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Volume 53, No. 4 Publications mail registration number: 09648; Agreement number: 40009297
The pilot
PHOTO: DUS TIN
WIE BE
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was on my way to church. It was a cold, blustery day, so I was driving. He was standing against the wind, his hand up to shield his eyes, clipboard in hand. I didn’t think much of it until, on my way home, I noticed him still there looking up at the sky. “What’s he looking at?” I wondered. When I got home, I bundled up, grabbed my camera and headed out. I was curious. I also felt he needed company. No one should be left standing all alone in the cold. As I approached, I could see he was in uniform with the headgear of a pilot. His satchel rested at his feet. Snow had built up around him. The wind was howling. I leaned into it as I trudged through the snow to stand next to him. I looked up. I didn’t see anything. He didn’t appear to notice me. “What are you looking at?” I shouted. He didn’t answer. Just as I was about to repeat my question, he said, “There’s one more.” “One more what?” I replied. “One more plane.” “I don’t see it.” “Neither do I.” With that admission, he heaved a sigh. “There were five planes that went out this morning on a test run, and only four have returned.” He’s waiting. Of course. Danger has a way of bonding people. These airmen train for the worst. That’s why they go out on days like today. They have to be ready for anything. War doesn’t only happen in good weather. They’ve all tasted fear. It’s the glue that makes strangers cohorts. They know that having a buddy with you in the trenches or the air – or waiting for you to come home – is what keeps you going.
“How long will you wait?” I asked him. “As long as there’s hope.” We stood together in silence. The wind chilled me to the bone. Reluctantly, I turned to go. His words were ringing in my ears – as long as there is hope. I felt choked up as I made my way home. It took me a while to recognize where the emotions gathering in my chest were coming from: I longed for that. I longed for companions who would ride out the storms with me. I longed to be a friend like that. It wasn’t long before people in my life who are like this man came to mind. I am blessed. I whispered a prayer for the airman and his missing comrades. Life can be tough, filled with pain and uncertainty. Oh, to have someone watching for us. Those same words echoed back to me on the wind: “Oh, to have someone watching with me.” I looked up. I had read those words recently. “Stay here and watch with me” was his simple request. Jesus had just poured out his heart to his closest friends, Peter, James and John, as he anticipated his death. “My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death.” Could it be that Jesus has this same longing for someone to wait with him, to wait for him, to be that friend, to have that kind of love? I stopped for a moment to let that sink in. Would I have been the first to run to his grave when the news came that he was alive because I had been waiting, watching, with hope? Am I that kind of friend? A few days later, as I walked this same path, I saw the pilot still there, looking up at the sky. I stood beside him and joined him in his gaze. I guess there’s still hope. Yes, there is hope. Kathy Francis currently makes her home in Winnipeg and Halifax and other cities across Canada as she works on a book series, Conversations With Monuments.
FEATURES 13 Four simple tools to build faith in children –Nikki Lanigan
14 What makes a missionary family? –Karla Braun
18 Gap year for God The risk, prayer and faith of discipleship programs –Karla Braun
COLUMNS 4 Editorial Ready for resurrection –Laura Kalmar
8 Outfront What do we deserve? –Willy Reimer
9 Hogg Wild Uptight about evangelism? –Bill Hogg
10 Convention report: Ontario Living on mission through collaboration, accountability and blessing –Ellen Paulley
12 Text Message 1 Corinthians 11:27–30 Communion: Room for everyone –Kevin O’Coin
34 Intersection of faith and life Life in the Angry Era –Phil Wagler
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DEPARTMENTS 5 Letters 6 Homepage
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20 News in brief 21 News in story 24 Transitions, births, weddings, church anniversaries
CORRECTION: Re March 2014 “Finish lines,” Virgil (Ont.) MB, 1939 should have appeared under the heading Baptism in Katie (Kay) Dueck’s obituary.
30 Finish lines [Obituaries] 32 Crosscurrents
COVER PHOTO: Laura Kalmar MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD April 2014
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Editorial Ready for resurrection L AUR A K ALMAR
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very Easter, I carefully place a bowl of pysanky (Ukrainian Easter eggs) on my table as a colourful and meaningful centrepiece. The eggs are hand-decorated treasures of times spent with my aunt. During Lent, we sat at her dining room table, melting beeswax over candles, careful not to burn ourselves. We meticulously drew designs on the smooth white surfaces and spoke quietly of family and faith. This year, those eggs – traditional Ukrainian Easter decorations - will take on new significance, as the people of Ukraine are embroiled in devastating military conflict with Russia. Our thoughts and prayers are with them, especially since the ancestors of many in our denomination lived there for generations. The eggs also signify something much greater and more enduring. They are compact reminders of Christian hope. With their hollow shells and vivid exteriors, pysanky are symbols of the empty tomb on Easter morning. Christ is risen! With the resurrection comes the incredible promise of new life. We cry out for new life in Ukraine. We cry out for new life in Canada. We cry out for new life for us all. Everything rides on this The resurrection is central to all we believe. In 1 Corinthians 15:14, 17, Paul says, “If Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith…. If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.” Theologian N.T. Wright explains that Jesus’ resurrection caused early Christians “to reorder their lives, their narratives, their symbols and their praxis accordingly.” It changed who they were, what they did and how they lived. Jesus’ death and resurrection are beyond doubt the most important events in Christian tradition. Why is the resurrection so significant? The resurrection signals God’s approval of Christ’s sacrificial self-offering for others at the crucifixion (Acts 2); it marks the launch of the new humanity (Romans 5); it indicates deliverance from sin’s bondage (Romans 8), incorporation within the body of Christ (Colossians 3) and empowerment 4
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for a life of discipleship (Romans 6, 12; 2 Corinthians 5; Ephesians 2). Our hope in the Lord as Saviour, Redeemer, Reconciler, Victor and Healer hangs on the truth of the resurrection. Life renovation The resurrection also tells us that Jesus is the great Renovator. (Don’t we all love a good renovation project, when a room takes on completely new character after being outfitted with new tiles, hardware and paint?) The fact that Jesus can take death and turn it on its head – renovating something once dark and dismal – and turn it into life is beyond comprehension for most of us. But it is the very hope we confess every Easter. And it’s the same hope that fuels our belief in personal transformation. If Jesus can prove victorious over our ultimate enemy – death – he can certainly be victorious over the sin in our lives by the power of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 15:57). Too bizarre? But is this story too strange for us to truly embrace? Is the truth of the resurrection simply too incredible to believe? Our brothers and sisters from the Global South seem far more attentive to the resurrection than North Americans. Perhaps it’s due to their socio-economic realities – with poverty, disease and violence part of everyday life – or perhaps it’s because of their familiarity with supernatural intervention. Either way, sisters and brothers from the Global South seem less troubled by the details of Jesus walking away from the tomb on Easter morning eagerly showing the marks of his crucifixion to the disciples (John 20:27). One Colombian pastor who has seen
amazing transformation in Venezuelan Mennonite churches, attributes the change directly to the resurrection: “Resurrection power is manifested when it seems all is lost…. God raises the dead to vindicate them in ways that are unexpected and incomprehensible from a human perspective.” We in the West are often too analytical and calculating, with a preference for scientific research, well-ordered thought and rational explanations. We’re also more accustomed to living without want or fear. Globe and Mail columnist Margaret Wente says it this way: “We attenuated Christians prefer our faith bland and anemic. Many parts of our tradition are quite moving (the carols, the baby in the manger, the shepherds who watch their flocks by night), but other parts are too bizarre for our taste (the casting out of devils, the crucifixion and that whole deal with the empty tomb and the resurrection).” This year, are we willing to take a fresh look at the resurrection? Are we willing to face the beautiful and amazing story once again? Are we willing to open our lives to its transformative power? Are we willing to admit that just like beeswax and dye can change an ordinary egg into something exquisite, the resurrection can truly change our lives?
APRIL 2014
“I left part of my heart there!” With the support and prayers of Greendale MB Church, Sardis, B.C., Jessica Pauls, Kris Stobbe, Bev Klassen, Lisa DeVries, Emily Siemens, Tiffany Rast, Karly Dixon, Chelsea Brown, Marilyn Thierren and Verna Reimer went on a two-week Compassion International Exposure Trip to Haiti, Jan. 10–21, 2014. Destruction from the 2010 earthquake was still evident in the rubble in the streets, broken buildings and tent cities. Yet, Klassen says, the children in
Compassion’s project had joy and self-confidence, and the staff were not only professional but also caring, godly and dedicated wholly to the children. “Christians worship with heart and soul – there are no spectators in these churches,” Klassen says. “ It was a trip to remember, says Klassen; “heartwarming, heartbreaking. Sunshine and beauty, darkness and garbage – a land of contrasts only superlatives can describe.”—Janice Bahnman, Greendale
Letters Military chaplains matter Re “Chaplains: Leading the missional charge” (Features, February). It’s wonderful to see us looking for new approaches for “taking Jesus to the people.” Going to bikers, prisons, care homes and sport teams are commendable ways to reach out to those who are either unable or unwilling to come to our places of worship. However, it appears we’ve dismissed military personnel as not being part of that opportunity and even responsibility. For the past four years, I’ve served as padre to a small Royal Canadian Legion. I’ve had the opportunity to speak at Remembrance Day services, decoration days and school assemblies, and, at least once a month, I sit with veterans and listen to their experiences. Sometimes we pray together if it’s appropriate, but I can always bring them to God’s throne in my private prayers. I fit neither the stereotype of “a bearded and sombre Mennonite chaplain or even a skinnyjeaned, latté-wielding one.” When my Mennonite friends discover what I’m doing, they often raise their eyebrows and recite the stereotype of what they think a Legion meeting is. My response is that it’s a place where there are broken and hurting
people who often have gone through terrifying experiences I find difficult to comprehend. WALDO THIESSEN ALTONA, MAN.
Opportunity to speak into Canadian law I recently attended a forum on prostitution in Canada. This issue calls for our urgent consideration in view of the fact that on Dec. 20, 2013, the Supreme Court of Canada struck down our current laws on prostitution and has given Parliament a one-year deadline to enact new ones. We have a responsibility as members of this democracy to hold our elected officials accountable and challenge them to take this opportunity to enact legislation that will protect all Canadians from the unscrupulous and predatory; to let our Members of Parliament know that they have been elected to formulate laws that declare the buying and selling of human beings a crime. They need the courage to act. Let’s challenge them and pray for their success. The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada website is a good place to start regarding information, tips, tools and resources for individuals and groups wanting to get involved. HOWARD DIRKS ABBOTSFORD, B.C.
Mennonite Brethren Herald is published monthly by the Canadian Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches, primarily for the use of its members, to build a Canadian MB community of faith. We seek to 1) share the life and story of the church by nurturing relationships among members and engaging in dialogue and reflection; 2) teach and equip for ministry by reflecting MB theology, values and heritage, and by sharing the good news; 3) enable communication by serving conference ministries and informing our members about the church and the world. However, the opinions expressed here are not necessarily those of the church as a whole. Advertising and inserts should not be considered to carry editorial endorsement. Winner of Canadian Church Press and Evangelical Press Association awards for Writing, Design, and Illustration: 1996–2012. Editorial office 1310 Taylor Avenue Winnipeg, Manitoba R3M 3Z6 Phone: 204-669-6575 Fax: 204-654-1865 Toll-free in Canada: 888-669-6575 Email: mbherald@mbconf.ca http://www.mbherald.com PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NUMBER: 4000929 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: CIRCULATION DEPT., MB HERALD 1310 TAYLOR AVENUE WINNIPEG MB R3M 3Z6 CMCA
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Copyright The articles printed in the Herald are owned by the Herald or by the author and may not be reprinted without permission. Unless noted, Scriptural quotations are from THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Subscription rates 1 year $24 ($30 U.S. & foreign) 2 years $44 ($60 U.S. & foreign) 3 years $64 ($90 U.S. & foreign) Please add tax to domestic subscriptions. See www.mbherald.com or phone 204-654-5766 for rate. Contact kbraun@mbconf.ca for electronic options. Change of address + subscriptions Notice of change of address should be sent to circulation office, and should include both old and new addresses. Allow 4 weeks for changes to become effective. Email circulation office at subscribe@mbconf.ca or phone 204-654-5766. Advertising Advertising inquiries should be sent to advertising office (advertising@mbconf.ca). Display and classified advertisement copy must be received at least three weeks prior to publication. Advertisements are priced at a rate for insertion in one issue or at a discounted rate for insertions in three or more issues (not necessarily consecutive). Classifieds are priced per line, with a minimum charge of six lines. Staff Laura Kalmar editor Karla Braun associate editor Audrey Plew designer Helga Kasdorf circulation + advertising Angeline Schellenberg copy editor Barrie McMaster B.C. regional correspondent CANADIAN CONFERAdvisory Council: Helen Rose Pauls, B.C. Brad Sumner, B.C. Gil Dueck, Sask. Sabrina Wiens, Ont. Volume 53, Number 4 • Copy run: 16,000
Letters to the editor Mennonite Brethren Herald welcomes your letters of 150–200 words on issues relevant to the Mennonite Brethren church, especially in response to material published in the Herald. Please include name, address and phone number, and keep your letters courteous and about one subject only. We will edit letters for length and clarity. We will not publish letters sent anonymously, although we may withhold names from publication at the request of the letter writer and at our discretion. Publication is subject to space limitations. Letters also appear online. Because the Letters column is a free forum for discussion, it should be understood that letters represent the position of the letter writer, not necessarily the position of the Herald or the Mennonite Brethren church. Send letters to: Letters, MB Herald, 1310 Taylor Avenue, Winnipeg, Man. R3M 3Z6, or by email to mbherald@mbconf.ca.
THE MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD IS A PUBLICATION OF
MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD April 2014
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ILLUSTRATION: MELISSA HIEBERT
My courageous mother My German Baptist mother from Volhynia, Ukraine, was a strong woman, a woman of great faith and a compelling storyteller. Of the many stories she shared with me before her death in 1990, this one impacted me the most. Between 1937 and 1939, thousands of Christians in Ukraine were deported to Siberia on trumped-up charges or simply killed. My mother was a young widow with a little girl to raise and an elderly aunt to support. Toiling on a kolkhoz (collective farm) in Dnepropetrovsk, hundreds of miles away from extended family, my mother worked very hard and tried to be as unobtrusive as possible. However, one evening, there was a loud knock on the door. Standing on her doorstep was the kolkhoz commandant. One question followed another until he came to the one she had been dreading: “Do you have a religious faith?” My mother was prepared to say no. God would understand: she wasn’t really denying him; she needed to protect her daughter and aunt. Yet, in spite of her intention, the words came out: “Yes, I’m a believer!” She was shaking like a leaf, yet my mother felt God’s sweet presence envelop her. The commandant shook his finger: “You have two strikes
against you: you’re German, and you’re a believer.” He put his questionnaire away. “If you weren’t such a conscientious, hard worker, you would disappear.” And he walked away. This story reminds me that “He is risen, indeed” and lives to make intercession for us. As friends in Ukraine fear a return to those dark times today, I am grateful that Jesus gives us courage and faith to be strong in tough times.—Lilli Kehler is from Abbotsford, B.C.
The Colors of the Mennonites in Andhra Pradesh: Devuni Prema Idhigo/Behold the Love of God David A. Wiebe & Paul D. Wiebe, featuring photographs by Rufus Gurugulla Behold the love of God written in the faces of his Indian children. The Colors of the Mennonites – more family photo album than narrative – is aptly titled: this is the Mennonite Brethren of Andhra Pradesh in weddings and worship and all that walks between. A foreword, preface and epilogue bookend the glossy paged hardcover packed with full-spread pictures by the Wiebes and Indian photographer Rufus Gurugulla and watercolour paintings by David Wiebe. The book includes photos of church and school buildings (some impressive, some humble) and panoramic shots of Indian cities and countryside, but most 6
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of all it shows the faces of Indian Mennonite Brethren in their colour and diversity, full of agency and joy. Assembled and captioned by David and Paul Wiebe, The Colors of the Mennonites reads like a love letter from these nowretired, American, twin brothers who spent their early lives as missionary kids in India. Previous books by the Wiebes In Another Day of the Lord: The Mission Days of the Mennonite Brethren Church of India in Pictures (black and white), and Heirs and Joint Heirs: Mission to Church Among the Mennonite Brethren of Andhra Pradesh fill in some historical and cultural background on the MB church in India.—KB
coming events Conference events:
Each month in 2014, we’ll highlight an ICOMB partner. Support our brothers and sisters around the world by learning about and praying for them.
Consejo de las Congregaciones de los Hermanos Menonitas del Uruguay (Council of MB congregations in Uruguay) Congregations: 7 Members: 190 Uruguay was founded by the Spanish in 1726 as a military stronghold and is today the most “European” of South American countries both by its population (88% white, 8% mestizo, 4% black) and its social makeup (a secular state with well-developed social security, health and educational systems). Roman Catholics comprise 47% of the population, non-Catholic Christians 11%, those who identify as spiritual but not religious 23%, atheist or agnostic 17%. Mennonite Brethren arrived in Uruguay in 1948 as German-speaking settlers from war-ravaged Europe and organized themselves in colonies. The first MB church was established on the Volendam (steamer) in 1948 prior to landfall. The Mennonite Brethren in Uruguay are committed to outreach. In the 1960s, the Board of URUGUAY Mission and Service sent Spanish- and Germanspeaking workers Daniel and Elsie Wirsche to serve in outreach and church planting. The German MB organization was shuttered in 1979, but the Spanish MB church continued to grow slowly in the cities. They established a retreat centre and participate in a small Bible school. PRAISE the Lord for the strength of unity among the seven fellowships who meet regularly and encourage each other. PRAY for emerging leaders. Pastors are aging and the conference is small. PRAY for the school’s plans to build a video-conferencing network with other Spanish-speaking conferences to expand its course offerings. PRAY for the missional spirit to produce fruit. The congregations desire to develop church plants and to reach out in mission. One member currently serves internationally with MB Mission’s Team C4.
VISUAL ARTS CONTEST
WHAT IS GOSPEL? PHOTOGRAPHERS & ARTISTS: send a pictorial representation of “gospel” or “mission” to mbherald@mbconf.ca OR add to “MB Herald 2014 photo contest” on Flickr.com.
Apr. 1–2: C2C church multiplication conference, Calgary. Apr. 12: AEFMQ convention, Les Ambassadeurs Chrétiens, Montreal. May 2–3: BCMB convention, Cariboo Bethel Church, Williams Lake, B.C. May 4–6: BCMB pastor and spouse’s retreat, Harrison Hot Springs, B.C. May 13–15: C2C assessment centre, Montreal. May 25–27: MBCM pastor’s retreat, Hecla, Man. June 8: AEFMQ rally, Centre culturel et communautaire Thérèse de Blainville, SainteThérèse, Que. June 9–11: PCO, ACTS Seminaries, Langley, B.C. June 11–14: Gathering 2014, Vancouver. Sept. 23–25: C2C assessment centre, Calgary. Oct. 6–8: ABMB pastor and spouse’s retreat, Canmore, Alta. Oct. 6–8: SKMB pastor and spouse’s retreat, Dallas Valley Ranch Camp, Sask. Nov. 4–6: C2C assessment centre, Toronto. Nov. 17–20: C2C church planter retreat, Vancouver. Partner events:
Apr. 18: Bethany College spring concert, Hepburn, Sask. Apr. 19: Bethany College commencement service, Hepburn, Sask. Apr. 19: Columbia Bible College commencement ceremony, Abbotsford, B.C. Apr. 26: Canadian Mennonite University spring concert, Winnipeg. Apr. 27: Canadian Mennonite University convocation, Immanuel Pentecostal Church, Winnipeg. June 5: Columbia Open Golf Tournament, Redwoods Golf Course, Langley, B.C. June 10: Canadian Mennonite University president’s golf classic, Kingswood Golf and Country Club, La Salle, Man. June 16–27: Canadian School of Peacebuilding, Canadian Mennonite University, Winnipeg. July 17–19, 2015: Mennonite World Conference Global Youth Summit, Messiah College, Mechanicsburg, Pa. July 21–26, 2015: Assembly 16 Mennonite World Conference, Harrisburg, Pa. View more events from churches, schools and agencies at mbherald.com/calendar.
Winning entries published in July 2014 MB Herald. Submission deadline: May 12, 2014.
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Outfront What do we deserve? W I L LY R E I M E R
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he decision to give Denny [Morrison] my spot was purely about performance. We wanted what was best for the team, what gave us the best chance to win.” That was the response from Canadian speed skater Gilmore Junio when asked why he gave up his spot in the 1,000 metre final at the Sochi 2014 Olympics. Junio had every right to skate in the final – he had earned it. But he chose to gift his spot to his more accomplished teammate who had failed to qualify. Morrison went on to win the silver medal, as Canada celebrated both Morrison and Junio with a spirit of pride that rises when someone commits a truly selfless act. Junio is a true Olympic hero because his victory is greater than any athletic accomplishment. His victory is one of heart and character. What do we deserve in life? I find it ironic that what we admire so highly in Junio – the act of sacrificing something he deserved – is the very thing we’re often loathe to do in our daily lives. Advertisers have built significant campaigns around our desire to attain things we feel we “deserve.” According to radio and TV commercials, we deserve a lot – the best vacations, the best food, the best technology and the best cars. The definition of deserve is “to merit, be qualified for or have a claim to (reward, assistance, punishment, etc.) because of actions, qualities or situation.” In other words, we deserve something because we’ve earned it or are entitled to it because of a quality we possess. What do we deserve from God? Some people approach God with this same mindset: I do my part to serve, give, attend, pray and read, and God does his part to bless, protect and guide. Then life events distort the formula, and we cry foul. Over the years, I’ve listened to people complain they haven’t received what they believe they “deserve” from God. After all, they did their part. God should do his part. They shake their fists at God, declaring his 8
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impotence or bemoaning his indifference, all the while ignoring his immanence. What’s your list of what you deserve? Good health, financial success, relational wealth, personal wholeness, freedom from the sinful choices of others? But Jesus never promised us freedom from the troubles of this world. In fact, he promised us quite the opposite: “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). It’s Jesus’ bad news/good news message. And the good news far outweighs the bad!
from God with no means to bridge that separation other than through the acceptance of Jesus’ death on our behalf. Jesus offers us an outrageous act of grace. I appreciate these popular definitions: justice is receiving what we deserve, mercy is not receiving what we deserve and grace is receiving what we do not deserve. As I accumulate life experiences, my sense of injustice grows, as does my awareness of my need for grace. I know the darkness my heart is capable of. No degree of comparison with those whose public sin is greater than
Grace is scandalous, irrational and unnatural. The problem of sin When people asked Jesus to remove hardships from their lives, he instead addressed humanity’s greatest need – the condition of our hearts caused by our separation from God. Jesus understood that entitlement is our “presenting issue,” but sin is our core issue. We enter this world spiritually dead but physically alive, marked by sin from the womb. Our sin nature leads us to compare ourselves with those who struggle in more obvious ways when we assess our shortcomings. We extend the benefit of the doubt to ourselves while judging the motives of others. An Easter perspective Easter invites us to lift our eyes and focus our gaze on the one who made it possible for us to become spiritually alive, forgiven and free. Paul reminds us of God’s goodness in Romans 5:8: “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” It’s God’s initiative, driven by love, irrespective of our sinful state. In order for Christ’s substitutionary death to be of any significance, we need to see ourselves as sinners – people separated
mine can hide the fact that, when confronted by the blinding light of justice, I fall short. I don’t relish facing the double-edged nature of justice; the justice I want for others also applies to me. I recognize I’m a sinner in need of a saviour, which means that mercy – while wonderful – isn’t enough. I need more than mercy. I need grace. Grace acknowledges the depth of my sin, names the price that needs to be paid, then makes the payment on my behalf. Grace is scandalous, irrational and unnatural. Grace disarms the cries of injustice driven by entitlement because grace can only be embraced and appreciated by those who recognize they’re not entitled to anything. Grace is counterintuitive to the human condition. Grace stops us from reaching for what we believe is rightfully ours and enables us to receive more than we ever thought we were entitled to. Thank God for grace! Thank God for Easter! Willy Reimer is executive director of the Canadian Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches and lives in Calgary with his family.
HOGG wild
Adventures in missional living
Uptight about evangelism? BILL HOGG
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n her classic work, Out of the Saltshaker, Rebecca Manley Pippert opines: “Christians and non-Christians have something in common: we’re both uptight about evangelism.” She also confesses, “There was a part of me that secretly felt evangelism was something you shouldn’t do to your dog, let alone a friend.” The anxiety Pippert identifies is something I address in my workshops on “Becoming good news people” across the country. These interactive, participatory learning experiences empower people to plant the gospel where God has planted them. What is it about evangelism that causes our palms to sweat and our pulse to race? Part of the challenge involves a postmodern aversion to truth claims and gospel proclamation. We need to recover proper confidence in the gospel and announcing the amazingly good news of Jesus. “Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ” (Romans 10:17). Keep talking If I had five cents for every time I heard the following axiom attributed to St. Francis of Assisi, I’d be a wealthy man: “Preach the gospel at all times – and if necessary use words.” This aphorism undermines the validity of gossiping the gospel and heralding the message of salvation. ‘“Preach the gospel; use words if necessary” goes hand in hand with a postmodern assumption that words are finally empty of meaning,” says author Mark Galli. “It subtly denigrates the high value that the prophets, Jesus and Paul put on preaching. Of course, we want our actions to match our words as much as possible. But the gospel is
a message, news about an event and a person upon which the history of the planet turns.” Further, author Ed Stetzer plays missional mythbuster: “A godly life should serve as a witness for the message we proclaim. But without words, what can our actions point to but ourselves? A godly life cannot communicate the incarnation, Jesus’ substitution for sinners or the hope of redemption by grace alone through faith alone. We can’t be good news, but we can herald it, sing it, speak it and preach it to all who listen.” Part of our missional challenge is we’ve subscribed to unhelpful approaches to evangelism that set us up for disappointment. In particular are the unhappy ideas that evangelism is just for salespeople and the particular preserve of extroverts. Rely on the Spirit We need to be liberated from the undue pressure of sales pitch evangelism with its canned presentations. We need to step into the adventure of messy, Spirit-led evangelism. I recently had the privilege of preaching at the historic First Baptist Church in Vancouver. Between services, I chatted with FBC senior pastor Darrell Johnson who offered a helpful definition of evangelism: “Evangelism involves eavesdropping on a conversation between a human being and the Holy Spirit and entering into the conversation when invited by either party.” Evangelism isn’t all about “closing the deal.” Yes, we need to unashamedly announce what God in Christ has done for us and urge people to be reconciled to God. We need to be invitational people who invite people to follow Jesus and engage in the spiritual midwifery of leading people to Jesus. But first and foremost, we need to be led by and empowered by the Holy Spirit.
The good news is it’s not up to you or me. The Holy Spirit is God the Evangelist and we have the privilege of joining him in the enterprise of evangelism. Be open to redirection Transformative gospel communication has two dimensions: illumination – the blessed work of the Holy Spirit – and explanation. This is gloriously illustrated in Philip the evangelist’s exchange with the Ethiopian treasury official buzzing along a desert road in his chariot. (See Acts 8:26–40.) Philip receives divine guidance and redirection; the Spirit of God tells him to go close to the chariot (v. 26, 29). Philip shows up where God is already at work and encounters a man on a quest for God: “He had gone to Jerusalem to worship” (v. 27). During the return trip to his homeland, the treasury official is poring over arguably the most Christcentred passage in the Old Testament. Philip steps into a divine appointment. The impetus for this redemptive encounter is heaven redirecting Philip from the epicentre of a spiritual awakening (Acts 8:4–25) to a desert wasteland. Philip displays receptivity to the guidance of the Spirit. May we all have that same receptivity to be redirected by the Spirit! Bill Hogg is national missiologist with the C2C Network. Fasten your seat belts because Bill will explore the art of spiritual conversation in his next installment of “Hogg wild: Adventures in missional living.” For more information about Bill’s workshops and how you can participate, go to mbherald.com. MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD April 2014
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Conference news
Ontario Conference of MB Churches 83rd annual convention, Feb. 21–22, 2014
Living on mission through collaboration, accountability and blessing OCMBC delegates dedicate New Hope Niagara’s new building N E W H O P E C H U R C H N I A G A R A , S T. C AT H A R I N E S , O N T.
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he Ontario Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches (OCMBC) convention explored the theme of living on mission through discussions about collaboration, accountability and blessing. “Convention reminds us that God calls us to a cause that is bigger than any one church or city,” said OCMBC board chair Karen West. “We can do more together for the sake of his name than we can individually.” The 83rd annual convention, which included a dedication ceremony of host congregation New Hope Church Niagara’s new building, took place Feb. 21–22, 2014, with 122 registered delegates who represented 22 of OCMBC’s 27 current member churches.
The Gathering, Ottawa, to Waterloo MB, explained that blessing is the act of bestowing a divine gift or favour on someone. In the context of the church, blessing happens when Christians keep in mind the king and the kingdom they are serving. “The world is watching what we do. Don’t lose sight of what we’re trying to do in our nation,” said Stevens. “Be about his kingdom, where he is king and where he alone is king.”
Accountability Vice-chair Kevin Bayne said accountability is essential to the mission of multiplying disciples because it allows the church to maintain its distinctiveness from the culture around it. “When we walk in the ways of this world, we lose our distinctiveness to it. When our lifestyles cause the church to lose its distinctiveness, the church loses its power and authority to speak into the culture.” One of the gifts God has given churches is to call each other back into community, said Bayne.
“All in” Keynote speaker Randy Friesen, general director of MB Mission, encouraged delegates to consider whether they were “all in” for Jesus. He reflected on Jesus’ model of growing in faith so that disciples are not merely healthy themselves, but are being used by God to multiply the kingdom. As OCMBC strives to be a conference that glorifies God by multiplying disciples of Jesus Christ, Friesen challenged delegates to remember that “the key to multiplication is being sourced in Jesus, finding life in him, surrendering our lives to him and saying ‘we’re all in.’”
Blessing Board member Chris Stevens, transitioning from lead pastor at
PHOTOS: ELLEN PAULLEY
Collaboration Executive director Ed Willms said that over the past year, the conference clarified its reasons for existence and developed the following mission statement: “OCMBC exists to glorify God by multiplying disciples of Jesus Christ through our member churches, facilitating collaboration, providing accountability and encouraging blessing.”
Willms asked delegates: What if we chose to live collaboratively? What if we shared resources? What if we regularly prayed for each other? What might God do with this bunch of people? Rather than living in isolation and building competitive silos, he encouraged churches to work together. “We believe this brings a smile to our Father’s face,” he said.
Delegates discussed collaboration and accountability, and shared stories of God at work. The artwork on stage was painted by Shawn Reimer during Friday night’s worship.
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Business The Journey, Ottawa, was received into full membership with OCMBC and The Access Centre, Ajax, was reaffirmed as a full member church. Additionally, associate membership status was granted to Reconnect Barrhaven Community Church and Free Church Toronto. Ron Willms, chair of the nominating committee, reported that the committee completed the 2012 mandate of developing clear policies and procedures for the nomination and election processes. Karen West was re-elected as board chair, and the slates of candidates for both membership-at-large and the nominating committee were acclaimed.
New bylaws were approved allowing the Bethesda board to include three members who may not be active in a member church of the conference. This amendment to the bylaws reflects the broader constituency Ed Willms (r) welcomed pastors of The Journey, The Access Centre, ReConnect Barrhaven and Free Church Toronto. that interacts with Bethesda’s ministry for • The Ontario conference is sending out constituents and congregations working people with developmental disabilities. through sexual misconduct or abuse. four missionaries globally for long-term A motion approved the recommenmission through MB Mission: Sean Fast dation the board of directors for Tabor National reports (Grantham MB), Doug and Deanna Manor also be the board of directors • Willy Reimer, CCMBC executive Hiebert (Cornerstone Community) and for Pleasant Manor Retirement Village, director, announced the draft mission Jill Ramer (Waterloo MB). statement CCMBC is working on: To Mennonite Brethren Senior Citizens • More than 850 people attended camp multiply Christ-centred churches to see Home Inc., The Pleasant Manor and last summer and 40 children accepted Canada transformed by the good news of Tabor Manor Foundation and The Jesus Christ as their Saviour, reported Jesus Christ. Pleasant Manor and Tabor Manor Ed Heinrichs and Andrew Hiebert of Support Association. • Ron Toews, Resourcing Churches Camp Crossroads, Torrance, Ont. The OCMBC 2014 operating budget Developing Leaders director, highlighted Almost 100 community members of $348,500 was approved. www.leaders2learners.ca, a new online attended a Christmas dinner camp community that offers assessment, coachstaff hosted in Torrance. Ministry reports ing, resources and online learning oppor• John Bryan, spiritual life director • Gord Fleming, national director of tunities for MB churches and leaders. at Eden High School Spiritual Life C2C Network, invited delegates to pray • MBBS Canada enrolment manager Centre, said the school’s 873 students for church planters from Victoria to Sherman Lau said the seminary is no lonrepresent 873 stories that are served by Halifax. C2C Network Ontario regional ger in start-up mode: a degree-granting the centre’s mission “to impact the lives director Greg Laing spoke about two charter was received in 2013 and a graduof our students by directing them to new ministry hubs – spaces for training, ate school of theology and ministry has ministry, prayer and study – now open in Christ.” recently been started in conjunction with Ottawa and Toronto. Laing also reported • Rick Cober Bauman, executive direcCanadian Mennonite University. tor of Mennonite Central Committee that there are currently 6 new or emergThe convention concluded with Ontario, reported that five churches ing church plants in downtown Toronto. prayer for the ministries and people are partnering with MCC to share • OCMBC has $50,000 available to God’s love with temporary migrant involved in ministry. support church ministries, reported workers. He suggested that the MB In his concluding comments, Michael Stork, ministry development church, as an historic peace church, OCMBC vice-chair Kevin Bayne encourfund committee chair. There is only one has an opportunity for a peace witness aged delegates to continue to have a year of full funding remaining, and Stork in a Canada that has a young populaheart toward one another that blesses, asked for prayer that continued funding tion of veterans. prays for and celebrates God’s work in will be raised. each other. “In order for the kingdom of • Joan Hyatt, representative from • The OCMBC faith and life team, God to thrive, we need all of us to be ‘all MCC’s Sexual Misconduct and Abuse chaired by Richard Martens, is developin,’” said Bayne.—Ellen Paulley, CCMBC Resource Response Team, reported the ing plans to credential 30 new pastors. communications coordinator team provides means and support to
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Text message Communion: Room for everyone 1 CORINTHIANS 11:27–30 KE VIN O’COIN
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s I digested the words of 1 Corinthians 11:27–30, I felt a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. I was aware of a weight hanging over the crowd gathered to receive communion. I looked to the person on either side of me, and it seemed we were all reckoning with the fearful reality of what would happen if we drank the cup in an unworthy manner. The problem was I couldn’t quite figure out what an “unworthy manner” might be. So I decided – just to be safe – I’d confess every sin I could think of. I’m sure I even made up some sins just in case I forgot one. I’ve had numerous similar experiences when the verses from 1 Corinthians have been used to frame the communion experience. Paul’s context At first glance, Paul’s exhortation to “examine yourselves” seems to be a catch-all command that leaves no wiggle room: every sin must be confessed, under threat of illness. But in the broader context of chapter 11, there’s a more specific narrative at work. Divisions (v. 18) are the source of Paul’s criticism. The chief offence was turning communion – which is supposed to be a celebration of hospitality and inclusion within the church body – into an experience of hostility, disunity and exclusion. Paul’s reprimand is based on a situation in which people came to the table for their own benefit, the well off gorging themselves even though they
had food at home, and getting drunk, thereby “humiliating those who have nothing” (v. 22). Paul’s concern is that we “be reverent and courteous with one another. If you’re so hungry that you can’t wait to be served, go home and get a sandwich. But by no means risk turning this Meal into an eating and drinking binge or a family squabble. It is a spiritual meal – a love feast” (v. 33–34, The Message). Perfection not required Despite my apprehension, I’ve always dared to take communion. However, I’ve had whispered
Jesus invites us to come to him in spite of our myriad imperfections – known and unknown. conversations with people following the service who, heads hung low, said they refrained from partaking because they didn’t want to risk drinking and eating in an unworthy manner. In their minds, the communion leader had unintentionally set a standard for participation based on people’s behaviour – that we need to be good and worthy and repentant enough to partake. This distresses me because it turns the meaning of communion on its head. If we misunderstand Paul’s command, communion becomes
1 Corinthians 11:27–30 So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup. For those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgment on themselves. That is why many among you are weak and sick, and a number of you have fallen asleep. 12
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a nerve-inducing experience based on fear of not measuring up rather than a celebration of Jesus living the perfect life on our behalf. Jesus invites us to come to him in spite of our myriad imperfections (known and unknown) for he always creates a place at his table for those who genuinely seek him. Christ bids us come with glad and sincere hearts for the forgiveness he has won for a people who could never have secured it for themselves. As we approach the communion table, the question is not whether we’re free from sin (who is?) but
whether we accept the forgiveness of Jesus as represented in the elements. If so, let us partake gratefully. And as we do, let’s give thanks for our declaration of spiritual kinship with others in the room. Let’s give thanks for the times we have witnessed unity, hospitality and inclusion at work within our faith community. And may that spirit of gratitude remind us each time we celebrate communion to work for the unity of his church, to give to others as they have need and to value others as members of Jesus’ body – his church – for whom he died. Kevin O’Coin is pastor of community life at The Meeting Place in Winnipeg, where he worships with his wife Breanne and son Jacob.
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SIMPLE
TOOLS
to build faith in children
NIKKI LANIGAN
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don’t anticipate my children will concoct scientific learning labs in the kitchen to reinforce the Bible passage they’ve read for the day. Nor do I expect that one will stack couch cushions to build the walls of Jericho while the other unearths Dad’s trumpet from his ’80s glory days to blow the wall down. As parents, we desire creative ideas for bringing faith into the home; however only the most imaginative thinkers (with similarly gifted children) will have the time or mental energy to do this. Children need to know that practising faith is often quiet, reflective and expressive. But parents have to make it happen. Northview Community Church hosted the Transform Conference, Jan. 17–18, 2014, where Mark Holmen of Faith@Home shared some distressing statistics: though teens say by far the greatest spiritual influencers in their lives are their parents, _ only 27% have experienced either family devotions, prayer or Bible reading within the home, _ only 28% have talked about faith with their mom, _ and only 13% with their dad. “Spiritual training best happens within dayto-day family life,” teaches the MB Confession of Faith, heeding Deuteronomy 6:1–25, which stresses the importance of remembering the loving commands and provision of the Lord. What does that look like with children? Here are some of my keep-it-simple strategies.
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Read the Bible. Devotionals are great, but they often don’t go beyond morals-based teaching. Reading full Bible passages plants the stories into the child’s mind, allowing children to gain an understanding of the narrative of Scripture, and more importantly, the character, actions and person of God. Pray. Prayer should be heartfelt and honest. Teach your children ACTS: adoration, confession, thanksgiving and supplication. When life is far from simple and we don’t know what to pray for, let your child know the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans (Romans 8:26). Demonstrate that you can write your prayers, draw your prayers, walk or dance your prayers, and pray through music or poetry.
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Give. Teach children about tithes and offerings. My sister-in-law has three piggy banks for each of her children labelled “God,” “Savings” and “Spending.” For every dollar earned, each jar gets its designated percentage. If you’re grocery shopping with young children, buy something for the sole purpose of putting it in the food bank box after checking out. From your example, children will learn generosity and that everything they have comes from God.
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Memorize Scripture. For some this is easy; others break out in hives at the thought of it! My eldest son can memorize after simply reading a verse, but with my youngest, we make up actions or put the words to a familiar melody. Even if the words aren’t learned perfectly, the truth of the passage will stay in the child’s heart and mind (Proverbs 22:6). God will bring these words to mind when the child needs a particular truth in his or her life. There are many simple ways to teach your children to fear the Lord your God and keep his commands. Do what makes sense for the children you love, and don’t burden yourself with guilt. As a pastor I know once said, “The one thing you do this week is better than the nothing you did last week.” Once you start, it will become habit. Soon, you’ll be encouraging another family to bring faith into their home. Nikki Lanigan attends Northview Community Church, Abbotsford, B.C. She serves at Northwest Baptist Seminary and directed the Transform Conference sponsored by Northwest Baptist Seminary, Awana and FamilyLife Canada. MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD April 2014
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what makes a
MISSIONARY
FAMILY?
K ARL A BR AUN
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t was a simple choice that set an unexpected life trajectory which guides a family on mission into the third generation. In the 1960s, a newly-minted U.S. Mennonite teacher chose voluntary service with the Mennonite Brethren – teaching high school in Colombia – as conscientious objection to the U.S. army. Some five decades later, Harold Ens is retired from a missionary career that included service in DR Congo and Panama, and as mission administrator, first of Latin America, then as general director of the international MB agency. Now he and Helen watch their three children and families serve God: Carmen and her husband Andy Owen, in Thailand
long-term; Lowell and his wife Melissa completing a three-year term in Peru; and Matt and his wife Anne, nurturing a church plant in California. So what turns one man’s choice into a generational family business?
Discipleship Though Harold and Helen are the first to carry the title “missionary,” the family legacy of mission-heartedness doesn’t start with them. Growing up on a farm in Dinuba, Cal., Harold watched his father develop chapels for farm workers and spend many a Sunday preaching to Dustbowl families. “I was exposed to this whole idea of mission in my childhood through my dad’s work, but I
never thought that’s what I was going to do,” he says with a laugh. In rural Kansas, Helen’s parents always hosted travelling missionaries, opening a door to the world for a girl living in a culturally homogenous community. “They thought a lot of missionaries,” she says, and they encouraged her to serve an eye-opening summer term with Mennonite Central Committee in Washington D.C. as a young woman. From their respective locations, Harold and Helen chose to join the Christian service team in Cali, Colombia, once they had graduated with their teaching certification – and the rest is history. Married shortly after their return to the U.S., they soon followed their sense of God’s leading abroad again when they were apprised of need for a math teacher (Harold’s field) in the mission-founded American school in DR Congo. Once their four-year term was completed, they were ready to come back and “begin the American dream…but God worked in our hearts.” They’d settled into jobs and a house in a mountain town in California, but they felt God asking, “What are you doing here?” Still calling themselves teachers, not missionaries, they prayed together and tentatively sent applications to MB Mission. The Ens family landed in Panama City, Panama, taking a supporting role to the indigenous churches. “Growing up in Panama really gave [the children] a picture of mission,” says Harold. Lowell, Carmen and Matt learned by watching and doing. At the Indian centre in Panama City
where Harold and Helen ministered to youth from Embera and Wounaan tribes, preteen Carmen’s tasks involved making popsicles or preparing crafts for the children. She recalls “feeling it was a privilege to be there with my folks, being involved in what they were doing.” Lowell, who remembers accompanying his father on trips to the jungle, now takes one of his own children with him when his work in Peru involves visiting churches a 6–10 hour bus ride away. “These trips are a highlight,” he says. The children have learned to appreciate the Peruvians who are so different from them. “They love the people even in those rural churches.” In their church planting activities in Thailand, Carmen and Andy gave their boys responsibility, some sort of engagement, “even if just befriending a new child,” says Carmen. “We tried to bring them alongside, so they were part of what we were doing.” The Owens are now working in member care where the children are less involved, but son Connor, who starred in MB Mission’s multimedia children’s curriculum on Thailand, says, “I consider myself a missionary; it’s hard to think about life as being something else.”
youth group at the third. So that was where the family went together. Similarly, the Owens make decisions as a family. Even with big decisions like moving, “we ask [the children] to pray and hear from the Lord,” says Carmen. This flows naturally out of searching God’s Word together. “Morning devotions were just a standard for our family,” says Harold, and Carmen has continued the tradition at the other end of the day. “Even if it’s really late, we share what the Lord has done in that day and pray about the hard things,” says Carmen. “We share highs and lows every day at dinner [too], and that becomes an opportunity to talk about how God is at work around us, both transforming us and using us to impact others for his glory.” It rubs off. “It’s really impacted me,” says Connor. “It’s been good to have a regular rhythm of reading the Bible and talking about it with [my parents].”
Hospitality “Our home was always open to people,” says Helen. While in Panama, several indigenous Panamanian students lived with the family for periods of several weeks to two years. “I think of those guys as my older brothers,” says Lowell. Discernment Other times, couples undergoing When the Enses returned to marriage counselling would stay the U.S. for Harold to take up the over. Back on U.S. soil, “we would mantle of administrator for the Latin invite anyone we found,” says Helen. American field, “We tried to be sensiMatt says, “I experienced the tive to our children – how will we help heart of discipleship first-hand.” He our children grow, and be discipled watched his parents adopt spiritual and have friends in Christian comchildren as they trained, empowered munity,” says Harold. In Hillsboro, and promoted the next generation Kan., where they settled, there were of local leaders in Panama. “The three MB churches (two with ties to platform was anywhere the people Helen’s family), but before Harold had were: the indigenous church, our a chance to check them out, Carmen Mitsubishi minivan, our kitchen and Lowell had been drawn in by the table.” Even after returning to the MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD April 2014
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PHOTO: COURTESY HAROLD ENS
The whole Ens clan in 2010, the last time they were all together in the same place.
States, he saw that “going out from church walls was how kingdom impact happened.” Though it never left Lowell’s heart to return overseas, he and Melissa worked in the marketplace for many years before heading to Peru. However, that didn’t prevent their children from having childhood experiences that gave them a broader sense of the world. Toby and Mikaela both attended dual-immersion school in Fresno, so were already fluent in Spanish before arriving in Peru.
Prayer In every sphere of life, but particularly in full-time ministry, “the prayer piece is so crucial,” Lowell says. He notes how his prayer life has changed: “it’s less a morning devotions thing and more of a constant communication.” Canadian missionary nurse Herta Voth modelled this for the Ens family in Panama. “She taught us and the kids that the first thing was prayer and then the injection,” says Harold. Lowell has learned that it’s not only his own prayers but those of others that have impact. “It’s become crucial to send out newsletters,” he says. “We almost sit there and wait for people to respond. All they have to do is write back and say ‘We’re praying for you’…. That’s what I need to know. We can sense when people are praying for us.” 16
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“We should have been robbed by now, we should have been mugged; it’s only by the grace of God and people who have prayed for us,” he says. And in the really tough times, like when young son Timothy contracted multiple infections and landed up in the hospital, “when you don’t know how to pray, the body of Christ comes around you – knowing they are praying for you; it’s such an amazing experience.” In his years in mission administration, Harold crisscrossed the globe and visited hundreds of North American MB churches. He’s taken planes, trains, and automobiles aplenty, and all the danger that comes with travel – international and domestic. “It’s only by God’s grace I’m here for retirement,” he says. “Many times in churches where I’d go for mission conferences, in the back, people would stop me and say, ‘Just want to let you know we pray for you every day….’ There were hundreds that had me on their prayer list.” Carmen has received “countless” emails saying ‘We’re praying for you,’ and seen her name on a particular calendar date. “So often it coincides with a very specific need or impact season,” she says. “We see how clearly the Lord is speaking to his faithful prayer warriors. We don’t have to be proximally close. He knows our needs before we ask. He’s already raised up people to stand in the gap.” Humbled and encouraged, she appreciates those who also pray “for the people we have grown to love,
the hearts we have seen open to the gospel. It feels so not alone.” Harold recalls the joy of the news that Carmen’s language helper, for whom he and Helen had prayed for years, had opened her heart to Jesus. “It’s the Lord’s timing,” says Carmen. “He is orchestrating. He loves prayer because it brings his picture in our world, helps us see so much more clearly his heavenly agenda.” Just recently, Carmen says, the prison where she leads a Bible study allowed a baptism for the young women inmates whose lives had been transformed. “My heart and my hope is it will encourage people who are praying that they would know God is hearing them pray, not just about people who are here but about a global team working together to see his kingdom come.” Lowell values prayer support above all. “When we were fundraising, I told people ‘it’s great if you help our financial needs, but I’d rather you just pray for us. God’s got the money;…if you will commit to pray for us, I know that God will take care of the rest.’”
Sacrifice Overseas work is full of variety and adventure – and risk and sacrifice. When young Helen and Harold left for DR Congo, Helen’s mother said, “I know you want to follow God, but don’t you think he could use you a little closer to home?” They laughed at the time, but when Carmen left for Thailand with 8-month-old Connor, Harold and Helen “experienced that feeling of loss.” But, Helen says, “We felt it was better for them to be where God is calling them than close by.” Sometimes the tough things are unexpected. Returning to the States when Harold took a job in administration was actually “the most difficult cross-cultural experience.” In cosmopolitan Panama City, the children daily moved between three cultures (American expatriates, Hispanic Panamanians, indigenous Wounaan and Embera) with ease. Relocating to Hillsboro, a town of 3,000, “the children said, ‘where are the stoplights?’” says Harold. Lowell found it bizarre there was only one black person in the entire town. “I remember my high school friends looking at me, thinking ‘poor missionary kid.’ I was looking at them the same way!” His adjustment to U.S. life was rough; now Lowell has watched his children struggle in Peru. Despite Lowell and Melissa’s best intentions to immerse their children in the culture, the school’s system of rote learning was so ill-suited to the children that Melissa ended up home-schooling. Lacking opportunities to know either local or expatriate peers, Mikaela, Toby and Timothy especially “miss deep friendships” with children they can understand at a profound level. With a clear call to mission from the time she was 15, Carmen’s choices were filtered through that sense of direction: “I remember a real unsettledness,
I consistently felt this urge in my heart to go [on mission],” she says. Seeing deep-seated despair and fear in the eyes of her host family on short-term service to Thailand, Carmen’s call was confirmed as she heard God saying to her, “This is a people with no hope. Will you come back and give them hope?” Debriefing her trip later, she resolved, “If you [God] ask me to be a single old missionary in a hut telling my Thai mom and dad about you, I will do it.” In the end, she did go into the field with a family, but learned there were challenges in that as well. Three months into her 10-year commitment to Thailand, she recalls calling out to the Lord saying “‘God, I did not sign up for this!’ – in context of ‘what did I think I was doing bringing my family to the mission field!?’” When her young son came home from Thai nursery school saying Buddhist prayers, she had to trust that “God’s promises for my children are the same: he will never leave or forsake us; he’s called us and will finish the work he began.” God’s faithfulness is where the story starts and ends. “It’s been the best of all worlds if I look back now over 13 years raising my children overseas,” says Carmen. “The Lord has blessed us.” Lowell says, “Mission has been such a part of us. I have no regrets for having followed God’s call to Peru. It has been a risk-taking adventure for all of us. Peru will always be part of our hearts.” Even as he brings his family home to the U.S., he trusts his children will have an inheritance of mission as he did. “Things of this world don’t have the same value to us as they do for other people. We’re building up stores in heaven.” He sees himself in a sending role, supporting missions through prayer and finances and encouraging others, even families, to try short-term experiences. “I would rather put $500 toward a mission trip for Christmas than give presents,” he says. “I’m convinced that every believer is called to be a leader for Jesus – a person of kingdom influence,” says Matt. “We have different expressions, different platforms, but the same call to ‘go and make disciples.’” Anyone can raise missional-minded children by “grabbing the opportunities you’ve got,” says Helen. “Encourage multicultural exposure,” says Harold. “Learn another language. Have people in your home who are not like you. If you can travel, go into other cultures.” Even in North America, parents can stretch their children’s understanding of the world. “If there’s a missionary coming to your area, bring them home, let them get to know your kids,” says Helen. “[In your own city], get outside your comfort zone so your kids can know there are other precious people besides your own kind.” ] MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD April 2014
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GAP YEAR for GOD The risk, prayer and faith of discipleship programs The “gap year” – when a young person takes time to travel and experience new things during the period between graduating high school and starting university – has been an established rite of passage for Europeans for decades and is increasing in popularity among Canadians. Mennonite Brethren schools in Canada offer programs that give young people the new experiences and friendship-building opportunities of a gap year under the parent-reassuring guidance of mentors and teachers, in programs designed to foster faith development. Participants in MB colleges’ discipleship programs aren’t just finding themselves and making lifelong friendships; they’re building their relationship with God. K ARL A BR AUN
God in the stillness More than 10 years ago, Canadian Mennonite University launched a School of Discipleship, later renamed Outtatown: an eight-month program of instruction, service, travel and experiential learning with the purpose of awakening youth to radical faith in Jesus. The four-month French Africa track was added in 2011. Cecely Doerksen knew she was headed to CMU (where her father is a professor) after high school, but “I needed a break from school [after Grade 12],” she says. CMU’s Outtatown French Africa program fit the bill. Starting in Winnipeg’s French Quarter, the group spent time with hosts in Quebec City and Montreal, retreated to Camp Peniel, spent several weeks in Burkina Faso, West Africa, seeing all parts of the country before heading to Paris, then wrapping up in the Taizé community in Burgundy, France. The word hectic could be applied to the four-month program, but it taught Doerksen to slow down. “We often go at God with requests in our prayers,” she says, but “my perspective changed to listen and be quiet.” That listening went beyond hearing: “You don’t have to understand [what others are saying], and you can still feel God just as much.” Living in close quarters with fellow students where there was no chance to “turn on” image management, “I learned about my
strengths and weaknesses,” Doerksen says, and she learned to appreciate the support and accountability of the team. The group encouraged each other as they encountered grinding poverty, openly shared their faith stories, learned to see the world through the eyes of people with a different set of problems and confronted their own idols. A talented musician, Doerksen fasted from music for a time while she struggled to reconcile her greatest avenue of worship with her greatest temptation to make things about herself. Doerksen also learned about interdependence in the body of Christ, especially in Burkina Faso where the small minority Christian Mennonite churches “were super-dependent on each other” as they worked to build the kingdom of God together. And Doerksen learned that dependence on God “is crucial.” There were moments when everything was out of their control; the only thing they could do was “give it to God…. It’s humbling.” But it wasn’t always tough. After hiking to a waterfall in Burkina Faso with “the most breathtaking view,” the team was deluged by
Cecely Doerksen in Burkina Faso
a warm rainstorm. “I stretched out my hand,” she said, and in that moment, “I have never been more certain that God is real. It was one of the best moments of my life.”
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Set apart for Jesus The newest in Columbia Bible College’s suite of one-year programs, Praxis is designed for students who are socially minded, artistically inclined and culturally engaged. With a focus on the integration of faith, community and culture in urban settings, the program includes a 10-day trip to New York City. “I have been around Christianity my whole life, but it wasn’t that real for me until I went to Pines Bible Camp,” says Jesse Zak. “After that, I started taking my faith much more seriously.” After graduating from high school, the next step for this pastor’s son was Bible school, Columbia Bible College, to be specific, where he was directed to the brandnew Praxis program as a good fit for his personality. “In-class learning is important, but I was really looking for the community aspect,” he says. He found that – and more. Learning both about and in cities in the loving embrace of the Praxis community, Zak is becoming less
Gospel as good medicine In its second year, Expérience 19/24 at École de théologie évangélique de Montréal (ETEM) takes students through several months of team-building, classroom instruction and city exploration, followed by a local church internship, then an international mission experience. Newly graduated RN Andie Joseph had only one year of studies left to receive her bachelor of nursing certification, but she thought, “Maybe I should take some time, do some experience with God.” Because her father is a pastor and church planter, Joseph had always been involved in church and was baptized at 15, declaring her faith her own. But the Haitian immigrant to Montreal “felt lost for a few months” after her mother died of cancer in 2012. She couldn’t pray and was questioning why God allowed things to happen as they did. Enter ETEM’s Expérience 19/24. The four students in the 2013–2014 year are a closeknit group supported by the teachers and mentors in not only learning about their theology but practising their faith. Following several months of learning together, Joseph interned in her church, Assemblée de Grace, with the children’s and youth ministries, and will complete the program with international mission, likely to North Africa with MB Mission, in summer.
“intimidated by a bunch of people.” Evangelism “is a smoother conversation than I thought it would be. I always thought evangelism was going up to people and showing them the Bible,” says Zak. “Praxis has taught me to get to know people, and invest in them, and once I do, there’s trust. Then I can ask them about faith.” Before coming to Columbia, Zak “didn’t think I was much of a pray-er.” But now, having learned there are lots of different ways to pray, “not just dry stuff,” he’s “realized how beneficial prayer is” not only in his personal life but also in ministry. “It’s something that can really break lots of barriers. My prayer life has increased significantly since I’ve come here. I’ve realized how much power prayer has and how underused it is within Christian society today.”
“When you go to church you listen to the preacher and you get the message,” she says, but “when you have to practise it yourself, getting [the Word of God] involved in your life – that’s changing me.” She’s begun regularly meditating through prayer and reading the Bible for transformation – not only on her own, but also with her family. “I’m learning a lot about God, about his holiness,” she says. Discovery has also come through fellow students and the people at her church. “You’re learning by hearing other people; your faith grows when you hear stories about what other people experience with God.”
Praxis visits Big Apple
Jesse Zak (r) in conversation with a Praxis teammate
Prayer has girded Zak as he is thrown into new roles where he has had to let go of fear of what others think while also becoming aware of his responsibility as a leader: someone others may look up to. “I want to live a Christian life, I want to be set apart from people, I don’t want to just blend in. I want to demonstrate what being a Christian is like.” “I’ve turned over a new leaf since coming here. Praxis and CBC have played a huge role in me developing into the person I am today.”
Building a stronger base of theological understanding and deeper relationship with God has given her more boldness in taking risks and sharing her faith. Through Expérience 19/24, she’s learning to “bring the gospel everywhere I go.” “I always had the heart to become a missionary,” she says. With her nursing skills and desire to minister the gospel, she feels called “not only [to] care for people in a medical perspective but also in a spiritual perspective.” “It’s one of the best decisions I ever made,” says Joseph of signing up for Expérience 19/24. “It helped me a lot.”
A new Columbia Bible College diploma program that focuses on mission in urban settings took seven students to New York for an up-close look. David Warkentin, program head of the Praxis course, led the students through a variety of memorable experiences Feb. 20–Mar. 2. “It was exciting to be able to extend what we have been studying and experiencing in the program.” But Warkentin says relationships became the theme in the variety of settings they visited. “Working alongside a group of men from Indiana with Mennonite Disaster Service and meeting hurricane survivors was probably the highlight of the trip for the students,” says Warkentin. The
group also visited the MCC United Nations office and heard personal stories relating to social justice, especially homelessness. “We also got a neighbourhood tour with a church planter from Trinity Grace Church, a network of parish churches,” says Warkentin. “It was inspiring to see leaders so passionate about their neighbours and community.” The itinerary covered the buildings and culture of the city, too – a setting “full of creativity,” says Warkentin. And before coming back to B.C., they paid a visit to a Broadway show. The Praxis motto is “Take your faith where culture is shaped.” And they did!—Barrie McMaster, B.C. correspondent MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD April 2014
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N E W S in brief Safe place for MKs
A resource and advocacy organization for former missionary children and third-culture children who experienced trauma has launched in Canada. Missionary Kids Safety Net (mksafetynet.net) creates a supportive community among MKs and calls mission organizations and supporting churches to establish justice and healing, especially in cases where the church has wounded its own children. “We are also eager to work in co-operation with mission agencies, denominations and schools with strong connections to missions to help establish protocols for reporting and investigating abuse,” says Beverly Shellrude Thompson, MK Safety Net Canada’s president emeritus.—Canadian Christian News Service
First MB Pygmy school
In 2013, the first MB Pygmy primary school opened to a crowd of 200 children. Mama Makeka House of Hope, a U.S.- and DR Congo-based NGO directed by former MB Mission worker Pakisa Tshimika, channelled a small grant to bolster their limited supplies. Several Pygmy leaders have trained in the MB Bible school in Kikwit, DR Congo, and returned to serve their marginalized community.—ICOMB Global Education Newsletter
MDS’s super storm response
Mennonite Disaster Service was honoured for its work in Hurricane Sandy relief at the New York Disaster Interfaith Services (NYDIS) annual meeting Jan. 9, 2014. The award praised MDS’s “leadership and dedication to Superstorm Sandy survivors and victims’ families and for your rebuild partnership with the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation and NYDIS.” MDS has 2 projects responding to Sandy’s damage in New York City. MDS is also rebuilding what Sandy destroyed in Sayreville, N.J., and Crisfield, Md.—MDS release
Travelling North America to see Japan
Yoshio Fujii is this year’s recipient of the Mennonite Brethren Historical Commission’s archival internship. Yoshio will spend 5 weeks visiting each of the MB archives in North America (Fresno, Hillsboro, Winnipeg and Abbotsford) from May–June 2014. In addition to receiving archival experience, Yoshio will study stories and images related to the church in Japan. Yoshio is a Japanese student completing an MDiv in May at Fresno (Cal.) Pacific Biblical Seminary.—MBHC release
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Bethany adds voice to Saskatchewan schools
Five Saskatchewan schools are uniting to promote the credibility of theological education. Bethany College, Hepburn; Nipawin Bible College; Millar College of the Bible, Pambrun; Horizon College, Saskatoon; and Briercrest College and Seminary, Caronport, formed the Saskatchewan Association of Theological Colleges (SATC). In addition to presenting a united voice to the ministry of education, the association will promote quality standards, diversity and the exchange of best practices.—Bethany College release
Namesake shuttered, but satellite strong
Within months of a fundraising campaign to expand its second campus in Chilliwack, B.C., an MB church has ended Sunday services at its original campus in the residential Promontory district. The decision to merge Promontory Ministries’s 2 campuses was forced by the loss of the church’s tenant, Liquidation World, in the building purchased 2 years ago from the discount retailer. Liquidation World’s U.S. owners announced closure of all its stores just as the Chilliwack franchise was to sign a new lease with Promontory Ministries’s Main Street campus. Lead pastor Shawn Vandop says Main Street Church was subsidizing the Hillside campus and can no longer do so without the rental income. Church leadership decided to merge the 2 services into the downtown building, effective immediately, while plans proceed to expand facilities within the former retail space.—Barrie McMaster, B.C. correspondent
Generosity advances USMB church planting
The U.S. MB conference ended its 2013 fiscal year with a surplus that will allow it to move forward in 2014 with its aggressive vision to plant 6 new churches a year for the next 10 years. “We are deeply thankful that significant fundraising efforts by both Don Morris, Mission USA director, and Ed Boschman, USMB executive director, resulted in generosity by God’s people and partner churches,” says leadership board chair Steve Schroeder.—USMB release
Parlez-vous Mennonite?
To develop and promote French-language Anabaptist theological education, the Francophone Mennonite Network consultation on theological education and leadership training Feb. 26–28, 2014, in Kinshasa, DR Congo, gathered representatives from Benin, Burkina Faso, DR Congo, Ivory Coast,
Chad, France, Switzerland, Canada and the U.S. Since few French-speaking seminarylevel schools exist, teachers from Mennonite and non-Mennonite schools where Mennonites train were invited to discuss how to include Anabaptist perspectives.— Mennonite World Conference
For richer or poorer
The Institute of Marriage and Family Canada released an analysis of Statistics Canada data entitled “The Marriage Gap between Rich and Poor Canadians: How Canadians are split into haves and have-nots along marriage lines.” In 2011, married couples were found in 86 percent of high-income families and only 12 percent of low-income families. This “marriage gap” has widened since 1976 as marriage stayed popular among the wealthy but lost ground with mid to low income earners through the 1980s and 1990s. In 1998, marriage rates began to rebound among young, lower and middle income groups. The research didn’t determine whether marriage creates wealth or the wealthy get married.—IMFC release
Ukraine’s pastor president
Oleksandr Turchynov, acting president of Ukraine who took office Feb. 23, 2014, is a well-known Baptist pastor and honest leader. Sergey Rakhuba, head of U.S.-based Russian Ministries, says, “The evangelical church is excited about Turchynov’s sudden unanimous appointment.” “Our first task today is to stop the confrontation,” says Turchynov, “to ensure peace and tranquility, to prevent new victims, local rivalries and lynchings. Another priority is returning to European integration.”—Christianity Today
Violence interrupts food supply lines
Hundreds of thousands of people have been displaced by conflict in South Sudan, the world’s newest country. After voting to separate from its northern neighbour three years ago, the country was in a fragile state of peace until December 2013, when fighting broke out between government forces and rebels. An estimated 716,200 people have fled their homes and an additional 156,800 into neighbouring countries. In areas of South Sudan where hunger can be anticipated, aid agencies and local government typically ship food in advance of need – ensuring food arrives at its destination before rainy season washes out roads. This year’s widespread violence is complicating that process. The Foodgrains Bank asks Canadians to remember people suffering from ongoing violence in South Sudan in prayer and to pray for a swift and peaceful end to the conflict.—Canadian Foodgrains Bank release
WINNIPEG
A Bible for every home
N
orman Brown’s goal: to distribute the Plautdietsch (Low German) Bible free of charge to every home in Bolivia. Since Kindred Productions released De Bibel in 2003, the Winnipegger has handed out more than 8,000 copies. One of the first Bolivian Mennonites to whom Brown gave a Plautdietsch Bible was a man who spent most of his time in bars while his wife struggled to provide for their family. When he accepted Jesus, “his thirst switched to the Word of God, and he began to treat his family with love and respect,” says Brown. Brown began ministering to Plautdietsch-speakers in 1994 when Power to Change (formerly Campus Crusade for Christ) placed him in charge of the newly translated Plautdietsch JESUS film. Brown and his wife Dorothy – who’d both grown up with the language but hadn’t spoken it for years – sensed God’s call and began re-immersion by doing nightly devotions together in Plautdietsch. The 75,000 Plautdietschspeaking Mennonites living in 75 colonies in Bolivia are among the most traditional, travelling with horse and buggy and
wearing straw hats and bib overalls. Their ancestors left Canada for Mexico in the 1920s. Lacking biblical training and fearing corruption from the world, when evangelical teaching came to Mexico, the most conservative Mennonites moved to the Chaco and East Paraguay and from there to Bolivia in 1953. While owning a Bible isn’t prohibited, the colony leaders fear “too much learning just confuses people,” says Brown. Peter Friesen, Power to Change’s ministry director in Bolivia, says the only way to get the gospel to the people is through Plautdietsch. Brown explains, “Most of the Plautdietsch people only comprehend approximately 20 percent of what they read in German.” Their children attend six years of school in German; then they are qualified to teach others. Brown compares their proficiency in German to the level of French in most Canadian children. “The need for Plautdietsch material cannot be overstated,” says Brown. In Bolivia, a man who’d received a Bible six years earlier asked Brown to meet him. “Since then, he’d read it carefully every day, and just recently, he had
WINNIPEG
I think I can’t…but God can Ultramarathon cyclist’s biography launched
F
undraiser for orphans. Ultramarathon cyclist. Guinness World Record holder. But grandfather of eight Arvid Loewen sees himself as an ordinary person. Joy Smith, MP for KildonanSt. Paul, summed up Arvid at the Feb. 19, 2014, launch of Arvid’s biography, When Quitting is Not an Option: “Don’t give up.” Open mic time with the book’s author and subject at North Kildonan MB Church, Winnipeg, was
preceded by screening a documentary filmed by Todd Cantelon at Race Across America (RAAM) 2013. A hardscrabble immigrant kid from Paraguay, Arvid rose to success in semi-professional soccer and business, but at mid-life, two things led him to dedicate himself to raising money for Nairobi’s Mully Children’s Family: he fell in love with endurance cycling and had his heart broken by a Kenyan orphan named Charity.
understood that he needed to invite Jesus to be his Saviour.” The man brought his quest ions (for w h ic h c hu rc h leaders had excommunicated him), and the two searched Scripture together. “ Now, he prays daily for the Norman Brown (r) gives a Bible and MP3 player to leaders of the cola Mennonite in Santa Cruz, Bolivia. ony,” says Brown, “and he takes every opportunity to Free Church, the Evangelical Menshare the gospel with friends and nonite Mission Church and Trans neighbours.” World Radio. The Plautdietsch translation When someone accepts a was a joint project between the Bible, Brown asks if they know United Bible Society and Kindred whether they’ll spend eternity Productions. To date, Kindred with God, and if they could be Productions has sold 27,118 sure, would they want to be. The Plautdietsch Bibles and 20,602 answer to the latter is almost New Testaments. always “yes.” That opens the door Because about 30 percent to share Scriptures of assurance: of Plautdietsch people in South “Whoever has the Son has life; America are functionally illiterate, whoever does not have the Son Power to Change collaborates with of God does not have life. I write Family Life Network to provide these things to you who believe the New Testament on MP3 players. “We cannot meet the demand in the name of the Son of God so because the cost of producing it is that you may know that you have eternal life” (1 John 5:12–13). still quite high,” says Brown. Some say, “That is not the way Brown has made 20 trips to South America to show the JESUS we have it over here. We all hope film and distribute the Bibles, with to be saved one day,” but the most Bolivia as his focus. He works common responses are “Where through the local churches and does it say that?” and “That is very missions, particularly Evangelical clear!”—Angeline Schellenberg Arvid’s story is told in his own voice through the writing of his son Paul Loewen, who says, “I wanted to tell a story...of defeat and failure and success.” Paul didn’t shy away from Arvid’s defeats: the first chapter recounts Arvid’s failure to complete RAAM in 2008. In his darkest moment, Arvid’s prayer changed from God, help me do this, to God, I can’t do this. Surrendering himself to rely on God’s strength means “I am no longer responsible for the outcome,” Arvid says. “I’m only responsible to do my best.” Cycling across Canada in less time than some take to drive it, barely able to keep his caloric
intake in line with his energy output and living off two hours of sleep a night, Arvid is familiar with the desire to give up. But, “I’ve reached the bottom of the barrel and realized it’s only the beginning.” God – and hundreds of Kenyan children like Charity – keep Arvid going. He kept his faith quiet during his soccer years, but now Arvid is eager to share his source of life. “Eighteen years ago, I thought, if cycling will create a platform to share my faith, I’ll do it.” It has and he does. “We’re all capable of more,” says Paul. “My dad has challenged me. There’s more each and every one of us can do.”—Karla Braun MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD April 2014
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PHOTO: DOROTHY BROWN
N E W S in stor y
WINNIPEG
CMBS “a godsend” for Anglicans
I
“ can’t imagine what we would
have done without the hospitality you showed us here,” Gloria Romaniuk, archivist at the Anglican Diocese of Rupert’s Land, said to Jon Isaak, director of Winnipeg’s Centre for MB Studies (CMBS) at a thank-you tea Feb. 26, 2014. Romaniuk was already negotiating an agreement for long-term storage in CMBS’s vault when renovation to the diocesan building created an urgent need for temporary off-site storage of archival materials over spring and summer 2013. CMBS “stepped into the breach.” Romaniuk and several volunteers returned to CMBS to thank Isaak and the Centre with the presentation of a quilted wall hanging, story-sharing and snacks.
Shortly after several metres of boxes moved to CMBS in 2013, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) asked the Diocese of Rupert’s Land for a review of exactly those holdings. CMBS opened its vault doors and the Centre’s workspace for a team of volunteers who came from the diocese every Wednesday in summer 2013 to uncover information relating to the Indian Residential School experience. In the Centre’s spacious and well-lit reading room, the volunteers perused sacramental records, annual reports, synod journal reports, newspaper articles, photographs and personal records. Then they scanned and processed
the information following the TRC guidelines. “It’s been a godsend,” said John Deacon, synod registrar, who joked the Centre’s space was so hospitable to the work that “we’ve had a hard time getting everybody back.” With the diocese office renovations complete, CMBS’s temperatu recontrolled vault continues to house some diocesan materials, including handwritten church record books dating back to the 1820s. “We have been given t his g i f t,” sa id Isaa k, referring to the Centre’s customdesigned vault built in 2005, one of the newest in the province. “This building is a resource; why not find ways to share it?” “We felt genuine warmth and kindness from each and every
PHOTO: LAURA KALMAR
N E W S in stor y
Quilter Isla Marsh and Jon Isaak display a wall hanging presented to CMBS.
staff member on all occasions,” said Romaniuk. “They always took time to encourage us in our records in a spirit of true Christian fellowship.”—Karla Braun
D E LTA , B . C .
A
Delta, B.C., church has raised $30,000 for its community’s hospice over the last four years. Almost half of that sum was raised last December in a single, recordbreaking event. Ceda r Pa rk MB Church decided in 2007 to abandon their traditional Christmas banquet and do something new. This is a story of relatively small beginnings followed by year-by-year growth of an event that reaches out to community members and gives to a local cause. The event that replaced the banquet is simple – with a few extras. Cedar Park offers an enjoyable evening of music and desserts just prior to Christmas. Ticket selling is intentionally targeted beyond Cedar Park members, and event proceeds are donated to a local charity. 22
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One of the extras is a Christmas CD featuring the year’s banquet performer. Music production professional and Cedar Park member Roy Salmond supervises the recording project with a threeperson committee. CD sales yield some $2,000 per year. In its first year, the reworked event net ted about $1, 50 0, directed to a community program for single-parents, says original committee chair Brad Funk. In the second year, the evening raised $2,000 toward an inter-church fund for people in need. Year three set the current pattern. That year, Delta’s new hospice opened, and Cedar Park was there financially: the music and dessert evening raised $4,000. The CD featured singer Ruth McGillvray and pianist Nelson Boschman (now pastor of
PHOTO: CONRAD LOEWEN
Cedar Park helps hospice
Cedar Park members serve a banquet in support of local hospice.
downtown Vancouver’s Artisan MB church plant). Funk says it now seems like a Cedar Park tradition to sell the CDs as an integral part of the December fundraising project, and to do it at the Ladner liquor store and supermarkets. Associate pastor Dan Forest says it’s a great way to invite the community into church at Christmastime. He adds that ticket sales in local stores account for about half of the event’s annual audience, so there is outreach potential as well as financial support. The amazing part of last December’s story started at such a ticket booth. A gentleman
asked about the event. Forest says the man was so touched by the project that he offered to match the proceeds, dollar for dollar. Word spread, so instead of selling just over 100 tickets, the church sold 220. Proceeds of the event featuring pianist Carol Peters were $7,000. The donor was as good as his word, so the pre-Christmas dessert and music night provided $14,000 for the Delta Hospice Society – almost half of the $30,000 that Cedar Park has contributed to that society to date.—Barrie McMaster, B.C. correspondent
Who are you bringing to
GATHERING 2014?
P
eople often assume Crossroads MB is a large church, b ut the we ll - represente d 100-member fellowship in Winnipeg merely sends its full quota of delegates to conference events. “If just the pastor goes, how is the wonderful stuff that happened at
convention going to trickle down to the congregation?” says pastor Marvin Dyck. He invites delegates to report to the congregation in the Sunday service. “People respond when their gifts of leadership are acknowledged,” says Ruth Schellenberg
about Fort Garry MB Church’s culture of asking young people to attend conferences. The Winnipeg pastor of children’s ministry says the benefits go both ways: “It’s important for the health of our conference that all voices are heard” and “that young leaders see seasoned leaders in action.” At Bethany College, Hepburn, Sask., “it’s important to us that students see God’s people gathered, engaging fully in issues that matter to them,” says Darlene Klassen, internship coordinator and church ministries instructor. Bethany faculty and staff encourage students to participate in conference events by “clearing barriers – helping to cover transportation and accommodation costs and giving students the options of using conference attendance and reflections as credit toward courses.” “I get asked each time how my pastor convinced me to come, how I was managing to stay
awake and why on earth I was there,” says 22-year-old Janessa Hiebert of her numerous conference experiences. It saddens her that people expect her age group to be uninterested. The Crossroads member considers it a privilege to represent her congregation and experience Canada-wide unity. National events like Gathering “further encourage how I feel the MB church tries to be an equal and non-hierarchical community – where I as a single, young woman am as much a part of the decision-making process as any other member.” Hiebert says her generation’s engagement is directly tied to what others expect from them: “If we’re given responsibility and trust, we will rise to the occasion.” This year’s national MB Gathering is June 11–14 in Vancouver (www.gathering.mennonitebrethren.ca). Who are you bringing?—Angeline Schellenberg
MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD April 2014
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FA M I LY news
TR ANSITIONS Church Anniversary Fairview Mennonite Brethren Church, St. Catharines, Ont., celebrates its 50th anniversary May 31–June 1, 2014. A desire to use English as the language of worship led 157 members from Scott Street MB Church to charter the new congregation in 1963. John Andres, John Unger and Walter Unger were founding leaders. Harvey Gossen was the first full-time pastor. A meeting house was completed in 1964, a parsonage built in 1965 and a gymnasium added in 1968. The congregation innovated with open-air drive-in services 1966–1980, “dial-a-meditation” ministry 1969–1978, and a community nursery school 1978–1987, and they partnered with Grantham MB to plant Fairview-Louth, now Southridge Community Church, in 1980. Currently, the congregation runs a bimonthly English café for international students and new immigrants, offers care ministries, including visitation and prayer shawls, and collaborates with Scott Street and Grantham MB churches on youth ministry. The congregation of 236 members is led by a pastoral team in collaboration with the leadership team.
got news? Contact kbraun@mbconf.ca with pastoral transition and church anniversary information.
Resourcing Churches Developing Leaders appointed Merv Boschman to the contract position of camping ministries coach (national) in February 2014. He will coach, mentor and facilitate regular gatherings for the 11 Mennonite Brethren camp directors. Merv previously served the BCMB conference as camp ministries director. Youth pastor since 2008, Mark Hunt completing his term at Port Rowan (Ont.) MB Church in spring 2014. He will continue to serve in the church while moving into full-time beekeeping as an owner/operator. The Journey, Ottawa, was officially accepted into the Ontario Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches at convention 2014. The Journey was planted by Dave Harder with conference support in February 2009. Organized under a parish approach, the congregation assembles in geographically contextualized groups: Ottawa South (meets at Old Ottawa South Community Centre) and Manotick (St. Leonard High School), and plans to multiply a parish in fall 2014.
BIRTHS BUTLIN – to Dan & Alana of Calgary, a son, Reuben Joseph, Feb. 3, 2014.
SAWATSKY – to Ryan & Rachael of Killarney, Man., a daughter, Felicity Jane, Jan. 26, 2014.
DRIEDGER – to Darin & Samantha of Winkler, Man., a son, Cade Ryland, Feb. 4, 2014.
SCHEER – to Kevin & Jennalee (Ratzlaff) of Abbotsford, B.C., a daughter, Brynlee Anna, Jan. 16, 2014.
HANSON – to Braden & Tenille of Dalmeny, Sask., a son, David William, Dec. 21, 2013.
WAGLER – to Phil & Jennifer of Surrey, B.C., a daughter, Abigail Malena Elizabeth, Feb. 6, 2014.
JANZEN – to Marlen & Carrie of Dalmeny, Sask., a daughter, Lexie Rae, Dec. 31, 2013. KELLER – to Evan & Jill of Brandon, Man., a daughter, Brynn Avery, Dec. 31, 2013.
WEDDING atthew M KORNELSEN of Thompson, Man., & Aimee YORKE of Stonewall, Man., Aug. 12, 2013.
Savin g a child Throughout Moldova, Ukraine and Romania, more than 70,000 children live in state homes often in poor repair because the governments can’t afford to keep the houses in good and safe condition. Throughout the region, many thousands more children are abandoned or orphaned; alone, unprotected, homeless and walking the streets. Many of these kids are kidnapped and forced into the sex trade. According to one CNN report, 75% of the sex workers in the Netherlands at the moment originate from Eastern European countries such as Romania. These are children we want to save and need your help to do it. These children need our love and support, often for lengthy periods. We ask that you prayerfully consider sponsoring one of these children today. For just $32.00 a month, the equivalent of a coffee a day, you can bring hope, the love of God and light into the life of an abandoned, at-risk child. A gift of sponsorship will help us provide emotional, physical and spiritual help to these deserving children.
Ministering to 24
April 2014
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MISSION WITHOUT BORDERS
For more information or to begin a child sponsorship please call us toll free at 1-800-494-4454 Or visit our website at www.mwbca.org
Invest in God’s Kingdom!
planned GIVING
When you make a planned gift to MB Mission, your inheritance is being invested in reaching the lost and in passing on an eternal inheritance to those who are without the hope of Christ. Consider today how you might want to give. Your gifts through wills and estates can be arranged through MB Mission directly, or through the MB Foundation in the United States or the Mennonite Foundation in Canada. Call us today at 1.888.964.7627 or visit us at mbmission.org
MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD  April 2014
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laina
Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies Restorative Justice, Youth Ministry & Theatre Arts
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Fairview MB Church will be celebrating its 50th Anniversary May 31, 2014 and June 1, 2014 Featured speakers: Saturday Evening: Michael Krause
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GATHERING 2014 GATHERING 2014 MULTIPLYING FOR MISSION MULTIPLYING FOR MISSION
Canadian Mennonite Brethren will gather in Vancouver at The Centre for Gathering 2014, June 11–14, 2014. Three dynamic speakers will inspire and challenge us with our mission to multiply. Bruce Enns, lead pastor, Forest Grove Community Church, Saskatoon Bruce a child of the King. He has served in pastoral ministry at Forest Grove Community Church since 2000. Bruce began as young adults pastor and moved into the lead pastor role in 2004. Bruce loves sports and coaching. He was the director of athletics and recreation at Columbia Bible College until 1998. Bruce has a heart for mission and currently serves on the board for MB Mission. Bruce and Lisa have been married 25 years and live in Saskatoon with their four daughters. Norm Funk, lead pastor, Westside Church, Vancouver Norm is a Jesus follower who is the planter and lead pastor of Westside Church, a multi-campus congregation that currently meets in Downtown Vancouver and on the North Shore, and has, over the past five years, planted Reality Vancouver and Christ City Church. Norm serves as chair of the C2C Network B.C. and national boards. Norm has been married to Nicole for 19 years and they have two sons. Willy Reimer, executive director, Canadian Conference of MB Churches Executive director of CCMBC since 2011, Willy was previously known to the Canadian MB community for his service as national moderator 2006–2008 and his oversight of Ministry Advantage, a leadership coaching program for pastors. Willy was the founding pastor of SunWest Christian Fellowship (MB) in Calgary where he served as lead pastor for the next 15 years. Willy and his wife Gwen live in Calgary and have three sons.
For more information visit www.gathering.mennonitebrethren.ca
WINTER ESCAPE or RETIREMENT LIVING
Enjoy Canada’s best weather White Rock... BC’s seaside village
THE CENTRE, VANCOUVER B.C. JUNE 11 - 14, 2014
40 minutes south of Vancouver
Condos priced from $150,000
Join THE us in CENTRE, Vancouver VANCOUVER as we explore how weJUNE can multiply reach of B.C. 11 - 14,the 2014 our churches and shape our mission as Canadian Mennonite Brethren. Join us in Vancouver as we explore how we can multiply the reach of our churches and shape our mission as Canadian Mennonite Brethren. P: (888) 669-6575 E: mpenner@mbconf.ca mennonitebrethren.ca
Contact Ron Wall or Trevor Brucki
P: (888) 669-6575 E: mpenner@mbconf.ca mennonitebrethren.ca
White Rock Baptist Village Condos Faith-based community
1.800.226.8693 info@BCpropertySource.ca www.BaptistVillageCondos.ca
MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD April 2014
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Faith-filled
Community
Dynamic
University
CANADIAN MENNONITE UNIVERSITY
cmu.ca
KVI
ymn ing Theme: Resurrection
Ruth Ens Sing-a-long Leader Dean Pollard & Matt Neufeld
g.dirksen@shaw.ca Helping you find your way home... in Winnipeg
DAVID UNRUH 204-453-7653 Schoenfelder Male Octet david@unruhrealestate.ca www.unruhrealestate.ca
Sunday, April 6, 6:00 p.m. Eastview Community Church 3500 DeVries Ave. Winnipeg, MB
Visual report on youth camps in the former Soviet Union by Dave Loewen
FOR YOUR NEXT MOVE Admission: Offering for KVI Camps
Re/Max
Saskatoon
Tedd Epp
www.teddepp.com 306 221 1614 28
April 2014 
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Coffee & Dessert $5
www.kvicanada.org
C H U R C H S TA FF Lead Pastor Vauxhall (Alta.) MB Church is prayerfully seeking a lead pastor who loves the Lord, his Word and his people. Vauxhall MB is a congregation of about 150 people in a town of 1,000. We are a rural community church that serves a radius of approximately 50 km. We desire a pastor with strong expository preaching skills. We are also looking for someone who is able to work with a team; we have a full-time associate pastor and a parttime office administrator. Visit www.vauxhallmbchurch.com to learn more about us. Send resumes via email to chrissiemensfarm@gmail.com.
Youth Pastor “Plus”
Cariboo Bethel Church is now taking applications for youth pastor “plus.” We are located in Williams Lake, B.C. Our city of 11,000 acts as a hub, serving an additional 30,000 in the central interior region of this beautiful province. Bethel is a Christ-centred, Spirit-led faith family of more than 250 people, with a multichurch youth group of 40–60 attendees (age 13–18) and a volunteer core of 15–20 youth and adults. This will be a full-time, custom-designed position serving alongside the lead pastor as a key partner on our church leadership team. The person God is calling to join us will primarily develop discipleship and ministry among young people. In addition, this person will contribute to the greater mission of our church by serving in another area of ministry according to gifts, experience and passion (i.e., worship, children and families, local mission or camp ministry). Interested? Please strike up a conversation with us in an email to alison_brown22@yahoo.ca. We can send you a full job description and a summary of who we are as a church family.
Lead Pastor-teacher
Highland MB Church, Calgary, has come through a time of transitional ministry and is now looking for a lead pastor-teacher who will be a discipler-equipper in order that the congregation will be built up. We desire to grow in every way more and more like Christ Jesus our Lord. We desire that every congregant be equipped to do the work for which God has gifted them as we all accomplish God’s mission for us, so that the whole body will increasingly become healthy, growing and full of love. See our website for more details: www.hmbc. ca/employment.
Pastor
Selkirk (Man.) Community Church is seeking a pastor for our congregation, which is diverse in age and culture and has an attendance of about 70. We are looking for a pastor to help shape and challenge us in authentic community with God and with the greater Selkirk area. We are
seeking someone who will connect well with our church family and in our neighbourhoods. Selkirk is a growing and welcoming community with all the necessary amenities. Situated on the banks of the Red River (20 minutes north of Winnipeg, Man.), this city of more than 11,000 is also located 30 minutes from Lake Winnipeg with its abundance of beaches and recreational activities. For more information in confidence, please contact Gary at 204-757-2358 or gary@exceed-analysis .com. We look forward to your reply. Stay thirsty.
English Ministry Pastor
Pacific Grace Mandarin Church, Burnaby, B.C., is prayerfully seeking an English ministry pastor who loves the Lord, the Word and God’s people. PGMC English ministry is a group of 20–25 young adults and youth that formed out of the Mandarin congregation of 150 people. You will be responsible to the church leadership team, working under the supervision of the senior pastor. You will enjoy connecting with young people from diverse cultural backgrounds. Responsibilities: preaching and worship ministry, development and implementation of strategies to equip and encourage young adults for Christian living, student outreach, Sunday school and youth fellowship. Contact: pgmc@pgmc.bc.ca, Rev. Leo Chia.
Senior Pastor
La Crete Christian Fellowship is seeking candidates to fill the role of senior pastor. LCCF is located in a farming/logging community in northern Alberta. We are a multi-generational congregation with a strong commitment to missions. Our average Sunday attendance is 450. The senior pastor would be a team member working with the associate pastor, youth pastor, office staff, lay minister and a large, supportive ministerial. The pastor would have appropriate Bible college education and preferably a number of years of pastoral experience. The pastor would agree with the EMC statement of faith and church practices. More information can be found at www.lccfc.ca. Please contact Darryl Olson @ darrylwolson@gmail.com or 780-821-0287 if you can serve together with us in this capacity.
CLASSIFIEDS CAMP STAFF Seeking Christian summer staff for underprivileged kids camp: Brightwood Ranch is a Christian camp for kids from single parent, foster and group homes. Start dates: 1-, 2- and 4-month positions
available. Salary plus room and board. Positions include: counsellors, program directors, wranglers, kitchen, secretary, lifeguard, nurses. w w w. h o p e m i s s i o n . co m / summercamp. Email: bright. wood@hopemission.com
COMING EVENTS Pastors Credentialing Orientation June 9–11, 2014 ACTS (located on the campus of Trinity Western University), Langley, B.C. for information on PCO including online registration visit pco.mennonitebrethren.ca
Gathering 2014 June 11–14, 2014 The Centre, Vancouver, B.C. for information on Gathering 2014 including online registration visit gathering.mennonitebrethren.ca
www.mennonitebrethren.ca MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD April 2014
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Finish lines
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.—2 Timothy 4:7
Grace Zacharias June 1, 1953–Aug. 30, 2013
BIRTHPLACE: Altona, Man. PARENTS: Peter H. & Tina Hiebert MARRIAGE: Ed Zacharias, Sept. 21, 1975 BAPTISM: Horndean (Man.) MB, Aug. 27, 1967 CHURCH: Glencross EMMC, Morden, Man. FAMILY: Ed; children Rhonda (Mel) Wiebe, Marla (José Luis) Sanca; mother; 1 sister
Grace grew up in a loving Christian home. At 6, she received Jesus into her life. She attended Winkler (Man.) Bible Institute, where she met Ed. Grace worked at Salisbury House, Winnipeg; and at Salem Home, Winkler, as a nurses’ aide and an activity director. She loved being a full-time mom and homemaker. Tending her garden, co-piloting the combine with Ed and camping with family were treasured times. She enjoyed sewing, scrapbooking and crafting. In 1986, Grace became ill with Wilson’s, a hereditary liver disease. A liver transplant in 1987 gave her another 26 years with her family. Heart problems limited her physical activity. Grace received a pacemaker/defibrillator in 2002. Daily personal time with God was her priority. She loved to serve her church through Sunday school and ladies’ ministry. A weakened heart confined her to bed her final 8 months, and she died following a heart attack. Grace’s gift of encouragement touched many people.
Edward 35 years, retiring in 1989. She returned to Vancouver for holidays, and finally, to live with her sisters. She was “Granny Annie” at Richmond Bethel’s Awana Club and Celebrate Recovery group and at Pinegrove Home for seniors, where she shared her talent for words. She loved writing poetry about her siblings and her dog. Her wit was evident even in her short-term dementia. Anne could recite Scripture in her last 2 years in the nursing homes.
Lydia Regehr Duerksen Oct. 28, 1928–Nov. 6, 2013
BIRTHPLACE: Steinbach, Man. PARENTS: Abram & Elizabeth Regehr BAPTISM: Steinbach (Man.) MB, 1945 FAMILY: children Ruth, Laura, David, Richard, Bernard, Carolyn, Cathryn; 15 grandchildren; great-grandchildren
Lydia was baptized in the sand pit in Ste. Anne, Man. Because of her love for children, she courageously went to college at age 57 to earn her Early Childhood Education certificate. She then worked in preschool education until retirement. Lydia’s steadfast faith in Christ sustained her through many struggles. Before she died in Vancouver, her last words to her children were “But God takes precedence.”
Ron Robertson Anne Neufeld
BIRTHPLACE: South Olgafeld, Ukraine PARENTS: John & Katherina Neufeld BAPTISM: 1939 CHURCH: Port Edward; Richmond Bethel FAMILY: 3 nieces & 7 nephews
Anne’s family immigrated to Drake, Sask., in 1926. Anne accepted Jesus as Saviour in 1935. She lost her mother in 1942. The next year, her sister asked her to help in B.C. Anne attended Bible school in Yarrow, B.C., then finished Grades 9–13 in 3 years. She took normal school in 1950. Anne desired to be a missionary. With her friend Anne Isaak, she taught 2 years in Port Essington, B.C. Then, in Port Edward, B.C., they started a church, Sunday school, youth group and Bible study. She treated people of all cultures with respect. The Anne Neufeld Tot Park in Port Edward was named in her honour in 1967. She taught in Port
After watching the JESUS film, Ron realized what Jesus did for him personally on the cross so he could have forgiveness of sin and eternal life. Ron began volunteering at Union Gospel Mission, Winnipeg. He was soon offered a fulltime position and joyfully served wherever needed, including managing the Family Life Center. When Ron took early retirement, he and Linda volunteered at Deer Lodge, reading Scripture and praying with residents and sitting with them in their last hours. Ron served faithfully as a deacon at Salem Church. He and Linda were best friends.
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When Annie was 3, her sister died as the family immigrated to Canada. Annie’s family lived in Manitoba and Saskatchewan before settling on a farm in Abbotsford, B.C., until her father’s retirement in 1960. Annie’s daughter Edith Anne was born Apr. 5, 1965. Annie chose not to work, instead dedicating her life to caring for her parents and raising her daughter. Her father died in 1969 and her mother in 1974. In the 1970s, she found great joy teaching Sunday school to people with intellectual disabilities. Annie was hit by a car just before her 71st birthday. In 1996, when her ICBC case was settled, she bought a house in Clinton, B.C., where she lived on her own 14 years. She was active in the church and enjoyed the trees and birds in her yard. In 2010, Annie was diagnosed with dementia and moved in with her daughter in Abbotsford. In 2012, they moved to Chilliwack, B.C., and grandson Wesley returned from Ontario to help with her care. They shared a home until November 2013, when Annie fell ill with pneumonia.
Peter Hildebrand BIRTHPLACE: Winnipeg PARENTS: Ben & Ivy Robertson MARRIAGE: Linda Wills, 1979 BAPTISM: Winnipeg, November 1990 CHURCH: Salem, Winnipeg FAMILY: Linda; daughter Paula (Gene) Walterson; stepson Norm Kinash; 1 granddaughter
April 2014
BIRTHPLACE: Margenau, Ukraine PARENTS: Johan & Anna (Penner) Janzen BAPTISM: May 28, 1922 CHURCH: Clearbrook MB, Abbotsford, B.C. FAMILY: daughter Edith; 1 grandson; 1 greatgranddaughter
May 2, 1949–Nov. 8, 2013
Aug. 4, 1927–Oct. 1, 2013
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Annie Janzen May 28, 1922–Nov. 24, 2013
May 16, 1944–Dec. 30, 2013
BIRTHPLACE: Neepawa, Man. PARENTS: Peter & Martha (Wiens) Hildebrand MARRIAGE: Wilma Unger, 1964 BAPTISM: Port Rowan (Ont.) MB, 1962 FAMILY: Wilma; children Darren (Donna), Roxanne Coulombe (Kris); 4 grandchildren; stepmother Susan Hildebrand; 4 siblings
Peter was 4 when his mother died. His dad married Susan Neuman, and Peter became an older brother to 4. He accepted Christ as Saviour in his youth and attended Winkler (Man.) Bible Institute. Peter served Port Rowan (Ont.) MB Church as Sunday school teacher, Sunday school treasurer and choir member. He took his children to Elim Lodge in the summer and on trips to Florida. Peter and Wilma enjoyed the past 9 summers at Triple C Bible Camp, Simcoe, Ont.
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In 2005, Peter was diagnosed with rare T-cell lymphoma. Following treatments, he was cancerfree. Peter and Wilma sold the farm and moved to a retirement community in Port Rowan, where he had time to fish, garden, can and cook. In 2012, cancer returned. Despite 12 months of rigorous treatment, he entered hospital Dec. 23.
Cornelius (Neil) Friesen Sept. 1, 1936–Jan. 8, 2014
BIRTHPLACE: Gretna, Man. PARENTS: Cornelius & Helen (Heinrichs) Friesen MARRIAGE: Louise (Lucy) Konrad, Aug. 4, 1962 BAPTISM: Gospel Mennonite, Winnipeg, 1960 CHURCH: EMMC; Clearbrook MB, Abbotsford, B.C. FAMILY: Louise; daughters Julie, Karla; 1 sister
for her until her move into full-time care Dec. 31, 2009. Brenda’s faith walk began at 20 in the Roman Catholic church. Later, a friend introduced her to Crossroads MB Church, Winnipeg, where Brenda contributed to Bible studies, mission work, retreats and baking projects for Habitat for Humanity. Even in health problems, she smiled because she knew Jesus was at her side. She was 31 years sober. Brenda loved Christmas; her scooter was decorated for each holiday. At Deer Lodge, Brenda was an eager volunteer, natural evangelist and loyal friend.
Jacob Peter Nickel Sept. 17, 1921–Jan. 13, 2014
BIRTHPLACE: Markovka, Russia PARENTS: Peter & Elizabeth Nickel MARRIAGE: Lydia CHURCH: Tofield (Alta.) Mennonite FAMILY: Lydia; 8 children; 22 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren
A roommate at Mennonite Collegiate Institute, Gretna, Man., led Neil to the Lord in Grade 12. Singing was Neil’s favourite activity. After graduation, Neil sensed a call to service. He studied at Steinbach (Man.) Bible College (SBC); Jacob immigrated to Canada in 1929, settling in MB Bible College (MBBC), Winnipeg; Tabor Coaldale, Alta. He farmed in Tofield, Alta., until College, Hillsboro, Kan.; Fresno (Cal.) State retirement. College; San Jose (Cal.) State College; and MB Biblical Seminary, Fresno; earning BTh, BA and BD degrees. He married fellow MBBC student Anna Giesbrecht Louise after graduation. Neil taught 5 years at Neufeld SBC. Their next 8 years were in Chilliwack, B.C. In 1979, Neil became the first full-time teacher at Oct. 1, 1956–Jan. 15, 2014 a Bible school training Mennonites from Mexico in Aylmer, Ont. After 29 years, Neil and Louise retired to Abbotsford, B.C., where they joined BIRTHPLACE: Loma Plata, Paraguay Louise’s home church, Clearbrook MB. Neil was PARENTS: Johan & Helena Harder active in the German, English and male choirs. MARRIAGE: George Neufeld, 1979 He was a loving husband and a father who made BAPTISM: 1972 time for his girls and many children he “adopted” CHURCH: Highland MB, Calgary in his ministry. FAMILY: George; sons Raymond, Robert; 6 siblings
Brenda Margaret Batting May 3, 1953–Jan. 10, 2014 BIRTHPLACE: Winnipeg PARENTS: Gordon & Gertrude Bonnett BAPTISM: Crossroads MB, Winnipeg, Sept. 4, 2000 FAMILY: children Jayme-Lyn Chuckry, Matthew
Brenda was adopted at a young age and grew up in Winnipeg and Rorketon, Man. She worked as short-order cook and trained as a nurse’s aide. Brenda completed a police officer course, but her health didn’t allow her to fulfill this dream. She married in Edmonton. Due to medical conditions, Brenda was unable to provide for her children and thought it in their best interests to place them in foster care. When they turned 18, they moved back with Brenda and cared
Anna was outgoing and compassionate. She loved animals and the outdoors. In 1973, she met George. They moved to Canada with their first son in 1983. Anna struggled with mental illness in later years but was always kind and ready to listen to anyone who needed her. Anna won her first bout with breast cancer, but it came back and hit her hard. When she found out it was inoperable, she made peace with death. Right before she died, she looked at her husband and then out the window as if to greet her Saviour Jesus.
MARRIAGE: Paul Poetker, Nov. 7, 1948 BAPTISM: Coaldale (Alta.) MB. CHURCH: Greenfield Baptist, Edmonton FAMILY: Paul; children Sharon (Jamie), Clarence, Albert (Pam), David (Monika), Corinne (Manfred), Katherine (Brian), Lillian (Dave); 15 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; 1 sister
Mary’s family came to Canada in 1926, settling in Coaldale, Alta., where she became a Christian and was baptized. She attended Coaldale Bible School and MB Bible College, Winnipeg. Mary and Paul lived in B.C., where Paul taught school until 1959, and in 1962, they moved to Edmonton. Kind and compassionate, Mary was a wonderful mother, grandmother and greatgrandmother with a great sense of humour. She was a stay-at-home mother who enjoyed painting, cooking, gardening and quilting. Mary loved the Lord and taught Sunday school, and one year, a weekly Christian education class in public school. She also enjoyed travelling, first with the family and later with Paul to South America, the U.S., northern Canada, Germany and Scotland. Despite health issues, she remained positive and embraced life. Her family was her greatest legacy.
Albert Falk May 21, 1923–Jan. 24, 2014
BIRTHPLACE: Kronsweide, Ukraine PARENTS: Wilhelm & Katherina Falk MARRIAGE: Nettie Neufeld, 1950 CHURCH: Bridgeway, Swift Current, Sask. FAMILY: Nettie; children Jeanette (Ed) Schmidt, Roland (Bette), Gary (Theresa), Ken (Arlene), Pat (Ron) Poetker; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; 2 siblings
Albert’s family immigrated to Herbert, Sask., in 1925. During the war, he stayed home to work the farm and returned to complete Grade 12 in 1947. Albert and Nettie raised 5 children a few miles from his parents’ farm. In 1980, they moved into Herbert, where Albert worked as administrator of the Herbert Senior Home 8 years. Albert volunteered on many committees and boards. He learned about God from his parents and grew in faith. He realized his relationship with God was more about God’s love for him than what he could do for God: “When I stand before God, it is only by God’s grace that I stand there at all.”
Mary Poetker May 13, 1920–Jan. 23, 1914
BIRTHPLACE: Aliessovo, Ukraine PARENTS: Jacob P. & Tina Dueck MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD April 2014
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CURRENTLY on screen
Jesus for today Son of God presents gospel on the silver screen Son of God MARK BURNETT AND ROMA DOWNEY, PRODUCERS 20th Century Fox
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hrough the ages, followers of Jesus have longed to look into the eyes of the one who came from heaven. After all, the pages of the Bible record what Jesus said, but not how he said it. What was his posture as he confronted the Pharisees? What were the inflections in his voice as he delivered the Sermon on the Mount? We struggle to apply Jesus’ teaching to our lives when we don’t know the context of what he is talking about. To combat the limitations of text, pastors try to educate people about the foreign world of first-century Palestine. However, as explanations from theologians and anthropologists become increasingly academic, the average person trying to make a way through the worries of this world loses interest. Additionally, many begin to doubt Christianity amid criticism over sexual ethics and public debates on cosmology. With the recent success of “The Bible” miniseries on the History channel, Hollywood has succeeded where many pastors only dream: they have caused the average person to pause, lean in and listen to the biblical narrative. The latest in this rising tide of Bible-based film projects is Son of God, a 138-minute movie presentation of the story of Jesus. Some may balk at the idea of packaging the person and message of Jesus on the same screen used for entertainment. Consider, however, that since 1979, missionaries have used the JESUS film with great success to help Jesus come alive for people who have never read the Bible. That film is used in the developing world to this day. Yet, to North American audiences used to big budget productions that 32
April 2014
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make aliens, robots and superheroes seem realistic, the production value of the JESUS film is laughable. To be taken seriously, any film about Jesus must be made for the current generation’s level of expectation for a mainstream film. Son of God steps into this breach. The spirit of the story Bible readers will quickly notice the creative liberties the writers took with the text to create this film. The producers explain the intention was to create a film that carried the spirit of the story, not a word-for-word recreation of the New Testament. This is understandable as it would be cumbersome and lengthy to create such a film; however, it leads to some awkward moments. For example, instead of responding to his disciples’ fascination with the temple by prophesying its destruction, Jesus stoops down and happily tells a random child that no two stones of the building they are in will be left standing. This would be horrific to a child in that setting – and was so obviously misplaced that some people laughed out loud in the theatre as the scene ended. Son of God was highly anticipated as it was to be presented by the same
creators of the high-quality “The Bible” miniseries. What was not expected was that the producers would use the exact same footage from the TV series for the film. If you have viewed the miniseries, you have literally watched the Son of God movie in full – scene for scene. The only difference is that the narration explaining Jewish systems, unseen tensions and historical settings was removed, leaving those without a working knowledge of biblical history open to confusion. This is unfortunate as it seems opposite to the desired outcome for the project. All-in-all, this film has value. It is likely to be used for sermon illustrations for years to come. It will also be a conversation starter about Jesus – even if people are talking about their criticism of the film. However, if you are looking for an opportunity to look into the eyes of the Son of God and have his teachings come to life, stick with the book. It’s way better. Danny Ferguson is area director for Youth Unlimited (Youth For Christ) in Langley, B.C., a graduate of Columbia Bible College and attends Jericho Ridge Community Church. He loves being a husband to April and father to Joe, Avery, Micah, Caleb. Danny blogs at www.proyouthworker.com.
Read the full-length reviews online under Arts & Culture at www.mbherald.com
CURRENT books Revolutionary Christian Citizenship JOHN HOWARD YODER, edited by JOHN C. NUGENT, BRANSON L. PARLER, ANDY ALEXIS-BAKER MennoMedia he Yoder for Everyone series aims to make the teachings of Anabaptist theologian John Howard Yoder available to the average reader. The second book in the series, Revolutionary Christian Citizenship addresses the role of the church within the broader context of democracy and pertains particularly to pacifism. Though the book is rooted in the U.S. context, its strength is that Yoder always brings issues back to the life and teachings of Christ. We must reclaim the significance of that phrase: Jesus is Lord! Of our lives, yes, but also in our politics.—Spencer Nikkel, Bethany College
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Text and Context: Church Planting in Canada in Post-Christendom
permission to be imperfect. The award for most liberating book of 2013 goes to Mother of the Year.—Angeline Schellenberg
Strangers at My Door: A True Story of Finding Jesus in Unexpected Guests JONATHAN WILSON-HARTGROVE Zondervan onathan Wilson-Hartgrove’s Strangers at My Door is a book of stories, a book of history and a deeply theological book, but it is also an invitation to see Jesus in your neighbours. Having dedicated his life to seeing Jesus in people most of us would consider outcasts, WilsonHartgrove here invites us to see how it has saved his life. If you’re looking for a manual to help you start a hospitality house, you won’t find a step-bystep process or an appendix filled with helpful documents. But you will discover a theological framework and a real sense of the joys and struggles inherent in living a life where strangers become beloved friends.—Rachel Twigg Boyce, House Blend Ministries
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On stage and screen Vancouver performance company Pacific Theatre celebrates its 30th anniversary with its 2013–2014 season. Pacific Theatre “exists to serve Christ in our community by creating excellent theatre with artistic, spiritual, relational and financial integrity.” In Old Time Gospel Radio Hour, part of the Artistic Director’s series, Vancouver’s bluegrass favourites Viper Central join Pacific Theatre artistic director Ron Reed in an onstage celebration in the spirit of Tent Meeting and Cotton Patch Gospel, in the style of Prairie Home Companion. Apr. 9–12, 2014.
LEONARD HJALMARSON Urban Loft Publishers aradigm shifts aren’t new, even in the church. Throughout history, the pendulum has swung from one perspective on faith, theology, mission, church life and ecclesiology to its opposite. Text and Context tells the stories of a mosaic of Canadian faith communities. These accounts testify to creative and innovative thinking in the church in Canada today as faith communities and their leaders adjust to the new reality of a post-Christian age of skepticism toward faith and religion.—Chris Douglas, C2C Network, B.C.
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Mother of the Year and other Elusive Awards KALYN FALK Create Space Independent Publishing Platform hen Kalyn Falk was explaining to a TV reporter why her son jumped in the river, beginning with “our house burned down six weeks ago,” she realized she’d need a whole book. This is a raw, honest look at the humour and heartbreak of raising a child with profound autism. A Winnipeg spiritual director, Falk offers parents of all stripes
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Intersection
of faith & life
Life in the Angry Era PHIL WAG LER
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’m not on Facebook. It’s a conscious choice to maintain my sanity and keep me from one more snaring distraction. I know, I know; I’ve heard and considered all the arguments for being “relevant,” “connected” and “with it.” Perhaps I’m just a nonconformist. Perhaps I’ve just got my head in the sand. Then again, when I am privy to the occasional social media conversation through my better half, I find myself in agreement with columnist Gordon Clark of Vancouver’s The Province, who has decided to start calling it “antisocial media.” Recently, my wife and I followed a conversation on Facebook regarding that horrible online drinking “game,” Neknomination (which is proving once again that people are not simply messy but occasionally downright stupid). The online banter between people who could have literally driven down the road to debate over coffee, even among kin who eat together, degenerated into profanity between child and parent and into a bashing of churches and their legions of hypocrites. What began as the impassioned concern of an adult for youth not to do something disastrous unravelled into anger and belligerence – and this among people who presumably care for one another. Vitriol cocktail Susan Whitbourne, a University of Massachusetts Amherst psychology professor, calls anger “the dominant socially expressed emotion” of our era. This is rather bizarre given that the dominant social value of tolerance should presumably lead us in the other direction. Instead, it seems that tolerance (i.e., you need to put up with me) combined with the unquestioned freedom of individual rights and a detached communication tool like social media produces a vitriol cocktail. Which takes us back to Gordon Clark’s newspaper musings: 34
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“Too often, no one will apologize, back down or even listen to the other party’s point of view. Instead, the popular tactic in today’s Age of Narcissism is to aggressively defend our positions, as if conceding a point to the other side makes us lose. We’re more interested in ‘winning’ than in resolving disputes, which we are also far too quick to get into with others.” In an age where self trumps all, there can be next to no genuine dialogue about truth. This justifies pure anger and antisocial behaviour when we’ve been wronged or had our feelings hurt because someone has confronted the
opportunity to shine like stars. The apostle Paul reminds the Romans that it is the kindness of God that leads to repentance (Romans 2:4). God’s anger against sin is turned toward himself. We who are swift to judge and foam at the mouth should recall that kindness is powerful. It is what changed our hearts and should ultimately change the way Christians live in the Angry Era. Could it be that the opposite of being angry is not actually being happy, but being kind? And, what would happen if the followers of Jesus would be known as the
We have come to believe it is our right to never lose, which makes true community impossible, truth truly irrelevant and temper tantrums inevitable. small kingdoms we now rule over. This disturbing and dark undercurrent shapes our politics (which rarely involves true debate), our moralities (where we now claim justification to dehumanize those who don’t cheer our choices) and even our closest relationships (where a child demeans parents for the world to see). No one can be corrected, challenged or engaged in true debate without rage rising within us. It’s like playing a game with a child who throws a fit if they lose. We have come to believe it is our right to never lose, which makes true community impossible, truth truly irrelevant and temper tantrums inevitable. Shine like stars How then shall we live? At the risk of being over-simplistic, I am increasingly convinced the church of God in Western society has an almost unprecedented
most kind of all, since that most beautifully reflects our Father in heaven? How might this shape our conversations with those who disagree with our convictions? How might this shape the way we function as churches: communities that certainly must become the crucible for unlearning our angry ways, not simply justifying them with God-speak? How might a mission of kindness – not just random acts thereof – become our way of life in an antisocial age that is becoming SlapInTheFaceBook? Phil Wagler is married to Jen, is the father of six, a pastor with Gracepoint Community Church, Surrey, B.C., and author of Kingdom Culture.
MONDAY
Executive board meeting MB Mission Ingrid Reichard, BFL secretary BFL Christy Clark, BC Premier
Translation team
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TUESDAY Church multiplication conference C2C Network Executive board meeting MB Mission Gord Fleming, national director
28 CCMBC
Nancy Boese, executive board
21 ICOMB
Visas to enter Angola
14 C2C Network
7
WEDNESDAY Church multiplication conference C2C Network Ministry Lift conference MBBS Canada
2
9
30
23
16
Transitional pastors network RCDL CFO, communications director search
29 CCMBC
Ministry staff
22 CCMBC
15
8
1
THURSDAY
BCMB
Credentialing interviews
BFL
Pastoral letter writing team
BFL
BFL meeting
RCDL
Gospel coach training
CCMBC PRAYER CALENDAR SUNDAY
Mission capacity building ICOMB
Palm Sunday
Easter Sunday Convocation
CMU
3
10
17
24
25
18
11
4
MBBS Canada
Ninety students
CBC, Bethany College
Commencement services
AEFMQ
Quebec MB conference convention
CCMBC
Executive board meeting
SATURDAY
APRIL 2014
FRIDAY
Executive board meeting CCMBC
Executive board meeting SCMBC
Good Friday
Gathering 2014 planning team CCMBC
Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. Mark 11:24 Go to mennonitebrethren.ca for the full prayer guide.
5
12
19
26
35
MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD  April 2014
36
April 2014 
www.mbherald.com