The Canadian Lutheran - July/August 2015 (Corrected)

The

CANADIAN

LUTHERAN

www.canadianlutheran.ca

Volume 30 Number 4

The State of the Canadian Church

Contents Features www.canadianlutheran.ca Volume 30 Number 4 July/August 2015

The Changing Face of Canadian Missions Lutheran Church–Canada in Numbers

New statistics illustrate

challenges facing the church

3 5

Departments Presidential Perspective

Confidence in the Midst of Persecution

34

News Section National News

New Third Vice President for Lutheran Church–Canada • Nolan Astley appointed Interim Pastoral Leader for Alberta and British Columbia • LWMLC plan for the future, Iris Barta reelected • ABC District office to be sold, stay of proceedings extended

ABC District

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Central District

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Outreach at the Fair • New shepherd for Christ the King Edmonton • Grace Lutheran in Drumheller welcomes new pastor • Update from Chief Restructuring Officer

T h e C a n a d i a n L u t h e r a n is the national publication of Lutheran Church–Canada, published in Winnipeg six times per year: January/ February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/ October, November/December under the auspices of the Board of Directors (Committee for Communication and Technology).

ISSN #0383-4247 Member: Canadian Church Press Editor: Mathew Block Advertising: Iris Barta District News Layout: Marion Hollinger Subscriptions: $20/yr E-mail: bcs@lutheranchurch.ca

All material and advertising should be in the office of The Canadian Lutheran five weeks prior to publication date. Advertising rate card available upon request.

The Canadian Lutheran 3074 Portage Ave. Winnipeg, MB R3K 0Y2 Telephone: 204-895-3433 FAX: 204-832-3018 E-mail: communications@lutheranchurch.ca Materials published in The Canadian Lutheran, with the exception of Letters to the Editor, news reports, and advertising, receive doctrinal review and approval before publication. Contents of supplements are the responsibility of the organization purchasing the space. ©2015 Lutheran Church–Canada. Reproduction of a single article or column for parish use does not require the permission of The Canadian Lutheran. Such reproductions, however, should credit The Canadian Lutheran as the source.

S c r i pt u r e t a ke n f ro m t h e H O LY B I B L E , N E W INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishers.

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Ordination in La Ronge • Church family fun • Special service marks church closure • Pastors nurtured at annual preaching retreat • Malabar Mission Society celebrates 25 years • Parade float witness

East District

Resurrection celebrates 50 years • The gifts Christ freely gives • Pilgrim celebrates 50th anniversary of VBS • Every three years the District comes together • A gift of goats

Mission Update

21

25

Another step forward for Nicaraguan children’s computer program

Education Report

Dr. Hellwege to join faculty at Edmonton seminary • CLTS President’s new commentary on Ephesians now available

26

Classifieds

31

Daily Bible Reading

33

Supplement

27

NEWS Summer 2015

OUR MISSION

|

Dr. John Co CEO

Published 285 Benjamin Road, W

Building on our Christian heritage, Lutherwood and beliefs with care and compassion to build a

The Changing Face of Canadian Missions Rising immigration in Canada and the Lutheran response

mmigration is an inherent part of Lutheranism in Canada. Historically, most Lutherans in Canada were German, Scandinavian, or Slavic immigrants and their descendants. The Lutheran link to immigration from those parts of Europe is similar to that seen in other faiths (Roman Catholics from Ireland, for example, or Presbyterians from Scotland). Generally, the historic areas of settlement for German and Scandinavian Lutherans in Canada were the Southwestern, Southeastern, and Northwestern regions of Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia, and a small portion of Western Quebec. The legacy of these early immigrants stands with us today in the form of historic church buildings, names of communities e.g. Lappe and Augsburg, both in Ontario), and of course in the surnames of members of congregations nationwide.

Immigration has shaped the fabric of Christianity and Lutheranism in Canada.

But there have been significant changes in immigration and multiculturalism underway in our country over the last number of decades, and the church is now at the point where it needs to adapt to a very different ethnic reality in Canadian society. The fact is, we are no longer principally a country or church of western and northern European heritage. That’s simply not where new immigrants to our country are coming from today. The increased pluralism of races, ethnicities, and faiths in our country has left many Canadians wondering how best to identify themselves—and it most certainly has left the church in a critical position where it has had to adapt its ministries.

So how are local congregations meeting the challenge?

Earlier this year, World Vision Canada published a book on this subject called Shifting Stats, Shaking The Church: 40 Canadian Churches Respond. The book examines 40 congregations of various denominations across the

country to see how they are responding to the significant demographic shifts that have taken place, including the shift towards mostly nonEuropean immigration and the differences in language, culture, and heritage.

Among the 40 congregations featured in the book is one Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC) congregation: Immanual Lutheran Church in Winnipeg. In recent years, the congregation has welcomed a number of Anyuak-speaking people from Ethiopia.

Immanuel pastor Rev. Dr. Richard Beinert says the first Anyuak visitors began attending one Christmas and found themselves at home because of past Lutheran missionary influence in their home country. The Anyuak membership of Immanuel Lutheran has now grown to the point that services in that language are conducted regularly on Sunday, and African dishes are as common as perogies at potluck meals.

The Anyuak ministry at Immanuel Lutheran in Winnipeg is led by Oboya Ochalla, who arrived in Canada from Ethiopia in 2003. A teacher in his home country, he currently works as a security guard in Winnipeg. He is also studying through LCC’s Pastors with Alternate Training (PAT) program. The PAT program was established in 2002 to train pastors for ministry within specific cultural and ethnic groups in order to meet the needs resulting from THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2015

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Pictured up top: Pastors with Alternate Training Program (PAT) students pose with Concordia Lutheran Seminary President James Gimbel (third from right) during a recent PAT intensive in Edmonton.

I

by James Morgan

changes caused by immigration in Canadian society. In Shifting Stats, Ochalla explains that he was attracted to the Lutheran church partly because of the liturgy, especially the prayer of institution during Holy Communion, the Agnus Dei, and the post-communion canticle.

Outreach to immigrants isn’t just happening at Immanual either. Cross-cultural ministry is taking place all across Lutheran Church–Canada. Winnipeg is also home to a large congregation of Oromos-speakers (from Ethiopia), led by LCC’s first PAT graduate Rev. Assefa Aredo. Another Oromo congregation exists in Calgary.

Another PAT participant, Eduardo Rodrigues, is serving at Faith Lutheran Church in Surrey, British Columbia with the church’s Hispanic members. In addition to services in English and Spanish, Faith Lutheran also conducts services in Chinese, Korean, and Satsung for Indo-Canadians. The fact that ministries are offered in five different languages reflects how the church has adapted to the culturally diverse population of BC’s Lower Mainland. There is also a separate Korean LCC congregation in Vancouver.

In Ontario, Joseph S i n g h — a re c e n t PAT graduate who spent the final part of his education at Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary (CLTS) in St. Catharines— has been called to serve as Assistant Pastor at Our Saviour Lutheran Church in the Toronto suburb of Etobicoke, where there is a significant ministry to Punjabi-speaking Lutherans from India. Toronto is also home to Korean Lutheran Church, located on Sherbourne Street in the downtown area. Nearby in Hamilton, there is a Sudanese mission congregation.

Quebec too is seeing rising interest in confessional Lutheranism among immigrants. In April 2014, Rev. Dr. David Somers, Missionary-at-Large for French Outreach in the East District, reported that many French-speaking Malagasy (Madagascar) Lutherans, and people from Cameroon now attend Église Luthérienne de l’Ascension in Montreal. There are also Malagasy people who are part of LCC congregations in Quebec City and Sherbrooke.

And these are just a few examples—not a complete listing—of confessional Lutherans reaching out with the good news of Christ to their immigrant neighbours.

Rev. Dr. Leonardo Neitzel, LCC’s Executive for Missions and Social Ministry, oversees the Pastors with Alternate Training program at the synod level in conjunction with CLTS and Concordia Lutheran Seminary (CLS) in Edmonton. He explains that, in the past, the pattern of missions for North American churches was always to send missionaries to other countries. Now, as people from various

ethnic communities prepare for ministry in Canada, we are seeing the positive result of the Gospel being proclaimed in other parts of the world decades ago. Dr. Neitzel adds that although the style of worship may be modified to adapt to cultural differences, it is still rooted in the Bible and doctrines of confessional Lutheranism. He also notes that people from some ethnic groups want to be part of the conventional English-speaking congregations while others are more comfortable worshiping in their own language and culture.

The PAT educational regimen is what Dr. Neitzel calls “on the job training.” The process is designed to take four to six years, but extensions are permitted if required, especially since candidates usually have other jobs and families to attend to. Once approved for the program, PAT participants are able to select which of the two seminaries they wish to be affiliated with for four levels of instruction.

The first level focuses on catechetical studies. The second level allows participants to become a lector. At the third level, they become deacons and are able to obtain a preaching licence. Similar to regular seminary students, fourth level PAT participants are Vicars.

Before graduation and receiving a call, participants are interviewed by seminary faculty and then a recommendation is made to the PAT committee, a group made up of program mentors, the Executive for Missions and Social Ministry, and the Chairman of the LCC Council of Presidents. Based on the committee recommendation, p a r t i c i p a n t s a re t h e n interviewed by the President of the District where they are serving. After that, a final recommendation is made for the Council of Presidents to act upon. The entire PAT program is funded by synod.

Immigration has had a profound effect on Canadian society and in turn, the church. While the roots of Lutheranism in Canada are firmly European, the contemporary wave of new Canadians from countries with very different languages, cultures, and religious heritage has caused an essential need for adaptation if Christ’s kingdom is to remain strong and expand. Our European foundations will always be with us, and there are still congregations which strongly identify with German, Scandinavian, or Slavic heritage. Acceptance, tolerance, understanding, and adaptation are needed in order to fulfill Christ’s message of salvation. Welcoming believers from around the world into our congregations and sharing the Gospel with them is a biblical form of pluralism that is absolutely necessary.

Welcoming believers from around the world into our congregations and sharing the Gospel with them is biblical and absolutely necessary.

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THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2015

James Morgan is a writer and former broadcaster living in Gatineau, Quebec where he is completing a Ph.D in History. His home congregation is Trinity Lutheran near Gowanstown, Ontario, and he worships at various LCC congregations in the National Capital Region.

90000

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Lutheran Church–Canada in numbers

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30000 1000 20000 500

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1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998illustrate 1999 2000 2001challenges 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 New statistics facing the2008 church

by Mathew Block

L

utheran Church–Canada has released statistics for the 2013 year and they show the largest drop in baptized membership in recent years.

In 2013, LCC congregations reported 62,649 baptized members—a drop of more than 2,500 members, or approximately 4%, from the previous year’s reported membership. Confirmed membership likewise continues to fall, reaching a new low of 48,263 members.

This statistical analysis is complicated somewhat by a lack of reporting. LCC relies on its congregations to report their membership numbers on an annual basis. Failure to provide that information on a regular basis can lead to skewed results. In total, 132 congregations failed to provide membership statistics to LCC in 2013 (compared to 105 in 2012 and 135 in 2011).

That caveat aside, there is much to consider—both

good and bad—in 2013’s numbers. Much to consider, yes, and much to pray over.

The Christian decline in Canada

In many ways, the story of Christianity in Canada in recent decades has been one of decline. Lutheran Church–Canada’s experience is no different; its declining membership mirrors similar declines facing Christian church bodies across Canada.

In 2001, self-identified Christians in Canada made up 77% of the total population, according to Statistics Canada.

By 2011, those numbers had declined dramatically to just 67.3% of the population. A full 24% of Canadians now identify as having no religion.

The same decline is clearly visible in LCC’s reported THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2015

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Membership in Lutheran Church–Canada 90000 80000 70000 60000 50000 Baptized Membership 40000

Confirmed Membership

30000 20000 10000 0 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

membership over the past ten years. In 2003, LCC counted a cross-Canada baptized membership of 76,869. A decade later, in 2013, that number had dropped by 14,220, or by approximately 18.5%. The decline in confirmed members has been slightly smaller. In 2013, LCC had a confirmed membership of 56,979. By 2013, confirmed members had declined 15.3% to 48,263.

Membership losses have been even more pronounced in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada (ELCIC), which has faced a decline nearly twice that of LCC’s. From 2003 to 2013, baptized membership in the ELCIC declined by nearly a third (32.6%) from 179,861 to 121,219. Over the same decade, confirmed membership dropped by 30.5% from 131,131 to 91,199.

The membership drops in LCC and the ELCIC match closely the most recent numbers released by Statistics Canada. In the decade from 2001 to 2011, the total number of Canadians self-identifying as Lutheran dropped nearly 21.2% (from 606,590 in 2001 to 478,185 in 2011).

Self-identified Lutherans made up 2% of the Canadian population in 2001; by 2011, they made up just 1.5%.

And it’s not just Lutherans. Over the same time period, the number of Canadians self-identifying as United Church of Canada members diminished from 2.84 million to 2.01 million (from 9.6% of the Canadian population to 6.1% respectively). Anglicans fell from 2.04 million to 1.63 million (from 6.9% to 5%). And Baptists shrunk from 729,470 to 635,840 members (2.5% to 1.9%). Thanks in part to a large number of Roman Catholic immigrants, the total number of self-identifying Roman Catholics remained largely unchanged (down slightly from 12.79 million members to

12.73 million members), but their percentage of the total Canadian population nevertheless fell dramatically from 43.2% to 38.7%.

The situation is clear: the Christian Church in general is facing a crisis in Canada. And Lutherans are no exception.

Positive Trends in LCC

As concerning as these membership drops are, there have been some positive trends in LCC’s membership numbers as well over the past few years. In particular, LCC has seen increases in the number of children being baptized, the number of adults being welcomed into membership through baptism/confirmation, and the number of children and adults enrolled in Sunday School and Bible Study.

The last two years for which statistics are available have seen steady increases in the number of children baptized in LCC congregations. In 2011, an all-time low of 598 children were baptized in LCC congregations (one less than in 2010).

In 2012, that number rose to 633, and in 2013 it rose to 684.

That two-year trend of increases in child baptism is good news for the church.

Less good are the number of baptized children who actually make it to confirmation. In 2013, 406 juniors were confirmed, slightly more than 2012’s numbers of 404. Barring that small increase, however, there has been a downward trend in this area for some time. In just a decade, the number of juniors being confirmed in LCC churches has fallen by more than fifty percent (from 835 in 2002 to 404 in

The Christian Church in general is facing a crisis in Canada. And Lutherans are no exception.

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THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2015

1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

2002). This speaks to a serious disconnect in our churches, significantly lower than 2010’s enrollment of 2,982—itself as children baptized into the faith are not being subsequently the lowest Sunday School enrollment in LCC’s history prior presented for confirmation. to the 2011 plummet.

Much more encouraging has been the number of adults In other good news, the total number of people enrolled joining Lutheran Church–Canada through baptism and in Bible Study programs across LCC rose in 2013 to 4,125 confirmation in recent years. 2012 marked the end of a fourpeople, a significant jump from 2012’s numbers of 3,379. year decline in adults accepted into membership into LCC, That increase might be attributable in part to LCC’s as 389 new members joined recent triennial focus on the church through baptism the importance of Scripture or confirmation. And 2013’s reading. Near the end of Children Baptized numbers remained high, 2011, approximately 150 2000 1800 with 370 adults received LCC members in Winnipeg 1600 into membership. These committed themselves to 1400 numbers more than doubled reading through the entire 1200 2011’s reported membership Bible. As news of their 1000 800 gains of 154 adults. In initiative spread, other 600 fact, we have to go back to congregations across the 400 2002 before we see adult country began to take up 200 membership gains higher daily Bible reading as well.

0 than 2012’s numbers.

In 2015, The Canadian This puts LCC on new Lutheran began including ground, as adults being installments of the same received into membership reading plan in use in many via confirmation or baptism of these congregations, Juniors Confirmed have begun to take up a allowing any LCC member 1200 m u c h l a rg e r s h a re o f to join in (see page 33).

1000 confirmed membership I n c re a s e s i n c h i l d gains. Historically, the vast baptisms, adult membership 800 majority of newly confirmed gains, and discipleship 600 members welcomed into LCC programs are good news 400 yearly have been received indeed. But they come into the church as youths amidst other troubles. These 200 completing confirmation. gains are counter-balanced 0 In 2012, however, juniors by significant losses. In 2013, accounted for only 50.9% of for example, the average newly confirmed members in congregation in LCC saw a LCC. That is the closest adultdecline in weekly attendance membership gains have ever by 17 people over 2012’s Adults Baptized/Confirmed come to overtaking junior numbers (meaning that 900 confirmations as the primary each LCC church had, on 800 source of confirmed member average, just 67 members in 700 gains in LCC’s history. In the pew any given Sunday).

600 2013, the numbers were And, in keeping with 500 slightly further apart, as Canada’s aging population, 400 juniors made up 52.3% of LCC congregations are 300 200 confirmed membership gains conducting far more burials 100 that year. than baptisms. In 2013, 0 Also encouraging the church conducted 955 were the number of pupils burials as opposed to just 684 enrolled in Sunday School child baptisms. and Bible Study programs in LCC over the past few years. 2012 and 2013 both saw increases in the number of children registered in Sunday School programs across Canada, increasing from 2011’s Despite some positive trends then, Lutheran Church– record low of only 2,001 children. In 2012, those numbers Canada is nevertheless facing difficult times ahead as the swung back up to 2,591, and in 2013 they continued to rise broader church in Canada declines. Some might ask whether to 2,748. This increase is good news. Still, the numbers are it really matters. “Surely the point of our church is not the

New Opportunities

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2015

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preservation of our institution’s numbers,” they might say, “but the furtherance of the Gospel.”

There is some truth to that. We must understand that growing membership numbers is not the ultimate goal of LCC. The goal of the Church is to introduce people to Christ, their Saviour. But a necessary corollary of that is that these new Christians be nurtured in their faith—and that takes place in the local church. It is the local church where Christians hear the Word of God proclaimed by trained shepherds. It is the local church where Christians receive the forgiveness of Christ spoken over their sin. And it is the local church where Christians receive the life-giving sacraments of baptism and holy communion. The reason that the decline in LCC’s membership numbers is concerning is not because it threatens the institution; it’s concerning because they suggest we are ailing in our attempts to bring Christ to those who do not know Him, and to nurture in the faith those who do. Put simply, as the number of self-identifying Christians in Canada declines, the number of people in need of the Gospel of Christ is increasing.

So how do we address the decline in Lutheran Church– Canada’s numbers?

Answering this question requires significant soul searching. More than that, it requires a significant turning to God in prayer. It is not merely lip-service when we say that God is the ultimate source of the Church’s life. He and He alone can bring the renewal our nation— and our church body— so desperately needs.

And it is on Him we must rely for strength and guidance.

But God also works through means. He uses pastors to preach the Gospel and administer the sacraments. He uses deacons to support the work of the church. He uses faithful laypeople to share the Good News of Christ with friends and family. As we seek to live out these vocations together as Christ’s church in Canada, let us consider especially the following ways in which we might focus our attempts.

First, we can encourage faithful young Lutherans to have families. The birthrate in Canada has been declining for some time; as of 2011, it had dropped to 1.61 children per woman of childbearing years in 2011. Consider this: if faithful Lutherans follow the Canadian average, then that means for every two Lutheran couples only three children are being born. Four parents give birth, collectively, to just three children. Obviously, that’s not a self-sustaining model.

The Scriptures tell us that “children are a gift from the LORD” (Psalm 127:3). Do we live as if that were true? We can all ask ourselves how we can better support young

families in our churches, helping them to raise their children in the faith.

This means following up on baptism. We’ve already noted increases in the number of children being baptized in LCC congregations. Nevertheless, it is sad but true that a significant number of those baptized never make it to confirmation. It’s absolutely vital that church workers maintain a relationship with the parents of young children, visiting them and encouraging them to raise the children in the faith into which they were baptized. We have some reason for hope on this front: the number of serving pastors in LCC has grown to 245 in 2013, from 216 in 2010. And the average church member has a role to play here too, praying for the newly baptized and establishing relationships with these young families.

Something else all Christians can do to is to engage more deeply with Scripture. God tells us that His Word is both the source of faith (Romans 10:17) and its nourishment (Matthew 4:4). It is unsurprising therefore that a recent Canadian study found that those who regularly read Scripture are both more likely to attend church services and to talk to others about their faith outside of religious services. Those in the Word themselves are more likely to share the Word with others.

One of the first steps in learning to share the Gospel with friends and family is to engage more deeply with Scripture ourselves.

Finally, we can look for new opportunities.

As another article in this issue of the magazine notes, the face of the “average Canadian” is changing.

Immigration is transforming Canadian evangelism. Maybe your Canadian-born friends are less interested in religion today than they were a decade ago, but chances are your immigrant neighbour is more receptive. How are you and your congregation reaching out to these new Canadians eager to hear the Gospel?

These are all thoughts on, not solutions to, the decline of Christianity in Canada. But discipleship—both of ourselves and others—begins with careful thought and examination.

“For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?” Jesus asks (Luke 14:28).

Let us trust the Builder of the Church to make it strong, and then let us act accordingly. May the Holy Spirit bless us, giving us good words to speak and good works to do.

And may He soften hearts to hear the Gospel He sends us to proclaim.

The decline in membership numbers suggests we are ailing in our attempts to bring Christ to those who do not know Him, and to nurture in the faith those who do.

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THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2015

Mathew Block is editor of The Canadian Lutheran and Communications Manager for Lutheran Church–Canada.

National News www.canadianlutheran.ca

New Third Vice President appointed for Lutheran Church–Canada CANADA - Rev. Rudy Pastucha (Saskatoon, Saskatchewan) has been appointed to serve as Third Vice President of Lutheran ChurchCanada (LCC) by action of the Synod’s Board of Directors (BOD).

In late May, his predecessor, Rev. Mark L. Smith (Plumas, Manitoba), advised Synod leadership that he had accepted the call to serve as the Atlantic Canada area missionary for the East District, stationed in Halifax. As a result of this move from the Central District to the East District, Rev. Smith became ineligible to continue serving as LCC’s Third Vice President and as a member of the Board of Directors.

Lutheran Church–Canada’s BOD addressed the vacancy resulting from Rev. Smith’s departure during a June 25 conference call. Rev. Pastucha had previously served as LCC’s Third Vice President from 2013-2014, following the resignation of Rev. Mark Dressler (who had moved from the Central District to the AlbertaBritish Columbia District).

“I feel no small sadness at Pastor Smith’s departure,” said LCC President Robert Bugbee. “He has been an articulate, competent member of the Council of Presidents and Board of Directors in the very brief time he was with us since last September. The Lord bless the decision he has made, and help us and his parish people with all the adjustments we will need to address.”

“A t t h e s a m e t i m e, I ’ m encouraged by Pastor Pastucha’s willingness to return to this office,” P re s i d e n t B u g b e e c o n t i n u e d .

“Humanly speaking, we have experienced far too many changes within the ranks of the vice presidents in recent years, and I am hopeful that Rudy’s resumption of this task will help provide some of the continuity we need at this time. He was an energetic and devoted servant of the Synod when he served before, and I’m glad he can resume the work without much special orientation.”

Third Vice President Rudy Pastucha

In addition to his parish work at Faith Lutheran Church in Saskatoon, Rev. Pastucha also serves as the Synod president’s representative on the Board of Regents of Concordia Lutheran Seminary in Edmonton, an arrangement that will continue into the future, President Bugbee noted.

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National News www.canadianlutheran.ca

Nolan Astley appointed Interim Pastoral Leader for Alberta and B.C. CANADA - On June 25, Lutheran Church–Canada’s (LCC) Board of Directors voted to appoint Rev. Nolan Astley as the Interim Pastoral Leader for Alberta and British Columbia.

Rev. Astley also serves as First Vice President for LCC. LCC President Robert Bugbee had announced his recommendation for Interim Pastoral Leader earlier in June. The Alberta-British Columbia District Convention in May adopted a resolution separating the pastoral and corporate functions of the District President, acting on a recommendation from LCC’s Board of Directors. The Interim Pastoral Leader (who was to be appointed by LCC’s President and BOD, in consultation with District leadership) would provide ecclesiastical oversight in Alberta and British Columbia, while the District President would focus on the corporate responsibilities of the District.

In a statement to LCC members in Alberta and British Columbia, Rev. Astley noted the church was entering uncharted territory. “Because this is so new to all of us, I am not entirely sure what to say as I contemplate the beginning of my service as Interim Pastoral Leader in the ABC District,” he writes. “I do not have a great master

plan for how I will fulfill the work I have been asked to do. But, I do know at least two things will be very important to me. First, I very much want to be out among the people of the District. I hope you invite me to your congregations, to your meetings, and to circuit meetings and other gatherings. I want to be out with you so I can listen to you. That’s the second thing I know will be very important to me—listening. I hope to listen to our pastors and deacons, our lay leaders and most especially I hope to listen to those who have been caught up in this whole mess. As one who is now come from across the miles to the District, the only way I will be able to speak to the pain you feel is to first take time to listen.”

He continued: “When the time for speaking comes, I know I could do far worse than to remind you of the words God gave Joshua as he prepared the people to enter the Promised Land: ‘Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.’ Consecrate yourselves.

Be in the Word day by day. Our Heavenly Father has so much to say to people who come into hard times.

As you are in His Word, He will speak calm to your troubled heart,

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THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2015

First Vice President Nolan Astley.

no matter how this crisis has affected you. Receive the gifts His Word gives as it comes with bread and wine, feeding us the very Body and Blood of the Saviour. As you receive His Word, let our Lord give you the words and actions to faithfully proclaim what He has done and still does in the life of His people.”

“The Lord will do wonders among you! He will drive you and me to our knees in repentance and He will raise us up again with His forgiving love shown us in Christ. He will journey with us as He journeyed with His people long ago. He will work all things for the good of those who love Him.” Vice President Astley will begin official service as Interim Pastoral Leader on September 1, in keeping with the ABC District’s new triennium. He noted that he is looking forward to working with District Staff, especially President Elect Glenn Schaeffer.

At its recent meeting, LCC’s Board of Directors determined that the salary of the Interim Pastoral Leader position would be paid by Synod, given the legal complexities currently facing the ABC District.

Yo u c a n c o n t a c t V i c e President Astley at nolan.astley@ lutheranchurch.ca.

National News www.canadianlutheran.ca

LWMLC plan for the future, LWMLC President Barta reelected selected included needs in Nicaragua, General Council are Renate Bishopp WATERLOO, Ontario - Mission, Cambodia with a focus on women (Saskatoon) as Vice President of service and fellowship are the and children, as well as support for Christian Mission; Betty Ann elements Lutheran women consider the seminary in Ukraine. Projects McKinty (Red Deer, Alberta) as key in an organization. How do you in Canada ranged from supporting Recording Secretary; and Lorraine keep and increase those elements LCC’s mission in the Maritimes to the Weir (Winnipeg) as Treasurer. while making major revisions to how 2016 National Youth Gathering to a The gift of generosity was much you are organized with the intent to community cupboard in Kitchener in evidence during LWMLC’s free up resources, time and finances to and a technology upgrade for the recent convention. Three offerings, respond in greater measure to God’s seminary in Edmonton. totaling about $13,000, were call? Women, meeting in Waterloo, Other officers reelected at the taken during the event. The first Ontario, for the ninth national 2015 convention were Roberta supports the mission grant goal convention of Lutheran Women’s for the triennium, the Missionary League–Canada second supports medical (LWMLC), tackled this missions of the LWMLC question in small and large Ontario District and the group discussions. third supports LCC’s The convention saw missions in Costa Rica. A Iris Barta reelected as walk for missions raised, President of LWMLC for through pledges, $12,115 another three years. “God with funds still coming in is so good,” President after the convention. Gifts Barta said following her of Love were gathered for reelection. “He has once Monica Place (Waterloo, again blessed LWMLC Ontario), an agency with a wonderful devoted to helping young convention. We now begin women who have chosen a new triennium, knowing life for their babies. Five God will guide us and Iris Barta addresses the 2015 LWMLC Convention. carloads of items were strengthen us to boldly Nixon (Regina) as Vice President received along with approximately ‘fan into flame the gift of God.’” Fan of Christian Growth; Gail Mitchell $1,000 in cash and $600 in gift into Flame the Gift of God (based (Saskatoon, Saskatchewan) as cards. During servant events the on 2 Timothy 1:6) served as the Vice President of Communication; morning prior to the convention, theme for this year’s convention.

Lorraine Kaija (Niagara Falls, delegates folded gauze bandages, A major topic of discussion at Ontario) as Vice President and created pillowcase dresses the convention was the development of Member Development; and for Haiti and CLWR, tray cards of a new structure for LWMLC. A Rachel Kuhl (Kanata, Ontario) as for hospitals and care homes, and broad outline with little detail was Financial Secretary. New to the “everyone deserves a birthday” kits. presented to delegates, leaving room for women of the church to provide their input on the plan before getting into specifics. A copy of the “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to discussion paper is posted at www. prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” lutheranwomen.ca/wp-content/ - Jeremiah 29:11 u p l o a d s / 2 01 5 / 0 5 / D i s c u s s i o n A message from paper-edited.pdf. President Barta welcomes comments and ideas from D. A. KURT INSURANCE BROKERS LTD. any woman of Lutheran Church– and Financial Services Canada (email them to president@ 604 Belmont Ave. W., Kitchener, ON N2M 1N5 lutheranwomen.ca).

Tel: 519-579-5440 Fax: 519-579-0193 Looking into the nearer future, Email: don@Kurt-ins.com delegates also selected which mission projects they will support with their Toll Free: 1-800-339-9935 www.kurt-ins.com “mites” in the coming triennium.

A goal of $130,000 was approved Great is the glory of the Lord! for mission grants. The projects

Thank the Lord and Sing His Praise

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2015

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National News www.canadianlutheran.ca

ABC District office to be sold, stay of proceedings extended

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t the most recent hearing o n J u n e 2 6 , 2 01 5 t h e Court granted a stay of proceedings which extended protection to the Alberta-British Columbia (ABC) District under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act. One result of the court order is that the District will be protected from legal action until at least August 31, 2015 when the matter returns to Court.

Since then, the ABC District has further announced that their office building is being sold.

Concordia Lutheran Seminary (CLS – Edmonton) has offered the use of vacant space in their building to ABC District staff, and they will begin working in the new building August 1. “Although we are separate corporate entities, we share a commitment to serve the ministry needs of Lutheran Church–Canada and the ABC District,” explained CLS President James Gimbel.

“Despite the challenges of these changing times, we are looking forward to this move,” said ABC District President Elect Glenn Schaeffer. “We anticipate the opportunities we will have to work and worship alongside the seminary community.”

The District advises that their office telephone and contact information will remain the same, but beginning August 1 they have a new mailing address: ABC District Office 7040 Ada Blvd NW, Edmonton, AB T5B 4E3

Stay extended The purpose of the stay of proceedings is to allow the District Group to create a Plan of Arrangement to maximize returns to creditors while allowing the organizations to continue operations. That work continues

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under the guidance of the Chief Restructuring Officer (CRO), under the supervision of the Court-appointed Monitor Deloitte Restructuring Inc. In a letter to creditors released July 8, the Monitor notes that “drafts of the Plans have been prepared by the Applicants and are currently being circulated amongst the Monitor, the Monitor’s legal counsel, the Applicants, the CRO and the Applicant’s legal counsel.” Following this, the plans will be brought to the two creditors’ committees for review and comment. The Monitor further notes that it anticipates that the Plans will be filed “prior to the expiry of the Stay,” which is currently scheduled for August 31, 2015.

At the most recent court hearing, the Court also authorized the distribution of mission remittances to Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC).

Thirty-five percent of mission remittances from LCC congregations in Alberta and British Columbia to the ABC District are normally transferred on to LCC. However, this regular transfer of funds has been frozen since the ABC District entered CCAA protection. Funds frozen included 35% of the total mission remittances received by the District in the pre-filing period up to January 23, as well as from congregational remittances received by the District since entering CCAA protection.

Other action taken by the court includes the approval of the sale of a Richmond, British Columbia condominium, securing remuneration of legal counsel for the Church Extension Fund Committee and the District Investments Ltd committee as part of administration charges granted in the initial order, and further confirming that legal costs incurred by District and DIL in dealing with the Securities Commissions of Alberta and British Columbia also be included under administration charges.

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2015

The Kellen Claim In advance of the consideration of an extension, on June 18 the Court heard the application of Randy Kellen, who had requested the stay of proceedings be lifted in order to pursue claims against the officers and directors of the District G ro u p . T h e C o u r t - a p p o i n t e d Monitor opposed the move, asking the Courts to adjourn Mr. Kellen’s request until after the District Group’s Plan of Arrangement could be presented and voted upon by creditors. Deloitte noted in their briefing to the Court that “the Debtors have been acting in good faith and with due diligence in pursuing the Plans and there is no evidence that the Plans are likely to fail.” Deloitte further suggested that “Mr. Kellen will not suffer any hardship or significant prejudice by a refusal to lift the stay of proceedings,” and that “the restructuring efforts of the Debtors will be prejudiced if attention, time, and resources are diverted from the restructuring process and redirected towards defending a complex claim.”

The Kellen application was eventually adjourned by consent of all parties.

The Court also granted an Order for the Preservation of Records at the same time, directing “all former directors, officers, employees, agents, accountants, legal counsel and shareholders and all other persons acting on their instructions” to inform the Court-appointed monitor of the location of their Districtrelated records. It also ordered the prevention of the destruction of these records, while clarifying that there has been no “admission or judicial determination” that any such destruction occurred prior to the order being granted.

ABC District News News ABC District

Alberta Alberta and and British British Columbia, Columbia, Jon Jon Teschke, Teschke, editor editor

Congregations come together for outreach at the fair VERMILION, Alta – Faith Lutheran Church (Vermilion, Alberta) and St. Paul’s Lutheran Church (Mannville, Alberta) entered a float in the Vermilion Agricultural Fair parade this year.

The Sunday before the fair, Rev. Greg Palmer and members of the two congregations constructed a miniature pioneer-type church building for the float. During the parade, Sunday school children waved from the windows of the church, while the youth proudly carried a banner in front.

“What was so meaningful was how we carried the cross into the midst of the community. There were both positive and negative reactions to our float, but no one can say that we weren’t clear in what we were saying,” Rev. Palmer said of the event.

“This was an opportunity to raise Christ’s cross up in a public event,” he continued, “and we pray that hearts would be drawn to the Saviour of the world.”

Above: Youth carry a banner before their float with the names of their churches.

Right: Lutherans made a “pioneer church” float for Vermilion’s recent Agricultural Fair parade.

Edmonton church welcomes new shepherd

Marla Palmer, Faith Lutheran Church, Vermilion Alta.

We’ve moved!

The ABC District Office has moved (effective August 1, 2015). Please update your mailing address for us.

Lutheran Church-Canada, The Alberta – British Columbia District 7040 Ada Blvd Edmonton, AB T5B 4E3 Our fax number has changed to (780) 479-3067.

Our phone number (local and toll free) remain unchanged.

Call us at (780) 474-0063 or 1-888-474-0063.

We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your patience.

Clergy participating in the installation of Rev. David Kihn, left to right: Rev. Dr. Lowell Eckert, Rev. Dr. Glenn Schaefer, Rev. Dr. Vernon Raaflaub, Rev. Robert Marshall, Rev. James Fritsche, Rev. David Kihn, Rev. James Avery, and Rev. Curtis Boehm. (Photo: Ellen Raaflaub)

EDMONTON - Rev. David Kihn was installed as pastor at Christ the King Lutheran Church in a special service July 19. The Rite of Installation was conducted by Circuit Counsellor Rev. James Avery, assisted by District President Elect

Glenn Schaeffer. Long-time friend Rev. Robert Marshall preached; Rev. Dr. Vernon Raaflaub, who had served as Vacancy Pastor, was liturgist, and Rev. Dr. Lowell Eckert served as Lector. Refreshments followed.

Rev. Vern Raaflaub

The July/August2015 201513 1 THE Canadian CANADIAN LLutheran UTHERAN July/August

ABC District News

and British Columbia, Jon Teschke, editor editor AlbertaAlberta and British Columbia, Jon Teschke, Jon Teschke,

Challenges are being addressed… progress is being made

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he restructuring of the CEF and DIL funds continue to progress led by our Chief Restructuring Officer, legal counsel, and the court appointed monitor. If you are a depositor and would like an update or additional information on the process and status of the plan please contact Cam Sherban of Kluane Partners at 403-681-3608 and take a moment to read the update from Cam included in this ABC Connect.

As you may be aware, the ABC District itself is undergoing a restructuring process which includes working in partnership with the Synod appointed interim pastoral leader, Rev. Nolan Astley. Although Rev. Astley’s work doesn’t begin officially until September 1, Pastor Astley and I are beginning to work diligently on a go forward strategy for our District which will enable us to maintain our support of each of our 127 congregations which range in size from as little as 7 people to more than 700 people.

Our overall objective is to be able to continue to service our congregations, schools, and church workers in such a way that they are better prepared and resourced to be God’s representatives in our post-church Canada.

Pastor Astley and I are working with the Circuit Counselors to arrange for Town Hall meetings in all our circuits so that we can listen to the concerns and ideas of God’s people. We hope people will share their thoughts about the CEF crisis and the restructuring of our District and Synod. We anticipate some conversation to be focused on the challenges congregations are experiencing as members age and they find themselves more and more marginalized from mainstream society. Please watch your bulletins and newsletters for announcements when we will have a Town Hall meeting in your area. We encourage you to sign up to receive the ABC Connect on a weekly basis so that you can receive information firsthand.

There are a number of changes taking place in the ABC District as we restructure ourselves. Some of the recent changes to the District include: • Listing the District office building for sale with Colliers; • Moving the District office to the seminary on August 1 where we will rent three offices;

2 The Canadian Lutheran July/August 2015 14 THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2015

•

Reducing our full-time staff to three people (i.e.

District President Elect Glenn Schaeffer; Mrs. Janice Ruf and Mrs. Candace Rivet); • Operating our District work program on a budget of approximately $500,000.00. We typically operate our District work on about $660,000.00 received by congregational mission remittances; • Evaluating future staffing needs and developing a new District governance structure based upon the feedback we receive from the ABC District Restructuring Committee, the convention delegates, and the Town Hall meetings; and • Missionary Paul Roggow’s service as missionary to Vancouver came to an end when funds designated for his missionar y work were “frozen” in CEF, but Pastor Roggow has accepted a call to serve as a pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Duncan, BC and he will be installed on August 16.

Good news was received when the court ruled on June 26 that 35% of the mission remittances the ABC District receives from congregations can be sent to Synod in order to support the work we do as a Synod.

We hope this decision by the court will encourage congregations to send their mission remittances to the District office and that mission remittances will rise close to where they were prior to the CEF crisis. As has been the case since about 2011, we are completely dependent on congregational mission remittances to fund the District work program as we support our schools, congregations and church workers. One hundred percent of the mission remittances received are utilized for our work in Synod and the District and is not used to fund the expenses incurred by CCAA. I will continue to work closely with the Interim Pastoral Leader and the Chief Restructuring Officer as we develop our go forward plan for our District.

If you have any questions, please contact me directly at: 1-888-474-0063 or gschaeffer@lccabc.ca.

Blessings to you in Christ Jesus, Rev. Dr. Glenn E. Schaeffer District President Elect

ABC District News News ABC District

Alberta and and British British Columbia, Columbia, Jon Jon Teschke, Teschke, editor editor Alberta

An update from the Chief Restructuring Officer

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ith thanks to the many (1,000+) depositors that we have had the opportunity to speak with over the past 3 months we have now completed an initial draft of the restructuring plans for both District Investments Limited (DIL) and the District’s Church Extension Fund (CEF). It was those meetings as well as our continuing discussions with Depositors which have allowed us to draft plans for both DIL and CEF that we believe provides the best possible outcome for all groups of depositors. As discussed in Deloitte’s (The Monitor’s) letter of July 7, 2015, we are consulting with the creditor’s committees, whose review and comments will help to ensure that the final versions of the plans will be approved by both the depositors and the Court.

District Investments Limited (DIL) Plan As we have discussed with many DIL Depositors the assets of DIL are comprised of three asset classes being cash, mortgages and potential claims against third parties. We are currently reviewing whether it may be possible to distribute a portion of cash and short-term investments held in DIL to DIL Depositors in advance of the DIL Plan being approved.

These distributions would be done through a new Trust Company with all funds being paid into comparable registered investment vehicles to those currently held in DIL. This type of distribution would require Court approval but would help to provide depositors with funds to take care of their daily needs on an expedited basis.

The mortgages within the DIL fund continue to be paid out by the various Church groups and we expect all will be paid in late Q3 or early Q4. At this time we continue to see co-operation from all congregations who have unfortunately had to adjust their finances abruptly

in an attempt to pay their DIL mortgages as quickly as possible. We appreciate the continued hard work of the many individuals within the congregations who volunteer their time in an attempt to find alternative financing arrangements for their Churches. The Plan sets out how funds received from the pay-out of mortgages will be repaid to the Depositors through the third party Trust Company.

The final asset class of the DIL fund is third party claims some of which will be dealt with in the Plan and some of which may be subject to further litigation.

Church Extension Fund (CEF) Plan Our discussions with CEF Depositors have made it clear that there are generally two groups of depositors within the Fund.

The first group are individuals or congregations that require funds relatively quickly in order to pay for ongoing needs, the second are a group that can generally wait longer if it means potentially achieving a higher return on their deposits. As a result, the CEF Plan, as currently written, provides the opportunity for individuals to cash out the liquidation value of their position or continue with an equity investment in a new company (NewCo.). The purpose of NewCo. will be to maximize the returns of the Prince of Peace Development to the investors. NewCo will be run by an experienced for profit management team of professionals from outside the District. NewCo will have no involvement with funding Churches or the previous mandate of the CEF. Additional details and presentations including details of the structure and management team will be distributed with the Plan. It is critical that individual depositors realize that, as is the case with any equity investment, returns and timing of returns are

not guaranteed and each individual needs to ensure that they have a complete understanding of the risks involved in such an investment.

The Plan as currently written also includes the added flexibility of a portion of an individual or congregation’s investment being liquidated while the remaining portion rolls into equity of NewCo. We are currently consulting with the Creditors Committee regarding the Plan, which we will then work to finalize. In addition, two issues, which are currently being negotiated between the Creditors’ Committees for each of the District and DIL will also need to be resolved prior to the Plans being finalized. Once they have been completed, a Court date will be scheduled to set out the procedure for the plans to be considered and voted on.

Plan Voting and Roll Out As the matters in the Plan do have some complexities, the Kluane team will be visiting a number of cities in order to ensure that all Depositors have an informed understanding of their options prior to voting. Voting will be able to be done via voting letter, via proxy or at an in person meeting. We will also be publishing additional information on the internet and within congregational bulletins updating Depositors as new information comes to light.

As one can expect in a matter where there are 3,600 depositors in 127 congregations throughout BC and Alberta, there may be some misinformation. If individuals have any questions or concerns or hear any information that is of concern to the process please do not hesitate to contact me at any point at (403) 681-3608.

Many thanks for your continued patience, co-operation and ongoing discussions Cam Sherban Chief Restructuring Officer

The July/August2015 201515 3 THE Canadian CANADIAN LLutheran UTHERAN July/August

ABC ABC District News

Alberta and and British British Columbia, Columbia, Jon Jon Teschke, Teschke, editor editor Alberta

Informal circuit forums being organized

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nformal circuit forums are being organized with ABC District President Elect Glenn Schaeffer and the LCC Interim Pastoral Leader Rev. Nolan Astley.

During these visits attendees will have the opportunity to: • Discuss the financial challenges of the ABC District and the CEF/DIL investors; • Discuss the mission and ministry challenges facing our congregations in this post-church era and how we might address them in the next triennium; • Share their thoughts about the restructuring of our Synod; and

• Pray and socialize with other brothers and sisters in Christ.

• As of August 10, the following circuit meetings have been scheduled: • • August 17 – the Vancouver Circuit will meet at Trinity, Richmond at 7:30 p.m.

• August 18 – the Fraser Valley Circuit will meet at Zion, Cloverdale at 7:30 p.m.

• August 20 – the Elk Island Circuit will meet at Christ, Fort Saskatchewan at 7:30 p.m.

• September 10 – the Wetaskiwin Circuit will meet at Zion, Wetaskiwin at 7:00 p.m.

• September 11 – the Calgary

Grace, Drumheller welcomes new pastor

• •

Circuit (Place and Time to be determined) September 13 – the Okanagan Circuit will meet at Redeemer, West Kelowna at 3 p.m.

September 15 – the Peace River Circuit will meet at Faith, Grande Prairie at 6 p.m.

September 16 – the Edmonton Circuit will meet at Concordia, Edmonton at 7:30 p.m.

September 20 – the Cariboo Circuit will meet at Zion, Prince George at 3:00 p.m.

We hope that in the near future informal circuit forums with President Schaeffer and Rev. Astley will be scheduled for the Kootenay circuit, the Lethbridge, Stony Plain, and Vancouver Island circuits as well.

NOTE: Rev. Astley and President Elect Schaeffer are also making themselves available outside of these times for individual visits with congregations, church members, and church workers. If you want to set up a visit with Rev. Astley, contact him at nolan.astley@lutheranchurch.ca.

For Dr. Schaeffer, call 1-780-4740063 or email him at: gschaeffer@ lccabc.ca.

Visit the ABC District website at www.lccabc.ca Front: Rev. Scott Gamble, flanked by ABC District President Elect Rev. Dr. Glenn Schaeffer (left) and President Rev. Don Schiemann (right), and other pastors participating in his ordination.

DRUMHELLER, Alta. - It was a beautiful sunny day on August 2, 2015 when Grace Lutheran Church welcomed Rev. Scott Gamble and his family to the congregation for his ordination and installation.

More than 200 people were in attendance, and the service had to be held in the Badlands Community Facility (Grace Lutheran Church itself was not big enough to house so large a crowd). Members noted

the beauty of the service and the excellence of the music, as well as how powerful a moment it was when the ministers all paraded in.

After the service everyone was invited to a meal prepared by the congregation’s Fellowship Committee.

Organizers thank the members of Grace Lutheran for their work in making the event a success.

4 The Canadian Lutheran July/August 2015 16 THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2015

Rosalie Nimmo, Admin. Assistant Grace Lutheran, Drumheller, Alta.

Send news, photos, articles and announcements six weeks prior to publication month.

District Editor 7100 Ada Boulevard, Edmonton, AB T5B 4E4 phone: 780-474-0063

jteschke@lccabc.ca

Next deadline: September 16, 2015

Central District District News Central News

Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Manitoba, NW NW Ontario Ontario Elaine Elaine Stanfel, Stanfel, editor editor

Missionary speaker

Ball diamond name honours former member

C U PA R , Sask. - The LWMLC of S t . Pa u l L u t h e ra n Church hosts two fundraisers Ernest Andersen a year with the goal of giving at least $500 to different mission projects. This year, the group committed $100 and hosted a luncheon for the congregation on June 14 with Ernest Anderson as the featured missionary speaker.

An uncle to one of the members of the group, Ernest is a resident of Regina who spends some of his winters in the Philippines, volunteering his time to help with rebuilding. He also helps with farming, as well as teaching the people how to grow their own vegetable gardens. Ernest has delivered thousands of pairs of flipflops to children without shoes. He is one of the founders of Prairie Breeze Foundation, which raises money and asks for volunteers to help rebuild in the Philippines since the tsunami and especially after some severe storms.

The philosophy of this charitable organization is to give a hand up rather than a hand-out. Goats are purchased for $100 and given away but the owner has to give something back to “pay” it off. Fishing boats are given to a pair of men who have to work off the $500 gift by selling some of the fish. This organization is also affiliated with Smiles International whose doctors help repair the smiles of children born with cleft palates.

By living and working with—and helping—these people for a few weeks, Ernest’s Christian living and example have brought others to the Christian faith.

Thirty people attended the event and donated a further $175 towards this project. Members look forward to hearing how their funds helped in the next year. All agreed they would like more luncheons and more missionary speakers!

DRYDEN, Ont. - Family, friends and fellow parishioners of Our Saviour Lutheran Church joined the Dahmer family July 19 in honouring the late Dr. Mark Dahmer with the dedication of the church ball diamond and field as the “Mark Dahmer Memorial Field.” The dedication service was led by Rev. Justin Miller, after which the first pitch was thrown by Joshua Dahmer to Okot Williams. Many of those attending shared short anecdotes of how “Dr. Mark” influenced their physical as well as spiritual lives.

The Town of Dryden donated the fencing and back-stop and there was a PACE grant for developing the ball diamond, along with generous d o n a t i o n s f ro m O u r S av i o u r Lutheran Church. Rev. Miller is presently working with Dryden

Diane Dennis

(l-r) Joshua Dahmer, Linda Dahmer, Lauren Ilko (nee Dahmer), and Tristan Ilko (photo: The Dryden Observer)

Minor Softball as coach of a hardball team of 11 to 13 year olds. They call themselves the “Blue Church” team.

Ordination and installation in La Ronge P r e s i d e n t Re v.

Thomas Prachar, the service took place and Cody was ordained by his father-in-law, Rev. Clint Magnus, and was installed as pastor to La Ronge Lutheran Fellowship by retired, and former pastor of La Ronge Lutheran Fellowship, Rev. Wayne Olson.

Though the day (l-r): DPS Melissa McNeil, Rev. Wayne Olson, Rev. Cody Cooper, held many surprises Rev. Clint Magnus, DPS Michael Gillingham. and was not what anyone would LA RONGE, Sask. - With heavy have expected or anticipated, the smoke and ash clouding the air, congregation and community came highways closed to the north and together to celebrate as God’s grace the south, new plans made and old abounded, the Word was preached, plans adjusted, Cody Cooper was and the Office of Holy Ministry was ordained and installed as the pastor filled in La Ronge. of La Ronge Lutheran Fellowship Note: Additional coverage of the fire on June 28. near La Ronge is planned for a future Due to the road closures and Central District News section. The pressing forest fires, many of the Canadian Lutheran has also reported invited family, friends, and clergy on the story at length online at www. were not able to attend the service. canadianlutheran.ca/lutherans-call-forBut with the blessing of District prayer-amidst-devastating-forest-fires/.

The Lutheran July/August 201517 1 THECanadian CANADIAN L UTHERAN July/August 2015

Central District News News

Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Manitoba, NW NW Ontario Ontario Elaine Elaine Stanfel, Stanfel, editor editor

Church family fun HUMBOLDT, Sask. - As part of the annual church picnic, St. John’s Lutheran members of all ages joined in an “AmazinGrace” organized by the LWMLC society. Six teams were given a Bible scavenger hunt challenge, in which they had to look up Bible passages to figure out what items to look for. Then they used their phones to take pictures of their finds and create a collection that they had to turn in as fast as possible!

The exercise drew out the competitive nature in almost everyone as cheering, jeering and teasing ensued. The participants highly

recommend such an event to bring the generations of a congregation together. ( A n y o n e interested in a copy of this version of AmazinGrace can email pdurand@ sasktel.net.)

The AmazinGrace teams.

Patti Durand

Ponderings from the president Finding the good s I write this in mid-July, wildfires are burning across several of our prairie provinces. A year ago, many communities were concerned about flooding or cleaning up the aftermath of an abundance of water. Today, lack of water combined with lightning has sparked wildfires in many northern communities. In our Central District, we thank God that even though many people have been displaced because of the fires—including the members of our congregation in La Ronge, Saskatchewan—no one has lost their life as yet to these fires. Some, however, have lost their homes in more remote locations or small communities, and many more have seen their cabins or small outfitting businesses go up in smoke.

Because of the damage fire can do to lives, nature and buildings, it is usually seen as something bad. And while fires are burning, they can certainly cause life-threatening conditions to those who fight them. Many people who die in fires don’t succumb to the flames but to smoke inhalation. The smoke and haze created by fires can cause breathing problems for those with respiratory issues.

I’m told that fighting fires is hot, dirty, exhausting work.

As far as nature is concerned, good results can come from forest fires. Fire can be nature’s way of renewing itself: pine cones pop in the heat, releasing seeds; dead growth is cleared away; habitats for wildlife are improved. Minerals from burning plants are returned to the soil making it more fertile. It was reported in the local news this morning that some farmers in Manitoba were experiencing better than usual crops, especially canola. It seems that combined with early seeding and

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2 The July/August2015 2015 18 THECanadian CANADIAN Lutheran LUTHERAN July/August

timely moisture, the smoke and haze from forest fires create a “greenhouse” effect causing warm evenings and warm days, which in turn result in crops growing and maturing faster.

God can use the aftermath of fire to bring about good. Whether it’s a massive forest fire or an accident in your home that burns it and all your belongings to the ground, our God has promised to be by your side.

If you lose everything in a fire, you may truly appreciate how precious life is: “If the dog hadn’t awakened us with his barking, the entire family might have died in the fire!” Stuck in an evacuation shelter, you may get better acquainted with people from your community— people you would not normally meet. As material and financial help comes from complete strangers, lasting friendships may be made. If we are grieving over personal possessions that are lost to fire, our Lord assures us that while those things can be replaced, He is “the one thing needful” (Luke 10:42). In other words, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:19-21).

Whatever dangers or challenges we face in life, we have the Apostle Paul’s example of faith to follow: “I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content…And my God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:11,19).

Rev. Thomas Prachar

Central District News News

Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Manitoba, NW NW Ontario Ontario Elaine Elaine Stanfel, Stanfel, editor editor

Special service marks church closure entitled, “ Why are you here?” and the church’s pastor Rev. Lowell Dennis led the service. Holy Communion was celebrated one last time under the festival red paraments. Former chairman Hugh Huber handed the church membership books over to President Prachar.

A new sign was erected to mark Zion’s place in history. Congregants we re i n v i t e d t o s h a re t h e i r memories and appreciation after the service. There was hardly a dry eye in the building!

With Rev. Lowell Dennis (centre) looking Approximately 80 people on, Hugh Huber (right) hands the church membership books over attended the service, and to District President Tom were served a barbecue Prachar. burger and trimmings NORTH SOUTHEY, a f t e r wa rd s o n p i c n i c Sask. - Zion Lutheran benches outside. Dessert Church held its final was a selection of famous service July 5. Following homemade pies. the aftermath of The church building a s eve re l y - f l o o d e d will remain on its site and basement last fall, the will reopen once a year vibrant congregation for an annual Cemetery/ new sign marks Zion’s decided to close the Aplace Memorial Service every in history. church. Many of Zion’s June. Volunteers will be members transferred to Emmanuel, filling in the basement with gravel Southey. this summer.

Central District President Rev. Diane Dennis Tom Prachar preached the sermon

Pastors nurtured at annual preaching retreat LUMSDEN, Sask. - The 10th Annual St. John Chrysostom Lutheran Preachers’ Retreat was held at St. Michael’s Retreat Centre, June 8-10.

The featured speaker was Rev. William Cwirla of Hacienda Heights, California, who was also the presenter at the initial retreat in 2006. Rev. Cwirla presented “Preaching the Word in Season and Out of Season— What to Say When You’ve Run Out of Things to Say.” His lively presentations gave strategies and ideas for how to deal with the pastoral nemesis of writer’s block.

As is customary for these events, the times of worship, camaraderie

and mutual fellowship were as important as the main sessions for the more than 30 participants from five provinces and two states.

The group thanks Rev. Arron Gust for organizing this year’s event, and also the LCC Central District for sponsoring a portion of the costs of the speaker for the event.

BBQ fundraiser gives crowd the “time of their lives”

Emmanuel’s new sign was sponsored by FaithLife chapter.

SOUTHEY, Sask. - The Beef Pit BBQ started more than 17 years ago as a fundraiser for Zion Lutheran Church in North Southey. The event was first held in the church yard but as conditions changed it was moved to the Southey Rink. The entertainment is usually provided

by Christian singers from the area. This year, “Time of our Lives” performed for about 250 people at the supper. These ladies have roots in the area and have performed before at the supper.

The merged congregations of Zion, North Southey and Emmanuel, Southey hosted the event this year as a FaithLife event. The organizers thank FaithLife representative Dave Smart for his attendance at the Zion and Emmanuel events, FaithLife for the napkins, and all the volunteers and bakers/cooks.

Diane Dennis

Rev. Alex Klages Pastors from B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Minnesota, and Michigan gathered for the retreat.

The Lutheran July/August 201519 3 THE Canadian CANADIAN L UTHERAN July/August 2015

Central District District News Central News

Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Manitoba, NW NW Ontario Ontario Elaine Elaine Stanfel, Stanfel, editor editor

Mission society celebrates 25 years of incorporation. Some REGINA - The Malabar time later the society Mission Society (MMS) received its charity c e l e b ra t e d i t s 2 5 t h status. MMS projects anniversary April 10 at have expanded beyond Mount Olive Lutheran the original Malabar Church, in connection region of Kerala to with the society’s board include Anantapur in meeting and annual the state of Andhra general meeting. Some Pradesh. An offshoot 45 people gathered for Rev. Dr. Roland Miller of MMS, New Hope a delicious East Indian Mission Society, emerged in 2006. “If dinner catered by Flavours of India, we have the conditions to go ahead, a local restaurant. the Holy Spirit will lead us in the Following the dinner, MMS future and will bless us,” Dr. Miller president Rev. Howard Ulmer declared. led a program that featured three Rev. Carlton Riemer, MMS guest speakers. Rev. Dr. Roland project officer, used the acronym LAP Miller, MMS founder, gave some (as in a race) to describe his goals as background information on the he makes his annual trip to India beginnings of mission societies. on behalf of MMS. “L” stands for While such societies had operated in listen: listen more carefully, because Europe for some time, they did not India is changing and developing gain acceptance in North America exponentially. Malabar Mission until the late 20th century.

Circle workers are grateful for MMS The sale of a Lutheran church in support but are also caught up in the Calgary made the creation of MMS increasing cost of living as a result possible. Proceeds from the sale went of these economic changes. While to several ministries, and due to MMS originally intended to focus the efforts of Rev. Val Henning and only on proclaiming the Gospel, it others of his congregation, the sum soon became necessary to help with of $41,145.11 was made available maintenance and repair of church for the Malabar mission. Rev. Ron properties that were damaged by Raedeke, the society’s first president, severe weather and heavy rainfall worked with lawyer Glen Ozem to of 300 to 400 inches annually. Strict draft the constitution and documents

Parade float witness CUPAR, Sask. - Members of St. Paul Lutheran Church took part in a parade celebrating the town’s 110th anniversary July 4. The theme of the float centred on the Resurrection with a cross, tombstone, and a “garden” covering the trailer bed with donated potted plants.

The organizers thank the volunteers and gardeners as well as FaithLife Financial for donating the mints and bookmarks that were thrown to the crowd.

guidelines must be followed for each request. “A” denotes action: act more boldly. In Kannur MMS is reaching out to young men (Open Door) and to young women (Vanitha) through reading room evangelism.

The Society has sent three ESL teams to Kannur with plans to send a fourth to Wandur in October 2015.

An online Bible correspondence course is about to begin under Indian management. “P” means proclaim: proclaim more zealously. It takes zeal to proclaim the Gospel that Jesus died for our sins and rose again from the dead.

Rev. Ro b e r t B u g b e e, L C C president, asked the question: “Why does the church reach out in mission to foreign lands when there is enough work to do in Canada?” In the church, mission work should not be seen as a “frill” after all needs of local congregations have been met. In the mind of Jesus, we are to be His witnesses to the ends of the earth. We are called to spread the good news of the Gospel to our immediate area, to our surrounding areas and to the uttermost parts of the world. LCC reaches out in mission to Central America (Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras), Cambodia, Thailand, and Ukraine.

The commitment to Christ of new Christians in other lands encourages us to greater commitment to Jesus Christ ourselves.

Lorna Pederson

Visit the Central District website at www.lcccentral.ca

The parade float awaiting completion.

Diane Dennis

4 The 2015 20 THECanadian CANADIAN Lutheran LUTHERAN July/August July/August 2015

Send news, photos, articles and announcements six weeks prior to publication month.

Elaine Stanfel, district editor, 509 Airport Road, Pembroke, ON K8A6W7 613-687-6620 E-mail: elaine. stanfel@gmail.com

Next deadline September 16, 2015

East District News News East District

Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia Ilene Fortin, editor Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia Ilene Fortin, editor

Resurrection celebrates 50 years ST. CATHARINES, Ont. - On May 3 the members of Resurrection Lutheran Church gathered to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the congregation. Synodical President Robert Bugbee preached on how the Lord uses His people to do good works and spread the Gospel. This was most appropriate as the congregation reflected upon fifty years of service to God in the community.

Following the service, members and guests enjoyed fellowship with a light lunch. A video photo presentation was put together by Heather Schmidt, which recounted many celebrations and festivities throughout the congregation’s h i s t o r y. T h e re wa s a l s o t h e opportunity to hear from some long-standing members, including Reg Sonnenberg, who shared stories of the initial meetings of the congregation.

The congregation members give thanks to God for the blessings He has bestowed upon Resurrection, and for the wonderful anniversary celebrations. Especially pleasing

The gifts Christ freely NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, Ont. - Trinity Lutheran Church celebrated her 60th anniversary June 28 under the theme “The Gifts Christ Freely Gives.”

The celebration began with organist Michael Nieminen giving a recital of Reformation-era chorales which touch upon the Christian prayer life. These chorales continue to serve as a source of comfort and instruction through their inclusion in the Lutheran Service Book. Nun bitten wir den Heiligen Geist (“To God the Holy Spirit Let Us Pray” LSB 768), Komm, Gott Schöpfer, Heiliger Geist (“Come, Holy Ghost, Creator Blest” LSB 498), and Herr Jesu Christ, dich zu uns wend (“Lord Jesus Christ, Be Present Now” LSB 902) are just three of the many chorales that to this day are the mainstay of congregational singing in our Lutheran churches.

was the fact that refugees from Syria and Iraq President Bugbee that have had to was able to be leave their homes present. He spoke and churches due t o t h e S u n d ay to Islamic State school about terrorism. By Lutheran Church– the end of May Canada being like a big family the offerings In recognition of fifty years of the Light of w h o s e d i n n e r the World shining forth at Resurrection, t o C a n a d i a n t a b l e s t re t c h e s the Mary Martha Society purchased new Lutheran World candlesticks for the altar. The Sunday from Port Alberni school also presented a gift of new Bibles Relief had reached o n Va n c o u v e r to be used in their classes, as well as in $1,380 and the Island to the city the adult Bible class. offerings for the of Halifax in Nova washroom were Scotia. The presence of Dr. Bugbee $3,385 (about half of the anticipated as bishop was a great reminder project budget). that the whole family of LCC has On Saturday, May 9 former pastor something to celebrate even as our Rev. Dennis Putzman preached for little congregation marks a somewhat the Matins prayer service. He noted modest 50 years of God’s grace. that now in his retirement he has The Church Council and the become even more appreciative of Anniversary Committee debated Christ’s gifts in Word and Sacrament and discussed questions of legacy coming to His people continually, over the last few years. The result every Sunday. That is exactly what a of those deliberations were two congregation is all about—we gather projects: building a washroom on because we know that Christ Jesus the upper level of the church, and comes to us with forgiveness and making a donation to support the eternal life in His means of grace.

If all of the other activities at the church were to cease (the choir, the gives Haiti Lutheran Mission Society, the The anniversary celebration then Mary Martha Society, the Lutheran continued with a catered rotisserie Student Fellowship, and all the rest), chicken dinner. While everyone the reason for having a congregation was enjoying the apple pie, greetings would still be here. Christ comes to were given by District President His people.

Paul Zabel, Seminary President Sourced from the anniversary bulletin, Thomas Winger, and District Gift authors including Daniel Putzman, Coordinator Alfred Feth. chairman and Rev. Kurt Lantz, pastor, continued next page among others

Organist Michael Nieminen gives a recital of Reformation-era chorales.

THE CANADIANLutheran LUTHERAN July/August July/August 2015 The Canadian 2015 21 1

East East District News

Ontario, Ontario, Quebec, Quebec, New New Brunswick, Brunswick, Nova Nova Scotia Scotia Ilene Ilene Fortin, Fortin, editor editor

Niagara-on-the-Lake, continued Following dinner Rev. Kurt Reinhardt gave a presentation on prayer. He spoke of how we often attempt to pray in the way of the Law, as if we had to twist God’s arm to get what we want. However, our calling in Christ is to pray in the way of the Gospel, trusting that our heavenly Father is good and gracious and relying on the gifts of Word and Sacrament.

The evening concluded with Vespers. Trinity pastor Rev. Larry Ritter preached about the two ways of treating forgiveness: forgiveness as achieved by Christ on the cross on Good Friday and forgiveness as distributed to us today. Forgiveness comes to us in specific ways.

Forgiveness is not in the air we

breathe, nor does it come to us through a beautiful sunset or because we think we are too nice not to be forgiven. Rather, God pours His forgiveness into us in Holy Baptism, and places His forgiveness into our ears through Holy Absolution and preaching, and even places His forgiveness into our mouths in the Holy Supper.

The members of Trinity would like to thank the 69 people who came out on a wet afternoon to help celebrate sixty years of receiving Christ’s gifts and for helping raise funds for Concordia Seminary’s fall symposium—$527.30 was given in support of the seminary ($1,027.30 with the FaithLife matching grant).

Rev. Larry Ritter

Pilgrim celebrates 50th anniversary of VBS

HAMILTON, Ont. - Pilgrim Lutheran Church celebrated the 50th anniversary of Vacation Bible School in this special year of celebrations. From July 20-24, 55 children learned about Jesus in “Camp Discovery— Jesus at Work Through Us.” Beth Fischer

From the president

Knowing Where Home Is! “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11: 28, KJV). ave you ever taken a vacation or gone on holidays and after a few days away from home thought or said to yourself, “Boy, it sure will be good to be back home again!” When I travel away from home, often times it is these type of thoughts that I find myself having. When it is time to go, I am anxious to get going; but after I am gone for awhile, it sure will feel good to be back home again!

Having grown up and spent my adolescence in an urban environment in the city of Detroit, God sure had a sense of humour in calling me to serve rural congregations for thirty years as a parish pastor. Not long after I arrived in Clifford, Ontario, I can remember my family and I eating supper with one of the dairy farmers and his family who were members of the congregation.

As my children were rather young at the time, we were invited to come wearing clothes that would be appropriate for going out into the dairy barn to see the cows being milked following that evening’s meal. As the cows were out pasturing in a field that was quite a distance away when we arrived, I naively inquired during the course of the meal as to how the cows would be

H

2 The July/August2015 2015 22 THECanadian CANADIAN Lutheran LUTHERAN July/August

gathered into the barn for the milking that night. Would the farmer have to go out and somehow coerce or prod the cows back into the barnyard? The farmer’s simple reply was, “Oh, I don’t have to do that. They always return home in the evening. They know where home is.”

The cows knew where home was. They had their bearings and knew where their security was to be found. They start out following the morning milking to graze in the pasture. Perhaps the day is good for them. They find lush green grasses wherever they go, and a stream from which they can drink refreshing water. Or the day may not be of such a sort. The grass may be sparse and the water inaccessible because of a gate being closed or some other obstacle in the way. There may be thistles with which they have to contend. But they know at end of day where home is.

Do you see the parallel in your life and mine?

There is a loving heavenly Father who waits for us at the close of each day. His invitation is always the same: “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest!” Whether the day has been good or bad, there is no greater happiness for us than to know where our true home is, and to be assured that underneath are the everlasting arms of God. Rev. Paul Zabel

East District News News East District

Ontario, Ontario, Quebec, Quebec, New New Brunswick, Brunswick, Nova Nova Scotia Scotia Ilene Ilene Fortin, Fortin, editor editor

Every three years the District comes together . . .

… to consult each other to determine the future direction of the district . . .

… to elect our district representatives for the next triennium ...

… to hear reports about the work of the past three years . . .

… to worship and praise the Lord together. . .

… to pray together . . .

… to become inspired …

THE CANADIANLutheran LUTHERAN July/August July/August 2015 The Canadian 2015 23 3

East East District News

Ontario, Ontario, Quebec, Quebec, New New Brunswick, Brunswick, Nova Nova Scotia Scotia Ilene Ilene Fortin, Fortin, editor editor

Every three years the District comes together . . . and to offer encouragement.

We do all that but also catch up with old friends and make new friends . . .

… and learn what is happening in our LSOs and affiliates . . .

… and during workshops we hear about our ongoing missions among many other topics.

While behind the scenes our many volunteers have a little fun . . . … and always offer a welcoming smile.

A gift of goats

New Board of Directors: Rev. Paul Zabel, President; Rev. Timothy Teuscher, 1st VP; Rev. Marvin Bublitz, 2nd VP; Mrs. Lois Griffin, Secretary; Deacon David Faerber, Mr. Robert Klages, Mr. Kent Schappert, Rev. Don Schieman, and Mr. Reg Tiegs – Directors-at-Large.

2015 Convention Proceedings: The Proceedings are nearly completed and may already be finished by the time you read this. You can download them from http:// lcceast.ca/district-convention.

All photo credits to Chris Bruer.

Visit the East District website at www.lcceastdistrict.ca

FISHERVILLE, Ontario —The generosity of Trinity Lutheran Sunday school students and their church family enabled the purchase of eight pairs of goats for needy families through Canadian Lutheran World Relief. The Sunday school Lenten offerings purchased two pairs of goats. On Palm Sunday a free-will offering at a lunch served to the congregation raised enough for four more pairs, and proceeds from the congregation’s Good Friday brunch were donated to provide another two pairs. The congregation members pray that the families who receive these goats will be blessed through them.

Sheila Lindsay

4 The July/August2015 2015 24 THECanadian CANADIAN Lutheran LUTHERAN July/August

Send news, photos, articles and announcements six weeks prior to publication month.

Ilene Fortin, district editor East District Office 275 Lawrence Avenue, Kitchener, Ontario N2M 1Y3 E-mail: ilene@lcceast.ca Fax: 519-578-3369

Next deadline: September 16, 2015

Mission Update Another step forward for Nicaraguan children’s computer program Playmobil “Martin Luther” $9.95 CAD +GST PRE-ORDER NOW!

Availability: mid/end July Free shipping for orders of 20 or more.

The Bible House Christian bookstore ILSN Deaconesses pose with new laptop bags and surge protectors.

NICARAGUA - The Children’s Computer Education program in Nicaragua took another step forward in May with the delivery of laptop carrying bags and surge protectors for deaconesses in the Lutheran Church Synod of Nicaragua (ILSN).

These items may seem small to North Americans but they have been received with great joy by the Nicaraguan church. The surge protectors will help minimize computer damage that occurs due to power level fluctuations, a common problem in Nicaragua.

The laptop bags themselves were produced by the ILSN’s sewing school, an institute that teaches women employable skills.

This milestone is the latest in a series for the Children’s Computer Program over the last three years.

First, about seventy laptops had to be obtained, refurbished, and shipped from Canada to Nicaragua before the program could begin.

Lesson plans for students then had to be developed and tested with the children at local ILSN schools, and a training team of deaconesses had to be trained in the basics of computers, including the operating system Ubuntu and word processing program LibreOffice.

This training team then provided bi-monthly training to

deaconesses throughout the ILSN schools. This team also visited local schools to train students and assist deaconesses in computer use. In January 2015, a member of Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC) visited Nicaragua to provide on-site computer support and training to 20 deaconesses and further offered a half day computer training session for the wider community. LCC also anticipates providing further field computer training in December 2015.

The Computer Education program is just one part of the larger Children’s Education program supported by LCC and the ILSN. The program provides children with support in their school studies, but also provides spiritual instruction in the Christian faith.

Details on this project, as well as others, are available from LCC’s website. LCC’s Committee for Missions and Social Ministry requests your continued prayers and support. If you would like practical ideas on how you can help—by helping transport laptops to Nicaragua, for example, or through financial support—please c o n t a c t L C C ’ s E xe c u t i ve f o r Missions and Social Ministry, Rev. Dr. Leonardo Neitzel at missions@ lutheranchurch.ca or by phone at 1-800-588-4226 ext. 2215.

info@sbmtl.com & librairie@sbmtl.com 514-848-9777 & 1-888-242-5398 Online store: librairie.sbmtl.com 1340-625, Ste.Catherine W. Montreal, Quebec, H3B 1B7

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2015

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Education Report Dr. Hellwege to join Edmonton faculty EDMONTON - Concordia Lutheran Seminary (CLS) has announced that Rev. Dr. John P. Hellwege, Jr. has accepted the call to serve as Assistant Professor of Theology at the seminary, beginning this fall.

“A f t e r m u c h p r a y e r a n d deliberation, I am convinced that it is God’s will that I should accept the call to serve as Assistant Professor of Theology at Concordia Lutheran Seminary,” Dr. Hellwege writes in his acceptance letter. “I am looking forward to joining you at CLS and serving our Lord and His Church in Canada.”

Dr. Hellwege received his Master of Divinity in 1999 and a Master of Sacred Theology in 2000, both from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri. In 2009 he received a PhD in Historical Theology, also from Concordia Seminary, with a thesis discussing American Lutheran

perceptions of pre-war Nazi Germany.

Dr. Hellwege has served the last seven years as pastor at Emmaus Lutheran Church in St. Louis, Missouri. In addition to parish ministry, he has served as an adjunct professor at Concordia University (Seward, Nebraska) from 2003-2004, and as adjunct professor at Concordia University (Mequon, Wisconsin) from 2008-present. He has also served as a guest lecturer at Concordia Seminary (St. Louis, Missouri) since 2009.

Dr. Hellwege also served as a freelance editor for Concordia Publishing House from 2009-2011.

He has contributed to three book projects as an editor and writer: The Lutheran Difference, Lutheranism 101, and Law & Gospel: How to Read and Apply the Bible. His academic research has received two awards from Concordia Historical Institute, and he has been asked to give a plenary

Rev. Dr. John P. Hellwege, Jr.

paper at Concordia Theological Seminary’s (Ft. Wayne, Indiana) 2015 Annual Symposium on the Lutheran Confessions.

CLTS President’s new commentary on Ephesians now available ST. CATHARINES, Ontario - In June, Concordia Publishing House (CPH) released the 28th volume of its landmark Concordia Commentary series. This volume (on Ephesians) was written by Rev. Dr. Thomas Winger, President of Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary (CLTS) in St. Catharines, Ontario.

“Dr. Winger’s commentary unfolds the mysteries of the Gospel through meticulous analysis of the Greek text and reverent exposition of the epistle’s proclamation of Christ and His gifts for the sake of the Church,” a CPH release notes. “Winger’s commentary addresses such timeless topics as our eternal election in Christ; salvation by grace through faith apart from works; one Lord, one faith, one Baptism; the gift of the Holy Ministry; the Christological meaning of marriage; and the resplendent armor of God, which we so desperately require in this time of spiritual peril.”

“Although my interpretation of Ephesians is distinctive, I’m really just applying to this particular text

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what I’ve learned from my teachers,” Dr. Winger noted in an interview with the Concordia Academic blog.

“I see my work as part of a renewed consciousness of our Lutheran and catholic heritage, exegesis in and for the church.”

“Remarkably, there has not been a major commentary on Ephesians in the past few generations that both accepts Pauline authorship and believes it was written to the church at Ephesus,” Dr. Winger continued. “So, firstly, by reading the letter against what we know about the Ephesian church and Paul’s ministry from Acts 18-21, I hope to offer a distinctive insight into its purpose. Secondly, I try to connect the letter’s contents to the sacramental and liturgical life of the church as much as possible. I hope this makes my commentary useful for the preacher.”

On September 14, 2015 CLTS will be celebrating the publication of Dr. Winger’s commentary with a conference on the Apostle Paul’s message to the Church today. Lunch

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2015

will be provided, and a limited number of tickets for the dinner are available for purchase. The seminary asks those wishing to attend to please register by September 1. For more information, please visit CLTS’ website at www. concordia-seminary.ca, call (905) 6882362 ext. 22, or email concordia@ brocku.ca.

NEWS Summer 2015

OUR MISSION

|

Dr. John Colangeli

Marilyn Jacobi

CEO

Editor

Published by Lutherwood Foundation 285 Benjamin Road, Waterloo, ON N2J 3Z4 | Phone: 519-884-1470

Building on our Christian heritage, Lutherwood reaches out and supports people of all backgrounds and beliefs with care and compassion to build and sustain better and more hopeful futures.

“He Makes All Things New” A tradition of sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ for over 40 years continued this past Easter as youth once again heard the Good News of the Risen Christ. This year’s celebration was centered on the theme of “He Makes All Things New.” This theme has in many ways been the center of Lutherwood’s ministry to troubled youth since the idea for such a social service was conceived in 1967 by members of what is now the Lutheran Church – Canada. Opening its doors in 1971, Lutherwood has been a special place for youth to learn new ways of coping with the very real struggles of life. Over the years, caring and professional staff at Lutherwood have been the hands and ears of Christ as suffering youth have had the opportunity to learn and grow in very practical ways as they cope with mental health issues, family, and social crisis in their young lives.

As important and wonderful as the practical work is that is done with the youth, it has been the Christian context of these services that has set Lutherwood apart as a place for change. The centrality of the Gospel message has been the heart and soul of the social work done with Lutherwood’s youth over the years.

As the Chaplain at Lutherwood, I have been struck by the number of children who are hearing the truth about the real meaning of Easter.

This year, like other years, presented another wonderful opportunity to present the Good News of our Risen Saviour to children who have not heard the message of God’s love and forgiveness in Jesus Christ. Our Easter Service this year involved our students by having them read St. John’s account of the resurrection.

Other youth were involved by singing hymns of praise and songs speaking to the theme of new life in Christ. Residents of Luther Village on the Park, in Waterloo, also contributed to the service by way

of readings, hymns, and prayer.

Members of Lutheran Church – Canada were also in attendance and shared in the celebration which included lunch with the youth following the service.

It may have been this witness of faith that made this year’s Easter Service so special. In hearing the presentation of the Good News of Easter, our students were invited to

Pastor Jeff Kentel, Chaplain

reflect on how God really does make all things new. The reality of the new life, change, and growth can be seen in the hearts and lives of believers – specifically, the desire to share the love of God that He has shown to us. Students were told of the story of Lutherwood’s beginnings and history – how Christians wanted to share with others what God had done in their lives. In this way, Lutherwood has been a living example of how God is at work making things new in the hearts and lives of those He has lovingly created. It is something that our students connect with immediately as they quickly come to experience the rich traditions of love and care extended to them in practical but also spiritual ways here at this unique place of change.

If you have been involved in the church’s ministry to troubled youth over the years, I would like to express my deep appreciation. With your on-going prayers and support, may Lutherwood continue to be a place where God makes things new in the hearts and lives of those He loves.

Lutheran Church Canada East District Convention – May 2015

Lutheran Women’s Missionary League National Convention – July 2015 A time of worship and fellowship mixed with some business and fun awaited the women attending the National Convention in Waterloo.

Lutherwood was pleased to be a part of it and share our display and the work we do with not only our East District LWML groups but those from across Canada. We are very grateful that many churches in our district support us with ongoing donations of quilts and stuffed animals.

Pastor Bob Krestick (Lutherwood Board Member and former Chaplain) and Pastor Roger Winger (Past Lutherwood Board Member) share a laugh at the Convention.

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Teddy bears and quilts were the order of the day when St. John’s Clifford ladies came to visit.

Members of First Lutheran Logan LWML came to visit Lutherwood in April with beautiful quilts for our youth.

Kitchener Zone LWML Spring Rally The churches in the Kitchener Zone presented Lutherwood with their Ingathering from the Spring Rally. At their Fall Rally they will have Tana Nash, Executive Director of Waterloo Region Suicide Prevention Council speak to them about bullying and suicide with youth.

Marilyn Jacobi, Donor Relations & Planned Giving, brings greetings on behalf of Dr. John Colangeli and Lutherwood.

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Gladys Bender is seen checking out the stuffed animals. She is responsible for ensuring that every child that is in care at Lutherwood gets a quilt and animal upon discharge.

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2015

Dr. John Colangeli, CEO; Gladys Bender, Nurse Therapist; and Marilyn Jacobi, Donor Relations and Planned Giving take a minute from looking at the stuffed animals to pose for a picture.

Lutherwood Foundation NEWS • Summer 2015

A New System and New Hope for Children’s Mental Health in Ontario

Now, Lutherwood has been given an opportunity to make an even greater impact on the lives of children and families suffering with mental health issues.

Lutherwood has been appointed the “lead agency for children’s mental health” for the Region of Waterloo which includes Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge and the surrounding rural areas. Families who have children suffering from emotional, behavioural and mental health problems have for many years often had a difficult road to follow in the quest to find help and treatment. Perhaps you know someone or are someone who has had this experience.

Most people have been affected by some form of mental health issue in a family member or a friend. The array of services or, in some locations across the province, the lack of services were confusing and daunting for people who did not know where to go. Even professionals such as

teachers and doctors found the system confusing.

This is going to change. Ontario’s Ministry of Children and Youth (MCYS) set out a vision for Ontario that will create a children’s mental health system that is easy to enter and navigate, is accountable and offers the same services no matter where one lives.

There are now 33 areas in Ontario that will have a lead agency whose job it is to help build this new system with partner agencies and other services such as school boards, hospital and the police.

To date, the Ministry has identified 17 of the 33 and Lutherwood is in this first phase. In fact, we recently developed a vision with our partners, including input from youth and families, which will guide us in our work:

“Children, youth and families get compassionate, quality mental health supports when and where they need them.”

This year we have identified gaps in services and will be working hard to address them. After decades of helping children and families find hope again, Lutherwood is honoured to lead these efforts for the Waterloo Region. Being the lead agency for children’s mental health is an exciting next step for Lutherwood and the beginning of a new era for children, youth and families experiencing mental health issues.

Yes, I want to give hope to children, youth and families. Please accept my gift of… o $100

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Dr. John Colangeli, CEO

For 45 years, children and youth with mental health issues have been at the centre of Lutherwood’s mission.

Our services have grown greatly during this time and our passion for the work continues to burn as brightly as ever.

Canadian Lutheran 2015

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2015

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Lutherwood’s Lifelong Impact At the most recent Lutherwood Board meeting, Robert Krestick, emeriti Pastor, Lutheran Church-Canada, and longstanding Board member, opened the meeting with the devotion based upon St. Luke’s account of Simeon meeting the Saviour.

He mentioned visiting his Mom who has been living with Alzheimer’s. Although unable to function as she always had, the singing of the Nunc Dimittis, which was part of her every Sunday worship life, brought her joy. He described her joining in and also with the Lord’s Prayer and other scripture quoting parts from the Liturgy.

Using this as an introduction “Pastor Bob” who is a former Lutherwood Chaplain mentioned a phone call from a former Lutherwood student who was residing in a penitentiary. The prison Chaplain had connected him with Chaplain Krestick. They had much to talk about and they ended their conversation with the Lord’s Prayer.

The 40 something former client also recited Luther’s Morning Prayer together with his chaplain friend.

“I thank Thee, my Heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Thy dear Son, that Thou hast kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray Thee to keep me this day also from sin and all evil, that all my doings and life may please Thee.

For into Thy hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Thy holy angel be with me, that the Wicked Foe may have no power over me. Amen.”

He repeated to all around the table about the power of the Word of the Lord which will never leave a person even if it

seems they are far away from it. Pastor Krestick shared with the board how Lutherwood was Donna Buchan, built on the Word of Executive Director God and how the Word Lutherwood Foundation remains no matter what changes are coming our way.

It warms our hearts when we hear of the difference Lutherwood has made to the lives of people years after they leave our care. Former clients often return and share the special memories they hold of their time living and learning here. One man, now in his 30’s, told me he still hears the voices of his Lutherwood counselors guiding him to make good decisions. Another brought his wife and two teenage children to tour the place that meant so much to him and helped him on the path to a successful life. And another, who lives out west, made sure that a vacation back to Ontario, included a visit to Lutherwood and a chat with some of the youth who currently live here now so that he could assure them “Life does get better.”

Why is Lutherwood such a special place? It is special because every young person is treated with kindness and respect. Every young person is given the tools and strategies to help them manage their serious mental health challenges. Every young person is given the opportunity to develop their spiritual self. Every young person’s strengths and gifts are acknowledged.

It is an honour and a privilege to care for these children.

And it does our hearts good when we know that our words and prayers have touched their lives deeply.

STEPS for Kids a Huge Success Early in May Lutherwood held its annual Steps for Kids event. There were 680 friends all in one place and all for one cause. Together, they raised a record breaking $121,000 that goes directly to support the children with mental health challenges who live and learn at Lutherwood.

That’s powerful. Imagine how it felt to the youth at Lutherwood to see hundreds of people join together with one vision and focus: walking in support of their mental health. It was truly an inspiring day.

The youth who spoke at the event summed it up best… “Since being at Lutherwood I have gained a lot of knowledge about myself, built up my self-esteem and I feel more prepared for the future.”

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THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2015

Lutherwood Foundation NEWS • Summer 2015

Classified

Love movies?

Love God?

Find the connection between the two at www.CanadianLutheran.ca as Rev. Ted Giese reviews the latest films from a Christian perspective.

Camp Koinonia on Lake Isle in central Alberta may just be the perfect location for your family reunion, wedding, retreat or VBS! Our heated Pavilion is available throughout the year for use by the week, the weekend, or the day. Campsites adjacent to the Pavilion and closer to the lake may be rented as well. Members of a Lutheran church are invited to consider joining our unique lake community by taking out a renewable license to use one of our lots. An affordable and family-oriented Christian camp that features playgrounds, a sports court, an outdoor chapel, and Sunday worship throughout the camp season: we may be just what you’ve been looking for. For more information, please visit www.lakeislelutherancamp. com or contact us today at 780-7272477 or LCA.Camp@outlook.com.

Transitions Rev. Dr. John Hellwege (LCMS), to Assistant Professor of Theology at Concordia Lutheran Seminary (CLS), Edmonton, AB. Installation: September 21, 2015 at CLS. Rev. Nolan Astley to ABC District Pastoral Leader. Installation: October 4, 2015 at Concordia Lutheran Church, Edmonton.

Rev. David Haberstock, Epiphany Lutheran Church, Thunder Bay, ON to Grace Lutheran Church, Regina, SK. Installation: TBA. Rev. Ward Yunker, Candidate, to Grace Lutheran Church, Beausejour, MB. Installation: September 13, 2015.

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THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2015

31

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This 4-session video-based Bible study, hosted by Rev. Dr. John Nunes, offers the viewpoints of four people who have made a remarkable journey from the outer edges of unbelief and apathy to a place where today Jesus Christ commands their heartfelt devotion. The road to faith was not easy for them, and many were the times when abandoning it seemed the preferred route to travel.

Still, the persistence of the Holy Spirit’s work in their lives brought about a different outcome, with an eternal transformation. As with all Men’s NetWork Bible studies, The Journey from Unbelief to Faith has an in-depth discussion guide focusing on each session’s topic, with relevant Scripture references, pointed questions to promote thought and participant interaction, and numerous Internet links so users can further explore session subjects online. View online at lhm.org/ men/studies or purchase the DVD with study guide (Item 64E56).

Listen to The Lutheran Hour on radio, by app, or online at www.lutheranhour.ca.

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THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2015

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1.800.563.6237

270 Lawrence Ave Kitchener, ON, N2M 1Y4 www.LLL.ca 1-800-555-6236 or helpful@LLL.ca

Daily Bible Reading

All the people listened attentively...

A

particularly striking episode in this issue’s readings tells how the people gathered in newly rebuilt Jerusalem to hear the Scriptures read publicly. “Ezra opened the book,” we read, “and as he opened it, the people all stood up. Ezra praised the LORD, the great God; and all the people lifted their hands and responded, ‘Amen! Amen!’” before falling down on their faces in worship (Ne 8:5-6). May we respond to God’s Word with similar passion!

Find earlier readings in previous issue of The Canadian Lutheran, o r d ow n l o a d t h e m a t w w w. canadianlutheran.ca/biblereading/.

“Faith springs from the seed of the Divine Word. For the Word is that by means of which the Holy Spirit is conveyed to our souls.”

- Johann Gerhard

WEEK 32  Mon  Tues  Wed  Thurs  Fri  Sat

2Ki 6:1–7:20 2Ki 8:1–29 2Ki 9:1–10:36 2Ki 11:1–12:21 2Ki 13:1–14:29 2Ki 15:1–16:20

WEEK 36  Mon  Tues  Wed  Thurs  Fri  Sat

2Ch 1:1–2:18 2Ch 3:1–5:14 2Ch 6:1–7:22 2Ch 8:1–9:31 2Ch 10:1–11:23 2Ch 12:1–16

WEEK 40  Mon  Tues  Wed  Thurs  Fri  Sat

Ezr 9:1–10:44 Ne 1:1–11 Ne 2:1–3:32 Ne 4:1–6:19 Ne 7:1–8:18 Ne 9:1–10:39

WEEK 33  Mon  Tues  Wed  Thurs  Fri  Sat

2Ki 17:1–41 2Ki 18:1–19:37 2Ki 20:1–21 2Ki 21:1–26 2Ki 22:1–23:37 2Ki 24:1–25:30

WEEK 37  Mon  Tues  Wed  Thurs  Fri  Sat

2Ch 13:1–14:15 2Ch 15:1–16:14 2Ch 17:1–18:34 2Ch 19:1–20:37 2Ch 21:1–22:12 2CH 23:1–24:27

WEEK 41  Mon  Tues  Wed  Thurs  Fri  Sat

Ne 11:1–13:31 Est 1:1–2:23 Est 3:1–4:17 Est 5:1–7:10 Est 8:1–10:3 Jb 1:1–22

WEEK 34  Mon  Tues  Wed  Thurs  Fri  Sat

1Ch 1:1–4:43 1Ch 5:1–8:40 1Ch 9:1–12:40 1Ch 13:1–14:17 1Ch 15:1–16:43 1Ch 17:1–27

WEEK 38  Mon  Tues  Wed  Thurs  Fri  Sat

2Ch 25:1–26:23 2Ch 27:1–28:27 2Ch 29:1–36 2Ch 30:1–31:21 2Ch 32:1–33 2Ch 33:1–25

WEEK 42  Mon  Tues  Wed  Thurs  Fri  Sat

Jb 2:1–3:26 Jb 4:1–5:27 Jb 6:1–7:21 Jb 8:1–10:3 Jb 11:1–12:25 Jb 13:1–14:22

WEEK 35  Mon  Tues  Wed  Thurs  Fri  Sat

1Ch 18:1–20:8 1Ch 21:1–30 1Ch 22:1–19 1Ch 23:1–27:34 1Ch 28:1–21 1Ch 29:1–30

WEEK 39  Mon  Tues  Wed  Thurs  Fri  Sat

2Ch 34:1–35:27 2Ch 36:1–23 Ezr 1:1–2:70 Ezr 3:1–4:24 Ezr 5:1–6:22 Ezr 7:1–8:36

WEEK 43  Mon  Tues  Wed  Thurs  Fri  Sat

Jb 15:1–17:16 Jb 18:1–19:29 Jb 20:1–21:34 Jb 22:1–24:25 Jb 25:1–28:28 Jb 29:1–31:40

Readings for the above plan are from the Lutheran Study Bible © 2006 Concordia Publishing House. Used with permission. To purchase this resource or other Bible reading resources, please visit CPH at www.cph.org.

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2015

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Presidential Perspective

Confidence in the midst of persecution Second Vice President Thomas Kruesel

T

his edition of The Canadian Lutheran focuses on the changes facing our church in Canada. Most of us are aware that this has been going on for a long time, and that it is not unique to our church body.

Our world is different from just 25 years ago. The religious landscape in Canada is becoming more fractured. Those holding to the Christian faith are now in a minority, and the teachings of the Church make it an unwelcome p a r t i c i p a n t i n c o n ve r s a t i o n s regarding almost everything. The question that faces us is, what should our attitude be regarding these changes? We can rail against them and bemoan the moral decline of our society, or we can see them for what they are: the natural state of a world disfigured by sin.

It should not surprise us that we as Christians are beginning to face persecution for our faith. Jesus himself tells us, “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world.

That is why the world hates you” (John 15:18-19). Rather than facing these changes with trepidation and fear, we can face them in the strength of our Lord, who has overcome the world.

So what should our attitude be toward the persecution that has started, and will likely continue to mount, against us? I admit with some shame that at times

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the thought runs through my mind, “If I face persecution like my brothers and sisters in Africa, the Middle East and Asia, I’ll take up arms to defend myself and my family.” Perhaps you have thought something similar. My question is: where does this kind of thinking come from? The only source I can identify is the world.

Part of the decline of society is the over-emphasis on individual rights. As a society we have turned just about everything into a “right.”

Society has pushed this so far that now even the determination of right and wrong is an individual “right.” This kind of thinking lies behind my desire to defend myself, and my right to practice my faith: “It’s my right!” But neither Scripture nor Martin Luther look at the exercise of their faith as a right to be defended, even by force. Jesus says, “But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also” (Matthew 5:39).

Luther says, “Where governmental authority is an enemy of the Gospel, we withdraw, sell, relinquish everything, and flee from state to state, because no tumult should be stirred up by resistance for the sake of the Gospel, but everything should be endured.”

In fact, both Scripture and Luther go so far as to look at persecution as a privilege and b l e s s i n g . “ B l e s s e d a re t h o s e who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven”(Matthew

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2015

5 : 10 ) . L u t h e r s p o ke a b o u t a Christian’s attitude toward persecution in his usual colourful manner: “Although all the devils, the world, our neighbours, and our own people are our enemies, revile and slander us, pound and plague us, we should consider this nothing but a shovelful of manure dumped around the vine to fertilize it well.”

The only way we can stand u p ( a n d eve n re j o i c e ) u n d e r persecution is when we remember that we, God’s children, are never alone. Luther says, “It is a laughable and ludicrous threat to scare Christ and His Christians with death, seeing that they are lords and victors of death. It is like trying to frighten a man by saddling his horse and letting him ride it,” and, “We should not fear harsh treatment, but prosperity and good days we should fear. These may harm us more than fear and persecution.”

Paul expresses this confidence in the beautiful words of Romans 8:38-39: “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

It is my prayer that we see persecution for our faith for what it is: the world’s raging against our Lord. May we not only stand up under persecution but, in God’s strength, be ready to give a powerful witness to the faith and hope we have in Jesus.

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