The roof was even inspected. Eric Cook, Shawn Fraser, Lorne Moorhead and Michael Anderson did lots. Janice Imrie, Debbie Burman, and Margaret Moorhead helped with the flowers.

Our Vacation Bible School happened in August. We re-used our Amazing Journey program. Natalie Koop, Janice Imrie, and Deb Odegaard helped to lead, and we have many youth giving us a hand as well. Margaret Moorhead prepared many crafts and snacks. Heaven Young helped with the older group. Our attendance was approximately 30 to 35 children, and we wound up the week with a program filled with songs and a skit.

Our Sunday school program will begin after Thanksgiving this year.

Janice Imrie

Our Sunday school raised $100 for MCC. Our project was for raising cows and pigs in Vietnam.

Deb Odegaard stands with Kaylee, Karina, Morgen, Sasha, and Jeffrey.

October 5, 2005

Sandra Schroeder (Sassy Want a Lot), Pastor Scott Koop (our Scribe), and summer intern Rikki Neufeld (Murray in a Hurry) kept the children entertained during Vacation Bible School.

New members, appreciation night Crestview (Winnipeg, Man.): Over the past number of months our church has definitely been blessed with babies. What excitement that brings to our church family!

On January 30, 2005, we were able to join with Rob and Priscilla Wiebe as the stood to publicly dedicate Jesse to God. On February 27 Jeff and Betty-Anne Georgeson brought Thomas before the Lord. Then on July 10 Scott and Janet Groen chose to dedicate their three girls Michaela, Jenaya and Alexandra. What an awesome privilege and responsibility for us as a church as we stand behind each of these families in their commitments.

Our youth ministry underwent a transformation this summer as Beth Braun completed six wonderful years of

Crestview held an appreciation evening for Beth Braun (right) who served for six years. With her is Carmen Janzen.

ministry in the church and community, working with young people and families.

She brought a real depth to the Crestview ministerial and Crestview youth group and I know that she will be missed in the areas youth ministry and Crestview ministerial.

We bless Kevin, Beth, Erika, and Riley as they look for new ways to live out their faith in Christ. Thank-you, Beth and the Braun family!

Lana Knutson

On June 5 Crestview Fellowship was honoured to baptize Jonathan Beaudin (centre) and receive him into membership. Freeha Comeau (left) was received into membership through transfer. It is very exciting to see the desire of these young people to align themselves with the church in this way.

Pastor Vern Knutson stands with them.

11

Family camp, children’s ministries, neighbourhood barbecue Fort Garry (Winnipeg, Man.): What’s happening at Fort Garry EMC? School has started again! There are teachers who are teaching for the first time, children who are starting kindergarten or first grade and young people who are going into their first year of university or Bible college.

Of course, there are also the returning students and teachers. All of them need our support, encouragement and prayers.

As we look back on the past summer we remember the family camp that was held at Nutimik in June. All who attended found it enjoyable, and the highlight of the weekend was the baptism of four young people: Janna Plett, Danica Friesen, Dayna Kroeker and Noah Falk. We wish them God’s blessings as they continue their walk with the Lord.

Fort Garry had young people who attended camp and several that were counsellors in training. Families and others traveled, some right here in Canada or the U.S., some overseas. We are thankful for God’s protection during the summer.

Carrie Martens attends CMU with a major in children’s ministries. She led children’s church, teaching them about worshipping God in nature, worshipping God in music, and worshipping God in prayer. They had to be very flexible as to their meeting place because of the building going on all summer. She also evaluated the other children’s ministries.

It was great to have Carrie with us and we wish her God’s ongoing wisdom as she continues her studies.

All of us have watched the progress of the addition and renovation of the church.

Many have not only watched but have worked very hard time putting in many hours beyond their regular work. Now we look forward to using the new facilities. To God be the glory!

The annual neighbourhood barbecue was held on September 10. It’s an opportunity to invite our neighbors and friends to enjoy some time with us and to get acquainted with the church family.

It was also an opportunity to invite them to come worship, learn and develop their relationship with Jesus Christ together with us.

Children enjoyed the face painting, hair spraying (purple, red and green) and the clown who gave balloons. Of special interest was the fire engine where they could pretend to be firefighters. Also available were horse-drawn wagon rides— always a real attraction. A hearty “thank you” to each one who had a part in making this evening so pleasant.

Diana Reimer

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At Fort Garry’s annual neighbourhood barbecue held September 10, attenders had opportunity to enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides (above), the antics of a clown (right), and more.

Management Issues for Churches and Charitable Organizations A seminar for church leaders, and church board and committee members October 15, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Rosenort EM Church Rosenort, Man. October 29, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Cornerstone Fellowship Church Swift Current, Sask.

Please pre-register at the EM Conference office, 204-326-6401.

THE MESSENGER

Behold the beauty of the Lord Fort Frances, Ont.: Pastor Jeff Plett married Ben Hebert and Rachel Clink at Bethel Baptist Church in Fort Frances on July 9, 2005, at 1 p.m. Many of our church members were able to attend this happy event. The church was full to overflowing as family and friends came to say “God bless you” and congratulations to them.

1 Corinthians 13 tells us that love the greatest commandment of all.

On a hot, windy day our church held a baptismal service at Black Sturgeon Bay. The congregation and friends were urged to come to celebrate this day. Pastor Jeff Plett opened the service in prayer as he stood with his back to a beautiful lake. Facing Jeff, people attending sat in their lawn chairs on a small hillside.

It was a most unusual service as it was held outdoors. However, I am sure that everyone had the same thoughts as I did; I sat there glorifying God as I noticed his wonderful creation around me.

Laural Ann Plett with her guitar and Melanie Plett opened with wonderful songs that we sang. Then the four people to be baptized shared their testimonies: Scott and Stacy Gosman, Chris Plett, and Kevin Plett. I saw many tears as these young people told of how they found Jesus as their personal Saviour and what he meant to them.

Pastor Jeff talked about The Meaning of Baptism, and then the four were asked to come to the front, where Jeff questioned them about their commitment to Christ.

All four were baptized in the lake. Romans 6:4 says, “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”

Later on, children swam in the lake and played in the sun. A lunch of hot dogs, salads, and desserts was served. Pastor Jeff’s mother Helen and two nieces, Chloe and Colby, were able to attend this special event. Congratulations to Scott, Stacy, Chris and Kevin. May God always be close to you!

Irving D. Larson said, “The Word of God encourages us to behold the beauty of the Lord. This is more than just seeing the loveliness of His handiwork, and his creation. It is seeing the beauty of the Lord himself. When we can say that like the psalmist, that the Lord is our Light and our Salvation, and when we know a fellowship with Him on the basis of His atoning sacrifice, then we shall indeed be able to “behold the beauty of the Lord.”

Evelyn Hicks

coming events October 15 Management Issues for Churches and Charitable Organizations Rosenort EMC Rosenort, Man. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

204-326-6401 October 18–19 Canadian Mennonite University J. J. Thiessen Lectures Curiosity: Towards a Theology of Intellectual Appetite Speaker: Paul J. Griffiths Winnipeg, Man. 877-231-4570 October 19–21 Winnipeg Prophecy Conference The Ancient Book for Modern Times Victoria Inn Winnipeg, Man. 204-888-7270 or 204-853-7786 www.wpgpc.org October 20 Song of the Soul Eden Health Care Services Fundraising Banquet Steinbach Mennonite Church Steinbach, Man. 866-895-2919 edenfdn@valleycable.com October 21–24 Ministering with the Emerging Church Speaker: Dr. Gary Collins Providence Seminary Otterburne, Man. 204-433-7488 ext. 258 www.prov.ca October 27 Song of the Soul Eden Health Care Services Fundraising Banquet Bethel Mennonite Church Winnipeg, Man. 866-895-2919 edenfdn@valleycable.com

On July 17, 2005, Scott and Stacy Gosman, Chris Plett, and Kevin Plett were baptized

by Pastor Jeff Plett (centre). All four are Jeff and Laural Ann Plett’s children (Scott by marriage).

October 28 Song of the Soul Eden Health Care Services Altona EMMC Altona, Man. 855-895-2919 edenfdn@valleycable.com October 29 Managament Issues for Churches and Charitable Organizations Cornerstone Fellowship Church (EMC) Swift Current, Sask.

204-326-6401

The congregation gathered on the shore of Black Sturgeon Bay.

October 5, 2005

November 20 International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church More than Conquerors www.idop.ca 905-479-5885, ext. 234

13

CLAYTON LEROY SCHARFENBERG 1926–2005

It was our privilege to surround Leroy during his final hour in the Yorkton Hospital, and with singing and prayer release him into the arms of Jesus our Saviour, at 7:25 a.m., August 11, 2005.

Leroy was born in a log cabin, December 16, 1926, near Endeavour, Sask., to Herman and Hazel Scharfenberg, the second of 12 children. A favourite memory of childhood was singing with siblings.

Leroy logged for The Pas Lumber Company in Saskatchewan and Prince George, B.C., for 19 years with several brothers. Summers were spent breaking land with a Cat around Endeavour.

Baptized in infancy (United), Leroy was confirmed as an Anglican at age 26. His uncle Arthur, a Baptist missionary, prayed for the message of salvation to reach the Scharfenbergs. In 1960, an evangelistic outreach was begun and the Scharfenbergs became involved musically. Virgil, a younger brother, led the way in living for the Lord.

Leroy eagerly accepted Jesus as his Saviour in November 1964, through the ministry of Rev. Reginald Greenway (Canadian evangelist/musician). Thirteen first-time decisions were made and all began worshipping at the Endeavour Fellowship Chapel.

Minna Plett (Blumenort EMC) taught DVBS locally in the summer of ’64. She and Leroy were immediately attracted to each other and shortly before Christmas were engaged.

April 2, 1965, Leroy was baptized upon confession of faith by Pastor Edwin Wright, becoming a charter member of Endeavour EMC along with Minna. They were married in Blumenort EMC, April 24, setting on a farm in Endeavour.

They wintered in Prince George, where Leroy continued logging for six years, while farming in the summer. Despite 39 years of bachelorhood, Leroy loved children and, to their delight, they had one son and two daughters. Leroy worked for various logging contractors (Endeavour/Hudson Bay) for 12 years when the children entered

14

school. They owned five quarters of land and ran a dairy operation.

Family highlights were camping in Banff and Prince Albert National Parks, picnics at harvest time, singing together, firesides, and attending all church events together.

In 1986, Leroy’s lungs, infected with farmer’s lung, flared into chronic asthma.

Throughout the next 19 years he was hospitalized repeatedly. His three-wheeler served him faithfully, replacing his legs when breathing grew difficult. His train set and collections of coins, stamps, rocks and lighters kept him busy. He enjoyed tinkering and lovingly restored a Model T. Leroy was gifted in children’s ministry, enjoyed singing in choirs, and willingly filled positions as needed in the Chapel for 35 years. The church failed to attract strong leadership, so due to a lack of pastoral care and worsening health problems they chose to worship with Pastor Barber and Charles Price (via satellite) for the last several years.

We’ll never forget the joy Leroy expressed to us when he completed reading his Bible last year. His prayer life soared as he and Minna shared many precious hours reading devotional books together.

Leroy and Minna celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary quietly with local family and friends this spring. Leroy’s pride and joy were his five grandsons.

We already miss his teasing, concern for our needs, and his warm hugs. We rejoice that he is eternally free from pain, suffering and weariness, and is finally breathing the fresh pure air of Heaven with ease.

Leroy leaves to mourn his beloved wife Minna; son Arlin (Lorilee), Riley, Evan and Bobby of Morris; daughter Eunice (Randy) Schneider, Brenden and Tyler of Regina; and daughter Eileen of Winnipeg.

Rev. Dave Wiebe (Tillsonburg) officiated at the funeral, August 14, 2005, at Evangel Tabernacle (Preeceville, Sask.).

His Family

21st Annual EMCup Hockey Tournament

Survey Says…

A national theology survey is coming to an EMC congregation near you. In October or November 2005, a random selection of adults who attend EM churches will take place.

The purpose is to find out where the theology of our conference is at. In July 2005, EMC pastors and deacons filled in the forms (it takes about 20 minutes) at the conference ministerial, and now it is your time to give your input.

The survey is distributed by the Evangelical Anabaptist Committee, which was endorsed by the EMC Conference Council to promote our Evangelical Anabaptist faith within the conference. The survey is not balanced or designed to give equal emphasis on all areas of our faith.

Instead, it is focusing on particular areas at this point. The results should be available in early 2006.

For the one in ten EMCers who will take part in the survey, thanks. To the rest, we will inform you of the final results. We believe that this survey will help us better understand our grassroots beliefs and allow us to better focus our energies as we all promote our faith.

Kenton Penner, Chairman Evangelical Anabaptist Committee Board of Church Ministries Board of Ministers and Deacons

SBC offers Intro to Psychology I November 14 – December 21

Monday & Thursday 7–10 pm Weekend Counselling Course

“Dealing with the Demonic” November 17-19, 2005

Thursday & Friday evening 7–10 pm Saturday 9 am – 4 pm

November 11–13, 2005, at Steinbach, Man. There is room for 20 teams.

Interested churches can contact Russ Dyck at 204-326-6503.

For more information contact Christal Penner 204-326-6451•800-230-8478 admissions@sbcollege.mb.ca www.sbcollege.mb.ca

THE MESSENGER

shoulder tapping Executive Position A church planting director is required for the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. The position requires a passion for church growth and development. The Director will work closely with regional churches to encourage and initiate new church plants. Strong written and oral skills are essential. This is a .5 position. For a job description and information, please contact the office at 204-326-6401 or e-mail emconf@mts.net.

Anola Fellowship Chapel (EMC) seeks a full-time pastor to bring solid leadership and teaching to our church family of approximately 130 people. This person will help equip the people in our church family to reach out in their area of influence and lead others to Christ. AFC is a rural church located 25 minutes east of Winnipeg and is comprised of people from diverse cultural and church backgrounds. Contact Orville Friesen at 204-371-9922 or ofriesen@nutrihealthgroup. com.

Mount Salem EMC in southern Ontario seeks a full-time senior pastor. Education flexible and some pastoral experience preferred. Services are in English. Attendance is around 150 with much room and potential for growth. The pastor will work with two lay ministers and two deacons.

Contact Isaak Fehr at 519-773-2564 or Bill Siemens at bhsiemens@sympatico.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 306-5473383 or tdpromise@sasktel.net.

Winkler Bible Camp seeks a full-time discipleship director who is passionate about discipling and teaching young adults (ages 18–25) over an eightmonth period as a part of the post-secondary discipleship ministry of WBC. The Cross Current Discipleship Program strives to be a balance of academic and practical learning. Gifts in teaching, shepherding and administration as well as postsecondary training are preferred. Contact Dale Wiebe at 204-325-9519; fax 204-325-0091; e-mail crosscurrent@winklerbiblecamp.com; check our website at winklerbiblecamp.com; or Box 2340, Winkler, MB R6W 4C1.

Crestview Fellowship (EMC) seeks a parttime youth director with a strong personal spiritual foundation who is able to build strong relationships with youth. Must have the ability to work alongside a team of youth sponsors in discipling youth, and be creatvie and energetic in planning regular Bible studies and organizing fundraisers. Contact Pastor Vern Knutson at 204-837-9490. Resumes can be forwarded by e-mail to finkswpg@mts.net or by mail to Crestview Fellowship, c/o Christine Fink, 271 Hamilton Ave., Winnipeg, MB R2Y 0H3.

October 5, 2005

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.

Inner City Youth Alive, a Christian ministry in the North End of Winnipeg, Man., seeks a workshop program director (full-time, permanent with support-raising required). Fax resume to 204582-4729; mail to ICYA, 418 Aberdeen Ave., Winnipeg, MB R2W 1V7; or e-mail icya@mts. net. Pastoral reference required.

Kleefeld EMC, a church of about 300 members in Kleefeld, Man., is seeking an associate pastor.

The primary focus would be to work with the youth program in a discipling and mentoring capacity, involving youth and youth workers.

This position would also include one other major involvement—depending on the applicant’s giftedness—such as Christian Education resource, music ministry, etc. We are looking for a leader to join us in catching the vision and excitement of a growing church community. Send resumes to Ron Harder, Box 4, Kleefeld, MB R0A 0V0; e-mail kemc@mts.net; phone 204-377-4248.

High Level Christian Fellowship (EMC) welcomes applications for full-time pastor to our church. We are a congregation (average attendance 150) of diverse and multi-cultural people located in a thriving community in northern Alberta. Expectations of education and experience are flexible. To find out more about our community and church, contact Doug LeMoal at 780-926-4679 or lemoal@telusplanet.net or; Marie Derkson (church secretary) at 780926-4177 or hlcf2sec@telus.net; www.town. highlevel.ab.ca.

Roseau River Bible Camp (CSSM), in southern Manitoba, seeks a camp director to start immediately. Qualifications: managerial experience, strong background in Christian camping, proven record of staff and volunteer recruitment, ability to program events, work well with the public and have maintenance skills. The ministryminded leader is to have a vision for future programs and facilities.

RRBC has a strong summer ministry to children and youth, and a retreat ministry throughout the year. Annual salary is negotiated. Send applications (official form available) and resumes to CSSM Ministries (MB Branch), Attn: Director, 200-189 Henderson Hwy. Winnipeg, MB R2L 1L7.

Phone 204-668-2776, fax 204-667-1496, Email mb@cssm.ca.

MCC Canada seeks a director of communications (Winnipeg), to be salaried between .8 and 1.0 FTE. The director leads

staff in the department. Previous experience in journalism or public relations required. All MCC workers are to be committed to personal Christian faith and discipleship, active church membership, and nonviolent peacemaking.

Contact Marsha Jones at 204-261-6381 or mgj@mennonitecc.ca. Job description at www. mcc.org.

A registered nurse is needed for Lucero Hospital in Paraguay. The 12–bed hospital is operated by Tres Palmas EMC and ministers to a multicultural population (Guaraní/Spanish, Indigenous, Brazilian, German). A minimum four-year commitment is required; the first year involves Spanish language studies in Edinburg, Texas.

Inquiries and application should be made to EMC Board of Missions. Contact Ken Zacharias at 204326-6401, emconf@mts.net.

MacGregor EMC is looking for a youth pastor with a love for God and students to serve approximately 30 junior and senior high youth and their friends of our church family. This is a new, currently half-time position for our church; however, we would assist the leader in finding suitable complementary work. Contact Bruce Unger at bunger@mpi.mb.ca or send your resume to Box 133, MacGregor, MB ROH ORO. Leamington EMC is seeking a senior pastor (to start January 2006) or an interim pastor (who could start January 2006 for six to twelve months, should a senior pastor not be found). We have a Low German and English worship service. We are looking for someone who has experience leading as a senior pastor; education is flexible.

Salary meets conference guidelines and housing is available. Please contact Andy Fehr at 519-7379281 or Abe Klassen at 519-816-1840.

Red Rock Bible Camp, a Christian camp in Manitoba, seeks a year-round assistant cook. Willing to train. Responsible to the food services director. Agreement with the camp’s mission and statement of faith is necessary.

Must be service oriented, work well with people, and be a team player. Housing, partial board, salary, medical and dental benefits provided.

Send resume to Red Rock Bible Camp, 204320 Main St., Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z1; E-mail: kim@redrockbiblecamp.com.

Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship (EMC) in northcentral British Columbia seeks a half-time associate pastor of youth with a love for God and heart for youth. The leader will give mature leadership, work with church in moulding youth, guide them into becoming faithful followers of Jesus Christ, and work within the EMC statement of faith. Our Sunday morning attendance is 100.

Our youth group (without a youth pastor for some time) is rebuilding, currently 12 to 20 people, with an average age of 14. There is potential for growth. Phone 250-567-9198; fax 250-567-2064; vcfemc@telus.net.

15

a woman s journey of faith Betty Koop

why

Anne: Farther along we’ll understand

T

he garden was peaceful and quiet in the late August sunshine. Anne felt its peace filling her as she tended her fragrant flowers. Then she quickly moved on to picking the vegetables that would brighten her cellar shelves in the cold winter days.

As she worked in the warm sun, Anne hummed her favourite song: Farther along, we’ll know all about it; Farther along, we’ll understand why. No, she could not understand why her little Grace had been born with a congenital anomaly of the skull, which made it impossible for the baby’s soft spot to completely close and protect the brain.

Grace had been born in August. The doctor had held out little hope for long-term survival, so Anne lovingly cared for her at home. She followed the doctor’s instructions carefully. Every day Anne would bathe little Grace’s scalp with warm olive oil, cover the soft area with cotton batting and put a bonnet over that. What a joy to cuddle her lovely little girl with that beautiful hair curling around her tiny face!

Anne was no stranger to heartache. She had lost her first child Marion to pneumonia at the age of three months and her second child Johnny to an inflammation of the lungs at two and a half years of age. So it was a struggle to accept that little Grace (her fourth baby) might also be taken from her.

Stanley, her third child, was doing well and Anne was very thankful. But she had to work hard to cling to her faith that God was a loving, caring God. After about a month in their home, little Grace went to her eternal home. “The Lord gave strength,” Anne said to me. He blessed her with a beautiful vision where she clearly saw little Grace running around, picking lovely white flowers. The brightness all around was indescribable—so peaceful. Anne was assured that her little girl was much better off now.

About five years later, she suffered the traumatic experience of losing a healthy, growing child to crib death.

When she went awaken young Arnold from his afternoon

PAGE 16

nap to feed him, his life was gone. Then, a few years later, baby Gerald was stillborn. Farther along… we’ll understand why. Was that really true?

But God also gave Anne and her husband seven healthy children. They could not replace the ones that were gone, but they were truly a blessing and still are.

When I visited with Anne recently, I was amazed at this tiny but energetic woman whose life was being lived as praise to God, even at age 89.

In her apartment block she is known as the “flower lady.” Both her apartment and the lounge demonstrated the appropriateness of this name.

It was evident that she was closely involved in the lives of her children and grandchildren.

Her bed was stacked with piles of quilts, some tropical weight for distribution through MCC, some heavier for local distribution to the needy. She had quilted some; others were tied.

(If you don’t know what a tied blanket is, just ask any grandmother near you.)

It requires a lot of work to finish one blanket, let alone the many Anne produces.

More grief came into her life when her husband of 58 years passed away in 1993 and, more recently, when her oldest son died. But she seems to have chosen to live in the sunshine as her favourite song puts it. Life is too short to spend time feeling sorry for oneself.

Faithful till death, said our loving Master, A few more days to labour and wait.

Toils of the road will then seem as nothing As we sweep through the beautiful gate.

Farther along, we’ll know all about it T Farther along, we’ll understand why (W. B. Stevens). M

THE MESSENGER Evangelical Mennonite Conference 440 Main Street Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 Publications Mail Agreement #40017362 PAP Registration #9914