December 2003

PUBLICATION OF THE U.S. CONFERENCE OF MENNONITE BRETHREN CHURCHES

DECEMBER

FIRST WORDS

2003

•••from the editor

This month we celebrate the birth ofJesus Christ. In our opening article scholar Kenneth E. Bailey describes Middle Eastern customs and practices related to Christ's birth in an effort to help us more accurately understand the Luke 2 account. We invited a variety of Mennonite Brethren men and women to refiect on the way in which they celebrate the birth ofJesus Christ at Christmas. These essays show how we prepare for the season individually, as families and as congregations. You will read about a Christmas in Guatemala 60 years ago and about recent Christmas celebrations in a federal prison. Several of the essays are contributed by pastors, who are often busy helping the rest of us prepare for our congregational celebrations.

Reading these essays, I am reminded of the important role tradition plays in our Christmas celebrations. Family Christmas traditions, Dave Prince says in his essay, can give our celebrations focus. When those things we do each-or at least, most-ehristmas seasons grow out of our theology and convictions, our traditions serve us well. But when we forget why we started a particular tradition, we are left with a pattern of behavior instead of an expression of our faith. One way our Christmas traditions can better be used to help us and our children see the connection to our Christian convictions is to talk about why we do something. Why in December does our family often make "ice" candles and then eat our evening meal by candlelight? Because making candles keeps the kids busy on a Saturday morning? Well yes, but more importantly it is to remind us that Jesus is the light of the world. Why does the Prince family bake during December? Because cookies taste so good? Maybe, but it also gives them an opportunity to share with others, and to spend time together as a family. "Why?" is more than an annoying question from a two-year-old. During the Christmas holidays, talking about why can remind us of the importance of keeping our traditions focused on Jesus Christ.

Christmas season events submitted by several congregations are highlighted in Church News and Notes. Our news section this month also includes a report from the Pacific District Conference, information about the upcoming U.S. Conference convention and announcements regarding a change in leadership at MBMS International and MB Biblical Seminary. We celebrate the 40-year ministry of Roland and Lois Reimer, who this month are retiring as the Southern District Conference minister couple.

May this issue of the Leader in some way enhance your celebration of the greatest gift of all-God's gift of his son Jesus Christ, the "Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world" Oohn 1:29).-

PageS

CF

COMING • JANUARY 25, 2004-Mennonite World Conference World

Page 22

Fellowship Sunday • FEBRUARY 15, 2004-U. S. Conference Peace Sunday • JULY 21-23, 2004-National pastors' convention, Salt Lake

City, Utah • JULY 23-25, 2004-U.S. Conference convention, Salt Lake

City, Utah • JULY 25-26, 2004-55-Plus Conference, Salt Lake City, Utah

2

•

THE

CHRISTIAN

LEADER

Art Credits: Cover photo courtesy of College Community Church, Clovis, Calif.

Printing by Valley Offset Printing, Valley Center, Kan.

INSIDE DECEMBER

2003

FEATURES - Christmas 4 The manger and the inn Our assumption that Mary and Joseph were rejected in Bethlehem does not take into account life in the Middle East. When we have a more precise cultural awareness of the inn and manger referred to by Luke in his account of Jesus' birth, important theological content to the story of the birth is restored. BY KENNETH E. BAILEY

VOLUME 66, NUMBER 12

8 Celebrating the gift of Jesus Our Christmas celebrations this month will be enriched by personal, family and congregational experiences and traditions. Seven Mennonite Brethren share how they celebrate the gift of Jesus at Christmas.

Celebrating Christ's birth as a church by Jean Janzen Celebrating Christ's birth in the advent season by Thorn Justice Celebrating Christ's birth in community by Jose Elizondo Celebrating Christ's birth as a pastor by Dave Prince Celebrating Christ's birth in Guatemala by Betty Fergason Celebrating the gift of Christ's birth at a federal prison by Lowell Entz Celebrating Christ's birth in a Slavic home by Albina Nesterenko

13 Nativity scenes tell more than just the Christmas story Nativity scenes from various countries and time periods show how people see Jesus and the world he came to save. They remind us that Jesus came to save all mankind, regardless of our station in life. BY MICHAEL

J. PAQUETTE

14 Advent Prayer DEPARTMENTS Ph'lip Side

by Philip Wiebe 16

• Signs in the sky

Inquiring Minds

by MaNin Hein 17

• Understanding MCCs goals in the Holy Land

:>n the Journey

by Rose Buschman 18

• Ukraine vacation leads to ministry

:huck's Corner

by Chuck Buller 19

• I've changed my mind!

Sodylife . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 • Roland and Lois Reimer reflect on years of duo ministry .. , 20 • PDC challenged to be "bold and fearless" in its efforts 22 MBs to explore identity at summer convention 25 • Host church brings authenticity, freedom to Salt Lake City .. 26 • MB mission agency to see change in leadership and direction 27

• u.s.

eader 2003 Index 28 , Brief 31 hurch News & Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 hristmas Poem 36 • by Jean Janzen

INTERIM EDITOR Connie Faber NEWS WRITER Myra Holmes

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Nadine Friesen GRAPHIC DESIGNER Elaine Ewert

BOARD OF COMMUNICATIONS: Kathy Heinrichs Wiest, chair; Peggy Goertzen, Reggie Hunt, Phil Neufeld, Moises Tagle, Dalton Reimer MANDATE: The Christian Leader (ISSN 0009-5149) is published monthly by the U.s. Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches. The Christian Leader seeks to inform Mennonite Brethren members and churches of the events, activities, decisions and issues of their denomination, and to instruct, inspire and initiate dialogue so members will aspire to be faithful disciples of Christ as understood in the evangelicaVAnabaptist theological tradition.

EDITORIAL POUCY: The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the position of the Christian Leader, the Board of Communications or the Mennonite Brethren Church. Scripture references are from New International Version unless otherwise noted. The editors invite free-lance article submissions. A SASE must accompany articles.

READER PARTIOPATION: The editors invite readers to share their thoughts and opinions on topics relevant to the Mennonite Brethren Church using letters to the editor and Forum essays. Letters to the editor should be brief - 300 words or less - and on one subject.

Letters must be signed and include the writer's city and state. Letters will be edited for clarity, appropriateness and length. Letters will be published, as space allows, unless marked "Not for publication." Forum is open to members or attendees of Mennonite Brethren churches. Essays should not exceed 800 words, and should include the writer's name, address, home church and occupation.

COMMUNICATION: All correspondence, including change of address, should be addressed to the Christian Leader, Box 220, Hillsboro, KS 67063.

Phone: (620)947-5543. Fax: (620)947-3266. E-mail: christianleader@usmb.org.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Rates: $16 for one year, $30 for two years and $42 for three years ($20, $3B, $54 in Canada); $1.50 per copy.

MEMBERSHIP: The Christian Leader is a member of the Evangelical Press Association and Meetinghouse, an association of Mennonite and Brethren in Christ editors.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Christian Leader, Box 220, Hillsboro, KS 67063. Periodicals postage paid at Hillsboro, Kansas.

DECEMBER

2003

•

3

CHRISTMAS

"

,

When we are aware of Middle Eastern custom, we gain a ntw i understanding of the story of Christ's birth and the m ssage that he came to save all mankind.

I i r EST, THE TRADITIONAL TELLING OF THE blrth sto~ ofJesus is overlaid with mythology. I am not re Santa Claus, snow; bells and Rudolph, but rather r understanding of the biblical text itself. the centuries, we have introduced into Scriptu lti1Ia remarkable number of mythological elem+ts.~ So of these. are so old and so pervasive that thc:;y are u consciously affirmed.

FOr pIe, we assume that Jesus was born the ~nd Joseph arrived in Bethlehem. At Christmas time in the average Western church, Luke 2:1-' is read. The children of the congregation then enact a play which has the Christ child born the night of their arrival.

What Luke 2:3 actually says is that the holy family ''went up" to Bethlehem. Then, verse 6 reads, "While they were there, her days were fulfilled ...." This naturally means that the last stages of Mary's pregnancy (two weeks? a month?) took place in Bethlehem.

Furthermore, was it in the winter? During the winter in Bethlehem, shepherds return to their villages at night. Only in summer do they occasionally spend the night in the fields.

How do we know there were three wise men? The text affirms three kinds of gifts, but there could have been 10 wise men. The Magi came from "the East." If the original teller of the story was in Palestine, then "the East" means the other side of the Jordan River. Writing in the second century, Justin Martyr (Dialogue with

1

4

• THE CHRISTIAN

LEADER

7rypho) asserts that the Magi came from Arabia.

So we could go on.

The popular understanding of the Chtistmas story is a good illustration of the problem of teXt and tradition. In this brief article I intend to look at two questions: "What was the inn?" and "Where was the manger?"

In .both cases, surprises await us. Amore precise cultur-:. al awareness, I am convinced, can restore important thet olOgical content to the story of the birth ofJesus.

The late-night arrival 1b begin with, the account is clearly Palestinian in character. All the hymns of David are steeped in the Old 'Thstament and use Hebrew parallelism in their construe· tion. The Palestinian custom of wrapping a newborn child (Luke 2:7) is as old as Ezek. 16:4. Thus Middle J Eastern culture must be assumed for the story.

In the light of thls fact, the popular western assumption_of rejection at Bethlehem is cUlturally extremely problematic in a Middle Eastern world.

To begin with, Mary has relatives "in the hill coun· try" ofJudea whom she has just visited (Luke 1:39). Lukt reports that Mary and Elizabeth are related. The reader is informed otthis fact a few verses before the account of the birth in 'Bethlehem. Thus, if the couple arrives in Bethlehem and ftnds no shelter, never mind, Mary's relatives are nearby. They are welcome there. There is time to seek shelter with Zechariah and Elizabeth.

CHRISTMAS

by Kenneth E • Bailey

Furthermore, Joseph is of the "house and lineage of David." A recitation of his recent genealogy will open almost any home in Bethlehem. When a self·respecting "son of the village" returns to the town of his origins in the Middle East, a royal welcome always awaits him.

Finally, as noted, the text affirms that they were in Bethlehem until "her days were fulfilled." Is Joseph so totally inept that after an extended search (a week? two weeks? a month?) he cannot arrange anything except a stable? The traditional understanding of the story is a slur on the ability and integrity of)oseph.

Is the entire village of Bethlehem so hard-hearted that no home is open to a woman about to give birth? Indeed, the late·night arrival myth slurs all the inhabitants of Bethlehem, not just the mythological innkeeper! In short, our Western tradition has invented details that do not fit the Middle Eastern world as a real story about real people in a real village.

Would it not be unacceptable in any cultUre for a man with a pregnant wife to reject the hospitality of his wife's fam· ily and opt for a stable as a delivery room? So how are the particularities of the text to be understood?

on arrival at his house to ask, "'Where is the kataluma (translated guest room) where I am to eat the Passover with my disciples?' And he will show you a large upper room (anagaton) furnished."

Here, kataluma is unambiguously defined. It means a guestroom attached to a private home. So Luke indicates a commercial inn with the word pandokheion and a private guest room with kataluma.

What about the inn?

In the West, we have assumed that there was an "inn" in the story. Thus, no room in the inn. The word translated in the Western versions as "inn" in Luke 2:7 is the Greek word kataluma. But when Luke uses this word, does he real· ly mean an inn?

In the story of the Good Samaritan, the wounded man is clearly taken to a commercial establishment that provides shelter for strangers. However, Luke has the men arrive at a pandokheton (10:34), not a kataluma. Pandokheton is the common Greek word for an inn.

Luke knows this word and uses it. So, if for Luke pandokheton means a cammer· cial inn, what does he intend by the word kataluma?

Aclear answer is aVailable. The only :>ther use of kataluma in Luke's Gospel is in 22:11. Here the disciples are told to 'allow a man carrying a jar of water and DECEMBER

2003

•

5

C I-I R 1ST \1 A S

The manger I~ then, "no room for them in the inn" should really be translated "no room for them in the guest room," what then of the manger?

To answer this question, it is necessary to observe the construction of Palestinian traditional one-room homes. Such buildings are "split-level" homes. There is a small, lower level for the animals at one end. About 80 percent of the one room is a raised tertace on which the family cooks, eats and lives.

The two levels are connected by a shon set ofstairs.

Into the lower level the family cO\Vy donkey and a few sheep are brought each night. In the moming, these animals are taken out into a courtyard, the area is cleaned and the house is ready for the day.

This common daily routine is so firmly established in the village home that Jesus can presuppose it while talking to the head of the synagogue in Luke 13:15. He says, "Does not each ofyou on the Sabbath untie his ox or his ass from the manger and lead it away to water it?"

The Western reader hears the word "manger" and immediately assumes that a stable is intended. But if the animals had been in a stable, the head of the synagogue could have answered, "I never touch the animals on the Sabbathl" He cannot so reply, because there are no stables. Funher, everyone knows that all village families keep the animals in the house overnight and that it is unthinkable to leave them there all day. Thus, Jesus could, with full assurance, confront the leaders of the synagogue with the above challenge, knowing that each of them had carried out this simple chore that very morning.

Aone-room house is also presupposed in Matt.

5:15 where the light of a single lamp shines on all in the house.

In passing, we can note that the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem is built over the ancient traditional site of the birth ofJesus. The location itself is a precise example of what we have described above, namely a single room with a small lower level.

This same village architecture is also assumed in the Old Testament where the medium at Endor takes a fatted calf from "within the house," kills it and offers it to Saul and his servants (1 Sam. 28:24-25). In Judges 11, the tragic Jephthah pledges that, if victorious, he will sacrifice whatever first comes out of his house on his return (vv. 30-31). The animals are in the house, and he natufally anticipates the sacrifice of an animal. To his horror, he is greeted by his only daughter. The entire story turns on the fact that he is surprised and stunned when she appears.

The reader needs to know that the animals move

6 •

THE

CHRISTIAN

LEADER

daily in and out of the house. Thus, in the New Testament and in the Old Testament, there is clear evidence of the existence of the one-room, split-level home such as we suggest for Luke 2:7.

Such one-room homes often hadthave "guest rooms" attached to the end or built on the roof for guests. What, then, can be said about the manger?

In such traditional homes, mangers are built into the floor of the raised terrace on which the family lives.

If the cow or donkey is hungry in the night it can stand and reach the feed on the floor of the upper family living space, often about four feet higher than the level for the animals.

This is the critical piece ofevidence that unlocks Luke 2:7. What is unknown to the Western reader is the fact that in the traditional Palestinian home, the.\ mangers are in the living room.

II 11 Now all the parts of the story fall into place. luke's text was originally written for a Palestinian reader who stans with the assumptions that mangers are in the living room of one-room homes and that guest rooms are attached to one-room homes and are used for guests.

With this in mind, the text provides the following.

The author records: "And she gave birth to firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger."

The reader instinctively asks, "Manger? Oh, they are in the main family room! Why not the guest room?"

The author instinctively anticipates the above question and replies, "Because there was no place for them in the guest room (kataluma)." , \ The reader concludes, "Ab, I see. So the guest room was full. Never mind; the family room is more appropriate anyway,"

Why it matters With these clarifications, all the cultural pieces of the Gospel story fall into place, and a special theological thrust em.erges from the story. Joseph finds shelter in a simple peasant home. This home has a guest room, but it is full. In the honored tradition of Middle Eastern hospitality, the host provides for his guests. He clears the one·room family living space for the couple to use.

The child is born and placed in a depression in the floor (manger) to keep him from harm. The shepherds are given a double sign. They will find the Babe wrapped, an ancient village custom, and placed in a manger. That is, he is in a simple home like theirs. No one will say to them, "Tradesmen to the back door, pleasel" In his ministry we know ofJesus that "the common people heard Him gladly." That same simple welcome is

CHRISTMAS

reflected in Bethlehem in the story of his birth.

If the story is seen in this light, the "mean old innkeeper" evaporates, along with his nonexistent inn.

"No room at the inn" will no longer be adequate for the Christmas sermon. The cold, drafty stable becomes a warm, cozy peasant home which the shepherds find fully adequate for they go home praising God for all that they had heard and seen (Luke 2:20). If they had found the family in a stable, they would have taken the family at once to their own homes!

So the inn and the innkeeper evaporate. Yet much is gained. The incarnation itself becomes more authentic.

Jesus was born in and into a simple peasant home as any other village boy. The shepherds, outcasts from their society, were given a sign indicating this simplicity. They thereby discover that this Messiah comes welcoming the poor and the marginalized.

Joseph emerges as a man fully able to arrange for his family. No estrangement is subtly affirmed between his

family and the family of Zechariah. No hard-heartedness is attributed to Bethlehem.

The wise men came "to the house" (Matt. 2:11) and no special pleading is necessary to explain the appearance of these "new" quarters.

The Word became flesh indeed. The birth ofJesus most likely took place in the same kind of natural setting into which every peasant is born-in a pleasant home.

And, after all, it is still possible to sing: Ox and ass before him bow, For he is in the manger now.

Christ is born to save, Christ is born to save.

Kenneth E. Bailey is an author, lecturer and scholar in Middle Eastern New Testament studies. He lives in New Wilmington, Penn. This articlefirst appeared in The Presbyterian Outlook and has also been reprinted in the MB Herald It has been reprinted here with permission of the Outlook

£yke 2 '!he cBirth ofJesus In those days Caesarfiugustus issued a decree that a census should be taken ofthe entire !toman world. ('!his was thefirst census that took place while Qyirinius was governor ofSyria.J find everyone went to his own town to register.

SoJoseph also went upfrom the town ofJVazareth in Galilee toJudea, to cBethlehem the town ofVavid, because he belonged to the house and line of Vavid.jle went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time camefor the baby to be born, and she gave birth to herfirstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

DECEMBER

2003

•

7

CHRiSTMAS

Ik 9'P oIleJM4 (!)W/, e~ ~ IIu4, HUUdIt. wd/, IJe UIIUcIuJ, IN, ~, ~ tUUJ, ~ ~ tUUJ, ~. eJ/f!M, tUuJeH, MfUUUUIJie IJ~ ~

IuJw. Uuu, ~ IJu" 94t 0/ 1e4M4 oJ e~.

By Jean Janzen

e

hristmas is a fragile time. Enduring as the "ChristMass" has been through 2,000 years, the holy days surrounding it have become holidays that carry emotion and hope with breakable intensity. We bake cookies and wipe tears at the same time. We find our days crowded with noise and glitz, with little time for inner preparation. We need the church to help us focus and strengthen this great celebration of the incarnation.

Our church, College Community Church of Clovis, Calif., has been blessed with pastors and leaders who have honored the advent season in our worship. This means that during the four weeks before Christmas Eve, we anticipate the coming of Christ with services that center around the Scriptures and hymns of expectation, repentance, wonder and silence. A large wreath hung from the church's ceiling holds the four candles that are lit one Sunday at a time, the light growing toward the great light of Christmas Eve. It is a quiet time. Visual images are added slowly through the four weeks and the jubilant carols are reserved for the final Sundays.

Through the years we have encouraged the congregation to participate in the church decorations in various ways. Sometimes we gather poinsettia, or make ornaments to share and to take home. One year we created various stars that were hung in a wonderful constellation. '!\vo years ago we were invited to take home a kit of small sheets of colored tissue and black construction paper to create a "stained glass" panel. Our theme for that Christmas was "Jesus, the light of the world."

People of all ages came back with framed designs of candles, stars, light bulbs, glowing roses, angels, mangers and crosses. '!\vo of our talented members carefully taped our paper pieces together, created and added a larger star and manger scene, reinforced the

8 •

THE

CHRISTIAN

LEADER

whole with a wood frame and hung it in the baptistry in time for Christmas Eve. It was breathtaking, and dUring the service the light grew brighter.

It was all of our fragile lives and hands joined and lifted in worship and celebration. And it was perishable.

The panel shone through Epiphany. But before it was folded and discarded-there was no way to save itwe took some photos. This could be a congregational Christmas card next year, one member suggested. And it was done. It needs a poem to go with it, someone suggested. And when that was written, we asked Larry Warkentin to set the poem to music which we sang together last advent.

The great event of Christ coming to be with us calls for worship which evokes wonder and humility. When we remember that it is God who is among us, our imaginations are transformed. And because we worship with our senses, the colors, smells, sounds and textures of our sanctuaries can lead us to the Child, the one whose "very breath is fire," because he is love.

jeanjanzen, ofFresno, Calif, is a poet. Her poem that accompanied the 2002 College Community Church Christmas card is printed on the backpage. Our thanks to College Community Church for sharing a photo of their "stainedglass" panelfor the cover ofthis magazine.

CHHISTMAS

e ~ elwJi~ IwJh i.H, the ~ Qea4C'In

By Thom Justice ne of the most meaningful family traditions in our household is celebrating advent, the four-week period before Christmas Day. I wish someone had shared this idea with us long ago. There's no right or wrong way of doing it; the idea is to set aside time each night to focus on Jesus Christ.

Here is how we have woven this tradition into our Christmas celebration. The advent season begins four Sundays before Christmas Day. Most years that is the Sunday following Thanksgiving. We make a simple wreath and surround it with five candles; one for each week of advent and the fifth for Christmas Eve. Each Sunday we light candles-one the first Sunday of advent, two candles the second Sunday, etc. We try to make our Sunday celebrations special by having an extended Christmas devotional reading, singing a song or two and allowing each child to pray. We purchased a book to help us, Christ in Christmas: A Family Advent Celebration byJames c. Dobson and others. This book includes devotional readings; other suggestions are to share special times when God intervened to answer prayer, favorite Christmas memories and reasons to be thankful.

On weeknights we often just light the number of candles for that week, read a few verses of Scripture, pray and shuttle the kids off to bed. Occasionally we have to do it with whoever is home. Other times we forget. But as

(!J

by Jose Elizondo

~

ne of the ways I celebrate the gift ofJesus at Christ-

mas is that I start to whistle more Christmas songs.

While I also whistle Christmas songs inJuly, I con:entrate on them more in the winter. I whistle early in :he morning, while I work and in the evening.

On a more serious note, I celebrate by working at )uilding community. I think that community is built by iharing not only material things but also joys and sor·ows. I have started a gathering of Hispanic pastors at :hristmastime. They come together to sing, eat, play :ames, exchange gifts, and of course to fellowship.

On a personal basis, Christmas to me is a feeling of oy, of gratitude for Christ's love for me and the need to hare that love and joy with others. I don't do too much

much as possible we try to weave it into the rhythm and routine of Christmas.

Our advent celebrations rarely go perfectly, but it has always been a great blessing to us as we focus on Jesus Christ.

1bomjustice is the pastor ofMillard Bible Church in Omaha, Neb. He and his wife Karen are the parents ofKarissa (age 12), Hannah (9), Rebekah (7),josiah (3) and Micah (1).

Advent Resources A Simple Christmas by Alice Chapin, Herald Pr...

Celebnltlnl the Chrlatltm Year by Martha ZImmerman, Bethany Houle PubIIshenI Chtlst In Ctulstmas: A Family Advent CeIebnJtkm by James C. Dobson Family Devotions 101 the Advent Beason by James L &v_, TyndaIe House PubI......., Inc.

Advent Scriptures There are many SCripture passages appropriate for edvent l88IOII. Thorn Justice offers the outline below as one option.

1st Week of Advent SCripture readings: Sun.-lsa. 9:2·6; Mon.-Gen. 1:26-31; Tues.-Gen. 3:1·24; Wed.-Gen. 15; Thurs.-Deut. 18:15-19; Fri.-lsa. 7:1Q.14; sat.-1sa. 11:1·5 2nd Week of Advent SCripture readings: Sun.-Matt. 1:18-25; Mon.-1sa. 19:19-25; Tues.-1sa. 40:9-11; Wed.-lsa. 42:1-4; Thurs.-lsa. 49:1·7; Fri.-lsa. 53:1-12; sat.-1sa. 61:1·3 3rd Week of Advent SCripture readings: SUn.-Luke 2:8-20; Mon.-Jer. 23:5-6; Tues.-Mic. 5:2; Wed.Zech. 9:9-10; Thurs.-Mal. 3:1; Fri.-luke 1:1·25; sat.-luke 1:26-38 4th Week of Advent SCripture readings: Sun.-Matt. 2:1·12; Mon.-Luke 1:39-56; Tues.-luke 1:57-80; Wed.-Luke 2:2i·38; Thurs.-Col.l:15-23; Fri.-Rev. 5:1·14; Sat.-Rev. 21:1-7 Christmas Eve SCripture reading: Luke 1:67-69

out of the ordinary because I believe that the Christmas spirit should be felt throughout the year. Our giving to the less fortunate should not be left just to the holiday season. We are his hands, his feet and his voice. There are hurting people who need to know the true joy of Christmas. The tinsel, the gift-wrapping and the shopping all detract from the real joy.

On Christmas Eve our family goes to a church Christmas play or service, and after church our family then has our gathering. We have tamales and other traditional goodies and exchange one gift. Our focus is not on giving or receiving gifts but on togetherness.

jose Elizondo is the Pacific District Conference associate district minister.

DECEMBER

2003

•

9

CHRiSTMAS

e ~ tk /JiIJJ"

0/ elvwi G4 a. ~

By Dave Prince

111<"1 is the most wonderful time of the year" proclaims

I a popular Christmas song, and rightly so. Celebrat-

ing the gift ofJesus Christ's birth should be the most wonderful time of the year. Unfortunately, amidst the busyness, amidst the bombardment of a secularized and commercialized portrayal of Christmas, it is all too easy for me to lose my focus on what Christmas is all about and to fall into a holiday routine that has lost its wonder and freshness. I have found that family tradition and vibrant relationship help me maintain focus and freshness.

Our family traditions-trimming the tree, breaking out the Christmas music, hanging the stockings, baking Christmas treats to share with friends, having our own family Christmas Eve service, opening gifts on Christmas morning and having our family Christmas dinner-are all designed to bring us together, slow us down and focus our thoughts on God's greatest gift to us. Over the years we have tried different activities, some we have continued and some we have not. What is most important is that we as a family make time to celebrate God's love for us as demonstrated in Jesus Christ.

While family Christmas traditions help me focus, these traditions by themselves can become routine and stale. The freshness in Christmas comes from my relationship with the one whose birthday we are celebrating, 10 • THE CHRISTIAN

LEADER

Jesus Christ. God made us for relationship. Christmas is all about God pursuing us, about God giving the best he h~d to.bring us back into a personal loving relationship With hun. How can a personal, growing relationship with the Lord God Almighty, Creator, Counselor, King of Kings, Comforter, Savior ever be routine and stale?

Celebrating my wife's or children's birthday is not about the cake, the candles or the presents. It is about celebrating and sharing another year of growth, challenges, love and relationship with each other. Likewise, celebrating Christ's birth for me is not about the external trappings, but about celebrating and sharing another year of growth, challenges, love and relationship with my Savior and Lord.

Christmas-it "'tis the most wonderful time of the year." To ensure that this will be the case in my life, I begin in early December with a day or two of reflection on the state of my relationship with God, making sure it's vibrant and growing. I also try to take time daily during the holidays to sit in wonder and thankfulness before God. Then I can heartily enjoy all the Christmas activities and family traditions. Then I am prepared to celebrate and to help my family and church celebrate Christmas with freshness and focus.

Dave Prince and his wife Linda along with their two sons live in Harvey, N.D" where he is the pastor ofHarvey MB Church.

(: ~I R I S 'I' \1 A S

By Betty Fergason liVed in Guatemala until the age of 14, My bestremembered Christmases took place in the small town of Panajachel, near the shores of Lake Atitlan.

This was our home during my earliest years, and we were also there for my last Christmas before coming to the u.s for high school the next month.

Our family Christmas celebrations those first years in Panajachel involved our church activities, As we grew old enough, my six brothers and sisters and I participated in the special programs by the children and young people in Panajachel's little Indian church. For special occasions the entire church floor would be covered with pine needles, but there were few other decorations. Church buildings in larger towns had electricity and special flowers or wreaths. In those years our little church had only one or two electric lights for the whole room, and that was only because it was a room also used by the Bible institute.

The last year I was in Panajachel I helped the teenagers put on a program, part of which was billed as ~ Christmas "play." The characters consisted of]oseph and Mary, the innkeeper and his wife and others. We had a casting problem at first, as none of the girls wanted to be in a position as compromising as that of the innkeeper's wife. So that role was assigned to me. The play was unlike any I had been in or seen. There were no scenery, props or curtains. We all trooped in, stood in a row across the bare stage and recited our parts without moving out of place. But the entire program was well received, our audience probably having never before seen a play anyway. They had heard the story, so were able to envision the action as we used to do while listening to the radio.

Our group had been invited to go to an even smaller town to present our program the next evening. Fortunately no play was expected, just our music. For the musical part of the program, Mom, a couple of others and I were to teach the group to sing in parts. We had a hard time with that because no one could read music.

Finally, after much rehearsal, that part of the program was as ready as it could be.

I don't know the distance, but it seemed a long walk that afternoon. We were accompanied by Mom and one or two other adults as we walked mostly single me along il path that led us up the mountain, through patches of :orn and past little thatch-roofed adobe houses with ,arking dogs, chickens and other domestic animals in the rards. As we jumped over ditches and walked around big

j

rocks and fallen trees, we each carried our songbooks as well as other paraphernalia. A man had gone before us carrying our folding foot-pumped organ on his back.

We arrived at a small, one-room church with pine needles carpeting the floor. I don't think there were any windows. Candles and a kerosene lantern lit the dusky little room and the pews were backless benches. When I think of this evening I can still smell the spicy aroma of the pine needles and the smell of candles and kerosene.

And I can almost hear the rustling and whispers as our audience excitedly settled into their seats.

This small congregation knew songs and choruses by memory, but they were not used to having instrumental music. They really appreciated our program of mostly Christmas hymns, simple as it was. I played the little black organ, pumping the pedals and reading the music by the light of the kerosene lamp. They thought "Silent Night" was so beautiful. We sang it clear through four times, in between their other requests.

When the program was over, everyone was invited to share tamales the women had prepared. The soft masa dough was folded around succulent pieces of meat, spices and gravy; and then wrapped in banana leaves.

These little bundles, about four by six inches and maybe two inches thick, had been steaming for much of the day in large clay pots over outside fires. The wonderful aromas drew us out to where our new friends graciously served us, giving each person a tamale still wrapped in the large, flat leaves. We unfolded them and enjoyed our Christmas treat. With a cup of steaming black coffee, what could be better?

When the party was over it was time to say goodbye and start for home. It was now long past dark and we couldn't return by the crooked, uneven path by which we had arrived. So we walked back to Panajachel by the light of a few flashlights, going by the longer dirt road that wound its way leisurely down the mountain. The sky was clear, with a million stars. We joked, laughed and sang our way toward our little town down by the lake. We were full of delicious tamales and coffee. We were pleased to have made others happy with our program.

This is the last Christmas of my childhood, but 60 years later it is still fresh in my memory.

Betty Fergason and her husband Claude have been members ofVinewood Church in Ladi, Calif, for about 40 years. Her parents were missionaries with Central American Mission, which is headquartered in Dallas, Texas.

DECEMBER

2003

•

11

CHRISTNIAS

Lowell Entz

hey come and go-some 50,000 inmates, men and women-every year at the Federal Transfer Center, a federal prison. As a team of two chaplains, we "tag team" our time to provide 365 days of praying for them, crying with them, setting the captives "free" or providing them a conscience long forgotten.

But for a moment on Christmas Eve, time stands still. The "nonessential" staff has gone home. The lines for meals, medications and laundry are done for the day.

Intercoms and two-way radios fall silent.

And the transformation begins-the cement floors become sacred ground. The many lost souls look for a glimmer of hope; the faithful few fall to a silent reverence. We gather our candles, guitar, song sheet, Bibles and boxes of tissues. To each pod we offer a brief celebration of God coming to us. But we don't bring Jesus to them-he is already here. "1 was in prison, andyou

1

By Albina Nesterenko rom as early as I can remember the holiday of Christmas has always had special meaning in my life. It's not only about getting something from your friends and family, but also experiencing what great pleasure it brings to give. In a way, my family is just like any other family, but on the other hand every family has a special touch of their own way as they celebrate Christmas.

About a month before Christmas all of us write a list of what we Want as a gift. 1\vo weeks before the celebration of Christ's birth, we put up a Christmas tree. It's our own way of revealing the Christmas spirit in the house. For us the

dJ.

12 •

THE

CHRISTIAN

LEADER

came to visit me" (Matt. 25:36).

So we pray-they cry. We retell the old, old storythey ache for their far-away families. Singing carols in Spanish and English, we each light a candle and ponder the hope that Jesus brings. "Silent night, holy night...."

We thank God for his greatest gift, then we go back to our cells-but not alone. Jesus is already there. For the inmate in his small, lonely cell. For the chaplain, in my small, lonely Honda on the way "home." And it's my tum to cry on Christmas Eve, because Jesus met me there. And it's my turn to ache on Christmas Eve, for my family, wondering how they fared in my absence on this holy night.

But Jesus was there too. And that is the greatest gift.

Lowell Entz is a chaplain at the Federal Transfer Center in Oklahoma City. He and his Wife Sue have two children and are members ofMemorial Road MB Church in Edmond, Okla.

tree brings the attitude of light and color to the rooms.

The gifts are bought and wrapped by everyone in secret from all the rest of the family members. Then begins the countdown towards Christmas Day. Christmas Eve is the night when all of us gather by the Christmas tree as a family and first of all thank God for the wonderful way that he demonstrated his awesome love for us. The nativity scene by the tree paints a clear pictUre Qf what it must have been like 2,000 years ago when Jesus came to this earth as the Son of Man. After a prayer of gratitude, the whole family, starting from youngest to oldest, opens their gifts. 1b make the whole process more enjoyable, we all have to guess what might be in the package before we open it. Whatever it is, it shows that you are cared for and loved.

Personally for me, Christmas is a time when I am reminded again and again how merciful God was to give the priceless gift ofJesus to our world. Sometimes I can't help but wonder, "What would life be like if it was.n't for Jesus?"

Albina Nesterenko lives with herfamily in Seattle, Wash. They areformer refugees from Russia.

C H R 1ST .\1 A S

by Michael J • Paquette

Xativity scenes countries Nativity scenes from various and time periods t.. (~ it rrlC) r·(~ tJ.rlCIJJ .

Just th.£3

show how people see Jesus and the world he came to save.

hristmas story

THHOENE MIGHT BE THE RUIN OF AN OLD CASTLE or an an~temPI4' Sometimes it's a village, bustling with activo

ity. It uta J>e a)Sllve, or a rich landscape of mountains and rivers and,stars. At other times, it's a simple barn.

NQ matter how it's depicted, the nativity remains the cen~ symbol of the Christmas season. But the type of creC~1 an~ th.e figures represented in it, tells more than just w.e Cnt!lltmas story. These icons have much to say about the spirit, psychology and cultures in which they were created.

Nativity sets first became popular among 17th century European priests who used them as missionary tools to tell the story of Christmas to potential converts in such far· tlung places as South America, Africa and Asia, according to fohann G. Roten, a scholar at the University of Dayton. And in post.Reformation Europe, Roten says, Catholic priests Jsed nativity figures to "confirm and reaffirm the faith of :heir own people."

Like stained·glass windows, Nativity sets were considered

the "Bible of the poor," says Roten, who is director of the Marian Ubrary·lnternational Marian Research Institute. "For

people who were not able to read, you had to visualize these things for them."

But as time went on, in the Old World and the new, nativity scenes also found favor in homes and village squares. And the setting artists chose to tell the Christmas story reflected the ways in which European Christians interpreted the events surrounding the birth ofJesus.

By the 18th century, three centers of creche culture emerged in Europe-Naples, Italy; Provence, France; and southern Germany and Austria. And the nativity scenes of each region were rich in unique religious symbolism.

Italian creches, for example, usually place Joseph, Mary and the Christ child among the ruins of an ancient temple or an old castle. "It was a historical statement," says Roten, who is also a professor of theological anthropology. "The old culture has been destroyed and a new history is origi· nating."

DEC E M B E R

2 0 0 3

•

13

CHHIST:vlAS

Also rich in symbolism are the types of animals found at the manger. Italian creches, like most, always include a donkey and an ox.

"The donkey usually has two lines in the fonn of a cross on its back," says Roten.

"The cross means that the donkey has been baptized. Why? As an animal, the donkey represents the pagans present at the manger. And what is pagan can become Christian through the birth of Christ.

"The ox was complementary to the donkey," he adds.

"The ox represented the Jewish people." In ancient Judaism, Roten notes, the ox was commonly used as a sacrificial offering to God. In Christian theology, the death of Jesus on the cross represents the ultimate sacrifice for all humankind.

Early French nativity scenes generally place the holy family atop a hill, surrounded by the entire village. This signifies that the birth ofJesus affects the "entire community, the mayor, the pastor, the policeman, the thief and the lady who sells fish," Roten says. "The idea is that the entire village is being drawn into this wonderful event."

But to Roten, the most fascinating figure in French creches is the Ravi, or "exalted one," who is depicted on his knees with his anns reaching heavenward. "He is the fool of the village," says Roten, "the dumb kid who doesn't know what's going on. But it takes someone like him to understand the miraculous event that's occurred."

Gennans and Austrians usually set the birth ofJesus within a sweeping natural landscape, complete with a stardotted sky, mountains and rivers, typical of most art from the Baroque period.

"Baroque art was a reflection of heaven on Earth," says Roten, a native of Switzerland. "In everything you did and showed, there was some kind of presence of the

A prayer for advent JESUS, WE LOVE YOU because you first loved us. We are reminded again this advent season that your coming as a dependent baby to live among us in this sinful and needy world was and is a profound expression ofyour love for us. We praise you, Emmanuel, for being a God who is with us. Thank you for being a God who finds pleasure in having an intimate

14 •

THE

CHRISTIAN

relationship with us. Thank you too for being a God who accepts us as we are, and then through patient grace transforms us into representations ofwho you are.

Come to us this advent sea· son in the ways that fulfill your purposes in us. Come to our world, come to our church fami· ly and come to us individually.

Guard us from giving in to pre· conceived ideas about your revLEADER

divine...When you translate these things into creche cuiture...they suggest the idea of a far-reaching horizon, that this event has far.reaching importance and influence."

More than any other creche tradition, says Roten, the Gennans and Austrians included figures with a "certain psychological note" that embody deep symbolic value.

One such example is the two identical figures-twins, perhaps-walking toward the creche. They represent humankind's selfish, introverted nature, he says.

"But you see more than just yourself when you see the manger. You discover a new dimension to your own being," Roten says. "You are no longer self-contained and only preoccupied with yourself" The earliest Nativity scenes were made of wood and clay. But as the custom spread around the globe, people began to create creches from materials that were integral to their culture.

Today, for example, Christians in France and Ecuador make nativity sets from brightly colored bread dough. Fashioning figures from gingerbread is a tradition in the Czech Republic. Birchwood is often used in Poland. In Alaska, some native tribes carve nativity figures from walrus tusks; some Africans use animal bones and ivory to tell the 2,000year-old Christmas story.

In Peru, terra cotta is the favored medium. In Spain, a whimsical, homespun version of the Nativity uses a kettle to create a cave-like structure to shelterJesus, Mary and Joseph. On the kettle's lid, the three kings, camels in tow; proceed on their journey to the Christ child.

But regardless of the material and price, in Roten's view, Christmas creches possess a spiritual value that can be appreciated throughout the year.

"All of these elements try to communicate one basic truth," he says. 'We can reach out to God because he reached out to us in the first place."

Michael] Paquette is a writerfor Religion News Service.

This article, copyright 2003, is used by permission.

elations. Give us the desire and courage to say no to those things that distract us from see· ing you in these weeks that are so easily filled with pleasure and pressures. Open our ears and eyes to see Emmanuel with us.

We pray for those who don't reel that you would want to come to them. May they find your love, power and hope in the midst of hurt, regret, guilt or lack ofunderstanding. We recognize, Lord, that there are those

who will experience your presence with them-through us and our love for them-so give us hearts that are willing to give our time, compassion and selves for others as you gave yourself for us.

We love you. Teach us more of what it means to live the adventure of faith by pleasing you, coming to you, believing in you and seeking you. Amen. By Nadine Friesen, Leader edi· torial assistant.

From relief sales to missions overseas, Anabaptists have always woven charitable giving into the fabric of their faith. MMA is pleased to be part of this tradition.

Through the MMA Sharing Fund, millions of your dollars have been distributed to churches and others in need. Mennonite Foundation helps your charitable giving intentions accomplish the greatest amount of good. MMA's Life Planning Seminars show you how to organize your time and talent for God's use.

Giving, and helping others give, are important pieces in MMA's stewardship quilt. To find out all the ways MMA can help you share your gifts ... in the light of your faith ... call (BOO) 348-7468.

IIInI -

r,

MMA@

Stewardship Solutions

PH'UP SIDE BY

PHILIP

WIEBE

Signs in the sky ,

..,

,

..., ,

,.

~

"'A'

,_.,

•

'y~.

_

_

,y

,

,.

~ God uses many avenues to guide and encourage hisfollowers-including tbe sky ONE OF THE CHARMING STORIES recounted at Christmastime involves the star in the sky signifying Jesus' birth, and the Magi from the east who followed the star to find and worship the newborn Lord. At least it's charming in the way we depict it year after year, with the big cardboard star hanging above the stage and the crowned, bath-robed children carrying glittery gold boxes toward the manger.

Looking at it more closely, though, there are elements of this story that are quite unusual. It is said that those Magi, for example, were astrologers and diviners, who scanned the skies for signs and prophetic visions. Sounds a bit shady to me. Yet Matthew gave them significant play in his gospel. In fact, these magicians come off looking wiser and more spiritually insightful than Israel's own leadership, who were supposed to be the big experts on the ways of God. Another puzzling thing: Why was a star showing the way to Jesus in the first place? We'd have a tough time with that one. The sky today is not a place to see signs and wonders, but a region toward which to point scientific instruments and come up with logical data. It's interesting how we Christians so comfortably accept the story of that "yonder star." Yet if confronted with such a reality today, how many would truly believe? I shudder to think about it.

With a few exceptions, my church background hasn't been particularly amenable to seeing signs, wonders and miracles. I can understand why. These have often been viewed as venues for hucksters and charlatans. But a few highprofile frauds shouldn't cause us to doubt God's miraculous works in the world. There is now a global movement

16 • THE CHRISTIAN

to reclaim the "power" ministries of Jesus, through healings, prophecies, dreams and visions. I say praise the Lord for that. Such activities merely reflect the ministry ofJesus and his disciples, and the New Testament church.

My early church experience leaned toward the stoic, but as a teen I was exposed to freer, more powerful expressions of spirituality. This didn't completely knock me from my logical nature, but it did affect my outlook. So much so, I began seeing signs in the sky.

Not star of Bethlehem types of signs, exactly. But for some reason the skies started opening up to me about God. And God seemed to use the heavens to communicate specific messages. Perhaps this is starting to sound weird, but don't be alarmed. I think my teen exposure to the charismatic experience made me more open to God speaking and working in a variety of ways. For the believer, that shouldn't be weird at all.

There was the time, for instance, I attended summer camp as a spiritually seeking youth. God got right in my face one night. Our cabin had hiked off to sleep in a mountaintop clearing, and as darkness fell, the stars began to dazzle me. The Milky Way became a bright streak across the sky. I'd never seen anything like that. Lying awake for a long time, God impressed me with his power and presence, both in the world and in my life. Christianity had been sort of a theoretical exercise for me until then; after that I began to build a relationship with a real, personal God. Much later, after I was married and had kids, another sky-sign spoke to a need in my life. During a time of career stress, I had been feeling overburdened with work while being under-supplied

LEADER

with financial means. For months I had been praying to God for gUidance. Then while driving one day, a striking bit of scenery came into view. Fog shrouded the lower slopes of one of our high Northwest mountains, while the summit was clearly visible. Immediately I became aware of an encouragement, which I believe was Spirit led. While everything seemed foggy on my career path at the moment, things would soon become clear. God would lead to a higher, brighter place. I drove on from there with a sense of peace, and in fact that vision did eventually become reality.

Just a few weeks ago, I saw my most recent sign in the sky. Jogging in my neighborhood on a moonlit night, I became aware of an intriguing cloud formation to the west. It looked exactly like the bottom of a giant foot. With a smile, I thought, "God stepping on the world."

But qUickly my mood turned pensive.

What if this was true? Didn't this evil generation deserve to be crushed under God's foot? "No," God seemed to answer, "I'm just stepping down to be with you.

So follow me." Given the anxiety and discouragement I'd been feeling about some faith issues at the time, it was a message I really needed.

Over the years, I think my modest experiences with signs in the sky have helped guide and encourage me at appropriate times. They've also helped me see the gospel account of the Magi as more than just a warm-hearted Christmas story. For some reason God used the stars to speak to these men. Rather than passing it off or explaining it away, they courageously followed through with costly, heartfelt worship.•

IN(jLlHLNC MI NDS BY

MARVIN

HEIN

Questions about faith & life ~~,!~~s~~~~i~~_~~~~.?~ai~j;eekingbasicjustiC; in th;H~ly-Land ~i::~:~t~~~~:~:i:e:n~~~.

Q

isters in the Israeli/Arab cri· sis, they always side with the Arabs. Does MCC have ministries to the Jews as well? (California)

--_.-------.--.--.--._.-. -.----..----~~-~~ grO~~~ th~-de~;~;:tiCally

Th

b

e Ara Iisraeli issue I-S no si-mple

I understand the concern stated above and may know what motivates it in most instances. Many Mennonite Brethren are "dispensationalists" in theology and this calls for Israel to regroup in the Holy Land because they are God's chosen people. Whi,le my own views may not coincide with what is IS probably a majority view among us, I respect the concern for Jews and the many promises in the Bible concerning them.

In a recent meeting I attended, MCC worker Ed Nyce, who since 1999 has worked in Bethlehem striving for peace 1948 when Israel was established. and justice among both Israelis and Because many Palestinian villages were Palestinians, reported on MCC's efforts destroyed and 750,000 Palestinians in the Holy Land. I posed our reader's became refugees, Bronstein and his colquestion to him and will share someleagues feel it is necessary for Israelis to thing of Nyce's response. acknowledge these facts, even for the During the past year, MCC has healing of their own souls. The associabecome involved in The Zochrot Associa. tion uses a variety of means to bring this tion. The translation of the Hebrew word awareness to Jews. . zochrot is related to "remembering."

MCC also gives a grant to the Israeli Eytan Bronstein, the association's direcCommittee Against House Demolitions. tor and an Israeli Jew; has been associatThe work ofthis group includes rebuilded with Neve Shalom-Wahates Salam. ing; with Israelis, Palestinians and interThis is an intentional community inside nationals, houses that have been demolIsrael composed ofJews and minority ished by Israeli authorities. These are Israeli citizens of Palestinian descent. houses outside the recognized borders of Bronstein feels strongly that in order for Israel-in the West Bank, East Jerusalem there to be any peace between the two and the Gaza Strip. Some readers, of sides, his fellow Israelis need to learn course, will contend that all of this land and care about the events in and around belongs to the Israelis, but MCC is work-

A

matter. The best that can be done is not enough, and anything that -' done wiII be crl-tl-_

_ db

clze

y some. .

';;~~;"~'i~;;;i~~"~b~~;"~"~~bl;';~;~~;:"d~~;~~:"~;;;';;;:~;';li;;;:"~;'~;h;;"~P;~;~~"'" al issue. E·mall Marvin at mheinl@fresno.edu or sendyour question to "Inquiring Minds, "c/o Marvin Rein, 3036 East Magill Avenue, Fresno, C4 93710.

with day-to-day situations. ICARD provides educational tours for both Israelis and Uiternationals of the settlement enterprise, and of houses and/or being rebuilt.

Theydestroyed also provide printed and website materials on related issues.

Since the late 1980s, MCC has had a relationship with The Rapprochement Center, which has both Israeli and Palestinian chapters. For 11 years these two groups held dialogue sessions. MCC supported this work through grants, attendance at some of their meetings and taking part in other activities. There are cur· rently no dialogues taking place because of restrictions on visiting enacted by the Israeli government. It is literally next to impossible for Israelis and West Bank Palestinians to meet. Israeli law does not permit its citizens to enter Palestinian populated areas. Checkpoints and the wall now being constructed along the West Bank, both of which are often deep within the West. Bank rather than on the border, keep Palestinians from meeting with Israelis. It has been said that it is easier for such meetings to take place in Europe than in Palestine or Israel.

MCC continues to seek ways that will make it possible to look at issues of basic justice. This is a way to do what Jesus commanded when he was asked "What is the greatest commandment?'"

Jesus' answer was, "Love the Lord God with all your heart and love your neigh. bor as yourself On these two hang all the Torah and the prophets" (Mk. 12:29-31).

This is MCC's goal.

The Arab /Israeli issue is no simple matter. The best that can be done is not enough, and anything that is done will be criticized by some.•

DEC E M B E R

2 003

•

17

ON THE JOlRNEY BY

ROSE

BUSCHMAN

Ukraine vacation leads to ministry ~ Performance ofHandel's Messiah touches lives for eternity v_.. ._.. __ __,.. _ _.. .

........__ -

~

~_-~.

V¥

...

. . . . . ._ _

IT STARTED INNOCENTLY ENOUGH. one the choir presented a number of clasgrew in numbers. As they sang other classiRoger and Diane McMurrin met with sical pieces and even a rousing rendition. cal religious music, Roger explained what of ''When the Saints Go Marching In.'' The the biblical texts meant. Choir members their friends George and Toni McCamsecond concert was Handel's Messiah. then asked for Bible studies th~ were held mon at a restaurant in Orlando, Fla. This was a combined performance with at Roger and Diane's apartment.

George had recently resigned from his Roger's choir and the Kiev Philharmonic pastorate and had spent the last three At. one point they were able to promonths in Kiev, Ukraine, where he started Orchestra. The afternoon the orchestra cure 150 Ukrainian Bibles that were dismet for their first practice was memorable. tributed to each choir member. They were a church and a humanitarian aid project.

The concertmaster had tears in his eyes "not prepared for the level ofexcitement Roger and Diane were longtime church when they played the HallelUjah Chorus musicians, well respected for their musithe musicians displayed. It was as if we cal abilities. It was just a lunch date with for the first time. They had never even had given them new cars," they write.

Choir members accepted Christ. The friends. However there are no coinciheard this music before, let alone played it. As their five·hour rehearsal ended, the dences with God. He had a very special Bible studies grew and soon the musicians musicians asked if they could practice for askedtoformachurchforre~worsrup plan for all four of them. George shared another hour "to perfect this music." his vision for Kiev and invited Roger and services. With George's help a local pastor The concert was held in an old cathe- was found and a church begun.

Diane to come there for their upcoming dral to a packed house. The printed proRoger and Diane followed Jesus' vacation. command, '2\s the Father hath sent me, so ''The finest musicians in the world are gram contained the biblical text of the Messiah in Ukrainian and was distributed send I you" Oohn 20:21). They used their there. The Ukrainian people love classical music. Perhaps you could give a concert- to all concert attendees. interest in classical religious music to Diane writes, "That night something maybe Handel's Messiah. No one has ever present the message of Christ to profesextraordinarily profound happened. The sional musicians in Kiev and the rest is performed it there before-at least not history. Now there is a vibrant, growing during the past 70 years ofCommunism. It message of the Messiah was the message was forbidden." for Ukraine....Though this had been the church there. birthplace ofChristianity for all of Eastern It was no coincidence that I came What a crazy idea, Roger thought. A Europe, its churches had been burned, its across their story. I was having a casual vacation in the Ukraine? Planning a con· priests murdered and its people conversation with the wife of a roard cert? Where was the Ukraine? Where oppressed...The tyranny of Communism would they live? How would they get the member during a break at a recent meet· was over. God had brought this to pass for ing we had. Somehow we got onto the musicians? One question led to another his glory." topic of our parents and I mentioned that and before they knew it, Roger and Diane Even years later a musician who was were making plans to visit a country about my mother, as a young girl, had migrated there told Diane, "That evening I was which they knew nothing. to Canada from the Ukraine. Sue immediseated in the audience and all I could feel ately started to tell me about a book she George helped with getting them a was light. I knew I had to be near that place to live and recruiting musicians. had of some musicians who went to the light."

Advertisements were placed in the local Ukraine and started a music ministry Before they left the Ukraine, Roger newspaper and musicians came for audio there. I expressed an interest in reading and Diane promised the musicians that the book and at the next board meeting tions. They began with 35 singers and a pianist. Rehearsals were held four 'nights a they would be back the following summer her husband handed me a copy of Diane week Each musician was paid one dollar for some more concerts. However, it soon McMurrin's book, The Splendor ofHis for each rehearsal attended. Diane took became~parem~roth~th~th~God Music (WmePress Publishing, 1998). It is a was calling them to the Ukraine for more fascinating account of how God answered pictures of the musicians so they could learn their names. However, she writes than a summer vacation. So they put their their prayers,.provided for their needs and .helped them work through the adversities . that it soon became "difficult to identify house on the market, resigned their posi· the singers because their countenances tions as church musicians and made plans they faced. to move there. were changing." That was the effect the .

After I read the book the Lord laid it music had on them!

They continued to have rehearsals on my heart to share their story with you.

They held two concerts. In the first with the professional musicians. The choir That's no coincidence either!.

18 • THE CHRISTIAN

LEADER

CIILCK's CO({\EH U.S.

BY CHUCK BULLER CONFERENCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

I've changed my mindl ..

.... ...

_.-

~ Why the new MBMSIfunding model is one we should support I RECENTLY SAW ASIGN ATTACHED to a tip jar at a coffee shop that said: "If you are afraid ofchange, leave it here." For all the books that have been written about change, the fact is most people over the age of 40 really don't like it much. (I'm 47, so I know of what I speak!) And most pe0ple under the age of 40 say they love change because generally they want to change things that irritate others rather than themselves.

Take for example the great worship debates of the 20th century. You knoW; the ones we used to say were about hymns vs. choruses, until choruses became an archaic term for contemporary music. So we had to change the debate to the one about contemporary vs. traditional worship until contemporary became an archaic term for (whatever the new term is) and traditional became a confusing term encompassing everything from Bill Gaither to Greek orthodoxy. I think you see where this change argument takes us-in circles!

Whether we like it or not, we are changing all the time. In fact, the Bible suggests that change is the one requirement for being a Christian. The word repentance (see Acts 2:38 for Simon Peter's 1\vo Spiritual Laws) means among other things "to change one's mind." I suspect God did not intend that we only do that once in life at the point ofour conversion. And generally, we don't pursue change as much as we are forced in difficult circumstances to consider it as one of several options.

And so, I am announcing in this column that as an act of honest reflection, spiritual growth and stubborn pragmatism, I have changed my mind! By now you must be wondering where this is going. Actually, I have changed my mind about many things in life, but today only one of those things bears mention in this

column. meant-but they were ours and it's how Let me back up with where I started we did mission. before I changed my mind. About six The reality is and was that the "old months ago I heard for the first time that funding formula" of MBMSI had changed MBMS International, the mission agency numerous times in the 103-year history of for North American Mennonite Brethren our mission, and had in fact become so churches, was changing their funding forcomplex that many of our denominationmula to something called "Relationship alleaders failed to grasp its real applicaBased Funding." In essence, as I undertion. stood it at that time, it would tum every So, with what I now consider couraMBMSI Missionary into a fundraiser. geous and visionary leadership, the My response was characteristic of peo- MBMSI Board ofDireetors made a deciple who resist change. I said: sion this fall to present to our convention 1. How can that be? this summer a model offunding that is 2. Whose idea was this? simple to explain and apply. In essence 3. We've never done it that way churches will be invited to send 25 perbefore! cent oftheir missions giving to the general 4. They're going to "kill the goose that budget of MBMSI and 75 percent towards laid the golden egg!" specific MBMSI missionaries and projects.

5. Etc. Etc. Etc. The beauty ofthis arrangement is that it After careful reflection I realized I had will require four to six congregations to heard every one of these responses to support a foreign missionary. Aclear relasome of my better ideas when I was a pastionship between missionary, project and tor. So, it was time to repent. Really! I congregation will be established. When decided to do what people do who missionaries come home every three years embrace change. I got more information they will develop already existing relationbefore forming any more opinions. This ships with these churches, instead of trycan be dangerous. It can lead to change! ing to visit every church that needs a misSecond, I decided to evaluate the facts sionary speaker. In so many ways, this conof the new idea instead of the motives of cept needs to be duplicated by every those who were proposing it. An absolute agency ofour denomination for our overdeal breaker for those who resist change. all health in the 21st century. But that's Painfully, I had to acknowledge that another column. our mission board was taking us in a direcBy this summer, when we meet in tion that fit the future better than the past. convention, the fine-tuning and details of In the past we took pride in the fact that this plan will be ready for public presentaour missionaries were "full-salaried," not tion. In the meantime, I thought I would "para-church" workers. We felt good that give some ofyou a head start at the change when out missionaries were on "furlough" process and tell you why I am on board they didn't have to worry about raising with this new model. If you want more funds. We even delighted in the decade of information take the time to call Darren the 19905 that we had given our churches Duerksen, Mike )\Jtzy, or Harold Ens of the "Core Budget," 'Moption Option" and our mission agency.

"Core Plus" choices. And some of us who As I get older, I find that change still were pastors in that decade couldn't have appeals to me. But like so many things in told you what those terms actually life, it just takes a little longer!.

DEC E M B E R

2 0 0 3

•

19

BODY LIFE

Roland and Lois Reimer refled on years of duo ministry ••••

•

ow

.

~ Reimer retires from post as SDC minister after 13 years of service _._. ..... _.. ,.... . .. _.__._--_ .........._._._--_._----_._--- -------_ .. ~

,,.........

,

.~-

....

-.~.",.-_

-~--_

n the road again," "circuit riders," "lover of meetings," "alliteration specialist," "duo ministry" and "models of dedication to the Mennonite Brethren church and conference ministries" are all descriptions that fit the 40plus ministry years of Roland and Lois Reimer, of Wichita, Kan. After traveling 350,000 miles and serving as a pastor to pastors, Roland Reimer will retire from the role of Southern District Conference district minister at the end of this month.

'0 can

The call, or as the Reimers describe it, the "tug that didn't go away" was a growing awareness that the couple was headed for ministry. Affirmations from the Buhler (Kan.) MB Church, a praying aunt and an offer to buy their home led them back to Tabor in 1959, and eventually to MB Biblical Seminary and Fuller Theological Seminary where Reimer earned a doctor of ministry degree. Apprentice experiences at Hillsboro (Kan.) MB Church, an Armenian Presbyterian congregation and Butler MB Church in Fresno, Calif., offered the couple their beginning experience. Pastoral ministry followed in MB congregations in Topeka and Wichita, Kan., and Denver, Colo., and teaching and counseling at Friends University, Wichita. Marriage enrichment and ministry to fragmented families was a key emphasis during those years.

Reimer began serving full time as the SDC minister in 1990. Already involved in conference ministries, the fit was a good one affinned by pastors and churches. The couple's ministry emphasis shifted at that time from family issues to leadership development and being a resource for pas-

20 •

THE

CHRISTIAN

tors and churches.

Comparisons When ~ked to compare pastoring pastors to pastoring a local congregation, the Reimers identify one of the main differences as the differences in congregational and conference schedules.

In light of Reimer's life-long passion and commitment to relationships, he worked at structuring the SDC into five regions, with pastors from each region meeting monthly or at least several times a year for sharing, education and interaction about church and conference ministry

LEADER

issues.

These contacts, along with site visits made by the Reimers, enabled them to keep in touch with their pastoral families.

"We tried to be a safe place for pastors," says Lois. Roland describes district minister work as "a backup and support system rather than a front line position as is the parish pastor."

In terms of similarities in district and local pastoring, "relationships and communication are essential and key to both," says Roland. "In both settings, influence comes more through relationship than

13oll) 1.111

simply by holding a position."

Changes

siastical, domestic and national. Conflicts are a natural part of life-including the church," says Roland. "But conflicts in the body of Christ seem to have come out of the closet in recent years. And they need to be dealt with in Christ-like ways. When church conflicts are not dealt with, they tend to resurface in a variety of ways. And then they can be more painful and injure more people than if they are addressed promptly and honestly in the spirit of love that confronts and heals the hurt."

The Reimers are qUick to summarize the changes they have observed by saying that some have been healthy. One such example is the email option to all SDC churches which has increased communication greatly in recent years. Roland has also guided the SDC through restructuring, bylaw revisions and changes district convention hosted every year to one held every other year with cluster meetings of several churches in the years in between.

The convention format has changed from a church hosted event to a convention held jointly with the Central District Conference at Tabor College and one that is now becoming a family event held in places such as Branson, Mo., and Oklahoma City.

Reimer feels that the centralized and urban location of the SDC office in Wichita, along with MBMSI and Tabor Wichitaa degree completion program-has been a beneficial change for all involved. "It has become a center for denominational activities in a variety of areas and has impact locally and globally" says Reimer.

The list of changes seen by the Reimers during their years of ministry among SDC Mennonite Brethren and particularly in the last years in the DM office is long and varied. "There is far more diversity in congregation profiles," says Roland.

"One can't assume the visit to one SDC MB church will be similar to the visit to another," adds Lois. "One size or style of doing church doesn't fit all." Roland's list of changes includes, "churches are more localized in mission, more staff driven, more generic-they don't identify as much denominationally as Mennonite Brethren.

Another change is the shift of financial giving for local and global mission. "Formerly, about one-third of a church's receipts stayed at home for ministry," says Roland.

"Now about three-fourths is used for local personnel and program costs."

An additional change has to do with the change in levels of commitment within families, church and denominational ministries. "Parents, and especially fathers, have become more involved in family life, and I affirm that," says Roland. "However, family commitments to educational, social and athletic events compete with and exceed their church commitments," says Reimer. Although some factors have changed, Roland smiles and remembers, "Personally, I often wondered as a kid why revival meetings had to be scheduled at the same time as the state basketball games."

In typical Roland style; other changes Concerns are alliterated with w's-worship, women When asked about concerns they have and war. "Worship styles have changed , for Mennonite Brethren pastors, Reimers quickly give evidence of their love and greatly among MBs in the last decade.

These changes have caused stresses among desires for MB life and mission.

For pastors and church leaders, the congregations not seen in earlier years," say the Reimers. greatest need they see is "for balanceDuring their years of ministry, the MB being called, competent, skilled and dedicated while also being real," says Roland. conference has taken a specific stance on the role of women in ministry. "Churches .~ authentic style is essential-pastors have been slow to respond," say the couneed to be genuine, compassionate and ple, "and there is lack of compliance with responsible too." Lois adds, "Church leadthe denomination's stance on both sides of ers shouldn't expect perfection. Give pastors space to make mistakes." When talkthe spectrum-some are not giving ing with leaders searching for a pastor, women the freedom to use gifts as our Roland says he reminds them that just as position affirms and others are overstepping the statement." they have qualifications for their pastoral candidate, "pastors are also looking for By the word "war," Roland refers to mutual respect, acceptance and fOrgive"conflict issues evident at allievels-eccle-

ness in congregations who should build on these virtues."

Other needs the Reimers see among leadership include an "every day spirituality, faithful relationships and a teachable spirit."

Three areas of concern apply to the broader MB conference. "Retention of committed and capable pastors and also people of all generations in our churches," is a concern says Roland. Long-term pastorates in recent decades have not been uncommon in the SDC. More than 15 have served at least 10 years in the same congregation and several, more than 20, says Reimer. But it is not the norm.

For Reimer, retention concerns are related to a "lack of emphasis on MB identity as a high priority. The result has been that we haven't retained as many pastors and lay members to serve," he says. "Surveys show that MBs are highly urbanized in terms of their residence." But Roland adds, "We are generally not identifying as MB in the urban setting and struggle with urban church plants. We struggle with being a distinct people with values different than some evangelical people. Ablend of MB, other Anabaptist groups and evangelicals can be a real strength. It can also become a weakness when we end up being neither and don't know who we are."

The role of church leadership is a third concern. "We haven't answered polity questions well. We have so much diversity in how we do church-it can lead to confusion, conflict and even chaos," observes Roland.

Reimer states his vision strategy for Mennonite Brethren in the future as: "When people come in touch with Mennonite Brethren, may they see a purpose to live for, people to live with, principles to live by and power to live on."

Confirmations Roland and Lois are quick to share many encouragements and affirmations of Mennonite Brethren. They observe increasing health in churches and leaders.

"Our pastors enjoy being together, caring for one another-there is definite camaraderie," emphasizes Roland. "Increasingly, people are acknowledging a call to ministry. We have increased seminary enrollments of people of all ages. Presently, 11 Continued page 30 DEC E M B E R

2 0 0 3

•

21

BOi)) LII I

PDe challenged to be "bold and fearless" in its efforts ~ Leadership training, church health and church planting emphasized at distrid convention

elegates to the Pacific District Conference convention last month were challenged repeatedly to be "bold and fearless" in their efforts to be the church-"to do our part in our part of the globe," in the words of PDC district minister Gary Wall. Convention presentations focused on both the vision and the methods needed to develop new leaders, grow healthy churches and plant new congregations. And judging by the affirmation of executive board recommendations, delegates did not shy from the challenge of acting fearlessly and with boldness.

Delegates met Nov. 14-15 at Vinewood Community Church in Lodi, Calif After hearing various board and ministry reports Friday afternoon and evening as well as Saturday morning, delegates took action on eight recommendations. They spent most of the time on two recommendations--that the conference "move to regional meetings every two years and alternating conventions every two years" and that a Board of Leadership Development be developed.

D

22

• THE CHRISTIAN

PDC Minister Wall spoke to the first recommendation in his opening address. "We are not doing a good enough job ofsharing the stories (of the POC) with the grassroots," said Wall. Noting that "only" 167 delegates were attending the 2003 convention, Wall said, ''We need to get out to where the people are and take the convention on the road (to) spread the good news."

Prior to the 2003 convention, the PDC included 114 congregations in Arizona, California, Oregon, Utah and Washington for a total of 16,524 members. The PDC is unique among the five U.S. Conference districts in that it is divided into five regions, and each region is represented on each of the five boards to which convention delegates annually elect members.

During discussion, delegates spoke about the district's previous experience with regional gatherings. It was noted that regional gatherings are convenient for local church attendees, and provide good communication about district ministries but that they require district leaders to spend significant amounts of money and time on travel. The recommendation and

LEADER

appropriate bylaw changes passed, as did the related recommendation that board terms be changed from three-year to fouryear terms to accommodate the change in convention schedule. A recommendation to realign the boundaries for two regio~ was also approved.

Wall also introduced the new Board of Leadership Development in his opening address. According to Wall, one of the challenges facing the PDC is the "missing generation ofleaders"-men and women in the 20s and 308. "We don't have bright, young, fresh leaders," said Wall. But, he noted, he is encouraged by the leaders emerging in the next generation. He challenged the district to "equip, train and fund" these young leaders, and to view ministry in the church as a "high and holy calling."

"H leadership development is a core value," said Wall, "we'd better organize for it-and we are bringing a proposal to do that." Last year the Board of Home Missions created an Internship Task Force to organize a summer internship program.

The vision for the new leadership development board grew out of that experience.

Bom 1.111.

Fred Leonard, Internship Task Force member, reported Friday afternoon that 17 young adults were given the opportunity to "test" their interest in ministry through the 2003 summer intern program. Delegates heard from two interns and from Board ofYouth Ministries chair Tim Neufeld and Rick Bartlett with MB Biblical Seminary's "Hear the Call."

Delegates were apparently convinced of the importance of leadership training as their discussion during the Saturday afternoon business session focused on specific details of the recommendation to form a Board of Leadership Development rather than the concept. While delegates understood that fundraising could initially fund the new board, some were concerned about the lack of a budget line item as well as the best way to fund the board for the next two years. Questions were also raised about the new board's specific assignments, including the fact that no component of the former Board of Christian Education was incorporated into the new board. Following discussion, the recommendation was approved, as was a related recommendation to disband the Board of Christian Education.

A highlight of the Saturday afternoon business session was the vote to accept 10 new congregations as members of the PDC and to acknowledge The Bridge of Bakersfield, Calif, as an emerging church.

Throughout the weekend, delegates were introduced to leaders of the new congregations by Loyal Funk, U.S. Conference director of Integrated Ministries, Jose Elizondo, PDC associate district minister, and PDC DM Gary Wall. Accepted as member congregations were Iglesia Aposento Alto of Bakersfield, New Life Education Church of Diamond Bar, Calif, Bethlehem Korean Church of Los Angeles, Calif., Iglesia Comunidad Cristiana Emanuel of Perris, Calif., Melchizedek Church of Roseville, Calif, Ukrainian Bible Church of Milwaukee, Ore., Church of Salvation of Des Moines, Wash., Sulamita Evangelical Church of Lynnwood, Wash., and Iglesia Fara de Luz of Vancouver, Wash.

In other business, delegates approved, with no discussion, the 2003-04 expense budget of $383,100, down slightly from the current budget of $384,600. The approved income budget totals $308,100

with $277,100 of that coming from churches. Reserve appropriations of $75,000 will cover the deficit. Delegates also voted to convert monies in the Church Planting Reserve to an endowment fund with the earnings to be used to provide interestfree down payment loans to emerging denominational churches and to assist the district in times of budget shortfalls.

1\vo keynote addresses were given.

Friday afternoon at the opening session Wall spoke briefly from the convention text, Acts 18: 9-10, and then gave a "state of the district" address. Wall listed four positive features he has noticed in his first year of ministry as the district minister.

"The Word of God is central," said Wall.

"We are teaching it, preaching it, understanding it and applying it." Secondly, "people long to see something new and fresh in our midst," said Wall, citing the deep commitment and desire to do God's work. Some congregations, said Wall, are taking a risk in "stepping out in faith for the kingdom... .1 want to go on record to say 'I am proud of you, '" said Wall. Finally,

the PDC is "staffed and aligned closely to our vision," he said.

Church health topped Wall's list of four areas of concern. "Some churches are in serious decline," said Wall. "Many others are plateaued and will soon decline. Those in serious decline were once full houses of worships. None of them expected this."

Church health is a "huge part" of the PDC vision, said Wall, and is a focus of the PDC Board of Faith and Life. "We must not and cannot abandon our established churches," said Wall.

Leadership development was second on Wall's list of challenges and church planting in an effort to help "people reach heaven" was third. The PDC also faces financial challenges, said Wall, as it seeks to plant more churches, prepare additional leaders and nurture healthy churches. "For the vision to be achieved, the resources must floW;" said Wall. Noting that "the decisions we make today will affect the future," Wall led delegates in a time of prayer.

Wall's address set the stage for the three areas on which the remainder of the

DEC E M B E R

2 0 0 3

•

23

130m till

convention and the majority of board reports were organized: "boldly and fearlessly" developing leaders, planting churches and pursuing church health.

Church health was the topic of the second convention address given Saturday morning by Larry Martens, pastor of North Fresno (Calif) Church. "Our denomination... must be concerned about not only the churches we plant, but also our established churches," said Martens. "The culture has shaped us more than the mission and design God has given the church."

Martens, who has announced his plans to retire this summer, said that his congregation has worked hard over the past 10 years to become a healthier church, and he challenged other congregations to do the same. Martens said that healthy churches are not "perfect" churches, but are rather growing congregations with "growing pains." Speaking from Acts 2, Martens said that the early church was healthy, but not free of problems. He highlighted eight characteristics of a healthy church: is focused on God, has an outward focus, is eager to learn, fosters community, builds bridges rather than walls, focuses

on impact rather than attendance, blesses its community and focuses on the fruits of the Spirit. He reminded attendees that a congregation can be growing numerically but "not be a healthy church."

PDC board reports and testimonies Friday highlighted the summer internship program, discipleship at Copperhills Community Church in Phoenix, Ariz., the mother/daughter church planting partnership in Bakersfield and youth ministry. Following the Friday evening home mission banquet, several new ministries were highlighted: work with Hispanic people in Kingsburg, Calif., The River in Peoria, Ariz., and Shadow Mountain Church in West Jordan, Utah.

The focus Saturday morning was on Board of Faith and Life issues, particularly church health, and the work among Hispanic congregations as reported by Jose Elizondo and Cesar Leyva. The delegates also convened as the Fresno Pacific University corporation and heard a report from FPU personnel and elected FPU board members.

Throughout the weekend, representatives from various national denominational and inter-Mennonite agencies gave reports.by Connie Faber

Conference and Call for Essays "Public Peace, Justice and Order"

Surround {Jotfl1etf 1Vith ramify

Palm Village residents Leona Kroeker and her brothers Walter and Ernest Warkentin

Whether you choose the freedom of Independent Living in our Patio Homes, or need the additional services offered in our Assisted Living or Skilled Nursing facilnies, you can be assured that someone you know is always nearby.

The Palm Village lifestyle offers our residents the opportunity to be as independent as they choose... for today, tomorrow, and for Ilf,1

The Peace Theology Research Project, sponsored by the MCC Peace Office, announces a conference August 1-4, 2004, at Akron, Pennsylvania, on the theme "Seeking the Welfare of the City: Questions of Public Peace, Justice and Order: The conference is open to Mennonites and Brethren in Christ from the United States and Canada. It aims for awide participation across theological and occupational ranges: theologians and pastors; persons trained in the humanities and social sciences; professionals in social work. law and public administration; activists and persons involved in advocacy work. A number of intemational participants will also be invited.

Presentations may address global, national, state/provincial or local issues, from an analytical perspective, from the viewpoint of participation in public structures through work or advocacy, or to model alternatives to current public thinking and practice.

One-page abstracts are due January 15, 2004 for consideration in the conference program.

Final essays will be in a popular style, 3,000 - 5,000 words long, organized around athesis, and without footnotes. Essays selected will be the property of the project and considered for future publication. Notification will be given by February 28, 2004.

Send abstracts by email attachment to bh@mcc.org or to Peace Theology Research Project, MCC Peace Office, Box 500, Akron, PA 17501. For more information, contact Bob and Judy Zimmerman Herr at bh@mcc.org.

24 • THE C H R 1ST I AN

LEA D E R

PALM VILLAGE

IITIIIMINT

COMMUNITY

701 West Herbert Avenue Reedley, CA 93654

Call Barbara at (559) 638·6933 (toll-free within CA) 800·928·6545 www.palmvillage.com AdmissIons, room assIgnments and services are provided without regard to race, color. national origin. dlsabl1lty or age.

Uc. 11100404809 • Managed by Ute Care Services, L.L.C.

The Area's Only Continuing Care Retirement Community

BOil) 1.11 I

, I

.,

Leith Anderson

u.s. MBs to explore identity

at summer convention

~ Restructuring, membership to be discussed in Salt Lake City hen Mennonite Brethren from across the U.S. meet together this summer for the U.S. Conference biennial . convention, it will be the conference's first convention since the dissolution of the joint Canadian and U.S. conference known as the General Conference. The dissolution means that U.S. MBs need to redefine identity on a national level, and that, says U.S. Conference Executive Director Chuck Buller, makes "this convention as important a U.S. convention as we've had since our (U.S. Conference) inception in 1954."

The convention will be held July 2325, 2004, and hosted by South Mountain Community Church in Draper, Utah. The convention will be preceded by the firstever National Pastors Conference, July 2123, and followed by the first-ever 55-Plus Corlference, July 25-26.

The General Conference officially dissolved Jan. 1, 2003, following a decision by General Conference convention delegates in 1999 to dissolve the binational convene tion and transfer its ministries to the U.S. and Canadian conferences. Because of this divestiture, Buller says, "We're aware that the U.S. Conference has to redefine its

W

identity and image, and understand its purpose in a new way." Divestiture has brought a new relationship between the U.S. Conference and both MB Biblical Seminary and MBMS International. '~ the very least," says Buller, "it means that we are owners of a seminary and a mission board."

Another critical result of divestiture is that the Board of Faith and Life, once a General Conference entity, has become a national entity. Buller says that as international discussions regarding confession of faith issues develop with groups such as the International Conference of Mennonite Brethren, "it's important ... that we show up as a U.S. Conference with confession of faith in. hand and say, 'Here's what it means to be Mennonite Brethren in the U.S.'" As U.S. MBs define identity at the convention, two major topics for discussion will be brought before the conferees-one concerning conference business and one concerning theology. On the business side, the Board of Church Ministries plans to bring a restructuring proposal before the delegates. The restructuring is an attempt to streamline the conference at the board level, and is driven by changing budget

needs and by dissolution of the General Conference, says Buller.

The Board of Faith and Life will bring the theological issue of baptism and membership before the convention. BFL will present the topic and lead discussion. The hope is that the conferees will begin to explore what membership in an MB church means and how it is related to baptism. "More than ever, we're asking the question, 'What does membership mean?'" says Buller.

The convention event will begin with the first-ever National Pastors Conference, sponsored by the Board of Faith and Life.

BFL hopes that all pastoral staff and their families will attend for a "time of refreshment and fellowship," says chair Lynn Jost.

He says that MB pastors need to gather on a national level at this time, because, "since divestiture and the separation of the faith and life ministry into national entities, there has been greater pressure on pastors and churches to seek spiritual nurture outside the denomination. While many of these sources are helpful, BFL believes there is something essential about finding identity within the family of faith we call Mennonite Brethren."

Three speakers for the Pastors ConferDEC E M B E R

2 0 0 3

•

25

B()I» 1.11 I

ence were chosen to encourage exploration of church identity, based on what Buller describes as three "predominant influences" in church culture today. Ted Haggard, representing the "evangelical charismatic" influence, serves as president of the National Association of Evangelicals and pastors New Life Church in Colorado Springs, Colo. Leith Anderson, former president of NAE, will represent the "mainstream evangelical" influence. Jim Holm, newly-appointed president of MBBS, will represent the "evangelical Anabaptist" influence. Buller says, "We want to listen to each other about why we do church the way we do."

Anderson will then be the keynote speaker for the general convention and will give two addresses on the convention theme "Living the CaIl." Anderson pastors

the nondenominational Wooddale Church milestone as the U.S. Conference honors in Eden Prairie, Minn., hosts a daily radio Loyal Funk, director of Integrated Ministries, for 15 years of ministry. Funk will program and has written nine books. He was the keynote speaker at the U.S. Conretire in 2004. ference convention in 1992.

Other special events in connection Convention worship will be led by the with the host church are being planned, including a Sunday morning worship servworship team from South Mountain Comice and a possible tour of the Mormon tem· munity Church. In addition, those who attend the Pastors Conference will be invit- pIe area in Salt Lake City. Events and activities for children and teens are also being ed to attend a concert by contemporary planned, in the hope that the convention Christian musician David Crowder designed to "treat" pastors and to reach will be an inviting event for families.

Following the convention, those in out to the Salt Lake City community. the senior generation are invited to stay This convention will mark the lo-year anniversary of Mission USA. Holding the for the first-ever 55-Plus Conference. 'lust convention in Draper will give conferees a as we minister to young people because of chance to see firsthand one of the successa generational need, ... we need to think ful churches planted in MUS~s 10 years. about ministering to seniors in a more (See sidebar.) . intentional way," says Buller. -By Myra The convention will mark another Holmes

I I

Host church brings authenticity, freedom to Salt Lake City VISITING THE HOST church for the U.S. Conference 2003 convention will give conferees an opportunity to see firsthand how one Mission USA church plant is successfully growing in a dif· ficult area. "I'd like to get as many people out to Utah as possible," says Paul Robie, pastor of South Mountain Community Church in Draper, Utah.

Draper, a suburb of Salt Lake City, is an area dominated by the Mormon church, with about 80 percent of the population claiming aIle·

26 •

THE

CHRISTIAN

giance to the Mormon first public worship service church and only two percent Oct. 4, 1998, with 40 people claiming to be evangelical in attendance. Today, SMCC Christians. Historically, evanmeets in a 20,OOO-squaregelical churches have strugfoot warehouse facility, with gled in Utah, says Robie. lover 700 people in attendance. They have planted a But what others might have seen as a lost cause, daughter church, Shadow Robie saw as a mission field.

Mountain Community Church, with attendance in In partnership with Laurelglen Bible Church in Bakersthe 70s. field, Calif, the Pacific Dis"It's gone extremely well here," says Robie. He trict Conference and Mission says that in a high-pressure USA, Robie and his family and performance-oriented moved to Draper in 1998 culture, the authenticity and and began to plant a church. freedom of Christianity is South Mountain Comespecially attractive. "We munity Church held their

LEADER

have a healthy church," Robie says. "It's a healthy group of invigorated new Christians that are maturing in Christ, going from darkness to light, from bondage to freedom. And that feeds on itself."

South Mountain is "really looking forward to hosting (the convention)," Robie says. He hopes that if attendees "see the atmosphere of very optimistic evangelism that's present here, ... hopefully they'll be optimistic about God using them."-MH

130m 1.111

MB mission agency to see change in leadership and direction ~ Ens to leave position; role of churches to be emphasized as central series of "significant" decisions regarding the future of MBMS International were made by its board of directors dUring fall board meetings. Among those were the decision to transition to a new general director, to create a more concise mission statement and to adopt a "mixed" furtding model. "I was aware of an unusual number of people interceding for us in prayer," says MBMSI board chair Dennis Fast regarding the October meetings. "It seems that others sensed with us that these meetings would include significant decisions for MBMS International."

Discussions about the purpose of the mission agency were the centerpiece during the Oct. 2-4 board meeting in Fresno, Calif The key outcome of the meeting was a resolution that the agency focus on being a catalyst for the mission vision of MB congregations in Canada and the U.S. The decision prompted the creation of a more concise mission statement that focuses on the central role of the local MB congregation: "In response to God's Great Commission, MBMS International works with Mennonite Brethren churches to make disciples and plant churches globally."

The board also decided to begin the transition to a new general director. At the April 2003 meetings the board reviewed the evaluation of General Director Harold Ens, and affirmed his continued leadership for another three years. Since then the board felt led to revisit that decision in light of a variety of other transitions that are being faced for the future. The goal is for Ens to carry his leadership through the two national conventions next summer, completing his tenure by August 1, 2004. A search committee has been formed and a search process for his successor is being developed.

Ens has served the agency for over 30 years, first as a missionary, then as adminis-

A

trator. "Harold's skills in leading the board When the discussion turned to the and mission agency dUring a time of global potential options for funding global mischange are deeply valued and prOvide a sion, it became clear that a mixed model will best serve both the churches and the foundation for the next administration," missionaries and projects they support. says MBMSI board chair Dennis Fast.

Some churches have a long history of faithBoard members expressed their appreciaful giving to undesignated support of mistion for Ens' strengths and dedication to sion work through MBMSI, says Fast. Those the mission agency. churches will be affirmed in their approach The MBMSI board hopes that Ens will even as stronger relationships are built. For transition to another role within the other churches, it is most effective to agency, says Fast. "We have sevelill ideas of directly support specific missionaries and what that might be. Nothing has been projects.

MBMSI is committed to facilitatworked out yet, but it is our goal that ing both types of relationship.

Harold will continue with MBMSI." '~ the details of these new directions During the meetings, the board are developed and shared over the coming received reports from three separate task months, we invite the ongoing prayer supforce groups as well as the evaluation of its port of the constituency" says Fast. "God mission associates program. The board has done marvelous things through MBMS adopted a set of three to five-year International in the past and we trust him vision/goals designed to keep bringing the for continued effectiveness in the mission and its supporting churches closer future."

-MBMSI news service together, as well as a relational mission strategy. These key developments, as well as the mission statement, will be presented to the delegates of the Canadian and U.S. Mennonite Brethren conference conventions in July 2004. A proposal for a new administrative structure was sent back to committee for further work.

The long-term financial sustainability of the agency's ministries was the focus of considerable discussion, prayer and decision-making. It has become clear that many Mennonite Brethren congregations want to be more relationally involved with both the missionaries and overseas partners of MBMSI, says Fast. Sholt-term ministry teams connected to long-term ministry strategies will be a key Harold Ens direction for the future.

DEC E M B E R

2 0 0 3

•

27

,

2()(l:) 1\Jlll\:

The following is an alphabetical index of the major articles and events recorded in the Christian Leader in 2003. The notations following each entry indicate the volume number, issue number and page numbers. Please note that for the first six issues of the year, the volume number was incorrectly listed as 65. The correct volume number (66) is given in the listings below.

Body Life Afghans living in a hopeful, precarious balance, 66:9:30 Assembly Gathered worship to have international flavor, 66:6:28 Becker honored at meetings for service, 66:4:23 Blizzard does little damage to Estes 2003, 66:5:24 Buller appointed exec director, 66:1:28 Called, ready, set-<an we go?, 66:7:24 CBA marks 100th year of educating young people, 66: 11 :25 CDC delegates vacation with a purpose in Omaha, 66:8:20 Classes empower students, 66:8:29 Conference legally laid to rest, 66:3:26 Congregation continues legacy by giving church building away, 66:8:24 Congregation responds to challenge of service, 66:9:26 Denver ministry offers women R & R, 66:6:24 Disaster strikes twice, 66:2:28 Estes 2003-ehallenging words, 66:5:23 Estes 2003 scrapbook, 66:5:27 FAQ's and answers about Estes 2003, 66:2:23 From farming to missions-Harold Ens, 66:1:24 Hispanic MBs gather for worship, 66:7:29 Host chruch brings authenticity, freedom to SLC. 66:12:26 Interns dive into ministry at The River, 66:8:26 Iraqi families grateful for relief kits, 66:11:27 Leader editor resigns, 66:2:26 Leader survey says...., 66:6:26 Leaders support restructuring, 66:4:22 Leadership board determined to end year in the black, 66: 11 :29 Leaving the door open, 66:4:26 Living up to expectations, 66:2:22 MB mission agency to see change, 66:12:27 MBBS teaches new missionaries, 66:2:30 MBBS to host youth seminar, 66:2:26 MBs and Mennonites in Paraguay, 66:4:27 MCC aids war-torn Liberia, 66:9:25 MCC Central States releases director, 66:11:28 MCC helps HIVIAIDS workers, 66:2:27 Mennonite Church USA gathers for first convention, 66:9:28 Mexico church plants another, 66:2:25 Mixing food and theater, 66:1:26 Move strengthens The Heart, 66:4:24 National MB ministry also offers opportunities, 66:3:27 Nebraska congregation celebrates 125th anniversary, 66: 11 :23 Newborn kits shipped, 66:3:28 PDC challenged to be Hbold and fearless H in its efforts, 66:12:22 PDC seeks ministry interns, 66:3:27 Program director appointed, 66:4:29 Public policy work relates to North Korea, 66:3:28 Relief kits treasured, 66:8:29 Roland and Lois Reimer reflect on years of duo ministry, 66:12:20 Schmidt honored as faithful servant, 66:6:22

28 •

THE

CHRISTIAN

SOC delegates debate, reach unity on financial matters, 66:9:22 Seminary graduates 35, 66:7:29 Seminary in a suitcase, 66: 1:30 Students get high marks (Estes 2003), 66:5:25 Students initiate dialogue, 66:3:29 Study conference aims high, proves helpful, 66:7:26 Study explores changes in church/college music patterns, 66:8:30 Summer youth work fuels spiritual renewal in North Carolina, 66:11:20 Teen pilot program a success 66:4:29 Texas MBs get together, 66:3:24 Theological education meets changing times, 66:11 :24 Training for youth ministers, 66:1:30 U.S. Conference finishes fiscal year, 66:7:28 U.S. MBs to explore identy at summer convention, 66:12:25 War prompts discussion, prayer (Estes 2003), 66:5:26 Youth heed HThe CaW to listen (Estes 2003), 66:5:22 Zimbabwe affirmed as site for MWC Assembly, 66:6:28 Mennonite World Conference Issue Africa 2003 Calendar, 66:10:6 Africa 2003 celebrates giving and receiving gifts, 66:10:16 AIDS in Africa, 66:10:19 Feeding the 7,000,66:10:13 Global links, 66:10:7 Global Mission Fellowship-Significant shift, 66:10:20 Holy Ground, 66:10:4 ICOMB leaders explore future, 66:10:25 Let the nations speak, 66:10:8 Mennonite Brethren Impressions, 66: 10: 10 MWC sets di~ection for future, 66:10:22 MWC wors~ipers let the music move them, 66:10:18 We need each other, 66:10:17 Deaths Adrian, Elmer Victor, 66:9:34 Anderson, Mary M. Ratzlaff Neufeld-Epp, 66:6:34 Baltzer, Earl P., 66: 1:33 Beier, Harry Orlando, 66: 1:33 Berg, Harry A., 66:10:33 Berg, Orrin, 66:9:34 Bertsch, Mable Tschetter, 66:2:34 Born, Henry c., 66:1:33 Born, Henry C., 66:4:34 Brandt, Esther, 66:10:33 Braun, David, 66:3:34 Carnes, Dolores, 66:7:33 DeFehr, Luella Balzer, 66:4:34 Dewitt, Lester Bumgarner, 66:5:33 Dick, Tena, 66:2:34 Diemer, Helen Louise, 66:6:33 Duerksen, Lydia Jantz, 66:2:34 Dyck, John N., 66:2:34 Ediger, Albert L., 66:7:33 Ediger, Tena, 66: 11 :34 Eitzen, Jacob c., 66:6:33

LEADER

Enns, Peter A., 66:12:34 Fast, Irene E., 66:5:33 Filler, Ted, 66:2:34 Friesen, Tillie Neufeldt, 66:4:34 Froese, John, 66:3:34 Giesbrecht, Lorine D., 66:6:33 Glanzer, Andrew, 66:2:34 Golbek, Jacob J., 66:1 :34 Goossen, William B., 66: 1:34 Gossen, Pauline Stobbe, 66:12:34 Gross, Anna Wipf, 66:2:34 Haag, Carol Jean, 66:7:34 Haag, Hulda Edna Ratzlaff, 66:7:34 Haag, William James HBill, H 66:7:33 Harms, Ogen Jacob, 66:5:34 Heinrichs, Theo, HSpud,H 66:10:33 Hendrix, Gaither Glen, 66:4:34 Hiebert, Otto, 66:10:34 Hofer, Emma, 66:10:33 Hofer, Joe E., 66:9:34 Hofman, Joe Theodore, 66:7:34 Isaac, Henry Winfield, 66:2:34 Isaak, Irma Koop, 66:5:34 Janzen, Frank P., 66:4:34 Johnson, Ray, 66:10:34 Jones, Vernon, 66: 10:34 Jost, Selma "SallyH Hiebert, 66:1:34 Karber, Vernon, 66:7:34 Klaassen, Justina, 66:8:34 Klassen, Jim, 66:6:33 Kleinsasser, Elfrieda Jost, 66:5:34 Kliewer, John Bernard, 66:12:34 Krause, Ellen Mae Friesen, 66:1:34 Kyle, Bryan, 66:3:34 Liesch, Arnold Robert, 66:10:34 Loewen, David F., 66:4:34 Loewen, Eleanor Helena Peters, 66:6:34 Martens, Albert J., 66:2:34 Martens, Laura Leona Schafer, 66: 11 :34 Mendal, Michael F. Jr., 66:12:34 Nachtigall, Matilda Hofer, 66:2:34 Nachtigall, Wilbur G., 66:11:34 Nikkel, Matilda, 66:1:34 Nord, Frank, 66:10:34 Pankratz, Walter George, 66:3:34 Penner, Alice Delia, 66:7:34 Quiring, Helen Martens, 66:5:34 Ratzlaff, Marie Mack Leppke, 66:10:34 Regier, Rosie, 66:1:34 Regier, Sophia M. Frantz, 66:12:34 Reimer, Cory James, 66:10:34 Rempel, Lawrence Floyd, 66:8:33 Sallaska, James Francis, 66: 11 :34 Schmidt, Anna, 66:11:34 Schmidt. Leah Helen, 66:9:34 Snelling, Susan S., 66:9:34 Steffen, Jake, 66:9:34 Strauss, Dave, 66:6:34 Suderman, Willard, 66: 11 :34 Thiessen, Anna Schmidt Wiens, 66:5:34 Thiessen, Gladys Derstine, 66:7:34 Thiessen, Lorene K., 66:7:34 Torrence, Floyd "Bud, H 66:4:34

200"; INlll X Unruh, Eleanor June, 66:8:34 Unruh, Jacob, 66:12:34 Unruh, John Waldo, 66:6:34 Vogt, Bertha Ann, 66:2:34 Vogt, Robert Wayne, 66:7:34 Vogt, Verna Mae Kroeker, 66:5:34 Wahl, Paulena May, 66: 11 :34 Warkentin, Alvina, 66:8:33 Warkentin, Harry S., 66:11 :34 Warkentin, Milton, 66:6:34 Wells, Annette, 66:7:34 Whites, Robert, 66:9:34 Wiebe, Arno, 66:4:34 Wiebe, Betty Friesen, 66:2:34 Wiebe, Clarence R., 66:3:35 Wiebe, Margret Gossen, 66:2:34 Wiebe, Nettie, 66:5:34 Wiens, Clara Pauline, 66:6:34 Wiens, Rosie Jewel, 66:6:34 Wittenberg, Evelyn E., 66: 11 :34

Editorials A good time to be MB, by Carmen Andres, 66:5:36 A personal tribute to Henry Schmidt, by Jim Holm, 66:6:36 Baptism and church membership: At the heart of a believer's life, by Lynn Jost, 66:7:36 Blest be the ties that bind, by Connie Faber, 66:9:36 History repeating itself, by Connie Faber, 66:11 :36 "m not a democrat-or republican, by Carmen Andres, 66:1:36 Keeping my eye on Jesus, by Carmen Andres, 66:3:36 More than a coincidence, by Carmen Andres, 66:4:36 My African Experience, by Rolando Mireles, 66:10:36 Walking in true beauty, by Carmen Andres, 66:2:36 Worship and God's multigenerational family,

by Connie Faber, 66:8:36

Features A quest for dignity, by Marion Meyer, 66:4:14 Advent prayer, by Nadine Friesen, 66:12:14 Alligator bait, by Leanna Rierson, 66:3:16 Being truly Christian in times of conflict, by John Derksen, 66:6:8 Big questions, bigger faith, by Rodney P. Reed, 66:8: 12 Calling our teenagers to ministry, by Rick Bartlett, 66:8:4 Caring for our parents: Learning from a mother's dementia, by Jeannie Alford Hagy, 66:9:13 Celebrating the gift of Jesus, 66:12:8 Continuing the conversation, by Doug Heidebrecht, 66:5:12 Do the poor feel welcome at your church?,

by Eddy Hall, 66:2:5 Do you work for God?, by Mary Willis, 66:3:11 Faith in the God of Life, by Pierre Gilbert, 66:7:8 Family Feud, by Tim Neufeld, 66:9:6 Fracus in the Family, by David Esau, 66:9:10 Frontline workers, 66:3:8 In Search of calling, by Gil Dueck, 66:3:4 Is God a God of war?, by Pierre Gilbert, 66:1 :13

Journeys in faith-A living sign of God's healing, by Michael Dyck, 66:7:13 Journeys in faith-Coming to the light of Christ, 66:7:14 Journeys in faith-Shipwrecked, Candy Dudek, 66:7:11 Just what have MBs said on the issue?, 66:5:14 Leisure, by Karol Hunt, 66:7:4 Life and death matters of good citizenship,

by Carol Veldman Rudie, 66:6:15 Listening to women in church leadership, 66:5:10 Military mom and peace prof find common ground,66:6:14 Nativity scenes tell more than just the Christmas story, by Michael J. Paquette, 66:34:13 Our ultimate allegiance, by Larry Martens, 66:6:4 Praying with your spouse, by Doug Britton, 66:2:9 Pulling off the highway, by Nadine Friesen, 66:7:16 Q & A with Henry Schmidt, 66:5:7 Scholarship and the church, by Rod Janzen, 66:11:10 Seeing blue leaves, by Mark Keller, 66:4:5 Six gifts women bring to the church, Nancy Heisey, 66:5:4 The changing face of adolescence, by Wendell Loewen, 66:8:8 The Easter before Easter, by Marvin Hein, 66:4:4 The first day of school, by Ben Ollenberger, 66:9:4 The flag and the cross, by Martin Lehman, 66:6:7 The manger and the inn, by Kenneth E. Bailey 66:12:4 The murder of Bird, by Ruth Vuong, 66:2:4 The servant leader as coach, by Derrick Mueller, 66:2:1 The third way, by Lynn Jost, 66:1:4 Thou shalt not share thy faith, by Mike Furches, 66:3:14 Two brothers, by Amy Spencer, 66:4:13 Vocational theology, by Sylvia Klauser, 66:3:7 Walking with them in the way, by Janice Thompson, 66:2:14 What about Judas?, by Don Petker, 66:410 What do MBs believe, 66:1:7 What good is prayer, by Ken Gibble, 66:2:8 What is "just war"?, 66:1:6 What our aging parents really need, by Karen O'Connor, 66:9:13 What power in the blood?, by Jeanne Williams, 66:4:14 When Johnny comes marching home, by Robert Rhodes, 66:6:12 When we were quiet: Germany, by Dalton Reimer, 66:1:9 When we were quiet: segregation, by Dalton Reimer, 66:1:11 Why not share church leadership?, by Lynn Jost, 66:5:9 Why we should value higher education that is Christian, by Merrill Ewert and Larry W. Nikkel, 66: 11:4 Will the real Paul please stand up, by Dalton Reimer 66:1:9

Forum Gender roles in church and family, by Randy Long, 66:8:16

Ordination decision sign of changing relationships, by Mary Anne Isaak and Jeanine Yoder, 66:11:15 Who decides?, by Ron Mathies, 66:3:19

Chuck's Corner

By Chuck Buller Dorothy ...We're still in Kansas, 66:10:27 Grande laughter please!, 66:11:19 I've changed my mind, 66:12:19 Introducing ... team 365, 66:6:19 Mark your calendars!, 66:7:22 May 31, 2003-year endl, 66:5:21 Off of the sidelines and onto the field 66:2:21 Pleasant surprises....everywhere, 66:9:20 Writing a mission statement, 66:4:21

Inquiring Minds

By Marvin Hein Christians and environmentalism, 66:4:19 Contemplating Israel and praying for our president, 66:5: 19 Divided hearts and knowing the will of God, 66:8:18 Learning about the Hebraic Roots movement, 66:2:19 Punishing evil and the likelihood of "Plan B" in Judas' betrayal, 66:7:20 Purgatory and Jesus' descent into hell, 66:6:20 Teaching on the peace position and congregational governance, 66:9: 19 The "church age", 66:10:29 The super bowl and more on Hebraic roots, 66:3:21 Understanding MCC's goals in the Holy Land, 66:12:17 Using lottery earnings and paying for ministry accessories, 66: 11 :17 What's happening in the land of our spiritual forefathers?, 66:1 :21

On the Journey

By Rose Buschman A more abundant life, 66:3:22 Anatomy of a mission trip, 66:5:20 God and Allah-Are they the same?, 66:10:30 Making a floor plan, 66:2:20 Mission trip at home, 66:4:20 Missionary spreads word in "closed countries," 66:8: 19 Obeying the Great Commission, 66:11:18 Plumbers are missionaries too, 66:7:21 Read a good book lately?, 66:6:21 Speaking the language of his people, 66:1:22 Trim from living instead of giving, 66:9:19 Ukraine vacation leads to ministry, 66:12:18

Ph'lip Side

By Philip Wiebe A "muse"ing ideas, 66:8:17 An old fashioned revival, 66:6:18 Behind the stones, 66:10:28 Death, and lessons of life, 66:4:18 Educational thoughts, 66: 11:16 Freedom and responsibility, 66:1:20 In-your-face evangelism, 66:7:19 Not so opposite, 66:9: 17 Signs in the sky, 66:12:16 The unlearning curve, 66:2:18 Well-informed in an overinformed age, 66:5:18 What the Bible isn't, 66:3:20.

DEC E M B E R

2 0 0 3

•

29

,

B< )1») LIII

Reimers

Continued from page 21

people from the SDC are enrolled in a seminary; three years ago only three were attending." Lois and Roland affirm the ministry of Wendell Loewen who serves as parttime district youth minister as a Significant factor in the increased interest. These and other encouragements fit well with one of Reimer's themes-"united and ignited."

As MBs work with one another in the power of God, they inspire others to do the same, he explains.

Confirmations include their affirmation of one another. It has been a joint venture from the beginning as evidenced in their duo reports given in churches, and at conventions and pastor retreats, their joint visits to pastoral couples and shared vision. Lois says about Roland, "What he says and does are the same. He lives his passion of ministry to God, the church and the MB conference. He is never without thoughts about what is and what could be.

He has a pad of paper by the bed and often at the dinner table to record ideas that might come or contacts that could be made. The district and people have been home to him for 40 years. His concern for small and larger churches is the same and he never tires of meetings."

To which Roland adds quickly, "Some are much better than others."

Roland describes Lois as "an indispensable partner who compliments our ministry in wonderful ways. She has adapted to many things, working as office manager for me and the district out of our home office for 10 years. " Lois' spirit and presence have been very visible and pastor's wives and women in leadership roles have felt support and freedom to share their ideas, gifts and concerns with her.

Commitment Theme statements and ideas highlighted by alliteration are a trademark of Roland's ministry. The theme of the 1989 district convention in Denver during which Roland and Lois were initially commissioned for their district ministry has stuck with them. "Sharpening our vision, strengthening our commitment and shaping our mission" are concepts that have guided their sensitivity to God's call in their lives and have also been their rallying calls to pastors and churches. As they close this chapter of their ministry lives among Mennonite Brethren, they joyfully claim the ministry verse they have given their lives to for more than 40 years. "We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us" 1 Thess. 2:8.

Continuation-not Conclusion Beginning in January, the couple looks forward to rest, renewal and the next stage of life and ministry, says Roland. "Roland may not be able to resist the office, if he's too close," says Lois. After time away with grandchildren, they anticipate seeing what God's ministry call will be for the years ahead as they continue to serve Christ and their MB church family.-By Nadine Friesen 30 •

THE

CHRISTIAN

LEADER

in dollars and service.

According to the Califori'\ia Department of Insurance Homeowners SurveYi cost of homeowners in~rance offered by Me~.?Aite Insurance Servtoes at least 10% Less than \fle ~uivalent offered l.ly "X'D-,--'.. """U other Jefding ,cQmpaAies serving central cam The ,..8011 Is 81m"".

Mennonite Insurance services is the exclusiVe agent for the Mennonite Aid Plan of the Pacific Coast. .:'."." """ No frllIfj, ........ billa.

So... if you're a member of, or regularly attana a Mennonite church•."" 1M today tor. ",.. no-obIIfIlItIon quote on your ~ insurance and a copy of the referenced 8UJVey.

me

Being tog~the,.1IUIka1M dI/I~rene••

1-800-447-4493 FR•• CALL· FR.' QUO'"

Visit: ~mennoniteinsurance.com

Mennonite It1~ ce Services A subSiiJiary (JfM'tnno~ite>-Ai(t P~Qf the Pa • c Coast

serving the. slqfes-p!<!aJiftimiar, 'biegQIJ

kington. t

f)

1110 J St . P.O. Box 878· Reedley, CA 00654· Ph. ~2327 FAX 559-638-3336 • Ucense No. OB72783

ttBear one anothers' burdens. "~_&.2

... llu..;

IN BRIEF NEWS FROM THE MENNONITE BRETHREN WORLD

..

,

FORMER DEAN OF STUDENTS NAMED PERMANENT PRESIDENT

Holm appointed MBBS president JIM HOLM, INTERIM president of MB Biblical Seminary since June, has been appointed president effective immediately.

The seminary's board of directors announced the appointment Nov. 3.

Before serving as interim president, Holm was the seminary's dean of students for six years. The board has asked Holm to focus his work on three areas: vision and strategy

implementation, growing the seminary toward long-term financial vitality and governance issues.

"Jim will lead the seminary community well," a board statement stays. "We are confident that Jim is God's gift to us for the tasks and opportunities presently before us."

Holm is a well-known preacher in MB churches in Canada and the U.S. He has a

doctor of ministry degree from Fuller Theological Seminary.

He and his wife Shirley live in Reedley, Calif., and have two grown sons and one granddaughter.

"We call for prayer on Jim's behalf and for the team of gifted people he will lead in the fulfillment of the MBBS mission," says MBBS board chair Cal Bergen.-MBBS

Church aided

by USERY EL FARO COMMUNITY Church of Reedley, Calif., has new shingles on their education building and saved about $10,000 in the process thanks to volunteers with USERY, a ministry of the U.S. Conference.

In late October, church attendees removed the old wooden shingles. 1\vo days later Ray Wiebe, from Neighborhood Church of Visalia, Calif, John Friesen, Lowell Kliewer and Richard Schellen· >erg from Reedley (Calif.) MB, ·ohn Smith from Dinuba :Calif) MB Church, Walt Wlems from Salem, Ore., and >on Loewen and Ted Thiesen rom Rosedale Bible Church of

Bakersfield, Calif, prepared the roof and then installed new shingles. The volunteers also placed a support beam near the church sanctuary to better support the second floor.

Several church members including Pastor Horatio Renteria helped dUring the entire project, reports USERY coordinator Ted Thiesen of Bakersfield. The church women provided deli· cious lunches for the USERY workers during the project.

DEC E M B E R

2 0 0 3

•

31

IN BI{II I

MORE AIDS care kits provide needed NEWS supplies to volunteers ......_....

.

_

_ -._

.

IN CONJUNCTION with space and time to deal with the number ofAIDS World Aids Day observed Dec. 1, Mennonite Central patients who come to Committee has introduced them for services. Volunteers fill in the gaps, with AIDs care kits to support home-based AIDs workers. churches and community groups organizing volunIn countries where teers to care for these sick the AIDS pandemic has and dying patients. overwhelmed an already '~ost everyone doing insufficient medical net.home-based care is a volwork, volunteers provide unteer, and they just don't home-based care to have supplies," Adams patients often with whatever supplies they happen says. "They struggle enough to feed their own to have onhand. families."

"We realized just talkHome-based workers ing about AIDS or giving take on tasks from cleanmoney isn't enough," says ing soiled clothing or Sarah Adams, MCC's sheets and bathing HN/AIDS Generations at patients to caring for Risk program coordinator. sores, rashes and other People "need something basic ailments. They may hands-on as well."

And the kits recognize provide counsel to family members, lend a listening a vital need in countries ear to patients or sing and where hospitals and clinpray with them. ics no longer have the

~ Chemyetsky joins MCC staff

.aul Chemyet&ky of Harvest Christian Center Intematlonal, a MB church In 5eattJe, Wash., recently began work as Slavic rei. tlons director for West Coast Mennonite Central Committee. In this newly created position, Chernetsky will be a liaison between MCC and some 20 Slavic churches In the West Coast region. He will visit pastors and congregations on behalf of MCC, arrange for dialog between people from Slavic congregations and MCC's staff and board, and translate MCC materials Into Russian. He Is also available to assist non-Slavlc Memonlte and Brethren In Christ congregations who would like to build relationships wtth Slavic sister churches.

Chemyet&ky's MCC assignment will dovetail with several other roles he holds. He Is part of the mission outreach at HCCI, workIng wtth local evangelistic efforts In the Slavic community as well as missions trips to the former Soviet Union. He also works half-time for King County Slavic Association and coIlalJo. rates wtth West Coast MCC's Refugee and Immigrant Issues Program In assisting Slavic Immigrants wtth documentation and social services. Chernetsky came to the U.S. 12 years ago at the age of 22. His father, a pastor, had spent &Ix years In prison during Stal.---_._---------In's reign of terror, and ha himself had experienced the discrimination that Christians exp&o rtencecl In education and Job opportunities In the Soviet Unlon.-MCC

Care kits include items such as pillowcases, bed sheets, towels and washcloths, rubber gloves and soap, as well as a $100 donation. Thirty dollars of that goes to Interchurch Medical Assistance, which provides additional med· ical items for the kitj $40 goes to community homebased care groups for needs such as training or transportation costs for caregivers; $20 helps MCC cover the costs of shipping kits overseas; and $10 goes to home-based care groups for any locally purchased materials they may need.

Information on how to compile an AIDS care kit is posted at www.mcc.orglaids/kits or by calling 877-517-5673 (U.S.)-MCC

-_._-- -

Janzen honored with lectureship A NEW LECTURESHIP

~ MBMSI withdraws from Africa

honors Edmund Janzen for mission partnership a lifetime of contributions I IlAfrica Inter-Mennonlte Mission, a 90-year-old to Fresno Pacific University.

I mission partnership, Is reshaping Itself as In his 35 years at FPU, I three of Its six partners, Including MBMS I Janzen has taught in bibliInternational, are wtthdrawlng. MBMSlIs the cal and religious studies, I mission agency of North American MB church- and developed the con88. Othars withdrawing are Evangelical Mentemporary Christian minnonite Mission Conference and Fellowship of istries major. While univerI Evangelical Churches. The continUing partners sity president from 1975 to are Mennonite Church USA's Mennonite Mis1985, Janzen wrote slon Network, Mennonite Church Canada and "Broadening the Base," a the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. Most plan to expand the outI of A1MM's partner agencies are facing finanreach of FPU. He is known cial shortfalls. Those withdrawing have IndIinternationally as a pastor cated they will end their financial contribuand speaker. tions to AIMM In 2004.-AIMM

I

I

I

32

• THE CHRISTIAN

LEADER

The Edmund Janzen Lectureship in Biblical Studies is intended to promote careful scholarship in biblical interpretation as well as the witness of the Christian church. The lectures are intended for university faculty and students, pastors and lay leaders. Lectures will occur each spring beginning in 2005 and alternate annually between scholars of the Old and New Testaments.

Janzen was honored

on FPU's homecoming weekend Oct. 10-11 at a Friday evening dinner commemorating his 35 years of service.-FPU

CHURCH NEWS

CHURCH

NEWS FROM OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS ACROSS THE UNITED STATES

!be Leader extended an invitation to ME congregations to share their plans for celebrating the birth ofChrist during this advent and Christmas season. December Church News and Notes features the submissions we received.-the editors

Christmas at Bethel Church of Yale, S.D., is viewed as a time to ceil ebrate Jesus' birth and spend special time together with family, so many opportunities are presented in which the church family may involve themselves.

For many years a special Christmas tree has been set up in the foyer, designated for Salvation Army. People bring wrapped presents that are delivered to the Salvation Army for distribution to area lesser-privileged children.

For the fourth consecutive year Bethel will participate in the Operation Christmas Child ministry of Samaritan's Purse. The Christmas ministry of MCC is also presented to the congregation for individual involvement and offerings.

Each year the church choir participates in a fund-raising radio and television program with the local Salvation Army. Area people make pledges in honor of participating musicians. the local jail. A Christmas party is Women's Ministry Service presheld for neighborhood children ents an annual Christmas party for through Good News Clubs and a community women in early Decemmeal and service are shared at the ber. Neighbors and friends join for a Cornerstone Mission. Special services ladies night out. Last year there were at the church this year Include the nearly as many guests as Bethel musical "Christmas Chlld-Samariwomen. A special program, soup and tan's Purse" presented by children sandwich supper and Christmas and youth, a Christmas Eve service goodies are part of the event. and an Awana club birthday party The music committee prepares for Jesus.• for each advent Sunday developing

I special baby that has been born. In The sixth edition of "The Bethlehem Experience," a walkthe synagogue local men discuss the scriptures surrounding the coming through drama set on the night of Jesus' birth, will be presented by of the Messiah.

Kingsburg (Calif.) MB Church Dec. As they proceed to the 22-23. Nearly 1,000 members of the Bethlehem inn, guests hear from community attend the production, the innkeeper and an excited shepproduced every other year. herd that the Messiah has been born in the stable. Guests meet Guests begin the walk-through Mary, Joseph and the newborn in the Roman courtyard where they encounter rough Roman soldiers Jesus at the stable. A minimum of four young couples with their newand have to deal with the censustaker; money changer and tax colI borns take turns in the stable lector. Upon entering the throughout the production.

Bethlehem marketplace, a much The church campus is transfriendlier place, a tour guide takes formed into Bethlehem through the them on a visit to several shopkeepefforts of many volunteers.

Approximately 60 men, women and ers such as a potter, spice seller, baker and clothier. At each shop children are in costume for the promore is revealed of a rumor of a duction.•

Many of the Christmas activities In the Bible Fellowship congregation of Rapid City, S.D., will focus on needs In the community. AII-church caroling to nursing homes followed by a soup supper fellowship was Dec. 5. Gifts are purchased for children whose parent(s) are in prison and then distributed to their homes.

Sweets and cookies are also donated and distributed to prisoners in

AIUIMOi CfJIIOi ~ ~ qo4,peL wiJI" ~ One of the outreach ministries of Reedley (Calif.) MB Church Is a Christmas Carol Festival presented during the advent season. The festival is one of the major productions of the-muslc department developed

by Pastor Bob Plett during his 27 years on the church staff in the area of worship and music. This year's festival will be the 10th under Plett's leadership.

Senior Pastor Dennis Fast says, "Preparing and producing the Christmas Carol Festival is a huge undertaking but also becomes a great rallying point for the church.

It requires the use of many talents and gifts and allows people to work together that normally don't interact." A typical pattern involves "closing" the Fellowship Hall the second week of November as crews begin set design and construction.

This year over 30 men, former builders and craftsmen, volunteered to participate in the construction phase.

By the first weekend of December the Fellowship Hall was transformed into a winter wonderland with store fronts, snow covered bridges, functioning waterfalls and

a huge pillared porch that doubles as risers for the more than gO-voice choir. Over 300 volunteers join to build sets, present the concerts, prepare and serve desserts, set and clean tables, host guests and many I other behind-the-scenes duties.

Seating is available for 300 at each of the 14 presentations where a dessert is served during Intermission. "While the effort is significant, sharing the Gospel with approximately 5,000 people makes all the work worth it for this outreachI minded family of believers," says Fast.•

I

a theme leading up to Christmas Day when the celebration is complete. The theme this year is "The First Light," with Sunday focuses on hope, peace, love and joy. Special music each week centers around the pastor's message.

A Christmas Eve children's program, planned by the Christian education board, will include the beginning Sunday school department as well as a Christmas musical by kindergarten through grade 12 children. In the musical "The Christmas S.O.C.C.E.R. Team" children think they are going to soccer practice only to find they are actually at a meeting of the "Society of Christmas Carols Emergency Rescue" where they learn the meaning of some old Christmas carols and discover the importance of Jesus' birth. In light of the fact that the local Christian high school was the South Dakota Class B High School soccer champs in 2002, and 3rd place finishers in 2003, interest is high. Very few churches in the area still have Christmas Eve programs so Bethel Church is filled to near capacity. FollOWing the program, everyone will be treated to the old-time gift of a decorated "peanut bag" filled with peanuts, candies and treats.

Christmas morning has another tradition for the Bethel congregation. For over 20 years, Bethel has served a Christmas morning breakfast complete with egg-bake casseroles, home-baked caramel and frosted rolls, milk, and juice. It is a special "family" time because college-age kids, extended family members and others who once called Bethel Church home are present to celebrate and fellowship together.

Christmas morning worship takes on a variety of styles-<antatas, dramas, traditional messages, and more, but always centers on a celebration of Jesus Christ. Christmas Season comes to an end with communion the first Sunday of the New Year. Communion is served at the church, as well as delivered by deacons to shut-ins in the country and in the community nursing homes.• DEC E M B E R

2 0 0 3

33

(:111 ){( II

Shorelife Community Church of capitola, Calif., showed two films"The Grinch Who Stole Christmas" and "The Fourth Wiseman" Dec. 6 during Family Movie Night. Admission was a donated toy for the congregation's Angel Tree. The evening also included a visit by the three wisemen, Christmas cookies, nachos

and hot chocolate. Dec. 14 the children will present the musical "It Must be Christmas." Shorelife together with three other churches will host a Christmas Eve candlelight Service. "This event allows for our smaller churches to share our gifts with one another," writes Bev Peltzer.•

Baptism/membership

been vice president of the Power of the Cross Ministry led by Yury Chernyetzky. The couple has been joined by others to form the nucleus of the church plant. Integrated Ministries Director Loyal Funk asks for prayer for this new venture.

Freeman, S.D. {Silver LakeKarissa Becker, Dana Fast, Toby Davis, Nicole Windish, Duane Deckert, Tiffany Davis and Jake Windish gave their testimonies and were baptized Aug. 3.

Sioux Falls, S.D. {Lincoln Hills Bible}RJ. Waggoner, Anna Waggoner, Dustin Warntjes, Richard Swanson, Jessica Fox, Rusty Fox, Dean Randall, Tammy Randall and Micah Collison were welcomed as new members in September.

Hillsboro, Kan. (Parkview}-Jim, Karen and Joshua Elliott were welcomed as members Sept. 28.

Fairview, Okla.-Shelia Beckner, Charlie Burlison and Waynetta Burlison were received as members by testimony Oct. 19.

Bakersfield, Calif. (Laurelglen Bible}-Andrea Bradley, Erica Bradley, Tim Denari, Shannon Lueck, Jenny Munt, Doug Pierce, Emily Pierce, Sharon Pierce, Teddi Pierce, Bethany Turk and Christian Wolfe were baptized the weekend of Nov. 1-2.

Littleton, Colo. {Belleview Community}-Alison Compton was baptized and received into membership Nov. 2. Scott Compton was also welcomed into membership.

Clovis, Calif. {College Community}Hugo and Norma Zorrilla were received into membership Nov. 9.

Celebrations Weatherford, Okla., (Pine Acres)The congregation will celebrate their 50th anniversary January 25, 2004. All former members and attenders are invited to join for the celebration beginning with registration at 8:30 a.m. Activities will conclude in the afternoon.

Ministry Charlotte, N.C.-Vladimir and Nina Muzichuk and their twin daughters have moved from Seattle, Wash., to Charlotte to begin a new church among the more than 15,000 Slavic people living in that city. The Muzichuks, from Seattle's Harvest Christian Center congregation, have felt the "call of the Lord" to begin this ministry, and the North Carolina District Conference has indicated their desire to partner with this new ministry. Vladimir has

34 •

THE

CHRISTIAN

Workers Hillsboro, Kan. {ParkviewKord Werth resigned as youth pastor effective the end of the semester.

Fresno. Calif. {Bethany}-Peng Wen was licensed through the Pacific District for ministry in the Bethany Chinese Christian Fellowhship Church which meets in the Bethany Church on Saturday evening and Sunday morning.

Lodi, Calif. (Vinewood}-Rod Suess, currently pastor of Butler MB Church of Fresno, Calif., has accepted the call to serve as senior pastor. He and his wife Janeen will begin their ministry next month.

N 1 \\" and wife Anna of Dinuba, and Nick and wife Rosemary of Kingsburg; two sisters, Tina Golbek and Elizabeth Block of Reedley, Calif., 12 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

GOSSEN, PAULINE STOBBE, Com, Okla., member of Corn MB Church, was born May 26,1914, on a farm near Corn to John and lizze Wiens Stobbe, and died Aug. 2, 2003, at the age of 89. On Jan. 1, 1934, she was married to John Wesley Gossen, who predeceased her. She is survived by five daughters, Joan and husband Archie Franz of Corn, Marelyn and husband Dave Gerbrandt of Clinton, Okla., carolyn and husband Ken Javorsky of Bessie, Okla., Jeanette and husband Larry Grunau of Corn and Margaret and husband Ray Smith of Nacogdoches, Tex.; one brother; Dan and wife Linda Stobbe of Corn; and one sister, Edna Bergman of Corn, 17 grandchildren, 37 great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren.

KLIEWER, JOHN BERNARD, Reedley, Calif., member of Reedley MB Church, was born January 15,1915, to Henry and Margaretha Gunther near Corn, Okla., and died Sept. 25, 2003. In 1945, he was married to Ruth Fast who survives. He is also survived by John, Phil and Lyle Kliewer and their families.

ltMI

Deaths ENNS, PETER A., Dinuba, Calif., of the Dinuba MB Church, was born Sept.

16, 1914, to Nickolia Peter and Anna Harms Enns in Dinuba, and died June 20, 2003, at the age of 88. For 65 years he was married to Sophie, who survives. He is also survived by three sons, Eugene and wife Phyllis, Melvin and wife Karen all of Kingsburg, Calif., and Ken and wife Karin of Dinuba; one daughter, Virginia Wiens of Sacramento, Calif.; two brothers, David

LEADER

MENDAL, MICHAEL F. JR, Houston, Tex., member of Garden Park MB Church of Denver; Colo., was born Jan. 31,1934, to Mike F. and Emma Hofer Mendel, and died Sept. 25, 2003 at the age of 69. He is survived by one brother, Dennis and wife Thelma of Sun City, Ariz. and their family.

REGIER, SOPHIA M. FRANTZ, North Platte, Neb., member of Enid (Okla.) MB Church, was born May 3, 1914, to Peter P. and Sarah Frantz in Boyd, Okla., and died October 31,2003, at the age of 89.

On April 18, 1943, she was married to Daniel R. Regier who predeceased her. She is survived by three daughters, Delores and husband Keith Hanneman of Overland Park, Kan., Evelyn and husband Norman Slade of Fruita, Colo., and Marcella and husband Gary Hofer of North Platte, Neb., seven grandchildren and two great grandsons.

UNRUH, JACOB, Reedley, Calif., member of Reedley MB Church, was born March 31, 1912, in the Ukraine, and died Oct. 7, 2003, at the age of 91. On July 3, 1932, he was married to Anna who survives.

He is also survived by two daughters, Judith and husband Paul Hackmann and Hulda Unruh, two grandchildren and two great grandchildren.•

Traver with a l'urfose

Join DMI on a 2-3 week person-to-person international mission experience.

2004 CAMPAIGN PROJECTIONS INDIA FEB 4-23 $2900 PHIUPPINES FEB I8-MAR 8 $2700 PARAGUAY MAR 17-APR 5 $2600 GERMANY APR 14-MAY 3 $2800 NIGERIA APR 21-MAY 10 $3600 FDI (sruOENTS) MAY 3-JUN 7 $4000 RUSSIA MAY 12-31 $2800 UKRAINE MAY 16-JUN 14 $2800 PERU JUN 2-21 $2600 CoNGO JUN 9-28 $3600 INDONESIA AUG 4-23 $2700 ECUADOR AUG 18-5EP 6 $2600 UKRAINE 5EP 2-20 $2800 THAILAND 5EP 9-27 $2900 MEXICO 5EP 29-0CT 18 $2400 CoLOMBIA Nov 3-22 $2600 INDIA Nov 10-29 $2900 AlL PRICES ARE IN CANADIAN DOLLARS.

PLEASE CALl FOR THE US EQlJlVAlENT.

We are looking for ordinary people who want to help churches overseas bring others into God's family.

1fow about 1/ou?

CAMPAIGNS MAY BE ADDED, RESCttEDULED OR CANCELLED BASED ON PARnOPANT RESPONSE. CHURCHES ARE ENCOURAGED TO SPONSER • MEMBERS ON OMI MISSIONS. ......

--' a ministry of

MOMS International ... ~tg~~;J&

To LEARN MORE CALL OMI AT (604 )859-626 7 EMAIL dmi<gJdminternational.org OR VISIT www.dminternational.org

1ant

Your

gacy

Where it will...

Grow

Produce

Endure

Your endowment fund will be carefully invested to increase in overall value.

Your endowment fund will provide annual gifts to help your favorite ministry fulfill its worthy mission.

Your endowment fund will last because only part of the income will be used each year.

To learn more about Mennonite Brethren Foundation's endowment options, call 1-800-551-1547 or e-mail usatinfo@mbfoundation.com