The Messenger Vol. 48, No. 6 May 2010 by The Messenger

THE

MESSENGER

volume 48, number 6 May 2010

www.emconf.ca/Messenger

the power of

COMMUNITY Photo: istockphoto.com

examining membership in the EMC

a publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference

THE

editorials

MESSENGER

Influences and decision-making

s it makes decisions, the EMC faces many influences. As an evangelical body we are influenced, according to historian Alister McGrath, by the movements of the Magisterial Reformation (16th century), Puritanism (16th and 17 th centuries), and Pietism (17 th and 18th centuries). As an Anabaptist body, we are influenced by the Radical Reformation (16th century), histories in Prussia (now Poland) and Russia (now Ukraine), by movement to Canada in 1874, North American fundamentalism and evangelicalism, immigration and emigration of DGR Mennonites in the 1920s and ’40s and later, and members from many cultures and church backgrounds. We are shaped by moving from a largely rural community that settled in near-pioneer conditions to an often middle- and upper-class wealth with a growing urban shift.

We are affected by the institutions we founded and others we support, influenced by the company we keep, altered by the education we accept or reject, and shaped by the technology we bring into our homes. Given this, is it any wonder that EMCers vary in opinions and sometimes disagree? Is it any surprise that we need to discuss, discern, and decide? Enclosed is the Convention Insert with board and committee reports, election information, and more. These materials are relevant for all EMC churches from B.C. to southern Ontario; they properly assume all churches will send delegates to our decision-making sessions in July. Being a conference is a choice rooted in Jesus and reflected in historical connections, shared convictions, and joint ministries. Terry M. Smith

EMCers near a mushroom patch

wo important steps were recently taken in nuclear weapons talks. The U.S. and Russia agreed to reduce their nuclear weapon stockpiles and the Nuclear Security Summit focused on greater security for weaponsgrade uranium. Related to this, the Canadian government has indicated that it will return some enriched uranium to the U.S. Why should we care? Simply because the gospel and nuclear weapons do not match. Nuclear weapons threaten people made in God’s image who live in His world. We are to “seek peace and pursue it” (1 Peter 3:11). Does seeking a “tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity” (1 Timothy 2:2) mean tolerating the prospect of a mushroom cloud? What would the One who disarmed Peter say?

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

How many EMCers in Manitoba who enjoy cross border shopping in North Dakota ever pause to consider that they are driving closer to where nuclear missiles are housed? (Currently about half of our EMC churches and a majority of our members reside in Manitoba.) A major war, a terrorist attack, or an accident could mean a tragedy. (By mistake an airplane with six armed nuclear weapons flew from North Dakota in 2007.) The bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki happened about 70 years after the EMC came to Canada. Now, almost as many years later, we seem de-sensitized to nuclear weapons. On the world stage much needs to happen, but even modest positive steps to reduce the nuclear threat deserve to be supported. Terry M. Smith

EDITOR Terry M. Smith tsmith@emconf.ca

ASSISTANT EDITOR Rebecca Roman rroman@emconf.ca

Submissions to The Messenger should be sent to messenger@emconf.ca THE MESSENGER is the monthly 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 by the EMC Board of Church Ministries, 440 Main St, Steinbach, Man. Subscriptions: Canadian subscriptions are $24 for one year, $44 for two years, $65 for three years (Manitoba residents add 7% PST); U.S. subscriptions are $30 for one year, $55 for two years, $82 for three years; all other countries are $45 for one year, $85 for two years, $125 for three years . 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 Publications Mail Agreement #40017362 We gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada, through its various programs, toward our production and mailing costs. 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 E-mail: messenger@emconf.ca

MESSENGER SCHEDULE: No. 7 – June issue (copy due May 28) On-line edition available at www.emconf.ca/Messenger

contents Features 9

Examining covenant community biblically – Pastor George Toews

11 The historical trail of the EMC membership idea

– Dr. Arden Thiessen

14 A few thoughts on why I love my church

With our missionaries

– Jocelyn R. Plett

Writings shared

16 Wisconsin, USA: He is always enough 16 Nicaragua: The church is alive and growing! 17 Europe: God’s Word for the Roma 18 BOM project: Curacaví, Chile

Archives alcove

With our churches

Columns

Reviews of Annie...Through it all and Woman to Woman, Sharing Jesus with a Muslim Friend When Anabaptists confiscated Menno Simons’ writings – Terry Smith

19 Window on missions

Board of Missions considers Guadalajara and Bolivia – Ken Zacharias

33 Generations

Kids need true heroes – Gerald Reimer

34 Pictures of God

Crossing over – Joanna Plett

35 Stewardship today

Retirement: how do you feel about it? – Mike Strathdee

36 Kids’ corner

20 Pineridge Fellowship Chapel: A to Z 2009 20 Anola Fellowship Chapel: Anola goes fishing 21 Portage Evangelical Church: PEC youth travel to Joe’s Place 21 Straffordville EMC: Members received, eyes opened 22 Wymark EMC: East meets West at Wymark 22 Kleefeld EMC: New members at KEMC 23 Pansy Chapel: Mission experience highlight of the year 23 Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship: Blankets sent to Haiti 24 Heartland Community Church: Building the church

Departments 2 Editorials 3 Pontius’ Puddle 5 Letters 30 Births 31 Weddings 31 In memory 31 Calendar 32 Shoulder tapping News 5 Lorraine Roth receives MHSC award 7 Thoughts on the Nurturing Healthy Sexuality Conference 8 EMC graduates highlighted 25 Low German cookbook affirms women 25 VMC ordains 26 26 MDS celebrates 60 years of service 26 MDS fixes forgotten houses 27 MCC seeks dialogue with Timber Bay families 27 Growth at Eden requires more space 28 Colombian displacement continues 28 MCC partners in Congo injured 29 Dutch Mennonites voice views on war and peace 29 Peter J. Dyck leaves legacy of service

To see is to do – Loreena Thiessen

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

writings shared

Annie…Through it all, Betty Barkman (Derksen Printers, 2008). 108 pp. $10.95. No ISBN. Reviewed by Mary Bueckert, retired nurse and educator (St. Vital EMC).

nnie Barkman Reimer was born in 1916 and is now approaching 94 years. Her autobiography as told to Betty Barkman is one to challenge and stimulate the reader. She has had her share of challenges, heartaches, and sorrows. Through all a gradual growth to a solid faith is seen developing. Annie looks for the silver lining behind each happening in her life, from many moves to the loss of a number of children because of illness, birth anomalies, and crib death. Her husband Abe Reimer, whom she married at 18 and a half years

of age, was at times supportive and at other times distant. Finances were a constant concern during their children’s growing up years. Also, Abe’s distant relationship with the Lord was a cross that Annie had to endure. It was just hours before he died that he seemed to make peace with God. This is a book that adults would benefit from. It is thought provoking and brings one to the point of counting his or her blessings. Also, if I had young people in their late teens or early 20s, I would

Woman to Woman, Sharing Jesus with a Muslim Friend, Joy Loewen (Chosen Books, 2010), 202 pages. $14.99 USD. ISBN 978-0-8007-9483-5. Reviewed by Paul Thiessen (Blumenort), linguist and Bible translator, Burkina Faso.

on’t let the title fool you. This book is about women, by a woman, but not just for

women! This is the story of God’s Holy Spirit at work, transforming lives one by one, through the love of one of His servants. If you would like a dose of inspiration for proclaiming the truth of the Gospel among your neighbours right here in Canada, you ought to read this book. Although the examples and stories are all about Joy Loewen’s experiences with Muslim women, the principles can be applied to our relationships with any immigrants 4

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

or people of other ethnic and language groups who live in our country. Joy understands Muslims well from years of living among them and has great respect for them. This love and understanding, combined with a passionate desire for all people to hear about Jesus Christ, translate into exciting friendships and lively discussions. Could you feel at home with a Muslim friend? The author couldn’t at first, but God gave her a love for Muslim women. This eventually

This book is thought provoking and brings one to the point of counting his or her blessings.

encourage them to read the book while contemplating marriage. She was married for 59 years and was a loyal and faithful wife in challenging times. Annie has lived her life avoiding the blame game, and she is thankful for God’s grace and forgiveness in her life.

Joy understands Muslims well from years of living among them and has great respect for them.

developed into close friendships that made it possible for her to feel at home with them. If you have neighbours, friends or colleagues who come from another culture, and you have a desire to welcome them with God’s love, I recommend this book to you.

letters Put a smile on the treasurer’s face! We are writing this letter in response to Gerald Reimer’s article in the March 17, 2010 issue [Is God Testing Us?]. We want to thank him for writing it. It certainly brings conviction and soul searching. Our prayer is that we will respond as God will lead. As I was recalling the article, I was sitting in a warm, comfortable house. I was secure in the knowledge that I had freedom to read what I wanted to read. I also felt blessed that I was born into a happy Christian home. My grandparents, parents, uncles, and aunts all loved the Lord. I’ve heard the gospel message all of my life, and have accepted Christ’s gift of salvation. We are blessed! We are thankful! How can we share this with those who have never heard the Good News?

We appreciate our local church, our Conference, and those on different boards who are trying to make things happen. It would be a shame if mission projects would have to be cut because of a lack of finances when most of us have been blessed so abundantly. Can you imagine the smile on the face of the treasurer if he could announce that the budget had been met completely (and maybe some extra)? Can you imagine the smile on the faces of those who heard the salvation story and accepted Christ? Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could all have a part in putting those smiles there? Alice and Linda Doerksen Winnipeg, Man.

16th annual

news

EMC Golf Classic June 17, 2010

Lorraine Roth receives MHSC award

Call Ron Penner 204-255-8062 or Len Barkman 204-355-4854 for information or to register

Photo: Barb Draper

WATERLOO, Ont.—Lorraine Roth of Tavistock, Ont., is the 2010 recipient of the Award of Excellence from the Mennonite Historical Society of Canada. The award noted her research on Amish Mennonite families who settled in Upper Canada beginning in the 1820s. Roth, 79, received the award on January 30, 2010, at a meeting of the Mennonite Historical Society of Ontario board of directors. Last year’s Award of Excellence winner was Rev. Dave K. Schellenberg, the late archivist emeritus of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. MHSC and EMC

Steinbach Fly-In Golf Course Steinbach, Man.

Lorraine Roth receives the Award of Excellence from Sam Steiner, MHSC president.

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

archives alcove by Terry Smith

When Anabaptists confiscated Menno Simons’ writings

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

PHOTO: MENNONITE LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES

n 1834 Peter von Riesen transissues underlying this dispute lated some writings of Menno still exist centuries later. Simons from Dutch into German First, in recent Roman and published them. German Catholic-Mennonite World Mennonite leaders in Prussia (now Conference discussions (1998Poland) confiscated them. 2003), leaders grappled with the The translator, who obeyed the Reformation’s polemical writings. confiscation order or be excommuWith all due respect to Menno, I nicated, struggled with “whether we have wondered how wise some of had done right by surrendering up his wordings were even in the 16th these books so obligingly.” century. Why were Menno Simons’ writings seized? Even when we disagree with Abraham Friesen, a KG (now EMC) minister in Russia Menno, we need to move beyond (now Ukraine), said most being embarrassed by him. German Mennonites in Prussia no longer practiced Simons’ teachings and “were afraid Second, if it is paradoxical and ashamed to have these writings that an Anabaptist minister come to light” (Delbert Plett). would be blindly for or against Whether or not Friesen’s view Menno without reading his was accurate, there was a fear that work, how many current EMC other Christians would read them ministers have Menno’s Complete and “thereby acquire a hatred of Writings, check for his opinion, and the Mennonites” (Peter Toews). A refer to it occasionally? (Menno Lutheran farmer in Prussia was “dis- himself was concerned that we test pleased” after reading how Menno his teaching by the Word of God and Simons defended himself in the 16th that our focus be on Jesus.) century to Reformed and Lutheran Third, years ago Peter Toews leaders. German Mennonite leadpointed out the irony that in 1835 ers were concerned others would Mennonite leaders in Prussia respond similarly, which could affect confiscated Menno’s writings and the church’s shaky legal standing in then in 1860 wanted to construct Prussia. both a monument and a college in During the 1834-1835 controversy, his honour (for all of this story, see one German Mennonite minister was Delbert Plett, Golden Years, 321-324). quoted as saying he was dissatisfied Jesus was critical both of those with Menno’s writings, had never who stone prophets and those who read them, and would avoid them in later put up monuments to the prophthe future. ets without changing their lifestyle Menno was silenced in some (Luke 11:47). Neither confiscation nor churches that identified themselves glorification honours Menno Simons. by his name. If this seems strange, Confiscation, however, at least cares

enough to respond to what Menno wrote; indifference does not. After the confiscation, Menno’s writings translated into German were allowed to be shipped to Russia; they were sought by KG (now EMC) members and brought by them to Canada. How many EMC homes today contain the writings of Menno Simons in English? Even when we disagree with Menno, we need to move beyond being embarrassed by him. This Dutch former priest, a steady leader during the Radical Reformation, deserves our respect. Finally, in various ways Menno’s writings can still get us into trouble today—if we dare be bold.

news

Thoughts on the Nurturing Healthy Sexuality Conference In life there are some conversations that are difficult. As Christians we have a responsibility to use the Difficult conversations include situations where we scriptures as our foundation for the way we live our need to confront someone, times of disappointment, lives; this is true not just for sexuality but also for or discussing sensitive issues. When you do set out how we interact with people, run our businesses and to have a difficult conversation you have certain live out our everyday lives. hopes and goals ahead of time about the way it is We were disappointed that the workshop pregoing to go, and sometimes it does go that way and sentations were not better informed by biblical and other times it does not. ethical considerations. However, we recognize that In late 2008 the Mennonite this conference was a starting Central Committee (MCC) began point for conversation on an We found that the workshops issue that is often awkward and planning for the Nurturing Healthy Sexuality (NHS) conneglected by the church. that we did attend were ference that would be held in Now it is our responsibility lacking engagement with the February of 2010. As the initial to continue the conversation plans were being discussed there perhaps beginning at the local scriptures in the discussion. was a call for sponsors for the level. We can do this in Bible conference. study groups, youth and adult MCC’s Voices for Non-Violence was the organizing Sunday school classes and thereby do better with the committee and invited a number of other Christian next generation in terms of open discussion on what organizations and Mennonite Conferences to be we believe healthy sexuality should look like. involved. After attending the early meetings and We are created to be sexual beings and so it is hearing about the direction of the conference, the important that the church does some teaching on Board of Leadership and Outreach felt comfortable healthy sexuality. There were two themes that we in being a sponsor, believing that this was a converheard clearly at the conference. First, that churches sation whose time had come. need to say more to young people about sexuality At the NHS conference there were two plenary than merely prescribing sexual boundaries. Second, sessions and two workshops to attend. There were that the church needs to acknowledge that singles five different workshops to choose from on a variety are sexual beings, not just sexual beings in waiting. of subjects in the area of sexuality. Since we did not What could this look like within a biblical, healthy attend all of the workshops that were offered we approach to sexuality? cannot respond to all of them. Let’s continue the conversation, looking to the We found that the workshops that we did attend scriptures for direction and our foundation. We need were lacking engagement with the scriptures in the to give biblical guidelines for healthy sexuality, to discussion. The workshops relied on the personal our children, our youth, as well as adults of all ages. experiences and stories of those on the panel and David Thiessen with that led those in attendance in a certain Layton Friesen direction of thinking. We heard heartfelt accounts Kimberly Stoesz of difficulties those on the panel had experienced regarding their sexuality. The lack of biblical direcEditor’s note: All the writers are connected with tion was especially evident in the Sex, Sexuality, the EMC Board of Leadership and Outreach. The Sexual Orientation and (Com)Passion and Sex and the NHS conference was held at Canadian Mennonite Holy City workshops. University on Feb. 6, 2010.

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

news

Esau tours with Bethany College HEPBURN, Sask.—Benjamin Esau (Abbeydale) is part of Bethany College’s music ministry team Point of Impact that tours Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Each year the team memorizes a portion of scripture, which, when mixed with powerful music, assists a congregation in encountering Christ. Ben performed with the team at Bethany College’s annual Youth Advance. At Youth Advance both David Zentner (also Abbeydale) and Ben performed with their band called BCBU. Bethany College 8

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EMC graduates: (back) Andrew Buhler (Pineridge Fellowship Chapel), Diploma of Biblical Studies; Antonio Pitta (Ebenezer Church), BA Pastoral; Miles Neufeld (Kola), BA Youth; Carleen Plett (Heartland Community Church), BA Christian Studies; Willie Wall (Picture Butte), Diploma of Biblical Studies; (front) Allison Friesen (Kola), Diploma of Biblical Studies; Tracee Plett (Ridgewood), BA Peer Counseling; Diana Peters (Mount Salem), BA Christian Studies; Landis Krahn (Picture Butte), BA Peer Counseling.

Providence Theological Seminary PHOTOS COURTESY PTS

STEINBACH, Man.—Thirty students received their diplomas at Steinbach Bible College’s graduation ceremonies held at Steinbach EMC on Sunday, April 25, 2010. Among the graduates were 26 Bachelor of Arts recipients. This marks the largest graduating class in the past five years. The ceremonies were highlighted by the valedictorian address delivered by Nicole Friesen and the undergrad response given by Steven Brandt. The commencement address was brought by Tim Houck, speaker and trainer with Truth Matters Ministries. He challenged the graduates to take a step of faith and follow God into ministry opportunities. Ignite!, one of the ministry teams of the college, performed several songs and spoke of the message of hope and peace that come from faith in God. This wraps up an exciting weekend that started with the Spring Concert on Friday night, followed by the Grad Banquet which was held on Saturday Valedictorian Nicole Friesen renight. This concludes a strong ceives her diploma from Dr. Rob Reimer, SBC’s president. year of study at Steinbach Bible College. The faculty and staff look forward to spending some time recharging and preparing for another year in September. Remember to pray for our graduates as they leave the familiar surroundings of SBC and venture into the careers and ministries that God has prepared for them. Patrick Friesen Director of Communications

Left, Gerald D. Reimer (EFC Steinbach) Master of Arts, Educational Studies; right, Darryl G. Klassen (Kleefeld EMC) Master of Arts, Christian Studies

Michael Brandt (Rosenort EMC), Bachelor of Christian Studies

PHOTOS COURTESY BETHANY COLLEGE

PHOTOS COURTESY SBC

30 graduate at SBC

ExCITe: Experiencing Christ Together certificate graduates: Benjamin Esau (Abbeydale), David Zentner (Abbeydale), and Amanda Dueck (Rosenort Fellowship).

Daniella Guenther (EFC Steinbach), Diploma of Biblical Studies

PHOTO: DESIGNPICS.COM

Examining covenant community biblically by Pastor George Toews

t Rosenort EM Church there are listed 317 Scripture uses various images to describe this members, but only about 257 are active. On togetherness around the centre—Jesus. Ephesians any Sunday 400 people could attend because 5:29 speaks of the “body of Christ,” which reminds of regular non-members. Our Sunday morning atus that Christ is the head and the church is His tendance averages around 260. Who is the church? body. Ephesians 2:19-21 uses building imagery, The way in which belonging to a church is declaring that “in him the whole building is joined expressed is changing. Although together and rises to become many churches have formal a holy temple in the Lord.” membership, some have adopted Along with the centrality The church exists because new structures. Some have an of Christ, the Spirit is the of its relationship to Christ annual covenant; others simply unifying factor in the church. and His Spirit, which results identify those who are actively Ephesians 4:4 reminds us involved in ministry. “there is one body and one in a bond between all who Having a membership list Spirit.” These passages teach belong to Christ. has problems and formal memthe church exists because of bership is changing its forms its relationship to Christ and in some churches. In such flux, His Spirit, which results in a what biblical truths about belonging must continue bond between all who belong to Christ. to be a part of what churches do? This connection was immediately obvious on the first day of the Church. As soon as new believA Community in Christ ers were indwelt by the Holy Spirit, they behaved The meaning of church is identified by Jesus uniquely. They “devoted themselves to the apostles in Matthew 18:20, “For where two or three come teaching and to the fellowship.” “All the believers together in my name, there am I with them.” were together and had everything in common” and Church happens when people gather with Jesus at “they continued to meet together” (Acts 2:41-47). the centre. As we read on in the New Testament, the

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

language of community does not diminish. In Local Church Following ‘one another’ the letters of John, The above is intended of all through the New Testament likely written quite believers relating with one another. late, the same relationHow is that to be lived out practiteach one another ship is described and cally? In the New Testament the church encouraged; believers existed in local settings. are to love each other. The Paul wrote his letters to local congregabe subject to one New Testament assumes tions. We read in Ephesians 1:1, “To the another community and addresses saints in Ephesus.” The instructions in Christians in the context of those letters describe what the church is serve one another community. to be. From that observation alone, we Community is clearly gather the Bible recognizes that most hold one another seen in many passages which realistically church is lived out in local accountable speak about how believers gatherings of believers. should relate to one another. If encourage one we follow “one another” through Marking Belonging the New Testament letters, in Did the Early Church have a list another the church we are to teach one of those who belonged? The verse another (Romans 15:14), be suboften used in support is Acts 2:41. forgive one ject to one another (Romans 12:16), On the day of Pentecost “about another serve one another (John 13:14), hold three thousand were added to one another accountable (Galatians their number that day.” Does be engaged in 6:1-2), encourage one another (1 this really speak of a memberThessalonians 5:11), forgive one ship roll? To what were they mission together another (Ephesians 4:32), be engaged added? above all, love one in mission together (2 Corinthians Though that passage may 5:18-19) and, above all, love one another not entirely convince us, another (1 John 4:7). there was awareness in local churches of who was in a coveA Covenant Community nant relationship and who was not. That awareness Was this a natural relationship or was it an is demonstrated in 2 Corinthians 2:5-11. A man who intentional community? There was a close commusinned had been punished (1 Corinthians 5:1-5), and nity, but was it a covenant community? now Paul was encouraging the church to restore The intentionality of covenant is seen in him and reaffirm their love for him. How would Hebrews 10:24-25: “And let us consider how we may they discipline and receive him back if they did not spur one another on toward love and good deeds. belong to one another? Let us not give up meeting together. Let us encourWe also see a sense in 1 John 2:19: “They went age one another.” It is seen in Romans 12:5: “so in out from us, but they did not really belong to us. Christ we who are many form one body, and each For if they had belonged to us, they would have member belongs to all the others.” remained with us; but their going showed that none In an age when commitments to organizations of them belonged to us.” are often weak, the covenant the church expects of If such an awareness of who belongs and who those who belong is unique—not to an organization does not is membership, there were membership or a constitution, but a commitment to one another lists in the New Testament. Is it possible to have because of Christ. an awareness of who belongs and who does not To have purpose, to be intimately and caringly without a formal list? One current church with no involved with other people with the same goal, formal membership realized it must identify those mission, and eternity, is a powerful blessing to hold who belong, and includes all whose names are in on to. the address book. Whatever membership is, or becomes, this life To be in a covenant relationship, it is critical of intentional belonging to one another must be a to have a clear understanding of belonging to one part of it. another. It is not only necessary to acknowledge

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George Toews is senior pastor of Rosenort EMC. This article was adapted by him from his presentation at the national EMC ministerial meeting on Nov. 27, 2009, at Pleasant Valley EMC. His longer presentation is available from the EMC national office.

The historical trail of the EMC membership idea by Dr. Arden Thiessen

: EMC A

RCHIVE

s a pastor I promoted the idea that church membership is good. I often invited new people who joined us for worship to commit themselves to us by becoming members in a formal, official way. The common friendly rebuff was, “What’s the point? We feel we belong already. And what’s the big idea about membership anyway?” In response to such vaguely evasive thinking I explore here the origins of our church membership idea. It is common to begin our historical thinking with the Mafekin g, developments of the sixteenth and Lyd 19 64: Betty Ge ia Duec ary, Tw y k. lla Duec century in Europe. We ask, k , Pasto r Dave “How did those radical evangelical believers of the sixteenth century, who condemned the Catholic mother church in Rome as totally unbiblical and turned their backs on the venerable state church concept, arrive at the idea of an apolitical free church?” I find nothing to suggest that they had a vision, a plan, or a model for such a new system. However, in contrast to the corruptions of the state church, which they constantly criticized and decried, they were committed to living the life they saw depicted in the New Testament. They wanted to emulate the love, the fellowship, the purity, the loyalty to Christ, and the discipline that they saw pictured there. About this they preached and to this they witnessed. They baptized each other as true followers of Jesus, they loved and supported each other, and they disciplined those who drifted away. It didn’t take long before their movement began to look like a new church. Within a few decades they were labelled as such by their critics. PHOTO

this biblical truth in any future forms church belonging may take, but it is also important to ask, “Does our existing form of membership adequately maintain this biblical model of what it means to be the church?” Many questions remain about how we express belonging in the church, but some matters are clear. Christ is the centre and since we all belong to Him, we, by that very experience belong to each other. We are all indwelt by the same Spirit and therefore are one. The life of the Church is a life lived in a covenant relationship with one another and is expressed by all the words attached to the phrase “one another” in Scripture. These are the foundations which cannot be compromised as we consider how to live in covenant community. It is easy to succumb to cultural reluctance to be subject to others. Past experiences of abuse of power which the church has exercised give reason for reluctance. Has this caused us to back off from belonging and all it means? Can we find new forms which retain the centre of the biblical model? What can the Church offer to a fragmented and isolated world because of the concept of covenant community? How do we communicate this positively and invitingly to those in and outside of the Church? May the vision of the body of Christ, which in eternity will be one, guide us to meaningfully connect to Christ and to one another!

Early writings I find no evidence, after browsing Balthasar Hubmaier, Peter Riedemann, Dirk Philips, and Menno Simons, to suggest (continued p. 12) THE MESSENGER | May 2010

My impression is that those who were baptized upon the confession of their faith were simply, logically, regarded as members. according to His holy will all their days, or Pelly, 1971: Ju lian and Vale rie Andrusiak and Darlene from the moment of their call. (Complete ,M Andrusiak , Pa stor C. F. Due ervyn and Donna Abrah amson, Walte ck . Writings, 300). r My impression is that those who were baptized I summarize the process of Mennonite upon the confession of their faith were simply, church development as follows: The radicals of logically, regarded as members of the new fellowthe sixteenth century did not need the concept ships that were developing. Discipline dealt with of formal church membership. Those who were the baptized, that is, those who had entered their rebaptized as believers were in the fellowship. It fellowship. was within this informal fellowship of the rebapI find no evidence that exclusion meant the removal of a name from a list or roster. The idea tized that they practiced their concern for purity of just mechanically taking a name off a list would and sanctification. probably have seemed like a meaningless gesture to Those outside their fellowships also recognized them. the development of a distinct people in their midst and labelled them, derisively, the Anabaptists. The Russia fierce and violent persecution further established I move ahead to the Mennonite church in Russia the baptizers’ sense of self-identity and confirmed at the beginning of the nineteenth century. Klaas their sense of fellowship; they were the fellowship Reimer, the leader of the seceding Kleine Gemeinde of the persecuted and ostracized. group later renamed the Evangelical Mennonite With the Mennonite exodus to the east, Conference, writes as if he understands the concept beginning around 1550, their particular identity of a distinct church membership. was further confirmed because the authorities in 12

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

ARCHIVES

He speaks of the church in Neuenhuben, Prussia, where he began his ministry, as consisting of one hundred communicants. He also refers to a certain church member’s meeting (P.M. Friesen, The Mennonite Brotherhood in Russia, 127, 132). However, when C. Henry Smith reports of the church fraction in Russia, “Reimer, with eighteen others, seceded from the main body and organized a church of their own,” (Smith’s Story of the Mennonites, 275). He is probably counting family heads, not church members. Harold Bender reports that when the small group, in 1814, elected Klaas Reimer as their elder, they considered themselves to be an organized church (“Kleine Gemeinde,” GAMEO). Eventually, in 1843, the mainline Mennonite church recognized the Kleine Gemeinde as a separate church (P.J.B. Reimer, The Sesquicentennial Jubilee, 10).

PHOTO: EMC

that they understood our modern concept of church membership. Their early confessions all have statements on the nature of the church of Jesus Christ, but not on the local congregation and its membership. They do, however, speak of new believers being baptized into the fellowship, and they commonly emphasize that mutual care means they discipline those who stray away and deny the faith. Dirk Philips writes beautifully about the importance of joining “the congregation of God.” However, with this he means, not a list of people, but a fellowship of like-minded, sincere followers of Jesus Christ (Writings, 351). Menno Simons frequently describes the true church in contrast to the corrupt church of the world. Here is a good example: “They are the true congregation of Christ who are truly converted, who are born from above of God, who are of a regenerate mind by the operation of the Holy Spirit through the hearing of the divine Word, and have become children of God, have entered into obedience to Him, and live unblamably in His holy commandments, and

Prussia regarded them as foreigners, labelled them as such, and subjected them to various forms of discriminatory legislation, such as special taxes and restrictions on where they could settle. Consequently, the Mennonite people became, on a smaller scale, that from which they had earlier so passionately separated themselves, a state church. Church and community were one. It was only with the withdrawal of the Klaas Reimer group in 1812 and then the Mennonite Brethren separation in 1860 that specific church membership lists became essential (I’m not saying they didn’t have them earlier, just that they were not important enough to be mentioned in their records). But once they were a mixed community they found it essential to identify who belonged where.

In view of the ambiguous history of the church membership idea and the brevity of the Constitution statements, it is not surprising that questions have surrounded the issue. Canada In the early years of Kleine Gemeinde/ Evangelical Mennonite life in Canada it was the common practice to identify baptism with membership in the church. Those who were baptized were immediately received as members. The first Constitution of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference, published in 1960, stated clearly that membership in the local churches required baptism upon the confession of faith, but did not discuss whether baptism necessarily meant membership (29). The revision of 1979 says, “A person becomes a member of a local congregation by believer’s baptism and acceptance into fellowship” (40). The latest version, that of 1994, simply says, “A person identifies with the local congregation by believer’s baptism” (20). In view of the ambiguous history of the church membership idea and the brevity of the Constitution statements, it is not surprising that questions have surrounded the issue. It was addressed at three EMC Ministerial meetings, in 1973, 1987, and 2004. However, questions such as the following are still being asked: How valid is the tradition that baptism means

MEMBERSHIP IN THE LOCAL CONGREGATION 1. Conditions of Membership To qualify for membership in the local church, a person a) Must have a personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. b) Must have a satisfactory witness of being born again. c) Must be baptized on confession of faith. – from the EMC Constitution, 1960, p. 29 and 1973, p. 33 MEMBERSHIP IN THE LOCAL CHURCH 1. Conditions of Membership To qualify for membership in the local church, a person must a) have a personal faith commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ; b) have a witness of being a new creation in Christ; c) be in agreement with the Statement of Faith; d) be baptized on confession of faith. – from the EMC Constitution, 1994 (2007 Revision), p. 14

entry into formal church membership? Why do believers have to be baptized before they can be members of the church? How can church membership be a more meaningful reality than it currently seems to be for many? How can we deal graciously and helpfully with all those “members” who have dropped out, switched, or moved away? Why can’t believers who have received infant baptism elsewhere be received as members without rebaptism, especially if they have many years of Christian living and Christian service behind them? Let the discussions and the pilgrimage continue! Dr. Arden Thiessen is an educator within our conference. This article is adapted from his presentation at the national EMC ministerial gathering at Pleasant Valley EMC on Nov. 27, 2009.

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

A few thoughts on why I love my church

oday in church I was trying to grasp, coherently, why it is that I am so thankful to be in Vision Valley church. When we first arrived in Madagascar we took the “church tour,” which didn’t take long since there are only two English-speaking churches in Tana. We felt as though we would feel more comfortable at the English Chapel because the worship style and predominant faith practice was what we were used to, coming from what I’d call a traditional/ conservative Mennonite background. The other option, Vision Valley, seemed a bit, shall we say, disorganized. Their worship singing was difficult to adjust to (it made it difficult for

Strange how God leads us down paths that we would otherwise not follow. It has been a blessing to find ourselves at Vision Valley for the past two and a half years. 14

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

by Jocelyn R. Plett

us to enter into worship), the sound system was sub-par, and their faith practice included sharing “prophetic words,” something neither of us were used to (and therefore somewhat taken aback by perhaps). Strange how God leads us down paths that we would otherwise not follow. It has been a blessing, as clichéd as that phrase is, to find ourselves at Vision Valley for the past two and a half years. I have appreciated the leadership of our pastor and his wife immeasurably. He has wisdom in his teaching that finds us anticipating the times when he preaches. They have hospitality within that church body that I have never encountered elsewhere. Although the church is a denominational plant, there are many different Christian faith practices represented in the body, and we are encouraged to share despite our differences. We have learned to appreciate the practice of this charismatic Christian faith. Their “prophetic words” have, to my pleasure, turned out to be words directly from the Scriptural Word of God.

PHOTOS: Jocelyn R. Plett

I have come to appreciate None of these churches Many people within many the freedom of worship—no are perfect, but they all dog barking or “spiritual worship God in community. churches are not able to taste laughter,” no falling on the They all believe Jesus is and see other vibrant ways of floor. But should you learn to the Son of God, born of the sense the Spirit encouraging virgin Mary. They can all say celebrating God because we are you to lift your hands in the same creeds that outline afraid of something different. worship, to clap or shout out the foundations of our faith. the words of the song. Being here has helped This is a church body within which you will not me to understand that, not only within the church feel silly doing so, unless you’ve been bound within are there “parts of the body of Christ” as individuyourself to feel sheepish expressing worship in als, but I believe an authentic Christian church is “untraditional” ways. also a unique part of the body of Christ. In my experiences around the world I have had For where would the sense of hearing be, of the opportunity to attend Christian churches that listening and obeying the voice of the Spirit, if differ remarkably in their modes of worship and there would be no charismatics? approaching God. Where would the sense of contemplation and Perhaps in His wisdom God knows that for us to meditation be without the voice of the high churchcome to appreciate an alternate (but no less good!) es—the Anglicans and the Catholics? Such renowned way of celebrating Him and his Church body we voices (C. S. Lewis, A. W. Tozer, Henri Nouwen, must walk a mile—or a year—in their congregations. Brother Lawrence, Francis of Assisi) have written I am so thankful for the lack of choice I’ve had their words of wisdom that many of us have read and in the places around the world that forced/lead me received inspiration through from God himself. to become part of such a variety of church bodies: And what about the hands and feet bringing peace and mercy to the lonely and homeless as Mennonite tradition has strongly practiced? If I may be so bold, I think it’s sad that many people within many churches are not able to taste and see other vibrant ways of celebrating God because we, as humans, are afraid of (or disdain, or are uncomfortable with) something different. And so, to sum up, I am thankful for the stretching that we have experienced in our faith as we are a part of the Vision Valley community. I am thankful for the things we have learned: I can shout, “Glory to God!” in the morning’s worship, when a few years ago I could never have Vision Valley worship team, Tana, Madagascar done so. St. John’s Anglican Church and being part of its I can go to the front to testify how God has leadership team in Kaipeda, Lithuania. healed me from the oppression of fear thanks to the A welcome and frequent visitor at Nazareth prayers of the Saints from southern Manitoba. Baptist Church in Liepaja, Latvia. I can learn more about listening to the voice of We were sad to only be a part of the wonderthe Spirit from people who listen differently than I ful community of Gospel Mennonite Church in have. Winnipeg, Man., for such a short time, but so thankful to have experienced their way of practicJocelyn R. Plett and ing community and hosting jazz nights for the her husband Josh purpose of non-threatening witness. serve with Mission Our “home” church at Prairie Rose EMC with Aviation Fellowship in the traditions and deep history of faith that we Madagascar. This was both grew up in. written prior to their And now a part of the Vision Valley NCMI (New home assignment in Covenant Ministries International) church in Tana, Canada. Madagascar.

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

with our missionaries

WISCONSIN, USA Our family loves serving the Lord here at New Tribes Bible Institute. We have many opportunities to build sweet relationships with 200 students. It is fun having them in our home, and our boys think it is great having dozens of big brothers. As we spend time with the students, we listen, encourage, and disciple them, showing them how everything they need for each situation is found in Christ. Dave Field is on the teaching team, and he gets to see Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Word come alive to the students as they are taught verse by verse through the books of the Bible. The Lord is at work through His Word, teaching them, changing their hearts, and giving them a new reason for living; to bring Him glory through their life. May is coming soon, and our 80 seniors will be graduating. Many will continue on with the next step of missionary training, but wherever they go, they know Who their strength is for life, and that He is always enough. Dave and Kim Field www.ntm.org/dave_field

Dave and Kim Field (Steinbach) serve at New Tribes Bible Institute in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 16

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

The church is alive and growing! NICARAGUA The incessant cry of roosters in the morning, squawking parrots and guinea hens, earthquake tremors, and forty degree C heatâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;welcome to the beautiful land of Nicaragua! A brave group of EMC and MB members set out under the leadership of veteran missionaries Lester and Darlene Olfert, to encourage and connect with their brothers and sisters in a land where neither Low German nor English gets you far on the communication front. Believe it or not, when it was time to head back to Canada after four weeks, it was with a heavy heart and a desire to soon return. If I were limited to one item to report, I would say that the church is alive and growing in Nicaragua. It was a great encouragement to share times of fellowship and worship with several different churches. Experiencing firsthand the work that God has done over the years, through various missionaries like Lester and Darlene Olfert, was an

amazing testimonial to persevering for the sake of the gospel. It was also a blessing to get to know others from across Canada as we joined, far from the comforts of home, to work and worship together. The memories and connections made are many. The first team members were Dave and Agnes Kroeker, Dave and Pat Brandt, Lucia Bartsch, Theresa Petkau (all from Manitoba), and Pastor Jared Schroeder and myself from Alberta. We were able to bless the Mennonite churches in Nicaragua through painting the Camp Maranatha chapel and installing a t-bar ceiling.

It was a blessing to get to know others from across Canada as we joined to work and worship together. The second team were Pastor Harold and Laura Thiessen, Lucia Bartsch, Theresa Petkau (all from Manitoba), Eric and Karen Scheffer from British Colombia, and myself. The second team spent much of its time at CINAG, doing maintenance work, painting lines on the basketball court, and interacting with many children who took advantage of the programs services. The team

PHOTO COURTESY Zachari Hein

He is always enough

First team members with Nicaraguan workers and missionary Lester Olfert.

with our missionaries

PHOTO COURTESY Zachari Hein

was able to bless the church in Los Potrerillos through painting the inside of its building. I admit that it was not all back breaking work and no play. Nicaragua is a beautiful country with lots to see and do. Lester and Darlene treated both teams to a variety of outings where we enjoyed several sides of Nicaragua, from its proud history to its natural beauty. Volcanoes and cloud forests, beautiful cathedrals and lush coffee plantations were a refreshing break from days spent in rafters, were the thermometer hit 45 degrees C, or on the basketball court where the same thermometer nearly broke 50 C. These were also great times to get to know the other team members, witnessing the beauty of God’s creation. I recommend that others consider this trip in the future. Lord willing, I will be heading that way again. Zachari Hein

Second team members with missionaries Lester and Darlene Olfert.

God’s Word for the Roma Europe

Zachari Hein is a member of Mission Heights Community Church (Grande Prairie, Alta.).

Lesley and Marianne Fast live in The Netherlands and are involved with Bible translation and literacy work with Roma of Europe. During the past three years they were leading a team of people working in Germany and Romania. One area in which they assisted the team was to help plan and start

September 18, 2010 Steinbach Bible College www.SBCollege.ca Register Early Group Pricing Available

PHOTO COURTESY LESLEY FAST

1-800-230-8478

a translation project with a Roma translator in southern Romania. Another facet of the team’s work was to gain a clearer picture of what the social and language situation was among Roma in Romania generally and, more specifically, what that situation means for (potential) Bible translation. Two of the team members, Wilco and Talitha, were interviewed about the time they spent in Romania, working with the research team. The following article is taken from Wycliffe Nieuws (June 2009), a publication of Wycliffe Netherlands (used by permission, translated and edited by L. Fast). Wilco and Talitha van den Heuvel (Wycliffe Netherlands), with their children Mendel and Ruchama, lived in Romania from 2007 to 2009. As part of a small team, they were engaged in studying the language and society of the Roma people (Gypsies). (continued p. 18)

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

with our missionaries (continued from p. 17)

PHOTO COURTESY LESLEY FAST

The ultimate goal of this work, says Wilco, is “to bring the scriptures as close to the heart of Roma as possible, in whatever language or in whatever form, though our first concern is for speakers of Romani.” Approximately three million Roma live in Romania. They are a very diverse group in terms of their economic situation and social status. Wilco continues: “Contrary to popular stereotypes of ‘travelling Gypsies,’ the vast majority of Roma live permanently in one place. Some Roma are proud of their

ethnic origins and like to demarcate themselves through their clothing styles and other customs,” while others attempt to blend in more with main-stream society.

BOM PROJECT: Curacaví, Chile During the past two years Chile has been mentioned in EMC circles as a possible new destination for EMC mission work. The Board of Missions has decided not to pursue long term ministry in Chile as the Evangelical church is much stronger in Chile than in many other locations in Latin America. The country of Chile has an Evangelical population of 16% (Operation World). The Love in Action church in Calgary has a number of members that have emigrated from Chile to Canada in past years. With these connections, the Love in Action congregation have assisted in the beginning of a new congregation in Curacaví, situated 20 minutes from the Santiago airport. Pastor Carlos and Ruth Vera will be traveling to Chile

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

$2,000

this fall to assist this local church to make connections with an association of Anabaptist churches in the Santiago area. Pastor Carlos will be meeting with this association to pursue the possibility of bringing together the Curacaví church and the association. The mission board supports this desire and recognizes the importance of the body of Christ to care for one another in this way. The EMC Board of Missions has approved a project of $2,000 to assist Pastor Carlos and the Love in Action church with this desire. If you would like to give to this special project, please designate your gift: Curacaví Chile. For information on this project call the EM Conference office. Ken Zacharias, Foreign Secretary

About 50 per cent of Roma speak Romani as their main language. Nearly all Romani-speakers—except for young children—also speak the language of the non-Roma who live around them. In name, Roma usually identify themselves with the religion of the surrounding majority population. Wilco elaborates: “So, in Romania most Roma are Orthodox. However, especially since the fall of the Wall in 1989, many Roma are joining Baptist and Pentecostal churches. For many of them, coming to faith means a major change in their life, something that is noticed by outsiders.” As of January 2010, Lesley and Marianne Fast’s roles have changed somewhat. Marianne, though still connected informally with the Romani team, is now working with Wycliffe Netherlands in personnel and publicity. Lesley continues with the Romani team as translation advisor and also teaches translation at SIL’s European Training Programme UK Campus. Lesley and Marianne Fast

Lesley and Marianne Fast (Blumenort) have been involved in Bible translation and literacy since 1986.

window on missions by Ken Zacharias, Foreign Secretary kzacharias@emconf.ca

hose who are involved in business or farming understand well the careful deliberations in making the decision to expand your business or in purchasing more land and cattle. These decisions are not made lightly as they will affect long-term the life for your family. Likewise, the EMC Board of Missions has been having discussions and careful deliberations in respect to expansion by considering new ministry opportunities: the city of Guadalajara (in Mexico) and in Bolivia (among Low German Mennonite people). The Board of Missions received two recommendations at its April meeting: (1) to expand into Guadalajara and (2) to enter into formal discussions with our sister conferences in Canada who are currently serving in Bolivia. Decisions on these two recommendations will be made on July 1, 2010. These decisions would then be presented to the conference council on July 3, 2010, in Leamington, Ont. Representatives from the board have visited the two targeted locations and met with many individuals who are working within these

Guadalajara is the birthplace of Mariachi band music.

contexts. The board has deliberated over the pros and cautions of each location and has discussed at length how the pending decisions will affect the EMC family. As our own family members are Bolivia: Ministry is much needed among Low German Mennonite people. different one from missionaries in a church planting the other, so is our EMC family. The two locations should not be looked at ministry. Bolivia is an opportunity where as two options, but rather as two new ministry is much needed among Low opportunities for our family to be German Mennonite people. Some of involved in reaching out to others. you within our EMC family are fluent Guadalajara is a large city of 6.5 in speaking Low German and have million people with an evangelical the cultural preparation needed to population of two per cent or less. work in partnership with ministries The need is great; and evangelical already in progress in Bolivia. We churches and North American do not want to miss this invitation mission agencies ministering in which we feel the Lord may be giving Guadalajara express the need for us at this time. more witnesses to join them in this In preparation for making the city. decision on July 1, the Board of We, as an EMC family, have been Missions is asking for input and blessed with more than fifty years of feedback. We welcome the quesministry among Spanish-speaking tions that you have regarding either people in Latin America and more Guadalajara or Bolivia. Your quesrecently in Canada. In Guadalajara, tions, for example, may be in respect the boardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s desire would be to to strategy, partnership, or finances. place a team of We invite you to please send your The two locations questions to info@emconf.ca or call Ken Zacharias at 204-326-6401. should not be Throughout this process of looked at as deliberation, the Board of Missions two options, but has not forgotten to pray for wisdom, direction, and peace in making the rather as two decision to expand. Can we ask you new opportunities to pray for the Board of Missions during the month of June in preparato reach out to tion for July 1?

others.

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

PHOTOS: Ken Zacharias

Board of Missions considers Guadalajara and Bolivia

with our churches

PINERIDGE FELLOWSHIP CHAPEL, Hudson Bay, Saskatchewan A – Annual meeting, Andrew Buhler student at SBC B – Baptism of Andrew Buhler, Bethlehem Marketplace C – Cooking at Churchill Place, Creation Ministries Intl. by Rod Walsh

Quilts made by the church ladies for Haiti.

D – DVD FireProof with popcorn and weekly follow-up study E – Executive Director with MCC Living Stones tour F – Five-Day Club, farewells, funeral for Anne Buhler G – Great times at summer camps and with music groups H – Health Care birthday parties and services I – Inspiring messages by Pastor Fred on Why Jesus Came J – Joy in serving behind the scenes K – Kids club Fiesta and Wind-up program for families, Ketchen Lake Camp promo L – Live from Bethlehem—Christmas program

Anola goes fishing ANOLA FELLOWSHIP CHAPEL, Manitoba

PHOTO: jessica wichers

few of the guys from Anola Fellowship Chapel got their heads together this winter and engineered our first ever Ice Fishing Derby. On a Saturday in early March (right before the ice started to thaw), 38 people of all ages took their fishing gear out on the ice at Balsam Bay on Lake Winnipeg.

AFC fishers wait by the holes for “the big one.”

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

The derby was four hours long, in which participants set up fishing rods next to holes in the ice in hopes of catching a fish. And some were successful! The largest fish caught was a 52 cm Northern Pike, caught by Benjamin Wiebe. Second place was a 48 cm Northern Pike caught by Derek Wichers. Jessica Wichers

PHOTOS: YVONNE YOUNG

A to Z 2009 of Pineridge Fellowship Chapel

New Year’s Eve games night

M - Men’s breakfasts with testimonies and devotionals N – New Year’s Eve family games night, NBC Doors-A Parable play O – Opportunities to care and share P – Prayer Pals, potlucks Q – Quilting for MCC, and fire quilts R – Region 3 Family Conference, Rio Grande Institute, S - Stoney Lake camp promo, S.S. picnic, school kits, Samaritan’s Purse shoe boxes T – Times of prayer, Thanksgiving supper U – Understanding and applying truths from God’s Word V – Visitation outreach, various ladies ministries W – S.S. and Worship services X – ’Xpecting great things in 2010 Y – Yes, 2009 is gone, 2010 is here, may we all be Z – Zealous for the One who gave his life on our behalf, and may others come to know Him as Saviour and Friend. Andrew Buhler shared about his mission trip. We have had more farewells from our congregation, but we are hearing that they are a blessing to other congregations and communities. The Truth Project is underway. Do you really believe that what you believe is really real? Yvonne Young

with our churches

PORTAGE EVANGELICAL CHURCH, Portage la Prairie, Manitoba

n Friday, March 19, about 35 of us from Portage Evangelical Church packed up our bags for the six hour drive to Moose Jaw, Sask. We spent the weekend at a youth drop-in centre called Joe’s Place, hanging out with the youth, helping out, and learning about how the whole ministry started. As a youth group we experienced the theatrical tour of the underground tunnels in Moose Jaw. This really opened our eyes to the history and brokenness the city was built on as they smuggled booze through the tunnels to make their living.

This helped us understand the circumstances that Moose Jaw is under today, as generational sin has been carried on throughout the years. This is seen through the serious addictions and struggles youth are currently facing. Joe’s Place is open throughout the week and provides a great place for youth to hang out with their friends in a safe environment, have a listening ear, receive hope and encouragement, and explore their personal talents. There are many activities provided to the youth at Joe’s Place: concerts, Bible studies, art nights, motorcycle fix nights, and the dance team. Our group had a great time experiencing the life of ministry at

Members received, eyes opened STRAFFORDVILLE EMC, Ontario

PHOTO: tina Siemens

membership reception was held for Henry and Helen Thiessen on August 31. They have served and have been a part of the church for a while. In front of the church, Henry and Helen shared their story of what Jesus has done in their lives. Pastor Richard Klassen did the service and the ministerial welcomed them as a part of the church.

The youth did the worship service on February 7. They led congregational singing, shared a poem, and sang songs; one youth shared her

Joe’s Place, touring Moose Jaw, and getting to know God and each other better. During the many hours of driving we spent our time on the bus singing, playing games, sleeping, doing group devotions, and just hanging out. Jessica Kroeker

PHOTO COURTESY LES KROEKER

PEC youth travel to Joe’s Place

Winter 2010 Portage youth retreat

testimony and a devotional was also given. We see many skills and gifts progressing as they grow to be adults and, hopefully, one day become leaders in the church. The service was followed by a soup and pie lunch; it was a fundraiser for the youth mission trip to Toronto. They went for a weekend in March, where they served the homeless. They also did a prayer walk in the city. The youth shared about the trip on the following Sunday. Eyes were opened, and they were encouraged and motivated to further serve the Lord. Tina Siemens

Pastoral couple Richard and Kathy Klassen, new members Helen and Henry Thiessen

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

with our churches

East meets West at Wymark WYMARK EMC, Saskatchewan

PHOTOS COURTESY Marvin Allan

n January 2010 Pastor Paul Little and his wife Amy and family flew to Saskatchewan for a two-week candidating experience at Wymark EMC. While they were here, a prairie blizzard blew in with a foot of snow and blocked roads. The Littles made an excellent impression on the congregation, and our prairie weather did not frighten them away. At the annual congregational meeting in February it was voted to request Paul Little to become our full-time pastor. After seeking Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading, his reply was affirmative.

Pastor Little graduated from New Brunswick Bible Institute in 2000; the school was established by teachers from Millar College of the Bible in Pambrun, Sask. In 2006 Paul completed his BA degree from the Atlantic Baptist University. Paul had been preaching at Jacksontown Baptist Church, in New Brunswick, for the past three and a half years. Paul is the son of a Baptist preacher in New Brunswick. Amyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s father, Dwight Munn, is currently pastor of Mission Heights Community Church (EMC) in Grande Prairie, Alta. On March 4, Paul and his sons arrived in Saskatchewan driving a

A light supper was served after the installation service.

New members at KEMC PHOTOS: louella Friesen

KLEEFELD EMC, Manitoba

Ray and Dawn Oude Vashaar were baptized on April 18, 2010, at Kleefeld EMC.

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

Traci Naylor (shown here with her husband Will) transferred her membership to Kleefeld EMC on April 18, 2010.

Louella Friesen

The Little family: Keagon, Amy with Amareis, Paul, and Jaedon.

U-Haul truck and towing the family car. He picked up Amy and their daughter at the Regina airport. They arrived in Chortitz that afternoon and were met by a work crew who quickly unloaded the U-Haul. The manse had been cleaned and painted, and Amy has quickly made it look like home. On Sunday evening, March 28, 2010, an installation service was held. Conference pastor David Thiessen spoke and gave Paul and Amy some excellent advice based on his many years as a pastor. A large crowd was present for this installation service and faspa (a light supper) was served afterward. A tribute was made and thank you was given to Archie and Sylvia Neufeld, who have been interim pastors at Wymark for the past two years. Paul and Amy Little have three children: Jaedon (8), Keagon (6), and Amareis (4). This young, energetic family is settling in well into the Wymark community. Amy comments on the huge prairie sky and the fact that it is seldom cloudy and grey. She says that in New Brunswick a sunny day is often followed by two or three days of rain and clouds. Oh give me a home where the buffalo roam, And the skies are not cloudy all day. Marvin Allan

with our churches

Mission experience highlight of the year

PHOTO COURTESY BETTY BARKMAN

well. Travis Patenaude is spending a number of months there to help out at the mission in whatever ways he can. He was part of last year’s team PANSY CHAPEL, Manitoba and he simply couldn’t get the needs off his heart without definite highlight of doing something about it. We the year is our mission are so proud of you, Trav! adventure in the Ensenada We have also been area of Mexico. In February praying for Harry and Levina a group of us, 22 people in Friesen as they laboured total, went there to build in love among Paraguayan and give homes to two very Mennonites for a couple of needy families in the area. months. A lot of energy gets At home, Easter celebrapoured into a project like tions are always special. A team of 22 people went to Ensenada, Mexico, to build homes for this, but Dennis Friesen does Good Friday with its depth needy people. an excellent job of leading us of worship, reflective spirit, and YUGO ministries seems to be a and open communion is a more On March 21 we packed out the good fit for our congregation at this or less somber occasion. But then church for a sharing of these memopoint. comes Sunday. Sunday School classes ries, pictures, PowerPoint and more, To all those who went, the experi- as well as munching on goodies bring a special presentation, centred ence and the bonding that goes with around the cross, and the specially together in the end. It was a lovely it, among ourselves, toward our done choirs sing out songs of vicevening. recipients and even with the staff, tory. Christ is risen! Yes, He is risen One of us, by pre-arranged becomes a permanent and treasured indeed! planning, stayed behind, so part of memory. Betty Barkman our hearts remained with him as

Blankets sent to Haiti VANDERHOOF CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP, British Columbia

I PHOTOS: STephanie braun

n February, we had the opportunity to make blankets to send to

Haiti. Eva Miller donated blanket tops she had made. The batting and backing was donated by some businesses in Vanderhoof. Many volunteers, from our

congregation and some from the Gospel Chapel, made 45 blankets. A total of 56 blankets were sent with love and prayers for those who survived the tragic earthquake in Haiti. Stephanie Braun

A total of 56 blankets were sent to Haiti.

Many volunteers were involved in making blankets. THE MESSENGER | May 2010

with our churches

HEARTLAND COMMUNITY CHURCH, Landmark, Manitoba

n February 28, 2010, Kim Stoesz, pastor for Braeside EMC, spoke at our church on the importance of building a church. The focal point of her sermon was not on the physical features of a building per se, but rather, on building each

Carleen Plett served for three weeks in Guyana.

other up inside these walls in order to be a positive influence outside the church structure. In this report, I want to focus on the youth of Heartland Community Church. Carleen Plett, our SBC 2010 graduate, has been pulled, stretched, and somewhat dislocated for three weeks in January of this year, as she served on a short-term missions exposure, in Guyana, South America. Her team ministered at a local church and helped with kids club then they donned life jackets and courage for a seven-hour boat ride upriver to reach an Amerindian village. Being exposed to a different culture definitely had its challenges, she shared, but after only three weeks part of her heart stayed behind. Carleen has also served here in Landmark when she volunteers her 24

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

valuable time to build up the youth of this community (YFC: Landmark). Tiffany Froese, our local torch bearer, ran off with the Olympic flame down a long cold Manitoba highway in Sanford, Man., on January 7, 2010. Tiffany has also been involved enthusiastically in the Canadian Tire Jumpstart Program, which helps support local kids who would like to participate in sports, but cannot afford the fees. Tiffany has proven that Canada’s heart still beats proudly with goodwill. She raised $7,480 for this cause, and was the top fundraiser in Canada overall, which has also earned her a trip for two to participate in an international soccer camp in South Africa. She will be our proud fan in the stands of a FIFA World cup soccer match. Tiffany’s passion for playing sports and her desire to serve those in her own community has also led her to be involved right here in Landmark where she will be a referee this summer in Landmark’s in-house kid’s soccer program. Way to go, Tiff!

earthquake relief. Jeremy’s parents gladly matched the donations. The rest of our talented teens have been quite active in our community. If they’re not busy playing in the church’s youth band, or gathering for 7 a.m. prayer meetings, then they’re involved with making a joyful noise, either in the school choir or musical drama programs which are both are under the direction of a very dedicated and gifted teacher, Merrilee Plett. Some of our youth are also taking Rachel’s challenge: a program which encourages youth to promote goodwill among their peers. It was inspired by the life of Rachel Scott who was the first person killed at Columbine high school on April 20, 1999. Whatever their talents, our youth and their youth leaders have the desire to make a difference both at home and abroad. Brigitte Toews

PHOTOS COURTESY Brigitte Toews

Building the church

Our talented teens have been quite active in our community. Jeremy Dueck. Has anyone seen Jeremy Dueck lately? Oh, there he is. We didn’t recognize you sitting in church without your thick mullet! Jeremy, who recently clogged the drain of our baptismal tank last fall, was dared, by some of his friends, to shave off his hair for Haiti

Tiffany Froese carried the Olympic flame in Sanford, Man., on January 7.

news

Low German cookbook affirms women How God leads is sometimes puzzling

PHOTO: Leona dueck Penner

In 2004 Radio Trans Mundial management in Bolivia asked When women asked for recipes on paper, I decided to me to host the Low German women’s and children’s promake a Low German recipe book. Not only are there recigrams. I spoke the language and had grown up in a colony in pes, there are prayers and encouragements for the everyday the Paraguayan Chaco. housewife, proverbs, and stuff to laugh about. Workers in Bolivia suggested giving women a simple It is a family-oriented book where mothers and daughrecipe and a word of encouragement. We ters, children and grandchildren can called the women’s program Met Helen en get involved together. I encourage de Kjäakj (With Helen in the Kitchen) and their creativity and tell them they all the children’s program Komm Kjikje (Come have gifts. and See). I receive many calls and letters When my husband and I went to Bolivia from people who use the books for in 2007, women were overwhelmed to see their daily devotions. my face and children eagerly met me. By now, over 2,000 books have We had a two-week Bible school. I had been sent to Bolivia, Paraguay, one hour per evening with women. I did Mexico, and Belize, thanks to a live Low German Martha Stewart-Style sponsorship of many church ladies Cooking Show! I showed simple, delicious groups. recipes and told stories in the children’s Helen Funk, Radio Trans Mundial Helen Funk with a tray of cookies and a copy of class. her Low German recipe book.

VMC ordains 26, launches training institute

PHOTOS: Gerry Keener

Government officials send congratulations to leaders HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam —On March 20, thirty students graduated from a pastoral training class and 26 Mennonite pastors were ordained from all over Vietnam. The 30 graduates had met one week per quarter for four years. Pastor Nguyen Quang Trung, Vietnam Mennonite Church (VMC) chairman, officiated at the joyful ceremony. For 30 years Trung led a group of Mennonites when the church was not recognized by the government; now, government officials sent congratulations to the newlycredentialed leaders. A week later came the official opening of the

EMM worker Gerry Keener, Canadian theologian Palmer Becker, Pastor Trung, Pastor Lee, and Pastor Jun Sae Lim pray for Pastor Nguyen Minh Sang, VMC general secretary, who was credentialed.

Vietnam Mennonite Institute in Theology and Renewal. It offers a bachelor’s degree program in theology, has 14 students, and had finished its first week of classes. The VMC has 90 churches, about 8,500 members, 140 pastors and evangelists. MCC entered Vietnam in 1954, EMM workers in 1957. A local church grew to around 150 baptized members before being closed in 1978. EMM workers left in 1975. For 15 years without contact with North America, Nguyen Quang Trung worked to register the church. In 1997 EMM workers re-entered the country. In 2007 the government recognized the VMC, which allowed it to legally organize its own leadership training schools. MWC, EMM

Pastor Nguyen Quang Trung, VMC chairman, gives the ordination charge to 26 leaders. THE MESSENGER | May 2010

news

MDS celebrates 60 years of service SASKATOON, Sask.—If Mennonite Disaster Service vol1950, people gathered at Whitestone Mennonite Church in unteers took away one central theme from the annual MDS Hesston, Kansas, to express their common desire to “seek All-Unit Meeting it was this: Jesus is fundamentally defined opportunities to be engaged in peaceful, helpful activity— by generosity and His followers should be also. just where we find ourselves.” These meetings resulted in Over 150 people attended the annual MDS All-Unit Mennonite Service Organization, which later became MDS. Meeting, held February 12-13, 2010, at Warman (Sask.) Past executive coordinators Lowell Detweiler (1986-1997) Bergthaler Mennonite Church. Groups from different exhorted listeners to remember why MDS exists. “It’s not for Anabaptist backgrounds gathered from many parts of MDS, it’s for other people.” Canada and the U.S. for worship, storytelling, and celebraBrian Pipkin, MDS tion, commemorating 60 years of MDS service. Last year alone, MDS served a total of 245 homeowners and sent 3,856 volunteers serving people from American Samoa to long-term recovery efforts along the Gulf Coast. A total of 28,536 days of service were given by MDS volunteers in 2009 and more than 500,000 since 1950. For 60 years, MDS has been committed to a theology of service. In MDS volunteers clean debris after 1955 Kansas tornado. Past MDS Executive Coordinators, Lowell

MDS fixes forgotten houses

Detweiler and Tom Smucker, share their stories during a panel interview.

Mennonite Disaster Service continues to work in areas that seem forgotten

PHOTOS: Scott Sundberg

FRANKLIN, La.—In four years many areas of the US Gulf Coast were hit by four hurricanes: Katrina, Rita, Gustav and Ike. But most people seem to only remember Katrina and Rita. Hurricane Ike was the third largest hurricane to hit the U.S., with damage estimated at $24 billion. Over 5,000 volunteers worked on 1,021 projects, with over half of the jobs and volunteers through MDS.

Of one homeowner, Rita Simoneaux (Miss Rita), MDS volunteer Carolyn Ringenberg said, “She didn’t fit anywhere to get help. She was one of those many people who applied for every kind of help, but got nothing. We need to look for those most in need.” Before MDS fixed her house, Miss Rita did dishes in her bathtub, he said. Now she has a new sink and a house that she said makes her feel like Cinderella. “Everybody said this house couldn’t be fixed,” said Miss Rita. “Now it’s gorgeous.” Dick Neudorf, from Winnipeg, Man., declared, “I wish we could have started on this house ten years earlier!”

MDS

Hurricane Ike was the third largest hurricane to hit the U.S., with damage estimated at $24 billion. Miss Rita in her Cinderella house rebuilt by MDS.

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

Dick Neudorf helped make Miss Rita’s windows workable and safe.

PHOTOS COURTESY MDS

Jesus ‘defined by generosity’

news

MCC seeks dialogue with Timber Bay families Commitment to just and healthy relationships extends to former residents of home

MCC initiated the invitation at this particular time because it desires healing and reconciliation.

The home operated under various owners and administrations from the early 1950s until 1993. MCC Canada and MCC Saskatchewan supported the home by providing service workers from 1974-1989 when TBCH was owned and administered by the BIC Church. Clarie Ewert Fisher, MCC Saskatchewan’s executive director, said she wants former residents and their families to know that over the years MCC has been working at repairing relationships between the broader Canadian society and First Nations and Métis Peoples, and that this commitment to just and healthy relationships extends to former residents of the home. MCC Canada PHOTO COURTESY NCEM

SASKATOON, Sask.—In a recent letter, MCC expressed its desire to reach out and establish healthy relationships with former residents of the Timber Bay Children’s Home and the communities of Lac La Ronge, Timber Bay, and Montreal Lake. “As we reflect on the story of Timber Bay Children’s Home we have become aware of pain that some former residents have felt and, because of our association with the home, we would welcome the opportunity for dialogue,” reads the letter, signed by MCC Canada and MCC Saskatchewan. MCC initiated the invitation at this particular time because it desires healing and reconciliation. The Timber Bay Children’s Home was not a residential school. Also known as the Montreal Lake Children’s Home, it supported families from remote communities in northern Saskatchewan who wished to send their children to Timber Bay School operated by the Province of Saskatchewan.

Part of Timber Bay Children’s Home, mid-1990s.

Growth at Eden requires more space Addictions counseling and employment program meet urgent needs

PHOTO COURTESY EDEN

WINKLER, Man.—Two new programs of Eden Health Care load grew, another minister, Stan Krahn, was also hired. Services have grown so rapidly in Eden’s Segue employment prothe past three years that additional gram is also rapidly growing. It space is needed. provides assessments and evaluates Eden’s newest program is employment skills and interests and Mennonite Addictions Services, then assists participants to actively a partnership between four conconduct a job search. gregations and Eden Health Care Participants are supported Services. This program provides bibthrough job coaching, assistance in lically-based, cultural and language adapting, and between employerspecific counseling and support for participant contact. Follow-up serindividuals, couples, and families vices are provided. experiencing challenges because of The expansion will use availaddictions. able space near the Segue and Eden Initially, Bishop David Wiebe of Health Care Services offices in downthe Sommerfeld Church received town Winkler. Keith Doerksen, David Wiebe and James Friesen stand the training to provide counseling Eden in front of what will be a new street level access to and support. When the counseling expanded Eden services.

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

news

Colombian displacement continues A call for prayer and action for five million displaced persons

BOGOTÁ, Colombia—On April 11, the Momento por la Paz On banners with human figures drawn on them, (Moment for Peace) met at noon at Teusaquillo Mennonite Teusaquillo church people expressed greetings and gratiChurch (TMC) here as people have for 10 years. They spent tude to their brothers and sisters in Canada and the US time in Bible reading and prayer and then discussed inforfor solidarity during days of prayer and action for peace in mation and action concerning peace in their country where Colombia. war has uprooted and killed people for 60 years. In 2009, approximately 25,000 people commemorated Most who attended were internally displaced persons the Days of Prayer and Action for Colombia. In the US, people who fled to Bogotá, a city of about seven milsent 21,000 postcards to President Obama lion, to find some safety. They are frightened calling for change in U.S.-Colombia In 2009, approximately people who continue to be persecuted and relations. hunted, fearing assassination. Colombia is now home to close to five 25,000 people They come to TMC, near downtown million internally displaced persons, the commemorated the Bogotá because they have been told they largest registered number in any country, might find a haven or help, says Peter according to sources. Days of Prayer and Stucky, a pastor and MWC general council A potential trade deal between Canada Action for Colombia. member. “So they come looking for support and Colombia may exacerbate violence and peace.” around land rights and add to the already massive displacement of Colombians. MWC

MCC partners in Congo injured in attack Vehicle ambushed on return from visit

AKRON, Pa.—Staff members of a MCC Minerals mined there have low prices, the partner organization in the eastern part of result of illegal and abusive practices. Millions of civilians the Democratic Republic of the Congo were Millions of civilians are caught between are caught between armed injured when their vehicle was ambushed by groups battling for control. Congo armed men March 20. has one of the largest Mennonite populaarmed groups Four men and two women were returning tions in the world, with about 230,000 battling for control. to the city of Bukavu in South Kivu province members in three denominations. after visiting a site designated for a humaniDismas Kyanza and Suzanne Lind, MCC tarian aid project in cooperation with MCC. They work with the Ministry for Refugees and Emergencies (MERU), Dismas Kyanza directs MERU in South Kivu province; Suzanne a department of the Church of Christ in Congo (in French Lind is MCC co-representative, with Tim Lind, for the DRC. acronym, ECC). ECC is a national council of churches that includes Congolese Mennonites. The men and women were beaten, slashed with knives, Subscribe to The Messenger on-line and robbed before being released. The women were Issues of The Messenger are posted on-line in pdf format hospitalized with knife cuts and serious bruises. at www.emconf.ca/Messenger. All you need to view the Eastern Congo has been caught in fighting and destrucissue is Adobe Acrobat Reader (software free to download at tion for the past decade. The conflict has many causes, adobe.com). including ethnic tensions related to the 1994 genocide in To receive an e-mail notification when the issue is neighboring Rwanda. posted on-line, send an e-mail to messenger@emconf.ca. Most fighting is over the unregulated mining industry. Provide your name, mailing address, and e-mail address, and Congo has vast resources of gold, tin, diamonds and indicate whether you wish to continue receiving the print version. coltan—a metal used in laptop computers and cell phones. 28

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

news

Dutch Mennonites voice views on war and peace Views against war expressed in various ways STRASBOURG, France—“The board of ADS (Algemene Doopsgezinde Sociëteit) is convinced that it is the task of the church to witness about the peace of Christ and not to give the government arguments to prolong involvement in any war,” said Henk Stenvers, MWC General Council delegate from The Netherlands. Stenvers was part of a delegation of the Dutch Council of Churches that spoke with government representatives in 2007 when the government contemplated prolonging the Dutch presence in Afghanistan. The government decided to prolong its mission, but only until 2010. The ADS board also suspended its membership in IKV Pax Christi, (Church Peace Council) after its director supported prolonging Dutch involvement in the war in Uruzgan province, Afghanistan. The board felt the IKV’s stance implies agreement with the concept of “just war.” “We Mennonites are convinced that war never brings peace,” said Stenvers. Leaders of the Dutch Mennonite Church wrote to

Mennonite Church USA in December 2009, expressing concern about President Barack Obama’s call for the U.S. troop escalation in Afghanistan.

“We Mennonites are convinced that war never brings peace,” said Hank Stenvers. Ed Diller, MC USA moderator, responded by letter, saying, “Along with you, Mennonite Church USA is deeply concerned about military build-up in Afghanistan.” Dutch Mennonites have launched a Dutch branch of Christian Peacemaker Teams. Could there be more cooperation on speaking to governments on peace issues at a global level? Stenvers wonders, suggesting it be a task for the MWC General Council Peace Commission. MWC

Peter J. Dyck leaves legacy of service

PHOTO COURTESY rebecca dyck

AKRON, Pa.—Peter J. Dyck—storyteller, Mennonite pastor, author, and lifelong servant to needy people worldwide— died of cancer on Jan. 4 at 95. Dyck, who lived in Scottdale, Pa., was well known in Anabaptist and wider circles for working with Russian Mennonite refugees and MCC. Born in Russia, Dyck was a child when the revolution occurred, and he almost died in the famine of 1921. Dyck and his family were rescued by food shipments sent from Mennonites in North America. His family fled Russia and settled in Saskatchewan. During World War Two he served with MCC in England. In 1944 he married Elfrieda Klassen, a nurse serving there with MCC. Once the war ended, the Dycks moved to The Netherlands to direct a relief effort. In 1946, Dycks led Peter J. Dyck

5,500 Mennonites by boat to South America. Dyck later served as a pastor, co-directed MCC’s programs in Germany and North Africa, and then was an administrator focused on East-West relations during the Cold War. For two decades after his “retirement” from MCC in 1981, Dyck traveled to speak at churches, schools, and retreats. He donated his body to a university’s medical faculty. A memorial service was held at Akron Mennonite Church on Jan. 9. MCC

PHOTO: mcc

Lifelong servant dies at age 95

Elfrieda and Peter Dyck stand together at Bremerhaven, Germany, in 1948, escorting the Volendam group of refugees. Bremerhaven was the port from which the ships departed.

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

A new issue of Theodidaktos: Journal for EMC theology and education is available free. Check it out on-line at www.emconf.ca Bundles of copies are also sent to churches; check with your church leader to pick up a print copy. For additional print copies contact Rebecca Roman at 204-326-6401 or rroman@emconf.ca.

Has your church used Follow Me?

Keenager Choir to perform Variety concert (choir, solos, duets, instrumentals) June 8, 2010, 7 p.m. Braeside EMC 1011 Munroe Ave Winnipeg, Manitoba No admission; offering for MCC will be taken. Refreshments to follow.

Portage EMCers, Where Are You?

View a sample chapter at www.emconf.ca/publications.htm To order copies ($2.50 each, plus shipping) contact Rebecca Roman, 204-326-6401 or rroman@emconf.ca.

births BARKMAN – to Trevor and Val Barkman of Winnipeg, Man., a son, Emmett Alexander, on Nov. 29, 2009.

KORNELSON – to Mike and Naomi Kornelson of Steinbach, Man., a son, Xander Gabriel, on Nov. 6, 2009.

BERG – to Danny and Beth Berg of Steinbach, Man., a son, Benjamin David, on Nov. 19, 2009.

LOEWEN – to Abe and Leona Loewen of Aylmer, Ont., a son, Jarvis Dalaney, on Mar. 6, 2010.

BROWN – to Lyndon and Chery-Lynn Brown of Winnipeg, Man., a daughter, Karis Liesel, on Mar. 20, 2010.

REDDEKOPP – to Pete and Lisa Reddekopp of Aylmer, Ont., a son, Trevor Michael, on Jan. 15, 2010.

CENTENO – to Enrique and Norma Centeno of Mount Salem, Ont., a son, Erik Jiovanny, on Apr. 13, 2010.

REIMER – to Andrew and Amie Reimer of Winnipeg, Man., a daughter, Miriam Drew, on Oct. 15, 2009.

FROESE – to Jonny and Emerald Froese of Aylmer, Ont., a daughter, Avery Nicole, on Jan. 27, 2010.

SCHELLENBERG – to Scott and Kristel Schellenberg of Anola, Man., a son, Eric Riley, on Mar. 29, 2010.

HEIDE – to Jason and Paige Heide of Steinbach, Man., a son, Logan Ross, on Jan. 10, 2010. KOOP – to Duane and Janette Koop of Mitchell, Man., an adopted son, Hunter Braedin, born on July 27, 2009. KOOP – to Dwayne and Pam Koop of Anola, Man., a daughter, Kailee Moriah, on Mar. 29, 2009.

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

THIESSEN – to Eddie and Linda Thiessen of Aylmer, Ont., a son, James Edward, on Mar. 28, 2010. WATSON – to Patrick and Lauri-Anne Watson of Steinbach, Man., a son, Sterling Ross, on Jan. 8, 2010. WIEBE – to Greg and Dana Wiebe of Winnipeg, Man., a son, Hugo, on Nov. 17, 2009.

Portage EMC 50th anniversary and building dedication August 28 and 29, 2010 Registration: August 28, 1-3 p.m. More information to follow on our church website. Please respond by July 31: 204-857-4146, www.portagepec.ca, or www.facebook.com (search PEC 50th anniversary)

Beaver Creek 40th anniversary You are invited to the 40th anniversary celebration of Beaver Creek Bible Camp, June 26-27, 2010, at the BCBC grounds. Come Saturday evening at 6:30 p.m. for games, food, a live band, camp friends, and (of course) fireworks! Join us Sunday morning for a church service outside at 10:30 a.m. Stay for a potluck lunch (please bring a dessert or a salad). Burgers and drinks will be provided. RSVP by June 10, 2010: bcbcregistrar@lakenet.ca or call 204-378-5238.

in memory

Mary (nee Thiessen) Janzen 1918–2010

Mary Janzen was born in Hague, Sask., on February 1, 1918, the eldest daughter of Peter and Maria Thiessen. As a young girl, she and her family moved to the Aberdeen, Sask., area. There she attended school, which she enjoyed very much. She was heartbroken when her father announced that the family would be moving again and that she would no longer be able to attend school. In 1937 her family moved to the Swan Plain, Sask., area. It was during those years that Mary made the decision to accept the Lord Jesus Christ as her personal Saviour. This most important decision has affected every area of her life. Her one aim was to follow Jesus and to grow in obedience to Him. On October 10, 1954, she married Henry Janzen, son of Heinrich and Sara Janzen. This union was blessed by two children: Karen Margaret and Jackie Wayne. They lived and raised their family on the homestead. In 1987 they moved to a seniors’ residence, Evergreen Place, in Norquay, Sask. Mary took care of her father-in law, who was confined to a wheelchair. This was an amazing labour of love. Mary was a wonderful mother who instilled within her children the values of faith and honesty. She never ceased to show them unconditional love. When her grandchildren and great-grandchildren came along, she loved them with that same love. Even on her last day she spoke of them with love and pride. After her husband died in 1991, her faith became more evident as she daily depended on the Lord for wisdom and strength to take on new responsibilities.

calendar The Lord provided her with special friends and a wonderful church family. She cared deeply for people. She enjoyed Bible studies, going to the local seniors’ centre for games and coffee time, and going to the local restaurant when she had the opportunity. On March 26, 2010, the Lord took her home. She was 92 years. Mary leaves to mourn her passing her daughter Karen (Marvin) Tieszen, son Jack; grandsons Kevin and Jonathan (Crystal) Tieszen, and her children Amaya, Kiara, and Jucika; her brother Willie and sisters Anne (Janzen) and Helen (Linde); and many friends. She was predeceased by her parents; husband; brothers Peter, Isaac, Jacob, John, Henry, Abe and David; sisters Katherine (Harder), Susie, Sarah (Braun), and Margaret (Braun). Funeral services were held April 1, 2010, from Norquay Covenant Church with pastors John Froese and Kenton Penner officiating. Mary was a long-time member of Pelly Fellowship Chapel. Her Family

weddings KEHLER – GOERTZEN: Sam Kehler and Jennifer, daughter of Gerry and Sandra Goertzen of Steinbach, Man., were married on July 19, 2009, in Steinbach. The couple lives in Winnipeg. MARTENS – PEDDIE: Derek Martens and Melissa Peddie were married on Mar. 13, 2010, at Fort Garry EMC in Winnipeg, Man. The couple lives in Winnipeg. REGULA – WIEBE: Coleman, son of Dennis and Donna Regula of Anola, Man., and Heidi, daughter of Don and Ev Wiebe of Anola, were married on Oct. 3, 2009, at The Forks Amphitheatre, with Pastors Dan Cosens and Jack Cosens officiating. WALL – KURTENBACH: Peter, son of Peter and Katherina Wall of Ontario, and Kelly, daughter of Gary and Susan Kurtenbach of North Dakota, were married on Jan. 30, 2010, in Steinbach, Man. The couple lives in Steinbach. WATT – FUNK: David Watt, son of Harold Watt and Sharon Steeves of Grunthal, Man., and Nicole, daughter of Clarence and Hilda Funk of Grunthal, were married on Sept. 19, 2009, in Steinbach, with Garry Koop of Steinbach officiating. The couple lives in Grunthal.

British Columbia no events currently

Alberta no events currently

Saskatchewan no events currently

Manitoba June 17: EMC Project Builders Golf Classic at Steinbach Fly-In Golf Course, Steinbach; 204-2558062 or 204-355-4854 June 24: Eden Foundation IronMan Golf Tournament at Winkler Centennial Golf Course, Winkler June 28–July 2: Thriving in a Firestorm: Congregational Peacebuilding at Canadian Mennonite University, Winnipeg; instructor: Dr. Lois Edmund www.cmu.ca/csop July 15: MCC Manitoba golf tournament to support literacy and education in Afghanistan, Quarry Oaks Golf Course manitoba.mcc.org/golf

Ontario July 2: EMC Ministerial Meeting, Leamington EMC, Leamington; 204-326-6401 or www.emconf.ca July 2–4: The Triumph of the Lamb, EMC Annual Convention at United Mennonite Educational Institute, Leamington; 204-3266401 or www.emconf.ca July 3: EMC Conference Council Meeting, Leamington EMC, Leamington; 204-326-6401 or www.emconf.ca

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

shoulder tapping Pastoral positions Fort Garry Evangelical Mennonite Church (fortgarryemc.ca) is searching for a university/ young adult pastor whom God has chosen to help us reach University of Manitoba students and young adults with the gospel of Jesus Christ. We are a congregation of 250 located a block from the U. of M. Fort Garry campus. Supported by a committed discernment group, this person will get to know the Fort Garry campus and establish relationships with present campus ministries. By creating relationships with individuals, the pastor will support the development of their faith by connecting them to people at FGEMC. A second phase may include program development. Applicants must be able to embrace and sign the FGEMC Statement of Faith. Qualifications include a love for people, enthusiasm and determination, creativity and an ability to work independently. A graduate degree and ministry experience on campus are assets. Anticipated start date is August 1, 2010. Inquiries and resumes may be sent to Mark Plett, Search Committee chair, Fort Garry EMC, 602 Pasadena Ave, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2S9 or e-mailed msplett5@shaw.ca. Braeside Evangelical Mennonite Church in Winnipeg, Man., is looking for an associate pastor. Responsibilities will include youth ministry as well as worship ministry (including worship technology). Ideally this position would be filled by one person, but we are open to other arrangements. Please send resumes to: braeside@ braesidechurch.ca, Attention: Search Committee, www.braesidechurch.ca. MacGregor EMC, a small community church of 120 people located in MacGregor, Man., is prayerfully seeking a full-time lead pastor. Previous pastoral experience and leadership abilities are assets. For job description and information go to www.macgregoremc.com and follow the link or contact Sheldon Giesbrecht at 204-685-2685. Have you seen our lead pastor? He’s too busy to read this ad, so we need your help in locating him. He may be wearing jeans and a casual shirt, loves Jesus and all people. He relates well to young and old, traditional and contemporary, educated and not so much. He recognizes the shifts in society and adjusts his approach to demonstrate Jesus’ relevance. He loves our diverse church of 500+ regular attendees (half aren’t even age 30 yet) and his team of four full-time staff. He gets excited at the prospect of planting creative new congregations to reach the needs in our community. He is an Anabaptist at heart, and we love him. If you’ve seen him, connect him with us, Aylmer EMMC, in southern Ontario through serve@aemmc.ca. We’ll keep looking until we find him, but if you can hook us up by the end of May 2010, we’ll be especially thankful.

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

Morrow Gospel Church in Winnipeg, Man., seeks a full-time associate pastor to work with the senior pastor as a pastoral team. MGC is a multigenerational EMMC congregation with an average Sunday morning attendance of about 150. We seek a self-motivated pastor gifted with good communication and motivational skills, a passion for outreach and evangelism, for building practical and meaningful relationships, and for investing time and energy training and mentoring young people and young families to grow in their faith and spiritual lives. The pastor should have preaching and teaching skills and be willing to work as a member of a team and with a board of elders. The pastor must be a born-again Christian and agree with the MGC statement of faith. Experience working in outreach/evangelism and experience as a pastor to young people and young families is desired. Relevant postsecondary education is required (a Bible college degree is preferred). For information or to submit a resume and cover letter, please contact Morrow Gospel Church, Pastoral Search Committee, 755 St. Anne’s Road, Winnipeg, MB R2N 4G6; e-mail: mgcemm@mts.net with subject: pastoral search committee.

Youth work Pelly Fellowship Chapel (EMC) seeks a youth worker or couple to develop a program for youth and junior youth. PFC is a small church in the village of Pelly, located in central Sask., close to the Manitoba border. Submit resume to Pastor John Froese, Box 70, Pelly, SK S0A 2Z0. Phone 306-595-2074. E-mail pastor@pellyfellowship.com.

Other opportunities Eden Mental Health Centre, Winkler, Man., seeks a full-time director of spiritual care to work as part of the treatment team within the broader Eden organization. The DSC provides leadership within the in-patient unit in addressing the spiritual and religious care needs of patients and is a resource to caregivers within the community. Qualifications: university level degree in theology or equivalent; completion of CPE training desirable; certification as a teaching supervisor with CAPPE an asset; experienced in provision of spiritual care within the health care system; understanding of mental health issues; strong oral and written communication skills; team leader/player; ordained/endorsed for ministry and in good standing by own faith group. Closing Date: May 30, 2010 or until filled. Contact Personnel, Eden Mental Health Centre, 1500 Pembina Ave, Winkler, MB R6W 1T4; 204-325-4325; 204-325-8429 (fax); lzacharias@ edenhealth.mb.ca. Vision Valley School in Antananarivo, Madagascar, needs qualified Christian teachers

for 2010/2011 academic year. It especially seeks for native English speakers for primary grades 3, 4, 5, 6; within grades 7-12, teachers are needed in art, music, and two in English (with native speakers a high priority). See blog: xanga.com/jocsh; 21 February. Faith Christian School, grades K-12, in beautiful northeast Texas is seeking teachers dedicated to Christian education in a German Mennonite setting. For more info contact: Neal Thiessen (w) 903-783-9814, (h) 903-737-9663, (cell) 432-5284361, pastormec@sbcglobal.net; or Ted Friesen 903-739-8607, tfriesen@wb4me.com. MFC seeks a full-time consultant to work in its St. Catharines, Ont., office. The successful candidate will be responsible to promote biblical stewardship of financial resources and to provide charitable gift and estate planning services. The successful candidate will support and incorporate MFC’s core values of stewardship in personal life; communicate effectively with individuals and in public presentations; have knowledge of, or ability to learn, charitable gift and estate planning; be creative, organized, and self-motivated in balancing multiple projects; be willing and able to contribute as part of an inter-dependent staff team. A start date for the position is negotiable. Processing of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Submit resumes to: Darren Pries-Klassen, executive director, 22-595 Carlton Street, St. Catharines, ON L2M 4Y2; fax: 204-488-1986; dpklassen@mennofoundation.ca; Mennofoundation.ca. Experience life on The Great Silk Road with EMC families. The EMC team there needs a short-term teacher or educational assistant for their nine children. Starting January 2011 or September 2011. Interested person does not need a formal degree, but must be able to connect well with children. Some support would need to be raised. If interested contact Tim Dyck at 204-326-6401 or tdyck@emconf.ca. Interested in serving long-term among the unreached? Join the new EMC team on the silk road! The team is led by an experienced EMC couple. We desire to bring God’s peace to a people group that has no thriving church and little hope for the future. Contact Tim Dyck at 204-326-6401 or tdyck@emconf.ca.

The Messenger does not sell advertising, but provides free space (classified and display) to enhance our Conference, its churches, boards and ministries; inter-Mennonite agencies and educational institutions; and the wider church. Ads are not to be for monetary benefit. To place an ad, e-mail messenger@emconf.ca or call 204-326-6401 and ask for Rebecca Roman.

generations by Gerald Reimer, Conference Youth Minister greimer@emconf.ca

Kids need true heroes

ome weeks ago I skimmed a story in The Winnipeg Free Press that talked about heroes. The journalist had asked a class of fifth-grade students (10- to 11-yearolds) in a Winnipeg school to name their heroes. The children did not have overly unique or vulgar heroes. They mentioned actors, musicians, sports figures, and the like. Nothing unusual.

Is there a problem with this? While I too had sports heroes when I was growing up on a farm in the 70s, the influence of society and pop culture did not affect me much until my pre-teen and teenage years. Today that influence often begins for children as young as five or six years old. This is no coincidence; secular media intentionally targets children and pre-teens out of materialism and greed. By the time kids reach the teen years, they are already enslaved by the media’s influence and are ready to spend huge portions of their money on stuff. Instead of decrying children’s poor choices of heroes, teach and model discernment to the pre-teens and teens in your home. Within a biblical worldview, winning a gold medal does not make a hero. So how does a Godfearing family ultimately decide what type of hero is appropriate for their son or daughter? Take a look at Scripture. Whom does Jesus esteem in contrast to society around him? When Jesus responds to the disciples at the Last Supper in Luke 22:25-27, he

PHOTO: designpics.com

Instead of decrying children’s poor choices of heroes, teach and model discernment.

tells them that the greatest among them should be like the youngest, and the one who rules should be like the one who serves. He himself, he adds, came among them as one who serves. What does it mean to be like the youngest in our midst, the children? It means that we see everyone as equal. When my family spent five months in Mexico two years ago, my wife and I were amazed at our small children’s ability to be completely accepting and non-judgemental. They saw everyone around them through unbiased and non-racial eyes. In God’s economy, there should be no hierarchy; no striving to be like those on the top rung of the ladder. The one we should look up to and emulate is Christ. As Donald Kraybill writes in his book The Upside-Down Kingdom (Herald Press, 1978, 1993), in God’s inverted kingdom, greatness is signified by our willingness to serve. Service to others, Kraybill says, becomes the yardstick of stature in the new kingdom. Perhaps your children know of people who are modeling this type of a humble servant heart. Hopefully, they actually see this modeled for them in their own home. I dare say that this next generation will be much more effective as ambassadors for Christ if they follow the examples of men and women who sacrificially serve, as opposed to many pop culture examples of people who seek to lift themselves up for temporary fame and fortune. Take some time this week to talk to your kids about true heroes.

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

pictures of God by Joanna Plett

Crossing over

PHOTO: Joanna plett

walked to America the other day. When we assume that borders— Now before you start compliwhether national, social, or theologmenting me on my impressive ical-have always existed and always exercise regimen, I should clarify will exist, we lose sight of the human that it was only the distance across element to them. We negate rethe Rainbow Bridge at Niagara Falls. sponsibility by forgetting that these It was simple. I put fifty cents in borders were created by people and the turnstile and entered no man’s are maintained by people, sometimes land. Five minutes later an official on ourselves. the other side of the bridge directed Often we use borders to justify me to the door into the United pride. Technology and education can States. The whole experience really convince us that we are inherently revealed the absurdity of borders. and culturally superior to those in Someone somewhere decided less developed regions. We forget that this particular river would that Africans were not always poorer divide Canada from the United than Britons, that Natives did not States and would cement the distinct always live on reserves, that not all difference between those living Middle Easterners are Muslim, and metres from each other on opposite not all Muslims are terrorists. sides of the border. Similarly, longstanding theoAll too often, we as Christians logical differences, marked off by adopt without question the brightly denominational borders, can concoloured maps of our society. vince us of our spiritual superiority Canada-U.S., Rich-Poor, East-West, and justify pride and judgemental Christian-Muslim, Protestantattitudes towards other Christians. Catholic, Liberal-Conservative. Instead of building bridges between While some of these borders might denominations, we create borders to be helpful as organizational tools, define our greater spirituality. we often use them to validate our Breaking down borders is lifestyle, our opinions, our attitudes, dangerous. First, it requires change. or our choices. Jesus came to earth to draw Kingdom maps by erasing borders between Jew and Gentile, slave and free, man and woman, God and humanity. He called his followers to do the same. Borders create comfortable spaces for us. We use them to defend ourselves, to define ourselves, and to protect ourselves from awkward conversations and Rainbow Bridge, Niagara Falls glaring injustices. 34

THE MESSENGER | May 2010

It is easier to embrace pre-existing borders, especially if they were created generations ago, than to challenge their validity and question the foundations that made them borders in the first place.

While some borders might be helpful as organizational tools, we often use them to validate our lifestyle, our opinions, our attitudes, or our choices. Second, it requires humility. In approaching longstanding divisions, we have to be willing to learn about the events and attitudes from both sides that created these borders and that maintain them. We have to approach as learners, willing to hear about the experiences and perspectives of the other side. Third, it requires sacrifice. Whether it is the financial advantage of living in the West or the legitimization of pride, borders grant some advantage to those who created them. When we move forward to break down borders, we have to be willing to sacrifice the advantages and justifications we derived from them. Although we are called to stand for radical truth, Jesus challenged us to break down the social divisions that keep us from sharing that radical truth with those on the “other” side.

stewardship today by Mike Strathdee

Retirement: how do you feel about it?

Part of that pessimism may relate to everincreasing expectations of what a “comfortable retirement” means.

what a “comfortable retirement” means. Most North Americans now view as necessities many things that previous generations would have called luxuries, or in many cases, not even have dreamed of. The financial industry contributes to the retirement fears/gloom by insisting that people need to save $1 million or more to avoid being in dire straits in the autumn and winter of life. Hearing what seems an impossible goal induces paralysis and denial for some. It is also true that many of us aren’t making retirement savings a priority. Some may be better off paying down debt or contributing to the new Tax Free Savings Account (especially people earning $36,000 a year or less). Only a third of Canadians put money into an RRSP this year, and 30 per cent haven’t yet started saving for retirement. This suggests many people don’t have the cash to save for retirement or are spending it on other things. The picture is not all bleak.

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re you somewhat jealous of teacher friends, who, in their early 50s, are already counting the days, only a few years away, when they can say goodbye to their day job while enjoying a full pension? Do you wonder how your circumstances will ever make retiring possible? It is pretty difficult to find any biblical support for the modern notion of retirement—turning our back on work at a certain age. God made us to be productive. But society has taught us all to look forward to retirement, if not how to plan for it properly. Concerns about retirement are increasingly common in media and government discussions as the largest generation of Canadians ever approaches and enters the “retirement years.” Fear about not having enough is a dominant theme. One recent poll of Canadians aged 50 or more found that about half of them weren’t sure that pensions, government and otherwise, would provide them with a comfortable retirement. Close to two-thirds of people polled in another recent study said they think the Canada Pension Plan will have to reduce payments in future. (This is unlikely given the way that the federal government has increased premium payments in recent years to ensure CPP has more than enough money to meet obligations for decades to come. Full CPP and Old Age Security benefits are designed to replace 25 per cent of working income.) Part of that pessimism may relate to ever-increasing expectations of

Actuary Malcolm Hamilton says even people who start saving for retirement at age 50 with their debts paid off, and make large contributions every year until they retire, will be okay. He thinks many Canadians can live comfortably on a much lower retirement nest egg than what other expert voices claim. Saving $300,000 in an RRSP and receiving full CPP and OAS benefits, a retired Canadian would have an annual income of about $30,000 after tax. What’s the church’s role in all of this? Will leaders help people to live within their means, save for later years and to maintain Godhonouring expectations? Help us, O Lord, to number our days and to count the cost of getting there. Mike Strathdee is a stewardship consultant at the Kitchener, Ontario, office of Mennonite Foundation of Canada (MFC). For stewardship education and estate and charitable gift planning, contact your nearest MFC office or visit Mennofoundation.ca. THE MESSENGER | May 2010

kids’ corner by Loreena Thiessen

Need: • wire coat hanger • magnifying glass • notebook • pencil

To see is to do

PHOTO: designpics.com

ow well do you see? Can you see all the letters on the eye chart? Perhaps you wear glasses to help you see better. To be able to see is a very important ability. Seeing helps you in many ways. Stop and think of some things you know because you can see. First are the changes that appear as spring arrives. Bushes and trees begin to shimmer in a green haze as tiny leaf buds form on their branches. Soon velvety leaves grow and fill out. Thick red bulbous tips push through the earth in the garden, then a red stalk with a wrinkly green leaf on its top; these are rhubarb plants. You recognize the tall leaves of tulips poking up out of the soil and their cup shaped flowers in bright red and yellow. You recognize them because you can see them. Seeing also helps you recognize

possible danger. Black clouds and lightning flashes let you know a storm is coming. You hurry indoors where it’s safer and you’re out of danger. You watch for the red traffic light to change to green and you watch to make sure the cars are stopped before you cross the street. What is something new you have learned? Perhaps you learned how to bake a cake or bread, or cook a new food, or build a birdhouse, something you haven’t done before. Did you first watch to see how it’s done? What about when you first played soccer or hockey or tried to ride a bike? Did someone show you the steps to take? Often we learn or decide to try something because we have first seen someone else do it. We want to do what they are doing; we want to be like them. Jesus wanted his disciples to learn to do what he did. He said to them, “Follow me!” And they did. They followed him and observed. What did they see? The disciples saw Jesus love and accept those who were not loved

The disciples saw Jesus love and accept those who were not loved or seemed less important, like little children and people like Zacchaeus. 36

Activity: Lawn Safari

Do: • go down on your knees or stomach • look closely inside the frame of the wire hanger • use your magnifying glass, search the grass inch by inch • find earthworms, beetles, ants, grubs, spiders, moths, or anything else • draw or name in a list what you find • take the wire frame to another patch of grass • compare what you find, choose shady and sunny grass, thick or thin grass • what are the differences?

or seemed less important, like little children and people like Zacchaeus. He made sure the people who came to hear him had enough food to eat. He healed sick people. He taught them how to pray with the example of the Lord’s Prayer. Jesus purposely chose the disciples to follow him to teach them what he wanted them to know and do. His example showed them who God is. “He who has seen me has seen my Father,” he says in John 14:9. Make sure you choose to follow someone who is also following Jesus. Read about Jesus’ example of the children and Zacchaeus in Matthew 16:32-36 and Matthew 19:13-15.

THE MESSENGER Evangelical Mennonite Conference 440 Main Street Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5

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May 2010

The Messenger Vol. 48, No. 6 May 2010

Articles inside

Kids’ corner

Generations

Stewardship today

Pictures of God

Shoulder tapping

Calendar

The historical trail of the EMC membership idea

Window on missions

Writings shared

Letters

Births

Editorials

Archives alcove

Examining covenant community biblically