The Messenger Vol. 47 No. 11 June 10, 2009

THE

MESSENGER

a publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference

volume 47, number 11 June 10, 2009

www.emconf.ca/Messenger

GUEST EDITORIAL

Why Abundant Springs?

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hy does the Evangelical Mennonite Conference continue to unapologetically hold a national denominational youth conference every two years?

When I first started in the position of Conference Youth Minister ten years ago this question was never asked. It was an accepted fact that Abundant Springs was an important tradition that needed to carry on.

More recently I have heard numerous people ask this question with an underlying assumption that the value of a denominational event has all but disappeared in place of the growing generic ecumenical events that have popped up in cities all across North America.

I have always encouraged youth leaders across the country to take advantage of local youth conferences, affirming the importance of gathering together with hundreds or thousands of other students to worship the Lord. Unfortunately for us, as a national conference it is challenging to bring all our students together to one central location such as what happens with Abundant Springs (see sidebar).

With all that said, I am convinced that there are many reasons why we need to continue running this denominational event. I have had the privilege of attending eight

EDITOR Terry M. Smith tsmith@emconf.ca

ASSISTANT EDITOR Rebecca Buhler

rbuhler@emconf.ca

Address changes and submissions to The Messenger should be sent to messenger@emconf.ca MESSENGER SCHEDULE: No. 13 – July 22 (copy due July 3)

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Abundant Springs events in my lifetime and these are some of the reasons it has so much value.

Let’s begin with the students themselves.

While many may initially see this as just another youth conference to attend, the travel to Caronport itself presents an opportunity to build relationships with other EMC youth groups on the eight-hour bus ride (many of the Manitoba groups travel together on charter buses).

Once they arrive and meet hundreds of other EMC students from across the country they see the strength that comes from unity amidst the vast diversity of our Conference.

I am approached by youth leaders regularly throughout the four-day event who tell me they have been so blessed to have connected with their own students in special ways (like scheduled youth group times); but also with other leaders whom they have built relationships with over the years.

At an event like this or TRU, our youth leaders’ retreat, they are able to encourage one another based on foundations that include a common church background, theology, and purpose.

The very content of our songs, sessions, offering projects, seminars, games, and even the talent

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 are welcomed. Unpublished material is not returned except by request.

Views and opinions of writers are their own and do not necessarily represent the position of the Conference or the editors.

THE MESSENGER is published twice a month (once a month in July and August) by the EMC Board of Church Ministries, 440 Main St., Steinbach, Man.

show are uniquely flavoured with Anabaptist theology and Conference perspectives.

The discipleship that happens throughout the weekend is led by men and women who are passionate about God and how he is at work within our small denomination just as much as he is at work around the world.

Every year we raise funds for a needy cause that is connected to our Conference work around the world. A total of $3,200 was given this year to help Project Builders start more business ventures for teens in Tajikistan. Other projects have included camping equipment for students in Paraguay, latrines for communities in Nicaragua, and shoes for boys and girls in Afghanistan.

God is doing a special work in the lives of our students and it is a joy to provide them with a weekend like Abundant Springs that is an important part of their spiritual journey.

Enjoy the testimonies of baptismal candidates this summer and notice how many of them point to Abundant Springs as a key event T in their spiritual lives. M Gerald D. Reimer EM Conference Youth Minister

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MESSENGER

On-line edition available at www.emconf.ca/Messenger

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Financial picture The cost to run Abundant Springs topped $120,000 this year. What this means is that students did a pile of fund-raising to cover the costs of food and lodging, program, and travel costs. This does not include the dozens of ladies who baked thousands of cookies so that we could enjoy snack each night before bed. A sincere thank you goes out to all who helped make this event possible.

Why Caronport, Saskatchewan?

Abundant Springs has been held in several different locations over the years but has settled on the Briercrest campus for the past 20 years or so.

While there are several reasons for this, the primary reason is a central location for the majority of our denominational churches.

However, the dynamics of our conference are changing. Two years ago we invited a youth leader couple from southern Ontario to join us at Abundant Springs to gain an understanding of this national youth event. They returned with a goal of bringing several groups with them this year. But with an economic downturn that has hit the region hard, there were no groups able to make the costly 30-hour trip.

Is it time to hold the event in a new location that is more convenient for our changing national picture? Should we consider holding separate events in different parts of the country? These are questions we need to consider as we grapple with changing needs.

Gerald D. Reimer Time and effort A special thanks to the National Youth Committee! This team of youth workers has been working extremely hard, meeting 15 times over the last 18 months, preparing for Abundant Springs.

With each meeting running around three hours in length, not including travel time, the eight-member committee has put in around 400 people-power hours into planning national youth-related events, with the majority of that time dedicated to Abundant Springs. This does not include the hundreds of hours that were spent by these and other sub-committees that worked to prepare messages, seminars, games, and dozens of other details.

We also need to consider the weekend itself. The committee and other administration, including the worship team, travel to Caronport 24 hours before the event starts. They spend the time setting up and preparing for the arrival of the 700 students and leaders.

Once the event begins the administrative personnel are going full-throttle from 7 a.m. until 1 a.m. (and longer for some who stay in the dorm with their students). By the end of these five emotionally and physically exhausting days, everyone’s tanks are, no doubt, empty!

Who is on the NYC? Bryon Bezanson (Cornerstone, Swift Current), Mo Friesen (Steinbach EFC), Danae Gibbons (Braeside), Tim Gibbons (Braeside), David Kruse (Fort Garry), Trenton Penner (Steinbach), Nathan Plett (Prairie Rose), Gerald Reimer (Conference Youth Minister).

Youth trends

Speaking with a medical doctor recently, I was told that more than ever before in his practice he is seeing students come in struggling with depression. This current generation of youth has more available to them than ever before, and yet lead lives that are too often empty of what really matters in life: a vibrant relationship with Jesus, a peaceful relationship with parents, a mature understanding of God’s Word, the support of other believers.

Abundant Springs made a shift some years ago to move away from an entertainment-based program to a discipleship program. Our goal has been to see that all aspects of the program help point students to Jesus within the confines of healthy relationships with other caring believers.

That is why we provide, among other things, a Pastoral Care Team and a Counsellor in Residence Attendance at Abundant Springs this year was 688 people throughout the weekend. These in total. Of those, 505 were students and the rest were leaders, individuals were busy the entire administration and invited guests. The youth groups came weekend and we praise the Lord for from 33 churches, and all regions were represented except many victories won!

Region Nine (Southern Ontario).

Who was there?

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isn’t about teenagers Rev. Terry M. Smith

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hat is Abundant Springs about?

It isn’t about teenagers. Many EMCers might be forgiven, though, for making that assumption.

Such a mistake makes partial sense. After all, since at least 1983 the event has been overseen by the National Youth Committee; and for the past decade it has been a key task within the administrative portfolio of EM Conference Youth Minister Gerald Reimer.

Teenagers are, indeed, integral to Abundant Springs.

Take this year, for instance. More than 500 teens traveled from dozens of EM churches spread across four provinces (Ontario wasn’t represented). Teens are targeted for this event, planned for, prayed for, welcomed, loved.

Yet, as important as they are, teenagers are not what Abundant Springs is all about. At least, this is what I have concluded after attending the event six times (and being the parent of a young man who attended three times).

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As important as they are, teenagers are not what Abundant Springs is all about.

Abundant Springs this year involved (mostly) mothers and grandmothers baking or buying “thousands” of cookies (by Gerald Reimer’s count) to ensure people are fed and perhaps to reduce event costs.

It is about youth pastors, sponsors, and leaders foregoing a relaxing May long weekend to instead go forth to travel seven, 13, or 20 hours by bus or other vehicle to Caronport, Sask.

Then, for many, it includes returning home to work or study the next day (though exhausted). And for many teens and leaders it includes an inner commitment to again go through the effort and lack of sleep in two years’ time. Why? It’s because ultimately Abundant Springs isn’t about teenagers.

Abundant Springs involves the National Youth Committee, whose members on an average basis are likely the hardest-working of any board or committee in our conference. They spend two years planning for the event. Then they pack their bags to head home to wrap up post-event details, take a deep breath, and begin preparing for the next one.

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The weekend includes senior pastors, associate and youth pastors, Sunday school teachers, members, parents, and other adults being caught up in fundraising efforts to allow teens and leaders to attend. They work, donate, and spend. Why? Abundant Springs involves groups debriefing after the event, reporting in congregations, recalling the highs of intense feelings and excitement and then dealing with re-entry into what life brings, processing what has happened and continuing to follow Jesus (as speaker Sid Koop and other leaders remind young people).

The occasion involves about 200 adults in attendance: youth leaders, youth and senior pastors, worship leaders, security personnel, sound system staff, pastoral care givers, a counselor, prayer team supporters, a nurse, and many other behind-the-scenes workers. The leaders dealt with skipping teens, an occasional broken bone or a sprain, and more. Why? Abundant Springs includes worship services. This year, for instance, Mo Friesen, associate pastor at Steinbach EFC, seemed to be in his element as he led those present in a fast-paced, high-decibel intricate liturgy with clear expectations as to what should happen.

The convention involves entertainment and games (this year a talent show, a concert, a mime artist), but (continued on p. 6)

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they are not, as such, what the weekend is about.

Abundant Springs includes the Bible college movement: the Spirit of God motivating His people to establish training institutions so that Christians might be better equipped to go near and far to live out and bring the good news of Christ. The EMC has been involved in this movement since about the 1930s.

The event was held this year, as in many times before, on the campus of Briercrest Family of Schools.

This transformed former military airport is symbolic of how earthly empires will ultimately give way to the Kingdom of God at the return of Christ (Revelation 11:15).

Representatives of Briercrest welcomed staff from Steinbach Bible College; leaders and presenters served together who have trained in colleges and seminaries across Canada and elsewhere.

Abundant Springs involves the Evangelical Mennonite Conference; it’s an event deliberately and unapologetically focused on EMCers (as Gerald Reimer would say). Yet it is more.

This year it included seminar presenters from the Evangelical Mennonite Mission and the Chortitzer Mennonite conferences, a speaker (returning from 2003) who serves part-time in an Evangelical Free Church, a guitarist from Calvary Chapel (in Steinbach), and the still wider Christian Church.

Abundant Springs included Pastor David Kruse’s sharing with curious visitors to Caronport, explaining that the event’s name comes from Jesus’ encounter with the woman at the well (John 4).

The weekend involves joining with biblical figures such as Joseph (a video by Anola Fellowship Chapel) and church history leaders such as Menno Simons (a video by David Kruse of Fort Garry EMC). Look at the theme: Finding Our Place in God’s Story (as Gerald

The convention involves games, including life-size Dutch Blitz.

Reimer would remind us).

What is Abundant Springs about?

It’s about Jesus and His Church past, present, and future.

It’s a biennial event that recognizes that teens are, or are called to be, part of Christ’s Church; as such, they are to see themselves within it and yet look beyond themselves to the service of others through Christ (as speaker Sid Koop and the donation project emphasized).

As Pastor Mo Friesen said on Sunday morning, EM churches were gathering then across Canada and young people at Abundant Springs were joining with them. Together teens and leaders sang a hymn chosen because, though absent, most older people would appreciate it—a symbolic act of being one in Christ.

Abundant Springs is about being Christ’s disciples together; it’s an event where the glory of Christ is revealed through his corporate people.

Abundant Springs is about being Christ’s disciples together; it’s an event where the glory of Christ is revealed through his corporate people.

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That’s why about 700 people journeyed to a Bible college campus; the central figure of the Bible is Jesus.

It is why it has inspirational sessions focused on challenging people to follow Jesus, rather than ultimately empty motivational sessions focused on economic pyramid schemes or naked human potential.

This is why EMC members in dozens of places interceded, sweated, laboured, and sacrificed in so many ways.

So what is Abundant Springs about?

It is about each 17-year-old in 1983 in Regina (the site of likely the first national EMC youth conference) who is now 43 years old—perhaps today a parent or a grandparent.

And it is just as much about the 43-year-old following the Lord today (and influencing older and younger generations) as it is about earlier spiritual generations who influenced them as a teenager.

The older Paul said years ago to young Timothy, “For I am mindful of the sincere faith within you, which first dwelt in your grandmother Lois, and your mother Eunice, and I am sure that it is in you as well. And for this reason I remind you to kindle afresh the gift of God which is in you” (2 Timothy 1:5–6).

Abundant Springs is about Jesus and His T Church. M Note: This article was prepared before and independent of Gerald Reimer’s article.

1981, 1983, or earlier?

When was the first national EMC youth conference?

The Abundant Springs T-shirts available this year listed 1981. The National Youth Committee made a judgment call between 1981 and 1983.

What does The Messenger say?

T Editor Dave Schellenberg reported in JuneM 3, 1983, “The first national EMC youth conference is now history.”

It was held on May 20-23 in Regina with “almost 300 young people, and maybe 70 others.” The emcee was Jim Harms, the speaker was John Barkman, and the musician was Michael Card.

However, from 1974 to 1982 an EMC Sno-Camp (sometimes reported as Snow Camp) was held yearly on a February weekend with young people and leaders present from Manitoba and even wider. The EMC Youth Committee was in charge. Then, more than now, the bulk of our churches were located in one province.

As well, in November 21, 1969, Rev. Dave Schellenberg estimated the EMC had for “maybe” a decade held EMC Student-Minister Fellowship events for post-secondary students.

And in November 7, 1969, Helen Dueck reported that “an estimated 500 young people” attended a missions conference “geared toward non-denominational youth” on October 10–12 held in Steinbach.

Terry Smith (Thanks to John Sawatzky for help!)

Biblical mime helps us to understand the Word! Daniel Julien

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have also spoken by the prophets, and I have multiplied visions; and by the hand of the prophets use parables” (Hosea 12:10, literal).

Scripture demonstrates that God uses dramatic expression to communicate His will and His word. Among many forms we find mime. Mime (or pantomime) is listed 40 times in the Bible; however, there are other appearances of Jewish

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mime, including Ezekiel 3:26, Jeremiah 13:1–14, 1 Kings 11:30–40, 2 Kings 13:15–19, Isaiah 20:1–6, Hosea 2–3, Acts 21:10–13, Revelation 18:21.

Jewish mime uses stylised gestures to communicate a thought, story, truth, or prophecy. Generally mime was only used by prophets to communicate the Word of the Lord, though some mimes were done in praise and worship (Psalm 149:6–9, Exodus 15:20).

Jewish mime is not related to modern white-faced mime or the masked Greek/Roman mime. Here the word is used in the generic, widest sense: a silent gestural communication. However, the word mime or mimetic best describes the willed and developed actions of prophets. (continued on p. 8)

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The gestures are highly stylised and placed in specific order to support a concise thought.

Prophetic mime was delivered as actions without words (Ezekiel 3:26, 4:1–3), actions with words preceding or following (2 Kings 13:14–19), and actions with words at the same time (Acts 21:10–13).

Prophetic mime shows us that God does not only speak to us through words but through gestures. Hosea 12:10 reveals three voices for revealing His Word: uttered, revealed, dramatic.

Eighty per cent of communication is non-verbal. This makes the message delivered with mime powerfully clear to humanity as a whole. Mime involves the observer’s eye gate. God used mime even when people would no longer listen to the spoken word alone.

An Example of Jewish Mime Ezekiel was able to speak during the early years of his ministry only when God spoke through him saying, “Thus saith the Lord.” The rest of the time he was silent and mimed his prophecies. Seen throughout his ministry, over one-third of his prophecies are in mime and parable.

And you, son of man, take a brick to yourself, and lay it before you, and engrave on it a city, Jerusalem. And lay a siege on it, and build a fort on it, and pour out a ramp on it. And place a camp on it, and set battering rams all around on it. And you, take a griddle of iron to yourself, and place it as a wall of iron between you and the city. And place your face against it, and it shall be under siege, and thrust upon it. It is a sign to the house of Israel. And you, lie down on your left side, and lay the iniquity of the house of Israel on it. The number of the days that you shall lie down on it, you shall bear their iniquity (Ezekiel 4:1–3).

We see how Ezekiel is commanded to enact the capture and defeat of Jerusalem. He is to do so in silence. The prophecy is fulfilled in 2 Kings 23:28– 25:30 and 2 Chronicles 35:2–36:23.

Mimetic movement is used in everything from the simplest expression of life to expressing the cornerstones of our faith (such as communion).

Therefore, a study in mime and gesture can lead to a greater understanding of the Word and our greater T devotion to God in praise and worship. M Daniel Julien is a Christian mime who serves under Silent Witness Productions.

teaching

M

any words were heard. Together they continue to shape the story of each hearer along the lines of God’s big story.

Most everyone present will have heard Sid Koop’s intense exposition of the Scriptures. Smaller groups will have heard from seminar leaders who care about youth and about the topics they teach. Smaller groups, still, will have heard from their own leaders during youth group times. But perhaps the most important hearing was what happened between individuals.

Sid Koop helped us see God’s character and desires for us through his examination of biblical characters, Paul’s teachings and (hilarious!) illustrations from family life.

Seminar leaders addressed many topics of interest and concern for youth.

Speaker Sid Koop

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David Kruse

Seminar presenters Garry Blatz and Glenn Loewen

• Teachers “burst the North American bubble” of privilege to challenge us to serve the poor; • Gave us the big picture of God’s story through the Hebrew Scriptures and Jesus; • “Blew up some incorrect assumptions” about what salvation is (“Follow Me”) and what it costs; • Opened our spiritual eyes to what God is doing in the suffering of our Christian siblings in China and how the Spirit is inviting us to participate in God’s life; • Modeled a passion for sexual purity and THE MESSENGER June 10, 2009

helped youth understand the implications of dating relationships; • Explored the role of doubt and faith at various stages in life; • Examined the role of the arts in the Bible; • Demonstrated music’s role in worship; • Worked through a New Testament passage to show how to memorize; • Illustrated principles for making godly decisions; • And helped youth leaders care for disconnected youth.

Through the seminars, students got to hear good ideas and scriptural truth applied. That changes how people think, and therefore what they do, so we are changing the world!

Youth groups spent time with each other to talk and pray about what God was doing in them. Leaders spoke words of affirmation and blessing to individuals in front of their groups and challenged them in what they might do next.

In the setting of these small group times some shared significant hurts, confided struggles, prayed, and cried. Youth also came alongside each other to talk and pray outside of any formal meetings. One example encouraged me, especially: A teen was answering theological questions for another teen. The first one went to ask a youth leader to pray for the conversation.

Afterward, he came to report that a lot of good stuff got talked about, then added soberly, “It was awesome!”

How are the words from Abundant Springs telling a new story in the lives of our youth? Ask them!

Ask what they remember now from the weekend’s teaching.

Ask what they’re thinking about now that comes from times of reflection, singing, talking, and prayer at Abundant Springs.

T Ask them, and share something from your own story. M

David Kruse gives seminar descriptions and directions.

Seminars held Of course I’m saved…right? (Garry Blatz) Beaten, tortured, and anointed for the King (Glenn Loewen) Godly decision-making (Patrick Friesen) I have my doubts (Dr. Terry Hiebert) Healthy sexuality (Fiona Thiessen, Dallas Kornelsen) The Bible at a glance (Dave Reimer) God’s Word: Is it in you? (Gerald Reimer) Mission: God’s heart for the world (Jared Schroeder) Serving God with your talents (Daniel Julien) Music seminars (Amanda Falk, Article One)

David Kruse is a National Youth Committee member.

Manitoba’s Passion Play July 9, 10, 11, 12 7:30 PM Nightly

Oak Valley Outdoor Theatre La Riviere, MB Ph: 204-242-3160 www.passionplay.ca THE MESSENGER June 10, 2009

$15 - Adult (Advance) $17 - Adult Gate $ 6 - Youth (<12) $13 - Groups (10 +)

Going to MWC assembly in Paraguay?

If you are planning to attend the Mennonite World Conference in Paraguay please call the EMC national office to tell us of your plans. A gathering of all EMC people will take place during one day of the MWC with a planned tour of EMC involvements in the Asuncion area. More details will be given shortly.

Please email kzacharias@emconf.ca with your travel plans.

Ken Zacharias Foreign Secretary

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Beaten, tortured, and anointed for the King

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he passion, power, prayer life, and relevancy of the persecuted church have been on my mind.

In January 2008 a friend said, “Glenn, I think you should join us in our trip to Vietnam and China.” When I heard the price tag, my heart sank. But the money came in miraculously and I was on my way.

We met Vietnamese and Chinese brothers whose stories were incredible. We encountered a 30-yearold leader who, at 13, traversed the Chinese countryside with a 15-yearold and planted 500 churches in two years. He was imprisoned again in March but miraculously released.

I met a God-filled Vietnamese pastor who spent about three years in prison. For six months they put him in a dungeon. He killed mosquitoes and used their (or his) blood to paint a Bible verse on a wall. This process took him four months. The authorities made him wash it off. It was an honour to be squeezed beside him in a van, worshipping God in song and prayer.

Difficult times are coming to us in the West. How can we prepare? Will the Holy Spirit fire that’s burning in these “hot spots” come to us? Or is it here as young people are pressing into the heart of God? What will it take for God to send a revival to us?

Why can we pack out a building hosting a Christian concert, but have only three people show up to meet Jesus at a prayer meeting?

This will change. We’re going to witness some radical shifts. Jesus Christ is jealous for a bride whose eyes are fixed on Him alone, burning with holy fire.

Glenn Loewen

The fire of passion, intercession, worship, intimacy, miracles, power, and the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings are part of this.

This begins with The Gift of Desire, where boring, sterile, powerless Christianity is shelved. Desiring God more than money, sports, entertainment, the world’s pleasures, is probably the most powerful gift the Holy Spirit can pour upon us.

Like C. S. Lewis said, “The problem with us Christians is not that we desire pleasure; the problem is we’re satisfied with far too little.”

Pursuing the greatest pleasure of our lives, Jesus Christ—the Lover of the Ages—is the kind of offensive Christianity that God is stirring up.

A Chinese brother reflected this intimacy by asking me, “How’s your honeymoon with Jesus?”

The greatest thing we do for Jesus is bowing low at His feet in reverent worship, love-sick surrender, and reckless abandonment. In this posture, true Spirit-filled ministry begins to happen. There is coming a day when our zealous Judge, our sovereign King, and our passionate Bridegroom will no longer resist His bride’s cries!

The wedding of the Ages will take place, the Lamb’s marriage supper! The Spirit of God is stirring His church to intercession, prayer, fasting, true worship, and total surrender. Again, it begins with the gift of desire.

Go ahead and cry out with Paul, “I want to know Christ, the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings!” Go for it, young people! And those of us who are older, let’s not kick back in the bleachers. Things are going to get intense. Let’s get ready T and press into His heart! M

Why can we pack out a building hosting a

Christian concert, but

have only three people show up to meet Jesus at a prayer meeting?

Glenn Loewen is pastor of Portage Evangelical Church.

Celebrate with us!

The 50 anniversary of Island Gospel Fellowship th

October 9–11, 2009, Burns Lake, B.C. For more information visit www.islandgospelfellowship.com or contact Bill Bueckert at 250-692-3362 or Mike Watson at 250-692-3129 One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts (Ps. 145:4).

Youth leaders’ gathering

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Bible at a glance

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e know most of the key stories in Scripture, but we don’t know the story well. How do the different stories in Scripture fit together to make up the one story of God’s interaction with humankind?

The first two chapters of Scripture tell about God creating all things. He develops the heavens and the earth from a formless mess to a functional thing of beauty. The highlight of His creation is people. He has invested His image in them and He will receive a return on His investment. He has also given them a purpose to rule the world on His behalf. When He is done creating, at the end of chapter 2, he evaluates. It’s very good and it’s innocent. And the seventh day was never supposed to end.

In chapter 3, God hands His creation over to us. Our first act is to sin. Our second act listed is murder. Next is a serial killer. By chapter 6 “every inclination of the thoughts of man’s heart was only evil all the time” and we have returned the world back to a formless ball of water.

Noah’s first act off the ark will be to recommit Adam’s sin in as much detail as possible.

The rest of Scripture is the story of God working to redeem mankind and to bring them back into purpose and relationship with Himself. He does this through a series of covenants. These covenants provide an outline for Scripture.

The Abraham Covenant. Somewhere around 2000 BC, God calls Abraham into a special relationship with Himself. The God who is set apart (holy) will set apart a people for Himself. He will be their God; they will be His people. This covenant is a family covenant and it focuses around a promise. God will bless Abraham and His family and God will bless all people through him. This covenant is passed down through Abraham’s descendents: Isaac, Jacob, and then Judah and Joseph. Joseph brings the chosen people down to Egypt where they stay for 400 years. All of this happens in the book of Genesis.

The Moses Covenant. Somewhere around 1500 BC, God uses Moses as a leader to bring His people out of Egypt and back to the land He had promised to Abraham.

By now the family has become a nation. God assembles them at Mt Sinai and establishes a national covenant with them. He will be their God; they will be His people.

This covenant comes with a series of stipulations (commandments) and consequences for keeping or breaking those stipulations. Joshua will bring the nation into the promised land. Then the people will be ruled by a series of 12 judges over a period of 400 years. During this time there was no king in Israel. Everyone did as he saw fit. These stories are told in Exodus-Deuteronomy and Joshua and Judges (and Ruth).

The David Covenant. Just before 1000 BC, God established a royal covenant with David. God would

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Dave Reimer

rule His people through a king.

God promised that David would never cease to have a son seated on the throne over God’s people. Saul, David, and Solomon (Shalom—Prince of Peace) ruled over a united Israel for 120 years.

After Solomon’s death the nation was split in two. The northern 10 tribes were called Israel. Israel was ruled by a series of evil kings who were not descendents of David. Israel came to an end when they went into exile to Assyria (capital Nineveh) in the year 722 BC. The southern tribe of Judah was ruled by sons of David, some good and some bad kings. The people of Judah were hauled off to Babylon in 586 BC for a 70-year exile. These stories are told in Samuel and Kings (and repeated in Chronicles).

We call this the history section, but the Hebrews called it prophecy because the history was told from a divine perspective; it mattered only how God saw it and how it reflected God’s covenant with His people. Indeed, the main characters were prophets, not kings. Kings went to prophets for leadership.

One-third of the books of Kings deal with Elijah and Elisha. Most of the Prophet books also deal with this time period, especially focused around the exiles. Jeremiah was in Jerusalem until its destruction (Lamentations).

David writes Psalms. Solomon writes Proverbs. The story of Job is not labeled in connection to rest of the story.

Around 500 BC, the people of Judah returned to the promised land and rebuilt the temple, but they waited for the new covenant that Jeremiah had talked about to take effect. This story is told in Ezra/Nehemiah. The last three minor prophets and Esther also refer to this time. Four hundred years of silence follow.

The New Covenant. The new covenant was established around the year 0 BC or 0 AD. The history of the world divides into two parts, before Jesus and after Jesus. Call it the Year of our Lord (AD) or the Common Era (CE), Jesus divides it either way.

The new covenant is written on the heart, not on tablets of stone. The other covenants gave instruction, this one changes the heart. In Christ Jesus, God brings us back to the place He created us for in the first place. This is the story of the New Testament.

The Bible closes (Revelation 22:1-6) with a description of people back where God wanted them, resting in Eden.

In the end, God gets return on His investment. Heaven isn’t plan B for a messed up world; it’s plan A all the way.

Despite our sin, God insists on giving us His blessing.

Praise the Lord. “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.”

T M

Dave Reimer is a professor at Steinbach Bible College.

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His-Story challenge helps youth fit into God’s story

O

n Sunday afternoon 500 young people took part in a game called His-Story. Connected to the theme of the weekend Finding Our Place in God’s Story, the game was designed to help students see what God has been up to throughout history and how they fit into God’s story.

Here are the instructions as basically given: In this game your team will journey through time to see what God has been up to since the creation of the world. Along the way you will face challenges that followers of Jesus have faced throughout history.

Goal Your goal is to be the first team to complete all 25 scenes of the game booklet and return to the security table outside the dining hall.

Procedure Read Scene 1. Answer the question. Proceed to any of the 25 challenge sites to see if you have answered correctly. If you have answered correctly, your scene will be marked complete and you can proceed on to Scene 2.

If you did not answer correctly you will need to complete the challenge at the site. Once you have completed the challenge your scene will be marked complete and you can proceed on to Scene 2. Continue in order through all 25 scenes.

Game play There are 25 scenes and 25 challenge sites. You are not allowed to use the same challenge site twice.

All challenge sites are located within the shaded area of the map.

You may travel on roads, paths and Briercrest property (stay out of private yards).

Nathan Plett

You are a team, stay together as a team (you cannot leave players behind).

Road blocks: The world, the flesh, the devil Along the way, you may run into groups of three people (wearing red shirts with an X on them) who will try to impede your progress. If any of your team members are tagged by this group of three, your whole team must stop and may only continue with the game when they allow you. The best way to get them to release you is to read and/or recite Scripture to them.

Challenges included: Sharing how to become a Christian Floor hockey target practice Stoning a member of your team (with water-soaked sponge balls) Memorizing a Bible passage Eating an entire orange Bobbing for gummy worms in a large bowl of puffed wheat and water Putting together a puzzle Building a tinfoil boat that supports 100 marbles Questions included What is the tallest building in the world?

Why was Abram’s name changed to Abraham?

What country has the most sheep per capita?

Jesus had 12 disciples. Name them.

Which Roman emperor had Paul executed?

Which city were the Christians and the Turks fighting over during the crusades?

Which country sends out the second most foreign missionaries?

According to the book of Revelation, where will those who have inherited eternal life live forever?

More than 100 teams entered and more than 60 finished within the three-hour time limit. The top three teams finished the challenge in about 90 minutes.

All leaders were encouraged to dress as a biblical or church history figure. (NYC member David Kruse walked around pretending to be evangelist Dwight L. Moody.)

His-Story was a game that challenged students physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Nathan Plett is a National Youth Committee member.

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THE MESSENGER June 10, 2009

WITH OUR MISSIONARIES Nicaragua

CINAG reaches out to youth and children “Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart” (2 Timothy 2:22).

These are some of the truths, concepts, and principles that Jose Ramon at CINAG is using to impart classes to 30 youth of the community. With the completion and inauguration of the new addition the youth are enjoying ample, bright space for these activities.

In a recent e-mail Jose Ramon wrote, “Thank you for your prayer support; it is so valuable and the adolescents of the community need it so much. A big thank you to all our Canadian donors.”

Three days a week the youth are taught Bible, ethics, sexuality, physical and emotional health, and recreation.

Because of the great need to encourage these youth to stay in school they have added two afternoons to assist them in academic enhancement.

Recently pastor Nicolas began meeting with the parents in the community. They believe that the parents are reaching

Jose Ramon Noguera

Esther Vado

Life skills program

out in desperation for help. Poor living conditions, poverty, lack of education, and spiritual darkness has created a generation of youth without purpose.

CINAG has a wonderful opportunity to reach out and make a difference.

“When do we become residents?” one of the youth asked recently. In the light of the opportunities, a weekend retreat is planned. The facilities are there, the time is right. Let’s pray for a mighty outpouring of God’s Spirit upon this event.

Another exciting development is the preparation of a plot of land for agricultural purposes. The rains have started and this gives rise to new energy and hope.

Planting and harvesting will be valuable skills for these youth to practice in their homes.

Jose Ramon has been teaching over 300 Grade 9 and 10 students

in the largest high school in Diriamba. He has been given freedom with the subject matter and receives favourable feedback.

Many students and mothers have expressed concerns and are asking for further help. God is doing a “new thing” among the youth of Diriamba, praise His name.

Many shouts of glee can be heard three days a week when 60 little feet run pell-mell through the gates of CINAG and head for the playground. It is an absolute pleasure to stop and listen to children playing, shouting, running, sliding, skipping—just being children for a while.

Soon classes begin and Esther Vado calmly seats them around tables for crowd control. Their eager faces anticipate a good time. Esther is a gifted teacher and easily catches their attention and participation. Bible, singing, and prayer are always first on the agenda.

How beautiful it is to hear these little ones simply pray. They also do crafts, skills, art, sports, and (of course) a snack.

On behalf of director Elizabeth Vado, staff at CINAG, and ourselves we thank you for making this great ministry possible. CINAG has applied again for a residency license, but we have no word.

May God’s will be done.

Darlene Olfert Darlene and Lester Olfert (Steinbach EFC) serve part-time in Nicaragua with Action International Ministries. They are currently in Canada.

Seeking book reviewers The Messenger receives, and asks for, book titles to be reviewed.

Requirement: thoughtful, tightly written summary and response (400 words maximum). Payment: Keep the book. If interested, provide your areas of interest and background.

Deadline: Negotiated. Important: Do the review. Contact the editors at messenger@emconf.ca.

Youth program

THE MESSENGER June 10, 2009

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WITH OUR MISSIONARIES South Africa

Perspective: Life in Christ gives hope!

You change a small circumstance and perspective is hugely affected. You need not even change an external circumstance; if you have hope or a bright outlook then perspective looks different than when things look bleak.

The lamp of the body is the eye.

Therefore, when your eye is good, your whole body also is full of light. But when your eye is bad, your body also is full of darkness. Therefore take heed that the light which is in you is not darkness (Luke 11:34–35).

Jesus admonishes us to let the light of God permeate our heart and mind and we will perceive things to be bright and positive. That’s so for a student preparing for exam, more so for a teacher who prepares a class, and for someone in a culture that deals with hugely negative elements.

• Only 34 per cent of South Africa’s children grow up in homes with both mom and dad.

• Almost half a million South African households have children living on streets.

• For every two people starting antiretroviral treatment for AIDS, five are newly infected.

The global financial crunch has necessitated changes in how missions function.

Jesus’ words apply to these people as they do to us who are far more fortunate. Destructive habits do not change without hope. There must be a payoff for us to change. Is there any hope for change in a society with so much negativity? This helps us understand why many, whose lives are filled with darkness, do not heed warning signs.

Thank God that, though subjected to satanic darkness, people get hope for eternity when they accept Christ. They become mentors to their neighbourhood and the next generation. Life in Christ puts light into their eyes and hope for tomorrow.

TEAM International determined to call together their ministry area leaders to assist with reinforcing the new perspective. Some travelled halfway

14

TEAM leaders gathered in Thailand.

around the globe to Thailand, but for those in Asia it was a good choice of venue.

The global financial crunch has necessitated changes in how missions function. TEAM’s board made changes that affect all of us; these were announced at the conference.

Member care was a major focus of the conference. We have gifted people committed to helping us. Each ministry area will have a missionary who will carry a substantial responsibility to make member care happen.

Vision and strategy were emphasized, and we left encouraged to fine tune our vision and purpose statements for better outcome in our ministry areas.

The last session was communion. Before we left home we were given Jerry Bridges’ book Respectable Sins. Before we partook we reflected in a priestly manner with our missionary colleagues in mind, back home. It was a highlight.

Perspective is at low ebb with Bible colleges that we associate with. Most work with laborious accreditation issues, recession is restricting their

economics, and they lack staff; many feel overworked.

We are preparing to travel to Bloemfontein (650 kms) to possibly recruit a missionary couple to help in an orphan ministry.

Let’s generate perspective that shines God’s light out of our eyes!

Joe Reimer

Olga and Joe Reimer (Blumenort) serve in South Africa with TEAM.

THE MESSENGER June 10, 2009

WITH OUR MISSIONARIES Brazil

Fruit seen from camping season of property, t-shirts, printing of folders, campers who do not have the means to cover costs, and other materials. We know God is in control and desires that His Word go forth to those in need.

This particular month of May and going into June are quite busy for Quest, and Dwayne is ever busy with preparations.

He and four others are heading out to a Christian Camping International-Brazil (known here as AEA) Convention, as well as participating in strategic planning for AEA the days leading up to the convention.

Following that is a board retreat to help teach, train, and encourage our board members. Our board is dealing with issues such as not really knowing what is Christian We have definitely seen and heard of fruit camping and learning how the from our first summer camps. hands-on style of board we are I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be on my mouth.

My soul shall make its boast in the Lord; The humble shall hear of it and be glad, magnify the Lord with me, And let us exalt His name together (Psalm 34:1–2).

Months have passed with preparations for our upcoming winter camps and things seem to be moving along. New campers, staffers, and parents have expressed interest in participating and helping.

We have definitely seen and heard of fruit from our first summer camps and are eager to see what God has planned for the next wave of campers and staff. We are working on raising money for rental

building works, which is much different than they are accustomed to.

The president of CCI-World Wide, Dan Bolin, has offered his time to come help our board members in this respect, as guest speaker. A banquet to raise funds for property is coming up in June with preparations almost complete. This is exciting for all of us and we are looking forward to that day.

Dwayne also had the privilege of preaching a couple weeks ago at our church, giving our pastor a break and bringing in some Canadian flavour. I wasn’t able to be there, but had him give me a private sermon! It was great and I’m sure they loved it.

Shannon Klassen Shannon and Dwayne Klassen (Community Bible) serve under Janz Team.

WITH OUR CHURCHES

Unusual Easter Sunday back of pick-up trucks. It was Evacuation Day for the village of Riverside as well as other isolated homes in the area.

My mother-in-law and I left on our Honda Big Red and the water we drove through made our heads swirl. Several families were already boating loved ones in for gatherings held. Two couples from our church, Merv and Susan Dueck and Carl and Jo Stevenson, lost road access to their homes for a five-week period of time. In the aftermath many folks, young and old, from our church have been

helping with flood clean-up in the area.

The church choir, under the direction of Carla Toews, travelled to the Fort Frances EMC and presented a program on Sunday afternoon, May 3. It was fantastic to visit a sister church. We felt very welcome, were moved by their prayers for our community, and appreciated the lunch they served later.

Our youth group enjoyed Abundant Springs EMC youth conference at Briercrest. Highlights included making new friends, hearing great music groups, and learning from the challenging speakers.

Arlin Scharfenberg

Rosenort EM Church appreciated the addition of nine members through baptism on three Sundays. Baptism on June 1, 2008: Youth pastor Amos Fehr, Scotty Dueck, Angela Dueck, Kevin Brandt, Christina Fast, Brenden Friesen, Jessica Waldner, and interim pastor Larry Eidse. Susan Sivonen (not pictured) made her confession of faith on July 27, 2008.

On October 12, 2008, we celebrated the baptism of sisters Sherisse Brandt and Kelli Goossen, pictured with Pastor George Toews.

Rosenort (Man.) EMC: When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you (Isaiah 53:2, ESV).

Easter Sunday was an unusual day for many in our church. We had a delightful cantata and dramatic sketches depicting the death and resurrection of Christ.

During the service the flood waters rose rapidly and some of us who drove to church in cars had to get home in the

THE MESSENGER June 10, 2009

15

WITH OUR CHURCHES

Youth pastoral couple dedicated for service MacGregor, Man.: Sunday, March 8, was our dedication service for Garnet and Tracey Hodges as youth pastoral couple.

Our previous pastoral couple Jerry and Phyllis Plett came out to be a part of this event. It was, of course, followed by a potluck.

Youth update: Our youth successfully raised the money needed to go to Chihuahua, Mexico. Including leaders, 26 people went. They visited an orphanage, a rehab centre for young people—some as young as five years old—who were addicted to drugs. The youth helped paint, repair a foosball table, play soccer with the kids and through it all built relationships with each other and strengthened their relationship with God. They were blessed when they had the opportunity to spend the night at the EMC guesthouse in El Paso, Texas.

Their lives and ours have been touched.

Pray that the youth will continue to grow

in their knowledge of God and that this experience will help them in their lives at home and at school.

The Missions Committee is always thinking and trying to come up with ways to support our missionaries on the field.

They sent Christmas care packages, and emails and letters are in constant motion.

Thanks to our committee for all their dedication to our missionaries and for making us aware of their needs.

Our Sunday school Christmas concert was a play entitled Island Christmas. The children performed wonderfully and made us feel we were in “the Islands.”

The ladies enjoyed a wonderful day with Janice Hirst, who shared about emotions and how they affect us. It was a challenging and educational day.

Our now annual Leadership Retreat was open to anyone who wanted to attend.

This year’s event was held at Valley View Bible Camp. We discussed the book

Everybody’s Normal Till You Get To Know Them and shared different experiences from our lives. These periods of retreat are a wonderful time to learn from each other and to use those experiences to enrich our lives and the lives of those around us.

Our fundraising concert for Valley View Bible Camp was a big hit. We had a full house with many coming out to hear great music from The Hunter Family and Stephen Hill. Money raised will go towards the many needs at the camp. One of our own young people, Joey Sawatzky and his wife Andrea, have just been hired as the Assistant Director for the camp; they started their new venture on April 1.

It is a wonderful thing to be a part of a larger community of believers. As we share our stories with you we pray that you will feel that you are a part of us just as we feel that we are in partnership with all of you.

Elizabeth Sawatzky

Youth (below) and leaders (right) prayed for Garnet and Tracy Hodges on their dedication service as youth pastoral couple.

For more Abundant Springs coverage, including podcasts and photos, check out

abundantsprings.ca register to attend www.emconf.ca 16

THE MESSENGER June 10, 2009

EMC and

Statement of Faith Church Practices A 25-part series

Fred Buhler

The Board of Leadership and Outreach has invited EMC pastors and other leaders to reflect on the meaning of our Statement of Faith and Church Practices. These writings are intended to inform and to invite conversation.

In the end, this 25-part series might be published as a booklet. Have you heard a sermon on these articles? Encourage the preacher to forward the material to The Messenger.

2. CHRISTIAN STEWARDSHIP We believe God owns and sustains his creation. He calls us, God’s people, to be trustworthy stewards of creation. Stewardship is demonstrated in our lifestyles, in our relations with the poor and the disadvantaged, in our view of possessions, in our concern for all of God’s creation and in our response to global economic injustice. Biblical stewardship includes faithful proclamation of the Gospel, careful exercise of our gifts and abilities and proper use of our powers, possessions and time, to accomplish God’s will “on earth as it is in heaven” (Genesis 1:1, 20–21, 28; 2:15, 19; Leviticus 25:23–24; Psalm 8:6–8; 24:1; 104:16–18; Micah 2:1–2; Haggai 2:8; Malachi 3:8–10; Matthew 25:14–30; 28:18– 20; Romans 12:3–8; 1 Corinthians 4:1–3; 10:26; 2 Corinthians 8–9; Ephesians 4:7–16; 1 Peter 4:7–11).

Church Practices Article 2: Christian Stewardship

T

he wording of this statement reflects some of the tension we experience when living out the concept of stewardship. We believe that God owns all and entrusts gifts to us—life, possessions, gospel, time, responsibility—yet we see numerous references here to “our” things. We easily slip into the mindset of ownership!

A challenge related to this life of “managing for another” is its voluntary nature. Being faithful is a choice, rewarding to be sure, but a choice God leaves to us. An Old Testament biblical example of this is the Sabbath.

Honouring God’s instruction resulted in blessing, provision, health, vital community, and God’s glory being shown to the surrounding world. The result is “to seek first the reign of God and to cease from consumerism, unchecked competition, overburdened productivity, greed and possessiveness,” as another Mennonite confession states.

Traditionally the Mennonite sense of community has reflected a lifestyle of mutual aid, a solid work ethic, frugal living, careful investing and managing of resources, often coupled with a

The teaching to live faithfully and obediently is integral to who we are.

THE MESSENGER June 10, 2009

strong drive to share our faith and share generously with the less fortunate. At times these values have led to groups of Mennonites becoming wealthy in a world of need.

A tension has often been to know how to help without creating dependency; how to share the gospel without having it lead to the formation of “rice Christians.”

Part of giving generously is helping others to move ahead, not just giving a handout. It requires more involvement and commitment on our part. But isn’t that what we are called to?

As a people we have been entrusted with much: material well being, access to education, freedom of religion and speech, awareness of the world situation, and especially the challenge of Jesus to take the gospel to the ends of the earth.

The teaching to live faithfully and obediently is integral to who we are. The issue is not merely lifestyle choice and preference. The issue is discerning God’s mind and then obeying.

How can we encourage one another to think as managers, not owners?

A common complaint we heard on the mission field during our service in Paraguay was that those who prospered wanted to forget their poor “cousins” and enjoy their wealth for themselves.

Would that be a valid accusation against our T church in Canada? M Fred Buhler is pastor of Pineridge Fellowship Chapel in Hudson Bay, Sask.

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19 graduate from Steinbach Bible College Graduation weekend culminated with the ceremony celebrating the 71st class to graduate from the college. Seventeen students were awarded a Bachelor of Arts degree with majors in Christian Studies, Pastoral, Bible/Theology, Global Mission, Youth, and Peer Counselling. The Diploma of Biblical Studies was awarded to two students. Rev. David Funk, pastor of the Abbedale Christian Fellowship in Calgary, Alberta, and a Steinbach Bible College grad of 1999 gave the commencement address. He challenged graduates to beware of pride when seeking to work in God’s kingdom as servant leaders.

Henry Redekopp, graduating with a BA in Bible/Theology, delivered the valedictory, in which he told undergraduates to take up the calling of God to be ministers of reconciliation.

Armando Reyes, a second-year student, gave the undergraduate response.

is given to a student each year who demonstrates leadership in spiritual, social, and academic aspects of student life. Armando Reyes was the recipient of the Timothy Award this year.

It is exciting to see our graduates engaging in ministry. Scott Penner is currently serving at a drop-in centre in Thunder Bay, Ont. Blaine Dueck has accepted the call to serve as youth pastor in Blue Creek, Belize. Lyliane Harder will be teaching at Mount Salem Christian School. Others are waiting on God to direct them into the ministry that God has prepared for them. We send our grads to work as servant leaders in church ministries with a prayer that God will guide them to the place he has prepared for them to serve in Kingdom work.

SBC

We send our grads to work as servant leaders in church ministries.

A number of awards were given to students at the grad banquet on Saturday evening. Deborah Thiessen received the Delta Epsilon Chi Honor Society given by the Association of Biblical Higher Education. The Harvey Plett Scholarship was awarded to Matthew Dueck and the Betty Reimer scholarship went to Karen Fehr. Benjamin Kroeker received the Mennonite Foundation of Canada Spirit of Generosity Award. The Timothy Award

coming events June 18

15th annual EMC Golf Classic Steinbach Fly-in Golf Course Steinbach, Man. 204-255-8062 (Ron Penner) or 204-371-5209 (Burt Loewen)

June 18

Annual general meeting and spring event Eden Mental Health Services Speaker: Randy Hildebrand Winkler Berthaler Mennonite Church Winkler, Man. 204-325-5355 www.edenhealth.mb.ca

June 18–20

Write! Canada Canada’s largest Christian writers’ conference Speakers: Brian Stiller, Audrey Dorsch, Ray Wiseman Guelph, Ont. 519-886-4196 www.writecanada2009.ca

June 25

Iron Man golf tournament in support of Eden Foundation Winkler Golf Course Winkler, Man. 204-325-5355 www.edenhealth.mb.ca

July 3–5

Henry Redekopp gives the valedictory.

EMC Annual Convention Radical Discipleship: Increasing the Kingdom’s footprint in our world Speaker: Dr. Pierre Gilbert Riverton Recreation Centre Riverton, Man. 204-326-6401 www.emconf.ca

July 25 2nd Annual Tractor Trek Parade of tractors 40 years and older Villages south of Winkler, Man. 204-325-5355 www.edenhealth.mb.ca

November 5–8 Business as a Calling 2009 New Frontiers: New Solutions San Jose, California businessasacalling.org

2009 grad class: (back) Scott Penner, Trenton Penner, Henry Redekopp, James Peters, Blaine Dueck, Matthew Plett, Russell Reimer, (front), Lyliane Harder, Anne Braun, Karen Fehr, Erin Barkman, Danielle Penner, Cecilly Hildebrand, Kimberly Reimer; missing: Gordon Daman and Charles Plett.

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THE MESSENGER June 10, 2009

SHOULDER TAPPING Wymark EMC, a country church located 20 miles southeast of Swift Current, Sask., is accepting applications for lead pastor. We aim to be a friendly, family-welcoming church body of 70 to 90 people, and seek a pastor who can encourage us by word and example to grow to maturity in Christ. Enquiries can be directed to the Pastoral Search Committee at 306-773-9089 (leave a message) or funkfarm@gmail.com (Paul Funk).

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.

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.

Kola EMC, a country church located 20 miles west of Virden, Man., and two miles east of the Sask. border, is inviting applications for senior pastor.

For information and to send resumes, contact Adam Bajus at 204-556-2209 or littlecreek@rfnow. com.

La Crete Christian Fellowship is looking for a full-time youth pastor to be a part of our pastoral team.

La Crete, located in the northwest corner of Alberta, offers a unique blend of a friendly rural lifestyle and a progressive outlook. It is a young and energetic population with potential for an exciting youth ministry. La Crete is a great place to raise a family, even if we are just off the edge of most maps!

LCCF’s service to God is based on core values: a commitment to worship, discipleship, teaching of God’s Word, and reaching our community and world with the gospel. We are a vibrant church of about 350 regular attendees who desire to spread the Word through a variety of ministries.

The youth pastor will direct the youth leadership team in implementing our vision of helping our youth establish and strengthen their personal connection to Jesus Christ. Applicants are to be committed to a personal Christian faith, a disciple of Jesus Christ who is a willing and teachable leader; a person whose love for the Lord is reflected in their ability to work well with others.

If the Holy Spirit is inviting you to pursue this further, contact us for more details: Call Mike Schellenberg at 780-841-9376 or e-mail lccfc@ telus.net.

Morweena Christian School (MCS) is inviting applications for teaching positions in junior and senior high school classes. MCS is operated by the Morweena Mennonite Church.

It is situated 25 kms northwest of Arborg, Man. MCS is dedicated to providing a K-12 education in an environment which holds a high respect for biblical values. Please send resume and pastor’s

THE MESSENGER June 10, 2009

Full text of ads available at www.emconf.ca/service.htm reference to Tim Reimer, Principal, Fax 204-3643117 or timr@morweenaschool.org.

RAinbow Christian School is a growing K–8 Christian professional learning community in Vanderhoof, B.C. It is classified as a Group 1 independent school. RCS currently has a staff of six and an enrollment of about 80 students, but is experiencing continued growth. Full-time teaching positions in all grade levels are being accepted at this time for the 2009–2010 school year.

The successful candidate is a committed Christian and possesses the ability to work closely with other staff members, the school’s administration, and parents and students. The person is also passionate about growing a culture of faith and academic excellence.

RCS is also accepting applications for principal. This is a full-time position, with 60 percent administration duties and 40 percent teaching responsibilities.

The successful applicatant should be certified to teach in B.C., demonstrate leadership skills and the ability to serve, demonstrate current understanding of the curriculum, be a strong promoter of Christian education, have at least five years teaching experience, and be willing to teach varied classes.

Applications should include a resume, three references (including a pastor’s), transcripts, BCCT certificate, statement of faith, and philosophy of education. Submissions should be sent to Rainbow Christian School Search Committee, Box 710, 2994 Burrard Ave., Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A0; Ph. 250-567-3127; Fax 250-567-3167; E-mail rcschool@telus.net. Only applicants to be interviewed will be contacted.

CBF Christian School, a Jr. K–grade 8 school located in Swan River, Man., seeks a term teacher for multi grades 5–8 homeroom (September 2009 to June 2010). Must hold a Manitoba Teacher’s Certificate, be born again, and provide pastoral references. Send resume to CBFCS, Box 1630, Swan River, MB R0L 1Z0. For further information, call 204-734-2174 (weekdays) or 204-734-5702 (after hours). Only candidates selected for interview will be contacted.

Continental Mission in Thompson, Man., is looking for a director and a treasurer. Contact board chairman Ruben Goertzen (rgoertz@mts. net) for job descriptions, or call Bill Penner 204679-1005 for information.

An evangelical ministry, Continental Mission (started in the 1940s) is involved in evangelism, church planting, camping, and drop-in ministries among First Nations people, mostly in northern Manitoba.

The Hodgson Christian Academy (HCA) is seeking applicants for the position of classroom teacher. HCA is approximately two hours north of Winnipeg on Hwy #17, just south of Peguis and Fisher River Reserves.

HCA, a grade 1-12 school, opened in 2003 upon the request of several Native families attending the local Wesleyan church. It has 18 students.

The school operates under the direction of two

on-Reserve churches and two other supporting churches. Board members are selected from all four congregations.

The teacher position opening is for a class of 10 junior and senior high students. Manitoba Teaching Certification is not a requirement, but applicants with experience in Christian education will be given preference.

HCA is a satellite school of the Morweena Christian School. Please contact Principal Tim Reimer 204-364-2466 or timr@morweenaschool. org.

Mennonite Foundation, a donor-advised charitable foundation (est. 1973) with 17 employees and an operating budget of $1.9 million, seeks an executive director. The director is responsible to the board and will provide strategic leadership, directing and managing the overall operation. The candidate must be a church member in one of MFC’s six supporting conferences.

MFC promotes financial stewardship from a Christian perspective, creates opportunities for people to be generous with their financial resources, provides stewardship education for churches and members, is committed to socially responsible investing, and provides loans to constituent churches and related charities.

We are a growing and dynamic organization with over $100 million under management. The head office is in Winnipeg, Man., with four other offices across Canada.

A director will have demonstrated success in leading and managing a growing organization, possess excellent communication skills, be experienced in directing and guiding staff to accomplish goals, possess excellent administrative and organizational skills, and be fully aligned with MFC’s values and the faithbased constituency we serve.

MFC offers a competitive salary and benefits package. Resumes should be submitted by August 31, 2009, to Personnel Committee, MFC, 12-1325 Markham Road, Winnipeg, MB R3& 4J6; edsearch@mennofoundation.ca. Further information can be found at Mennofoundation. ca.

MFC also has an opening in our Winnipeg office for a receptionist as a maternity leave replacement from August 1, 2009 to April 15, 2010.

This person will be responsible for front desk and telephone reception, processing incoming and outgoing mail including deposits and receipting, word processing and various other clerical duties. Experience in a computerized office environment, specifically using MS Office software with proficiency in Word is desired.

Applicants should enjoy interacting with the public and possess strong interpersonal and telephone skills.

MFC offers a competitive salary and benefits package. Interested persons should send their resume to: Assistant Manager, Mennonite Foundation of Canada, 12-1325 Markham Road, Winnipeg MB R3T 4J6, Ph. 204-488-1985, fax 204488-1986, email rbjanzen@mennofoundation.ca.

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