THE
MESSENGER
a publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference
volume 46, number 17 October 1, 2008
Why I believe in
the Church
www.emconf.ca/Messenger
editorials
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What the EMC does well
ithout claiming a uniqueness or a superiority to other parts of Christ’s Church, what do you value from our EMC teaching and history? Consider this a personal list. A central focus on Jesus Christ, his Church, and mission. Faith is shown in lifestyle, including a gracious attitude toward service. A rich confidence in the Bible as God’s Word. Caution displayed toward state and war; much suffering happens by poor decisions in these areas. A strong commitment to missions, despite our brief history. A concern for the whole person—body and soul, individual and community (a missional emphasis). This involves evangelism, social concern, and (increasingly) social justice.
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• Electing ministers from within: “But should it happen that through the cross this pastor shall be banished or led to the Lord [through martyrdom] another shall be ordained in his place in the same hour so that God’s flock and people may not be destroyed” (The Schleitheim Confession, 1527). • We accept a variety of educational paths into pastoral ministry. • Some members practice a simple lifestyle. • We await the Lord’s return with practical service rather than by plotting out the details. This list isn’t to ignore our weaknesses and challenges as a conference; all parts of Christ’s Church have them. It, however, can serve as a moment of reflection: “Each one should test his own actions…without comparing himself to somebody else, for each should carry his own T load” (Galatians 6:4–5). M Terry M. Smith
Commonly quoted, tricky words
First Corinthians 13 is a call for irst Corinthians 13 was commonly Christians to display a rich love toward quoted at weddings this summer. First Corinthians 13 each other—the same self-giving love that That’s despite it saying nothing reminds us that the Jesus displayed. Of course, it’s easy, far originally intended by the Apostle ultimate love in life isn’t too easy, to say that; it’s another matter Paul for a bride and a groom. to do it. The chapter was given to Christians between a man and a who faced disunity and differences over woman, but between This passage reminds us that the the existence and use of gifts. ultimate love in life isn’t between a man and a woman, but between Christ and his In chapter 12 the apostle Paul speaks of Christ and his creation. creation. It reminds us that our fulfillment the dignity and order needed in worship services, and in chapter 14 the apostle says how God- in life is found in responding to Christ’s love like a bride given abilities are to be used for the common good of the joyfully responding to her wonderful husband’s request. Church. First Corinthians 13 reminds us that being part of the In between is chapter 13 with its emphasis on love: Church isn’t optional for Christians; it’s part of God’s It holds together worship services, guides proper use of intention in Christ. But Paul reminds us that, even in the gifts, and gives grace as recovering human beings grow early years of the Church, getting along can be tricky T enough that we need lots of love. M together. Terry M. Smith 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. 19 – November 5 Main St, Steinbach, Man. (copy due October 24)
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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
THE
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 October 1, 2008
letter Let us not delude ourselves In response to Wendolyn and John Schlamp’s letter of appeal to collectively support women (September 3, 2008), I am all in agreement. What I find some very real difficulty with are their suggestions that 1) concern for women’s difficult situations should result in us supporting a woman’s right to end the life of her unborn child and supporting those who work towards this right for women; and 2) that “giving women who choose to end a pregnancy the opportunity to have safe medical care is a step in the right direction.” Now I would define myself as strongly pro-life, as would our Creator, the Father of all life. I also define myself as prochoice and we know that our Lord and Saviour has also defined Himself this way. He gave Adam and Eve a choice in the garden, and to this day He allows us to make choices that may bring great harm and evil into the world. I work at a Crisis Pregnancy Centre and have talked to many women facing unimaginably difficult situations in regards to pregnancies that were not planned. There are no easy answers. Having to face a hostile community, particularly a church community, in the face of an unplanned pregnancy, would be excruciating. What I want to remind us all of, is that language is important. Language is powerful. We have become rather desensitized to the “language” of abortion. It is easier to talk of “terminating a pregnancy” than it is to talk of “killing a child.” But that is what abortion is. Would we respond as easily were it legal to kill children up until the age of three? What is the difference between supplying a mother with the humane drugs needed to kill her two-year-old and supplying her with “safe medical care” to “terminate a pregnancy”? Let us support women and children in every way that we possibly can. Let
us pour love and compassion into the hearts and lives of women (and men) facing the difficulty of an unplanned pregnancy. Let us also pour love, compassion, and kindness into the lives of women who have made the difficult choice to have an abortion. But let us not delude ourselves into thinking that offering safe abortions to women is loving them. It may make things easier for us, and perhaps temporarily for them, but the realities of the emotional pain and trauma that 99 percent of post-abortive women experience, and the loss of the life of a baby, are anything but compassionate options to offer hurting women. We can do better than that. And by God’s grace, I pray that the EM Conference will continue to be a standard bearer in radical love for the “least of these.” Fiona Thiessen Winnipeg, Man.
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. The views and opinions expressed by the writers are their own, and do not necessarily represent the position of the Conference. All publication of letters is subject to the policy approved January 2002 by the EMC Board of Church Ministries.
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
EM Cup Hockey Tournament November 7–9, 2008 Teams contact Colin Loewen, caloewen@mts.net or 204-346-1380.
THE MESSENGER October 1, 2008
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Why I believe in
the Church
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e started out in the EM Conference as missionaries in Nicaragua during the ’70s and early ’80s. In March 2008 we took a Missions Work and Exposure Team to Nicaragua. Our intent was to work at the orphanage (CINAG) for two weeks, and we were privileged to visit churches we were involved in years ago. It has been 14 years since we last visited Nicaragua and the churches have grown significantly. The Church in Nicaragua reminded me of 2 Corinthians 8:2–4: “Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints.” Slogans and sayings are telltale signs of prevailing thoughts, philosophies, and ideologies in a country. While working at CINAG several of us went to buy paint. At the store I saw a slogan on the wall; translated from Spanish, it said Giving hands are never empty. I thought this to be a profound truth. What we saw as a motto was exercised in many of the churches. Upon leaving Nicaragua, I saw a billboard close to the Presidential government buildings: Nicaragua gana con voz (Nicaragua wins with you). This implies the importance of each person contributing. Each person counts and with that comes the victory. This, too, seemed to be prevailing philosophy in the Church: “It grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work” (Ephesians 4:16). 4
Pastor John Reimer
What affected me deeply was what God had done during those years since we served in Nicaragua as church planters and helpers at Camp Maranatha. A life lesson for me is: Invest early in Christ’s Kingdom. Connie and I were newlyweds when we went, and now we saw how God has caused the increase. As John Maxwell has said, if you plant a tree while you are young, you might be able to sit in its shade some day. God made the Church to grow. The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labour. For we are God’s fellow workers…For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 3:6–7, 11).
I’ve been in, and continued in, the ministry since the mid-70s. It’s because I believe in the Church. Here’s why:
The Church
is built by Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God. Christ is the Rock; on him, our Father will build his Church (Matthew 16:18). The principle to observe is to keep Jesus Christ front and centre in all we do. This is paramount in ministry.
The Church
is for all people, language groups, and nations. Jesus the Son of God died for all. The Church is not just a North American, Anglo-Saxon invention.
The Church
is where all people can find a place through faith in Christ. In Matthew 16, Jesus looked at a man much like us and said, “It’s upon the profession of faith, the belief system, the foundations of your life, and other lively stones that will come after you, that I’ll build my Church, and the gates of hell will not prevail against it.” Peter got it right in his confession of who is Jesus.
THE MESSENGER October 1, 2008
The Church, though imperfectly, upholds the value of life. It sees that each person is an image bearer of God. Every human life has value, worth, and dignity.
The Church
is our only institution to deal with eternity. It’s the only institution in our society dealing with the ultimate issues of life, death, eternity, judgment, forgiveness. It’s important to address the Gross National Product, the balance of power, the balance of trade. It’s important to deal with world health and hunger. These and a thousand other political problems are important. But if one deals with these issues, and not with issues like, “Where will I spend eternity? How will I please a holy God?”—if one has no answer to their sin problem or the problem of their soul—then they have missed the point. In bringing many sons to glory, it was fitting that God, for whom and through whom everything exists, should make the author of their salvation perfect through suffering. Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil—and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death (Hebrews 2:10, 14–15).
I’m glad the Church of Jesus Christ tells me how to be saved. As Richard John Neuhaus says: We could not bear to live in a world where wrong is taken lightly and where right and wrong finally make no difference. Spare me a gospel of easy love that makes of my life a thing without consequence. Atonement is not an accountant’s trick. It is not a kindly overlooking; it is not a “not counting” of what must count if anything in heaven or on earth is to matter. God could not simply decide not to count without declaring that we do not count.
THE MESSENGER October 1, 2008
The Church
gives dignity to humankind. I believe in the Church because it provides a perspective that gives dignity to humankind. Psalm 8 has an interesting question: “What is man that you are mindful of him?” Then it goes on to say, “Man is a little lower than the angels.” We live in a society that doesn’t think of humankind as a little lower than the angels. We live in a society that thinks of humans as a little higher than animals—with no qualitative distinction between man and the rest of creation. The Church, though imperfectly, upholds the value of life. It sees that each person is an image bearer of God. Every human life has value, worth, and dignity. The Church is a protector of people, not an exploiter. Jesus came to bring life, and because of this unique and distinct Christian truth, humankind is more important than society.
The Church
provides a moral compass. I believe in the Church of Jesus Christ because it provides a moral and ethical compass in the midst of relativism. Our world acts like it’s living on Swiss cheese and people are afraid they’ll fall through 5
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 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.
No other institution, organization, or grouping 50 PTH 12 N Steinbach, MB the R5G 1T4 of humanity better displays character of www.sbcollege.ca God than the Church.
a hole at any minute. No absolutes, no values. “Each man does what is right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25). Everything is subjective in society; it depends “on many winds of doctrine” (Ephesians 4:14). The Church is often seen as against everything, but in actuality the Church is what keeps a person, a family, a society from going out of control, over the abyss. The Church is so often counter-culture; it’s seen as the upside-down Kingdom. Jesus Christ and his Church have stood against that kind of relativism for all of history.
The Church motivates for lasting,
valuable, selfless efforts. The Church, in many instances, has built schools, hospitals, orphanages, colleges and relief agencies; and has been instrumental in the abolition of slavery, the promotion of women’s rights, and the end of child labour. These came when men and women, moved by God against the backdrop of God’s holy justice, decided to change the world. No other institution, organization, or grouping of humanity better displays the character of God than the Church. The purpose of the Church is to T manifest to the world the character of God. M
John Reimer is pastor of Community Bible Fellowship, Swan River, Man. He and wife Connie (with daughter Kayli) have lived and served in Swan River for eleven years. Earlier the Reimers served in Morris and Pleasant Valley, as well as missionaries in Nicaragua till forced out by civil war.
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Domestic Violence Counselling an intensive weekend course
Domestic Violence Counselling for pastors and lay leaders an intensive weekend October 16–18,course 2008 for pastors and lay leaders Guest ProfessorOctober Hali Reimer, M.A. 2008 16–18, Classes will be held Thursday Friday evening 7–10 p.m. Guestand Professor Hali Reimer, M.A. and Saturday 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. at SBC.
Classess will be held Thursday & Friday evening 7:00–10:00 pm Saturday 9:00–4:00 pm at SBC.
Cost: $88 audit or $176 credit
for more information or to register call Christal Cost: $88 audit or $176 credit 204.326.6451, e-mail admissions@sbcollege.ca, or on-line www.sbcollege.ca for more information or to register call Christal, 204.326.6451
email, admissions@sbcollege.ca or online, www.sbcollege.ca
January 5–23, 2009 • Romans January 5–23, 2009 • Romans Professor Corey Herlevsen, M.Div. Professor Herlevsen, M.Div. March 19–21, 2009 • Experienti al YouthCorey Ministry Professor Garth Friesen,March M.A. 19–21, 2009 • Experiential Y 50 PTH 12 N Steinbach, MB R5G 1T4 www.sbcollege.ca
Professor Garth Friesen, M.A.
TRU 2008
TRAIN • REFRESH • UNITE EMC youth leaders’ retreat October 17–19
Prepared for use inWilderness The Messenger, The Recorder, The Chron 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 October 1, 2008
The joy of the Lord
When my troubles and trials seem massive My praise and my thanks gone evasive I am absolutely convinced There’s no reason on Earth For joy to give birth In my thankless heart.
But when I turn right around And start stuttering my praise list out loud There comes to my heart a magical twinge And all of a sudden it bubbles like springs My hard heart is softened and changed; There’s a million reasons to praise.
Betty Barkman
writings shared Wannetta Fast
Lost Sons, Judy Clemens (Herald Press, 2008). Paper, 290 pp., $15.99 ISBN 978-0-8361-9429-6. Reviewed by Wannetta Fast (Kleefeld), a mystery buff.
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ost Sons is the story of a man who searches for his missing son in Russia and who discovers the story of Clayton Kratz, who disappeared in Russia decades earlier. This is a book that I couldn’t put down! I was impressed by its level of story telling and writing skill.
This is a book that I couldn’t put down! I was impressed by its level of story telling and writing skill. What makes this book especially intriguing is that the story weaves together actual history and fiction. The fiction is the story of Stan Windemere’s modern search for his son; the non-fiction is the actual story of Clayton Kratz (1896–1920), an American Mennonite THE MESSENGER October 1, 2008
Caught up in tumultuous, revolutionary times, Kratz was arrested and his fate is unknown—but he never came home. who as an early MCC relief worker served in “the relief program for Mennonites in south Russia following World War One” (GAMEO). Caught up in tumultuous, revolutionary times, Kratz was arrested and his fate is unknown—but he never came home. Through its interweaving, Lost Sons is both entertaining and educational. It gave me some insight into current and earlier times in Russia. To whom would I recommend this book? To high school students choosing titles for a book report, to Christian mystery buffs, and to people interested in Russian Mennonite history. I suspect that the story of Clayton Kratz—whose actual photo is on the cover—will stay with me for some T time. M 7
Facing PAIN in affirming
LIFE
T
Will Enns
ogether, my wife Ani and I have faced four Through it all, though, Ani and I are closer. deaths of parental figures. Her dad Frank We understand each other better. We feel more Hamm died of Hodgkin’s Disease, her mother with other people’s losses and they know it. We Anne died of cancer seven years later, and are wiser. We are more compassionate, although her step-father Peter Froese died by suicide in 2001. sometimes the busyness of my life makes me forget. Then, my father Cornelius died in 2003. This might be a cliché, but to really understand On a cold snowy February 24, 2003, my sister the fullness of life, the joy of life, the gift of life, I Nancy was shoveling Mom and Dad’s driveway when think one must experience the grief of death, the Mom came rushing outside and frantically called loss of death, and the pain of death. for her to check on Dad. He had been resting on the We avoid these feeling that death brings. We don’t recliner and had stopped breathing. It appears he like to talk about them. We turn the other way. We just fell into a peaceful sleep and didn’t wake up. make ourselves busy. We fill our lives with noise so Dad had been sick for a long time. I think he died that no quiet moments can give death an opportunity from the stress of carrying to make us feel the pain. the pain of literally hundreds In doing that, we miss valuable of people. People would come lessons that the experience of loss This might be a cliché, to him with their issues. As can give us—lessons that can help but to really understand a bishop of the Ontario Old us make better choices for our Colony Churches, he was an lives. the fullness of life, the incredibly wise and patient I think it is okay to go into the joy of life, the gift of man, slow to anger and experience of grief periodically— abounding in love. He loved not so that you can enter into life, I think one must people and people loved him. misery, but to enter into the experience the grief of Dealing with so many memory of what loss feels like. parental deaths has an impact It’s to be reminded of the lesson death, the loss of death, on us. of true perspective: What matters and the pain of death. It’s interesting that when the most? Do I invest into what you respond to pain and matters the most? suffering in a positive way it How quickly I forget! draws people closer and makes them better. I’m not I think sadness plays an important role in our life. saying this has been easy. The losses still come and It gives balance. If you look at someone who tries haunt us. to stay happy all the time, whether through drugs, They haunt us when we see grandparents alcohol, or a constant need to engage in radical scooping up their grandchildren in their arms. They behaviour, you will notice there is no peace in haunt us when my five-year-old says he doesn’t their life. No real harmony. They look happy and in remember Grandpa. They haunt us when we get control, but inside is a voice that tells them, “Got to together for Christmas. They haunt us when for no do this. Got to do that. Got to keep going.” What is reason at all we feel depressed. really controlling them? 8
THE MESSENGER October 1, 2008
On the other hand, to be sad all the time is just as unhealthy. I am no authority on this matter. I only offer what I have learned from my experiences. To be at peace with God, with yourself, with your neighbour is to embrace and work through all the different emotions that are sent our way through life’s journey. Such experience might be jubilation in a new birth or the pain of death, enjoyment of the sweet taste of candy or the bitterness of a grapefruit, hope of success or fear of failure, sadness in parting or the joy in reuniting. Whether the pain of a cut or the satisfaction of restored eyesight, all play a part
Will and Ani Enns and family
I am no authority on this matter. I only offer what I have learned from my experiences. To be at peace with God, with yourself, with your neighbour is to embrace and work through all the different emotions that are sent our way through life’s journey. in shaping us, but really our choice of response to these types of events will ultimately set the course for our lives. So why have all these things happened to us? We don’t know for sure. Ani and I aren’t always happy about it. We sometimes feel it is unfair. It has, however, motivated us to invest time with my mother and share in all her different experiences as an elderly widow. But I think generally speaking we are at peace and continue to use these events and others T to prepare us for things not yet seen. M Will Enns is a minister in Mount Salem EMC in southern Ontario.
with our missionaries Nicaragua
CINAG: ¡Un sueño hecho realidad! ¡Es un sueño hecho realidad! El 14 de febrero, CINAG recibió el aval del gobierno para el programa residencial. Fue emocionante recibir las primeras muchachas residente, experiencia que fue compartida con Lester y Darlene Olfert y voluntarios de la EMC. Habíamos orado mucho. ¡Gracias por todos que nos acompañaron en oración! Hemos recibido 28 niños. Han venido de trasfondos de abandono, descuido, abuso físico y sexual. Algunas han quedado en CINAG; otras han sido trasferidas a otros centros por el Ministerio de la Familia. Dos han vuelto a sus hogares. CINAG en unidad con la Fraternidad
Menonita y el apoyo de la EMC, ha desarrollado un ministerio a niños y niñas de las comunidades vecinas. Enfatizamos educación cristiana, formación de habilidades para la vida, atención psicológica, pre-escolar y nutrición. CINAG encuentra muchos desafíos. Hay leyes que proteja a la niñez, pero a veces no entendemos como esas leyes son aplicadas en casos específicos. El país se sumerge mas a la pobreza cada día. Precios suben, sueldos quedan bajos, el desempleo es alto causando desesperación en mucha gente. Esto afecta la manutención del programa residencial. Mala gobernabilidad ha robado, Mala gobernabilidad ha robado, matado matado y destruido la bendición de Dios. Han robado la vida plena de y destruido la bendición de Dios. Esto nuestra niñez. Esto ha producido ha producido una pandemia de muertes una pandemia de muertes infantiles, hambre, violencia y abuso. infantiles, hambre, violencia y abuso. Dependemos de la gracia
THE MESSENGER October 1, 2008
Elizabeth Vado
redentora de Dios para poder restaurar a estas niñas que no tienen hogar, familia o el amor verdadero de una madre o un padre. Son víctimas de la corrupción que destruye su inocencia, identidad y esperanza en un futuro mejor. (continued on p. 10)
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(continued from p. 9) CINAG depende de Dios que mueve corazones para seguir restaurando vidas. ¡Cuánto agradecemos a Dios por hermanos y hermanas que patrocinan
niñas: el programa de habilidades para la vida, clases Bíblicas y de música y manualidades. Contamos con un personal de educadoras, cocina, limpieza y administrativo capacitado que sirve con amor y paciencia; José Ramón conversa con niños del cuando se cansan o se sienten programa Habilidades para la Vida. estresados son renovados por Dios. Oren por esta digna labor. Hemos visto cambio en muchas muchachas. Algunas han recibido a Cristo. Hay menos agresividad y un mejor espíritu comunitario. Esta labor es lenta pero segura en Cristo. Existen muchas necesidades que cubrir por las 15 niñas en residencia, los 25 niños en el programa de habilidades, y los 21 niños pre-escolares. Agradecemos a todos que nos han apoyado. Les animo a que no nos dejen caminar solos.
Termino con una oración: Jesús, Maestro: Enséñanos a ser fieles a la voluntad del Padre. Ayúdanos a reconstruir la sociedad en que vivimos Ayúdanos a practicar la justicia, y a vivir la solidaridad A ser honestos, generosos y veraces A defender los derechos de los más débiles. Acompáñanos Señor, En el avance de tu reino Amén. Elizabeth Vado, director Lester Olfert añade: Donaciones para CINAG se puede mandar a Action International Ministries, 3015A 21st. Street N.E., Calgary, AB T2E 7T1; 1-888-443-2221. (For English translation, see Sept. 17 issue.)
South Africa
Three stones weighing on our hearts
A friend and prominent church leader came to my office, shared well in dialogue, and made good observations. I finally found someone who appreciates the wisdom of my counsel, I thought. After he left, I shamefully realized that I was wrong. That’s the kind of Christian I want to be, I said to myself. I want to be a listener; quick to tell the truth in love; I want to shine the Light of Jesus on the road of life to expose the way that leads to quality of life with God. Another worker, Isaak Myeni grew up near Mangwazana Mission where we served during all of 1990s. Long before that Rev. Myeni worked with pioneer TEAM missionaries and planted churches there. The last church that he served as pastor was Ekuseni, where we associated and helped on a monthly basis before moving to Durban. Rev. Isaak M. Myeni passed away on August 13, 2008, at 95. His children and offspring over three generations numbered the same as the years that he was privileged to live. Six hundred or so paid their last respect at the funeral, indicating that he has many more who
consider him their spiritual father. This is an end of an era: He is the last pastor who knew and worked with the first TEAM missionaries that came to Africa in the 1890s, some of whom served until the 1930s. Yes, we were recently in North America. TEAM sent us to their REAP (Re-entry, Evaluation and Preparation) conference in late July. It was good to catch up on changes and see the heartbeat of TEAM from a global perspective. Only another “hop” from southeast Manitoba, we flew to spend the August Long Weekend with family. There are three areas of opportunity where we need greater influence in the African church—stones weighing heavily on our hearts. Stone 1: To find more ways to stand with the church and address the problem and effects of HIV/ AIDS. This is an obligation for Christians. Together we can create change and lift the scourge. Together we must identify the HIVaffected homes and their needs, help the desperate and administer hope, minister sympathy and care to the dying, help the unsuspecting to change
Rev. Isaak Myeni
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There are three areas of opportunity where we need greater influence in the African church—stones weighing heavily on our hearts. their ways, help the overwhelmed relatives of orphans, and mentor a beyond reproach lifestyle to the formative. The affliction must be addressed by folk in their communities. Frequently we hear shock expressed over children having to be the heads of homes where parents are no longer. Stone 2: We can help the church reach out to denominations that have wandered from the truth to ancestral worship and other errors. We need to find ways to instruct leaders of erring faiths to become evangelical in doctrine and help them conduct revivals. Stone 3: We can help the church catch the vision of working cross-culturally in Mozambique, elsewhere farther north, and also in India. Current missionaries in these places are poorly respected and poorly supported. This door of opportunity is open now! Joe and Olga Reimer Joe and Olga Reimer (Blumenort) are in leadership with TEAM in South Africa.
THE MESSENGER October 1, 2008
with our churches
PFC says goodbye to long-time members Hudson Bay, Sask.: Pineridge Fellowship Chapel has been facing a decline in the congregation because two woodmills have closed and, therefore, employment must be found in other locations. Having faith, we must keep thriving; God will provide. In July we bid farewell to long-time, originating members of our church, Pat and Elmer Plett. Pletts have relocated to Saskatoon where they will be closer to their children and other people of their family. Approximately 25 people were present to bid Pletts’ farewell. As we arrived, one person per family was given a piece of cardboard and a marker on which we were to write a word that said what Pletts meant to them.
When everyone had arrived, we were told how instrumental Elmer and Pat were in establishing the church, and how they dedicated their time through the years in maintaining and bettering the church. Then each family proceeded to Pletts with the word and expressed their feelings. We then were then entertained with an illustration of how a potato gun, which Elmer invented, was supposed to work. Then it was time for coffee and lunch. We will miss them. In August was a birthday party for a long-time member of our congregation, Mrs. Nellie Smud. Nellie was 80 on August 15, and is in good health. A tea was held for her on August 16 with approximately 80 people coming to wish her a happy birthday. Kathy Purcell Elmer and Pat Plett have relocated to Saskatoon.
Grande Prairie’s youth travel to Costa Rica Grande Prairie, Alta.: One of our biggest highlights of the past nine months is that we have a new senior pastor. Dwight Munn came to us in January all the way from New Brunswick. Dwight brings with him his wife Sherry and daughters Alizabeth and Abagail. Dwight and Sherry have four other children who reside in various parts of Canada. They have three married children and 10 grandchildren. We are blessed to have them with us. Our youth had the privilege of going to Costa Rica on a missions trip this past Easter break. After much preparation and prayer, our exuberant youth were packing for the trip. As one hopes and prays that all will go smoothly, they were met with adverse weather conditions in Texas. Our group spent the night in the Dallas airport where they were presented with the opportunity to share why they were there, many times over. Our group finally arrived in La Fortuna on Saturday, having left Canada on Tuesday, March 18. The projects they were helping with included digging a trench, constructing a bathroom, painting, yard cleanup and more. They also presented one children’s program and two youth programs while they were there. This trip had an
THE MESSENGER October 1, 2008
impact on each youth in a different and powerful way. Our men enjoyed a quadding trip at the beginning of June. The machines were not limited to quads. Some brought dirt bikes, a rhino, and kid’s quads. Much mud was encountered and machines were put to the test. Our annual church camp was well attended. We got to know the new pastor and his family in a more casual environment and we enjoyed it thoroughly. As has been our custom we held our baptism during this time. We witnessed Michelle Glenn, Shane Wiebe, Owen Brandt, and Lena Penner be baptized by immersion upon the confession of their faith. Accepted into
Projects and programs kept youth busy in Costa Rica.
membership by transfer were Sam Christiansen and Christina Wilt. It was exciting to experience VBS, which we had not run for a number of years. The dedication and genuine love for our younger generation was displayed through our leaders and volunteers. We ran Veggie Tales’ The Pirates Who Don’t Do Anything program. All of the leaders and volunteers dressed in pirate gear. As church secretary, I did not get much office work done that week. I was involved in the program and had an awesome time seeing and feeling the enthusiasm of all. It was a noisy week! The following week felt quiet here. As September is upon us, we are gearing up for our season of programs. I often have the privilege of seeing the Lord at work in our members and staff. It is humbling and inspiring. I thank God and pray that we will not grow weary in His work until the end of time, when he calls his servants home. “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us” (Hebrews 12:1). Ruby Fehr
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SEMC block party Steinbach EMC (Man.): Our church had planned a block party as a local outreach event for the evening of Saturday, September 6 at the local K. R. Barkman Park here in Steinbach. However, after checking various weather forecasts numerous times, it was decided that afternoon to change the venue to our building. After pushing back the pews in the sanctuary, moving the food, band set up and the bouncer and arranging tables and chairs in various parts of the building, we were ready. Food service, with barbecuing courtesy of several gentlemen from the Men’s Ministry (thanks!) began at 5:30. A local band, My Name is Nobody, played as food was served to approximately 250 people. The setting was informal with people eating in the gym, sanctuary, and atrium. After supper, we had face painting and a large inflatable bouncer in the atrium, games in the gym lead by the youth group; and a second band, Soul Purpose, entertained those who chose to listen in the sanctuary. All events were wrapped up at about 8:30 p.m., and by 9 everything was pretty much back to normal, ready for the next morning’s worship service.
Because of the help and cooperation of numerous volunteers, all went smoothly; and we were encouraged to try again next year, hoping for better weather the next time. Thanks to all from the worship arts committee. By the way, going inside turned out to be the right decision as the rain started at about 7 p.m. Anna Plett
SBC students put faith into action What do the numbers 43, 315, 27, and 16 have in common? They all relate to the ministry that Steinbach Bible College students were engaged in over this past summer. We had 43 students work a total of 315 weeks in 27 different ministries, including 16 camps. Whether it was leading a recreation program at camp, ministering to orphans in Haiti, or teaching Bible stories to students in the Bahamas, many of our students are coming back to college this year with stories
SBC’s mission is focused on equipping students to be servant leaders for Church ministries. 12
of how God was able to use them in Kingdom ministry. For many students the learning they experienced in the classroom has been expanded as they put their new concepts and skills into action. SBC’s mission is focused on equipping students to be servant
leaders for Church ministries. Supporting this mission is a new bursary program introduced this past spring. The Summer Ministry Bursary offers returning students $150/week of ministry service and new students $100/week. This bursary partners with the home church and the ministry agency to match that amount, providing the student with a possible $6,750 gift for a summer of ministry. Join us in praising our God for the practical learning accomplished this past summer. SBC
SBC dean Dalen Kroeker visited students Audrey Martens and Cassandra Ducharme while they worked at Winkler Bible Camp.
THE MESSENGER October 1, 2008
by the way Dave K. Schellenberg
A
Beyond retirement, how do we deal with inaction?
ging isn’t all sunshine! How often have you heard remarks like this from an older person? This, of course, can be for a variety of reasons: ill health, lack of mobility, lack of ambition, loneliness, and idle time. Paul Tournier, a medical doctor and a thoughtful Christian, makes this observation: “What is important for the aged is not what they are still able to do, nor yet what they have accumulated and cannot take with them. It is what they are. This is the cause of the dreadful feeling of uselessness that so deeply bothers most elderly people.” He gives maybe one of the root causes of this feeling when he says: “All those concepts of our modern Western civilization, in which effective action is held above all, contribute to their plight.” I think for most of us older folks aging boils down to the feeling that we are no longer providing “effective action.” We didn’t give adequate time to think about that in our working years. It, in a way, comes upon us unaware. We can hardly imagine it: leisure time, idleness, nothing to do but to stare into space. This is something we could rarely have imagined when we were in the work force and eagerly looked forward to holidays, weekends, or retirement. But now it hits us hard. I was well past 65 when I gave my job as Executive Secretary and editor of The Messenger to a younger person. However, through my writing and church reporting I still had good contact.
I also had contact with our EMC national office through being involved in the archives; our EMC Archives is located in the same building where before I made The Messenger. This provided for a gradual leave-taking; it combated that feeling of “uselessness” referred to by Dr. Tournier. Never have I felt that the office staff objected to my presence, though my case could be an exception. To deal with a feeling of uselessness, it helps me to busy myself: cook soup, visit at Woodhaven, go to the library, do some writing, bake a batch of cookies, or go shopping. I realize that not all seniors can take part in such events. But I thank God for the abilities I still have. But there is another thing I want to bring to the attention of the aged. As we are able let us do what the Psalmist did when he was depressed when he said in Psalm 77:11: I will remember your great deeds, LORD; I will recall the wonders you did in the past. I will think about all you have done; I will meditate on all your mighty acts. And the following verses reveal that he did just that. He mentions God’s salvation of the descendants of Jacob and Joseph and how with Moses and Aaron He led His people like a shepherd. Today I also can look back and marvel at how God again and again led—through the wilderness as it were, my wife and me, sometimes through uncharted waters, and went before us as we took what we perceived to be T His call. M
I think for most of us older folks aging boils down to the feeling that we are no longer providing “effective action.”
THE MESSENGER October 1, 2008
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Mark Noll to address state of Christianity in Canada, Oct. 21–22 Canadian Christians spend a lot of time thinking and talking about the state of the church in the U.S. But what does Christianity in Canada look like to Americans? A Yankee Looks North: Toward an Appreciation and Assessment of the History of Christianity in Canada is a four-part lecture series by acclaimed U.S. author and scholar Dr. Mark Noll at Canadian Mennonite University in Winnipeg, Man., on Oct. 21–22. Noll, professor of history at the University of Notre Dame and author of many books, including A History of Christianity in the United States and Canada, is this year’s speaker at CMU’s annual J. J. Thiessen Lectures. In his first lecture What Happened to Christian Canada? Noll will talk about how Christianity has changed over the past 40 years in this country. “Into the 1960s, Canada enjoyed much higher rates of church participation
Dr. Mark Noll
and displayed a greater deference to traditional Christian morality than the United States,” he says. “This situation has changed dramatically in the last 40 years.” In the lecture, Noll will try to describe the nature of these changes. In his second lecture What Happened to Christian Canada? Noll will provide a historical and theological reflection on the rapid and recent changes in Canadian religious and cultural life. In particular, Noll will try to answer questions such as: “Was ‘Christian Canada’ of the mid-century actually, or only culturally, Christian? Might decline in church attendance, loss of political hegemony, and marginalization in education actually be good for true Christianity? And does the more obvious religiosity of the United States really say anything about the presence or absence of genuine faith?” In his third lecture Noll will reflect on the life and academic career of the late George A. Rawlyk, who served for many years as chair of the history department at Queen’s University and who, until his untimely death in 1995, was a key promoter of serious academic scholarship on the history of Christianity in Canada. In his fourth lecture, Noll will explain why Rawlyk’s scholarship and his personal Christian character made such a difference to how he personally came to look at Canada, the United States, the church in America, and the tasks of Christian scholarship. Noll’s first lecture takes place October 21, 10:30 a.m.; the second is October 21, 7:30 p.m.; the third is October 22, 10:30 a.m., and the fourth is October 22, 7:30 p.m. The lectures will be held in the CMU chapel (south campus), 600 Shaftesbury Blvd. Admission is free. CMU
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. For all pastors, associates, ministers, missionaries (active or retirees), elders, deacons, and spouses. Contact Barry or Norine Plett, 204-326-1644, barry.blumemc@mts.net
www.emconf.ca
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coming events 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. 6
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 Main speaker: Evelyn Barkman Prairie Rose EMC Landmark, Man. Register through your church
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. 14
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! THE MESSENGER October 1, 2008
shoulder tapping The EMC seeks a full- or part-time archivist to fill the equivalent of a one-year 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,
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.
THE MESSENGER October 1, 2008
Full text of ads available at www.emconf.ca/service.htm
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 306595-2074. 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@ masterconveyors.com; or Danny Dick, ministerial chair, at 519-326-4584. 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. 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. 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 e-mailed to kim@redrockbiblecamp.com or faxed to 204-348-7081. 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. 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.
Holiday Travel presents Eastern Europe: Mennonite Heritage Ukraine and Historical Russia May 18–June 5, 2009 Deadline March 15 South America: Bolivia Oct. 12–26, 2009 Deadline August 15 Contact tour host Len Loeppky Phone 204-326-2613 aloeppky@mts.net www.holiday-travel.ca
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I will never forget my passion for
Afghanistan!
R
Rebecca Loewen
ugged, yet proud, the mountains of Afghanistan surround its dusty borders. Among the hopelessness of the people, there is a hope that most have yet to discover. To me, it was my home, my life, and now my past. After four long years there, Afghanistan has leaped into my heart and has found a hiding place. That life has played a major role in my life, especially my spiritual life. You can’t realize how passionate you are about something till you lose it. Living in Afghanistan was like drinking a cold glass of water. I took it for granted. It was where I lived and I was just living my life. Going on a short-term visit and living in a foreign country is not the same thing. You become familiar with your surroundings and soon forget your purpose there. You soon begin to blend and grow to love the people. It’s just home. Working in meaningful ways was always part of my everyday life and became so natural I soon didn’t feel like I was using my whole heart. The dry, gritty taste of sand on my tongue and the smell of rotting meat is actually something that can be
missed. The haunting, yet beautiful, call of the mosque is replaced by a silent fear, creeping like a black mist. I have a strong passion for the land of Afghanistan, the land and life left behind. Now it’s time to move on and forget the regrets of my past before I regret missing out on my life here. We are also working in meaningful ways here among our own people. While doing that here, however, I will never forget T my passion for Afghanistan. M
Living in Afghanistan was like drinking a cold glass of water. I took it for granted. Have you heard about the Micah Challenge? It’s an international response to poverty rooted in Micah 6:8 and developed by the Micah Network and the World Evangelical Alliance. The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada is a part of it, and the EMC is part of EFC. Information is available at www.micahchallenge.ca. PAGE 16
Rebecca Loewen (Blumenort), back left, is a high school student who formerly lived in Afghanistan, where her father, Arley Loewen (Ph.D., Persian Studies) directed a non-governmental organization (NGO) project. THE MESSENGER Evangelical Mennonite Conference 440 Main Street Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 Publications Mail Agreement #40017362 PAP Registration #9914