Mennonite Brethren Herald August 2014

Farewell to Stewardship reps

W W W. M B H E R A L D.CO M

CCMBC’s new mission statement

HANDY PRAYER CALENDAR

SPECIAL

CONVENTION COVERAGE

A U G U S T 2 014

GATHERING 2014 EDITOR’S

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TOP

INTERVIEW WITH

KAROLYN BURCH C2C’s newest addition

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WILLY WONDERS:

DO YOU LOVE

THE CHURCH Volume 53, No. 8

Publications mail registration number: 09648; Agreement number: 40009297

GATHERING 2014 MULTIPLYING FOR MISSION

Brian Cooper

11 Jun

@BDRCooper THE CENTRE, VANCOUVER B.C. JUNE 11 - 14, 2014 Join us in Vancouver as we explore how we can reach of Christians have fled themultiply city intheour our churches and shape our mission as Canadian Mennonite Brethren.

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elcome to CCMBC’s mission conference!” cars. We need to return to the city So began Gathering 2014 at The Centre in Vancouver, with a welcome from P: (888) 669-6575 on E: mpenner@mbconf.ca mennonitebrethren.ca our knees. #mytakeaway executive director Willy Reimer. “We are a mission agency, and our mission field is #ccmbcevents all of Canada.”

June 11–14, some 250 delegates, guests and staff gathered in the heart of one of Canada’s largest metropolitan centres with an invitation to “be the church on

David Warkentin @Warkd

12 Jun

@benyamen @BDRCooper I’ve found the issue isn’t so much urban/rural but rather our mindset towards culture in general. #ccmbcevents

mission in the heart of the city.”

Reimer said he was excited to be in Vancouver for CCMBC’s biennial convention, noting the Canadian church is primarily suburban even though the city is ripe for harvest.

“Christians have lost the battle for the city because they have moved out of the city. To love the city, you have to be in the city.”

For Gathering 2014 reports, see pages 10–19. For videos, blogs, photo galleries and more, go to www.gathering.mennonitebrethren.ca

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August 2014 www.mbherald.com

GATHERING 2014 10 CCMBC receives approval for sandbox 12 CCMBC restructures financial ministries, presents budget 13 Ministry updates –Board of faith and life –L2L

14 C2C update Interview with Karolyn Burch –Angeline Schellenberg

16 Experience Vancouver photo essay

DEPARTMENTS 5 Letters 6 Homepage 22 News in story 25 Transitions, births, weddings 30 Finish lines [Obituaries]

COLUMNS

32 Crosscurrents

4 Editorial Gathering top four –Laura Kalmar

8 Executive director Celebrating the local church –Willy Reimer PHOTO: LAURA KALMAR

9 Text message Gardeners and builders: Co-workers in God’s service –Bruce Enns

20 Testimony From coat sale to clothed in Christ –Véronique Beaudin

33 Intersection of faith and life

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Drinking from the garden hose of Truth –Sandra Reimer

34 Viewpoint Ideal conditions –Shelaine Strom

COVER PHOTO: Karla Braun, Gathering 2014, outside Vancouver Public Library UPDATE: The July Transitions stated Jonathan Giesbrecht was beginning ministry at Greendale MB Church. Instead, he remains on staff at Northview Community Church, Abbotsford, B.C. MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD August 2014

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Editorial Gathering top four L AUR A K ALMAR n June, I attended Gathering 2014, the Canadian conference’s biennial convention. This year, the event was held in Vancouver at Westside Church’s The Centre – an amazing meeting space in the downtown core. Here are a few observations.

1. The foyer is fantastic One of my favourite spots at any CCMBC event is the foyer. It’s the place where networking happens and spontaneous prayer erupts. I noticed people enjoying the venue – inspired by architectural curves and dazzling mirrors – and reacquainting themselves with peers and friends from across the country.

As a denomination, I think we’ve moved past the Mennonite game where we desperately look for genealogical ties with everyone we meet. (“Hey, aren’t you related to my mother’s cousin’s husband’s uncle?”)

But, like all humans, we long to find connecting points with each other. This year, connections came in the form of shared vision and ministry. They came from genuine curiosity about each other.

Connections were built around the common joys and frustrations of living in a pluralistic society – and ways churches realized they could help each other.

Connections were developed through excitement about new church plants.

They were built on the foundation of Jesus’ good news.

2. We’re lovin’ the city This year’s Gathering was all about the city. Executive director Willy Reimer lamented how the church in Canada is primarily suburban, while millions of people live in the big city. He encouraged us to return to the city – on our knees and with open hearts.

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August 2014 www.mbherald.com

I don’t think Willy was saying city ministry is better than suburban ministry (any more than international ministry is better than North American ministry). But city ministry certainly comes with its own set of factors – higher cost of living and housing challenges, for example.

Church planter Kris Martens of Reality Vancouver noted how a large number of children with fetal alcohol syndrome are part of his Sunday school program, a reality that can tax volunteers and create ongoing stress.

And pastor Dennis Wilkinson of Meta Communities described their recent Sunday school picnic: Dennis’s Buddhist friends tried to convert his oldest daughter to the concept of reincarnation, while Dennis discussed Jesus with some Muslims interlocutors.

By Friday afternoon, I heard several comments from participants who were almost ready to pack their bags and move downtown. Yup, we love the city!

3. More is better than less Communication, that is.

This year, the executive board was all about providing information. It turns out there were some pretty complex issues to report, including the restructuring of CCMBC’s financial ministries (see page 11) and a whole new conference mission statement (see page 10).

Several people expressed gratitude that the planning team had carved out time in the schedule for breakout sessions where delegates could ask questions and find answers. There was a sense of trust and honest disclosure.

PHOTO: LISA HAMM

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4. A small but eager crowd Some people wondered whether June was the best month to hold a national event, since many people couldn’t get time off (or would have preferred to take vacation time in July) to attend. Of the 250 people who attended Gathering 2014, most were church professionals – a marked change from the family focus of past conventions.

However, there was definitely a sense of unity and worship among those who attended – a feeling that Canadian MB leaders were ready to hunker down and find a way forward together. Reg Toews, parliamentarian for the decision making sessions, thanked delegates for the tone of conversation over the four days: “It says a lot about what God is doing in us.”

Willy Reimer’s closing comments described it best: “There are 1,800 seats in this church and only about 250 people here, but we filled this place with worship.”

For more Gathering 2014 stories, photos, videos and blogs, see gathering.mennonitebrethren.ca

Letters Martial arts program troubling Re “Respect, peace and gospel grown at church-based dojo” (News, March). We were dismayed to see the article about North Kildonan MB Church having martial arts as part of the church programming. It seems a strange turn of events for an Anabaptist peace-promoting church to take up martial arts.

But much more troubling is Christians not recognizing that martial arts is rooted in an eastern worldview that isn’t Christian.

Taoist and Buddhist worldviews subtly pervade even a “Christian” form of martial arts. It’s much like “Christian” yoga, which is another popular activity churches are embracing and hosting. To bring martial arts and yoga into our churches as good exercise and outreach is a serious concern.

Bill Rudge, a former Karate for Christ leader, explains it this way: “Many who initially begin martial arts training for self-defense, physical discipline, exercise and health benefits, or for sports competition, eventually become involved in practices and philosophies that are diametrically opposed to biblical Christianity. In all styles of the martial arts, there is an underlying philosophy that eventually conflicts with Scripture. These disciplines have an alluring effect that tends to lead a person little by little into Eastern religious and occult philosophy and practice.”

KEN AND CAROLEE NEUFELD WINNIPEG

Hoorah for outdoor baptisms Re “Let’s go down to the water: Four churches celebrate Easter baptisms in the Pacific” (Features, June). I appreciated the article about outdoor baptisms. As a teenager, I was baptized in Swift Current Creek in southern Saskatchewan. Now, as a senior, I look back at this as a very precious time in my life.

We had no baptismal tanks, so after giving our testimonies in the church one Sunday morning in early June, we drove to the creek some miles away. I remember there were many visitors who came and asked questions. Upon arriving at the site, all the baptismal candidates went into a tent set up beside the water to change into suitable white clothing for the baptism. I remember the water being rather cold! The pastor was in the water, as well as a deacon who helped us balance in the current.

My baptism was very meaningful to me, and I was happy to see strangers present.

There, I made a strong commitment to serve my Lord in missions. I’ve now worked 37 years with Child Evangelism Fellowship teaching Bible in Manitoba schools.

LYDIA DYCK STEINBACH, MAN.

Herald scope too narrow Having read the Herald since its inception, I’m finding it difficult to understand the current language increasingly being used by writers, especially church leaders. I don’t ever recall reading an explanation of the meaning of C2C (I may have missed it), although it seems to be used in the context of church growth/planting, a theme that MBs appear to be singularly obsessed with – to the exclusion of many other aspects of our faith. Additionally, the word “missional” appears in almost every context. Having looked it up in all my dictionaries, I’m none the wiser, as it cannot be found. I don’t know if it’s a noun, verb, adjective, adverb or...well, you get my point.

I find myself drawing heavily on other church magazines for a more well-rounded dialogue on issues of faith, spirituality, peace, service and justice.

JOHN KONRAD, ABBOTSFORD, B.C.

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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@mbchurches.ca.

AUGUST 2014 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.

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homepage Stewardship staff transitions

CCMBC recently restructured its financial ministries, which included the launch of a new entity called CCMBC Legacy Investments Inc. (See “Conference restructures financial ministries, presents budget,” p. 11). These changes led to a new regulatory environment, including certification requirements for employees. As such, all five stewardship representatives will cease to serve the Mennonite Brethren constituency by the end of summer 2014.

PHOTO: COURTESY AL THIESSEN

In early July, the Canadian conference announced the permanent layoff of four of its stewardship representatives, with the fifth retiring at the end of July.

(l-r) Ben Wohlgemut, Lorne Willms, David Leung, Al Thiessen, Lloyd Reimer

Executive director Willy Reimer gratefully acknowledged the contributions of Al Thiessen (who served 15 years), Ben Wohlgemut (7 years), David Leung (9 years), Lorne Willms (3 years), and Lloyd Reimer (who served 11 years and retired on July 31).

“In the more than four decades this team has collectively served, these men have touched and equipped countless people, helping them see that God owns everything and that he invites his people to worship him through generous and faithful stewardship,” says Reimer.

In August 2013, following the resignation of CFO John Wiebe, the stewardship representatives moved under the leadership of L2L director Ron Toews. However, due to the review of CCMBC’s financial ministries, the men found

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their roles in flux and were unable to have their customary conversations with donors.

“This hasn’t been an easy ten months for the stewardship reps. Yet, even as the landscape was changing around them, these brothers remained eager to serve and continued in ministry to the best of their ability,” says Toews. “Please pray for these men as they transition into a new phase of life, asking God to guide them to new and meaningful ministry.”

The CCMBC finance team continues its search for a new CFO, while maintaining its commitment to providing mortgages for churches and pastoral staff through CCMBC Legacy Investments Inc. Conference staff continue to provide ongoing deposit services for members.—CCMBC release

xecutive director Willy Reimer has created a series of short video messages now available on the conference website (mennonitebrethren. ca). “These videos will be an opportunity to share the inspiring stories I hear from our MB churches and CCMBC staff as I work with leaders across the country,” says Reimer. “Our mission is to multiply Christ-centred churches to see Canada transformed by the good news of Jesus Christ, and my hope is that these updates will demonstrate how we’re really working together to bring the good news of Jesus to Canadians.” CCMBC will release new video updates from Reimer on a quarterly basis.

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August 2014 www.mbherald.com

Award-winning MB writers

Dora Dueck, member of Jubilee Mennonite Church, Winnipeg, won The Malahat Review’s 2014 novella prize. Chosen from 221 submissions, Dueck’s story “The Mask” was awarded $1,500 and publication in the Summer 2014 issue of The Malahat Review. Sarah Klassen of River East MB Church, Winnipeg, won the Margaret McWilliams Award for popular history, one of the oldest literary awards in Canada, for her novel The Wittenbergs. (Read a review at mbherald.com/ the-wittenbergs.) Katie Funk Wiebe, long-time Christian Leader columnist and author of many books, received The Word Guild’s Leslie K Tarr career achievement award.—malahatreview.ca, turnstonepress.com, thewordguild.com

coming events Conference events:

Sept. 23–25: C2C assessment centre, Calgary.

Sept. 26–28: AWAKE KW, Waterloo (Ont.) MB Church.

A beautiful faith

PHOTO: DUSTIN WIEBE

Japanese pastor sees Anabaptism as a way of life

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s a pastor of a Mennonite Brethren church in Japan, Yoshio Fujii had limited knowledge of the church’s deep Anabaptist roots.

To learn more about the church’s history and theology, he spent 2013/2014 studying at Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary in Fresno, Cal., followed by a five-week MB Historical Commission archival internship in May and June.

Through his seminary studies and research at the Centres for MB Studies in Winnipeg, Abbotsford, B.C., Hillsboro, Kan., and Fresno, he gained a deep appreciation for community-based discipleship that strives to exemplify the spirit and actions of Jesus.

“Anabaptists found a way to have a living faith,” he says. “It is a way of life.

It is a beautiful faith.”

Fujii and his wife Megumi provide pastoral care at Senboku Christ Church in Osaka. Before moving to Osaka, they were pastors of North Christ Church in Hiroshima. Fujii also teaches at the Evangelical Biblical Seminary in Osaka.

Loss leads to questions Fujii says his interest in the history of the Japanese Mennonite Brethren Conference (JMBC) stems from the loss of identity and roots he felt when his father died in 2011.

This personal loss took place just a few weeks after an earthquake and tsunami struck Japan. More than 18,000 people were killed and the Fukushima nuclear plant was damaged.

“To this natural and artificial disaster, the JMBC, including me, had no idea

how to respond,” he says. “I wanted to know…. How can we help people who are needy and suffering?”

MB churches in Japan, he says, teach the good news of salvation and assurance of eternal life in heaven.

“Individually, we say in our hearts that we follow Jesus, but it is an invisible faith to our neighbours,” Fujii says.

“How to make our invisible faith into a visible faith – that is my interest.”

Teachers demonstrate Christlikeness While in North America, Fujii learned how Anabaptist churches work for peace and justice through demonstrating Christlike responses. He learned about the history and ministries of Mennonite Central Committee and MB Mission in Japan.

During his archival internship, Fujii read handwritten letters and reports written

by MB missionaries in Japan. He was moved by their dedication and commitment to starting MB churches and a Bible college in Japan.

One his greatest sources of inspiration and learning was witnessing the daily lives and choices of his professors in Fresno and the people he met during his archival internship.

“It was through the way they lived that I learned a lot about Anabaptism,” Fujii says. “They show kindness to foreigners. They care for the marginalized and minorities. They have compassion for the poor, the needy and the hungry. It is not just a private faith, it is a transformed life.”

When he returns to Osaka, he plans to

Oct. 3: C2C Network Ontario celebration banquet.

Oct. 5–7: ABMB pastor and spouse’s retreat, Canmore, Alta.

Oct. 5–7: SKMB pastor and spouse’s retreat, Dallas Valley Ranch Camp, Sask.

Oct. 7: C2C Network B.C. celebration banquet.

Oct. 17: C2C Network Alberta celebration banquet.

Oct. 17–19: AWAKE Winnipeg.

Oct. 29: C2C Network Manitoba celebration banquet, Winnipeg.

Oct. 30: C2C Network Manitoba celebration banquet, Winkler.

Nov. 2: 50th anniversary celebration, Forest Grove Community Church, Saskatoon.

Nov. 17–20: C2C church planter retreat, Victoria.

Nov. 21–23: 50th anniversary celebration, South Langley (B.C.) Church.

Dec. 2–4: C2C assessment centre, Toronto, Ont. *date changed Partner events:

Sept. 12–13: Festival for World Relief (MCC), Abbotsford, B.C. Sept. 27: Mennonite Fall Fair (MCC), Prince George, B.C. Nov. 15: MCC Manitoba 50th anniversary gala.

July 17–19, 2015: Mennonite World Conference Global Youth Summit, Messiah College, Mechanicsburg, Pa. July 21–26, 2015: Mennonite World Conference Assembly 16, Harrisburg, Pa. View more events from churches, schools and agencies at mbherald. com/calendar. use his influence as a pastor and professor to inspire and equip people to demonstrate Christlike responses in daily life.

Some of the concerns in Japan are inequality between men and women, educated and uneducated, Japanese and non-Japanese, Fujii says.

Men have a difficult time balancing work and personal lives. The elderly and people living in poverty and with disabilities need love and care.

“We want to pay more attention to loving people,” he says.—Gladys Terichow, CCMBC writer MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD August 2014

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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Celebrating the local church

/ Willy Reimer

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love the local church. I’m in awe of God’s amazing plan to use the local church to give witness to the reality of the transforming gospel of Jesus Christ in word, deed and community life.

When someone says to me, “I love Jesus, but I don’t love the church,” I quickly reply, “Then I don’t think you love Jesus.” If we love, follow and obey Jesus, we must love what he loves – and he loves the local church.

recipe books or worship styles, we can easily become sidetracked.

Jesus said he would build the church (Matthew 16:18), and Paul said, “God’s purpose…was to use the church to display his wisdom in its rich variety to all the unseen rulers and authorities in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 3:10, NLT). If we’re not contributing to the local church, we’re working against God’s plan.

“You [plural] are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light” (1 Peter 2:9, NLT).

I know we can argue about what Jesus meant by “church.” We can speculate about its nature, organization, structure, priorities and failings. But we cannot, in good conscience, malign the church. The church is the bride of Christ. When we malign the bride, we offend the bridegroom.

The local church at Gathering Gathering 2014 increased my love and admiration for the local church. Local churches from across the nation gathered to pray, worship, process issues, celebrate testimonies of God’s work and grow our heart for mission.

I was humbled and inspired to be part of a group of believers pursuing Christ and seeking empowerment from his Spirit. I was encouraged by our common desire to be a people on mission, living in increasingly authentic community, faithful to the gospel and grappling with 21st century challenges and opportunities.

But I also have some concerns about the church. They’re not concerns about marginalization, shrinking attendance or irrelevance. My greatest concern for the church is that we’ll forget who we are. If we define ourselves by common history, bloodlines, 8

August 2014 www.mbherald.com

Our mission – our reason for existence – must flow out of our identity in Christ.

You are a chosen people. God first chose us, we didn’t choose him. Hebrews 12:2 tells us that Jesus is the “author of our faith,” and John 6:44 says no one comes to God unless the Spirit draws them. We can argue about predestination versus free will, but there’s no argument about God’s initiating work on our behalf.

You are royal priests. Every Christ follower is a priest – gifted, called and commissioned to ministry – as part of a corporate priesthood. God put us in neighbourhoods, teams, schools, offices and workplaces to be ministers of the gospel.

Look into your world to see where there’s brokenness and step into it with the reconciling truth and power of the gospel.

A holy nation. The church is set apart for God’s glory and commissioned to fulfill his purposes, and individual Christ followers have a valuable contribution to make to the church. Remember: church is about God, not us. Too often, we treat the church as if it were set apart for our purposes. We say we’re “church shopping,” or looking to have “our needs met.”

But church isn’t an event to attend, a product to consume or a service to use. Church is a community of Christ followers living out our corporate identity in Christ and reflecting the reality of the risen Christ to

PHOTO: LISA HAMM

What is the church?

the world around us – even to the heavenly realms!

Show others God’s goodness Here’s the role of the church, as translated in the NIV: “declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” To declare is to “advertise, to proclaim” or, in current terms, to be the movie trailer of the greatest story ever told.

If you’ve had a difficult church experience or were hurt by someone in the church, press into Jesus and his bride. Forgive those who hurt you, be renewed in Christ and be encouraged by the bride.

Even the apostles had challenging church experiences. However, long-term disengagement wasn’t an option for them, nor is it an option for us. Individualistic spirituality isn’t a biblical model.

The bride of Christ is beautiful, dangerous, inspiring and disappointing all at once. Yet it’s what Jesus committed himself to build and use to demonstrate the reality of the inbreaking kingdom of God. Thank God for the local church.

GATHERING 2014 MULTIPLYING FOR MISSION

Gardeners and builders:Co-workers in God’s service Bruce Enns

1 CORINTHIANS 3:1–11 We don’t have much control over the physical process of maturing – our bodies grow and change and get older whether we want them to or not. But spiritual, emotional, social and intellectual maturing involves more choice.

We can decide if we want to mature in these areas or simply stop growing.

Unfortunately, we sometimes choose to remain immature.

Immaturity in the local church has many expressions. Paul addresses the issue in several letters to the churches, and we’ve probably all experienced immaturity in our congregations.

Why is maturity in the church so important? Because the local church matters! The local church is the bride of Christ. Without maturity, what’s been called an “unstoppable force” becomes very “stoppable.”

really good biblical things – can create disunity and stall the church in its growth process.

Paul rebukes the Corinthians for how they’ve created camps PHOTO: LISA HAMM

Growing up is important.

around human leaders. “What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe – as the Lord has assigned to each his task” (v. 5).

Paul says that when we become champions of individual human leaders instead

and waters. Our participation matters – as long as we remember we are second.

Two helpful metaphors

Paul goes on to suggest two metaphors to help us understand the difsion of the church, we’ve lost our way.

THE CENTRE, VANCOUVER B.C. JUNE 11 - 14, 2014 ferent roles we might play in kingdom Join us in Vancouver we exploreand howbuilders. we can multiply the reach of work –as gardeners of staying focused on the unity and mis-

We are second

our churches and shape our mission as Canadian Mennonite Brethren.

If we think of these metaphors in terms E: mpenner@mbconf.ca mennonitebrethren.ca of discipleship in the local church, we Paul then makes an even moreP: (888) 669-6575 realize we need both in order to mature significant point around the question Unity as a sign of maturity as the body of Christ. of roles – not between human leaders, In 1 Corinthians 3, Paul calls the church but between us and God. Even as the 1. The gardener to walk toward maturity because, ultiLord calls us to be his co-workers, The gardener is someone who’s a little more “hands off” and mostly mately, maturity leads to mission. we must remember that God always concerned about environment – ensurcomes first.

One of the great schemes of the enemy ing proper soil, nutrients, water and is to distract the church with all kinds In verses 5–9, Paul makes it clear that sunlight. The gardener is patient and of secondary issues, taking our focus God is the one who makes all things future-oriented, knowing growth takes away from God’s mission in the world. grow. But although it doesn’t matter time and doesn’t always happen the Arguments around secondary issues who does the planting or watering, way we expect. The gardener may ask – even subtly different perspectives on it does matter that somebody plants questions like: Are the conditions right for spiritual growth? Do you like the person you’re becoming? What needs to change in the growth environment, 1 CORINTHIANS 3:6–7, 9–11 I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God and how do we change that? has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow…. For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building. By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.

2. The builder The builder is more “hands on” and likes to work with clear plans and the end in mind. The builder doesn’t mind continued on page 19

MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD August 2014

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GATHERING BUSINESS CCMBC receives approval for sandbox

RE, VANCOUVER B.C. JUNE 11 - 14, 2014

uver as we explore how we can multiply the reach of shape our mission as Canadian Mennonite Brethren.

5 E: mpenner@mbconf.ca mennonitebrethren.ca

Canadian Conference of MB Churches biennial convention, June 11–14, 2014

T H E C E N T R E , VA N CO U V E R , B .C .

At Gathering 2014, CCMBC’s executive board introduced a motion to approve, in principle, a draft of its “sandbox document,” which includes a new mission statement, preferred culture, operating principles and central ministry focus. The document was an outcome of CCMBC’s internal review process discussed at Gathering 2012 in Winnipeg.

Executive director Willy Reimer explained how the board created the sandbox document to help guide the work of CCMBC staff and ministries as they concentrate on helping local churches achieve God’s purposes for their ministries.

“Our staff’s central ministry focus is to help multiply leaders and disciple-making churches,” said Reimer.

Dialogue around mission statement CCMBC’s new mission statement (“To multiply Christ-centred churches to see Canada transformed by the good news of Jesus Christ”) is intended to provide a shared vision for all member churches united across the country. The statement drew vibrant conversation from the convention floor.

“What about regions where significant numerical growth is an improbability? What does multiplication for mission mean for them?” asked Kevin Koop of Blaine Lake (Sask.) Gospel Chapel.

“This isn’t a prescriptive target,” answered Reimer, “it’s a description of mindset. What does it mean to be a faithful church with that mindset? We encourage churches to pray and seek the Lord for how to live this out in your given context.”

Ben Kramer @benyamen

12 Jun

@MB_Herald so what’s the deal with the persisting and pervasive sandbox metaphor I’ve been reading? #ccmbcevents 10

August 2014 www.mbherald.com

What does transformation mean?

Other delegates expressed concern over the word “transformed,” wondering if it’s actually a biblical mandate.

“Are we called to ‘transform Canada’ as denomination?” asked Steve Wiens of Northview Community Church, Abbotsford, B.C. “We’re working to stay away from the individualism of our culture,” responded Reimer.

“In our understanding of the kingdom of God, the Lord works to redeem individuals through the people of God in whom there is expression of the kingdom.”

Tim McCarthy of North Langley (B.C.) Community Church agreed with Reimer.

“We believe that [transformation] happens through Christ-centred churches equipping people to be in their workplace, in their community, doing what God has called them to do.”

Delegates voted to approve the draft of the sandbox document, with some opposing votes registered.

—Karla Braun

CCMBC Mission Statement To multiply Christ-centred churches to see Canada transformed by the good news of Jesus Christ.

Guiding Principles 1. We are Bible-based and Spirit-led.

2. We are gospel-focused and kingdom-oriented.

3. We are called to resource for fruitful ministry.

4. We are a learning community.

5. We are partnership-oriented.

Preferred Culture We are a Christ-centred, transformational community characterized by: 1. Risk-taking, Spirit-led faith 2. Sacrificial generosity 3. Interdependence and cooperation 4. Speaking truth in love 5. Prayer-permeated 6. Storytelling and celebration

Central Ministry Focus Helping multiply leaders and disciple-making churches For more details about the sandbox document, see “Executive director report” under “Reports” at gathering.mennonitebrethren.ca.

GATHERING 2014 MULTIPLYING FOR MISSION

“I’ve been asked many times about why we talk about multiplication,” said executive director Willy Reimer in reference to CCMBC’s new mission statement: “To multiply Christ-centred churches to see Canada transformed by the good news of Jesus Christ.”

“Multiplying is a mindset, not a number,” said Reimer. “The kingdom of God is always growing as the people of God share the life of God. Jesus is always multiplying – with bread and fish…and lives!

“Multiplying is a mindset, not

THE CENTRE, VANCOUVER B.C. JUNE 11 - 14, 2014

a number.”

Join us in Vancouver as we explore how we can multiply the reach

our churches and shape our mission as Canadian Mennonite Brethre P: (888) 669-6575 E: mpenner@mbconf.ca mennonitebrethren PHOTOS: LISA HAMM

“Multiplying for mission is always personal.

It’s not about hitting targets. The more we know people [who don’t know Jesus], the more urgent it becomes.”

Norm Funk, pastor of Westside Church and host of Gathering 2014 at The Centre, preached during the opening Celebration Service from THE CENTRE, VANCOUVER B.C. JUNE 11 - 14, 2014 2 Corinthians 4:1–6, saying the ministry Join us in Vancouver as we explore how we can multiply the reach of we’ve been given is a gift. “We can’t be our churches and shape our mission as Canadian Mennonite Brethren. sufficient enough in ourselves – our (888) 669-6575 E:our mpenner@mbconf.ca mennonitebrethren.ca education,P:our experience, history.

Ours is a ministry of the Spirit! If we just rely on ourselves, we lose heart or get cocky.”

Funk exhorted leaders to preach the full gospel. “Sometimes not all the gospel is taught,” he said, “especially the hard parts, or when we question it or don’t teach it with conviction. And sometimes we rely on bait-and-switch tactics, telling people their marriage or their family or their health will be better when they come to Jesus. The gospel doesn’t promise those things.”

Funk also said the gospel calls us to preach with passion. “The gospel brings light and life. The gospel is not a what, it’s a who – Jesus! That should fire us up with passion!”

MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD August 2014

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GATHERING BUSINESS CCMBC restructures financial ministries, presents budget

RE, VANCOUVER B.C. JUNE 11 - 14, 2014

ver as we explore how we can multiply the reach of shape our mission as Canadian Mennonite Brethren.

5 E: mpenner@mbconf.ca mennonitebrethren.ca

The Canadian Conference of MB Churches’ (CCMBC) finance committee made several presentations at Gathering 2014 in Vancouver, including a summary of the findings of a recent financial audit that prompted the launch of a new corporation.

The finance committee admitted it couldn’t currently provide many details about CCMBC Legacy Investments, Inc. due to the legal nature of the recommendation.

They did say, however, that the creation of this corporation was driven by a desire to improve compliance to the law, reduce risk and streamline governance.

“Sustainability is always in the background of our thinking,” said finance committee chair Harold Froese. “CCMBC Legacy Investments Inc. may generate more or less revenue for us. We just don’t know about the level of profitability it will have. At this point, the investment funds have grown faster than the demand for mortgages. But, as we heard, God is leading us to the heart of the city, which leads to higher costs – higher ‘investments.’ There are many unknowns.”

Shoring up reserves The financial committee is also working toward building a reserve fund valued at approximately 10 percent of the total amount on deposit (some $26 million).

However, the reserve fund is still low (at only $2.7 million).

“We discovered we had overstated the value of our net assets [on previous years’ tax returns], which greatly lowered the reserves we had to work with,” said committee member Len Penner. (He explained 12

August 2014 www.mbherald.com

that the auditors had recommended a change in how CCMBC should manage land held for development, which prompted the change in reporting.)

In order to offset this difference – which is close to $10 million – the executive board will now move faster in selling some 10 properties originally purchased for development. Penner said the properties are currently being appraised and will go on the market in the near future, although he suspects it may take years to sell all the land.

Penner indicated that the original purpose of the deposit fund – to provide mortgages for pastors and churches who may find it difficult to get loans from traditional banks – still exists. To date, the conference has provided nearly $87 million worth of mortgages.

Budget 2015 The financial committee then presented a motion to approve an $18.2 million budget for 2015. (The total amount is a consolidated figure that includes amounts for facilities, operations, finance administration and interest costs.)

Looking at the 2015 ministry budget, Penner pointed out that revenue from member churches has continued to decrease over the past years, and he wondered how the conference could move to a place where ministry wasn’t so heavily funded by interest earnings from the investment fund.

“The best opportunity is not a cost reduction,” said Penner, “but one of revenue generation. We are far from tapping out revenue potential. One [income] line that has been flat is church contributions. What will it take for churches to have confidence and vote with their wallets? We need to

Len Penner

earn their respect and find a way to connect with heartstrings.”

One delegate asked about budget expenses, wondering whether every dollar was spent wisely and efficiently. “Every time you open the Herald, someone new has been hired at the conference. It feels like it’s getting top heavy. What’s the actual amount spent on staffing?”

Harold Froese replied by saying the number of conference staff has remained consistent at approximately 58 people for 2–3 years. “We don’t see it as staffing costs,” he said. “We say it’s a staffing investment in the kingdom.”

Another delegate asked about the wisdom of CCMBC decreasing its financial support for the International Community of Mennonite Brethren (ICOMB). “[The budgeted amount for ICOMB] in no way signals a reduction in support,” said Froese. “What we’re trying to do is allow other countries to step up to the plate. We don’t want to be seen to be directly or indirectly running ICOMB. But if there were a great need, we wouldn’t walk away.”

Delegates passed the motion to approve the 2015 budget by an overwhelming majority.—Laura Kalmar

PHOTO: LISA HAMM

In order to separate investment funds from day-to-day operating costs of the organization, the Canadian conference created a separate legal entity called CCMBC Legacy Investments, Inc. All investment monies – including deposit accounts and mortgages given to churches and pastors – will be managed through this new entity.

GATHERING 2014 MULTIPLYING FOR MISSION

Board of faith and life update “Theological reflection is like breathing: if we stop, we die,” said board of faith and life (BFL) chair Brian Cooper during the BFL breakout session at Gathering 2014.

The survey distributed by the BFL to pastors regarding the Confession of Faith, however, showed our breathing is still regular where the Confession is concerned; there is no need for an entire overhaul. Respondents generally affirmed the Confession and indicated some 90 percent use it as a ministry tool.

Cooper and Bill Hogg also briefly explained the board’s three main considerations when they planned last fall’s study conference on human sexuality (orient ourselves to the realities of the current Canadian social landscape, review the biblical understanding of human sexuality, hint at a pastoral response) and then summarized some constituent responses they received.

L2L update At the nine-year mark, his church was in vision drift, said pastor Brad Sumner at the L2L breakout session at Gathering 2014. Jericho Ridge Community Church, Langley, B.C., called on L2L (CCMBC’s newly christened leadership development arm), expecting “a sage from the stage,” but instead got “a guide from the side,” who helped them through self-discovery, allowing them to own their lessons and action steps.

“Nobody goes to church to put in

Paul Cumin @PaulCumin

12 Jun

@MBBSCanada suggest you change your name to an acronym with 2 in it #ccmbcevents

The conference did focus on the issue of homosexuality; however, the elephant in the room is not same-sex relations, said Cooper, but marital fidelity, cohabitation, premarital sex and pornography.

In the past, “we’ve focused on identifying sin rather than restoring people who have been in sin,” said Cooper. “We want our emphasis to be on the latter.”

“We’re not just wrestling with ideas,” said Hogg, but “human brokenness.

And each one of us is broken, messed up and in need of healing and transformation.”

Delegates thanked the BFL for their work, but many raised concerns about the scope of topic around

sexuality recognized at the study conference, calling particularly for useful resources to shape healthy sexuality in children.

Other issues on the BFL horizon include cultivating more harmony around pastoral credentialing processes between provinces, human rights legislation, and the next human sexuality study conference in Winnipeg in 2015.

Following Friday’s elections at Gathering 2014, Ingrid Reichard stepped into the role of vice-chair.

Some provincial representatives were pending appointment at press time, and two member-at-large positions are unfilled.—Karla Braun

THE CENTRE, VANCOUVER B.C. JUNE 11 - 14, 2014 The coach process is not a dialogue, Join us in Vancouver as we explore how we can multiply the reach of our churches and shape our mission as Canadian Mennonite Brethren. but a tri-alogue: a conversation between 669-6575 E: mpenner@mbconf.ca mennonitebrethren.ca you, the coachP: (888) and God.

time,” said Ron Toews, L2L director.

Through coaching, L2L helps churches and individuals grow on a journey with God. “Good coaching helps you better understand where you’re at,” said lifelong learning host Daniel Beutler – even if that place is scary.

L2L’s interactive website, l2lnet.org, enables peer to peer coaching, professional consulting and resource sharing, both for congregations and individuals.

“We are on a lifelong journey of discovery with God,” said Beutler. At each

turning point – whether a high or low – “God deposits key insights and entrustments that shape both our being and our doing,” he said, giving the example of Joseph whose challenges with his brothers and as a slave prepared him to rule Egypt (Genesis 50:18–20).

The coach process, said Beutler, is not a dialogue, but “a tri-alogue: a conversation between you, the coach and God.” It’s about listening, learning and living.—Karla Braun

MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD August 2014

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I N T E R V I E W Karolyn Burch

I

n January, the C2C Network hired Karolyn Burch as director of ministry to church planter spouses.

MB Herald copy editor Angeline Schellenberg talked with Karolyn about how God led her to this place and about her role at Gathering 2014.

What is your mandate with C2C?

while Mark was pastor-

To come alongside planters’ wives and care for them, investing in women as God uses them in leadership alongside their husbands, so we don’t have churches closing because couples are falling apart.

ing Willow Park Church

How will you do this?

On my knees. One day at a time. I’ve been travelling, meeting with wives, trying to get clusters together. I’m doing a lot of listening; I don’t want to assume we know what they need.

in Kelowna, played a huge part in building me up. God surrounded me with people who believed I was more than what I believed myself. I was working the front desk; they encouraged me to teach fitness. I even quit, but they kept on me to finish. They gave me a Special Someone Award – I can’t even tell you

What needs are you hearing?

For a connectedness with others on a similar journey, “a soul spa” – someone to listen to their heart. I’m asking God to raise leaders across the country to walk alongside planters’ wives. Just as C2C trusts the Lord to bring planters, he will find the mentors. He loves them more than I do.

what that did for me.

Did you feel a specific call to this ministry?

Five years ago, I had a vision: Jesus put his hand on my shoulder and turned me around; I saw a sea of women and every face had the same joyless expression, like their souls had been stolen.

What past experiences prepared you for this role?

The enemy has stolen women’s identity,

My pivotal growing-up years were spent at a Bible family conference centre. My dad was strict about us going out to meet people and hear their stories. That was part of God’s training in my life.

My heart breaks when I see women who

I was a pastor’s wife for 23 years with all the opportunities that brings: I worked as youth director, worship leader, speaker at conferences and retreats; I mentored young women and led Bible studies.

women?

Volunteering at YMCA for eight years,

be marked by her freedom in Christ.

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convincing us beauty is all about the flesh. don’t know that Jesus in them makes them beautiful.

What’s your vision for ministering to “You will know the truth and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32). I desire, not just for planters’ wives, but the impossible picture: that every woman in Canada would

What brings you the most joy?

Long moments with my Saviour, reading the Word and sipping coffee. Second to that is doing life with my neighbours.

I’ve heard you spent time every day in the Bible as a stay-at-home mom.

Yes, my mornings are for Jesus.

More out of desperation; I crave to be with him.

I pray over his Word as I read it, asking the Holy Spirit to tattoo those words on my heart. I listen for names he brings to my mind. I pray my mind will be so uncluttered that I’ll hear the faintest whisper.

That’s still my routine. God has been reaffirming to me that he’s not asking me to give that up, no matter how much this ministry grows. My passion is to know him. That’s what drives me.

Not women. Not ministry. It’s knowing Jesus.

GATHERING 2014

PHOTOS: LISA HAMM

MULTIPLYING FOR MISSION

Tell me about your experiences at Gathering 2014. What blessed you?

Abbotsford. God always had

It felt like we were coming home. We’d been away from the MB family for a couple years while Mark was pastoring a Baptist church. But our entire ministry before that was with MBs. At Gathering, we reconnected. MBs are a beautiful family. I felt loved and grounded.

their arms around us.

What is it about MBs that makes you feel at home?

It’s the spirit of servanthood, of genuine concern for each other’s well-being. We’ve sensed that love.

We’ve experienced the humility of people affirming each other’s calling without feeling threatened.

There’s no way we’d be on this journey without this family around us.

Mark’s first senior pastorate was Arnold Community Church in

couples just ahead of us who put

What surprised you?

It shouldn’t have surprised me, but I was amazed at how quickly the family came together in anticipation of God showing up. There was a thunder, a hunger to be able to worship together, then a resonant silence.

As MC, you stood after the worship and said something prophetic.

I apologized that we had to do announcements because the presence of God was so prevalent, I didn’t want to break it. I said God didn’t speak to Elijah in a noise, but a whisper (1 Kings 19:12). God was

What inspired you?

The words of affirmation from brothers and sisters: holy moments when THE CENTRE, VANCOUVER B.C. JUNE 11 - 14, 2014 God was speaking to me through Join us in Vancouver as we explore how we can multiply the reach of them. Marvin Dyck (of Crossroads our churches and shape our mission as Canadian Mennonite Brethren.

MB, Winnipeg) affirmed a childhood P: (888) 669-6575 E: mpenner@mbconf.ca mennonitebrethren.ca dream that God asked me years ago to lay down: the intense desire to use words so others would be drawn to the Father.

God took me through six years of brokenness and removal of every identity I’d known myself by. He didn’t want what I could do for him, he wanted me. My pursuit became about him alone.

At Gathering, I heard God saying, “I haven’t forgotten the dream.”

Like with Abraham, he gave Isaac back to me.

waiting for the quiet to show up.

MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD August 2014

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PHOTO: LISA HAMM

MULTIPLYIN

(

PHOTO: KARLA BRAUN

Thank God for the diverse cultures in Canada. By befriending neighbours and coworkers or going the extra mile to get to know international students, Canadians have access to the world. Pray that God’s people in Canada will share Christ’s transforming power in our lives with others.

GATHERI MULTIPLYING

(

Pray for God to send Christians back into the heart of the city – a place from which many churches have fled. C2C director Gord Fleming said it’s too easy to buy into the lie that it’s hopeless to try to plant churches in cities. “We need to remember that Jesus does have dominion from sea to sea.”

EXPERIENCE PHOTO: LISA HAMM

(

16

Ask the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into his harvest field (Luke 10:2). Join other MBs across Canada by setting your watch to beep at 10:02 as a reminder to stop and pray.

Experience Vancouver was a tour (either on foot or by bus) highlighting various Mennonite Brethren ministries throughout downtown Vancouver. It offered participants a small taste of how MB initiatives operate in the city’s diverse contexts, as C2C Network church planters shared their passion

August 2014 www.mbherald.com

THE CENTRE, VANCOUVE

PHOTO: LAURA KALMAR

NG FOR MISSION

(

Pray that Vancouver church planters would find afford-

able housing and suitable spaces to worship. Pray they would have patience and fortitude to live in communities often unreceptive – or even hostile – to the gospel. Pray they would find favour with their neighbours and envision creative ways to connect with them.

ING 2014 FOR MISSION

VANCOUVER

PHOTO: LISA HAMM

(

Pray for the families of church planters that they would remain strong and united. In Vancouver, these folks are sometimes the first Christians their colleagues or school friends have ever met!

Participants were invited to pray for the city, and many were inspired to see their own communities through new eyes. (For more photos and blogs, see “Experience Vancouver” at gathering.mennonitebrethren.ca.)

ER B.C. JUNE 11 - 14, 2014

PHOTO: CARSON SAMSON

to see their neighbours experience Christ in life-transforming ways.

MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD August 2014

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GATHERING 2014 MULTIPLYING FOR MISSION

PHOTO: LISA HAMM

Dean Morris and Nelson Boschman led worship throughout the event, inviting delegates to experience – in the words of executive director Willy Reimer – the “manifest presence of God, out of which mission flows.”

NTRE, VANCOUVER B.C. JUNE 11 - 14, 2014

couver as we explore how we can multiply the reach of Willy Reimer paid tribute to nd shape our mission as Canadian Mennonite Brethren.

Ralph and Grace Gliege, THE CENTRE, VANCOUVER B.C. JUNE 11 - 14, 2014

citing 22 years of Join us in Vancouver as we explore how we can multiply the reach of ministry in our mission as Canadian Mennonite Brethren. our churches and shape Saskatchewan P: (888) 669-6575 E: mpenner@mbconf.ca mennonitebrethren.ca marked by perseverance, passion for Christ and hospitality.

“You are all about relationship,” said Reimer, presenting the couple with a serving plate to symbolize the way they’ve graciously hosted others over the years.

Harold Froese (Fort Garry MB Church, Winnipeg) was affirmed as the new moderator of CCMBC’s executive board, with Len Penner (Fort Garry MB) serving as assistant moderator. Howie Wall (Forest Grove Community Church, Saskatoon), Mark Wessner (Westwood Church, Prince George, B.C.) and Karen Grace-Pankratz (Fort Garry MB) were affirmed as new members-at-large.

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PHOTO: LAURA KALMAR

PHOTO: LISA HAMM

PHOTO: LISA HAMM

575 E: mpenner@mbconf.ca mennonitebrethren.ca

Paul Loewen ended his decade-long service on CCMBC’s executive board, including four years as moderator. On July 1, Loewen became conference minister for the Alberta conference (ABMB).

GATHERING 2014 MULTIPLYING FOR MISSION

Brad Sumner @bdsumner

13 Jun

@GregoryGHarris re your comment about my green pants: do you think I could use them to vote yes to a motion on the floor? #ccmbcevents

dean @dean_alexander_

13 Jun

In honour of the #WorldCup2014 I want to dramatically hold up my “red card” at least once during voting #ccmbcevents

TEXT MESSAGE continued from page 9 starting with demolition (even blowing things up!) before beginning construction with tangible materials and favourite tools. The builder likes to see real progress at the end of the day, focusing on results toward a clear future.

The builder may ask questions like: What are you doing right now? How does that help us toward our defined goal? What are your plans for tomorrow? While future-oriented, the builder focuses on tangible, short-term objectives to get there.

The church needs both gardeners and builders. It’s not that one is good and the other bad – they’re simply different approaches to our work in the kingdom.

In fact, the impact of one is weakened Gil Dueck 13 Jun @gildueck without the other, as each approach has a “The builder and the gardener; we “shadow” (negative) need them both to flourish.” - thanks side that must be for these words, @bkennser, we need revealed and them #ccmbcevents

managed for a healthy, effective approach to discipleship.

THE CENTRE, VANCOUVER B.C. JUNE 11 - 14, 2014

Join us into Vancouver as we explore how we can multiply the reach of Back our foundation

our churches and shape our mission as Canadian Mennonite Brethren.

In verses 10–11, Paul again reminds us that P: (888) 669-6575 mpenner@mbconf.ca mennonitebrethren.ca our work has onlyE:one foundation – Jesus.

Whether we’re gardeners or builders, the hope and promise of the gospel of Jesus Christ is the foundation of all we do.

When we acknowledge our foundation, we can enthusiastically embrace our unique roles in the church. When we learn to work alongside those who are very different from us and cheer each other on, we will grow in maturity. And, ultimately, God’s mission will gain traction.

We are builders and gardeners working with the same purpose, each one doing the work the Lord gave us – proclaiming and living the hope of the gospel through the local church.

Bruce Enns has been pastoring since 2000 and is currently lead pastor at Forest Grove Community Church, Saskatoon. He delivered this message at Gathering 2014 during Friday night’s celebration service.

MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD August 2014

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T E S T I M O N Y From coat sale to clothed in Christ

“M

y story is part of the story of God,” says Véronique Beaudin. She thanks God for carrying her through severe depression and suicidal episodes to healing and flourishing.

At 32, Véronique felt hopeless as memories from childhood sexual abuse resurfaced.

She opened the Bible and started to read Revelation to find out how the world ends, thinking that her own life would not last much longer. Unable to understand the meaning, she closed it after a few minutes.

Alone in her apartment that night, Véronique lay on the ground and cried out to God. “If you really exist, put some people on my path because I cannot continue.”

Gospel of John to read. He told her she was welcome to come back any time.

when she first

Several weeks later, Véronique did return to L’Intersection, where she was surprised to learn that Patrice was preaching a series on Revelation.

L’Intersection,

That day, Nagant spoke about the church of Ephesus that lost its first love, Jesus. He said Christians need to bring Jesus back to the centre of their lives.

met Peter, and

Some days later, an advertisement in the paper caught her eye; it was for a leather jacket sale from Thursday to Sunday at La Villa des Moulins in Terrebonne, Que. She normally slept in on Sunday mornings; however, when her mother-in-law called early to invite her out for breakfast, Véronique decided to check out the jacket sale with her boyfriend after the breakfast.

“That’s when I understood that I wanted Jesus to be the centre of my life,” Véronique says.

L’Intersection.

Walking through the door A church called L’Intersection was meeting in the room next to the coat sale.

Véronique’s boyfriend, who stood in the doorway listening, was soon invited to come in and bring Véronique.

Unaware of how these steps would change her life, she timidly walked into the young church plant in the hotel ballroom. Cindy, co-pastor Patrice Nagant’s wife, warmly welcomed her.

“What is this place?” Véronique asked Cindy.

“This is a place where we come to celebrate God,” Cindy said.

Patrice also greeted Véronique and, after a brief discussion, gave her a copy of the 20

August 2014 www.mbherald.com

went to God had other plans. During her walk of faith, she they were married in October 2011 at Véronique’s life has been and continues to be

Drawn to the One who heals and restores

transformed by

Véronique continued to come to church, first sporadically, then regularly, and joined a home group where she was mentored and encouraged by co-pastor David Miller and his wife Patricia and a group member named Anne. Several months later, after much Bible reading, praying and sharing with brothers and sisters in the church community, she gave her life to the One who could heal and restore her.

ing of her life has

Baptized in 2008, Véronique is now a leader at L’Intersection. She is finishing a BA in theology at ETEM, where she also works as admissions counsellor and recruiter. She dreams of using art therapy to help lead people to the One who answered her prayer that night when she was alone and hopeless.

victims.”

Véronique is no longer alone, and this is true in more ways than one. Although Véronique was not looking for a husband

God. The meancompletely changed as she turns daily to Christ. “I want to serve God and give him my whole life,” she says. “And I want to help victims, all kinds of

A version of this story from C2C Network Quebec regional director Patrice Nagant was published on the Regenerate 21-01 website (www.regenerate2101.ca/blog/?p=132).

Véronique Beaudin shared her testimony at Gathering 2014 in Vancouver.

GATHERING 2014 MULTIPLYING FOR MISSION

THE CENTRE, VANCOUVER B.C. JUNE 11 - 14, 2014 Join us in Vancouver as we explore how we can multiply the reach of our churches and shape our mission as Canadian Mennonite Brethren.

PHOTO: COURTESY VÉRONIQUE BEAUDIN

P: (888) 669-6575 E: mpenner@mbconf.ca mennonitebrethren.ca

MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD August 2014

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NE WS in stor y L A N G L E Y, B . C .

MCC B.C. annual general meeting

R

omans 5:1–5 is exactly what the Christian community is called to do, said Abe Janzen, MCC’s executive director for Alberta, at Mennonite Central Committee B.C.’s annual meeting June 21, 2014, at North Langley (B.C.) Community Church.

“The world is full of people who live such desperate lives,” said Janzen, the featured speaker.

Director of donor relations Gerd Bartel told delegates there are now 50 million refugees in the world, the largest number since World War II. “MCC is there to help in those small places,” said Janzen, “and we can give many a sense of hope. And their faith becomes bigger.”

Janzen said MCC provides funds for Kenyans to build sand dams, which can provide water

for up to 1,100 families. “This is like an MCC relief sale,” he said; “It shouldn’t work. Far too many people!” An average dam costs about $15,000 for materials.

“Our volunteers are the backbone of what we do,” MCC B.C. director Wayne Bremner said. “We have about 3,000 volunteers in B.C., plus others we don’t know of.”

Bremner hopes to see the new MCC B.C. centre in use by this fall, “while across the street [in Abbotsford] there are still problems in the homeless community.”

The Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce has recognized MCC B.C. as non-profit organization of the year, an honour, Bremner said, “that belongs to thousands of volunteers, staff and donors.”—Barrie McMaster, B.C. correspondent

Board chair Len Bloch addresses MCC B.C.’s annual meeting, as slides of Philippines typhoon Haiyan play behind him.

British Columbians contributed more than a half-million dollars for MCC relief efforts following that disaster.

Canadian Foodgrains Bank (CFGB) is pleased Canada continues its global leadership in improving maternal, newborn and child heath with the announcement of $3.5 billion from 2015–2020.

The June 2 announcement was part of the Saving Every Woman Every Child: Within Arm’s Reach Summit in Toronto and builds on the G8 Muskoka Initiative, Canada’s 2010 commitment to maternal and child health around the world. Every year, 3 million children die because they aren’t nourished enough to fight disease. CFGB was encouraged that nutrition was named as a key program priority for the funding.—CFGB release

New legislation on prostitution

The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada applauds Bill C-36, the Protection of Communities and Exploited Persons Act, introduced June 4. The bill proposes a new offense prohibiting the purchase of sexual services regardless of location, a new offense for selling sexual services where an individual under 18 could reasonably be present and for advertising the sale of sexual services in print or online media. Those who are prostituted are to be treated as vulnerable individuals with immunity from criminal penalty.

The government made a $20 million commitment to support programs that will assist individuals in exiting prostitution.— evangelicalfellowship.ca

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PHOTOS: SOPHIE TIESSEN-EIGBIKE

Canada invests in maternal/child health

Kim Thiessen and Darryl Neustaedter Barg, pictured in performance at the 2014 annual general meeting of MCC B.C., communicate hope through music. They have collaborated since 2001 to raise awareness and funding toward MCC’s HIV/ AIDS work, raising more than $800,000 for MCC’s Generations Program. Their fifth album is Even in the Smallest Places.

MCC on the ground in Iraq

After the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIS) took over the city of Mosul June 11, more than 300,000 residents fled to nearby villages and the Kurdish area of Iraq. The United Nations estimates Iraq has 1.9 million internally displaced persons (IDPs). Mennonite Central Committee’s partner Al Amal (The Hope), an ongoing peacebuilding and community development ministry, is providing food and water to IDPs, with support from MCC. MCC hopes to send 12,000 hygiene kits and 3,000 relief kits to Iraqis affected by the conflict.—mcccanada.ca

CMU inspires toward reconciliation

I

f they weren’t studying together at Canadian Mennonite University in Winnipeg, Theo Muthumwa and Shadrack Mutabazi would be adversaries.

The two men are pastors from the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Both survived ethnic violence and traumatic civil war in their homeland, followed by years of exile elsewhere in the region. Both came to Canada as immigrants.

Both study Peace and Conflict Transformation Studies (PACTS) at CMU. However, Muthumwa is part of the Bantu majority from the eastern Congo, while Mutabazi is from the Banyamulenge minority. Their peoples have a history of mistrust and war against one another.

“Banyamulenge in eastern Congo have a reputation of being people who bring trouble,” says Muthumwa. “If we didn’t talk,…

I would think [Mutabazi] is my enemy.”

Instead, the two are working toward peace and reconciliation between their peoples.

Sharing stories together Their paths first crossed during an introductory PACTS course at CMU. Through classroom discussions, their ethnic identities were revealed. As they shared more stories, they became close friends.

“We are now telling [our] stories,” Muthumwa says.

Muthumwa says the two have a mission to promote peace and reconciliation because the Bible instructs them to do so in Matthew 9.

“It’s also the mission of CMU,” he says. “It has shaped us.”

Both came to CMU to study theology, but they found PACTS inspiring.

Ultimately, it’s equipping them to work out their beliefs.

After arriving in Canada as immigrants in the late 2000s, both felt unable to speak about

their past. Mutabazi once stopped attending classes for a week after a lecturer’s stories of ethnic genocide triggered his own memories and left him in shock. “ T h e s e a re d e e p, d e e p wounds,” says Mutabazi, who lost his parents to horrific violence.

He says facing the future requires truly understanding the past.

“CMU is helping us speak of where we have come from, where we are now – digging for knowledge and learning – and planning now for our future to go and meet survivors and help bring them together for reconciliation.”

As ministers, both have planted churches in Congo, in exile, and now, in Canada.

Mutabazi started Shalom Christian Outreach and Muthumwa founded Philadelphia Miracle. Both Winnipeg congregations serve immigrants from Africa and other parts of the world and Canadian citizens.

Ambassadors of reconciliation Bringing unity to their people is a difficult process, but Mutabazi and Muthumwa believe that telling their story is crucial to finding unity and forgiveness. They have watched young people create space through music. “(In Congo), people are using the youth for fighting. Let us use our youth and our leaders to have a dialogue,” Mutabazi says.

Congolese youth from across congregations formed a band that regularly plays at Congolese church services and events across the city, bringing together communities that otherwise have little contact.

“Our goal is not to end here; it is to also go back home. We have so many spiritual leaders not aware of peace,” Muthumwa says.

After seeing the potential significance of their work for the greater African community, Mutabazi and Muthumwa started

Theo Muthumwa (left) and Shadrack Mutabazi (right)

From listening to helping They also look with hope to the greater Winnipeg community.

“Most people here, we’ve found, are listeners,” says Muthumwa, “but we want them to go to the next step.”

“Your grandparents came to Canada, and they struggled.

PHOTO: MATTHEW VEITH

Enemies become gospel friends

Reconciliation Initiatives and Healing for African People.

“We believe that leaders are servants of God who can be ambassadors of reconciliation to bring people together,” Mutabazi adds.

“The studies we got from CMU are a bridge,” Muthumwa says. “We want to start first with those Congolese here, to create a sense of dialogue, and to create also dialogue in Africa.”

We are also facing these kinds of struggles – being in a new place, no family, no one to show you what to do. We need people to welcome us.”

Matthew Veith is a graduate of the communications program at Canadian Mennonite University.

The sun of love

PHOTO: COURTESY GLENCAIRN CHURCH

WINNIPEG

Implementing a solar project is one way Glencairn Church, Kitchener, Ont., lives out Jesus’ command to love your neighbour. June 8, 2014, Glencairn Church officially launched a 10 kW array of solar panels on the church roof.

A small group within the congregation spearheaded the solar initiative, motivated by the belief that caring for God’s creation shows thankfulness and respect to God, and helps people in poverty around the world who are often most affected by climate change.

A Solar City Initiative grant helped offset the $44,000 capital costs. Glencairn’s solar array is projected to pay for itself within 7 to 10 years. The panels are expected to generate 10,000 kWh of power per year, fed back into the Ontario power grid.

Excess funds generated will go back into the church’s charitable work, like the flagship Bridges ministry that distributes clothing and food to some 110 families from 81 countries, speaking 63 different languages.—Sandra Reimer is a member of Glencairn Church, Kitchener, Ont. MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD August 2014

23

WINNIPEG

CCMBC helps pastor go to school more I study, the more I “The want to be the best follower

of Christ that I can be,” says seminary student Kathy McCamis.

“Jesus came to bring Good News; my life should look like good news to people around me.”

A graduate student at Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary Canada on the Canadian Mennonite University campus, McCamis says learning about God ’s mission in the world strengthens her desire to demonstrate God’s love and compassion for people.

McCamis served part-time as the pastor of Fort Garry Mennonite Brethren (FGMB) Church’s junior high ministries for four years. She left this position in 2013 to pursue seminary studies while continuing her part-time job as an occupational therapist in Winnipeg.

24

“I discovered through being in pastoral ministry that I wanted to learn more about the big picture of ministry,” she says. “What is the church to be theologically? Why do we do what we do? How does what we do connect with our faith?”

Part of the family Through her involvement in youth ministries, McCamis developed an interest in helping new believers to feel part of a church family.

“It can be a hard transition for people who didn’t grow up in a church culture,” she says. “They want to follow Jesus but have a difficult time finding their way into the church. How can we bridge their youth group experience to being part of the community?”

S he f i nd s a n s we r s a nd resources to these and other questions through classroom study and

August 2014 www.mbherald.com

interaction with instructors and students.

“I love envisioning new ways of being a church,” she says. “How can we change the packaging without changing the theological core and without altering what we as MBs believe?”

A relative newcomer to the MB church, McCamis enjoys learning about the history of Anabaptism and the global fellowship of MB churches. “It gives me a deeper appreciation for the church family I have joined,” she says.

As a recipient of the Canadian Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches (CCMBC) leadership training matching grant, McCamis has 50 percent of her tuition costs covered by CCMBC and FGMB who each provide 25 percent of the total.

God’s call to pastoral ministry, and how pastors are called and affirmed by churches.

Learning about God’s mission in this world, she says, lends itself to thinking deeply about the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and the call to be disciples.

“Churches need to follow Jesus faithfully,” she says. “The call to discipleship is about having compassion for the marginalized, awareness of social issues and a love for people. It is important to Answering the call As McCamis writes her thesis love and serve others.”—Gladys on the call to ministry, she is espe- Terichow, CCMBC writer cially interested in examining how For more information about the MB churches mentor and encour- Leadership Training Matching age women and men to discern Grant, go to mennonitebrethren.ca.

PHOTO: GLADYS TERICHOW

NE WS in stor y

FA M I LY news TR ANSITIONS The Alberta Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches welcomed Paul J. Loewen as conference minister, based in Calgary, July 1, 2014. Paul recently finished a transitional pastorate at Waterloo (Ont.) MB Church and has previously served 20 years as pastor in rural and urban congregations in various roles from youth pastor to lead. He also worked in development and church relations at Columbia Bible College, Abbotsford, B.C., and in the marketplace in construction and business. A graduate of Briercrest Bible College, Caronport, Sask.; University of Waterloo, Ont.; MBBS Fresno, Cal.; Paul also served on the Canadian conference executive board for more than a decade, the last four years in the capacity of moderator. “Paul brings a deep love for God, the church and its mission along with a wide variety of experience that is well-suited to serving in Alberta,” says Alberta moderator Kerry Dyck. Paul and Melody have 3 adult sons.

Kelowna Gospel Fellowship welcomed Jamie Roy as children’s ministries pastor in May 2014. Jamie comes from the world of education, where she has taught and counselled at all levels of elementary and high school. She has a background in ministry through Young Life and in churches in Canada and the U.S., and has a master’s degree in counselling. Jamie and Dave have 3 adult children and 2 adopted children from China.

Kevin and Sherri Guenther Trautwein will share the assistant pastor position at Lendrum MB Church, Edmonton, beginning Aug. 18, 2014. Kevin holds a BA from Ambrose University College, Calgary, and an MTS from Conrad Grebel University College, Waterloo, Ont. Sherri holds a BTh from Ambrose University College, an MTS from McMaster Divinity College, and is currently working on her PhD through Wycliffe College at the University of Toronto. They have 1 son.

Ingrid Reichard concluded her ministry as senior pastor of The Dwelling Place, Kitchener, Ont., where she served since 2008.

Aug. 5, 2014, she takes on the role of pastor of development at Glencairn Church, Kitchener.

Ingrid and Scott have 2 sons.

James Penner began as lead pastor at Faith River Christian Fellowship, Saskatoon, Aug. 1, 2014. He holds a BRE from Columbia Bible

College, Abbotsford, B.C., and previously pastored in Central B.C. and at Ross Road Community Church, Abbotsford, 2004–2009.

James and Trisha have 4 children.

Associate pastor since 2011, Tyler Hagan concluded his service at Coaldale (Alta.) MB Church on July 31, 2014. He has accepted a call to be discipleship pastor at Westview Baptist Church, Calgary.

Ken Braun is concluding his role as lead pastor at Hyde Creek Community Church, Port Coquitlam, B.C., after 12 years. He plans to do construction work and study for the remainder of 2014 before resuming pastoral work.

Ken previously served for 10 years in North Peace MB Church, Fort St. John, B.C., in an associate pastoral position focused on youth.

Dan Nicholson concluded almost 9 years as senior pastor of South Abbotsford (B.C.) MB Church, June 29, 2014.

BIRTHS

Columbia Bible College bid farewell to 2 long-term biblical and theological studies professors at the end of the 2013/2014 school year. John Vooys, who retired in 2008 but continued to teach New Testament Survey to first-year students, brought his 35 years with the college to a close. He also served 2 terms as acting academic dean. Previously a secondary school teacher, he joined Columbia faculty in 1979, shortly after graduating from MBBS, Fresno, Cal. “John has been a model of faithfulness to Jesus and the church, to his wife and family, and to all of us here at Columbia,” wrote colleague Ken Esau in an online tribute. Ron Voth joined the faculty in 1981, bringing his experience as a youth pastor at Fairview MB Church, St. Catharines, Ont., and his honed acting abilities from working with MB Communications’ television production Third Story. Through innovative teaching methods, “Ron help[ed] students get excited about biblical books like Corinthians or Timothy and encourage[ed] them to pursue personal growth projects,” says Esau.

GOOSEN – to Steve & Donna (Scheer) of Abbotsford, B.C., a daughter, Quinn Alena, June 21, 2014.

SERGER – to Morgan & Krista (Heier) of Thompson, Man., a son, Enoch Samuel, May 20, 2014.

BOLDT – to Steven & Angie (Quiring) of Abbotsford, B.C., a son, Asher Silas, June 10, 2014.

GUENTHER – to Casey & Christina of Boissevain, Man., a daughter, Nellie Jeanette, Feb. 26, 2014.

THOMAS – to Chris & Krystal (Amendt) of Fort St. John, B.C., a son, Zephan David, June 12, 2014.

DUECK – to Mick & Tanya of Boissevain, Man., a daughter, Adelyn Joy, May 11, 2014.

HANNAH – to Dustin & Jodi of Foam Lake, Sask., a daughter, Kaebri May, Apr. 4, 2014.

ENNS – to Kevin & Kendra (Reimer) of Warman, Sask., a daughter, Madison Grace, May 20, 2014.

ISAAK – to Jeremy & Amanda (Toews) of Yarrow, B.C., a son, Micah Benjamin, June 13, 2014.

FAST – to Curtis & Melody of Yarrow, B.C., a son, Braden Robert, June 15, 2014.

PENNER – to Colin & Lori of Elm Creek, Man., a daughter, Annalise Grace, June 4, 2014.

WINKLER – to Matthew & Rachel (Hamm) of Steinbach, Man., a daughter, Molly Elizabeth, Dec. 13, 2013.

FINCH – to Darren & Ericka of Oakville, Man., a daughter, Selah Grace, Jan. 12, 2014.

REIMER – to Brad & Karla of Boissevain, Man., a daughter, Gemma Danae, May 5, 2014.

WINKER – to Michael & Lolita of Steinbach, Man., a son, Roran Robert, May 25, 2014.

BAGE – to Justin & Brenda of Winnipeg, a daughter, Kiersten Elin, Apr. 25, 2014.

VANDEN ENDEN – to Michael & Tabitha (Cooper) of St. Catharines, Ont., a son, Felix Matthew, May 16, 2014.

WHETTER – to Michael & Kendra of Boissevain, Man., a son, Cole Stephen, Mar. 2, 2014.

WEDDINGS ruce DICK of Elm B Creek, Man., & Kayla FRIESEN of Oak Bluff, Man., June 14, 2014. arcy GOERZEN of D Fannystelle, Man., & Kaylee LARAMEE of St. Eustache, Man., Feb. 15, 2014.

Todd GUNTHER of Fort St. John, B.C., & Eva BRAUN of Prespatou, B.C., Apr. 26, 2014. rad KLASSEN of B Altona, B.C., & Atali DIRKS of Cecil Lake, B.C., Apr. 12, 2014.

J ustin PENNER of Stettler, Alta., & Danielle PAULS of Fort. St. John, B.C., Apr. 12, 2014.

Josef REICH & Melanie GOERTZEN, both of Steinbach, Man., May 24, 2014.

MENNONITE BRETHREN HERALD August 2014

25

MBBS Canada is hiring!

Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary Canada is currently inviting applications for the following positions: 1. Advancement Officer for Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario (0.5): The Advancement Officer assists the president in promoting the vision of MBBS Canada’s mandate of educating and equipping leaders who enable the church to reach Canada and the world for Christ.

2. Director of Extended Learning (0.6): The Director of Extended Learning will facilitate the development and delivery of non-formal lifelong learning resources and opportunities on behalf of MBBS Canada in the areas of spiritual renewal, biblical and theological enrichment, and the acquisition and/or enhancement of leadership skills.

Detailed descriptions can be found at www.mbseminary.ca/employment

British Columbia

MCC is a church-based agency that serves in the name of Christ by providing relief, development and peace initiatives in over 60 countries. MCC British Columbia supports the international work of MCC and operates several local programs that serve needs here at home. MCC BC has an operating budget of $10 million with 75 staff and 3,000 volunteers who work in 10 thrift shops and a range of other activities.

We also own several subsidiary enterprises that operate local programs and hold legacy investments.

Employment Opportunities Finance and Administration Director The Finance & Administration Director is a new position that reports to the Executive Director and is responsible for all financial services related to the operations of MCC BC, and also provides expertise and oversight related to subsidiary enterprises. Administrative responsibilities include property, office equipment, information systems, and insurance.

Qualifications include: certification in a professional accounting association, proven track record in a related leadership role, knowledge and experience related to the charitable sector, proficiency with computer systems and accounting software, experience with policy development, and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.

Advancement Director The Advancement Director reports to the Executive Director and is responsible for all fundraising, marketing and communications activities including direct mail, monthly giving, major donors, fundraising events, media, church relations, planned giving, marketing a wide range of MCC activities, and creating new initiatives to engage our constituency and expand the donor base.

Qualifications include: proven track record as a leader in fundraising and communications, experience with related best practices, passion for networking and constituency relations, effective communicator in various mediums, proficiency with fundraising software, aptitude for creating innovative strategies for growth, and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.

MCC workers are required to have a personal Christian faith, active church participation, a commitment to non-violent peacemaking, and support for the mission of MCC. Please send a cover letter and resume to - Attention: Human Resources (confidential) MCC BC, Box 2038, 31414 Marshall Rd., Abbotsford, B.C. V2T 3T8 Or by fax to: 1-604-850-8734, or by email to: hrdirector@mccbc.com 26

August 2014  www.mbherald.com

Check www.mccbc.ca for more information on MCC and this job posting.

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According to one CNN report, 75% of the sex workers in the Netherlands at the moment originate from Eastern European countries such as Romania.

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“The best sacred concert I’ve ever heard, anywhere.”

–Franz Mohr, Steinway

Experience the Glory!

34 singers and 8 instrumentalists from

Kyiv Symphony Orchestra and Chorus Wes and Kim Janzen Slavic a cappella Sung and spoken prayers Hymns and spirituals, sacred classics Timeless instrumental chamber music Stories and testimonies of God’s grace Rich Ukrainian voices, hearty Ukrainian folk music SEPTEMBER 9th – Chilliwack Alliance Church, 7 pm 10th – Bakerview MB, Abbotsford, 2 pm and 7 pm 11th – University Chapel, UBC, 7 pm 12th – Clearbrook MB Church, 7 pm 13th – Bakerview MB, Abbotsford, 7 pm 14th – Willingdon Church, Burnaby, 7 pm 15th – North Langley Community Church, 7 pm 16th – Bethany Baptist Church, Richmond, 7 pm 18th – BC interior need venue * 19th – Evangel Church, Kelowna, 7 pm 20th – Alberta foothills need venue * 21st – First Baptist Church, Calgary, 7 pm 22nd – First Alliance Church, Calgary, 7 pm 23rd, 24th – need Edmonton area venue * 25th, 26th – need Saskatoon area venue * 27th – need Regina area venue * 28th – Calvary Temple, Winnipeg, 6 pm (with KVI) 30th – Westminster United Church, Winnipeg, 7 pm OCTOBER 2nd – Winkler Centenial Concert Hall, 7 pm 28

August 2014 www.mbherald.com

3rd – Steinbach MB Church, 7 pm 4th – Hope Church, Thunder Bay, 7:30 pm 6th – need venue * 7th – Ottawa venue tba 8th – Yorkminister Park Baptist Church, Toronto, 7 pm 9th – Waterloo MB Church 10th – Scott Street MB, St. Catharines, 2 pm 10th – Glenridge Bible Church, St. Catharines, 7 pm 11th – Leamington United MB Church, 2 pm and 7 pm * Contact Janzen@twu.ca if your church loves missions and great music and desires to host a wonderful sacred concert and our fine Ukrainian musicians.

The Kyiv Symphony Orchestra and Chorus (KSOC) is the evangelistic arm of Music Mission Kiev (MMK). KSOC shares the gospel through great sacred classics, which were once forbidden in the former USSR. MMK provides spiritual and humanitarian assistance to over 375 widows and pensioners and cares for a growing number of refugees in Ukraine.

A free-will offering will be taken to support the evangelistic and humanitarian ministries of Music Mission Kiev. MMK is an agent of Multination Missions Foundation.

Lead Pastor

C H U R C H S TA FF Part-time Pastor

Cornerstone MB Church, Prince Rupert, B.C., is seeking an experienced, part-time pastor to minister to a congregation of approximately 40 people. The successful candidate will provide leadership, vision and pastoral care to the congregation and offer the varied and flexible skills required in a smaller setting. The candidate should carry the call of pastor/teacher with a strong evangelistic leaning and have a love for both the church and unchurched in the community. Although not essential, musical abilities would be a great asset. Applications with a cover letter and resume should be made to mbchurch@citytel.net, attention Mr. B. Buhr or call 250-627-1033.

Senior Pastor

Gateway Community Church, Port Alberni, B.C., is prayerfully seeking a senior pastor. Our close-knit community of 40 adults and 20 kids is in need of a full-time pastor who will join with us in reaching our picturesque valley for the Lord. We are seeking someone who is mature, with life experience both in and outside of ministry and experience in mentoring. This person will come alongside us and empower us in our giftings to reach our city. For more info please see our posting at jobs.mbherald.com.

St. Ann’s (Ont.) Community Church welcomes applicants for the position of lead pastor. Our church is located 3–5 miles east of Smithville, Ont., in the Niagara Peninsula. We are a congregation of 113 active members with an average weekly attendance of 150–160. Our website is www.stannscommunitychurch.ca. Please send resumes to the elders board c/o David Lackey, board chair, email: davidlackey67@gmail.com.

Lead Pastor

Community Bible Church in Olathe, Kan., USA, is seeking a full-time lead pastor for our congregation of approximately 250.

Inquiries or resumes should be sent to Pastor Search Team, Community Bible Church, 1304 N. Parker, Olathe, KS 66061, USA, or emailed to dale.cbcpst@gmail.com.

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29

Finish lines

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.—2 Timothy 4:7

David Jacob Dick Sept. 8, 1919–Nov. 28, 2013

BIRTHPLACE: Apanlee, Ukraine PARENTS: Jacob David Dick & Marie Toews-Dick MARRIAGE: Mary Janzen, Nov. 16, 1942 [d. 1968] CHURCH: Philadelphia MB, Watrous, Sask.

FAMILY: children Wanda Schmidt, Catherine Penner, Robert; 7 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren

Unrest in Ukraine led David’s family to immigrate when he was 5. After his father learned cheesemaking in Ontario, the family moved to Guernsey district, Sask. David helped on the farm. The family attended Philadelphia MB Church, Watrous, Sask., where David remained a faithful member throughout his adult life, teaching youth Sunday school and serving as church secretary. After David married Mary, they farmed together. David served as school trustee. He enjoyed soft ball, shinny hockey and billiards. David never missed Hockey Night in Canada nor the evening news.

He readily discussed history, politics and current events. After Mary’s death to cancer, David remained on the farm, later joined by his son.

John A. Bergen May 15, 1954–Jan. 6, 2014

BIRTHPLACE: St. Catharines, Ont. PARENTS: Abram & Elisabeth Bergen MARRIAGE: Deborah Thiessen, Oct. 24, 1986 BAPTISM: St. Catharines United Mennonite, 1973 CHURCH: Grace MB, Waterloo, Ont. FAMILY: Debbie; sons Andrew, Stephen; 4 sisters

John graduated from Lakeport High School, St. Catharines, Ont., in 1973, then attended Niagara College, Welland, Ont. Debbie caught his eye when John was in his early 20s, and they dated, but John wasn’t ready to settle down. He moved to Abbotsford, B.C., then to Calgary, where he drove truck for Palliser Furniture. He returned to St. Catharines in his 30s, earning a BA in communications from Brock University in 1988. He also reconnected with Debbie. They married in 1986 and moved to Kitchener-Waterloo, Ont., in 1989, when John began working as a customer account representative at Babcock and Wilcox. His eye for quality was evident in his taste in cars, clothes, music, wine and food. John was a hardworking, dedicated family man respected for his integrity

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August 2014 www.mbherald.com

and commitment to home, church and work relationships and responsibilities. He made many fond family memories camping and golfing. On an exceptionally cold night, John suffered a massive heart attack while shovelling snow with his sons.

Zipporah Rene Fehr

autobiography, Beyond the Border. She led prayer meetings, Bible studies and InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. Maria enjoyed music, flowers and hospitality. Above all, she loved Jesus. She spent her last years at Tabor Manor, St. Catharines, Ont., ministering in residence as long as she could.

Maria was self-supporting, placing Jesus first.

Her motto was “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21).

Mar. 13, 2014–Mar. 16, 2014

Selma Miller Apr. 21, 1919–Apr. 19, 2014 BIRTHPLACE: Brandon, Man. PARENTS: Jake & Christine Fehr CHURCH: Boissevain (Man.) MB FAMILY: parents; sisters Elizabeth, Olivia

Zipporah’s funeral was Mar. 20, 2014, at Boissevain (Man.) MB Church, and she was buried in Hochfeld, Man.

Maria Foth Apr. 10, 1918–Apr. 8, 2014

BIRTHPLACE: Gnadental, Ukraine PARENTS: Heinrich I. & Maria (Driediger) Foth BAPTISM: Ibersheim, Germany, May 15, 1946 CHURCH: Scott Street MB, St. Catharines, Ont. FAMILY: niece Valentine (Boris) Lobankova; greatniece Natasha; step-niece Valentine

When Maria was 14, her parents were forcibly moved to Siberia. She forgot her Christian training in atheistic Russian school. Through bitter times, she realized all good came from God, found peace at the feet of her Saviour Jesus and was baptized. Maria missed several boats to Canada because she didn’t receive her boarding pass. She struggled and surrendered her will to God. In 1948, she immigrated to Canada with the help of MCC. Maria graduated from MB Bible College, Winnipeg, with a BTh degree. Her teaching career included 10 years in Russia and Germany. She taught MB Bible College part-time for 5 years and was A.H. Unruh’s secretary for 2 years. Accepted by the mission board in 1954, Maria worked with women and children in Linz, Austria, for 3 years, trusting God to keep her safe from arrest by the Russian army. Maria taught Mennonite high school in B.C., then taught and counselled children in a mission rest home near Lausanne, Switzerland, for 4 years. She attended and taught part-time at University of Waterloo (Ont.). In 1972, her father was permitted to emigrate from Russia; they enjoyed their reunion until his death 4 years later. Maria wrote an

BIRTHPLACE: Kelstern, Sask.

PARENTS: Henry & Maria Mueller CHURCH: Bridgeway, Swift Current, Sask.

FAMILY: 4 siblings; nieces & nephews

After Grade 8, Selma did domestic work. In 1942, she moved to Swift Current, Sask., to work as a waitress and clerk. After improving her skills, she became a bookkeeper for the Revelstoke store until her retirement. Selma enjoyed cooking and hosting. She was a sharp dresser with excellent taste. Quiet and independent, Selma travelled and read extensively, keeping up on local, national and international affairs. She took pride in singing with the Swift Current Oratorio Choir. As long as Selma was able, she helped older friends with shopping and income tax. She prepared her own taxes until age 92, holding high standards in all her paperwork. Diminished confidence in driving, and the subsequent loss of independence, was difficult for Selma.

Nicholas (Nick) Neufeld June 17, 1924–Apr. 19, 2014 BIRTHPLACE: Davlekanovo, Russia PARENTS: N.J. & Susanna Neufeld MARRIAGE: Irene Janzen, Sept. 25, 1949 BAPTISM: Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, October 1948 CHURCH: Willingdon, Burnaby, B.C. FAMILY: Irene; children Irene Swanson, David (Luella), Leona; 4 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; 3 siblings

Nick was a WWII conscientious objector, serving his country as an orderly at Brandon (Man.) Mental Hospital. He decided to follow Christ as a young man. He taught high school in The Pas, Man., and at Mennonite Collegiate Institute, Gretna, Man., where he had met Irene. He

earned a master of science from University of Manitoba, where he taught microbiology for 2 years. In 1956, he joined the microbiology lab at the department of fisheries, Vancouver, until his retirement in 1989. Nick’s strongest gift was communication, despite the fact that he was deaf most of his life. His involvement at Willingdon Church invigorated him. Nick’s interests included Canadian and Mennonite history, music, art, literature, sports, photography and politics. He maintained animated correspondence with friends and family. Nick was a gifted storyteller and a committed husband, father and grandfather. Hours before he died, Nick told his family, “No regrets. I love you all,” and prayed for them.

in Cultus Lake, B.C. With their sense of adventure, they didn’t like to stay in one place long, moving between Surrey, Squamish, Duncan, Salmon Arm, Chilliwack, Quesnel and Merritt, B.C., and retiring to Abbotsford, B.C. After Allan recommitted himself to the Lord while living in The Pas, Man., in 1972, he and Maxine were active in the local church, leading Bible studies and prayer groups. Allan was extremely proud and fiercely protective of his family. A good provider, Allan was a self-made man who worked hard.

He led many to a saving relationship with Jesus.

With his heart for service, Allan volunteered with the cancer agency and ran errands for people who were shut-in. A gifted tenor, he sang with the Vancouver Bach Choir. Since Maxine’s death, he longed for heaven.

Henry Hamm Harms Sept. 25, 1931–May 1, 2014

Gordon Martin Oct. 23, 1937–May 9, 2014

BIRTHPLACE: Steinbach, Man. PARENTS: Johann & Sara Harms MARRIAGE: Elsie Klassen, June 12, 1960 BAPTISM: Burwalde MB (now Winkler MB), Steinbach (Man.) MB FAMILY: Elsie; children Linda (Danny) Hiebert, Luella (Hans) Rahn, Sheldon (Sandi); 7 grandchildren; 1 great-granddaughter; special son Tim (Kara) Janzen; 3 special grandchildren; 4 siblings

Henry grew up on a farm near Steinbach and attended Bristol (Man.) school for 8 years. He accepted Jesus as Saviour at an early age. He attended Winkler (Man.) Bible Institute. A man with a memorable handshake, Henry loved serving as usher for 30 years at Steinbach MB Church. Here he met Elsie, and they purchased a farm near Bristol. After his 2005 diagnosis of chronic leukemia, Henry farmed 7 more years.

Chemo in 2013 sent the cancer into remission, and he continued working. Henry’s greatest joy was farming with his brother and son.

Allan Hugo Siemens

BIRTHPLACE: Peel Township, Ont. PARENTS: Elo & Minerva Martin MARRIAGE: Marie Frey, Sept. 27, 1980 CHURCH: Glencairn MB, Kitchener, Ont. FAMILY: Marie; children Donna (Robert) Snyder, Doug (Barb) Frey, Wanda (Herbert) Frey-Martin, Larry (Karen) Frey, Pamela Frey (Colleen Daly), Michael Frey (Tara Duguid); 16 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; 6 siblings

Gordon had many adventures with his siblings on their farm near Kitchener-Waterloo, Ont. After graduating from seminary in Indiana, he married Marie and became an instant, loving dad to her 6 children. Gordon pastored 8 churches in the Evangelical Mennonite Conference with Marie at his side. When Gordon retired, he and Marie became members at Glencairn MB Church and served the caring and visitation program. Gordon was a quiet, gentle man who put nurturing his relationship with Jesus and doing God’s work first. Family gave him much joy. He prayed with each of his grandchildren on their birthday.

Nov. 12, 1929–May 8, 2014

BIRTHPLACE: Hepburn, Sask.

PARENTS: John & Helen Siemens MARRIAGE: Maxine, Mar. 10, 1950 [d. 2008] CHURCH: Clearbrook MB, Abbotsford, B.C. FAMILY: children Joan (Jeff) Thompson, Roger (Gail), Randall (Jennifer), Richard (Arlene), Doug (Lana), Mitchell (Pamela); 57 grandchildren & greatgrandchildren; 1 brother

Allan accepted Jesus as Saviour as a child. He became first aid attendant for a saw mill, progressing to foreman, superintendent, manager and general manager in the industry. He met Maxine

Naomi Ruth Giesbrecht Mar. 18, 1925–May 9, 2014 BIRTHPLACE: Dalmeny, Sask.

PARENTS: Jacob & Maria (Rempel) Krause MARRIAGE: Cornelius Giesbrecht, May 27, 1945 BAPTISM: Yarrow, B.C., July 26, 1941 CHURCH: Bakerview, Abbotsford, B.C. FAMILY: Cornelius; children Ron, Dennis (Vicki), Debbie (Jim) Supeene; 7 grandchildren including Jessica Lynn Supeene [d.]; 5 great-grandchildren; 5 siblings

Hulda Nickel Aug. 7, 1925–May 12, 2014

BIRTHPLACE: Borden, Sask.

PARENTS: Peter A. & Katarina (Goertz) Nickel CHURCH: South Abbotsford (B.C.) MB; Bakerview, Abbotsford FAMILY: 4 siblings; nieces & nephews

After attending Mennonite Educational Institute, Abbotsford, B.C., Hulda pursued her childhood dream of being a nurse. She graduated from VGH school of nursing with an RN degree.

She worked in Menno Hospital, MSA Hospital, Grace Hospital in Vancouver and Sherwood Crescent Manor, Abbotsford. She served youth as camp nurse at Columbia Bible Camp (now Stillwood Camp and Conference Centre). Hulda lived with pericarditis, endocarditis and a weak immune system. A strong intercessory pray-er, she regularly sent letters to encourage her missionary brothers and their families. Hulda was well-known at South Abbotsford MB and Bakerview churches, but for her last 20 years, chronic illness prevented her from attending.

She stayed in touch with Bakerview by reading church bulletins and listening to the sermons on tape.

John William Booth June 5, 1933–May 16, 2014

BIRTHPLACE: Vancouver MARRIAGE: Kathryn (Kay) Morrison, 1958 BAPTISM: North Peace MB, Fort St. John, B.C. FAMILY: Kay; children Michael (Michele Berg), Heather (Lorne) Willms, Bawne; 2 grandchildren

Raised by his aunt and uncle in Jasper, Alta., John returned to the West Coast in his teens.

He served in the navy in the mid-1950s, marrying Kay upon his discharge in 1958. In 1966, the family moved to Fort St. John, B.C., where John worked at the McMahon oil refinery, first as steam engineer, later as millwright. After leaving Petro Canada, he worked at the Fort St. John airport until retirement. An accomplished gardener, John volunteered for the horticultural society, Fort St. John’s fire department and the North Peace Fall Fair. He hated stray cats in his garden, sparrows in his barn swallow nesting boxes, drivers talking on cellphones.

John found joy sailing, fishing, travelling, visiting friends, relaxing at his cabin on Charlie Lake, B.C., and playing Santa Claus, and he loved his dog Cody.

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JOHANN E. PRITZKAU, TRANS. WALTER REGEHR Kindred Productions his book is a surprisingly fruitful historical artifact that will prove useful to readers seeking a fuller perspective on both the early Baptist and Mennonite Brethren communities in Russia. Understood as a snapshot of the churches in the late 1800s, it offers a valuable first-hand perspective and will be a worthwhile addition to many a library.—Brian Cooper, MBBS

debate at all since Adam is mentioned quite often in the Bible and it seems Jesus and Paul believed Adam was historical. However, behind this book lies recent scientific developments where committed Christians studying the human genome suggest the idea of a single biological pair (from whom every human being originated) is contrary to what our own genes tell us. Four authors face off in this volume, some arguing this is not a big deal while others cry out that no less than the gospel and salvation are at stake, leaving us the unenviable task of deciding which is most convincing.—Ken Esau, biblical studies, Columbia Bible College

cal, economic and religious climate.

Walter Brueggemann, one of the world’s pre-eminent Old Testament scholars, believes that the prophets of the Old Testament, in responding to Israel’s exilic crisis of 587 BC, offer the resources needed to move, with great soul-searching and honesty, through and beyond the current crisis. Brueggemann’s work, as always, is insightful and challenging in the way he understands both Israel’s prophets and today’s challenges. If you care about either, this book will give you much to wrestle with.—Jerry Pauls, CBC

Four Views on The Historical Adam

Reality, Grief, Hope: Three Urgent Prophetic Tasks

BRAD HUEBERT Self-published e-book

MATTHEW BARRETT AND ARDEL CANEDAY, EDS. Zondervan t might seem that the question of the historicity of Adam should have no

T

CURRENT books German Baptists in South Russia

T

I

WALTER BRUEGGEMANN Eerdmans Publishing he events of 9-11 signalled a crisis in the U.S. that is still felt in an uncertain politi-

Go with the flow: A non-religious approach to your daily time with God

G

o with the flow: A non-religious approach to your daily time with God wins the award for the most ironically titled devotional how-to book. This short volume offers an accessible, honest and genuinely helpful way to do personal devotions, but in perhaps the most refreshingly religious way possible.—Aaron Thiessen, McIvor Avenue MB Church, Winnipeg

NET worth www.grievingtogether.ca

W

www.kindredproductions.com 1-800-545-7322 kindred@mbchurches.ca 32

August 2014 www.mbherald.com

hen Julie Mjelve lost her husband in 2011, longing for an outward expression of her grief, she tied a black ribbon around her wedding ring. This February, Mjelve founded grievingtogether.ca to provide others with symbols of bereavement – pins, ribbons, bracelets and cards. The site offers gentle stories and videos for friends, hospice workers and individuals facing loss, from how to live well with chronic illness to planning a meaningful memorial. Links lead to Focus on the Family phone counsellors and Grief Share groups in both Canada and the U.S.A.—AS

Intersection

of faith & life

Drinking from the garden hose of Truth SANDRA REIMER

M

aaike Anderson’s Hindu neighbours Harry and Colly were in crisis: their six-year-old son had terminal cancer. Maaike offered to look after their two-year-old girl so Harry could visit Ronnie at Toronto’s Sick Kids hospital where Colly was staying around the clock. To encourage Colly, Maaike gave Harry some Scripture verses to pass on to her.

The Bible contains Living Water for both Christians and those who don’t yet know Christ. But it seems the church in Canada neglects to drink from God’s Truth.

Most Christians don’t read the Bible Considering the steep decline in church attendance in our nation since 1996, I wasn’t shocked to learn that the majority of Canadians seldom or never read the Bible. The Canadian Bible Forum and the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada detailed this in a 2013 survey of Scripture reading and Bible-engagement patterns of 4,500 Canadians.

What surprised me is that only 14 percent of Christians report reading their Bibles at least once per week – down from 27 percent in 1996.

Evangelicals do account for 43 percent of all regular Scripture readers – but there’s still less than half of us reading the Good Book weekly.

Why people don’t read Scripture Stunned, I delved deeper into the study and discovered what prevents people from reading the Bible. Those who believe the Bible is divinely inspired are 10 times more likely to read it regularly. Unfortunately, only 18 percent of Christians consider the collection of Old and New Testament books (written over some 1,400 years) to be God’s Word.

Why people do To get individual perspectives on the issue of Bible reading, I spoke with

two friends from Glencairn Church who are passionate about God and actively on mission with him.

Twenty-six-year-old Jacob Chandler, an MB Mission staff member, finds daily value in engaging with the Bible. “It wasn’t really until I went to university that I started reading Scripture more and that it became real to me,” he says. He finds memorizing large chunks of God’s Word transformational.

A nurse now in her early 60s, Maaike says though she went to Sunday school and church as a child, the fact that the Bible is God’s Word didn’t hit home for her until she was in her mid-20s.

While receiving medical treatment for depression, Maaike realized she needed to replace the misery-producing lies she told herself with truths from the Bible. “Even though I knew the Bible stories, I needed a reminder of God’s truth daily.”

My own battles with mental illness have led me to read and memorize Scripture to stave off the piranhas of anxiety. There is nothing like the double-edged sword of God’s Word to slice through depressed and anxious thoughts that threaten to overwhelm.

Sharing a sip of Living Water Jacob also talks to others about the Bible, including neighbours in his impoverished Kitchener, Ont., community.

“If you are reading Scripture daily and someone asks about God, it’s not hard to recite what you read early in the morning and how it impacted you.

That’s how I like to treat evangelism.”

Instead of delivering an elevator speech, Jacob passes the garden hose and offers fresh insight from God’s Word.

As Maaike learned, the Bible brings hope to those who don’t know Christ.

Maaike and her husband Dave had also recommended that Harry read the book of John. Harry was comforted by the John 9 story about the man born blind. According to Hindu teachings, if a child has cancer, the parents or child are somehow at fault. Yet, Jesus says that neither the blind man nor his parents had sinned.

God revealed his love to Harry and Colly through the Bible and his people.

“It was through their son dying that they became Christians – really through God’s Word,” says Maaike.

Turning on the tap Jesus wants to fill our minds with his thoughts and our hearts with hope.

But he can’t do that unless we open our mouths wide and drink from his Word.

When our own thirst is assuaged, we can share the garden hose of Truth with others in times of need.

Have you turned on the tap lately?

Sandra Reimer lives in Kitchener, Ont., where she reluctantly grows a backyard garden but joyfully drinks from God’s garden hose of Truth. She is a member of Glencairn Church.

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Ideal Conditions

T

he clouds sit low and heavy over the mountains, blurring the horizon.

So very grey. The lone orange buoy on Harrison Lake lilts and sways with the gentle waves. The waters are calm while the rain pockmarks the surface, an interrupted peace.

From my cabin window, I spot two loons out for breakfast. They look at each other. One dives, and the other disappears. Together they resurface far from where they started. They seem oblivious to the rain.

I am not so immune to the weather.

The weight of the morning rests on me. And yet I also feel peace. So little is expected of me when the sky says “stay indoors.” No call to paddle, or 34

August 2014 www.mbherald.com

hike, or explore or even move outdoors.

Just sit.

This lake view is a metaphor for my new life. There is a dull, uneventful quality to my days. The foggy blurring of the scenery reminds me of the undefined time I’m in. Today, I don’t have clear sight of what’s across the lake.

Sunny days A few years ago, in a different season of life, the mountains were crisp, trees evident, sun danced on water and radiated light and life.

On a sunny Harrison vacation three years ago, Bill and I kayaked in afternoon waters of unprecedented stillness. I paddled slowly down the

shoreline, celebrating my propulsion of the boat. With the goal of reaching a sailboat moored in a harbour, I gently cut through the water, one stroke at a time, and drank in the beauty of the day. Ideal conditions!

But as we meandered toward the sailboat, I thought about the phrase “ideal conditions,” and it occurred to me that the very conditions we deemed perfect had actually paralyzed the sailor. His boat remained anchored in the cove with no winds to power it. I wondered if he sat on shore with a case of the doldrums.

Grey skies So what are ideal conditions? Often people look at my life and lament that

Shelaine Strom in plenty or in want” (Philippians 4:12).

If I were writing this verse in my context, it would read: “I know what it is to live with intense daily physical pain, so much that I can no longer work and my current life looks like a shadow of what it once included.

And I also know what it’s like to have a loving family, supportive friends, rewarding work and meaningful ways to build into the lives of others.” Most of us can relate to ups and downs, times of joy and times of struggle. health issues keep me from my previous work as career coach and instructor. They express remorse over the losses I’ve experienced and the pain that forces me into this new place of quiet and simplicity.

I find myself asking, did my previous way of life embody ideal conditions? The obvious answer is no. But is it possible I’m living the ideal now?

Perhaps it’s the question that needs to change. Humanly speaking, I doubt two people could agree on the idyllic life. What if the goal isn’t the ideal but contentment in any situation? Paul writes, “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living

Content in any weather But Paul doesn’t simply acknowledge that life happens. He announces that he’s discovered the secret to being satisfied in whatever circumstances he encounters! So what’s the secret? Paul shares it in verse 13: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” The strength Paul refers to isn’t a one-time gift. It’s Christ’s act of immediate and ongoing empowerment.

God is fortifying me to find contentment, whatever my situation.

As I sit in this rainy day, the mountains that define the lake’s perimeter are vague, distant outlines. But I know they’re here because I’ve seen them and I remember them, and I know that when the clouds descended, nothing really changed.

The same is true spiritually. I choose to recall God’s faithfulness and experiences of his closeness when life feels like a bank of fog. The weather will change.

God will not.

I’ve been particularly encouraged by Marva Dawn’s book Being Well When We’re Ill. Like Dawn, rather than demanding God tell me why I’m sick, I’ve learned to ask, “What is God doing in the midst of this?” and “Where do I catch glimpses of the Trinity’s grace?”

As I seek God, not just answers, I see him at work in ways I would otherwise miss.

Gratitude wells up, in spite of my pain, because I know bigger purposes are at work – even when I can’t see them.

Kayaking toward the sailboat that pristine day was easy because I could see where I was going. But to do that same trip today, in the fog, would mean trusting my compass and, in faith, paddling on.

Thirty years ago, I set my compass to Christ, and he continues to guide me in the times of unseen. He is trustworthy and will continue leading me through uncertain waters to my ultimate destination.

Shelaine Strom is a life coach and certified career practitioner who has worked in the career transition industry for over 20 years. A member of Ross Road Community Church, Shelaine is married to Bill and lives in Abbotsford, B.C., where she enjoys a mix of both empty nest and three sons coming and going from university.

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3

MONDAY

Sports camp BETHANY COLLEGE Executive staff

CCMBC Sports camp

CMU

18

11

4

CBC

TUESDAY

19

12

5

Staff & instructors – energy CAMPS Returning short-termers MB Mission COACH training

L2L

WEDNESDAY

Churches

QUEBEC Churches

ONTARIO

13

20

West Bank Bible Camp – teens CAMPS

THURSDAY

Executive board

CCMBC Study conference planning BFL Alberta executive board ABMB

7

14

21

28

Students & faculty

27 BETHANY

Increased resources

26 MBBS

Students & faculty

25 ETEM

6

CCMBC PRAYER CALENDAR SUNDAY

Workers for the harvest C2C

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24 Students & faculty

17

10

SOAR Deutschland

MB Mission Staff & campers – safety CAMPS Scott Thomas C2C Farmers SASK

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22

15

8

1

CANADA

Local churches

MCC

2

9

16

30

23

B.C. story-sharing event

BCMB

Ron Van Akker

L2L

Staff transitions

ATLANTIC PROVINCES

Governments

SATURDAY

August 2014

FRIDAY

Praise God for diverse cultures CANADA

Resources for churches CMBS

Lithuania conference ICOMB

Summer intern

MBCM

Outtatown staff training CMU

“This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come....”

Matthew 6:9–10 Visit mennonitebrethren.ca to sign up to receive the full prayer guide.

August 2014 www.mbherald.com

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