THE
MESSENGER
a publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference
volume 46, number 16 September 17, 2008
full flame Keeping the Church in
www.emconf.ca/Messenger
editorials
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Front and back door change
hat does a national ministerial do when its members sometimes disagree? For instance, in 1987 our EMC ministerial discussed marriage, divorce, and remarriage. Members agreed on the sanctity of marriage and the tragedy of marriage breakdown; they disagreed on whether the Bible permits any remarriage after divorce. As a result, no official position was taken on remarriage. By default, then, ministerial members and congregations were left to make their decisions without collective insights. Change In a covenant occurred through the back door: community, openly Local churches act now in the absence of a collective position. discerning together Another instance: The EMC’s if or when change history of evangelism shows change both by the back door is needed seems and front door. Early Anabaptist preferable. evangelism turned into the Kleine Gemeinde’s stance of the quiet
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The churches we form
sometimes ask Ward Parkinson, our EMC church planting coordinator, “How many churches are we planting this week?” He is always wise in his response. Our Board of Leadership and Outreach’s church planting task force is active and our Board of Missions advertises itself as a church planting mission. Does it mean we are developing churches that are selfgoverning, self-supporting, and self-propagating? This classic definition is, of course, inadequate. By it, our EMCplanted churches could be Lutheran or Methodist, Baptist or Presbyterian in teaching, form, and function. Our conference, in its work near and far, is properly concerned about planting more churches. Yet, we need to
Our conference is properly concerned about planting more churches. Yet, we need to be concerned as well about the sorts of churches we plant. THE MESSENGER is the publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. It is available to the general public. Its purpose is to 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 EDITOR ASSISTANT EDITOR are welcomed. Unpublished material is Terry M. Smith Rebecca Buhler not returned except by request. Views and tsmith@emconf.ca rbuhler@emconf.ca opinions of writers are their own and do Address changes and submissions to The Messenger not necessarily represent the position of the Conference or the editors. should be sent to messenger@emconf.ca THE MESSENGER is published twice a month (once a month in July and August) MESSENGER SCHEDULE: by the EMC Board of Church Ministries, 440 No. 18 – October 15 Main St, Steinbach, Man. (copy due October 3)
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in the land, and then returned to an active missionary stance. The EMC Statement of Faith, Church Practices, and Constitution have sometimes been changed by collective decision making at ministerials and conference council meetings (front door change) partly because of changes that were occurring (back door change). Change is difficult to prevent and tricky to manage. Which is more desirable, change by the front door or the back door? In a covenant community where we are to give and receive counsel (as Rebecca Buhler said in the July 30 issue), openly discerning together if or when change is needed seems preferable. In some cases, does this mean officially allowing local churches to make decisions that other congregations might decide differently? Does this mean allowing a local T option in some situations? M Terry M. Smith
be concerned as well about the sorts of churches we plant. We do well to consider carefully their mission, teaching, and incarnation of theology. Suppose we said: Evangelical Anabaptist churches are to be Christ-centred, Bible-believing, covenanting communities that are socially engaged, holistic in emphasis, and challenging to society. There would be a lot to unpack, discuss, and decide within those phrases. As seminary professor Scot McKnight has said, “The gospel we preach shapes the kind of churches we create. The kind of church we have shapes the gospel we preach” (A Community Called Atonement, Abingdon, 2007). Then, too, we want to develop more leaders. How do our leaders determine the shape of our churches? How do our churches determine the shape of our leaders? Perhaps my question to Ward Parkinson needs to become, “What sort of churches are we planting this T week?” M Terry M. Smith 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. Subscriptions are purchased by the Conference for members and adherents. THE MESSENGER is a member of Meetinghouse and Canadian Church Press. Second-class postage paid at Steinbach, Manitoba. ISSN #0701-3299 PAP Registration #9914
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Publications Mail Agreement #40017362 We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada, through the Publications Assistance Program (PAP), toward our mailing costs. Mailing information: Undelivered copies, change of address and new subscriptions, should be addressed to: 440 Main St, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 Phone: 204-326-6401, Fax: 204-326-1613
MESSENGER
On-line edition available at www.emconf.ca/Messenger
THE MESSENGER September 17, 2008
letter What does God deserve? I imagine, by now, many readers are tired of the back-and-forth opinions regarding how we dress for church. However, I feel compelled to point out the two sides of the argument tend to focus either on what God expects or what God accepts. Perhaps we should just ask ourselves “What does God deserve?” We are not going to church as a favour to God; He has provided the Church as a favour to us. Do our attitudes, actions, and appearances reflect that? When others see or experience God through observing or interacting with us, do they see a God that deserves the best we have, or a God that gets what we feel like giving? I believe it’s quite logical and quite biblical to conclude that God deserves
our best—and I believe that includes at church. For some, the best they have will be a suit and tie; for others the best they can offer is a freshly washed shirt and clean pair of jeans. It may mean showing up in work clothes because even though you’re on-call, you chose to come to church. My father has often quoted one of his mother’s favourite Norwegian sayings, which translates as “God accepts me at my worst, but deserves me at my best.” If we can look in the mirror before we walk out the door Sunday morning and honestly say, “God, this morning I offer you my best attention, gifts, appearance, and attitude,” then I think there is very little left to argue about. Allan G. Lie Steinbach, Man.
2008 Peace Sunday Packet available on-line
Teams contact Colin Loewen, caloewen@mts.net or 204-346-1380.
Bible Tour March 29–April 7 Have you wanted to see the land of the Bible up close and personal? Consider the Israel 2009 Biblical Discovery Tour that is being planned for March 29–April 7, 2009.
return, transfers and assistance upon arrival, hotel, two meals daily, modern airconditioned tour bus, admission to various sites.
Hosted by Pastor Dale Dueck (Winkler EMMC), you will experience many sites read about in the Scriptures.
There are incidental tour costs which can be explained when you call for information (204-325-7667 or pastordale-wemmc@ mts.net).
Tour base price of $2,749 CAD includes non-stop airfare from Toronto to Tel Aviv
THE MESSENGER September 17, 2008
Ewert Fisher to head MCC Saskatchewan Claire Ewert Fisher has been named executive director of Mennonite Central Committee Saskatchewan, effective September 1. Ewert Fisher and her husband Garth are co-pastors of Mennonite Churches in Herschel and Fiske, Sask., a position they have filled since 1999. Originally from Claire Ewert Fisher the Rosthern, Sask., area, Ewert Fisher has extensive experience in the ministries of MCC, conference boards, and committees. Her MCC assignments have included Viet Nam (1973–1975), Winnipeg with MCC Canada (1975–1976), Thailand (1985) and the Philippines (1986– 1990). She holds a Master of Divinity degree (Lutheran Theological Seminary in Saskatoon). MCC
MCC Canada encourages Canadian Anabaptist congregations to observe Peace Sunday in early November, preferably just prior to Remembrance Day. MCC’s Peace Sunday Packet On Earth as in Heaven—Praying for Peace is intended to help you prepare a worship service, and to plan special activities for families and youth groups. The packet is available on-line at www. mcc.org/peacesunday. A new addition this year is a video presentation that can be incorporated into the worship service or used in another setting. Peace Sunday is an annual opportunity to preach, teach, and reflect upon the gospel of peace proclaimed and embodied by Jesus Christ. At a time of year when our nation honours military service, Peace Sunday reminds us of Jesus’ call to love our enemies, to resist evil nonviolently, and to live as people of peace. MCC
EM Cup Hockey Tournament November 7–9, 2008
Letters to the Editor Letters published are generally to comment on issues raised in The Messenger. Letters by hand or fax require a handwritten signature. All letters require a name, an address and a phone number. Letters can be edited for length, clarity, legality, and taste. The focus of letters is to be on an issue, not a personality. All publication of letters is subject to the policy approved January 2002 by the EMC Board of Church Ministries.
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Convention 2008
full flame Four of Four
Keeping the Church in
Dr. Grant C. Richison
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he good is often the enemy of the best. We clutter up our minds with things that are good, but have little room left for the best. If we jam our minds with the mediocre, it may not be vulgar, it may not be coarse, but is it the best? In computers, we use a method called formatting. We format the margins, font, and size of page. Formatting gives definition to the document we produce. Most of us live with little definition and for no ultimate priority. By formatting our lives we put priority on the things of greatest value. If we do not format our lives we will write aimlessly over the pages of life. Paul prays to put priority on three things of greatest value in Philippians 1:9 to 11.
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Priority on God’s love And this I pray. We come to one of the splendid prayers of the apostle Paul. We can detect the deficiencies of the saints in this prayer. To put it another way, we see his concern for their lack of proper priorities. Paul’s prayers are never perfunctory but always pertinent to the situation. They are very suggestive and never superficial. This prayer has the very whiff of heaven. Paul’s prayers are a high water mark of spirituality in the New Testament. A person ought to be at their best when at prayer. That your love. Paul prays that the Philippians put priority on three things. First, he prays that they would demonstrate a biblical love (1:9). The Greek word for love here means divine, self-sacrificing, one-way love that is free to relate. It is divine because God produces it, not us. It is self-sacrificing in that I am not looking for something for myself. It is one-way in that my love does not depend on the reciprocity of the person to love me back. It makes no difference whether that person appreciates me, or whether they understand what I have done for them. One-way love means that I love them on the basis of my character, not on the basis of my feeling. I love on the bedrock of what God has done for me. My love is also free to relate. It makes no difference if they violate me. I am free from soul THE MESSENGER September 17, 2008
kinks of bitterness, sour grapes, jealousy, resentment, implacability, hostility, anger. This kind of love needs formatting. It will not come automatically. May abound still more and more. Paul prays that this kind of love will “abound.” It is one thing to have love; it is yet another to have abounding love. Our love needs enlargement, a love that dominates our lives. Paul says this abounding love is to have exuberance—“more and more.” Paul prays that their love would go beyond abounding love. This exuberant love is not anemic love, but a dynamic, poignant, powerful love.
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Love with two characteristics With knowledge and all discernment. Dynamic love is not complete without two norms: knowledge and discernment. Love grows best with knowledge. A flighty, romantic, impulse love is not God’s love. Love in God’s economy goes beyond emotion. God’s love is no mawkish, maudlin, saccharin love about the little orphan who her lost doggy. Authentic love loves on the basis of substance or content. Secondly, love needs judgment. The idea of judgment is discernment. Discernment calls for practical application of knowledge specialized to needs in particular people. Priority of values That you may approve. The second priority is that we will live by a scale of values both in the near and far terms until Christ comes again. The Greek word approve means test for approval. The word was used for assaying metals and coins. The assaying process determines whether the metal satisfies specified standards. God wants us to have a criterion for whatever comes into our lives; that criterion is “excellence.” Things that are excellent. Here excellent means to operate by a scale of values. We should be able to test for approval what is most valuable in life. No one operates adequately without a scale of values. Where there is no scale of values, there is utter confusion; we would live in daze without a sense of what is important. Imagine trying to live in a world where everything is equally important! How we use our time depends on what is important. We need to distinguish between the things that differ, not the things that oppose. It requires no keen insight to distinguish between what opposes. The emphasis here is not between what is good and bad, but between what is good and better. That is, we need to determine that which “transcends.”
THE MESSENGER September 17, 2008
It is one thing to have love; it is yet another to have abounding love. Our love needs enlargement, a love that dominates our lives.
Priority of eternal values Now we come to the far or remote priority. Paul prays that the Philippians will annex two characteristics to excellence by the time Christ comes, “that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ” (1:10c). The first quality to annex to excellence is sincerity. Sincere comes from two Greek words: sun and to judge. The idea is to judge by the light of the sun used in the selling of pottery. People would fill cracks of a jar with wax then paint over it and sell the jar as new. The way to tell if the jar was broken was by holding it up to the sun. If light came through, they knew that it was a defective jar. We need to determine whether our lives pass the test when holding them up to the Word of God. God wants us transparent with nothing to hide. A sincere person is unmixed, pure, unsullied. He is genuine with nothing to hide. The second evaluation Jesus will make of us when he comes again is to determine whether we are “without offense.” When we put priority on the 5
things of greatest value, we keep our reputation intact. The extent of putting priority on the things of greatest value is until “the day of Christ.”
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Conclusion We have the idea, “Tomorrow is God’s; today is mine.” Is not today God’s? If it is God’s, then we should format our lives accordingly. We establish the priorities God has for us and do not wander aimlessly over a faceless T terrain. M
The extent of putting priority on the things of greatest value is until “the day of Christ.”
Being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ for the glory and praise of God. The third point for which Paul prays is that God would do something in our lives to make a difference. The Greek indicates “being filled with the fruits of righteousness” is something Christians receive, not something they do. Notice that this fruit comes “by Jesus Christ” for he produces this fruit. Such inner qualities are evident to others and magnifies God, not self.
Dr. Grant C. Richison, our Convention 2008 speaker, is a theologian, speaker, and writer with Campus Crusade for Christ. He is the former long-term pastor of Grant Memorial Baptist Church (Winnipeg, Man.). Dr. Richison resides in Florida.
EMC Convention messages by Dr. Grant C. Richison Can be heard ON-LINE at www.emconf.ca. Inspirational sessions are also available in a four-CD set, $10 per set (to cover the cost of production). To order e-mail info@emconf.ca or call Ruth Anne Peters at 204-326-6401.
What motivates you? Catherine Thiessen
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’ve had many, many firsts in my life. First of all, I’ve been in front of many different congregations, many different kinds of groups, but a group of this nature is a first for me. I’ve never been in front of this kind of group before. I’ve also been behind many different pulpits. Actually I like them high enough so I can read my notes without doing this [raising them closer to her face], I like them big enough that I can hide behind them and also strong enough that I can lean on them—where they give me a lot of support. And most pulpits don’t serve all these purposes and neither does this one [a small lectern]. So I don’t know how many of you watched the Olympics last month, 6
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nor how you responded to what happened. I didn’t watch much of those because I was at camp most of that time. But the little bit that I did watch, I came up with one question: What is motivating the athletes to do what they are doing? Well, I’m sure that their main motive was to get the gold, and some even said, “I want to win the gold for my country.” I questioned that comment because probably more than any thing they wanted the honour and the praise and the recognition for themselves. And then out of the thousands that participated, we all know that only a few walked away with that gold. What happened to the others? Some rejoiced with the winners; others walked away very disappointed. And
What is motivating the Olympic athletes to do what they are doing? Well, I’m sure that their main motive was to get the gold. THE MESSENGER September 17, 2008
some were frustrated, some were angry, and some in tears. Now what motivates them to continue spending thousands of dollars, years of discipline, training, body building, overcoming injuries, and other obstacles? Well, actually, I have really a very small idea of what it is like. But I think the apostle Paul would call it selfish ambition. Then I have a question: what has motivated me to continue in ministry? What has motivated you? Paul writes in 2 Corinthians about his motives. He shares that his ministry is not easy, not in his circumstances. He writes in 2 Corinthians 4:8-10, “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down but not destroyed. We always carry about in our body the death of Jesus.” Not an easy ministry. And also in chapter 5 he writes about his motives in his ministry. In 5:11 he says, “Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, and we persuade men.” I know what it is to fear the Lord, and we try to persuade them. One of the other texts says “I know the terror of the Lord.” In 5:14 he says “for Christ’s love compels us.” Christ’s love compels me. Christ’s love controls me. Now how these two opposite emotions—fear and love—have room in the same heart is difficult to understand. I won’t go on comparing that today because John also says there is no fear in love. Shall we go on with Paul in Second Corinthians. A few verses down we see Paul had a real feeling of responsibility and obligation. In verse 18 of that same chapter: “All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors.” Christ gave us the ministry of reconciliation. He has committed to us this message. We are, therefore, Christ’s ambassadors—a privilege, but at the same time a great responsibility and obligation. Then in chapter 6 he continues about his hardships. He writes, “As servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships, distresses, beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger; in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love.” In all that suffering he kept on going “in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love…in the power of God.” That’s what kept him going: the Holy Spirit, love, and the power of God. Paul knew what it was to fear the Lord. He was
compelled by the love of Christ. And he also had a strong sense of obligation in his ministry. And he was committed to this message that God, that Christ had given to him. He kept on going in the Holy Spirit, in sincere love, and in the power of God. I’m sure that if you would ask Paul how this can be, he would probably say, “Don’t you know where I was before I knew of the love of God? Don’t you know what I did before I knew about Him? Where would I be now if I had never met Christ? Or where would I be spending eternity if I had never met Christ and experienced His love?”
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Understanding the love of God towards us creates a desire to love Him as well. It motivates us, compels us to love those who don’t know about His love.
Paul had experienced the love of God and it kept him going. We can’t separate God’s love for us from our love to God or our love to others. And if we understand His love for us, and what that love cost Him, we will respond with love. Actually, it was love that motivated God to send His Son to be sacrificed. And if we understand His love, we will respond with love. If we love God with all our hearts, then naturally we will also love what He loves: “God so loved the world.” The whole world, and that includes my co-worker who seldom does his share of work; it includes my neighbours whose dogs bark most of the night. Understanding the love of God towards us creates a desire to love Him as well. It creates a desire to love what He loves. It motivates us, compels us to love those who don’t know about His love. Most of us are people in ministry, or have been in ministry, and we know it is not always easy. It certainly wasn’t for Paul, and neither was it for me—even though I didn’t suffer all that Paul did. Far from it. But we must be motivated, like Paul was, by the fear of the Lord, the love of Christ, and the commission that He has given to us. That is a great responsibility and, at the same time, a tremendous T privilege. Amen. M Cathy Thiessen (now of Blumenort, formerly of Mennville) presented this message at the missionary fellowship supper held on September 5, 2008, in the chapel at Steinbach EMC (see page 12). Cathy Thiessen served in Mexico for three years under the EMC’s Christian Service Committee and then from 1974 to 2005 under our Board of Missions.
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with our missionaries Nicaragua
CINAG: A dream come true!
It’s a dream come true! On February 14 CINAG’s residential program received government approval. It was exciting to receive the first resident girls—an excitement shared with Lester and Darlene Olfert and EMC volunteers. We had long prayed. May God bless all who prayed with us! We have received 28 children. They come from backgrounds of abandonment, neglect, physical, and sexual abuse. Some stay at CINAG; others have been moved by Family Services. Two girls rejoined their families. CINAG, together with the local Mennonite conference and the support of EMC, has carried on a ministry to children and adolescents of neighbouring communities . We emphasize Christian education, life skills training, counseling, a pre-school, and a nutrition program. CINAG encounters challenges. There are laws and guidelines to protect children, but we sometimes wonder how they are applied in particular cases. Our country gets deeper into poverty every day. Prices rise, wages remain low, and the unemployment is high, causing despair to many people. This affects our care of residents. Poor governance has robbed, killed, and destroyed the blessing of God. They
have robbed our children of real life. This has produced a pandemic of infant mortality, hunger, violence, and abuse. We depend on God’s redeeming grace to restore children who lack a home, family, or a parent’s love. They are victims of the sin and corruption that destroys their innocence, identity, and hope for a better future. CINAG depends on God to move hearts to continue restoring lives. How we thank God for brothers and sisters who generously sponsor a girl: life skills program, Bible classes, crafts, music lessons. We have kitchen, cleaning, maintenance, and administrative personnel that serve with love and patience; when weary and stressed, they are revived by the Lord. Pray for this labour of love. We see changes in many girls. Some have decided to receive Jesus. There is less aggressiveness and a better spirit of community. It is a slow process but sure because of Christ. There are many needs to provide for 15 girls in residence, 25 children in the Life Skills program, and 21 children in pre-school.
Poor governance has robbed, killed, and destroyed the blessing of God. This has produced a pandemic of infant mortality, hunger, violence, and abuse. José Ramon interacts with children in the Life Skills program.
Elizabeth Vado directs CINAG.
We thank all those that have supported us. I encourage you to not leave us alone. I close with a prayer: Jesus, Teacher, Teach us to be faithful to the will of the Father. Help us to re-construct the society in which we live Help us to practice justice, to live in solidarity To be honest, generous, and truthful, To defend the rights of the weakest. Go with us, Lord, in the advancement of your Kingdom. Amen. Elizabeth Vado, director
Lester Olfert adds: Donations for CINAG may be sent to Action International Ministries, 3015A 21st Street N.E., Calgary, AB T2E 7T1; 1-888-443-2221.
Looking for a vacation with a purpose? Join a volunteer Nicaragua missions exposure/work team to assist in building projects: Gethsemane Orphanage dormitory and Los Castillos Church. Visit churches and experience the culture, sights, and hospitality of Nicaragua. 2009 Projected dates: January 21–February 4, February 17–March 3. Team Coordinators: Lester and Darlene Olfert. For cost information and application forms, contact Lester Olfert, Action International Ministries, 9 Hickory St., Steinbach, MB R5G 0G6; 204-326-7720; darlesolfert@shaw.ca.
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THE MESSENGER September 17, 2008
with our churches
Time management includes work and fun Straffordville, Ont.: Often we feel like we are being pulled in different directions—so much is required from us and there is often not enough time to manage everything. This can happen in a congregation as well. There is much to do and not always enough help or time. So how do we get through it? Time management! This includes work and fun. This summer we have taken some time out to have fun together as we get to know one another better. In June we had a Family Fun Day with food, games, and visiting. We also had a wonderful VBS where we were reminded that Jesus is our friend and He loves us. At our Church Camp we learned about the awesomeness of God. All that we have and are is because of Him. How can we not see that He is awesome! As summer is drawing to a close, we look forward to a new season of teaching and learning. Pastor Richard Klassen has started teaching Christian Life classes for those wanting to be baptized and also for those wanting to take up membership. The SEAN course will also be taught again this fall and winter.
wedding DERKSEN – FRIESEN: Martin Derksen and Emily Friesen were married on January 5, 2008. The couple lives in Grande Prairie, Alta.
Region 8 Women’s Day
Prayer: Hearing God in the Noise of Life October 25, 2008 Prairie Rose EMC, Landmark, Man. Main speaker: Evelyn Barkman Faith stories, music, concert of worship arts, international marketplace, continental breakfast and African lunch Register through your church.
Our Sunday School classes are fuller as we have Promotion Sunday and new students come in. Praise God for our wonderful teachers willing to teach each Sunday. Our Building Committee is still researching and working for our building project that we can hopefully get started soon. As people are coming back refreshed from summer holidays we are looking forward to continuing our work in the church and spreading the good news of God’s love for us. Wherever you are, if you are having been praying for us, we thank you and may God bless you! Aggie Blatz Children pick flowers for their moms at our Family Day.
A tug of war at Family Fun Day. PENNER – to Jake and Lena Penner of Grande Prairie, Alta., a son, Cole Jacob, on April 9, 2008.
births PRETEAU – to Steven and Ashley Preteau of Pansy, Man., a son, Hunter Kade, on December 31, 2007.
FROESE – to John and Emerald Froese of Aylmer, Ont., a son, Aaron Nathaniel, on April 11, 2008.
BRAUN – to Michael and Trish Braun of Pansy, Man., a son, Pierce Rayden Gagne, on March 3, 2008.
SAWATSKY – to Jake and Justina Sawatsky of Grande Prairie, Alta., a daughter, Adrianna Rose, on June 3, 2008.
WIENS – to Barry and Vanessa Wiens of Pansy, Man., a daughter, Ariana Serai, on March 10, 2008.
PETERS – to Brian and Shelly Peters of Grande Prairie, Alta., a daughter, Megan Isabell, on July 4, 2008.
SIEMENS – to Willie and Tina Siemens of Mount Salem, Ont., a son, Morgan William, on March 21, 2008.
LOEWEN – to Abe and Leona Loewen of Aylmer, Ont., a son, Jaywyn Tyrell, on July 13, 2008.
REIMER – to Kevin and Laurie Reimer of Pansy, Man., a son, Bradley Michael, on April 19, 2008.
DERKSEN – to Dave and Jessica Derksen of Grande Prairie, Alta., a son, Troy David, on August 12, 2008.
EMC Ministerial Retreat November 29–December 1, 2008
Celebrating the Call of God in Ministry Speakers: Dr. Henry and Linda Ozirney Wilderness Edge Retreat Centre in Pinawa, Man. www.emconf.ca
THE MESSENGER September 17, 2008
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Learning through summer service
5”x 3”
Swan River, Man.: On May 25, 2008, during the morning, Natalie Penner, eldest daughter of Kevin and Carolyn Penner, was baptized by Pastor John Reimer. In July, she joined her parents, one brother, her sister, and friend Michelle Peters on a trip to Grand Rapids, Manitoba. They joined workers from Winnipeg and Landmark to teach a week of DVBS to over 100 lively youngsters. Daily attendance was over 40 children, who were taught about God’s love through songs, stories, puppetry, crafts, and snacks. Natalie later remarked on how every morning two girls would run to give her hugs. Carolyn and Kevin emphasized the importance of that week of DVBS. They reminded us to pray for Fred and Stella Neff and the group they pastor. More than a year ago their church building was demolished, and they don’t have the funds to begin construction. After returning to Swan River, Natalie and Michelle took in a week of Leaders-inTraining camp, where they learned to be servants for God. Derek Penner, a senior camp counselor, saw the girls performing their servant roles remarkably well. Michelle’s mom, Karen Peters, said she was amazed at her daughter’s changed attitude toward household tasks after camp. Natalie’s summer ended with a week at Extreme Ranch Camp—including the experience of clinging to her horse while he galloped uncontrollably through the woods. She prayed that God would save her from certain death. Riding bareback, she began falling sideways and landed on the ground, shaken but unhurt; a counselor rounded up her horse.
INNER CITY YOUTH ALIVE
Participating in summer ministry were (top left) Kayli Reimer, (bottom left) Derek Penner, (group shot, back) Jeremey Penner, Michelle Peters, Natalie Penner, (front) Carolyn and Kevin Penner, and Lindsay Penner.
She was encouraged to ride a different horse so a fear of riding bareback would not overcome her. She did so and was thankful for lessons she learned— especially that God would and did protect her from harm. Derek Penner spent two weeks at Steeprock Bay Bible Camp as counselor and lifeguard and three weeks counseling at Madge Lake Bible Camp. He found it rewarding to work with teens at Steeprock Bay because he connected well with them. Derek will be missed at Community Bible Fellowship, but we are happy he is attending Steinbach Bible College. Before Kayli Reimer left for North Carolina with her parents to visit her new www.icya.ca
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OCTOBER 3, 2008
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Witness our most needy neighbourhoods and expand your heart to include the inner city! 10
niece, she spent two weeks at Steeprock Bay Bible Camp as a senior counselor. She found it to be rewarding but exhausting. She was moved to tears when two of her five-year-old charges feared that no one would pick them up at the end of camp. For one girl, it happened. She was given a ride home and I think a little piece of Kayli’s heart stayed with her. Having come to the Lord at a Bible camp, I am aware of how important Bible camps are to win souls for God’s Kingdom. However, this summer taught me much about the commitment of people who run the camps: boards and committees, directors, cooks, maintenance people, counselors, life guards, nurses, speakers, children who attend, volunteers, and others who help and pray. It seems like an overwhelming task. But it isn’t, because God is in it. Betty Warkentin
train • refresh • unite
Calling to Connect VOICES OF THE UNHEARD
EMC youth leaders’ retreat October 17–19 Wilderness Edge, Pinawa, Man. Speaker: Phil Wagler To register contact Danae Gibbons 204-654-2181 or danaeandtim@ hotmail.com See brochure at www.emconf.ca (under Coming Events)
THE MESSENGER September 17, 2008
40th anniversary celebration at Braeside Braeside (Winnipeg, Man.): Although summer is usually considered to be a time of holidays and relaxation, it often turns out to be a busy time in many of our churches. Braeside is no exception. Summer also seems to be the time when volunteers step forward and perform tasks not usually associated with regular church year activities. In early June our church basement was transformed into a bustling bazaar. The occasion was the Africa Inland Mission basement sale. Essie Herrod, a spokesperson and former missionary for AIM, together with a dedicated group of volunteers, sorted and priced donated articles. This year the Love Winnipeg campaign, which coincided with the sale, provided coffee, baked goods, and a barbecue lunch for the enjoyment of the many visitors who came to browse and buy. The proceeds from the sale are designated to assist Kenyan Turkana students with their education. In early June Braeside elected Kim Stoesz as our pastor. Kim has for some time felt a call to ministry, although initially the form that service would take was unclear. During her studies leading to a Master of Divinity degree at CMU it became increasingly more transparent that church leadership was the path that God had her on. Her call was further affirmed by support from her husband Gerald, her professors and many other individuals who knew Kim. Kim used her counseling skills while a student at CMU by completing her practicum as part-time chaplain at Grace Hospital. She also served as Braeside’s interim pastor
This fine looking group of pastoral couples have served at Braeside over the past four decades: Cornie and Bernie Plett (’68–’75 and ’77–’82); John and Ellen Stoesz (’82–’93); Ron and Ruth Penner (’93–’02); Carl and Kathy Heppner (’02–’07); Kim and Gerald Stoesz (’07–present). Missing from the picture are Arnold and Anne Fast who served from 1975 to 1977.
for one year. Kim, her husband Gerald, her family and Braeside look forward to working in community to further God’s Kingdom. The August long weekend was a memorable one for Braeside. It was forty years ago that sod was turned for construction to begin on the building in which we now worship. For over a year a volunteer committee met to plan a program of activities that would in a memorable way celebrate the event. On Saturday time was allotted for former (and present) associate pastors to comment. An open microphone provided some humour as well as revelations of the Essie and Wayne Herrod served 25 years as missionaries under AIM among the Turkana people in Kenya. Essie spearheads the annual fundraiser sale for Turkana students. What began as a small Care Group project in 1996 has now grown into a two-day basement sale with a target of raising $,2000, which, Essie states, “we have amazingly reached each year.”
Child dedication services are always joyful events. Carl and Kathy Heppner dedicated Asha Grace Liesel and Thomas and Hertha McLendon dedicated Daniel Thomas to the Lord on a Sunday in July. Pastor Kim Stoesz prayed the dedicatory prayer and the congregation affirmed their intentions to remember the children and the parents in their prayers and interests.
THE MESSENGER September 17, 2008
impact Braeside had on some of the individuals who walked through our doors. Guests enjoyed a pork roast. The Sunday service was devoted largely to our former pastors and memories of their tenure here. Each one challenged us to strive for a specific spiritual goal. After the service there was time to continue fellowship and renewal of acquaintances over lunch. The theme of the weekend, Great is Thy Faithfulness, was clearly expressed in both the spoken word and in song. God indeed has directed and blessed us and we pray that we will be a medium for change in the community and in the lives of all who attend Braeside. For five evenings in August Braeside was filled with dozens of excited youngsters and thirty guiding volunteers. The occasion was Vacation Bible School. The explosive theme was Power Lab, which presented the kids with the concept of God’s power and how it could be put to use in their daily lives. The final program was attended by over one hundred and fifty parents and friends from the neighborhood. Allan Dueck
Our pastor and her family: Gerald, Kim, and Brandin Stoesz and Ashley and Donavon Giesbrecht.
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Tournaments and tones enjoyed at Pansy Pansy, Man.: Is there any church around that doesn’t struggle with questions of How To when trying to reach out to the neighbours? In our circle someone came up with an idea this summer that worked so well we did it twice and hope to continue next year. We had all-church all-ages baseball games at our fine local park, actively including our own people and others-some for playing, others for cheering on. Although the structure was not very high key, the tournaments were so much fun that many said, “Let’s do it again.” What a pleasant way to pull together in a casual way and get to meet more neighbors in the process!
Early fall has been the time to celebrate singing groups this year. We have had the The Daae Family here; they truly blessed us. Then we hosted the High Valley brothers from La Crete, Alta., in Grunthal (that brought a record attendance) as a fundraiser for needed new music equipment. Now we are looking forward to having Dan Thiessen with Jake Brakes here shortly. When God handed out gifts, including music and a special voice to sing for Him, He certainly thought of something precious for His children, don’t you think? Betty Barkman
Evelyn Plett honoured for 40 years of service
Wycliffe Canada
Tale Spin Tour Neil Anderson, Bible translator and storyteller, shares of God’s powerful work among the Folopa people of Papua New Guinea through His Word. You’ll be inspired and challenged to help all people have access to Scripture in their heart language. Oct. 23 Oct. 24 Oct. 25 Oct. 26
Altona EMMC, Banquet, 6 p.m. Steinbach SBC, Family Event, 7 p.m. Winkler Bergthaler, Banquet, 6 p.m. Winnipeg Calvary Temple, 9:30 and 11 a.m. Oct. 26 Winnipeg Ft Garry MB Youth Lunch, 12:30 p.m. Oct. 26 Winnipeg Grant Memorial Baptist Church, Dessert Evening, 6:40 p.m.
Contact 204-284-1973. Seven stations of translation interactive tour, Steinbach only. Sponsors: Wycliffe Canada, Canadian Institute of Linguistics, Steinbach Bible College
E
velyn Plett was honoured on September 5, 2008, for her long-time EMC missionary service in Spain. The honour came in connection with the EMC missionary fellowship supper held in the chapel at Steinbach EMC, hosted by the EMC Board of Missions. About 50 people attended, including members of Evelyn Plett’s family, active and retired EMC missionaries, Board of Mission members, national staff members and spouses. Ken Zacharias, EMC foreign secretary, welcomed guests and led in saying grace. Evelyn Plett and family members led the way in buffet-style disco of Mexican tortillas prepared by Myrna and Vanessa Bartsch (Steinbach EFC). Ken read from Psalm 67, and spoke of how it was good to visit once a year and to pray together. Where we have been blessed, we want to bless others so they can also praise God, he said. He introduced members of the Board of Missions and the national office. Faith Krahn (Swift Current) led in hymn singing: Great is Thy Faithfulness; Be Thou My Vision; Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee; and returned to Great is Thy Faithfulness. Cathy Thiessen, long-time worker in Mexico, gave the message. What motivated the Olympic athletes? she asked. Paul would call it “selfish ambition.” What are our motives in service? she asked. 12
Evelyn Plett is presented with a gift clock by Tim Dyck, EMC General Secretary.
Ken Zacharias said he met Evelyn Plett in 1985 at Portage la Prairie, Man., and he has since followed her ministry. Outgoing Board of Missions chairman Ernie Loewen read a tribute to Evelyn from Bible Centered Ministries International Canada director Bill Ricketts. Ricketts said Evelyn had been faithful within BCM’s mandate of reaching children in Canada and Spain. She had helped to develop and lead Bethel Bible Centre, in camping ministries, in translation of lessons for camp THE MESSENGER September 17, 2008
ministry, and trained many children’s workers. Rickets said that “only God knows” how many people she has touched through her ministry in Spanish. He wished her God’s blessing. Tim Dyck, EMC’s General Secretary who oversees EMC associate workers, said “perseverance” describes Evelyn.
What were her rewards in working? It is to see children and young people who are now serving the Lord, pastors and missionaries, women leading in Bible studies, the impact of Sunday School teacher training. In 1967, he said, she was accepted by the Board of Missions, served a year’s internship in Portage under the EMC and another year in Ontario with BCM. She thought she was rid of camping ministry, and then went to Spain where she was involved in camping ministry for 38 years. She was in charge of Bethel Bible Centre for 26 years, and showed perseverance as the Centre’s building project began in 1993 and faced early and continued opposition. The centre was completed two months before she left Spain. Tim said Evelyn had spoken of seeing former campers now bringing their children to camp. Tim presented Evelyn with a gift clock on behalf of the EMC Board of Missions. Evelyn Plett, part of Prairie Rose EMC, referred to Philippians 2:13 and desired to pass on to God any recognition given for 40 years of service. She had desired an easy life, but the Lord transformed her desire, and she was willing to go to Spain despite never having visited there.
Myrna and Vanessa Bartsch served a Mexican disco to about 50 attenders.
THE MESSENGER September 17, 2008
(photos by Terry Smith)
What clinched her missionary concern was Matthew 4:16, where people who sat in darkness had found a great light. She wanted to bring light to Spain—a poor country, under dictatorship, religious—and yet “dark.” She gave credit to the Lord who helped her continue in the midst of trials and testings and who provided for her by prompting people. Evelyn said she could tell many stories of how the Lord provided for her. Her concern was to be a channel the Lord could work through, and to give Him the glory. What were her rewards in working? Not the clock she received from the BOM or other tokens of affection, she said. It is, rather, to see children and young people who are now serving the Lord, pastors and missionaries, women leading in Bible studies, the impact of Sunday School teacher training. “Only God knows” the impact of her work that was done out of love, she said, giving thanks to a host of people who have had a part through praying and giving. She expressed her thanks to the Board of Missions and to the EMC for the year of probation at Portage, financial and prayer support, opportunities to share with the mission board and churches, The Messenger, books, and birthday cards. The glory belongs to Him, she said. She shared that her heart is burdened for Isabelle (her former co-worker and successor at Bethel, who has breast cancer), and the future of the Centre. Faith Krahn sang from Psalm 13. Gerald Reimer, conference youth minster, read from Colossians 3 and led in a time of prayer. Cross-cultural workers shared of their burdens and needs. People prayed as a large group and then in small groups. In closing, Reimer led those present in a prayer T for EMC workers around the world. M Terry M. Smith 13
Believers Church Conference
Bibby: Denominations don’t matter to most people Do denominations matter? No, not for most people who are looking for a church to attend. At least, that’s what Dr. Reginald Bibby told participants at the 16th Believers Church Conference, held June 12–16, 2008, at Canadian Mennonite University in Winnipeg. According to Bibby, a University of Lethbridge sociologist and one of Canada’s leading trackers of Canadian religious trends, “solid family ministries”
Dr. Reginald Bibby
Domestic Violence Counselling an intensive weekend course October 16–18, 2008 Guest Professor: Hali Reimer, M.A. Classess will be held Thursday & Friday evening 7:00-10:00 pm and Saturday 9:00-4:00 pm at SBC. Cost: $88 audit or $176 credit For more information or to register call Christal, 204.326.6451 email, admissions@sbcollege.ca online, www.sbcollege.ca
is a key reason why people choose one church over another. “If you want to touch people’s lives, touch their families,” he said, adding that programs for children and youth are “one reason why evangelical churches are growing.” Bibby was one of several keynote speakers who addressed the Conference theme of Congregationalism, Denominationalism, and the Body of Christ at the Conference, which was sponsored by CMU’s Institute for Theology and the Church. Bibby went on to say that when it comes to choosing a church, people tend to stick with the familiar— Anglicans looking for a new church home will tend to look for another Anglican church, and Baptists will likely seek out a different Baptist congregation. “The denominational walls are not tumbling down,” he said, citing research showing that “there is not a lot of switching going on.” Bibby also noted that while the evangelical church in Canada has grown in numbers over the past century to 2.4 million today, Canadian evangelicals are only eight percent of the population—the same figure as in 1971 and 1951. “That’s a success story,” he stated, noting that other denominations have lost members over that period of time. He added that their success is attributable to family ministries, being open to innovation, “addressing ultimate issues” and “placing demands” on people. “The message is that if it costs something, it must be worth something,” he said. In the U.S., however, it’s a different story. Evangelicals there comprise 33 percent of the population, or over 100 million people. “They are marginal in Canada, but mighty in the U.S.,” he said, noting that you don’t see many Canadian
The success of Canadian Evangelicals is attributable to family ministries, being open to innovation, “addressing ultimate issues” and “placing demands” on people. politicians “wooing Evangelicals” like you do in the U.S. Key trends that affect the church today, he said, include moving from “dominance to diversity”; individualism, or “moving from we to me,” with a growing reluctance for people to formally become members of churches; and “deference to discernment,” as people lose respect for institutional authority. There’s also a loss of identification with denominations, he said, noting that “many congregations want very little from their denominations.” During a concluding panel discussion, Mennonite Brethren Herald editor Laura Kalmar noted that Conference speakers had suggested that differences in the church were useful, and that “denominationalism was not equal to schism.” J. Denny Weaver, former professor of Religion at Bluffton University, noted the significance of context: How Canadians, who live in a cultural mosaic, talk about the Believer’s Church is different from what it means to Americans, who live in country dominated by civil religion. “It’s a very different conversation” in his country, he noted, where the Believer’s Church “poses an alternative to religious nationalism.” Other Conference participants noted that future gatherings should include more people from the global south, as well as more people “under age 45.” Selected papers and presentations from the Conference will be available this winter; contact CMU at info@cmu.ca for information. CMU
In 2009, Semester 2... January 5–23, 2009 • Romans Professor Corey Herlevsen, M.Div. March 19–21 • Experiential Youth Ministry Professor Garth Friesen, M.A.
50 PTH 12 N Steinbach, MB R5G 1T4 www.sbcollege.ca
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A findings panel compiled their thoughts and questions on the final day of the conference. Pictured are Marlin Jeschke, J. Denny Weaver, Jane Barter-Moulaison, and Laura Kalmar.
THE MESSENGER September 17, 2008
Guenther: Denominations are still important Are denominations still important? For Bruce Guenther, the answer is yes. In a paper titled Toward a contemporary theology of denominationalism Guenther, a church history and Mennonite studies professor at Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary in Fresno, California, noted that while denominations have created disunity, they have also been the bodies that have “mobilized Christians to action.” He went on to say that “doctrinal differences among Christians are inevitable” since the “Bible is not
ABRAM B. EIDSE 1926–2008
Abram B. Eidse, much loved husband, father, grandfather, and greatgrandfather passed away peacefully in his sleep on August 27, 2008. God granted him his desire—to fall asleep and not wake up, and answered our prayers for his healing. Dad was born in the village of Rosenhof, Man., on December 5, 1926. Abie, as he was known by friends and family, leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife, Matilda; his children Sylvia and Larry Dyck, Robert and Diane, Kerry and Joanne, Ray and Kimberly, June and Marc Rogers; ten grandchildren and their spouses; and five great- grandchildren. As well, he is survived by two sisters, and was predeceased by eight brothers and sisters, with his brother Dick passing away just a week before. Dad grew up on the farm in Rosenhof and attended school until grade seven. From that point on his education consisted of the school of experience and hard work.
In the winter of 1945, Dad met Matilda Friesen, and they were married on October 8, 1950. Dad was first and foremost a farmer, but he spent the first six winters after marriage hauling logs in the Vermillion Bay/Kenora, Ont., area. When spring came and the ice on the lakes broke up, Dad returned with his family to the land he loved and resumed his passion, farming. During the seventies and eighties CB radios were widely used by farmers, and Dad’s CB handle was “Colonel Wheat,” which seemed appropriate both for his character and occupation. Dad became very adept at fixing things; however, he was not always the most patient man. His attitude and actions were characterized by the oftspoken words “daut mut gonne” (it has to work). His love for work and concern for people melded to form a compassionate and practical hands-on man of action. These attributes were a perfect fit for his years of involvement with the Mennonite Disaster Service. One of Mom and Dad’s greatest blessings to family, friends, and the community at large was one they did not intentionally plan for when they purchased their cottage at Betula Lake in 1979. We as a family can hardly put into words what time spent at the cottage has meant to us children and now our grandchildren. We know that many in and outside of our community have been the beneficiaries of Mom and Dad’s generosity as they “rented” it to friends and their families.
THE MESSENGER September 17, 2008
clear on all matters.” At the same time, “no single human structure can fully represent the whole church of Christ,” he said. Differences among Christians can also be useful, he stated, saying that “God can use them for his glory…they can be used to bring further light and knowledge.” Christians, he said, need to hold in tension their “desire for unity” and the “reality of differences,” he said, adding that “unity is not the same as uniformity.” CMU
About fifteen years ago Dad began a slow but steady decline in his health. He contracted four different kinds of arthritis, and had a number of back and neck surgeries. It was difficult to watch a proud, independent, and hard working man become dependent. We have been amazed and awed at Mom’s determination and ability to care for him at home, until July 27 when he entered Morris Hospital. We will miss him sorely, but we also visualize Dad experiencing renewed health, energy, and release from pain as he enters his new home and meets his Saviour. His Family
In memoriam
GRAHAM SIEMENS October 9, 1998 to September 2, 2007 Because of what He did… you are His. Loved and missed, Wes and Sherri, Caleb, Tess, and Lucas
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stewardship today edwin friesen
W
Relay
e used a short stick scrounged from the adjacent bush. It was the school picnic and time for races—sack races, distance running, three-legged race, wheelbarrow race, long jump, high jump and relay. And then there was the four person relay. There are two essentials for winning relays: Running fast and handing off the baton successfully. Do either one poorly and you are out of the “medal round.” I never wanted to be the closing runner for fear of letting the team down and being tagged with failure. Our time on the stage of life is not unlike running our assigned turn in a relay race. We may run our segment of the race well but unless we have a well-rehearsed plan for handing off to those who run after us, it won’t matter much how well we run. The handoff is critical. If someone misses the handoff, the whole team feels the loss. Do you have a written “handoff” plan in place? Suppose you lose the ability to take care of your finances, have you authorized someone else to step in for you? Adding another signing authority to your bank account allows that individual to pay your bills from that account, but what about signing income tax returns? Your pension application? What if property needs to be sold? Or investments realigned? For someone to stand in for you in these and other areas, you will need to grant a trusted person general, enduring power of attorney for property. These powers must be granted while you have mental capacity. What if you were to die unexpectedly? Do you have a plan in place to hand off the baton for your affairs to someone else? Do you have a current will in place? Are the guardians you have named for the care of your underage children still the right ones? Are the executors
you have named in your will still the right ones given your current circumstances? Are the estate distribution instructions you have outlined in your will still applicable? We stand in a long parade of runners spanning the centuries, each of us charged with running our segment of the relay. Now, for a short while, it is our turn on the track and then we too must hand off to those who follow. The stands are packed with fans all hoping we do well. “Therefore since we are surrounded by such a great crowd of witnesses…let us run with endurance the race that God has set before us”(Hebrews 12:1). Once we are done with our segment of the race we have no use for the baton. Likewise when we die, our assets are of no value to us. But we can use them to bless our family as well as release some to further the work of God around the corner and around the globe— help spread the good news of Jesus, alleviate hunger, provide education and promote justice. That is leaving a legacy of faith and good deeds. Are T you ready for your handoff in the relay of life? M For stewardship education and services, contact your nearest Mennonite Foundation of Canada office: Abbotsford—Ed Wedel, 888-212-8608; Calgary—Gary Sawatzky, 877-717-0708; Kitchener—Sherri Grosz, Mike Strathdee, 888-212-7759; Niagara—Darren Pries-Klassen, 888-212-8731; Winnipeg—Edwin Friesen, Dori Zerbe Cornelsen, 800-772-3257.
We stand in a long parade of runners spanning the centuries, each of us charged with running our segment of the relay.
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THE MESSENGER September 17, 2008
pictures of God Joanna Plett
I
Photo albums of God
have before me a picture of myself with a lion skin on my head. I am surrounded by half a dozen Masai men wearing red blankets and chanting some strange dirge, which I remember fearing was a marriage ritual, after which one of them would grab me, lion skin and all, and drag me off to their hut, thus ending life as I knew it. Almost four years have passed since my six months in Kenya and Uganda. So much has happened since then that sometimes those memories feel like they belong to a different person or a different lifetime. But when I flip through my pictures and reminisce about the memories, everything comes flooding back. There are times when my relationship with God feels almost as distant and as long ago as Africa— like it belongs to a different person or a different time. (Zach Miller) Flipping through my journals and mental photo albums of my relationship with God, Today, this picture seems far I wonder if God is really still the God away and somehow foreign to me, “Chase after God and follow although I knew as a trusting child, as an overin its day, it was my mantra his leading and he will do his for six very intense months of achieving and legalistic teenager, as an insecure high school graduate, as and leadership. big picture work. This is the ministry a confident team leader, or as a roving But perhaps these words were role of faith in our lives—to given more for this season than for university student. I wonder if He’s changed, or if only that. Perhaps it was a challenge to persevere in seasons.” I have, my perceptions growing with persevere in a season where pictures perspective. of God look like modern art—random I return to a mental snapshot from December 4, 2004, shapes and lines disjointed and devoid of meaning. several days after first arriving in Kenya. I am sitting in It is in paging through my photo albums of the past the skeleton of what will be a huge cathedral, talking to and merging them with my present images that I create God. He gives me a word about faith and seasons that a collage of experience, truth, and mystery that emerges will give me the strength to persevere for the next six as my picture of God today and my hope for new shades T months. of colour and meaning in the future. M “Life is never defined by its seasons,” I wrote, “but only in the big picture of the culmination of all of them Urgent needs within MDS and the greater purpose and vision to which each of MDS crew leaders, cooks, office managers, and them adds and points. construction supervisors are needed in several locations “Often the purpose and vision itself is not defined from October 6 to December 12. In Canada call 866-261by a single lifetime, but an accumulation of lifetimes all 1274 to volunteer. reaching towards the greater purpose with no single Remember the variety of ways you can give to MDS: person or lifetime seeing the complete picture, nor, volunteer your time, give money through cash donations, necessarily, its role in the grand scheme. planned gifts, bequests, and traded securities. Call our “Therefore, do not look with contempt on the small office for details. things or despair in moments. Chase after God and Contributions may be sent to 6A-1325 Markham Rd, follow his leading and he will do his big picture work. Winnipeg, MB R3T 4J6; www.mds.mennonite.net/donate; This is the role of faith in our lives—to persevere in 800-241-8111. seasons.” MDS
THE MESSENGER September 17, 2008
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DICK B. EIDSE 1915–2008
On August 20, 2008, five days before his 93rd birthday, Dick B. Eidse went home to be with his Lord. He is survived by his daughter Minola (Peter) Kroeker and their children, Gailene (Michael) Rauser, with grandson Jamieson, Lorraine, and David (Freda); his son Peter (Caroline) and their children, Margaret (Harold) Klassen, with grandsons Richard (Alejandra), Jason (Destiny), and Mathew, Jane, and Steven (Nancy), with grandchildren Jasper, Kira, and Tory. He also leaves one brother and two sisters, as well as many nieces and nephews. Dick was predeceased by his first wife Anna (Dyck) Eidse, his second wife Mary (Reimer) Eidse, his infant son Paul, two granddaughters Lorna May and Brenda Kroeker, seven brothers and sisters, and his parents Abram K. and Anna (Bartel) Eidse. Born on August 25, 1915, Dick was the third of 11 children. Four died before reaching adulthood. His father Abram was known for his hospitality and willingness to help anyone in need. His mother Anna was the unofficial midwife, as well as stitching cuts and minor doctoring. Dick grew up in Riverside, just south of Rosenort, Man. He was baptized into the EMC church in 1935.
Eventually, he noticed Anna Dyck. They were married on November 17, 1935. They had a long and happy marriage and were never afraid of hard work. Besides full-time farming, Dick was also involved in many side ventures, including sawing ice, harvesting beets, building tractor cabs, building levelers, filling out income tax for others, bookkeeping, etc. He was also instrumental in starting the Rosenort Credit Union; he still has account #1-0. He served on the Red River Fire Insurance Board for many years, and enjoyed the work greatly. He was also very active with Rosenort EMC, serving on numerous committees as well as teaching Sunday School. On May 4, 1994, Anna went home to be with Jesus after 58 and a half years of marriage. The last two years of their life together, Dick took constant care of her. He was very lonely without Anna at his side but life must go on, and in October 1996 he married Mary Reimer. They moved into Rosenort, and until October of 1998 were very active visiting friends and relatives. On October 14, 1998 Dick was attending a Rosenort dike meeting, when he suffered a combination heart attack/stroke. He was rushed to Morris Hospital, where he spent several months recovering. Eventually Dick and Mary moved to Woodhaven in Steinbach. Dick suffered several more strokes, and in December 2002 moved into Rest Haven. In 2005, after the passing of his wife Mary, he moved to the Red River Valley Lodge in Morris. Dick always said that too many old people became complainers. He resolved in his early 70’s that he would always try to be grateful for any help he received, and he lived up to that resolve. The family would like to sincerely thank the nurses and staff of the Red River Valley Lodge for the wonderful care Dick received. His Family
40th anniversary celebration
rosenort fellowship Chapel October 19, 2008 Rosenort, Man. Worship service at 10 a.m. Guest Speaker: Kenton Dueck (son of first pastor Mel Dueck) Luncheon fellowship RSVP by Oct. 10 204-746-8360 or glowing@mts.net Past and current members, adherents, and all others are welcome! 18
coming events September 26–27 MCC Relief Sale Keystone Centre Brandon, Man. 204-726-5116 mcc.org/manitoba
October 3–5 Take and Eat A conference on food and creation care Providence College and Seminary Otterburne, Man. takeandeat@prov.ca www.prov.ca
October 9–10 Mennonites and Money: Wealth and Poverty in the Past and Present Keynote: Dr. James Urry University of Winnipeg Winnipeg, Man. r.loewen@uwinnipeg.ca mennonitestudies.uwinnipeg.ca/ events
October 17–19 TRU08: EMC National Youth Leaders’ Retreat See ad on p. 10
October 23–25 A brand new day: the NOVA experience Equipping staff, ministry leaders, board members, and volunteers Kelowna, B.C. 800-804-0777 growingleadership.com/novawest
October 25 Region 8 Women’s Day Prayer: Hearing God in the Noise of Life See ad on p. 9
November 6–9 Business as a Calling 2008: Dividends of Hope MEDA Convention Columbus, Ohio 717-560-6546 www.meda.org
November 29–December 1 EMC Ministerial Retreat Celebrating the Call of God in Ministry See ad on p. 9
THE MESSENGER September 17, 2008
shoulder tapping The EMC seeks a full-time archivist for a oneyear term position at the Conference office in Steinbach, Man. The archivist will work with the Conference’s archival collection, about 300 boxes of materials, and periodicals and books. The main goal of the year is to prepare the collection for transfer to a suitable archival facility. A full job description and list of qualifications are available upon request. The archivist is to be committed to a personal Christian faith and work well within a denominational office setting. Salary details are available upon request. Interviews for the position will continue until a suitable candidate is found. Please contact General Secretary Tim Dyck at tdyck@emconf.ca or 204-326-6401. Christian Fellowship Church (EMC), located in the village of Birch River, Man., seeks a full-time pastor to begin early in 2009. For information or to submit a resume and names of three references, contact Harold Thiessen, Elders Board Chair, at 204-238-4443 or RR1, Bowsman, MB R0L 0H0. Morris Fellowship Chapel (EMC), located in Morris, Man., is looking for a full-time pastor for a congregation of about 120. Previous pastoral experience and leadership abilities are assets. For job description and information, please call Brian Klassen at 204-746-8102. Hillside Christian Fellowship (EMC) La Crete, Alberta, seeks a full-time pastor. Where is La Crete? Where the sun shines 20 hours a day in summer, the northern lights light up the sky in fall; moose, deer, and bear are common sights; Canada geese gather by the thousands in fall; and the snowmobilers long for winter. People of La Crete are hardworking, loving, caring, optimistic people. Desired: married couple, some pastoral experience, willing to work with all ages. Competitive northern Alberta salary package, housing available, country church, excellent public education system K-12. Local economy: farming, logging, oilfield. Local languages: Low German and English. If the Holy Spirit is tugging at your heart, give us a call. You might be surprised at what God has in store for you and His church. Contact Johnny Wieler at 780-928-3880 or avll@siscanada.ca. Reserve Fellowship Chapel (EMC), located in Sioux Valley (west-central Man.), seeks a fulltime pastoral couple to serve the church and to develop long-term relationships with people of the community. Direct inquiries to church planting coordinator Ward Parkinson, 204-326-6401, e-mail: wparkinson@emconf.ca. Pelly Fellowship Chapel (EMC) seeks a youth worker or couple to develop a program for youth and junior youth. PFC is a small church in the village of Pelly, located in central Sask., close to the Manitoba border. Submit resume to Pastor John Froese, Box 70, Pelly, SK S0A 2Z0. Phone 306-5952074. E-mail pastor@pellyfellowship.com. Leamington EMC, in southern Ontario, seeks a full-time youth pastor to work with our junior and senior youth groups. Contact Abe Klassen, board chairman, at 519-816-1840 or abek@
Full text of ads available at www.emconf.ca/service.htm
masterconveyors.com; or Danny Dick, ministerial chair, at 519-326-4584.
e-mailed to kim@redrockbiblecamp.com or faxed to 204-348-7081.
Good busy people wanted. We’re adding staff to our great team. We’re a vibrant church with many young families, 500-plus attendees, three services, two languages and growing. Can you contribute long-term or interim, full-time or part-time, sharing in roles of administrative leadership, preaching/teaching, worship coordination, leadership development, and outreach? Do you have an Anabaptist understanding and training of the Bible, love for people, love for God and a passion for ministry in a church setting? Or do you know someone who does? Contact Dan Rempel or Abe Harms at Aylmer EMMC in Ontario (serve@aemmc.ca). Check out our vision at www. aemmc.ca.
MFC seeks a second full-time stewardship consultant to work in its Calgary, Alta., office. This person will be responsible to provide charitable gift and estate planning services and to promote biblical stewardship of financial resources in our constituency churches in Alberta. The successful candidate will communicate effectively with individuals and in public presentations; have a good understanding of charitable gift and estate planning; be creative, organized, and self-motivated; support and incorporate MFC’s stewardship mission in personal life; be willing and able to contribute as part of an inter-dependent staff team. The position will open on January 1, 2009. Processing of applications will begin immediately and continue until the mission is filled. Submit resumes to Erwin Warkentin, General Manager, 12-1325 Markham Rd, Winnipeg, MB R3T 4J6, Ph. 800-772-3257, fax 204-488-1986, e-mail ewarkentin@mennofoundation.ca, web www. mennofoundation.ca.
Camp Moose Lake, near Sprague, Man., requires for fall 2008: a full-time camp manager and a half-time food services coordinator. Contact director of camping ministries, Mennonite Church Manitoba at 204-895-2267 or camps@ mennochurch.mb.ca. Camp Cedarwood, a Youth for Christ camp near Lac du Bonnet, Man., seeks year-round head cook, food preparation staff, and maintenance staff to respond to “explosive growth.” Housing, utilities, and most food provided. Housing available for couples and families. Contact Brad Plett at 204345-8529 or brad@yfcwinnipeg.ca Expand your world: Teach in Lithuania! LCC International University seeks university instructors in English, business administration, psychology and theology; PhD recommended. We seek English teachers for our Intensive English Program (IEP). EFL/ESL experience and MA recommended. Eager students come from 21 different countries. We provide housing, travel stipend, orientation, and a supportive Christian environment. Contact us at opportunities@lcc.lt or check www.lcc.lt. Inner City Youth Alive seeks these full-time workers: operations manager, meals program coordinator, and camp director. ICYA is a Christian organization located in the North End of Winnipeg, Man. For over 21 years we have been bringing hope and a future through Christ to youth and their families dealing with poverty and related issues. Contact: Shonet, ICYA, 418 Aberdeen Ave., Winnipeg, MB R2W 1V7; 204-582-8779; (fax) 204582-4729; shonet@icya.ca. Altona EMMC in southern Manitoba seeks a lead pastor. It has about 500 members and three pastors. The role includes inspiring the spiritual growth of congregation, staff, and leaders through biblical teaching, mentoring, and personal relationships. Please send resumes to Frank Friesen, pastoral search committee chairperson, at frankf@mts.net. Help change your world one life at a time through Christian camping. Due to illness, one of our staff couples has had to resign. We are in need of a full-time food services director at Red Rock Bible Camp. Call 204-326-9784. Resumes may be
THE MESSENGER September 17, 2008
CAmp Assiniboia, Headingley, Man., requires a food service assistant volunteer for a one-year term. Explore interests, develop skills in food service, custodial, enjoy Christian camp setting. Stipend, loding, partial food provided. Contact manager at 204-864-2159 or campa@prairie-sky.com. It also has openings for short-term volunteers (one to four months) with skills in food service, maintenance, custodial, or hosting who would enjoy serving in a Christian camp setting. Lodging (or RV pad) and partial food provided. SBC invites applications for the position of admissions counsellor. This opportunity includes connecting with potential students from across Canada and internationally. If you are excited about your relationship with God and would love to tell others what He is doing at SBC, consider joining our team of men and women committed to training people to serve in kingdom ministry. The successful applicant must be willing to travel and work some evenings and weekends. SBC alumni are encouraged to apply. Applications accepted until a suitable candidate is found. Submit resumé and cover letter to: SBC, Attn: Patrick Friesen, 50 PTH 12 N, Steinbach, MB R5G 1T4, 204-326-6451 ext. 272, or pfriesen@sbcollege. ca. Eden Health Care Services, a faith-based mental health recovery service provider engaged in a range of programs, seeks a full-time chief financial officer. This individual will work with board members and other senior managers responsible for the accounting and finance functions contributing to the development of annual operating plans and long-term corporate strategy. A full job description and list of qualifications is available upon request or by checking www. edenhealth.mb.ca. Contact: James Friesen, CEO, Eden Health Care Services, Box 129, Winkler, MB R6W 4A6; Fax 204-325-8742; Ph. 204-325-5355; E-mail: jfriesen.ehcs@mts.net. Interviews will start September 2008 and will continue until a qualified candidate is selected. Eden is a program of the Mennonite Churches of Manitoba in partnership with Regional Health Authority Central MB, Inc.
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KIDS’
corner Activity: think and do Loreena Thiessen
Do your best!
S
eptember brings new things. You are in a new class. You have new pencils and notebooks. Perhaps you have new shoes and your feet feel light and bouncy. You may even have met and made some new friends. Then there are new books to read and new projects to work on. How will you do this year? How often have you heard, “Do your best!”? But what does it mean to do your best? In order to do your best you
When you do your best you do a quality job, you create something you can be proud of. You create excellence.
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Choose one area or activity this week where you decide to do your best. Suggestions: 1. Yard clean-up: cut and rake the grass; pull and bag or compost dead plants in the garden. 2. Wash windows or your family’s car. 3. Help a friend feel welcome or help a friend understand rules, instructions or an assignment. 4. Be a friend to someone who feels lonely. 5. Help your teacher hand out papers or notices; help your teacher clean the board; help organize and lead a work or study group in your classroom. must focus. This means understanding first, then putting your thoughts on the task, and follow the instructions. It means working on the task until it is complete; it means not quitting. It may also mean asking for help if you get stuck or overwhelmed. All of these are necessary if you want to do your best. When you do your best amazing things can happen. First, when you do your best you do a quality job, you create something you can be proud of. You create excellence. Second, you are setting a standard, or a level that shows you how well you can do something. Third, your best can be an example or a model that motivates others who see your best and they may want to do the same. You are leading by your example and others may follow. Finally, by doing your best you are building a foundation, a solid achievement which can result in something more or something even better; from your best a new thing can develop. Doing your best can be in a project you are working on such as understanding a novel and writing an explanatory essay. Doing your best can also be in acts of kindness or in understanding someone else’s point of view. Or, you can do your best in helping a new student understand something new or difficult. Doing your best is not limited to school work. You can practice doing your best as you work and play with your friends and classmates. You will develop quality relationships and grow as a caring person. One of our finest Canadian Olympians, Adam van Keuverdan, says, that “to give anything less than your best is to waste the gift.” Ecclesiastes 9:10 says, “Whatever your hand finds T to do, do it with all your might.” M THE MESSENGER Evangelical Mennonite Conference 440 Main Street Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 Publications Mail Agreement #40017362 PAP Registration #9914