February 1997

CHRISTIAN STEWARDSHIP INVOLVES

ALL OF LIFE / p4

ALSO:

• Six things young teens want to tell their parents / p7

• Caught up in the equipment of Christianity / p11

• Should we applaud in worship? / p12

• Thumbs up for The Preacher's Wife / p34

THE WORLD COMES TO CALCUTTA

SPECIAL REPORT: Assembly Gathered, Mennonite Worl d Conference / p 14

FIRST WORDS

I••• from the editor

F YOUR ISSUE arrived a little late this month, it's because we felt it was worth it to "hold the presses" to enable us to include coverage of Mennonite World Conference in this issue . Even then, we can deliver only "Part One" this month. In Bodylife, you'll find stories and photos about Assembly Gathered, held Jan. 6-12 in Calcutta, India "Part Two," known as Assembly Scattered, will be featured in our March issue.

As memorable as Assembly Gathered was, I found Assembly Scattered-where we visited the Mennonite Brethren congregations of India-to be even more powerful. I look forward to sharing that story with you next month.

One privilege of being on-site in India was working alongside two colleagues during our stay in Calcutta. J. Lome Peachey is editor of the Gospel Herald, the weekly magazine of the Mennonite Church, and Paul Schrag is editor of the Mennonite Weekry Review, an inter-Mennonite newspaper. Together, we formed the news service for Meetinghouse, an association of Mennonite and Brethren in Christ editors. The material we produce is being shared with the seven other member publications in Canada and the United States.

We, in tum, were privileged to have Jon Warren of Seattle, Wash., join our team as a free-lance photographer. Not only did he capture some dramatic visual images, but he also freed us "word guys" to concentrate more fully on our primary calling: to articulate the spirit and significance of this remarkable event. Thanks, Jon.

We begin this issue, though, with two meaty appetizers. First, Katie Funk Wiebe encourages us to stretch the boundaries of traditional Christian stewardship (page 4)

Then John Drescher, a leading Mennonite writer in the area of marriage and family, shares some insights about the real needs of our adolescent children (page 7). It comes straight from their own mouths.

Be blessed and encouraged.-DR

COMING

• FEBRUARY 5-7-General Conference board meetings, Fraser Valley, B.C.

• FEBRUARY 27-MARCH 2-U.S. Conference board meetings, Fresno, Calif.

• MARCH 2-4-New pastors' orientation, MB Biblical Seminary campus, Fresno, Calif.

• APRIL 4-5-West Coast MCC Relief Sale, Fresno, Calif

• APRIL U-12-Mid-Kansas MCC Relief Sale, Hutchinson, Kan

• JULY 10-12, 1997-General Conference convention, Waterloo,Ont .

4

Beyond common cents

For Ch ristian stewardship to have integrity, the scope of our involvement must include more than the investment of our time and material possessions. BY KATIE FUNK WIEBE

7 Cries of the young teen heart

What comes out of the mouth of children during those turbulent adolescent years isn't necessarily what they really mean. Here are six things they really want their parents to know. BY JOHN M. DRESCHER

DEPARTMENTS

• Oversupplying the saints Inquiring Minds

• Applause in worship

• Resurrection bodies On the Journey. by Rose Buschman

• Read a good book lately? BodyLife.

• SPECIAL REPORT: Assembly Gathered, Mennonite World Conference

• Oh, Calcutta! 14

• Delegates see 'City of Joy' is also city of suffering 16

• Let the nations speak 18

• MB impressions 20

• ICOMB restructures for international strength 23

• MCC sees hope in Calcutta 24

• Vernon Wiebe remembered as a visionary servant 25

• Visalia congregation checks in at the Holiday Inn 25

• Church notes 25

• Deaths 28

• One Lord,

ART CREDITS: Cover and pages 4-9, photos by Skjold Photographs; page 23, photo by Don Ratzlaff

Conn ie Faber

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CHRISTIAN

BEYOND COMMON CENTS

WHEN STEWARDSHIP HAS INTEGRITY

God has entrusted us with much more than mere material wealth

by Katie Funk Wiebe

IGET PERPLEXED ABOUT some of our stewardship practices-including my own. Here's what I mean:

ITEM: At the rescue mission where our Sunday school class sometimes was responsible for the evening service, the homeless men had to hear a sermon before they were allowed to eat. Then, we who had brought the good news of the gospeland their bologna sandwiches-went to a restaurant to eat pecan pie and chocolate sundaes.

At fund-raising dinners, some I've even spoken at, we eat abundantly first and then hear a peppy stewardship talk. After that we put our offering into the basket .

ITEM: While in Central America on a Mennonite Central Committee learning tour, our small group was traveling on a crowded bus into the back country. At one stop a young man, his young wife, and an older woman got on the bus carrying a tiny white coffin. Our tour leader quietly translated their story for the rest of us.

Their lO-month -old child had suffered from diarrhea, so the mother stopped nursing her. The infant quickly became dehydrated What to do? It would take two hours by foot to reach the bus stop , followed by another two hours on the bus

to get to a clinic . Lack of money was, of course, a big factor in the decision .

Finally, when the child did not improve, they decided to head for the bus. The baby died just as they reached the clinic. They were now on their way home to bury the infant. I could see their hearts were heavy.

I watched our leader slip the grandmother some money. Why hadn't I thought of that? But they were followers of some strange mixture of religions, outside my usual area of giving, and I had only enough cash with me to fInish my trip I still wanted to buy a few souvenirs.

ITEM: A friend who tithes religiously, gives her money only for relief projects Another elderly businessman told his pastor proudly that as far as he knew not one cent of his money had ever gone toward anything but overseas missions. Somewhere he had the idea that money he set aside for kingdom work was like a gift certificate that could be spent only in one store.

ITEM: A young woman who had been working for several years as a bank clerk found particular joy in setting aside part of her salary for Christian causes Each payday she was off on a treasure hunt to fmd new and more interesting ministries to which she could send money She had a great stack of literature she didn't read and lots of religious hardware cluttering her apartment The mail box had replaced the offering plate.

ITEM: Every Tuesday I haul my trash cart to the curb. The next morning my trash hauler picks it up. Yet each week several other trash haulers also drive past my place to pick up my neighbors' trash I wonder at the tremendous waste of gas, equipment, and manpower.

CHRISTIANS are doing a lot of giving these days Even tithing has staged a revival. Much money is passing hands in the name of Christ, but not all of it will payoff in eternal dividends When does our giving have integrity? Stewardship means holding something in trust for someone else. If something has integrity, it is sound and unimpaired. When our stewardship has integrity, whatever we have been entrusted with by God is handled in a sound manner, not sloppily or dishonestly or without guiding prinCiples.

We've heard often we are to give generously, freely and with forethought, based on the 2 Corinthians 9 passage . I'd like to add a few principles

• PRINCIPLE 1: Our stewardship has integrity when we recognize that we hold more than our wealth, or even our talents or time, in trust.

The numerous garage sales to get rid of excess are a small sign of society's general affluence Yet we are stewards of much more, especially of our children. How we care for our children reveals to others the integrity of our stewardship of everything else. What they model from our lives reveals what we hold most important

Our greatest hopes for them will be realized when they ask themselves seriously: What does God want of me, not how can I make the most money?

Several years ago, Elise Boulding, a Quaker futurist , speaking at a college convention, told us that college freshmen should spend the first week on campus asking themselves where they fit into God ' s economy, not into the world's economy.

We are also stewards of our renewable and nonrenewable resources . Our water, trees, oil and gas and other aspects of the environment are to be handled with integrity

I've started recycling with greater dedication even though it means the inconvenience of having the garage wall lined with holding boxes until the monthly pickup

. Guatemala City has developed a different but highly efficient method of recycling. Little goes to waste there. When the garbage trucks arrive at the huge city dump, people rush to sort the loads for resale. All plastic, cloth, wood, metal and food that is not entirely rotten is reclaimed Dogs and birds compete with humans for the bits of food. The only thing that isn't precious is human beings. They live in absolute squalor in shacks made of bedsprings and plastic at the edge of the dump without sanitary facilities.

People are some of our most important renewable resources. Yet we litter human beings like used tissues when we stop thinking of them as individuals and push them into stereotypical groups: all Native Americans into this barrel, all hispanics in that one, all the poor in another

A friend told me she had been in a restaurant when a family walked in looking like the scum of the earth. She was ready to wad them up and throw them away, when the entire family bowed in prayer She changed her mind.

Older adults are also being wasted. Many congregations do not see the riches in its graying population even as some years ago we didn't see the rich lode of resources in women . We value older people when we don't let them vegetate.

How we care for our children reveals to others the integrity of our stewardship of everything else.

Some donors ... have never discovered that one of life's greatest freeing experiences is giving to causes where the receiver cannot issue a tax receipt.

We value them when we recognize that each is a gift to the congregation and has a gift.

• PRINCIPLE 2: Our stewardship has integrity when we recognize that we cannot live by bread alone-even though we think we can, or that we have to because the good life would stop if we didn't chase the dollar.

A recent speaker said we raise children to believe they have a God-ordained right to a stereo and car. Families believe they have a right to a microwave, an entertainment center, and a vacation every summer away from home. Older adults add to the manifesto for the good life by expecting extensive travel as their right.

We ftrst need the bread that comes from heaven. Jesus told his disciples : "Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternallife, which the Son of Man will give you" On. 6:27). Yet people fear lowering their standard of living worse than they fear the starvation of their souls.

During the Exodus, God provided the children of Israel with enough manna and ravens to meet their daily needs. But they weren't satisfted.

We were living in Ontario in 1958, when my husband ftrst became ill. We were without an income for a time, so generous friends donated things to us-usually what they had the most ofcanned peaches and tomatoes. Our manna that year was peaches. We ate canned peaches like the children of Israel ate manna, day after day, and like these unhappy wanderers, I grumbled. Only later did I recognize that like the Israelites our wilderness experience was a time of enoughness, not of want.

God's Word to us always is: "Feed on me. Let my Spirit sustain you. I am the living bread. Let it become part of you and change your life so that you move from despair to courage. Let your dreams be full of wanting to know my riches. Let the living bread bring the miracle of love into your life. Then give out of the fullness of compassion. "

• PRINCIPLE 3: Stewardship with integrity requires risk in giving without benefit of a receipt for a tax deduction, a reward, or visible credit.

Some donors expect something in return-at the very least a good meal, maybe a plaque, brick or even a building with their name on it. At the very least, some fun . They have never discovered that one of life's greatest freeing experiences is giving to causes where the receiver cannot issue a tax receipt.

The goal of living today is often to achieve security Sometimes I am shocked at how much money people spend on insurance each year to take all risk out of their lives: house insurance, car insurance, medical insurance, life insurance, liability insurance, dental insurance, termite insurance, cancer insurance, appliance insurance, telephone repair insurance, travel insurance, nursing home insurance. It probably won't be long before someone sells prayer insurance to the faithful: if your prayers aren't answered, you get a payoff.

Writers are encouraged to put themselves in literary danger when they write, to make themselves vulnerable. Stewardship has the same requirement. Yet sacriftce is an element we seldom hear about in the Christian life . If we give more than usual this month, our current generosity only postpones purchase of that desired item to a later date.

An older friend told me of her longing as a young girl to have a new pair of Sunday shoes. Hers were worn and scuffed. Her father had promised her the shoes if the crops were good. But Tabor College, a Mennonite Brethren school, was in a difficult ftnancial situation. As chair of the board, her father felt an obligation to give to its depleted budget. Her Sunday shoes and other family needs had to wait.

• PRINCIPLE 4: Our stewardship has integrity when we guard against the subtle destruction of our commitment by refUSing to increase our wants as income increases.

In the words of Dan Hess in Gifts Handed Down, we become "conscientious objectors to care and cumber." A stand against mindless consumerism becomes an act of faith when we refuse to keep checking the ads to ftnd ways to pamper our wants.

Friends wonder why I don't subscribe to the Sunday paper. It arrives Monday through Saturday. I refuse to allow this weighty mass of advertisements to clutter my Sundays and my wastebasket.

Though my action is only a small symbol of simpler living, each Sunday the absence of this behemoth of consumerism reminds me I can't take it with me. No one has ever yet seen a moving van at the cemetery.

This is my beginning list that I work on to bring more integrity to my stewardship. Add to it.

Katie Funk Wiebe is a well-known Mennonite Brethren writer and speaker. She is a member of First MB Church, Wichita, Kan.

BYJOHN M DRESCHER

Cries of the young teen heart

Six things adolescents want to say to their sometimes harried parents

HAT DO ADOLESCENT

youth wish they could tell their parents? I was interested in finding the answer to this question and enlisted the help of two teachers. They asked their seventh- and eighth-grade students this question, "What would I tell my parents if I could tell them anything I wanted to tell them?" Sometime later I received two stacks of responses. Certain things came through so consistently that they are worth sharing with parents and others who relate to this important time in a child's life

• "Don't treat me like a baby."

TIlis response, stated in numerous ways, was predominant. Statements like the following illustrate this common concern: "I'm not a baby anymore." " Let me grow up." "I still feel like you think I'm an 8-year-old. Let me be more independent." "I don't like it when my parents treat me like a 4-year-old." "Don't compare me to yourself when you were younger." "Quit being overprotective." "Treat me like I have a brain, and maybe sometimes I am right about things." "I would like my parents not to treat me younger than I am. I know they are trying to protect me and keep me healthy, but sometimes I think they overdo it a little."

Children grow up rapidly. It is hard for us parents to realize that by the age of 12 or 13 our children have outgrown babyhood and have entered a new stage of self-consciousness . They now need to be stretched rather than talked down to. Experts suggest we talk two to four years ahead of

them rather than speaking to them as small children.

Parents who treat their budding adolescent like an adult, at least as one who is beyond the baby stage, will likely find their child responding more and more as an adult.

• "Make me be responsible."

This one follows close on the first and is rather surprising . "I would like my parents to

Middle childhood is a great feeling stage of life. Not only does the child sense feelings all around, but the child also has a deep desire for parents especially to understand his or her feelings.

know that I can do more things than they think I can. Sometimes it bothers me that they try to do things for me when I can do them myself." "Don't spoil me. I know quite well that I oUght not have all I ask for I'm only testing." (parents know this, but did we think our children realized it themselves?) "Don't let me form bad habits, like being rude and having bad manners, like you are letting my little sister behave." AI2-year-old simply said, "Give me more responsibilities. When you tell me to clean my room I may not like it but I really need to."

These adolescents plead that parents don't insist on having things done right away, but show a little patience "Don't always bug me about getting my room done while practicing my musical instruments. I'll get it done . I may not finish it right after school, but I'll finish it."

From these statements it appears that the giving of responsibilities and feelings of trust are closely related. A child who is made responsible senses that there are expectations in life and is learning to prepare for larger responsibilities to come.

• "Stop worrying."

An adolescent child is conscious of his/her parents' feelings and this consciousness comes through in various ways. "My mom gets all stressed about things she has to do . I want to tell

her that she needs to realize that it is not the end of the world if she doesn't get everything done." They also wish that parents would stop worrying about everything the child does or says. "Have faith in me and trust me . I have enough sense to know what's right or wrong. " "Don't worry all the time about me Just because my brother messed up doesn't say that I am going to do the same things." "Don ' t always worry. I hardly leave the house!" One youngster even suggests that perhaps life with his parents would be happier if they were "hippies again" and not bogged down with so many of life's concerns .

• "Don 't be so busy. Take time ."

This important concern came through repeatedly. Adolescence is a parents' last good chance to do many things with the child. That desire is reflected in the following responses. "Why are you so busy?" "I wish you could talk to me more-more serious talks." "Why don't you take time to listen to me sometimes?" "I want my parents to spend time with me more often They are always at work or doing something. I wish we could go biking, skiing, play volleyball, go fishing, swimming, have a lot of fun together which we would remember a long time " "I wish my dad would do things I like to do. I wish most of all that he would be there not only when it's convenient to him." "I wish you would talk to

me more in more serious talks."

One student expressed a strong positive. "I love my parents, especially my mom. We spend a lot of time together."

Love will always be spelled T-I-M-E. When we have time for each other we feel loved, valued, and bonded together.

• "Try to understand how I feel."

Middle childhood is a great feeling stage of life. Not only does the child sense feelings all around, but the child also has a deep desire for parents especially to understand his or her feelings.

This was expressed in responses such as, "I just ask that my parents would never forget to think about how I feel in my situation. If they can't remember how they felt when they were my age, they should ask me how I'm feeling If they knew what I think and feel, they might be able to understand me and be able to actually do things that are good for me. "

Several respondents said parents should "try to understand me, how I feel." "Be patient with me." "If I would tell my parents anything I would say something that would make them understand

Some youngsters have fears about the future and wish they could talk about them with parents.

the world through my eyes, the eyes of a child, to try to remember how they felt when they were young." "I would tell them to try to see things from my point of view."

The concern also arose that parents be more free to share their feelings, illustrated by the comment, "Dad, don't bottle up your feelings. Express them. I never know how you feel."

A note which came through rather vaguely at times was expressed clearly by one child who said "Don't embarrass me in front of my friends." Children at this age are motivated or squelched by what is said about them, especially in front of friends.

• "Allow me more space and privacy."

This concern came through enough times that parents need to pay attention to it. "I would tell my parents to allow me a little more room and privacy." Another wrote, "I would much more likely help myself solve my own problems if they would just let me alone. If I am nagged constantly, I just sulk more and am more disobedient." "I would like my parents to know that sometimes I would like to be left alone. I like my privacy and I like to do what I want to do by myself without interruptions."

Although this is an active age during which many youngsters like a lot of friends and activities, they also need "alone" times. Some children need more space and privacy than others.

Some youngsters have fears about the future and wish they could talk about them with parents. One wished he could talk with his parents about something he stole from a store some years before. A number of times children suggested that parents not pretend they were perfect when they were young.

Although the question they were asked to discuss might have led them to think of negatives, some responded with occasional affirmations such as, "Most of the time I am very appreciative of my parents and the things they do for me, so I really shouldn't complain." One even made a list of "Things I appreciate that my parents do."

Beyond the brash and sometimes hurtful things that come from the mouths of our adolescent children are messages we need to hear. Can we hear what they're really saying? •

John MDrescher is the author of many books and articles, including the popular volume, If I Were Starting My Family Over Again . He lives in Harrisonburg, Va

Stuck on old gum?

While trying to ready my mind for the sennon I have to preach for World Fellowship Sunday, I read through the January issue of the Leader . After being convicted by the articles about peace, and fmding a few examples to use in the sermon, I stumbled into yet another exposition about different worship styles (Ph'lip Side).

Everybody has an opinion on this particular topic, which sticks like old gum on our shoes-the more we try to get rid of it, the messier it gets. Considering what Philip has to say, I am reminded of a story I heard while attending a seminar on church and music in my home country of Germany, where 15 years ago we talked about the very same issue The speaker said when his parents and their generation entered World War 2, the church had nothing more to be concerned about than whether nylons were from the devil and whether women could wear them to church

With 12 pages of various civil wars around the world and peace positions of Anabaptist theology in my head, I can't help but be reminded of the nylons. The issue is relatively insignificant in world history and our call to be faithful stewards on this earth

Taking care of this earth, God's household, is more than bickering about who will be touched by what style of worship. Why don't we let God touch people wherever, with whatever, and in whatever worship service God pleases and do our job to worship the Creator God instead of the God we have created?

Sylvia M Klauser Fresno, Calif.

The realm of miracles

The December issue featuring "The Star They Saw" is excellent! The writer, Roger C. Wiens, has done an excellent service to the cause of Christianity. It is certainly true that miracles need not only be in the realm of the event itself, but also in the timing of that event. God's sovereignty over time and space infmitely exceeds our thinking and imagination. The writer

WHAT READERS SAY

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clearly alluded to this and made the Christmas story come alive from the astronomical perspective

Were it not for the Christian Leader, I should have very few connecting links with my dear brothers and sisters south of Canada. Having lived in the United States for some 37 years, the many acquaintances and friends are of great importance to me.

R. M. Baerg Saskatoon, Sask.

Sins of the past

We didn't sin deliberately, but Mennonite Brethren have a lot of ethnic repenting to do . We got it wrong when we began the Mennonite Brethren Church in 1860 . Somehow we thOUght the highest calling for the Mennonite Brethren Church was to be a Low German church. The world was divided between Low Germans (who we thOUght could better keep the faith) and the English (the rest of the world)

Then we turned on our own and drew lines in the sand. I lost a godly uncle because he was General Conference Mennonite His wife had to give up her membership in a Mennonite Brethren congregation to marry him. My uncle, gentle soul that he was, tolerated it-and got some good support from family

In the last book of the Bible, John paints a glorious picture of heaven All tears, hunger, violence and prejudice have fled. Standing around the throne and praising God are "a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation , tribe, people and language " (Rev . 7:9).

By contrast, take a quick look around Planet Earth Racial prejudice and ethnic hostility simmer everywhere, only to explode suddenly in destruction The worst racial prejudice of the ancient world was between the Jews and Gentiles, who were separated by an ugly "dividing wall of hostility." But Paul dared to claim that the gospel "put to death their hostility" (Eph. 2:16). Why? Because both Jews and Gentiles stand together at the foot of the cross . Reconciled to God, they must be reconciled to each other, which in fact is exactly what God intended.

So here is our Mennonite Brethren agenda. If we take the gospel seriously, we can never raise the ethnic question again There aren't Low Germans in the Mennonite Brethren church They have lost that distinction around the throne praising God. We are one! Vernon Wiebe Hillsboro, Kan.

Editor's note: Vernon Wiebe, a beloved leader in our denomination, is now experiencing firsthand the glorious worship of heaven. Notice of his recent death appears on page 25. We will desperately miss his godly, gentle counsel and creative vision

The Christian Leader welcomes brief letters to the editor in response to our articles or of relevance to the Mennonite Brethren Church All letters must be signed and will be edited for clarity and length Send letters to Christian Leader, Box V, Hillsboro , KS 67063

BY PHILIP WIEBE

Oversupplying the saints

There is a danger in getting more caught up with the equipment than the experience of Christianity.

EVERY JANUARY the office supply warehouse where I keep an account sends me a thick catalog. Since my tiny office

give me enough time and I can probably think of a reason.

On page 41 I find a futuristic-looking stapler that sits upright like a joystick for a computer game.

is already stacked to the ceiling with papers and equipment, I merely toss the unread catalog directly into the recycle bin, right? It does exactly the same job as the cheap blue staWrong. For mysterious reasons, I'm a sucker for office supplies. I drool over envelopes and filing cabinets the way others might covet the latest offerings from Spiegel or Sharper Image.

On page 11 of my catalog, for instance, there is some cool designer ink jet paper called GeoCrumpledGray, which looks like someone has wadded it up, then tried to spread it out again. Though I have no conceivable use for this kind of paper, I still think it would be fun to order. Maybe I could print out my tax forms on it and gamer some sympathy from the IRS.

Page 13 offers some great interoffice manila envelopes featuring tie strings and a bunch of columns to write messages and calculations for colleagues. Of course, since I'm the only employee in my office, I'd only be dispatching documents to myself.

On page 18 I see a nifty pop-up dispenser for Post-It notes, which would spare me the time-consuming inconvenience of having to pull notes manually off the pad. I'm already thinking about how I can use the extra .05 seconds I'd save each day.

A magnetic clip on page 38 looks big enough to clamp onto a dictionary and hang on the refrigerator. I'm not sure why I'd want to hang a dictionary on my refrigerator, but

pler I've been using for years, but clearly with more style.

Page 58 shows a versatile Open/Closed sign with a space to attach letters and numbers showing business hours and other information. Not that I get any live customers cOming through, but maybe I could hang the sign outside my office to remind me not to sneak back in after hours: "CLOSED! Come back tomorrow!"

On page 62 there is a wonderful old-fashioned time clock-the kind in which you stick your time card and it goes KerCHUNK. I'm not saying I have a use for it, I just like the KerCHUNK.

Page 79 displays a pen that costs only $119.99 . I can't say why it would be worth $119 more than a 99-cent pen. Maybe creativity is built right in.

On page 124 is the multifunction office machine I want . It prints, faxes, scans, and copies all in one unit. Granted, I already own a printer and a page scanner that allows me to fax and copy stuff. But these occupy two units instead of one, which has the tremendous disadvantage of, uh, well, when I think of a tremendous disadvantage rlliet you know.

A lot of great stuff in this catalog would be fun to order, but in reality

I won't. Don't need any of it, other than the occasional ink jet cartridge, ream of paper or software upgrade. I'm well-equipped to do what I do. That doesn't stop me from drooling over stuff that would look great in my office but wouldn't necessarily help me do my work more efficiently or effectively.

Often I think today's church faces a similar dilemma. Equipping the saints is a huge industry Catalogs full of resources, workshops, equipment, and other services promise to increase church efficiency and effectiveness.

No doubt many of them do. I've benefited from the occasional timely workshop or insightful resource myself.

Butthere is a danger in getting more caught up with the equipment than the experience of Christianity. Every year when I receive my office supply catalog, I momentarily ponder my "dream office"-the artful arrangement of furniture, equipment, and accessories that would constitute the perfect working environment.

Then reality sets in. I still have to write the words and edit the manuscripts required to fulfill my job description. This depends far more on applying elbow grease than collecting office equipment.

It's the same in the church.

Though a huge marketplace of books and videos and tapes and seminars and so on promise to help us achieve our "dream church," the real church is simply people applying elbow grease. People living consistent, devoted, spiritually minded lives.

We are the body of Christ, and each one of us is a part of it (1 Cor. 12:27). As such, God has given us gifts and abilities "to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up" (Eph.4:12).

The church is already equipped to do its job. That equipment is us.

INQUIRING MINDS

BY MARVIN HEIN

QI've noticed that when we are in a worship service and the congregation applauds after a rousing musical number, you do not join in the applause. Why? (CALIFORNIA)

AFirst, let's be clear that we are distinguishing between applause and clapping. In my mind these two are not synonymous. Applause is a response to a performance, commending someone for a job well done. Clapping, at least in the biblical sense, is something you do as an element of worship to God. "Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy," says the psalmist (ps . 47: 1) .

I'm not prepared to speak against people clapping their hands in worship. Judith Martin said it well when she distinguished between clapping of hands as "an expression of religious awe or joy, and the clapping of hands to denote approval and appreciation for the achievements of our fellow mortals. "

I see nothing in the Bible that commands the latter. I'm told that Psalm 47:1 is the only reference to God's people clapping their hands . It is in a call to worship, not as a response to a perfonnance. I do not respond in worship with applause because the perfonner(s)'s motivation oUght to be the worship of God. The perfonner does not need my approval. I love expertise in musicor drama or preaching or whatever is done in church. But I refuse to look at the elements of worship as a perfonnance. I will seek to affirm those who have served in worship, but that will be done in some way other than applause

Recently, when I mentioned that I don't applaud in church, a young woman asked, "You mean no matter how good it is?" That's the point. Some people say they are applauding God But it seems clear to me we

are applauding the rendition of a perfonnance. That is not part of worship.

I asked a pastor friend why he applauded during worship services. He said: "I consider applauding after a good musical number like saying 'Amen!'" If.you can honestly say that, have at it. But most of us haven't thought that far when we cheer on the choir in much the same manner we root for the home team on Saturday night.

I trust that the Spirit will continually be at work so that we-I include myself-learn more about what it means to worship within the bounds of God's Word. If I understand the meaning of worship correctly-that God is our audience-and we "do worship" for him, then perhaps God is the one who should decide whether we should applaud. Just remember that those who lead in worship are the prompters, not the objects of worship.

QIf a new body is given to me when I die, why would the body that was put into the grave come to life again? What happens if no body is put in a grave, but is burned or scattered or eaten by animals? (KANSAS)

AThis inquiry comes as a response to a previous column about the dead in Christ. The writer poses his question after observing that 2 Corinthians 5:1-5 speaks of having a body of heavenly origin when we die Then, 1 Corinthians 15:51-53 says that at the last trumpet those who are dead in Christ will rise from the grave. So if a new body is given at death, why does another body have to come to life at the resurrection?

My understanding of 2 Corinthians 5 is that we receive resurrection bodies only at the time of the resurrection, not at the time of death.

Have a question about a Bible passage, doctrine, conference policy, or other spiritual issue? Send it to 'Inquiring Minds," c/ o Marvin Hein, 4 812 E. Butler, Fresno, CA 93 72 7

Eugene Peterson translates 5: 1 this way: "We know that when these bodies of ours are taken down like tents and folded away, they will be replaced by resurrection bodies in heaven-God-made, not handmade .... " Admittedly, the passage does not stipulate precisely when that transfonnation takes place.

That still leaves unanswered the question of where our spirits reside, and in what shape, between death and the coming of the Lord. All we know is that Paul describes that situation as "far better." So my conclusion is that the new, resurrection body is given only when we are resurrected, not at death. That would explain why, when the dead are raised incorruptible, we receive new bodies.

How we receive these new, heavenly, resurrected bodies when the old, decayed body lies six feet underground is surrounded in mystery But if God is able miraculously to give us supernatural bodies to replace those wonderful but frail human bodies in which we now live, is it difficult to believe that the absence of a body in a grave will be an obstacle for God in giving me a new heavenly body?

A God who can do everything that the resurrection implies should have little trouble forming those heavenly bodies described in 2 Corinthians 5.

ON THE JOURNEY

BY ROSE BUSCHMAN

Read a good book lately?

This is the time ofyear when it's good to curl up on the sofa with a cup of hot chocolate and a book.

FOR CHRISTMAS this year my husband and I gave each other books as gifts. I gave him Philip Yancey's book, The

unclean just from reading a few chapters. Other books are meant to be read once so that at least I can say I have read them . Still others are friends that are read over and over.

Jesus I Never Knew, and he gave me the Sierra Club's Guide to the Desert Southwest. For the next week he studied the desert guide while I Sometimes, I read books that have viewpoints with which I don't agree, but then at least I know what the "other side" is thinking became engrossed in Yancey's book. Later, we switched.

Books are important in our home. You can tell by the investment we have made over the years in our home library. Neither my husband nor I is very good at walking into a bookstore and then walking out again without buying at least one book. It helps that we understand each other's need to read

I didn't have many books as a child, except for a Bible story book, which I read over and over. But I remember reading whatever I could get my hands on at school and listening attentively when my teacher read books to us in the third grade.

About eight years ago a principal in Kansas told me to go through the basement storage area in an old elementary school and see if there was anything I wanted before she threw out the clutter Imagine my surprise and excitement when I found copies of the same third and fourth grade readers I had used as an elementary student in Canada.

Some books are not meant to be read, at least not by me. I remember a library book which had been highly recommended as a popular novel. By the time I finished the third chapter, I decided that I didn't need to read any more of it. The language and sexual innuendoes were such that I felt

How can I disagree with a philosophy or position I don't understand? This gives me a better foundation upon which to build my own ideas and beliefs. It's not easy reading such books and I don't do it a lot, but it's still important for me to do so from time to time.

Some books are meant to be read several times. Others are meant to be studied and digested chapter by chapter Yancey's book, TheJesus I Never Knew, is such a book. A book like this needs to be read through once in order to get an overall perspective of what the author is saying and then needs to be reread chapter by chapter and studied for its content. Since Christmas is just over, I've been working though the part of the book that deals with Jesus's coming as a baby in Bethlehem.

Yancey suggests that Jesus changed the way in which human beings approach deity. Old Testament Jews associated fear with worship. Other religions at that time also looked upon their god(s) with awe and trembling and some even required human sacrifices. As Yancey says, "What can be less scary than a newborn with his limbs wrapped tight against his body? In

Jesus, God found a way of relating to human beings that did not involve fear."

It's amazing how babies open doors where older people fail. Just this past Christmas we took our son and daughter-in-law to a fancy restaurant to celebrate their wedding anniversary. Little 5-month-old Emily was there, too, and for the first half hour she entertained herself by watching the waiters serve food and the four of us eat it. After a while she began to fuss, so I took her and walked around in the restaurant with her. Now I don't normally wander around in restaurants, but this evening was different Most people knew what I was about and smiled, some even talked to me. One man asked me if she slept well at night.

"I don't know," I said. "I'm just the grandma. It's not my problem "

Strangers don't usually talk to each other unless there is a compelling reason to do so, but with a baby in my arms things were different. That evening, because baby Emily was there, people were not afraid to talk to me

Jesus came as a baby, and a new concept in religion was born.

When it comes to Bible translations, I have thoroughly enjoyed reading Eugene Petersen's, The Message, The New Testament in Contemporary Language. Take for example, his rendition of Romans 12 : 1-2: "So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life-your sleeping, eating, gOing-to-work, and walking-around life-and place it before God as an offering Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it."

This is the time of year when it's good to curl up on the sofa with a cup of hot chocolate and a book

Read a good book lately?

Oh, Calcutta!

• India 1997 will be remembered as much for its setting as its sermons. For the host church and foreigners alike, Assembly Gathered was an eye-opening celebration of the Mennonite global family.

SOMETIMES the impact of an event exceeds the sum of its program . Assembly Gathered, the 13th convention of Mennonite World Conference, was that kind of experience for many of the 4,500 participants from around the globe who came to Calcutta, India, Jan 6-12, to celebrate their kinship in Christ.

The official agenda of the event, defined by the theme, "Hear What the Spirit Is Saying to the Churches," was neck-deep in words-three Bible messages a day, plus afternoon seminars and various other meetings What lift-

ed delegates, though , were the unofficial moments, those in-between times when the Spirit seemed to speak most poignantly:

• in the participation of some 3,000 Indian believers, the vast majority of whom were able to experience the global nature of their church family for the first time;

• in the minority status of the 1,500 foreigners who for the first time experienced the reality of a global family that has more brown faces than white;

• when the energy of Esengo , the

COVERAGE OF ASSEMBLY GATHERED in Calcutta, India, was a cooperative project of Meetinghouse, a North American association of Mennonite and Brethren in Christ editors

The reporting team included Jon Warren, a free-lance photographer from Seattle, Wash. ; 1. Lome Peachey, editor of the Gospel Herald; Paul Schrag, editor of the Mennonite Weekly Review; and Don Ratzlaff, editor of the Christian Leader.

Mennonite Brethren choir from Zaire, sparked a spontaneous frolic of unity and joy for some 100 participants during a post-service concert;

• during a game of "Bat Moth," a form of blindfolded tag, when shared laughter and perspiration melted barriers of language and culture;

• on "center stage" at the Global Church Village, where performing groups from around the world expressed their commitment to Christ through music, drama and dance;

• during a concert of prayer in which small huddles of believers offered praise and petitions for the church in their respective homelands;

• while sipping sweet, milky tea with fellow Mennonites and Brethren in Christ from 66 countries

At this assembly, only the second MWC gathering held outside North

Dressed in ceremonial garb. a member of the Indonesian Cultural Team performs a dance and music presentation during an Asia Day service.

English with immediate Hindi translation was the language used from the stage. but other languages. including Telegu. were available

through audio hookup.

America or Europe, the setting itself spoke as powerfully as any sermon. Calcutta lived up to its billing as a city where suffering and joy intermingle. During daily bus trips to and from St. Thomas School, the site of the convention, delegates struggled to absorb

A "concert of prayer" united the global family in a period of petition and praise.

the chaotic and sometimes desperate existence of even a narrow slice of the city's 12 million people (see sidebar).

The St. Thomas campus, which was renovated and spruced up for the event by a corps of local Mennonite volunteers in lieu of rent money, became an oasis of relative normalcy. But even perimeter walls surrounding the grounds could not keep out Calcutta's influence altogether. Choking smoke rolled in each evening from the cooking flres of the surrounding neighborhoods. By week's end, a continuous chorus of coughing accompanied the services

Certainly, no one could complain about Calcutta's warm weather, ideal for a conference held mostly outdoors. Plenary gatherings-two every morning and one each evening-were held under a huge canvas-and-bamboo tent known as a shamiana, which covered an area roughly the size of two football flelds. Each day, the planning and focus of the services shifted to a different geographic region. Meals were served under another shamiana .

Also on the school grounds, a Global Church Village featured the five continental regions of Mennonite World Conference. In the middle of the layout was a central "stage," where music and drama groups performed each afternoon.

Designed to promote cross-cultural sharing, the Global Church Village offered displays, exhibits, activities, performances and games representative of each continent.

The only indoor activities were seminars, held in a classroom building, and meetings of the General Council, Peace Council and Faith and

Assembly Gathered Registration

TOTAL: 4,472 registrants from 66 countries

COUNTRIES WITH THE MOST REGISTRANTS: India (2.942), United States (650). Canada (291). France (55). Germany/ Netherlands (50). Japan (44).

COUNTRIES WITH FEWEST REGISTRANTS: Austria. Costa Rica. Cuba. Fiji Islands. Israel. Italy. Laos. Lebanon. Malawi. Nigeria, Russia. Trinidad (1 each).

Plenary singing was led by an Indian choir with instrumental accompaniment.

Life Council, held in a church on the campus.

Many participants spent part of their afternoon touring the city Sixteen tours were offered each day. The

ones featuring the work of Mennonite Central Committee and Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity sold out almost immediately.

As a result of the planning and hard

work of local organizing committees, the week-long event was amazingly free of serious logistical crises. But a few ripples did arise :

• Miscommunication led to misunderstanding when a group of several hundred Indian delegates arrived Monday evening with mistaken assumptions about their registration fees.

• In the middle of the week, two MWC staff members were injured, one seriously, when the car they were riding in was struck by a bus in the frenetic Calcutta traffic .

• The distraction of participants coming forward during services to snap photographs led to a photo ban during Sunday's concluding serviceeven for members of the Mennonite press. Several participants ignored the prohibition anyway.

• Some North Americans felt spanked rather than inspired during Sunday ' s service when speaker Charles Christano of Indonesia criticized worship trends in the Western church.

• Theological differences within the Mennonite family raised their

Delegates see 'City of Joy' is also a city of suffering

CONFERENCE

sermons may be forgotten, but images of Calcutta are forever fixed in memory. Barefoot children in filthy clothes. Majestic temples. Crippled beggars. Manpulled rick-shaws. Choking air pollution. Boys playing cricket. Rats. Once-grand buildings crumbling into ruin. Traffic chaos. Women picking through piles of garbage.

And most of all, people-12 million of them, filling the streets with a mass of humanity.

"It's an amazing intersection of worlds," said Jim Loepp Thiessen of New Hamburg, Onto "I've had the tears so close to the surface, I feel emotionally raw."

Loretta Snider of Kitchener, Ont. , agreed. "The contrasts of Calcutta are extreme," she said. "Every sense is assaulted to the maximum. Vocabulary such as crowded and spacious, hope and despair, clean and dirty, joy and sadness, old and new, and

compassion and compassion fatigue inadequately describe the ends of the continuum in Calcutta. "

For many of the 4,500 people who attended Assembly 13 of Mennonite World Conference, seeing the suffering in the "City of Joy" put their own lives in a new perspective.

"In Russia they say everything is so terrible, but look at this poor population," said Willie Peters of Novosibirsk, Russia. "We have no cause to complain in Russia when we look at the poor folk here. "

Along with images of poverty on a massive scale, conference attenders will take home memories of those who ease the suffering.

The most famous of these are the nuns of Mother Teresa's order, the Missionaries of Charity. Groups of Mennonites attended mass with the nuns at the convent where Mother Teresa lives. Some volunteered at her places of ministry, including the

Assembly Gathered offered delegates a chance to forge international relationships. Here. Men· nonite Brethren Nzash Lumeya (left) of Zaire shares his perspective with Gordon Nickel (center) of Canada and an unidentified Indian delegate.

Children cared for by Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity flock to Inspect the name tag of Mildred Vogt, Newton, Kan_, one of many India 1997 participants to tour this ministry to Calcutta's poor.

For some, the full schedule of daily activities was just too much

heads from time to time . For instance, some cringed when a North American speaker, determined to preserve inclu· sive language, proclaimed, "God calls people to GodselJ." Meanwhile , another North American speaker was criti-

Home for the Destitute and Dying.

Mother Teresa had been scheduled to bring greetings at the conference's opening night but was too ill.

Several conference attenders said it was good to hold the gathering in a place that gave a firsthand look at the depth of human need.

Alex Romero of Orange Walk , Belize, said North Americans and Europeans made a statement by coming to Calcutta. "If we were in North America or Europe, we would be in huge buildings and have everything we needed, but here I see that you came to live in the real world," he said. "It is a reminder to us that we are just pilgrims in the world. This city changes our worldview. "

For Hector Argueta of Guatemala City, Guatemala, God spoke through the Calcutta experience. "Everywhere we move about in the City, God speaks to us in the living conditions of the people, " he said. "That is why Mennonite World Conference was wise in having this conference in this setting."-Paul Schrag

cized by some for overusing the pronoun "he" in reference to God

But as the conference ended, MWC leaders expressed satisfaction with how well the assembly had gone. "It's gone

staff member in the Asia pavilion involves an Indian delegation with a "hands-on" effort to reproduce native lettering.

far better than my fondest dream," said Vern Preheim, an executive committee member from Newton, Kan.

One goal not fully achieved was helping people from different parts of the world give and receive counsel, said Larry Miller, MWC executive secretary.

"We needed something in the structure to help people talk with each other cross-culturally," he said.

For visitors from North America and Europe, India 1997 was particularly compelling because of its setting in the Two-Thirds World. For the 85,OOO -member Indian Mennonite church, the location of Assembly 13 was cause for excitement and satisfaction It was also a learning experience, especially for those who came from small villages, said P.B. Arnold, a member of the executive committee and president of the India MB Conference.

"When they come here and find that Mennonites come from all over the world, that is surprising for them," Arnold said. "We are greatly honored by the presence of the world body here "

Werner Kroeker, a North American who has been on a goodwill assignment among the Mennonite Brethren churches in India since last fall, agreed

"For the Indian Mennonite Brethren Church, this has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience," he said. "People borrowed money to come here, so that their children who are not old enough to understand will be able to say someday, 'I was at Mennonite World Conference.' It's that important to them."

Interaction between foreign and native participants continued in settings beyond Assembly Gathered in Calcutta Most foreign attenders also participated in Assembly Scattered, a series of tours to major Mennonite centers throughout India which were held before or after Calcutta.

The tours not only introduced MWC guests to the life of the local church, but also gave Indians who were unable to attend the Calcutta meeting an opportunity to experience global fellowship.

A firsthand report of Assembly Scattered will appear next month .-Don Ratzlaff with Paul Schrag

The Global Church Villlage gave delegates a chance to experience the culture of various continental regions. Here a woman

DA Y BY DA Y A T ASSEMBL Y GA THERED

Let the nations speak...

• Organized by continents, the daily worship sessions highlighted the triumphs and trials of a global church

EUROPE DAY/ JAN.7

'Our testimony is weak'

THEMIGRATION of 25,000 Mennonites from Russia to Germany over the past 25 years has resulted in a less-than-happy reunion. The immigrants, known as Aussiedler, and the established German Mennonites mostly worship in separate congregations because of their cultural differences

"It is more a time of separation than of being together," said Liesa Unger of Karlsruhe, Germany, who works with the German Mennonite voluntary service organization Christliche Dienst. She led a seminar on "Mennonite Migrations from Russia to the West" during Europe Day.

The differences that separate the Aussiedler from the established German Mennonites are the result of the Russian Mennonites' years of cultural isolation in the Soviet Union, Unger said.

"They think the culture they have

in church is the German culture," she said. "Then they come to German churches and see women in jeans and short hair and earrings, and they say, 'These are not Christians. '"

Because the Aussiedler consider the established German churches worldly, they have started their own congregations. There are now about 100 Aussiedler churches in Germany. These make up more than half of the German Mennonite population.

In addition to the 25,000 Aussiedler, about 120,000 people of ethnic Mennonite background who now belong to other churches also have migrated

The migration began when the Soviet government began allowing Germans in Russia to move to Germany if they had close relatives there. Some families had to wait 10 to 15 years for permission to move.

In the late '80s, Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev began allowing Ger· mans to move even if they did not have close relatives in Germany. This led to

a flood of immigration and the decline of Russian Mennonite churches.

Europe Day's theme was "Without Vision, the People Perish." Introducing the day, Ed van Straten of the Netherlands spoke of the need to revitalize European churches.

"We see that our numbers are declining, our spiritual lives are getting tired," he said. "Our testimony is weak, our voice is not heard . For many, the church is only a marginal presence in their lives. We in Europe need vision, and we turn to you [Mennonites around the world] to help us rediscover it." -Paul Schrag

NORTH AMERICA DAY/ JAN.S

From parent to partner

PARENT

for much of the international Mennonite family, North America led Wednesday's sessions as a partner among equals.

"God used North America as a springboard," India's J.P. Masih noted in his introduction. On behalf of his compatriots, he characterized the early missionaries as "great champions who left everything to be in our midst."

The day's three plenary sessions, meanwhile, acknowledged the new international partnership. They also

Esengo. the Mennonite Brethren choir from Zaire. became a source of energy and joy on Africa Day and throughout the conference.

demonstrated the new diversity of the North America scene, where churches worship on any given Sunday in more than 40 languages.

The keynote speakers applied the day's theme, "Hear and Heed the Living One," as a universal word to the churches.

Patricia Shelly, a Mennonite Central Committee volunteer from Kansas, noted in the morning session that hearing the Word of God and then doing it is not always the sequence of faithfulness. Sometimes doing must precede hearing.

"Isaiah says carrying out the agenda of God enables us to hear the voice of God," she said . She pled for a worldwide church that would love the poor and oppressed as Jesus did Larry Martens, a pastor and educator from California, said the exhortations of Christ to the seven churches of Revelation apply to the contemporary worldwide church. Some churches face specific pressures more directly than others, but the struggle with materialism, moral compromise, lack of love, doctrinal impurity, divided loyalties, persecution and discouragement knows no boundaries .

"But in Christ, there is hope for the unfaithful church," he said Stanley Green, president of Mennonite Board of Missions in Indiana, warned of the "privatism of faith" that has taken root in the individualistic

culture of the West and is spreading to other comers of the world. "If the temptation to power was a problem for ftrst-century Christians, then the challenge of privatism is a danger for Anabaptists in the 20th century," he said.-Don Ratzlaff

ASIA DAY/ JAN.9

A mighty faith minority

TAN

JAY SIE couldn't save himself from drugs, but God could. Sie, of Singapore, was a heroin addict for 18 years. He spent eight of those years in prison.

"My family, my friends and most people seemed to agree I was a hopeless case," said Sie, who was one of six believers to share a testimony during the evening service on Asia Day.

While an addict, Sie considered suicide. One day he broke down and cried. "I remembered the Jesus that was preached to me when I was inside prison," he said. He enrolled in a Christian halfway house.

"God is so good that he gave me a new life," Sie said. "He brought me to the Mennonite church. There I was nurtured and encouraged."

Now he is studying at a Bible college. "I plan to give this life that he has given to me back to him," Sie said.

In addition to testimonies, the

day's subtheme, "Living Christ Amidst Many Religions," was developed by speakers and in seminars. In all of Asia, Christians represent a small percentage of the total population.

The result? "We are a minority religion," said Stephen Gonsalvas of India in a workshop. He warned that the sense of being a minority can be negative . "We can come to feel we are a minority spiritually," he said .

Without reason. In India, for example, Christians are known for operating some of the best hospitals and schools in the country. Many of these were established by missionaries.

But the contributions of Christian mission in India have also created problems for the national church, said Soman Das in a seminar on the topic. " Many Hindus and Muslims in our country today look at Christians as stooges for the West," he said.

This perception-and the fact that the church has received much of its support from abroad in the past-has also created a sense of dependency in the Asian church, Das said

Theologically speaking, this dependency "is totally wrong," said Indonesia's Mesach Krisetya in a morning Bible study. He called for an interdependency of Anabaptists from all continents of the world. "The real church is international," he said.

Krisetya said that for many Anabaptists in Asia today, "to be Christian means to take the risk of being alienated from their own people They become strangers in their own land " For this reason they need contacts with Anabaptists in other continents.

Indeed, the "principalities continue to try to put the church out of business," said Pronoy Sarkar of India in a sermon in the morning service. But, he noted, "no political machine, no self-appointed man can stand in the way of Christ and his church."

In a poignant moment, India Mennonites paid tribute to Karuna Shri Joel, 32-year-old executive secretary ofthe India MB Women's Conference, who died in a traffic accident July 7. A new book of Mennonite Brethren women's sermons, All Are Witnesses, which is dedicated to Joel, was presented to her husband and family by Delores Friesen, Fresno, Calif. , who edited the book.-j. Lorne Peachey and Paul Schrag

AFRICA DAY/ JAN.10

A shining witness

" T T IS INTERESTING to note that Wrica is known as a dark continent when it enjoys so much sunshine," mused Joram Mbeba of Tanzania as he introduced the Africa Day emphasis

Mbeba may have been referring mostly to weather conditions when he said it, but the African delegation brightened the week's programming with a blaze of enthusiasm, joy and insight.

Shining brightest of all was the rhythm and spirit of Esengo, the Mennonite Brethren choir from Zaire Their singing and movement energized an entire delegation, leaving some, by day's end, literally dancing in the aisles.

But Africa, a volatile continent with a dynamic church, contributed more than music. During seminar sessions, Bedru Hussein of Ethiopia explained to a roomful of captivated Caucasians how the Miserete Kristos Church grew from 5,000 members when it was forced by a Marxist regime to go underground in 1982, to 50,000 mem-

MB IMPRESSIONS

What is your highlight

from Assembly Gathered?

ELVERA & HENRY SCHMIDT, Fresno, Calif. ELVERA : "A highlight was to go into the Global Church Village and see people from all over the world participating in the presentations. It was exciting and refreshing to see the effort they had made and also to see the various crafts that have been made in different countries "

HENRY : "A highlight for me has been learning to know a whole new family of people in terms of

bers when it reemerged 10 years later. Today, membership is 104,000.

In another seminar, Nzash Lumeya of Zaire pled passionately for keeping evangelism and social ministries together. In his country, caught in the grip of political oppression, social unrest and disease, the church has experienced significant growth and impact

Both men also served as plenary speakers, addressing the day's theme, "Christ the Same, Yesterday, Today and Forever."

In his morning message, Hussein warned listeners not to depend on human institutions and endeavors because, as an old African saying says, "This too shall pass away."

"Eventually, the world that we live in will crumble and only God's kingdom will last, " Hussein said.

Lumeya, in his midmorning Bible study, called for increased cooperation among local churches, nations, and Mennonite groups, especially in the face of pressing human need.

"Can Mennonites, Mennonite Brethren and Brethren in Christ work together in Africa?" he asked "Can we take the risk of putting our resources together?"

During the climatic evening ser-

personal relationships and mission And to sense, for example, the excitement of the church in Ethiopia, where growth comes out of great suffering and opposition To see that kind of explosive growth is just refreshing and a wonderful modeL"

VIDYARANJANI & SWARAJ

KUMAR SOLOMON, Wanaparthy, India.

VIDYARANJANI: "I think I'm in heaven by seeing people from all the continents in one place. I am really enjoying it a lot. I already miss the people We will say good bye and I don't know when I will meet them again "

SWARAJ : "In India there are so

vice, Enoch Shamapani of Zambia challenged Mennonites to personal holiness. "When we say 'Jesus, yesterday, today and forever ,' we must also walk the way Jesus walked," he said.

The African delegation capped the evening with a group chorus, followed by a post-adjournment mini concert by Esengo. A remnant of 100 or so delegates of all ages, backgrounds and nationalities moved with uninhibited joy and celebration as the day drew to a close.-Don Ratzlaff

LATIN AMERICA DAY/JAN.11

Faithful unto death

" DESIST AND Be Faithful in a Con1'-tinent of Suffering and Hope" was the subtheme for Latin America Day. It's also a way of life for the church there.

"By faith some Christians have chosen to denounce the injustice of their government , " said Elizabeth Soto of Puerto Rico during her morning sermon.

For that some have died. She remembered Jose Chuquin, a Colombian member of Mennonite World Conference's executive committee,

many poor people They can't go even from one town to another town So, if you put this conference in Africa or America somewhere, these Indian people won't come, not even 10 people. It's a very great opportunity for us to attend this meeting. I can't say I will go to the next conference because we are poor. So I'm very glad to be here at this conference "

ELSIE ANN & WERNER

KROEKER, Reedley, Calif. ELSIE ANN : "We worked a lot with the Mennonite World Conference staff ahead of time Every time something crucial came up , they said,

'Let's wait for the Holy Spirit.' It was a great staff to work with."

WERNER: "I've enjoyed some of the worship services-the color, the pageantry of it. Some very profound messages have helped us to understand what the Spirit is saying to the churches. That includes our own North American church, but also the Indian church and the world Anabaptist church "

GURUGULLA RUFUS, Hyderabad, India "It so wonderful to have this

Afternoon tours gave delegates a chance to explore Calcutta. ABOVE: Ron Braun (left), Newton, Kan., gathers with others for a visit to Nieco Park, an amusement area for adults and children. RIGHT: When a power failure interrupted a tram tour of Calcutta for about 90 minutes, Elmer Martens and Marvin Hein, both of Fresno, Calif., used the opportunity to in"vest" some rupees in Calcutta apparel.

who was gunned down by guerrillas shortly after MWC's 1990 assembly.

Christian resistance has been the witness of the suffering church . "Resistance means disobedience," said Soto, noting that in the Old Testament, Moses' mother and sister chose to resist Pharaoh's law and keep the future deliverer alive.

"Today, in Latin America, there are thousands of Christians-lay people, pastors, church leaders, promoters of the word, nuns and priests-that have been tortured and martyred for resist-

ing and saying no to the economic, political and military laws that kill life," Soto said.

Peter Stucky of Colombia elaborated on that theme during his evening sermon. "I come from a country that is apparently coming apart at the seams," he told the audience.

Stucky said violent deaths in Colombia are three times higher than the country in the world in second place. "In two years, we lose more people to violent deaths than u.S. soldiers were killed in all the years of the

Vietnam War," he said. "And we have by far the highest kidnaping rate in the world."

Currently there is a hit list circulating in Bogota of "persons from various organizations slated to be eliminated," Stucky said. "We don ' t know yet if there are Mennonite names on that list but we are on the alert "

How does one maintain hope in this kind of situation? Through the solidarity of the community of faith, Stucky said. He illustrated with the story of conference in India because we are so scattered across so many states in India. This is a great opportunity, to be with so many kinds of people, so many colors, so many minds, so many dress styles. I learned so much culturally and spiritually from these people."

CAROLYN & FLOYD

WINTER, Hillsboro, Kan.

CAROLYN: "I was impressed by the sermon by Enoch Shamapani from Zambia He really challenged us to not be of this world, but to look forward to flying in the heavens

with the eagles " FLOYD: "I've enjoyed how the different groups have been able to come together, how the translators have been able to communicate the spirit of a message, and not just the words. Also, the music from Africa has been terrific."

HAROLD ENS, Fresno, Calif.

"This assembly has truly captured the essence of the global Anabaptist church. It's not North American dominated. It's not European dominated. It's now mostly in the two -thirds world. It's been

an exciting time."

RON MATHIES, Akron, Pa.

"For me, the Indian presence here has been a dramatic one. I think after we have evaluated what has happened here, I would like to hear from our Indian sisters and brothers what they have made of this event."

NZASH LUMEYA, Kinshasa, Zaire "I am impressed by the willingness of leaders to get together Yesterday evening I prayed with a couple of leaders, asking the Lord to heal us physically, but also to heal us of narrow mindedness in order to get together and

listen to what the Spirit is saying A lot of people are ready to take risks and do new things as Mennonites "

LORETTA SNIDER, Kitchener, Onto "To walk the streets of Calcutta is to be dislodged from the centerphysically, emotionally and spiritually This gathering has provided the impetus for me to cultivate and maintain my spiritual center, so I can live, love and provide color in my God-given sphere "

- compiled by Don Ratzlaff

Manuel, a poor farmer of northern Colombia who fled to Bogota to escape a paramilitary group in his town. When he and his extended family of 12 needed a place to stay, it was a "very poor woman" of the local Mennonite church who offered them "spare space" in the small house that she shares with her son . Manuel's life is still in danger. Recently a $3,000 reward was offered by his adversaries for information regarding his whereabouts.

Said Stucky, "I asked Manuel, ' Where have you found strength to face this problem?' He answered, 'The strength I have found has been in the Mennonite church.'"

Stucky noted : "As long as there is local Christian solidarity like this, and international solidarity like Mennonite Central Committee's , who has offered to help Manuel leave the country, there is hope." -J Lome Peachey

WORLD DAY/ JAN.12

Sent out to serve

F THE SPIRIT was speaking to the churches at Calcutta, the job of those who addressed the Sunday mOrning worship service was to sum up what it had said.

Their consensus seemed to be that one message from the Spirit was : The non-Western churches have come of

age. Learn from them.

"Yes, we are young, " said Charles Christano of Indonesia, a former Mennonite World Conference president, in his closing sermon "We are weak. We are poor . But the Lord of the church says we are great."

It might be time to turn the missionary tradition around, Christano said "Might it be time for those of us in the emerging churches to go to the West and the North?" he asked Myron Augsburger, a u.S. Mennonite evangelist, was one of two speakers assigned to tell what they thought the Spirit had said. His list of messages from the Spirit included evangelism"go into a world of many cultures and religions and lift Jesus higher" -and mutuality and equality.

"I believe the vitality of the church has shifted from the West to the East," Augsburger said. "We need you to help keep us from losing our souls We are now a global community."

The other speaker asked to discern the Spirit's message was Doris Dube of Zimbabwe. She said the words heard at the conference needed to bear fruit in action

She also praised the conference's unity and fellowship . "When it has been impossible to talk, we have shared the language of love," she said "In our hearts we have been united "

Larry Miller, MWC executive secre· tary, read a "Letter from Calcutta"

approved by the MWC executive committee and addressed to Anabaptist congregations around the world.

Among its statements: "We have witnessed rich variety represented by more than 4,000 persons with many tribes, languages and cultures. We treasure our differences. May God's creative beauty shine through the patterns, colors and traditions enlivening our assembly, which for the first time had more brown faces than white.

"We have felt divisions and broken relationships that mar our fellowship. Let us turn from our arrogant claims to position and power, letting the mind of the Suffering Servant be our pattern . Let us be reconciled so that with integrity we may be ministers of reconciliation through Christ ' s love, the world's hope.

"Let us live our faith in a way that pervades all of life Let us be brave enough to live our faith so that we may be brave enough to suffer for our faith "

The conference concluded with communion. Leading in the serving of the bread and cup were the outgoing MWC president, Raul Garcia of Argentina; and the incoming president, Mesach Krisetya of Indonesia.Paul Schrag

Next month: Assembly Scattered Meeting the MB Church of India

Native crafts and games were demonstrated in the Global Church Village. LEFT: An artisan associated with one of India's self-help organizations carves a dotara, a native musical instrument. RIGHT: Indian young people demonstrate a game of carrom.

ICOMB restructuring may

lead to stronger international ties

• World MB leaders discuss future prior to MWC assembly

T EADERS of the 17 national Men-

and Reuben Pauls of Canada will serve as treasurer.

Support was strong that ICOMB ' s role be to facilitate communication and provide a framework for addressing mutual concerns, such as Confession of Faith issues , leadership training, evangelism, church planting and pastor-church relationships.

The group strongly afftrmed a 10Ln onite Brethren conferences year plan of visits to several national recently voted to restructure the conferences, including some regional International Committee of Menno- consultations. In 1998, ICOMB has nite Brethren (ICOMB) in a move that been invited to meet in Kinshasa, could set the stage for a new level of Zaire . A global consultation is schedinternational cooperation . uled for July 1999. Tentative plans are

Under the new structure, each of to hold the consultation in Kansas in the national conferences will be rep- conjunction with the General Conferresented on ICOMB ICOMB had been ence convention. operating with regional representa-

"There is eager anticipation on the tives: two representatives from Asia, part of our newer conferences to

have the opportunity for fel"It is obvious that the lowship with other MB leaders, " Janzen said. leaders in

center of gravity has shifted. Vision and passion are clearly found with our brothers and sisters in Africa, Asia and

countries experiencing adverse economic or unstable political circumstances enjoy the opportunity for mutual encouragement provided by ICOMB, he added . A major grant from the Kroeker Foundation of Manitoba is making it possible for ICOMB to develop a video Latin America." during 1997. The video is

being produced in Paraguay in latin America and North America, and six languages. It is hoped that this will one each from Mrica and Europe. help build a global Mennonite

Thirty-six leaders attended the Jan Brethren identity 5 meeting which was held in Calcutta, "We Americans and Canadians India, prior to Mennonite World Con- were clearly in the minority among ference . Discussions were translated the 36 people present, " Janzen said. into several languages, including "It is obvious that the center of graviFrench, Spanish, German and Telegu. ty has shifted . Vision and passion are Agenda items had been submitted to clearly found with our brothers and each of the national conferences for sisters in Mrica, Asia and latin Americonsideration several months prior to the meeting.

Funding issues were also addressed. It was agreed that each national conference will forward 1 percent of its annual income to ICOMB . Edmund Janzen, ICOMB vice chair from Fresno, Calif., said the plan was devised "in order to create ownership and a just and equitable partnership" among participating conferences . Takashi Manabe of Japan was elected the new ICOMB chairman. Ernesto Wiens of Brazil will serve as secretary

ca."

Pastor Masolo Manunga of Zaire told how his conference has sent medical personnel and evangelists to Bukavu in rebel-held Eastern Zaire to minister to the thousands of Hutu and Tutsi refugees caught in the civil strife there. The effort has already resulted in the birth of a church in Bukavu. "Out of poverty and suffering, our Zairian brothers and sisters have risen to the challenge of meeting the needs of others," Janzen said "They model well the loving service of Jesus "from a report by Edmund Janzen

IN BRIEF

• ADDITIONS: Mission USA, the new national renewal and evangelism ministry of the U.S. Conference, will also have a new logo (pictured above). Ed Boschman, Mission USA executive director, also reports that God has provided affordable office space and an office worker The MUSA office is located at 12630 N. 103rd Ave., Suite 215, in Sun City, Ariz. Shirley Nachtigall will serve as secretary Monday through Thursday. Nachtigall and her husband, Dale, also moved to Phoenix this summer. The Nachtigalis and Boschmans became acquainted in San Jose, Ca l if., about 20 years ago (MUSA)

• RESIGNED: Don Wohlgemuth, MB Biblical Seminary development director since August 1995, has resigned his position immediately, citing personal reasons. Wohlgemuth was hired jointly by MBSS and the U.S. Conference to promote seminary giving in the United States. (MBBS)

• RENAMED: Fresno Pacific College officially became Fresno Pacific University in a celebration Jan. 11. Words of congratulations were offered by Henry H. Dick, district minister for the Pacific District Conference; Sarah Steckling, student body president; Eugene Enns, board chair; and Jim Patterson, Fresno city mayor. Patterson declared Jan. 11 to be "Fresno Pacific University Day" in Fresno. (FPU)

• APPOINTED: Doug Liechty Caskey, professor of theater at Fresno (Calif.) Pacific University, has been appointed chair of the theater division of the Speech Communication Association, a national organization of about 10,000 communication educators and scholars. (FPU)

Edmund Janzen

IN BRIEF

• HISTORICAL: A Mennonite history conference hosted by the Center for MB Studies at Tabor College in Hillsboro, Kan., April 25-26, will celebrate the completion of "The Mennonite Experience in America," a four-v?lume history series All four authors will participate as conference speakers: Richard MacMaster, Theron Schlabach, James Juhnke and Paul Toews. Toews, professor of history at Fresno (Calif.) Pacific University and director of FPU's Center for MB Studies, wrote the final volume of the series It was published in November by Herald Press. Other wi 1I also participate in the event, which IS cohosted by the Mennonite Library and Archives at Bethel College in North Newton, Kan. (rC)

KEYNOTER: AI Dueck, psychological consultant for international mission workers and professor of pastoral counseling at MB Biblical Seminary, Fresno, Calif., will be the keynote presenter at the Council of International Ministries annual consultation Feb 2223, at Techny, III., near Chicago. year's consultation focuses on c?nng for mission workers in international settings and will be followed business meetings OM is an association of Mennonite agencies for international missions and development . (OM)

CLEANUP: Mennonite Disaster Service is investigating flooded areas in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Nevada and California. The floods were caused by heavy rains around Christmas, followed by a sudden rise in temperatures that melted the Sierra Nevada's snowpack MDS has established a ject office in Yuba City, Calif., and Wi ll likely set up response units in other locations. Volunteers for the Yuba clean -up can contact the Yuba office at (916) 671 -5677 Early reports 25000 houses were damaged; this may triple as the situation unfolds. Cleanup may take two months and house repairs will be made through the spring and summer. MDS is urgently appealing for cleanup funds . Contributions designated for "Western Floods" can be mailed to P O Box 500, Akron, PA 17501. (MDS)

Hope has a face for MCC India in Calcutta

• Rose Chater thanks God, MCC for the opportunity to work

THE MIMSTRY of Mennonite Central Committee in Calcutta is more than the sum of its personnel and programs . It has a face . A smiling one .

That face belongs to Rose Chater, whose 29-year relationship with MCC India is a testimony of hope, perseverance and inspiration in a city that cries for it.

She lived in the slums with 10 children and a husband who was employed but supported a lifestyle drinking and gambling instead of his family. When he was home , he sometimes beat her.

Desperate to feed her children, Rose scoured the area for a job, any job. On a rare day, she might clean an entire house in exchange for one plateful of food . Her children were starving

When she heard about the MCC office she came seeking a job. Staff could' not accommodate her immediately, but offered food for her children. She refused it.

"I came there to ask for work, n she says. "I did not come to ask for help. Maybe it was foolish pride. But I wanted to set an example for my children."

In time, MCC hired Rose to clean, wash dishes, shop and perform other sundry tasks in the office. Along the way, she found a new family. The family of God.

"I came to know many people here personally, n Rose says. "We became one big family ."

Today, Rose's children are grown, educated and employed. She officially retired two years ago, but still comes around to help out. That's what family does.

"I have so much to thank God for, " she says. "When I look back now, it feels like a miracle. To come from out of a dirty world to where we are today. We had so much help from MCC and the many people God has sent to our part of the world ."

While Rose Chater's story is moving, it is not uncommon , says Stephen Gonsalves, who directs the work of MCC India from Calcutta. "We can tell you many stories like Rose's. "

MCC entered India in 1942 in response to an artificial fan.une cause? by war. Relief work contmued untll 1959, when the emphasis was shifted toward development and helping people-like Rose-help themselves.

In the 1980s, MCC moved into what Gonsalves calls "partnership development. n Rather than enlarge its own program, MCC channels resources through about 100 partner organizations in eastern, southern and central India, including Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity and the Mennonite Christian Service Fellowship of India

The MCC headquarters, an oasis of cleanliness and simple beauty in a forlorn neighborhood of Calcutta, stands as a candle of hope where the immensity of the need can darken anyone's optimism

But the staff of 30 indigenous volunteers is undeterred. They know the source of hope.

"Our greatest resource is not our material strength, n says Gonsalves "It is our spiritual strength. We begin each day with devotions. We remember who we are. We sing. We pray And then we go out to do our work. "

Rose Chater serves tea to vistors at MCC's -Don Ratzlaff Calcutta headquarters.

Vernon Wiebe remembered as a visionary servant

• Death claims veteran conference leader at age 70

VERNON R. WIEBE was remembered as a visionary servant of the church at a memorial service held Jan. 31 in the Hillsboro (Kan.) MB Church.

Wiebe Wiebe, 70, died Jan. 28 He had been battling lymphoma since November 1995. Born Nov 7, 1926, in Com, Okla., Wiebe devoted his life to the church and to his family. From 1952-65, he served Tabor College in a variety of capacities, including physical education instructor, coach, athletic director, fund raiser, and dean of students. He was interim president during the 1987-88 academic year.

After serving as pastor of the Edmond (Okla.) MB Church from 1965 until 1968, Wiebe accepted an invitation from the board of MB Mission/Services to serve as general secretary, based in Hillsboro Until his retirement in 1982 at age 55, Wiebe traveled around the world visiting, encouraging and mentoring Mennonite Brethren missionaries.

Wiebe was elected chair of the U.S. Conference in 1977. At the time, the conference was facing a fmancial crisis. Under his leadership, financial health was restored through staffmg cuts and the sale of conference assets. He promoted a "strong but simple" conference structure that has continued until the present.

Wiebe also served the inter-Mennonite community as chair of Prairie View, a mental health agency in Newton, Kan., and the Mennonite Weekry Review, an inter-Mennonite newspaper. He also served on the executive committee of Mennonite Central Committee and the Tabor College Board of Directors. He founded the Kansas 500 Mennonite Men's Chorus in 1969 His concern for Old Colony Mennonites in Mexico prompted him

recently to form a business to publish materials in Low German.

Wiebe and his wife, Rubena, opened a Hillsboro-based tour company in 1983 called Prudent Tours. Wiebe was committed to Hillsboro's business community and initiated severallocal festivals.

"We know no one can fill his shoes, either literally or figuratively," said Dennis Fast, present U.S. Conference chair and pastor of the Hillsboro MB Church Wiebe was well-known for his size 16 feet "But we do pray that others with vision and commitment will rise up and follow his example of service. "

Visalia congregation finds room at the Inn

• Church meets in a local hotel during its building program

NEIGHBORHOOD Church in Visalia, Calif., has checked into the Holiday Inn for every Sunday this year.

The church, which sold its Walnut Avenue complex to another congregation, is building a facility to accommodate its growing membership.

But until then, they're meeting at the Holiday Inn in convention rooms.

Four-and-a-half years ago, the church had about 425 members. Now about 650 to 700 attend services. The old building, which had housed the church since 1965, seated 400, says pastor Chuck Buller. But the convention rooms at the Holiday Inn "can go up over a thousand," he says.

Church leaders decided to opt for the hotel instead of a school or community center-typical places leased by churches with no permanent homes-because the Holiday Inn convention rooms' monthly cost was about $900 cheaper, says Chris Walsh, associate pastor of family ministries.

The hotel offered its 10 convention rooms and lounge room at about a third of the normal cost, Walsh says.

Neighborhood Church members plan to hold services there for about a year to give themselves time to build their new church

Holding services in a hotel will give travelers a chance to worship on Sun-

days, church members said . Buller hopes their current hotel location will attract people who no longer attend church.

"It's just an opportunity for them to come and join us," says children'S ministry worker Kelly Coughlin .

And unlike real estate, location isn't that important when it comes to worship, says 20-year church member Marvin Penner.

"You meet God right where he is," he says. "In your heart. "

Neighborhood's new facility will be located at Riggen Avenue and Akers Road in Visalia.-from a report by Visalia Times-Delta writer Brett Tam

. CHURCH NOTES

• Baptism/Membership

LODI, Calif. (Vinewood)-Several high school youth were baptized Nov. 10 and welcomed into membership: Lisa Cunninham, Jennifer Holley, Roxanne Holley, Sarah Hudson, Chris Lott, Alissa Robison, Jenny Scott and Franse Volkett.

SALEM, Ore. (Kingwood)-Bob Allen and Ruth Willems were recently accepted into membership.

ORLAND, Calif. (Country Bible)-Bruce and Rachel Beauchamp were baptized Dec. 1 and accepted as members Dec. 8.

BUHLER, Kan.-Bo and Alisa Muir and Melinda Renner were baptized and accepted into membership Dec. 29. Chris Cheesman, Gene and LaDonna Stoltzfus and Bob and Kelly Pankratz were welcomed into membership.

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (Heritage)-The congregation welcomed Dwight and Jenifer Blanton, George,Wanda, Levi and Kevin Dickey, Richard and Shelly Hillard, Wes and Karl Neal, Brent and Terri Needham, Richard and Loretta Peters, Marty and Lenee Taylor, Richard and Mona Vipham, and Rob and Gayle Yraceburu into membership Jan. 5.

• Celebrations

ENID, Olda.-The congregation will celebrate its 100th anniversary April 13 with Henry Schmidt, MB Biblical Seminary president, as the special speaker.

DINUBA, Calif.-The congregation celebrated 50 years of broadcasting Sunday morning worship services over station KRDU . The worship service Jan . 5 included a history of the broadcast, interviews

and letters from listeners. Dec. 29 marked the 2,600th consecutive weekly broadcast of the morning service.

• Fellowship

HENDERSON, Neb.-The men met Jan. 8 and 15 for an evening of friendly volleyball competition

• Ministry

BELLINGHAM, Wash. (Community Bible)-Pastor Steve Schroeder was invited by Mennonite Central Committee to join six others from the West Coast on a study tour going to Central America Jan. 31-Feb. 15. The group, led by MCC worker Susan Classen, visited Guatemala and Nicaragua. The purpose of the tour includes introducing participants to MCC workers and programs, learning about the social and economic situations in Central America and meeting Christian brothers and sisters from another part of the world.

BRIDGEWATER, S.D. (Salem)-The congregation collected blankets for Mennonite Central Committee during December.

SALEM, Ore. (Kingwood)-Several people from the congregation participated in

"Heaven's Gates , Hell's Flames," a citywide evangelistic drama production that resulted in more than 1,500 decisions for Christ

DINUBA, Calif.-Forty individuals helped in the city-wide distribution of the "Jesus" video in November. During January, teams did follow-up surveys with households that accepted the video. More than 2,220 copies were distributed A missions outreach to families living in southeast Dinuba is planned for March 23-26 in cooperation with Templo Calvario, the Mennonite Brethren hispanic congregation in Dinuba

• Proclamation

SHAFTER, Calif.-MB Missions/Services workers Jeff and Teri Prather shared about their ministry in Peru Jan. 12

FREEMAN, S.D. (Salem)-The congregation observed "Library Sunday" Jan. 19. The morning service included several book reports. A browsing table was available after the service and people could purchase books for the church library

WEATHERFORD, Okla. (Pine Acres)Worship revival services are planned for Feb. 16-17 with Tony Cannon. The three

services will include worship and learning more about worship.

HESSTON, Kan.- Mark Isaac, pastor of the Parkside MB Church in Tulsa, Okla., will be the guest speaker for spiritual emphasis services March 1-2 .

• Teaching/nurture

LITTLETON, Colo. (Belleview Acres)One of the congregation's adult Sunday school classes is focusing on contemporary issues or needs in the church during January, February and March. The class is taught by faculty from Denver Seminary. Leaders included pastor Gary Newton (inductive Bible study), president emeritus Vernon Grounds (healthy families) and Naomi Penner Thiessen (suffering)

• Workers

ULYSSES, Kan.-Loyal Martin has accepted the call to serve as pastor He and Rosella began their ministry Feb. 1.

EUGENE, Ore. (North Park)-Randy Friesen has accepted the call to serve the congregation as pastor. He and Stacy and their two children will begin in July

HILLSBORO, Kan.-Nadine Friesen, coordinator of discipleship ministries, is on an enrichment leave Jan. 1 to May 31 During her sabbatical, Friesen is teaching parttime at Tabor College and pursuing various projects.

LAWTON, Okla. (Faith Bible)-Pastor Paul Zoschke spent two weeks during January teaching at a Bible school in Russia.

BUHLER, Kan.-Valerie Rempel was commissioned for ministry at MB Biblical Seminary Jan. 19 Rempel is in her first year as professor of church history and theology

A Reluctant Surgeon

by

Herb Friesen,

M.D .

"Reflections of a farm boy turned ophthalmologist."

Cost: $14 (incl. shipping).

Order from:

• Better Book Room, Wichita, KS 1-800-678-6119

• Faith & Life Bookstore, Newton, KS 1-800-743-2484 (or) 1-800-646-2710 in 316 area

• The Bookstore, Hillsboro, KS 316-947-3969

• Herb Friesen, 501 S. Wilson, Hillsboro, KS 67063

Make a New Year's Commitment to Your Pastor: Pray for Him Every Dayl

In an open letter from a pastor, this is what he says about the necessity of being up held daily in prayer by his congregation. Could this be your pastor?

As I prayed for you today I wondered if you were also praying for me. When you demonstrate your enthusiasm and participation in fulfilling the purpose of the church, I am confident that you are praying for me and the ministry we share. If I detect apathy and distance, I sometimes begin to wonder This letter is to let you know what's on my heart and how you can pray for me.

Pray that I will follow the example of Christ in loving and serving you as well as teaching and training you for your ministry. The magnitude of the Great Commission and the Great Commandment convicts me that we are all called to be the ministers of this church. Pray that God will give me wisdom to know where to put my energies. I want to choose to do what is best rather than what is convenient or merely urgent. When I am tempted to preach i1 people I need to be reminded that I must preach from my heart instead of from a pedestal.

It is important that I keep the right perspective and not take people's actions and words personally Pray that I might love people where they are, instead of waiting until they're where I think they should be. Ask God to cause me to grow personally. When my private devotions spin off into sermons in my head I need the discipline that brings the time back to just God and me. When my thoughts stray during my study time I need to focus on my task. Pray that I assume the position of spiritual leadership in my home. I need God to teach me how to love my wife and children and to make me sensitive to their needs.

Pray for protection in general. I face temptations common to all of us, and on occasion, I face those who seek to intentionally harm the cause of Christ. Because I am human and weak I must depend on God's strength and provision. I need fellow believers of integrity who will hold me accountable and wise counselors who will walk alongside me.

My office and telephone line are always open for prayer time. Let us pray for each other that together we may accomplish God's purpose for this church!

Mission USA recognizes that to reach our nation with the gospel 01 Jesus Christ, L_ _ the leaders 01 our churches need to 6e surrounded with praying congregations. Ask your pastor on a "gular 6asis: ULet me know what's on your heart anti how I can

MISSION USA BOARD

Ed Boschmoo, Phoenix, AI.

Exerutive Director

Chuck Buller, Visalia, CA

Mdte Sdluil, Wey, CA

Fred Leonard, Oovis, CA

Trm Sullivan, Hilkboro, KS

Neil DeFeh r, Fresno, CA

Loretto Jost, Auroro, NE

Clarke Rempel, Buhler, KS

Randy Steinert, Bakersfield, CA

Clint Seibel, Hillsboro, KS

Jim Weems, Gettysburg, SO

&nieFriesen, Wichita, KS

Howard loewen, Fresno, CA

nm Geddert, Fresno, CA

Rick Eschbough, Topeka, KS

Ex Officio Members: Henry Dick, Fresno, CA

Clinton Grenz, Bismark, NO

Roland Reimer, WIChita, KS

. DEATHS

BATHAUER, ANDREW JR., Reedley, Calif , was born April 13, 1908, to Andrew and Pauline Bathauer at Herington, Kan., and died Nov. 23, 1996, at the age of 88 . On April 24, 1930, he was married to Agnes Wiens, who survives. He is also survived by four daughters, LaVada, Vera, Alvina and Margie; two sons, Ronald and Orlando; 16 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.

BECKER, DEAN, of the Neighborhood Church in Visalia, Calif., was born July 13, 1938, and died Nov. 2, 1996, at the age of 58.

BRAUN, JOHN, Reedley, Calif., a member of the Reedley MB Church, was born Oct 9, 1904, to Isaac and Margaret Heinrichs Braun at Joes, Colo., and died Dec. 30, 1996, at the age of 92 On Dec. 14, 1928, he was married to Agnes Williams, who predeceased him. He is survived by two sons, Donald and wife Joan and Wesley and wife Boots; one daughter, Elaine and husband Carl; seven grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

BRAINERD, KAY THIESSEN, Dinuba, Calif., a member of the Dinuba MB Church, was born Aug. 5, 1910, to George W. and ' Margaret Thiessen at Inman, Kan., and died Nov. 7, 1996, at the age of 86 On Feb. 14, 1968, she was married to Alva H. Brainerd, who

predeceased her in 1980. She is survived by seven sisters, Marie, Helen, Hilda, Edna, Martha, La Varda, and Verna; three brothers , Pete, Leonard and George; and many nieces and nephews.

BULLER, MINNIE, Bakersfield, Calif., a member of the Shafter MB Church, was born Sept . 24, 1901, to Peter and Sarah Reimer at Shelley, Okla., and died Nov. 30, 1996, at the age of 95. On Sept 7, 1927, she was married to John Buller, who predeceased her in 1972 . She is survived by four sons, Kenneth and Stanley of Bakersfield, Norman of Burbank, Calif., and Roger of Wasco, Calif.; 11 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren

COLE, WILUAMW. "JACK," Owasso, Okla., a member of the Westport MB Church in Collinsville, Okla., was born Aug . 3, 1909, to Will and Rosa Cole at Exeter, Mo , and died Nov. 2, 1996, at the age of 87. In 1928, he was married to Laura Noe, who predeceased him in 1972. On Feb 14, 1976, he was married to Willa Mae Cooper, who survives. He is also survived by two daughters, Margaret McArthur of Tulsa, Okla. and Betty BalfourGrice of Norman, Okla.; three step-sons; nine grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

EPP, ABEJ., Buhler, Kan , a member of the Buhler MB Church, was born Nov 11, 1916, to Ben J. and Anna Nickel Epp near Buhler,

A Motion of Thanks From the Tabor College Board of Directors

The Board of directors of Tabor College publicly acknowledges the leading of God in the successful completion of the capital campaign for the Solomon L. Loewen Natural Science Center.

That we also give thanks to President David Brandt, Vice President for Advancement Jack Braun, and Campaign Director Don Brubacher, and the capital campaign staff for their professional ability to manage the campaign to an early completion, exceeding the goal.

That we thank support personnel and donors, especially the Mabee Foundation, Tulsa, Okla., for their involvement.

That these distinct blessings from God be communicated to the churches and the conference news media.

and died Dec. 24, 1996, at the age of 80 On May 23, 1943, he was married to Roselie Wiens, who survives. He is also survived by one son, Paul and wife Kathy of Hillsboro, Kan.; one daughter, Rosemary Balzer of Buhler; one foster daughter, Lillian Yokesuite; one sister, Esther Adamson of Edmund, Okla.; one brother, Ernest G. of Oklahoma City; six grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, two foster grandchildren and two foster great-grandchildren.

FAST, JACOB "JAKE" H., Fairview, Okla., a member of the Fairview MB Church, was born Feb. 1, 1905, to Henry G. and Maria Janzen Fast near Fairview, and died Dec. 30, 1996, at the age of 91. On Sept. 15, 1929, he was married to Martha Flaming, who survives. He is also survived by two daughters, June and husband Walter Bartel, and Joyce and husband Don Martens, both of Fairview; one son, Larry and wife Anne of Fairview; seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

FAUL, ROBERT, Martin, N.D., a member of the Harvey (ND) Mennonite Brethren Church, was born June 22, 1927, to Charlie and Caroline Faul near Martin, and died Jan 8, 1997, at the age of 69. On Oct. 16, 1953, he was married to Bernice Heizelman, who survives. He is also survived by four brothers, Tony and leRoy of Harvey, John of Denver, Colo., and Bennie of Kenya, Africa; six sisters, Loretta Reiswig, Helen Fadenrecht and Alyce Loewen of Hillsboro, Kan , Linda Leibelt of Sawyer, N.D., Carolyn Klein of Munich, N.D., and JoAnn Isaak of Greenville, S.c.

FElL, LAVINA, San Jose, Calif., was born Feb 16, 1920, to Abraham and Anna Neufeld at Hutchinson, Kan., and died Nov 8, 1996, at the age of 76. On Nov. 22, 1940, she was married to Wallace. She is survived by two sons, Gary and Daryl; one daughter, Janet ; and six grandchildren.

FOOTE, MARTIIA, Com, Okla , a member of the Corn MB Church, was born Nov. 1, 1910, to Henry and Pauline Block Foote near Bessie, Okla ., and died Jan. 1, 1997, at the age of 87 She is survived by one brother, Albert; one sister-in-law, Mathilda Foote; and many nieces and nephews.

FRIESEN, BLONDINA "BLANCHE," Mountain Lake, Minn., a member of the Carson MB Church, was born Nov. 18, 1918, to John J. and Sarah Balzer Wiens at Delft, Minn., and died Nov. 5, 1996, at the age of 77. On Sept. 5, 1939, she was married to John V Friesen, who predeceased her in 1971. She is survived by two sons, LeRoy and wife Sharryl Lindberg of Washington, D C., and Berry and wife Sharon of Lancaster , Pa ; one daughterin-law, Mary Friesen of Minneapolis, Minn.; two sisters, Charlotte and husband Clarence Prokop of St. Paul, Minn., and Marcella and husband Norm Siegwarth of Dubuque, Iowa; two brothers, Arnold and his wife Barbara

Wiens of Mankato, Minn., and Ed and wife Becky Wiens of Las Vegas, Nev ; seven grand· children and one great-grandchild.

FRIESEN, TINA C. HARMS, Dinuba, Calif , a member of the Dinuba MB Church, was born Feb 4, 1914, to Cornelius C. and Anna Quiring Harms at Reedley, Calif., and died Aug. 19 , 1996, at the age of 92. On March 21, 1942, she was married to David J. Friesen, who predeceased her in 1989 She is survived by four sons, Clifford and wife Nancy, Vernon and wife Jeanette, Paul and wife Jean, and John; two daughters, Nancy and husband Leon Lewis and Ruth and husband Tony Calip; four sisters, Anna Unruh, Sarah Friesen, Helen and Susie Harms; one brother, Pete Harms; 11 grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren

FUNK, SARA, Goessel, Kan., a member of the Hillsboro MB Church , was born Sept. 11, 1906, to John D. and Susanna Schroeder Hiebert at Goessel, Kan ., and died Jan 20, 1997, at the age of 90. On Aug. 20,1936, she was married to Otto Funk, who predeceased her in 1986. She is survived by two sons, Raymond and wife Donita of Edmond, Okla and John of Orangeburg, N.Y ; one sister, Elizabeth (Betty) Plett of Dallas, Texas; and two grandsons.

HEIDEBRECHT, ALLEN B., Bethany, Okla., a member of the Western Oaks MB Church in Bethany, was born Jan 5, 1920, to Carl D. and Tena Heidebrecht, and died Nov 4, 1996, at the age of 76 On Dec 18, 1945, he was married to Martha Fischer, who survives. He is also survived by two daughters, Carolyn and husband Mel Helton of Oklahoma City and JoAnn and hsuband David Curry of Muncie, Ind ; one son, Jim and wife Elaine of Oklahoma City; three sisters , Edna Heidebrecht of Corn, Okla., Vera Flaming of Enid, Okla., and Mary Ann Heinrichs of Fresno, Calif.; two brothers, John of Lawton, Okla. and Harry of Madera, Calif ; and five grandchildren

HEINRICHS, DONALD, Garden City, Kan , a member of the Garden Valley Church in Garden City, was born July 8 , 1939, to Daniel and Ruby Just Heinrichs at Collinsville, Okla , and died Nov. 7 , 1996, at the age of 57. On Aug. 10, 1962 , he was married to Sandra K Schafer, who survives. He is also survived by two daughters, Robin Matson of Wichita, Kan , and Bonnie of the home ; his mother, Ruby of Owasso, Okla.; three brothers, Harold of Claremore, Okla , Raymond of Owasso, and LeRoy of Menlo Park, Calif. ; and one sister, Joyce Loewen of Hillsboro, Kan.

JONES, RUBENA SIEMENS, Hillsboro, Kan., a member of the Hillsboro MB Church, was born May 23, 1938, to Abram and Lydia Heinrichs Siemens at Hillsboro, and died Nov 20, 1996, at the age of 58 In May 1978 she was married to Wayne Jones, who predeceased her in 1990. She is survived by one Sister , Rosella and husband Wesley Seibel of Hills-

boro; one brother, Harry and wife Nancy of Fresno, Calif.; one niece and four nephews.

JOST, ALFRED, Hillsboro, Kan , a member of the Hillsboro MB Church, was born June 30, 1904, to John R. and Helena Baerg Jost near Hillsboro , and died Dec. 26, 1996, at the age of 92 On March 25, 1928, he was married to Alma Suderman, who survives. He is also survived by two daughters, Ann and husband Arlo Voth of Whitewater , Kan. and Clara and husband Roy Heppner of New Underwood, S.D.; one son, Gerald and wife Joan of Hillsboro ; one brother , Harold of Hillsboro; five sisters, Kathleen Hiebert of San Jose , Calif. , Margaret Goentzel of Wichita, Kan , Edna Janzen of Newhall, Calif , Melinda Smith of Landsdale, Penn and Ellen Ewy of Reedley, Calif.; nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

JOST, KATHERINE UNGER, Hillsboro, Kan. , a member of the Hillsboro MB Church, was born April 26, 1898, to Peter J. and Kathrina Stelting Unger near Peabody, Kan. , and died Dec 10, 1996, at the age of 98. On May 22, 1922, she was married to Abraham S. Jost, who predeceased her in 1972. She is survived by two daughters , Ruby and husband Elvie Loewen of Chandler, Ariz , and Elma and husband Otto Lohrenz of Kearney, Neb ; six grandsons and nine great-grandchildren

KARBER, JOHN ALVIN, Custer, Wash , a member of the Birch Bay Bible Community Church of the Mennonite Brethren , Blaine , Wash., was born July 13, 1916, to David M. and Anna Kliewer Karber at Boyd , Okla., and died Dec 30, 1996, at the age of 80. On

March 22, 1940, he was married to Mabel Hawkinson, who survives. He is also survived by three sons, John and wife Mary of Bellingham, Wash., Robert and wife Patty of Ferndale, Wash ., and Jerry and wife Sharon of Custer; three daughters, Karen and husband Arvid Diemert of Bothell, Wash., Carolyn and husband Michael Ganzini of Ferndale, Wash , and Lynette and husband Don Pearce of Squamish, Wash ; one sister and three brothers ; 13 grandchildren and one great-grandchild

MIERAU, DAVID J., Reedley, Calif., a member of the Reedley MB Church, was born March 17, 1911, to Jakob and Kathrine Mierau at Paulsheim, Russia, and died Dec. 30, 1996, at the age of 86 On Oct. 25, 1936, he was married to Justina Toews, who predeceased him in 1994 He is survived by two sons, Bob and wife Sandy and Don and wife Beverly; and four grandchildren.

NICKEL, DORIS RUTH, Wasco, Calif., a member of the Shafter (Calif.) MB Church, was born Nov 17, 1922, to John and Elizabeth Funk at Lodi, Calif. , and died Oct. 4, 1996, at the age of 73 On Dec 14, 1941 , she was married to Jonas lloyd Nickel, who predeceased her in 1973. She is survived by a daughter, Karin and husband Marvin Grim of Salinas, Calif.; two sons, Ron and wife Juvelyn of Shafter and Phil and wife Donna of Shafter; three Sisters, Margaret Kugler of San Jose, Calif , Rhoda Hook of Denver, Colo. and Virginia Rosenbaum of Texas; one brother, Wesley Funk of Wasco ; a brother-in-law, John L. Nickel; four grandchildren and five greatgrandchildren

For deloils, call Ran Penner at MBBS: (209) 452·1721, or Roland Reimer, Soulhem District Minister, at (316) 722·B6BO.

The 1997 Midwest School for Ministry

April 2-4, 1991 at Crosswind Conf. Center, Hesston, Kansas

Sponsored by MB Biblical Seminary, the Southern District of MB Churches, Tabar College and the Brethren in Christ.

Brokenness in families today is all too familiar. This conference is dedicated to both "binding up" family wounds, as well as nurturing family weI/ness.

Speakers:

Ed Ashby .... .... .. ....... Des Moines, Iowa

Delores Friesen Fresno, CA

Nadine Friesen ................ Hillsboro, KS

Lynn Jost Hillsboro, KS

Ron Penner .. .................... .. Fresno, CA

Roland and Lois Reimer Wichifo, KS

NICKEL, SUSANNA "SUSIE," Fairview , Okla., a member of the Fairview MB Church, was born March 23, 1900, to John and Susanna Arndt Wichert in Major County, Okla., and died Dec 29, 1996, at the age of 96. On April 22, 1917, she was married to Peter P Nickel, who predeceased her in 1961. She is survived by five sons, Bennie and wife Florence of Carmen , Okla . , Herbert and wife Rose of Ringwood, Okla ., Alfred and wife Wanda of Wagoner, Okla., Eldon and wife

Faith Family Focus

Carol of Aline, Okla and Dean and wife Joyce of Enid, Okla.; two daughters, Marjorie and husband Bud Brewton of Yukon, Okla. and Ruby and husband Lynford Becker of Hillsboro, Kan.; one son-in-law, Eugene Fast and wife Frieda of Fairview; 29 grandchildren, 60 great-grandchildren and 13 great-great-grandchildren

PATZKOWSKY, RICHARD EDWARD, Reedley, Calif., was born Aug . 18, 1934, to Jacob

Mennonite Brethren Core Value Studies

Adult elective units of four lessons that challenge people to re-affirm their commitment to Christ

On the Shoulders of Giants

A Group Study in our Faith Heritage With the Arms of the Father A Group Study in Restoring Relationships A Heart for the World A Group Study in God's Mission Studentrreacher Manual Video Support for all units. Individually priced $3.95 plus shipping

Kindred Productions, the publisher for Resource Ministries of the General Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches 1-800-545-7322 Fax 1-316-947-3266 or call 947-3151

DID YOU KNOW THAT:

- Paraguay has 21 species of parrots and parakeets?

- the first Mennonites (Old Order Canadians) settled in Paraguay in 1926?

- 1997 is the 50 year anniversary of the last refugee settlement in Paraguay?

- Cal Redekop is leading our third tour to Paraguay?

and Tina Patzkowsky at Reedley He is survived by his wife Chris; four sons, Philip, Kevin , Alan and Gregory; and two daughters , Becky Patzkowsky and Marya Amaro.

PLETT, LINDA F., Hillsboro, Kan., of Parkview MB Church of Hillsboro, was born Dec 28, 1915, to Cornelius E. and Elizabeth Fast Plett, and died Oct. 2, 1996, at the age of 95. She is survived by a brother, Andrew; and four sisters, Lydia Balzer, Sara Plett, Esther Yos and Alvina Siebett.

RATZLAFF, ESTHER, Reedley, Calif., was born May 23, 1926, and died Sept 23, 1996, at the age of 70.

REGIER, HERBERT PAUL, Buhler, Kan., a member of the Buhler MB Church, was born June 14, 1909, to Abraham T. and Lizzie Balzer Regier at Hooker, Okla , and died Dec. 16, 1996, at the age of 87. On Aug. 27, 1933, he was married to Anna Plett, who predeceased him in 1984. He is survived by two sons, Paul and wife Carol of Littleton, Colo. and Jim and wife Mary of Hillsboro, Kan. ; one daughter, Joyce and husband Bob Wall of Conway Springs, Kan.; two brothers, Henry of San Jose, Calif. and Wilbert of Buhler; four sisters , Elizabeth Penner of Wichita, Kan. , Bertha Ensz of Buhler, Minnie Siebert of Hutchinson, Kan., and Irene Soyez of Cedar Point, Kan.; five grandchildren and one great-grandson.

REIMER, ALVIN K_, Dinuba, Calif., a member of the Dinuba MB Church, was born July 21, 1905, to Abraham C. and Margaret Kroeker Reimer in Oklahoma, and died Nov. 27, 1996, at the age of 91. On Aug 30, 1931, he was married to Lillie Geis, who survives. He is also survived by a son, Kenneth and wife Carol of Dinuba; two daughters, Anita and husband Don Ens of Reedley, Calif., and Margaret and husband Frank Duerksen of Reedley; two brothers , George "Doc" of Stillwater, Okla. and Nick of Reedley; three sisters , Ann Litke of Reedley, Esther Harder of Kingsburg, Calif., and Margie Leppke of Reedley; eight grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren

RICHERT, MARY UNGER, Hillsboro, Kan., a member of the Hillsboro MB Church, was born Oct . 1, 1901, to Peter]. and Katharine Stelting Unger near Peabody, Kan , and died Nov 18, 1996, at the age of 95. On July 1, 1923, she was married to Herbert C. Richert, who predeceased her in 1993. She is survived by two sons, Herb E. and wife laVerne of Reedley, Calif. and Francis and wife Donna of Lane, Kan.; one daughter, Margret Schmidt of Rogers, Ark.; one sister, Katharine Jost; nine grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

SCHAFFER, EDNA A., Shafter, Calif., a member of the Shafter MB Church, was born March 13, 1915, to George and Anna Welk at Hamilton, Mont , and died Dec. 6, 1996 , at the age of 81. On Nov. 12, 1933, she was married to Isaac Henry Schaffer, who predeceased her in 1987. She is survived by one

son, Carlton and wife Arlene of Ripon, Calif.; three daughters, Janice and husband Arly Feil of Shafter, Norma and husband James Welty of Aptos, Calif., and Chris and husband Stan Jefferson of Santa Cruz, Calif.; a brother, Bill and wife Rubena Hiebert of Orland, Calif.; a sister, Esther and husband Waldo Unruh of Shafter; nine grandchildren and seven greatgrandchildren.

SEIBEL, ELMER, Fort Collins, Colo., a member of the Harvey (N D ) MB Church, was born Aug. 19, 1910, to John C. and Katherina Seibel and died Nov 27, 1996, at the age of 86. He was married to Martha Schimke , who predeceased him in 1996. He is survived by three daughters, Marlene and husband Lowell Ratzlaff of Denver, Colo., Phyllis and husband Dick Peterson of Fort Collins, and Lucinda and husband Gary Schults of Fresno, Calif.; two sisters, Bertha Vix of Minot, N .D ., and Linda Nuts of Harvey; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

STEINERT, MARGARET NICKEL, Bakersfield, Calif., a member of the Heritage Bible Church in Bakersfield, was born Feb 2, 1896, to Marguerite Nickel and her husband at Canton, Kan., and died Nov. 17, 1996, at the age of 100. She was predeceased by her husband Emanuel. She is survived by a son, Marvin and wife Nadene; a daughter, Erma and husband Spud Heinrichs; seven grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and six great-greatgrandchildren.

SUDERMAN, TINA BOLDT, Reedley, Calif., was born March 3, 1891, to Henry J . and Regina Barsch Boldt at Mountain Lake, Minn., and died Dec . 10, 1996, at the age of 105 . On Dec 15, 1918, she was married to Abraham Boldt, who predeceased her She is survived by two sons, Henry and wife Irene of Reedley, and Dan and wife Violet of Mariposa, Calif.; three daughters, Regina Suderman and Susan Reimer of Reedley and Katherine and husband Lawrence Harder of Mountain Lake, Minn ; seventeen grandchildren, twenty-one great-grandchildren and one great-greatgrandchild.

WARKENTINE,}ACOB, MisSion, Texas, was born April 19, 1915, to Frank and Agnes Warkentine at Fairview, Okla., and died Dec 13, 1996, at the age of 81. He was a memberof the New Hope MB Church in Joes, Colo. In 1946, he was married to Martha Fadenrecht, who survives. He is also survived by two sons, Jerry and wife Karleen of McAllen, Texas and James and wife Lilia of Mission ; four brothers, Harry of Fairview, Albert of Joes, Colo., Frank of Bronx, N.Y. and Edward of Fresno, Calif ; three sisters, Goldie Warkentine of Fresno, Sophie Cornelson of Fairview and Viola Shelton of Fairview; and six grandchildren

WIEBE, VERNON R., Hillsboro, Kan . , longtime Mennonite Brethren leader and member of the Hillsboro MB Church, was born Nov. 7, 1926, to Henry and Emma Friesen Wiebe

at Com, Okla ., and died Jan. 28, 1997, at the age of 70 On May 30, 1947, he was married to Rubena Wiens, who survives. He is also survived by one son, Hank and wife Lynn of Hillsboro; daughters, Rose and husband David Haury of Topeka, Kan , Margaret of Hesston, Kan , Rachel and husband Mike Easter of Hesston, Kathy and Duane Loewen of Olathe, Kan., and Karla and Kakim Kunantaev of Hillsboro; two sisters, Elda and husband Henry Martens of Fairview, Okla , and Grace and husband Orlie Sawatzky of Weatherford, Okla.; and 12 grandchildren.

WIENS, HELEN SELDA DIRKS, Mountain Lake, Minn., a member of the Mountain Lake MB Church, was born June 6, 1921, to Abraham]. and Adilena Dirks at Dalmeny, Sask ., and died Jan 2, 1997, at the age of 75. On Aug 14, 1953, she was married to Leander Henrick Wiens, who predeceased her in 1973. She is survived by two daughters, Twyla Wiens and Rhonda Wiens, both of Omaha, Neb ; one son, Curt and wife Cindi of

Olathe, Kan.; three sisters, Selma Cornelson of Calgary, Alta , Doreen and husband Russell Porter of Swift Current, Sask ., and Dorothy and husband Jerry Huebert of Omaha; seven brothers, Ben and wife Sadie of Saskatoon, Sask., Ed and wife Malinda of Steinbach, Man., Abe and wife Helen of Saskatoon, Art and wife Verna of Omaha, John and wife Linda of Frazer, Mont, Alvin and wife Ileana of Fort Saskatchewan, Alta. and Melvin and wife Norma Jean of Mountain Lake; and three grandchildren. •

The Kingsburg Mennonite Brethren Church invites former members and friends to attend the 35th an n iversary celebration Su nday, March 9. Those who plan to attend the dinner at 5 p m. are asked to notify the church at 209-897-4162

Ilizabetbtowa COLLEGE

ELIZABETHTOWN COLLEGE invites applications for DIRECfOR OF ITS YOUNG CENTER FOR TIlE STUDY OF ANABAPTIST AND PIETIST GROUPS.

The College, rated as one of the best northern liberal arts institutions by U.S News and World Report. offers its 1,525 students 38 major programs in traditional liberal arts and professional fields. The Elizabethtown motto, "Educate for Service," expresses the College's mission of linking the world of work with the world of the spirit to advance the values of peace, justice and human dignity. Located in Pennsylvania's historic Lancaster County, Elizabethtown enjoys outstanding quality of life and easy access to the major metropolitan areas of Philadelphia, Washington and Baltimore.

The Young Center focuses its work on three areas: (1) fostering scholarly research and pUblication on Anabaptist and Pietist themes; (2) interpreting to a broad public the cultural heritage of Anabaptist and Pietist groups through conferences, lectures, workshops, seminars, musical events, and other media; and (3) providing undergraduate courses at Elizabethtown College in the field of the Center's interests.

Each applicant for the Young Center directorship should have a strong record of scholarship (with Ph.D. degree preferred) in at least one branch of the study of groups derived from historic Anabaptism and Pietism, and preferably have wide acquaintance with scholars throughout the various branches Also, the applicant must show evidence of potential as an effective teacher of undergraduates in the College, the amount and field( s) of teaching to be negotiated in light of the applicant's preparation and qualifications. The Young Center attracts scholars for fellowships in residence, organizes or hosts a variety of public programs, and has its own physical facility; so the applicant should show entrepreneurial and administrative skills as well as scholarship. Personal compatibility with key values of the Anabaptist and Pietist traditions will be an asset.

The position is year-round (twelve-month appointment), with excellent benefits and a salary commensurate with the applicant's preparation To apply, please submit a letter of application; a resume; and names, addresses, and telephone numbers of three references to Martha A. Farver-Apgar, Director of Personnel, Elizabethtown College, One Alpha Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022.

Evaluation of the applications will begin on February 15, 1997. AAlEO

CLEARINGHOUSE

Have a position to filf? Looking for a new employment or ministry opportunity? Have a gathering or celebration to promote? Need to self or acquire property? Reach U.S Mennonite Brethren through a Clearinghouse classified ad. The charge is 40 cents per word, with a $15 minimum Withhold payment until an invoice is received The editors reserve the right to turn down inappropriate material. For display (boxed) ad rates, please calf us.

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

POSITION -Tabor College, Hillsboro, KS, is accepting applications for the position of Superintendent of Buildings and Grounds. Responsible for directing plant maintenance and housekeeping, building maintenance, and in particular, experience and strengths with HVAC Good communication and supervisory skills necessary. Experience preferred with: control of safety functions; hiring; budget management. Requires moderately difficult physical work including lifting, reaching, pulling, climbing, walking, etc. Minimum five years experience. Bachelor's degree in engineering or business preferred Full-time salary position. Search closes April 1, 1997. Starting date negotiable between May 1 and July 1, 1997 Applicants must be sensitive to the mission, goals and pOlicies of Tabor College, rooted in evangelical , Christian faith and have an understanding of the mission of a Christian liberal arts college. Mail resume, list of references and cover letter of introduction to: Vice President of Business and Finance, Buildings/Grounds Search, Tabor College, Hillsboro, KS 67063-1799. Tabor College is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on gender, race, color, age , national origin , or status of disability

FACULTY FOR EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATIONSInviting applications from scholar/practitioners to

teach graduate courses in educational foundations, history/sociology/philosophy of education, and related areas, including capstone course for the M.A. in education. Doctorate (or near completion) and expertise in appropriate academic discipline required Evidence of research and publication in the area of specialization is desired. Applications will be evaluated beginning March 2, 1997, and appOintment will be made as soon thereafter as a suitable candidate is secured. Fresno Pacific University is a dynamic Christian institution of the Mennonite Brethren Church, with liberal arts, professional studies and graduate programs All candidates for faculty positions must share the university's Christian commitment. For complete description and faculty application form, write or phone Dr. Howard Loewen, Academic Vice President, Fresno Pacific University, 1717 S. Chestnut, Fresno, CA 93702. Phone 209-453-2023. Fax 209-453-5502. Email (hloewen@fresno edu). Position begins Aug. 15, 1997. Women and members of minority groups are especially encouraged to apply

STAFF ASSOCIATE-Mennonite Central Committee U S is seeking applicants for the position of Mennonite Conciliation Service (MCS) staff associate for

BUHLER MB CHURCH INVITES APPLICATIONS FOR THE FUL L-TIME POSITION OF

YOUTH PAST OR

POSITION OPENS JUNE 1997 SEND RESUME TO:

Leo Regier P.O. Box 126 Buhler, KS 67522

IISTRAIGHT PATHS FOR A TWISTING WORLD"

61 ST Convention OF

THE GENERAL CONFERENCE

July 10-12, 1997

urban peacemaking, based in Akron, Pa. This two year, full-time position is available on either a salaried, local service worker or service worker arrangement. Qualifications include a commitment to Christian faith, active church membership and nonviolent peacemaking. Applicants should have experience/training in peace and justice concerns, strong urban experience, espeCially with racially and ethnically diverse communities and well-developed writing, teaching and public speaking skills. For more information contact Personnel Department, Prem

Looking for a life-changing experience?

If so, be sensitive to the call of people of faith who are inviting you to partner with them in bringing justice, hope and healing. Here are some ways for you to live this out in one of the following MCC assignments. These positions, located in the Akron/Ephrata, Pa., area, are available on either a salary, local service workers, or service worker basis. Qualifications include a commitment to Christian faith, active church membership and nonviolent peacemaking.

• Assistant Director, Personnel Department

- Applications due Feb. 21

• Administrative Secretary, MCC East Coast;

• Manager, Material Resource Center; and

• Assistant Director, Latin America/Caribbean - Applications due Feb. 28

• AV Producer, Communications Department - Applications due May 30

For more information, or to receive a copy of the job descriptions, please contact Prem Dick or Goldie Kuhns at MCC Personnel Department, 21 South 12th St., Akron, PA 17501, (717)8591151, or e-mail, PSD@mcc.org, GPK@mcc.org.

OF MENNONITE BRETHREN CHURCHES

Waterloo Mennonite Brethren Church, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada

./ Relevant, motivational preaching by Elmer Martens and Ed Boschman

./ Dynamic worship led by C. Ramsy Unruh

./ Concert of prayer

./ Drama which arrests heart, mind and soul

./ Networking meetings

./ "How-to" sessions for various ministry interests

./ Round table business sessions and ministry results reports

Those willing to (ommit to faithful praying for this event may volunteer to the moderator at (602) 972-1604 (voite) or (602) 972-1606 (fax) .

Chur(hes sending (truly) representative delegates will be given spedal re(ognition and awards.

./ Qualify childcare, and children's and youth programs

Fuller information and registration forms will be in the Mar(h issue of The Christian Leader and the Marth 7 issue of Mennonite Brethren Herald, and will also be sent to the (hur(hes. The Board reports will be published in the May issue of The Christian Leader and the April 1Bissue of Mennonite Brethren Herald.

Dick/Goldie Kuhns, 21 South 12th St., Akron PA 17501, phone 717-859-1151. Applications due Feb. 14,1997.

INTERIM PASTOR-A small, vibrant, urban Anabaptist congregation committed to peace and evangelism seeks half-time pastor from Jan 1, 1998, to Aug 31, 1998, while current pastor is on sabbatical leave. Also potential for additional halftime service position. All inquiries to: Interim Pastoral Search Committee, Manhattan Mennonite Fellowship, 314 E. 19th St., New York, NY 10003

$200-$500 WEEKLY-Mailing phone calls. No experience necessary. For more information send a self-

<ill

CENTRAL

in Abbotsford, BC

HEIGHTS the CHURCH

invites applications for a full time position of

MINISTER OF WORSHIP AND MUSIC

This congregation with an average attendance of 1150 seeks to Impact its surrounding community of 110,000 in S.w. British Columbia. Qualifying applicants will have Training and Experience to:

1. Plan and direct music with an upbeat, celebrational style.

2 Oversee various musical groups, including vocal and instrumental.

3. Lead worship that ministers to all ages. _••Posltlon open Immediately•••. Send Resumes with references to the ADMINISTRATOR, Central Heights Church. 1661 McCallum Road, Abbotsford, B.C. V2S 3M4. Phone (604) 852-1001, Fax (604) 852-1001, Email -c:hchurch@Unlserve.com

100TH CELEBRATION INVITATION

The congregation of the Enid Mennonite Brethren Church extends an invitation to all friends, former members and attenders to come and share in the church's 100th anniversary celebration Saturday, April 12 and Sunday, April 13, 1997. The weekend's theme will be "Building a Promising Future From a Strong Past"

On Saturday, there will be an informal program of reflection and sharing, beginning at 2 p.m., followed by a reception for all former pastors and associates. On Sunday, Dr. Henry Schmidt, president of MB Biblical Seminary in Fresno, Calif., will be the guest speaker for the morning and evening services A special celebration meal will be served at noon on Sunday. Those participating in the meal are requested to contact the church office at 2500 N. Van Buren, Enid, OK 73703 or call 405-234-1698.

addressed stamped envelope to: Global Communication, P.O. Box 5679, Hollywood, FL 33083.

RESOURCES

DEVOTIONAL RESOURCE-Looking for a dynamic daily devotional resource written from an evangelical Anabaptist perspective? Try Rejoice!, the inter-Mennonite devotional booklet. Rejoice! mines the riches

of God's wisdom throughout the Old and New Testaments. Each day features a 300-word devotional message, complete with Bible reading, key verse and meditational prayer. Writers for Rejoice! are from the Mennonite Brethren Church, General Conference Mennonite Church and Mennonite Church. For more information or to order Rejoice!, contact your local church office, or call toll-free Kindred Productions, 1800-545-7322.

CHURCH PARTNERSHIP EVANGELISM (CPE)

Invitation: TO: Born-again Christians

King Road MB Church in Abbotsford, B.C., is seeking volunteers for its Church Partnership Evangelism outreach to

1. NICARAGUA - Managua - Rama Feb. 9-24, '97

UKRAINE - Tchernivtsi-Odessa May 3-29, '97

6. NICARAGUA - Managua

5-21, '97

PARAGUAY - Asuncion July 5-21,

Dates may be subject to change, pending further confirmation of some campaigns. ·Canadian doiiars

• Team up with national Christians and witness for Christ door to door.

• Some knowledge of the language of the country is helpful.

• Between 800-2,800 persons have prayed to accept Christ as their personal Savior and Lord during a two-week CPE campaign. Come and be a part of an enriching spiritual experience-discover what God can do through you.

For more information, contact: CPE office: Tel.-Fax: 604-864-3941, or Evelyn Unruh, 604852-5744; or Peter Loewen, 604-853-3173 or FAX 604-853-6482

Church Partnership Evangelism is a "church-to-church" effort that involves lay members in personal evangelism worldwide. Your application to participate will be forwarded to the C.P.E. Executive Committee for processing.

Peter Loewen CPE Promoter

Harold W. Ens MBMIS General Director

HIGHLIGHTS OF CHINA AND HO NG KONG

May 22 ..June 12 , 1997

Includes:

- Shanghai - Beijing

- The Great Wall - Xian

- Terracotta Warriors - Chongquing

- Yangtze River Cruise - Hong Kong

- Museums and Tombs

- Visits with persons in China and Hong Kong

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MEDIA MATTERS

BY BURTON BULLER

The Preacher's Wife stands as one recent film that scores high points on respect for institutional religion.... This film is worth seeing.

FREQUENTIY, Hollywood portrays church, preachers and family in shallow and often demeaning roles. Sometimes

the criticism is justified. Still, one would like to see these institutions presented respectfully, even treated with some depth now and then.

The Preacher's Wife stands as one recent film that scores high points on respect. Unfortunately, it fails on the sonar depth indicator.

Hardworking Rev. Henry Biggs (Courtney B. Vance) has emptied himself for his urban congregation. His burnout is affecting his relationship with his wife, Julia (Whitney Houston), and child, Jeremiah (Justin Pierre Edmund). Biggs's inner-city youth work has stalled when a young man he befriends is falsely accused of armed robbery, and Biggs is too beat to stand up for him.

A local developer (Gregory Hines) is pressuring Biggs to accept the pastorate of a new church so the land on which the present church stands can be redeveloped. The offer is tempting, but Biggs knows the present church provides the glue holding the community together. If the church goes, the community dies . Sensing his faith failing, he prays to God for help. God responds in a totally unexpected way. Dudley (Denzel Washington) arrives as an angel to help get Biggs' priOrities back on track and solve some of his present problems. As Christmas arrives, the pace of Dudley's help accelerates . Christmas becomes a time of conflict resolution and new beginnings.

Don ' t expect this film to increase your understanding of angels; the

angel Dudley is entirely a screenwriter's creation. He can even act somewhat unangelic at times. On the other hand, for Hollywood to acknowledge the centrality of a church in creating a sense of community is downright refreshing.

Rev Biggs is portrayed as a deeply caring, godly individual who carries a sense of divine responsibility for the flock he pastors. His faith is intensely practical, leading him to reach out to the unfortunate members of the community in love and compassion. When he is at his best, he impacts people's lives for the good and takes inspired stands against evil. The community depends on his wise and impassioned leadership. His greatest character flaw is that he works too hard and expects too much of himself, thus shortchanging both his flock and his family.

This film should open many opportunities to discuss faith values with children and youth. Jesus's temptation story surfaces as the developer tempts Biggs to accept a position in a new church. When Dudley arrives, nearly everyone except the preacher recognizes him as sent by God. Even though the preacher prays for help, he has diffiCUlty recognizing the help God sends. On the other hand, Jeremiah instantly recognizes Dudley for what he is and forms a close friendship with him. Ultimately, adult Biggs must express a more childlike faith to bring his own life back in line with God's will. When Biggs returns to an impassioned ministry, the

developer decides to save the old church, signaling a transformation in his life.

For anyone enjoying black gospel musiC, Whitney Houston alone is worth the price of admission. Here she returns to her gospel roots as the preacher's wife who, in her loneliness, finds solace as the church choir's lead soloist. Even though she has less than a handful of acting credits to her name, Houston turns in a credible performance.

A more forceful characterization would have raised the tension between the overworked preacher who forgets his family and his wife who beckons him back to a more balanced relationship. Tension in film generally increases audience interest.

This film is worth seeing. Its PG rating should not keep anyone away-there,is little to offend. When it hits the video stores, you can know this one is relatively safe for the kids and their friends. The only potentially offensive material involves a few scenes involving smoking and drinking.

Noteworthy is the film's director. Penny Marshall's directing credit appears more often these days. Marshall is one of a small, elite group of Hollywood women directors. You will probably remember her as the character Laverne in the television sitcom, "Laverne and Shirley." Other directing credits include the delightful League of Their Own and the touchingJumpin' Jack Flash.

In a recent interview, Marshall acknowledged The Preacher's Wife expressed the value of faith. Clearly, the script could have been directed to once again make faith look silly or naive. My hat is off to Marshall for choosing the more difficult, yet more rewarding, approach. She has done the world's community of faith a great service. I hope in the future she has a chance to direct films that examine faith in more depth than this one did She is one director that could handle the material.

A GUIDE FOR GROUP INTERACTION

SE SS ION 1 Stewardship of life

Based on "Beyond Common Cents, " page 4

GET READY - Getting started

• What do you enjoy giving or sharing with others?

GET SET - Examining the issues

1. How do you respond to the "items" Katie Funk Wiebe suggests?

2. What other examples could you add?

3. How have you observed the misuse of humans as valuable resources?

4. How does one's view of God affect stewardship issues?

GO - Applying ideas to the way we live

1. How is a more integral attitude developed? How can we help each other?

2. What is something you or your church could give without expecting tangible returns?

3. Ask God to reveal to you "wants" that have become "needs." What specific action could you take to let go?

SE SS ION 2 The n eed s o f ad oles ce nts

Based on "'Cries of the Young Teen Heart, " page 7.

GET READY - Getting started

• What is something you would have liked to tell your parents during your teenage years?

GET SET - Examining the issues

1. Review each of the responses given by adolescents. What is the basic premise or attitude behind each statement?

2. Which of the statements surprises you most? Why? Why is it difficult for parents to respond according to the suggestions?

3. Identify Scripture passages of concepts that support the suggestions made by youth.

GO - Applying ideas to the way we live

1. With which response would you, from your experience or your children's, most likely agree?

2. What steps could be taken to make changes? If you have children, ask them for suggestions.

3 In what ways could these same responses be applied to the way we relate to each other in the church?

SESSION 3 Th e global Mennonite church, Part 1

Based on coverage of Assembly Gathered, Mennonite World Conference, pp. 14-22.

GET READY - Getting started

• If you could choose the location and attend the next assembly of Mennonite World Conference, where would it be?

GET SET - Examining the issues

1. What is most striking to you about the description of the conference?

2. What seem to be the benefits of such a gathering, given the financial and logistical challenges?

3. As you read the reports, what messages do you find for the church in North America?

GO - Applying ideas to the way we live

1. How are you and your church involved in multicultural relationships? What opportunities do you have?

2. To what extent do you think our churches in North America have a partnership attitude toward our brothers and sisters in the Two-Thirds World?

3. In what ways do you think the relative material wealth of the church in North America affects its spiritual life (positively and negatively)?

SESSION 4 The global Mennonite chulch, Pal·t 2

Based on coverage of Assembly Gathered, Mennonite World Conference, pp 14-22.

GET READY - Getting started

• Identify an experience or relationship you have had with someone of a different cultural background than your own

GET SET - Examining the issues

1. Review the personal stories told of people from various countries. Identify the positive qualities/characteristics that brought them through challenging situations.

2. What do their stories tell you about the character of God?

3. How are people from other countries ministering to us in the United States?

GO - Applying ideas to the way we live

1. Whom do you know whose story and life seem hopeless? What encouragement do you find for her/him in the India 1997 reports?

2. How can we Mennonite Brethren in the United States impact the lives of those around the world whom we don't know but who have tremendous needs?

3. Develop a prayer list based on what you have read and discussed together. Take time to commit it to the Lord in prayer

One Lord, one faith, one shamiana

IN HINDI, they call it a shamiana, which means "house of cloth." These tent-and-bamboo structures are erected in India both for religious and social events. For those of us fortunate enough to inhabit it for six days in Calcutta, the shamiana nestled in one comer of the spacious campus mall at St. Thomas School will be a lasting visual symbol of Assembly Gathered.

The sheer size of the structure was breathtaking. The Mennonite press corps, highly trained in the use of simile , officially deemed it the size of two football fields. The same press corps, mostly oblivious to the principles of engineering, was largely silent regarding the mechanical accomplishment that kept it standing. "Amazing" was about all we could muster.

In many ways, a shamiana was "appropriate technology" for India 1997. To have met in a modem, air-conditioned convention center-assuming

matter of days. The temporary nature of our meeting place in Calcutta symbolized the reality that became evident during Assembly Gathered: the Holy Spirit does not take up permanent residence either. Yes, the Spirit continues to work in the Mennonite "homelands" of Europe and North America, but the locus of the Spirit's most dramatic activity has shifted to Asia, Africa and Latin America. We North Americans may have institutions of brick and mortar, but the Two-Thirds World has a church on the move.

This is a bittersweet realization for us in North America. On the one hand, we delight to see how the gospel blossoms in cultures so different from our own. At the same time, we wonder why the bloom has withered at home. Maybe the answer, at least in part, can be found inside the shamiana too. J\lst as the tent was the necessary form of shelter as the children of Israel wandered in the wilderness, the shamia"na in Calcutta such a thing even exists in Calcuttawould have robbed us of a powerful visual metaphor the global Mennonite family needed to see and experience during those days.

At a basic level, meeting in a shamiana was a constant reminder that the Mennonite church is now "at home" in the Two-Thirds World. Numerically, the

We North Americans may have InstHutlons

of brick

and mortar, but the TwoThirds World has a

church on the move.

majority of Mennonites now live in the Southern Hemisphere. North America and Europe are minority territory for the church. We benefited from meeting in such an undeveloped "house," where dust, smoke and even the occasional neighborhood dog wandered in freely. It should remind us the church is growing most dramatically where the doors not only are open, but in many cases are literally nonexistent.

From the outside, the worship shamiana was a drab canvas brown. Inside, though, the tent came alive with purple and pink fabric. Seems to me the world too often sees the Mennonite church from the outside. A functional bunch, they think, but rather colorless and plain Maybe we see ourselves the same way. But come inside, where the world gathers, and you will find life, color and spirit. Mennonite World Conference was our invitation to enter in, to see the church from the inside. Shamianas are festive structures. And we have reason to celebrate.

By design, a shamiana is not permanent. The one at St. Thomas School was erected and eventually razed in a

reminds us that the Mennonite church in the Two-Thirds World has not found a comfortable and permanent home in its culture. Can we in North America say the same thing?

Inside the shamiana we heard stories of a church serving amid unrest, persecution and economic need in the Two-Thirds World. This is not the story in North America. The theme

for Asia Day was, "Living Christ Amidst Many Religions . " But in North America, we like to think of the Christian community as the moral majority. In Latin America, the church resists the coercive political and economic agenda of the principalities and powers. But in North America we're more inclined to form a Christian Coalition so we can manipulate the agenda to our advantage. The church in Africa, by necessity , proclaims a wholistic gospel that combines both word and deed as it addresses the needs of its neighbors. In North America, we invest our energy in debating amongst ourselves about worship styles and welfare cuts.

A shamiana is an appropriate structure for a church where the primary issues are survival and mobility. Brick and mortar meet the need of a church bent on permanence and protecting its interests. If you were the Holy Spirit, consumed with an agenda to rescue a broken humanity, where would you prefer to dwell?

I pray that our North American household of faith might learn to inhabit the shamiana of God . And that I might find my way there too.-DR