nofFast: ministry
Milton, now 79, has served as senior pastor in four EMC churches (Kleefeld, Swift Current, Steinbach, and La Crete) and within interim pastorates in Mount Salem, Vanderhoof, Rosenort Fellowship, Riverton, Hillside, and La Crete.
Terry M. Smith
(photos by Becky Buhler)
He and others used to think more “black and white,” without as many grey areas as today. Christ was always presented, but the Christian walk was more “legalistically” taught. As people shifted, his theology shifted with them because he had to face issues. For instance, harsh discipline wasn’t generally as effective as intended, even if motivated by a strong desire to keep the Church clean. Love and grace What comes to his mind with the word redemption? “Jesus paid it all,” he replies. Somewhere, linked to that, the motive for discipleship changed from fear to love. As a result he has often preached on grace. He found out later that his grandfather Henry R. Dyck, a minister, was “noted” for preaching THE MESSENGER March 19, 2008
messages on love when it was uncommon in the Kleine Gemeinde (early EMC). “I was always pleased to hear that I was like grandfather in my message presentation,” he says. He wants people to follow the Lord because of love, not guilt. He says that you can say strong things from the pulpit; for Milton, though, the greater sin is not to fall down, but to not get up. This shift in ministry style also reflects an inward change. When preaching, he would say, “Look, I am struggling with you. I haven’t arrived.” He still has an amazing joy in preaching, which he still does when serving Saturday Night or approached by another church. In my observation in conversation, he has a wonderful clarity of mind with clear, strong speech.
“I was always pleased to hear that I was like grandfather in my message presentation,” he says.
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