January 2004 by Christian Leader

FIRST WORDS

••• from the editor

This month the feature section was produced in cooperation with the u.s. Conference Peace Commission. It has been a tradition for as long as I can remember that the first Leader issue of the calendar year focuses on peacemaking, and for 2004 our annual peace issue looks at conflict in the church It tells us something about the importance of this topic that when asked for Leader theme suggestions, the U.S. Conference Board of Faith and llie also suggested managing church conflict.

We begin our look at congregational conflict with the story of Pine Acres MB Church , a church that 12 years ago experienced a painful split. Today the congregation is a healthy, thriving church How? According to Pastor Don Morris, it's because they switched their focus and got busy reaching lost people The articles that follow Pine Acres' story offer practical advice and biblical insights that can help us strengthen our congregations Authors Larry A Dunn and Ron Claassen of the Center for Peacemaking and Conflict Studies at Fresno Pacific University and Marlin E. Thomas, a former MB pastor and current conflict transformation consultant, remind us that conflict is not trouble to be avoided . Rather, conflict is a normal part of personal and congregational life and when we deal with conflict appropriately we grow.

This month marks the one-year anniversary of Chuck Buller's appointment as the U S Conference executive director. The denomination has done without a fulltime lead staff member for many years and we wondered what roles Buller found himself filling this first year and what impressions he's developed as he's traveled among U.S. churches. Typical of Buller's schedule, Leader writer Myra Holmes and Buller first visited at the Denver airport as Buller was between flights and then again by phone

The news section also features the youth activities of the Southern District Conference and an update on MB Biblical Seminary's Ministry Quest, a high school ministry leadership program The November 2003 SDC youth convention drew more than 700 high schoolers and sponsors, making it the largest denominational gathering, second only to the national MB youth convention held every four years. Given that taday's young people are tomorrow's church, the response of our young people to these and other ministry opportunities tells us that we have a future to anticipate with confidence -CF

COMING

• JANUARY 25, 2004-Mennonite World Conference World Fellowship Sunday

• FEBRUARY 15, 2004-U. S. Conference Peace Sunday

• JULY 21-23, 2004-National pastors ' convention, Salt Lake City, Utah

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

• JULY 25-26, 2004-55-Plus Conference, Salt Lake City, Utah 2

Art Credits: Cover photo: Orley Friesen Printing by Valley Offset Printing, Valley Center, Kan

"Ready to explode

Pine Acres Church of Weatherford, Okla., knows all about the devastating effects of conflict. Ten years ago they experienced a painful church split. Today they are once again ready to explode-this time thanks to numeric growth and a dynamic ministry to their community. What prompted this congregation's transformation? BY DON MORRIS

Rethinking conflict

Because we cannot eliminate conflict from our lives and our congregations, we must discover how to transform potentially divisive conflicts into opportunities for growth and constructive change. The Bible offers principles to guide us in rethinking conflict. BY

LARRY A. DUNN

"Our way" vs. limy way"

Church committee meetings would be transformed if 1 Corinthians 13 guided the decision-making process, if "our way" was more important than "my way." Sound idealistic? Here are several suggestions for transforming existing conflict in committee situations BY RON CLAASSEN

Tracking a developing church "storm "

Serving Christ in unity is our goal as church families But sometimes we let our personal wishes get ahead of working together with our brothers and sisters. Knowing the stages of conflict can help a congregation defuse the storm of conflict. BY MARLIN

E THOMAS

In 1998, the U S Conference adopted this statement as a guide to responding to conflict.

• Miscellaneous thoughts Ph'lip Side by Philip Wiebe

• Throwing the book at cable

Minds by Marvin Hein

• Ownership of Palestine and the Lord's second coming

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""Pine Acres Church knows all about the devastating effects of conflict. They also know what it's like to rise from the ashes, welcome change and develop a dynamic ministry to their community.

LISS THAN 15 YEARS AGO, PINE ACRES CHURCH of eatherord, Okla., was reduced to ashes. It wasn't a fire that d ecimated a church bUilding. It was an excruciatingly pairifu l church conflict and eventual split that d,ply wounded the men and women of a thriving chUrch

This cburcti was planted in 1954 as a daughter urch of the ong-established Corn MB Church. Known as Broadway Heights MB Church for the first 15 years, it was a growing church that had found a good niche in ministry to this small college town. The church literally moved in 1970 to a new subdivision and became known as Pine Acres Church of the Mennonite Brethren.

The church continued to grow at the new location, and consistently ministered to families. Things were positive for many, many years and the church settled Into a mode of comfort and continuity. And then the bottom fell out.

Many factors led to what eventually became an agonizingly painful church split in the fall of 1990, when about one fourth of the congregation left along with the pastor. Many of those leaving immediately another church in Weatherford that, by the way, Is still alive and well today under the leadership of that pastor.

The enormity of the wound that occurred during that time is difficult to grasp. It is helpful, although painful, to try to understand some of the causes of the conflict. Stated simplistically, at least part of the dissention resulted from the fact that some in the church highly favored the pastor and the direction of the church's ministry and some didn't. The division became very public. Verbal warfare coming from both "sides" eventually escalated to a crisis point at a church business meeting in 1990. People on both sides, including the pastor, were wounded by verbal lashings from disgruntled people. It got very ugly. Leaders in the congregation were split in their opinions, families were at odds, tears were being shed by many and an inevitable final confrontation was becoming more and more apparent.

Finally, at a Thursday night deacon's meeting in October 1990, the conflict came to a head. The pastor's ministry was over that very night and he was not in the pulpit the next Sunday. Suddenly a church was split apart, and the wounds were almost indescribable. Today many look back on those days as being some of the most painful of their entire lives.

Nancy Fast, who has been a member for many years, and is currently the church's valued secretary, remembers those days with sorrow. "That first Sunday when the pastor was not present was very hard. It was a terrible bad day. Others in the church were talking about leaving and were saying things that I don't think were true. Over the next couple of weeks, people in the church who didn't

b Don Morri s

really know what was going on and why all of this had happened wondered if they should just leave as well. For several weeks it was not a good feeling on Sunday mornings at all."

As the church suffered, Southern District Conference leaders, including the district minister and Board of Faith and Life members were brought in to try to bring some resolution to the crisis. Meetings between the two sides in the conflict were attempted, and although some mending occurred the rift was so deep and the distrust so prevalent that the split remained unresolved. People had great difficulty in forgiving others who had hurt them so deeply. The negative things that had openly been said continued to reverberate in the halls of the church long after they had actually been uttered. Over the next several weeks and perhaps even longer, if someone saw a person from the other "side" at a store or in another public place, they would simply walk the other way. Broken relationships were apparent everywhere during those tumultuous times. To be honest, however, as is often the case in conflicts like this, even today there is disagreement as to exactly what specific events and factors caused the conflict.

So, what does a church do after such a horrible event, especially when so many of those who left were the congregation's leaders and teachers? Questions were raised as to whether or not Pine Acres could even survive. But, survive it did. And with renewed resolve, this wounded congregation turned the pain of an ugly church conflict Into an amazing story of God's goodness and restoration. So, how did that happen?

In the spring of 1991, a few months after the conflict, Pine Acres Church hired Leonard and Leona Vogt to come for a three-month interim period of ministry. At the same time, the church also began looking for another full-time pastor. It was a providential decision The Vogts poured their energies into meeting face-to-face with every individual and family in the church, allowing them to talk about their feelings . This led the congregation into a time of tremendous healing.

The work of the Vogts brought the congregation to a point where the people realized they were at a crossroads. Would they "get going again" or not? In the end, the people chose a path that allowed them to move forward with excitement. They were tired of the feelings of defeat. An attitude of victory-of doing everything they could to overcome the previous conflict-began to take hold and sweep over the congregation. God was definitely at work. The congregation was starting to get excited about the future It was fun to be at church again on Sunday mornings

In the summer of 1991, Pine Acres hired as their pas-

toral couple my wife Janna and me, a nonethnic, "green" pastor right out of MB Biblical Seminary. Today, we are still that pastoral couple, and we marvel as we realize that what has happened over the past 12 years is truly a "God thing."

The congregation today does not even begin to resemble the church right after the split. The people were so ready to move forward that they embraced change after change after change, realizing that by doing so, they were positioning themselves for new and dynamic ministry. The changes have allowed the church to grow spiritually and numerically. In fact, there is no longer any indication that a split had ever occurred. The members who were present at that time no longer like to think about that awful experience, and so for the most part they don't. New people who come to Pine Acres are somewhat shocked when they learn that the church endured such a painful church conflict.

The changes that have occurred at Pine Acres over the past 12 years leading to refocus and renewal are varied. Small groups known as Shepherd Groups were formed in 1992. These small groups, meeting off-site every other Sunday night, have increasingly become a vital part of the overall ministry of the church, allowing meaningful relationships to be formed and people to feel included and cared for.

The church hired Mike Epp in 1992 as a part-time youth pastor with the help of a Southern District Conference growth grant as outreach to youth became a priority. The sanctuary was renovated and enlarged in 1993, adding 90 additional seats, a necessity due to the increases in attendance. Over time, the worship style progressed through a major transition from what was very traditional in 1991 to what is today a very lively and contemporary style with many musicians, vocalists and use of the latest in praise music. The preaching is strongly biblical in focus and yet very practical in approach and application.

The congregation also added many ministries aimed at specific societal needs in the community such

as Celebrate Recovery, a Christian 12-step program. This program, begun in January 2001, has provided spiritual input for dozens of people caught in addictions and has also resulted in 19 people giving their lives to Jesus for the first time. Other outreach ministries include DivorceCare, helping those already caught in divorce situations, and Prism Weight Loss, a Christian weight loss program. There is also a renewed commitment to college students, including The Solid Rock Cafe that provides a homemade lunch to 40 to 50 college students every 1\tesday. Pine Acres has also continued to focus on children through AWANA children's clubs and a commitment to high quality Sunday school for kids. Hal Penner became the full-time youth pastor in the mid-90s and continues to oversee an ever-challenging youth ministry in this city of 15,000.

With input from Mission USA as a MUSA Target Church in 1997, the church added a second Sunday morning worship service along with the part-time addition of Tony Cannon as worship pastor. Under the direction of Cannon, the church now presents a large-scale Easter pageant with 1,500 people attending one of the five productions this past Easter. Plans for this year's pageant are even larger. Several first-time decisions for Christ have been made over the last few years as a result of the Easter pageant. Cannon was given full-time status as worship pastor in January 2002 and continues to lead the congregation in inspiring worship on Sundays.

Another large, two-story building addition was completed in 1999, adding much-needed classroom space, expanded youth facilities and a unique 50s style diner complete with red vinyl covered booths and black and white checkered floor. Just recently, on November 23, the church raised the final amount due on the building expansion so that we are currently debt free.

These changes-as well as others-have occurred slowly over time. But, the path to healing from a painful church conflict to a healthy church was through "doing church" differently than ever before, with a heart for reaching hurting and lost people for Jesus Christ. The

MENDING OUR CONFLICTS

focus shifted from inward, where there were painful memories, to outward where there was joy and ministry gratification. Getting our eyes off of ourselves and onto ministering to others who are hurting and who are obviously in need of the Lord has been the key to our church's renewed health and growth.

In fact, I feel that this church has embraced these numerous changes with a wonderful attitude. I often brag on our seniors, because they have been some of the most positive people of all as far as supporting the various changes over the years, even when some of those changes took them way out of their comfort zones . The church simply chose to move forward with faith.

As a result, God has done amazing things, and Pine Acres has now roughly tripled in size from where it was after the split. New people are consistendy joining the church and almost always remark when given the opportunity that Pine Acres Church has such a warm, friendly atmosphere and that they felt accepted and loved from the very beginning.

Tally Reagan, who has attended Pine Acres with his wife, Jackie and their two children for the past 6 or 7 months, gives the account of how they came to the church. ''We had been struggling finding a church where both of us felt comfortable. We had attended a lot of churches , even a few in neighboring towns. We just couldn't agree on what we wanted, but we knew we needed to be attending church for ourselves and our two children One Sunday, our son was sick and Jackie stayed home with him. My daughter, Jessica, and I just set out to find a church, not knOwing where we were going. One church we found started 30 minutes later, another had already started and we were already too late . We had then decided to drive by our son's school for some reason, and as we were driving there, we came to Pine Acres , which I noticed started in just five minutes There was a 'guest parking' right out front that was open, so we decided to try it and I puUed in. From the moment

Pontius' Puddle

we walked in, we found a friendly atmosphere, we felt comfortable, my wife came with me the next Sunday and we've been coming ever since. Pine Acres provided what we were looking for."

When the Reagans were told about the 1990 church split, they could hardly believe

"Pine Acres Church is getting ready to just explode. " These days, however, it's not about an explosion ofpain and conflict, but of growth and positive community influence!

that the church they experienced as so warm and caring could have endured such a painful past.

Pine Acres Ambassadors are positioned throughout the church on Sunday mornings to make sure new visitors are weU cared for. But, reaching out to others is reallyan ever expanding focus for the whole church, and continues to be a priority for the churcq's leadership. More new plans for ministry are currently being formed and prayed about, and appear to be just on the horizon. One church leader who had been present during the split in 1990 said recendy, "Pine Acres Church is getting ready to just explode " These days, however, it's not about an explosion of pain and conflict, but of growth and positive community influence!

From hurting and verbal bashing in 1990 to warm, inviting , accepting and growing in 2003. It truly has been a wonderful work of God at Pine Acres Church. From the experience of this church, I believe it can be concluded that there is no conflict that God cannot mend. There is no church that is beyond hope. Although Pine Acres Church certainly isn't perfect, and there are still typical conflicts to work through from time to time, it has indeed risen from the ashes .•

Don Morris is senior pastor at Pine Acres Church, Weatherford, Okla.

What

the Bible says about conflict can transform our thinking

conflict, we need a fundamental shift in our thinking about conflict. The conflict we see around us-in the world, in our neighborhoods and even in our churches-is often frightening. Some people talk about managing conflict, but it often manages us! But conflict can be transformed into an opportunity for growth and ultimately produce more authentic harmony.

lives, relationships and ministries?

Christians are not immune to conflict. In fact, the strength of our convictions and our commitment to God seem to make conflict even more intense within the body of Christ. However, our ability to deal with conflict in the spirit of Jesus is one of the key factors in determining how effectively we minister in the church. Because we cannot eliminate conflict from our lives, we must discover the means for transforming potentially divisive conflicts into opportunities for growth and constructive change.

In order to accomplish positive change through

This transformation takes place as all parties involved in the conflict seek to understand each other according to Matt. 10:15-20, even in the midst ofintense disagreement. Conflicts are thus transformed from moments of division and destruction into opportunities for growth and greater cooperation.

The Bible is like a kind of textbook in conflict studies. In it we find examples ranging from how not to deal with conflict (Abram in Egypt) to some extraordinary examples of creative transformation (Solomon judging between the two women who claimed one baby). We discover a diversity of approaches, ranging from giving in to violent confrontation to joint partnering in seeking

good solutions that work well for God's glory.

Here are five insights that provide a deeper understanding of conflict from biblical texts

Insight #1: Conflict is a normal part of life for all people, both in and out of the church (Rom. 14:1·6, 10 12; Gal. 2; 1 Cor. 1; Phil. 3; Acts 6, 15).

Try to imagine a marriage or some other close relationship having no different points of view. While it may seem ideal for a short time, stagnation soon sets in. The result is no growth and a slow, gradual distancing that eventually turns the relationship cold. While it seems obvious that too much conflict can be harmful, the opposite is also true Achurch without a measure of healthy disagreement and conflict can become like salt that has lost its taste or a light hidden under a bushel basket (Matt. 5:13,15)

God 's creation as described in Genesis brought forth diversity in life These God-given differences , as experienced from the time of creation until today, make for , conflict in the body of Christ. The apostle Paul said, "When any of you has a grievance against another .. ." not "If any of you has a grievance against another . . ." (1 Cor. 6:1). UkeJesus, he assumed that the church would experience conflict. It affirms that we are a living body. Thankfully we are given guidance for transforming conflict into a healthy part of our life together

Insight #2: Conflict becomes sinful when our responses to it are destructive, hurtful, abusive or violent (Matt. 7:1·5; John 8:1·11; Rom . 2:1-4).

Conflict often occurs over issues that focus on behaviors with which we disagree . If the conflict turns into a contest between "us" and "them, " "their" behavior is identified as sinful. But even people who feel they are "right" on the issue can treat others in very unloving ways Being faithful to Christ involves more than taking the right stance on issues. It also requires engaging those with whom we disagree in positive, respectful dialogue. Anger is not w.rong. But it can tum into hate and even result in murderous acts (Gen. 4:7) Eph. 4:26 teaches, "Be angry, but do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger." Anger is a natural human emotion, which occurs when we are offended or upset. Like any emotion, it will subside if we give it time and common sense will return to us . Then we can make better decisions about how to handle the offense or upset feelings we had.

Because anger is the initial emotional response to something that annoys you , Scripture teaches us to deal with the situation quickly (Eph. 4:26) . Otherwise, the emotion can become entrenched in our psyche, and tum into hate. Hate colors our attitude toward everything in

life, and causes us to act in ungodly ways. As God told Cain, when we don't deal with anger, sin lies crouching at the door, desiring to possess us (Gen. 4:7) . The actions that surface because of bitterness and hatred are sinful and can destroy, both others and ourselves.

Our actions in conflict don't have to add to the injury that may already have been experienced. This is especially true if we follow the teaching of Scripture as discussed above . In all matters we are commanded to "do to others as you would have them do to you" (Matt. 7: 12) The apostle Paul provides a very practical application of this insight in 1 Cor 6: 1-7 (in discussing Christians and lawsuits). This is perhaps one of the most ignored passages in many Christian groups

Insight #3: The Bible provides guidance for both attitu de and process in dealing with conflict (Matt. 5:21·26; 18:15·20; 1 Cor. 13:4-7; Gal. 6:1·5; 1 Peter 3:8,16).

We share common bonds in Christ and are admonished to speak the truth, be kind, humble, gentle, respectful, accountable, nonjudgmental, loving and forgiving. Matt. 18:15-20 speaks to us about what to do when there is brokenness Dealing with broken relationships is the business of the church. Bringing about forgiveness and healing is God's work, but it is the concern of the entire faith community. It is everybody's business.

Like Jesus, we are admonished to treat kindly those who live and believe differently than we . This does not mean compromising the Gospel or ignoring our deepest convictions. But it does mean living by the "fruit of the Spirit" (Gal 5:22-23), and humbly recognizing our own imperfect, sinful condition before God. Jesus showed his love for those with whom he disagreed. He made it very clear where he stood, always leaving the door open as a standing invitation for all to share in his vision and commitments.

God guides us in conflict. Not just by giving us practical steps for confronting others (Matt. 18:15-17), but by promising to be present with us in times of discord when healing and forgiveness are needed (Matt . 18:20).

Insight #4: God can use conflict for learning, growth and transformation (Acts. 6,15).

We can come to know God more deeply in time of conflict. Conflict can damage relationships and tear apart community But conflict can also be an opportunity, strengthening relationships and bUilding up the body of Christ. How we approach conflict helps determine what its result will be . If we actively look for growth and illumination, we will find it.

Throughout the history of the church, God has spoken in the midst of conflict. We see this in the conflicts

recorded in Acts 6 and 15, where fundamental truths about the participation of believers in the work of God's kingdom emerged.

Important creeds, doctrines and even the formation of the sCriptural canon emerged out of conflict. God is present with us and often speaks when Christians face conflict openly and honestly. While not every disagreement leads to "revelation," we may deny ourselves opportunities to hear God's voice ifwe avoid conflict or end it prematurely.

Insight #5: As Christians, we seek not the absence of conflict (disagreement) but the presence of shalom (Gen. 14; Psalm 85; Eph. 2:13-17; 2 Cor. 5:17-21; Amos 5:21-24; Micah 6:6-8; Matt. 5:23-24; 6:14-15; 23:23-24; Col. 3:12-15).

Shalom is God's peace based on truth, mercy and justice. k is embodied in love, forgiveness, reconciliation and the restoration of right relationship with God and one another. Ron Kraybill, a well-known church mediator, says, "If you want to have less conflict, you should try to have more." He's not trying to stir up more conflict in the pews! What he means is, if you want to have less harmful conflict you should encourage open and honest disagreement while still treating others respectfully.

Restoring relationships broken in conflict requires

(1) acknowledging the wrong we did and accepting responsibility for hurting the other (truth-telling); (2) the need for acceptance, letting go of past hurts and a new beginning (mercy); (3) recognition of rights, the need for restructuring and restitution (justice); (4) a sense of well-being (peace/shalom).

At the very heart of the gospel is a message of repentance, fOrgiveness, reconciliation and salvation. This is God's true shalom desired for all people. Genuine reconciliation, made possible by the cross , is both vertical towards God and a horizontal experience towards others. God's peace is an inward, personal experience and an outward, relational journey with others. Because of what God has done for us, we seek to reconcile ourselves with others . "While we were still sinners Christ died for us While we were still enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of his son" (Rom. 5:8b, lOa) •

Larry A. Dunn is the director of academic programs at the Center for Peacemaking and Conflict Studies at Fresno Pacific University. He and his wife and their three sons attend College Community MB Church in Clovis, Calif. This article is excerpted with permission from Dunn's chapter in the book Transforming Conflict in Youth Church: A Practical Guide published in 2002 by Herald Press.

vs. cc

Creating confidence and commitment in the face of conflict

by Ron Claassen

CH INDIVIDUAL AS ASPECIAL

Responses to differences

We all have somewhat different preferences when it

comes to music . Some like one kind of music and others prefer a different kind. That is not because one is better than the other is. It just represents a difference. If a music committee invites members to discuss their preferences they will note differences. Noting these differences can be quite enjoyable, but what happens when it is time to plan the music for next Sunday? Do the differences continue to be a source of enjoyment or do they become a source of tension?

Differences lead some committees to work together in a way that gives each member increased enthusiasm and energy and enriches the worship service for everyone These same differences cause another committee high levels of tension and make it difficult to listen to each other or plan together. In this committee it is possible that some will try to garner the votes of others to be

MENDING OUH CONFLICTS

sure that "I win" and the "other loses " Sometimes this tension and conflict leads to resignations from the committee or even the church.

Why do some disagreements increase closeness and caring among members while others lead to distance and tension? Are there ways to increase the likelihood of our disagreements contributing to our energy and enthusiasm? I am going to suggest a few ideas, starting with understanding the distinction between disagreement and conflict.

When differences become conflicts

Differences and even disagreements are not contlicts until at least one of the parties involved perceives that the other is blocking or trying to block or interfere with the way they would like things to be done. It is not the differences or even the disagreement that causes the tension, it is the perception or fear of interference or blocking. Some interfere out of greed, but even every idea that is intended to improve something is going to be perceived by others as interference.

Knowing this provides some clues about what could be done to prevent a disagreement from escalating into a destructive conflict or to turn a conflict into a constructive problem solving experience. There are some things individuals can do and there are some things groups or committees can do-structures can be redeemed.

Let's imagine that a committee, as it was gathering for the first time, took some time to talk about how they want to be together. Let's imagine that they read 1 Cor. 13 and then focused on verses 4-7 Let's imagine they agreed or made a commitment with each other to be patient, kind and to look for our way rather than insisting on my way. Imagine the safety and relaxation each member might feel. Perhaps you can try it the next time your committee meets. If you each commit yourselves to this and each agree to pray for God to guide and help you keep this commitment, it will make a difference.

Shalom-peace-is not the absence of conflict. Rather it is the confidence that in the face of conflict we will be patient, kind and willing to look for our way. 'In this context, differences can be celebrated. This is a way of inviting constructive conflict and preventing destructive conflict.

Finding shalom

But what if you are already serving on a committee where you don't feel that shalom-peace. In fact , you often feel attacked and leave most meetings feeling very stressed. What could you do next time you are attacked? Here are five simple steps that could make a difference .

1. Don't react. There are many good reasons for

not reacting. One is that when you react, you are giving your power to the attacker. Another is that it will certainly escalate the conflict. You also know that reacting, either by attacking back or by walking out, feels good at first but doesn't feel good later Let's imagine that when you are attacked, you remember your commitment to be patient, kind and not insist on your way but instead look for our way (1 Cor. 13:4-7). You'll still feel significant tension but you will also feel empowered since you have a plan. It is best when the committee as a whole has agreed to this. But even if they haven't if one person does it, it will change the dynamics of the committee. Destructive arguments take at least two.

2. Listen to their side. Let's imagine that when you are attacked, you don't attack back; you don't just react and say things you will later regret. Instead, you invite the other to say more or to clarify their concerns . One way of inviting this is to say, "I'm confused, could you say more." If you say this, it is very important to remember, while you are saying it, your commitment to be kind because if this sounds sarcastic it won't help. There is no way to fake it. If you are committed to be patient, kind and to look for our way, it will come through. After you have listened, it is helpful to summarize to be sure you heard what the other person really intended to say. If you summarize and they say, that is not what I said or what I intended to say, then invite clarification and try again until you have understood. Real listening changes the climate. Read Matt 18: 15-17 and note how important it is to listen .

3 Invite looking for our way. Let the other(s) know that your interest is not in getting your way but in looking for our way. One way of inviting this is to say, "It looks like we have some differences (or disagreement or conflict) and I would be open to looking for a way to resolve this that would work for all of us " Note that in a major church conflict the resolution letter began with, "It has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us " (Acts 15 :28a) There is no guarantee that the other will agree, but the likelihood is good if the one doing the inviting remembers his or her commitment to being patient and kind.

4. Build a bridge. Once there is agreement to look for our way, it might be that a simple conversation would work. But it might take some more significant effort to build the bridge One way to build a bridge is to separate each person's pOSition from his or her underlying concerns The positions are the particular things each wants that are blocking or interfering with the other. The underlying concerns can be found by asking why that position is important. Have each person think of three to five reasons why the position they have

taken is important. List these main concerns, not the original positions, on a chalk or white board. List them all together with a heading that says, "our concerns." Chances are very high that even though the original positions interfere with or block each other, the main concerns will not. Ask yourselves, "If we could find a way to meet all of the concerns, would that solve our problem?" If the answer is yes, then it is just a matter of being creative enough to find our way. Ask each person to generate at least three ways to address the concerns This brainstorming and creative exercise is energizing. Finally, you are looking for the ways that "seem good to us and to the Holy Spirit" (Acts 15:28a) .

S. Don't give up. If this does not lead to a resolution, there are still several creative and fair options to pursue. One idea is to schedule another meeting time. Each person can take the list of "our concerns" and make a commitment to pray for insight to help generate more ideas before the next meeting. Then come back and continue the process from #4.

If that does not lead to a resolution, ask others to join in helping to create ways to address all of the concerns. Be patient and don't give up quickly (1 Cor. 13:47). If you are still stuck or if they are not willing to join in the search for our way, see if you can agree on the best alternative to finding our way. Perhaps you could choose others you trust to make the decision that they think comes as close as possible to meeting all of the concerns. There are many ways to make a decision other than majority vote. A majority vote works pretty well if the

MENDING OUR CONFLICTS

by Marlin E

• Thomas

VIIWIRS WATC,." NG THE WIZARD OF OZ CAN SEE storm cloudS loom trlg on the horizon long before Dorothy can. 11}.ose wh !lave previously experienced the escalating stages Qf a sunnilr storm are not surprised as balmy summer air into a destructive tornado. What are die stages of a developing church storm? What are mertelltale signs of the escalating friction pointing to a church conflict tornado?

Level One

The first level of conflict (the healthy type) occurs when you simply have a problem to solve. In this type of conflict people realize that their conflict, or disagreement, has nothing to do with each other It has rather to do with the "how to" of doing things. This level of conflict is a normal part of everyday life together-like white fluffy clouds lazily dotting the horizon on a warm , mid-summer day. Everyone in the church wants to serve the Lord, but they sometimes have different ideas on the best way to do it. Phil . 2:1-2 tells us to keep our eyes focused on the main goal-serving the Lord in unity. If we can do that, we can talk with each other without getting all pushed out of shape. We can share different ideas and talk about a variety of plans, until we find the best plan that can help us accomplish our goal in ministry. We can respect each other'S views and feelings, and negotiate our differences in ways that don't defeat our main purpose-serving Christ in unity.

LevellWo

The second level of conflict occurs when a definite disagreement develops. In this type of conflict people become more concerned about getting their way than solving the problem They forget about Phil. 2:1-2, and begin to put themselves ahead of everyone else White fluffy summer clouds begin to tum dark on the horizon! Resolving this type of conflict is tricky, because we usually try to tell everyone else what he or she should do, but we're seldom willing to do our part to change. The only real solution here is for someone to say, "I think we've gotten off track here 1 find myself focusing more on what 1 want than on what others want. Let's slow things down, make a list of how each of us sees things, and find a way to resolve the issue in a way that honors how each of us believes God wants us to proceed. " That approach allows them to return to the principles of the Level One "problem to solve " disagreement , and takes it out of the arena of talking about personal hurts and desires

Level Three

If individuals cannot return to a Level One objective discussion, the uneasy spirit of a Level Two disagreement develops into a contest. At this level of conflict people have move d from haVing a definite disagreeme nt to firm -

lyestablished positions and to drawing up sides. Each side talks about the issue in a lopsided way, distorting the information and talking only about the information which proves they are right. Tension mounts, and the other side is blamed for the bad feelings that exist. Dark clouds fill the sky and fierce winds begin to blow.

To avoid a Level Three conflict, individuals need to reconnect spiritually and emotionally. They can do this by utilizing the spiritual diSciplines of prayer, worship and fellowship. They also need to transform the "tornado" into summer calm by again returning to the Level One characteristics of problem solving, speaking directly to one another with objectivity, respect and courtesy. They must evidence a clear desire to resolve their differences justly and fairly

The most consistently helpful way to keep this level of conflict from escalating to a storm of Level 4 proportions is for the congregation to get outside help in the form of a pastor from another church, a denominational leader, a Christian mediator, counselor or attorney or a specialist in conflict resolution The reason an outside person is needed is that everyone inside the church has by now taken sides. No one can really see things objectively and clearly. And even if they could, no one would trust them if they tried to lead them in a way they did not believe was right.

However, the outside resource person must be careful to remain neutral , assisting the participants in the conflict to fmd their own fair and just solutions , instead of imposing their own views on the congregation.

Level Four

If the polarization of a Level Three conflict is not resolved successfully, it will inevitably evolve into a fullblown church fight. Lightning begins to flash, thunderclaps further disturb the uneasy atmosphere, and rain, sleet or hail begins to cover the landscape.

People who are by now hopelessly locked into their own view of things will warn of "dire consequences" if things don't change Some withhold all o r portions of their offerings, others cease attending services, some begin to attend elsewhere and still others threaten to leave People begin to speak of the actions of those they disagree with as sinful and often lose control of their emotional poise . Differences are seen in terms of absolutes, and labeled as right (the way I see it) and wrong (the way you see it) There is no longer any middle ground.

It is usually at this stage of a conflict that congregationalleadership gives up trying to solve the conflict on their own and chooses to call in outside help. Outside mediators and/or consultants can provide several impor-

tant services for the congregation . They can reduce anxiety by making it possible for everyone to be heard. They can assist in generating accurate, objective information about the conflict issues. And, they can assist congregational members and leaders in working through a fair and just approach to reconciliation and problem solving

If the conflict issues are not resolved adequately at Level Four, one of two things may happen. Some members may leave, including the pastor, or the storm may pass, and everything may appear to be resolved In reality, however, it will only be a matter of time before another storm appears on the horizon.

Level Five

Some conflict resolution specialists call this final level of conflict "intractable." It can be characterized by the attitude, "I'd rather fight to the finish than give up now," or "It's time to 'die' right." By this time some have left the church and those who remain dig in for the long haul. The church is so polarized that the feelings of love that used to characterize them are gone .

At this highest and most deadly level of conflict, repentance on the part of everyone involved in the conflict is the highest priority. By this time everyone has sinned in attitude, word or deed. Repentance is the only way to transform a Level Five storm into spiritual wholeness. In addition to repentance, assistance will be needed from denominational offiCials, mediators, consultants and spiritUal resource persons to return the congregation to normalcy once again. If this is not pOSSible, the only other solution may be to secure competent professional assistance in dividing the church into two separate congregations, or in disbanding the group entirely.

The purpose of seeking outside help here is to assist those who are left in the congregation make these changes in a positive manner.

As you can see, it is much better and easier to resolve conflicts in their early stages, rather than waiting until they get out of hand. Unfortunately, most people don't like conflict, so they prefer to "wait it out." But the truth is, conflict never solves itself. It only gets worse. It may go "underground" for awhile, and feel like it's solved, but sooner or later it will pop up again.

One thing churches can do to avoid conflict in the first place is to educate themselves about biblical conflict resolution approaches, and provide good internal controls against its evil and destructive ways. That can be done by reading as much as possible about conflict, and/or securing someone who is a competent trainer who is able to spend time with the church, or at least the church leadership. Training programs are available in many formats from a variety of sound, biblical trainers. Marlin Thomas is the founding president and director of Resources of Resolving Conflict, a nonprofit evangelical, biblically-based Christian ministry dedicated to assisting church congregations, ministries, and families learn how to reduce strife and experience Gods full potential in their ministries and relationships. He has over 30 years experience as a minister, including with Mennonite Brethren congregations and seven years as a Bible teacher. This article is adapted from material on Thomas' website at www. rrcinc.org and from a chapter in the book Transforming Conflict in Your Church: A Practical Guide edited by Thomas, published by Herald Press in 2002 and is used with permission

Commitments for Christians in times of disagreement Agreeing" disagreeing in love

"Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond ofpeace, YEph 4 :3) as both individual members and the body of Christ, we pledge that we shalJ:

In Thought

Accept conflict

Affirm hope

Commit to prayer

1. Acknowledge together that conflict is a normal part of our life in the church (Rom . 14: 1-8, 10·12, 17 19; 15:1-7)

2 . Affirm that as God walks with us in conflict we can work through to growth (Eph . 4 : 15-16).

3 Admit our needs and commit ourselves to pray for a mutually satisfactory solution (no prayers for my success or for the other to change but to find a joint way) (James 5 : 16)

InAction

Go to the other.. 4 Go directly to those with whom we disagree; avoid behind·the·back criticism* (Matt 5 :23-24; 18:15-20).

In the spirit of humility 5 Go in gentleness, patience and humility. Place the problem between us at neither doorstep and own our part in the conflict instead of pointing out the others' (Galatians 6 : 1·5)

Be quick to listen, 6 Listen carefully, summarize and check out what is heard before responding Seek as much to under stand as to be understood (James 1 : 19; Prov. 18: 13)

Be slow to judge, 7 . Suspend judgments, avoid labeling, end name calling, discard threats and act in a non-defensive, non· reactive way (Rom 2 : 1-4; Gal 5 :22-26)

Be willing to negotiate 8 Work through the disagreements constructively (Acts 15; Phil. 2:1·11)

-Identify issues, interests, and needs of both (rather than take positions)

-Generate a variety of options for meeting both parties' needs (rather than defending one's own way)

-Evaluate options by how they meet the needs and satisfy the interests of all sides (not one side's values) .

·Collaborate in working out a joint solution (so both sides gain, both grow and win).

-Cooperate with the emerging agreement (accept the possible, not demand your ideal).

• Reward each other for each step forward, toward agreement (celebrate mutuality)

InLl/e

Be steadfast in love, 9 Be finn in our commitment to seek a mutual solution; be stubborn in holding to our common founda· tion in Christ; be steadfast in love (Col. 3:12-1;) . Be open to mediation, 10. Be open to accept skilled help . Ifwe cannot reach agreement among ourselves, we will use those with gifts and training in mediation in the larger church (phil 4:1 -3) 1htst the community, 11 We will trust the community and ifwe cannot reach agreement or experience reconciliation, we will tum the decision over to others in the congregation or from the broader church (Acts 15)

• In one-to-one or small group disputes, this may mean allowing others to arbitrate . - In congregational, or broader church disputes, this may mean allowing others to arblttate Of' implementing constitutional decision-making processes, insuring that they are done in the spidt these guidelines, and abiding by whatever decision is made , Be the Body of Ctuist 12 BeJjeve in and rely on the solidarity of the body of Christ and its commitment to peace and justice. to the courts of law p Cor 6 : 1-6) directly if you are European-Nprth American; fit through a trusted stat t adWte4by the U. S. Gonielel1T in 1991J. adapt!!d with pemIJs's.loIl &om the Ge'i\ . ci Mennonite '3.tld Mennbtute

Making peace with God's call to love the world

BY STEVE GOOSSEN

WHEN I PICK UP A NEWSPAPER or read the most current news on my web browser, I get the sense that the world is about to explode In the age of instant communication it's hard to comprehend the totality of the events that are shaping our world . Issues like homosexuality, AIDS, the Israeli and Palestinian conflict and the war on terrorism.

With regard to the war on terrorism, since Oct. 7, 2001, I have been discussing , reading and asking questions more seriously. How do I, a Christian, living in America respond to such an event in the world and in my community? What have I been taught from my church? I have felt a continuous tension as some speak for allegiance to our nation while others issue the call of nonviolence.

I have heard people say, "The Bible teaches us to obey our government." I would agree Another told me, "This is your country too." Again, I agree And yet another comment I heard was, "Our country has a right to defend itself" I agree, it does. But the Scriptures also teach you are to obey God rather than man, consider yourself an "alien" and that your "citizenship" is in heaven.

This continuous tension keeps me dealing with the questions that affect my daily life and how I live it. My allegiance is always being challenged .

We at Reedley (Cali£) MB Church

have just finished reading Rick Warren's book, The Purpose Driven Life A phrase Pastor Warren uses caught my attention, ''You must learn to love lost people the way God does " Warren says one of our missions here on earth is to introduce people to God How do I resolve this conflict between allegiance to my country and loving the lost-including those considered our enemies? What does the good news of the gospel mean, if it isn't for everyone?

In his book, Pastor Warren uses many verses to illustrates how to love the lost and that our mission is to exactly do what God did. Such as John 3: 16, where God "so loved the world and gave ." God didn't pick a particular nation or ethic group to love; he loved the world and he gave. God wants us to do the same.

When I read 2 Cor 5:13-15, I paraphrase it to say: "IfI am out of my mind, it is for the sake of God; if I am in my right mind, it is for the world. For Christ's love compels me, because I am convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died . And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again " Pastor Warren states that God has never made a person he didn't love and Christ proved it when he stretched out his arms on the cross and exemplified his love for the world as he died for all.

The apostle Paul further explains in 2 Corinthians that Christ has given us the ministry of reconciliation Just as God gave us Jesus Christ to restore our relationship with him, Christ now gives us this ministry, to be his ambassadors, to reestablish a relationship with God and with others in the world

My journey has taken me to this point, and today my allegiance is not to any nation , not to any heritage, not to any flag or any confession except this one only: It is to the good news that God loved the world, that Jesus Christ died for all. This will be my "lens" on how I will view the world . The challenge now is living in the world with this picture in my mind.

Close to the end of his book, Warren makes this statement, "Hyou want to be like Jesus, you must have a heart for the whole world. You can't be satisfied with just your family and friends coming to Christ. There are over 6 billion people on earth, and Jesus wants all his lost children found Jesus said, 'Only those who throw away their lives for my sake and for the sake of the Good News will ever know what it means to really live!' The Great Commission is your commission, and doing your part is the secret to living a life of Significance."

Steve Goossen, a farmer by vocation, is a member of Reedley (Calif) MB Church.

Pontius' Puddle'

CHUCK'S CORNER

BY CHUCK BULLER U.S. CONFERENCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Miscellaneous thoughts

Updates on /undraising, restructuring and Mission elSA

WHEN MYRA HOLMES INTERVIEWED

me about my one-year refiections about this job and the U.S. Conference, I inadvertently left out the /';lct that I have become a monthly columnist. Trust me , this was not part of the original job description, but is something I volunteered for in an effort to further the communication efforts of our conference.

When I began this task back in February, I just assumed I would always have enough things to write about from my work and journeys that "deadline day" on an 85G-word column wouldn't be an issue. Suffice it to say this has been a great leaming experience. I have a new appreciation for Phil, Marvin and Rose. They have been doing this much longer than I, and keep coming up with material every month. I have found that not every column idea is easily followed with 850 words, or worse yet, is honored with only 850 words . So this being the first issue of 2004, I am sharing the articles that never made it out of my "column idea" file in 2003, either because they would have been too long or too short.

Notable Retirements. It dawned on me recently that in the space of this biennium (2002-2004) our denomination will have witnessed the retirements or pending retirements of incredibly Significant leaders who have shaped the MB church today. People such as Henry Schmidt, Lynford Becker, Roland Reimer, Henry H. Dyck and Loyal Funk. Collectively, these men represent wisdom, experience and perspective that we still need and value. I trust we can find ways to resource their hearts and minds from their places on the sideline Kudos to each of them for their faithfulness and investment in kingdom work. You each deserve an installment of this column dedicated to your efforts.

Why fundraising functions like the ever-ready bunny. Given the shift in our culture towards donor-directed giving, those of us working in denominational ministries understand that we must not

take for granted revenue sources that have "always been there." We constantly need to evaluate our organizations to maximize the use of funds and provide value to the donor, be they a church or individual Maybe you noticed the giving envelope inserted in the Leader. This is obviously new. It is based on the idea that if even 10 percent of our readership placed a $25 check in this envelope and mailed it in monthly, we could do far more of the things Mennonite Brethren love to do-planting churches, developing leaders, ministering to the hurting and proclaiming the Good News that Jesus is Savior and Lord . Team 365. We began a program this year that invites people to support the work of our conference by chOOSing one day out of the year to partner with us in either prayer or financial support Beginning this month, our prayer partners will begin receiving a monthly update for prayer concerns and our financial partners will receive quarterly updates on our financial health and goals There is still plenty of room on Team 365 . Take the inserted envelope in this issue of the Leader and simply write "Team 365" on it with the day that you would like to give or pray.

Restructuring. The U.S Conference is in the midst of an organizational review. We are attempting to evaluate our missions, values and strategy and align them with the resources provided by our churches and donors. You as readers will be receiving a good deal more information on this process follOwing our Board of Church Ministries meeting in March . Pray for your leaders, that they might be practical, wise, biblical and visionary in this process.

What is happening with Mission USA? If I kept a tally of most frequendy asked questions, this question would easily win. Mennonite Brethren tend to love the work of evangelism, church planting, renewal and adoption (through Integrated Ministries.) They are hopeful that we can once again make Mission USA central to our work as a U S. Conference So do I I

had the privilege of chairing Mission USA for the first five years of its history and look folWard to new things God has in store for this ministry. This is in large part an aspect of the restructuring discussion we are currendy processing. In the meantime, thanks to those of you who continue to serve on the Mission USA board and who bless our conference with your ongoing efforts.

And then there is my list of Top 10 Column Tide Ideas. These went into my column file as "tides" which makes the point plainly enough that they don't really need an article to follow. Some are serious and some well , you decide.

1. Why the Atkins diet isn't biblical. Subtide: Sure, I'd like to lose 30 pounds ifl could first find a recovery group for men who grew up on zwieback and homemade jam!

2. If white, middle-aged men have all the "power," why won't someone tell their wives?

3. Since Rick Warren sold three million copies of "The Purpose Driven Church," do you think he might be interested in becoming Mennonite Brethren?

4 Are Mennonite Brethren Anabaptist?

5. Does "blended worship" ever include country western or opera?

6. How often do you have to sing a "contemporary" song until it becomes "traditional?" Hint to worship leaders--"Shine, Jesus, Shine."

7. If a "move" sermon doesn't "move" you, shouldn ' t you call it something else? This question is for the theologically sophisticated.

8. If I grew up with expositional preaching and now some Sundays only get a clause from a verse from a different version of the Bible for each point, am I supposed to look happy?

9 If I skipped "modernity" do I have to enter "post modernity?"

10 If a column is 1,057 words, will the editor make this a "Top Eight List," and which of the tides will she be tempted to take out?

BY PHILIP WIEBE

Throwing the book at cable

Getting connected to a quality book has its rewards

WHEN WE MOVED INTO OUR NEW house recently, our family made the monumental decision to subscribe to cable television. We'd never done that before. Really. I know that may sound strange in our hyper-connected age. But we resisted getting cable for a couple of reasons.

First, when we boUght our first house we just didn't have much time to watch Tv. As a young couple with a variety of work, school and church commitments, we didn't think it made sense to pay for 50 channels we'd rarely watch.

Second, with a child on the way, we were ambivalent about letting the 1V monster into the house. Statistics depicted television as a great time waster in the lives of families It was also being linked to physical inactivity among children, with resulting health and attention-deficit problems.

Since the house we bought back then already had an antenna on the we figured that was good enough. The antenna pulled in four clear stations and two fuzzy stations, though two of the clear stations faded in and out during winter. I saw that as a benefit. The fewer channels available, the less we would be tempted to watch.

So we got blissfully by without cable 1V for years. Settling into our new place, however, I realized we would need to get connected, for the highly philosophical reason that I was way too lazy to climb on the roof to install an antenna. Besides, could you even buy one of those crazy old gizmos anymore? And even if you could, I doubted we'd be allowed to plant one on the roof in our new neighborhood. Those antennas were never the most attractive contraptions in the world.

So we got cable. After all those years of fuzz, we can finally see what we're watching. Since cable is already outre in this age of satellite and digital Tv, you may

be getting the impression that I'm out of the loop when it comes to modem broadcast technology. Of course you're right. But it doesn't bother me. When I hear about this high-definition 1V thing that is working its way into the mainstream, for instance, it doesn't thrill me. Since I already find most stuff on 1V barely watchable, why would I want a clearer picture of it?

However, getting hooked up with cable Tv, some of the old fears resurfaced. Would it be tempting for our family to watch too much, pushing out other meaningful pursuits? Thrns out I didn't have to worry. We stay busy with a variety of activities, and aren't compelled to trade those for the sofa and 1V clicker. The one thing I do appreciate getting on cable that I didn't have before, though, is the Mexican pro soccer league. As a soccer fan I particularly enjoy these games, because I can't understand the commentators. It is quite an improvement over the cliched gushings of English-speaking announcers

Another benefit cable 1V has given me, I've realized, is a renewed enthusiasm for reading books. I have always been an avid reader, but this past summer even my reading fell by the wayside, as we prepared our old house to sell and made arrangements for buying our new house. As the fall season ensued after our move, I finally picked up a couple of books again . For some reason this inspired me to ponder the differences between watching 1V and reading, and why I prefer the latter.

First, I think it's just easier to find a quality book than a worthwhile 1V show or movie. I heard about some new television shows that quickly got canceled this past fall when they only pulled "meager" audiences of six or seven million Seven million! When a book sells one million, it's

a huge smash. Even a hundred thousand is considered great. To be successful, books don't have to make as much money as 1V shows and movies Add to this the large variety of publishers producing a wide range of work, and there is simply more creativity found in the written word.

Second, reading a few pages of a book is a much richer experience than watching a few minutes of a 1V show. I just finished a 600-page novel over the span of a couple of months; reading 10 minutes here, a half-hour there, 15 minutes at other times. One wouldn't watch a basketball game or sitcom like that . A book, though, lends itself well to long term reading and reflection.

Finally, I believe that books are by nature more substantive than visual media. And we need more substance in modem culture. In the church, I wonder if we're losing our grasp of the foundational importance of the Word. Many modem believers seem to be better informed about today's visual media than their own Bible.

"In the beginning was the Word," John wrote, and "the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us" Oohn 1:1, 14). There is danger in getting away from the Word today, just as inJesus' time: "The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it" (v. 5) •

BY MARVIN HEIN

Questions about faith Be life

Ownership of Palestine and the Lo rd's second coming

QIs the land of Palestine (Holy Land) only for the Jews?

(Indi an a)

ASeveral questions followed last month's discussion regarding MCC ministries to Jews as well as Gentiles (Arabs) in the Holy Land. One inquiry has to do with the ownership of the land now occupied both by Jews and Arabs. It is the conviction of many biblical scholars that because of the many promises made to Abraham in the Old Testament, all the land we refer to as the Holy Land belongs to Israel Oews) and Christ will only come when the Jews possess that land.

The contlict in the Middle East hinges largely around this issue. Arabs say they, too, are sons and daughters of Abraham and contend that they should be allowed to live in the land as well as the Jews. Consequendy, Jews and Arabs almost daily kill one another.

Evangelicals take rather vigorous but opposing positions on this issue. Generally those espousing a "dispensational" view of Scripture insist the land belongs only to the Jews. Others, with a variety of views, believe that the church has replaced Israel and that the promises given to Israel in the Old Testament will be fulfilled through the New Testament church.

It is difficult for me to believe that present-day Zionism, as practiced in Israel today, is the seed-ground for a nation through which God will usher in the ultimate consummation of the ages. I admit this is not impossible. But Zionism in no way resembles Christianity. It is a

brutal institution. That is not to say that Palestinians are any less brutal

At this moment Jews are building a wall to separate the two opposing forces. In many places that wall lies deep within Arab-occupied territory. Jews and Arabs generally are not allowed to visit in the opposing territories.

MCC storyteller Ed Nyce, who has spent years in the midst of this contlict, tells this story. Abu Victor, an Arab ChristIan living in Bethlehem, last fall was able to visit Jerusalem for the annual Jewish week of Succah. Thousands, including a few North American Mennonite Brethren, joined in celebrating the exodus from Egypt and remembering life in temporary shelters. One activity of the week was Christians joining some (not all) Jews in a march around the old city of Jerusalem, claiming the city for Jews only.

Abu was puzzled. ''What kind of Christians are these? Are they saying I must leave my home because I'm not Jewish? Are they saying that once Cornelius was baptized, after Peter saw the vision that led him to open his ministry to Gentiles, he should have known he couldn't stay there any longer since he wasn't Jewish?"

I am inclined to accept the words of Jesus in Matthew 22 as well as parallel passages in Mark and Luke as my guide in this issue. We are told that on the greatest commandment, lOving God and neighbor, hang all of the law and the prophets. How God will bring in his ultimate triumph, I am not certain, but in the meantime my prayer is that I can love

Have a question about a Bible passage, doctrine, conference policy, or other spiritual issue? E-1IUlil Marvin at mhetnl@fresno.edu or send your question to "Inquiring Minds, " c/o Marvin Hein, 3036 East Magill Avenue, Fresno, CA 93710.

God and neighbor-and that includes both Jews and Arabs.

QWill Jesus return sooner if Jews are in the Holy Land? (Indiana)

AWe should be looking for Christ's return. I recall that in my youth preachers told us his return would come sooner if the Jews repossessed their land I think we must be careful with "prophetic" texts. I hesitate believing that anything we do intluences God's timing a great deal. With the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and the reverse. The Lord isn't slow about his promise, but he is patient. Yes, we are watching and eamesdy desire the coming of the day of the Lord. I'm not sure that bringing the people of Israel into the land will move God along faster.

It may well be that God is working at a different speed than we would want regarding his return No one knows the time. I wonder if anyone can hurry his time. Recendy a good brother in our congregation lay dying in the hospital. One day his wife asked him: "Are you ready to die?" Her husband answered : "Nol" She was surprised and asked why not. His answer was something to the effect that he wanted to leave the timing of his demise to God. He would not dictate.

I still like the answer one of our MB pastors gave a seminary examining committee when he was a young student. He was asked to give his eschatological views. He answered, "I believe Jesus is coming again. I believe nobody knows when. I believe that you had better be ready." I realize that's not enough for some, but it's good enough for me .•

Anabaptists have a long tradition of pulling together in time of need Whether it's helping disaster victims or pooling resources for mutual aid, working together for the common good is part of our heritage. And it's one of the reasons MMA was founded almost 60 years ago.

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All products may not be available in every state.

BY ROSE BUSCHMAN

God's care during life's emergencies

. -"

His "everlasting arm s" support God's children in times of trouble

SEVERAL YEARS AGO I FOUND

myself on an emergency trip to give support to a friend who was experiencing a serious crisis in her life Because it was winter and because it would mean driving many miles "in the middle of nowhere" by myself and because it was before the days of cell phones, my husband insisted that I fly rather than drive. My first flight, on a small commuter plane, from my hometown to Denver was uneventful.

However, I had second thoughts about continuing my trip when I heard the weather forecast on a TV in the airport. After praying about it I knew I needed to go on, so I boarded the next plane. This second flight, on another small IS-seat turboprop plane, had a flight path over the Rocky Mountains There were only three passengers on that flight. The two pilots seated the three of us in the rear of the plane in order to, as they told us, "balance the load." I don't know what that would do for your sense of security but I sure know it didn't do a whole lot to improve mine!

Our litde plane took off and soon we were in stormy weather. There was a lot of turbulence as we flew over the mountains that kept me praying the entire time. I remember thinking that at any time we would crash

A Bible verse I had memorized many years earlier flashed into my mind "The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms" (Deut. 33:27 KJV). As we bounced around, held in our seats only by our seatbelts, I visualized God's hands underneath our small plane, holding us up As I focused on his hands, my fear subsided to a more manageable level

When we finally landed at our

scheduled stopover one of the pilots announced, "Folks, we're taking a 30minute break here , We've just encountered some very strong headwinds and we need a break before we continue." I had no trouble believing that!

The next hour of flight to my final destination was calm by comparison When we landed I was relieved to be on the ground again, secure in the knowledge that the arms of God had held our litde plane up in the air that afternoon. My friend was at the airport to meet me.

I had to think of that experience and how God provided on that trip, when, on a Saturday this past November, I made an emergency trip to Denver, this time by car Earlier in the day I had gone to our local airport, 15 minutes from my home, to meet my husband who was scheduled to return from a professional meeting in Ohio He wasn't on that flight

"Probably missed his plane because he wasn't watching the clock," I said to myself as I drove home.

The answering machine told a different story "You probably know by now that I wasn ' t on my flight ," my husband's groggy, slow-speaking voice told me "I'm in Denver in the emergency room at " He went on to tell me that he had taken some nasty falls and was now receiving much needed medical attention. When I finally got to talk to him on the telephone we decided that I should drive to Denver to bring him home

Because my grandchildren live there, I've made that trip many times . But this time the drive was very difficult for me , both physically and emotionally: It soon became apparent that my driving was far too "creative" to be safe. The evening darkness and poorly marked

lanes through several construction zones made things worse I finally told the Lord that unless he helped me drive something bad was going to happen Well , God answered my prayer and eventually I arrived safely at my destination-I didn't hit anyone and no one hit me!

Seeing my husband's bruised, swollen and stitched-up face was a shock. He had a fairly good night, but I slept very little Over and over, I struggled with what could have happened

"God still has some things for you to do," I told my husband the next morning. "Your work on earth isn't finished yet."

My lack of sleep worried me since I had to do all th e driving on the six-hour trip home At some point along the interstate in eastern Colorado I realized that the drive was going extremely well. My husband was able to sleep much of the way and was not too uncomfortable. The weather was beautiful and the driving proceeded without much effort on my part. Thankfully, I wasn't the slightest bit sleepy and doing none of the "creative driving" of the night before .

"This is too easy," I thought. Then I looked at my wrist watch and realized it was church time back home. People there were praying for us and that's why the trip back was so uneventful. "We are coming home on the wings of prayer" I said to myself

It is so comforting and good to know that in times of trouble and difficulty we have a heavenly father who "shields us with his wings and shelters us" (Ps 91:4) Furthermore, he "gives power to the tired and worn out and strength to the weak" (Isa 40:29) •

Denominational executive director is a man of many hats

Chuck Buller optimistic about u.s. Conference and its churches

Chuck Buller began serving as the U.S. Conference executive director one year ago this month. As one listens to Buller reflect on his role, on the health of MBs in the U.S. and on the future of the U.S. Conference it is clear that Buller juggles a variety of hats Fortunately, his background provides him with good experience for those many hats.

Buller served as a Mennonite Brethren pastor for 20 years, first in Warterloo, Ont., then at Neighborhood Church in Visalia, Calif. He left the pastorate in 2000 and worked with Mennonite Mutual Aid as Capital Ministry director, an opportunity that gave him experience with fundraising. Buller is a family man, married to Hughien for 20 years and

the father of three children, ages 12 to 19; perhaps that helps him understand the sense of family he finds among the conference.

1iaveler: Perhaps the most obvious hat Buller wears is that of traveler. One of his first goals as executive director was to meet as many U.S Conference people as he could as part of his "90-Day Plan." Ninety days became nine months of travel, and Buller has

become all too familiar with airline food and hotel beds But, he says, it was important "that I didn't work off my own biases and opinions "

Some of his opinions were confirmed, like the diversity he finds ethnically, sociologically and even theologically. He also finds that local MB churches value the larger relationships of denomination "There is a sense of family that is MB," he says, "and I think there is concern that we keep it and find a way to make it healthy again." Buller sees health in the conference's theological soundness, in youth ministry and its implications for the future of denomination, and in education "The big question mark on health has to do with how do we fund this thing into the future," he says.

Some of

learned has surprised him, like the sense of goodwill across the conference. He says the summer of 2000 was a "tough summer" for the u.s. Conference . Divestiture of the General Conference and misunderstandings about Mission USA could have left bitterness. On the contrary, Buller says , "I'm amazed at how people are saying we're really ready for Mission USA to have a dominant role once again in the U S. Conference." Buller says that although Mission USKs role will undoubtedly be different, he is encouraged by the enthusiasm for church planting he has seen in the districts.

Pastor: Much of the travel Buller undertakes falls under another hat he wears-a pastoral hat as he ministers to churches and fills pulpits He admits that it is one of his favorite roles as executive director. "I have gotten my greatest satisfaction out of being in churches and spending time with pastors and leadership teams," he says.

One of the reasons Buller finds interaction with local churches so invigorating is because he believes "the local church, finally, is where the action is." Whereas the latter half of the century was characterized in part by a shift toward denominational church, the current postmodern age is characterized by a shift back to the local church, he says. "The local church has shifted back to the center of the kingdom, " says Buller.

Cheerleader: As he travels among local churches, Buller acts as a cheerleader for the conference "I wear a cheerleader hat," Buller says unabashedly He says that he is "a product of the Mennonite Brethren denomination." Having been educated by MB schools and shaped by the denomination, it is natural that he enjoys "not only celebrating God, but celebrating what he's done in our people "

Fundraiser: Buller finds himself "passing the hat" in the role of fundraiser for the U.S Conference, a job that is made more challenging by the postmodern shift away from denominational church Buller has learned that individuals seem more willing to give to specific projects than to

the infrastructure that supports those projects, and he has been surprised at how embedded this "project-driven stewardship" is in the conference

Buller initiated a plan called "Team 365," which encourages individuals to adopt one day a year for giving and/or prayer It

is an attempt to garner support for the conference infrastructure, which makes the projects possible. Buller says it has gone slower than he expected, but the project is on track, roughly a third of the way toward the

three-year goal. "We're doing pretty well," he says.

Administrator: As an employee of the Board of

"I want us to be a God-

honoring organization

that fulfills his purpose

for us in the new mil-

lennium, " Buller says.

Church Ministries, Buller wears an administrative hat. He functions as a nonvoting conference representative for both MBMS International and for MB Biblical Seminary. Since dissolution of the General Conference, the U.s. Conference has a new sense of ownership with both agencies. Buller says that divestiture has created "a new reality" for the denomination, and he believes the U.S. Conference will emerge as an important agency in this new reality. Buller says he is encouraged that the people he ' s talked to understand the need for a U.S. Conference.

Strategic thinker: A big hat Buller wears is that of strategic thinker. As a leader and catalyst, Buller helps form a vision for the "shape of the denomination in the future "

One vision for the future Buller and BCM are currently working on is the conference restructuring that will be brought before the U.S . Conference convention in July 2004. But Buller notes that his role as strategic thinker will continue regardless of the outcome of that restructuring proposal. "The U.S. Conference will oudive Chuck Buller," he says, and he looks forward to celebrating the health of the conference long after he is no longer executive director

When asked what he hopes for the future of the conference, Buller points to the official mission statement, but recognizes at the same time that mission statements must be flexible, just as the church must be flexible and open. "I want us to be a God-honoring organization that fulfills his purpose for us in the new millennium," Buller says.

"He (God) knows more about that than we do, and I really do think God partners with his people in building the kingdom, and so I want us just to be open to what God has for us "

He points to an analogy by popular author Rick Warren that encourages the church to see the next "wave" form and ride it, rather than making new waves He says that U.S. MBs must get better at seeing what's happening culturally and being flexible enough to be effective without changing core values. And, Buller says, the church must be ready to "paddle out" and catch the next wave sooner rather than later.

Looking back, Buller says he has enjoyed his first year as executive director "immensely." Looking forward, Buller is optimistic about the future of the conference. "I have high hopes," he says -By Myra Ho/mes

SOC youth focus on prayer

Annu a l event part of extensive district program aim ed at teens

High school youth from across the Southern District will focus on prayer as they gather . for the fifth annual Prayer Summit Jan 10-11. Prayer Summit is one part of the Southern District Conference's unique and extensive program designed to minister to youth . Debbie Karber, chair for the SDC Youth Commission, says that at district events like this, "God really gets [kids'] attention ."

This year ' s prayer summit will be held at Roman Nose State Park in Oklahoma The 24-hour event focuses on prayer and intimacy with God. It begins midday on Saturday with worship and sessions

designed to teach prayer principles, which will be facilitated this year by the district's youth minister, Wendell Loewen. A large chunk of Saturday afternoon is spent in solitude Russ Claassen , this year's prayer summit director, says that teens sometimes are reluctant, but usually respond well. "I think God just grabs hold of them and takes them places they didn't know were possible," he says . Sunday morning features a concert of prayer, during which prayer broadens from individual prayer to corporate prayer, from individual needs to global needs.

Prayer Summit began as a vision of Rod Jost, youth pastor at Hillsboro (Kan.)

! MB Church, and Vann Trapp, former youth pastor at Parkview MB Church in Hillsboro. Jost says that as they interacted with teens at events like summer camp, they noticed that many teens seemed to have little experience or training in prayer, but when given an opportunity to pray, "God's spirit would really move ." When the vision for a prayer summit was brought to the district's youth commission, the commission supported the idea

Response to the summit has been , good Naturally, attendance is smaller than at events with a broader focus; it has ranged from about 40 to about 90 over the last few years. But, says Jost , the students who attend come with anticipation and openness to God. And, Karber says, "I don't know how you can miss " She points out that intentional time with God always results in growth.

The prayer summit is only one example of the Southern District's priority on youth ministry. At the SDC 2003 summer convention, delegates were asked to trim the budget in all areas, but declined to cut funds for youth programs Although Loewen cautions against reading too much into that decision, he says, "I think it does give a signal that we support our youth."

The Southern District is one of two districts to employ a district youth minister, the North Carolina District being the other. Loewen serves in a quarter-time ! position, serving as a resource for youth leaders and working with the youth commission on events. Loewen says such a position, however limited by time and budget , is important in the Southern District because "we do a lot of district youth ministry."

In addition to Prayer Summit , the Southern District provides an annual convention and camps for youth, each with unique features. The SDC's Youth Convention , held in the fall of every year, is a huge gathering of MB youth, second only in size

to the national youth event traditionally held at YMCA of the Rockies near Estes Park, Colo., and held every four years. The most recent youth convention was held Nov. 21-23, 2003 at First MB Church in Wichita, Kan., with a record 630 teens and youth leaders in attendance. The Southern District chooses to hold its convention in one of about six district churches large enough to host the event. Attendees are hosted in the homes of church members, which allows church members to both serve and understand young people in new ways, according to Karber, and creates a more intimate environment than in

a generic conference center. Camps are held in the summer for elementary, junior high and high school students . Unlike some districts, which often send youth to interdenominational camps already underway, the Southern District organizes camps designed exclusively to meet the needs of MB youth. Traditionally, senior high camp is held in early June at Silver Cliff Ranch in Buena Vista, Colo., junior high camp is held in early July at New Life

Youth leader selected for ministry training

RUSS CLAASSEN, youth youth they serve, but also says it was invaluable to not grams already in place at his pastor at Com (Okla .) MB among other youth leaders only hear formally from own church and district are Church, was one of a select Claassen serves as secre- these influential people, but good but says, "No matter few youth leaders chosen to tary on the SDC's youth , also talk with them one-on- what the program is , the receive special training at a commission, and serves as one during activities and more important question is, youth ministry summit director for this year's prayer over meals . 'What is the mindset, what is organized by Group Publish - summit. He talked about his Speakers emphasized the reasoning behind it? ing. "I'm confident that my experience with the youth i the importance of mindset Are we helping students to selection was based upon commission and with district over programs when dis- fall more and more in love my involvement on the youth events in his applica- cussing how to minister to with Jesus on a daily, Southern District youth com- tion and is certain that made youth . "It was much more of moment-by-moment basis?'" mission, " Claassen says the difference in his selec- a visionary type of a confer- Claassen says that the Youth Ministry Summit tion ence than a program/cur- larger church body can benwas held Sept 16-18, 2003 Of the training riculum conference ," efit from such individual at Group Publishing head- Claassen says, "It was just i Claassen says . For example , training . "I think it's good quarters in Loveland , Colo amazing to sit and be there they discussed "tipping for our conference to con tinGroup is a leading publisher with this room full of other points" in the lives of youth ually be involved with interof youth ministry resources youth workers listening to and how to tum these criti- denominational settings of Group sent out over 10,000 these icons in youth min- cal times into growth, while training," Claassen says ' )\s invitations to apply for the istry " Key speakers and recognizing that the same we discuss with them and summit, received almost 500 resources at the summit idea will not work for every talk with them we can take applications and chose only included Jim Bums, Doug teen or every church back to our conference just 60 to attend Claassen says Fields, Bryan Belknap and Claassen says he was exactly what's going on out Group looked specifically for Rick Lawrence- all well- personally challenged to do there " - MH youth leaders that have influ - known authors or pioneers more "vision-casting " He ence not only among the in youth ministry. Claassen saw that some of the pro-

Ranch in eastern Oklahoma, and junior camp, for fourth through sixth graders, is held in late June on the Tabor College campus in Hillsboro, Kan. Some 800 young people attend these camps each year.

Part of the benefit of running independent youth events, says Loewen, is geographical convenience. He points out that in some distriCts, churches are so spread out that such centralized events would be a logistical nightmare, while other large youth events are convenient. The Southern District, on the other hand, is comparatively compact in geography, with churches primarily concentrated in Kansas and Oklahoma.

But, Loewen says, convenience is secondary to other benefits. The Southern

District's intentional approach allows the district to keep MB distinctives ''We can do some things that are distinctly ours," he says . ''We hope we can communicate who we are theologically." Karber says it also allows them to teach MB lifestyle distinctives. "We want to see kids that look different than the world," she says.

A sense of community is key to the effectiveness of Southern District youth programs. Such community is critical in an age where youth are "confused, " as Karber says, and searching to belong At Southern District youth events, they find adults who model faith and other young people who have the same values and priorities they have. Loewen says that as youth come to events, like the convention, they "experience that they're part of something big-

I ger " Then as they return year after year, he I says, "they develop some lifelong relationI ships and friendships with youth from other states and cities and churches that go on for a lifetime." Karber points out that the sense of community extends to the youth leaders as well She calls the Southern District youth leaders "a family," I I and says they have a lot to offer the rest of the district.

I Most importantly, Southern District I youth events encourage spiritual growth in i youth "Plain and simple, kids need the Lord ," Karber says. "That's what we preach Our conferences are not just about fluff. They are full of Scripture and full of teaching and trying to help kids learn what I it means to have a personal relationship with God."-By Myra Holmes

Lo- Re4'teW?

If you have a CD com i ng due, talk with us about a charitable gift annuity-you may be able to support the U.S. Conference and i ncrease your cash flow at the same time!

Benefits Include:

• Fixed, guaranteed payments for life

• A portion of the payments tax-free

• Charitable deduction in the year of the gift

• Satisfaction in making a sign ificant gift to support and enhan ce the work of your favorite charity

' Thi s offer is void where prohibited by state law

S. Lincoln, P.O. Box 220 Hillsboro, KS 67063 tel : 1-800-551-1547 fax: 620-947-3266 e-mail : info@mbfoundation com

Conference banner saves life

Congolese businessman spared because of MB banner

WWbenPascal T. Kulungu, director of the Mennonite Peace Center in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, agreed to help make the Mennonite World Conference banner for the Mennonite Brethren conference in his country, he had no idea it would save a life Kulungu shares this story in the article below.theedttors

Mennonite World Conference organiz. ers asked all members from different countries to bring a banner to Bulawayo, Zim· babwe, where the 2003 MWC assembly would take place. The Congolese MB lead· ers had to make a banner as well. Con· golese MB leaders Rev. Ndunda, the chair· person, and Rev. Mukashiyenu, the evangel. ist, asked me to find someone who would help in making the CFEMC banner. I asked Ngon· da Daniel, a 56-year-old small businessman who has drawn materials for leadership and conflict resolution seminars and workshops, to do the proj· ect, and he agreed.

Aug. 6, 2003, around 4 p.m. Mr. Ngonda left his home for my office carrying in his bag the Congolese MB banner and some other peace materi· als for me. 1\venty minutes later he switched taxis at Ban· dala Bisengo for Kintambo magasin where my office is. Before he left, he called me saying he would take a taxi and be at my office in 15 minutes. I waited for him until 6 p.m. but he didn't show up. Finally, I decided to go home.

Next day at noon, he showed up with bandages wound around his arm. When he saw me he exclaimed, ''Your

banner saved me from being killed by gangsters." And he told me this story:

"God is with me," he said. "There were four people in the taxi. Unexpectedly, the taxi driver took another direction instead of going to Kintambo magasin. I was sandwiched between two people who were in the back of the car. They pointed their guns to me, saying 'Do not say any· thing otherwise, we will kill you right away.' They took me out of the city of Kinshasa about 25 kilometers on the road of Matadi. Then they took me out of the car asked me to lie down on the ground. I did so. They took everything I had: my clothes, money 1500FC(3$USA), pens, peace mate· rials and the CEFMC banner.

"One them took a close look at the banner and exclaimed, you a Christian?'

I answered, 'Yes, I am.' He asked me more questions while the others were beating me. One of them hit my right arm; it broke. The third one thought they should kill and bury me. The fourth person who had the banner and peace materials in his hands said, 'Don't kill him. He carries a Christian flag with Jesus' cross. He is from a church. ' "Then I was thrown into the bush and they left. It was 7 p.m. I walked to the main road. Acar stopped and the driver asked me why I was naked. I told them the story. As my arm hurt a lot, they decided to take me to the hospital I was helped at the clinic and my family members joined me at 12 p.m."

This is how Mr. Ngonda saw death coming to him. The banner with Jesus' cross saved him .•

Quest retreats int roduce youth to ministry

, attended a seminar class and interacted with i seminary faculty on a variety of topics. ; "Youth began to piece together their j own stories of hearing God's call on their · lives," says Anne Friesen, Ministry Quest curriculum and logistics coordinator. ')\5 they ; heard the stories of how God has led some · of our current leaders, they recognized their own experiences in them. Hearing others' stories helped to validate their sense of call."

Ministry Quest organizers report that : the young people fonned close friendships as the youth recognized their common interests as leaders. One of the youth wrote, "It's been a couple of weeks since I got back home from the Ministry Quest retreat. .. and I've found that my life has changed a lot because of the retreat. In five days in Fresno, I was able to gain 15 best friends, hear God speak into my life in a very real and tangible sense and have God's call on my life affirmed."

The student continues, "Before the Ministry Quest retreat it's like I had God in a box. I called on him when I needed him, congregationsdo"buU<

Tr1\vo Ministry Quest fall retreats, one of three components in MB Biblical Seminary's "Hear the Call" leadership training program, offered 19 youth ages 16 to 18 years the opportunity to spend five days exploring the possibility that God may be calling them to fulltime vocational ministry.

"Hear the Call" is funded by a $1.6 million grant from the Indianapolis-based Lilly Endowment, Inc., and is directed by John Neufeld ofWmnipeg, Man. · Lilly awarded grants for the purpose of engaging young adults in theological education; Academic DeanJames Pankratz wrote MBBS's 27-page proposal. The second component of "Hear the Call" works with Mennonite Brethren congregations and the third works at networking denominational ministries working with high school students such as Youth Mission International, camps and the colleges.

Ministry Quest, the high school component of the program, is housed on the seminary's Fresno, Cali£, campus and is directed

; and ignored him when I didn't. I was doing things for God, but I wasn't inspired by God to do them. Thanks, Ministry Quest, for · changing all that; for changing my dull and dreary knowledge of God into a vibrant relaf tionship with him. "

by Rick Bartlett Ministry Quest participants · Fall 2003 Ministry Quest retreat particiare nominated by their home congregations i pants came from Buhler (Kan.) MB Church, on the basis of exhibited leadership poten- I Neighborhood Community Church of tial and a curiosity about ministry. : VISalia, Cali£, College Community Church of Ministry Quest has three independent . Clovis, Cali£, and Topeka (Kan.) MB Church stages, the first one being the opening : as well as 12 Canadian MB congregations. retreat followed by a 13-week mentoring : Leaders in these congregations are now relationship focused on spiritual fonnation . i charged with mentoring these youth, and The second stage includes a second retreat that relationship, says Neufeld, is critical. fOCUSing on gifts and leadership style and a 'We only provide the catalyzing experimentoring relationship focused on the prac- . ence," says Neufeld in a recent interview tice of spiritual disciplines. It also includes a : with the MB Herald. ''The bulk of the work short-tenn ministry assignment. The final i is the six months between Ministry Quest stage involves an internship in a church and : events, where the local church takes up the a retreat focused on recognizing building : responsibility of week-in and week-out, lifeleadership capacity. : on-life mentoring. The church calls, and the

The two 2003 fall retreats were opening i church disciples ," says Neufeld. events that introduced the youth to "calling" Youth and congregations interested in as a journey. Youth heard "call" stories told participating in future Ministry Quest by MBBS faculty and students, explored bib- retreats can contact Bartlett at 1-800-251lical "call" stories, took a worship hike in 6227. Additional infonnation is available on Kings Canyon, participated in a cross cultur- the website : www.ministryquest.com. al worship experience at the Buder Avenue -from Ministry Quest press release and MB MB Church Hispanic worship service, Herald

FPU

takes NAIA national vo ll e yb a ll championship

MB college teams particip'ate in post-season tournament play

THE 2003 FRESNO Pacific University Sunbirds volleyball and soccer teams and the Tabor College Bluejay volleyball and football teams participated in post-season play. Of the four teams, the FPU volleyball team went all the way to the top, becoming the 2003 National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics national volleyball champions thanks to a Dec. 6 win over Columbia of Missouri The final game was played on the campus of Point

Lorna Nazarene University in San Diego The team is coached by Dennis Janzen.

The best men's soccer season in FPU history went undefeated all the way to the national finals as the Sunbirds finished first runner-up in the NAIA. The Sunbirds were defeated Nov. 25 in Olathe, Kan., by the University of Rio Grande of Ohio. The team is coached by Jaime Ramirez. FPU's season record was 22-0 and the squad averaged 4.4

Leader interim staff to continue

A NEW PART-TIME, interim staff has been appointed to publish the Leader Following the September decision by the U.S. Conference Board of Church Ministries to proceed with a U.S. Conference hiring freeze, the Board of Communications reappointed Connie Faber as interim editor. Faber has worked for the magazine since 1995, most recently as associate editor.

Nadine Friesen of Hillsboro , Kan :, is continuing as the editorial assistant and Myra Holmes of Littleton, Colo., is

serving as a news writer. Friesen joined the interim staff in May 2003, has almost 26 years of pastoral experience and is the author of two Bible studies. Holmes worked as the Leader's editorial assistant from 1988-89, and is an experienced freelance feature writer and copy editor. Graphic designer Elaine Ewert of Print Source Direct in Hillsboro, Kan ., will continue as the magazine's designer. The interim staff members, who all work parttime, have been asked to serve until July 2004 .-USC

goals per game on the way to Golden State Athletic Conference and NAIA Region II championships .

After a third straight Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference championship title, the Tabor Bluejay volleyball team traveled to Omaha, Neb., to take on Doane College in NAIA regional championship play Nov. 20 Doane defeated Tabor in three games. The team is coached by Amy Ratzlaff. In spite of the football

team's loss in the first round of the National Football Championship Series, for many Bluejay football fans the season was a success. The team ended regular season play 9-1, the best record in school history, and was ranked second in the KCAC. The Bluejays' bid to the championship series ended Nov. 22 in a 21-63 loss to Northwestern Oklahoma State University of Alva, Okla -FPU &TC

MORE NEWS

Plautdletsch Bible released

Canadian Bible SocIety and KIndred Produotiona, Wlllllpeg, Man., are pleased to announce the release of the complete Bible In Low Gennan, or Plautdlet8ch. 1be project Is an expansion and revision of the tra tlon of the New Testament and Psalms done earlIer by J. J. Neufeld. Since 1998 this pr0ject has been under the supervision of the United BIble Societies. KIndred Productions, who published the earlier New Testament, Is the distributor for the Bible. "De BlbeI" can be purchased through KIndred PublIcations. KIndred Productions can be contacted at (phone) 1-8()()..5G7322; (fax) 62()'9473266 and (&maD) CUBtservOklndredproduotIons.com.-KP

Grammy nominee recorded at MB studio

Folks at FamIly ute Network, a Mennonite Brethren agency located In WInnIpeg, Man., will be paying specIal attentIon to the 2004 Grammy awards next month. Rap Singer Fresh I.E.'s album Red Latterz was recorded at the agency and that album Is competing for a Grammy In the rock gospel category at what Is known as the world's moat prestIgious music awards show. "That's Just wild, man--eomeone from here nominated for a Grammyl" was the response of Marshall Zacharias who heads Avante Records now operating as part of FamIly ute Network. Upon hearing the news, Fresh I.E. said, "Imagine that-dolng what God has called me to do and getting nomInated for a GI'IIJno my doing Itl Wow, God Is goodl" The focus of Fresh I.E.-Rob WlJson-.-has been on mInistry, not awards. (The I.E. stands for "In etemlty. ") During the weeks prior to the nominatIon, he toured with FLN's music team In motivational assemblies at schools throughout southam Manitoba. CornIng from a rough background, WIlson tumed hIs life around In 1998 and has founded ute Inc., (Resurrection and ute) to reach Inner city youth through musJe.-R.N

Victim and offender advocates of restorative justice

Restorative Justice Conference Nov. 14-15 sponsored by the Fresno Pacific University Center for Peacemaking and Conflict Studies spoke personally of restorative justice, but from different perspectives. Speaking as a victim was Wilina Derksen, a victim's rights activist from Wmnipeg, Man., while Joe Avila from the Fresno area spoke as an offender turned restorative justice advocate. In addition, a panel of criminal justice officials spoke in support of plans to initiate a restorative justice pilot program in Fresno County, making the county a leader in rev0lutionizing criminal justice in the U.S .

In 1984 Derksen's 13-year-old daughter Candace was abducted and killed; the police never found her killer. Derksen supports restorative justice but is concerned that it is tilted toward offenders. "I'm a soft critic of the practice , not the ideals," she said. Six years ago Derksen founded Victim's Voice, an organization that speaks for victims of serious crimes.

Avila is the drunk driver that in 1992

killed a 17-year-old girl. Thanks to a visit from a prison chaplain, he found forgiveness from sin and freedom from alcoholism in a relationship with Jesus Christ. While in prison he read Scripture, books and literature from the FPU peacemaking center and met regularly with CPACS staff members Avila, released from prison in January 1999, began working in 2000 for Prison Fellowship, an organization that links up with local churches to minister to prisoners. Now executive director of the Central and Northern California/Nevada area, Avila shares restorative justice with inmates. "I want people to realize that restoration does work, that reconciliation does work," he said.

The conference drew 100 participants, one-third coming from outside California -FPU

MCC sends emergency aid to Ugandans as conflict escalates

wnH ONGOING CONRJC7S ESCAI.ATING and more than a million people in Uganda internally displaced, Mennonite Central Committee is preparing a major aid package for two of the most affected areas and launching a campalgn to give food and supplies to rebels who want to leave the fighting.

MCC's initial step for this package will be providing money through the Canadian Foodgrains Bank to purchase food locally for up to 60,000 people in six camps and up to 30,000 people in a second camp Supplies such as seeds and tools may be provided later for the planting season The distribution, worth a total of $190,000 will be canied out by MCC W01kers and the Church of Uganda (Anglican)

MCC is also providing $50,000 for religious leaders through the Diocese of Kitgum to begin working with former rebel fighters who choose to leave the conflict and take advantage

of the government's amnestyprogmm.

For nearly 18 years, rebel groups, most prominently a group known as the Lord's Resistance AnDy, have been wreaking devastation in northern Uganda--kidnappi children to sexually abuse them or train them as soldiers, torturing people by chopping 01flimbs, lips or ears and murdering other innocent people

MCC Uganda oo-representati Dave Klassen says, ''The efrect of this IS-year old rebel inslJr8ency is way be)ood hunger and insecurity. Whole genemtIons have grown up in displaced camps The eJrects of the hotror that many pe0ple have witnessed is seared info their souls and will last a llktime."

The United Nations estimates there are perhaps 1.2 million internally displaced people in Uganda and that 80 percent of those are living in camps -MCC

CHURCH

Baptism/membership

Littleton, Colo. (Belleview Acres)Scott and Alison Compton were welcomed into membership Nov. 2. Weatherford, Okla. (Pine Acres)Trey and Angela Arney, Kaden Gipson and Ben Noble were baptized and received as members. Anita Crawford, Gerald and Michia Crawford, Chad and Dee Edmondson, Dan and Jess Moser, Sherry Ratterree and Brennan and Carrie Schmidt were also welcomed as members Nov. 9

Fresno, Calif. (North Fresno)-Jeff and Linda Bryant, Anna Frost, Don and Nancy Griffith, Peter Ogawa, Lois Toy, Anthony Tapscott and Deb and Joe White were received into membership Nov. 25.

Bakersfield, Calif. (Laurelglen)-Jim and Betty Barks, Bill and Helena Born, Caleb Bussell, Tim Denari, Don and Suzy Friesen, Lindsay Friesen, Alison High, Matthew Kennedy, Carlie Machado, Ted and Sharon Pierce and Patty Scott shared new member testimonies Nov. 16. Nathan and Susan Carlson, Steve and Valorie Lewis, Christine Deeths, Nancy Ewert, Jesika Floyd, Bob Jensen, Mike Munoz, Daniel Wahln and Angela Williams shared their testimonies Nov. 23.

Fresno, Calif. (Bethany)-Angie Friesen, Nicole Persicke, Angela Persicke and Laura Bray were baptized and received as new members Nov. 23 Courtney Orth, Allan Kroeker, Lori Kroeker, David Alvarado, Julie Alvarado and Jon Bray were welcomed as new members upon their confession of faith.

Dinuba, Calif.-Michelle Marquez and Nora Reimche were baptized and received into membership Nov. 30. Vernon and Jeanette Friesen, Heath Hungate and Chris Reimche were also welcomed into membership.

Celebrations

Delft and Mountain Lake, Minn. (Carson and Community Bible)-As they have for many years, the two congregations joined Nov. 9 to celebrate harvest festival Sunday Tim Bergdahl, director of long term ministries with MBMS International, was guest speaker at

the morning worship service and an afternoon session. A noon fellowship meal was shared.

Ministry

Reedley, Calif.-A blended family support group began in November. Participants share experiences and advice and support one another in the challenges of living as blended families.

Edmond, Okla. (Memorial Road)Following several weeks of encouragement to bring friends to advent services, the congregation was asked to submit the following statement during communion on the first Sunday of advent, Nov. 30. "I, (name) commit myself to invite (names) to join our church in celebrating the birth of Christ this advent. In doing so, I affirm God's headship over my life and his desire that my faith be both active and growing."

Teaching/Nurture

Wichita, Kan. (First MB)"Holiday Help-Live @ 5" was a series of seminars held in December to help people get through the holiday season on a healthy note. Seminars, held at 5 p.m. on three Saturdays, included "Holiday Health: Mind, Body and Spirit;" "Holiday Traditions: Breaking and Making" and "Holiday Dysfunction. "

Bakersfield, Calif. (Heritage Bible)-MBMS International along with the Heritage congregation held a two-day seminar Nov. 21-22 designed to help train Christians to share the Gospel with Muslims. Samir and Lewiza Youssef were the resource persons. MB churches in the area were invited to join. Other MB churches have had similar seminars with the Youssefs. The Heritage congregation also hosted "The Case for Mending our conflict" with former atheist and

NEWS FROM OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS ACROSS THE UNITED STATES

best-selling author Lee Strobel as he addressed the evidence surrounding the Christmas story.

Fresno, Calif. (North Fresno)-In response to a Sunday message on purity, families were encouraged to share a book with their children from preschool to high school age. The Princess and the Kiss: A Story of God's Gift of Purity by Jennie Bishop portrays the importance of saving oneself for marriage. Cordell, Okla. (Bible MB)-Fighting for Your Marriage, a prevention and relationship enhancement program, was led by pastors Kevin Creed of Bible MB and Ken Gardner of Corn MB Church. The seminar was held Dec 5-6.

Workers

Minot, N.D. (Bible Fellowship)Maynard and Dorothy Seaman are serving as interim pastoral couple beginning Nov. 23.

Deaths

FRANZ, ELDON VICTOR, Inman, Kan., a member of Zoar MB Church, Inman, was born June 30,1917, to Jacob C. and Nettie Siemens Franz, near Buhler, Kan., and died Nov. 5, 2003, at the age of 86. On Aug. 9, 1938, he was married to Alma Thiessen, who survives. He is also survived by one son, Dale and wife Elli of Overland Park, Kan.; three daughters, Val and husband Stan

Anabaptist doctor$, nurses, chaplains, social worker<s and board/staff leaders of health and human service ministries are gatherilig for: • new ideas that integrate faith and work

persona" professional & spiritual renewal

networking

Peters of Centennial, Colo., RoJean and husband Loren Loucks of Salina, Kan., and Jane and husband Gary Hull of Inman; two sisters, Stella Gilliland of Wichita , Kan., and Alice and husband Jerry Morse of Spokane, Wash., 18 grandchildren and great grandchildren.

FRANTZ, MARTHA SENNER, Hillsboro, Kan , a member Parkview MB Church, Hillsboro, was born March 31, 1913, to David and Anna Schwemmer Senner on the family farm near Tampa, Kan. , and died Nov 19, 2003, at the age of 90. On Aug. 19, 1934, she was married to Eldo Frantz, who predeceased her. She is survived by five daughters, Joyce and husband James Thiessen , Lois and husband Allen Hiebert, all of Hillsboro, Judy Vogt of Newton, Kan., Betty and husband Lloyd Mears, Juanita and husband Ray

Mears all of Albany, Ga ; three sons, Dean and wife Rita of San Angelo, Tex., Jim Frantz of Denver, Colo., and Tom and wife Brenda of Lincoln, Neb ., 13 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.

HARMS, CORNELIUS D., a member of Reedley (Calif.) MB Church, was born Oct. 9, 190B, in Kansas and died Nov. 20, 2003, at the age of 95 He was married to Tena Warkentin who predeceased him. He is survived by three sons, Marvin and wife Darlene, Clarence and wife Carol and Jerry and wife Linda; one daughter, Eileen and husband Harold Hunnicutt; one daughter- in-law, Mary; two brothers, Henry and Ed; brothers-in -law John Block, Fred Friesen, Erwin Warketin and wife June, Ralph Warkentin and wife Margie; sisterin-law Dorothy and husband

Laveen, 13 grandchildren, 26 great grandchildren and seven great great grandchildren.

REGIER. HENRY, Madrid, Neb., a member of New Life Fellowship MB Church, Grant, Neb , was born March 19, 1916, to Jacob and Tina Goertzen Regier near Henderson, Neb , and died Oct. 25, 2003, at the age of 87. Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Kathryn; two daughters, Carolyn and Jerry Harms of Grant and Roxie and husband Dan Hanson of Madrid: two sons, Jack and wife Linda of Bakersfield, Calif., and Randy and wife Sylvia of Madrid, 22 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren.

STEVENS, DON, Dinuba, Calif., was born June 27, 1947, and died Nov. 25, 2003, at the age of 56 He is survived by his wife Judy and one son, Matthew

Interim District Minister Announced

RON BRAUN OF NEWTON, Kan , has been called as the interim district minister of the Southern District Conference, beginning January 1. Braun has been appointed to for a six-month period, and will be working three-quarters time He is available for ministry to congregations and pastors of the district in a similar role as Roland Reimer who retired at the end of December 2003 and as a member of our Faith and Life Commis-

i Janzen, chair of the interim district minister search committee . "We affirm Ron for the ministry he has had in our district over the past 20 years through his work with Mennonite Central Committee

director of MCC Central States . He is an active member in leadership roles at Koerner Heights i MB Church of Newton . He and his wife Dena have two children, both who currently attend

VOTH, ELSIE VIOLA RATZLAFF, Fairview, Okla , a member of Fairview MB Church, was born June 19, 1910, to Adam and Bena Frantz Ratzlaff on the family farm near Orienta, Okla., and died Oct 21, 2003, at the age of 93 In 1938 Elsie married Ernest Voth, who predeceased her She is survived by two daughters, Karen and husband Jerry Suderman of Sugarland, Tex , and Janice and husband Loren Just of Plano, Tex.; one son Ron and wife Pam of Orienta/Oklahoma City; seven grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren

WILLEMS. ANNA T., Inman, Kan., a member of Zoar MB Church, Inman, was born Jan. 20, 1910 to Jacob A. and Anna Toews Willems at Hooker, Okla ., and died Sept 30, 2003, at the age of 93 She is survived by fifteen nieces and nephews

Thbor College . The Brauns will continue to reside in North Newton and Ron will commute to the SOC office in Wichita He will be assisted in his administrative duties by Janice Fast, the SOC administrative assistant.SDC news release

: sion ."

"We believe Ron is uniquely qualified and available for this role in view of his faith commitments and experience in church related ministries," says Gary Braun has served with MCC for 26 years, most recently as executive

C LEA I N G " 0 USE

Employment-Pastor

Greenhaven Neighborhood Church in Sacramento, Calif., is currently seeking a pastor to lead and serve with our congregation of 85 to 120 adults and 30 to 40 children We are a 40-year-old Mennonite Brethren church with a renewed vision to "do what it takes" to transform lives through trusting in Jesus Christ. We seek a pastor who loves Jesus Christ and has a gift and desire to communicate God's Word to the community. Compensation will be based on education and ministry experience Information can be found at www greenhaven org or by calling (916) 422-8253

Em p loy men t-MCC

Mennon ite Central Committee is accepting applications for the posit ion of MCC Central States Executive Director. The director provides vision and oversight for all MCC programs in Central States Familiarity with MCC constituency, strong relational administrative skills and cultural competency required Experience with budgeting, administration and Spanish language skills preferred. Women and people of color are encouraged to apply. Significant travel time within the United States Contact Charmayne Brubaker, (717) 8591151, cdb@mcc org, or your nearest MCC office for the full job description Application review begins February 2004. Position available at that time

2004 CAMPAIGN PROJECTIONS

I NDI A FEB 4 -2 3

$2900

PHIUPPINES FEB 1 8-MAR 8 $ 2 700

PARAGUAY MAR 17-APR 5 $2600

GERMANY APR 14-MAY 3 $2800

NIGERIA APR 2 1-M AY 10 $ 3 600

FIJI (sru OENTS ) MAY 3-JUN 7 $4000

R USSIA MAY 12-31

$2800

UKRAlNE MAY 16-JUN 14 $2800

PERU JUN 2 - 21 $2600

CONGO JUN 9-28 $3600

I NDONESIA A UG 4-23 $2700

ECUADOR AUG 18-SEP 6 $2600

UKRAINE SEP 2-20 $2800

THAILAND SEP 9-27 $2900

MEXlco SEP 29-0cr 18 $240 0

CoLOM BlA Nov 3 - 22 $2600

I NDIA Nov 10-29 $2900

A LL PRI CES ARE IN CANADIAN DOlLARS PLEASE CA LL FOR THE US EQUIVALENT CAMPAIGNS MAY BE ADDED, RESCHE DULED OR CANCELlED BAS ED ON PARTJCl PANT RESPONSE. We are looking for ordinary people who want to help churches overseas bring others into God's family 1iow

CHURCHES ARE ENCOURAGED TO SPONSER • MEMBERS ON OMI MISSIONS.

Di8ciple Making Intemational

Raising Capital to Build Churches

Investor participation through MB Loan Fund is needed to fund loans for churches and other M.B. organizations. Your partnership in the ministry of MB Loan Fund helps to seek the lost, make disciples, and train the leaders of tomorrow. Dollars and cents are transformed into changed lives -

Resolving to choose peace

One evening last month a beautiful snow fell, covering the ground with six inches of white snow, trimming the trees and enhancing the holiday lights. It was a quiet and calm night as most folks in the neighborhood stayed indoors. God's creative handiwork was magnificently displayed . It was picture-perfect. It also didn't last very long. The next morning snowplows cleared the streets, and home and business owners shoveled their walks and driveways. Children took to the streets and hills to go sledding, to make snowmen and to have snowball fights. The quiet of the night before was replaced with the hum of machinery, the scrap of shovels and the shouts of children. The pure white snow was soon splattered with' muddy snow and ice and the children's antics soon messed up the graceful blanket of snow.

The storm and its effect on our community illustrate for me the way I often think about conflict in our churches. I want to worship and serve in a peaceful, picture-perfect church, and then something happens and the beauty of fellowship gets messy, dirty and noisefilled. Conflict, I often think, is trouble and something to avoid. Working with this month's feature section on peacemaking in our churches has changed my attitudes about conflict and has given me some helpful insights to put into practice in 2004 I trust reading the articles will do the same for you. I share two of these insights as my New Year's resolutions.

I resolve to welcome change with an open mind, even when conflict tags along. Conflict, say this month's writers, is most often prompted by change . We often view change in our church as . something negative. Rather, we should think of change as a sign of health and life. At one time I carried our first child in my arms. Now this 14-year-old girl is taller than I am, and she is very proud of that fact. So am I, because if she were a teenager who I could still carry in my arms, something would be wrong. So it seems to follow that if a church wants to stay healthy, it needs to welcome change-and to expect some conflict and discomfort along the way.

I resolve to be a peacemaker in situations of conflict and I will expect the same of others. Larry Dunn tells the story of a student who once said, "I am not a pacifist in any way, shape or form." Dunn replied, "Oh, really? Tell me about the last disagreement you had. Why didn't you beat the person up?" Dunn contends that most

of us are pacifist most of the time. Violence is an option nearly every day-at home, at work and even in our cars. And when faced with conflict, most often we choose a peaceful way of resolving our differences. All of us are on a "peace continuum," says Dunn. "The line between you and me may be at the war in Iraq," Dunn told his Fresno Pacific University students recently, "but I hope we are with one another when it comes to personal violence. That is a place to start. Every time we choose against the option of violence, we choose peace."

In my experience with the Mennonite Brethren church, most of the time most of us choose peace in our personal dealings regardless of where we are on the peace continuum. Take for example one of the things we disagree about-peacemaking itself For as long as I can remember every calendar year the first issue of the Leader is devoted to an aspect of peacemaking. Some church leaders are bothered enough about the annual peace issue that they do not provide the Leader with names from their congregation for the mailing list. Some folks send a letter or e-mall asking that their names be removed from our mailing list because of the repeated emphasis on peacemaking. But you know we've never received a letter bomb and no editor has ever been beaten up as a result of the annual peace issue. And should a violent act be attempted against the magazine or its staff, most of us would be horrified. We choose peace.

At the time this editorial was written, the first newspaper articles describing the capture of former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein were hot off the press. Aahmad Chalabi, Iraqi governing council member and head of the Iraqi National Congress, was one of four new Iraqi leaders who confirmed that the man in custody was in fact Saddam. Of the 30-minute visit, Chalabi said, "Had the roles been reversed, he would have torn us apart and cut us into small pieces after torture This contrast was paramount in my mind-how we treated him and how he would have treated us." If even in the face of war, soldiers and people of power choose peace, we in the church should do no less.

May God bless our efforts to be congregations and a denomination that resolves to choose peace in dealing with one another in times of conflict.-CF

January 2004

FIRST WORDS

••• from the editor

COMING

"Ready to explode

Rethinking conflict

"Our way" vs. limy way"

Tracking a developing church "storm "

b Don Morri s

MENDING OUR CONFLICTS

Pontius' Puddle

What

the Bible says about conflict can transform our thinking

Read more about it

vs. cc

Creating confidence and commitment in the face of conflict

MENDING OUH CONFLICTS

When differences become conflicts

Read more about it

Known by our fruit

MENDING OUR CONFLICTS

• Thomas

Level One

LevellWo

Level Four

Level Five

Commitments for Christians in times of disagreement Agreeing" disagreeing in love

In Thought

InAction

InLl/e

Making peace with God's call to love the world

CHUCK'S CORNER

Miscellaneous thoughts

Updates on /undraising, restructuring and Mission elSA

Throwing the book at cable

Getting connected to a quality book has its rewards

Questions about faith Be life

Ownership of Palestine and the Lo rd's second coming

God's care during life's emergencies

His "everlasting arm s" support God's children in times of trouble

Denominational executive director is a man of many hats

Chuck Buller optimistic about u.s. Conference and its churches

SOC youth focus on prayer

Youth leader selected for ministry training

Lo- Re4'teW?

Conference banner saves life

Congolese businessman spared because of MB banner

Quest retreats int roduce youth to ministry

FPU

MB college teams particip'ate in post-season tournament play

Leader interim staff to continue

MORE NEWS

Plautdletsch Bible released

Grammy nominee recorded at MB studio

Victim and offender advocates of restorative justice

MCC sends emergency aid to Ugandans as conflict escalates

CHURCH

Baptism/membership

Celebrations

Ministry

Teaching/Nurture

NEWS FROM OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS ACROSS THE UNITED STATES

Workers

Deaths

Interim District Minister Announced

C LEA I N G " 0 USE

Employment-Pastor

Em p loy men t-MCC

Raising Capital to Build Churches

Resolving to choose peace