THE
MESSENGER
volume 49, number 7 July 2011
www.emconference.ca/messenger
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PHOTOS: HANNAH WIEBE
NOT us... $2.00
a publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference
p. 8
editorials
A treat and a challenge
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id you glance at page 16 of the EMC Annual Report 2011 in May issue? If you did, you were in for a treat and a challenge. The treat? Our conference has 104 cross-cultural workers in about 26 countries; they serve with about 20 other agencies besides EMC. Talk about priorities, effort, teamwork, global concern, and being part of the wider Church! Dr. Jon Bonk, an EMC minister and a former missions professor at Providence Theological Seminary, used to say that the EMC has a high cross-cultural worker/member ratio. This likely still holds true. Remember that these figures represent only those workers
Truth in life
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ews here often revolves around faith in action—in a word, service. EMCers serve! We serve in congregations and communities; with MDS, MCC, in cross-cultural ministry and more; in Canada and elsewhere. Early Anabaptist history can teach us much about service. In fact, it is sometimes said that Anabaptism focuses more on what we do than on what we believe. Clearly early Anabaptists opposed claims of belief disconnected from lifestyle. They thought it hollow to celebrate Christ’s grace while rejecting discipleship. They served!
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processed as fully supported or associate workers with the EMC. We have more EMCers serving or supporting cross-cultural workers in other venues.
In the EMC, we have at least a 65-year history of reaching out aggressively in crosscultural ministry. Early Anabaptists were often serious evangelists both near and far. In the EMC, we have at least a 65-year history of reaching out aggressively in cross-cultural ministry. We are told, “Go into all the world and preach the good news to
all creation” (Mark 16:15). Menno Simons said, “I seek and desire nothing else…but that the glorious name, the divine will, and the glory of our beloved Lord Jesus Christ may be acknowledged throughout the world” (Complete Writings, 311). The Church is, indeed, to be gathered and scattered, as Good News Community Church (Steinbach) emphasizes. If you ask what holds together the EMC, the answer is Jesus. If we ask what scatters EMCers near and far, the answer is the same. The challenge? Look at the workers needed in the near future. Terry M. Smith
We need to be cautious not to misuse Anabaptist history and teaching by downplaying correct beliefs. To do so is misleading, even dangerous. However, we need to be cautious not to misuse Anabaptist history and teaching by downplaying correct beliefs. To do so is misleading, even dangerous. Menno Simons’ Complete Writings are packed with a concern for proper doctrines. He said the first of “true signs by which the Church of Christ may be known” is “an unadulterated, pure doctrine.” His theme verse focused on how Christ is our only proper foundation in life (1 Corinthians 3:11). Because of what he believed about Jesus, Menno served as he did.
We are to join together teaching and lifestyle. Evangelical Anabaptists do “in the name of Christ” (to use MCC’s slogan, borrowed from Scripture) because of what we believe about Christ. Luke wrote “about all that Jesus began to do and to teach” (Acts 1:1). Truth in life is appropriate because Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6). Let us serve the Lord! Terry M. Smith
contents Features 5
Departments 2 Editorials
Cartoon Feature
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– Matthew Reimer
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Not 2 us: Less of us and more of God – Hannah Wiebe
12 Not 2 us: Thoughts from the Conference Youth Minister – Gerald Reimer
13 This is why we are part of a Christian community! – Cheryl Braun
15 Worship songs are conversation—choose your words carefully! – Dr. Christine Longhurst
34 Poem: I AM’s Child – Anicka Loewen
Columns 4
A Reader’s Viewpoint
How would you answer? – Don Hutchinson
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Archives Alcove
With Our Missionaries 18 Caronport, Sask.: Dueck brothers share Briercrest award 19 Nicaragua: Water, houses, and outings 20 Wisconsin: 68 students graduate from NTBI 20 South Africa/Canada: Learning the value of saying farewell 22 Mexico: Ministry flows out of a life with God
With Our Churches 23 Riverton Gospel Chapel: Message in a blanket 24 Pelly Fellowship Chapel: Pelly holds lay renewal weekend 25 Evangelical Fellowship Church (Steinbach): A Sunday morning prayer
Ministerial minutes and change – Terry M. Smith
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Writings Shared Worship & Mission After Christendom
Pontius’ Puddle
5 Letters 24 Births 24 Weddings 31 In Memory 32 Calendar 33 Shoulder Tapping
News 7
EMCers graduate
26 Eden holds grand opening 26 MDS ready to respond to Manitoba flood recovery 27 MCC program reaches out to moms 27 Stiller named as WEA global ambassador 28 Stitching healthier communities in Cambodia 28 MDS takes cost-cutting measures 28 Statement of Reconciliation (SBC) 29 MWC delegation visits Japan 30 MCC helping ‘the poorest of the poor’ in Pakistan
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30 Dueck honoured at Providence and Briercrest
35 Stewardship Today
Joyful generosity – Darren Pries-Klassen
36 Kids’ Corner
How is your memory? – Loreena Thiessen
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THE
MESSENGER
a reader’s viewpoint
How would you answer? 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. Advertising and inserts should not be considered to carry editorial endorsement. THE MESSENGER is published by the EMC Board of Church Ministries, 440 Main St, Steinbach, Man. Subscription rates: 1 year $24 ($30 U.S., $45 foreign) 2 years $44 ($55 U.S., $85 foreign) 3 years $65 ($82 U.S., $125 foreign) Manitoba residents add 7% PST. Digital only subscriptions: $15 per year. Single copy price: $2 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 Publications Mail Agreement #40017362 Registration #09914 We gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada, through the Canada Periodical Fund, for our publishing activities.
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 www.emconference.ca/messenger
The Messenger Schedule: No. 7 – August 2011 issue (copy due July 15)
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THE MESSENGER | July 2011
by Don Hutchinson
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he National Post (June 7, 2011) reports that a Chinese migrant seeking refugee status in Canada, because he faced persecution in China for his Christian beliefs, was denied his claim because he could not describe what Jesus was “like as a person.” Wu Xin Wang said “Jesus is the Son of God”—correct verb tense for a Christian “is”—and that “Jesus was conceived through the Holy Ghost and was born in this
How would an average committed Canadian Christian answer these questions: “So, tell me about Jesus as a person. What was he like?” “I am not asking who he was or what he did. I am asking what is he like as a person?” “Anybody could memorize a creed and recite the creed. I want to know what you believe and what you know of Jesus as a person.” “Tell me what Jesus is like as a person and this is
In many churches “what Jesus was like as a person” might have been answered with a Bible story, a statement of personal belief, or a Sunday School image. world” and noted Jesus is “In my heart, He is my Saviour.” However, he did not satisfactorily answer, “So tell me about Jesus as a person, what was he like?” Despite describing underground church participation and a home visit from China’s Public Security Bureau investigating illegal Christian activities, the claimant was found not to be credible.
PHOTO: DESINGPICS.COM
EDITOR Terry M. Smith tsmith@emconf.ca
the last time I am going to ask you.” I’m not sure I would have done much better than Wu Xin Wang. What about you?
If you lived where Christians are rounded up, imprisoned, even tortured, for their associations, what would you admit publicly? Janet Dench, of the Canadian Council for Refugees, suggests instead these questions: Where do you worship? What happens there? How often do you go? In many churches “what Jesus was like as a person” might have been answered with a Bible story, a statement of personal belief, or a Sunday School image— long blonde hair and blue eyes in some, dark hair and brown eyes in others. None of these might have met the test. With religious persecution happening in over half of the world’s nations to hundreds of millions of people, it seems past the time when Canada’s immigration review officers should be sensitive to how to handle such claims.
Don Hutchinson is vice-president, general legal counsel for the EFC and director of the EFC’s Centre for Faith and Public Life. This article was shortened, with permission, from his June 8, 2011, blog at activatecfpl.the efc.ca. The EMC is an affiliate of the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada (EFC). (The full link is http://activatecfpl.theefc. ca/journal/2011/6/8/did-jesus-really-have-blonde-hairand-blue-eyes.html.)
letters A Christ-uplifting experience! My wife and I were fortunate enough take in the Great Hallelujah concert, led by Danny Plett here in Steinbach on April 30, sponsored by our EM Conference. What a wonderful, God-honouring and Christ-uplifting experience it was. Danny’s singing, his band brought in from Europe, and the mass choir were splendid. The concert drew together the Christian community and was a powerful witness to a world often jaded by what they hear and see in the media every day. This positive message was aided in no small part by the free-will offering collected in support of local charities. I doubt I have ever been more proud to be EMC than I was that night. Can we see more in the future? Earl Unger Steinbach, Man.
Portrayal of Jesus inaccurate Jesus’ action of driving out the moneychangers in the temple was one of controlled wrath. He did not “flip out” nor “lose it.” These idioms suggest that The Son of God suddenly lost his temper and burst out in uncontrollable anger. In fact, his actions were those of amazing mercy and love. He was being merciful to those weary travelers, who would suddenly face unexpected costs to worship their God. They were perhaps living from “hand to mouth” and didn’t know where their next meal was coming from. His actions were those of justice for the oppressed. For He lifts up the lowly.
He was also being merciful to those who were part of the temple “system.” He could have immediately shattered the corruption and pulverized the building with His awesome power. Instead, He gave them more time. Instead of taking charge of the whole system, He declared war on evil. He looked his opponents straight in the eye and spoke: “The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief corner stone. Whoever falls on that stone will be broken; but on whomever it falls, it will grind him to powder” (Luke 20: 17–18). They “got it” and tried to kill Him. His anger is amazing in its humility. His eyes were fixed on His greatest battle at the cross. He knew
that His victory would be completed there. I agree with Mr. Plett’s main thesis that we as believers need to be moved by the impulse of the Holy Spirit rather than by our own programs and systems. Rather than becoming more relationship oriented, perhaps we need to first become quiet enough to listen to God’s voice and hear His direction. I was shocked and dismayed to see the way that Jesus’ character was portrayed on the front cover of the magazine. To me, it is irreverent and inaccurate, to say the least. Thank you for letting me have my say. Rosalind Petzold La Crete, Alta.
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archives alcove by Terry Smith
Ministerial minutes and change
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PHOTO: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
t began when Roseisle EMC sought the date of its chartering service. At my request, Erica Fehr looked through the KG/EMC ministerial minutes (1945-1968) and became intrigued by discussions and decisions. Ward Parkinson, former pastor of Morris Fellowship Chapel, read of the ministerial’s 1964 opposition to EMCers participating in the Morris Stampede. Here are some other reports and decisions I found from 1964 to 1966 (spelling and grammar retained). In 1964 there was concern over MCC’s proposed invitation to Baptists In 1965 from Russia to the mode of In 1965 the mode of baptism baptism was an “visit and report to American issue in a local churches.” Though was an issue in a local church. church. When the Baptist church a minister contained many asked “if a people of “former Mennonite faith,” local church or minister has some some brethren feared they “might leeway…,” the ministerial felt “if be communistically inclined” and any certain person would receive opposed the visit because of the baptism by another mode would “danger of infiltrating foreign cause problems elsewhere almost ideas.” immediately.” That year, the ministerial In 1965 “a United campaign in decided “we should let our voice Neepawa was led by a Pastor, who be heard now through petitions” comes from India, seems to be too against liquor advertising in much on fire for the Lord to be Manitoba. comfortable to his congregation, but Further in 1964, the ministerial the services proved to be a blessing upheld its objection to “the use in to those who really seek the Lord.” our homes of TV” because TV was In 1965 a minister reported a more harmful than helpful. In 1966 local “Brotherhood” had dismissed it decided those who own a TV set “a brother” who married an “MB “should be seriously counselled.” girl” at an evangelical church. 6
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In 1966 the question was raised “why we do not get many new members from other nationalities….” One minister suggested “the real barrier was that they do not want to accept Christ, not that the name Mennonite was so much the barrier.” It was also said “the peculiar but scriptural doctrine of non-resistance of the Mennonites often acts as a barrier since many, even evangelicals, do not hold such a doctrine.” It was also felt “the low German language sometimes acts as a barrier.” “Many spoke to this issue.” How does one respond to this? With affection for people, while striving for fairness and charity. Each generation is judged by their master, and the Lord is able to make them stand (Romans 14:4). The ministerial laboured to assist EMCers with “quiet lives in all godliness and holiness” (1 Timothy 2:2). It showed concern for the wellbeing of churches and individual members. This is respected. Certainly, changes in technology, addictive substances, and societal values continue to pose major challenges. Still, the degree of social isolation, caution, and awkwardness toward other Christians remain notable. While fitting in some areas, change is not automatically positive. How concerned are we today about holiness or our conference’s direction?
writings shared
Worship & Mission After Christendom, Alan Kreider and Eleanor Kreider (Herald Press, 2011), 328 pp. $19.99. ISBN 9780836195545. Reviewed by Zac Klassen, pastor, The ConneXion (Arborg, Man.).
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or most of Western Christianity, the Church has seen relatively little outside resistance, often uncritically embracing cultures of power, credibility, and wealth within society. In this context a critical task of the Church, namely mission, cannot help but skirt the danger of becoming largely a process of convincing “outsiders” to adopt a static set of “holy” ideas. “Mission,” as a theological term meant to tell us about God’s activity throughout the world, becomes reduced to describing what happens on a term basis, usually in a foreign country, rather than a daily event “dwelling among us” (John 1:14).
If mission takes on this reduced form, “worship” risks losing its critical edge as a springboard for community action, becoming a static retelling of a story that often lacks a local and concrete reference point for the worshipping community. The Kreiders’ alternative vision for the Church’s future is important: we need creative worship services that faithfully blend tradition with the “new thing” (Isaiah 43:19) God is doing in our communities. We need weekly practices that put us in a “stance” to discern God’s mission among us. Finally, we need the courage to join God’s
Beyond being a great resource on Christian worship, this book helpfully explores how to avoid making worship and mission two distinct, independent activities. work, not just overseas, but in our neighbourhoods. Beyond being a great resource on Christian worship, this book helpfully explores how to avoid making worship and mission two distinct, independent activities under a hierarchical organization. The Kreiders show that worship and mission represent one cyclical movement within the body of Christ. May the worship of the EMC form our mission and our mission form our worship (257)!
news
EMCers graduate Canadian Mennonite University 2011
2010 David Kruse (MacGregor EMC), Master of Arts, theological studies Tony Friesen (Treesbank), Bachelor of Arts, peace and conflict transformation
Trinity Evangelical Divinity School 2010 Ernest (Ernie) Koop (EFC Steinbach), Doctor of Ministry, missions and evangelism
Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary 2011 Alicia Buhler (Pineridge), Master of Divinity, pastoral care and counseling
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2
NOT
us...
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Less of us and by Hannah Wiebe
magine what would happen if everyone who attended Abundant Spring 2011 resolved to live out the event’s theme,
“Not 2 Us”! The EMC would see 686 of its youth and young adults representing 34 churches from eight national regions begin to passionately seek God, giving him a place of honour and leadership in their lives. What a difference that would make in their families, schools, churches and country. According to Abundant Springs’ main speaker Rob Hildebrand, this transformative discipleship was exactly the goal of the event—“I would love for students that attend this retreat to go away with a full commitment to the kingdom of God and a desire to use their gifts and abilities to serve the kingdom of God, and to do that courageously.”
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THE MESSAGE Hildebrand, chair of Multnomah University’s youth ministry department and a former youth pastor within the EMC, spoke daily to attendees during the evening sessions on the theme Not 2 Us. We were encouraged to submit every area of life to God, that the glory might go to Him and Not 2 Us. He began by sharing the story of Esther on Friday night, using her life’s example to challenge us that although living a God-centred life can be uncomfortable, it brings meaning and purpose to life far beyond what we can offer ourselves. Speaker Rob Hildebrand The focus of Saturday’s session was on sexual and relational purity, and how submitting these human desires to Christ yields personal blessing and brings glory to Him.
d more of God
“Are you willing to live Not 2 Us?”
PHOTOS: HANNAH WIEBE
– Rob Hildebrand
Sunday’s message was centred on forgiveness. Using a powerful personal example, he shared how pardoning others of their offenses is a must if Christians are to live rightly—in the shadow of our Redeemer. To close off the weekend, Hildebrand spoke from 2 Corinthians 6:4-11. Using the Apostle Paul’s attitudes towards sacrifice for the sake of the gospel as a challenge to listeners, he encouraged us to give back to God what He has given to us, whether it be possessions, talents, abilities; everything! At the very end he boldly asked, “Are you willing to live Not 2 Us?” In addition to the evening sessions led by Rob Hildebrand, youth and leaders alike had the privilege of attending hour-long workshops on Saturday and Sunday mornings. These workshops, taught by professors, pastors and lay people, focused on a variety of topics including truth, media discernment, longevity in ministry, and social justice. There were ten workshops to choose from, each offering biblically-based teaching and discussion. As usual, these workshops were the highlight of many people’s Abundant Springs experience.
THE MUSIC Participants were treated to several concerts over the course of the weekend by a variety of musical talents. Comedian and singer Riley Armstrong shared laughs and the love of God through song and story on Friday night. On Saturday night, pop-punk band Hearts In Stereo indulged us with a high-energy concert, complete with popular tunes and a message about Christ’s love. Missionary and renowned worship artist Danny Plett led a worship concert on Sunday morning, focusing the attention of the weekend on Christ. Before each session with Rob Hildebrand, we were guided in worship by a musical team from Kleefeld EMC who provided the crowd with pulsing choruses and worshipful melodies. The band also led an entire worship session on Sunday night, fusing together music and prayer for an evening of intentional worship and personal reflection. THE FUN! While time spent in the pew is imperative for every believer’s faith, Abundant Springs organizers also recognized the importance of getting out there
(continued p. 10)
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The team-sport
and putting what you learn into practice! the most games, awards were given to the tournaments Saturday and Sunday afternoons were teams that showed the best sportsmanship. packed with activities that gave us the Sunday yielded a fantastic wide game, encouraged us to opportunity to do just that. created by Vince Kehler (Blumenort), Mike work together, be On Saturday afternoon, attendees particiFunk (Ridgewood), Jason Heide and Richard humble, and play pated in a variety of tournaments, including Boggs (both Steinbach EMC). volleyball, basketball, street hockey, soccer This year’s endeavour was called “The as a team. and life-sized Dutch Blitz. In addition to Amazing Race,” featuring a whole host providing an energy outlet and a chance to of team-challenge tasks. The Briercrest avenge friendly church rivals, the team-sport tournacampus was divided into several “countries” to which ments encouraged us to work together, be humble, and teams of youth traveled in order to perform the tasks play as a team, not just a bunch of individuals. set out for them. Only three teams completed the two When awards were handed out on Saturday hour challenge, but fun was certainly had by all. evening, instead of recognizing the team that won
After Hours At an hour when most people would be crawling into bed, Abundant Springs attendees were just gearing up for a night of entertainment. Friday night yielded a lively performance by musician-turned-comedian Riley Armstrong of Auburn, California. Armstrong entertained with small-town humour and quirky and upbeat original tunes such as “Talk like a Robot.” He also shared his testimony of how God’s love changed his life, with the hope that listeners might experience the same. Headlining the conference concerts on Saturday night was the pop-punk band Hearts in Stereo. A much different experience than Riley Armstrong the night before, Hearts in Stereo showed up with an arsenal of pulsing beats, catchy pop songs, and lots of attitude. They thrilled the audience with their punk renditions of popular songs to which the crowd jumped, danced and sang along. To wind the evening down, the audience joined the band in praise and worship. A talent show ended the last full day of the conference with a bang. Attendees participated in a multi-media show that included comedy, music, dance, art, and film. To the obvious delight of the audience, the program ran longer than anticipated, filled to overflowing with the entertaining talents of our young EMCers. Hannah Wiebe
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A wide game, “The Amazing Race,” challenged young people to experience a variety of cultures and complete a host of team-challenge tasks.
What Is Abundant Springs, Anyway?
Abundant Springs is an EMC youth conference held biennially at Briercrest Family of Schools in Caronport, Sask. Each time, hundreds of youth and youth workers make the long trek to the campus for a weekend of learning, growing, relationship building and fun. Included in the weekend are daily sessions and seminars, games, worship services, and leisure activities. The event is held over the May long weekend and spans four days, with groups like Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship heading out a day in advance in order to make a 1,600-km journey to get there. This year’s event was the 16th since its beginning in 1981. Abundant Springs is organized by the National Youth Committee and conference youth pastor Gerald Reimer, in conjunction with numerous youth pastors, church leaders, and volunteers. Hannah Wiebe
THE PROJECTS During Rob Hildebrand’s third session, an Abundant Springs tradition was kept: participants were invited to give through an offering time. Funds were sought to help purchase a sound system for Santo Tomas camp and for scholarships to allow people to go to Bible college. More than $3,000 was raised, to be divided evenly. THE IMPACT In speaking with several youth groups it seems as though, in addition to instilling the theme of Not 2 Us in people’s hearts, God had another agenda for the weekend. Many groups experienced the God of peace and unity drawing youth and leaders together in a deep and meaningful way. When asked about the weekend, one youth leader responded by saying, “I was reminded again of how I can’t live this life on my own. I need others for prayer, support, encouragement, and to remind me of the things I so often forget.” Her statement sums up the sentiments of many individuals in attendance, both youth and leaders: in
Workshop Highlights
Dallas Kornelsen
With so many good topics to choose from, it was hard for many of us to pick just three Abundant Springs workshops to attend. For those of you who weren’t in attendance at the conference, below are some highlights from a couple of the workshops held throughout the weekend. Dallas Kornelsen’s workshop on Healthy Sexuality explored the gift of human sexuality within biblical parameters. Kornelsen (Many Rooms) shared the dangers and consequences of misusing this gift, challenging listeners to treat their own as a carefully wrapped present. To close the session, he briefly shared his own story of sexual struggle and redemption as a testimony to God’s unconditional love and grace, regardless of past mistakes. Leading a workshop on unforgiveness was Brigitte
order to live in radical devotion to our King as talked about in the sessions and expressed in the event’s theme, we desperately need community. And what better place to develop this community than at a weekend retreat for youth and their leaders? While many things could have gone awry in the organization and execution of an event of this magnitude, the weekend unfolded with surprisingly few hitches. This is yet another testimony of God’s presence at the conference. Throughout the event, He seemed to be constantly slipping in reminders that it was all about Him and not us, as he stirred hearts, provided, and protected. So while we do well to thank every youth leader for their tireless contributions, every volunteer for their self-less efforts, and every organizer for their hard-work and ingenuity, we must ultimately thank God for such a remarkable weekend. May the glory be to Him, NOT 2 US! Hannah Wiebe, in grade 12, is a part of Saturday Night Church.
Toews (Heartland), who titled her workshop The Bait of Satan. The session was creatively compiled, using PowerPoint, a game of Jeopardy, movie excerpts, and personal anecdotes to inform attendees about who Satan is and how he uses unforgiveness to hinder one’s walk with Christ. Toews dared her listeners to live in the forgiveness of God and extend that same forgiveness to others. Hannah Wiebe
Students take notes during a workshop at Abundant Springs.
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NOT us... Thoughts from the Conference Youth Minister by Gerald Reimer, Conference Youth Minister
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PH
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O: H WI A NN AH
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hen the Spirit of God so clearly invades people’s • How to carefully lives as he did this past May long weekend in handle medication National Youth Committee Caronport, Sask., we can be left speechless. and take care of • Peter Ascough (Kleefeld) But that doesn’t make for a very good perspectives piece. injuries • Jason Dueck (Prairie Grove) Therefore, allow me to share a few thoughts. • The list goes on and • Jason Heide (Steinbach EMC) One young person said to me that the event is so posion. • Kayla Penner (Kleefeld) tive he wished it were every year. This is a great statement! For the majority of this • Brigitte Toews (Heartland) And yet it is tough to see how it could come together so team it was the first time • Gerald Reimer (Conference often. About two years of hard planning and other work planning and they handled Youth Minister) go into each Abundant Springs. it amazingly well. Thank I have heard several people over the past few years you all for your work! say that Abundant Springs “carries itself ” and runs like Speaking of leadership, I want to take this opportunity a “well-oiled machine.” I too have often thought so, for to thank and bless the 150 youth leaders that spent the which I am grateful. weekend pouring into the lives of their students, above The previous four or five events saw an average of and beyond the normal weekly youth group commitment 500-plus students and 175 leaders and throughout the year. administration in attendance. Of those in attendance, 20 are salaried But pulling together a for this work and they are worth every $125,000 event takes more penny they receive. The other 130 than just an optimistic leaders also demonstrated selfless attitude. dedication as they invested in I must confess that students’ lives. A scene repeated the last few months leadat each Abundant Springs is seeing ing up to this year’s event leaders sitting, walking or just hangwere at times stressful as the ing out with students, with their focus National Youth Committee on teens. (NYC) laboured to deal Relational ministry is a huge part A scene repeated at each Abundant Springs with numerous issues and of the weekend and the results bring is seeing leaders sitting, walking or just a tremendous amount of glory to God. Parents, make sure hanging out with students. details. Discernment was you demonstrate your gratitude to needed to decide: the leaders of your children, as I can • What workshop topics and speakers we should testify to their incredible ministry. have A handbook is handed out to each attendee at • How to efficiently move people through the food Abundant Springs and inside there are over 50 names of line to stay on schedule people who helped to make this weekend possible. Thank • Alternate plans in case outdoor activities are you to each of you for faithfully serving in obedience to rained out God’s call on your life. Thank you also to the Briercrest • Whether or not we allow surfing in the mosh pit staff who hosted us so capably. • What type of guest entertainment would fulfil our May the efforts of this weekend bear much fruit in our purposes churches for the glory of God!
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This is why we are part of a Christian community! by Cheryl Braun
I had dealt with depression for many years, not knowing what it was. Having three children in three years and having endometriosis with pain each month was a lot to handle.
PHOTO: DESIGNPICS.COM
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y physician had been telling me for years that I had bipolar disorder, but it was not until November 2007 that it was officially diagnosed. I was in a deep depression. I would go to bed with my kids at 8 p.m. and sometimes sooner. I was trying to get through each day, counting the minutes and seconds until I could go to bed. During that time, I received news that my best friend had been diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumour. It was devastating! Undiagnosed I had dealt with depression for many years, not knowing what it was. Having three children in three years and having endometriosis with pain each month was a lot to handle.
A doctor put me on anti-depressants after my second child, which seemed to help somewhat. When I became pregnant with our third child, I was devastated, thinking the medication would cause birth defects, but our baby was born healthy. Because of endometriosis and my being on pain medication, it was recommended I have a hysterectomy. When my baby was seven months old, I had surgery that put me out of commission for two months. I was constantly thinking, “You made the wrong decision. You’re going to get breast cancer. You cannot have any more children.’’ I thought about my funeral and all I wanted to do was sleep. My children had to come to my bed when they needed anything. I would get what they needed and go back to bed. (continued p. 14)
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I did not care about anything or anybody. I did not want to tell anyone, feeling ashamed. I wanted people to think everything was fine; I could do it by myself. I began having anxiety attacks and thought they were heart attacks. This took a toll on my marriage. We were in a constant battle. I had been given many medications throughout the years. Some helped, while others put me into a bigger fog. Memories of my children’s early years are blurry. In October 2007, I started hearing voices telling me to commit suicide. I attempted a couple of times, but each time God intervened. Upon waking one morning, I felt unbearable dread. I did not think I could go through another day. Being a Christian, I rejected suicide, but I felt so hopelessly lost and depressed, not knowing where to turn. I told my husband and asked him to take me to the hospital. I was terrified of what could happen. The doctor kept me in the hospital for a week on PH O TO : IS more drugs that put me TOC K PH OTO in a bigger fog. This did not .COM make things better. When my husband confronted the doctor, he discharged me. Returning home was no better. Something had to be done. Medical help A friend made phone calls and the next morning my husband and I drove nine hours to a psychiatric hospital. This is where I met the best doctor that I have ever had. Finally, someone seemed to care. She took me off medications and did tests and brain mapping. These tests revealed the illness and I was officially diagnosed with bipolar disorder. The doctors suggested electroconvulsive therapy (ECT); the brain would have seizures to be reprogrammed. This would happen three times weekly for
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three months, which meant leaving my family for that time. We decided to go ahead and signed the papers. I was scared, thinking I would never be the same person again. Then a miracle happened. People prayed for me and I began to feel better. The doctors decided to wait with the ECT. During my four-week stay at the hospital, I took a variety of classes, including stress management. I met people with equal or worse problems. The longer I stayed, the better I began to feel. It helped to not live in silence, to know people were helping me, and that I was not alone in having this disorder. I begged them to let me go home early. Leaving the hospital, I felt great, but it did not take long to realize life was not perfect. The medication I am now on has worked the best so far. I have a good doctor who monitors me.
It helped to not live in silence, to know people were helping me, and that I was not alone in having this disorder. Learning While in the hospital I learned how to help myself: read up on the illness, do not schedule too many activities even though you feel you can take on the world, say no to people or activities if you might not handle them. Ask your spouse and friends not to give up on you. I lost many friendships over the years. You cannot let that get to you. True friends will stay through rough times and will try to understand. Try not to shut people out, but explain how you are feeling. Seek counselling, as sometimes your past can make depression worse. Make sure to get out even if just to check the mail. Your spouse needs to be encouraged to talk to others. It is hard for them as well.
God’s love In the past two years I have gained a better understanding of how much God loves me. This has helped me to cope with my depression more positively. God allowed me to have this illness so that I can help other people and to strengthen me and my relationship with him. A favourite verse says, “I can do everything through him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13). In addition, ask for help. There is hope! “That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10). Lastly and most importantly, God is on our side. Cheryl Braun attends Westpointe Community Church (Grande Prairie, Alta.) with her husband Dave.
Worship songs are conversation— choose the words carefully! by Dr. Christine Longhurst
“Let me write the songs of a nation—I don’t care who writes
PHOTO: DESIGNPICS.COM
It is also hard for people to understand if they have never encountered this. People said that I was just lazy, to pull up my socks, to snap out of it, or to get closer to God. This is not helpful. I believe that if you have God in your life, he knows your heart even if it is hard to pray and the energy to read the Bible isn’t there. That’s when you need other people praying. You should not feel guilty to ask for prayer. This is why we are part of a Christian community. It is our job as brothers and sisters in Christ to hold each other up when we need it.
its laws.”
A
statement attributed to 17th century Scottish politician Andrew Fletcher about countries also applies to the Church. Christians have long recognized music’s power to shape what we believe about God and the life of faith. As New Testament scholar Gordon Fee said, “Show me a church’s songs, and I’ll show you their theology.” Why then do we pay little attention to texts of the songs we sing? In many congregations, far more attention is focused on a song’s musical style than on the words. We debate the merits of traditional hymns, gospel songs, praise and worship music, and songs of the global church. We argue over praise bands and organs, unison singing, and four-part harmony. In the workshops and seminars I do, people frequently talk about musical style. The question of the text—the words we sing—rarely comes up. Historically, the word “hymn” referred to a song’s words. Hymns were poems of faith. Early hymnals resembled poetry books and rarely included music. Tunes were interchangeable and often used for various texts. Placing the words of a text between the lines of music wasn’t generally done until the late 19th century, and then primarily in North America. (continued p. 14)
THE MESSENGER | July 2011
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Music is important. But how carefully does your congregation choose the song texts they use in worship? Who evaluates the words you sing? How healthy and balanced are your textual choices? What might be missing? Consider these questions: To whom are we singing? How clearly do our songs identify the God to whom we sing? I recall a worship service where God was not clearly named until the sermon. Before that, God was referred to as “you.” As worshippers, we were to draw our own conclusions about who was this God we were singing to. And what about God’s Triune nature? Are the songs we’re singing rooted in our understanding of the Trinitarian nature and activity of God?
Who is singing? A characteristic of contemporary worship music is the focus on “I”—songs that reflect private religious feeling, the desires and commitments of individual worshippers rather than the gathered community. This isn’t new. We find numerous examples of “I” hymns in centuries past. Today, however, these songs are surrounded by a worship culture which increasingly understands the life of faith as an individual journey. For many today, weekly worship is not a corporate activity—a conversation between God and the community. It is a private encounter—a conversation between God and me. We may gather in the same room for worship, but the conversations are often private. As Anabaptists, though, we believe that the faith Jesus calls us to not a private, solitary faith. It is faith lived out in community. How well do our worship songs reflect this reality? Do we have a healthy balance of “I” and “we” songs?
PHOTO: DESIGNPICS.COM
For many today, weekly worship is not a corporate activity—a conversation between God and the community. It is a private encounter—a conversation between God and me.
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THE MESSENGER | July 2011
Dr. Lester Ruth, professor of worship at Asbury Seminary, studied 72 top contemporary songs used in North American worship over a 15-year period. He discovered that only three of the 72 songs referred to all three persons of the Trinity. Four songs referred to God as Father, and only six referred to the Spirit. Jesus was named most often, appearing in 32 songs. Robin Wallace, professor of worship at Methodist Theological School in Ohio, discovered much the same in a similar study. Of the 47 texts, 11 songs addressed God as an ambiguous “you.” Almost half of the texts made no direct reference to Jesus or his life, death and resurrection. The Holy Spirit was only mentioned in five songs. How well do our songs reflect the Trinitarian nature of God? What difference might that make to what we believe about God or how God is at work in our world?
What do we sing about? How well do we balance songs about God’s nature and attributes (faithful, holy, loving) with songs about God actions in history (creation, incarnation, redemption)? People comment about the “shallowness” of contemporary worship music. This shallowness is directly related to a lack of balance between songs about God’s attributes and God’s activity. Singing about God’s faithfulness wears thin unless we remember ways in which God has been faithful. Our praise and worship of God is best rooted in our recognition of what God has done.
It’s also important to balance songs of revelation with songs of response. Contemporary praise and worship music has brought to the church the gift of response—songs offering worshippers a chance to sing directly to God. But a diet of response songs can lead to worship which is more about me and how I feel about God than about who God is and what God has done. On the other hand, if we just sing songs of revelation—songs which point us to some objective truth about who God is and how God has acted—but rarely respond to what truth means in our lives, our worship can remain information and never bring us to where transformation can happen. Songs of revelation naturally lead to songs of response. A healthy diet of worship music balances revelation and response. Balance is also important in the range of emotions expressed. Praise is important, but if our relationship with God is honest, praise isn’t enough. Our worship needs room for a range of emotion and response. There’s also the matter of balancing the imminence (nearness) of God with God’s transcendence (otherness). Both views of God are true: God is companion and Creator. How well do our song texts hold these truths—intimacy and awe—in tension so that God is neither too approachable nor out of reach? How well do our song choices balance texts like “O Lord, You’re beautiful, Your face is all I seek” with “Immortal, invisible, God only wise, in light inaccessible hid from our eyes”? Textual and musical diversity The texts we sing are directly related to musical style. Different musical styles bring with them different texts. My decision to use various musical styles in worship is not based primarily on musical considerations, but on a concern for texts that accompany those styles. A diet of Praise and Worship songs is not enough. Neither is a diet of traditional hymns, or contemporary hymns, or songs from Taize, the Iona Community, or the global church.
Healthy worship draws on different textual (and therefore musical) styles. It seeks to balance objective texts about who God is and what God has done with subjective texts that offer worshippers a chance to respond personally to God. It tries to balance topical texts that explore biblical themes and contemporary issues with contemplative texts that allow worshippers to spend time in God’s presence. Healthy worship includes Scriptural texts, traditional texts and newly composed contemporary texts. It balances finely crafted poetic texts to which we can return with colloquial texts written in the immediacy of the moment without regard to literary quality. It values texts that speak to God, that speak to one another, and through which God speaks to us. It includes texts from the global Christian community and our local Christian communities. Just as in conversations with one another, our dialogue with God is enriched by a diversity of content and style, both textual and musical. If our worship is to rise above entertainment or education—if we believe that worship is a conversation between God and God’s people—then the words of that conversation need to be chosen with great care. Dr. Christine Longhurst is a sessional instructor at Canadian Mennonite University (Winnipeg, Man.) and regularly leads workshops on worship. She has a blog for worship planners and leaders at http://re-worship.blogspot.com. (This is a Meetinghouse article.)
Steinbach Steinbach Bible College College Bible 9:30 pm 9:30 am-4:00 am-4:00 pm Visit Visit www.SBCollege.ca www.SBCollege.ca orcall call or 204-326-6451 326-6451 for details for details
THE MESSENGER | July 2011
17
with our missionaries
CARONPORT, SASK. Joe and Kent Dueck share more than a passion for kids. They now share Briercrest College and Seminary’s Alumnus of the Year award. On April 20 the award was presented to the brothers, who each operate inner-city youth ministries. Kent is the executive director of Inner City Youth Alive, located in the north end of Winnipeg, Man. Joe is executive director of Joe’s Place, a youth centre in Moose Jaw, Sask. “Kent and Joe have offered us this remarkable picture of what can happen when people respond to the Lord’s call on their life and invite Him to use them,” said Briercrest president Dwayne Uglem. Even though their life’s work is similar, their paths were different. “I grew up on the cold hard streets of Rosenort, Manitoba,” Kent Dueck joked. He knew from age 15 that “God had called him” to work in the inner city. “Thank God I have a short memory for how difficult things are,” he said. He and his “very encouraging” wife are “making our decisions not based on what we know. They’re based on faith—one step at a time.” When Joe was in his teens he started hanging around with “a bad crowd.” “Even though I grew up in a Christian family, I was doing things that weren’t benefiting me,” he remembered. 18
THE MESSENGER | July 2011
At this time Kent, the older brother, was attending Briercrest and helped to get Joe to attend Youth Quake. “I showed up and just loved it,” Joe said. “Every year I would go back and see that you can have fun without alcohol and drugs,” but “then I’d go back to my old ways.” Joe decided to go to Briercrest even though he wasn’t a Christian. “Two weeks in, I gave my life to Christ….” He struggled with academics and took a break, at the insistence of Briercrest, to figure out if college was really for him. He joined the army, was shipped off to Bosnia for six months, and returned from there with the conviction to do something with his life. He got an apartment in Moose Jaw and asked to come back to Briercrest. He had a sign a “strict code of conduct.” Meanwhile, Dueck met kids on the street who had nowhere to go.
Joe said, “I started inviting them over to hang out.” The college blessed the outreach and supported his efforts, which eventually became Joe’s Place. Both brothers appreciate the role Briercrest played in their lives and ministries. Their rewards are in the lives that are affected. A girl who became a Christian through Joe’s Place graduated from Briercrest and has worked on a cruise ship for the past eight years, Joe said. “It’s the people who come back and tell me their stories and say, ‘That’s the difference you made,’” Kent said. “For me, that’s all the encouragement I need.” Julie Cole, Briercrest College and Seminary Editor’s note: Kent and Joe Dueck were raised in Rosenort Fellowship Chapel (EMC).
PHOTOS COURTESY BRIERCREST
Dueck brothers share Briercrest award
Kent and Joe Dueck received Briercrest’s Alumnus of the Year award for their work with inner-city kids.
with our missionaries
Water, houses, and outings
the number of youth that were continuing their education. Their future will be better, because they NICARAGUA will be able to go to the cities to find work. It has been years since the well The children were also treated at CINAG was completed. The to two field trips. The older ones well remains an integral source of went to Volcano Santiago and the blessing to the community around younger ones to a water park. Fernando Baltodano. Both groups had never been to The sporadic supply of water such grand places. Most have never during dry season makes life been out of the community. challenging on a daily basis. The It was very gratifying for all of children take full advantage of the us to see the sheer joy and wonder water taps as soon as they arrive on on the faces of the more than 60 site. Perhaps a bottle or two also goes children. We asked the youth in the life home with them. How gratifying to skills program to write a letter of see their thirst satisfied. thanks to all those who over the Together with this year’s work years have been involved with team we spent a lot of time in the community. We were able to deliver CINAG. Here is the unedited letter: “We are very grateful to all of food hampers to all the families of you for giving the support that conthe children in the program. tributed to the formation We have returned to this community many of our spiritual and moral values. These are things times, and each time we are overwhelmed that we as young people by the needs that poverty creates. struggle with all the time in our difficult situation. “But we have your support, your The conditions in which some contributions that make a place of these children lived touched like this possible. A place where we all of our hearts. We asked God to can go, a place where we feel we are direct us to a few homes that would need a little extra help in easing the loved and valued as children of God. “Thank you for your economic pressures of the soon to arrive rainy help which is used to buy food, season. school supplies, medicine, clothes, Two new homes were built, and shoes, pay school fees and whatever another one was reconditioned. They were so grateful that this rainy else we might need. “God bless you richly.” season they would stay dry. Nicaragua is in an election year. We have returned to this comPray for a positive outcome that munity many times, and each time would make it easier for organizawe are overwhelmed by the needs tions like CINAG to operate. that poverty creates. It is crucial There are constant demands that the children stay in school. and restrictions placed on children’s We were very encouraged with
homes, which makes it difficult and extremely time consuming. Please pray for the board, director and staff at CINAG, that they will have the courage and joy to be true ambassadors of Jesus Christ. Darlene Olfert
Darlene and Lester Olfert (EFC Steinbach) serve with Action International.
Holiday Travel
kirsten@holiday-travel.ca with the
Bicentennial Committee of the
Evangelical Mennonite Conference presents
Mennonite Heritage Tour with a focus on EMC history to
Ukraine and Crimea Kiev, Mennonite Colonies, Yalta, Odessa from
May 21–June 7, 2012 Estimated cost: $5,200 including airfare
Deadline registration/deposit December 30, 2011 For tour details contact tour host: Len Loeppky 14 Springwood Bay, Steinbach, MB, R5G 2E8 aloeppky@mts.net or 204-326-2613 Informational meeting announcement to follow.
THE MESSENGER | July 2011
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with our missionaries
PHOTO COURTESY DAVE FIELD
68 students graduate from NTBI WISCONSIN We are happy to let you know that 68 students graduated on May 21, 2011, from New Tribes Bible Institute. This class was special to our family because we began here on staff at the same time as these students arrived. We feel like we have grown with them in many ways, and it is sad to see them go. The good news is that 58 percent of them have decided to continue on in serving the Lord in missions; and better yet, they have grown in their walk with the Lord and their dependence on Him. This is the whole reason why our family is so motivated to live here among the students, building relationships with them and walking alongside them.
Sixty-eight students graduated from New Tribes Bible Institute on May 21, 2011.
Many of these students are headed out around the world to take the gospel to people who have never had the chance to hear it. Thank you for your involvement in the amazing work the Lord is doing around the world. Dave Field Dave and Kim Field (Steinbach EMC) serve at the New Tribes Bible Institute in Waukesha, Wisconsin.
Learning the value of saying farewell SOUTH AFRICA/CANADA “Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern” (Philippians 3:17). We’ve been consumed with 20
THE MESSENGER | July 2011
farewells, packing, selling and all that concerns ending a missionary career abroad. In planning our goodbyes we were advised by wise folks to give opportunity to our friends to say their farewells to us. Our modest western minds do not consider how important it is to say farewells. Besides, we don’t want to be disappointed, should such farewells be less than expected.
Farewells are not merely celebrations for those who are leaving. Nice memories spoken by friends to friends and heroes who leave define what they are on the way to becoming. Such memories become scaffolds from which character is built. We counted 71 churches that we served in Zululand alone; some were (continued p. 21)
(continued from p. 20)
merely one time, but with others there were ongoing ministries. Judging from what was said at 28 farewell meetings during our last two months in Africa most of our mistakes seem to have been conveniently forgotten. Our farewells took us to Maputo. A new church building was to be in progress, but a legal problem
Matthew Mathenjwa is a pastor in Ingwavuma who also serves as chairperson of the South Africa National Evangelical Church.
involving a squatter and a former land owner is delaying the start. The matter is before a court and might soon be sorted out. Meanwhile, the church meets in a temporary structure of poles and corrugated iron on their site. We arrived in Winnipeg on the evening of April 19. Our house in Blumenort, Man., was waiting as we expected. In South Africa there are many child-headed homes. The Thengani church ministers to this household, which Joe and Olga We did not expect a huge visited with local leaders. assortment of groceries and a clean house. Our church and Pray for Abe Reimer’s widow, community had outdone themselves Caroline Mitchel, and their wider to welcome us back. Thank you, and family. may God richly bless you! Pray for us as we continue our The health of Abe, Joe’s brother, Home Assignment with TEAM has been declining for many until September 1. We hope to visit months. The closer we were to our TEAM office in Wheaton and leaving Africa, the more acute his contact all our faith partners during predicament was becoming. Then this time. We also hope to be availhis disease was declared terminal able for mission-related ministry as and we were praying to make it the Lord gives opportunity. home to exchange significant words Joe and Olga Reimer with him. In the evening that we arrived in Winnipeg we stopped by Joe and Olga Reimer (Blumenort) the hospital and exchanged such are retiring after career missionary words. service in southern Africa. We were blessed to have done so because on subsequent visits he had other visitors or was too drugged to think clearly. He was ushered into the Lord’s presence on May 10, 2011, exactly 50 years to the day since our father’s home-going. Pray for the South Africa Our kids go to camp to be safe... to have fun….to be loved. Ministry Area, which is going Give a kid a break from the pressures and conflicts of the North End. For a mere through changes with newly $200 you can change a life forever. defined ministry opportunities. Make your donation today. Hambanathi EC Charity, an HIV/ CALL ICYA TO HELP AIDS ministry, appreciates prayer A LESS FORTUNATE CHILD support as it operates with a 204-582-8779 www.icya.ca shoestring budget and an overlyemail: info@icya.ca challenged staff.
Send
AN INNER
CITY child TO CAMP
John Quabe, physically limited by a childhood disease, pastors a small church. About 15 years ago Joe put a roof on his church’s building.
THE MESSENGER | July 2011
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PHOTOS COURTESY JOE REIMER
with our missionaries
with our missionaries
MEXICO Being at the grass roots of starting a new ministry in a foreign country can be pretty heady stuff. There are so many firsts. Here in Guadalajara, a city of over seven million, what one has to process and absorb can sometimes seem overwhelming: streets, cars and driving; significant landmarks and important buildings (medical and governmental) to become familiar with; malls and markets; and all the private residences. The past six months have been exciting as we have met challenges that come when entering a new culture and a new city. We are grateful for people that we have gotten to know here. Some expatriate cross-cultural workers have embraced and encouraged us and taught us so much about Mexico and missions. Our landlord has been helpful and accommodating.
When we moved into our present house, our next door neighbour invited us for a steak dinner and later a daughter’s party. Connie and I were doing our prayer walk when we sat down under a big shade tree in the Metropolitan Park, the general area for our church plant. We prayed that God would give us a divine appointment.
PHOTO: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
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Not a minute later a lady, in a state of anxiety, asked if we could help her by offering our cell phone. We had a wonderful contact with two school teachers and their children. Two weeks later, on our prayer walk, God brought a young man on a mountain bike. He later introduced us to his wife and two children. God has given us a new way of looking at people. Jesus said, “You know the saying, ‘Four months between planting and harvest.’ But I say, wake up and look around. The fields are already ripe for harvest. The harvesters are paid good wages, and the fruit they harvest is people brought to eternal life. What joy awaits both the planter and the harvester alike!” (John 4:35-36 NLT). So much depends on cultivating the keenness of the eye and being available for what God is doing. Ministry flows out of a life with God. We are excited about the team that God is putting together. Dallas and Tara Wiebe with their children are coming mid-July; LeRoy and Faith Siemens are coming late September. We are excited about the team helping with outreach during the Pan American Games in October, developing a discipleship training centre, and hosting a Prayer Team for February 2012. Ministry flows out of a life with God. John and Connie Reimer John and Connie Reimer (Swan River) are leading a church planting effort in Guadalajara City, Jalisco state.
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THE MESSENGER | July 2011
with our churches
Message in a blanket
when it is received by someone in need. RIVERTON GOSPEL CHAPEL, One such MCC event was a quilt In the 12 months ending March Manitoba show and sale in Winnipeg at the 31, 2011 MCC sent 61,744 blankets to end of May. Over seventy-six quilted many countries (www.mcc.org). he earthquake and subsequent works of art were displayed. The The art of blanket making is a tsunamis devastating Japan this fundraiser supported “Acts of Faith” beautiful symbol of Christ’s body year had the world asking, “How in Swaziland, a project to assist working together in harmony to can we help?” Surprisingly, citizens families coping with the large number extend love to a broken world. of Japan, a country known as an of children orphaned through HIV/ Discarded cloth is collected, cut into economic giant, responded by asking AIDS. blocks, pieced together, assembled, people around the world to tied or quilted, and finished send them love and comfort with a border or binding. by making quilts for them Much like the discarded (Interlake Spectator, June 2, cloth, we too were once lost 2011). and without purpose. When An Keuning-Tichelaar, a we surrendered ourselves Dutch Mennonite minister’s to God our creator, He Like a multi-coloured blanket, God has given wife, made a similar request accepted us in our humble members of the body of Christ a variety of to MCC shortly after World state, brought us into a War Two. The couple’s home relationship with Him and spiritual gifts so we might work together. served as a refuge for Jews, gave our lives meaning. hungry children, and Mennonite Other crafters create practical Like a multi-coloured blanket, refugees from Ukraine. MCC sent 50 utility blankets for everyday use. Our God has given members of the body comforters and quilts to assist people small group of women at Riverton of Christ a variety of spiritual gifts leaving their church’s hiding place to Gospel Chapel have taken a renewed so we might work together. A blanket re-enter the community. interest in this, and women of all ages is not complete until it has a binding Volunteers throughout North come together for blanket-making a without which its raw edge will fray America, including many women in few times each year. and deteriorate quickly. the EMC, engage in this craft, some This labour of love is a common In a similar way, the body of stitching intricate and elaborate thread that binds us with many other Christ is incomplete and cannot fulfill quilted works of art to raise money for believers throughout North America. its intended purpose if it is not bound MCC. The gift of a blanket is only complete by love. The experiences of life are a lot like piecing a blanket top. Sometimes we do not have a choice in the blocks of fabric we are given. Some experiences are beautiful while others test us to the limit. Job expressed confidence in God in the middle of horrendous suffering: “When he tests me, I will come out as pure gold” (Job 23:10 NLT). When we cooperate with God, He in His grace is able to create something beautiful out of the pieces of our lives, even the painful ones. Sigi Hiebert The ladies from Riverton Gospel Chapel are part of a wider circle of blanket makers across North America.
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THE MESSENGER | July 2011
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Pelly holds lay renewal weekend PELLY FELLOWSHIP CHAPEL, Saskatchewan
L
ay Renewal Weekend was held April 1 to 3, 2011. This was a first for our fellowship. Much prayer and preparation preceded the time spent together. Friday evening began with a song service and a time of sharing. Saturday morning coffee and muffins were ready and enjoyed between nine and ten. The ladies then went to the sanctuary and the men into the lower hall. With a questionnaire to be guided by, and in twos or threes, time was spent being open, honest,
and seeking to come to terms with the questions at hand. Following a delicious noon luncheon, the afternoon went by quickly with wrapping up of the morning sessions and then sitting around in a friendship circle. God’s presence was felt as many issues were brought forward for discussion and clarification. We enjoyed supper together. Then Doug Wildman spoke during the evening service. Doug is a local Christian counselor and was present for all of the sessions. The regular Sunday morning service concluded this event. The weekend was well-planned and
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appeared to be beneficial to all who attended. Among other activities the chapel has been involved in, was hosting the Lyn and Vi Reimer family, with Gospel Echoes on May 1 in the chapel. On May 8, Mother’s Day, the men very willingly set up and prepared the annual breakfast to a large group in the Pelly Community Hall. The service that followed was conducted by Double Portion, a family group from North Battleford. It was much appreciated. A word of encouragement: may we each be a light and a witness as we live and work in the area that God has placed us. Let our prayer be that of the Psalmist: “May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer” (Psalm 19:14). Vivian Anfinson
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weddings MARK – PLETT: Tony Mark and Kirsten Plett were married on June 5, 2011, at Providence College. The couple lives in Winnipeg, Man.
births VAN NIEKERK – to Jonas and Cecile Van Niekerk of Winnipeg, Man., a son, Max Jacob, on June 29, 2011. PETERS – to Jeremy and Becky Peters of Roseisle, Man., a son, Shawn Harvey, on Nov. 30, 2010. PETERS – to Ryan and Casey Peters of Roseisle, Man., a daughter, Chloe Maddelyn Sage, on Dec. 28, 2010.
PHOTO: AL DUECK
with our churches
with our churches
A Sunday morning prayer EVANGELICAL FELLOWSHIP CHURCH, Steinbach, Manitoba
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his prayer, slightly shortened, was led by Carl Doerksen on July 3, 2011: Lord of Heaven and of Earth, we praise and we worship you. You are the living God to whom Christ has opened the way by giving the ultimate sacrifice, by his death and resurrection. We rejoice with the multitudes of Christians around the world who are calling on your name and worshipping you today. We reflect on the words of the Psalmist who exhorts us to “Honour the Lord for the glory of your name. Worship the Lord in the splendour of his holiness.” That is our desire and our intent this morning. We come to you in repentance for those things in our lives to which we hold a tighter grip than we hold
to you. We confess that we are tempted to have other gods before us, to have priorities that are more pleasing to ourselves than pleasing to you. Jesus, come and cleanse us; renew a right spirit within us. We ask that you would stir our hearts for an ever deeper longing and desire to listen to your voice, to walk with you. May our service this morning serve as a way for us to connect not only with each other, but to connect us with you to empower us and re-energize us for your service and for your glory. We pray this morning for Annual EMC Convention being held in Calgary. May the connections, the discussions and decisions at the convention serve to expand the horizons and visions of our Conference. May they help us to grow in our mission as well as in our service and
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witness to our neighbours and to our world! As we travel and vacation this summer, we ask for your safety and for your protection. May you go before us and fill us with the awe of you as we reflect on you, on your word and on the beauty of your creation. We pray also for our children, our grandchildren and many others who will be attending summer Bible camps this year. Jesus, may your love touch their hearts and impact them in their relationship with you and their love for you. We pray for the week of VBS. Give energy and passion to the leaders and help the boys and girls who come to receive a special touch from you. We pray for Christians everywhere, we who are salt and light to the world around us. May our lives be a sweet smelling savour and a ray of light to those around us! Particularly we are reminded to pray this for the folks who meet at the Emmanuel Evangelical Free Church here in Steinbach. Thank you, Jesus, for your presence here. We commit ourselves to you for this service, for today and for this week. Hear our prayers, O God, for we pray in the powerful name of Jesus our Saviour. Amen. Submitted, at editor’s request, by Carl Doerksen
THE MESSENGER | July 2011
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news
Eden holds grand opening
Affordable housing to be a safe place for persons with mental health issues partner in this project and the previous Eden East project, Penfeld Court. He thanked Pat Moore, Manitoba Housing representative, for being a long-time partner with Eden and its housing projects in Winkler, Steinbach, and also for a new emerging project in Winnipeg. Eden and EMC
PHOTO: EDEN
STEINBACH, Man.—On May 13, 2011, the grand opening was held for a 24-apartment complex in Steinbach, Man., that will provide safe, affordable housing for persons with mental health issues—an initiative of Eden Health Care Services, with which the EMC has long been involved. Wilson Courts, a two building, 24-unit Eden East complex, is located close to downtown Steinbach with its many services. It was purchased from Mark and Bonnie Loewen and then renovated. Deb Taillefer, director of mental health for South Eastman Health, noted how important housing is for people living with mental health issues; and how great it is when organizations work together with the regional health authority, government agencies such as Manitoba Housing, as well as business and civic organizations to make quality community-based projects a reality. James Friesen, CEO of Eden Health Care Services, thanked all of the people who had assisted with each stage of the project. He noted that Manitoba Housing has been a great
In front of one of the Wilson Courts buildings: Mark and Bonnie Loewen; Ron Dyck, Eden East director; Ed Penner, Eden East board member; James Friesen, Eden CEO; Pat Moore, Manitoba Housing; Bill Kehler, Eden East board chair; and Deb Taillefer, director of mental health for South Eastman Health.
MDS ready to respond to Manitoba flood recovery Focus will be to help people who ‘ fall through the cracks’ WINNIPEG, Man.—Although parts of the province are coping with massive flooding, MDS is thinking of the flood and will respond in recovery and clean-up efforts if there is a need, says a spokesperson. MDS and its volunteer network typically focuses on long-term recovery and is prepared to clean and rebuild homes for those without adequate resources, said Lois Nickel. “Whereas some organizations are busy now supplying food and staffing evacuation centres, MDS’s role comes into play when the water recedes and people have had a chance to assess their damages,” said Nickel. Although governments have announced they will provide compensation, there are often people who “fall through the cracks for some reason or other,” she said. These are the families and homeowners who MDS typically helps.
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MDS works in partnership with a network of nongovernment organizations in the province that respond to disasters. MDS was heavily involved in the clean-up and recovery efforts in Manitoba following the 1997 flood and is currently involved in reconstructing a house in Emerson flooded in June 2010. Donations to MDS’s Manitoba flood response are welcome. Cheques should be made out to MDS and designated Manitoba 2011 Flood. They can be mailed to MDS, 6A-1325 Markham Road, Winnipeg, MB R3T 4J6. Credit card donations can be made at 866-261-1274 or online at www.mds.mennonite.net. MDS is a volunteer network of Anabaptist churches that responds in Christian love to those affected by disasters in Canada and the United States. MDS
news
MCC program reaches out to moms Interaction is enjoyed
“Hearing other women share their stories helped me realize I was not the only one feeling like this,” she said. “That was really helpful.” MCC Ontario worked with Low German Mennonite families returning to Canada since the 1970’s.Visit ontario.mcc.org/lowgerman for information about Low German Mennonites. Gladys Terichow, MCC Canada
PHOTO: NINA LINTON, MCC
CHATHAM, Ont.—Eva Unger, a mother of a 13-monthold daughter and expecting her second child, loves the idea of making washable baby books that can be cuddled and chewed. Two other ideas of interest are sewing colourful potholders with familiar images and making “touch and feel” cloth books from leftover fabric. “These are neat ideas,” said Unger, 22. She picked up the ideas at an early-literacy workshop offered through the Building Healthy Babies program at the MCC Help Centre in Chatham. Early literacy does not mean learning to read early, explained Carrie Myers, a speaker at the workshop. “It means snuggling with your baby, singing, pretending, rhyming, conversation and looking at books,” said Myers, a specialist in early literacy. “The more experiences babies have with music, rhymes, books and reading, the easier it will be for them to learn to speak and learn to read.” In addition to new information, Unger said she enjoys interacting with mothers and their children. Her sisters, she said, had encouraged her to come because she was experiencing post-partum depression following her daughter’s birth.
Early literacy specialist Carrie Myers reads to Sahra Fehr while her mother Katharina and other participants, Maria Krahn and Tina Klassen, watch Sahra’s response.
Stiller named as WEA global ambassador
PHOTO: TYNDALE
Dr. Brian C. Stiller has been appointed Global Ambassador of the World Evangelical Alliance, which represents an estimated 600 million Evangelicals worldwide. Stiller served as president of the Canadian Youth for Christ, was presiDr. Brian C. Stiller dent of The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada, and was president of Tyndale University College and Seminary. EFC is one of 128 alliances that are affiliated with the WEA, and EFC President Bruce J. Clemenger is a member of the International Council. EMC is part of EFC, which is part of WEA. EFC
Radical Followers of Jesus DVD
A DVD highlighting men and women who “display radical forgiveness, radical love
The film is available from the EMC office: 204-326-6401, rroman@ emconf.ca or www. emconference.ca; $15 (home license) or $30 (lending library license).
and radical peace” has been produced by the Evangelical Anabaptist Fellowship of Canada. DVDs can be obtained for $11.20 (plus shipping) from the EMC office (204-326-6401 or rroman@emconf.ca).
THE MESSENGER | July 2011
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news
Stitching healthier communities in Cambodia AKRON, Pa. – When Say Sophal in her village, almost has more cusSophal, one of only two tailors was 12, her mother and father died tomers than she can handle. of AIDS. Now a young woman, 17, Of the 180 graduates of the proin her village, almost has more Sophal supports and cares for her gram’s first class, 28 have purchased customers than she can handle. grandparents, ages 87 and 94. sewing machines. They join Sophal She and a younger sister live with in remaining in their home comthem in a thatched-roof home in a village within poor munities, helping attire neighbours, and keeping hardMesang district, Prey Veng province, Cambodia. earned income in the localities. Sophal learned of a vocational sewing and tailoring Emily Will, for MCC program that began at Mesang High School in 2010 through MCC and its local partner. She continued her academic courses in the mornings and added sewing in the afternoons—and graduated. In nine months, Sophal learned enough to begin tailoring for friends and family members. A sister helped her buy a sewing machine. Sophal has been stitching together some $50 a month with a treadle machine and coal-heated pressing iron. This income allows her to purchase more nutritious food, including fruit, and the daily medicines her grandparents need. Despite the greater region’s garment factories, demand for custom-made clothing remains high. Sophal, one of only two tailors Say Sophal uses this sewing machine to support and care for her disabled grandparents.
MDS takes cost-cutting measures WINNIPEG, Man.—The MDS Region V (Canada) board passed a motion on June 28 to help cut costs due to postKatrina donation realities. Giving to MDS continues to be strong, but spending at Katrina response levels cannot be sustained any longer. The motion included lowering travel reimbursements for volunteers and terminating one position in the office (receptionist/administrative assistant). Remaining employees will be taking reductions in salary and the board continues to seek ways to lower its administrative costs as well. Lois Nickel, MDS
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THE MESSENGER | July 2011
Statement of Reconciliation “Corey Herlevsen and Steinbach Bible College are pleased to announce that following a series of conversations reconciliation has been reached. While moving on to other opportunities, Corey will be continuing in relationship with Steinbach Bible College as an adjunct faculty member.” SBC and Corey Herlevsen
PHOTO: DAPHNE HOLLINGER FOWLER, MCC
MCC supports training of seamstresses and tailors
news
MWC delegation visits Japan International aid, local initiatives combine in response TOKYO, Japan—A Mennonite World Conference (MWC) delegation to Japan, May 21-30, brought hope and support to Japanese Anabaptists traumatized by the earthquake, tsunami and nuclear plant meltdown there last March. The MWC delegation was invited by the Japan Mennonite Fellowship (JMF); it included MWC Deacons Commission secretary Bert Lobe; Paulus Hartono (Indonesia) and Willie Reimer (MCC). The delegation held three main meetings in Tokyo and the northern island of Hokkaido, meeting with JMF representatives. They met in Osaka with the Nippon
Japan Mennonite Fellowship (JMF) hosts with the MWC delegation: Yoshihira Inamine (JMF treasurer and MWC Asia Caucus member), Michio Ohno, Ishido Mitsuru, Paulus Hartono (MWC), Takanori Sasaki (JMF chair), Bert Lobe (MWC), Willie Reimer (MCC).
More than Enough: My Breast Cancer Story
Food and dislocation issues were overwhelming, but the MWC delegation also heard concern about nuclear energy. Menonaito Burezaren Kyodan (Mennonite Brethren Conference), not an MWC member. On May 28 JMF formed an assistance committee to provide relief and early rehabilitation. JMF had received $55,000 from their member churches for disaster relief. MCC, which has received more than $954,000 for Japan relief, has earmarked a portion to support Anabaptist churches. It has given $700,000 to Church World Service, a partner of MCC. Donations are still accepted. Many initiatives have or are being taken by local Mennonite and Brethren in Christ churches: volunteers deliver medicine and supplies, clear debris, entertain children and elderly. Two Baptist churches got financial support. One church hopes to accept evacuees. Two congregations will host children being treated or plan summer camps for them. Food and dislocation issues were overwhelming, but the MWC delegation also heard concern about nuclear energy. There are 70 nuclear power plants in Japan. “Are there atomic energy experts in the Anabaptist communion with whom we might be in conversation?” asked Takanobu Tojo from Tokyo. MWC
PHOTOS: MWC DELEGATION TO JAPAN
by Sherri Hildebrandt $18.99, 240 pp. can be ordered from the EMC national office (mailing extra) or www.sherrihildebrandt.com Sherri and her husband were previously involved in youth leadership at Morris Fellowship Chapel (EMC).
JMF meeting in Tokyo (left to right): Front row: Shintaro Okazaki, Paulus Hartono, Takanori Sasaki, Bert Lobe, Willie Reimer, Michio Ohno. Back row: Kho Jo Katano, Yoshihira Inamine, Ishido Mitsuru, Shozo Sato, Takanobu Tojo, Yuko Tojo, Shigeyoshi Kimo, Keisuke Oshikiri.
THE MESSENGER | July 2011
29
news
MCC helping ‘the poorest of the poor’ in Pakistan Partnerships help after one-fifth of country is flooded
WINNIPEG, Man.—Pakistani families watched last steel buckets and other milking equipment. summer as their homes, crops, livestock and livelihoods Participants receive training on animal health, gewere washed away by flood water that covered one-fifth netics, nutrition, milk production and marketing. The of the country and left millions program provides training needing assistance. for 30 veterinary workers. MCC, in partnership with other churchMCC, in partnership with other Another MCC-funded church-related organizations, con- related organizations, continues to help some project is focusing on tinues to help some most vulnerable most vulnerable families rebuild their lives. water, sanitation and families rebuild their lives. hygiene in the Kohistan MCC is helping 300 families in district in KPK. the Shangla district in Khyber Pakhtukhwa (KPK) provThis seven-month project, which started November ince start farming again through a $600,000 sustainable 2010, is repairing 32 water supply systems and 300 lalivelihood one-year program implemented by Church trines and hand washing facilities damaged during the World Services—Pakistan Afghanistan. floods. The 300 households selected are “the poorest of the About 4,500 families in 35 villages are benefiting poor.” Preference was given to widows and other female- from this $277,000 project; it also includes hygiene comheaded households and to those with minimal income mittees, training, and distribution of kits containing and assets and who are responsible for family members non-food items. who are elderly or have disabilities. Donations to MCC’s Pakistan flood response totaled Each household receives a dairy cow or a buffalo, fod- $1.53 million. der, building materials for animal shelters, and stainless Gladys Terichow, MCC
Dueck honoured at Providence and Briercrest OTTERBURNE, Man.—Kent Dueck, co-founder and executive director of Winnipeg’s Inner City Youth Alive, was recently honoured by Providence College “for his significant contribution to the lives of inner-city youth.” Dueck received the College’s Distinguished Christian Leadership Award, which was presented at the college’s graduation ceremony on April 16, 2011. Dueck, who actually graduated from Briercrest Bible College, said “the Providence award was out of the blue a bit.” Three days later he went to Briercrest to receive “the alumnus of the year along with my brother [Joe] who runs a youth ministry in Moose Jaw,” he said. He called it, “A pretty bizarre week.” Kent Dueck was raised in Rosenort Fellowship Chapel (EMC). PC and EMC
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THE MESSENGER | July 2011
PHOTO: PROVIDENCE COLLEGE
Executive director of Inner City Youth Alive receives Distinguished Christian Leadership Award
Providence professor Cameron McKenzie presents Kent Dueck with Providence College’s Distinguished Christian Leadership Award.
in memory
Jacob (Jac) P. Friesen 1928–2010 Jac Friesen, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, was born on November 9, 1928. The good work that God began in his life was completed on Sunday, Nov. 26, 2010. Jac was born to John E. and Gertrude Friesen on the family farm in the RM of Ste. Anne, Man. He accepted Christ as his personal Saviour and Lord and was baptized upon the confession of his faith.
Orlanda Anna Rempel (nee Hamm) 1921–2010 Peacefully, on Tuesday, Nov. 2, 2010, at the Portage General Hospital, Orlanda Rempel of MacGregor, Man., beloved wife of Ben Rempel, passed to her heavenly home. Orlanda was born August 10, 1921, to Isaac and Maria Hamm near Altona, Man. She spent the first nine years of her life there until her family moved to Gouldtown, Sask. At Gouldtown they owned a store and ran the post office. This is also where she completed her education. Working in the store was something that she enjoyed very much. It was here that she accepted Christ as her personal Saviour at the age of 14.
On June 21, 1958, Jac married Minna Plett. Together they took over the Friesen family farm. Sadly, their first daughter, Edith, was stillborn. The Lord later blessed them with three daughters: Donnalda Lynn, Landis Ladine, and Angela Leanne. In 1967 Jac was ordained as a lay minister in the Blumenort EMC. He enjoyed his many years with the Singing Grandpas. In 1996 they sold the farm and retired in Blumenort. Jac’s battle with dementia began subtly and progressed slowly over the last 14 years. Each season of his illness brought out varying characteristics. He passed away peacefully on Sunday, Sept. 26, 2010, with Minna by his side. Jac leaves to mourn his passing: his dear wife Minna, children and grandchildren Donnalda, Landis and Hernán with Monica and Giovanni, Angela and John with Jillian and Thea, his brother
Henry and sister Helen. Extended family and a large circle of friends will cherish memories. Jac will be remembered for his many friendly handshakes and a smiling wave. Jac’s faith in Christ was displayed in the songs he sang and whistled as long as he was able. The family thanks the 55-plus adult day care program for providing Jac with a social outlet, the homecare staff that looked after him at home, Dr. Zacharias for his home visits, and the staff at the Ste. Anne hospital where he spent his last days. The family is grateful for the many expressions of love and comfort during this time. A celebration of his life was held on Oct. 1, 2010, at 2 p.m. at the Blumenort EMC. An interment service with family happened at the Blumenort church cemetery. His Family
She was later baptized in Arden, Man., on May 6, 1945. In 1942, her family moved back to Manitoba, settling on a farm in the MacGregor area. Besides helping on the farm, she had various housework jobs and worked as a cook at the Mennonite Brethren Bible College. On Oct. 2, 1949, she married Ben Rempel. The first years of their marriage they lived in Winnipeg where she worked in a sewing factory. In the spring of 1952 they purchased their farm just west of MacGregor. She loved to work, helping with milking and other farm chores. She also enjoyed gardening and always had a big garden. Another great passion was Sunday School, which she taught for many years. During their time on the farm they raised their three children: Les, Gordon, and Delores. Upon retirement in 1989, they moved to MacGregor, where they lived at the time of her passing. She very much loved her time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Disembarking from the car, she fell and broke the femur head at the right hip on Oct. 22, 2010, and underwent a complete hip replacement at Boundary Trails Hospital. She was recovering well in the Portage District Hospital and expected to be home shortly.
She was predeceased by daughter Valerie, by her parents, brother Elmer Hamm, and brother-in-law Ben Friesen. Left to mourn are her husband of 61 years, Ben Rempel; son Les (Debbie), Ryan, Tracy (Peter) Enns, Jenna (Jason) Belk and Rylee; son Gordon (Amy), Sean (Adrienne) and Joshua, Alicia (Giancarlo) Calla, Lindsey Rempel (Ryan Markus) and Karlee, Michelle (Jordan) Sawatzky; daughter Delores (Doug) White, Lisa (Steve) Roch, Kristi (Jason) Perkins; two brothers, Otto (Margaret) Hamm, Menno (Elvina) Hamm; two sisters, Henrietta Friesen and Elvira Hamm; and one sister-inlaw, Lena Hamm. The service of remembrance was held on Nov. 6, 2010, in the MacGregor EM Church (her church), with interment at the MacGregor cemetery. She was a special aunt, evidenced by the many nieces and nephews who attended. We find comfort in believing the Lord called and Orlanda answered, being ushered into her heavenly home. Though her passing was so unexpected and we sorrow because we miss her so much, we are thankful that she was spared extended suffering. “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints” (Psalm 116:15). Her Family THE MESSENGER | July 2011
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in memory calendar
John Toews 1928–2010 On October 16, 1928, God blessed Maria and Henry Toews with their son John. He spent his formative and early adult years on the farm. John was a lifelong learner. A graduate of Steinbach Bible College, Normal School, and Brandon University, John earned his Bachelor of Education degree while teaching, pastoring, and parenting full-time. Learning paved the way for his many years of pastoral ministry and his successful career as an educator. John was an adventurer and camper. He instilled in his children a sense that the world is a wonderful place worth exploring. Tent trailer in tow, the family traveled from the Hopewell Rocks in New Brunswick to Butchart Gardens on Vancouver Island to the giant sequoias in California. John was an artisan and craftsman. His children and grandchildren have creations from him—table and chairs, coin display, shelf, scroll art, candleholders, clock, sword. John was an educator and teacher. His teaching career began in a oneroom school in Valley Stream and ended with nine and half years in Arden. John was a devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and a generous friend. His grandchildren knew his predictable presence at hockey or baseball games, curling or soccer matches, school dramas or Christmas programs. At home, John could often be heard saying to Tina, “Whatever you want….” John was a faithful servant. His calling to pastoral ministry was persistent, leading him to embrace pastoral ministry full-time. John was a compassionate care-giver and thoughtful orator in MacGregor, Arden, Swift Current, Burns Lake, Grande Prairie,
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Swan River, Mackenzie, Straffordville, and Vanderhoof. John served within the EMC, being ordained in MacGregor in 1965. John’s diverse gifts and interests were rooted in a deep faith in God. In whatever role or place, in the workshop or at worship, John was devoted to living his relationship with God. His familiar posture, at the kitchen table, Bible open, eyes attentive to the text and mind awake to the Holy Spirit’s voice, is a lasting image of his faith and commitment to service. John is survived by his loving wife Tina; son Reynold and wife Arlene and grandson Michael with wife Amy and great-grandchildren Braden, Colby, Isabelle; grandson David with wife Janessa and great-grandson Jonah; grandson Jeremy with wife Stephanie, and granddaughter Kristine; son Jonathan with wife Liana and children Nathaniel, Jillian, and Anika; daughter Monica with husband Bruce and children Erika, Carly and Julia; daughter Ruthanne with husband Barry and children Aaron, James, Kieron and Toban; and daughter Laurel. John is survived by sister Gertrude and brother Neil. He was predeceased by his father Henry, his mother Maria, brothers Henry and Dave, and sisters Annie and Sarah. John was also predeceased by his son Jeffery with whom he is now riding bicycle in heaven. John’s leadership and friendship have cut a wide swath of blessing. While keenly aware of his shortcomings, it is safe to say that great has been the harvest of his ministry. We are heart-broken to say good-bye, but as he wrote in a card he created, “Those who love God never meet for the last time.” His Family
British Columbia no events currently
Alberta no events currently
Saskatchewan no events currently
Manitoba Aug. 5: Steinbach Bible College 75th Anniversary Golf Tournament, Steinbach Fly-In Golf Course, 204-326-6451, www. sbcollege.ca Aug. 6: Steinbach Bible College 75th Anniversary Homecoming, 50 PTH 12 N, Steinbach, 204-326-6451, www.sbcollege.ca Oct. 13–15: 21st Winnipeg Prophecy Conference, “But whom say ye that I am?” Portage Avenue Church, Winnipeg, 204-888-7270, www.wpgpc.org Oct. 14: Going Barefoot communicators’ conference, keynote speaker: John Stackhouse, Canadian Mennonite University, Winnipeg Oct. 21–22: Anti-Modern Pathways: Horse and Buggy Mennonites in Canada, Belize and Latin America, hosted by the Chair in Mennonite Studies, University of Winnipeg, mennonitestudies.uwinnipeg.ca Nov. 15–17: RE:CALL, National Church Planting Congress, Calvary Temple, Winnipeg, www.thecongress.ca, EMCers planning to attend should register through the EMC office, 204-326-6401 or efehr@ emconf.ca
Ontario no events currently
Join with Christ in shaping our
WORLD Evangelical Mennonite Conference Board of Missions 204-326-6401 info@emconf.ca www.emconference.ca
shoulder tapping Pastoral positions Morweena EMC of Morweena, Man., is currently searching for an interim pastor to serve a congregation of about 250. We are located in the Interlake near Arborg, roughly 140 kilometers north of Winnipeg. Responsibilities would include preaching, visiting and caregiving, working with the existing ministerial group in event planning and helping to facilitate/envision some administrative restructuring. The church is offering a parsonage adjacent to the church for the duration of the interim pastor’s stay. For information please contact Sid Dueck at 204-364-2476 (h), 204-364-2442 (w), or sid.dueck@ vidir.com.
Youth work Mennville EMC and Riverton Gospel Chapel (EMC), in Manitoba’s Interlake region, seek a full-time youth pastor for a joint youth group. Candidate should have strengths in relationship building and have an ability to plan a comprehensive youth program. Contact Paul Peters at 204-378-2740 or paulhecla@yahoo.com. Aberdeen EMC, a small, multi-generational Anabaptist congregation in the heart of Winnipeg’s North End, is seeking a half-time youth and children’s pastor. This new position will be part of a two-person ministry team, and will develop and lead our ministry to our youth and children, and participate in the broader ministry needs of the church. Activities will include planning and leading events, leading Christian formation and forming supportive relationships with our children, youth and their families. If you are committed to the Christian faith and to Anabaptist teachings, have experience working with children and youth and/or have theological education; if you have energy, creativity and want to serve the church; if you are interested in pastoral
The EMC Board of Leadership and Outreach is beginning the process of calling a godly, wise and relational person to serve as our EMC conference pastor. The conference pastor provides support to local churches and spiritual care to pastors, facilitating pastoral transitions, guiding the process of conflict resolution and encouraging healthy church/conference relationships. Qualifications: • agreement with the EMC statement of faith. • demonstrated ability and experience in providing pastoral care and leadership. • availability to mediate in situations of conflict and misunderstanding. • availability to travel to all regions of the
ministry and are committed to guiding youth and children on their faith journeys, then we want to hear from you. For information visit our website at www. aberdeenemc.ca. Applications should be submitted in confidence to Charlotte Gesell at 204-417-8578 or thegesells@gmail.com. Rosenort Fellowship Chapel is seeking to fill a full-time position of youth pastor. We are a congregation of approximately 150 attendees located in Rosenort, Man. The position would require successful applicant to lead both senior and junior youth programs. We would like to see some youth involvement in morning services with possible pulpit opportunities. A recently remodeled youth room in the church is used for their weekly event. We are looking for a person/couple with a passion for God’s word and a heart for our youth. They are to be approachable, accountable, supportive, missional to create real relationships with the youth and disciple them. Starting date is negotiable. If interested please contact Ryan Friesen at 204-7466345 or ryan@gninc.ca.
Other opportunities Countess Place, a residential group home for teen girls in Portage la Prairie, Man., is looking for energetic, motivated Christ followers to serve as group home workers. Live your faith as you serve girls aged 12–17, their friends, community, and other young adults (ages 15–25) who drop in. CP is a Christian non-profit organization that runs a group home licensed by the province of Manitoba. Be the hands of Jesus in all aspects of their care. Join the team as we program for their activities, life skills training, education plan, spiritual journey and community building. Currently the schedule is being modified to include full-time, part-time, weekends, or nights. Minimum requirements are to have or obtain a
conference and the ability to relate to people of various backgrounds. • good verbal and written communication skills. • ability to balance the need for support, accountability and confidentiality. • theological training of at least a bachelor’s degree; graduate studies are preferred. For a full job description call the EM Conference office at 326-6401 or email efehr@ emconf.ca. To speak to someone about this role, contact the search committee: Fred Buhler (306865-2623 or pfchb@sasktel.net), Kim Stoesz 204-667-2970 or kim.braeside@shaw.ca), or Layton Friesen (204-261-8370 or laytonfriesen@ mts.net). The application deadline is July 15, 2011.
current driver’s license, criminal record check, child abuse registry check, level “C” first aid. Be paid to do ministry; wages based on experience. This will stretch you and test your faith. Come prepared to be challenged and grow in your understanding of the faithfulness of God (http:// countessplace.webplus.net/index.html). Contact: Donna Moman, countessplace@ gmail.com. Mennonite Foundation of Canada, a donor-advised charitable foundation established in 1974 to promote financial stewardship from a Christian perspective, is seeking a communications strategist. The communications strategist will report to the MFC Executive Director and will plan, direct, and coordinate the communications strategy of MFC. This will involve developing promotional products and services, making recommendations with respect to product positioning, managing the marketing budget, and providing market research and analysis. Key communications vehicles and channels currently in use include: brand style guide, website, denominational periodical correspondence, electronic newsletter, workbooks, and an annual report. For a full list of qualifications, go to www.mennofoundation.ca/about-us/careers. MFC offers a competitive salary and benefits package. Resumes will be considered in the order received as sent to: Darren Pries-Klassen, Executive Director, Mennonite Foundation of Canada, 4-595 Carlton St, St Catherines, ON L2M 4Y2, E-mail: dpklassen@mennofoundation.ca. Red Rock Bible Camp has two year-round positions available in our food services department: food services manager and an assistant food service manager. Training or experience in the food services industry is preferred, but we are willing to train the right individual. Agreement with the camp’s mission and statement of faith is necessary. The successful applicant must be service oriented, work well with people and be a team player. Housing, partial board salary, medical and dental benefits provided. Send resume to Red Rock Bible Camp, 204320 Main Street, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z1 or kim@ redrockbiblecamp.com.
The Messenger does not sell advertising, but provides free space (classified and display) to enhance our Conference, its churches, boards and ministries; interMennonite 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.
THE MESSENGER | July 2011
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I AM’s Child
by Anicka Loewen
Those hands, brutal and ugly are taking it His Masterpiece They twist it up, breaking it, killing it, destroying it I AM sobs Great, angry sobs They shake the sky We cry too The woman walks out, with a weight on her chest Not knowing what is happening above her He weeps viciously Tears of compassion and pain This baby never had a chance, never knew what life was I AM’s child… Is silent Anicka Loewen, 13, is part of Portage Evangelical Church (EMC) in Portage la Prairie, Man.
PHOTO: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
He is making something Molding it carefully, slowly…beautifully All the other angels lean forward with anticipation Finally I AM lifts up his eyes and speaks His voice His mighty, raging, quiet voice reaches our ears “It is finished. My masterpiece is finished.” My companions sigh in wonder In I AM’s outstretched hand is a child An unborn baby He looks at it with such pride “Perfect.” Then, with one swift motion He parts the clouds The earth lays beneath us His burning, loving, gentle eyes search for her The one he chose to receive His work of art Then, I AM finds her He carefully places His child in her womb On earth, weeks pass But where we are it feels like seconds, or less We all stare with excitement “Surely, the woman will treasure His gift,” We whisper amongst ourselves We watch, wait, listen… But then she walks into a building, with tears in her eyes There is a silent gasp in heaven I AM’s face falls We know what is happening We can see
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stewardship today by Darren Pries-Klassen
Joyful generosity
I
n his book, Will Our Children Have Faith? John Westerhoff argues that for future generations of young people and adults to develop Christian faith they will need more than Sunday School. They’ll need a host of opportunities where faith is not only taught but experienced. In the same way, the making of a joyful giver requires more than just words. Ask people why they share generously from what God has entrusted to them and inevitably you will hear stories and experiences that shaped them into who they are. Simply hearing about generosity is not enough. We have to engage with it, live it. MFC’s theme this year is Joyful Generosity. Paul encouraged a
less experienced church leader in Ephesus with these words: “As for those who in the present age are rich, command them not to be haughty, or to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but rather on God who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. “They are to do good, to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share, thus storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of the life that really is life” (1 Timothy 6:17-19). To really live the life that God wants for us, we need to move beyond a faith that only engages the head. Cynthia Bourgeault, in her book The Wisdom Way of Knowing, writes that trying to find faith with the intellectual centre is something like trying to play a violin with a saw. It’s the wrong tool for the job.
PHOTO: DESIGNPICS.COM
Simply hearing about generosity is not enough. We have to engage with it, live it. We need to be engaged at the heart level, where we live, move and have our being. We must also experience the selfless act of giving generously and express our faith through the use of our finances. Some practical expressions of joyful generosity:
• Teach your children at an early age that money is for sharing and saving, not just spending, and use an allowance as part of the teaching. • Talk about your giving habits with family around the dinner table. Involve your children and teens in decisions about giving. • Consciously work at ensuring that your investments aren’t in conflict with your values. • Plan your giving as part of your regular weekly and monthly spending, not just end-of-year, last-minute leftovers. The biblical concept of first fruits, giving from our first and best, is still relevant. • Make end-of-life gifts to charity—through a will, life insurance policy, retirement fund, or tax free savings account—as a final testimony to your values. When your head, heart and wallet are aligned, you will be helping to build the good foundation which Paul spoke of in his letter to Timothy. It is my hope and prayer that joyful generosity grips you so that you live “the life that really is life.” Darren Pries-Klassen is the Mennonite Foundation of Canada’s executive director. MFC, a non-profit organization, provides stewardship education and estate and charitable gift planning for no cost. Contact your nearest MFC office or visit Mennofoundation.ca.
THE MESSENGER | July 2011
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kids’ corner by Loreena Thiessen
Activity: Choose something to
memorize, a poem, a favourite verse, or Psalm 23.
How is your memory?
W
hat have you memorized lately? Have you memorized Bible verses for Sunday School? Do you know a poem by heart, or part of one? Do you know your times tables, 1x1=1, 1x2=2, 1x3=3? You get the idea. Why should you memorize something? Long ago memorizing was the basis for learning. This means that this was how students learned, by memorizing. It also means that what they learned was what they memorized; it was the subject.
How does memorizing help you? Memorizing gives you confidence. You know you are able because you have done it. And having memorized something makes it easy to remember. What you memorize can help you understand something. You learn about a story, a person, or an event. Memorizing makes you notice the exact words used to express something. You hear their sounds and their rhythm. Memorizing, especially when you speak it out to someone, helps
Psalm 23 The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet
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waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness, for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
36 THE MESSENGER | July 2011
What to do: Divide the piece into manageable parts. Memorize one part at a time. Review all the parts you have memorized each day. Recite your memorized piece to a favourite audience. Notice how your accomplishment makes you feel.
you speak clearly and correctly. You want them to understand. When you memorize you will improve your memory. What you have memorized you will remember. You will focus on detail, the words used and what is said. You will notice a feeling or an idea in whatever you are memorizing. So what will you memorize? What about Psalm 23? What will you learn? First, you may not think of yourself as sheep, but God does. And, like a shepherd He wants to take care of you, provide for and protect you. You will learn what God will do. He will lead you and guide you into a place of peace if you are facing a difficulty or when your schedule gets too busy. You will learn what God promises, that you need not be afraid; He will protect you. When will God do this? All the days of your life. Try it. Psalm 23 has only six verses. When you have it memorized, speak it out to someone, your parents or your grandparents, or a friend. THE MESSENGER Evangelical Mennonite Conference 440 Main St, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 Publications Mail Agreement #40017362 Registration #09914